Fox’s Lover

Opening my eyes for the first time in Fifty years. My first thought is how have things changed, is the world more accepting, or will I become hunted and enslaved again? Kitori sits up, looking around his resting place. Still, in his fox form, his eyes adjust quickly to the darkness of the dwelling. Uncurling and stretching, quickly transforming into his human form. Reaching for the robe laid out by his bed, he rings the bell before dressing. Sighing when he sees the sketch by his pillow.

"My love, I wonder if you will be born in this life. I have searched for three lifetimes with no success trying to find you," he says before placing the photo to his heart. Hearing the knock on the door, Kitori stands and goes to open it. Standing there is an older-looking man with a sour face.

"Master, you have awakened; I have brought you some nourishment to help you after such a long sleep. Now that you awaken, I will start the transition of the dwelling to reflect the era. " bowing to the master, the servant goes to leave.

"Wait, how much has the world changed that you need to transform the house?" Kitori asks.

" We need to install the internet and a few other things. The technology of this era is much more advanced than when you went to sleep. Just as I was a small child when you began your long sleep, I have aged greatly. I have already prepared your clothing, and you will be happy to know that you have wealth beyond imagination in this life. You will not need to worry about being hunted or enslaved. My father took excellent care of your financials. He left you a letter explaining it all. " the man turns to leave again when Kitori stops him.

"What is your name? I'm sorry my memory has not returned fully yet." Kitori asks him.

"I am Koto my father served you until about ten years ago when he passed. He always said that you were kind and a fair master. He trained me well so that all of your needs would be met. I will take my leave, for now, your bath is ready, as are your clothes. My father's journal is on the desk; it will have detailed information on all you will need to know." Koto bows and leaves the room, leaving Kitori to eat and bathe.

After bathing, Kitori looks at himself in the mirror, noting that his features are softer this time. The scars of the last life have faded to faint lines, his skin much smoother and muscular. Smiling to himself, he wonders if his love will find this form appealing.

Walking over to the desk, he takes out the journal and begins to read.

Master

if you are reading this, then I have left this world. I hope that I can serve you again in my next life. I have trained my son in all aspects of your needs, and he will serve you well. He is a good man with a lovely wife and children that will serve your house well. You have no debts, and I invested your money well, growing your wealth a hundredfold. You now own all of the lands from the mountain to the river's edge. You also have several businesses that a reputable firm in Tokyo manages. You will not need to worry about money. All of your identification papers are in the safe ready for your use. Inside of this journal holds all of the information you will need to live this life comfortably without fear of being exposed. May you enjoy this life and find your love.

Forever you humble servant.

Sato

Tears prick Kitori's eyes as he remembers his loyal servant. Wondering if his passing was peaceful or not. He rings for Koto.

Koto, hearing the master's ring, motions for his wife and children to follow him. Making their way up to the master's room, he hears his son grunt in annoyance. Turning to him, he gives him a sharp look.

" I don't care if you like the master or not. Remember that you have had a life filled with prosperity and ease because of this person. He has been generous in every aspect and has only asked that we do our job. A job that has never been a burden for this family. This person saved our family over and over; we owe him more than we can ever repay. You have never lacked anything in your life because of this person. So think of that before you open that ungrateful mouth of yours." Koto glares at his son after giving him a warning. He turns to knock on the door alerting the master they are about to enter.

"Enter," Kitori calls. The door opens, and the family enters. Kitori notices right away that the younger man is not happy about being there. Walking over to him, looking deep into his eyes.

Chills begin to run down the man's spine as the dark penetrating eyes stare into his.

" You are not happy about working for me. If you do not wish to be here, then you may leave. Just know, though, if you leave, anything that belongs to me will not be allowed out. Any privileges you have enjoyed by your father and mother have been in my employ will be stopped. Your grandfather left me with a detailed account of salary and expenses. My money was used to educate you to prepare you for working for me. It was an investment on my part, so it will need to be paid back if you leave. The house you live in is mine, so you will need to leave if you do not work for me. Your grandfather only bought one house with his salary. That is the house your father lives in. That is the only property that your family owns. My money has clothed and fed you your entire life. Your father has used his salary for your vacations and extravagant lifestyle, knowing that I paid all basic living expenses. Therefore he has only your grandfather's house. The choice will be yours if you wish to stay or not. Think carefully because if you leave, I may not let you return. I am a generous employer, but I have my limits as well. You have one month to decide. " Kitori looks at the man watching him calculate what the cost it will be for him to leave. Smirkingly he bows to Koto, his wife, and daughter in greeting.