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Virtually Real Part 2: Altercations and Alterations

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I woke with a start. Or more appropriately with a kick. I wasn't sure which kit it was, but Bit seemed the best bet. I carefully slipped out of bed and headed to the bathroom. After taking care of my morning duties I checked my injuries and grimaced at the forming bruise.

"House, time."

"You are awake early today, the time is 8:46am. The planned weather for today is sunny until 2pm. At that time large white clouds will move in. At 8:30pm there will be light rain showers. The showers will clear at 2am. Do you wish to make changes?"

"Yes, have the light showers build into a full thunderstorm by 10pm and then taper off by midnight."

"Do you wish to make any changes to the current subjects?"

"Yes, reduce Bit's need for sex by thirty percent. The current setting makes him come off as a sex addict. He should be willing but not needy."

"Very good, Sir. Any other program changes?"

"Yes, set up a permanent residence in town for use as a fixed portal point and drop the magic rock effect. I think simply requesting a portal would be better."

"Do you wish to keep the random world building event program running?"

"Yes, for now anyway. However, lock out the possibility of cubs younger than twelve years old being sold at the auctions."

"Will the change be just when you are present or a complete program change?"

“Complete program change and make it a Royal Decree, as well. Also have a decree that no slave is to be altered before being sold except in the cases of Royal mandated punishments. Any owner can still have his slave 'fixed' but must continue to own the fixed slave for at least a year before auctioning it. Finally a decree should be made that the buying and selling of slaves as food is forbidden. Anyone found partaking of this activity will be fixed and consigned to slavery for life as a hard laborer. Also for the rest of their likely short lives they will only be allowed a ration of bread for food."

"Will there be anything else?"

"No that is all of the program revisions for now. Everything else, for today, will take place in program"

"Very good, the King is making his final revisions on the decree now and it will take effect by noon."

"On to the next topic, for breakfast I was thinking blueberry pancakes accompanied by sweetened fresh berries for Bit. Conner gets bacon, sausage and eggs with his pancakes. I'll have the same as Conner. After breakfast Conner gets a dental biscuit and Bit gets a mint stick to clean their teeth."

"The Chef program is running, Sir. You are planning on going into town today, shall I lay out appropriate clothing for everyone?"

"No, this trip will be for Conner. Bit will remain here. His tasks for today are to start learning to read. If he gets board or frustrated he can start the self-defense training. If we're not back by lunch you can suggest different options that he might like."

"Is that all, Sir?"

"Yes."

The door swung open and Conner sluggishly made his way toward the toilet.

"Bit kicked me out of bed."

"Did you say something to upset him?"

"No, I mean he kicked me and I ended up on the floor"

"Oh."

I gave him some privacy to do his business as I brushed my hair. He soon came out and washed his paws.

"If it helps you're not the only one." I showed him the bruise on my thigh. "It's probably nightmares. I'm sure he'll settle down once he gets used to being here. Now, House is getting breakfast ready so go down to the kitchen and let him know how you like your eggs while I go and wake Bit."

"I'm awake, and I'm sorry if I hurt anyone. But I dreamt that Daddy wasn't the one who bought me and I was about to be eaten and I was fighting to get away."

I knelt down and pulled Bit into a hug.

"Don't worry, yesterday while you were napping, I was able to get an audience with the King. I asked him to consider making that horrible practice illegal. Hopefully by the time Conner and I get back from paying off his debts I'll have some good news for you."

"I have to stay here alone?"

"Technically yes, but House will be starting your reading and writing lessons."

"Do I have to?"

"Believe it or not, many of the books in the library are even more exciting to read than watching a movie. Actually, have your teacher show you the graphic novel section. I think you'll like all the pictures and they'll encourage you to learn faster so that you'll know what the characters are saying. Now, take care of your business and then come down to the kitchen and let Chef know what kind of sweet berries you want on your blueberry pancakes."

* * *

We stepped out of the portal into a single room apartment with a window looking out on the castle moat. The main features of the room were a ragged straw stuffed bed, a wardrobe with missing doors, and a small writing desk.

"Where are we?"

"This is a room that I rent to use as a portal point. If I need something delivered I have it sent here and then House brings it into his domain. Mainly this is where I have all my messages delivered. When we leave memorize this location. If anything happens and I tell you to go home, or we get separated, come here and House will open a portal for you."

"Yes, Sir."

"Now let's take care of your debts."

It took all morning, most of the time spent trying to track down each merchant, but by noon we'd paid nearly everyone on Conner's list. We ended up at a small bread shop near the city exit.

"Is this the last one?"

"No, I never stole anything here. It's just- I want to thank the owner's wife and let her know, even though I'm now a slave, you're giving me a better life than I had on the street. She's the only one that fed me and seemed to care how I was doing even though her husband would pretend to get really mad when he'd see me. However, he never chased me off. I actually saw him once waiting until I'd finished eating before entering the kitchen and chasing me out."

"Well, it seems they are owed a little something then."

As we walked in I was surprised to see that the owner was a mouse. The very last species I had expected to be giving comfort to a fox.

"I see you there, you little sneak thief. Trying to slip in with a customer now? Out! Out I say!"

"Sir, that is my slave you are talking to, according to the law I have every right to keep him in my sight at all times."

Instantly the old mouse's whiskers drooped, his eyes looked like he was on the verge of crying, and I distinctly heard a sniffle.

"Your slave?"

"Correct."

"What is all the yelling out here about?"

The Baker's wife entered the room with a rolling pin looking more threatening than any predator.

"It's that fox- it's Conner, he's been sold as a slave."

"He's what!"

"Mrs. Baker, I was caught by the guard and put on auction. If it wasn't for my new master I'd have been executed, since no one else wanted to buy a starving little fox thief."

"Conner, don't say things like that about yourself. Your Mother raised you better than that and it would really upset your father, God rest his soul."

"So you knew his parents. That explains why you did what you could to help him."

"Yes, they were gentle furs. His father helped me build this shop before he was executed."

"Wait, why was he executed?"

"A Lord in the kingdom of Viros heard about his wood working skill and hired him to redecorate his town house. Paul didn't want to be away from his family as long as the job would take, but I convinced him that the money was too good to pass up."

"Honey, Karen told you a hundred times she didn't blame you for what happened."

"Um, Mr. Baker, what did happen? Mom only ever told me that he died in an accident."

"It took nearly two years to finish the job and the Lord was impressed with the work. So impressed in fact that he had your father executed so that no one else could ever claim to have such a beautiful house."

"At least he didn't have it long. He was so boastful that word quickly spread that's how we learned what happened. He even pointed out that he didn't have to pay for it. Karen was so angry that she petitioned King Lorinnik to request that Viros' government force the Lord to pay reparations for the death of her husband, or at least for the work he had completed. Viros, of course, refused."

"Everything else is just a rumor, but it is believed that the King was so mad that he sent his Shadow to teach Viros a lesson. That night, so the rumor goes, both the Lord and his beautiful house vanished. Only a hole in the ground marked where it had been and since then every time they try to fill in the hole it all sinks as though it can never be filled."

"I'm sure it could have been filled, if Viros had paid for the work and reparations. After what has happened to Conner and his mother, Viros is going to need to find another capital. The hole is going to start growing until it consumes the whole city."

"What about all the poor people that didn't have anything to do with my Dad's death? They're the ones that will be hurt. The rich Lords will just move but the poor don't have that option."

"So, Conner, if you had the power what would you do?" I asked.

"I'd make the Lords fix the hole by building a place where the poor can get fed without needing to steal, and then pay to feed any children that need meals at least once a day. It'll cost them more but that is the choice they made."

"What if they don't do it?"

"I'd make them think whatever happened to my Dad's killer would start happening to them."

"Conner, while I'm happy you belong to me now, I really wish I could have done something to help your father. Now why don't you take one of those tasty looking meat pies out front and-"

"He most certainly will not. He'll come back to the kitchen for a big bowl of stew and a sweet bun after." Mrs. Baker stated slapping the roller into her paw.

"He may be your slave, but I really wouldn't argue with her if I were you. Especially when she's wielding that rolling pin."

"Go along then, but don't forget to wash your paws before you eat!"

"Heh, if I didn't know better I'd think you really care for him."

"He may be my slave, but that doesn't mean I don't care for him. In fact most would probably say I care too much. After all, how many slave owners would pay off their slave's former debts, make sure he gets a good education, and give him the freedom to speak his mind if he isn't happy."

"So if he wanted to be free you would free him?"

"If that is what he wants in ten years, then yes, I'll free him."

"Ten years!"

"Yes, it is mandatory that a legal slave remain with the same master for ten years before he can be freed. Now that Conner and your wife are occupied we can get down to business. How much do you think you are out due to the care you and your wife gave Conner?"

"Nothing, I only wish we could have done more."

"You really drive a hard bargain, you know that? Here are two gold, a further eight will be held for you in trust at the castle."

"Ten gold! That- That-“

"Not enough? Fine, I'll throw in this old scroll as well."

"This- This is sealed with the crest of the King's Shadow!"

"You don't say? Then I'm sure waving it at the guards will get you into the castle to withdraw your gold whenever you need it. Oh, and I should point out if you're ever in dire need, breaking the seal will summon the King's Shadow. Let me just reinforce the fact that you better be sure that it is a dire emergency because the summons only works once and he isn't the type of individual you want to anger."

"Are- Are you-"

"One of the few individuals who knows his real identity? Yes I am. I'm also one of two people trusted enough to be able to decide if someone is deserving of a summoning scroll. I'm pretty sure the Shadow didn't know about Conner and his mother, if he had he would have helped them. Trust me, he is already irritated after I told him Conner's story. Things are going to go very badly for the guard that took his mother. I only hope that I can find her otherwise-".

"No need to put Conner through that. The guard was forcing her to work in a brothel but he killed her. She was causing more trouble than profit. We, my wife and I, didn't tell Conner because he had enough problems just trying to survive."

"When the Shadow is finished with him, that wolf is going to beg for death. He won't get it of course, at least not for many years. Do you, by any chance know the guard's name?"

"His name is Grinder, he's a Captain in the City Guard. He's the reason we couldn't let Conner stay here. Grinder makes daily rounds in order to collect 'protection taxes' from all the local businesses."

"Why hasn't he been reported?"

"He has been, but the ones reporting him seem to disappear."

"You could go to the King."

"There is too much chance we'll be caught before we can get an audience. It's just easier and safer to pay his 'taxes'."

"The King's Shadow has already opened an investigation. Do you think, if you are summoned to the castle, you could give testimony about the crimes Grinder has committed?"

"If the King summons me I`ll have no other choice."

"True, but it might help if you have a few other shop owners also willing to speak out against him."

"I might be able to convince a few others, but they're going to be scared that they'll get into trouble."

"Show them the scroll and tell them that they have the Shadow's protection in this matter."

"But-"

"The Shadow will honor the deal, you'll be protected. If there are any repercussions I'll be the one who'll be dealt with instead. Now, do you think Conner can stay here for a little while? I need to see if Grinder registered Karen with the Slave Guild, or if they have any record of him owning slaves for that matter."

"It should be alright, Grinder has already visited us this morning."

"Good, I think Conner is hoping that I'll be able to save his mother, and frankly I'd hoped that as well, but now that I know it isn't possible I'd rather not have him learning her fate at the guild office. Actually, it might be best if he learns of it when Grinder is being judged."

"That's cruel."

"It's even worse when you take into account that I can't be there to comfort him."

"Why can't you be there?"

"If I'm there the argument can be made that, as his Master, I am controlling what he is allowed to say."

"I suppose that makes sense."

"If Conner learns what happened to his mother there, both King Brun and his Shadow will see his true reaction and know how vile Grinder really is."

"Go and do whatever you need to. We'll look after Conner until you get back."

"Thank you. Conner, I've a few errands to take care of. I want you to stay here until I get back. Try to stay out of trouble."

"Yes, Sir."

As expected after an exhaustive search through the guild records they couldn't finding any information on Grinder, Karen, or a female fox being registered with either of the town's brothels in the correct time frame. So either there was an illegal establishment or one of them wasn't being diligent with registration as the law required. I immediately asked for a meeting with the Guild Master only to find him at the front desk trying to deal with an irate customer.

It was obvious from his garb, a simple loincloth, the horse wasn't from town. Likely he'd just arrived from the wild lands east of the city. With him were twin colts. Their hands tied behind their backs, mouths tied shut, and rope leads around their necks.

"Listen, I don't care if the auction was yesterday, I can't have these two around my mares. Not after what I caught them doing."

"I'm sorry, but the auctions are only on Mondays. We can only accept new stock Friday through Sunday. If you return then I'll be more than willing to-"

"And I told you I can't be away from my herd that long."

"You could always have them gelded."

"No, I can't. I went there first to have them gelded before selling them only to learn that now I have to keep them a year before I can sell them and I can't afford to keep a couple of geldings for a year."

I sighed. I could tell from the Master's face that he expected the argument to continue until the horse couldn't yell any longer. Considering what needed to be done I didn't have time to wait. So I stepped in.

"I'll give you four gold for both of them and cover the Guild fees."

Both the Guild Master and the horse snapped their heads toward me.

"What?"

"I have important matters to discuss with the Master and it seems the only way that's going to happen is if you sell your twins. So, I'm making it easy for you."

"I want four gold each."

"I'll give you five gold total or you can risk taking them back among your mares for a few days."

"Sir, I really do suggest you take his offer. That is quite a bit more than you're likely to get at the open auction."

"Will you be gelding them?"

"Maybe, maybe not, once they are my slaves it is no longer any of your concern."

"Fine, I'll take it."

I pulled five gold coins from my purse and handed them to the assistant.

"Make sure all the paperwork is filled out and take all fees out of my account. If there isn't enough to cover it you can collect the rest from me when you bring me the registration papers."

"Come along sir, there are just a few papers for you to fill out and then you can go."

Fifteen minutes later I stepped out of the rapidly mobilizing Guild hall. The Master had been very interested in my findings and was marshalling all the guild members for a simultaneous inspection of both brothels to discover which one was shorting the Guild its fees. The colts hung their heads in resignation and weren't fighting against their leads.

"Now, I'm going to remove the rope from around your muzzles. I expect you to behave in a civilized manner."

I removed the rope from the slightly smaller twin's muzzle.

"Were you informed of the rules governing slaves and what would happen to you if you try to escape?"

"Yes, Master. May I ask a question?"

"You just did. However you can both relax so long as you behave I have no intention of gelding you."

"Thank you, Master."

I removed the rope from the other twin and then started removing the rope binding his hands. Seeing the raw and bloody skin beneath, I pulled out my knife and cut the ropes quickly doing the same for the smaller one.

"Are you tied anywhere else?"

"What?"

"The one that sold you mentioned that he was going to have you gelded. I'm asking if he tied you down there."

*Redacted*

"I didn't . . . I mean Key, isn't my twin he's my little brother. Master."

"Key?"

"My name is Whiskey but I prefer to be called 'Key' and my brother is Shotglass or Shot, though you'll probably make us change them."

"No, I'm not like a lot of other slave owners, and you don't have to keep calling me Master. My methods are much more informal, though there are rules you'll need to learn, but we'll get into that later. So, judging by what just took place I'm guessing that the two of you weren't after the mares."

"No, like you, just about everyone believes we are twins, so we were trying to find out if we had any differences.

*Redacted*

"Of course that was when Dad caught us. We couldn't say anything as he yelled at us. Though even if we told him what we were doing I don't think it would have changed anything. Anyway, before we could react he'd already tied me up and had started tying up Key. I tried to tell him that we weren't doing anything, but that just got our mouths tied shut."

"We didn't try to fight back until we arrived in town and he started ranting on about making sure we would never touch a mare because we'd never be stallions." Shot said.

"Well, he's partially right you'll never touch a mare. However, judging by your actions I don't think you'll have a problem with that, since you have each other."

"But, we're brothers." Key quickly said.

*Redacted*

They glanced at each other in confusion as I led them into the bakery.

"Conner, are you ready to go?"

"Yeah, I'm ready."

"Excuse me, but has Conner been trying to make us feel better about the fact he is your slave, or are you really planning on giving him an education?"

"He'll be taught to read and write as well as math, and self-defense. Beyond those basics he'll have the option to choose to learn other skills if he wants. Art, cooking, and wood working to name a few but really he'll be allowed to learn whatever interests him."

I noticed the colts giving each other a surprised look. I turned and looked directly at them.

"Conner isn't the only one. All of my slaves are allowed to better themselves."

"Hey Dad, who're they?"

"Conner, these are your new brothers, Shot and Key."

"Welcome to the family. Dad, are we headed back to House now? You've paid off all of my debts and I've thanked Uncle and Aunt Baker for helping me."

"We'll make a quick stop back at the lodging house. Key and Shot can get to know Bit and House. As for the two of us we still have important business to take care of."

"We do?"

"Yes, you're going to help me find a wolf guard, make sure he is arrested, and then you'll be telling the King what happened to you."

"I- I'll be- I'll be talking to the King!"

"Yes, you'll tell the King and his Shadow what Grinder did to you and your Mother. That way he'll be punished for his crimes and he'll never be able to hurt anyone else."

"You'll be there, right?"

"Unfortunately I can't be there since I'm your Master. If I'm there Grinder could claim that you're only telling the King what I want you to say."

"Don't be afraid, Conner, I'll be there with you to tell the King about how Grinder has been forcing the shop owners to pay him protection money."

"Now, before we leave have you had enough to eat?"

"Yes, I don't think I could fit in another bite."

"That's good to know, you're going to need your energy. Key, Shot, you may each choose two items as a treat. Don't think I haven't noticed the looks you've been giving those fruit pies. Once you've made your choices Conner will lead you back to our room while I settle up the bill."

As they made their choices I carefully noted the price and quickly placed the silver and copper coins on the counter.

"You've owned Conner about a day and those two less than an hour and you're trusting them to actually do what you want?"

"I'll be keeping an eye on them from a distance. However, Conner already knows living with me, even as a slave, is a lot better than trying to survive on his own. While those two have their mouth's full he'll be telling them just what they have to look forward too. Hearing his first hand experiences is worth more than anything I could ever tell them. Now, if you'll excuse me I'd better get moving if I want to keep them in sight."

As I stepped out of the Bakery I distinctly heard "A fool and his money-" I laughed to myself. I might be parting with my money but I was getting trust in return so I certainly didn't feel like a fool, but then what fool really does?

"Ah crap. Computer, shut off the random event generator." As I neared the lodging house I found my slaves and a young wolf being assaulted by two other wolves. One wearing town guardsman armor, holding Conner by the neck and

*Redacted*

"Command, Shadow Cloak."

Immediately I was transformed into my King's Shadow guise. Then I approached the brawl.

"Stop struggling, Doe Bitch. I'll cut your balls off, after cutting the collar off my fox slut."

"You can't do that! He's a registered slave." The second wolf argued.

"I don't give a shit. It was mine first so I'm taking it back. You weren't concerned about the law when I told you what I had planned for your tail raising son."

"And what was that, if I might ask?"

"Fuck off, this doesn't concern you!"

I laughed, Grinder hadn't even bothered to glance at me but the other wolf had. He also recognized me as the King's Shadow as the growing puddle around his feet proved.

"Get back to your pack. You're no longer welcome in this town."

He released the brothers and bolted. That did get Grinder's attention.

"Now please release those cubs."

"Listen, this fox was stolen from me and the wolf is my property so-".

He finally looked at me and froze.

*Redacted*

Grinder immediately released Conner as he dropped to the ground curling into a fetal position cupping his possibly destroyed testicles. I ignored him as I checked on the wolf pup. He was also curled up on the ground and sobbing uncontrollably. I pulled a collar out of my cloak and slipped it around his neck.

"I'm sorry about this, but it is the only way to guarantee you have a better life. Now, can you walk?" The wolf didn't even react to my question.

"You two, help him up. If he can't stand then carry him. Conner, tell your master what happened here and that he needs to go and register this wolf as soon as possible."

"You're- You know my name?"

"I know who you belong to because of your collar. The King met with your master yesterday and he told him about his new fox slave that had been mistreated by a city guard. I'm guessing that this refuse is the guard you've had trouble with in the past?"

"Yes."

"Alright, you four get to your room in the lodging house, you'll all be safe there. Give your master my message as soon as he arrives. I'd escort you myself, but I need to dump this thing in a hole until his trial later this afternoon."

*Redacted*

"Get up." I commanded.

"My balls." Grinder whimpered.

"I said get up, or should I remove the source of you reluctance to move?"

It didn't take long to walk to the castle but his moaning and whimpering continued. At the main gate I transferred him into the care of Sir Ren. The elephant was one of the oldest castle guards, but still more than capable of taking down a battalion on his own. He was also completely loyal to the crown, having served three separate kings. Grinder had no chance of escaping and any attempts at bribery would be added to his list of crimes.

Next I opened a shadow portal to the Slave Guild Hall. Of course the place was empty other than a young apprentice mouse sitting at the front desk.

"I'm sorry sir, but the Guild is closed at the moment. If you come back in a couple of hours I'm sure someone will be able to help you."

"I'm not exactly here on business."

"As I said-"

"I would like to leave a note for the Master when he returns. Can you write or must I do it myself?"

"I can write, sir."

"Then begin:

Guild Master Reginald,

Master Lightstripe, is in a rather unique situation. He will be bringing in a wolf slave, I have already collared and placed in his care, to be registered. While I realize he has already completed his one allowed transaction for today this new slave will be added to that one transaction rather than being considered a second transaction.

Yes, I realize that it is a break in protocol but the slave in question was another victim of the Guardsman Grinder situation. The wolf was in need of medical attention. Owing to the fact that Lord Lightstripe's slaves were the only individuals nearby, likely with his Lordship watching them from a distance to test their loyalty, I left the wolf in their care. I feel justified in turning the pup over to him as he has ever been a loyal subject of the King.

Sincerely, the King's Shadow"

The mouse gulped and slowly looked up as he finished writing.

"My Lord-".

"I know, it was probably longer than it needed to be so I'm sorry for making you write all of that. Now if you'll give me the quill I'll sign it while you get the wax so that I can place my seal to make it official."

"Y-yes, Sir."

"There, see, you were able to help me complete my business on your own. Now here is a silver for you and this black coin is for the Master."

"A black coin? How much is that worth?"

"It really doesn't have any value except between Guild Masters, High Lords, and Kings. It is a status symbol more than money. Oh, if he asks tell him I gave you a silver and that since it was a gift he isn't allowed to count it as guild earnings or hold it against your regular wages. If he does I'll be back to have a word with him about the meaning of MY gifts."

I left the poor mouse in stunned silence. I exited the Hall and found a secluded spot.

"Open a portal to the entrance of the lodging house at the point where the slaves shut the door to Lord Lightstripe's room and remove Shadow Cloak."

I stepped out of the portal and ducked into the lodging house. I ran up the stairs and flung open the door.

"Conner, are you alright?"

"Yeah, my neck hurts a bit but that's all."

"Key, Shot, what about you two?"

"Key and I are fine. Just some scratches and maybe a couple of bruises. It's the wolf you need to worry about."

"What?"

The horses stepped aside so I could see the wolf teen curled on the bed.

"What happened, and is that one of my collars?"

"What did you see?"

I crawled onto the bed and pulled the wolf against me. He started to struggle and I immediately released him. Strangely he grabbed my arms and wrapped them back around himself.

"You're safe, no one will hurt you here. Tell me what happened."

"The Alpha caught me with my mate. I knew he would never understand or accept that his own son had fallen in love and mated with a male outside our pack and species. Naturally we ran but the Alpha caught me. He brought me into the city to be punished by Uncle Grinder in order to avoid the embarrassment of the pack finding out what I had done."

The wolf was speaking rapidly and in a flat and emotionless voice. I pulled him closer and whispered in his ear.

"Just let it all out, I won't punish you for anything you say."

*Redacted*

"That's not going to happen. I promise you I'll find a way to warn your mate, even if I have to get help from the King and his Shadow."

"That's probably where we arrived. I wasn't paying close attention since I was telling Shot and Key what to expect when we get to House, and really it isn't out of the ordinary to see a trio of wolves proving dominance. The first I realized something was wrong was when I was grabbed by my collar and dragged to Grinder. I didn't even get a chance to complain when the King's Shadow arrived."

"After what Uncle did to me all I could think was I needed to get free so I pushed as hard as I could and broke free, but I think I really broke something. I'm sorry, I know I'm your slave, but I don't think I will be for long."

I looked at the bed cover and realized that the dark color was hiding the fact that it was wet. I gasped as I realized just how much blood the wolf had been losing."

"Portal now! Take us directly to medical and the other three to the front gates. Conner, take care of the front yard part of the tour."

I stepped through into the main surgical suite and placed the wolf on the bed.

"What's your name?"

"Gnaws Sticks, but my mate called me Sticks."

"Alright Sticks, this is going to be a very strange experience for you. I'm going to place a mask over your muzzle. It will release a gas that will make you fall asleep. When you wake up you'll be completely healed. Do you think you can trust me enough to not panic when I put the mask on you?"

"I- I'll try."

"That's all I ask. I'm putting the mask on now. You're doing good, now here's the hard part, take a deep breath."

He tensed up, but the gas was extremely fast working and his vitals showed that he was unconscious. I quickly removed the mask and moved Sticks from the table to a med tube and sealed it. It cycled filling to his neck line with pink restorative gel. Tubes lowered to Sticks' head and miniature robot arms began threading them into his nostrils. Once the tubes reached his lungs the arms pulled away and the med tube finished filling with the gel.

"How long until full recovery?"

"Immediately, on your orders of course'"

"How long until natural recovery?"

"Three hours."

"So, I'll be taking him to be registered after the trial."

I sighed and headed out to make sure the others hadn't gotten into any more trouble. I stopped by the locker room first to retrieve two new collars. As I stepped out of the house I found Conner and Bit arguing with Shot and Key at the front gate.

"Why should we have to give up our clothes when you two are fully dressed?"

"Because-".

"Conner, Shot has a point, strip and dispose of your clothes."

"DaAad."

"I won't have you going before the King in clothes that Grinder has soiled."

Instead of complaining Conner rapidly tore off his clothes and dropped them in the bin.

"Good, now run upstairs, take a quick shower, and change into fresh clothes."

He immediately took off.

"Bit, since you're not likely to be doing any more training you need to return your training suit to your locker. After that I want you back out here."

"Yes, Daddy."

"Alright, Shot, strip."

"Out here in the open?"

"Are you trying to make me think you need to be disciplined?"

"No, Sir."

He sighed and removed his loincloth. I took it and examined it closely. I was surprised to find that it was actually made of woven hair. It had a subtle but unique pattern to it.

"Is this important to you, other than as clothing?"

"No."

"That's not true, our loincloths are made by our mother with hair from her own mane before we are born. As we grow they are enlarged by weaving in hair kept from sires and dams back through the generations."

I grabbed Shot by his nostrils and yanked downward forcing him to his knees.

"You do not lie to me. Don't tell me what you think I want to hear. Even If you think something might upset me it's better than lying about it because that just makes me really mad. Got that?"

"Yes, Sir."

"House, send a chastity cage for Shot out with Bit. In addition Shot and Key's loincloths are to be carefully laundered and placed in their wardrobe. Key, good I see you've already stripped please place the clothing in the basked attached to the wall. House will take care of the rest."

"Daddy, House told me to bring this basket to you, what's it for?"

*Redacted*

"Good, now I better go and see what is taking Conner so long."

I picked up the chastity device and placed it in the basket with the loincloths for cleaning and headed toward the house.

I found Conner curled up in a ball on his bed whimpering and shaking. I carefully pulled him into a hug.

"What's wrong?"

"I- I thought I was safe and because I wasn't paying attention he caught me."

"Shh, Conner, it's okay. If the Shadow hadn't arrived to save you when he did I would have gotten there and saved you in plenty of time."

"What if he gets loose during the trial?"

"He won't, but let's say he does break free. He'll be surrounded by the King's Guard so he wouldn't make it very far and even if he could get past them he would be stopped by the King's Shadow."

"But their first duty is to protect the King."

"Actually the Shadow's duty is to protect the people from harm. That is why everyone respects him and criminals fear him. Even the King, if he starts unjustly harming the innocent, he has to have a justified reason or the Shadow will punish him."

"What if the King's Shadow goes bad?"

"His power comes from the people if he goes bad he'll lose his powers and a more worthy individual will discover that they have become the new Shadow."

"So who is the Shadow?"

"Maybe I am."

"Yeah, right."

"Only one person knows the Shadow's real identity and that is the Shadow, himself."

"But he seems to know you really well."

"That's because he spent a lot of time here learning from House how to create shadow portals to other places and worlds. I know he is human like I am, but I've never seen him without his cloak and mask. Now enough questions, are you ready to tell the King what Grinder did to you and your mother?"

"I guess."

"House, open a portal to the boarding house."

I frowned as we arrived, the bloody blankets were still on the bed.

"I guess while you are busy with the King I'm going to have to clean this place up."

Conner laughed as we headed out the door.

At the castle gates Sir Ren stopped us.

"I'm sorry, Lord Lightstripe, but this is as far as you are allowed to escort your slave today. I'll be taking him inside."

"Daddy?"

"It's okay, Conner. Sir Ren may look big and scary but he is one of the King's nicest guards. If anything you'll be safer with him than you would be with me. Plus he has a secret, when he isn't on duty he spends his free time babysitting the children of visiting nobles."

"Lord Lightstripe, I suggest you scurry back into the tree you fell out of before I thunk you on the head with my war hammer."

Conner laughed as Sir Ren winked at him and I ran as though in fear of my life desperately trying not to laugh at Sir Ren's ploy to help Conner relax.

Once back at the boarding house I reset the room to the clean setting and then opened the new doors on the wardrobe. I quickly changed into my full combat armor, cloak, and mask, then stepped through a portal into the Shadow room in the castle. As I exited two guards were standing at attention.

"That's better than yesterday but it doesn't make up for the laziness since you knew I was coming."

I walked down the hall and found Conner sitting with the baker and several other shop owners. I knelt down in front of him.

"Conner, I'm sorry for what has happened to you. After what happened to your father I should have done more to make sure you and your mother were protected."

"C-can you help my Mom?"

"Oh Conner, even with my abilities there are some things I cannot do."

"Everyone, if you will now enter, the prisoner has been securely bound and the King is ready to begin once everyone is seated."

I nodded to the guard and then shadow stepped into the King's planning room.

"Ah, there you are I was starting to think you had decided not to attend."

"That is probably what I should do however I'm not going to. Before we start the case I have some evidence to present since the victim is unable to attend the trial."

I quickly filled the King in on the events of the morning and of Grinder's actions against Sticks and the pup's near fatal wounding.

"If I didn't know better I'd think you were trying to influence my decision."

"No, my King, I was careful only to present the facts as I witnessed them. As well as convey the wolf pup's condition as Lord Lightstripe reported it to me, without bias. There is much more that I've learned but that information is best heard from the witnesses themselves."

"Then let us begin."

We entered the room and the King sat on his throne while I stood well back and to his left.

"First I will hear from the assembled merchants."

Mr. Baker started and the testimonies continued one by one until they had all spoken.

"Guard Grinder, you have heard what these gentlemen have said against you how do you respond?"

"Your Highness, these men have talked for some time but they have presented no evidence against me. They say that I have been forcing them to pay me for protection, but as a town guard it is my duty to protect them so why would they pay me more just to do my duty?"

"Are you claiming that all of these men are lying? If so, what do they get out of it since they did not come seeking compensation?"

"How should I know what common shop keepers think?"

"Very well. Next we will hear from the Slaver's Guild."

The Guild Master stood and reported on their brothel raid and then had each of the unregistered slaves testify about how they were enslaved many by Grinder. When they had finished the King had them separated. The group that had been Grinder's victims remained the rest were to be returned to their owners who had to pay the Guild both registration fees as well as fines for not registering to begin with.

"Do you have a response to these allegations Guardsman?"

"They're slaves and whores, of course they're going to blame anyone they can for their choices in life. After hearing the way the shop keepers bad mouthed me I make a convenient target. Once this farce of a trial is over they'll all go back to their brothel and beg to be taken back."

"Any of you that wish to return to the brothels can do so just as those who were dismissed earlier."

I was surprised to see half of them leave, but they had all been alone when Grinder tricked them and all the males had been altered so they could never have families. That still left sixteen individuals and they had all been mothers and children just like Conner's situation.

"What do you have to say now?"

"It is sad that they sold not only themselves, but their children as well, still it has nothing to do with me."

The victims nearly rioted and the royal guards had to escort them from the room.

"Guild Master, you are to see that those individuals are freed and that the ones illegally holding them are to pay them a living wage for the next ten years so that they can return to a normal life. The exception being that the brothels will pay the males in the group, which have been altered, for the rest of their lives."

The Guild Master nodded and left leaving only Mr. Baker and Conner behind.

"Now for our last witness."

"I object! That little slut is a pleasure slave and has no right to bring any charge against a town guard."

I was ready to strangle the wolf right then and there, but Conner stood up, stepped forward, and bowed to the King.

"Your Highness, it's true that I'm a slave now, but if not for Grinder's actions I would still be free."

"Go ahead and tell us your story."

Conner told the King everything he had learned about his Father. How Grinder had tricked his Mother. About escaping, living on the streets, getting caught, and being sold. He finished by telling how he had thought he was safe, now that he had an owner, but Grinder still attacked him and was going to cut off his collar."

"Your Highness, while I don't want Grinder to hurt anyone else, all I want is for him to tell me where he sold my Mother so I can see her again."

"Stupid little shit. She's dead and everyone here knows it. Worthless slut wouldn't stop trying to escape in order to make sure you were safe. It's your own fault. If you'd gone along quietly you'd both still be alive and together. But no you-"

"Enough! Shadow, I want this- this thing made an example of. Take him and do your worst, but make sure he survives as a warning to all the town guards."

"With pleasure."

I grabbed Grinders chains and Shadow stepped to the portal room.

"Open a portal to Bengalin, slave modification planet S-27."

"Ooo scary."

"Don't worry, you won't experience much pain with what I have planned, but then you're never going to experience much in the way of pleasure ever again."

The portal opened on a sterile white lobby. The only color came from the snow white Arctic Vixen's sea foam green scrubs.

"Good morning, Sirs. How can I help you?"

"Please, inform Dr. Enrique that Mr. Shadow is here to see him."

"Do you have an appointment?"

"No, but he'll make an exception for me."

"I'm sorry, Sir, but if you don't have an appointment-"

"Just inform him that I'm here."

She gave me a sour look as she slid her fingers over her smart glass desk.

"What is it, Helena?"

"I'm sorry to bother you Sir, but there is a Mister Shadow here insisting on seeing you."

"Really? Well then, show him in and then reschedule all my appointments for the day."

I gripped Grinder's chains a bit tighter. He was acting much too calmly considering the situation. Helena joined us as we entered the waiting room.

"So is this sexy god of a wolf the reason for your visit?"

"Hey beautiful, if you help me I'll show you just how sexy I am."

She slapped his butt and he yelped in pain.

"Shortly thoughts like that will be a distant memory. Mr. Shadow, you've got about two minutes before the sedative takes full effect."

"Wait."

I laughed as Helena held up the hand she'd slapped Grinder with, showing him the needle she'd used to inject him.

"Males, a little ego stroking and they never see the trap coming. Please wait in the exam room." She pointed to a door on the opposite side we entered. “I suggest, If possible, you try to get him in the chair before he loses consciousness. Now I've got to go tell a bunch of irate customers that their appointments have been rescheduled."

"I'm sorry, let me make it up to you."

I reached into my money pouch and pulled out a diamond the size of a teaspoon. Grinder's jaw fell open, though that might just have been the sedative taking effect.

"You think I'd be impressed with a glass bobble?"

"I suggest you look closer, Helena. That is an antique cut natural diamond. That's why Mr. Shadow gets preferential status. He always pays in rare metals and natural gemstones." Dr. Enrique said, as he entered the waiting room.

I barely noticed as the diamond slipped from my grasp and Helena darted out the door.

"You realize that stone is likely worth more than she makes in a year?"

"I've never heard you complain when you're the one getting paid."

"Fair enough. So what sort of mutilation do you want me to repair on this one?"

"For once, I'm here to engage your regular services."

"Are you serious? I've never known you to, how did you put it again, 'apply negative physical and sexual modification as a form of punishment'."

"I guess there is a first for everything. I'll get him strapped into the chair while you go over this list of alterations I want made."

"My god, you don't do things half way. What did he do for this sort of modification?"

"The list of crimes is longer than the list of modifications, but I suppose right at the top is the fact that he murdered a woman and terrorized her son both of whom were under my protection. Plus he was an officer of the law and he used his position to cover up his crimes."

"I'm surprised you didn't just kill him."

"Death is much too easy. He's being made an example of. I actually hope he lives a long time forced to pleasure others but never receiving pleasure of his own ever again."

"Wow, it's good to know that you find my abilities useful because I'd hate to be on your bad list. Now that you've got him strapped down do you want to watch or wait in comfort?"

"I'll amuse myself elsewhere. Oh, but I would like you to save his testicles for me, no matter what condition they're in. I owe it to his last rape victim, whom nearly died escaping, but I suspect left quite an impression."

"Helena, please come and escort Mr. Shadow to the executive waiting room."

Within seconds I found myself being whisked out of the surgery and into a plush waiting area."

"Can I get you anything Mr. Shadow? Coffee, Tea, perhaps a cocktail?"

"No thank you, but if you have a smart glass pad with access to the news and science feeds I wouldn't mind catching up while I'm here." I had the pad in my hand almost immediately.

"Are you sure there's nothing else?"

"Yes, this is all I need."

"Very well, I suppose I should get back to my desk."

I rolled my eyes after she had left the room. If she'd been expecting another gem she was dreaming. As I skimmed through the news feeds I found a lot of them reporting on a pair of white tiger cubs. With nothing else catching my attention I opened one of the feeds."

“. . . it's the humane thing to do."

I didn't like the look of the tiger speaker. Something about him reminded me too much of an evangelical bigot calling for research into finding a cure for homosexuals. Still, I backed up the video to see what he was talking about.

"You see James, as many of your viewers and my supporters know I'm usually against any form of life termination. However, in this case, I truly believe it's the humane thing to do."

"I strongly disagree with Reverend Tarn. Altan and Amur are innocent and deserve-"

"Innocent? They are incestuous abominations! The genetic tests and even their own testimony about their origin proves that much. Worse yet they don't even seem to have any concept of the wrongness of their conception."

I closed the link and did a quick search to discover the 'boys' testimony.

"Our father mated with his sister."

"And what were their names, again?"

"We're not going to tell you."

"Amur already told us, we're just trying to make sure we recorded everything properly.

"Uh huh, you're a liar. You haven't spoken to Amur yet. Anyway they had a daughter. When she was old enough to have a cub father mated with her and our mother was born. Then father mated her and we were born. He was going to have us mated to our older siblings, but we're just not attracted to females."

The human doing the interview looked visibly sick and quickly left the room. I clicked on the next interview. This time a cheetah was asking the questions.

"So Amur, Alton told us that you prefer males and the two of you mate often."

"No, he said 'we're just not attracted to females', but yes we do mate with each other when we feel the urge. Still it isn't as good as with other species. I mean, mating Alton is like playing with myself. After we learned that other species had different equipment we left our family to find the best dick. So far we've found that we really like canines because of their knots and their fondness for marking their conquests."

"About that, didn't you realize that your fetish for being marked would reveal the truth?"

"It wouldn't have if the government hadn't issued a recall on our normal fur dye."

The next interview was with both cubs but their formerly black stripes were now bright pink for one and purple for the other.

"So do you have any questions?"

"Yeah, when will this dye wash out?"

"It isn't dye. Your fur and skin have been genetically modified so that no dye will change the color of your stripes."

"Fine, then when are you going to release us? It's not like we're going to mate with any females so we're no threat."

The links to interviews ended there, but it seemed that there was more support behind the idea that the boys represented some threat to the moral fabric of society and they needed to be removed.

"Fascinating case, isn't it?"

I jumped at the doctor's voice right next to my ear.

"What you won't find on the news links is the fact that they share a full telepathic connection. It's like mental quantum entanglement no matter how far apart they are they know exactly what the other is thinking and doing."

"I can see how that could be a concern to some."

"Yes, and an opportunity for others. Imagine if you could duplicate that ability in anyone. Instant un-hackable communication across the galaxy from battle reports to spy missions. Fortunately, so far, no one has been able to figure it out. I get my chance in a couple of weeks."

"You?"

"That's right, I get to be the one to crack open their skulls and look for actual physical possibilities."

"I see."

"There's just one problem."

"Only one?"

"Alright two. The first is that if I can't find anything I don't get paid. The second problem is that, I feel sorry for them. It's not like they chose who their parents were. So, I was thinking . . ."

"Maybe you slip on a pile of gold and those two escape?"

"Absolutely not. I fill out their death certificates, clone their brains, inextricably come across a large pile of gold and accidentally mark the records that the unneeded bodies were atomized.

"Won't the cloning process leave genetic traces?"

"None that can't be explained away by the excessive inbreeding."

"Of course if you do find any physical explanation you'll get a double payday."

"Trust me, there won't be. The last thing I want is someone meddling in my affairs. No, it is best that no one finds a way to mass produce that ability. So, do we have a deal?"

"Let me know, through the regular channels when you want me to pick them up. I already have the perfect owner for them. His kinks actually match up rather well with them."

"Good to know. Anyway your prisoner has about an hour of healing left and then you'll be good to go. I'm just going to 'accidentally' leave this unlocked 'secure' pad here with all the current and unedited information on a couple of future patients. Now I need to go and let Helena know that she can leave early today. Something tells me she is going to be looking for a jeweler that can re-set an old family heirloom diamond into a new pendant."

"Just a moment, I think I've got the matching diamonds for earrings here."

"You never cease to amaze me. Of course if she just goes out and finds a buyer I'm going to have to find another receptionist."

"I doubt that. From the look she gave that diamond, I'm betting she sticks around long enough to pick up stones for a bracelet and perhaps even a tiara."

He walked out shaking his head as I picked up the pad and started reading.

***

I stepped out of the portal room pushing what was likely the first wheel chair in the kingdom. Grinder was belted in place and remained unconscious. I wheeled him into the court, transferred his body over to his original seat, and then walked back out with the wheel chair. As I was returning the chair to the portal room the King waved for me to follow him into the war room.

"He is still unconscious."

"Yes, and he will remain that way until I inject him with the antidote."

"So what did you do to him and what are we going to do with him now?"

"He is going to be a sex slave, of course. I'll give a full report on how he has been altered once he, or perhaps I should say it, is awake. As for its future that is ultimately up to you. However, I would suggest housing him in the town guard garrison as a warning about what could happen to any guard that mistreats those he is supposed to be protecting."

"That seems reasonable, but how does that work with him being a sex slave?"

"The Town guards, every single one of them, will be required to use it, regardless of their gender preferences, at least once a year. They are also required to care for it at all times due to its new needs. Perhaps having a palace guard preform random weekly checks to be sure it is in good condition."

"How long should it remain in this condition?"

"Ten years minimum. At that point it will be allowed to request certain changes in its physical state be reversed, but it will remain a slave for the rest of its life."

"Is that everything?"

"Everything that I've thought of, but if you want to do more that is your prerogative as King."

"So be it. Let us go back out there and finish this."

As we entered the room I wasn't surprised to see that Grinder was chained up once more. I walked over and injected him with the counteractive agent and then returned to my place next to the King. Everyone waited, watching Grinder as he slowly regained consciousness."

"Wha-what you do ta meh."

"What is your name?"

"Grrrrrrrrinderrrrr"

"No, it is Toy, Thing, or It."

"Fuck you."

"That is impossible for you now. You have been altered to suit your new life. Would you like to know how you've been altered?"

"I'll kill you. If I can't, I still have friends who can."

"After they learn what has been done to you I doubt they will ever admit to even knowing you. Now, you may be a bit groggy still so you probably haven't given much thought to the strange feeling in your mouth. That strange feeling is due to the fact that your teeth have been replaced with a softer material. You'll no longer be able to chew tough foods but it will stimulate the males pleasuring themselves with your muzzle. Also to that end you've been modified so that you'll still be able to breath no matter how deep a male pushes into your throat."

I paused for a couple of minutes as he worked his jaw to see if it were true.

"Of course you had to know that you would be losing your balls, but it goes way beyond that. Your penis has also been removed leaving you with an empty sheath just waiting for a male to fill it for you."

I could see anger, fear, and pain waring in his expression at his losses.

"Of course, since you are no longer a male, I went ahead and had all the other unnecessary reproductive bits removed as well. That means the gland that allows males to experience pleasure when taken from behind is also gone. However, your pleasure or lack thereof is of no importance as long as the men using you find pleasure."

By this point It was visibly crying but I steeled myself by remembering the way Sticks had accepted the fact that he was going to die, and showed no emotion at the fact that he was bleeding to death.

"Your opening for draining your water has also been restructured to be between your legs so you'll be required to squat to relive yourself like a female."

I stepped back as the King explained the rest of Its punishment. Once he finished I stepped forward one last time.

"As his Highness said, after ten years I can change everything back. However, it will not be me that you have to convince that you deserve your bits returned. That decision will be up to Conner and the wolf pup you raped earlier."

"Guards, take him to the town garrison and make sure they understand their duty regarding their new Toy."

The guards nodded a practically drug the seemingly lifeless wolf from the room.

"Your Highness, by your leave, I'd like to return Conner to his home?"

"Granted."

I walked over and picked Conner up.

"Thank you, Mr. Baker, for looking after Conner, but I really think he needs to be taken home."

"What about his master?"

"I'll inform Lord Lightstripe personally. I need to update him on the trial as well as give him a gift for his newest slave."

I then shadow stepped to the portal room.

"That was really strange."

"I know, unlike your Master I don't have access to House's portals so I had to learn a different method. It works about the same though. This is my portal room that allows me to travel to House if I need to contact Lord Lightstripe. Listen, there is something you need to know. Your Master learned that Grinder had killed your mother but the King and I ordered him not to tell you. So if you have to be angry be angry at us. I know him and I'm sure that he is worried that you're going to hate him."

"I couldn't hate him, he saved my life."

"Just be sure to let him know when you get a chance to tell him. Now step through the portal and you'll be home. Then I can go and tell him that everything is over. Oh, and remind him that he has a slave he still needs to register today."

"Thank you Mr. Shadow, I'll be sure to tell Dad I love him."

Conner stepped through the portal and I then I shadow stepped back to the boarding house. I sat on the newly replaced bedding as I slowly removed my Shadow uniform. Being two characters at once was so much harder in reality than it seemed in comic books and movies. All I really wanted to do was fall back and call it a day but I still had work that needed to be done.

I did take my time getting changed since it needed to appear that I'd had a long conversation with the Shadow. Once I felt enough time had passed I returned to house's entrance gate. I could see grey clouds building in the distance foretelling the planned storm, but I still had plenty of time to tie up loose ends. Suddenly I was nearly knocked off my feet by a flying ball of orange fur.

"Dad, you're back!"

"For a few minutes anyway. Conner, I want to apologize . . ."

"It's alright, Shadow told me everything including how you wanted to tell me but he ordered you not to. I also want you to know that I love you for saving my life and making sure that Grinder was punished and nothing is going to change that."

He stopped talking as he tried to catch his breath.

"Well, Shadow and I had a discussion and I mentioned your ideas about what should happen to the people of Viros. He told me that you are a smart and compassionate cub and since you were the one that has had to suffer your ruling is what the nobles of Viros are going to have to accept."

"I- I'm not that important."

"Yes you are. Now, go help Bit keep an eye on Shot and Key. And if you feel up to experimenting, even though you and Bit can't interact with the colts until they have been 'cleaned' you can play with each other."

"Um, Dad, I know you just gave me an order, and I'm required to follow all orders, but can I stay with you while you wake the wolf up? It's just, I sorta feel like we're brothers since Grinder planned on doing the same thing to both of us. Once he is awake I'll immediately join Bit like you ordered."

"And if I say no?"

His ears drooped and he turned to walk away.

"I didn't say no, I asked what you would do."

"I'd do as you ordered, go and help Bit."

"Fine, come on you can come with me. I don't have a problem with you asking questions like that so long as you have a good reason, which you did, and as long as you remember that sometimes the answer will be no."

"I'll remember."

***

"What you're about to see might be a bit disturbing. The medical facilities that House provides are way beyond your world's level of development. Actually, they're far beyond what my own world has reached."

As we stepped into the room I tried to imagine the med-chamber from Conner's perspective. It sort of reminded me of a giant wizard or alchemist's specimen bottle with an anthropomorphic wolf inside trapped in pink gel.

"House, has Sticks been restored?"

"Subject 006 Sticks has been restored, however; he should refrain from intense activities and anal sex for three or four days."

"Understood, begin revival sequence with audio checklist."

"Removing internal cleansing and restorative fluids. Removal complete. Injecting protein nourishment into stomach. Process complete. Retracting anal, stomach, and renal, tubes. Retraction complete. Beginning restorative fluid drain from med-tube. Draining at 25% beginning water rinse."

"Why isn't the water and the pink fluid mixing?"

"Draining at 50%."

"The restorative fluid is heavier and thicker than water so they don't mix easily."

"Draining at 75%."

"Why does he need to be washed like this? Couldn't he just shower when he gets out?"

"Draining complete. Starting water cycling to recover remaining fluid particles."

"It's because House needs to recover as much of the restorative fluid as possible. It is really difficult to get more so what we have will be filtered cleaned and then re-used. Another reason is because the water is keeping Sticks floating in the tube."

"Rinse cycle complete. Lowering water level by 32%."

"Huh?"

"House, explain."

"Due to subject's mass lowering water level 32% will allow his feet to touch the bottom of the tube while his head will be above the water level. Optimum water level reached. Saturating air with revival agent. Removing breathing tubes."

I quickly switched on the tube's audio receiver as Sticks inhaled. I waited until his eyes blinked open.

"Sticks, try to remain calm. Find your footing and remain standing."

"Subject is responsive, beginning water drainage."

"Look at me. Don't try to talk yet. You're probably feeling a bit of pain especially your throat and other bodily openings. First thing you need to do is tilt your head to one side and then the other to allow the water to drain out. I know you're going to want to shake but control yourself. Good, now tilt to the other side. That's right, now you can carefully shake your head if you need to get any more water out."

"Water drained."

"House, stop cycle until I explain it to subject."

"Drying sequence on standby."

"Sticks, the next step will be a warm wind blowing over you until your fur is dry and then the medical pod will open letting you out. Nod if you're ready."

"House, resume sequence. Conner, come over here and hold this button. It allows Sticks to hear what we're saying even over the sound of the dryer."

"Okay."

Once Conner had taken over I walked to the sink and filled a pitcher with water. "Sticks, I know how you're feeling right now since I've had to spend time in the tube as well. To that end I know the first thing you're going to want when you get out is water. However, I wouldn't blame you for not trusting me right now."

I filled a cup and took a drink to prove that it was safe. I passed the cup to Conner.

"Since I'm not a wolf there may be the possibility that something won't affect me but could be dangerous to him. However foxes and wolves are close enough to prove that it is safe."

Conner took a small sip, glanced at me, and then a longer drink. Rather than getting angry I laughed.

"You weren't sure there for a second and I already know that you trust me."

"I-"

"Drying sequence complete. Opening medical tube. Please have a safe day."

Sticks stepped out, wobbling slightly, and reached for the cup in Conner's hand.

"Take small sips to start otherwise it will make the pain in your throat worse."

He followed my advice but the cup was still quickly emptied. He moved toward me and I reached for the pitcher only to be surprised as he wrapped his arms around me. He was whimpering and tears were beginning to slip out.

"T-thank you."

He reached out and grabbed Conner pulling him into the hug as well.

"You're safe now, Dad won't let anything bad happen to you."

"Conner, don't be making promises I can't keep. I still have to take Sticks into town and register him as my slave. While I'll do everything I can to prevent it I can't keep bad things from happening. Especially considering the danger I'm going to be putting him in after he's registered. Now you need to go out and help Bit."

"Does he have to go?"

*Redacted*

I described Grinder's punishment as we walked to the locker room. Once inside he chose his locker. The paint turned brown with a grey tribal wolf on it.

"The first thing you probably need to know is that I am as normal as you are. Everything that seems magical is either futuristic technology from other worlds or House's magic. Next, I don't want any of my slaves to lie to me. I'd rather hear the truth, even if you think it isn't what I want to hear, than have to punish you if you get caught in a lie. Finally after ten years you will have the option of being freed. Until that time your body belongs to me, but I have no claim on your mind or soul. So if you hate me I will completely understand."

"How could I hate you, you saved my life."

"Yes, but I will be doing much the same thing as Grinder did to you, though I'll be less degrading and a lot less violent."

"I figured that would be likely. I-I'll do the best I can to serve you."

"There is a tradeoff, of sorts, you will be trained how to defend yourself. You'll also learn to read and write. In ten years you'll be better educated than most of the people on your world."

"What if you decide to sell me?"

"That isn't going to happen. In ten years you will be freed. At that point it will be up to you if you want things to continue or go your own way."

He didn't say anything so I opened my locker only to shut it again.

"House, I have more planned than just a trip to the slave guild. I need my battle armor and a set of armor for Sticks as well."

I re-opened my locker and pulled out my armor. It was almost identical to The Shadow's armor with the exception of having white edging. I stripped off my town clothes and started donning the armor when I realized Sticks was just sitting and staring at me.

"What?"

"Are you the King's Shadow?"

"Oh right, the armor. The King's Shadow has spent a lot of time here learning from House so naturally he kept his set of armor. If you notice my armor is black and white while The Shadow's armor is all black. If you open your locker again you'll find your own set of armor which is likely gray and brown."

"How did you know?"

"It matched the colors on your locker. Now you need to start putting your armor on while I finish up and then I'll help you finish."

For someone that likely never worked with so much covering Sticks did remarkably well getting dressed. I did have to help him with the boots even though they were perfectly fitted to his digigrade stance

"How do you feel?"

"Trapped, I've never been so confined in my life."

"That may be so, but so long as you protect your head you're safe from nearly any attack to your body and limbs. Before you ask, yes the armor does have a helmet, but I find that the limitations to vision and hearing make it worthless."

"It probably wouldn't be very practical for using ones nose either."

"You're right, though human noses are really weak so that lose wouldn't matter to me. Eventually I need to ask the Shadow where he found his headgear and mask. Now, what weapons have you trained with?"

"I, what?"

"It's a simple question. You've been raised in a tribal pack so, as a future hunter, you've been trained to use weapons."

I could tell he was scared to tell me from the shaking and his tail being tucked between his legs.

"I'm guessing you know how to use a knife, at least for common applications, probably a club, maybe even some training with a bow. So long as you tell me the truth you won't be in any trouble."

"I-I've never been a very promising hunter. Like you said I know how to use a knife but not for fighting. I was learning to use a bow and arrows, but I'm really not any good. I'm pretty good with a staff or clubs but that's because I got tired of being beaten by the adult pack members when they would catch me alone."

"Wait here, I'll be back in a couple of minutes."

I quickly made my way downstairs to the armory. I strapped on my twin blades and grabbed my wooden staff and a special staff for Sticks. After a moment of consideration I crossed the hall and looked at my arsenal. I closed and re-locked the door. While the guns would have a spectacular effect there was too much chance that I'd lose control of the situation. I quickly returned to the locker room and tossed Sticks his staff.

"It's heavier than I'm used to."

"That's because it is metal and the ends are weighted. Move it around and get a feel for it."

He spun it around a couple of times, and then thrust toward me. I deflected the blow, knocking the staff out of his hands, and then followed through by sweeping his legs out from under him. He lay on the floor stunned as I held my hand out to help him up.

"You didn't think I'd give you a weapon without being able to defend myself, did you?"

"I-I was just doing as you commanded, that thrust would never have reached you."

"I know, but I needed to show you that I am still the one in charge even if you are armed."

"Yes, sir."

"Good, retrieve your staff and return it to me."

He picked up the staff and handed it over.

"This particular model has another option, by pressing the buttons in the center ring and giving it a good twist it comes apart and can function as a pair of clubs."

I held the two rods together and placed them over my left shoulder where the magnets in my armor locked them in place.

"I'll return these right after we finish our guild business."

"Why would I need them if we're coming back here?"

"Because we're not returning immediately. First we need to find your mate and let him know that you are now a slave and that the Alpha is likely planning on killing him. Then I have a gift for your former Alpha from the King's Shadow. Well, technically it was meant as a gift for you but I don't think you'll have a problem with what I have planned. Now that we're ready, House, open a portal into town."