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"Service Clause," the clerk continued, "Candidates shall serve as protectors and household guards. Duties include: escort, defense, training participation, and tasks assigned by Contract Holder within reasonable scope."
"Training Clause," the clerk read, "Contract Holder shall provide training opportunity and resources. Candidates shall accept structured cultivation regimen. Refusal without cause constitutes breach."
Vera's eyes sharpened at the word structured.
She liked structure.
It meant their lives would not be left to mood.
"Protection Clause," the clerk continued, "Contract Holder assumes responsibility for Candidates' safety under household domain, excluding Candidates' deliberate betrayal, criminal breach of Contract Market rules, or willful acts that invite judgment."
Then the clerk paused.
He looked at the twins.
"And now," he said dryly, "the special clause requested by Candidates."
The room felt like it leaned in.
