THE TIES THAT BIND
By Waddie Greywolf   

Chapter 7 ~ Revelations And Prophecies

Part I ~ Sunday Morning Coming Down

"A child of horror, tortured terrors, roams the wasteland where,
Men found him ugly, unworthy, for any loving heart to share,
A monster who seduced the coldest womb he was to find,
Destroyed his manhood before he ever knew its prime.

Years matured, two angels wrestled with him found him fair,
One saved his life, taught love, rhymed-words, his life to bear,
Another seraph’d leathered master’s strength became his creed,
Transformed his broken pride into a working vessel for his seed."
Canto 18 ~ Slave Songs ~ W. D. Dux


I awoke with the most wonderful full feeling, and realized my master was still implanted deep within me like the root of a large oak tree.  I thought I might awaken him slowly if I started gently fucking his cock with my ass.  I took a couple of strokes, eased back down, and felt his root begin to grow.  I took another pretty good stroke with my ass, and the monster awoke.  My Master smoothly pulled out to the head of his handsome cock, and steadily but firmly, plunged back into my depths.  I heard a deep masculine voice whisper over my shoulder, “If you don’t stop that you’re gonna’ get fucked,” he whispered.

“Meaning no disrespect, Master, isn’t that what your slave is for, sir?” I asked.

Master Earl stretched and locked his cock way up my ass.  “You really think we can get away with it before the peanut gallery marches in with popcorn and kazoos?” he asked laughing.

“Well, I don’t know Buffalo Bob but Howdy Doody’s little butt is ready to be nailed, peanut gallery or no,” I replied.

Master Earl started laughing.  “Now, cut that out, slave, we’re gonna’ wake up you know who,” he admonished me.

“Yes, Master, I’m sorry,” I said and laughed.

“The, hell, you say?  No you’re not.  Just for that insolence I’m gonna’ fuck the snot out a’ you,”  Master Earl replied pulling my head back for a morning kiss.  We shared a laugh.

When he finally reached the point where I knew I was going to get my morning allotment of master come my nose was running.  He succeeded in fucking the snot out of me.  What a good master.  Damn, I’m sure he opened up his own hole back there.  He gave me permission to shoot my load with him.  I missed by seconds but hit slightly before him; however, he said my asshole spasms were so hot he shot when he felt it.  He said my timing was  perfect for his  pleasure.  That’s what I want to become, a slave for his pleasure, more than ever now.  I was sad to think I only had this day left with him.

Master Shaw was demanding, strong willed, yet warm, and giving of himself.  I thought masters were suppose to be aloof and distant.  Master Jeb straightened me out about that.  It’s just like any other relationship.  However in these relationships, your master is lord and master of your person.  He may ask your opinion, he may ask your preference, he may ask your choice of punishment, but you learn, the final decision will always be his.  It must be that way, at least for him and me.  He demands it, and I need it.  I was worried maybe Master Earl wouldn’t be as strong as I needed because of his growing love for me.

Master Jeb just chuckled when I voiced my concern.  “Son, you better fasten your seat-belt if you become that man’s slave.  He may love you more that any slave he’s ever owned, tell you hourly of his love, but hold on to your ass.  Earl Shaw is one, strict disciplinarian, mean punishment, demanding son of a bitch.  What he will demand of you, how he will discipline you, or how he will administer punishment will be in direct proportion to his love for you.  If he didn’t care about you, he wouldn’t bother.  Beau, you’ve grabbed a sleeping saber-tooth tiger by the tail.  I wouldn’t worry about it though, he’s exactly what you need.  Few slaves could handle him.  He knows it, too.  That’s why he hasn’t considered another slave until you came along.  I guess my prophetic words shook him to the core the day he stopped you.  A wee small voice must have whispered, ‘Screw the ticket, fuck the kid,’” Master Jeb said and we shared a laugh.

He continued, “On the other hand, most masters wouldn’t have a clue how to handle you.  Wes was able to deal with Earl out of shear determination and an unquenchable love.  Wes had the heart of a lion.  You will find Earl easier to deal with from your raw natural talent and your deep need to serve.  You won’t be punished unless you do something really stupid, and I can’t see you doing that.  Poor Wes got punished because Earl was going to correct some of his negative thoughts about himself or find the reason why.  He’d get right in Wes’ face and yell at him an order to trust him.  Sounds stupid, but it worked.  Wes learned to trust.  Earl succeeded far beyond my expectations.  Wes was reborn under Earl.  For the first time in his life, Wes found a purpose for living.  That purpose was Officer Earl D. Shaw.  Wes found his bliss and his bliss was Officer Earl D. Shaw.  He worshiped him, as well he should.  His master took good care of his slave and loved him more than he knew.  Earl and Wes were the second best match I ever made,” he said.  I didn’t ask about the first.

“Most of the time he’s gonna’ give you the benefit of the doubt and as generous a spirit as you have, Beau, you'll be his prize, his pride and joy. You may have to swallow your pride sometimes, but that’s all covered in training.  You’ll learn a slave’s worst enemy is pride, or I should say the wrong kind of pride.  Certainly you should have pride in being his slave; pride, because he thinks well of you and your service to him.  Never let some wag bother you who refers to you as a boot-wipe slave.  Truth be known, he’d probably give all he has to be where you are at Earl Shaw's boots, but he can’t be.  Earl will only have one slave.  If you’re chosen, you may walk with pride to wear his collar, and believe me, you will probably have one permanently welded around your neck.  If you go out with him in public you may get looked at funny, but walk tall, remember who owns you, and the significance of his collar.

“Just think of all those breeders out there who only have an insignificant small band of gold around their finger to tell the world they belong to someone else.  Now, an iron collar?  It makes a statement,” he said and laughed hardy, “Never be afraid to tell the truth if someone asks you why you wear his collar.  Unless he instructs you otherwise just say you wear it to please your master.  Most will have no idea what you're talking about and those who do will understand your pride,” Master Jeb said.

* * * * * * *

We got up, and I had to rush to the head as Master Earl unloaded his night piss into me after he fucked me.  I was ordered to shower, shave, hose out, and report back to him when finished, he would dress me for the day.  The shower felt good, and I took a little time to do the necessaries.  I didn’t take long.  I didn’t want to keep him waiting or throw his schedule off.  He might need me in the kitchen.  I toweled off and headed for the bedroom.  He wasn’t there so I headed for the kitchen.  I walked in naked.  Billy and Oscar were there with no clothes so I didn’t feel self conscious.  Oscar greeted me.  Billy simply held his hand out to me at crotch level, and I knew what he wanted.  I walked over and laid my cock and balls in his open hand.  He gently closed his big hand around them, moved his arm slightly around to his back.  I could stand just behind him, and he could hold them.  He went on talking to Master Earl like nothing was going on.  Master Earl looked at me a couple of times, and I watched a knowing grin cross his handsome face.  Billy wasn’t fooling him for a minute.

“No boots or chaps today, slave, I want to see all of you... that is, if Billy ever lets go of your cock and balls,” he said.  Everyone laughed.

“I’m so sorry, Master Earl,” Billy lied, “Lawsey, I don’t know what come over this old eunuch-slave.  Thanks, Beau,” he whispered.

“Any time, Clancey,” I said, “No, I’m sorry, Mr. McGee.  I certainly owe you that respect,” I said sincerely.

Billy whooped, grabbed me, and hugged me.  “This one’s a keeper, Master Earl,” Billy said.

“I’ll second that,” Oscar agreed.

“Well, what can I say, slave, the ‘ayes’ have it ‘cause you get a big one from me, too, and I be ‘da one what counts,” he said and grinned.  I walked around and was going to kiss his boots.  Master Earl grabbed me in mid lunge and hugged me to his chest.  He had his leather pants on again with his high boots.  He looked at me with his beautiful violet eyes. “Good morning, my handsome  slave,” he said and kissed me tenderly.  There was much hooting and hollering from the peanut gallery.

“Billy— Oscar, in the kitchen.  You know what to do, and I’ll be back in a minute.  I gotta’ get my boy ready,” he said.

“Take your time, we can finish this,” Oscar said as they went to work.

We went into the bedroom, he turned, and held me in his arms again.  “Now, let’s try that one more time without the peanut gallery,” he said quietly.  Master Earl kissed me so gently but passionately, I thought I was going to drop my load.

My old cock saluted and got his attention.  “My God,” he said, “doesn’t that thing ever behave?” he asked.

“I’m afraid it has a mind of it’s own, Master,” I replied.

“Well, it can be disciplined as well,” he said.  He walked over to his dresser and opened a drawer.  He retrieved a small riding quirt with small strips of leather on the end.  My stupid dick was really asking for it because it only got harder.  He walked back and with a light flip of his wrist snapped it right on the head of my dick.  It didn’t hurt but my old cock went limp instantly.  “See?” he said, “We’ll have that thing shaped up in no time.  I’ll just keep this in my back pocket in case it decides to get unruly today.  If I order you to present arms you hit parade rest instantly and stick it out for all to see.  I’ll take care of it.”  My stupid cock went erect again. “Present arms,” he ordered.  I hit parade rest and threw my hips forward.  He really smacked it a good one that time, and it went right down.

“Thank you, Master,” I said.  Master Earl snapped his fingers and pointed to his boots.  I was there in an instant, took each one in my hands and kissed them passionately.

“I’m pleased with your action, slave.  Now let’s get you ready.  I’ve changed my mind, I do want you with your boots and chaps on.  Also wear your vest today.  Let’s get you plugged.  I’ll attach your leash and you can come out when you’ve finished putting on your chaps, boots, and vest," he said.  He snapped his fingers and pointed to the bed.  I was in the position in a flash with my ass raised much higher than yesterday.  He turned with the lightly greased plug in his hand.  “Good position, slave.  Your master can get to your little hole much better,” he complimented me.

He gave several twists of the plug to loosen my muscle then snapped it in.  This time he grabbed me above my legs and around my back cradling my lower body in his arm.  He held me tight, placed the heal of his hand at the base of the plug, and gave one quick push with a screwing motion.  I felt it click into place past the muscle.  The muscle was locked riding around the small of the base of the plug with almost no discomfort.  He cleaned the excess lubricant and ordered me to stand.

“Thank you, Master, for plugging my slave hole.  It feels right when you do it, sir,” I said.

“You’re welcome, slave.  It looks better and feels better when it’s seated properly.  Now let me attach your leash.  Okay, that’s good," he said.

Master Earl grabbed me and kissed me again. “Now, get the rest of your stuff on, and I’ll be back with a rag.  You can wipe down my boots for me.”

“Yes, sir, it will be a pleasure, sir,” I said.

Master Earl returned after I finished dressing.  He had a large clean rag in his hand.  He got a small step stool out of the closet and placed it in front of his dressing mirrors.  He wanted to get a good look at me from all sides cleaning his boots.  He didn’t have to give me an order, I was ready.  I took the rag from him and began to clean them.  If I found a spot, I would lick it to moisten it and remove it with the rag.  I wasn’t satisfied with the experience, any competent slave could clean his master’s boots.  I raised the one, slipped underneath it to sit on the stool and lowered his heavy boot onto my crotch.

“Very nice, boy.  I like an inventive slave, and I like having you in a vulnerable position even if you placed yourself there.  I would expect you might wish for me to take advantage of the situation,” he said in jest, but I knew my answer might be critical.

“I placed myself in this position to show my sincerity in becoming your slave, Master.  You have the option to ruin them right now if you so choose.  I would still become your slave,” I replied.

“That’s good thinking slave, but I think I should take some advantage to remind you it isn’t a game, and not to tempt your master,” he warned.  Master Earl began to press the heel of his big boot into my balls and I could feel them spreading underneath.

I thought to myself, ‘This is it.  I’ve pushed him too far with my immature eagerness.  He’s going to take them.’ Then I felt a strange sensation of peace come over me which said to me, 'Call his bluff.  Give them to him. Let him have them.  The pain will be short lived and you will be free.'  He immediately raised his boot and replaced it with the other for me to clean.  It got even more attention than the first.
 
“Stand up, slave, at parade rest,” he ordered.

I obeyed and he gently examined my balls.  He made love to them with his hands, then he did something very strange and out of character.  He knelt on one knee, holding my balls in one hand, licked and kissed each one with a gentle passion as if apologizing to them for any pain his boot may have caused.  They were to understand a little pain was necessary to teach the kid a lesson.  It was as if he recognized them separate from me, the individual.  I was shocked and touched and had a lot more feelings I found difficult to sort out.

He saw my look of confusion.  “Figure that one out, slave,” he said quietly as he smiled and pulled me to him. “Many master’s feel they should never tell their slaves how they feel.  They might use it against them and lose control.  I’ve never been afraid of that.  My control over you will be so complete you’ll never feel the need to use my love for an advantage.  A slave can’t have it both ways,” he said.  Master Earl looked me in the eyes for a long minute then spoke to me as a man, not as my master.  He let down all defenses and bared his soul to me man to man.  He knew I understood his purpose in shifting gears.  “I’ve finished falling in love with you, Beau.  I am in love with you.  I’m sot with love for you,” he said.  He took control in an instant and was once again my master.  “I also love my slave who stands before me,” he added.  He made a separate distinction.

I thought I understood, and knew I did when my heart spoke in reply. “Master, I have but one love for you.  I want to love you no other way than as your slave.  The concept of slavery is more passionate and gratifying than anything I’ve ever experienced.  I know this is our first weekend together, but if it doesn’t happen and for some reason I don't become your slave, I can’t even conceive of a future.  It goes beyond need, Master.  My heart has no choice.  Sartre may have been right.  There are situations from which there is no exit.  I have no fear, no anxiety.  A contract with you is only a small step that will confirm in words where my heart must be.  So, it is in truth, when I call myself your slave, know it in your heart, Beau has joined that slave to become of one mind, the only me, your slave, who loves you, Master Earl,” I said.

He looked at me like he was stunned for a moment.  “I will gladly accept your love as my slave.  I’ve never experienced a complete love from one perspective.  Wes most likely succeeded but held out his completeness with one small clause; a clause which he lived to regret.  Most people want to separate love and proceed from both.  With you I can join my love into one as your total and complete master.  I’ve dreamed of finding a slave who understands the simplicity of the concept but never thought I might find one.  It makes things simpler to cut out the middle-ground.  You’re correct, the thought of loving you from that perspective takes on a different passion.  One I’ve always wanted to experience.”

“If it is your will, we will make it so, Master,” I said.  I looked down as I spoke to him.

Master Earl placed his mouth on his slave’s and the bond was sealed not with a kiss of passion but one of welcome to the only two people in the room, who joined hearts and minds for one clear purpose of what their love was to be, a master and his slave.  Then it became clear to me his actions of kissing my balls.  Would you lick and kiss your own balls if you could?  He just did.   


Part II ~ A Master of Wisdom and Reason

“Private visions,
a kenning of such things,
my heart alone should know.
I run from one to one, and
ask this question of them all:
What few have seen the night
enclose the day at noon,
and told a slave the truth
about the ways of love.” ~
From: Canto 23 ~ Slave Songs ~ W. D. Dux (Posthumous)

Preparations were almost ready for brunch when Master Earl and I returned to the kitchen.  Billy and Oscar had things under control.  It was obvious they knew their way around a kitchen and probably cooked in Master Earl’s kitchen many times.  Master Earl started making drinks, but I again declined.  I had enough the previous evening.  The door bell rang, Oscar and Billy clucked and chortled as Master Earl walked by me.

“Follow Billy and Oscar’s lead, and do as they do,” Master Earl instructed me.

“Yes, Master Earl,” I replied.

Master Earl open the door and there stood a most handsome mature gentleman wearing a beautiful turquoise blue shirt.  His snow white ‘stash and beard with his pale blue eyes was enough to make my heart leap to my throat and my cock start to rise.  Master Jeb entered.  “Welcome, good Master, to our home.  Our hearts are gladdened by you presence,” Master Earl said with humility and bowed slightly.

“This master comes with love and peace for all and a glad heart.  Thank you, Master Earl,” Master Jeb replied and he, too, bowed slightly to Master Earl.  The two men clasped arms then hugged each other.

Billy and Oscar went to Master Jeb and knelt in front of him to kiss his boots.  He offered them the back of his hand, they kissed it, and put it to their forehead for a moment.  “Arise, good slaves, and show this master your love,” he ordered gently.  With that Billy and Oscar were all over him.  I waited for them to finish and Master Jeb broke the ice.  “Ah, but I see there’s one more slave in your household, Master Earl.  Has he been instructed how to greet a master?” Master Jeb asked with a grin.  Billy and Oscar moved to his sides each clinging to a shoulder.

"I believe he has, good Master.  He's a quick study, sir," Master Earl replied, looked at me, smiled, snapped his finger, and pointed to the floor in front of Master Jeb.  I was there in three steps and on my knees.

I placed my hands around one boot and kissed it, then the other and kissed it.  I slowly rose to find the back of his hand waiting.  I took it, held it for just a moment, then kissed it gently and pressed it to my forehead.  I held it there until he spoke in a generously demanding voice,  “Arise, handsome young slave, and show your master your love,” he said.  I threw my arms around his neck and kissed him on the cheek.  “To Hell with that, slave, your master wants a kiss,” he said as he kissed me strong but gently on the mouth.  It was wonderful to see him again.  He was in great spirits.  He complimented me on my welcome.

He motioned  to Billy and Oscar.  “These two have been doing the ritual greeting since before you were born.  It was a treat to see our new slave greet his master.  Well done, Master Earl.  I see he’s in good hands,” Master Jeb complimented his host.

We  talked small talk and Master Earl made Master Jeb a light drink.  Oscar, Billy, and I were busy carrying food to the deck.  With three it took no time and we were ready to sit down and eat.  The food was wonderful.  We talked about everything.  When we finished the three slaves cleared the table while the two masters talked privately.  I didn’t hear a lot of their conversation, but the way they were talking was in low tones and very serious with occasional laughter.  Master Jeb was listening intently to Master Earl with a decided twinkle in his eye.  It was obvious he was enjoying himself and having a good time.  I was impressed with Master Earl’s ability to socially place Master Jeb in a position of revered, honored guest whom everyone had access to equally.  We returned with ice cream and fruit.

Master Earl took the lead to discuss things which happened to us and shared them with Master Jeb while we listened.  “We purposely waited to discuss anything about the last couple of days because we each have an emotional investment, not only in what happened, but with each other.  Beau was correct last night, Billy, when he said he believed your and Oscar’s presence was not by chance.  Wes loved the two of you, and slaves don’t fool their masters for a moment.  We know you share secrets you’ll take to your graves,” Master Earl said.  Billy and Oscar smiled sweetly neither agreeing nor denying.

“That’s as it should be,” Master Jeb said, “Those are things which bond you to each other as brothers in our family are important.  Good memories and meaningful shared experiences are the glue that bonds us together,”he said.

“Absolutely,” Master Earl agreed, “I welcomed the two of you being so generous with Wes, and from the way things are going, neither of us will be able to pry either of you away from our new slave,” he added.   Everyone laughed as Master Earl motioned toward me.  He went on to describe in detail the strange evening we spent the night before.  When he finished there was a silence around the table which was filled with awe and wonder.

Master Jeb spoke first to break our shared silence.  “Over my years of dealing with Master/slave relationships things of this nature are not uncommon.  I’ve observed and witnessed some pretty bizarre things.  Some almost frightening, but not in the sense of terror; more like shaking the foundations of tired belief systems.  A minor poet said over three hundred years ago, ‘There is more under heaven and earth than is dreamed of in your philosophy, Horatio.’  It remains true today.  For all of mankind’s technological advances our systems for understanding are sadly lagging far behind.  Our religions are still holding on to concepts conceived by ignorant homophobic sheepherders thousands of years ago.  Granted some teachings like the golden rule may have limited value, but many dealt with the society in which they were created using belief systems current for their day.  By today’s standards they’re archiac, outdated, and have little or no real practical applications in today’s world.

“Who knows how many writers added or subtracted from ‘The Word’ because they had individual axes to grind.  It's nothing new.  The ultra-right wing and fundamentalist are doing it today.  They try to re-write history by declaring our country was founded as a Christian nation but it wasn't.  It was founded on the separation of church and state.  The more radical fundamentalist claim the bible is the infallible word of God.  God’s Holy Word?  Not very likely.  If God tells you, believe it.  If another man tells you God told him, be very suspicious.  Worse yet, if another man wants to tell you what it means, and you must believe his interpretation, run the other way.  He has no more idea what it means than you do, and his interpretation certainly is no more valid than your own.  Neither is it important how many religious degrees he has behind his name.  They're all as bogus as a wooden nickel and just as worthless.  Organized religion with its insistence on blind faith was never meant for the betterment of mankind but for control.  It could be for betterment, but it isn't.  That’s the false pretense modern day bible thumpers will try to sell you, but they’re peddling an old, tired, out dated product that has no meaning for today's world.

"Once you invest your emotions they have control over you, but never fool yourself, they ain’t interested in your soul, they’re only interested in how much you have in your wallet.  That's why corporations and religion are found in bed together so often.  Because of freedoms we have today, many have formed their own subcultures just as valid or more so than those based on myth and superstition, and things have occurred because of the passions of those relationships can’t be easily fathomed by our current level of understanding.  Maybe, sometime it’s best not to approach these things without the right questions or perhaps without any questions at all.  Accept it as it is.  Just accept the fact it happened.  If we were meant to find a reason for it all, it would be revealed no matter what question we ask.

“The only thing you should accept on faith is everything in the universe is unfolding as it should.  Look at the four of you.  I’ve never seen four people grow more than you have over the last two days.  I know each of you well.  I even know Beau well enough to understand the four of you have reached a new plateau in your understanding of life and your place in the scheme of things.  It’s truly remarkable.  Sometimes, that’s the way growth systems work.  We go for long periods of time caught in the same ruts and wonder if it’s ever going to change or get better, and then, shit happens.  Bamm!  Overnight you have a marvelous touch from a greater power, an other worldliness experience, or moment of high strangeness, that blows your socks off.  That’s when we grow.  For example, this young man came to me two weeks ago contemplating suicide and needed to find some answers pretty damn quick.  Look at him today, he’s more confused than ever,” Master Jeb said and grinned at me.  Everyone laughed.

“Master Jeb, I don’t remember saying anything about that,” I said embarrassed he read through my facade.

“You didn’t have to, Son, I could see it in you face.  You were coming to a personal crossroads in your life which needed to be addressed and soon.  Your guardian spirit knew it, and decided now was the time for action; but, to get back to my point about confusion, there’s some truth to it, but fortunately answers have been coming regularly for our new slave.  From your description, Earl, I’d say almost hourly,” Master Jeb said.

“Yeah,” Master Earl agreed, “I figured two every four hours last night,” he said.

“Not to belabor a point,” Master Jeb said, “but sometimes, out of chaos and confusion comes our clearest answers to what we truly want and need from life.  I don’t have to ask you,” he said looking directly at me, “‘cause from the silly grin on your face there have been major truths and a few doors to understanding have been opened to you this weekend,” he said.  

“Yes, sir, they have,” I said and blushed looking at Master Earl.

“And, do you feel like considering suicide now, Son?” Master Jeb asked.

“Not in the least, sir,” I replied.

“My point is made, gentleman,” Master Jeb said triumphantly winking at me, “More revelations are sure to come for everyone at this table, me included,” he added.

“Don’t think my old heart can stand much more,” Oscar said and laughed.

“Sometimes, we don’t have a choice.  When it rains, it pours,” Master Jeb replied, “Then there’s more that happened last night?” he asked.

Master Earl picked up from there and continued recounting to Master Jeb the previous evenings paranormal three ring circus.

“You mean Wes actually told you where the secret drawer was, Beau?” Master Jeb asked.

“Yes, sir, it’s the only way I could have known about it,” I replied.

“Your bond with him must have been stronger than we imagined, but now I think about it, men in a war situation sometimes create powerful bonds with each other.  Bonds so strong and powerful modern psychology can't understand or classify.  We currently have no means or tests to measure such phenomenon.  No one has ventured research in the area.  We know little or nothing about the ramifications,” he said.

“David and I... we were pretty close, sir.  I hate to say it in front of Master Earl, but we were more than friends.  We were brothers and lovers in Nam,” I said.

“You see, I was right.  Wes never wrote me anything about your relationship other than he loved you very much.  Perhaps, I should have read between the lines,” Master Jeb said and continued, “He wrote you saved his life, six other men’s lives and was awarded the Bronze Star for heroism,” he said.

I turned pale.

“What?" Master Earl, Billy, and Oscar exclaimed in unison.

“God, Beau... I’m sorry, Son.  From his response, I don’t think he wanted it known,” Master Jed apologized.

“It’s all right, Master Jeb, it’s no big deal. There was a task set before me.  I rescued the six men and they became my responsibility to see they got back.  I set my mind, there was a job to do and if it was going to get done, I was the one who must do it.  Our only officer, a shave-tail Louie, was wounded.  I took charge and through fear and intimidation made everyone fall in line behind me.  There was a lot of grumbling at first but after I put a couple of men in their place they settled down and we began to work together as a cohesive unit.  I knew if we didn't word together we wouldn't get back.  Besides, I was the only one who could half-ass speak the language.  I took it one step at a time and I saw what must be done and I did it.  No big whoop,” I said and shrugged my shoulders.  They were silent for a moment.  I could feel them staring at me, but I wouldn’t look up.  I knew Master Earl was looking at me, but I wouldn’t look back.  What must he think of me?

“No big whoop?  And, how many purple hearts did you receive before you threw the last three away, Beau?” Master Earl spoke to me incredulously.  

“Only four, sir,” I replied quietly.

“Only four?  I’m stunned, Beau,” Master Earl said.  Billy and Oscar agreed.

“I have to agree with them, Son.  It may seem like no big whoop to you, but to us, it’s pretty damn remarkable,” Master Jeb agreed.  Master Jeb paused for a long moment and there was a heavy silence at the table.  “A total of seven, huh?” Master Jeb asked rhetorically, looked down at the table, and shook his head. “What are we going to find out next about you, Beau?  Let’s take him to the pool, Earl, and see if he can walk on water,” he said.

Laughter broke the serious mood, and I was relieved.

“You gentlemen may not realize the most remarkable thing about Beau’s accomplishment was, he was a Navy medic, a field corpsman, attached to the hundred and eighty-sixth division.  Son, I don’t know why you did it or how, but if the military saw fit to give you a Bronze Star, my hat’s off to you,” Master Jeb said sincerely.

“I try not to think too much about what I went through in Nam to get those medals, and they’ve become a constant reminder of the pain, sorrow, and loss I went through over there.  Who among us can know who we are and what we must become?  Who can turn skies back and begin again?  How do you forget the hurt and pain?  We bumble through life like bumper cars on a midway hoping one day to find a clear path.  Maybe those medals or what they represent are like ‘good boy’ tokens and some greater power somewhere has allowed me to cash them in to find you men.  Maybe, just maybe, I’ve found something in my miserable life which is good and sustaining.  With your help, perhaps I can gain a modicum of peace for myself.  It’s far more important to me than a few cold metals lying in a box.  I'd like to think we may be each other’s reward for having done something right in our lives.”

“Damn, Beau, you have a way of expressing yourself that cuts to the heart of the matter.  Bravo.” Billy said.

“Thanks, Mr. McGee, coming from my hero, that means a lot,” I said and smiled at him.

“You don’t know about that, Master Jeb,” Billy said, “Beau carried my picture in his wallet seven years in Vietnam.  He still has it.  It seems I was an early sexual fantasy-man of his.  He pulled it out and showed it to us... the picture, Master Jeb,” Billy said and giggled, “I was blown away,” he added.

“I’ll have to say that’s pretty damn remarkable as well.  You see, there already have been revelations for all of us and more to come, I’m sure,” Master Jeb said, and continued, “Am I to understand there is another letter from Wes to me, is that right?” he asked.

“Yes, I left it on my desk.  Oscar, would you mind?” Master Earl asked his friend.  Oscar was already on his way.

“Remarkable,” Master Jeb said, “I didn’t bring his letter to me today, because of other personal matters between him and me which are not secret but will be revealed in time.”

Oscar brought the two remaining envelopes including the two letters we read aloud the previous evening.  Master Jeb read the letters to us first and broke down several times as he read them.  “No one can ever say Wes wasn’t determined,” Master Jeb said with respect, “I knew about the secret drawer.  I didn’t know the contents.  The volume of poetry and these letter are remarkable.  Will you read some of the verse for us later, Beau?”

“I'd be happy to, Master Jeb, but I warn you, it’s pretty heavy stuff.  It cuts to the bone.  You might get your hearts ripped out,” I said.

“Couldn’t be any worse than the roller coaster ride we’ve been on for the last twenty-four hours,” Billy said.

Master Jeb opened his envelope.  “Gentlemen, please excuse me for a minute while I read this, and if it’s meant to be read to all, I will.” He began reading and tears began to run down his cheeks.  “Oh, dear God,” he said, sighed a couple of times and breathed deeply. “There’s nothing in the letter that’s private, but I need help.  I won’t be able to read it aloud.” He handed it to Master Earl, who handed it to me.  I began to read:

My Dearest Master and savior,

As you know my life has not been a cakewalk until I was rescued by you and my uncle Jim.  I’ve tried not to complain too much, but I need that understood before I write what I need to communicate.  There has been five holy men in my life who have reached down and saved me from certain death.  My beloved dad, Walker Johnson, Beau James, my uncle Jim, and you, are the first four.

I was never able to express to you how much I truly love and appreciated you and uncle Jim for taking me in like your own son.  You supported me, encouraged me, and ultimately trained me properly.  All this done with a fist of iron while wearing a velvet glove and encouraging love from two hearts, each the size of an elephant.  What words could I find to tell you of my love, appreciation, or thanks?  There simply are none.  Perhaps, simplicity should be considered but what the hell: Goddamn it, Masters Jeb and Jim, I love you.  If I could, I would’ve put a brass band on this page.

I must thank you for the final holy man in my life, who for me, was my shining angel with leather wings.  I know in my heart you were responsible for us coming together.  You never could have found anyone I loved more.  That angel saved me from the surest destruction of all, myself.  He made me stand and face my worst fears and ordered me to spit in their eye.  He’s a demanding, won’t give an inch, ‘yes-you-can-you-little-son-of-a-bitch,’ hard-driving, angel, but I love him more than he will ever know.

He has an envelope I asked him to surrender to you to be opened at a time we agreed upon.  You know what it contains.  I know he’ll be patient because the method of my madness is for him.  The spider hasn’t quite finished his web.  I realize you may be reading this after I’ve passed on so when these things are done, my spirit will depart.  My soul will be at peace.

Once again, I thank you for not taking ‘no’ for an answer.  It would have been so much easier for you to give up on me.  You didn’t and to this day you never have.  Thank you for your beautiful and handsome size 13 D boot.  I not only learned to make love to it, show you the honor, homage and the respect you deserve, but learned to wear it comfortably up my butt.  No master’s boot was ever put to better purpose when I was feeling sorry for myself.

Other than the angel who owns me you are the only other man I will ever think of in this life as my master.  From the bottom of my heart you are the one man who deserves the title.  God bless and keep you.  This unworthy slave will always bend his knees, anywhere, anytime, and kiss your boots with pride to give you the respect, homage, and honor you so richly deserve.

Your loving slave boy,

Wes

“Come here, slave boy, your master needs you,” Master Jeb said and held out his big arms to me.  I hurried to fill them.  He cried and I cried while I held him.  We were better after that.  Our hearts were lighter.  We made more drinks and went to the pool.  It was a wonderful afternoon.  Master Jeb and I played in the pool and he held me in the cool water, our naked bodies against each other.  “Next weekend is yours, Master.  I know you need to spend some quality time with me.  I could hear it in your voice when we spoke on the phone.  I need to be with you as well.  I need your love inside of me.  I want to make love to you the way a good slave should take care of his master.  I only hope Master Jim will remember I'm there to serve your needs as well as his.  Will you speak to, Master Earl?” I asked.

“I already have, Son.  He’s agreed to the last two weekends before you come to stay with us.  Then he understands there will be one, perhaps two weekends before you're sold.  He understands and supports your entering training.  He wouldn’t have it any other way.  As for Jim, I know more than you think I do.  I see the way you look at each other.  The two of you are like opposite poles of bar magnets pulling on each other.  If anyone gets near the two of you they can feel the pull.  It’s hard for you to stay away from him, and he’s like a bull what ain’t had no heifer in two years when he’s around you.  He’s got one thought on his brain, and that’s how quick and how far he can get his dick up your butt.  Wasn’t that more of a plea for help because you're afraid of the power he holds over you?  He hasn’t pushed, even though he’s wanted to.

"He hasn’t said anything to me about it, and he won’t; however, I know he’d love to throw a claim on your ass.  I know him so well.  Don’t you think I know you two have fallen in love with each other?  I know you love each other, but the master I have chozen for you is Earl.  He needs you more than Jim, right now.  Big Jim will get along.  I can tell you one damn thing, he’ll never stop loving you, but he can’t have you right now because I want allow it.  I want you to be with Earl.  You’ll just have to trust me on this.  I’m right, you’ll see.  You won’t lose your giant blue ox.  Jim hasn’t made a claim for you because I asked him not to.  It’s eating him up, but he has a part to play in all this, you’ll see.  Beau, put your trust in others for a change.  Let me be one of your heroes for awhile.  I promise you’ll get there safely with everything your heart desires and more,” he said.

I got tears in my eye and hugged him close.  “You know I’ll trust you, Master.  I’ve seen what you do and at this point I’d be really stupid not to trust you when you are about to take possession of me as your property.  I can’t help worry about Master Jim because you’re right in what you say.  I don’t intend to tell Master Earl about Master Jim.  I feel so damned awkward and uneasy knowing I love Master Jim, and here I am, falling in love with Master Earl.  I don’t think of myself as a trollop.  Consider, I’ve gone from nothing in my life, from the brink of suicide to having two wonderful men interested in me in a brief period of time.  I want to be faithful to one love and Master Earl has declared his love for me,” I said.

“I understand how you feel, but it will work out... have faith in me as your Master.  As far as telling Master Earl about your feelings for Jim, you don’t have to, but don’t ever under estimate the man.  He has a brain up in lights, and you won’t get anything past him.  Surprisingly, Wes could for some reason I haven’t figured out yet.  Wes would never lie to him.  He had other ways.  In his last days you would have been proud of him, he was a formidable presence.  Even though he had no problem being a slave to the man he loved he commanded a respect from everyone he met.  Together, he and Earl became cornerstone’s of our family.  Let me ask you this, do you think you could love Earl D. Shaw?” he asked.

“It’s a little late for that question, Master Jeb.  We have fallen in love.  He’s very open about his feelings.  I never met anyone in my life who’s so sure of what he wants and has no doubt he’ll get it.  I want to be his slave.  I want to serve him.”

“But... ?”  Master Jeb spoke questioningly looking me in the eye.

“Do you read people’s souls, Master?” I asked.  Master Jeb laughed.

“Remember, Son, I been at this almost forty years.  You won’t say it, but there’s a part of you he can’t have,” he challenged me.

“If I love the man with all my heart, acknowledge his claim, sign his contract with no clauses, and passionately wish to be nothing more than his slave, what more can I give, Master?” I asked.

“All of you, Beau.  I’ll always be honest with you and I expect you to be with me so let's cut the crap.  Be honest with your Master.  I'm the man who will own you in two weeks.  You absolutely must put your trust in me or back out now,” he insisted.

“I didn’t want to tell you because you already know,” I replied.

“Yes, but this one I won’t say for you.  I want to hear you say it.  Hell, I want you to hear yourself say it,” Master Jeb said.

“All right, Master, my heart is with Big Jim.  So I have this thing for big wounded animals, I can't help it,” I confessed and shrugged.

“And now, you’ve heard yourself say it, and you know I won’t allow you and Jim to be together, how do you feel?” he asked.

“Like I’ve misplaced my heart?” I asked.

“See, I knew you could do it.  That’s the first step in correcting an error, admitting there is one.  I won’t let you acknowledge Earl’s claim and hold anything back from him.  I love him like a son.  He’s been through too much for me to allow it to happen.  He’s lost, Beau.  His soul is on the line.  He means serious business.  He’s not playing you.  You can take his words to the bank.  That’s powerful stuff, Beau, having that much control over any man.  You could unwittingly destroy him.  I won’t let that happen,” Master Jeb said.

“Then he will have my heart as well,” I said softly.

“Then you agree to give him everything and not hold anything back?” he asked.

“Yes, Master, I’ll give him my all.  I’ll hold nothing back,” I agreed.

“I believe you, Son, and that’s all I need to hear.  I know you’ll give him everything.  You’d never go back on your word.  I know you that well already.”

“Right again, Master,” I agreed.

“You’ve agreed to sign his contract with no clauses?” he asked.

“Yes, Master, I have.  Should I have waited to discuss it with you?” I asked.

“Not if that’s truly what your heart wants.  Talking with me wouldn’t change your mind.  However, you realize you could lose that which two weeks ago was unthinkable to you.”

“I understand, Master Jeb, but I’ve never experienced the passion of a relationship like this.  I feel, to know that passion, I have to lay them on the line.  If he needs them to prove my sincerity, my love, or my need to be his slave, then he may have them.  He has eloquently explained his position to me, and I agree with him.  I know I couldn’t have it any other way.  I don’t want it any other way.  If he needs it that way, then by God, as his slave, my first act of submission to him, in the context of a relationship, will be to sign his contract as is.”

“Would you believe me if I told you after Wes found out Earl made a claim for him he said almost the same words to me.  However, he got it in his head he wanted some strange clause about speaking as equals about love, but he was willing to put his on the line, too,” Master Jeb said.

“And...?” I asked.

“He lost them,” Master Jeb replied.


End Chapter 7 ~ The Ties That Bind
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Proofed: 04/27/2011
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