Chapter 4. Legendary Quest. Part 3.

– Ah! A weary traveler seeking respite, I presume? – the ancient creature croaked – skin wrinkled like bark, eyes glimmering with age-old wisdom: – Welcome to my humble banya! Come, let me show you true relaxation…

Lilith followed docilely, as Bannik led her deeper into steam-shrouded chambers – first stripping away clothe and garments before stepping gingerly onto hot stone floor, radiating intense heat beneath bare feet.

– Breathe deeply now, – the guide intoned soothingly amidst swirling mist: – And let cares melt away.

For long moments she remained thus immersed – mind clearing until only primal sensations existed: searing air stinging lungs; sweat beading upon skin, then streaming freely down curves; aching muscles slowly unknotting their tense knots.

At length Lilith emerged renewed from purifying mist – body cleansed without, spirit refreshed within. She padded naked across cool stones, to plunge into frigid pool, awaiting beyond threshold, gasping sharply at