Nyoka stalks the dungeons, gliding through each chamber elegantly. Ophion follows its master obediently, lighting up her path as she snakes her way through them. Their pace only slows when there's sounds up ahead – another Courser no doubt. Prey. At least, to a shapeshifter like her. The Order of Mercurial rarely ever discriminated against their victims. The mare flicks her tail, commanding Ophion to stay behind her for now. 

Carefully, Nyoka selects the right mask for whoever was up ahead. A kind soul, looking to help anyone would likely be the best choice. With a deep breath, it slides on with practiced ease. She nods to her familiar, sending the wisp forward to catch the attention of whoever was ahead. 

Rounding the corner, the shapeshifter’s target comes into full view and it is just as she had predicted – a hopelessly lost Courser. She masks the satisfied smile with a kind one, “Hello? Is somebody ahead?” Nyoka ensures her voice is soft, innocent. Her head remains low and ears folded back as she approaches the stranger, “I thought I heard something… are you alright? Do you need help?”

“Thank the gods! Yes! Yes! I have been hopelessly lost for… I don’t even know how long! Please tell me you know the way back to the surface…” the Courser responds desperately and it brings Nyoka a thrill. Oh, to have someone in her hooves so easily – The gullible and naive always were treats to her. 

It takes a delicate hoof to pull the strings of an interaction to steer it the way that she wants to. The taste of power is something that is sweet on her tongue. Her fangs are ready to sink in, but she holds back. Not yet, she must savor this treat. Of course, the easy ones were merely snacks to the shapeshifter… Her sights are on another, longer term subject. But, for now, she will indulge herself. 

“Of course, I know the way. Come, follow me.” Nyoka smiles pleasantly.