Play Testers Wanted Pt. 20

"This doesn't feel real," I whispered. "This is just crazy."

"I am sure the dinosaurs thought the same damn thing when that meteor slammed into the Earth and wiped them out," Left offered. "For me, it is the opposite. The world feels so diminished since the ghost lines shut down. It was Kadaena's final gambit. My fellow K'Ta'Viiri knew they were doomed when they sealed her away. My race sacrificed themselves to save the galaxy."

I focused, and the ghost line energy flickered around my digits. "Left, what can I expect since I am now a member of your race."

"With such a low level of energy, you are severely limited," Left said after a moment of contemplation. "There is enough to keep you alive. I would guess that your raw strength, eye-hand coordination, agility, and stamina are around that of an Olympic athlete."

We talked until dawn. The danger posed by the awakening of the ghost lines staggered the mind. If Kadaena tapped into that energy, the galaxy would burn, and no one could stop her. The Duskwalkers were effectively extinct or on an irrevocable downward spiral. I had more pressing matters, the black decade, and nine more assassins out there. The storm had only gotten worse, and the road trip could wait until after my appearance, right after lunch. Akira arrived with breakfast and promised to guard my body while playing host along with cosplayers. Eh, it could be worse.

"I brought your gear from the safe house," Akira said between bites of food. "Your new gloves finally came in. It was a bitch finding a discreet crafter to fashion them for you. The integrated circuitry should tie in with your new upgrade just fine."

"New upgrade?" I wondered if she meant Bright Eyes and if she did, how in the hell did she know?

"Wet Works," Akira munched on a bagel. "Heightened sensory input and response system, I forget the official project name."

"Bright Eyes?" I offered.

"Yep, that's it," she gleefully said, clapping her hands together. "My nervous system nearly burned out when they attempted the first level integration. I got lucky. You, oh goodness, you are my fucking hero, and you not only survived the procedure but adapted to it. I am proud to serve you."

"Okay," I said, confused as all hell. Surfer almost became unstuck when she discovered that Bright Eyes wasn't just active but complete. Had Akira been a test subject for the alpha version of the software? It made sense. I was glad she survived.

"So modest too," Akira giggled. "I have a listing of the guests for this afternoon. Do you want to read through it? Their actual identities are proprietary, but as you'll see, their fetishes and vulnerabilities aren't. The monikers are reminiscent of the board game Clue."

"Yeah, it might be fun," I agreed. Akira set my signet ring and Nick's watch on the table between us. "Thank you for holding those for me." I slipped the ring on but hesitated with the timepiece. It had belonged to Nick. Was a copy of his mind lurking inside of it? My hand shook as I held the prototype of all the Numenor smartwatches. The loving care put into the case was evident, the internal guts had been removed and improved, yet it scared me to death.

"Scan complete," Surfer announced. "The watch is empty of data crystals or ulterior programming. It needs a crystal or two."

"Shit, I almost forgot," Akira said. "I brought the typical backups." She opened a disc-shaped metal case. I plucked them one by one and inserted them into the three available slots. "The black one is Wraith, the silver one is Surfer, the red one is Magnus," Akira listed off the different AI crystals. "You don't remember Magnus? He is the tactician and a culmination of the finest military minds from Marcus Antonius to Sun Tsu to Miyamoto Musashi, and even generals of the modern-day."

"Given my current situation, I will need all of them," I said. "Now, let's go over the guest list." I reluctantly let the memory metal watchband close about my wrist. The smartwatch sealed itself and powered up after a short stability check. I got a green light from my HUD. When nothing happened, I relaxed. "Back to business."

While there were no names, the list contained a slew of megacorps and multinational institutions. These were the one percent of the world's elite. I suspected they were either the owners of said businesses or on the board of directors for them. This event did not feel like a charity but more of stroking the egos of the ultra-rich. The positive side is they could afford to fork over a shit ton of money for the less fortunate.

"Only a few are on the Order's radar," Wraith chimed in. "So, as far as you are concerned, relax and have fun, Sir."

"Thank you, Wraith," I replied. "Any other suggestions?"

"If I may?" Magus asked. Her voice was a silvery alto with deeply sensuous subtleties. "I concur with Wraith. Your body is under the best possible care. For your psyche's sake, cut loose and enjoy yourself."

"I agree," Surfer added. "But you won't be alone. Just look near the bottom."

"Those are the adult cosplayers Kat chose to entertain the guests, and she has someone special picked out for you," Akira grinned. "I shan't spoil the surprise."

"Is there a theme to this little shindig?" I asked.

"Yes, but that is also a secret. My part is simple. While you mingle and entertain the guests, I will guard your body," Akira sternly declared. "No one will lay a finger on you."

I spent the morning finding things to bleed off nervous energy. There were only so many situps and pushups one can do before you drag your bodyguard into it. Akira didn't seem to mind being the focus of that outlet.

"UNN, that's cold," Akira gasped as her bare breasts pressed against the glass door leading to the balcony. "My poor nipples."

I kissed my way from the base of her neck to her ear. "You think anyone can see us?" I asked as her body began to shake. "Are you close again?"

"Uh-huh," she whispered. "Real close." A minute or so later, Akira cried out and laughed as my load pulsed inside of her.

"That was nine," I growled in her ear as I ground against her from behind.

"Ten," Akira gasped breathlessly. "The last one was a multiple. Trust me. Aw shit, you need to get ready. It is nearly one o'clock."

One quick cat bath later, and I logged into the private server Kat had allocated for our use today. I did not get the bonus for best late arrival. That honor belonged to a cluster of female cosplayers dressed in tuxedo jackets, fishnet stockings, and bunny ears. Their male counterparts were already mingling and entertaining the ladies and gents alike.

What happens when you mix sex, politics, and a full-dive fundraiser? Complications must arise. Not everyone likes to roleplay. Some folks are just too uptight to let go and get into the scenario. I just hoped I wasn't the only one trying to carry the group the entire time. We'll wait and see. There were definite groupings with the guests. After a moment, I saw the colored icons over their heads. I stood amidst the dark silver group. Next to us were the gold-ranked guests, and so on. I learned from Surfer that all of the guests had paid through the nose to meet and greet politicians for the upcoming election cycle. The cosplayers were there to keep the guests happy. Your donation level gave you access to a specific tier of talent and visitors since I was one of the VIP's Kat hand-selected the brightest and most talented artist to be my arm candy.

"Booker," Kat introduced me to my trophy cosplayer. "This is Kalinka Fox, and she is a gifted model and eager companion for you to strut about with on the train. Kalinka, this is," Kat began, but the Moscow-born native knew me on sight.

"The whole world knows Booker," Kalinka purred in her accented English. "It will be my honor to keep him company and amused. I am big fan." Kalinka was at least six inches shorter than my six-foot frame. Her sharp Slavic features possessed high cheekbones, cute button noses, and a small mouth with plump lips. Her avatar shared all of her real-world characteristics to the smallest detail.

"I am sure we will hit it off just fine," I replied. Kalinka took my arm and placed it around her waist. "Don't worry. I'll protect you."

The setting changed as the event began. We stood on a railway line. The dark pink-red train awaited our boarding, and there were gasps of excitement seeing a perfect recreation of the legendary Orient Express. Our period costumes manifested at the same time the train appeared. Kat's speech was short, to the point, and inspiring.

"Each of you has been given a part to play. Use your HUD to read your name and occupation. How you filled out the questionnaire is the level of depth of your persona's importance in our little drama. Those with roleplaying experience will have more crucial parts. And, of course, those who want to savor the atmosphere can do so at their leisure. It should come as no surprise that Booker will play the part of a world-famous detective. Ladies and gentlemen, welcome aboard the Orient Express!"

Each color-coded passenger car matched the level of donation, Kalinka and I entered the platinum car as hosts and the draw for such a prestigious crowd of wealthy guests. I accepted a glass of champagne while I checked my HUD. There must be some mistake; I was the murderer, not the detective. This mystery would have one hell of a twist. To score, I needed to seduce the woman into anal sex. I remembered the bio sheet on every high-end client and their sexual predilections. They ranged from light bondage to choking to exhibitionism. I racked up points for each 'kill' and bonus if I used one of their fetishes before or during the act. There were other vague mechanics to earn extra points, but they were learn as you go. Experimentation was the key to success. There were multiple squeals of delight as the train shook as it began to lurch forward and pick up speed. I raised my glass high and toasted to my esteemed victims.

"Bottoms up, and heads down," I called out to the delight of everyone present.

"I've never done this before," Kalinka whispered in my ear.

"Well, you see, what you do is get on your knees," I began when she playfully gripped my arm.

"Not that silly," she purred. "I meant all these rich people. It makes someone like me nervous."

"I've seen your impressive photo gallery. You have nothing to fear. They want you so bad they can taste it, so, make them work for it," I urged Kalinka. "Not me, of course. You should surrender to me at the drop of a hat."

"Of course I will," Kalinka laughed. "Thanks, I needed that."

"That's what she said," several men and women near us roared. They must have overheard Kalinka's last few words.

"It is going to be that kind of crowd," I chuckled. "So, no shit, there I was," I began as I gently cupped Kalinka's firm round bottom.

Surfer informed me that each car had a detective and guests willing to roleplay. However, the platinum car had the fewest imaginative people of all the carriages. That kept things simple for me. Pick out a few daring women, offer them their kink of choice, and see how things progressed. The 1930s wardrobes were exciting and gave the train a nostalgic air. Women's makeup highlighted eyes, lips, and cheekbones dramatically while the men wore suits, carried pocket watches and walking sticks. Hats were popular for either sex though many ladies preferred to show off their perfectly coifed hairstyles.

"You tell me if and when you feel uncomfortable," I whispered in Kalinka's ear. "I don't want to cross any lines here."

"If I didn't want you to make love to me, I wouldn't be here," Kalinka whispered back. "I have seen you racier videos, and trust me. I want to be here with you." I kissed the side of her neck to test the waters, and Kalinka whimpered and clung tight. "Good opening salvo." She turned her head, and I kissed her lightly at first and then more passionately. Kalinka moaned as her arms went around my neck, and we stood there while the others watched our exchange. She broke the kiss gasping for air. "If this is a hint of what is to come, damn, I can't wait."

"Can I cut in," a woman with a distinctly South African accent asked nicely?

"Please do. I don't want to hog Booker right now," Kalinka laughed and let the other woman take her spot. "Later on, who's to say."

"I am Sapphire," the woman informed me. "I can't believe I am standing next to you."

"Do you want a selfie or something else?" I asked Sapphire.

"Bold, I need to be bold," Sapphire whispered. To reward her courage I slipped my arm around her waist, pulled her close, and kissed her. I reluctantly broke the kiss when her partner harumphed in my ear. "Oh, this is my companion Star," Sapphire gasped. "His kisses are like the first rains of spring." I didn't miss the connection between the two.

"How wonderful," Star said, her voice silvery and yet elusive.

"Now, all we need is a Ms. Black to complete the wordplay," I laughed as I took Star into my arms. "You are not South African. I cannot place your accent."

"I am from Egypt," Star declared. "Kiss me and see if you can make my toes curl." I slid my hand up and cupped the side of her face. Star leaned against it and ensnared my thumb between her lips. If that was a hint at her oral skills, things might get hot and heavy quicker than expected. I pulled my thumb from her mouth, and as I had with Kalinka, I began with a light kiss but soon, her hunger infected me. It took a hand on my arm to break the kiss.

"I am Ms. Black," the newcomer said with what I could only describe as an air of nobility. "Stand back and see what a real woman can achieve with a mere kiss." She took control, and we stood as equals sharing an ever-deepening kiss until we both broke off and stared at the other. There was something different about Ms. Black. It went beyond her avatar. "Unexpected and surprising," she gasped. "I have tasted you, and I will not soon forget it." Ms. Black stepped away and returned to her tall Italian companion. The brief exchange was intense and shocking. The olive-skinned man looked at me once and raised an eyebrow before the pair blended into one of the larger groups.

"Triple name score," the AI informed everyone. "Booker has unlocked Black Star Sapphire for a bonus award." A thumb-sized gemstone fell into my open palm. Left held it up for all to see. The jewel was a perfect cabochon that needed a setting, so I pocketed the stone and returned my attention to Kalinka. The other women had drifted back to their friends, leaving us alone.

"What do you make of Ms. Star?" I asked. "Her accent intrigues me."

"I was about to say the same thing," Kalinka replied. "I have a large fan base, and yet I have never heard that one before. She said she was from Egypt, but I know for sure that she isn't a native. Star must just be living there."

"A real mystery," I offered. One of the servers passed by with a tray with glasses of champagne. I lifted two and offered one to Kalinka. "Here's to an enigma."

The Woman in the Scarlet Dress:

The flash of red silk caught my attention. The rest of the world seemed to turn monochromatic, and only the slinky woman in red was real. The Asian beauty in the crimson Chinese style dress appeared from the rear of our car. The Qipao had black accents and a daring slit up one side that went to her hip. When she walked, I kept trying to see if she had on panties or not. Nope, it was smooth skin from ankle to waist. I knew my targets weren't the cosplayers, but the Ada Wong clone was killing it as she stalked the center aisle. Her name was HaneAme. She had a following of three million fans and growing. Between her and Kalinka, I planned on making one or both of them scream before this was over.

"You are Booker," Hane greeted me. "I have seen your videos."

"Did you like them?" I asked as Kalinka returned from a round of selfies with the wealthy guests. "My poor manners, Kalinka, have you met HaneAme?"

"We share interests," Kalinka replied coolly.

"Yes, I find Booker attractive as well," Hane added. "Perhaps later, I have a photoshoot with a few guests." I watched the Taiwanese cosplayer walk away and tried to determine which side I preferred. Her ass was amazing.

"You want to fuck her too?" Kalinka moaned in my ear. "Are you sure you can handle the two of us?"

"I have a few words for you," I said, my lips brushing her ear. "Double Dragon."

"Challenge accepted," Kalinka growled happily. "It seems the dear mega pastor requests my presence. This encounter won't take long. Have fun while I'm gone. I have points to earn."

Speaking of points to earn, I pulled down my HUD and cross-referenced which ladies from my files were in the platinum coach. I sipped my drink and compared the ladies present with the more exciting kinks they preferred. One stood out among the rest and seemed like a great ice breaker. My opener was a chancy gambit, but the entire car would get an eyeful or more if it worked. I pretended to look out over the available ladies when I purposefully locked my gaze on my target and then made a dismissive expression and moved on. Ms. White's avatar was a petite dishwater blonde with a noticeable dimple in her chin, bright blue eyes, and girl next door good looks. The dark blue dress made her eyes pop and set off her fair skin quite nicely.

"Oh hell no," Ms. White exclaimed loudly. She was tipsy and having none of my shenanigans. "Don't you fucking dare!" The woman got to her feet and placed hands on her curvy hips. "I saw what you did. No. You will not dismiss me like that." Everyone was watching her lose her composure. "Am I not good enough for you? Is that it?" She stomped her foot and sneered. "Oh my god, that is it. You don't think I rate your attention." I never said a word. I shrugged, and I might as well have slapped her instead. "I'll fucking show you." She proclaimed as she unzipped the back of her dress. With a rolling of her shoulders, the garment slid to the floor and puddled there. "See these tits, eh? They are perfect." Ms. White said as she ran her hands across them. The antique undergarment hid any details but hinted at a formidable rack. "I got pierced nipples, and so is my clit, mister high and mighty."

"He doesn't look impressed, Ms. White," one of the other female guests joined in. "I bet his cock wants a real woman."

"Screw you, Indigo girl," White fired back. "I am all woman, and I'll show you." Indigo girl winked at me knowingly, and the show got hotter. Ms. White's file said she adored a public audience and allowed light choking and mild pain occasionally. With the aid of another woman, they unlaced the whalebone corset, and everyone watched as Ms. White's tits spilled out. They were a glorious sight to behold. The glint of gaslight on cold metal told the truth to the woman's claim. "See, I told you." White made it clear she had nothing to hide as she tugged down the antiquated underwear which joined her dress on the floor.

I made a face, and White went ballistic. She snarled as I gestured, and the message was clear. You want to impress me, get on your knees and crawl over here. When Ms. White hesitated, I turned to face an adorable Canadian woman and began openly flirting. The newcomer laughed and kissed my cheek. White whimpered as she dropped to her knees and started crawling. I whispered to the Canadian, and she nodded.

"You call that slithering? I don't. A real woman would prove her worth, right darling?" The Canadian laughed cruelly. The sound that escaped Ms. White's lips was as much feral as it was sexual. I kept my back turned as the other woman described what was happening. Finally, White tugged on my pant leg to get my attention. I turned, and the rest of the guests watched the following exchange in silence. White looked up as I squatted, slid my fingers into her professionally coifed hair, and made a tight fist. I pushed her head down as her ass went up as high as it could go. A grey-haired gentleman raised an eyebrow, and I nodded. He approached Ms. White, cupped his hand, and smacked her bare ass so hard the echo sounded like a gunshot.