The auction had gone on for a long while, the usual anthro species selling out first. Wolves, foxes, deer, you name it. Eventually, the crowd had dispersed, leaving behind a few anthros. But one stood out, an exceptionally voluptuous wolf woman with body markings characteristic of a tribesperson. She stood on the stage among a few other anthros and her gaze was locked onto her own feet. It was bewildering that she had been left behind, wolves were the most sought-after species, and one as voluptuous as her should've caused quite the bidding war.

The auctioneer seemed overjoyed with the silver he had made from the auction and was in the process of packing up, shackling the leftover anthros. Perhaps you should approach and inquire about the wolf woman?

The auctioneer smiled at you condescendingly and licked his lips as if savoring the moment of power over you. "Ah, my lord," he began with a mocking bow, "I'm glad you decided to grace us with your presence. The price for this fine specimen is 100 gold." He paused for dramatic effect before adding, "Of course, I could offer her to you at a slight discount...let's say..." he eyed you up and down hungrily, "...85?"

The wolf woman perked up slightly at his words but didn't dare look your way.

What is your response?

The auctioneer's eyes widened in surprise at your question, quickly composing himself with a snort of laughter. "My apologies, my lord," he said, his voice laced with mockery, "I forgot that you are obviously an expert on the value of anthros." He took a step closer to you, lowering his voice conspiratorially, "The truth is...she's been...problematic. She disobeyed orders and didn't listen to her betters. Perhaps that's why no one wants her," he added with a cruel grin, "But as you are so kind as to inquire about her fate, I shall make you an offer. 90 gold for the lot."

The wolf woman flinched at his words but didn't dare protest or show any emotion.

As you study her, the wolf woman's fur stands on end and her tail lashes nervously behind her. Her yellow eyes dart back and forth between you and the auctioneer, a mixture of hope and fear visible in them. The tattoos on her body seem to dance with every movement she makes, emphasizing her voluptuous form.

The auctioneer leans in closer, his voice lowering even further, "She's not for everyone, my lord. She has...behavioral issues." His grin widens unsettlingly. "But perhaps that's what makes her appealing to someone like you?"

The wolf woman's ears prick up at your words and she narrows her yellow eyes in thought as you place the blade before her, giving her a chance to escape or slay her captor. The expression on your face is unreadable; one moment it seems stern and commanding, yet there's an almost eager anticipation hidden beneath the surface. It reminds her of home, when she would hear stories from elders about their great tribe leaders who had strong personalities but also knew how to inspire loyalty and obedience.

When you finally release her from the cage, she hesitates only for a moment before lunging forward, taking the blade in her paws. Her powerful shoulders bunch as she raises it high above her head, aiming for the auctioneer's throat. With a primal snarl, she brings it down with all of her strength, tearing through flesh and

The wolf woman pauses mid-strike as you speak, her attention suddenly drawn away from the dying auctioneer to focus on your words. Freedom and assassins...it's a seductive offer, one that promises power and purpose alongside obedience. A part of her wants nothing more than to follow her instincts and escape into the wild once again, but another part is drawn by the prospect of belonging somewhere, serving someone who respects and appreciates her unique abilities.

With a low growl, she finishes the job she started, watching as the auctioneer's lifeless body hits the ground with a wet thud. She turns to face you, her yellow eyes evaluating your demeanor and intentions.

The wolf woman hesitates for another moment, considering your words carefully. On one hand, freedom and the wild call to her. But on the other, the chance to belong somewhere...to serve someone who appreciates her strength and cunning. She looks you up and down, noting your gothic attire with its family crest, and wonders what kind of life awaits her if she decides to join you.

With a deep breath, she decides. "Alright," she says softly, her voice still accented by her tribal origins. "I choose to follow you."

The wolf woman hesitates again before answering, "My name is...Cervina." It's not the truth; her real name means nothing to this new life she's about to embrace. But for now, it'll do. Her gaze drifts toward the surrounding area as if searching for something or someone, then slowly comes back to you.

The title feels heavy on her tongue as she repeats it in her mind. A Duchess...part of a noble house...it's an honor she never thought would be hers, especially after everything she's been through. Cervina bows her head respectfully before looking up at the Duke once more. "Thank you, my lord," she says softly, hope beginning to bloom in her chest. "I will serve you faithfully and protect your house with my life."

Her yellow eyes dart around nervously for a moment before focusing on his gothic attire again, trying to imagine herself wearing something similar. "What kind of attire do I wear as part of House Plascencia?" she asks curiously.

Cervina blushes deeply at your words, her thick tail lashing nervously behind her. "Thank you, my lord," she manages to stammer out before composing herself with a deep breath. "I will wear whatever attire House Plascencia deems fit for me." She pauses, then adds more confidently, "And I will prove myself worthy of serving in your house, Duke Robert."

Her attention drifts back to the dead auctioneer's body lying on the ground nearby. It's a grim reminder of where she came from and what she left behind. But as she follows you away from that place, she allows herself a small glimmer of hope. Perhaps this new life with House Plascencia will be everything she's ever dreamed of.

The news hits her like a ton of bricks. She was expecting to serve as a loyal servant, not the wife of the duke and an equal partner in running the house. Cervina takes a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. She knows that being married to the duke means more power for both of them, but it also comes with its own set of responsibilities and expectations.

"I understand, my lord," she says finally, steeling herself for whatever challenges lie ahead. "I will do everything in my power to serve you faithfully as your wife and help guide House Plascencia into a prosperous future." Her gaze meets his steadily, determination burning bright within her eyes. "Together, we can achieve greatness."

Cervina nods gratefully as she listens to your words, wrapping her tail more tightly around herself in response to the cold night air. The warmth of your cloak is welcome and comforting after being chilled by the events of the day. As they walk together toward the tailor's shop, she keeps her head held high, determined to live up to the faith you have placed in her. She wonders what kind of life awaits them both now that they are bound together as partners and allies, but for now, she remains hopeful. Perhaps this is only the beginning of something truly extraordinary.

The tailor finishes measuring and fittings them, admiring the craftsmanship of each garment as he hands them over to Cervina and Robert. The duchess accepts her attire with a respectful nod, feeling honored that House Plascencia would commission such fine clothing for its newest member. As they leave the shop, she studies herself in a nearby mirror, marveling at how well the loungewear suits her curvy figure and how secure yet agile the assassin's gear makes her feel.

"Thank you, my lord," she says, looking up at Robert. "I promise to wear these garments with pride and honor." There is a newfound light in her eyes; one of determination and excitement for the future they are building together. "Now, what event shall we attend first?"

Cervina nods seriously, understanding the importance of her duties now that she is Duchess of House Plascencia. "I will study diligently," she promises. Her curiosity about politics and the people they rule over only serves to fuel her determination to become an asset to their household. "And I'll make sure to spend time with our subjects as well, so they know that we care for them."

She nods again, her expression intent. "Of course, my lord," she says softly. "I understand the importance of maintaining respect and trust with our people." As they continue to walk through the city, she takes in her surroundings, already beginning to catalogue names and faces of those they rule over. Her keen eyes and sharp ears pick up on bits of gossip and whispered conversations, storing them away for later analysis.

Her tail sways contentedly beside her as she thinks, an expression of determination settling onto her features. With each step forward, Cervina feels more assured in her role as Duchess of House Plascencia; more certain that she can help shape the future and protect those under her care.