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Virtually Real Chapter 61: Escape is No Escape.

Prowl-Ar Leader of the Shadow Runners can shift into black tiger, bull, and wolf forms

Reaper: The black fox incarnation of Death. Bonded to Prowl-Ar and using him as his avatar in the physical world.

Jordan/Wolf: Ship’s doctor can shift into wolf, werewolf, and tiger forms

Kyle: Created from Red XIII’s game character he can shift into his original form, eastern dragon, lion, wolf and werewolf forms.

Shock: reporter turned team diplomat can shift into a fox and a wolf.

Rider: Team therapist can shift into a sabretooth and a wolf.

Dash: Synth care taker of the teams children

Mahan: Ship’s AI computer

D’Artagnan: Wolf’s nephew and newest adoptee into the growing family after his parents dumped him out at Furry Embassy.

Luca: Scientist and drone expert. Perpetually horny Sergal.

Ampre: Luca’s Synth assistant. Identifies as female.

Rin: Prowl-Ar’s adopted daughter lynx shifter.

Ryu: Rin’s boyfriend human but seriously considering becoming an Eastern Dragon

Chiyo: Ryo’s mother.

After breakfast we spent the morning setting up a VR game for D'Artagnan. He wanted to play Pokémon in VR setting out on the original quest.

It wasn't a difficult setup since I'd already converted all of the games. I'd started a game with Kyle, but he quickly decided monster collection wasn't something he enjoyed. He'd only spent a day in game and then only for me. I tried again with Kyle as a NPC so that I could play with Jordan but the game wasn't the same. Jordan and I should have just started a new game. Still it was fun helping D'Artagnan get set up for his own adventure.

Then we moved back into our House game. With it being the five of us again we jumped the game forward to the next story event. The events we skipped over was the walk to the coast, booking passage on a trade ship and then Island hopping.

At Lemnos we dropped onto the docks and started helping the Captain unload the cargo. We would need to book passage on another ship for the leg around the coast on our way to Egypt.

"Listen, I'm not much help here so I'm going to go look around town, maybe even explore the island a little. The Captain said we'd be here three days before another ship would be available. Once you find a place to stay let me know." Shock said, as he tapped his temple letting us know to contact him telepathically and then took off.

"Our fox is up to something." Kyle said, as he passed me carrying an amphora. "I think you should go after him."

"Computer, do I have access to shadow step ability?"

"All character abilities are available."

I nodded to Kyle and shadow stepped into observer mode. It was easy to catch up with Shock at that point. He'd already left town and had climbed halfway up the volcano before disappearing into a cave. I quickly followed but found myself in a maze of tunnels, even though shadow step should have let me bypass them. I clenched my teeth, it meant Dare was meeting with a god. After all the trouble we’d already gone through why would he purposely go looking for more? After a few minutes of searching the maze seemed to turn into a tunnel directly to a massive forge.

"So, you're asking me, the armorer of the gods, to make it so your artificial lizard man can change into a lizard?"

"I guess that is a simplistic way of explaining it." Shock replied.

"Are you calling me simple?" Hephaistos yelled.

"Of course not. I'm here because I honestly believe you are the only god that can give my future mate the ability to change forms with a thought and be able to mind speak with me." Shock said, obviously trying to flatter the god.

"And I only have three days to accomplish this impossible task?"

"Yes, we sail with the evening tide in three days."

"Return then. Either I'll have something for you or I won't. Either way I will expect payment."

"Payment?" Shock asked.

"Of course, everything has a price. I suggest you come up with something good. Now go."

Shock turned and headed down the tunnel looking really dejected. As I started to follow I found the way blocked.

"So, is what he is asking for impossible in your world? I admit I don't get out much." The God asked.

I stepped out of the shadows. "The parts to allow Dash to shift should be easy enough to build, though I'll likely need help from an expert."

"The one known as The Horny One? Bacchus keeps complaining your friend is getting more action than he is; and he's the god of such things. It's rather funny considering Luca doesn't need to coerce his partners with strong drink. His followers really are attracted to him. So, what about the mind speak?"

“Well the easy way would be to give him a shard of the telegem of life but that is impossible, fortunately." I said without thinking.

"Why do you say that?"

"Because Dash would be my mate as well, and Genesis hates Reaper." Why couldn’t I just shut up?

"Who is Reaper?" Hephaistos asked.

"I am the embodiment of death. Not a god with dominion over the dead, but the primal force itself." Reaper replied.

Hephaistos nodded a greeting to Reaper. "And is there another way?" He asked.

“There is, but it is inefficient and doesn't work the way they want. I can implant nanites that will allow Dash to send messages to Shock, but Shock will have to speak out loud to communicate back."

"If there is only three days I suggest you go and start working on those transformation parts. I'll see if I can forge something that will allow for mental communication between man and machine."

I bowed and headed out the now open tunnel. About halfway to the exit the path ended I turned back thinking the God decided he wanted me for something else, only to discover that way was blocked as well. Suddenly I was shoved against a wall. I couldn’t see her but I could feel her chest pressed against me.

"Please help. I need to escape this prison. I'll make it worth your trouble." She said, as she groped me.

I shoved her away. No way was I going to help her now. "You're asking the wrong man."

She was back against me, grinding and whispering. "You will help me, no man can refuse the goddess of love."

I rolled my eyes. "Slut, I’m not like other men."

"Oh please, the world must be a horribly dreadful place without love."

"You mean like Troy? No, I think you should be loyal to your husband."

"I'm not powerless, you know. I can move about this cursed island. If you won't help me perhaps one of your companions will."

Wolf, Kyle, Rider, and Shock appeared. She was subtle, I hadn't noticed the shift to the mental plain. She waved Shock's image away. "Not this one it’s defective. Blessed with a superior gender and then becoming just another stupid male. Not worth my time. These two have potential." She rubbed up against Kyle's image. “They know what it is to love both genders."

Strangely she skipped over Jordan. Now I was seething. She had no right to insult Jordan and Shock, or expect her powers to work on Kyle or Rider. She was grinding against me again. No! Something was wrong; she was still grinding against Rider but I could feel-"

"Ah just like all men, a little physical stimulation and you're all ready for action." She seemed to whisper in my ear while the image in my mind just grinned at me. Suddenly she was next to me, no I was prone and she was straddling me. I couldn’t move, well anything but my hips and that was one part I didn't want to move.

"That's it, just enjoy it. Once you reach completion you will be completely under my control. Then you'll help me escape this realm just like you did for that mangy wolf god."

I wanted to cry. No, I could feel that physically I was crying. Even though I had no control I felt I was betraying my mates.

"That's enough of that, you whore." Aphrodite screamed as Jordan ripped her off me. "Sorry, it took so long, my Love, I had to gain control of myself when she summoned me."

“You think this makes any difference? I already have that one. I admit his will was stronger than I expected, but he is mine now, do you really think I can't take control of you as well? Just look at him in such a state of bliss just from penetrating my-"

Jordan shifted and lashed out, not in his wolf or werewolf forms, but in his tiger form. A set of claw marks ran across Aphrodite’s face and a second set ran across her breasts. "Never insult my mates again. Oh, and those marks will manifest no matter what form you take. You'd better keep you husband happy because you'll never again be considered the most beautiful goddess."

"You! You'll pay for this for all eternity I curse-"

"You will be silent, ugly one." A woman dressed in brown robes barely concealing white armor appeared.

"Sorry I couldn't help sooner, but not a lot I can do against a love goddess. It wasn't easy; but I found help." Reaper said, beside me.

"I don't know who you are but you are no threat to me." Aphrodite sneered.

"I am Magdalene, god of the primal energy formed from all emotion. My dominion is over everything from the flower turning to face the sun to the greatest of gods. If they feel anything then they must show me respect. The Shadow Runners, regardless of membership, universe, or reality are all under my protection. What is the goddess of love to a God that is the embodiment of the emotions of all living things? Even Reaper, the embodiment of death knows better than to anger me."

"Look! Look what that animal did to my face and breasts!" Aphrodite screamed.

Magdalene looked up and down her marred body. “An improvement."

"Fine you've saved the rest but I've already taken that one. He is mine and there is nothing-".

I heard a scream, but it might have been my own as white light and noise flooded the mental realm. I was in the cave again. "Computer, shut down game." I stammered, weakly.

Wolf was at my side in an instant propping me up. I flinched away from him. How could he, any of them, still care about me?"

"What's going on? I was just getting back from my run." Shock asked in confusion.

"Shock, not now. Everyone the game is paused, I'm taking the Captain to the infirmary-" Wolf started.

"No! I need to be somewhere." I yelled, getting unsteadily to my feet.

"Where-" Kyle started to ask.

"Anywhere but here. I'll be back I promise." Not that my word meant anything anymore. I wasn't even sure myself. Not that they would be able to tell with Magdalene flooding all mental and emotional connections with white noise. I started walking and didn't stop until I reached the hanger bay. It took nearly two hours I noticed, as I powered up the shuttle that was already set for launch. Avoiding the lifts meant long travel times on a ship as large as the Runner. No one stopped me as I left. Even Mahan was quiet. I'd just go and set up the work for the parts that Shock wanted to give Dash. Then . . . then maybe I'd just not set a destination when I jumped again. They had each other now and they would be better off without me. I came out of altered space and requested landing clearance from the Haro Colony. Just this last stop to help Shock and Dash, they deserved happiness after all.

***

I steeled myself and entered Luca's reception area. Ampre was at the desk. I was surprised Luca's guards weren't at their station. Maybe Luca had tired of them?

"Good morning, Lord Nightiger, what can I do for you this afternoon?"

“I need to speak with Luca about creating new synth modules."

"Uh, Luca is rather busy right now interviewing interns."

I sighed, "Well, let him know I'm here and I need genius Luca, not the sex obsessed sergal."

Ampre laughed, “You know he's talented enough to be both at once, right”

“Listen, I really don't care what he is up to with his interns, just let him know I just had a very bad experience, that I'm not going to talk about, and if he tries anything people are going to wonder why he isn't capable of having sex anymore." I growled.

"Like that could happen." Ampre scoffed.

"It could if I disposed of his body and replaced him with an impotent duplicate."

Ampre looked shocked, but before she could answer the door to the lab opened and Luca's barely dressed guards exited. One carried two young men over his brawny shoulders and the other cradled a woman.

"Three more off the list, Ampy. God, I wish I had the boss’s stamina."

“The forth one is still going. Either he really wants the internship or he really wants to please the Boss. Have three more candidates sent in as soon as possible. Oh! Hello Lord Nightiger, Don't mind us we're just assisting these three back to their quarters." The one cradling the woman said as they both quickly left.

"Great, about what you were saying, if it comes to that I've heard and seen nothing. How does he expect me to find three more candidates with the qualifications he requires? I only have two more, and they barely make the cut."

"I'll see what I can do." I replied, as I pushed through the door into the lab. Luca was sitting on a stool. He had a full VR headset and gloves on and appeared to be manipulating something incredibly delicate. The only other thing he was wearing was a lab coat and he was drooling precum on the head of a young man busily licking his right foot.

"Oh good, those last three weren't up to the task and left a mess. Get down and start working on my left foot while I work. I'll give you more instructions as you progress." Luca said, without even bothering to see who had entered.

I grimaced and adjusted my voice mask an octave deeper. "I'm here to follow up on multiple workplace violations."

"Listen, the add clearly states that the position is under me and regular servicing is required." He reached up to move the helmet. I shoved him to his feet and bent him over the closest table, making sure not to touch him more than necessary.

"I didn't say I was here in an official capacity. I'm here because you're not playing fair. I've been retained to change that."

"What!" he yelled angrily. "Guards!"

"They're busy with your last conquests." I was impressed with the young man's resolve. It was obvious he recognized me, because instead of trying to stop me he started nuzzling Luca's balls.

"Ampre!"

I backed off. "Luca you shouldn't just expect everyone who enters to bottom for you. Now, get some clothes on I need your help in constructing some new modules for Dash. Oh, and right now, I don't want to think about any form of sex." The young, intern I guess, whimpered and looked upset with my order. I rolled my eyes, "Fine, you two can keep doing what you were doing, but keep yourselves concealed under the work bench."

"What have you broken now? You know synth's are individuals and don't have extended warrantees? Or are you unsatisfied with the new penis module he designed? I have to admit I find that one really disturbing. The thought of being drained without orgasming, definitely not my thing."

"It's more pleasurable than you might imagine."

"Dirty tiger, turning down a specimen like me, but letting your servant have his way with you."

"I'm not sure what you mean. I'm here on a mission to upgrade Dash with components, which he wants. Shock went to a God hoping to get them made, but I have an idea you, with your superior knowledge of Synth construction, will prove the better choice."

Luca frowned, picked up a pad and swiped it sending a download to my headset. "This is a complete catalogue of all the current modules. Go through it and make sure what you want doesn't already exist. While you do that I'm going to continue my current project and interview process." He turned away from me toward the door where another young man and a trans-woman were undressing. "Only two of you? Oh well, at least you're getting ready. Once you finish get to work cleaning my feet. The last three were too exhausted to finish. And you," Luca looked down and smiled, "Keep that up, I thing you deserve a reward for making it this long."

I pulled up the catalogue, and turned away so that I didn't have to watch. It wasn't long before I activated the noise canceling feature on the headset as well. It was obvious what Luca meant by rewards from the rhythmic slapping of flesh. I blushed as I found the first half of the synth module catalogue was devoted to sex organs. I skipped over the section entirely: I jumped as I felt hands on my shoulders. Damn, and after I'd just told Luca off for not paying attention. They started to work at my knotted muscles. God this intern was good. I was almost tempted to let them continue. "You've got the wrong guy. I'm not the one you want."

"You are definitely the one I want. I wouldn't let the Sergal touch me if he was the last male in existence."

"Shock?" I asked in surprise.

He giggled. "Yeah, I'm wearing a mask so Luca doesn't know it's me. Listen, Jordan is worried about you, and honestly so am I. You know I've been through the same trauma. You can't bottle it up. I know you probably feel hurt and that you don't deserve to be loved. That's not true. We do love you and we would never leave you."

"But I-"

"You were raped. That isn't your fault. Only the one who did it is to blame. Trust me, right now Wolf and Mahan are busy making sure every depiction of that whore displays her new look. Soon the world will think of her as the fallen goddess of love who was scared by the gods for her lack of self-control."

"She deserves worse." I muttered.

"I agree with you there. And I suspect she would be suffering worse if Wolf could get his claws on her again. Whatever you did made a mess of our mental and soul links."

"I didn't do it that was Magdalene."

"Who?"

"The Kah Har god of emotion."

"That's the white gem, if I remember your old story correctly. The one given to your character's mate."

"That's right. I'm surprised you remember."

"I told you I've always loved your stories. I read them so often that I probably know them better than you." Shock stopped massaging my shoulders, spun me around and straddled me. "So will Wolf be getting that gem?"

"God, I hope not. Nothing against him but I'd rather not have the Kah Har actively meddling in reality."

"Yeah I can see where that would be a problem." He said, as he started to gyrate on my lap.

"Shock, now isn't-"

"Ooo, kitty found a playmate. Bad kitty, what if I tell your mates?" Luca asked.

"Oh, I'll rip your dick off and stuff it up your ass. It isn't really bottoming if it's yours right?" Shock growled.

"I know that voice. Both of you get the hell out of my lab. Prowl-Ar, after you've checked the catalogue, if you need my help you can return. But my lab is off limits to your . . ." Luca paused for a moment. "Shock is not welcome here."

"Fine by me, I need some time to help my mate work through the trauma of being raped." Shock said.

"I would never." Luca said, overly insulted.

"Did I suggest it was you?" Shock asked.

"Who was it? I'd like to have a little meeting with them." Luca had shifted to Sergal form and was barely containing a growl.

"Beyond our reach, and as you know that's saying something."

"I don't care. The person needs to be punished."

"She was, not nearly enough, but she was." I muttered pulling Shock toward the door. I really didn't want to be here. I didn't want to be thinking about what happened. And I definitely didn't want to deal with the feelings that Luca's anger was generating. Feelings of guilt that I hadn't realized that he really cared about me. Not for sexual reasons, well not just sexual reasons, or because of what others thought of me but as a true friend.

***

"Shock, I don't-"

"I know. It will be a while before you can consider being intimate with us again. That back there really was just a massage, and a way to irritate Luca."

"Are you still angry at him?" I asked.

"No, it's just- I don't know. I guess whatever attracts so many people to him has the opposite effect on me."

I thought about it for a moment. "I'm not sure, but I think it is the same with Jordan. He is just more diplomatic than you are."

"Maybe."

"So, you followed me here? How did you figure out where I was going?"

Shock laughed, "Yes and no. I hid in the shuttle before you got there. The chameleon cloaks are really effective. I was sure you'd notice me immediately. Luckily you didn't."

I bit my lip and tasted blood. If I'd jumped without a destination . . .

"You would have murdered your mate as well. Besides, do you really think I would allow you to kill yourself? You know I've stopped you in the past."

"Reaper? How?"

"Maggie is powerful but she can't block me from communicating with you now that you are wearing my gem. It makes it harder on me and I’m going to need to go dormant again now, but I’m still keeping an eye on you. Just follow Shock's lead. He knows what he's doing."

"So, where are you dragging me?" I asked Shock.

"Into town. I thought you should really see the community you've built here."

The lift door opened onto what could only be described as a small town. The tallest building was five levels and connected to the ceiling of the area. The center of the street was smooth and electric bikes, scooters, and small transports whizzed by. The sidewalks were cobblestone or at least looked like it. Between every fifth structure was a park and path that led to a parallel street and every two block was a road for vehicle crossover.

"Huh, I'd heard about the colony towns, but this is amazing." Shock said looking around.

"I sort of designed it around the concept of a town in an anime."

"Really? What one?"

"Macross, human refugees have to rebuild their community in a giant alien spaceship."

"I think I've seen that one; it has the transforming space jets and giant purple aliens, right?"

"That's right. I set up the towns so that they would feel open rather than being just a collection of rooms. I mean, it doesn't bother me on the Runner, but here I wanted everyone to feel a sense of freedom and community."

An alert ran across my headset as a tone sounded through the town.

"Uh, Tiger, rain on a space colony? Isn't that a waste of water?"

I laughed, "It isn't really water. It is as close as we could get it though."

Shock glared at me, "We?"

"Let me explain. It is actually nanites. The first type is programmed to remove pollutants from the air and surfaces. It has absolutely no impact on biological matter. The second is designed to remove pathogens. That one could be dangerous so it is single use only and then dematerialized and replaced. It's why it only rains once a week. The third nanite delivers the path-OWO-gen."

"The what?" Shock asked in confusion.

"It's a term from the deep past. It's basically a retro-virus that Jordan created to turn everyone into shifters."

"I thought you said that was a bad thing." Shock looked around as if he expected one of the individuals scurrying for cover might shift and attack us.

"Don't worry it needs two components to become active the activator-"

"Like you used on Rin when the Game glitched and we had to fight the giant spiders?"

I nodded, "And the second component is the species tag. Wouldn't want a cat girl forced to change into a dog. Basically it takes the evolver out of the equations for creating furrys." We stopped under the awning of a small cafe and sat on the bench as the "rain" started to fall.

I jumped as a portly lady stuck her head out the door. "Why don't you boys come in? The rain lasts about an hour and the chairs are more comfortable."

"No thanks we wouldn't want to take up room from paying customers." Shock insisted.

She laughed, "You two really are new here, please come in, there are no customers right now and we don't have currency on the station."

"Then why work in a shop?" Shock asked, as we stood up.

"I always wanted a small shop where people would feel comfortable to come in, relax, and maybe share their stories."

I glanced at the door as we entered, an old habit picked up from needing to know if the location was a safe place. A small lesbian pride flag was super-imposed with a fleur-de-lese. That was a new one to me, French Lesbian Pride, maybe? I quickly glanced at the next shop. It had a pansexual flag with Captain America's shield and a second bisexual flag with a maple leaf. It took a moment to realize everyone was displaying the shop owner's sexuality and original nationality. I quickly followed Shock inside, feeling just a little pride at what I'd accomplished with the Colony.

"Can I get you anything? Tea, coffee, fresh milk? We just got our first shipment from the farms this morning."

"I'll try the milk." If the colony had set up a working dairy I wouldn't have to sneak off to Earth anymore. Sure the matter generator could make milk and it was fine to cook with, but by itself it just didn't taste right.

"You kittens and your milk." Shock laughed.

"Oh, so you're a cat furry, then?" The proprietor asked.

"Sort of, I'm a tiger furry but my little fox here likes to tease me."

"A fox you say? So will that be a fresh egg on milk toast for you?"

I laughed, even in his human form Shock had to wipe away a little drool. "I think his answer is yes. Though, if you don't mind, I'd love to hear your story for immigrating here. As I understand it France is one of the most tolerant countries."

"Okay, just let me get your milk and put in your cute fox's order." She quickly went into the back.

Shock laughed, "Just can't help getting involved can you. Be careful, curiosity killed the cat you know?"

The owner was back before I could answer.

"Here is your milk cutie." She sat and sighed. "You're right, France is more tolerant than other places, at least in the metropolitan areas. In the smaller towns too if you're lucky. My wife and I weren't so lucky. We opened a shop a lot like this one and business wasn't the best but we were doing alright. Then last Jordan's Day it was firebombed. We lived in a small apartment above the shop and barely made it out alive, but not completely intact."

"What Marie is trying not to say is that I was trapped and the only way to get me out in time was for the fire brigade to amputate my leg." The woman was thin and using a cane in one hand and had Shock's order in the other. She placed it on the table and sat down next to Marie.

"Darling, you should have called me to get that." Marie said, kissing her on the cheek.

"I'm still capable of bringing out a single plate. Now stop being rude."

I glanced at Shock and he gave an imperceptible nod. We wouldn't let them know we understood French.

"I hope you don't mind my rudeness, but I can't help noticing you're using an old prosthetic, I'd think a place like this would have something a little more, futuristic?"

She laughed.

"You're right, of course, but Dana doesn't want to go through the trouble and pain of breaking in a new prosthetic only to have to do so again."

"I'm on the waiting list for one of Master Luca's new projects. He's working on creating an interface that will allow synth and biological tissues to interact together. Once completed and attached it will look and feel just like my original leg."

So that was the big secret project Luca was trying to keep secret. Shock looked thoughtful but without access to our bonds I couldn't tell what he was feeling or thinking.

"So, we immigrated to the colony to start a new life, one where we wouldn't have to worry about being attacked." Dana said finishing the story.

As if on cue the door jingled and a kid entered. "Well, well, well, it looks like Froggy and her gimp found some new friends." He flopped down at a table. “Get me some tea, and not that generated stuff, the good stuff you import from downside."

"Get out! You're not allowed in here and you know it." Dana yelled.

Maria restrained her as two men dressed as police officers entered. "Sahim, you've been warned." One of the cops stated.

"Oh boo hoo, I guess you'd better arrest me. I'm sure the Bull will be really happy about that. Why don't you both go for a walk out an airlock?"

I stood up and grabbed the back of the kid's faux leather jacket. “First you're going to apologize to these nice ladies and then you are going to accompany these nice officers."

"Or what?" He sneered.

"I'll pull down your pants and spank your butt-"

"Oh you're one of those types of perverts."

"And then I'll eject you out an airlock." I finished.

"Sir, we can't let you-"

I rubbed my eyes with my free hand turning of the contacts concealing my feline eyes and glared at the officers. Both took a step back and I rubbed my eyes again before anyone else could notice. I doubled the kid over a table, pulled his pants down, and gave his exposed butt a swift slap. I heard several gasps.

"You think that hurts?" The kid laughed.

The second spank hit.

"My dad spanks harder."

The third.

"Oh yeah, that’s the stuff."

The seventh

"Dad's going to fire both of you and kill this bastard for this."

The tenth, he was crying now and his butt was glowing.

"You're going to pay for this, all of you!" He yelled.

"Are you going to apologize?" I asked.

"Never!"

"Well, can't say I didn't give you a chance. Let’s see if we can find an airlock nearby."

"Tiger?" Shock asked, and I winked at him.

"Do something! He's threatening to kill me!" The kid yelled looking at the officers.

"The chief is going to be pissed we lost track of the kid. I hope he isn't stupid enough to play in the airlocks." The first guard said refusing to look at the kid.

"That would be a shame, just think of the paperwork." The second replied.

"Yeah, but it would be a lot easier in the future if that trouble maker did do something stupid like that."

"I'm sorry! Dana, Maria, I'm sorry for the way I acted, please don't let this psycho kill me!" The kid yelled.

I pushed him toward the officers. "I think he's going to be much more cooperative now."

"Um, Sir, I think you'd better come with us as well."

I nodded, "Wait outside, while I explain a couple of things to our hosts."

They nodded and exited.

"Who are you?" Dana asked looking at the officers waiting outside.

I smiled, "Nobody, really but I suppose we should have introduced ourselves. I am Prowl-Ar and this is my mate Shock."

"Lord Prowl-Ar?" Maria asked looking shell shocked.

I smiled, "Please, it's just Prowl-Ar among friends. If you don't mind, I'd like to visit again, maybe next time Jordan starts to feel a little home sick."

"The Jordan?" Dana asked, dropping her cane.

"Shock, do I know any other Jordan's?"

"How should I know? You're so old, as far as I know you could have been friends with the Jordan the country and river are named after." He joked.

"Okay, you win that one. I'm nowhere near that old." I bowed and then head for the door.

"Mas- Prowl-Ar, we'll look forward to seeing you again." Dana said.

As the bell on the door tinkled I realized if I went through with my plan. I'd just lied to two wonderful individuals. I sighed and shook my head what was one more lie.

***

We sat outside the security chief’s office as Sahim yelled about his treatment, and then the chief yelled at the officers for not stopping me, then again for refusing to answer his questions. He finally ordered them to take Sahim to a holding cell while he questioned us leading to Sahim screaming about how unfair his dad was being. As he was led out he acted like he was going to spit at me, but one of the officers slapped his hand over the kid’s mouth.

"Okay, send the other two in." The Chief yelled.

From the sound of his voice and his nickname of "Bull" I expected someone to rival myself in size. That was far from reality. The chief was five foot four and that was being generous. Obviously Sahim got his lanky build from his mother. There were two chairs off to the sides and I pulled one in front of the desk, Shock chose to sit off to the side, likely to avoid the line of fire.

"Listen, I'm not going to argue that the boy probably deserved to be punished, but doing what you did in a public area can't be overlooked. I can't have civilians handing out punishments like that, it leads to chaos. On top of that you threatened to kill him."

"Let me just correct that insinuation."

"I know, I know you wouldn't-"

"Oh, he very much would have gone out the airlock if he hadn't apologized. I'd just like to correct the assumption that it was a threat."

Shock groaned and covered his face. The chief on the other hand sat with his mouth hanging open looking as if he couldn't believe what I just said. "Who do you think you are?"

"He's probably the only person that could follow through and walk away with no repercussions. However I'd like to point out I doubt it would have come to that. Your son would have broken long before being ejected." Shock interrupted.

"I rolled my eyes, dropped the mask and shifted to anthro-tiger form."

"Gods! Please, don't send us back to Earth, Lord Nightiger!" Chief Bull yelled as his chair toppled over backwards.

"Tell him your story and I'm sure he'll be sympathetic." A voice echoed through the room.

"That isn't Haro." The Chief said, as I helped him to his feet.

"Yeah, that's my own little annoyance. Mahan, butt out."

"As the one who cleared the chief's family for immigration I insist you hear it before making any hasty decisions."

I shook my head and returned to my seat. "Well, let's hear it."

"You're going to follow his orders?" Chief Bull asked, in surprise.

"Not always, but it does make life a lot easier and much less annoying if I do consider his suggestions."

Shock wasn't able to contain a giggle.

The chief sighed. “I've always been a police officer, it's all I've ever wanted to do. My life was set. I had the perfect career, my parents had arranged a suitable marriage, and then the most beautiful woman walked into my life." The chief smiled dreamily. “She was perfect. We enjoyed the same things, seemed to understand each other without words. When I asked her to marry me she acted like her world had fallen apart. She confessed to being a trans-woman. As a straight man I'm not sure what she expected me to do. For an instant I wasn't sure either. I'm sure she didn't expect me to ask her again; if she could find it in her heart to love a man like me. In that instant of hesitation I realized I didn't care what she had under her sari I loved her and I couldn't imagine living without her."

"You are a stronger man than you realize and she is blessed to have you." Shock interrupted.

"I only wish that were true." Chief Bull replied. "We never told my parents the truth. Hers had disowned her long before we met. To everyone that knew us we were the typical couple." He smiled, "Jasmin, I know so don't roll your eyes she chose that name, learned of a way we could have a child. It was ultra-secret and against the law, but if other normal couples could have kids using a surrogate why couldn't we? Better yet the clinic had a way where our child would be made from both of us rather than an anonymous donor."

I smiled realizing it was one of the clinics Mahan ran as a side venture.

"Sahim was such a good baby and even the early years that most parents dread were mild. He didn’t start acting like a miscreant until we had to seek refuge here."

It was strange but I could tell the Chief was at the edge of crying. "Two months ago, it was a typical Tuesday night. I was getting off shift, we lived only a couple of blocks from the station and Jasmin liked to come and walk home with me. I heard screaming and instinctively ran toward it. Four men were stoning a woman calling her . . . I'd rather not repeat what they were saying. I ordered them to stop. They just laughed and told me to mind my own business or join then in stoning the deviant." Now he did break down and started to cry. “They'd done so much damage I didn't even realize it was Jasmin until I recognized her sari. It had been a gift and she only wore it on our anniversary. I shot all four of them, I don't know how many I killed, but I know one was dead because I had to push him off Jasmin to pick her up and half his head was gone. I carried her all the way to the clinic, the only one I knew that would treat her no questions asked. They immediately took Jasmin into emergency surgery. The receptionist gave me a card and told me to go home, pack only the things most important to me and then go immediately to the Furry Nation Embassy. She insisted Jasmin would join me as soon as she could be moved. I know I should have turned myself in, but Gods help me I did what the receptionist told me. I went home and packed. I made Sahim pack as well and then we went to the embassy. We were on a shuttle to the colony within ten minutes. On the way I was forced to tell Sahim everything. Since then he's refused to see his mother and he only speaks to me when he needs to get out of trouble."

Shock stood up, "Give me ten minutes with the little shit."

"Shock." I said, pitching his name as a warming.

“I swear not to put a claw on him. The guards can even stay in the room. I just want to talk to him."

A strong woman’s voice boomed through the small station. "Kumar, my strong bull, your shift ended half an hour ago. I don't care if the whole colony is descending into chaos, you have officers trained to take over in your absence.” She entered the office as though she expected the chief to be alone, “Oh, hello and who might you be to detain my husband?"

I'd reflexively shifted back to human at the sound of her voice but seeing her made me growl.

"All four are dead. Two that night and the other two along with the rest of their gang within the week. I took the liberty of retrieving the cards from the police evidence room as well. The Grim might be gone but he will still be punishing the guilty, just as I have been for years. I just didn't realize there was also an actual Grim running around as well." Mahan communicated through my nanites.

I still felt the need to kill. Jasmin was in a powered wheelchair. One leg was gone and the other was shriveled and obviously paralyzed. One arm was also non-functional and her face, I was reminded of Quasimodo from an old Hunchback of Notre Dame animation. She blushed and I could see past the damage and see the beauty Kumar had fallen in love with.

"I know I must look frightening."

"Actually, I was thinking how lucky your husband is to have a wife as beautiful as you."

"Please, I rather you tell the truth rather than curry favor with my husband by lying. I know how I look."

I turned to the Chief, "Tell me, would you love your wife any differently if she was a woman instead of a trans-woman?"

"Kumar! What did you tell this man?"

The Chief looked at his wife and then at me. "I love her. Nothing will ever change that."

"Is there . . . Do you have a . . ." Shock let the question hang and I nodded. "I'll just go have that conversation now. Don't worry," Shock paused and smirked at me, "I'll be diplomatic."

"Chief, I'm going to need to have your wife accompany me for a little while. I hope we will be back by dinner." I knelt down in front of her chair. "Jasmin, if you would be willing to accompany a disreputable old man like me, I believe I can help you show everyone the beautiful woman your husband sees every time he looks at you."

"Who are you?" She asked again.

I sighed, "I seem to be hearing that a lot today. I told you just a relic from another time that the people of this nation, obviously against their better judgement, keep electing to be ruler no matter what I do to convince them I'm not fit for the job."

"You mean you're-"

"Lord Nightiger, at you service, my lady. I'm going to use my medical technology to give back what has been stolen from you and if it is your wish make your outside match who you are inside.”

Several hours later I escorted Jasmin home. Shock was sitting on a bench in front of the building. "I figured you’d come here. My lady, I think you'll find your son is much more understanding of the choices you had to make."

"You're Shock Dafox! I can't believe I didn't recognize you."

Shock laughed, “Well that's the point of masking technology. If we walked around as ourselves just imagine the trouble we'd cause."

Jasmin laughed. "It seem trouble finds you no matter where you go or what you look like."

I felt a cold chill up my spine.

"That’s true.” Shock replied, but as long as it is directed at us and not the colonies it is a sacrifice we are willing to make. Now I suggest you go up and see your family."

"Won't you join us? It's the least we can do."

"I feel we must respectfully decline. I think your family needs to have some quality time without us getting in the way any more than we have." I insisted.

"Okay, just one last thing." She cupped my cheek with her palm. "You are needed and appreciated. I recognize the look in your eyes I've seen it often enough when I've looked in the mirror. We keep electing you as our leader because we believe in you. If you ordered it we might not follow you, but every last one of us would stand with you." I didn't get a chance to respond as she slid away and ran up the steps of her apartment. "Thank you my Lord for letting me enter my home properly rather than having to sneak in the back with the lift."

"You're welcome." Shock yelled as he stepped closer to me and wiped away the tear making its way down my cheek. "So is she?"

"She's who she felt most comfortable as and we'll leave it at that." I said, smiling.

"Tiger, I don't understand why you can't see what a wonderful person you really are." Shock said holding my hand.

"So what do you have planned next?" I asked to change the subject.

"You think I planned this? I figured I'd rescue you from that horny sergal and then take you back to the room you arranged for your stay. At that point I'd remind you how good sex was, even if it meant topping, to take your mind off what Wolf said happened. Then I remembered how I felt when I was raped and realized what you need is an understanding ear and time."

I ruffled Shock's hair. I wasn't yet up to talking about how I felt. "How about we get some dinner? I've heard rumors about an exceptional ramen shop in the Japanese district."

"You mean the one they say is haunted by a neko spirit?"

I laughed, "That’s the one. Never mind the fact there have been no fatalities on the colony yet."

Shock looked away.

"Shock, what haven't I been told?"

"There have been twenty three deaths. Two construction accidents, one space suit malfunction. Four health related due to age, and thirteen suicides. Before you get upset, remember it takes more than just a change of setting to reverse a lifetime of anxiety and depression. Rider and Mahan have set up support groups to help those that need it. The group promoting space walks around the outside of the colony have been shut down, and unfortunately accidents will happen no matter how much you try to prevent them."

"Shock, I know all of you worry about me and you're trying to make things easier. But, I'm the one in charge and I need to know these things. Keeping them from me just makes me feel like you don't trust me, or you think I'm not smart enough-"

"I get it. When we get back I'll talk to everyone about it. Now, how about we go get some haunted ramen?"

***

As I opened the door to Ghost Neko Ramen the traditional Japanese crosswalk tune played.

"Hello, and welcome, don't mind the spirits they're here for the ramen as well. Now what can I get or you?"

I smiled at the proprietor, he had to be in his forties or fifties. “Something light and mild that won't keep me up all night."

The man smiled, "I know just the thing. It's what I make for my own dinner. How about your son?"

Shock bust out laughing. "Something spicy the hotter the better."

"You'll have the same thing Daddy is having. I wouldn't want you thinking I’m spoiling you. Also we heard your shop was haunted and wouldn't mind hearing about it." I said, just to play with my fox.

He started making the ramen bowls as he talked. "I wish it was. Then I'd know my wife was here with me still."

"Tell us about her, it helps keep the memory alive." Shock insisted.

"As you might have guessed she was a neko cat girl. I know, you're thinking 'isn't that a hobby for the young', but surprisingly there is a subculture out there that has, had, a thing for elderly cat girls. I wasn't happy about what she was doing, but she always kept it clean and honestly she earned more in a day than I was able to earn in a week at my office job. When I was let go for a younger worker it was our only income, though my nephew helped support us. He was the one that pulled some strings to get us a place here on the colony. He lives in the same building as the Furry Embassy and he insisted that cat girls were a kind of furry."

"Some would disagree but I see the logic There is no set rule to say who qualifies as a furry and who doesn't." I shook my head, surprised at how developed they system for immigration had become in such a short time.

He set our bowls on the counter. “My wife was an excellent cook and wanted to set up a small cafe, my only cooking talent was making ramen."

I finished slurping up the noodles, "A very good talent at that." I'd never admit it but the old man's ramen was worlds better than Kyle's.

The door chimed and I glanced back only to do a double take.

"Hey old man, Mom and Rin are experimenting again. Something about a special order for synth parts. Anyway I'm on my own again and as we both know I can't cook to save my life." Ryu said, as he took a stool next to Shock.

"I'll get you your usual. I was just telling this nice gentleman and his son how I got here."

Ryu looked at us and then grinned. I knew our cover was blown I was using the same mask as the first time I’d met him. "Don't let me interrupt. I’m sure these two are absolutely fascinated."

"Oh well, not much left to tell. My wife was killed in a hit and run incident two days before we were supposed to leave. I know I should have given up my place to an actual furry, but at the same time I wanted to honor my wife’s last wishes and my nephew's hard work."

I watched him wipe a tear away as the seasoning he'd been adding to Ryu's ramen continued, the container floating in air for a moment before settling back onto the counter. I tried to contact Reaper but I couldn't feel him, in fact I couldn't feel my tiger either. "Ryu, can you do me a favor?" I asked.

“Oh! You know each other?” The owner asked.

“Yeah, you could say that.” Shock answered.

"Of course!" Ryu answered, enthusiastically.

"There's something I need to check out, can you two watch my body for a little bit?"

"Don't worry, we'll keep you safe. Just, while you're there check on my fox as well. I've been feeling off since our connection was blocked." Shock said, as I dropped into the mental plain.

The white noise was still overpowering but I pushed past it into the blackness. The dark storm was as treacherous and difficult to push through as the first time I attempted to see my soul. When I arrived I found my tiger, he was thin, weak and looking scared.

"You're here! Do something the connection has been cut and we're dying!"

I looked past my tiger to where my soulscape had changed again. I wasn't the lonely kid sitting against the wall. I was in the hills contemplating the gun in my hands. I was alone and I always would be. No! Shock was beside me I just had to reach out. I'd never attempted to move my physical body while here, but drastic times. I put all my effort into it. It wasn't much but it was enough Shock took my hand and was instantly pulled in. The soulscape changed and our souls were playing together. A moment later Kyle joined us. Everything had returned to normal. I opened my eyes and released the death grip I had on Shock's hand.

"Sorry, I couldn’t respond when you called. I realized your dark thoughts weren't entirely due to the event but because your soul connection had been cut. I had to convince Maggie to ease up enough to allow that connection at least. Now why did you call me this time?" Reaper asked.

"I know I'm not supposed to ask this, but are ghosts real?"

"Why are you asking?" Reaper asked looking around.

"I saw something that couldn't explain any other way."

"On rare occasions I'll make a deal with one who has just died. If their attachment is strong enough I allow them to remain with the one they love so that they can travel to whatever comes next, together. However, they are not to interact with the living in any way. It sounds if there is one here that has broken the contract . . ."

"What if the living individual believes or wants to believe that the ghost is still with them?"

"Most humans can't handle that kind of responsibility."

"My husband can. He doesn't know I'm here, but he believes I could be. He talks to me the way he did when I was alive. And yes I do little things around the shop. You see he's always been a little forgetful, like with the ramen seasoning, I just make sure he doesn't make a mess."

Reaper shook his head and suddenly I could see the owner of the voice. She was young, maybe early teens, and wearing a maid's outfit. Her gray ears perked up and she twitched her tail.

"You can see me can't you?"

"I'm allowing him, yes." Reaper responded.

"Oh! Don't think my husband is a pervert or anything, I'm actually a year older than he is. I just seemed to take my idealized form when I was killed."

I glanced around and everyone seemed frozen.

"We're still in the spiritual realm. This is something I'm only allowing you, as my bond partner, to see and hear."

"That is fine, but there is something that I'd like to ask. I know I don't have the right, but can you help the young man that killed me?" The Neko ghost asked.

"What?" Reaper and I both asked at the same time.

"It wasn't entirely his fault. His partner had been injured. No, that doesn’t really describe it. The man he loved had been stabbed in the stomach and he was rushing him to the hospital. For my part I was in a hurry to get home and was crossing the road against the light. He didn't even know he'd hit me until it was reported on the news. They even had video footage of the car. However none of it showed that he was the driver. Instead the incident was attributed the owner who later died at the hospital." The ghost mimicked wiping away a tear.

"How do you know all this?" Reaper asked.

"Oh, I speak with his guardian spirit. When they come in."

"So he is here on the colony?" I asked in surprise.

"Oh yes, his family insisted he come here and set up a temple. After what happened he chose to become a priest in order to atone. It's just . . . Why go to a temple and worship guardian spirits when you're already a furry? His temple failed, his family has rejected him and he is wracked with guilt. If it's possible, I'd just like you to assure him that I don't blame him for what happened."

"Reaper?"

"At this point I doubt telling you no would do any good. I hate dealing with guardian spirits. They often get in the way and make my job that much harder."

"So how do we find him?"

She laughed, “They come in every night at about this time to eat. He doesn't even know the irony that his favorite place to go is named in honor of the woman he killed."

I sat up and gasped.

"Well that took you longer than expected." Ryu said.

"How long?" I asked.

Shock giggled, "Two minutes. A short trip to repair our broken bond."

"Got you." Ryu laughed.

"Yeah? What the hell are you doing here? I remember putting you and your mom on the R2 colony." I said, glaring at Ryu.

Ryu laughed, "Did you really think she wouldn't immigrate to the Gundam themed colony? Besides with Rin and Mom both doing synth module contract work for Luca it just made it easier."

I groaned, "I was hoping that she wouldn't learn about Luca's reputation."

Ryu laughed so hard he nearly fell off his stool. "Luca's reputation is probably better known than yours."

The door song interrupted us and I looked back and gaped. Two young men, both looking extremely sad, a giant tiger and a tired Shiba Inu entered.

"See what I mean? I did not give that ghost permission to remain here but that Tiger spirit won't let him or his dog guardian move on." Reaper whispered.

If you'll excuse me I need to talk to these . . . this young man." I glanced at Shock, "Reaper business."

Shock nodded and immediately engaged Ryu and the shop owner in conversation.

I walked over and smiled, "Can I speak with you for a little while before you eat?"

The Tiger spirit moved between us. "Back off."

I doubt he expected me to hear him but the waves of animosity he was giving off would make a normal person back away. "Sit down, kitten." I ordered.

"You can see me? Wait, how dare you!"

I shifted and glared. I was right the spirit was larger than I was but even I could tell he was a young guardian. "I said sit down, now."

The kid scrambled to sit and I heard Shock laugh. "That's our captain always overdramatic." Of course he couldn't see what I was seeing.

“I really think you should do as he says. If he has the power to see us and give orders, despite the energy you’re putting off, means he must be spiritually powerful.” The Shiba said taking a seat next to the ghost boy.

“What do you mean? I don’t sense any spiritual presence from him.” The Tiger growled

“Just like everyone else since earlier today. I keep telling you something extremely powerful is at work.”

"Can you see me as well?" The ghost asked interrupting the two guardians.

I nodded.

"Please, tell this overbearing tiger to let me cross over. I love Shan, but remaining here like this is detrimental to him. He needs to move on and find closure. He's still young and so handsome that I'm sure he'll find someone that'll make him happy."

"No! Master, wants you so here you will remain. And though I do not approve, as long as he continues honoring your guardian spirit, your dog stays as well."

"Reaper, can you give Shan temporary sight so he can see what is going on here?" I asked.

"I really don't think that would be a good idea. First, as I said, humans don't handle seeing the dead all that well, second even though the ability to see ghosts will be temporary the ability to see and attract spirits, like this hair ball and the puppy, will be permanent. Finally there is another ghost here and I’m not sure-"

"Then I'd better make sure he can handle it." I said aloud, dropping the mask.

"Y-you're Lord Nightiger."

"Please, call me Prowl-Ar."

"Are you here to punish me?" Shan asked.

"Why would I do that?"

"Because I'm a murderer. I got the man I loved stabbed, ran over a woman trying to get him to the hospital, and then let him take the blame. I'm sure his angry spirit still haunts me."

I glared at the Tiger spirit. You’re a priest right?"

"Another failure. My family wanted to set up a shrine in Japan but when the opportunity to set it up here on a colony came along, I thought I could run from my problems. Of course the temple failed. I keep to the old rituals, but I know I don't have a guardian spirit. I don't deserve one."

The tiger spirit looked incredibly sad at that statement.

"What if I told you I wasn't yelling at you earlier, but at your guardian spirit?" I asked.

"You mean I really do have a guardian spirit?"

"If the massive scowling tiger I'm looking at is any indication, then yes. I can make it so that you can see him as well. However, if I do you'll always see him. You'll also see and attract any wayward spirits as well, though being on a space colony that might not be as great a problem as it would be on Earth."

"Yes please, I'd like to see him. Then I'd know I'm not alone."

"There's more. Because you haven't been able to come to terms with the loss of your boyfriend your guardian is holding his spirit and his guardian here against his will. Are you . . . do you . . ."

“That isn’t true. I’m here because he feels by giving tribute to my totem I am still protecting Danza. Which is true, but it has connected me to him as well.” The Shiba said.

"I think I understand what you're trying to ask. Yeah, this is a confrontation I need to face." Shan said sadly.

"On last thing there is a neko girl ghost here as well."

"Oh? So the rumors about this place are true then?"

"Seems that way. She'd like to speak with you as well."

"With me? Why?"

"Let's just take things one step at a time."

***

I returned to the counter giving Shan, Danza, and their guardians some privacy.

"I don't know what you told him, but that's the happiest I've ever seen him. He comes in here orders the same thing and leaves after. He's always alone and so sad. If I thought he'd be willing I'd have him work here. Hell I'd adopt him if I could." The owner said, looking at Shan. “Though the talking to himself is new.”

I looked at the owner. "Do you really mean that?"

"I said it didn't I?"

"What if I told you he's the one that killed your wife?"

"I . . . I’m not sure, still I forgave that kid once I knew what had happened. I mean he was dying from a stab wound and was rushing to the hospital. He died too so it is kind of hard to be mad at him. Besides My Neko wasn't in a crossing area when it happened."

I sighed. "I can't tell you how I know this, but your wife is still with you. She is here now watching over you."

"I'd like to believe that, but-"

"She made a deal with death to remain with you until it is your time. Oh, she wants you to know that doesn't mean hurrying it along. She wants you to live a long life full of experiences since she is always with you." I laughed, "She also wants me to tell you it wouldn’t hurt to clean the tops of the picture frames once in a while."

The owner set his glasses on the counter and wiped his eyes. “She really is here isn't she? She would always tell me to dust the picture frames because she couldn't reach them.”

“She also agrees that you should take Shan in, forgive him for what happened and give him a family. She can tell he is wracked with guilt, but she's sure you would make a wonderful father figure and perhaps save him from needlessly ending his life." I doubted he’d kill himself now that he could see his tiger guardian, but it was always a possibility.

"I thought it was the kid who died." The owner said, gazing thoughtfully at Shan.

"No, Shan was rushing his boyfriend to the hospital. I'm not sure of the whole story but he blames himself for both deaths. Oh and if you do take him in you should know that he is a former priest and has a tiger guardian spirit that I just gave him the ability to see."

"That explains the talking to himself. So if I take him in I'll have both my wife's ghost and a tiger spirit wandering around, that no one can see?" He looked thoughtful "Hmm, Ghost Neko and Tiger Guardian Ramen, I could work with that."

"Wait, you learn your wife's ghost really is haunting your ramen shop and the kid who killed her has been coming in every day. Now, knowing the truth you suddenly want to take him in and make him a partner?" Shock asked, while staring at the owner.

"To do otherwise would be to dishonor my wife. She believed if you can make someone's life better, even if they've wronged you. You should help them. Oh!"

I smirked, his wife had hugged him and obviously he felt it.

"Listen, the contract still stands. I'm going to let these little things slide but make sure it is only little things that people will laugh at and blame on their own imagination. To help the situation you can be seen and communicate with Shan's guardian spirit. He can relay any messages to Shan to give your husband." Reaper said, to the Neko. “You’re making me soft, you know that right?” He whispered only to me.

"Thank you, uh may I call you Reaper? It feels weird referring to you as Master Death." She said, smiling at Reaper.

"You might as well. It seems Prowl-Ar insists on telling everyone about me."

"Thank you Lord Reaper."

"There's one thing left. We need to introduce you to that tiger spirit.” He said, tiredly. I realized he must be working extra hard considering Magdalene’s noise.

I exited the shop a little later feeling completely drained. Shock remained behind to help work out the business details. I'd planned on just bunking in the shuttle but Ryu insisted his mother would skin him alive if he didn't insist we take the spare room.

"You did a good thing today." Ryu said quietly.

"Huh?"

"Rin says you have self-esteem issues and that you can't see when you've done something amazingly good. I just thought I should let you know that you did. You help two lost souls find a reason to keep going. No, not just that, you helped them find a reason to live again."

"Do you always listen to Rin?" I asked.

Ryu glanced up and down the street. "Always, even when she's talking tech and I can't understand a word she's saying, but don’t tell her I said that."

I laughed. "You're a good kid as well."

"Um, I know this is a bit soon, but if I were to, say, ask for you permission to propose to Rin, at some point in the future."

I stopped walking and stared at him.

"I- I'm sorry. I know it is way too soon and I shouldn't have said-"

I interrupted him by pulling him into a hug. "Listen, you might think it’s strange but I already consider you part of the family. Even if you and Rin don’t work out that isn’t going to change. So, you have my permission, when you two feel ready for that step, but I'm easy. Save your fear for Shock, he's the overly protective one. But I warn you, if you wait too long, Rin will ask first."

"So you don't mind that I'm just the son of a shop keeper?"

"Does Rin?"

"No."

"Then why should I? Like I said, you’re already family."

Ryu smiled and we continued down the street. When we arrived at Chiyo's model shop I smirked. Obviously some things never changed.

"Mom, just checking on you before heading up-"

"Well it's about time. Where have you been?" Chiyo yelled from the second floor.

"I went and had ramen, since you and Rin were busy. I brought a friend home. I told him he and his mate could use the spare room for a couple of days."

"You did what?" She yelled.

I smirked. "Actually, he said something about you skinning him alive if he didn't make the offer."

"Dad?" Rin's voice echoed from above.

"Oh, you two are still working? Sorry about that." Ryu yelled, as Rin came running down the steps and wrapped me in a big hug.

I hugged back and didn't let go.

"What happened?" She asked

"It's been a difficult day."

"No, it’s more than that. Rin, you and Ryu scamper on up to your residence of iniquity. I think this is something more suited to a parent than children." Chiyo said, as she came down and got a look at me.

"Mom, it's just the apartment above yours it's hardly-"

"Come on, we both know better than to argue with your mom when she uses that tone." Rin said, as she pulled Ryu to a door that I guessed led up to their apartment.

"You know-" I started.

"Don't start. I know your age, but sometimes you need to talk to a parent figure no matter your age. Now tell Momma Chiyo everything."

And so I did; everything from the rape to arriving at her shop. When I was done she walked out only to return a few minutes later. "Drink this and have at least two cookies."

I'm not sure I could have refused if I wanted to so I drank the hot chocolate and ate one of the snicker-doodles.

"I said two." She said glaring at me.

"Admittedly they are good, but I've just had a large bowl of ramen."

"This isn't a negotiation."

I took a second cookie and nibbled on it. Chiyo just sat and watched. Until Shock came in she directed him to the spare room saying she needed to talk with me alone for a while. I was surprised Shock just nodded and headed upstairs.

"There, now that you've had your cookies, what is wrong with you?"

"Huh?"

"You're raped and so upset you are considering killing yourself; however, instead of talking it out with your mates you come over here and meet with Luca. I'm guessing the special project he dumped on Rin and me is what you need done. Then, to help you relax you wander about the station suppressing your own problems by helping everyone else. From this point until the project is completed you're grounded. We're going to work on a bit of self-care as well. Now, before you go up to bed I'm telling you to go call your mates and tell them how you're really feeling. Especially Jordan, I'm not sure you realize it or not, but of all your mates he is the one that worries about you the most. Before you ask I can see it in his eyes. He has the same damn look, when he's watching you and thinks no one will notice, as Ryu has for your daughter. Now go make that call and then get some sleep."

"Yes Ma'am."

"One last thing, you make sure to hold your fox close tonight. Putting up with your selfless need to put others first likely wore him out."

I bit my lip and nodded. Shock really had been there for me today and all the time, without our soul bond. He had to be falling apart inside as much as I was but he didn’t mention it once focusing on my needs instead of his own until he knew I was traveling into the soul realm. Chiyo was right, I owed him. No, I owed all my mates.

“Don’t even think about hiding your problems away in order to focus only on the needs of your mates either.” Chiyo yelled down at me as she obviously reached the second floor.

***