{[Don't drown in your sorrows. Face them head on, don't stop even if your body bleeds, your bones snap, and your mind breaks. Then and only then can you admit defeat.]}

“Why are you here?” A drop of sweat ran down Ashner’s face.

Melissa's hair was a mess, her face had some dirt, and her eyes were lost. Like they had forgotten some of their colors.

She stepped forward, getting closer to Ashner.

“I know you didn’t do it… It was Ensley and his sergeants…”

“You knew?" Ashner stepped back, petrified with her. "You knew, and you threw me to the wolves?"

Risa’s eyes sharpened, she wanted to attack, but Gio held her back.

Stop shaking, don’t let her see how scared you are.

A slap echoed across the factory, Melissa’s cheek burned red.

“You bitch." Lina's hand pulsed, and her eyes were wide and enraged. "Get away from him… I won't ask twice."

Melissa fell to her knees, weeping.

“At first they offered me money, when I refused, they threatened me... I even went up the chain of command, but they all looked the other way… Trying to cover up what happened me… Ensley found out, so he killed my dad… I was so scared… So I lied to protect myself.”

Is she lying? She has to be.

Ashner observed her reactions in great detail. Melissa’s legs shook, her frown and partly opened mouth held her breath. But what gave away her true emotions were her eyes. They lacked life.

Those eyes… They’re the same as mine… She isn’t lying.

“If what you’re saying is true, then why wait two years?” Risa demanded answers. Gio grabbed her arm to calm her rage. "Scratch that. Why tell him at all?”

“Last year, my mom passed away. I always knew where you lived since I requested that information from the military. They made an exception… In reality, I just wanted to know where you were… I needed to know if you were okay…"

Ashner raised his eyebrow.

Why does she care?

Melissa fiddled with her fingers and leaned on her arms. Alex and Lina stayed silent, watching the whole thing unfold.

“That night…” She dug her nails into the stone floor, damaging them. “They drugged me, and most of it was a blur, but I remember one thing clearly… You.”

She glanced away and shook. That night was not something she enjoyed revisiting. "I saw you fighting. You tried to save me."

“I failed to save you.” Ashner corrected her.

She shook her head. “You risked your life for mine… And in return… I ruined yours… I deserve what happened to me.”

Ashner’s eyes sharpened. “DON’T EVER SAY THAT!”

His scream made everyone jerk back. It took Melissa a second to regain her composure.

She grabbed Ashner’s shirt desperately.

"I lost everyone, I barely eat, and I don't sleep. Every time I close my eyes, I’m back in the barracks… I'm reminded how weak I am… My fears overwhelm me… I hate those men, but I hate myself more." Melissa's eyes started crying. Her face rubbed against Ashner's jacket. "I've been stalking you for months, and I don’t know why I came here today… I shouldn’t burden you with my life… But please… You’re the only one I can turn to. Please… Even if you hate me… I’m sorry… I’m so sorry…”

Risa bared her fangs at her in disgust. She wasn't the kind of woman to show mercy to anyone that harmed her friends.

What am I supposed to do now? She's crying, and she's scared… Doesn't she understand I'm a loser… Ensley did this… That fucker is still out there… As long as he's alive she'll never be safe… And neither will I.

“Melissa." Wong and Gio were both as shocked at the rest, but they weren't going to turn her away. Not after she opened up like that. Wong knelt down next to her. "Something doesn't sit well with me… Everything moved so fast, and Ensley wasn't even an officer. The fact he got MP's there that quickly and made a public display isn't feasible… What else do you know?”

More? Wong never mentioned anything about this.

Melissa glanced at Gio and the girls, lastly, Alex.

"The entire chain of command is corrupt… They either turned a blind eye or flat out ignored my pleas… I don't know who Ensley is connected to, but they did a thorough job of keeping his reputation intact… Not just that… I'm not the only girl they targeted…"

Lina grabbed Ashner's arm. Once she did, he forced himself to stop shaking.

"I've been watching you for months… You're obsessed with what happened with me… Trying to find a way to make amends over something you didn't do… Even after entering that weird room… And returning with strangers… I'm sure you're still going the extra mile… Trying to find some peace… But you don’t need to…"

Melissa's clothes were filthy. Now that they were near her, she emitted a terrible stench. Like she hadn't taken a shower in weeks. Now that she was crying, her tears were cleaning her cheeks.

A branch snapped in the distance, outside of the factory, more than likely from an animal. Melissa jumped back and hid behind some of the factory equipment.

“What are you doing?”

“It’s Ensley… He swore he would kill me if I ever told you the truth… He’s had guys watching me for years.” She shook like a puppy left in the rain. “When I lost my mom… I ran… I lost them…”

“You’re afraid of him.”

“He murdered my dad… Of course, I'm afraid…"

Ashner debated his options in his head for a few minutes. Even if he pushed her away, the other two wouldn't.

“He’s going to find me… Once he does… I’m dead…”

She’s more broken than I am. Menu, show me her mental status.

The menu popped up and stated the obvious.

Target is Traumatized – XP Required to Cure – 100XP

Melissa held her head with tears running down her face, onto her torn jeans.

“Where’s Ensley? And his sergeants?”

She struggled to get her words out. “Washington… He owns a private military company named White Water… All the men who were with him that night.” Her hands shook violently. “They work there.”

"Of course, he owns a small army." Ashner rubbed his head. Pissing them off was a bad idea.

"White water." Wong put it together. "Those soldiers do the jobs our special forces won't."

“They do?” Ashner raised his eyebrow.

"Yes, if they're threatening to keep her quiet, and the military is backing those mercs, then our government is willing to let her die for the sake of their own self-interests… That's why you both got fucked over."

I went to jail because the government wanted to keep their dirty soldiers on a payroll? That’s BULLSHIT! I can’t make this decision right now.

"No, no, no, no, no." She shook her head, flakes of grime and dandruff littered the floor below her. "I don't want to die, and they won't find me. They can't find me… I'm invisible."

“Ashner.” Gio tapped his shoulder. “Can you help her?”

“I can… But think this through… If we get involved, we might become their next targets… I won’t make this call unless we all agree on it.”

Gio tapped his shoulder, and Wong nodded. Next, Ashner looked at his slaves. "You three as well… We can help her, or we can leave her."

“Help her.” Alex didn’t hesitate. But the two girls took a second to think it over. They were both close to having their bodies robbed from them… So even if they didn’t like her, they both nodded.

Ashner walked up towards her. She leaped forward, gripping his shoulders. The wounds on his back burned. "Don't let them kill me! DON'T LET THEM! PLEASE!" Her arms wrapped around his chest, like a little girl who had gone days without seeing her father.

Menu, cure her trauma.

XP:5200

"Please don't let them kill me… Please…" Light returned to her eyes, her breathing slowed down, and her heart’s beat returned to normal. In a few seconds, all the fear faded away. Her eyes came up to Ashner. A part of her that she lost repaired itself while she clung to him. "You're so warm…"

Conditions Met: New Title Acquired.

Redeemer.

A title?

{[The greatest weapon and tool in our possession are our hands. With them, we create, we destroy, we cherish, and we kill. With our hands, we become the masters of our own worlds.]}

Matter Manipulation Obtained.

That’s new.

XP Conditions have Expanded.

SP Required to improve Gift from the God’s.

LP requ#red for 2E%%sef

This system is still acting up. Menu, show me XP, SP, and LP.

XP:5200

SP:100

LP:1

Menu, how do I obtain SP and LP?

SP Obtained by Redeeming Souls.

LP Obtained by %&#*$* ERROR.

Menu, show me what I can obtain with LP.

ERROR 78&^^% ERR0R 0101110

Odd. What can I use SP points for?

The menu spun, its normal blue color changed to a green one. A leveling system formed in front of Ashner. It wasn't as open-ended as the XP system. Instead, it was more like a step-by-step leveling system you see in a video game. Three options lay in front of Ashner.

Offense

Defense

Specialization

Ashner focused on the last option.

Manipulate Sand 10:SP – Manipulate Wood 10:SP – Destroy Matter 10:SP – Reshape Matter 10:SP – Restore Matter 10:SP – Mix Matter 10:SP – Combine Metal 10:SP – Redistribute Matter 10:SP -**************************

"Why are you so warm?" Melissa sensed her mind return from its fractured state, like something higher showed mercy and cured her madness… The only thing that changed in her life was Ashner. His warmth had triggered that. She leaned in closer and hugged him tighter, catching him off guard.

“What is that room?" Melissa asked, and everyone glanced around conflicted. That was their secret, after all.

“You wouldn’t believe me if I told you.” Ashner let her cling on to him. "But first, we need to get you somewhere, Ensley, and White Water can never find you… Ironically, I think the last place they would look is with me."

“I’m not an idiot.” Melissa urged, her hands dug into Ashner’s back, making the wounds from the whip sting. “I saw that door… Or am I going crazy? Cause I don’t know anymore.”

Ashner sighed.

This might be a bad idea, but I don’t think keeping a secret like this will help her state of mind.

“It’s a doorway to another world…”

Wong’s eyes widened as soon as Ashner admitted the truth, but he kept his mouth shut.

“Those three are from that world… I know it’s pointless trying to explain it so. Menu, spend the XP needed for her to see their true selves.”

The menu spun.

XP:5100

Wong grabbed Ashner's shoulder. "Are you an idiot? You can't just reveal this truth to anyone, especially her, and she's clearly not in her right state of mind."

“She is now.” Ashner corrected, “I used my power to cure her mental damage… And I know I shouldn’t reveal the truth to anyone… But her and I… We’re the same…”

Wong backed off, not entirely satisfied with Ashner's decision, but those two did have one thing in common. The world had fucked them both.

Melissa studied Alex, Risa, and Lina. She was shocked with their ears and tails.

"We still have another issue," Wong stated the obvious. "We're also homeless."

Ashner sighed. He needed to turn in the bars of gold to the CEO vultures.

“It's time we find our own place to live." Ashner glanced at Gio, who smirked. He had already scouted out a few places, mansions for the group. "Can you please take Melissa upstairs? I'll fill you in later."

Gio nodded and guided her upstairs. As he did, he offered her a water bottle and some snacks. Ashner waited until their footsteps faded in the distance.

*******

The group left Wong, Ashner, and Risa alone. They were next to the rusted machinery.

"So you gained a new power, one that allows you to manipulate matter." Wong tapped his notebook. "The obvious question is, can you warp it, cause if that's possible, you can just make gold."

Risa glanced at Gio, confused. "I thought gold was the most valuable item in your world."

Wong shook his head. "Gold is precious… But it doesn't compare to other metals like Plutonium, Painite, Taaffeite, Californium… Or God forbid… Anti-matter… Ashner, you’re essentially able to create anything with that power… What’s the catch?”

"It uses SP instead of XP. And requires Redeemer points to raise up. I doubt it'll be something I can easily increase, at least not as easily as killing monsters on the other world… I have fifty points as of now."

“So you’re saying it’s essentially useless unless you find out how to continuously create a form of SP… Which I agree with, that's very unlikely… But that doesn't mean you shouldn't spend those points."

Wong pointed at the building.

"Does Restore Matter mean it can restore rotten items? If that's the case, then we can reuse this building without spending a fortune buying equipment, and we can also smelt the materials here and now."

“Only one way to find out, Menu, buy everything required. Up to Restore Matter.”

SP:50

Ashner walked up towards one of the machinery. He clasped it and focused on his power…

Nothing.

"That's odd, Menu. Why can't I use this power?"

The menu popped up.

Lack of Mana.

Mana Pool Purchase – XP Required to Buy – 1000XP

“I don’t have access to a mana pool, but I can buy one for 1000XP.”

Wong’s eyes lit up. “Wait, can you give me a mana pool as well?”

He looks like a little kid asking for a new toy.

“Menu, can I give Wong a mana pool?”

Give Mana Pool to Target – XP Required to Buy – 1500XP

“I can give it to you, but for both of us, it’ll cost me 2500XP. That’s almost half of my XP.”

"That's cool… Buy it. I want it… Give me." Wong's eyes were delighted with the idea of using magic.

“I’m starting to believe those rumors of you writing Harry Potter fan-fiction are actually true.”

"It wasn't fan-fiction… More like… Erotica...”

"Seriously?" Ashner giggled. That was so out of character for Wong. "I didn’t take you for a perv.”

“I'm not a perv, like women. I'm classy, and I don't watch porn… I read it..."

“Who were the main characters?”

“Hermione and Luna… Now let’s stay on topic.”

“Fine. Menu, buy.”

XP:2600

Ashner’s menu popped up, with a mana bar.

“It worked.”

Wong analyzed his hands and feet, he had mana, but he didn’t have a menu like Ashner did.

Ashner pressed his palm on the machinery again, this time focusing on his power. The rust on the machine faded away, and it repaired itself where he pressed, then Ashner collapsed to his side.

Risa caught him.

His vision was blurred, and he found himself struggling to stand up, almost like he was on the verge of passing out.

"What happened?" He asked as Wong rushed towards him, checking his pulse and studying his eyes.

"Your pulse is fine, your eyes are struggling, but they're focusing." Wong patted his face. "Speak to me. How are you feeling?"

“Dizzy, like I just ran a marathon.”

"Master." Risa held him tight. "A mana pool is something you have to work on. Children have the energy and stamina for it, so it comes naturally to them as they grow… But if you just obtained one, you're going to struggle from the backlash of burning through your mana pool. Until you learn how to control it."

Mana – Level 2

“Oh, Menu, how much to level up my mana pool?”

RESTRICTED.

“Well, fuck.”

After a few minutes, Ashner stood up. He was no longer lightheaded. "Wong, mana levels up the more you use it. So my guess is that you'll go through what I just went through, at least until we can improve it. Sadly, this isn't something I can level up with my XP."

"I still haven't figured out how to use my power." Wong stuck his hand out, but nothing happened. Next, he palmed the same place Ashner did, and again, nothing happened. "I sense something different inside me. But I can't seem to do anything about it."

"That's because you don't know your affinity." Risa butted in. "Ashner's is earth, but his power is odd compared to the people in my world… And I don't know what yours is."

“Who would know?”

“The queen of the elves might have a way to determine that.”

Wong sighed. “I’ll ask her next time we visit your world.”

Ashner pawed the machinery again. "Let me finish this. If we can smelt the gold we won't have to rely on jury-rigged ideas." He inhaled and used his power, this time palming a little more rust off. Risa caught him before he collapsed.

Mana – Level 3

*******

A few hours later, Ashner finished restoring the machine. His mana level increased to 10. At that point, he was able to sense his mana restore and deplete. But it wasn't leveling up anymore. Not that he could see how to do it, that just happened on its own. He even went as far as manipulating the metal and creating a logo.

The rest of the group, including Melissa, ventured down to the smelting machines. Even after the machine had been entirely restored, he had to keep using his power on it. Wong guessed it was to restore all the wiring. But after a few hours, Ashner was covered in sweat, and the gold coins were melting inside the enormous graphite bowl.

The crucible tilted and poured the molten gold on top of hundreds of casts. As they did, the slaves curiously observed. And when it was ready and cooled, Ashner grabbed his first real gold bar.

He just about skipped towards the group. The bar was well made and professional. And in the corner was a mark.

A key with a door behind it.

“Is this our logo?” Gio asked.

"Yes." Ashner held the gold bar up. "This is the fruit of our labor. With this, our lives are going to change for the better… Finally…"

*******

Ashner delivered the gold to one of the companies. The same redhead Alex had his amazing night with greeted them. She even inspected the gold. Having it tested multiple times.

"You weren't kidding, and this is good quality." She smirked at Ashner then at Alex, who hid behind Gio. After the night they had, he hadn't fully recovered himself. "Very well, you should expect your first payment after we weigh the gold."

She glanced at Alex. He was wearing a new butler outfit. "I expect him to be here next weekend…" She shuttered with anticipation. Wealth and power gave her anything she desired. But the lust that Alex provided was worth more to her than money.

*******

“This is all ours?” Alex stared out the windows into the distant forest. They were nowhere near the sea, but the mountainside was their backyard. And it worked out since they were only about an hour away from their factory.

“Yes, the first three we looked at were just as spectacular, but they're not as isolated as this one. With the money we got selling the gold, we were able to pay a good portion of this place off." Ashner studied the inside of the unfurnished mansion. It had a massive living room with two staircases that circled upward.

Each into different rooms.

Outside in the yard, Lina enjoyed the cold and studied the massive pool. They were still in the middle of winter, so the main pool didn't have any water. The Jacuzzi, on the other hand, did.

Gio was sweeping up the large garage. It was set up for at least ten cars.

Wong studied the kitchen. It had enough space for multiple people to cook a feast.

Risa found her way in the mansions attic, and it was modified specifically for stargazing. Under the bright sun, she found herself excited for the sun to set.

Below their feet was a basement that extended down two floors. Larger than the entire mansion. With a secret underground passage, it also served as a spare car garage. From what Gio gathered, this mansion used to belong to some big shot drug dealer. In fact, all the windows were bulletproof, and the walls were reinforced with steel.

The property had a guest house. It wasn't as large as the main house, but it had its own pool, and it was also two stories high.

The bottom floor was built to be a wine cellar with multiple honeycomb designs. And it had its own gun safe, along with a walk-in safe, more than likely used to hide drugs.

The floor above that one was storage, more than likely for food or materials. Either way, Ashner loved it. And so did the rest of the group.

Lina walked into the mansion, more than satisfied with its luxury. She studied Ashner and Melissa, who were both in the main living room.

"Care to join me in the Jacuzzi?" She took her top off, revealing her chest. Ashner's eyes widened, and he glanced away. Melissa stepped in front of Lina and covered her chest up with her hands.

“What are you doing?” Melissa’s face grew red with embarrassment. “You can’t just undress in front of a guy.”

“You humans are so sensitive with showing your skin.” She stretched back. Her bust was large and busty. Something women would pay thousands of dollars to recreate. "If Ashner wants to peek, then he can do just that."

“Where’s your swimsuit?”

“What’s a swimsuit?” She tilted her head.

“It’s what you wear when you go swimming… If you don’t know what that is… Do you have any underwear?”

“What’s underwear?”

“Ashner!” Melissa forced Lina to put her shirt back on, which only earned her a giggle from the elf. “You took these girls shopping, so why didn’t you get them underwear? It’s an essential item to have.”

"Well…" Ashner glanced into Melissa's blue eyes. She was a mix of angry and confused. "We did get them clothes… But we wouldn't know where to start when it comes to buying them underwear."

“You are such a GUY!” Melissa grabbed Lina’s arm. “We need to get you underwear right away, both for you and Risa. You’ve been around too many boys lately… It’s time you get a woman’s touch, not to mention, your body is built for fashion.”

“My,” Lina smiled, “you’re a lively one.”

“This is serious, and I’m assuming Ashner will pay for it.” She glared back at the soldier.

“Yes,” Ashner handed her a black credit card. “Take those girls shopping, and make sure to buy yourself clothes as well. You’re wearing Alex’s right now, don’t be stingy either. We have more than enough.”

“Thank you.” Melissa smiled at him then dashed deeper into the mansion to find Risa.

She's expressing her emotions more than I would imagine… I guess removing her trauma is bringing back her old personality… It's a shame I never talked to her before Ensley made his move… But things are different now…

"Dude!" Gio rushed down the stairs with Alex behind him. "This place is awesome, oh, and I call dibs on the room that oversees the mountains."

“Master, I can choose any of these rooms? They’re all massive, with their own bathrooms.”

"Yes, choose whichever one you like, but grab the group. We're going to furnish this place up."

Alex and Gio rushed back in to find Wong.

"It's interesting how much things changed in a few days…" He imagined his old rotten apartment room. This was such a step up. The last time he lived in a house like this was when he was a child. He was so naive to the world then… But not anymore.

*******

“This is amazing." Risa stretched her back and studied herself in the mirror, inside a large dressing room. She wore a black and white bra with little red bows and matching panties. "Your world makes cute clothes."

"Not just cute." Lina jumped up and down. She wore a green bra, and her chest was much larger than the other two girls. Even if she was about a foot taller than the two, she ran her hands down her green hair and smiled. "These are comfortable."

“What does your world use for underwear?" Melissa asked. She was the only girl still wearing a shirt and pants. She even wore a face mask. Subconsciously she wore it to prevent anyone from recognizing her, and White Water mercenaries can be anywhere. And clothes she had borrowed from Alex.

“We don't." Lina twirled in a circle, stopping just enough for her chest to wiggle.

Both Melissa and Risa's eyes widened. They both glanced at their own bodies then a spark of depression hit them both.

“Ashner won’t mind if we buy as many as we want?” Melissa asked.

“No, if something bothers him, he's the kind of man that'll let us know," Risa reassured her, this time reaching for a red and pink pair. "Why don't you buy yourself some, Melissa?"

Melissa glanced away and tugged on her shirt. "I'll do it… when I'm alone…"

Lina and Risa studied the human as she lowered her head to the ground.

“That won't do." Lina sighed and walked up towards Melissa, tilting her head and giving her a devious smile. "I'd love to see how a human woman looks wearing underwear."

“What an odd thing to want." Melissa backed up until Risa gripped her arms. Melissa struggled, but her strength didn't compare to the demi-cat. She glanced at Lina, who smirked.

"Off with your clothes." Lina's eyes became devious, and her hands gripped Melissa's shirt, lifting it up and off her. At the same time, Risa undid her pants. In a few seconds, they stripped the poor girl.

Melissa yelped.

“Was that so hard?” Lina teased, but Melissa covered her upper chest and legs. Her body was covered in scars, deep bite marks. Melissa came down to her knees, to the fetal position and her eyes started watering up.

“Oh…” Lina knelt down. “Are you ashamed of your scars?”

“They remind me of what happened…”

Risa knelt down with the other two and studied the bite marks, wounds given by evil men.

“They tainted my body… These scars are the proof.”

“Ashner prevented me from getting scars, he told me something along the lines of 'someone shouldn't carry the scars of their mistakes on their body' yet he took a lashing for me, scarring himself, he's odd… But he's kind."

“These scars were not made by any mistake I made…" Melissa tried her best, but she started crying. "I'm tainted."

Risa found a healed bite mark on Melissa's shoulder, so she bit down hard on it, enough to draw blood.

“Ow!" Melissa jerked her head back and surmised Risa had bit over her old scar.

“If I bite it… Does that mean it’s still tainted?” She asked with a sorrow-filled gaze.

Melissa took a few seconds to reply. “If it’s a scar from a friend, then it’s not tainted, just don’t bite me too hard. I’m sensitive.”

“I’m your friend?” Risa never imagined a human would call her that.

Melissa's life flashed before her eyes, and she didn't recall the last time she spoke to a friend, much less spent time with anyone she trusted. Since Ensley came into her life, she had spent her time so terrified she was going insane, at least until Ashner took it all away, somehow, with a hug. She debated how he did that. “Of course, you both are.”

Lina's ears shot up, and she fought back her emotions but let out a smile.

Risa came down and bit another scar, and another, and another. Purifying her wounds, even if it was just a kind jester, Melissa adored her for doing it.

Lina grabbed Melissa and Risa, hugging them both like an older sister with her siblings. “What do friends in your world do?” She asked.

"Friends shop together, and we watch movies together, we eat delicious food, go on hikes, go camping… We trust each other…" As she spoke, her tears ran down her scarred body, leaving her eyes with a deep red. The two demi's rationalized her past. Even if they were from different worlds, loneliness always carries the same scars. "We hang out, and we… We… We…"

“You don’t need to say anything else… Melissa…” Lina hugged her tightly. “You’re not alone anymore… We’re here…”

Melissa let Lina hug her. Her body was soft, unlike Risa's. Both girls snuggled her, women who chose to understand her and chose to care for her… Girls who accepted Melissa as a friend.

“… Thank you…”

*******

Ashner took it upon himself to buy furniture, choosing things for the living room, pool, and even the winery. He had taken three trips back and forth to their van, stocking it up with alcohol.

“Master?” Alex glanced up at him. “Why do you drink so much?”

“Does it bother you?”

“I don't know, but most nights, you lock yourself up in your room and leave it smelling like booze. Are you going to continue that habit with this new home?"

“I don't see why not?" Alex ended the conversation. He didn't want to step out of line.

“I have noticed. Lately, you've been drinking less and less."

Ashner held a whiskey bottle.

Before I found the key, I got wasted every night. He's right. A part of me hoped that would be how I would go out… But lately, I haven't been drinking as much… Maybe I should try to kick the habit.

Wong had gone to a supermarket. He was stocking up on food and medicine. He left in his own car, leaving the rest of the group alone in the mall.

Gio was exactly where Ashner expected him to be. In an anime store.

“Seriously, dude?" Ashner moped as Gio carried six large bags filled with anime DVDs, some collectibles, and half a dozen wall scrolls.

“I’m focusing on the necessities.”

“Anime merchandise is a necessity?”

“Duh, I also got myself a punching bag and about ten grand worth of gym equipment."

“You’re going to keep training with your MMA?” Ashner asked, studying his massive arms.

“Of course, I took a two-year break with that coma."

“What’s MMA?” Alex asked the group, even if Ashner had spent XP on him, the demi’s regularly struggled with habits and common knowledge.

“It’s a special way to fight.” Gio flexed his arms. “I’ll teach you some moves when we get the house settled.”

“I’d love that!” Alex jumped up and down. He carried dozens of outfits in his arms. As much as Ashner protested against it, Alex fell in love with the butler outfit. Oddly he hated the regular suit and tie, but he was more than okay with a butler uniform.

“Ashner!" Melissa yelled from the food court. Lina and Risa were clinging on to her. Each one with smiles. They all wore new jackets, and Lina even wore a beanie.

Those three seem to have clicked.

“We’re ready to go home.” She smiled.

Ashner found his heart skipped a beat, she was cute, but she didn't hold a candle to Risa or Lina. Even so, Ashner didn't deny he sensed an attraction towards her. Her smile had sparked it…

Calm down. She's the girl I couldn't save. These emotions might be mixed up… Plus, I doubt I'm a guy she would be interested in.

"Let's go home." She clung to his arm, smiling like a little girl greeting her father home.

“Alright.”

*******

It took a few days, but the group furnished their home. Each group member had a room in the mansion, except for Melissa, who opted to stay in the guest house. Ashner didn't pry for information, but he guessed that she struggled to sleep around guys. Not that he blamed her.

Gio’s room was covered with anime posters and wall scrolls, complete manga sets, plus a handful of workout equipment, even if they had a designated room to work out in.

Wong's was filled with herbs he kept near a cracked window. Unlike Gio's room, his book collection was a mix of medical, herbicidal, cooking, and the like. He had even convinced Ashner to use a spare room for the sole purpose of studying the things he brought back with him from the demi's world. He even bought expensive medical equipment. Wong wasted almost half of their finances just on his machines.

Risa became obsessed with kittens, her world had a variation, but according to her, they were nowhere near as cute as the ones from Ashner's world. Needless to say, she had the girliest room.

Lina was more interested in the plants and trees from this world. She would speak to them in her elven language but was surprised when they didn't reply back. Ashner didn't have anything to tell her. She adored the color green and just about fought Alex for the room with the largest bathtub.

Alex filled his room with expensive butler outfits, dozens of polished shoes, and the gifts the vulture CEOs had given him. From Jaeger-LeCoultre watches to BENU pens to designer outfits and even a McLaren sports car, granted he never learned how to drive, so Ashner had to pick him up. Gio adored the car more than anyone else. The two often drove around in it.

Ashner had the barest of all the rooms. He kept his weapons in it and cleaned them regularly. On occasion, he spent nights at the factory, using his power to restore the old building. But Melissa insisted he stay with the group more. So on occasion, he did.

And a few weeks passed.

*******

“What an odd custom, your world lies to all their children for this holiday?” Lina held a Christmas present, something Ashner had personally gotten her. “Then you scare them into believing a man will enter their home and leave presents for them? That’s just… Frightening.”

“You’re killing the mood, Lina” Melissa clung to her shoulder. “The point of Christmas is sharing presents among your friends and family.”

“I do enjoy that your world enjoys certain days a year, every year. My world doesn’t do that.” She also glanced at her outfit. “And why do the women in your world need to wear these red and white outfits?”

“You don't need to." Wong sipped on eggnog. He was a little buzz. He normally avoided drinking. Holidays were his only exception. "Gio just tricked you girls into wearing those outfits."

Gio gave a proud smirk.

The three girls wore different variations of a Santa outfit. Lina wore one that hugged her curves, and Risa wore one that showed off her slim tummy. Melissa had a basic one that helped bring out her cute charm.

“Devious man." Lina glared at Gio, who had no shame. "And you."

Her sharp eyes went to Melissa. “You’re the one who helped us pick these outfits out… Were you involved?”

“Not just involved," Melissa admitted. "I'm the mastermind… Because you’re both so sexy! It's like having my own personal models to dress up!"

Lina pouted.

“Don't be like that, and I'm wearing one too." She teased. Lina sighed and returned to eating grapes.

“I'm not comfortable." Risa was doing her best to hide her stomach, which was so slim if she kept working on it, her abs were going to start to show. Her face was as red as the Santa hat she wore.

“You can take it off if you want." Melissa nudged her shoulder. She was done teasing them.

“Well…” Risa walked towards Ashner, who was double-checking their finances. They were essentially committing fraud with their company with the help of magic, but even with that, paperwork can be traced, so he was making sure it wasn't something the government would find suspicious.

“Look there." Melissa poked Lina's side. The elf glanced at Risa, who was struggling to talk to Ashner. "She might have a little crush."

Lina tilted her head. A part of her was curious what Risa would do. But to the girls, her attraction to Ashner was very obvious. None of the guys caught on.

“It's a common story in my world, a slave falling in love with their master… But it's just a fantasy. Why would a master show kindness when he can just take what he wants… Risa might be a fan of those types of fairy-tales."

Melissa giggled.

“How do I look?" Risa stuttered with the first word she spoke. Ashner studied her. As he did, her tail and ears came down, her knees shook, and she kept her hand on her arm. She was patiently waiting for his answer.

“Melissa and Gio schemed this up. Those two together are trouble." Risa's head glanced down at the floor. It took Ashner another second to rationalize that she wanted something else.

“It looks good on you. Red is your color." Risa's ear came up. She smiled, bowed, and dashed back towards the girls. Leaving Ashner confused.

Was she just digging for a compliment? What an odd girl.

"I thought you were going to change," Lina commented as Risa returned to the group, this time proud of her outfit.

“I changed my mind." Her ears were up. Even her tail went straight up.

“You like the master," Lina said bluntly, making Risa's body shake with the shock of someone knowing.

The neku studied Lina’s eyes then Melissa’s excited gaze.

"… Maybe." She admitted, Melissa adored her reactions, so she hugged her friend.

“That presents a problem.” Lina sipped on her wine glass.

“Why?”

“That man closed his heart off to the idea of love ages ago.” Lina took a sip of her wine. “You can confess, but he’ll more than likely reject you.”

Lina's ears came down. "Do you really think so?" She asked Melissa for her reassurance. But even the happy blonde didn't have the words to comfort her.

“Then I'll wait." Risa's ears came down. "Even if he never likes me back, I'll always stay by his side… That alone makes me happy."

“Do whatever you want." Lina took another sip. Risa stepped away from the girls to talk to Alex, who Melissa had dressed up as a reindeer.

“You know, Lina.” Melissa sat down next to her as the elf sipped on her drink. “If you don’t act, Risa will snatch him away from you.”

Lina choked on her drink. While she did, Melissa smiled deviously. It took her a few seconds, but the elf regained her composure.

“It’s not like that.” She debated.

“There are times when you just watch him, and when he gives off a smile, your face flusters… You're very good at hiding it, even if it's obvious to me."

Lina inflated her cheeks, which only made Melissa smile more.

“Just confess.”

“It wouldn't work." Lina poured herself some more red wine. "If I allow myself to fall for him, then the reality of immortality will eat away at my consciousness as he starts to age and wither away, while I remain the same… Falling in love would be cruel."

She sipped on her drink silently.

“Coward.” Melissa snatched up her wine and helped herself, chugging straight from the bottle.

“I wish I had your lifespan.”

Melissa raised her eyebrow, then continued chugging.

“That way, we could grow old together, and I wouldn't be left behind…"

“I'd love to have your long lifespan." Melissa studied the bottle. It was empty, so she licked the top. "Everyone wants what they can't have… Regardless of what world we're in."

“Risa is a better choice for him." The wine was hitting her hard. Lina's body was warm. "Not that he would choose her or me… He's obsessed with a past he can't change… And I'm obsessed with a future I can't have… One away from a world that's being devoured…"

“Long life or not." Melissa stood up. She, too, was under the influence. "If you're not doing what you want, then you're better off dead."

Lina debated her words, then glanced at Ashner, who was walking out of his room with a few presents in his hands. Alex was helping him carry them down the steps.

It was a few minutes past midnight, so the group was getting ready to pass out gifts. The slaves were confused with the idea of Christmas, so Ashner mediated that they shouldn't bother buying anything since it was their first Christmas.

Gio, Wong, and Ashner brought a few presents down for the group. And the best part of Christmas began.

Wong got Lina some seeds from a rare plant. He got Risa some body armor, some that wrapped around her arms and legs. The girl refused to wear the heavy plates, so he had some custom made for her. And for Alex, he got him a small plate carrier and gear that the rest of them used.

Gio got Alex large dog paw mittens. For Risa, he got her a choker with a bell on it. And for Lina, he got her a set of beanies.

As for Ashner.

First, he went to Alex, who eagerly opened his presents. His ear came down.

“Those are attachments for your handgun, a red laser sight, a strobe light, and a holster, now open the second one."

Alex obeyed, opening up a larger box. This time, Alex's eyes lit up.

“That's a semi-automatic, gas-operated, 7.62 M39 sniper rifle. I chose that one for you because it's lightweight, and you've been showing promise with your sidearm."

“Master!” Alex jumped up and hugged Ashner, which made him uncomfortable. “I’ll treasure it!”

“You still have to learn how to use it.”

Alex started caressing the rail and hugged the weapon.

“Next up, Lina.” Ashner handed her a box which she elegantly and slowly opened. Her eyes widened when she got a glance at her gift.

“What is this?”

“It's called a compound bow. They're easier to handle and use than the longbows your people have." Lina grabbed it and grazed the pulley system. "I'm aware you're not much of a fighter, but this gift isn't just for you. I ordered about three hundred, and these will be gifts for your people. It'll greatly improve their combat abilities. But it's just temporary… In the future, I plan to teach them how to handle firearms."

“Your gift for me is the safety of my people… I don't know what to say." Lina put the weapon down and bowed gracefully. "Thank you… Master."

“And we have you, Risa." Ashner handed her a box which she struggled to open. As soon as she did, she didn't need any explanation. She drew the sword from its sheath. "That's called a katana."

Risa studied the blade as it curved.

“I noticed that the style of fighting you use relies heavily on avoiding sword clashing. Instead, you rush in and strike vital parts. That sword is built for your type of swordsmanship…"

The sheath was red and black, the neku bowed. "Thank you, and I promise I'll ensure all your dreams become a reality with this sword."

“You don’t have to be so formal. I trust you guys, so enjoy your gifts… And lastly… Melissa.”

Melissa tilted her head, this whole time, she had been smiling. "Me?"

“Of course, I wasn't entirely sure what to get you, so it's not as grand as the last gifts." He handed her a present that she quickly tore open. It was a bright red scarf with a material that was as soft as silk.

“I noticed you always wear a face-mask. I know why you hide your face, so I figured hiding it behind a scarf would look more natural… I know it sounds dumb.”

“No.” She shook her head and cuddled her gift. “It’s perfect.”

“I love Christmas!" Alex giggled as he sipped on wine. "Let's do this every day."

“No,” Wong shook his head, “once a year is enough.”

“So is Christmas over now that we exchanged gifts?” Alex asked with a melancholy voice.

“No!" Melissa grabbed a bottle of SKYY vodka. Of course, it was part of Ashner's stash, and she had stolen it. "Now we drink until the sun rises!"

She immediately started making everyone a drink, Gio preferred beer, but he didn’t have it in him to tell the blonde girl no.

The only one who didn’t drink as much was Ashner. He was still too focused on his work to enjoy the holiday.

Alex was the first to crash out wasted, Gio challenged him to a drink off, he lost before Gio even caught a buzz.

The girls huddled together, singing into a microphone attached to a karaoke machine.

Wong called it a night a little after 2 am and went to his room. Gio crashed out on the floor right there.

Eventually, the girls were wasted, and urged Ashner to sing with them. After some debate, he complied.

Then 5 am came around. Ashner was buzzing, but the girls were gone. They were on the couch when Risa grabbed Ashner's leg and pulled herself towards him. Her words were slurring badly with the alcohol. "Master."

“Huh?" She jumped and cuddled his chest. "Never abandon me, my Master."

“I won’t.”

“Such a child." Lina was to Ashner's opposite side, slurring her words just as badly. when Risa jumped Ashner, he had unintentionally invaded her personal space. "Risa, you need to show him more affection."

“Affection?” She rubbed her head against Ashner’s ribs and even started purring.

She purrs? That’s adorable.

"Not like… Like that." Lina grabbed Ashner's chin and brought his head down between her breasts. As soon she did, her face blushed red. "This is how you win a man's heart."

“That’s… Not… FAIR!” Risa pressed her own chest against Ashner’s side. “Using those melons… That’s cheating.”

“Use what you have.” Lina proclaimed proudly, fully aware Risa stood no chance. Ashner pulled away from her chest, blushing.

“Fine," Risa grabbed Ashner's hand and brought it to her chest, making his hand fondle her. "I know I don't compare in size… So how about in softness? My body is harder than hers… That doesn't mean it feels worse in your hands."

Before Ashner had a chance to answer, Lina's chest pressed against Ashner's side. Both girls were unwilling to admit defeat.

“Let him choose.” Risa insisted, Lina smirked.

“Okay," Lina whispered seductively into Ashner's ear. "Do you prefer a real woman's body?"

Risa's eyes sharpened. She shifted gears and went on the offensive. Kissing, then sucking on Ashner's neck, she too whispered in his ear. "My body is more petite… And… I'm a virgin."

Lina wasn’t a virgin, so this was a silver bullet only Risa had. “You could be my… First… Any order you give me… I’ll obey…”

“Now who’s cheating.” Lina teased and giggled.

“Choose." Risa insisted, and both girls waited for an answer.

“I think… You’re both very drunk… My order for you two… Is to go to bed.”

“Okay.” Risa smiled and quickly cuddled herself up against Ashner’s right side.

“You're no fun," Lina whispered in Ashner's ear, but she too obeyed.

A few minutes later, Ashner glanced at the girls. Risa was cuddled up against him on the couch, and Lina had fallen asleep with her head on Ashner's shoulder.

“These girls…”

“Those girls owe you a lot." Melissa walked towards Ashner, this time holding a cup of water. She handed it to Ashner. As she did, Risa's tail moved. "They told me everything you did for them. It's no wonder they care about you so much."

“I care about them too. They're my friends." Ashner stared into Melissa's blue eyes. "I care about you too."

Melissa smiled and stood up. "I gave those two some advice… But I don't seem to be following it myself."

“What are you talking about?”

Melissa knelt down, got on her knees, and closed the distance between her and Ashner, stealing a kiss.

His eyes widened, her aroma was heavy with alcohol, her lips were soft like honey, and her tongue tickled him like a soft bed cover. Lina moaned softly in her sleep, and Risa's nails dug into Ashner's leg. They were asleep and unaware.

Melissa pulled away with a smile. Ashner's heart raced, and his face blushed. Melissa used the two girls around him to prevent him from moving.

“Ashner.” Melissa licked her lips and slurred her words. “I’m the kinkiest girl you’ll ever meet.”

Her hand went to his leg and found his junk. He wore thin pajama pants, so her grip quickly got him hard as she rubbed him over his pants. Ashner glanced at the two sleeping girls near him. Both of them might wake up at any second.

“Nothing gets me wetter than imagining you… Me… Lina… and Risa … Naked together in bed… If you want… I can make it happen…" She grabbed his dick and brought her mouth towards it, licking the tip of his dick over his pajama pants. Ashner fought back a moan, which only made Melissa hornier. She brought it into her mouth then quickly pulled away. "Oh… No…"

Melissa turned her head and threw up, waking up the other girls. Both of them quickly jumped off the couch to help their drunk friend. Neither of them caught an eyeful of Ashner’s erection or his wet pants.

So they celebrated their first Christmas together, and it was one Ashner never forgot.