Elec exited the healer’s quarters and made his way back into the cooling evening air. The quiet of the town seemed more pronounced now, as the bustle of the day faded into a peaceful hush. An antidote to the quiet, the inns’ crowds swelled, with each fresh face being freed from their duties. The ache in his forehead quieted down, but he was not quite ready for the noise. His left side’s sore stiffness brought to mind the last task on his evening list. Just a short walk separated the town center from the eastern edge of the town proper. As Elec headed toward the establishment, the sounds of voices and laughter spilled out from the open door of the Salty Gull as he passed. Between the practice in the field, the tempest of emotions, and the taxing of his mental abilities, Elec wandered through the town square in an exhausted haze as he directed his feet just past the Gull and to the other edge of town he had yet to visit.
The building was simple but well-maintained, with the scent of wood smoke and herbs wafting from the smoke vents along the roof. A modest, roofed porch greeted visitors, with a wavering lantern illuminating the stone walkway to the entrance. When Elec entered, the warmth of the interior embraced him. A cozy receiving space with wooden floors, simple yet elegant benches, and a large basin in the back that steamed with hot water. The spices in the air smelled mellow and calming. A young woman behind the counter looked up as he entered, her eyes wide with astonishment. Elec gave her a polite bow, and her expression shifted to a warm yet nervous smile.
“Evening, sir. Are you here for a bath? We’ve got a nice large tub, just for you at the moment. A quiet soak is in order, I presume?” She said, her tone professional despite her momentary fluster.
“Pleasant evening to you, too. A quiet soak sounds good. Do you perhaps have any wine in this establishment?”
The young woman behind the counter nodded with a polite smile.
“Of course, sir. We’ve got a small selection of wine available. It’s not the finest in the bay, but it’s good enough for a relaxing evening. We have a light white wine and a rich red one. Both are decent, if you’re interested.”
She moved aside and pointed to a small shelf by the wall, where wooden crates held a few bottles, as mentioned. Elec motioned to a bottle of white wine.
“If you’d like, I can bring you a glass while you wait. It’ll be a few moments before the tub is fully ready, but feel free to take a seat and relax. It’ll be just the thing to unwind after a long day.”
The warm, calming atmosphere of the bathhouse was a welcome contrast to the day’s events. The steady steam rising from the bath in the back promised a soothing experience, and the option of wine added a touch of luxury to Elec’s respite.
“I’ll wait for the bath to be ready, but if you’d be kind enough to bring me a glass a few minutes after I get settled.”
“Very well, sir. I’ll get everything ready for you. Just make yourself comfortable while you wait, and I’ll bring the wine over shortly.”
With a final courteous smile, she stepped out of sight behind a wooden partition, leaving Elec to settle into the cozy, warm atmosphere of the bathhouse. He slid out of his jacket and looked at it sadly. For ten years it had survived winter herdings, spring camping excursions, and even a climbing expedition. While the damage to it was inevitable, the bloodstains he could’ve removed himself with a bit of magic. Elec hung the jacket on a peg and took a seat on one of the wooden benches, resting his hands on his thighs as he let himself relax into the moment.
The steam from the large basin rose into the air, creeping around the partitioned corners, and the room was quiet, save for the soft sound of water sloshing. The simple, rustic decor of the bathhouse had a charm to it, and the soft glow of lantern light added to the sense of peace.
As the minutes passed, Elec’s thoughts drifted to the mysteries ahead, the Waveshear, the Silver Drake, the Silent Ones, the sea serpents, the strange symbols, and the travelers he’d just met. But for now, he allowed himself to enjoy the rare moment of calm before things became more complicated. True to her word, after a few minutes, the young woman returned with a small glass of wine in hand. She offered it to Elec with a soft smile.
“Here you go, sir. Enjoy your soak, and if you need anything else, just let me know.”
“Thank you for that. My name is Elec, by the way. Might I have your name?”
She paused for a moment, considering him with a warm, friendly gaze.
“Of course,” she replied with a soft laugh. “I’m Alina. It’s a pleasure to serve you, Elec.”
She carried herself with a quiet confidence, her movements efficient yet graceful, and there was a hint of weariness in her eyes from the long hours spent running the bathhouse. Her auburn hair was tied back in a simple, practical knot of cloth. She wore a simple but well-kept outfit, and it’s clear she’s accustomed to the physical work of running this establishment. Her approachable smile contrasted with a cautious demeanor, revealing someone who understood the nuances of social engagement: to recognize when to be friendly and when to keep your distance.
Elec took a long draw from his glass, the wine crisp and sweet. Her eyes flickered to Elec with a quiet intensity in her gaze. It’s clear she’s paying attention to more than just her duties, he thought, his smile broadening. She blinked, a little flustered.
“Umm…if you need anything else while you wait, just let me know,” She said.
She lingered for a moment longer before giving a small nod and stepping back toward the entryway. Elec could not help but look at the curves of her body. She was much softer than the girls back in Hinterson’s Vale. The swell of her hips and her decently ample breasts fit snugly within her dress. Tasteful, yet definitely meant to draw attention. Elec rose, removed his shirt, and gave a stiff stretch. Alina, still standing in the doorway, cleared her throat to get his attention.
“Your bandages. Can they come off?” She asked, her voice polite as can be. “I mean…is it alright to remove them before your bath?”
“Tialha, the Sea Sprinter’s healer, said they should be good enough to come off. Though I will need help with the back.”
Despite her earlier reserve, Alina helped Elec out of the bandages and disposed of them. Elec looked down to assess the damage. Where both creatures had sunk their teeth, Tialha trimmed away a lot of his fur, and a noticeable bald spot highlighted where each tooth bit. He touched each one gingerly, finding none of the pain or additional bleeding, though a lot of the residue from the medicine remained matted to his flesh and fur. Only the soreness of the muscle underneath persisted.
“How does it look back there?” Elec asked, looking over his shoulder.
He felt her gentle hands on him as she inspected the wounds across his shoulder, neck, and back. Fur being parted here. A gentle touch and prod there. The air in his lungs felt warmer with every breath as she stroked the tender, yet pain-free spots. Her hands traced the musculature of his neck, back, and the pattern of his striped fur, her inspection momentarily extending beyond his scars.
“Wow! What creature did you anger out there in the bay?” She asked, stepping back.
“Sea serpents. Two of them.” Elec said, turning. “I would’ve been their lunch were the rest of the crew not ready with their harpoons and crossbows.”
“Well, the wounds back here are looking good, but I’d really appreciate it if you could clean off first. I’ll draw you a scrub bucket if you strip down over there.”
Elec walked back to the bench and slipped out of his boots and pants before wrapping a towel around his waist. Alina approached and offered her hand, her eyes tracing the lower hem of the towel as the bottom of it rested a little high on his thighs. Elec took her hand, and she led him to a partitioned corner where a short stool, a bucket, and a bar of mellow-smelling soap awaited.
“Is there any way you can help me with my back?” Elec asked with a wry smile.
Alina gave him a tight, sideways smile and handed him a long-handled brush. Obviously, she had heard that one plenty of times before, he thought as he took it and thanked her. Alina refilled his wine glass and placed it on the bench behind him as he removed his towel and went to work scrubbing the residue from his flesh and fur. When he had finished, he returned to the bench and picked up the glass. Taking a large sip, he approached the large tub.
The wine in his hand sloshed as he moved toward the basin. The tub reminded him of a gigantic barrel sliced in half. It was wide enough to fit ten people, with a bench built into the inner perimeter. He crossed the distance and was surprised to see that instead of returning to the front desk, Alina tended to several canisters and jars in a cupboard. As he passed, she gave him a long but respectful glance. Elec smiled, again feeling more like himself. She didn’t intrude, however, returning to her sorting with quiet efficiency, though blushing.
The warmth of the water hit all the way to Elec’s bones as he eased into the enormous wooden tub, the soothing heat immediately loosening the tension in his muscles. The ache in his side soon dissolved. The scent of herbs filled the air, and steam further aided the room’s calming atmosphere. He took another slow sip of the wine. The smooth, light flavor complemented the quiet moment of solitude. The soft flicker of lanterns reflected off the water, creating an almost dreamlike environment. As Elec settled in, he let his mind empty out, thinking and focusing on nothing. He allowed the warmth of the bath and the quiet of the moment to clear his mind, focusing only on the soothing sensation of the water as it enveloped him.
He glimpsed Alina as she passed through mostly closed eyes, the young lady glancing over to make sure everything was in order. After finishing his glass of wine, Elec slouched lower in the hot, soothing water, letting the heat relax the muscles of his neck and shoulders.
When Elec felt ready, he sat up straighter and called over to Alina. She peeked around the corner from the foyer, noticed his empty glass, and gave a nod. She made her way back toward him with the same graceful, efficient movements. Feeling loose from the wine and the water, a slight smile touched his lips as a thought occurred to him.
“Is everything to your liking, sir?” she asked, her tone polite but with a touch of curiosity. “Would you like another glass of wine, or anything else?”
She stood a few paces away, leaning on the edge of the basin, waiting for his response, but there was a subtle warmth in her demeanor.
“I would like another glass of wine, good lady, though I dare say I would be remiss not to offer you one as well. I may have nearly met my end at sea, but you’ve a look that says you too could use a moment’s respite.”
Alina looked at Elec for a moment, her expression softening as she took in his words. She glanced from his eyes to the scars on his left side. She gave him a small, appreciative smile, her eyes glinting with a mixture of gratitude and suspicion.
“I appreciate the offer, Elec,” She replied with quiet sincerity. “But no, I’m afraid I’ll have to decline. I’m used to the long shifts around here, and the wine isn’t really my thing. But…”
She hesitated for a moment, Elec smiling at her feminine fluster.
“I could use a moment to sit down…It’s not often I get someone as…considerate as you in here, especially after a long day.”
Elec tilted his head and nodded in response. She stepped over to a nearby stool and took a seat, leaning back and letting out a quiet sigh. She stretched her shoulders, taking a brief respite from her duties.
“You’ve had your hands full, I can see. I’ve heard stories regarding sea serpents, but I don’t think I’ve met anyone who’s faced them and lived to tell the tale. You’re braver than most.”
She shifted slightly, folding her arms and letting the quiet of the bathhouse wash over her.
“It’s a strange town we live in…not too much going on beneath the surface, if you ask me. You’ve got some interesting stories, I can tell. You’re far from home, aren’t you? Tell me, what brings you out here, aside from nearly being eaten by sea serpents?”
Elec moved from the opposite side of the tub, closer to her, and leaned his chest against the rim, his arms crossed over the lip.
“Not much more. I’ve only just left my home. A typhoon had washed the wreckage of a ship onto the shores of our little island. My father suggested that I should go to the mainland and make a report to their chapter house. I guess he felt it was time for me to see Valais for a bit. Maybe find some excitement or mystery…or mischief.”
Alina listened intently, her eyes warm with understanding. When he mentioned his father and the mayor, she gave a soft chuckle, nodding with a knowing smile.
“Ah, I see. Sent off to do your duty, but maybe with a bit of free rein mixed in. A bit of adventure, eh? An island can make the world feel compact, but then arriving on the mainland can suddenly immerse you in something much larger. That’s how it often goes. The things that start as a simple task can grow into something…well, far more interesting.”
She leaned back in her chair and crossed her arms.
“I get the sense you’re not someone who’s just content to follow orders or stay out of trouble. I’m sure there’s more to it than just a report to the guild. You’re not the type to settle for just doing what’s expected.”
Alina paused for a moment, her gaze thoughtful as she watched Elec. I think I’ve stumbled on a part of myself that is outright dangerous, Elec thought as she shifted in her seat while she went on. He thought back to everyone he had talked with up to this point. Much like Dalia, Eryth, and the others, the more she spoke, the more comfortable she became with him. Her body relaxed, and her posture seemed unguarded now.
“It’s rare to meet someone with that spark. Someone who feels the pull of something beyond the mundane. And that’s probably why you’re here, in a place like this. Right at the heart of it all, when things are about to get very interesting. I can see why the sea serpents wouldn’t be enough to scare you off.”
“Well, if it were three and not two, it might have been a different matter. So besides a tiger walking into your bathhouse, has there been anything interesting you have come across?”
Elec rose a little higher out of the water as he spoke. Alina chuckled at his remark, her eyes twinkling with amusement.
“A tiger walking into a bathhouse is certainly a first for me,” she said with a playful grin. “But my experiences here have shown me so many strange things that I’ve learned not to be overly surprised by anything anymore.”
She shifted in her chair, her expression thoughtful as she stroked her ponytail.
“Well, if you’re talking about the weird happenings in the bay, then yeah, there’ve been whispers. Not just about sea serpents, but things in the water…lights that make little sense, strange sounds on the wind, and people disappearing without a trace. I’m not one to put stock in every rumor, but when enough folks talk, you start wondering if there’s something to it.”
She paused, her fingers tracing the edge of her chair.
“You’re not the only one interested in shipwrecks. Folks like the mercenaries, and others, they’re always sniffing around, trying to get a hold of something that might be worth something. Maybe something more dangerous than trinkets to exchange for gold.”
Alina looked up, her tone dropping.
“And then there are the things that don’t always make it into the stories. The shadows in the corners of the town, people who disappear and then come back…changed. I don’t know if it’s connected to the sea, but I’ve heard enough to know there’s something…off. This town’s been here a long time, and it feels like there’s a deep, hidden current running through it all.”
She tilted her head slightly, a hint of curiosity in her expression.
“But you, Elec…you’ve already gotten yourself tangled up in something, haven’t you? The storm, the shipwreck, the serpents, the darkness… It’s like you’re drawn into all of this for a reason. What do you think it is?”
“I don’t know, but I am excited to find out…What I do know is that the way you hold your shoulders suggests there’s a bit of an ache there. If you come this way, I may be able to help with it.”
Alina raised an eyebrow at Elec’s suggestion, a brief flash of surprise crossing her face, but there’s no mistaking the curiosity in her gaze. She straightened in her seat, then looked down at her shoulders, as if she noticed they were attached to her for the first time. A soft sigh escaped her lips, and she rolled them, acknowledging the ache that’s been building up. That was a smooth guess, Elec thought. Let’s see how far this will go.
“You’ve got a keen eye, I’ll give you that,” she said, her voice light but with a touch of appreciation.
She hesitated for a moment, then gave a small, almost imperceptible nod.
“I suppose I’ve been on my feet too long today, and this place doesn’t exactly make for a restful shift.”
Her gaze flickered back to Elec, and she seemed to weigh the offer for a moment, her expression thoughtful but open.
“I don’t usually let folks do much more than chat with me, but you seem different. If you think you can help, I’ll take you up on it, nothing too extravagant, of course.”
Alina stood and walked up to him. Slowly she turned, offering her back to him while stretching her arms above, resting her hands atop her head. She glanced back at him over her shoulder and gave Elec a small, almost teasing smile.
“I’d be a fool not to take a moment to relax, especially with the way you’re offering. Let’s see if you’re as good at this as you are at surviving sea serpents. And no…uh…wet…mischief, alright.”
Elec’s smile broadened as she stepped toward him, waiting to see how he planned to proceed. Her smile carried a mix of gratitude and lighthearted skepticism. Elec dried his hands with a small hand towel before gently placing them on her shoulders. Alina gave a soft exhale as the initial pressure of his touch eased some of the tension. He was especially careful his claws didn’t catch on her clothes while he massaged them. He pressed his thumbs down along her neck…
“Ow…Hey, careful now!” She said.
Elec apologized profusely, but she did not withdraw from his touch. Taking a couple of breaths, he began again, using much less pressure than before. The difference was almost immediate. The new tension in her shoulders first eased, then melted. Though inexperienced, the capability of his own dexterous hands surprised him, and she leaned her head back in response. He had read about the technique in some of his father’s books, particularly the ones he wasn’t supposed to read from when he was younger. Regardless, it was soon easy to find the tense spots in her neck and shoulders and stroke them gently with his thumbs and palms. Her soft moans were an easy sign he was on the right track.
“Well, I will say that the ‘wet mischief’ is on my mind, but I am more than happy to enjoy your company at this level of…intimacy at least,” Elec said.
Alina breathed deeply, several quiet gasps escaping her lips as she allowed herself to relax under the soothing pressure of his massage, the quiet rhythm of it calming her. After a few moments of enjoying the relief, she leaned into the touch, her shoulders softening further. Elec’s own breath hitched, burning fiery hot in his chest. He shifted his position, his body protesting the angle and the wooden barrier between her body and his.
“I’ll admit,” she said, her voice huskier now, “you’ve got a way with your hands, Elec. Better than most I’ve met, that’s for sure.”
Elec moved his hands down to the back of her shoulder blades, continuing the massage.
“Although I may be young and naive, many unsavory things are happening in this region that I hope to investigate thoroughly. I have met quite a few folk who wish to put an end to it as well. I just hope my efforts will be enough to see it through.”
Alina’s breath caught slightly as Elec moved his hands down to the back of her shoulder blades; the deeper pressure offered a further release of tension. She closed her eyes for a moment, allowing herself to enjoy the relief while also listening intently to Elec’s words. He could feel his heart racing, his hands slowly working their way to the edges of her shoulder blades. He felt the quickening pace of her breathing, the warm flush of her flesh under her clothes, the pressure of her leaning into his hands as they made their way to the middle of her back.
“You’re not so naive, Elec,” she murmured, her voice warm with a hint of appreciation. “Well, maybe a little, but it takes more courage to face something you don’t understand than to ignore it. And you’re right. There’s plenty of unsavory things happening around here and too many rumors. Too many stories about things lurking beneath the surface. But it’s good that you’re not just running from it, trying to stay out of the way. You’ve got the heart to see it through.”
“I have faith that what you say is true, else I would’ve gladly jumped back across the sea to my home. There are enough folks here doing the right thing to at least make some progress. Well, speaking of progressing, this is as far down I can safely massage your back from this position. Else, you’d have to be sitting in the water here next to me to address any more aches that you may have.”
Elec moved his hands upwards along her body, one resting on her shoulder while the other just under her arm. Alina let out a soft, appreciative laugh at Elec’s words, her back tilting even further into his touch. She remained in his hold for a long moment, just long enough to feel his hands begin to draw her back. She sighed, gently easing out of his grasp.
“I greatly appreciate the offer, Elec,” she said, her smile broad and genuine. “You’ve done more than enough already. There are several ships in the harbor and certainly a few more customers will be dropping by at any minute. I wouldn’t want them to get the wrong impression of what kind of establishment I run. Maybe we can revisit it next time.”
Alina stretched her shoulders once more, the strain seemingly gone. She stood only a step away from the basin, regarding him.
“I never thought I could feel so relaxed around anyone, let alone someone like you, Elec. Beyond the obvious, there is something different about you. Maybe you can help make a difference here in the bay. While there is the growing darkness most sailors are talking about, it’s the smaller things that still go unmentioned. There’s a handful of folks around here who’ve gone missing. Nothing big, just small disappearances here and there. People wander off, disappear for a while, and then return… changed. Not always physically, but mentally. It’s like they’ve seen something or felt something out there. Something… unnatural. And when they come back, they’re not quite the same.”
She paused, her gaze flickering toward the entryway of the bathhouse, as if ensuring they’re not being overheard.
“There’s an old fisherman, Egehln, who used to come in every other week. Mainly to flirt with me, I think.” Alina continued.
“I can’t imagine why,” Elec quipped, the young lady laughing.
“He disappeared once for about a week, then suddenly appeared on a spot at the corner of the docks… though not himself. And he’s not been back to the Bathhouse since.” She continued, her tone serious once more, “When he returned to town, he couldn’t remember where he’d been, but he swore he heard whispers in the wind. And sometimes, he’d speak about things: visions, dreams, or nightmares that didn’t make sense. He said he could feel something…watching him. He’s not the same now. Although he’s silent on the matter, his eyes convey a lot. I don’t know how to describe it… But it’s like he’s seen something that’s torn a hole in him.”
Her voice dropped even lower, and there’s a flicker of uncertainty in her gaze.
“I don’t know what it is, but I’ve heard similar stories. Some say it’s the sea, some say it’s the bay itself. Whatever it is, it’s not natural. People like Egehln… they’re walking around, but they’re not the same.”
She let out a quiet breath, holding her elbows in both her hands.
“I just hope it doesn’t come for me. But who knows? Maybe I’m just being paranoid. It’s hard to ignore the feeling that something’s not right, though.”
“There are too many of the same folk telling the same story for you to brush this off as simply being nervous. A real danger is running loose in the bay, and I hope that I can find enough of the right people to figure it out.” Elec said, his heart rate slowing to its normal rhythm.
Her voice grew softer, but there was a note of respect in it now, as though Elec’s words had struck a chord with her. She stepped forward, resting her hands on his crossed arms.
“Well, if you are as honest and forthright as you are with me, mischief notwithstanding, you’ll find allies along the way, and maybe you’ll even find answers that will make this place safe, or at least safer. But whatever happens, remember it’s not always about winning. It’s about knowing you did what you could when the time came. I think you’ll make a difference. You’ve got the right kind of heart for it.”
Elec nodded, mulling her words over in his mind. Alina refilled his glass with most of the remaining wine in the bottle she had carried with her. With a wink, she finished the rest herself.
“I’ll leave you to your soak for now,” she said with a warm smile, squeezing his arm. “You’ve a lot ahead of you. If you need anything else, just call. I’ll be around.”
With that, she went around the corner to clean up the area where he had originally washed up, leaving Elec to his thoughts, the warmth of the bath, and the quiet atmosphere surrounding him. He breathed deeply, forcing all of his whole body to calm down after the intense level of arousal he had reached. The night seemed to stretch on before him, filled with possibilities and mysteries, both outside and within. Elec took his time in the warm water, letting it soak away the last remnants of the day’s fatigue. The tranquil environment helped him find clarity; his thoughts had been unfocused for a significant period before he could not distract himself from his mission any further. His encounter with Alina, the travelers, and the others in town had reminded him just how much was at stake, especially if no one knew what exactly was happening. What he knew was that he felt absolutely great. His forehead, shoulder, and side no longer ached, due largely to the heat and wine. As Elec stirred, he noticed the young lady peeking around the partition from the corner of his eye.
Elec rose from the basin and dried himself off, not with a towel, but with a bit of magic. The water drained away as if it were running off glass. To show off further, he gave his body a swift shake to remove the last bit of moisture from his fur. Alina giggled, her head darting back around the dividing wall. He took his time slipping into his clothes. Elec savored the last few sips of his wine as he finished the glass and then put it aside. He stepped out of the bathing area, finding the air cooler near the foyer of the bathhouse even more refreshing. Alina joined him at the front counter.
“Well, I see you’re ready to face the world again,” She said with a knowing grin. “I hope the bath did its job. If you’re heading out, I can get you something to go.”
Elec took several silver coins from his pouch, rolled them into her hand, and kissed it.
“I am feeling infinitely better, and I bet you do as well. I’ll probably be away for a while, but I will definitely stop in to see you first when I return. Who knows, maybe your hands can return the favor next time.”
Alina’s eyes widened in surprise as Elec took her hand, but the tenderness of his action and the earnestness of his tone reassured her. Her cheeks flushed, a smile curling at the edges of her lips. The warmth of his words caught her off guard, and she held his gaze for a moment, the last of her earlier reserve melting away. She laughed softly, appreciating the playful nature of his comment.
“Well, now, that’s a bold offer,” She said, her voice light but with a touch of warmth. “Out of the numerous patrons trying to make a move on me, I think yours was among the smoothest. I’ll certainly be looking forward to that day, Elec. But for now…”
She gave a small, teasing smile as she retrieved the coins from him, her fingers brushing against his once more as she took the payment.
“Safe travels, and don’t get yourself into too much trouble.”
