Responsibility Day (m+f+/m+f+, m+f+/M+F+, f/m,...) (Chapter 40 added)

[Beaumains]

Prologue:
Arkalay was a rural town with four thousand citizens, and Jeanne Thomassen was its mayor. She had faced many curious journalists in this role. Not due to some scandal or disaster, but due to their odd customs. Children tied their parents up and kidnapped each other. It was called Responsibility Day. It was even added to the local laws, feeding the imagination of many. Today, another camera pressed in Jeanne’s face to learn about this tradition.

“It all began nine years ago. Arkalay was a sleepy town with tons of youth without a bar, arcade, or other distraction. They were bored and spent their time gaming at best. Else, they drank booze and troubled Arkalay. Then they moved to college after high school, never to return.”

“A couple years earlier, we had formed a youth council that came up with many amazing ideas. Sadly, the city council consisted of seniors who voted all the new plans away. They said it was too costly. In reality, they had lost their touch with teenagers. Due to this, the youth didn’t feel taken seriously. No-one listened to them while being called lazy.”

“After many disputes, the two councils cut a deal. From then on, every 17th day of the month was Responsibility Day. On this day, kids rule Arkalay. Adults lose their influence, both in the government and at home.”

“This was a huge project that would fail when done partially. So we had to go all out and wrote laws forcing adults to drop their usual duties. Their children had to keep the household. They’ve to cook, clean, and plan the day. Some stores and restaurants close, but teens run most. They are also in charge of our local government and police force. The roles are reversed, so adults go to school. This refreshes their knowledge but is also instructive for the kids teaching them. One can only explain a notion when they get it. Due to our approach, our school district is among the best in the state.”

“We vote every year for these laws, and on average, ninety percent is in favor. Still, adults have trouble giving up their power, so their children can tie them up with ropes and tape. They can gag their parents if they speak up. If the grown-ups don’t comply, they can be jailed. In this way, our youth leads Arkalay for a day. Adults lose all their authority.”

“Of course, there are exceptions. Adults with a job outside of town are escorted to the city borders and work a regular day. Our emergency services operate as usual, just like our kindergarten and primary school. Parents with young children still care for them but have to wear a badge indicating their role. All others have to be restrained and guided by a minor when in public. Else, they can be put in our city jail.”

Although this was well-known, the journalist wanted to hear it herself. She listened carefully and noted the mayor had skipped one aspect in her story. What was going on with the abductions?

“Well,” Jeanne Thomassen continued with a smile. All these interviews were the same, and it was not hard to predict this question. “That’s a long story. As Arkalay became famous, many fancied being here during the big day. So as a city, we let guests stay with a host family. We favor families with children as they can take part in our customs. It’s great for family bonding. They pay their hosts a fee, and the city gets a cut.”

“Within months, renting out became an income source for many families. Everyone doing this by themselves is complicated and messy, so this was centralized. Within no time, two groups emerged that are now the sole ones with a permit: Northwood and Riverbend. These are also the names of the two old neighborhoods of Arkalay.

“There was only one problem. These two parts of Arkalay have been rivals since the founding. By renting out, families had to take a side in the conflict. As mayor, I could split the town in two, but that meant forming a cartel. Luckily, our kids are creative and found a solution.”

“Each group got the right to rent out about half the town, though this division isn’t fixed. If one group controls a house, and the other has the adjacent house, they can kidnap a child living there. If they can hold them as a prisoner for 24 hours, they get control over the house. In this way, the houses a company can rent out changes during the year. Of course, the owners decide if their house receives guests. It is still their property. The kids call the city-center the Battlefield for a reason.”

Jeanne saw the reporter’s worried face. “There are strict rules as this is not without risk. First, only children over the age of eleven can be taken. Next, kids choose whether to take part. Thirdly, captors have to care well for their captives. Violence, neglect, and sexual undertones are not allowed. The kids have a court to judge if the rules are broken. If that is the case, they can be banned from the game. Problems occur rarely, and all know this is only possible when everyone plays by the rules. This taught our youth to be responsible, and adults and children respect each other more. In every way, this project was a success.”

The interview ended after Jeanne reconfirmed the kids loved to tie each other up. The reporter and her crew left, so Jeanne could focus on her other duties. In this case, if the sidewalk of Second Avenue should be repaved, or not.

[ArrestedForever]

I. love. This.
Curious though, do all adults get tied or only those with kids? Like say a college student like myself. Am i obligated to get bound by a younger sibling?
I’m loving the possibilities either way.

[hafnermg]

This is gonna be good! and I soooo want to live there!

[Mineira1986]

Oh, I'm totally following this one. It's gonna be good. I hope some parents are hard trouble for their children and they get really tied up, and maybe just some parental punishment on them so they learn their place (please, let it be spanking, please let it be spaking hehe).

[Beaumains]

I. love. This.
Curious though, do all adults get tied or only those with kids? Like say a college student like myself. Am i obligated to get bound by a younger sibling?
I’m loving the possibilities either way.

Thanks!
No child is obliged to tie their parents. The law states that parents can't refuse to be restricted by their offspring and have to be restrained in public. Regarding a college-age sibling, I will explain that in the next chapter. This was just a general overview of the rules since listing every little detail in the prologue is a bit monotonous. I'll clarify them when they are needed.

This is gonna be good! and I soooo want to live there!

Thanks! It is an intriguing concept, but I wonder whether the town would still be livable. This is just a fantasy, and although I'll try to write realistic characters/plot, it will be hard to create a habitable town where TUGs are commonplace.

Oh, I'm totally following this one. It's gonna be good. I hope some parents are hard trouble for their children and they get really tied up, and maybe just some parental punishment on them so they learn their place (please, let it be spanking, please let it be spaking hehe).

Thanks, that's an interesting take. But I doubt it's a solid plan for the children to give their parents a hard time. They've to live together for the rest of the year, and their parents can ground them the next day if they wish. The idea of using some childish punishments against them is a good one. I will remember it.

[Beaumains]

1. Calm before the Storm

Monday, April 22nd

“This Responsibility Day was great! Much better than last month. It was a long time ago since we got such neat guests,” Aiden said while leaving the physics class with his two best friends, Micheal and Elijah.

“Better than mine,” Elijah smirked. “We got two kinky perverts with three kids. You should have seen their faces when we told them collars and vibrators were a no-go. They thought it was a joke. Luckily, they grasped it the next day. Believe me, they topped the advanced rope class. Their kids also have a history since their knots were good. So an interesting family, to say the least.” The three boys laughed.

Guests like these weren’t rare. At least they had not brought their own stuff, Aiden thought.

The whole day, there were more or less compulsory tie-up classes for the guests. The children learned how to tie someone safely, with their parents as natural guinea pigs. Most Arkalay teens had other duties, and no-one knew their guests. Leaving the children alone with their tied parents was asking for trouble. Other subjects were taught too, but the tie-up classes were by far the most popular. No other place taught this, and the teachers were excellent. Many of Arkalay’s youth were skilled with ropes and tape. This custom had not only brought ties for those abducted and adults. Kids often tied each other up as well for fun.

“Haha. We got a single mom with a son wanting to bond with her son, so they spent most of their time together. Nothing noteworthy happened. Well, except for her hitting on my dad, but that’s nothing new,” Micheal grinned.

Micheal had lived alone with his dad after his sister moved out two years ago. Hence, they often got a single parent with one child. Since he was responsible for the parent and child, he couldn’t handle more at once.

“Perhaps there was something unusual,” Micheal continued. “At the end of the evening, my sister came over. She isn’t in high school anymore, so I could restrain her. As you know, she used to tie me up for practice. My revenge was sweet. You should’ve seen the mom’s eyes. I doubt she had ever seen such a strict hogtie.” Aiden could only dream of this. His older sister Lilian had tied him up as well in the past. Revenge was also on his bucket list, but he had to wait a couple of years.

The law intended children would run Arkalay. This was vague as some high schoolers were not minors anymore. It was decided they could engage in the abductions but not in the youth government or elections. Thus they often steered their district’s kidnapping strategy. Their older siblings who had a job or went to college were deemed to be adults. They could be bound mercilessly by their younger siblings.

“But seriously, our guest family was awesome. I mean, these kids had a real connection with their parents,” Aiden continued. “Their dad was cool as he let his little daughter bind his hands behind him. As a big bodybuilder, he could easily have torn the two windings of tape but didn’t. They were so cute together while he tried escaping as both were truly enjoying themselves. The only thing was he also made all those stupid dad jokes we’ve heard hundreds of times. So he was a great fit for my dad. I’m glad we kept both gagged for most of the evening.” More laughs followed. All of Arkalay had heard “Don’t go anywhere!”, “Sleep tight!” and “If you can’t fix it with duct tape, you need more duct tape!” far too often.

“You always get decent guests with Lillian now,” Elijah commented while faking his jealousy.

“Yeah, you’re right. Our great junior mayor who is gone all day. Now I’ve to do all the work at home, so that deal wasn’t sweet for me,” said Aiden to defend himself.

Many guests loved to have their kid to be with one of the more influential children. The junior principal, policemen, and teachers often let them try their role to give them a taste of what it is to carry some responsibility. Lilian was elected junior mayor last year. Hence, Aiden’s parents could get any guest family they wanted.

“Yeah, especially after tonight. At least I will sleep in my own bed tomorrow,” Elijah returned while tapping Aiden’s shoulders. “There’s no gain for you. Well, except they’re a bit kinder and pay more, but that goes to your parents anyway.”

During the five days before and after each Responsibility Day, there was a cease-fire. No abductions were allowed, so the Battlefield had a couple days of rest. Yet, almost three weeks remained for the two sides to preserve and expand their territory.

“Yeah, I’m on the Frontline tomorrow and can welcome fresh paranoia back to my brain. I’ve missed it. The free cab to school also comes in handy. In exchange, I’ll have to run away from you. I hope you’re quicker, Micheal. Your dad is a good cook,” Aiden laughed.

“Doubt it. Besides, if the judges find out you gave yourself away, you’re screwed. After Lilian’s election, you can easily get a good position yourself next year. If you don’t play the game, you can forget that.” Micheal replied.

Micheal and Elijah were from Northwood. In contrast, Aiden lived west of the town center, in the Battlefield’s center. The three of them had been friends since kindergarten, but the never-ending abductions parted them these days. Aiden often changed sides between Northwood and Riverbend. The ever-changing line dividing Arkalay was known as the Frontline.

Aiden’s house now lay on Riverbend’s side of the Frontline, so Northwood would try taking him. After midnight, he wouldn’t be safe near Micheal and Elijah anymore.

“See you tomorrow Aiden,” Micheal said before getting into the school bus with Elijah. “I hope you stay for dinner.”

“Hopefully, not!” Aiden replied before walking home.

[Mineira1986]

Collars and vibrators? OMG, that would have been so nasty hehe

Great chapter! The idea of tie-up classes is brilliant, making sure the children can restraint the adults properly.

Can't wait for the next part.

[Beaumains]

Collars and vibrators? OMG, that would have been so nasty hehe

Great chapter! The idea of tie-up classes is brilliant, making sure the children can restraint the adults properly.

Can't wait for the next part.

Thanks a lot!

-----------------------------
2. Start of a School Day

Tuesday, April 23rd

At 7:45, the doorbell rang. “Aiden, Lilian, I think they’re for you,” Aiden’s mom spoke while examining the driveway from the kitchen window. Aiden stood up and strolled to the door.

“Who’re there?” his sister shouted from upstairs. As usual, she was running late.

“Three boys in blue raincoats. Not sure, but I guess seniors. Maybe you recognize them.” Aiden replied. Riverbend wore blue clothing during the abduction season. Northwood, on the other hand, dressed in green. These colors were unofficial, and Northwood could trick them by wearing blue clothes. Set-ups and schemes weren’t uncommon.

“Check them. That should be Nigel with his crew to fetch us. I’m coming. Almost done.” Lilian declared from above.

Aiden sighed and took out his phone. The leader of the pack outside followed his example. He displayed a QR-code on his screen that he pressed against the window. Aiden scanned it with the Arkalay app and could confirm this was indeed Nigel from Riverbend.

Lilian ran down the stairs and gathered the last items she needed. After Aiden and Lilian had grabbed their coats, they unlocked the front door. “Hurry up,” one of Nigel’s friends said while they dashed to his car. Northwood members were picking up Katy, their 13-year-old neighbor, at the same time. She was an only child. The bluecoats were outnumbered two to one and had to protect twice as many. They had to leave as soon as possible.

“Get in,” Nigel said. Aiden did this. Even after so long, it felt unsafe to enter an unknown car. When he closed the door, Nigel locked them from the dashboard. There was no room for unnecessary risks.

“This’ll be difficult for you,” one of the seniors said to Aiden and Lilian. “This situation is in our disadvantage, but we’ll try guarding you. Upper management has a plan. I hope we finally break the stalemate.” Aiden and Lilian nodded. They had been in the frontline for two and a half months already, so this seemed another empty promise. Both their neighbors had only one child, so the odds they were taken first was one-third every time. These kids attended middle school, where students were safe inside. High school didn’t have those perks, so older children were kidnapped more frequently. Aiden was a freshman now, and it had cost him months to be less paranoid when in the frontline. High school was a lot more stressful than in middle school.

The car started and drove the four hundred yards to high school. Even this distance was too risky to walk. “Lilian, I will be your protector today. Aiden, Jenna will be yours. We were late, so we didn’t take her along. You seem to form a solid duo, so we’ll continue pairing you. She’ll inform you further.”

Aiden confirmed he understood this. Jenna was a classmate of him. While he was on this side of the frontline, she had been his protector in the past few months. She was devoted to her job and allowed Aiden little freedom. Risks were useless.

Nigel dropped Aiden off next to Jenna and his other Riverbend classmates. They instantly started escorting him to their English class. It was dangerous in the parking area. Two walked in front of him, two behind him and one on each side. Aiden felt safe.

“I’m sorry I wasn’t there to pick you up. Nigel forgot about me. That is stupid and reckless, but luckily, there were no consequences,” Jenna said. There was no time for “Good morning!”. Business came first. “Let’s summarize the situation. You’re one of the five freshmen who can be stolen.”

“You’re the only one from Riverbend, so about forty freshmen are focused on getting you. This won’t be easy. If you follow my instructions, you can spend the night in your own bed.” Jenna whispered this to him while keeping track of her side of the escort all the time.

Because Aiden and Jenna often collaborated, they knew each other well. Jenna was a frequent visitor to his home. Often to pick him up or bring him away, and rarely she stayed longer. Jenna always stayed in her role as his protector, so nothing had happened there. Their relationship was strictly professional. Aiden didn’t have a crush on her but hoped she would drop her guard once.

About 900 children were involved in the abduction game. Two factions and the battlefield split the school into roughly three equal parts. Around 40 kids were in the danger zone at a given time. They could be taken by one of the factions. Arkalay was an elongated town, so the short frontline didn’t contain many houses to defend. Many focused on guarding and capturing a small number of students.

Aiden, Jenna, and the other Riverbend freshmen entered the classroom. “Sit there,” Jenna said while pointing to a chair on the left side of the class. Aiden followed this direction, and Jenna sat down next to him. The rest of the security team took the chairs around him. No way Northwood would get him here.

Aiden examined the classroom. His row consisted of Riverbend members only. All, except for him, wore blue. It was evident he was one of the frontline kids and stood under Riverbend’s protection. The other unaligned teenagers sat in the middle. They didn’t identify with one of the factions because they often changed sides or lived out of town.

The right row consisted of Northwood members. They wore green shirts and hoodies. Micheal and Elijah were there too. Bundles of rope and green flower garlands lay on their tables. They did this intentional. Aiden knew they were meant to intimidate him. Each of them could attempt to kidnap him by hanging a garland around his neck. Then he had to cooperate with them until he was bound in a safe house or his protector Jenna touched him. In this way, kidnappings didn’t end up in massive brawls. This was also the reason Jenna had to stay close to him. In the official Arkalay app, Riverbend had submitted her as his protector. So she was the only one who could save Aiden, and everyone knew that.

Jenna and her friends took their blue garlands out of their bag and draped them around their necks. In most places, scenes like this would trigger fear for gangs. Here, the whole town knew this was an ongoing amicable gang war. No-one was bothered by it.

“Good morning class,” Miss Hopkins said while entering the classroom. “I see the game has started again. You know the rules. Please put your ropes away.” The right row obeyed. “Thank you. Now let’s continue with Gulliver’s Travels. You should have the chapter where Gulliver arrives on Lilliput. Can someone explain why I think most of you’ve enjoyed that chapter?”

A couple grins followed, and Miss Hopkins could deduce who had read the required pages. In this chapter, Gulliver was restrained by the Lilliputians. Aiden had done his homework, so he didn’t have to face the inevitable speech about its importance. He could listen without having to fear being kept somewhere against his wishes. There would be no detention or abduction for him. Jenna watched him.

[ArrestedForever]

Still enjoying this story. The anticipation of kidnaps at any moment is exciting!

[Mineira1986]

Good chapter, creating more anticipation! It's making me anxious to know what's about to come.

[lasse672000]

Awsome town to live in, I think. Must be bit tiresome having to watch over your shoulder all the time.

[Beaumains]

3. A welcome break.

The rest of Miss Hopkins’ class wasn’t memorable. Aiden could relax since capturing him here was impossible. The school turned a blind eye when a student was away for some hours. They would receive extra homework and be quizzed in the following class. So they wouldn’t fall behind their peers. But teachers established order as usual. After a substantial disturbance, for example, a kidnapping in plain sight, detention followed.

After the school bell had rung, Aiden grabbed his bag and checked his phone. He saw two notifications from the Arkalay Youth app. According to the first, a junior had been kidnapped. Aiden assumed she was taken on her way to school and wouldn’t move for the rest of the day. This made Aiden smile. He hadn’t been kidnapped first this cycle.

The other message described a challenge. A few times a week, the game board issued a dare or game for those in the frontline. They ranged from going to a specific point and being restrained for some time, to bicycle races and boardgame nights. In short, needless risks with a chance of being kidnapped. Being locked in your own house all day wasn’t dramatic. This spiced the game up a little.

Targets and their protectors earned points with these dares. Their scores were visible for all involved, and fame in the game depended on them. Jobs in the youth government and the game board were often awarded to fanatical players. Evading kidnapping for long, being successful as a protector, and abducting gave points too. But being taken quickly would lose them. In the last couple of months, Aiden and his sister had earned many. This was one of the few perks of being on the frontline the whole time.

This message dared each protector to spend the lunch blindfolded. This was a typical dare since it exposed all targets to a higher risk of being stolen. Aiden judged the reward and risk weren’t gigantic, but they existed. His protection would be increased, but the hazard remained. One wrong move would end his freedom for today. Also, if Jenna removed her blindfold half-way, there would be no points at all. She wasn’t allowed to see outside the classroom at all.

“Have you seen the new challenge?” Aiden asked Jenna while they left the classroom with their escort. Many Northerners followed them, so they stepped hand-in-hand. Jenna had to be pulled away before Aiden could be neutralized with a flower garland.

“Yeah, it appears doable, but comes at a risk. Upper management is planning a strategy at the moment. If we take part is up to them,” Jenna replied stoically. Her loyalty to Riverbend was unconditional. The points each team scored were added every month. During Responsibility Day, all wore the winners’ colors, so Riverbend oversaw their choice. Many points could be obtained by having everyone take part. By letting none do it, they could kidnap a few as they needed less defensive resources.

“It’s your call. You’re the one being blindfolded.” Aiden continued. “Please stop, Aiden,” Jenna said firmly. “I couldn’t care less about that blindfold. If I’ve to do it, I will. My team will take care of me. Besides, it isn’t my choice alone. If it goes wrong, you’ll spend the night duct-taped in a sleeping bag.” Northwood members circling them tried eavesdropping them. Aiden called Jenna’s bluff. It would be scary for her to be blind and liable for him at the same time. In reality, she didn’t want to do this at all.

They arrived safely at their next classroom, and Jenna received a sky-blue strip of fabric. She put this blindfold in her bag. This wasn’t a sign she would use it, only that the possibility was open. Riverbend’s plan would stay secret as long as possible, and even Jenna wasn’t briefed yet.

Nothing unusual happened for the rest of the morning. The trips between the classes were short, leaving Aiden’s foes no chance.

At the end of their last class, Jenna bound the blindfold over her eyes. She searched for Aiden’s hand and grabbed it. One Riverbend member picked up her backpack while the rest grouped around them. While Aiden guided her, they replaced the safe classroom for the crowded hallways. Their Northwood classmates stayed close to keep the pressure high.

“We’re coming for you, Aiden,” one said. “Watch your steps, Jenna. It would be a shame if you tripped,” another noted. All laughed while Jenna was visibly uneased. Northwood knew it would be hard to get Aiden this break. During these dares, only one or two more than usual were taken. So even Jenna taking off her blindfold would be a victory. Then Riverbend received fewer points. Since Aiden had to endure this too, he was scared. Still, he was glad he could see. Jenna’s position was less desirable. The aim was to get her to quit.

Despite Northwood and tricky stairs, Aiden and Jenna reached the canteen. They were guided to the side filled by Riverbend. One of them took Aiden’s rucksack and told him to enter the queue. According to the school rules, everyone could only buy lunch once and only for themselves.

Aiden and Jenna waited in the gradual advancing row. No-one would dare it while they stood here hand-in-hand, Aiden thought. For Jenna, it was an odd conversation with the lunch-lady, but she wasn’t put off. Jenna wasn’t the first blind person she had served today.

On the way back, Jenna kept her serving tray pressed against Aiden’s back. She needed two hands to handle it. Aiden required all his attention to keep a steady pace and find their table. He noted no Riverbend had their hands free to help them. So he had to do this on his own.

Out of nowhere, something was draped around Aiden’s neck. He glanced down and saw green paper flowers. When he lifted his head, an unknown boy motioned him to be silent and come with him. According to the rules, Aiden had to obey him. Jenna’s serving tray left his back while he stepped aside. Aiden felt apathetic about this. He wasn’t allowed to think for himself anymore and had to comply. He had been taken often enough to know when he had to lock his feelings out.

“Jenna!” someone yelled while Aiden was about two feet away. Of course, many had noted the attempt. They wanted to help, but Jenna was the sole one who could save him. She had to touch him. Aiden’s arm was grabbed, urging him to hurry. “My lunch!” Aiden thought internally, while one of his carrots fell on the floor.

A second later, Aiden’s felt a fierce impact in his back, succeeded by a kick against his ankles. Screaming followed. Aiden turned around and saw a still blindfolded Jenna had kicked him. Due to her rush forward, her tray no longer carried her yogurt and utensils. “You’re lucky, but I hoped you’d cooperated better. It was close,” the boy in green said while grudgingly removing the garland. Aiden knew he had obeyed the rules. He would have no case if he wanted to bring it to the game court. Everyone had seen him.

“That was close,” Jenna voiced while panic left her voice. She was panting from fear. “Thanks,” Aiden replied while noting two other carrots had fallen too. He didn’t know what to say. Both could relax now since Aiden couldn’t be taken for the next minute. This was the sole price Northwood had to pay for their attempt. The one-minute-rule clarified when one was captured. The alternative, deducting points for botched tries, would reduce the number of abductions. That would be dull.

Aiden spotted Jenna’s and his bag on a table that they joined. Two other targets, their blindfolded protectors, and various Riverbend members sat here too. So they sat down and started eating after Jenna had received clean utensils.

This wasn’t easy when blindfolded. At least Northwood kept their distance, Aiden noticed. Both teams had blindfolded all their protectors, so he wasn’t particularly vulnerable. Both wanted to get points now. Jenna’s main problem now was how to prick her fork in a carrot such that it wouldn’t roll away.

Aiden saw Jenna showed her pride at the moment. She didn’t complain, let alone ask his help. She was silent, requiring her concentration to eat and think about what just happened. There was no time for small-talk. After Aiden was finished, Jenna needed ten more minutes. That didn’t matter as they were told to sit here until the end of the break. Aiden tried to open the conversation but had no luck. So he took his phone and saw Riverbend had taken a freshman. They had had a great start so far.

The brief walk to the classroom was terrifying. This was Northwood’s last chance to abduct a vulnerable Aiden. Many surrounded his relatively small escort. Ten sophomores had to help them to be able to move forward. They were hustled around and had trouble to hold onto their hands. Fortunately, they reached the classroom, where Jenna removed her blindfold. She smiled proudly at him, knowing it had been close. Aiden returned her smile, knowing his problems weren’t over yet. He had only survived thirteen hours so far, and most had been during the night.

[Mineira1986]

Wow, that was close for Aiden! Great chapter.

[Feet20]

This story is great so far. Can't wait for more.

[slackywacky]

Maybe I should move
Thanks for posting.

[Beaumains]

Thanks for the comments!

[Beaumains]

4. Time to talk

The rest of Aiden’s school day was uneventful. Dull classes, combined with tight security, didn’t allow any spectacle to form around him. According to the app, two more children had been taken during the break: one by each faction. So four of the 39 children were kidnapped. Only 24 targets remained because the abductees’ siblings and neighbors of couldn’t be taken.

Just after three o’clock, Aiden’s day was over. Lilian and Nigel both had another class, so some other juniors drove Jenna and him home. They spent the four hundred yard ride in silence. When they stopped at Aiden’s place, Jenna escorted him to his front door. Although they didn’t detect any Northwood members, they could hide in the garden. Aiden would be safe inside because breaking in was still illegal. As long as his family didn’t let anyone in, no-one could take him.

“Thanks for protecting me today, Jenna! Without you, I wouldn’t be here.” Aiden said while unlocking the front door.

“You’re welcome. It was close, but we made it. That was our top priority,” Jenna replied with a rare smile, content her hard work and risks had paid off.

“Yeah, I thought it was over when I got that garland. It wasn’t very graceful, but you saved me.”

Jenna blushed. “Haha, I thought Riverbend surrounded us. You can bet our command was furious on the blokes who had to be there. I was lucky to be still on time. I hope my kick didn’t hurt you too much,” she said while leaning against the doorpost. “I hated that blindfold. It was frightening, frustrating, and thrilling. Walking through the school while being pushed, intimidated, and unable to see was terrific. Thanks for allowing me to be your protector. I wouldn’t want to have missed that for the world.”

Now it was Aiden’s turn to redden. His eyes traveled to the keychain in his hand. Jenna wasn’t the ruthless Riverbend soldier anymore and seemed to open up. During her protection duties, she had always been rigid and strict; jests or jokes were out of the question. The rest of the time, they didn’t talk much. Their friend groups never mixed, and there was never a cause for them to chat. They acknowledged each other existence during the game, and now, she shared a feeling with him.

“Eh, would you like tea?” Aiden proposed. He felt dumb directly after the words had left his mouth. “We could discuss tomorrow’s tactics. I think there’re still some improvements to make,” he said, hoping to fix his slip. “Nigel can take you home when he delivers Lilian here, so you wouldn’t have to walk.”

To Aiden’s surprise, Jenna accepted his offer after a moment of thought. She walked back to the car, seized her bag, and joined Aiden in the hallway. After locking the door, they hung their jackets on the coatrack and stepped into the kitchen.

“Please sit down,” Aiden said while pointing at the barstools next to their high kitchen table. He lighted the kettle and took the chair opposite of Jenna. He hadn’t planned for this situation, so he stared into her weary eyes, unsure what to say.

They exchanged grins, and Aiden examined Jenna consciously for the first time. Ice-blue eyes were sunk deep in her small, slender face that wasn’t affected by the acne. A tiny miracle, considering her age. Only two modest clumps of freckles coated her cheeks. Her mascara was the only make-up Aiden could spot. The blindfold had stirred it, and Jenna hadn’t had a chance to fix it in a bathroom. Her shoulder-long, blonde hair was bound in a ponytail and had dropped into the cap of her navy blue hoodie. Jenna wasn’t long with her 5 feet. If one combined that with her thin body, one questioned why she played a bodyguard.

“So, what sort of strategy you wanted to discuss?” Jenna spoke, breaking the silence. Aiden felt his unintelligent gaze had been spotted.

“Eh, well. You always appear to be my Riverbend protector. Plenty of others could do it too, but it’s always you. I’m curious why?” Aiden said, far from satisfied with his word choice. He blamed his nerves for his untactful approach.

Jenna made eyes with Aiden before guiding them to the fruit basket between them. “Yeah, we should have told you. Sorry. Around New Year, we decided to assign fixed protectors to all in the heart of the Battlefield. Since we share most of our classes, I volunteered to be yours. The few times I had guarded you before had been a success. So for me, this was a natural choice and we turned out to be a great team. Most others were less successful because many protectors were soon fed up with their targets. Doing this is exhausting and requires a lot of personal sacrifices, so they couldn’t do this daily. The system failed, but I continued since it ran smoothly. I should have informed you.”

“Thanks, that explains a lot. Also, thanks for staying with me. It’s tough for me, but even worse for you. You’ve to change your schedule for me,” Aiden replied, both flattered and uncomfortable.

“Yeah, this is weird. Again, sorry, but I like my job. It’s challenging, and sometimes I question why I’m doing it. Moments like today with the blindfold, are why I continue. It’s exciting and scary,” Jenna said with a big smile, trying to save the conversation.

“Yeah, I can believe that. I was thinking about this in the past few weeks. Thanks for the explanation. It’s good to know something about you. I mean, we spent a lot of time together these days. Today we held our hands half a break while you’re a blank sheet for me. I don’t know where you live, have siblings, or what you do on Responsibility Day. You know my schedule and family while we never even talked.”

Aiden sighed. More words had escaped his mouth than he had fancied. His frustration from always being left in the dark surfaced. He hadn’t aimed to blow up toward Jenna.

Jenna gazed at him in shock and took a deep breath, digesting Aiden’s words. “Yeah, you’re right. I’ve been a bit weird around you. I’m so sorry,” she said shortly after. “I love the game, and like most protectors, want a good score to get cool duties in my junior or senior year.” Jenna paused for a second. “However, I’ve to admit it isn’t the sole reason. I also...” Jenna said before the cries of the kettle interrupted her.

Aiden rushed to turn it off. He poured the boiling water into two glasses, added his favorite red bush tea, and placed them with a box of chocolate chip cookies on the table.

“What I was trying to say, Aiden,” Jenna continued after taking a sip of tea. “I cherish our collaboration because it works so well. I like you despite being sometimes a bit bitchy. I’ve protected many, but with you, it always works out since you listen. Today, only eight duos completed the dare, and we were among them. It was scary but bloody exciting.”

Aiden sat still with a loss of words. He was almost forced in this position, but Jenna volunteered for this. The entire break, she had looked frightened, and he hadn’t expected her to adore it. What’s more, she liked him too. Not long ago, he felt stalked due to Jenna’s revelations, but Aiden wasn’t uneased anymore. Her openness and courage to tell this encouraged him to take another risk.

“I can blindfold you again if you want. I promise you won’t have to worry about me walking away,” Aiden said with a laugh. It was meant as a joke, but secretly he hoped Jenna would call his bluff.


Author’s note:

When I started this story, I aimed to create a playful, semi-coherent community where TUGs were wildly accepted and part of life. All tales I know where this is tried are places with legal slavery. They are often too extreme for my taste. Now I hope to have established this, I am unsure how I will continue.
My current plan is to follow Aiden for one month to show what life in Arkalay looks like. So there will be a description of “Responsibility Day” at the end. Now, the story is still in its “kidnap” phase. I tried to create tension in the first couple of chapters, but I can’t keep that up for long. In a longer timeframe, Aiden has to be kidnapped a few times or always survive miraculously, causing the tension to vanish.
I hope to solve this with dares, a subplot with Jenna, and whatever twist comes to my mind, but I haven’t committed to anything yet. I have many small ideas, but not a lot is concrete.
So my question to you is, what do you hope for/expect in this story? What kind of TUG elements and dares do you want? What aspects of life in Arkalay are you missing so far?

[Mineira1986]

Good chapter. I love when the stories build up the characters, even if it means a pause to the tie-up games. It just set it better for the future.

So, when the story began, I was kind of expecting it would go in parallel stories:

1) One about the kidnap game, which is the one about Jenna and Aiden.
2) One about kids restraining their older relatives and friends, maybe having some revenge from previous years (like the one mentioned by Micheal in chapter one I think).
3) One about a family coming to visit Arkalay for Responsability Day.

About the last two, I was hoping it could exploit the fact that adults have to be restrained when in public. Maybe one parent or older sibbling speak up and has to be gagged against his/her will and then the children decide to go for walk with the entire family, for some quality time together hehe.

And about Aiden and Jenna's story, I love how the characters are developing. So perhaps to add another boy/girl from Northwood that has some background story with those two, and see how they interact during the kidnappings and during Responsability Day.

This story has great potential and I would really like to see how it goes. Keep up the good work!

[Beaumains]

Thanks for your reply!

Good chapter. I love when the stories build up the characters, even if it means a pause to the tie-up games. It just set it better for the future.

Thanks! But it won't take long before the tugs return

One about kids restraining their older relatives and friends.

One about a family coming to visit Arkalay for Responsability Day

This only happens during Responsibility Day itself. I don't really want to skip toward it, so it will take some time until that stage is reached. But I will try to add more flashbacks/stories about that throughout the story.

maybe having some revenge from previous years

I am not sure how that will work out. Do you want that parents tie their children somehow? I don't think it is in anyone's interest to have an escalating tie-up war. I had in mind that Responsibility Day was more of a playful event.
Maybe having parents use ties to discipline their children when they are annoying would work.

adults have to be restrained when in public

Again, this will happen eventually. I had planned to add some references/flashbacks where this occurs in the next chapter.

Maybe one parent or older sibbling speak up and has to be gagged against his/her will and then the children decide to go for walk with the entire family, for some quality time together hehe

Brilliant! I can see if I can use this or a similar idea. Thanks a lot!

So perhaps to add another boy/girl from Northwood that has some background story with those two, and see how they interact during the kidnappings and during Responsability Day.

Yeah, I will introduce some others later on. It might take some time, and I don't want to have more characters for the sake of having them.

[Beaumains]

5. Unforeseen stories

The icy-blue eyes in front of Aiden flashed up while the pink lips formed a devilish smile. Jenna had understood the euphemism. In a matter of seconds, she regained her exhausted poker face, causing Aiden to fear she had developed second thoughts.

“Eh, Aiden. I’d love to, and it sounds fun. It’s creepy, as I don’t know you well, but that isn’t a fair excuse. You’re kidnapped every other week and never complain. No, I still haven’t finished geometry for tomorrow and have to work on that. I hope you understand. Sorry, maybe tomorrow?”

“Nah, I will help you tonight. No problem. Besides, if Lilian or I am taken tomorrow, we might not talk for weeks.” Aiden replied, trusting her twinkling eyes she wasn’t making up a white lie.

“Yeah, you’re correct. I won’t sacrifice my evening for one stupid homework assignment.” Jenna said before chugging the rest of her tea.

Aiden followed her example and texted his mom if Jenna could stay for dinner. This was OK, so they walked to Aiden’s bedroom on the first floor that was designed as a studying and sleeping space. His bed, desk, and wardrobe occupied most space while the light grey walls, shaggy black carpet, and crimson bed sheets made it monotonous. A bit dreary, some would say. The scarce color was provided by movie posters, a bookcase with action figures, and a coatrack with neat bundles of ropes arranged by color.

It was well known Arkalay’s kids tied each other up, so Aiden could store his ropes in plain sight. Everyone had them. Many more lay in the garage, but thirty were enough for most practical purposes.

“The bed is yours,” Aiden said. Jenna complied after handing him her sky blue blindfold. She offered her head to Aiden, who bound the ribbon over her eyes, but under her ponytail. He saw no need to restrict it.

“It’s a while ago since someone bound me for the first time. My two little brothers always hogtie me because I escape otherwise. So it gets old quickly and hurts when they aren’t careful. When I was younger, my friends and I bound each other often too. Like the big children did, we said.” Jenna giggled while reminiscing about those times. “That never occurs anymore. Everyone is focused on school and the game nowadays. How could we ever top kidnappings and those challenges?”

“I won’t promise I will do so, but I will entertain you at least,” Aiden replied from the other side of the bedroom. This confused Jenna since his socks made him silent on the carpet. “Yeah, that’s the biggest difference with middle school. The game dictates my entire life. Lilian and I do all those challenges and get kidnapped often, so we don’t fancy tying each other up anymore. My parents and guests are the only ones who touch my ropes anymore.” Aiden continued wistfully. The playfulness and innocence of their childhood years were no more. The tie-ups now lacked the child-like creativity that made them great. They had become routine.

Aiden unwinded four of his crystal blue ropes and requested Jenna to grab her ankles. This made it evident to her what his plan was. An Arkalay native her age couldn’t be overwhelmed with a new tie anymore. Aiden bound her wrists to the outside of her ankles over her black jeans. Two more ropes around her legs and ankles forced her forearms and lower legs to remain parallel. This caused Jenna’s back to bend forward and her head to disappear behind her knees. With little effort, she kept her balance with her feet and bum.

Aiden took a step back and watched his creation for a moment. His tie was far from inescapable but would keep her busy. He had picked it since he only had to touch Jenna’s limbs. He didn’t want to let her feel uncomfortable while being tied.

“Is this all you got?” Jenna said with a mischievous smile, aware of Aiden’s nerves and him holding back.

“I didn’t want to frighten you. If you want more, I gladly oblige,” Aiden laughed while seizing a roll duct tape from his bookcase. He grasped Jenna’s feet again and taped her fingers to her soles with four tight windings. Escape was no longer a certainty for Jenna.

“As you confirmed yourself, I know nothing about you. So I give you one simple task to help me with this. Speak for minimal fifteen minutes about yourself. If you pause too often or stop too early, your next try will be less comfortable. I won’t stat of how long you have talked whatsoever. That’s your problem. Surprise me!”

Aiden closed the door, sat down on the other side of the room, and waited for Jenna to begin. She would receive no feedback at all. Aiden wouldn’t move or say anything while the blindfold gave her no facial expressions to work with. This was a nightmare scenario for many, worse than public speaking. Especially when her assignment was the open question: Talk about yourself. Not knowing if she did well, how long she had talked, and where her audience was, were unhelpful.

After a few seconds, Jenna realized she had to start. “So, eh, I was born in Arkalay. I’ve lived in the same house ever since, together with my parents and nine-year-old twin brothers. Oh, and we have two cute dogs, Blue Lacies, named Lily and Jane.” Jenna spoke way faster than necessary, fearing Aiden’s punishment. “Is that what you want me to do?”

It stayed silent from Aiden’s side. “Oh, right, so you aren’t going to say anything? Not cool, Aiden. But sure, I will continue.” Jenna returned from behind her knees.

“You also wanted to know what I do during Responsibility Day, didn’t you?” Jenna stated way slower than before. “Well, I am one of those persons who teaches tie-up classes to our guests. In my case, I teach fifteen third-graders how to restrain their parents with some senior. We use scarves, bandannas, and some weak tape, so it isn’t the real deal. They cannot do much with ropes, you see. Way too technical and hard to do it pleasantly. Most parents play along and have a great time, so that is great. But when they don’t behave, we tie them ourselves. Then they can’t free themselves anymore.” A tiny giggle from Jenna followed.

Aiden listened carefully, knowing her job choice revealed a lot about her.

“We teach one group the entire day, so we can’t entertain them with knots alone. They get bored after an hour or two, so we teach third-grade stuff to embarrass the parents. The handwriting of many dads is hideous. Spelling and arithmetic are also always miserable for most adults. Even basic history and topography trivia generate situations that give many parents massive problems. The kids receive a lot of confidence as they know all these things. So the parents have to handle a little humiliation. The little ones are in charge and get a lot of freedom. For example, they can go to the toilet any time they want, while their parents have to ask permission. As you might expect, they usually have to wait.”

Jenna talked sluggish with long pauses between sentences. This broke the rules, in Aiden’s opinion. So he stood up and removed a half broomstick from his wardrobe. Jenna had heard him and in panic summed up a couple fun moments from the last few years.

Only, it was too late, and Aiden began tying the wooden pole between Jenna’s wrists. This leg spreader kept her ankles two and a half feet apart, a lot considering her length and position of her arms.

Aiden noticed Jenna paused while he tied her. “Jenna, please continue. Now speak at a normal pace. You owe me another five minutes of talking,” Aiden said firmly. Jenna excused herself and changed the subject.

“Afterward, around four o’clock, I go home and wait until the school bus delivers my mom and little brothers. We never have guests because those little brats are so young. So I have to do everything. My mom is on the city council, so she is free during Responsibility Day and has to be tied and cared for. Only two months ago, my two little brothers turned nine, so they can bind her now. As you know, you’ve to be nine before being allowed to do so without explicit consent. They’ve waited for years, and I’ve to keep them in check. The first time, I found my mom hogtied in our dog cage covered by some blankets. That was not cool. So it takes about two hours to cook dinner because I have to watch my brothers too. Luckily, they do the dishes in return.”

Jenna continued describing her typical Responsibility Day. Little details gave Aiden a good impression of her and her family. His plan worked a lot better than expected, and Jenna seemed to enjoy it as well. She grinned during some of her own anecdotes and despite her position, was lost in her own story. To Aiden’s surprise, she also dared to describe some of her middle school tie-up adventures. They featured many girls he knew, reminding Aiden how outlandish this town was. Everyone tied each other up for fun. He was glad he grew up in Arkalay.

“…, so then we untied her after her mom called us, yelling dinner was getting cold. It was a shame, it was a fun day, and we could keep her tied there for much longer. Yeah, that was good. I don’t think I’ve much more to say. Is this enough?”

Aiden saw Jenna had spoken for slightly more than eighteen minutes. Due to the extra five minutes, she had come close, but she didn’t make it. So Jenna had worked hard enough to complete the dare in Aiden’s eyes. “That was twenty-two minutes. Well done!” Aiden told her while resetting the stopwatch. Jenna would never know about this.

Aiden removed the tape from Jenna’s hands and soles. Small giggles escaped his mouth while explaining the second part of Jenna’s tie. “You said you can always escape anything that isn’t a hogtie. Your hands are free, and as you know, this isn’t a good position to keep a prisoner. Let’s see what you can do. Have fun!”

Jenna laughed. “Those are my little brothers’ knots, and they haven’t tied me in ages. I bet they have improved a lot since last year. Not cool, Aiden. Not cool.” Jenna said before launching her escape attempt. Her spirits were still high, and Aiden could tell she liked this surprise.

[Mineira1986]

Good chapter! I don't even know where to start:

“We teach one group the entire day, so we can’t entertain them with knots alone. They get bored after an hour or two, so we teach third-grade stuff to embarrass the parents. The handwriting of many dads is hideous. Spelling and arithmetic are also always miserable for most adults. Even basic history and topography trivia generate situations that give many parents massive problems. The kids receive a lot of confidence as they know all these things. So the parents have to handle a little humiliation. The little ones are in charge and get a lot of freedom. For example, they can go to the toilet any time they want, while their parents have to ask permission. As you might expect, they usually have to wait.”

This is great! I would totally want to read some of this in the future.

The first time, I found my mom hogtied in our dog cage covered by some blankets. That was not cool.

Is that... I don't know... legal in Arkalay? Hehe, I know it may be wrong, but I loved it. Even if that wasn't cool from the children, I can only wonder Jenna's mom just had to go with it because of Responsability Day's rules and couldn't do anything about it!


I really like the way the story goes on and we readers get to learn a lot more of Arkalay with each chapter. This story is becoming one of my favourites. Great job!

[Beaumains]

Thanks!

Is that... I don't know... legal in Arkalay? Hehe, I know it may be wrong, but I loved it. Even if that wasn't cool from the children, I can only wonder Jenna's mom just had to go with it because of Responsability Day's rules and couldn't do anything about it!

As long as the children don't lock the cage, it is perfectly legal. What isn't legal is leaving Jenna's mom there on her own. They are responsible .
But I can tell you, being hogtied (and likely gagged) with her head resting on a dirty, hairy dog pillow isn't her preferred way to spend the afternoon.

[Beaumains]

6. Aiden’s turn

Jenna struggled against her bonds but was smart enough not to throw herself against the ropes, Aiden observed. She was familiar with escaping ties, he concluded by her serene manipulation of the knots. This didn’t surprise Aiden, but he thought this tactic was dull. So he stood up, took the broomstick, and lifted it up at once, forcing Jenna backward. Now she lay on her bend back with only one contact with the bed.

“Aiden, you’ll pay for this!” Jenna chuckled with a broad smile on her face.

“You’ll have to get me first.”

“Oh, don’t worry about that,” she replied calmly before getting silent. She had to concentrate to work on Aiden’s knots.

Fifteen minutes later, Jenna sat puffing on a pile of ropes. Even at a slow pace, these games were exhausting. She stretched her legs and took a more natural sitting position at the bedside before removing the blindfold. Aiden joined her and gave her a pat on her back to compliment her for getting out.

“That was fun. Thanks, Aiden. I loved it, but next time, make it more challenging. Your ties are even weaker than my little brothers. Just joking, but you should be able to be better,” Jenna said with a wink.

“Be glad I removed the tape around your hands. Otherwise, you’d still be struggling. I was going easy on you, and now I doubt I’ll gift you such mercy another time.”

“Oh, I don’t need your mercy, Aiden,” Jenna laughed, unsure if she wanted to taunt Aiden some more. She knew he could tie her up effortless without any possibility to escape. The knots had been near her hands this afternoon. A classic rookie mistake a fifteen-year-old would never make in Arkalay.

“So, Aiden, you just tortured me a little, and I’ve been honest to you and told you everything. I knew somewhat more about you, but not as much as you do of me now. It’s your turn, don’t you think?”

“Dinner is in twenty minutes,” Aiden said while checking his phone. “I don’t mind, but we haven’t much time.”

“That sucks, so turn around now. Let’s do this quickly,” Jenna said while grabbing an icy blue rope.

Aiden placed his hands behind his back and accepted the blindfold before his wrists were tied and cinched. This alone was inescapable without help or a knife already. No leftover rope bungled down, and Aiden could only touch it since the beginning and end were out of his reach.

“Your turn, same rules,” Jenna said. “I know some about you, so you’ve to talk for only ten minutes. Please tell me what you do during Responsibility Day and about your history with tying. If you stop talking, I won’t give you more time since we have none. Instead, I won’t untie you, so you’ve to do it yourself or ask one of your family members.” A giggle escaped her mouth. “I’d talk if I were you.”

Aiden sighed. Walking down blindfolded and begging to be untied would be embarrassing. Knowing his family, they wouldn’t comply without demanding some favor in return, so he wanted to avoid this scenario.

“My Responsibility Days aren’t often exciting,” Aiden started. “This year, I teach a programming class for adults from Arkalay. The mayor said there was some interest, so some other battlefield senior and I started a python course. Now we’ve two two-hour classes in the morning, each with fifteen Arkalay adults. It’s pretty basic, but still fun to do.”

Aiden explained most students were interested and motivated to learn, but it was a lot harder than they had thought. They progressed slower than they had expected and were less able to use Google and Stackexchange. It was amusing but exhausting. Since they had to come up with the exercises and notes themselves, it cost a lot of time.

Aiden continued by telling he spent the afternoon with his father and some of his guests, doing whatever the guests had planned. He toured them the town (of course, the adults were restrained), told them about his daily life, or showed them more knots. Whatever they fancied. His mom worked outside of town and got home just before dinner. In the evening, they played tie-up games in the living room.

“Now I’ve bored you with programming, we can move on to my tie-up history. I was six, and Lilian was eight when Responsibility Day was introduced. My mom revealed she had played tie-up games in her youth, so she knew her knots. Due to our headstart, it took less than a month before we knew ten different ways to tie someone. We used scarves for the same reasons you use them in your classes, and bot Lilian and I got high marks. At home, I was often tied in these weeks. I didn’t mind. Luckily, Lilian has always been nice and didn’t bully me in being her victim every time. She was much stronger than me back then, but allowed me to tie her too.”

“As you might remember, the city hired a couple bondage instructors when we were in first grade. This was around the time the arrangement with guests was introduced. If the kids couldn’t or disliked tying, there would be no point for guests to come, and their money would stay home. So they offered us these lessons. Now I look back it at, they were BDSM types who had never taught kids before. No idea what the city was thinking, and why the contract was accepted, but I glad they did.”

“Those weeks were fun. I learned many words first graders never hear,” Jenna giggled, breaking her silence.

“Like many kids, my friends and I started to experiment with tying each other,” Aiden said, not responding to Jenna. “First, when our parents observed us, later in the woodlands surrounding Arkalay. Cops and robbers, Cowboys and Indians, and Capture the Flag were our favorite games. Around age ten, we mastered ropes and could tie our parents during Responsibility Day inescapable. Those were the good days.”

“Now go on to the interesting stuff. So far, you’ve told me nothing news,” Jenna said, interrupting Aiden again.

“Sorry, Jenna. Whatever you want. As I said, my mom knows a bit about ropes, so we tied each other often at home. One summer, I think I was eleven, we went camping in the middle of nowhere next to some long-forgotten river for a week. Most of the day we hiked, fished, read, and tied each other up. You’d be surprised how wildlife treats you if you can’t move or talk. No-one was around, and there wasn’t much else to do. It was family bonding. Most nights, at least half of us slept bound, and we drove back with Lilian and me in the trunk. You can guess how. Best vacation ever.”

“Your parents play these games with you?” Jenna asked aghast.

“Yeah, they do,” Aiden replied. “They love them. After each Responsibility Day, we choose a weekend day where Lilian and I can tie them up for some family time without annoying guests. Sometimes they tie us up too.”

“Mine always thought it was weird. They kinda accept it now I’m in high school. They dislike the bonds and Responsibility Day and stay here only because my brothers and I love it. You’re lucky, Aiden.” Jenna said.

“Dinner’s ready!” Aiden’s father screamed from downstairs.

“One minute!” Aiden replied. “So, are you going to untie me?”

“Not sure yet. Do you think you’ve deserved it?” Jenna laughed.

“That’s your call.”

“Great, see you downstairs,” Jenna said before standing up and leaving the room audibly.

“Jenna, don’t,” Aiden said, still unable to see due to the blindfold. Panic had entered his voice.

It stayed silent for ten seconds or so, causing Aiden to accept his fate. He stood up and walked out of his room. When he stepped over the doorstep, Jenna caught him and removed his blindfold.

“Sorry, I’m kidding. It was awesome, Aiden. You deserved your freedom,” Jenna said while untying him. She tossed the ropes back on his bed before they went downstairs to their well-deserved meal. A broad smile rested on her face.

[Mineira1986]

Great chapter! The way Jenna and Aiden are bonding together, getting to know each other while playing little tie-up games is beautiful.

Also, I like the way you include some elements such as being left hogtied in a dog cage (although, now we know Jenna's mother is definitely not into it), sleeping tied up and gagged while camping, or going home in a car trunk (maybe tied and gagged as well?). The fact that these elements are present in the story in such a playful and not harmful way for the participants is really great!

[Beaumains]

Also, I like the way you include some elements such as...

Yeah, it is fun to come up with these mini scenes. I will try to adding them throughout the story, if I have enough inspiration.

(maybe tied and gagged as well?)

I think this was implied. Yeah, they were tied and gagged. (Of course, safely, their parents checked up with them, etc.)
------------------------
7. The Photo Assignment

Wednesday, April 24th, 1 PM

Dear fellow Arkalians,

This afternoon, at 4:30 PM, a photo assignment will start with the theme Suspensions. Ten descriptions and locations will be posted here, detailing how and where a duo of a target and a protector should be restrained. Pictures can be uploaded in this app on their behalf, and they can appear in multiple photos. Each submission should feature a duo:
- eligible to be abducted;
- in the described age group;
- wearing the correct clothing;
- on the exact location;
- restrained as detailed.
Although a member of the game board will examine each of these conditions on location, the photo should also be taken and submitted. Points are awarded to the first photo in each category that fulfills all criteria.

Remember, the targets can be abducted at any time. Suspensions are NOT without risk. The safety and well-being of all involved is our top priority. Hence, there are special rules for this dare. They can be found here. Each violation will be brought to the game court, leading to a point deduction or a ban from the game.

Best of luck,
the game board

Aiden read the message twice. He knew this dare would make him vulnerable, and he would have little choice than to obey his orders. He would be restricted tightly this afternoon. No matter what.

“What do you think?” Aiden asked Jenna while they were surrounded by Riverbend protection.

“Sounds fun,” she replied after she had chewed a bite of her sandwich away. “Three months ago, they did this too, but I didn’t take part since you were with Northwood. The theme was mummification. This is the first time I can take part as a protector. I’ll be suspended, something I haven’t done in quite some time. So for me, this is perfect.”

A gigantic smile filled Jenna’s face while reminding herself of the crazy reports of the last assignment. The photos were kept private, so she hadn’t seen any in real life, but the stories were fascinating already. Aiden was less content. He had lain mummified on a swimming tube in the middle of Arkalay Lake. It had scary since he couldn’t save himself and was blindfolded. The picture, taken with a drone, had been astonishing. The boat that had brought him there lay fifty yards away. A mummified boy on a swimming tube encircled by clear blue water had been the sole thing visible on the picture.

Aiden stayed silent while snatching another bite. He didn’t look forward to this. An afternoon with Jenna and being suspended was no issue. Even the fact that the tie would be quite intense didn’t concern him. The endless stress and being bossed around for his own safety did bother him. This put him in further danger, and about two hundred of Arkalay’s youth would aid each side. Many focused on the kidnappings, and last photo assignment there had been five. This would be the big dare of the week and one of the biggest of the month. There were many points to be earned, and Aiden couldn’t disappoint Riverbend. Then he could forget a decent job for the rest of his high school career.

Aiden was more relaxed than yesterday during the lunch break, but less motivated. Jenna smirked next to him, their knees and feet touching for safety reasons. He wanted to notify her but didn’t dare to do it with Riverbend around him. He didn’t want to take Jenna’s joy away or fail Riverbend. This stalemate could be over soon, and Aiden couldn’t wait to walk freely through the hallways. Their neighbor Katy could be abducted at any time, ending his time as a target.

Aiden sighed while his mind wandered to yesterday. After dinner, they had retreated to his room where Jenna had fastened him to his chair. His hands behind him with his fingers taped, rendering him helpless. Jenna had done her geometry homework while asking him to explain concepts or give hints once in a while. He watched her work while overthinking his life. Now, he concluded this was the moment he had lost his interest in the game. Tie-ups had lost their appeal.

It had been a relaxing evening of tie-ups for Aiden. Around eleven, Jenna had left. She had to walk home alone. He had offered to go with her, but it was deemed too risky. The next day, she had picked him up and escorted him to his classes. It had been tense, but with enough security, nothing could go wrong. The sole thing Northwood had taken from him was his freedom to move. In contrast, this evening would be nerve-racking, and Aiden wouldn’t receive any liberty at all.


Almost two and a half-hour later, at 3:30 PM, the school bell released Aiden and Jenna from their final class of the day. It had been turbulent. The teachers had had trouble quieting their students who argued about the upcoming dare. What were the locations? How did the lucky few targets and protectors have to be suspended? Only a couple game board members knew this, and they kept their mouths closed.

Habitually, all students checked their phones after the bell rang. This was strictly forbidden during classes, but it was necessary to stay updated. For the upcoming dare, they saw there were 24 active targets, twelve from each district. So both sides had about equal chances. Aiden and Jenna also did this and saw they had received their instructions for the upcoming dare.

Aiden and Jenna, I will be your driver during the photo assignment. Come to the parking lot behind the school to the dark brown Honda Civic. Let yourself be delivered by your protection. It is busy here. Those that go with us have received their own instructions. Try to hurry a little. Mitchell.

Aiden didn’t know who Mitchell was, so he checked his profile in the app. He was a Riverbend junior and had a decent record in the game. The dare would start in an hour, so Aiden didn’t perceive why they had to hurry. He guessed he would be safer in the car, and his protection could get to their own posts before the dare would start.

Aiden and Jenna found Mitchell in the brown car without any incidents. As always, Aiden checked his identity with the app before entering. There were two other girls in the car, and Aiden assumed they would protect him at the location. After Jenna had closed the door behind her, Mitchell locked the doors.

“Aiden and Jenna, good to see you. I’m Mitchell, as you might have guessed. We have little time to chat, so let’s get straight to the point,” Mitchel said while driving away.

“The strategy from Riverbend will differ from last time. You never know who reads your texts, so I have to admit I have lied to you. You will be stationed near the school as that is likely one of the locations. Northwood shouldn’t know you’re there, so we’ll let you disappear,” Mitchell continued. Aiden sighed internally, knowing the school would be a lot busier than a random spot in the forest.

To Aiden’s surprise, Mitchell drove to a small gravel road in the woods east of Arkalay. Another car was waiting here, and Mitchell ordered Aiden and Jenna to enter it. A boy and a girl similar to them took their places. Aiden and Jenna had to lie down before they were shrouded by a dark plaid. No-one told them what was going on, but they started to understand the plan.

They traded cars twice more before returning to the parking lot of the school. Here, they would wait for the remaining ten minutes. Their three companions stood outside, ignoring the two freshmen in the back of the car. Aiden heard nervous voices. He knew no-one would guess he lie here, holding Jenna’s hand.

“One more minute,” Jenna whispered. She was shaking from excitement and squeezing Aiden’s hand. A suspension location in the school meant they would run toward it with their drivers. Other Riverbend members would join them rapidly with rope and tape, hoping to get there fast. Both sides could tie their victims together, but being a couple minutes ahead was a massive advantage.

“Ten seconds,” Jenna muttered while watching the count down on their phones. Aiden saw the seconds tick away. In a couple seconds, he had to jump up and run to be suspended as fast as possible. He sighed and grabbed the side of the plaid. His sole motivation was his reputation and being able to sleep in his own bed tonight.