Date: Thu, 29 Feb 2024 03:51:38 -0700 From: tarzan Subject: Tarzan and the Dance of Dominance - Chapter 34 Disclaimer: I do not own Tarzan or related characters and am not making a profit from sharing this story here. The character was created by Edgar Rice Burroughs and is now in the public domain. Any similarity between the characters in this story and real people is entirely coincidental and incredibly hot. I always appreciate your feedback and would love to hear your ideas. Please support Nifty with donations of any size to help them provide a platform for so many fascinating stories. Please use this link to donate: http://donate.nifty.org/. Chapter 34: The Cruel Ballet-------------------------------- (c) tarzanstud1@gmail.com The midday sun hung high in the sky, casting long shadows across the estate. Mr. Blackwood and Alden sat in the shade of the grand porch, overlooking the lush grounds that would soon host the event of the year--the Alpha Ascension. A light breeze rustled the leaves, carrying with it the sweet scent of blooming flowers. The air was charged with anticipation, and Mr. Blackwood's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Jonathan," he began, his voice carrying a touch of theatricality, "this event must be nothing short of spectacular. We need to leave our guests breathless with anticipation." Alden, ever the astute gossip columnist, nodded in agreement. "Indeed, Mr. Blackwood. We must create a buzz that resonates far and wide. The Outpost's reputation is on the line." They sat in contemplative silence for a moment, each lost in thought. Then, Alden's eyes brightened with an idea. "What if we released teasers in the form of cryptic messages? Anonymously, of course, to add an air of mystery." Mr. Blackwood's eyes gleamed. "Yes, yes! A touch of enigma, a hint of intrigue. It will set their imaginations on fire. But what form should these messages take?" Alden tapped his pen against his notepad, deep in thought. "Perhaps riddles, or lines of poetry that hint at what awaits them. We could scatter them in various public spaces--cafes, libraries, parks. It will create a treasure hunt of sorts." Mr. Blackwood leaned back in his chair, a satisfied smile playing on his lips. "A treasure hunt indeed! And the prize? A ticket to the Alpha Ascension. Brilliant, Jonathan." Alden chuckled, pleased with the enthusiastic response. "And we mustn't forget the power of word of mouth. We'll encourage our readers to share their excitement, to spread the anticipation like wildfire." "Ah, the power of community," Mr. Blackwood mused. "It binds us, fuels our passions. And in this case, it will ignite the fervor for our event." They continued to brainstorm, their ideas flowing like a river. From themed invitations to tantalizing glimpses of the preparations, they left no stone unturned in their quest to build anticipation. As the afternoon sun began its descent, painting the sky in warm hues, Mr. Blackwood and Alden sat back, satisfied with their plans. The Alpha Ascension would be an event to remember, and its anticipation would be felt far and wide. With a final exchange of ideas, they rose from their seats, ready to set their plans into motion. The stage was set, the audience waiting, and the excitement for the Alpha Ascension was about to reach a fever pitch. * * * * * In the days that followed, the estate was abuzz with activity. Alden and Mr. Blackwood, fueled by their shared enthusiasm, set their plans into motion. They enlisted the help of the estate staff to discreetly distribute their teasers across the town. Alden, with his pen poised, began to craft riddles that would tantalize the curious minds of their readers. Each one carefully designed to hint at the wonders that awaited at the Alpha Ascension. He chuckled to himself, reveling in the cleverness of his own creations. Meanwhile, Mr. Blackwood wandered through the opulent halls of his club, contemplating the best way to add an air of mystique to the event. He decided to commission an artist to create an ornate, enigmatic invitation--an intricate design that whispered of secrets and hidden treasures. As the day of the teasers' release approached, a sense of anticipation settled over the estate. The staff worked diligently, ensuring that each message was placed in just the right spot. From cozy cafes to bustling markets, Alden and Mr. Blackwood's teasers began to appear, catching the eyes of the curious and the imaginative. The first teaser read: "Where shadows dance and whispers play, A secret awaits, not far away. In the heart of this town, a gem lies concealed, Seek it out, and your fate will be revealed." The riddles were accompanied by snippets of cryptic poetry, each line a breadcrumb leading the way. The townsfolk, their interest piqued, eagerly discussed the mysterious messages that had appeared overnight. Alden and Mr. Blackwood observed from a distance, their hearts swelling with pride at the success of their endeavor. The anticipation was building, like a crescendo before the grand performance. As the days passed, more teasers emerged, each one adding to the tapestry of intrigue that enshrouded the Alpha Ascension. The town's excitement grew, and soon, everyone was swept up in the thrill of the impending event. Alden and Mr. Blackwood knew that they had created something truly special, a testament to the magic that could be woven with a touch of mystery and a sprinkle of anticipation. * * * * * In the wake of their initial success, Blackwood and Alden went back to the drawing board. They needed to refocus their teasers to center on the enigmatic figure at the heart of the Alpha Ascension: Tarzan, the captured jungle king turned slave. After all, it was his story, his transformation, that had captivated the imaginations of their readers. Alden took up his pen once more, the ink flowing smoothly as he crafted new riddles and verses, each one designed to lead the curious directly to the heart of the event. He knew that in order to truly enthrall their audience, they needed to give them a taste of the extraordinary tale that awaited. The revised teasers began to appear around town, each one bearing the unmistakable mark of Tarzan. They whispered of a story that was both captivating and heart-wrenching, a tale of power and submission, of a mighty king brought low. One teaser read: "In the heart of the jungle, a king once stood tall, But fate had a different plan for them all. Now bound and enslaved, his spirit yet strong, At the Alpha Ascension, where he'll prove he belongs." Another teaser featured a haunting verse: "A crown once of leaves, now a loincloth so bare, A king's transformation, a soul laid bare. In the depths of submission, he'll find his true place, At the Alpha Ascension, his destiny to face." The teasers bore the image of Tarzan, captured in all his majestic glory. His eyes held a mixture of defiance and resignation, a silent challenge to those who would seek to test his newfound place in the world. As the revised teasers began to circulate, a new wave of anticipation swept through the town. The focus was now firmly on Tarzan, on the story of his transformation, and on the challenges that awaited at the Alpha Ascension. Blackwood and Alden watched the anticipation build with satisfaction, knowing that they had captured the essence of the Alpha Ascension and brought it to life in a way that would be remembered for generations to come. * * * * * The Publicity Push The sun hung high in the cloudless sky as Lord Harrington, Mr. Blackwood, and Jonathan Alden gathered in the shade of Harrington's luxurious villa. They sipped cool beverages and savored a selection of exotic fruits while discussing the final publicity push for the upcoming Alpha Ascension. "Tarzan," Lord Harrington mused, his aristocratic accent carrying the weight of centuries of privilege, "is the linchpin of this event. We need to maximize his exposure before the big day." Mr. Blackwood, a shrewd businessman with a knack for orchestrating the grandest spectacles, nodded in agreement. "Indeed, my lord. Tarzan's transformation from jungle king to a submissive slave is the heart of the show. We must ensure the entire town is buzzing with anticipation." Alden, the sharp-tongued gossip columnist who had unwittingly become a key player in this elaborate spectacle, leaned forward, his expressive eyes gleaming with excitement. "I couldn't agree more. Tarzan's journey, from the heights of his former glory to the depths of servitude, is the stuff of legends. We need to make it impossible for anyone to ignore." The trio contemplated their options, their minds racing with ideas to make Tarzan the talk of the town. Here's how their conversation unfolded: Harrington: "I've been mulling over the idea of a grand parade through the nearby villages. We'll construct a massive cage on wheels, a symbol of Tarzan's captivity, and he'll be inside it." Blackwood: "Excellent, my lord. A caged beast paraded through the streets. People will flock to witness the fallen king in all his humiliation." Alden: "But we need to add an element of spectacle to it, something that will keep everyone talking. What if, at intervals along the route, we have Tarzan pulled out of his cage and made to trot alongside it? His bound wrists and ankles, a leash held by mounted 'masters'--it would be a powerful image." Harrington: "That's a brilliant idea, Alden. It'll emphasize his submission and his helplessness. But what other displays can we incorporate?" Blackwood: "We could have staged demonstrations showcasing his obedience. Have him kneel before each 'superior' who approaches him." Alden: "And perhaps a public trial. We can have 'superiors' present 'evidence' of Tarzan's inferiority, make it as theatrical as possible. We could even include some riddles and puzzles for the crowd to solve." As they brainstormed, Lord Harrington, Mr. Blackwood, and Jonathan Alden outlined a grand plan that would captivate the imagination of the entire town. They discussed employing local artists to create larger-than-life banners depicting Tarzan's fall from grace, organizing mock auctions to reinforce his status as property, and even hiring musicians to compose a melancholic dirge to accompany the parade. The sun dipped lower in the sky as the three men continued to refine their strategy, determined to ensure that Tarzan's transformation from jungle king to submissive slave would be the spectacle of a lifetime. With each detail they added to their plan, it became evident that the Alpha Ascension would not merely be a single event but a multi-faceted extravaganza that would dominate the town's conversation and solidify Tarzan's new role as a symbol of submission and servitude. As they toasted to their ingenious publicity push, they couldn't help but smile, knowing that their audience was in for a show they would never forget. * * * * * Meanwhile, under the sweltering sun, Tarzan toiled in Lord Harrington's fields, his powerful muscles glistening with sweat as he pulled a plow behind him. The yoke around his shoulders strained as he harnessed his immense strength to plow the earth. His tattered loincloth clung to his sinewy body, revealing the contours of his well-defined muscles. Tarzan's chest heaved with each exertion, his bronzed skin glistening in the sunlight. Beads of sweat trickled down his chiseled abdomen and disappeared into the fabric of his loincloth, which clung provocatively to his form. Every movement he made accentuated the primal grace and strength that defined him. The overseer cracked his whip with precision, guiding Tarzan in his labor. Tarzan's back rippled with power as he pulled the plow through the stubborn soil, his bare feet digging into the earth for traction. Despite the grueling work, his determination never wavered. The distant voices of Lord Harrington, Mr. Blackwood, and Alden discussing his fate reached his ears, but he paid them no mind. His focus remained on the task at hand, each muscle working in harmony to complete the labor demanded of him. As Tarzan continued to toil in the fields, he served as a captivating and powerful spectacle, the strength of his spirit enduring even in the face of adversity. Under the hot sun, Tarzan toiled tirelessly, sweat glistening on his chiseled body. The muscles in his arms and back rippled with each powerful movement. His loincloth clung to him, revealing the contours of his physique. The overseer, a stern figure with a whip in hand, watched closely. With each yank of the plow, Tarzan's powerful legs flexed, and the muscles in his thighs and calves tightened. His loincloth, though simple in design, couldn't hide the impressive strength of his legs. The fabric swayed and danced with each step, emphasizing his natural grace and agility. The overseer occasionally cracked his whip, not to inflict pain, but to guide Tarzan's movements. Tarzan responded with a well-practiced precision, shifting the plow effortlessly through the earth. His keen instincts and physical prowess allowed him to anticipate the overseer's commands, making their collaboration efficient. As he worked, Tarzan's chest heaved with each breath, and his loincloth clung to his torso. His shirtless, near naked form revealed the gentle rise and fall of his pectoral muscles, showcasing their impressive definition. The overseer watched, impressed by Tarzan's strength and dedication to his tasks. Throughout the day, Tarzan continued his labor, sweat pouring down his brow. His loincloth remained firmly in place, a symbol of his submission, even in the face of physical exertion. The overseer couldn't help but admire the way Tarzan's body moved, reflecting the strength and resilience of the jungle king turned laborer. As the overseer guided Tarzan through the fields, they worked together in silent harmony, the jungle's once-mighty king now a humble servant under the relentless sun. * * * * * As Tarzan worked, the overseer's whip cracked occasionally, a sharp sound punctuating the steady rhythm of their labor. With each strike, the leather of the whip cut through the air, coming into contact with Tarzan's loincloth. The fabric held firm, designed to withstand such guidance. It absorbed the impact, offering a subtle resistance. When the whip struck from the left, Tarzan turned in that direction, his muscles responding to the cue. The loincloth, though tugged and tested, held fast against the force. Similarly, when the overseer directed him to the right, Tarzan's body shifted accordingly. The loincloth, a testament to its craftsmanship, stood up to the demands. In moments of full steam ahead, the overseer's whip cracked down the center, prompting Tarzan to push forward with unwavering determination as the crack of his ass tasted the whip. The loincloth, firmly secured, shifted and swayed with his movements, but never yielded. It remained a symbol of Tarzan's submission, even as he demonstrated his incredible strength. Throughout the day, this silent communication between overseer and worker continued. The whip's guidance, combined with Tarzan's innate understanding of the commands, made their partnership efficient and effective. The loincloth, a simple garment with a significant purpose, endured the trials, demonstrating its quality and craftsmanship. As the sun began its descent, casting long shadows across the fields, Tarzan's labor persisted. The loincloth, though tested and tugged, held its place. It bore the marks of their toil, a symbol of Tarzan's submission in the face of demanding work. The overseer watched, impressed by the resilience of both worker and garment, as they labored on in the fading light. The overseer, a master of his craft, knew the intricacies of directing Tarzan's movements. When the time came to halt, he wielded the whip with precision. With a deft flick of his wrist, the leather instrument snaked between Tarzan's powerful legs, finding purchase at the front of his loincloth. A swift jerk conveyed the command, the pressure on the fabric signaling Tarzan to cease his movements. In response, Tarzan stilled, his muscles tensing in obedience to the guidance. The loincloth, ever-resilient, bore the sudden tension. It held its place, securing its wearer in a moment of pause. The overseer's technique was both effective and demanding, showcasing his skill in managing Tarzan's labor. For a moment, the field was silent, save for the rustling leaves and the distant calls of birds. Tarzan, bound by the overseer's directive, waited with disciplined patience. The loincloth, a faithful companion in his submission, remained steadfast. It bore the weight of the moment, an unyielding reminder of Tarzan's role in this dynamic. With a nod from the overseer, Tarzan resumed his labor, guided once again by the whip's subtle cues. The loincloth, though tested, proved itself as a resilient conduit between master and worker. In the rhythm of their toil, it played its part, a silent witness to Tarzan's submission and the overseer's mastery. Tarzan, feeling each direction keenly, winced and grunted as he was directed left and right. He gasped at the forward command, focusing on the crack in the center of the loincloth. When he received the signal to stop, he couldn't suppress a howl at the grip of the whip on the front of his loincloth, a forceful reminder of his vulnerability in that moment. * * * * * As the overseer's commands crack through the air, Tarzan's mind whirls with a mixture of determination and resentment. He feels the sting of the whip's direction, a sharp reminder that he is no longer the untamed king of the jungle, but a captive laboring under the will of others. Each snap of the whip guides him, forcing him to turn, to halt, to change direction. It's a physical manifestation of his submission, a constant reminder that his strength and will are now harnessed for the benefit of his masters. In his heart, there's a spark of defiance, a flicker of the wild spirit that once roamed free. But it's quickly smothered by the harsh reality of his situation. Tarzan's eyes narrow in concentration, focusing on the rows of crops ahead. He knows that any deviation from the overseer's commands will result in more lashes, more pain. His muscles strain under the yoke, responding to the whip's direction with a begrudging obedience. It's a dance of dominance and submission, a cruel ballet that Tarzan is forced to perform. Yet, amidst the physical exertion and the stinging reminders of his new status, Tarzan's mind churns with thoughts of escape. He remembers the thrill of swinging through the trees, the taste of freedom on the wind. But those memories are tinged with a bitter edge, a painful reminder of what he's lost. The jungle is no longer his sanctuary; it's become a distant dream, a fading echo of a life that once was. As Tarzan labors, he can't help but steal glances at the distant figures in the shade, sipping drinks and dining on delicacies. Lord Harrington, Mr. Blackwood, and Alden, the architects of his captivity, watch with detached amusement. It's a stark contrast to the sweat and toil that defines Tarzan's existence now. He wonders if they ever consider the cost of their amusement, if they ever pause to think of the price he pays for their entertainment. With each crack of the whip, Tarzan's thoughts become a jumble of conflicting emotions. There's anger, directed at his captors and the injustice of his situation. There's a burning desire for freedom, a yearning to reclaim the life he once knew. But there's also a growing understanding that submission may be his only means of survival. It's a bitter pill to swallow, a concession to the reality that now defines him. Tarzan's breath comes in ragged gasps, sweat trickling down his back. He pushes himself forward, muscles straining against the weight of the plow. He knows that he must endure, that any sign of weakness will be met with further punishment. It's a brutal existence, one that grinds away at his spirit, leaving behind a hollowed-out shell of the man he once was. As the day stretches on, Tarzan's thoughts become a blur of pain and exhaustion. He moves on autopilot, driven by the relentless crack of the whip and the distant promise of rest. He knows that he must find a way to survive this new reality, to adapt to the chains that bind him. And so, Tarzan labors on, fueled by the indomitable spirit that still flickers within him. He endures the whip's direction, each crack a cruel reminder of his captivity. In the depths of his soul, he clings to the hope that one day, he will reclaim his freedom, that the wild heart of the jungle king will beat once more. Until then, he toils in silence, a captive in body but never in spirit. * * * * * Alden and Blackwood brainstorm enthusiastically, their minds filled with vivid images of the cruel ballet featuring Tarzan and the overseers. They discuss everything from choreography to costumes, creating a theatrical spectacle that would both captivate and shock the audience. They imagine the reactions of the alpha males in attendance, each one eager to witness the raw display of power and submission. As the ideas flow, they become increasingly excited about the potential success of this new endeavor. Their conversation continues for hours, fueled by the shared vision of this groundbreaking performance. The cruel ballet becomes a centerpiece of their plans for the Alpha Ascension, promising to be an unforgettable experience for all who witness it. Alden and Blackwood sat in Mr. Blackwood's opulent study, surrounded by shelves of leather-bound books and the scent of fine cigars. The room was dimly lit, giving an air of mystery and intrigue. Alden leaned forward in his chair, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "Imagine it, Blackwood. Tarzan, bound and exposed, at the center of the stage. The overseers, each with their own unique style, cracking their whips in perfect harmony, directing him like a puppet on strings." Blackwood's eyes gleamed with a mixture of anticipation and mischief. "Yes, and the choreography, Alden! The overseers' movements, sharp and precise, synchronized with the rhythm of the drums. It will be a symphony of dominance and submission." They both shared a knowing look, their creative minds working in tandem. The cruel ballet was taking shape before them, a vision of power and control that would leave their audience breathless. "We'll need the finest costumes," Alden mused, "each overseer adorned in regal attire, a symbol of their authority. And for Tarzan... something that accentuates his vulnerability, yet emphasizes his strength. A loincloth, perhaps, woven with symbolism." Blackwood nodded in agreement. "The music, Alden. We mustn't overlook it. A composition that builds tension, that mirrors the ebb and flow of dominance and submission. It should resonate in the hearts of our audience, leaving them on the edge of their seats." As they spoke, their ideas grew more vivid, painting a picture of a performance that would transcend mere entertainment. It would be an experience, a revelation of power dynamics, a reflection of the deepest desires and fears that lurked within every man. "The lighting, Blackwood, the lighting!" Alden exclaimed, his eyes gleaming. "Imagine the interplay of shadows and illumination, casting Tarzan in stark relief. It will heighten every nuance, every emotion, making it an immersive experience for our audience." Blackwood leaned back in his chair, a satisfied smile playing on his lips. "This will be a night to remember, Alden. The cruel ballet will leave an indelible mark on the minds of our guests, a testament to the potency of dominance and submission." They continued to brainstorm, each idea building upon the last, until they had created a detailed vision of the cruel ballet. It was a masterpiece of theatricality, a fusion of art and power that promised to be the highlight of the Alpha Ascension. As they concluded their discussion, Alden and Blackwood shared a sense of accomplishment. The cruel ballet was set to be a triumph, a testament to their creative genius and their understanding of the desires that drove their audience. They left the study, invigorated and eager to bring their vision to life. The cruel ballet would be a performance that would be talked about for years to come, a symbol of their dominance and the heights to which they could ascend. * * * * * END OF CHAPTER THIRTY-FOUR------------------------------------- Thanks for the emails! I always appreciate hearing your reactions, including your constructive criticism. If you have any feedback or input, please contact me at tarzanstud1@gmail.com .