The Deviant Dominant

Elvira was stunned. She had tried to anticipate the trickery – she’d known it was coming in some form or another – but still, she was blindsided. “If Laera is your date, then why am I coming?”

 

“You are going to document everything,” Lukas said, handing her a parchment and a pen. “What we see, what we eat, what we do. You’ll keep your distance, but this task will require you to stay focused on us so you don’t miss anything.”

 

“Fuck you,” the older Anoran cursed, the beginnings of tears beginning to form in her eyes. The carriage began moving, carrying them off to the first part of Elvira’s dream date.

 

They arrived at the vineyard that Elvira had specially picked out. Lukas and Laera took a short tour of the property, enjoying some of their most popular wines and some that had yet to be released to the public. Elvira stayed a good distance away, dutifully scribbling down notes as they enjoyed their wine tasting. She had recovered from the initial sadistic twist of the night’s fate, but was still fuming at the gall of the tall Dominant.

 

The couple were then guided into a dining area. In a gentlemanly flourish, Lukas pulled out Laera’s chair for her. Once seated, they were presented a frilly-fonted menu, and ordered a pair of house specials. Elvira watched with envy from a corner, lapsing in her task of documenting everything. Occasionally, she would catch herself staring and jolt back to reality, her pen frantically swirling as she tried to catch up.

 

The two lovers chatted while they waited for their meal to arrive. Laera giggled as Lukas told her about the time one of his friends from Fernin had dared him to sneak onto old man Hank's farm. His goal had been to ride the bull for as long as he could hang on. He had lasted a respectable amount of time on its bucking back, but had completely forgotten about the red handkerchief hanging out the back pocket of his pants, which had caused him quite the problem after the understandably irate beast had thrown him off.

 

Laera was enthralled with his story. Her laughter carried over to the extremities of the dining room, where her scowling older sister was situated. The meal arrived shortly after atop plates with golden designs around its borders. A couple of artfully pastried steaks were centered on each plate with a side of grilled vegetables and creamy mashed potatoes. Elvira continued writing furiously on the parchment as she watched her sister enjoy the meal that should have been hers.

 

The carriage carried them back into Vandhoven, to a small comedy venue in the heart of the city. Elvira was told to wait in the lobby; she had not been granted a ticket. Unable to witness the actual show itself, she was privy to the roars of laughter coming from within. Lukas and Laera emerged after the show, her arm draped around his shoulder and both of their faces grinning from ear to ear.

 

“I had a great time tonight,” said the tall Adventurer as he guided his date to the carriage. “Thank you for joining me.”

 

“Thanks for inviting me,” she giggled.

 

They headed back to the mansion for the final part of the night, which would be spent in Laera's bedroom. Arriving at the front door, Lukas gave Laera a passionate kiss and then ordered her to go to her room and prepare herself for him. She blew him another kiss before turning and disappearing into the residence.

 

Lukas turned to the remaining Anoran. “I will ensure that the door that connects your rooms is cracked,” said Lukas. "I expect you to write down every single detail."

 

"You can't be serious!" Elvira exclaimed. "This is too far, Lukas!"

 

"I am dead serious," he said, and then walked off to the bedroom where his prize awaited.

 

Elvira was left standing at the entrance to the mansion, fuming. She stomped her foot in anger at the situation  – a comparatively major betrayal of her true feelings that she was glad neither her sister nor Lukas had witnessed. The hijacked date had spiraled out of control, scorching her in a pantheon of emotions.  After regaining her composure, she reluctantly went up to her room and moved her desk close to the connecting door. She waited, her pen poised over the parchment, ready for Lukas to grant the sliver of access. A moment later, the door inched open just enough.

 

A part of her wanted to resist on principle. Another part spun a lie about how she would only do it to make amends with her sister. The truth was that couldn’t help herself; she wanted to see Lukas’ cock again. It was a truth she couldn’t even wholly deny. She loathed herself for it, but there she was, peering through a crack at Lukas’ naked buttocks, praying that he would turn around and give her what she wanted. He did exactly that, commanding his eighteen-year-old submissive to kneel in front of him in a specific and incredibly convenient spot. He’d been quite serious about having the older sister document everything.

 

Elvira saw it happen in slow motion. Lukas’ cock appeared and began growing rapidly. The hardening was slow, the flesh swelling and stretching. It reached its full length and then stayed there; her eyes drank in every inch of it. Her heart beat in her ears as she salivated, wishing she was the one kneeling on the floor in front of him.

 

The Dominant then gave another command. “Open.” Both Laera and Elvira obeyed, opening their mouths. The younger Anoran stuck her tongue out to greet the tip of his cock. The next order was one Elvira was unable to comply with. “Suck.”

 

Elvira felt a wetness begin to grow between her legs. She was trapped watching her little sister suck her date's cock, unable to stop herself from enjoying the sight. Lukas grabbed her head, moving her face up and down the length of his shaft. She was taking the full length of him into her mouth. Elvira felt jealous rage mixing together with her arousal. How was her younger sister able to handle the size of him? The older sister's competitive nature convinced her she could take the entire length too, already forgetting her struggle from two nights prior.

 

Her fingers slipped between her thighs. Unable to stop herself, she rubbed herself as she watched Lukas thrust his hips forward. The Dominant was getting rougher with her sister, grabbing her hair and forcing his cock in and out of her mouth. Laera’s eyes looked up, her big blue eyes shining with submission as she kept sucking while getting face fucked. Elvira found herself on the edge, her fingers rubbing her clit furiously as she watched him use her sister. The promised orgasm crashed over her, sending her reeling to the floor.

 

Lukas decided it was time to fuck. He pulled his cock out of Laera’s mouth, his shaft pulsing angrily at being deprived of her greatly improved oral skills. He ordered her to get up on the bed, and she did as she was told. She crawled up on all fours, spreading her ass cheeks wide. The Dominant got behind her and lined his cock up with her cunt. His hand slapped the round cheek of her ass, and he thrust his hips forward. His dick disappeared into the younger Anoran, causing her to let out a moan of pleasure. He began thrusting in and out of her, enjoying her warm tightness.

 

The sounds of sex echoed from the room next door. Elvira scribbled fervently as she watched, trying to capture every detail. She was in awe of how big Lukas’ cock looked inside Laera’s tight pussy. He pounded his wanton slut, egged on by her cries of pleasure.

 

Laera was loving every second of it. "Fuck me! Use your little fucktoy! I love the way your huge cock feels in my tight pussy."

 

Elvira was captivated by the sight of her taskmaster’s cock slamming into her sister. The Dominant grabbed her blonde hair, using it as leverage as he fucked her from behind. A cry escaped Laera’s lips, her body shaking as she came on Lukas’ cock. He held her in place, continuing to pump into her.

 

Lukas’ grunts grew louder. He gripped his submissive's hips with his strong hands as he bucked wildly. He was getting closer, Elvira realized. Her pen raced across the page, recording his every movement. Laera's ass jiggled with each thrust of his cock, her gorgeous face looking back at him with a mixture of lust and submission. She began moaning louder, another orgasm on its way.

 

Lukas was reaching his climax; the walls of Laera’s pussy were tightening around his shaft. “You are a good fucktoy,” he grunted. "Take my cock like the slut you are. Cumming! I'm fucking cumming!”

 

The Dominant buried himself balls deep inside his prize, unloading his seed into her cunt. Laera began shaking, her orgasm triggered by the filling of her pussy. He held himself in place for much of his climax, then gave a few last thrusts, making sure every drop was deposited inside of her.

 

Lukas pulled his spent cock out of Laera, who collapsed on the bed. The Dominant laid down next to his prize, holding her close to him. The couple cuddle, their bodies slick with sweat and the young girl's pussy filled with cum.

 

Elvira sat on the floor of her room, her legs splayed wide and a hungry look on her face. She finished writing on the parchment, doing her duty in spite of her selfish detour.

 

Lukas slipped out of Laera’s room and walked the short distance down the hall to Elvira’s door. Without knocking, he pushed it open and entered, catching Elvira off guard. She hastily pulled up her panties. She scowled at him, but kept her voice down. “What are you doing here? Didn’t anyone teach you to knock?”

 

“I’m just checking to ensure that you finished,” he said with a mischievous grin. He glanced around; Gemma’s unique furniture was still lined up along the wall.

 

“You want evidence?” the elf sneered. She approached him and shoved her wet fingers up at his face, aiming for his nose, but Lukas’ reflexes were too quick for her. He caught her by the wrist. 

 

Lukas took a sniff, and then smirked. “I wasn’t referring to that finish,” he said smugly, still gripping her wrist. “Did you finish your task?”

 

“That was one hell of a task,” she said, ripping her arm from him. She grabbed her parchment and handed him the written account of their date. “I think it should count as both your tasks. Setting up the date, and then writing it all down – especially that last part.”

 

“Not a chance,” he said. “What did you learn?”

 

“What did I learn? You’re a cheeky little fucker.” Elvira's scowl deepened as she glared at him. "You're enjoying this, aren't you – watching me squirm? It’s not enough to humiliate me in public. You have to come in here and make me humiliate myself in my own room.” She clenched her jaw, struggling to decide whether to throw him out of the same door he’d barged in, or to open a different, metaphorical door.

 

“I learned I picked a vengeful enemy,” she said, the tension between them palpable. Elvira's opal eyes flashed with anger, but beneath it was a hint of respect. “That was cruel – really cruel. I saw my sister get treated like a queen while I was tossed aside.”

 

She took a deep breath. It did little to ease the tightness in her voice. “I hate admitting this, but it was a very fitting punishment. I tried to do that to her. I didn’t intend to, but I was blinded by my own ambition… jealousy… whatever it was. I was an absolute bitch to my sister – and also to you. I’ve apologized several times to Laera, but I’ve never apologized to you. I’m sorry for treating you with such disrespect and breaking your trust.”

 

“That’s a good start, Elvira. I hope you are being sincere.”

 

There was a long pause. “I hope I am, too,” she said with sadness weighing in her eyes.

 

She glanced around at her room, unable to maintain eye contact with Lukas. “Get out of here before Laera finds you,” she teased softly. “I don’t want her to add more punishments.”

 

“Really? I thought you were starting to enjoy some of them.” 

 

Lukas choose to make a hasty retreat from the room as a flustered Elvira swatted at his broad shoulders

 

***

 

The following morning, the Adventurers helped Elvira prepare for her party with the hour they had before the ceremony. Lukas’ and Gemma’s height were utilized to help decorate. Gwyn, who would normally be the most helpful, was quietly chattering with Laera about her date. The young elf blushed as Gwyn pushed for the more intimate details. Fiona and Lucy were given the task of searching through Elvira’s old clothes and finding dresses that would be suitable for them and Gwyn. Elvira assumed nothing of hers would fit Gemma, but the tall brunette did still have the dress she’d worn for her first date with Lukas.

 

A very stressed Elvira rushed around trying to accomplish everything at once before finally they departed for the Grand Hall of the Wyvern Guild. Similar to the event they’d attended in Eberlorn, the venue was organized and arranged to host the well-attended ceremony. There were countless rows of chairs all facing the stage.

 

Elvira headed somewhere backstage, leaving Lukas and the girls to find seats and sit down. They found a set only a couple of rows back from the front, but Fiona didn’t join them immediately. Lukas wasn't sure what she was up to, but he guessed it was important.

 

The murmur of conversations consistently grew as they waited for the ceremony to begin. They chatted with a few nearby Adventurers, learning a little more about Vandhoven. The crowd was growing restless as the minutes ticked by.

 

After a short while, a familiar voice rang through the room from up on the stage. “Silence, please!” Fiona still hadn’t returned to claim the seat Lukas had saved for her. Elvira hadn’t yet taken the stage.

 

The crowd settled down quickly after hearing Marshal Jain's voice. "Today we gather to celebrate our new Guildmaster, Elvira! It is an honor to have her join our leadership. She has proven herself capable and wise beyond her years. I know she will help the Guild grow even more prosperous and powerful."

 

While the Marshal spoke, Fiona snuck back into her seat, a mischievous fire dancing in her eyes. "Where've you been?" Lukas whispered over to her. The redhead winked at him and then handed him her panties, which had been balled up in her hand.

 

Marshal Jain continued. "So without further ado, allow me to present our new Guildmaster!" 

 

The curtains to the side of the stage drew open. Elvira stepped out, a fine maroon dress shimmered in the light as she strode on to the center of the stage. The dress hugged her curves in a tantalizing way, but it was not her sensuous figure that was most noticeable. Lukas – and most everyone seated in the front – was privy to a much more scandalous sight.

 

Elvira's platinum blonde hair was disheveled, her makeup smeared. It was uncharacteristic of the Anoran to look so unkempt, especially on her big day. Her eyes had a dazed quality to them, but what finally tipped Lukas off was the clear, glistening liquid dripping down her chin. 

 

With wide eyes Lukas slowly looked back over to Fiona. "Wow," he mouthed. The redhead just sat back with her arms crossed, the smuggest look plastered on her face. To Fiona’s credit, Elvira had looked very stressed earlier that morning. On the stage in front of them, she just simply looked stunned. Still, Lukas heard excited whispers around him as others tried to figure out what was going on.

 

If Marshal Jain noticed anything off about Elvira's appearance, he hid it well. "Elvira, are you prepared to be sworn in as the Guildmaster of the Wyvern Guild?"

 

The young leader nodded, her confident composure slowly returning. "I am ready, Marshal Jain."

 

The Marshal summoned the guild’s Treasurer, who brought forth a beautifully crafted sword. Marshal Jain raised the weapon into the air, and it glowed with divine energy. He lowered the blade, presenting its handle to Elvira. The elf took the sword, both hands gripping the hilt. She held it in front of her, the blade sticking straight up. 

 

"Repeat after me,” the Marshal intoned. “By my hand and by my heart, I swear to defend the balance of this world. I will be a champion for the innocent and a vanquisher for the evil. May my reign as Guildmaster of the Wyvern Guild be marked by glory, prosperity, and the unwavering dedication to the sacred Adventuring quest." After he spoke, Elvira repeated the words after him, her voice strong and sure.

 

Once she was finished, Marshal Jain nodded his head in approval, prompting a large cheer from the crowd. The new Guildmaster returned the ceremonial sword to the guild officer. After returning the blade to the treasurer, the Marshal spoke to the crowd. “We will hear some brief words from our new Guildmaster, and then the newly appointed Deputy Guildmaster will follow her.”

 

Elvira smiled. The salacious juices on her chin had less of a sheen as they slowly dried. “I’m honored to be standing before you all today, my fellow Adventurers and friends. I promise you that we have exciting times ahead, and I will lead the Wyvern Guild to even greater prosperity. We will tackle any challenges that will come our way.”

 

Lukas watched her intently. Even with the humorous evidence of Fiona’s domination crusted on her face, the elf was off to a good start. Her blue eyes were burning with uncontained enthusiasm as she continued. “The Mystic Forest needs pruning. We will answer that call! The community of Vandhoven and the settlements that surround it need our support. We will answer that call! The Tournament of Immortal Heroes beckons us to glory. We will answer that call – and dammit, we are going to beat those Anoran teams and those capital teams! This is our moment!” Elvira raised her arm in the air as the crowd roared. 

 

Lukas couldn’t help but admire the young Guildmaster. Lukas couldn’t help but admire the young Guildmaster. Despite being occasionally put off by her arrogance – and, of course, the obvious point of contention not yet wholly resolved – he could admit that she seemed well suited to her new role. He cheered with the crowd. They watched Elvira give one last confident smile at her new guild, and then she settled into a chair on the stage.

 

David arose and addressed the crowd. “What a wonderful ceremony. I’m grateful to have been appointed to be your Deputy Guildmaster. As her former rival in the Guildmaster race, I applaud Elvira’s decision to include me in the next chapter of the Wyvern Guild – though I do wonder if she only chose me because I look like a walking history book.” Some laughs erupted from the audience. 

 

“I do know some fun secrets about Vandhoven,” the older man said. “I am pleased to pledge my decades of experience to help lead this guild. Thank you all!”

 

Marshal Jain took David’s place on the stage. “That was short and sweet. I don’t know about you all, but that’s a really good sign from the incoming leadership. Jaren sure knew how to talk.” His remark earned a few chuckles. “That will conclude the ceremony. For people who wish to stick around, the guild officers will be available to field any questions.”

 

Needing no additional cue, Lukas and his girls arose and snaked their way through the bustling crowd to the exit. Once outside, Laera had to ask the question that had been bothering her the entire ceremony. “What was with Elvira’s face? Did someone smash a pear on it or something?” Several of the girls giggled as they hastily walked down the streets towards the Mystic Forest.

 

Nearly half the day was already gone, but Lukas was anxious to journey to the caves. He wanted his next experience level. The party was greeted by a pair of rock golems in the entrance room. Gemma and Lukas sprang into action, each targeting one of the stony giants. With sheer brute force, Gemma drove her larger sword straight through the golem's core. Lukas expertly sliced his twin blades through a stony leg before lopping off its head, watching as his foe crumbled to the ground. 

 

The battle was brief and granted them a paltry amount of experience. Nonetheless, Lukas was surprised to feel a surge of warmth rise within him as he reached level ten.

 

“Just needed one more kill to get there,” he said, laughing to himself.

 

Fiona caught his undirected comment. “Did you just level up?”

 

Lukas gave her a nod. “Yeah, not quite sure what to upgrade, though. There are just so many solid options.”

 

“You should probably make your upgrade now,” Fiona suggested. “We just started the cave run. If you can’t decide, maybe go for another team stat boost.”

 

Lukas shrugged, agreeing at the very least that he shouldn’t dither. Almost reluctantly, he upgraded his Praise ability.

 

<<<

Lukas Dameron

General Class: Deviant

Main Class: Dominant

Level 10

 

Stats:

Strength: 24 + 11.2

Agility: 22.4 + 15.8

Mentality: 21.4 + 10.4

Vigor: 19.8 + 9.0

 

Skills:

Confidence (Passive) - Maxed - shrug off 50% of magical damage and effects

Obedience (Triggered) - Level 2 - able to bind others through sexual contract. Dominant will passively receive a 20% boost in the primary trait of the Obedient subject(s)

Corruption (Passive) - Maxed - earn alternative and unique Dominance experience whenever Dominant is pleasured by Obedient subject(s)

Praise (Triggered) - Level 3 - Obedient subject(s) receive a +20 boost in both Strength and Vigor for 60 seconds, the Confidence effect is doubled during this duration

Discipline (Triggered) - Level 2 - Obedient subject(s) get an additional triggered skill, extra Dominance experience can be converted to HP at an inefficient rate

Restraints (Ultimate) - Level 2 - apply 2 stuns for the duration of 1 second, stuns can be applied to multiple targets or can be stacked on one target

 

Bonded Skills:

King of the Wood Nymphs (Triggered) - Maxed - passively grants +5 to all stats, can summon assistance while in the Mystic Forest

>>>

 

The angst of committing a skill point faded away faster than he had anticipated. Lukas thanked his redheaded companion for her nonchalant wisdom with a kiss, then turned his focus back to the team.

 

The party chose a tunnel and pressed on, entering a vast chamber teeming with skeletal soldiers. Again, Gemma’s and Lukas’ combined strength proved invaluable against the army of bony fighters. With indomitable combat prowess, the Adventurers cleared the cavern and moved on. Their next challenge, however, caused Lukas to groan.

 

They entered an expansive cavern that contained numerous tall rock formations. Lukas had a feeling he knew what was lurking in the shadows, which was only confirmed when the screech of a gargoyle echoed across the cave.

 

Lucy quickly stripped off her shirt while the trio of melee fighters formed a defensive circle around their ranged contingent. Having Lucy’s duplication skill helped a lot, but it was Gwyn that ended up surprising the group. Not only was she demonstrating the accuracy of a practiced archer, but her arrows were hitting for a lot of damage as well. The flying creatures only scored a couple of wounds on the Adventurers before they were eliminated.

 

Normally, the team would go collect loot, but before they split up to search the cavern, Gwyn found herself with five pairs of eyes trained on her. “What?!” the girl with the purple hair streaks exclaimed.

 

“Did you fuck the tree lady, too?” Fiona asked, mostly teasing. “Where did this damage come from?”

 

“I’m glad you all finally noticed!” Gwyn responded. “I’ve been collecting Vigor faster than Laera’s been collecting sperm. I’ve been getting my stats up from various items and skills. My shortbow has a damage boost based on my Vigor, so now I can contribute more.”

 

“Contribute more?” Lukas chuckled. “The rest of us are going to have to go on secret cave runs at night to keep up with our healer’s damage output.”

 

Gwyn blushed. “Daddy, you’re exaggerating! Everyone on the team is such a good fighter. I’m glad to finally be able to kill things, too.”

 

“I’m sorry it took a range-based challenge for us to notice,” Lukas said. “You were amazing!”

 

“Thanks, Daddy. I wish I could do more.”

 

Lukas chuckled and reassured the small girl that all of her skills were greatly appreciated. After some more praise for Gwyn from the others, they attended to looting the cavern. They found a couple health potions stash in a chest behind a pillar of rock. The red potions were a fortuitous find so early in a cave run.

 

They entered into a tunnel on the other side of the cavern and followed it into another rocky chamber where a horde of kobolds ambushed them. The swift assault by the snarling creatures caused the archers and the mage to scramble around the chamber, neutralizing their ranged impact until the melee fighters could cut down enough beasts to form a stable front. Kobolds had never given Lukas and his girls too much trouble, but the initial ferocity of the attack had put them on their heels.

 

Lukas triggered his newly upgraded Praise ability to boost his girls. After a whirlwind of wild dodging and parrying, he and Gemma were finally able to position themselves strategically in their practiced formation, covering each other's blind spots. Still, Gemma continued to take hits, inciting her to trigger her prickly Ultimate. Fiona fared the best out of the group, stealthily sneaking through the gaps of the surging kobold army, punishing any creature within reach of her blade. She circled back to Lukas and Gemma, flanking the enemy as they attempted to surround the two tall warriors.

 

Recognizing some semblance of control had been gained over the enemy, Lucy, Gwyn, and Laera clambered behind the three stalwart fighters. They were bleeding from several cuts, but were finally able to lay down some cover fire for their embattled friends.

 

Lukas took a hit deep enough to cause him to falter and stumble back, grunting in pain. Gwyn’s quick reflexes had him healed almost instantly and ready for revenge. Lukas lunged forward, reaping destruction on the belligerent kobolds. With zealous fury, he broke through the ranks of the enemy swarm, Fiona and Gemma covered his flanks as they turned the tide of the battle.

 

The Adventurers’ blades struck with speed and power as they cleaved through the creatures. The kobold’s numbers diminished, exponentially weakening their defining advantage. It wasn't long before Lukas decapitated the last foe.

 

The group tended to their wounds and collected the loot. Despite ultimately emerging victorious, they had taken a beating. They nevertheless decided they were healthy enough to scout out the challenge ahead. Time was running short regardless. Between their late start and Elvira’s party, they would either tackle the next room and then withdraw, or retreat outright.

 

The Adventurers approached the entrance to the next chamber cautiously, showing a little more respect for the power of a surprise ambush. A single enemy awaited them in the room. Their last fight of the day would be a boss fight. 

 

Lukas strangely felt relieved as he evaluated their foe. They were once again facing a Demon Fiend. Repeated enemies were a normality in exploring the caves, but it was the team’s first time fighting a boss that they had defeated before.Beating the prior Demon Fiend hadn’t been easy, but they were measurably stronger and better prepared. Lukas and the girls knew the secret.

 

There were some differences. Instead of a massive sword, the demon wielded a pair of heavy battleaxes. Its arm muscles bulged as it held the hefty weapons high in the air, challenging anyone to come within range.

 

There were no vats of fiery coals, either. Large, cage-like lanterns hung high above their heads. Thick chains were strung to the wrought iron fixtures, and were supported by pulleys that were bolted to the cavern ceiling. The chains then extended downward and outward, where they were anchored to the rocky walls of the cave.

 

Lucy nailed a pulley with one of her arrows to no effect. Fiona’s dagger failed to separate a chain from its anchor. Knowing their success was up to them, Lukas and Gemma took off in opposite directions, building enough momentum to smash through the chains.

 

The lanterns came crashing down, and the rest of the team moved to extinguish what was left of any flames. The Demon Fiend went on the offensive, charging the nearest Adventurers. The girls knew it was pointless to engage with the creature until all the flames had been quenched, so they scurried away, keen to avoid the unyielding swings of the weighty axes.

 

After dodging several assaults from the boss, the Adventurers were ready to begin their own as the last flame was stifled. The demon was chasing after Fiona, giving Lukas and Gemma the opening they needed. The two warriors blitzed the distracted fiend from behind, striking it in the back. The battleaxes swung around to meet the new threat, but Lukas hit the boss with his Ultimate. No longer in a retreat, Fiona joined in, and the three slashed away with punishing dexterity.

 

Seeing the brawl kick off, the other three Adventurers circled around, each one positioning themselves to get a clear shot at the demon. The battle proceeded smoothly until disaster struck. The normally shifty Fiona took a battleaxe squarely to her core, flinging her across the cave. Gwyn sent a heal her way, and a pained groan let them know she had survived, but the assassin was out of the fight.

 

Lukas let out a roar, boosting his Strength in an attempt to compensate for the missing ally. The brutal fight dragged on until Lukas found an alternative strategy. With the missing melee fighter, Lukas and Gemma spread out, flanking the boss on opposite sides. This gave the archers a more advantageous perpendicular angle to wreak their devastation. Lukas and Gemma stopped worrying about scoring hits on the enemy,and instead focused on defense and containment. That left the fiend vulnerable to the adept Lucy and surprisingly deadly Gwyn.

 

Laera had run out of mana. She evaluated the scene and, being optimistic about the outcome, determined there was no need to waste her unique mana potions. The Anoran rushed over to the downed redhead and did her best to make her comfortable.

 

A headshot from Lucy sniped away the Demon Fiend’s last bit of HP. Immediately upon the enemy crashing to the floor, a quartet of worried friends joined Laera in a huddle around Fiona. Fiona started grumbling and telling people to back off. “It’s not so bad,” she mumbled. “At least it was a demon boss that got the hit on me and not the kobolds. I’m not as embarrassed as Lukas should be.”

 

Lukas chuckled as he backed away. “Alright, she’ll be fine.”

 

Fiona rested with Gywn by her side while the rest of the team gathered the loot. The battleaxes were both rare items with decent combat bonuses. 

 

<<<

Battleaxes of the Tormented

Rare

 

Momentum: +10% to attack speed

Crushing Blow: grants additional damage proportional to Adventurer’s Strength stat

>>>

 

The weapons may have been enticing to an Adventurer that relied heavily on Strength, but both Lukas and Gemma felt they would be too different to their current combat style. Lukas was confident they would fetch a lucrative price back in Vandhoven. He also discovered a belt tucked away in the dark corners of the lair. 

 

<<<
Assassin’s Belt

Uncommon

 

Agile: +1 boost to Agility

Smoke Screen (triggered): deploys a smoke screen in a small radius around the wearer that only the wearer can see through

>>>

 

The stat boost wasn’t anything to get excited about, but the added Smoke Screen ability piqued his interest. He knew Fiona would like to try it out, though she was in no mood to be putting on an extra piece of equipment just then. She was, however, finally able to stand on her own two feet,so the team began the laborious process of retracing their steps.

 

They’d made it through the tunnels to the cave entrance before Lukas noticed they were moving slowly and weren’t getting faster. He gave Fiona a sympathetic look, then decided to pick her up and hold her in his arms. Fiona vehemently protested for a couple minutes, but then accepted the situation, snuggling into Lukas’ chest as he carried her through the Mystic Forest.

 

Arriving back at the mansion, the team of young Adventurers were immediately greeted by a tantalizing aroma that wafted towards the front door. They discovered Elvira bustling about the kitchen, putting the finishing touches on an array of exquisite hors d'oeuvres.

 

The elven hostess glanced up and threw her hands in the air. “Finally! The party starts at the top of the hour, and you all were nearly late! What took you so long?” She noticed the haggard look on the redhead’s face. “What happened to her?”

 

Gemma let the two heavy axes crash to the ground. “Try getting hit by a demon who swings two of these. That’ll put a damper on your day.”

 

Elvira’s eyes widened. “Yet another reason I prefer a ranged role. Can you…”She pointed to the bulky weapons on the floor. “...pick those up?” Gemma sneered as she hoisted the battleaxes and carried them to her room. Fiona also retired to her room, craving a soft bed to rest on.

 

Contrary to Elvira’s urgency, they had twenty minutes until the party started, and even then, who actually shows up to a party on time?

 

The Anoran host resumed her preparations, her nimble fingers deftly arranging the platters of carefully crafted delicacies. “Do you need any help?” Lukas asked.

 

Elvira waved her hand dismissively, but smiled. “Thank you, Lukas, but I’ve got this covered. Just make sure the rest of the team looks presentable. You all are a reflection of me tonight.”

 

“So no orgies tonight?” he asked while winking at her.

 

Elvira gasped in shock, but composed herself quickly. “No way! You have no idea what Fiona already put me through this morning.”

 

“I have some idea,” Lukas assured her. The Anoran blushed and went back to setting up her party, praying that the tall Dominant wasn’t going to use the party to humiliate her with his last task.

 

Lukas settled onto the sofa next to Gwyn, engaging in conversation about her travels prior to their quaint encounter in Fernin. Gwyn's eyes sparkled with a mix of excitement and nostalgia as she began to share her tales. She spoke of serene vistas she had encountered on the winding roads through the countryside. She described the small towns, each with its unique charm, where time seemed to flow at a gentler pace.

 

Yet, as she spoke, a shadow flickered across her expression. Beneath the vibrant imagery of her adventures lay a sense of vulnerability – an ache that was hard to ignore. “I’m truly grateful I found you when I did,” Gwyn said softly, her gaze drifting somewhere far away. “I told myself I was searching for my Dominant, but maybe I was really just avoiding the idea of being an Adventurer. Ever since…” She hesitated, her voice trailing off momentarily as she collected her thoughts. “I’m just glad I found you and became part of your team. You’re the one who embodies the spirit of a true Adventurer.”

“True Adventurer?” Lukas said with a puzzled look. “We’ve got the best support in all of Vandhoven, and please, don’t make me bring up your incredible archery skills. You’re as fierce as any of us out there.”

 

“Thanks, Daddy,” Gwyn teased playfully, wrapping him in a warm hug, her lighthearted tone momentarily lifting the weight in the air. Yet, beneath the surface, Lukas could still feel a lingering unease, a sense that there was something unresolved in their exchange. He searched for the right words, trying to untangle the threads of doubt that wove through their conversation, but he couldn't quite pinpoint what troubled her so deeply.

 

As the clock struck seven, guests started to arrive, ending their relative solitude. The Treasurer of the Wyvern Guild walked in promptly at the hour. Lukas approached him, genuinely curious about his responsibilities. Gwyn snuck away to put on her party dress before Elvira made a fuss.

 

“There’s all the dry stuff,” the short, balding man explained. “Accounting, budgeting, reporting, stuff like that. I personally don’t mind it, but it doesn’t make for very good party conversation.”

 

Lukas chuckled politely. 

 

“A lot of people don’t realize the more unique duties I fulfill. For example, I engage with the local economy here in Vandhoven. I foster relationships with the business owners, getting discounts for guild members. I make sure that there’s healthy competition and a variety of options in town. I like to think that even though it’s primarily for the guild’s benefit, it helps everyone – though of course the merchants trying to fix their prices higher would surely disagree.”

 

“I would have never known,” Lukas commented. “Have you heard about the experience scroll over at Boris’ Emporium? The one he is trying to sell for one hundred thousand gold?”

 

“Oh, don’t even get me started,” the Treasurer remarked. “He’s already lowered the price to eighty thousand, but that is still an exorbitant amount. Maybe over at the Pegasus Guild he could get away with it. There’s a lot of capital brats that come in with their parents' money and have no respect for how they spend it. Even the Anorans, who could likewise afford it, prefer the dignity of hard-earned experience.” Sensing a potential faux pas, the man raised up a hand. “Not that I have anything against experience scrolls. It’s just better if the Adventurer’s know how to use the levels in real life.”

 

David, the recently appointed Deputy Guildmaster, arrived at the party a few moments later. After greeting Elvira, he joined their conversation. “Pleasure seeing you here, Stanley,” he said. “I assume you showed up exactly on time?”

 

“You know me too well,” the Treasurer said. 

 

Just then, Gemma emerged from the hallway with her red dress on. Several eyes, including Lukas’, appraised the stunning brunette. Damn, she looks good, Lukas thought to himself.

 

Gemma noticed Lukas eye-fucking her and smirked. She leaned over and whispered in his ear. “I’m not wearing panties, just like the last time I wore this.”

 

“Jaren!” a loud exclamation came from the entry, interrupting Lukas’ wet dream. “I didn’t know if you would be able to make it.” Elvira greeted her new guest with a formal but friendly hug.

 

The tall man let out a short, but hearty laugh. “The capital lets me out of my cage every once in a while.” 

 

Jaren stood at nearly six and a half feet tall, his imposing figure a mix of power and bulk,with a commanding presence that only drew more attention. His physique was an intriguing blend of muscle and softness. Broad shoulders tapered down to a sturdy chest, presenting strength borne of past adventures and a lifestyle once dedicated to the rigors of adventuring. His arms were muscular, with veins that danced under the surface, while his midsection, softened by time and indulgences, hinted at a man who has swapped the demands of physical exertion for the pleasures of governance and management.

 

“I’m glad you could make it,” Elvira said.

 

“I always knew you would become a future leader of the Wyvern Guild,” Jaren said. “I have to admit, though, I didn’t think it would be this soon.”

 

“When the capital stole you away from the guild,” Elvira replied, “I knew that was my chance.”

 

Jaren moseyed on over to Lukas’ seated group. “David! Nice to see you here. I see you let the youngster beat you out.”

 

“Yeah, it was a close one,” David replied, “but she brought reinforcements. Have you met Lukas? He’s teamed up with Elvira’s younger sister. They showed up right before the election.”

 

“Oh, so this is Lukas?” Jaren extended his hand to the younger Adventurer, who equaled his height. Lukas shook it and smiled. Jaren gave him a nod of respect. “The dragonslayers of Eberlorn have come to the Wyvern Guild? That’s some good recruiting. Perhaps her election victory is well-deserved.”

 

“She definitely put in the effort,” David admitted, glancing at Lukas with a fresh perspective, “but it was so damn close. I’m going to get a free drink out of these guys. I’ll get them to swing to my side for the next election – although perhaps that means I should pay for the drinks.” 

 

“Next election?” the newer guest teased. “What makes you think you’ll live that long?” Both men laughed. “You should be enjoying time with your grandkids. Politics makes you age way too fast. Hell, this tournament director position is going to send me straight to an early grave.”

 

“I would get so bored with retirement,” David responded, “but maybe this is my fate: advise the next generation of leaders and then step away. I was very pleased when Elvira chose me as the Deputy Guildmaster. Not to sound presumptuous, but it was a very wise decision. She needs someone with experience to compliment her freshly sprouting career.”

 

The Treasurer chimed in. “I’m excited to see how it goes. There’s a raw energy that she brings that us old men just can’t bring to muster anymore.”

 

“Watch who you call old, Stanley,” Jaren bellowed out with a roaring laugh.

 

“How are the tournament preparations going?” David asked the former Guildmaster. Lukas’ ears perked up at that.

“Don’t get me in trouble,” Jaren said in a serious tone, despite the smirk on his face. “You know I can’t give up any secrets. It is going well, though. I was a little worried about the Phoenix Guild, but it looks like they’ve selected a couple of competitive teams. Speaking of which, when am I going to get Wyvern’s selections? You all are the last ones. Even Trident Harbor has their teams set.”

 

“Where’s Trident Harbor?” a curious Lukas queried.

 

“It’s a coastal city on the other side of the capital,” Jaren answered. “A lot of trade flows through there, granting it significant influence, hence why they get to send their own two teams. Their process for picking teams is bizarre, and usually takes the longest, but the Wyvern Guild has them beat this year.”

 

“Our Guildmaster was just inaugurated today,” David said with a chuckle. “I’m sure that’ll be the first item of business. I already have a list of potential teams; the process should be quick.”

 

“Is Horvoth’s team on that list?” Jaren questioned. “I all but promised them they would be selected before I left.”

 

David nodded. “At the very top of the list.”

 

Gwyn reappeared in her dress, and by her side was Fiona. After some rest and additional healing, the redhead was able to make an appearance at the party. She’d regained her strength and was even back to cracking her jokes; such was the power of healing magic and time, no matter how severe the injury.

 

Lukas wanted to hear more about the tournament, but the gentlemen were wrapping up their conversation regardless. He decided to go check on Fiona, as did Elvira.

 

“I’m glad you're recovering,” Elvira said sincerely. “It is always scary when us squishier Adventurers take a hit like that.”

 

Fiona frowned initially, but then decided the elf wasn’t making a jab. “Speaking of recovering,” the assassin said, a hint of a smile on her face, “I must give credit where credit is due, Anoran. Your own recovery this morning was impressive.”

 

David happened to be eavesdropping on that comment. “Recovery? Elvira, are you feeling alright? You did look a little bit off this morning.”

 

“Nothing to worry about,” the elf assured the Deputy Guildmaster. “I’ve just had a lot on my plate. I’m learning to multitask.” She gave Lukas a wink.

 

Lukas sampled some stuffed mushrooms that were available on a polished silver platter and looked around at the guests. He met some new people, including the Horvoth he had just heard about. 

 

Trixie popped in from Boris’ Emporium. Her father covered for her so she could give her well wishes to the new Guildmaster. She hungrily snacked on the seafood canapes with Lukas before Stanley tracked her down and started talking business.

 

Freya and Gareth showed up to the party with their new team. Lukas’ interest was piqued, and he crossed the room full of people to meet the four Adventurers that had taken in the two elves. In addition to Freya’s bow and Gareth’s magic, the team had a tank, a berserker, an assassin, and a healer. The team’s composition wasn’t out of the ordinary, with one exception: none of the other team members were Anorans.

 

After catching up with Freya, Lukas wandered over the Elvira. “I like Freya’s new team. How did they feel about not being on an Anoran team?”

 

“They specifically requested it,” Elvira said. “I think that they were inspired after witnessing another team absolutely kick ass. Times are changing.”

 

The real surprise came when a pair of Scribes walked in. “Cassian!” Lukas exclaimed.

 

“Lukas!” Cassian called as he approached, his eyes sparking with enthusiasm. Following closely was Monique, whose evening dress showed off her exquisite beauty.

 

“I didn’t expect to see you here,” Lukas said, grinning widely.

 

“A new Guildmaster in the Wyvern Guild is a new opportunity for the Phoenix Guild.”

 

“And I’ve come to see an old friend,” Monique added. “Elvira, darling, how did you manage to get elected Guildmaster? It seems like just yesterday you were being Scribed.” The Anoran host embraced the Scribe in a warm hug.

 

Lukas' jaw dropped. “What?!”

 

Elvira snickered. “What? Do you think I’m incapable of having friends? Monique, how do you know Lukas?”

 

“His team stopped by Stormpyre and helped clean up a bit,” Monique explained.

 

“You’re in Stormpyre now?” Elvira said. “Lukas, why didn’t you tell me?”

 

“How would I know to tell you?” Lukas retorted. “You’re the one that said the extra two hours would be too much of an inconvenience,”

 

“Nonsense,” Elvira huffed, brushing off the comment with a wave of her hand. “I would never say such a thing.”

 

Lukas gave her a stern look, sincerely hoping to see a better side from Elvira. Elvira frowned slightly under Lukas’ gaze.

 

“Fine!” she said. “I was eager to get back to Vandhoven.” Lukas gave her nod, then she turned back to Monique. “But if I knew you were in Stormpyre, I would’ve surely stopped by. Come, Monique, it seems we have much to catch up on.”

 

Lukas turned to Cassian, curiosity etched across his face. “How do they know each other?”

 

Cassian shrugged casually. “From what Monique has shared, Elvira has always been a beacon of kindness for half-blood Anorans. While many treat them poorly, she embraces them, fostering a whole network of half-Anoran friends. Monique speaks very highly of her.”

 

“Are we talking about the same Elvira?” Lukas asked, surprise evident in his tone.

 

“My young Lukas,” Cassian replied, his voice gentle yet firm, “you are a Deviant with vast amounts of potential that’s just beginning to awaken. Even if you choose not to engage in the political arena, you will inevitably emerge as a powerful leader. You must learn to understand people at a deeper level. You must see what is not visible. Discover what is carefully guarded. Ask yourself, why are Elvira’s parents not here on arguably the most important day of her life?”

 

Something clicked inside Lukas’ mind, though not exactly what Cassian had been aiming for. He sought out the party host, finding her deep in conversation. “Pardon the interruption,” Lukas said. “Could I speak with Monique for just a moment?”

 

Elvira gave him a stare. “If you take more than a minute, you lose your task.”

 

“What task?” Monique asked.

 

“Nothing,” Elvira said, her breezy politesse faltering a bit. She quickly walked away to greet more guests.

 

“I’m intrigued by what prompted you to steal me away from the woman of the night?” Monique inquired.

“I really thought there would be music by now,” Lukas said with a nervous smile. “I was hoping to steal you away for the first dance.” 

 

Monique let out a cute giggle. Though more than a decade his senior, she was charmed by the young man – though not quite charmed enough to actually believe him.. “Stop being a flirt and tell me.”

 

Lukas took a deep breath. “I was hoping before you returned to your duties in Stormpyre that you could find some time to talk with Gwyn. I think it’s time that you two had a private and candid conversation.” 

 

Her eyes widened at his request. She opened her mouth and then closed it. She spent several moments studying Lukas – long enough for him to be concerned about Elvira’s threat of revoking the final task. Finally, Monique answered. “Yes, I think you are right.”

 

***

 

It was late at night before the last guests left the party. Gwyn had returned from a chat with Monique. Her eyes were ever so slightly puffy, but she had a bright smile on her face. She and Lukas raided the kitchen, finishing off the remaining seafood canapes. They shared a look, both savoring the smoked salmon topping. “This food is fantastic,” the half-elf said.

 

“Yeah,” Lukas admitted. “Elvira really stepped it up, but a lot of credit goes to her teacher.”

 

“Thanks, Daddy,” Gwyn replied, and then motioned for the amateur blonde chef to join them. Elvira walked over with her younger sister. “Well done on the party, Elvira – especially this food. Your cooking was top notch tonight. Congratulations on completing another task.”

 

Laera softly clapped her hands, applauding her older sister, while Gemma strode over to the group, hearing something about food. “Damn! Did you eat all of those fish things?”

 

Fiona walked over and joined them with Lucy closely behind. “I call dibs on the rest of the stuffed mushrooms!” the redhead declared.

 

Elvira beamed with pride. “I didn’t hate learning how to cook. I could be convinced to make food again. I definitely am not cleaning any more dishes though.” She turned to Lukas. “Speaking of completing tasks, I believe I only have one more. How long are you going to hold it over me?”

 

“I’ve been saving it for this exact moment,” Lukas said with a calculated smile.

 

“Oh, really?” she questioned in a playful tone. “I’m more curious than scared at this point.”

 

“For your final task,” Lukas announced to Elvira, with his girls listening intently, “I want you to use your political position to select us for the Tournament of Immortal Heroes.”