FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Leo leaned against the outer wall parapet, taking in the fresh wind while gazing at the endless savannah. He kept pivoting his ears, trying to catch the quiet pawsteps of someone sneaking up on him, then remembering there was no need for caution. He felt a pleasant frisson each time. There was no line of succession in Madini's pride and therefore no junior princes who might want to jump it.

The trade caravan was arriving. A train of carriages drawn not by gnus, or some more exotic beasts of burden, but a growling metal monstrosity exhaling a cloud of black smoke. A sudden scratching noise beside him caught Leo's ear. Imara's claws were making white scratches in the sandstone blocks of the parapet. She wore a deep frown as she observed the arrival.

"Mistress, is something the matter?" Leo asked.

Imara's gaze remained fixed on the visitors. "The winds of change will soon sweep across these lands and we must either yield or break. The Queen knows this, but she believes we can weather the storm by simply loosening our purse strings."

"I'm not sure I understand."

"A scant few decades ago, the lynxes were hinterland barbarians hardly anyone had even heard of. Somehow, in the blink of an eye, they've become a nation that might rival even the tiger empire."

Leo wondered about that. Lynxes were like short, stocky cheetahs--not exactly intimidating. "Do you think they pose a threat to us?"

"Indirectly, for now. I would be less concerned if the things they were exporting were merely vanities like flameless lamps and cheap textiles. Word is, they've begun selling weapons."

Leo nodded slowly. The last time he'd encountered the traders, the guns were an open secret and one of the few things definitely not for sale. "Then, can't we also acquire them?"

Imara turned to face Leo. "You were a prince. Say that your father covets his neighbor's land. What is stopping him from going to war and taking it?"

"Oh, he does, but it's a lot harder to siege a castle than it is to defend it. A single kingdom can't do it alone, or at least keep it up without leaving their own castle unguarded."

"Then can you explain why have we not been invaded? Our neighbors' opinions on us vary only in the depth of their contempt. What keeps them from banding together?"

"Even among kingdoms, begrudging tolerance is the best you can hope from your neighbors. Alliances are risky and difficult to forge. Betrayal is expected from the outset." Leo paused, wondering if he was speculating too much. "Also... Kings might not admit it, but they know your... I mean our army is many times bigger. In the kingdoms, lionesses do not fight."

"A delicate balance. Now, what would happen if a small troop armed with muskets could decimate an entire army of lions who fight with sword, spear, and claw?"

Leo frowned and stopped to think. If the defenders were also similarly armed, then the balance should be restored, right? This was unknown territory. It wasn't at all unlikely some king somewhere might decide to give it a shot. "War might erupt across the continent," he suggested.

"And where would that leave us? The northerners sell their guns to anyone with gold. We will not survive alone."

"But is it also not possible we might come out of the fray stronger, if we keep to ourselves while our neighbors throw themselves at each other?"

"Anything is possible but I wouldn't bet our future on it. What we need is trustworthy friends to call upon in a time of need, but the lynxes are mercenary and the hyenas too far away."

"Mistress. I've learned that in every kingdom there are lions like me, who share a... fascination with the Queendom. There surely exists Kingdoms that might be more sympathetic than you realize."

Imara gave Leo a sharp glare. "And are these lions anywhere close enough to positions of power to be of consequence?"

"I was a seventh prince. Though I was never going to be King, I would've had his ear. It's not impossible that there could be kings out there who would gladly let the Queen to step on tem. Perhaps in private, though."

"An amusing thought," Imara said, her features softening. "I shall consider what you said, if only for the fantasy that I might one day be Queen and have a royal visitor offer himself as a footstool."

"Thank you, Mistress."

Imara looked down at where the caravan had come to a stop near the main gate. Grey and brown furred lynxes swarmed like ants, loading boxes onto hand carts. "Now, let us go welcome our guests."

The delegation arrived at the Queen's court. Leo's chest swelled with honor to be allowed to stay by Imara's side at such an occasion. Though not yet a full pride member he sure felt like one, having been permitted--or required, rather--a loincloth in the pride's colors.

A group of three lynxes made their way to the throne, one taking point and the others standing back. Curiously, all were female. Back at his father's kingdom, Leo had witnessed a similar rendezvous but had only seen males. Granted, as with cheetahs, the lack of a mane on either sex made them all look alike, but at least these lynxes possessed feminine curves, accentuated by the grey suits they wore. Despite their thick fur, the garments were rather form fitting and no doubt uncomfortable. This had to be a symbol of status: they did not stress themselves with physical labor like the ones hauling crates outside. This manner of constricting dress also suggested that high ranking lynxes did not settle their disputes with on-the-spot duels but by some deferred, more highly ritualized form of combat.

The lead lynx bowed her head. "Queen Madini. On behalf of the Commonwealth Transcontinental Trading Company, I, commissioner Elva Fjordborg, thank you for receiving us."

"You are welcome, as always," the Queen said. "I hope your journey was uneventful."

"Indeed it was, for the most part. Midway through the Narrow Forest, we found the road blocked by a fallen tree. While clearing it, we were ambushed by leopard bandits."

"Dreadful! Did you suffer any casualties?"

"Fortunately not. Our guards are experienced in dealing with such thugs. We were even able to apprehend one of the villains before he could abscond with our property."

The Queen nodded approvingly.

"With the Queen's permission, we would like to present our inventory. In addition to our standard wares, we have also brought a newly developed product we thought you might find of particular interest. If you allow us a time and place to prepare, we can present you with a live demonstration."

"You have it. But what is this new product you speak of?"

A proud smile spread on Elva's muzzle. "The latest innovation in electrics. A multipurpose device for the efficient disciplining and interrogation of prisoners that also possesses recreational and medicinal uses."

"Interesting. Mahiri. Assist them in setting up their demonstration."

Mahiri bowed. "Yes, my Queen."

Elva continued, "If you may, there is one more thing. The Parliament has recently enacted certain market liberalizing reforms which have allowed us to expand into new sectors. I would like to humbly request a private audience to discuss a deal with potential for great mutual profit."

The Queen waved her hand dismissively. "You may speak with Imara in my stead and I will render my decision based on her report."

"Certainly," Inga said, giving a small bow.

The Queen put her hands on the armrests, preparing to stand up. Curiously, the throne was bare--the lions usually strapped to the armrests to serve as living cushions were absent. An etiquette issue? Perhaps such displays of domination and submission were meant only for other lions, not foreigners. "I believe this audience is concluded. Prepare your demonstrations. We shall reconvene to finalize the exchange."

"Thank you, your Majesty," Elva said.

Leo followed Imara, keeping respectfully behind and slightly to the side of her, as she went over to the trade delegation.

"Ah, Lady Imara," Elva said. "Let us show you our inventory."

Imara made a motion with her arm for Elva to lead the way. She and Leo followed the lynxes to the courtyard, where their workers had set up racks full of fine cloths, metal tools, electric light bulbs, and a myriad other manufactured goods. One particular rack caught Leo's eye. The fabled new weapons. Muskets, pistols, and barrels of gunpowder and lead shot. The end of an era.

Elva gestured at the weapons. "It is now legal for us to export certain classes of firearm. I can recommend the muskets. Though not as convenient as the pistols, they have longer range which makes them ideally suited for the defense of fortifications, such as this castle."

"Have you sold these to our neighbors?" Imara asked as she gave the items an appraising look.

"I am not at liberty to say. Customer confidentiality, you understand. But I can say that our stock is running low, so you might not get a second chance to purchase these."

"I will have our chief of guard select what we need," Imara said. It heartened Leo to hear it. Imara was no fool. Whatever misgivings she had, she knew these weapons were vital for safeguarding the pride's future. "Was this what you wished to discuss in private? The sale of weapons?"

"There is one other thing, if you have the time."

Imara made a beckoning motion with her hand. "We can talk in my quarters."

"May I bring a servant?"

"If you must."

Elva turned towards the nearest lynx setting up a merchandise rack and made a hissing and a spitting noise at him. "You there! Come with me." The lynx, a rather low ranking one based on the drab tunic he wore, put the bolt of cloth he was holding back and scampered up to Elva.

At Imara's private quarters, Elva took a seat on the couch, presumptuously and unprompted, on the very spot Imara liked to sit at.

Taking a seat opposite to the lynx, Imara ordered Leo to pour them some water in a tone chillier than the drink.

Leo went to the kitchenette to get a pair of drinking bowls and a pitcher. He set bowls down on the table between Imara and Elva and filled them. Elva took her bowl, holding it with two fingers, and gave it a courteous lap. Her muzzle twitched and she put it back. Perhaps water tasted different in her homeland? Leo went down on his knees to await further orders. The lynx servant stood by his mistress, hands crossed in front of him.

Leaning back and getting comfortable, Elva eyed the bondage cross on the wall next to the couches. Her face betrayed no emotion. "I admire your bold taste in decor," she said in a flat tone that might have been sincere or sarcastic. "The bland, inoffensive veneer we have to put on in the corporate world can be so stifling."

"Let's skip the pleasantries, shall we?" Imara said. "You have something new to trade?"

"Straight to business. I like that," Elva said, half closing her eyes. "Yes indeed. We have developed a new market based method for the efficient allocation of labor resources. We call it a 'labor futures contract.' It allows one to sell and trade the unrealized work of an individual."

"Do elaborate."

"Let me put it in concrete terms." Elva turned to the other lynx. "What is your name?"

"It is Rufus, miss."

"Rufus here has signed a contract to sell his labor upfront. Right now, his contract is owned by the Company."

The beginnings of a scowl appeared on Imara's face. "Are you sure this is a new invention?"

"You might be thinking of some antiquated system of forced labor or indentured servitude," Elva said, a coy smile on her lips. "Nothing so crass! I'm talking about a sophisticated financial instrument. The company does not own Rufus, only his future labor potential. He is a free individual, but he has a debt to repay, subject to terms he voluntarily signed per contract law."

"I see. And where are you going with this?"

"These contracts are tradable. If you were to purchase his, you would have the right to decide what form his labor takes, within the constraints of your legal framework, and--of course--you could require him to stay here to fulfill his debt obligation." She turned to him again. "Rufus. Take off your clothes and kneel on the floor like the lion."

Rufus pulled back in surprise. "Miss Fjordborg?"

"That is a lawful order in this jurisdiction."

For a couple of seconds he simply stared at Elva, perhaps wondering if her statement was true and whether it even mattered if it wasn't. After the moment of deliberation, he began undressing. He pulled his tunic over his head and placed it onto the floor, then removed his smallclothes, while trying to position himself so as to keep his private parts covered. Rufus knelt down, looked at Leo, and copied his pose: thighs parted, back straight, and hands held just above the base of his tail. He kept his head low, his big tuft tipped ears flattened.

"See," Elva said. "He could fit right in. But his particular contract is not what I wished to discuss. The Company is interested in purchasing any labor futures you might have to offer."

Imara shook her head. "We trade like for like. The value of a life cannot be measured in gold and thus cannot be exchanged for gold."

"Ah, but it is not a life that is being traded. Surely you are not unfamiliar with the concept of wages? Time is money and, per his contract, Rufus still owes somewhere around twenty thousand working days worth of labor. That was a guess, by the way, not a binding offer. I will have to confirm the exact value remaining."

Imara snorted. "Very clever. And I assume he signed such a contract voluntarily?"

"Of course. Uncoerced, voluntary transactions are at the heart of all trade, no? The most common reason for signing such a contract is as a debt collateral. I'm sure you can see how this is a win for all parties involved."

"How?"

"Pardon?"

"How is it a win for him?"

Elva raised her eyebrows in exaggerated astonishment. "Why, it allowed him access to the capital he needed to build his farm or shop or whatever it was he did. You cannot expect banks to hand out loans without collateral. There is risk in any venture, but there can be no gains without risk."

"My answer remains the same. We are not interested."

"Let me give you an advance warning," Elva said, leaning forward, her voice low and conspiratorial. "Our economy is growing at an ever increasing rate. So fast, in fact, that our money supply is not keeping up, leading to one financial crisis after the other. Your gold coins are worth their face value today, but whether they are legal tender next year is far from certain."

"Therefore, we should find something more valuable to trade with?"

Elva winked. "You got it. I understand you have little a problem with vagrants trespassing on your territory? In my country, that is a crime punishable by a fine."

"That can be paid off by working if one's pockets don't happen to be bulging with gold?"

"A most elegant solution, wouldn't you agree? I will let you retain Rufus's services until we conclude our negotiations. Try-before-you-buy is a common courtesy we offer. In fact, I can even offer you his contract as a free sample to introduce the concept."

"That will not be necessary."

"I insist. Rufus, I authorize Lady Imara as my proxy. You will obey her every order within the scope of the Queendom's law."

Rufus kept his head down. In a defeated voice he said, "Yes, Miss Fjordborg."

Elva stood. "I must return to work. Consider my offer." She turned towards the door.

"Take your servant with you, I have no need of him."

"He is yours for the day." Elva pointed at the cross. "Put him up as a decoration on your wall if you have no other use for him." She turned and headed for the door, saying, "No need to escort me, I know my way back."

Imara made a tsk noise and watched Elva go, then turned her attention to Rufus. "You may put your clothes back on." He thanked her and quickly dressed himself. At Imara's gesture, he sat on the couch opposite to her. "Explain to me," Imara said. "How you did you become... indebted to the Company."

Rufus sat with his knees held tightly together and his hands grasping his elbows. He stole a glance at the cross, perhaps wondering if he really might end up on it. After a second he began his tale. "I was a farmer. I got a loan from a bank and bought a plot of land of my own. Because of a harvest ruined by a historically cold winter, I was unable to meet my loan payments and my farm was repossessed, as was my collateral. At first I kept working on my old farm, which was bought up by an energy company but, for reasons I'm not privy to, my contract was resold to the Trading Company."

"And what is this energy company and why would they buy your failed farm?"

"They farm crops that can be turned into fuel. It has become profitable because the only known deposit of coalstone is running out."

"These fuels are so important?"

"Oh yes. It's because of coalstone this period of time is now being called the Industrial Revolution."

Imara leaned back on the couch, smiling a wide, satisfied smile. "Elva did me a favor in insisting I keep you. I doubt she would have volunteered this information. Tell me, Rufus, what fate awaits you up north?"

The lynx shrugged. "I'll keep on working for the Company until I'm no longer physically able, and if they cannot find another buyer for my contract I'll most likely end up a beggar on the streets."

Imara nodded slowly and remained silent for many long minutes. At last, she spoke, "I am prepared to accept Elva's offer. At that time, you may consider your debt repaid and you may return to your homeland."

Rufus's eyes went wide and his ears pivoted forward. "Thank you, Lady Imara. You are too generous. Though I'm sad to say that there is nowhere for me to return, for I've lost everything I had to my name."

"That is unfortunate, though it sounds little different from the life of a rogue lion. As a farmer, you might fit in with the cheetahs tending to our land." Imara paused and narrowed her eyes, the corners of her lips curving up slightly. "Or, you could petition to join our pride. There is no law that says you have to be a lion."

Leo very nearly turned to stare at Imara, managing to stop himself just in time. Had he heard right? Jealousy was an ugly feeling, one he shouldn't express here, but he couldn't help but to feel what he felt, even if he couldn't quite identify why. Surely the lynx was no rival to him. Leo was basically a mere formality away from being a true member anyway.

Hearing the offer, Rufus opened his mouth and let it hang before asking, "What... would it mean for me to join your pride?"

"You would live as one of us and enjoy the comforts, protection and privileges entailed. But be aware, those privileges come with obligations you may not be used to. We are a pride in the traditional sense: a sisterhood of lionesses who host itinerant males. Since we are surrounded by aberrations known as kingdoms, we require absolute subservience from any male who wishes to stay with us."

"I will need time to think about this," Rufus said.

"Let me make it clear that I am not promising you a place with us. If you choose attempt it, you must convince a group of my peers and the Queen herself that you would make a good addition. I cannot guarantee they will accept you."

Rufus nodded. "I understand."

Imara stood and motioned for Leo and Rufus to do the same. "Now, I believe Mahiri has a demonstration prepared. You two, follow me."

They went all the way down to the dungeons. Imara opened the first cell door they happened upon and had Rufus go inside. "Consider this a break from your duties," she said and locked him inside.

As Leo followed Imara down the corridor, he couldn't get the conversation out of his head. "Mistress, may I ask a question?" he said.

"Ask."

"Why are you making him this offer?"

"Call me sentimental. That, and I do not like the northerners' way of doing business. All that two-faced talk about contracts and debt made my blood boil. They either take us for fools or think we are as morally corrupt as they are. It took all my self control not to bend her over the table and shove those papers right up her ass."

Leo's eyes went wide. Though he knew from personal experience that she had quite the temper, it was shocking to hear Imara speak in such a vulgar manner.

She added, "That, and Mahiri has her cheetah paramour. I will not be one-upped."

That was more like the Imara he knew. But her answer was oddly evasive. "Mistress, forgive me for asking, but I still do not understand. Is this not exchanging a life for gold?"

"Did you not listen? No gold will change hands. It is a gift, not a trade."

"Yes... but, is that not just the same wordplay they use?"

Imara stopped in her tracks. She gave Leo a glare that made him shrink back like a wounded gazelle. "I have dedicated my life to serving the interests of this pride. You are a newcomer, and a male one at that. How dare you second-guess my judgement?"

"I'm sorry, Mistress."

"I will see that you are. No more questions."

Leo stayed quiet, though he couldn't rid himself of an ill feeling in his stomach. Though Imara no doubt believed whatever she was plotting was for the greater good, she clearly knew some rules were being bent past their breaking point and that there would be consequences.

They came upon an open door with light shining out. The room was filled with benches upon which lionesses were already sitting in wait. At the side stood a heavy chair, presently unoccupied.

Imara took the last remaining seat on the front row bench and Leo knelt down beside her. He now took a closer look at what was going on at the front. There was Mahiri, standing next to a heavy wooden surgeon's table, like the one in Asim's office. On the other side stood one of the lynxes, now wearing shiny black gloves and an apron made of the same material over her formal suit. Behind her was the thing being demonstrated. A wooden box on a trolley, roughly two feet high and four wide. The front side was hinged open to reveal a mystifying array of knobs and dials. From a grid of holes emerged cloth wrapped cables terminating in a variety of silvery implements that had a vaguely medical look about them, suggesting they were to be applied to the body. It gave Leo an uneasy feeling. He wasn't sure if he wanted to witness the demonstration.

Tense, silent minutes passed before the Queen herself appeared. Two older lions followed her and knelt down on either side of her as she took a seat on the reserved chair. The Queen's attendants wore short and narrow loincloths woven with a pattern in the pride's colors with additional gold thread inlay. Their collars were also gold fringed and they wore ornate wristbands that would have passed for jewelry if not for the very functional tie-down rings on them. The Queen's husbands, perhaps?

Mahiri went to close the chamber door. The sound of the door slamming shut almost made Leo jump. His heart beat so loudly he thought the others might hear.

The lynx took a step forward. "I am commissioner Inga Crowsbog. I am glad to see that our new product has attracted such an audience." She gave a small bow to the Queen. "And what an honor to have even the Queen herself in attendance." She stepped back and placed a hand on the wooden box. "Let me present you the latest invention by the brilliant minds of the Belicos Radio Company. A device that harnesses the power of undulating currents for the direct excitation of the nerves and the muscles. It is infinitely adjustable, capable of producing anything from subtle sensations akin to a fleeting touch of a feather, to agony so indescribable that it makes torturers fear for their jobs! It is a truly multifunctional machine, equally at home in the bedroom, the doctor's office, or the interrogation cell!

"We had prepared a test subject of our own, but Lady Mahiri assured me there would be volunteers among the audience, which is always preferable. You know you'll be witnessing genuine reactions!"

Leo felt Imara's hand grasping the nape of his neck. "Here's one for you," she said, making him stand up. His mouth went dry. He couldn't say he hadn't expected this on some level, but now that he was on the spot, his jaw was trembling. At the Queen's nod, Imara gave Leo a push forward.

"Ah, a brave volunteer appears! Perfect!" Inga said.

Mahiri patted the table. "Strip and lie down."

The stare of a dozen pairs of eyes burned at his back. He walked forward, stopping right at the table. Both Mahiri and Inga were looking expectantly at him. He let the loincloth fall to the floor and lay down on the hard wooden surface. As soon as he was on his back, Mahiri grabbed his wrist and positioned his arm on the rest jutting out from the main part of the table. She buckled a thick leather strap over his forearm, then moved to the other side to restrain his other arm. Moving on to his legs, she grabbed his foot and lifted it into a rest and buckled another set of restraints around his calf and thigh. When she was done, he lay spread-eagled on the table, his legs slightly elevated, offering unhindered access to his crotch, as well as a good view to the audience. A small wooden bar latched over the base of his tail made it impossible for him to cover himself up. Mahiri next tightened a belt that, in combination with the thigh straps, completely immobilized his pelvis. She finished the job by strapping a second belt over his chest, ensuring there was no way he could wriggle himself free.

Leo's heart was pounding. The uncertainty of what was to happen had to be worse than whatever the reality might be. The feel of Mahiri's hand grasping his cock cage gave him a little shudder. In a situation like this, the cock cage felt less like a restraint and more like a piece of armor. The small lock made a nearly inaudible click, then her other hand went under his balls to pull the two pieces of the cage apart. For a second she disappeared from view, then reappeared holding a ball gag. She did not have to tell Leo what to do, he opened his jaws and allowed her to put the gag in and fasten the leather straps behind his head.

Mahiri stepped back and Inga appeared next to him, casually putting a gloved hand on his knee. "I will first demonstrate the machine's capability of generating painful stimulus. This is its most basic function, requiring neither skill nor finesse from the operator. While most effective when applied to the genitals, I will save that area for later. Much to our volunteer's relief, I'm sure!"

Leo wholeheartedly agreed. Inga held up a small silver rod with cable leading to the machine from its base. "The basic principle is very simple. Two or more electrodes are placed on the body. The current flowing between them causes muscles to contract and nerves to fire. To ensure a good contact, I will place the common electrode in the subject's rectum."

Leo tried to relax and loosen himself as he felt the cold metal touch his pucker. Ready or not, it slid it. Bound and gagged, he had no say on the matter. It was coated in some thick, tingly lubricant. Leo let out a small groan as the bulbous bottom of the electrode pushed past his sphincter and settled there. He watched as Inga next slipped a loop of metal wire coated in the same slimy substance around his big toe and tightened it there, then did the same to his other foot.

"The subject is now prepared. Observe his reaction as I switch on the machine."

Leo braced himself. The switch made a loud clacking noise but nothing seemed to happen, except for a near subliminal whine that increased in pitch until entirely inaudible. He saw Inga's thumb and forefinger grasping a knob and turning it. He felt it then. His leg muscles twitched and there was a stinging around his big toes and deep inside him, as if he was being bitten by ants. She turned the knob some more and his legs cramped harder, like he was now buried waist deep in an anthill. Leo groaned and tried to shift in his restraints.

Inga faced the audience. "As a courtesy to our volunteer, I've kept the tension low, but you can tell he is in considerable discomfort."

"You don't need to hold back," came Imara's voice. "He can handle it."

"Are you certain?"

"Yes. Let's see a proper demonstration."

"Very well."

The pain hit him like the lash of a whip. But unlike the whip whose white-hot sting quickly fades into a merely hot ember, this pain didn't relent. Leo roared and bit down on his gag until he tasted blood. He strained his arms and arched his back as far as the restraints allowed. He might have pulled a muscle but that was nothing compared to the agony in his lower body. It was unlike anything he had ever felt before, like he was being dipped in boiling oil while inside out. He began to black out, his scream had gone silent as there was no more air in his lungs. Then, sweet relief, the pain stopped. Leo slumped back and gasped for breath.

Hazily, he could make out Inga speaking again. "The subject's reaction to something you can neither hear nor see is quite dramatic, wouldn't you agree? Even at this high tension, the current does no lasting damage, though if the subject is in a weakened condition, he may succumb from the exertion."

The lynx leaned over him. She held a horn to his chest and listened to his fluttering heart. "By the sound of his heartbeat, he is in no danger." She reached for the machine and the pain hit him again. It wasn't as extreme this time. Leo struggled against his bonds, but what came from his throat was something akin to a low growl and he managed to gasp for breath every now and then. Inga continued her narration but Leo didn't hear the words, as the fire burning in his legs claimed his full attention. He pushed against the restraints in an effort to distract from agony. Her speech went on and on, or perhaps it just felt like it. Leo was tiring, his groan of pain now a soft ululating yowl that came out with his shallow breaths. At long last, the machine switched off and he took a deep breath followed by a long sigh of relief. Incredible how simply the sudden absence of pain could feel practically orgasmic.

"Now, this hands-off approach is all fine and good," Inga said, continuing a speech Leo hadn't consciously registered. "But what if you want precise control?" She turned to the machine to rearrange the cables, pulling some out, plugging others in, and making adjustments to the knobs and dials. Once done, she held up a new implement for everyone to see: a wooden handle with a spiked wheel on the end.

She approached Leo with the implement in hand, crouching down by his feet. She touched the spike wheel to his paw pad. Leo yowled. If not for his restraints, his legged would have kicked, hard. The needle stung as if red hot and driven right through his foot. Inga lifted up the instrument and the pain vanished as quickly as it had come. Leaning over him, her face expressionless, she hovered the wheel over his leg, carefully selecting her next point of attack. She touched it to his calf, the sharp points pricking skin through his fur, and slowly rolled it up towards his thigh. Again Leo yowled. Though it drew no blood, he could have believed his leg was being sliced open with a dull jagged knife. She lifted it for just long enough to give Leo time to gasp for breath before continuing up his inner thigh. His muscles quivered under the effect of the electricity. He bit down on the gag to keep from screaming himself hoarse. Sight of the wheel steadily approach his balls filled Leo with desperation. He shook his head from side to side and made pleading groans. Inga lifted her hand just before the needles touched his scrotum.

Ignoring him, she turned to the audience. "A hand held electrode can be a provide a more intimate experience for both parties, and is typically the method employed when engaging in recreational use. Now, as I promised our volunteer, I will leave electric genital torture for you to discover by yourselves, should you choose to make the purchase."

Leo sighed in relief as Inga switched the machine off and began removing the electrodes from around his big toes. His reprieve was short lived, as she continued, "Next, I will show how the machine can be used to generate non-painful, or even pleasurable stimulus."

Inga made more adjustments to the machine, flipping a switch here, turning a knob there. She turned back to him, one of the wire loop electrodes in her hand. She slipped it over his sheath and balls. Leo's lips twitched around his fangs at the sudden pinch as she tightened the loop. As she reached for the machine's power switch, Leo braced himself.

It didn't hurt. He felt a soft throbbing at the root of his cock and deep inside his ass. A peculiar sensation, but not entirely uncomfortable.

"At lower intensities, electric stimulation produces an effect comparable to a massage," Inga lectured.

It was certainly producing an effect, alright. It felt as if an invisible hand was gripping his dick and rhythmically squeezing it, teasing it out of hiding. Past his spread legs he saw the eyes of the lionesses watching him. A part of him felt burning embarrassment at being exposed like this, another part found it thrilling. He was securely restrained and had no way of covering himself up, so he tried to let himself relax.

Inga squeezed the tip of his penis between two fingers of her gloved hand, as if holding a dead fish, and lifted it up slightly. "As you can see, mild electrical stimulation of the genital area can induce an erection," Inga narrated while she loosened the wire loop, shifted it midway up his shaft, and retightened it there. She turned a dial and electricity hit him again.

It wasn't painful this time. The current gripped him from the very tip of his penis down to the base of his sheath. A buzz or a vibration, like something constantly crawling up his dick. A pressure began mounting in his loin but the belts and straps held against his weak attempts to thrust with his hips. Leo's breathing became heavier. Through half closed eyes, he watched the lionesses watch him back, his throbbing dick on full display. Somehow this gentler stimulation of his intimate parts made him feel more vulnerable, more seen. He found solace in the restraints, for by taking away his physical freedom, they granted him the emotional liberty to let go. His hips spasmed but the stimulation wasn't enough to bring him anywhere close to the edge yet. The lynx was observing him with an intent yet blank, dispassionate expression. As his spasms and thrusts became more regular, she turned the tension up on the machine. Leo strained with his whole body. That crawling feeling was now like an iron fist squeezing his cock tight and jerking it roughly and unrelentingly.

Leo's legs trembled as he writhed in his restraint. He snorted air from his nostrils and slobbered through his gag. The pressure was building quicker and quicker, a tightness in his crotch that all of a sudden climbed up his dick and he exploded. He bucked his hips with all his might, ropes of cum erupting from his cock, spasm after spasm until he was spent and groaning mindlessly.

He hadn't even noticed the electricity switching off when Inga spoke once more. "A sexual climax at the turn of a dial. A set of electrodes designed for female anatomy is also included. A private demonstration can be arranged for those curious."

There was quiet murmuring among the crowd. Inga removed the wire loop from around Leo's dick and, slowly and considerately, pulled the second one from his ass. Turning back to the crowd, she said, "Though I have only demonstrated a fraction of the machine's features, I hope I have impressed you nonetheless. If you decide to purchase it, we will throw in a spare part kit and a comprehensive instruction manual."

"Your inventions never cease to astonish me," the Queen said. "Whether we have any use for this particular one, I leave to Mahiri."

"Indeed, it is an excellent machine," Mahiri said. The tone of her voice was flat but her eyes burned with hunger. "But it does nothing I cannot already do without the help of mechanical contrivances. There are better uses for the Queen's gold."

"I'm sure we can find a mutually agreeable price point," Inga said.

"First I will have to take you up on that offer of a private demonstration." Mahiri turned towards the audience. "The event is concluded. Imara, you don't mind taking care of your trainee here?"

The Queen stood from her makeshift throne and walked away. Her lion retinue followed her, as did the the lionesses except for Imara. Inga closed up the machine's lid and pushed the trolley out of the room, trotting after Mahiri.

Imara walked up to Leo and gave him a look from head to toe. From a small table next to him, she took a rag, wetted it in a bowl and began scrubbing him clean. She wiped down his belly, the water freezing cold on the thinly furred skin. She squeezed his sheath to express the tip of his penis and swabbed it as well. Such rough treatment of his oversensitive glans made his hips spasm and a groan escaped his throat. Imara paid his discomfort no heed and continued past what was reasonably needed to clean him. She put his cock cage back on, then leaning over Leo and burying his muzzle between her breasts, reached behind his head to undo the straps of his gag.

Free of the gag, Leo stretched his aching jaw.

"What do we say?" Imara asked.

"Thank you, Mistress."

Imara nodded. "You made a good test subject. I've no doubt Mahiri will haggle a fair price for the machine. I could practically smell her getting hot from where I sat."

"I'm glad I was of service," Leo said without much thought, surprising himself in how much he actually meant it.

"Very good." Imara released Leo's left arm from the restraints. "And you will be of service again when I need someone to practice on. I mustn't let myself fall behind the times."

Leo wasn't sure if he liked the sound of that. Of all the things done to him so far, this was possibly the least pleasant, ranking up there with the time Imara had caned his ass raw. The last part with the electric orgasm wasn't too bad, though, he wouldn't mind more of that.

Imara released his remaining bindings but Leo stayed put. Not getting up without permission had been the very first lesson he'd learned.

"Take your loincloth. I am taking you back to the male quarters. You are relieved for the rest of the day."

Leo got off the table and bent down to grab the garment, but--noting Imara's exact wording--did not put it on. He hadn't yet earned the privilege of clothing when not explicitly granted permission.

She escorted him back to the male quarters.

Leo made himself supper and enjoyed a chat with the other lions in the dining hall. They were keen to hear him describe his ordeal in the dungeon. Leo thought he could pick out the listeners who were under Mahiri's watch by their mildly terrified expressions. They knew what awaited them in the near future. As daylight waned, someone went around the hall lighting up tallow lamps. Bantering with the other lions in the warm, flickering lamplight felt cozy, nostalgic even.

Later in the night, a wave of contagious yawns signaled it was time for Leo to retire to his room. He had it to himself. After Imara's reprimand, Tamu had been going out a lot more, to the degree that Leo barely saw him anymore. He flopped down onto his bed. Soon he too might be spending his nights elsewhere. If Imara was serious about Rufus, she'd probably want Leo off her hands as soon as possible.

Morning came and Leo made himself breakfast. He milled about the dining hall and even tried lifting some weights in the training room. He watched longingly as other lions went outside to enjoy the freedom of the castle. Noon came and went but Imara did not come to get him. From a second story window he saw the lynxes walking away from the court hall with a chest held between them in carrying poles. From how the poles bent, it had to be a lot of gold. But still no Imara.

An hour or two passed until someone came for him, but it was Mahiri. She curtly ordered him to follow and led him to the Queen's palace. They passed through the vacant court hall. Leo looked around him, his tail beginning to lash. Something was amiss. They went entered a waiting room where Imara sat on a bench. She did not react to him, nor did Mahiri slow down. She continued to the Queen's personal audience chamber. It was dimly lit but luxuriously decorated with colorful tapestries, velvet upholstered sofas, and a smaller but even more ornate throne of carved acacia upon which Madini sat.

Leo's mouth was dry as Mahiri prodded for him to get to his knees before the Queen.

"Leo, was it? Imara's current trainee?" the Queen said. He nodded. "I am going to ask you some questions. I understand you may feel a conflict of loyalties but if you ever hope to graduate, remember that your loyalty is first and foremost to the pride, not your Mistress."

"Y--Yes, my Queen," Leo said.

"Were you with Imara while she negotiated with the commissioner?"

"I was."

"Did she agree to the trade of slaves, or whatever euphemism the northerners use?"

"No," Leo said. The Queen gave him a sharp glare. Leo looked down and gathered his thoughts. "Not as such... many times Imara insisted that we are not interested. Elva then offered the male lynx for free. Only after listening to his story did she decide to accept the... gift. She made no promise of any further trade."

"What made her change her mind?"

"She said she felt sympathy for the lynx who had lost everything in his homeland."

Mahiri scoffed. "What a laugh."

The Queen gave a small shake of her head. "No, I actually find that somewhat plausible. Believe it or not, our Imara has a soft spot for the forsaken. Was that all she said?"

"Yes, my Queen." Leo couldn't bring himself to repeat her words about the commissioner or, worse yet, her absurd competition with Mahiri.

"Hmm. Bring her back in."

Mahiri went to the door and returned with Imara. She went down on one knee next to Leo, in front of the throne. "My Queen," Imara said, her eyes downcast.

"Imara. Given your years of exemplary service and unquestionable loyalty to this pride, I am willing to give you the benefit of the doubt. I believe your intentions were honorable and you thought accepting this 'gift' was justifiable." Leo kept a close eye on Imara. He thought he could detect the slightest twitch in the corner of her mouth--the same tell he'd seen many times on the faces of princes who had just gotten away with something they really shouldn't have. In turn, Mahiri's eyes were wide and the insides of her ears turning bright red. "That said," the Queen continued, "You've put me in a difficult position. You've established precedent. When the traders return and demand payment in souls, how will I be able to refuse?"

Imara bowed her head deeply. "I overstepped my remit and for that I humbly apologize." She gave her upper lip a quick lick. "What's done is done, but perhaps we should use this as an opportunity to re-evaluate our relations with the Trading Company. They have shown their stripes. We mustn't let ourselves become dependent on them or they will take everything from us."

"The decision is not yours to make. I will be lenient and not demote you for this overreach, but neither will I turn a blind eye." The Queen turned towards Mahiri. "Schedule a disciplinary session with Imara at your earliest convenience. I trust in your professional judgement to choose an appropriate punishment to remind her of her station."

Mahiri's scowl instantly melted away, replaced by a smug, satisfied grin. "Of course, my Queen. You can count on me."

Not even a whisker twitched on Imara's muzzle as she heard this.

"I hope you will take your lesson to heart and there will be no cause for me to summon you again. You are dismissed," the Queen said.

Imara bowed and stood. Leo followed her out.

As they entered the vacant court room, Imara asked, "Does it disturb you to see that even I am not above reproach?"

"A little," Leo admitted.

"I overstepped my authority, and for that, I shall face the punishment I was prepared to accept. But it was the right thing to do. In time, I will be vindicated."

"Of course, Mistress," Leo said. He truly hoped it was true.