Brizlyn smiled, and nodded, though remained quiet, for now, moving to stand at Finexia's side.<br/><br/>The woman in white knelt before Finexia. "I am Haele Elvthara, eldest unmarried daughter of House Elvthara, largest and most powerful House of my people. We have heard of your successes, and seen evidence of your power, and the elders have discussed the terms of your offer. As such, I am here to offer myself to you, as a<em>di'thang verne'</em>, and to offer these soldiers into your service, as a dowry, as part of that arrangement."<br/><br/>Finexia would catch both the literal translation of the words - Slave-wife - and the social connotation; Haele is offering herself to Finexia, as a form of vassalage for her House; Finexia would be obligated to aid them, and they her, but she would have no direct claim to eventually lay claim to the House. Haele, herself, would lose virtually all status, and would dutifully serve Finexia, though any children from the two of them would ahve claim to Finexia's rule. This is generally done by those in a weaker position, to gain the benefits of a relationship with a stronger party, without the risk of being consumed by them.<br/><br/>Of course, she could offer actual marriage to Haele, instead; Haele would be treated as a more equal partner, and they would both have claim to leadership in the other's territory, which means that Finexia would, very likely, be able to claim the Matriarch position of House Elvthara, in time; faster if she were as ruthless as the drow, and murdered her way to the top, an action they are likely trying to prevent, with their offer. It would be seen as a power play, on her part, and increase the drow's fear of her.