The dungeons of House Galaras were carved from the bones of the earth, cold stone and shadows. Flickering torchlight licked at the heavy chains binding Elielis to the wall. Elielis shifted on the hard stone floor, wincing as the movement pulled at the whip marks crisscrossing her back. Bruises ringed her wrists, stark against her pale skin. Exhaustion hollowed her eyes, but within their depths flickered a defiant light. “Not yet,” she whispered. “You have not broken me yet.”
“Talking to yourself again?” The Mathair’s voice sliced through the silence. Elielis stiffened as booted footsteps echoed down the dungeon stairs. The Mathair emerged from the gloom, crimson skirts rustling. A cruel smile curved her lips, revealing pointed teeth. “Have you reconsidered my offer, elf?” Elielis met her gaze. “I will never serve you willingly.” The Mathair sighed. “So stubborn. I had hoped we could come to an…agreement. But it seems more persuasion is required.” She uncoiled a whip from her belt, the braided leather hissing against the stone. Elielis tensed. Not again. She couldn’t—
“You will break,” the Mathair purred. “Everyone breaks eventually.” The whip cracked. Pain exploded across Elielis’s shoulders. She bit back a cry, clenching her jaw. You will not break me, she thought fiercely. I am stronger than you know. Her hands twisted in their manacles as she braced herself for another blow. The Mathair raised her arm again and the blade of the whip whistled through the air, striking Elielis on the side of her face. She gasped, the metallic taste of blood filling her mouth. The Mathair circled her like a predator, the whip trailing behind her like a tail.
“You are a foolish creature,” the Mathair said, tsking. “You could have had such a comfortable life, serving me. But no, you had to resist. And now look at you.” She flicked the whip and it landed across Elielis’s stomach. Elielis doubled over, the air rushing out of her lungs. The Mathair knelt beside her, tracing a finger along the whip marks. “But you see, my dear, I do enjoy a challenge.” She leaned in close, her breath hot against Elielis’s ear. “And I do believe I have found a way to make you submit.”
Elielis’s eyes widened as the Mathair’s hand slid down her body, fingers tracing the curves of her breasts. Fear and disgust warred within her, but she refused to give the Mathair the satisfaction of seeing her break. “Stop,” she said through gritted teeth. “I will never—” The Mathair’s hand tightened around her throat, cutting off her words. “You will do as I say,” she hissed, her grip tightening. Elielis clawed at the Mathair’s hand, struggling to breathe. “You are mine to do with as I please. And right now, I please to hear you scream.” With a snap of her wrist, the Mathair brought the whip down on Elielis’s exposed back, the leather biting into her flesh. Elielis screamed, the sound echoing off the stone walls. The Mathair laughed, the sound cruel and triumphant.
For what felt like hours, the Mathair continued to torture Elielis, alternating between the whip and her own hands. When it was finally done, Elielis sagged against the wall, exhaustion and relief warring within her. Finally the torture for the day was done.
Rhisa crept through the shadows, clutching a bundle of salves and bandages to her chest. The dungeon guards had just changed shifts, but their patrols were irregular. She had to be quick. Slipping into Elielis’s cell, Rhisa gasped. The elf was curled up against the far wall, her pale skin mottled with bruises and red furrows. “Elielis!” Rhisa hurried to her side, dropping to her knees. “What did they do to you?” Elielis’s eyes fluttered open. A weary smile curved her lips. “Rhisa. You shouldn’t be here.” Her gaze fell to the supplies in Rhisa’s hands. “But I am grateful nonetheless.” “Hush.” Rhisa set to work tending Elielis’s wounds with practiced, gentle hands. “I won’t have them hurting you so. You’re kind to me, and braver than any I’ve known.” She wiped away blood and grime, her fingers light on Elielis’s injuries.
Rhisa’s heart ached for the sorrow and determination in Elielis’s voice. “We will be free one day,” she said softly. “Of that, I’m certain.” Elielis met her gaze, shadows clinging to her own. But in her eyes glimmered a fierce light. Hope. “Yes,” she said. “Freedom is worth fighting for. And we will seize it, you and I, from their dark grasp.” Rhisa smiled through sudden tears. “Always.” She squeezed Elielis’s hand, a promise and vow. “Always.”
Elielis squeezed Rhisa’s hand in return. “You’re the light that keeps me from drowning in despair,” she said softly. “The Mathair and her ilk may have our bodies in chains, but they’ll never have our souls.” Rhisa blinked away tears, her heart swelling. “Just as you are the light that keeps me from giving in to the darkness. As long as we have each other, hope will endure. But I am the lucky one, as a human they don’t have it in for me as badly as they do for you. ” The flickering torch cast dancing shadows over Elielis’s face, but her eyes shone with fierce determination. “Even so, let us cling to hope with all our might,” she said, “and forge it into a weapon to cut our bonds.” “Yes.” Rhisa curled her hand around Elielis’s, the touch warm despite the chill of the dungeon. “A weapon of hope and love and courage. And we will wield it together to win our freedom.” Rhisa lifted her gaze to Elielis’s once more, shadows and light dancing across their faces, but in their eyes burned an undying fire.
Hope.
And hope, Elielis knew deep within her soul, would set them free.
Rhisa squeezed Elielis’s hand one last time before slipping away into the shadows, her footsteps echoing softly against the stone floor. Elielis watched until even the faint sounds faded, leaving her alone once more in the gloom. The memory of Rhisa’s touch lingered, a warmth against the chill, and in her mind echoed the vow they had made. To escape. To be free.
Elielis curled onto her side, tucking her hands beneath her cheek. Her body ached from the Mathair’s punishment, wounds throbbing in time with her heartbeat, but deeper still blossomed a flower of hope. One day, the chains would fall away. One day, she and Rhisa would walk free under open skies, the sun shining down upon their faces at long last. One day, they would forge new lives of their own choosing, clinging to each other through whatever storms might come. Until then, Elielis would cling to hope. She would nurture it as Rhisa had tended her wounds, sheltering the fragile flame against the darkness. And when despair crept close, when the chains seemed too heavy to bear, she would remember Rhisa’s eyes gazing into her own and the promise that had passed between them.
A smile touched Elielis’s lips as she drifted off to sleep, hope burning bright within her heart. The dungeon might imprison her body, but it could never touch her soul. Not as long as hope endured. And hope, she knew, would see her free.
Jordiss Galaras strode through the torchlit tunnels of Galaras Mansion, his black boots clicking sharply against the stone floor. His crimson doublet swished around his lean frame as he walked, the poufy sleeves of his black blouse billowing with every movement. An air of power and danger clung to him like a second skin. His calculating crimson gaze took in every detail, missing nothing. As he rounded the corner near the slave pens, a flash of pale skin and golden hair caught his eye. An elven female crouched in one of the larger cages, her wary gaze tracking his approach.
Interest stirred. He stopped before her cage, tilting his head as he studied her. She was tall for an elf, with a lithe, muscular body that would serve him well. Her golden hair was braided back tightly from her face, exposing the delicate lines of her jaw and throat. “What is your name, girl?” His resonant voice echoed through the dungeon. She swallowed hard, her hands clenching into fists. “Elielis.”
“Elielis.” He rolled the name over his tongue, savoring it. His lips curled into a slow, predatory smile. “You will make a fine addition to my company.” Her eyes narrowed, a spark of defiance glinting in their depths. “I belong to no one.” “You belong to whoever holds your leash, girl. And your leash now belongs to me.” He crooked a finger at the slaver hovering nearby. Within moments, the cage door creaked open, and Elielis was dragged forth by her collar, the slaver prostrating himself as he offered her to Jordiss. Jordiss grasped her leash, pulling her close enough to catch her scent – leather and sweat, overlain with fear and rage. His smile widened. “Come, Elielis. Your new life awaits.”
Elielis stood trembling before the heavy wooden door of Jordiss’s chambers, her heart pounding wildly in her chest. She had been bathed and dressed in a sheer black gown that left little to the imagination, the silken fabric clinging to her skin. The slaver gave her leash a sharp jerk, and she stumbled forward into the room. It was dimly lit by a few candles, shadows dancing across the stone walls. Her gaze flew to the large bed draped in crimson, then back to Jordiss. He stood with his back to her, removing his doublet and boots. When he turned, her breath caught in her throat. Lean muscle rippled under pale white, almost translucent skin as he stalked toward her, clad only in his breeches.
“On your knees.” His voice was soft but commanding. She hesitated, defiance flashing in her eyes once more. The slaver yanked hard on her leash, forcing her to the floor. Jordiss tsked, coming to stand before her. He grasped her chin, tilting her face up to meet his gaze. “You will learn, in time. Now, put that pretty mouth of yours to use.” He untied his breeches, freeing his cock. It was larger than any she had seen, and for a moment fear spiked through her arousal. Then he was guiding it between her lips, filling her mouth. She gagged around him, hands flying to his hips. He wove his fingers through her hair, keeping her in place. “Relax your throat,” he purred, rocking his hips. She struggled to obey, tears gathering at the corners of her eyes.
A low moan rumbled from his chest as he quickened his pace. She felt him swell and throb against her tongue, and then he was spilling down her throat in hot, salty spurts. He withdrew from her mouth, caressing her cheek. “You please me well, little one.” The slaver bowed and took his leave, securing the door behind him. They were alone. Jordiss grasped her leash once more, pulling her to her feet. “Now, let us see what else you have to offer.” His smoldering gaze swept over her, and she trembled under the intensity of his desire. Tonight, she would be thoroughly claimed.
Jordiss laid her down upon the bed, taking a moment to admire her beauty. Her skin was pale and smooth, her curves inviting. He bound her wrists and ankles to the four-poster frame, murmuring soft words of pleasure as he touched her. Then he leaned in close, his hot breath tickling her neck as he teased her with his tongue. She writhed beneath him, panting and gasping as pleasure surged through her veins. He smiled against her skin, then moved lower, licking and nipping at her until she was begging for more.
When he finally reached her pussy, she was trembling and slick with anticipation. His tongue probed her eagerly, pushing her closer and closer to the edge. He explored her deeply, tasting every inch of her. She cried out, pleasure radiating through her body as her orgasm crashed over her. But Jordiss was not done with her yet. He tied her legs after moving them over her shoulders, the black silk cloth that held her ankles tied right next to those that tied her wrists. Then he moved up, gently introducing her to the sensations of anal play. He slid his fingers between her ass crack, stroking her and teasing her until she was begging for more.
He took his time, gradually increasing the amount of his fingers, until finally he worked his way up to his cock. He entered her slowly, allowing her to adjust to the new sensation. She moaned, her body arching back in pleasure as he filled her. He thrust slowly, letting her body adjust to his size. With each movement, he pushed her closer and closer to the edge, until finally she was screaming her pleasure.
He collapsed beside her, panting and sweating. Her body shuddered with aftershocks, and she felt the tension in her muscles melting away. He smiled, gathering her into his arms and kissing her forehead. “Well done, my love.” Jordiss pulled her into his arms, holding her close. She felt safe and secure, her heart pounding with gratitude and love. “Welcome to your new life, Elielis,” he whispered. “You will never want for anything. I will take care of you.” Elielis smiled, feeling a deep contentment settle over her. She was not sure why but his assurance made her calmer.
The next morning, Jordiss summoned Elielis to his chambers. She entered on hands and knees, as she had been taught, head bowed. He regarded her coolly from his seat by the hearth. “Come here, girl.” She crawled to him, kneeling at his feet. Her body ached from the previous night’s exertions, and bruises from the whip the Mathair used were still mottling her pale skin. “You have spirit,” he mused, tracing a finger down her cheek. “But you must learn obedience. You will serve me as I see fit, your comfort and desires secondary to mine. Do you understand?” She swallowed hard, forcing herself to meet his gaze. “Yes, Master.”
“Good. Now, let us begin your training.” He held up a crystal decanter filled with dark wine. “First, you will learn to pour my wine without spilling a drop. Then, you will learn the proper way to kneel, how to anticipate my needs, and how to please me in the bedroom. If you prove an apt pupil, I may even allow you certain freedoms.” Hope flickered in her chest at his words. She had to survive this, had to gain his favor. It was the only way she would be able to escape her fate. “Watch closely.” He demonstrated how he liked his wine poured, the angle of the decanter and glass. Then he handed both to her. “Your turn.”
Her hands trembled as she mimicked his movements, the wine splashing over the rim of the glass. Cursing, she righted it just in time. Jordiss’s eyes narrowed, and she shrank back. “Clumsy girl. Do it again, and do it properly this time.” She took a steadying breath, focusing on the task. Not a single drop was spilled as she poured. “Better.” His tone remained stern, but she thought she glimpsed approval in his gaze. “With practice, you will achieve perfection.”
She dipped her head. “Yes, Master. I will do better, I swear it.” “See that you do.” He raised the glass, taking a slow sip of wine. “You have much to learn, little one. But I have patience.” A flicker of hope sprang to life in her chest. She would be the perfect servant, the ideal lover. She would make herself indispensable to him, and in so doing, earn her freedom. The path ahead was long, and fraught with peril. But she had no other choice. Her fate depended on it.
The next morning, Elielis woke as the first sounds of activity in Mansion Galaras were audible in the chamber. For a moment, she forgot where she was, blinking at the unfamiliar surroundings. Then she saw Jordiss beside her, still asleep, his chest rising and falling with each breath. The events of the previous night came rushing back to her, and she flushed at the memory. He had been gentle with her, almost tender, a far cry from what she’d expected.
She started to slip from the bed, not wishing to disturb him, but his hand closed around her wrist. “Stay,” he murmured, his eyes still closed. Heart pounding, she obeyed, settling back against the pillows. His arm curled around her, pulling her close against his side. She tensed, waiting for him to take his pleasure again, but he merely nestled his face into her hair with a contented sigh. They lay together as the morning blossomed, and sounds of slaves and Galaras Drow moving through the hallways were much stronger. A strange peace descended over Elielis, one she had never known before. She found herself relaxing into his embrace, the steady beat of his heart lulling her.
At length, he spoke, his voice a low rumble against her ear. “You thought I would treat you cruelly.” She swallowed hard. “I…did not know what to expect, Master.” “You expected pain and violence. As is typical for my kind.” His tone held no rancor, only quiet observation. “But that is not my way.” “I see that now.” She paused. “You are not like other Drow.” “No.” His hand stroked her hair. “The strong dominate the weak. But a wise ruler also shows mercy, and inspires loyalty through kindness, not fear alone.”
His words resonated within her, awakening a fragile hope. “Then you believe I can be loyal to you willingly? Not just out of duty?” “If I did not think so, I would not have chosen you.” He tilted her chin up, gazing into her eyes. “You intrigue me, little one. I believe we shall get on well together.” A smile curved her lips, tentatively at first, then blossoming into something genuine. “As do I…Master.”
She tensed, her heart skipping a beat. What did this mean? Was she now Jordiss’s bedslave, to be used whenever he desired? The thought filled her with conflicting emotions. Part of her recoiled at the idea, longing for freedom and independence. But another part craved the intimacy they had shared, his gentle touch and soothing words. She felt torn between her past and an uncertain future, afraid to hope for something better. Jordiss stirred behind her, pulling her closer against him. “Do not be afraid,” he murmured, his breath tickling the back of her neck. “You are safe here.”
His reassurance eased her anxiety, though it did not erase her doubts entirely. “What happens now?” she asked softly. He pressed a kiss to her shoulder. “You will continue to serve me, in all ways, as you did last night.” Heat rose in her cheeks at the memory. She had given herself to him fully, surrendering her body and will. Part of her was ashamed at how easily she had submitted, accustomed as she was to fighting for every scrap of control in her life. But she could not deny the pleasure he had given her, a balm for her wounded spirit.
“Must I remain your bedslave?” she said. “Or will I have other duties?” “Later, you will serve me as my scout and treasure hunter,” he replied. “But when we are alone, you are mine to do with as I please.” He nipped at her ear, a hint of possessiveness in his tone. “Is that understood?” She swallowed hard, desire warring with apprehension. She was surprised to hear he was planning to have her scout for him, that was unexpected. Yet, he did expect her to remain his slave.
But in the end, she had already chosen her path. She belonged to Jordiss now, in body and soul, and she would follow wherever he led. She had fallen in love, and enslaved herself. “Yes, Master,” she breathed. “I understand.” His hand slid lower, claiming her in a way that left no room for doubt. And as pleasure overwhelmed her senses once more, she gave herself up to it, embracing the transformation that had only just begun.
That night, as Jordiss slept beside her, Elielis lay awake staring into the darkness. Her body still tingled pleasantly from their joining, a reminder of the power he wielded over her. She knew she should feel afraid—and part of her did. The Mathair’s wrath was easily incurred, and Elielis had defied her by giving herself to another. But she could not bring herself to regret it. In Jordiss’s arms, she had found a sanctuary from the cruelty of the world, a respite from the loneliness that had plagued her for as long as she could remember. Serving him came as naturally as breathing, filling a void inside her she had not known was there.
And yet…she feared what the future held. Jordiss had promised to take her with him when he left on his next expedition, liberating her from the Mathair’s grasp. But Elielis knew such freedom would come at a price. She would be bound to Jordiss instead, her fate entirely in his hands. Part of her longed to escape, to reclaim the independence she had lost. But the thought of being alone again filled her with dread. She had grown accustomed to his presence, the solid warmth of his body curled around hers. She craved his touch, his gentle hands and soothing voice. Without him, the world seemed cold and bleak.
In the end, she knew she had no choice. She belonged to Jordiss now, in body and soul, and she would follow wherever he led. Her fate was sealed; there was no turning back. The future was shrouded in mystery, holding both promise and peril. But whatever came to pass, they would face it together. She nestled closer to him with a contented sigh, her fears fading into the shadows as she surrendered to the comfort of his embrace. Her path was set, her destiny entwined with his, and she would walk it willingly to the end.
The heavy collar bit into Elielis’s neck as Jordiss tugged sharply on her leash. She stumbled after him into the Audience Room, pulse racing. What was he scheming now? The Mathair lounged on her ebony throne, regarding them with red, depthless eyes. “My son. What business brings you here, interrupting my reverie?” Her melodious voice held an edge of warning. Jordiss bowed low. “A proposal, Honored Mother, which I believe will intrigue you.” Elielis dropped into a trembling curtsy, gaze fixed on the floor. Her stomach churned with dread.
“Speak, then.” A hint of interest glinted in the Mathair’s tone. “I wish to purchase Elielis.” Jordiss’s words shocked Elielis into meeting the Mathair’s gaze. “She has skills that would benefit my Company greatly. I will pay handsomely for her.” Elielis’s heart thudded wildly. Freedom? After all these years of torment, could it truly be within her grasp? The Mathair examined her nails, considering. “The girl has been nothing but trouble since we captured her. Yet she is quite skilled in scouting and stealth, as you say.” Her lips curved into a cruel smile. “I will sell her for 5,000 gold pieces.” Jordiss didn’t even flinch. “Done.” Elielis swayed, lightheaded with disbelief and joy. She was free. Free!
“The gold shall be transferred to my accounts immediately,” the Mathair said. “And the slave is yours.” She waved a dismissive hand. Jordiss tugged Elielis close, meeting her stunned gaze. “You are mine now, little one,” he murmured. “And I will treat you far better than she ever did.” Tears sprang to Elielis’s eyes as the weight of that collar disappeared from her mind. She was free. And she belonged to a Master who might actually care for her. At long last, her nightmare was over. A new beginning dawned.
Elielis followed Jordiss through the torchlit tunnels of House Galaras, her heart pounding. After so many years imprisoned in the dungeons, the twisting passages seemed alien and strange. “Do not be afraid,” Jordiss said softly. “You are under my protection now.” His gentle tone eased her anxiety, though her conflicting emotions still warred within. Joy at her newfound freedom warred with fear of the Mathair’s wrath if she discovered Elielis’s growing affection for her son.
They descended into the armory, where Jordiss selected supplies for their journey: packs, cloaks, waterskins, daggers and rations. “We embark for the Surface on the morrow,” he said. “You will need to prepare as well.” “The Surface?” Elielis breathed. She had spent such a very long time in the oppressive dark of Underground. What would it be like to feel the sunshine on her face again? Apprehension flickered through her excitement. The Mathair would never allow her to go free. If she discovered Elielis’s intentions to escape with her son, there would be a fate worse than death awaiting her.
“Do not fear, little one.” Jordiss tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear, his touch igniting sparks along her skin. “I will keep you safe. The Surface holds a new life for you, if you dare to seize it.” His gentle smile eased her doubts, awakening a fierce longing in her heart. A life above, free from torment, and perhaps even love if she dared to hope for it. The Surface was a risk, but for a chance at freedom and happiness, it was one worth taking. Elielis smiled up at him, determination etching lines in her face. “I dare.” Jordiss’s answering grin lit his handsome features. “Then let our adventure begin.”
Once more Elielis was worrying, as Jordiss was making arrangements and she was left in his rooms alone. Tomorrow she would leave this place forever. Apprehension and excitement warred within her as she packed the few belongings she owned. A new life awaited her above, one of freedom and possibility. Yet the Mathair’s wrath was not easily escaped. If she discovered their plans… Elielis shook off the thought, straightening her shoulders. Jordiss had promised to protect her. She would trust in him, and in the future they would forge together.
A soft knock sounded at her door. Elielis opened it to find Jordiss waiting, a cloak of deep crimson in his hands. “For you,” he said, draping it over her shoulders. The velvet was soft as air, lined with black silk. “So you will not stand out among my company.” Elielis clutched the edges of the cloak, blinking back tears. Never had she been given such a kingly gift. “Thank you,” she whispered. Jordiss tilted her chin up with a knuckle, his eyes glowing in the dim light. “You deserve far more than I can give you, little one.”
Elielis stretched up on her toes, brushing her lips against his. The sweetness of the kiss stole her breath away. “I am yours, as you are mine,” she said softly. “Now and always.” A smile lit Jordiss’s face as he enfolded her in his embrace. “Then we embark as one for our new life. The Surface awaits, and adventures yet to be discovered.” Arm in arm they left the dungeons of House Galaras behind, their path lit by the light of freedom and the promise of a future forged together.
Elielis blinked against the sudden dazzle of crystals as they emerged from the tunnel into a wide cavern, stalactites glittering like daggers of ice from the ceiling. The air was damp and chill, scented with minerals and mold. Jordiss squeezed her hand. “Are you well?” She nodded, still gazing around in wonder. “I have never seen such a place. It is beautiful.” “There are many strange and wondrous sights in the deeps, if one knows where to look.” Jordiss led her along a narrow path beside a stream that flowed over rocks worn smooth from centuries of water. “We have a long journey ahead, but there is no need to rush. I wish for you to see all that you have been denied for so long.”
Elielis smiled up at him, joy bubbling in her chest. “You are too generous, my lord.” “Not generous enough.” Jordiss paused, tilting her chin up to kiss her softly. “You have given me your heart, little one. The least I can offer in return is to show you the world that is now ours to explore together.” They walked hand in hand through the winding tunnels, sometimes speaking, other times content with silence. A deep peace settled over Elielis such as she had never known. She was free, and safe, and loved. What more could she ask for than this?
When they stopped to rest, Jordiss spread his cloak on the ground and drew her down beside him. Elielis curled against his chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart. “You seem happy,” Jordiss said, his hand stroking her hair. “I am,” she whispered. “Happier than I ever dreamed I could be.” Jordiss tilted her chin up, his eyes glowing. “Then we shall continue on this path together.” Elielis stretched up to kiss him, sweetness flooding her senses. She was his, heart, body and soul, and would follow him to the ends of the world. “Always,” she breathed against his lips.
The tunnels stretched endlessly before them, an abyss of shadows and secrets not yet uncovered. As much as the unfamiliar sights filled Elielis with wonder, a knot of fear coiled in her belly at the thought of traversing this vast underworld. What other dangers might lurk beneath the surface, waiting to ensnare them in its grasp? She had only known the dungeons of House Galaras, a small part of Dorcatair City’s sprawling network. The rest remained a mystery, shrouded in myth and legend. Elielis glanced at Jordiss, drawing comfort from his presence at her side. He walked with purpose, his steps sure and confident. She knew he had traveled these tunnels many times before on adventures with his company.
Still, her anxiety persisted. She wet her lips, hesitating before she spoke. “Do you think…will we face many challenges on our journey?” Jordiss smiled down at her, squeezing her hand. “There are always challenges to overcome, but you need not fear. I will keep you safe.” “I know, but…” Elielis faltered, heat flooding her cheeks. She did not wish to seem weak or cowardly in his eyes. “Underground is vast and dangerous. We are but two against the unknown.” Jordiss paused, turning to face her. He cupped her cheek, his eyes glowing with warmth. “You forget, little one. We are not alone. My company awaits us, and together we have faced far greater dangers than these tunnels hold.”
His thumb stroked her cheekbone, chasing away her doubts. “Our path may not always be easy, but I promise we shall overcome any obstacle if we stand united. You are my heart, Elielis, my warmth in the winter. Nothing will keep me from protecting you.” Elielis smiled, reassured by his words. “Forgive my fears. I know that with you, I am safe.” “There is nothing to forgive,” Jordiss said softly. “But know this – you will never again walk alone. I am with you, every step of the way, and always shall be.” Elielis rose on her toes to kiss him, her heart full to bursting. United, there was no challenge they could not face. She was ready to embrace whatever awaited them in the tunnels ahead.
They trudged on through the twisting tunnels of Underground, Elielis keeping pace beside Jordiss. Her eyes grew wide as they approached a cavernous opening ahead, a glittering azure glow spilling into the passageway. “The Surface,” Jordiss said, a smile in his voice. “We’re nearly there.” Elielis quickened her steps, eager to emerge from the stifling darkness of the tunnels. The azure glow intensified as they entered the massive cavern, and for the first time in forever Elielis beheld the sky. An endless expanse of bright blue stretched overhead, pale clouds drifting in a sea of vibrant color. The sun was a glowing orb of white-hot fire, its radiance nearly blinding after the gloom of Underground.
Elielis stared in wonder, tears pricking her eyes. Jordiss gazed at her with unconcealed affection, clearly delighting in her joy. “Welcome to the Surface, little one.” “I had forgotten how beautiful it was,” Elielis breathed. She turned in a slow circle, drinking in the details – the rustling trees, a babbling brook winding through the grass, birds chirping a lively song as they flitted from branch to branch. Elielis felt her heart swell with a profound sense of peace. She was home once more.
“Come,” Jordiss said gently, giving her arm an encouraging squeeze. “My Company awaits. They will be overjoyed to meet you.” Elielis nodded, tearing her gaze from the mesmerizing sky. She had found her freedom, her purpose – and she was ready to embrace this new life that awaited her. Jordiss led her from the cavern towards a sprawling camp in the distance, where a large group was gathered around several crackling campfires. They turned as one at the sound of approaching footsteps, and a chorus of greetings rose to welcome their Captain home.
Elielis hesitated, suddenly shy under the scrutiny of so many curious gazes. But Jordiss gave her hand a reassuring squeeze, and she squared her shoulders, meeting their eyes with quiet confidence. These were Jordiss’s companions and followers, his trusted friends – and now, she hoped, her own as well. She had proven her worth to him, and she was determined to do the same for his company.
A blonde woman detached herself from the group and strode forward, her eyes alight with warmth. “Captain Jordiss! You’ve returned, and with a guest in tow. Welcome, little one – I’m Ava, proud to be a part of this motley crew.” Elielis bowed respectfully. “I am Elielis. It is an honor to meet Jordiss’s second-in-command.” Ava laughed. “Polite and perceptive. You’ll do well here, Elielis.” She turned back to the others. “Come, gather round! Captain Jordiss has brought us a new member for his personal guard – and a skilled scout, if I’m not mistaken.”
Murmurs of interest and approval rippled through the group as they formed a loose circle around the crackling fire. Elielis’s nerves eased at the warm welcome, and she leaned into Jordiss, filled with quiet joy. This was where she belonged. These were her people now – a family of outcasts and adventurers, bonded by the quest for treasure and magic. They were warm and welcoming and made her feel instantly at home.
Sunlight filtered through the canvas tent, dappling Elielis’s face. She yawned and stretched, a deep sense of contentment filling her bones. Outside, the forest was alive and vibrant. Scarlet and amber leaves rustled in the breeze, their crisp scent mingling with pine and moss. Squirrels chattered in the branches, a woodpecker tapped at a tree trunk. Elielis inhaled deeply. Such beauty. She ducked out of the tent, Jordiss’s cloak wrapped around her shoulders against the morning chill. The Mathair would never understand. Here, in this place of wonder, Elielis had found peace. And love.
Jordiss emerged from the woods, a brace of rabbits slung over one shoulder. He smiled at her, white teeth flashing only a little brighter than his pale skin, and her heart swelled. “Good morning, âlâla.” He pressed a kiss to her forehead, his lips warm. “Did you sleep well?” “Very well, Master. Thank you.” She took the rabbits from him. “I will prepare breakfast.” Jordiss stroked her cheek, his red eyes glowing. “You spoil me, little one.” Elielis ducked her head, hiding her blush. “It is my duty and my pleasure, Master.”
“And mine to keep you at my side.” Jordiss tilted her chin up, gazing at her intently. “You belong to me now, Elielis. You will never be alone again.” Peace. Love. Belonging. Elielis had never imagined such gifts could be hers. She wrapped her arms around Jordiss, breathing in his scent of leather and spice. “I am yours, Master,” she whispered. “Always.” Jordiss held her close, his heart beating against hers. The forest sang around them, vibrant and alive and eternal. Like their love. Elielis smiled, joy and purpose filling her soul.
Elielis hummed softly as she skinned the rabbits, her hands quick and sure. The scent of blood was sharp in the crisp morning air, mingling with the pine and moss. Jordiss emerged from his tent, buckling on his sword belt. “The horses are ready. We ride within the hour.” “Yes, Master.” Elielis set the skinned carcasses in a pot of water to soak, then began packing up the camp. Her motions were automatic, borne of long practice. She rarely needed instruction anymore, anticipating Jordiss’s needs and the routines of the camp.
He came up behind her, sliding his arms around her waist. “So capable,” he murmured, nuzzling her neck. “So obedient and sweet.” Elielis leaned into his embrace, a flush of pleasure sweeping over her. “I live to serve you, Master.” “And I, you.” Jordiss turned her in his arms, gazing down at her. His eyes glowed crimson, lit with a dangerous fire that made her shiver. “You are mine, Elielis. As I am yours.” “Master,” she breathed. Her heart swelled, overflowing with love for this Drow who had claimed her so completely. Jordiss bent his head, kissing her with a fierce tenderness that made her knees weak. Heat pooled low in Elielis’s belly, and she melted against him, lost in the taste and feel of him. When he drew back, she was breathless. “The horses, Master?” she managed.
A slow smile curved his lips. “They can wait.” He scooped her into his arms and carried her back to the tent, hunger in his eyes. Elielis laughed, joy bubbling up inside her. She wrapped her arms around his neck, desire burning away all else. Let the horses wait. She belonged to Jordiss, now and always, and his pleasure was hers. The doubts might come back, but he would soothe them as he had time and again. Her heart had found freedom even if she had not recognized it when it arrived, it was hers now. With Him. For the first time in a long time, she was aware she was truly happy.
Read more about Jordiss’ adventures in the upcoming book ‘Songs in Shadows’!