“And it is just the beginning. I learned much during our bonding. You are no ordinary Keeper, of that I am certain. What exactly that entails, I do not know, but there is no denying it. The bond is deeper, the power more far-reaching. I have never known anything like it except in legends. We will do well together, you and I. As my Keeper, you will raise me to new heights.”

I eased back in the tub, letting myself float a little in the warm water and soaking in the heady haze that came with enjoying the body of a beautiful woman. Kyrine, sensing my enjoyment, let out a groan of content and satisfaction as she snuggled into me even more, her hand still playing up and down my chest and belly.

“I forgive you,” I said.

She lifted her head to look into my face. “Forgive me? For what?”

“What do you think? For trying to kill me, of course!”

She laughed a deep, musical laugh. “It has been so long since I have been filled properly by a real male. Most are so inadequate these days, in strength, power, and sheer physical size.” She slipped her hand lower. “You had your revenge though, because you nearly killed me yourself with this!”

“Really?” I asked, concerned. “I went too hard?”

She smiled at me. “Not at all. With me, that would be nearly impossible. I would even suggest another moment of lovemaking, right now, but I must show you how to perform your other roles as Keeper before we leave.”

“Leave?” I asked. “Where are we going?”

“Out of this space inside the dungeon core. Back to the mansion.”

The entire night was a bit of a blur—so much had happened in a fairly short time—but if I was going to be staying here for a while, I had things to get in order first. I had to let my boss know I couldn’t work for him anymore, and tell my aunt and uncle that I’d found a new job which required me to move to some new digs.

I wasn’t sure what I’d tell them, or even how much I was allowed to tell them. Hell, I hadn’t even been given a job description or an idea of what my role required. Other than being Kyrine’s Keeper, which so far seemed to involve mainly killing monsters and having great sex. By my estimation, I’d done a damn good job of that so far.

“You seem confused, thoughtful,” Kyrine said. “What troubles you?”