This story is set a week or two after the events of the story "Natural Affection (Link)". It can be read independently, but I recommend reading the other story first.

*****

Brad swallowed hard as he stood before her door. He had stood before it several times and none of those ended well. Behind this door lives Sarah. He had a crush on her for years.

A few months back he hatched the plan to gift her a present that was enchanted. Once presented she had to accept it. By the laws of this universe, it would have made Sarah like him more. Artificially raising her affection for him. But it hadn't been her that opened the door. It was her mother, who foiled his plan.

It had taken Brad weeks to find the courage for a second try. That time a divine creature of sex and allure had opened the door. Again his plan to win Sarah's heart was thwarted.

Worse yet was that in that moment of weakness he decided to pursue Valerie. The woman that had opened the door. She had been sexy yet strong and an aura of dominance around her. Back then he hadn't known that Valerie was Sarah's father. Changed by an unfortunate incident. Brad still didn't know the details, but in hindsight, he cursed his own raging hormones that led him to focus on Valerie instead of Sarah.

The third time Brad had been before this door played out very anti-climactic. No one opened, yet when he listened to it just a bit he heard moaning. Voices of passion that haunted his dreams for weeks.

It took quite a while for Brad to try again. When the door opened a very tall and muscular woman had stood there. She looked similar to Sarah's mother that he had assumed her to be Sarah's aunt. How wrong he had been. Later Brad found out that she had been Sarah's mother. Changed by her new class. With her spectacular physique and massive bosom, she was fuel for his teenage wet dreams.

How fickle had been his will at that time. Sarah and Valerie had been forgotten and the fifth time Brad had stood before this door he chose to pursue the Amazonian beauty. This time Sarah had opened the door, but she was unlike he remembered her. She had matured into a confident young woman, who radiated strength and confidence.

Sarah had made clear what she had thought of Brad and his enchanted presents. He still could hear her taunting him. Sarah had become a necromancer. Capable of ordering the undead and spirits. She had vowed to order a ghost to haunt him if he would ever show up here with a present again.

Maybe that moment would have been a good a good time for Brad to reflect on his misdeeds. To grow as a person. But it needed yet another woman to do just that. Cathy Bates had been pursuing Brad like Brad had pursued Sarah. Silently from afar with wishful thinking.

Cathy shared another similarity with Brad. Just like Brad, she showed up one day with an enchanted present at his door.

Unlike Sarah, he hadn't a person who opened the door for him. His parents always traveling the world for pleasure or work. So as he opened the door she gave him a present that was enchanted. He couldn't refuse as the magic made its work. One might be tolerable, but Cathy gave Brad present after present.

With each gift, Brad's affection grew for Cathy. Such was the world and rules he lived in. Cathy soon got her wish and both started dating. The relationship lasted a little longer as Cathy's money to buy gifts. The moment the artificial affection wore off Brad could think clearly again and broke it off.

Brad was angry at Cathy, but not as angry as with himself. Just a few months before he had tried the same trick. The same loophole in the rules of the universe. First to woe Sarah. Then her parents. He knew the damage was done. The dream to get together with Sarah forever shattered.

Yet he found himself before her door again. Brad rung with himself to finally find the strength to ring the doorbell. As his finger hovered over the button the door suddenly opened.

"Brad. What brings you here?", Sarah demanded. Not angry, but with a strength in her voice.

He needed a moment to take her all in. Sarah stood confidently in a pink dress overlaid with black lace. Her hair up in an elaborate braid. She looked young and beautiful, yet mature and with a presence.

When Brad found his voice he quickly blurred out his reason, before she could cut him off. "I am here to apologize. To you. And to your parents. Are they here?"

A single eyebrow rose and Brad was smitten with her yet again. How such a simple gesture could convey so much was beyond him. Brad saw the curiosity in it, yet a playful amusement.

A moment later she turned her head and Brad saw the delicate braiding on her head in detail. "Moms! Here is someone to see us," she said with confidentiality and a strong voice. A string of regrets tore through Brad yet again. Through his own means, he had destroyed any hope to ever get to know her better.

A moment later two figures appeared that had haunted his dreams. Valerie. A beautiful, supple and sexy Empusa. A type of Succubus. And Bethany. The tall and muscular perfection of an athletic female body. Both their faces darkened as they saw Brad.

"Relax," Sarah said with a cool tone. "He is here to talk, right?"

Brad quickly nodded and words sprout from his mouth like a waterfall. "I am here to apologize. To say I am sorry. Recently things happened that made me realize that ... I had been an asshole. A fool and an ass. I do not expect any of you to forgive me, but if my father taught me anything then it is to own your mistakes. It was wrong of me to try to buy your affection. I see that now. I am here to say I am sorry and that I regret my past actions."

Silence followed for a moment and Brad drew in a nervous breath. It was Valerie who broke it. "Damn, I guess no stabby stab stab," she said with a grin. Brad's mind immediately returned to the very sharp spear Valerie owned and the thread where she will put it if he ever showed up again.

"What my wife means to say is that we accept your apology," Bethany chimed in and then led her wife away. "Come on. You can do some other stabby things with your tail in our bedroom," she promised Valerie as she lured her wife away.

A moment later Brad was alone with Sarah again. He was painfully aware that Sarah had chosen to be silent till now. Finally, she pointed at his hands. "What is that?" she asked. Brad thought to hear a hint of amusement.

He looked down and noticed the small bouquet of flowers. They completely had slipped his mind.

"Flowers," he replied and immediately wished to take that obvious statement back. "My mother taught me to always bring flowers if you apologize to someone. Not sure if they are the right ones-" he trailed off.

To his amazement, she took them from him. "Maybe there is hope for you yet-" she simply said before closing the door.

Stunned Brad needed a few seconds. He had given up all hope of ever winning Sarah's heart. Yet her words just now stroked a fire in him. Maybe the was a chance. Small as it might be. Grinning like a fool he walked to the elevator.

A ding announced the cabin and the door opened. In it was a refined older woman who reminded Brad of Sarah. If he hadn't just met Sarah's mothers he would have mistaken her for just that. She appeared to be around mid-forties and dressed a tad old-fashioned. Most of all her braided hair threw Brad off. It was made up the same way as Sarah's.

She gave Brad a warm smile, yet he couldn't shake the feeling of being prey under the gaze of a predator. "Come on in Brad. I am Miss Kirin," she said with a strong voice.

Brad did as told, but was flabbergasted nonetheless. "How do you know my name?"

She gave him an enigmatic smile. "You could say I recently moved in close to Sarah. For the past few months, I have been a friend and advisor to her. A close one at that. Now be a dear and push the button for the ground floor."

Brad pushed it on instinct. Distracted by his own thoughts. What she had told certainly explained why Miss Kirin gave off a similar vibe as Sarah.

"Do you think your apology went well?" she inquired.

"I think so," he admitted.

"Well, you made a big mistake. But one that offers a chance for both of us." Again she gave him that smile that vexed him.

"What do you mean?" Brad asked confused.

"The flowers Brad. It was a fortunate mistake on your part," she stated.

"Did I get the wrong ones?"

With a ding, the elevator doors opened and Miss Kirin walked out. "No Brad. The flowers in general. Loosely interpreted they are a present, right? Do you remember what Sarah swore last time you came to her home with a present."

It only took a moment for Brad's mind to catch up. "Oh no! She told me she would get a ghost to haunt me!"

"Bingo," confirmed Miss Kirin. Just as she walked through the apartment buildings front doors without opening them.

"You are a ghost?" Brad half shouted.

"Stop being so dramatic and come on. Yes, I am a ghost and yes you are stuck with me. Let's head home, your home, and I'll clue you in."

"Shit," Brad muttered. He had to agree. This was a big fuck up. As he walked out he recalled another detail of Sarah's rant that day. "Wait. Are you that ghost that wants me as a baby girl? Sarah said that-"

Her immediate loud laughter made him cringe. "Don't tell me you believed that. Yes, my last regret had been that I have never raised a baby girl. That is what creates a ghost. Regret."

As Brad was still standing like a statue she urged him on. "Come on. Use your brain. Okay, gender changes can happen. Just ask Sarah's new mother. But have you ever heard of a way to regress someone's age? If I had known a spell like that I would have been rich when I had been alive. Besides. Ghosts can't use magic. You know that, right?"

"Normally they can't," he interjected, but quickly had to agree. It was ridicules. There was no way a ghost could make him an infant or a girl. "So why haunt me then?" he finally asked.

"That is a little complicated. I tell it to you on your drive home. While driving it might also be less suspicious." Miss Kirin confidently walked towards his car. A bright red sports-car he had gotten for his last birthday. Personally, he would have preferred something less flashy, but it was hard to tell that to his parents.

He swiftly took his seat and started the engine. Then he hesitated as he saw Miss Kirin take a seat beside him. "How can you sit there? Shouldn't you be immaterial?" he wondered out loud.

"Oh, please. I have been a ghost for centuries. You pick up some tricks. Like floating in place as if you sit somewhere. I learned that free-floating freaks living people out. Now drive and I tell you the answers to the really important questions. Why do I haunt you and not somebody else."

After he pulled out of the parking lot she started to explain. "Well, my last desire or wish was for a baby girl. Not that I am very fond of babies or so. It sprung forth from my wish to pass down my knowledge to someone worthy. And someone worthy I found. Sarah is for most purposes an ideal candidate. I saw her raw potential and I mean not just based on her class."

Miss Kirin fell silent. Just as Brad wanted to urge her she continued. "Once she will have proven that she learned all that I could offer I will be free. I will finally go into the real afterlife. With all the time I spend teaching her I grew fond of her. I want her to be not just powerful, but also happy. For that, I need someone in her life that could fill the role of being her partner. I think that could be you."

At once Brad's heart started beating harder. "So you want to help to get Sarah to like me?"

Her loud laugh made him twitch and a slight blush crept on his face. "No, you fool. She already likes you. Why else would she send her most important and trusted advisor after you? It is just the way you handled things before are seriously lacking in ... Well, everything."

He could hardly disagree. He had fucked up royally and he knew it. Still, hope blossomed in his heart. "So you can tell me what she likes and I'll-"

"No!" came the strong objection from Miss Kirin. "I may have had my faults when I had been alive, but a lack of loyalty hadn't been one of them. If I would be to tell you all her secrets and desires I would betray her. That is out of the question. However-"

She turned towards him and gave him a devious smile. "I can teach you. Form you into something worthy of her. But don't be too quick to sign up. My teaching might be the hardest you ever have to endure. Do you know why?"

Brad shook his head and Miss Kirin continued. "Sarah is confident and strong-willed. Dominant if you so will. There are two ways for her to be an ideal partner. The first one you truly ruined for yourself. To be nearly or as dominant as her. The very fact that you showed up with enchanted gifts tells all. Even you don't think you are worthy of her on your own. No. Dominant is right out. The second best way, the only one left for you, would be to go the opposite way."

"You mean to go submissive?" Brad asked. "To become someone weak-willed? I am not-"

"Oh no no no. You are jumping to conclusions again. Submissive yes, but a weak-willed person will never earn her respect," Miss Kirin corrected him.

"Isn't a strong-willed submissive person paradoxical?" he asked skeptically.

"Absolutely not. I admit there are many submissive people out there who lack will and favor giving their freedom for that reason to someone else. But there are others. People with a strength of will that chose to surrender their freedom. For them, it is not giving up. It is a way to give the ultimate present."

"A romantic gesture that can't be topped," Brad concluded.

Miss Kirin gave him a bright smile. "Now you are showing the reason I saw potential in you. Yes. You are right. But there is more. A strong-willed submissive can go deeper than a weak-willed one. To endure more. Because they have the will to do it not for themselves, but for the person they love."

Several heartbeats passed in silence before Brad found his voice.

"I am not sure I am that strong," he admitted quietly.

"Of course not. No one is born that strong-willed. But it can be taught. That is why I am here. If you accept me as your teacher I will teach you the strength you need to fully embrace your own submissiveness. The choice is yours. Sarah set up the haunting in a way that allows me to break it up. If you want I'll be gone from your life in a heartbeat. Or I can teach you. The choice is yours."

Brad's mind raced. It was so much to stomach. The whole day had been a rollercoaster so far. Now before him was a unique opportunity. One he could reject or embrace. Was it worth it? He didn't know. However, he knew that Sarah was worth it. For years he had longed to be with her. Now he had a chance. Did he have the will to do so? If not he would be giving up. Always be a half measure.

Miss Kirin was right. Only dedicating oneself full was the way to Sarah's heart. In this moment that he decided he also realized in part what Miss Kirin had talked about. The strength and will to go through with it. He had found it. He took his eyes for a moment from the street before him and looked her with resolve into the eyes. "Sarah is worth it. Please. Will you be my teacher?"

"There is the spark I had anticipated. Of course. Now. Let's start right away. Take the next exit on the right. We make a detour to the mall."

*****

It didn't take long for them to arrive. Miss Kirin steered him towards the big department store.

"To the lingerie section. Now, remember. Only you can see me, so be a bit guarded about how you talk to me. We don't want people to think you are crazy."

"Why the lingerie section?" asked Brad while trying to be inconspicuous.

"We are here for your first task and lesson. Women need panties for one of two reasons. For daily wear and for times when they want to be sexy. I want you to pick out five for the latter reason. Chose the ones you think would be best for Sarah."

Brad nodded but couldn't help himself. He had to ask. "How will that help me? I don't think they would make a fitting gift. Well, not as the first one."

"Right you are. The reason is simple. I see how uncomfortable you are with the task. Besides. If you manage to win Sarah's love the ability to buy her undergarments without turning beet red is a plus. Don't you agree?"

Brad nodded and started his search. There were a lot of attractive choices and he needed a while. If he would have shopped for himself he would be out of the store by now. Miss Kirin, however, urged him to take his time. In the end, he found five he liked. Four were very lacy and slightly see through. One was more on the frilly cute side. Miss Kirin held back her opinion. Only correcting him on the size. Personally, he thought Sarah wore smaller ones, but Miss Kirin surely knew her stuff.

As he walked to the cashier Miss Kirin gave him a last tip. "Now don't embarrass yourself. If you hand the panties over don't try to explain yourself. Many men buy Dessous for their women. However, if you explain yourself then you appear guilty of something. Just act if you buy the underwear you normally buy for yourself."

Brad gave her a slight nod. He was nervous but did as told. The bored cashier rung up and packed away Brad's purchase in seconds. Just as Miss Kirin had predicted.

Walking out of the store he felt strangely proud. It had been a tad scary for a moment. Yet afterward he knew how stupid it had been.

"Okay. Next step. Go to the restroom," came Miss Kirin's instruction.

Brad was a trifle confused but did as told. On her instruction, he entered the last stall. He was a little freaked out that she followed him in.

"Relax. Now take your purchases out," she told him. As he did she continued. "Now I want you to feel the material. I bet it feels a lot different than your normal underwear, right?"

"Yeah, it's pretty soft," he agreed.

"Well, time for the next step. Drop your pants!" she firmly ordered him.

"What?" asked a flabbergasted Brad.

"There is nothing I haven't seen yet. I mean ghosts can see everything. Many are more undead voyeur spectators than specters. Believe me, I know what you are packing. I even know the silly faces you make when you are masturbating."

"Holy shit. Hell no!" Brad half shouted.

"I know how that is. Gotta watch what you eat, right? Hang in there buddy," came a shout back from another stall.

Brad quickly held his mouth shut with both his hands. In shock, he didn't notice that he held the soft panties right under his nose.

"Don't make a big deal out of it," Miss Kirin chastised him. "I had to research you before I could be certain that you are right for Sarah."

Slowly Brad calmed down. Right. Sarah. He was doing all this for her. He guessed a ghost couldn't go gossiping about him anyway. The only living person she could talk to was Sarah. If she wanted to do that she would probably already have done that by now. He wasn't happy about it, but in the end, he complied nonetheless.

"Your boxer shorts too," she admonished and reminded him of the task at hand. Once bare naked below his waist she continued. "Now pick one of the panties and wear it."

That gave Brad several seconds of pause. He gave her an unsure lopsided smile. "Are you sure this isn't an elaborate plan to make me a girl?"

"Look. I am a ghost. There are only so many things I can do as I can't take a more hands-on approach. Excuse the pun. The fact that you are so weary of girly stuff makes it a good challenge. Why else would I suggest this?"

"For revenge?" Brad volunteered.

"I taught Sarah better than to be after petty revenge," she squatted his idea aside.

Brad had to make a decision. Should he continue? Once again he had to remind himself for whom he did all this. He took a long look at the panties in his hand and chose the frilly one. It was the one that was the least see-through. He quickly stepped into it before he could lose his resolve. A moment later he had settled it in its place.

"Well done. Now wear your pants over it. Then put on your shoes and meet me at the food court. Don't forget to flush the toilet."

She was gone before he could reply. Quickly he followed her instructions and headed out. Once outside paranoia made itself know. To him, everyone looked at him and just knew what he was wearing. Of course, that was a stupid assumption. With a racing heart, he arrived at the court and saw Miss Kirin a moment later.

"Get yourself some lunch and then join me," she told him before he could settle down.

She sat at a table that was slightly away from other tables. Or to be more precise she floated in a way that made it appear to him that she was sitting there. The smell of fast food woke the hunger in him. By now it was nearly noon. He got a burger menu and then made his way over.

"By all means start," she urged him.

He wanted to, but a question burned in him. Maybe to distract himself he blurted it out. "Don't you miss it? Eating I mean."

"A little, but my last bite had been so long ago that I barely remember what it's like. Don't worry. I don't mind seeing you eating."

He nodded and took his first bite. After swallowing he had to ask another question. "So. How does one become a ghost?"

"Haven't they taught you this in school? Very well. I shall enlighten you. There are two ways to die permanently. One is to be of old age. Not even being bound to a respawn stone will save you. If your time is up then it is time to go. The second is the one that has the chance to make you a ghost. You see if you die by any other means then old age you respawn. At that moment the connection to the respawn stone is severed. If you get killed before you can rebind yourself you are dead for real too. Now here is the thing. If you harbor in your soul a strong wish, desire or regret it could bind you to the world of the living. In that case, you go through a natural class change. What class of ghost you end up is random or beyond my knowledge of reason."

"I didn't know that ghosts have classes," admitted a baffled Brad.

"Yes, they have. You could say they are stuck in the ultimate undesirable class. Now. I see your lunch is gone. Time for your next task." She must have seen the uncertainty in his eyes as she quickly expanded on it. "This one is a pure mental hurdle. No risky business. I want you to tell me honestly how you feel right now and how it feels to wear such feminine panties."

Brad took a moment to collect himself and search his own feelings. "Nervous I would say. At first, my heart did beat like crazy. I was convinced everyone knew. That settled for now. Instead, I feel jittery right now. In my arms and legs."

"That is the adrenaline, my dear. The rush put you right between your fight or flight reflex responses. Now the adrenaline wears off. That causes your slight trembling," Miss Kirin explained. "How do the panties themselves feel?"

"Very soft and maybe a bit cool? It's hard to describe. They also... Well, they don't offer much support for ... You know. Also, the edges dig a little into my skin.”

"Well, that is to be expected. After all, they are designed for the female anatomy. Anything else?"

Brad hesitated and then remained quiet. Miss Kirin knew she had to push a bit more. "Look. One of the goals is that in the end, you have the strength to be completely open to Sarah. That there is no secret between you two. You have to trust her. Right now Sarah isn't here. So to train it I have to be the substitute. Do not worry. I won't laugh or do anything disrespectful. I promise."

Brad nodded after a moment. Despite reaching a decision he blushed. "My little guy is-"

"Saluting," finished Miss Kirin for him. "Don't worry. That is quite normal. Just now a lot of blood rushed through your system. Some of it was bound to end up down there. That doesn't mean you have a fetish for wearing girly stuff. It could as well be the excitement of the moment itself. And honestly, I could tell you for your chances with Sarah it wouldn't make a difference if you have or have not such a fetish."

She took a moment to muster him. Sure enough he looked like he had been through a lot today. But she also saw a hint more of self-confidence. Not much. Maybe not even enough that Brad noticed. "Well done Brad. So far I am glad I took a chance with you. I think that is enough for now. Time to head home wouldn't you say so too?"

Brad nodded. The relief may be a little too evident on his face.

It had been a week since Miss Kirin had started haunting him. If someone might even call it like that. Most of it played out normally. The only difference was that he wore panties to school. Not every day. Wednesday was his P.E. class. Every other day he wore his new undergarments. Slowly his nervousness settled.

Most of his time at home he spends it with only the company of Miss Kirin. As usual, his parents were away. They spend weeks away on their various travels. Be it for pleasure or work. They had a hired maid, but she was usually done and gone by the time Brad arrived home after school.

He had to admit it was nice to have Miss Kirin around. She often talked about things of the past. It made the big house not such a lonely place to be.

Saturday was the first day a new lesson awaited him.

"I bet you rarely visit this room," jibed Miss Kirin as they entered the small laundry room.

"More like never," admitted Brad.

"Well, this will change. To be completely available to Sarah means not only to be sexually available. I hope you realized that."

Brad gave her a strong nod and satisfied she continued. "By now you have worn every pantie you bought. Time to clean them. That might be a skill that could impress Sarah. I think we both know Sarah has the potential to become big in this world. As a good partner, you should be able to support her in every way. That includes leading a household. Starting with how to clean dirty panties."

"I can do that," he replied with conviction. Miss Kirin gave him a bright genuine smile. It looked more and more that she had chosen wisely.

Slowly she explained the steps how to wash delicate clothes by hand.

Right in the middle, he turned to ask her a question. "Part of leading a household means I have to learn cooking too, right?"

Miss Kirin raised an eyebrow. "Of course. Is that a problem?"

"No," Brad quickly corrected. "It is just that my previous tries didn't end well."

"So you are interested in it? That is good, but why did they end badly? Surely your mother or father have taught you a few things."

Brad gave a heavy sigh. "No. In fact, I barely see them. They are always traveling. You could say I have a better connection to my teachers at school than to my own parents."

"I am sorry to hear that," Miss Kirin said with sympathy.

"If I am being honest, in the last week with you, Miss Kirin, felt more as a mother to me than my own," Brad admitted. Miss Kirin saw his wet eyes for a moment before he turned away ashamed.

"Hearing that makes me sad, but also very proud. If I could I would hug you right now. But as a ghost, I have a little trouble with that."

That elicited a small laugh out of Brad. Slowly the heavy moment cleared and they returned to the laundry.

* * * * * * * * * *

Once again Brad found himself at the department store.

"So what humiliating item do I have to buy today?" Brad whispered to Miss Kirin.

"Remember. The humiliation is only a tool we use. One that quickly seems to lose its purpose," she said with a chuckle.

A moment later they arrived at the lingerie section again.

"This time we go full out on the underwear. If mere panties don't faze you anymore then overkill it is. Stockings, garters, pantyhose, bras, and corsages. If we can hide it beneath your regular clothes it is fair game. Oh, look. You turned so pale one might think you are the undead out of the both of us. Granted if the people around us could see me."

Brad had to swallow hard. Wearing panties was one thing. Even buying those wasn't as bad as he had thought. But his new filled shopping list proved to be a whole new challenge. All the while he had to remind himself for whom he was enduring all this. Slowly his shopping basket was filled with lacy things.

"May I help you, sir? You look a little lost." Brad nearly jumped as a salesperson managed to sneak up on him. Brad's mind raced to come up with a reply but was cut short when sales clerk continued. "Oh, let me see. Does the Kappa Delta Tau frat do their famous pledging trials?"

Brad was stumped. Was she thinking he was old enough to be a student? He spared a glance at Miss Kirin who gave him an amused smile. "No," he admitted. "I do this to prove myself to a girl." Brad didn't know exactly why he didn't take the obvious way out.

"And these are for you and not for the girl?" the sales clerk asked. Her smile never wavering, but he could hear a curious undertone.

"Well, it is a challenge. Sort of," he stated. "Can't exactly ask her to wear something like this without knowing how to deal with the bothersome aspects. And if I do this I might as well do it right." It wasn't exactly a lie he told himself. There was some truth to his statement. Just the furthest away he could think of.

"What dedication. I am sure the girl is a lucky one. Well, in that case, we should go take your measurements. You don't want to appear sloppy in your grand romantic gesture, right?" the lady beamed. No hint of if she really believed him. Brad guessed this was the difference between amateur and professional.

"Well done," was Miss Kirin's compliment when he followed the salesperson to a changing room.

* * * * * * * * * *

"Stop it," Miss Kirin admonished him.

Brad's hand twitched away from his chest. A moment before he had scratched an itch under the bra he was wearing. Of course, Miss Kirin had made him wear the newly purchased underwear. New panties. A garter belt that was for now without stockings. And a bra. The sales clerk had even pushed some small false inserts onto him. Looking in the mirror he could barely see the dent they made in his shirt. Nobody would suspect, but he was very aware of them.

"So this is my new day to day wardrobe?" he asked after munching on some leftover fries. Once again they had chosen to sit at the food court after their shopping.

"Yes. Don't worry. It is not permanently. As you said. It is a challenge. Now if you are done with your meal we have another stop to make."

Brad swallowed hard. What else had Miss Kirin in store for him now? Then again he was determined to face every challenge. He quickly cleared away his tablet. As he followed Miss Kirin they soon stood before their destination. "A beauty salon?" he asked flabbergasted.

"Of course, my dear. This is less a challenge and more a lesson. No, you are not to get a girly makeover. We are here to get you all polished up and refined. Don't you think Sarah deserves a partner that takes care of himself?"

"Yes, you are right," admitted Brad.

"Just tell them you want to look good for a job interview. They will take care of you," Miss Kirin.

Brad nodded to himself and stepped confidently into the salon.

* * * * * * * * * *

He felt refreshed when he stepped out of the beauty salon an hour later. Overall it hadn't been that bad. He still looked like himself. Just a little crisper.

"Looks like someone cleans up nicely," commented Miss Kirin.

"Thanks, I guess. I feared worse. It was actually pretty nice and soothing. The only irritating was the girl who tried to sell me permanent hair extensions," Brad openly admitted.

Miss Kirin gave him a snicker."Well, if you wanted to avoid that you shouldn't have flashed your bra at her."

"I didn't," Brad quickly interjected.

"Remember when you leaned back so she could wash your hair? It pushed your chest out and in turn the bra against your shirt. It wasn't very obvious, but the girl must have noticed," Miss Kirin explained.

"Oh damn!" Brad exclaimed.

"Speaking of your chest. Along with the rest of your body, it could use some tweaking. It's time we get you to do some physical training," Miss Kirin added before Brad's mind quelled too long on the shocking reveal.

"That doesn't sound so bad," Brad agreed.

"Of course, it is also a good opportunity to wear your new sports bras," Miss Kirin needled. Earning her a roll of Brad's eyes.

* * * * * * * * * *

"Excuse me, Mister Cooper?" The maid had knocked on his room's door.

Brad put away his homework for a minute."Yes, Anna?"

"I just wanted to ask if ... Am I being fired?" the maid asked with a slight quiver in her voice.

Brad frowned in confusion. "No. Not that I know of. What makes you think that?"

"Well, Mister Cooper. Some of my usual workloads are already done. There must be another maid at work here."

"No," Brad sheepishly admitted. "That was me. I recently tried to become more self-dependent. That's why I did some work around the house."

"That is good to know. I must admit you gave me quite the scare Mister Cooper," the Maid replied.

After some more assuring that her job was safe, the maid left and Brad was alone. Or so it would seem to an outsider.

"Busted! Well, you handled the situation quite good. Although you missed an opportunity," Miss Kirin commented.

"And what opportunity might that be?" asked Brad with a weary grin on his face. By now he was used to the slight needling Miss Kirin so enjoyed.

"Well, she could have given you private lessons on how to wash your female undies."

"I think I have proven that I can take care of that. As well, as every other chore, you seemed fitting as a challenge. You might as well demand next of me to dress up as a maid because Anna is right. I might as well be the other one in the house," Brad shot back and couldn't help to give a smug smile.

"No. That wouldn't accomplish anything. It probably wouldn't even faze you for long. If it even does. In some regard it is impressive. You took every challenge and lesson and plowed right through it. Yet it makes the progress to expand your submissive side harder. Besides the clothes and the chores, you cleaned up well. Even your personal grooming comes along."

Brad blushed slightly. He was well aware that Miss Kirin didn't just mean the work on his face and hair. For two weeks now he wore daily the full ensemble of female underwear. Stockings included. He quickly found out how the small hairs on his legs could be nipped and pulled. The solution proposed by Miss Kirin had been a quite simple one: just shave them off. He wouldn't admit it aloud, but he quite liked the feeling of the stockings on his smooth skin. To his luck, Miss Kirin hadn't asked him about that yet. Part of the deal was that Brad is totally open with his feelings and had to share everything if asked. Then again maybe she didn't need to ask. Brad wouldn't put it past Miss Kirin to completely see through him.

"So what is the next step?" he asked.

"Now we are in a tight spot. We are in an area where I have a harder time to teach you. That is as long as I only can order you, but can't do a more hands-on approach. If you are willing to spend some money there are other options."

Brad nodded along. It made sense. To only have her voice in his ears was quite limiting. "Well, my parents are rich and my allowance is quite high. What do you have in mind?"

Miss Kirin gave him a mischievous grin. "One option would be to look for a teacher that can handle the physical aspects. There are some professionals out there that are trained for just that. I think the currently used name for them is Dominas."

"That wouldn't work," interjected Brad. "I am still a minor for a few more months."

"Good point. Well, in that case, there is a slightly more expensive option-"

* * * * * * * * * *

Brad pushed the buzzer and hoped someone would open soon. He didn't like being in this backstreet. It all reminded him too much of the time when he purchased the enchanted present for Sarah. An Item that hadn't been exactly legal.

Now he stood before the door of a specialty shop. Not some backstreet dealer. Still, he was nervous as his intended purchase was just as illegal.

The door opened with a squeak of hinges that haven't seen a drop of oil in years. A shifty looking man eyed Brad wearily. "What do you want?" the shopkeeper croaked.

"I am here to purchase a certain material for a friend," Brad replied. Unwilling to let himself to be discouraged.

"Look boy. What we sell here ain't cheap," the shopkeeper replied and moved to close the door.

"I am well aware," Brad hastily said. "I have the money. But if you don't want the business there are other shops."

"Okay. Okay. Come in." The shopkeeper opened the door wide and Brad could finally enter.

The shop itself was mostly a temporary storage and it looked like it. Many shelves stood in neat rows. Filled with various goods. Brad saw trinkets and raw materials alike.

"So, my young friend. What are you looking for?"

"Komoro crystals. I know you have some in stock worth fifty thousand. I take them all," Brad replied confidently. To emphasize it he put a manilla envelope on the counter.

"Now listen, boy. Those crystals can be dangerous. Especially the refined and unbound you ask for. Do you know what they can do? They-"

Brad quickly cut him off. "They're a medium that Necromancers use to strengthen their abilities and summoned spirits. Unbound crystals are dangerous because roaming spirits can use them to interact with the world of the living. I am well aware. I want them for a friend who is a Necromancer," he stated confidently. More so than he felt.

All the points he just made were true, but also facts he only repeated. Miss Kirin had told him everything he needed to know. Not just about the crystals. He knew details about the shop too. Sadly the shop was shielded and warded off, so Miss Kirin couldn't help him right now. This was all on him.

"Then you should know it is illegal to sell them to not qualified people," the shopkeeper added smugly.

"Good thing then that I have all the necessary documents here. A copy of them in fact. You can check them and keep them. Provided I get the crystals," Brad said equally smugly. He placed a second envelope on the counter. Filled with the required documents. Further five thousand in bills.

The shopkeeper looked and then grunted. "Remain here," Brad was warned. The shopkeeper walked at a slow pace to somewhere between the shelves. When he came back he had a solid looking satchel with him. "Don't open it without a necromancer," the shopkeeper reminded him.

"I know. Satchel is warded and once open the seal breaks," Brad replied.

"Was a pleasure doing business with you. Come again," the shopkeeper said with a slimy smile.

Brad nodded as he grabbed the satchel. Time to get away from here.

"We have the crystals. Why are we in a hardware store now instead of being at home and testing them?" Brad wanted to know.

"To teach you patience," admonished Miss Kirin. She led him straight to a shelf with spools of rope. "Do you know how to choose a good rope?" she asked Brad.

"No. I don't even know for what purpose we need them," he admitted confused but curious.

"Well, the purpose I demonstrate you later. I promise you that. For now, you have to judge which rope is best. We are looking for one that is synthetic for now. Look for one that has the diameter of your pinkie or slightly smaller. Yes, like that one. Now we try to judge how the friction is. Take a length of it and lay it over your hand. Slightly close over it and pull the rope slowly out of your grip. The warmer your skin feels the higher the friction. High friction can be good, but not for our purpose this time. Try finding one with low friction and is tightly braided."

It took Brad quite a while to follow the instructions and judge the available ropes. In the end, he settled on a dark blue synthetic rope with maybe a quarter of an inch in diameter.

It was tightly braided and quite solid at its core. 60 feet of it ended up in his shopping cart. It quickly got company with some special scissors, a thick sewing thread the same color as the robe, and a sewing kit.

After paying they headed home and Brad was eager to find out what exactly was in store for him.

* * * * * * * * * *

"Okay. The coast is clear," announced Miss Kirin. She had made a last sweep through the area to make sure she was the only ghost around.

"You want me to open it now?" Brad asked. He held the satchel close that contained the Komoro crystals.

"Yes, empty the satchel on your bed and then step back," she instructed him.

He complied and emptied five elongated hexagonal crystals on his bed cover. For a moment nothing happened. Then one started to glow and pulse in a light varying between red and purple. It slowly started to float and to spin around itself. A second one reacted and joined the first one a moment later in a dance around themselves. Gradually they moved closer and closer until they finally touched. A bright light erupted and Brad heard a sound that reminded him of two snowballs pushed into each other. When the light dialed back a single crystal remained. Flawless and the size of both previous crystals combined. Another crystal started to float and the spectacle repeated itself. Soon all of the five crystals had fused into a big dim glowing single one.

"I told you I learned some tricks," Miss Kirin told him with a smirk.

"And now you can touch things?" Brad wanted to know.

"Let's find out, shall we?" she said with an amused smile. Leisurely she walked over and let one of her fingers trace Brad's cheekbone. He could feel it. Not just the cold feeling he had expected. He felt the slight dent in his skin as her fingertip traveled. It wasn't as uncomfortable as he imagined. His mind had anticipated the coldness of an ice-cube. Instead, he got the chilly caress of a raindrop running down his face.

"That felt strange," he admitted.

"Well, you will feel stranger things. But for now, we have some crafting to do," Miss Kirin told him with a mischievous smile.

Their little crafting project involved the rope. They cut it to specific lengths. Then they used the needle and thread to secure the frayed ends of the rope pieces.

"Good," Miss Kirin commented when they were done. They both sat on Brad's bed. The many lengths of rope between them. "Now the fun part can begin."

Brad watched intently as Miss Kirin picked up a length of rope and skillfully found the middle. She then used the point to fold it into a length of double thickness. Brad could tell, even without her saying it, that she had done this before. The familiarity and confident movement told him that it was an often practiced skill. He also saw her elated mood.

Of course, his mind also came to the conclusion for what the intended use was for these ropes. "You will use these to tie me up, right?" he asked with certainty.

"Smart boy. You are right, but can you tell me why?" she challenged him.

"As a challenge? To endure physical discomfort?" Brad guessed.

"Ahh, there you are thoroughly wrong. Don't worry. At first many get it wrong. Tell me why do you think someone would let themselves be tied up?"

"I am not sure. Maybe they get pleasure out of it?"

"For some, sure. But not everyone. At least in the traditional sense. Some like it for the discomfort or the signification of their submissive status. Others enjoy the suspense of responsibility as they give all of it away to the person who ties them up. No matter what the reason they all have one thing in common. They have to give their consent to being tied up. At least if you want to stay legal. Now in order for a dominant person to get the consent of a submissive person, there is always one thing needed."

"Trust," came Brad's guess.

"Correct. Trust is always needed. It is won the hard way and is easily lost. Trust itself can differ. If you are in a private setting then you trust your partner. If it's a professional then your trust in their professional image. Which brings us to you. Yes, I want you to feel and learn how it feels to be powerless. How uplifting it can be to give up your freedom, even if it is only for a short while. But most of all I want to give you something I think you lacked for quite some time now. Tell me honestly, besides me, who would you trust enough to tie you up?"

An uncomfortable silence settled as Brad thought about persons he knew. Judged them step by step. In the end, he remained silent.

It was Miss Kirin who spoke up first. "There are none, right? There are some you would like to trust. Your parents maybe? It is hard to trust someone who is barely around. I guess Sarah is on that list too. The crush for whom you endured so much. Yet you don't know her well enough. Besides those, the pickings are slim. Come. Hold your hands up like this."

She held her arms and hands straight away from her chest. Both parallel and close together. When Brad did as he had been told Miss Kirin picked up the rope and started her work. She placed a small loop near one of his wrists and then started to wrap the rope around his wrists. It wasn't tight like he expected. In fact between his wrists was a good two inches of space. After five windings neatly coiled around his wrists she suddenly changed her pattern. Instead of wrapping the rest around him she wound it around the strands that connected his wrists. It pulled those parallel strands together and in turn tightened the slack between his wrists. A moment later he felt his hands thoroughly secured. There was only a small slack left as both of his wrists were connected by the stiff coil of rope.

"Now, we are nearly done," Miss Kirin told him. She held up with one hand the loop she had placed aside earlier and with the other the rest of the rope. Around four feet in length.

"If I use both of these, I can bind a knot that effectively binds your hands and makes them useless. Without the knot, you probably could slide out pretty fast. These are synthetic ropes after all. Now is the time to decide. Do you trust me enough to risk this? Being helpless in my hands?"

His eyes were riveted at her hands. In a moment she could give the rope slack and set him free or tie a knot and seal his fate. Yet her hands remained unwavering and steady above his wrists. Could he trust her? Over the past weeks they had often talked and Miss Kirin seemed to be an infinite supply of stories, wisdom, and teachings. Yet, he realized, he still hardly knew any facts about her. He knew that so far she had kept her word, but would her path really led to him getting together with Sarah? She had been the carrot on a stick for him the whole time. In the end, he came to a conclusion. He didn't trust her completely. Just enough to take yet another leap of faith.

"I trust you. Do it. Please tie the knot," he said with conviction.

"Very well," Miss Kirin replied in a muted, but cheery way. The knot tightened the ropes further. Seemingly taking away the rest of the slack. A small amount remained, but Brad knew it was not enough to escape.

"Helpless, but not as helpless as you think. You see a submissive holds more power than most realize. It is their consent that gives the foundation. You and every other one has the right to withdraw it. To do so you need a safeword. One that lets me know if it is going too far or if there are some physical problems. Think of one thing that you connect with the feeling of being safe."

Brad had to think long and hard. Nothing came to his mind. There was not a thing that made him instinctively associate it with safety. It took some thinking till he found a word that most would associate with protection. "I think I go with *shield*."

"Shield it is," confirmed Miss Kirin. "Now the most important part of a safeword is that we both know it works. On the side of the submissive, it is hard to judge. Hence the need for trust. But the dominant also needs to trust that the submissive will use it. Brad, I want to make this clear. To use or not use a safeword is not a challenge. There is no shame in using it. But there is shame in failing to use it. Got that?"

Brad nodded.

"Well then, let's get started. After all, we still have a lot of rope left," Miss Kirin said as she pulled the rope's end that held the knot to the headboard of Brad's bed. Putting aside the ropes, she made space for him to lay on his bed.

One rope found it's spot around his ankle and it pulled it aside as it was wound around a bedpost. The other ankle followed soon after. She let him stew for a few minutes. Letting him test his limits of the restrictions imposed by the ropes. The was a slight give, but not much. He was thoroughly caught in her web of ropes.

After ten minutes she removed the first rope around his wrists, only to redo them individually. He felt quite helpless, yet felt no danger. She always made sure he was as comfortable as he could get given the circumstances.

Another ten minutes later she untied his legs. He was instructed to cross them like if he was sitting in a lotus position. Each foot on the other leg's knee. A few ropes later and he couldn't uncross them even if he wanted too.

Slowly she added another rope around his chest. He wasn't sure what it was for as it didn't restrict him further even with it being snug. The purpose became clear soon after. Miss Kirin untied his arms only to tightly bind them to his chest. Using the harness made of rope as the fixing point.

She left him like this for a few moments. Not tied down to anything, but with all of his limbs made useless there was no need. All he could was wiggle slightly. Soon she took even that by using one rope to connect his chest harness to the ropes around his legs. With a steady pull, she made him fold like a clam until his legs touched the arms. A knot later he was a human ball. Robbed of even the slightest movement.

* * * * * * * * * *

Brad rubbed his wrists and made sure that the marks of the ropes couldn't be seen. He had been surprised how quick Miss Kirin was able to undo her work. In under a minute he was free of every rope. She advised him to take it slow. Just to be safe.

At first, he was more surprised that their session had ended so quickly. Of course, Miss Kirin had a good reason. His parents had come home. A whole week too early.

Now, not even two hours later, he sat at the dinner table. Lazily he picked at his food. This was typical for his parents. They spend all their time traveling and amassing money. Once home they order takeout. Brad sighed. He had offered to cook. Eager to show off what he had learned in the past weeks. They had looked if he had grown a third eye and then blandly ignored his suggestion.

As much as they traveled one might think there was a lot to talk about. Yet their talking had stopped not long ago. The silence that had settled over the room that was all too familiar to him. Sometimes he wondered why they even had him in the first place. He was hardly part of their life. Practically living alone if it wasn't for the maid. This thought made him nearly jump as he had an epiphany. He might as well live alone.

"Father, I have been thinking," Brad started. "You always told me it was important for you to stand on your own feet. To be your own man. I think I have to do the same. I would like your permission to move out."

Brad's heart was beating hard as he expected arguments against his decision. Yet none came. His parents pretty much rolling over. They even agreed to his suggestion for a private tutor and on leaving public school. He chose not to tell them that the private tutor was undead. Then again they probably wouldn't have cared either way.

In the end, he got his wish. Documents signed by them allowing him to move out and renting an apartment, as well as papers for the school. It had been easy. Too easy. Shouldn't they be more concerned? Question his motives more? He felt sad, but most of all he felt disappointed.

As he entered his room he saw Miss Kirin nearby. He half expected her to praise him. On the other hand, she might be disappointed that he hadn't confronted them more.

"I know you deserve more," was all she said. Pulling him into a hug. He didn't mind that she was cold as a corpse. Just glad there was someone there that cared. Someone who understood. Not surprising was that the hug lasted very long.

* * * * * * * * * *

Brad swiped away the sweat after emptying the last box from moving. It had all happened so fast. Finding the small apartment in the artistic part of the city. Packing up his stuff and realizing he hadn't that much, to begin with. He remembered all the teasing in school. The rich kid that could have anything. Yet here he was. Hardly anything of note.

Looking around he somehow felt proud. His own flat. Already furnished as the previous renter hadn't bothered to clean out. The landlord happy to have a new renter who didn't mind the stuff.

Exhausted, but happy, he let himself fall into the armchair he now owned.

"What are you searching for?" he asked his private tutor, Miss Kirin. She was busy surfing the web. After gaining the ability to touch she started to spend a lot of time on the web. Once Brad had asked how a century-old ghost was so good at using a computer. Promoting a long lecture about how being dead doesn't equal to being stuck in the past. That you could still learn and become better at things.

"Class stones. I think it is time that you switch yours," she calmly replied.

That got Brad's attention. It was a decision he had put off for now. Something he could have done for nearly two years. His parents had given him an account for just this purpose. The enormity that he had about a half million sometimes was heavy on his mind. It was a big responsibility to choose the right class. Did Miss Kirin know about that account? While he trusted her a lot he chose to not divulge it for now.

"A class change? Do you have some in mind? They are pretty expensive, so I am kind of curious. What type of class do you think would be good for me?" he asked.

Miss Kirin turned around and gave him her full attention. "I am looking for two specific classes. One of them is perfect for you or rather it is perfect for you in your quest to conquer Sarah's heart. It is called the Majune class and is a monk-like class. Luckily this class won't be as expensive as you think."

A monk? That was curious. He heard stories of dedicated monks who stood out in certain areas. Some were quite religious. For a short moment, he saw himself at Sarah's feet praying at her like a goddess. The mere thought made him smirk a little.

"If it is a good class why would it be cheap?" he asked intrigued.

"Well, as most monk classes it thrives on dedication. Dedication takes time and in modern times that is a commodity that becomes more valuable by each year. Let me tell you a little about the Majune class. Did you know that the world record holders for highest strength, stamina, and dexterity are all held by a person with the Majune class?"

Brad shook his head and motioned for her to continue.

"You can look it up yourself. In fact, I insist you research the class by yourself later. Now then. Before I continue let me ask you: do you know that Sarah had been held hostage a few months back?" Miss Kirin asked.

"I heard she was trapped in a building with a lot of others. But I don't know any details," he admitted.

"Well, long story short Sarah and her mothers escaped their cage. They chose to stay and fight instead of fleeing. While posing as a formidable threat to the kidnappers, in a critical moment the fight came to a stop. You see one of the enemies managed to breach their defenses and take Sarah hostage again at gunpoint. Well, knife tip to be exact. Do you know why that happened?"

Brad shrugged his shoulders. He had no clue how serious the situation had been.

"Sarah has grown to quite the talented Necromancer, but like most mage classes she has a weakness. One that I shared in my lifetime too. Physical weakness. If she had more dexterity she could have maybe avoided getting caught. More strength and she could have broken the hold on her."

"So as Majune I could be her counterpart?" Brad asked. "Giving her support in the areas she lacks?"

"Yes, but not quite like the way you think. As much as I hope you and her come together, you still can't be always by her side. A Majune can support her even when not around. You see Majune's can transfer part of their physical stats or attributes if you so will. You could literally strengthen her even when you are not around. But here is the thing: as every class that has an overpowered ability it has an equal weakness. Namely that the stats are transferred. What she gains you would lose. It would be temporary, but a hindrance to your own life nonetheless."

Brad needed a moment to stomach it. Become weak so someone else grows strong. In a way, it was submitting to someone too. It reminded him of something Miss Kirin had said weeks before. "The ultimate gift," he said aloud.

"Ah. So you remember. Good. However, there is more to the Majune class. Most of the physical stats are determined by your muscles. Now, what do you think happens if you transfer your physical stats?" Miss Kirin challenged him.

"Oh, they would atrophy, right? Muscles physically reflect the strength stat and vise versa."

"You would think so, but no, they do not. The normal system, for the lack of a better word, glitches. Majune's keep their physical bulk even if their stats are below what is warranted. The same counts for their targets. Their stats are higher, but their physical build doesn't reflect it. Now here comes the real rule breaking of the class. Their muscles can regain their stats through training. Up to their previous level. If they undo their transfer they suddenly have more than they had before. Of course, that un-glitches the muscles and they try to mediate with their stats. Resulting in rapid muscle growth in a few days. Of course, a Majune can simply transfer the overhang again together with some of their retrained stats."

"So they can slowly build up enormous stats," Brad mused.

"Provided they are dedicated enough. That's why they are technically a monk class," Miss Kirin confirmed.

"Is that why you had me train more the last few weeks?" Brad wanted to know.

"Correct. Not so much for stats gain for now. More for getting used to training in general. You see one of the more frustrating parts of a Majune is that with glitched muscles you don't see progress and with each new transfer you start anew. Someone with a weak will might give up easily."

Brad nodded. It was a very intriguing class, but he could see how others might judge it as not desirable. It required a lot of work, but after weeks of steeling himself in body and mind, he was certain he could make it. There was, however, one other thing on his mind.

"You said you are looking for two classes. If the Majune class is so perfect why look for another class?"

"Ah. Well. That is complicated. It is more of a favor to ask of you. There is another undesirable class that is very powerful, but very hard to master. I should know. After all the class was named after me. Yet even I could never unlock its full potential. I would be very grateful for the opportunity to try again."

"But how can that be? You are a ghost," Brad pointed out.

"Yes, I am. But I am not really dead. I told you before. Ghosts are just trapped in a very undesirable class. One that lacks the ability to interact with things. But in recent years three spirits so far found their way back. All that was needed was a specific crystal of high quality and a class stone."

Brad glanced at the Komoro crystal slowly pulsing on a nearby shelf. So there had been a hidden motive. As if she could read his mind Miss Kirin continued. "Of course, once I am back as a living being, I can look for work and pay you back. Not just for the class stone, but also for the crystals. I know that is a lot to ask. Please promise me to think about it."

"I will," he promised. "But what makes you sure you will find work?"

"Oh believe me a sorceress with over three hundred years experience is hard to come by. Even with me being most of the time sort of dead. If we find my old class then it will be a whole different thing. Back then I managed with that class to defeat half an army."

"What happened to the other half?" Brad teased.

"What do you think killed me in the end?" she replied seriously.

That made Brad hesitate for a moment. There were clearly some aspects of her he hadn't a grasp on yet. "I think I need time. That is all a lot of information to take in."

"I understand," she replied. "Don't forget to research and check the facts." She vanished to who knows where and left Brad alone to think.

"Finally," Brad nearly yelled. It took him a week to track down the Majune class. It looked like a store on the outskirts of the town had one.

This was at least something he had found. The web had been sparse on information about the Majune class. The only concrete information was that it existed and lost popularity about seventy years ago. This at least he found out thanks to websites dealing with world records. Miss Kirin was right. The record holders for stamina, strength, and dexterity were all held by Majune. Unbeaten for over ninety years. In his mind, he already saw himself breaking those records. After all the current record holders were women. He should have a slight advantage with his male body, right?

He informed Miss Kirin and together they drove down to the shop. It looked respectable and in the league of high-end jewelry stores. On his way in he was inspected for hidden weapons and magical contraptions. Good thing they had left the Komoro crystal at home.

As they passed the front door a sudden pressure build up around him. Security wards. Judging by the length he had to endure it there were many and strong ones too. He was relieved as he saw Miss Kirin emerge with him. It looked like none of the wards targeted spirits.

The interior was spacious and held several counters inside. Propped up behind glass he saw dozens of class stones. Many with a decorative background to illustrate their class.

A salesman hurried to greet them and Brad had to fight off to wince. It was one of those slimy ones he sometimes had to deal with if he accompanied his parents. An occasion thankfully rare. He didn't like these overdressed brownnosers and their fake smiles.

"Young Sir. How may I help?"

Brad had to suppress rolling with his eyes. "Your online stock lists one Majune class stone. I am also curious if you can help me get another specific class stone."

"Majune? That class does not ring a bell, but let me check our inventory real quick. Ah yes, there it is. You are aware that this class is on the undesirable classes list?"

"I am well aware," Brad replied and tried not to sound too tense. People like him exploit weaknesses like that if given the chance.

"Good. Good. Now, what is the name of the second class?"

"The Kirin sorceress class."

Brad saw the salesperson frown. Not a good sign. Even if it was most likely some kind of act. "Sir, store policy is that I must warn you. The Kirin class is not only on the undesirable index, it is also flagged as one of the top uncontrollable classes known to mankind. I must implore you to look for another class."

"The class stone is for a friend. She had the class before and she can handle it. Can you get it?" Brad was a little wound up. If it hadn't been for Miss Kirin signaling to calm down, he might have said regrettable things.

"I am afraid not," the clerk announced after doing some search query on his stylish pad. "But we do have other excellent sorceress classes to chose from-"

"Not interested," Brad cut him off. "It will be just the Majune class then."

"Of course." The guy hurried into the back room and came out with a small simple box. As he opened it Brad could see the stone. No velvet underground for that one. "That will be twelve thousand."

"Your store lists it online for seven thousand," Brad threw in.

"That must be a mistake. We usually sell undesirable class stones to a research company. If you want the stone you have to beat their price."

"There might be a company out there that does buy undesirable class stones. But not for over seven thousand. Such mistakes do not happen in stores like this," Brad insisted. He hated it to be underestimated just because he was young.

"Well, our store also has a reputation to uphold. Selling low worth stones would taint it. Maybe we can meet halfway. If you buy any sorcerer class from our main stock I'll throw in the Majune stone for free."

Brad wanted to curse. Slimy little weasel. Of course, the main stock was proper classes. The cheapest class he could see was for two hundred thousand. He pretended to think about it and looked to Miss Kirin. She too was looking like deep in thought.

Finally, she looked up and pointed at one of the displayed stones. "I'll promise I'll pay you back, but it might take longer to do so. It is a risk. Your decision."

Slowly Brad started nodding. "That one over there, but the price-"

Not willing to simply give up he started to haggle till the price was down to one hundred and eighty thousand. He used the bank account his parents specifically set up for him when he was ready for a class. That they were good at. Giving money. On any other front, they lacked a lot. When he collected the two stones he was once again stopped by the sales clerk.

"Sir, one last thing. You should know the Majune class is listed as fem-"

"I am well aware of every aspect," Brad cut him off. He didn't mind lying to escape this shop.

* * * * * * * * * *

Brad was giddy on his way home. Earning him a few rolling eyes from Miss Kirin. Once inside he placed the purchased items on the coffee table in his small living room. It was an uneven match. On one side the Majune class stone in its simple wooden box. Beside it was the small pile of the sorceress class stone. Complete with manual, two books on the class, and vouchers for free lessons at a local training school.

"Brad. Sit down before you walk a trench into the floor. I know you are eager to get started, but I ask you to be patient."

Miss Kirin was right and he let himself fall into the worn out armchair.

Once being seated Miss Kirin came close and looked him in the eyes. "I know this is what you waited for in a long time, but I must ask you to wait a little longer. This class stone is the right choice. I am very sure of it. But. There is always the small chance not working out. I promise that no matter what happens I'll be there for you. To make sure I can I ask you to wait for a few days. Let me change classes. Return to the living and then find a job. Once I am sure I can properly support you it will be time. Okay?"

Brad was a little confused by her words, but he reasoned caution would be a wise choice. Reluctantly he nodded. "Okay. So. In order to get my turn, you have to change. So go ahead."

She gave him a proud smile before turning towards the small pile on the table. The stone was unwrapped quickly and then Miss Kirin placed the Komoro crystal beside it. "Here goes nothing," she said. Brad wasn't sure if it was to herself or to him.

The glow of the crystal intensified as Miss Kirin took up the stone and concentrated. Strange noises came from the crystal as lines of fractures appeared on it. As the crystal burst, the class stone in her hand disappeared.

Brad didn't know what shocked him more. The sudden self-destructing crystal or the solid thump as Miss Kirin fell on her butt and started to swear worse than a sailor. The situation quickly turned hilarious as Brad realized that Miss Kirin had trouble standing up. He guessed ghosts tend to forget a lot. For example, that gravity existed or how to use their legs.

* * * * * * * * * *

Once Miss Kirin relearned to walk again she was very busy. She got the government to recognize her as alive again and managed to find a well-paying job. All within two weeks.

Despite her swift action, Brad was impatient. He felt ready after enduring so much. His will and body steeled. Many new skills learn. It was now or never. The last step before he could try courting Sarah again was to activate the small class stone in his hands.

"Alright. It's time," Miss Kirin told him. "You did read up on the Majune class, right?"

"Everything I could find on the web," replied Brad. Admittedly it wasn't much. Just enough to confirm it was a monk class and it could transfer stats like strength.

"Good. Then go ahead."

Brad didn't have to be asked twice. He channeled a tiny amount of mana into the stone and a moment later a great surge of power flooded his body.

Warmth and a pleasant tingle drowned out everything else. He barely noticed himself collapsing on the floor. When it eventually subsided Brad's heart was beating a mile a minute.

"Oh, my. You turned out splendidly."

Miss Kirin's comment brought him back. He had undergone a transformation. One he hadn't expected. With dread, his gaze wandered downward. "Holy shit! I am a girl?"

"Of course you are. The Majune class is female only. You told me you had researched the class."

Brad scampered to his feet with the help of the sorceress. "I did. I haven't read anything about a restriction." He simply had to see for himself how he looked.

What greeted him in the mirror was a girl next door pretty type of body. Far from flawless, but definitive a looker. His new skin was without blemish and a tad darker than usual around here. So his part southern heritage had carried over. Dark hair framed an attractive if a little uneven face. He saw his new wild roaming eyes that appeared to be gray with a hint of green. The pert nose and slightly puffy lips drew his gaze and contrasted against the slightly too thick and bushy brows.

His new neck and shoulders looked so slender compared to before. His gaze drifted down to his new chest. He didn't even dare to guess his cup size, but it looked to be a handful.

"Now I will never have a chance with Sarah," escaped a sorrowful whisper his soft lips.

"Oh far from it," Miss Kirin assured him while giving him a protective pat on the shoulder. "Your chances just skyrocketed. After all, I promised you to shape you into Sarah's ideal image of a partner."

With the shock of his changed body, Brad needed a few moments to process the implications. "Sarah is a lesbian?"

"Not exactly," Miss Kirin replied. She walked to the couch and sat down. Motioning to Brad to join her. After he sat down she continued. "The sexual orientation is for each person is determined in their teens. Some sooner and others later. Sarah's soul had a hard time deciding. Especially since her parents turned into a very active lesbian couple. Brad. You can help her come to terms with who she fancies. Boys or girls. To enable that for her will surely make her grateful towards you."

"But what if she decides that she likes boys?"

"Then we find a male-only class stone and turn you back. In fact, that is an option right now. You have to decide. Turn back or bridge the last stretch towards Sarah?"

Brad didn't have to think hard to choose. He had endured so much. Now he was determined to see it through. "At least now my underwear will fit better," he added dryly.

"Maybe. Maybe not. Let's find out. Come on. Strip. Time to get your measurements." When Brad hesitated she added. "Don't be shy. I have seen literally hundreds of naked girls and women in my lifetime."

"Don't you mean after your lifetime?" Brad nervously asked. When Miss Kirin remained silent he started to strip.

"If you want to be worthy of Sarah you have to get used to your new body," Miss Kirin said while measuring him. "That includes thinking of yourself as female too. I will get some clothes for you that fit. Meanwhile, I want you to come up with a few first name choices. It would be strange to continue calling you Brad when you look like this."

Brad nodded. It only made sense. Still, he wondered if he made the right decisions so far. Then again, now that he turned into a girl for Sarah he was determined to see it through to the end.

* * * * * * * * * * *

The girl was teasing herself. Dry humping the vibrator while her hands caressed the curves on her body. Again and again, she roamed over her flanks. Wound herself up by gently tracing her inner tights. Small needy moans escaped her lips.

It got all too much. She needed relief. Trembling fingers found the pulsing dick. She rolled onto her back and closed her eyes. The girl loved the next part. Was addicted to it. She gasped as the vibrating phallus parted her lips and was pushed deep inside of her. All too soon she arched her back in pleasure as an orgasm burst forth.

After catching her breath she opened her eyes and looked at the alarm clock on her bedside table. It told her that her session this time had taken just about three-quarters of an hour.

"A new record for you Bailey, isn't it?"

Bailey shot up as if bitten by a snake. At her door stood Miss Kirin with one of her enigmatic smiles on her lips.

"I see that you get used to your new you. Not just your new name," Miss Kirin.

Bailey - the name Brad had chosen - nodded. A blush spread across her face. The last week had been a revelation. Wearing female underwear was different when one possessed the intended body for them. To top it off she wore for the first time female clothes. Bailey had to admit she quite liked wearing dresses. It felt so liberating.

The workout had been hard, yet oddly rewarding. In just one week she already saw more muscles under her skin than he had as Brad. Even after his recent workouts and before his class change. Seeing her new body getting trim and fit was strangely sexy. Bailey still had a hard time accepting that this even was her body. It was an odd thought that the old Brad would have been attracted to this new body.

As rewarding the last week's workouts had been, her other training lessons made it pale in comparison. There was the ropeplay. A secret delight for her. It was meant to train her in being submissive and trusting. Which it did, but it also made her oh so horny. Miss Kirin hadn't commented about it, but Bailey was sure she had noticed.

Maybe that was the reason why a certain other training was always scheduled after ropeplay. One she had been doing right now. To get comfortable with her body - all aspects of it - Miss Kirin had insisted that Bailey learns about carnal pleasures. Of course, nothing was easy with Miss Kirin. So Bailey had to tease herself as long as possible before succumbing to the need for release. A task more devious and harder than she had thought possible.

"I am making progress," Bailey admitted.

"Good," Miss Kirin said with a smirk. "Then I guess it is time for something new. You might want to get dressed."

Blushing Bailey complied. Wondering what was in store for her now. "What aspect of being a woman do I get to learn now?"

"Oh you are doing splendidly on that front," Miss Kirin admitted. "No. Today you will take the first steps to mastering your class."

That made Bailey's heart beat faster. So far the Majune class had done nothing for Bailey. Aside from turning her into a girl. She knew that monk classes weren't flashy like others. Still, she itched to try the one gimmick that might prove herself to Sarah.

"So how do we start?" Bailey asked while slipping into a white summer dress.

"By transferring your stats of course," Miss Kirin replied. "Eventually the goal is to transfer them to Sarah. As she isn't here at the moment so I'll be her stand-in."

Bailey nodded. She had guessed as much.

"Now it took me a while, but I found an old training scroll for Majune. I already scanned it and translated it into our language," Miss Kirin said while holding up a print out.

"Why do I need a training scroll anyway?" Bailey asked. "I mean the ability should be native to my class."

"That is correct," Miss Kirin confirmed. "However, as with many monk classes, some abilities require a certain mindset while performing. A Majune without help would probably discover the proper way to do the transfer within a year or two. Luckily for us, the Majune class wasn't always as undesirable or unwanted as they are today. Back in the old days, it was researched and shortcuts had been found. One of these is this scroll. Now take a seat on the bed and read the scroll carefully."

Nodding Bailey complied while Miss Kirin dragged a chair nearby and sat down. The printout showed an old scroll with crudely photoshopped text overlaying ancient fading script. In the center was a diagram. Two persons and a complex visualization of energy flow. It showed an orb of energy above one person that get's split unevenly and the bigger part being dragged towards the second person.

The translated text pretty much explained the same. Bailey was to visualize her own physical attributes as an orb of energy. To part it and transfer one half of it to another person.

It took hours to form this orb in her mind. Bailey wondered why Miss Kirin didn't look frustrated. Bailey certainly was just that with herself. Pushing the thought away she concentrated on the orb again. Slowly creating an incision that she used as a starting point to saw it in half while dragging the halves apart. When the last thin thread was cut a wave of tiredness swept over Bailey. Thinking she might faint any moment she pushed one half towards Miss Kirin.

The moment the energy connected to her, Bailey collapsed on her bed. A few heartbeats passed before she realized that she hadn't blacked out.

"Well done Bailey," Miss Kirin praised her while taking her hand.

"Why do I feel so weak?" Bailey asked and shuddered as she couldn't suppress a slight mumbling.

"Take a look at your stats," Miss Kirin suggested while sitting down beside Bailey on the bed.

On her command, Bailey's status screen appeared. In it, she saw stats and numbers. All the class traits she had and other things that the universe thought immutable. "My physical stats. They are more than halved!"

"Yes," Miss Kirin agreed. "And mine got a substantial boost. Now, this weakness you feel is your lowered stamina along with your weakened strength. Try to take it slow and easy. No need to panic. Majune only transfers stats from non-essential muscles. Your heart and lungs are fine."

Bailey nodded, but a moment later her eyes grew wide. With panic, she tried to look down her body. However, her weakened body hindered her in doing so. Tears were dwelling in the corners of her eyes.

Worried Miss Kirin framed Bailey's head with her hands. Forcing eye contact she demanded to know. "What's wrong? I am here. You can tell me."

"I..." Bailey started but broke off. She needed a moment to gather her strength. "How can the class think that muscle is not important?"

Miss Kirin now inspected Bailey and found the source of her duress below her hips. A big wet spot matted Bailey's white dress. She had lost control of her bladder.

"Don't worry," Miss Kirin said in a soft voice. Gently sweeping some errant hairs out of Bailey's face. "This is temporary. No one is here, but us."

"Did you know this would happen?" Bailey asked with a quivering voice.

"I," Miss Kirin started only to break off. "No. I did not. But I worried it might be a side effect if one transferred a big percentage of their stats. Bailey, why did you give so much on your first try?"

Bailey's mind needed a moment to process it. Why had she? After all, she had followed the diagram of the scroll. Just like pictured she had halved the orb of energy. The sudden epiphany nearly made her curse. Of course. She had halved the ball and in turn, had halved her stats. If she had carved off less her loss of stats would be smaller too.

"I think I did take the diagram too literally. It showed half so I did half my stats too," Bailey explained. "How do I undo this?"

"I am sorry," Miss Kirin softly said. "All manuscripts I found on the topic said that new Majunes should wait a week or two before reverting. Else there might be complications. Don't worry. I will take care of you. You know that, right?"

Bailey nodded.

"That's my girl," Miss Kirin beamed. "Now let's get you out of this dress and cleaned up."

Bailey was strangely elated, hearing Miss Kirin say she was her girl. It made her feel proud and appreciated. It made her less humiliated when Miss Kirin stripped her of the dress.

Shortly after Bailey had been wiped dry, Miss Kirin lifted her up and carried her to a nice hot bath. When Bailey was done, she was carried back onto a freshly made bed.

"I have to run a few errands," Miss Kirin told her while tucking her in. "We need a few supplies for you. Now I need you to tell me honestly. In this week or two that you are stuck like this, do you want to continue your training or do you want a break? But to be honest there might be some opportunity here if you are willing to take it."

Bailey didn't have to think long. "We continue," she said firmly. After all, being stuck and doing nothing at all sounded worse than whatever Miss Kirin could cook up as a lesson plan.

"Be back soon," Miss Kirin said softly and gave Bailey a kiss on the forehead.

Maybe it was the lowered stamina or the many things that happened today, but it didn't take long for Bailey to fall asleep.

It was humiliating and embarrassing. Most of all Bailey felt ashamed that she kind of liked it. She breathed heavily as she calmed down after her last orgasm.

Here she was. One week into her weakened state. Maybe it had been a mistake accepting Miss Kirin's proposal to use this opportunity for training. Bailey knew how she looked. Ridicules with her adult diaper. But that one was necessary. Less so the little dress that made her look like a baby. Or the strange mix of ball gag and pacifier.

However, the most ridicules piece was her "rattle". It sensed motion and each shake meant there was a response. Hidden inside her diaper was a vibrator. One that only sprung to life if the rattle was being shaken. Miss Kirin's 'little fun idea' to entice Bailey to work out her arms.

To Bailey's embarrassment, it worked. She had dozens of orgasms in the last few days and had the regained strength points to show for it. Not many, but it was progress nonetheless.

As Bailey calmed down a voice surprised her.

"Isn't she cute?" Miss Kirin asked.

Bailey wondered who Miss Kirin was talking to and turned around on her bed. As she saw the person standing in the doorway beside Miss Kirin, her hands dropped the rattle and she tried to cover herself up.

"She is adorable!" Sarah - the target of Bailey's adoration - exclaimed.

"You'll have her for yourself in a moment," Miss Kirin said. "I can't thank you enough for babysitting her. Originally I wanted to wait until she is a little 'older'."

"She looks fine to me," Sarah said without ever taking her eyes off Bailey.

Meanwhile, Bailey's panic lessened a bit. Maybe this was Miss Kirin's plan after all. Introduce her to Sarah in a moment of weakness.

"Well, it can't be helped. It is the last day of the Verrencia exhibition."

"The Ifarian city that sinks into the sea?" Sarah managed to ask. She clearly was distracted.

Bailey wondered if she was supposed to join the conversation. Maybe if she unbuckled the gag. She just might have enough dexterity in her fingers to do so.

"Yes. That one. Can you believe they end the exhibition for one about some long gone mobster?"

"Buds Malone?"

"Might be. Who cares about some dead wannabe villain. Anyway, I see that I bore you."

Flushed Sarah looked finally at Miss Kirin. "No. It is just-"

"That I teased you for weeks about the progress of my little girl Bailey that you are quite eager to meet her," Miss Kirin volunteered. "Okay. I'll stop my teasing. Take good care of my baby girl. I'll be back in a few hours. Have fun and do a few things I wouldn't do."

Both left for a moment and soon only Sarah returned. Determined she walked over and sat down beside Bailey. She had a hungry look in her eyes and it made Bailey's heart beat faster. Sarah wanted her. Something that Bailey herself had wanted for years. Back then when she still had been Brad.

"So," Sarah cooed. "Brad became Bailey. Just for me?"

Bailey nodded. Her eyes never leaving Sarah's. This was it. The moment she had dreamed of. Yet never she had thought it would turn out this way.

"I wonder," Sarah started while she gently traced Bailey's body contours. "When Miss Kirin started preparing you for me, did you know it would lead to this?"

The question conflicted Bailey. Had she known she would end up as a girl in diapers at the mercy of Sarah? Certainly not. Then again she saw the hungry look in Sarah's eyes. It spoke of desire and that Miss Kirin had promised. To shape Brad into something Sarah would want. She had kept her promise and now Bailey wound herself under Sarah's soft administrations. Making up her mind, Bailey nodded.

Sarah gave her a bright smile. "And still you did it. Impressive. But you hesitated. Why? Ah, right. The gag."

Gently she made Bailey turn her head. Then unbuckled the gag. Spit flowed over Bailey's lips as the bulbous gag slid free of her teeth. Lovingly Sarah wiped the spit away. Patiently waiting for Bailey to gather her thoughts.

"I knew nothing," Bailey said after working her jaw a few times. "Miss Kirin wouldn't betray you by revealing your secrets. She told me that she could make me into the perfect partner for you. To be what you desire."

Bailey was silenced by a kiss. Greedy in her need Sarah forced an intimacy on Bailey she happily accepted. Relented into it without a fight or second thought.

A small eternity later Sarah broke the kiss and left Bailey yearning for more. "Oh, I desire you. No doubt about it," Sarah admitted. "But I guess I owe you the explanation."

"You don't have to," Bailey said but was hushed by Sarah.

"I want to. Need to. I want you to understand me like no one else does. Will you hear me out? Hear my secret thoughts."

"In pursuit of you I would do anything," Bailey vowed out loud.

"And you have proven as much," Sarah said with a smile. "The thing is- I didn't know I wanted to experience intimacy with another girl. Not until my own parents changed so much. In a way, they are the perfection of the female form. Each in their own way. When they started to have sex again, I found only curiosity within my heart. You know I am a necromancer, right?"

When Bailey nodded Sarah continued. "It is a sorcerer subclass. One very specific. Still, it shares some abilities. One Miss Kirin taught me led me down a rabbit hole I couldn't escape. Astral projection. Such a harmless skill. To detach your soul from your body. Just for a short while. Enough to witness the lovemaking of your own parents. Get addicted to it. That's why I needed someone I could experiment with. To see if those feelings within me are real or just an illusion haunting me."

"That is why you chose me?" Bailey asked.

"Miss Kirin did. But I was so glad she did. I liked you. Before all this. Before my parents changed. Back then I hadn't been as confident as I am now. Honestly, when you showed up with those presents, I wouldn't have minded accepting them. Enchantment or not. I felt flattered. Wanted. But my parents. They had bad memories about enchantments like that. Even with me wanting to, I couldn't accept your gifts. I couldn't do that to my parents."

"I understand," Bailey said with a sad smile. Still, a tear trailed down her cheek. "I so much regret my stupidity. The enchanted gifts. That my heart was led astray by your parents."

"Don't," Sarah commanded. Her voice now tinted with authority. "We both have our misgivings about the past. But here we are. It led us to this moment."

Bailey nodded. "And I am all yours."

"You are. Aren't you? A present just for me. This time not enchanted, yet so much more magical. Do you mind if I unwrap it?" Sarah teased.

Bailey's mouth grew dry. She was so close to having her dreams fulfilled. "I trust you," Bailey said instead of answering. "You can do anything with me."

"And I think I will," Sarah cooed. Her hands found the strings that held Bailey's dress. Slowly she untied them. The anticipation between both of them grew, but Sarah took her time. Gently she lifted the dress off Bailey. Leaving her naked, save for the diaper.

Bailey flinched and let out a small moan. "What is it?" Sarah softly demanded to know.

"The rattle," Bailey admitted while a blush colored her cheeks. "You pushed it a little while lifting the dress."

"And what makes this rattle so special?" Sarah asked while grabbing it. Again Bailey moaned and her hands twitched slightly towards her diaper. "Oh I see," Sarah cooed. "Someone has a naughty secret."

She gently brushed Bailey's hands aside and opened the Velcro straps of the diaper. The heavy scent of female arousal permeated the air. The diaper itself clean, but seeping in Bailey's nectar of arousal. Courtesy of her last masturbation season.

A few shakes of the rattle and Bailey was squirming while moans escaped her lips. The vibrator - delicious little torture device now unbound - steadily worked itself free of her netherly confines. When the device was sticking out the width of two fingers, Sarah helped it along by pulling it out.

"Open up," was the only warning Bailey got before the phallus was used to gently part her lips. She had wondered how her own juices would taste, but Bailey hadn't found the courage to find out. Now she had no choice and it made her blush in humiliation. At the same time, she was well aware how a new wave of arousal ran through her.

"Hold that for me," Sarah purred before standing up. She took a few steps away from the bed and turned around. Standing there in all her glory Sarah reached behind her back. Bailey heard the whisper of a zipper and then - inch by inch - gravity pulled the long dress off Sarah. Joining the small pool of fabric on the floor was the shrugged off lacy panties.

With a raised eyebrow she unhooked her bra and flung it to the side. Suddenly Bailey was glad for the dildo between her lips. Without it, it might be obvious how speechless she was. Or worse yet how incapable she felt to describe or compliment the beauty before her.

"I take it you like what you see?" Sarah teased. Bailey nodded but didn't dare to break eye contact. Suddenly fearing that she blinked even once and Sarah was gone. Just a daydream gone wild. When Sarah walked over just to remove the vibrator and give a deep passionate kiss, Bailey knew she was awake and one lucky girl.

"Silly me," Sarah purred after breaking apart. "This little toy won't be enough for the two of us. But you and I are lucky. I have another toy with me. Want to see it?"

Bailey's mind was racing in a million different directions. Part of her just wanted to make out forever. Another part was curious. Most of all she wanted to please Sarah. "Yes," Bailey meekly replied.

A quick hungry kiss and Sarah sauntered out of the room. Not for long and once again Sarah leaned onto the door frame. Bailey's gaze was drawn to the toy between Sarah's legs. Big, hard, and gleaming black stood a rubber phallus proudly erect on Sarah's crotch. Held in place by some study leather belts.

Bailey swallowed hard. Compared to this her rattle activated vibrator was indeed a toy. A small little plaything. Never before in her short existence had Bailey even attempted to insert something this big into herself.

"It does look intimidating, right?" Sarah teased. "Trust me. You can take this. By the time I am done, you will be glad you did."

Bailey gave a nod. Found herself unable to do anything else. As Sarah came closer to Bailey, she instinctively spread her legs. But Sarah didn't bite. Instead of using the toy on her, Sarah took her time. Exploring every inch of Bailey with a caress here or a soft touch there. Bailey wound herself under her ministrations. Her arousal steadily increasing. She wanted Sarah to take her, but also knew that the when was not up to her.

Eventually, Sarah climbed on top of Bailey. Silenced every whimper of need from her with a kiss. Bailey could feel the hard appendage that hung from Sarah's groin brushing her inner tights. It only increased the flames of Bailey's arousal more. Then, in the moment of highest arousal, Sarah finally pushed into her.

* * * * * * * * * *

Their sex lasted forever, or so it felt to Bailey. It probably was more like an hour. It left Bailey drained, but satisfied. Yet what followed was even more rewarding.

They talked for hours, while lazily snuggling with each other. Telling each other about their past and hopes for the future. Every little detail they laid it bare to each other until there wasn't a single secret left between them. Never would Bailey - or back then Brad - have thought she would open herself to someone this completely. In a way, Bailey fell in love with Sarah all over again.

Eventually, they settled down and there was a lull. A moment of silence between them.

"I can't date you," Sarah whispered into the quiet. "Not like this."

The words cut into Bailey. In a heartbeat, her mind jumped to the worst place she could go. Sarah didn't want her after all. All her trials and challenges for nothing.

Sarah made Bailey look into her eyes. There she saw only warm compassion. "Right now your stats are those of a baby. And I can't date a baby. But Miss Kirin told me that you can get those missing stats back by training. Once you have your old stats back - one normal for people our age - I will know you are ready. I want you, Bailey. Don't doubt that. So vow to me that you will train hard."

There was this intensity in Sarah's eyes. One might say Bailey imagined thinks, but she was Sarah's soul laid bare there. The longing, sincerity, and compassion.

"I vow it with all my heart," Bailey declared.

"Then I vow, until the day you will be my girlfriend, that I'll be your naughty babysitter," Sarah pledged.

Their resolve was made official with a kiss. One that led to more. Much more.

* * * * * * * * * *

When Bailey woke up it was dark. Night had fallen and drenched everything in obscurity. A silhouette sat down on the bed. At first, Bailey thought it was Sarah, but slowly made out the details of Miss Kirin.

"How was the exhibit?" Bailey asked.

"You're awake," Miss Kirin stated in surprise. She switched on the small lamp on the bedside table. "Never mind that exhibit. How are things between you and Sarah? She was a little tight-lipped about details."

"She isn't my girlfriend," Bailey started. "Not yet anyway."

"Why not?"

"Because she wants to wait until I regain my strength," Bailey explained. "The hard way. Through training."

"But, why?" Miss Kirin asked. "You did tell her you can undo the current transfer, right? A week is over. We can do it tomorrow. Even now if you want to."

"Something gave her the impression that we plan on training me up," Bailey said with a weak smile. "She thinks that I will 'grow up' along with the stats I regain."

But it was those details Bailey didn't say out aloud that mattered. She had figured it out. The last puzzle pieces provided by Sarah without her knowing it. Bailey could bet that it was Miss Kirin who had led Sarah to believe Bailey was to 'grow up' through training. Not through lies. Bailey had figured that out. Miss Kirin never lied. Neither to Sarah or Bailey.

But Miss Kirin had spun a web of half-truth and promises. What made it so alluring was that she kept those promises. Every single one of them. Sarah got what she wanted and Bailey's goal was within her grasp. A happy end for the both of them. But not all of Miss Kirin's plans had come to fruition yet. And now that Bailey saw clearly she felt compelled to do follow along.

"You said no matter what happens, that you will take care of me," Bailey said out loud.

"You know I will," Miss Kirin declared. "I swore it to you."

"Sarah deserves a girlfriend," Bailey mused out loud. "One who is a fully grown woman. Even if I take back my stats now, I won't be it. I've only been a girl for a few weeks. It's only skin deep. Underneath is still Brad."

Bailey took a deep breath and looked the sorceress into the eyes. "But I have a second chance. To grow up as a woman. The one Sarah deserves. Will you help me? I need someone to take care of me. Will you be my mother."

"Of course I will," Miss Kirin said with a bright smile. "Anything for my baby girl."

And there it was. Miss Kirin had won. Brad was gone and Bailey was her new daughter. Once Brad had asked her if that was her goal. To make him into her baby girl. Miss Kirin had avoided the question. Ridiculed it. But this had been her goal all along. She had found the right persons for her schemes. With Sarah the perfect bait. And Brad. He had been cut off and lonely. Estranged from his own parents and longing for Sarah. Desperate enough to follow the orders of a ghost with nothing to rely on, but her words and promises.

That's why her plans had been so devious. Everyone won. Each needs perfectly filled. And this compelled Bailey now to play along. Even though she saw through it all. Because if she would have to grow up again then she wanted the best to be her mother.

Who better than someone with centuries of experience. Who was manipulative, but also deeply loyal. If someone could teach Bailey to grow up as a woman, then it was her, Miss Kirin.

"I am your baby girl," Bailey repeated. She did it proudly.

And at this moment Bailey was sure, she had not a single last regret.