Warning: Violence, sexual and physical, may be extreme at times. Additional problem areas may include rape, S & M, bondage, hurt/comfort, strong language, sex between women and men, women and women, maybe men and men. This story originally posted at a soon to be closed site with a much funnier intro.

Feedback: p.phair@comcast.net and you can visit my web site at www.phair1.com

Tess sat at her father's desk and worked the numbers for the hundredth time with paper and pencil after the computer seemed unable to provide an escape. Regardless of her nips and tucks to the budget, there appeared to be no way around a tough winter. Her only escape seemed to be the one thing she could not do. She grimaced at the cruel lesson her late father was teaching her.

"My dearest, baby sister, Contessa!" The man bounded into her study with a pretty young slave in tow.

"Tosca, I can think of fifty or more of my household who would have tried to stop you from coming in here. If any of them are harmed then you will suffer my ill will," Tess sat back in the creaking old leather chair.

"I wouldn't hurt slaves doing their master's bidding," he grinned as he flopped in the chair opposite the desk "Unless, they got in my way."

Tess studied her disheveled brother with a practiced detachment. Tosca's clothes had been white once. The silk Republic suit was now a stained, torn, and wrinkled mess. The man was handsome with strong features like herself but his boyish good looks had been lost to his addictions years ago. His black hair, prematurely graying at the temples, was a filthy, uncombed mess. Permanent circles beneath his eyes were testament to hours, perhaps, weeks of indulgences. He reeked of sweat, smoke, semen, and intoxicating syrup. If not for his trust fund then the man would surely be dead in a matter of days. Yet another burden for Tess to carry.

"What do you need?" She sighed.

"Well, I was hoping for a fair deal. No charity this time! This slave is worth thirteen hundred credits, if not more," he pushed the little blonde forward.

"That's a steep price for a picker," Tess allowed a hollow smile at her greedy brother.

"She's no picker! She's a pleasure slave, silly girl," he missed his sister's humor. "What she does with her mouth..."

Tess silenced him with a wave of her hand. Grabbing the scanner, she approach the slave and pulled her left arm out straight. Tess felt the slave stiffen in her grasp but there was no attempt to pull away. The slave had obviously been well broken. The bar code results read back in the window of the scanner. Tess missed Tosca's nervous

swallow as she raised her eyes to meet his.

"Leave your account number and I will transfer the credits," Tess hummed as she thumbed the bar code burned onto the soft, fair skin of slave's forearm.

"Well, that's the thing! Accounts, banks, tellers, tiny slips of paper are not part of my world view these days. Couldn't you just give me the credits here?" He sighed nervously.

Tess stepped back to the desk to lean her long frame against the solid wood. She thought for several minutes as she tapped the scanner against her leather pants but never took her eyes off the slave. The petite blonde kept her gaze fixed on Tess's boots. It was obvious to Tess the girl was afraid, as well she should be considering the situation.

"Tosca, I do not keep credits here at the Manor. It would be far too tempting for you," she ignored his feigned look of shock. "I'll write you a check to take to my bank in town. They'll cash it for you. What's your name, girl?"

"Chiem 12 24," the slave answered automatically without looking up.

"RESPECT YOUR NEW MASTER, BITCH!" Tosca cracked the slave on her bare thigh with his short crop. "Her title is LORD of the Manor, MASTER of Westerly. Which, if you must know, was granted her by our father. Leaving me, with a tiny allowance, the very model of the near do well brother," his tone was bitter but his smile broad.

"I'm sorry, Master. I won't forget again, Master," the slave winced in pain as Tess handed Tosca the check.

Tosca was grinning when he stood to kiss his sister good-bye. He had to stretch a bit to make up for her four inch advantage. Before he could end the embrace, Tess wrapped her arms around his neck to whisper in his ear.

"If you ever lay a hand on my property again, I will beat you until you can't even piss!"

Tosca stumbled when she abruptly released her hold. There was no hint of humor or retreat from the threat on her face. He cleared his throat and bowed to her power before fleeing the room.

Tess returned to the desk and her computer to dial in the number the scanner had provided. She waited patiently for the connection. Several long moments of whirls and clicks and rings past before a face appeared on her monitor.

"Saunders here, what do you want?" The fat man burped.

"Iggie, it's Tess," she smirked as the startled man righted himself in his chair and wiped his greasy mouth.

"Contessa, sweetheart, I was just this minute thinking about you. What would prompt you to call me?" The fat man was clearly smitten.

"You posted a runaway," Tess ignored the surprised gasp from the slave. "I have her in my study at the moment."

"Did she steal anything?" Saunders fumed, "So help me Tess, I'll flog her myself for bothering you. How can I make this up?"

"Let me explain," Tess sighed wearily as she finally sat in her chair to face her old friend.

"What's wrong? Tess, are you injured? Did my runaway hurt you? Talk to me, honey, you're scaring me. Do you want me to come over?"

"No, but thank you," he was sweet on her, no doubt about it. "It seems my brother stole this slave from your household. I would like to pay you twice her price to keep the authorities out of it. The credits are payable at the end of this call."

"That Shit, Tosca! But my slave is no better running off with him. She has a history, that one," he chewed his lip trying to think of a better solution for both of them. "Let me send Gino over to get her out of your hair and I'll smooth the feathers of the Inspectors. Tosca and you never need to be mentioned. The slave will get twenty five for her trouble."

It was Tess's turn to wince. The suggestion would keep Iggie's house and her own above investigation but the slave would suffer. Twenty five lashes could kill the slender woman. It would, at the very least, maim her and probably make her useless to Iggie. That would leave her worse off than just dead.

"If I buy her then the Inspectors will not need to follow up, you are more than reimbursed, Tosca stays out of trouble for now, and..."

"And you get stuck again," Iggie shook his head. "If you want to do it this way then I'm fine with the arrangements. I just hate that your bastard brother does these things to you and gets away with it over and over again."

"Ig, if you hate it then do me a favor and don't invite Tosca to your place anymore."

"Tess, he was never on the A list and he is off the B list as of right now!" The man smiled as the screen clicked off.

Tess ran her hands through her long black hair in a feeble attempt to clear her head. She pinched her eyes closed willing the growing headache away. It was unfathomable to her that Tosca could steal from family yet now he was stealing from their friends as well. The hitching breathes of the slave brought Tess back to her immediate duties.

"What's your name?"

"Chiem 12 24, Master," the voice was soft, almost soothing.

"That is your sale location and date. Tell me you name," Tess watched the slave's cheeks pale and a tremor of fear shake her body. "They broke you of your name?" The slave nodded. "You were taken late then. How old, fourteen, fifteen?"

"Twelve, Master," the blonde was gagging on the waves of nausea assaulting her from the memory of the horror she had barely managed to survived.

Tess walked over to stand in front of the slave. She placed her strong hands on the slim shuddering shoulders. The slave's tunic was soaked in sweat.

"Let us get one thing clear, I know you are lying to me but I also know you are sick from the conditioning the traders put you through. So, I'm going to let this one pass but if you ever lie to me again...," Tess slapped the slave hard across the face with an open hand, "Do we understand each other?"

"Yes, Master, thank you, Master," she gasped against the stinging pain in her cheek.

The door to the study opened without a knock but Tess was not surprised. She continued to hold the shoulders of the trembling slave as an older man entered. His hair was marked by graying strands pulled back tight in a pony tail but his physical state contained a rugged youthfulness from his years on the farm. His simple blue shirt and pants labeled him clearly as a slave. Tess glanced over at him and was warmed by his half smile and wink.

"Poe, this is a new purchase courtesy of Tosca. See that she is properly dressed before sending her to the fields," Tess released her hold and returned to her desk leaving the slave swaying.

"If I may, we should keep her in the main house," his voice was strong but subdued as his station required.

"That would not be fair. All Manor slaves aspire to a placement at the main house in hopes of earning their freedom. Just as prescribed in my father's will. Letting one jump ahead will cause trouble," Tess frowned at Poe's breach of protocol.

"More trouble than a pleasure slave in the dorms? More trouble than every stud you own trying to mount her? More trouble than their spurned bitches trying to tear her to pieces in a jealous rage?" He raised an eyebrow.

Tess closed her eyes again. She let her long fingers massage throbbing temples. The headache was growing with every word out of Poe's mouth but she could not let him win so easily.

"Girl, what are your skills?"

"I ah, um," the slave blushed hotly making Tess feel guilty for asking the question, "I know how to give any kind of sexual pleasure you desire, my Lord."

"This is a farm that houses five hundred and provides food for the neighboring town of sixteen hundred. We don't have time for sexual indulgences if we plan to survive. What else can you do?"

"I will do anything you command, Master," Tess was not prepared for the answer or the slave meeting her gaze head on.

"Poe," Tess cleared her throat under the pure green eyes studying her, "clean this slave up and get her something proper to wear and send her...,"

"... to your private stable to replace Cory who will begin work as my apprentice," Poe finished Tess's sentence.

"Fine, have it your way but I want double ankle shackles and her chained to a post at night. I will not tolerate her running away from me," she glared at Poe, daring him to speak but he kept his counsel. "Go, leave me to my work."

The pretty blonde slave eased herself into the steaming tub of hot water as Poe had instructed. Her body seemed to ache in time with her heartbeat. Every muscle relaxed in the apparent safety of the warmth surrounding her allowing the nerves to finally scream protest at their abuse. A large hand on her shoulder startled her into a cower.

"Easy," Poe coaxed. "I mean only to tend your wounds, girl. The salve will feel cold at first but then it will numb and heal. No worries, no fears," Poe felt the slave relax under his gentle touch and calming words. "First, we'll heal your body. Then, we'll calm your mind. Last, we'll make you whole."

"That may not be possible," the slave allowed a silent tear to escape down her cheek to find it's own freedom in the tub of a billion tears.

"You might be surprised by my abilities," Poe chided with a grin. "Once, I made Master Tess smile with just my words. Another time, I made her laugh with only my face."

"Ahh, you're a magician then," the slave deadpanned.

"Humor? That will go a long way here," Poe chuckled before taking a more serious tone. "Give this time, girl. It may be your salvation. Now, soak the filth from your body while I see about clothes to keep you warm. The skimpy tunic you arrived in would never do during our harsh winters."

The slave watched silently as Poe left the room. His care was tender. If he had meant her harm then it would have been easily accomplished here. His words were almost paternal but that particular thought was best left forgotten. She would trust Poe, she decided. For better or worse, he seemed to care about her and that was more than anybody else right now.

Once she had dried off, the slave dressed in the blue cotton trousers and long sleeved shirt Poe had found for her. The pair left the main house for the black smith next to the common stables at the foot of the hill from the Manor house. Poe spoke softly as they walked. He told her a about the estate as if they were on a tour. The large field in the north sector provided enough grain for the farm and three surrounding towns. To the south, there was cattle for milk, meat, and leather. In the east, the Thom River ran wild with fish. It would appear, the Manor of Westerly was a prosperous venture by any measure.

"L'tish, there is some business here. Come on, I need you," Poe's tone was calm but commanding.

A large man emerged from the back room. His bare, black chest was covered in a layer of sweat. He nodded in the pair's direction. Poe took the slave by the arm and guided her through the door L'tish held open.

"Master Tess commands this slave to be double chained at the ankle," Poe spoke as he guided her to a vertical restraining table.

"You don't need to tie me down," the blonde looked into Poe's bright blue eyes. "I won't resist you."

"It is for your own safety," Poe moved her back into the fixed restraints. "Chaining can be a frightening and painful experience. If you jerk around then you might get burned."

The slave allowed Poe to tie her wrists and thighs to the back board. Once she was secured, L'tish knelt to measure the slender ankles with his well trained hand. He stood and made several gestures to Poe.

"No, it must be double chains. The master commands," Poe answered.

L'tish made several more harsh gestures and grimaced. He turned his attention to the blonde tied to the back board. His hands rose and danced before her in a graceful ballet.

"L'tish wants you to know he does this at the command of your master. He promises not to hurt you but reminds you to remain completely still," Poe waited while the black smith spoke more with his hands. "He suggests you close your eyes. If you see his tools then you may become fearful."

"He can't talk?" The slave asked sadly.

"No, L'tish can't talk anymore. His first master cut out his tongue for lying," Poe explained, "he was eight. L'tish earned his freedom when Master Tess inherited the Manor."

"He can understand me then?" Poe nodded yes to the slave's question. "L'tish, do what you must. I promise I will not move."

The large man smiled at the brave, young slave and made a sweeping motion around his face with an open hand.

"L'tish thinks you are very beautiful," Poe smiled seeing the slave's blush.

L'tish went to work stoking the fire and gathering the needed materials. He made two trips to the outer room looking for the right size shackles. On his return, he gestured wildly at Poe.

"I realize she is small but you have to do this," Poe waited while the obviously angry black smith interrupted with sharp hand movements. "L'tish, I'm sorry, you're right. You are a free man and don't have to do anything but do you really want to leave this poor girl to the skill of Jaepe? Because the Master commands she be chained, there is nothing I can do to stop it. If you refuse then I'll have to get Jaepe."

The black smith's shoulders drooped in defeat. He shook his head no. Pulling the equipment in order, L'tish sighed heavily unable to stall any longer. He wiped his hands on a clean rage and walked over to the bound slave. His large, sausage like fingers stroked her eyes closed.

"Thank you," she breathed truly thankful for care shown her by the two men about to chain her.

"Cory, Cory, where are you?" Poe called out as he entered the Master's private stable.

"Coming," the boy ran in almost as fast as he spoke. "My chores are done, Poe. Can I go with you to help treat the field hands?"

Poe tried to smoother the grin spreading across his face. It would not do for the boy to get full of himself but Poe admired Cory's spirit and eagerness to learn.

"Not today but only because Master Tess has requested your help in another matter," Poe saw the boy straight up to stand three inches taller.

"Me? The Master requested me?" His brown eyes twinkled at the honor.

Poe pulled the blonde out from behind him. She stumbled over the chains at her feet but caught herself before falling.

"This is the new stable hand. Teach her the chores this week and next week you will join me in the Manor as my apprentice."

"Really, Poe?" Cory was breathless. "I'm going to the Manor with you?"

The boy rushed forward and hugged Poe. The man placed a gentle hand on the curly head to ease him. Promotions to the Manor could overwhelm grown men to the point of fainting. Every slave of Westerly knew freedom was just hard work away after moving to the Manor. Cory would be no exception.

"Now, teach this girl as well as you wish me to teach you."

"Certainly," Cory turned to offer a welcoming hand shake. "I'm Cory and this is the Master's personal stable. There is alot of work keeping it looking this good so pay close attention," the young boy's earnest nature brought a smile to the blonde slave's face. "Any questions, just ask. Like Poe says, ask a hundred questions if you must just try not to ask the same question a hundred times."

Poe laughed out loud filling the air with his deep, rich voice. He had no idea how much the boy idolized him until that very moment. It was a good feeling being able to finally raise a child even if the boy was no blood of his.

"I'll leave you to get to work." Poe moved to return to the manor and then called back as an after thought, "Oh, Cory, set her up to sleep in the end stall. She's to be chained to the post at night."

The boy's enthusiasm damped at the directive but he nodded his agreement. When Poe left the stable, Cory examined the new slave carefully.

"Have you worked on a farm before or in a stable?"

"A small farm but that was a long time ago," the blonde kept her eyes down.

"Well, the stable is not as back breaking as planting and picking but it is still hard work. I'll show you around first then tell you about the chores. By the way, what is your name?"

"Chiem 12 24."

"Don't let Master Tess hear you say that," the boy hooted. "She won't have a slave on her farm called by a price tag."

The blonde began to cry. She dropped to her knees and buried her face in her hands. Her heartbreaking sobs echoed through the stable and roused the horses' nickering attention.

"Hey, don't cry. I'm only teasing. Master Tess is fair," Cory rubbed his hand on the her back and felt the rough skin under the cotton shirt. "Did they hurt you till you forgot?"

"Yes," she whispered feeling every inch the fool for weeping in front of the boy. "Sorry, it has just been a long day. I'm ready to learn my chores, I promise I can do it."

"It's okay here, you know," Cory was solemn. "I was in a bad place before too. They beat me and hurt me so I ran like you. Master Tess happened to be traveling in the village that caught me. They were going to hang me but Master Tess paid my price. She saved my life. I had to prove myself just like you. She double chained me and locked me to the post at night but see," he kicked out his leg. "She forgave me and unchained me after a few months. Now, I'm going to the Manor. If I do well then I'll be free."

"You seem too young to be so smart," the slave marveled at the boy.

"I've had good teachers," Cory laughed as he helped her up. "Now let's get to work."

Cory woke the new slave before sun rise on her first full day in the stables. They had worked long into the night before the boy decided they could take a few hours of sleep in the warm, sweet hay. As ordered, he had dutifully chained the slave to a post. Before waking her, he hurried off to get the key from Poe.

"Do you always get up at this hour?" the blonde yawned.

Cory tisked at the lazy woman and pulled her to her feet then set to work. He told her about the eight horses housed in the Master's private stable. Seven of them would be in her care. The Master's horse was off limits. Master Tess cared for her Rufo and nobody was allowed near the beast.

"Just as well," Cory whispered as he eyed the huge ebony horse, "there has never been a meaner animal on this earth. He took the last stable hand's thumb in one bite."

As if understanding the comment, Rufo pawed the ground beneath him bring up a cloud of dust. The horse snorted at the startled slaves. He did not stop his show of pride until the two retreated a step.

Deciding they had seen enough of the awesome animal, Cory turned their attention to the other horses. He explained the cleaning of the each and their stalls, feeding, exercise, and personality traits. The young boy worked his trainee until her belly rumbled in protest.

"I forgot about breakfast," he smacked his brown forehead with an open palm. "Lunch should be ready by now. Let me take you to the kitchen to meet Dinah."

The blonde was quite happy food would be within her reach soon. She had not eaten in almost three days. The combination of little sleep, less food, and heavy labor was making her light headed. She did not want to embarrass herself by keeling over on the boy.

It was a short walk from the private stable to the Manor's kitchen. Cory explained that the slaves working the upper portion of the estate took their meals in the kitchen. Master Tess had insisted on this when she returned to Westerly just prior to her father's death.

"People joked that the thought of slaves eating under his roof killed Lord Togo," Cory explained.

"He wasn't as fair as Master Tess?"

"I never met him but he was the one who cut out L'tish's tongue with his shaving razor."

The blonde paled even more. She was sorry to have asked the question. The mere thought of a grown man grabbing hold of a boy by the tongue and slicing ...

"Dinah," Cory pushed the kitchen door open, "is lunch ready?"

"Just pull up a chair and I'll get your plate. Wait a minute," the woman's voice took a sharp edge. "What do you mean bringing an ungrateful runaway into my kitchen."

The heavy set woman raced across the kitchen to grab the slave by the shirt and shoved her back over the threshold. The slave landed hard on her ass.

"Runaways don't eat under my Master's roof. Get your meal at the slop pales where all the pigs eat," the red head thumbed to the trash barrels at the far end of the yard.

"Dinah," Cory was stunned by her venom.

"Shut your mouth, if you know what's good for you!"

"Cory, it's okay," the blonde struggled to her feet. "The lady is right. I've done nothing to deserve her kindness. Master Tess has already given me more than I have earned," the slave backed away from the door several steps. "Thank you ma'am for showing me my place."

The door slammed shut with such force it rattled the glass. Turning toward the stable, she decided to wait until she was really hungry before clawing through the trash for a morsel. Her stomach growled in protest but she ignored it as she hurried back to the oblivion of work. Cory's return was no more than five minutes behind her but she was already cleaning the next stall.

"Chiem, I brought you a roll and butter," the boy smiled triumphantly.

"Cory, I won't take food out of your mouth," her empty stomach objected loudly.

"You're not. It is Dinah's. She thinks the dog got it," his grin faded when she did not smile at him. "What's the matter?"

"She's not wrong to think that. In her mind, a dog is getting her roll or, perhaps, a pig. To her I'm just an animal in need of training."

"So?" The boy forced the roll into her hands, "Dinah's a slave. Free people don't believe she is as well trained as a dog. And I know for a fact, Master Tess's prize pig sold for twice what Dinah's worth at last auction."

The blonde laughed around a mouthful of roll. Cory reveled in the lovely melody of her voice. He wished at that moment to always be able to make his new friend laugh like that.

"Thanks," she finished off the last bite of the most delicious food she had ever eaten. "Let's get back to work because I have about a hundred questions for you."

Cory grinned broadly as the beautiful woman smiled at him.

Tess had wandered from the Manor to the lower potion of the estate in hopes of easing the ache in her neck. Hours of studying the budget and crop projections had left her muscles cramped and heart heavy. She could see no way around selling off some land and slaves in order to save most of the Manor's staff and slaves from starvation for, at least, this season. She chuckled ruefully at the cruelty of Fate.

It was only two years before that Tess was in Yorkton studying English Literature. She and her bohemian friends rebelled, quietly at first, against the government of the Federated States. They longed for a return of the days of the Republic Union with the battle cry of "freedom for all." A political system their grandparents could not even remember. Young and foolish they ignored the warnings of their professors to plunge head long into direct confrontation with government troops by trying to free slaves before an auction. If Togo Westerly did not have money and influence then Tess would have gone to the Federation Prison for thirty years. Just like her friends did. The friends she abandoned the minute her father arrived with the bond agreement. Now, Tess realized she really did go to a prison that day. It just looked a bit different with a nice house, horses, and slaves.

She stopped short, surprised she had walked all back to her own stable without even noticing where she was going. Thinking that a ride might be in order, Tess stepped into the stable through the open rear door. Her heart lurched in fear at the sight of her newest slave standing on a milking stool inches from Rufo's stall. Tess froze in panic knowing her temperamental horse could do serious damage to this foolish girl if spooked.

"I'm sure our Master hasn't forgotten you. She just gets busy. So if you let me, I'll slide your feed bag on," the blonde spoke softly and gently adjusted the bag's straps on the quiet horse. "No living thing should go hungry."

The slave's voice eased Tess almost as much as it calmed her horse. Her worries were forgotten, for the moment. Tess found herself creeping closer to the source of the most pleasant sound she had ever heard. The tone resonated along Tess's breast bone sending out chills that turned her skin to goose bumps. She could not help herself, she reached out to touch the shoulder of the beautiful blonde.

"Oh, God," the slave would have fallen off the stool if Tess did not steady her. "Master, I'm so sorry, I was just..., please don't blame Cory! He told me Rufo was off limits but...it's so late," the slave's babbling caused Tess to grin, "and Rufo looked so hungry so...so, ...I'm so sorry, please, ..."

The blonde dropped to her knees at Tess's feet. Sobbing replaced the soothing tones that had filled the stable just a few moments earlier. Tess reached down to smooth the slave's golden hair as she hushed the tears.

"It's okay. I'm not angry. Thank you for caring enough about Rufo to risk your fingers," Tess knew she was enjoying the petting more than she should but she was willing to indulge herself. "Stand up, come on."

The slave quickly obeyed and wiped her tears away with the back of her hand. Stealing a glance at Tess, the blonde relaxed, slightly, finding only sincerity in those clear blue eyes.

"You are very pretty, girl," Tess breathed as she pulled the slave closer.

"Than...k...," the reply was swallowed in a delicate kiss.

Tess allowed her hands to roam along the firm, little body. She drew her closer still into the protective embrace. Tess had not noticed how fragile the slave was when she held her in the office.

"Yes, so very beautiful. Won't you tell me your name?" Tess was stroking the girl's flanks while she cooed in her ear, glad for the idle distraction from her problems. "You're safe here, in my arms. Tell me. Make me happy."

Conflict played across the delicate face. Her Master had commanded a response but the memory of her torture was preventing compliance. With a hesitant smile, the slave seemed to have reached a solution. She took Tess's left hand in her right and with the index finger of her own left hand she began to trace.

"J...O..., oh God, no," Tess thought in terror, "R...D," her heart beating wildly in her chest as the slave continued, "A...N."

The slave looked up innocently; relieved that she had been able to obey.

Tess lost her control. Fear turned to rage. Her hand snapped up and backhanded the slave as if on it's own. The blonde crumbled to the ground in a haze of pain and confusion. Tess pushed down a wave of horror at her actions to let her anger burn a little longer. Reaching down, she pulled the slave to her feet by the same silky hair she had so enjoyed caressing.

The enraged Master half dragged the frightened slave out of the barn. Tripping over her chains, the blonde fell face first in the dirty court yard. Tess proceeded to push, kick, and shove the nearly hysterical slave towards the Manor. Frustrated by their crawling pace, Tess grabbed her property by the hair once again and forced her to her feet.

"You had better hurry up, JORDAN!" Tess barked in the slave's face.

Understanding an answer was not needed, Jordan doubled her pace and prayed she could stay on her feet. Up the front stairs of the house, through the ornate door, passed the alarmed faces of the house slaves, up the stairwell to the second floor, a stumble earned her a slap, down the long hallway, to her Master's bedroom, and to her fate. Jordan collapsed in a heap when Tess released her hold on the soft blonde hair. Leaving her cowering on the floor, Tess slammed the door and turned on the monitor alert. The hum assured the room was free of listening devices.

"You can READ!" Tess hissed grabbing the slave by the throat to lift her off her feet. "How old were you when you were taken? And I want the truth this time!"

"Twenty, please," Jordan struggled to get her breath.

"Are you from the Northern Boundary?" Tess ignored the slave's pain.

"Please," Jordan was sure she would pass out, "you said, I was safe here," the strangle hold on her throat lessened and her feet were returned to the floor, "safe, with you."

The heart break in the voice took the fire out of Tess's fury. Jordan had believed the words spoken in passion. For a few fleeting seconds, the slave trusted that she was safe in her Master's embrace. Only to have Tess terrorize her.

"Tell me," Tess released her grip but wanted answers still.

"I was free born in the Northern Boundary. My father died and my mother remarried before I was three," Jordan defiantly kept her eyes focused on Tess. "Her husband never wanted me around but he waited until my mother died before he took me across the border to sell me to traders who didn't pay much attention to the law."

"You could have told any Auction Supervisor and they would have freed you," Tess needed for the slave to be at fault.

"The traders use, what did you call it, 'conditioning.' Well, they were really good at it too. I didn't talk for the first three months. As for the Auction Supervisors, they are as corrupt as the traders. And," Jordan brushed away a stray tear, "I have a younger half sister that my step father could legally sell. If I went back, he promised me he would take her over the border. I won't be responsible for that."

"Instead, you'll be responsible for Federation Agents liquidating all my slaves and seizing my property and tossing my sorry ass in prison," Tess grumbled, "because I have a slave that can read."

"Nobody knows," Jordan panicked with the first realization of the danger she placed her new Master in, "just you and me. I'll never do it again, I swear. I don't want anybody killed or you to go to jail. It was a mistake. You confused me. I just wanted to please you, I have to please you," the tears came in aching sobs. "I promise, I'll forget, I'll unlearn it, please, Master!"

Tess felt foolish listening to pathetic begging. The truth was she had started the whole thing. Attempting to seduce the slave, she left herself open to the trouble familiarity brings. How many times had Poe counseled her against passion with slaves? And now, Jordan stood before her pleading for her life because of Tess's wanton lust. No, not her life. The slave was pleading for the Manor, for the other slaves, for Tess but not for herself.

"Shh, it'll be all right," Tess tried to ease the girl, pulling her closer. "I was unprepared for this situation and lost my temper. We should be able to keep your secret between ourselves," The girl's crying did not cease much to Tess's distress, "Calm yourself, come on, easy, now. I'll keep you safe," the promise slipped out too quickly and was one more burden for Tess to carry.

Jordan buried her face in the soft cotton of Tess's blouse. She wrapped her arms around the strong body and clung like a second skin. In spite of her Master's actions in the stable, Jordan did feel safe snuggled into Tess's strong frame.

"Jordan," Tess kissed the silky blonde hair cradled at her breasts, relieved the tears were slowing, "that's a beautiful name. It maybe worth the risk just to be able to call you by such a enchanting name."

The slave rewarded Tess with a chuckle. Jordan was desperate to show her gratitude for being forgiven this terrible crime. The slave had only been taught one way to delight her Masters. Feigning bravery, Jordan slipped her hand into Tess's pants and kneaded the tight ass cheek that filled her palm. A moan hinted she was on the right road back into her Master's good grace.

"Master, I would like very much for you to be pleased with me," Jordan lifted her head to gaze into blue eyes heavy with arousal.

"I would like that too," Tess leaned down to resume the kiss that had been interrupted in the stable.

Feeling her passion rise again over her reason, Tess let her hands slip under the slave's blouse. The soft skin of her belly was warm and slightly sweaty after their struggles. Tess trailed small, nibbling kisses down Jordan's slender throat stopping only to suck more aggressively at the throbbing pulse point. Both Jordan's hands were squeezing Tess's ass in time with the kisses.

Tess knew she would not be able to hold out too long with that kind of attention so she decided to get an advantage and strip the girl. Reaching under the shirt and up the back, Tess stopped everything when she felt the scars. The hard, rough edges of the whip scars trapped her wandering finger tips. The hideous pain of the girl's captivity lay trembling beneath her touch. Images of another brutalized back raced through Tess's mind unchecked.

"Master, are you ill?" Jordan was concerned with Tess's abrupt halt.

"I, ah, I am neglecting my duties," Tess disengaged herself from the surprised slave and turned on her heals. "You may return to your work. I will be along in a while to see to Rufo."

"But," Jordan was interrupted by the opening of the door.

"Ah, there you are," Poe spoke directly to Jordan. "You must go to the stable at once. The horses are restless."

Jordan looked from Poe's firm face to her Master's slouching shoulders. She did not understand any of the last few moments but she knew no explanation would be forthcoming from the two silent, dark figures. Nodding her acceptance, Jordan rushed out the door to hurry back to where she had been dragged from no more than an hour before.

"The house is in quite an uproar," Poe waited until the door shut solidly behind the fleeing slave. "It took me some shouting to calm them."

"It was a misunderstanding," Tess decided she would shield Poe from the potentially deadly knowledge about Jordan.

"Your slaves are afraid you are becoming more like Togo everyday."

Tess sighed. She wanted to say it was not true. That her ruthless father's ways were behind them. If they gave her a chance then she would free them all. Tess dreamed of liberating the Manor from the clutches of slavery. But each day that hope was moving farther and farther out of her grasp. It would not surprise Tess if she was to wake one morning to find herself crueler than Togo himself.

"They may not be wrong," Tess turned to face Poe. "What am I going to do? The governor wants sixty percent of our harvest because...,"

"Because he spared you your rightful punishment," Poe finished for her.

"After his cut, then the villages must be fed before we can even think about our own house. So, I can lose slaves to starvation or sell them but that will mean even less food next year."

"And the governor will surely want seventy percent of the smaller harvest."

"It's all my fault," Tess flopped in a nearby chair.

"Yes, it is all your fault," Poe ignored her open mouthed shock at his directness. "Are you going to make things right by beating and bedding your slaves? Or, perhaps you plan to just make life worse for all of us because you are miserable?"

"Poe...?" Tess was stunned that he would try to goad her so.

The man crossed the room without another word. He pulled Tess to her feet and gave her more than a little pat on the cheek. Poe did not wait for his Master to regain herself.

"Listen to me," his tone was harsh as he held her inches from his face by the front of her shirt, "I lost my wife to your bastard father's relentless lust. You will not follow his example. I will not allow you to sully her memory by becoming the very image of her rapist, her murderer. Your mother deserves better than that!"

"I can barely remember her, Poe," Tess whispered trying to push out the one clear memory she had of the woman.

"That's why I'm here for you, my sweet Tessa," Poe released his hold seeing she had heard the truth. "She will never be truly lost to us as long as we honor her. Your cowardice happened and we must deal with the aftermath but you can not turn from our goal; her dream. I will not let you."

Poe let Tess cry her fears into his shoulder as he had done all her life. He would keep her on the path to freedom. Freedom for them all.

Early the next morning, Jordan was finishing with the last stall when a heavy hand settled on her shoulder. Spinning out from under the weight, she readied her shovel to defend herself. Poe's expression was controlled amusement.

"Do you mean to harm me?"

"Oh, no, I'm sorry, I didn't hear you," a spark of real fear in her voice as she dropped the shovel. "I would never..., so very sorry...,"

"Don't worry," Poe laughed lightly, "had you tried to strike me, I would have broken your neck before your muscles could flinch. Now, I need a horse. Who is ready to go?"

"Ace could use a run most." Then the girl found a little courage to ask, "Poe, are you allowed to ride?"

"Do you think I'm running away?" He chuckled.

"Oh, no, forgive me," she blushed. "It's just, I never met a slave that was allowed to ride."

"That's because our Poe is no ordinary slave," Tosca's voice made Jordan shiver with fright as the man entered the stable. "Are you, old boy?"

"Lord Tosca, does Master Tess know of your arrival?" Poe did not wait for a reply before turning to Jordan, "Be a good girl and go saddle Ace for me."

Jordan was glad for permission to put distance between herself and the wicked Lord. She turned to hurry out but was stopped short by his shout.

"Not so fast," Tosca grinned without humor. "Let me look at you. Ah, I see my sister has doubled chained you. That may not be effective enough for a runner like you. What do you think, Poe? I, myself, always preferred clipping the tendons of brats with itchy feet."

Poe stepped forward to insert himself between Tosca and the girl. The smell of the degenerate Lord over powered the horse's odor. His stench of filth was only made worse with stale stink of intoxicating syrup. Tosca had obviously been of a bender. The dangerous man was even more so now that he was tired and drunk.

"My Lord, I assure you, Jordan has settled well into the Manor. Please, let me escort you back...,"

"I DON'T NEED AN ESCORT TO MY OWN HOUSE!" Tosca swayed slightly. "Tell you what, why don't you go find your Master and tell her I bring news from the governor," Tosca smiled when Poe did not budge. "So predictable, I'll let that one go. Now Poe, be a good little slave and go find your Master! When you do, tell her the governor has reconsidered and wants seventy percent of the harvest."

Tosca pushed Poe aside to grab the blonde. He was sure it took all the slave's reserve not to strangle him. His hands roughly groped the girls breast. Squeezing and pinching, he was pleased when she winced. He loved wringing strangled whimpers from this slave. It was a shame he had to sell her so soon after stealing her. Especially regretful, now, that the money was spent.

"Well, my little bitch, I think Poe wants to watch. Okay by me," Tosca forced the girl to her knees, "Seems my pants are very tight in the crotch, see to it."

"My Master said I don't have to do this anymore," Jordan's wretched reasoning was slapped to an end.

"Be obedient, Jordan," Poe cautioned hoping to spare the girl a beating.

It would be too perilous to leave Jordan alone in the hopes he could find Tess in time. Poe decided he would stay to make sure Tosca limited the abuse.

"Oooo, he's a coach now," Tosca laughed. "Get to it, bitch."

Jordan steeled herself. She would not give the evil man the pleasure of seeing her cry. Quickly, she undid the snaps of the filthy pants and eased the engorged organ out. The angry red tip was weeping already. At least he would come as fast as before, she thought idly.

"Tell me it's the most beautiful tool you've ever seen."

"It's the most beautiful tool, my Lord," she replied without enthusiasm.

"And the biggest."

"The biggest, my Lord," even with the extra inch of grime, she was sure she had seen bigger eunuchs.

"Beg me for it."

"Oh, please, my Lord, let me pleasure you," she spoke what was required.

Tosca thrust his hips forward as she took him in her mouth. He knew he was close to spilling his seed but could do nothing to slow the pace. Control was never part of his world view. Two or three low grunts and he lost it. Disappointed that the girl had not suffered enough, he slapped her hard across the face after withdrawing.

"My Lord," Poe's voice was barely inhibited rage, "Master Tess will be most unhappy to learn of you beating her slaves."

"Master Tess, Master Tess," the pouty Lord mocked. "Tell me Poe, what doesn't make my sister unhappy."

Tosca, bored with the slaves, wandered out of the stable as rudely as he entered. Poe watched him until he was out of sight. Having his back to the man was not something Poe was willing to risk. Satisfied Tosca had indeed left, Poe went to Jordan.

"Help me saddle the horse." He lifted her face to inspect the split lip. "Not so bad. Some cool water will keep it from swelling. Then stay in the loft for the rest of the morning. If Tosca comes back before I do, hide. Even if he sees you, I doubt he'll be able to climb the ladder in his condition."

"Thank you, Poe," she kissed his palm.

"I'm not your lord, girl, no empty thanks are needed. You have nothing to be grateful for this morning," Poe put his arm around her as they headed for the horses in the outer coral.

Tess listened to Tosca ramble on and on around mouthfuls of food. She had insisted he bath before lunch but it did little to sober him. At least, the smell was a bit better.

"...so the governor says, 'Tosca, give it to him up the'..."

"Yes, that is a charming story," Tess could stand the torturous tale no more, "but why did the governor raise the percentages."

"To punish you! Tess, I thought you were the smarty of the family."

"And why did he think sixty percent was not enough to punish me?" She was sure of the answer when he smiled at her.

"Because I told him the rumors about a short fall on the crop and your still zealous desire to free your slaves," his eyes burning with hatred.

Tess was so exhausted she could not even get angry. She spent so many sleepless nights trying to save the Manor and here her worthless brother was more than ready to sacrifice her. Poe was right about Tosca; use him before he uses you.

"Listen, I need you to carry a reply to the governor for me," Tess began to set into motion events that could either save or destroy them but, at least, they would not be sheep waiting for slaughter.

"What? Am I the little message boy now? Use the computer or send Poe. He's the 'happy to be of service' slave. By the way, where was he going that he needed a horse."

"Tosca, if you would shut up then I'll explain everything. The computer lines are too easily tapped and Poe is heading to Hathport. Our storage units are beyond capacity and we haven't even started harvest yet."

"But, but, but the rumors," Tosca was crestfallen.

"I started the rumors of a short fall to get prices to climb. We've had a record fish haul, excellent cattle and dairy take," she grinned at his pained expression. "The harvest will just be more to an already overflowing yield. Poe's gone to ask for storage rentals at Hathport."

She watched her silent brother. His face was etched in disappointment. Tess wondered what thing she had done to him to make him hate her so. It, of course, was not what she did but what Togo had done. Naming her as the Master crushed her brother's dreams and ego.

"So, the seventy percent will not be an issue?" There was sadness in the voice.

"Tell him, I am so remorseful I will send seventy five percent," Tess took a big bite of pie. "Mmmm, try the cobbler. It is delicious."

"Yes, I'm sure it is." Then he broke into a wicked grin, "You know what else is delicious? That little blonde bitch I sold you. She sucked me so hard today...,"

Tess flashed deadly look that silenced her brother. Rising in a graceful motion that hid her trembling, she rang for the house boy. The young boy entered quietly through the pantry.

"Ben, my brother has had enough to eat and drink. Please clear the plates. Tosca, I suggest you pack and leave for the capital at once. Be gone by the time I get back," she growled as she strode from the room.

Tess was confident her anger was displaced. She had enough psychology units to know that emotions could be misdirected when one did not feel "allowed" to express them. So, her current state of agitation must be because of her brother's actions with the governor and not his raping Jordan. After all, Jordan was their slave to use as they saw fit. Tess would have taken liberties herself if Poe had not interrupted. Right?

"Displaced anger is the reason I'm running to check on her, isn't it?" Tess thought to herself. "Why else would I care?"

Tess entered the stable to find Cory and Jordan in the last stall. The two had been laughing but stopped the moment Tess's boots thudded to a halt in front of them. They rushed to hide the food in Jordan's lap but it was too late.

"Why are you eating in here?" Tess frowned in confusion, forgetting her original motive for coming.

"It's my fault, Master, please let Cory go," Jordan stood hanging her head. "I'm too willful to eat from the slob pails. I'm sorry."

"Slop pails?"

"I know that's where I'm suppose to eat but I couldn't bring myself to do it," there was resignation in her voice.

"Cory," Tess felt that nagging headache beginning behind her eyes, "can you explain this so even I can understand it?"

"Dinah said Jordan's ungrateful and can't eat in her kitchen 'cause of Jordan being a runaway," Cory was respectful but had no fear of Tess.

"Her kitchen, huh?" Tess took Jordan by the arm and guided her out of the stable.

The two made their way to the slop pails. Dumping the first one over, Tess poked the contents around thoroughly with her boots while keeping a gentle hold on Jordan.

"Anything edible there?" Tess raised an eyebrow but did not let Jordan move from her side. "Anything fit for my table?"

"No, nothing fit for you, Master."

Tess went to the second and third pails repeating the process. The foul smell of spoiling food made her gag. Her boots were caked in muck. When she asked, Jordan dutifully answered there was nothing fit for her Master's table.

Tess guided Jordan to the kitchen door leaving rotting food where it spilled. Pushing Jordan in first, Tess watched Dinah's face change from fury to fear. Tess sat with a plop and planted her boots on the table.

"Dinah, somebody knocked over the slop pails," Tess put her arm around Jordan's waist and rested her cheek on the trembling slave's hip. "Could you clean my boots for me?"

"Of course, Master," Dinah took the dishrag from her apron pocket.

"Not with the cloth," Tess lowered Jordan's pants just enough to expose the smooth curve of her hip. "It'll leave little balls of lint. Use your hands to get the crap off then you can buff them with your apron," Tess grinned.

Dinah kept her eyes down as she began the disgusting task. Tess moaned for the cook's benefit when she kissed Jordan's soft skin.

"Dinah, have you met my lovely new slave?" Tess continued before Dinah could answer. "She's so beautiful. I paid three times what she's worth. I might breed her. It will need to be a handsome stud to match her. By the way, how old is your Mickey."

Dinah's mouth dropped. Her hands fell to her sides unable to complete her work.

"Master, you meant to free him soon," she stuttered.

"I will. I keep my promises but in the mean time...,"

"He would never be able leave his children," Dinah interrupted.

"HIS CHILDREN?" Tess slammed her feet to the floor with a bang and rose slowly to tower over the red head. "His children? No, MY SLAVES! Just like it is my house, my boots, MY KITCHEN!"

Dinah fell at Tess's feet begging through her tears.

"You failed me by not feeding all my household. So, you shall finish cleaning my boots and my kitchen and then the slop pails before I have Poe take you to the fields."

"Oh, please, not that. Don't send my back to the fields. I worked so hard to get here," Dinah was sobbing.

Before she could reply, Tess felt a small tug on her sleeve. Jordan's face was awash in tears. Her lips quivered but no words emerged.

"Jordan, what is it?" Tess thought the girl would faint.

"Master, please, don't send her to the fields."

"She starved you," Tess was stunned.

"Because she respects you, Master. She believed I was unworthy of your house because I'm a runaway." Jordan's voice fell, "And she's right."

Tess took a deep breath. Her righteous rage had been doused. Both slaves thought her to be a vengeful master. One that punished harshly. One to be feared above all else. One, so much, like Togo Westerly.

"How brutal my household grows. To think I would approve of senseless suffering. My fault, all my fault," Tess thought staring at the pretty slave and then down to Jordan's chained feet. "Then what should her punishment be."

Jordan thought for several minutes.

"She should feed me."

Tess laughed. It was a true, deep, happy laugh. She had not laughed so since Yorkton. The simplicity of Jordan's solution lightened Tess's heart for one full beat.

"Feeding you it is. You may have anything from my kitchen even a suckling pig if you like," Tess could not suppress her toothy smile, "but she still must clean this mess up."

"Yes, of course, and your boots too," Dinah remained kneeling at her Master's feet.

"Would it be acceptable for me to help her clean up?" Jordan hesitated.

Tess nodded. Her grin just as wide. Jordan blushed under such scrutiny. And it happened again, Tess laughed a true, deep, happy laugh.

In the hours after she was left with Dinah, Jordan helped clean the boots, kitchen, and slop pails. Then she sat down to the best meal ever served. Dinah was so grateful for the mercy the young slave had shown her that the woman went far above the command to merely feed the one she had tried to starve. Salad, fresh fruit, warm bread, pork, beef, chicken, and whipped potato before desserts were spread out on the table until Jordan insisted she was truly at the point of bursting. The two woman chatted happily at the remains of Jordan's private buffet until Poe appeared to fetch her for a bath. The combination of the hot water and a full belly left Jordan feeling deliciously sleepy as she shrugged into a flimsy tunic Poe had left for her to wear. She shook her head slightly in an effort to clear the sluggish thoughts wandering through her brain when she started for her Master's bedroom, as directed.

Jordan's hesitant knock was greeted with a soft voice allowing entrance. The slave took a moment to let her eyes adjust to the relative darkness of a room illuminated only by a roaring fire in the hearth. Tess sat motionless across from the blaze with a glass of sweet syrup in her right hand. Jordan crossed the room as quickly as her chained ankles allowed to kneel at her Master's feet. She leaned forward to place a kiss on the bare feet before her as she had been taught but drew back with Tess's sharp intake of breath on contact.

Long moments passed as Jordan knelt silently; resting on her heels. The air in the room seemed heavy as if it were burdened by the brooding owner. Tess's brow knotted tightly over the bright blue eyes staring into the flames. A shaky hand reached for a stray lock of Jordan's freshly washed hair. Thumbing the silkiness appeared to ease the worried forehead.

"If I, as your Master, commanded you," came a quiet voice, "to my bed, to pleasure my body, and allow me to pleasure you, would you obey?"

"Of course, Master Tess," Jordan kept her voice even with her owner's.

"If," the voice was impossibly softer, "you were a free woman and I asked you to my bed that I might pleasure you and you do like wise for me then would you agree?"

"No," it was the truth.

Tess looked directly at Jordan for the first time that evening. Sadness hung across the beautiful features, stilling the slave's heart for a moment. Not from fear of retribution but out of compassion for the pain lingering in those eyes. Tess looked sorely disappointed at the response.

"Thank you for your honesty, Jordan. Go to L'tish. He's been instructed to remove your chains. There are warm clothes for you to change into. I'll see you tomorrow in the stable," Tess gave a small, hollow smile .

Jordan rose to leave. She made it half way to the door before stopping. Turning back, she saw her Master staring once more into the flames. She returned to her previous spot kneeling at Tess's feet.

"I gave you leave to go, now go," the voice was so tired.

"It's not fair," Jordan stood with her hands on hips. "It's not a fair question. Ask it again."

"What?" Tess struggled to control the grin threatening to break free at the impudent, little slave.

"Please, ask the question again."

"Okay," Tess did grin this time at the command in her slave's tone. "If I ordered you, as my slave, to bed me would you?"

"Yes."

"Right," Tess nodded, cocking an eyebrow. "So, if you were free and I invited you to my bed, would you join me?"

"No,..."

"Right," Tess sighed erasing all trace of the smile.

"... because I'm not free. I'm not able to think that way anymore. I don't really know for sure what I would do," Jordan finished, dropping to her knees, and lowering her gaze. "But I do know this. I am here, prostrate, before you when you commanded me to leave. I stay and remain cruelly chained when all I need to do is walk down the hill to be rid of this torturous steel. You wish to know whether I would freely come to your bed or not. This is as close as I can express my desire; my will. I am risking my Master's wrath and enduring personnel discomfort to wait at your heals like the good dog I have become."

The crackle of the fire was the only noise in the empty silence that follow. Jordan refused to even breath. Air would be a luxury when she lay dying for presuming to know her Master's mind. A gentle touch lifted her chin. Jordan saw a softening of Tess's tight features before she was given then sweetest kiss of her life.

It felt like flying. Jordan's head was spinning with the probing muscle invading her mouth while strong hands directed her to her feet. Embraced against Tess's well toned body, Jordan was weightless.

"Never a dog. You're a beauty, my dearest Jordan. Will you please come to my bed?" Tess whispered in a pink ear after breaking the passionate kiss.

"Yes, Master," Jordan wanted to wrap her legs around the sturdy frame that held her but the chains would not allow for that.

The pair fumbled and groped their way to the over large bed. Tess was forced to sit at the edge on their arrival with Jordan standing between her thighs. Jordan took Tess's hands in her own to maneuver them under her thin garment. Encouraging them with a gentle pat to explore the soft warm skin of her hips. Jordan took Tess's mouth with her own for a deeper exploration.

"Ow, this isn't gonna work," moaned Tess.

"Huh," A flushed Jordan was somewhat breathless.

"Go! Leave me," Tess fell back on the bed with her arms over her face.

"What is it?" Then thoughts placed during her training raced from Jordan's mouth without consent, "If this is a frequent problem then you should talk to a doctor. Really, millions of free people have sexual dysfunction. There are treatments available."

"Thank you, Surgeon Executrix," Tess sniped without looking up from the safety of her arms. "My problem is not medical. It's legal. I've been clipped. Sometimes, I can get around it and sometimes I can't. Tonight is a 'can't' night. Thanks anyway."

"You're on parole?" She accepted the head nod as and answer. "How long?"

"Life."

"That won't be a very pleasant life for you, will it?" Jordan left the bed to search the room. "Do you have gum?"

"Top desk draw," groaned the reclined Tess.

Without warning, the hard stick was forced into Tess's mouth. She chewed while Jordan proceeded into the bathroom and rummaged. Jordan returned to the bedside with a straight edge razor and a half glass of water. Tess continued to work the gum as the woman placed the items on the table beside the bed.

"Do you trust me?" Jordan asked before sealing a needy kiss on her Master's moist lips and stealing the well chewed gum away.

Tess did not answer as Jordan took a position between the long leathered clad legs. Jordan was skilled at removing clothing from a stilled body. Small but strong hands worked to unbutton leading to an eventual unfastening then to peeling and finally stripping the warm but uncooperative body.

"Knock yourself out but I'm useless," Tess grumped.

Jordan reached for the razor. She felt Tess stiffen and hummed a reassurance. Slicing her own palm with the sharp edge, Jordan licked the drops of blood before offering wound to Tess. The return suck was tentative until Tess felt the cool metal against the clip surrounding her clit. The drag on the open cut was vengeful when the blade pressed against the clip. And then freedom.

Jordan rose from her work with the clip that had smothered Tess's desire in hand. Before Jordan dropped the devise into the glass of water, she pressed the gum between the two sensor heads

"Oh, God," Tess gasped with the rush of sensation to the long denied region.

"Shhh, give it a minute. Just let your blood run its course," Jordan covered the shuddering body with her own trying vainly to hold back the surging energy.

Without another word, Jordan planted a kiss on Tess's panting lips. She robbed the other woman of any breath left in her lungs. Jordan tasted the overpowering need for relief in the blood welling from her freshly bitten lip. She moved down the strong body beneath her to the Master's center. The slave buried her lips and fingers in the warmth that now, freed from imprisonment, was welcoming intrusion. She prodded and sucked Tess into her first, real orgasm in more than two years. Jordan, lapping at the release, slowed her strokes like she had been taught as Tess rode the wave of an almost forgotten ecstasy.

Jordan felt her body pulled from the unfinished task at hand; up and over and down. She lay on her back staring into delighted blue eyes. Tess's passion had awoken from its enforced slumber. Her Master lavished kisses on tender skin. Sucking, biting, nipping, Tess was in a frenzy; chanting all the while.

"Jordan, oh God, thank you, anything for you, thank your, Jordan, God, anything!"

Jordan managed to stop Tess at the entrance to her own space.

"What?" Tess was almost wild eyed in her gratitude.

"You said, 'anything' a minute ago," Jordan could see a flicker of fear ghost across those beautiful eyes before the nod of agreement. "It has been a long time since I just slept in a real bed. Could I stay here a while and rest?"

The strong embrace relaxed and Jordan was sure she would be sent away. When a gentle kiss was placed in the patch of curly blond hair between her legs, Jordan gasped at the tenderness.

"You are so beautiful, my sweet Jordan," Tess rested her cheek there, over where the agreement was sealed, and wrapped her arms around the slender hips. "I told myself, I invited you here tonight to apologize for Tosca but as soon as you walked in," another nibbling kiss interrupted the confession. "I had to feel you against me. It has been so long since I held anything other than my pillow," a heavy but satisfied sigh followed. "I would be honored to have you sleep in my bed."

Jordan stroked the unrestrained black hair trailing across her belly. Long black eye lashes blinked closed against pale skin. Jordan hummed softly for the both of them as they drifted into a blissful slumber.

When Jordan woke in the dark with a low growl rumbling in her ear, she had to deliberately hold even muscle in check. Her body wanted to jump and run while her groggy brain wanted to piss and play dead in response to the unfamiliar surroundings. It was her reason that won out and she remained stock-still be shear force of will. Jordan was sure of only one thing; she was a slave and her Master had not permitted the luxury of screaming.

Gathering herself, once her automatic responses were made manual, Jordan took in her present physical state. No bumps or deep bruising could be detected while laying comfortably on her side. Her body was supported by the heavenly softness of a real mattress; box spring, coils, and fluffy stuff to be sure. She was very warm under the thin sheet that covered her; them. Well muscled arms wrapped around her waist to press her close to an even warmer body behind her.

"Oh, God," Jordan remembered with a barely audible sigh of relief that she remained in her Master's bed only to sleep.

Jordan decided she should leave the room before Tess awoke just like all her previous services with other Masters. Flexing her muscles, she thought she could just slip out from the firm but relaxed embrace. The growling was replaced instantly by steady breathing. Jordan pulled a mere inch forward.

"Don't leave," spoke Tess against a soft ear, "stay here with me, please."

Jordan settled back into the nest she awoke in without a word of protest. She was lulled back to sleep by the low growl of her Master's snoring.

Tess listened with half an ear while Poe detailed his trip. Her mind lingered on the slave that had so satisfied her the night before. She hated to send Jordan off before dawn but she did not want the entire household gossiping either.

"There is no surplus food on the black market to purchase regardless of the size of your wallet. You're not listening," Poe tersely said.

"What?"

"See?" Poe raised his eyebrows for emphasis, "I said, you're not listening. Look, we have too much at stake here for you to be wasting time mooning over a school girl fantasy with that little blond."

"You're the one who wanted her kept at the Manor," Tess shrugged back.

"Don't hurt her, Tessa," Poe stated calmly. "Mark my words, I will not stand idly by while you become your father's daughter."

"Yes, Poe, I understand." Tess hung her head in shame. "I'm sorry if I disappointed you but I didn't harm the girl. She had a chance to leave. She came back to my bed instead."

"Don't kid yourself that it was willingly. A slave has only her master's will. She knew what you wanted and fulfilled it."

"I know," Tess's voice was small and grief stricken. "Poe, is it so wrong for me to seek some little bit of peace for myself? Am I so evil that I deserve no solace from my struggle?"

Poe smiled at the woman before spreading his arms wide. She went to him and settled into the strong hug.

"My little Tessa, you are not evil. You have only been touched by it. Your mother was pure so, too, you must be," he kissed the dark head resting on his chest with a reverence reserved only for her. "But you barely knew her and so I must guard you against all temptation. For the sake of her memory as well as your own legacy, forgive me if I strive for caution in all things and at all times."

Tess lifted her head to gift Poe with a grin. He wiped her tears dry with his thumb and she kissed his palm in return. The tender moment was broken with the warning squeal of the monitor alert. A listening device had just entered the Manor.

The locked door was kicked open by a forceful boot kick. A tall uniformed man stormed in as if the study was his own. Behind him swaggered a very drunk Tosca.

"Inspector," Tess lounged casually at her desk while Poe stood tall with crossed arms several feet from her, "to what do I owe your breaking and entering into my home?"

"Don't get cute, bitch! You, slave, get lost!"

Poe looked to Tess who silently nodded her consent. The man walked slowly across the room until he was within striking distance of the Inspector. A balled fist landed squarely on Poe's chin and dropped him like a stone. Tess was on her feet before either man could escalate the exchange. She inserted herself between the pair.

"Inspector, I am well versed in every letter of my parole agreement," Tess stepped forward to press her body firmly against the bureaucrat. "I know that I am indebted to the governor for his kindness," she advanced her towering frame again forcing the Inspector to retreat or fall. "Additionally, my status as a convicted felon means I am without free persons protections and at the mercy of any and all agents of the governor, like you" another step and another retreat. "However, at the Manor, I am the Master. The slaves are mine to pleasure, punish, or terminate. Nobody, not even the governor, touches them. EVER!

At the shout, the Inspector stumbled back from the tight press but did not fall. Poe rose and strode from the room as if by some telepathic command between Master and slave at that crucial moment of the Inspector's weakening. It took only a few heartbeats for the Inspector to regain himself but the study door was already closed. Tess's humiliation would be her own and not be witnessed by any of her slaves. Not even the trusted Poe.

"We have business," the Inspector backhanded Tess sending her sprawling to the floor. "Why would you offer seventy five percent?" A hard kick to gasping ribs followed. "It makes no sense. There are profits to be had and you give them away?" Another solid kick resulted in whimpers of pain from the cowering form.

"Let me explain," Tess was fighting to get into the required kneeling position.

"Watch your tone, girl," another slap dumped her over on her back.

"Sorry, Sir," Tess tried to sound contrite as she scrambled into a kneel.

"Explain yourself," the Inspector spoke while removing his studded belt from the loops of his dress trousers.

"I have all my needs provided for by the Manor's income," Tess tried to steady her breathing, "just like the slaves. Just as prescribed in my father's will. All proceeds after the household account is fully funded go into Tosca's trust fund."

SNAP! The belt struck between her shoulder blades. Tess closed her eyes but did not cry out.

"So?" Another crack of the belt followed the question.

"More money in the account, more money per month in Tosca's hands." SNAP! The force stole Tess's breath. "More money, more likely he'll overdose or something."

SNAP! The studs ripped the white cotton shirt and pale skin beneath with a perverse equality. Tears of blood began to stream down the strong but vulnerable back.

"That would seem a better option," SNAP. "The little jerk off choking to death on his own vomit," SNAP.

"He's," Tess held her breath as the belt struck her burning back again. "he's my brother, I don't want him to die."

The Inspector stopped the interrogation for a momentary glance at Tosca. Tess took the lull to steal a look at the man in the shadows watching the grisly scene play out. Exactly the way it had unfolded when they were children. Tosca, in the darkened corner, learning how to deal with women and slaves from Togo's firm grip on a belt dangling dangerously over the trembling back of Tess or their mother or Poe or anybody he loved.

"What say you, Lord Tosca?" sneered the Inspector.

"She's," Tosca's breath hitched with the sound of Tess's soft cry of despair, "she's lying." SNAP! "There has to be another reason for this." SNAP! "She wouldn't waste time trying to save me. Would she?" SNAP!

Tess leaned against the rough wood at the stable door. She shivered under her heavy winter coat despite the fact that it was warm late summer afternoon. Willing herself the final few feet to Rufo's stall took all her strength. She collided with the gate when her legs finally buckled.

"Master..., Master Tess, are you all right?"

Tess cringed when Jordan's arm rested on her abused back but had to lean against the small slave or certainly fall to the ground. Unfortunately, she did both. Jordan was not strong enough to suddenly support the added weight of the tall woman.

"Please help me," Tess moaned after crashing on her face.

"Should I get Poe?"

"NO!" Tess panicked, "He can't see me like this. Just get me into Rufo's stall. I need to rest."

"Oh, God, Master, you're bleeding," Jordan's hands were stained with blood.

"Yeah, I know," Tess was trying in vain to get to her feet. "The stall, please, help me."

Tess's solo efforts ceased abruptly when Jordan grabbed an arm and hoisted the woman to her knees. Another drag threatened to pop her shoulder from its resting place but enable Tess to finally get her feet under her. Instead of going into Rufo's stall, Jordan dragged the stumbling Tess to the last stall in the stable.

"Here," Jordan eased Tess down on a bed of hay covered with a rough blanket, "I sleep here so it's a bit cleaner than Rufo's stall."

"Are you saying I don't muck his stall out very well?" Tess settled on her belly in a bed of sweet smelling hay.

"Let's just say, I'm a little neater than your horse," Rufo snorted his protest across the stable.

Jordan began to remove Tess's coat but met resistance.

"You asked for my help. So let me help," Jordan whispered.

Tess relaxed. She was too exhausted to fight anymore. Once her coat was off, tender fingers worked to rid the bloodied back of the remainder of her shirt.

"Lay still. I'll get some water to clean you up."

"It'll be fine. I just need to rest for a few minutes," Tess spoke but Jordan had already left. "Or you can do whatever you want," she managed to mumble as consciousness finally left her.

Tess roused to the soothing sound of Jordan's voice. Focusing on the words, Tess realized the slave was rambling on and on about life in the Northern Boundary. More specifically, the advent of spring with torrential rains and mud slides.

"Sounds lovely," Tess grumbled.

"It is, I mean, if you're not in the way of the mud," Jordan stopped her ministrations with a sudden realization. "Are you being sarcastic?"

"Sorry," Tess regretted hurt in the girl's tone, "I'm in a bad mood. Please continue. It makes it easier to lay still while you work."

Jordan tossed her rag in the pail of red tinged water. Without breaking the awkward silence, the sullen slave took the pail and left the stable. Tess watched the show of defiance in disbelief. Had she any strength left, she would have chased after Jordan. But, truth be told, she could hardly keep her eyes open never mind discipline a willful slave.

"This should keep you warm enough," Jordan's sudden return with a worn blanket woke the Tess from an unexpected nap. "If you need anything else, I'll be in the corner."

"Don't," Tess was able to snag Jordan's wrist and held her, "don't be mad at me. I'm in too much agony not to care."

Jordan knelt down next to her Master. When she smoothed the sweat soaked dark hair off the fevered face, Tess began to cry. The tears were conditional at first but grew in proportion Jordan's compassionate touches.

"It's okay, shh, try to rest, shh, I'll be here, shh, you're safe with me," Jordan eased Tess's head onto her lap as she hushed the sobs.

Tess's grip on Jordan's hand never lessened. Even as sleep invaded, she held on to the one thing that connected her to something other than pain.

"Jordan, my sweet Jordan," Tess murmured as she mercifully fell asleep.

Tess woke to the chirping of birds in the predawn and soft kisses at her temple. A smile spread across her face as she remember her mother's lips waking her so. But that was a long time ago. A life time ago, for her mother at the very least.

"Are you awake?" Jordan's voice harbored an edge of fear.

"What's wrong?" Tess asked, fully awake and preparing herself for the pain of rising.

"Voices, men's voices are near the silos."

"Poe is doing what I told him to do," Tess calmed all her muscles. "He is guiding the Inspector through our stores. All is at it should be."

"No, not all," Jordan stroked her Master's beaten back. "Wanna talk about it? It might make you feel better."

Tess blew air between her teeth as if the conversation hurt as much as her cut and bruised back. She flopped onto the soreness in order to gaze into innocent green eyes above her.

"Really, did it make you feel better?" The confusion in Jordan's expression pushed the matter forward. "I asked a question, did talking about your abuse make you feel better?"

"I've never talked about it."

"Then why don't you start now and I'll jump in when I feel shielded? You know, like a support group," Tess rolled her eyes but stayed with her head resting on Jordan's lap.

"As you command," Jordan's voice was flat and soft. "I was kept in a cage after the sale. It was 40 inches long by 27 inches wide by 30 inches high. I know that because the traders complained that I had it easy in such a large cage being that I was so short. The other slaves around me moaned about their tight confines but I had a little more room to move. Everybody there thought I was lucky but me. I grew up in a territory without fences. Being caged was a living Hell for me. But, I guess, the traders didn't think it was severe enough depravation to break me. They dragged me, naked, from my cage several days later to a barren room. I was hung like a ham for curing; wrists chained above and ankles below. A man, and I use the term loosely, called The Punisher told me he would beat me. There was no negotiation. No questions to answer. No price to compromise on. The Punisher would beat me until he thought I was broken."

Tess remained silent. The story unfolding was too compelling to risk an abrupt ending. She lay quietly waiting for Jordan to continue.

"I don't know how long I hung there or how many whip strikes I received. Or how many times he raped me. I do know that I was so dehydrated at the end a medic started an IV. Traders don't usually waste medical supplies on slaves unless they are sure death is likely. I also know I begged, promised and pleaded that I would be a good little dog all the remaining days of my worthless life if he would just stop the pain."

Tess lifted trembling fingers to wipe a tear from Jordan's eye. Unexpectedly, Jordan rested heavily on the fingers as if to gather her strength in their kindness.

"Now, it is your turn," Jordan breathed before kissing the fingers.

"I was convicted of a federal crime but managed to get parole with my father's influence. The agreement reached requires me to stay at the Manor as Master and submit to the governor or his agents. They are free to discipline me anyway they see fit. That is, short of killing me," Tess sighed. "Tonight was just more of the same. Some small time Inspector looking to get one up on a land owner. He got off and I got mine."

"Do you feel better after talking about it?" Jordan asked.

"Yes," Tess could not believe the word escaped.

"Funny, so do I," marveled Jordan.

Tess slipped away from Jordan as the first rays of dawn lit across the graying sky. She left the still dreaming slave with a soft kiss before trudging back to the Manor. Having made it the safety of her bedroom unseen, Tess opted to a hot bath over more sleep. She washed the sweat and blood and grime from her quickly in order to settle in for a good long soak. The water had grown tepid by the time Tess dragged herself out of the tub and into her oversized bathrobe.

"When did you get here?" Tess stopped short at the threshold between her bathroom and bedroom.

Poe stood silently in the rapidly fading shadows of the bedroom. His face was red with rage and his hands were tightly balled fists clenched by his sides.

"If this is about...," Tess's explanation was cut short.

"He told me!" Angry tears fell freely. "He said, he beat you but I thought he was just boasting about a slap or two. Tessa, your back!!! How could you let him, why would you, I ought to...,"

Tess did not let the distraught Poe ramble onward. She rushed to cross the room and pulled him hard against her. Holding the big man close, she allowed herself to enjoy the comfort of one of the few bodies at the Manor taller than herself. Tess was, however, grateful Poe kept his meaty hands rigidly at his thighs and safely away from her wounded back.

"Listen to me. It is part of the parole agreement. I have no choice. If I want to stay out of prison," she looked into his anguished eyes and smiled sadly, "if we are going to achieve our goals, then an occasional beating is a small price to pay."

"No, not a small price," Poe's tears slowed but his pain was evident. "Never a small price if you are harmed. My God, Tessa, why didn't you tell me they've been torturing you."

"Because it would make you crazy and there is nothing I can do to stop it. Please Poe, obey me, if only this one time. Let me deal with the governor and his Inspectors on my own," her smile broadened. "I brought all this hurt on myself. You have said as much yourself. Let me take my punishment and not earn more of the same for anybody else."

Poe rested his forehead on Tess's shoulder. She hugged the him closer and felt his heart hammering frantically against her chest.

"I will obey, Master," she tugged his ponytail for using the formal address. "At least, let me clean the wounds."

"All done," she hushed him with a finger to his lips when he pulled back to protest, "Jordan washed them out last night."

"Should have known you were hiding in the stable. It was your favorite spot after your father...," Poe shrugged as he trailed off. "Are we going ahead as planned tonight?

"Not that I don't trust you, my friend, but I am not putting you in a room with the Inspector for hours on end. Jordan will be my attendant at dinner. And after dinner. See that she is properly prepared."

Poe did a mocking bow to Tess with a regal flair. The two laughed heartily at the ridiculous gesture. Both knew, all Tess needed to do was ask for it and Poe would stop at nothing to retrieve the moon for her.

"Can you trust the girl?"

"It should be obvious to anybody looking that I have no reason to trust a little run away slave," Tess raised her eyebrows. "That's what makes her perfect for our plan."

"... so, the governor says, 'Tosca, your staff is twice as big as that little...,'"

"Tess, I must congratulate you on your fine taste," the Inspector interrupted Tosca's disturbing story. "The food, the syrup, the slaves...,"

The Inspector tugged the sash of his attendant pulling the man beside him. Wrapping his arm around the firm waist, the Inspector openly groped the slave's thinly covered penis. He smiled at the instant stiffening, certain the slave's face blushed hotly.

"Yes, these short tunics are perfect for pleasure slaves. Gives one easy access. More syrup, boy," the Inspector commanded harshly as he lay an open palm on the slave's bare bottom.

"The governor insisted on the design during his last stay," Tess spoke without lifting her gaze from her full plate of food. "It is the same attire pleasure slaves wear in the governor's palace."

Jordan stood, as the two other attendants did for the Inspector and Tosca, a half step behind her Master's chair in a thigh high silk tunic, covering her bare flesh, with a pitcher of syrup in hand. However, Tess had needed no refills over the course of the meal. Jordan watched as Tosca's attendant, a tall, auburn haired beauty, had to race for a second pitcher of syrup to meet his unquenchable thirst. The meal had been tense to begin with and Tosca's drunken stories had only increased the anxiety permeating the room.

"So, when does the harvest commence?" The Inspector continued to play idly with his slave's erection.

"It is currently in progress. We should be completed in ten days," Tess tugged on Jordan's sash as she spoke.

Jordan moved closer to Tess's side ready to pour but the syrup glass was still full. A strong arm snaked around Jordan's thighs and gently squeezed before resting with a warm palm on the soft, naked skin. Tess settled back in her chair apparently giving up on her meal.

"Where will you put it all? During my tour, I saw that storage was becoming an issue. The ice silos are filled as well as the dry silos. Talk about too much of a good thing," the inspector turned his full attention to Tess, ignoring his suffering slave for the moment.

"We have rented additional units. Don't worry, we won't lose stock to rot."

"What a shitty dinner party?" Tosca rose on unsteady legs. "I'm going to my room so I can enjoy myself, this slave, and a bit more syrup without mind numbing conversation about food stocks."

"Anymore syrup and you'll be swallowing your own tongue," the Inspector laughed.

Tosca lunged toward the Inspector with his pretty slave dragged behind him by her sash. The abrupt move jerked her off her feet causing her to drop the pitcher of syrup. Enraged, Tosca landed a solid punch to the woman's nose. She fell to the floor only to receive several sharp boot kicks.

"STOP!" Tess boomed but did not release or constrict her hold on Jordan. "Tosca, you are very tired. Go to bed. Let Mia clean up and then she will join you."

"With more syrup?" He sounded like a spoiled child.

"Yes, she'll bring you more syrup," Tess's voice was almost hypnotic. "Now go to your room."

Tosca stumbled out the door and echoed down the hallway with his wishes for a goodnight to all with ears. His slave was struggling to steady herself and clean up the mess.

"Jordan," Tess whispered and the blond lowered her head to hear, "help Mia clean up. Then take her to the kitchen for Poe to treat her wounds. Wait with her and then go directly to my bedroom by the back stairwell."

The slave nodded before joining Mia. They cleaned in relative quiet as Tess and the Inspector resumed their meals. The two slaves left the dining room as quickly as they could manage.

Jordan handed her charge over to Poe who was waiting for them in the kitchen. Jordan shrunk into the background to let Poe do his job. After a bit of ice, a swipe of cleansing fluid, and a stitch or two, Poe decided Mia was well enough to return to the dorms.

"That leaves you to get to your Master's bed," Poe spoke as he washed his hands.

"Ah, Master Tess told Lord Tosca that Mia would go to his room with more syrup," Jordan was unsure about the change in directions.

Poe nodded to Mia who immediately left the kitchen. He noticed how Jordan flinched when he turned to speak directly to her. Raising his hands as if in surrender, he hoped she would see he meant her no harm.

"Go directly to your Master's bed, now." Poe's tone left no room for discussion and Jordan hurried up the back stairs.

Tess's room was warmed by a wonderful crackling fire. The lights were lowered to allow the fire to illuminate most of the space in a dancing yellow glow. The bed had been turned down and all but invited Jordan to rest there. She, however, knelt at the foot of the bed to await her Master. Closing her eyes, Jordan let the warmth of the room ease her weary body and worn soul. The leisurely vibration from the monitor alert lulled her even more.

"Jordan," Tess's low voice startled the slave awake, "you should have gone to bed. Can you even feel your feet anymore?"

"I'm sorry, Master, I must have drifted off," Jordan got up in the most ungainly fashion.

Tess's hand steadied Jordan helping her get her balance. Lowering her head with a smile, she placed an innocent kiss on the slave's trembling lips.

"Are you cold?"

"No, Master, I'm afraid."

"Of me?"

Tess winced when Jordan nodded yes. She would have liked to tell the slave there was nothing to fear but that would be a lie. Tess did not want to lie tonight. At least, not to Jordan, anyway.

"If I, as your Master, commanded you to give your life for me, would you?" Tess kissed Jordan softly on the lips once again before the slave nodded yes. "If you were free and I asked you to risk your very life for everybody living at the Manor, would you?"

"Yes," Jordan breathed before she returned Tess's light kiss with a needy one of her own.

Tess took Jordan by the hand and led her to the bed. A slip of the sash knot and tug at the silk left Jordan naked as Tess lowered her to the bed. The most supple of kisses worked their way down the slender neck to the slave's hardening nipples.

"Roll over," Tess's command sounded very much like a request.

Jordan turned onto her belly. She felt Tess's still clothed body beside her. The long frame barely touching Jordan's skin but was still close enough to raise goose bumps. Slender fingers smoothed their way across the ugly scars marring the slave's creamy white back. Jordan choked back a humiliated sob at being so exposed before her owner.

"So very beautiful," Tess whispered before anointing every inch of the scars with sweet kisses.

Jordan did sob then. She let down her defenses to allow the tender act to console her. It was an absolution of sorts. A blessing meant to free her from her shame.

"You are too beautiful for this world, Jordan. You are too beautiful to do what I must command you to do," Tess continued to revere the permanent reminders of Jordan's suffering.

"I'm afraid," Jordan's voice broke.

"And you should be but will you trust me?" Tess saw the weeping slave nod. "Thank you, Jordan. The entire Manor will thank you for this sacrifice one day."

Tess awoke, as she knew she would; alone, fully dressed, with the fire alarms echoing throughout the Manor. She sauntered into the hall in time to see the guest room door burst open. A naked man raced blindly into her.

"FIRE?!" The Inspector screamed as she shoved him back a step.

"It would seem so," she allowed a childish smirk at his shriveled manhood. "The alarms are from the lower farm and not the Manor. I think you might have a moment to don your trousers. Don't want my slaves swooning over you now, do we?."

The Inspector covered his lacking pride with his hands before stumbling back into his room. Tess followed him and freed the whipped slave the Inspector had tied to his bed post. Stewie groaned his relief when the last restraint was cut.

"Master, Master," Cory raced past the room and needed to double back when she called out. "It's the silos. Poe said to come right away and bring Lord Tosca."

"Inspector, if you would join me." Tess turned to leave but stopped to speak quietly to Cory, "Help Stewie and then find me at the silos. Poe may need your help."

The Inspector followed Tess as she went to Tosca's room. She dragged the drunken Lord from his bed and slapped him awake. Righting his sleep wrinkled clothes, Tess steered him to the door as the three left the room empty. They made it to the front lawn easily as the Manor was nearly abandoned. All the slaves had rushed off to fight the fire.

"Master Tess," Dinah panted as she hurried up to the trio, "we lost two ice silos and two dry."

An explosion shook the ground beneath them violently. Dinah almost fell over but Tess caught her. Tosca landed flat on his face, in the mud. At least, he hoped it was mud.

"It would seem we've lost another silo," Tess grimaced as she pulled Dinah to her feet and pressed forward.

"Why are they coming back this way?" The Inspector shouted at the sea of slaves coming toward the Manor. "Why aren't they fighting the fire?"

"Because it is a lost cause," Tess sighed. "The fire can't breech the wall surrounding the base of the upper Manor. They will be safe here until it burns itself out. Only God can help us after that!"

Tess stood strong as grim faced slave after grim faced slave passed her. She sent Dinah back to prepare food. They may have lost the battle with the flames but their bodies would need a reward for their efforts. No matter the outcome, Tess would comfort her slaves for their devotion to the Manor; to her.

Ben came running behind the last of the stragglers. His dark features smeared with soot and ash. He was breathless when he dropped at her feet.

"Master Tess, all is lost!" His anguish was almost palpable "Poe, Poe caught, he thinks, he has...,"

"Move it, Bitch!" Poe's voice boomed over the inferno behind him. "Don't make me hurt you so bad you'll pray for death, yet!"

Poe kicked the figure he had tethered by the neck. Hands bound behind the back, could not block the forceful connection with the ground. Poe yanked the pale figure to its knees and dragged the wretch the final few yards to Tess's feet.

"Master Tess," Poe, stained by his battle with the flames, bowed at the waist, "this worthless slave destroyed your stores!"

"Jordan?" Tess lamented when she saw the face cringing at her feet. "Why? Why would you do this to me?"

Jordan took a moment to steady herself. Giving a firm, if not futile, tug at the leash holding her. She glared up at Tess.

"My Master commanded me to burn the silos."

"WHAT?" The stunned Inspector roared as he eyed Tess.

"Master Tosca, please tell him!" Jordan implored as she tried to crawl on her knees toward the rapidly sobering drunk. "Tell him that you instructed me to burn the silos."

Tess whirled on the open mouthed Tosca. She wrapped two strong hands around his skinny neck.

"You Bastard!" She allowed her venom to surface. "You would let innocents starve so you could get what you wanted?"

"She's lying! Stop saying that!" Tosca screamed before Tess slapped him to the ground. "Why would I want to burn the harvest? My income is dependent on its sale."

"Tell us, slave," the Inspector commanded.

"He said, she would be removed as Master by the governor. He could inherit the Manor then because of the ...,"

"PAROLE AGREEMENT!" Tess punched Tosca hard on the jaw before explaining to the Inspector. "Only the governor, Tosca, and myself knew about the failure to produce clause. If the harvest fell unreasonably short then the governor could replace me and I would be sent back to prison. Thanks bro!" She kicked him hard in the ribs.

"I'll be leaving at once to inform the governor of these events. Lord Tosca is not formally charged, yet, and is not my concern. If you would like me to dispose of this piece of slave trash then I would be more than happy to comply." The Inspector frowned at the state of the Manor, "Tess, I will do my best with the governor to be fair. I have seen with my own eyes how much you would have delivered to him if not for Tosca."

Tess closed her eyes. The ash heavy wind brushed her long hair back but left dark trails of their path across her cheeks. She appeared almost feral when she finally looked him.

"I'll thank you in advance for your efforts with the governor on my behalf. Tosca has a few hours to make his plans but that will not be done under my roof. As for the slave," Tess grabbed the leash from Poe and fiercely yanked the woman prone, "I will make her suffer in a thousand different ways."

Tess strode back to the Manor dragging the bound woman behind her.

"I wouldn't be in that slave's skin for all the money in the world," the Inspector shuddered.

"Of course you wouldn't," Poe coughed, "because she's not going to have skin for much longer."

Tess kicked Jordan into her bedroom. The door slammed shut just as Jordan's face slammed into the floor. Jordan swallowed trying to quell the wave of nausea threatening to upend her stomach. The soft whirling of the monitor alert let her know nobody would hear her other than Tess.

"Help," she crocked.

Tess was instantly at her side releasing the chains. A cursory check found no wounds greater than bumps and bruises. Gathering the slave in her arms, Tess finally let out the breath she felt she had been holding since awakening.

"Are you okay?" Tess whispered in Jordan's ear.

"A little singed but otherwise unhurt," Jordan made no attempt to loosen her death grip around Tess's neck. "I know Poe's on our side but he was pretty scary."

"Thank you, Jordan," Tess buried her face in the crook of Jordan's neck.

"I won't say 'anytime' but I am glad I could help. By the way, how does this help? Me setting the food on fire will make for even less food next year, right?"

"Why did you do it if you didn't understand what was happening?" Tess chuckled as she looked into Jordan's smoke stung eyes.

"You told me to start a fire and I did. I told you, I'm a good dog."

"Never," Tess stole a kiss from the delicious lips before her. "Never a dog, my sweet Jordan. The silo's were empty. Our stocks are hidden in rental units buried under the empty rental units."

Tess hushed anymore questions with a blistering series of kisses. She rolled Jordan onto her back and managed to remove both their clothes in record time without breaking lip contact. Laying herself on the smaller body, Tess was careful to balance her weight on her forearms. Jordan would have none of that. She pulled Tess down on her so their breasts crushed against each other. Their nipples pebbled rock hard and dug fiercely into softer surrounding tissue.

"Oh my God," Tess wept as her need swelled.

Jordan slipped her thigh between Tess's legs. The slave smiled when she felt the silky arousal there.

"Come for me, Master," Jordan begged.

"Oh my God!" Tess knew she was more than close when the muscular thigh caressed her desire but the slave's plea only served to drive her even more rapidly to her climax.

"Come for me."

Tess screamed her hasty release. She collapsed onto the smaller body. It took several minutes of panting to get her breath. Jordan's giggling was the first things she noticed.

"What?"

"You know, from this angle, you look alot like your brother," Jordan allowed herself a good laugh.

"Thanks," Tess grumbled without opening her eyes. "You think that I could get a some sympathy over here. I would have liked to hold out a littler longer but I'm out of practice."

"Don't worry," Jordan stroked Tess's back lovingly. "You're not done tonight. I'll see to that."

Tess smiled happily as she gathered her strength and fell off to the woman's side. She let her hand wander to Jordan's breast to fondle the nipple back to hardness. Kisses began in earnest under Jordan's ear and blazed a path to those generous lips. Tess's wayward hand broke free to claim the slave's sex.

"What?" Tess drew back as if burned. "Dry?"

Jordan froze in horror. Unable to find the words to explain, she just stared, wide eyed at her Master.

"I mean, I might not be all that but...," Tess was bewilder how any woman with a heartbeat would not have found their little romp, at least, amusing. "What's wrong?"

Tess suddenly realized that Jordan had never let her into her sex before. Sitting up, Tess dragged her legs up to her chest. She considered the woman laying beside her. A slight trembling of the slave's lips marked the only visible motion. Short breathes were so shallow her chest hardly moved. A light sheen of sweat glistened across the small frame. Tess saw for the very first time the depth of Jordan's fear. A terror so beaten into her that it robbed of her speech.

"Listen, we both smell like a small inferno," Tess gave a lazy smile. "Let me run a bath."

Tess left the silent slave on the floor. She hustled around the bathroom to prepare a soothing bubble bath. When she returned she found Jordan had not moved an inch.

"Come with me," Tess extended her hand and held back a gasp when Jordan flinched.

Jordan somehow managed to respond to the command and got to her feet. She followed Tess with her head down. Tess lent an arm to steady the slave into the steamy water. Joining her in the oversized tub, Tess was glad she could settle on her side and not intrude on Jordan's space, yet.

"Please, talk to me," Tess spoke quietly when they had finished washing themselves.

"I, ah, I'm so very sorry, Master," tears fell silently.

"For what?"

"For not pleasing you," Jordan sobbed openly but did not look at Tess. "Please, forgive me. Let me serve you in the stable, please. I promise, I'll be good."

"No," Tess breathed in a sigh.

Jordan stifled her cries. A well practiced mask closed her emotions off from view. Her body visibly stiffened as she prepared herself for Tess's whim.

"You will not go to my stable or anywhere else on this Manor," Tess opened her arms wide. "Jordan, you please me very much. I wish I pleased you half that much. Maybe, in time, that will come. Say you want to stay here with me," Tess had to brush a tear away. "I won't even ask you to touch me again. Shit," she wiped tears away with a soapy hand making them sting worse. "It would be nice if I could just hold you as I fell asleep at night."

Jordan's mouth dropped as she watched her Master plead for her to stay. Realizing, in spite of her fear, a life line was cast in her direction, Jordan scramble to leap into Tess's embrace.

"Say it," Jordan cried as she nearly drowned Tess in a tidal wave of a hug. "Say you'll keep me, Master!"

"Only if you say that you'll keep me," Tess grinned back.

"Yes, Master, I'll keep you forever!" Jordan held onto her salvation in a grip that spoke more of desperation than love.

"Everything in its own time," Tess thought to herself.

Jordan woke in total darkness. The soft growl of her Master's snoring ringing in her ear immediately relaxed her. She felt the firm embrace of Tess at her back and snuggled up against her. The snoring stopped.

"You okay?" Tess's sleepy voice husked.

"It's not your fault," Jordan's hands took hold of the larger hand around her waist. "I just can't ..., I'm mean, you own me ..., like the others did, and when... you touch me, I just freeze ... waiting for the punishment to start again...,"

Tears streamed down the slave's face as she lost her composure. Sobs shook the small body as memories reserved for nightmares took control of her. Lost in her fear, Jordan managed to hold tight to the arm around her. The strong hand in her hand did not jerk away as the emotional words broke the stillness of her Master's bedroom.

"You've been nice to me, mostly. Not like the others," Jordan sighed. "Most of them hit me until I laid still and quiet. Some, though, really wanted me to suffer."

Tess's hand gave a gentle squeeze to the dainty hand in her grasp. Jordan smiled in the dark, slightly encouraged. She managed a squeeze of her own back.

"I learned how to be somebody else for their needs. Go through the motions to fool them into thinking what they wanted to believe. Ooohing, aaahing, faking them into a pleasant fuck or crying and begging for mercy as they beat me all the way to their orgasm. It didn't matter because the part of me that would have felt the humiliation was safely hidden deep inside." Jordan actually giggled a little between her tears, "I think they called it acting before the revolution."

Tess did not laugh. Her hold on the fragile package in her arms never flexed in spite of her growing anger. An anger at her past, present, and future role in this slave's life. She wished she could promise the pain was over but she did not want to lie to her slave.

"Jordan," Tess breathed.

"No, not yet, wait for me to finish, please," Jordan felt strangely bold as her story was finally allowed to break free. "I thought I was in for more of the same with you. You know, because of your brother and when you hit me the first time we met. But, the night I told you my own will was 'no' you were ready to let me leave without doing anything! You looked as sad as I felt. My heart broke for you, a little."

"Are you telling me I was a mercy lay?" Tess sounded serious but Jordan felt the chuckle bubbling from deep in the chest behind her.

"Yes, you were," she nodded satisfied this was, in fact. new information for Tess. "Like I said, I think they called it acting."

"Was there anything we did together you enjoyed?" Tess asked the question Jordan had never been asked before.

A long moment of silence passed. Jordan's breathing picked up a bit. Yet, Tess waited for the answer with no additional questions or movement.

"I, ah, I really, ah, liked the way you, you know, kissed me, my back," Jordan's cheeks burned red hot as sweet kisses began to trace across her scars once more. "Yeah, like that, I really like that."

Tess blazed a path of kisses across the pale, if not perfect, expanse of back. When the slave's breathing began to come in short pants, Tess intensified her assault on the tortured flesh by nibbling. She was rewarded with her captured hand descending between the creamy thighs spooned to her own.

"Are you sure?" Tess's voice was barely a whisper.

"Please," Jordan murmured before guiding the trapped fingers into her now wet and delighted dark hollow.

"For you, dear Jordan, this is for only you," Tess cooed as she impaled the small body on her long digits.

The slave's muffled screams were ignored by many of the house out of fear for her horrid fate at the Master's hands. However, Poe spent the evening trying to ease Cory's tears for his friend from the stable with work. The two inventoried the medical supplies in the kitchen after the last fire victim was treated. Cory did as commanded but could not shut out Jordan's cries in the night despite of her obvious sedition.

"It would be better for the Master to just kill her outright than make her suffer like that," Cory announced through his tears.

"Don't presume to know your Master's mind, boy," Poe scolded. "Or Jordan's mind for that matter," an unobserved snicker followed.

"My," kiss, "sweet," kiss, "Jordan," kiss, "wake," kiss, "up," Tess kissed the smaller woman from chin to forehead, lingering at the luscious lips, and back again.

"Good morning," Jordan groaned, truly stiff after the escapades of the night before.

"Hungry?"

"For many things, Master," Jordan smiled into charming blue eyes.

"Here, in my chamber, my favored call me Tessa. I beg you to do the same," Tess stole the reply from the tasty mouth before it was spoken. "I brought breakfast. Sit up and have your meal in bed."

A fully dressed Tess bounded off the bed. Jordan pushed her sore body up and leaned against the headboard. Her Master retrieved a huge tray of food and returned as if she were the servant.

"Scoot down," a soft command. "Hold this," the tray settled over Jordan's lap. "Slide back," Tess continued after she slipped behind Jordan, straddling her backside to pillow the slave's body against her own.

There was more food on the tray than Jordan had seen in her first month of captivity. Pork and beef and eggs, two kinds, and breads, three kinds, and cereal and fruit, assorted, and juice and milk; enticing edibles were littered before her in homage to a healthy appetite. Jordan could not help but hum as she tasted the crispy bacon.

"Good?" Tess asked as she suckled Jordan's succulent neck.

"Oh, Master, so very, very good," Jordan fed a piece of sausage to the nibbling mouth at her neck.

"Tessa, call me Tessa," she spoke around a mouthful of hot food.

"Thank you, Tessa," Jordan moaned as if food alone could produce bliss.

The two spent their time together but in separate worlds. Tess enjoyed the salty, sweat soaked body of her slave. Knowing she had brought the little woman to orgasm over and over during the night was more than satisfying. Tasting the remains of their love on the pale skin was an added bonus. For Jordan, the day was much more basic. The previous evening her body found pleasure. When morning broke she was provided with nourishment while her body was caressed by a beautiful mouth. Any slave with half a wit would know this was a dream; a wonderful dream.

"Master, you're dressed so early...,"

"Please call me Tessa," it did sound like pleading at this point. "And, yes I'm dressed early. I need to be seen around the Manor to reassure the slaves all is well.."

Jordan swallowed hard as she thought of life beyond the bedroom door for the first time. How they must hate her?

"What will you do with me now?" Jordan lost her appetite and hung her head.

"Hey," Tess's head snapped up with the trembling in Jordan's small body.

"I realize you can't keep me here with the whole Manor believing I destroyed the harvest," Jordan had been lied to by all her previous Masters, why should Tess be any different. "Master, I humbly ask that you sell me as a service slave and not a pleasure slave. It is the only indulgence I request."

"I promised you last night that I would keep you forever," Tess snuggled the smaller woman into a hug. "And I keep my promises, always." "What about...," Jordan was unable to finish her sentence because Tess turned her head for a kiss.

"You will stay here in my suite until this blows over. And it will blow over, Jordan. Now look there, behind the tapestry is a door," Tess pointed across the room before stealing a piece of bacon. "The door leads to the library and nursery. You can have some privacy during the day while I'm out. The door bolt can only be released from the inside. You could even read if you wish. Or rest, the nursery has a full size bed. My mother use to sleep in there."

Jordan looked back surprised by the news. Tess shrugged before stealing more food from the tray.

"My mother was a slave. It would not due for the daughter of the Master of Westerly to sleep in a room smaller than her slave's. So, Father switched the sleeping arrangements and put the crib in here. I guess, technically, this would be the nursery," Tess frowned slightly at the thought.

"You owned your own mother," Jordan whispered with a shudder. "What happened to her?"

Tess stopped chewing. She kept her head down while blinking back tears. It would not be right for Jordan to see her cry. While it might be one thing to be kind, it was entirely different to be sentimental.

"I, ah, I killed her," Tess closed her eyes and the tears flowed. "My fault."

"Do you want to talk about it?" Jordan put the food tray on the floor before shifting over in the bed and patting her naked thigh with her back firmly braced against the head board.

Tess sank down to the soft skin. Cuddling the warm legs, soothed her more than she could have imagined. So much for not being seen as sentimental.

"I was seven. Father was having powerful people over for a meal. In fact, it was the current governor's father and mother. He was the Federal Army Chief General. Tosca and I were the very model of obedient children during dinner. Over dessert and syrup, Father and the General began to discuss my mother, Agalia. She had been Poe's wife before Father saw her in the fields and claimed her as his breeder."

Jordan shook her head sadly. Poor Poe! His wife taken to produce offspring for his Master and there was not a thing he could do about it. Jordan stroked back Tess's long black hair to expose the tear stained cheeks.

"After two children, Father grew tired of her. He left her pretty much to be my full time nanny. He had his son and a back up heir. That evening, Father talked about how big and independent I was. I would not need a nanny much longer. He did not want me to be weak. He did not want me to be like a woman; like Agalia, his slave," Tess took a deep breath. "The General offered to buy her. Father looked right at me and saw my terror. I just know he did," Tess cursed her stupidity for the millionth time. "He must have seen it as a weakness because he agreed to sell her if they could reach a fair price."

Jordan continued to gently stroke her grieving Master's hair. Steady and even touches were meant to calm a body. It was a technique pleasure slaves used with the most aggressive Masters to prevent accidental bruising. The effect was equally good for troubled souls like Tess.

"Did they reach a fair price?" Jordan asked quietly.

"I didn't wait to find out. I ran right from the table to the nursery. Mother was mending clothes when I found her. I told her of my Father's plans and begged her to hide. She told me we had no choice but to obey. Father followed soon after, banging on the door I bolted and bellowing for me to come out. She took me by the hand to face him."

"I take it he was furious," Jordan had heard enough about Master Togo to anticipate his reaction to his daughter's defiance.

Tess sat up. She unbuttoned her blouse to display a nasty three inch scar just left of her navel. Jordan could not keep her fingers from touching the old wound. Tess quivered at the contact.

"My Father beat me with his belt. The buckle tore a hole across my belly. Poe managed to stitch it up, secretly, a day later. Father had refused to get a doctor because I brought it on myself. But," Tess slouched, "it must have been as I was passing out because I don't remember it clearly, my Mother had been pleading for mercy whole time finally threw herself on top of me. She cradled me as Father went into a frenzy. I could feel the blows she bore with every shudder of her body. Somehow, we ended up in the Courtyard. Poe holding me in his arms, Mother tied to the whipping post, and Father with his whip in hand. She didn't last long."

The silence was heavy around them.

"It wasn't your fault, you know," Jordan concluded. "Agalia was a slave for longer than you were alive at the time. She knew the risk of protecting you and she still threw herself over you to save you. She sacrificed everything for you. What a wonderful mother, Tessa! What a wonderful gift! Her blood is in you."

Tess turned to look at Jordan. She saw no deceit in the woman's eyes.

"I loved her, Jordan," Tess fell into the slave's embrace crying for the first time over her loss.

"I'm hoping the Master gives me a chance at the little whore!!! I'll cut her into filets, ground meat and chuck roast and then stew her bones for the dogs!!!" Dinah howled above the laughter of the slaves gathered for evening meal.

"I think they should let me have a go at her," piped in Fel. "I need an able bodied slave to pump out the septic systems now that Ernie is sick again."

"Who said she was still able bodied?" questioned another voice from the table resulting in gales of laughter.

Mia went to speak but Stewie stopped the comment with a light touch to her arm. She turned to look at him and he shook his head no. Both remained silent at the rowdy table.

"Too cruel," winced Vic, the door man. "I would only have her clean the filth from the boots of our guests," he sighed for effect while missing the paling of Dinah's cheeks, "with her tongue!"

Most roared their approval, around mouths filled with food, at the task described by the slave.

"You are too kind," Mickey's grin was ended with his mother batting him in the back of the head.

"Stop it, boy! You've never been punished. You've no idea of the pain it brings," Dinah shoved down her growing alarm at her son's indifference to a suffering she almost endured only to be spared by the slave they were now mocking.

"Mom, you wanted to cook the little run away," Mickey tossed back a confused look. "Why blame me for joining in fun?"

"There should be no fun in this, boy."

Before Dinah could elaborate the back door opened admitting a man and a chilled gust of northern winds. All the slaves moaned at the sudden burst of cold. L'tish pushed the door roughly closed against the gathering howl of wind. He signed his apology and everyone in the room greeted him with their distinctive 'hello's.'

"We were just discussing the best punishment for the runaway," Fel happily updated the black smith.

L'tish snapped his fingers rapidly to get the attention of the lone figure sitting on the bottom step of the back stairs. "Speak for me," he signed between snaps but the boy did not lift his head. L'tish strode across the room to tap the boy on the shoulder. When soft brown eyes met his own, he signed again, "Speak for me, my little friend, please."

"L'tish wishes for me to speak for him," Cory spoke with a dry, cracked voice. "He says, the Master is growing more bitter daily," the group sucked in air at the accusation. "Look at what she commanded I make for ...L'tish, I can't say that slave's name. We agreed as a group. She is not a human anymore," Cory turned to him with pleading eyes.

L'tish sighed sadly at the boy's words and shrugged. He signed back, "As long as they know who I was commanded to make these for," the boy translated and all nodded.

The black smith emptied the contents of his sack in the middle of the kitchen table. A collective gasp rose instantly only to be followed by an eerie silence. Several chairs pushed back to provide distance between the offending pieces of metal and their own fragile skin.

"May God help us all if the Master plans to punish that poor girl like this," Dinah whispered.

"Better God help that slave," Poe had entered the kitchen unobserved and stood behind Dinah.

"My God," Fel choked in surprise, "you move like a panther! Couldn't you clear your throat or something when you come into a room."

"Just be glad it's me and not your Master!" Poe warned. "L'tish put those back in the sack and bring them to the Master's study. She is waiting for them."

"Poe," Dinah found courage to ask, "have you seen the girl today? Did the Master hurt her too much?"

The imposing Poe smirked. Walking to the table, he snatched a piece of chicken from Mickey's plate.

"You heard the same as I did last night and the night before that and the night before. In fact, it has been the same screams in the night for over a week. What do you think is left of the little slave?" He smiled but it was without humor.

"Perhaps, the Master would let me bring her something to eat," Dinah was feeling a bit guilty remembering Jordan's previous kindness to her.

"You don't feed the dead when we'll be starving in a few short weeks!" Vic bellowed. "Especially, when she's the cause of it."

"No, it was Tosca's fault," Ben interjected. "The girl thinks he still owns her. She's kind of stupid, I guess."

Poe laughed. It was a genuine and true sound. He patted the boy's head affectionately.

"She was tricked, Ben, and that is a bit different. Isn't it funny? A child understands what happened but none of you want see it. I just pray the Master calms down so she can see Tosca's hand in this before she kills the girl."

"Why would you care?" Cory shook his head in confusion.

"Because," Poe knelt in front of Cory as if to speak only to him but his message was for all in the room, "the girl is no threat to us. She was a pawn. Just as we all are pawns of our Master's will. Tosca is the dangerous one. He will not stop until he is the Master of the Manor even if he has to kill us to do so."

"Poe, I like Jordan," Cory risked the wrath of his fellow slaves to speak her name. "Can't you do something?" The boy hid his teary cheeks against Poe's strong chest.

"No, boy, it is all in the Master's hands now."

Tess entered the warmth of her bedroom with a soft click of the door latch behind her. She knew Jordan would be in the library reading as she had spent every day of the previous week. It had been a special time for Tess. Tending to the Manor's needs during the day then returning at night to her rooms and Jordan, Tess started to believe the building might yet become a home for her. They shared their meals together. Jordan would quote the first line of a book from the library trying to stump Tess but she knew them all by heart. After the meal, they would retire to Tess's bed. Some nights they would just sleep and other nights they would be wild in their abandon. Tess was enjoying this arrangement too much, she thought, under the weight of the sack she had slung over her shoulder.

"Master, I didn't hear you come in," a surprised Jordan emerged from behind the tapestry. "Are you ill? You look very pale."

"Sit, please, and listen," Tess choked out and watched her slave sit in the nearest chair. "Jordan, I have so very much enjoyed our time together but..."

Jordan's shoulders drooped. The last week had been pure heaven. Her Master's absence during the day gave her time to read and think. In the evenings, they would discuss the books Jordan read. Tess's mind was sharp and she would open up aspects of the plots Jordan had not considered during her first reading of the material. When the hour grew late the pair would silently make their way to the bed. Cuddled under the blankets, nature would take it's course. If the day was long then both fell quickly into a happy sleep. If their appetites were still wet they would pleasure each other until the dawn threatened. Jordan found she enjoyed Tess's body more than any other she had encountered. Yet, now, it seemed Tess was ready to be done with her.

"...there are so many lives depending on us," Tess saw the tears in Jordan's eyes. "We must be brave."

"Of course, Master," Jordan could not lift her gaze.

"Poe has been working to turn sentiments in your favor. He presented you as the dupe for Tosca. Most of my slaves were more than happy to accept him as the villain. Yet, a small number of slaves still would do you harm if they got their hands on you," Tess cleared her throat and Jordan looked expectantly into steely blue eyes. "They need to see you punished."

Jordan's mouth dropped. Fear knotted her stomach and threatened to empty lunch on the floor. Suffering would be the reward for her obedience.

"Mercy, please, Master!!! Must you whip me?" She choked on the words.

"No, never," Tess hurried to kneel before the girl. "I would never spill your blood! Not for anything! Including the Manor!"

Tess wiped the tears dry from Jordan's clammy cheeks. She tried to quiet the frightened pants of her slave girl but Jordan was beyond listening.

"Please, I'll do anything! Just don't beat me, please! Forgive, please, whatever I did, please forgive me, please," Jordan wailed into the soft cotton of Tess's blouse.

Tess held Jordan close trying to slow the tears. In her heart, Tess knew the Manor was not worth one moment of this girl's terror. Yet, there were others who would disagree. Slaves and task masters, village elders and villagers; all dependent the Manor for their very next meal. They would easily sacrifice the girl for a loaf of bread. Tess tried to gather herself with that fact to forge ahead.

"Come on, now. Be brave," she ruffled Jordan's hair. "The punishment is not a beating. I have not had a beating on these grounds in two years. This will be more emotionally brutal than physically harmful. You have my word."

Jordan's tears eased slightly and she nodded her acceptance of her fate. As if she truly had a choice in the matter. Tess swallowed hard as she lifted the sack from her shoulders. Gingerly, she removed the contents and lined them on the floor at Jordan's feet.

Leather cuffs for the wrists and ankles and neck linked together with a shiny steel chain. Jordan watched carefully as the restraints were laid a her feet and the sack discarded. Tess did not raise her eyes during the task.

"Master, you mean only to chain me?"

"Chaining has not been done on this estate since my father's death. Only run always were doubled chained at the ankle and only two were done at that," Tess's voice cracked. "But now I must show my control over you. I must let them see that I am making you suffer pain and humiliation."

"You will chain me and what?" Jordan posed.

"See to my daily duties around the Manor."

"And what else?"

"Nothing," Tess was confused by the question.

"Master," Jordan lifted Tess's chin, forcing their eyes to lock, "this is nothing compared to what I have suffered. A simple chaining will not bother me after all I have been through."

"But, Jordan, it will be at my hand this time. That makes it all the worse than anything you've been through before," it was Tess's moment for tears. "I don't want to hurt you for anything and now I will hurt you for doing as I asked."

"Master, I am honored you trusted me with your secret plan to steal the harvest. If it were revealed then you would go back to prison and the Manor would be handed over to Tosca. You trusted me so I will trust you," Jordan smiled brightly.

"We have tonight together before this little show," Tess ventured.

"Then come to bed and let us explore our trust where it really matters," Jordan laughed pulling Tess to her feet and over to the bed.

"Cory," Dinah's voice was shrill with urgency, "go down cellar and stay there 'til I come get you!"

"But, what did I do?" The boy did not understand his sudden banishment from the kitchen.

Dinah ignored the boy's question. She ushered him to the door. He turned in one last pleading glance as she shoed him down the steps and secured the latch behind him.

"Trouble?" Poe entered from the dining area at the commotion.

"Just look out the window. The Master has turned into her father's daughter. May God help us all!"

Poe bent his tall frame to look out the kitchen window. The view surprised him even with Dinah's warning. Tess was leading a very naked, chained Jordan on a leash. They appeared to be heading for the lower estate.

"I'll get Ben out of the stable and into the cellar," Poe agreed with Dinah's wisdom in this matter.

Twelve hours later, Jordan was unceremoniously shoved into her Master's bedroom. Fatigued from the grueling day, she tripped on her chains and crashed to the floor at the foot of the bed.

"I am not to be disturbed," Tess bellowed before slamming the door.

For a brief moment, the only sound was the soft hum of the monitor alert. A pathetic sob finally broke the stillness.

"Jordan, forgive me," Tess cried as she helped the slave to sit up.

"Water," Jordan's voice cracked.

Tess jumped to retrieve the cold water jug from her night stand. Sitting with it, she eased Jordan into her lap and allowed her small mouthfuls of the liquid.

"Not too much, now," Tess cautioned. "Slowly, my love."

Jordan stopped drinking. The concern in the words allowed her to relax against Tess' strong body. She whimpered when her pink, sunburned skin touched the rough cloth of Tess' shirt.

"I have cream for that burn," Tess moved to stand up.

"No! Just hold me," Jordan, surprised by the fear in her own voice, refused to be released from her current position.

"That bad, huh," Tess kissed the red brow beneath her chin.

"Oh, Tessa," Jordan sobbed. "It was so much worse than anything I have suffered before. They all saw. They were horrified. The pity in their eyes was terrible. And you were so close but so very far from me; not a kind word or soft touch."

Jordan's grief tore at Tess' heart. She had inflicted this unbearable pain on an innocent girl all in the name of the Manor. Tess hated herself.

"Let me get those chains off you and clean you up," Tess, desperate for distance, tried to separate herself for Jordan.

"NO!" the slave buried her face deeper between Tess' breasts. "Don't let go of me. Just hold me, please. I can't bare it alone for one more moment."

Tess tightened her grip on the shuddering slave. A bath and sunburn care could wait, she reasoned. Jordan needed her close. It was all that the woman had asked of her so it was truly the least Tess could do.

"I'm so sorry, Jordan," what else could Tess say.

"I need you," hot, puffs of breath tortured the pale breast pillowing Jordan's tear stained cheek. "Please, let me feel you."

"What are you saying?" Tess swallowed hard.

Jordan lifted her face to Tess' and placed a searing kiss on the soft, pink lips. Small but strong hands clutched the lapels of Tess' shirt. There was a barely restrained panic vibrating in the body cradled on Tess' lap.

"Own me, now!" It was a demand.

Tess lifted Jordan from the floor in a smooth movement. She carried them to the bed with deliberate purpose. Lowing the trembling body to the cool, silk sheets, Tess knew she should not take advantage of Jordan's emotional distress. Tess was sure it would be wrong to have the slave in this state; frightened and chained.

"Please, claim me, be my Master!"

Jordan's pleading drove Tess beyond reason. Tess let go of her tenuous hold on decorum and fell into the unknown blackness of reckless abandon. This moment was not about love but about absolute power. Its seductive embrace engulfed her as she plunged into Jordan's throbbing sex with four stiff fingers. Thrusting with a passion she did not reign in, Tess rode the slave with savage wantonness. Her mouth found a sweet pink nipple and she sucked in rhythm with her willful hand. Jordan's exquisite cries pushed Tess to hasten her punch; stroking the slave's desire higher. On the final shove, Tess chewed passionately on Jordan's sunburned breast.

"MASTER!" Jordan's scream echoed in the halls of the Manor.

For the first time in her life, Tess accepted who she really was; Togo's daughter, Master of Westerly.

The hum of the monitor alert broke into a full alarm shattering the early morning calm of the Manor. Tess leapt from the bed. Her shirt hung open and her pants needed snapping but boots were in place as her body dropped into a fighting stance. The bedroom door splintered open under the force of a battering ram. Governor's guards swarmed into the room with weapons drawn. Tess sized up the opposing force with their fire power and raised her hands in defeat.

Guards shoved her to the floor on her belly. Handcuffs were quickly clicked into place as well as leg irons. Tess willed her muscles to relax under the rough handling. Without a word, the guards dragged her to the study. They forced her to her knees before the governor sitting at her desk.

"Thank you for joining me," he smiled pleasantly.

"My home is your home," she smirked and a baton cracked across her back.

"Don't taunt the boys today," the governor pursed his lips. "They loath the country and need to beat the snot out of somebody very soon."

Several more guards entered with Jordan. She was still chained, naked, and looking worse for her night with Tess. Tess had to focus on the floor to hide her blush. Jordan did such wickedly delicious things to her body in the predawn hours, Tess was sure the excitement would show on her face.

"Oh, this is lovely," the governor drooled as his eyes raked over Jordan's figure. "It looks like you didn't spare her your fury."

"She betrayed me!" Tess stayed with the story in the hope Jordan could survive this coup. "But, she's a good fuck. You should keep her after you kill me."

The governor's laughter filled the room.

"I'm not here to kill you. There was a complaint made and I'm investigating. But, if I do kill you then I'll be certain to take the slave with me. She looks like a nice piece of ass."

Tosca sauntered into the room with two guards following in his wake. Trapped between the guards was a half dressed Poe. He was restrained in the same manner as Tess. The muscles across his bare chest rippled as he flexed in his bonds.

"How does this involve Poe?" Tess was alarmed when the guards dropped the man beside her.

"Don't you mean Daddy?" Tosca smiled.

"You, little twerp," Poe struggled to his feet only to be beaten back to his knees by the guards.

"STOP IT!" Tess was not sure if she directed her command to Poe or the guards but the beating ended abruptly. "Will somebody tell me what's going on?"

"Look at her," Tosca ignored Tess and spoke directly to the governor. "She looks just like the slave; dark, tall, strong."

"She looks like Agalia and you do too!" Poe was furious.

"If she is the product of two slaves then she is not free born and not entitled to the estate," Tosca continued to disregard the pair in favor of the governor. "It's obvious, she's just a bastard slave."

"NOT A BASTARD! Agalia was my wife," Poe fought with the guards to get to his feet but was mercilessly clubbed for his efforts.

"Poe, stop it," Tess' plea forced him to control himself. "Is it true?"

Poe looked into the bright blue eyes before him. Eyes that could be his own.

"I don't know," he sighed and a tear escaped down his cheek. "It could be true."

Tosca clapped his hands mockingly. The pair kneeling paid him no heed. They were too busy studying each other's features and seeing each other for the first time.

"Well, there are tests to sort out the details," the governor waved over the technician. "Tess, I'm afraid I'll have to keep you in custody until the results come in tomorrow. Is there a cell or something here?"

Tess shook her head trying to make sense of the last few minutes. She had never been so lost in her life. Then she caught sight of Jordan. Standing silently between two guards, Jordan's eyes were locked on Tess. Clear and true and unafraid, Jordan smiled. Tess had one thing to be certain of now; Jordan loved her.

"Answer the question," the guard punched Tess in the kidney.

"No, no cell," Tess gasped. "There's a restraining post in my stable."

"I guess that will have to do."

The technician swabbed a sample of DNA out of Tess' mouth. Placing it in a bag, he labeled and boxed it to travel. Poe tried to resist the swabbing but the guards forced his mouth open. Again, the technician bagged, labeled, and boxed the specimen. He was preparing to pack his equipment when Poe spoke up.

"Do Tosca too."

The room fell eerily silent as all eyes turned on the Lord. Tosca laughed nervously but nobody joined him.

"Care to explain," the governor spoke directly to Poe.

"Agalia was my wife before, during, and after Togo took her to rape nightly."

"That fucking whore!" Tosca screamed.

Poe bolted to his feet before the guards could knock him back down. He was heading straight for Tosca. One of Jordan's guards managed to get hold of him and pushed him back into the arms of his own guards. In the frantic attempt to regain control of the slave, nobody noticed Tosca cross the room and drive his knife into Poe's unprotected belly until the deed was done. Bedlam broke loose with the first sign of blood. Guards poured into the room and enforced order. Poe was dumped next to Tess and she shielded him as best she could from the scuffle. Tosca was finally tossed in a chair and subdued with a slap. Jordan had shrunk back from the brawl to cower in the corner. Guards pulled her front and center to kneel before the unfazed governor.

"Enough exercise, already," he tisked.

"Please, there is a doctor in town, send for him, please," Tess was desperate.

"I know how lenient you are with the slaves but not me, Contessa. He tried to attack a Lord. Poe got what was coming to him. If he survived then I would need to go to the trouble of executing him. But, I'm not a thoughtlessly cruel man. I'll send him to the barn with you so you can say your good-byes."

The guards seized both Tess and Poe. They were dragged from the room without a word or struggle.

"Now, Tosca, I'm going to let you go to your room and drink all you want. If I see that skinny behind of yours outside your room, I'll stake you out on the front lawn. Got it?" Tosca nodded as the guard pulled him from the study. "So, that leaves you."

The guards dragged her to her feet. Jordan stood proudly before the governor.. Fixing her gaze on him, she sneered ever so slightly.

"I don't usually do women but you look tasty," the governor licked his lips. "Let me see, which guard should be our escort? Did you any appeal to you?"

Jordan did not answer. On cue, her guard snapped her knees out from under her with his baton. Jordan grunted as she landed solidly on the floor.

"You're lucky I like the rough stuff," the governor chuckled. "You, there, with the beard," he pointed to a wall of a man, "take my little dish upstairs and warm her up for me."

The guard clicked his heels at the command. Grabbing a handful of Jordan's hair he pulled her from the room. Jordan focused her mind on becoming what the governor and this guard wanted; a good fuck.

"Poe, stay awake," Tess spoke to the rapidly paling face next to her on the stable floor.

"I'm sorry," he winced.

"For what? Trying to hit Tosca? I wish you did," Tess tried to keep it light.

"I'm sorry if I'm your father."

"Why?" Tess was hurt by the apparent rejection.

"I put you in such danger. It was wrong but we loved each other so much," he was panting in agony. "We would meet on the back stairs and most times have each other right there. She needed me after him to ease her soul. It was the only way to survive the daily brutality."

Tess had no words for Poe. Nothing would make him feel less guilty.

"You are everything I could want in a child but if you are my child then I have sentenced you to slavery," Poe was crying. "I'm so sorry."

"No, don't be sorry. You have always been a better father to me than Togo. I love you, Poe. And consequences be damned, I hope you are my father."

"My child, my daughter," Poe breathed his last with a smile.

Tess' anguished screams echoed across the estate long into the night.

"That's it, you can take it," the guard groaned as he stuffed himself into the tight, dark space of Jordan's ass. "Tell me how you like it!"

Jordan was on all fours on the floor. The guard at her backside had one arm hooked around her throat and the other squeezing the life out of her clit. He was relentless in his pounding assault.

"Harder, sir," she choked out the words.

"Oh, beautiful," the governor sat across from the scene playing with his limp member, "me next, big boy."

"Yes, sir," the guard slapped furiously into Jordan as he was approaching his climax.

Jordan felt the hot juice squirt into her. The guard slowed his pace with a steady discipline. Jordan was sure he and the governor played this game often. When he withdrew, Jordan dropped forward in a trembling heap. Their giggles told her she was on the right track with these two. They like the suffering even more than the sex. Exaggerating her pain, Jordan crawled to the governor's feet. She managed to rattle her chains along the way certain it would excite the man.

"Mercy," she wept as she kissed his boots.

"I'll have to give this one a try," the governor was finally hard. "Chain her on the bed."

Jordan gave the appearance of resistance as the guard scooped her up. She weakly fought his efforts to chain her wrists above her head and ankles spread apart. Crying with more enthusiasm than may have been needed, she begged the little man approaching her with an already bobbing penis to be gentle.

"Please, governor, don't hurt me," the words sounded empty and hollow to her but it did the trick for the governor as he firmed up.

"I'm gonna make you squeal," he straddled her and drove into her. "DAMN IT!"

Jordan bit her lip. She was too dry to support the prick. The guards meaty fingers had rubbed her raw. Rolling her eyes, she wondered why the governor had not be using cream while he played with himself.

"I'm sorry, sir. My Master keeps salve in the draw," the sudden slap surprised her.

Within a few seconds, the governor reigned down six or seven stinging smacks to her face. Jordan whimpered for real this time. The governor pulled himself out of her and shoved his sagging penis into her wounded mouth.

"SUCK ME, CUNT!" Jordan obliged but the governor's desire was still flagging. "You stinking dyke!" Slap, slap, slap; the frustrated man withdrew his member in favor of a beating. "I bet you get all slippery for Tess. Bet you can take her fist to the elbow. You probably soak her sheets. What could she possibly have that I don't?"

"A vagina."

Jordan knew it was stupid but she said it anyway. She was tired of acting like she cared. She was exhausted from pretending for the amusement of small men with smaller egos. Jordan wanted only to be with Tess regardless of the outcome of the paternity test. An enslaved Tess was better than any other master.

The governor was wild. His guard made the mistake of laughing and missed the crucial moment when governor tossed his knife. It lodged in the guard's windpipe. The big man dropped to the floor gagging twice before dying. The governor stepped over the body to get to the man's clothes piled on the chair. Returning to the bed with a whip, he smiled at Jordan.

"Now, that I have something stiff, let's see how sweet you really are."

Jordan did beg for mercy when the governor began raping her with the unyielding whip handle.

Jordan woke on the floor. Every inch of her body ached. She had blacked out during the assault and was not clear about her ejection from the bed. But, here she was on the floor and free of her fetters for the first time in two days.

The governor lay in the middle of the big bed, snoring. An empty nectar bottle clutched in his hand gave Jordan hope the man would sleep a while more. She shuddered to think he might wake with enough time to continue to torture her.

"Governor," a loud knock at the door broke the stillness but the governor did not stir.

Jordan hurried to the door. She hoped the guard would not need to wake the governor this soon. Opening the door, she felt the cold morning air chill across her sunburned flesh.

"Slave, where's the governor?" The guard was abrupt.

"Sir, he's sleeping, very heavily. He asked not to be disturbed," she figured it was worth a try.

"Well," the guard looked into the room and saw the governor sleeping soundly, "when he wakes give him this. Don't screw up or I'll flog your pretty, little hide."

"No, sir, I won't screw up."

Jordan shut the door and push the lock closed. She caressed the envelope entrust to her. It was nothing less than Tess' very life in her hands.

The governor sat once more in Tess' chair. Jordan, clothed in the skimpy tunic of a sex slave, knelt at his feet. Tosca sat across from them holding his aching head. A slightly green complexion indicated the Lord had stayed very drunk during the night but had nothing to drink this morning. Guards dragged Tess into the silent room. She never lifted her tear swollen eyes to look at the governor.

"Sleep well?" The governor smiled.

"Yes, sir, thank you, sir," Tess was numb from her loss of Poe.

"You're no fun," the governor sulked. "Remove her restraints. I'm sure the Master of Westerly would like to get washed up after a night in the stable."

Tess tried to process the information. The guards gently freed her and helped her into a nearby chair. Still unsure what to make of the governor's words, Tess remained silent as she buttoned her shirt over skin stained with Poe's blood.

"You are not Poe's bastard but," the governor smiled broadly, "Tosca is! Don't you just love poetic justice!"

Tosca's head snapped up at this. He frantically scanned the room looking for some kind of escape but the guards were on him. In moments, Tosca was kneeling before the governor naked and chained. When he tried to speak the guards clubbed him.

"I'm going to enjoy teaching you how to use that mouth, boy," the governor stood gracefully and walked over to Tess' chair. "Sorry about the inconvenience. No hard feelings."

The governor extended his hand and Tess rose on shaky legs to take it. His smile was dangerously happy.

"Thank you for sorting out everything," Tess forced herself to be polite.

"You don't mind if I keep Tosca, do you?"

"No, sir, he's yours to take."

"TESSA!" The guards smacked him to silence.

"Take him out to my transport and gag him for God's sake," the governor waved them away. "What about the girl? Wanna sell her to me?"

"I, ah, I," Tess felt a trap closing around her.

"What about a full clemency?" Jordan looked up in horror.

"Governor, sir," Tess ached over her decision, "your offer is most generous but I like her too much. She's becoming an obsession."

"Well, then," the governor husked, "the parole agreement stands. You are foolish, Tess. It's too good an offer to turn down over a piece of ass."

"It is also too good an offer to make over one."

The governor's laughter pierced the morning. He slapped Tess hard on the back, almost driving her to the floor.

"I guess, you finally figured a way around your clipping. Don't worry, I don't care if you fuck the little cunt blind just keep the food shipments coming," the governor winked. "I should come to country more often. It is very relaxing."

With that, the governor left them. His guards followed him out like a receding tide. Tess hurried over to Jordan and helped her to her feet. Any conversation was stifled with a passionate kiss.

"My room," Tess whispered when she pulled back.

They had bathed together in silence with the steady hum of the monitor alert easing them. Neither was ready to risk even eye contact. Once in the comfort of big bed, Tess treated Jordan's injuries.

"How could you?" Jordan sniffed as Tess finished bandaging Jordan's wrist.

"What?" Tess did not look up from her work.

"How could you give up your chance at freedom like that?" Jordan's trembling fingers lifted Tess' chin allowing her a clear view of beautiful blue eyes.

"You love me," Tess stated a fact. "Nobody has ever loved me the way you do. I can see it, Hell, I can feel it when you look at me."

Jordan's cheeks burned in embarrassment. She tried to turn away but Tess gently guided her back to face her. Jordan's tears fell freely.

"I do love you, Tessa, but you're wrong. Your father and mother loved you too," Jordan kissed the palm cupping her cheek. "Poe was your father. I changed the documents while the governor slept."

"I know," Tess breathed as her hands began to caress Jordan's breasts. "I was sure you had a part in saving me. How can I ever thank you?"

Jordan groaned when attentive fingers fondled her nipples to rock hard points. She arched her back as she reclined. Tess' mouth took over for her left hand allowing it the freedom to stroke Jordan's sex.

"I don't want to hurt you," Tess sighed releasing the nipple momentarily.

"Please, I want you," Jordan pushed out the image of the governor with the whip in his hand. "Maybe, you could do that thing, you know, to my back."

Tess laughed at the pink flush in Jordan's cheeks. Placing an innocent kiss on bruised lips, Tess released her grip on the woman.

"You are so sweet," Tess grinned, "roll over and let me serve you."

Jordan eagerly flipped on her belly. Tess' lips were like a salve on the tortured flesh; the fiery passion of each kiss cooled to a refreshing chill. Jordan captured Tess' hand and repositioned it between her thighs.

"Are you sure?" Tess hesitated.

"Master, I am yours," Jordan guided the fingers into her soaking center, "and this is the way I want it, always."

Tess began with a slow stroke into the abused sex. Poe's word echoed in her mind; "she needed me after him to ease her soul." Just like Jordan needed Tess now.

"I love you, Jordan," she felt the woman pushing hard against fingers impaling her. "I'll always love, you," Tess positioned herself over the curve of Jordan's ass cheek and began riding her. "I'm," Tess grunted as her own passion rose, "I'm yours, you know," Jordan squeaked at the words pushing her closer to orgasm, "Jordan," Tess ground out trying to hold back her moment, "I'M YOUR SLAVE!"

The women screamed their release together; losing themselves to each other forever.