FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Morning came, far too early for some young ones, and the bustle of the guests of honor getting ready. They didn't eat anything messy. Once they were ready to head to the car, it was six in the morning. They took it slow in the drive enjoying the sunrise. When they arrived at the Guild House, it was seven in the morning and the roads were beginning to get crowded.

Collector and Richard entered the Headquarters while Roger and Michelle unloaded his following slaves. They made themselves known at the desk and waited. The Lobby was empty. Silent to an eerie point. Naught a word was spoken until a page came and collected them.

When they entered the Council room, Collector noticed the extra cameras and seating on the floor outside of the 'shadow ring' the Council was known for. He then noticed the new pedestal seating under Councilman One's seat and smiled. He dared not approach it yet.

"This way, sir. The ready room is open for you. When the ceremony starts, you will be called. Take what time you need to freshen up. Try not to fall asleep." The lad bowed at the duo as he opened the dressing room.

"Thank you."

Collector watched as the lad barely waited for Richard to enter the room before shutting the door. He shook his head as the Fox checked his tail. He sighed and checked the cabinets for something to do. He found various grooming supplies, but nothing struck his fancy. He paced, not wanting to rest too much. It took Richard forcing him to the sofa before he relaxed and began to talk about his nerves. Richard shared his own nervousness then tried to make some sort of joke. It was so bad they both chuckled lightly.

Richard heard the crowd enter and the noise raise inside the Council room. A knock at the door shook them both. Richard answered the door and found Char'zi and Niah on the other side. He let them in and thanked them for showing up.

"Hush, little Mitalin, you sound like a pup being whipped." Niah chuckled at him.

"It's about to begin. You ready?"

"No, but who can truly be ready for a life change like this? The birth of my kids was less nerve racking than this."

"Not many. Straighten up that suit and loosen that tail. It won't take long before you take your seat up among the rest of us and be the face we need for change."

"Love."

"I know, Niah. We have to take our seats. Be ready for a page to come get you. Slaver." Char'zi smiled then left with Niah hanging onto his arm.

They didn't bother closing the door, choosing to listen to the ceremony start and letting the nerves burn as fast as they could. When the page came, the duo was glad to move. They followed the lad to the back of the Council room and was told to wait for their name to be called.

"Ladies and gentlemen. Today, we are here to give face to the Slaver's Guild and further place ourselves in the name of Galactic Peace. Crime haunts all worlds, and the Guild was formed to give criminals a chance to live even if it is a life of servitude. Prisons have been emptied and crime rates have dropped across the United Galactic Space. We now call upon the Slaver, Collector Manson, and his Second-in-Command, Richard, to come forward."

With a deep breath, they came in answering the call with a straight back. Applause sounded loudly, but even Richard ignored the roar as he focused on walking straight. They found the speaker being the Second of Councilman One.

"Collector, greet your people!" The human dressed in a white suit shook his hand.

Collector smiled and waved.

After a moment, the human quieted the crowd then faced the Council stands. "Councilmen and women, with your blessing I will proceed."

"Denied." The voice of Councilman roared out. "Councilman Seven will proceed with the induction."

Two shadows stood and a light flicked on highlighting them from behind. "Welcome one and all. Today a Slaver shall step into the Shadow and illuminate it. Today Lesser Councilman One-Five, also known as Collector Manson, will disappear and become Councilman Ten. With that said, Collector Manson..."

The hour-long speech and few pauses for Collector to swear himself to the Guild and People flew by and then Richard was called upon and was sworn in as well.

"People of the UGS, We of the Council of Guild Slavers present to you: Councilman Ten, Public Representative of the Guild and People!"

The applause and shouting of the crowd made Collector feel like blushing. He did not expect this type of welcoming. He allowed the people their time and quiet down naturally before speaking into the tiny microphone on the pedestal.

"I thank everyone. As many people know, I'm sure, I have made affordable food supplies for slaves and the colonies that cannot afford the commodities we love. Even though I have moved on, my farms will still supply the foods needed to keep all those who cannot afford the luxury well-fed. If anything, I will find a way to make more and supply more. Bless you all, I am certain I will be proud to serve the Guild and you." Collector smiled and waved again as the crowd roared once more.

The doors opened once more, and people started to file out leaving the Council behind. Once the cameras were shut down and the crew left, the Council spoke.

"Well done." The one lady spoke out. "You will do just fine as PR. But, as you know, there are a few pressing matters to attend to. Follow your mentor and his Second to proceed with the next few steps."

Char'zi and Niah joined him on the main level then escorted them out to a more sophisticated examination room than he had seen in the rest of the medical area of the House. He knew this is where the Council's personal doctor practiced.

"She will be in momentarily. Richard, you will be handed yours. The activator for your Master's locator and quantum link. This is why you rarely see the Council without the Seconds. We cannot start the encrypted hololink without the activator. Besides being data storage, it is also a key to several things in the Guild. Then, unlike the rest of us, you two will get an actual badge to flash about. You will be able to get things done that you weren't able to do before. Not to mention being able to talk directly with Government officials and go where we cannot. All I can say is good luck, you're going to need it from this point forward."

"Does this mean that we are to find out who is killing innocents and breaking treaties?"

"In a way. It is not on record such is said. Be careful and watch your tail." Char'zi patted the Iguana's back then left the room just as the doctor and nurse came in with a surgical tray full of equipment and a lightly glowing pink crystal.

"Richard, this is yours. Keep it on you at all times." The doctor handed him a small black box. "Many of the others turn it into a necklace. One actually had it implanted into his hand."

Richard nodded and took the box. He glanced inside and saw the crystal that was his.

"Alright, boss man, shirt off and lay back. I'll apply a topical anesthetic then this little gem will be placed under your sternum. Five minutes for most. The incision is less than half an inch so it shouldn't scar. Then I'll link it up to the Guild system."

Collector did as he was told and readied himself. Today he definitely could not call himself a slave. He was a Master of Man and Beast. He closed his eyes and waited for the pinch. He opened his eyes when the doctor said done. Two stitches on the left breast was all that was left of the procedure. He huffed and sat up slowly.

"Faster than I thought it would take, and I felt nothing."

"Good, then I did my job. Hold still while I link it up." She did a few things on her tablet scanned his chest where she placed the crystal and made a bit of small talk as the system did the rest. Once it was finished, she gathered things and helped him redress before moving on. "Remember those stitches will come out on their own. No tugging."

"I won't. It won't take long to heal up anyway. I have had worse than this heal up in a week."

"Still, I want to see you next week. You cannot travel without my say-so."

"Yes, ma'am," He saluted and chuckled. "Jokes aside, I understand."

"Mm-hmm." She left quickly.

"I like her." Richard chuckled once she left.

"Just because she actually saw you as you."

"So?" Richard helped his Master to his feet then slowly to the door. "I can't help it that she made me feel more than an animal."

Collector huffed but could not hide his smile. In the hallway, Char'zi and Niah waited. They guided the duo to a section neither had been in before. A collection of offices and one with the freshly painted number 10.

"Richard, only you have the key." Niah spoke up then guided the Fox to a panel that he had to tap the crystal against.

The door lock clicked, and the auto door slid open.

"This is your private office. You will have a public one set up soon at Valhan at the Guild House there. While here, you will be able to secure the room with a single switch that will give you total security in conversations of any type."

"I'm almost curious if there is a War room."

"No, we are not an army. Though we do have a court room you have personally been in several times now."

"Yeah... that I know well."

"Come, there is one more thing before we give you your official seat. Well, actually, this one if for Richard. Then you get your badges and seats." Char'zi looked as though he enjoyed this one and took them to another hall to a large room where there were slaves resting.

"Guild Slaves, attention! Masters entering!" One slave shouted into the room.

"Richard, these are House slaves... your House slaves. If you need something done within the Headquarters, you tell them. The only thing they cannot do is leave the grounds. Once you get the hang of things, you will be governing hundreds throughout the Guild all over the Galactic span. For now, remember KISS."

"Kiss?"

Char'zi nodded. "Yep. An old human acronym: Keep It Simple, Stupid. It stuck rather well over the centuries, so it is still being used. So, remember them. Jasper!"

"Present, Master Elder." A small Fox came running up and bowed. "I am Jasper. Elder slave and director of this flock."

"You look like one of those dessert Mitlan I read about on Valhan." Richard said as he squatted a little to look the shorter one in the eye.

"Humans call me a Fennec. Don't know what that is, but I take it. And, yes, I am from the Hymla Dessert on Valhan. I sold myself to get my family off planet then stayed once my debt was paid for."

"I am Richard, I guess I'm your new boss."

"Then greetings, sir, is there anything I can assist with?"

"At the moment, no. Still getting used to the whole boss of bosses thing."

Jasper chuckled. "I can understand that. I will help with that as well. Master Elders, do you need anything?"

"Actually, if you have any bottled water, that would be great." Collector smiled when Char'zi shook his head. Niah had disappeared, most likely to command her own House slaves a little.

Jasper snapped his claws, and a bottle of water was passed up from the other side of the room.

"Thank you, Jasper, and crew."

Char'zi then escorted them back to the Council room. The Council had adjourned, leaving the room to the camera crews to remove the equipment. Char'zi climbed the stairs behind the Council seating then directed them to a spot they both knew was vacant during the ceremony. Next to it and behind was another chair for Richard. On the bar was a mic, several switches, and a small screen.

"The screen is mainly used as a teleprompter for speeches, get used to using it. Other uses are viewing those on the floor below you so that we can remain in the Shadow and seeing who is speaking."

"Why Shadow?"

"Before the Guild, it was a black-market thing and highly illegal therefore the leaders hid in the Shadow. It is part of the darker history that we respect and keep as tradition. You break that tradition for the first time in a millennium. You are the new face. The ex-slave turned Master turned Councilor. We cannot hide you therefore we must use you. I know it sounds bad, but you are the Voice to the People now. We must use you to be heard and get peace made. War has to end. The wannabe dictator¬--in my opinion--is breaking treaties just to start wars he knows he can win. I just wish I could prove it myself."

"Conspiracies told hold together well, but I will find out why the treaty with the Draskins were broken."

Char'zi nodded then looked over the desk and saw Niah with her child. "Doing this job is like being a parent. You have to take each day as it is and learn a little more with it. You will never be perfect at it, but you will get better. We will hold a meeting tomorrow evening. Try to be here, if you can't, use a holopad but in person is best."

"Sure thing."

Collector watch the Cheetah jump over the desk and land quietly on the floor then trot over to his Mouse. They hugged carefully around the child then walked off to an unknown destination. Richard and Collector sat in their seats for a while. Only when Max came in did they stir.

"They are in here. Daydreaming..." Max said to his phone. "So, what are you two doing? Did you forget about everything that was to happen after the ceremony?"

"We did. Where are we needed?" Collector said solemnly.

"Slave holding. We thought Char'zi was going to bring you there."

"He ran off with Niah. Oh, at least he left the badges. Here you go, Richard."

"It has my name on it. Neat."

"Come on, let's go." Max huffed and tried to over exaggerate his impatience.

"Hold your tail, pup. I did have what many consider minor surgery a couple of hours ago."

"So, you are awake and moving. Let's go, 'gramps.'" Max chuckled.

"Boy, you're asking for a butt-whooping."

"Moving that slow! I could out walk you."

"Okay, enough poking fun, I am coming."

Collector slowly joined his protégé then smacked the pup's haunches with his tail. They chuckled then made their way to the slave holding. There they met up with Tara and Dianos along with Octavius Brenson and Councilman One.

"Richard and Richard, nice of you to finally join us. Taking it all in, were we?"

"And resting, the anesthetic finally wore off."

"Now that we are brothers, you may call me Tolbert. You, little Master, must get used to calling him Councilman in the presence of the public and me as casual as possible. Even though the rest of the Council hides in the Shadow of old, he is our Light. Collector is the voice of the Guild now. We must confer to him our opinions and judgements and he now has to make them known." The Bear turned and moved down the room to a large cell where the seven promised Draskins were held. "Little Fox, I am sure Char'zi showed you your House slaves, but I am certain he did not fail to hold back that you now are allowed to examine new slaves and determine whether or not they would be useful to you and your Master. While these two collect their unfortunate spoils of war, come with me to examine some newcomers with my Linden. He will teach you, rather quickly, what to look for just by glancing among other things."

Once the Bear and Fox was out of sight Tara rushed the cell. "Mina, dous hutina?"

"I fine. No hurt. Which Max?"

Tara quickly pulled the Wolf in front of her.

"Ah, nice meet you, Master Max."

"You be good to her or I will bite off that tiny head of yours and not look back."

"I don't plan on hurting her or your siblings. Let's get them out of there."

Tara tugged on the door and found it locked. She whimpered a little then turned to Collector. He shrugged then looked for a keypad. He only saw an old-fashioned keyhole in the door.

"Don't break it, my dear. I am sure someone will show up with the key." Collector rubbed her snout.

Tara sighed and sat beside the door. As she waited for anyone to show up.

"Disaterdae?"

"Hm? Mina, siun?"

"Douc ba sai Fucci un na doc."

"The Fuzzy one has key? Oh, Master Tolbert." Tara jolted upright and took one step before catching herself. "Permission to collect the key, sir?"

"Max, go with her so you can attempt to keep her in line."

As Max and Tara walked off, Collector pointed to Dianos. "Talk."

Dianos and his mother quickly talked. They quieted as the others returned in a group.

Tolbert apologized then unlocked the door then stepped aside. Dianos went in and started placing the young on his mother's back. He had to stop at three. The last three he placed on Tara's back. Tolbert smiled sadly.

"This is why I love and hate the Guild myself. To bring separated families back together is a wonder but doing so because of our own doing is a nightmare in itself. But, as predetermined, the adult goes to Max while the young get separated as you desire. Considering you two won't be apart for some time, it is the best situation for them all." Tolbert perked up as he changed subjects. "Richard, care to share your own experience?"

"Very well, Master Elder. I was allowed to choose whomever I wanted and have them prepared to be sent to Valhan to be our House slaves. Four of which came from there, so we can benefit from them as well. I also found that only the Headquarter slaves cannot leave. So, we can use them as translators if need be. It was interesting to learn how the human has learned to pick up scents and body languages of many species to determine their worth."

"Linden has been working with me for nearly thirty years. He is good at his job."

"Something to aspire to, eh, Richard?" Collector chuckled.

"Yeah."

"Enjoy your evening, Councilman. Though I would suggest hitting the Mall to make an appearance. Just an opinion." Tolbert chuckled as he and his Second walked away.

Collector smiled as he patted his sore chest lightly. It had not bled any, but the throb was enough to make him wince. Modern medicine was a wonder. He got his group to move out to more open space and started heading to the parking lot to find the car and cage.

"Max, you and Roger take everyone home. Richard and I are going to the Mall. Someone needs a proper grooming and a better wardrobe."

Tara looked at him concerningly.

"Very well, you may come, too, just leave the kids with your family."

Tara smiled at him then had Dianos unload her back. "Make sure my children are tended to as well, dung breath."

"Of course, sis. You know Will never let them get hurt."

"Load up." Max ordered.

As the Wolf got the slaves in the cage, Collector spoke to his own human and made sure to let him know that he would be called when he was needed.

Luckily, the Mall was just a couple of blocks away. The trio walked over and made their way into the ground entrance. Collector and Richard wore their badges proudly as Guild guards stood in the lobby to ensure minors were accompanied with their guardians. They saluted as Collector passed them and went downstairs. Their first stop was the groomers, Richard gladly stripped down when called back and allowed the groomer to give him a full body cut.

Once he was finished with his cut and wash. He redressed then Collector led them to a clothing section for slaves. Many of the selections were cheap and easily torn. Collector talked to the staff and was told to visit the public mall across town for business wares. He thanked them then they moved on. He visited various stalls including his favorite. Richard enjoyed himself fully when a very vocal Slaver began to backhand his accompanying slave.

He approached the Slaver and growled loudly.

"Back off, mutt, before I beat you."

"I would hear him out, if I was you." Collector chuckled watching the Slaver human spit and snarl.

"The fu-" The human turned to see Collector and his badge then glanced at the Fox and his badge.

"Punishments are acceptable in public. Plain abuse is not. Shut your damn mouth or be reduced to a sniveling pile of crap yourself." Richard growled out.

"Y-you see I..."

"You backhanded your slave for following you in silence. We saw nothing that led to your outburst and we do not like it. Now... get!"

"Yes, sirs." The Slaver turned to his slave and pulled them up and stormed away.

"Good work, Richard. Next time, use a little less foul language."

"He needs to learn who he calls a mutt."

"True. Come, let's go get something to eat then we head to this mall across town."

They went to one of a few food stands. As Richard ordered for them, Collector called Roger. The man was concerned about the time. Collector agreed once he realized the time then decided to wait for a while. He did decide to go to one of the most expensive stalls in the entire mall. He found out quickly why he rarely even thought of this stall. The cheapest slave was in the five digits. Still he looked around and did love a few of the pedigree slaves. Most were avian though a few looked like the prime examples of house pets.

"Councilman, how may I serve you today?" The clerk was eager to make a sale, that much Collector could see.

"Mostly perusing. What is the price range for this stall?"

"Any from one thousand to a million." He was still pushing, granted Collector wanted something new to bring home.

"I take it that the cheap end is those that you cannot sell."

"They are, sir."

"Who is the owner?"

"I am and salesclerk as well. I prefer knowing my clients personally."

"Ever thought about an offshoot shop?"

"Franchise? No, I have not thought about it."

"Valhan has little when it comes to prime slaves. My placement will be there, and we could benefit each other this way. I like to splurge every now and then, and the slaves you cannot sell here could be sold there. Granted, right now, it is a poorer planet. I expect the economy to flourish soon."

"I will contemplate it, sir."

"Very well, I must take my leave, but I would love to hear an answer soon. You can leave a message at the House."

Collector smiled as he left, he had somewhat practiced that little spiel throughout his visit and only had one straight out 'No.' He was hoping some would start coming with some positive answers soon. Tara asked to make one pitstop before they left. Collector could not deny her, they stopped at the toy store and purchased some educational toys and books. With the quick purchase done, they were on the way to the garage to where Roger waited with the cage.

Collector apologized for the delay, though Roger shrugged it off. Tara loaded herself and Richard latched the door then got into the car. Collector got into the front passenger seat, a rarity anymore, and talked to Roger about the hiring progress. Roger confirmed it was slow going but moving. There were issues with several candidates which meant they had to search for more. Other than that, Roger was grateful for the vacation.

Once home and everything unloaded, they went in to see Max playing with the little Draskins while the two adults sat nearby watching and chatting. Dianos called his Master over as he walked into the room. Collector and Dianos huddled together to better quiet talks.

"No surprise, we are being watched. There are old, old ways to display messages, but we three may be able to pull it off as remembrance displays. Candles and such. Everything contained, but visible. A floating lantern or two to keep suspicions low. Mother said the war wasn't about studying our culture but reforming it. I don't know how, but this needs to stop."

"Talk to Franky if you can get him alone. I know nothing from this point. Do what you must to keep the special one safe."

"I... yes, sir." Dianos smiled watching his Master tap his snout slowly. "I will see to this problem."

"After that intruder, I trust nothing here. Be careful, no names."

"Very well sir."

Collector shooed off the drake as he heard his own children squeal and came running to join the other young. Tara had finally decided to join the rest of the family. She was dragging her tail and allowing her wings to hang loosely. She barely looked at anyone and went straight for the living room. Everyone heard the thump as she dropped to the floor and turned on the tv.

"Master Eld, I talk." Her mother spoke quietly.

"Please. I... worry for her." Collector sat down beside the young ones and toyed with his daughter's tail.

The mother gracefully moved around the gaggle of children and went to join her oldest daughter. Collector watched his son poke what he assumed was his uncle and chuckle as they pounced each other. He missed the busy bustle of the full house. He hated to admit that he could not wait to return to the family. He glanced around randomly thinking of Max and found him looking through the files he had received of the Draskins barely visible to him in the kitchen. He got up and joined the pup.

"Young Alpha, have you learned anything?"

"Nothing useful. All vaccinations up to date. No physical damage. The usual. Why..." It was more of a statement than a direct question.

"Greed is the only thing that comes to mind."

"Hm." The Wolf leaned back in his chair and stretched. "Any word of your proper training?"

"Only that I have a meeting to attend tomorrow. Keep an eye out for anything out of place. I have a feeling that intruder was no homeless man."

"You haven't lived this long not being slightly paranoid. I'll sniff around."

"Be careful and tell your sisters to watch what they say. I don't want to endanger them."

Max nodded. "So, about the young?"

"How many of what do we have?"

"Even split. Lucky us, huh?"

"As long as we don't fully separate them, I don't care. At least one male and female. I will let you choose the ones I get."

Max perked his ears then looked at the door. "Visitor. Loud walker."

Collector smiled then stood before the knock sounded. "I got it, Richard."

He went to the door and smiled as he glanced through the window. The Captain of the Spartan was granting him a visit. He opened the door and greeted the Bear who looked a little miffed. The Bear entered and huffed.

"Forgive me for not calling ahead, but Tommy has not returned to the ship. I was hoping you have seen him."

"No, sorry. But I could go look within the House if he truly went there. Hopefully, some fool didn't try something stupid."

"If you would, please, I would be most grateful. The crew is watching the Spartan, I'll continue looking through the city."

"Dianos, Franky, and Richard, come forth." Vortan smiled glad to see the master of his ship was helping his family. "You two take to the air, search for the young Dulisdae. Richard, we are going to see what our badges can do. Max, keep everyone else here safe. Franky, if you two cannot find him, talk to our mutual friends."

"Yes, Master!" Franky nodded then looked at his flying companion.

"Go, time is of the essence." Collector opened the door once more allowing the drake to squeeze himself through followed by the raccoon. "You have my personal number?"

Vortan grabbed his mobile computer and looked through his contacts. "Yeah, I forget about this thing."

"Keep in contact. We'll talk to the Guild guards. You need to visit the police and get their help. Let them know he is a spacer. That will help when it comes to getting them motivated along with the ship."

Vortan saluted then rushed out the door.

Richard, Collector, and Roger soon parked at the Guild looking for any sign of the boy. Collector and Richard went inside while Roger took to looking at the grounds. Inside, Collector asked the front desk if the young Dulisdae was signed in. The clerk looked through the records and did notice one entering the House about four hours prior. Collector hissed a curse under his breath then asked if there was a location. The clerk smiled and mentioned registration.

Collector took Richard aside and tried to keep from hissing. "Talk to the slaves, find out anything. I'm going to registration and learning what I can."

"Yes, sir, I will see if the guards will help as well. Never know."

"Good luck."

Richard nodded then went for the office areas to see if he could not find his 'Squad' of House slaves.

Collector went down the labyrinth of halls and entered the registration room, no one waited in the lobby at this time. He approached the window and peered inside to see a single secretary milling about with hard copies and file cabinets.

"Excuse me."

"Office hours are from eight in the morning to six. Please come back later."

"Councilman Ten."

"Public Speaker has not offered any office hours yet, please contact the front desk for-"

"I am the Councilman."

The secretary finally looked away from the paperwork and her eyes went wide. "Oh, sorry, sir. Habit you know."

"Don't care. There is a young Dulisdae missing from my crew. He is still logged in the House records to this office."

"Oh, the spacer bear, yeah, I remember him. Real cutie. He's still with the Rep as far as I know."

"Could you check, please. His Captain and father are worried and now there is a chance that there is a police search out for him."

"As you wish, I will be back."

As the lady left his sight, Collector looked at his phone and noticed a silent call coming in. "Hello."

It was Vortan, a little frantic and muttering something about the police not about to help until the twenty-four-hour mark.

"I may have a lead. I'll let you know in a bit. Calm down, and stay alert, just in case."

The connection went dead.

"I hope he doesn't give himself a heart attack."

"Sir, the Rep and the spacer have gone to the holding. Shall I page them?"

"No. But I do need to let his Captain know, thank you for your assistance."

As Collector turned to leave, he made the call back and informed the bear that his missing boy was at the House and safe. He then made his way to the holding hoping to catch the boy on his way through. His hopes did not come through, he made it to the holding and heard the ever-excited lad exclaiming over the various slaves and the distraught Rep. He drew closer to them watching one particular slave trying to hide in the back of his cell.

"What got you thrown in there?" Collector asked carefully.

"I was collared because I could not pay rent." He looked half human half dog.

"Do not fear. I will return." He then quickly met up with the Rep and Tommy. "Hello."

"Ah, Councilman, Hello."

"Tommy, call your grandfather. While he is doing that, I want to talk about that one lone slave."

"That one hasn't been through the training yet."

"Everyone knows I don't care for that. How much?"

"One-fifty."

"He's no longer an expense to the Guild." Tommy looked a little guilty when Collector looked back at the boy. "Tommy?"

"I forgot about check-in time. Nothing major except I will be made to clean the heads for the next month."

"Heads?" The Rep asked.

"Toilets." Collector interjected. "Have you made up your mind on a slave?"

"I don't want to over-spend."

"I'll cover whatever you don't have, but you will have to pay me back while the ship is in dry-dock."

"I can do that. Do you have any Varshinals?"

"This planet forbids anything the resembles insects, my apologies." The Rep grimaced.

"What... what about... Dulisdae?" The question made him hesitant, but he knew that it had to be asked.

"Yes, a male and female. They are three hundred a piece. Imported from Huskianva a month ago. I believe they would be great for you since you would know their needs better than anyone. They will be put on a House list in a month."

"With license and them I will be short on the taxes."

"That is alright. Sir?"

"Very well, Councilman, if you would be so kind to escort our young friend back to my office. I will grab the three slaves."

"Come, young Slaver." Collector smiled and walked slowly into a different corridor. "Be glad it is just the taxes. Could have been a lot worse, not that I would have cared... much."

"I know, but I am grateful."

"Just remember that you are in debt now. At least I don't charge interest like most. You will work it off, and depending on the amount, it might be more than a couple of days."

"Yes, sir."

The rest of the walk was quiet. They went straight into the office and sat in the chairs. It was at that point Tommy apologized to Collector for causing a stir that brought him here. There was not much that could be said against the apology. When the Rep entered the room with the two bears and the half-blood, Collector drew out his wallet and readied his chit card.

"I'll start with Tommy's first."

The transaction went on like normal and processed as normal. Collector smiled seeing that the taxes only lead up to thirty more Azas, but he knew he could get the boy to pay that back in a day's work. He paid for his and Tommy's then they gathered the paperwork, signed titles, and collected receipts before making their way out. They met up with Richard and his network. Richard thanked them then joined his Master escorting the bear out.

Roger was found pacing the grounds as word had gotten to him that the query had been found, and he was more than a little anxious to get him home. The bears complained about the tight fit, but they got into the car with just enough room for the two canine slaves. Collector once again rode up front. Roger took the quickest route to the Spartan and rushed to park by the personnel ramp. Collector climbed out of the car with the bears and went straight for the young Master.

"Tommy, you will join me daily, not to work, but learn. Technically, I will not be a mentor to you, but since you are a spacer, you don't have many choices. Bring both slaves and make sure your Captain knows where you are going. I will not leave an untrained Slaver with two slaves willingly."

"Yes, sir."

"Good, tomorrow we will discuss repayment."

"Yes, sir.'

"Now go scrub some toilets and get some rest. As Elder Master and your teacher, your slaves cannot assist you with your punishment."

Tommy moaned then nodded before heading away.

"Keep him safe you two. He is in no danger on the ship, but out here... he is vulnerable. He only knows crew life."

The two slaves silently followed their new Master. They were afraid, he knew that, but they would learn alongside him. He climbed back into the car with his two slaves.

"Let's head to the park for a bit, Roger. I want to spend some quality time with our frightened friend."

"Alright, but just so you know. We don't have that much space left in that cage; I recommend not purchasing anything else while we are here."

"Agreed."

Roger drove slower, now that his anxiety was dealt with, and made good time getting to the park near the Manor. He parked then joined the others climbing out. It was not often he did join his boss, but he also had the duty of Caretaker to perform. He had to check out the new slave even if it was a quick onceover.

"Alright, pup. Let's go to a nice secluded place." Collector told the mutt.

They wound up going to the same pond where Richard had his unexpected bath. No one was around, which made all of them happier.

"Okay, so, the truth. You did not pay rent."

"Yes, Master."

"Well, your new rent is daily cleaning. You work, you live well. Now tell me your name."

"It is... was Allen."

"Alright, Allen, this is Richard, my Second, and this is Roger, one of the Caretakers. He needs to look you over real quick, then we will continue our discussion."

"Yes, Master."

"Richard," Collector motioned the Fox to follow, they stopped a few steps away. "I know you haven't done this much... but I want you to introduce him to the family ways. Then we will see what he is made of."

"Yes, sir." Richard smiled then they returned to the mutt who was pulling his tattered pants back on. "Okay, pup, we are not hard to get along with. You do your chores, you get to live peacefully, you don't, well, you deal with me then him. Let's try to avoid that. There will be times you will be given a direct task, if it is not completed... well, let's say we'll make sure you put that broad tongue to use. My favorite punishment so far is cleaning the communal bathroom. Most of the males can't aim."

"Understood."

"Now, what skills do you have?"

"I was an advertisement designer."

"Well now... that is a unique skill for a slave. How could you not pay rent?" Collector interrupted Richard's fun.

"The landlord tripled the rent overnight. I was paying six hundred a month and suddenly he wanted eighteen. When I told him that I could not pay that, he called the Guild on me that hour. I told my father not to come around... human stupidity on his part."

"So, I was right, you are half human."

"I am." His ears fell back, and his eyes clamped shut as he was sure to be beaten for it.

Instead, he jumped when he felt gentle claws on his shoulder. "You are not alone." Collector smiled at him. "Don't worry about your blood. I will collar or kill those that try to hurt you now because of that."

"Really?"

"We mix breeds need to stick together. I know it is hard to believe, but I, too, am half human. We will survive. Just know, that if you do not carry your own weight in the family, it will lead to punishment."

"I get it, Master. No work, means punishment. I will do all I can to keep you happy."

"Good. We have some time before dark. Stay within my sight and relax. Roger." He smiled then walked to a bench near the path to the pond. Roger sat with him.

"I'll need more time to examine him, but he looks healthy. He only looks human in the face and that's very little."

"Good. Then I may be able to breed him. I would love to see his pups."

"I would do your favorite kind of inspection with him to see what he is made of first. He may not be the pup you think he is."

"This is why you get to stick around." Collector chuckled. "You know the ins and outs of your job well."

"Don't I know it. I say let the pups play a little then head home. I really am enjoying this quiet moment."

The Slaver allowed his slaves to bask in the little sunlight for a bit then called them back. They had to get home for he and Richard were needed tomorrow. Collector was a little sad that his own freedom was short lived, as it were, and now has become a commercialized 'slave.' At least he knew he could attempt to better things for the lives within the Guild now. Being the so-called voice of the council did have its perks, he just has to learn how to use them.

When they got back to the Manor, Richard did his part and showed the pup the Manor then took him to his Master's room. He introduced Allen to Tara then her kids. After that he told the pup to stay in the room. Richard then went to his Master and told him where he had left the pup. He was thanked, handed a cup of tea, and was left watching the Iguana carry away three more cups and a pot on a tray.

"Hope you like the Manor." Collector said as he entered the room and sat the tray down on his small desk. "I brought tea if you would like some. Tara?"

"Please. Two sugar, no milk."

The gentle 'plink' of the sugar cubes made the dog's ears flick then his jaw slightly drop as the Master served his slave.

"Allen?"

"Sure, I guess... If I may, why serve the tea yourself?"

"I used to be in your shoes... I was a slave. My father, the Master... I, his only son, and heir. I was a Second and a show slave. So, tea was the only thing I truly ever lifted besides the occasional knife. I was barely allowed to feed myself in the early days. 'In case a claw gets broken,' he always told me. It took me years to realize... that he truly cared about me until... madness took him. So, in truth, I still serve my father a little by doing so. You are the first to ever question this."

"My apologies if I brought sour memories out of hiding."

"No need. Richard!" He held a claw up when the pup started to question him again. When the Fox came, he gave a firm order. "Kids."

"Yes, sir. Come along, you two. Let's go play with the big birdie for a bit." Once Richard left with a child in each paw, Tara looked at her mate with a questioning look.

"I want to see how well you can perform. Tara will be the proper judge."

Tara snorted but rolled onto her back.

"Enjoy yourself. I want to see the male within you."

"I..."

"Not a ladies' man?"

"No, Master."

"Sir is fine. Very well. Tara, if you would be so kind to swap with your brother."

"Sure. I would have preferred that myself in the first place." Tara quickly got off the bed and got out the door.

"She doesn't like other males touching her intimately. She will do so, but just because she knows her place. She is my mate and slave. No other male is allowed to touch her without my permission."

"What about you?"

"I am free to do as I wish. Though I tend to stick with those I cannot breed with. Our children were declared as breeders by the Guild, so if you ever need to relieve yourself come to me and I'll let you use either of them."

"I rather not."

"Suit yourself. Ah, Dianos, come and get comfy on the bed. I want to see how he performs before we see what he can take."

"Nice. Give it all to me, I can handle knots." Dianos hummed as he flipped himself onto his back on Collector's bed. "You are a hound, right? Show how me those canine skills."

"I..."

Collector said nothing, but he did go to his tool kit and pull out a small whistle. "Know what this is?"

Allen looked at the whistle and whimpered. He nodded then proceeded to make himself ready.

Collector grinned as the pup finally straddled the Draskin's tail and fully mount the stud in front of him. It did not take him long to get the knot flared and pressed within the greedy hole of the drake and got him to growl out lustfully. Dianos skillfully used his hind claws to draw his current lover in closer so he could enjoy the mouth of the male as well. It was not much longer before the log of meat separated the two. Allen watched lustfully as the shaft grew and swelled until the point he knew he would not be able to take it.

That did not stop him from finishing himself off and attempting to lock himself into the male under him. He was a little disappointed to find himself slipping out of the drake, but very little. Once he stopped his throbbing, he pulled away and waited for his Master to approve of his work.

"You will fit in nicely in the spring orgies. Dianos, go clean up. Allen, welcome to the family. As soon as you can, get dressed then get with Richard for an assignment. Do your jobs quickly and you will have more time to yourself, but do note, being a slave means a lot of work."

"Yes, sir."

"Good, now I am going to get ready for bed, send Richard up here once you are able."

"As you command."

Collector smiled as Allen didn't even bother hiding himself. He saw potential in this slave. He just had to educate him in the slave ways. He walked into the bathroom and took a quick glance over to check for out-of-place items. Once he was happy, he stripped and enjoyed the warmth the water gave. A knock on the door made him smile.

"Richard?"

"It is I, sir."

"Come in." Richard did so and sat on the stool. "Has there been anything found?"

"Only a pen. I dismantled it myself and only found ink within. I tossed it into the back alley just in case."

"Good. There was another thing I wanted to bring about. Is there anything... changing in Uki?"

"As in?"

"Pregnancy."

"That... when we left, I had not noticed anything different. I am hoping I have become a sire."

"I'll send a message to Karen when we get to the Guild tomorrow. I am honestly hoping you can be called a dad soon."

"If I am to be honest, I am lonely without her."

"I bet..." Collector turned the water off then stretched out to grab the towel off the hook to dry himself. "Ready yourself for bed, my Fox, for we have an early start. I have not told Roger that I plan on leaving early, and I would like to keep it that way. I want us to be able to escape and find a nice diner to get breakfast and then shop for ourselves."

"He's not going to be happy."

"No, he is not, and that is just fine. I was also thinking about asking our Innodiate neighbors, most likely won't though..." Collector hung the towel back up with a sigh then picked up his clothes. "Take a shower if you wish, but head to bed soon."

"Are you afraid of your own kind?"

"Fifty-fifty. More or less worried that I will offend someone since I know nothing of the culture that I am supposedly a part of. Though, I guess I have the resources to learn, eh?"

"We both do. While we were searching for Tommy, I found a library of sorts meant for Councilman, so they can learn about all the slaves that come through the system. My work team conferred this with me."

"Somebody has been getting an education." Collector chuckled. "I do love that you are willing to expand your vocabulary. Just be careful on where you study. You can get away with more knowledge, yes, but it is still unwise to do so in public."

"Thank you. If I may, can I stay with you tonight? I find my old room a little empty."

"As long as Tara does not throw a fit."

Richard's tail wagged happily as his Master walked by him and went across the hall to his room. The Fox barely hesitated to join his Master and undressed himself. Collector chuckled as he heard clothes touch the floor even though he did not turn around. Instead he just went to the bed and opened the covers.

"Don't forget the light."

A tail wagged silently as the light went out and the curtain was closed. Then the Fox crawled into the bed next to his Master. The Iguana smiled and rolled over to put his back against the Fox and placed his tail over him. Richard pulled his Master close and nuzzled the neck of his scaly companion as he gently pressed his warm groin to the underside of his Master's tail.

"Let's see what you have learned, my Second, I don't have Butch to scratch the itch I save for him alone... I guess it is time to expand my exceptions a little and allow some younger pups enjoy themselves with me."

"If I remember correctly, I have dominated you before and it ended badly for me."

"True, true, but this time I know there is no bets being placed."

Richard chuckled and took claim of his Master slowly until they fell asleep still tied together. Neither stirred when Tara came into the room nor when she laid down on the floor beside the bed. At first light, Collector and Richard stirred and quietly dressed. They both grinned as they made their way downstairs quietly. When they started to leave, however, they heard a deep growl behind them.

"Where do you two think you're going without security?" Will huffed at them.

"Getting breakfast and going shopping before our meeting." Collector tapped his clawed foot lightly.

"You need to take someone with you two."

"Fine. Who?" Richard tried to keep from growling himself.

"Dianos, get in here." Will stepped aside to allow the drake into their sight. "I will inform Roger when he gets up. You three be safe and call before noon."

"Don't get yourself in trouble... 'Dad.'" Dianos chuckled as he pushed by the Wolf and nudged his two superiors out the door.

"It is my job to worry about him and keep him safe."

"It's fine, Dianos, don't pick on him too much. There is a lot on his plate protecting me. Besides, with you tagging along, we have a way to pack clothes and make travel faster."

"Joy..." The drake chuckled as he dropped himself to the ground just outside the front door.

"We will call before noon as asked." Collector smiled then went outside.

"Be safe, Wolf, we don't need you being separated from your pups, now do we?" Richard nodded before he, too, joined the drake. "You better be good yourself." Richard huffed as he climbed the Draskin's haunch.

"As long as you watch those sharp claws, I will." Dianos leapt into the air as soon as the Fox sat smiling at the yelp that sounded afterwards.

"Easy." Collector, too, was smiling at the Fox. "First we need to find food then shopping."

"Where to?"

"Doesn't matter as long as there is room for you to land and they have takeout."

"You don't have to spend much on me. I can eat my fill when we return home."

"Returning home before work was not in the plan, but we will see if the Guild will have much to offer you."

Dianos smiled as he flew quietly searching for an open restaurant. Lucky for him he found one that was made for the larger citizens of the galaxy. He landed as close to the building as he dared then allowed his passengers down.

"A buffet... maybe I can get my fill." He joked as his Master came to the front of him.

"As long as they don't charge by the plate for you."

"I'll behave, I promise."

Collector lead the way in; once he found that it was a limited all-you-can-eat for the larger patrons, he allowed the drake to eat what he was allowed. Despite the stares and hushed conversations around them as they ate, their meal was pleasant and fulfilling. As they left, however, they were stopped by a young boy.

"Es'cuse me, are you a dragon?"

Collector chuckled at the curious lad and his slightly scared parents a few steps behind him. "He sure is. Just don't ask him to breathe fire, he had onions and garlic."

The boy started to bounce on his heels as he looked Dianos over.

"Are you folks getting ready to head out?"

"We are, uh, Councilman... sir." The father stammered carefully.

"Unless you are a Guild member, you can call me Collector. Come, I am sure someone would love to have picture proof for his friends showing he met a real-live dragon."

That got the nervousness to break some, they went outside to where Dianos could stretch out his wings and let the boy climb onto his back giving him advice with his balance. After a few poses and a mild roar, the boy was satisfied and rejoined his parents who, also, were happy with the show.

"Visit the Guild someday and learn more about his kind. I am hoping that they will start visiting Earth soon." Collector smiled as he and Richard climbed onto Dianos' back.

They quickly took to the air and flew off. They found the mall and made their way inside and began to search for the clothing shop. Dianos had to stay in the halls as the other two shopped due to his size and shop staff complaining whenever he attempted to enter. He did not mind much as he answered questions of the curious populace to bide time.

Two and a half hours later, Richard was the owner of four business suits and a week's worth of business casual clothes. Collector made sure everything was easy to clean then they went for the Guild House. Once there, they went to the offices and went to theirs. Richard found his little crew and had them wash his clothes while he had Jasper teach him a few things.

All the while, Collector called Roger to check in, then Karen to check on things. She gave her report then asked if her husband was causing any problems. Collector joked then told her the most he was doing was driving him around and that he had forced him to have a day off when he snuck out. Karen just laughed at that then told him to have fun with his meeting before signing off.

Collector leaned back in the chair and relaxed a moment before checking the holoscreen computer for any notices about his position. He did have an incoming visual. He clicked the icon and smiled as he saw the image of Niah.

"Enjoying the quiet before the storm?" She asked.

"Depends on the storm."

"Come next door while your Fox is running about. You need to learn a few things before the meeting."

"Very well."

Niah closed the connection leaving him to sigh and make his way to the next office. Before he even knocked, the door opened, and he was pulled in by the collar of his shirt.

"Hey!"

"Hush, have a seat." Niah closed the door then Char'zi secured the room.

"We are secure. Richard, as you know, there are Top Secret projects within the Guild as much as the government if not more. These projects will never be in the public eye. One such project is in my care, a special breeding project involving an endangered race that is highly kept secret from the public and the government. Today's meeting is about this race. You will not have a say in this matter because it involves you, but we agreed that you should be present regardless of our decision."

"What race?"

"What do you know about the myths of my people?" Char'zi leaned onto elbows and rested his chin in his paws.

"Honestly, nothing."

"Your people."

"Same."

"Shame. Well they both have one common myth, a race that could change shape, fly, swim, and control the elements. They were the founders of Innodia and Khas Arentia. We found them, they were dying out, around one hundred thousand, barely enough to sustain a healthy populace. We have been hiding them on planets serving as Guild Slaves to the Council for generations. They serve us as eyes and ears, we provide the means to sustain their race including artificial insemination when needed. Many of them do not know how to breed. Those that remembered allowed themselves to be recorded to show future generations. There is no male-female gendering only host and host. Their race forgot themselves as they learned of other races and studied their lives, even joining them. Many will call themselves by the gender they prefer or even taking on both at the same time. I have found that, when as a female, they can breed with other races. Though male forms cannot breed."

"Have I crossed paths with any of these beings?"

"I am sure you have. Will we know it? No. Not until we get a report from them, even then we don't see them. Just a handwritten report. Though if we come to a positive conclusion, you will know your spy as it will be reporting directly to you on Valhan. I expect the same style we get in the end. They are very hardy critters. In depths that would kill anything else, they live, heat, cold, I bet even vacuum they would live. Though I would never space one to test the theory. They would make for excellent assassins but are pacifists."

"So, these creatures have a name?"

"They do, but I will not say it. Too many problems can occur. You have heard the saying 'Names have power?'"

"Yeah. Something tells me that it is not a fairytale."

"Exactly. This name said in the wrong company would start a galactic war if not a true tyranny."

"In due time, you will learn it, but not from me."

"Alright. Is there anything else?"

"Oh, plenty, but the secret stuff is now done. There is... three hours before the meeting, so now it is time to learn about proper Council stuffs."