Janaxia sipped her wine, savouring the taste. Not as nice as that from the family cellars, of course, but certainly pleasant and warming. She leant backwards, feeling Anef’s arm tighten around her, nestled comfortably around the curve of her hip, fingers casually stroking her body. There were in the basement of the Broken Crown, a delightfully stereotypical thieves den hidden behind a concealed wall, with the rest of his “crew” assembled. Their reactions when she had removed her mage’s robe to reveal the dress beneath had been most gratifying, Anef’s most of all, a grinning nod of approval before inviting her to take a seat by his side. From then it hadn’t been long until his arm had snaked around, drawing her close as he went through the plan.

The table was covered with a much-abused parchment, a sketchy map of the Boronime estate, marred with a number of cuts and what appeared to be bloodstains. The item likely had some lengthy history, and appeared quite detailed, with sketched arrows showing expected guard routes, hazy lines showing magical auras and other defences.

‘Now, Lady Janaxia here’, he gave her a slight squeeze, drawing her even closer, ‘will be helping us with the more arcane aspects of the job. Which is good, because Nillik Ninefingers is currently swinging from a rope and so cannot help us this time, or probably ever again. There’s an old passageway from the neighbouring estate we can use to get into their vaults. From there, we can take the servant’s passages into the library. Everything we’re looking for is supposed to be locked away in a concealed room – some magical device is being used as the seal. I’m hoping that Lady Janaxia’, she wiggled again, glad to finally receive some formally acknowledgement of her exalted position, ‘will be able to identify it.’

He picked up a copper token, sliding it across the parchment to show their hopeful progress. ‘Inside, it’s a standard Garramik lock – well-crafted, but I’m sure that your skills are up to the task, Lathran.’ A short, lean figure nodded, a high collar and hat concealing most of their features, but not quite deep enough to hide the points of their ears. It was rare to see an elf, and even rarer for one to be associated with a criminal enterprise, but odd bedfellows were likely the norm in such circumstances. Presumably even the hidden kingdoms of the forest had their share of rogues and renegades.

‘They’ve got some magical wardens as well, and we don’t have the power to go through those. But they’re not very observant – Krem, Shanelle, you two keep an eye out. Stick to the shadows and go high, they’re not meant to be very good at looking up.’ Krem was a tall, lean stick of a man, skin drawn parched and tight over knobbly bones, but Janaxia still gave him a polite smile, despite his apparent lack of interest. Shanelle was rather more interesting, a young woman wearing tight black clothing, and looking at Janaxia with obvious interest. It seemed unlikely there was any rules about proprietary within such a group, so perhaps if Anef grew tired, or the two might be amenable to a group enterprise, then mutual entertainment could be arranged before the task was undertaken.

‘We’re trying to keep this clean – if no-one ever knows we were here, then that means they won’t know the item is gone, until we’re good and clear. So blades in sheaths, people, unless everything has gone completely to shit. Durapi, you’re in reserve, anything goes wrong, do what you do.’

Durapi was an outlander, his head shaved, uncovered chest covered in harsh, straight-lined runic tattoos, knives strapped to his forearms, a large sword at his waist. ‘Whatever you say, boss. You sure this is on the level? Seems awful neat, get hold of a plan like this. These chantling-families are always up to something, and they’re all related to each other. How do we know this isn’t just some bluff, where we’re running distraction?’

‘Lady Janaxia here is the daughter of the person paying us. I doubt she would throw away her own daughter, would they?’

It didn’t seem polite to point out that Mother almost certainly would sacrifice Janaxia for… well, probably not much, so Janaxia stayed silent, enjoying her wine and the supple strength of Anef’s body close against her own as he continued to speak.

‘But I appreciate that caution when dealing with the old blood is always advisable. That is why Lady Janaxia is with us, and also why we got paid in advance. So, worst case scenario, we can go to the grave knowing that we’ve taken a pretty chunk of change, and a daughter of the blood went down with us.’ He turned to face Janaxia, smiling at her. ‘No offence intended, of course. This is risky work, but I’m sure everything will go smoothly. They’re having some party that night. It’s a family affair, so they’re all going to be locked up doing a ritual of some kind, and most of the staff dismissed for the night.’

Lathran spoke, their voice soft and lilting, impossible to tell their gender or age. ‘Worrisome. Dark blood, dark times. Caution seemed advisable.’

‘Indeed. But for the amount we’re getting paid, a little risk is worth it. If everything goes smooth, then we’ll be in and out, no-one will even know for months. Any other questions?’

Shanelle approached, checking over the map, leaning over and flashing a smile at Janaxia, who gave a more reserved smile back. Some time with Anef first, and then see how things developed. Although the girl was appealing, all toned muscles and wiry skin. She would be even more appealing if she were better dressed; her tight trousers and a sleeveless top were functional, and she had the build for them, but something with a bit more dash would be preferable. Maybe a cutout, or at least some embroidery, a touch of something shiny amongst the black?

‘How we getting into the neighbour’s place? Most manors don’t let people like us just wander in.’

‘Got a person on the inside, they started about a week ago, they’ll sort everything. That part should be smooth as silk.’ He ran his hand along Janaxia’s body, feeling the fabric and her flesh beneath. ‘So that should be the easy part, same to get out, just the middle that’s the ball-ache. Course, if we have to, we can always book it for the gate and the street, but it’ll be easier if no-one knows we’re there.’

Shanelle nodded. ‘Let’s hope it’s that smooth. Want me to show the new girl the ropes?’

‘She and I need to catch up first, so maybe after the job, if Lady Janaxia is amenable? I know you like to string up noble lasses, but we need this one free to help us.’

Shanelle winked at her. ‘Don’t tire her out too much, leave some for me!’

‘Oh, I’m quite sure I will manage to endure the night.’ Janaxia met Shanelle’s eyes, staring levelly back. An assignation would doubtless be pleasurable, but Anef would come first, and his hand was currently tracing up and down her spine, out of sight of his companions, sending electric heat throbbing into her body. ‘But Anef is right – we can perhaps arrange something afterwards? I’m sure it would be educational. Although this place is a rather miserable backwater, there are a few mutual delights we could doubtless partake of.’

The others laughed, Shanelle looking taken aback but not displeased, as Krem spoke. ‘Looks like Missy Mage might have plans of her own for you, Shanny. I’ll start taking book on who’ll come out on top. 3-to-1 on you, I think, Lady Janaxia.’ He even bowed, albeit slightly, roughly, and probably sarcastically, but that, combined with the gentle stroking from Anef, was entirely too pleasurable, even if she wasn’t entirely sure of the precise nature of the discussion.

‘I am honoured by your faith in my abilities, Krem.’

‘Less you, more that Shanny’s all mouth, no trouser. Blushes like a maiden soon as anyone pretty starts paying her attention. Asai damn near broke her once with a kiss!’

Shanelle was starting to blush already, face reddening as she reached into a sleeve and pulled out a knife. ‘I was just surprised, that’s all! Cheatin’, that’s what it is, to just come up and do that to someone!’

Anef thumped his own tankard onto the table. ‘Shouldn’t have come as a surprise, she’d been eyeing you up for a while! Anyway, myself and the Lady Janaxia have important “business” to discuss. We’ll meet back here at fourth bell tomorrow.’ His hand was slowly drifting lower on her back, leaving little doubt as to what the “business” entailed. She smiled and pushed herself against his hand, savouring the warmth, the simple pleasure of physical contact that wasn’t a strike or other punishment, as the others filed out, Shanelle and Krem still squabbling.

As soon as they were gone, Janaxia moved, sitting herself in Anef’s lap, kissing him, to which he eagerly responded. He was at least careful with her dress, slipping it off and hanging it on the back of a chair, before unbuttoning his own shirt, as they tended to their mutual “business”, Anef enthusiastically rising to the occasion.

She awoke the next morning, nestled comfortably close to Anef, his arms around her. She smiled – last night had been highly pleasant, Anef just as competent as she expected, and keen to pleasure her as she deserved. He stirred behind her, warmth pressing against her, arms tightening. Then a darkness appeared before her, the misty wraith of an unwelcome visitor appearing.

Ranaria leered at her, although at least had the courtesy to whisper. ‘He’s beautiful! Now, if you were to kill yourself, then I could have some pleasure, before your body starts to rot. Please, Janaxia! Let me have the pleasure from your death that I was denied in life!’

Janaxia tried to shoo her away but didn’t want to move too much and risk wakening Asai. He was likely tired from last night’s exertions, as she had done what she could to tire him out! She mouthed at the spectral figure, trying to get her to go away, back to her gem. Behind her, Anef stirred again, a hand moving and stroking down her back and making her gasp in pleasure, Ranaria watching intently. Janaxia couldn’t squirm away without pulling away entirely, as another hand stroked between her thighs. He was certainly eager to please! And quick to ready himself, if the hard, firm heat pressing against her was any indication.

And then soft breath tickled the back of her neck, slightest touch of a slick tongue and a gentle nip to the skin making her squeal almost uncontrollably. Another bite, slightly harder, and she could feel herself losing control, slipping away into dazed pleasure as his drowsy voice whispered in her ear. ‘Thought you might like that.’ He nibbled her neck again, forcing her to bite her lip or else she’d be moaning loudly enough to be heard by anyone outside or in the neighbouring rooms.

She couldn’t manage to entirely restrain herself, her wordless sounds mingling with the other sounds of the dawn. Her vision swam, body arcing with pleasure, even as Ranaria looked on with undisguised yearning, eyes burning bright, before the daylight brightened enough to banish her. Her darkness faded back into the bracelet, leaving Janaxia to the delights of the morning.

After being granted her pleasure by Anef’s dextrous fingers, it seemed only fair to turn around to face him and engage in something rather more mutual. He seemed quite content to let her take the commanding position, grasping her hips as she rode him to a satisfying conclusion.

It was almost a disappointment to have to separate and get ready, but the way he watched her dress, eyes following the curves of her body, was rather flattering, and a favour she was entirely happy to repay. His life had left him with lean muscles, and not a few scars, white lines against his tanned flesh, a few looking indicative of very close brushes with danger. Watching him dress was enticing as well as educational, all sorts of weapons and tools and vials tucked away into pockets and sleeves. It seemed he would be a useful ally to have around. And if last night was any indication, a most pleasurable companion as well!

She prepared herself as well, her meagre pouch of spell components, for the tiny number of cantrips she knew, seeming rather lacklustre in comparison, the unopened spellbook going about her waist.

‘Now, Lady Janaxia, are you fully prepared? It promises to be a simple task, but even the best of plans can go awry.’

‘Oh, I have heard stories.’ Kinnevar’s diary was full of tellings of his deeds and adventures, many of which had gone astray and far from as intended. Although this seemed far more minor than his deeds, petty larceny of a minor magical item rather than infiltrating the highest of temples to abscond with ancient artefacts of unknowable power. And it seemed unlikely she would be able to affect a dalliance with a member of the household to secure her goals!

‘Be careful, follow my lead. My crew are tight, so we don’t have to worry about betrayal, but wizard’s houses are always filled with weird stuff, so all sorts of things can happen. I’m relying on you to spot and get us around any magical traps and that sort of thing.’

Janaxia nodded, hoping she would be up to the task. But the Boronime family were only distant offshoots, so surely wouldn’t have anything too potent? Hopefully Ranaria would help to protect her as well, at least from anything that might destroy her body.

They assembled in the meeting room again, everyone now attired for “work”, with blades and tools concealed about their persons, bulky cloaks ready for when they left to hide their equipment. Durapi had cut himself, smearing the blood into a runic shape on his forehead, some power holding it in place without drying. Janaxia sidled up to Shanelle, her leather armour both functional and somewhat attractive, a dull black that was likely to avoid shining in the night, asking a question as the others reviewed the plans.

‘I don’t suppose you would happen to have any shoes? These are rather, um, lacking.’ She waggled her feet, keenly aware that the leather bags were decidedly unfashionable, and probably not practical for such work as they were to be about. Shanelle looked at them and smiled.

‘Don’t match the dress, do they? Don’t worry, think I’ve got just the thing.’ She turned to Anef. ‘I’m taking her to get something for her feet.’

He looked up from the plan. ‘Don’t take too long. Or do anything to her, save that for afterwards!’

‘Yeah, yeah, I know. Anyway, come with me.’

Janaxia followed along, into another room. The girl had been practising her trade, a complicated rope harness strung from the ceiling. She ran her fingers along the rope – it felt softer than the tough hempen stuff she had seen used on ships. Shanelle brushed up close, pressing her hand against the rope. ‘Elven rope. Nice and smooth and can take a lot more weight. Not that there’s much weight to you, is there? Anyway, this is a job, so nothing too fancy. Those do you?’ She pointed at some black leather knee-high boots, low-heeled and silver-buckled. ‘Probably not as fancy as you’re used to, but better than those things you’ve got. You get all sorts of shit underfoot that you don’t want anywhere near your skin.’

Janaxia sat atop several strands of the rope, the harness flexing slightly before stiffening under her weight. Shanelle knelt, taking Janaxia’s foot and smiling up at her, tugging a boot on, then buckling it. Janaxia twisted her ankle, feeling the material, snug and tight against her leg, nodding in approval. A little small, perhaps, but functional. And very nice looking! Shanelle started pulling on the other one.

‘If you’re sticking around afterwards, then I’m sure I can show you a few things.’ With her other hand, she tugged on a rope, the material shifting beneath Janaxia. Her hands carefully guided Janaxia’s foot into the boot, strong and soft, before starting to buckle it into place. ‘Always nice to meet new people, and it’s not fair that Anef gets all the fun.’

Janaxia wondered what the etiquette was – being shared between Anef and Asai had been fairly unproblematic, but would a dalliance with Shanelle be seen as lowering herself? She would have to try and enquire with Anef, there may be some decorum around inter-gang relationships she was unaware of. But the girl was quite attractive, and those strong, warm fingers could probably work wonders in other circumstances. Having that crest of brown hair bobbing about between her legs certainly suggested other, more pleasurable activities! She favoured the girl with a smile. ‘Let us hope the job goes smoothly, and then, who knows? I’m sure there will be celebration afterwards.’

Shanelle smiled back at her, licking her lips as she, more carefully than was needed, ran her hands along Janaxia’s legs, making sure the boots wouldn’t slip off. ‘Sounds good to me. Let’s be hoping for dark nights and smooth crimes. Let’s be going – you know what men are like, they’ll be talking all night if we let them, without using their lips for anything fun! Although from what I could hear, sounds like you talked Anef into using his the right way.’

Janaxia flushed, using a hand to fan herself. ‘He was a courteous host.’

‘Kinnevar’s Kiss, I’ve heard some call it. Some sorcerer from the olden times. Must have made quite the impact to get it named after him! Anef’s mentioned you before though, can see why – thought you’d be some grubby little chantling, not, well, a fancy piece.’

‘Thank you, I do try and rise above myself.’ She rose, taking a few steps; the heels weren’t too high, and she couldn’t feel any chafing. And they offered far better protection, and style, than the detestable leather sacks. She led the way back, twisting her hips a little, to give Shanelle something to see.

When they returned to the planning room, it seemed that discussion was over. Anef looked at the two of them, then moved to Janaxia and give her a swift, possessive kiss. ‘Looks like you managed to escape, at least for now.’

Shanelle cackled. ‘Always time for that later! But best get started, the thieving moons won’t last forever.’

And with that they were off. Anef walked close by Janaxia, an arm around her shoulders. She leaned into him, enjoying the warmth, his scent and strength, as they headed into the night.