Set a Thief [Lilias & Will1984]
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Human Solos =&gt; Topic started by: Lilias on 14-12-2008, 19:05:49</h2>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>14-12-2008, 19:05:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The common room buzzed with excited talk. Four of the guild-sisters had come back with the caravan they had escorted, and there was all kind of news and gossip to share. Dinner had only put a short pause to the chattering; it would surely go on much later into the night.<br><br>Marelie didn't mind the noise. She just sat in her corner, steadily putting more neat, tiny stitches in her leathers, keeping an ear on the direction of the conversations around her. She was good with needles, people said, although she didn't care to elaborate just how she had come by her skill. Still, her leatherwork, whether new or repair, was good enough to provide her with steady work and income, and the guild house had become home. Life, even in this little coastal town, was good.<br><br>She felt, more than saw, the housekeeper approach her, and she looked up, instantly noticing the bemused expression on the older woman's face. 'What's the matter, Emelie?' she asked quietly. 'Something bothering you?'<br><br>'You just did it again,' grumbled Emelie. 'Noticed the one coming for you even from afar in the crowd. It's getting spooky, child... Bah, forget it. Visitor to see you in the Strangers Room, dear. You <em>don't</em> want to make him wait.'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>15-12-2008, 15:33:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric stood in the common room of the guild, reserved for those who were not of the craft.&nbsp; He wore a heavy cloak of fine fur, with the hood pulled up over his head.&nbsp; There was no disguising that he was a wealthy, important individual, but he did hope that he could hide his face.&nbsp; It was terribly important that he not be recognized, or by as few people as possible anyways.&nbsp; Unfortunately, there was no fooling the housekeeper, who went wide-eyed with surprise upon seeing the rounded features of his face.<br><br>After he had told her of his errand and she had gone on her way, he crossed his arms and moved to one side of the room.&nbsp; It was not well-lit, probably on purpose, and he found a rather dark place to wait.&nbsp; The majority of the eyes in the room were on him, and although he was more than accustomed to such attention, this felt... different.&nbsp; Of course, he was in no real danger.&nbsp; The guards that waited outside by his carriage were ready to burst in at the first sign of a struggle.<br><br><em>I wonder if she's changed...</em>&nbsp; Hidden by the furry hood, his expression was wistful as a small smile began to cross his lips.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>15-12-2008, 15:58:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie hurried towards the Strangers Room, the only place in the all-female guild house that was not off bounds to men, wondering who might be waiting for her. Of course, she was used to doing business there, but no customer would come so late in the evening, and certainly none that would justify Emelie's warning.<br><br>The room was more crowded than usual, with the four newly arrived sisters finalising their contract, plus the watchwoman on duty. There was always someone present there, as eyewitness to whatever transaction, assuring at least superficial decency. <em>Goodness only knows what kind of house people would believe we kept otherwise!</em> <br><br>The single cowled figure in the far corner was out of place... and there was something about his stance that triggered instant, if vague, memories in Marelie, who hardly ever forgot anyone she had ever worked with, or for.<br><br>She made straight for him, ignoring the others, who were returning to their business anyway, and stopped barely a step away from him, stormy grey eyes wide. 'What are <em>you</em> doing here?'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>15-12-2008, 16:28:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric watched Marelie as she approached, looking at her thoughtfully.&nbsp; The look in her eyes nearly caught him off guard, but he quickly returned to himself and replied in a hushed voice, smirking just slightly.&nbsp; "That's quite a greeting, my lady.&nbsp; Are you displeased to see me?"&nbsp; He tilted his head dismissively.&nbsp; "No matter... I seem to have found myself in a rather dangerous situation.&nbsp; I need help."<br><br>The smirk left his face quickly as he spoke, and there was a needy look in his dark brown eyes.&nbsp; "Please.&nbsp; You know it's only fair.&nbsp; Will you hear me out?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>15-12-2008, 16:48:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie just nodded, bemused, then motioned him to sit down on the bench that skirted the far wall. They were alone now, apart from the watchwoman. She seated herself, unconsciously hugging one knee, the touch of her self-made leather breeches reassuring.<br><br>She studied his face for a long moment. Even from within the shadow of the hood, she could see his features clearly, taking her back to a brief contact, amid blood and violence, four years earlier. <em>A lifetime ago. And he has changed so much. Grown. He does authority well. At least here.</em><br><br>'Of course I will hear you out, Majesty,' she said softly. 'It must be something important that brought you out of your palace and all the way out here at this hour.'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>17-12-2008, 15:22:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her calm demeanor seemed to relax Elric considerably, and he looked intently at her as she studied him.&nbsp; She had certainly changed as well, but it was clearly more of an inward shift.&nbsp; She looked happier, more peaceful, and for a moment he almost regretted what he was going to ask her.<br><br>"Indeed, I risked my life to do so," Elric replied with a sigh, and his lips twisted thoughtfully before he continued.&nbsp; "And therein lies the issue.&nbsp; I am a target everywhere I go; someone wishes me dead.&nbsp; I know you are no mere bodyguard, however, and I expect nothing of the sort.&nbsp; I want you to find out who is plotting against me."&nbsp; Elric watched her face carefully, waiting to see some kind of reaction.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>17-12-2008, 16:45:53</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie held very still. Her features didn't even twitch. Some colour might have drained away from her face, but in that light he couldn't be sure.<br><br>'It is a long journey out here from the capital to ask for that, Majesty,' she said carefully, 'but I no longer take contracts. I'm retired. You of all people should remember.' <em>Can't I ever run far enough?</em><br><br>'Besides, what could I possibly do that your trusted spying network cannot?' That was going a bit too far; she had foiled that network more than once herself, but she couldn't resist the jab.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>17-12-2008, 18:00:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric hung his head as she answered, and nodded.&nbsp; His eyes rolled unseen, though, when she mentioned his spying network.&nbsp; "Ah, yes.&nbsp; Well.&nbsp; They are a talented group, I suppose, but I can trust no one."<br><br>He leaned in closer.&nbsp; "I am well aware of your retirement.&nbsp; My situation is dire, however, and I can reward you beyond measure.&nbsp; Please, help me?"&nbsp; Elric looked up at her again, and the light showed a desperately hopeful expression, his brown eyes wide.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>17-12-2008, 18:25:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>That boy is still there, under all the trappings of royalty,</em> thought Marelie.<br><br>'Majesty,' she said aloud, 'reward is not an issue. Honest work can pay well, when it is done well. What is there about your situation that makes it as dire as you say, more than that of your ancestors? Rulers have always caused displeasure in one or another of their subjects. If your head towers above those of others, it is a prime target for stones...'<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>19-12-2008, 00:38:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric leaned back a bit, and sighed.&nbsp; "You speak the truth, however, malice seems to approach from all sides; it prods at me from the shadows.&nbsp; I fear there is a plot against me, and I am ill-equipped for such intrigue."&nbsp; The seriousness of his look faded, and he nearly chuckled a bit.&nbsp; "And what makes my situation so dire, you ask?&nbsp; My life!&nbsp; There can be nothing more valuable to a person than his life, can there?"&nbsp; His eyes seemed to bore into hers suddenly.&nbsp; "Surely you can understand, can you not?&nbsp; Are you enjoying this peaceful retirement?&nbsp; I should hope so.&nbsp; It seems cozy here, much moreso than a prison cell... or a coffin, for that matter."&nbsp; His words were casual in contrast to his intense stare.<br><br>Breaking away from her eyes, he looked around and rubbed his thighs vigorously.&nbsp; "I suppose you'll want to think it over."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>19-12-2008, 00:54:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The only thing betraying that his words were not casual to Marelie was a slight whitening of the knuckles laced around her knee. Inside, she went cold, then relieved. When the worst that can happen does happen, there is nothing more to fear.<br><br>She had another flash of a certain bloody night, four years earlier, when the hunter had become hunted, and the bystander had stepped in. She had never looked back since. And here he was now, reminding her that there was a life between them - her own.<br><br>'Ah. So that's it. It's payback time, right?' She tried to keep the bite out of her voice, succeeding only partially. 'What took you so long?'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>19-12-2008, 01:18:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric felt a brief pang of guilt.&nbsp; He had not wanted to draw out old emotions, but she was right.&nbsp; "Payback" suited the situation quite well.<br>"I have had no need for such talents as yours, I suppose, until now.&nbsp; Please, Marelie, I am desperate.&nbsp; I cannot sleep, for fear that I will not wake.&nbsp; Every lingering look drives me to madness, every offhand chuckle and knowing smile... Please... Please, I cannot live like this!"&nbsp; Elric's voice was hushed, but the words spilled forth rapidly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>19-12-2008, 08:58:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie reached out to cover his hand with hers. 'Calm down,' she said, with reassurance she didn't feel. Dammit, she didn't want to do this, but it didn't look like she was going to have much choice. He was still young, and new to the game of rulership, for which he had not been prepared anyway. He should have a chance to face <em>that</em> challenge. <br><br>And she should have a chance to live out the rest of her life without the fear of him telling on her.<br><br>'You said you didn't want another bodyguard,' she went on. 'I agree that bringing in a stranger entrusted with your safety would only create more suspicions. Then what do you have in mind I should do?'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>21-12-2008, 17:05:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her hand on his was unexpected, but it did relax him considerably.&nbsp; "Well, I have considered that for some time, and I'm afraid we'll have to pull a ruse.&nbsp; No one need know what you are there for if, ah..."&nbsp; He trailed off, more than a little nervous about what he was going to say next.&nbsp; "If they believe you to be my mistress, that is.&nbsp; No questions will be asked."<br><br>This was an awkward situation at best, and he shifted anxiously from side to side.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>21-12-2008, 19:27:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie held very still, hoping she wasn't blushing. <br><br><em>Get a grip, dammit! It's not like you haven't done it before!<br><br>That was in another lifetime.</em><br><br>Was he trying to get <em>that</em> again, she wondered. Probably not, seeing his nervousness, but could she know?<br><br>'You know, Majesty,' she started carefully, 'if you are watched like you said, such a fiction would have to be very realistic... Are you prepared to go that far? And, more importantly, what does your queen think about it?' She decided to leave the last part, <em>Or doesn't she even know?</em> unsaid.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>23-12-2008, 17:49:38</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric nodded in acknowledgement.&nbsp; "Leave her to me.&nbsp; I suspect she isn't too on keen on the idea of her husband dying, either.&nbsp; The consequences for her would not be pleasant."&nbsp; He stole a glance at her eyes as he chose his words carefully.<br><br>How far might they have to take their ruse?&nbsp; Marelie was a lovely woman, to be sure.&nbsp; His mind had drifted back to her image on more than one occasion in the intervening years, and now she was right in front of him, within whispering distance no less.&nbsp; He took a deep breath and cleared his mind as best he could.&nbsp; "I am quite well aware of the difficulty of the illusion.&nbsp; Most assuredly, I am willing to go to whatever lengths are necessary."&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>23-12-2008, 19:45:55</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie hooked a lock of black hair behind her ear and leaned forward, her voice dropping even more, to a barely audible whisper: 'Elric, this is not four years ago. Yes, you know we'll have to sleep together for the fiction to work. I'm sure you don't mind - and dammit, I'd go with it to save my life. But you may find that your wife won't take too kindly to you bedding another woman, for whatever reason.' <em>Unless she's a complete doormat.</em><br><br>She took a deep breath and went on: 'You can't tell her. You are a man, and the realm's ruler, and nobody will criticise your decisions, at least not openly. But such a plan may save your life at the cost of any peace you might have at home...'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>28-12-2008, 01:13:23</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				The force of her words caught him off guard, and he sat still and quiet until she had finished.&nbsp; "I suppose you're right.&nbsp; A domestic squabble certainly won't help my situation in the slightest."<br><br>Elric took a deep breath and sighed, shifting and straightening in his chair.&nbsp; "Alright, that's settled then.&nbsp; At least as well as it can be.&nbsp; I know this is a prickly situation, not even considering the physical danger.&nbsp; I don't expect you to enter into it lightly, but if anyone can handle it, it is you.&nbsp; I can let you consider it, but we shall have to leave soon.&nbsp; I would like to return before daylight."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>28-12-2008, 17:00:00</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				'Of course,' chuckled Marelie, although without much mirth. 'It has to look like a nightly tryst, right?' She stood and smoothed down her tunic and breeches. 'I'll pack up while you start thinking about the story you want to serve...'<br><br><em>To catch a thief, set a thief. To catch an assassin...</em><br><br>She didn't take long to pack, and brought back her little trunk herself. That was expected, with her independence and efficiency. What was not expected was the sleek, form hugging grey travelling gown she had changed into. 'Don't look so surprised. Nobody should see me as anything else than your kept woman - not even your escort. Especially not them, rather. Shall we go?'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>28-12-2008, 17:55:06</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric stood speechless for just a moment as she walked toward him, but he managed to gather himself before too long.&nbsp; "Yes, yes of course.&nbsp; Ah, you... you look... very nice."&nbsp; What a foolish thing to say, he thought to himself.&nbsp; It wasn't as if he were actually taking her out.&nbsp; She very likely knew how enticing she was in that gown, anyway, whether he told her or not.&nbsp; "Let us go, then."&nbsp; Elric stood awkwardly for a moment, pulling his hood over his head before reaching out and putting an arm around Marelie's waist.&nbsp; His hand rested tentatively on her hip, and he led her out to the carriage where several armed guards stood waiting.<br><br>It was a covered carriage, wooden and finished, with ornate detail around the edges.&nbsp; The guard nearest the door was clearly in charge, and Elric addressed him as he helped Marelie in.&nbsp; "We must make our way with all haste.&nbsp; Dawn will be upon us soon, and I intend to be back at the palace by then."&nbsp; He didn't wait for a reply, climbing in after Marelie and shutting the wooden door behind him.&nbsp; He paused for just a moment before moving to sit next to her, and he sat silent for a moment before speaking.&nbsp; "Well, we had better get comfortable."&nbsp; Even as the words fell from his mouth he recognized how they could be misconstrued.&nbsp; "Ah, that is, it's a bit of a long ride."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>28-12-2008, 19:59:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				'Yes, it is,' said Marelie softly. 'At least it will seem much longer than the last time, when I was running.' She kept her voice low, so they wouldn't be overheard over the clatter of hooves and wheels, but he had to lean in closer to hear. Her expression was impossible to see in the near-dark. In addition, her scent was quite noticeable in such close quarters. No fragrance worn, but something that seemed to rise off her very skin.<br><br>'I have packed suitable clothes, so you don't need to actually give me anything,' she continued. 'I might have as many fine gowns as your queen, or more, because I don't have to account to anyone for what I spend my earnings on.' She chuckled softly. 'I will play my role right, Majesty. You just concentrate on yours.'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>29-12-2008, 16:51:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She was intoxicating, surely.&nbsp; As he shifted closer to listen, her words began to trail off in his mind as he breathed her in, slowly registering what she had said.&nbsp; "That will not be a problem, I assure you... "&nbsp; Elric lay a hand on her thigh, moving closer still and turning to whisper in her ear.&nbsp; "The guards may be watching."<br><br>Elric had thought about her many times since they had met and parted, idle daydreams as well as the more serious dreams of the nighttime variety.&nbsp; There was a reason she had been the first one that came to mind when he needed help.&nbsp; Still, he was ill-prepared for the reality of her here, next to him, and his mind was beginning to betray him.&nbsp; Already he wondered how far he might be able to take things, but he managed to control himself for the time being.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>29-12-2008, 18:56:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She pressed closer and turned her head to whisper into his ear: 'Always consider yourself watched. <em>Always</em>.' Her warm breath on his skin was enough to make him shiver.<br><br>Marelie could imagine he was rather nervous about the plan, even if it was his own. It wasn't easy to fake affection, and well-nigh impossible if you didn't at least like the person involved. She wasn't fond of the particular ruse herself, although she did like him enough to press herself into it. But she had no idea how much she had featured in his own mind during those years, nor how twisted their path could get to become.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>31-12-2008, 17:43:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her words in his ear made Elric's heart beat just a bit faster, and he moved in clsoer still as the carriage rolled down the country path.&nbsp; He was speechless, really, and remained silent for the remainder of their ride.<br><br>Even given the beautiful creature next to him, Elric was fairly exhausted, and had just dozed off by the time they arrived at the palace.&nbsp; The passed through the outer gate and made their way up the long path to the front door, where the cobblestone drive circled around a large fountain and then continued on to the stables.&nbsp; The driver stopped there, and a guard knocked three times loudly on the door.&nbsp; Elric awoke with a start.&nbsp; "Mm... Yes... Yes, thank you!"<br><br>Straightening his garments, he turned to look at Marelie and took her hand.&nbsp; "Shall we, my dear?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>31-12-2008, 18:08:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie herself had spent most of the drive wide awake, thinking hard. She was trying to devise her strategy for this. Who should she focus on, in order to ferret out the potential assassin and their employer as swiftly as possible? Four years before, that wouldn't have been a problem. She used to know enough - in her professional capacity - about most courtiers, even things they had no idea could be known about them. But after so long away from the capital, she had little idea who would still be around.<br><br><em>This is not going to be easy, and we don't have too much time. I hope he has the sense to give me quarters away from his wife's, at least. He will be safe in my room, but he can't stay there forever. I can play the brazen hussy and divert attention, but as soon as I stop an actual attempt, the cover will be blown.</em><br><br>At the knocking on the door, she slipped instantly into character. 'Of course, Majesty, always at your service,' she gushed, with a bit too much enthusiasm in her expression as he helped her down.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>02-01-2009, 00:00:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric smirked a little in spite of himself at her tone, but remained silent as they exited the carriage.&nbsp; He hurried inside with her and turned to speak to an attendant who waited just beyond the door.&nbsp; "We are not to be disturbed, understood?&nbsp; I will return to my quarters before daylight.&nbsp; If your mistress asks, you will tell her that I have been given urgent news, and must attend to it."<br><br>He continued on down the main hall of the palace, wide and well furnished, before turning to go up a curving flight of stairs.&nbsp; This led to a short side hallway, which led specifically to the largest guest quarters in the palace.&nbsp; "Alright then, here we are..."&nbsp; Elric coughed a bit, and continued.&nbsp; "... my dear girl.&nbsp; You will be kept here, and all your needs will be seen to.&nbsp; Come, let me help you get settled in."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>02-01-2009, 00:52:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie nodded. 'At your service, Majesty,' she repeated, more softly this time, for the benefit of the servant approaching with her trunk. Inside, she was about to burst with laughter. Elric could do patronising well, she had to give him that, although a bit more authority wouldn't hurt. He'd learn to pretend convincingly quickly enough. And she would play the 'girl' to the hilt, despite being older than him.<br><br>She waited until the servant had closed the doors behind him, not missing his little smirk - the news would go around the palace like wildfire. 'You have been very good to me so far, Majesty,' she said. 'I will do my best not to disappoint you.'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>03-01-2009, 20:07:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric glanced back down the darkened hallway, squinting and seeing no one.&nbsp; He opened the door to the room and held it for Marelie, and they stepped inside.<br><br>He shut the door behind them and slipped the lock into place, standing silently for a moment and listening.&nbsp; Finally satisfied, he exhaled and moved to lean against a nearby chair.&nbsp; The young royal was clearly exhausted.&nbsp; He turned to look at Marelie, before moving to the fireplace.&nbsp; "I suppose a bit more light would be helpful, and warmth as well."&nbsp; He kneeled down and set about starting a fire.&nbsp; "I'll stay for a bit, but I need rest.&nbsp; We can spend more time together tommorrow."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>03-01-2009, 22:18:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He looked so young and struggling beneath the weight of his own rule that Marelie couldn't help herself. She rested her hands on his shoulders as he knelt by the hearth, and ran her fingertips along the nape of his neck.<br><br>'You'd better sleep here,' she said quietly. 'By breakfast, the whole palace will know that you brought in another woman, and they will suppose what we want them to anyway. Don't break the illusion by leaving your kept woman alone immediately.' She chuckled softly. 'I'll search for peepholes tomorrow, but tonight we'd better look the part.' She was beginning to unlace her dress while still talking. 'Give me a hand with this, and I will help you with yours...'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>04-01-2009, 16:14:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her hands on his shoulders made him sigh heavily, comfortably, and his eyes slipped shut.&nbsp; When Marelie touched his neck, however, Elric's breath deepened as he rolled his head to the side.&nbsp; That had been very unexpected.<br><br>It shouldn't have been, really; he had known full well what they would have to do.&nbsp; He had even looked forward to it a bit, but now, the reality of it was something else.&nbsp; Elric wouldn't let his nerves get the best of him, though... He had learned that lesson quickly in his time as king.&nbsp; Nodding softly, he rose from his knees.&nbsp; The fire could wait; they would have no need for warmth, he decided, and the poor light would help to ease the awkward situation.&nbsp; He turned, facing her, and took hold of her waist lightly before sliding his hands up her sides to join with hers as she divested herself from her dress.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>04-01-2009, 22:41:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie hadn't been lying about her finery. The travelling dress, made of top-quality wool, slid smoothly off her shoulders and down, briefly snagging at her hips; it would have pooled around her ankles if she hadn't caught it and stepped out of it, tossing it onto the nearest armchair. The shift beneath it was even finer, a low-cut, gossamer white silk that somehow underlined her curves. In better light, it would have covered very little, and suggested much more.<br><br>Instead of taking it off, though, she moved to help him undress, the buttons and ties virtually undoing themselves beneath her fingers. Was it a caress that her fingertips ran down his chest, once free? There was no telling. 'Come to bed, Majesty,' she whispered. 'You are cold and tired, and I should not let either weigh you down.'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>05-01-2009, 19:31:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric took a deep, silent breath as her dress fell away to reveal the shift.&nbsp; It was lovely, indeed, fine silk that almost seemed liquid clinging suggestively to her lithe form.<br><br>His tired hands seemed almost redundant next to hers, and she deftly freed him from his garments, and Elric sighed and let his eyes slip shut at her touch on his bare chest.&nbsp; Nodding, he spoke quietly.&nbsp; "Yes, my girl... Thank you."&nbsp; He reached for her, and rested a hand on her waist, caressing the soft, silken curve of her hip as they moved to the bed.&nbsp; Waiting for her to climb up, he unfastened his pants and dropped them absentmindedly to the rug-covered stone floor before following after her in only his undershorts.<br><br>Elric lay next to Marelie on his side, and smiled at her sleepily, although her closeness was beginning to wake him just a bit.&nbsp; He moved in closer to her, and pressed his lips to her cheek tentatively, watching to gauge her reaction.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>05-01-2009, 23:08:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie rolled onto her side, facing him, close enough for her shift to brush against him, and slid one arm beneath his neck, encircling it and supporting it lightly. The other arm she let slide around him, resting lightly on his shoulder. Her lips curled into a smile at the kiss on her cheek, and she returned it with a light nuzzle against his neck.<br><br>'You can sleep,' she whispered against his ear, her warm breath a caress against his skin. 'It won't look suspicious... Unless that's not what you really want to do now...'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>06-01-2009, 15:57:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric's eyes grew brighter for a moment, deep with conflict.&nbsp; Such a beautiful woman, lying with him... Could he pass up the chance?&nbsp; His eyelids drooped, though, and he let his head rest against her arm.&nbsp; "I... not now, Marelie."&nbsp; Nestling in close, he let his eyes slip shut as he breathed her in, and he dozed off quickly there, uncovered.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>06-01-2009, 16:17:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie smiled to herself. He looked so boyish, she had to stop herself from ruffling his hair. Instead, she pulled the heavy quilt tighter around them both and let his head rest on her shoulder, so lightly that his breath didn't even catch.<br><br>She remained awake for some time, listening and accustoming herself with the soft sounds that night in such a big place carried; the occasional creaking door, scurrying mouse, gust of wind between shutters, night guard footfalls. Then, eventually, in the last dark before dawn, the drowsiness of warmth crept over her as well and she slept, cuddled against him, her face not betraying the slightest care.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>09-01-2009, 15:24:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric stirred gradually, fresh morning sunlight streaming in through the narrow windows.&nbsp; It took him a moment to realize where he was, not to mention who he was with.&nbsp; He had rolled away from Marelie at some point during their sleep, and he turned to look at her for a moment before flopping back down on the pillow.&nbsp; <br><br>Beretha was not going to be happy.&nbsp; The servants had certainly delivered his message that he would be back by morning, and Elric was not looking forward to having to explain himself to her.&nbsp; What time was it?&nbsp; He had no idea.&nbsp; The room was east facing, however, so it was still a bit before noon, at least.&nbsp; He stretched, trying to remain fairly quiet for the time being, and slipped out of bed to gather his clothes.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>09-01-2009, 16:20:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her reflexes had not yet rusted, although they could do with some more honing, thought Marelie. In her working days, she would have woken instantly at his first stirring. This time it took the weight shift as he slipped out of bed to rouse her. She sat up, blinked sleep out of her eyes, and took in the situation in barely a moment.<br><br>'I hoped we would be up early, so you could act as if nothing were out of the ordinary,' she said softly. 'It must be mid-morning. What do you plan to do?'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>13-01-2009, 22:18:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her voice startled him just a little, but Elric did his best to hide it.&nbsp; "What do I plan to do?&nbsp; I don't suppose I have many options."&nbsp; He spoke as he slipped on his boots, taking hs cloak from where it lay and draping it around him, leaving the hood off for the time being.&nbsp; "I'll call upon you soon, my dear girl.&nbsp; For now, the wife awaits."&nbsp; He walked over to the bed and leaned in, kissing her softly on the lips with no small amount of awkwardness.<br><br>He turned sharply, doing his best to take on the royalty that had been laid on him, and opened the door before turning back to her and speaking in a low voice.&nbsp; "... And thank you, for your company."&nbsp; With that he was gone, pulling the door shut behind him.&nbsp; His footsteps could be heard down the narrow hall for some time before they trailed off into silence.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>13-01-2009, 23:41:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie virtually jumped out of bed. She was not going to be confined in her quarters; there was a lot of work to be done. She dressed quickly, in a light day dress that would make her indistinguishable from any of the minor noblewomen who swarmed the palace, as attendants to those higher up or as simple guests.<br><br><em>I must remind Elric to refer to me only as an 'honoured guest'. Let them suppose what they will suppose, but not say the word and have to explain it.</em><br><br>A thorough search about the room revealed, incredibly, only one peep-hole, but one with a very good view of the bed. Marelie smirked; there would have to be a performance before the hole could be 'discovered' and dealt with. One secret passageway, behind a tapestry, that she knew led to the royal apartments. Obviously these rooms had housed 'honoured guests' in the past as well.<br><br>Once done, she threw a wrap about her shoulders, half-obscuring her face as well, and went out to find Elric. The night people who had seen her would not be about again already, and she needed to scout the place before everyone knew her face. <em>I just hope he's done with the wife, because there's no excuse for a stranger to barge into her quarters...</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>15-01-2009, 17:37:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric walked quickly down the corridor away from Marelie's quarters, the odd servant or maid the only people he saw until he reached the stairs.&nbsp; A man and a woman stood there, discussing something quietly, and Elric's eyes narrowed as he strained to hear.&nbsp; They were both very official-looking, fine garments betraying their position as courtiers.&nbsp; The man said something under his breath, and the pair erupted into laughter.&nbsp; Elric quirked an eyebrow at their display, and cleared his throat as he approached.&nbsp; <br><br>"Good morning.&nbsp; I must say, it is lovely to see you, Alane."&nbsp; He greeted the woman sweetly, taking her hand and kissing it in a gentlemanly fashion.&nbsp; She was quite comely, long blonde hair held out of her face by a thin silvery headband.&nbsp; Her dress was a wispy, delicate looking thing, but she held herself with a grace that was very much forced.&nbsp; She glanced toward Elric with a surprised look, as though she had been caught, and was speechless for the moment.<br><br>"And you, Darian."&nbsp; He held out his hand to the man, who nodded and returned the gesture.<br>"As always, my liege.&nbsp; I trust you slept well?"&nbsp; The man was known for his boldness, but this was bordering on inappropriate, even for him.&nbsp; Elric smirked for a moment, and spoke.<br>"I slept quite well, thank you.&nbsp; I decided to try the guest quarters for myself, to make certain that they are of superior quality.&nbsp; I brought along a trusted servant to assist me in the task, of course.&nbsp; A third party is so invaluable in such situations."&nbsp; The sarcasm dripped from his words, and Elric looked him in the eye as he spoke, before chuckling.<br><br>"Well.&nbsp; I must be off.&nbsp; There is much to be done, and I'm afraid I have overslept.&nbsp; Good day to you both."&nbsp; He moved brusquely past them, and headed down the curving stairs with a rapid step.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>16-01-2009, 12:47:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie went along, her pace leisurely, her expression demure. She had been to the palace several times, both in her old professional capacity and for entertainment purposes, and the layout was familiar - certainly a familiarity that was coming back with each step. She had always been good at memorising locations. That was what had saved her skin in the end, on that bloody night four years before...<br><br>The doors to the audience chamber were open, and the room itself was milling with people. They didn't look too impatient, so Elric was not running very late yet. Good. She resolved to stick around and observe the courtiers who chose to attend; there were petitioners enough to ensure that her turn would not come on that day. As she expected, nobody paid attention to her; apart from a cursory glance from the guards, she might well have been invisible.<br><br>Attending the gathering was all well and good, but she still had to find Elric and make sure he would get to arrive at all. So she slid unobserved out through a side door, to avoid drawing the attention of the guards at the main door, and headed back. That hidden passage to the royal apartments was going to be useful already.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>21-01-2009, 21:37:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric stood at the entrance to the royal chambers, hesitating.&nbsp; This was not going to be enjoyable.&nbsp; There was no way around it, however, and he pushed open the doors, entering the sitting are and glancing about.&nbsp; Beretha wasn't there.&nbsp; It was doubtful that she was still in bed, but if she was, then things were certainly going to be rocky.&nbsp; Shrugging off his heavy robe, he laid it over his arm as he entered the bedchamber, and draped it over the dresser next to the threshold.<br><br>Beretha was indeed in bed, and her face was severe.&nbsp; "Well, my husband, how good of you to join me.&nbsp; I had been told you would be returning before dawn.&nbsp; I suppose you spent the night carousing?&nbsp; You certainly look the part."&nbsp; Elric stood silently and let her say her piece, running a hand over his cheek.&nbsp; He was indeed a bit scruffy, and his lack of sleep showed in his eyes.&nbsp; He decided she could have made worse assumptions, and ran with it.<br>"Yes, my dear.&nbsp; I'm terribly sorry.&nbsp; I had a fair bit to drink and fell asleep in the carriage.&nbsp; The guards say they had to carry me to the guest quarters.&nbsp; I asked them not to mention it, but... I can't lie to you.&nbsp; Forgive me?"&nbsp; He looked at her sweetly, a slight smile growing on his young face, and she nodded slowly.&nbsp; <br>"I suppose so, yes.&nbsp; I will insist that you make it up to me, of course."&nbsp; She drew aside the thick bedcovers and slid off of the bed.&nbsp; "Now, I must dress.&nbsp; We will be expected at court soon, and you should really do something about your appearance."<br>"Very well, my dear."&nbsp; He turned and left the bedchamber, and she pulled the silk cord that descended from the ceiling, summoning her servants to bring her fresh clothes for the day.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>26-01-2009, 11:46:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The secret passage to the royal apartments branched in two after a while, one end undoubtedly leading to the king's private chambers and the other to the queen's. The first end Marelie tried gave her a peek of Elric's room, immaculate, which made sense, since it had not been slept in that night. She retraced her step and took the other end to Beretha's room, and reached the observation point, a little cut in the wooden panelling, just in time to hear Elric's final words and his wife's grudging acceptance.<br><br><em>She's not going to like it, but it will be out of wounded pride, not love.</em> Marelie wasn't sure if that would make things any easier. But it would not be for long, she reminded herself. Only until she had ferreted out the would-be assassin. <em>Which means I can't be assigned to her household. I have to be around Elric at all times, and she wouldn't let me move a step away from her.</em><br><br>As the couple separated again and went off to freshen up for the day, Marelie retreated to her quarters, which had already been tidied, and then out into the open. She hovered about, looking inconsequential, until Elric came out, to make sure he saw her, then she turned and headed to the audience chamber again, a few steps behind him, before doing her trademark sidestepping trick to enter the room itself before him. Just as well, because the doors were closed behind him and nobody else would be admitted. She sat demurely in a corner and listened carefully, watching around for familiar faces. There were several, and not all where she would expect to see them.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>27-01-2009, 18:27:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric plopped down on the throne with a heavy sigh, straightening his robe and pulling it closer to him.&nbsp; So many petitioners today... It made him nervous, and he was still so very tired.&nbsp; Glancing over toward his wife, he had to fight to keep from rolling his eyes.&nbsp; She looked as though she were posing for a portrait, enamored with her own stately grace as she smiled at the orderly crowd before them.<br><br>The usual array of courtiers and high ranking soldiers stood nearby, watching and whispering amongst themselves.&nbsp; An older man approached the throne from the side, in a long robe, red with shimmering orange trim, his white hair long enough to pass his shoulders, and spoke to Elric directly.&nbsp; "My lord, your subjects seem particularly restless today.&nbsp; Are you ready to begin?"<br><br>Elric nodded reluctantly.&nbsp; "Yes, Dhar.&nbsp; Who is first?"&nbsp; Dhar stepped away a bit, and gestured toward the man at the head of the queue.<br>"I believe you know him, sire.&nbsp; His name is Jonal.&nbsp; The wolves, I believe."<br>"Very well then, speak good sir.&nbsp; You do seem rather familiar."<br><br>The man stepped forward and nodded, bowing slightly.&nbsp; "Thank you, your majesty.&nbsp; The wolves, yes, they torment us.&nbsp; Our livestock have no hope against them, and just the other day a child was attacked.&nbsp; It was only twilight, not even dark!&nbsp; They grow hungrier with every passing day.&nbsp; I'm afraid some foul magic drives them from the wood, but even if not, something must be done, please!"<br><br>Elric nodded solemnly, his face growing pained.&nbsp; "A child... I understand.&nbsp; I will assign a patrol to the area, as soon as possible."<br>"Thank you, your majesty," Jonal said quietly, bowing again, and stepped aside before being led away by a guard.&nbsp; Elric looked over the remaining petitioners... The line seemed to stretch on for a hundred yards in the long hall.&nbsp; He sighed once more, and sank back into his seat.&nbsp; It was going to be a long day.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>29-01-2009, 23:50:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie listened to the auditions with one ear, the other poised to catch any snippet of gossip around her. Sitting at the far end of the room, the people there wouldn't be too concerned with looking dignified. She wasn't disappointed; and she had to admit that, without the gossip, she wouldn't have recognised some of the faces at the top end.<br><br>There was Dima, the late king's bastard son, raised to the council of advisors now. Well, he had been acknowledged, and he did well to keep on his half-brother's good side. Obviously his advice had been sound so far. But that didn't change the fact that he was next in line for the throne now. <em>How far would he go to make sure of that?</em><br><br>On the other side was the Archchancellor, Baron Nivali - the queen's father. One would think the smug expression would have faded from his face by now, but no; it seemed permanently fused to his features, looking down at everyone who didn't get his good fortune through his daughter's unexpectedly advantageous match.<br><br>By his side sat Oda, Beretha's older sister. Plain at best, she was not improved by the sourness added to her expression. There was obviously someone who did not rejoice in her sister's good fortune. Widowed by now, at least she wore her black well. Still, one could see plainly that she felt her nose rubbed in every time she had to attend, especially given Beretha's studied poise. <em>Would she try to visit her own fate on her sister?</em><br><br>Elric was not surrounded by an exactly supporting family, and Marelie felt sorry for him. It was lonely at the top, for certain, but this was more than necessary. She crossed her arms, the familiar feel of the knives up her sleeves reassuring, and listened on.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>30-01-2009, 17:32:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric could scarcely even concentrate on the discussions at hand.&nbsp; There were so many people around him; it made him nervous.&nbsp; It was an unfortunate consequence of the threats on his life, and even if he lived to be a hundred he didn't think he would ever feel comfortable around so many again.&nbsp; As the day dragged on the petitioners came and went, servants milling about nearby, and the courtiers carried on their clandestine conversations... It was slowly driving him mad, wondering who was talking about him, and why, and his eyes began to dart around the hall as he steadily lost focus on the task at hand.<br><br>Finally it was over, and everyone stood as Elric and Beretha were led out.&nbsp; He looked around carefully one last time, but was still unable to pick out Marelie, and his brow furrowed a little as he frowned.&nbsp; Surely she would be close by, he knew.&nbsp; She was a professional, after all.&nbsp; Or she had been.&nbsp; In any case, she knew what she was doing.&nbsp; Still, he did his best to maintain a safe distance from most everyone, sticking close to Beretha.&nbsp; If anyone had incentive for Elric to live, it was surely her.&nbsp; Dima would never marry her, and thusly she would be stripped of her all-important status as queen.&nbsp; Elric knew that well, and so he clung to her like a newlywed as they passed from the hall and headed to their respective chambers.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>03-02-2009, 12:21:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Beretha, despite her poise, looked rather pale and drawn, as if she hadn't slept well, and not just that night. Marelie made a mental note on that. She was still trying to figure out if the queen was a potential target as well. From what she had overheard, there was discontent on both sides of the household. Nothing new there, of course. The wages of royalty.<br><br>As the room slowly emptied, Marelie wondered how to proceed next. Disguise was not a problem, and going around the place unobserved would give her some more insights on the situation they were facing. She would be presented and formally identified at dinner, so a few hours of anonymity could be precious. On the other hand, she had to be around Elric and watch for any untoward movements.<br><br>She decided to try and do both. Back in her quarters, she wrote a note with suggestions, then headed towards Elric's chambers through the hidden passage. She intended to leave it in a corner where he would find it, while servants would overlook it, but on peeking in she noticed he was there already, alone.<br><br>She poked her head in from behind the tapestry and coughed softly, to alert him to her presence. 'Do you have a minute?'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>04-02-2009, 17:41:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric leaned against the post of his bed, sighing.&nbsp; It felt good to be done with that obligation, and he wondered for a moment what to do next... He very much wanted to find Marelie, but he knew that was likely easier said than done.&nbsp; That being the case, it was probably best if he avoid going out unnecessarily.<br><br>Just as he was thinking this he heard a quiet noise, and spun, wide eyed, to face the slightly opened crack in the smooth stone wall.&nbsp; Like a deer cornered by a predator, his eyes showed his fight or flight response clearly.&nbsp; When he realized who it was, though, he relaxed and exhaled loudly.&nbsp; "Oh... Marelie.&nbsp; I was just thinking of you, actually.&nbsp; Of course, come in."&nbsp; He walked over toward her, brushing his suddenly sweaty palms on his sleeves and offering her a hand.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>05-02-2009, 12:17:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie took the offered hand, smiling brightly up at him before reaching for his other hand and squeezing both. It was reassuring, but to any casual observer it would look merely affectionate. Then she leaned in and kissed his cheek, nuzzling for a moment whispering, 'Assume that we're watched, so we'll have to act the lovers in private.'<br><br>She pulled him with her to sit in an armchair, dropping herself onto the stool next to it and taking a moment to arrange her skirts. Her white dress suited her; of course she would have to wear something colourful in the evening, as court etiquette required. But right now she looked soft enough never to have been anything but a highborn lady. Her voice was certainly soft enough to be heard by nobody else but him as she leaned closer, almost resting her chin on his knee.<br><br>'We'll have more time to cement the impression tonight, when you come to my room - I suspect your wife will not be in the mood, so that will give you an excuse. But now tell me, how did you find out you were targeted? Were there attempts or just intelligence? And have there been any suspicions as to the causes of your brother's death?'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>07-02-2009, 23:57:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric smiled at Marelie as she spoke, doing his best to put on an image of familiarity.&nbsp; Her mention of "cementing the impression" gave him pause, and he nodded softly.<br><br>What she said next nearly made his expression falter... He had not been looking forward to having this conversation.&nbsp; "There has been one attempt, of which I am aware, at least.&nbsp; It was late, and I had just entered my bedchamber.&nbsp; Apparently my assailant had been expecting to find me there, asleep, but instead I found him there.&nbsp; Or her.&nbsp; Or it, I'm really not sure at all.&nbsp; They had the appearance of a shadow, black and silent, and as soon as they noticed me they dissipated into nothing.&nbsp; I'm afraid it was some dark magic, Marelie.&nbsp; I... I understand if you want to back out of our arrangement.&nbsp; I should have been more honest with you."<br><br>"Of course, I could be completely wrong.&nbsp; I had been in my cups that night, and they could have simply moved faster than my eyes could follow... But they were there, and the blade they carried, I saw as clear as day.&nbsp; It was wide, and curved, and polished enough to shine in near-perfect darkness as it's bearer moved toward my bed.&nbsp; They meant to kill me, Marelie.&nbsp; I know it."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>10-02-2009, 16:32:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie shuddered. <em>Wights. Whoever is behind this, definitely means business.</em> She had come across that kind of creature once before, and had barely escaped with her life. Back then they were both making a bid for the same target; now she was about to get between it and its target, or even become one herself.<br><br>It was that thought precisely that made up her mind. This time she wasn't going to kill - well, not unless she absolutely had to. But she was going to foil the creature's plans. Her one unshaken principle had always been that, in her jobs, nobody but the target got killed. Dammit, that principle had forced her to retire - and had brought Elric into her path...<br><br>She stood up and moved to sit in Elric's lap, wrapping her arms around his neck and resting her head against his. 'I understand that you were unwilling to let your own sorcerer know about that... But you could get a Watcher to trace that - thing. There's one in my Guild House... if you're up for another night of little sleep.'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>12-02-2009, 15:04:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric took her into his lap and wrapped his arms around her, trying his best to smile.&nbsp; Between the seriousness of the conversation, and feel of her body pressed so close, it was far from easy.&nbsp; He nodded.&nbsp; "That sounds like a fair course of action.&nbsp; We may be followed, however... and then your friends would be in harm's way.&nbsp; We shall have to arrange this differently, no royal carriage.&nbsp; If you could manage to slip out of the castle, could you find some simple transportation?&nbsp; If so, I could make my way out as well and join you."&nbsp; Elric pulled her closer as he spoke, and his heart began to beat faster.&nbsp; "I... would be missed, of course, eventually, but no one would know where we'd gone.&nbsp; Your friends would be safe."&nbsp; Slowly he craned his neck up to face her, and he moved to press his lips tentatively to hers.&nbsp; <em>Gods, she smells fantastic,</em> he thought, and his fingers pressed into her firmly as he tightened his grip.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>13-02-2009, 16:57:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>It's a job. Don't lose your head on the job, or you'll end up dead, both of you.</em><br><br>The ever-alert part of Marelie's mind was warning. Of course, wrapped in Elric's arms, his lips pressing on hers, it was getting harder to heed any kind of warning. There was closeness, and warmth, and... she couldn't say what it was all about, but it seemed that, the more serious and dangerous one side of this job was getting, the more promising and inviting the other grew. <br><br>She tangled her fingers into his hair and deepened the kiss for a moment, before breaking it to whisper: 'Sneaking out of places is my specialty... I can borrow horses from the Guild House here.' She tilted her head to brush her lips against the side of his neck, to mask her words. 'And if we are both missed, well, the impression will be what we're trying to create here.' She nuzzled lightly to punctuate her words; it may not have been necessary, but it definitely felt good.<br><br>And the next moment she felt the little hairs at the nape of her neck spring up. Well trained instinct never misled her. They were being watched, right there and then.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>26-02-2009, 00:50:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric's heart was beginning to beat faster.&nbsp; He was a little surprised by the intensity of Marelie's reaction to his kiss, and he nuzzled her cheek in return as he whispered in her ear.&nbsp; "Good, then... We begin at nightfall.&nbsp; Luck be with you, if you need it."<br><br>As the words left his lips he noticed the hairs on her neck standing straight.&nbsp; For a moment he thought she was truly enjoying this, the facade they were building, and he inhaled deeply.&nbsp; It became clear very quickly, however, that her attention wasn't even on him, and he blushed a little.&nbsp; Maybe he had been enjoying it a little <em>too</em> much.&nbsp; "Is something wrong?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>27-02-2009, 09:58:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie bit her bottom lip, trying to control the crawling sensation down her spine, then rested her forehead against Elric's and let one hand trail slowly down his chest, the other still caressing the back of his head. To any watcher, they painted a pretty convincing picture of lovebirds whispering sweet nothings. The real words involved, though, were anything but.<br><br>'We're being watched,' she said, her lips barely moving. 'They know you're involved with another woman now. We won't be able to sneak out tonight; we'll be expected to act the part. Unless...' her lips moved along his jawline in tiny bites, 'unless we give them what they want to see right now.'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>01-03-2009, 18:49:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric nodded faintly, struggling to find the words to reply.&nbsp; His heart was fairly racing now, and he shivered at the feel of her teeth on his jawline.&nbsp; "Yes... Then I suppose we have little choice," he answered softly.&nbsp; He slowly lowered his head to her neck and pressed his lips to her skin, suckling and kissing for a moment before letting his teeth graze along the soft flesh.<br><br>Elric's hand moved down her back, moving to rest on her thigh and squeeze insistently as his other hand continued to press firmly into her back.&nbsp; His mind was in a daze, still a little disbelieving of what was happening, and he breathed in deeply, inhaling her scent as if trying to convince himself that she was real.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>03-03-2009, 12:49:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The pressure of his lips on her throat made Marelie moan, then whimper at the feel of his teeth. She planned to let out something audible, for the benefit of their watcher, but the sounds came out loud enough to surprise even her.<br><br>Just as well that her knives were attached to the insides of her sleeves instead of her arms. And thank all gods above she had gone without the hip knife. The last thing she'd have wanted right now would be Elric's hand closing over cold steel instead of warm flesh...<br><br>She let her head droop over his shoulder, her hair half-obscuring her face, and whispered against his ear, her fingers undoing the first fastening of his tunic, 'Just think it's four years ago again...'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>15-04-2009, 00:40:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The sound of her enjoyment surprised Elric as well, and he inhaled sharply as his touch moved further down the perfect line of her thigh.&nbsp; He was losing focus quickly, unable to form a thought as his mind followed the touch of her hands.&nbsp; Drunkenly he nuzzled into the curve of her neck, teeth sinking in deeper as he felt his need threaten to overwhelm him.<br><br>Elric's grip tightened around her thigh and squeezed, his other hand moving up her spine, desperate to find a seam, a tie, anything that would bring him closer to Marelie's skin.&nbsp; He pulled her closer as he did so, tighter, and shivered noticeably at her words, growling and suckling hard at the bruise his jaw was leaving on her neck.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>15-04-2009, 23:09:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie whimpered again at the bite, then at the sucking onto the mauled skin. Yes, the bruise would be quite visible, she had always been like that... but for once, she didn't mind being marked. It was Elric after all...<br><br>She had only just wondered, in the back of her mind, why that mattered so much, when his roving hand found the crisscrossing laces on the side of her dress, one moment before the other hand followed on the other side. Marelie gasped softly as the dress sagged and slid off her shoulders. For a moment she thought she heard another soft gasp, from somewhere behind her. She had to bite her lip to stop herself from turning around to look - and blowing everything.<br><br><em>Do it. That's why you're here.</em> Marelie moaned softly in assent to the voice of reason, and moved lightly to straddle him, without even pulling her neck away from his lips.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>17-04-2009, 21:00:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric's untrained ears heard nothing, and by this time he had nearly forgotten they were even being watched.&nbsp; When Marelie straddled him though, it came back to him.&nbsp; They were playing parts.&nbsp; What was his part?&nbsp; He was having trouble thinking.&nbsp; As he slipped the sun dress down her torso, revealing more and more of her skin, he did his best to gather his wits, no small task with her weight in his lap and her neck offered up to him.&nbsp; He felt like she was truly his, and it stirred him deeply.<br><br>She <em>was</em> his, at least for the time being, he realized.&nbsp; That was his part.&nbsp; Their clandestine watcher wasn't expecting to see an inexperienced young man, fumbling over this beautiful woman as she gave herself to him.&nbsp; He was king, and this lady was his consort.<br><br>Elric let her dress fall to her waist and slipped an arm beneath her leg.&nbsp; Wrapping the other tightly around her, he lifted her from the large chair with a growl.&nbsp; "Come," he said, locking eyes with her as he pulled away from her neck and held her close.&nbsp; "It is time for you to satisfy your King."&nbsp; Moving to the edge of the bed, he let her fall rather roughly onto the soft mattress and set about finishing the work Marelie had started, undressing himself as he watched her.&nbsp; Elric felt a sudden rush from commanding her, and pressed on.&nbsp; "Bare yourself to me."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>18-04-2009, 00:03:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The sudden movement and growl took Marelie by surprise. Her arms tightened against Elric as he carried her over, then she looked up at him, wide-eyed for a moment, when he dropped her onto the bed. That moment could have cost them everything...<br><br>Then... the thrill. The game was afoot, and just watching Elric undress, that gleam in his eyes... <em>What if this was four years ago?</em><br><br>She sat up at his command, slipped her dress off her hips and let it fall off the other side of the bed. Then she sat back on her heels, head slightly bowed in seeming coyness at his roving gaze over her nakedness. 'Does Your Majesty approve?'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>19-04-2009, 19:37:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric could do nothing to stifle a smile as Marelie did as she was told.&nbsp; He had imagined this so many times since that night, but it had never been like this.&nbsp; Shrugging out of his shirt and letting it fall to the floor, he began to unfasten his trousers and nodded.&nbsp; "Yes, my girl.&nbsp; I do indeed approve."<br><br>Letting his pants fall away, he stepped out of them and moved onto the bed, crawling towards her with a faint smile as the gleam in his eyes grew with every inch he came closer.&nbsp; Elric moved alongside her, and he paused to take a deep breath. This felt very much like a dream, like he was going to wake up at any moment, and he reached out to lay a hand on her naked thigh and stroke it lightly.&nbsp; She was really there.&nbsp; He squeezed insistently and smiled.<br><br>Elric caught himself then, a little annoyed that he had let his emotions push him out of his role.&nbsp; Reaching up to cup the back of her head, he turned Marelie to face him, kissing her deeply as his grip on her thigh tightened.&nbsp; Slowly he began to pull at her leg, urging her to spread for him, and with every second, his heart beat a little faster.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>22-04-2009, 11:31:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie glanced over the edge of the bed, where her dress had fallen, calculating how easy it would be for her to roll over and snatch her knives out of the sleeve sheathes, if necessary. Easy enough. Elric was moving towards her from the other side, which was leaving the way open.<br><br>Of course, that might very well change soon, she thought, just before his lips covered hers and drove focus away from her role.<br><br>The hand creeping up her thigh made her shiver and tingle, and her eyes fluttered half-closed. No reason not to enjoy what she had to do anyway, was there?<br><br>The way he was leaning her backwards, still on her knees, was practically immobilising. She arched her back slowly, to avoid breaking the kiss, her breasts pointing up, nipples stiffening, and slid her legs forward from under her, allowing her thighs to drop wider open, more smooth skin for his fingers to wander over.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>25-04-2009, 00:56:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric let out a long breath, smiling as Marelie's legs slipped out from under her.&nbsp; His fingers stroked her soft hair, and his hand began to move along her thigh once more, slowly approaching the apex of her legs.<br><br>Only the tips of his fingers touched her skin, and they traced a path higher, faster every moment as he failed to restrain his eagerness.&nbsp; Finally Elric slipped his hand down and in, running his fingers tentatively along her bared sex, and he growled quietly.<br><br>Elric repeated the motion, stroking the outer folds of her sex before nuzzling his fingers deeper.&nbsp; Pressing himself closer to her body, he looked up from what he was doing and kissed her again.&nbsp; It was harder this time, more passionate, as his heart raced out of control.&nbsp; He could feel it thumping against his chest... It had to be obvious.&nbsp; Elric broke the kiss, and brushing his lips against hers, he took another deep breath.&nbsp; It was vital that he not blow everything right here, right now.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>03-05-2009, 23:55:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie shivered at that soft growl. The sound seemed to reverberate off her skin, raising goosebumps as much as his hand closing over her sex. How long had it been since she had let down her guard enough to allow anyone to touch her?<br><br><em>Too long. And you shouldn't be letting down your guard. But you're going to do it anyway.</em><br><br>She could feel Elric's heartbeat thump against her, his breath growing more ragged against her lips. He must be feeling the same way; vacillating between the need to make this look real and the wish for it to <em>be</em> real. She reached out with both arms, throwing them around him tentatively, as if she weren't sure it was proper, and whimpered, just loudly enough, 'Please...'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>06-05-2009, 18:11:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The one word washed over him, <em>please</em>, and he slipped a finger steadily deeper into her.&nbsp; It felt so perfect, and he inhaled sharply before pulling his digit free again.&nbsp; He had to have her, now.&nbsp; She was his, for the purposes of the moment, and he was going to take advantage of it.&nbsp; <br><br>Placing his hand against her upper chest, he shoved Marelie down hard and climbed atop her prone form, moving between her legs and stroking her thighs lustfully.&nbsp; Taking hold of them beneath her knees, Elric lifted and spread her legs a little more until her sex was offered up to him.&nbsp; He shifted forward as smoothly as he could, his chest still pounding with excitement and nervousness, and brushed the head of his length against her sex.&nbsp; The feeling brought a strained groan to his lips, and taking a deep breath, he began to press forward.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>07-05-2009, 13:09:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her muscles tensed as he shoved her down. She was supposed to be watching out for him, not to make herself as vulnerable as that...<br><br><em>But you can't do this without being vulnerable. Both of you. And you want to go the whole way.</em><br><br>The glazing of lust in his eyes made her insides clench. <em>I want it. We want it.</em> The head of his manhood pressing through her folds was meeting welcoming wetness. 'Please be gentle, Sire,' she said hesitantly, reaching out to run her hands up his chest, but the expression in her own half-lidded eyes silently suggested the opposite.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>12-05-2009, 21:28:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric nodded to Marelie as he drove himself steadily deeper, filling her until he was buried inside and holding there.&nbsp; The feeling was incredible, one he had not experienced in quite some time, as Beretha ws rarely interested in such things.&nbsp; He savored the moment as he continued stroking her thighs.<br><br>Resting his hands around her waist and then tightening, Elric gradually began to move against her, a smooth rocking to ease himself into it.&nbsp; Finishing a bit too early was a very real possibility, and Elric was eager to enjoy this to the fullest in spite of their current vulnerability.<br><br>His eyes caressed her form as he took her, traveling up her smooth stomach and over her chest, lingering at the curve of her neck, and smiling faintly as Elric locked eyes with her, the color just visible between her heavy lids.&nbsp; It was then that he began to move against her harder, growling again, and louder this time as it stretched out into a low moan.&nbsp; His fingers dug and pressed into her waist, as his other hand traveled smoothly up to grasp at her breast, giving him a little support as he leaned over her and increased his efforts.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>13-05-2009, 18:37:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie was the first to moan as Elric pressed into her. Parting, filling, stretching... oh gods, this felt too good. How could she have imagined she would be able to maintain her focus through this?<br><br>And then he started moving, and her insides clenched hard enough around him to take her breath away. Her back arched as his hands slid under her waist, her legs moving to wrap around his hips, her own beginning to rock with him already, without permission from her mind or will.<br><br>The hand on her breast closed over a dark, stiff nipple that sent a shot of pain-spiked pleasure through her as his palm rubbed against it. Marelie groaned at the rising pace, then bucked against him, wordlessly imploring him to go on.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>23-05-2009, 00:38:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric's jaw dropped and hung open as Marelie began working back against him, meeting his every stroke and driving him insane with need.&nbsp; His grip tightened around her breast, bearing his weight down harder onto her, and his abdomen clenched with effort as he continued taking her.&nbsp; <br><br>"That's... good... a good... girl... "&nbsp; The words left his mouth haltingly as Elric panted, a little unsure of what he was saying.&nbsp; It seemed right though, in the moment as they were.&nbsp; The fulfillment of his pleasure was not far off; he could feel it approaching, and a loud groaning cry followed as he struggled to hold back.&nbsp; His brow furrowed tightly, and he looked down at her, his eyes blazing with lust for the creature arching and moaning beneath him.&nbsp; "So good..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>29-05-2009, 23:40:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marelie noticed Elric's eyes glazing over with lust, and knew, in the back of her mind, that she was not herself to him anymore, but only a toy, a willing body to get pleasure out of. And she didn't care.<br><br><em>If seeing me as me inhibits him, then much better if I'm nameless and faceless.</em><br><br>She spared a last thought to her weapons, wondering if she would be able to react - if Elric would be able to stop - in the case of someone coming against them while they were so vulnerable. Because she didn't want him to stop. Her moans were rising all this while, following the rising force of his thrusting. She tightened her legs at his sides and let her hips slam against his harder, both galloping towards climax now.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>05-06-2009, 14:36:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric's jaw clenched tightly as his climax began to overtake him, and his hands moved to holds her waist tightly.&nbsp; His manhood flexed and convulsed within her.&nbsp; His breath was panting heavily, his words incoherent and halting.&nbsp; He had thought about this many times, and it was happening.&nbsp; Elric spent himself greedily into her silken core.<br><br>There was a groan, from elsewhere, but Elric's lust-wracked senses could only groan in reply.&nbsp; It did finally register as his orgasm subsided, and he slowed to a gentle rocking as he listened more intently, looking down at Marelie.&nbsp; He was loathe to be free of her, as wonderful as it felt.&nbsp; His chest still heaved with every breath.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lilias</strong> on <strong>08-06-2009, 15:22:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The explosion within her almost scalded her. Marelie arched sharply as Elric's climax triggered her own, straining against him as he pinned her down, a sound between a groan and a howl tearing out of her throat. Then she dropped back, a film of sweat on her skin, her breath still ragged as he went on rocking into her.<br><br>She half-opened her eyes to look up into his and ran her hands up and down his arms, as they both slowly subsided. 'You'll have to send me away,' she whispered with a tinge of regret that reality had to resume. 'Show you have the upper hand here. Show me off at the dinner table. Sneaking out in the evening will look just like another tryst.'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Set a Thief [Lilias &amp; Will1984]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>11-06-2009, 16:54:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elric gave her a nearly imperceptible nod, taking a deep breath and exhaling before pulling away from Marelie.&nbsp; <br><br>"That was lovely, my dear girl," he said in a voice that was still fairly labored from exhaustion.&nbsp; "You will come to dinner tonight, and I will have you afterward.&nbsp; Make certain you wear something... easy to navigate."&nbsp; Elric's cheeks actually flushed a little as he spoke, working hard to stifle the urge to chuckle and grin.&nbsp; <br><br>She looked truly lovely as she lay there on her back, and he was loathe to let her go.&nbsp; It was unavoidable, however, and he slid off of the bed with a sigh to pick up his trousers.
			</dd>
		</dl>
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