Book 5: Chapter 23: Let me help you relax

Book 5: Chapter 23: Let me help you relax

Heather awoke to the high-pitched snores of Webster, who was curled into a tight little ball beside her head. She let the spider sleep as she struggled to extract herself from the impossibly plush bed. Visions of the night before played through her head, but they seemed distorted as if viewing them through the water. The floor was surprisingly warm as her bare feet stepped into the plush rug. All around was a room bathed in ornaments and decoration with paintings of men and women in bold situations.

That woman is terrible, Heather said with a blush and made her way to a tall wardrobe on the wall. She had fallen asleep but woke an hour later to undress and hang her clothes in the wardrobe. A smile spread as the door opened, revealing they were now cleaned and restored by the magic.

Moving to dress in a hurry, she paused to consider the tub and a pang of desire that gnawed deep inside; surely a quick bath wouldnt be a problem. A quick tiptoe, and she was beside the tall tub, running a hand down the marbled side. It worked like any bath in the real world with simple round handles to turn that produces clear hot water. There were three bowls beside the tub that she sniffed to discover they were scented oils. Carefully she dipped her fingers into one that smelled of roses and ran those fingers in the water as the tub filled. A scented white foam formed at the surface and she could no longer resist slipping in.

The warm water soothed every muscle as she slipped to her shoulders below the bubbles. The soft flavor of rose scented the air as her eyes closed to enjoy the moment.

Maybe I could enjoy this place a little, she said while leaning back. There was a convenient shelf a the back where three towels rested. She adjusted them to cradle her neck and sank to her chin into the soothing bliss.

Enjoying yourself? came a sultry voice as her eyes burst open to look into the hypnotic gaze of Blackbast, who stood beside the tub wearing only a scant cloth at her waist.

Where is your top? Heather yelled and looked away.

I left it in the other room. I dont wear it very often.

Well, you need to wear it now! Heather shouted. Why are you in my room?

Your friends were wondering where you were. I came to check on you and see if you needed anything, the woman said as she came to kneel beside the tub. There, my chest is below the rim where you cannot see it. Does that make you more comfortable?

Heather glanced back to see she was resting her chin over folded arms at the edge of the tub.

You were in the other room with my friends with no top on? Heather balked.

They did not seem to mind. Though some of them kept averting their eyes.

How can you be so brazen? Heather asked. Do you stalk every person who comes to your temple?

I do not stalk them, Blackbast said indignantly. I extend the invitation and assure them I am eager to provide the service.

You make it sound like your nothing more than a saleswoman, Heather laughed.

Perhaps, but I have nothing to sell. I am simply enjoying myself and, in the process, helping others to enjoy themselves as well. Have I really committed such a crime that you cannot accept me?

Heather had to chew on that thought a moment and realized that no, she hadn't done anything but be honest about her intentions. Just like her revelations about Frank and his friendship, she now realized Blackbast was more real and genuine than most of her friends back home. She didn't hide her motives in layers of false meaning while manipulating from behind the scenes. In a way, Heather admired it but still couldn't believe how easily this woman embraced it.

Look, Im sorry. Its just I have had a sort of rude awakening of late when it comes to friendship and love. I havent been myself since setting foot in this world, and I am struggling to find out who I am.

Blackbast looked on with a curious gaze taking it all in. I spoke with your friends for a good deal of time last night. They are very concerned about you, but they did not want to tell me why. They are keeping your secret close to heart, protecting you from some danger.

Heather was relieved to know the others hadn't told her much. She leaned back and let the warm water do its job as she tried to think of what to say. This was a friend of Iskathet who was herself a ghoul. Maybe she could be trusted to know a little bit about what was going on? But then again, they hardly knew this woman or how strong a friendship she had with Iskathet. After all, the bounty on her head was so high people claimed it would buy kingdoms.New novel chapters are published on

You are thinking, Blackbast said. From what little I managed to piece together from your friends, this is something of an obsession with you. You are constantly thinking, trying to pull at a myriad of threads and weave them into a pattern that makes sense.

You really are observant, Heather remarked.

It comes with my role, the cat woman replied.

Heather opened her eyes to look into those green orbs and smiled slightly. So, what is your role exactly?

I am a priestess of the goddess Bastet. She is based on the Egyptian goddess of cats, but here in this world, she has other attributes.

Like what?

Blackbast smiled as her eyes narrowed slightly, sending a shiver down Heather's spine.

She is the goddess of charm and seduction. One who seeks to free other people's desires.

Heather laughed and looked away as Blackbast folded her arms.

I'm sorry, I just can't believe anybody would pick that to play.

Do not be so judgmental. Before I came here, I lived a life devoid of passion or love. I spent a great deal of time fantasizing about what it would be like if I were free to love and be loved. Then New Eden came, and I saw a chance to reinvent myself and bring those dreams to life. I have no regrets about who I am or what I do. I have never been so free in my life, and many of those I touch with that freedom thank me.

Heather cleared her throat and let out a deep sigh. I am sorry. I dont mean to be so rude. I swear its a defense mechanism to drive away anybody who makes me uncomfortable. The truth is, I kind of envy what you just said. I sometimes dream about letting go and just embracing the same sort of thing. I even considered staying here and joining your temple.

What is stopping you? Blackbast purred. You have nothing to fear from disease or pregnancy. You are free to indulge to your heart's content.

But that just isn't me, Heather sighed. Sometimes, I don't even know what is me.

I learned this from your friends as well. You are having some kind of conflict of identity. The goblin woman was particularly vocal that you are two people instead of one.

Umtha, Heather groaned and wondered what nonsense she might have blurted out while Blackbast asked questions.

Do not be too harsh on her. She, like the others, is very concerned about you. They all feel you are under a great deal of pressure, perhaps even danger.

I am, and I cant tell anyone about it, Heather said. I have to solve this myself.

Blackbast blinked her eyes and put her hand to the side of the tub. Hmm, I would love to help you forget about it for a little while, but I already know you will reject me. Perhaps I could offer you something less intimate. Would you like a hair wash?

A hair wash? Heather said almost excitedly. Blackbast smiled and sat back as Heather blushed to realize how eagerly she had taken the bait.

Move to the side of the tub and turn your back to me, Blackbast said as she got up and headed to a table along the wall. Heather did as she was told as the cat woman picked up a metal bowl and a jar of some kind. She returned with a stool and sat beside the tub as she arranged her items.

The bowl was dipped into the tub to scoop up the water before Blackbast put a gentle hand to Heather's head. She urged Heather to tip her head back and then poured the water over her long golden hair.

Your friends know your secret, Blackbast said as she filled the bowl again and began to pour once more.

They were all there as it happened, Heather replied. They have stood by my side as everything fell apart. Sometimes I don't know why they stayed. It was my fault it fell apart in the first place. I made so many bad decisions.

You were able to test your friends and find out they would stand at your side even when things were bad. I would say your decisions have born fruit, not nettles.

Heather smiled at the woman's unique way of looking at it. She supposed the troubles did prove her friends were true and, more importantly, proved to herself that she cared about them. She lost her ability to focus on it as two gentle hands came to her head and began to work the oil into her hair.

Relax those burdens for a bit, Blackbast urged. Focus on my hands and enjoy this moment of respite.

Heather did as she was told and closed her eyes, focusing on the gentle touch of those practiced hands. She nearly jumped when Blackbast carefully used her claws to comb through her hair, gently teasing her scalp.

Youre very good at this, Heather admitted.

I have had lots of practice. Many travelers use the road and know that my temple is eager to provide them with hospitality. It is unusual if I don't see a dozen or more guests in a week.

And you, you know, help them all?

All of them who will let me, the sultry woman replied. You must be careful never to force yourself on one who is unperceptive like yourself.

Heather winced at those words and was reminded of Quinny calling her a prude.

I can feel you flinch even though I cannot see your face. Do not be ashamed of who you are. For individuals like you, I find other ways to be of service. For example, a simple hair wash to give them a moment away from their worries.

You are unique, Heather replied. I am glad to have met you.

Blackbast laughed and began to rub at Heathers scalp with her paws. I am who I am, nothing more. I am not ashamed of who I am, just as you should not be ashamed of who you are. That we dont share the same desires is no reason we cannot be friends.

Heather sighed as her scalp was rubbed just firmly enough to massage her skin. She wondered why she found it so hard to let go and wondered if she could ever do what Blackbast did.

You are thinking again, Blackbast said. Focus on my touch, not your thoughts.

Heather smiled as her head felt relaxed and the tensions melted from her shoulders. Blackbast gathered her long hair and piled it on her head, working the soapy oil into the mass until it was thoroughly washed. Then the bowl returned to the tub, and she began to rinse, carrying away Heather's stress with the soap. Once she was rinsed, Blackbast wrung out the hair, squeezing the water away and leaving it hanging just outside the tub to dry.

There, Blackbast said at last as Heather sat in the center of the tub.

Thank you, Heather sighed, but her jaw dropped as those warm hands came around her shoulders. They rubbed with practiced precision, her thumbs pressing up the back of Heather's neck.

If I am going too far, you have only to ask me to stop, Blackbast said. I have a good many points spent on massage if you are interested. I can set up a blanked on the table and give you a full rub down, from the top of your head to the soles of your feet.

Heather smiled and laughed as her shoulders continued to be rubbed.

You aren't going to give up, are you? she asked.

I am not sure I want to come now. Convince me you want me to come with, Blackbast teased.

You are terrible! Heather groaned. Please, I want you to come with us!

Are you certain? You seemed rather hesitant a moment before.

Please! I beg you, come with us! Heather practically shouted as Blackbast released her foot.

Very well, since you asked so nicely, Blackbast relented and released her foot. She returned to Heather's shoulders and began to rub firmly, slowly restoring the strength to her arms. You should be able to move again. I hope I didn't frighten you.

Heather dredged herself up and sat on the edge of the table, clutching a town to her front side.

No, and I feel so good. I have to admit you are amazing.

If only you had let me do more, the sultry woman said and turned away. I will leave you alone for now. There is food in the main chamber and something akin to lemonade if you are thirsty. Of course, there is plenty of wine if you want it, Blackbast said and walked past the bed. She noticed Webster standing at the end looking up at her, so she stopped and leaned over. You are adorable. Take good care of your mistress. He chirped, and Blackbast headed out, shutting the door behind her.

What just happened? Heather groaned and put her head in her hands. I feel like she was planting thoughts in my mind.

Webster chirped and nestled into her side as she put an arm around him and stroked at his back.

She is very convincing, Heather said to him. There was a moment there where I wondered if I might kiss her.

He chirped once more, and Heather smirked. Silly spider, I am not making her my girlfriend. Now let me clear my head, I have a lot to do today, and I am starving again.

She brushed her hair at the mirror and then quickly dressed, donning her yellow outfit that was now in perfect condition. Deciding to go barefoot, she made her way out of the room to hear a conversation in the larger chamber. She arrived to find her friends all sitting around the food table as Blackbast poured Breanne a wine and told a story.

Well, good morning, Quinny said with a bright smile. Heather noted that none of them were in their disguises anymore. Quinny was even wearing a black dress that hung loose on her shoulders and barely reached below her waist. Heather was about to question the outfit when Blackbast looked up and smiled ever so slightly.

Ahh, so you have finally chosen to come out. Would you care for something to eat?

Yes, Heather said in a firm voice, thankful that Blackbast had a wrap over her chest. I was going to eat some of the fruit.

Oh, the fruit is just an appetizer. Come now, this is breakfast. I have some bacon and eggs already made. Do you like hash brown potatoes? The voice reeked of pleading the urged Heather to accept the offer.

Is this a restaurant? Heather stammered and looked to the others.

She is an excellent cook, Breanne said. She puts cheese and spices in the hash browns.

Yes, please, Heather replied in an instant, then settled in beside the others as Blackbast hurried away. She waited until the woman was gone to turn narrow eyes on her companions.

So what happened last night after I went to bed?

Nothing, Frank said quickly as Quinny nearly choked on a laugh.

Nothing you say, Heather replied and looked at Quinny. What about you?

I had a lot of fun last night, Quinny admitted and laid back on a cushion. That woman is amazing with those hands.

Please dont talk about this, Breanne scolded. You two were far too friendly.

I couldnt help myself, Frank said. It was like she was hypnotizing me.

Thats funny, Heather said as she thought back to those green eyes. I find her difficult to resist as well.

Some of us didnt resist at all, Breanne remarked with a firm glare at Quinny.

Quinny smiled and tossed her hair unashamed of the accusation. Why resist? I dont mind a little attention.

Did you have to start wearing her clothing? Breanne asked as if the very idea were scandalous.

Quinny smiled and reached for a nearby wine glass, taking a sip before answering. She insisted. Honestly, this is the tamest outfit I could find. You should see what she wanted me to wear for her. She has a whole wall of collars and straps.

Let's talk about something else, Heather insisted as she looked to Frank. She wanted to ask him if he had done anything but realized it wasn't any of her business. Still, something about it made her feel jealous, as if somebody might be trying to take him away. It was such a petty notion especially considering her own beliefs, but she couldn't help but feel it. Where are Legeis and Umtha?

Outside, Breanne said. Neither of them felt comfortable in here. He said his armor was too bulky to be walking around such a delicate space, and Umtha found the womans charms disturbing.

She isn't so bad, Heather admitted. She is good with her hands. She looked up as the room went silent and noticed all eyes were turned to her.

No wonder Blackbast was gone so long this morning, Quinny laughed. She was entertaining Heather.

No, she wasn't! Heather cried. We were just talking.

Then how do you know about her hands? Quinny demanded with a pointed finger. Unless you let them wander.

I did not! she countered and then thought back to what did happen. Alright, maybe a little.

Ha! Quinny burst out as Breanne shook her head.

You of all people, she began.

It isnt what youre thinking, Heather insisted. She gave me a massage and nothing more. She was just looking for an excuse to talk.

She is very good at questions, Frank said. Legeis steered Umtha outside because she kept insisting you were not Heather.

She told me about it, Heather admitted. She also agreed to lead us to the library and accompany us across the desert.

Breanne and Frank exchanged worried looks before the elven woman glared.

I assume you told her we were traveling alone.

Heather squirmed under their gaze and admitted that Blackbast had persuaded her to let her come. She didn't want to admit how that persuasion had happened and was grateful nobody asked. Breanne was insistent they needed to deal with the egg first and return afterward to visit the library. Heather argued that Blackbast said it was nearby and that finding out where it was would ease her mind.

Breanne relented but pointed out that Umtha would likely have something to say about it. Just as Heather went to respond, Blackbast returned with a silver tray loaded with enough food to feed five people.

Just eat what you wish, she cooed and looked to Quinny. Oh, you took the wrist cuffs off.

Heather nearly choked on her bacon as Quinny smiled and produced one of the cuffs from the cushions. You didnt lock them, she teased.

Blackbast practically crawled over the cushions, moving gracefully until she could put her hands on the sides of Quinny's face. She gave her a gentle lick on the nose and looked deep into her eyes as Quinny shook.

When I put those back on, I will lock them so firmly you will never escape.

Quinny smiled and went to reply, but Blackbast's ears suddenly perked up, and she jerked to her feet and stared to the doorway.

Stay here, and do not come out, she said as she scrambled to get to her feet.

Is something wrong? Frank asked.

We have another visitor, an undead but not like you. He feels different somehow. He feels angry.

Heather dropped her food and turned to watch as Blackbast hurried for the large doors of the temple. The others didn't need any coaxing as they scrambled to their feet and ran after her. A moment later, they arrived at the door to see Blackbast holding her arms wide with hands glowing with white light.

Turn back, creature! she shouted. This is blessed ground, and you are not welcome here!

Something moved at the far edge of the outer yard. It stood like a man in black plate armor. One hand was dragging a poled cart while the other clutched a serrated sword. As Heather's eyes went wide, the sword burst into green flames as the beast dropped the cart and bellowed a threat.

Out of my way! it roared like a voice from a deep well.

Its your bone champion! Frank said in alarm as the skeleton charged, his sword going high to cut Blackbast in two.

Heather reacted instantly, running past the priestess to stand before her with arms waving in the air. I command you to stop! she shouted. The bone champion came to a halt and looked down, green fire dancing in empty eye sockets as he looked on Heather.

As you command, master, he replied and stood passively.

Master? Blackbast repeated as Heather turned back to see those green eyes that had been so hypnotic and seductive were now narrow and calculating.

I can explain, Heather began, but Blackbast shook her head.

So now it makes sense, the cat-woman said as she lowered her glowing hands. No wonder you travel with such unusual friends; youre a necromancer!