Bara Produktions

Winning The Lottery

Chapters 8-15

Chapter 8

The incident with Mr. McCracken made a strong impression on all the boys. They all knew that Robert was protecting Alpha and looking after his trust fund properly. The boys had all heard stories about Alpha's family and were proud of their Master for standing up to them. Charley noticed a difference in their attitudes towards the discipline that they lived by. They were not exactly happy about it but there was cheerful acceptance.

Barry had settled in well. Sometimes he was called Delta-B and sometimes by his real name but apart that from he received no extra privileges in spite of only being a temporary slave. Again the boys knew that Robert had taken him to protect him and it added to the feeling that their Master would take on the world to keep them safe.

Now that he had an escape root Mr. McCracken moved just as fast as Robert had. He even condescended to speak to Bravo. His family lived in a tied cottage owned by Alpha's Uncle. It was furnished accommodation and so they had very little that actually belonged to them. They had two daughters aged nine and eleven and his wife had been having the uncomfortable feeling that the girls were getting a lot of inappropriate looks around the farm. When Mr. McCracken mentioned the possibility of another job, his wife almost begged him to take it without even waiting to check it out.

Luckily, it was the end of the month and his wages were in the bank, he was due paid leave and Alpha's Uncle was away, visiting relations. The moment they received an email from Robert confirming the job offer, they began packing and booked into a hotel that night.

Mr. McCracken spent the following morning handing in his notice and arranging his leave. He left without even seeing Zak Forrester. In the afternoon he was introducing his family to Robert and being briefed about his new job.

As always, Echo and Golf blushed bright red at serving the females of the McCracken household. It was worse for them because the older girl had seen plenty of slaves on the farm but never so close up and she stared at their manhood with obvious interest. Mrs McCracken noticed her daughters fascination and kept a close eye on her so nothing could happen but both boys found their manhood stirring which only added to their embarrassment and the girl's interest.

By evening everything was settled, Ray was hired to look after the McCracken's affairs locally, which mainly meant ensuring that he was fully paid everything he was owed by Alpha's Uncle. They left for their hotel and in the morning the McCrackens were on their way to a new life.

If hiring the Mr. McCracken had a mild effect on Robert's household, the effect on the Forrester family was as if an earthquake had struck. Zak returned to chaos as no one knew what to do. Mr. McCracken had been the only person ever to stand up to him and then, only because, he knew what he was talking about. Zak was not the brightest of people and immediately phoned Alpha's father for advice.

Alpha's father was furious that McCracken had got away. When he hired people he tended to put them in a situation where they depended entirely on the Forrester family. The tied cottage was a good example. It should have been impossible for Mr. McCracken to get another job without a reference from him and if he was asked he would refuse then fire McCracken on the spot.

The result of even looking for a job would be to make his family homeless, trapping him into a job he hated.

Zak would not be able to run the farm without him, Alpha was still beyond his control and his political campaign was being undermined by yellow-bellied liberals talking more and more openly about Training and Rehabilitation and it could all be traced to a jumped up little clerk who seemed to have more money than sense.

Although he had never met Robert, Mr Forrester felt nothing but contempt for him. He was no use politically but Robert had his son's money and he could make much better use of it.

Unlike his brother in law, Mr. Forrester was not stupid and he accepted that Robert was a force to be reckoned with but how could he control him?

Robert had a couple of twelve year olds. Maybe he would prefer something younger but he would need a license. Pre-teens had some protection up to their twelfth birthday. Most people would say that twelve year olds had the same protection simply because they were not teenagers but it was not true.

Owners needed a license to buy pre-teens which were usually restricted to large organisations but it was possible for an individual to get a license. Maybe Robert might lose interest in Alpha if he had some really young meat to play with. He might even be happy with a private deal. Get Zak to supply him and there should be some opportunities to entrap him.

It was a possibility but the trouble was, Robert was less predictable than the people he usually took on. It would take a lot of planning and the first step would be to invite him to an informal gathering and introduce him to the right people. With luck he might dump some of his useless dead end committees and start climbing the social tree.

Satisfied that he had made a start in bringing Robert to heel he spoke with his wife so that she could begin planning the get together as if it was a state banquet.

The first Robert knew of it was when he received an invitation. As usual, Bravo had answered the phone and had gasped slightly in surprise when the caller introduced herself as Mrs Forrester. Golf quickly put the spare handset on a tray and hurried out to Robert who was reading on the patio.

Mrs Forrester had heard that Robert used a slave as a secretary but it didn't seem possible. The polite explanation that Robert was not near a phone and the obvious efficiency with which he was connected did not seem to fit.

"I'd be delighted to attend," Robert answered, "I do have one two meetings over the next weekend. I'd just like to make sure that I can rearrange them then phone back and confirm. Say half an hour?"

Instead of speaking with Bravo, he sent for Alpha and told him of the invitation.

"Dad will be sizing you up, looking for your weaknesses, Master," Alpha said, "You must have got him worried though."

"And he'll be looking for donations from your trust fund?" Robert asked.

"Oh no, not at an informal gathering," Alpha replied, sarcasm evident in his voice, "Dad, would not be that impolite. And I'm sorry, Master. I shouldn't be calling a free man, Dad."

Alpha continued in a a calmer voice. "Someone might mention the good work you're doing on your committees and that you should run for office. If you ask they might explain how you could make a donation to party funds in exchange for practical help but it would be someone else who points out that you're at a party and should be relaxing. They'll be content planting the idea."

"How come you understand it all so well?" Robert asked.

"Because I was supposed to be getting those stupid notions of being a doctor out of my head and learning how the real world works," Alpha retorted angrily, "I helped them plan these parties and I know what goes on. Why the fucking hell do you think I got drunk so often? You don't know the half of it."

Alpha was close to tears. Robert quietly sent Golf to tell Bravo to ring Mrs Forrester back and accept her invitation while he stood up and hugged Alpha who hesitated, flung his arms round Robert and cried like a baby with tears soaking Robert's shoulder.

"It was all so vicious," Alpha sobbed, "Part of me said my parents knew best and another part wanted real friends and to be a doctor to help people."

"And what do you want now?" Robert asked gently.

"No one would let an ex slave touch them so I can't be a doctor," Alpha replied, "I'm used to being a slave, I like looking after your garden and I felt good when I helped the Cromartys and Mr Cornwallis. May I go to this party as one of your attendants, please Master?"

"I wasn't thinking of taking an attendant," Robert answered, "I know it's done but it's a bit ostentatious."

Alpha grinned.

"I know I've already earned a severe whipping for swearing so I've got little to lose. Sit down, please Master. Listen and learn."

Charley and Bravo had arrived, concerned about Alpha. Golf followed close behind Bravo. They all watched, amazed as Robert meekly obeyed.

"My family despises you like they do everyone else including each other. You've got less power than them so they are going to try to buy you. If you go quietly without showing off then they'll smother you with kindness, give you one of their slaves as a personal attendant and generally start showing you the lifestyle you deserve.

"You should go in the rickshaw, take Foxtrot to look after it while you're at the party and take your own attendant. It'll be the small things. The wine waiter will recommend a certain wine. Accept and you've been gently guided by them and they'll go on to something a little more important. Let your attendant deal with it. He should know what you like and should see that's what you get.

"I would ask for the details of the wine they offer, saying that you may wish to order a case and sample it when you can do it justice. That way you're in control and will deal them on your own terms.

In spite of themselves, Alpha's listeners were impressed.

"Like you say choosing the wine is a small deal," Bravo said, "My Dad might suggest something and the guest can take it or leave it. Why make such a fuss of it?"

"Because it won't be a small deal to my family," Alpha replied, "I bet they're planning what to say and how to handle you, Master. So you should do the same and that's why I should go with Master."

"Master doesn't need you to hold his hand," Bravo said, "You're being rude."

"OK. So my punishment's getting worse," Alpha exclaimed, "I'd bet they're looking for the sexiest, cutest little slave boy that they can find to attend you. They give you a chance to fuck him then you discover he's under license. It's not illegal but there are stricter rules on what constitutes damage. Our fault, the family will say, we should have told you so don't worry about it but perhaps you could do us a favour in return."

"If I go as attendant then Master will be making them uncomfortable. They'll know that I've probably told Master about their tricks."

"What do you think, Charley?" Robert asked.

"If his family is as bad as he says they are then he's going to be in for a rough time," Charley replied.

"Yes, I am," Alpha interrupted, "I've got cousins who'll do everything they can to make me feel bad but I'll do it because I can serve Master there the best."

"I think so too," Robert agreed, "I'll go in the rickshaw and I'll go in style."

Everyone in Robert's household treated the invitation as a call to battle. Echo ensured that Robert's clothes were in perfect condition and his shoes polished to a shine that would impress any parade ground sergeant. Foxtrot polished the rickshaw and lightly oiled Zulu so they shone in the sunlight. Foxtrot, in his turn, and Alpha were prepared so that their hair on their heads was trim, nails clipped as far back as possible and not a single hair remained on the rest of their bodies.

Robert looked them over.

"I know Foxtrot's kept you in chastity for a couple of days," Robert said to Zulu, "You look good. If anyone handles you then you can cum. You might get a whipping from them but I'll be pleased with you. It's a two hour run there, you'll stand smartly to impress and it'll look good if you still have energy for that."

He turned to Alpha.

"You keep getting punishments that you don't deserve," he continued, "Treat it as your punishment for swearing and being rude the other day if you like but those welts on your back will make it clear that you're just a slave. You can handle much worse but that's enough to show your family that I'm not using you to suck up to them."

"Yes Master," Alpha replied, "You've explained it to me already. I'm glad the others understand but today's about you, not me."

"Be careful," Robert grinned, "Speak like that again before we get home and I'll take the skin off your back."

"Yes Master," Alpha grinned back, "I'm sorry for my rudeness. Please don't beat me."

"Let's go," Robert snapped as he climbed into the rickshaw. Charley ran beside them as far as the gate giving the team one last check then watched as they trotted down the road.

The journey took about an hour and and a half but Robert did not mind. It was a warm sunny day and he could relax leaving himself in his slaves' capable hands while he enjoyed a leisurely journey.

To Alpha's surprise and confusion, he was told to stay by the rickshaw while Foxtrot accompanied him as far as the door where he was greeted by Mrs Forrester.

"Many parents need to know how their children are doing when they're enslaved," Robert said, "As you may know your son is one of my slaves and I've taken the liberty of bringing him along as my attendant so you can see how well he is. Of course if you prefer I can send him home and I can make do with my rickshaw runner."

"How thoughtful of you," Mrs Forrester responded, "Yes please bring him in."

She showed no pleasure or excitement, not even irritation that one of their schemes for the evening had failed. Alpha had been right and they had found a licensed boy to embarrass him with.

Foxtrot was sent off to summon Alpha and he stayed by the rickshaw. Alpha knew his family well enough not to be disappointed by the reaction he got from his Mother. She looked at him, muttered something about looking well and moved on to her next guest.

His father thanked Robert for looking after his son and ignored the boy. As Alpha had predicted members of the family had gathered and he got more of a reaction from his cousins. The younger ones sniggered and giggled at seeing him as a slave while the cousin who was a couple of years older than him simply stared.

As the waiters came round, Alpha's job was to collect a drink and hold it on a tray ready for his Master. Since there was a selection he was supposed know his Master's preferences and keep the tray filled.

Alpha had always hated these functions. His sole reason for existence was to be paraded as an example of what 'Parents in Charge' could do. He was still on display and it should have been a far more humiliating experience but he took pride in the notion that his Master was relying on him. Instead of the homesickness and regret that he expected to feel, Alpha actually felt relieved that he was no longer part of the proceedings and was just an onlooker.

"I'm surprised to see you here, Robert."

Robert turned to greet a fellow member of one of his committees.

"I'm here to drum up support for our clean up campaign," she continued, "It's a dreadful bore. I mean most of these people wouldn't care if the town was a shanty as along as they can stay away and send their slaves to do the shopping.

"I take it you're here because of your slave training ideas. Be careful. You're surrounded by vultures."

"So my Attendant has warned me," Robert replied.

She stared at Alpha and her eyebrows shot up in amazement.

"With your permission, Robert," and she turned to Alpha, "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to embarrass you."

"You didn't, ma'am," Alpha replied, "Master Robert is more family than anyone here."

"I don't know," she said, "I think that boy fancies you. He's staring at you all the time."

"That's my cousin, Silas, ma'am," Alpha replied, "He's looking for a way to hurt me. He'll try something before the party's over."

"Ah!" she exclaimed, "Well, Good Luck then. If your Master's not available then report to me if there's trouble. With his permission of course."

Robert grinned and nodded as she went on her way.

"Would you like to leave?" Robert asked Alpha quietly, "Foxtrot can take over."

"No Master," Alpha replied, "My duty is here. We can handle them."

Robert might have said more but a corpulent, self satisfied looking man was approaching them.

"I'm Miles, Wilson Miles," he said, holding out his hand, "It's good to meet you after hearing so much about you. I must say though the messages I get do seem to be conflicting. I had you down as a wishy washy liberal but your slave's back seems to show that you know what's needed. I must say that all three of your slaves are well disciplined. I'm not trying to be patronising but I am curious."

"All my slaves are well trained, not well disciplined," Robert answered, "It's a subtle point but it makes a terrific difference to their performance."

"Interesting," Mr. Wilson acknowledged, "We need fresh ideas in the party. You've never thought of standing have you?"

"No," Robert replied, "I've got the Operatic Society and a few committees I help on and that's enough for me."

"Oh Yes," Miles said, "You're trying to get the town cleaned up. It would mean an increase in local taxes but at least people would see what their money was spent on. Think what you could do as a councillor."

At that moment, Mr Forrester joined them.

"I suppose Miles has been bending your ear about standing for office," he laughed, "He never learns that I don't approve of business at these gatherings. How are you enjoying yourself?"

"It's interesting," Robert replied.

"It was kind of you to let us see how Morgan is doing," Mr. Forrester said, "He should act as an excellent deterrent for the youngsters here. It won't do any harm to point out that no one's immune from the law. He's turned into quite a profitable investment, hasn't he?"

"How do you mean?" Robert retorted a little angrily.

"Please. Don't misunderstand me," Mr. Forrester said, "You couldn't possibly have known that he was going to inherit that trust. I can see from his back that he's still a liability. I'll understand when you dispose of him."

Mr. Forrester moved on circulating amongst his guests.

"We didn't see that one coming, did we?" Robert whispered so that only Alpha heard.

"No, Master," Alpha murmured back, "It's rattled me a bit."

"Time to go, I think," Robert said.

"No, Master," Alpha answered, "Take a stroll round the garden. Leave me here and be unconcerned about what he said."

"I don't think that you should be left after what he said."

"That's why you should. Please Master. Go!"

Without seeming to acknowledge Alpha's existence, Robert sauntered off, leaving Alpha to hold the tray waiting for his return. Once Robert was out of sight, Silas approached Alpha.

"You're not the family pet now, are you?" he sneered.

"I never wanted to be, sir," Alpha replied, "I was always happy for you to have that role."

Silas' anger was never far below the surface. He glared at Alpha then slapped him hard on the cheek. The blow stunned Alpha and he dropped the tray.

"You clumsy bastard," Silas screamed as he ripped off his belt. "Clean that mess up.

As Alpha dropped to his knees and began picking up the broken glass, Silas swung his belt and struck Alpha across his shoulder blades. Alpha jerked and cut his hand on the shard. He prepared to swing again but Mr. Forrester grabbed his arm and pulled him back.

Someone had called Robert and he came hurrying over. The party had gone silent and everyone was watching the scene fascinated by the unexpected entertainment.

"Alpha, take this handkerchief and wrap it round your hand," Robert commanded, "Go and report to Foxtrot and try not to spill any more blood onto my host's floors. Now who damaged my property?"

"He was fucking rude," Silas snapped, "And I punished him. How was I to know that he's so fucking stupid."

"He's preparing my gardens for an open day and a concert by the operatic society. He was my attendant for today. Since he was standing where I left him, you approached him when you did not have my permission and as a result I think I have grounds for demanding compensation. We have interrupted Mr. Forrester's delightful party enough. My lawyers will be in touch later."

"That's it. Fuck off to your boy, you fucking slave lover," Silas screamed, "I should have killed the fucker.

Robert glanced at Mr. Forrester unsure what to do. For a moment, they were on the same side and all Robert saw in Mr. Forrester's eyes was fury directed at Silas.

"I will not have that sort language in front of my guests," he fumed, "Get to my office now."

Turning to Robert he continued, "Please accept my sincerest apologies and those of his parents. I'm sure that they'd be mortified to know how he's behaved. With your permission I'll get my chauffeur to drive the boy to the hospital. He'll get the best possible treatment."

When he saw Robert hesitate he added quietly, "He is my son. Please let me help him."

Robert nodded his agreement and Mr. Forrester hurried off to make the arrangements while Robert went over the incident in his mind. It was strange but once one emotion had broken through, so had another, his concern for his son. Robert had no doubt that they would both be back under control soon and then, Mr. Forrester would be embarrassed by his weakness and showing a vulnerability.

The party restarted with everyone happily gossiping about events. Robert was left alone for a time until a slave approached him asking if he would care to see Mr. Forrester in his office.

"Silas is still saying that Morgan insulted him," Mr. Forrester said, "What do you think?"

"It's Alpha, please," Robert said, "I think it's irrelevant now. If Silas had followed proper procedures then I would have had the slave whipped or disposed of. As it is, I can't help wondering why Silas approached him and unless I get a satisfactory answer I shall be expect damages from Silas personally. I don't hold you responsible in any way."

"It's kind of you to say so," Mr. Forrester acknowledged, "There's many who'd accuse me of some sort of Machiavellian plot."

"Oh I think you had your plans but I'm guessing that this young man has messed some of them up."

Mr. Forrester frowned and then shrugged.

"I deny it of course," he said, "I know that I've under estimated you. How do you want to proceed?"

"I'd like to hear the truth or use the punishment horse in the corner, there."

Both men looked at Silas who seemed to crumple under their stare. Realising that he'd have to concoct a story to convince both of them he gave in and repeated the conversation, finishing up with a, please don't beat me, sir.

"Alpha will either apologise for making a mistake or stand by his words if he believes them to be true," Robert retorted, "Either way he won't beg when I punish him."

Mr. Forrester looked startled and then confused as he felt a twinge of pride for his son. So far Robert had not tried to take advantage of the situation and the compliment was truly meant. He was beginning to like Robert, something his family would never allow.

While the the two men sat comfortably, drinking whisky, Silas stood miserably in front of the desk. He had taken Alpha/Morgan's position in the family hierarchy destined to become Mr. Forrester's assistant and he hated it as much as Alpha because it meant that he had to work. He found his other Uncle, Zak, far more interesting and amenable so he resented being dumped on Mr. Forrester while his parents were in the Far East. He could move out on his own but he would lose the family credit card and that was unthinkable.

"Will you be punishing Alpha?" Mr. Forrester asked, still surprised at the feelings he was experiencing.

"It seems that Silas asked him a question," Robert replied, "And he'll insist that he spoke the truth. I think he's been hurt enough for today."

"And what about that one?" Mr. Forrester asked, "So far as compensation is concerned, I'll lend you one of my garden slaves until Alpha's recovered and I'll find you another attendant for today. If there's anything else you need then let me know but you're still entitled to demand disciplinary action."

"I can't be bothered with him," Robert replied, "It's still a party, you should attend to your guests and I think I'd like to relax and enjoy myself a bit before heading for home."

Mr. Forrester glared at Silas.

"Strip," he snapped, "Mr. Smith might be a soft hearted liberal but I don't forgive the way you spoke in front of my guests."

Silas reluctantly obeyed. Compared to his slaves, Robert found him to be a flabby undeveloped youth. Hair covered his chest hiding what little definition there was and an average looking cock and balls seemed to be hiding in a thick unkempt bush. Robert had seen muscular men whose masculinity seemed to be enhanced by their body hair but in Silas' case it seemed to demonstrate his lazy, uninterested approach to everything including his appearance.

Mr. Forrester was appraising Silas as well and seemed to be coming to the same conclusions.

"Your behaviour was ridiculously childish so I'm going to start your punishment by treating you like a child," he said, "Go and stand in the corner with your hands behind your head. Like Mr. Smith, I don't want to be bothered with you until I'm ready to deal with you so if you don't want more punishment then keep still and don't do anything to attract attention."

As Silas obeyed, Robert stared appreciatively at Silas' most attractive features, his buttocks. They were firm and round, almost inviting themselves to be a target for someone's fun.

Mr. Forrester settled back in his chair, picked up a phone and sent for a couple of slaves. A boy of about ten and a girl of about nine arrived.

"They're brother and sister," Mr. Forrester said, "They befriended elderly neighbours then ransacked their homes. If someone complained, they yelled rape. They were believed the first time but the police became suspicious when it happened again. My brother Zak has the permit and technically, they belong to him."

Robert looked at them. He saw no shame or embarrassment at their crimes being discussed. He beckoned the the boy over. He showed resentment, sullenness and maybe fear.

"You've probably heard stories about Zak," Mr. Forrester continued, "All the bad ones are probably true but he does have a weak spot for young innocence. He's had one or two pre-teens adopted into loving families and others sold to caring owners like yourself but he'll have no mercy on these two.

"He says he can afford to be kind to those who deserve it because there's plenty who don't."

Robert nodded.

"I've always found people to be far more complicated than you expect," he said, "I certainly don't have any sympathy for these two."

Mr. Forrester handed him a piece of paper explaining that it was copy of the loan agreement stating that they could be handled at the discretion of the citizen in charge.

"The girl will entertain me and he's all yours while you're here," Mr. Forrester said, "Zak will get an independent, professional appraisal when he turns twelve. The last one recommended him for disposal and if the next one agrees, which it probably will, then that's what will happen so don't worry about damaging him."

Robert nodded. The boy was cute, slim but looked strong. He was hairless, of course, with a small cock not showing any signs of developing manhood. His body showed the faint remains of countless beatings and Robert was sure that his nose had been broken. There were traces of other scars and Robert wondered how the boy had survived.

He allowed his hand to wander between the boys legs feeling his hole. It gave easily to the pressure and there was no resistance and still the boy showed nothing but anger. Robert might have felt sorry for him if there had been despair, desperation or a plea for mercy but there was nothing except his aggression.

"Don't you have to rejoin your guests," Robert asked.

"The rest of them want something," Mr. Forrester replied, "My wife can deal with them. For once I'm going to indulge in a pointless act of sentimentality and worry about Morgan. The family thinks you're harming my political ambitions so they're gunning for you but for now can we declare a truce and wait for news?"

"Of course," Robert smiled, "I hear you have an excellent whisky for impressing wannabe hanger ons. Would you like to see if it works on me?"

"Actually it's cheap stuff and we see if we can persuade them that it's good. I've got some twelve year old malt for real guests.

They chatted for a time until the chauffeur rang from the hospital explaining that Alpha was fine. The cut had been in a part of the hand that tended to bleed profusely. The hospital had put in a couple of dissolvable stitches and he could go home.

The medical profession had always refused to distinguish between any class of people and would treat a slave in the same way that they would treat a V.I.P. A doctor's surgery was the one place where an owner had little power over his slave and so, both men felt relieved that Alpha was all right.

Alpha insisted on talking to Robert who decided to switch to speaker phone so that Mr. Forrester could hear.

"They want me to go home and rest, Master," Alpha said, "Will you explain that my duty is there with you, please, Master?"

"Go home, Morgan," Robert replied, "Get into your hammock, choose Echo, Delta or Delta-B to attend to you and get some rest."

"Master!" Alpha exclaimed, "You called me Morgan. Is everything all right?"

"Yes it is. Now that your father knows you're OK I can leave."

"Er, yes Master," Alpha answered, "If you say so."

Once again Mr. Forrester felt a strange emotion. It was jealousy for the the way that his son obviously cared for his Master. He wished that he could have experienced some of that love when the boy was growing up.

He walked Robert to the door and warmly shook his hand. It was a rare honour for one of his guests and more than one of the others wondered what Robert was offering him.

Chapter 9

Robert did not allow Alpha to work until his hand was properly healed. Charley arranged for a rota of boys to work under his supervision. They still had too many boys for the work in hand so it actually helped Charley to keep them all busy.

The day after the party Robert and Alpha discussed events. Alpha became quite emotional when he realised that his father had been concerned for him and was surprised that his father had even considered punishing Silas. He was a little sad but not surprised that his mother had shown no interest.

"I think dad, I mean, Mr. Forrester really does like you, Master," Alpha said, "I'm sorry I caused so much trouble. I'm well enough to be punished."

"Your punishments and wrong doings seldom seem to marry up," Robert grinned, "I think we can let it pass. This open day is getting close and I want you fit for that."

Although he was not sure why, Robert was beginning to think that the open day was going to go badly wrong. Probably it was simply because it was an obvious day for trouble but he was going to make sure that he was ready for anything he could think of.

Charley and Bravo sensed his mood and in their turn checked and double checked everything they did. Even Zulu realised that something important was happening. After the party he and Foxtrot were rewarded when Robert ordered Foxtrot to drain his balls dry.

For Foxtrot it meant a glorious night with his arse full of cock and for Zulu it meant a night of physical contact and some sort of strange communication as Foxtrot tried to coax his body to yet another erection. Both of them were exhausted but content the next day.

In spite of being permanently restrained, Zulu knew that his life with Robert was as good as it could get. If he was taken away for any reason then it would mean instant disposal.

Hoping that it would not cause problems, Robert had allowed each slave to send an invitation. Alpha, Foxtrot and Golf had chosen not to send one. Bravo knew that his parents would be coming so chose not to send one either. Charley sent one to the neighbour whose window he had broken because he wanted to make his peace. Echo invited his parents. After consulting with Inspector Harris, Delta and Delta-B also invited their parents.

Foxtrot's mother had called him a slut in court and that the family wanted nothing more to do with him. His only real friends were Robert's other slaves who accepted his love of cock so there was no one to invite. Golf had no friends either except for Bravo. He did not want to invite his parents because he thought his father would never approve of his position as Bravo's boy.

Robert had not expected to spend the day of the concert listening to the music but he did not realise just how busy he would be. It was not that there was anything with the organisation, Charley and Bravo had taken care of that but it was succession of people who wanted to speak with him that kept him occupied and a succession of unexpected events that was the problem.

The first incident occurred just before the official start. Golf was at the gate. He was helping a friend of the choir to sell tickets. A slave approached the gate standing respectfully to one side until Golf was able to speak with him.

Robert was sitting on the patio where he planned to base himself for the afternoon when he noticed Golf hurrying over to Charley and together they ran to the gate. Moments later the stranger was was being led across to the side entrance. Finally Charley hurried up to him.

"It's one of Inspector Harris' men," Charley explained, "I'm going to call the Inspector."

Robert had little chance to respond because at that moment Echo approached him accompanied by a man and a woman who introduced themselves as Echo's parents. Robert felt like a teacher at parent's day as he told them how he was doing and that he was behaving himself properly.

Echo himself was squirming with embarrassment. He had changed considerably in the months that he had been with Robert and had invited them because he missed them and loved them but he was not their little boy any more. They were acting as if no time had passed and he was still their responsibility.

They planned on attending the concert and headed off to find their seats. To his amazement, Mr. Forrester was the next to speak to him.

"Mrs Forrester was unable to make it," he said, "Silas still isn't too keen on sitting down for too long so I came alone. You've no objections to me talking to my son, do you?"

"Not at all," Robert replied, "As long as you don't plan on running off with him."

"No!" Mr Forrester laughed, "The family considers him your golden goose. You're going to keep too tight a hold on him for him to cause any trouble, at least until the trust runs out. I've not tried to convince them that you really are an honest guy."

"Thanks. I think," Robert replied, joining in the laughter. "I expect he's in the vegetable garden. Heaven help any weed that appears today."

Next it was Charley bobbing nervously beside a stranger before introducing him as Mr. Brown.

"I would have thought he hated me," Mr. Brown said as they sat down, "But he insists that becoming your slave was the best thing that could have happened to him. I still wish that I hadn't let his step dad rile me the way he did."

Sending Charley off to his other duties Robert talked to Mr. Brown for some time, learning as much as he could about the case and the lawyer who handled Charley's defence.

Mr. Brown was more than happy to talk, glad to be finally helping Charley. Halfway through the conversation they were interrupted by Charley, anxiously trying to attract Robert's attention.

Excusing himself he took Charley to one side.

"There's a problem in the kitchen, Master," Charley said almost giggling, "Inspector Harris has been delayed and Bravo says that there are a couple of men wandering around looking a bit suspicious."

Robert looked at Charley knowing that he had more to offer.

"I've told Bravo to guard the door where Inspector Harris' man is and I've told Golf, Echo and the others to keep an eye on the two men. You'll have to deal with Delta's mother, Master."

Great, thought Robert, I've got a couple gangsters trying to kill a policeman and a kid's handling it. I've got to deal with a slave's hysterical Mother.

Delta's mother was far from hysterical. She was a large intimidating woman obviously used to having her own way. She had taken over the kitchen and as Robert entered she was trying to teach Delta the right way to make the cake mix.

Delta sprang to the present position, completely overwhelmed by the situation.

"I'm sorry but visitors are not allowed into the kitchen, today," Robert said, "You'll have to take Delta outside and talk to him."

"Nonsense," she snapped, "How dare you leave a child like that to organise catering on this scale. He needs supervision and his name is Mark."

"It's Mrs Greaves, isn't it?" Robert asked, "For a start he's my slave, not a child and his slave identification is Delta. Secondly the Health and Hygiene had to visit and instruct him on correct procedures. You are breaching at least a dozen regulations. Finally he was coping extremely well supported by my other slaves and you're insulting him as well as me for suggesting otherwise."

The two adults stood glaring at each other for a time before Mrs Greaves accepted defeat and stomped angrily out of the kitchen.

"Relax Delta," Robert said, "Get things going again so that Barry can take over then go and find your Mother. If she'd care to wait until everyone else has gone you can spend as much time with her as you like."

"Thank you, Master," Delta replied, "I love her and I miss her but she can be…"

He tailed off not sure what he was allowed to say.

"Difficult?" Robert added for him and Delta nodded with a big grin on face.

"There's not much to be sorted," he added, "She messed up the washing up routine so some of that's got to be done again and she didn't understand why I'm wearing a hospital gown and cap."

"Don't forget to take them off when you leave the kitchen, you'll look ridiculous anywhere else," Robert grinned.

"And I don't in here, Master?" he ventured, catching Robert's mood.

"No more than Barry but who cares. At least you're not giving anyone food poisoning."

As Robert left the kitchen he passed Bravo standing outside the cloakroom.

"If anyone asks I'm reporting here for punishment. I've told the visitor about the snoopers and he's informed Inspector Harris. I think they're YPS though. They seem too interested in the slaves including the young ones."

"Good thinking," Robert replied, "It makes more sense."

Relieved that everything seemed to be going well Robert headed back to the patio, only to be intercepted by Charley again. There was a sheen of sweat covering his body and he looked a bit tired but he wore a wide grin.

"Foxtrot would like permission to take Zulu out onto the road, Master," he said, "Some of the visitor's children got bored with the music and were teasing Zulu. I'm not sure how but Foxtrot diverted them by teaching them the basic commands. It's become an attraction and one or two of the parents are helping. It's a bit awkward with people milling around so he'd like to get out of the way."

"Keep an eye on it please, Charley," Robert replied, "Otherwise let him go ahead. I doubt if Zulu likes it though."

"I think he does, Master," Charley said, "He's got something to do and he's showing off. He certainly looks eager enough."

Charley was interrupted by Echo approaching him.

"I'm to give you Mrs Hartley's compliments and could you join the committee in the tent," he said smiling proudly at having remembered such an important message.

"I'll be right there," Robert replied, "Go and find Mr. Brown and explain that I've been delayed."

The concert was nearing the end and the time had arrived for the speeches. Robert received a standing ovation for the success of the afternoon. None of the visitors were aware of any of the problems in the background. The Mayor also spoke repeating their thanks for the occasion and complimenting Robert on his slave training.

Regretting that he had not heard any of the concert, Robert slipped away as the encores started, deciding to see what Foxtrot was up to. There was an orderly queue of children standing by the gate. Robert watched as the head of the queue climbed into the rickshaw and listened as Foxtrot explained the commands. The child a girl of about eight, gave the command and Zulu trotted obediently off with Foxtrot running beside them. He watched as she gave more commands and Zulu stopped, turned and changed speed and then at Foxtrot's command returned to the gate and a new driver got in, this time a boy of about eleven.

The girl approached Golf who handed her the whip and she practised flicking it against the gate post. The committee member who had been taking the money at the gate seemed to be overseeing events and was even charging for the ride.

It seemed to Robert that one or two of the girls were developing a crush on Foxtrot. He was close to their age, controlling a grown slave and was handling himself confidently. He did not have a soft life and his body was well developed for a boy of his age which definitely added to his attraction. Luckily Foxtrot had no interest in that direction and he remained completely soft.

Some of the boys were studying Zulu with obvious admiration. He was strong, well muscled with his cock pointing straight out from his body whenever he knew that he was being looked at. There was probably nothing more than natural curiosity but the attention would certainly be a turn on for Zulu.

Satisfied that everything was going smoothly. He tried to make his way back to Mr. Brown only to find him getting ready to leave.

"I can see you're busy so I've left my phone number with Charley," he said, "Perhaps we can talk on another day. I'm glad he's so happy with you so maybe it was all a blessing in disguise."

Robert decided to take a few moments to relax in his office. He had hardly had time to settle when Bravo was pushed through the door followed by the two men that had been arousing suspicions all afternoon. A bruise was forming on Bravo's arm and his eye looked swollen.

"This slave was insolent and should be disposed of," one of the men snapped, "We'll take him with us."

"This is my house and I will decide who goes and who stays," Robert said, his voice not loud but he was obviously angry, "Now give me one good reason why I shouldn't send for all of my slaves and have you thrown off my property."

"Forgive my colleague," the other man said, "He has strong views about about slave training. I'm Sam Wilson and he's Jason Yately. We're investigators for the YPS and we're wondering if we can have a word with you. You seem to be having problems with your slaves.

"That's the first I've heard of it," Robert said, "My lawyer is around somewhere, I'll send someone to fetch him."

"No, there's no need," Mr. Wilson said, "This is just an informal chat. We're here as open day visitors, so we have no powers. I'd rather conduct it, sitting on the patio with some more of your excellent squash."

"Not until you explain why you struck my slave," Robert answered sharply, "Investigators or not, it's still an offence to damage my property."

"We saw a strange slave entering your property. One of your slaves took him to the room opposite the kitchen," Mr. Wilson explained, "We wanted to check but this slave had placed himself in front of the door and refused to allow us in even after we had identified ourselves."

"He acted quite correctly," Robert said. Charley had entered the room so Robert continued, "Is this the other slave you mentioned?"

Mr. Wilson nodded.

"Charley, did you tell Bravo to guard that door?" Robert asked.

"Yes Master and I was telephoning the slave's owner again when I heard the commotion," Charley replied, "Mr. Harris is coming straight over and Alpha is guarding the cloakroom."

"You take a lot on yourself, boy," Mr. Yately growled, "Slaves wait for instructions. They don't go running around as if they owned the place."

"My orders are to see that things run smoothly for my Master," Charley replied, "Today I was supposed to see that that he was free to enjoy the Operatic Society. It seems that he's already been taken from that."

Mr. Wilson fought a peculiar urge to apologise to Charley for spoiling his plans while Mr. Yately seemed ready to strike Charley.

"That will do, Charley," Robert said, a touch of reprimand in his voice.

"Sorry, Master," Charley said.

"My slaves have acted correctly and will not be punished," Robert said, "Bravo, you may rest if you need to but I'd like Alpha back outside as soon as possible. Mr. Harris will wish to speak to you gentlemen. You may find it more convenient to wait for him. While you're waiting we'll have your chat."

Mr. Wilson felt that he had lost control of the meeting. He found it disconcerting that Charley was watching him, appraising him almost, and he found himself hoping that he would not be found wanting. Mr. Yately glared angrily at Charley promising himself that he deal with the slave's insolence as soon as he was back under YPS control.

Robert could see reasons for keeping the two YPS inspectors on side and so he agreed to their request to sit outside. Charley stayed close by serving them drinks and snacks as well as listening carefully to every word that was said. Mr. Wilson noticed that there was always another slave nearby waiting for instructions.

"There's been a complaint made against you saying that you breached labour protection laws and that you're conspiring with a local builder to replace his workers with cheap slave labour."

Robert looked mystified.

"You've hired a Mr. Hartman for a couple of projects? One of his employees was a Joseph Lazenby. He alleges that he was dismissed without notice and that one of your slaves was put to doing his work."

"Excuse me, Master," Charley said, "I was the slave in that incident."

"Shut up, boy," Mr. Yately yelled, "We know it was you, that you were rude, insolent like you are now and conspired to have him sacked."

"I remember the incident now," Robert said, "Please keep your voice down. You're disturbing my guests. Charley, If I remember correctly the man was fired for failing to do his job correctly and that he'd already received two warnings for the same thing. He struck you, Mr. Hartman brought you to me and you spent time in the kitchen until the bleeding stopped.

"Yes sir," Charley said.

"Then what about the track around your property," Mr. Yately asked angrily, "You hired the Hartman's but your slaves built it."

"His son managed the program as a part of his job training. He hadn't been to college so he was not qualified to use free citizens. The estimate included a donation to their employee pension fund according to law. Charley, fetch the estimate."

"That won't be necessary," Mr. Wilson said, "Like I've said. This is an informal chat. We're just trying to understand the background of this case."

"How about using slaves to cater for this event," Mr. Yately cut across his colleague.

"It's partly a demonstration of what my slaves are capable of, through their training and discipline," Robert said trying to keep the irritation out of his voice, "The refreshments are free and I regard it as a charitable event to help the Society so I can use my slaves as part of my donation."

"I'd like to turn to your slave Alpha," Mr. Wilson said, "He assisted a Gerry Nicholson when he disposed of the Cromarty's slaves."

"That's right," Robert agreed.

"Nicholson disposed of two slaves because they had terrified the Cromartys yet only a administered a caning when Alpha bullied Mr. Cornwallis into supplying him with drinks. The slave then forced himself upon Mr. Cornwallis who felt pressured into changing his will in your favour."

"Oh for God's sake," Robert exclaimed, "Read the police report on the subject."

"We will when we start investigating formally," Mr. Yately said.

"I'm sure there's an innocent explanation," Mr. Wilson said, "Our problem is that you seem to be trying to undermine the whole judiciary system. Your slave Charley was properly tried and convicted. He had a lawyer and his father was asked to give a character assessment. Based on the information given the judge decided that enslavement was the best solution. You've only known him for six months and think they were all wrong.

"You've also turned down a very profitable offer for Alpha," he continued, "If it's all above board then you're responsible for handling his trust fund which I agree could prove even more profitable.

"Your methods are at variance with official policy. You've encouraged the Nicholson boy to ignore those same guidelines and he in turn is corrupting other households.

"I'm just trying to explain how it all looks from our point of view. Individually we probably wouldn't be interested. It's when so much happens in such a short space of time that we become involved.

"Of course, if you're sure that your actions can be answered for then obviously you have nothing to worry about. However, if you have any doubts then our recommendation at this stage is that you take up the offer to sell Alpha, dispose of Charley and bring your slave handling into line with the guidelines. Most of your problems seem to centre around those two so once they're gone most of your difficulties will go away."

Robert was furious. Mr. Wilson made it all seem so reasonable. He was friendly, even calming his more volatile partner. Yet he was doing his best to intimidate Robert. He had to gain control of the situation.

"What's your opinion of the conversation, Charley?" he asked, knowing that it would annoy at least one of the YPS investigators.

"It reminds me of the good cop – bad cop thing I used to see on TV, Master," Charley replied, "Would I be right in thinking that they weren't interested in seeing the paperwork or your lawyer because it might get in the way of threatening you?"

Mr. Yately's eyes almost bulged with fury. It was almost as if he was holding himself back from attacking Charley.

"Fair points," Robert said, "Anything else?"

"Yes, Master," Charley replied, "They're supposed to be concerned that the the catering broke the Labour Protection laws yet they're still drinking the squash and eating the food. Could you advise me Master, is it discourteous to offer to refill their plates and jug if they're so worried about it?"

"It's a good question, Charley," Robert said before turning to Mr. Wilson, "Could you answer him please?"

Mr. Wilson frowned

"We don't answer to slaves," he said dropping all pretence at friendliness, "They answer to us and so do owners who don't know how to control them. Now, I wish to see the runaway that you're hiding."

"Master," Charley said, "I saw Mr. Harris arrive and is with his slave now. Shall I tell him that these Gentlemen wish to speak with him before he leaves?"

"I said I want the slave here, now," Mr. Wilson snapped angrily, "Fetch him and his master."

"Master?" Charley asked as calmly as if he was offering a cup of tea.

"Fetch them before I take you in for a public whipping."

Charley remained still, looking at Robert.

"Please leave," Robert said trying to sound as calm as Charley, "You're here unofficially and I've asked you once already not to disturb my other guests."

"We're not going anywhere until your fucking slaves are under control. Now fetch that runaway."

"Hello Robert," Ray said, making Robert jump. He had sauntered over to say hello and as he approached he became aware of the argument going on. "Is there a problem?"

"Keep out of it," Mr. Wilson snapped, "We're YPS Officers carrying out an investigation. Don't interfere."

"I'm Mr. Smith's lawyer. May I see your I.D. and authorisations, please?"

"It's just an informal visit. This is an open function so we're entitled to check that the slave laws are enforced."

"I take it you mean the JR&Rs," Ray said quietly, "We don't have slavery in this country, do we?"

"I'm sorry," Mr. Wilson said, "We've behaved badly and let a silly argument get out of hand. The point is, Mr. Smith's slaves are wild and out of control. We've suggested taking the ringleaders away rather than let Mr. Smith face the embarrassment of an official order. We are being informal and I'm using the word slave in its everyday usage."

"Fair enough about word usage," Ray acknowledged, "But can you give me examples of the wild and out of control behaviour?"

"That one was extremely rude and dared challenge a free man's motives. Another one refused me access to a runaway slave."

"He's talking about Bravo," Robert said, "He's going to have a black eye and bruising on his arm courtesy of these two."

"It's no more than he deserved," Mr. Yately snapped, "He'll get a damn sight worse when I get him back to HQ."

"That's my son, you're talking about," Ray retorted angrily, "You'll be fighting my law firm every step of the way if you try to take him in."

Mr. Wilson saw his chance.

"We're only interested in Charley and Alpha," he said, "If we take them and Mr. Smith agrees to handle his slaves according to our guide lines then we'll be able to consider the case closed."

Just then, Inspector Harris approached them.

"I'm sorry to interrupt," he said, "I have to leave now and I'd like to thank you for your help. You as well Charley. If you do get your freedom and need a job, come and see me."

"That slave is returning to the YPS with us and he'll be lucky if he's not disposed of," Mr. Yately interrupted, "We insist in knowing what's happening with your runaway."

Inspector Harris flashed his warrant card.

"Can I borrow Charley for a moment please?" he asked.

Robert nodded and they walked away.

"What's going on?" Mr. Wilson asked, "Why didn't you tell us that he was a policeman?"

"You didn't ask and I see no reason to discuss my affairs. Yes what is it, Golf?"

Golf had come running up and had been hopping up and down trying to get Robert's attention.

"Could you go to the tent, please Master?" he asked excitedly, "The Mayor is leaving and wishes to thank you for a splendid afternoon."

"Those were his actual words?" Robert asked.

Golf looked crestfallen and suddenly he was looking scared.

"Not exactly Master," he replied, "He said them to Mr. Evans. He just told me to ask you to come over."

Robert looked at the YPS men.

"I take it that our conversation is over," Robert said, "Good day, Gentlemen."

Once the last of his guests had gone, Robert had all his boys line in his study.

"Today has been a great success," he said, "The Operatic Society Committee saw the effort you all put into it and asked me to pass on their thanks."

He paused and grinned.

"The bad news is that they're asking if we could fit in another concert before the cold weather sets in. What do you think Charley?"

"We can do it, Master," Charley replied, "but we'll have to be quick. You were saying that there wasn't enough time to advertise this one properly. Would the committee work directly with a slave?"

"Why should they?"

"Because Bravo saw how you worked last time and could do a lot more this time round. Golf is trying to follow the correspondence course you got for Delta-B and Bravo seems to think he's doing quite well. Golf could become Bravo's assistant so his other duties would not be affected. You'd also have to get the invitations out to guest choirs fairly quickly otherwise they'll be booked up."

"How do you know about asking guest choirs?" Robert asked sharply, "We only began discussing the idea this afternoon."

Charley grinned.

"You forget, Master," he giggled, "Slaves are invisible, even to you sometimes and if I'm to please you I have to know what you want so I'm kept informed of anything useful."

"You're gossiping again?"

"No Master. At least I don't think so," Charley replied, "The slaves tell me what they hear but no one else and I don't discuss what I know unless it helps you."

"Fair enough," Robert said, "I'll ring the committee on Monday and tell them that I agree. Now what happened with Inspector Harris?"

"I don't know all of it, Master," Charley replied, "I waited at the gate while he went to his car for a bag of clothes. I had to take them to our guest who changed into them and when there was a lull he slipped out and away like one of the visitors. I gather that he had been debriefed and the information uploaded to the police computers so he could risk being shifted right out of the area. I expect he was taken away by Inspector Harris."

"No one noticed that there was a police operation going on here and again that was due to you," Robert said.

"Thank you Master," Charley said quietly.

"Finally," Robert said, "You all probably know that there were a couple of YPS investigators here, today. They were after Alpha and Charley mainly but they were also expecting me to toe the official line more. They didn't achieve anything except spoil today a little. They didn't succeed because while they were telling me that you were wild and out of control everyone else from the Mayor down were saying how well you were doing with a little discipline and training."

Robert laughed gently.

It was a battle of the sound bite and ours won hands down so congratulations to you all. I'm proud of you all."

The slaves grinned back happily. Alpha's grin faded quickly and he looked worried.

"Please Master," he said cautiously but when Robert nodded he continued, "A press photographer took my picture as I showed the Mayor the vegetable garden. He likes gardening and wanted to know what we were growing. It's going to annoy my family more and they'll try even harder to get me out of sight."

"Another battle of the slogans, isn't it?" Robert said, "'Parents in Charge' against 'Training and Rehabilitation'. OK, Alpha. Think about this. Because of the seriousness of your crimes, it's unlikely that you could ever be considered for reinstatement of citizenship for a long time. However, because of your trust fund you have a means of supporting yourself. Also, you have improved more than any of other my slaves. That's less of a compliment if you understand that you had the most room for improvement."

He paused allowing the chuckles to die down before continuing, "However, you have used your time here well and you might be considered for a probationary release under license in a couple of years. Now the strange thing is, if your parents kick up a fuss it'll actually help you because more people will scrutinise you and see the improvements."

Robert paused, "The downside is, if you foul up I'll dispose of you without a second thought because you'll have ruined any sort of freedom programme that may have evolved and I'll be into a damage limitation exercise."

"Do you have any thoughts on the matter?"

To Robert's surprise, Alpha burst into tears. A lot had happened to him since his enslavement. Being trusted and liked made him feel good. Discovering how much confidence that Robert had in him was overwhelming.

"Charley," Robert said, "Tidy up the garden as best you can tonight. Take all the leftover food and drink to Zulu's shed and you can all spend the night there. Use some of the garden furniture to make yourselves comfortable and have your own little party. You can turn off the alarm and have a lazy morning tomorrow. Delta, I'll get my own breakfast in the morning so if you'd like to check the kitchen before I see it that'll be OK."

"What about you, Master?" Charley asked, "Someone should be here for you."

"I can cope for a few hours. I just want to be quiet. It's been a long day."

There was an excited buzz as the slaves left. Robert poured himself a drink then settled down in his favourite chair. He was not doing anything just enjoying the peace and quiet while letting the alcohol slow his brain.

Robert could just hear the the excited chatter of the boys as they set up their party when the door opened quietly and closed leaving Alpha standing respectfully against the wall beside it. Robert heard the door but ignored it. It was sometime before he stood to pour himself another drink and saw his slave standing there.

"Why aren't you with the others," he asked.

"I don't know, Master," Alpha replied, "If you really want to be alone, send me away otherwise I can wait here for you."

"That's not answering my question, is it?"

"No Master," the youth replied, "I just thought it the right thing to do and that I should ask you to think of me as a black brothel boy."

"Careful, I might take you up on that," Robert warned although he was smiling as he spoke, "You might make Charley jealous."

"No Master. He's too much your lover. You hold back with him, but sometimes you need a slave not a lover. That's why he gave me permission to disturb you."

"And that's why I want to be alone at times. It feels as if you're all reading my mind," Robert retorted, "Now that you're here perhaps you can explain why I'm getting mixed signals from your father. He seems genuinely friendly yet he's still pressing to get control of you."

"I got the same mixed signals when I talked to him," Alpha replied, "Don't trust him, Master. He'll always do what the family wants even if he hates it."

"Pour yourself a drink, sit down and relax. Don't show your backside off too much because I'm beginning to get ideas."

Almost in defiance of Robert, Alpha deliberately turned his back on him as he poured his drink then lay belly down on the mat at Robert's feet.

"I'm not warning you again," Robert scowled half heartedly, "Those cheeks of yours are ripe for a good pounding."

"May I take my time and enjoy this drink, please Master. Then I'll go downstairs and get ready for you."

"I wish I understood why," Robert said.

Alpha thought for a moment.

"I agree with Charley that you see us as people and it feels good," he replied, "I'm your slave so you already own everything but I want to give you something and the only thing I can think of is a reason for you to punish or torture me"

Alpha paused and took a deep breath. "Just shut up Robert. I know that you'll enjoy hurting me so stop fucking around and get on with it."

Robert looked a little shocked then smiled contentedly.

"Thank you, Alpha," he said, "I appreciate your gift and I'm going to enjoy using it. It's going to be a long night so why don't you pour us another drink and we'll both recharge our batteries a little longer before getting started."

Alpha obeyed, enjoying a companionship that he had never known with his parents before reluctantly heading for the door. Now the moment had come he was regretting his offer but pride stopped him backing out. He would disappoint Robert and that would never do.

Downstairs he placed a selection of whips, belts and paddles onto a small table. He found a low bench and placed it under some chains and manacles hanging from the wall. He carefully adjusted them so that the wrist manacles would leave him standing on tiptoe on the floor. Once satisfied, he fitted a ball gag then a spreader bar to one of his ankles before standing on the bench holding a blindfold between his teeth.

Hanging onto a loose chain with one hand he was able to bend down far enough to lock the spreader bar to his other ankle before tying the blindfold around his head.

He fumbled around trying to lock his wrists into the manacles. It would have been impossible if he had been standing on the floor but the stool gave him just enough slack.

He was a little breathless and a little scared. It had been harder than he had expected securing himself as he had and he realised that he committed himself so he took a breath before gripping the chains and taking his weight. Then using his feet and bending his knees he pushed the bench away as hard as he could before lowering himself to the ground.

It was only then that he realised that he had forgotten about the loose chain. It hung between the wall and his body digging uncomfortably into his chest. It was lucky that there was no turning back now as he would have given in. Instead, he just hung there, muscles beginning to ache as struggled to find a comfortable position and the chain making his chest hurt.

Alpha did not know how long he hung there. His arms were beginning to ache as were his legs as they struggled to share his weight. He was aware of his breathing. It was a little uncomfortable and it was not helped by the chain digging into his chest but he was not in danger of suffocating.

Even so he was regretting his offer even more and hoped his ordeal would be over soon.

Chapter 10

Distracted by his complaining body Alpha did not hear Robert slip into the room and jumped when Robert ran his fingers down his back. Despite his discomfort Robert's hands felt sensuous as the master explored the slave. It was only when Robert slipped his hand between the boy's legs that the mood began to change. For a time Robert gently fondled his balls before unexpectedly grabbing them and squeezing hard. Robert withdrew his hand slightly but before Alpha could relax, Robert drove his finger upward and into Alpha.

Alpha would have yelped at the sudden intrusion but it was muffled by the gag. Suddenly Robert withdrew his hand and watched as Alpha briefly relaxed then tensed expecting a new onslaught. He sensed Alpha's confusion when nothing happened and waited until he relaxed again.

Robert had picked up a cane and had been waiting. Alpha heard a swish, and barely had time to react before it struck his left thigh just above his knee. Even as he tried to cope with the unexpected pain he heard another swish and felt a sharp burning pain just under his armpit.

The cane was fairly light. It would sting, causing Alpha to writhe around and it would leave satisfying red welts wherever it struck skin but it would do little permanent damage. Robert was in no mood for finesse or skill and just wanted to work the tension out of his body.

As he worked Alpha closer and closer to tears so Robert's energy waned. He was touched by Alpha's offer to please him and wanted to be gentle with him. Perversely, Alpha would be insulted if he did not make full use of his gift.

He fetched the electronic mute and adjusted it so that Alpha could not speak then removed the gag.

"Do you want to continue?" Robert asked.

Without thinking, Alpha tried to reply. He yelped as the needles of electricity pricked his neck.

"As you haven't answered I'll punish you for dumb insolence," Robert whispered.

Robert slid his arms round Alpha looking for his cock and balls before squeezing them hard. Alpha succeeded in limiting his cry of pain to a gasp which the mute allowed and to tensing his muscles as something he could focus on.

The electronic mute was an object of fear for all the boys and he was no exception. In spite of his torment he was satisfied. He had taken the lead and Robert had now taken it back. It was the proper order of things and he was comfortable with it.

As Robert explored the front of Alpha's body he found the loose chain and felt the slave flinch as he touched his chest where it had been pressing into it but it gave him an idea. He attached clamps connected by a chain to Alpha's nipples. For a time they would also press into his chest as the boy swung against the wall. They should pull nicely as well if he wriggled.

He took a second a second pair, clamping one end to his cock, running the chain between his legs and clamping the other end to handful of flesh he grabbed on Alpha's left cheek.

He took another set and similarly clamped the other cheek. He then lowered Alpha's hands to head height before releasing his ankles.

"I'm going to release your hands in a moment," Robert said, "Touch yourself, the clamps or the blindfold and I'll leave you muted for a month. You may nod or shake your head to answer me. Do you understand it all."

Alpha nodded.

"Good boy. I'm proud of you. You have a job to do before I release you. Do you understand."

Again Alpha nodded.

"The thing is, I'm not going to tell you what the job is. You've got to figure it out. All I can tell you is, it's something you don't like. Do you understand that?"

This time Alpha hesitated. He enjoyed the sensations of being fucked but he prefered to do the fucking. He was not fond of giving blow jobs but he enjoyed receiving them and so gave them in return but he never swallowed.

He shuddered as he realised what Robert was talking about and nodded reluctantly. Charley had talked of swallowing Robert's piss and almost panicked at the thought that he might be expected to do that but then he realised that he could bring Robert to the edge of cumming but he could not do that with pissing. He wondered whether Charley could but, obviously could not ask him.

He was scared now. Robert would never harm him so there were limits to what would happen. Although he still had that certainty, he was unsure about what was expected of him and the consequences of getting it wrong. The pain from the clamps was a distraction making it difficult for him to think.

As Robert released his wrists he assumed the display position still facing the wall. Robert ordered him to turn round and attached a leash to the chain connecting the nipple clamps and gently tugged and Alpha found himself being led upstairs, guessing that it was to the bedroom.

"All yours," Robert commanded, "Get on with your task."

Alpha had to move carefully so as not to trap the chains between his legs. He stepped forward until his outstretched hand touched Robert.

He was just standing there, waiting. Alpha just wanted to be free of his torments and had to do something. Waiting for a rebuff, he cautiously untucked Robert's shirt and started undoing the buttons. With no reaction from Robert he knelt down, still mindful of chains torturing his lower regions and removed his Master's shoes and socks. Alpha reached up and undid Robert's trousers who allowed them to slide down his legs. Still unsure that he was doing the right thing he slid Robert's boxers down as well.

Robert allowed him to lift his feet to remove his clothes completely still neither encouraging or stopping him. Still nervous he gingerly touched his Master's cock. It was aroused but still had a long way to go. He leant forward and kissed it. Still no response.

He sighed inwardly leant forward a little further and took the cock in his mouth and began massaging it with his tongue and lips.

"Hands behind your back," Robert rasped.

Alpha obeyed but continued working on Robert's cock with his mouth. He thought that he was nicely on top of the situation. He was managing to take about half of Robert's manhood and he could feel it engorging. Maybe I can swallow a little and splash the rest over my face, he thought.

Suddenly Robert grabbed his head and pulled him closer before relaxing. Robert began a pumping action that forced his cock deeper and deeper into Alpha's throat. He had no choice but to follow Robert's lead. If he even gagged, the collar would shock him. He did the one thing that he had discovered, since becoming a slave, could avoid pain. He relaxed and surrendered to his Master.

Robert's pumping became more urgent until he tensed and Alpha felt his Master's cock pulsate and he had to swallow the cream gathering in his throat. Robert relaxed and broke his hold. Alpha heard the bed creak and he was left alone.

"I've turned the mute off," Robert said, "You can remove the clamps and blindfold."

Alpha readily obeyed, wincing as the blood returned to the wounds. He continued kneeling, waiting for his Master.

"When you go downstairs, you can remove the collar. I left the key down there."

"Yes Master," Alpha replied.

"Relax boy," Robert ordered, "Get into bed. I'm done playing with you."

"Please Master," Alpha began nervously, "Can I ask for something. If it makes you angry and you want to punish me then I'll understand."

"Go on," Robert answered quietly.

"I have a cousin. He's eleven and his name's Spencer," Alpha continued, "He's a brilliant artist and he's beginning to understand that he'll never be allowed to study it. If my family wants artwork they buy it. They don't do anything so cheap themselves."

He paused and when he realised that Robert was listening, he added, "Spencer's a nice kid but he's beginning to play up. He's Silas' brother so his parents have got one kid hooked into the family, they don't need two. His twelfth birthday's coming up he's likely to be declared wild and out of control soon after. I want to help him. Maybe my fund could pay for him to go to boarding school and send him somewhere for his holidays."

"So tonight was buttering me up to grant a favour, was it?"

"No, Master," Alpha replied, "At least, I don't think so. I thought you might want to punish me though because I'm stepping too far out of line. I couldn't let you be kind to me until I'd asked you, though."

"Jerk off into your hand then lick it clean," Robert ordered.

Alpha began stroking himself. He desperately wanted to cum but he felt sick at the thought of swallowing his own cum. Robert watched him. He knew of Alpha's dislike of cum and was watching his behaviour.

Alpha was forgetting his problems and losing himself in the moment as his stroking became pumping, he arched his back and filled his hand with his jism. As he back down to Earth he reluctantly put his hand to his mouth and licked. It was not as bad as he thought but he was glad to be done.

"If you want me to help Spencer then I'm going to leave the collar on and keep you muted for a week. What do you say?"

Alpha thought for a moment. He really liked his cousin and he could impress Robert with his determination.

"I'd like you to help Spencer, Master," he replied confidently.

"Good boy," Robert smiled, "I've set it for a low whisper so you shouldn't get shocked by accident but you do not have permission to talk. Do you want to come to bed now."

Alpha remembered just in time and nodded. He snuggled contentedly up to Robert. In spite of his, now, nineteen years he felt safe in Robert's arms even if he had to prove his loyalty to his Master.

Robert was impressed by Alpha. Even if tonight's punishment session was a bribe, he had sacrificed himself for his cousin and was prepared to do so further. He pulled Alpha closer to him and allowed himself to drift into a deep contented sleep.

He was awoken the next morning by Delta with his morning coffee.

"I thought I said that I could look after myself this morning," he growled, though he did not sound that angry.

"Yes Master but I couldn't relax," Delta explained, "I'm your slave and it's my duty to see that you start the day right and I was getting the kitchen ready for you, as you ordered, anyway."

Robert shook Alpha awake.

"Give Delta a blow job," he commanded, "And take it deep into your throat as you did with me."

For a moment some of his old surliness appeared before he slid out of bed and knelt down before Delta.

"Grab his head and thrust," Robert snapped, "Don't hold back."

Delta looked surprised but nodded. His body was more than happy to obey and Robert's command overrode any concern the boy had for Alpha. For the second time Alpha found himself being mercilessly face fucked.

Like Robert, the night before, Delta's actions became more urgent and he pumped with all his strength into Alpha's mouth. Delta stood looking as if he would collapse for a few moments while Alpha knelt dejectedly waiting for instructions.

"Delta. What do you think of a slave who tries to bribe his Master?" Robert asked.

"How can a slave bribe his Master? He doesn't have anything."

"That one tried. He persuaded me to treat him like a black brothel boy last night and he's still willing to be one just so that I'll help his cousin."

"Alpha was willing to do that for his cousin?" Delta exclaimed, "And he took all those lashes and other stuff? And he's still willing to carry on? I think it's fantastic, Master. You will help his cousin won't you?"

"Definitely," Robert replied, "I think Alpha's pretty fantastic too. Go down to the cellar and fetch the key for the collar will you? I think he's passed his test with flying colours. Oh and Delta you can tell the others."

While Alpha was getting to grips with the idea that everyone was proud of him for being so determined to help his cousin, Robert got up and summoned all the boys to a meeting.

Robert sat in a garden chair on the lawn while the boys lazed around on the grass. Alpha repeated what he had told Robert who then asked for comments.

"I don't understand your family," Bravo said, "I assumed your Father was the head. I think the word's patriarch."

"In a way," Alpha answered, "He's got the most money. When we sat down to Christmas dinner or something, it was like a board meeting. Grandmother on my mother's side sat at the head as chairman and Dad sat beside her as main shareholder. It all sounded as if they were just chatting but it was always business with them. Uncle Zak sat a couple of seats down from Dad.

"In between get togethers the phones are busy and that's how they work. According to Dad they're definitely going to get rid of Spencer. He's stubborn and probably won't toe the line so he's a threat."

"And you're a threat because you don't fit in with your father's political plans," Delta said.

"Exactly," Alpha agreed, "Don't blame Dad too much. If he didn't stay in line they'd go for him as well but even the family allows him to be a little 'sentimental' about me Their word, not mine and it certainly doesn't apply to Mother."

"So how do we help Spencer," Charley asked, "We can hardly go up to them and ask, can we?"

"Dad's got an idea but it's a bit underhand."

"We'll listen then Master can decide whether it's OK or not," Charley said.

"Master is also a threat. Their political policy is that Parents should be charge. Master is going against them by contradicting Charley's parents. He's also saying that anyone who rejects their parents standards are not automatically criminals," Alpha explained, "He's also a rogue cannon. No one can figure how he's going to react to a given situation.

"Dad's idea is that the family tests the water with some safe approaches to see how he reacts. Offering Spencer on his twelfth birthday can tempt Master with a young boy yet legally he's quite safe but if it turns out that he's got something in common with Uncle Zak after all…"

"But I got the impression that he knew I couldn't be bought," Robert said.

"He does and so do I," Alpha replied, "But the rest of the family doesn't understand honesty."

"So they'll let Spencer come here, thinking that they're getting to Master."

"We can't let people think that Master is corrupt," Echo said, "It wouldn't be right."

"Only parts of Alpha's family will think that," Robert said, "And I really don't care what they think. Sorry Alpha."

"Masters don't apologise to slaves," Alpha grinned, "Especially when the slave agrees with the master."

"Alpha's idea is that he pays for Spencer to go to a boarding school that can also look after him in the holidays," Robert said.

"Why can't he come here?" Echo asked, "We'd look after him."

"He's not a mean kid but he's picked some of Uncle Zak's training methods. If he came as a free boy he wouldn't treat us very well and it wouldn't be fair on the rest of you," Alpha explained.

"We're slaves," Charley exclaimed, "We're here to be punished. The day we forget that is the day Master Robert stops being able to help us. He'll keep an eye on things and make sure that there's nothing we can't handle."

"And how can Master Robert care about us and dump some other kid?" Golf added.

The boys had taken over the discussion and assumed that Spencer would be staying with them.

As the conversation tailed off another one began. Robert sat back and let the boys deal with it at first. Although Delta's mother was somewhat domineering she was a kindly woman and had spent a long time talking to Delta. Barry's parents had not come to see him and, according to Delta's mother, they had disowned him, considering it too shameful that he had needed any sort of enslavement. Delta's mother was considering moving away so that if ever Delta was freed then he could live with her away from the gangs that he had become involved with.

Arrests were continuing and, although the gangs were no longer looking for him, there was considerable hatred for Barry's part in the police activity. His parents wanted to stay put and were virtually siding with the estate against their son.

Barry was upset and had been comforted by the others and he had made up his mind that he wanted to stay with them anyway.

"So that means two free boys going to school," Charley said, "and Golf studying here. With Bravo acting as secretary we're going to be short staffed."

"If it would help then I'll stay as a voluntary slave," Barry replied, "It would be like earning my keep. I know you've gone easy on me and I'm grateful but from now on I'd like to be called Delta-B and work where I'm needed."

Robert was proud of his slaves. They accepted their situation as well as the limits of his tolerance. They all a little scared of him because if they did misbehave he showed little mercy and it was part of their lives that he never gave any thought to their comfort or anything beyond their basic needs. However they felt confident in themselves that they could cope, had some hope for the future and responded well to the trust that Robert had in them. They had taken Spencer on as their project and would use it to prove themselves to him.

Robert did not intend taking action until nearer Spencer's birthday but he had reckoned without his boys and the fact that Alpha had permission to contact his father so it was only two days later that he received all the documentation he needed to take full charge of Spencer immediately.

Although not enslaved, Spencer had been deemed 'wild and out of control' and in need of such supervision that his Guardian thought fit. Another document made Robert guardian with full powers of parent while a third document made it clear that Spencer's parents were seeking his help before the boy's twelfth birthday but until then he had no power to dispose of the boy which covered the permit requirement.

Ray confirmed that the documents were simple, basic and above board so all he had to do was to arrange to collect Spencer.

Robert had not noticed Spencer at the Forrester's party and when he arrived at the house the boy was still not around. Mrs Forrester was out that afternoon as was Silas and the rest of the family. Robert had brought Alpha with him, thinking that a familiar face might help.

Spencer was visibly nervous when he answered Mr. Forrester's summons to the study. He guessed that something was wrong as the house emptied and everyone seemed to be avoiding him.

"Listen carefully, Spencer," Mr. Forrester said, "Mr. Smith here is one of the kindest men I know and I'd like you to go and live with him."

Spencer stared wide eyed at his Uncle before bursting into tears, wrapping his arms around Mr. Forrester and clinging tight.

"You said you wouldn't dispose of me," he sobbed, "Please let me stay. I'll be good and do as I'm told."

The two men stared at each other uncertain what to do. Alpha approached the boy, knelt down beside him and put his hands behind his head.

"Look at me, please sir," he said softly, "Do you remember who I was?"

"You're Morgan, my cousin. You were enslaved."

"That's right, sir," Alpha agreed, "I'm Mr. Smith's slave now."

Spencer nodded, more puzzled than anything by Alpha.

"Look at me carefully, sir," Alpha continued, "How do I look? Am I well?"

Spencer looked at Alpha thoughtfully.

"Yes," he said doubtfully.

"Your Uncle is right. Mr. Smith is a kind man and he treats me very well. I have to do as I'm told and I get whipped at times but that's because I'm being punished. Why don't you ask him if you could stop off at the art shop on our way home."

A broad grin lit up Spencer's face and then it clouded over.

"You're forgetting your manners, slave," he said, "Of course you get punished. It's how you learn your place and you'll be punished for forgetting to call me sir. Stand up."

Alpha obeyed, assuming the display position, and immediately, Spencer grabbed his balls and squeezed making Alpha wince. Mr. Forrester was about to stop him but Robert shook his head.

"Uncle Zak says that if you control a slaves sex then you control the slave," Spencer said, "Did he tell you that?"

"Yes sir," Alpha replied.

Spencer turned to Robert.

"Was the slave right, sir?" he asked, "Will I be able to do my art?"

"Your school work will come first so you'd better make sure it's part of your course," Robert answered, "If you want to stay with us then I suppose that we'll have to sort out a studio."

"Do I have to go, Uncle?" Spencer asked.

Mr. Forrester nodded, "Trust me you'll be safer with Mr. Smith than me."

Spencer looked sad as he accepted the inevitable before asking whether he could pack and take his things with him. Robert told him to take Alpha to help.

"I hope I don't have to watch you being punished," Spencer said, "I know you were trying to help me. I had to warn you not to make it worse though."

"Thank you, sir," Alpha replied, "I don't think he'll punish me though."

Spencer picked up a strap and swung it at Alpha's back.

"For fuck sakes be careful," he snapped, "Your dad can't protect you just because you're in his house."

Alpha stayed silent. He was not sure whether to be angry or amused by the way Spencer handled him. Spencer seemed happy enough as he stood watching while Alpha followed his orders and did all the work and was left to carry them all down the stairs.

As they left the house, Foxtrot rushed over to help Alpha. To his relief, there was room for the bags under the seat of the rickshaw otherwise he would have had to run carrying a couple of them. He took up position behind the rickshaw as Robert and Spencer clambered on. Spencer politely handed Robert the whip.

"Zulu," Robert said, "The young man thinks that you need the whip. Would you be so kind as to show us what you can do without it and take us to the art shop next to my bank, please."

Spencer stared at Robert as if he was quite mad then looked in amazement as Zulu picked up a quick trot and took them to their destination without needing another command.

Foxtrot had got into the habit of telling Zulu all the news and he understood the significance of the conversation. He felt part of things and had a chance to show what he could do and even Robert was impressed.

Robert let Spencer wander around the shop on his own choosing what he wanted while he listened to Alpha's account of how he got the welt on his back. He warned Zulu that he was going to let Spencer drive so be ready for a few stings himself.

"Don't worry Zulu," he added, "I'll make sure Foxtrot gives you a good time tonight."

Zulu nodded his head in understanding. Robert took Foxtrot into the shop with him. Spencer glared at Foxtrot until he got the message and picked the packages up.

After Robert and Spencer had remounted the rickshaw Robert said, "I can tell Zulu to head for home but you can try driving him if you like."

Spencer immediately reached for the whip and struck Zulu before indicating the direction he should head off in. Each time he gave an instruction he struck Zulu. As they approached a busy junction, Zulu slowed down keeping the rickshaw under control. Spencer began lashing him telling him to keep going. Robert grabbed Spencer's arm and called out in a clear, calm voice that he was back in control.

Zulu responded as best he could but the rickshaw was carrying nearly double it's normal weight. They were close to the junction and it's momentum kept pushing it forwards. Zulu stumbled, landing heavily on his knees before pitching forwards onto his knuckles.

On Robert's command, Foxtrot and Alpha rushed forward to help Zulu as Robert turned to Spencer.

"You were in control," he said, "But you weren't concentrating. Zulu was trying to stop in a controlled manner before we rushed out onto a busy road."

"Yes but we've always got to make sure they don't slack off," Spencer replied, "Uncle Zak says that it's best to treat them like dumb animals."

Zulu was standing up by then.

"How is he?" Robert asked.

"He's badly grazed, Master and bleeding." Foxtrot replied, "We need to get the wounds clean as quickly as possible."

"The quickest way of doing that is to get him home," Robert answered, "Can he still pull us."

Spencer was surprised that Zulu vigorously nodded his head.

"OK!" Robert continued, "In your own time, Zulu. Let's go home. If there's a problem just pull up."

So far as Spencer was concerned, Robert had just given Zulu permission to shirk off. To his amazement, Zulu picked up a good pace and ran steadily. It was a bit slower than his previous pace but he certainly was not taking advantage of Robert's softness.

Spencer sat back, confused and lost. Everything he had been taught suggested that Uncle Zak's approach to handling slaves was right and it did not occur to him to consider any other way. Robert's gentle approach seemed crazy yet it worked. Alpha had comforted him without being ordered to and Zulu handled the rickshaw better without supervision.

He had been determined to hold out for as long as possible before giving into family demands. He had not understood that the family resented even that small display of independence and now that Silas was well established he was not needed.

All the Forrester children knew what it meant to be sent to be 'looked after' by Uncle Zak. He had been scared, since he had been left with Mr. Forrester, that he had gone too far and was going to end up there.

When he first saw Robert at the Forrester house he had assumed that Robert was one of Zak's friends yet his cousin, Morgan, looked well and did not have the same terrified look that he saw at his Uncle Zak's place so he had been reassured.

At least he would have known what to expect if he had been sent to Zak and they had got on so well that his Uncle might have even found him a good home. Now he was heading for the complete unknown. He glanced back at Alpha. If it had been Robert taking the trouble he would have smiled but Spencer had had made it clear what he wanted so Alpha did not respond which left Spencer still feeling isolated.

His confusion got worse at the house. Slaves greeted Robert without being spoken to while others unpacked the rickshaw without any orders. As he watched Robert called a slave over.

"This is Charley," Robert said, "He's the overseer and runs the place. If you need anything, tell him."

"Welcome sir," Charley said, "We've put you in a guest room for now…"

He stopped in surprised as Spencer slapped his face. Charley quickly recovered, assumed the display position and remained quiet. Spencer looked around and saw that everyone, including Robert seemed a little shocked.

"He was talking without permission," he said to Robert, "All he has to do is wait until I tell him to take me there."

Robert grinned.

"If that's the way you want it then Charley will oblige. They all will but you'll get far more from them if you if you give them their head."

He turned to Charley.

"Have you sorted out a servant for Master Spencer yet, Charley."

"Yes Master," Charley replied, "Golf. I had thought that Alpha might do the job for a day or so as he's a familiar face but since Master Spencer does not wish me to speak without his permission, I can't ask him his thoughts on the matter."

"Careful Charley," Robert chided him gently, "I've given up expecting you to be a good slave but Master Spencer may see you as a challenge."

To Spencer's amazement, Charley actually grinned.

"Thank you for the warning, Master," he giggled, "But I'd already got the idea."

Robert laughed quietly as he headed for his office leaving Spencer to look around.

"How come you're so rude?" Spencer asked, finally surrendering to the situation.

"Master looks after us so we look after him, sir," Charley answered, "I'm sorry if I sound rude but it was just fun and Master likes a happy house."

"Uncle Zak says slaves should be seen and not heard," Spencer exclaimed.

Charley remained silent. Spencer leaned forward and fondled Charley's balls. Charley stood impassively. It occurred to Spencer that these slaves could become his friends but that would be wrong, wouldn't it?

"Tell Master Robert that I'd like to make an appointment to see him," he commanded but as Charley responded with a simple 'Yes sir' Spencer thought he saw a look of surprised amusement.

"Is there something wrong?" he asked, in spite of himself.

"No sir," Charley replied, "But if you'd care to stick your head around the door I'm sure he'd make time for you."

"If he's working he won't want to bother with me," Spencer said, "He'll be dealing with important people."

Charley stood quietly, his hands still behind his head and his feet apart, fully exposed to the little kid standing unhappily in front of him.

"Punish me for being rude if you wish but come with me," Charley ordered and it was clearly a command.

He marched confidently to Robert's office and entered, holding the door for Spencer who was meekly following. He pointed to an easy chair while he assumed the position in front of Robert's desk waiting for a break in Robert's and Bravo's conversation.

"Problem, Charley?" Robert asked.

"Not really, Master," Charley replied, "Master Spencer seems to think he's not very important and needs an appointment to see you."

Robert looked at Spencer who blushed and seemed to want to bury himself into the chair. He was certain that he was going to get a thrashing for making a slave disturb his Master and he hoped that Charley would not be too severely injured.

Robert turned Spencer.

"Are you ever doing something and just hate to be disturbed?"

Spencer nodded.

"Sometimes so am I and then I'd like you to wait quietly until I'm done," Robert explained, "At other times I'd be glad for a break but never think that you're not wanted. OK?"

Spencer smiled and nodded, still too nervous to speak.

"Is there something you wanted now?" Robert asked.

"No… I mean…" Spencer hesitated, still scared of Robert but took a deep breath and blurted out, "I don't get your slaves. I should whip Charley for being so insolent but he was helping me."

"If you think he should be whipped then we'll do it," Robert said, "Was he really insolent or just using his initiative to sort a problem out?"

Spencer's face screwed up in concentration as he considered the question.

"All your slaves use their initiative, don't they, Mr Smith," Spencer answered, "Alpha did when he talked to me at Uncle's. Zulu did when he was pulling the rickshaw and now Charley has tried to because he wanted to help me and I've punished all of them for it. Why did you let me?"

"You're a free man and it's your choice how a slave responds to you," Robert explained, "If you want blind obedience then so be it."

"Uncle Zak says that you have to make it clear that you're the boss," Spencer said, "Charley ordered me to go with him to see you but I'm glad he did now."

"In that case I think Charley crossed a line and should be punished," Robert said, "He shouldn't have ordered you to do anything."

"What do you think, Charley?" Spencer asked feeling guilty that he had got the slave into trouble.

"Master is right," Charley responded, "I did go too far. Alpha's said something similar but it's hard having a little kid groping you and ordering you around. I'm sorry Master and I'm sorry Master Spencer."

"In that case, your punishment is to be Spencer's attendant for the rest of the day," Robert said, "Spencer, you can do what you like with him except fuck him. Can you punish him without doing any permanent damage?"

"I can use a paddle if I need to," Spencer replied, "Or that light whip you've got in the rickshaw."

"I love Charley," Robert said, "If I get him freed then I'll adopt him. Until then, he's a slave and it's vital that he remembers it so make sure he understands how to behave towards you."

Once they were outside Robert's office Spencer paused and Charley immediately assumed the display position.

"I didn't mean to get you into trouble," Spencer said, "So relax. I understand that you wanted to help me."

"Please sir, just let me explain something," Charley answered, "Master has given you a job to do and you'll be letting him down if you don't do it. Master will be disappointed with me if I don't show you proper respect and I'd hate that."

Spencer looked confused.

"You'd better show me to my room then," he said.

Once inside he had a quick look around and sat in upright chair ordering Charley to bend over his lap.

"Uncle Zak says that there's nothing so humiliating for a grown man to be bent over his Master's lap getting a spanking," Spencer said, "What do you say?"

"I say that your Uncle Zak talks too much, sir," Charley said, "I don't agree either. It's pretty bad knowing an eleven year kid can play with your balls."

"Should I punish you for that answer? It sounded pretty insolent to me."

Charley still seemed confused.

"Sir, you asked me a question and I answered honestly," Charley replied, "It's how I would have answered Master. He wants you to figure out what you want from a slave so you must decide if it was insolent."

Instead of beating Charley he stroked his cheeks, letting his fingers slide down onto Charley's thighs. Charley groaned appreciatively at the gentle touch. Spencer let his hands wander over Charley's hips feeling the slave squirm as he stimulated more ticklish areas.

Spencer was just becoming seriously interested in sex. Puberty was just beginning and he was interested to know how his body would develop. It had been something of a shock to realise that Alpha and Charley were trying to help him. Charley's comments about obeying Robert had jolted him even more and now Charley was offering himself for punishment just so that Spencer could obey him as well so, for the first time, he was concerned with his relationship with others.

He had seen slaves having sex before. Uncle Zak's cages were all monitored. He had been given slaves about his age to play with but for the first time he was thinking about what he wanted and not what he was expected to do. Finally he came to a decision.

"Go and lie on the bed," he snapped, "Get yourself hard and close to cumming. Keep yourself that way, otherwise keep your hands above your head."

Puzzled, Charley obeyed as Spencer slipped out of the room heading for Robert's office. He could not bring himself to march straight in but timidly knocked and waited fro permission to enter.

"Come in, Spencer," Robert called out.

"How did you know it was me, sir," Spencer asked.

"The slaves know to come straight in," Robert laughed, "What can I do for you?"

"Could Alpha come up to my room, please sir?"

"Call me Robert, especially in front of the slaves," Robert said, "Can you tell me what you want him for?

"Charley's making me figure out what I want from a slave," Spencer answered and seeing a frown on Robert's face added hastily, "He wasn't insolent or anything. He just answered a question very honestly. Is that what you expect, sir, er, Robert?"

"Yes, and sometimes I don't like the answer," Robert laughed, "The annoying thing is, he's usually right."

"Uncle Zak would worry that Charley's taking advantage of him and probably kill him," Spencer said, "I don't get how it works here."

"Excuse me, Master" Master, Bravo interrupted, "When Master has guests here, he's showing the discipline he imposes. When I, Zulu or Foxtrot go into town, naked, sometimes with welts from punishments and a pass to prove we're only allowed out with permission then we're acting as a deterrent. We all know that is how it has to be and it's Master's duty to do it.

"The difference here is that Master let's us work with him and trusts us. He gets more work out of us and we stay ourselves," he tapped his head, "Up here where it counts."

Robert nodded in approval and Spencer looked impressed.

"Golf. Go and tell Alpha to get cleaned up and report to Master Spencer in his room," Robert ordered, "Tell him to fetch the spare rickshaw whip and a heavy paddle.

Turning to Spencer he added, "I might not like their honesty but they don't like being reminded that punishment and deterrence comes first."

Spencer was clearer in his mind as he returned to his room. Charley was leaking slightly so Spencer knew that he had been obeying him. Spencer sat on the bed beside the slave, studying his body.

Charley was older than him, far more muscular than him, and certainly his manhood was much further developed yet it was Spencer who had all the power which he proved by pinching the slave hard, just above his navel. He watched Charley wince, trying to keep his arms still as Spencer's fingernails dug into his flesh.

When he let go he saw tiny spots of blood and Charley's normally cheerful face showed the pain. Oddly his cock stayed hard and even seemed to leak a little more. He'd heard about people liking pain but at Uncle Zak's no one cared whether the slaves liked it or not.

As he considered a new area of human relationships to explore Alpha arrived and, standing at the present, awaited for his pleasure.

Chapter 11

With an arrogant click of his fingers, Spencer summoned Alpha to stand beside him. He ran his fingers down the slave's cock before exploring it's inner thighs and then up into his crack, watching how Alpha reacted.

He was sure that Alpha was enjoying his touch just as much Charley had and the thought started making his own immature little cock feel good while Alpha's was definitely swelling.

"Get down on all fours," he commanded, "Charley, fuck him."

Startled, both slaves hesitated for a moment before obeying. Charley knelt behind Alpha and pushed his cock forward. With the suddenness of the command, Spencer glowering over them, Charley was simply responding to the urgent need that built up inside him and so it was something of a jolt when, after his second thrust, Spencer ordered him back onto the bed and Alpha to join him.

Charley was breathing hard trying to control his confused feelings.

"I bet you'd like to beat the shit out of me," Spencer said, "Wouldn't you."

"Yes sir, I think I would," Charley gasped.

"But you're a slave and for now I control you. Right? Do you you think I've obeyed Robert enough?"

It was a nervous reaction for Charley did not find the situation the least bit funny but he burst out laughing. Alpha was a little confused about what was happening but the laughter was infectious and he found himself joining in. Even Spencer found himself joining in.

Finally Charley was able to gasp out.

"Yes sir, you've put me firmly in my place."

It set Spencer off again and the other two joined in again. While they were recovering, Spencer clambered onto the bed and knelt between the two slaves gently fondling both their cocks, studying them thoughtfully.

"Mine looks so small," he said wistfully.

"But I bet it looks good on a boy of your age, sir," Alpha said gently.

Spencer flashed a smile of gratitude.

"It doesn't do anything if I play with it," he added.

"Give it time, but I bet it can still make you feel good, sir."

Spencer blushed.

"Sir, would you like to get undressed and see what we can do with it?" Alpha asked.

Spencer could almost feel Uncle Zak standing by his shoulder telling that the slave should be castrated for his insolence. On the other side he heard Bravo explaining how they worked together.

His cock was responding and sending out it's pleasant feelings and there were more than usual. There had been opportunities at school but family pride had prevented him from making himself 'vulnerable'. He had used slaves which, according to Uncle Zak should be enough to satisfy him without putting himself emotionally in someone else's clutches.

The extra nice feelings seemed to be because none of that applied because when he looked at Charley and Alpha he only saw two, kind, older boys offering to teach him about sex and stuff.

He looked at the older slave. His cousin Morgan had been a bad tempered, petulant youth who would have kicked Spencer out of the way rather than talk to him. Alpha was kind, patient and forgiving. It was difficult to believe that they were the same person.

Although he did not know it, Spencer was making a decision that would shape his entire life. If he accepted Alpha's offer then he would never accept his family's ideas again. The feelings won and he peeled off shirt before wriggling out of the rest of clothes and nestling down between the slaves. They rolled towards him so that their cocks rested on his thighs.

Alpha's hand enveloped his boy cock while his fingers gently massaged his balls. Charley contented himself working on the boy's nipples.

Spencer lay back with his eyes closed, feeling the warmth of the bodies almost burying him in the bed, and the waves of pleasure his emanating from their touch. He could feel his cock swelling, demanding attention which seemed to be denied. In desperation his body became sensitive increasing the pleasure from the exploring hands and his cock seemed to swell even more. His arms were trapped between his body and the bodies of the slaves and the sensations coursing through his body almost paralysed him.

Alpha's hand moved position and was now starting to stroke his cock. As Spencer humped in time to the strokes so Alpha quickened the pace. Suddenly Spencer felt himself tense and begin to buck and pulse in a way he had never experienced before and the feelings it produced, beyond anything he could describe. His whole being was focused on his pulsating penis and nothing else existed.

He lay back exhausted, vaguely aware that the two slaves were pumping themselves. Charley came almost at once smothering Spencer with his own boy cream. Alpha took longer but soon his own jism mixed with Charley's on Spencer's chest.

The three of them lay quietly dozing for a time before Spencer began to feel guilty about what they had done.

"Won't Robert be wondering what we're doing?" he asked, "He won't like it if he comes in and sees that you've cum over me."

"Not really," Charley giggled, "We'll do him tonight. We should make a move though. It's getting late and Master'll be expecting us for dinner. Alpha, you'd better go and finish off in the garden. If Master Spencer cares to take a shower I'll see to the bed then get my own shower."

"Why doesn't Alpha need a shower?" Spencer asked.

"I'm just a slave and not Master's favourite so I don't eat with him," Alpha explained cheerfully.

"Oh!" Spencer exclaimed.

Alpha left, with splashes of cum on his chest, leaving Charley standing up and politely waiting for Spencer to stir but Spencer was in no hurry. He had just experienced the most wonderful time of his life and did not want to break the spell.

Eventually hunger got the better of him and he dressed for dinner.

Spencer found it a little odd that Charley stood at the table while he and Robert sat but he could see genuine affection between them. After dinner they moved to the patio. Robert and he sat in loungers while Charley sat on the ground. The other boys gradually joined them as they finished up for the day and the air was filled with contented chatter.

After a time Charley found his way onto Robert's lap and nestled happily into Robert. Spencer looked at Alpha and greatly daring slid off the lounger to lean against the slave. Without any support it was difficult to get comfortable so Robert told Alpha to sit in the lounger and Spencer to sit on his lap. Spencer happily cuddled Alpha feeling the young man's strength envelop him.

Golf looked wistfully between Bravo and another lounger but did not dare say anything. It was a glorious Summer evening and Robert felt at one with the world so he relented. It seemed that Bravo was the only one who had not realised what Golf had wanted until he found himself being dragged towards the chair.

The laughter relaxed the evening further and they all chatted happily.

As the conversation got round to Spencer, Robert said, "You're going to have to decide what to do. We can send you off to school or you can stay here and go to the local one. The problem with that idea is that you'll be visible to your family and they could apply to take you back."

"I want to stay here with Alpha and Charley," Spencer said firmly.

"You don't have to decide now," Robert explained. "Your birthday's a few weeks off and school doesn't start for a week after that. I'd like you to really know what you want and to get to know us so you trust us before we discuss a way of ensuring that you stay here."

"I know what I want," Spencer replied, "I want to stay here. How can you stop the Family taking me back?"

"Voluntary enslavement," Robert answered, "It's the same as temporary except that at the end, it's recognised that you were mature enough to accept help. You'll have a lot of say in what happens to you. Delta-B has already accepted it and he's extending it until he's eighteen.

"Don't look so scared," Alpha said, "I'm a lifer and I'm doing OK. This isn't Uncle Zak's"

Spencer relaxed. Alpha was right. He had never seen his cousin looking so well and he did not have to decide now.

To start with, he stayed close to Alpha or Charley. He slept in the guest room with Golf attending him. During the day he shadowed Charley as he prowled around seeing that everything was in order, managing the household accounts and dealing with suppliers. One of the reasons that Charley was so popular with the other slaves was that he was willing to lend a hand.

At other times he would help Alpha in the garden but as he settled in he spent more time with Delta-B. Although his initial enslavement had been hurried and he had almost been pushed into it, he was happy enough now. Like the others he saw hope for the future and the chance of a better life while at the moment he felt safe.

At least a half of the kids on the estate where he was growing up ended up being disposed of and he knew that he was being gradually sucked in that direction. His parents wanted to stay there because his father was mixed up in some shady deals of his own.

Delta-B was aware of all this and although life with Robert was hard, it was fair and the word he kept coming back to, safe.

Spencer listened to all this and understood what Delta-B meant. By the third day he was joining in the exercise periods and not bothering to dress. At first, Robert thought he should at least wear a pair of shorts to mark him as a guest but his fair skin was already tanned from time at the pool and he was so keen to join in that Robert didn't press it.

They compromised by Spencer wearing shorts and shirt when sitting at the dinner table while, as usual, slave Charley stood, naked.

Not long after, Spencer took out his sketch book and began work. His first effort was of Alpha standing at present, nicely erect. Robert was impressed. He was busy and did not get out as much as he had hoped so Zulu did little more than exercise while Foxtrot helped the others. Spencer was more than happy to use them as his main models.

One evening, he was describing problems he was having getting it right when Zulu was running.

"You need a camera," Alpha said, "Maybe I could buy you one out of my trust."

"No! I'll get it," Robert exclaimed, "You know I don't like touching your money. I would have liked some pictures of the last concert. Others took pictures but no one really brought out the amount of work you did. People don't take pictures of slaves."

Spencer looked amazed. Cameras were banned on his family's properties. Detectors sounded alarms if mobile phones were switched on and there was high level surveillance for bugs. The Family did not want their secrets to escape.

Spencer's surprise was mirrored by concern in the family. Alpha's mother invited family members to a Summer dinner party. It could have been a pleasant affair, enjoying a beautiful Summer evening among friends.

"Are you sure they've got nothing useful," Mrs Bryson, Alpha's grandmother, was asking, "Hasn't anyone figured out what this Smith man wants with them? He must have some angle."

"Morgan was never interested and Spencer could not get into the study alone," Mr. Forrester explained, "Spencer might know something about Zak's activities but I doubt that he's got any proof."

"He's got two of our kids and he got rid of McCracken. Are you saying that's coincidence?"

"No, I don't. I think that he's a force to be reckoned with but he's not a threat unless we make him one. He bought Alpha because he knew what he was looking for and Zak couldn't see any urgency in picking him up. He's got Spencer because Morgan felt sorry for him and McCracken got a new job to remove a threat."

"But Morgan's his slave, now," Zak exclaimed, "How come anyone cares about what he wants?"

"Smith isn't one of your cronies," Mr. Forrester snapped, "Morgan is fitter, stronger and can probably work twice as hard and twice as long as one of your half starved wretches."

"Providing you ask him nicely and tuck him into bed at night." Zak sneered, "I thought you were standing against these fucking liberals."

"Smith isn't a liberal," Mr. Forrester retorted, "He believes in punishment and he displays them more than many folk for the deterrence value."

"Don't let's bicker," Grandmother Bryson said calmly, "He is questioning 'Parents In Control' and 'Training and Rehabilitation' is too liberal for me. If children don't accept the wisdom of their parents then they're no good to society. That's the policy you're standing on and this jumped up little clerk is threatening it."

"So we crush him." Zak almost yelled, "And I'll teach his fucking slaves what real discipline means."

"I'm sure that his slaves do fuck." Grandmother Bryson murmured gently, "But I'd rather not discuss it at the dinner table. There are far more important issues to attend to."

She turned to Mr. Forrester.

"I'm sorry, James," she said, "You can't go on protecting your son. He'll have to take his chances for the sake of the rest of the family. Now is Spencer likely to get tired of being Smith's sex toy and come snivelling back here,?"

Mr. Forrester shook his head.

"I phoned him this afternoon in case he wanted to return but it's not going to happen. He couldn't stop talking about the drawings he was doing, starting school and whatever. He lost me when he talked about getting a sketch of Smith's rickshaw. He was on about slow slow motion photography let him see the muscle groups properly. I doubt that Smith has touched him."

"Have we got anything on him?"

"There's a complaint under the Labour Protection Laws that's being investigated," Mr. Forrester replied, "Also, he uses one of his slaves as a steward rather than an overseer and another one as a secretary. It's still technically domestic use since he's not running a business with them but if he stood for office we could use it especially if he uses them for his campaign."

"That's a start." Grandmother Bryson said, "Unrestricted phone calls, slaves as secretaries… I don't suppose you speak with this secretary, do you?"

Mr. Forrester nodded.

"Yes but he's completely loyal and he probably knows the slave laws better than you do. You couldn't bribe him with anything unrealistic and his price would be too high for anything else."

"Shit!" Grandmother Bryson let her frustration show, "How does this piece of no good lowlife do it? Could you talk to Morgan. It seems to be a free for all there, maybe the slaves use the phone. Say he'll be welcome back in the family or something.

"Don't look like that, Silas, he'll still be a slave."

"I spoke with him today," Mr. Forrester replied, "We may not have liked a doctor in the family but now we'd be stuck with a gardener."

"OK, You're telling us what we can't do." Zak sneered, "Tell us what we can do."

"Make sure our lawyers are up to speed on the Labour laws" Mr. Forrester said, "He's building a base through his charities. Let him carry on and maybe become involved with his 'Clean Up The Town' campaign. I'll try to stay in contact with Morgan and Spencer. That way we can keep a close eye on him."

"I thought you couldn't get them." Grandmother Bryson snapped.

"I can't use them, if that's what you mean," Mr. Forrester said, "If they talk and I listen, who knows what I might hear."

It was not very satisfactory but until Robert made a move then there was little else that they could do.

Robert's attitudes towards his slaves were having repercussions elsewhere, especially in the YPS.

It was one of those days when Robert wanted to be quiet and relax. Robert heard the phone ring as he enjoyed a leisurely breakfast on the patio. It did not disturb him as Bravo would fend off all but the most important of calls so he was a little surprised when Golf appeared, carrying the phone on a tray and asked if he would take the call.

"Good Morning. My name is Mr. Witherspoon and I work for the YPS. Would it be possible to call on you some time today. Whenever is convenient to you of course."

"Yes, certainly. How about this afternoon, say about four thirty."

"Excellent. I look forward to it. I have an unusual request to make. Feel free to decline but could Bravo and Charley be there as well and be allowed to talk freely?"

Puzzled, Robert agreed. He resumed his breakfast and strolled to his study where Bravo was already dealing with his mail. Robert told Charley about the call and left him to make the arrangements while before taking the newspaper back out into the sun.

Bravo and Charley looked visibly nervous as the time for the visit approached. Robert was almost as worried as them, however when he arrived Mr. Witherspoon seemed genuinely friendly as he and Robert sat down on the patio loungers.

"I'm sorry to be a nuisance but I'd like to examine these two boys. Afterwards could Bravo and Charley relax and make themselves comfortable," he asked.

Robert shrugged and nodded his head.

The examination was brief and perfunctory. Mr. Witherspoon seemed most interested in their backsides and back though he did handle their balls and push a finger into their holes.

"That's fine. Thank you boys but you can take it easy now while I explain."

Mr. Witherspoon settled back, accepted the lemonade that Golf was serving and began.

"I'm in charge of the local administrative branch of the YPS. We're just the bureaucrats that attend to the day to day running of the system. It's part of our brief that we keep the various committees in charge of the YPS informed but we don't take sides in the politics.

"We have the practical experience and assist the various factions impartially. Now while you're stirring up those politics the administrator side is interested in what you're doing and you appear to be taking a path which needs to be followed.

"It's far harder to interfere with slaves and their owners than you might think," Mr. Witherspoon continued, "If we make a mistake then if it goes one way then we're the state interfering with the rights of the citizen and if it goes the other way then we should have been there to protect the citizen. It's safer to hold back and not get involved.

"You had an interesting time with Mr. Yately and Mr. Wilson, I believe."

"You could say that," Robert said.

"I don't like them. They're bullies and the political committee's favourites. When it's purely routine and we do get involved then like I said, we try to take a practical approach. One of the most basic issues is, is the citizen concerned actually capable of handling slaves? A lot can't simply because they can't face any sort of confrontation. You've got eight slaves. Mr. Wilson and Mr. Yately did their best to throw you off balance and failed. Not only that, your slaves supported you and maintained discipline.

"We knew of the Cromarty's and were going to take action. They were too old to take on three slaves like that. We'd have encouraged them to get the slaves replaced with a twelve, thirteen year old, fitted with a collar mute. Even then I don't think that they would have handled him all that well. Young Gerry Nicholson handled it far better and we know that it was under your guidance

Mr. Witherspoon paused as he saw Robert frowning. "No! We're not spying on you. Neighbours were genuinely concerned for the Cromartys and kept us informed. Word has got around about Gerry's activities and we do hear things.

"One of my staff did take advantage of the concert to check you out and again you impressed him. Now sometimes owners put on a show or a display and it's all a bit phoney. They saw signs of long term punishment on your boys and that is what I was looking for, today. Welts can be visible for ages if you know what you're looking for and I wanted signs of consistent discipline. You'd be surprised how often a slave resists when you handle their genitals or anus. These two accepted it. It's what I expected but I had to be sure.

These two take on far more than slaves normally do and there's always the chance that they're controlling you. It has happened. To be sure I'd like to cane Bravo."

Robert looked startled but before he could speak Charley spoke.

"You said that we can speak freely, sir," he said, "I don't see where hurting a slave for the sake of it is going help anything."

"Then I'd like to cane you as well," Mr. Witherspoon replied, "I can assure you, Mr. Smith that there is a good reason and I won't permanently damage them."

Robert thought for a moment. Mr. Witherspoon's attitude seemed polite but inconsistent. The two boys were still sitting on the ground, nervously waiting on his decision.

"I'm not fond of guests abusing my hospitality," he said, "I'll give my permission but if I disapprove then it'll be the last time any YPS operative comes onto my property. Charley, fetch the heavy rattan."

"Yes Master," Charley said, a little sulkily and left to return a little later with a stick a little over two foot [60 cm] long and half an inch [12 mm] thick and offered it to Mr. Witherspoon before looking pleadingly at Robert.

"Thank you Charley but I wont be needing it," Mr. Witherspoon said. "We're trained to read people and I've a lot of experience. The two boys were looking to you, Mr. Smith for leadership and you made the decision. I've used this trick where the so called Master has turned to the slave and waited for him to react. Your inter-reactions are more complicated than usual but both you boys obviously deferred to your Master's decision."

"I hope there's a purpose to all this," Robert exclaimed, irritation obvious in his voice.

"Oh yes, there is," Mr. Witherspoon replied, "I needed to confirm my investigators reports and the general findings of our investigation before explaining why I'm really here.

"The YPS is a mess. The Judges Panel has lost control because of the political infighting and at local level, elected committees are just as bad. Their only reaction to any problem is to launch some sort of get tough campaign. Young Nicholson is seeing the results of that. The general public is confused by all the dire warnings about soft treatment and there's no effective advice on correct handling. The result is that the number of disposals has trebled in the last five years and the numbers will keep rising.

"The Administrative Branch has tried to warn the committees but going soft on criminals doesn't make a good sound bite so we're ignored.

"Nationally it's getting harder to place slaves. Handling is such a nightmare because of the levels discipline that seems to be needed. We're bucking the trend locally and inquiries are increasing. We've had more calls in last few weeks than we normally get in a year. The catch is, all the inquiries seem to be for slaves trained by you, young Nicholson or at least, by your methods."

"So I take it we're ruffling a few feathers," Robert said, "I just did what seemed obvious."

"We had so many inquiries that flags are popping up on head office computers. I was answering phone calls and emails until about ten o'clock last night. Now, the A.B. is moving fast because we need something before the committees pick up on it. If we say that we're preparing a report then they have to wait and they can't start squabbling over whose bright idea is responsible."

"It sounds to me as if you're doing your own politicking at the moment," Robert said.

"We have some powers," Mr. Witherspoon grinned, "Believe it or not, we really do use them to make the YPS run smoothly. The reason I'm here is to ask whether you'd head up the team preparing the report."

"Head up the the team," Robert asked, not sure if he had heard right and Mr. Witherspoon nodded.

"No one's heard of you and you don't seem to have any political ambitions which makes you neutral," he said, "We can claim public pressure because of all the interest and we justify asking you because you've already started work in the field."

"And if no one likes the report you dump Master Robert as a crank, sir" Bravo retorted.

"That's enough, Bravo," Robert warned gently.

"No, that's all right," Mr. Witherspoon said, "I asked that they speak freely. The working title is a bit long winded. It's Investigation Into The Long Term Effects On Deterrence And Punishment Caused By Training, Rehabilitation And Re-Introduction Into Society Programmes Including The Benefits Of Properly Trained Domestic/Personal Servants."

"Wow," Charley exclaimed.

"Wow indeed," Mr. Witherspoon chuckled, "That's just a working title to define the boundaries of the report. It's not bad going in less than twenty four hours."

"How will this affect my case to have Charley freed and one or two others released on license," Robert asked.

"It won't make any difference at all to Charley," Mr. Witherspoon relied, "Action will be decided by the local committee and the Administrative Branch will be duty bound to support them. I'm sorry Charley that's the way it is.

"The licensing will be crazy as your report will probably form the basis of their application. Once the report is officially commissioned the whole question will be left until it is complete.

"Speaking unofficially it'll take years to implement formally so I suggest you insist on powers to try test cases to obtain raw data for the report."

"Will that work?" Charley asked.

"Charley, you may speak freely but that does not give you the right to be disrespectful," Robert said sharply.

"I'm sorry Master. May I ask, sir, will that work."

"I don't see why not. You'll be doing an investigation so field studies would be part of the project."

"I may have been a clerk for most of my life but I don't think I'm qualified to handle a report like this," Robert said, "And it'll mean a terrific workload. I don't think we could do it."

"That's what I said last night and if you had seen me this morning then I would have had to accept your decision," Mr. Witherspoon said, "The Service employs a large number of people and they're no more immune from committing crime than the population at large. We've got a couple of slaves who've been convicted within the last couple of months.

"The cases were unconnected and they both some distance from here. However they were both using their position to arrange certain enslavement orders or block others. One is twenty seven and the other twenty five and they've both been working for the YPS since leaving University.

"They'd both been abusing their position since well before they were twenty five so there seemed to be a poetic justice in using the enslavement laws on them.

"I should warn you that because of their complete abuse of trust at an age when they should know better that they've got no hope of freedom. I think we managed to stop one being shipped to a black brothel minutes before he was due to go. At their age there's hardly any opportunities for placement.

"Charley, will you we able to handle slaves nearly twice your age."

"Shouldn't you be asking my Master, sir?" Charley asked.

Mr. Witherspoon nodded.

"Normally I wouldn't even bother talking to a slave," he said, "But Messrs Wilson and Yately have been yelling for your blood and I think that secretly you impressed them. If that's the case then you deserve to be listened to."

"They'll probably resent it and that'll cause trouble, sir," Charley replied, "What will their status be with Bravo?"

"I don't know," Mr. Witherspoon replied, "Why?"

"Bravo is Master's secretary, sir. I'm just the overseer. Wouldn't their work have to passed through him so that Master receives all of that sort of work in an orderly manner?"

Mr. Witherspoon stared at him.

"It's why I asked Bravo to be in this meeting. You're jumping ahead of me."

"I'm sorry, sir."

"Don't be!" Mr. Witherspoon said before turning to Robert, "I had my doubts about this project but if you're interested then I think that we should give it a go."

"What do you think, Bravo?" Robert asked.

"Could I have Delta-B as an assistant, Master," Bravo replied, "He was good at school and understands computers and it would fit in with his schooling. He could handle some of the routine stuff and I could help with the report."

"Charley?" Robert asked.

"I've been thinking Master," Charley said, "There's power in Zulu's shed. We could set up a couple of computers and keep the two new slaves out there under maximum restraint. We could let up once they've accepted what's happened to them but if they don't settle down then we could turn them into rickshaws and sell them on. At least it would make a good threat to hang over them."

"So I assume you think we should do it," Robert asked.

"Yes Master," Bravo replied.

Charley thought for a moment.

"No Master. I don't. I was thinking about how to make it work if you ordered it but Mr. Witherspoon said that they try not to get involved yet those two investigators would have taken Alpha and me away if they could. I'm sorry sir, but I don't trust you."

"I think Mr. Wilson made it clear that they were here unofficially and that they were advising your Master," Mr. Witherspoon said, "It probably sounded like the sort of advice that you shouldn't refuse and we do have a problem with Alpha's family. Mr. Wilson and Mr. Yately do have one weakness, they're not used to people standing up to them so they probably went over the top.

"This is highly unofficial and I'll deny saying it but I wouldn't be surprised if someone on the committee spoke to them and offered them something if they got Alpha. You would have been a bonus and ended an awkward court case."

"Are you still against the idea?" Robert asked.

"I don't know Master. This gentleman seems just as capable of playing games as the others. I don't think we should get involved."

"What about the chance of getting licenses for the other boys?" Robert asked.

"Well… I don't know, Master," Charley responded sounding confused and desperate, "I think it's risky for you."

"Supposing we draw up some contracts and let your lawyer study them," Mr. Witherspoon said, "While that's being done why don't you and Charley come down to the YPS and take a look over the two slaves we were talking about and I'll try to answer any more concerns you might have. Then you can make your decision."

"We'll do that," Robert said, "I take it that Charley will still be able to speak freely."

"Of course," replied Mr. Witherspoon.

And so, a few days later, Charley left Robert's grounds for the first time since he arrived there all those months ago. He ran behind the rickshaw taking Foxtrot's place as Robert's runner.

They left Zulu in a parking bay reserved for visitors wearing a ticket stuck to his chest and entered the building. When Robert introduced himself at reception he was handed a visitor's pass. Charley was handed an armband so that he had somewhere to hang his pass.

A formidable looking female approached them. She smiled warmly enough at Robert and did her best to acknowledge Charley's existence.

"I'm afraid Mr. Witherspoon has been called to Head Office unexpectedly. I'm Mrs Wright, his Personal Assistant and am fully up to speed on the matter. I have no objections to the boy speaking freely."

"Thank you Ma'am," Charley said, "I'll try not to abuse the privilege."

Mrs Wright looked shocked, as though someone had just uttered the most vile insult, though she quickly regained her composure.

"Excuse me, Mr. Smith," she said, "I'm aware that you're trying radical and so far, very successful new ideas but I'm used to slaves being seen but not heard."

"You don't seem so keen on my methods as Mr. Witherspoon," Robert said.

"No, I'm not," she agreed, "My sister tried keeping a slave and it caused more work than it saved. She had to be disposed of. We've got copies of the proposed contract for you and your boy to glance through and raise any obvious points but if they seem satisfactory then you can forward them to your lawyer. Is that agreeable?"

"That's fine, thank you," Robert said, "Charley you can sit down to read it if you wish. Are you all right?"

They were in a modern office building, completely different to the market where Robert had bought Charley and the boy had seemed calm and relaxed but now there was a frown on his face and he looked unhappy.

"Master, could we email Bravo a copy of the contract? He's better at that stuff than me," Charley replied, "There's something else I'd like to do if I may."

"The email won't be a problem," Mrs Wright acknowledged.

"So what do you want to do?" Robert asked.

"It's the serving boys, Master," Charley replied, "They don't know their job."

"Another taste of the whip might teach them," Mrs Wright snapped.

"Excuse me, Ma'am but it won't give them information that they don't have," Charley spoke respectfully but Robert could see that he had no intention of backing down. "May I ask, do they only serve this office."

"No, they serve the entire corridor. There's a service area where he and the other idiots can mess up a nice cup of tea. Feel free to try and sort the entire floor out if you think you can. You can't make things worse."

Chapter 12

Charley slipped off the armband holding his visitors pass and beckoned the terrified slave to follow him out of the door. Before leaving he picked up a cup of coffee that had been left for Robert and tasted it, grimaced and put it back on the tray.

Holding the tray in one hand he deftly gathered up the other cups including some that should have been cleared earlier and silently slipped out of the room.

Mrs Wright looked at Robert.

"Can we trust him to wander around alone?" she asked, "He seems a bit wild and out of control."

Robert laughed.

"Oh he is that. It's sometimes difficult to remember that he's just a slave but you can trust him with your life."

Robert settled down to read the contract and it was a little later that the door opened and a man of about forty stuck his head round the door.

"Who's the new slave?" he asked, "I just rang through for a coffee and was told there was only old stuff left and would I care to wait for a fresh pot. I went down to the service area and everything's being washed and scoured. I thought the cleaners were supposed to do that."

"They are. You should have told him to stop," Mrs Wright said.

"I did and you'll guess what the cheeky bugger said?"

"I shudder to think," Mrs Wright exclaimed, "Tell me."

"I'm sure that the cleaners do an excellent job keeping the place clean, sir. We're providing refreshments and we must do an excellent job of that."

Mrs Wright glared angrily at the man while Robert tried not to laugh out loud.

"Oh, there's another thing. He doesn't like the biscuit selection. He wants some money out of petty cash to get fresh. Where the hell did you find him?"

"He's my overseer," Robert said, "I get the feeling that he disapproves of the slave handling methods here. I'm sorry if he offended you."

"That's the trouble. He never forgot that he was a slave," the man laughed, "He just seemed to make me forget and I found myself doing this little errand. How do you handle him?"

"I keep out of the way and let him get on with it," Robert answered, "It's much safer."

The man laughed again.

"Anyway June. What do you say? Shall we see what he can do?"

Mrs Wright drew a box out of the drawer.

"Give him this and tell him I want every penny accounted for."

"Oh God. I'm sure I'm going to get that look again when I do."

The door closed.

Robert went back to reading the contract while Mrs Wright kept glancing anxiously at the door.

Finally it opened and the three slaves entered. The two resident boys were about ten years old and still looked scared. One of them carried a tray. Instead of the dirty version covered in cup rings that they had used earlier, this one was spotless. It was covered in paper towel and on it stood a plate of biscuits, a dish holding a selection of biscuits and snacks, a bowl of sugar, a jug of milk, a jar of coffee, yet another dish containing a selection of teas and a number of plates, cups and saucers.

Charley stood to one side and watched as the other slave waited to take the orders. Mrs Wright watched as the boy prepared her drink and offered it to her then made Robert's coffee before the three boys slipped out of the room again.

As she sipped her tea she checked the money, receipt and itemised list that Charley had given her.

The office should have been quiet and Robert should have been able to read the contract in peace but three times the phone rang with people in the offices complimenting them on the new refreshments service.

"I think your boy has made his point," Mrs Wright said, "That was Mrs Tapley from downstairs. She wants to know when their slaves are are going to be brought up to speed."

"That depends on whoever manages them," Charley's training won't last if you revert to your old practices."

"Yes but they're in line with the latest Deterrence and Discipline guidelines," she exclaimed, "You don't expect us to go against them do you?"

"That depends on how disciplined that you think Charley is. He's a talented young man but has to devote every ounce of his abilities to pleasing me and he can't even sit down without my permission. Don't you think that has a deterrence value?"

Mrs Wright stayed silent.

Suddenly the door burst open and one of the slave boys came rushing in.

"Charley's being beaten. He said for you to come," he gasped out.

Robert leapt to his feet and was out the door before Mrs Wright had collected her senses. They followed the slave into another office where a man was forcing one of Charley's arms high up his back to keep him bent over a table while laying into his backside with a heavy belt.

Charley's arse was already purple and he was crying freely from the pain.

"Stop that," Robert yelled as he grabbed the man's arm before it could land another stroke.

"Who the fuck are you? How dare you interfere?" the man snarled.

"He's my slave and you're damaging him not punishing him," Robert yelled, "Now let him up."

"Like fuck, I will," the man yelled just as angrily, "When I'm finished with him, he's going to be disposed of."

"That will do, Mr. Jenkins," Mrs Wright said sharply, "I'll thank you to keep a civil tongue in your head when I'm around. Now let him up."

The man lost some of his anger and reluctantly obeyed. Charley rushed over to Robert and wrapped his arms round his master still crying and wanting to be comforted. He could not hold onto Robert for long. The pain was too great and he danced around gently holding his cheeks trying to find some comfort.

"That boy was rude, insolent and running wild," Mr. Jenkins said, "I demand that he be sent somewhere that his behaviour doesn't matter."

"Would you tell us what happened, please," Mrs Wright requested.

"Where do I start? First when I rang through for coffee he told me to wait and that they were busy. When he did finally arrive he told me that if I didn't like the selection of biscuits that I should get my own and when I slapped one of the other boys for carelessness he told me that it was my fault and that I shouldn't be so stupid."

Robert looked at Charley. The boy was in agony but he had understood what Mr. Jenkins had said and was shaking his head.

"I knew he was too good to be true," Mrs Wright said, "Do you mind if I find out what other trouble he's caused. Perhaps you could return to the office and I'll join you."

Robert helped Charley along the corridor into the office and suggested he lie down on the floor. Charley refused and eased himself onto Robert's lap.

"It's very odd," Mrs Wright said when she returned, "Everyone else speaks so highly of him. I wonder what made him turn on Mr. Jenkins like that."

"What makes you think that he did," Robert said gently, "I'd like to hear Charley's version of events."

"Please Master," Charley sobbed, "Let me be quiet for a while. Does Mrs Wright have a list of everyone who made complaints about slaves?"

Robert looked at Mrs Wright as if asking. She shrugged, turned to her computer then studied it more carefully surprise in her face.

"Nearly every one comes from Mr. Jenkins," she said, "What's going on?"

"Can we let Charley rest a little longer, please," Robert asked, "Can you dig up any more information on that thing."

As Mrs Wright complied a frown began to cloud her face. Finally she turned to Robert and said in a surprisingly gentle voice, "I'd like to know what that young man thinks is going on. In his own time and when he's ready. While we're waiting, let's have another drink. Charley, if your Master permits, what would you like?"

"May I have a glass of water, please Ma'am," Charley answered in a much calmer tone.

He had recovered enough to watch critically as the two slaves served them. They seemed to tense when they saw him watching but they had a slight grin on their faces as if glad to see him.

"Would someone tell what's going on, please?" Robert asked irritably.

Charley did his best and when he seemed to confirm her suspicions she took over the story. There were special rules for pre-teen slaves. Only organisations holding permits could have them and they could only be sold to other organisations with permits unless they were declared wild and out of control.

There was no thought of child protection in the rules. The problem was that black brothels would pay almost any price to get them and the children would disappear whether they deserved it not and while the public could accept slavery they could not accept the virtual mass murder of children.

When Mr. Jenkins complained about the slaves their files arrived on his desk for assessment. He immediately declared them wild and out of control and and arranged their disposal. Charley had picked up a rumour among the slaves that he got a backhander from a brothel for letting them know a child slave was up for disposal. One of the slaves that Charley was working with happened to be a particularly cute fair headed ten year old and Mr. Jenkins would get a bonus for delivering him.

Mr. Jenkins had a visitor so when the boy was serving drinks Mr. Jenkins tripped him so that he fell onto the visitor. The desk was in the way so the visitor had not seen anything but Charley had.

When Mr. Jenkins apologised profusely to the visitor saying the boy acted out of spite and would be disposed of, Charley intervened. He insisted that he was going to see Mrs Wright which was when Mr. Jenkins grabbed him. The visitor, alarmed at the developing pandemonium beat a hasty retreat and Charley just had time to send the slave to get Robert.

Mrs Wright worked at her computer for a time then sent for Mr. Jenkins. He saw Charley cuddled up Robert and started to protest.

"I have no intention of discussing your private affairs in front of a stranger or a slave," she said, "However I can tell you that a press release will be issued shortly saying that an officer of the YPS is under police investigation for procuring pre-teens for a black brothel. The evidence is based on an inordinate number of orders issued by the same man and the same brothel picking up all the boys concerned.

"A visitor to this building who was speaking with the receptionist, agreed that an incident involving a slave did seem contrived especially in the light of his general behaviour and the reports received from other rooms the slave served."

"Another matter that does concern others in this room is that a complaint has been made against you for the language and violence used in the presence of a visitor to this building. I suspect that Mr. Smith here may wish to make a similar complaint.

"Mr. Smith may also wish to seek compensation for damage done to his property. The slave you beat may well be unable to work for a few days and work I had authorised has been disrupted."

"Fuck you," Mr. Jenkins shouted, "You've let a gang of slaves run rings round you and now you're harassing a free man. How stupid can you be?"

"Not as stupid as a man in a well job who betrays the trust of his employers and gets a minimum of twenty years hard labour," Mrs Wright replied.

Mr. Jenkins stood transfixed staring at her.

"What! For the sake of a few useless brats," he said, fear evident in his voice now.

"Oh no. Not because of a few slaves but for the breach of trust," Mrs Wright corrected him, "Not only that we'll ask that he be muted and under full restraint so that he can't communicate any more confidential information."

The phone rang. Mrs Wright acknowledged the caller who spoke briefly and she put the phone down.

"That was security," she said, "The police are on their way and they've been asked to detain the man until they get here. Is there anything else, Mr. Jenkins?"

Mr. Jenkins hurried to the door and left. Charley wondered whether he was going to run for it but he doubted that he could get out of the building.

"I'm sorry about all this, Mr. Smith," Mrs Wright said, "I take it that you're no longer interested in helping us. I would understand."

"No, Charley would be closely involved and he already had reservations."

"Please Master, I think we should do it," Charley interrupted, "I didn't like the way that the others seemed to be playing games with us and I didn't trust them. I was rude to Mr. Jenkins so I deserved some punishment but they took his breach of trust thing very seriously so maybe we can trust them."

Turning to Mrs Wright he asked, "Ma'am why do people think that slaves are fully trained when they never are?"

Charley's question killed further discussion because it was unanswerable and it left another question. Why had no one asked it before?

Bravo had emailed back to say that he could see nothing wrong with the contract and that he'd forwarded a copy to his father. Somehow Robert and Mrs Wright seemed to follow the boys lead and their association would continue.

At Charley's request he went down to the cells to see the new slaves alone. Robert was uneasy but Mrs Wright turned on a monitor so that they could watch events

Word had got around about what had happened so Charley was treated a lot more politely than a slave could normally expect. He walked a little stiffly and his backside was a vivid purple which made people stare.

Instead of the inspection rooms that free citizens would be invited to use he had to make do with the cell area but Charley did not seem to mind. Guards pulled the slaves out of a cell and made them stand against a wall, their hands handcuffed in front them. The only instructions the guards gave them was to remain standing against the wall before leaving them alone as Charley entered.

Charley looked them over carefully before ordering them to raise their arms above their heads. The older one began to obey but when he realised that the other was not moving, he dropped his arms again.

Charley nodded to himself, got a prod from a table and before he could react touched the younger slave on his leg just above his knee. The slave screamed at the electric discharge into his body and bent forward to knock Charley's arm away but Charley was already stepping back.

The slave was in a quandary. He had learnt enough not to step away from the wall but he was determined to deal with the kid tormenting him. He swung his hands forwards almost as if he wanted to grab Charley by the neck and throttle him and Charley pushed the prod against his forearm making the slave scream again and jerk his arms back.

He yelped again. The handcuffs were rigid and unyielding and as he jerked his arms around so they were bent in the cuffs nearly snapping his wrists.

Charley moved sideways and glared at the other slave who got the message and raised his arms. Charley stepped back and stood waiting for the younger slave's next move. Nothing happened so Charley raised the prod again. The slave's nerve failed him and he raised his arms.

Watching the fury and despair in the slaves eyes Charley stepped forward and grabbed the the slave's balls making him flinch. Charley ran a finger under the slave's crotch and pressed against his anus, feeling it give to allow him in. Satisfied Charley stepped back.

"My Master will be down shortly to assess your knowledge and skills," he said, "If they're adequate you'll become his property.

"If you don't want a kid like me as your overseer, if you want to get tortured for no good reason or if you want to get disposed of then carry on playing up."

Charley turned round.

"Look at me. I'm a slave and I get beaten," he turned backed again, "So will you. Listen to me. Do I sound scared or broken? You needn't be if you behave. It's your choice."

He walked to the door, opened it and said in a clear confident voice,"Would you inform our Master that we're ready for him, please sir."

Robert's interview went well. The two slaves were respectful and answered Robert's questions politely and fully.

"What do you think, Charley?" Robert asked.

"They need basic training Master and they could be fitter. I'm not even sure that they could follow you home without embarrassing you. It depends on whether you're satisfied that they could be useful to you."

"I could go on ahead and let you bring them at your own pace."

"No, Master," Charley replied firmly, "They're not trained. Their performance and behaviour would reflect poorly on you."

Mrs Wright laughed quietly to herself as she watched the scene. The guards were ready to pounce, grab Charley and tie him up for the beating he so richly deserved. Before today she would have agreed with them but she could see now that even when arguing with Robert he was supporting his Master.

She glanced up from the monitor to look up at the slave who was serving her another cup of tea.

"It's been an interesting day, hasn't it?" she said gently.

The slave was briefly terrified at being seen, realised that the comment was kindly meant then grinned.

"Yes Ma'am," he replied, "Thank you for saving us."

"I think you need to thank Charley for that," she said.

Greatly daring the boy replied, "No Ma'am. According to Charley, you're in charge so it's down to you."

The other boy stared in shock at his friends rudeness, dreading the retribution that would follow. Instead Mrs Wright stared at the unfortunate boy thoughtfully.

"If one thing could make your lives better here, what would it be?" she asked.

"Someone in command like Charley," the boy replied without hesitation, then carefully judging Mrs Wright's mood added, "Getting our freedom would be best of all but you didn't mean that, did you?

Mrs Wright looked shocked, briefly angry then laughed.

"Be careful. You may have learnt too much from him."

She spoke severely but the boy could still see the laughter in her eyes.

"What's your name, boy?"

"It used to be Paul," the boy said sadly, "I don't seem to have one now.

"Paul will do for now," Mrs Wright said, "If I said that you were head boy and only answerable to me, could you cope? Speak freely and answer honestly."

"I don't know Ma'am," Paul replied, "Do you mean this floor or all the floors?"

"Could you handle all the floors? Some of the slaves are older than you. You might have trouble but I'll help you all I can."

"Would I be punished if I didn't know something or if I made a proper mistake. Supposing someone told me to do something differently."

"Good questions," Mrs Wright said, "I've got some other work to do so come and see me at six o'clock and we'll see what we can work out. Your first job though is to tell your friend there to close his mouth and stop looking as if he's just seen a spaceship fly past the window."

Unaware of the upheavals they caused at the YPS offices Robert and Charley headed home in thoughtful silence. They were both glad that Charley had to run behind the rickshaw as it meant that neither could disturb the other's thoughts.

So far as Robert was concerned he could not help worrying that Charley always seemed to get punished for helping others while Charley worried that his efforts always seemed to make trouble for his Master.

Charley still enjoyed being Robert's slave. Maybe he would prefer to sit with his lover cuddling him in the rickshaw and he could do without the bruising from yet another beating but Robert was proud of him for the way he made the best of his life and he had more freedom and responsibility than most free boys so he accepted that his life could be a lot worse.

He would never tell Robert but he enjoyed the way so many people had started off thinking that he was just a useless nuisance just because he was a slave and ended up doing what he said.

With both of them wanting things to go quietly for the other the next few days were peaceful. The YPS kept the slaves until the contracts were signed then delivered them. Charley had decided that their ankles should remain shackled, with short chains from their wrists leading to a collar round their necks.

Foxtrot now had three restrained slaves to look after but after looking at the new slaves and their adult sized cocks decided that he could be in for lot's of fun. Robert decided to name the younger of the two newcomers, Yankee. He was the more dominant and resented being ordered around by kids. The older one, now X-ray just accepted the situation and was neither resentful or pleased with his new circumstances.

The first big surprise was when Bravo answered the phone and a scared squeaky voice asked if Charley could visit the YPS again to teach the slaves more stuff. Robert left it up to Charley and he arranged to meet up there with Gerry.

After a couple of visits Charley found his business had a new and very important client. He still called it his owner training business because he still saw it as changing owners attitudes.

The second visit was worrying because Charley had been called into Mr. Witherspoon's office and questioned about his court case and his hopes about being released. However a couple of days later Robert received a letter. Unusually there was a second letter addressed to 'Slave Charley care of Mr. Robert Smith'.

They were copies of a letter sent to Robert's lawyer and read:

Assessment of the slave Charley owned by Mr. Robert Smith.

Having read the arguments presented by Hamilton-Reilly Associates it would seem possible that his original conviction could be considered unsafe.

Further it would seem that the applicant could make make a further application based on his assistance in exposing a far more serious crime. It is unlikely that it could succeed according to the exact letter of the law but the case would result in a lot of unhelpful information entering the public domain. It may be wiser to consider the moral strength of the applicant's case rather than the legal.

It is not disputed that Charley's original home life is now untenable and he cannot return there. He is too young and lacks the means to support himself. Neither can it be be disputed that under the guidance of Mr. Smith, he has turned into a formidable young man. It may be an unusual description of a slave but those who have met him agree.

Providing that Charley agrees to voluntary enslavement until his eighteenth birthday and further agrees to accept such training and education to the same standard that he is already receiving then we therefore recommend that the application to free slave Charley should not be opposed and that every assistance should be offered to process the application as quickly as possible.

Signed A. X. Witherspoon, Manager.

"What's it all about, Master?" he asked.

"If I'm reading it correctly then you'll stay a slave and my property until you're eighteen and then you'll be free," Robert said, "I'd like Mr. Hamilton-Reilly to consider it first so don't get too excited."

At that moment the phone rang. Ray had just finished reading his mail as well.

"What on earth happened?" Ray exclaimed, "What's all this assistance business about. You've certainly got them on the run though and that's an opening offer. I think we can try for immediate freedom and compensation."

"Can we come in and see you this afternoon, please?" Robert said, "Charley's a little overwhelmed by it and we've still got to consider his circumstances when he's freed."

"Yes of course," Ray replied, "You know I've never heard of a case being dropped before the plaintiff even knew he had one. Mr. Witherspoon must think that you owe him one big favour. Unhelpful data or not he's really turned it round to your advantage."

"I'll tell you all about it this afternoon," Robert said, "In the meantime I can tell Charley that he's to be freed."

"Yes, I'm looking forward to seeing you both. I'll have champagne on ice. If you don't allow Charley to drink any then there'll be more for us."

Bravo had read the letter and was grinning from ear to ear while Charley seemed close to tears.

Robert led him to his armchair and sat him on his lap, sending the other slaves out of the room. Neither spoke for a time.

"I want to stay as your slave please, Robert," Charley sobbed, "I don't want things to change."

"I'm sixty and you're fifteen. How many years do you think it'll be before someone else has to run the place. It'll change then. That letter means you can be my successor. We'll see that it can happen even while you're a temporary slave. If everything goes well you'll be free and my steward if you wish or you could go to university and study science or something. You might even meet a nice young girl and get married."

They talked some more before Charley did his rounds making sure everything was going smoothly and Robert dealt with the rest of his mail and got on with other work until it was time to leave.

Once again Charley ran behind the rickshaw and obediently followed his master into Ray's office.

As promised, Ray had champagne waiting for them but Charley chose to stand against the wall at the present. Ray looked at Robert quizzically. Robert explained events at the YPS before discussing Charley's attitude.

"I gather he had a miserable childhood and I'm the first adult that he could respond to," Robert began, "You know him and I couldn't do a fraction of what I get done without him. He knows it so he knows that he's needed. We're close, almost friends and basically he's happy as things are and he doesn't want them to change.

"I'm happy as well but I know that things will change but if we're careful we'll let things change slowly. He'll accept full temporary enslavement with no exemption clauses. I'll have the same powers over him as I do now.

"At the same time I want to adopt him so that he becomes my legal heir. If I understand the law right if any thing happened to me the voluntary enslavement would annulled. Otherwise it is to be reviewed every year until he's eighteen. Part of the review is to decide whether he has the same dependence on me that he has now.

"Can we do it all?"

"Charley wants security and you want him to inherit," Ray said, "It's unusual but so is the whole situation. It's the regime that the YPS wants so I can't see any problems and the annual review can be done between yourselves.

"Come here Charley. Do you have any thoughts on what you want to do with your life?"

"Yes sir," Charley replied, "I want to go into politics and change the whole system. I don't want to get rid of it, only make it fairer and get rid of the abuses. I've got chances to find out how the whole system works and I'm beginning to think that people really do want it to happen."

"So you think that your experiences as a slave will be useful, do you?"

"Yes sir," Charley replied, "I like the Operatic Society and I'd like to become more involved. I haven't spoken to Master Robert yet but I'm beginning to wonder whether I could have singing lessons.

"There's a few other things I'd like to do and I'm beginning to realise that I'll get the chance but for now the most important thing is to run Master Robert's household for him."

"I'll see to it that you do," Ray said, "Now will you have a drink with me?"

It was more of a celebration than a business meeting and only ended when Charley wrapped his arms around Robert and murmured, I love you, Daddy before sliding down to the floor.

"Sorry about this, Robert," Ray said, a little concerned, "I shouldn't have encouraged him."

"Oh, don't worry," Robert laughed, "I've finally got him in a situation that he can't handle. We should go and heaven help him if doesn't act 100% sober when we leave."

"I'd hate to see him punished because I encouraged him to get drunk."

"He doesn't accept excuses from any of the others, so he won't offer any to me," Robert explained.

"I should just see him as the slave of a client," Ray said persisted, "I don't. I don't wish to offend you but without him you'd be just another owner toeing the party line and crushing your slaves including my son. Between you, you're giving Craig, Bravo if you insist, a chance. I'd not let anyone else get drunk in this office, not even if they're free citizens but in his case, I'm glad he's had a chance to let his hair down.

"If you permit, he can sleep it off on that couch while I draw up a draft of his papers then he can bring them home to you."

"I'm not offended because you're probably right," Robert said, "OK. He's yours for the afternoon. Send him home when you're ready."

Ray had no clients to see that afternoon but there were a number of secretaries and clerks were surprised to see a slave boy asleep on their bosses couch. Ray was grateful to both Robert and Charley for looking after his son so well and as thanks their business took priority over anything else. With Bravo acting as Robert's secretary he could find excuses to speak with his son often and Ray's staff understood how important his association was with Robert.

He did not deal with Charley very often but the stories about him were almost legend and most of his staff had heard of Charley too so it was not too surprising that the drafts were ready before everyone went home that night.

Waking Charley proved difficult. He was semi conscious and aware enough that he was being spoilt but not awake enough to accept time was up. In the end two of Ray's clerks took him down to the yard and threw buckets of water over him until he was fully awake.

Charley found himself with a splitting headache, wiping the excess water off him before being allowed back into Ray's office to stand at the present in front of Ray's desk.

"I hope you enjoyed this afternoon," Ray said to him, "Don't worry, count it as my treat and I'm not angry or about to complain to your master. You're back on duty though and I need you to take these papers to your Master. Try to smarten up because I think he's a little concerned at your behaviour even if I'm not."

Charley's mouth felt like sandpaper, it was so dry. He was beginning to remember his behaviour and had never felt so ashamed before in his life.

"I'm so sorry for the way I behaved, sir," he said, "I'll never drink again."

"You will," Ray laughed, "Probably not until you're completely free but you will. Now, get home with you and Good Luck in dealing with Robert."

The run home was an ordeal. He was desperate for a drink of water but did not dare take another liberty by asking. He knew he should hurry to deliver the papers as soon as possible but he wanted to go as slow as possible to delay facing Robert. He was dehydrated by the alcohol, ached and felt unsteady. It seemed as if everyone could see that he was drunk and was staring at him disapprovingly.

Robert simply took the papers from him, read them before saying, "Your behaviour was unacceptable. I did not appreciate being called Daddy in front of another citizen and I did not appreciate you passing out at my feet. As for telling Mr. Hamilton-Reilly's secretary that she worked for the cleverest boss in the world, it was simply inexcusable."

To Charley's further humiliation, Golf and Bravo were in the room and out of the corner of his eye he could see Bravo desperately trying to suppress a fit of giggles.

"This is one conversation, I don't mind being shared with the others," Robert snapped, "But for now you two just stand and behave yourselves.

He turned back to Charley.

"Twenty lashes of the whip, tonight," he snarled, "Now get out and sort yourself out. You look dreadful."

As Charley scuttled shamefacedly away Robert glanced at Bravo still trying not to laugh and dissolved into his own fits of laughter quickly followed by the two boys.

"Ray or I should have stopped him," Robert said, "But he was having fun and it was his celebration so I'm not that annoyed with him. I think he'll be secretly glad to prove that he can take a punishment as well as give it so the whipping isn't so bad.

Bravo nodded in agreement while Golf felt honoured to be included in his master's confidence.

Chapter 13

Charley stood facing the manacles waiting to be told to raise his arms so that they could be secured. Everyone seemed to be glad for him. Robert seemed to be as amused as he was angry and they all seemed to find Robert's description of his behaviour as extremely funny. Delta had looked up hangover cures on the Internet, concocted something that had made him violently sick which had added to everyone else's amusement but it had cleared his head and had, at least, made him feel better. It still left him feeling bitterly ashamed that he had let Robert down and glad that he was facing the wall not having to look at anyone.

Robert had been right. Although scared, he was almost looked forward to the coming pain. He was determined to accept without resentment or protest just to prove that he was still Robert's slave. He heard Robert arrive and meekly obeyed Bravo's order to raise his hands.

"You're the strongest one here, Alpha," Robert said, "You administer the punishment."

Charley groaned quietly to himself. When they had first arrived, Alpha would have held back in the hopes that Charley would go easy on him when roles were reversed. He had learnt a lot and Charley knew that he would throw every ounce of strength into the lashes.

Bravo had mentioned what Robert had said about Charley wanting to prove himself and understood so he did not rush. He picked up a whip and swung it. Charley heard it and tensed, the nerves in his back almost reaching out to detect what was happening. Alpha picked up a heavier whip and flicked that through the air. Charley heard the different sound and guessed that he was looking for the right implement.

Charley heard another whistle. Again it sounded different and he relaxed, just as the blow landed. The shock knocked some of the breath from his body and he gasped just as the pain exploded across his back. He was still struggling to regain his composure when the second blow landed across his arse cheeks. He recognised the sound now. Alpha was using a heavy leather strap split into three strips for some of its length. It was called a tawse and designed to inflict the maximum pain with the minimum damage as the splits allowed the stiff leather to mould to his body.

The next blow followed quickly across shoulder blades. He heard the swish, tensed for the blow and nothing happened. As he took in what had happened and relaxed so he heard the tawse just as it stuck his right thigh. Not knowing what would happen next broke his resolve and he screamed.

By the eighth stroke he was crying freely and by the fourteenth he just hung there, all resistance gone.

Alpha paused and looked at Robert.

"He's no weakling," Robert said, "It's just been one roller coaster of a day for him. If you think he's reached his limit then we'll stop."

Robert was talking to Charley more than Alpha and it worked. Not taking his full punishment would be one last humiliation. He straightened his legs so that they took his weight again. He lifted his head, standing as proudly as he could.

Alpha shrugged and struck again. He did not play any more games but administered the last blows in a steady, methodical manner carefully avoiding crossing any of the other welts.

"Echo. You've been studying First Aid," Robert said, "Take him up to the bedroom and see what you can do for him. He can stay there and wait for me."

Robert was secretly proud of Charley. He had always declared that the boy was his favourite and he knew that he chosen well. When Robert went to bed, Charley was still in pain but he still tried apologising for his behaviour.

"I knew that you were getting drunk," Robert replied, "I could have stopped you but it was your celebration. It was bad behaviour though and slaves are not allowed that luxury. Are you too upset with me to want me hold you?"

In answer Charley slid across the bed and was asleep in seconds as Robert's arms wrapped around him.

***

Meanwhile Robert's appointment to head the YPS inquiry was causing consternation in the Forrester family. Grandmother Bryson wanted another family get together and phoned Alpha's father. For once Mr. Forrester stood up to her and insisted that they should talk first. Annoyed at being argued with but guessing it might be important, she agreed.

"I'm going to lose the election," Mr. Forrester said bluntly, "We've got to start planning for the one after."

"What? Because of this jumped up little clerk," she exclaimed angrily, "Nonsense."

"How many of your Bridge group have asked you about his slave training methods or asked if you could persuade the Nicholson boy to train their slaves. I can't go to the golf club any more without someone asking. They know Morgan belongs to Smith and wonder whether I could introduce them."

Grandmother Bryson nodded, "I've had that as well. What of it?"

"There's a change in people's attitudes," Mr. Forrester explained, "They think that Punishment and Deterrence has gone too far. Smith didn't cause it but he brought it out into the open. It would also seem that there's a demand for properly trained servants."

Grandmother Bryson nodded again. She was listening and less hostile.

"So you're saying the Abolitionists are going to win?"

"No!" Mr. Forrester replied, "Slavery is a deterrence and does keep the crime rate down so abolition isn't very popular. What worries me is someone jumping on the reform bandwagon."

"You mean Allan Gregson and his slaves are still human nonsense."

"That's right," Mr. Forrester agreed, "It's all very humane sounding, he's got no real policies but he'll strike a chord with the voters."

"So what do we do?" she asked.

"First, we've got to dump Zak," Mr. Forrester replied, "He's getting more blatant and if anyone started looking into his turnover of slaves then we're done for. At least with the public mood as it is now."

"But what about the money he raises?"

"Half of it goes on kickbacks, family members take their cut and there's very little left for the campaign."

"Yes and I like my cut." Grandmother Bryson exclaimed, "Why should I give it up?"

"Because we're talking about a short term low yield profit against a long term high yield investment if I get elected."

Mrs Bryson nodded again. "I agree that he's getting harder to control so maybe you're right. What else?"

"We should change our platform to Discipline and Training. We can say that we're adding to it rather than dumping Parents In Control. How about, why shouldn't all citizens benefit from the slave system. Let's put a slave in every home."

"It needs work but I get the idea. I take it we go with reform as well?"

"Yes," Mr. Forrester agreed, "Every citizen has a right to be protected from abuses to the system."

"It sounds good." Grandmother Bryson said, "If Zak goes now, then the public will have forgotten about him by the next election. How do we do it?"

"I turn him in," Mr. Forrester said, "We've all let abuse go on all around us for far too long. I did not stop my son being justly enslaved and I'll not tolerate members of my own family flouting the law any longer. We'll start with reform this election and add the Discipline and Training at the next.

People will ask why you didn't do it sooner," Mrs Bryson said thoughtfully, "I'll get someone onto covering our tracks. You say that after you became aware of it you gathered evidence rather than make a wild accusation. I think we should pull out all the stops and go for this election as well. We'll time Zak's arrest to just after Gregson launches his manifesto then go in heavy on reform. It could work."

After Grandmother Tyson had left, Mr. Forrester sat down in his favourite chair. 'That's for you, Morgan,' he thought, 'No more kids terrified of Uncle Zak.'

***

Temporary/Voluntary enslavement was meant to be an extra tool for parents with difficult children. As with so many of the enslavement regulations, the committees were happy with the big idea but assumed that the detail would sort itself out. In this case no one had ever bothered to figure out how the schools with a mixture of slaves and free boys would cope.

Gerry Nicholson also attended the school which Spencer and Delta-B were going to and in view of his part time business, training slaves, he had been put in charge of the school's temporary slaves and it had worked out better than anyone had expected although Gerry had needed to establish his authority, first.

Before Gerry had taken over, the job had been given to some unsuspecting and unwilling teacher who had lined them up against a classroom wall while he read the paper. During every break and recess the boys were bored, restless and resentful which affected their general behaviour.

On Gerry's first duty period he gathered them around and showed them the cane and manacles he had brought with him.

"We're mixing with our mates from now on," he said, "There's one restriction. You must keep me in sight. That way we can claim that I'm supervising you. Disappear and you'll spend your breaks naked and in chains standing beside me at the display. Remember, if I can't handle you then you'll standing against that wall again."

There were seven boys ranging from twelve to eighteen and most of them understood what he was saying. The morning break went well but at the lunchtime recess one of the eighteen year olds, Tony immediately headed for a nearby shop with his friends.

It was a blatant challenge to Gerry's authority and he made no attempt to hide what he was doing. Gerry had no choice. He lined the other temporary slaves up against a wall at the present position and asked one of his friends to go after Tony telling him that privileges for all of them were suspended until he reported to Gerry.

Gerry's friend delivered the message and returned telling Gerry that he had been told to fuck off.

A few moments later the boy, sauntered up to Gerry, hands in his pocket whistling to himself.

"Strip," Gerry snapped.

"Didn't you get the message? Fuck off."

"OK, I will," Gerry said quietly, "I expect that the principal's expecting me by now anyway. Would you like him and your Master to fuck off as well?"

Tony lost his swagger and looked nervously around for support but found none. He was surrounded by the friends of the other slaves who had just lost their privileges. Gerry was waiting for his answer and he was trapped.

Reluctantly he began peeling off his clothes until he stood naked. One word described the youth, average. His stomach showed some muscle development softened by a thin layer of fat. His cock may have been a little on the large side but it could have been because he had been shaved smooth. He paled when Gerry swished the cane and told him to bend over and grab his ankles.

As a free citizen Gerry could discipline someone else's slave with up to ten strokes. He satisfied himself with six before telling Tony to lift his head so that he could slip the collar around his neck and manacles around his wrists before letting him straighten up. Tony could not lower his arms below chest height which did not matter as Gerry made him put his hands behind his head.

Sending him scuttling across to stand beside the rest of the temporary slaves, Gerry was surprised to discover that less than half the recess had gone. He dismissed the other slaves and looked at Tony. His face was screwed up with pain. He was desperately trying to avoid bursting into tears and had trouble standing still as the pain raged through his backside. It wasn't a severe beating and the welts would be gone in a day or so but it was sufficient to secure Gerry's control over the slaves.

Tony might have resented it more but he was still getting very little sympathy and he could only stand and watch as the other slaves were greeted by their friends. Even Gerry seemed to be popular for allowing the slaves more freedom.

He also gained considerable respect for the tough way that he dealt with Tony and most of his school mates knew that he had been trained by Robert so, when Delta-B and Spencer started school the fame or notoriety that Robert's household enjoyed, gave them a considerable amount of kudos, enhanced by being Gerry's friends.

During his stay Spencer had come to enjoy the friendship of the boys and to trust Robert so that he had become voluntarily enslaved on his twelfth birthday. Once Spencer accepted the temporary enslavement he had insisted on being called Hotel in line with the others slaves' names. He thoroughly enjoyed the companionship and like the others felt that Robert listened to him and took him seriously.

When Delta-B and Hotel started school it was obvious from the start that Hotel was going to be a star pupil which meant he was not going to disappear into the background.

Robert considered sending Charley to school once his status had been formally changed but decided against it. He would have lost a year's education, so along with his temporary enslavement would suffer the indignity of dropping a year behind his old friends. In Robert's household he had considerable respect. He had earned the respect of others so again it seemed unfair to put him in an environment where he would have no status at all.

Robert contented himself with correspondence courses and began a search for a private tutor who could deal with the unique set up.

***

So far, the YPS committee was taking up very little of his time. Yankee and X-ray had been settled in but Bravo and Foxtrot took care of them. Their ankles were manacled together by a heavy chain which in turn was attached to another chain connected to the floor by eye bolt. The permanency of their situation was emphasised by the fact that everything was welded instead of locked.

They wore electronic mutes and would have had their vocal chords cut if they had not been allocated for Robert's project. Their hands were free of permanent restraints because they were needed for work, however, Foxtrot would cuff their wrists behind their backs at night.

Foxtrot always looked contented in the mornings. No one doubted that he was getting all the cock he wanted though sometimes, running with the rickshaw was an effort after his night time sessions.

For the period around the start of school, Robert found himself in a sort of limbo. Things were happening around him but he was not directly involved. News of Zak's arrest left Alpha dumbfounded wondering what on earth was going on but again it did not involve them directly.

When Spencer had become voluntarily enslaved to Robert the Forrester family had braced themselves for an angry reaction that the 'jumped up clerk' had got control of another family member but Grandmother Bryson mentioned something about the Discipline and Training, that Mr. Smith applied, being good for him and that was that. She seemed equally unperturbed when it was announced that he would be on full view at the local school much to the relief of the school authorities.

Robert was vaguely aware of the increasing interest in his methods but he had no idea how he was shaping events. He had started off following the official guidelines which stressed that owners should treat the slightest transgression harshly and tolerate no excuse for failure.

The guidelines pointed out that slaves should be aware of basic household chores and so claiming ignorance was not acceptable. Robert had accepted this at face value and it had come close to disaster. With Charley's help his handling had turned into a tough regime that, while it tolerated no slackness gave the slaves a chance to develop and learn. They lived a harsh and Spartan life but it was fair and they kept their humanity while no one could argue that Robert was applying Punishment and Deterrence.

Robert's efforts to free Charley had given them all hope and Robert's home had a happy, relaxed atmosphere which impressed visitors.

However they all feared him slightly. Punishments were harsh and they feared disposal but as Echo put it once.

"I'd rather have a harsh whipping, that I can get through, because there's a reason for it, than have my back shredded for someone's fun."

With so much happening in the background, it was hardly surprising that when problems struck, they struck all at once. There was no real sign of trouble when Gerry arrived for a visit with Tony.

"Tony's got some problems," Gerry said, "I don't know if you can help but you may want to listen to him."

Tony had a brother, fourteen and a step brother, nine. His step dad spent a lot of what he earned on booze and some on his natural son. He owned a small garage not large enough for him to hire any employees. On paper, Tony's enslavement, had been to make him knuckle down and learn a trade as a mechanic. In practice he was used as unpaid staff.

A lot of Tony's resentment had been because he knew that he was being used and could do nothing about it. Now that he had finished school, he would have to be employed and his hours could not be classed as job training. Tony could not go to college without some family support and in any job he would only receive a trainee's wages which meant that he would not be able to move out without support.

The Father's best option would be to have Tony disposed of as wild and out of control and begin a similar training programme with his brother without having to help Tony.

On one level, Tony hated Gerry for the way he had been treated. Gerry had tried talking to him while overseeing him and had seemed sympathetic and there was no one else to turn to.

"It's my brother that I'm worried about," Tony said, "I've had a miserable five years and my life's probably finished. Now it's going to happen to him."

"Apart from reporting him under the Labour Protection Laws there's not much that I can do," Robert said, "Most people would say that you're very lucky to work in a garage that you could one day own."

"Andy, that's his natural son will get that," Tony said bitterly, "Mark and I won't."

"OK!" Robert said, "Mark's best bet is to apply for voluntary enslavement with someone he trusts. If Gerry recommends you then I'm willing to offer you a place to stay while you sort yourself out but without a formal agreement with your father then he stays in charge."

"Can't I be enslaved with someone?" Tony asked, "Just for a year or so."

"Yes you can," Robert replied, "But how do you support yourself after that year and employers aren't that fond of temporary slaves. They'd rather wait until you can manage without the extra supervision."

Tony looked crestfallen. "I'm stuffed, aren't I?"

"You could ask your step dad to make out a transfer of authority," Robert said, "You never know and there is one thing I can do if the worst happens. I can take your chip code and flag it. If you're enslaved I'll buy you myself."

At least Robert had taken him seriously. He still did not seem to have much of a future yet his suggestion for Mark made sense. He would have to talk to Mark first and get him safe. He reckoned that they would be all right until the start of the new school term but he did not have long.

Mark was having the same doubts as Tony, though being younger he had thought less about what to do about them. Andy was out with his Dad. Andy was not a bad lad, possibly a little spoilt and he trusted his Dad too much but he begged to go with his Dad on his bowling nights just to give Tony and Mark some time alone. Tony had been able to see Robert because the garage had been closed that afternoon so the step father could buy a new pair of bowling shoes.

That night Mark listened in wide eyed horror to Tony's fears.

"Can we trust this Mr. Smith?" Mark asked.

"Gerry was in the year below me," Tony answered, "I think I trust him and Mr. Smith's slaves looked well. He says we can visit and talk to his slaves if we want. You do that tomorrow and I'll meet you there after work."

"Mr. Smith won't like me hanging around all day," Mark said.

"According to Gerry, you won't bother him," Tony laughed, "His overseer will see to that."

"That doesn't sound good," Mark muttered, "He sounds tough."

"He's a year older than you and terrifies the YPS, according to Gerry," Tony said, still laughing. "Gerry's two years older than him and I swear that he straightened up every time the slave stared at him."

"That doesn't sound any better," Mark said, "I don't want all that discipline."

"That's the strange thing," Tony said, "It didn't feel bad there. I'd like to go back. They've got a slave called Alpha and he's about my age. He's a bit out of touch but we got into one hell of a row over football."

"They let a slave argue with you?" Mark queried, sounding amazed.

"Oh! He was respectful and stood at the display until I asked if he could relax but he didn't back down and said what he thought. It's weird there. Apparently they've got a slave who likes reading as much as you do."

In spite of his doubts Mark's curiosity was aroused and he did visit. He talked to Robert about his doubts and fears. When he was left to look around he got talking to Echo.

If there was a prize for being overlooked and forgotten Echo would win every time. He kept the house spotless and had become so efficient that his workload had dropped significantly over the months that he had been there. His one real love was reading and Robert indulged him. When his work was done he was allowed to lay on the lawn with a book.

Mark had joined him and had forgotten that he was talking to a slave. Robert was watching when Bravo called them all to their afternoon exercise period. He was sure that Echo was urging Mark to join in. Mark seemed reluctant but slipped off his shirt and followed Bravo's instructions.

Compared to the slaves, Mark was scrawny and under developed for his age but he tried to keep up and Bravo slowed the pace for him. As his confidence increased he said something to Bravo who nodded and Mark stripped off the rest of clothes and continued naked.

Robert noticed that he did not bother dressing but hurried off with the rest to get a shower.

When he and Echo settled down together again, Delta fetched him a juice. He asked Delta something but again Robert could not hear what it was and Mark refused the drink.

Robert sauntered out to the kitchen to ask Delta. Apparently Mark was uneasy drinking juice while his new friend was only allowed water if he went to the kitchen.

"Take out a jug of iced water and two glasses," Robert said, "Let Mark sort it out from there."

As cook in charge of the kitchen, Delta got the most treats. Robert did not mind providing he shared them with the others if he got the chance. He prepared a tray with jug and glasses but also added a carton juice near it's use by date together with a plate of biscuits and took it out.

Robert smiled quietly to himself. Delta took real pride in his duties and would never serve a guest with just water. He could justify going so much further than Robert had told him to by claiming that it would have to be thrown out soon and would be wasted.

Mark made no effort to get dressed and was content to stay until his brother arrived to collect him. Tony looked dishevelled and a bruise was developing on his cheek.

"Dad thought that I was being rude to customer," he said, "Because we closed early yesterday I was only just finishing off when he arrived to collect his car. I said that if he was in a hurry he could take the car but if he cared to wait I'd valet it for him.

"Dad hit me for telling the customer to wait."

"Didn't the customer say anything?" Mark asked.

"No! He was annoyed because the car wasn't ready. I warned Dad before he closed that the job had to be done on time and he punched me in the stomach for insolence. Now he's lost another customer."

"Could we invite Master Mark and Master Tony to stay the night," Charley asked, "It's nearly curfew. As it's Sunday tomorrow, Master Tony doesn't have to be at work and Delta can look at that bruise."

"We can't put you to all that trouble, sir," Tony exclaimed, "I'll be all right."

"It will be Echo who has the extra work," Robert grinned, "He's only a slave so it doesn't count, does it, Charley?"

"No, Master," Charley grinned, "Maybe he should be Master Mark's attendant as well."

Mark and Tony's stepfather did not care what they did providing Tony was at the garage when it was open.

The following day, to everyone's surprise, Andy arrived. He had phoned Mark, wondering where he was and found Robert's address on a scrap of paper.

"Mum's drunk already," he sobbed, "I wish Dad would treat her better. If she didn't have to look after me and Marky, she'd go and live with Aunt Emma."

Tony and Mark looked at each other. Mark excused himself to make a phone call. When he returned, he looked at Andy and asked, "How would you like to live with Aunt Emma and Mum."

"She's fun. I'd like it." Andy replied, "But what about you and Tony?"

"I'm thinking about voluntary enslavement with Mr. Smith as my Master," Mark replied, "He doesn't think reading's a waste of time. It only leaves Tony."

Tony grinned sheepishly.

"I'd like to be enslaved to Mr. Smith, too," he whispered shyly, "Gerry and I have talked about turning his slave training into a full time business, there's so much demand but he's got another year at school and then possibly college. If I did the same as he did, spend six weeks under Charley, then I'd understand how he works then I could go in with Gerry. Even if it didn't work out then I'd still have a pretty good job plan. The only problem is, where would I live when I left here?"

"Find out whether Gerry was serious or just daydreaming," Robert said, "If you're both serious come to me with a serious Business Proposal and I'll pass it on to my accountants. Earnings have to be part of the proposal otherwise you fall foul of the Labour Protection Laws. Let's see if we can come up with something viable and then we'll discuss me investing as a silent partner."

***

As with Spencer deciding to become enslaved to Robert and Charley's appeal against his conviction, nothing happened immediately and at times all three events were demanding his attention so he was intrigued and less alert than normal when the local radio station and asked if he would join the prospective candidates in a discussion on slavery.

It happened a couple of weeks after school had started, and about three weeks after Tony's step dad had gone storming home to deal with Tony's failure to be at work, only to discover it empty with wife, child and step sons gone.

"Good afternoon, listeners," David Lowe, the interviewer said, "Crime and punishment has become the top issue of the forthcoming election. More than ever the use of slavery in a modern civilised society is under scrutiny and so I'm delighted welcome the three main candidates who will explain their position on the subject and a member of the public who is making a name for himself as a slave owner with very radical ideas on their handling.

"First, I'd like to introduce James Bryson who's just announced his intention to stand. Mr. Bryson stands for the traditional approach and strongly believes in the deterrence value of slavery.

"Good Afternoon." James Bryson said.

"James Forrester is a more familiar name," David continued, "He's caused a bit of a stir lately by seeming to shift from the extreme pro slavery stance he used to take and his involvement in the arrest of his brother in law. It also seems that these two candidates are distantly related which makes their different policies all the more intriguing."

"Good Afternoon, listeners and to you David," Mr. Forrester said.

"Also more to the centre is Mr. Robert Smith. Robert has earned some notoriety over last few months by applying to have one of his slaves freed while introducing what many have called a far too soft approach to slave handling while others have congratulated him on bringing the concept of training and rehabilitation back on the scene.

"Er… Good Afternoon," Robert said, his nervousness evident.

"And finally we have Allan Gregson, well known for his abolitionist views."

Allan Gregson had his Good Afternoon and David proceeded to his first question.

"Mr. Forrester, with the legal enslavement of your son, Morgan, the voluntary enslavement of your nephew Spencer and the arrest of your brother in law Zak Bryson, how do you claim to stand for law and order?"

"Morgan was properly tried and convicted. I don't like it less than any other parent does in that situation but I support it. So far as Zak is concerned I feel bad that I didn't act sooner but I didn't know. Young Spencer was not involved in any criminal activity and had other reasons for wanting to break away from his family.

"Can you explain what they were?"

"You'd have to ask him but we're a practical, down to Earth family and Spencer is an artist. I think the conflict started from there."

"But surely it must hit your Parents In Control campaign?"

"Not at all," Mr. Forrester retorted, "Voluntary and Temporary enslavement are tools for responsible parents to use. It would be pointless to pretend that we knew how to handle Spencer's artistic temperament but we had taught him well enough to find the solution himself."

In spite of herself, Grandmother Bryson was impressed. She was less convinced by Mr. Forrester's strategy than she had let on and had brought in a distant cousin to take the conventional line as back up."

"Mr. Bryson. Does the family agree with Mr. Forrester's assessment."

"No it certainly does not," Mr. Bryson snapped out angrily, "Cousin Zak is being persecuted for a few administrative errors. The brats concerned were legally declared wild and out of control and were properly dealt with. So what if a couple were under twelve. What should he have done? Allowed them to grow up to threaten and menace innocent citizens?"

"And Parents In Charge?"

"It means just that," Mr. Bryson was still sounding as angry, "Spencer should not have been allowed to go running off because he was unhappy. There's too much interference in family life nowadays."

"We're not talking about family values," Mr. Gregson interrupted,"We're talking about a corrupt and abusive system which destroys countless young lives unnecessarily. Zak Bryson was a prime example and sending children to be killed in black brothels was murder."

"You're neutral, Mr. Smith," David Lowe said, "What's your view?"

"Both Morgan and Spencer are my slaves now," Robert laughed, "So I'm not sure if I'm neutral. I agree with Mr. Gregson that the system is corrupt. Anyone behaving the way that Zak Bryson has been accused of, should feel the full weight of the law. It's a betrayal of trust. And yes, the YPS needs reforming but we can't abolish slavery until we find a viable alternative and implement it. It would leave a vacuum where crime would flourish.

"It's rotten to the core and it must go," Mr. Gregson almost shouted.

"So what are you going to put in its place?" Robert asked.

"An assessment system that decides how best to treat them."

"I'm sure my slaves don't think that they're sick," Robert laughed.

They paused while the station played music then took a call from a listener.

"My husband died five years ago so I bought a slave to service me but he's so unwilling," the caller said, "It's true, slaves are useless at everything."

"If you take away a man's rights then you can't expect him to perform like one," Mr. Gregson said.

"Mr. Smith, What do you say?"

"The slave could be gay in which case it might be better to replace him," Robert said, "I'm not being entirely flippant. A lot of people choose a pair of shoes more carefully than they choose a slave but it's the word unwilling I don't like. If there's some reason that he's incapable then that's one thing but his duty is to please his Mistress and willingness doesn't come into it."

"Yes but you can't force a male slave to perform, can't he always hold back," Dave Lowe asked.

"Possibly," Robert replied, "Let's just assume that he's being disobedient for the moment. I would immediately fit a chastity device and only release it when I wanted action. For the first few times he would be tied spread-eagled to the bed, gagged, pillows under his hips to raise him up a bit and a vibrating butt plug to massage his prostate.

"The slave would have no control over events and I would use the sessions to see what pushed his buttons. Understand this about discovering what stimulates him not pleasuring him and you only use the techniques that you can enjoy as well.

"I might reward him by leaving the chastity off for longer and longer periods and easing up on the restraints so he can participate more.

"A lot depends on what his other duties are and my guess is an electric prod would make him more willing to carry them out more efficiently providing he's been properly shown how to do them."

Robert's suggestions had affected people in different ways as they imagined being involved in the regime that Robert had suggested. Dave sounded a little flustered as he welcomed the next caller.

"I bought a slave to cook and keep house," the caller said, "She's lazy, seems incapable of learning anything and if I tell her to put the cups away she'll do just that and leave the saucers. I'm wondering what Mr. Smith can suggest."

"We're supposed to be discussing the broad issues of slavery," Dave said, "I don't think we should deal with individual problems. Perhaps we can ask Mr. Smith back some other time to answer questions like this."

"I disagree," Mr. Forrester said, "Mr. Smith is heading up a committee on slave training. I think it would be invaluable to understand his methods."

Dave gave in and invited Robert to answer.

"Again it comes down to the slave's duty to serve. If you enter the kitchen and it's untidy then punish her and punish her hard. I assume she you've spelled out her duties so now it's her responsibility to carry them out. If she doesn't then punish her.

"I recommend the tawse as well as a prod. It inflicts the maximum pain with the minimum damage. Again you have to be careful to distinguish between what she genuinely doesn't know and what she can't be bothered to put into use. Make it clear that she can ask questions and be as patient as you can when she does ask but otherwise assume she does know."

"I was under the impression that you took a soft approach to slave handling." Dave said, "And your slaves were barely under control."

"Not at all," Robert retorted, "My slaves never forget what they are. I've trained them to do their duties to the best of their abilities and I encourage them to use their initiative but they're still obedient slaves."

"They're also rude and insulting," Mr. Bryson interrupted, "I've heard stories about their behaviour."

"My slaves are not allowed to keep secrets from me or lie to me," Robert replied, "They answer any question honestly and sometimes the truth can be a little uncomfortable. If you want your slaves to say what you want to hear then train them that way."

"I think Mr. Smith has made an important point about slave handling," Mr. Forrester said, "Each citizen has different needs. The slave has to be trained to fit in with those needs."

"And the best way of doing that is with the whip," Mr. Bryson interjected, "It's all they understand. However you dress it up you're giving them a soft option."

"We'll take one more call, a Mrs Rice then listen to some more music."

"Can you help me please?" the caller sobbed, "My sister can only walk a few steps without becoming breathless. She wants to stay in her own home but she can't look after it. I've got my job, family and home and I can't do it all. I've tried a slave but it didn't work out. How can I get a trained slave?"

"A volunteer working as a carer would be the better alternative," Mr. Gregson said, "I'm sure there are organisations out there."

"It's a family matter," Mr. Bryson said, "It's not right to involve anyone else."

"Mr Forrester. What do you say?" Dave asked.

"I'm not sure that this is the time for a political opinion," Mr. Forrester replied, "Mr. Smith is here as an expert. I'd like to know what he thinks."

"Mrs Rice sounds desperate," Robert replied, "I gave my slaves permission to listen in so if she's agreeable I'd like Alpha and Charley to meet her at her sisters. Alpha has experience in caring for the sick while Charley can accompany Mrs Rice to the slave market and help her find a suitable girl."

He paused.

"In this case, I think it would be more appropriate if my two slaves wear chastity devices."

"Well, Mrs Rice." Dave said, "What do you say to Mr. Smith's offer?"

"I don't know," Mrs Rice replied, "Surely slaves can't be trusted like that."

"Alpha's my son, Morgan," Mr. Forrester said, "And I've seen Charley in action. I'll vouch for them."

"Once we're off air I'll give you my phone number," Robert said, "You'll be speaking with my slave Bravo. See how you get on with him and then take it from there."

"Thank you so much," Mrs Rice began crying and the station quickly switched to some music."

If Robert had been worldly wise the he may have been more careful but he simply wanted to help someone in trouble.

The radio station realised something was happening when the number of hits to the show's website tripled. The site froze because all the hits wanted to hear Robert's advice on the treatment of the sex slave.

Once they switched back to the studio the hits dropped off but live on line streaming rocketed. The studio had an unfolding story and the audience was hooked and growing.

"We can confirm that Mrs Rice has accepted Mr. Smith's offer and that the slaves are awaiting transport. They live about thirty miles [50 km] apart so they need a carrier.

"Mr. Smith. Your slave Bravo seems to have arranged everything including their permits. Surely they need your signature."

As Dave spoke a messenger entered and gave Robert some papers.

"He's emailed copies to me here and the studio has kindly printed them out," Robert explained, "Now that I've signed them, would it would kindly scan them back in and forward them to the YPS Permits Office."

Even Mrs Bryson was interested. She was annoyed with her cousin many times removed. He had proved to be a light weight and had not sounded good at all. Her son in law had sounded confident, reasonable and ready to embrace new ideas. He even seemed electable at the forthcoming election. Even the fact that he was following Robert's lead did not seem weak. He had sounded thoughtful and speaking up for his son was brilliant. It would appeal to so many other parents.

She was annoyed that Robert had stolen the show but was mentally reviewing her slaves trying to decide who she was going to try his ideas on.

When the carrier arrived to pick them up, Alpha and Charley waited to be put in one of the cages.

The driver glared at them and grunted.

"You'd better sit up front," he said, "I've got the radio on so you can listen to your Master."

Chapter 14

When they got to Mrs Rice's sister, they found a small crowd waiting for them together with a TV crew. Uncertain what to do they tried walking up to the front door but the TV interviewer approached Charley.

"You must be Mr. Forrester's son, Morgan," he said.

"No sir," Charley said politely, "I'm Charley and this is Alpha. He was Morgan Forrester but not any more."

"My mistake. With the stories I've heard about you I expected you to be older. We'll still interview you though. Just a gut reaction. How do you feel about wearing those chastity devices in public?"

"I think it might be better than getting hard on TV, sir," Charley replied, "And I think that you should ask Master's permission before you ask me any more questions."

At that moment the door opened and Mrs Rice let them in. She looked flustered and upset uncertain what to do next.

"If you could show Alpha to the kitchen, Ma'am," Charley said, "He could make you a nice cup of tea while you tell me what needs to be done here."

"Thank you. I need to phone the studio and tell them that you've arrived."

She dialled the number and described the scene outside and how Alpha was making her tea. Her sister was in bed already tired by the unexpected upheaval. Suddenly she handed Charley the phone.

"Hello," he said nervously.

"It's me, Master Robert," the voice said, "Mr. Lowe wants to ask you some questions. You have permission to answer. Just be yourself. On second thoughts, it would be nice if you sounded like a slave for once but I suppose that's too much to ask for."

"I think it's too late, Master," Charley replied, "A TV reporter asked me what I thought about wearing a chastity device and I replied that it was possibly better than getting hard on TV. I also told him that he should ask your permission before asking me any more questions."

Dave Lowe came on line.

"So how do feel about wearing a chastity device in public? You're on radio so you don't have to worry about getting hard."

"I've accepted being naked since I was enslaved, sir," Charley replied, "Men and women have seen me so it doesn't bother me but I'm in a strange house, talking to two ladies. It's an unusual situation so I think I'm glad that I've got help controlling my body. It would be rude of me to get an erection, sir."

"So what qualities are you going to look for when you choose Mrs Rice's slave?"

"Well for a start, sir, it's not for me to choose the slave," Charley replied, "If Mrs Rice asks me a question I shall answer it. If asked, I would suggest the one that understands the best that it's only Mrs Rice who stands between her and disposal."

"So the slave should be scared of their owner?"

"Partly, yes sir."

"And are you scared of Mr. Smith?"

Charley realised that he had walked into a trap and had to be careful how he answered.

"Yes sir, I am a little," he answered, "I love him too and it's an honour to work for someone who does so much for the community."

"So what's happening now?" Dave asked.

"Mrs Rice is showing Alpha around and introducing him to her sister then we'll be leaving for the market."

"Thank you, Charley."

Back in the studio Mr. Bryson saw his chance.

"You see what I mean." Again he almost shouted, "He was rude, answered you back and the tone of voice was insolent and disrespectful. I'd have him muted for speaking to a free citizen like that before disposing of him."

"Oh come now," Mr. Forrester exclaimed, "He was confident and knew what he was talking about. Maybe he was a bit cheeky but I got the feeling that Mrs Rice's problems are going to be solved. I think I'd pity a slave if Charley discovered that he wasn't putting his Master first."

"So do I," Dave Lowe said forgetting he was supposed to obtain opinions not give them, "He certainly put me in my place."

The web site was still busy. There was overwhelming support for the way Robert had offered to support Mrs Rice and polls favoured Charley's attitude sixty five per cent for by thirty five per cent against. Of those against him at least half only objected to him referring to getting hard on air.

With Robert's permission they had sent a photographer to the market to take a picture of Charley. The photographer also took a close up of the chastity device and sent both back to the studio where they were added to the site. At fifteen Charley was a muscular, healthy youngster with smooth skin. He had a naturally cheerful looking face. Not knowing what else to do he had stood in the display position for the pictures and the sun had been just right. His muscles came from his harsh life, constant hard work rather than spurts of extreme work outs in the gym and he was well proportioned and had a natural look to him that produced a stunning picture.

Although the show should have finished an hour ago, interest shot up when the picture appeared. Curiosity about Mrs Rice's new slave remained high.

Allan Gregson quietly admitted defeat. He shook hands all round as he left, laughing about seeing them at the next election. James Bryson stalked off without a word. As a family, the Bryson's would crush anyone who opposed them, then forget about them but he took the show as a personal insult and was already plotting his revenge on Robert and his distant cousin, James Forrester.

Robert was asked to wait at the studio until Mrs Rice was done and he agreed. James Forrester was also asked to hang on. He readily agreed seeing his political prospects were being enhanced by supporting Robert.

In Grandmother Bryson's eyes, Robert had been promoted from 'jumped up clerk' to 'useful person to know' but even she had become interested in the unfolding story.

Eventually Mrs Rice arrived, greeting Robert and thanking him profusely. The phone in show was continuing and Mrs Rice gave her account of the day.

She had been amazed at how well Alpha and Charley had behaved. Despite what he had said on air he had handled the examinations. He questioned possibilities alone at first. The girls had no idea why they were being questioned by another slave. He handled their breasts and crotch as well and his questions seemed pointless, such as, what is the capital of India?"

He rejected some as being too aggressive or because they objected too strongly to his authority saying that they would be too much of a handful. Surprisingly he rejected the ones that meekly accepted it all and just answered his questions and accepted his handling. His reasoning was that they would lack the initiative to get on with things without supervision.

It was the middle group that he short listed. They resented his gropings but listened when he said it was for a reason just as they showed frustration at his apparently pointless questions but cooperated.

He questioned the short listed girls with Mrs Rice. He explained that the slave who was chosen would be housekeeping an invalid then told her to describe her duties. A couple had seemed hesitant and turned to Mrs Rice for help and he had rejected them. Another two had seemed to think that they would just sit the the patient's room and they were also rejected.

One had answered that she knew nothing about cooking but asked if the house had been looked after or whether she would have to thoroughly clean it. Charley's questions became more detailed and the slave girl kept her cool. Finally he told her, you know what's needed, if you're taken on you get busy without being told. It's what Mrs Rice and her sister needs and if you can't deliver you'll be disposed of.

The girl looked nervous, nodded and said, "I'll do my best, sir."

Another girl got to that stage describing how she had helped look after her ailing grandmother but she seemed less able to deal with his questioning.

"You could take them both on," Charley had suggested, "Put the first one in charge but make the second one the nurse. If Master agrees then Alpha can stay for a couple of days to get things started and perhaps you could teach them how to make some simple meals. You'll need a prod and a cane, Ma'am. I suggest that if they don't ask you how to do something then assume that they know how to do it. Punish them if the job isn't done properly."

"So what do you think of his ideas?" the interviewer asked.

"I think they'll work," she replied, "Alpha was marvellous. My sister loves him and I feel that she's in good hands. The girls had started to find their way around without being told so we're off to a good start."

Charley had come to the studio with Mrs Rice and reported to Robert.

"They want to interview you," Robert had said, "It's up to you and you can forget that you're a slave. You can act any way you like and say what you like."

"Do you think I should, Master," Charley asked, "That TV thing caused a bit of trouble."

"It's your decision," Robert answered, "If they don't like the answers then they shouldn't ask the question."

Charley agreed and he found himself taking Mrs Rice's place in the studio.

"So Charley," the interviewer said, "The most frequent comment against you is that you're not acting as if you're being punished and that you're no deterrent. What do you say to them."

"How many fifteen year old boys do you know that want to appear in public, naked or just wearing a chastity device, sir?"

"Good point. Are you saying that public humiliation is the punishment and we could abandon slavery?"

"No sir," Charley replied, "I've got used to being naked. It just makes my enslavement very obvious."

"You don't have to behave like a slave in here so you can call me Henry. Put your feet up on the table if you like."

"Thank you, sir," Charley said, "One day I might do that but I've said before that I'm proud of being Master Robert's slave. It's my choice to behave properly and not risk embarrassing him."

"So you like being a slave?"

"No! I don't, sir." Charley's voice was respectful but there was doubt how intensely he felt, "I hate it but if it has to be then I want Robert Smith as my Master."

"I suppose that one of the things you hate about being a slave is the lack of privacy?"

"Yes sir."

"So how do you feel about the idea that a good few women and a number of men are interested in what that chastity device is hiding?"

Charley blushed.

"It's lucky I chose to respect my Master, sir. I can't take it off without his permission."

Henry laughed.

"Fair enough," he said, "Here's the thing. After the show, we can get your Master's permission, remove it, fluff you up a bit and put a picture on our web site with your manhood on display without caring whether you like it or not."

"That's why I hate slavery, sir," Charley retorted, "Surely there's a deterrence value in this conversation? You know, describing what can happen to you."

"Another good point," Henry laughed with him, "But how would you feel about it?"

"I would never do it voluntarily but it could be a bit of a turn on, sir. You know, the idea that people are that interested in my cock is quite flattering."

"Ah! You're not supposed to use that word so early in the evening but I take your point."

"Sorry but you brought it up, sir," Charley giggled, "Unfortunately, I can't."

"I think we'd better change the subject," Henry said a little more seriously, "It must be difficult for a boy of your age to be controlled like that."

"Alpha is staying at Mrs Rice's sister's until the girls are settled in, sir," Charley said, "He'll be able to tell you what it's like to be in chastity for three days."

"We'll pause for some music and then take some calls," Henry said, "I should point out to new listeners that this evening's programme is an impromptu interview with slave Charley owned by Mr. Robert Smith. Are you willing to stay and answer some of the questions direct, Charley."

"If Master Robert doesn't need me, sir," Charley replied, "My first duty is to him."

Robert was enjoying the interview and proud of his slave. The first caller was less supportive.

"Everyone seems to forget that you were convicted of some crime," he said, "Maybe some show of remorse for your victim would be more appropriate than enjoying yourself with some smutty jokes."

"I broke a greenhouse window with a football, sir," Charley replied, "How remorseful should I feel about that after six months of slavery? Besides the victim and I are now friends."

"There must be more to it than that," the caller said and hung up.

"If you hate slavery so much, how come you've sent two girls to work for that family?" the next caller asked.

"They were already slaves, ma'am," Charley replied, "Mrs Rice seemed like a kind lady and I persuaded her to take two slaves instead of one. Mrs Rice's sister will get the best possible care and the girls are in a safe home. I wish I could have placed more but I could only do what was right for Mrs Rice."

Charley was a little upset by the question and Henry played some music while he recovered. The next caller came on line.

"You were enslaved because you can't be trusted as a free citizen, whatever you claim," he said, "I don't believe one word about your loving your Master. He's just a soft touch and you've got him wrapped around your little finger."

"I've got the scars to prove he's not a soft touch," Charley replied, a little angrily, "And I don't I think you should be insulting a free citizen like that especially when he's not here to answer you."

"If you were my slave you wouldn't dare speak to a citizen like that," the caller snapped, "I'd have you muted."

"Charley has permission to speak freely," Henry interjected, "I'll also ask you not to offer opinions on citizens in their absence."

"I don't have to. The slave's behaviour says it all and I still say it's claims of loving his Master is phony."

"It's your opinion, sir," Charley said, "I love him because he's fair, kind and honest not because he's soft."

"Kind, soft, it's all the same when you're dealing with slaves."

"You're wrong but I don't think you'd believe it even if I got sent to the worst kind of black brothel."

"It's where you belong. If only for your insolence tonight," the caller yelled angrily.

"I think it's time for some music to calm us all down," Henry said, looking worried as Charley slipped out the door. To Henry's relief he was back in his seat as the music ended.

"We have Slave Charley in the studio tonight," Henry said, "He's made a name for himself for the way handles his duties to his Master. Please understand, he has permission to speak freely and that his Master demands honesty from him above everything else. So Charley, are you able to carry on?"

"Yes sir. My Master does a lot of work for charities. I have nothing to give him but I want to do something so I'll spend a day under whatever sort of restraint and doing whatever tasks your listeners choose in exchange for donations to Master's charities. It'll be deterrence because it'll show what can happen to a slave. I do love him and I want to give him something that he doesn't already own."

"Judging by the response to our web site, I don't think many people agree with the last caller," Henry said, "You don't have to prove anything."

"I just asked him and he's agreed to let me have a day for myself," Charley replied, "I want to use the time to raise money for his charities. I'll do something different if you can suggest it."

"We have to stop there," Henry said, "I'd like to thank Mr. Smith for allowing us to talk to Charley and I have a feeling we'll be asking to talk to him again. In the meantime, how about taking Charley up on his challenge. How about suggesting a way for him to raise money for charity."

***

Although no one realised it at the time that day marked the end of the Judges panel that ran the YPS and it also marked the end of end of the Bryson's domination of the family.

Charley had turned slaves into individuals again and more people than ever before began questioning the official guidelines on slave handling. Supporting Charley and Alpha was not supporting crime or encouraging thugs to run wild and many people blamed the chaos in their own homes on the Panels advice.

At first the Brysons sneered at Mr. Forrester for failing to dominate the radio interview but by supporting Robert and Charley he gained a lot of respect. Once he declared that his manifesto would be based on reform he took a clear lead and the other contenders never came close.

The Forrester family saw how he had taken the initiative and saved the election for them. Other branches of the family saw it too and suddenly, they were listening to him. All the changes were slow but they could all be traced back to that day.

It also took time for Charley's case to be heard. Ray was confident that Charley would be freed from life slavery providing he took voluntary slavery until he was at least eighteen so Robert and Charley were alarmed when Ray phoned to say that Charley's parents were going to apply for custody on his release.

"I think James Bryson is behind it," Ray explained, "At least he's paying for a very expensive law firm. It's going to get messy. I'm going to need Charley's, or rather your instructions on how to proceed."

Luckily Ray wasn't in court and he was able to see them almost at once.

"I want to stay with Master Robert," Charley said vehemently, "They didn't want me before. Why should they want me now?"

"Was that a rhetorical question?" Ray asked.

"Huh?" Charley exclaimed then pulling himself together added, "I'm sorry sir. I didn't understand you."

"It doesn't matter. I suspect that there are two reasons for this application. James Bryson wants to get back at you and Charley's parents smell money in their famous son."

"I'm not famous, sir. I'm just a slave."

"It's four weeks since your broadcasts," Ray said, "And there's some pretty amazing statistics emerging. Disposals have dropped by a half. A survey was done on those who withdrew requests and all of them said it was because your methods were having an effect."

"Gerry said something similar when he visited," Robert said, "He's swamped by enquiries to sort out households. So you're saying that Charley's parents might want to do something similar."

"There's also sponsorship," Ray added, "Charley could endorse anything from whips to toilet cleaner. In your case you can rent him out, in his parents case he'd have to agree."

"Yes, but there's not that much interest, is there? Charley's been back to the local radio station a couple of times but it's not going to last, is it?"

"You only watch the serious news channels and read the 'worthy' papers," Ray grinned, "I'm a bit more low brow when I relax. Even the Agony Aunt columns are full of owner/slave problems. They never were before."

Robert stared at him.

"I've been looking at Gerry's business plan like you asked," Ray continued, "You might like to consider becoming an active partner and make Charley a fourth when he's free."

"That'll be up to Gerry and Tony," Robert said, "Let's wait and see."

In fact, Gerry was getting fed up with the business. He only carried on because, at times, the slaves seemed just as grateful as the owners for sorting them out but he wanted to become an engineer and had only produced the plan because he was undecided but when it came to committing himself he pulled out offering it all to Tony.

Tony thought about it but he did not feel confident enough to run it all on his own. He had been staying with Gerry but had been visiting Robert who was a little surprised when Tony failed to turn up the next morning and even more surprised when he got a phone call from Mrs Wright at the YPS.

"We've got an Anthony Cryer in custody. He was arrested for drunkenness and took a swing at the police officer. There's no argument over the facts so it's just a question of the level of enslavement. He gave your name as a Responsible Adult so I'm officially notifying you of events.

"Unofficially, if you'd like to represent the YPS and give your assessment of his character then we'll give your name to the court."

"Thanks," Robert replied, "What are my chances of buying him afterwards?"

"Oh, there's no reason why not unless the Court orders immediate disposal," Mrs Wright answered, "I've put a flag against his name. Any other action has got to be cleared by me. You need to be at the court by two o'clock."

Telling Charley and Bravo what had happened he had the rickshaw brought round while he got ready. He arrived early and got permission to see Tony. He was still dressed but had manacles around his ankles with his hands cuffed behind his back. He looked shamefacedly at Robert.

"I'm here representing the YPS," Robert said bluntly, "You're going to be enslaved for life. If the judge really wants to make an example of you then you could end up under maximum restraint like Zulu or disposed of. The best case is that you end up as an unrestrained slave, serving me."

"Yes sir, I'm sorry…" Tony began

"You don't have permission to talk," Brian interrupted, "Get used to it or you'll be punished if I get you home."

As Robert had described the possibilities, Tony had turned deathly white and had started trembling. He had brightened at the possibility at becoming Robert's slave but had been shocked by the emphasis that Robert had put on the word 'if'.

Robert had a little while to wait until the hearing and when he entered the court he saw Tony standing in front of the bench with the chain between his ankles padlocked to an eye bolt on the floor. Robert was shown to a desk to one side of him.

"Mr. Smith, you've been seconded to represent the YPS in just this case. Can you tell me why?"

"I'm known to the YPS and I also know this boy, Your Honour," Robert replied, "He named me as Responsible Adult and the YPS was kind enough to phone me."

"Which is a courtesy not normally extended to parents or guardians. Don't you agree?"

"I think that is so, Your Honour."

"We've received a letter instructing us to examine YPS activities more closely and this seems to be a typical example of YPS high-handedness. However I am aware that you are instrumental in getting us that extra discretion and I hope you can continue to get us the freedom to apply the law more wisely. You are welcome in my court."

The Judge glanced around the court.

"I've read the documents and seen the CCTV footage. Does anyone wish to challenge the facts of the case."

Robert had also been shown them but not even Tony was denying them.

"Very well," the Judge continued, "Mr. Smith, you're probably aware that enslavement is mandatory in this case. The only question, how much restraint he'll need to ensure that he is no longer any risk to society and is there sufficient deterrence in his sentencing. What is your opinion."

"Tony had already raised the question of Voluntary Enslavement to me," Robert began, "He felt it the best way of getting the sort of training he needed. If he is released onto the open market then I shall acquire him because I think he could make a significant contribution to my household."

"There would be very little deterrence in that plan though I accept your argument that the boy has some worth."

"Your Honour," Robert said, "For deterrence to work then it has to be seen. Disposing of him or putting him in a heavy restraint gang in a mine are not very visible. The policeman suffered a cut lip. Very well then, the boy should suffer a bloodied back from a public whipping. I wouldn't want him permanently scarred but we're organising volunteers to tidy up the front of the Town Hall. A weeks hard labour in public view would be very visible."

"Thank you, Mr. Smith," the Judge said before turning to Tony, "When reading this case before this hearing, I had decided that the only options for striking a police officer was life under maximum restraint or disposal.

Tony turned deathly white again, his terror only too obvious.

"However, I am persuaded by Mr. Smith that a public display of a severe punishment would have a useful deterrence value. I sentence Anthony Cryer to be enslaved for life and remanded into Mr. Smith's custody for one week. If Mr. Smith can provide a regime of Punishment and Deterrence over a period of one year then Mr. Smith may retain full legal rights over the slave. If such a regime cannot be implemented then I will order the slave to be disposed of.

"I am aware that Mr. Smith is a firm believer in rehabilitation. This court would not oppose an application for the boys release from enslavement providing that a suitable Punishment and Deterrence programme has been completed. This case is adjourned for one week."

Tony was still terrified as he was led away but Robert could do nothing about it because an usher was inviting to meet the Judge in his chambers.

"Are you recommending a wider range of punishment options for the Courts?" the Judge asked once they were settled.

"It's a bit outside my brief but it would make sense," Robert replied, "I think that temporary and voluntary enslavement is far more productive. I also think hard labour gangs at the weekends would be an idea. It would allow them to continue with school or work during the week."

"And you'd leave the final decisions up to the judge?"

"Definitely," Robert replied, "There's an old song about letting the punishment fit the crime. Only the judge has all the information and can decide what's appropriate."

"As in Cryer's case," the Judge said, "It wouldn't be fair to the policeman if you're too soft on him. How much hard labour can you arrange throughout the year?"

"Not much without invoking the Labour Protection Laws," Robert replied,

"The thing is, no matter what else is going on, we must support the police," the Judge said, "The drunkenness would have earned him a warning and possibly a caning because of the aggressiveness of his behaviour. May I make a suggestion?"

Robert nodded.

"How about 2,600 lashes to be administered a hundred at a time every second Saturday at the mall? Keep him unrestrained and he turns up alone. If he fails to arrive then he'll be found and disposed of. I'll allow a postponement on medical grounds but no other. I'll order that the whip be light enough for him to heal enough in the intervening fortnight but it should be heavy enough to draw blood."

"Would you consider the punishment complete if he was permanently scarred on say more than ten per cent of his body?"

"I'm not sure how you'd measure it," the Judge replied, "How about I'll review the sentence if the scars significantly devalue him. I've got to consider your position as owner."

"I'd better go see if he's in a fit state to come home with me," Robert said. "If he's not he'll have to stay here until I can arrange transport."

"From what I've heard you'll be in trouble with your overseer if he doesn't handle himself properly in public," the Judge laughed, "He's an impressive young man and a tribute to your slave handling."

Meanwhile Tony was standing miserably in a cage below the courts. He had been stripped, his body hair removed and he was still shackled as he had been in court except that he was also wearing a collar chained to the wall.

He had been too frightened to understand what the judge was saying and as he stood there waiting for Robert, he was becoming more and more convinced that he was going to die. He had been shocked by Robert's suggesting harsh punishment instead of speaking up for him and again, his terror had convinced him that Robert wanted nothing more to do with him.

Even the guards were a little worried about him and when Robert saw him, knew that he was in no fit state to run behind the rickshaw so he sent for Foxtrot who was waiting beside the rickshaw.

"I want you to stay with Tony," Robert commanded, "He's got one hell of an ordeal in front of him but if he can take it, he'll be freed in eighteen months. Try and keep him calm until the transport arrives to bring you both home."

"Yes Master," Foxtrot replied. He remembered his own terror of being shut up in one of the cages. From the moment he had been enslaved no one had bothered to tell him what was happening and like Tony the fear had almost paralysed him.

By the time he got home, Tony's mother and stepbrother were there waiting for news. He sent for all the slaves and explained everything in one go.

"He'll never survive a punishment like that," his mother sobbed, "How can you expect him to stroll into town for that as if he's just doing some shopping."

"He's got to, Mum," Mark exclaimed, "If he doesn't, he'll be dead anyway."

"Couldn't you have helped him?" Tony's mother demanded, "He was relying on you and you did nothing."

"Master Robert did do something," Bravo interjected angrily, "Tony would be on his way to a black brothel if it hadn't been for him. Tony struck a police officer. He's lucky to have this chance."

"I'm sorry," she cried, "I know that you've done your best. I just wish that we could do more."

Gerry was the most upset when he heard. He blamed himself for backing out of their business venture.

"It's not your fault," Robert said, "He should have realised that I would have still helped him. Maybe too much had happened and he was just trying to get it out of his system.

Tony was a lot calmer when he arrived the next day with Foxtrot. They had been put in a cage on their own and left alone. Robert was sure that Foxtrot had used the time to enjoy another cock inside him. Tony seemed to relax more when he realised he had hope of surviving his ordeal.

"You'll be working with Alpha in the garden so you'll be getting plenty of fresh air," Robert said, "Bravo will will sort out an exercise programme to help build you up. Delta will arrange a special diet for you and find medicines to help your back heal. The whole regime will focus on body growth to encourage you to heal."

"Yes sir, I mean Master," Tony replied, "I'm sorry for causing so much trouble."

"Just remember that you've run out of chances," Robert said, "I'll see if Foxtrot or one of the other younger boys can go with you and none of us will think badly of you if you act scared here. The moment you go outside the gates you're proving that you're willing to accept the consequences of your actions."

"Yes Master."

"Go and find Alpha," Robert turned to Charley as he left, "Keep him busy but if you see him talking to Alpha, or anyone else if it comes to that, leave them be."

The second hearing was held in the Judge's chambers with just Robert, the Judge and the Prosecutor present. The case was no longer anything to do with Tony. His Master made the decisions.

The first whipping was due two days later. The YPS Officer in charge of administering his punishment was warned that he had to pace himself so that Tony would receive the full punishment. The official understood that the real deterrence was in the length of the sentence and Tony should recover enough to be ready for the next session.

Tony slept well the night before. He had been kept busy and had crept into his hammock, exhausted. The following morning he awoke as usual to the alarm bells before they all piled out for their morning run. Delta always showered first now before hurrying off to start breakfast. That morning Tony and Hotel joined him and they hurried off to the kitchen. Delta had laid out the kitchen the night before and breakfast for the slaves consisted of a sort of stew of fruit, vegetables and puréed leftovers which was heating up while they took their run and showered. It was tasty and Delta saw that it was nutritious and on that morning Tony and Hotel sat down and ate first.

Hotel was going with Tony on his punishment trip. It was Charley's idea. Some people are born leaders and Tony most certainly was not one of them. He was easily led but also calm and steady when he knew what he had to do. He would have complemented Gerry's impulsive, decisive attitude by slowing Gerry up and making him think but the final decision would always have been with Gerry.

Hotel was used to ordering slaves around and Tony would listen to Hotel if he was tempted to run. Tony knew that the other slaves were doing their best to support him and he felt better for it.

Delta insisted that Tony sit and digest his meal before letting them them head off into town. They still arrived early and they were placed in a holding cage until the appointed town. Hotel took Tony to the whipping post with Tony's arm around his shoulder. Hotel was wincing slightly and it was only when Tony took a deep breath and raised his arms to be shackled that anyone realised that Tony had gripping Hotel's shoulder so slightly that his nails had dug in and he had drawn blood.

Tony did not try to be brave but screamed until the wind was beaten from his body. He whimpered quietly until his knees buckled. The doctor approached but Hotel got there first grabbed his cock and stroked it.

"Master reckons I have a nice arse," he said, "Get through this and I'm sure he'll let you use it."

The brief respite, the unexpected sense of pleasure amidst all the pain from his back and the promise of more pleasure to come revived him enough to allow him to stand. The watching crowd had been hostile at first thinking that Tony was getting off lightly but his bloodied back, arse and legs told them otherwise. He was accepting his punishment well, without begging so they clapped when he said gasped out, carry on, to the doctor's question. He straightened so that his legs supported him again and the whipping continued.

The audience clapped again when it was all over. When he was released he staggered over to Hotel and hugged him before letting the doctor examine him. The doctor was not there to treat him but to assess whether he would be fit in a fortnight's time for the next session. In spite of the damage inflicted he pronounced that Tony would be ready.

Tony walked stiffly and uncomfortably still whimpering from the pain in his back. Hotel had the idea that keeping Tony moving would be kinder than letting him cramp up after his strenuous writhing struggling at the whipping post and led him out of the market. People watched them go but did not try to stop them or help them.

Tony had his arm round Hotel's shoulder but this time he was relaxed and just allowed himself to be supported. They even managed to pick up to a gentle jog home where Delta immediately laid him on the kitchen floor to apply lotions to help his back. Delta had already decided that Tony needed a mattress as he would never be able to sleep in a hammock in that condition.

Robert would have been content for Tony to sleep on the concrete floor but for once Delta stood his ground, explaining that Tony needed to rest properly to help his recovery. Delta was lucky to escape punishment but Robert had just heard that Charley's case was coming up next week and was distracted by that.

Chapter 15

To Robert's surprise, both James Forrester and James Bryson were in the courthouse. Charley was too nervous to notice anything especially after a court usher had tried to take him to the holding pen. There had been a flurry of activity before he was told that he had permission to attend the hearing.

When they entered the court everyone took their seats except Charley who knelt down beside Robert with his hands behind his back. They all stood as the judge entered before taking their seats again.

"Although the appellant is Mr. Robert Smith, I should like to refer to the slave, Charley as the appellant," Judge Reynolds began, "If he has no objections I should like to refer Mr. Smith as a witness. It may make these proceedings clearer. Are there any objections?"

"Yes, Your Honour," a lawyer at another table said as stood up, "I represent the campaign seeking to keep slavery as a real deterrent. Slavery As Deterrence objects to the slave even being in court. It's proper place is in the holding pen and it certainly shouldn't have any sort of legal recognition."

"Thank you, Mr. Hogan," Judge Reynolds replied, "Mr. Hamilton-Reilly?"

"Looking at him, I don't think anyone doubts Charley's status," Ray responded, "I would submit that he's more of a deterrence up here in the public eye than down in the pens."

"I agree. Mr. Hogan, your submission comes later," Judge Reynolds said, "The primary task of this court is to consider slave Charley's appeal against conviction and sentencing. I'm hearing other secondary issues that may be relevant to his future but it was the boy that was convicted. I don't think that there's any problem with saying his appeal follows on from that."

The Judge paused, glancing at his papers.

"On the basis of the written submissions, I rule that the appellant was properly convicted. He did cause damage, the police were called and they followed the correct procedures. The conviction must stand."

Charley barely had time to feel disappointment before Judge Reynolds continued, "The appeal against his sentence is another matter. The opinions of the victim were ignored, as were his school reports. Sentencing was based on the opinions of his parents."

Judge Reynolds paused again.

"Mr. Bryson. I'm aware that you are representing 'Parents in Charge' and I'm not disputing the guidelines which requires a Judge to give most weight to the parents opinion. In this particular case, however, the opinions of the parents are wildly at variance with others who knew Charley, Angus Ferguson as he was then and even the police report acknowledges concern at the lack of specific examples of his bad behaviour.

"Further I am concerned at the Ferguson's refusal to consider temporary or voluntary enslavement. They could then have taken up the victim's offer to take him on and the boy could have stayed in contact with the family. I find no record of anyone ever discussing voluntary enslavement with him.

"I find that his original sentence was flawed and that it should be reassessed."

Charley looked at Ray, uncertain what was happening. Ray was frowning slightly but gave Charley the thumbs up sign. Reassured, Charley turned his attention back to the Judge.

"Stand up, please Charley," Judge Reynolds ordered then as as Charley assumed the display position added, "No, no, hands behind your back will be sufficient."

"For the record, would you consider voluntary enslavement and if so who would you nominate to train you."

"Master Robert, sir, I mean Your Honour," Charley replied without hesitation.

"Mister Bryson?" the Judge said.

"Thank you Your Honour," Mr. Bryson answered, "The parents submit that they were badly advised by their lawyer and were unaware of the options open to them. They feel that the appellant would be coming to the end of a period of temporary enslavement about now and would be returning home to them. They ask that you make the relevant order.

"They feel that Charley will now benefit from a settled home life and that considering the number of slaves that Mr. Smith has, the boy receives less attention than he needs."

"Mr. Smith," Judge Reynolds said, "How many slaves do you have."

"Three lifers under maximum restraint, seven ordinary lifers including Charley and four voluntary slaves. Can I add that Charley is my overseer and I see him more than any of the others."

"Mr. Hogan?" the Judge asked.

"Thank you Your Honour," Mr. Hogan replied, "As you know, the Appellant's slave has appeared on a number of radio and TV broadcasts. Our committee has been appalled at the insolence, lack of remorse and general inappropriate behaviour of the slave. We have complained to the YPS and now request that you declare him as wild and out of control."

"Charley. Having heard the options I have to consider is it still your choice to remain with Mr. Smith?"

"Yes Your Honour," Charley whispered. He was badly frightened by what was happening and it was beginning to show.

"Mr Hogan has submitted detailed transcripts of the shows that he's referring to. Is there anyone present, connected with this case, who has not had copies to read?"

No one spoke.

"Very well, we'll move on," Judge Reynolds continued, "Mr. Hogan, I believe that you are challenging Mr. Smith's fitness as an owner on a number of submissions. The next two concern a Mr. Joseph Lazenby and a Mr. Anthony Cryer.

"In the case of Mr. Lazenby you are alleging breach of the Labour Protection Laws. You have copies of the employer's statement and the result of the investigation. Do you still wish to proceed with this?"

"Our contention is that Mr. Smith has a contempt for society. By his very nature he encourages wild and uncontrolled behaviour and although he has not actually been caught there are an inordinate number of incidences which we maintain brings his fitness to own slaves into question."

"Now how is Mr. Cryer involved. I've read the report on the break up of his family but I fail to see how Mr. Smith can be blamed."

"Mr. Smith offered shelter to his stepsons Tony and Mark," Mr. Hogan replied, "Mr. Bryson representing Parents in Charge is as concerned as I am. Without Mr. Smith's intervention the family would still be together and Mr. Cryer's garage would still be open."

"According to the affidavits, Mr. Cryer was using his stepson Tony, who was a temporary slave at the time, as unpaid labour. Mr. Bryson, can you explain?"

"He was being given training, Your Honour," Mr. Bryson replied.

"So how does a trainee leaving have such an impact on a business?"

"Strictly speaking, Tony had just been released from enslavement and was there assisting his father, Your Honour."

"And how much did Tony receive in wages?" Judge Reynolds asked.

"We did not pry into a strictly family matter," Mr. Bryson replied.

"Well I'm prying into a possible breach of Labour Protection," Judge Reynolds snapped, "I think that I'd like to hear evidence from Tony Cryer. See that it's arranged please Mr. Bryson."

"He's voluntarily enslaved to Mr. Smith," Mr. Bryson explained, "It's up to him."

"Yes of course," Judge Reynolds sighed, "It's mentioned here somewhere. How quickly can he be brought to court, Mr. Smith?"

"As soon as I phone my secretary to arrange it, Your Honour," Mr. Smith replied.

"Ah yes. Another complaint concerning Labour Protection, Judge Reynolds, Let me see, there's Alpha selling vegetables and swindling sick people. We also have Delta contravening Health and Safety and a Spencer Bryson being molested as a pre-teen free citizen and enslaved without a permit. Could all five of them come in, just in case I need them? I'll adjourn for fifteen minutes while you arrange it."

When they all returned and were seated again, Judge Reynolds continued, "This is going to be a long day. Put another chair at the Appellants desk. Mr. Smith, if you allow it, the slave may sit.

"Mr. Smith. I agree that if an owner had committed as many breaches as these allegations suggest then his competency as a slave handler could certainly be questioned. On the other hand, if they're a smokescreen designed to malign him then they should be shown up for what they are. Either way I intend treating them very seriously.

"Having outlined the issues to be dealt with in this hearing, I'm wondering how to proceed in an a way that everyone can understand and without jumping from from submission to submission too much.

Would Mr. Ferguson stand up please. I'd like a word with you."

No one moved.

"Mr. Bryson, is Mr. Ferguson in court today?" Judge Reynolds asked.

"No, Your Honour. Mrs Ferguson is though."

For once, Charley forgot his training and turned to greet his mother. She looked at him and briefly smiled. Charley felt Robert's hand on his shoulder as he was tempted to rush over to her.

"Where is Mr. Ferguson?" Judge Reynolds asked.

"He has an important meeting," she replied, "What with the fuss over Angus' arrest and the trouble before, his business suffered terribly. Luckily I was able to reschedule my appointments."

"How very fortunate," the Judge retorted, "I'm sure your son is grateful that you could make the time. You've had invitations to see him during his enslavement. When did you see him last?"

"I'm afraid that we've not had much opportunity for anything but business. It's been a difficult time."

"I understand that," Judge Reynolds said, "But I'm talking about weekends and evenings."

"So am I," Mrs Ferguson answered, "Making contacts, meeting the right people, you have no idea how many dreary functions I've attended this summer."

"So when do you have time time to offer the settled home life you're offering?"

"I don't understand," she replied, "He'll be with his parents, What else?"

"How about offering the guidance and supervision he needs to stay out of trouble? How about quality time as a family?"

"I must object," Mr. Bryson interrupted, "How a family conducts its affairs is no one else's business."

"It's part of your submission so you've made it the court's business. Answer the questions please Mrs Ferguson."

"Angus is such a little celebrity nowadays," she replied, "I'm sure he'd love to come with us and meet people. He'll be quite an asset."

"I'm sure he will," Judge Reynolds said, "Slave Charley. Do you wish to change your mind and live with your parents."

"No Your Honour," Charley sobbed, distraught at his Mother's attitude.

"Very well," Judge Reynolds said, "I accept Mr. Bryson's argument a temporary six month training period was a more appropriate sentence and that it would be ending about now. I cannot end his sentence until he has been properly placed and I have yet to determine where that should be.

"I'm not convinced that his parents will offer the proper guidance he needs and I will not override slave Charley's preference for enslavement with Mr. Smith for now.

"Now as to the matter of him being wild and out of control. As a judge who frequently hears people swearing to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth, it seems a little hypocritical to complain when someone does just that. I've found no examples in any of the evidence submitted that he was running wild. I'm not convinced that he's easy to control but his Master values initiative and that is his right. To be wild and out control requires means that he has no regard for discipline or decent behaviour. That is certainly not true of Slave Charley. I therefore dismiss the application to have him so declared."

The judge paused and glanced at the time.

"We'll adjourn for lunch and hope that the slaves I've asked for have arrived when we sit this afternoon. Slave Charley is confined to this courtroom and its facilities. I've no objections to him eating or drinking at your table."

He paused and smiled, "There are strict about slave handling in the courts. If you'd prefer to go down to the cages then I'll release you."

"Thank you Your Honour," Charley smiled back, "I'll stay here, please."

"So how do you think its going?" Robert asked when they were alone.

"It's difficult to say," Ray replied, "He would have preferred it if you had gone with your parents. He would have stopped the case there and then. Now he's got to wade through all the allegations against Robert."

"I don't want to cause you trouble, Master," Charley said, "I'll tell the Judge that I've changed my mind."

"No. He's jumping around a lot but try to follow," Ray said, "He said something about a smokescreen and he's more or less got everything out into the open. It's going to be unpleasant but he's going to kill all these allegations once and for all and that will be good for Robert in the long run."

They did not talk much after that, just waiting quietly until the case resumed.

"Mr. Hogan. You have objections to lodge, I believe," Judge Reynolds said.

"Yes, Your Honour, You are concerning yourself with the wishes of the appellant's slave. They are irrelevant and of no concern to free citizens."

"If the appeal is successful then Slave Charley will be a free citizen and his views will then be relevant. It's something of a never ending loop because he can't be freed unless he can be placed into suitable care and technically, as you say, his views are irrelevant."

"Your Honour, there is no problem," Mr. Bryson said, "His parents have offered to take him back. That should be the end to it."

"Mrs Ferguson's comments in court today are at variance with what she was offering in your submission. It's a conflict I would have to deal with before allowing custody. Mr. Hogan, your second objection."

"Thank you Your Honour. I wish to strongly protest at not only allowing slaves to speak in this court but to allow them to give evidence."

"Let's go back to first year law school, Mr. Hogan," Judge Reynolds said, "This is a preliminary hearing. I'm not hearing evidence, I'm fact finding and determining just what is relevant to this case. I agree that a slave cannot give evidence but you will have time to investigate anything said in this court and challenge it in the trial. You will also know what information that I will be basing my decision on which you will also be able to challenge.

"Charley, would you like to bring in the slaves. They might appreciate a friendly face."

The slaves filed in and lined up against the wall in the display position. Charley hesitated then joined them."

"Bravo, step forward, please," Judge Reynolds ordered, "Describe your duties as secretary, please."

Bravo obeyed, mentioning everything from opening the mail to assisting with Robert's voluntary work, and YPS activities."

"What does your Master do for a living?" Judge Reynolds asked.

"Nothing, Your Honour. He's retired and lives off interest from his investments. He monitors his portfolio everyday but that's as far he goes so far as work is concerned."

"Your Honour," Mr. Hogan had risen to his feet, "We all know the fiddles that go with so called Voluntary Work. Can we introduce the question of expenses and stipends."

"Master Robert does not claim any. He counts expenses as part of his donation," Bravo responded, "He does receive a fee from the YPS for chairing their committee but he's declared slave involvement and contributions are made to Labour Funds."

"Mr. Hogan. Do you have a specific allegation to make?" Judge Reynolds asked.

"Yes, Your Honour. He manages a trust fund for a slave. He must do nicely out of that."

"You hope, Mr. Hogan," Judge Reynolds snapped, "I'm beginning to find your baseless insinuations verging on Contempt of the Court.

"Bravo, step back. Alpha, step forward. Mr. Smith manages a trust for you, doesn't he? Do you know anything about it."

"It's value has increased by a half, Your Honour," Alpha replied, "Master Robert takes nothing out of it, even when I asked him to help my cousin Spencer. He's paying for Spencer's expenses out of his own pocket."

"And you inherited the money after looking after a citizen dying of cancer. Was there an investigation into the circumstances?"

"Yes, Your Honour. The police were satisfied that I didn't know about the will until after he died and his neighbours still treat me kindly when they see me."

"How about the suggestion that you're running a market garden and selling vegetables?"

Alpha looked genuinely puzzled.

"I'm sorry, Your Honour," Alpha replied, "I don't know what you're talking about."

"Mr. Hogan?" Judge Reynolds said, "Perhaps you would help us out?"

"Certainly, Your Honour, seeing that the slave is too deceitful or too stupid," Mr. Hogan said. "Among other things, he was seen selling onions at the concert that Mr. Smith held."

"And the other things?" Judge Reynolds asked.

"I don't have a full list, Your Honour," Mr. Hogan spluttered nervously, "I'm sure there are some though."

"But no facts," Judge Reynolds exclaimed angrily. "I repeat, this is a fact finding exercise, not gossip-mongering. Alpha, Tell me about your farm shop."

Alpha looked scared.

"Please sir, I only gave the Mayor some onions that day and he made an extra donation to the fund raising. That's all. I promise."

"It's alright, boy," Judge Reynolds said gently, "It's not you who's ignoring my warning on Contempt Of Court.

"Alpha step back and Delta step forward. Were you checked out by Health and Safety Inspectors?"

"Yes, Your Honour," Delta replied confidently. "They thought that the kitchen was well run and hygienic. I did a course over the Internet and since then I've taken a test and got a certificate."

"A simple 'yes, Your Honour' would have done but you've answered the rest of my questions," Judge Reynolds smiled, "Mr. Hogan, you've run out of warnings so are there any hard facts you wish to present?

"No Your Honour."

"Delta step back. I think Spencer is called Hotel now. Either way step forward. You were eleven when you went to live with Mr. Smith. How were you treated?"

"I was a guest until I turned twelve, Your Honour."

"Any sex with Mr. Smith?"

Hotel blushed then grinned shyly, "Not with Mr. Smith."

"Who with then?"

"The slaves, Your Honour," Hotel answered.

"Did they force you in any way?"

"No Your Honour. They did not. I've always known how to handle slaves."

"So while you were a guest, you treated the slaves the way your parents had taught you," Judge Reynolds asked.

"It was Uncle Zak, more than anyone but I got to like Master Robert's ways better."

"Can you explain why?"

"I dunno really, It was happier, Your Honour. Delta tried making me a birthday cake. He'd never done it before and the icing set like concrete. Uncle Zak would have whipped him raw and fired him as cook so he would not have even volunteered to do it. Delta will be in trouble if he doesn't figure what he did wrong before he has to do another one but it was funny."

"Hard fact, Mr. Hogan?" Judges Reynolds asked.

Mr. Hogan shook his head, "No, Your Honour."

"Mr. Bryson, I'll allow a little discretion since there might be a little bit of family knowledge but I warn you. I will not tolerate pure unsubstantiated gossip."

"Your Honour, I would merely like to point out that Spencer was properly taught to handle slaves by his parents. They knew what was best for him and Mr. Smith has set out to undermine their authority. Indeed he has set out to undermine every parent's authority."

"I see that Mr. James Forrester is in the Public Gallery," Judge Reynolds said, "I'm not convinced that exposing a child to alternative ideas actually undermines a parents authority but if you wish to proceed with your arguments then I shall call him as Spencer's Guardian at the time of his enslavement."

"No, Your Honour. I've made my point."

"Such as it was," Judge Reynolds almost sneered. "We'll deal with the Slave Tony, next."

Tony was the least confident of all of them. He was still a little weak from his whipping though thanks to Delta ministrations he was healing well. He was only beginning to trust Robert's ways and not used to being expected to speak his mind. Anything less than unquestioning agreement would have earned him a beating from his stepfather.

"With this particular allegation the issue is whether Mr. Smith used his position to break up a family," Judge Reynolds said, "We all agree that Mr. Smith provided shelter to the Cryer children but Mr. Smith insists that the help offered was as a result of the break up and not not the cause.

"It's lucky that we have been able to separate a lot of gossip from facts by using slaves instead of having free citizens giving up their time to attend this court. Now slave Tony, how many times has your mother spoken with Mr. Smith?"

"I don't think that she has ever done so, Your Honour," Tony replied.

"How about your Father?"

"Dad hung up on him once when he phoned about Mark's voluntary enslavement. That's the only time I know about."

"Do you know know why your mother went to stay with her sister?"

"Aunt Emma has wanted Mum to leave dad for years. She believes their marriage was a mistake apart from Andy. She doesn't have the room to take us all, though. When Mark told her that he was going to be voluntarily enslaved and that I had somewhere to stay she phoned Mum and invited her to move in."

"So it was all done inside the family?" Judge Reynolds asked.

"Yes Your Honour."

"Does anyone have any facts to disprove that account?" Just Reynolds asked. He emphasised the word 'facts' and no one moved. "Very well, we will adjourn for fifteen minutes and then I will give my decision."

When the hearing reconvened Judge Reynolds allowed all the slaves to remain in the court.

"I'm aware of the methods that the YPS use to exercise their authority. My fellow judges and I are obliged to consider YPS reports even when we know that decisions were made based on innuendo and gossip. In this case, the YPS have not been represented which has exposed the extent to which other organisations seek to use the same methods.

"Had this been a formal hearing it would have taken a month to get through the witnesses needed to give evidence. The last slave to speak mentioned five people who would have to be called. Count the number of slaves, add the other evidence and you begin to see why.

"We have not heard evidence today but the accounts of events that we have heard today confirm the sworn affidavits already submitted. I'm basing my decision on those affidavits rather than today's accounts but it is the right of every interested party to submit evidence that this court has been misled. You have twenty eight days to serve Notice of Intent. The case will then have to go full trial.

"Added to my previous decisions, this morning, I rule that there is no evidence, indeed no hint that Mr. Smith has ever behaved incorrectly. As we have seen in this court his slaves are well behaved and under full control. Mr. Smith's age is proving no barrier to controlling so many slaves and I do not see why he would fail to control a teenage boy especially one with Slave Charley's qualities.

"My ruling is that Charley should continue in enslavement until his fate can be decided at the formal trial. However if no Notice of Intent is filed then his slavery should be terminated at the end of the period for service. This Court will support an application for Adoption should Mr. Smith decide to make it and in any case Slave Charley will have to show that he will be properly looked after, otherwise guardianship will revert to his parents.

"Finally. This court does not appreciate being part of an attempt to libel, slander and generally malign a free citizen of excellent character. If the legal channels open to interested parties continue to be abused in this way then I will not only consider Contempt of Court but I will also consider it malfeasance and pass the papers to the police.

"This court is adjourned."

As the court began to empty, the boy's curiosity got the better of them and they broke ranks to gather around Robert and Ray. For once it was Charley who was least able to contain his impatience.

"Please, Master," he begged, "I'm not being sent back to my parents, am I?"

"No!" Ray said, "I have to be a little cautious so I'd say its ninety per cent certain that you'll be adopted by Robert. From the Judge's point of view, there is a possibility that someone will file a Notice of Intent and present some hard facts. It's why he didn't free you today only to have you re-enslaved again later if something against you was proved.

"It's not such a bad thing because we can get busy with the adoption papers and have everything in hand, the moment you're freed. He's more or less ruled that Robert's application should take precedence over his parents. I'll certainly point out the effective way that Robert has handled you, and compare it to your parents apparent priorities as well as point out the discrepancies between their written affidavits and their performance in court."

"Do you think it'll go to a full hearing?" Robert asked.

Ray shook his head. "Not unless something completely new turns up in the next twenty eight days. Like I said, I'm duty bound to be a little cautious but I'm betting that Charley will be getting very drunk again in four weeks time and this time he really will be able to call Robert, Daddy."

Everyone laughed at the reference to his last escapade except for Charley who blushed at the memory.

"You seem to be saying that his parents would have to apply for Guardianship as well, sir," Tony said, "Aren't they his Guardians already?"

"No. It was all terminated with his enslavement so that there was no conflict with Robert's ownership. For once the rules are sensible and recognise that everyone has moved on. Without YPS involvement every application for guardianship will be treated on its merits though the Judges decisions do give some weight to Robert's application."

"But what about my temporary enslavement, sir?" Charley asked.

"It's not been ordered," Ray answered, "So far as the court is concerned you'll be free."

"What does mail fee sense mean, sir?" Delta asked.

Ray looked puzzled for a moment, "Oh! Malfeasance. It means unlawful abuse of authority. The Judge thought that Messrs Hogan and Bryson had abused their right to raise matters of public interest. I agree. They had nothing that would stand up in court and should have known it. They're used to the judge being more concerned with not indirectly criticising the YPS opinion. Mr. Bryson probably saw a platform for his political campaign rather than a court hearing."

While they had been talking, Mr. Forrester had approached them.

"I hope you don't mind me butting in," he said, "But I would just like to congratulate you all. I won't keep you. I'm sure you want to go and celebrate."

"I think we should leave the celebrations until Charley is free," Robert said, "As you say there's some room for doubt and I don't I want to get Charley's hopes up too far."

He looked at Charley.

"OK! I know that look. What do you say?"

"They were trying to get at us, Master," Charley said, "But we won today and smashed everything that they were trying to use. OK! They might try something new but don't you think that we'll beat that as well? I know that I do."

"So you want to celebrate today's victory, not your freedom?"

"Yes Master. The Judge ruled that you had done nothing wrong. I think that's worth celebrating."

"So what do you want to do?"

"Delta been dying to try out that new beef recipe, Master," Charley said, "Could you invite these gentlemen to dinner then afterwards we could have our own party in Zulu's shed like we did before and maybe you could turn off the morning bell again."

Robert looked at Ray and James Forrester.

"How about it?" he asked, "I'd certainly enjoy your company tonight."

"I'd love to," Ray replied, "I don't know if you'd allow a buffet or a carvery type meal so that all the boys can join us. I'd love the chance to talk to Bravo."

James nodded in agreement, thinking of Alpha and Hotel.

"Could I invite Mr. Brown, Master?" Charley asked, "And maybe Tony could invite his Mother and stepbrother."

"Maybe you should ask Delta what he can do at such short notice," Robert answered.

Everyone turned to Delta who blushed at being at the centre of attention.

"I don't think that there's time to do anything fancy, Master," he replied, "It's a pity that we don't have a barbecue but I could grill stuff, do a salad and if you could get some rolls and some other bits and pieces I could do something informal. May I phone Delta-B and get him started, please Master?"

Ray had been looking around.

"Before we do anything, I suggest we get out of here," he said, "There's a crowd of reporters outside so I'll make a brief statement and then we'll head for my office."

The statement simply said that Charley was overwhelmed by events and could not speak at the moment while Robert would wait for the matter to be completely settled before speaking publicly.

The party was a great success. They ended up with over twenty guests and Delta managed to feed them all.

The following day, Charley was asked to do an interview for the local radio. He was still quite the celebrity and everyone had been interested in the court case.

Henry Howard was the interviewer again.

"So what are your plans now?" he asked.

"Things can still go wrong so I'm not planning to do too much, sir," Charley replied, "I'm thinking about that fund raising event we were talking about last time. I'd still like to do that and as a free boy I wouldn't come under the Labour Protection Laws. How about sponsoring me for so many hours under full restraint and doing hard labour tidying up the town park. Maybe listeners would care to sponsor me at so much an hour."

"How many hours do you plan on doing?" Henry asked.

"Eight, sir but if the interest's there I'll do twelve."

"There you are then listeners," Henry said, "We'll circulate sponsor forms and let's see much we can raise. But, Charley, I was really asking what are your long term hopes?"

"I intend applying for Voluntary Enslavement until I'm twenty four, sir," Charley replied, "It's been a difficult time and I don't want any more changes for now."

"Wouldn't you rather be free?" Henry asked.

"I'm not sure what that means, sir," Charley replied, "If I was a free boy then I'd have to go to school. You're not allowed to have opinions there and I don't think anyone can get through a term without at least one beating."

"OK! I think listeners will want to comment on that but what about the privilege of wearing clothes or meeting friends?"

"Name any teenager who's allowed out without having to ask for permission, sir," Charley answered, "The only thing I really miss is wearing clothes but on the few times I've been out, I've seen kids being strip searched.

"You're making it sound as if all children are virtually slaves," Henry remarked.

"I don't mean to but I'm lucky to have a good Master, sir. I've got friends in the other slaves and I think I have other freedoms."

"Such as?"

"Coming here, talking to you and talking to your listeners, sir. How many other owners, parents or teachers would tell me to be honest rather than be polite and not offend anyone?"

"I think we all enjoy having you here," Henry said, "But that doesn't apply to every slave does it?"

"No sir," Charley replied, "I know I'm lucky which is why I don't want anything to change at the moment and I repeat, I know I'm lucky to have such a good Master."

"So don't you think your victory in court yesterday was a waste of time and money?" Henry asked.

"No" Of course I don't," Charley exclaimed, "I'm sorry I don't mean to be rude, sir, but you must see the difference in a lifetime without hope and being able to choose to serve a good man as well as knowing that when I become a legally recognised adult I'll be able to develop his work further and do a lot of the things I want to do."

"So are you annoyed that you have to wait a while longer before it's all settled?"

"Like Mr. Hamilton-Reilly said yesterday, it's all a bit emotional and I don't want to talk about it yet. I'm not sure that I'm allowed to."

"Fair enough," Henry said, "Let's hear some music before we take some calls."

***

Back home, Robert listened to the broadcast while sitting naked on the patio. Hotel was on his lap facing him and impaled on his cock. The others were all gathered round enjoying a brief break from the routine. Golf was similarly impaled on Bravo's cock while Delta and Delta-B were lying in a sixty nine position but just resting their heads on each other's thighs. Alpha, Echo, Foxtrot, Tony and Mark were just sitting fondling one another.

As he looked at the scene, Robert knew that he was not going to retire for a long time yet. He was proud of Charley and agreed that between them, they could achieve a lot. He felt as if he had unleashed a monster by giving the boys responsibility and his trust.

Still, he was enjoying life as never before and he was relishing the challenges ahead. Alpha and Echo were the next to be considered for freedom. The Operatic Society wanted a Winter concert in the Town Hall instead of rushing a late in the season show in his garden but they were talking about that for next year. The YPS Committee had changed and was now concentrating on producing a training manual.

At home, his naming system was in chaos and would have to be sorted. X-ray was never going to settle down was probably going to be disposed of and he was still uneasy about Mr. Forrester's friendship. He also had to keep track of Tony's punishment.

For now he was content, enjoying his slaves in the warmth of an early autumn afternoon, listening to Charley on the radio.

The End