The outlaws

While she’s allowed to keep her sword and shield, Lorkan and the other two keep a close eye on Lavorra, and keep her wrists bound behind her back. There is a silent understand that any attempt to flee or betray the bandits will result in a savage beating, or being passed around the campfire.

Or both.

After a short trek through the woods - to the North, on course to her destination at least - they group up with another set of five bandits, which seems to be the full compliment of the outlaws. The men are similarly dressed, and most of them seem dejected and in low spirits. They seem to have enough energy to leer at her, and mutter the most foul plans for her.

Lavorra starts to get the impression that these are perhaps **** men, rather than wicked ones. But she is reminded of the blond’s **** of her, not to mention One eyes plans, and Lorkan’s threats.

Lorkan himself is sullen and brooding as he gives orders, and Lavorra’s pointed ears twitch as she listens for any clues. She makes eye contact with him several times, and on the third occasion he looks her up and down hungrily, finally showing some emotion other than broodiness. She blushes, and then chastises herself fiercely.

It seems that they have prior information of a cart travelling further North under armed guard. There is a buzz of excitement amongst the men when Lorkan announces that Lavorra will be assisting them. It seems her involvement may be a tipping point in their plan. She prays to the Matron that the targets of their plot are not innocents.

Not long after, she is hauled roughly to her feet, and her bonds are cut. Lorkan looks her in the eyes, towering over her. “Don’t fuck this up. Just play your part and we never have to see one another again. If you do as you’re told,” he seizes her by the cheeks, not roughly, but firmly, “then I promise that none of them will touch you.”

Her lips part slightly, pushed open as he squeezes her cheeks. She puts a hand on his chest, pushing him back half-heartedly. He takes a step back, and smirks, while Lavorra tries desperately to ignore the heat rising in her loins.

Fuck this.