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Dark Seduction - Skillful Descent

By: hdm303lj



~~~~~~~~ 

Skills – Back Against the Wall

~~~~~~~~

When Miss Ashley Dithers asked me to fix her computer I was all for it. We set a time and day and I was all set for a few hours of matching wits with spammers and data miners. I packed up a nice, fairly standard set of programs and pieces of hardware and headed to her place, a quiet section of town I'd always avoided because it was so quiet.

I also avoided the place because of the security measures employed by damn near every home owner in the neighborhood. If you looked at the statistics a black male will be pulled over by the cops if he stays there for more than ten minutes... and it takes fifteen to walk through the place. Fortunately I have transportation and a Reason to be there.

Her home wasn't quite fabulous, though there was certainly attention paid to appearances. The lawn was perfectly manicured. The flower bed was vacant, but even so it was well maintained. Out of habit I let my eyes scan for the visible cameras and spotted six!!

I hesitated. After shaking bad Thoughts from my head I exited my car, picked up my backpack and tool case and headed for the front door. Ashley answered the doorbell wearing a pink sweatshirt and matching jogging pants. On her feet was a pair of slip on designer shoes... also pink. I don't like pink, but on her it was not only acceptable... she looked good. Better than when I normally saw her; the perfectly starched and creased business suits always made her look anal retentive. Probably a good thing; bank managers have to be a bit stiff.

Inside the placed was in transition. From the rumor mill I'd heard about her recent divorce... with recent being a relative term. Given the somewhat ease of the comments I placed the divorce at no less than six months. The living room was filled with an assortment of boxes and new furniture. She asked that I pardon the mess. I chuckled softly and asked how things were going.

Just making general chat is easy... only when I know I'm being watched. And it wasn't just her gray-blue eyes on my body that had me on edge; the place felt like it was under scrutiny. Once inside her bedroom I took a moment to really look around.

"You feel it too? Like you're being watched?" That settled it. Though I jokingly said it was because of the security in the neighborhood I made it a point to quietly place several monitor programs on her computer.

I'd noticed that instead of a modem her tower was plugged into the wall. Nice and convenient if you plan on staying... or snooping. As I started my examination I came to admire Ashley; she was pretty good at hiding her sensitive stuff. Nowhere near my league, but her efforts would keep someone from simply opening her private files and uploading them anywhere with less than a thought and three mouse-clicks.

However... as I was about to load an anti-viri/spyware program one of my alarm programs beeped a message. Ashley asked if something was wrong and I quickly and smoothly dismissed it as a standard alert. But it was nothing of the sort; someone already had backdoor access to her computer. My program could easily kill their access... but I chose Plan B: Spy-vs.-Spy. I finished my work... all of it... while keeping Ashley occupied with idle chatter about the really mundane things that everyone knows.

I also gave her a demonstration of what I'd done. This was not because she needed it; I needed to buy enough time to activate the white noise generator in my backpack. I gave it five seconds to kick in... then told Ashley what I'd discovered and what I'd done. I also told her I wanted to make sure there weren't any camera's inside the house... those small, micro-mini fuckers that can be easily tucked away.

* * * *

The only hard part was shaking the feeling that Ashley would let something slip. I was jazzed at the possibility of busting her ex-hubby for trying to gain some form of leverage against her. Yet... the way she seemed to utterly... cool... bothered me.

What I discovered about the back door was sobering, but also very childish. The program gave the snoop complete viewing pleasure from the array of secret cameras hidden in every room in the place... including the bathroom. I also discovered that the door was hidden. Just hidden.

See... if you hide something you inevitably leave clues as to where it is. What was not on her computer... and I checked three times... was a program to warn the snoop when the gig was up. Arrogant; just what one would expect from a hubby. He even had a bonus; Ashley got the house. Since she didn't know, all he had to do was modify the program a bit... if at all. Even before I started prepping to trace the lines I figured he had at least one connection to his terminal in his law office and another at his new doss... probably in his personal office.

It took some time to get things just as I wanted them. Fortunately I was able to ghost a massive drive to a replay function. Just the thing for recording her going about her usual ritual. I timed the loop perfectly; Ashley was online waiting for me.

* * * *

Is it him?

Checking... I glanced at the second monitor and smiled briefly. Talk about arrogant; he had a similar masking routine on the computers I'd predicted. Similar... but a bit outdated when compared to the stuff on Ashley's computer. Confirmed.

Figures. Are there cameras as well?

Confirmed.

Show me.

Negative; action not recommended.

I... see. Thank you.

If I was a bit bothered before I was paranoid now. I'd spoken in my usual clipped Shadow-Speak. It's not something normal people deal with easily. Ashley broke our chat session. Via the main monitor I was able to watch her prepare for bed. Now... knowing you have eyeballs in the home, you'd think she'd take care to not get undressed in any light source. Not her; she moved as if there was nothing wrong. I wasn't sure if I should be happy... or terrified.

She didn't go into the bathroom... and I was glad. I wasn't sure, but judging from the camera angle on one of the mini-screens hubby had a thing for watching her pee. I was just surprised he didn't have one tied into the toilet proper... to watch No. 2; he's a sick fucker. Sick... but damn good at installing the cameras. I knew where they were because I'd pulled up a 3-D layout of her place. Don't ask; I'd have to kill you.

There was not one corner of that place we could not view. Well... beneath the bed, but unless you can teleport he'll see you. The microphones were a bit harder to place, but I wasn't too worried about them. They fed their input into her computer before shipping them his way... or wherever I chose to ship them. So... after about one hour of watching Ashley sleep in one position I looped the track, fed it his way... and commanded her computer to start playing happy hardcore.

Are we secure?

Yes...

Thank you. I was getting a bit tired of the cloak and dagger stuff.

*chuckles* Sorry... old habits die hard. Speaking of which... you played your part well.

I've been married to a lawyer for twenty-five years. Long enough to have picked up more than a few useful tricks; that put my mind at ease... slightly. If she was good enough to almost hold her own against him I had to be very careful.

He even has a camera in the bathroom... aimed just right to watch you...pee.

I see. Well... I think I can take it from here. How much do I owe you for everything?

The computer repair is $25 as we agreed on before all of this. The rest... call it me being me.

Actually... I was thinking about something more... tangible.

My stomach fell. I almost broke the connection, but instead typed: Ma'am... I know this is gonna sound strange... but I'd rather not get involved with anything like that.

You would be doing me a big favor. I always make due on my favors.

Bank manager married to shady lawyer with shadier habits and fetishes... and into their divorce walks... me.

Listening...

We are divorced because I caught him cheating on me with his secretary... and he got the dumb cunt pregnant. But the real truth as to why he cheated... was because I refused to give in to his fetishes. I was not one of his club-sluts.

In the twenty-five years... I gave him oral sex only one and denied him anal. I offer both to you... along with something I absolutely refused to allow: me in bondage.

* * * *

Still here. Processing.

Yeah... processing a shitload of legal problems if I even gave serious consideration to this scheme. And I did. I could easily spoof her ex-hubby's system long enough for a quickie. A full blown BDSM session would be a challenge... and that was tempting in its own right. The challenge... not the Session. Ashley's attractive; she's definitely MILF worthy. But tied up in leather and such? Nope. I pondered trying to haggle... but she dealt with his sorry ass and people trying to duck loan payments or wiggle more while paying squat.

Then... there was the favor. I mean... after all of the sex and funky memories, that had better be seriously big ju-ju.

Suddenly... inspiration. Pause: does he have video of you in the house?

Interesting. Can you find out?

If they are on a connected terminal, yes. If not... things were well beyond my skill set.

Proceed. Shit.

I don't know why I did it. Sleazing through his security measures was less than a thought. I covered my tracks perfectly... and found what I was looking for. He actually had a schedule up. I snatched it and sent a copy to Ashley.

Can you assist?

Negative.

I waited. Then she typed: Can you see me now?

I activated the monitor. Ashley sat in her executive's chair... her legs draped over the arms. The web camera gave a fairly good view... and yes he actually had that camera in his arsenal as well.

"You really are serious... aren't you." Her hands froze. The gentle squishing that I'd filtered out now drifted through my room... distracting me.

"You can hear..."

"Everything," I chuckled. "Sorry; I've been blocking the sound as well. And I don't snoop."

"No; you wouldn't."

"So... why did you ask me?"

"Because you've always been nice to me, even when I denied your car loan." Shit... she remembered that?!?!? 

"Then there's the fact that no one at the bank knows anything about your social life. You are quite handsome." She was warming up... in more ways than conversation. I switched off the monitor... after several long seconds. Great... I've been Meat to her for... what... six years?

"Thanks. But I'd feel a shitload better if he wasn't even in the picture." Understatement.

"So you accept. Good." What? WAIT!!!

"Hold on!! Before we get into that... I don't know if he's got hard copies out and about."

"Leave that to me. I just need you to make sure his eyes stay open and fixed here."

As if the planning wasn't strange enough... she was still masturbating. Probably thought I was still watching her. I listened to the sounds of her rising arousal... and was tempted to take a peek.

"How can I contact you when I am ready?"

I wanted to say, "Don't." But From the way her tone was set in stone I figured I was in too deep already. So I gave her a program that would remain undetected.

"Thank you. Good Night." Dismissed.

Like hell. I activated the monitor. One screen showed Ashley finishing her self love session. The center screen was Code. So far I'd been swamped by her cool demeanor. That was over; I didn't mean to get involved in this shit. But I will get out... hopefully with my ass still attached. First thing first... get up to speed on Ashley Dithers and her ex.

Information is Power. I let the predatory smile creep onto my face as I ran into my first firewall. Time to Work.

~~~~~~~~

Skills – Filtered Data

~~~~~~~~

"I just don't know..."

Funny hearing those words from him; you'd think he'd just give up and have the apple hit him on the head. He's good at gathering information but blows chunks when putting it together. Actually... he's not bad. But until he gets over Bethany dumping him he won't.

He still believes it's because of something he did. If he did anything... it was being the Perfect Mate. Kind. Caring. Attentive to the smallest detail. Respectful to a damn fault. Funny that this Ashley broad chose blackmail; ask him and he'll do it. It's one of the main reasons I decided to help... tossing in a freebie in the bargain. Naturally he was suspicious; I NEVER give freebies.

We are not friends in the traditional sense. I met him in college. Even then his skills in the Matrix were legendary... as was the fact that he'd never been busted. I helped him through the Bethany thing... and kept the Truth from him. He still doesn't know.

It's not pity either; he's had his share of Good and Bad Times. Besides... I don't think I'm capable of that emotion. No... I gave him a freebie because of something he didn't do: keep tabs on her or help her select Moments when she could safely do the nasty beneath ex-hubby's prying eyeballs. Perfect gentleman... even when he's being blackmailed; the guy's a Do-Gooder if they ever existed.

What good is a lone Hero?

* * * *

What I discovered was quite a tale indeed. The video files were not only sex flicks, but tossed into the mix were several business related files. I know very little about the machinations lawyers employ but he seemed almost legit. I even give him marks for asking Ashley for the wild side of sex he snuck out to enjoy.

Her dismissal is what interested me... and him. It was short, curt, and any pushing on his part got him so much ice. His paranoia got the best of him and we have Snoop Vision Extreme. If I were him I'd wonder if she wasn't getting some action on the side as well.

Of course... he got addicted to watching. It gave him a power that was intoxicating and addictive. From there... it was only a matter of Time and Luck. I still do not have a clue what tipped Ashley off. On the surface it looks like just a random coincidence. But Gooder doesn't buy it... and I trust his instincts. Then there's the fact that she chose to remain in the house. Sure she had it designed and built to her specs. Maybe she was emotionally attached.

Now... the divorce wasn't messy but it could have been much easier on him had the girl in question not known about at least two others in his rotation. That caught him off guard... according to the video file of the trial. Yeah... I would think the same thing: not a very good idea from either one. So... why did Ashley insist? And why did he agree? THAT one I could almost tag to his ego... but her take tends to add to the uneasy queasy in my stomach.

* * * *

Digging into her background was easier than I expected... once I found the Key.

Ashley Dithers... 54 years old. Divorced at age 53. Married twenty-five years. And the trail suddenly ends at age 24... where the first mention of her is a bank account in her name. Suspicious... but these day it's nothing uncommon. Nor are the methods of finding out just what happened before she turned twenty-four.

Turns out all she did was change the spelling of her first name and drop the last. Not fancy, but effective enough to dodge her incarcerated ex-lover. He's the reason she won't do the BDSM scene; he walked in the circles that many claim don't exist. I know they do; I've pulled three Subs from masters who went too far. This guy had a Stable and regularly pimped them at local bars and other popular venues, where looking to score with 'shadowy-elements' was a sport.

So she made good when she got away; that put a smile on my face... for a split second. Those who manage to escape on their own can usually be counted on for predatory actions: strike first and last. While it wasn't outright blackmail, her past definitely had a hand in how she dealt with Gooder.

There was one thing; Ashley got a call from someone in the town where she escaped the jail-bird. It was the only time she left one of Gooder's Visible Trails of Invisibility. One saving grace: it happened before the troubles began with her ex-husband. Even so, she moved with a shitload of stealth; Ashley even rented a car under an assumed name.

She went out of her way to visit a woman. Jill Moore... one of her fellow Pets; Jill wanted to stay in town and make a life for herself. Too bad many in the town were somewhat unwilling to forget what she'd been forced to do... or let her forget. Ashley helped get her out of town... just days before the creep was released.

She spent her entire marriage looking over her shoulder... wondering if he'd gotten to Jill... or was trying to find her. Ashley's testimony was crucial in putting him in jail... and for the severity of the sentence if you believe his jail-house confession/rant. She can rest easy; bad drug deal plus trigger happy rookie cop equals dead scumbag. But... I don't think she knows. If I'm right... just taking a look there would scare her senseless.

Unless she could test herself first. Enter : Do-Gooder.

* * * *

I explained my plan carefully. He listened without asking any questions... something I wish my students would consider attempting once in a purple moon.

First... help her get free from ex-hubby. That part was tricky since exposing his spy system might just drag this into the Media spotlight. He'd want to avoid it... and she's probably trying her best to fight off Flashbacks. I asked Gooder if he could take a look at when Ex-hubby was on an extended leave from both terminals... and suggested Ashley take a similar vacation. From there... it was on Gooder.

Next... what to do about Ashley's compensation offer. He wanted to reject it out of hand. And I have to admit that a Hero would turn it down in an instant... and Gooder is a Hero.

But the offer didn't make any sense to me... especially after the tidbits I'd gathered about her past. If she intended to screw him... figuratively speaking... then it was pointless. Just ask him and he'll do it... the Eternal Good Guy Code he lives. If she's been studying him for six years she should know this. He says fear is her motivation. Fear of what?

No... there is something to her request... and the only way to find out is to take her up on it.

~~~~~~~~

Skills - Assets

~~~~~~~~

I sat in front of my monitors... all dead and black. Ol' Man Scratch was right... as always; it didn't make any sense. Why would someone with a bad stretch of abuse from a Significant Other entertain even one BDSM Session... when she denied another S.O. the same thing? Revenge? Sounds good... and I bought it... at first; now I'm not so sure.

There is also the memory of her masturbating during my Shadow Session I provided. Maybe it was sexual frustration, but she didn't stop when she knew I was looking. I even checked the video file; she didn't stop until it was almost time to Return to Normal.

In three hours I was going to signal Ashley and arrange for another Shadow Session. Not because I wanted to watch her masturbate; I had questions. I also had a plan... thanks to Scratch. Three hours.

I used the time to ask myself some serious questions about accepting the sexual activities as Payment. First... it made me feel like a cheap whore. I don't mind money for work; even favors have their uses. But sex as payment never really set well with me, and I've seen it more times than I care to remember. Second... if Scratch is right about her past the Bondage thing simply doesn't make sense. I'd think she'd want to avoid that at all costs.


Dark Seduction - Skillful Descent



There I had to agree with something Scratch likes to say about me. "People like Good Guys; they make great guinea pigs and doormats." Ashley was probably counting on my uneasy feeling... and that makes her offer of BDSM the Counter-Balance: the Bargaining Point I'll dismiss... or seek to swap for something else.

With two hours left I got a call... from Scratch. He asked what her profession was. I told him... and the old man just hummed quietly.

"Good reason not to use finances as payment; he's probably got that scoped six ways plus. I did some digging... and came up with something you might find... useful."

The quiet beep; I activated the main monitor and opened the email file. Inside there were several links to web sites... and a simple message: Variations on the Theme.

* * * *

Time. Ashley had just gotten home from work. Ex hubby was still boinking his secretary... the one who replaced the pregnant bimbo... and was scheduled to have a dinner with a client at 19:00. Figure one hour twenty minutes minimum... that left about three hours of Shadow. Plenty of time to quickly tell her that I had a plan to get her out from under his prying eyes with minimum exposure. I was still working on getting the cameras removed... and as I told her she said, "Don't."

I paused. I was about to ask her why when she began disrobing.

"Is it because I'm younger that you?"

"No. Because I trust you."

"Then why blackmail me into having sex with you. Why the pressure?"

She lowered her head... probably to keep her face from sight. Too bad her ex-hubby was good at camera placement; I had a perfect view... of her sadly surprised expression as she said, "Because you're a nice guy."

And nice guys don't go for Older Women. Especially one with a past... or so she thinks. Is she attractive? Definitely. I reached to turn off the monitor; she was down to her bra... and sheer black hose.

Check the descriptor 'attractive'; at that Moment she looked... delicious.

"Exquisite," I breathed. Ashley stopped. I cursed myself for not silencing my mic.

"You're watching me."

"It doesn't bother you... why."

"I answered that question; it's not like you to..."

"Ok. I agree... to everything. Including the bondage... but there's a catch: My Rules."

I was shaking; when that happens I'm definitely doing something I tend to consider reckless. Ashley remained motionless; my stomach dropped.

"And those rules are...?"

"You'll get them when this is over."

"I see."

I expected her to... well... cover up. I did not expect to see her get naked, enter the shower... and finger herself to five orgasms... muttering my name quietly on several occasions. I wasn't exactly watching her during the Shadow Session; most of my time was spent going over the filed Scratch suggested.

I also made sure that Ex-hubby's planned trip was scheduled and confirmed. I smiled quietly at his destination: New Orleans. Tourist Season would just be starting up... and so would the Service Industry. All of them... including the strip clubs; he'd at least get the fresh offerings of the Season. One week... three months away. I glanced at the file Scratch sent my way... and began reading.

* * * *

T – minus one Month

It took me one month to finalize the plans. It took Scratch three hours to find every hole I'd left and another two to come up with a counter-plan that really had me wondering just what skill set a Professional Chef with one year of college should have. The rest of my time was spent pouring over the sites he'd sent my way.

They were mostly online Journals. One was particularly interesting and not just because of the contents. It was because of that site that I started piecing together parts that... well... seemed to fit.

I also got to know the locations of her cameras... even incorporating a layout of her place with a favorite first person shooter... given my height and all of those mundane measurements for the Hero's view. That allowed me to get a clear view of what he was looking at... and hints as to what he was looking for.

Take the bathroom. One camera... and only one camera, was capable of actually filming her private parts urinating. It gave a sickening view of No.2 as well... which had me wondering if he had a Potty Fetish. And it was the only camera with a specific view of the genital region. The bedrooms all had multiple cameras... but they were not specifically aimed at crotch level. There wasn't even a camera tucked away to see if Ashley was double-clicking her clit... only the bathroom had such a camera.

Why?

With thirty days to go... I decided it was time to leave the house. Go for a walk. Exercise my stiff muscles... and think about what I was going to do next. Once Ashley was free and clear there was only Honor holding her to her word. If she reneged I'd be free and clear. I most certainly wouldn't bring the issue up... though I was seriously considering changing where I did my banking. I hadn't moved my accounts because I had a feeling she was watching them.

Two weeks left to go... and I was no closer to figuring out the real problem: why I was willing to go through with it. I'd come to terms with her being MILF. I even convinced myself that what she said was the Truth... or as much as she was willing to share. I was no closer to discovering why she would return to the Bondage theme after what went down in her Past, but I couldn't shake something I'd read:

It is because she Trusts me not to hurt her that I wield the Whip.

It sounded like utter bullshit... but I couldn't shake the feeling that it had Meaning... and that I was missing something. After all... it wasn't like we spoke regularly. I was just one customer at her bank. Right? I took a look at myself in the one mirror in the entire place... tucked away in a corner of my closet.

"Nothing special here," I exhaled quietly.

Because... you Look like a Do-Gooder. That's what Scratch said when he gave me that Name. Bethany said I was unremarkable... except for my Mind. The instant I remembered her I braced for the waves of regret and other depression-based emotions.

I waited. And Waited. My gaze slid over my jogging suit. Nothing special there... so what did Ashley See? Someone she trusted with a part of her Past. Something she denied her husband... and still denies the creep. But the instant she sees a chance to get free... with the help of someone she apparently Trust on Instinct... she's more than willing to share. Why? That's where my pseudo-code glitches every time.

* * * *

Three days to go... and Scratch asks for a Face-to-Face. Not unusual, but I do find it strange. He lives in New Orleans, so for him to ask for a meet means one of us is traveling. This time it was him... and he suggested that we take dinner at Frankie's Place.

I love Italian food... the good stuff, not the canned crud chock full of engineered chemical what-nots. The place was way out of my price range, but his Chef title got us a comped meal.

"Guess who got caught in baby-Mama Drama?" he chuckled.

"No way..."

"Seems he was so busy watching his new ex-wife he just swept the pregnant secretary under the rug. Tossed her a few bills to shut her up and problem solved... only it didn't work. She's asking for more money... threatening to reveal yada-yada-yada."

"His reply?"

"Typical legal speak; they're going to court. Seems she asked that his computer be checked for... personal video files."

I chuckled softly. "Serves him right. Though he'll hide his outside activities."

"He's already on it. His home is neat and orderly. And that server you hacked is no longer there... physically. Seems her lawyer has a brother who is a wiz at the stuff. Probably your equal." I scoffed at that... out of Professional Pride. Scratch smiled, a bright laughter touching his dark eyes.

"Laugh if you want, but this guy has something you don't: three cases solved directly because of evidence he found... stuff someone thought was well hidden." All the better for me actually.

"So it will be some time before he sets up shop. Plenty of time to remove the hardware from Ashley's place."

"But she wants it to stay there."

"So long as you're the one holding the controls. Speaking of which... there's someone I'd like for you to meet."

"About?" I asked around a mouth full of garlic bread.

"I know you're gonna go through with it. I figured you'd want another opinion on the Subject Matter."

"It's not like you to bring in an outsider," I said slowly.

"True," he quipped before taking a sip of the white wine. "However... this person isn't a stranger. I know them personally... and you've become a fan."

"Interesting... but your timing is off. Two day..."

"Actually... you're running late. Seems he decided to leave early. Nice cover story actually... if it plays out. Someone breaks into his place..."

"And makes off with money, some other stuff and his computers. Nice. Being a lawyer he's probably got a few clients on tap."

"Looks like you've become quite the detective Gooder."

"Give me computers and hardware any day. And I still haven't agreed to meet your friend."

"They are Pack."

* * * *

Under any other circumstance I'd stand up and leave after his suggestion. Once he claimed them as Pack, things changed; Pack means something to Ol' Man Scratch. Closer than Blood Family, Packmates are treasured beyond anything. I'm Pack... so according to his philosophy I should trust this person... because he does.

I'm willing to give them a shot, but I don't know about trust. When I said so Scratch asked me to enjoy my meal... then we'd head out for drinks. I know all of the local bars and not one of them suited his paranoia.

It wasn't a bar... not exactly. The place is well known in town... mainly because the owner is an utter recluse. Since he moved in no one outside of the groundskeeper, the mailman and meter reader have ever been to the building; no one in town has been inside. So I was surprised when Scratch pulled up to the front door. I was even more surprised to see a half naked female approach from the door's enclave.

"So..."

I watched as the car pulled away. Scratch remained silent, smoothing his duster casually as we stood in front of a solid mass of obsidian. When it opened by sliding to one side I admit to being impressed. Then I saw the highly attractive... highly naked female... standing at the entrance.

"Please follow me; you are expected."

"Gooder... may I introduce a Packmate. Smoke... this is Gooder."

"Step quietly," the older man said. I bowed respectfully before replying.

"Night Protect the Pack. I am honored to be in your home."

"This? This is only a building... nothing more. I take it you are not familiar with the Lifestyle on a personal level."

"Lifestyle?"

"Bondage Gooder; for some it's more than a one-shot sex round or a way to spice up the dullness."

"For some... it is a choice. Once that choice is made... they follow it."

"I see." Not really true; I was thinking about Ashley. She never had a choice.

"Then I must ask... why are you interested?"

"It's... complicated."

"Indeed. I gathered that because Scratch is here. Please... have a seat. If you like... I'd like to hear more about your situation."

I explained as much as I felt comfortable with. Scratch remained silent. Smoke... just listened. I left out the part where I'd edited some of his works into my own piece. When I finished he said, "You are right to seek help. You are also right in wondering why she would return to bondage. Revenge has not been her Way since her escape."

"And you know this how?"

"Smoke is better than I am when it comes to reading between the Lines. He's... got a Gift." Scratch had amusement in his words... and his gaze lingered on the older man... who sat perfectly motionless.

"She has studied you for six years... this much you know. What do you not know is what she discovered. And yet... she did not lie to you. She does indeed Trust you. Remember back to when you first viewed her masturbating. Were you watching her all of the time?"

"No. I... think I was checking on something."

"Indeed... you were doing your best to help her. It never crossed your mind to take advantage of her ex-husband's exploitation and violation."

"Do-Gooder," Scratch chuckled.

"The kind of Soul one expects to help drag you from whatever mess you're in. The kind of person who will Listen and not Judge.

"After all... you're still looking for a way to accept her offer Honorably. That... is something I admire greatly. If I may... you are just entering your thirties... right?" He chuckled at my surprised expression.

"Like I said," sighed Scratch.

"I do have a suggestion. It may be of some help. It may be shit. Who can say; are you interested in that Knowledge?"

"Yes. But I'll get it on my own. If you're anything like Scratch I'm lost."

"He was a fine Student... and is an excellent Soul. However... I'm offering you an option. Mindy..."

I turned when I saw someone peel away from one of the many dark areas in Smoke's home office. I expected her to be naked. Instead she wore a white blouse, black shirt... and sheer black stockings.

"Yes... she does have excellent legs. This is Mindy... my Secretary. She..."

"I... know. I've read some of your works. I do not see how a... Servant..."

"No. She is my Secretary. I deleted most of those Tales some time ago. Since you haven't seen them... I will offer her Services to you."

I started to rise. As I did he said, "This is not some sex toy I give you to practice your horizontal shuffle Young Man. Mindy is a Trusted Soul. She is part of My Pack."

I sat slowly. His voice didn't increase its volume... it just held a very deadly edge that actually had me worried I'd seriously made a mistake. I caught sight of Scratch... who was eyeballing me with that measured gaze he loves so much.

"What prompted you to stand?"

"Just not used to people being used as pawns against their will."

"And who says she is here against her will? Oh yes... the Lifestyle."

"She's gonna teach you about the Lifestyle Gooder... or at least one aspect. One I think you'll find... useful."

"Three days. Crash course in Tying a Woman 101 and 102."

"I have other... assets... for that particular case. Trust me; Scratch wouldn't bring you here if he wasn't totally convinced you would benefit. And Mindy will definitely be an asset... if you are a fast learner."

* * * *

"I'm going out on a serious limb Scratch. I mean... what am I supposed to do with her?"

"For starters... you can release her from Smoke's command."

"OK... I release you from his command Mindy."

"That's cheating," she quickly replied. I was amazed at the tone of her voice; she was actually pissed.

"Yes it is. Gooder knows squat about the Lifestyle. I refuse to let him go in without proper ammo."

"Always the soldier," she purred.

"Always thinking sis."

Thank God it was a nick-name; Mindy is white.

"So this is the famous Do-Gooder I've heard about. I expected a bit more bright-eyed enthusiasm from him. He's got the Eyes."

"Excuse me... the Eyes?"

"You see more than most. You see Truths hidden behind Lies."

"Enough with the Wicca Mind Speak sis; he needs a crash course in the subtle side of the Lifestyle and I need you to get him up to speed."

"Wait... so all of that with Smoke..."

"Was very real and very necessary. Though I admit... you pushed things by standing up. Sir does not take kindly to such things." Her voice softened when speaking about Smoke.

"Gooder was safe; he got up because he felt offended and slighted by the offer... like any Do-Gooder should. Protocol be damned... he won't go back on his Code of Honor... any more than Smoke would."

He had me there. "So... now that I am in control..."

"It still bothers you that I am at your beck and call?"

"I don't understand. I mean... you're there willingly?" She nodded. "Why?"

"That is a long and complicated story."

"Figures," I sighed. "Then tell me... what am I supposed to learn from you? Mind... I've got three days..."

"Hold it." Scratch fumbled in his pockets... once he found his cell I watched as his face slid into Biz Mode.

"Gooder... we need to get you back home. Now. Someone tried to torch Ashley's home."

"Is she OK?" I asked excitedly.

"She's fine. Only time those paranoid rich cunts ever helped anyone. Sis?"

"You know where to find me. Be Safe Do-Gooder."

* * * *

"Who was that on your cell?"

"And old friend on the fire department. He called to cancel our breakfast; this place doesn't get arsonists often. If the news gets hold of it... and I'm fairly sure they will... it will be a circus soon.

"And everyone loves a circus... especially nosy fuckers. Once that happens there will definitely be people asking questions..."

And if they asked the right questions I'd come up. After all... I was seen there. Only once mind you, but it would be enough contact that her ex-hubby... who was probably responsible but the proof was still forthcoming... if ever... would want to ask me questions. After all... I'd been on her computer. I couldn't really hide how much I knew... and that just might tempt his sorry ass into trying to co-opt me into some scheme.

"He's the prime suspect... right?"

"Typically they go for close relatives... yeah. His trip to New Orleans is definitely cancelled... unless he runs or stumbles into something bad."

"Think you can keep an eye on this? I mean... I know you're leaving..."

"Relax; I've got you covered Gooder."

"Is Mindy..."

"By adoption. My parents adopted her when she was six."

"Oh. I..."

"Still trying not to offend anyone. You need to fix that problem. You won't of course."

"Probably not," I chuckled.

"Smoke seems like a nice guy. He's a bit... cold."

"Yeah. But like you he won't lie. I asked if he'd let you talk to Mindy... the rest was his improvised routine. I was as shocked as you were."

"Did it piss you off? I mean... she is your sister."

"No... it didn't." He was amused. "After the shock wore off I figured he was right. See... because he gave you her services... she's Bound to your Will."

"Gee..."

"Look at how you talk to me. Open. Honest. No B.S. and even less pussy-footing. Believe me when I say that Mindy would rather not hurt someone's feelings. She's got a very bad habit of doing it." His words dripped venom.

"Well... with her services at your Command... that means she obeys you. Yes I cheated when I told you to release her from his Command. In doing so she's Bound by your Rules. Your Will. Your Instinct."

"And I'm a Do-Gooder. First thing I did was give her back her Free Will... for the duration of her service."

"Exactly. She can Shoot with me easily. She'll do her level best to be mindful of your emotions... but the instant she gets that computer cold you favor she'll cut loose."

"And... if she were under Smoke's Command?"

"She becomes his Secretary. You would eventually figure that out."

Yeah... MAYBE!!! If I had a week... maybe I'd be able to figure that out in time to get something useful from her. So...

"Thanks for the hand. I just..."

"Forget it. Actually... you should thank Smoke. Remember... she's Family."

I smiled... then Thoughts of Ashley filled my head.

"What do you think went down?"

"Do you want the paranoid list... or the really Dark Thoughts."

~~~~~~~~

Skills – Code Outline

~~~~~~~~

Scratch knows people; it really was a media circus. Reporters were everywhere. They asked questions. They poked their cameras everywhere. I kept my eyes glued to the news as well as online blurbs.

I was looking for cameras... his cameras. Mindy helped; her career is in video... so I was fortunate to have her there. She dove into her job eagerly. I admit... having someone live with me was oddly satisfying. I just wish the situation was different. The news kept after her ex-husband and he kept insisting it wasn't his doing.




Dark Seduction - Skillful Descent



I believed him. He has access to arsonists; Ashley's attacker seemed to follow the news story: he got pissed because she denied his loan. Everything fit... even the holes in the would-be arsonist's alibi.

Even so, the media spotlight was enough to keep him occupied and giving serious consideration to swaying Ashley to move... so he could be free and clear to buy the place quietly and have the cameras removed during remodeling. That was Mindy's take on things. While I wasn't sure she had Scratch's insight her words held a certain solid logic to them.

"He's good. I can't find any of the inside cameras from the news footage. Though they may have more stashed in their vaults somewhere."

"Good. That means he'll have the same issue unless he knows where to look and gets overly paranoid."

"Not likely; he's a successful lawyer. If he doesn't cover his tracks he stays broke."

"And you know this how?"

"Dated a law student in college."

* * * *

Women Always Know. My father told me that and I never really believed him. Good guessers I'd give them but I seriously doubted that pithy statement. Not because I'm a sexist pig or anything; people are just too complicated... even the stupid ones.

People are also strange. Mindy liked working naked. She likes walking around the place equally naked, though she has taken to wearing a black kimono when puttering around. I am not a prude!! It's highly distracting to have a forty-three year old stunning dark-haired beauty prance around butt naked. When I asked her why the reply was just as shocking.

"I like masturbating."

"Well I haven't seen you do it."

"That is because I do not know the Laws of your Home. I only know that you request I wear something while walking around."

The Laws of the Home: just one of the Lessons I was learning during her stay. It took me two nights to formulate them into something cohesive enough to pass her scrutiny. It was also very awkward; I'd never given much Thought to how someone should behave in my place. I just winged things... and the Lifestyle was no place to ad-lib anything. Once that was done I was free to concentrate on Ashley.

She was behind a plethora of legal Stoics and snoops eager to find out if she had contact with... well... anyone worth the by-line. I examined her features... very professional with splashes of emotions tossed in to keep the press looking at her ex-husband. In her home she moved quietly, each step measured and paranoid.

"Do you think she'll put on a show for you?"

"Not while the press is there... including snoops looking for a juicy tidbit for their scream sheets. She'll be Miss Sweet and Public until the majority of the news crews leave... whenever that is."

"Three days already. I'd say they have two more before the trucks leave. That will leave only follow-ups from the local affiliates. When will you contact her?"

"That's a good question." I leaned back in my executive chair. That's when I saw one hand in Mindy's lap.

I wanted to look away, but forced myself to watch. Not her face... her hands; I'd never seen a woman masturbate up close and was curious about how she manipulated herself to orgasm. Strangely... I wasn't aroused. I watched as she approached her orgasm. I watched as she experienced it.

"Feel better?" I asked quietly.

"Somewhat. When I get into the Mood I usually keep going until I'm exhausted."

"And when you get into the Mood... Smoke does what?"

"That... depends. If I've earned the privilege he allows me to do as I wish. If I haven't..."

"You get punished." The words felt heavy on my tongue.

"Restrained so that I cannot touch myself."

"Beaten?"

"No." I was surprised... not only because of the lack of physical torment but because she sounded wistful.

"It's Human Touch. I...need to be touched. Held. It's difficult to explain... unless... Do you like cuddling?"

* * * *

It was an innocent Question. She couldn't know about Bethany... and I was not about to spill my guts. At that Moment I was flooded with beautiful memories of Bethany and me on Myrtle Beach... of her in my arms as we watched the sun set. It was the night before everything went wrong.

It was the last time I held anyone in my arms. I'd buried my parents. My younger sister was just exiting college in Connecticut. All I had was my skills online and the Suit... which kept me connected as well and separated.

"Why do you think she's going back to bondage? You have read her history?"

"Yes I have... and I cannot tell you why. I can tell you why I think she's willing to do it, but I'm not sure you're ready for the answer."

"Try me," I growled softly.

"She's willing to go back because of you. You've done everything a knight in shining armor is supposed to do... and for some Submissives... people like you are fantasies. You don't exist. If you accept the Bondage then you're just like every other Male in her life. Normalcy restored."

Damn. Just like that Mindy's opinion slid into place neat as you please... and I had the Feeling that her answer was as dead on as I was going to get without actually asking Ashley.

"So... by being me... being the Nice Guy..."

"You violate her sense of things. You didn't charge her for the extra things you did. You even made it clear you were doing them to help... you did everything right and in doing so..."

"That makes sense... but it's hard to swallow."

"The Truth often is."

She started playing with herself again... this time running her hands over her nipples. Now that I had a plausible answer to my question... what next? I'd already decided to go through with the thing. "Pity there isn't a hero's version to the Lifestyle."

"There... is..." Mindy breathed. Her tone went straight to my crotch; the boner sprang up so quickly it actually hurt!

"Stop that," I growled. Mindy gasped... but her hands slid to her side. I looked into her eyes.

She looked like a cross between a scolded puppy and a pissed kid standing in the corner. What I did not see was any sexual arousal. Not one glimmer echoed in her gaze... just that I've-been-bad look plastered on her face and stiffening her posture.

"What is this Hero's Version? You're here to help me through this... so help."

"He was right; you are a natural. That voice you used just then."

I thought about it. The only thing I heard in my voice was annoyance. I know she is a compulsive masturbator but I needed her head in the Game. I had to get ready... for Ashley.

"You are Scratch's sister. Honor dictates I don't lay a finger on you... so I won't. So you'll have to make do with your fingers only. I don't keep sex toys. Until the truck leave you are here to help me with getting through this."

"I understand," she said... with a submissive lilt that pleased me... and shifted my thoughts to my still hard penis. I willed the urge away; I still had to discover how to be a Hero and still go through with a bondage scene with Ashley.

"Now... begin at the beginning."

* * * *

"Greetings from the Big Easy!"

"HEY! I figured you'd call; Mindy's safe and back..."

"I know. I'm calling to see how you're doing."

"Better."

"You can always back out..."

"Not with my Honor in tack. Besides... Mindy says I need to do this."

"Really? That's not like her."

"Yeah. When I escorted her back home she told me: Learn everything you can about yourself. It will help you later."

"Nice. So... when is this going down?"

"Won't be long. Her ex-husband is in serious trouble with the cops snooping around his private life. It's only luck no one's found any of those sex tapes."

"Luck my eye; in order to keep them out of the news and courts he's destroyed the originals and the hardware. Too bad he didn't build the system himself... and the guy who installed the cameras is a burn-out meth addict running from the cops in Vegas."

"You've been busy," I chuckled.

"So has baby's mama. I just managed to get ahead of the private eyeball she placed to track who installed the outside security system. From there... it was just a matter of time before Ashley got wind of her activities."

And the data Scratch had somehow found its way into Ashley's hands; he is definitely not someone to cross.

"Oh... you may also wanna know that I let it slip that I was working for you."

"WHAT?!?!?"

"Relax. Mindy told me about your Version of things. I like it. Use everything at your fingertips for this one Gooder. And... trust me."

After my conversation I activated my monitors. Ashley was in the kitchen, still dressed for the court room or office.

* * * *

"Celebrating?"

"Alone... unless you care to join me."

"Think it's safe?"

"You tell me. Thank you by the way."

"Like I said... I want to help."

"I know... I'm sorry..."

"All is forgiven. But I still have my Word to honor... and you have payment to render."

Devoid of Emotion the Human Voice is a terrifying Weapon. {Hitman – Frozen Words}

"Indeed."

"And as to the bondage... I have one condition: it goes down My Way."

"I... see."

"Go to your computer; I have a brief description of My Way." There was a slight amusement to my words... that was not as fake as I wished it sounded.

Anticipation of the Kill... orgasmic Bliss... the Instant before the call to Battle splits the air. These are Moments when Man tosses away Humanity... for something more Primal {Call of the Beast}

"In the mean time I'll be in Black Mode. Drop me email or chat."

"Does it still..."

"I have my Reasons. Be Safe Ashley... and get plenty of Rest."

There. A voice inside my head kept screaming at me to take what little money I had and run. I could forge a new identity easily. I took a deep breath... before placing one last call.

* * * *

"Nervous?"

"Were you nervous your first time?"

"Very much so." I smiled at the soft chuckle.

"I still don't know if it will work though; In my efforts to get out I didn't study her enough to know if I have a shot of pulling this off. And I suck at Human programming."

"No different than a computer: the problem is in translation and proper coding. Be Safe Do-Gooder."

~~~~~~~~

Skills – Lock Picking

~~~~~~~~

As far as everyone else was concerned I was at Ashley's because of the mess her ex-husband left. Once word got out about the possibility of a sex tape... everyone wondered if he'd wired his home. After all... he had six cameras outside the place; the inside had to be equally scrutinized. Enter her friend and part-time tech wiz... ME. If anyone bothered to wonder why I was there the entire weekend, sex would be only one of the Gossip Topics. The main one: what did I find; that would probably get me some stares and a few false offers of something akin to civility.

The best thing about this... is that I don't have to say shit. I don't have to put the bug into anyone's ear. All I have to do is shut my trap and look innocent and it will blow over. Never away; I'm not that fortunate. Still... it helps that I have a ready-made cover story for my lengthy stay at her home.

I parked in the garage. Before the door fully sealed me away from prying eyes I popped the trunk... so that any stray eyes would see the two massive computer towers inside. Only one was functional; the other is a smuggling front I've used on occasion. Tonight it holds a different technology. I listened to the garage door close... and the silent click as the lock engaged.

I exited my car, taking the black backpack with me before closing the door. I left the trunk open; there would be several trips necessary. I smiled quietly; I don't think Ashley would understand it if Mindy was there to help me set up. Sure I could wing it... but her connection to Smoke is well known... and Smoke is an utter mystery to the Locals. I honor his request because of what I know... and don't know... about the happenings inside his Home.

The last thing Ashley needs is a connection to him. No one knows about my meetings with the elderly black man outside of Pack... and I rather like it that way. I hear the door open, turn and smile.

"Welcome to my home," she said. She sounded more than Happy... beyond relieved. There was also a dark undertone to her Words. I would have missed it without my Lessons.

"Congratulations," I replied with a bow. "I'll be inside in a moment."

"Need a hand?"

* * * *

"Two meetings... people will talk Lord Smoke."

"Drop the honorific... Do-Gooder," he chuckled. "I understand you have a request for me?"

I gave him the list, taking a deep breath before doing so. You'd think I'd be less nervous about handing a not-quite stranger a list of sex toys and other such trinkets considering what I was planning to do with Ashley. Smoke glanced at the list once... only once. He then placed it on his desk, face down. The desk glowed for a moment.

"Sweet!! Who made it?"

"You are not the only techno-geek in the Pack Do-Gooder. I have some items that many manufacturers would kill to get their mits on. Take this... " He pressed the surface of his desk and a blue square winked on/off. A minute later one of his Servants entered the Office.

"This is Nancy. Please show him your Pager."

She lifted up her maid's skirt. It looked like... an alligator clip attached to her clit!!

"Here are the tech-specs: it's attached to her clitoris with a spring mechanism tailor made to ensure a snug fit without any pain and minimal slippage. That piece is connected to another that is inside of her vagina. That piece vibrates and has a specially designed area that rests against her G-Spot... again tailor designed for her body.

"She chose the name: her Pager."

"And she comes when called." I groaned at the rude joke. She smiled slightly. "It's controlled by your desk... and I'd bet you can do more than just... summon her."

"Always polite; indeed I can do more. Much more." His tone dropped. It became colder... dark without any trace of Humanity... including cruelty. His fingers slid over his desk. I watched as Nancy struggled to maintain composure while being stimulated.

* * * *

After everything was inside and in her bedroom I sat down for about ten minutes. WE sat down; Ashley remained quiet, constantly searching my eyes and posture for any sign of what was to happen.

"What's for dinner?" I asked softly.

"Lobster. May I ask you a question?"

"Shoot."

"How long... have you..."

"Been in the Lifestyle? You will be my first. Though I'll bet my description says otherwise." She nodded slowly. Her face was twisted in confusion; I was peaking in a most un-Dominant tone.

"Are you cooking the lobster or..."

"Just waiting on you."

"Are YOU having second thoughts?" While I was somewhat hopeful that was the case... I'd hate to drag that gear back downstairs.

She smiled. Coy. Definitely surprised. "It's not what I would have expected from you."

"And what did you expect from me Ashley." This time there was an edge to my Words. It was Honest... which frightened me a bit; it was also slightly angry. I closed my eyes... then opened them... slowly.

* * * *

The All Seeing Eye of Ra cannot be deceived. The All Seeing Eye of Ra cannot be blinded by Lies and Treachery and Betrayal. The All Seeing Eye of Ra is lidless... and never slumbers.

I was looking at Ashley with my so-called skill. I was expecting nothing to happen; Ashley went rigid for a moment then sat back in her chair. Her face was obviously concerned by what her eyes told her about my appearance.

The Form is the First Sight beheld. On occasion it reflects what lies Within. Know them as separate Things.

"Does it matter?" she asked quietly. Her words were strong, but I Heard the tremble within her vocal Tones.

"I am here to Honor our deal... one that was not necessary. That being said... I have no intention of restraining you physically unless you tell me here and now... why."

An Honest Man speaks with venomous Tones only when the Words strike a nerve... and this Fact is Known to the Speaker. It is not cruelty that fuels such Speech... it is the Honest Man revealing the True Nature and Danger of his Words.

"You mean... why Bondage. That... is something I haven't told anyone in many years."

"And yet you Trust me with the Act... if not the Why Behind. I still don't know why... but I will before I leave on Sunday. Right now... that lobster sounds good."

Steamed Maine lobster tail with drawn butter, sautéed zucchini with garlic and roasted red potatoes; it was definitely a meal that required wine. Too bad I forbid it... for now. A Clear Mind yields Excuses only for those without caring.

* * * *

"Would you have let me seduce you?"

"I'm not sure if let is the word for it. But considering you are an attractive Woman... yeah." I rolled a lobster morsel around my mouth before chewing it

"You went for the pressure because you were afraid I'd do... what?"

"Fear does strange things to a person."

"And you do not fear me." Her eyes narrowed slightly... a sure sign that a Lie was on her lips. Before she could speak I nodded.

"To be honest... I'm spooked. It took me some time to put My Version together."

"Why did you search so hard to find a way around..."

"Because I know you need it... for whatever Reason. I gave my word to help and I will. Sometimes that means walking through some dark places.

"But you're worth it." I lifted my eyes as I said this. When my gaze fell on Ashley I was amazed... at how sorrowful she appeared.

* * * *

It's called Play... a standard BDSM Session. When Mindy told me that, my first reaction was to scream, "Some game." I didn't understand what she was trying to teach me until that Moment.

Some games are very real. For Ashley Bondage was tried to dam near every fiber of her Life. From her past to the sleazy ex-husband... to me; as hideous as it sounded to my sensibilities... she would find some way to twist even the most innocent things into something tainted by her being bound to another's will.

However... I changed that. I didn't mean to; all I wanted was to give her an out that wasn't so... violent. Chains and restraints... whips... and the inevitable screams; I wasn't ready for that and was fairly sure I'd never be ready or willing. So I took the time to formulate my own Version... one that was free of any traditional bonds. All I required... was that she Follow the Rules. And if not... the Session would be over... Deal Done. No physical torture... only Mental and Spiritual.

I'd changed the game by removing what she'd always known... stripping her of what little comfort those things gave her. Now... the only thing keeping her there... was her own will. Fifty plus years of surviving and living... fifty plus years of Rules she Understood... gone because I thought I knew how to help her.

"No one has ever said that to me," she replied quietly.

"It does not take Strength to knock someone or something down... only Power. It takes Strength... True Strength... to get back up." I rose from the table. Made my way to wards Ashley and came to a stop behind her.

"Finish your meal Ashley," I whispered into her ear... as my hands slid around her shoulders... heading for her firm breasts.

* * * *

Mindy asked why I was single... a very direct and complicated Question... with no real answer. I'd gone out on dates when it was necessary to maintain the possible air of Humanity. They were all good dates and ended with me in my home solo. After Bethany I wasn't so sure I was ready for sexual contact that wasn't drenched in Passion and True Love.

Enter Scratch and the French Quarter; he took me to a few strip clubs and eventually I fell victim to the plethora of booze and sensual curves. Her stage name is Monica. I say 'is' because I keep in touch with her. She has a kid just now entering college... with a head dead set on going to medical school. After that I was a bit more casual. I still maintained a Professional Distance from Females though; I wasn't ready to be in a relationship.




Dark Seduction - Skillful Descent



"Bullshit. You're more than ready... you just don't want to be hurt again."

"Like anyone really does," I replied dryly.

"Then why not just say so?"

Because I didn't know why Bethany dumped me... that's why. I know it's silly and childish, but to go from our three year anniversary to the next day just up and moving out. No reason was given other than, "It just won't work."

"Was she cheating on you?"

"I don't think so," was my reply. I'd spent countless hours asking that same question and reviewing my memories. Plenty of tears and some dangerous Moments... but my Gut said Bethany was faithful

"That will haunt you. It will make things with Ashley difficult."

"You mean transference... right?"

"Big word."

Big... but all too true. No matter how it went down this was a very personal experience for Ashley and me.

* * * *

After finishing her meal I escorted her to her bedroom. I'd seen the place up close before... and smiled quietly. My simulations came in handy; I knew where every camera was placed and was toying with putting together a high quality porno from the session... just for kicks.

"You don't have any sex toys... do you."

"I was afraid he would find out somehow," she chuckled softly. "Now you understand why I played with myself when I knew the cameras were denied to him... sexual frustration. Even we old biddies get it."

"So I noticed," I replied with a gentle laugh. I made my way to one of the two false computers. I removed the front panel.

"Then consider these a gift from a friend... your first toy collection."

I'm not sure what I expected... certainly not childish giddy squeals of joy as she dove into my chosen array. I was not at all surprised that she went silent upon seeing the anal section. With the case on the floor Ashley was kneeling. Standing over her and to her left I watched as she gingerly fingered the neon purple latex anal sting. The largest bulb was no thicker than my middle finger... but the look in her eyes gave it another ten miles of girth.

"Have you every done anal?"

"That..."

"Is complicated. I see." She turned to face me, her eyes searching for something. I met her gaze evenly.

"Let me tell you a Theory. You had an abusive relationship before this joker. Physically abusive. I don't know the details... but if your choice of... rewards... is an indication then I know quite a bit.

"Ashley... I am here to collect on payment... and help a friend. In doing so... you will most likely experience some very bad memories. If my tone offends you... I don't care; I am not about to have you enter into anything blindly."

"It was Punishment." The words ended in a rush of relief... as if a great burden was suddenly lifted from her shoulders. I watched her physically shrink... yet remained motionless.

"That was then. Now?" She remained silent.

"We will answer that together then."

* * * *

"I like your plan... but it won't work."

"Why not?"

"Because you are not addressing the real problem. What do you think will happen after she goes through with this?"

I opened my mouth to speak, but didn't. I'd never thought about it... not once. Now that I was... I was not at all happy with where my Thoughts were drifting. Mindy nodded gravely as Understanding slowly dawned: I was going to do more harm than good if I accepted this... and then just walked away thinking that was the Be-All-End-All.

"You are the nicest guy in the Universe... a genuine Do-Gooder. If she falls..."

"I get the point. So... do I scrap all of that work?"

"No. Just be yourself and wing the parts I've marked. You'll be fine... if..."

"If? If... what?"

* * * *

"Stand up."

Ashley rises slowly. After taking a Moment to gather herself mentally he lifts her head.

"Together... or I walk. Compliance."

"Understood... sir."

I cringed slightly; her tone was cold and her words clipped. I walked behind her and began removing her clothes. I left her wearing sheer nylon hose... complete with the line running up the back of her legs and the reinforced toe. I placed her clothes in the hamper before returning to her.

"Together... or I walk. Compliance."

She began to speak. My fingers sliding along her things tore a catch in her cadence.

I fell into the Moment. She smelled of a recent shower, sexual frustration... and something else. I inhaled that Scent, plastering my face between the backs of her thighs. There... just beneath that slightly funked-out rear exit smell that was...

"You took an enema. When?"

"Earlier... after I got word that my ex-husband got arrested: perjury." She was obviously pleased. So was I; he deserved to be in Pound-Me-In-The-Ass Federal prison... in my opinion. Best place for Ashley... that much is certain. It also meant that something else I'd been tinkering with was going to be easier... and then it hit me. Suddenly I had the perfect tool.

"Sweet. Now then... how about helping me get undressed."

It wasn't planned as a stall. In fact I was looking forward to having an attractive older woman strip me bare. Unfortunately I was Planning... and the distraction threatened to show on my face. Right then I wanted to be at my home... specifically in the Crucible. To cover up I asked, "Did you enjoy the experience?"

"In a way." She was staring at my member... which refused to fall in line with my Tech thoughts; it wanted Action and let it be known. I was actually surprised by its length and girth. Her stare... was blank.

"I take it I'm bigger than the Jail-bird," I chuckled.

"I have only seen one like it... and that was in a porno movie."

"You've watched porn?" Yes it sounded childish, so her quick glance and amused expression were Normal. However... I was more interested in the Timing of the matter. She nodded... and I lowered my Tone as I asked, "When?" Instead of a kid's curiosity... there was the Learned Face.

* * * *

"I can tell when you've learned something new."

"How?"

"Your eyes... they start twitching... like they are trying to see too much information at once. It's interesting to watch your Mind make the Connections. It's... bothersome... that you push the Human parts of the equation into the rear so forcefully."

"Why does it bother you Mindy?"

"Because you still carry that ache in your heart. Because you can't... or won't... let it go."

* * * *

I learned one thing from Ashley's first Confession: her first lover had a small dick. It drove their Sessions... with him constantly humiliating her... claiming he could hear her lusting for one of those larger slices of manhood. That was her only exposure to porn... and one of the Reasons she despised it to this day.

There was something else... something I doubt she'd admit. Jail-bird helped her get over some of her aversion. His constant cheating had her scrambling for proof. His skill kept her guessing... and she had to learn more about what Normal Men looked for. Eventually it lead her to those so-called educational erotic movies intended to help lovers spice up their sex lives. She avoided any that had restraints of any form... even furry handcuffs.

As we talked I pulled her onto her bed. Back against the head rest I held her and listened as she told her Tale. I did not say one single word... I simply listened. Before long I had her version of her past. There were still holes... places where Shame or Fear held her tongue and Thoughts, but through it all I got a good picture of how things went down.

Yes... I was stroking her arms and whatever. I even had a nice long feel of those nylon clad legs. I didn't play with her nipples much; I'm not a breast man. And my ministrations were equal parts soothing massage... and getting to know Ashley intimately.

"May I ask you something?" She spoke softly, almost timid. I hummed an affirmative.

"How many women have you slept with?"

* * * *

I chuckled... then started laughing. That particular question pulled up one of my first Memories of Scratch. He'd asked that same question... then went on to explain himself:

I don't mean that literally; telling a female good-night then passing out without so much as a kiss doesn't cut it. I'm talking about the Horizontal Shuffle... Bumping Uglies... Doing the Nasty.

I explained my outburst before giving her the number: three and her makes four. That caught her off guard; she rolled around until she straddled my crotch, pinning my boner between us. After looking down with the Devil in her eyes I said, "Now... ask me how many women I've had sexual contact with... and that number goes up."

She adjusted herself; it did not mask her, "Ah..." as her outer lips splayed across my member. The nylon fabric had me in all sorts of Fantasy mindsets... and I struggled to maintain some control. I got help from her features; they were beginning to melt into bliss bloated joy.

"Did he spank you?" She paused. I gripped her rear end and forced her to move. "I did not say stop... now answer the question Miss." I punctuated her Title with a well timed... and accidentally accurate thrust. The tip of my dick found her clit and ran directly into it... then shot up the nylon sheath.

"nnnYES SIR!!" She gripped my shoulders as the unexpected orgasm rumbled through her. I felt her sex pulsate.

I also Felt something else... a strange Power flowed through every fiber. My eyes snapped onto her shuddering form as I wondered where her orgasm came from. I tried not to allow any ego to cloud my judgment... but when Ashley's gaze fell onto mine and I witness the Fragmenting... there was no denying it. Accident or not... I'd done something no one else had... something she probably only heard in the whispered gossip from the tellers at her bank branch.

I tried. I tried... and failed.

That Felt GOOD!!!!!!!!

INTERLUDE:

I left his place as I'd found it. Gooder's forgotten all about my presence... though he'll be remembering soon enough. He didn't blow his load... and that will only make things worse.

Right down the line he performed as expected... much to Ashley's obvious surprise. If she expected him to be somewhat experienced then... now she knew she was probably in over her head. He kept surprising her... he kept her off balance. And each time she found her footing... she was closer and closer to trusting him with her darkest secrets. Even better... he kept the sexual play to a bare minimum... and that tore a massive orgasm from somewhere deep inside.

When she burned her gaze into his... demanding his dick inside her... I had a feeling that MAYBE he'd grant her wish. Then I saw the Look on his face. He'd tasted the Power of her Trust in him... not something many ever experience. Those who do... can and often do abuse that Trust. I wasn't interested in whether or not he gave in; he would. Ashley wouldn't let him leave without giving her the High Hard One now... and he'd done it without restraining her physically.

What happens when she grows accustomed to that Sensation... THAT is what I wanted to know. Gooder was going to Have Sex with her tonight. He may even get into some Rough Sex if he's inclined. He'll slip into her back Door tonight as well. I know this because we set it up that way. Clean and Sober... there would be no Excuses. What I did NOT expect was to see him manipulate her into a Frozen Orgasm.

Then again... he is very skillful. He learns quickly... and adjusts instantly. And in the End... he will question himself. He will fall into Solitude... searching for answers as to why he enjoyed himself. I Trust Do-Gooder.

Ashley is another matter. If she hadn't tried to force him into this I wouldn't even be inside his home... a second pair of eyes just in case she pulled something on him. I suggested it simply as a precaution. I wasn't expecting him to agree... especially so readily.

I've spent so much time trying to figure out how I'm gonna make it through this that it never occurred to me that she might pull a fast one. Guess I figured ex-hubby held her full attention. But... in case she has just enough time to plot a double-cross... it would be prudent to have a backup plan.

He didn't believe for one second she would cross him. Still... he wasn't about to be caught a second time.

~~~~~~~~

Skills - Transactions

~~~~~~~~

She wants more.

Deny her. She has not Proven herself yet.

What about her Tale?

That is something indeed... but she stole her Pleasure.

I gave it to her.

There is mettle in your Tone. Good; I was beginning to worry.

You care for her. This is a Good Thing. You would not harm her. THAT is a Good Thing. You seek to Think your way out of this... 

Why do you hesitate now?

Slap her ass... but put no Human Emotion into the action. Start by caressing her ass.

She's aggressive.

And that would be Anger you're Feeling. Look into her eyes; she's given in to Lust. Easily I might add. Frustration accounts for much... but not that much... and you Know this. Stop her... now.

* * * *

That Sound; it tickled something deep inside my chest. Ashley yelped in surprise and looked at me. There was some warning in her gaze.

I met it evenly, though I wasn't Looking at Ashley. My Thoughts lingered on the Sound as I met her gaze. Eventually a dark shadow slid across her gaze and she lowered her eyes.

* * * *

She was poorly Trained.

I don't think she was properly Trained at all... just coerced.

I am impressed by your Reaction.

What was that? I don't mean the slap on her ass... I mean that Sound.

* * * *

From deep within the Darkness... coiled in one dark corner of Nothing. The Beast Within slumbers there... waiting for a sign. A Scent on the wind... or a Sound reverberating from walls and ceiling and floor... or perhaps all that is necessary is a stray Thought. Once it wakes... it must Feed. And its Hunger can overwhelm the strongest Man.

"There is no need to rush," I say softly. I am stunned by the darkly seductive Tone that leaves my lips... mostly because it rumbles through my entire body. I feel more Alive than ever before.

I drag my fingers over the offended area. She tenses... and I Sense her anticipation of another blow.

Nothing escapes the keen Senses the Beast possesses.

I adjusted my hips slight; the movement pressed the tip of my member against her shielded slit. This time she remained motionless as I teased her. My eyes never left her face. I watched as her struggle slowly gave way to blissful surrender.

"Cum for me." I do not ask. Nor are my words demanding... I feel a dark satisfaction as she moves again. This time her movements lack a certain natural grace; they are the barely restrained frantic movements of a Woman so painfully close to orgasm.

As for my own obvious pleasure... I was more interested in watching Ashley... gathering Data. "Cum for me." This time there was a slightly dark annoyance to my words... one I normally use when dealing with... particularly difficult Code.

* * * *

Humanity does not like to Think on this Truth, but like their precious technology... they can be Programmed. Controlled by words and actions not their own Humanity does not want to Remember or Know; there are some who want, crave, Need... and even Desire such Control.

It was obvious that she hated wearing the nylons. They were a side note personally; my sole Focus was on Ashley's effort to reach orgasm. She looked up... and we locked gazes.

"Cum... for me." My tone was light... and the smile was genuine. She slid down... and the tip found her covered clit once again. She shuddered. Forcing her eyes to remain open she fell into her orgasm.

Again that sensation washed over my body. This time it filled my Thoughts as well. It had been some time since my last sexual encounter... and it was breathing compared to... this. For an instant I wondered if this is what Bethany was missing...

What I did not give her... because I didn't ask. I just assumed I was doing a good job in bed. Was I?

Ashley kissed the side of my neck. I tensed... then her tongue slithered out.

* * * *

That is the Howl of the Beast pulsing through your veins. If you let it wrest control from your grasp... you will be little more than the dogs Females of your Kind claim you to be. You will be Instinct... and Primal.

I forced myself... not to become a slavering idiot. It took several seconds... and... something took its place.

"Careful," I growled.

"Please..."

Music? That is a Human Thought... and a Dark Thought.

"Anal first." It was a desperate ploy... only there was no desperation in my Tone.

There was... cunning.

* * * *

"Business before pleasure?" she chuckled dryly.

"You learn quickly," was my immediate reply. The dark undertone began to feel comfortable sliding from my chest. I glanced quickly at the placement of the opened tower... and smiled at my memory. She could reach it from where she was... if she crawled.

As she turned I said, "You might want to grab the lube." I caught sight of her head turning around to look at me; I kept my eyes on her rear.

Business before Pleasure. Biz... Never Personal. I caught sight of Ashley looking at me, so the slight shift in her crawl was expected. And I do admit that I was utterly distracted by the way the fabric stretch in its attempt to cover her ample rear. However, in my Thoughts there was an image of the open terminal and its contents. I ran over a list of the items... including the ones she's slightly misplaced.

As she reached for the lubricant I quietly said, "And the purple and black vibrator to the left." It was slender... barely thick enough for the miniature motor that ran it. Definitely thinner than my girth, it would serve nicely.

"May I go to the bathroom first Sir?"

* * * *

I answered immediately... but that does not quite tell the entire story. In that Instant an Image of her bathroom filled my Thoughts. Specifically... my Thoughts drifted to the one camera with a view of her urinating. Questions flooded my Mind as she made her way off the bed... and I followed. She looked askance at me. I returned her gaze with a cool look that I was amazed to find was True.

I watched her remove the hose to the required height, squat over the pisser... and hold that position.

"Afraid of your own toilet?" I chuckled softly. She joined me, sitting fully on the seat. I stepped back until I could get a clear view.

"He had a similar view... though aerial," I said. This time my Tone was one more familiar when I'm working on Code. "I always wondered why?"

"I don't like being watched going to the bathroom... even when I'm showering."

"You never showered with him?" She shook her head, a proud smirk pulling at her lips slightly... until she remembered the camera.

"I see. So... does it bother you that I am watching?"

"Yes... and no." Right then I heard the sound of her urine splashing against the ceramic innards of her toilet. When the sound died she reached for the toilet paper.

"Stop."

She complied... and Fear slid into her Features, obliterating everything save Humiliation. She actually swallowed hard. I moved smoothly towards her... and unfurled a length. Her breathing increased dramatically... so much so that I could actually Smell her apprehension... and an image of her as she would have appeared during her first disastrous Relationship crept into my Mind.

I wiped her carefully. It was easier than I expected... though why I expected it to be difficult at all bothered me somewhat. How many times had I wiped my own ass? And I'm fairly sure my Mother and Father have done the same tome at LEAST once in my existence.




Dark Seduction - Skillful Descent



That's it!!! The Thoughts hit me like a physical blow as my Thoughts suddenly drifted away from sex... and to discovering why she had a thing about someone watching her go to the bathroom. Ashley even gave me a clue... by blushing as she choked back her apprehension and Fear... and choked a Memory into submission.

In some ways you are correct; People are very much like your Computers. They are easily Programmed... and the Code is not always perfect... or benign.

"There. Now... I think you can remove the hose totally."

"Yes Sir." I backed up enough to allow her room to remove the nylons.

Impressive; the Howl does not fill you with energy. Interesting... that there is Cold and Nothing in your Essence.

* * * *

I placed a thick towel on top of the comforter. Standing aside as she crawled into position, her ass facing me, I was strangely calm. I had attempted anal before; this time I was guaranteed the act. I wasn't anxious or nervous. I was... Cold.

I began by gently caressing her rear end. It wasn't long before my hands drifted to other parts. When my dick touched her outer labia she finally moved, adjusting herself with the full intention of forcing me inside her sex.

The blow fell immediately. For an instant I was annoyed... then Ashley's utterance registered: she was in Pain... but there was a thickly aroused undertone to the end as she gasped.

She will try your patience. Just like any good computer problem; I smiled quietly as I said, "Behave yourself. You have yet to see what is within the other computer."

Ashley turned her gaze to the still sealed terminal. I move away from her... and pressed my palms into her rear... spreading her wide. She gasps as I slide my fingers along her crevasse. There is a faint urine after-funk... but it doesn't bother me. It doesn't excite me either... I calmly file it away... just another piece of information.

"You gave yourself the enema... so I will assume you have tried to prepare for this."

"Yes Sir," she replied.

"Did you enjoy yourself?"

"Not always." Her reply gave me pause

"Well then... here's the Deal. I am going to do this. I will be the judge of what qualifies as Sealed Deal... so any pain must be endured until then. However... I won't be a brute about it."

She Needs to hear you say it. Look; even now her body relaxes into Lust's embrace. And her Trust in you grows stronger still.

I massaged her crotch and taint. I smiled as I recalled my father's discussion about that part of the Human anatomy. Strange that you Think on him at this Moment. Strange... and Honorable; he Taught you many things about Life and much about Love. Heed his teachings now. I rolled the tip of one finger against her clit until it stuck out.

And it stuck out!! Before my eyes stood the most prominent clit I'd ever seen. I couldn't help but continue fingering it as I burned its image into Memory.

"He was intimidated by this... your Ex-Husband. Don't answer; I'm just Thinking. It makes sense. And it's sensitive. Did your other torment it?"

"No Sir."

"Because you like it..." came a breathed reply from somewhere deep within my chest. The images in my Mind were obliterated by a white light as I slowly increased the pressure as I pinched her clit. Hard. Harder. HARDER!

With a yelp she jerked away. My ears tingled at the sounds Ashley made; they were pure Bliss. I Knew them... though I'd never heard them before. Not even from Bethany. I gave her a long Ten-Count to return to the Doggy-Style position. She made it easily... though it was obvious that there was something different about her. Something wasn't there... and her body was infinitely more relaxed.

Fascinated, I took the lubricant in my left hand and pressed the middle finger, right hand, against her asshole. She tensed... as expected. Then she relaxed. I pressed further; Ashley's breathing became very measured. My brow furrowed as I experienced a strange moisture. My last foray here was with a dry... then I remembered; flicking open the tube I applied a small amount to her rear end. She yelped.

"COLD!!!" I chuckled and slowly rotated the invading digit. Soon I was easily able to slide the entire finger into her... and was pleased at her reaction.

Ashley's breathing slowed and deepened. I'd chosen the lube based on Mindy's sick suggestion that I might actually want to stick my tongue there. Were it not for the urine... I amazed myself that I would actually give it a try. After all... there was only the record in my home and the memories we would share.

What of your Guardian? I smiled as I positioned between her legs. Scratch would be long gone by now if I knew the Old Man. I stroked myself to what I guess would be just hard enough to survive the initial push. I touched the tip against her slightly puckered entrance... and paused.

It was an entirely different experience. Inch by inch is the description most commonly placed on being gentle... and I understand why. I listened to Ashley... I watched her reaction. At the slightest sign of pain I stopped. Then... one of those Moments came with these words:

"Cumming again..." Amazed... I flexed inside her nether entrance. Ashley gulped loudly... and arched just the right way; it was an instinctive movement: I pushed deeper.

She sounded like she was gagging... and I slowed to a stop... or tried. After a slight pause she impaled herself a bit more. The sensations washed away all thoughts as I slid into a natural, easy motion: In...Out. I felt my orgasm storming the Horizon... just as my thrusts were full crotch-to-ass-cheek, vulgar and rude Ass-Pounding Sex.

I pressed her into the mattress.

Careful.

Her eyes screwed shut Ashley muttered, "God... God... God..."

"Tell me to stop," I snarled... gleefully.

"NEVER!" she growled. Ashley dug her nails into the comforter and arched her back.

She refuses to Yield because she enjoys this. What will you do?

One hand on her shoulder... the other gripping a tit like a beast possessed I Fucked Ashley's asshole with primal power, fury and passion. My orgasm registered on multiple Levels... and I heard Ashley's howl as my semen coated her bowels.

And... I could not deny it. I looked down on Ashley with eyes that enjoyed watching her shudder in the throes of her orgasmic over-stimulation. I enjoyed the sobs as she struggled for air. I basked in her slow gaze that drifted over my eyes... and her trusting smile as Oblivion claimed her.

Then... I was horrified. What had I become?

* * * *

Never be too proud to accept back-up. I called Scratch in a near panic, rapidly explaining... or at least trying to explain... what I felt.

"Well... what did you expect? Zero pleasure?

"Look... from now on you take a drink or two before a Session... and keep clear of restraints in the process. It's Strictly Biz from here on out."

"I enjoyed it... everything."

"I know."

"You sound Sad."

"Actually... I'm thinking about something you said. You saw her trust in you grow. Yet you clearly remember... not looking Human. Well... that just means you're a Freak like the rest of the Pack."

I wanted to give a snappy comeback. However... looking at Ashley's sleeping form via the laptop monitor in the living room... I had to admit that Scratch may have a point.

"Made any progress on getting info on her Past?"

"Yeah... I've got a few things I want you to check out: her parents. Specifically... check into domestic violence issues."

"Now you're sounding like me... definitely a Freak. Now go... and enjoy yourself. Oh... there is something that you may want to hold up in your bag-of-tricks. I dropped a surprise in your backpack hidey-hole."

"For me?"

"Just... remember when I told you about Papa Joe's." With that the line went dead. My stomach dropped and I made my way to my backpack. Tucked inside that secret compartment he designed was a large baggie of marijuana and a small glass pipe. I noticed that it was silvery... Ashley's favorite color.

Scratch knows people. I let my gaze drift to Ashley's sleeping body. It was punishment... now it was something different. I Saw that in her Eyes... in that easy, satisfied smiled as I stood over her.

* * * *

I awoke before Ashley. Instantly I stared planning my day... and was well into lunch plans when I finally forced myself to just roll out of bed. Ashley moaned briefly and I checked my movements. It had been ages since I'd slept with someone... literally. Getting used to her body movements wasn't something I really wanted to accomplish. It smacked of a Long-Term Relationship. And I wasn't at all sure I wanted something like what happened last night.

Papa Joe's. The Lesson there: sometimes people need a Blind. Just something to hold up as a nice excuse for doing something they really wanted to do bone-sober. My thoughts slid to the drug and the pipe... and I wondered what made Scratch believe Ashley would want it. I blinked... and smiled. I'd planned the second Day to fall on her birthday. 55... and the sick joke actually made me chuckle. Some birthday gift... and I had plenty more where that came from.

When she rose I greeted her with a smile.

"I think I need another enema," she chuckled/moaned.

"Agreed," I laughed. "Come on. I know you never showered with him but you will with me."

"Yes Sir," she said... with a disturbingly satisfied moan.

"Oh... and Happy Birthday."

~~~~~~~~

Skills – Word Problems

~~~~~~~~

She'd almost forgotten; it stunned me that she was so wrapped up in things that she'd forgotten her own birthday. I filed that away as I set about giving her a hug. Ashley wrapped her arms around me and began caressing my back and shoulders. She wasn't trying to seduce me. My hard-on was just a Natural Reaction.

It was the Way she touched me that I found... disturbing. Tender, caring touches here and there. She's trying to find those Spots... be careful. She is very cunning... even if her actions are Natural. Especially if they are Natural.

"What would you like to do today?"

"Well... I'm not sure how you're going to react to this."

I nodded, keeping my face screwed up. How did Scratch know she smoked marijuana?

"I want to be bad all day long."

* * * *

Ashley was serious when she spoke, so I met her with an even gaze before I said, "Explain."

With that she reached beneath her bed. I heard a soft click, followed by a scuffing sound. I waited for her to open the slender tube. When the joint slid from its confines I caught sight of a slightly distant look in her eyes.

"I see. How long have you hidden that from your Ex-husband?"

"He's never found out. I confine this only to my birthday...."

"And another Special occasion. I can see the Memory in your eyes. I can also see Doubt; you worry that I'll think less of you."

Well... if it were any other situation I might. However... considering what I did last night... all bets were off.

"Have you ever..."

"I attended my fair share of wild college parties. Yes I have smoked pot... and enjoyed it. I don't now because it became bothersome to code while stoned."

Ashley chuckled, though she was surprised by my words. She went to light up but I raised one hand.

"Is that it? You just want to be stoned all day long?" I raised one eyebrow. She lowered her head slightly and a smile crept across her lips.

I told her that we would see to her Request after we showered and had breakfast. As we prepared for the shower I thought about my actions... and my reactions from last night. I was appalled by what happened... and I didn't have a Crutch... like being stoned while doing the deed. I hear the water start running and joined her in the bathroom. Ashley turned around suddenly, slightly surprised by my sudden appearance near her.

"I move silently; ready?"

I surprised her with tenderness; from washing her hair to getting between her toes I was careful and attentive. I studied her body... how the water ran down her curves. I thought about her request... to be bad all day. Bad girl... and bad Girls often get punished. I lathered her white bath poof carefully as I prepared to wash her... and Thought long and hard about those Words.

Bad Girls often get Punished. I couldn't shake the feeling that I was right to have Scratch check into any domestic issues from her formative years. Eventually she was going to be stoned. I would be near her... and most likely sober.

Yet I had one very good Excuse for getting high; I wasn't responsible for things if we're both mind-fucked and stupid. Not so for last night; I have no excuses for the fact that I enjoyed myself. I'd accepted Ashley's enjoyment sometime during the Dreaming apparently.

I finished without making any overt moves to arouse her... though it happened; I suspect it is because she hasn't allowed anyone to get this intimate and close. She turned... and her eyes were filled with something I didn't expect: nervous giddiness. It never occurred to me that with the penis' she's experienced... she's never done this before. Why makes no sense to me, but I am the first one here.

* * * *

First... I'm first for quite a few things in her Life these days. That has to leave some emotional mark... if not a nasty scar. Her hesitating tells me just how nervous she is... though there is no real reason. Except for washing my private parts. I watch as she takes great care not to hurt me... and ends up tickling me.

Don't Move. Her gaze lingers on my rapidly stiffening member. I remain motionless; she also has a hang-up about giving head. Nothing unusual there... except for her past. There are more than enough Dark Corners to hide the Reason behind her aversion... and not one place to find the Answer to one Question that exploded in my Mind... as she unfurled her tongue and slithered her mouth down nearly half of my boner.

Where does a Woman who apparently doesn't give Head or like it... learn such a trick... no... Master!?!?!?

* * * *

That is the Beast... you Remember it Well. She is Skilled... and it obeys her seductive call. Nostrils flare; Scents overwhelm you as you long to seize hold of her and Take what she offers.

And that sound... that is the Chain you call Humanity.

* * * *

Ashley wrapped her arms around my ass and slowly tried to force everything into her mouth. I marveled at her attempts... and her Learning Curve and determination. Something drove her... and I Knew it was a Dark Memory. It was also one she fought to crush... by deepthroating me.

"Stop... and tell me Why," I growled. Ashley complied to the former... and hesitated.

"They wanted it... they took it. I kept some things from my ex..."

"And all of those things... you would freely give me. I am Honored." I touched her cheek tenderly... because I really was Honored by the Truthfulness that I heard in her words and saw in her softening smile.

This time she approached the task with calm happiness that helped her relax as I slid further and further down her throat. I forced my eyes not to widen as inch by inch her attempts gobbled up more and more of my member. Orgasm on the horizon my ass; it was a full-out War to keep myself from blowing a massive load down her throat. If she didn't like blowjobs... regardless of whatever good emotions my presence gives her... what about Fresh Male Seed?

* * * *

LIKE I CARE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

* * * *

I gave no apology for losing my load down her throat. I offered no Words as I stood there, growling like some Hell-spawned demon with my hands flexing menacingly... so tight the pain only fueled the orgasmic Rush.

Nor did I grip her head in my hands and ram my crotch into her face. I did not Face Fuck Ashley... though the overwhelming NEED to do so was beyond anything Humanly possible. Even as the first taste of my Seed hit her tongue she forced her head further down until she had not choice but to come up for air. I felt her arms tighten... and her body shudder.

And... I knew that by not moving one muscle... by denying those impulses... it pleased her. It proved that I was that Creature she envisioned. That gave me Strength.

So... I stood there until the Sensations ebbed to nothing. I heard her sobbing softly as she pulled away slowly. I didn't ask about the tears... I stood there. I waited for Ashley to acknowledge me Presence. When her bleary gaze met mine it was several Moments before she spoke.

"I..."

"I am not them."

* * * *

Questions can be Answered before they are asked.

The words just rushed from my lips, and the dark power behind them was disturbing... and proper. I was nothing like her former male Lovers... despite what the urges would dictate.

What are you then?

We exited the shower. I noticed Ashley has an easier time accepting my presence... and for an instant that worried me. Even so, we quickly dried each other off before grabbing white bath robes and heading for the kitchen. I prepared breakfast; whole wheat pancakes with honey and butter optional, turkey bacon, toast, a fresh fruit salad, apple juice and milk... plus cappuccino.

As we ate I asked her to go into details about being bad. Aside from the marijuana she also wanted to drink wine, walk around buck ass naked... and have sex when and where she wanted... or wherever we happened to be. I raised an eyebrow; as far as bad things went my only real gripe comes from the weed... and that is more because it's illegal; I figured her source was solid if she managed to keep it hidden from her Ex.

I also tried to ignore my dick; it wanted a nice wet orifice. What are you? Given that her Birthday present was high-quality stuff and a nice piece of glass on top of that... I was at a loss. I know how I'll get: horny as all get out. Normally... being single meant Solo Sex or frustration. So I opted to abstain... but here and now Ashley is more than willing... in many ways.

What are you? I told Ashley to wash the dishes and clean up. I made my way to her bedroom, those Words crashing against my skull. I thought about them as I made my way to the opened computer stash. I took one of the small vibrating eggs, the lube from last night... and my eyes slid to the unopened stash.

What are you? Bad girls get punished. What are you?

I am not them. I took a steadying breath as I made my way downstairs. Pushing mid thirties and I was still asking adolescent Questions. Its Answer should be obvious... but I have never been in a situation even approaching this for complexity. And I cannot deny that I enjoyed myself completely; even the authoritative Tone was pleasing.

And when she complied... I felt a rush of satisfaction that rivaled the ones I get when slicing code. As I made my way to the kitchen I couldn't avoid the tingling that rippled through me... bleeding into the air. I looked down at my arms.

"Gotta get a black robe; it fits my mood."

* * * *

She was just finishing. I didn't realize I'd spent as much time as I had puttering and Thinking. My mind flashed to her joint... and the misplaced memory of me snatching it from its hiding place moments before leaving her bedroom. I did a quick search and found the joint in my right pocket... along with a safety lighter.

"Finished so soon?"

"It's been awhile, but I do remember how to do simple things around the home," she chuckled.

"Remove your robe." She complied after drying her hands. "I didn't say stop... just disrobe. I really must work on those Commands.

"Tell me... does it surprise you that I did things the way I did?" I passed her the joint.

"Yes."

Before she could continue I placed the vibrating egg onto the table along with the lube. Her eyes tracked the items as she went to light up.