By: Lucien

Luzella’s halberd came down hard slicing the oak log in half. Each training log was poorly painted to represent something of a human or elvish soldier. The Kazdruk’s biceps curled as she lifted the great axe and struck again and again with crushing force. The final swing broke through the log and smashed the steel brace holding them in place. Swiftly, the blade chopped the cold steel in half. The entire section collapsed and fell to either side with a loud clang. Luzella smirked, slightly amused by her own strength but equally frustrated that the brace didn’t hold. Some might say, training with the oak logs was overkill. The wood’s weight and density was at least five times stronger than any armor or weight of even the largest human and elvish soldiers of this world. With a huf, Luzella dropped the halberd’s blade end into the ground, letting it sink into the coarse dirt of the training ring. She ran her fingers through her long black hair and took a deep breath readying to strike again.

“It’s a shame your bloodline doesn’t dabble with our arts Luzella. You wouldn’t need to carry that barbaric weapon around, you could kill with mere thought,” Aeltha spat, swaying her hips as she revealed herself from the deep shadows of the training chamber.

Blowing a group of loose hair strands out of her face, Luzella nonchalantly looked back over her shoulder. With a smirk of confidence she continued.

“It’s our steel, muscle and blood that allows your cowardly caste to practice in safety—too busy swirling around your pixie dusts and magics.”

Luzella returned while gripping her halberd’s shaft again. Raising the blade high, she moved to chop another log. As she brought her axe down with force, her arms suddenly froze as did her halberd. Locked in midair and flexing as much she could, Luzella couldn’t make the blade move in the slightest. In frustration she growled between her clenched fangs and glared at Aeltha as the sorceress walked up beside her twirling her glowing fingertip.

“Strength will never outmatch knowledge,” Aeltha smiled and released the spell causing Luzella to awkwardly drop the heavy halberd and strike into the side of the log, chipping the wood. Luzella looked back at Aeltha with a smirk.

“Perhaps but have you ever looked into the eyes of your adversary? Gazed deep, as you slowly strangle the life out of them?” Luzella asked with a cruel smile on her face. “It’s a carnal sensation. A feeling that no mead, wine, nor alterd state can bring you to. Almost as good as sex. You should try it sometime, you may enjoy it,” Luzella smiled.

Aeltha returned a flat look of ire. Shaking her head side to side.

“I’ll assume you know why i’m here?” Aeltha inquired.

Luzella shifted her eyes away while choosing her next words carefully. She knew Aeltha wanted whatever Kamri and Jelthra had stollen. She spun to face Aeltha.

“You are here for what Kamri and Jelthra took I presume.”

“Impressive, you’re smarter than you look Luzella,” Aeltha smirked.

Luzella looked on coldly, finding no humor or amusement in the cheap jab.

“Well, did you retrieve it, or not?” Aeltha pried.

The bridge of Luzella’s nose crinkled slightly in frustration. She never did find out exactly what they took.

“I will own up to my failure high sorceress. The only thing of note was Jelthra’s key. Other than that, the two had nothing on them. No stolen goods, stones, magical artifacts, parchments, scrolls, or books. Jelthra nearly died in the interrogation process and Kamri lied about looking for weapon enchantments. Alas, nothing was found. They must have hid whatever they took before we got to them.”

Aeltha remained quiet for a moment and ran her hand up Luzella’s neck before griping a large handful of the purebred’s lush raven hair and pulling it back. Luzella knew better than to fight back, so she stood at a cold, crisp attention.

“I’m not here for excuses Luzella,” Aeltha whispered while tugging back on Luzella’s hair harder now. Luzella flashed her teeth in a playful manner finding pleasure in the punishing tug. “Luzella, I wish to introduce you to someone of importance. Someone of true caliber and success. Someone capable of following orders.”

Out of the deep shadows, Lillium approached with a sensual sway in her step.

“This is Lillium.”

The seductive succubus eyed Luzella with a cold and calculating gaze. She stood tall, firmly and without hesitation. Luzella rose her eyebrow and rolled her fingers across her halberd’s shaft. She found the succubus intriguing and noticed that the dangerous woman carried a powerful and commanding presence. Whispers and tales had spread through the spire. Luzella herself had heard the words of this legendary baroness of Volgras. Standing tall, Luzella nodded her head slightly. She took a step to her side as if flanking the succubus and inspecting her body. Lillium mirrored Luzella’s movements, denying the purebred any tactical advantage. She returned a crimson gaze and looked the warrior up and down. The two spun around each other like northern wolves before finally completing a full circle. Luzella cracked a sly smile, breaking the heavy tension in the room. In an insulting show of nerve and arrogance, the Kazdruk tossed her halberd aside into the dirt.

“So, the baroness of Volgras finally blesses me with her presence. The widow maker. The bringer of blood and harbinger of slaughter.” Luzella spoke while walking backward into the open training area. She moved back with both arms outstretched and open, as if taunting the succubus.

Lillium smirked while following Luzella, her gaze burning into the purebred. Luzella peered back ready to strike. Lillium swiftly walked forward while outstretching her black wings wide. Unfastening her scabbard belt, she tossed her black longsword off to the side as well.

“I sense fear in you Luzella. It radiates off you like a scolded pup,” Lillium sneered, poking and prodding Luzella for a response.

 

Luzella laughed at the succubi’s words and reached out to touch Lillium’s raven hair. Running her large hand through her perfect black tresses, Luzella tested her limits. Lillium did not flinch and continued to read this brash Kazdruk. She wanted to know this purebred’s limits, especially her combative limits. Knowledge was power and Lillium wanted it. Deep inside she knew Luzella wanted the same.

With her interest’s piqued, Aeltha watched on from the side as the two champions became acquainted with one another.

“ I will show you fear,” Luzella coldly responded.

“Your breed is a waste of time and resources,” Lillium declared.

Luzella lashed out at the comment, back handing the succubus hard across her pale face. A small trickle of blood ran down Lillium’s lip. Unphased, she smiled before lapping up the line of crimson.

“Your unfiltered aggression is unwise purebred. Your intentions are self-evident. You present your weakness for all to see,” Lillium spoke sternly, twisting into the Kazdruk tempting her to strike again.

Luzella’s brows tightened at her words but she held back from unleashing an open attack.

“You know nothing of my blood, my kin or myself,” Luzella spat before turning her back on the demon in an act of impudence. “I shall not waste anymore time with you baroness.”

“Surely you would not perform such a cowardly act and waste a chance to spar,” Lillium returned with a sly grin.

Luzella stopped in her tracks and spun back around to face the succubus.

“Are you challenging me?” Luzella arrogantly inquired with an obnoxious laugh. “What makes you think you even deserve such a skirmish?”

Lillium stepped closer, promiscuously swaying her form.

“Because, you’re bound by honor.”

Lillium moved in close not waiting for a response and struck. Luzella parried the strike and quickly countered with her elbow. Lillium dodged the counter-strike and thrusted forward, slashing outward with her talons. Luzella back stepped and blocked the violent slash. The two disengaged and started to circle one another. Lillium smiled at the large Kazdruk, letting her fangs catch the nearby torch light.

“You fight like a rat Lillium! The tall tales and wild anecdotes of your greatness have surfaced as nothing more than falsehoods,” Luzella spat while launching forward.

The powerful Kazdruk landed a punch to Lillium’s stomach. With haste, Luzella grappled Lillium’s head with both hands, lifted her off the ground and began to pry her neck sideways pushing her neck to its limit. The Kazdruk’s muscles bulged as she attempted to twist the succubi’s head off. Lillium opened her wings in a tempest like fury. Her wing’s talons slashed across both of Luzella’s arms causing her to break her grip. With a single flap of her wings, Lillium leapt upward with force, driving her knee hard into Luzella’s chin. Luzella stumbled backward as the strike nearly knocked her out. Dazed, Luzella shook her head trying to clear her now blurred vision. As she came around, she lost visual of Lillium. Enraged, the large Kazdruk spun around looking for the succubus only to be granted with shadows and stone. From the deep crevasses of the spire, Lillium curled her lip upward. She was getting closer to unlocking Luzella’s true fighting spirit. She wanted to test Luzella at her full potential.

“Watch, as the great warrior Luzella wanders aimlessly like a lost child,” Lillium taunted from the dark, only her red eyes glowing in the sooty void.

“Show yourself!” Luzella shouted, her blood now boiling. Luzella’s eyes could handle nocturnal settings but she saw nothing, which further frustrated her greatly. Other than Aeltha, the room was empty.

 Lillium dropped down from above, striking Luzella hard in the face. In a roar of anger, Luzella struck outward at Lillium agian and agian. Each fist striking the succubus. Lillium did her best to block the oncoming fury, a few punches broke through and knocked her off balance. Luzella pushed onward slowly, each strike now becoming harder than the previous. The Kazdruk unleashed her full onslaught.

“I will show you a true Kazdruk warrior!” Luzella bellowed.

Lillium relished in the warrior’s assault. She could sense her strength, aggression and growing bloodlust. The Kazdruk finally knocked the succubus against the outer wall before striking her hard and bringing her down to one knee. Grasping one of the succubi’s wings, Luzella placed her hoof across Lillium’s back and tore the wing upward. Lillium clenched her teeth and cut off her own moan of debauched pleasure as Luzella pulled harder, now tearing sinew and muscle. Lillium’s wing began to painfully dislocate from her back as the skin started to separate with a thin line of blood, starting to bring with it true pain.

“Abomination! You will regret this challenge. You carry these wings with disgrace!” Luzella spat with scourge while tugging upward harder.

Lillium rolled to her back, further injuring her wing. Before Luzella could react, she kicked the warrior backward giving Lillium enough time to get to her feet. Luzella was already enclosing again. The succubus landed a hard strike across Luzella’s face and followed up with an uppercut, staggering the tall amazonian. Without a shred of remorse, the succubus moved onward continuing her offensive assault. Landing another punch followed with a vicious hook to Luzella’s ribs, forcing Luzella to back peddle and try to regain herself.   

Lillium followed closely with forceful steps. Her wing now hung limply and injured. Reaching back, she pulled on it while rolling her shoulder blade. With a pop, the joint locked back into place, causing Lillium to gasp in pleasure. Luzella rushed Lillium, tossing a new volley of strikes. The punches connected and on the final strike, Luzella lept into the succubus with her knee. Lillium purposely dropped her defense and retreated slightly. She had what she needed. She gave Luzella the false belief that she was simply overpowering her. Luzella took the opening, grabbed the succubus by her waist and tackled her to the ground. Pinned to the floor now, Lillium looked up with a sensual gaze. Intrigued by the Kazdruk, she let a moan pass her lips. Luzella growled through her clenched teeth in response knowing she had won the small skirmish. Lillium reached up, letting her talons glide through Luzella’s long black mane, pulling her lips to her own as the two shared a bloody kiss.

“Impressive Luzella, I admit defeat. You have bested me.”

Luzella held the succubus in place for a moment as her own rage began to settle. She enjoyed the position she held over Lillium and allowed herself a moment to bask in her own pride. Releasing the woman, Luzella stood.

“Stay out of my way succubus. Your inferior ways would serve better beneath helots.”

Luzella turned and walked out of the circle. Eyeing Aeltha with heated ire she slowly moved past her.

“Provide me with a greater challenge next time, sorceress. I will return what Kamri and Jelthra stole from you.”

“I will be waiting Luzella,” Aeltha simply responded with a flat expression.

Lillium watched on with a cruel grin. She rose to her feet knowing Luzella could be dealt with if the situation ever arises.

 

>><<          

 

Kamri grimaced as she wrapped her ribs with bandages. Taking a deep painful breath she stood up. Limping around her candle light chambers she fixed herself a mix of herbal tea leaves and Kazdruk whiskey. With an uncomfortable sigh, Kamri reclined back in the room’s cot. Relaxing and unwinding, Kamri did her best to rest her wounds. Taking a swig of her drink, she closed her eyes. Deep in thought, she attempted to devise a rescue mission for Jelthra. Her mind filled with ideas as she tried to clamp down on one that would effectively work. Kamri jumped out of her own thoughts at the sound of knocking from the oak door. In grimacing pain, Kamri pulled herself up. Limping to the entrance, she pulled a dagger and cracked the door open enough to peek through. She was met with Brazeek’s face.

“Oh,  good evening Brazeek, please come in,” Kamri spoke pleasantly surprised but still keeping her dagger gripped tight.

“Eveeening Kaaaamri,” Brazeek spoke softly craddeling some healing potions as he entered. “I thooought you could use some of theeese,” Brazeek spoke while smiling his crooked smile. Kamri smirked at the offer and took the small vials.

“Luzella put you up to this? This poison or something?” Kamri laughed while sniffing them. Brazeek frowned and shook his head.

“ I hold nooo allegiance to her,” He scoffed.

Kamri twisted her lips before letting out a sarcastic single laugh.

“But you’re from the same bloodline no?”

“We are. Different litter, but the saaame line unfortunately, yess—but I would nooot lament if she were to suddenly perish,” Brazeek spoke with a slice of hostility. “She’s been a thorn in my side for as long as I can remember.”

Kamri smiled at Brazeek’s revelation. She thought for a few moments and pulled the corks off the top of the vials. She wondered if she could truly trust him. She did hold a position within his talon after all and fought alongside him without incident but she did not forget his original cruel intentions. She looked up at him knowing he could be just as malicious as Luzella at times.

“Brazeek, please sit down, you don’t have to stand you know.”

Brazeek smiled and awkwardly sat down on the floor.

“Yoour hospitality is greaatly welcomed Kamri.”

Kamri thought deeply for what seemed like an eternity. Her ribs ached, she was sure at least two of them were broken, maybe three. Kamri couldn’t afford to be limping around if she was going to take down Luzella once and for all. She had to be at her best at all times. She looked at Brazeek in wonder. What was he up to?     

Only one way to find out. Kamri thought to herself before sighing. She looked down and drank the vials. With a twisted face of disgust she looked over at Brazeek.

“Ugh, what was in this anyway?”

“I’d rather not know Kamri, sooo I neveeer ask the healer caste,” He replied with a smile.

Kamri felt a cold tingling along her chest and ribs. Kamri didn’t show it, but she was greatly relieved that they were in fact, healing potions as Brazeek claimed.

“Fair enough.”

“You really knocked Wulfshn around ooout there,” Brazeek chuckled. “I respect that in a waaarrior like yourself.”  

Kamri grinned.

“Ha, I suppose I did. I’m sure Wulfshn and Luzella for that matter, were not too happy,” Kamri replied with a smirk. Brazeek returned a big hearty laugh. Kamri was getting the impression that Brazeek did not care for the two malevolent sisters. How much did he despise of them she wondered, enough to help her rid of Luzella? Kamri rolled her tongue along the side of her mouth in thought.

“Why did you bring me these healing potions?”

“You fought well today and I take caaare of my own! I want my talon to be the strooongest and most capable under this spire’s banner. You’ve earned my respeeect more than once nooow, ” Brazeek spoke before bowing his head down.

Kamri smiled at the thought. Brazeek was no softy but he carried the same amount of honor as any Kazdruk warrior. She knew Brazeek’s talon was headed towards greatness. Only one other talon stood in the way, Luzella’s. Luzella’s talon was renowned throughout the spire as being one of the most successful and vicious. Their number of kills on the battlefield was impressive and their provinces conquered overshadowed all the other talons. Luzella’s legion was not perfect. What wasn’t talked about was its reputation of losing a lot of soldiers, engaging prematurely and not following higher orders. Kamri thought for a moment.

“…Listen Brazeek, can I ask you a favor?”

Brazeek’s thick eyebrows lifted.

“Perhaaaps.”

“Well, I’ll jump right to it then…Jelthra is locked up in Luzella’s chamber, could you break her out somehow?”

Brazeek paused for a moment before letting out a long heavy chuckle.

“Jelthra? Ha! She’s already in debt with meee. That witch!”

“She’s a good friend of mine and I need her,” Kamri stated.

“What could you possibly need that human foooor?” Brazeek laughed not taking Kamri seriously.

“How would you like to be the top talon leader in the spire? I need her. Together we’re going to end Luzella once and for all.”

Brazeek stopped laughing. Realizing that Kamri was serious, he rose his thick eyebrow again.

“ohh..I’m listening.”     

 

>><<

 

Coldness. An empty and nebulous coldness ran through Avelyn’s veins. Slowly she dragged her own nails across the cell wall. She enjoyed the abrasive feeling of the granite along her fingertips. Periodic washes of molten resentment overcame her coldness. A faint twisted smile came over the elf as she sat deep in thought. Jelthra looked on from the other side, her orange eyes squinted attempting to read the northern elf. Luzella slammed open her chamber’s door. Walking in with heavy steps, she tossed her equipment on the ground, most likely for Avelyn to clean later. Jelthra jumped at the door slamming shut. Avelyn didn’t move, her twisted smile only grew larger as Luzella’s hooves got closer. Jelthra looked up as Luzella pulled open the heavy cell door. Lost in the Kazdruk’s shadow, Jelthra glared at Luzella gripping the imprinting crystal tightly in her hand and keeping it hidden.

“It would appear that your friend Kamri has become quite the competent fighter, twisted the rules and won her freedom by besting my sister,” Luzella growled in aggravation.

Jelthra let a small smile slip, knowing that Kamri must have pulled some-sort of stunt and gained her freedom.            

“Unfortunately for you, she left you here… with me,” Luzella laughed and pulled Jelthra to her feet by her hair.

Jelthra reached up while kicking wildly. Avelyn snapped out of her venomous and destructive state. She looked around blankly for a moment. She had lost time and place, wondering what had just happened. The commotion going on in the cell quickly pushed all the pieces back into place. She looked up in worry as Luzella was pulling Jelthra out of the cell. Avelyn could see the lust in Luzella’s eyes. It was a sight Avelyn had become quite accustomed to. It was a predatory gaze, a gaze of dominance and raw power.

Avelyn looked on nervously. Frozen in a mix of fear and awe. A new conflict bounced around inside her head. The good in her pushed on, wanting to help the human. She rose to her feet and took one step forward. The elf froze in place as an unfamiliar malevolent sensation overcame Avelyn, canceling any good in her. Her green eyes tightened as an eruption of lustful avarice flooded her veins. The sight of Luzella overpowering Jelthra confused her now. A slight gasp left her soft mouth as Luzella pushed the human into the bed. Avelyn now found her own hand now rubbing herself. A loud knocking snapped Avelyn out of her crazed desires. Disgusted in herself, she backed away. The knocking became louder—obnoxiously louder, before switching to a soft pounding on the chamber doors. Luzella held Jelthra by the neck with one hand, pushing her deep down into the bed. In frustration she finally looked up at the knocking coming from her door.

“Who is it!” Luzella asked in annoyance, while letting Jelthra up before shoving her back into the cell.

“It’s Brazeek! Opeeeen up!”

Luzella rushed to the door ready to rip his head off.

“This better be important!” Luzella spat and pulled open the door, almost taking it off its steel hinges. “What the hell do you want! Speak, you worthless bag of meat.”

Brazeek stood there with a giant shit-eating grin across face and took a step in. Looking around Luzella’s chambers he smirked.

“I’m going to give you half a second to explain yourself Brazeek!” Luzella’s eyes now glowing softly. The anger searing deep inside her was now becoming obvious.     

 “I have ooorders from Yuldasha,” Brazeek simply spoke. Not at all concerned of his fellow Kazdruk’s temper. He made himself at home, further twisting the thorn he was being in Luzella’s side. He looked around and picked up various items, purposely driving Luzella up the wall. He caught Jelthra out of the corner of his remaining good eye. Luzella grabbed his hand as he picked up Geem’s dager. Forcing the burte to drop the personal belonging.

“Orders? What orders? Wait, why would she give you the orders?” Luzella asked now insulted.

Brazeek looked at Luzella and laughed.

“Whhhy is not your concern! My orders aaaare to take Jelthra to Yuldasha personally,” Brazeek spoke standing up straight now with a sense of pride and purpose.

Luzella squinted at Brazeek. Doubtfully, she curled her lip.

“Oh really? And what does Yuldasha need with her?”

“I do nooot question the orders of our great Yuldasha and neither should yooou,” Brazeek replied. “ You wouldn’t wish to upset her would you?” Brazeek paused for a moment. “I suppoooose you could ask her herself if you wish, I will wait.”

Luzella snarled at the thought. Nothing ended well when one questioned the great Yuldasha. With a deep breath, Luzella turned and opened the cell. She was extremely skeptical and worried that Yuldasha had not contacted her directly. Perhaps Aeltha had told Yuldasha of her recent failure and wished to interrogate Jelthra herself. Brazeek winked at Jelthra from behind Luzella’s back.

“Jelthra, on your feeeet, let’s go.”

Jelthra walked out the cell. With the stone tight in hand, she flashed Luzella a big fake smile while her and Brazeek left. Luzella tightened her fist as the two left. She knew something clandestine was in the works but she was in no position to find out. Pent up, Luzella turned to Avelyn and grinned. The northern elf took a step back quivering at her hungry disposition. Luzella slowly moved into the cell and Avelyn backed up slowly into the cold wall. Now with nowhere else to go, she prepared for the worst. Luzella towered over the elf before softly running her hand through her toy’s blonde hair. Avelyn flinched and tried to pull away. Luzella trusted her hand around Avelyn’s neck and pinned her against the stone wall.

“Please, no… not again,” Avelyn replied.

Luzella smiled at the pleading, it sent glorious rays of lust up her spin.   

“You know what I enjoy most about you Avelyn?” Luzella asked, now running her other hand across the elf’s firm stomach. “You still believe you have control and a choice of consent. You think you have strength to somehow make a difference in your future. If you haven’t learned by now, your willingness to openly serve me is inconsequential. I take by force and there is nothing you will ever be able to do about it.”

Avelyn looked away with a shiver. She would not give up and give into this monster’s ways. Not easily anyway. Luzella rubbed herself into the elf. Avelyn gritted her teeth and tried to push Luzella back. The effort was symbolic as Luzella did not budge an inch.

“I will not bow to you. Ever. I will always have a choice!” Avelyn yelled, this time wriggling to get free. Luzella smiled at the sudden tiny and furious rebellion. In an unlikely turn, Luzella let Avelyn free, dropping her to the floor.

Avelyn held her neck and looked upward at Luzella who now held an even more wicked look upon her face.

“You want a choice? Fine, have it your way elf,” Luzella simply spoke.

Avelyn looked at her blankly, not expecting her sudden mood swing. Luzella left for a moment and came back with her chain leash.

“We’re going to take a small trip Avelyn. If choices are what you want, then choices you will receive.”

Avelyn looked up as Luzella attached the leash confused. Before Avelyn could say another word, she was being dragged out of the cell.

 

>><<

 

Kamri tip toed through the spire’s great library while keeping alert. Although Luzella was a warrior, it wasn’t uncommon to find her reading. Especially books on combat and older Kazdruk tactics. Because of this, Kamri was cautious while scanning across various books. Luzella was the last individual she wanted to bump into. She found it difficult to browse and keep a close eye on whoever happened to stroll behind her. Quickly, Kamri shifted through the marked areas until she found a giant section on realms and planes.

The Kazdruk empire set out to various worlds and conquered what they could, this world being a work in the progress. Kazdruk scholars and historian castes recorded the eons of travel. Kamri started thumbing through the less important world books. She found these worlds uneventful, filled with primitive races, others filled with only small feral animals or endless vegetation. Each realm contained its own unique identification runes that could be strung into spells that activated portals. Hundreds of world maps were simply rock and nothing of note. Regardless, Kamri sketched copies of the matching runes to these barren worlds. The thought of sending Luzella to a world of only rock or desert felt appropriate. It would surely drive her mad and lead to an eventual slow death. Kamri sighed and flipped through more books, finding nothing of interest.

“Well, I guess these barren lands will have to suffice.”

As Kamri returned the last book, a strange book caught her eye. The cover was a deep purple, a departure of the typical Kazdruk crimson and tan books. The cover was textured in strange angles and even stranger runes. Kamri picked up the book. It was filled with black pages and what appeared to be white ink. Giving the tome, an eerie inverted look. Even its weight was different and the touch sent a subtle buzzing sensation into her hands. She flipped the pages open and read what she could. The language was Kazdruk but it appeared distorted and hectic, as if the author had gone mad in the middle of working on it. The book was broken up into chapters of dangerous unstable realms. Pocket dimensions and Shattered Worlds they called them. The very fabric of each realm seemed to be crumbling apart and unstable. Some of the entries held sketches of these worlds. Nightmarish landscapes and visions that truly bent the mind.

Kamri turned to one realm that she found very interesting. The base of the realm was a nightmare. An organic hive like world that was slick and grotesque. It looked like a caved-in jungle of mixed organs and sinew. Kamri smiled at a very important underlined and frighting note. The world became inhabited with whatever the caster was thinking at the time of casting the portal. Something about an unusual side effect of Kazdruk magic interfering with the caster and the realm’s unstable ley lines. It was further explained in detail how the caster must be advanced and well versed in his or her skills. Kamri brushed past those parts and read on. Your own thoughts became actual flesh and blood life, living and breathing. Even the smallest or slightest mistake could end up in disaster. If skilled enough, truly powerful. A lost love perhaps, or your worst nightmare.

Kamri continued to read and her eyes opened wide. In bold messy writing it was noted that the realm would never let you leave unless the realm was replaced with another living being first. In essences, a trade was required.  A horrible world Kamri thought to herself. She couldn’t help but wonder how the Kazdruk explorers escaped. The fact that this book existed proved that one made it back at the expense of another’s life… left there alone to rot away in their own insanity. She read more. Periodically looking over her shoulder. This is perfect. Kamri thought. She jotted down some important notes and copied the rune perfectly. Kamri returned the book to its spot, swept her cloak on and snuck out of the grand library quickly. This new found realm was exactly what they needed and she had to tell Jelthra. Kamri fumbled her lower lip, hoping Brazeek succeeded in freeing Jelthra from Luzella’s chambers. Everything was falling into place.

 

     >><<

 

Avelyn was shoved into the entrance of an unfamiliar prison level as Luzella followed close behind. The two passed broken and weak prisoners. Faces filled with despair and ruin watched as they walked by. Aveyln did her best not to look. Around a steep bend, the two marched on. The hallway split in two and Luzella shoved Avelyn to the left before heading down a set of short stairs. A new scent filled Avelyn’s nostrils. It reminded her of the elvish stables back home. Avelyn’s nose twitched from the thick animal like aroma that was mixed with a choking smoke. The two stopped at a large door. Luzella looked down at Avelyn with a smile and unlatched the entrance. Swinging it open, they walked into a hall filled with a handful of small holding cells set between walls of flickering torches. Each one held a petty sprinkling of elves and humans. Avelyn looked on in a mix of worry and wonder. She didn’t understand why this cell block was separated from the rest. Perhaps an overflow area of prisoners that were not yet processed she thought. Avelyn took a few more steps and then realized what this area was. Across from the prisoners were large cages filled with an array of Kazdruk working creatures. The area was organized into two sections. A section for Keeat hounds was to the far left and dragons off to the right.             

Two guards haphazardly rushed to their hooves and saluted Luzella as she entered. Both were surprised to find the talon leader in this part of the spire at this hour. One of the guards attempted to shove their small game of colored stones out of view to hide the fact that the two were gambling while on duty.

“L-L-Luzella, It is an honor. How can we be of service?” The short guard spoke trembling.

Luzella pushed the guard out of the way while looking around.

“Where is Master Trainer Veluri?”

The two guards looked at one another and then pointed to the dragons.

“She’s tending to the dragons Luzella.”

Luzella smiled and walked towards the dragon area. The guards looked at her blankly as she walked away. The two then looked at each other with slight smiles, amazed that they hadn’t been lambasted or worse for playing games. Avelyn looked around at the various prisoners with a frown, she didn’t understand why Luzella had dragged her down here. Luzella soon came to the side of the dragon hold and leaned over to obtain a visual of the trainer Veluri. Veluri was a smaller, fit Kazdruk with large sweeping horns. Her short white hair contrasted sharply against her bronze skin. The beastmaster was kneeling beside a large black dragon and washing his ventral belly scales. With a smile, the female Kazdruk turned to Luzella.

“Evening Luzella, what brings you to my luscious stables?”

Luzella leaned her arm against the side of the wall smiling.

“I’m looking to liberate one lucky prisoner from the perils of this forsaken breeding hold.”

Veluri stopped washing the scales and turned back to Luzella with a smirk that quickly melted to worry.

“Oh really? One of my alluring prisoners? You know their importance here Luzella— they are needed to keep the Keeats and dragons at bay when they become too pent up. If they cannot release, the males start mounting each other trying to establish dominance. Then they begin attacking each other and destroy the holding cages in the process, quite a mess really.”

Luzella laughed at the thought.

“Mmm, boys will be boys I suppose,” Luzella paused for a moment thinking. “Well then, can I simply borrow one? I’ll return it in working condition,” Luzella smiled, switching her face to emulate a doe “… I promise.”

Veluri let out a small laugh of her own and went back to washing the scales.

“Fine. But only one! I’m low as it is and I have your promise, whoever you take I want back, alive and in working order!”

“Of course Veluri,”

Veluri looked past Luzella and pointed.

“The three along the far left just arrived.”

“You’re too kind Veluri.”

Veluri rolled her eyes. “Not that you would have taken no for an answer.”

“Indeed, smart girl.” Luzella returned with an evil grin.

Veluri looked up to the dragon and smirked to herself.

“I suppose if they get too pent up again, I can work them myself if needed.”

Luzella’s eyes widen slightly at the thought before turning. She took Avelyn by the arm and moved back to the small area of prisoners.       

“You wanted a choice, so here are your choices little Avelyn. Listen carefully. You will choose who will take your spot under me this eve. One of your pathetic, fellow coalition soldiers. Variety is the spice of life after all.”

Luzella’s words struck Avelyn hard. She tried to look away at the captured group that was now being used as breeding bait for these wild creatures. She wanted nothing to do with this. She would not take the emotional burden of liberating one of her own kind, filling them with false hopes, only to have the prisoner become Luzella’s new plaything— a far worse fate. Avelyn shook her head and tried to leave but Luzella stopped her and pushed her back hard into the side of a cell.

“You brought this upon yourself elf. Now choose, or i’ll choose one to kill as slowly as possible, Luzella ordered sternly.

Avelyn hesitated. She truly didn’t know what to do. How could she live with herself and make a choice? How could she possibly decide on who to give to Luzella? Losing patience, Luzella grinned and approached one of the cage sections, causing three prisoners in the single cell to step back in fear. Luzella grabbed a petite female northern elf. With ease, the amazonian ripped the elf out of the cage. Luzella looked her up and down before throwing the elf to the ground. The elf’s green eyes looked back up at Luzella in a mix of anger and resentment.

Softly, in an almost playful manner, Luzella rolled the elf onto her back before placing her hoof onto the elf’s chest. The elf’s small frame wriggled slightly as Luzella pinned her to the ground with a slight amount of pressure.

“Perhaps this will provide you with further incentive Avelyn. A sister perhaps? Maybe a cousin? daughter? Hmm, childhood friend?” Luzella asked with her hands on her hips now.

Avelyn looked over in horror while running up to Luzella’s side.

“No…don’t you dare!”

Luzella ignored the plead and slowly shifted her weight onto the elf. The prisoner grunted, helplessly trying to push Luzella off and prevent being crushed alive. Luzella disregarded the woman under her hoof and focused on Avelyn. In anger, Avelyn pulled on Luzella’s large arm, trying anything to get her to let up.

“Please! Stop!”

“This blood will be on your hands. You hold the ability to end this Avelyn,” Luzella returned.

The elf began to kick and wiggle side to side as Luzella started to push down now, her long powerful leg ever so slightly flexing.

“It’s a simple choice Avelyn…would be a great waste to see this one die because of your indecisiveness.”

The elf’s legs kicked up and down faster now as she let out a gurgled cry of help.

Avelyn quickly looked around at the various prisoners. Southland elves, Northern elves and humans. Each one a soldier, all of them looking to Avelyn to do something. Avelyn was flooded with mixed emotions. Hatred, terror and disgust trickled through her skin. She felt a pit in her stomach twist and turn as the world spun around her. The tired faces looked back at her cutting deep into her soul. The elf’s feet started to slow. Now only a momentary kick here and there.

“Time is running out Avelyn, these twig like ribs could snap at any moment.”

A charismatic southland elf ran up to the bars wrapping her hands around them tugging as hard as she could.

“Do something! She’s going to kill her!”

Avelyn faced the southland elf and was speechless.

“I-I’m sorry…I can’t…I…I… don’t-“

Luzella smirked as the elf she was stepping on stopped kicking. Avelyn looked back at Luzella and then back to this southland prisoner.

“I…” Avelyn thought she heard a cracking.  “Her! I choose her!” Avelyn finally yelled out pointing at the southland elf. “Wait, please no… gods forgive me. I’m so sorry.” Avelyn looked around at the others surprised at what she had just done. It was too late, she had chosen Luzella’s next victim.

Looking over, Luzella twisted her head with a smirk across her lips and slowly lifted her hoof off the elf. The elf rolled to her side holding her chest, coughing and gasping for air. She would live another day. Kicking the elf out the way, Luzella slowly walked to the cage and looked at the elf Avelyn had chosen.

“Mmm, a lovely choice Avelyn,” Luzella smiled and patted Avelyn on her head like a dog.

“Please Luzella, take me instead. I’m sorry, she doesn’t deserve this!”

“No, no she doesn’t Avelyn. Don’t apologize to me, you should be apologizing to this elf that you hastily chose without reason.” Luzella smiled while pulling the southlander out of the cell.

“This innocent little elf Avelyn? Her only wrongdoing was standing up for the elf you could not defend,” Luzella laughed as she pulled back on the southlander’s perfect deadlocked hair and ran her hand over her supple breasts. Running her eyes up and down her curvy body Luzella curled her lip up into a cruel smile.

“Let me go!” The elf yelled kicking.   

Avelyn watched on in hatred. Everything in her wanted to lash out at Luzella.

Luzella reached down noticing a name tag around her collar. She ripped the metal tag off and examined it. The tag read Tasha. Not every prisoner was named. Only ones with a history or special purpose received tags.    

“Tasha eh? You have no idea what is in store for you, do you? You southlanders are a foolish bunch…although smarter than the rest of the coalition I suppose.” Luzella spat.     

“Curse you and your kind demon!”

The southlander spat and threw another kick towards Luzella.

Luzella didn’t flinch. She lifted the elf off the floor by her hair and peered into her crystal blue eyes that popped against her deep brown cinnamon colored skin.

“Demon? Such discourteous and draconian words southlander,” Luzella spoke and began dragging the elf.

“Avelyn come.” Luzella simply commanded as she dragged the elf out of the breeding cells.

The three made their way off through dark corridors, twisting and turning before the two were shoved into a new empty holding area that was lit dimly by various candles.      

Tasha kicked and wriggled trying to escape Luzella’s grip.

“A feisty one I see.”

Luzella dragged the elf into the an area of holding cells. Each side held a set of empty cages awaiting new batches from the ongoing conflict. Luzella closed off the entrance to the empty section with a loud clang of the steel gate. The heavy locking bar automatically fell into place, sealing themselves off from the rest of the spire. Avelyn watched on from the side wondering how she could help her fellow elf. Pulling Tasha with her, Luzella pulled a heavy chain collar manacle off the side wall and locked it around the southlander’s neck.The links ran off into the darkness anchored to a wall.

“Can’t have you running off now. I wouldn’t want you getting lost.” Luzella smiled as she removed the elf’s wrist shackles and tossed them off to the side. Implanting a sense of hope within the elf. “You won’t be needing these anymore.” She let go of Tasha and gave her a slight shove. The southlander immediately started tugging at the chain looking for anyway to disconnect it.

Luzella ignored Tasha for now, knowing there was no way to disconnect the collar. Many of the prisoner chain sets were surplus dragon mount equipment. Forged from Demkk. Its strength was near double that of elvish steel and triple that of human’s. The heavy weight became no real issue for the dragons. Plus, its resistance to fire made it perfect for dragon harness, armor plates and rigs. So carrying extras over for prisoner duty seemed perfect— if perhaps even overkill. Luzella took Avelyn by the arm and pushed her into an empty cell and shut the cage door. Avelyn shook the bars in response trying to open it. She quickly stopped and looked on at Luzella in hatred. Flashes of resentment filled her mind as a toxic mixture of enmity and Kiyler Geem flooded in. This was his doing. She thought to herself. The emotional turmoil and abuse, was because of him. Avelyn no longer felt sorrow, only malice.

Luzella went back to Tasha casting a long shadow over the elf. Tasha did not cower or back up. She stood firm with her fists ready to attack. She survived Yuldasha long enough until she grew tiresome of her and had her transferred to Veluri’s stables. Surely she could survive Luzella she thought.

The elf threw a stiff punch. Luzella pushed the punch away and quickly lifted Tasha by her collar pinning her back into a stone pillar.

“Naughty elf,” Luzella spoke before quickly composing herself and shaking her head side to side. “Not off to a good start.”

“Your empire will crumble! I’m not afraid to die and I’m not afraid of you or your kind!” Tasha yelled while kicking again. Luzella smirked and tossed the elf to the ground in annoyance, letting her slide for a moment.

“Death? Who said anything about death? You’re worth more to me alive,” Luzella spoke while walking to the other side of the holding area.

There, the Kazdruk picked up a jar of ointment and walked back letting her hips sway while undoing her battle kilt’s belt. The heavy armor plates and leather fell to the ground. The jungle elf’s eyes opened wide in a mix of fear and surprise. It was impossible to miss Luzella’s heavy cock that now swayed into view. Even soft, the thick meaty rod swung side to side. Luzella walked closer to the fallen elf and removed her top, discarding it and letting her heavy full breasts fall free. The elf crawled backward in horror as her eyes attempted to take in the amazonian’s powerful build. Luzella only smiled and placed the jar on top of Avelyn’s cage. Quickly Tasha got to her feet and tried to run away. Luzella held her chain and pulled backward causing the elf to awkwardly fall. Slowly, she crawled towards Avelyn while pulling on her collar again trying to free herself. She looked up at Avelyn and silently mouthed “Help.”

“You’re going to tire yourself out,” Luzella spoke while standing above the elf.

The elf backed into Avelyn’s cell, with no place to go, she readied herself for another scuffle. The flash of excitement returned to Avelyn as she watched Luzella overpower Tasha. A cinder of depravity washed over her. The spark ran through Avelyn’s loins and was strong enough to take her breath away. Intently, she watched how Luzella moved in on her prey. It was her physical power Avelyn now craved. The power to take and control at will. The dark perversion bled through Avelyn as Luzella pushed the southlander to the ground. The elf fought back, but Luzella easily dominated over her.

The world became clouded as she watched. Her conscience fought her, doing its best to push her immoral feelings away. Every time it came close to succeeding, the spark between her legs betrayed her. A jealously fell over Avelyn as she watched Luzella push herself onto the elf. In slow motion, Avelyn continued to watch. The way the elf’s small hands pushed into Luzella, the way her body moved, trapped under Luzella’s build. Avelyn wanted to be in her place. The two continued to wrestle. Even during the feral and havoc display, Luzella retained a smooth and effective movement. She moved with power and purpose, she moved as a refined predator would, like a Panther of the Jungles of Jadoola. Or large northern snow cats of home that staked the snowy woodlands of AzurLyyn.

Avelyn cracked a demented smile as Luzella forced her cock into the elf’s mouth. The spark between her legs jolted as she watched the southlander’s arms become pinned down. Luzella was lust incarnate, delivered from morals. Freeley, the Kazdruk let her animal side take control. Avelyn pulled herself closer to the bars biting her lip softly as Luzella pushed the elf’s head down on her cock in rhythmic pumps. She watched the amazon’s thick cock glisten and her heavy balls swaying with each thrust.

Disgusted, Tasha found the strength to pull free, letting spit and copious amounts of precum spill from her mouth. Luzella looked up and made eye contact with Avelyn. A sly and destructive grin filled the Kazdruk’s face as the southland tried to drag herself away. Luzella stood up and placed her hoof on the chain. Giving the elf zero slack to crawl away. Reaching for the jar she had left on the cage, Luzella undid the top and let the liquid contents spill across her cock. The slick oily ointment smelled of mint and eucalyptus.  Looking down at Avelyn, Luzella placed her cock through the bars of her cell.

“Would you be so kind to lather this in?”

The Kazdruk words broke Avelyn’s malevolent state. She snapped out of the dark corner of her mind. The northern elf hesitated for a moment looking at the thick member that was now pointing at her— staring her down with malice. Luzella tapped the bar to get Avelyn’s attention.

“Hello?”

Avelyn flinched at the sound and quickly wrapped her hand around Luzella’s horse-esque cock. Her elvish hand only made it halfway around it’s girth. Her palm and fingers slid across the slick oil. Slowly, she stroked her hand upward along the shaft and softly smeared the balm across it. Avelyn shivered as Luzella’s cock started to harden. She swallowed hard as her tiny hand slid over the girthy meat and bulging veins. Avelyn had to lean slightly to stop Luzella’s cock head from bumping into her face. A strand of thick precum oozed out clinging to Avelyn’s chest. Looking up at Luzella, Avelyn finished spreading the oil across Luzella’s cock.

“Watch closely Avelyn, for this is what I will do to you tomorrow for your disorderly behavior today.”

Luzella pulled back, letting her hard cock free and turned it towards the southlander. The elf looked up at Luzella’s stiff cock in terror. Avelyn watched as Luzella pulled her prey by the hair and then pushed her into the ground. Straddling the squirming elf now, Luzella began to stuff her cock head between Tasha’s ass cheeks.

Avelyn watched in dread as the elf struggled to try and pull away. Luzella held her still and started to slowly sink more of her thick cock head inside her tight ass. The southlander cried out to stop. She looked up at Avelyn again. The violated elf’s blue eyes speared into Avelyn’s. Straddling the elf and pinning her down, Luzella sank a few more inches into the elf. Her tight ass stretched more trying its best to accept the weighty cock. The elf grunted in pain as the cock head pushed deeper. Luzella bit her lip as her victim’s ass squeezed around her cock. Slowly, she started to pull back slightly. Tugging on the elf’s dreadlocks she made sure the elf knew her place and complied under the Kazdruk’s baleful rule. Pulling her head back more, there was no mistake that Luzella was in full control now.

“You’ve only took a quarter of my cock my dear,” Luzella whispered into the elf’s ear. “Worry not, I will train you to do better.” The Kazdruk laid into the elf, sinking half of her cock this time. The elf dug her fingers into the ground and let out a short shriek. Avelyn looked on helplessly as the southlander struggled under Luzella. Deviously, Luzella slowly pumped her cock in and out of Tasha. In a purposefully cruel manner, the Kazdruk always stopped halfway. The elf let out short grunts as Luzella started to up the pace. Tugging back on her hair harder, Luzella reminded the elf that she was her bitch. Luzella rolled her hips letting her meat plow in and out. The elf’s round ass smacked back into Luzella’s hips as she pressed into the elf even harder now. Pinned to ground, Tasha’s grunts got louder as Luzella fucked, letting her full weight repeatedly drive into the elf.   

Luzella slowed down, letting the elf catch her breath. Now Luzella pushed in slowly. She didn’t stop at the halfway. She felt Tasha tense and try to pull away as the inevitable was now happening. Luzella responded by laying down and letting her weight squash the small elf. As the Kazdruk’s heavy tits enveloped the elf, she grunted out trying to say something about stopping but Luzella pushed on. Dwelling in the elf’s misery with an animalistic grin, the demon carelessly thrusted on. Each scream was cut short too grunts, as Luzella started pounding into the elf now with long slow thrusts. She didn’t hold back and freely let her cock sink as deep as she wished.

 

Harder and harder, each thrust knocked the wind out of the elf. Tasha’s vision blurred as each powerful thrust sank into her ass. Hectically, her hands and arms swam around looking for any leverage to pull away. Luzella bucked like a horse letting her heavy tits knock into the elf’s head. Avelyn looked on in worry. The two made eye contact again as Luzella sank her cock to the hilt.

Avelyn didn’t want to watch but she couldn’t find the will to look away. Luzella’s thrusts began to slow to steady heavy pumps until she started unloading a torrent of cum into the elf. Her load rivaled even the elvish stallons as gallons poured into her victim. Holding the elf in place, her cock head flared while flooding Tasha. The elf laid broken, she whimpered as her innards were forced full of hot Kazdruk seed. She pulled herself forward in one last effort to free herself. This time she didn’t feel Luzella hold her, or pull her back, so she crawled onward. She felt the amazon’s long cock slowly pulling outward. The Kazdruk’s cock was almost free when suddenly she flet pressure in her ass. She pulled harder but Luzella’s cock head had flared wide and was now trapping itself in her ass and not releasing free. Luzella smiled down at her fuck toy.

“Aw, what’s the matter? You were so eager to leave.”

Luzella squeezed the elf’s ass cheeks and greedily pulled her back. Sinking her cock again, it was a harsh reminder for Tasha that Luzella was still very much in charge.

“I’m not done with you.”

 

>><<   

        

 

 Kamri had returned to her chamber and looked over all the notes she had obtained from the great library. She organized the runes and looked each one over carefully. A soft knocking tapped at the door now, a short cadence that brought a smile to Kamri’s face. She knew the pattern and hopped to her feet. Cracking the door open slowly, Jelthra stood on the other side, hand on her hip and smile on her face. Behind her, Brazeek stood with a toothy grin. The two strolled in. Jelthra and Kamri embraced each other with a tight hug, followed by a long sensual kiss. Brazeek looked on with a raised eyebrow.

“Welcome back my love,” Kamri spoke softly. Jelthra returned a mischievous smirk.

“Thank ye, I muz admit, i’ve missed you already. I hear you had quite ze tussle with Wulfshn. “

Kamri returned a sly smile.

“Indeed, I did but It was no easy task.”

Jelthra ran her hand softly across Kamri’s face as if inspecting her.

“Iz never is. Are you injured my dear?”

Kamri shrugged.

“I’ll be fine,” She spoke before turning to Brazeek. ” Thank you Brazeek. I truly appreciate your help. I owe you.”

“I zuppose, I owe you as well old friend, thank you.”  

Brazeek nodded his head.

“Anything to upseeet Luzella,” He chuckled. ” Let me knooow when your plan is complete. Yooou have my blade if needed. If blood must be shed, then let it flow like a raging river.”

Kamri and Jelthra both nodded with twin smiles.

“We will let you know when everything is in place,” Kamri smiled.

“Then good eve,” Brazeek returned bowing his head before leaving.

The heavy door latched behind him as he marched away. Kamri turned and looked at Jelthra.

“Well, that went surprisingly smooth.”   

Jelthra nodded in agreement.

“Aye, too smooth.”

“Can we trust Brazeek?”

“Hmm, that is ze big question.”

“I wonder if his distaste of Luzella is genuine?”

“I’m sure it iz, but don’t let him fool us, i’m sure he would not hesitate to put himself first if a situation or opening should ever arise. He will do waz it takes to get ahead, at any expense.”

“Indeed. Well, we stick to our plan and only include him if needed. The closer we keep this plan to ourselves, the better the chances of pulling it off— Besides, I’m still not sure I can even trust you,” Kamri laughed.

Jelthra broke a smile and pushed Kamri into bed. Moving over her slowly and seductively, Jelthra kissed Kamri on the lips while brushing her fingers across Kamri’s breasts.

“I suppose only time will tell.”

Kamri pushed into the kiss, nibbling on the human’s lower lip.

“I have a place in mind to send Luzella,” Kamri whispered into Jelthra’s ear while softly gliding her fingernails down her partner’s back.

” Oh? Do tell.”

“Mmm, show me I can trust you first—You’re getting close.”

Jelthra smiled at Kamri’s demand and brushed herself into the elf.

“With pleasure my dear.”