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Virtually Real Part 6: Getting Carried Away

*For unredacted version DM me

Dr. Enrique entered the room slowly guiding Evan. "There is a chair in front of you. Move to the right. Good, now move forward, stop. Turn ninety degrees to your right, shuffle back until your legs make contact and sit."

Evan eased himself into the chair, not an easy task with the hobbles, cuffs, and collar all chained together.

"Where's the key for the locks?" I asked.

"We receive those once all the stasis pods are empty and reloaded on the delivery truck."

Evan turned his head toward the Doctor, "Pods?"

"Is this room secure?" I quickly asked.

The Doctor stopped at the doorway and flipped a switch on the communication panel. "It is now, no signals in or out, I'm starting on the next one." He said, as he left.

"Evan, I'm sure you recognize my voice. I know you can't see because of coming out of stasis but, for now, we're completely alone. First off, I need you to be completely honest with me. As your Master my primary rule is that you can't lie to me, even if you think the truth will make me angry. Do you understand?"

"Yes, Master."

"You may refer to me as, Sir. Now, this may make you angry, but all of my slaves are pleasure slaves. Do you understand what that means?"

"From my limited knowledge of the subject it means that, while sex is a major component, you care about your slave's feelings and treat them as individuals rather than objects or property."

"That's right. Normally my tastes, of late, have run toward young males mostly teenage and younger. Do you have a problem with that?"

"I- I don't think it's right, but it's not my place to object."

"Well, there was something about you that I found appealing that is why I purchased you. Now for a harder question, if I wanted you to have sex with a cub, and the cub didn't object, would you have a problem with that?"

"I, don't know."

"How about if the cub was your son?"

"What?" He asked, jerking suddenly.

"Another thing I enjoy is watching related males enjoy one another, and since I bought your son Leo, you will be having sex with him. In fact from now on you will consider him your mate."

"I don't understand."

"What's to understand? I've actually bought all of your cubs and you'll be experiencing sex with each of them, both giving and receiving. However, Leo will be your primary partner. Though the sexual part may be hard to accept, at first, at least it means you and your family will remain together. So do you think you can accept this new reality?"

"It might take me a long time, if ever, to be comfortable with it. However, if it's the only way we can all remain a family, I'll try."

"Another thing, how old are you? Your profile said 67."

"I get that a lot. I'm 41 but raising six hyperactive boys, mostly on my own, has made me look . . . older."

"Have you ever had any romantic feelings or contact with another male?"

"I'll admit to the odd fantasy once in a while, when I was younger, but never any contact. Still, in the last few years I've been considering the possibilities considering my . . . problem."

I paused considering how he must feel. I'd done a bit of research on this realm and found that contraception was only handled through “modification" or complete abstinence. I shook my head and continued. "Now about clothing. On my private estate the only ones that wear clothing are the staff and myself so you will be nude, other than your collar, most of the time."

"That will be easier getting used to. When working out or during the hottest months we'd often only wear shorts. Though it wasn't unusual to see others with only their fur."

"You also need to know, while my estate has some modern amenities, it and most of my slaves are from a pre-industrial society. You and your sons are going to have a lot of culture shock to deal with. Another thing is the fact that most of my slaves can be freed and return to their former lives after ten years of service. Unfortunately you and your sons have lifetime clauses. You and Leo because you can sire hybrids with any species, and your hybrids because they are seen as abominations."

"I figured as much. Still you haven't even asked about how I became a slave."

"Leo told me a few things, like your second wife returning and taking everything you owned. I chalked it up to a gold digger making false accusations."

"Oh, I didn't think they knew."

I was rather surprised as he started to cry. Such a strong looking lion reduced to tears wasn't something I'd planned on dealing with. "Cubs often know more than they let on to their parents. I'm not sure about the others but Leo seemed less concerned about himself and more about your reaction to the charges." I leaned forward to wipe the tears away and he flinched backward. “How is your vision? From your reaction it seems to be improving."

"It's as good as can be expected without my glasses."

I scowled. "Of course, no one mentioned that you needed glasses." I growled. If it wasn't for the fact I didn't want to stir up any more trouble I'd go out and throttle the Lynx for such an oversight. “When we get to my estate I'll have your eyes corrected so you don't glasses anymore." I tilted my head slightly as I imagined Evan wearing glasses. “That's only if you want the modification. Now that I think about it glasses could only make you more attractive."

“I thought you said your tastes run toward cubs not old males like myself?"

“I thought so as well, now I'm thinking perhaps my tastes run toward having an age gap between myself and my partners. It's something I hadn't considered before." I leaned back and thought about it. If I were ever to step back out into the real world again there really wasn't anyone-“. My chest felt tight and the edges of my vision started to blur. I'd crossed the line and I knew the panic attack was coming.

“Master, focus on the sound of my voice. Breathe in. You're safe, just stay here with me. Nothing is going to happen to you. Breath out." He smiled as I slowly looked up at him. “You'll be alright now."

“How did you?"

“I used to be a teacher and I have six cubs. After dealing one or two episodes it isn't difficult to recognize the signs of a panic attack. If you don't mind my asking, what triggered it? I don't want to be the cause off any future attacks."

“It isn't you. Well, not directly. There are parts of my past that are better left there." I shook my head forcing down my feelings and my memories and returned to the story at hand. “Now, I know my next order is going to be extremely difficult to follow, but I want you to be completely silent as I speak with Leo."

"Of course, Sir."

I watched him try to settle back with all the shackles. He was fit, really fit he had to work out on a regular basis. No one's genes alone could sculpt a body like that. "Damn, it's going to be difficult waiting to get home. I almost can't wait to feel your arms around me or getting to feast on your overly virile cum. Don't look so surprised, just because I'm your master doesn't mean there won't be nights where you fall asleep with your cock deep in my ass and your arms around me." I laughed at the effect my words had. “You may not have thought much about males before, but the tent in your pants shows me just how much you're considering it now."

"Mr. Traveler, I'm bringing in the second one now." Dr. Enrique said, as he cracked the door open.

I quickly leaned forward pressing my finger to Evan's muzzle reminding him to remain silent. I got up and walked to the recovery room door. I finished opening it and Leo stepped through. "I`ll take him from here Doctor, you can start on the Bear hybrid next."

Dr. Enrique nodded and stepped back allowing the door to slide shut.

"Hello again, Leo. I'm sure you recognize my voice. You're blind at the moment due to the stasis pod you were transported in. I'm going to lead you to a seat next to your new mate."

"Mate?" he asked in obvious confusion.

"Yes, I try to buy slaves in sets so that they will have a mate. Though you should also know I only purchase males. Do you have a problem with that?"

"No! As you know, in my family any sex with a female of any species leads to a child. We, my brothers and myself, kept an open mind about having male partners to avoid an unwanted, situation. Though, I must admit I've never really put much thought into a long term relationship with a single mate."

"Have you ever kissed another male?"

"Actually I've kissed both males and females. To answer most of your other sex related questions, I've had both oral and anal sex with both males and females, giving and receiving."

I was rather surprised at how open Leo was about the topic as I maneuvered him to the couch. "OK, we're in position slowly sit down. So, which did you prefer?"

"They all have their high points, but I found giving oral sex to a female the least enjoyable. It just seemed like a lot of work for very little reward. Maybe I just had the wrong partner."

"What was the most enjoyable?"

“Are you ordering me to answer? Because I'd, uh, rather keep that memory just for myself."

I grinned, so he did have some limits to his openness. “No, I'm not going to force you to tell me something like that. I want you to turn your head to the right, and tilt it back so your mate can kiss you. It's his first time kissing another male so try to make it memorable for him."

Evan gave me a pitiful look, but I pointed to Leo making it obvious the kiss was an order. He leaned to his left and locked muzzles with his son. Leo seemed hesitant at first but he almost immediately started to murr and a wet spot was forming on the tent in his pants. They broke apart and Evan gasped while Leo licked the saliva from his lips.

"God, I can't even tell you how often I've fantasized about being able to do that. Oh Dad, knowing that I get to be the first male you'll ever be with and that we are going to be mates is even beyond my wildest dreams. Bruin and Race told me to either find a mate of my own because you'd never-" Leo snapped his jaws shut, and I could tell Evan was desperate to say something.

I just sat there in shock. This was a possibility I hadn't considered. I'd even prepared myself for a long explanation trying to convince Leo it wouldn't be as bad as he might imagine. "I'm not sure what your father wants to say first, but I'm betting it is more than 'how did you know'. The thing is I ordered him to remain silent and he is doing an extraordinary job under the circumstances." I said trying to regather my thoughts.

"I knew because of his scent of course. It's not like I wouldn't recognize it."

I just shook my head. "Alright, my first and most important rule is that you don't lie to me. With that said, I want you to answer this question: Do you sneak into your father's room, steal his dirty sweaty underwear, and then masturbate while sniffing them?"

He let out a pathetic mewl, "No. I'd slip them out of the laundry hamper on wash day, replacing them with a clean pair so that I could enjoy them longer."

"Evan, you have permission to speak freely."

"Leo, that is disgusting."

That wasn't what I'd been expecting. Leo looked hurt and on the verge of tears. I was about to interrupt when Evan continued.

"You really should have swiped them when they were fresh rather than waiting until wash day. So, you really find my scent that arousing?"

"Dad, I'd be happy if I spent the rest of my life with my nose between your legs."

"Why don't you show me how much you love me, you wonderful, dirty little crotch sniffer."

"That's enough." I quickly ordered. “Much more of this and you're going to make me ruin my outfit. Save it for when we get home. Leo, you seem to be the talkative type, since I bought all of your brothers as well, why don't you tell me how they should be paired up."

"Oh, that's easy. Bruin and Race are already a couple. I can't tell you the number of times I've been worried that Dad would come home and catch Mark and Carl tied together, and I don't mean with rope. Of course that leaves Rick and Justin. They are just starting a bit of exploring with each other. I'm not sure if Dad has given them 'the talk' yet. As far as I know they haven't gotten past a little bit of touching. Really I was the odd one out, but I always knew what I wanted."

"Sir, I think, maybe I'll be getting comfortable with everything you've told me, and a lot sooner than I'd have imagined." Evan stated as he took a long sniff of Leo's developing mane.

"Leo, for a second I'd considered helping you move. Now, however I think it is probably best if you remain seated since I don't want you making a mess before we leave. But, once we are home the first thing I want you to do is strip off your clothes, tear off all of your mate's clothes except his underwear, slide your face in the leg hole, and then worship his balls surrounded by his musk until you blow hands free. Do you think you can do that?"

I smiled as Leo nodded and panted like he couldn't catch his breath. Evan, on the other hand, had a faraway look and a wet spot growing on his own tented pants.

"Good, now you both need to remain silent since this will be the first time I meet the rest of your family."

The door slid open and the Doctor led the lion/bear hybrid into the room.

"I've gotten things organized so the rest of your slaves will be arriving in a much more timely fashion."

“Good, the otter should be next and then the older wolf and lion at the same time or as close as you can get them. Then the joey and finally the younger wolf hybrid would be the best order to bring them in."

"I can do that. You seem to be doing an admirable job at keeping things civil in here. I'll also let you know the moment your cougar has recovered enough to rejoin you. I'll give you the lynx and collie last, but they will remain sedated until you've left the clinic."

I stood up again, crossed the room, and took the bear by his upper arm. "Thank you Doctor. Bruin, I am your new Master and as you've just heard you're not the only one I've purchased today. Now if you start walking I'll guide you to a seat where you can rest and wait for your eyesight to return while we talk."

"Are the other's, uh, like me?"

"I don't see as it matters much, but yes several of them are hybrids."

"Oh, I was just hoping that they might be my brothers."

"It's a possibility, but I should tell you that I've chosen the otter to be your mate."

"Is he an otter/lion hybrid? Because if he is then you need to know that he's my brother." I helped him sit across from Evan and Leo.

"Will it be a problem for you if he is your brother and your mate?"

"Uh-"

"Don't lie to me that is the most important rule I have.

*Redacted*

"So, since we're getting to know each other is there anything you'd like to ask or tell me?"

"What other rules do I need to know about?"

"Hm, well there's the fact that you'll be spending most of your time naked. All of my slaves are equals and have the right to say “no" to anyone other than myself. You will have opportunities to improve your education, though coming from an advanced civilization and being older you may already be better educated than most of my slaves, so you will be expected to tutor the younger cubs as well as focus on trade skills. As for actual rules, there is only the one until an issue comes up that requires an actual rule to be made."

"You don't sound like any master I've heard or read about."

"Thank you, it's my belief that slaves are better behaved and loyal when treated with respect and care."

"Mr. Traveler, I've got your otter." The Doctor said, as he pushed Race into the room.

"That was quick."

"I told you everything is running smoothly now. Really the only thing slowing the process down are the delivery men removing the empty stasis chambers." The Doctor immediately turned and walked back through the doorway.

"Hello Race, I'm your new master. I'm going to help you to a seat next to your mate. I believe you already know him."

"I doubt it, we were kept in isolated cells at the auction house."

"Race, Master says we're never allowed to lie to him."

"Bruin, is that you?" The otter's downcast demeanor immediately changed and he nearly bounce out of my grip in order to get to Bruin.

"Of course it's me, who else would be willing to mate with an abomination like you?"

"Just about any other otter in the universe I'd imagine. I'm just glad we ended up together with a master that will allow us to be mates." As I guided him down to the seat he snuggled up to the bear despite the shackles.

"Yes, you are fortunate." I said as I walked back over to the door. At this pace sitting down seemed ridiculous so I leaned against the wall. “I can only imagine the outcome, considering the way some individuals are so violently against your sexual preferences."

"Master, if I'm allowed to ask, how did you know about our relationship?" Race asked.

"You are always allowed to ask questions. But I don't think I'm the one that should answer that." I pointed at Leo and nodded.

"I told Master about our relationships."

Bruin jerked upright rattling his chains. "Leo! Have you been here, the whole time?"

"Of course, and I resent the fact that you think I can't keep my muzzle shut. I never told Dad how I really felt."

"You've never been silent that long. Even Dad couldn't keep you quite." Bruin tried to defend his assertion.

"That's not entirely true, Bru. He was relatively quiet when he was hiding in his room with Dad's underwear practically crammed up his nose. Oh, I hope I didn't say something you would be too embarrassed to tell our new Master about." Race snickered.

I rolled my eyes at the ineffective jab, "Race, I think someone, besides Leo, might have a comment about that." I pointed at Evan.

"Actually, Master figured that out on his own."

"Dad!" The shocked look on both Race and Bruin's faces was priceless.

*Redacted*

"I'm sorry, Sir."

"Here are the next two." Dr. Enrique said as he opened the door. He sniffed as he looked around the room. He face palmed. “No blood, but I'm still going to have to redecorate the waiting room." He muttered, as he pulled the door shut.

I looked around the small waiting room. Three small couches in a "U" shape and two of them already nearly full with just the four. I was going to run out of places to sit by the time Ghost arrived.

"I want you both to walk with me as best you can. I'm moving you over to a couch where you can both sit down. I know it's difficult but I'll get the chains off as soon as I possibly can."

"That's a-"

"-relief."

I turned toward Carl who was slowly sitting down. "Do you always complete Mark's sentences?"

"No, I can also start-"

"-sentences that I finish."

It was my turn to face palm. "That's going to get annoying really fast. Leo, you're the most talkative one, have they ever completed a sentence on their own?"

"Yeah, if one word sentences count. I've also heard them using complete sentences when they're angry, fighting, or fu-"

"Leo!" Mark yelled.

"Don't tell him that!" Carl added.

"See what I mean?" Leo said, with a laugh.

“Most people get used to it, eventually. Evan pointed out.

"Mr. Traveler, I need to speak with you in private for a moment." The Doctor said reopening the door.

I nodded. "Evan, please bring the twins up to speed and do your best to convince them of the importance of proper communication skills now that I am their master." I stepped out of the room with Dr. Enrique.

"Your cougar is awake, though still a bit groggy, and is getting dressed. Do you want him with you, or to wait until I've finished reviving the rest of your purchases?"

"He can go back in with me."

"Very well. I need to inform you that the youngest hybrid, the coywolf, isn't related to the old lion. I wasn't sure if you were aware of that fact or not. Just in case, I ran the genetic profile three separate times. He does share the same wolf mother as the twins, however."

"Coywolf, so his biological father was a coyote?"

"That's right, but I also found that his fur color and pattern had been modified prior to birth so that he would appear to be the lion's son like all the others. It wasn't a very elegant job and he has a few genetic defects do to that. I can correct the problems rather easily-"

"But it's going to cost me extra, go ahead and do your best. Thank you for letting me know. Now do you happen to have an extra chair I can take back in with me?"

"Of course, I'll grab one when I retrieve Ghost, just wait here a moment."

I leaned against the wall observing the four remaining pods. The kangaroo and coywolf weren't a surprise the collie and lynx on the other hand were a bit different. The collie's fringe fur on his arms and legs was pink and the end of his tail was purple with a pink tip. His hair that fell over one eye and was pink tipped with purple. The lynx had purple ear tufts, pink cheek ruffs, his hair that was combed over the opposite eye than the collie and was purple tipped with pink. He also had pink and purple spots under his eyes. I realized with a start that it was the same shades as the twin tiger's stripes had been changed to. I smiled and started to imagine what other areas were pink and purple under their clothes when the Doctor returned. "Hey Ghost, how do you feel?"

*Redacted*

I considered for a moment and then nodded giving him all the permission he needed. "Thank you Doctor, please bring in the kangaroo when he is ready. Come on Ghost, time for you to meet the newest additions to the family." I took ahold of the chair and headed back into the waiting room. I started with the couch on the right. "Ghost, this is Race, Bruin, Mark, Carl, Leo and their father Evan. Everyone, this is Ghost. He is the reason I am here today and by extension why you get to remain together as a family."

"Hello Ghost, why did you need to visit the doctor?" Leo asked.

"I-" He turned his head and partially hid behind me.

"Just after he was born his parents decided to have him modified. After I bought him he expressed an interest in being whole again so I paid for his reconstructive surgery."

*Redacted*

"Your roo is ready, and I figured you were going to need this." Dr. Enrique handed me a bottle of scent neutralizer as I stood up.

I took the aerosol can and immediately sprayed around myself and then around Ghost. Then I took Rick by the arm and looked at the full seats. I led him to the couch with Evan and Leo. "Leo, slide over."

I was actually surprised that he could get any closer to Evan but he did. "The other way, you're getting a bit intoxicated where you're at." I spayed Evan with the neutralizer and then around Leo's head. He looked stricken and on the verge of tears. “Don't worry it's only temporary." He slid to the opposite side of the couch and I helped Rick sit down.

"There, now I know you can't see but your vision will return soon and you are safely nestled between your brother Leo and your father."

"Dad?"

"I'm right here."

"What's going on? I was in class when I was called to the office. There were two officials there and one poked me with a needle. The next thing I know is I'm waking up in a small room where they told me I was being sold as a slave and then after some time waiting I must have fallen asleep because I woke up here."

"Mom got us all turned into slaves by telling an official-"

"-that Dad was coercing students to have sex with him and us."

"You two are here? If it was Allura I'd have thought she would at least spare her own sons."

"Spare us? We were the last ones taken just so that she could gloat." Carl snarled.

"Even I thought she'd save Carl since he looked like a wolf but she ranted about how she hated all of us especially Carl and me because we ruined her." Mark growled.

"What about Justin? He's more wolf than anything else. Surly she didn't make him a slave?"

"Both Mark and I asked her but she called him a worthless mutt and refused to say anything else. I think she sold him as well." Carl said, looking a bit upset. “Out of all of us he least deserves this."

"On that topic, Evan, when we have a bit of privacy later there is something I need to discuss with you."

"If it's about Justin not being my biological son, it's something I've suspected that for a long time."

"Justin also thinks that it true." Rick jerked his hands up as if he was going to cover his muzzle, but the chains hadn't stopped him. "Oh, I wasn't supposed to say that."

"Here is your next one. Now I just need to bring the last two out of stasis and you can leave."

"Not without the keys for all of these cuffs, collars, and chains. I have my own smart fabric collars for my slaves so be sure to get all the keys."

Dr. Enrique sighed. "The collars are permanent and they don't have keys."

"Do they have any internal devices, like bombs, I should be worried about?" I asked in concern.

"No, just an imbedded tracker."

"What are they made of?"

"Titanium, of course."

"That may be a problem, but I'll deal with it later. Justin, I know you can't see right now, but it is only temporary. Stand here for a moment."

I walked over and had Leo stand up. I helped him shuffle over and sit between Carl and Mark. Then I helped Rick slide over so that Justin would be sitting next to Evan. I turned back toward Justin to discover he had started to cry. "Don't worry things aren't as bad as they seem. Here, sit down and get comfortable. Now what's wrong?"

He just sniffled more.

"It's alright, our master bought all of us so we could be together." Evan said, as he hugged Justin.

"It's not okay, Mom . . . Allura said-"

"I don't care what she said. She was being cruel and just trying to hurt us as much as possible."

"I guarantee that she won't be hurting you or your family ever again."

"Mr. Traveler, the final two slaves are out of the stasis pods and I have your keys. Are you ready to leave?"

"As ready as I'm going to get. Bring in Aaron and Isaac."

The door slid open and Dr. Enrique pushed in a hover cart with both boys on it.

"Just leave the keys on the sled and lock down the room. I'll transport everyone out from here once I get the chains off."

The Doctor dropped a ring with a single key on the table and quickly exited the room.

"You have a transporter system?" Evan asked.

"In a manner of speaking, it's just easier to explain than telling people that I'm opening a portal to another universe." I unlocked and removed Evan's chains then opened the portal. "Ghost, go ahead, but wait by the portal until house appears to escort you up to my room. Since your heat is coming on you're going to need protection."

"Yes, Sir."

Ghost was up and through the portal in a flash.

"Evan, you're next, but I need you to carry the collie with you. Once through I need you to step away from the opening and wait for the rest of us."

"Would you like me to carry the lynx as well?" he asked as he easily lifted Isaac.

"If it isn't a burden."

He laughed and easily draped a cub over each shoulder and stepped through the portal.

Next I unlocked Leo and Justin, "Leo, I'm reversing my order for what you are supposed to do when we get to my estate. Don't complain, we'll get to the fun. Unfortunately I'm going to have to get some help to remove your bulky collars and it will be less traumatic for everyone if you remain clothed. Justin, I know you still can't see but Leo can and he is going to help you through the portal."

I watched as they stepped through and then started unlocking Rick's chains. "Can you see yet, or do you need help as well?"

"Everything is still just a bright blur, so I'm going to need help."

I moved to Bruin next.

"I guess that means I'm helping Rick then?"

"That's right, hurry through while I keep removing chains the portal can't stay open for extended periods."

I immediately moved on to Race's chains. "Carl, how is your sight?"

"It's still a little blurry but-"

"-we shouldn't have any problems." Mark finished.

"Good, Race go ahead and Carl you can follow as soon as I get this last cuff off."

I moved on to Mark's chains.

"You're not worried that they might ambush you when we go through the portal?" Carl asked as he waited for Mark.

"Not really, House will be ready to stop any action against me as well as shifting where the portal will let us out. Now come on before the portal closes."

I gathered up all the chains and cuffs and followed the two of them through the portal to the front yard as I had expected. I was happy to see that there wasn't an ambush waiting for me. Instead Evan was helping Aaron to sit up while Isaac was laying on the grass blinking his eyes. The others were either staring at the house or trying to keep out of the way until their vision retuned. I dropped the chains and cuffs in a pile.

"I want all of you to sit here on the lawn until I get back. I'm going to get someone who can, hopefully, remove those unsightly metal collars. Evan, I expect you to be sure everyone is on their best behavior. The individual I'm going to be asking a favor from isn't exactly sociable. Leo, since you're likely the most recovered from the stasis pods you'll be coming with me."

"Is there anything special I need to know, Sir?"

"Just be quiet and respectful. Master Smith Lark has little patience for cubs, and even less for slaves. I hope we catch him in a bad mood. He'll take an immediate interest in your collar since titanium isn't a metal he'll be familiar with."

"You want to meet with him if he's in a bad mood?" Evan asked.

"Trust me, bad is the best we can hope for. House, I need a portal to the Smithy."

We stepped through and Leo glanced around in confusion, "Shouldn't a blacksmith's shop be located near the edge of a town?"

"The Smith's Guild is but Master Lark values his privacy. Now, no more questions."

The front of the shop was closed up, not that I didn't expect as much, and I could hear the rhythmic pounding of hammer on iron from the back. We slowly made our way around the building. In the back an old bull elephant was swinging a massive hammer. His tusks had been sawed off and the ends were covered with short iron caps. He was wearing a heavy apron and nothing else. We stood where he could easily see us but we didn't interrupt. After several minutes of continued pounding he shoved the iron bar back into the forge and turned on us.

"What the hell do you want? Can't you see the shop is closed and I'm busy? If you need some frippery forged go to the guild hall."

"Master Smith, I have a problem that only you might be able to help me with."

"MIGHT! I'll have you know I am the best there is in all the land."

"I know, but my problem is caused by a metal not from this realm."

I stepped back pulling Leo behind me as Master Lark nearly stampeded toward us.

"A new rare metal? I must see it!"

I shuddered, as far as I knew no one had seen Master Lark smile, but he was now. I had Leo move forward.

"I need this bulky collar removed so I can replace it with one of my own. However I was told that it wasn't possible to remove a titanium collar."

"Titanium." His trunk curled and reached out to touch the collar. “I like the taste of the word, a metal of the gods to be sure."

"If you can remove it, without damaging my slave you can have the metal."

"Hmm, not much there," he caressed the metal with his trunk, "but it is very strong."

If it can be removed I have nine more collars plus chains, shackles, and cuffs that were removable and as I said all the metal is yours."

He continued running his trunk around the collar. "Hmm, there's a weak point here."

"That's likely where the tracking device was inserted. It isn't of much value to me in this realm."

"I may be able to extract some base minerals from it. Though this is definitely the spot to break."

Leo yelped, as a loud snap came from the collar. Master Lark moved behind Leo and carefully took the collar in his hands.

"Now I just coax the metal into thinkin' it's malleable and pull it open."

I quickly slipped Leo's new collar into place.

"One down and nine to go. Shall I bring them here or do you want to come to my estate?"

Master Lark retrieved a large canvas bag, placing the collar inside. "I'll come with you, no need to go flashing such a rare thing on the roads where it could get stolen."

I nodded and opened a portal.

"Oh, you must be Lord Lightstripe, my grandson Little Reny keeps going on about."

I couldn't imagine Sir Ren as little. "Uh, yeah, I am indeed Lord Lightstripe.

We stepped through the portal and Master Lark quickly removed all the titanium collars. He was so efficient that I was barely able to keep up with the replacement smart cloth collars. As I finished I noticed that he'd already stuffed the chains and cuffs in his bag.

"Thank you, Lord Lightstripe. It isn't often I find something new to contemplate but with this new metal you've made me a very happy Smith. Now if you'll please send me back to my forge I'd like to spend some quality time getting to know this, Titanium."

"House, re-open the portal to the forge."

Master Lark nodded and disappeared, through the portal, without another word. I turned back to my new slaves. "Now then, I know I've repeated this multiple times but my most important rule is that you are not allowed to lie to me. From now on you are pleasure slaves, but you have the right to refuse sexual advances from everyone except me. Everyone here is an equal except for Evan. I expect him to remain the father figure to his cubs, paternal overseer to all the others, and he will be tasked with assisting House with teaching duties." Evan just looked at me in shock.

"Master, you've referred to the house several times as though it is a person's name. Can you please clarify who House is?" Leo asked.

"I am House, the guardian of this small realm, as well as the metaphysical manifestation of the house in which you will be living. If it is easier for you, think of me as an advanced artificial intelligence. It is my job to maintain the physical house and grounds, prepare meals, teach everyone the skills Master Lightstripe orders or they show an interest in, and provide stimulating recreational outlets for my inhabitants."

"That, Leo, is House. Now, where was I?"

"Either you were going to explain about pairing them up or you were about to have them begin the physical orientation. Either way I'm going to have the rest of your 'family' assemble at the fountain while I make some adjustments." House disappeared as quickly as he had appeared.

"As I was saying, when I get new slaves I try to do so in pairs. This is so that I can put them together as mates. Evan and Leo, Bruin and Race, Mark and Carl, Rick and Justin, Aaron and Isaac."

"Sir?"

"Yes, Rick?"

*Redacted*

"Yes, Sir."

Leo was already hard and I watched a string of pre-cum shoot out at my order to House. I finished removing my own clothes and pulled on a robe, not bothering to tie it closed.

"Evan, your mate seems to be overly pent up. I don't want this problem to turn into an orgy. So I you two to remain here and take care of the problem and then join us by the fountain." I pointed to the fountain that seemed rather blurry at the moment, likely due to House redesigning it again. “Everyone else proceed to the fountain I'll join you in a moment after I give these two a few instructions."

Everyone started toward the house and I moved closer to the father and son mates. Leo, get your muzzle down there in your fathers crotch and worship the tools that made you. Evan, you're going to masturbate Leo to completion and then wipe his seed on your cock and balls for him to clean off. When you feel you are clean enough he is to use his mouth to finish you off. When done I expect you to be a good father and lick his face clean before joining us at the fountain."

"Yes, Sir!" Leo said in excitement.

I turned and smirked, as the moan Evan had been trying to suppress, rushed from his throat.

When I reached the fountain I found two separate groups with Bit in the middle closely studying the newer group. Ghost immediately ran toward me.

"Poppa, House gave me this necklace and told me it would mask my scent and then he sent me out here even though you told me to go inside."

"It's alright, you're not in trouble."

"Daddy, I promise I've only been looking but not touching." Bit said as he kept glancing from me back toward the new slaves.

*Redacted*

When we reached the bench Aaron flopped down and Isaac sat on the ground in front of him.

"So, Father sold us into slavery. I bet we're lifers and even if we escape there's no way to go back. Though I have to admit I was surprised to find we both still have our balls."

"You can thank me for that. I prefer my slaves intact."

"Thank you, Master." Isaac whispered.

"I didn't give you permission to speak, dog." Aaron quickly stated.

"If I hear you talk down to your mate like that again I will punish you. Isaac, any rules or orders that anyone has given you in the past are no longer valid. You belong to me now and only my rules apply. Now, why don't you tell me why you two have been made slaves?"

"I've always been a slave, Master. Aaron's father had my mother bred and he decided to keep me and have me raised as a slave for Aaron. I am very well trained and will serve you in all ways you require, Master."

"And why is Aaron here?" I asked glaring at Aaron daring him to say something.

"He has- had political connections, because of his father, and a very popular social media following. He discovered what was going to happen to a couple of hot news items. He was going to report everything but when he went to interview the doctor involved something went wrong."

"Real wrong." Aaron growled. “I need to let my watchers know what has happened to me."

"Sorry, but House doesn't have any data connections for you to hack. Don't try to deny that was what you were planning because then I'd have to severely punish you for lying. Besides, we're not even in your birth universe."

"Don't you care that two people are going to be killed and dissected if I don't get the word out?" Aaron asked.

"Are you so self-centered that you believe you're the only chance they have?" I asked.

"How do you expect me to answer that question? If I say no I'd be lying about the tiger's survival, but if I can't say yes either."

"At least you recognized the trap. For your information an associate of mine is a very good customer of Dr. Enrique, primarily taking him patients that need to be made whole again. The two of them have devised a plan where Altan and Amur will eventually be turned over to me. Uninjured and unaltered, well, unaltered beyond the color of their stripes."

I immediately noticed Isaac hang his head and pull his legs up to his chin.

"Isaac, what's wrong?"

He sniffled and looked away. "Once the twins arrive Master isn't going to want me anymore."

"Let me remind you that Aaron isn't your master, he is your mate, and he isn't going to abandon you for Altan or Amur. Sure he's likely to play around with them, that's the way things work in this realm."

"Sla- Isaac, I'm not going to leave you. Yes, I've been working to free Altan and Amur and I admit that I've fantasized about being with them. However, I doubt they're going to give me a second glance. They've already made it publicly known that they want to try out as many species as possible and they currently prefer canines. If anything you have a better chance with them than I do."

"I- I don't want anyone else, just you."

"What!" The look on Aaron's face confirmed that he'd never even imagined how Isaac really felt.

"Is it so surprising that he has feelings for you?" I asked.

"Yes it is. I- I've never treated him as anything other than a slave. He can't have feeling for me as badly as I've treated him."

*Redacted*

"That's just being a good Master."

"Do you love him?" I asked even though I could tell that he really did have feeling for the pup.

"Of course I love him. I-" Aaron went silent his mouth hanging open in shock at what he admitted.

"I thought as much. Now, why don't you two go join the others and get to know your new family?"

I sat back on the bench and Evan soon joined me. His fur was clean so it seemed Leo was really good with his tongue.

"I thought trying to keep up with seven cubs was difficult. How do you plan on dealing with nineteen cubs and one old lion?"

"Believe it or not, most of them have a better life here with me. For those that can be freed in ten years they'll leave here with an education and the skills to defend themselves. As for the boundless energy, House has semi-permanent portals to 'playground' realms, a large library, theater, game room, dojo, shooting range, swimming pool, and hedge maze.

*Redacted*

Really I'm finding that I'm mostly content with them enjoying each other more than taking care of my desires."

"Shooting range?" Evan asked with obvious concern in his voice.

"Yes, but just because it's there doesn't mean free access to firearms. Unarmed combat training comes first, then progressing through blunt impact, edged, and throwing weapons. Only then can they start on ranged weapons."

"Aren't you afraid one of us will use the training against you?"

*Redacted*

"Sir, I hate to interrupt."

"If anyone has the right to interrupt it's you, House."

"It seems I have outgrown the size of this small island. With your permission I'd like to shift to a new larger area. I already have a location chosen."

"Then what is the problem?"

"I can't change my physical location with everyone here. You are all going to need to leave this realm for a few hours. There is a new 'playground' realm you can enjoy in the meantime."

"Well, if we have no other choice. Everyone, House needs some time to re-configure for our larger number. Therefore we will be going to a new playground realm for a while. I'm going to put you in groups of three to make things easier. Bit, Conner, Shot, Key, Sticks, and Birch step forward. Josh and Chester, you're with Bit. Justin and Rick you are with Conner. Mark and Carl you're with Sticks. Birch you get Mika and Leo. Shot, Bruin, and Race you're the next group. That leaves Key, Aaron and Isaac as a group with Evan and Ghost joining me. Bit, lead us to the underground portal room and through the newest tunnel."

"Everybody follow me." Bit started marching, as though he was leading a parade. I laughed as I realized that comparison was rather apt. He headed toward the side gate that used to be hidden by the hedge maze.

"You're letting the smallest one lead us to a new realm?" Evan asked.

"Bit and Conner have been here the longest and they have the most traveling experience."

"Oh, I'm not questioning their experience or ability. I'm just a bit worried about what might be waiting in the new realm."

"Evan, you're going to scare the cubs. House is very careful about the new realms and there won't be anything dangerous waiting for us. I admit that the realm guardian that we will encounter may be scary but like House they are there for our protection." We'd made it inside and just started down the stairs. "Besides, with Bit in the lead it makes me smile thinking that we're really headed down the rabbit hole."

"I don't understand."

"It's out of a story from my home realm. If you're interested I'm sure House has the book in the library."

"Sir, before you go, Master Evan may need these until things are settled." House, was waiting for us at the entrance to the "escape tunnel" with a pair of glasses.

Evan quickly put them on. "Thank you, House."

"You are most welcome, Master Evan. Now all of you hurry along, I have a lot of work to do."

***

As we moved through the portal it closed behind us. I was a bit surprised at the solid rock but I was careful not to show it. We continued forward, the tunnel lit by glowing moss. At the end we found a staircase that rose into a room completely constructed of bamboo. Benches lined the walls and most of the cubs had taken seats looking out the windows at the heavily falling snow. The room was warm and relaxing with a desk at the back next to the only visible doorway. By this point I had a pretty good idea what this playground was about. As I approached the desk a cloud of mist swept in through the door and coalesced into an androgynous fox wearing a kimono.

"Welcome to our humble hot springs. I am one of this realm's many guardians. We offer mineral baths, massages, and a sauna."

"Aaah, another bath." Conner groaned.

"Conner, show some respect." I ordered

"Yes, daddy."

"I assure you, young one, there is nothing like a nice soak in a warm pool after playing in the snow."

All the younger cubs started bouncing in excitement.

Another smaller fox appeared. Those who wish to play in the snow please follow me."

The room quickly emptied out leaving only Evan, Leo, Race, Bruin, Shot, and myself.

"I've never cared much for snow, it mats up in my fetlocks and is just . . . cold. I'm more interested in the massage." Shot said, as if defending his reason for remaining behind.

"Me too!" Bruin practically yelled.

"The snow might be fun to slide around in, but it seems like ages since I've been fully immersed. Take me to the water." Race said, bouncing from foot to foot.

"A good sweat seems like just the thing to bring Leo and I closer right now, so the sauna seems most appropriate."

Two more foxes appeared one beckoned Evan and Leo to follow him.

"Masters, the massage area is in full view of the pool for everyone's pleasure. If you'll just follow me, please."

"Sir, you haven't chosen to partake of any services. Is there something special I can help you with?"

"Yes, two things. First, how many tails do you have; and second, what are you getting out of this arrangement?"

"I have as many tails as I have, and what I get is the satisfaction of service." The fox said eying me cautiously.

"I not a fool. I know a kitsuné when I'm near one, and you don't do anything without a benefit to yourselves. I'm actually surprised that House entered into an arrangement with you. Now level with me and I might let my slaves return, what are you up to?"

"You must know that every thousand years we gain a new tail until we have nine. When we reach the point for ten tails we have lived long enough and learned enough to dematerialize and join the Universal One. Unfortunately I and my kin were sealed in this realm where we no longer age. Until your House opened a gate we believed we had no hope."

"You are still trapped in this realm."

"Yes, but we can, and please forgive my bluntness, feed on your vitality. Before you get angry let me explain. When a mortal, such as yourselves, enjoy an activity like playing or achieving an orgasm vital energy is released. We can gather that energy to add to our own lives artificially aging ourselves. As to my number of tails, I am the only nine-tails at the moment. After today, I'm hoping enough energy will be released so that I may finally join the Universal One after all this time."

"Once you are gone who will become guardian?"

The mist swirled and another kitsuné appeared.

"I will become the new guardian. I am only an eight tail, but I'll do my best to serve for the sake of all."

"Well, now that my questions have been answered I think a massage before a nice long soak is in order."

"If you will follow me I'll have our best masseur and pleasure giver, attend to you."

"Pleasure giver?"

"Yes, while the masseur works one side the pleasure giver works the other."

"I see. Guardian, would you like to perform an experiment?"

"What sort of experiment?"

"I was just wondering if a pleasure giver gains more vital energy receiving it directly from the source than the rest of you when you harvest the residual energy. If you are as close as you think, it may mean the difference between immediate ascension and waiting for us to visit again."

"While I admit to being tempted I would not put my desires above those of my kin."

"My Lord, I assure you that I do not speak out of a desire to be the new Guardian, but there is a fear that this plan may not work as we hope. If, by doing this you ascend, you will be providing great hope to those who currently have none."

"Whatever you decide, I'm ready for my massage." I grinned as he rushed to follow as I headed for the doorway. Unfortunately I didn't make it all the way through. The young kitsuné had returned with a worried expression.

"Masters, there is a problem."

"What sort of problem, Karra?"

"One of the guests is unhappy and I can't think of any way to make him feel better."

"Who is it and . . . I'm an idiot. Do you have winter clothes that will fit him?"

"Yes, making clothing is well within the scope of our abilities even for a two tail like myself."

The elder guardian hissed as he let out his breath in irritation.

"Don't be too hard on him for his little slip. I'm well aware of Guardian abilities and being kitsuné you are sure to have even greater powers."

"The, uh, problem is that he says that he isn't allowed to wear clothing."

"Take me to him."

"Yes, Sir."

He turned and I followed him to the end of the hall. It wasn't the easiest task what with the moaning coming from what had to be the massage area. Josh was sitting on a bench, legs pulled up with his arms around them, rocking slowly, silently crying. I walked over, sat down, and pulled him into a hug.

"I'm sorry I should have realized you couldn't go out in the snow like the other cubs with your thinner fur. I was told they offered you clothing, why didn't you take it?"

"You said we had to be naked."

"Naked most of the time. There are times you are going to need clothing. Like when you are training or you go outside during the winter. So I wouldn't have been upset if you had accepted the clothing. Now, why don't you get dressed and go out and play. When you're done and you come back in that is when you'll need to be naked again. Just be sure to thank the Guardian for loaning you the clothing. In fact you can tell the others that they can wear clothes while playing in the snow as well. I'm sure Mika is likely going to be back in shivering with frostbit feet otherwise."

"Thank you, Sir, and I'm sorry they had to interrupt you."

"Oh, they didn't interrupt anything. I had just decided to get a massage."

"OH GOD! Right there!"

I face-palmed and then shook my head at Bruin's roar. "From the sounds of it the massage is really good."

Josh laughed, "I guess you'd better hurry up before they're all too tired."

"You're probably right. Now go have fun while I go and try to relax."

He gave me a strange look, giggled, and pushed me away, before starting to get dressed. As I walked out of the room the guardian re-appeared.

"That was interesting. You took all the blame on yourself, you didn't chastise him for interrupting you, and genuinely seemed to care about his feelings. Has humanity really progressed so far since our imprisonment?"

"I'd like to say yes, but the truth is no we haven't. We're still the same selfish, egomaniacal, warmongers we have always been the only difference being how we express it. Don't let what you just witnessed fool you, I'm just as bad as the rest I just recognize it and try to rise above."

"Perhaps one day every member of your race will follow your example."

I laughed as we entered the bathing area. “I'm not that good, I've run away from my home realm, I buy and use cubs as pleasure slaves, and-"

"And you have likely given them a better life than they would have had. As for leaving your own realm, all realms have problems. If your actions here are any indication you seem willing to help in any way you can. Now, no more thinking. Get up on the table and if you can't empty your mind then at least focus on the pleasure."

***

I'll admit that I'd never had a massage before and I had been afraid it might be somewhat painful, but the kitsuné working my back was doing wonders and the Guardian wasn't so bad either. By the time the masseur had me roll over the Guardian had brought me to the edge at least three time and perhaps a couple more but my rational mind, at that point, wasn't functioning any longer. When I finally was allowed to orgasm my brain completely shut down. When I came to I was in the large hot pool with Evan holding me in his lap. His hard on nestled between my cheeks. I slid up and took him in one go.

"Do you really think more sex is a good idea after that stunning performance?" He asked.

"What sex? I'm just sitting here making sure I'm being warmed both inside and out."

Evan flexed and I clamped down. It wasn't so much sex as simply sharing each other's pleasure. I glanced around the bathing area and after a quick count found that everyone was present and most were paired up with their mates doing much the same as Evan and myself. Leo was propped up by himself and looked unconscious.

Evan laughed, "Yeah, turns out some individuals can get drunk from pheromones. To be fair he blew three times before finally passing out."

"Don't you think you should be with him then?" I asked.

"The last thing he needs right now is more of my scent." Evan laughed. “Besides what kind of pleasure slave would I be if I didn't attend to my master?"

"Yeah, you're probably- Oh God right there. Your barbs are divine."

"Sorry, I'm flaring a little. Leo got off but I didn't so I'm a bit pent up."

"Mm, you've nothing to apologize for," I leaned back and pulled his muzzle down into a kiss. "You can speed up if you want, I want you filling me with your overly potent seed."

He did speed up slightly and within seconds I gasped as his barbs fully flared, not that anyone noticed over his ear splitting roar. The next thing I knew he was biting my shoulder, hard. Too hard for a normal human. I screamed and grabbed his collar, with my good hand, twisting it. The smart material snapped tight cutting off both air and blood flow. He choked and went limp finally realizing what he had done.

"Don't release the bite! If you do I'll bleed to death before I can be healed." I released the collar and he took a deep breath through his nose. "I hope you have the strength to carry me."

"Daddy, are you going to be alright?" Bit asked quickly swimming over.

"Bit, I'm not going to lie to you. I honestly don't know."

Race shot out of the pool in front of us, "Wh- what are you going to do to our father?"

"I'm not going to make any snap judgements. I'll consider possible punishments once I know how badly I'm injured. Evan, you need to get me back to the tunnel, hopefully House has had enough time to finish his move."

"You don't sound like you're hurt very bad." Bruin quickly pointed out.

I sighed as Evan started moving toward the exit, "I'm not like most humans. If I'm seriously injured instead of going into shock all my pain receptors shut down, my mind goes into overdrive making time seem to slow down, and I become super focused on what I need to do in order to survive. Evan, move faster. I can't feel any pain and this slow careful pace is a deadly delay."

He wisely moved into a quick walk and I could feel his fangs grinding against my bones. Thankfully I'd had them super reinforced with carbon nano-fibers, a simple bight wasn't going to break them. The rivulets of liquid running down my side was much more worrying, but I did my best to imagine it was just the water from Evan's mane. We'd made it into the tunnel and I thanked God, the portal was open.

"House redirect portal to medical." We stepped into the medical room. "Mahan, emergency pause."

Everything froze in place.

"What the hell have you gotten yourself into?" Mahan asked as he materialized.

"It's gotten just a little too real at the moment."

"No shit." The room vanished leaving only myself and Evan. "Can you make it on your own?"

"My left arm and shoulder are shot. The damage is extensive enough even a med tube isn't going to be able to repair it all. My biggest concern right now is blood loss."

"Hold very still."

It was really disconcerting watching Evan's body dissipate leaving only his head attached to my shoulder. Next he was stripped down to bone. Then only the portion making contact with my body was left and it was changing from white to black.

"There, I've reprogrammed your nanites so that they've replaced the 'plugs'. You're extremely lucky he didn't bite your neck."

"I'm headed for the Evolver Chamber now. Edit the game so that I ordered Evan to return to the bath house to retrieve the cubs, get everybody dried, and then wait for the med-tube to finish healing me." The exit doors opened as I approached.

"You're going to continue playing?" Mahan asked in surprise.

"Yes, after spending time in the evolver unit. I'm keeping the setting on master level as well."

"Stupid, stupid human. I'm locking out master level and moving you down two levels to deadly. I'm not having you killed without a chance of saving your worthless life."

I rolled my eyes. "You're probably right about being stupid, but then your personality is-"

"I'm not listening anymore. Shutting off the communication system."

"Your primary personality is a direct copy of my mind."

"La, la, nothing to hear from the stupid human. His lips are flapping but he is mute." Said as he stuck his fingers in his ears and disappeared.

***

I stepped into the virtual medical room. In reality it had taken three hours to have the damage repaired, but Mahan had refused to let me return to the game for over a month.

"Mahan, I'm fully healed reset the game level to deadly, one level below master."

"No, that is still much too dangerous, but at least you are capable of getting smarter."

"Oh shut up, I'm switching over to the game's House A.I. House, prepare to pick up from my exit from the med-tube."

The room set up changed, a ghostly version of myself was in the med-tube and Evan was sitting on a chair in front of it. As the scene continued to materialize Bit and Connor appeared along with Ghost and Rick. They all looked worried but Evan looked the worst off. It was obvious he'd been crying, his mane was an unruly mess, and his collar was tight against his neck like he'd been trying to remove it. Or perhaps he was using it to punish himself.

"House, how long have I been in the med-tube?"

"As long as you needed to be."

"That's not an answer."

"Your character won't know how much time has passed so you will just have to accept that answer."

"Mahan has been adjusting the setting again, obviously." I mumbled to myself as I stepped into the tube. It filled to my neck line with water.

"House, resume." The water slowly started to empty and I could see Conner approaching the tube. He pressed the communications button.

"Dad, are you okay?"

"I'm fine." I moved my shoulder around. I flinched a bit for effect. "A little sore, but that just means everything is working. How long was I in here?"

"Twenty eight hours thirty two minutes fifty-four seconds." Evan said not even looking up.

"Evan-"

"House had us camp out in the tree house realm and we made a sticky thing called s'mores." Mark interrupted.

"Evan-"

"He hasn't left this room since he brought us back from the bathhouse realm." Connor quickly said.

"Connor, don't take this as a bad thing but I want everyone except Evan out of the room, and that is an order."

They reluctantly left. Rick, tears streaming down his face closed the door. I pushed open the med tube. Evan slid out of the chair and knelt before me.

"Please, just make it quick."

I walked past him to the sink, filled a glass of water, and downed half of it. "I don't think so."

Evan sniffled.

"Leo has to learn not to let his mate get in such a disheveled state. And stop trying to punish yourself with that collar by now the smart fabric knows what you are doing and won't tighten any further. As for your punishment, I think you've already punished yourself far more than I would have."

"But I nearly killed you."

"Nearly, but I'm as much to blame as you are, if not more. You warned me you were pent up and I was too into the moment to think clearly about the fact that you probably hadn't been with a human before. To your credit you went for my shoulder instead of my neck which would have killed me. However, now you know that you have to be careful when we are mating. So, do you think my judgement is fair?"

"No, I should be whipped and neutered at the very least. I'd have done the latter myself but House made sure I wasn't alone at any time."

"House has your best interests in mind. He knew if you had succeeded I'd have taken you to Dr. Enrique to be repaired. That would have put us both in danger since you're not allowed back in that realm. As I said I like my slaves intact and ready to perform. I'm sure next time will go much more smoothly, well maybe not smooth taking your spines into consideration."

"You . . . Next time?" He asked in surprise.

"Of course there is going to be a next time. You are a caring lover and I'm looking forward to our next time. Just don't bite down with so much force. Yes, I'm okay with the biting even if you draw a little blood, just don't go all out and try to bite me in half again."

"Even if you don't want to punish me you have no choice. I must be punished as an example to the cubs."

"Damnit. Fine, if you insist on being punished then I'll think of something fitting. However, you have to accept my decision and stop punishing yourself, even if you believe the punishment I decide on isn't enough. As for the cubs, we are all going to talk about what happened so that they don't suffer from this incident. Agreed?"

"Yes, Master."

"House. Where are most of the cubs?"

"In the hallway waiting for you and in the tree house realm. Until you have toured the new grounds and approved of the changes I am only allowing minimal access."

I walked to the door and pulled it open. "I expected you to join the others not stand around here in the hall."

"I-I-is he gone?" Rick stuttered.

"Huh?"

Rick burst into sobs and couldn't say anything else. I stepped forward and pulled him into a hug. "Rick, no matter what happens I'm not going to kill any of you. I value each and every one of you too much, and I mean as individuals and not as slaves, especially when what happened was an accident."

"Master wants us all go to the tree house so everybody can talk about what happened."

All the cubs turned to look at Evan. Rick let go of me and ran to his father. "Dad, I was so worried."

Evan gently pushed him away and started toward the end of the hall as a portal opened.

I resisted yelling at him, "Rick, your Dad is really upset with himself right now. He doesn't trust himself and he doesn't want to risk hurting you."

"But-"

"When we're all together I'm going to give each of you a chance to speak. You can let him know how what he just did makes you feel."

He just nodded and we headed through the portal.

***

We sat at a round table on the upper most deck of the main tree. Evan was directly across from me. "I've asked you to gather here to talk about what happened at the bathhouse, Evan's punishment, and how you feel. As you can see I'm completely healed and the same as ever." I didn't say it outright but I wanted the cubs to compare my condition to Evan's haggard state.

"Conner, you go first."

"I didn't notice anything until Evan lifted you out of the bath. Even then I didn't realize anything was wrong Until Bit asked if you were all right and Race seemed to panic. I didn't get worried until Evan returned without you. However, once he said you were in the med-tube I wasn't worried anymore."

"So, you provided the King's Shadow with your wisdom, what sort of punishment do you thing is appropriate?"

"Um," he looked around the table and then directly at Evan before standing up and moving right next to me in order to whisper his answer. "I know you are going to have to punish him, but I think he is punishing himself enough already." He hugged me and then returned to his seat.

"Thank you, Conner. Bit, it's your turn."

"It scared me a little when you screamed, but when I realized that Evan was filling you with his milk I went back to swimming. I didn't realize anything was wrong until Evan returned and told us that you were hurt. I was scared then, but Conner reminded me that you would be fine since you were healing in the med-tube."

I sighed, "With a show of hands, who realized I was injured before Evan returned to tell you?"

Conner, Bit, Race, and Bruin were the only ones to raise their hands.

"Fine. Race and Bruin, do either of you want to say anything, that isn't punishment related?"

"They both shook their heads.

"Then we'll simply move on to punishment suggestions. I know what Conner thinks, so Bit, what do you think?"

"I know he has to be punished but I don't know what you should do."

"That's fine, Bit."

I pulled out a note book and wrote down "No punishment" and "Don't know".

"Shot, what is your opinion?"

"I don't like the idea, but the only punishment that seems to fit would be gelding. If he is unable to mate then this will never happen again."

I added "Neutering" to the list.

"Key?"

He sighed, "I think Evan is punishing himself enough."

I added a mark next to that entry.

"Sticks?"

"Maybe have his teeth removed or replaced so he can't bite as hard when mating."

"Birch?"

"I agree with my mate."

"Mika?"

"According to guild law, his crime no matter the circumstances, would merit execution. Fortunately this isn't the guild, and I agree with Key."

"Ghost?"

"Mr. Evan refused to eat and House had us watching to make sure that he didn't hurt himself. After the others were settled here in the tree house He returned to the infirmary and wouldn't move until you had healed. I think I agree with Key and Mika."

"Chester?"

"I don't know."

"Josh?"

"I'm just scared what he might do to me if he ever decided to use me. So even though I don't like it I agree with Shot. He needs to be fixed at the very least."

"Race, Bruin, Leo, Mark, Carl, Rick, and Justin. While I'm sure you have valid opinions, since Evan is your father I'm not going to ask you to come up with a punishment for him."

"Aaron, it is your turn."

"While I agree that Evan needs to be punished I really don't know what would be appropriate in this case, so I'm going with that."

"Isaac?"

"I've always been a slave and in the training pens we were taught that biting our master, no matter the reason meant instant death. I watched as the older pups were tortured and killed when they eventually fought back. Then I was tortured. For every born slave that is considered 'fit' at least a hundred died. Master, even if it means you have to punish me I can't, no I refuse, to be responsible in any way for another slave's punishment."

"I only asked for your opinion so no harm done. Now, Evan, what do you think your punishment should be?"

"Master, can't we do this in private?"

"No, everyone deserves to know what you think."

"I should be executed. I was careless and nearly killed you. If I had then everyone here would have lost everything."

I shook my head, I hadn't heard anything that surprised me. "I've decided on your punishment. Forest Guardian, please restrain and muzzle everyone, other than myself."

"As you command." Vines shot out and bound everyone in place.

I stood up, walked around to Evan, and sat on his lap. I pulled my robe off my shoulder exposing the scars. "Guardian, remove Evan's muzzle."

"What are you-?"

"Everyone is to remain silent, that is an order. Now, Evan, you can see the damage that you caused. I order you to bite me again."

He hesitated.

"I said bite me."

He gently took my shoulder in his mouth, his teeth barely touching my skin.

"You are to bite down harder and increase the pressure until I tell you to stop."

All the cubs were staring at me and Evan mewled pathetically as he started to bite down. I gasped as the pressure increased.

"Keep going."

"Stop! Hold right there." I yelled as I felt the sting of my skin being pierced. "Your punishment is to remain like this holding the same pressure until I say otherwise. Guardian, you can release the cubs now."

"What are you doing?"

"I'm punishing you father, and teaching all of you a lesson, Leo."

"Josh made a very good point. My skin isn't the same as that of furry species and it can be seriously injured if you're not careful. When I'm done your father will never forget this is the pressure limit he is allowed. Now, all of you can go play since Evan and I are going to be here for some time."

After the cubs had cleared out I reached up and softly rubbed the bridge of Evan's muzzle. "Now that the cubs are gone the choice is yours when to release me, but this is your only punishment. Only let go when you feel you've suffered enough. I'm quite comfortable here in your lap." I paused as I realized that I really was comfortable even with the slight pain coming from the bite. Only one thing could make it better.

"Guardian, you can remove Evan's restraints now, and carefully reform the chair so we are in a slightly reclined position."

Evan was careful to maintain the same bite pressure as the chair shifted. A pillow formed to hold his neck and head in position as well. I pulled his arms around my body and rubbed my cheek against his only to discover that he was crying.

"Evan, when you finish punishing yourself, I want you to make love to me. Slow, gentle, intimate love. I need to know that you forgive me and that you forgive yourself for our recklessness."

***