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Virtually Real Part 4: Difficult Choices (Redacted Version)

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"House, give me the morning report."

"It is 10:23. The weather is overcast, but warming and it will be clear and sunny by 2:30. Are there any adjustments you want to make?"

"Yes, very gradually lower Sticks fear of wind. No other changes."

"Do you want Birch to stay or go?"

"That decision is his to make, allow his A.I. to make the decision. Now that I'm done, wake the cubs at 10:30."

I walked out of the master bathroom and flopped down on one of the couches to wait. The alarm started with an irritating repetitive buzzing. There didn't seem to be any reaction.

"House, earplugs please."

The requested earplugs materialized on the table in front of me. I quickly grabbed and inserted them as the buzzing turned into a loud screeching. Conner, Bit, and Sticks came stumbling down the stairs. I passed out species appropriate noise canceling headgear and sent them off to the bathroom as the sound changed to shrieking. The alarm cut off as Shot, Key, and Birch made it to the stairs. I removed my earplugs and smiled as they slowly made their way down from the sleeping areas.

"Isn't it a beautiful day? You really wouldn't want to oversleep and miss it."

"Is that going to happen every day?" Key asked, rubbing his ears.

"Of course not, as long as you wake up before I do or shortly afterward the alarm won't go off. However, if I have time to finish my morning ablutions, make it out here to the couch, and put in my ear plugs the alarm will go off. One minute of buzzing, fifty seconds of screeching, and them constant mind numbing shrieking until everyone makes it to the stairs."

"What do we do if we get up earlier than you?"

"If you get up early you can use your free time however you want. Now go take care of your morning needs and I'll continue the tour from last night."

They all grumbled as they headed for the bathroom. Sticks was the first back out.

"Alpha, I want to apologies for the way I acted last night."

"You're afraid of storms. Considering what you've been through it's completely understandable."

“I- I just want to say that, even with the storm, I felt safer and slept better than ever before."

"I only hope you feel like that every night from now on."

Once everyone was finished I led them into the game room.

"I suspect most of you will be spending your free time in here."

The layout had changed from having a single TV to having three with couches in front of each one. I walked over to one and turned it on.

"There are multiple games that House can access. This first menu is for choosing a game system. The images on the screen are of the different units. This is the oldest option. Anyone want to try playing?"

Bit stepped forward followed by Conner. I handed each of them a controller and clicked on the game icon.

"This is the simplest video game. The control knobs move your, we'll call it a shield, up and down. The object is to bounce the ball of light back at your opponent. When one of you misses your opponent gets a point."

They bounced the ball back and forth a couple of times but quickly gave up.

"That's not very fun." Bit complained.

"Yeah, it would be better to go outside and throw a real ball back and forth." Conner added.

I reset and chose another system.

"This system, while still old had larger and more sophisticated collection of games. Bit, since you volunteered first you can take this one. The object is to move around the maze eating all the energy pellets without getting caught by the ghosts. The large blinking pellets make you extra powerful so you can eat the ghosts for a short time."

It didn't take long before he lost all three lives but he was smiling. He passed the controller to Conner.

"This one is kinda fun."

Bit laughed as Conner lost his last life.

"It's actually harder than it looks trying to keep ahead of the ghosts."

"Anyone else want to give it a try?"

"I'll try it." Sticks volunteered. He sat down and took the controller. He'd lost one life before beating the level.

"Hah, I beat it! Wait, what?"

"You beat the first level. Welcome to level two."

He quickly lost his remaining lives.

"So it just gets harder each time you beat a level?" Birch asked.

"For that game yes. Now there are a lot of systems to choose from, but I'm going to jump to one of the latest."

I passed out headsets and a basic gun type controller to everyone.

"Alright, this is called a first person shooter. Place you fingers on the buttons along one side and your thumb on the direction pad on the other. I'll set it on easy so you'll automatically re-load. Once the game starts you should test the buttons to know what they do. With your other hand you hold the grip and you operate the trigger. Instead if using the TV screen, your surroundings will appear in your headset allowing you to look around just by moving your head. Now find a place to sit down and I'll make sure you are set." I walked around making sure they were all set and ready to play.

"I should warn you that since the game is from a human only world all of the characters will look human except for the creatures that are hunting you. The object of the game is to be the one with the most lives left after one of us is killed for the tenth time. Is everybody ready?"

After a chorus of "yes" I started the game only to spawn in the middle of the alien hive. I did my best but within seconds I was dead. "Ah hell."

I heard several snickers but didn't have time to identify where they originated as I re-spawned in a better location only to be taken out again. "That was orange armor. Conner, if I get a chance- ah crap, Sticks! Do I have 'kill me' written on my armor?"

I spawned again and immediately pushed down and started strafing in a circle.

"What! No fair."

"Sorry Key but I wasn't- Not again."

"You didn't think I'd let you get away with that did you?" Shot yelled.

"Thanks for avenging me bro."

As I re-spawned, again, I found myself in my favorite sniping position. I quickly switched to the sniper rifle and started my usual reign of terror.

"What? There was no one around me." Conner complained.

That's one paid back.

"Damn it." Shot yelled.

And Shot gets shot. Now for Sticks. I immediately noticed that he had teamed up with Birch. I still took him out.

"That's not possible."

"I told you I'd get you back."

As I surveyed the playing field I noticed that everyone was pairing up, not just Sticks and Birch. I switched from the cubs to targeting the creatures stalking them.

"Daddy, is there any way to win without killing each other?"

"Yeah, someone has to kill 100 creatures to end the scenario. Then the winner is decided by the number of kills and lives left. However, the more creatures killed the faster the others attack making it really difficult to reach 100 before someone dies ten times."

I continued sniping as the group came together. Sticks led them to a defensible position. I switched from the sniper rifle to standard rifle and made my way down the cliff trail. Once I reached ground level I held down the run button and my character sprinted toward the cubs. I made it about half way when one of the creatures popped out of a ditch and killed me. Fortunately I was close enough to re-spawn with the group.

"How did you hit us from way up there?"

"Guns have a much longer range than bows and arrows. Plus I'd switched to a gun that was made to hit targets from a distance."

The game only lasted a few more minutes before we were swarmed. Sticks was the first one to lose ten times.

"Congratulations Bit, you were the one with the most lives left at the end."

"Uh, thanks, I guess."

"There are also card and board games in case you want to play something real. Now if everyone will follow me, I'll show you the library and theatre. After that we'll go down and have breakfast."

***

I sat back in my chair as the cubs continued to eat. I'd decided to have breakfast on the barbecue deck between the kitchen and the pool. The morning air was crisp and fresh after the night's storm.

"So, now that we've finished the tour, I have to choose if I'm going to stay or leave?" Birch asked.

"Not just yet, there is another area to show everyone."

"Um, I've already seen it so I think I'll just stay here." Conner said.

"Yeah, I'll stay with him." Bit agreed.

"Is everyone finished eating?"

Everyone except Bit and Conner nodded.

"Good. Now, we're all going to check out the last area."

Conner and Bit got up with everyone else, but it was obvious they really didn't want to go back to the tree fort. When we reached the hidden room even I was surprised to find two tunnels instead of one.

"It appears House has added a new area."

I pulled out a copper.

"Since you two didn't want to be here you decide which doorway is heads and which one is tails. Then Birch will flip the coin and we'll explore the door that matches the coin first."

After a whispered conversation they each chose a door.

"My door is tails and Bit's is heads." Connor said.

I passed Birch the copper and he flipped it into the air. I caught it and slapped it down onto the back of my hand. "And the winner is, tails. Looks like we will be exploring Conner's door first."

"I hope t-there's no m-monsters." Bit stuttered.

As we got to the end of the tunnel Conner whimpered and Bit started shaking at the familiar tree house stairs.

"Hmm, it seems there have been some changes."

As we started up I noticed Instead of wide open space from the ground up there were separate landings with three sliding poles between each one. There were tables and chairs, knothole windows, and doorways leading out to the external stairs. The landings and stairs continued up to the very top of the tree where the canopy supported a large observation deck. I walked to the edge and found the shield surrounded the deck to keep anyone from falling. The deciduous forest stretched on as far as I could see.

"Things are similar, but I think this is a different world."

"Yes, after the scare young Bit and Conner had, a more suitable world was chosen."

I'd have been disturbed by the speaker's appearance if I hadn't recognized House's voice.

"What are you?" Birch asked. He slowly circled the wooden creature.

He was dressed in mossy green robes. Long ears like a rabbit's hung down to his shoulders, large deer antlers rose from his head. His face was distinctly horse shaped. His feet were oversized wolf paws and his hands were human. A bushy green fox tail poked from the back of his robe.

"We are the Keeper of Worlds. We are here to keep you safe."

"There are more of you?" Shot asked.

"Of course, there is a Keeper on every world. For example House is the Keeper of its dimension, which is why it can maintain openings to other Keepers. However, the number of worlds is limited by the number of people living in House's realm."

"So there are no giant monsters anymore?" Connor asked.

"Not on this world or any of the other worlds House will maintain a link with from now on."

Both Bit and Conner visibly relaxed.

"Alright, everyone go do some exploring. I'll make my way down to the exit. When you're ready, meet me there and we'll leave the Greenwood to go explore the next world."

The cubs took off at high speed. I slowly walked to the stairs, but stopped and turned back to the Keeper. "Interesting look you chose."

"Each Keeper will look different for every world."

"So what is the next world?"

"I only know my world and now House's world. You must discover the other worlds on your own."

He disappeared as quickly as he had arrived. I just rolled my eyes and started the long climb down to the tree's roots.

I'd just reached the tree house's base when the cubs joined me. "That didn't take long."

"There'll be plenty of time to explore everything. Now we're ready to see what the next world holds." Conner said jumping up and down.

"If you say so. Still, I have to wonder if maybe you're still a little spooked about the possibility that something is hiding just outside the shield."

"I told you so." Bit said as he stuck his tongue out at Conner.

"Biiit, he didn't know for sure until you just told him."

"It's alright, but if the Keeper says it's safe, then it is completely safe. Now on to the new world."

At the end of the new tunnel was a small round cave. At the center was a large stone basin with a stone bench circling it. At the exact opposite side from the entrance an opening led to a pair of stone staircases.

"What's this place supposed to be?" Shot asked.

"How is Alpha supposed to know that? This is his first time here."

"If I had to guess I'd say this is supposed to be some sort of ceremonial chamber."

"The bowl has a hole in the bottom and there are channels that empty into these glass cups with the symbols from our lockers on them." Conner announced, as he examined the table under the basin.

"Conner's right, and there's a hole above the container." Bit said as he climbed into the basin.

"Bit, get down from there. You're going to break something, likely your neck."

"Yes, Daddy."

"Good. Now let's see what the world above us is like."

We stepped out of the concealed entrance into a stone circle. The inner circle was composed of twelve uprights with capstones linking them matching the dimensions of the cave below. An altar stone rested in the center. The next ring of stones filled the openings so perfectly that from inside the structure an optical illusion was created making it look like a solid wall.

"Alpha, you're going to want to see this."

I followed the sound of Stick's voice out of the circles. The entire structure was on a small hill surrounded by flat grassland stretching to the horizon.

"That explains why the structure was built here."

"Huh?"

"The uniform surroundings means this hill would be seen as a holy place."

"Dad, there's something moving out there." Conner pointed out into the distance.

"That's just Shot, Key, and Birch. They went to find the edge of the area. There, they've stopped." Sticks said, grinning and waving at Birch.

"I can barely see them. The shield wall must be massive. However, I feel that I should punish those three for taking off like that."

"But Daddy, they're coming back."

"Don't worry, Bit. I'm just going to talk with them. After all, I gave all of you free run of the last area so it's partly my own fault."

"Alpha, that wasn't why I called you, look."

He pointed to the right where the sun was already touching the horizon. "I guess Birch will have an extra night to make his decision."

"Sorry Sticks, but it isn't as late as you think. Remember we're on another world. A world where sunset takes place at a different time compared to our world. Now I want you three to wait here until the runners get back, then meet me in the central area and we'll all go back to House."

Once back inside the ring I inspected the altar stone looking for any form of writing. At each corner was a hole, presumably where chains or ropes had once been secured. There were two more holes drilled in the surface of the altar. The first, if my measurements were correct was directly above the bowl in the cave. The second was farther down; possibly an attachment point.

I smirked, as the pieces started to fall into place. This was likely some sort of fertility temple. A male would be strapped to the altar, his penis lined up with the central collection point. He was likely artificially stimulated by whatever was attached in the second hole. The poor male would then be milked and his seed would be sent into the planet. However in reality it was collected and divided among those in the cave below.

I ran my finger around the inside of the collection hole only to quickly pull it back out. A purplish black mouth like structure slid out of the hole followed by more tentacles from the other holes.

"Please, feed us. It has been so long since the Masters left us. We only need a small amount of seed to sustain our life. We will return what we do not need in the chamber below."

"You are the Guardian here?"

"Yes, that is what the one called House called us when he taught us to create the invisible wall."

I took a moment to look around and felt startled that the upright stones had the same tentacles extending from them, except for those still in the light of the setting sun.

"You're light sensitive."

"No, only the light directly from the sun hurts us."

"Are you a single entity or does each stone hold a different being?"

"Once there were many, now there is only one. The Life Bearers created us when their Seed Givers were no longer able to put offspring in them. We took the seed that was weak to sustain ourselves. The strongest seed was implanted in the Life Bearers and the rest was returned to the best seed givers to make them stronger. For many years we provided service but each year we received less seed then new Seed Givers come and take all Seed Givers and Life Bearers away."

"Hey Dad, everyone's back. What's that?" Connor asked as they entered the circle.

"This is the Guardian for this world."

"Oh, okay."

I was surprised that they just accepted my explanation without any other questions. "I want all of you to go back to House and decide what you want to have for lunch. I'll join you after I've finished learning about the Guardian."

"Can we have ice cream?" Bit asked.

"I'll think about it. Now go have Chef make you something and I'll let you know my decision when I get there."

"Come on everyone! Let's go!" Bit yelled scurrying toward the stairs.

I waited until they had all left. "Cubs, they have more energy than they know what to do with. Now Guardian, what are your requirements?"

"As we said, we don't need much to sustain ourselves."

"Yes, but I don't want you grabbing one of the cubs if they happen to visit in the night."

"No, House made it very clear that you are the one in charge. If we do anything to upset you he will cut off access to my world and we will die like all the others. We can survive for a year on a single milking or many years if we return to our dormant state and withhold all of the seed for nourishment."

Before I could change my mind I sat on the altar stone. "What do you need me to do?"

"You- you are going to give us nourishment? House told us it may be many days before you felt comfortable enough for a milking."

"I believe in helping those in need and you are likely starving."

"Yes we are, however Seed Givers often give better nourishment if they are comfortable. It has been such a long time, please give us a moment to fully awaken."

I watched as small tendrils extended from the sides of the altar and wiggled their way across the stone.

"Please stand so that I can properly cover the altar stone."

I stood up and more tendrils extended. As they progressed they wove themselves into a loose mat leaving the two openings in the surface of the stone unobstructed. Suddenly they started to rapidly expand forming a thick cushion.

"Stretch out on the mat making sure your male shaft is aligned to the collection point."

"The collection point is the upper opening?"

"That is correct."

I did as requested but I was still soft. Not surprising as tentacle play wasn't something I found stimulating. However the mat perfectly conformed to my body and was extremely comfortable. I gasped as the tendrils started caressing me, gently stimulating all the sensitive areas on the front of my body. I stretched out and grabbed the upper corners of the stone as the warm wet collection tube wrapped itself around my shaft.

I gasped, and a bulb shot into my mouth, as tentacles suddenly wrapped around my wrists and ankles. I instinctively bit down and the gag deflated slightly but before I could force it out more of the creature wrapped around my head holding it in place. More tendrils extended from the side and wrapped over my back cocooning me from the neck down.

"Please, stop fighting. We are not going to hurt you. This is part of the milking process. Just relax and experience the pleasure we are trying to provide."

I tried to relax, really I did, but my extreme aversion to being restrained wasn't making it easy. Suddenly the bulb in my mouth started secreting some sort of sap. At first it had no taste but gradually the flavor changed. First it was extremely salty and then overly sweet. It continued to change as though it was trying to test every one of my taste buds. Fortunately I was able to spit the foul sap out around the gag. Eventually it released a flavor, combination that I'd never tasted before, so good I couldn't help but suck on the bulb for more.

"Good, now we can begin. Our sap will stimulate your system making you much more sensitive and increasing your productivity."

I fought briefly against my confinement as I realized what the second hole in the stone contained as the cocoon spread my cheeks exposing my hole. I didn't really react as the thin tendril slid inside, only really noticing it once it found my prostate. Then I really noticed as it expanded. The anal probe didn't seem to be as large as Birch had been but as it started pumping in and out it altered its shape. My last really coherent thought was that the tendril, like the gag, was looking for the shape that provided the most stimulation.

***

I groaned as the world slowly came into focus. I was on my back still supported and being gently massaged by the creature. Its feeding tube was still wrapped around my cock only stimulating it enough to keep me erect.

"We apologize, it has been so long since our last feeding that we misjudged the amount of syrup and stimulation required. Even after we finish draining your production glands our syrup will continue to stimulate seed production. You will need to ejaculate or return here for draining multiple times in the next couple of days."

"What the fuck!"

There was a tentacle inside me! I could feel it as it slowly slid out of my urethra.

"Your system has been over stimulated and will produce excessive amounts of seed. Far more than can safely remain. If you or we do not drain the excess your health will be in jeopardy."

"No, part of you is inside my- my-"

"Yes, we take the seed directly from the source so that it is as viable as possible. Stimulating the ejaculation response is to encourage a higher fertility rate, not to actually collect your seed. Most males find our direct internal stimulation enjoyable, after getting past the stigma against male penetration."

I moaned and jerked as a dry orgasm racked my body caused by the tendril passing my prostate.

"We thought it wouldn't be a problem for you after detecting semen residue in your anal tract. There we have finished."

The cushion remained under me as I stared up at the three moons. I felt, drained but there was no pain not even from the urethral penetration. "How many males can you take at once?"

"We have the ability to service up to sixty Seed Givers at one time. Though we have never had the opportunity for a group larger than six and three Life Bearers."

"You service females as well?"

"Of course. That is our primary objective. We milk the Seed Givers, analyze their seed, implant the very best in the Life Bearer, sustain our self with the least wanted portion, and deposit the bulk in the cave below for the priests' rituals."

"I may bring the cubs back later for a ritual of my own, including a milking. However one of the cubs isn't to have any anal penetration for another day due to an injury."

"Do not fear, we will be able to detect such problems and adjust to best stimulate him without risking further injury."

"Also the youngest cub, though highly sexually active is still too young to produce seed."

"If he drinks our sap his sexual organs will immediately begin early maturation. However, it will only affect his ability to produce semen and prostatic fluid. His body will mature at a normal rate."

"So the only change is he will produce ejaculate."

"Yes, the ejaculate will remain non-viable until puberty, but yes, that is correct."

"Good, I will definitely bring the cubs back for a very special ritual. Keep all of my seed to sustain yourself."

“Thank you, my lord."

***

"Birch, I want you to be absolutely sure this is what you want. You can change your mind right up until you sign the papers. Once you sign that's it there is no backing out, you'll be a slave for a minimum of ten years."

"Are you really trying to talk me out of becoming your pleasure slave? Out of everything I've seen so far, that's got to be the craziest yet."

"Really? I thought walking into the wolf village and forcing the Alpha to eat his brother's balls would take that spot."

"You might be right, with everything that has happened I might not be thinking as clearly as I should. Still, if nothing else I need to be there for my mate when you involve him in another insane situation."

"If you're sure then let's get this over with."

We walked in on another odd situation. A young cougar sat on the bench crying as, who I assumed to be his parents yelled at the desk attendants. One, a journeyman squirrel, cowered back from the irate cougars while the master, a chipmunk half the male cougar's size, stoically stood his ground. Since I knew the random event generator was still off this scene had to be directly related to something I'd done.

The cougars stopped yelling when they finally noticed the chipmunk had ceased paying attention to them and was now giving me the evil eye.

"You again. Don't you think, between the King's Shadow and your meddling, you've caused enough trouble?"

"Master Cross, that is out of line. Lord Lightstripe had nothing to do with this situation." The Guild Master said, as he arrived.

"I apologize, Guild Master Reginald."

"It is not to me that you owe an apology."

"I apologize, Lord Lightstripe."

I could hear his teeth grinding and the insincerity in his voice. I just grinned. "Think nothing of it. We all have days when our mouths work without thinking."

"Lord Lightstripe, if you will follow me into my office, there is a situation that you may be able to help me with."

The rat turned and I grabbed Birch's wrist. "Stay close, I don't know what is going on, but right now it probably isn't safe to wait here."

"Yes, sir."

We followed the Guild Master down a hall lined with pictures of former masters and into his lavish office. I immediately noticed the white mouse apprentice that had helped the King's Shadow. As we approached he quickly wiped his eyes and sat up straight. The Guild Master didn't seem to notice as his attention was focused entirely on the black shadow coin mounted behind his desk. As he turned he noticed that I was looking at it.

"You like it? It was a gift from the King's Shadow for helping with the situation yesterday. I'm proud to say that I'm the first Guild Master to ever receive a shadow coin."

"Congratulations."

"Oh, but what am I going on about? The Shadow seems to think highly of you, so I'm sure you have one."

"Yeah, I have a couple. I can't say as I've really kept track. I'm not big on pointless gestures, unlike your esteemed self I have nowhere to put them on display and it's not like they can be used as currency. It's probably why he started giving me summoning scrolls. He knew I'd pass them on to individuals that might actually need his help. However, I don't think rare coins is really the reason you asked me in here."

"Actually, it is indeed the reason you are here. I have a difficult situation and I would like your help in solving it. You see, yesterday the King's Shadow presented apprentice Mika with a silver coin for helping him compose a letter and the delivery of that letter along with the shadow coin to me."

"That seems straight forward enough."

"Yes, but that is where things get difficult. Mika then gave the coin to his, let's say friend, Ghost; to help him pay off his family's debt. He was helping them so that they wouldn't have to sell Ghost into slavery. It seems he has been giving Ghost a portion of his earnings for some time now. "

"I still don't see the problem. It seems that the money was Mika's and he had the right to give it away if he wanted."

The Guild Master sighed. "Ghost's family knew what was going on, of course, and did use the extra money to pay down their debt. However, when Ghost gave them the shiny new silver they jumped to the wrong conclusion. They immediately brought Ghost here and turned him over to the guild as a thief. Master Cross, not knowing the full details or speaking with me, filled out the paper work on both Mika and Ghost."

"As the Guild Master can't you reject the paperwork as improperly done?"

"Ordinarily yes. Now I must admit a dereliction on my own part in this, as I really did not realize it, but it seems Master Cross has been harboring a vendetta against Mika. He took it upon himself to register Mika and Ghost with the city guard as thieves making their slave status a matter of public record. Doing so made it impossible for me to undo."

"Um, could the King or the King's Shadow undo-" Birch trailed off at the look of absolute terror on the Guild Master's face.

"Oh Gods! The King's Shadow left a warning that I'd pay if Mika was punished for having that coin."

"No, Birch. Even the King and his Shadow can't change a slave's status once it is made public. Master Reginald, I'm sure the King's Shadow won't hold you responsible for this mess. Master Cross on the other hand may have a lot to worry about."

"What about making their parents their owners?" Birch asked.

"Yes, that might work for Mika since he was a guild apprentice he could be 'sold' to his grandparents." Master Reginald said.

"It's not my future I'm worried about, Ghost doesn't have any extended family he can be sold to and a parent cannot own a slave that is their own child." Mika sniffled.

"What about selling Ghost to Mika's parents or grandparents?" I asked.

"That isn't going to work. Ghost is a cat and my parents are, unfortunately, speciest when it comes to cats. It's also why this is going to get a lot worse. When Ghost and I first became friends my parents forebade me from ever being around him. When they discover that I've been giving him a portion of my earnings instead of sending it all to them . . ."

I could see the fear in his eyes as he trailed off.

“Master Reginald, if you can provide me with a room so that I can speak with Mika and Ghost perhaps I can find a way to smooth this situation just a bit."

"You can use my office."

"No, I think you will be needing your office to calm Ghost and Mika's parents and keep them from trying to kill each other."

"It isn't Mika's parent's I'm worried about, they may hate cats but they're not the violent types. It's his grandparents that I'm worried about. The Bakers are almost as scary as the King's Shadow."

I turned toward Mika and stared at him. All I could think was "Oh shit".

"The Bakers are your grandparents?" I asked.

"Yes Sir, they wanted me to be an apprentice baker, I guess that is where I'm going to end up, but I've always loved books and I wanted to learn to write. When it came time to choose an apprenticeship the only opening where I could learn those skills was here at the slave guild."

"Master Reginald, make sure Master Cross doesn't leave the premises. Lock him in a slave cage if you have to. I can now guarantee that you will be getting a visit from the King's Shadow."

"How can you be so sure?"

"I gave the Baker's one of the Shadow's summoning scrolls yesterday. When they arrive, before they start making demands or threats, let them know that I am here and after I've spoken with their grandson I'll be summoning the Shadow myself."

"All this mess over a single silver coin." Master Reginald moaned.

"Oh, I'm thinking this is about much more than just that coin."

***

When we entered the room Ghost was already seated. He had on an iron slave collar and his hands were cuffed. A heavy chain connected the collar to the cuffs and then to an iron ring in the table.

"Hello Ghost, I'm Lord Lightstripe, this is Birch, you already know Mika, and this is Guild Master Reginald."

"H-hello, your Lordships." Ghost mumbled.

"Please, referring to each of us as, 'Sir' will suffice."

Master Reginald stepped around the table and scowled. I moved around the other side and understood why. A belt held Ghost to the chair and his ankles were also shackled. Since his legs were too short to reach the floor the chain stretched them out. Even his tail had been cuffed and chained to the wall.

"Was it Master Cross, the chipmunk, who chained you up like this?"

"Yes Guild Master, um I mean, Sir."

"I believe the first order of business will be stripping him of his keys. The second will be locking his tail in a very small cage." Master Reginald practically growled.

"I'll come with you. I want to get the key to remove most of those ridiculous chains. Birch, I want you to stay here. You can tell them why we came here today. Maybe a bit about what Sticks' new brothers are like and what I expect from them. Oh and tell Mika about the library."

As we left the room Master Reginald sent a passing apprentice scrambling to find a couple of guards while we continued onward. It wasn't hard to find Master Cross. He was at the front desk where I had last seen him. The Squirrel was also there but now his eye was swollen.

"Master Cross, where are the cougar's parents?"

"They've gone home. Now that they have the documents guaranteeing them any profits, minus the guild fees of course, of their son's sale on auction day."

"Really? They seemed rather upset when we were in here earlier."

He glared at me. "That's because that fool of a journeyman couldn't fill out the paperwork properly. I'd just returned and was calming them down when you interrupted."

"Cross, please turn over your keys

"Master Reginald?" He asked, as if he had misheard.

"You heard me. You are being stripped of your rank and position now turn over your keys."

"Listen Reggie, I have powerful friends and-"

"They are not as important as you may think."

I was surprised to see the King's Shadow appear but was quick enough to pull out a scroll and break the seal so it would look like I had summoned him.

"Lord Lightstripe, I was on my way here to have words with the Guild Master when you summoned me. I can only assume it isn't a coincidence?"

"Correct, it wasn't the Guild Master that registered Mika, the mouse you gave the silver coin to, as a thief. In fact he asked me to help him find a way out of this mess."

"Then who is responsible?"

"Former Master Cross, the chipmunk you are holding."

"Former Master? Then he no longer has any standing or protections provided by the guild?"

"That is correct Lord Shadow." Master Reginald stated quite plainly.

"Cross, the King has had complaints made against you in the past. Then you had the protection of the guild. As the Master Disciplinarian we did not think the accusations had any merit. After all, The Guild Master was expected to deal with you. Now I see we should all have been more vigilant. Master Reginald, summon some guards and have Cross caged. Then you will tell me the full story."

"Shadow, with your leave, I'd like to get the keys to the chains currently binding one of Cross' victims."

"He hasn't chained up that nice mouse apprentice, has he?"

"No, it is Mika's friend that is chained."

"Guild Master, give Lord Lightstripe the keys. Prowl-Ar, do not leave. I'm going to need to speak with you again."

"Yes, Sir."

With the keys in hand I headed back toward the holding room. As soon as I was in the deserted hallway I stopped.

"Program pause. Mahan, what the hell?"

"In order to better establish you and the Shadow as separate characters I decided to play the part of The King's Shadow. I can only do so for short scenes where the scenario will not be affected. You will need to take over the role just after Master Reginald finishes reporting the proceeding events, unless you want to hear it all again?"

"No, program continue."

As I entered Ghost was crying again, Mika was holding his hand, and Birch just looked confused. I bent down and started trying keys to find the one that fit the ankle cuffs. "Birch, what happened?"

"I- I don't know. I told them about the library and how you expected your slaves to learn to read and write. Then I explained about the self-defense classes and I even told them about the worlds that house linked to where we could go to play. Then I was telling them about Sticks and my situation and Ghost started crying. I didn't even get to the um, intimate parts."

I sighed. I'd finished unlocking the leg cuffs and had moved on to the tail binder. "Ghost, I know this must be hard for you, especially when you just thought you were safe from slavery, but the truth is you are now a slave and there is no way to change that."

I slammed my fist against the wall causing all thee to flinch. "Sorry, that wasn't directed at any of you. I'm just venting a bit of frustration because each type of cuff requires a different key. So, as I was saying, as things stand you are to be sold at the next auction as a thief. If no one bids on you, you'll be executed."

"But he didn't steal anything!" Mika yelled.

"Everyone here knows that, Mika. I'm just stating the facts of the situation as they currently stand. You have less to worry about because, I know for a fact, your Grandparents have the gold to purchase you directly from the guild. Ghost doesn't have that luxury."

"I- isn't there anything that can be done?" Ghost timidly asked.

"Do you know what a pleasure slave is?" I moved on to the lock holding the lap belt in place.

"It's a slave that only exists to sexually pleasure his master."

"No, that's a sex slave. A pleasure slave is taught how to respond to the master's sexual needs as well as his or her emotions. A sex slave only exists as a sexual object without personality or personal needs. Overall pleasure slaves often have the best life any slave can hope for." Mika explained.

"Okay Mika, since you know so much, why did I ask Ghost if he knew what a pleasure slave is?"

The belt came free and I started working on the lock connecting the chain to the collar.

"Do I really have to answer that?" Mika asked.

"You are a slave and I'm a Lord, what do you think?"

"For the most part there are only three reasons masters buy slaves as young as we are." Mika started.

"You can leave out the one that the King has now banned."

Mika sighed. "Thank you, Sir. So there are two main reasons, we are bought either as sex slaves or pleasure slaves. There are rare occasions that cubs are purchased for other reasons such as breeding purposes or if a master is looking for an heir but is unable to sire cubs of their own."

"And how often are cubs purchased as pleasure slaves when they have a criminal mark like thievery against them?"

"Sir, please don't."

I just stared at him until he broke. Tears streaming from his eyes he admitted the terrible truth. "You'll either be sold as a sex slave or executed."

"Now, I'm going to give you a choice. You can choose to become one of my pleasure slaves or take your chances on the open auction.

*Redacted*

"Sir, you're not making what you expect sound much different than a sex slave." Birch pointed out.

"Perhaps, but you already told him all about the rewards of being my slave otherwise you wouldn't be considering becoming one of my slaves when you could simply walk out of here." I moved back around the table and sat in the chair facing Ghost.

"He didn't get to that part. You're actually planning on willingly giving up your freedom?" Mika asked.

"My mate is already one of his slaves and I'm not going to leave him. Besides, from what I've seen and experienced, it really isn't bad at all. It's actually a better life than what I've experienced in the herd or seen here in town."

"Lord Lightstripe, if I agree what about my parents? If I agree to become your slave how will they be paid?"

"You don't need to worry about that. I have some ideas but I'll have to discuss it with the Shadow."

"If they'll be able to get out of debt without my little brother or sister being sold in a couple of years, then I accept your offer. It sounds better than the other possibilities."

"Um, Birch, what is it like, having sex with other males I mean." Mika asked.

"I uh." Birch blushed and looked away.

"Go on Birch, I'd like to hear your answer." I said leaning back and watching him.

"I'm not sure how to answer, since I don't have any experience with females to compare it to."

*Redacted*

"Why is that?" He asked.

"Have you started playing with yourself yet? Never mind, you know what makes you feel pleasure so you automatically know what will give a male partner pleasure. The reverse is of course true about two females. Truthfully I'm surprised more societies haven't diverged only having the two genders come together long enough to procreate and then again for the mothers to give their male children to the father. Sorry, I got a bit side tracked there. Why did you want to know?"

"It's just, I really don't want to be stuck as a baker and if you really will be teaching your slaves how to read and write maybe the whole sex thing wouldn't be so bad."

I sighed. “Kiss Ghost."

"What?" Both Mika and Ghost gasped.

"If you become my slave you will be Ghost's mate. So kiss him."

"I- I've never-"

*Redacted*

All four of us jumped as we heard what sounded like a roar. Mika fell back on the table panting as Ghost went down backward with his chair yowling as his tail bent at an awkward angle. The second yell was a little clearer considering we were focused on it.

"Where the hell is my grandson?"

"Mika, are you sure about this?" I asked.

"More than ever. I love Grandfa, but there is no way I want to be his apprentice or his slave."

"Fine, get three standard slave contracts filled out, but don't complete them, there are a few special additions I'm going to want to add. Plus you probably no longer have the authority to complete them anyway. Also, you may want to prepare yourself, the King's Shadow will likely question you as to why former Master Cross hated you."

***

Once in the hallway I paused again. "Where is Shadow now?"

"The King's Shadow avatar is in the main reception area with Guild Master Reginald, Mika's parents and Grandparents."

"Great. When I press my middle finger against my palm, just below my thumb on either hand, it is a signal for a pause to change my point of view to my other avatar. That way I can play both at once without having to double back and replay the sequence."

"Adjustments complete, you may proceed."

I sighed, straitened my posture, steeled my nerve, and stepped out into the fray. Mr. Baker was so busy yelling at everyone that no one noticed my entry.

"I don't care what your problems are, I'm here to get my grandson. I'd prefer if you freed him from this nonsense, but if I have to buy him as a slave I'll do that."

"Mr. Baker, if you'll just calm down."

"Shut up. I knew it was a mistake when he applied to your guild for an apprenticeship and I told you as much. If you refuse to let him go or sell him to me then I've got this scroll that says the Shadow over there owes me a favor and I'll be calling it in. Mark my words I will be walking out of here with my grandson."

"What if he doesn't want to leave with you?" I asked.

The mouse turned and glared. "At this point what he wants doesn't matter."

I switched places.

"Actually it matters a great deal. Perhaps Lord Lightstripe forgot to tell you, but that scroll doesn't have any binding power over me. While I will of course honor the contract I can choose whether the favor you're asking for is within my power to grant or even if it is worth granting. You also can't just up and ask me to break the King's laws. Right now this situation is unique and complicated so it is going to take some time to work out the details. Now, Lord Lightstripe, what did you have to say?"

I switched back to my own point of view. "Mika loves his grandfather and he would rather become my slave rather than risk that relationship by having it become a master/slave relationship."

"He doesn't know what he would be getting into if he-"

"He has been an apprentice in the slave guild for some time and I was quite graphic when I was making sure he understood what he was considering. Mika knows exactly what he's getting into."

"It's that damn cat's fault, isn't it? Father, I told you that cat would take advantage of him."

I laughed. I really couldn't help myself after seeing the look Mika's mother gave Mr. Baker.

"Are you laughing at my wife?"

"Of course not, I'm laughing at both of you speciest fools. Mika warned me that you would be upset. I doubt it will help things but Mika is the dominant personality in their relationship."

"Are you implying that my son is a tail raiser?"

"Absolutely not. Right now he prefers his partners raise their tails."

"First befriending a cat and now this, he is no son of mine. Come along, Dear, we're-" He turned only to discover his wife was already disappearing out the door.

I prepared myself for a sort of dual monologue and switched back into Shadow. "Lord Lightstripe, you've crossed the line."

I switched back for my reply.

"Like hell I have! Crossing the line would have been wringing that assholes neck. If Mika had been here to hear what he said that mouse would be heading for a healer instead of home. No, I was being honest and forcing them to see the truth about their son. If they can't accept it that's their problem. It's better for Mika this way. He doesn't need to hide the truth from himself and everyone around him in a misguided attempt to conform to his parents ideas about a perfect son. If they can't accept him for who he is they don't deserve to be his parents."

"Are you really sure he prefers males?"

"No, Mr. Baker, I'm not sure. Mika is at an age where he is just starting to explore his sexuality. It is possible that he will eventually decide that he finds females more attractive than males. Right now it is rather obvious he has feelings for Ghost. If you really think forcing him to be your slave against his will is what is best I won't fight you over it, he might, but I won't."

"Can I at least try to convince him that he would be better off with me and his Grandmother?"

"Oh, I insist on it. I want him to be absolutely sure that his choice is the right one so that he doesn't have any regrets."

I again switched to the Shadow. "Before any kind of decision can be made I need to investigate why this situation started. Master Reginald, I'm going to need you to send someone to bring Ghost's parents back to the guild. I'd suggest at least a journeyman and he or she should have good diplomatic skills. After all, I imagine they've been having a very hard day as well. Lord Lightstripe, if you could escort us to the boy's location, I have some questions that need to be answered. Oh, and Guild Master, have the parents escorted back as soon as they arrive. No wait, Mr. Baker please wait here for Ghost's parents. I think I'll interview Cross first. Perhaps he'll condemn himself. Lord Lightstripe, you seem to be a magnet for trouble lately so you will come with Guild Master Reginald and myself where I can keep an eye on you, but you're to remain silent."

As soon as I switched back to myself I sighed, playing two parts at the same time was exhausting. Mr. Baker gave me a sympathetic look and even Guild Master Reginald seemed surprised. "As you command Master Shadow."

"Former Master Cross is this way, Sirs."

When we arrived at the holding area Cross was pacing inside his cage. Two guards stood at attention. I switched back to Shadow's point of view.

"What the hell is this? I ordered him to be placed in a small cage."

"Master, this is a small cage considering Master Cross' rank."

"He has no rank and when I said small I meant the discipline cages where he would be unable to move. When we are done here you will transfer him to one of those cages."

"You may be the Guild Master but you don't have the authority to do that."

"Like hell I don't"

"Master Reginald, please contain yourself. At least until we've finished with him. Cross, you have a lot to answer for."

"I suppose you're going to take the word of a thief over mine?"

“Mika-"

"Had a lot to say I bet. He's a liar and a thief. Most of the things were even legal until the King's latest edict."

"So, is he telling the truth that you were authorized in your actions or is he lying?"

"Uh."

"Why don't you tell us your version?" Master Reginald suggested.

"Fine. You have to understand he has been a problem since he arrived. He was constantly acting like he loved being here. He frequently took on extra duties and favors for the other Masters."

"He was dedicated to learning." Master Reginald pointed out.

"Hah! He even has you fooled. No apprentice is that dedicated unless he has an ulterior motive. I only hope the silver was all he stole."

"Fine you've been suspicious of him since day one. So moving on to his first charge."

"Yes, I had him assemble special slave catalogues for some of the auctions. There is nothing in the Guild's rules forbidding such actions and it brought in more income for the Guild for almost no loss."

"Why didn't you submit the special catalogue to my office for review?"

"A copy of every catalogue was sent to your office. If you didn't see it then someone must have taken them."

"Since I never received any of these 'special' catalogues what did they contain?" Master Reginald asked.

"More in-depth information about the slaves tailored to the individual's preferences. As an example one for Lord Lightstripe would focus on cubs suitable as pleasure slaves with extended histories as to why the cub was being sold as a slave."

"I see. Moving on to the topic of the silver coin."

"I knew something was up when we returned from the brothel raids. That mouse had a very smug look and I saw him pocket something. I didn't know it was a silver coin at the time, but I knew he'd gotten away with something. When they brought in that stolen silver coin I knew what had happened. I had to act quickly to make sure the criminals were punished."

"Why didn't you bring the matter to me first? As Guild Master it is my responsibility to handle such things."

"Your pardon, Master, but you've indulged that mouse more than any other Master. If I'd brought the matter to you it wouldn't have been resolved only hidden away allowing the mouse to get away with even more. Perhaps even that black coin you love so much."

"Speaking of that coin, did you ever consider how I received it?"

"No Sir."

"Mika delivered it to him. Along with a note warning Master Reginald that I had given Apprentice Mika a silver coin for helping me when the Guild was otherwise deserted."

"You, but-"

"Had you consulted with Guild master Reginald you would have known that. However, you took it on yourself to make slaves of not one, but two innocent boys. One of which was under my protection. Now, I'm going to go and speak with Ghost and Mika. You should contemplate on an appropriate punishment. If the cub's version of events are similar to what you've told us then I'll return, before speaking with the King, and if you come up with a punishment that fits the situation I may consider it."

***

Mr. Baker and the cougars joined us as we continued to the cub's location. The room was a bit crowded but everyone got in.

"I thought there were only two cubs involved."

"Sorry Shadow, this is Birch. He's Sticks mate. Sticks is the young wolf you placed in my care."

"And why is he here?"

"He is here to freely register himself as my slave, so that he can remain with his mate."

"You would willingly give up your freedom and become a pleasure slave just to be with him?"

"I'd do anything I have to, to stay with my mate." Birch said glaring at the Shadow as if challenging him.

"Lord Lightstripe, I know I don't need to tell you this, make sure that Birch and Sticks have a good life together. They really are something special."

"Actually, Birch here has already been a real pain in my rump if you get my meaning, Sir."

"Good for both of you, now why don't you both finish filling out any paperwork and give the rest of us a bit more room in here."

"Yes, Sir." Birch and I exited the room. Once in the hall I paused the game and switched back to the perspective of the Shadow. When this event was over I was going to need a massive pain killer for the headache that was rapidly developing.

"That's a bit better. Now Mika, tell us about former Master Cross. I want you to tell me everything you know about him."

"Master Cross is, or was, in charge of slave security and discipline. That means it was his job to make sure the slaves didn't escape and that they were ready for sale. As I understood it he had no disciplinary powers, beyond those of any other master, over guild members."

"That is true, though there have been a few occasions when the Guild Security Master has tasked Cross with security responsibilities when our forces are spread thin like yesterday." Master Reginald stated.

"Go on."

"In his position he gets closer to the slaves, sellers and potential buyers than the other Masters. Because of this he had more information than what the standard catalogue form contained. So each week he would have me write up a second catalogue for privileged buyers. At first I thought this was normal. I needed the practice so I didn't mind the extra work."

"Why didn't you turn in a copy of the special catalogue?"

"I did, Master. The last thing I'd do before bed, the night before the regular catalogue was to be checked, is place both in your in box."

"Continue."

"After a few weeks I started noticing marks that didn't make sense to me. I thought they were just smudges so I didn't copy them down but Master Cross got really angry and made sure the next catalogue had the marks. Of course I got suspicious so when I turned in the catalogues I left Master Reginald a note about it. When I didn't hear back I understood that it wasn't important. Next I found that there were certain inconsistencies between the two catalogues. So, I started checking the older slave records to see if I could decipher the marks."

"Please explain the inconsistencies." I said as I was starting to form an idea where this was heading.

“The standard record would list one age while the special catalogue would have another often much younger than the legal age limit. However, the few earlier records I could find, had marks after the slave's age."

"How many marks did you translate?"

"Age, weight, temperament, virginity, rarity, number of bid cards available, and service charge."

"Why didn't you report this?"

"I did Master, I turned in a letter each with the catalogs every time I translated a mark. And when I discovered that many of the records for the youngest slaves had disappeared. You never made any changes. Finally for the last auction I sent a copy to the King and he made his decree."

"Who did you send the letter with?"

"A member of the City Guard."

"Species?" I asked.

"Wolf, Sir."

"Your letter never reached the King. The guard is obviously the one that has already been dealt with."

"If the King didn't receive my letter then what about his decree?"

"Lord Lightstripe brought it to my attention that one of the slaves he saved from being eaten was younger than had been listed."

"The King, whom I might add was rather upset to discover that the Guild was selling slaves to be eaten, had me start an investigation. Master Reginald, while I believe you are likely innocent it would seem that you have more problem members than just Cross. I look forward to reports on your internal investigation."

"Yes, Master Shadow."

"Now on to the matter of the silver coin. Master Reginald, do you have it?"

"Yes, here it is."

"Thank you. Now let's recreate what happened. I gave this coin to Mika for helping me yesterday."

I passed the coin to Mika. He passed it to Ghost.

"I gave it to Ghost so that no one in his family would have to be sold into slavery."

Ghost slid the coin across the table to his parent without saying a word.

"Oh Papa, what have we done?" Ghost's mother started to cry.

"Is there nothing we can do to correct our mistake?" the Male cougar asked.

"I'm sorry, but there really isn't. However, Lord Lightstripe is willing to accept your son as one of his slaves. I understand how your son becoming a pleasure slave may seem like a horrible future but it is better than risking the open auction."

"Lord Lightstripe seems really nice and at least I'll be able to write to you once I learn how." Ghost said, patting his mother's hand.

"What do you mean?" his father asked.

"I met Lord Lightstripe yesterday when he came in after paying off the debt of his slave. He has some rather strange ideas about his slaves. He is teaching them how to read and write as well as self-defense and God knows what else. He even let three of them go off unsupervised even though he'd owned two of them less than an hour." Mr. Baker said.

"Yes, and after what happened I doubt he is going to do that again until they've received self-defense training. He treats his slaves almost better than family."

"Almost?" Mr. Baker asked.

*Redacted*

I portalled out of the room. "Pause and return me to the point where Birch and I left the room.

***

"Come on, let's go back to the front desk and get your paperwork finished. So, did Mika go over everything with you?"

"Yes, Sir, he explained everything quite thoroughly and explicitly. I think he was trying to convince me that giving up my freedom was a mistake."

"Are you having second thoughts?"

"Of course I'm having second thoughts, but I'm not going to change my mind. I trust Sticks completely, but I'm not going risk him developing feelings for another mate assigned to him. Besides, I'm not going to lie, life in House's realm is better than trying to make it on my own out in the forest."

"Just as long as you understand what you're getting into. Now let me read over the registration papers."

We sat down on the bench in the lobby and I carefully started reading over the papers. I took my time trying to waste as much as possible so that time had a chance to equalize. It didn't take long for Birch to get antsy, probably worried that I may be having second thoughts.

"Birch, wait here. I need to have a few changes made to your papers since this is a special situation."

I stood up and walked to the main desk. The journeyman squirrel was gone and in his place was an ancient skunk, his fur was more gray than black and his stripes were silver.

"Ah, good day young sir, I am Archive Master Ashe. How can the guild help you today?"

"Good day Master Ashe, I am Lord Lightstripe, and I'm here to register a new slave. However, I'd like to make some changes to the form before having Guild Master Reginald approve it."

"Young Lord, any master can complete a slave registration and Master Reginald is quite indisposed today."

"I know, that is why I can't have this paperwork approved. I've been pulled into the Cross situation so I cannot finalize any transactions until that situation is resolved."

"Of course, of course. What changes do you wish to make to the form?"

Master Ashe took the form from me and pulled out a quill.

"I need an addendum stating that if any situation takes place where I can no longer own slaves then Birch has the option and the right to buy his freedom by paying his original purchase price. Additionally, once freed he also has first rights to purchase my slave, registration number 511075, Sticks, for the price listed on his registration papers."

"Done, just let me check over the complete form."

I patiently waited for his comment.

"You haven't filled out the section on his purchase price. Without that information your addendum doesn't make any sense."

I took the registration back and the quill and put a '0' on the purchase price area. Bellow it I wrote out 'subject willingly gave up his freedom and no money changed hands'. I gave back the quill and held the paper to dry.

"Your Lordship, I need to check over the registration to be sure it is correct."

"Not to worry, now that it is completed Master Reginald will give it one last check before signing it."

I motioned for Birch to follow me. I discretely checked the timer on my watch. The Shadow had just left the room. As we approached the meeting room the door opened and Mika stuck his head out.

"Lord Lightstripe, Master Reginald would like you to join us."

Birch rolled his eyes and sat down on the hall bench. "When will this day be over?"

"Just give me a minute."

I entered the meeting room and all eyes were on me.

"Guild master, could I have you look over and sign off on this registration so that the slave I brought in for registration can be collared."

"I suppose I could do that since we need to wait for the King's Shadow to return. Let me see the paperwork. Ah yes, most of this is in Mika's hand. No matter how this situation turns out I'm sure the Guild will be missing him more than Cross. I see that he is becoming your slave of his own free will. That is unusual but not completely unheard of. Yes, yes all of this is standard and correct. He has signed off. Wait, what is this?"

He read the addendum several times glancing at me as if he was going to say something. "Lord Lightstripe, this is highly irregular and possibly illegal. Not to mention a threat to your own life if either of the slaves mentioned learn about this." He finally stated.

"If both yourself and The Shadow sign off on the registration both will be informed immediately. Much like the situation today their enslavement was a unique situation. I promised them that they would be freed in ten years this addendum guarantees that fact."

"Yes, but this gives them a motive to kill you."

"Perhaps, but then again they have already seen that I can offer them more as my slaves than they could ever achieve on their own."

"Fine I'll sign it but you'll need the mark of the King's Shadow to make it legal."

"All I need is your signature and I can collar Birch and then send him home."

"Mika, sorry, I keep forgetting you're no longer a guild apprentice." Master Reginald said.

"I'm still an apprentice until you sign my registration papers."

"Well said. Run get journeyman Jay, he can escort Lord Lightstripe's slave."

"Birch knows the way and he isn't going to try and escape. Not after all the effort I put in trying to convince him to keep his freedom."

"You don't seem to understand. Jay isn't there to keep him from running. I believe you know Guardsman Wren, Jay is his nephew. He will be providing extra protection. Until things start to settle down you really should consider spending a bit less time within the town walls."

"Yeah, I do seem to be attracting more than my fair share of trouble lately. If you'll excuse me I'll just put Birch's collar on him, give him a few last directions, and send him home."

"Just hurry up."

I stepped back out into the hall where Birch was waiting. I pulled a collar from my bag and held it up.

"This is your last chance to back out. Are you really sure you want to be my slave?"

"Just hurry up and get it over with so we can go home."

I worked the smart fabric, stretching it out longer and longer. When I was satisfied I dropped it over his head and antlers where it settled around his shoulders. Suddenly it contracted making him gasp before it settled into proper place.

"Wow, I've never seen a collar like that before."

"That Mika, is smart cloth and it's from another realm. As soft and light as cotton but if Birch tries to remove it, it will tighten around his neck until he loses consciousness from a lack of air."

"Probably feel nicer than iron collar, but I prefer iron."

"Hah, if you're anything like your uncle I can understand why."

"I don't get it." Mika said.

Jay lifted the iron collar he'd brought with him and proceeded to bend and fold it until it was molded into a shape resembling a feral elephant.

"Uncle Wren is Iron Breaker. I only bend, not break iron."

"That may be true but you have real skill as an artist." I pointed out.

Jay looked at the elephant and sighed. I shouldn't done that. I'm going be in trouble ruining guild property, again."

"Tell you what, I'll trade you four iron collars for your elephant sculpture and the guild doesn't have to know." I pulled the four iron collars from Bit, Conner, Shot, and Key from my bag. Jay's face lit up as he made the trade.

"Yes, I can return one and keep other three for next time I make mistake."

"Birch, Jay is here to escort you back to the apartment."

"I'm not going to run."

"I know that. Jay isn't going with you for that reason. He's escorting you to keep you safe. It seems I've made a lot of people angry in the last couple of days."

Birch laughed. "Yeah, I can understand that. Come on Jay, escort me home." They headed out Birch making sure jay was in the lead, but just barely.

"Well Mika, have you decided what you want? If you'd prefer to go with me I'd like to know now before I get into a fight with your Grandfather."

"I'd prefer not to be a slave, but since that isn't an option, if you really will allow me to continue my education then then I'd rather go with you. I really don't want to be stuck as a baker for the rest of my life."

I nodded and opened the door. "Let's get the negotiations started."

"Have you finished with the deer?" Master Reginald asked.

"Yes, Guild Master, and he is on his way home. All that is left is for Shadow's mark and the papers will be complete. Now on to the next transaction. You have two slaves here that I may be interested in purchasing."

"Absolutely not! I don't care how well you treat your slaves, there is no way I'm going to allow my grandson to become a sex slave."

"Pleasure slave, but that isn't really important. As a former apprentice and accused thief Mika's fate is in the hands of the Guild, not yours. Now, we have three choices. You and I can start a bidding war, which we both know I will win, we can work out a mutual understanding that will improve Mika's life, or we can continue to argue until Guild Master Reginald gets tired of us and decides to hold Mika for open auction. However, before we start, maybe you should ask Mika what he wants."

"I don't have to ask, I already know he wants to come home with me. No matter what you said earlier."

"No Grandfa. I'd really prefer to go with Master Lightstripe. He has promised to allow me to continue my education."

"You don't understand what you have to do in exchange."

"Actually I understand even better than you. I've been an apprentice over a year now, so I know all the slave classifications and what they are required to do."

"Perhaps I can improve the deal a bit. Mr. Baker, what would you say if, as part of his education, he is taught the skills needed to be a master baker including recipes from other realms? In ten years when he is freed, if he wishes, he'll have the skills to take over from you."

"What? I didn't agree to that!" Mika yelled.

"Hmm, skills and recipes from other realms. That is a tempting offer."

"No it isn't."

"Well, considering the unique circumstance, how about I make another unusual addition to the slave registration. When I say this I mean it for both Mika and Ghost, they will be allowed to spend the King's Holidays, birthdays, and up to five special occasions per year with their relatives. That way you can judge for yourselves that they are being treated fairly and see what they have learned."

"I think that is an acceptable arrangement." Mr. Baker smiled and nodded.

"But, your Lordship, Master Cross gave us papers saying that we would receive the money from Ghost when he was put on auction."

"All paperwork created by former Master Cross, after improperly registering Mika and Ghost as thieves without my approval, is counterfeit."

"I- I don't think it is about the papers. I don't earn much, but loosing what little I bring in will just put my parents further in debt." Ghost whispered.

"I thought Ghost would be the easy deal to make. Give me a few minutes to think about the best way to come up with a fair price."

I sat there as they stared at me for two minutes. "Pause, switch to Shadows point of view just after he portalled out of the meeting."

***

"Happy now that I'm being treated like a criminal?" Cross asked.

"You are a criminal."

"So the mouse's innocent act got to you as well, I'm not surprised."

"Have you done as I asked and thought of a suitable punishment?"

"Yeah, you let me out of this cage and leave me alone. After all you've already cost me my Masters position in the guild."

"You've caused hardship and suffering in two families, taken the freedom of two innocent young men, and that was the best you could come up with? You are very fortunate that I am bound by certain rules. The King has restricted me so that the punishment fits the crime. You are just fortunate that you were caught now before we could prove you were selling underage cubs and breaking the no selling slaves as food laws."

"I deny the first charge and the second was perfectly legal until the King's latest proclamation."

"True, but both the King and I know that wouldn't stop the trade. No, the edict was so that I would be better able to punish the guilty. Though like I said you were lucky I can't prove anything. When I arrived you mentioned that you had powerful friends. Would you like to make me a list?"

"Go to hell."

"It was worth a try. Anyway you had better hope they have large money pouches."

"What? Why?" Cross finally started to look scared.

I turned my back and portalled away. Arriving at my broom closet in the castle. "Computer, add a conversation about current events and the King's decision that this is primarily a Slave Guild matter. If I were to involve myself, any punishment I devised would ultimately be up to Guild Master Reginald. Now open a portal to the point where I paused the meeting."

No one noticed my arrival since they were watching the other me. "I feel I've missed something."

"Lord Shadow, Lord Lightstripe has just finished negotiations for Mika and is now trying to come up with a fair price for Ghost. However now that you have returned what was the King's verdict?"

"I am allowed to pass judgement on the situation, but because it is a Slave Guild matter, you Guild Master Reginald, have the final say in the matter."

"I see, so what is your ruling?"

"In addition to any deals Lord Lightstripe has already made, Master Reginald, you will turn over the silver coin that started this to Ghost's parents since it belongs to them. Lord Lightstripe, you will also pay one silver for each slave. Finally, former Master Cross will be sold at open auction and any profit, minus Guild fees, will be given to Ghost's family as was promised to them. Does this meet with your approval Master Reginald?"

"I- Yes that is satisfactory for the Guild's part. Though you will need to sign off on the registration papers considering the, interesting, additions Lord Lightstripe has added."

"Let me see. Holidays with family interesting but I don't see a problem there. Baking lessons, really? Mr. Baker, if Mika bothers to try, he may become the best baker in this realm. I can sign off on Mika as well. Wait, what is this third registration?"

"That is for Birch, the wolf pup's mate." Master Reginald pointed out.

"Lord Lightstripe, what is this foolishness? You do realize that this is breaking the slavery laws?"

"No, it's bending them for a special situation. Birch freely entered into the contract so if anything happens to me he can take the contract back. By the same token Sticks, Birch's mate, was placed in my possession, by you, so as a freed slave Birch can take over Stick's slave contract. Sticks will still be bound as a slave, he'll just have a different owner."

"And what is to keep them from killing you?"

"House for one, and the fear you will hunt them down and punish them for another."

"So be it. Is there anything else?"

"Yes, what if Cross isn't bought?" Ghost's father asked.

"Do not worry, he will be. If not by one of his 'friends' then Lord Lightstripe will buy him."

"I will?" My headache was turning into a full blown migraine and it took a moment to remember why I thought it would be a good idea to make myself buy Master Cross. Unfortunately, other than making sure Ghost's family were paid I couldn't remember the reason I'd just said that as the Shadow. Still I switched back.

I hoped to cover for my lapse in reasoning with the thought that came to mind. "Yes, we will speak on this matter later, privately. Master Reginald, you may want to find a way for Cross to hear that Lord Lightstripe is interested in purchasing him. As the King's Shadow I am limited in what punishments I am allowed to use. As a slave master, Lord Lightstripe has no such restrictions and he has access to most of the same other worldly realms that I do. Cross should also be allowed visitors so that he can beg them to save him. Just be sure the guards are loyal to you, or the guild, and keep carful notes on who visits him. Now I have other work to attend to."

I switched back to my normal point of view and Shadow portalled away. “Mika, come here. Now that the papers have been signed I need to get your collar on so we're not breaking the law."

"Yes, Master."

"Good, now go say your goodbyes to your grandfather while I change Ghost's collar."

As I pulled out another collar I also pulled out two silver coins and three gold. I placed the collar on Ghost. "Master Reginald, if you still have the keys can you remove this iron collar?"

"Of course."

I then approached Ghost's parents and pressed a silver and a gold into the male's hand. "I know this can never make up for your loss but it may help you stay out of debt and keep Ghost's siblings safe."

"But Lord Lightstripe."

"Just because the King's Shadow set the price at one silver doesn't mean I can't add to that if I want. Once you have compiled a list of days Ghost will need to return, send it to my apartment here in town."

I walked over to Mr. Baker and passed him his two coins. He reluctantly shook my hand.

"I'll be testing Mika on what he has learned at the King's Harvest Festival."

"I'll make sure his teacher starts him off with something sweet." I watched as the cougars and Mr. Baker left. Mika hugged Ghost in an attempt to comfort him as I walked over to Master Reginald and gave him the last gold coin. "This is for your time, fees, and patience in dealing with my unusual ideas today."

"Just how wealthy are you?" He asked.

"It is unwise to brag about one's wealth."

"Only someone with a great deal of wealth would have such an attitude. You may be interested to know that in a couple of weeks a traveling slave trader will be passing through. Once a year he brings a good number of exotic slaves, both adults and cubs, and buy's local slaves to sell in exotic locations. The thing is, for some reason, he desperately wants a shadow coin. For the last five years he has been begging me to discover which Lords have coins and what type of slave he would need to obtain in order to convince them to part with one."

"No slave, no matter how exotic is worth that much."

"I've told him as much. He then told me if I could find someone willing to make a deal he would go as far as the ends of the world, and bring back a hundred slaves."

"A hundred exotic slaves? I could see how that might tempt some."

"Not when they only have a single shadow in their possession. As far as I knew only the King and the Shadow himself had more than a single coin. Of course the Shadow is not allowed to own slaves and the King banned my friend from ever entering the castle again after last year's sales pitch."

"And I stupidly admitted to having more than one such coin."

"Yes, you did and you're likely the only one who does. So maybe, when he arrives, you could look at his selection? If nothing else you might be able to convince him that he doesn't have a prayer of getting his hands on a shadow coin."

"I suppose there wouldn't be any harm in looking. Send a message when your friend arrives. Mika, Ghost, come on. It's time for us to go."