An Erinyes's sight pierced darkness, however deep; saw through magic, no matter how concealing; and distant things were clear to them, as if they were birds of prey. In the armies of Hell, those qualities made them scouts and winged hunters, and they also served as consorts. Rarely, an Erinyes distinguished herself through cleverness or guile, and rose to the rank of a commander or noble. Such was the case with Contessa Megaera, who had earned the favor of the infernal regent of Cheliax, General Gorthoklek, and been twice promoted.<br/><br/>Eyes that saw everything fell upon each of her advisors as they entered, and each dropped their gaze before she did. Noravia, loyal almost to a fault, did so out of respect. Morvious, loyal to his own ambition, because it was required. And Livia, youngest of them all and untried, seemed apprehensive. As well she might in the presence of a devil, a Hellknight whose task was to enforce cruel Chelaxian laws, and an Inquisitor alert for any disloyalty to the queen or to Asmodeus.<br/><br/>A hint of a smile came to her lips as she studied the raven-haired sorceress. She made a note to try Livia, later. Megaera's passions ran highest after bloodshed, and there had not been nearly enough of that in recent days. Who can I start a battle with, and quickly, she mused.<br/><br/>Regretfully, there was other business to attend to. "Late, but I am in a generous mood today. Rise and take your seat, scholar," she instructed in her rich, commanding voice.<br/><br/>But before Livia could move, a figure appeared in the doorway and advanced to stand beside her. A voluminous grey cloak covered his shoulders and swept the floor, and beneath that he wore a green doublet, ruffled white shirt, and sky blue pants. Bright and colorful clothing that seemed to mock the red and black the others favored. His brown hair was artfully styled, his eyes were hazel, and his skin bronzed. There was a soft rustle as he made an elegant bow.<br/><br/>"Kalchas." Megaera addressed the last of her council, the spymaster. Originally from Taldor, he had been banished from his homeland on account of conspiracy and murder, and had since cultivated a network of spies, both within Taldor and without. Megaera had requested he join the expedition; who better to spy on the Taldan camp than him.<br/><br/>"Forgive my lateness but I bring interesting news, Contessa," Kalchas said. He threw back his cloak as he straightened, and as he did his hand ran along Livia's bare thigh, lingering a moment. He regarded her from the corner of his eye. "You look- no, feel, well, Livia," he added in a softer, smug tone.<br/>