Heather the Necromancer

Book 6: Chapter 59: To hide the truth

Book 6: Chapter 59: To hide the truth

The sun rose, but the skies were gray as a steady rain beat down on the inn. Heather lay in bed, her mind racing as a million thoughts competed for attention. Recent events had changed her life immensely but offered new and exciting opportunities. Last night she had a dream carefully crafted by her lovers that left her breathless. Now all she wanted was a future for this new life, but everything was in jeopardy. Soon the local rulers would come to learn the truth and claim her head. She had devised a plan to deal with the impending arrival of her executioners, but they couldn't be certain it would work.

She knew she should be worried, but recent events had pushed this to the back of her mind. Not only had she married Zillix and Alexandria, but as of the night before, she was a harem girl in Rajeen's collection. It was all so rushed and wild as things spiraled out of control. Heather was desperate to take her mind off the doom quickly approaching, so she did something she had never imagined. Now there was a silver paw print on the left cheek of her rear, making her the tiger woman's property forever more.

She curled tighter to Breanne, who was holding Heather to her breast. She, too, had the mark, as did Quinny and Umtha, all the girls joining the harem as one. It had been a night to remember, but it felt like it went by in a blur. She didn't even remember going to bed or that the bed she had gone to was Rajeens.

The tiger was also asleep, curled around Umtha with Frank at her back. Flashes of memory of the night before played out in her mind screaming at her to be shocked, but deep down, she was happy. She was happy to be a part of something so rare and beautiful that it brought a tear to her eye. Frank was her husband, her master, and the head of their family. Rajeen was now one of her masters, and the tiger woman had vowed to love them with all her soul. She assured them that the harem would always be their home, and she would never fail to care for them.

Across the way, Blackbast was sitting in a plush chair before the window, watching the dark rain fall on a sleepy world. Quinny was asleep in her arms, her long devil tail twined around the cat woman. It all felt so peaceful and serine, a moment of change and love, unlike anything she had ever dared to dream. Yet, at some point, those who sought to test her lies would arrive, and the inquisition would begin.

She wondered how a moment of beautiful love could be overshadowed by such terrible dread. At least for now, she was safe in the arms of the woman she loved, and the day could wait. With eyes closed, she listened to the rain falling on the slate roof of the huge structure Rajeen called an inn. The gentle tapping soothed her soul and helped her mind slip into a happier place. She remembered playing in the rain as a child and how the water made puddles in her backyard. She recalled how her mother taught her to make little paper boats to sail in the flowing streams that crossed her backyard. That world seemed so far away, an almost alien place that never existed. Maybe that world had been the dream all along, and New Eden was where she had finally awakened.

A soft kiss brushed her cheek, and she opened her eyes to see love gazing down at her. Jaina leaned over the bed, smiling as Heather gazed back adoringly.

Sorry to wake you, Jaina whispered. I just wanted to know if you needed me to stand by you today.

I appreciate that, Heather whispered back. But I dont want them to scrutinize you because of me. Just being in the room for support will be enough.

Alright, Jaina whispered while bending low to kiss her forehead. I hope you enjoyed your dream.

I loved my dream, Heather sighed as it replayed in her mind. I hope I have more.

I am sure you will, Jaina promised. Now, go back to sleep, my dear sister. We will talk when its over.

Heather smiled under that kiss and watched her walk to Blackbast, where she stroked Quinny's head while they spoke. Jaina nodded in reply to something Heather didn't hear, then silently left the room. With eyes closed, she resumed listening to the rain, her mind drifting away once more. She was safe, she was loved, and no matter what happened, she would stand strong.

Heather? a voice called, rousing her from her blissful slumber. She opened her eyes and sat up to discover the rain was gone and the dark room now lit by light pouring through the window. Breanne was at the side of the bed with a small silver tray. On it were foods and treats laid out in colorful dishes.

Rajeen said you needed to eat, Breanne said before setting the tray on the bed.

What time is it? Heather asked as she sat up and discovered she and Breanne were the only two in the room.

Half past ten, Breanne replied. We agreed you should probably get a little extra sleep, so Gisley was called in to help keep you under.

Gisley has been very busy today, Heather laughed as Breanne shared her mirth with a smile.

She wanted to make sure you had the best night's rest any would have, Breanne said. She made my dreams rather interesting too.

Oh, Heather said as she looked at the tray loaded with sausage, bacon, seasoned mushrooms, cheeses, and little cakes. There was fresh bread still warm from the oven and a little bowl of whipped butter to spread with jam. Heather smiled at the lovely treat and looked at Breanne to see her smiling back.

Well, we did it, Breanne said.

Yes, Heather replied as she reached for a fork. We are officially harem girls.

They could have warned us about the mark, Breanne said as she turned her hip to reveal the silver paw print. That really hurt.

You heard what Jaina said to Quinny, Heather laughed. We couldnt find out how the mark was made until they made it. Probably because they knew it was going to hurt so much.

Branding us with magical irons is a little excessive, Breanne stated. But that honey they rubbed on it right after instantly took the pain away.

I am surprised it hurt, Heather said as she took a bite of sausage. We're devils. We are supposed to be immune to fire and heat.

That was some kind of magic. I doubt heat was involved at all, Breanne said.

Heather shrugged and went on with her nibbling, going for some toast slathered with jam and honey. Breanne sat on the bed beside her and leaned into her side as they looked about the palatial bedroom of Rajeen, their new master.

I could get used to living like this, Breanne said.

I hope so, Heather said between chews. Because there is no going back.

I suppose not, Breanne said with a smile and used her tail to play with Heathers.

Heather enjoyed the game, and the company as Breanne sat beside her. Of all the girls, she was the one Heather felt most able to talk to, as Breanne had a wise, almost motherly quality. She was always quick to show affection and care when Heather needed it and was fond of keeping Quinny in line.

Oh, I forgot, Heather said when she thought of Quinny in Blackbasts arms. Did Quinny go?

Not yet, Breanne said. Nobody is doing anything until after the interrogation.

Ugh, I will be so glad when thats over, Heather groaned and reached for some grapes. I am tired of this hanging over my head.

That all ends today, Breanne said and patted her hand. You will prove to them once, and for all that the woman they once sought is gone.

I hope so, Heather sighed as she finally started to worry. So much was riding on her clever trick, and the untested people tapped to pull it off. What if Alexandria attempted to betray them? What if she sold Heather out in exchange for a share of the reward? With that kind of money, she could buy her way out of her trouble and come out well ahead in the end. Zillix was another wild card because she had no idea how his power worked. They spent an hour with him practicing making an illusionary copy of her character sheet. It needed to be perfect, with nothing to give away that it wasn't real. A single line is out of place or a missing symbol, and everything would fall apart. He also had to hide her power bars so the essence stat wasn't seen. She was putting a lot of faith in the tiny dragon as his part was the most important. He had to prove to some of the most powerful people in the region that Heather was not a necromancer.

Where is Frank? Heather asked as she nibbled on a square of cheese.

He went to meet Gwen and ensure everything was ready, Breanne said. They are going to hold the meeting in special chambers where Zillix and Alexandria can be hidden in a neighboring room. They will have a magical mirror focused on you so they know when and where to use their powers.

Good, Heather said as she moved on to the mushroom. We only have one chance at this.

It will work, Breanne insisted. Your brilliant mind has saved us all a dozen times, and this plan is no exception.

Heather smiled and took a bite of the sauteed mushrooms, humming as the well-seasoned flavors passed her lips.

You like mushrooms? Breanne asked.

I love them, Heather replied. They are like plants that wanted to be meat.

Ha, I have never heard anyone describe them like that, Breanne laughed.

Hmm, Heather replied as she took another fork full. She savored the mushrooms and then moved on to the little cake squares decorated with little fruit patterns. She wondered if her cook Monica could make things like this and if she should upgrade her. She ate and talked with Breanne for nearly an hour when the pair of jade doors at the far end of the room opened.

Rajeen walked in, her blue eyes fixating on Heather before she strolled across the marble floor. She wore a lovely black silk skirt at her waist and a matching wrap at the top, adorned with golden chains and charms. Over her head was a band of gold with little blue gems and a single catseye agate.

It is good to see you eating, Rajeen said. You must keep up your strength for today.

You look overly dressed, Heather remarked before plunking a small bit of cake in her mouth. I think it makes you look beautiful.

Oh, my sweet pet, Rajeen purred and used her fingers to stroke Heathers chin. I am dressed for your meeting. I wish to put on a more appropriate appearance.

Interrogation is more like it, Breanne quipped. But at least it will be over for good.

I am glad to see you are both so confident, Rajeen said. This matter has been most distressing for our family. Roric will not say so, but he worries for you and for the home they built.

Heather smiled as Rajeen so casually called them family. It was a true statement, to be sure, as by being part of the harem, they were all one. Frank and Roric were her masters now, as were Rajeen and Blackbast. It was an odd arrangement but one that didn't really change anything in the long run.

So, I should probably get dressed, Heather said as she set her fork down. I want this over with so I can focus on more important things, like my family.

I am sure the girls will be happy to hear that, Rajeen purred and kneeled before her. But I want to reiterate how grateful I am that you are mine. I promise you will never question my love for you, and I will wipe all your tears away.

Thank you, Heather replied and got up to hug her. I love you. She heard Rajeen sniffle, and when she leaned back, there were tears in the tiger woman's eyes. Her words had touched a nerve, and she realized that was the first time she had said it.

Shh, Rajeen said when Heather went to speak. Let me savor that moment a bit longer.

Oh, you poor thing, Lady Galeen said sweetly. Trying to hide a necromancer is almost as bad as being one. I am afraid you are going to tell us who this necromancer is and where they can be found, or you will pay the price for conspiring to hide an enemy of the server.

Time slowed as Heather's mind searched for a solution. She couldn't tell them who the necromancer was because Alexandria was unconscious, and anything she said would be revealed as a lie. She stammered to begin speaking as she saw visions of her friends being punished for attempting to aid her. At the last second, the doors flew open, and Idris nervously ran in. She was dressed in a black gown highlighted with skulls, chains, and bony spikes. A dead silence fell over the room as she walked directly to Heather and took her place beside her.

Who is this? the red-haired man demanded.

Look at her garb, Lady Galeen said. I believe we have finally found our necromancer.

All of you will be charged with colluding to hide a banned player, the red-skinned man roared as he pointed a finger at Gwen. You will lose your kingdom.

You try and take it from me, Gwen hissed back.

I am not a necromancer! Idris shouted, drawing all eyes to her trembling form. My name is Idris, and I am a priestess of death. She displayed her power by waving a hand and chanting a dark sequence of words. Before their very eyes, a ghoul rose from the floor, followed by several zombies. She waited as the group took in the sight before explaining that she was often mistaken as a necromancer because of her power. She then admitted that she and Heather had met on the road to the South as they fled persecution by other players. They formed a friendship based on their shared experiences, and Heather was only trying to protect her from exposure. To Heather's utter amazement, the stone glowed blue, but she could see there were cracks of red. She looked through Webster's eyes to see Zillix trembling as blood fell from his nose. The tiny dragon was masking the stone with an illusion as he struggled to stay conscious. The illusion wasn't perfect, but her interrogators were too angry to notice.

You will show us your character sheet, Lady Galeen demanded. Or we will drag you back in chains.

Idris nodded and willed her sheet open. Heather held her breath as they inspected the new sheet, and the woman's smile finally faded.

Shes a priestess of death, she spat.

Thats just as bad as a necromancer, another called out.

It may be, but its legal, Lady Galeen replied and shot Idris a hateful glare. Put your sheet away and step back, girl.

Idris nervously complied and hurried back to the waiting arms of Jaina. Heather turned enough to see the frightened expressions on her family as they waited to see the reaction of the local rulership. Gwen looked ready to kill them all, and Franks expression was of dark hatred. No doubt he would be the first to aid Gwen in seeing them torn to shreds.

Well? Gwen demanded. Do you have anything more to waste our time with?

No, the red man said as he turned to face Heather. He bowed ever so slightly and announced that they were satisfied. Lady Galeen looked ready to rage but floated away and joined the others. Heather was too afraid to move from her spot until the very last lord had left the room.

You may breathe now, Rajeen said as her hand came to Heather's shoulder. You did well.

Heather's eyes filled with tears as the shock finally set in. Frank was at her side instantly, sweeping her into a hug and whispering it was finally over. The others followed suit, hugging and encouraging as Heather fell apart. She struggled to wipe her eyes clear of tears as Gwen stepped forward with a smile.

My daughter, you did it, she said, taking Heather's hand. But whatever possessed you to publicly announce to all the world that you were a slave girl?

Heather looked into her mother's face and then to the side to see Frank, Roric, Rajeen, and Blackbast. She saw love and compassion in their eyes, and she smiled in happiness.

Because I am proud of what I am and who I belong to, Heather replied. I want everyone to know I am a slave girl, and I belong to the greatest masters in the world.

They were going to see it on her character sheet anyway, Jaina added. And the collar was a dead giveaway.

But she could have simply claimed to be Franks, Gwen insisted as she looked to the others. But I can see she wants to honor those she calls her master.

No greater slave girl has ever graced my harem, Rajeen said. She is a treasure among treasures.

She is the rarest of girls, Roric agreed. I am honored to be named as one of her masters.

So, is this finally over? Quinny asked. Can we live our lives now?

Yes, Heather said as her tears renewed. And its all thanks to. Oh my gosh, Zillix! Heather ran from the room as the others followed, unsure what had her panicked. She burst into the side chambers and rushed across the space to where the tiny dragon lay in a pool of his own blood.

Zillix! Idris cried as Heather leaned over him.

What happened to him? Gwen asked. I thought he was only supposed to go unconscious.

Alexandria was already out when they started asking about necromancers, Heather explained as she carefully lifted him up.

Then how did the stone glow blue when Idris lied? Jaina asked.

Zillix hid it in an illusion, Idris cried as Heather placed a pulsing heal on the creature. He was already at his limit when I ran into the room to claim I was the necromancer.

I saw him through Websters eyes, Heather added. He was fighting to stay awake and sacrificing himself to keep up the illusions.

The poor thing, Gisley said in sympathy. Is he going to be alright?

Heather didn't know, but she couldn't just give up. Her heal seemed to be doing something, but just in case, she lifted the tiny creature's head and gently kissed the tip of his snout. Her healing kiss began to flow as her power flooded his body. A few moment's later, she handed his sleeping form to Idris and prayed it had been enough and that all he needed now was rest.

They checked Alexandria, and Gwen had her move to a bedroom to sleep it off. Heather then returned to crying as Frank lifted her into his arms.

Lets get you home, Frank said. I am sure the harem girls can help soothe this stress away.

Heather nodded as he took her away and carried her back to the inn. She was undressed and placed among the girls, who immediately brought her wine, food, and gentle caresses. Rajeen and Frank stayed at her side while she struggled to wipe the worries away. Roric and his girls were nearby, with Gisley offering to rub Heather's shoulders. She used fairy magic to soothe away the stress and promised Heather a special good dream that night.

You did it, Breanne said as she arrived with Quinny, Umtha, and Blackbast. It is finally over.

Heather looked up and nodded. For now.

Forever, Rajeen insisted. You have proven to a host of the most powerful people in the world that you are not a necromancer. They will spread the word to the ears of those who care, and the search will be called off.

Its all thanks to Zillix and Alexandria, Heather said. I wish I could think of some way to reward them.

Gwen is going to offer Alexandria and Zillix a title and land in her kingdom, Breanne explained.

And we had a discussion, Roric said as he stood beside Frank. We masters have agreed to form an order to protect the harem. We wish to make access to the harem the greatest honor anyone can achieve.

And for his role in saving the day, we wish to offer Zillix that honor, Rajeen said. Provided he adds his slave girl to it.

Idris isnt a slave girl, Heather stated.

Oh, she looks like a slave to me, Rajeen laughed. While you were busy falling apart, I had a chance to speak with her and hear her call him her master. So if all the existing masters are in agreement, we will add the tiny dragon to our unique union.

He saved us, Frank said. And he risked dying to do it. He has my vote.

The dragon is a funny creature, Blackbast said. But he was willing to risk making enemies of the power players on the server for my precious one. I would not vote against him.

He saved our home and our slave girls, Roric added. He deserves a place here.

Then so be it, Rajeen said. When he awakens, he will be given a place among our number.

So we will have five masters, Jaina laughed. Our little club sure has grown of late.

It can finally be the happy place it was always meant to be, Rajeen said. Heather is free of her curse, and a new day has begun.

Yes, it has, Heather agreed and leaned into Frank. Yes, it has.

I love you, Frank whispered before kissing her head. My little slave girl.

Heather smiled as she accepted her title and closed her eyes to relax. The battle was over, and the lie was complete. Now word would spread, and with luck, the hunters would cease. She was finally free to live her life unburdened by the shackle placed around it so long ago by Moon. Though she was still a necromancer, nobody had any reason to suspect it.

With a sigh, she turned to Frank and smiled. Take these crazy thoughts out of my head, she begged.

How? Frank asked as he looked deep into her eyes.

Easy, she said and tapped his chest. Remind me that I am a slave girl.