{[All love is paid in full, with tears.]}

The morning came, and Ashner found himself walking down into the kitchen, the aroma of eggs and bacon heavy in the air. What he found shook and confused him.

“Good morning, Master.” Wearing nothing but an apron in the kitchen stood one of Ashner’s slaves. “Would you like breakfast, a bath… Or perhaps… Me?”

“What the fuck are you doing, Alex?”

“I was told that this was your world’s custom. Gio even bought me this apron.”

“So Gio is responsible for ruining my morning… I’ll make sure to get back at him somehow… And put some clothes on.”

“Does this look not please you?”

“Of course it doesn’t! Maybe if you were a chick.”

Alex’s eyes turned red, and he shifted into a breathtaking woman.

“How about now?” Alex asked, even his voice shifted to something seductive.

Ashner walked up towards him and slapped him hard across the face.

“Ow, ow, ow, ow, ow." The illusion broke, and Alex's eyes watered. "Why?"

Behind them, Gio and Melissa tumbled and laughed.

“Alex, stop letting them mess with you.” Ashner turned to the two troublemakers. “Did you two enjoy your prank?”

“More than you can imagine." Gio giggled. "Don't worry, I got aprons for all the girls…"

“You have some weird fetishes.”

“Oh, you’re one to talk… Master.”

Ashner's face turned red, and Melissa glanced away with a small smile.

I wonder if she remembers last night?

“Where are the other girls?” Ashner asked.

“Passed out and hungover from last night.” Gio started picking up the present wrappers that littered the floor. Then he started setting the table up for breakfast. “Dude, we should start selling alcohol on that side! Imagine how much we can make.”

"It's possible, but we have a few problems."

"What kind?" Gio asked, confused.

“Their economy is crap.” Wong stepped into the kitchen, wearing dark sunglasses. He sat down on the table and popped a few pain pills. “Humanity on that side has cities but not demi’s. They’re barely managing to survive. In order to make a true profit, that side needs to have a thriving economy. That's why we're sticking to selling them essential items they need just to get by, like soap, clothes, food, water, and weapons… Truthfully, our arrangement with them will fade out after a few weeks.”

“Why is that?”

“Because the only way to get money in a society that doesn’t have an economy is by risking their lives for gold. On top of that, our own finances will run dry in about three months.”

“What? How?”

“If we can’t provide an appropriate sum of gold, then our contract will be voided out."

“Okay, that’s serious… Then how do we fix this?”

“Simple.” Ashner talked while he started eating. “We create an economy. A civilization for demi’s to live in safely.”

Alex leaned against the table. “Master! Do you really plan to do that?” His tail wagged back and forth. Both Risa and Lina walked into the kitchen the moment Ashner mentioned his plan. Both the girls were shocked at the very idea of it.

“We’re going to have to seek out other demi races and convince them to join the kingdom. So far, all the elves live inside the castle, but you've ventured outside of it. What did you see?”

“Rotten homes? Yeah, I saw hundreds of them.”

"Thousands." Wong corrected. "What you two might not know is some homes go underground. Some demi's prefer living that way… Not to mention they have plenty of space to farm. The reason they haven't is because someone salted their land."

All the demi's faces became gloomy.

“Damn it.” Lina bit her lip. “We tried farming, and nothing grew… That kingdom is just a ruin.”

“Not necessarily.” Wong smiled at the demi’s… Then he grabbed the salt shaker and spilled the salt on top of Ashner’s breakfast. This earned him a glare. "Sure, we can go through the whole process of flushing the soil and adding lime, sulfur, and calcium until the ground becomes fertile again… Or we can just use your power Ashner… Salt is technically a type of rock, and your power manipulates that…”

“I'll give it a shot since you ruined my breakfast…" Ashner focused on his new power and pressed his palm against the table. He sensed his mana drain slowly, but it wasn't enough to affect him. The salt moved away from his food and gathered in his hand. Then Ashner released his power, and the salt remained there like it was a magnet against his body. "That's pretty cool. How did you figure that out, Wong?”

“Manipulate Sand was the first thing you bought with your new power, so you can separate the salt from anything, that includes the ground and eureka… We have farming land. Lastly, we can bring fertilizer, tools, and our own knowledge… Can you imagine how big of an impact that'll make? And the fact that our elf friends won’t go hungry anymore.”

Lina’s eyes watered, which confused the doctor until she jumped towards Wong and gave him a big hug. "You're a genius! Thank you, Wong!"

"Wasn't expecting that." Wong shook his head. He was still hungover. "Anywho… That's not the biggest issue…"

“What is?” Lina asked.

"Us," Ashner admitted. "When we first entered your kingdom, your people were ready to slaughter us. The only reason your people accepted us was because they were desperate and dying… If we run into the wrong kind of demi's… It might turn deadly…"

“We don’t want that.” Gio shook his head.

“We essentially have a kingdom without citizens.” Ashner took a bite of his bacon. “In a world that hates humans… How can we pull this off?”

“If I may?” Lina spoke up and sat between the group. She was wearing pajama pants and a light top. "Other demi's will decide to stay with us if you offer them safety from other humans… The forest surrounding us is perfect. And if we have crops growing, stocked weapons, and a well-fortified kingdom, they will join us. Simply to survive."

“So you’re saying we need to have everything prepared before we invite other demi’s.”

"Yes."

“Don’t forget the issue that we’re still human.”

“No elf will allow any demi to harm you.” Lina slammed her hand on the table. “My people will fight to the death for you.”

Gio, Wong, and Ashner giggled, which made Lina raise her eyebrow.

“What’s so funny?”

"You, a few weeks ago, you weren't very fond of us, and now you did a full one-eighty."

"I was mistaken… And childish… But I'm not lying. Every time we visit my world. More and more of my people respect you… Gio is loved, Wong is needed, and Ashner is the broken… So please, make this happen."

"It'll take time, and it'll be a lot of hard work…" Ashner glanced at the group. "Is everyone on board?"

Wong nodded, and Gio smiled. Next, Ashner glanced at Melissa and the slaves. "How about you guys?"

“Oh, I don’t have a say in this.” Melissa raised her hands and smiled. “If anything, I’m just a spectator.”

"I'm a slave, you lead, and I'll follow," Risa said her part, and Alex just appeared confused.

"No." Ashner shook his head. "We're a team, so I want everyone on board. Because this change will bring new people, and new threats. So speak your mind.”

"I want it to happen." Lina didn't hesitate. She urged the others to speak up.

"It sounds fun." Alex jumped, and the girls got a good glance at his back, completely aware he was naked. Both of them turned their heads. Melissa, on the other hand, snorted and started laughing again.

“If it’s your decision, I’ll follow it.” Risa nodded.

"What about you, Melissa?" Ashner turned towards the blonde, who stopped laughing.

“Well… Sure. I’ll help you guys out.”

“Then it’s decided.”

"We have another issue." Wong butted in. "We only have the space of a door between our worlds. And if we're going to venture deeper into that world, we need some form of transportation. I'd prefer to take our all-terrain armored vehicle, but with that door size, we'll make do with whatever we can get through… But taking in piece after piece of a car is going to be a hassle."

“I have an idea.” Gio smiled.

*******

“If this works, then you've officially impressed me," Wong commented while rubbing the hood of their Stryker. Ashner had managed to buy it from a retired military veteran. He even managed to attach a fifty-caliber machine gun on top of it. The slaves studied it closely.

“Why does it have eight wheels?” Alex asked as he tapped it. “And why is it made of steel?”

"That's our ideal ride." Wong glanced around. They were inside the underground garage. It had a massive garage entrance. "These are standard for our military. They're a pain in the ass to keep maintained, but they reflect bullets, RPG's and even IED's relatively well. Except… The seats are crap."

"I took care of that." Gio bragged as he lowered the hatch showing to the inside of the truck. Sure enough, he had replaced the seats with more comfortable ones. Wong smiled and tapped Gio's shoulder.

“You are reliable.”

“You know it. So are you ready to test out my idea?”

Ashner nodded. He was standing ahead of the group next to the massive garage entrance. It was hidden behind a sliding gate designed to camouflage with the fence that surrounded their property. And a dirt road that leads to it.

The former owner was paranoid.

Ashner tapped the garage with his key.

The garage slowly changed to wood, and the same designs as before molded themselves around it. Gio pushed the garage door button, and it raised slowly. The light of the white room hit the group, illuminating the dark garage.

Ashner stepped in. To his left was the bed, and straight ahead was an opening, the exact same size as the garage.

I'll be damned. It worked.

“That’s amazing.” Wong smiled.

When they entered, the elves were shocked, to say the least. The door was inside the queen's throne room, and her quarters were deeper in the hallway. So she always had guards nearby. So it was only appropriate that the door remain there.

Ashner carried a few boxes, the gifts for the elves. They were quickly greeted by the queen, who was just as shocked as the rest of her people.

“Ashner?” The queen studied him and the rest of the group. Ashner brought the gifts and handed a few to the queen’s guards.

“This is spectacular." The guard pulled the bow. "It has almost no resistance. With this, I can focus better on my target."

“You brought strange weapons."

“As promised," Ashner handed her a bow, "weapons from my world. If you need more, I'll make sure you get more."

The queen focused on the white room. Where Risa and Alex walked out of, pushing a crate with wheels, it was filled with bows and arrows.

“These weapons…”

“Consider them a gift," Ashner reassured the queen. "In my world, we celebrate a day called Christmas. It's our custom to exchange gifts with our friends and family."

“You consider us your friends?”

“Yeah, unless you disagree?”

“No… It’s just… I’ve never had a human call me their friend before.”

“I see." Ashner focused on her people. A good portion of them were gathering around. Most of them circled Gio, and some who had gotten sick or had recovered from their illnesses chose to follow Wong. But Ashner was still a pariah. On occasion, some elves talked to him, but most kept their distance.

“Who is she?” The elf glanced at Melissa. “A human woman from your world?”

“Yes, she’s my friend, Melissa.”

The blonde waved happily at the busty elf. “Nice to meet you, your highness.”

“And she's polite too." Elana walked towards her, and the two exchanged pleasantries.

“Ashner." Lina paced towards him with a big smile on her face. Behind her walked a dozen elves. Each carrying worn-out farming tools. "We'll show you to the fields."

*******

The kingdom was in ruins. That was no secret. Outside of the castle lay an abandoned and decaying city. It didn't take a genius to figure out at one time. This kingdom was attacked and destroyed. The victors must have salted the land to prevent anyone from living there again. Hatred is universal. It doesn't matter what world you're from.

Lina led Ashner to an abandoned farm. Nothing grew, not even weeds. Risa walked behind him. She always watched his back.

“Please show them." Lina's eyes were eager, and her ears wiggled up and down.

Ashner knelt down and put his hands on the dirt. He hadn't grasped it before since his mana was too frail to measure, but it relied entirely on his willpower. So he willed the earth, and it moved slowly.

Ashner sensed his mana draining, but he wasn't going to let himself pass out. All the salt around him, from ten feet in a circular motion, clung to his arms.

That’s my limit at level ten.

One of the elves carried a bucket. That's where Ashner released his power, and the salt scattered.

“Yes!" Lina jumped up and down. Her people had no words. Magic did exist, but not like anything Ashner had done. "None of us will ever go hungry again!"

Her people cheered and charged Ashner, tapping his side, offering him water, and some of the female elves hugged him.

Ashner continued his work for hours. Until the farm was finally ready. 250 acres of land. By the time he was done. Sweat ran down his body.

Mana Level – 15

It's getting harder and harder to level up my mana. I know it's not a real muscle, but my entire body is pulsing. I don't think anyone will mind if I just take a short nap here.

Opening his eyes, he focused on a woman's face. It was Lina. She smiled and patted his head.

“What are you doing?”

"You exhausted your mana, and you were covered in sweat, so I brought you into my room and changed you." Ashner inspected her. Even if he didn't always admit it, Lina was breathtaking. Her face and body were unreal. "Did you have a good nap?"

"I did, but my work isn't done. The kingdom still has about five more farms." Lina played with his hair. "Not a lot of people work until they collapse, Ashner. It's not a healthy way to live."

“Time isn’t exactly on our side… I can relax once it’s done.”

"No." The elf's ears shot up pridefully. "The sun has set, and you need to get some rest for tomorrow."

She played with his hair, he wasn't a fan of being hugged or even being touched by that matter. An odd habit he gained after he was wrongfully accused. But with Lina, he didn’t mind. "I don't have anything to offer you, as thanks. Without you, I doubt my people would be alive… It's kind of sad that I'm royalty and I can't offer you anything. It's the other way around with us… You always give, even Melissa, that woman was broken, yet you took her in… Asking for nothing in return…"

"I'm not as selfless as you may think," Ashner admitted. "I plan my moves carefully. Unlike Wong, I don't assume the worst, and unlike Gio, I won't blindly trust anyone…"

She soothed Ashner’s back, where he had been whipped. “Then what about this… You scarred your body for me. I still don’t know how that benefited you in any way.”

“I did it because you are my best mediator for your people and me. Even more so than your sister… If you grew to hate me, then everything we've built up until now might've fallen apart… Plus… I once stood back and watched a woman get stoned to death… I didn't act then, so her face still haunts me… I swore to myself to never stand back and be a witness again… I will act, even if it's the wrong choice… After all, I have my own personal goals."

"You mean wealth, women, and power?"

"Yes… I'm greedy, and I want everything… I'll take it all with my hands… By my own free will."

“If I want to do the same thing… Would you permit me?”

Ashner raised his eyebrow. “Of course, do whatever you want to do.”

"Very well." Lina reached down and stole a kiss from Ashner. This made his eyes widen. Her lips were soft like pillows, and her saliva was sweet like strawberries. Her tongue wrapped around his tickling him. After a few seconds, she pulled away. Ashner's face was red. She smiled. "That was more delightful than I imagined."

The door closed and light footsteps dashed away from Lina’s room.

"It seems someone was eavesdropping." Ashner stood up, conflicted with his own emotions. It had only been about a day since Melissa had kissed him. "It had to be Risa, that girl refuses to leave your side… Ashner, you should talk to her."

"Alright." Ashner stepped out of her room. He never in his wildest dreams imagined a woman as gorgeous as Lina taking an interest in him. But his past still haunted him… Deep down, he didn't find it in himself to accept affection. The scars that only he can see prevented him from truly living his life. He found Risa crying. As he closed the distance across the cold passageway, she wiped her tears.

“Master.” She turned away, clearing her face. “I only stepped away for a second.”

"Why are you crying?" Ashner asked. But he guessed the truth.

“Why?” Risa inhaled then turned around with a neutral gaze. “No reason, it’s my duty to protect and serve you… My vow is my word.”

Ashner shook his head. "That's the way a slave thinks… You have every right to express yourself, especially to me…"

Risa debated it for a few seconds, fighting back her desire to open up.

"Don't make me order you… Out of everyone, you're the only one who refuses to stop acting like a slave. It makes it so hard to read you… So please tell me what you really think."

“What I think?” Risa’s tears came down again. “I’m selfish… I’m needy… And I know how much others care about you… Yet I want you all for myself… I thought I could deal with it… Because you never take much interest in anyone… It never occurred to me that someone would chase after you…”

“Risa.”

"Do you hate me?" She grabbed Ashner's arms. "After our first night together… I was so happy you stopped yourself… Because I was so scared of you… Some days you still scare me… That was then… Now I can't stop my own sensations. I can't pretend these feelings aren't real… So Ashner… WHY DON'T YOU EVER LOOK AT ME!"

Ashner stepped back. Risa kept holding his arms, demanding an answer.

“Any order… I’ll obey… Do you not like me anymore? Am I an ugly woman to you?”

“… No… You’re beautiful.”

“Then why!” She clung to him. “Why do you keep treating me like you hurt me? When you did the complete opposite!”

“Risa…”

"I know I'm childish and immature… But when it comes to you, I'm certain that what I feel is real… When I saw Lina kiss you… I thought I might lose you to her… And I hate losing… So look at me… TRULY LOOK AT ME! AND ACCEPT HOW I FEEL ABOUT YOU!”

"I'm looking. You've always been beautiful to me... I will never deny that."

Risa smiled, and Ashner's heart raced. She held an incredible allure. Different but not less than Lina's. She dug her nails into Ashner's arms, making him clinch down. She was the shortest of all the girls. Even on her tippy toes, she wasn't tall enough to reach Ashner's lips.

She kissed him.

Then she bit his neck, hard enough to leave her bite visible.

“What was that for?” Ashner asked with a glare.

“Even if I don’t win. Everyone will know that I claimed you.” Risa stepped back and used her power to dash out of the kingdom.

“What the hell was that?” Ashner rubbed his neck.

"That's how a jealous woman acts." Melissa stepped towards him, it was still early in the night, and she wore elven clothing. "Did something happen?"

Ashner’s face turned red. “Nothing you should concern yourself with.”

“Oh?” Melissa leaned towards him and smiled. “So Lina didn’t kiss you?”

Ashner’s eyebrows raised.

"Who do you think told her to clean you up? And who do you think told Risa to keep watch outside your room?"

“You did all that? Why?”

Melissa caressed Ashner’s neck, where Risa had marked him.

“Risa sure loves to bite things and always needs a push to act on her own, and Lina is hesitant to act on her true emotions, but lately, she's been opening up… And lastly you… When it comes to you… I'm just trying to fix what I broke."

“You didn’t break me.”

“Ensley committed the crime, but I still lied at our trial… I requested not to be there, but I still did it… I talked to Gio and Wong, the man you were before me, that's the thing I broke… I think a part of me wanted you to hate me… So I could continue hating myself."

“I can never hate you.”

“Then I'll do the next best thing… I'm aware that you want a harem." She smirked, which made Ashner tilt his head away from her. "Gio told me. That man is bad at keeping secrets."

“It's a childish dream… Sure, I won't deny it, but that'll never happen."

“I don’t think it’s impossible… You did have two beautiful girls kiss you recently.” She clasped Ashner’s face. “You should chase your dream… Even if it feels silly.”

With that, she walked away deeper into the castle. One room was set up for her. As she left, Ashner confessed something to himself.

“You’re wrong… I had three beautiful girls kiss me.”

*******

Ashner worked on the second farm, removing the salt from it. Risa, as always, protected him. But she kept her distance.

"Ashner!" Gio rushed towards him, carrying two bags of fertilizer. Behind him walked Wong. "The first farm is ready, and we brought over farming equipment and even seeds from our world."

“I thought you didn't want to intermingle our world's vegetation." Ashner raised his eyebrow towards Wong, who explained something to him.

“This world is dying." Wong dropped a tomato seed into the ground. Then soothed his power over it, the seed bloomed in seconds and started growing. Before it turned red, Wong stopped. He was still learning how to use his power. "Turns out I have two affinities. Nature and water, comparing this world to ours. The salt isn't the only thing slowly poisoning this world… The Dead God they speak of is very real. It's killing all life. Using its monsters to spread its influence."

“Wong?" Wong was technical with everything he did.

“It's killing edible vegetation, but I rationalized something." Wong dabbed the tomato. "It can't kill our world's vegetation… We can stop it."

“How?”

“By destroying as many dungeons as we can.”

“That’s suicide.”

“We have to think of something. This world won't last more than a few years at this rate." Wong soothed his power again, creating more vegetables. "Ashner, our plans will fall apart if this world dies… I actually like the people here."

“We'll save the world tomorrow, today. Let's do what we can."

Wong nodded and followed behind Ashner, creating tomatoes, potatoes, bell peppers, beans, eggplants, cucumbers, corn, and pumpkins.

All the while, locals followed behind.

*******

“Why is this so complicated to wear." The queen studied herself in a mirror, one that Gio had gifted her. Her handmaidens were dressing her up. "I do enjoy the needlework, and it's almost an exact replica."

Gio walked in. He had a habit of never knocking.

“Oh." The queen's ears shot up, and her eyes widened. As soon as Gio entered, her handmaidens rushed out.

“Oh… My… God…” Gio dropped his bag full of snacks.

“It's not what it looks like." She scoffed. “I just wanted to try a new look.”

The queen wore a black and white maid outfit. One that revealed a good portion of her chest and was decorated with white ribbons around her breasts. Below that she had white leggings and a headpiece made with white roses.

“I always liked Rem's fashion sense, and it's unique and practically unheard of in my world. So I had my maids create one, it's not perfect, but I enjoy it."

“You’re cosplaying.” Gio just about started crying. “Why are you so hot?”

“I am not hot, the sunset hours ago, if anything I'm rather chilly, this maid outfit, as you call it. Is comfortable but it leaves my chest and upper thighs exposed." Her blue hair ran down her back, but she had brought it up to try to match Rem's features more. "Gio, is this to your liking?"

Gio smiled and walked up towards her with a passionate gaze, one that mixed with fire and ambition. The queen took a step back.

“Gio?" The queen glanced at her outfit, presuming that she had messed it up somewhere. "Is this not to your liking?"

Gio marched up towards her. As he did, her heart raced. Then he reached in and kissed her.

“Gio?" Her eyes lit up. She kissed him back, pressing her thick body against his strong one until her reasoning returned to her. "Stop, I'm the queen."

Gio smiled and kissed her neck. “Then call your guards, tell them to stop me.”

Elana moaned softly, then gritted her teeth. Once Gio's lips found hers, she pushed him onto her bed. Her face was burning red, and her heart raced. Slowly but surely, her nipples got hard from underneath her thin top.

“My body hasn't felt like this in so long…" She lifted her skirt up and glanced away bashfully. "You're cruel…"

“Then why are you undressing?” Gio smiled as Elana quickly tossed aside her headpiece and started undoing the buttons on her back. Her eyes filled with lust. “Do you want me that bad?”

“Of course not!" The queen shouted, but she wasn't fooling Gio. "I am the queen. I take what I want. When I want it."

She mounted Gio and quickly undid his pants, grabbing his manhood. Her hands were soft like silk.

“I think you're the kind of woman who likes to beg." Gio teased, which only infuriated Elana. She squeezed hard enough to make him moan.

“I won't beg." Her arrogant pride forced her not to.

“You won't?" Gio grabbed her shoulders and flipped her over, and now she was under him. Her face burned red, and her maid outfit had come undone. Elana's large chest was visible to Gio. His hand grabbed one of her boobs. Enjoying the elasticity. As he did, the queen moaned softly, losing her strength fast. She sensed a line of her juices go down her left leg. "Beg."

“Never!” The queen half-heartedly yelled.

Gio sucked on her boobs, one after the other, making her squirm with pleasure. Then once again, he pulled back. "Beg."

“… No…" Elana became lightheaded. She bit her lip as her body grew wetter. Gio finally slapped his dick on her leg, sending a shock across her body. Inches away from her pussy.

“Beg… Or I’m leaving.”

The queen moaned softly. “Please…”

“Please what?”

“Please… Make me yours… Color me in white…”

Gio thrust inside her and she moaned loudly and delightfully.

Elana's chest and body shook violently with his strength. And years of frustration left her body in moans. Thrust after thrust until she was begging and begging for more.

Outside of her chambers, two handmaiden's glanced at each other. Fully aware of what was happening in the queen's chambers. They both giggled.

“Finally." The taller one spoke. "But she's loud. The whole kingdom will catch on by tomorrow morning."

The other snickered. "The whole kingdom knows she's love-struck… And it's not like we're going to run into any elven noble's or demi royalty… I, for one, am happy for them… Just not too happy to stand out here and hear it all… She's so loud."

Once again, the two giggled. Gossip was bound to follow the next morning.

*******

“It’s been a week.” Ashner studied the pile of gold the elves had provided them. It wasn’t much of anything. About fifty pounds. “Was this all you found?”

The queen lowered her head. "Since the hellhounds have been eradicated, my warriors have only found a handful of wandering monsters… I do apologize if this isn't to your liking."

“It’s okay, this was always a possibility, and we still have a portion saved up in our world.”

“Gio told me of your plan to unite demi's under a single kingdom. Truthfully, it's something I desire as well… A long time ago, I met a group of strong demi-bats."

“Demi-bats?”

“They were a stubborn group, strong and masters of stealth. They played a huge role when the war started, but once humanity started enslaving demi's, they closed their doors and hid away in a mountain. It's northeast from here. If they survived, you'd find them there. I'd like you to go take me with you."

“Going north is dangerous, and why do you want to go?”

“Because I'm still a queen. If I go there personally, it'll prove that we're serious."

“How many days will it take to get there?”

“It will take three weeks on horseback.”

“We can take our armored vehicle. We'll get there much quicker."

“As you wish, I also want to bring some of my guards. If they can see humans and elves working together side by side, it'll greatly increase our chances of them joining our cause… If anything, we can at least try to establish a trade route."

“Why haven’t you tried to make contact before?”

“I've lost enough of my kin in the war. Every demi race has… At this point, I truly believe demi's are just striving to survive… I didn't want to risk their lives since we didn't have anything to offer them anyway. There was no point in reaching out to them."

“We can go once I finish with the farm. Wong has been teaching your farmers how to tend to the crops from our world. If we're taking a long journey like that, then I'm going to need time to gather supplies on my side."

“Do what you must." The queen bowed gracefully. As she did, Gio found his way towards them. She caught a glance of him and immediately dashed off into the kingdom.

“Again?” Gio studied her as she hid away from him. “I think I pissed her off.”

“What did you do?” Ashner asked.

“He porked her." Wong had been eavesdropping, and he just had to tease Gio.

“I… Well… She was wearing a Rem cosplay… And well… Yeah…”

Wong giggled, “I didn’t take you as the bashful type.”

“I'm not… But ever since we did the deed, she's been ignoring me. It's been a week, and she always runs away when I try to talk to her."

“Just give her some time… I mean, I'm not royalty but did you ever consider her position. Sleeping with someone without a title and a human to top it off must be affecting her social standing."

“Either that.” Ashner addressed the two. “Or she’s just embarrassed.”

“… Women are complicated, regardless of the world."

*******

Returning to the mansion, the group was in a cheerier mood.

Especially Lina, who had spent more time than anyone with Ashner. Risa was the complete opposite. She had kept her distance. And Melissa just sat back and enjoyed the show.

Gio was all smiles.

And Wong stayed in his study. He was determined to improve his mana.

Alex had gotten into the habit of watching anime with Gio and became obsessed with cleaning in his butler outfit. He was doing just that in the early hours of the night until a knock at the door broke his momentum.

Alex opened the door.

"ASHNER!" The woman rushed through the corridor directly into the main living room where Gio, Wong, and Ashner were. The girls were upstairs but took a peek down at the commotion.

“She just rushed right in." Alex wasn't entirely sure how to react, but none of the guys blamed him.

“Take your leave, butler.” The women put Alex in his place, at least in her mind. Surprisingly Alex submitted and walked away from her, heading upstairs towards the girls.

“Hey, Iris." Ashner sensed his heart drop into his stomach. He expected her to be madder. Instead, she put her purse on a table, her hair had just been recently cut, and she even wore dark shades. She sported clothes and jewelry that were easily worth thousands of dollars.

“I’m so proud of you.” She smiled.

Ashner raised his eyebrow, then before he mentioned anything, Wong put his hand on his shoulder. The doctor urged Ashner to tread lightly with his words.

“Thank you," Ashner replied half-heartedly. "How did you find me?"

"You're registered. I can always find you when I need to. I just didn't expect you to move so far out here." She helped herself to the minibar and started pouring herself a cup of wine. "So I'm guessing you took back your percentage."

How does she know about that?

"Of course he did," Wong answered for Ashner. "It's not set in stone, but as you can see."

Wong motioned his hands to the luxurious house. “He’s winning so far.”

“I love winners.” Iris sipped on her drink. “This place is much better than that crappy apartment you lived in a few weeks ago.”

She sipped on her drink happily. Ashner reminisced on her smile. When they were younger, she was filled with life and happiness. But she hadn’t smiled at him in years.

“Why are you here?" Ashner asked. He wasn't in the mood to deal with her games.

“To congratulate you… And to bring someone…" She glanced back, and in the hallway stood another one of Ashner's childhood friends, Jorge. In his hands, he carried a baby.

Ashner stood up so quickly a sofa pillow fell next to him.

The baby boy studied the world around him.

“Jorge…” Ashner recalled the days when they would stay up late playing video games… A time long forgotten.

“Go ahead and say hi to him." Iris urged Ashner, who took quick steps toward the baby.

As he closed the distance he clasped his son's hand, Jorge spoke softly enough for only Ashner to tune in. "Help me."

Ashner raised his eyebrow and glanced up at Jorge. He didn't say a word after. Instead, his eyes became distant.

Help him? From what?

“What do you want, Iris. Money?”

“I have money, I always did… What I wanted more than anything is for you to grow a pair and get back what was yours. Sixty percent of one of the most wealthiest companies in the world. And of course, my own company has grown, and we're ready to expand into a different field, metal."

“What are you aiming for?" Ashner turned his head back at Iris, who was smirking. Even now, he hated how attractive she was. Even if she was a total bitch to him, he wouldn't deny that he would happily hate fuck her.

“A merger, with your companies connections and my companies equipment manufacturing, we can easily create a monopoly, but that'll also mean we have to beat your stepdad in his own game… He did steal what was yours, so let's destroy him… Together."

Why am I not surprised that she was only after more money…

“And if I refuse?” Ashner crossed his arms.

“You're a rapist." She sipped on her drink. The word cut Ashner deep. "That's common knowledge. A few rumors will spread, and you'll end up losing support from our sponsors. I give it at least a year until you end up with nothing… You have to understand. I'm tossing you a safety net. Take it."

“I…”

“Think of our child… If you don’t do this, he’ll never see you again.”

Ashner stopped and digested her words. He did start his own company, and if rumors spread about his past, then they might cut him off. Once again, his past was itching to destroy him. Obtaining and maintaining power was always a constant struggle.

"He already has enough on his plate. His father is a criminal that raped a poor, defenseless girl."

"SHUT UP!" A scream echoed from upstairs. Iris glanced up and dropped her wine glass.

It shattered and spilled red wine around her feet. Melissa's eyes were ominous.

The blonde paced downstairs, keeping her glare on Iris. Behind her, Lina and Risa followed.

“Why are you here?”

"I trusted you." Melissa's voice was rough and violent. "I confided in you!"

Iris shook like she just saw a ghost.

“How are you here?” Iris asked again.

“I told you the truth years ago! What Ensley did to me… What Ashner did… So why are you lying!”

Melissa pressed her hands against the table, on the opposite side of Iris. The blonde's blue eyes stared her down like a lioness eyeing her prey.

“Say something," Melissa demanded.

"You told me eight men raped you… Get over yourself. You're not that pretty. Did you ever consider that you just made up that story for attention?"

“You cunt… You can tell me whatever you want, but you leave Ashner alone… He… Never… Touched… Me…”

Iris regained her composure and helped herself to more wine in a new cup. "That's not what you said in court, so stop defending your rapist. It's pathetic."

“You know the truth, you always knew… And after the trial, you never talked to me again. You pushed me away, and I'm starting to see why. You’re using a baby as leverage so that you can get more money? What's wrong with you?"

Iris chuckled. This whole situation was ridiculous to her. "Yes, I'm using our child." She glanced at Ashner.

“You’re worthless as a human being, and that goes double for you as a father. You should be grateful that I’m even considering allowing you to make money once this starts off.”

Ashner lowered his head.

"You can buy a mansion, cut your hair, shave your beard, dress nicely and make millions… But you will never stop being a loser! A rapist! And a tool!"

Both Lina and Risa were preparing themselves to fight. Gio had even gripped Wong's shoulder in case he resolved himself to do something. Alex was still upstairs, witnessing everything.

"I WON'T FORGET WHAT YOU ARE! NO ONE WILL EVER FORGET! IF YOUR DAD WAS STILL ALIVE, HE WOULD HATE YOUR GUTS!"

Ashner's chest hurt. Even if he wanted things to change, deep down, he buried the truth. Nobody pities or likes rapists. His stigma will never fade, it'll never change, and the world will cheer the day he dies.

"NO WONDER YOU WERE A VIRGIN BEFORE I PITY FUCKED YOU!" She stood up from her seat and unleashed her wrath. "IF YOU HAD ANY SENSE, YOU'D PUT A BULLET IN YOUR HEAD!"

Melissa stepped back, away from Iris. Then caressed Ashner’s head, making him lift it up. She inhaled and kissed him.

"What?" That shut Iris up. Their kiss lasted a few seconds, leaving both Risa and Lina confused as well. Melissa stepped away from Ashner. Licking her lips with a smile.

Iris' face showed clear signs of disgust. "Do you have Stockholm Syndrome?"

“Is it so hard to believe that I actually care about Ashner? That a woman can see his good qualities and act on them?”

"That loser, no one will ever care about him, much less love him!"

Lina stepped up and kissed Ashner's lips next, confusing Iris even more. "What?"

Right after her, Risa kissed him next, her knees shaking. "Me too." She smiled.

“What’s going on?” Iris put down her wine.

Alex mouthed towards Gio. 'Should I kiss him too?' Gio mouthed a firm 'No.'

"They just want your money Ashner. These girls don't care about you." Iris scoffed.

Lina pressed Ashner's arm between her breasts, and Risa cuddled Ashner's back. Melissa smiled at the girls. Ashner found his heart racing, and he smiled.

It pissed Iris off.

“THEY’RE JUST USING YOU!”

Melissa scoffed softly and stepped up toward Iris, getting a few inches from her face. “Stop making up stories… It makes you look… Pathetic.”

“You were a bitch then, and you're one now." Iris grabbed her purse. "We're done here. The deal is off! You'll never see our kid again!"

Ashner's heart went down to his stomach.

Until a meek voice broke the silence.

“He’s not yours.”

The group glanced at Jorge, who held the baby.

"What are you saying?" Iris' eyes widened.

"I'm sorry, Ashner…" Jorge's face was empty, and his voice was raspy like he hadn't spoken in years. "My father's company went under, so Iris absorbed it, and now her own company is struggling… We were planning to use you… I just can't do it anymore… I miss who we used to be…"

“SHUT UP!” Iris roared loud enough to make the baby cry. “You’re talking nonsense.”

“Is he?” Wong crossed his arms and turned towards Ashner. “Do you remember sleeping with Iris?”

"No… Just the morning after…"

Wong glared at Iris, and he held a smile. "So all we need is a DNA test to prove that Ashner is the father… Since I'm a doctor, I'd be more than glad to administer that test."

Iris glanced around. It was obvious to everyone that she had been caught in her lie. Her rage returned and went towards Jorge. "YOU FUCKING IDIOT! CAN'T YOU DO ANYTHING RIGHT!"

Jorge’s eyes and head went down to the floor.

She’s been abusing him… That’s why he asked me for help…

“You know what. Fuck you.” Iris glared at Melissa. “FUCK ALL OF YOU!”

She rushed up toward Ashner. “Just give me what I want… We’ll still make millions!”

Ashner sighed. Both the girls holding him were more than willing to attack and even kill Iris if Ashner asked them to. "You were the first girl I ever cared for… The first girl I ever truly liked… It's no secret that you're attractive and desired… But that's just the surface… You're rotten right down to your core… But at one time we were friends… The three of us, and I always assumed I was the one that fucked things up… But it wasn't me… It was you… Your greed and your hatred run so cold it can freeze the stars in the sky…"

Ashner stepped forward and glared down at Iris. His eyes were frightening, so much that Iris found herself trembling. "I will never help you… But just know, if you had valued me as a friend, I would've said yes… I refuse to be a part of your schemes so kindly. FUCK OFF!

Iris took a step back. She was so enraged she started shedding tears. Instead of speaking to Ashner, she took a few steps away and yelled at her punching bag.

“JORGE! WE’RE HAVING A LONG TALK WHEN WE GET HOME!”

She skittered off outside. Leaving Jorge and her son behind in Ashner’s home.

Ashner turned towards Jorge, who was trembling. "Jorge?"

He shook his head. "Ashner, I know I don't deserve it… But I'm sorry… Iris controls my entire life, and I can never get away from her… She's a nightmare… Even so… I deserve her, and I deserve so much more punishment for betraying you… I'm so sorry…"

Ashner stayed silent. He wasn’t the only one suffering.

“If you need to get away from her, I’ll help you.”

"No." Jorge held the baby. "If I go, then this little one will become the thing she starts to abuse… He's not mine, but I love him so much… So I'll endure it all, for him…"

Ashner grabbed Jorge's shoulder. "I don't hate you, but I don't think we can ever go back to how we used to be…"

“I understand.” Jorge mustered a small smile. “As long as you don’t hate me, I can live with that.”

"Oh fuck..." Ashner just rationalized something harsh. "If I never slept with Iris... Then I'm still a virgin."

Gio started laughing hysterically. Wong started snorting, and even Melissa glanced away with a smirk.

"I'm such a loser."

*******

Iris closed the door to her car. Her rage was still fuming. “How did that fucking loser get three women? And that fucking dumb-ass spilled the beans, so now I have no leverage…"

Iris pulled out her phone and made a call. The line rang a few times until a male voice picked up.

"Hey, Iris. How did your negotiation go with that rapist? Did he surrender his sixty percent to you?"

"No. He found out the truth… Things are about to get more complicated if I don't have his percentage. If I don't merge with his company, then we won't be able to supply you directly, and our companies will start to crumble."

"Your company, not mine." The voice corrected.

“Details.” Iris scoffed. “I can still go after Mike. Oh, and something interesting just occurred… You know that little cum-dumpster you lost a few months back…”

“Melissa?”

“Yes, that blonde you decided to have a gang bang with…” Iris smiled. Revenge was a dish she savored. “Ensley… You’ll never believe where I found her.”