AUTHOR'S NOTE: This story contains mature content, including but not limited to: alcohol use, violence, domestic abuse, and underage sex. You have been warned. This particular story is also serving as a means to sharpen my writing skills so there may be elements from time to time that don't hold continuity. I will do my best to limit such situations. It is my goal to write out the story and then go back to tidy everything up into a novella or novel. Comments or suggestions are always welcome!

'Today is my first official day of work, and some people might be wondering how I feel right now. I'll tell you: I feel great.' Ben tapped the sentence out on his laptop's keyboard as Michael navigated through the first wave of morning commuters trickling into the city center. The computer rested atop Michael's tail, but rather than remove the tail from his lap, Benjamin kept it nestled comfortably right where its weight and warmth could be appreciated.

Ben wanted to make a splash today. He was smartly dressed in a black suit, white shirt, and blue tie, topped off by a black-dyed newsboy cap. As a wolf hybrid, his feet remained bare, as digitigrade "shoes" were intensely uncomfortable. Unlike with most wolves, his canine toes wiggled as he typed. 'I suppose I should feel nervous about being in charge of a whole division employing six thousand people, but I'm not. I'm ready for this; I've been preparing my whole life for today, so why should I be nervous?

'As for Michael, I bet that none of you can guess what I have of Michael's...in my lap. Give up? I've got Michael's tail. What? What did you think I was going to say? You pervs. That wonderful, luxurious, muscled otter tail of his. You'd be surprised at how relaxing it is to hold it and pet it and generally tease its owner without mercy. Everyone should get a chance to see how fun having an otterfox to play with can be.

'Speaking of Michael, I'm surprised that I can still smell him today. Usually, he washes so much of his scent off that I can barely tell he's even there. Right now, though, I'm catching bits and pieces of him. Maybe I've gotten more sensitive since we've been so close this past week? Maybe it's because all of the car windows are rolled up? Or maybe he's finally listened to me and stopped scrubbing so damned much.' An unbidden smile crept across his muzzle at that thought. 'I hope it's that last one. I could stand to be around his scent a lot more. Not only is it deeply comforting, it makes lifting my tail for him that much easier.' He playfully stuck his tongue out at Michael. 'As if the man of all my wet dreams needed the help.'

Michael shot the husky a quizzical look. "What was that for? And do you have to have my tail under your laptop while you're working?"

"Nothing at all and..." Benjamin whimpered in bliss from the unexpected movement of Michael's tail against his nethers. "...definitely a yes."

One of the otterfox's eyebrows arched. "You're a rather strange husky, you know that? What are you working on there, anyway?"

"My memoirs."

"Ah."

'I apologize for talking about Michael so much. He's such a big part of my life now that it's difficult to not write about him.

'In not-so-good news, we're running late. I was supposed to meet with the current division head, Hans Weibenhurst, this morning. Said lateness was partially...okay, mostly my fault. Fortunately, the director was quite understanding when I messaged, so I'll be meeting with him after introductions to the current executive board have been completed. I'm very much looking forward to meeting Hans, actually. There are questions about his division policies that I need answered.

'I've often thought about this day. It's been coming for a long time, and I wonder how it will turn out. I must be the youngest executive ever; that's sure to turn a lot of heads. I'm expecting some resistance from the other executives. They were brought up in the old ways, so overcoming their prejudice for young people like me might be difficult. Fortunately there's at least one thing working in my favor: all but one of them are from the local province. From what I've heard, Endra is supposed to be more...open-minded. I hope that's right.' He frowned briefly at the computer screen before his paws came to life again, tapping the keys with determination. 'But that's not the right mindset. Michael said once that a man shapes what is. I've tried to live by that, tried to be like him as much as I can. I am capable. I am an adult. I will overcome their objections, one way or another.'

The light of dawn outside was replaced by sudden, artificial illumination as the car sunk below street level. Benjamin tapped a pair of keys to save and encrypt the file as they rolled down the parking garage ramp.

The encryption progress screen's bright glow caught Michael's attention. "Do you write about us?"

Ben nodded. "I do."

"At least you have the good sense to protect your work."

Benjamin closed the laptop and slid the computer into his briefcase below stacks of papers and folders, then snapped the clasps shut. "I am trying to be more careful." He lifted the tail from his lap, squeezing on it to punctuate his words. "In fact, no matter how hard you try, no matter how hard you make it for me today, I'm not going to give into your charms once while we're at work. So if you're expecting to get pounced, too bad."

The otterfox squirmed as twinges of pleasure shot up his thick tail. "Uh...mmmmph... What are you doing right now, then?"

"This doesn't count; I'm working the kinks out of your tail. Least I could do after you stayed still so nicely."

By the time the car stopped in the V.I.P. lot, Michael's whole backside felt like it'd been soaked in warm maple syrup. That thought made Michael smile. Otter fur soaked in syrup took forever to clean up. He'd barely turned off the ignition when Benjamin's door popped open. The young husky was already out, briefcase in tow, to greet a big brown bear that had just stepped out of the elevator lobby doors.

Benjamin trotted over, all smiles and tail wags. "Beaufont!" He extended a paw. "It's good to see you again."

The bruin had been in mid-yawn which now stretched into a smile. "Mister Roth! Please excuse me; I just got off. Good morning!"

Ben shook the bear's paw heartily. "Not to worry, and thank you. A quiet night, I trust?"

"Yes, thankfully."

"Good, good."

"You both just getting in, then?"

Michael came over to shake Beaufont's paw as well. "Yes. Big day today."

"I'll bet." He took a step back to open the doors into the lobby for them, guiding the pair inside with a massive arm. "Come! I don't want to be rude, so let me introduce you to Wes, at least." He winked at Benjamin. "I want to get a good look at his face."

"So you haven't told anybody about me; good! Think he'll be surprised?"

The bruin chuckled. "Mr. Roth, you're going to be a surprise to everybody."

The security station was manned that morning by a tall, well-built jackal. His Roth International security guard uniform was neatly pressed, his shoes shined, and he had a pair of thin, wire-rimmed reading glasses balanced on the end of his muzzle. He was jotting down notes on a clipboard and not really paying attention to the events around him. He barely had time to look up before the inner doors were swept open by the large security bear.

The jackal looked at the off-duty security guard over the top of his glasses. "Beaufont, I thought you were heading home."

"I am, but I wanted you to meet a couple of friends of mine that just arrived." He came around the podium and put a shaggy arm around the startled jackal before the canine could react. He held out a paw. "Wes, may I present Benjamin Bartholomew Roth the Third and Michael Saukkokettu. Benjamin here is the new Director."

The young gray husky handed over his ID card with a smile. "At your service."

Wes took the card as his eyebrows pinched together. "Who... What? You've gotta be..." Upon examining the plastic rectangle, his consternation turned to shock. He snapped ramrod straight. "Sir!"

The big brown bear rumbled with laughter.

Michael held out his Roth International ID card for inspection as well.

Benjamin grinned. "Expecting someone taller?"

"You could say that. I'll be damned. Err, sorry sirs. Mr. Roth, Mr. Saukkokettu, a pleasure to meet you both. I'm sorry for doubting my comrade here, but at times he's something of a comedian." Wes handed the cards back as he grumbled at the still-chuckling ursine. "Case in point: he didn't even warn me to expect VIP's."

Beaufont wiped tears from his eyes. "Oh yes. They took me by surprise too, so I figured, why not share?"

The husky laughed. "I apologize if we startled you. Don't be too hard on Beaufont, I asked him to keep my arrival a secret for just a bit."

"Whatever for?"

Ben looked up at the jackal. "It wouldn't be productive for people to make a fuss over me before I arrived, would it?"

Wes pocketed his glasses. "I suppose I see your point. Well, Mr. Saukkokettu's reputation precedes him, even out here in the boonies. If you have his confidence, and he hasn't blocked your appointment, who am I to argue?"

Michael smiled. "Flattery, Wes, flattery. We'd love to stay and chat, but I must remind Mr. Roth that we've got a meeting in a few minutes."

Wes pushed a button on the podium and one of the six sets of elevator doors opened. "My apologies, sir. I'm sorry to have inconvenienced you. Please, go on up, and welcome to Endra."

Benjamin chuckled. "Quite alright, and thank you."

When the elevator doors had closed on the two VIPs, the jackal grumbled at Beaufont. "This is repayment for that jockstrap incident, isn't it?"

The bear just laughed.

Inside the elevator, Benjamin looked up to Michael. "That went rather well, wouldn't you say?"

The otterfox thumbed the button for the top floor. "Yeah." He took a half-step back so he would be to the left and slightly behind Benjamin, then clasped his paws behind his back. "However you should remember that people like those two are used to change. Those higher up in the company find it more difficult overcoming their preconceived notions."

"I know. I've been to the benefits and parties that Dad and Mom throw."

"Just so you realize that."

Benjamin's brow wrinkled in thought. "Are you sure that all of the Division Eight executives are going to be here?"

Michael absently watched the digital numbers sliding by on the elevator's display. "All of them know how important it is to attend this morning, and none had any schedule conflicts. So, as far as I know, yes."

When the doors opened again they were one floor higher than on their previous visit. Even though Endra was too far off from the Imperial Heartland to get many visits from dignitaries, the executive level was still designed to impress. Tall, white marble walls curved around either side of the elevator banks, interrupted only by corridors at the cardinal directions, and were capped by a large white dome in the ceiling overhead. White fluorescent lights concealed around its base lit the inner walls of the dome, as did an ornate crystal chandelier, which hung from an equally-ornate golden chain high above a circular white marble receptionist's desk, perched on a matching marble dais. Elegant post-modern furniture was neatly arrayed around the central desk. Each chair or couch was the same ivory white of the walls, their clean straight lines enhanced with stainless steel accents. Unyielding, graceful, richly appointed enough to be at home in the Imperial Palace; and despite their cubic nature, were comfortably cushioned. Chairs, couches and two coffee tables set with neatly arranged spreads of magazines were arrayed around the central desk. Jan Roth's influence could be seen here as well; small alcoves in the lobby walls housed exotic plants, while next to the elevators themselves sat several small palm trees. Underpaw was a thickly piled carpet as a special consideration to those who couldn't wear shoes, and Benjamin couldn't help but scrunch his bare toe pads in it.

They headed towards the receptionist, a beagle who was readying her workspace and computer for the day.

She addressed Michael. "Hello, sir, can I help you?"

To her surprise it was Benjamin who replied. "Yes, thank you, ma'am. Benjamin Bartholomew Roth the Third, newly appointed director for Division Eight. I'm scheduled to meet with the department heads this morning, and I need to know if all of them have made it in."

She laughed. "The new director? Is this some kind of prank?"

Benjamin shook his head. "Not in the least."

The beagle frowned at the vigilant bodyguard, an odd hybrid of fox and...something, who stood behind Benjamin. "Sir, we do not allow..." Then her blood ran cold, recognizing the otterfox for who he was. "S-Sir, Mr. Saukkokettu."

Michael gave a slight nod to the woman. "If you could answer the director's question, ma'am?"

She straightened her blouse. "I-- Excuse me, Mr. Roth. Yes, the department representatives have all arrived."

Benjamin's tail wagged once. "Excellent! Can you point me towards the boardroom, then?"

"Take the north corridor. When it ends, turn right. It will be the last set of doors on the left."

He gave her a cordial bow of the head. "Thank you, Miss...?"

"Debra Hanson."

"Thank you, Miss Hanson. Please excuse Mr. Saukkokettu; we're running a bit late is all. He doesn't bite. Usually."

The beginnings of a smile caused the corners of her muzzle to tic upwards. "You're welcome, Mr. Roth. Would you like me to show you the way?"

"No, thank you. I'm sure we'll be able to get there without any trouble."

"In that case, if there's anything you need while you're here just dial one on any phone on this floor. That will put you through to me straightaway."

Ben leaned towards the secretary. "Actually, now that you mention it, there's one favor I'd like to ask, Miss. Hanson."

"Yes, Mr. Roth?"

"Please let them know that I'm on my way, but don't give them any details."

Bafflement passed over Debra's face for a moment, but she nodded regardless.

Ben turned to leave, followed by Michael. "Thank you."

No less expense had been spared on the decor of the halls than in the lobby. Instead of smooth white stone, the walls here were paneled in rare, finely crafted mahogany, polished to a high sheen. Every office door was heavy oak, studded with bright brass doorknobs and marked with thick brass nameplates engraved with the occupants' names. Coming to the building's perimeter hallway they turned right towards the executive conference room.

They stopped at a set of magnificent double doors, beyond which they could hear the soft murmur of voices. Benjamin laid a paw on one of the knobs and hesitated a moment.

Michael leaned forward. "Are you sure you're not going to need any help with them?"

"The last thing that either of us needs is for them to think I can't handle whatever comes my way. So, no thank you."

When Ben still didn't move to open the door, Michael put a paw on the boy's shoulder. He could see that the husky was determined, but there were still a few lingering doubts. "If it helps, I know you'll do fine. You've always made me proud."

The praise started a warm glow in Benjamin's chest, and his fluffy curled tail swept side to side. "Don't wander off either though, okay?"

"I'll be right here behind you."

When Ben saw Michael watching his tail, his heart skipped a beat. "You do like the view from there, don't you?"

Michael's cheeks flushed beneath his fur. "One of the perks of my position."

"There's a... Ah... Ahem."

The otterfox's eyebrows went up. "Yes?"

"Nothing, nothing. I was just thinking that there're some particular positions that I'd like to see filled." His tail made another sweep, accentuating the impish smile on his muzzle. "But I'm sorry, Mr. Saukkokettu, I can't discuss available openings right now, or I might break a promise I've made." Benjamin turned the knob, pushing the door aside. There was a spring in his step as he strode in.

The lavish decor continued into the boardroom's interior; the morning light shining through the windows that composed the north end of the room made the wood paneled walls' rich grain glow. Below the glass windows, a panoramic view of the city spread out, the larger buildings downtown giving way to suburbs a mile or so distant and then transforming again into a forest of smokestacks and their attendant factories at the roots of the mountains to the east. In the center of the room sat a solid onyx conference table, supported by thick columns of rich, dark wood, shaped into inverted chevrons. The monolithic slab had been polished to a flawless mirror finish, which seemed to paradoxically absorb and reflect all light that touched it. Around the table were eight matching leather chairs which were no less impressive. These were already occupied by the division managers, save the one at the head.

As one, seven pairs of eyes turned towards them. Benjamin recognized each of his division managers from their file photos, part the information package he'd studied over the previous weeks. He took mental roll, going clockwise around the table.

On his seat's left was a muscular mountain lioness, Amanda Nuesta, Security. The first thing that he noted was to not meet her alone after ticking her off; she was the biggest mountain lion that he'd ever seen. Instead of the suits that the others wore, she was dressed in one of Roth International's security guard uniforms, complete with a small radio mic clipped to her lapel. She was quiet, but there was little that her watchful eyes missed. In a way, she reminded him a lot of Michael.

Next was an athletic male dalmatian, Emil Hafuren, Personnel. His tailored brown suit said sophistication, but the way he kept running his paw over the top of his head and rubbing the back of his neck said bundle of nervous energy. The dog was also clearly a runner, thin but not terribly so, and well-toned. Ben decided to take some small comfort from the spotted dog's nervousness. Perhaps the others were more anxious than he was.

Beside Emil was a tod whose body mirrored the dalmatian's: Soren Ashe, Legal. While his red fur was fluffier than Emil's tight white-and-black-spotted coat, there was no mistaking that the fox took care of himself. His fur went especially well with the expertly fitted black suit that he wore. Like the lioness, he was a picture of calm, albeit much more animated, as he exchanged a few words with his neighbors. Friendly and outgoing, quick to smile. Ben had to remind himself that foxes and lawyers had sharp teeth; they just hid them well.

In the seat opposite of Benjamin at the other end of the table was a male hyena with a muzzle covered in gray fur, Ruhal Soturi, Research and Development. In his prime, the spotted african dog must have been massive. Even now, his frame was solid, giving him a formidable presence. Still, age had taken its toll. Gray frosted the fur between his ears, and the black of his paws had flecks of silver. He wore a thick gray suit and on his left paw was a heavy gold and ruby ring. He sat straight in his seat, disciplined, friendly to the others that spoke, though his laugh hinted at rough edges beneath a suave exterior.

Next to him sat another male hyena (no relation), Ken Centilli, Finance. While much younger than the R&D manager, he had a few pounds he could stand to lose and a less imposing build. He was curious, glancing in Michael's direction, and didn't seem to be interested in the others present.

In the middle of the right-hand side sat a female raccoon, Carol Hendricks, Operations. She wore a dark purple business suit jacket, a matching purple knee-length skirt, and a white blouse. A ruff of lace tailored down the front of the blouse showed off a single heavy gold chain draped over her bosom. A mother of five, she tended to not have time to work out, and it showed. She was the first to really notice Ben standing in the room. Her dark eyes had swept over him, and he smiled. She didn't return the gesture.

Finally, on the right of Ben's chair was a male german shepherd, Cedric Waverly, Information Technology. His pelt was the most common coloration among alsations: fawn and black, covering a body of average build. He was, however, the most relaxed among the gathered executives. He'd already taken off his suit jacket, which was currently draped over the back of his chair. The cuffs of his shirt were unbuttoned and the sleeves rolled up to his elbows, which rested on the onyx table.

Each one of the managers looked toward the door in turn, and none gave any indication of recognition. One by one, their gazes settled on the older of the two newcomers.

Benjamin took a quick step up beside the vacant chair at the head of the table and thumped his briefcase down, his newsboy cap going beside it. The startled executives all frowned.

Michael went over to a cart stocked with early morning meeting fare for a carafe of ice water and a glass.

Ben opened his briefcase and took out a stack of folders, setting them on the table. "Good morning! I would like to introduce myself in case there's anyone here that doesn't know who I am. My name is Benjamin Bartholomew Roth the Third. Your director, Hans Weibenhurst, has accepted a promotion to Roth International headquarters, so I have been appointed by Jan and Ricardo Roth as the new head of Division Eight."

The fox who had been in the middle of a sip of coffee nearly spilled his mug. "YOU? You're Hans's replacement?"

A wave of murmurs swept over the table.

"What? This will ruin everything..."

"What's he playing at...?"

"...has no right..."

"The board can't be serious!"

Ken Centilli, the division's finance manager, turned to Michael in disbelief. "He must be joking. Tell me he's joking."

Benjamin continued, tail waving in a friendly gesture. "I'm afraid I'm quite serious. The CEOs of this company have placed a great deal of personal trust in my ability, and I am committed to ensuring this division excels. Since Roth International is still growing, we've opened up several new managerial positions in Birah. I felt that one of these was a perfect fit for director Weibenhurst's talents, and Mr. Weibenhurst happens to agree. In his place, I hope to continue our growth here in Endra." Benjamin settled into the posh leather chair at the head of the table. Michael poured him a glass of ice water and set it beside him on a coaster. He nodded in polite acknowledgement before continuing. "I've called this meeting today so we can spend some time getting acquainted."

Amanda, the large security mountain lioness, held up a cautious paw. "We... Excuse me. We weren't told anything about who was appointed."

Ben nodded. "That is correct. I felt it was best if I had a chance to meet everyone in person before you started to form opinions about me."

Emil from Personnel cocked his white and black spotted ears in confusion. "Why would they appoint you? How were you appointed...? I mean, you're not... I didn't even get any paperwork."

Ruhal, the old hyena heading up Research and Development, frowned. "Boy, they're more than just opinions. You can't go changing the facts of life."

Ben split the stack of folders and slid them to the nearest executives as he shook his head. "No, you can't. One of those facts happens to be that I'm here and in charge. Now, there are a few things I'd like to go over this morning, including a brief report on your departments. If you would pass those down?"

Neither the security puma or german shepherd from IT touched the folders.

From the dalmatian Emil, on the left: "Preposterous. You have no--"

Ben looked Emil in the eye, and the gimlet glint the young Roth gave him cut him off as effectively as a knife. "Authority? I have been duly appointed by the board."

The dalmatian hunched down. "...haven't completed...paperwork."

Cedric, the german shepherd in charge of Information Technology, pushed the folders back towards Ben. "It doesn't matter if God appointed you. No one so young has ever been appointed to an executive position in the company. Hell, no one this young has even held a job. We'll be laughingstocks, even in a province as open-minded as this one!"

Soren the fox shook his head. "Everything we've built will be wasted..."

Emil shot a woeful look at Benjamin. "Destroyed...finished."

Ken the hyena leaned towards Carol the raccoon to converse. The glances he shot Benjamin were far from friendly.

Ben knew that there would be resistance to him, but that didn't make it any more welcome. The growing tension in the room was seeping into him, and his muscles had started to tighten up already. He forced himself to relax. He took a sip of water then rapped his knuckles on the table for quiet. The others fell into a reluctant silence. "My appointment is...rather unusual, I'll grant you that. But I assure you..."

Carol, the matronly raccoon, made an impatient gesture. "You have no experience. What do you know about the people here? We've just rolled out a new package of initiatives this quarter, some of which require the cooperation of local industry and business."

"I have studied the current approved business plan, associated agreements, and business profiles. As for dealing with local businesses, you leave that to me. All that you ladies and gentlemen need to do is keep providing the same top-notch support that you have for Hans."

Carol's black- and gray- banded tail swished. "I doubt that any of them will take us seriously now. The worst part is that it's taken a lot of time and effort to build up Roth International here. Previous directors haven't been as...scrupulous, as Hans. Taking over now could undo all of our progress."

Benjamin nodded gravely. "I will admit that there are some risks involved, but when aren't there?" He flipped his folder open. "Maybe I can help ease your doubts about my competence. Why don't we talk about our current plans? Any of you can ask me anything you like."

Ruhal, the old hyena at the far end of the table, held up a graying paw. "Boy, this is a business, not a schoolyard game. There's no place for a pup here." He looked to the otterfox at the head of the table. "Mr. Saukkokettu, isn't it? I think we've all had enough of this farce. Please remove this child from these proceedings. I move that we request a new nomination for the directorship from the board."

Michael's face remained impassive -- aloof, even -- as the others nodded their assent to the old dog. "Director Roth has the full confidence of the board. Request and motion denied."

"That's insane!" Ruhal balked, his jaw working up and down wordlessly before he found his voice again. "What does he know about responsibility? Of running a multimillion krin division in a billion krin company? They can't really believe that this child has what it takes to run this division. He won't even be out of school for years!"

Michael continued, "Mr. Roth has completed the Tanar School of Business Management coursework, earning the school's highest honor, the Vanguard Certificate of Merit. He has also passed the level two Imperial Business Law Exam in the ninety-eighth percentile and the level two Imperial Accounting Exam above the ninety-seventh percentile. That, sir, puts him ahead of me, his parents, and you. In other circumstances, it would qualify him for immediate entry into the Imperial Ministry of Finance."

Ruhal's jaw dropped. "Wha... What? How is that even possible?"

Benjamin leaned forward, folding his paws together on the table. His voice was calm but carried an edge nonetheless. "Hard work, endless study, and more than a little quick thinking."

An uncomfortable silence descended as anger and dismay flitted across their faces.

Ben's ears perked up. He turned to the division's finance manager. "Now that I have your attention, pursuant to the division charter, I hereby notify the finance department that I have initiated an internal audit."

Ken looked quite startled. His head snapped towards Benjamin. "Whatever for?"

"Because I have seventy-five hours to verify the integrity of the division records and file any discrepancies. As it's my signature on the records transfer receipt, it's my responsibility--" He shot the older hyena at the far end a piercing look. "--and I'm going to make damn sure that everything has been reported correctly. Wouldn't you?"

The finance executive's paw exhibited a slight tremor as he slid a pad of notes away on the table. "What level of audit?"

"Comprehensive."

He rose from his seat, paws clenched tightly as he glared at Benjamin. "How dare you."

Soren, the fox from Legal, cleared his throat. "While Mr. Centilli and I might have disagreements, he runs a tight department. An audit is completely unnecessary."

The hyena shook with anger. "Enough is enough! I'm not going to stand for any more of this!" He stood rigid as he spoke. "I will not work for a child. Especially not this whelp. Education doesn't matter; appointed by the board doesn't matter; being the Roths' heir doesn't matter. There is simply no way I can allow this. He's a pup! On principle alone, he has no right to order his betters around," he snarled. "I've tolerated a lot of things in my time here, even director Weibenhurst's...eccentricities. This is the last straw!"

Benjamin regarded Ken coolly, an eyebrow raised. "Eccentricities?"

The rest of the executives didn't have time to flinch.

"Hans Weibenhurst..." The hyena's jaws snapped in pronouncing the name "...is gay. Not only is he gay, he's flaming queer. By rights, he should be turned over to the authorities for questioning. Hell, he's 'dressing up' for the party being thrown for him today, isn't he?"

Emil, the dalmatian heading up Personnel, sat straighter. "It was part of a contest he ran for the employees, and the winner got to choose how he dressed for his last day. You know how important morale is; the staff have been quite excited for this opportunity."

Ken sneered. "Covering up his perversion with something like an employee's 'contest prize' is a pretty thin excuse, if you ask me. However, that cross-dressing buck isn't what's important right now, anyway."

Benjamin put aside his curiosity, gesturing towards the angry hyena's seat. "Mr. Centilli, I'm confident that I can convince you that Division Eight is in good paws. Please, sit down."

The hyena remained resolute. "Not on your life. If your father and mother and the rest of you want to destroy your reputations, that's their and your business. I will not stain mine any further." He turned to Michael. "Mr. Saukkokettu, I am resigning, effective immediately."

The otterfox shook his head minutely. "I'm sorry Mr. Centilli, I cannot accept your resignation; only Mr. Benjamin Roth can do that."

Ken spluttered. "You can't be serious. As R.I's Director of Operations, you're the ranking officer here."

Michael kept an eye on the hyena, paws behind his back. "I'm sorry; my paws are tied in this matter. All matters concerning divisional operations must be directed to Director Benjamin Bartholomew Roth the Third."

Benjamin leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers. "Mr. Centilli, I am a generous man." At the word 'man' all of the other executives winced; Ken just glared. "Since you feel so strongly about this issue, I will release you from your contract with no termination penalties. In fact, I will execute the buyout clause for the remaining time on your Roth International employment contract."

The hyena stepped away from the table and came forward. He stopped beside Benjamin under Michael's watchful gaze. His voice had a growl to it as he spoke. "Not on your life; you can keep the buyout clause to yourself, I want nothing further from you, Roth International, or anyone else here."

Ken turned smartly on his heel and was gone, slamming the conference room door behind him.

The executives stared after their departing colleague. Their faces were sullen, their nerves ragged and fur ruffled from the morning's spiraling catastrophe.

Carol's chair creaked as her posture slackened into a slump. "Mr. Roth, you're going to be putting that accounting knowledge of yours to work really soon. He was our finance officer."

Benjamin had taken out a pad and had begun making notes. "If he doesn't want to be here, then it's better that he's gone."

She scowled at Ben. "The announcement of your audit was a slap in the face."

"Audits aren't that uncommon, are they?"

"Coming from you, it stung his pride. We've all been humiliated just by your presumption that you could come in here and take over without any regard for who...and what you are."

Benjamin's fur bristled. He set his notepad and pen neatly on the table before speaking loudly enough to override the whispering from everyone in the room. "That's enough! I came here to meet you and get a feel for my company's position in this province. My educational credentials and certifications have been presented. Most importantly, the General Operations Director for the whole of Roth International has spoken on the board's behalf concerning my appointment. That alone should be more than enough to convince anyone that I can handle the duties of division head."

Carol grimaced. "That still doesn't change the fact that you're..."

He came out of his chair, paws on the table. "I'm. Not. Finished." The fire and determination in Benjamin's words made everyone at the table flinch. They all shrank back a little, even the imposing mountain lioness. "You want to fight over my age, but I have neither the time nor the inclination to discuss it further." Benjamin fixed each one in turn with his steely gaze. "I can see that there are some issues for all of you to think over, so we'll recess for two hours. Each of you should decide today if you want to continue to be a part of what you've built here. I may not be who you expected, but you'd better get it through your heads that I'm not just some kid that's riding my family's coattails so I can goof off on the company tab. I'm not going to lose this opportunity to show the world what I'm capable of, and I'm sure as hell not going to back down from any of you." He settled back down into the leather chair. "I would much rather work with you than without. Director Weibenhurst put together a good team; let's keep it that way. Dismissed."

One by one, they stood and left.

Benjamin sat facing forward, paws clasped on the table, his face a stony mask that didn't give any acknowledgement of their passing. After the executives had filed out and the door closed, Benjamin rested his head in his paws, elbows on the conference table as he massaged his temples.

Michael picked up the untouched folders and set one at each place at the table. As he passed by Ben, he touched the husky on the arm. "Feeling alright?"

"That has to be some kind of record. Twenty minutes on the job, and someone quit already."

The otterfox chuckled. "We once started up a factory where ten percent of the workers didn't show up the first day. That was a mess." He patted Ben on the back. "Don't be hard on yourself."

"You think so? What if they all decide to walk out? We'd be hamstrung for at least a month, maybe an entire quarter, if Carol quits."

"Hard to say right now. One thing I know, though: you had their attention at the end."

"If they actually listened, then maybe, just maybe, they'll give me a chance." Benjamin sighed, and then stood. "You know, I hear there's a party going on; maybe we should peek in for a bit."

Michael opened the conference room door with a smile. "An excellent idea."

*****

When the elevator doors parted, Ben sniffed at the air. He could detect the sweet aroma of syrup and the savory scent of sausage. "I guess it's a breakfast party?"

Michael licked his lips. "Mmm, waffles with lots of syrup."

The husky coughed into his paw to disguise his reply.

Michael tilted his head. "What did you say?"

Ben started off towards the strongest concentration of smells. "I don't know what you're talking about, I didn't say anything."

Michael grinned, taking his place behind Benjamin and just to the side. "Yeah, smells like they have sausage, too."

This floor housed the bulk of the Information Technology department but was mostly cubicles for the executive support staff. The work areas showed signs that their occupants had arrived for the day, but otherwise the floor was deserted. Further in, the smell of breakfast was accompanied by faint cheers and ripples of applause, so they continued in that direction.

They rounded a support pillar and stopped. The floor on this side of the building had been cleared and a large number of tables set up. Each one was covered by a fancy white tablecloth that glittered with silverware, crystal glasses, and colorful flower arrangements. To the right, a long buffet was in the midst of being set up with fancy silver serving dishes filled with waffles, pancakes, bacon, sausage, and other breakfast fare by a catering crew. Just beyond the dining area was the source of all the noise: a large crowd gathered around a stage. There were furs of all kinds mixed together as they pressed close to the edge of the platform. Their applause had transformed into a rhythmic clap that accompanied a periodic flash of snow white and shiny red above their heads. There was someone there, being gently tossed across the top of the crowd, and for a moment they were thrown high enough for Michael's and Benjamin's jaws to drop.

The object of the crowd's attention was an albino tufted deer. This one's perfect, unblemished pelt of snow-white fur lent his already graceful body an ethereal quality. Hooves and short, delicate antlers that any sculptor would be proud of continued that unearthly impression. They were a rosy pink, every curve as smooth as a river stone. Just like any other albino, the only other coloration the deer's body bore was pink on the nose, where the fur thinned, and the blood-red coloration of each iris. As a tufted deer, his most unusual feature was a pair of two-inch fangs that curved down from inside his upper muzzle. His were sharp, shiny bone-white, and perfect in symmetry and length.

However, if they hadn't already known that Director Weibenhurst was male, they wouldn't have been able to tell from seeing him now. The buck's expertly groomed, short fur clung to an effeminate frame, which, while not delicate, was well-proportioned, and in turn filled out a tight, elegant, and expertly tailored red evening gown. The dazzling flashes they'd seen were from red sequins that covered it, sparkling in the overhead lights as he rose and fell over the crowd holding him up.

Benjamin stared as the deer dropped out of sight again into the paws of the enthusiastic crowd. "Director Weibenhurst's file photo doesn't do him justice, does it?"

The otterfox studiously looked away from the deer, watching out of the corner of his eye. "No. Not at all."

"With those fangs, I don't suppose he could look more like a vampire, could he?"

Michael's sudden laugh sounded like an otter-bark. "At least what we heard about Endra was right."

"Yeah, I'm glad that Mr. Centilli's sentiments aren't shared by everyone."

The crowd's enthusiasm was infectious; someone had brought confetti, and pawfuls of it were flung into the air to come fluttering down everywhere. As Hans was passed towards the perimeter Benjamin's ears snapped forward. He could now see that some paws were doing more than just supporting the buck; they were getting in a grope or two as the deer went by overhead.

Benjamin leaned closer to Michael and whispered, "Do you see what I'm seeing?"

"What am I looking for?"

"C'mon, you have to admit that the guys are just as eager get a paw on him as the women are."

Michael didn't have to wait long. A big strapping bull terrier had quite visibly squeezed Hans's rump. The otterfox grunted in surprise. "I'll be damned. Some people have that effect on others, I suppose."

Hans had reached the edge of the crowd nearest them. He was smiling, shaking offered paws and clearly enjoying himself. If he noticed the undue attention heaped upon him, he didn't seem to mind. He was close enough now for them to hear the assembled men and women talking to Hans and his replies in a rich germanic accent.

"Best of luck!"

"Zhank you."

"Thank you for everything, Hans."

"Ezteban, you are mozt velcome."

"It was a pleasure working with you, Hans!"

"Likevize, Janice."

As he was about to pass by, the buck's head came around and caught sight of the two of them. He immediately grabbed onto a nearby paw, gesturing to be put down. Those supporting him complied, and he disappeared below their upraised arms. A wave of curiosity rippled through the crowd, the clapping stopped, and those near the edge turned to see who the newcomers were. Whispers started to spread. A moment later, Hans emerged from the assembly. He headed straight for the young husky and accompanying otterfox. As he walked, his toned legs flashed through slits that went up the sides of the dress, carrying him with a grace surpassing even that which his kind was normally blessed with.

Benjamin offered a paw, and Hans's grip surprised Ben with its warmth and firmness. "Mr. Weibenhurst, a pleasure to meet you."

"Director Roth, zhe pleazure iz all mine. I'm zo glad zhat you could come." When he shook Michael's paw, his countenance brightened measurably. "Mr. Zaukkokettu, may I zay zhat you are looking vell? It iz vonderful to zee you again." He reluctantly let the otterfox go to address Benjamin. "Now zhat you are here, vould you like to introduce yourzelf? I'm zure zhat everyvon here vould like to zee zhe new director."

The huskywolf's eyes widened. Sudden panic gripped him. One executive out of seven had quit; how many would one in seven -- or more -- mean in this crowd? "I...uh..."

Michael put a paw on Benjamin's back, pushing the mortified huskywolf a step forward. "What he means is, yes. He would be delighted to address the fine folks of Division Eight."

Ben glanced back at Michael to object, but the otterfox mouthed the words, 'You'll be fine.' The encouragement didn't reassure him much, but he stopped resisting and straightened his tie resolutely. "I'd love to."

Hans threaded an arm around Benjamin's elbow, a radiant smile spreading across his muzzle that softened the appearance of his sharp fangs. He gave Benjamin's arm a friendly tug, and the huskywolf followed. "Exzellent!"

Despite Hans's banter along the way, Benjamin's mind felt numb as he was led through the crowd. The faces Ben saw frowned, and murmurs rippled in his wake. He cursed Michael silently. Why couldn't Michael have waited until he was ready to meet everyone? Even if he'd practiced public speaking in school and with Michael, swaying this bunch wasn't going to be an easy task. Especially without a single bit of warning right after someone had quit over him already.

By the time Hans led him up onto the stage every eye was on him. Then the deer let go to approach a microphone stand. Ben stood as calmly as he could as he thought about what to say to them all. He felt doom approaching; the division might actually collapse if there were a severe enough reduction in workforce.

"Ladiez and gentlemen. Ve have a distinguished guezt vith uz today. I know zhat many of you have vondered who vill replace me, zo now I have zhe great pleazure of introducing Benjamin Barzholemew Rozh zhe Zhird." He held out a paw, inviting Benjamin forward. The husky stepped up and bowed to the stunned crowd. Ben could see the unease on their faces. There was a long pause, a collective hesitation as they regarded their new boss, then someone clapped. Others followed suit, and the applause spread. "Zhat'z right, let uz zhow him a proper Divizion Eight velcome." Hans clapped too, and the applause swelled. He motioned for quiet again. "Before I turn zhe lazt few minutez over to Mr. Rozh, I vanted to zay a few vordz." The buck had everyone's attention, including Benjamin's. There weren't many men that could be commanding and graceful while dressed like a runway model, but Hans pulled it off in spades. He was calm, relaxed, and in his element in front of the hundreds of people. "By now you have noticed zat Mr. Rozh iz qvite young. Traditionally, ve have viewed zhoze of hiz age az immature and unfit for rezponzibility. Perhapz zhat iz true in many cazez. My friendz, I tell you now, zhiz iz not true vith Mr. Rozh. Zhe more I have ztudied Mr. Rozh'z accomplizhmentz, ze more I have come to admire him."

Benjamin felt a great relief as Hans spoke highly of his qualifications. He didn't have time to pay attention much beyond that; he needed every second to put the final touches on his impromptu speech.

"Few have done zo much in zuch a zhort time, and I am convinzed zhat zhiz divizion vill be in good pawz. Zo vizhout furzher ado, Mr. Rozh, if you pleaze."

Ben took a deep breath to steel himself, stepping up to the microphone. What he saw surprised him. No one, as far as he could tell, had walked out. More astonishing was that if any felt the same animosity that the executives had earlier, they didn't show it. Hans had swayed them, and he was in the midst of thunderous applause. Most of the people were now curious, interested; some smiled or waved, and there were even a couple whistles. At worst a few of them regarded him neutrally. Aside from Michael's companionship, it was one of the few times he felt like he was accepted. He felt his confidence surge, and he stood a little taller, a little straighter. He held up his paws and the applause soared. He felt his head grow a little lighter; their renewed enthusiasm was like an intoxicant, and he fed off of it. In the back he saw Michael leaning against the pillar, arms folded. The otterfox gave him a thumbs-up, and his grin turned into a beaming smile.

"Ladies and gentlemen." The volume of the applause lessened, and he lowered his arms. "Ladies and gentlemen, I'm honored to be here with you today. The path here, to earn this position, has been a long and difficult one, and coming after director Weibenhurst, I have some pretty big shoes to fill. Even if I don't happen to wear any." He smiled as laughter rolled through the crowd, sharing a chuckle with them. "Whatever is before us, there is no doubt in my mind that I am ready for it. I already know that we are more alike than we are different. Your own road in rebuilding this division from the ground up has been difficult, and turning this division around is an incredible accomplishment. But you didn't only rebuild; you have gone on to turn this division into one of the finest in Roth International. I promise you that I will work just as hard as director Weibenhurst has to continue this division's success. I share his admiration for all of you and hope that you will work with me to make this the best that Roth International has to offer. Thank you."

The crowd cheered. They would have given the young huskywolf a standing ovation if they hadn't already been on their feet. He stood there, basking in the glow, waved back at them, and bowed, his tail wagging. It was an incredible rush. Best of all, he could see that in the back there was a proud otterfox that clapped along with the rest.

*****

To say that the division's executive board was unhappy was an understatement. They had retired to a smaller meeting room on the executive level. Cecil and Carol sat at the room's smaller yet still expensive conference table. Soren was slumped down in his chair after downing a pair of antacid tablets, one paw limp on the table as he nursed a glass of water. Emil was more twitchy than usual as he drank his third cup of coffee. Amanda had taken her customary position in the corner. She kept a watchful eye and ear on the others but sat quietly, arms folded.

Ruhal was alight with fury as he paced back and forth at the head of the room. "A child. We have to take orders from a child. It's more than a man can bear. Maybe Ken has the right idea."

Carol was the calmest, staring at her paws in her lap. Her eyebrows were scrunched together in thought. "Yes, Ruhal, a child. An unusual one that's been given a substantial amount of power."

Ruhal paused, mid-stride. "Carol, my dear, you're not really thinking of taking the boy seriously, are you?"

The ringtail didn't move. "I don't know."

Soren drained the last of his water and set the glass down. "He has the temperament, I'll give him that." His remark brought a scathing glare from Ruhal. "My friend, all I'm saying is that he has the right attitude. I agree with you though, it's a bad time for us; our corporate image in this province is only just starting to recover."

Emil's left leg bounced a little from all the caffeine he'd had. "Why didn't Hans tell us that Mr. Roth was coming? He would have to have known. Then we could have petitioned; we could have done something to intervene. We could have helped him push back on the board harder. Hans still has influence there, doesn't he?"

Cecil snorted. "With that screwy buck's sense of humor, he no doubt approves of the..." He almost said 'whelp,' but he caught himself in time. He'd have to be more careful; this was his new boss after all they were talking about. "...new director's appointment."

Amanda smirked from the corner. "You're one to talk."

The german shepherd turned to face the mountain lioness. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"I remember that Hans gave you a chance."

"Yes, he did. But this goes beyond a dodgy record. Hans knows how important this stage of Endra's development is and how crucial his involvement will be."

The dalmatian looked to Ruhal. "So, if Hans knows we need him now, why would he give up his position so easily?"

Ruhal grumbled. "It has to be political. It wouldn't have been practical to oppose the board if they were firmly behind 'Mr. Roth's' appointment."

"That means this mess was the doing of the Roth parents."

"Probably."

Soren sat up in his chair. "What do we do?"

Carol frowned. "I don't think we have any choice. We have to give Mr. Roth a chance, but...Roth International is too important to Endra's survival. We must stay and make sure he doesn't run the province's economy into the ground again."

Cecil nodded. "I'm in."

Soren clasped his paws tightly with a half-grin. "Lead on, you crazy 'coon."

Emil rubbed his paws on his pants legs. "Just make sure he gets his paperwork to me."

Amanda stood, stretching with the liquid grace that felines managed so easily. "You've all been good to me, so I can't leave you hanging now. Count me in."

Ruhal's lip curled in distaste. "Alright, we have to give him his chance."

Cecil laughed. "What? Stormin' Soturi is letting someone off easy?"

"Far from it. One inch out of line, and we will be ready to help the board correct their miscalculation." He smiled wickedly. "Let's see just how prepared he really is."

"What do you have in mind?"

*****

"So, by the time everything was said and done all I had left was a dumb look on my face and a pawful of the Sergeant's tailfur."

Those sitting around the guest of honor's table roared with laughter as Michael set down the utensils he'd been using as props. On the otterfox's right, Benjamin nearly shot orange juice out his nose.

Hans, sitting across from them with the chin of his porcelain white muzzle resting on effeminate paws, was quite enthralled with the tale. "Ah, I imagine zhat zhe ozher zoldierz enjoyed it, zhough."

Michael chuckled, sliding his empty plate away on the table. "I sure as heck didn't. I drew a month of kitchen duty on account of Sgt. Kamataya's wounded pride."

Hans heaved a little sigh, not looking away from the otterfox. "Tell me, my good man, did you ever hear of a Lieutenant Corzo?"

"Pardon?"

"Before ve married, my vife zerved in zhe 81zt Infantry. You might have known her as Brunhilda Corzo, or pozzibly her zervice name, 'Camion'?"

"No, I don't believe I've had the pleasure."

"I vould love to introduze you. She doez not get to zee many of her military friendz nowadayz. Buzy in her cake shop, you zee."

"If time permits, I would be delighted."

The deer grew smug. "Maybe ve zhall have to make zhe time."

The hackles of Benjamin's neck rose. He could see something lurking behind the buck's blood ruby-red eyes that held far too much interest in Michael. Before Ben's jealousy could get too far, though, there was a tap on his shoulder. He turned in his seat to face a rottweiler who held out a paw.

"Mr. Roth, Jeremy Koon in R&D; sorry for interrupting. I wanted to welcome you to Endra and let you know that if Hans thinks you're alright, then, well...I think you're okay, too."

Ben's smile was genuine as he stood to shake paws. "Sir, that is very kind of you."

"If there's anything I can do to help, let me know."

"Dr. Koon, the way I understand it, you've already helped Division Eight immensely. Your work at the mines precedes you: two process improvements for iron ore extraction and counting."

The dog's muzzle gaped. "You read about that?"

Ben nodded. "I haven't had time to go into the details, but I did get to glance over the abstracts you submitted. Keep up the good work."

Jeremy smiled like many others had today. "Sir, you are alright."

Hans sipped from his glass of orange juice. "Zo, Michael, you tell zhe mozt vonderful ztoriez. Vhere elze have you zerved?"

Ben noticed a wall clock behind the dog. It wouldn't be long before he'd have to go back for round two with the executives. He gave the rottweiler's paw a final friendly squeeze before letting go. "If you will excuse me?"

"Of course."

Michael spread his paws. "There's not much to tell, I've been a little bit of everywhere, done a little bit of everything."

The fawning buck looked disappointed. "Come now, I doubt zhat. A man of your talentz getz around, doez he not?"

Ben sat again. He addressed Hans, giving Michael a covert bump with his elbow. "As much as I love hearing Michael's stories, could I borrow you for a little bit? There're some things we need to talk about while I have time."

The buck blinked, his concentration on the otterfox broken. "Hm? Oh, yez." He folded a napkin and dabbed his muzzle daintily. "Ve can use von of zhe zpare offizez on thiz floor, if you vant."

Ben stood. "Very well."

A collie at the table spoke up. "We're going have games and cake in a bit."

Hans bowed his head apologetically to those present. "My friendz, I'm zure Mr. Rozh vouldn't azk if it veren't important. If you vould give uz a few minutez?"

Benjamin gave the group a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, I promise this won't take long, and he'll have plenty of time for cake."

The white buck stood, leading off towards the edge of the party. "Zhat iz good, becauze my vife made von of her zpecialtiez juzt for today: a lemon meringue cake. Vhich alzo happenz to be von of my favoritez."

Benjamin walked beside Hans, his head cocked as a dog's does when curious. "I thought that 'lemon meringue' was a pie."

"It iz alzo now a cake. Brunhilda'z baking zkillz are unmatched in all of Ulaan! They are not limited to preconceived notionz of vhat iz pie or cake!"

"Tell me more of this cake then."

Michael followed slightly behind as they walked through the crowded room. The two talked of confections, and he kept out of the way, more bodyguard than executive at the moment. Which is when he noticed that they'd picked up a black and white shadow. A skunk was keeping pace with them a dozen yards away, trying to blend in surreptitiously with the crowd and failing. Michael's practiced eyes first swept over the skunk's paws and he was relieved to see that they weren't carrying a weapon. His mind then went on, watching out of the corner of his eye and recording the details of their new friend: Male, short, stocky; decent clothes, but they were rumpled as if worn overnight. Oddly, in the minute or so that it took to cross the floor, no one else seemed to pay the skunk any attention. Michael's ears pricked forward; maybe someone wanted him to notice the man -- a misdirection away from something more sinister. Body tensed, his eyes flicked side to side looking for threats. Nothing. By the time Michael looked back at the skunk, he'd already melted back into the crowd. Michael frowned as he followed Hans and Benjamin inside the office, tossing the face into a mental hopper with many such other faces. He would have to do some checking later.

With the door shut, Benjamin went around the desk and sat in the chair behind, Hans took a seat in front, and Michael leaned against the wall by the door.

Hans sat with one ankle up on his knee, showing off toned white-furred legs beneath the ruby red cloth of his dress. He spoke first. "Zo, how did your meeting go vizh zhe executive ztaff? I prezume it ended earlier than expected."

Benjamin's ears laid back a fraction. His anger had run its course, but he still wasn't all that happy either. "They took exceptional issue with my age. I had to lay into them pretty hard."

The buck shook his head sadly. "Zhat vould not have been necezzary had you let me prepare zhem. I could have been able to help you."

Ben waved it off. "It was better for me this way. If they knew I was coming, they could have pretended to go along with my appointment, then stabbed me in the back later. Hell, they still might stab me in the back, but at least we all know where we stand."

"I zuppoze zhere iz a zertain vizdom zhere."

Ben shifted in his seat. He hated to look weak in the slightest, but Hans would find out sooner or later. "Also, Ken Centilli resigned."

Hans shook his head. "Not zurprizing. He haz had difficulty adjuzting to Endra'z more...freewheeling azpectz. It vaz only a matter of time before he vould have left anyvay. Zhe ozherz vill come around, I'm zure."

"I sincerely hope they do. I'm going to be meeting with them in about half an hour to see if they've decided to stick with the division."

The buck's ears perked in astonishment. "It vas zhat bad?"

Ben looked down at his paws clasped on the desk. "Yeah."

"I zee vhy you vere reluctant to zpeak vizh zhe ozherz, now."

He gave Hans a lop-sided smile. "You nearly gave me a heart attack bringing me up on stage; I thought I was done for. But you did a masterful job in winning the crowd over."

Hans waved a dismissive paw. "Nonzenze! I didn't do anyzhing but tell zhem zhe truth; vhat you've done iz qvite imprezzive. Not to mention zhat your own remarkz vere qvite perzuazive. You vere bold, zincere, and played on zheir pride. Right, Mr. Zaukkokettu?"

Michael smiled, arms folded. "My thoughts exactly, Mr. Weibenhurst."

The buck's fangs rendered his grin into something far more wolfish than it had any right to be. "Pleaze, call me Hanz." He let his eyes linger on the otterfox before continuing. "Now all you have to do iz follow zhrough. You've made it zhiz far, zo I zhink zhat I have not mizjudged you. You zhall be fine."

Ben did his best to ignore the deer's flirting with Michael. "Still, thank you for supporting me up there."

"You are velcome."

Ben pulled a square of folded paper and a pen from his suit pocket, then unfolded the sheet and smoothed it on the table. It was nearly time for the real meeting to start, and he'd learned the hard way in school that taking notes would help keep things from coming back to bite him in his fuzzy butt. He took a long look at the white deer sitting across from him, sizing him up. "Now, for the biggest question I have. I mean no disrespect, but why haven't you pursued Roth International's growth in this province more aggressively?"

Hans steepled his fingers. "Ah."

"You see, my appointment to Division Eight came about because we were originally supposed to audit the progress of our total market share here. In my preliminary investigation I found that our mining operations are healthy, but our manufacturing hasn't grown much." Benjamin held the pen poised, very much a wolf in a business suit. "Could you fill me in?"

Hans leaned forward. "Firzt, a little hiztory. It all ztarted vhen Rozh International bought up mozt of the mining rightz in Endra."

"The region is rich enough in iron, nickel and titanium to make the shipping costs worth paying."

"Yez. However, Endra vas home to a developing manufacturing baze, vhich vas zupplied by zhoze minez. To make a long ztory zhort, my predecezzorz in zhe R.I. directorzhip tried to ztrongarm zhe manufacturerz to zell out. Az you have zeen, zhe people in Endra are highly independent. Zhey rezizted. Zhe more zhey rezizted, zhe more zhe directorz rezorted to underhanded meanz to zubdue zhem. In zhe procezz, great harm vaz done to zhe people and economy."

Benjamin frowned as he made notes. "I'm sorry to hear that."

"Zhe criziz came to a head vhen a rail worker ztrike blocked R.I.'z zhipmentz out of zhe province. It vas zhen zhat Mr. Zaukkokettu vas zent to inveztigate. At zhe end of zhat mezz, I ended up az director of Divizion Eight to implement reformz."

"That does explain why our presence in the manufacturing sector here lagged behind for awhile. But what's holding us back now? We've increased mineral production to handle R.I.'s external needs and those of the province with some left over. Why haven't we built more factories? Here's the kicker; I've read over the contract packages that you've put out, and you've almost completely hidden the fact that Division Eight is outsourcing eighty percent of its manufacturing to local businesses. Why?"

Hans's paws laid atop one another on the table as he regarded the young husky anew. He spoke cautiously. "Mr. Zoren is a mazter of zhe legal artz. To have unraveled zhe knot he created, you muzt have driven more zhan one recordz clerk inzane tracking down filez." He chuckled. "You really are zomething elze, you know zhat?"

The huskywolf's tail wagged as he saw Hans fold. "It wasn't easy in the least."

"Very vell, zince you have done your homevork and already jumped ahead to zhe end of zhe ztory, I vill tell you. My buzinezz plan iz to grow Endra'z economy in-place rather zhan zending all the vealth out of zhe region like the previouz directorz vere attempting to do."

Benjamin paused, thinking that new tidbit over. He decided to test the waters. "After the current contracts run out, I could reverse those decisions and build new plants to undercut everyone here. We have the capital to do that. The return would be substantial."

"You could, yez, but zhink about it. Vhat iz better? Quick zuccezz now, or invezting a little more time and double your profit later? By growing zhe province, ve draw in more people, vhich givez uz a larger labor pool, vhich drawz in ozher buzinezzez, vhich buy more of our productz becauze of our excluzive mineral rightz. New buzinezzez come in vith new ideaz, new innovationz to--" He flashed his toothy grin. "--keep zhe blood frezh, az it vere. And if zomevon doez come up vith zomezhing truly new and exciting here, it putz uz in a pozition to negotiate favorably for zhe rightz. Iz zhat not zhe greater zuccezz?"

Ben resumed taking notes. There had always been some speculation within the Roth International executive ranks on how Division Eight kept pulling off stunning mergers within Endra; especially the latest, where R.I. had absorbed Diversified Electronics, a powerhouse of a corporation. Now he knew. "That's gotta be part of how you acquired D.E."

Hans's tapered tail flicked in pleasant surprise. "You know...I'm avare of your accomplizhmentz, yet you ztill catch me off guard vith how bright you are. I'm razher proud of zhat bit of vork."

The husky tapped his pen on the paper, digesting the information Hans had provided. The implications of the scheme were staggering. Roth International controlled most of the local mineral resources, and had the means to land large contracts with other provinces or even the Empire itself. Then R.I. turned around and parceled out those contracts to the local businesses, getting a royalty on the contract, selling the minerals mined locally to those manufacturing businesses which in turn provided jobs to the community. There was one more element that made Ben's smile grow. "I see now why you've sunk a lot of resources into expanding the Research and Development team. You've got the money to do it with the burden of manufacturing elsewhere... Skimming off contract royalty percentages while we research ahead of everyone else." He stared at the deer in awe. "That's brilliant as hell. Hans, has anyone ever told you that you're one devious bastard?"

"My vife, for von."

Michael had been keeping track of the time, and they would soon have to return upstairs. He straightened up, clearing his throat. "Mr. Roth, we have to be getting back."

Benjamin looked up from his writing. "So soon?" He folded his notes and stuck them in his suit jacket's inner pocket. He extended a paw. "Hans, it has been a pleasure. I'll do what I can to see that Division Eight continues down the path you've set it on. Thank you for taking the time to explain."

Hans's expression brightened. "Zhe pleazure vas all mine. You have made me feel a lot more at eaze about leaving Endra. If you have any qveztionz, you know how to reach me? "

"I've got your number, yes; I'll be sure to keep in touch."

Michael took the lead, which gave Benjamin just enough time to see Hans lick his lips like a starving predator, eyes locked onto Michael's backside and furry otter tail. It took all of Ben's willpower to not growl at the buck.

As the elevator doors closed to take them back upstairs, Michael looked down at Ben. "He did fit that dress rather well, didn't he?"

Benjamin's ears flattened.

The otterfox's smile disappeared, replaced by a repentant splay of the ears. "Sorry."

The husky sighed as the car moved upwards.

Michael's ears drooped further. "I suppose I can't blame you this time."

Ben poked the puppy pudge that refused to leave his belly, a bit jealous at the albino deer's sleek, lithe build. "I don't think I'll ever look like that."

Michael wanted to reassure his young companion that appearance didn't matter to him. He wanted so badly to scoop the boy up in his arms and squeeze him tight, but it was just too risky. Instead he touched Ben's cheek to get the husky's attention.

The touch surprised Benjamin, and he turned his muzzle upwards. The love and concern he saw in the otterfox's expression made his eyes mist up.

Michael was sincere as he spoke. "It's a good thing, then, that you don't have to."

He wiped his eyes quickly, looking away. "Th...Thank you." He stood beside the otterfox as they waited for the doors. Then his curly tail started to sway side to side. "Well, for one thing, if dressing like that is the kind of thing that does it for you, maybe I should give it a try."

Michael arched an eyebrow. "Let's not jump to conclusions, now."

The doors opened, and the spring to Benjamin's step returned as he exited. "C'mon. It might be fun!"

This time when they passed by the receptionist's desk, Benjamin was pleased that Debra smiled and greeted him directly. There were a few more people on the executive floor now, and apparently the word was out; there were still quizzical looks, but most greeted Ben cordially in passing.

This time, when Benjamin arrived at the meeting room's double doors, he didn't hesitate. He turned both knobs and pushed them aside. All six remaining executives were already present and seated. His tail started to wag; he was very happy to see that he still had staff left. He walked briskly to the head of the conference table as Michael closed the doors behind. The assembled executives still looked none too happy. What mattered, though, was that they were here.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I'm glad to see you again." He sat. "What are your decisions?"

Ruhal stood, straightening his suit coat. "The others have given me the authority to speak on their behalf."

Ben nodded. "Continue."

"We will stay." Ruhal looked like he'd just swallowed a particular bitter spoonful of medicine as the words came out of his muzzle. So did Cecil. Amanda and Soren didn't register anything beyond an impassive glance at Benjamin. Emil twitched. Carol didn't respond at all, staring out the window.

The hyena picked up a hastily assembled folder stuffed with two inches worth of papers. "However there's one matter to be taken care of." He brought it up to the head of the table and handed it to Benjamin. "These are all the projects, reports, and daily operations summaries that Ken Centilli was working on. Someone will have to take care of these until a new CFO can be appointed." He smiled smugly. "I'm sure that any level two certified accountant can take care of them without any problem."

Benjamin rifled through the documents before sliding them into his briefcase. "Have we started a recruitment pool for the position?"

Emil glanced towards the husky, hunching down as if someone had smacked his nose with a rolled-up newspaper. "No, sir."

"I suggest that you begin drawing up a list today. I would prefer a native of Endra, or at least a neighboring province. You will find at least twelve candidates and have them ready for my review in two days' time."

The spotted dog nodded quickly as Ruhal took his seat.

"Good. Now if I may turn your attention to the folders in front of you?" He opened his, and there was a rustling as the others did the same. He smiled; the others didn't. "Let's begin."

*****

A distant, deep rumble shook the air, causing three sets of round otter ears to perk.

Vanessa jumped up from the living room coffee table where she had been working on her school assignments. "Benjamin's home!"

The otter girl ran through the living room, pulled open the front door, and burst out onto the porch. On the steps down she nearly tripped over Caleb, who had been reading a book.

"Gah! Watch where you're going Vanessa! You stepped on my tail!"

Vanessa danced from paw to paw in her overalls on the front walk. "Sorry! Don't you hear it?"

The boy set his book down to rub his injured appendage. "Hear what? What's got you tearing around the place?"

She looked at her brother. "That is their car, isn't it?"

Caleb cocked an ear towards the sound. "Yeah, I think so. There's not many cars around here that have a twin turbocharged Midea V12."

A shadow fell over the seated otter, and Caleb looked up to see Alex standing over him. Around the older otter's neck was a pair of binoculars on a strap.

Alex motioned to the thick foliage of the tree in their front yard. "Quick, hide!"

Vanessa pouted. "But I wanna say hi to Benjamin!"

Caleb adjusted the book in his lap. "S-So do I, but we gotta see what their daily routine is, just like the Basic Field Agent's Guide says."

"But..."

Alex knelt down beside his sister. "You don't want them to hurt Dad and Mom, do you?"

"No. But we'll talk to them tomorrow though?"

He smiled. "Sure. You can stay down here and talk to them tomorrow if you want."

She gave her brother's cheek a nuzzle, sprinted to the tree, and climbed up, followed by Caleb and Alex. Twenty feet off the ground there was a branch sturdy enough for all three of them. It also happened be where the broad leaves thinned out enough where they could see their neighbor's house while being difficult to spot in return. Each of them shinnied out onto the limb and sat. Alex lifted his binoculars. The otter kits didn't need to wait long. Michael's shiny dark-blue Midea eased into the neighboring house's driveway, and the rumble vanished. Both an otterfox and a husky got out. The otterfox stood to his full height, stretching. Their suits were still neat and clean, but they both looked tired. Benjamin said something to Michael. They were too far away to hear the reply, but they could see that the husky's ears were half-back, and he had a frown on his face.

Vanessa's ears splayed out. "Aww, if we were down there, we could have cheered him up."

Alex gave her headfur a pat. "If anyone could, you would."

Benjamin hauled his briefcase out of the car. The case must have been a little heavy, because it stretched the husky's arm downwards as he trudged behind Michael up the walk. The otterfox opened the front door, and they both disappeared inside.

"What are they doing?" Caleb whispered.

Alex adjusted the binoculars against his eyes to peer through the living room window. "Just talking."

"Hey kids!"

The loud voice from below startled the kits. Through the dense leafy green foliage, they saw that their father had come out onto the porch.

Jacob peered around the yard. "Where are you? Dinner's ready!"

Vanessa opened her muzzle, but Alex put a finger up to her lips. "Shhh."

The adult otter below heard the sound up in the tree and chuckled. "Are you guys international spies again?" He played along, getting down on his hands and knees to peer under the porch and walked around the yard, peering into the bushes. "Now where did those pesky Lutrae Agents go?"

The kits rolled their eyes at their father.

When Jacob came to the tree, Alex whispered down, "Just a minute!"

"What are you looking at?" Jacob followed the children's line of sight and found himself looking at his affluent neighbors' living room window.

Michael was there drawing the curtains closed. The otterfox smiled and waved. He waved back. Then, just as the curtains shut completely, the cloth jerked upwards, followed by the sound of a body hitting the floor hard. The severity of the fall startled Jacob, and concern filled him. He watched the front door to see if either Michael or Benjamin would come out for help. But there was no further movement. Jacob started to grow uneasy. He knew that Michael had fallen, probably tripped, might be fine, was probably fine, but... He couldn't let go of the impression that his neighbor was injured; he had to be sure. A second later he was sprinting across the yard. When he got to the window, he saw that the curtains had parted just enough to let him look in, so he did.

Benjamin was kneeling beside the otterfox sprawled out in the middle of the floor. Jacob was relieved to see that both were smiling. What he saw next made every inch of fur on his body stand straight out.

Instead of helping Michael up, he saw Benjamin pin the otterfox by his shoulders. Then the young man began to cover Michael's muzzle in kisses and licks. The problem was that these weren't like the affection often shared by family and friends. They were sensuous, gentle, more intimate, and far more passionate. The otterfox moved to get up, but Ben held him down. Once Michael gave into the Benjamin's wishes, a gray paw left the otterfox's shoulder and slid up, up inside the older man's thigh, gripping and kneading Michael's crotch. Then the other gray paw began to undo the buttons of the otterfox's shirt to get at the fur beneath. Moments later, they were muzzle to muzzle...

Jacob snapped upright. He couldn't watch any more. His thoughts twisted, mind reeling from what he'd witnessed.

"Dad!"

'Michael...a...a...pedophile?' He blinked, fingers going to his lips as he turned away. He felt like he'd been just thrown out the window of a hundred story building. The unspeakable scene he'd just witnessed shattered. Each element whirled around him like thousands of shards of glass, in freefall with him. Anger engulfed the shattered memory in fire. That man was taking advantage of a child! He stormed towards the front walk, a red haze clouding his vision. Michael was a respected businessman, a leader, a powerful man that could have anything he wanted. Instead, here he was preying on the innocent.

The kits up in the tree were shaken. "Dad, what did you see?"

'He's fit, he's a bit heavier than you. He could seriously hurt you.' Jacob reached the front door ready to break it down. He raised a clenched fist. 'That doesn't matter, that boy is in trouble! Even now that man is...is...'

All those broken shards falling with him aligned, shifted, reformed. He stopped in mid-knock. He'd seen the curtain jump, heard the crash. He'd come right to the window. The boy was the one who...

The hunger in Benjamin's eyes was unmistakable and had nothing to do with sustenance. 'It wasn't Michael, was it?' The surge of anger that had been carrying Jacob forward ebbed. Benjamin had pinned the older man. Benjamin was the one with his paws on Michael. Michael had resisted, had attempted to get up but was restrained by... Jacob's jaw dropped. Michael was the one accosted. Memory came back of when he'd first met the two. The young man was very sure of himself, in control, so much more mature than other boys his age. Ben hadn't been in any obvious distress. He also remembered a couple of looks that the young husky had given Michael, staying on the otterfox possessively when he thought no one was looking. Could it be that Benjamin was mature enough to...?

His thoughts were interrupted by his kits running across the yard towards him and as they neared he could see the worry on their faces. He extended paws to them. Thankfully, they didn't shake too much as he put his arms around his kits. He did his best to smile.

"Come on, let's go inside. Dinner is getting cold."

*****

All the other employees of Division Five had gone home for the night -- all except for a lone wolf sitting behind his desk. The lights in his office were out save for one lamp on the corner of the desk. Ledgers and papers lay in neat stacks in front of him. His paw was sure and confident, marking figures in neat columns and text in flowing script. Out of the darkness came a soft knock at his door.

He already knew who it was. "Come in, Belfry."

The door opened and closed with a click. The dark shape that had entered slowly took form as it approached the lamp: a coyote emerging from the shadows.

"What news do you have for me?"

"I have something interesting from Division Eight, sir."

The wolf laid down his pen and leaned back in his chair. "Go on."

A picture slid into the pool of light cast by the desk lamp, which briefly illuminated the brown paw holding it. "The Roths' son has been appointed as its director."

He lifted the picture. It was of the Roth family at one of their rare public appearances together. The Roths flanked their son, who was only ten at the time. The wolf laid it down in front of him, taking care to square its edges with the desk's. "A boy."

"He's poking around. He could be trouble."

A set of pearly white canines flashed in the dim light. "A small matter. He's just as expendable as his parents if he gets in our way."

*****

Benjamin nestled closer against Michael's side as they lay together in their darkened bedroom, causing the otterfox to flinch. "Sorry."

The husky's tackle had caught him quite by surprise, and even after a hot shower, Michael was still sore. "Couldn't you have expressed your enthusiasm to be home a bit less...enthusiastically?"

"I didn't say anything about after business hours now, did I?"

Michael laughed, his thick otter tail curling up around Benjamin's leg. "I suppose not."

There were a couple thumps of a fuzzy husky tail.

Seeing, feeling how happy he'd made Ben despite a stressful day had still been a wonderful thing. He stroked blunt otter claws through Ben's gray and white fur, loving the shivers that ran through the body next to his. "You know, I could help you finish those reports, if you want."

Benjamin tried to growl, but he was far too relaxed. A hot shower followed by otterfox snuggles had done wonders for his mood. He lay with his muzzle buried in the older man's fur, eyes half-closed. "No. I've got about a quarter of them reviewed already."

"I hope you know that a lot of what they handed over is stuff you don't really need to do."

He hugged against Michael's furry warmth. "I know. Showing weakness would lose me the pack. So I'm marking the ones that need to be routed to other departments or delegated. If I really feel the need to, I'll spot check them later."

Michael rubbed slow and firm circles along the young man's spine, using the heel of his palm to work out the knots in the husky's tight muscles. "You're still stubborn for not letting me help, you know that?"

"Only because a sexy, handsome otterfox made me that way. He never let me give up." He nuzzled into the otterfox's neck to find the musky scent he loved so much. "How did I do today?"

"Exceptionally well." He anticipated Ben, placing a kiss between his furry canine ears. "I'm not just saying that."

"I'm worried."

"You do have a lot to worry about. But I think I know how to take your mind off of things."

Benjamin couldn't hold back a moan as the paw on his back slid down and beyond. His voice was a low sensuous whisper. "You sly devil."