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Chapter 2

" Introductions and Seductions"

Edgar yawned widely as he awoke the next morning, blue eyes opening to behold several garments of clothes at the foot of the bed. For a moment, he simply sat there, drinking in his surroundings. His open window let in the dawn light of gold and violet, while a cool breeze allowed the occasional cherry blossom to flow inward to fall onto his floor.

'These are for you, sweetheart.' Read a note on the robes, as Edgar examined them. 'I hope they aren't uncomfortable. -Balian.' Edgar lifted each one up, examining the texture and color of each in turn. Some were shimmering and lustrous, while others held a dull, metallic feel to them that made the otter's eyes relax. They seemed to be made of soft, firm fabrics, of golds, greens, purples, and every other color imaginable. The otter stood up, slipping out of the plush covers he'd so luxuriously slept in that night, and tied one of the robes tight around him with the waist cord. The garb felt strange: tight around his arms, but not uncomfortably so, and then flowing from his upper chest downward.

"This, this is most strange." Edgar said to himself as he pulled on the matching pair of black silk trousers for the red and black robe he wore. "One day I'm a poor boy breaking his back for his family, and the next I'm being spoiled by lavish politicians. It feels... Wrong. I shouldn't be deserving of this." He sighed to himself. He always wanted to be part of the higher castes, and now he was; this, however, this was not what or how he'd intended it to be. He was supposed to get to here on his own, work at it, earn his success. It was wrong that by chance, by some twist of fate, he had ended up here, being treated like a prince, though born a pauper. This was hardly even slavery.

He then remembered what he would have to do for the rest of his life, and he shuddered darkly. On second thought, he'd changed his mind. He hadn't earned this lavish lifestyle, but he certainly was going to pay for it. Over, and over, and over again. He didn't want sex! He was a virgin, and had been waiting for someone special to share that with! Wasn't it wrong to share the highest pleasure of ones body so casually? He sighed loudly and then threw himself onto the bed, clutching his head. He didn't know what to think anymore.

A sudden 'TAP! TAP! TAP!' at the door seized the conflicted otter's attention. Edgar had a fairly good idea who it was.

"Young master? Are you decent?"

Bingo. He'd guessed right.

"Yes Hraefn! You may come in!"

A beat later the door swung inward with a heavy 'CLICK!' and a slight creak. There stood the familiar raven, as immaculately preened and clothed as ever. The young mustelid took notice of a slight change to his friend's attire since the previous evening. His shirt was a dark crimson example of the finest silk...and his vest was embroidered with an ornate floral design. If nothing else this seemed to indicate that the corvid had at least some variety to his wardrobe. If were at all possible, he looked even more debonair than he had upon their first meeting. With a beaming avian 'grin' he approached his young charge.

"Ah! I see you have found the fruits of Balian's labor! So how is the fit? And the design? To your liking master Ark?"

Edgar smiled a little at the raven, nodding his approval and giving the garb a twirl. The long reach of the cloak he wore followed after him, cut into two sides from his waist down so that his tail could freely move.

"It's perfect. It couldn't be better. You're looking very dapper as well, Hraefn." The mustelid stretched, and focused upon the corvid once more. "What exactly are we to do today? I believe you mentioned yesterday about my learning more about the manor and meeting the famil... The family of the dragons." His small ears blushed a bit at the mention of the dragons. He remembered Vester from last night, that magnificent beast of blue and white and silver. He had enamored him somehow, and even a full nights rest had not undone the strange attraction that Edgar felt for him. He felt as though, even though he would have to service other males, and maybe even service Balian and Hraefn, two men of great kindness, that Vester would be different. That he would belong to him...

What was he thinking!? He shook himself a little. Belong to someone? Like property? No, that was wrong. He was an individual, he had a voice and freedom. Except... He wasn't an individual. He was a slave. He was property, no matter how glamorous or freeing the dragons and Hraefn made it sound. He still was a prisoner. And yet...

These thoughts and arguments were churning around the otters head breakneck speed, and he found himself again sitting at the foot of his bed, head clutched in his hands. He felt a claw on his shoulder, and looked up to find Hraefn staring down at him.

Much to Edgar's shock, the raven dropped the eloquent flair that had so defined him since their initial meeting. Kneeling so that he could meet the younger man's gaze. His earthen depths quivered with a powerful torrent of emotions. Sadness? Pity? Empathy? Whatever the avian felt was all but impossible for the mustelid to decipher. When Hraefn's voice finally materialized, it was without any airs. Any accentuation. It was just...him. The REAL him. The tones were soft. Subdued yet also...raw. Somehow less 'polished'. He sounded less like an aristocrat and more like a... Well, a man all too familiar with the harsher aspects of life.

"It's sinking in isn't it? The truth. That you will never be truly 'free' again. Free of this place. Of your 'duties.' That look that crossed your face just now. I know it all too well. I've seen it time and time again. On the faces of each new arrival, and upon my own some years ago."

Edgar gasped at that revelation. Certainly he knew Hraefn's status was no different than his own...but somehow the way he carried himself. It was as if he had known luxury all his life. How had he been so completely transformed? Who was he before? The otter was afraid to ask.

"...but there is hope. It is only because of darkness that we seek the light and appreciate it's glory. It is only FROM the darkness that we may find the light. There are GOOD people here. Kind souls. If you are unable to alter the limitations of your defined physical reality, then instead alter your perception of it. After all Edgar, reality is by it's VERY definition, perception. Always remember. I am here for you Edgar and I am a FRIEND."

A gentle talon caressed the mustelid's cheek and then he was enveloped in black wings as Hraefn held him in a tender embrace.

Edgar nestled into the hug quietly, eyes closed and head nestled into the males shoulder.

"Hraefn, thank you." He said after a long, quiet pause. He pulled out of the hug, wiped his eyes, and nodded weakly. "Thank you, thank you. For understanding, for... For everything."

A sudden rumble erupted from the otters stomach, and he blushed at his ears again. "Oh, um, so, now that we've gone through that, maybe I could have some breakfast now? If that's okay?"

The raven couldn't help but chuckle at the young man's embarrassment. He was so shy and easily flustered. The corvid had to admit that he found it to be very endearing. Without a doubt it was that very aspect of the timid otter's personality that had drawn master Vester's immediate intrigue. Much like a cat to a mouse... He shook away such thoughts. No need to dwell on that just yet. With a beaming 'grin' he stood and pulled Edgar up with him. In a flash his aura of propriety and eloquence was back. Peculiar how quickly the avian could shift to different aspects of his evidently complex personality. Quite the talent in fact.

"Yes of course master Ark. Breakfast should be served shortly. Come. Follow me if you please. I will escort you to the dining hall. There are a few new faces to meet once we arrive as well."

Edgar flashed an honest smile, nodding fervently as he followed the corvid into the now familiar hall. It had been one thing to see these ancient corridors at dusk, but it was QUITE another to behold their splendor by the dawn's nigh celestial light. Rays of shining gold permeated crisp air, fragrant with the scent of exotic blossoms, glinting off the gold inlaid marble structures with a majestic radiance. The surreal atmosphere was accentuated by a chorus of ethereal tones. Songbirds of prodigious skill giving voice to the beauty seemingly so natural to this strange place. The gentle trickling of the creek a fitting rhythm to their sweet chorus. The mustelid's awe must have been evident in his expression, for Hraefn chuckled warmly.

"Quite an experience isn't it young master? To awaken to such an enchantment?"

"Yes it is Hraefn." He concurred, walking down the hallway, admiring the ornate, exotic beauty of it all. "Yes it is." The environment of the area was both modern and ancient, comparable to a fusion of Oriental and Victorian era architecture and general theme.

"Hraefn, are any of the dragons we work for... Evil?" He asked, as the two moved through the hallway down another corridor, through several dark wood doors, and then down a small, enclosed flight of stairs. The pair reached the dining area, which apparently for the servants meant in the basement floor kitchen. This may give the impression that their accommodations were sub-par, but the opposite appeared true. A warm, crystal studded chandelier hung above the well-worn table before them, desks and chairs along its many sides. The kitchen was next door, barely visible through a distorted glass door; the scents though, were allowed to freely escape into the adjacent dining room, tantalizing them with the tempting smells. The table, chandelier, and the atmosphere of the room itself, gave it a cozy, homey feel, and Edgar felt himself begin to relax... Until the door opened with a bang! that startled him half to death.

Hraefn's answer to the young mustelid's query was cut off as the kitchen door was rammed open by a truly terrifying looking bull of considerable height and bulk; a greasy apron wrapped round his massive frame and a steaming platter in his hands which looked far to heavy for any normal man to lift. With a grunt he hefted the sizzling dish onto the already laid out table; removing the cover to reveal an absolutely beautiful assortment of fine sausages, eggs, and several slices of honey cured ham. The scent was absolutely intoxicating. Edgar had little time to savor the aroma however, as the bovine goliath spotted him and approached with heavy cloven hooves. 'THUNK! THUNK! THUNK!' Deep brown eyes, tinged with a rusty reddish hue bore into the by now petrified young otter. The bull was truly gargantuan. Judging from the short distance between his shoulders and the top of the door, he HAD to be at least seven feet tall...and apparently all muscle. His fur was shaggy and disheveled, tinged a dark charcoal. His mane was a long and unruly mess, dangling carelessly in his eyes. As if his appearance weren't intimidating enough, his voice was worse. His vocal chords sounded as if they'd been scorched by fire. His tones rasped and dragged out as if the act of speaking were physically painful; and for all the otter knew, it was.

"You the new fella eh?"

With a nervous gulp Edgar struggled to utter a meager response through frozen nerves. Mercifully he was spared as an iron skillet suddenly shot straight at the behemoth's head with a dull 'Duuung!' Unbelievably, the bull was completely unphased; turning around with a look of mild confusion and GREAT annoyance. There, standing in the open doorway of the kitchen was a FUMING horse, who to Edgar's complete shock appeared to be a MARE. Of slight build and and small stature, no more than five feet tall at the most, with a well toned but thin hourglass figure and luxurious silky blonde fur, a flowing platinum mane and piercing emerald eyes. The equine was GORGEOUS. Then, HE opened his mouth, revealing a rather light and effeminate but undeniably male voice.

"Rolo! For the MILLIONTH time, DON'T SLAM THE DOOR!! We just got it replaced from the LAST time! Need I remind you who has to clean this place up!? AND serve the food!? AND stock the store rooms!?"

The furious young stallion's tyrade came to a VERY abrupt halt as he spied the incredibly nervous young otter standing next to a familiar corvid butler. An intense blush seized the equine's features who was evidently quite embarrassed at having been caught expressing his...masculine side. His voice lost all edge as he addressed Hraefn with a self conscious 'squeak.'

"O-oh my... Hraefn. I didn't see you there. W-who is your new friend?"

Chuckling in spite of himself the corvid beamed at the golden equine.

"Ahh as energetic as ever Sira. I must thank you for always so graciously providing some morning entertainment. Hehehe."

That made the stallion apparently known as 'Sira' blush harder.

"As for our friend here." The corvid continued. "I would like you to meet our new 'companion' Edgar Ark."

With that the stallion batted his eyes somewhat bashfully, pressing in close to the speechless young mustelid and murring in obvious approval.

"Oh my. Well hellooo there cutie. The pleasure is ALL mine..."

"I-is it now?" He asked weakly, taken aback at once by the flamboyant horse. He didn't know how to react to the feminine male before him, the way he acted unlike any who'd he met before. No one had been feminine enough to appear to be a female on first glance, and the fact that a male could be like that threw him off his guard.

"Well, um, t-thank you, I think." He blushed at his ears, unable to make eye contact with the stallion, so close as he was. His tail twitched nervously, and he gulped a little, trying his best to figure out how to escape the situation he currently was in.

"So um, Hraefn? Do you mind introducing me here?" He asked, stepping back a little to get a better of the two.

With a thinly veiled snicker the corvid servant mercifully intervened.

"Yes yes. Of course. Master Ark this is Rolo De La stone, our head chef. A veritable culinary genius hand chosen by Lord Draconis himself."

Edgar had to do a double take as the fearsome giant of a bull actually blushed. For all parts looking like a bashful child. Hraefn patted him on the arm with a 'grin' and warmth emanating from his earthen pools.

"Hehe...and don't let his looks deceive you young master. This big lug is among the absolute sweetest men you will ever have the honor to meet."

The blush intensified as 'Rolo' scraped the ground with a hoof, looking away shyly. Next the corvid indicated the effeminate stallion who was still shooting the young otter 'sultry' looks.

"...and this is Sira Karaya, head of the kitchen staff and self appointed resident 'princess.' "

The stallion tisked and wrapped his slender arms around the raven's neck.

"Oh Hraefn! You meanie. You make me sound so self centered."

The avian snickered at that and shot the equine a teasing wink.

"...and you mean to say that you are not?"

The golden stallion gasped and turned away in mock anger, only to break into a sly smirk and surprise the corvid with a rather...bold, kiss. Parting his ebony beak and lustfully wrestling with the raven's tongue in a decidedly, familiar way; separating with a wet smack and thin strand of saliva a moment later. The equine gave a deep murr, trailing his hands along the the only slightly surprised corvid's soft downy feathers as he pulled away with a sly wink.

"Ooh...you."

Edgar stared in complete bewilderment. What just happened? He looked away, embarrassed at the sight of the kiss. It put Hraefn in a new light: at first, he'd thought of him as some kind of model, someone who was above actual physical relations. Now, seeing him with the horse, the otter couldn't help but feel a little jealous. He wanted to make that side of Hraefn come out, that playful, warm side that always came out whenever certain men interacted with him.

"A-are you two done?" He finally asked, trying his best not to look uncomfortable or peeved, but rather failing at it at the same time. "I think some breakfast would be nice... Unless you two have a different kind of hunger to satisfy."

The way those words came out of his mouth were too hostile, unlike him. Why was he so mad? Was he feeling territorial about the raven? He shouldn't feel that way, and yet he did.

The frisky equine's eyes widened before narrowing as a grin spread across his muzzle. He clasped his hands together and began to giggle.

"Oh! That is SOOO cute! Is the little otta watta JEALOUS?"

That made Edgar's blood freeze. Was he THAT transparent? Could the horse actually tell? The aforementioned stallion slid in close and batted his eyes at the frozen mustelid.

"Don't worry cutie pie. There's plenty of princess Sira for you too..."

Apparently not. Wow. The horse really WAS self centered. Hraefn glanced at the otter with a look of concern laced with curiosity. He opened his beak to say something but was cut off by the unmistakable jagged hiss of Rolo's voice.

"Breakfast is served!"

True to the bull's word the table was now completely covered with a variety of platters each holding some exotic food or another. All of it was of the highest quality and style. And it all smelled absolutely DELICIOUS, kicking the hungry otter's stomach into overdrive. With a grateful nod Hraefn led the young master to his seat before claiming his own. He tried in vain to shake off the awkwardness of Sira's unexpected though admittedly familiar stunt. The raven tried to keep his composure but found his gaze drifting over to the flustered mustelid time and time again, his mind plagued with thoughts of worry. Suddenly a loud chime sounded and the doors to the dining hall swung open as a fairly small group of assorted maids, butlers and other servants from around the estate entered and gratefully took their seats; exchanging small talk, morning greetings and other such pleasantries. Through the now populated air Hraefn still sought the otter's eyes. Then suddenly his attention was drawn to a familiar voice coming from a familiar figure. A very weary looking gator lumbered towards the corvid, a toothy grin on his face.

"Hraefn! Morning my friend!"

The raven 'grinned' and embraced the haggard reptile in a warm hug.

"Balian my friend! You look absolutely drained! I would have thought for sure you would be sleeping in today after all of the work you put in last night!"

The gator chuckled heartily, dismissing the avian's concerns with a wave of his hand.

"You think I would miss a feast like this!? Not every day we welcome a new 'companion.' Wouldn't miss it for the world!"

It was then that the gator spied the aforementioned otter's wide eyes upon him. The reptile quickly moved to the young man's side and clasped a friendly hand on his shoulder.

"There's the lad! Well well. Seems to be a good fit!"

The gator ran an idle hand through the fabric of Edgar's robe as he said this.

"To your liking then lad?"

"Very much sir! I love it!" The otter piped up enthusiastically, grinning at the gator and feeling himself relax at once. he was with Balian and Hraefn now; nothing could go wrong. The two seemed to almost stabilize his sanity, bring him calm in an otherwise overwhelming world. He then quickly slipped away from the equine 'princess' and settled down in the dining table, his eyes lit up with hunger.

"Balian, Hraefn, everyone, please." He gestured to the table, trying to contain his eagerness to eat. "Let's sit down and eat! I'm famished." He watched as the males all settled down, and they began to dig in. Hraefn and Balian sat beside him, and he wouldn't have it any other way.

"I must thank you again, Balian, for the robes and trousers. How in the world did you make so many in such a short time?" He asked, giving the long sleeves an appreciative flex and tug. "They're absolutely stunning,"

Balian chuckled at the youngster's query. It was a jovial laugh to be sure, his voice a deep throaty rumble.

"Come now lad. Why do you think I'm head tailor at House Draconic? Because I'm the best there is that's why!"

With that he erupted into laughter once more, joined by several other knowing servants who offered warm smiles of joy at the wiley gator's familiar antics and larger than life personality. The meal was absolutely superb. The atmosphere was so friendly. So warm. Like a large family rather than the stiff, prim and proper servants Edgar had initially imagined. Before long plates were empty and bellies were quite full. The otter leaned back in his chair, patting his slightly distended belly with a satisfied groan, drawing a merry laugh from Hraefn, whom Edgar noticed had eaten a significantly smaller portion. The realization made him blush, but what could he say? He was nearly starving and the food was the best he'd EVER had. The raven patted the mustelid on the shoulder as his laughter died down.

"I trust it was a satisfying meal master Ark?"

"I wouldn't have eaten so much if it weren't!" He replied, smiling at Rolo, which he noticed made the bull blush. That was quite endearing; he now saw why the other males liked making him blush. Once he became involved in this whole having sex with other people thing, he would have to pay a visit to that bull. As he heard the horse berate the much larger bovine back into the kitchen, he realized that he'd have to deal with that obnoxious guy as well. It wasn't that he was inherently bad... He simply rubbed Edgar raw. The way he talked and acted; he just didn't like him. He knew it was shallow and tried moving past it, but it was difficult.

"There's been something I've been wanting to ask you Hraefn." He eventually said, after enjoying the warmth of being full for quite some time. "If I don't want to have sex with someone... Can I say no? Or does it not work like that?" He looked over at the raven, his eyes both a little nervous and determined. He wanted to know.

The raven seemed to consider the otter's question carefully, a look of deep thought glossing over his handsome features. Finally he drew a breath, making eye contact and speaking in hushed tones.

"It is a fine line young master. On one hand ours is a house of 'honor' in the most classical sense of the word. There is a strict moral and ethical code that dates back centuries. A code every member of this house is honor bound to adhere to. Violation of that code is the most serious of offenses. As such it is traditionally held that any relations must be mutually consensual. On the other hand your status as an indentured servant, a 'companion' in your case, cannot be disputed. Thus you do have duties and you are fully expected to perform them. You cannot refuse everyone. I suppose, fundamentally it comes down to preference..."

The corvid seemed to struggle with his words, his earthen pools darting around for some assistance. Finally with a triumphant 'Ah!' he gestured to the assorted dishes upon the table.

"Of course. Think of it this way young master. We all must eat to live, but in most cases we may choose what we wish to eat. You MUST perform your service. However, you may choose the nature of that service. Including who you wish to...shall I say, 'share yourself' with. Does that make sense to you master Ark?"

Hraefn was expressing a different side of his personality this morning. Nervousness and humility; wincing at what he viewed as a clumsy explanation. It was quite cute actually.

The otter thought for a moment, before slowly nodding. "So, it's like, I get to choose who I have sex with out of a group, but at the same time, I have to have sex. I can't stay a virgin. Hmm, then... Then it works like this: if anyone ever tries to do something to me that I don't want, and I refuse, but they do it anyway, it's wrong. But, the initial act of sex is required. That's confusing; I imagine that it must be difficult for someone of my... Trade... To get the rules down correctly."

The otter sat there for a few moments, pondering the situation. In all honesty, it felt like it was _his_duty and obligation to create the exact criteria. It felt too vague for him, too insubstantial. After thinking it over some, he came up with a small draft.

"It feels like I have a lot of power in this." He said to the raven, and then he explained his idea in a low, embarrassed voice. He was mortified to be talking so openly about something like this, but the full impact of his words still did not fully reach his heart. He still was locked in denial.

"I think that if someone asks me to 'relieve' them, I shall do it; but, if they attempt to do something I'm uncomfortable with, I will leave immediately, or refuse them. So, I guess that is that." He rubbed his blushing ears and smiled weakly, the false grin not reaching up to his eyes. He felt hollow inside; how could this be happening?

The raven chanced a slight part of his beak, offering a small reassuring 'grin' to the young mustelid as he leaned in close, speaking in hushed tones.

"Coercion is NOT a word taught to ANY who serve in this house young master. In the end you are only expected to do what is comfortable to you. The exact nature of the act will always be yours to decide. Your pool of 'clients' is also quite vast. You may also choose to 'relieve' the staff as well, should you so desire."

The corvid took a breath, looking around in a humorously over cautious manner before leaning in closer, lowering his voice another note.

"But DO steer clear of Sira. That stallion will be sure to come after you in the future. Once he sets his sights on someone he finds appealing he is RELENTLESS. I had to learn that the hard way I'm afraid. One night...just one night and the man has been a thorn in my side ever since; but truth be told, he isn't my type... hehe."

The avian said this in good humor. As evidenced by the mischievous glint to his eyes. The normally tightly wound butler's playful air seemed to do much to lift Edgar's spirits. How was it the raven seemed to do so with such ease? As if he were completely unaware? He truly was a remarkable person. A remarkable friend; and the otter would have to think of some way to repay him for the warmth, compassion, and kindness the corvid had shown him since his arrival.

The otter stood up and stretched himself, working out the small knots of anxiety in his neck. He felt scared still, but the raven seemed to keep him from panicking. Hraefn was once like him, and he seemed, while not entirely pleased with how his situation had turned out, at the least, content.

"Hraefn, shall we move to the outside?" The otter asked, smelling the stale, breakfast-soaked air within the dining room. "I think I'd like to continue our tour, and this room is starting to need an airing out." He looked over at Balian, and smiled lightly.

"If you're not too busy, Balian sir, I'd like it if you joined us. I am curious on learning more about you and Hraefn's... Association with one another." His eyes said something different: he wanted these two men with him, so that he could feel more comfortable around men. The thought of sex still scared him, but he felt a little giddy around Balian and Hraefn... What was it he felt? Infatuation? He wasn't sure, only that he wanted to be close to the two. They made him feel safe.

The young mustelid was answered with a wide toothy grin as the reptile stood with an eager stretch; his well developed muscles rolling beneath his smooth abdominal scales in a manner all too pleasing to the eye. Edgar couldn't help but stare; and also wonder if the gator's habitual shirtlessness was a matter of preference, or flaunting his obviously attractive form. With his trademark chuckle Balian threw himself between the other two men, clasping a heavy arm around each of their shoulders. A move made slightly awkward and admittedly humorous due to Edgar and Hraefn's significant difference in height.

"But of course lad! I could use a good walk after a feast like that!"

The jovial reptile let out an exaggerated, heavy breath as he patted his evidently full belly. The food did NOTHING to mar his impressive abdominals however. With a sly grin he looked back over his shoulder to Rolo. The giant bull was beginning to tidy up at the...heavy, 'insistence' of his equine supervisor.

"You outdid yerself Rolo! Absolutely exquisite!"

The bull bowed slightly with an adorable blush before being chided by Sira to return to his duties. With a tisk and a shake of his green head Balian returned his attention to his two friends.

"Now then! Where to first lads?"

Hraefn couldn't help but chuckle warmly at the gator's enthusiasm. Thinking for a moment he turned to Edgar with his beak parted in a slight 'grin.'

"Well young master. I could show you the ball room. Or perhaps the music room? Or the gallery. Or the pool? The choice is yours."

"Let's see it all, starting with the pool." He said, finding himself quite cozy with that large arm around him. It made him feel safe, protected, and secure.

The three of them, otter, raven, and reptile, all exited the room, each giving their thanks to Rolo and Sira as they left. The trio found another tight, spiral staircase, which led them to yet another corridor, this one well-lit by windows. The outside was a cobble-stone porch, which opened out to a wide, verdant lawn. A crystal clear pool, surrounded by boulders of various sizes and shapes and colors, and flowers grew in small patches all around the perimeter of the boulders.

"It's beautiful." Edgar whispered, stepping out with the two older men onto the porch, upon reaching the doorway at the end of the corridor. "Everything looks stunning." The mid-morning sun, undimmed by the few stray white wisps of cloud in the sky, shone down on them, creating a bright reflection on the pool, while soaking Edgar in warmth. This place... It felt like paradise.

The majestic ambiance was shattered a moment later by Balian's familiar rumbling tones.

"Ahhh smell that fresh air! Sublime aye lad?!"

He clapped the young mustelid upon the back with a heavy scaled hand, knocking the poor man forward a few paces. Still a genuine smile dominated the otter's features. Balian's high spirits did much to lift Edgar's own. Hraefn joined the two with a subtle chuckle, his ebony beak parted ever so slightly in that oh so charming 'grin' that defied his very species and anatomy.

"Quite Balian. Quite. This area was originally conceived as a reflecting pool many centuries ago; but um, certain lords with more shall we say, 'recreational' thoughts had it converted into what you see now. A swimming area that very much retains the tranquility and subtle ambiance of it's original design."

Edgar listened intently to the raven's words with deep fascination. The mustelid was awe struck by the sheer, vast, simple yet eloquent beauty of it. Leaning in closer the corvid continued with a note of pronounced delight.

"We also have something quite special here young master. Just around those stones to the right is a natural hot spring. Both the spring and the pool are open to the staff UNLESS otherwise notified that one of the lords has requested it's use. Fear not master Ark. A notice shall be posted at the entrance during such occasions and as with the masters' bed chambers you may join them if invited."

Edgar nodded in understanding, processing all he'd just been told when suddenly Balian's thunderous voice interrupted his reverie once more.

"Ah enough with the boring chatter Hraefn! I don't know about you lads but I could really go for a nice swim about now! "

Without a further word, Edgar watched in stunned silence and Hraefn in mild exasperation as the gator proceeded to slip off his robe, tossing it aside. It was quickly followed by his trousers. and before Edgar realized what was happening the gator was standing there stark NAKED, with a wide toothy grin on his face. Oh yes. The reptile was very VERY attractive indeed. Slender for an adult male gator though still burly compared to the other two men. His body was PERFECTLY toned with attractive musculature dominating his abdomen. Yet Edgar couldn't help but look lower...sweet mother. The evidently well endowed gator's cock was on full display; thick, and long. At LEAST eight inches. The flesh was a pale pink. Hanging proudly beneath the impressive member were balls the size of kiwi fruits. Swinging pendulously as the gator stood tall with his hands on his hips.

"So? You lads gonna join me?!"

Edgar blushed at the sight of the gator, present in his nude form as he was. He gulped a little, trying to keep his composure, all while finding his eyes magnetized to it. How it looked... How it must feel... He tore his sky-blue eyes away again, feeling close to a panic attack.

'He's just naked.' He told himself. 'Relax, he isn't gonna hurt you.' With trembling hands, he pulled off his shirt and shorts, revealing a lithe, cream-and-brown furred body, with his pale diagonal scar running along his chest as a snake through grass. He halted at his loincloth beneath, shy paws unable to peel the fabric away. Even with his family, so packed tightly in that tiny cabin, he had never had the confidence to display any nudity, where everyone else, because of the heat of the swamps, often went without clothes.

"So um, the water... Where does it come from?" He asked, placing a tentative toe in the clear, pure water.

The poor young mustelid's mortification did not go unnoticed by his avian guardian. Nevertheless the raven thought it would be prudent for the otter to overcome such shyness sooner rather than later. With another of his characteristic chuckles Hraefn moved in closer, offering an answer to his charge's query as nimble digits began to casually unbutton his ornate vest.

"Ah yes. Well as previously mentioned master Ark this area is located atop a natural hot spring. The spring itself is fed from an ancient aquifer beneath where we now stand. The water is heated via the natural process of convection, by volcanic rock far below. With some clever re-routing the pool was redesigned to utilize water from the aquifer. As such it is of the purest quality without the need of any over complicated mechanical devices which, truth be told often fail. The result is the simple beauty you now behold young master."

As the raven finished his explanation he folded the last of his formal attire, laying his trousers neatly atop the rest of his discarded clothing. As Edgar turned to face the avian butler, his appreciative smile melted into an expression of shock and his blood ran cold. There stood the always immaculate Hraefn, just as nude as Balian. The raven was MUCH simmer than his reptilian comrade. His body was streamlined and agile yet extremely well defined. His chest was lined with powerful muscles necessary for flight. Such a beautiful and exotic contradiction to be so thin as to almost appear emaciated, yet possess such attractive tone and definition. The sleek iridescent plumage that covered his taught flesh only added to the corvid's dark beauty. His frame outlined in purple hues beneath the gleaming sun. Then as the otter's eyes traveled lower still they beheld the raven butler's magnificent manhood hanging limp between his powerful thighs. By the Gods... the pale pink shaft was at LEAST seven inches and still soft. It was decidedly plump for an avian as well, and although it was clear that Hraefn was not in a state of arousal it was...moist and dripping. As if in a constant state of 'readiness.' The scent was indeed quite, 'alluring.' Beneath the aforementioned member were the corvid's balls, of a comparable size to Balian's and neatly nestled within a low hanging feathered sack. With a quizzical brow perked, the raven moved in even closer, standing beside the stunned mustelid as he gestured to the pool.

"Shall we then?"

Edgar was trembling slightly as the raven came close to him, trying his best to remain calm and not react poorly.

"Hra... Hraefn..." The otter looked down shyly and whimpered. "C-can I be honest? This is... Rather uncomfortable for me." He brushed the side of his loincloth a little, unable to bring himself to remove it. "I don't know how to do say this, but... I've never been comfortable around people in the nude. I..." He dry swallowed and paused. He honestly didn't know what to really say, and simply stared down at his loincloth and his paw, which continued to glide along his waist.

The raven sat down beside the nervous young otter, gently swishing his foot talons in the water. With a light touch he rested a hand talon on the younger man's shoulder. His tone was soft and comforting.

"I do apologize for that master Ark. I thought it would be best to ease you into your new life as delicately as possible. We are friends. There is nothing expected of you and nothing to feel ashamed nor embarrassed about. You do not have reveal all of yourself if you do not wish to. A simple swim. A swim amongst close friends. That is all."

Those earthen pools conveyed the deepest warmth and compassion and Edgar felt himself slowly relaxing. The peaceful moment was interrupted an instant later as both men were soaked by cold water. Balian burst from the surface with a rumbling chuckle. The gator's impromptu belly flop had positively soaked his comrades.

"Hahahahahaha! What're ya waitin'fer lads?! Water's fantastic!"

The gator's antics brought a warm smile upon the male's face, and he chuckled at the gator's ridiculous display.

"A'ight, you're right Hraefn. I can trust you." He pulled off his loincloth, revealing a warm, cream colored sheath, with furry orbs resting on his thighs, which seemed warm and full, compared to the size of his sheath.

"Now, lets hop in!" He cried happily, and, gripping the raven's talon, he pulled them both into the pool's warm water, which brought a smile to his face. There was nothing like fresh water to swim in to brighten his mood.

The avian came sputtering to the surface a moment later, his plumage slick with the cool water, giving his feathers a 'spiky' appearance. The raven's ebony beak was parted in a warm avian 'grin' as he shot the mustelid a wink before diving back below the surface. Evidently the corvid was a VERY accomplished swimmer. He maneuvered through the liquid as Edgar imagined he would through the air. It truly looked as if Hraefn was 'flying' through the water. Every motion was the picture of splendid beauty and grace. The pool was a placid reflection of the bright blue sky. The rays of the late morning sun set the transparent liquid aglow, shining off the corvid's iridescent plumage in turn and highlighting his fluid form in pulsing blue and purple hues. As the otter stared transfixed on the sight, the water stirred to his right. Out of nowhere a familiar green form bolted forth with frightening speed. With a silent scream Hraefn was tackled underwater by Balian. A wicked toothy grin upon the gator's face. It seemed the reptile swam with all the silent ferocity and stealth as his feral ancestors. Slithering through the water almost like a serpent. As the men broke the surface for air the avian sent a wave crashing upon his comrade's head with a powerful swipe of his outstretched wing. His tone was a peculiar and amusing hybrid of irritation and humor.

"Balian! MUST you do that EVERY time?! I nearly had a heart attack!"

The gator merely erupted into his usual throaty chuckles.

"Yet ya ALWAYS fall fer it don't ya?! Yer TOO predictable bird brain! Hahahaha!"

With a 'fierce' look of defiance the corvid barreled into the laughing reptile's gut, knocking the air out of him and sending him crashing unceremoniously back into the water. With a triumphant 'grin' the raven held his arms and wings up high.

"How was that for 'predictable' my friend?"

Edgar laughed a little at the males' antics, laying on his back in the crystalline pool. His thick, rudder-like tail glided him through the water lazily, hardly with any effort at all. He dived down a little to watch Balian twirl in the water, and re-emerged again, still maintaining that warm grin on his face.

"Hraefn, you'd best be careful!" He warned, his whiskers sensing the crocodile's rapid approach to the corvid's feet at the edge of the pool. "You might end up-"

His words were drowned as the predator shot out a large hand from the water, grabbed Hraefn's ankle, and yanked him forcibly into the water... Then all went still.

"Lunch." He finished with a bemused chitter, watching as the raven emerged with a gasp from the pool's depths.

With a panicked. sputtering cough the corvid narrowed his earthen hues dangerously at the reptilian predator. With a sinister grin that was impressive coming from a beak, the raven slowly spread his wings, swishing them through the water beside him slowly as his tail feathers began to sway back and forth like a rudder. His tone was a low icy hiss.

"That's it Balian. You wanted the 'devil-bird?' YOU'VE GOT HIM!"

With that the blackbird catapulted himself through the water at a startling velocity before ascending from the pool with a mighty flap of his water logged wings. The gator stared skyward with wide trembling amber hues as his form was cast in ominous shadow. With barely a gulp of dread his tone was a petrified utterance.

"...Oh boy..."

With a thunderous crash the avian dive bombed the hapless gator with a torrential downpour of liquid vengeance that completely sunk the reptilian victim and saturated the otter on the sidelines.

Edgar floated in the churning water happily, like a lure in rainy pond. He watched the two struggle about, two masculine forms rough-housing and wrestling in the water. He pulled himself out of the water and laid on the hot stones surrounding the pool, eyes closed and ears perked to the sounds of Hraefn and Balian.

His fur's natural water-proofing kept his skin dry, but his fur was still a tad damp, but within a few minutes, he was contently warm and satisfied. Before he could stand though, a thick, powerful force wrapped around his body. A scaled hand gently encased his muzzle, and he flipped over to find himself staring into the crystalline-blue depths of Vester.

"Hello there, little one." He purred, a terrifying gleam in his eyes as he lifted the male bridal-style from the rocks. "It seems the servants are enjoying their playtime..." He leaned in and nuzzled the otter's ears softly, whispering into them, "How about we play a little game? I'll throw you in and toy with you for a bit, and then I will start on your... True training... Once we are inside. Remember, your job is all about fun. You seem to take things far too seriously. You need to learn mischief!"

With that, the reptile threw the otter into the pool, the mustelid crying out in surprise as he hit the wavy liquid. He felt a splash follow after him, and within moments the dragon was playing with him. The dragon began poking and swimming around Edgar's body, yanking on his tail, pawing his rump, and wrestling his arms around with his superior strength. Edgar knew that if he didn't escape that the dragon wouldn't stop, and kicked off the dragon's belly, launching into the water.

For the next hour, the two chased one another, Vester's eyes gleaming predatorially, and Edgar's face twisted in a smile. He forgot his troubles, his concerns, and simply enjoyed the simple game of chase that all otters played as pups as instinct training. It came naturally to him, and felt wonderful. He eventually pulled out of the water, exhausted and panting, and lay there, unable to move.

The panting mustelid's vision was blocked an instant later as familiar icy hues bore into his own warm depths. with a seductive distinctly reptilian purr the drake snaked his nimble digits through the breathless young man's fur, caressing his cheek with sensual, delicate motions as if admiring a priceless work of art. His tone was a cool, crisp slithering wisp.

"...Exquisite."