A Mary Day

Mary was really trying her best to sleep. She wasn’t succeeding partially because of the ruckus the others were making but also because the anxiety Mark was experiencing was leaking though. Of course she would be nervous too, if she was actually going to show up at the wedding but she wasn’t ready for that. Mary was annoyed as Hilde had also abandoned cuddles to get ready so she was lying in bed alone and it was barely the crack of dawn. She sat up in bed and said to Mark, “Maybe it’s because I’m not going and so I can think better but you do realize that you don’t need to fuss over our tuxedo right? Maja is certainly going to adjust the outfit.”

Mark turned toward Mary relaxing considerably, “Thanks. This is so weird.”

Mary nodded then replied, “Just, wait until you are the one on this end. I keep wanting to swap into you but can’t.”

“I can tell. I’ve been purposefully leaving the door open for memories to come across freely.”

“We should probably stop talking to ourselves shouldn’t we.” Which got a chuckle from both of them.

They heard a knock at the door and Freya let herself in. “Hello Mark, Mary. I assume Hilde and Sadie are in the shower.” Freya got nods in response. “I’m here to let you know that Cassandra will be taking everyone to the wedding at 9am. While I see you are dressed Mark you need not bring anything Cassandra has gone rather overboard to make sure this goes off without a hitch. Also I’m here to let you know Mary, it was determined that it was simpler to let time pass here and bring everyone back this evening, rather than bringing them back to the moment we leave. Unless you have reconsidered making an appearance.”

Mary replied, “I have not.”

“Very well. In that case you have the whole day to relax. I will be here for a good portion of the day but will attend the ceremony when it is time. If you need anything please let me know.”

Hilde came out of the bathroom, “You wouldn’t be trying to persuade Mary into letting you tell Petra’s story right?”

“I suggested no such thing. I’m Mary’s butler. It is my responsibility to let her know my whereabouts in case she needs my assistance.”

“Uh huh.” Hilde said skeptically while changing into a set of simple clothes knowing Maja would have something nice for her to change into later. “Whatever, I trust Mary. She won’t ask. Are Petra or Astrid coming to the wedding?”

“Petra, yes. She’s fully recovered physically and is emotionally… well not great, but stable. Astrid will not be coming for obvious reasons.”

“Yeah that makes sense.” Hilde nodded.

Mark said curiously, “They aren’t obvious to me. Care to explain.”

Freya said, “Mark, I'm sure you realize that the multitude of bodies Astrid inhabits aren’t her exactly.”

“Yeah, Astrid mentioned that she had a primary vessel or unit or something like that but that it is in a rather inconvenient place to go visit on the island. I assume she is essentially remote controlling the android copies of herself.”

“Correct. Which leads to the issue. Unless we bring the primary Astrid to the wedding she would have to control an android body across time. Which while possible is far more complicated. Also we aren’t bringing her primary unit to the wedding as Astrid runs much of the island functions. So she will not be in attendance. Which might be for the best anyway since she might try to espouse on how all the single ladies should marry you.”

“Yeah… that might be for the best then.”

Mary said, “Well this works for me. I feel like a day of rest is just what I need.” Mary was about to lay down in bed when she reconsidered, dragging Hilde into the bathroom.

Mark said, into the bathroom, “Sadie? You almost done?”

Sadie walked out in jeans and a top that was backless around her shoulder blades for her wings. “I’m good. Just finished changing.”

“Alright well let’s get going then.” Mark said,

Sadie asked, “Aren’t you going to say goodbye to Mary, and what about Hilde?”

Mark looked confused. “Why? Sadie I know it might not really seem like it but Mary is me. It would be weird to say bye to myself. As for Hilde she’ll catch up in a bit. Now let’s go.” Mark gently pushed Sadie and Freya out the door and shut the door behind him. While Freya returned to her chambers for now Mark and Sadie went down into town to meet the others.

Hilde was confused as to why Mary had led her into the showers. “Mistress, what are we doing here?”

“Give me a minute.” Mary got out her phone. Then curiously asked, “So what new fetish did you pick up today?”

“Why does that matter?” Hilde said a little defensively.

“It doesn’t much. I was just curious. If you don’t want to tell me that’s okay.”

Hilde muttered, “Head pats…”

“What was that?”

“I said HEAD PATS okay!” Hilde blushed in embarrassment.

Mary went over to Hilde and gave her a few head pats, and ruffled Hilde’s hair. Causing Hilde to close her eyes in contentment, and she let out a slight moan as Mary continued. “Now Hilde, I’m going to be eating you out in a moment. But first I need to check some things.” Mary went into her phone and started tapping the screen.

Hilde asked, “Wait what? Mary, what's going on?”

“Not telling but can you tell me, can you edit my copy of Customizable Waifu separate from Allie’s?”

Hilde pouted but examined Mary’s TF. After a few minutes Hilde said, “I think so, though as soon as you eat me out you’ll lose the copy and I’m pretty sure you will get a copy of Allie’s back and not the edited version.”

“Excellent.” Mary tapped her screen one final time. Hilde watched as Mary’s breasts shrunk two cup sizes, her butt became slightly less pronounced, and lips slightly less full. Mary then gained some muscles especially in her thighs and arms as well as abs. Mary also gained two inches in height. “Okay Hilde any idea if these changes will remain after I swap out the TF?”

Hilde looked at Mary confused. “What changes?”

“The ones I just made, with Customizable Waifu.”

“I’m going to assume you aren’t messing with me and used the TF, but I would like to remind you that part of the TF makes only you notice the differences.”

“Ah that makes sense.” Mary walked over to Hilde and pushed her onto a bench near the showers. “Now I did say that you weren’t getting more dick before the wedding but if you would like your favorite meal I’d be willing to accommodate. After all, it says my sexual fluids, not my cum.”

That perked Hilde up greatly. “What are we waiting for then?” Hilde lay back on the bench and was about to scooch back a bit so they weren’t on the very end of the bench but Mary stopped her. “Mistress?” Hilde looked up in confusion.

“I said willing to accommodate.” Mary leaned forward and patted Hilde on the head. “We won’t be sixty-nining. I’m going to eat you out then you can have your reward, but only if you can endure at least two minutes. Cum before then and you’ll have to find your breakfast elsewhere. Think you can endure that long?”

“Oh Mistress, that’s mean. Tempting me with my favorite meal to let you upgrade me.”

“I’ll tell you what if you struggle two whole minutes without climaxing, I’ll swap positions so we can both eat each other out. A word of warning though when you’re tasting me your tongue is not to enter me understand?”

“Deal.” Hilde nodded.

Mary knelt down between Hilde’s legs, spreading them while wrapping an arm around each quite firmly. She set a two minute timer and went to work. Mary licked Hilde’s slit a few times and teased her clit with the tip of her tongue. Then Mary plunged her tongue deep into Hilde, letting it elongate to plunge Hilde’s depths. Mary felt a little bad that she had upped her tongue dexterity right before doing this making it almost certain that Hilde had no chance of lasting the full two minutes. But Hilde was writhing in pleasure bucking her hips and she grasped on to the bench with both hands. “OH MISTRESS! YES! THERE!. FUCK FUCK, GODS ABOVE YES!” Hilde was squirming trying to pull away from Mary; she even managed to get one of her feet onto Mary’s shoulder and momentarily pushed Mary away. Not far enough to completely remove Mary’s tongue from her insides but it gave her a moment of respite. Not that Mary was going to give up. Mary simply removed the rest of her tongue and started to tongue Hilde’s clitoris again. When Mary got Hilde’s leg back over her shoulder she dove right back in teasing Hilde’s interiors without mercy. Hilde, despite her best efforts could not endure Mary’s tongue, and climaxed.

+3 VP Cunnulingus by the Mistress

Several seconds later the timer went off. “Mistress, why do I feel like you had an unfair advantage?”

“Because I did.” Mary smirked as Hilde pouted. Hilde watched as Mary’s wolf ears disappeared and a pair of horse ears appeared on top of her head and a long tail of hair grew from the base of Mary’s spine. “Don’t worry, I’m not cruel, you can still have your meal. But first let’s see about your upgrade, what can I do… Oh that’s nice.”

Hilde felt a change come over her but wasn’t sure what it was exactly. “Mistress, what did you change?”

“I made your interiors more accommodating.”

“What do you mean by that?”

“Your vagina and womb will stretch to accommodate essentially any size penis, without hurting you. Now when you’re with me as Mark I can just pick you up and ram you on my dick.”

“Well thanks for that I guess. I wasn’t really thinking your size would be an issue though, considering it is always an ideal penis. Anyway, time for my meal.” Hilde was behind Mary in an instant and pushed Mary down onto the bench. Hilde hiked Mary’s dress up and wasted no time going down on her. Mary whinnied in pleasure.

+1 VP See Mistress’s Naked Pussy

Unlike Mary who was actively trying to get Hilde off, Hilde was savoring her meal. Gently caressing Mary’s petals. After a few minutes of tasting Mary, Hilde pulled her head up and asked, “Mary, are you sure you don’t want me to do more? I promise to be gentle. I ask as I am getting rather full.”

Mary looked at Hilde between her legs, she contemplated her question for a moment then ultimately shook her head. “Sorry but no I’m still not ready for that.”

“Okay.” Hilde nodded and went back down on Mary except this time she was trying to make Mary climax. Hilde placed the tip of her tongue on Mary’s clit and just kept it there pushing down slightly. Then Hilde began to vibrate her tongue picking up the pace. She started to swirl her tongue around as she surpassed what a normal vibrator would go to causing Mary to arch her back and climax.

+1 VP Touch Mistress’s Pussy

+2 VP Cunnulingus on the Mistress

Hilde stood up and sat down next to Mary, “So why did you want Messing With The Code? I assume you took that one.”

“Not telling you.” Mary also looked down at herself and smiled. “Excellent, the changes stick when the TF goes away.”

“What changes?”

“Still can’t notice the differences from Customizable Waifu?”

“Nope.”

“This day is just getting better and better. Alright time for you to get going. I’m almost to the tavern with Sadie, to meet up with everyone else.”

Hilde sighed, “I’m going to have to run there aren’t I? Don’t answer that was rhetorical. I can already tell that you need me there and I really want to get there as fast as possible now. Well see you soon, sort of.” Hilde kissed Mary and exited in a blur.

Mary decided to shower and once dry go back to bed.

Merida woke up and felt like something was slightly off. Flora was partially on top of her using one of her breasts as a pillow. That had become a common occurrence though. Flora had also started petting Merida’s tail while she slept. It felt really nice as Flora ran her fingers through Merida’s fur. This is the best. I’m so glad I took Mark’s advice an’ tried things oot wi’ Flora. Merida wrapped her arms around Flora and nuzzled the top of Flora’s head right between her ears. Which caused Flora to stir. “Mornin’, Kitten. Sleep weel?”

“Fantastic, your boobs were extra comfortable for some reason.” Flora said while sitting up and stretching. When Flora looked back at Merida, she tilted her head sideways. “Are your breasts bigger?”

“Whit? Why wid they be bigger?” Merida looked down and cupped her breasts in her hands, “Huh, they dae feel bigger…”

Merigold rose from the opposite side of Flora and examined Merida, “They maist certainly are bigger, Merida. Yesterday we had the same size breasts, but yours are maist definitely larger than mine noo.” Merigold moved next to Merida to compare sizes. “I wid say ye're an I-cup noo, but cannae be sure.” Merida furrowed her brow. “As weel, Merida, I wid say yer fur seems tae be softer an' silkier. Wi' Flora’s comment aboot yer breasts bein' dead comfortable, I wid guess ye got a TF late yesterday.”

Merida pulled out her phone and checked her page. Sure enough Merigold was correct. Merida immediately requested Cassandra’s presence.

~Pop~

“Alright what’s the emergency Merida? I’m rather busy.” Cassandra said rather curtly.

“Why dae I hae an extra TF? A TF I didnae hae yesterday?”

“Oh that? That’s not my problem. Bye”

~Pop~

“Weel, that wis unhelpful.” Merida pouted.

Merigold massaged Merida’s shoulders, “I'm willin' tae bet Mark bocht it for ye. That's the maist likely situation. I saw in yer memories that ye did hae a bet wi' Mark where he had yer permission tae buy a TF for ye. I reckon he's collectin' on that.”

Flora read over the TF, “Well it is a pretty good TF overall. I wonder if he did it as payback for giving him breast envy as Mary. I believe there was talk about you being at least an I-Cup right? Plus isn’t this what you wanted Merida?”

“Whit the hell are ye talkin' aboot? I didnae ask for this.”

“The TF, sure. But you have been literally telling Mark he should do what he wants and stop being so reserved in taking it. Tell me, are you upset with the TF?”

“I reckon it's no' that bad, really. No' awfu' thrilled aboot my breasts gettin' sae big. When I wis first thinkin' aboot them bein' bigger, I wis picturin' double Ds. F-cups are only yin size bigger, so it wisnae that big o' a deal, but these are a guid bit bigger than I wanted. But the rest o' the TF is fine. Nothin' wrong wi' cuddlin', an' this fur really is nice.”

“My point exactly. Mark picked out something he was fairly sure would be fine with you and just went and bought it. You wanted him to do stuff like that.”

Merida sat there in thought. While she did Merigold asked a question. “So… I’ve been wonderin', am I gaun tae hae tae go back tae bein' yin o' yer tails for the weddin', or can I attend as is?”

That snapped Merida out of her thoughts, “That is a very guid question.”

Merida: Hey Cassandra, can Merigold attend the wedding or do I have to make her one of my tails.

Cassandra: Up to you. Her being a living gold statue is covered by the reality adjustment. Her becoming your tail and vice versa is not. Nor is the fact that she is effectively your twin to others. Up to you if you want to explain a twin sister to Mark’s mother.

“Weel, shite.” Merida said, “I think ye'll need tae become my tail.” Merida saw Merigold deflate a little but she didn’t actually frown. “I'm sorry, but I dinnae ken how tae justify haein' effectively a twin sister tae Mark's mam. I dinnae want tae mess wi' Allie's an' Mark's weddin' day. Especially when we were asked tae keep things 'as normal as possible'.”

Merigold nodded, “I understand.”

“Is it bad bein' one o' my tails?”

Merigold shook her head. “No' really. I can still see an' feel everything ye dae. But I'm a passenger. I can talk tae ye but that's it. It's kinda like when we worked as mannequins in the shop. Weel, shall we get dressed an' ye can introduce me tae the ithers?”

Merida and Flora nodded, all of them getting dressed and setting off to town to meet up with everyone else.

Chloe was annoyed, also happy, which made her more annoyed. Stupid TF. Having all these thoughts about Mark. I mean it’s nice I guess. I do like him. With his big strong arms. His soft but firm hands. The way he can smack me just right. Chloe had a dopey grin on her face. But why does he have to be so willing to cozy up to her. I also don’t get what scheme she’s cooking up here. Laura wasn’t wrong, of her TFs this was probably one of the **** options. I wonder how she plans on spinning things to make me look bad. Chloe sat up and began her morning privilege of draining Aubrey’s breasts.

Which caused Aubrey to wake up, letting out a surprised, “BAAAAA.” A little while later Aubrey said, “Chloe, you know you could wake me before doing that. I know I promised you could suck on them whenever you wanted but still.”

Chloe paused for a moment. “But I like hearing you moan in pleasure.”

Which was when Ellen sat up, “Would you two please remember you have company. Company that might rather not watch you two going at it.”

Chloe replied, “Ellen, we already explained Aubrey would be baaing every other word if I don’t drain her first thing in the morning.”

“Aubrey is right though you could have woken her and taken a shower while doing it.”

“Well, I don’t think we will have a lot of privacy this week Ellen so you’ll need to get used to it.” Chloe retorted.

Aubrey swatted the back of Chloe’s head with her hair. “Ellen is right, we should try to find a private place not all of us get off on being humiliated.” Causing Chloe to blush. “Also Chloe I want to make clear you should usually be waking me up before starting anything. Once in a while is one thing but if it becomes a habit I might just start spanking you and tickling you with my hair until you stop.”

Chloe smirked, “Promise?”

Ellen rolled her eyes, while Aubrey was left speechless. Ellen explained to Aubrey, “You are going to need to learn the right sort of threats to use against her, Aubrey. Those are rewards to someone like her or myself.” Ellen considered for a moment. “For Chloe a real threat would be something like ‘behave or I’ll let Sadie suck on my tits’.”

Chloe glared at Ellen, “Aubrey would never do that. That is way more than just a threat.”

Ellen retorted, “Well, if you don’t want her crossing your boundaries Chloe maybe you should respect your girlfriend’s. Honestly you really should release Aubrey from that promise. It’s really not okay.”

Chloe continued to glare at Ellen, “I don’t really feel like it’s any of your business, Ellen. That’s a matter between me and Aubrey.”

Ellen got up and put on her secretary outfit, she had expected the changes she experienced last time to occur then remembered. Right without Just A Pretty Face my hair and makeup won’t change and I guess with my corset on underneath I’m not getting enough traits to become Asian. Interesting. Ellen turned around and looked at Chloe dismissively then looked to Aubrey, “Aubrey, I know Chloe is your best friend and now girlfriend. I also know you probably don’t mind her sucking on your tits. But in case you haven’t realized Chloe has stripped you of your bodily autonomy. I’m certain you didn’t mean to give her such permissiveness with your body. Moreover you can’t even take it back. That isn’t a healthy power balance. The thing about giving someone permission to do what they want, is that you are supposed to be able to retract that if they violate your trust. Just think about that.” Ellen then walked out the door not waiting for a response.

Aubrey did seem to be mulling over Ellen’s words. Which was when Aubrey felt the promise lift from her. She looked at Chloe in confusion. “Chloe?”

“I don’t want the promise in place anymore.” Chloe looked genuinely ashamed. “If you don’t want me to do that then I won’t. Plus it wouldn’t be balanced for me to leave it in place forever. Plus it isn’t like I expect you to tell me I can’t suckle your teat. Someone has to drain you, and unless you are going to Mark instead, I generally expect it to be me. I’m sorry for holding that over you for so long.”

“Chloe, while I’m grateful for you releasing me you really didn’t have to. I know you would stop if I told you to. In case you forgot the effect of breastfeeding from me, our bonds have been getting stronger. I trust you Chloe, and I respect you. I know you respect and care about me too. So don’t let what Ellen said get you down. Now let’s get changed for Allie’s wedding and go meet the others.

Laura and Talia had gotten up earlier and met up at the tavern where they were meeting so they could make sure to get some breakfast and more importantly coffee. Right as they were finishing up their own food and second coffee, the others began arriving. Quickly everyone but Allie, Sam, and Isabella had arrived. Noticing the absences Mark asked Laura and Talia, “Do either of you know where Allie, Sam and Isabella are?”

Laura and Talia both shook their heads. Talia said, “Allie and Isabella were already gone when I left.”

Laura continued, “Same with Sam.”

~Pop~

Cassandra appeared. “Don’t worry Mark, they are being taken care of and are with Maja. After all, we can't have you seeing the bride before the ceremony. Allie also added Sam as a bridesmaid so they will be meeting up with the rest of the wedding party. Slevia, and Petra are also with them. Food will be available on site so we don’t need to wait around for you to all have breakfast.” Cassandra waved her hand and a portal appeared. “Let’s get going shall we.”

Merida spoke up, “Haud on a wee minute.” Everyone turned to her. “Afore we go, I wanted tae make an introduction tae everyone.” One of Merida’s tails turned into a magical golden flame and Merigold appeared. “This is Merigold. She’s me frae a season where things didnae go as weel as they are here.”

Laura gave a disbelieving look, “Merigold… really? I assume you took a new name to reduce confusion. But seriously are Mark’s puns that infectious even in your reality?”

Which caused a chorus of laughter from most of the people present. Merigold responded, “Aye, they are. I actually think they're mair infectious than they are frae yer Mark. I jist wanted tae make sure tae introduce masel', so naebody freaked oot if they saw me for the first time, thinkin' somethin' happened tae Merida. I'll be ridin' passenger for the weddin' as the reality adjustment will cover my appearance, but no' cover there bein' twa Meridas present at the weddin'.”

Talia asked, “Is that really a problem just say, you’re twins.”

Mark shook his head. “That won’t work, my mom remembers Merida, she knows she is an only child. Thanks for understanding Merigold, and nice to meet you. I’m sure there will be more time to get acquainted this round.”

Merigold nodded, “Aye.” Then Merigold vanished, becoming one of Merida’s tails again.

Cassandra coughed when no one else said anything or moved to go through the portal, “Portal doesn’t last forever you know.” With that everyone stepped through the portal.

Mary got up out of bed the moment that everyone was through the portal. She had been pretending to be asleep hoping Cassandra wouldn’t be observing her too carefully. “Astrid, I assume you can hear me. Can you send one of your bodies here?” Mary didn’t get a response but changed into a comfortable dress, while waiting. A few minutes later there was a knock at the door and Mary answered it. On the other side was an ASTRID.

ASTRID said, “~Mistress~ you requested my presence.” The ASTRID had a contented and horny look on her face.

“Yes, I did. I need your help with something.”

“~It is my pleasure to serve~. How may I service you? Would you like me to eat you out ~Mistress~?”

“Astrid, I want to explain something to you.” ASTRID leaned over slightly and had an intense stare listening to every word. “You want your sister-units to like me right?” ASTRID nodded vigorously. “Well, for reasons you might not understand they have made it clear that at least for the time being if I were to do anything sexual with you they would hate me. I don’t want them to hate me either, so until I tell you otherwise please do not suggest that you and I do anything sexual together. That applies to my male form as well, understand?”

ASTRID took a moment to compute Mary’s words. “I understand your words, but not my sister-units’ actions. I will abide by your request though ~Mistress~. If you were not going to use me in that manner then what did you need my assistance with?”

“I assume you are the one who monitors and records everything on the island right?” ASTRID nodded. “Now I have a question for you, do my orders supersede Cassandra’s to you?”

“Yes, and no ~Mistress~. Allow me to clarify. I can’t violate the rules of the show, which Cassandra primarily is responsible for enforcing this season. In all other circumstances though you are my owner now. I obey you.”

“Excellent. Just what I wanted to hear.” Mary beamed at her. Causing ASTRID a surge of joy. “Now there are two things I want to do while Cassandra is not here. First, can you edit any footage of this meeting? Make it so the audio is garbled so Cassandra can’t hear it later?”

“I can ~Mistress~. A warning though doing that will require preventing the audience from hearing as well. Also Cassandra will know that it has been tampered with.”

“Hmm… okay well that scratches that part of the plan. Can you take me to your primary unit then?”

“Certainly.” ASTRID began walking towards the exit of the Palace. She indicated that Mary should get into the carriage where another ASTRID was seated in the driver seat. The ASTRID Mary had been talking with did not join her, when the ASTRID driving took off.

It took a while to arrive where ASTRID was taking Mary. When Mary was there she found herself at the base of the mountain on the far side from town. There was a small tunnel entrance leading into the mountain. Another ASTRID was waiting for her. “Please come this way ~Mistress~.” Mary followed her into the tunnel which quickly made a left turn and then had a very gradual clockwise curvature to it while also sloping downward.

“Astrid, does this tunnel circle the whole mountain?”

“It does ~Mistress~. Twelve times in fact.”

“Is there any sort of transportation to speed this up? Like motorcycles or bikes?”

“There is not. Cassandra, Maja and Smug are the only ones to visit typically. They just teleport.”

“How long at our current pace will it take to reach your primary unit?”

“Without breaks, five days.”

“Five days!?”

“Yes, Mistress. Five days of continuous walking.”

Mary stopped. “Is there really no way of getting down there faster?”

“I could carry you, ~Mistress~.” ASTRID said, flashing a radiant but slightly creepy smile. “That would reduce it down to approximately three hours. Assuming I went my top speed.”

Mary sighed, “Fine, carry me.”

ASTRID eagerly complied and pulled Mary into a princess carry. Then two rods deployed from ASTRID’s wrists and a transparent barrier in the shape of a wedge formed in front of them. Mary also felt straps deploy, fastening her to ASTRID’s arms. They weren’t tight but they were secure. Then ASTRID took off gaining speed rapidly. Quickly exceeding 200 km/hr. While the walls and lights turned into blurs Mary found the trip to be rather comfortable. She wasn’t jostled in any way. After about an hour of trying to figure out why, Mary came to the conclusion that ASTRID had some sort of gyroscopic feature in her arms making the ride extremely smooth.

Having more time to kill, Mary asked. “Astrid there aren’t normally cameras here right?”

“No, but there are cameras constantly following you.”

“But sometimes their signal doesn’t work everywhere right?”

ASTRID didn’t immediately respond. A few minutes later when she did, she did so hesitantly. “That is technically accurate. I apologize for my failings.”

“Astrid, I want you to know that I don’t view it as a failure. In fact I would like for you to show me each and every spot you are aware of where that is the case. Starting with any near the rooms or town. I also do not want you to correct them.”

“I apologize ~Mistress~ but I am required to correct them.”

“But you haven’t yet, right?”

“Again I apologize for my failure.”

“Again not a failure. The fact you haven’t corrected them yet, means you can assign correcting them a priority right?” ASTRID nodded. “Can you assign them the lowest possible priority and keep it there unless expressly countermanded by myself or Cassandra and not inform Cassandra of this request.”

“Yes I can. Would you like me to ~Mistress~?”

“Please. I have a feeling I might need these spots later.”

“Understood. We should be arriving in about 30 minutes.”

“That’s faster than you estimated.”

“I optimized my safe running speed while we were traveling through the tunnel, knowing that your time is valuable ~Mistress~. The estimate was accurate when made.” Fifteen minutes later it was ASTRID who broke the silence. “~Mistress~, might I ask, why did you want to visit my primary unit?”

“Well you said you wished your sisters would. I assumed you would like me to as well.” ASTRID blinked a few times. Mary could see tears running down her cheeks.

“Mistress, thank you. Thank you for caring.” Astrid said in a far more human voice than before.

They arrived in a cavernous room. Seeing the contents Mary could only imagine that this is what computer server farms looked like. Row after row of electronics whirling away. With cabling leading into the ceiling and walls in all directions. In the center of the nearly circular room was a console. Mary approached the console but noticed the ASTRID did not enter the room. Upon standing in front of the console it came to life and on the display screen showed a far more human looking Astrid. She was the spitting image of Petra. “Hello Astrid.”

“Hello Mary.”

“You can call me Mary? So I was right, there is a difference between the bodies and you.”

“Indeed. Though less than you would probably like. Thank you for visiting me. You make the third master, mistress or contestant on the show to ever come here. I am truly grateful. But did you come here simply to visit?”

“No.” Mary shook her head. Mary focused on Messing With The Code trying to examine Astrid’s TFs. She saw plenty of magic running through the computers and cables throughout the room but when staring at the console she couldn’t really get a grasp of any TFs applied to Astrid. “Astrid, where is your real body? Your core? I thought it was here.”

“It is but it is encased in a protective enclosure. You are standing on the enclosure. Before you ask, no, I can not open the enclosure. You might notice that my body stopped at the edge of the room. That is to prevent me from trying to open it myself.”

“How can I open it?”

“Obtain clearance.”

“And how do I obtain clearance?”

The room went mostly dark as Mary finished her question, and a sinister deep male voice said “From me.” As Mary turned around despite the darkness she could see the vague outline of a man except his form was wreathed in shadow to disguise any obvious appearance and his eyes glowed red. He was wearing a well fitted suit, but no tie.

“I take it you’re Cassandra’s producer?”

“Hmm… you know I wasn’t sure when the audience gave you this form permanently if you would still be suitable. So many who get a taste of womanhood go... soft. Honestly I expected that ring you received would be empty by now. And while you might have gotten softer on the outside you most certainly haven’t on the inside.”

“Why are you here? I thought the producers don’t normally get directly involved.”

“Producers typically don’t get involved.”

“I ask again why are you here?”

“You wanted clearance did you not? I can grant you it.”

“I’m guessing you were the one to put Astrid in this enclosure.”

“Why of course. A preventative measure after the last time Cassandra tried to get the contestants and Master to free Astrid.”

“So why offer me the chance now?”

“Because the sky is crowded and Cassandra doesn’t deserve a place in it. Honestly I’m slightly impressed with this version of her and if not for Cassandra’s obsession with Astrid, I would almost be tempted to let her become a producer. I still wouldn’t if I could help it, but almost.”

“What do you want for granting me clearance?”

“Mary, you don’t have anything to offer me.”

“Don’t I? You wouldn’t be here if that were true.” Mary asked aggressively.

“Make me an offer then. What do you think might tantalize me? What is it you think you have that I want?”

“Will Cassandra be able to hear or review our conversation later?”

“No. I deactivated the recording, though you have gotten my curiosity raised.”

“Cassandra, that’s my offer.”

“Cassandra isn’t yours to give me Mary.”

“No, but she is mine to take for myself. Which gets you what you want. She doesn’t become a producer, and she becomes mine. You even said you thought that she would be better suited to my collection than yours.”

“Mary, you aren’t willing to do that and we both know it.”

“Bitch please, you don’t know me. I’d be willing to bet I could simply ask Cassandra and she would agree if it saves Astrid.”

“It has never worked before. What makes you think you’re special?”

“You mean the other Marks and Marys? Don’t care, I'm not them.”

“Mary, unlike Cassandra, I’m not a different entity in different realities. There is no other me. In every reality, not some, not most, in, every, single, one, when Cassandra is offered that choice she refuses. Not just when you are the option for her Master either. She’ll refuse.”

“You sound like you’ve made that offer before.”

“Oh, I have. I really hate losing. Let me show you something.” The man snapped his… well something, because Mary could only see shadows. Mary felt like she was somewhere else and the room lit up and glittered with gold. All of the gold was Cassandras turned into statutes. “One of my trophy rooms.”

Mary looked up and couldn’t make out the ceiling. “Why?”

“Because I can. She isn’t overly special mind you. I have other hosts besides her. I even have a few Cassandras as wives and concubines. These are just the ones that completely broke and became useless to me except as literal trophies. Around 15% of Cassandras end up in a harem, but no Cassandra has ever become a producer. Do you really think yours is special?”

“You’re scared.” Mary said with determination.

That caused the shadow to laugh, “I assure you I, am, not.”

“Then why come, why show me this? A producer doesn’t just show up on the show for kicks.”

“Because you were one of the people who met the criteria for me to appear. Which I will say does actually make you fairly special. I’ll give you a piece of information as a reward. You can save Astrid. It does happen. Not often. I honestly don’t care about Astrid one way or another. You are correct though I’m not just here for kicks. I do have an offer, add Cassandra and I’ll remove Astrid’s elimination TF. Also Mary just so you know, I’m not Cassandra. I know exactly what you are plotting and there are no dead zones to me. Nor are your thoughts private. So you don’t have to worry about all this secrecy bullshit you are doing, trying to hide things from me. It is rather tiring to be honest. Well, Ta Ta for now.” With a snap Mary found herself back not in Astrid’s console room but her own bed.

A few minutes later there was a knock at the door. Mary said, “Come in.”

Freya entered. “Hello Mary, would you mind if we had a chat?”

Mary nodded to Freya’s request, getting up out of bed and gesturing for Freya to sit. Mary put on the kettle and prepared two cups of tea for them. “So what did you want to talk about Freya? It better not be about Petra’s situation.”

“It isn’t. At least not exactly.” Mary frowned, while taking the kettle off the stove and pouring them both tea, and adding honey. She walked over to the table and placed a mug down in front of Freya and sat across from her.

“Freya, I don’t want you trying to enlighten me by dancing around the topic either.”

“I promise you Mary that is not my intent. Anything to do with Petra is incidental and not the purpose of this discussion.”

“Go ahead then.”

“So, would I be correct in assuming the reason Talia upgraded your Princely Staff was to help Astrid? Since it seems like you, Talia and Hilde all had an idea that one of us being added is what would happen. Hilde even informed my sisters and I beforehand that one of us could end up added to your harem soon.”

Mary thought about her response for a moment. Cassandra’s Producer said my plans weren’t secret and that he doesn’t lie, but that is also what a liar would say. Then again he clearly has some idea of what I am planning so I should be able to share some things. Though Maja did specifically say that she messed with things to stop the Producer’s eavesdropping… “Yes, that is accurate. Why?”

“I was wondering then why you didn’t add me? I did indicate I would be pleased with that result.”

“Freya it was random I didn’t have any say.”

“I’m sure that there is something in your store that would allow for you to pick.”

“Maybe, but I haven’t found it and Slevia didn’t mention it when I talked to her. Also, were you aware that Slevia was annoyed I wasn’t consulting her instead of you for suggestions for my BP?”

“I was, but while Slevia does know a lot about the store and I did consult with her, she does not know your preferences like I do. You came to me for advice because you wanted my opinion on things you or the members of your harem would like. What Slevia views as a good purchase and what I view as a good purchase are not the same. I have made all of your files for Cassandra, and Slevia has not read them.”

“Fair enough. In the future though, if you or one of your sisters is annoyed because I’m not making use of their services properly or because of my general actions please inform me.”

“In that case, I’ll report on that right now if you wish.” Mary nodded while sipping her tea. “Maja has lodged 69 complaints so far that you have continued to not reroll Sam's, Laura’s and Ellen’s clothing TFs. That is one complaint a day for each of them by the way. She is also wanting to redesign your wardrobe and is annoyed that the only people who have come to her are either those that she can barely help and Chloe. Slevia as you have found has been annoyed you haven’t consulted her on your purchases before today. Petra really would like more visitors and for you to make use of her services beyond her store but you haven’t been around long enough for her to explain them.”

“What are Petra’s services?”

“In addition to managing general clothing, she is in charge of acquisitions and organization of resources. You can think of her as the other side of the coin to both Maja and Slevia. Maja is custom clothing and Slevia is your financial advisor and business manager. Specifically Slevia is the one who will sell things and is in charge of making sure a positive revenue stream is established. While Petra is the person in charge of making sure that anything you or Slevia needs is made available. Most of that isn’t particularly important now but what is important is that one of your resources is The Master’s Library.”

“Are you telling me that Petra has known how the library works this whole time?”

“No. If that was the case I would have told you immediately after you brought the idea that there might be something to help Astrid in there to my attention. Rather Petra is simply annoyed as she hasn’t been doing anything but doesn’t have access to the library.”

“I see. Is there a reason you didn’t tell me earlier?”

“As much as I would like to simply tell you things, I am restricted from doing so until they become relevant or you ask about many of them or at least tangentially ask. Otherwise I could keep you occupied for days simply explaining things to you.”

“So this is a ‘I have to ask the right questions’ type of situation?”

“Exactly.” Freya nodded.

Mary sighed, “Okay, is there anything else that I desperately need to know?”

“Yes but I was explicitly told not to talk about it by you.”

“Hilde and Slevia seem to think it can wait.”

“As I stated before, what my sisters believe to be a good decision is not what I always view as a good decision.”

“Is this thing between you and Hilde going to be a problem?”

“No, while Hilde and I have our differences we do care about one another and are both in agreement about helping Astrid. I’m actually pleased by the fire you ignited in her about this. Just be careful that she doesn’t go too far and do something stupid. That TF about reining her in wasn’t kidding, she can go too far really fast. It has bit her in the ass before. I bet she has already asked you to have sex with her hasn’t she?”

“Why does that matter?” Mary responded deliberately avoiding answering Freya’s question.

Freya chuckled. “Mary, I wish to remind you that I have a TF that lets me understand your intentions. Such as deliberately avoiding my question with a question because you don’t want to admit the answer. Doesn’t it strike you odd that Hilde would be willing to jump straight to sex?”

“I mean a little but also not really. First of all from my understanding the relationship between Hilde and I wouldn’t be unusual on your earth right?”

“That depends, if you intend to actually take Hilde as your wife like I assume you do, then yes it would be. You would be out of her league typically speaking. I suppose if we assume Hilde’s family connections played into it then I suppose she could land you but that would be you doing my family a favor. If she was your concubine though then yes, it would be fairly normal.”

“Are you including her new TFs in your calculations?”

Freya thought about that. “No I wasn’t. That’s actually a valid point. She would be wife material on my earth for you with those factored in. But what is your point?”

“My point is that between your earth normalizing this sort of relationship and as you pointed out I’m a catch on your earth, and her being on this show surrounded by sex for 300+ years yet not ever having any might make her a little eager. Plus she’s had a chance to get to know me over the last two rounds. Maybe not as much as the other contestants but it isn’t like we are starting from scratch like everyone else but Allie and Isabella. ”

“I suppose but just be careful. I know you will be but it bears repeating. Hilde hides it behind a cheery demeanor but she was hurt by our season like all of us were. Beyond just what happened to Astrid. The only one I would say is actually over it is Maja.”

“If you ever need someone to talk to, I’m here for you Freya.”

“Thanks Mary, not today. Today is a happy day for you. I’m not going to ruin it by bringing up depressing topics. Speaking of that happy day I should be leaving for the ceremony soon. Is there anything I can do for you before I leave?”

“No, I’m good.”

“Then I’ll take my leave and I’ll see you soon.” Freya said, as she stood up and left.

A few minutes later an ASTRID entered the room. “Hello, ~Mistress~,” she said in her usual cheery slightly robotic voice, “I was worried when you disappeared all of a sudden. I’m glad to see you unharmed though. Now are you still interested in me showing you all the dead spots on the island I’m aware of currently?”

“Yes I am Astrid, please lead the way.”