HTN 5-25 (Old abandoned version)

This is an old version of the chapter I scrapped because so many people hated it. Look up the list for the new chapter 25 to see the new improved story arc.

Heather stepped out of the portal and into the temple as her mind worked on a solution. She needed to be sure she trusted Blackbast but wasn't sure how to figure that out. She went to the temple's doorway and looked into the gardens to see Frank, Legeis, Umtha, and Blackbast discussing the palanquin. She overheard Legeis say it was in good condition save for being full of sand and missing all its pillows. There was a brief discussion about carrying it, and Frank explained how Heather went about it, using plant-covered skeletons they could pass off as nature spirits.

Blackbast didn’t care for the idea, suggesting it was a risk and that somebody with a turn undead could easily cause problems. She offered a solution of her own, stating she knew how to lift and carry the device without drawing any attention. They discussed pillows and comfort as well as food, but Blackbast had an answer to that too. She would provide cushions from the temple. Some blankets from the room and would travel with them across the sands. She could summon food and water to provide for them until they safely reached the other side.

Heather could see the woman meant well and showed a sense of concern for their plan. She decided it might be time to share something with her and see how she felt about it. Heading inside, she discovered Breanne and Quinny had come through the portal and were now sitting at the low table talking.

She spoke with them just a moment before going to the back and digging out her backpack. At the bottom was the small silver crown with horns and the large green gem set in the center. She inspected the simple device, running a finger over the stone as it glowed briefly. It was an unusual device in that it changed her race to something infernal, giving her all the powers that belong to it. It also gave her an ability that had proven to be of great use. She could teleport short distances to any location she could see or had just seen, provided she pictured it in her mind. This allowed her to move about in rapid attacks giving her a huge advantage in battle.

Dropping the crown into the pack, she slung it over one shoulder only to feel a tapping at her leg. Down below was Webster, her familiar and in many ways a friend. He was a woolly jumping spider the size of a cat, and she had grown to love him. Picking him up in one arm, she held him close as she walked through the temple and made her way outside.

Blackbast was finishing with the boys and on her way to go inside when Heather stopped her.

“Can I talk to you about something important?” Heather asked.

“Of course you can, my sweet slave,” the woman replied, causing Heather to tense. She suggested they walk around the gardens as this was a sensitive topic. Blackbast agreed, and Heather set Webster down following as Blackbast led her away from the boys to the far side of the gardens.

“So what is so important that you wished such secrecy?” Blackbast asked.

Heather took her pack off and fished out the crown, and handed it to Blackbast.

“This is,” Heather said. “I found this in a magical pocket, kind of like the room through Endril’s door.”

“It is a funny crown,” Blackbast said as she turned it about. “What is so special about it?”

Heather explained how it was found and, more importantly, what happened when she put it on. She went into great detail about the space it was in, how it crumbled away, and what the goblins claimed when they saw her wearing it. She was careful to point out that the crown could only be removed during a full moon at its peak. She described the powers she gained from it and then took a moment to pause.

“What are you not telling me?” Blackbast asked

“It isn't safe to put on,” Heather said. “I have worn it a few times with no side effects, but twice something took over my mind. I blacked out, and this other person took control of my body, talking and acting as if it had always been me. That dragon knight and his dragon recognized this person as a great enemy from the past. Worse, when my friends tried to remove the crown, she fought back, doing all she could to prevent it while screaming that I had not only agreed to let her help me but that I needed her help.”

“I see,” Blackbast said. “So your friends have had to battle this woman several times?”

“No, just once,” Heather replied. “I put a simple recall spell on it. The second time I put it on, I used the spell to call it from my head and cheat the protection, but doing so makes me blackout.”

“Hmmm, once again, we see how you like to cheat the rules,” Blackbast said as she turned the crown over in her hands. “This sounds like a domination device. Like my collar, if you found a way to cheat the hold of a permanent collar, you would pass out, giving me a chance to reacquire you. You are rather clever at breaking the rules. How interesting that you found a simple way to cheat such a device.”

“As I said, I have a skill for bending or breaking the rules, which leads me to why I am showing you this.” She looked to Blackbast, whose ears went up in a curious expression.  This was putting a tremendous amount of trust in a woman she hardly knew, but the opportunity here was too good to pass up.

“I want you to use the control of your collar to dominate me while I wear the crown.”

Blackbast looked aghast at the idea and took a step back.

“Why would I do such a thing? I am not going to put you in danger like that.”

“I need you to do it because we have questions that need answering, and the woman in the crown might be able to answer them. If I am under your control, she can't run, and she has to answer you. We could finally learn something useful and maybe get closer to understanding what is going on.”

Blackbast looked angry and paced a few steps away, her tail twitching in aggravation.

“Is this the only reason you agreed to wear the collar? You have no intention of learning about being a slave to me? You only wanted to explore the possibility of using its power to counter that of the crown.”

“I can't be a slave,” Heather protested. “I admit I am somewhat enticed by the notion of not being a necromancer anymore but is this any better?”

Blackbast whirled around and ripped the collar from Heather's neck.

“Hey! I need that!” Heather protested, but Blackbast stepped away.

“This is for those who wish to learn how to serve others and be loved in return. You have no such desires and therefore no reason to wear it. All you care about is using the power of the collar to bend the rules in your favor. You were right when you said you like to break the rules. What you plan to do is an abuse of the system, and you want me to help you do it. I don't want to be involved in this plan.”

“Why is this such a big deal?” Heather asked. “All I am asking you to do is keep control of me while the crown is on so we can get some answers.”

Blackbast clutched the collar in a fist and waved it in Heather’s face.

“This is not a toy to be used for your own devices. This is a sacred responsibility, and it is one I have never failed to do. You see this as a tool; I see it as an oath of service and love, a gift being given to me by the one who wears this. It is to be cherished and cared for with all the love and compassion I can muster. Being a master is a terrible responsibility that no one should take lightly! I offered you this collar out of love, but you accepted it as a means to an end.”

Heather looked frustrated but held her ground as she folded her arms in an angry frown.

“I am sorry I can't appreciate it as you do. I am already a prisoner in this world, and all I care bout is getting out!”

“Out?” Blackbast laughed. “I realize you were forced into this world, but nobody has ever gotten out. No wonder your path is so laden with stumbling blocks. You are wasting your life hunting for something that doesn't exist.”

“I know it exists,” Heather countered. “And I am not giving up unless I find a good reason to stay.”

“Well, at least I can admire your dedication to yourself,” Blackbast growled. “But what about your friends? What happens to them when you leave?”

“What does any of that have to do with me?” Heather protested.

“You are either blind or willfully ignorant,” Blackbast countered. “Frank has feelings for you, as does the zombie girl though she is more careful about showing it. Even your Breanne shows a measure of affection, an almost motherly desire to protect you.”

“They are my friends,” Heather protested. “I happen to care about them too.”

“Oh, words are easy, but how has this caring showed itself?” Blackbast asked. “It seems all they talk about is going where you need to go. They discuss how to keep you fed, watered, and carried in luxury while they walk through the heat and fight everything off.”

“You're not being fair!” Heather protested. “I have risked my life for them, especially Frank! I didn't demand they come with me, they volunteered, and I feel bad about that. To be honest, the only thing I like about being a necromancer is the help I can give them. I have mixed emotions about Frank all the time, and I feel close to both Quinny and Breanne.”

Blackbast was quiet as she digested Heather's words. Finally, she turned away and looked down at the collar in her hands.

“I wish I could keep you here for a year and teach you how to serve. It would do you a world of good to learn how to obey and put others before you.” She paused, drawing out the moment as Heather fumed. “I cannot put such a yoke on you because your friends, especially Frank, would be devastated.”

“What can I do to convince you to help me?” Heather asked.

“You do not have the strength of character to do it,” Blackbast replied.

“You have no idea what I have the strength to do,” Heather countered. “I will do anything.”

“Have you told your friends about this foolish plan?” Blackbast asked.

“No, I wanted to know what you thought first.”

Blackbast nodded and held the collar up so Heather could see it. “And you do realize that you will have to put this on permanently in order for me to have control.”

“Why?” Heather said in shock. “I just need it on long enough for you to ask the questions.”

Blackbast whirled around on her and glared at her with rage in her eyes.

“And what is to prevent this other person from takingthe collar off? The only way we can be sure she won’t escape with your body is if she can’t escape at all!”

Heather nodded and paced a few steps. She had considered this briefly, wondering if permanent slavery would ensure better control. Now she knew Blackbast was right; it was too easy to escape the collar unless it was on for good. Thankfully she had a plan for that too.

“Alright, fine, we put it on for good, then when we have the answers, you can command me to do something that breaks the collar's power.”

“Have you listened to nothing I said?” Blackbast shouted as her tail lashed. “You are asking me to betray everything I hold sacred. Why should I do that for you who has no appreciation for the gift this collar is?”

“People see it as a gift?” Heather laughed.

“This is why you are unworthy of it!” Blackbast snapped back. “You have no concept of the magic and power of giving yourself to another. There is beauty in putting your faith and trust in another being to care for and love you. There is a sacred love that exists between master and slave, one so special and unique that words cannot describe it. They share a heart of power, love, and gratitude for one another that cannot be experienced any other way.”

“You do make it sound beautiful, but I am terrified by the idea,” Heather admitted.

“That is what makes it so special,” Blackbast said. “Try to imagine what it will feel like to overcome that fear and fall at a master's feet in submission. Feel the collar around your neck and the click of a leash as you become theirs forever. No longer will you worry about what to wear, eat, or do. Your day will be dictated to you, and your purpose given to you by another. The only thing you will do wholly of yourself is to commit your heart and obey.”

Heather let out a staggered breath as she tried to imagine being at Blackbast’s feet.

“Good,” Blackbast said. “Now, drop to your knees and hold the image.”

Heather didn't understand why she did it, but she fell to her knees and focused on the image of a collar on her neck. Just as she visualized it, she felt soft hands reaching around her neck. Something pulled against her skin, and there was a “click!”

“Well done,” Blackbast purred. “You have been collared, as I claim you as mine. Now, bow your head and imagine a leash being attached so that you were forever linked to your master.”

Heather did as she was told once again, and there was a tug as Blackbast pulled her hair aside. A moment later, something else clicked, and her head was pulled up by the collar.

“look at me,” Blackbast demanded in a firm tone.

Heather opened her eyes to see the hypnotic green gaze staring back. Blackbast held a hand to one side with a leather leash running down to disappear on Heather’s shoulder. Her heart began to beat as she realized she was leashed, a strange sense of emotions mixing in her heart.

“How do you feel?”

“Terrified,” Heather replied.

“Good,” Blackbast purred as she looked down and reached out to stroke the back of Heather’s head. “This is the position of a slave to her master. If you only understood how much love a master has for her slave, you would not fear this at all.”

“But surely people abuse this,” Heather said. “Once you have complete control, you could make me do anything, even torture me. I don’t believe you would ever do that, but I know other people would.”

Blackbast nodded and continued to stroke. “You are right, and masters do abuse their charges, but there are mechanics that will free a slave who is abused and forbid the master from reclaiming them. We are allowed to discipline a slave, but if they are abused, the system will step in and heal the slave completely while also surrounding them in a golden glow. They will be invulnerable to anything until they are a safe distance away from their master. Any doors, barriers, or locks placed in the way will open so the slave cannot be prevented from leaving. If the master tries to stop the slave, they will be burned. If they try to strike the slave, they will feel the strike instead magnified tenfold. If they order others or hire people to drag the slave back, those individuals that try will be struck down and forced into a long respawn of a full day. Thus allowing the slave to continue fleeing. Once this has happened, nobody can bring those two back together.”

“What about slaves that are emotionally abused?” Heather asked.

“Those are handled differently,” Blackbast said. “If a slave is emotionally harmed, or just plain miserable under a master, the system will eventually detect this, and one day the collar will fall off. No matter what may be tried, that slave will never be able to wear that master's collar again.”

“So they will just go out and get somebody else to abuse,” Heather argued.

Blackbast tugged at the leash and started to walk, leading Heather into the garden as she spoke.

“Even that has been considered,” she said. “The visitors seem to understand the concept of slavery but do not like how it can be abused. They put in place a system where if a master loses three slaves in one year because of mistreatment, be it physical, emotional, or neglect. They will lose their class. They will one day be stripped of the class and discover they have been reset. All of the domination classes will be removed from their class selection screen, preventing them from picking another.”

“Really?” Heather asked. She was surprised the visitors went to such great lengths to protect the slave. That was an insight she was keen to analyze because it showed some concept of how they thought. She wondered why this principle wasn't applied to the wider world to prevent players from abusing one another. Her mind began to reel with the possibilities that much could be learned about the visitors just by analyzing how they protected players.

“What if a slave just changes her mind?” Heather asked. “What if I did commit, but a year from now, I regretted it and couldn't be happy anymore?”

“You do think about these things deeply,” Blackbast commented with a nod. “In a case like that is very similar to emotional abuse. If the slave is unhappy to the point of misery, the system will detect it, and one day the collar will fall off. However, it will not be counted against the master, as a slave changing her mind isn't the master's fault. For this reason, we are very careful about who we choose to be our slaves.”

“So there are all sorts of ways out of a permanent collar,” Heather stated. “But they all involve the slave being in some sort of pain.”

“No master wants a miserable slave,” Blackbast said. “We all derive some measure of power from every slave we own but only if they are happy. If the slave is unhappy, we have a debuff of sorts.”

Heather thought that was strange until she dug into it a little deeper.

“So you are encouraged to care for and love your slaves? The system even rewards you for taking good care of them?”

“It does,” Blackbast replied and led her to a bench. “Please, sit with me.”

Heather sat beside her as Blackbast relaxed the leash a little. She eyed that narrow strip of leather with concern, wondering where this was all going.

“Are you still terrified to be leashed?”

“No,” Heather admitted now that she knew more about the system. “But I think I would prefer to be the one holding the leash.”

“I understand,” Blackbast replied and reached over to remove the collar. “I would love to keep you and treat you like a treasure, but this is perhaps not your path.”

“I hope that doesn’t upset you?” Heather asked, wondering if this was the end of her plan as the collar came off.

“Disappointed isa better word. You could use somebody to take charge of you and help you focus your efforts.”

“What do you mean help me focus my efforts?” Heather asked.

“I mean, you are trying to grab at a lot of loose threads. Your attention is too widely divided and you are getting nothing done. Were I your master, I would take it on myself to help you solve these problems. I would plan your efforts and assist you with every step. I would assign you tasks while working to keep it all organized as well as making sure you took time off to play.”

“You would do all that? But, you said we had to stay here,” Heather insisted. “I can’t do any of that from here.”

Blackbast nodded. “I am aware of that, but If you would let me take charge of you, I will go with you.”

Heather felt conflicted and looked away as she wrung her hands. “Blackbast, I am not like you. I can’t offer myself to others the way you do.”

“Is that what is bothering you?” Blackbast asked. “What if I promise you would not have to share yourself with strangers? I might ask you to pour their wine or smile and look pretty, but you won't have to share anything more.”

“I don't know,” Heather said. “What if I need to be a necromancer to finish what we started? What if Breanne is right when she says I was born to be this, and I have some role to play?”

“You would not be able to fulfill your purpose,” Blackbast agreed as she considered it.  “Well, in order to help you, the collar would have to become permanent. Your minions will go, as will your freedom. You will have to agree to obey me.”

“But you can let me out?” Heather insisted.

“I already told you how I feel about that. If you want my help with this ridiculous plan, go and gather your friends. You will explain it to them and then ask to be collared for good.” With that, she got up and left, leaving Heather stunned and wondering what to do.

Heather sat on that bench for a long time with her chaotic thoughts. Eventually, she got up and walked around the side, running into Frank coming the other way.

“There you are,” Frank said. “I was worried about you.”

Heather looked up and sighed. He was such a good guy. Why did she feel like pursuing a relationship was the wrong thing?

“I was talking to Blackbast,” Heather said and rubbed an arm. “Frank, what do you think about her offer?”

“You mean the collar?” he asked and paused. “I hate the idea, but for greedy reasons. I hate the idea that you would have to stay here, and we would be apart.”

“I hate that too, but she offered to come with and help us solve these problems,” Heather informed him, then paused to think of another question. “You're a good judge of character. What do you think about her as a person?”

Frank's long arms hung down so that his nails were able to claw at the ground as he pondered his answer.

“She seems genuine to me,” he said at last. “She isn't ashamed of what she is or does and even takes pride in it. I honestly think she only made that offer to give you a choice for a change. That being said, I like her, and I feel like we can trust her.”

Heather nodded and ran a hand across her bare neck, almost missing the collar. “I keep wondering if it would be better to have it on.”

Frank scratched at his head with a long nail and let out a sigh. “I want you to do what makes you happy.”

“I know you do,” Heather replied. “But this has grown beyond me. You and the others are being affected now, and I can't stand it. All you want to do is build your lairs and play with adventurers when they come calling, but look where you're at? Chasing after another one of my stupid mysteries to help me deal with my past.”

“Heather, that doesn't matter,” Frank insisted.

Heather looked into his yellow eyes that no longer horrified her. She could even see the way his face contorted and showed expression, this one of worry. “I need you to go inside and sit with the others. I have something I want to share with you all.’

He nodded and headed away as Heather tossed over the decision in her mind. Was she doing the right thing? Could she trust Blackbast?

She waited until he was gone and then made her way around the front, finding Legeis and Umtha still cleaning out the palanquin. What did Legeis owe her anyway? Sure she turned his armor into a golem, but he helped her recover the stone. They were even, and yet he stayed on, helping where he didn't have to. It was the kind of behavior she wished more players shared. Now that she thought about it, Frank insisted players did behave like this, and she had a poor start with them because of Moon.

She informed them that she needed them to go inside so she could talk to them all and sent them ahead as she struggled with doubt. Was this even about her anymore? Weren't her friends more important now? Maybe Blackbast was right, and this had been about herself long enough. Maybe she could use the help the woman was offering? She entered the temple with a spinning mind and timidly made her way to the center of the room. All eyes looked up as she looked down, unable to face them as she struggled with her decision.

“Oh, thank goodness you took that silly thing off,” Breanne said as Heather continued to twist.

“We have to talk about that,” Heather started, but Blackbast stood up and made her way to Heather. She stood before Heather and lifted her chin with a soft hand.

“What are you doing?” Blackbast asked.

Heather swallowed and tried to look away. “What you said I had to,” she replied.

“You are prepared for the consequences?” Blackbast asked. “You understand what you are doing?”

Heather nodded as Blackbast turned and stood at her side, putting an arm around her shoulder.

“Then you need to tell them,” she said.

All eyes went to Heather as she explained her idea and how she hoped to get solid answers from the presence in the crown. She made sure to impress on them that with the collar on, this person couldn't run or avoid answering. They would have the means to learn things they would never have otherwise.

The group was stunned for a moment until Quinny spoke up and pointed out the plan was brilliant. Legeis agreed, and Umtha was excited for the crown going back on. Frank and Breanne were skeptical but willing to listen as she tried to explain her hopes.

“Well,” Frank said. “I guess this is one way to get answers.”

“It comes with one catch,” Heather said and turned to Blackbast.  She felt terrible knots in her stomach as she looked at the woman who stared back. “Will you please make your slave,” she paused to take one last look at her friends, then turned back to Blackbast. “Permanently.”

“What!” Breanne shouted as she rose. “This is ridiculous. Why can't you wear the collar as it is and do this?”

“Because the entity in the crown will be able to take it off,” Blackbast said with a glance to Breanne. “This will be a battle of control, and the only way I can be sure this being can’t escape with Heather is if there is no way to escape at all.”

Breanne looked aghast but nodded atthe logic before waving it off. “Then forget this foolish plan. We can find answers another way.”

Frank stood up and spoke next, asking her if she really wanted to do this?

Heather lowered her face as she took a deep breath. “Frank, look at our lives? We are running blind down a dozen different paths. I hate that I keep dragging you away from your lair because of my past. If wecan get good solid answers from this, maybe you and the others can go home. Isn't the price worth paying?”

“But you won’t come home,” he said. “You will belong to this temple. I won’t have you at my side anymore.”

Heather looked to Blackbast for a solution, but the woman was silent. Heather wasn't sure if she would bend the rules to set her free; certainly, her reaction in the yard said she detested the idea. She never agreed to release her and reiterated she wanted no part of bending the rules. Surely that was meant to impress on Heather what she was asking, not a final no.

“I. I have to try,” Heather said as she fought against tears. “This is our best chance to learn the things we need to know.”

The group was silent until something tapped at Heather's leg, and she looked down to see Webster. She realized that if that collar went on for good, he would be gone. The tears broke loose as she reached down to pick him up, clutching him to her chest as she told him she was sorry about what was going to happen.

Quinny leaned over to Breanne and pointed to the display in shock. “Is this a good idea?”

“I have no way to answer that,” Breanne replied. “She's right. It is a way to get answers we would never have gotten before, but at what cost? I don't care about the answers; I don't want her to do this.”

“She's going to lose all her power,” Quinny said. “She won't even need the answers if she puts that collar on for good.”

Frank got up and walked across the room, coming to Heather as she set Webster down. He took her hand and looked down as she continued to cry.

“Heather, I want you to know I won't be angry,” he said.

“Angry about what?” she asked with a trembling lip.

He took a deep breath and tried to steady his voice. “I won't be angry about the things you will have to do, you know, here in the temple. I want you to be happy and not worry about us.”

Heather started to shake her head even before he finished.

“No, no, no,” she sobbed. “Frank, I'm not like that. Please, don't ever think of me like that.” She turned to Blackbast in frustration as her pain ran wild. “Will you please put an end to this. Will you tell me you will release me after the job is done. Why are you frightening me like this?”

“Because you need to understand what it is you are asking of me. You want me to be like you and flaunt the rules for your benefit. You only wore this collar so you could test its power and see if it would be a useful tool for your goals.”

“I did that because I'm desperate!” Heather pleaded. “Do you have any idea what it's like to be kidnapped and then imprisoned in an alien world? Do you know what it's like to find out that your past might have been erased? Do you have any concept of what it's like to keep asking the people you love to take terrible risks for you in some vain hope to find answers? I can't keep doing this to them. I will do anything, anything to bring this to an end so they can stop running. I don't even care about what happens to me anymore. I just want them to be able to go home and befree from the danger I bring wherever I go.”

Heather turned away as her tears continued to fall. She continued sobbing until startled by a pair of arms that wrapped around her from behind.

“I love you too,” Quinny said as he held on tight.

Heather looked up as Breanne put a hand to her shoulder and shed tears of her own. “I feel the same way; I will go with you anywhere you need to go.”

Umtha hugged her from the other side as Frank took her hand again and carefully tried to caress it.

“I love you,” he said in a tone very different to Quinny’s.

“Oh, Frank, I'm sorry,” she began, but he leaned in carefully to hug her and not crush anyone else.

“I don't care if we have to keep running, or I hardly ever spend time at home. So long as I'm with you, I'm happy.”

“We all are,” Breanne said and looked to the wall where Legeis stood awkwardly alone.

“I don't feel like I should be hugging anyone, but if it means anything, I am kinda fond of her too. She's a good person stuck in a bad situation, and I hate to see her cry,” he said.

Heather was overcome by the display of affection and was doubly surprised when a gentle hand began to stroke her head.

“Be at peace,” Blackbast said. “I will help you with this. You made some mistakes, but your heart is in the right place, and your friends love you very much. I will bend the rules to release you from the collar, but only after you complete your task with the egg.”

“What?” Heather asked. “But you said I couldn't be away from you.”

“No, you can't. That is why I said I am coming with you,” Blackbast replied. “You will be my slave girl as punishment for your foolishnessuntil we reach the other side. I will not make you do anything that would violate your sense of self, but you will call me master and bow to my command.”

Heather took a deep breath and agreed to her terms. Blackbast took her aside while the others sat down and explained what would happen next. First, Heather made a public vow to serve Blackbast, the temple, and its guests. She vowed to obey Blackbast as her owner and gave up any rights to herself.

Blackbast then began a chant while holding the collar up with both hands. She prayed for Bastet to bless the collar and prepare it to bind a servant forever to her service. They watched in awe as the collar glowed with a soft red light before Blackbast held it out to Heather.

“You have to put it on yourself. No one can force this on you,” she said.

Heather reached out with trembling hands to take the collar. Blackbast handed it over, then moved to lift Heather's hair aside. With one last look to her friends, she placed it around her neck and snapped it into place, a red light suddenly coursing through her body.

“Now you are sealed, and the clock is ticking,” Blackbast said. “In five days, you are bound for good.”

“But you will bend the rules to get me out?” Heather asked.

Blackbast sighed and nodded her head. “For you, I will make this one exception, but consider what I am about to say. If you wish your friends to be free of the danger you represent, perhaps you should keep it on.”

Heather looked into those green eyes and nodded as Blackbast smiled.

Blackbast turned to the others and let them know she and Heather had spoken about the terms of her slavery. She would not be required to offer anythingto others and would more or less beherself. Blackbast would only be on hand to help her focus on tasks and prioritize her efforts. The goal was to tie up these loose ends and solve some of the mysteries.

“Are you ok?” Quinny asked as Heather wiped her eyes.

“I’m scared,” Heather said as she touched the collar.

Quinny reached up to touch the collar and then looked to Blackbast.

“I want one too,” she said. “I will wear one as long as Heather does.”

Blackbast looked at her with narrow eyes as her tail twitched. “I cannot afford to keep taking slaves who won’t be useful in the temple. I can’t offer you the same protection I have given her.”

“Fine,” Quinny replied. “I have no qualms about what you need from us.”

“Quinny, you don’t need to do this,” Heather protested.

“I want to,” Quinny replied. “If you have to wear that collar, then so do I. I will fill the role you can't, so the burden is off your shoulders. Besides, I kinda like the idea of being a slave sister.”

Heather wrapped her arms around Quinny, crying as she pleaded thank you over and over. Eventually, Quinny was turned loose as she turned to look Breanne in the eyes.

“Well?” Quinny asked.

“You can’t be serious?” Breanne remarked with a start.

“Blackbast said she had three collars,” Quinny reminded.

“Oh, Quinny, don’t put this on Breanne,” Heather pleaded.

“I agree,” Blackbast chimed in. “It is unfair to use your friendship to tangle her in this.”

Quinny shrugged and walked up to Breanne to look her in the eyes.

“You can take it off any time you want,” Quinny insisted.

“Why would I want to have it on in the first place?” Breanne argued. “What good am I to you all if my primary class is overridden?”

Quinny went to argue but suddenly stopped as thethought dawned on her.

“Wait, how do the collars work when your primary class is a racial class like zombie or banshee?” she asked, turning to Blackbast with a confused look.

“Races work differently,” Blackbast said in a smooth tone. “The collar cannot replace your race, so any racial abilities will be kept. You will lose access to additional powers you purchased with points, however. You will effectively be a level one version of your race.”

“So I will still be a zombie, but I won’t be able to summon my zombies,” Quinny said as she thought about it. “But I could always take the collar off if we needed them.”

“You could with my permission,” Blackbast corrected. “Remember you promised to wear it as long as Heather does. You are not free to take it off whenever you feel like it.”

“Right,” Quinny said slowly.

“See, you trapped yourself in your own words,” Breanne argued.

“I don’t care,” Quinny argued back. “So long as it helps Heather, I will wear it for years.”

“Well I don’t intend to wear one for minutes,” Breanne scoffed.

“Oh common,” Quinny groaned. “Think of the benefits? The collars make intimacy better. Think of the fun you could have, I know you didn't come into this world without considering the benefits of a young body and hoards of handsome men.”

Breanne blushed slightly at the remark but kept her composure as she cleared her throat. Heather looked at Blackbast who stood with arms folded, tail slowly swaying as she awaited the reply.

“Of course I considered it,” Breanne remarked. “I was old and well past the years where men sought my attention. This was a chance at a new life full of adventures.”

Quinny smiled and started to pace as she clasped her hands behind her back.

“And you had some of those adventures, didn't you? That's why you picked this race because it came with a beautiful elf maiden as one of its forms. You wanted to make sure you would have access to that attention you craved.”

Heather began to snicker as Breanne cleared her throat again and tried to sound haughty.

“It is perfectly normal for a woman of my age to desire some intimacy,” Breanne tried to argue. “And don’t make it sound like I am the only player who came in here with that in mind. I bet more than half the population was thinking about it.”

“I would wager far more than half,” Blackbast added. “I certainly did, and many of my guests tell me of their motivations. They came in here seeking the same thing.”

“See?” Breanne argued. “I have done nothing out of the ordinary.”

Quinny stopped to roll her eyes and point at Breanne. “Nobody is saying you did anything wrong. All I am saying is this is a new adventure for you to experience. Put the collar on with us and have some fun.”

“I would rather not,” Breanne said and folded her arms.

Quinny sighed as Blackbast laughed and came to her side.

“You cannot force the collar on one who doesn’t want it,” she said.

Quinny shrugged and looked to Heather. “I just thought it would be fun for all three of us to play along a bit. Think of how easy it will be to travel if we use the cover story that we are just three slave girls?”

“You can’t ask her to do this,” Heather said but smiled and stepped up to Quinny. “But thank you for sharing it with me.”

The two hugged as Blackbast perked up her ears and looked to the temple door.

“Why don’t you three come with me,” she said and motioned to Heather, Quinny, and Frank. “I will collar our zombie girl and find you something more fitting to wear.” She led the way leaving Breanne in confusion to wander back to the table.

“That was odd,” Breanne said and reached for a pitcher of wine.

“Heather too strong to be slave,” Umtha argued before sitting beside Legeis.

Breanne lifted the glass of wine and shook her head.

“Heather is too strong to pass up a chance to question the woman in the crown. We could learn so much about her past or what is really going on. Maybe even find a clue as to why she was working with Hathlisora.”

“She is Hathlisora!” Umtha insisted as Breanne rolled her eyes and took a sip.

“Excuse me!” called a distant but melodic voice.

Breanne turned around with a start to see a tall golden skinned elf with hair the color of sunlight that fell down his back in long curls. He had sharp features on a strong handsome face and carried himself with a noble grace.

“Is this a rest station on the desert trail?” he asked as his eyes met that of Breanne's.

She nearly choked on her wine and had to set it down before straightening her dress.

“It is a rest station of sorts,” she replied and took a few steps toward him. They met in the open space between the arches and he smiled while looking deep into her eyes.

“I didn’t expect to find such a rare flower in so desolate a place,” he said.

She smiled on reflex as her face felt hot. Nervously she glanced to where Legeis and Umtha sat watching and his gaze followed.

“Are those goblins?” he asked.

“Yes, please pay them no mind, they are guests of the temple.”

He smiled slightly and turned back to Breanne his eyes searching her for some clue. “And what kind of temple is this?”

Breanne couldn’t think of how to reply and wished Blackbast were here to manage the situation. She jumped when his hand took one of hers and began to caress the back of her hand.

“It’s a temple of service,” Breanne blurted out as he nodded gently.

“And do you work in this temple?” he asked.

“I,” she choked and cleared her throat. “I do.”

“I see, then would you honor me with your company?” he said softly. “Tell me all about your temple and what services are on offer.”

Breanne smiled and snatched her hand back only to feel around her neck as she looked to the back hall.

“Of course I will, but would you excuse me a moment? There is something I must put on before we begin.”

“Of course. I will be waiting right here for your return,” he whispered.

She smiled back and turned, walking briskly for the hall and vanishing from sight. She quickly searched for the others and found all four of them waiting at the back of the hall.

“There you are!” Breanne said in a huff. “I have changed my mind, I will wear a collar.”

Blackbast tilted her head to the side as Quinny and Heather giggled. Frank put a hand over his face as if embarrassed causing Breanne to look about the group.

“Why is this so funny?” she asked.

Blackbast stepped up and held up a hand dangling a black collar before Breanne’s face.

“This is yours, but only if you agree to wear it as long as Heather wears hers, and serve as Quinny does.”

Breanne reached up for it but paused as she heard the terms.

“Ridiculous,” she groaned. “I just want it for a little bit.”

“Those are my terms,” Blackbast purred. “I promise to take good care of you, my sweet elvish slave.”

The look of outrage that crossed Breanne’s face brought a new round of laughter from Heather and Quinny. She looked to the collar as Quinny teased her that she wasn’t brave enough to put it on.

“Fine, I accept your terms,” Breanne snapped as she looked back down the hall.

“Then this is for you,” Blackbast purred and held the collar out.

Breanne snatched it up and quickly pulled it around her neck, the click heard by everyone as Frank shook his head. She ran back down the hall and into the main chambers as the four watched her go.

“You should have told her you knew that man was coming,” Frank said.

“She needed the motivation,” Blackbast purred. “She wanted to wear one but was afraid to admit it.”

“I told you she was here for the men,” Quinny said.

“I never gave it anyconsideration,” Heather said. “I was so focused on getting out, but I guess I see where this world has some advantages.”

Blackbast turned on her with a wide toothy smile and ran a furry hand across her cheek. “Any time you wish to experience it, I will see to it you have many partners.”

“Not a chance,” Heather laughed. “I have only one goal, and that’s giving my friends a safe place to play free of the threat of being a necromancer.”

Blackbast leaned in so close her nose nearly touched Heather’s. “I thought you wanted out?”

“My friends come first,” Heather replied. “I want them to be safe, especially from me.”

“You have achieved your goal then because you are no longer a necromancer. Let me love you as my slave, and you will never carry that burden again.”

“Sorry, I prefer to be the one in control,” Heather countered.

“Oh, you are breaking this poor cat's heart, but I will honor our agreement. Now come, I have a surprise for you two that I think you will like.” With that she led them into her private room and shut the door, a minute later Quinny's laughter echoed down the hall as Heather cried. “I'm not wearing that!”