FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Update Notes: Minor Edits as of 8/1/2020

Master of Hearts

The Lounge

“Hey…" Connor started, his heart feeling numb and weak as he looked down at his Master.

Master Newport almost cowered in front of him, it was clear he had expected to meet someone else at the front door. Over the last two days Connor had let Master Newport walk away, never saying anything to the short male, not until today; Connor thought he had built up enough strength to talk to him, but standing in front of Master Newport again only made him scratch the invisible brand with his thumbnail.

“Hey…" Master Newport returned with a nervous wave; then, there was only silence. Connor had lost his entire mind in that single moment, his mind nothing but a blank void. His Master stood still, as still as a nervous rabbit could be, hands held behind his back, he was trying to appear steady but failed entirely; everything in his eyes screamed otherwise. Master Newport's ears had fallen back against his head, and his eyes were looking everywhere but Connors. “You…umm…look good, Connor."

Connor pulled at the bear suit, he was still forced to wear every morning, and every night before school, “Do you really think so?" Connor asked sheepishly, accepting the change in conversation, just anything was better than silence.

“You make anything look amazing Connor." Master Newport complimented, the flattery seeming to escape his muzzle without consent, as he instantly cowered under the weight of his own tongue. Looking up at Connor as if expecting a thorough beating like the one Dagia had been giving him the last few days. However, his words were warm on Connor's cheeks, Connor becoming ever so flustered hearing the familiar voice he had fallen in love with since the beginning.

“Thanks… Thank you, sir." Connor stammered, his heart fracturing in his chest, splitting at the seams as he answered, throwing out a line that might cause Master Newport to understand; he did. The moment the formality came out, it was if lightning had struck the rabbit.

Master Newport was physically stunned as he started to shake with life, the pain escaping his limbs as he collapsed to the ground, crying, defeated but victorious in the end. His fingers cut lines in the concrete as he bent his head in reverence to Connor, a voiceless, begging apology that echoed from deep within, his lungs heaving his pleas, his tears writing ten thousand “thank yous" with every teardrop.

Connor was frozen in place, he didn't know what to do, he watched his Master die with joy in front of him, but was scared to touch him, in fear of shattering his feral form. But he knew he had to do something his pitiful whimpering was attracting a crowd that made Connor seek shelter behind the confines of the door.

Connor dared to reach out and tap Master Newport's head.

Then their was only the ceiling, and the heavy impact of the floor slowly pushing into Connor's mind, it took him a moment to realize there was a small lump of fur digging a burrow in the fleece of his pajamas, trying to make a home that he could never leave, shaking, Master Newport balled up on Connor's chest like a mere infant. Thankfully, Connor had escaped injury, his wounds all but healed, his bandages removed last night.

Wrapping his arms around his Master, Connor held the small male against his chest and kicked the door closed so no one could pry. Petting his Master, Connor looked back at his family, watching closely from the living room, hands on their hilts in defense; except Hammond, he just held a red rubber rocket, a dodgeball he could turn into a lethal weapon. Connor's quiet gaze said enough, and Dagia nodded, pulling her family away to give them a moment.

A moment that might well have been an hour with how stuck Connor was, any movement to stir was fought off with Master Newport curling up into a tighter ball, and sharply whining, his small hands digging into Connor's chest, not to hurt him but to stop him. Eventually, there was only silence, days of pain were finally washed away with the soft exhales of a tired, timid breath; Master Newport had fallen asleep.

Holding his Master close, Connor shuffled to the hammock outside and laid back down. Most Mincridarins were light sleepers because of always being on watch, but it seemed that built-up tension and fear finally caused Newport to collapse, his exhaustion eventually ruining him. Master Newport didn't stir, didn't tighten up or exhale, clutch in protest, he was limp, his breath silently escaping his rising and falling chest.

Connor couldn't stop himself from smiling as he started to rock the hammock back and forth with the swaying of his knee. Master Newport was supposed to be the one in charge, leading the way and making the decisions, but yet, he was broken and helpless, he looked like nothing more than a lost child in musty gym clothes.

The back door was lightly knocked, “Connor?" Dagia called out, her head peeking out of the doorway. “Do you want to get changed?"

“I uhh… I don't want to leave master Newport like this; I don't want him to wake up alone." Connor answered, and Dagia nodded.

“What an honorable slave, but don't you have that job interview in a bit? You really should get ready to go." Connor rubbed his brow, how could have forgotten something so important? Mail had found him a job in the Red Rock Mall as a waiter for a restaurant, it would be a bit exotic, but it would be perfect for him; as Mail had vaguely explained last night before bed.

“Yeah, thanks Dagia, I guess I'll be right in then," Connor answered as he pulled away from his Master, leaving him on the hammock before going inside to take a shower with Mail.

Mail still took the lead, just because he wasn't Connor's Ward anymore didn't mean Connor could escape from his “older" brother's tender love and care, so Connor was washed and bathed as usual, dressed, but thankfully in his own underwear this time; brushing his own teeth and hair, Connor took what little personal documents he had and kissed his 'family' goodbye before leaving.

However, Connor hated the lack of formality, blue jeans, a bold blood-red undershirt, and a black form-fitting vest he had gotten from Dagia; it was nothing special, just everyday clothes; and yet that was all he really had for an interview. Thanks to his parents burning all of his clothes and destroying just about everything he owned. Even his hand-built computer, they shattered it, hundreds of dollars were wasted on his water-cooled gaming system; thankfully though, he was able to recover most of the hardware, he just needed a few more parts and a new shell.

Connor stretched himself, to push out the tension from his limbs. Hopefully, this new job could be a place to start, and he could finally start returning all the time and money Dagia and Master Newport had spent on him. He could finally earn his own keep, instead of just living off his Mate and 'family' like a parasite.

“The Cavern", was one of the many buildings in what the Mincridarins called the “Lounge", a tiny red light district for the more intimate Mincridarn requirements. The Lounge, itself, was separated from the rest of the mall by a magical maze, accessed only by walking down a secluded hallway, that examined the age of souls and turned away anyone under eighteen years old. SO there were no guards, not even a security camera because there was no need; it was actually nice to not be carded for once, it was always so annoying to fish out an ID card and show it to some bouncer or manager; it was nice to have something automatic for a change.

However, the Lounge wasn't as 'red-light' as Connor had thought, it wasn't some grungy, musky shallow, dimly lit location, it was a paradise. The small domed hall was covered in grass, the ceiling though tiled rained down light, like it was an afternoon all day, and the air smelled fresh and clean. Flowering bushes created a median, and root wrapped stone benches were evenly separated on either side. While an ancient willow and luxurious deep-water pool served as the centerpiece.

But the wondrous beauty was tainted by the scandalous whines of Mincridarins fornicating, mating with one another, laying in the grass, on the benches, sitting along the rim of the lake, or even in the pool itself. Some couples also creating a small crowd, that some people watched for inspiration or joined right in.

Connor felt a sharp tug on the back of his vest, a substantial hand pulling him back, just a few inches, “Stay outside of the yellow flowers if you don't want to mate human." A muffled voice exhaled from behind, turning around Connor couldn't help but stare at the heavily clothed figure behind him, latex gloves, a gas mask with tinted lens cap eyes. The figure stuffed his hands into the black sun-bleached jacket pockets, and kept his distance, stepping back, exposing the thick cargo pants stuffed inside of black steel-toed boots.

But for as strange as the figure looked, he had a general kind presence. Whoever was behind the mask didn't feel shady or weird, they waited for Connor to say something, take a breath, and look around for the yellow flowers that were surely there behind him. Connor dusted his suit and nodded his thanks, “I don't quite know the rules of the Lounge."

“Most humans don't, it's very rare to see humans in here." The hooded shadow breathed through his mask. Connor shook his head in disbelief, horny pervs would have flocked to this place if they knew what was happening. “Really?"

“Yes, humans who try to mate with Mincridarins end up in the hospital, with broken bones, cuts, torn intestinal linings. We Mincridarins might as well be made of steel in comparison to humans, so having sex with one of us, normally means your being stabbed by a dagger or penetrating a vice…. I have seen humans lose their masculinity after penetrating both males and females, the muscle contractions cutting them 'short.' “ The male explained with a scissoring gesture kept close in front of his chest, before stuffing his hand back inside his coat.

“Plus, the magical maze that separates the Lounge from the rest of the mall examines the soul for nefarious intentions. Humans that might otherwise want to record, cause problems, or come to physically hurt anyone are already turned away at the gate. You're only allowed to come in here if you intend to work, shop, or have fun."

“Well… I'm still surprised to see so few humans, at least watching." Connor countered as he spotted a male across the way, wearing nothing but jockstrap, a beautiful African American with either sweaty or oiled skin thanks to how he kind of 'shined' like black marble; his muscular definition all too apparent thanks to his skin's wet highlights.

“The Lounge is owned by Mincridarins, it's actually under Sanctuary Hills, meaning the American government can't control or make rules or laws here, this place is essentially an embassy for Matra. The only laws that the Lounge is forced to follow are the ones that regulate business health standards and taxes. This means we have the right to do whatever we want to defend it, even if that means using very invasive magic. Magic that examines not only the nature and intentions of your soul but you're memories as well." The figure continued to explain as Connor looked around, his ears still mostly listening to everything.

Connor shook his head, “Wait, what do you mean examine memories?"

“The gate to the Lounge is enchanted with a mirage spell, and several powerful wards that not only hide the hallway from the general populace but also regulate it; allowing in only people who have been told about the Lounge by another Mincridarn. The name itself becoming a voice-activated password; you just have to hear a Mincridarn say it, and you will have access."

“That's insane…"

“And that is why the Lounge was built beneath the grounds of Sanctuary Hills." The stranger reiterated with a matter-of-fact tone, nodding his head, his presence revealing how often he had to explain everything. “But you should know this.." The stranger gestured to all of Connor, “You can leave all of that at the front desk, no one wears clothes down here."

Connor gestured to all of the stranger, “And what about you?"

“I'm a poison frog, I have to wear this or I could end up accidentally killing someone. I just come here for the toys." The stranger explained as he lifted a black bag in his hand, marked with a holographic crescent moon.

“And where did you get those?" Connor couldn't stop himself from asking.

“Night's Armory, with an 'N,' just follow the bend along with the yellow flowers, it's right next to The Cavern." The poison frog pointed out with a flex of his hand before walking away.

“Thanks," Connor waved in return.

“No problem, see you around." The figure finished, while Connor smiled, laughing at the idea, a poison frog? Why not use magic to cure himself? Connor wondered, following the yellow flower line. Pulling out his phone Connor realized he had more pressing matters and jogged to the 'The Cavern', but just as he got to the cusp of a black one way tinted window, he paused, the stranger's words echoed in his head. It made Connor look down at himself, and then out across the small field.

Everyone was naked, and maybe… he should be too. This was a Mincridarn place, maybe the best way to stand out was to try and fit in, it would help make Connor look like a team player. But was he really that desperate for a job that he would risk walking into an interview naked? It felt wrong, but Connor didn't have time to mull over every flaw. He had to act, and yes, he was desperate. He needed a job, no matter how strange it was. Mail explained the job was like being a waiter, and that was perfect for him, Connor already had all the licenses, food and alcohol and he had three years of experience. He just needed a moment to impress the manager.

Folding up his clothes as quickly as possible, Connor jogged to the entrance of 'The Cavern' and breathed in the familiar scent of meat and herbs, peeking his head around the edge of the entrance to look inside Connor was met with a dimly lit blue…Building? Room? Either way, it was designed to mimic the name.

The walls were textured with strong crags and water-worn flat stone. The floor was rough and coarse-looking; it's broken shallow lips and dips in the rock looking like a partial safety hazard, but it was just an illusion, a transparent epoxy barrier covered the surface. Connor knew this because he watched as one of the scantly clad waiters, a black wolf wearing nothing but a white thong, white leather collar, and silver lower arm braces, stepped right on top of the lip of a stone and his foot never contorted to fit the fall, so there had to be some kind of barrier between his foot and the floor. It couldn't have been glass, the floor didn't sound hollow, and glass floors? A Mincridarn would more likely shatter it by accident, it'd just be an annoying daily fix.

Stalagmites were used to create the bases of tables, while naturally formed stone crags and curving stone formed the booths along the walls. While free-standing tables were surrounded by stained Iron Bark chairs and stools. Then their was the waterfall. Tucked away in the back left corner of the restaurant, a rolling trickling water fall pooled into a recessed dining area for aquatic Mincridarins; it had to be deep because Mincridarins were diving in and out of the water as they waited for their meals. However, they were so well trained that they never splashed or made a noise, making patrons look like they were nothing but aquatic ninjas.

But most of all, everyone inside was naked, at least for the most part, some wore bandages and underwear but nothing excessive. All the waiters seemed to be wearing the same style of outfit, a thong, collar, and etched metal braces, both made to match their fur, feathers and scales.

Stepping inside the hollowed hall, Connor felt a chill run up his spine, it was like he walked through a doorway of frost, “Don't worry sir, you'll get used to it." A warm and welcoming voice greeted, a pristine white and well rounded polar bear answered, his hand came down like a blanket on Connor's back. He was wearing nothing but a thick black leather collar, arm braces, and black fabric fundoshi. He must have been one of the waiters, the menu in his hand said enough.

“I'm looking for your manager." Connor countered, and the bear seemed physically insulted with how much he suddenly slumped, “Please forgive me if I insulted you Master."

“Master?" Connor whispered, starting to piece together what Mail had meant by “Perfect for you". Shaking his head, Connor raised up his hand in protest, “No, you haven't done anything wrong… I'm here for the interview."

The bear regained himself with a slow but building shock, before finally covering his muzzle, “Oh…Ohhh, Gods… you're… The Lord Minor is going to wound himself when he sees you; please, Connor, come this way." The polar bear pushed forward, past the main restaurant floor, and the dropdown arena floor to the right, where two naked males, a Falcon, and Boar were pummeling each other using an American boxing style. They were both wearing the black leather collars and arm braces, their bleeding muzzles instilling panic in Connor as he exhaled, wondering if he was going to fight in there too, but he never had a chance to ask.

Connor was pushed past the bar lounge to the right, with a center the stage and fire poles being used by a lioness and Lion; possible twins. Their slow and pronounced movements were like nothing Connor had seen before in movies, he had never met a striper in person, but he could tell that their movements were different, it was if they were fighting, with jarring, snapping motions and smooth, flowing, swinging movements. Maybe it was a strange form of Battle Mating.

The double doors in the back were slammed open, exposing a dimly lit airlock, where food was placed out on a what best described as a dinner's counter; two waiters, a monkey and kangaroo, filled up stone trays and took them out saying nothing, not even smiling or nod, just casting a prying glance as they left. Cringing, Connor flinched at the LED bright light that burned his eyes, once he stepped into the kitchen, worked by Mincridarins and human chefs; Mincridarins wearing nothing but aprons and thin arm length leather gloves, the white-coated humans wore everything that was expected.

The kitchen was distinctly warm and was a far more pleasant atmosphere than the cold cave main floor, but Connor didn't linger in the kitchen, he was immediately pushed inside a spacious office. Clean, manicured, free of dust and grime, with bookshelves of all things, padded seats, and an 'L' shaped front-facing desk.

A powerfully built black panther cast his amber red gaze on them, saying nothing, just looking displeased, “Lord Minor, Ravinith," The bear bowed, hands instantly falling to his back, “This human is here to be interviewed."

Ravinith couldn't hide his surprise, his brow ridge taking a hike, his stunning presence relaxing from shock and pleasant surprise, but his wonderment turned to pleasure as he smirked with a huff of laughter, exposing the faintest glimpse of his fangs. Shaking his head, Ravinith stood up and revealed a red silk side split dress. Gleaming bands of silken yellow tied up the fabric, while golden chains ornamentally adorned Ravinith's naked left hip, their rings sang with his step, and he moved like a ghost. Floating across the floor, his form never bouncing or swaying, his actions just as silent as any specter.

He flexed his hand, his gold rings creating muffled clanks as he waved off the bear, and the door shut as Connor was nudged in just a step further; Ravinith tucked his hand behind his back as he circled Connor like prey. Connor did his best to not stare at the visible whipping scars that covered Ravinith's back when he passed; holding his breath and tongue, Connor silently wondered why Ravinith, such a noble feline, wore them with pride.

Then Ravinith stopped, his tail hanging just on the fringes of Connor's right eye line, flexing with smooth and gentle waves, a claw came to the center of Connor's back. “When I heard someone was desperately looking for work, I thought I might have caught another Mincridarn, but a human? Not even in my dreams would I have suspected that…" Ravinith started, his claw dragging up along Connor's spine, the smooth curve rolling across Connor's skin, his soft skin shivering under the touch, but then two warm hands came down on Connor's shoulders making him jump at the pleasant sensation. Ravinith approved with a soft laugh.

Warm shackles of flesh and bone, disciplined and restrained, applied just enough pressure to lock Connor in place, never going far enough to squeeze or hurt him; but there was also no escape. No matter how much Connor could struggle, he'd never break free. Connor sharply breathed, his breath stunted by the gentle sniffing of his skin, warm inspecting pats on his neck, the sweeping exhales that tickled his nipples…. Connor clenched his jaw, biting his breath, closing his eyes he steeled himself to not appear like some perv, but nothing could stop the jostling bounce between his legs that flexed his tight briefs, stained by the pre that was escaping his cage. “Normally, humans come to me, I don't have to hunt them down."

“I am sorry about that sir," Connor started, catching his breath as Ravinith pulled away, his sandpaper paws sweeping down Connor's arms to grab his hands, slowly bring them behind his back, crossing them; before taking the clothes from Connor's grasp and setting them down on an empty shelf to Connor's left, just within view. “Put your palms in your underwear human and keep them there," Ravinith ordered with a smooth command, his voice a purring rumble like distant thunder, a storm waiting to ruin the day. “Yes sir." Conor obeyed, and Ravinith's hands pulled away from his wrists.

“Obedient," The panther warmly noted with a purr of approval, “Respectful," he continued as he came around Connor rolling his claws across Connor's upper back, this time Ravinith's claws raked the skin, digging across the surface to create razor-thin lines across his back. Connor bit back to the pain, feeling the faintest trickle of blood run down his spine, Ravinith licked the blood from his claws, “Tender and Pure."

“Pure sir?" Connor asked as a claw came to his chin to silence him, by lifting his jaw closed.

“Impatient," Ravinith scolded, with a disapproving shake of his head, drawing Connor closer with his claw. Connor found his jaw suddenly pried open by the stiff fingers, he protested with a gagged word that was silence with the sharp claws laying into his right cheek; if he didn't want to be fish hooked, it was clear he better remain silent.

Ravinith's irises suddenly burned with floating flames, his eyes examining Connor's teeth like an unorthodox dentist, before leaning forward and sniffing Connor's breath. “Your muzzle is unpleasant, but it is nothing my dentist can't fix." Ravinith disapproved, speaking only to himself, as he let Connor go, before dipping a claw into Connor's waistband, shaking his head, “and maybe my barber as well, this excessive hair is unbecoming." Ravinith seemed to be check marking things on a mental list.

The talk of a dentist and going to a barber disturbed Connor, the one-sided conversation Ravinith seemed to be having with himself was more like how someone judged a horse that they were going to buy. Connor didn't like where his examination was going when he felt the warm curved finger tuck up under his balls and expose his masculinity. The panther's smile returned, a look of intrigue spreading over his muzzle as he stroked the cage, “Did you wear this just for me, or because you enjoy betraying your pleasure?" Ravinith finally looked at Connor, giving him silent permission to speak.

“It's more by accident, sir," Connor answered, closing his eyes to breathe. Ravinith was stroking his cage, and fondling his balls; four days of pent of pleasure finally exposed itself in the palm of Ravinith's hand; the panther however didn't mind, in fact, Ravinith almost seemed pleased by the release. “Explain human."

“I was being punished for a failure; things ended up distracting us, and I left before my Master could release me…“ Connor felt a sharp pressure on his balls as he finished, the panther appearing insulted, “Sir," Connor added, only guessing, and thankfully he was correct.

Ravinith stepped to Connor's right, circling him only for a moment before offering his soiled palm to Connor's lips, “Clean up your mess human." He ordered, his hand inches away, Connor would have to make an effort to obey, and he did, his nerves forcing him to follow. The entire moment felt wrong, and he just wanted to make it end quickly so he could leave. He wanted a job, but not if meant getting abused.

Connor's face fell into the cup of the panther's grasp, “Good human, very obedient." Ravinith complimented, his praise reminding Connor of Master Newport, but with a greater guttural pride with every word. Something about his approval felt honestly earned, more so than Master Newport's strangely enough, “Did your master give you permission to come and work for me?"

“What?" Connor answered behind his muffled lips, still licking; Ravinith seemed to be the kind of dom that would tell you when to stop, and until then, it was the sub's job to obey his word. Ravinith cupped Connor's mouth entirely and pulled his head into his dense pecs. Connor's hands pushed up against the fringes of sculpted abs, binding connor in place, while Ravinith's free hand came across his hip. His hands were pinned, and he was gagged, Connor was at the mercy of Ravinith's whim.

Connor could only nod 'Yes' in the end, the panther nodded, “Good, it's a punishable offense for a slave to work and to be put to work without a master's permission." Connor shook his head to try and break free, or at least pull away from Ravinith's hand; he was laying on this “slave" business a bit too thick, especially since it was supposed to be illegal.

“Go…" Ravinith's tone fell like a gavel in a court, punishing and silencing with a smoothest and sharpest growl that echoed under only his breath as he spoke, “Sit down and keep that muzzle shut human." He ordered as he raised his hand to let Connor go, before gesturing to a chair in front of his desk. The burning stiffness in his gaze made Connor wonder if he had insulted Ravinith with his feeble struggling, and scared that he might lash out with the slightest provocation Connor obeyed. Ravinith's intimidating deadly gaze just reminded Connor of his dad, and thus, Connor was sure Ravinith would keep his silent word.

Falling in line like a showroom dog, sitting on command and with the prim and proper position, straight back, head forward, regardless of where Ravinith was behind him. The only way Connor could comfort himself under such tension was by tightly weaving his fingers together. Connor found his breath sharp, ragged, as the pressure behind him only built, but he didn't dare look back. There was the sound of a cabinet door closing, a glass lid falling, and thick leather fumbling to the ground.

A sharp whip crack snapped at the back of Connor's neck, a mere graze, but the sharp whiplash ruined him. Connor's mind falling into a pit that reminded him nothing other than his dad, and the beating that nearly killed him. The simple blow acting as a catalyst that shattered him and making Connor erupt into a fury of tears and fumbled to the ground holding the shallow lashing on the back of his neck. “I'm sorry, please don't hurt me!"

Connor felt a hand on his shoulder, and he felt nothing but his dad, the stiff pressure trying to pull him up and expose him for another beating, so he tore away from it and hid his face between the void between the desk and the floor. “Connor Mason," a warm voice echoed in his head, a steady hand like a warm stone on the curve of his back, “I mean you no harm." Ravinith's words wrapped around Connor's mind, and purged the darkness, pulling him into the light of a familiar beach.

~\ ~~~\~~~~~ \ ~~~~\~~~~~~~~~~~ ~\ ~~~~~ \ ~~\~~~~~~~~~ \~\ ~~~~~~\~~~~~ ~

The waves lapped on Connor's ankles, they felt real, he was really there, wherever there was; but he wasn't alone, someone was behind him. Connor peaked over his shoulder, not sure what to expect, with the strange demon, and the ocean speaking to him, anything seemed possible. Still, Connor never expected Ravinith to be behind him.

The panther was wearing everything he had been wearing in the office, except now he carried a long black leather wraped whip with a diamond-shaped red crystal tip, all neatly tied up with a gold thread and hung on his right hip. Ravinith looked around at the beach and seemed impressed, but was entirely reserved, hands behind his back, his head movements the slightest things, his tail didn't even sway, it hung like a black hook behind him.

“Ravinith?" Connor asked just to be sure; Ravinith nodded.

“Yes, I am Ravinith."

“How did you get here?" Connor questioned, gesturing to the beach around him.

“I have done many wrongs today Connor Mason, please forgive me for disturbing you so completely." Ravinith bowed falling to a knee, in the smoothest motion, he rolled out his left leg and lowered himself to the ground, but what was shocking was the fact that he never set his left leg down. His leg hung in the air above the sand, as if he was scared of disturbing even a single grain with his insane formal pose.

“That didn't answer my question."

“I know, I just wanted you to know that I am sorry for what I did to you." Ravinith explained, keeping his form low, “May I please stand?"

“Yeah, sure." Connor agreed with a wave of his hand; taking a deep breath as Connor turned his attention back to the sea, wondering if maybe he might be intruding on the weird beings personal space, but there was nothing, they seemed alone for the moment.

“I am sorry my test scared you. I just wanted to test your resolve; I have had so many humans come to me looking for work, never understanding the strict rules and parameters I require. I'm sorry that I intruded. I needed to calm you down and talk to you in a safe space." Ravinith continued to evade as Connor looked back at the panther who kept his hands behind his back and his gaze low.

“Intrude?" Connor asked to get to the point of the matter, but he was also personally intrigued because Ravinith seemed to understand where they were.

“Yes, I'm sure you wouldn't understand, but what I have done, coming to this place. It's a grave abuse of my magic. I beg of you, please forgive me for invading your soulscape and manipulating your thoughts." Ravinith pressed, his entire presence had changed; he had such regal confidence before, but now, Ravinith seemed genuinely terrified, and even though he stood with poise and promise, his wavering voice ruined his façade.

“You sound just like Master Newport." Connor exhaled as he stepped more in-depth into the sea; it now washing up against his shins.

“He branded you?" Ravinith asked and Connor flinched, starting to contort himself so he could look at his lower back; his brand was there, he could see it. Connor covered the black marks with his arms and turned around, “He did it without permission, didn't he?" Ravinith's entire body seemed to sink with a single breath, he looked as if he was at fault for the branding and seemed completely disgusted with himself; clenching his jaw in frustration, “You have been nothing but mistreated by Mincridarn Masters, we have done nothing but shame the nature of what we are."

Connor tightened his hold behind his back, “Can you just tell me what's going on?"

“Of course… I owe you that much." Ravainith nodded, “You were scared, and I hurt you, you were crying; You bare scars of the mind don't you? You were abused weren't you?" Ravinith shook his head as if to say it wasn't the time to ask questions. “I have trained enough slaves to know that such terror can only come from a heart that has been abused. I didn't want to scar you so I knew I had to act quickly and settle your mind. That is-…." Ravinith breathed, he wanted to hold his tongue, but shared regardless, “I used my magic to manipulate your mind. I am a Kenlon mage; I was using my magic to manipulate your passions, to give you warmth and safety and pull you out of the darkness of your memories. I pulled us here because it seems to give you peace, I didn't know this place was your soulscape until it was already too late, I thought it was merely just a memory."

Ravinith stamped the air with his fist, as if to declare his words as fact, “I was stupid and arrogant, but I was scared myself.." Ravinith admitted painfully as he tucked his hands behind himself, “I couldn't have you running out my office so troubled. If any of the guests had seen you, it would make many suspicious. Rumors would spread and my authority as an ambassador could be questioned. So I brought us here.."Ravinith was still beating around the bush, connor could tell he was hoping to escape the explanation by being so obedient and kind, if anything, he looked like he wanted to leave more than talk; the very sand seemed to make him squirm and the gentle breeze made him flinch as if it was a near miss from a blade.

“Where are we?" Connor repeated once again, starting to grow more annoyed with Ravinith's pronoun game.

Ravinith cringed as if stabbed, but breathed and answered, “We are in your Soulscape, we are in your very soul. Coming here without permission, it's punishable by execution or a full magical suppression."

The reality finally clear, Connor nodded, but he didn't want to end the conversation just yet. If he had Ravinith as his prisoner, then maybe he could finally get some answers, “What is a Soulscape?"

“It is the mortal heaven and haven of your mind, a place one returns to in their time of need. It represents all of who you are, and it's the core of all that you are. To be here, a mage like me could manipulate the fabric and nature of this world, and destroy your mind; memories and passions, could be changed or warped. That is why coming here is punishable by beheading, and why I should leave before I disturb anything within your soul before it's too late. Please let us leave." Ravinith begged as if Connor was in control.

“I don't know how to leave," Connor explained, and what could only be described as terror; filled Ravinith's eyes, his façade shattering completely as he started to hyperventilate.

“Then…you're not the one blocking me.."

The water rippled, and Connor watched the life drained from Ravinith's eyes as they climbed. Looking above Connor and up at a being that towered over him, a being that had to be several feet taller than Connor, “Please, I'm sorry, I never meant to come here." Ravinith begged before the sea lurched forward like a firehose, and wrapped around his body before he could even react. The orb of water that he couldn't break free of seemed to do more than merely contain him. Ravinith was drowning, he thrashed but his body was bound by something invisible within the water, his muzzle was forced open, and water poured into his throat. He was going to die.

“Stop… don't kill him!" Connor countered, turning around to stop the sea.

Instead, he felt a hand warp over his face, stealing his vision and smothering his face with a sea scented cold flesh before pushing him away, saying nothing. Connor tumbled and rioted back to life as he was thrown back into reality.

~\ ~~~\~~~~~ \ ~~~~\~~~~~~~~~~~ ~\ ~~~~~ \ ~~\~~~~~~~~~ \~\ ~~~~~~\~~~~~ ~

Connor exhaled, and got to his feet and looked at Ravinith's unconscious body beside him, his body was dripping wet, he wasn't breathing. Rolling Ravinith onto his back, Connor interlocked his fingers together and locked his elbows to perform CPR. A single bouncing compression was enough to make Connor stop; he nearly broke his elbows trying to pounce on what might as well have been solid rock. Connor turned to other means.

Laying his hands flat on Ravinith's chest, Connor exhaled, and rubbed them up along wet ribs, closing his eyes he tried to manipulate the water out of Ravinith's lungs, pulling up his hands along the windpipe. Connor rolled his hands up the muzzle and pulled out cups of water from Ravinith's lungs, before casting it to the side.

Ravinith exhaled, he coughed and rolled to the side before vomiting up a bucket of seawater and what was nothing more than a diluted lunch of sushi and sashimi. He retched until his chest was empty, and then continued to dry heave for a solid minute afterward. When Ravinith was nothing but a weak mass of fur, Connor pulled the panther up into his lap and used his magic to turn saltwater scented bile into a block, and then with a simple command, “Freeze," he froze the excess solid.

“You're a Qire mage?" Ravinith asked, barely having the energy to speak; Connor shook his head, “I wish I was sir."

“I am honored by your respect," Ravinith exhaled before taking a deep required breath.

“Does this mean I get the job?" Connor asked, and Ravinith chuckled, or more like coughed with happiness, “An opportunist…if only many of my slaves were so forward," Ravinith sat up and shook his head, “I respect your charge, but there is a reason for why I tested you, and there are still things we need to discuss. I can't just give you a job when it is not earned."

“Yeah… fine." Connor exhaled, wishing it partially could have been just that simple.

Ravinith struck Connor's chest with the back of his hand, before coughing into his right, just before he started talking, shaking his head to establish himself and get a breath, he looked at Connor; his amber eyes locking with Connor's for a moment before smiling, “But for the most part, you have passed my tests." Coughing into his hand once again, he pointed to the chairs in front of his desk, “Sit," he barely muttered as he pulled himself off the floor, offering a hand to help Connor stand. Ravinith's strength wasn't there, and Connor was nearly pulled to the ground.

“Ok… That's enough, here, sir; just let me help." Connor pressed as he took the lead and wrapped Ravinith's arm over his shoulders, before helping him to the desk, sitting him down in his thickly padded woodland leather rolling chair.

His “Thank you", was barely audible; Ravinith looked like he was dying.

“It's nothing sir." Connor waved off before rolling his hands in front of Ravinith's chest and waving them in the air to pull the rest of the sea from his fur, leaving the scent of the salty brine behind. The orb of water was added to the block and frozen solid to keep everything compact. “Are you cold sir?"

“I, *cough* will be fine." Ravinith shook off the debilitating coughing fit that caused him to keel over himself, and lean on the desk for support. “Ok, sir, but no, you are not. I don't know what happened in there, but you're weak." Connor felt a sharp hand tug on his underwear, the panther growling in protest. “I am not we- *Coughing*"

Connor shook his head and pulled the hand back, and pushed Ravinith back into his chair, “You are not capable of continuing the meeting sir, you need to get some rest." Connor finished cupping Ravinith's muzzle before he could speak, “Don't make me tie you to a bed sir." Ravinith took a breath and pulled Connor's hand away, nodding, “Alright, Thank you."

“Here, I know we didn't go through any contact information, but this is my new phone number, and my email, I'm also staying at Dagia's; so send me a message when you're feeling better sir," Connor explained, taking a pen and pencil to write down everything on a small note pad beside the computer. Bowing to Ravinith the best he could in the tight quarters Connor continued, “Thank you for the interview sir, I'm sorry everything got out of hand."

“You're welcome," Ravinith exhaled, trying to regain some semblance of regality as he stiffened up, and sat his hands on his lap, retaining his cough. Still, it was hard to take him seriously when he looked so dreary, his eyes looking as if they could barely stay open.

Connor said nothing else, dressing in the office before leaving, bobbing his head to say goodbye, not bowing, but somewhere in between. Ravinith gave the simplest wave from his desk, merely raising his hand to show his appreciation before the door closed.

Trying to not look like he was running away, Connor left, keeping his gaze low, hoping the least anyone thought was that he hadn't been hired. Then once he was beyond the 'The Cavern' Connor returned to the only home he had up to that point, his mind tumbling about with everything that had happened. He couldn't even fathom where to begin: Soulscape, mind control, the drowning, execution? Each idea rolled around his head, and Connor didn't get any semblance of breath until he got to Dagia's and kicked off his shoes, slumping to the hardwood floor he exhaled and deeply inhaled; he just needed to laydown, and the wood floor was perfect.

“So I guess the interview went poorly?" Dagia asked from the side, kneeling down beside Connor.

“I don't want to talk about it." Connor groaned, mainly because with everything that happened, and possible death hanging over Ravinith's head, he didn't want to say anything that might give to much away, not even to Dagia.

“Did you not pass the Lord Minor's tests?"

“Ok… why are you saying that, is Ravinith some kind of Noble or something?" Connor asked, sitting up on the floor.

“Oh, that could be it. You really didn't know who you were talking to, did you?" Dagia probed, and Connor nodded, “All Mail did was tell me his name and when to go to the interview."

Dagia stroked the line between her eyes, shaking her head, “Connor, Ravinith is the son to one of the Six Lords of Matra, Matra's Royal Court, his father is akin to a duke by Human standards. You may have insulted him without intention, and that is why."

“Oh…" Connor blankly started rubbing the back of his head, just trying to evade the conversation because that did explain Ravinith's presence, but he was sure Ravinith wouldn't fail him for something like that; it seemed awfully petty. However, he'd have to wait and see. “I didn't know, but I was trying to be as respectful as I could."

“When you train slaves like I have, you learn that the subtle mistakes can be the most insulting. Nobles fight and live with the heavy demands of absolute perfection; if you can't provide this, then taking someone like you in would only end up shaming his name. That's probably why he didn't hire you, but don't worry, I'll ask around and see if 'I' can't find anything more suited for you." Dagia explained as she helped Connor stand up, patting down his chest, before spanking his ass with the smoothest of smiles, she wasn't trying to hurt him, it was definitely just to clear his mind.

“Thanks Dagia," Connor accepted, rubbing his butt as he walked into the living room to check on Master Newport from the glass window; he was still sleeping.

“Master Newport hasn't stirred since you left." Dagia assured as she came up from behind and pulled at Connor's shoulder so he faced her, “Are you hungry? I'll make breakfast before I have to go."

“Thanks Dagia," Connor accepted, earning him a kiss on the cheek and playful flip of his hair, “Alright LD, go sit down."

“Yes 'mom'," Connor playfully answered as he sat down, catching only the ends of a fur spiking flinch as Dagia gathered herself. Then with a sharp shake to her head, she tried to pull herself back into reality and make breakfast, but the kitchen appeared to be a complicated math equation in front of her. Dagia opened up drawers and cabinets, until she finally found the eggs she was looking for in the fridge.

“eggs… That's right," nodding her head, she turned to the refrigerator to start cooking.

It wasn't long after the scent of warm eggs filled the kitchen, along with the fragrant roasting of toast, that the back door slid open. Master Newport opening the door, “Morning sir, sleep well?" Connor teased, as the rabbit hopped up to a chair beside him. Master Newport tried to smile, but he was still very weak. However, it was warm and settled, it looked like he still had a lot to say, “Connor, I don't think I could ever say sorry enough for what I have done to you; and I don't deserve your forgiveness, but I hope I can set things right. As your Master, and as your Mate, I promise you that I will never betray you like that ever again."

“I know, but because of what you did, Dagia agreed to watch over me for the time being, just until I feel safe again."

“Connor, yes, of course, anything that makes you happy, please, just tell me what to do, and I will do it. I will do 'anything' to set things right." Master Newport agreed, nearly stumbling over his own words as he reached out and touched Connor's shoulder, something he quickly retracted when he was finished, “Sorry."

“Dagia told me that if I was ever going to settle anything, I needed to punish you; so that there are no regrets between us. So I have been thinking about what to do to make things right for the last couple of days, and I have two things I want you to do for me." Connor declared as he looked at Master Newport who sat on his knees, patiently waiting for Connor's command, “I will humbly obey."

“You branded me with something that can never be removed, I want to brand you in the same way; so you never forget what you did."

“And I will obey." Master Newport nodded, but Connor wasn't finished, the brand was to easy of a task, Connor still needed something else to really get under Master Newport's skin, he needed him to do something he would otherwise absolutely refuse to do.

“Master Newport, whenever I command it, I want you to wear diapers, and you will do so until I say otherwise." Connor added, his Master shutting down completely, his mouth gaping at Connor's proclamation, he clenched his muzzle, and closed his eyes in pain as if accepting his own execution, “I humbly accept. I swore to do anything; I will not break my word."

“I know, but I promise not to abuse you, you're diaper-wearing will stay between us." Connor gestured to the two of them, Dagia included. “and I won't force you to wear any to work or out in public."

Master Newport breathed with a sharp relaxing sigh, “You are very kind Connor, thank you."

“The same rules apply though when I'm in diapers, just in reverse, you don't change without my permission, and only Dagia and I are allowed to change you." Connor explained, and Master Newport cringed as Dagia came back over to the table, setting down a simple breakfast, “You gave Dagia permission to change me and take care of me, I'm giving her all the same permissions. She is you're Cubsitter whenever I need her to be, and you will obey her commands as if they were my own."

“I understand; is that all?" Master Newport so wearily asked seeming to dread any other additions.

“No, if you can obey being put in diapers, I know you're serious. I know how much you hate the idea of looking like a runt, let alone a cub for that matter, so just do what I say, and I won't have Dagia spank you, ok?" Connor assured as Dagia came up behind Master Newport, hoisting him up from the back of his tank top.

“Speaking of spanking." Dagia dangerously chuckled, Master Newport's struggling instantly ceasing as he soon started to grasp the terror that she could easily be; he gulped looking at Connor for help, but Connor just waved him off and went to eating his breakfast. Master Newport looked so betrayed, and was whimpering before he even left the living room. The far-away nursery shut, and a moment later, his cries echoed out; Connor smiled. He wasn't used to having control, let alone being a dom, but he could get used to that kind of power; at least now he had a way to be a proper switch whenever he wanted to be.

But breakfast came and went, with Master Newport coming back a whimpering mass of fur that just ended up curling in Connor's lap to keep the pressure off his tail end; his tail hiked up, shivering from the burning warmth that grabbed his rear. Connor knew better than to tease and just took his Master into his arms and pulled him up into his chest, holding him up by bracing his knees. Saying goodbye and thanking Dagia for everything, especially the meal, Connor left to go to his new home.