Chapter 38 - Testing
Saturday 4th February 2017
Kate and Fosanta walk into the kitchen to find Adastra and Seliha there. "I am guessing given you both look happy this morning that you melded again?"
"Yes Seliha, did you have a good night?"
"We had a bit of fun before bed which I really needed as it was a stressful day." Adastra puts her arm around Seliha before they both look at each other and share a short kiss.
"I am glad to see you two seem to be finally settling." Sam walking in with Amistathya behind.
"Seliha is opening up a little now which is making us both more comfortable Sam."
"I feel happy for both of you. I am also guessing from Kate looking rather fresh that you two also had fun last night?"
"Yes Sam and I am getting a shower tonight which I am looking forward too."
"That sounds good; you will have to tell me what it is like as it is difficult for me to find out yet."
"Why Sam?"
"I need to both become numb to Ami's past as well as learn how to control where to look. It is just going to take time."
"Ahh." Kate decides not to say anything else as Sam and Amistathya sit down to begin breakfast.
"We are going to have to leave now you three. We should be back just after five." Adastra being the designated driver for the day.
"Have fun and I hope you do not break something or confuse the machinery again." Adastra laughs a little before nodding. Seliha nods and Fosanta gives Kate a quick kiss before leaving. "A kiss before she leaves, that is nice. Are you two getting on well now Kate?"
"Well we seem to be growing closer and I am not quite as afraid as I was previously."
"That is good to hear." Sam takes another mouthful of breakfast before putting the spoon back down. "I hope you do not mind me asking but I think Ami is still testing me and I was wondering what you would be most scared of her testing you with."
"You mean like messing with my mind?"
"Yes those sort of things that you would definitely not want to happen Kate. I promise not to tell Fosanta as that would be mean. I for example would hate to be naked in front of others. I barely coped with you and Fosanta second day here. I was just glad bright red covered the embarrassment." Kate laughs a little.
"I would feel the same Sam as it is just a bit uncomfortable but really anything where I feel I have no say scares me."
"So you are more bothered about what she could do with your mind?"
"Yes Sam. You seem to be coping ok with Athya though."
"Oh that is the advantage of her being in a contract. She knows there is a limit to how far she can push before I push back. Which unfortunately did not apply on either Thessia or the Citadel which is where most of the fun occurred. Ami is extremely sharp minded at using situations to the best of her advantage."
"So because the contract did not apply she did things you would be against because she could get away with it?"
"Exactly Kate." Sam gets a message which he duly reads.
Sam,
The datapad is in our spare room, second drawer down.
Fosanta
Sam shows the message to Amistathya who gets up and leaves the room. "So..." Sam hears the door chime, "I will get it." He gets up from his seat to go and answer it. "Oh good morning." Sam seeing two Asari with five boxes stacked by the door, one longer than the rest.
"Good Morning. I believe it was a desk and four chairs Sam?"
"Indeed it was."
"Could you just sign here?" Sam makes sure he uses an ambiguous squiggle and that it is indeed for the proof of delivery.
"Thank you, have a good day."
"You too." Sam thinks he hears the Asari mutter something about it being a pity he seems to already have a partner. He just smiles to himself before dragging the packages in and propping them up against the banister of the staircase. Amistathya helps with the last two before the pair of them head back to the kitchen.
"Who was it Sam?"
"It was my desk and chairs for the basement. I am sure they will be fun to put up. I have a strange question for you Kate. How mean do you think Fosanta could be if she tried?"
"Well she has been a little mean in the bedroom but she seems fairly honest and does not seem to want to be mean. Why do you ask?" Sam checks the time and given it was two minutes before the contract begins he thinks it is a good time to come clean.
"Before you accuse me of anything Kate this was in no way my idea it was all Fosanta."
"I am not liking the sound of this. Would you like to explain everything Sam?"
"Yes. The datapad you signed last night was to prove you had no choice even though you did."
"Great. Hang on, how do you know about this?"
"I was told yesterday morning what Fosanta was planning. I do not think Adastra and Seliha know about this."
"Why did you not tell me Sam?"
"It was to prove a point and it was between you and Fosanta at that point. Anyway carefully have a look at the datapad you signed last night." Sam hands over the pad to Kate who seems to be in shock. "I never thought Fosanta had it in her to be quite so mean to be honest but she knows you both despise the idea of indentured servants and you like to have control. In this case you are one and have no control."
"No Sam. I am not doing this. This is just silly."
"I will tell you how today is going to work. If you do as I say then everyone will be happy. If you beg, do not do as you are told or moan about something that is asked of you it will be Ami who gets the punishment. The reverse will also be true unless I think Ami is deliberately being difficult. Is that clear Kate?"
"I cannot believe she would do such a thing. I am not playing this silly game."
"Ami please crouch down on the floor making sure the heals of your feet are off the ground." She compiles with no fuss or bother in full view of Kate. "Kate it is you who is hurting Ami now. She will be there five minutes and five minutes more for each time you ignore me. If she fails then it is you who gets punished. So are we clear about how everything works?"
"Could you not do this Sam?"
"Ten minutes Ami. Kate this is simple. I will not make you harm yourself and I will cause no lasting damage. Just forget about having a choice for the next few hours. Are we clear on the way punishments are to be handled Kate?"
"Yes Sam."
"I would really appreciate you dropping the you are doing this to humour me voice. I would like you to take on the one main rule Ami has which is unless you have a need for your arms they are to be folded behind you, the palm of each on the opposite elbow." Kate does as she is asked but looks non too impressed about it. "let me put your mind at rest Kate. The only thing I have planned for today is to sort the basement out, which is basically put up the four chairs and the desk then move everything to the right place. Does that sound like a difficult day?"
"No Sam." Sam was starting to wonder if the curt replies were because Kate is really trying her hardest or whether it is just her being difficult. Sam checks on Ami since she has only a couple of minutes left which she completes without too much drama. Sam helps her to stand.
"I believe you have something to say to Ami Kate." Sam thinking that was enough of a hint and goes to pick up two identical cups. He gets back to just see a confused look on Kate's face. "Kate you have something to say, it is really obvious. Ami could you put your arms out to your side with the palm of you hand upwards and level with your shoulders." Sam carefully places a cup on each hand. "Two minutes for Kate to think of what she should do. I know what will happen soon if this continues." Sam takes the cups away and Amistathya stretches her arms.
"Why are you doing this?" Sam sighs.
"I have a question for you to answer Kate. Are you scared?"
"Of course I am Sam."
"Ami do you have some advice for Kate?"
"Sam is very kind to give us a lot of freedom Kate. However if you mess up in whatever way, do not resist or complain and just accept it as Sam likes playing on your fears." Sam waits for a minute or so.
"Kate all you needed to do was tell Ami you apologise for messing up and thank you for taking the punishment. I am going to have to make you learn some way so. There are four chairs in boxes in boxes by the stairs. I will give you two minutes to move them downstairs but you must carry them with your arms straight out in front of you." Sam gets up and Amistathya knows what is happening and follows. Kate finally gets the hint and follows. Sam picks one of the chairs up holding the box on its sides with his arms straight out. "This is how I want you to carry them. If you bend your elbows then you know what happens. Ami could you go down to the basement and check that her arms are straight." She nods and leaves as Sam puts the box down and stands back. "Your two minutes start now." Kate picks up the first box and moves quickly down the stairs.
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
Adastra and Seliha were sat on a chair in a room near the testing room waiting for their turn. "So why is the testing done over two separate weekends?"
"Testing is quite physically tiring as each individual is using their biotics heavily for up to an hour. We need to ensure that the tiredness does not affect the results so next week the same tests are performed but the opposite way around. That way we can work out how much tiredness is affecting the results and the computer can estimate what should be possible."
"That makes sense."
"Well testing seems to be going well up to now." Fosanta walking in and sitting down next to Adastra to take a bit of a break. "I do not have an awful lot to do at the moment until it is your turn Adastra."
"You know I dislike being treated differently Fosanta."
"I apologise Adastra but we only have two individuals on the pulsar testing compared to the forty on the nebula test and the other pulsar tester is on Thessia. Unfortunately you are always going to feel you are treated a little differently because of you being the only pulsar tester here." Fosanta's omni-tool beeps.
"I guess it is just because I am different in this case." Fosanta nods before reading her message.
Fosanta,
She is doing well, failed everything up to now. I will do my best to change that.
Sam
"What is it as you look a little worried Fosanta?"
"I am a little as I have been working with Whesiva on a new design the last couple of days to get the sensors working on it. It was a message saying they are still not working but I am required to be here and the amps have to be finished by Monday to start manufacture for the next round of testing. She has asked if I would like to stay with her tonight so we can bounce ideas off each other."
"What will Kate think?"
"I am sure she will be fine about it Seliha. I did say we would have a shower together tonight but it will have to be moved to Sunday night instead. Unfortunately these things happen."
"They do, but it should be a one off so..."
"Exactly what I am thinking Adastra. Are you two ok if I leave you until your testing time? I think you are in two hours time." The two of them nod and Fosanta leaves.
"If it is two hours then I could show you one of the ion thrusters I saw yesterday as the output is rather nice."
"I would appreciate that Adastra." The two of them walk out and towards the propulsion building.
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
"Last chair Kate and you have twenty seven seconds." Sam had seen a steady decline in time so he was not holding too much hope of her succeeding this time either. Kate arrives back with four seconds left a little out of breath. "Be honest, did you bend your arms Kate?" Amistathya reappears to stand off to one side waiting for Sam to come to her.
"I did as my arms felt like they were burning."
"How many times Ami?"
"Twice, she also asked me to keep the first time from you." Kate looks annoyed at Amistathya.
"Thank you Ami. Kate I do not know why you are looking angry at her as it is Ami who will be punished for it. Ami could you help me carry this desk to the basement." The three of them head down the stairs and put the desk box on the floor. "I am not going to be popular with either of you for the next plan but I would like you both in a minute to put the four chairs together." Sam goes to the pack of black fabric and cuts a strip off. "Do either of you have any questions?"
"No Sam." Sam expected that response from Kate.
"How would you like us to do that Sam?" Kate looks a little confused.
"I see Ami remembered her punishment. I would like you from this point forward not to speak. Do you understand Ami?" She nods. "Kate since you have been consistently failing it would be unfair for me to hurt Ami any more since she is doing a good job. I would like you therefore to remove all your clothes."
"Please Sam. I will try harder."
"Do you not think about Ami at all before you speak Kate. Anyway either you remove all your clothes or I get all eight commandos around here and they can help you."
"You would not do that Sam."
"Ami would you kindly go and bring Hymara and Lianta here?" She nods and leaves.
"Please Sam no I will do anything."
"All I want you do to Kate is co-operate with me. I am really trying not to hurt you but I am very tempted to right now. I would like you to strip and let me tie your hands together. If you do so before Ami gets back then I will go and tell Hymara and Lianta they are not needed." Kate quickly sheds her clothes while Sam cuts a length of rope. By the time Sam had done so Kate was stood with her arms out. Sam quickly binds her hands together and ensures the knot is tight before heading up the stairs.
"Ami said you wanted us Sam."
"Well I would like a quick talk. I would like not too many questions and this is ok with everyone." The two of them nod. "Fosanta gave Kate a forced choice of being my servant for the day but she is being particularly difficult. If you like you could come down to the basement and say hello if you wish."
"I would really like to know what is happening with everyone in this house."
"You can ask her yourself although I doubt you will get many answers as he has no idea what is happening." Lianta nods and the four of them walk down the stairs.
"I thought you said you would turn them away Sam?" Kate going a deep red and trying to cover as much as possible.
"I lied given you need to learn I will do as I say. I am sure you know Hymara and Lianta."
"Sam said you were forced to choose this Kate? I just need to know that this is true."
"It is Lianta. I should have spent a few seconds reading the datapad instead of thinking about melding."
"If Amistathya has any say in all of this you are going to have a long day Kate. I think we best leave you now." Sam nods and the two of them leave.
"Sam could I point out that Fosanta had changed the end time on the contract to tomorrow lunch time."
"While I did specifically tell you not to speak Ami that was useful information to me so I will let you off. That does however mean Fosanta will not be coming back to the house then tonight."
"We were going to have a shower." Kate sounding a little upset.
"Kate. This was Fosanta's idea so all you need to do is your absolute best. Can you do that?"
"I think so."
"Ok I would like you and Ami to work together to put the chairs together. I would like you blindfolded Kate. If you try to remove it then there will be very big problems."
"I understand." Sam picks up the piece of fabric he cut off earlier and ties it around Kate's head.
"Can you see anything at all Kate?"
"No Sam."
"Good. Ami Kate cannot see anything so I would like you to help her with nothing on as well." Ami quickly strips everything off. "Ami you cannot touch any tools and given you cannot speak this is going to be a little difficult. I would like you to work with Kate to put the four chairs together. You have a couple of hours before lunch."
"I am really scared now Sam."
"Kate think about what you have to do. Ami will not harm you and to be honest she is probably more scared than you are as you could easily bruise her and he hates being naked around others." Sam ripping open the desk box and looking at something approaching a box of Tetris blocks. "Oh this is going to be fun." Sam looks at the instructions and sees that it is actually quite simple and the only tool you need is something that looked like an Allen key to lock the joints into place.
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
Fosanta knocks on Whesiva's door and she hears a come in from inside. She walks in to see Whesive looking rather tired. "Did you not sleep well last night Whesiva?"
"No Fosanta as I spotted one design flaw late last night which might have caused problems. Are you still coming back with me tonight?"
"Yes if that is ok." Whesiva nods. "I am actually glad you offered as I would rather be away from the house tonight."
"Why Fosanta?"
"I tricked Kate into being Sam's servant until tomorrow lunch time. I wish I had the strength to have done it myself but Sam seems to have treated Amistathya well so I thought he was a safe choice."
"I have no idea why you are doing this but I can see why it may be a bit difficult to go back."
"I will tell you a little more later but I need to head back to testing." Whesiva nods and Fosanta leaves.
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
Seliha and Adastra enter the observation room to the ion thruster testing hall. There was a five metre diameter thruster currently running a burn in test in the middle of the hall. "Oh I like the blue hue that is coming from the engine Adastra."
"It is rather nice. It is just a pity they are almost useless for giving any decent thrust."
"So why do Armali make them then?"
"High speed, high quality machinery and very low labour costs make them rather profitable I guess. I know there are a lot more servants who work in ion propulsion than in plasma propulsion."
"Could I actually see a thruster up close sometime in one of these halls?"
"I will see about getting you a visit to see the twenty metre one myself and Sam are to make. I would not be surprised if you could feel it throughout the building." Seliha smiles.
"I would be very grateful if I could see that Adastra. I have heard you having reservations about them though."
"Well I would not be surprised if we are close to the power limit for the testing hall given we are going to have to drive the radio frequency amplifiers very hard to make them produce sound."
"Could I ask why Sam did not take the idea of using conventional speakers?"
"They would need to probably be fibre optically connected given the amount we would need and it would be very difficult to get enough air movement for low frequencies. I think he also thought it would be easier to just ask Armali for a few thrusters than to try to work out who could deliver conventional speakers."
"I think I understand now. Do you know what we are going to do for the event?"
"I have no idea. We will probably have to discuss it next Sunday given Fosanta seems to be working tomorrow." Seliha nods. "We should be getting back before we miss our testing slot."
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
"That was not too bad to build actually. Certainly easier than the flat pack stuff I have put up previously." Sam admired the desk for a few moments before looking at how the two are progressing with the chairs. "Three out of four is not bad. How are you doing Kate?"
"I found it difficult at first as Athya is very delicate with her touch so it was hard to work out what she wanted me to do."
"I am glad to hear you are starting to work together. If you finish the fourth chair before I finish making dinner I will let both of you have one reward each."
"So that means I can free my hands, remove my blindfold or get dressed then Sam?"
"Yes Kate, although if you choose to get dressed then I will tie your arms behind you as per the rule after you have put everything on. Anyway have a think about it. You may wish to request a different reward." Sam leaves the two of them to get on with it.
"What do you think I should do Athya?" She stays quiet and continues on with building. "I am sure you can talk now and be safe." Amistathya puts her finger on Kate's lips to keep her quiet before continuing.
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
Adastra and Seliha walk out of the testing room towards the Skylounge. "I see what you mean about it being physically tiring Seliha."
"You really need more practice if you are tired already Adastra. There is a reason we are here all day and it is not to sit around. You still have control testing to do yet today."
"Really?"
"Yes. I have amplifier testing yet to do which I saw you doing just before you came out."
"Yes Fosanta told me it looked like a waste but they were storing the data anyway. I do wish they would ask you to do things nicely. While I understand some of them may well not be getting paid much to do that job the least they could be is nice."
"I agree but you get used to it. The Skylounge should be emptier today anyway so we can get a nice table."
"It is hardly a restaurant though is it?"
"It is but I get your point. How about a night in Nos Astra tonight and I will find somewhere within walking distance to sleep for the night. We can tell the commandos to pick us up tomorrow afternoon."
"That actually sounds like a great idea Seliha as it is not like we have had much time for just ourselves."
"That is a good point. I also know a restaurant which is a little out of the way but is popular and tends to be fairly busy."
"Would you not need to book a table if it is popular?"
"No they know I have markings and they have offered me a job as a waitress on numerous occasions but I could never live with everyone knowing what I look like. They do like employing unique or perfect individuals there."
"Ahh so this is one of these walk to the front of the queue and get in things." Seliha nods with a smile as they walk along the skybridge to the Skylounge. "Sounds good and since Fosanta is out and Sam has Athya and Kate for company I am sure everyone will be happy with it." Seliha opens her Omni-tool and starts making arrangements.
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
Sam looks across from the stairs to see Kate and Amistathya sitting next to the fourth completed chair. "I actually congratulate you both on completing the chairs in time. Before we go for lunch could I ask what you would both like as a reward, Ami first."
"I would like to keep mine for later if that is ok with you Sam?"
"It must be redeemed before tomorrow. Are you happy enough about that Ami?" She nods. "What about you Kate?"
"I would like my blindfold removing Sam."
"I will do so in a minute. Ami you are free to speak as that restriction was only for the duration of the chair building. Are you happy not to be covered up?"
"Could I get dressed temporarily and then regain my reward when I change into the other dress I had made."
"Only if it is very very good Ami."
"Well I really like it so I will take the risk." Sam nods and Amistathya walks to her pile of clothes and quickly puts them on.
"Kate I will remove your blindfold now. Just take your time." Sam loosens the knot and pulls it off Kate's head. "Happy Kate?"
"It is better when I can see." Sam nods and the three of them head upstairs and sit down in the kitchen to eat. "The only problem I have now is eating with my hands tied together."
"If you can think of something else to swap to then I will let your hands free Kate."
"Do you have any examples?"
"That punishment was instead of Ami getting it so I think Ami should suggest an alternative."
"I would like Kate to have a matching piece of rope around her neck to mine Sam." Kate looks a little surprised.
"Kate you do not have to do it and I will show you what I had in mind after food. If I release you though and you back out you will be sleeping on the floor tonight. It would however not impact you in any way unlike having your arms tied together."
"I will reluctantly take the offer as it is starting to hurt my wrists." Kate holds her arms out and Sam takes a minute to get the knot undone.
"Remember the one rule now applies Kate just to remind you." Kate nods before filling her face.
"May I go to change Sam?"
"Hold on a second." Sam uses the piece of rope he has just untied from kate to measure how big he needs to make the design. "Ok Ami. We will be in the top room when you are done." She nods and leaves. "I am just going to get the rope and then I will head upstairs. Join us when you are done Kate." She nods and Sam leaves.
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
Adastra and Seliha are back waiting for the last part of the testing. Seliha puts away her Omni-tool and leans back. "I can confirm we have a nice bed not far from the restaurant."
"I can barely wait... Could we walk from the city centre as I have had an idea?"
"Given the grin on your face I think I will like it. Of course." Adastra gives Seliha a hug. "We just need to collect a few things from the house and then leave."
"I think we should get out before five so we should be in Nos Astra for five thirty. This is sounding brilliant."
"I agree but testing will not wait for us." Adastra nods in agreement before the two of them head back to the testing room.
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
Kate joins Sam in the top room. He was half way through tightly plaiting one piece of rope. "I guess you can see what I have in mind Kate. This one is for Ami as I know how big to make it. You are free to make your own in the same way if you wish." Sam holds out a length of the blue rope with yellow strips in it to Kate.
"I will let you make it Sam so you know it is the same." Sam nods before finishing off the current one. It is only a couple of seconds after he finishes the last twist before he hears Amistathya coming up the stairs.
"Ami do not come in yet and could you face down the stairs please." Sam goes over to the doorway and finds her a couple of steps from the top facing away from the door. Sam carefully puts the rope work around her neck before tying it off tight. Sam cuts off the extra length from the knot. "I would like to see you properly in the room but I am impressed by the first look." She turns her head and smiles as Sam goes back to the table start the next one.
Amistathya walks into the room in an essentially clear dress at first glance. "Your markings are beautiful Athya. I really like them." She smiles to Kate.
"This is Ami and would never be any other individual. Would you like to explain everything about it to Kate and myself?" Sam able to see everything he wishes to from where he is sat.
"Well the design is basically an old 15mm bioamp holder design made into a dress which has inbuilt legs, feet, long sleeves and gloves. The core colour is five percent pearlescent blue which goes from a light blue to a slate grey depending upon the light direction. The skirt is entirely transparent. The section which holds the bioamp in separates at the back and is held closed by a bioamp or in my case a dummy equivalent. The hole in the back to get in is not very long so it would be literally impossible for me to remove it to go to the toilet. Therefore there is a small hole which I can urinate through." Kate looks shocked.
"You mean you have to urinate while still wearing the dress. Does it not seep down your leg?"
"No Kate as the material around that area is tight to prevent that from happening."
"Is the holder still functional for 15mm units Ami?"
"Yes I was tempted to make it smaller but I thought I would keep it as it was designed. I actually find 15mm quite comfortable as in my previous contract I was requested to wear an active limiter of this size."
"I never knew that either Ami. About all I can say is you do look so effortlessly attractive in the dress which met the design brief of being you. I see Kate is still trying to work out what has just happened. Would you like to share what you are thinking?"
"Why would anyone ever create something so impractical? Admittedly it looks aesthetically wonderful with your markings Athya but it makes no sense to me."
"Which is why I said it is Ami and no one else Kate. Ami you have definitely earnt your reward back."
"Thank you Sam. I must also thank you Kate for the kind words on my markings. As Adastra and Seliha have probably told you, they have not always got praise in the past. Well they got me mistreated, verbally abused and tortured. If I was a weaker individual I would have tattooed over them but as Sam knows they are me and I am them." Kate looks confused to Sam who was nearly finished creating a matching rope collar. Sam looks up after finishing to see the confusion.
"I apologise. Ami is correct the markings have her name so they are her." Sam walks over to Kate and ties the collar around her neck. "Is it comfortable?"
"It is ok Sam. It is not like I have to wear it for days."
"Yours is a little looser than Ami's, however I wanted to ensure that hers did not get snagged on something and it bruise her neck."
"I meant I am not too fussed as long as it is not choking me Sam." He nods. "What do you mean by the markings named Athya?" Sam looks to Amistathya.
"My name if you expand it out means pale stemmed five petalled flower Kate."
"Kate the caps on her five fingers, the braid down her arms and the root like ends." Amistathya holds her arm in the air and separates her fingers to give a better idea.
"That is rather impressive."
"I said roughly same thing Kate. Now you know why Ami could not be Ami without the markings." Kate nods. "We should think about getting you out of the dress if you do not wish Adastra or Seliha to see you. You did mention yesterday that you would like to keep your markings covered."
"I remember but I actually do not particularly mind Sam as it is very comfortable and since they also have markings then I do not think I have to worry. I would like a drink though."
"I would as well actually. Then we can rearrange the basement back to something approaching normal." The three of then head to the kitchen to get a drink before moving to the basement.
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
"I think having the control test at the end is the worst idea ever. I am very tried now."
"I hope it is not going to impact our evening." Seliha putting her arm around Adastra as the two of them head to the shuttle.
"Adastra, Seliha. Could I still get a lift back with you?" Fosanta quickly walking behind them to catch up.
"Of course Fosanta. I am surprised testing finished an hour early."
"There were a few people who did not turn up Adastra." Adastra nods. "So what are you two going to do tonight?" The three of them getting into the lift and going up twelve floors to the shuttle.
"Seliha is treating myself to a meal and somewhere nice to sleep."
"That sounds very nice. I wish I had the spare time this weekend but perhaps another weekend."
"I am sure she will understand you are busy."
"I hope so Seliha." The three of them get into the shuttle and head back to the house.
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
"Actually I have just thought if Fosanta is not coming back then why did she not take anything with her this morning."
"I have no idea Sam." Kate wondering if she did it so she could check up on how she is doing.
"In that case Kate if she does come then I would like you to only answer questions. If she asks you to do something then do so. You must however not touch her or ask her any questions. Is that all clear?"
"I will try Sam but it was excessively mean."
"I really hope you did not intentionally imply I am excessively mean Kate."
"No Sam." The three of them had got the corner looking reasonably pleasant with the black fabric covering the concrete walls, the computer on the desk and the four seats before Sam hears the front door.
"I am guessing testing finished early. You two coming?" Sam climbing the stairs and seeing Seliha first. "How was testing Seliha?"
"It was fairly normal, how was your day?"
"It was a bit of an oddly strange one Seliha. Hello Adastra." Sam seeing her coming down the stairs.
"Hello Sam. Myself and Seliha would like a night to ourselves so we are going to go somewhere tonight for a meal and a nice bed. We shou...ld be back tomorrow afternoon." Seliha wondered why Adastra had paused until she followed where she was looking.
"Oh my." Fosanta walks out of her bedroom to see Adastra and Seliha looking at a point behind Sam which was not clear from her position.
"Hello Fosanta. I figured you would be back for a few things. She has been quite a bit better after scaring her." Fosanta makes no response as she descends the stairs getting to where Adastra is before realising what they were all looking at. "My eyes are not deceiving me are they?" Fosanta walking down the rest of the stairs. "What have you done with Amistathya Sam?"
"Absolutely nothing Fosanta. She is wearing something she has designed with no input from myself and she willingly volunteered to show you all."
"It seems we may have made some incorrect assumptions in that case. Your markings are brilliant and your very subtly coloured dress is visually immaculate. I can see why he has taken such a liking to you." Amistathya seems to be going a little shy and purple at the praise and the amount of people looking at her.
"I agree with Seliha in that maybe we have had the wrong idea about you Amistathya. Your body does look very pleasing to the eye." Adastra moves past Sam and gives Amistathya a cautious hug.
"You have a wonderful opportunity to prove those in your past wrong Athya. Please take it with both hands and beat them to death with it." She nods and Adastra goes to stand next to Seliha. "Have a good night Sam. Are we good to go?" Seliha nods.
"I hope you both have a good time." Sam shouts getting a nod from the two of them before the door closes. "I really hope this has not ruined her evening."
"You think it might?"
"It depends on Seliha realising she needs just a bit of comforting as I think it may have been a little close to her past. Anyway would you like to know anything about Kate Fosanta?"
"No Sam but perhaps Seliha may have been a better choice."
"Could I ask why Fosanta?"
"I will speak to you outside." Sam nods and the two of them leave the house. Kate sits down on a seat.
"Why is she being so cold to me? What have I done?"
"Kate. You have about nineteen hours of this left. I know it may be easy for me to say who has experienced this for years but from what I hear you are a strong willed individual. Do not let this get to you."
"What is the point?"
"You can make the remaining time easier for yourself by being as youe when Sam left Kate."
"Can you be quiet please?" Amistathya nods and turns back around.
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
"Sam I do apologise immensely for being cold in there but I need her to see you as the person to look towards, not me. Now is going to be the test, if she leaves then she was not right for me."
"I understand that. She does seem to have made improvements but that may have been through willpower, thinking there is only so many hours left until you get back."
"I would like that breaking which I do not think would take much now Sam. This is hurting me more than you could understand but I am really interested in Kate being a father and I need to know she will be there for her as she grows up. Asari children can occasionally be, imaginatively difficult and it is sometimes difficult for a father from an alien species to feel a bond to them."
"I guess that is from them having no direct involvement in their creation?"
"Not really Sam. It is just that Asari can meld with their daughters to make that connection early. Individuals such as yourself have to wait until they can sufficiently control their nervous systems to meld, usually around their mid teens. I have heard rumours of people trying a four way meld but it never seems to end well."
"There is always someone willing to try. I think this will be most fun for myself and Ami given we are both on the dangerous list."
"If she forms a connection with you and she does as she is told then I assume she would be ok. I do agree with full melds though. It could be why Amistathya seems to be testing you more than usual."
"I know that all too well Fosanta. I have the relative safety of a contract to let me cope a bit better but we have decided to end it at the end of the month. Please do not tell Adastra and Seliha."
"I will not Sam. I must be going so I hope Kate does not cause you too many problems, but please remember anything not explicitly forbidden you can do. I can think of some things I would hate you to do but if it has to be then do so. I will see you early tomorrow afternoon."
"I understand. I hope you sleep well." Fosanta nods and leaves. Sam turns around and goes back into the house to see Kate looking a little upset on a chair. "Kate. I have nothing against you sitting but you have one rule and you have failed again with it." Sam sighs.
"I do not care Sam."
"Oh you do Kate. I mean I have had Ami tell me she hated me and she would have crippled me with biotics. Funnily enough not long after that she seemed to warm up to the idea of living here. I think you are going through the same process Kate."
"I am bored of this game; I want to stop playing it and leave."
"Unfortunately until lunchtime tomorrow you cannot leave Kate. Also this has never been a game."
"Leave me alone." Kate gets up and goes to her room.
"This is about the time I need some help Ami."
"What would you like help with Sam?"
"What to do with her as I really do not want to take her into Nos Astra as the journalists will get the wrong ideas. I would happily take you but not Kate so I need something else."
"Do you have any black material and rope left Sam?"
"I went a bit mad when getting the rope so I think there is still about ten metres left. Not really much material left though. What are you thinking?"
"Suspending her upside down from one of the metal ceiling beams in the basement. It is physically tough but it needs to be given she has just walked off."
"I assume given Adastra and Seliha are in Nos Astra that Imphaya and Aumarva will be out. I am going to need everyone else though. Would you be willing bring them here Ami as I am aware you still have your dress on?"
"Of course." Ami giving Sam a smile before leaving. Sam quickly goes to the basement and brings up a box and the spare rope which he puts down on the floor.
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
Ami knocks on the door and Lianta answers. "Hel..."
"I apologise for the rather revealing clothing Lianta but Sam would like everyone to see him in the sitting area." Lianta nods and goes into the house. Amistathya walks back before she holds up Sam's plan by letting everyone look at her. She walks in to find Sam looking in a box. "I think Lianta was a little shocked at how I was dressed but they are going to come across. What are you looking for?"
"Adastra had a fabric mesh holder which I thought would be good as a harness as the straps are wide so it would not dig in. Ahh there it is." Sam pulls it out of the box and holds it up. "It might be a bit of a pain to get the ropes through it but it is better than nothing."
"I think it will be fine Sam. I will wait in the kitchen so as not to distract everyone."
"Good idea." She nods and leaves. It is a couple of minutes before the six commandos walk into the house. "It is good to see you all."
"What is happening Sam?"
"Fosanta tricked Kate into being my servant until tomorrow lunch time Kalawa as a test. She seemed to think this was all a game until Fosanta came back about half an hour ago. She seems to have taken the fact it is not rather badly."
"So where is she?"
"In her room I think Swathana. I am guessing I may need to message Fosanta for the unlock code to the door. Anyway given her not following rules and walking off I need to make a stand so I need your help to tie her arms and legs together and put this on her." Sam held up the holder. "If any of you are unwilling to help then you can leave."
"Why would you need to put the holder on her Sam?"
"Yasmari, I know it may be difficult for you to do this as I know you are meant to be protecting her. I am not intending to harm her just make a very strong point so the idea was to suspend her upside down in the basement."
"Is there nothing else you could do?" Yasmari a little surprised at the suggested plan.
"Unless you would like to take her for a walk around Nos Astra with nothing on then I cannot think of anything. I would rather not give the journalists their main news article for tomorrow."
"I think we will all help you Sam as long as you promise to keep an eye on her."
"I can do that Swathana." Sam hoping she will break before bed time. "I need two of you on each exit she can take. The aim is to get the holder on her and let me tie her arms and legs together." All of them nod as Sam cuts a couple of pieces of rope and hands the holder to Yasmari. They all then proceed up the stairs to find the door locked predictably. "Kate this is not a game. If you unlock the door now then I will make what is to happen easier. For each minute you delay I will add ten to the time. I will get into that room eventually Kate so you may as well make it easier for yourself. You have sixty seconds."
"I told you to leave me alone."
"And I know what you need now is people to talk to Kate. You have all of this wrong in your head, you need to know this. Thirty seconds.
"How do you know I am wrong?"
"It would be rather irresponsible of me to agree to this if I did not know these things Kate. Just because you do not know does not mean I do not. ten seconds then you have a ten minute extension."
"So you have not been telling me everything?"
"Of course not Kate and I am unwilling to tell you now. You will find out once the contract has ended tomorrow. You have ten minutes more by the way."
"Ten minutes more of what?"
"I am not going to tell you what my intention is Kate other than you will not like it. Each time you have gone against me will add extra time. I really dislike having to do this Kate and it really hurts me. Co-operate and we can both be happier." Sam sees the panel turn green but does not open the door instantly. "Everyone just stay out of sight of the door for the moment." The commandos shuffle down the corridor a little. Sam takes the holder from Yasmari and opens the door to find Kate sitting on the side of the bed. "Kate are you willing to do as I say?"
"It is not like I have much choice is it?"
"No as I have six commandos waiting outside if you do not wish to. I would like you to put this on Kate." Sam holding the holder out to Kate. She reluctantly takes it and puts it on. "I apologise but I am going to have to ensure it is fairly tight Kate." Sam checks each of the straps noting that there is no real slack so he is happy. "Kate I am going to tie your arms behind you as per the rule and your legs together. This can be done here and you can be carried to the basement or you can willingly walk to the basement. Which would you rather Kate?"
"I would rather walk." Sam nods and gestures Kate to follow him out of the room and down the stairs. "I would like you six to follow please." They follow behind Kate a little distance away until they get to the basement. "Could you take two steps forward please Kate?" She does so looking a little confused. Sam ties her arms together so there is no chance of her moving them. "Could you put your legs together Kate?" Sam then ties those together. "I will be back in a minute Kate." Sam disappears upstairs.
"I am guessing you all know what is happening?"
"Not entirely but since Sam has a contract you signed then there is not much we can do to help you if he is not intending to cause long term physical harm. My apologies Kate." Swathana being honest in her delivery. Sam descends the stairs moments later with the spare rope, cutting it into four equal pieces as he does so.
"I apologise if you get some rope burn as I pull these pieces through the holder Kate." Sam begins putting two through each side. Kate seemed to be shaking a little. "Could you six work out the best way of holding her up while I tie off the ropes." Sam stands back looking towards Kate.
"No, no. Please put me down." Kate expressing her fear as she is biotically lifted from the floor by Yasmari. Swathana and Selayla then spin Kate so she is upside down. "Please Sam." Sam says nothing but approaches Kate and begins to tie the ropes around the supporting beam ensuring there is no way the knots will slip. It does not take long for him to tie the four ropes off and nod to Yasmari who lets Kate settle into the harness. "I need to have a talk to everyone upstairs Kate. I will be back in a few minutes."
"No please do not leave me Sam." He does so anyway with the commandos leaving as well. "Sam!" He makes sure to shut the door once they have all left.
"I am sure Lianta will explain while I get Ami."
"Explain what Lianta?" Hymara desperate to know.
"You remember when I said about that Asari with tattoos?" Hymara nods. "That was just over the top and looked strange." All the commandos were facing Lianta and not the door to the kitchen. "Well look for yourselves." The five of them turn around and just stand there.
"I am sure Ami will begin to think it is a bad shock if none of you say anything."
"Amistathya, as you know the degrading reports said you were unattractive or ugly and Sam deserved better. That would be a very difficult notion to achieve in practice. If Sam does not want you then could I?" Amistathya blushes heavily giving Sam a large hug to try and hide the embarrassment.
"Unfortunately Selayla I am keeping her. You may get an opportunity in a hundred years or so if you stay around and Ami likes you." Selayla nods with a smile.
"My apologies Amistathya. My name is Yasmari." She nods in greeting. "I never thought I would have the opportunity to see a marked Asari in person so I must thank you. Your markings make me uneasy but you do look wonderful."
"To think someone would try and get rid of those markings. You should not have had to have gone through all of that Amistathya as your markings are very nice." Amistathya gives a shy nod to Hymara.
"I am sure you would all like to express your appreciation but I have to check that Kate is ok. I am sure we can get her down on our own when we need too. I hope you all have a good night."
"Thank you everyone." Amistathya managed to get out through her embarrassment. A sea of smiles and nods made her happy before they all left.
"Ami, could you from now on keep your markings covered up as I think you may be distracting to people. I will make no mention to it distracting me."
"I really did not want to show them but I am going to need three people really to get out of this easily and Kate was in her room. I feel happy I did though as it is always nice to get praise." Sam gives her a hug.
"It is but we are going to have to have a talk to Kate." Amistathya nods and the two of them go back downstairs to see Kate struggling to get out. "Unfortunately Kate it will be difficult for you to get out with your hands behind you."
"Sam, I am finding it hard to think and I feel a little ill."
"Well it was about five when you were hung up. Given the total disregard for the rules and your position you will be here for five hours."
"How do you think I will manage that Sam? What about food and drink or the toilet?" Sam looks around and finds a large plastic lid which would make a decent tray. He slides it under where Kate is hanging.
"There we go, you can urinate into that Kate. You will manage the time because you have no way to get out and I will not let you before then. You will get drinks but no food. I hope everything is a bit clearer now."
"Kate just say when you need a drink and I will get you one. You are free to talk you must remember that, Sam is only punishing you for asking questions which you do not need the answers to."
"I cannot believe Fosanta even thought of doing this."
"She did seem reluctant to do this, hence I guess why I am doing it on her behalf. Neither of us will hurt you Kate." Kate sighs.
"It is not like I have much choice. Athya could I have a drink before we start?"
"Of course. I will be back in a minute." She goes upstairs to prepare a drink.
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
Seliha and Adastra had done their shopping and were now just approaching the restaurant. "I guess this is it?"
"It is." Seliha walks through the door first followed by Adastra, Imphaya and Aumarva.
"Good evening. I do... My apologies Seliha. We have two, two seat tables near each other if that would be ok. Alternatively you can choose to wait for a four seat table to become available."
"Are you two ok if I am with Seliha and you are not far away?" The pair of them nod.
"The two, two seat tables sound good to us."
"Please follow me." The four of them do so to a pair of two seat tables next to each other near the window, Seliha getting a smile and a nod from one of the waitresses as they walked through the restaurant. "You may arrange yourselves how you wish and your waitresses will be along shortly to provide you with menus and take your orders." They give the Asari greeter a nod before taking their seats.
"I have no idea how you just managed that but the view is quite something." Adastra looking out at the evening sun glinting off Nos Astra's buildings.
"As I said sometimes having markings helps. I wonder who we will get this evening." Adastra looks towards Seliha and smiles at her making that comment just as an Asari approaches with two datapads.
"I am Aphrina and I would be pleased if you would let me be your waitress this evening Seliha and Adastra."
"We are given a choice?"
"Of course Adastra as we wish you to be happy with every part of your meal and that includes the individuals serving you."
"I guess you have your job because of your darker blue skin and rather heavy red markings Aphrina?"
"I did Seliha. I also understand some people think I am angry or annoyed most of the time so I would not hold it against you if you wished someone else to serve you." Seliha looks to Adastra who nods with a smile.
"We are both happy for you to do so Aphrina." She seems to get a bit of vitality with that agreement, carefully handing each of them a datapad containing the menu.
"Would you like me to get you both anything while you make your decisions?"
"We are ok for the moment." She bows her head before leaving the two of them. "I said unique individuals."
"Does it really matter as long as they are pleasant?"
"No but it is nice to see variety and it makes me feel happier being in a place where they accept different people."
"Perhaps."
"Can I ask why you do not seem as happy as you did earlier?"
"I do apologise but the bit of quiet time here has given me time to think. All I feel is anger inside after seeing Athya. How someone could torture her I have no idea as she is young, attractive and seems friendly."
"There is nothing you can do about someone else's past. I am sure he will use her in some way for the event, which should prove the point you wish to put forward."
"You have a point but it just riles me that I did what I have done in the past for essentially minor abuse and blackmail. Athya has no closure and has probably suffered more than I have."
"I deeply apologise if you do not wish me to know but I assume you are talking about Sam's partner?"
"We are but why do you ask?"
"I worked with an individual who looked like she does; it must be a hundred and twenty years ago though, at least. I must ask if the gloves she usually wears hides markings?"
"I am curious now Aphrina as to why you ask?"
"As I was saying I worked with an individual who looked like her and she had markings on her hands. I would hate to say much more in case I am either wrong or I ruin your evening but I wondered if she was the same individual."
"If you leave your contact details I will try to arrange something but I cannot guarantee it will be soon or will happen."
"I would be most appreciative of anything you could do Seliha. Have you decided what you would wish to eat?"
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
"Are you really ok Fosanta as you look distracted?"
"I am really worried about tomorrow Whesiva as I have no idea how Kate will cope."
"Why are you doing this anyway?"
"I would like to have a child with her at some time. I need to know that she will stay with me so I thought of this plan. I really hate it now though."
"Ahh so you are making it difficult for her to stay to see if she will leave?"
"Exactly, it still does not comfort me though as I know Kate has no idea what is happening."
"You said tomorrow lunch time?"
"Yes I was tempted to get back a few minutes before then and sort of surprise her but I would need to arrange that and I have no idea how."
"A message?"
"I might be able to make one ambiguous enough. It would make me happier."
"Do it then Fosanta. There is no point in feeling bad all night." She nods and opens her Omni-tool.
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
"Athya is a while. Is she planning something Sam?"
"Of that I have little doubt Kate. This will be her reward at least as I know she likes being mean." Ami descends the stairs carrying a cup with a straw in, her other arm hiding something behind her. She puts the hidden thing on top of a box behind Kate.
"Is that what I think it is?" Amistathya nods with a grin and Sam has to laugh.
"What is it?" Sam puts a box over the top of it so Kate cannot see it.
"I think I know what Ami is to do and you will like it so much you may actually hate it. Anyway we need to bend you around so that you can have a drink." Sam and Amistathya put and arm each under her shoulder and lifts her up so her bottom half of her body is still held by the ropes but her head is the right way around. "Apologies if you feel light headed Kate." Amistathya holds the cup with her other arm as Kate drinks the contents. It does not take her long to finish the cup and the two of them let her back down. "Do you feel better now Kate?"
"Yes thank you." Ami picks up the piece of black fabric Sam had used earlier and puts it back over Kate's eyes. "Is there a reason you are blindfolding me?"
"There is no reason at all Kate. Where is that roll of stuff Sam?" Sam gets a message on his Omni-tool.
"Hold on a moment Ami."
Sam,
I am going to try and get back half an hour early. I would like to surprise her so if you could think of something then I would appreciate it.
Fosanta
Sam quickly sends back a reply before digging what Amistathya wanted from one of the boxes.
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
"From what you are telling me this should be a simple drop them in and it should work thing Whesiva."
"I am glad to hear that as I just got the design finished before I left today so that should mean it should only take a couple of hours tomorrow."
"Have you found someone to test it yet?"
"No I am going to go searching Monday and Tuesday morning. There must be at least one individual who would be willing in this city."
"Oh before you ask Whesiva I am not a possible candidate."
"Usarta said Armali Council employees are exempt so it would not matter anyway." Fosanta gets a message back.
Fosanta,
We will be in your top room. Be very quiet when you arrive and join us.
Sam
"It is so good to have friends who you can trust."
"I guess he worked out what you wanted?"
"It sounds like it but I will see tomorrow."
"I could really do with an early night as I have barely slept the last two nights."
"I think I may as well do the same given I doubt I will sleep well."
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
Sam had turned on his computer and Amistathya seemed addicted to minesweeper. Sam thought it was an easy game to pick up but he never thought it could be addictive. "One more game Ami and then we can do something else."
"Awww, but this is good Sam."
"I have other games, films, music and some books on here as well."
"Please, a break Sam?" Sam looks at the amount of time left.
"You have done well up until now Kate. You can have an all night break in what was forty five minutes and is now fifty five."
"Anything for five minutes Sam."
"Ami do it." She walks over and ends Kate's torment much to her relief.
"Thank you."
"Would you like a drink Kate?"
"Yes, why are you being nice Sam?" Sam nods to Amistathya who leaves to get a drink.
"I know how much these five minutes are going to cost Kate."
"Could I ask?"
"You are to be blindfolded while your arms are tied behind you which will also be the case tomorrow."
"Why did I have to say anything?"
"I have no idea but as long as you willingly do what I suggest then I am happy Kate."
"I will." Sam could hear the resigned but truthful tone to that statement.
"I think I believe you this time Kate. The last two times I think you have seen this as a game."
"I did. I just have no idea how Ami copes."
"Ami has not had to experience what you have Kate. She knew however when she said no limits she had to give up everything if I asked. You did not seem to grasp this." Amistathya reappears with a mug having heard some of the conversation.
"Kate. I cope through understanding. Sam knows I hate being naked and he also knows I would be legally unable to stop him if he dragged me to Nos Astra which he has not. He has taken advantage of that fact though." The two of them lift Kate up so she can drink which she does so before the two of them let her back down.
"If you hate being naked then why do you seem ok in a transparent dress?" Ami turns the vibrator back on, Kate's body instantly baulking at the renewed stimulation.
"Before my skin was burnt they took pleasure in seeing what they could fit inside me. I was naked, weak from not being fed well and I was unable to defend myself well from their biotics. From then on I like to have something to protect me, even if it is transparent."
"Oh. How long Sam?"
"Fifty five minutes Kate. Myself and Ami are going to get something to eat. We will be back in a bit."
"Ok." Kate manages to get out while trying not to beg for it to stop. Sam and Amistathya go upstairs to get food.
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
Whesiva walks out of the bedroom to see Fosanta just walking out of the bathroom. "Fosanta, if you would like you could sleep with me. I would appreciate the company for a change."
"I would appreciate it as well Whesiva. Thank you for the offer."
"No problem. I know you may find it a bit more comfortable."
"I just need to say no melding and no touching."
"I would be too uncomfortable with that anyway, especially with someone who I barely know." Fosanta nods and joins Whesiva in her room which had a very comfortable looking king sized bed in it.
"It is not like you have a lack of space is it?" Whesiva laughs a little.
"No, I feel lost in such a large bed." The two of them get in the bed and settle down. "I hope you sleep well Fosanta."
"You too." Whesiva gives Fosanta a smile before turning the light off.
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
"I am so glad I kept my bioamp on as I do not think I can make it to the bed." Seliha manages to turn the shower off.
"I can barely think properly. This has been the best day ever, thank you Adastra." Seliha snuggles up to Adastra.
"It should be me who is thanking you. I am so exhausted and I am so comfortable here." Adastra looks down to see Seliha with her eyes closed, Adastra smiles and rests her head on Seliha's and shuts her eyes.
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
"Ami, could you meld with me later to let me bring the third lot of memories out?"
"Of course Sam. Are you sure you want it to be tonight?"
"I feel sufficiently recovered from Tuesday now. If I am unreasonable tomorrow please tell me as I know I may be quite short tempered."
"I will."
"I was going to have a shower with the meld but Kate being my servant for longer than I planned has ruined that idea. Could we have a shower tomorrow evening?"
"Yes Sam, I will need one after I have removed this dress though as I am covered in lubricant."
"You can have a shower while I get Kate ready for bed." She nods. "Anyway that is time up for Kate so I think we should let her out." The two of them walk down the stairs. "Hello Kate. I see you could not wait for the bathroom."
"Is that it?" Kate's voice week and she was obviously not concentrating what was being said.
"It is Kate. Could you get the pillows from the spare bed so we can let Kate down onto something soft?" Amistathya nods and leaves. "I hope you understand now Kate what I mean by giving up everything?"
"I do." Sam gets her ready to be let down while Amistathya is away. It is not long before she is back; Sam moves the plastic tray and puts the pillows underneath her.
"Ami, can you hold her up so her legs can be let down first?" She does so and Sam unties the first two ropes which were holding up her waist. Sam then lowers her legs which raises her upper half. Sam unties the knots on the two upper ropes and gently lets her down onto the pillows. He then unties her legs, arms and removes the blindfold. "Kate, can you try to stand up for me?" She nods and tries to stand but she has no strength to get much beyond kneeling. "Kate you need something to eat and drink."
"I am sorry Sam."
"Put your arm over my shoulder Kate." Sam helps Kate up but realises she is almost to the point of being dead weight. "Ami, I hope it does not hurt you but could you help Kate on the other side." She does so which does help and the two of them practically drag Kate to the kitchen before putting her on a chair and making sure she does not fall off. "Ami can you get you dress off with just me helping?"
"I have thought through a way which I think will work. We can at least try." Sam nods.
/V\/V\/V\/V\/V\
The two of them had left Kate with some food and a drink and had told her that she had to eat it before they got back. They were in their bathroom and Ami had removed the dummy bioamp to reveal the opening. "I thought it would be bigger than that Ami. It seems barely big enough to get your waist through."
"It does stretch a bit Sam but yes it is a bit of a squeeze. I need you to slide your arms in either side of my waist before stretching the opening and pushing your arms up my front towards my shoulders." Sam squeezes his arms in and Ami bends over and Sam sees her body slowly slide further out as he pushes his arms further up. "Sam I need you to stop there as I need to get my head through."
"You would want me to stop with my hands pressed against your breasts." Sam laughing a little.
"If you are complaining Sam." Sam gives then a bit of a squeeze.
"They may not be as big as Adastra's but they are very nice." Ami pulls her head through the neck opening being careful of the rope around her neck.
"Could you move your arms around to be up my back and pull my shoulders back?" Sam does so and Ami slides out of the hole with her arms still half covered. She pulls her hands out of each arm before pulling them back to look right. "I know they are not large Sam but they are symmetrical and you cannot say I am flat chested unlike some Asari."
"Could I ask if your size is about average for Asari Ami?"
"Yes Sam. Adastra must be over average and Kate would be as well. Anyway could you help me get out of the bottom half Sam." He nods. "Put your hands in again and push you hands down over my hips and down my legs."
"How thick is this material anyway as it is very unyielding." Sam struggling to get her hips and his arms through the gap.
"It is the design not the material, given it was an old bioamp holder design it was meant to stay in place." Sam just about squeezes her out and once he was on her legs it was much easier with it practically sliding off by itself given the lubricant.
"I appreciate the help Sam." Sam smiles to Ami who enters the shower before turning it on. He leaves to go and sort out Kate.
As he walks into the kitchen he finds the plate empty but the cup only half finished. Kate seems to be sleeping. "Kate." Sam gives her a shake.
"Oww. I am so stiff it is not funny."
"Could you finish your drink Kate. I will then let you go to the toilet before tying up your arms and putting your blindfold on."
"Ok Sam." Sam goes to get the two pillows from the basement. Kate cautiously picks up the cup and drinks the last of the contents. It does not take long before he comes back with the pillows, one piece of rope and a new strip of black fabric.
"Can you stand up?" Kate cautiously stands but it is obvious her muscles are not going to last. "Put your arm over my shoulder Kate." She does so and Sam grabs hold of the harness at her hip to help her stand. The two of them proceed upstairs and in to the bathroom.
"I do not need to go to the toilet Sam."
"Are you sure?" Kate nods and they go through to the spare bedroom. Sam sits Kate on the side of the bed before throwing the pillows on the bed. He then puts the blindfold on her before tapping her arms. She puts her arms behind her and Sam ties them up, making sure they will not come loose in the night. Sam then pulls Kate onto the bed before putting the duvet over her. "Sleep well Kate." He leaves the room and crosses over before walking into his bathroom to see Ami just putting the towel on the towel rail. "I think you have destroyed Kate with your idea."
"She will be sore for a day or two but she will probably admit later that it was fun." Sam strips off and jumps into the shower.
"You said you had got some other things and I said I would not ask but I am curious."
"I have a few things for us that I would like to keep as a surprise."
"That sounds fair enough; as long as you do not do what you did to Kate to me then I am ok."
"I have to be careful as to what I can do with being your servant. You know and probably expect me to playfully tease you and be mean though."
"I think that is about the only thing I can be certain of with you Ami." Sam steps out of the shower and Ami takes him a dry towel from the rail. He quickly dries himself before the two of them go through to the bedroom. "I really like that rope collar Ami as it is not large and blends in nicely with your body, even though it does have bright yellow bits in it."
"Actually I must ask. Is it just one piece of rope?"
"You said one Ami so I had to get creative. I am guessing you just thought a single simple piece."
"I did as I thought anything more would be impractical but I like this and you seem to have made it just the right size as well." The two of them get into bed.
"If it is too tight then please do say as Kate's is a little looser."
"No it is fine Sam. I can get a couple of fingers behind it without it feeling tight."
"Good. I wanted to make sure that someone could not easily get their hand behind and that you would not snag it on something." She nods.
"Would you like to meld now Sam?" He thinks then nods. "Embrace eternity." Sam gets thrown into Ami's past again but it is no longer barely tolerable but just repulsive. Sam pulls the third group of memories out of the recessed memory. "You seem more relaxed now."
"It is like going for a walk in a sewer now rather than the feeling of the sewer water burning your skin off and then watching the rats pull the hanging bits loose. This is going to take weeks but I feel I can now meld with you when I want if I just prepare myself first."
"I am so pleased to hear that Sam." Ami gives Sam a hug until the time has elapsed and Sam seems to settle down a bit. "How do you feel now?"
"I know why Holana said I would hate her by the fourth day. She has only omitted the truly bad memories. It is not much better than actually melding with you."
"I hope I am worth the pain Sam as I know it cannot be easy."
"You need to stop thinking you are worth so little Ami. You even had Selayla practically begging to have you."
"I felt so embarrassed that an attractive commando practically asked to be my partner."
"I would take that as a massive compliment Ami. Your dress did look wondrous though. Anyway I could do with trying to get some sleep. I hope you sleep well."
"You too Sam." Sam nods before turning the light off.
Notes.
Over 13,000 words in this chapter which is fairly ridiculous but it needed that many and more in places. I apologise for anyone who is begging for more detail on certain parts but it would have been nearer 20,000 words. I will make sure to cover what happened retroactively in the next chapter.
I appreciate every one of you who read this each week. You are free to offer your opinions or suggestions by review and I will at least consider them for when I write new chapters.
Next chapter will be day 2 of Kate's test which will be on the 28th of July.