Bara Produktions

The Arrivals

Chapter 1

When he looked again he thought saw a faint ball of blue light resting on the ground but as he looked it just faded and was gone. The nights were still chilly up here in the hills where he had chosen to find refuge. He decided to wait until dawn before checking outside.

He settled back in bed cursing the fact that he was such a light sleeper and wishing that he could have the luxury of an uninterrupted night's sleep. In spite of his misgivings he slept soundly for the next couple of hours before waking up around 7:30 A.M. He thought about dozing quietly and having a lazy morning but his thoughts came back to the flash and mysterious glowing sphere. Curiosity got the better of him so he got up, going about his morning routine with more of a sense of purpose than usual.

Instead of waiting impatiently for the coffee to warm up he went outside to look around. He stopped and stared at the sight on his lawn. Lined up on his lawn in two rows was a squad of about twenty boys with another standing in front of them. As he appeared the boy in front yelled out a command and the squad snapped to attention.

He had never been in any of the services but knew enough to see that there was something odd about the squad. They wore beige trousers tucked into boots and sleeveless open necked shirts. At a guess they were between twelve and sixteen years old.

As he cautiously approached them they remained still, staring straight ahead, not reacting to him in any way.

As he stood in front of the lead boy, the youth brought his arm up in a sharp salute and rapped out, "Sir, No. 1274 Pioneer Squad reporting as ordered, sir."

The boy continued to salute and not knowing what else to do, Sam brought his hand up to his forehead. Satisfied, the boy lowered his hand.

"OK! So what's going on?" he asked.

The boy looked confused for a moment then replied, "Sir, We reported as ordered to the transporter laboratory and stood on the platform. The transporter was activated and we waited as ordered to be told that it was safe to leave the arrival zone, sir."

The boy faltered and for a moment looked more like a nervous child than a seasoned soldier.

"Excuse me sir, but did the experiment work?" he asked, "This seems more like a farm than a science lab. Sir, you look more like a civilian than the Camp Commandant. I'm sorry sir, I'll report for punishment for speaking out of turn, if you order it, but this seems all wrong."

"We'll leave the question of punishment for later," he said, "My name is Sam Jameson and you're right, I'm a civilian. I own this place so I'm in charge until you can contact your superiors. I'm not sure I understand what's going on but I think it's going to take more than contacting the local authorities here to reach them.

"Yes sir," the boy said. "I'm Sergeant Williams. What are your orders, sir."

Sam smiled, "You look half frozen to death. There's not enough room in the house for you all, so you'd better use that shed. You'll have to sit or lie on a hard floor but you'll get some rest. If you all huddle up you feel a bit warmer. I'll see if I can rustle up some food for you."

Sam paused looking at Sergeant Williams.

"I'm not sure what's going on at the moment but I think we should prepare for the worst which means you being my guests indefinitely. At best your people know what went wrong and you'll be rescued soon."

"Yes sir," Sergeant Williams hesitated, "With your permission, sir, may I say something."

Sam nodded.

"We are Pioneers, sir. We've obeyed orders and reported for duty to the Senior Officer at our destination, sir. I know not all civilians are used to us but please don't make us feel like useless children. Please sir, we can cope with what's happening to us."

"OK!" Sam said, "Shelter, warmth, food, and drink; I think that they're the basics for survival. We can't work to a particular order but we need to be organised by nightfall.

There's a toilet just inside the back door of the house. You'll have to share that as best you can. Something tells me you'd accept being hosed down in the yard as a temporary shower arrangement, but maybe we can arrange a rota system for my bathroom later. Appoint yourself an adjutant to organise these lists. I'll show two men around the kitchen and larder then leave them to rustle up some food."

Sam paused thinking what else would be needed.

"There's a couple of other sheds full of old junk. Detail some men to search through them to see if there's anything useful. Drink. I don't want you getting dehydrated. Get someone to clean the outside tap, find a small table to set a jug and a cup on and let your squad help themselves. We can arrange hot drinks later. I'm afraid it's a bit Spartan but it'll get us started."

"Yes sir." Sergeant Williams replied, "Pioneers don't expect it to be easy, sir."

Sam laughed.

"Let's get that lot sorted then I'd like to see you in my study," he said.

Sergeant Williams saluted smartly then called over two of the youngest Pioneers, detailing them to act as Sam's runners.

The morning progressed as planned. Sam found all the boys intelligent and disciplined. His runners seemed eager to please and he only had to look at his coffee cup for it to be refilled. The two nominated cooks were soon busy and when they realised that he had not eaten, insisted on preparing his breakfast and serving him in his dining room while his two runners looked hungrily on. They might have been hungry but they also seemed to have an intense pride in dealing with their trials and Sam wondered if it would insult them if he offered to share his food.

He headed for his study, sent one of his runners for Sergeant Williams and pulled out some maps.

He thought of doing some Internet searches to try and identify the boys but held back. Whoever was responsible had let them get into this trouble and Sam was not sure that they should be trusted with the boys again. Whatever had happened seemed to be big and he did not want to leave an electronic trail back to his computer.

Sergeant Williams pointed to a spot about ten miles [15 km] away as the site of the laboratory where they had been based. Sam knew the area and was sure that it was just open fields but he did not say anything.

"None of this makes any sense," he said instead, "I want you to imagine that I'm a visitor from an alien planet when you answer my questions. I don't know anything about your world and you must explain everything starting from scratch. Do you understand?"

"Sir, yes sir." Sergeant Williams replied.

"OK! First of all tell me about the Pioneers."

The Pioneers were an organisation for boys founded by a General Baden-Powell nearly a hundred years ago. It was intended to begin their military training and inculcate notions of discipline and service. Training was intensive and less than a third of the volunteers lasted for more than a month without dropping out. Those that completed the full five year program were set up for life. Those that entered the services automatically received commissioned rank. Anyone applying for a civilian job was immediately put on the short list and was usually the successful candidate.

On the other hand, the Pioneer's reputation had been earned the hard way. Being a runner was an honour. It stemmed from when Pioneers carried out the task on the battlefield. Considered by their age to be too weak and immature to be a fighting man their role was to support soldiers in the field. There were stories of wounded men being dragged off the battlefield, exhausted survivors of a big push being served a hot meal as shells burst around them and vital messages being delivered by Pioneers as they collapsed exhausted or dead from their wounds.

Nowadays there were rules and regulations governing their treatment, but no Pioneer would ever complain if they were mistreated. Such was their pride in the Corps and its traditions.

In answer to Sam's next question, Sergeant Williams described the experiment that they were involved in. It seemed that the Army Base had a laboratory where they were developing point to point transportation. Their work had reached a critical stage and funding was about to be withdrawn if there were no tangible results. They needed to produce results that would impress the high command. The theory was sound. Equipment worked flawlessly and test results were impressive.

People tended to talk in front of Pioneers as if they were invisible. Like good servants throughout history they kept to the background and were forgotten so Sergeant Williams was fully aware that unexpected errors had been occurring but the scientists were sure that they had fixed the problem.

To prove it they planned a demonstration that would show the full potential of the transporter and secure more funding. It was a case of over confidence and a need to prove that they were getting somewhere that led to the the Pioneer Group being asked to volunteer as guinea pigs for the project. Because of their traditions they could not refuse and being young, trusted the scientists when they said the problems had been sorted. Seasoned soldiers would have been more wary but it was exciting to be involved in such an event.

Sergeant Williams had proudly led his squad onto the transporter platform in front of the watching dignitaries, fully expecting to find themselves transported to the next camp.

Instead, as the big moment arrived, they found themselves standing on Sam's front lawn. They had been ordered not to move while technicians checked to ensure that the transfer was stable. Sergeant Williams had seen Sam's bedroom light go on and Sam looking out at them.

Relieved that they had been seen Sergeant Williams obeyed his orders and had waited further instructions. He had suspected that something might be wrong and the suspicion had been growing stronger to the point where he was about to disobey orders when Sam had come out to them.

It was an incredible story and Sam was not sure whether he believed it. However he looked at it, the flash of light, the fading blue sphere and a squad of extremely obedient if oddly dressed young men on his lawn needed some explanation.

"We don't have anything like the Pioneers here," Sam said, "It's almost as if you're from a parallel Earth where your history is slightly different to ours. I don't know what to make of it."

"We're an army unit so we should report to the nearest base." Sergeant Williams said, "I expected you to do that and report that we're safe even though the jump went wrong. I wondered if you were quarantining us in case we had radiation poisoning or something."

"No!" Sam replied, "You've gone along with my instructions because you've known something was wrong. I knew something had happened and I thought you would be safer if you hid out here. Once you're known to someone you can't become unknown again so I wanted to be sure what was going on."

"Yes sir." Sergeant Williams said, "What do you intend doing next, may I ask, sir?"

"Drive over to your laboratory and look around," Sam replied, "I'd like you to come with me."

"Yes sir." Sergeant Williams said, "What about the fuel rationing though, sir. How will you explain the purpose of your journey, sir?"

"You're questioning my orders again," Sam teased, "I'll have to think about your punishment some more."

"Yes sir. I'm sorry, sir." Sergeant Williams replied, not realising that Sam was joking, "I haven't seen a whipping post. Do you have one, sir?"

Sam realised that Sergeant Williams had asked two weird questions. One about rationing and now about a whipping post.

"Take your shirt off and turn around," Sam snapped.

Startled, Sergeant Williams obeyed and at Sam's next command put his hands on his head. The boy's back was strongly muscled. He was fit, not from exercising but from hard work. Sam was not looking at that. He was looking at the fine red lines across his back. They were almost invisible, faded by time and the deep tan but the boy had clearly been whipped at some stage.

"You've been whipped before, I see," Sam said.

"Yes sir," Sergeant Williams replied.

Sam was having trouble accepting the idea that the boys had come from a parallel Earth but the evidence kept mounting up. Corporal punishment was illegal here but Sergeant Williams obviously thought it was normal.

"Come with me," Sam commanded leading Sergeant Williams up to his bedroom.

"I want you to drop your trousers and bend over that chair so that I can fuck you."

"Yes sir." Sergeant Williams replied obeying Sam's command.

Curious, Sam ran his finger down the boys crack, pausing to enter him briefly before reaching through his legs to fondle his balls. The boy remained still and relaxed allowing the invasion without any sign of protest.

"I wouldn't be the first, would I?" Sam asked.

"No sir." Sergeant Williams replied.

"And you don't object?"

"No sir."

"Why not?"

"It's your orders sir. How can I object?"

"OK!" Sam said, "Straighten up. You've got a nice body but now's not the time. Try this on. It's shrunk in the wash so much, it doesn't fit me any more."

Sam handed Sergeant Williams a T-shirt and the youth dutifully pulled it on.

"It's a bit loose but it'll do," Sam said, "What's your first name?"

"Brian, sir."

"Very well. This trip to the laboratory is to be a reconnaissance mission. I want your assessment of what you see on the trip and at the site. Do you understand?"

"Yes sir." Sergeant Williams replied.

"I want you looking and acting like a civilian as much as possible. The T-shirt's better than your own shirt. It's a pity I don't have any trainers that would fit you."

"What are trainers, sir?"

"Just get dressed," Sam laughed, "Oh and while we're out on our recce try to behave like a nephew or something not a soldier."

"Yes sir," Sergeant Williams said, "May I be excused. I'll hand over command to Pioneer Davies. He's the one I appointed adjutant and then I'm at your service."

Sam nodded and watched as Sergeant Williams marched out of the room. I'll just hope we don't have to get out of the car, he thought to himself.

Sam's doubts seemed justified as he watched the preparations for the journey. He decided to use his little hatchback and he watched as it was driven out of the garage, had its tyres, oil and water checked and was loaded with a bag of supplies. Sam saw his Thermos sticking out of the bag.

Both Sergeant Williams and Pioneer Davies were waiting for him by the car, standing at attention.

"Permission to adopt undercover role, sir." Sergeant Williams snapped out.

"Very well."

Brian almost seemed to sag. Without waiting for permission he got into the car while one of Sam's runners smartly opened the door for him.

Brian was quiet for a while as they drove through the quiet country lanes but started up with surprise when he saw the traffic on the main road.

"I did ask for your assessment, Brian," Sam said.

"Yes sir. Where is all this traffic coming from? What about the fuel shortage? It's all civilian isn't it?"

"You've mentioned rationing before," Sam said, "Is it just fuel or are other things rationed?"

"Food is as well," Brian replied, "The cooks were surprised at how much you had stocked up. It's a pretty good allotment. How about chocolate. I'd love to have a piece again."

As they approached the town, Sam took a detour, pulling into a large supermarket car park. Brian stared in amazement at all the cars parked there. Sam knew the expression 'his eyes almost popped out in amazement' and he began to understand where it came from when Brian saw the stacked shelves. He led the way to the sweets department and, remembering that he was buying for twenty, soon filled the basket he had picked up with chocolate of every description.

As they left the supermarket Sam casually tossed a bar of chocolate to Brian who seemed to wait for permission to eat it.

"Enjoy," Sam said, "Assessment?"

"Did you mean what you said about being on a different planet, sir?" Brian asked,"This place just doesn't seem real. May I make a request, please sir."

"That's what nephews usually do?" Sam said.

Brian grinned.

"Yes sir. I'd like to visit the local Pioneer Group. I haven't seen any Pioneers and I'd like to talk to them."

"We don't have Pioneers here," Sam explained, "We do have youth organisations but nothing like that. For one thing, it's illegal to use corporal punishment and for another I broke the law when I grabbed your balls and pushed my finger into you."

Brian stared at Sam trying to work out whether he was being teased.

"If you say so, sir," Brian replied, "

"I do say so," Sam said sharply, "The marks on your back and the way you allowed me to touch you was proof that you didn't come from here. You mentioned rationing and as you can see we don't have it here. Are there any other differences?"

"Yes sir," Brian replied, "A lot of people are deaf. I've never seen so many hearing aids."

"Ever heard of mobile phones or music players," Sam asked, "What sort of electronic stuff do you have at home?"

"I remember things when I was little, sir," Brian replied, "It was all imported so it was banned when transport costs shot up. It was so that we could afford the essentials. I think I do believe you about being on a different planet, sir. What are we going to find at the laboratory, sir?"

"If you're very lucky there'll be a transporter waiting to take you home but I doubt it. If you're very unlucky, we'll find the remains of an explosion and proof that the laboratory was completely destroyed and you're all presumed dead. Realistically, we may find a laboratory doing the same sort of research as yours but I think we'll probably just find open fields."

"Sir, what's going to happen to us?"

"I don't know," Sam replied, "At the moment, we're trying to agree about what's happened."

"Yes sir. That wasn't an order, was it, sir?"

"No," Sam replied, grinning, "When we first met, you were a bit disorientated and relied on your orders. Sooner or later you would have insisted on getting back to your base and reporting to your superiors. I wanted you to understand just how difficult that might be."

"You're still the Commanding Officer at the point of arrival or at least the senior adult, sir," Brian said, "I was ordered to report to you which I've done so I'm under your command until someone says differently. And yes sir, I do understand your orders better. How did you know we came from another planet? You seemed to know as soon as you saw us."

"I didn't know," Sam replied, "Things just didn't seem right. I was just careful not to commit us to the wrong path while I built up a picture. Does that make sense?"

"Oh yes sir," Brian replied, "But not everyone would understand this parallel world stuff, would they?"

"I doubt it," Sam said, "I half expected you to recognise my name. I'm staying here while I try to figure a way of building a transporter like the one you described. If my counterpart was involved in your project, chose this area for the same technical reasons that I did then the coincidences begin diminishing. I've even got a theory about how your accident happened.

"I can't build a transporter for you but I might be able to send a message."

While they had been talking they had continued their journey and were now on a narrow lane winding its way towards the coordinates of the laboratory. The landscape seemed familiar to Brian but so very different. The horizon and view of distant hills was right but the road was wrong. It as not a wide highway but a narrow lane. The copse of trees was still there but guard posts and other buildings were missing. There was no sign of the double thirty foot security fence and the array of security devices in between.

"You see that path, sir." Barry said, "I took my squad for a run along it about two days ago. You see that log near the top of the hill. I made Pioneer Thomas strip and bend over it so that I could cane him. He'd complained about doing the run when it was so frosty. I made him finish the run in the nude then sent him back up there to collect his clothes."

For the first time, Sam noticed a touch of humour in his face.

"Maybe that's why no one complained about being out in the cold this morning, sir"

"Maybe you're right," Sam replied, "So what do you make of this place"

"There's nothing here," Brian replied, "No road, no security, no barracks and I think we should be seeing the laboratory by now."

"According to the satellite navigation, it should be round this corner. We'll pull into this lay-by and walk."

According to Brian, when they had built the laboratory they had landscaped an existing pond as part of the approach to the main entrance. He gasped in disbelief when he saw the pond and the willow tree still there but in the middle of a field.

If the scene had been completely different it might have been easier to accept but Brian kept seeing features that existed in both worlds. Sam used his mobile to take some pictures, producing yet more gasps of astonishment at yet another piece of technology that Brian had not seen before.

Brian was quiet on the way home, digesting everything he had seen.

"You look as if you want to ask me something," Sam said.

"If we have to stay for a long time and you're not going to hand us over to your Authorities who will pay for our keep, sir?"

"With your sense of discipline I reckon I could hire you out as slave labour," Sam replied, "How does that sound?"

Brian said nothing, trying to decide whether Sam was serious or not.

"You're an easy target to tease," Sam said at last, "I won the lottery and I've done well out of my investments. I've got no living relatives so I may as well spend my money on you. Long term we'll have to get you papers so you can do something with your lives here. Short term, my property needs a lot work done to it so you can earn your keep. We could also think of a way getting you home. I don't hold out much hope that we'll succeed but we should try. We can start by pooling everything we know about the laboratory and the transporter that they were developing."

"Were you serious about it being illegal to punish or fuck us, sir?"

"I was," Sam replied, "I find the attitudes to sex to be one of the most surprising differences between our worlds."

"Well sir, The story we're told goes like this," Brian began, "General Baden-Powell started what he called the Scout movement over a hundred years ago. It was aimed at kids, you know, taking them camping, teaching them skills like wood-craft and first aid, stuff like that. Anyway the Great War came along with Britain and Germany trying to restore the Russian Imperial throne after their revolution of 1913. Scouts carried messages at first then as manpower shortages increased they began to help in other areas. In 1919 a soldier was shot for getting a blow-job and the boy giving it, sent home in disgrace. By 1922, everyone turned a blind eye to what was going on. In 1923 when the Pioneers were founded, it was part of our charter that we offer whatever comfort or support that was asked for. The war ended in 1925 and returning soldiers were grateful for what we had done."

Sam glanced at his watch and was surprised to see that it was only half past two. It had been a busy day and there was still a lot to do. On their way back, Sam stopped off at a shopping mall to buy his 'nephew' some clothes. Dressed in jeans and trainers, he looked like any other teenager and although he could not stop himself from calling Sam 'sir', he remembered not to march everywhere and not to salute. Sam guessed at the sizes of his two runners and bought them some clothes as well. One of the tasks left for the adjutant while they were away was preparing a list of supplies needed for the next forty eight hours and he did not see why he should all the carrying.

He watched as his two runners excitedly stripped and put on their new clothes. Sam got a glimpse of smooth skin, nicely hanging cocks and balls and an image of very healthy looking thirteen year olds before it was all covered up and they were showing off their new look. A sharp command from Brian, Sergeant Williams, brought them quickly back to attention.

Sam remembered the flask that had been packed in the car and asked about it. Moments later he was seated on his patio with a coffee being poured for him and a plate arriving as the sandwiches were unpacked. The Pioneers took their role very seriously and the cooks were scandalised that he was content with a quick snack already prepared and not demanding a cooked lunch.

Pioneer Davies waited patiently to present his shopping list while in the background Brian was teaching his two runners how to behave in public, away from camp. Sam could not picture the world that they had come from but he could believe that the Pioneer Corps were an elite, only accepting the best and in return they seemed to have much the same status as rock stars or footballers here.

Sam was flattered that he seemed to have earned Sergeant Williams respect. No Pioneer would ever admit it but the youth had been badly frightened by events. Sam had been calm and reassuring throughout the day and had got things organised. Brian Williams felt safe and as if he was being looked after under Sam's command. That was enough to earn any Pioneer's loyalty.

The trip to the shopping centre passed smoothly. Like Brian on the first trip, his runners were amazed at the number of cars, all civilian on the road. The first stop was to buy trainers for his two runners. He had guessed their jeans and shirt sizes pretty well but had not attempted to guess their shoe size but as soon as they had changed into trainers and dumped their boots into the car they looked even more like a couple of excited and cheeky young lads. Brian was torn between trying to keep some sort of discipline, being infected by his younger companions' enthusiasm and remembering the purpose of the trip.

His next stop was to buy a couple of mobile phones. Glad that batteries in new phones always seemed to be partially charged he showed them how to enter each other's numbers and then his own. He gave one to Sergeant Williams and the other to his two runners.

Buying food for twenty for two days was roughly the same as buying for two to last twenty days. Buying twenty sleeping bags might arouse some comment.

"You know we're buying a load of camping equipment," Sam said, "Somebody might get curious as to why we need so much. Make sure they're single sleeping bags. People might get suspicious if lads your age want to sleep together but for most part, if anyone does ask then it'll be just idle curiosity. Nothing formal. Tell them that Brian here is having a birthday party and you're all inviting a lot of friends for a sleepover in your Uncle's barn.

"I'm going to get the largest barbecue they've got and some lanterns. Then while you look around for anything else that might be useful I'll organise the food. Stay together and use your phones if you need help and just remember that you're not Pioneers here."

Everything went smoothly. Sam was glad that he had bought his largest vehicle, a large Land Rover bought for the winter months when he could be snowed in or if there was some other emergency.

The boys were giggling amongst themselves as they loaded the sleeping bags. The shop assistant had been young and had made a point of mentioning that they could be zipped together to make a double bag. Just in case Brian's girlfriend was staying as well, the assistant had said.

Sam just shrugged. He was not going to try and keep twenty fit, horny young men celibate and if they were content to keep it among themselves then it would ease security. In fact Sam had his eye on one of his runners. He was blond, with a cheeky grin that he had trouble concealing, even when he was on parade. Sam had caught a brief glimpse of his perfectly formed cock and equally delightful balls when the boy had changed. What hair he had was fair and fine making him seem hairless apart from a developing little bush above his cock.

So far, Sam had been too busy to worry about such things but the three boys helping him with the shopping were becoming individuals and this particular boy was becoming more attractive by the minute.

The rest of shopping trip went smoothly. The Land Rover steadily filled up and Sam began to feel redundant as Brian took over, quietly directing the other boys. Sam found himself sitting in the cafeteria while the boys took over the shopping completely. Every so often he was asked to go to the checkout with his card while one of his runners saved his seat.

"I can't get my son to go down to the corner shop for me," one of the checkout girls said, "How have you got these so well trained?"

"Their parents probably ask the same thing," Sam laughed, "Maybe it's easier when you're an uncle. They're staying with me while their parents are abroad and I must say, it's working out very well."

"If you've got room for one more you can have my Craig as well," the woman laughed, "Maybe some of it will rub off onto him."

Back in the car, Brian looked worried.

"Have we done something wrong, sir," Brian asked.

"No, why do you ask?"

"We were supposed to blend in but a lot of people complimented us on being so polite, sir."

"Don't worry about that," Sam laughed, "If you said something like, thank you, it's good of you to say so, then fine. If you snapped to attention, saluted, and thanked them for not demanding you be whipped then we would have a problem."

"I nearly did, the first time, sir," Brian admitted, "I wasn't going to say anything about a whipping but I would have mentioned the Pioneers, sir. I'm sorry and it was lucky that Pioneer Smith… I mean Smith… er Jason spoke up first."

Jason Smith was the boy that Sam was eyeing up.

"Well done, Jason!" Sam said to him, getting an even broader grin, "Treat this as a compliment, Brian, but I don't think you'll ever make it as a spy. You're too straightforward and honest."

Brian grinned sheepishly.

"I'm sorry, sir," he said, "So much has happened today. It's difficult to take in."

"Let's get back," Sam said, "The others will be getting hungry and then we'll all get a good night's sleep."

The boys were quiet on the way back. His two young runners assumed that they were back under normal discipline and sat upright just occasionally being distracted by the traffic. Brian seemed lost in his own thoughts and Sam just concentrated on driving.

In fact Brian was miserable feeling as if he had failed when his squad had needed him the most. He knew why his new C.O. had wanted him to act like his nephew but he had been unable to adapt to the role. Sam had not wanted to be called 'sir', but he had been unable to break the habit. Jason had baled him out more than once in the shop. He knew that something had been wrong the moment he had landed but he had stuck to his orders until Sam had taken over. He was sure that the only reason he had gone with Sam on both trips was because Sam could not trust him to run the squad. Pioneer Davies was doing a far better of getting things organised.

His depression was not eased as Pioneer Davies supervised the unloading of the car, seeming to know where everything should go, leaving Brian to stand uselessly beside Sam. Neither did it ease when Pioneer Davies suggested that Sam retire to his living room. Sam invited Brian to join him, inviting him to sit and relax.

Shortly after Jason had appeared to serve them with fresh tea, Pioneer Davies arrived to ask about punishment parade. Apparently ten boys, nearly half the squad had earned his displeasure in some way. Sam turned to Brian.

"Is that usual?" he asked.

"No sir," Brian replied, "Usually it's only one every other day or so. I might deal with one or two others on the spot but that's all."

Sam turned to Pioneer Davies.

"Well?" he asked.

"I'm sorry sir," Pioneer Davies responded, "Everyone just seemed to be wound up and irritable. I didn't know how to handle it."

"You'd better include me in the list," Brian said sadly, "I've fouled up badly today as well. Mr. Jameson will want to deal with me, as well."

Pioneer Davies looked surprised but replied with a simple "Yes Sergeant."

"Give me a moment please, Pioneer," Sam said, "I want a quiet word with Sergeant Williams. Take my two runners as well, please."

Once they were alone, Sam asked, "So what's the problem?"

Brian almost burst into tears as his doubts and fears poured out. Sam wanted to put his arm around the boy but instinct told him that it would only make matters worse. Sam had to assume that Brian was strong enough to deal with anything that happened otherwise he would destroy more of the boy's morale.

"OK!" Sam said eventually, "I'll accept that you could have done more to act undercover while we were out. It's easy to say that you should have reacted quicker when you realised that something was wrong but suppose they had tried to recover you and you were ordering the squad off my lawn. They could have all been chopped in half."

"Yes sir," Sergeant Williams replied, "I did think about that but I was wrong wasn't I?"

"No! You were cautious," Sam replied, "Everything is obvious in hindsight. Things are not so easy at the time. We've achieved a lot today. We've got food and shelter for the next few days. We've got a fair idea of what's happened to you and while Pioneer Davies may not be a natural leader, you recognised him as a damned good organiser.

"We can go back to those shops and still be welcome so I think the damage to our cover is minimal. You'll be charge again tomorrow. I bet that there'll be fewer punishments and they'll work harder."

"I hope so, sir," Brian said, "Thank you."

"I'll see what I can do about all these punishments and start with a clean slate tomorrow."

"May I suggest something, please sir," Brian asked.

"Go on."

"You can't cancel the punishments without undermining Pioneer Davies authority," he continued, "It would be better if you started out too tough then eased off. That's what I was taught, sir."

"Then as you disobeyed me, I should punish you. I shouldn't accept that everything worked out well in the end and I do expect you to be able to do everything."

"I suppose so, sir," Brian said nervously, "Pioneers Smith and Ralton know I was disobedient, sir."

"Get over to the others," Sam said, "I'll be along shortly."

There were three sheds on Sam's property. Two had been full of junk and the third full of gardening equipment. At one time the house he lived in had been inhabited by the farmer who had owned the surrounding fields. Sam now rented those fields out to other farms. He had pulled down the barn and stables that had deteriorated beyond repair and had planned on using the remaining yard and buildings to begin some experimental work he had in mind.

So far he had not had an opportunity to carry out his plans. Before his lottery win he ran an I.T. Firm which he had started. He earned more from the interest of his lottery win than he made from the business so it had been a good time to sell up. The sale of the I.T. Firm was going ahead but it was painfully slow and he had only just finished modernising the house. He had agreed to help complete some of the contracts he had signed while still in charge and it all added up to him being very busy.

The sheds in the yard were large, each one larger than two or three of those mobile offices he saw on building sites. The Pioneers had worked hard. Pioneer Davies had divided everything into three groups, useful, junk and not sure. The useful was stacked neatly in one shed, along with some of the not sure. The rest of the not sure and the junk was neatly piled up beside the shed.

Another shed was completely bare except for a couple of rickety old tables, an assortment of old upright chairs, a pile of sleeping bags and the other stuff they bought stacked neatly along the wall.

He found the squad in the third hut. This one had a door in the middle of the long wall. Directly opposite was a large kitchen table that could comfortably seat over a dozen people for dinner with three chairs behind it. To the left, the squad stood. Initially it had stood in three ranks but there were gaps where the defaulters had fallen out to line up in a fourth row.

To the right of the door the space was almost empty. A fifty gallon oil drum lay on its side, prevented from rolling around by lengths of wood, nailed to the floor, acting as wedges. Two more lengths of wood had been nailed to the floor and slightly longer lengths nailed on top of them. Short lengths of rope lay, neatly rolled up, at each end of the wood which reminded Sam of cleats. He shuddered as he guessed what the arrangement was for.

Sam strolled down the line of defaulters, recognising one of the cooks.

"Why are you in this line?" he asked.

"When Pioneer Jones was sent to help us we argued over who should be head cook," he replied.

Sam saw the other cook and called him out.

"Where were you during this row?" Sam asked.

"I was watching, sir," the boy replied, smugly certain that he had nothing wrong.

"Didn't you try to calm things down?"

"No sir."

"Did you go for help?"

"No sir."

"Did you at least try to warn them that they were putting everyone at risk?"

"No sir."

"So you encouraged this argument, didn't you?"

The boy was less smug now.

"Yes sir," he whispered.

"I want all Pioneers to fall in as one unit."

"I'm impressed by your efforts today but I expect more," Sam said, "I suspect that most of you have allowed your fears and doubts to interfere with your duties and you've sometimes forgotten the needs of your comrades."

Sam paused.

"If I'm wrong and any of you can claim that you've worked to your full potential to help sort this mess out then fall out and line up behind me."

To Sam's relief, no one moved. It was probably because no one wanted to be the first to break ranks but it had been a safe bet that they had all been scared at some time during the day.

"Pioneer Davies tried to deal with today's problems but I can take a long term view," he continued, "In ancient Rome, if a Legion behaved badly in battle it would be punished with decimation. The legionnaires would draw lots and one in ten of the men would be executed. Don't worry, I'm not planning any executions but I'm going to do something similar. You will draw lots and the two lucky winners will be severely punished.

"Tomorrow night we will do the same thing and continue until I'm satisfied that you're looking out for each other as you should. Standing back and not being involved is not an option. You're here so what affects the others affects you."

Sam paused again to let his message sink in. He thought he saw Sergeant Williams nod approvingly but it was the slightest of movements so he could not be sure. He continued with his speech.

"I'm using my authority as senior adult present to add some acting ranks and change the structure of the squad slightly. I may not be able to speak to your superiors when you return home so we also need someone to keep a daily log. That way they will be able to assess how you carried out your extra responsibilities.

"I'm promoting Pioneer Davies to Acting Lieutenant with immediate effect and he will continue as Adjutant. He's done a good job so far today and it was Sergeant Williams choice to make him Adjutant.

"Sergeant Williams believes he could have tried harder in his role as my nephew while we were out and he was sloppy in front of two other Pioneers and he believes he could have been more decisive when you arrived.

"I don't agree with him, at least not very much," Sam paused, "However he has impressed on me that I have to impose discipline and I cannot start off by having favourites or allowing any excuse. His punishment is to emphasise that point.

"He is to be demoted to Pioneer."

He watched as Brian seemed to crumple but he did not protest. Sam had wondered how far he could push his authority over the boys before someone challenged him.

"His last task as Sergeant will be to work with the Adjutant, Lieutenant Davies to devise suitable punishments for all three due to be punished.

"If Pioneer Williams shows that he's willing to accept harsh discipline as well as give it out then he will be promoted to Acting Captain as of 06.00hrs tomorrow morning and take back command of this squad."

Pioneer Brian Williams was intelligent. Sam could see the implications of his position dawning on him. He had to propose his own punishment. It seemed obvious that he would opt for the lightest possible but if he did that he would undermine his own position as C.O.

Before dismissing Brian Williams and Lieutenant Davies, Sam explained that for tonight and tonight only, Lieutenant Davies was exempt from the lottery. They couldn't have a situation where all their commanders were under punishment, Sam explained.

Amongst the junk they had found some unwanted stationery. Sam guessed that one of the previous tenants had been involved in organising village functions. He sent Jason, his runner to fetch a book of cloakroom tickets then give each pioneer a ticket, not forgetting himself, of course. Sam then had the boy tear out the stubs and drop them into a bag before holding it up just above Sam's eye level.

There was not a sound and every pair of eyes in the room followed his every move with frightened anticipation. The tension became almost physical as he reached up and pulled out the first screwed up ball.

Sam knew that they were waiting for him to call out the first number, praying that they had passed the first hurdle. Instead he dropped it onto the table and picked the second ticket before telling Pioneer Smith to rejoin the squad.

"I think it'll be only fair that whoever is punished tonight will be exempt the next time I find a lottery necessary," he said, "That means that Lieutenant Davies could find himself demoted and punished."

He had dragged out the draw for as long as he could so he unwrapped the ticket and called out the number. One of the Pioneers staggered and almost fainted but he recovered and marched bravely to stand beside Brian, now demoted to Pioneer. Sam called out the second number and the one who seemed to be the youngest boy present gasped and looked as if he was about to burst into tears. He walked rather than marched, fear apparent in his face.

Another Pioneer stepped forward.

"Sir, I'll take his place," he said, "He's only been in the squad a couple of weeks and he's not finished his training."

Sam looked at the young Pioneer.

"It's up to you," he said.

The boy thought for a moment.

"Please sir," he whispered, "I'm frightened. I don't know if I can handle it."

"You're not meant to handle it and you're meant to be frightened of it," Sam said quietly, "The question is, are you willing to face it? Cry if you want to. Your friend there can hold your hand. No one will think the worse of you for that."

"But they'll think I'm a wimp if I back out," the boy said, now choking back the sobs.

"And if you don't back out, they'll know how brave you are," Sam said.

"Yes sir," the boy sobbed, "I'm sorry I'm behaving like a baby but I'll do it."

"I knew you would," Sam said, "Because I know that you're not a baby. Count this as part of your training and a chance to learn something about yourself."

The boy was not really comforted by Sam's remarks but Sam was not trying to comfort him. He was trying maintain the boy's self respect and it seemed to be working.

Sam beckoned the boy who had interrupted over.

"Stay with him and support him." He said, "You were right to point out that he was a novice but you were wrong to offer to take his place. Like he said, he's not a baby and wants to accept his responsibilities but that doesn't mean that he's equipped to take it in the same way that Pioneer Williams should take it. Do you understand?"

"Yes sir," the Pioneer replied.

"If it's any consolation, this is the sort of help and support I'm looking for," Sam said, "If others follow your example then maybe there won't be any more lotteries."

The Pioneer grinned.

"Thank you, sir," he said.

Sam glanced at his watch. It was nearly seven and it had been a long day. He was determined that they all have a hot meal before they settled down for the night and he wanted to relax with a quiet drink before he turned in. He decided he had made enough speeches for the day and sat down behind the table to watch events.

The rest of the squad were stood at ease while the three to be punished stood at attention along the back wall of the hut, behind the oil drum. The boy who had spoken up was standing next to the youngest one. With his hand on his shoulder.

Sam had no idea just how severe Pioneer discipline could be and was sure that he about to find out.

Chapter 2

First all three under punishment were ordered to strip. Pioneer Gregson also obeyed. As they stood and waited, Sam was able to study them. All four boys were different but there were some similarities. All four boys were muscular, developed by hard work and being constantly active. The youngest, Bryant was far less developed than the oldest, Williams, and of course he was the smallest of the group.

Sam was vaguely surprised that they were all smooth, even Williams only had a small neatly trimmed bush above his cock. Their cocks were average in size. Gregson had the thickest while Travers had the longest. Bryant's would probably be the largest in a group of his peers but he was nicely proportioned and Sam thought him very attractive.

Sam nearly intervened when Brian Williams was called up first. Whoever went first would miss the extra torment of watching what would happen to him. It seemed wrong that Williams should have it the easiest.

However he kept quiet as lengths of rope were tied to Williams wrists and ankles. He bent over the oil drum and allowed his hands to be spread as the ropes were threaded under the makeshift cleats and tied together. The same thing was done to his ankles and he finished up spread-eagled over the drum.

To Sam's surprise, Pioneer Bryant was called up next and had ropes tied to his ankles before being ordered to get himself hard. In his fear, he stroked himself with little effect until Gregson knelt down in front of him and began gently sucking. Bryant forgot about his forthcoming punishment, everyone watching him as well as his home sickness and allowed himself to be guided into Williams exposed hole, before being bent over the older boy and having his wrists secured to Williams arms. His ankles were tied to Williams legs.

They were angled over the drum so that all of Bryant's weight was pushing his cock deep into Williams. However he wriggled, it would be transmitted into Williams. If he jerked his limbs it would hurt Pioneer Williams' limbs. Even if Bryant pulled out of Williams, his cock would still be wedged in Williams crack. Pioneer Williams was already wincing as his ribs were pressed into the drum and he found it difficult to breathe.

Two more Pioneers were called out to stand either side of the bound pair. They were handed yet more lengths of rope. They looped the rope over and knotted them far enough from the looped end to make a handle and then knotted the two tails together every few inches or so.

Finally they were ready. Pioneer Travers had been watching the preparations with mounting horror and flinched as the first blow landed. There was silence but as the second boy swung his rope down, Bryant screamed and began struggling. As Williams was ground into the drum and felt his own limbs being pulled and jerked, he groaned with his own misery.

As the first whipper took his next turn, Pioneer Bryant froze and then bucked violently. The writhing and wriggling had proved too much for his cock and he had cum inside Pioneer Williams. Brian would have enjoyed the experience but with the other boys weight crushing him and his limbs feeling as if they were being snatched of their sockets, he was finding the experience anything but enjoyable.

The two boys administered ten strokes each. Pioneer Bryant just lay still, sobbing quietly, defeated and accepting the torment. The powerful squirt of his cream into the boy trapped below him had drained him completely. Towards the end, he had recovered enough to feel the fire in his backside and cried out again at the last couple of strokes but he was only dimly aware that they had stopped and his limbs were free.

Pioneer Gregson cuddled his friend and led him back to stand beside Pioneer Travers who was visibly trembling.

Lieutenant Davies was examining Williams and it seemed to Sam that Travers was being deliberately ignored. What Sam only learnt later was that the squad had been delighted that Travers had been picked. Somehow he always seemed able wriggle out of trouble and and never did his fair share of the work. For once, Travers couldn't get out of his obligations and everyone was curious to see how he would handle it.

Sam watched deciding not to intervene as the terrified youth was called into position. He hesitated for a moment, took a deep breath then strode determinedly over. He allowed the ropes to be tied to his wrists and ankles before whispering something to Lieutenant Davies who nodded approvingly. The two Pioneers administering the beatings, dropped to their knees either side of Travers and began kissing and licking his cock. Evidently Travers had admitted that he was in no state to get himself hard and needed help. As he stood enjoying the sensations of two sets of tongues and lips on his manhood, together with fingers gently exploring their way into him him, he relaxed.

Again Sam was not aware of it at the time but Travers usually never asked for help, trying to keep aloof from his comrades. He only stayed in the Pioneers because of the status it gave him. He had been transferred to this squad because of his Father's influence. Being involved in such Top Secret activities was the closest thing to active service there was at the moment and would improve his record sheet even further.

Like the rest of the squad he had nearly been overwhelmed by events and for once needed the support of his fellow Pioneers. If he had been in his old squad then his father's friend would have quietly removed his number from the lottery.

In spite of it all Pioneer Travers was not a bad lad. He had listened to Sam's comments to Pioneer Bryant and realised that they applied to him. It had been a big step to admit that he was too frightened to get hard by himself and ask for help. The two Pioneers kneeling on either side of him were gentle but persistent and he was becoming lost in the sensations that they were generating.

By unspoken consent they agreed that Travers was ready. Travers allowed his rampant member to be guided into Williams waiting hole. He was still being gently treated as he was bent over into position before being tied to Williams. Pioneer Brian Williams appreciated the fact that Travers tried to keep as still as possible even when he yelled out from the first blow. It took two more blows before he gave in and began writhing from the pain. Williams could feel the other boy's breath on his neck, cried out at the pain from the stresses on his ankles and wrists and gasped painfully for breath from the weight of the boy, older and heavier than Bryant It took ten blows before Travers came, shooting deep into Williams. He softened quickly slipping out of Williams as struggled against the blows.

He was surprised when Williams found the energy to gasp,"That felt good."

Pleased with the unexpected compliment he focused on the incredible feelings that had briefly swamped the pain and, for the most part, managed to keep still not wanting to add to his fellow sufferer's distress.

Finally his ordeal was over and he was released. The two boys giving the beating helped him up and held him until he regained some strength before turning their attention to Williams. He writhed and struggled, unashamedly sobbing at the pain. With his own cock sandwiched between his body and the drum he had cum once, had become hard again and shot a second load. His balls ached as the the constant grinding demanded a third load.

He had shared the agony of the two boys straddled over him and now he was experiencing his own. He was exhausted, gasping for breath and his backside felt as if it was on fire.

Every nerve in his body was demanding that he beg for mercy and only his pride stopped him from giving in as the blows continued to rain down.

In the back of his mind he had been counting and as he reached twenty he relaxed, relieved that it was all over. The twenty first blow landed unexpectedly, shocking a loud scream from him. As the next couple of blows landed he realised that he had not miscounted and that his punishment was continuing. Although he had discussed the rough plan of the punishment with Lieutenant Davies, the Adjutant was showing who was in command for the moment and added an extra ten blows to William's torture.

All three punishments were out of all proportion to the crimes committed but it did not matter. The new organisation was starting out tough and allowing no exceptions to the rules and every one knew that when he was back in command, Williams, would have no hesitation in giving out what had had just received.

Brian William's arms and legs had been rubbed raw by the ropes attached to them. He winced and grinned ruefully at Sam as he was ordered to clean the oil drum and the surrounding area. The punishment was not over as the other two set about other cleaning duties while the cooks were sent off to prepare a meal for them all. Pioneer Gregson got a thank you hug from Pioneer Bryant and then dressed.

Pioneers with nothing to do were dismissed and sent to the other hut to wait for dinner. Sam joined them and sat on one of the sleeping bag rolls quietly chatting. More and more, Sam was struck by their basic confidence. Even witnessing the punishment that had just been carried out did not seem to upset them. Sam gradually learnt that they were all a little scared of him and dreaded the thought of taking their turn over the oil drum. The added uncertainty of the lottery made it seem even worse but they seemed to expect to be taken to their limits and they also expected recognition of their successes.

Their attitudes confused him even more when the question of his bed mate came up. He could pick any of them, two or more if he wished but they would have to agree. It seemed to be at odds with their strict discipline. The answer dated back to that terrible war when they supplied comfort to soldiers on the front line. There might only be fifty Pioneers to a thousand men. Some soldiers were just not interested and some were content with the briefest of cuddles but a few could be brutal with their demands or become too possessive so the custom grew up that the boys could refuse to service anyone they disliked.

A boy had to do his fair share but a soldier who left one bleeding and injured, useless for anyone else was shunned. The same applied to anyone unwilling to share a boy. By the time the war ended in a messy truce, it was normal for a boy to select a group of men with similar tastes to him.

Sam would be expected to follow that tradition but with one man to twenty or more boys, it would be OK for Sam to choose his boy. If that boy did not like what Sam wanted then he would be passed onto someone who did.

Sam was relieved that Jason Smith grinned even more widely than usual when he suggested the boy for his bed mate. He had no hesitation in accepting and immediately came over to Sam to sit beside him.

For a time they discussed the events of the day. Everyone, including Sam was tired and hungry. The food, when it arrived was delicious the conversation petered out as everyone tucked in. The three who had been punished were set to clearing up and would only rest when everything else was done. Although they were seated inside it was a bit like a picnic as they sat as comfortably as they could on the sleeping bag rolls and helped themselves from the piles of food in the serving dishes.

The three cooks were not used to oven ready chips and other convenience foods but had adapted and had produced a far better meal than anyone had expected. Jason yawned a few times while others began unfolding their bags and unconcernedly stripping naked before settling in.

A few others still wanted to talk. When they discovered that it was the first time that Jason was a bed mate they could not help telling him a few horror stories.

"One guy had a tremendous cock and just rammed it in." One Pioneer said. "The boy was so ripped open, he couldn't crap for a month."

"He should have gone to the bloke who liked gut punching," said another, "He wasn't happy unless he punched the shit out of you."

"I was put over his lap and he belted me so hard that I pissed down his legs," a third boy said, "That was because he shoved his fingers right up my arse so far and found a turd."

Jason was beginning to look nervous.

"That's enough boys," Sam said, "I might handcuff him to the bed post so he can't wriggle but I'm too tired to do much tonight.

"And he'll be ready for you to plough into in the morning."

The youth who had just spoken wilted under Sam's frown.

"Sorry sir," he said, "We're just teasing."

"Maybe I'm just teasing when I say I'm going to have you tied over that oil drum all day tomorrow so that anyone one who wants a fuck can use you," Sam said quietly.

The boy excused himself and rushed for his sleeping bag.

"Ray likes to push it, sir," Jason said, "You mentioned handcuffs, sir. What sort of stuff, do you like?"

Sam paused to think. He had finally been pushed into moving to escape a relationship that had gone bad. At forty he was still fit and active but his lover had fallen for a younger guy. Sam was devastated as their life together unravelled and they went their separate ways. He had built up a software business specialising in highly technical applications for Research Projects in Universities and the like. He had always been interested in Physics and Astronomy and picked up a level of understanding of the researchers work and one of the last projects he had worked on had been about teleportation. The project had been abandoned, but not before he had noticed some strange effects which the financial backers dismissed as irrelevant.

Sam had ended up extremely wealthy. When they had first met, his partner had been the one who was rich and insisted on an agreement where neither had a claim on the other's estate. His partner had made some bad investments and was now broke so Sam had got the last laugh on his partner.

When the young man discovered that it was Sam who supplied their luxurious lifestyle, he dropped Sam's partner, made a brief play for Sam who described him as a scheming little bitch and wanted nothing to do with him. By the time the arguments, recriminations and finally the begging had died down, Sam had had enough. He found this house and moved. The lonely life suited him and he was beginning feel like his old self, even beginning to think about looking for a new lover.

Now, suddenly, he had this young teenager, unconditionally offering himself.

"Supposing I said that I just wanted a slave to fuck and give nothing in return?" Sam asked.

Jason's cheeky smile reappeared.

"That's just being a Pioneer," he laughed, "What about something difficult?"

Until then Sam had not seriously thought about using the boys. His partner had been about his age and their lovemaking had been passionate and fulfilling but straightforward.

Jason was almost inciting him to be kinky and use him in more imaginative ways. He was not ready for that but at the same time, felt that both he and Jason would lose face if he was not pushed to his limits.

"Well for a start, my slave would always be naked and completely hairless except for his head," Sam said.

He was half hoping that Jason would be too proud of his little bush to want to constantly display the fact that he had lost it. Sam had partly succeeded and Jason was less confident as he replied with a cautious, yes sir.

"Also," Sam continued, "Anyone who caught my slave so much as scratching his head, let alone touching any other part of his body would give him a good spanking."

"Ah yes sir," Jason exclaimed triumphantly, "But what about wiping himself after taking a shit?"

"That would depend," Sam replied, "If the slave thought he had found a way of catching his Master out then he would have to ask one of his friends to do it for him and the Master would add that the slave would need his permission to cum"

A couple of the Pioneers were still awake and listening to the conversation. They giggled at the prospect of Jason's humiliations.

"Think it over," Sam said, "If you want a nice little cuddle then OK. If you decide you can be my slave then strip and shave. We don't have to discuss it again."

Jason realised that Sam had out-manoeuvred him. Instead of gaining a little control of the situation he had lost a lot. He would lose too much respect of the other Pioneers if he backed out now. They all needed Sam in their present situation so, it was a matter of honour to offer him something in return. The other Pioneers would feel as if he was letting them down if he not willing to submit.

Jason had been chosen so his comrades would respect him and not try to humiliate him or belittle him if he accepted. In fact, they would help him and it would go down on his record as a credit for services rendered.

Jason made his decision and glanced down at the clothes he was wearing. He was still wearing the ones that Sam had bought. They made him feel good, sharp, ready to face the world. He look at the others in their uniforms. His uniform made him feel proud and as if he belonged.

He sighed and began undressing, wondering when he would next wear clothes again. He had not moved far from Sam so as he dropped his underwear, Sam stretched and grabbed his balls, gently feeling them.

"So you've decided to become my slave, have you?" Sam asked.

"Yes sir," Jason replied.

"And earned your first punishment," Sam said.

"Sir?" Jason exclaimed, puzzled, "I haven't done anything yet."

"Exactly," Sam said, "I said my slave should be stripped and hairless. You're showing off your pubes to me."

Sam could almost see the wheels turning in his brain as he considered the situation. Even Pioneers already in their sleeping bags were sitting up watching Jason's predicament.

"Yes sir," Jason replied finally. "I should gone outside, stripped, shaved then reported to you."

Sam was tired. It had been a long day and if anyone had asked he would have said that he was not into the BDSM scene in any way but he had been surreptitiously adjusting his cock ever since witnessing the punishment session earlier. Now he had Jason at his mercy and he felt ready to cum. More than anything he wanted time to collect his thoughts.

"I'm going to bed," he announced, "Get cleaned up and join me. You have permission to touch yourself for that. As punishment, tomorrow you will find some sticky tape and you will pull your hairs out with that. It's better than shaving. It doesn't leave any sharp bristles though you may find it easier if you find a couple of mates to tie you down while they do it."

Jason shuddered at the prospect but all he could say was a simple, "yes sir" before scuttling away to obey Sam's orders.

Sam had completed his own night time routine and was getting into bed when Jason arrived. The boy looked nervous and Sam hoped that he was shivering from the cold water hosing he had just received. He was accepting rather than willing as he climbed into bed beside Sam and spooned up against him. He was cold and still a little damp as he nestled his back against Sam's chest and felt Sam's strong arms wrap around him. Like any teenage boy who felt warm and safe even though a man's cock was pressed into the small of his back, his own cock began to stir, so in spite of his nervousness, he was disappointed when Sam's breathing became slow and regular and his body relaxed.

For the first time in many years, Sam slept deeply and peacefully. When he woke the following morning he remembered snatches of beautiful, erotic dreams and the warmth of the body beside him. There were none of the tensions and wariness he had experienced sleeping with his partner before the break up and none of the loneliness he had experienced since.

He was woken by his rampant hard on, more urgent and more rigid than it felt in a long time. He looked at the sleeping boy. Outside he could hear that the other boys were already up and about so he did not feel so bad about waking his slave. He tried nudging the boy but without success.

Jason had slept fitfully for most of the night. His strange surroundings, physicals needs and fears made him restless but he had done his best not to disturb Sam. He had finally fallen into a deep a sleep only a couple hours ago and his body was reluctant to be disturbed. Sam wrapped his hand around the boy's cock and squeezed. The boy grunted but did not stir so Sam squeezed harder.

"Ow!" Jason yelped, "That hurts."

"It's serves you right for sleeping when your Master needs attention," Sam said sharply, "I need to cum."

So do I, thought Jason ruefully as he ducked under the duvet to wrap his mouth around Sam's manhood. Sam groaned appreciatively as the boy's mouth and tongue did their work but Jason was thinking about his own relief and reason was flying of the window as he tried to figure a way around Sam's orders not to touch himself.

He pushed the bedclothes back and knelt up to straddle Sam guiding his Master onto his back. he then carefully guided the rampant mast up into his waiting hole. The pain was fierce. Nothing that big had been there before but he knew that if he massaged the right spot he would come and it would be his Master's doing. As a plan to get around Sam's orders it was weak but Jason was desperate. Desperate enough to ignore the pain and to start raising and lowering himself along Sam's shaft.

Sam could see the pain in Jason's eyes. He thought about ordering the boy to get off him but he was enjoying the sensations, knew that it had been Jason's decision and it would offend the boy if Sam thought that Jason could not cope.

Sam's manhood swelled and throbbed. He could not help himself as his hips moved up and down in time with the boy's movements. Suddenly he gripped the boy's waist and forced him to make a couple hard pushes as his balls erupted forcing his cream deep into the Jason.

The thrusts were too much for Jason's desperate body and he shot his load as well, some of it over Sam's head onto the bed's headboard, some onto Sam's face and finally the last few strings only reached as far as Sam's chest.

Even as he came down from the high he realised that he had deliberately disobeyed his Master, had smothered him with his boy cream and that Sam was sharp enough to realise what he had done. Although Sam's shaft was softening it still filled his backside which hurt terribly, feeling as if it had been ripped to shreds.

Sam felt more content than he had done for years. The double cum had been a wonderful experience shared but as he looked at the boy he could see that something was wrong and it was more than just pain.

"You made the mess, boy," Sam said gruffly, "Lick it clean."

Sam's cock pulled out of the boy's body as he bent forward to comply. Sam wrapped his arms around the boy and pulled him tight.

"Why the regrets?" he asked softly.

"I came without permission, sir," Jason almost sobbed, "I hoped I would when I knelt across you. I disobeyed you, sir."

"Yes you did and you did it deliberately," Sam said, "On the serious side it's the second time you tried to get round my instructions but on the other hand you just gave me one of the best experiences of my life. So what am I going to do with you?"

"I don't know, sir," Jason replied.

"Get a couple of your friends to help you. They can tie you on your back along the length of the barrel. They can remove your hair and then they can jerk you off twice. That might sound like fun but next time I have to punish you, they'll have to jerk you off three times and the time after that four and so on. The longer it takes the more painful it'll get and you'll be exhausted and your arms and legs will ache more and more. Do you get the idea.?"

"Yes sir," Jason replied.

"In that case you have permission to cum whenever I'm sharing in the pleasure, like this morning when we came together."

Jason smiled.

"Thank you, sir," he said, "I did enjoy it and I'd like to do it again."

Sam sent Jason off to get his breakfast while he took a leisurely shower. Maybe Jason should had attended him but like the boy, he was coming down from a tremendous high and wanted to be alone. He dressed and headed for the kitchen to make some coffee but was waylaid by one of the cooks who ushered him into the dining room.

A cup appeared in the hatch and the cook put it down at place the set for him.

"Would you prefer grapefruit or toast this morning, sir?" the cook asked.

Sam had the feeling that every piece of conversation had been recorded and squeezed dry for every little bit of information about him. He remembered chatting about his meals now but it had been just that to him, idle chat. The boys obviously had different ideas.

Just as he had decided that he would have both, he was hungry that morning for some reason, another Pioneer slipped into the room.

"Would it be convenient for Captain Williams to see you, this morning, sir?" he asked.

"That's fine," Sam replied, "In an hour. In my office."

As the Pioneer left another entered.

"Pioneer Smith is ready for his punishment, sir," he said, "Do you wish to witness it?"

"No!" Sam replied, "Don't do any permanent damage but make sure he remembers it."

The Pioneer grinned wickedly and left. Sam could imagine the torment that Jason was feeling. His arms and legs would be pulled out in awkward directions, not painful at first but the discomfort would turn into aches then into pain and on to agony if he was there long enough. The pain would increase as he fought the stinging torment of his body hair being slowly pulled out and when his distress reached its peak he would have to find the energy to cum again, twice. It would be a long morning for Jason so Sam would look in on him later.

Captain Williams messenger had left a list of items to be discussed so after breakfast Sam shifted to his study and looked at it.

Much of it was about establishing a routine for the squad. One idea was to appoint sergeants to run small groups of Pioneers so that they could run a number of tasks simultaneously. Another was training to fit in with the outside world. Sam was amused to think that his own world could be so alien to a group of healthy teenagers but it made sense. Sam saw that Brian, Captain Williams, wanted time for physical training but he was surprised that he also wanted classroom time as well.

The one item that really caught Sam's eye was one about correlating all known information on teleporter technology. Sam did not think that they could do much but it would make the boys feel better if they were trying to get home.

Captain Williams arrived on time. He was dressed in his Pioneers uniform looking smart and efficient. He also looked sexy. Sam allowed himself to think about that today as it was so obviously part of their lives. He laughed quietly to himself as he realised that he could order the boy to drop his trousers and bend over the table just as easily as he could invite him to sit at it.

Sam chose to seat them at the table and listen to the Pioneer's proposals. Sam just nodded most of the routine through. Halfway through the meeting Jason came into the room to take up his duties. His eyes were puffy from where he had crying, his groin and legs were red and he walked stiffly as if in great pain. Sam ignored him until they began discussing the question of breaking the squad into smaller units.

One unit would be the cooks and it was difficult to decide who should be in charge. Sam was surprised to learn that all three of them wanted to be chefs and would be trained in top, five star restaurants and hotels after their time in the Pioneers.

"That's a high proportion of wannabe chefs isn't it?" Sam asked.

"Not in the Pioneers, it isn't, sir" Brian Williams replied, "The service industry is the fastest growing part of our economy. Because they're Pioneers, once they're trained up they'll be getting top salaries running them."

"OK then," Sam said, "Let them choose their own sergeant. Pioneer Smith go and inform them."

He paused and added in a gentler voice "Oh and Jason. Suggest that they choose wisely. Warn them that they don't want me sorting out any problems they might have."

Captain Williams and even Jason managed a grin as Jason left on his errand.

Schooling was next. The older boys would teach the younger ones and oldest of them would have to rely on Sam. Technology was different on the two worlds. Sam's world seemed to have far more mass production while the Pioneers world was more advanced in specialised fields. Sam had assumed that the teleporter was for military use. It was also being developed by Space Agencies to supply their colonies on the moon and on Mars.

Sam's laptop was a marvel to Brian and the Internet was incredible.

I've selected a squad historian, sir." Captain Williams said, "Maybe he could look for the study materials we need and see if there's any teleportation work being done here. I'm not sure where he can work though."

"You're using the second hut as the Adjutant's office and guardroom," Sam said, "We'll set him up in there. I've got a wandering lead he can use for power."

"I don't think Pioneer Tyrone will approve of that, sir." Captain Williams said, "He's training as an electrician and we're all taught not to have loose cables where we could trip over them. I'll detail him to set up a proper supply and in the meantime perhaps the historian could work here between meals."

Sam had spoken with Pioneer Tyrone. He wanted to move to the Lunar colony. Moon explorers used large self contained mobile units using small fusion reaction generators to supply the electric propulsion, operate the air recyclers and other life support systems. Electrical engineers were the elite and had more individual freedom than the rest of the colony.

Pioneer Tyrone already had Pioneer qualifications and could do basic electrical work unsupervised. The problem for Sam was that Pioneer Tyrone was only fourteen years old and Sam was uneasy about letting him loose on the mains supply.

"I've already got the materials," Sam said, "I was going to do most of the work myself and just get a qualified electrician to connect it to the house supply. Pioneer Tyrone can do the installation and we'll talk about the connection then."

"I've got another group of Pioneers to act as house servants. Captain Williams said, "We're putting you to a lot of trouble so it's only right that we help you as best we can."

Sam was overwhelmed by the meeting. He had not believed that a group of boys could be so capable. He glanced across to Pioneer Smith. He was still drawn and haggard looking as if he was still in pain but the redness was fading. His eyes were sharp and clear and there was an alertness about him as he took in the conversation between Sam and Brian.

Sam was with Captain Williams until lunchtime. Sam was going to eat in the solitary splendour of his dining room again with Jason serving him. Jason's own meal would have to fit in with Sam's needs but Sam had decided that he wanted a little company. He ordered Jason to lay a second place and made him sit down.

"I just feel like some company," he said, "Relax and enjoy your meal and I won't ask you how your day's been."

Jason laughed, his cheeky grin restored.

"Thank you, sir," he said, "I'll tell you later when we're in bed. It should turn you on."

They chatted affably over their meal. Jason had no plans for his future. He had known that he was gay since he had linked his increasing number of stiffies to weirder and weirder thoughts about men and never about women.

To Sam's surprise he said, "People don't like us much. Dad said it was because we're less predictable. We don't have to settle down to bring up a family so we don't have the ties to the community. That's why he suggested I join the Pioneers. To prove I have the same commitment to our way of life that others do."

"Do you believe all that?" Sam asked.

"I don't think Dad did completely," Jason replied, "But it was because of the Pioneers that being gay stopped being a crime and gays became partly accepted. Now I'm a Pioneer, if I say I'm gay, someone will say, 'That's OK. At least you're not just thinking about yourself all the time'. Is it like it here, sir."

"I think people here have a different stereotyped image of gays," Sam replied, "It's of someone who's very effeminate making exaggerated gestures from their wrists and stuff like that. Thinking about it they're also portrayed as vain and self-centred so maybe there is that deep down fear. Certainly there's prejudice against gypsies because they don't seem part of the standard format. You know, job, mortgage 2.4 children."

They were silent for a time and all too soon the meal was over and Pioneer Smith was back on duty, standing quietly against the wall.

His afternoon visitor was Pioneer Cracknell. He had been appointed the squads historian and was expected to maintain a log of their time on Sam's property. He was also going to correlate everything they knew about teleportation and learn how to use Sam's computers.

He wanted to be an historian and had agreed with his father that he needed some physical challenges before he settled down in a dusty library. Sam was not sure that he liked the description of academic life but could see the point that a growing boy needed plenty of exercise. His father had been amazed and delighted that he was thriving in the Pioneers while the son used his position as a Pioneer to visit ancient sites, talking to the archaeologists in a way that would be impossible to anyone else his age.

Pioneer Cracknell had already been busy and now had an assistant, Pioneer Travers, one of the boys who had been punished the previous night. Sam noticed that fifteen year old Travers had no trouble deferring to thirteen year old Cracknell. The younger boy was the expert and in the Pioneers it was expertise that counted.

By late afternoon Sam was in deep conversation with Pioneer Thompson who was a self confessed science geek. It was his interest in physics that led to the squad doing a tour of duty at the laboratory.

Sam still saw the Pioneers as kids and tended to use their first names. He saw the look of disapproval in Brian's face whenever he failed to call him Captain Williams and Sam knew that the boy was right. He and Lieutenant Davies had allocated jobs with care. Pioneer Thompson was assigned to Sam as second runner. Pioneer Ralton who had started with that job was now working with the electrician, Pioneer Tyrone.

Pioneer Thompson was a star athlete, football player. He was sexy and he knew it. He expected the best jobs and even Brian and Lieutenant Davies were slightly in awe of him. As such he was a potential troublemaker and the only Pioneer who would dare argue with his superiors.

Brian, Captain Williams had said as much when he had pointed out he was best suited to do any research into teleportation. Captain Williams and Lieutenant Davies also agreed that Sam would sort him out.

Pioneer Thompson did not do anything wrong when he entered Sam's study but Sam noticed the arrogant swagger to his step.

"Why have you been sent to me?" Sam asked.

Pioneer Thompson looked puzzled but answered confidently enough, "To get us home, sir."

The tone of his voice showed that he wanted to say 'idiot' instead of 'sir'.

"No!" Sam exclaimed, "You are here to act as my runner. What were you told exactly and when?"

"I was to report to you as your second runner because I may be able to help you sort the teleportation data."

If you're my second runner, shouldn't you have reported to my first runner instead of disturbing me?"

"Er… I don't think so, sir." Pioneer Thompson replied much less confidently, "Shouldn't I report to the senior officer, first, sir?"

"Not when I don't want to be disturbed," Sam retorted, "I don't mind confidence but you're just a runner, not in charge.

He thought for a moment, "I have problems with your attitude. Do you honestly think you can build a teleporter to get you and your friends home?"

"No sir, I can't." Pioneer Thompson answered dejectedly, "I don't know enough about it but…"

He paused wondering if he should continue.

"Go on," Sam said.

"I do know the most about it and I would like to help, sir." Pioneer Thompson said, "Do you want me stripped and shaved like your other runner?"

"Yes I do," Sam replied, "Pioneer Smith has already been acting as my runner so, when you return, follow his lead."

"You want to say something?" Sam asked Jason after the other boy had left. "You look as though you do."

"Our AIC back home thinks that he deserves special treatment because he wins so many trophies for the squad."

"AIC?" Sam queried.

"Adult In Charge." Pioneer Smith explained.

"And what do you think?"

"I think the AIC liked looking good, sir," Jason said, "The assignment to the laboratory annoyed him. It's taken us out of a lot of competitions which we could have won and he would have got praise for his excellent training. We've missed other opportunities because of it all."

"That's a bit disrespectful isn't it?" Sam asked.

"You asked my opinion, sir," Jason replied, "So I gave it. Sergeant… I mean Captain Williams was considering asking for a new AIC and the squad would have supported him."

Jason's cheeky grin returned.

"This sure is a weird way of getting a new one, sir."

Sam laughed.

"And hopefully it's only temporary," he said.

Pioneer Thompson returned a little later. His skin around his cock was red, as were his legs and Sam was sure that he saw some redness around his armpits. The boy's muscles were developing nicely and like the other Pioneers there was not an ounce of fat on him.

His cock was bigger than average for a boy of his age and uncut while his balls hung low. There was nothing extreme about the boy but he just seemed that much bigger, more developed and, Sam had to admit it, sexier than average.

"OK!" Sam said, "Well done, Pioneer. Now listen carefully. I'm going to relax in the easy chair by the fire. You can relax on the mat in front of the fire and Pioneer Smith will serve us both. You've got some leeway while we're dealing with teleportation but at other times Pioneer Smith will cane you severely if you slip up. Do you understand?"

"Yes sir," Pioneer Thompson said, "I wish our last AIC had."

Sam was beginning to like Pioneer Thompson. It seemed as if he was as uncomfortable with his star status as the other boys were.

OK!" Sam said when they were settled, "I don't know your first name but tell me where we should go with any teleportation project of ours."

"It's David, sir," Pioneer Thompson began, "I don't think we can build a teleporter ourselves. We'd run into the same problems and could end up anywhere. What we could do is build a beacon so that they know that we're alive and well. Then let them do the work."

"Wouldn't it be easier to build a receiver and listen out for them?"

"I suppose we could, sir but what would we be listening out for?"

"Even if we did make contact, it wouldn't mean that they could set up a working link, would it?" Sam said.

"Yes sir, I think it does. One of the scientists described the problem as trying to aim a hosepipe. If you hold it by the nozzle you can direct it fairly well. If you hold it down by the pipe then it will jump all over the place. Our beacon could help stabilise it, sir. I've seen the plans for one to do just that, sir."

The discussion became increasingly technical. Pioneer Cracknell was sent for and using the notes he begun amassing sent for other Pioneers who had learned, overheard or otherwise acquired bits of information.

Pioneer Thompson sent for the largest sheets of paper that could be found so that he could start sketching out plans for the beacon.

He forgot that he was naked, forgot to be scared of Sam, forgot that he was an athletic star with an attitude problem and was simply a young teenager completely absorbed by the problem before him.

They were assembling information that they already had. Teenager's already had a considerable ability to absorb and remember information and whatever else the Pioneers did, it seemed to enhance that ability so Sam thought it best to leave them to it.

He needed fresh air for another reason. Watching Dave Thompson as he wriggled around trying to add parts to his sketches was a turn on. Sometimes he would lie on his side propped up by his arm. His leg would be bent up and his cock rest on his thigh. It was cute rather than sexual since he was too busy to even think about getting hard. At other times he would kneel on all fours, his cock and balls hanging down and his arse cheeks nicely rounded almost in invitation but Sam had to stick to his own rules and would have to wait until Pioneer Thompson had finished working on his plans.

Pioneer Tyrone looked nervous when he saw Sam and hurried over.

"Problems?" Sam asked.

"Yes sir," the boy replied then pointed at some plastic trunking, "I've only just realised that was to house the cables so they're all hidden. I'm sorry, sir. We don't have it back home."

"Let's see what you have done," Sam said.

In fact, Sam was impressed with the work that the boys had done. The huts were wooden cladding over wooden frames. Pioneer Tyrone had fitted each shed with its own fuse box, just as Sam had planned with power sockets and lighting on separate fuses. Sam picked a socket at random and removed it. It was correctly wired with no bare copper visible, earthed and tightly done up.

Conduit ran from shed to shed and then to the house. It was well above head level and again, picking a mounting point at random climbed the ladder to examine it. The back door opened onto a passage between the downstairs bathroom and the kitchen. Two neatly coiled cables protruded from a hole in the wall where the conduit was attached to the house.

"It's all on ring mains, is it?" Sam asked.

"Yes sir," Pioneer Tyrone replied, "The feed to the huts is one and each hut has its own from the fuse box."

"I don't think I'd have gone that far," Sam said, then he caught the boy's look, "Don't worry it's a compliment. You've done a better job than I would have done. Are you finished yet?"

"No sir." Pioneer Tyrone replied. "We should have the sleeping hut done by tonight. Tomorrow, we'll swap it with the Administration hut and finish that. We're converting the third hut into a workshop. There's plenty of space even with all the stuff stored in it. A couple of the boys are building the benches now."

Pioneer Tyrone continued to explain the work they were doing and Sam was impressed.

"Don't worry about the trunking in the huts," Sam said, "You've done a fantastic job. Maybe you and I can risk linking it to the house mains at that socket there. We'll have early supper and knock the power off while everyone's eating. What do you say."

Pioneer Tyrone did not have to say anything. He was grinning from ear to ear. They had been joined by Captain Williams who had stood watching approvingly before approaching Sam.

For a time Sam was involved in helping Brian sort the logistics of looking after twenty hungry, boisterous teenagers. It turned into another long day and Sam was glad everyone began to settle down for the night.

Chapter 3

One unexpected side effect of the days activities was that David Thompson found himself becoming genuinely popular with the other boys. There is a world of difference between hero worship, or being in awe of a star and actually liking someone. David was a nice person and now that he was working with the other boys, they were beginning to discover it. The fact that when he was not working on the beacon he was seen meekly accepting Jason's orders and had endured the same humiliations that Jason had suffered, also helped to make him part of the team.

All of which made it difficult for him to refuse to serve Sam in the bedroom. The squad's original AIC had wanted him and he had made it clear that David should be grateful to him for the special treatment he got.

Back home he could have any girl he wanted and had enjoyed one or two but they scared him slightly. He could have a series of one night stands to satisfy him physically but he was always worried about some sort of emotional entanglement and he was not ready to start handling it. On the other hand he understood boys better and could relax with his fellow pioneers far more easily. They did not seem to demand so much. So what should he do about Sam?

There was something about Sam that he liked and the pros of fully serving him seemed to outweigh the cons but when Sam asked him that evening he had still hesitated.

"I understand, David, " Sam had said, "If you prefer, I'll see you in the morning."

"Oh, I'll serve you, sir," David had replied almost before he had realised that he had made a decision, "You just decided for me."

Puzzled by the reply, Sam did not question the boy guessing that, by not putting pressure on him, David felt more in control and less worried.

Now that he was committed to his role it was easier to accept that Jason was still in charge and that he even needed the younger boy's permission to cum. Just to reinforce that control Jason had decreed that he would only consider permission once for every five times that he himself came.

A soreness and an emptiness down below reminded him that he had to wait for four more times. He had knelt doggy fashion while Jason had fucked him and then lain on his back, legs resting on Sam's shoulders while Sam had fucked him as well. Although not a virgin, he had been glad that Jason had gone first to stretch him a little with his boy cock before Sam entered him. He was sure that that Jason's spunk had lubricated him as well. At least the man slid in and out far easier than he expected and what was more, Sam had watched him and given him as much time as he needed to deal with the invasion.

To his surprise, David had enjoyed the experience to the point where he wondered whether he might be gay or maybe he just rode the waves of pleasure his prostate had rolled out. Whatever the reason, he was happy as Sam's runner and was not going to let him down. He was even going to resist the temptation to slip out to the bathroom and relieve his own throbbing manhood.

He agreed with the other Pioneers that their previous AIC had been no good. David had been embarrassed at being such an obvious favourite. His father was rich and had spoilt David who had joined the Pioneers for the adventure and the chance to mix with boys of his own age instead of having a tutor at home. He was sure that his father had arranged the appointment of the previous AIC to look out for him. What with him and Pioneer Travers, David wondered whether their last AIC took bribes to look after the sons of wealthy parents.

As he listened to Sam's and Jason's gentle breathing and his mind stopped whirling around the previous day's events he finally drifted off to sleep, only to be woken the next morning as he was dragged out of bed by Jason who told him to get ready for the day and report back in twenty minutes. Jason slipped back under the bedclothes and snuggled up to Sam again.

When he returned, he felt the pressure in his cock increase as he watched Sam writhing as Jason's mouth took Sam's manhood. As Sam bucked violently, Jason seemed to suck and swallow before they both collapsed onto the bed.

Sam was content to follow Jason's lead in handling David and smiled quietly to himself as he looked at the older boy's frustration.

"There's time for David to give you head," Sam said, then you need to get started on those errands I gave you. You'll have to sort breakfast as best you can."

He lay back and watched as David knelt in front of Jason and wrapped his mouth around the younger boy. Jason grabbed David's hair and pulled him close so that he could push deeper into David's throat, developing a smooth pumping action that allowed the other boy to breathe and heighten his own sensations. Sam was intrigued by David's submissiveness as Jason's pumping became more forceful and faster. Suddenly Jason seemed to arch his back and pull David even closer to him before relaxing, almost collapsing onto the floor.

During the day, Sam spoke quietly with Jason suggesting that he vary his instructions to David slightly. If David was to service someone else on Jason's orders then that would count as one of the five. David was doing an important job designing the beacon and Sam did not want him to become too distracted by his physical problems.

Brian Williams, the boy in charge of the squad, watched the changes in David with approval. He had lost all his cockiness. Brian smiled to himself as he used the word. He certainly was not cocky as in arrogant but he was certainly cocky as in erection.

Much of the discipline problems had been because of the AIC's favouritism to David. Sam's approach had been much fairer and it was obvious that being his runner was difficult and demanding with David being pushed the hardest. No one wanted to face the uncertainty of the lottery again so they considered it to be in their best interests to cooperate with each other.

A routine developed over the next few days and Sam was delighted at how well they were coping. All the Pioneers spent a couple of hours a day doing physical training and just before lunch, they did an hour's drill. It was the only time that Sam was completely alone and he would sometimes sit outside with a drink and watch.

Only one boy was let off the drill to act as lookout. If anyone turned into the lane that led to the property then it was the sentries job to warn them. The Adjutant rotated the sentry roster so that each boy only missed one drill session in twenty. The P.T. was split according to age so there was always someone available.

The most frequent visitor was the postman. Sam got mail most days though most of it was junk. The postman never saw anyone but always had the uncanny feeling that he was being watched and was glad to get away. Unexpected visitors were usually intercepted by an extremely polite, casually dressed young man who explained that he was getting work experience by helping his uncle during the Summer. Captain Brian Williams always wore 'local clothes' rather than Pioneer uniform. As he put it, normally, Pioneers did not have the rank of Captain or even Acting Captain so he could choose his own uniform.

In spite of his difficulties on the first trip he always went shopping with Sam, leaving the Adjutant in civvies. He would take three other pioneers and they would visit a different supermarket or shopping centre each time. No one seemed to notice that they were doing a months shopping every week and no one commented on the number of friends Brian had.

Sam had never known his house to be so clean, meals to be so punctual nor the grounds to be so well kept.

Whenever things go well for a time, people start to drop their guard and it was how a couple of village lads caught them out. They had been playing around in some nearby woods and were trying to get to the road so they cut across the fields and skirted around Sam's property.

It was late afternoon and the younger pioneers were doing their P.T. It was a warm day, they were still buying extra clothing so the half dozen or so boys were working out naked. Someone noticed the village boys and sent some older Pioneers to intercept them. It was not clear whether the village boys were fascinated by the nudity, the discipline or the exercises. All they knew was that suddenly there were a couple of fit young men behind them, they were being politely but very firmly asked to accompany the Pioneers and that running did not seem like an option.

The village boys found themselves escorted to a hut that reminded one of them of a military guardroom. They were stood in front of a table while their captors explained to the Adjutant why they had been detained.

So far as the village boys were concerned, one of their captors was sent off to find someone else and another boy, the oldest they had seen so far, arrived.

"Hi," the newcomer said, "I'm Brian Williams. I'm sorry about the way you've been treated but you took us by surprise."

"I'll bet we did," one of the village boys retorted., "What's going on here?"

"Mr. Jameson will be coming shortly," Brian replied, "In the meantime, would you like a drink?"

"No and I'm not hanging around here. You can't make me," the boy snapped, "You'd better not try and stop me."

It was pure bravado. The boy was scared and wanted to get away.

"Yes of course," Sam said. He had arrived a little before and had heard the boy, "You're Joe Hargreaves aren't you? Your mother arranges the flower in the church. Captain Williams, see that he's escorted to the gate."

"Captain Williams?" Joe exclaimed, "What the fuck is going on here?"

"It's rather a long story," Sam said, "You could join me for afternoon tea but if you have to get away, then I do understand."

Sam's voice was calm and relaxed and Joe's curiosity was now competing with his nervousness.

The other boy had remained silent and impassive, content to follow Joe's lead but he unexpectedly piped up, "Come on Joe, let's hear all about it. This all so weird and if they wanted to hurt us we could be dead already."

"OK then," Joe replied, "You got any cola? I don't like tea."

Once they were settled and the village boys had stopped staring at Jason's nudity, Sam began his explanation.

"They call themselves Pioneers," Sam began, "Don't worry if they go around naked. We're still organising supplies and we've still got a shortage of clothes. Nudity's not a problem where they come from so it helps to preserve what clothes they have."

He paused but before Joe could ask a question he continued. "You won't have heard of the Pioneers because they come from a long way away. They were helping some adults when an experiment went wrong and the Pioneers ended up here. I'm not sure if you'll believe me if I described the experiment so we'll leave it for later.

"They'll be staying here until we can get them home and if the police, social services or anyone else got to know about them they would be put into care and split up. It would be disastrous and if we lost track of them then they'd never get home."

"Are you trying to tell me that they're a bunch of E.T.s and all they want to do is phone home," Joe asked sceptically.

"No," Sam said, "They're human just like you and me. It's just that the authorities won't like where they come from."

"You mean somewhere like Russia," Joe asked, "They don't look like Arabs or Chinese. They speak English so are they spies?"

"No. They're English," Sam replied.

"I like science fiction," the other boy said, again speaking up when no one was expecting it, "You're making it sound as if they come from another dimension. You know, like us but not quite the same."

"And would you believe me if I said it was true, er…?" Sam asked.

"I'm Ricky," the boy answered, "That sort of stuff doesn't happen in real life but it's fun thinking it could."

"Supposing I said that I can't give you the true answer but if you go along with the alternative world idea it would cover all the problems we have?" Sam asked.

"We don't have to believe that they come from a different Earth just pretend that they do."

It sounded more like a question than a statement so Sam nodded. He had been watching Joe as he considered the idea.

"It even sounds crazy to pretend," he said at last, "Are you sure that they don't do gay stuff?"

"From what I can tell, three quarters of the Pioneers have followed their fathers into it," Sam said, "Does it sound gay to you?"

Joe shrugged. "You've still got a naked boy running around after you. That's a bit kinky."

"At times, I have two of them," Sam said, "The other one is trying to build a beacon; trying to phone home if you like."

"And do they think it's wrong for a man to have sex with them?" Ricky asked.

Sam had assumed that Ricky was the timid one living behind his friends bravado. Instead it appeared that he was the thinker with a razor sharp mind.

"Not if they consent then no," Sam replied.

"So you do have kinky gay sex," Joe said triumphantly, "I knew it."

"It's normal on their world," Ricky said, "To them, It must seem kinky having to hide it. You wanted me to suck your cock when we were in the woods. You can't think gay sex is that bad."

Joe blushed bright red and glared furiously at Ricky. For a time Sam thought that Joe was going to attack Ricky before he calmed down.

"I was only joking," Joe mumbled.

"Half joking," Ricky corrected, "You wouldn't have complained if I'd agreed."

Ricky looked about fourteen and Joe about sixteen. At first Sam had assumed that Ricky was a little in awe of the older boy but their relationship was far more complicated. Ricky probably was content to follow the older boy's lead in some ways, maybe to learn from him, but he was the more intelligent and the dominant partner when it counted. Sam could imagine Joe getting them into trouble, which Ricky enjoyed and then Joe would rely on Ricky to get them out of the mess.

"If you want to know what a blow job feels like, maybe this is your chance to find out because I'm not going to do it," Ricky continued, "Carry on with the attitude and you'll blow it and I think that I could have phrased that better."

Sam grinned.

"The only thing we ask is that you keep your mouths shut," he said, "Our security fouled up so it's our problem. Will you help us?"

Joe turned to Ricky allowing him to answer for him as well.

"On one condition," Ricky replied, "You tell us the truth."

"Let's stick with the parallel world story for now," Sam said, "Call it a working hypothesis. As you learn more so you'll understand the truth better."

"You mean we can come back?" Joe asked, "How come?"

"If you've got questions about us, I'd rather you asked them here," Sam replied, "Don't say anything in the village or to anyone else, please."

"We won't," Ricky said firmly, "Can we stay for a while now, please? Can we meet some of the guys?"

Sam nodded, suggesting that they start with the Adjutant. Almost at once Brian was in front of him hoping for a word.

"I'm sorry about this, sir," he said, "We should have had lookouts. What do we do now?"

"The safest thing is to keep them," Sam replied, "I don't mean physically. Let them become part of the team. You can't make them do anything but try to make it clear that orders apply to them as well. Ricky could prove useful. He probably knows about computers and the Internet so he could help David. Joe is more action than thinker. He might like the physical training side of things."

"New recruits are supposed to have a physical, sir." Captain Williams said, "If there's no medical problems then they're put on a training programme to bring them up to scratch. They're also supposed to learn the basic drill movements."

"I think you've got Pioneers who've done medic courses," Sam said, "I know they don't even have a stethoscope but between them, our guests and you, see if you can't come up with a plan."

Captain Williams saluted.

"Yes sir," he said.

Sam's plan worked better than he ever expected. Joe even phoned his parents, explained that Mr Jameson's nephews were visiting together with some of their friends for a summer camp out and he had been invited to join them.

Joe's mother insisted on speaking with Sam. No, Joe would not be any trouble. Yes, he would send Joe home if he did not behave.

It was the usual phone call of a parent worried that their child was making a nuisance of himself until the question of supplies came up. Sticking to the Uncle/nephew story, Sam admitted that the camp out was far bigger than he expected because he had not thought to limit the number of friends they could invite. Joe's mother immediately offered to take Sam to the local Cash and Carry so he could stock up at cost price.

Over the next few weeks, Sam was to get to know Joe's mother, Anne, very well. She said something about visiting but Joe indignantly pointed out that he did not want to be the only boy being fussed over by his mother.

After the first night, Ricky decided that he would like to stay. His parents breathed a quiet sigh of relief that he would be occupied during the Summer holiday and could concentrate on their own lives. It was not that they did not love their son, they just wanted to concentrate on Ricky's father's career and a bit socialising could prove useful.

As Sam had hoped Ricky found himself becoming fascinated by the building of the beacon and now accepted that the Pioneers came from an alternative Earth while Joe got involved with obtaining supplies and even took small groups into the village where the Pioneers quickly got a reputation for politeness and a willingness to help. Joe had offered to mow an elderly neighbours lawn. With the help of a couple of his new friends he not only mowed the lawn, he weeded the flower beds and repaired a broken fence and gate.

Word got around and soon they had built up a little garden maintenance business. Captain Williams insisted that Sam receive all the money to cover his costs though they did buy little luxuries for their accommodation hut.

Joe also enjoyed the physical training, adapted to being naked around the other boys when they were showering or getting ready for bed and especially the relaxed bodily contact that they enjoyed. Most boys want to check out their classmates in the school showers, desperately hoping that they don't get an erection at that particular moment. When Joe realised that the Pioneers considered both activities natural and that they were free to explore their sexuality without any embarrassment he found himself relaxing as never before.

Ricky found stripping naked for his physical highly embarrassing. The best that the medic could do was check his pulse, put his ear to Ricky's chest to listen to his heart and check him for hernias. He was also able to appraise Ricky's muscle development and suggested a series of exercises to help build him up. Like everything else to do with the Pioneers, the medic knew far more than simple first aid. He would have spotted any suspicious lumps or bumps, and any other tell tale signs of trouble that can manifest themselves. Even back home he would not have been allowed to treat them but he could send the boy concerned to a doctor. Ricky's problem had been that the exam had been carried out in the accommodation hut and other Pioneers were sitting around watching while others were coming and going.

His embarrassment faded when they realised that he had a problem and a couple stripped off and allowed themselves to examined first so that he knew what to expect. One of them got hard, with his cock almost pressed against his belly as he stood there. Like Joe, Ricky came to realise that he had nothing to be ashamed of and felt his own cock begin to swell and the medic nodded in approval.

So far as Sam was concerned, work on the beacon was proceeding well. David had decided that his design had all the elements needed to make it work and the overall design fitted in with the information that all the other Pioneers had gleaned. With Ricky's help he was well on the the way to obtaining the materials he needed and he would be able start assembling it within a week.

Whenever he had time off, he spent it with Joe. They were both fascinated by the sexual opportunities they had but were both uncertain about their own personal sexuality. David asked to be relieved of his duties as Sam's runner and Sam agreed. David and Joe never shared a sleeping bag but everyone assumed what they were doing when they went off together alone.

Sam suggested that Jason should consider who he wanted to help him but the boy never got around to suggesting a name and seemed happy to be on call twenty four hours a day. David had given him a chance to adapt to accepting Sam's cock and that was all he had needed.

Morale amongst the boys was good. There had been no serious trouble and only one boy had been punished since that first night. It had been a combination of things, a little too much hard work in the sun, a mild rebuke because he had been late sitting down for lunch and an innocent comment about how digging the garden was taking longer than expected. It all built up in the boy and he had sworn at Lieutenant Davies, the adjutant.

It happened on the second day that Joe and Ricky stayed and, that evening, they assembled in the Administration Hut that evening to watch the punishment.

They stared wide wide-eyed as the boy fell out from the squad, stripped and bent over the barrel, allowing himself to be tied down. Among the tasks the boys had carried out had been the construction of a paddle. It had been made from a piece of oak and the blade drilled with holes. It was thick, heavy and whistled as it was swung through the air and landed with a slap that startled everyone.

The boy being punished yelled with shock, then pain as the pain developed. By the fifth stroke he was screaming and crying uncontrollably. His backside was a vivid purple and he struggling futilely against his bonds. By the tenth and final stroke he was nearly exhausted, lying limply just flinching as the blow landed.

He was released and his closest friends rushed over to help him, congratulating him on taking his punishment so well and helping him to his sleeping bag.

The Pioneers had been staying with Sam for nearly three weeks before David finally announced that the beacon was ready for testing.

"Do you think we'll be home by tonight, sir?" one of the younger ones asked Sam.

"I think you're looking at weeks, possibly a couple of months," Sam replied. "The beacon will probably need some sort of calibration, we don't know how strong, weak or broken up the signal will be at the other end. Someone will have to recognise it for what it is and reconfigure their equipment and they'll want to carry out tests to make sure that it's safe before letting humans use it."

Sam glanced at the crest fallen boy.

"Don't look so sad," he continued, "I'm just saying that there's a lot to do and we've made a good start. Who knows, something may happen today."

The Pioneer grinned, saluted politely and strode away. Sam's comment spread around the Pioneers and the Sam could almost feel the tension when David switched the beacon on. Nothing happened until, nearly a minute later, the boys gulped in large lungfuls of air and started breathing again.

So far as the beacon was concerned, the correct indicator glowed green, nothing was smoking, burning out or doing anything to cause alarm and David seemed satisfied that it was working. On the other hand it was doing nothing to show that it was working properly and there was no way of telling whether the signal was travelling across the dimensions as intended.

"Let's have a party," Sam said to Brian, "You're in charge but why not celebrate the switch on. It might give the idea that it's only the first phase completed."

"It wouldn't be a party without having guests, sir," Brian replied, "Could we have a squad dinner, please sir, complete with wine and port?"

"Beer afterwards?" Sam teased.

"No thank you sir," Brian replied seriously, "we're only allowed that if there's no parade the next day."

Since it was going to be as well organised as everything else the Pioneers did, Sam did not see a problem. It was enough of a change to get the boys excited and cope with the anti climax from the big switch on.

When Jason presented himself to Sam in his full uniform, he looked self-conscious, he had become so used to being naked. Sam formally dismissed him for the evening and, for the first time since the Pioneers had arrived he looked forward to spending an evening alone.

He was not alone for long before Captain Williams arrived to take him to the dinner.

"I thought this was for the boys," Sam protested, "At least Pioneers only."

"But you're the AIC, sir," Brian replied, "Of course you're expected."

"In that case, Captain, I'll be pleased to attend."

It was a warm evening so they would eat outside. They had made up a series of trestle tables from the scrap wood that had been stored in the huts before their arrival and arranged them into a hexagonal shape with the bottom bar missing. Sam, Captain Williams and the Adjutant sat at the centre table and the rest of the boys sat around the outside of the others. The three cooks sat at a smaller table on the sixth side leaving them room to enter the centre space so that they could serve.

As always Sam was impressed with the organisation and the smooth running of the evening even to the point when Captain Williams asked him if he would like to propose a toast or make a speech.

Sam stood up.

"It is customary to make loyal toasts on an evening like this but it may be wiser to dispense with them on this occasion. I'm not sure if there are two Elizabeth Ils or just one. We're hiding from one or part of her authorities so we can't be clear who we are toasting. Let's call it the first tradition of inter-dimensional travel."

The boys seemed to agree with him. It seemed to help them that Sam was thinking of their unusual situation.

"I would like to propose a vote of thanks to the three cooks who are still working while the rest of us are relaxing and enjoying ourselves."

He held up his glass and said, "The cooks."

The rest of the boys stood and repeated his toast while the cooks sat blushing bright red and grinning from ear to ear.

"We are a unit and we have a mission to get you home so I give you a second toast, The Mission."

The boys almost yelled out their response and then sat back down chattering happily amongst themselves. It was a successful evening with everyone tired but happy.

When Sam finally made his way to his bedroom he was surprised to find David, as well as Jason waiting for him.

"Please sir," David said, "I think I'll go mad if anyone else says don't worry, you've done your best."

Sam chuckled to himself.

"I understand," he said, "You appreciate their kindness but it's stopping you from moving on."

"Yes sir. That's it exactly. I'd rather that they were asking what I'm going to do next."

"How about Joe?" Sam asked, "Don't you want to be with him?"

"He's still uncomfortable with the sex stuff, sir, David replied, "He won't sleep with me because the others would know."

"Jason, tonight you are David's slave. Take him to the bedroom next door and see that he has everything he needs. David get some rest. Forget about the beacon and give it a chance to do its stuff. Relax until about midday then come and see me. At some point we'll have to start thinking what we should do next if it isn't working properly. What tests, repairs or modifications could we try but let's give it a bit of time before we start worrying."

"Yes sir," David replied, "Could I sleep in the accommodation hut and do the early morning run with the others, please? I can pass on your order to forget about the beacon."

"If that's what you want, then OK," Sam said, "Tell the Adjutant that you're on hard labour until you come to see me. Will that help?"

David grinned ruefully.

"They say that you should never volunteer," he chuckled, "But it'll be a break from being stuck in that work room, sir and Jason won't kill me for keeping him from you."

Jason stuck his tongue out at David and grinned shyly. The aunt and uncle that he lived with were not unkind but were cold remote people, unable to show their feelings. They even had trouble showing affection to their own children. Sam was warm and affectionate. He might punish Jason severely for any transgression but he could also hold him gently making his affection for the boy obvious. The other Pioneers could see that they loved each other and approved especially as Sam did not seem to spoil his boy.

Sam had never considered himself a master or thought that he was into the scene in any way but he had learnt something about himself and with Jason being a willing slave he enjoyed the control and power he exerted over the boy. He had come to look forward to seeing the fear in the boy's eyes when he was about to inflict some new punishment or torture and loved to watch the trapped body wriggling and writhing, trying to escape.

Jason knew that whenever the others saw him walking stiffly and in pain or discomfort they admired his strength and courage. They looked at Sam a little fearfully when they saw the purple bruises on his backside or welts on his back, relieved that it was not them acting as Sam's runner.

On the positive side, Jason got to leave the property with Sam more often than others. He often missed out on drill and exercise sessions and he knew more about this strange world than any of the other Pioneers and he loved the attention Sam gave him.

Of all the Pioneers, Jason was the least thrilled the next morning when Joe rushed up to Sam to report that he had seen a bright flash and an object about the size of a shoebox had appeared in a blue glowing sphere that had slowly faded.

Sam hurried over to examine it only to find all the Pioneers gathered around in a circle staring at the object which was lying beside the beacon.

"What do think, Captain Williams?" Sam asked formally.

Brian saluted equally formally.

"It's got Pioneer insignia on it and it's addressed to Sergeant Williams, 1274 Pioneer Group, sir. The beacon was transmitting our squads call sign so someone has recognised it. It's just…"

Brian faltered, for once looking like a little boy lost.

"Go on," Sam said quietly.

"Supposing it's not our home, sir," he said desperately, "Supposing it's another Earth that's lost some Pioneers. We've talked about what's happened and what it all means, sir."

"I warned you before you switched the beacon on that you could be in for a long drawn out process," Sam said, "If they can send stuff, ask for some history books. If you find some discrepancies then maybe it is a different world but at least they would be better equipped to help you find the right world because it would be a world that understands what happened to you."

"Yes sir," Brian acknowledged, "I was thinking much the same thing. I just needed to hear it from you."

The rest of the Pioneers had been listening to their conversation and seemed happy enough. They were excited that something had happened, pleased that they were at least a step closer to getting home and not too disappointed that it was still an uncertain journey.

Jason stood in front of Sam who wrapped his arms around the boy and pulled him close.

"I'm going to miss you, Jason, " Sam said.

Jason leant backwards, pressing his back into Sam.

"Maybe I should stay," he said, "I'm a slave, don't forget. I can't go without you freeing me."

"Oh no!" Sam exclaimed, "You're a Pioneer first. You arrived with the squad, you should leave with the squad. That's only right and proper."

"Then come with us," Jason said, "You've said that you've got nothing to keep you here. The Pioneers will look after you the way that you've looked after us. I could resign and be your permanent slave."

"Excuse me sir," Captain Williams interrupted, "That wouldn't be necessary. He could be on permanent attachment to you. He'd still get his Pioneer education and qualifications."

"I know it's different on your world but wouldn't his parents or the authorities object?" Sam asked.

"They would if he resigned," Brian Williams replied, "He'd lose his adult status and the support he'd need if things went wrong."

"I'm not sure if I understand that."

"A Pioneer has adult status and can make a lot decisions about their future that other kids can't and that includes sex stuff. If he makes a mistake and it all goes wrong he gets all the help and support he needs to sort himself out. I got involved with a girl once and then got together with her mother. It was a mistake and got messy but the Pioneers looked after me and didn't make me feel bad. Pioneers get into all sorts of trouble and have to sort it out but we always get help."

"What happens to non Pioneers who get into the same sort of trouble?" Sam asked.

"They seem to have different attitudes," Brian replied, "We know each other better, have fewer secrets and we're taught to build on it. Jason wants to be your slave. He gets something out of it, so do you and it hasn't stopped him being a good Pioneer. If you did come back with us then why shouldn't he stay with you?"

"Because I might be tempted to install a dungeon in my house and really go to town on him."

"Judging by the way his cock's twitching I'd say go for it," Brian grinned raising chuckles amongst the other Pioneers, "If you did come we'd still want you for our AIC."

Sam did not understand the Pioneers world. Civilisation had nearly ended in a Great War that had lasted for a dozen years. Ninety years later, it was still recovering and attitudes seemed entirely different. There seemed to be far less trade between countries so everyday items here seemed like luxuries there. In many ways they seemed stuck in the 1940s or 50s yet in others seemed very advanced and ahead of his own world.

Part of the solution seemed to lie in the esteem that the Pioneers were held because of their history of service to the troops. The other part of the solution seemed to lie in the need for skilled workers to continue the recovery. The country needed the best from its youngsters and did not question anything that achieved that. Schools and youth clubs pushed kids in other ways. The Pioneers was voluntary and it worked so if the youngsters were willing to tolerate the physical demands then good luck to them.

Sam could see the sense in the arguments. The discipline problems on the first day had been down to bad leadership causing resentment. Acting Captain Brian Williams was not adverse to administrating the odd few strokes of the cane but he did so sparingly and fairly. It had made a deep impression on the boys that he had accepted his own punishment without complaint.

Joe had objected to toilet cleaning duty. As an inhabitant of this Earth he had little understanding of the traditions of the Pioneers or corporal punishment. Brian had quietly explained that he could leave or accept his punishment. He should go for a long walk while he thought about it and not come back until he had made his decision.

When he returned he consented to be punished.

Captain Williams nodded as if he had expected no less.

"Normally that sort of outburst would get you a double punishment plus an extra for the foul language," Brian said, "AIC Jameson has pointed out that you don't have physical punishment here so I'll only give you a half punishment instead of all three. That's three strokes instead of eighteen. The balance will be added to any future punishments.

Joe swallowed nervously but saw David looking at him encouragingly. David was the main reason that he was consenting to be caned. They had formed a strong friendship which Joe had never experienced before. At first, Joe had denied being gay but now he was not so sure. He was certainly far more relaxed about his body around David and he was not adverse to fooling around.

Late at night when they were quietly chatting the boys often talked about getting hard while they were being caned. They all had stories about boys who found it such an intense experience they kept getting into trouble just to experience it again. Joe did not believe them feeling totally embarrassed as he dropped his trousers and underwear before bending over the table. He had instinctively wanted to protect his cock so it was sandwiched between his stomach and the table.

And with each movement it twitched. He tensed his muscles as he heard the cane swish through the air and as the blood began to gather in his lower regions to deal with the expected pain he found himself getting hard. He relaxed as the swishing stopped and tensed again as he again heard the swish.

He relaxed again as Brian completed his second practice swing and found himself staying relaxed as he heard the third.

He was completely unprepared for the fourth swing landing on his backside and the pain that spread like fire outwards from the welt. David was holding his hands tightly across the table and all Joe could do was wriggle to ease the pain. To his horror, Joe found himself fully hard. With his nerves and senses stretched taut dealing with the pain he felt ready to burst. The second blow made him yell and then to his complete humiliation he came, feeling the warm goo spread across his tummy.

The third blow did not seem to hurt so much as Joe almost hoped that his punishment would go on rather than having to stand up and display what had happened.

"You see, you do get something out of our punishments," David laughed, as he fetched a towel.

Joe scowled, then grinned sheepishly as he held his shirt up to his chest away from the mess. David tenderly wiped him clean then the table.

"Maybe I should take a belt to you at times," David said, still giggling, "If you managed all that with three just think about what could happen with twenty.

Joe grimaced, rubbing his backside.

"Just keep thinking," he said, "I don't want to find out for real."

After the party things had settled down again but a couple of days later a new box arrived in it's blue aura. Inside a small compartment in the box was a telephone handset.

Captain Williams took it to Sam.

"What do we do, sir?" he asked.

"Well," replied Sam mock seriously, "We can either wait for it to ring or we can pick it up and see if anyone's waiting for a call."

Brian Williams grinned sheepishly. It was a big moment and somehow he had expected the decisions to be equally big. It was a bit of a let down to realise that the problem was so simple.

"Maybe we should pick it up, sir," he said, "Just to check it."

"All yours, Captain," Sam said.

Brian looked nervous and excited at the same time as he picked the handset up.

"Hallo," he said.

"Hello." A voice replied, "Can I speak to Sergeant Williams, please."

"I'm Captain… I mean Acting Captain… No I'm Sergeant Williams," he stammered, "AIC Jameson created acting ranks for me and the Adjutant to help with the organisation."

"I see," the voice said, "AIC Hodges is here, waiting to talk to you. Who is AIC Jameson?"

"He owns the property we landed on, here," Brian replied, "He was the senior adult here when we arrived and that's who we were ordered to report to."

"OK! That's Pioneer business," the voice said, "I'm working on the transporter project and at the moment we're concentrating on getting you home. Can we speak with our counterparts there. We may be able to share data."

"We don't know of anyone working on transporter technology here. We've checked the Internet and can't find any trace of it."

"What's the Internet," the technician asked.

"Communications technology," Brian replied, "It relies on loads of mass produced parts and equipment which we don't have."

"So who built your communicator?" the voice asked.

"We did," Brian replied, "Pioneer David Thompson headed up the technical team and put together everything we've learned about the project."

"Bloody hell. I knew you Pioneers were good but I didn't know that you were that good," the technician said, "Was it their idea to modulate the trans-dimensional induction?"

"I think so but haven't you done same the same thing?"

The voice sounded a little embarrassed.

"It hadn't occurred to us before we'd heard your message." It became businesslike again, "OK. We've been doing some tests. With a receiver at both ends the link seems stable. We need to analyse the data we have already more thoroughly then maybe do some fine tuning with your technical team. While that's going on, is there anything you need?"

"Can you get a message to the Regional Commandant's office, please. The squad wants Mr. Jameson as its AIC and we'd like it ratified as soon possible. On AIC Jameson's orders we've kept a log of our time here. As I've mentioned, we've changed the rank structure but now we're back in contact we need official permission and the log explains everything."

"OK!" the technician said, "And as I've mentioned, AIC Hodges is here and we also have a representative of the Regional Commandant's office here. I'll put him on."

The conversation was very similar to one that Brian had just had with the technician. Pioneer Cracknell was sent for and he read spent the next couple of hours reading his log into the headset.

It was not completely unexpected when Sam was handed the phone but he was startled to be suddenly included in the conversation.

"I am Captain Heinred of the Commandant's office," the man at the other end said, "On behalf of Commandant Rogers, I'd like to thank you for taking such good care of the Pioneers. It must have been a shock when they appeared like that."

"It was," Sam confirmed, "but they're a great bunch of kids and it's been a pleasure having them. It won't be the same when they're gone. What sort of time scale are we talking about here?"

"It's difficult to say." Captain Heinred replied, "We think we've found out why the transporter jumps around but this time we're not going to take any chances and it's going to be a slow process testing it. If problems show up then the recovery date will be put back until they're resolved."

Captain Heinred paused.

"I'm looking at the rough transcript of the log. I can confirm you as AIC, immediately, subject to the usual evaluation period. The acting ranks you have given are a problem. Pioneer ranks end where adult ranks begin. You are now a lieutenant and you have a Pioneer Captain. I suggest we recognise them as Field Cadet ranks. We can hardly ignore the work they've done in these ranks so we'll sort something permanent when they return.

"The next thing is payment. You can't continue paying for their keep indefinitely. The boffins say that it is perfectly possible to transfer goods so would a gold shipment be acceptable?"

"I don't see any problem with that," Sam said, "There's no rush though. I suggest you have a word with the Adjutant and see if the boys need anything urgently. Messages from home would be good.

On Sam's instructions, the equipment was transferred to the Administration hut and left it to the Adjutant to maintain communications. Most of the Pioneers had gathered outside his house, desperate for information. If the communicator continued to work then they would have badly needed contact with their families and friends.

Jason stayed dutifully with Sam. He seemed to be almost sad.

"What's the problem?" Sam asked.

Jason was silent for a long time.

"My parents were killed in a crash just after I joined the Pioneers," he whispered, "I lived with my Aunt and Uncle after that. They already had children and they saw me as taking stuff that they could give to them. My cousins didn't like me moving in on them either. I don't have any other family so I've only had the Pioneers until I met you."

"I'm hardly treating you like family," Sam said, "You're a slave and bend over to get fucked whenever I say."

"And you'll whip me just because you feel like it," Jason said, "But you're still asking me what's wrong and you do care about what's bothering me. The Pioneers are OK but it's not like belonging to someone."

"OK!" Sam said, "Two things we've got to think about very carefully. Do you want to stay with me full time . If the answer is yes then do you want to be my son or my slave. When you get the chance to go home, you'll have to make a decision that you'll live with for the rest of your life."

"I've seen stuff for sale on the Internet," Jason said without hesitating, "I'd like a big metal collar, that's locked in place with 'Property of Sam Jameson' stamped on it."

"That seems positive enough," Sam chuckled, "Fetch an indelible marker pen from my study. If you do I'll write 'Slave Jason' over your left nipple and 'Property of Sam Jameson' over your right. Let's see what your Pioneer friends make of it. We'll order your collar when you're marked"

Sam expected Jason to hesitate or back down but he hurried off to obey. It was Sam who needed time so he hurried off to find Brian Williams.

"You're giving him chances to back out so what's the problem?" Brian asked, "He knows what he's letting himself in for. It's you who's uncertain isn't it?"

"I suppose so," Sam agreed, "Our attitudes to sex are so different to yours. It will be difficult explaining where he came from. It's lucky that our worlds are so different. We're not likely to meet ourselves but it's possible. Apart from that supposing we can't stay together. He might have to leave for a number of reasons."

"Why don't you come with us?" Brian asked, "You could sell up, buy gold and settle down on our world. The Pioneers would look after you and you'd be able to work in communications like you do now. Jason could wear his collar and tell the world that he belongs somewhere."

"Like I said, there may be reasons why we can't change worlds permanently," Sam said, "If that's true then if we started something we couldn't finish he'd be even unhappier than he is now."

"The Pioneers expect you to be honest with him," Brian said, "If you don't want a long term relationship with him then say so. If you do want one then he's made it clear what sort of relationship he wants. Can you give it to him? If you do get together with him then the next day you could be run over by a bus. You can't predict the future so worry about today."

"Such wisdom from one so young," Sam laughed, "I wonder if the transporter can handle container loads of computer chips."

Chapter 4

"You have a choice to make," Sam said, "Keep the rights you have as a Pioneer or surrender them to become my boy with no rights. Whatever your decision, you are making it in front of your comrades. Choose wisely, honestly and with courage so that your friends will respect your decision."

Sam wondered whether his little speech was too melodramatic but as he looked around he saw everyone looking grave and serious as they waited for Jason's reply. Kneeling on the table he was just high enough and separated enough to feel exposed and alone. His knees were were hurting a little pressed against the hard wooden surface. He knew that Sam was giving him a final chance to back out but it did not even occur to him.

"I'm yours, Master," he said.

"In return, I'll be here to look after you for as long as fate and the laws of the Universe allow and for as long as you need me," Sam promised solemnly, "Do you accept?"

He felt a mild urge to giggle at his own pompous sounding words but Jason and the others were still taking the ceremony very seriously..

"Yes Master," Jason replied solemnly.

Sam picked up the pen and wrote on Jason's chest as he had threatened. As he put the pen down, the rest of the Pioneers broke into spontaneous applause.

Ignoring Jason and leaving him kneeling on the table, Sam suggested that they enjoy the remainder of the evening with a little party. It was significant because on all other special occasions, Jason would be released from his duties and allowed to join in. Now he could not even talk to his friends without his Master's permission. He had also been able to say what Pioneer activities he wanted to be involved with. Now he could only listen as Sam and the Adjutant reviewed his schedule and modified it. The changes were not great but it emphasised his new situation.

It dawned on Jason that one of the biggest changes was going to be the loss of his social life. He would no longer be allowed time to visit the Pioneers when they relaxed in the evening. They would not poke fun at him for his choice or humiliate him for making the decision he had made. That would not be the Pioneer way but by respecting his choice they could no longer treat him as their equal. He wanted to be a slave, so be it. That is how they would treat him.

That evening Sam ordered the collar that Jason wanted and unbeknown to Jason, a chastity device as well as some other toys. He was still uncomfortable with the authorities on Jason's home world knowing about their activities. It was difficult for him to accept that they could be so relaxed about it and he had no intention of expanding their games though he found himself looking through web sites selling various whips, paddles and canes. He had also started thinking of Jason hanging by his arms, legs spread and completely exposed to him.

To his surprise it seemed that Jason had been looking at similar sites and the browser history showed visits to sites involving bondage that he had not even heard of. Sam was confident now that Jason knew what he wanted and Sam also knew that he was going to enjoy giving it to him. All he had to do was shake off his worries about the reactions of the authorities and the boy's family.

The two way communications proved stable and a great morale booster. The boys could speak to their families and the classroom lessons could be monitored by tutors on the Pioneer staff. Two new ranks were created. Senior Warrant Officer and Junior Warrant Officer. Brian and the Adjutant were formally given those ranks.

For a time the communications was tied up with the boys needs which Sam understood so he was surprised when the handset was passed over to him and Captain Heinred asked whether he given any thought about moving to their world.

"We've been asked to make you a proposition," he said, "Your world has made considerable advances in electronics and are well ahead of us in some respects. You're also ahead in many aspects of medicine. It would be to our advantage to use your property as an outpost, using it for trade and acquiring some of your knowledge and we'd like you to take charge of the project. You understand your world better than we do and you've shown your abilities by the way you've looked after the Pioneers.

"We would supply you with a house here and find a couple of other Pioneers with similar inclinations to you and Jason to act as household staff. I understand that a couple of local boys have been accepted by the squad. If they're agreeable then they could be properly enrolled and hired as staff at your end."

"Are you suggesting that I take a job commuting between dimensions?" Sam asked, "That's preposterous."

"Why?" Captain Heinred retorted before chuckling, "Do you have a saying about getting the best of both worlds? You could do it literally. The boffins here were working on a military transporter. The idea was that it could suddenly materialise and troops pour out of it. It's never going to work, at least, not without a hell of a lot more research but you've shown that a locking beacon at the receiving end makes the transporter completely stable. It works by bending through multiple dimensions and it's proving just as reliable when the transmission and reception are in different ones."

"Granted that it works," Sam replied, "I don't know about energy costs or other expenses but are you going to let me use your only working model as my own personal transport?"

"Don't forget, we want to benefit from the technology on your world. We'd be getting something in return."

"I'll think about it," Sam said, "The idea seems too fantastic."

"So what do you think, Jason?" Sam asked when they were alone in bed that night. Do you think I should accept the job?"

"I can't wear this collar in your world, can I, Master?" Jason replied, "I can't tell people that I belong to you. I hoped you would come with us but it would be a big step. This way you wouldn't be cut off from your home."

Providing they can make the transporter stable," Sam said, "I could offer Joe a job as handyman here. He's played truant and lost too much schooling so he won't be going back next year yet he seems happy enough with the Pioneers."

Jason giggled.

"It's David," he said, "Both of them reckon they're straight and talk about girls all the time. The trouble is, they've been caught out a couple of times and they've both had things that girls can't give them."

Sam chuckled along with Jason.

"As long as they're happy. How about Ricky?"

"He goes along with things. He's not shy about getting hard any more and he'll let someone jerk him off but if you really want to get him rock solid, talk about girl's breasts."

"So could I hire him part time after school to help Joe?"

"Oh yes! He can't wait to see the laboratory at home."

The collar had arrived had arrived that morning and Jason had worn it proudly from the moment Jason had fitted it. He had been intrigued by the ring that Sam had fitted around his cock behind his balls, alarmed at the second, heavier ring locked around his ball sac and devastated when Sam slid a downward curving tube over his cock and fixed it to the rings. It had been a fiddly process fitting it all but worth the effort: at least from Sam's point of view.

Even now as they lay in bed Jason was was fiddling with it trying to get it comfortable.

"We're going to play a game," Sam had said when he had fitted it, "Every time I fuck you, you earn a minute with the tube off and permission to wank. Every time I catch you touching yourself you lose a minute."

Jason had grimaced but had not objected but now Sam said, "Leave it alone. By my reckoning you're at minus five minutes. I've got to fuck you five times just to get you back to zero."

"Yes Master," Jason said unhappily, "I can't help it. It's those little chains and padlocks. It's all loose and jumps around or the weight pulls them between my legs. I've got to be careful I don't trap my balls or something. It really is uncomfortable."

"Good," Sam said, "I had to hunt around to find them. They're not very common but I thought you deserved the extra challenge. What do you say?"

"Thank you Master, I think. Would you like to fuck me now?"

"No. I'm tired. I'll make do with a blow job, tonight."

"Yes Master," Jason replied sadly. He wondered whether he would ever be able to jerk off again with so much stacked against him.

"I reckon that's worth about fifteen seconds."Sam continued, "You can ask the other boys whether they'll accept a blow job from you. Ten seconds off for each one. Mind you, I expect they'll want something in return."

Sam knew how much the boys hated favouritism and Jason was excused a lot of the chores the others had to to do. Serving Sam all day, seemed an easy ride. Jason was now in an increasingly difficult situation. He could battle the pressure in his groin and wait until he had been fucked by Sam enough times or he could go and beg his Pioneer comrades for the pleasure of sucking them. It would be humiliating and degrading and he would never do it.

As he swivelled round to take Sam's manhood into his mouth, his cock twitched trying to rebel against its prison. An image of him kneeling in front of Pioneer Ralton flashed through his mind. It was a strange choice because if anyone was going to take advantage of his plight and make the most of the situation then it would be Ralton.

His cock tried even harder to escape adding to his frustration while Sam groaned appreciatively at the intense ministrations his cock was receiving. Jason was directing his pent up energy to his tongue and lips and Sam was getting the benefits.

Suddenly Sam put his hand on the back of Jason's head and pressed down as he arched his back. As Jason struggled to breathe he felt the rod in his mouth pulsate and wads of cum hit the back of his throat.

Sam released the struggling boy and lay back while Jason gasped in the air he desperately needed. He pulled the towards him until they were spooned up together with Sam's arms wrapped around the boy, one hand gently feeling Jason's balls and on between his legs adding to the pressure in Jason's groin.

Jason slept fitfully that night. He kept having dreams where he was begging Sam to fuck him and the other boys to suck their cocks. One particular dream seemed to repeat itself where he spent what little free time he had, cleaning the other boy's boots in exchange for the privilege of sucking them off. It seemed like a plan and having an idea what to do helped and he finally fell into a deep sleep a couple of hours before he was due to get up.

He was woken the next morning by Pioneer Horton, a boy about a year older, who would attend Sam while Jason attended to his morning routine. Reg Horton tolerated Sam's cock rather than enjoyed it being much more of a top. However he was gay and servicing Sam earned him some kudos. Sam was aware of Reg's attitude and was often content to doze on, waiting for Jason to return.

Not that morning. Reg seemed to think that it was he who had Sam trained into not fucking him while Jason was feeling desperately horny. Fucking Reg that morning seemed like an excellent idea. It would add to Jason's frustration and bring Reg down a peg or two.

Thinking of the effect he would have on two boys pumped more and more blood into his own cock and the tingling anticipation grew ever more intense as he waited for Jason to return.

He flung back the bedclothes and both boys stared at his vivid cock seeming larger and more rigid than they had ever seen it. Reg looked a little shocked as he was told to bend over a chair as Sam came up behind him. Sam was not brutal, just in control as he pushed into the now frightened boy. He paused, pulled out a little and thrust in again. Reg found he could cope with the intrusion and fell in with Sam's rhythm pushing back as Sam pushed forward. Both of them became lost in ecstasy of the moment while Jason looked helplessly on.

Sam's thrusts became more urgent and his whole being focused on his tightening balls as moments later he felt the first magnificent pulse as his cream was injected deep into the boy's body. Sam's thrusts were convulsive now as his balls emptied and Reg felt his young body crushed and overwhelmed by the power of Sam's climax.

Sam was hurting him now and he was scared of Sam's uncontrolled strength but his own ejaculation was just as powerful. Sam's stimulation added to his morning stiffness and the realisation that he was going to cum in front of one of his comrades while mounted and out of control added its own stimulation. His own wads shot across the room with a force he could hardly believe and his legs buckled.

He collapsed onto the floor sending the chair flying as Sam collapsed on top of him. It was a ludicrous scene and Jason was in fits of laughter as he rushed over to help Sam up. As they got their breath back they were all laughing happily together as Sam lay down on the bed to rest leaving the boys standing at attention.

It was not a good time for a speech so Sam lay back and rested, even dozing for a few minutes.

"Neither of you have taken me seriously," Sam said, "You Jason, gave little thought to what being a slave means and what a slave loses. You Reg thought you could swing things round to being the top and me the bottom."

He paused checking to see that he had their undivided attention before he continued, "Jason is discovering what its going to cost him and Reg is going to learn who the top is. We've got time before I have to get up so Jason, see if you can earn another ten seconds."

It took time for Jason to understand the full implications of Sam's command. Ten seconds meant giving a blow job and as it was ten seconds and not fifteen it had to be a boy. The only boy present was Reg and he had only just come. Had Sam given him an order or was it just an invitation? Sam seemed to be waiting so it was an order.

Reg was looking just as worried. It had come as a shock to realise that Sam understood him so well. He had manipulated boys far older than him and had become over confident. It should be a great opportunity to experience Jason's mouth but it was Sam in charge of the situation and not him.

Jason knelt down and began his task. Reg's lower regions were sore and ached and he flinched a little as Jason's fingers felt his hole but his boyhood still swelled . At first he wanted Jason to stop and nearly stepped back but that would be open defiance to Sam but sensations of pleasure began to take over. Reg was finding handing over control of his body a novel and stimulating experience adding to the pleasure. Even so, he came in a much smaller quantity than before though it was a highly rewarding sensation.

Jason sat back, content that he was a little closer to his own climax and glad that he been allowed the chance to explore Reg's tight young body. He was still unhappy at becoming the squad's cocksucker and it was true that he had thought little about what Sam could do with his slave. He could do little about it unless he reneged on the promise he had made in front of the squad.

Sam was content with his morning so far as he showered and went down for his breakfast.

As he began his morning's work, he sent for Joe and Ricky. They arrived and stood nervously in front of his desk wondering what they had done wrong but relaxed as Sam described the jobs being offered, asking whether they would be interested.

As usual Joe answered first.

"I'm too old to join the Pioneers," he said, "It's a pity because I wish I'd worked harder at school, now.

He grinned ruefully,

"That's something I've learnt this Summer but it's too late. They won't have me back. I can't get any training from the Pioneers so I don't suppose I'm much good for more than cleaning your yard. Won't you want someone with qualifications to take charge, sir?"

"Not according to the powers that be at the other end," Sam replied, "Apparently, SWO Williams is more than happy to enrol you into his squad and that means you'll be recognised as a Pioneer even though you'll only be a member for a few months. You'll be eligible for the same training programs that other ex-Pioneers are entitled to join. I'm not sure how it works but you'll be responsible to the squad's AIC during your training. It's got something to do with maintaining the Pioneer's reputation as an elite but I'm not sure of the details."

"It sounds as though, if I foul up in college, you can bend me over a table and cane me," Joe grinned.

"That's one of the options, certainly," Sam replied seriously, "And by me, you mean the AIC."

"That's you, isn't it, sir?" Joe asked.

"Ever heard of the Stockholm Syndrome?" Sam asked, "It's where, over a period of time hostages become friends with their captives. The thing is, this squad is dependant on me to a similar extent. Their attitudes might change once their lives get back to normal."

"I doubt it, sir," Joe exclaimed, "They appreciate how you've looked after them but they like your style. I'll make you a deal. I'll follow this offer through if you do."

"So will I,sir," Ricky interjected to the other's surprise, "Mum and Dad want to move. They were talking about it when I visited them last Sunday. I mentioned something about moving in with you so I could stay in my old school and be with my friends and they seemed almost relieved. "

There was a hint of sadness in his voice and he was close to tears.

"Yes of course," Sam said, "You'll always be welcome here no matter how things turn out."

Ricky smiled seeming more cheerful then looked worried again.

"You know I'm not gay, don't you,sir," he asked.

"Don't worry," Sam chuckled, "There's over twenty broad minded Pioneers here and only three that are willing to get into bed with me. It's not compulsory."

Sam was sure that Joe muttered, four, as he spoke but he was not sure. In spite of being among the oldest boys here, Joe and David seemed the least certain of their sexuality. Sam was not sure what their problem was but suspected they both saw themselves as tough guys and that it was a sign of weakness to surrender to another male.

It did not explain why they were willing to explore their sexuality with each other unless they just saw a kindred spirit in each other.

Brian Williams was about their age. He was obviously straight though he did not object to some mild fooling around but he seemed more concerned with getting back to the girl he had started seeing on his world. Most of the straight guys seemed to adopt a similar attitude so David and Joe's relationship seemed harder to figure.

With his own thoughts turning to sex he could not help wondering how Jason was coping. Being the AIC's runner and servant was one thing and he had become a little big headed because of his special treatment. Sam wondered whether he had swallowed his pride yet and asked to suck anyone's cock.

It took an effort to get back to work. He grinned as he tried to focus. Sex seemed to be part of his work now. It was a case of getting on with other aspects of it. He was pretty sure that his future lie with Jason. That meant that his future lay on another world. It also meant that he needed to start tidying up his affairs here so he had to wind up his involvement in the last of the projects he had been working on. He sent for SWO Williams.

"I think I'm going to accept the job I've been offered by your people," Sam said, "I've got behind schedule on a couple of projects I promised to help on and I need to concentrate on them for a time. The real problem is that I need to spend a few days in London. Would you be able to cope without me?"

"No sir." We need an AIC to be available."

"Are you saying that I'm supposed to be here constantly until I'm relieved?"

"No! That doesn't sound right, does it, sir?" Brian said, "I could ask the Commandant's Office."

When he returned a little later he seemed excited and nervous at the same time.

"They asked if you could hang on for a week or so. They're doing some final checks but think they'll be ready to send a human being. Captain Heinred has volunteered. I think that it's worked out quite well for them. He was only supposed to make a quick visit to confirm everything was OK here and set up a transmitter he was bringing. Now they're talking about bringing extra equipment with him to stabilise the transporter and using the extra time to run extra tests."

"It sounds as if they're under pressure to rush things again," Sam said.

"Yes sir, that's what I thought but I didn't want to be disrespectful," Brian grinned.

"At least they're sending an adult this time," Sam said, "I wonder why they're not sending a technician, though."

"Captain Heinred has a degree in Quantum Physics," Brian answered, "He knows the transporter project and he's an Adult Pioneer."

"My mistake," Sam said, "I shouldn't have doubted Pioneer efficiency."

Brian laughed again.

"No sir," he said, "We all want to go home but I don't think any of us want to be the first on that transporter again. Once Captain Heinred has set it all up they can send someone else to and fro while he monitors it from this end."

"Someone has to be the guinea pig," Sam said, "But this time it can be someone on the project officially who understands the risks. Anyway, tell them that leaving it for a week suits me fine. It'll give me a chance to get my stuff ready."

Sam sensed the mounting excitement amongst the Pioneers. The news that that they were about to begin manned transportation tests meant another step towards getting home. He tended to forget that the Pioneers were little more than children and even Brian seemed to be letting his guard down a little.

It became obvious on one occasion when he had Joe and Jason standing in front of him.

"I want Joe to come with me to London as my runner," Sam said, "I'm being cautious but if there are problems with the transporter you might have to move at very short notice. I want everyone to stay close by once human transportation starts."

"That's not fair," Jason blurted out, "I'm your runner. I should stay with you."

"Not in this case," Sam said calmly trying to ease the situation, "While I'm away, I want you to just be a Pioneer. Not a slave or even a runner, a Pioneer."

"It's still not fair," Jason exclaimed, "The transporter will be OK. I should stay with you."

"You'll do as you're told," Sam snapped, "Bend over that table. Joe run over to the Adjutant's office and fetch the paddle."

Jason paled slightly as Joe disappeared through the door but obeyed.

"I might have changed my mind," Sam said while they were waiting, "because I'm going to miss you terribly but after that little tantrum I can't risk it. Who knows what you might let slip."

When Joe returned, Sam looked at him.

"Give him six, please," he said, "He can come and find me when he remembers how to behave."

Beating Jason might leave his backside bruised and battered. He might regret his actions as he heard the air whistling though the paddle and he might even end up in tears from the pain but Jason had a degree of arrogance in him that would leave him feeling triumphant that he had got through the ordeal.

Walking away and taking no interest in the punishment would deflate Jason's ego faster than anything. Knowing that his outburst had cost him the last chance of going with Sam and that Sam did not even want to see him in his present mood would hurt him more than the paddle.

It was about an hour later when Jason found Sam reading a report on the patio. Jason stood quietly with hands behind his head and his feet apart until Sam was ready for him. His eyes were still puffy from crying at the pain and he had trouble standing still as the fire in his backside still raged. Finally Sam took pity on him.

"Well?" he said.

"I'm sorry, Master," Jason sobbed, "I know you were thinking of me. I shouldn't have argued with you."

"I don't mind you having your say," Sam explained, "It was your attitude. You were petulant and argumentative. You must have made Joe feel bad. I can't have that."

"No Master. I'm sorry."

Sam held out his arms.

"Come here then," he said.

Almost before he had finished speaking Sam had a lap full of very relieved boy.

"You've forgotten one bonus of being a Pioneer again," Sam said, "You'll be able to wank as often as you like."

Jason grinned.

"The others have been really good," he said, "They've let me suck them off without expecting anything. Apart from a good blow job, that is. I've got a minute's wanking time already."

He thought for a moment.

"If you wanted, I could wear it under my uniform. It would remind me of you."

"No!" Sam said, "Enjoy yourself. I think it might be an interesting torture if you have a reminder of what you're missing. When I come back and it goes back on, I might deduct time for other punishments."

While Jason considered his prospects with his cock, Joe was considering his. Acting as Sam's runner during the day would be exciting but he was less sure about the nights.

He had arrived on Sam's property, desperately hiding his interest in men with a fa�ade of aggressiveness and tough guy attitude and with few prospects for the future. He had skipped school, more as a proof that he was no nerd than boredom at the lessons and had discovered too late the long term harm that he was doing to himself.

Now Sam was giving him one last chance to make something of himself and it it was in a way that he found quite incredible. His association with the Pioneers, David in particular had let him accept that he was at least, bi-sexual and he was beginning to think that he was more gay than straight. For once it was no big deal and he could consider that just possibly he might be completely gay. His new friends would accept him no matter what.

He might even come out to his mother and maybe to his other friends but how would he explain his job description. Surely being expected to sleep with his new boss was harassment or something. It was just not right, was it?

It was Brian, who set his mind at rest.

"Your job is to assist Mr. Jameson while you're away" he said, "It's your right to refuse to do anything you consider unreasonable. We've got different ideas of what's unreasonable and you'll be living here after we've gone so do whatever seems right to you."

Sam had a different problem concerning the trip. Mrs Hargreaves rang concerned about the arrangements.

"I'm so very grateful for what you're doing for my son," she said, "I'm just not sure why you need him in London or where you'll both be sleeping. I'm not suggesting that you're planning anything improper but it's just a bit unusual."

Sam was not sure what to say. He did not like lying but he could not tell the whole truth.

"You've met the boys that I've got staying with me," he said, "They think that anyone over twenty is senile and incapable of carrying a bag without having a heart attack. I'm lucky I haven't got the whole gang coming with me. By the way one of the boy's relatives will be arriving to look after them. He's Captain Heinred. I'm hoping he's going to give some basic training and tire them out for the rest of the summer."

Mrs Hargreaves laughed.

I see your problem," she said, "I don't know how you can cope with them all but I must say, you've had a wonderful effect on Joe. Ricky's parents can't believe the change in him either. He's so much more outgoing and cheerful.

They've had one or two problems recently. His dad has the chance for a promotion but it means that they'll have to travel a lot. They had been hoping that the job would be offered to him in a few years time when Ricky was off to university. Unfortunately the guy doing it now had a heart attack and took early retirement.

"Ricky felt as though they wanted to dump him but as they say, he'll be away soon anyway and then they'll have nothing.

"Anyway, it seems they've been talking more this Summer than ever before and understand each other a lot better. It seems that Ricky's told them that you're a computer expert and could get some decent work experience with you so I just wanted to warn you that you might be asked to let Ricky live with you."

"Ricky's already asked me," Sam said, "I'm thinking about it and I don't think there's going to be problem. I'm glad he's getting on with his parents now."

"I'll let them know that you you're going away and they can speak to you when you get back."

The conversation drifted on for a little longer before they hung up. Knowing who he had been talking to, Joe sidled cautiously up to Sam, nervously asking if everything was OK.

Sam nodded.

"She was just making sure that I wasn't planning on raping you," he said.

Joe looked startled then grinned.

"I haven't given you permission so you can't," he smirked

"Seriously," Sam said, "We're booking into a hotel that doesn't ask questions and is very discreet. They would be unhappy if I took an obvious rent boy, possibly stoned out of his mind up to my room and he left again an hour later. I would probably be asked to leave and they would refuse to book me again.

"You'll look like a guest and signed in as a guest so they won't ask questions. I've booked a single for you, a double for me and they have a connecting door. No one will ask why your bed's not slept in. With their same discretion no one will be surprised if it is."

Joe blushed.

"You mean they might think that I'm a toy boy and you're a sugar daddy," he whispered.

"Or an escort and I'm your client," Sam replied, "Or you could be my son or nephew. As long as you maintain their standards they don't care."

Joe was still flushed, embarrassed at what the conversation meant. If he was ever going to discuss it though, now would be the time.

"Am I going to share your bed?" he asked.

"It's your choice but you'd be welcome," Sam replied.

"The Pioneers expect me to," Joe whispered, "I don't know."

"I wanted to take you so that you'd understand more about my affairs," Sam said quietly, "I could take Ricky instead. He'd say No and sleep in his own bed and I'd know where I stand. Make up your mind and let me know."

If someone had ordered him to sleep with Sam then he would have had something to focus on and rebel against. Instead, it was down to him to resolve the conflicts whirling around his brain.

He still dreaded the name calling and insults if his old friends ever found out what he was doing but gradually he was realising that the quiet disappointment of his new friends would be worse. Oddly the idea of sex with Sam did not bother him, if nothing else, it would be a challenge to meet his demands and he wanted to impress Sam but he was also discovering just how much he liked the idea of gay sex and who better to teach him.

His journey of discovery was having another effect. As he came to understand his true nature the need to project a macho/heterosexual image faded and he regretted the opportunities he had wasted at school more and more. He threw himself into the lessons that the Pioneers had set up for themselves and had probably studied more during his time with the Pioneers than his last two years at school.

Sam was aware of his change of attitude and it was one of the reasons that Joe was accompanying him; to allow him to try out his new found attitudes in an environment where it was assumed that he would be studying and was self-assured.

However everything still depended on the success of the transporter and Captain Heinred's safe arrival. As David had said, there's the world of difference between shouting through a wall and knocking a hole in it.

It was not the best description because small items had been sent through but testing the full sized transporter could still throw up unexpected problems. As the day of the first test arrived the boys became visibly more excited. SWO Williams was having trouble maintaining discipline.

Sam noticed and muttered that it was getting near time for another lottery. It was enough to calm things a little and somehow they coped until time for the trial approached.

Everyone was gathered to watch. The expected time arrived at last and nothing happened. They were warned that their might be delays when suddenly the familiar blue sphere appeared. As it faded they could see a platform, stacked full with instruments.

They had been warned not to approach it and as they waited the blue glow reappeared then everything vanished.

Moments later the phone rang. It made everyone jump as SWO Williams hurried to answer it.

"The outgoing trip worked fine," a technician said. "The pull back was a little violent. We know why but it may take time to sort it. We're going to try a couple more tests today then examine the data."

The phone link degenerated into massive interference, a loud indescribable noise punctuated by bangs, whoops and high pitched shrieks. The blue sphere appeared again with the instruments inside.

Brian had hung up the phone by then and the sphere stabilised, faded and everything seemed fine as the return process started and it all disappeared again.

The phone rang again.

"OK, that was fine." The technician said, "We're going to send Captain Heinred through now. He'll be bringing a beefed up beacon with some extra filtering. Yours seems to be building up harmonics which is feeding back into the transporter controls. That's one reason why the outward journey is stable and the return is still hose piping a bit."

For the third time the blue sphere appeared and this time there was a figure together with some bags and a large container on the platform and for the third time the phone rang.

"The field is completely deactivated," the voice said, "It's safe to leave the Landing Zone."

When Sam looked at the new arrival, he was reminded of an army officer from the forties or fifties complete Sam Browne webbing and swagger stick. He approached SWO Williams and accepted his salute before turning and offering his hand to Sam.

"I'm Captain Heinred," he said, "I'm so pleased to meet you. The entire country is grateful for the way you've looked after our boys."

"Thank you," Sam replied a little overwhelmed, "It's a relief to have someone here to take over."

Captain Heinred looked surprised.

"Of course. You'd never heard of the Pioneers before this Summer," he said, "Let me explain. You're the AIC so you're in charge. I'm not here because of complaints from the squad so I have no authority to countermand your orders. I am here to assist you to get them home and of course I'll stand in for you while you're away but I can only change anything in your absence if there are unexpected circumstances."

"I see," Sam said, "I leave most of the day to running to SWO Williams. I coordinated the building of the beacon but that was about all."

"You've done considerably more than that." Captain Heinred exclaimed, "With your permission I'd like to speak to the boys in private especially SWO Williams and JWO Davies. It forms part of our procedures but in this case it's only a formality."

"It's fine by me," Sam replied, "Join me for coffee on the patio when you're done."

A little later they were both seated comfortably and Captain Heinred took a sip of coffee and stared at his cup in surprise.

"It's real coffee," he gasped, "Do you know how much this costs at home?"

"I can guess from what the boys have told me," Sam replied. "We'll get some for you to take home with you."

"I'd be grateful." Captain Heinred answered, "I've spoken to the boys and I'm satisfied that they want you as their AIC. We already knew that, of course but asking them in private is part of the procedure. While we're talking in private I can ask you if you will accept these."

Captain Heinred offered Sam a box containing a stud. It was a gold disc inlaid with red enamel. The letters AIC 1274 were written in gold. His name was engraved on the back. Around the fitting.

"You can wear it in your right collar or jacket lapel." Captain Heinred said, "This one is for your left."

The stud was similar to the first one except that it had nothing written on it but displayed a golden star.

"It's an award for your service to the Pioneers," he explained, "There's a higher one which bears a crown and three lower which have one, two or three bars. The crown has never been awarded to anyone with less than ten years service."

"I'm flattered," Sam said as he started to fix them to his collar. Captain Heinred put out his hand to stop him.

"The first time you wear them the squad will parade and salute you," he said, "SWO Williams would like a little time to drill them first."

Sam nodded and sat back and smile contentedly while Jason, unconcerned about the newcomer served them, naked except for the chastity device and collar.

"If you do decide to move across we'll have to find you suitable accommodation. We think the same property might be available back home and we've a short list of twelve volunteers to attend to you. If you have thoughts on a design we could start building your dungeon in the cellar."

He caught the startled look in Sam's eyes and grinned.

"I've been briefed on the different attitudes here," he said, "They do seem very Victorian. Our view is that if a child wants to experiment with something then it's better he do it with someone who's reliable and trustworthy.

"AIC Hodges won't be getting another squad because there's been an investigation and it seems that he was pursuing his interests at the expense of the squad. We've fouled up badly with these boys and you've turned a potential disaster into a success story. We can hardly criticize you for your handling of them, can we?"

"You would on this world," Sam said, "It's so very different."

"That boy is discovering who he is. You've had others in your bed and you've helped them find themselves and you've let them move on. AIC Hodges thought it his right to use them and there's some talk of charging him with rape."

"So you're saying that your age of consent is about twelve," Sam said.

"No. It's twenty one." Captain Heinred replied, "However the courts are obliged to consider the maturity and self-confidence of the child. Young Jason there meets all the criteria and he's happy so why interfere?"

Sam thought for a moment.

"So if an eighteen year old, for example, left home to go to University, but was shy, uncertain of himself and easily overwhelmed he'd still have some legal protection."

"Exactly." Captain Heinred said, "No one like that would stay in the Pioneers for long so it's safe to assume that young Jason knows what he wants. You're not taking him on your trip to London?"

"No," Sam replied outlining his reasons then adding, "He's not happy about it though."

"He wouldn't be." Captain Heinred said, "If you're agreeable, let's see if Joe would consent to being my runner. I'm more interested in the female of the species but on an assignment like this a boy's lips can feel just as hot as a girl's. He'd be under less pressure on his first assignment and you could take Jason."

"And if he misses a chance to get home?" Sam asked.

"They'll be doing tests between points on our Earth for a week or more yet. The beacon was part of the problem and the inter-dimensional jumps magnifies it. Plan B is to send a full blown transporter through, assemble it here so that it acts as the initiator homing on a beacon at home but we don't want to risk exposing our technology if we don't have to so we'd like to try and stabilise the return jumps."

"No, I'd rather stick to my original plan," Sam said, "I could order Jason to stay naked and leave the chastity device on him. He'd get the worst of both worlds then."

Jason was standing nearby just out of Sam's line of sight, waiting to serve them. Sam felt rather than saw Jason stick his tongue out at him.

Jason was happy enough with the arrangements. Sam had talked to him about it and about how Sam wanted to train him to act as his assistant. He could see that he was not ready to help Sam this time but he was excited at the thought that one day he might be making a similar journey alone for his Master. He felt useful and not an interloper so he was content.

The trip itself was routine with a few incidents to interrupt the routine. The hotel was much as Sam had described it. It was not snobbish but its guests expected certain standards of service. Joe was dressed in a smart jacket, tie and trousers and fitted in. No one questioned who he was.

He was nervous as he was shown to their rooms because he had decided what he had to do. As soon as he was alone he unpacked his bags, stripped naked and hung those clothes with the others then he stepped through into Sam's room.

Things might have gone well for him had not a bellboy been unpacking Sam's bags for him. The bellhop, a young man in his late teens looked startled but carried on unpacking, Sam was slow to react because he was not sure what Joe was up to and Joe blushed bright red and bolted for his bedroom door.

Sam waited for the bellboy to finish up and leave then knocked on Joe's door and getting no response entered.

Joe was dressed in shirt and trousers, sitting miserably on the bed. It seemed as if he was crying.

"I'm sorry," Joe said, "I thought you were alone. What must he be thinking?"

"Judging by the bulge in his trousers, nothing nasty," Sam replied, "This hotel advertises in gay magazines for staff. It pays well and providing they are as discreet as the guests they can have who they like in their rooms. The result is a low turn over which in turn means a better trained staff giving better service. Would you like me to invite him back when he comes off duty?"

Sam watched as Joe grappled with the idea but before waiting for an answer, "So what was the idea?"

"I think I'm ready to be your runner full time, sir," Joe said sheepishly, "I was presenting myself for inspection. It seems a bit silly now."

"No not silly. Get on with it then," Sam said softly.

Joe looked at him and stood up before starting to unbutton his shirt.

"I thought you had hair on your chest," Sam queried.

"I thought you preferred your slaves to be smooth, sir," Joe explained.

"You're not cut out to be my slave," Joe said, "Servant, yes, but you make your own terms and yes, I do prefer smooth bodies."

"Why sir?"

"Personal choice. I see more definition and hair can dull the touch like clothes do. Plenty of people disagree with me and like bears. We're all different."

Joe had dropped his trousers by then and after pausing hesitantly for a few moments, put his hands behind his head and spread his legs.

"When you do something, you don't use half measures do you?" Sam joked trying to calm Joe who had removed every scrap of hair on his body, "Another thing I like. Being hairless down there, makes your cock and balls look bigger."

Joe smiled, feeling a little more confident.

"What I'd really like to do is bend you over that chair so that I really explore your arse but it'll have to wait," Sam said, "I need to go over tomorrow's meeting with you so that you know what documents I need. I always fumble around on the laptop when someone's watching me. I don't mind if you fumble a bit because I'll have someone to blame but if I point to the next file I want on a list, you can call it up while I continue talking."

Joe nodded, getting the idea and already beginning to forget that he was naked. Sam found him surprisingly quick witted and went further than he planned, showing the contents of the files and how to locate the detailed information he wanted.

He worked much later than he intended and instead of eating out, they decided to send for sandwiches. Nobody thinks twice about doing it unless of course, they're sixteen years old, never been in a hotel before and their boss is watching them. Then it becomes a little more of a deal. Joe was feeling pleased with himself until he blushed and asked whoever he was speaking with to hang on.

"They're asking if they want the same bellboy to serve us," he whispered.

"Tell them yes," Sam said and when Joe had hung up he continued, "You see why I like this hotel. It's gay friendly and I bet that bellboy is hoping to make out with you. The hotel's probably trying to figure whether we never want to see him again and forget that he saw you or keep it to the one person who knows."

"Wow!" Joe gasped, "I didn't know hotels were like that."

"Oh, this one is pretty unique," Sam said, "It's expensive for it's rating and the manager has been known to tell guests off about their behaviour and they don't usually come back. Straight guests don't know about the gay side to the place and there would be hell to pay if any found out and were upset about it."

There was a discreet tap on the door and the bellhop entered carrying a tray. Sam had just enough time to tell Joe to display himself including a conspiratorial wink.

"Will there be anything else, sir," the bellhop asked.

"Nothing for me," Sam said, "Joe?"

The bellhop stared at Joe, the lust obvious.

"No sir," Joe said.

"What time do you get off?" Sam asked.

"The night staff come on at eleven, sir," the bellhop replied, "I finish as soon as the changeover's complete."

"I'll be ready for a nightcap about then," Sam said, "I wouldn't mind some company and I'm sure there's a third glass in the cabinet."

"Thank you, sir," the bellhop replied, "I should be here by eleven thirty at the latest, if that's OK."

"Perfect," said Sam. "I'll see you then."

Chapter 5

He had known about this hotel and had used it often in the past and had hoped he would find someone who would take an interest in Joe. With Joe trying to take the initiative it had proved easier than expected.

The bellhop returned earlier than he expected, just a few minutes after eleven. Sam and he relaxed for a while so that they could relax and get onto first name terms. The bellhop was named Craig. Joe just stood ready to serve drinks to the others.

"The way you're looking at Joe, I assume that you want to have sex with him," Sam said, "True?"

Craig blushed and nodded.

"Good!" Sam continued, "Joe's been finding out who he is this Summer and is finally beginning to accept that he likes boys. I'd like you to give him a first time experience that he'll have fond memories of for the rest of his life."

"That's nice," Craig said, "I don't know if I'm cut out to be a teacher, though."

"You up for a bit of role play?" Sam asked.

"Go on?" Craig responded carefully.

"You're a rent boy and you have to please your customer. React to the things he wants and pull back if he doesn't like them."

"I can do that," Craig replied, "Shouldn't Joe be in on this conversation?"

Sam smiled, "He offered himself as my slave tonight. I don't think he's ready for that but he's getting some idea of what handing over control really means. Don't worry, he thinks you're a sexy hunk and he's keen on getting with you."

Craig nodded and it seemed to him that Sam was waiting for him.

"Are you going to watch?" he asked.

"For a while," Sam replied, "I suppose you think Joe should handle this alone."

"Most kids do," Craig agreed thoughtfully, "And a hell of a lot regret it. I think it's kind of cute that you want his first time to be so good."

He nearly said, I'd better get started but that would have spoilt the mood that Sam was trying to create. Instead he stood up and began a slow erotic striptease for Joe and Sam. The night was not going as he had expected but it was different and nice that it meant something to his new friends. Joe was erect by the time he had taken his shirt off. He had not been fully soft while they had been talking about him and had even looked nervous at times.

Craig's nipples were firm and round, setting off his well developed pecs. They were surrounded by a few blonde hairs matching the mop on his head. His skin was tanned. He did not have much opportunity to sun himself but he visited a local parlour. He had a small patch of hair in the middle of chest and a treasure trail starting at his navel and disappearing into his trousers.

He stood on one leg, nearly losing his balance as he removed his shoes and socks then glanced at his audience. Sam seemed more tense than he was and was resting a hand on his crotch. Joe was staring wide eyed, breathing rapidly and his cock almost pressed against his belly. It was leaking a little and the head glistened. He did not dare move, scared of spoiling the magic of the moment.

Craig found their reaction something of a turn on as he began unzipping his trousers. He wore loose fitting and comfortable boxer under-shorts and he slowly lowered them with his trousers. He kept his legs apart until both layers were below his groin then brought them closer together so both layers could slip down and he could step out of them. He did not stop but stepped over to Joe, knelt down and took the younger man's cock into his mouth.

Sam had more chance to see the lower half of Craig. Like his chest and flat stomach, his legs were muscular while his cock pointed outwards, stiff and firm. Sam felt an urge to slide his hand between Craig's legs and play with his heavy looking balls before retreating slightly and to explore inside that beautiful body. He could content himself with just exploring those beautiful arse cheeks but this was Joe's time and Sam could not do anything to interrupt the look of intense pleasure on the boy's face.

Craig had his hands on Joe's arse cheeks and was gently pressing him deeper and deeper into his mouth. Joe began humping slightly and Craig caught the rhythm allowing him to breathe. Lost in the moment, Joe dropped his hands from behind his head to grip Craig's head instead and his bucking became more violent. Craig's head was bobbing more violently as Joe arched his back groaning loudly, before seeming to collapse and push Craig away.

Craig was not ready to stop. As he lay down on the the floor he pulled Joe down on top of him. Somehow he swung Joe round so that the boy was staring at the older one's cock inches from his mouth but Craig's tongue was already rimming Joe's opening and his tongue penetrating further inside.

Joe was overloaded with sensations. He had not been able to recover from the most spectacular orgasm that he ever had, his cock, pressed between his stomach and Craig's chest, was already swelling again and the sensation from Craig's lips and tongue were like nothing he had ever felt before. Everything he had done in the past seemed like half hearted fumblings compared to this moment.

Briefly, Craig paused for breath and Joe tried taking the older boy's cock deep into his throat only to find himself gagging.

"Just the tip and get used to it," Craig whispered, before the first of his fingers began penetrating Joe.

Craig glanced at Sam and grinned quietly at each other as the new sensation made Joe gasp and forget about Craig's cock as he lost himself in the pleasure of the moment.

Moments later, Joe yelped and pushed Craig's hand away.

"Sorry," he said, "That hurt and I wasn't expecting it."

"Sit up and jerk me off," Craig commanded.

Sam watched as Joe meekly obeyed. Craig lay quietly for a time until he began to groan and squirm. His muscles tensed and relaxed, until he too found himself arching his back and a squirt of cream struck Joe's chest, more followed and only the last jet failed to land on Joe.

As he relaxed he pulled Joe back into a tight hug letting his hands spread the goo all over Joe's chest and stomach.

They both had contented smiles and Craig gently kissed Joe's cheek. He twisted round and kissed Craig firmly on the lips.

As they wound down Joe sat up and announced that he was hungry. Craig agreed and rang down for room service. The kitchen was closed but the night porter offered to arrange a pizza from the local takeaway.

To Sam's surprise, neither boy seemed to want to get dressed and he began to get the uncomfortable feeling that he was intruding.

"I take it that you've got a boyfriend," Sam said.

"I'd have said that I've got a couple," Craig said, "After tonight I think they're just fuck buddies. That was something else."

Joe grinned at him.

"I could call either one and be up their arse in about ten minutes. It's weird because I'm thinking about waiting until Joe's ready and if he'd enjoy, doing me."

Joe's grin became even broader and he hugged Craig who wrapped his hands round the boy again. Sam had the feeling that his matchmaking had unlocked something in both boys and had created a monster.

They were kissing when the pizza arrived. Sam went to the door rather than let anyone in and the two boys only reluctantly parted to eat.

"I've got to get some sleep," Craig said, "Could I nip upstairs, get the kit I need for tomorrow and stay with you guys, please?"

Joe's grin got even wider when Sam nodded. Craig only bothered with trousers and shirt to get his stuff and when he returned he looked at Sam.

"We can't let you go to sleep without anything," he said, "What would you like?"

Sam contented himself with a jerk off going happily to sleep with the two young men cuddled up on either side of him.

Joe never slept in the room that Sam had booked for him. During the day he would help Sam with his work and at night would wait impatiently for Craig to return. On Craig's day off, Sam gave Joe one too. He doubted that either one got dressed from the previous evening to the next morning but according to both of them they had spent a lot of time discovering common interests and sharing their life histories.

They made sure that Sam was included in sex but at other times he felt like an intruder still.

What he did not know was that Craig's first two men had used him then dumped him. He had followed their lead, using people with little thought to their needs. Role play or not, Sam's request that he be sensitive to Joe's needs and Sam's protectiveness had rekindled feelings that he thought he had lost.

Craig also found an intelligence and a gentleness about Joe that his ex school friends would never have recognised.

Instead of letting Joe find himself, the boy had found himself a lover and he was becoming increasingly distressed at the thought of leaving him to return home. Joe had told Craig that he was to become caretaker of Sam's property and that Sam would be looking after another boy there.

It seemed to Craig that once they were separated Joe would soon forget him and take up the other opportunities he had and offered to find him a job at the hotel. Joe could hardly tell Craig that he would, in fact, be in charge of an inter-dimensional trading post and that he had the chance of the best education in two worlds.

Apart from the men he fell in love with, Sam was a pretty good judge of character and it was becoming obvious that one way or another he was going to have to find someone else to act as caretaker and he liked Craig.

Joe was a little young anyway, it was just that he knew about the transporter project. The day before they were due to return he sent Joe off an errand and phoned Captain Heinred.

He was agreeable to Sam's plan and would help as best he could so that night when Craig came off duty Sam had both boys stand in front of him. Joe had dropped all ideas of acting like Jason and was fully dressed and so was Craig.

"I'm being a little formal because this important," Sam said, "Joe, have you thought about telling Craig how unusual our situation is back home. Please answer frankly."

"Yes, I have. I wish he could come back with us but I know I can't tell him about things. There's a job in the kitchen here, I 'd take it but I'd be letting you down but… "

"I understand," Sam said, "You've only known Craig for a few days. How come you feel so committed to him. Don't say you love him. Convince me it's not just a childhood passion."

"What's this all about?" Craig interrupted angrily.

"Don't worry, babe," Joe answered, "It is important. I just feel right with him. We might not get on when we're stuck together but I need to find out."

"How will your Mother react when she discovers that you're living with your boyfriend? What about your friends?"

"I phoned Mum while you were at your last meeting. She wants to meet Craig because I sounded so happy. Ricky and my… er… new mates will be pleased for me. If my old ones can't accept it then they weren't really my mates."

"OK! I'm sorry about all this, Craig," Sam said, "Are you as anxious to make a go of things as Joe."

Craig nodded vehemently, "Yes, I am."

"Very well," Sam said, "I want you to take a weeks holiday and come back with us if you'll make the same promise that Joe made. That is no matter what you see and no matter what you hear, you tell no one."

"If Joe made that promise then I can do the same," Craig replied, "but I can't come tomorrow. I wouldn't get the time off at such short notice."

"The manager says that you've got some sick days you can take and some holiday after that but you must let him know first thing in the morning."

"You've been going behind my back? What right do you have to do that?"

"You and Joe have been noticed around the hotel," Sam said, The manager was concerned that you were being a nuisance and mentioned it to me first. I took the opportunity to check on what the possibilities were rather than suggest something that was impossible. He's a bit of a romantic so he's only too pleased to help a couple of star crossed lovers, as he put it. It's your decision."

"I'm sorry," Craig said, "I'm not used to someone fussing over me. Yes, I'd like to come."

Craig was distinctly nervous about what he was letting himself in for. What was the big secret he was about to share? Craig thought about how Joe always called Sam, sir and seemed almost willing to act like a slave. Supposing it was some sort of BDSM scene they had. He had just discovered the caring side of lovemaking and did not want to lose it again.

In spite of his fevered imagination nothing prepared him for what he actually saw. It seemed like a cross between an army camp and a boy's home. Most were in a strange, almost sexy uniform and they all seemed pleased to see Sam. One smartly opened the car door for him while two more unpacked their bags. One boy, dressed in ordinary clothes approached them and saluted Sam smartly.

"Welcome back, sir," he said, "Captain Heinred's in the Adjutant's Office. He'd like a meeting as soon as you're ready, sir and as you instructed, the final test was held back until you arrived."

"Thank you, Brian," Sam replied, "I'd like Craig here to see the experiment and then I'd like to hold the meeting with everyone who needs to be brought up to speed."

SWO Williams saluted and marched off as a running blur leapt at Sam, wrapped his legs round Sam's waist and arms around his neck. Sam staggered back but kissed Jason warmly before murmuring, "That's not how my runner and slave behaves is it?"

Jason grinned, reassured that Sam had not chosen Joe over him.

"I'll go and strip and report back, Master," he said said, "I'm glad you're back."

As he hurried off, Sam noticed Craig's bemused expression.

"Bear with me for the moment," Sam said, "Joe you'd better act as Craig's runner. Remember how you felt when I tried to tell you what was going on. You can try to tell Craig if you like but I'm going to wait until after the experiment."

Joe grinned, "I'll take him to his room and help him to freshen up, sir. It looks like yours is ready for duty, sir."

Craig gasped as Jason, naked except for his chastity device and collar arrived and stood quietly beside Sam. Joe just took Craig's hand and led him away leaving Sam free to head for his bedroom.

"So how much wanking time have you earned?" Sam asked.

Jason grinned.

"Nearly fourteen minutes, sir," he said proudly, "And I feel like I'm bursting."

"Do you want me to bring it up to the full quarter of an hour?" Sam asked.

Jason's grin became even wider and he jumped onto the bed, lay on his back before bending his legs and wrapping his arms around the back of his knees. Sam stared at the offered cherry hungrily as he quickly stripped.

As he pressed his cock against his boy, Jason lowered his legs onto Sam's shoulders. As his muscles surrendered to the pressure he groaned happily as Sam pushed deeper. Sam felt as though he was home and watched Jason looking for any sign of distress but the boy seemed to be almost purring. Relaxing he allowed his body to take over, thrusting in long steady strokes which rapidly became more intense as the pressure in his balls mounted.

Finally he let in final intense thrusts that made Jason squeal but Sam could not stop even if wanted to. As the climax passed he looked at Jason and only saw contentment. Sam lay down beside his boy, fumbled briefly with his bedside cabinet and released Jason's cock from its confinement.

"As a coming home present, I'll double the time to half an hour," Sam said, "Cum twice and I'll leave the device off all day. Cum three times and I'll leave it off until you misbehave again."

It was an exercise in pacing himself. If he could hold back a little then maybe Jason could manage twice, but could he recover enough to produce enough for a third? Sam doubted that he could manage but it was risky to under estimate a teen's recuperative powers.

Sam was convinced that Jason would not manage four when he jerked off with such gusto that he released a week's frustration in less than thirty seconds. Jason continued to pound away, determined to be free of the device. Sam gently played with the boy's balls as if stimulating them and to his surprise he felt them draw up as Jason's body tensed and a dribble of cream escaped.

There was a sheen of sweat covering Jason's body as he desperately tried to cum for the third time. Sam took pity on him and moved his hand away, softly murmuring, Rest, in his ear. He continued with his gentle playing and Jason groaned appreciatively. Jason gradually relaxed his body and they shared a time of gentle loving.

"OK! Let's see what you can do," Sam said at last and Jason resumed his energetic pumping.

Time was running out and Sam did not think that the boy would make it but suddenly Jason grimaced and his tummy tensed. A couple of strings oozed out, not even reaching his navel but Jason settled back with a contented and triumphant grin on his face.

Sam kissed him gently on the lips.

"Well done, boy," he said, "Now, up you get. We've got work to do."

It would be an exaggeration to say that he could hardly walk but he definitely ached and he was exhausted. An hours sleep would have done him the world of good but he had his duties to attend to and besides he not want to miss the last of experiments.

Apart from Craig who was bewildered by events and stared disbelievingly at the the blue sphere as it appeared then faded leaving the platform of instruments behind, this last experiment was something of an anticlimax. While Sam had been away the transporter had been activated two or even three times a day every day. Using the data accumulated, the controls had been fined tuned until the settings were so precise that there were no apparent discrepancies.

It also puzzled Craig, that with such a special experiment going on that there were only two adults present and that Sam, the civilian, appeared to be in control.

Craig stared again as the blue light appeared again and the platform vanished. The field telephone rang and JWO Davis, the Adjutant confirmed that the test had been a complete success.

Sam was now ready for the meeting so he, Captain Heinred, SWO Williams, Pioneer David Thompson, Joe and Craig gathered around the dining table, the only way that there were enough chairs for them all to sit down together.

First they filled Craig in on the Summer's events. He was relieved to finally understand what was happening but almost shocked to discover that such things were possible.

"OK!" Sam said, "This is Craig."

They had already been introduced so the acknowledgements were brief and Sam continued, "Originally we had planned that Joe act as caretaker here. Now he's a little young and inexperienced. He also had some issues that he needed to sort so that they wouldn't get in the way but we hadn't planned on letting anyone else in on our secret.

"Joe resolved his issues in a spectacularly successful way and we're stuck with either losing Joe completely or gaining Craig."

Sam waited for the chuckles to die down before adding, "We can employ Craig as a housekeeper and if he wishes we can send him on a hotel management course. Joe can act as his assistant and if he wishes he can resume his schooling, courtesy of the Pioneers. It would mean Joe and Ricky working part time fitting it around their studies."

"How can Joe study on another world?" Craig asked, "He would have to move there."

"Everything depends on the transporter becoming fully functional," Sam explained, "When it is I'm assured that we can travel from world to world as easily as you walk into the next room. The hardest part will be getting his qualifications recognised here."

Craig still looked uncertain Sam explained further.

"Every morning, you will wave your boyfriend good bye as he disappears into another dimension on his way to school and every evening, you'll welcome him home with a plate of biscuits and a glass of milk, make him sit down and do his homework before you let him out to play."

Joe looked aghast at the description but Craig laughed with the others.

"No matter how you put it, it sounds weird," Craig said, "What about these other guys?"

"This squad will be disbanded." Captain Heinred replied, "It's previous AIC is facing bribery charges and we don't like the way that they were used for these experiments. However Pioneers Thompson, Cracknell and Smith have said that would like to continue being involved in the project and a couple of others are considering it. Taking in Pioneers Hargreaves and the other boy from this world, two volunteers to work as Mr. Jameson's extra runners we have an embryo new squad of nine, enough to need an AIC and a Pioneer NCO.

"The Science Centre runs apprentice and training schemes for a wide range of technical jobs and there are schools within cycling distance.

"We're still keen to exchange your mass produced technology, such as the Internet for our more specialised stuff. With the knowledge these boys have acquired about your world then they could prove useful support for the traders."

"Doesn't that mean that Pioneers will still at risk from these experiments?" Sam asked.

"Yes." Captain Heinred replied, "But if they're interested in the work, know the risks and have an AIC whose primary interest is their well being then that's a different matter."

"Fair enough," Sam said, "So how safe is the transporter now."

"The readings are now consistent and within tight limits. We could continue testing but I don't see any point. Once the beacon gave us a fixed point landing zone the practice followed the theory perfectly."

"Dave Thompson wants to get work experience with the scientists before applying for University." SWO Williams said, "Pioneer Cracknell's begun a comparison of our two worlds and wants to continue. He's willing to keep using the transporter. One of the cooks wants to keep getting supplies of imported food so he wants to stay near by and Pioneer Tyrone reckons he'll get good work experience with the electricians there."

"If I'm still asked to act as AIC then I'll only agree to boys using the transporter providing testing continues and it's carefully monitored," Sam said, "If any variation shows up then we immediately cease operations.

"Joe, the parents of the other Pioneers knows what's happening here. I'm thinking that we should brief your Mother."

Joe looked a little uncomfortable.

"I've already said something," he said nervously, "I said that I might have a chance to study but it would be somewhere I couldn't keep in touch easily. She asked if it had anything to do with where those boys came from and I said yes."

"When did you have this conversation?" Sam asked.

"This morning. When I called her to say Craig was coming with us. She said something about him not distracting me from the chance Mr. Jameson had given me."

"I don't like questions being asked about the boys." Captain Heinred said, "I think it settles the question on whether there should be more testing. We have to leave as soon as possible."

"I agree," Sam said, "Brian. Go and phone the laboratory. Tell them why we need to move quickly and ask when we can start."

As SWO Williams left the room, Sam said, "You handled it well, Joe. You could have mentioned it in the car but that's my only complaint."

"Yes sir," Joe said, "I didn't think about the security side. I was more worried that I'd said too much."

They waited quietly for Brian to return.

"They went on a bit about changing priorities but I explained that security had become a higher priority and we can start tonight but there's a mass restriction and we can only send four at a time."

"Well done, SWO Williams," Sam said, "Captain Heinred can go first. If his atoms aren't scattered across the Cosmos, we'll start sending the boys. How do we arrange the order.

JWO Davies should go in the first group and take command as the squad reforms there." SWO Williams said, "I'll go in the last group. Pioneer Smith will want to be in the last group as well. I'd like one of the cooks to stay with you and I think David Thompson should be in the last group as well. That way you've got Pioneers to look after you and help sort out any problem that crops up. Pioneer Cracknell will want to record events so he can go in the second to last group."

Brian continued to allocate boys to groups. Where he saw no reason for them staying, he organised them by sending the youngest first. Sam could not fault his reasoning

Rather than miss seeing the Pioneers leave, Joe phoned his mother to say that he was delayed and that he and Craig would see her tomorrow.

As they got themselves organised the tension increased until they could almost feel it. Dead on time the transporter appeared and after the briefest of nervous hesitation Captain Heinred stepped on it and disappeared in the now familiar blue sphere.

It seemed to take ages before the phone rang and a relieved Captain Heinred spoke to them over a speaker. It was an incredible moment as the boys cheered, hugged and kissed each other in relief. Even Sam was caught up in the excitement so it was a while before he succeeded in calming SWO Williams enough for them to start restoring order.

At last the transporter reappeared and the first four boys got onto it. The excitement was more restrained but when they suddenly heard JWO Davis' voice over the speaker there was a mass sigh of relief. The next two departures were not exactly routine but the operation was going smoothly.

Jason was in tears when he left and SWO Williams was not far short.

"Thank you for everything, sir," he said and saluted, "I hope you can continue as our AIC."

He was the last to step onto the transporter and the last four pioneers in their turn vanished.

Sam paused to take stock of the situation. For the first time since the beginning of Summer, everyone he knew about were in their home world. Joe had truly found himself and was standing beside him along with his new boyfriend and Ricky was there looking sad at the loss of his new friends.

The phone rang.

"The transporter is a terrific success." Captain Heinred said, "The Pioneers are being reunited with their families. Pioneer Smith's feeling a bit left out. His Aunt and Uncle couldn't get anyone to look after their own kids and just sent him a card. I don't suppose you want him back over there, do you?"

"I'd love to have him back," Sam said, "If you reckon it's safe please send him if he wants to come. "I don't think one stranger will be a problem, do you?"

"You know your world better than I do but if you needed to, you tie him up and hide him in a cupboard. I think the little tyke would even enjoy it."

Sam laughed.

The blue sphere had appeared while they were talking and Jason stepped off the platform.

"Welcome back," Sam smiled, "Enjoy your trip home?"

Jason scowled.

"Home?" he exclaimed, "All I rated there was a card that no one bothered to sign. I'm home now that I'm back with you."

"Maybe I should adopt you," Sam said.

Jason's face lit up into one of his trademark grins.

"Yes please."

"OK!" Sam said trying to collect his thoughts, "I'd like Ricky and Jason to share one guest room, Joe and Craig can share another. I expect Jason will be in my bedroom more than Ricky's but that's how I'd like the arrangements to seem like. We'll have a lazy day tomorrow and see what else needs sorting out."

Sam glanced at his watch. It was just before nine. The months of worry about the boys, the drive back from London and the tension of the returning them safely had taken it's toll and he was exhausted.

"I'm going to bed," he announced, "Joe, If it's not too late you can go to your mother's. I'll ring you sometime tomorrow and tell you when I need you."

With that he headed off for the bedroom and was asleep before his head hit the pillow. When he finally woke the following morning he found Jason, spooned up to him with his cock firmly sandwiched between them. As he became fully awake he saw Ricky laying on the other side of the bed. He was awake and Sam could see that he was wearing a top and shorts.

"It seemed lonely without the others," he explained sheepishly, "I'll go if you want to play with Jason."

"No, that's all right," Sam said, "I'm still winding down a bit so I'm in no rush. Jason'll wait until I'm ready."

Ricky lay back and relaxed.

"It's going to be weird when school starts again," he said, "I just hope I don't have to write an essay about what I did on my holiday."

Sam laughed quietly but in truth he felt at a loss as well. He could not be lonely while Jason was around but he had completed his business obligations and without the boys he felt as if had nothing to get up for.

He was letting Jason sleep. Between the excitement of returning to his own world and the indifference of his family he had been through hell emotionally. Ricky was lost in his own thoughts satisfied that there were other people in the same room so Sam dozed contentedly until the phone rang. It was Mrs Hargreaves, Joe's mother and she wanted to come up to the house to see him as soon as possible.

The ringing had brought the other two boys to full consciousness so Sam sent them off to get washed and dressed. Once they were ready, Ricky headed confidently for the kitchen and sent Jason to check the link to the other world.

Sam was a little concerned at what was bothering Mrs Hargreaves. He warned Jason and Ricky not to behave like Pioneers or sex slaves, looked around to make sure that there was nothing amiss and then rushed his breakfast so that he was ready to greet her.

When she arrived he showed her into the living room and they all settled comfortably down.

"I've never seen Joe so happy," she said, "Thank you for all that you've done for him. The thing is, I'm a little confused. You offered him a job, seem to have taken it away and given it to Craig while Joe is going back to school somewhere so remote that I won't be able to contact him. Between them they'll look after Ricky and keep this place going as some sort of shop. I can accept that Joe is gay but I'm a little concerned about how an openly gay couple are going to be treated in the village and I'm worried that Joe could be bullied at this new school of his."

She paused, "I'm sorry but I probably sound as muddled as Joe does."

Inwardly Sam breather a sigh of relief. This was something he could handle.

"As you know I work in I.T. and I've sold my business because I planned on doing some research into a completely new project that I was going to set up in those sheds out the back. Over the summer, I've discovered that there's a laboratory already to start on the same research and we've joined forces."

At least it's the truth so far, he thought.

"I offered to employ Joe as a handyman or caretaker but it seems that this house could be used to put up guests who've come about the project so Craig will be employed as a housekeeper with Joe working under him.

Sounds reasonable so far. Sam decided.

"Now the laboratory has varied training and scholarship schemes for youngsters. They're not restricted to scientific fields but also the ancillary jobs. They'd send a gardeners assistant to horticultural college if he showed promise.

OK I'm confusing another world and the Pioneers with a laboratory but it's still not bad.

"Anyway Joe's impressed me this Summer and so they'll give him a chance to catch up with his schooling and if it works out he'll get further education."

"I understand now." Mrs Hargreaves said, "So how come he'll be out touch or a long way away?"

Should I tell her it's because it'll all be happening on a parallel Earth. Sam wondered, Joe hasn't. Maybe we should wait until we can set up a demonstration for her.

"No unauthorised transmitters are permitted on the laboratory grounds," he said, "The ban includes mobiles. The site was chosen because it's a radio black spot. You can't even pick up a TV signal very easily. Personally I think it's a bit over the top but some of the work is right on the edge of what's possible."

"It's a bit like the ban on mobiles in hospitals, I suppose," Mrs Hargreaves interrupted, "I can understand that they wouldn't want Joe to spoil an experiment costing millions so that he could phone his mum even if it was only a slight risk."

God, she's going for it, Sam thought to himself, We're in the clear.

"So how come you've got a young boy moving in with you." Mrs Hargreaves asked, "Why hasn't he gone home?"

Sam sat for a moment in stunned silence.

"My parents are dead and I used to live with an Aunt and Uncle," Jason burst out, "They don't want me. Sam's been like a Dad to me and I want to stay with him. When I mentioned it they just seemed relieved."

As he spoke, tears filled his eyes and he rushed over to Sam flinging his arms around his neck.

You're overdoing it, Sam thought but as the sobbing continued, he realised that it was real. The rejection of his family had hurt Jason far more than he realised and all the pain and loss had boiled over.

As Jason settled down onto Sam's lap, still holding him tight, Sam looked at Mrs Hargreaves.

"I'm so sorry," she said, "Maybe I'm just as narrow minded as some of the other fools in the village. What with you being single and all the boys you've had staying here, there's been a bit of gossip. Then Joe announced that he's gay and is bringing his boyfriend home. Ricky's parents don't know you and were asking about you, so I suppose I did start wondering."

"I thought you were cool with us," Joe said angrily.

"I am." Mrs Hargreaves replied, "But I still need to get used to it and I am worried about how some of them in the village are going to react."

"There were a couple of gay guys in school," Joe replied, "Most didn't care. Jason Archer gave them a hard time time but only because they were younger than him. He'll run a mile if Craig even looks at him."

"I'd better be going." Mrs Hargreaves said, "Thank you for explaining things. I think young Jason needs your attention more than me."

"Why don't you take Jason and have a lie down," Craig suggested after she had gone. "We'll start earning our keep down here."

Sam found himself carrying Jason up the stairs. Much to Sam's surprise Jason began removing his clothes before they were in the bedroom and made it clear that Sam should do the same. Still following Jason's lead, Sam found himself lying on his side with Jason's head resting on his thigh, gently sucking his cock. Jason grunted contentedly as Sam wrapped his arms around him and gently stroked his back.

He was sure that Jason was not thinking of sex. It seemed as if the boy was using him as a human dummy or pacifier, absorbing the feeling of security and of being wanted that he so desperately needed. Jason's cock began to swell but when Sam tried to play with it, Jason pulled his arms back around him.

Jason stayed close to Sam for the rest of the day and the only other incident was an invitation for them to cross over to the other world the next day for a conference.

Jason was far happier the next morning. He woke with a raging hard on and it only took a gentle stroking to discover that Sam was just as eager. Sam was half awake by then and obeyed Jason's command to lie on his back.

Jason straddled his man and allowed himself to be impaled by Sam's rigid man cock. He was not fully back to being Sam's slave after the trip to London and this was to be the first step in surrendering to Sam so he avoided touching his own cock and concentrated on Sam's body.

Gradually they both picked up a rhythm as Jason rode up and down as Sam bucked his hips. Suddenly he grabbed the boy's hips and pulled him down as his body tensed and his cock pulsed with energy. Oblivious to everything except the need to empty his balls he pumped his seed deep into his beautiful boy.

As Sam's moment of ecstasy passed he became aware that Jason was still kneeling across him, with Sam's softening cock still inside him. He was still with his hands behind his head with his rampant cock pressed rigidly against his stomach.

"What are you waiting for," Sam asked.

"Orders, Master," Jason replied, "I'd like to use the time I gained to jerk off please."

"We're making a new start today," Sam said, "There's going to be a lot of changes. So here's a something for you to think about. Do you want to be my son or my slave. You may not jerk off until you've decided. If you want to be my son then you don't need my permission and if you want to be my slave then you'll wait until I've time to do it for you."

"I'm your slave," Jason said without hesitation, "You give me stuff and I give you me. It's all I've got and I want to."

"OK then," Sam said, "You're back to being naked all the time. I'll not put a chastity device on you unless I need to, but you'll only cum when I give you permission. I'll not make you earn wanking time but if you're not hard and desperate I'll assume you've jerked yourself off and punish you."

"Yes Master," Jason said.

Sam gave up. Jason would try to cope with everything that Sam threw at him. Sam was his man and he had to prove himself worthy. In fact, the tougher Sam made things the prouder Jason would become.

Sam turned his mind to the day ahead. They were scheduled to travel around midday in two groups. Craig, Joe and Ricky would go in the first group followed by Sam and Jason. Sam waited to see if Jason would have second thoughts and at least ask for a pair of shorts but the boy was still buck naked and displaying his rampant hard on when they stepped onto the platform. It was Jason's fourth transport so he was used to it and did not affect his throbbing member.

Sam, on the other hand was distinctly nervous. He still had doubts about the reliability of the system and wondered at the reaction to Jason's nudity. He watched as the familiar blue sphere appeared except that this time, he was watching from inside it. The view of his property faded to be replaced by a hangar like building full of equipment. They waited until the sphere had gone then Captain Heinred stepped forward to greet him.

"Welcome," he said and glanced at Jason, "Still your slave, I see. Could he go with this medical orderly please. He's made four trips now and so we'd like to check him out. Please don't be offended but we also wish to ensure that this is what he wants."

"I'm not offended," Sam replied, "Jason, obey the medics as if they were my orders."

Jason was blushing furiously. He had not expected the orderly to be female and it was going to be a different matter being scrutinised by women even if he was not interested sexually. Sam saw his embarrassment and ignored it. He was even secretly glad that there were things that could upset the boy's composure.

Sam was shown round the complex and introduced to various people. It was all something of a blur as he was shown laboratory after laboratory and met person after person. A few stood out, the technician that they had first spoken to over the phone, SWO Williams, grinning widely as he greeted his AIC and the new DOO, Director Of Operations, who had replaced the one responsible for the original accident.

He was glad when he was finally shown into a large lounge where everyone could relax. There was a moments humour when Jason returned. Most of his body was blushing bright red and he seemed close to tears though at least his cock hung at rest. Concerned Sam asked what was wrong. It seemed to make matters worse as Jason's face turned purple.

"They wanted a sperm count," he spluttered, "I had to do it front of them."

"And?" Sam prompted.

It just spurted and I couldn't control it. I splashed some of them."

"It sounds like a healthy thing to do in a medical," Sam said trying not to laugh. "I take it that you collected enough for the test."

Jason nodded miserably.

"Things aren't settled yet," Sam said, "You can change your mind if you want to but if you remain a slave I'll expect you to deal with all sorts of unpleasant things."

Jason's colour began returning to normal. If Sam expected him to cope then he would but it was Joe's turn to look worried.

"They've said that I'll have regular medicals when I start crossing over regularly for school," he asked nervously, "Will I have to do that?"

"They did treat him more like a laboratory animal," Sam replied, "We're already involved in using the transporter so we're going to be part of the long term testing. You can demand to be treated with a lot more respect and privacy."

"Definitely," the DOO explained, "Our safety limits are far more stringent than on your world. We're certain that there'll be no long term effects but we'll still monitor all travellers for problems so we'll pick them up a long time before they even approach our limits.

Joe seemed reassured and they discussed various aspects of the trading operation that they planned on setting up.

"So all that's left is, for you to see your new home over here." Captain Heinred said, "and meet your other runners of course. They're twelve and fourteen years old, gay and fascinated by the the way you treat Jason. Actually, there were several volunteers. These two are bright enough but easily bored with academic work. Maybe you can do something with them."

In some ways, Sam felt as if he was home. He was accepted, was surrounded by people giving him a purpose in life and had a brand new world to explore. He did not expect his new life to be free of problems or quiet but he also knew it was going to be fun and he was looking forward to it.

Part 1 - The End