{[Regardless of your circumstances, learn to catch your dreams and find love regardless of your sorrows.]}

“That answer is simple.” Wong tapped his fingers against his shoulder. “Food.”

The group sat around the Stryker, some of them sat on picnic chairs, and others leaned against the armored vehicle.

Gio yawned. “Do we really need to discuss this now? We just drove back and forth, eight times.”

“The castle is large, but it won't hold three hundred people, much less two thousand." Elana intervened. Next to her were her royal guards. They were on edge with all the demi-bats. But the queen gave a royal order not to harm any of them. "Without a proper home for them, they'll end up freezing during the night… Winter is around the corner."

“All the more reason to focus on food. We need to start farming and stockpiling food now."

“Where will we store it?" Elana tilted her head. "The forest of fear keeps monsters at bay, but not rodents and bugs. If we fail to store our harvest properly, do you know what will happen?"

Wong lowered his jaw, admitting his fault. "If that happens, then disease and illness will spread…"

“Then our options are to freeze and get sick or starve." Ashner crossed his arms. "It took us three days to bring all these people here, and now they're making their homes inside the rotten buildings. I need solutions… Anyone have any ideas?"

Gio’s helmet slammed against the Stryker, and he started snoring.

The rest of the group was exhausted. Alex was eager to learn how to drive, so he volunteered and made the trip twice. Risa tried it as well. After twenty minutes of that madness, the group swore never to let her near a steering wheel again.

“Can’t you use your power to fix the buildings?” Wong asked, fighting his tired eyes.

“I already tried, I can repair the cracks, but I can't add materials… At this point, rebuilding the homes from scratch is a better choice… Either way, with this many people, it's a fight against time. Every day, our food sources dwindle… Even if we buy food from our world, gathering it for two thousand people is too much work for us. And we would need to bring it in every single day…"

“Food isn't the biggest issue," Wong added. "Water is, this kingdom has a single well, and it wasn't enough for four hundred elves. Now that we have over two thousand people we need a proper solution… Talk about jumping the gun…"

“It was necessary. Now we have a direction to go." The queen remarked as the moonlight reflected off her fair skin. Ashner caught that Elana was studying Gio with a smile.

As jealous as I am that he got laid… I’m happy that he can make a woman smile like that… Gio, you are an amazing man…

Little did Ashner grasp that both Lina and Risa were staring at him in the exact same way, at the same time.

Wong took heed of the situation and sighed. He was surrounded by way too many horny individuals.

“How far apart are these two groups?” Ashner leered at his newest slave, Caitlin. She had refused to travel inside the truck and had threatened to kill Ashner several times under her breath.

“They’re four hours away from each other…”

"Then let's just go to one group and then immediately go to the other," Gio whined. "It's stupid waiting for an entire race of people to settle and then going after another… Let's do that so I can get some shut-eye."

Wong and Ashner studied each other… Gio had given a simple answer proving that the two had been overthinking it… They both nodded.

"Alright, we'll go out tomorrow. For now, let's get some rest… Everyone deserves it after the long hours we've had on the road… I’ll make a plan for us tomorrow.”

“Yeah… Yeah…” Gio tumbled out of his chair and landed on the dirt. He was out.

That meathead, on occasion, is a genius.

*******

Ashner resolved himself to sleep in the white room. Despite everything, the mysterious room between worlds always kept a pleasant temperature. He typed on his laptop, deciding where his finances would go.

The cost of their mansion, the expected payout of their gold, and the cost of maintaining relationships between both worlds.

One thing was clear. This world's gold offered more than he can give back. Hundreds of pounds of gold coins had made him a fortune. Yet this side of the world still suffered. The issue wasn't buying what was needed. The issue was delivering it… People would start asking questions if hundreds of pounds of food and water suddenly appeared at a house… Daily essentials were easily written off, but not something perishable… Not to mention the water was much heavier to transport.

“This is a mess," Ashner admitted. "More people require more hands to work… I can't afford to bring other people into this world. That's too risky…”

"What's bothering you?" Lina walked into the room, and she wore a thin silk two-piece. It was white, and the fabric hugged her curves. An outfit she chose from Ashner's world. In her hand, she carried a candlestick with a burning rock to guide her in the night. In her other hand, she carried a cup.

“Finances, trying to balance my life here and the other world… It’s stressful…”

Lina paced towards Ashner and put her cup on the dresser next to him. She added a cube of sugar and started stirring her tea. “Stress leads to depression, and depression leads to death… Why not give Wong some responsibilities? He’s more than qualified, or Gio or even Melissa?”

"Wong has his hands full with creating food and ensuring everyone stays healthy. I can't ask him to do more. Gio is a good man, but I can't trust him with money… Last time I did, he bought a limited edition anime figure… He blew a tenth of our profits on it… He wasn't even ashamed…"

“What about Melissa?” Lina handed him the cup. “She specializes in organization and accountability… At least, she told me that was her job when she was in the military.”

“She was in supply, but I don’t want to ask her to do anything.” Ashner sighed.

“Melissa is very adamant about helping the group… She feels like you’re pushing her talents away… If it’s not too much to ask, let her help you.”

Ashner stopped typing. "Yeah, why not? I'll give her some responsibilities. She is freeloading… Plus, it'll help me out.

He sipped on his drink. "Oh, this is good." Ashner's face lit up.

Lina gave a smug smile. "I am an elf. Before the war, we were renowned for our tea, bread, and sweets."

Ashner sipped the whole thing and put the cup down, and exhaled. "What is that rock?"

Lina grabbed the candlestick where she held the stone and brought it closer to him. “It’s a flame stone, infused with fire." She poured her mana into the stone, and the flame danced.

“These stones generate flames if you pour mana into them and fade out once the mana subsides." Ashner studied the stone. "How many of those do you have?"

"Only a few, these are a lost relic. Elves, humans, and dwarfs used to create them in the era of victory. Some stones are useless, except maybe the water stones. If you infuse those with magic, then it will create water."

There’s my solution.

"Do you have any of those?" Ashner gripped her hand. She shook with his sudden embrace. “And what do you mean by useless ones?”

“Excuse me.” She bowed and took her leave.

I'm aware not every demi has an affinity for magic, but every demi-bat does. So if we can get our hands on enough of these water stones, our water problem will be solved.

Lina reemerged, holding a basket filled with odd stones. They each had a unique ruin carved into them. They were all gray and, on average, about the size of a shoe.

She handed Ashner a flame stone. He studied it and apprehended that it had been chipped. As he grazed it, Lina explained. "The stones need to be carved. That's where the mana is released as flame or water."

Ashner studied the water stone. Sure enough, it had a chip on it. About as large as a water faucet. He poured his mana into the stone and held it over the empty cup. Water filled it up.

“Interesting… What about the useless ones?”

The green-haired elf handed him another stone. Ashner focused his power on it.

A small spark wiggled out of its crack.

No way, this stone… I need to try something.

Ashner willed his power into the stone, manipulating it, ensuring that the mark wasn't damaged. He shifted it into the shape of a battery.

With these, we won't have to worry about electricity… And with the water stone, we won't have to worry about water… This world has so many hidden potentials… Wong is going to flip when he sees this.

While he fiddled with it, Lina served him another cup of tea. She had carried it in the basket. She used the water Ashner had already poured in the cup and dropped two sugar cubes into it.

“This will help us further advance your city.” Lina raised her eyebrow and tapped her spoon on the cup.

“How?”

“We can create the same things from our home… Like running water, electricity… That means we can create a sewer system, every home will have light and if we go even further, heaters and air conditioners. Not to mention we can create bathrooms and showers…"

"Wong told me electricity and plumbing require hundreds of people to maintain and produce, and he told me it was impossible in my world… Are you saying everyone can enjoy the luxuries of your world?"

"Yes." Lina smiled. When she did, Ashner's heart skipped a beat.

I forget how hot she is sometimes.

“Let’s do it!” She leaned in, unaware of how dangerously close her body got to Ashner. “I want all my people to enjoy the luxuries your world has.”

She’s extremely happy… Even her ears are wiggling.

Ashner sipped on his drink. "This is seriously good… I bet you'll make your future husband happy with your talent."

“Husband?” Her face blushed.

“Yeah, just because you’re my slave doesn’t mean I’ll prevent you from marrying someone you like… Honestly, if you want to stop coming into my world and stay in this one. I won’t stop you.”

“Well… I… I do like someone… It’s just that…” She sighed and regained her composure. “He just happens to be my master. And I honestly doubt you ever considered marrying me.”

Oh, that’s how it is… Well, she’s right… I haven’t ever considered marrying her… Or anyone other than Iris… Iris… That woman spoiled the idea of marriage for me…

“Would you…” She fought to bring her words out. “Would you ever consider marrying me? If you do, I’ll do everything for you… I’ll serve you in every way you desire…”

She's trembling. I guess a slave always tells their master what they want to hear. But she did kiss me… Maybe… Ugh, women are too complicated…

"I just want you to be happy." Ashner finished his drink. "You don't have to force yourself to serve me. Find someone you truly love and serve them…"

Lina glared at him.

"Master." Lina addressed Ashner with a formal tone.

“You don’t have to call me master.”

“Sometimes you’re a little too dense…” She scoffed.

"Lay off with the master. It's something women say when they're having sex in my world."

Lina’s ears shot straight up.

“Your world doesn’t do that?”

Lina shook her head, again blushing…

“So when I call you master… Do you think of me… In that way?”

"… Sometimes… I can't help it. You're gorgeous…"

Lina's ears turned red. She grabbed the empty cup and dashed out without saying a word.

Ashner tilted his head as she escaped her situation.

Great, now she thinks I’m a perv…

Lina slammed the door to her room and fell on her butt. Still blushing… She spoke to herself.

"Come on, Lina… Why are you acting so childish? You even ran away from him when he was clearly interested…" She covered her face with her hands. "Idiot.”

“At this rate, Risa is going to snatch him up from me…" She tapped her head against her door. "Idiot, idiot, idiot."

*******

In the morning, Ashner found Gio doing maintenance checks on the Stryker, and young elves surrounded him. They were children satisfying their curiosity, toying with the wheels and the metal.

"Mr. Gio." One of them was hiding behind the large tire. "Can we drive one of these one day?"

“I don’t see why not?” He fiddled with his equipment, searching for the right tool. “With Wong and Ashner, don’t be surprised if your world changes for the better… They’ll make sure you never go hungry.”

The kids awed at his remarks.

"You should come out too," Gio spoke louder to a demi-bat girl, hiding behind a destroyed home. The girl yelped then slowly showed herself.

"Come here. Hiding won't help you make friends."

The elves kept their distance, unaware of how to talk to her.

"What's your name, little girl?" Gio asked with a smile.

“I’m Eri.” She sheepishly admitted.

“Nice to meet you Eri, I’m Gio.”

One of the kids tapped on his shoulder and whispered in his ear. Ashner didn’t need to eavesdrop to guess what the kid said.

Gio only laughed at the comment and turned towards the elves.

“Artini.” His gaze went to one of the shyer elves. “What is my race?”

“You’re a human…”

"That's right, and humans enslave demi's… So why do you play with me?"

“Because… You’re not scary like the other humans…”

“Exactly.” Gio grabbed Eri and put her between himself and the elven children. “Never judge a person before you get to know them… The king that brought the slave curse into this world is gone… Eri wasn’t alive when that happened, nor should she be punished for what he did… Respect her the way you respect me… Can you do that? Little ones.”

The elves nodded, but they kept silent, just staring at the girl. She started fidgeting until Artini walked up towards her. He smiled and said. "Hello, I'm Artini."

Now that’s interesting… Gio can connect with just about anyone…

One of the elves appraised Ashner then whispered. "It's the broken." He dashed away, and soon the rest of the children, including Eri, followed.

Figures.

"Ashner!" Gio didn't glance back. "I'm just doing some minor checks and modifications. I topped off the big girl, and we should be good to go whenever you give the order."

"You're good with kids," Ashner commented.

"I can relate to them…" Gio wiped his sweaty brow. "I didn't have much of a childhood… Sure my dad got better, and I forgave him for everything he put me through… But that wasn't easy, and before I knew it, I was an adult…"

“I’m sorry.”

"Don't be. Everyone carries their own burdens. That's why I don't agree with the term. 'grow up' some of us had absent, abusive, distant, or disabled parents. And I know for a fact others had to step up and be the big brother or sister. Giving up their childhood for the good of others, or it was just robbed from them… So what's wrong with living it when you're older? We can't change the past, but we can make our future better… And we can give those kids a better future… I know you and Wong will give them that… Until then, just give me your orders, and I'll follow them."

Ashner shook his head. "Don't sell yourself short… Those kids, and even most of the citizens in this city trust you… Without you, we would never have gotten this far."

“Aww shucks, you’re gonna make me blush.” Gio smiled.

"Morning, guys." Wong walked towards the two, carrying his medic bag. He studied some of the locals as he passed by them. They waved, and one even offered him some fruit. "Ashner, we need more medicine from our world. Start writing it down cause it's a lot."

"Actually." Melissa popped her head out from behind the Stryker. The rest of the demi's walked with her. "Let me do that… Ashner permitted me to organize our finances and equipment."

"Very well," Wong walked up towards her and started telling her what he needed. As he spoke, she wrote down everything. Melissa was delighted, even if some of the things Wong told her to buy made no sense.

I’m glad I took Lina’s advice.

"Everyone seems to be here." Elana found her way towards the group. Two royal guards and two handmaidens surrounded her. And the king of the demi-bats.

"We're going after the demi-bunnies first," Ashner spoke to her and everyone else. "We don't know how large their population is, and unlike the demi-bats, they can't fly, so if we convince them and the dwarfs to join forces with us. We're going to have to escort them back with us. That means."

“More driving!” Alex cheered while Gio sighed.

“Yes.”

“Why not use more of these mechanical beasts?” The queen asked as she grazed the Stryker.

"They're expensive," Ashner admitted. "And this one has military-grade weapons, which also makes it illegal…"

“How did you get your hands on that?” Melissa asked Ashner. “Or all these weapons and gear?”

"I have a friend of sorts." Ashner tilted his head. "He never judged me after I had my falling out with the military, but he's not someone I trust… We both just have an understanding. I help him, and he helps me… Sadly this was the only Stryker he had…"

“So one vehicle that can carry at most fifteen people if they cramp themselves into the inside. As inconvenient as that is, we will have to make do with it.”

"Not if we help," Wilson spoke to the group. "Two demi-bats can carry one person for a distance."

“You’re willing to help us?” Wong raised his eyebrow.

"Of course, none of my people fault you for this kingdom being in the state that it's in… It's the opposite. We want to help you in any way we can… So I suggest letting my strongest demi-bats follow you. And once negotiations are met, then we can carry them here."

The king spread his bat wings behind him.

“I don’t have any objections.” Wong glanced at the group.

“Your kind is hated by most demi’s.” Elana admitted. “Even some of my own loath you… Sadly it’s going to take time for that hate to wither and fade away… You’re making the right decision, Lord Wilson… As you perceived, I only brought two guards because I want you to come with us and help create negotiations.”

“Me?”

"Yes, you're the representative of your race. It's a king's duty."

Wilson laughed. "I've only been king by title. I've never ventured out of the cave, so I can't say I've really performed kingly duties."

“You can start now.” The queen studied Ashner. “Don’t you agree?”

"I do, we need to let all the demi's know that you're not only helping create a new world, but you're also an active voice and decision-maker… Once they see that you're helping create a better world for all demi's. That hate will die out."

The king bowed towards Ashner. “You grace me with your wisdom.”

"Don't thank me yet. Things can still backfire… If that happens, we will try to avoid bloodshed… We run before we kill… Is that understood?"

The group nodded. Wong was the only one not happy with his decision. To him, survival came first.

Once again, Lina was left behind. This time she didn't mind too much.

They loaded up inside the armored vehicle. Gio drove as Caitlin led the group from the sky.

*******

"This is amazing." Wong studied the water stone. He had his own mana pool, so he was able to use it. "Where can we get more of these?"

Elana took a pause. “I can’t say for sure… Maybe in the remains of demi kingdoms… These used to be so common.”

Wilson was able to shift the size of his wings. Making them just about disappear. He mentioned it was a skill all demi-bats possessed. He studied the stone. "This is the first time I've seen this type of artifact. Unfortunately, I don't have a clue where we can find these."

"Maybe the dwarfs and the high elves know," Elana added in a daze. "These stones were mass-produced. And sold off to everyone in the victory era."

"Then we find a way to recreate it." Ashner declared to the group. "If it was done before, then we can do it now…"

“Is that possible?”

“Anything is.”

The truck moved slowly over a tree. The group inside braced themselves.

"Tell me about the demi-bunnies," Wong spoke with his arms crossed.

"Let me think." The queen pulled on her hair. "They all have bunny ears and a bunny tail, obviously. They used to be excellent at growing vegetables and fruits. They're an interesting race since they have an odd lifespan."

“What do you mean by odd?”

"Human children take about twenty years to grow into adulthood, and elves are the same way. But demi-bunnies usually have a litter of at least six children. And they grow five times faster than our kind, so in four years they become full adults. That's when their aging process slows down. And they keep their youth for about two hundred years. Afterward, they start becoming old and ultimately die."

"That would mean they have a substantial population," Wong stated the obvious.

"Yes, they used to. But when the war started, they were the first ones in, and unfortunately, most of them were killed. Demi-bunny slaves are rare. They can also only have children when they deeply desire it… But they're also skittish and lose interest quickly… Usually, when they find out they're pregnant."

The Stryker’s engine revved once Gio found stable ground.

“They were also very violent against their own kind…”

“What did they treasure most?" Ashner asked, but the queen shook her head.

"Unfortunately, I didn't have much of a relationship with them. They don't have a king or queen. Instead, they have tribe leaders. But those leaders were constantly at war with each other. So most races kept their distance, but we did trade with them for food from time to time."

"Then we're at a loss." Wong sighed. "The key to a promising negotiation is to offer them something they want. If they're known for growing vegetables, and they're in a safe place, then we really don't have the upper hand."

“You knew this was never a sure thing.” Ashner lectured. “Regardless, we have to try.”

"Hey, guys!" Gio's voice rang through their headpieces. "We're here… And theirs a labyrinth in front of us."

“Alright, let’s greet these demi’s.”

*******

“Keep your distance.” Ashner handed one of the demi-bats a walkie-talkie and showed him how it worked by pressing the button and speaking into one. That freaked out most of the demi’s. But the specific one he chose stayed resilient and nodded, almost proud that Ashner had chosen him. "Regardless of the result, I will contact you and let you know what's happening. If you hear the echoes of gunfire before I can give you a situation report, then rush in and save your king and elves. We can handle ourselves.”

“No.” The king interrupted. “If you hear a battle, join in. Save the humans first…”

Wilson studied Ashner. "We are allies. I won't let you die."

The king bowed towards Elana. "Forgive my order. I'm aware that you are royalty, but without these three humans, my people will starve. For that alone, I am more than willing to die in their stead.”

“No need for an apology." Elana nodded at her guards. "My elves were given the same order."

The labyrinth was easily twenty feet high and was long enough for the Stryker to pass through. But it was left behind, in case the terrain changed. Five hundred demi-bats hid and prepared for the worst-case scenario.

“This is a maze.” Gio tapped the wall. “Is that why nobody found them?”

“Wilson.” Ashner nudged up.

The king's wing's opened, and he took flight, going straight up. He floated there for a few seconds then came straight down.

“How’s it look?”

“It’s going to take us the better part of five days to walk through all that.” The king admitted.

“Then can I ask you for a favor?” Ashner raised his eyebrow.

*******

The group was dropped off at the exit of the labyrinth, the flight took a few minutes, and all the demi-bats followed and stayed hidden in the labyrinth.

We’re not wasting our time navigating through it. We’ll go over it instead.

When Ashner's feet clinched the ground, he studied it. A few homes were off in the distance, and farmlands were everywhere. More than he imagined. As they ventured deeper, the group took a heavy right formation. They were protecting both the royals.

Ashner took point, Gio and Wong protected their sides. Alex kept rear security.

Then it happened. A young girl popped her head out. On top of it were bunny ears. Ashner lifted his palm up and prepared for the worse.

The bunny girl was cute and wore clean clothes. She gasped.

Good gasp or bad gasp?

The bunny girl was holding a pitchfork, which she was using to farm. She studied the group with curious eyes.

“Visitors?” She tilted her head. “Are you here to trade?”

The group studied each other. That wasn’t something they were expecting.

Ashner stepped forward and lowered his weapon. Taking the risk. “Yes.”

“Then follow me.” She smiled and skipped ahead of the group, urging them to follow her at a quick pace.

The group moved through the town, and one by one, heads with bunny ears were showing themselves. All of them were cute, some were gorgeous, and some were slim, while others were busty. All different shapes and sizes. And all curious.

“What’s going on?” Alex asked.

“We're about to find out. Stay on your guard." Ashner commanded.

After a few minutes and passing dozens of homes, some with laundry drying and others with vegetables growing in their front yards. The group ended up in the center of the city, where demi-bunnies surrounded them. None of them were armed, but they were heavily outnumbered. They had underestimated how many demi's the bunnies had.

“Welcome, travelers." A demi with white ears and a necklace with bright blue and green stones greeted the group. She wore an elaborate dress that showed off her legs even if the air was cold. "We hadn't had someone venture into our domain since before my mother was born."

Ashner studied the bunnies then relaxed. They were no threat.

Ashner sipped on his Camelbak.

“My name is Ashner.”

“You’re a human.” The bunny girl held a strong allure, even the way she walked and moved dripped seduction. “Is the war over?”

“No," Elana answered. "Ashner is our ally, and he's not involved with the humans trying to enslave our kind."

“And a demi-bat.” The bunny glared at Wilson. “The betrayers, your presence sickens me..”

The king bowed his head. “Forgive me.”

“Don’t apologize.” Wong glared. “He had nothing to do with the slave crest. Don’t bare your fangs at him for something he had no say over. It makes you look pathetic.”

“This human has a mouth on him.” The tribe leader paced towards Wong then studied him. “What is your name?”

“Wong, I'm this group's medic."

“A doctor? We have one here, and she's a demi-fox."

“There are more demi’s here?” Elana raised her eyebrow.

“Yes, how else would we have survived?”

“That’s correct. I just made a bad assumption.” The queen pulled her blue hair. “We’re here to negotiate.”

“I'll negotiate…" She glared at Wong. "If he does the negotiations… No one has ever degraded me as he did… Human, why should we help you?"

Wong crossed his arms.

Seriously dude? Don’t blow this for us.

Ashner glared at Wong. The medic grasped the situation he put them in… He was usually so calm, but he lost his nerve when the chief insulted Wilson. He breathed in slowly.

"I won't apologize for what I said. I will apologize for how I said it… You're the chief, so you deserve the respect of one."

“I am the chief, but don’t misinterpret me.” She leaned closer to Wong and scoped her head up towards him since he was about a head taller than her. “Only men that desire death talk down to me.”

“Dude.” Gio broke the tension. “How did you not notice?”

Wong raised one eyebrow, then glanced around, then raised both eyebrows up.

“Elana… you failed to mention one thing…”

“What did I fail to mention?” She debated his remark.

“Where are all the male demi-bunnies?”

A crowd had surrounded them, all demi-bunnies and all women. And all with one desire.

To mate.

"Everyone knows demi-bunnies are female. They mate with other races to continue their line. They can only have females. That's why they were so essential on the battlefield. Not just to increase their numbers but to relieve and relax the soldiers."

“Relax in what way?” Wong asked as the chieftain meddled with his face.

"Sex, of course… Demi-bunnies are known for their harvesting skills, their necessity in war, and their unquenchable sexual desires."

“Oh… So more horn dogs.”

The chief studied Wong. “What do you want from us?”

“We’re creating a kingdom that requires more people and food to survive, or it won't last the winter."

“And what can you offer us?” She glared at Wong. "We've managed to survive on our own. Away from the war and from the monsters the Dead God creates."

Wong sighed. "You need males, considering the number of demi-bunnies that are currently surrounding us, your population has dwindled… And you lack weapons."

Ashner studied the bunnies around them. Only a few had weapons.

"That means you lack the means to gather or create weaponry… Had we been an invasion force, then your people would've been slaughtered or captured…"

The bunny girl smiled. She had a savagery to her. "You're smarter than most humans."

“Intellect is a skill you hone, and it's why our society will succeed… With or without your people."

He's bluffing. We need her people… Wong, don't fuck this up.

The bunny girl circled Wong, taking in every inch of his body. "Our harvests have been dwindling these last couple of years. Some of my people blame the weather, but I know better… It's the Dead God. She's returning."

“She?” Elana raised her eyebrow. “The Dead God is a male.”

"That's not what I've been taught." The woman tilted her head back, bringing up one ear. "But then again… Who can really say… I have an affinity with nature, so I have some incite… As should some of your kin… The soil of our world is decaying, rotting away beneath our very feet… In time all the food will die out… And the Dead God will win… Do you have a solution for that problem?"

"We do." Wong reached into his pocket and picked up some dirt. He fiddled with a seed between his fingers then soothed his power into it. Ensuring the plant got the right amount of hydration, he asked his water to mend with his nature. And in seconds, a small cherry tomato grew in his hands. The demi-bunnies awed at his power. "We have vegetables and fruits that the Dead God can't corrupt… But we need your people to help us grow it… And we have plenty of males. Demi-bats, elves… Your population can grow."

“And humans.” The chieftain debated her options. “My name is Violet, and we’ll help you… If you meet some of our demands.”

“What are your demands?” Ashner asked.

“Protection, weapons, and permission for us to choose whatever male we want.”

"The first two are possible, but we won't force anyone to do anything… Obviously, we don't allow slavery in our community."

“Then I want a single request, one that will determine the future of our relationship.” She studied Wong. “I want him to sire my children.”

“Done.” Ashner smiled.

“WHAT!” Wong’s resolve broke. “I’M NOT A HARLOT!”

"SHUT UP!" Ashner lashed out, once again his jealousy seeping out like melted honey. "You took it upon yourself to challenge Violet, and you will deal with the consequences… Even if they're awesome…"

Wong crossed his arms. “I don’t have to like it.”

“Oh, don’t bullshit me.” Ashner grabbed his shoulder. “If you’re pissed off, let it all out when you’re fucking her.”

Wong smirked. "Alright, I accept your conditions, Violet. But from what I learned about your people, you push away the children from their father and raise them alone… I won't allow it, and if I'm going to give you children, then I want to be in their lives."

Violet shrugged. “The conditions are met. Traveling is going to be difficult for our people.”

“Actually.” Elana paced off with Violet, explaining their predicament in greater detail.

“Will you knock it off with the glare.” Wong sighed at Ashner. “It’s not like I chose to be their stallion.”

Gio chucked. "Dude… You better get that girl off. If you don't, I'm relatively sure she's going to chop your dick off."

"You act as if I've never fornicated." Wong tilted his head up. "I'm a gentleman, so I don't kiss and tell."

“I hate you both.” Ashner mustered his words meekly.

“Will you quit it with your attitude?” Wong tapped Ashner’s head. “Risa is obviously into you… If you’re that desperate to get laid, then ask her…”

“Well… It’s complicated with her…”

"That's what I like to call… An excuse… Ashner, get brave or shut up, cause lashing out isn't like you."

“I’m still sour… I don’t have a son… I just don’t understand why she would mess with me like this…”

“And you’re lashing out in whatever way you can… That explains your attitude shift these last couple of days.”

“I’m sorry.”

Gio bear-hugged Ashner, making him gasp for air. "Nah, you lost something you cared about deeply. No one blames you… Just express yourself better."

"Let go." Ashner wiggled his way out of Gio's clutches. "I feel like I lost a part of myself… And yes, I want to get laid… But I don't want to use pity as an excuse to do it… I may be a virgin, but I'm not a loser…"

“Take all the time you need.” Gio studied the bunny girls, a handful of them were checking them out… But the majority of them were smitten with the elves.

"Wong," Violet called for the medic. She signaled for him to enter her home, and ultimately her bedchamber.

"Go." Ashner sighed, and Wong stepped into the home.

“What now?” Gio asked.

"Now we go after the dwarfs… Let's leave Wong here. We'll pick him up tomorrow."

“Sure.” Gio giggled. “Did you ever wonder how that nerd fucks?”

“I never pictured him as a being that has sex, or even enjoys it… But he does write erotica… So I can’t really say for certain…”

*******

The inside of Violet's home was very spartan, bare with just the necessities. When Wong entered her room, he questioned if this was a good idea.

“Doctor Wong.” She studied her prey. “I’ve given birth to a litter of children three times in my life… But always to the same demi-fox… His body doesn’t compare to yours.”

“Flattery will get you nowhere.” Wong took off his gear and placed his weapon to his side, keeping them neatly together. “I’m here to give you my cum, nothing more, nothing less…”

“Is that how you talk to a chieftain?”

"No, that's how I talk to a woman who belittles others based solely on their race. You judged the demi-bat's king and degraded him… Yet you didn't do it for us humans. I know why…" He took a step towards her, still wearing his cargo pants and top. Violet sensed some type of malice and took a step back, bumping against the corner of her room. Next to her was the bed and a fireplace. "You fear humans."

“I fear no one.” She scoffed.

“They’re currently winning the war, and any of them can enslave you… I don’t blame you for your caution… Even so, I don’t like you… Your personality is beneath me… So the idea of fucking you bothers me.”

The bunny’s rage flared, Violet removed her linen pants and top. They didn't wear underwear. She wasn't shy about it. "Take your clothes off." She ordered.

Wong didn’t want to admit it, but the woman was dreamy. Just in body. He complied and took his shirt off. He hid a slim but toned body. Then his pants came off. Violet pouted. Not because his size displeased her, but because he wasn’t hard.

She walked up towards him and grabbed his dick, hard enough to make him moan in pain. "You're determined to make this as unpleasant as possible."

Wong flared his nostrils. “Yes, I’m only here because you wanted someone new to fuck… Do you expect me to be okay with that?”

“Shut up… You worthless toy…”

Something in Wong snapped. He gripped her throat and slammed her against the wall. "Listen to me, Violet. When we are naked, you do not control me… No one does… I'm sick of your attitude, so you're going to shut up and listen for once…”

Her body squirmed as she tried to fight back until she did something Wong didn’t expect.

She smiled.

“Yes… Degrade me more…”

"Of course, that's what you're into… You're lucky we need your people. Someone like you isn't even worth a second glance… Consider it a blessing that I'm allowing you to look at me…"

She smirked… “Doctor Wong… It seems you’ve gotten hard.” Her free hand started stroking him.

He tossed her on the bed, making her bounce once. “Did I give you permission to touch me?”

“… No…” She shook.

“At least you’re not a liar.” He spread her legs and gripped her throat. “Don’t you dare look at me until I’m done.”

He slid inside her, and immediately Violet started moaning with her tongue out.

“Worthless bitch of a demi… Is this how easy you are?”

“… Yes!”

Wong sensed himself getting harder and even if he didn’t admit it to himself. He was enjoying this situation.

“Insult me again, and next time we'll do this in front of your subjects… Maybe if your people saw you acting like the desperate whore you truly are, it'll put you in your place."

“Forgive me!” She moaned and glanced at Wong. “I promise I’ll be good… Please don’t stop…”

"Did I say you can look at me?" He slapped her face, which earned him a cute yelp, and she tightened around his junk. “Never disobey me again… Or I’ll leave…”

“Please don’t leave…”

"Right now, you're my toy… And I decide if you're worth keeping or if you should be tossed away."

She wrapped her legs around Wong’s waist. Letting him go deeper, her eyes just about rolled back with the pleasure.

“I’m gonna cum!”

“You better not…” Wong warned. “You don’t deserve that pleasure…”

She bit her lip and tried holding it back…

It didn’t work…

She moaned and squirted her juices around Wong’s legs.

Violet fought to catch her breath until she recalled something… Wong had told her not to cum…

She had just disobeyed… Violet took a risk and eyed Wong… And sure enough, he was pissed…

“Worthless bunny bitch…”

Wong grabbed the blanket and wrapped her arms with it. Then pinned her face against the bed and started fucking her from behind.

"Forgive me!" Her voice echoed in her room, but Wong showed her no mercy. He kept that pace the entire night and until early in the morning.

After that day, Violet never once disrespected a demi-bat.

*******

“I think he’s the kind of guy that gets emotional and wants cuddles after sex.” Gio guessed, still concerned with Wong’s safety and a little jealous himself. “Don’t you think?”

“Can we drop that topic?” Ashner focused on the group. Wong was left behind… For obvious reasons and they were heading towards their next destination.

“Well, we're getting close to the Echo cave. What's your plan here?"

"We're going in blind again, Wong was essential with the demi-bunnies, but he also screwed himself… Into a position where he's currently being screwed."

"I thought we were dropping that topic?"

Ashner sighed. “Yeah.” He turned towards Elana, who was exhausted from the traveling.

“Elana?” The queen glanced at Ashner.

“What do we need to know about dwarfs?”

"They were brutes in my time… Savages who enjoyed mead, meat, and metal… Our two races never got along, but we did work together often. They’re easily insulted and quick to anger… So watch your words.”

“I’ll keep that in mind.”

Risa studied Ashner. She was aware of his jealousy towards Wong. In fact, everyone was. But they kept silent since everyone, including Elana, perceived him as the leader of his group.

“Recently, the depression in your soul has increased." Elana surmised but instantly regretted mentioning it. She was tired and spoke her mind.

I’m not surprised… After the crap Iris put me through.

“Something happened in my world…” Ashner cocooned into himself. “I’d rather not talk about it.”

“As you wish." Elana tilted her head up. "Just know, you can talk to Lina or to me about your problems… We are friends…"

"Yes, we are." Ashner forced a smile. Melissa squinted when he did.

"And we arrived," Gio announced to the group as the Stryker came to a stop and the hatch lowered. Cold air filled the inside of the stuffy armored vehicle.

Ashner exited first and kept his weapon ready in case a random monster or animal attacked. The terrain was completely different. Meadows as far as his vision allowed. Caitlin flew down. She glared at Ashner.

“Which way?”

She pointed towards a cave entrance. “Do I have to go with you?”

“Like before, you stay behind… I’m aware you’ll try to get me killed…”

“Humans are all the same…” She kept her menacing glare on Ashner.

“How many have you met before me?”

She raised her eyebrow. “You’re the first I’ve ever met…”

“Your tribe were the first demi-bats I’ve met… Regardless of what your ancestor did… I don’t blame you…”

“NOT THAT IT MATTERS!” She gripped her right shoulder.

The hellbound mark. Menu, can it be removed?

The menu appeared and replied.

Hellbound Curse Removal ------ ERROR, ERR0R, E440R, 49386856deS*87e

That was pointless. Even so…

"Then how about I make you a promise, but in return, you'll let go of your hate."

“What can you provide?” She hissed.

“Other than a better life for you?” She glared at the ground. “I’ll find a way to remove that curse from your shoulder… And not just off of you, off every demi-bat…”

Caitlin stayed silent for a few seconds, as stiff as a stone. “If you can remove it… Then I promise to serve you properly… As a slave…”

"That won't do…" Ashner stepped ahead of her towards the cave's entrance. "I don't need slaves… What I need are loyal friends."

She glanced at everyone as they entered Echo, until she was alone. “As if I could ever be friends with you… Your aura, it’s the same as a soul being devoured by the Dead God… Just what are you?”

*******

“Have you guys ever watched Lord of the Rings?” Gio asked as they ventured into the cave. Ashner and Gio wore their NODs.

“How would that be possible?” Ashner questioned.

"Oh right, lately I've forgotten we're in another world… When something becomes an everyday occurrence, you start to forget it's extraordinary."

"Can you focus? We're in the middle of a mission. Consider this a Key Leader Engagement. Or a KLE…"

Ashner sipped on his drink.

"You got it… By the way, why is this cave called Echo?"

As soon as he asked, his voice boomed across the cave. Rumbling in the distance. "Oh, that's why."

The cave turned into a catacomb of rooms, each abandoned with random oddities like buckets and rusted weapons.

In the distance, voices screamed to one another.

“Every dwarf in this cave now knows we’re here…” Ashner groaned. "Actually, that's an impressive alarm system."

“What is it with demi’s and living underground?” Gio scratched his shoulder. “It just seems unhealthy.”

“Master?” Alex’s voice was heavy with concern. “What do we do?”

Footsteps rushed towards the group. Ashner readied his assault rifle, and Gio readied his SAW. "If things get bad, then everyone retreats… Alex, you're in charge of driving the Stryker. Elana, you're more than qualified to protect my slaves… But under no circumstances, are any of you allowed to die."

The footsteps continued. Hundreds of them. Until they all suddenly stopped.

Where are they?

Footsteps surrounded them, and from all directions, the dwarfs circled them from the empty catacombs.

They're dwarfs… If they specialize in mining… Then I should've planned for them to have a way to surround their intruders… I fucked up.

The tallest of them was about four feet tall, all heavily armored with battle axes and war-hammers. With heavy steel as their battle-armor.

We won’t survive this fight…

"Who goes yonder?" One of them spoke. His voice echoed, and oddly enough, he had a thick accent.

"Weapons down." Ashner gave his order. Gio complied immediately. Alex, Risa, and the elves took a few seconds then they lowered their weapons. They were heavily outmatched.

"Smart move there long legs." The same voice spoke. "Had you attacked, we would've mistaken you for a monster."

The dwarfs made way for the one who spoke. He carried a battleaxe and had a thick red beard, and it was well-groomed.

“What brings you to our domain?” He asked while he lowered his weapon.

"We're searching for people to join our kingdom," Elana spoke. She bowed quickly. "I'm Elana, queen of the wood elves."

“Pointy ears!" He raised his eyebrows. "Your kin are still alive? I'm impressed since your race was always on the softer side."

“And yours was always known as violent, sturdy, and loyal to their allies… And you, you’re the striking image of a Lord I knew… His name was Kabitsu…”

"Ah, that was my grandfather." He raised his hand. "He spoke fondly of the wood elves king… And his daughter, Elana."

All dwarven weapons were lowered. Ashner released a breath he wasn’t aware he was holding.

We got lucky.

"My name is Kabu. I'm the Lord of the dwarfs…" He studied Ashner and Gio. "Is the war over?"

"Far from it." Elana sighed. She was scared. "These two humans are my friends, and without them, the wood elves would've met their end."

"Ah, from what I've heard, the sand elves, ice dwarfs, and demi-panthers were all eradicated…" His eyes focused on Wilson, and his pupils dilated. "A demi-bat?"

“Yes.” Elana raised her hand. “But not the king that doomed us all… Just his ancestor, they’re helping us.”

Kabu studied the group then sighed.

"Follow me… Long has it been since Echo has received guests… As tradition holds, we need to have a feast…"

"We're in a hurry, good Lord." Elana bowed.

“Nonsense… You’re in our home… And you must honor our traditions…”

Traditions?

The group followed the dwarfs, the tension had died down, but they were still on guard.

“So why did you seek us out?” Kabu focused on Ashner and perceived he was leading the group. “Human, what is your name?”

“Ashner… We’re seeking out demi’s to join our kingdom… Your people’s skills are essential for our survival.”

“Living on the outside? It’s a delightful delusion… But against mankind, we don't stand a chance…"

Ashner took a sip of his Camelbak.

The inside of the mine was lived in. Cold, but the air was easy to breathe. Ashner studied the residents. They were all pale, short, and some were slim and lacked muscle.

How much food can they gather this deep inside a cave? But metal is easy to acquire. That’s why they all have weapons.

They were ridiculously short, and their women were no different, minus the beards. Some were plump, and others were slim. But they were all short.

“It’s a legal loli paradise.” Gio snickered.

“Please don’t go there.” Ashner sighed.

“Each man worships their favorite body type… But thick is my religion.”

“Sometimes I question why we’re friends.”

“Because I’m the best you’ll ever find… I don’t think you’ve ever mentioned who your waifu is…”

Ashner sighed and sipped on his Camelbak once more.

The cave widened into a large cavern, with a light running river curving across the cave.

Interesting.

A few homes were scattered near the river, and they had even managed to harvest and grow some type of glowing mushrooms.

Locals eyed the group and even whispered among each other.

Kabu led the group into a section of the cave that was obviously carved into. It had a round table with seats carved from the very stone of the cave.

Kabu sat down first. He whispered to his men, and they paced off to follow his orders.

Elana sat down to his left and Wilson to his right. Even if Kabu didn't mention it, the demi-bat's presence bothered him.

“Elana for the wood elves, Wilson for the demi-bats, who represents humans?”

Gio shoved Ashner forward towards the three sitting on the table.

“I’ll do it.” Ashner sat two seats away from Elana. “I’m not royalty, but I have the power to influence the kingdom we’re creating.”

The rest of the group stayed standing behind their leaders.

"I have one question for you, Ashner. Why stray away from the war your people are winning and instead side with demi's?"

“I’m from another world.”

“That’s preposterous.” The Lord scoffed. “Take this conversation seriously.”

"Lord Kabu." Elana ran her finger against the table. It was a little dusty and obviously hadn't been used in some time. "Ashner speaks the truth, four humans from another world entered ours… Don't degrade his status either… He may not have royal blood, but he has earned his merits."

“What has he done?”

"He saved the wood elves from certain death, brought my people food and medicine, and he's currently purifying the salted land around our kingdom."

The dwarf ruffled his beard.

“He also saved the souls of the last black neku tribe.” Risa interrupted, speaking with her hands clasped against her back. “He insured the Dead God didn’t devour them… Even if I am the last of my kind, he took me in and has given me a purpose to continue living.”

“Has he now?” Kabu evaluated Ashner with curiosity.

"Ashner also took in the demi-bats, even though resentment from other races has kept us in hiding… Now my people will work alongside him, and together we will create a new world." Wilson's voice rumbled with every word. "I also witnessed firsthand how he negotiated with the demi-bunnies. As we speak, my people are transporting them into our kingdom…"

“Ashner, it’s rare for demi’s to praise humans in this age… Very well, what are you proposing?”

"Come with us, help us rebuild the remnants of a kingdom long destroyed." Ashner hadn't digested everything he had done up until now. Alex smiled proudly behind him. "We're going to have crops, plenty of food for the population."

"The soil is tainted. It's tainted everywhere. I can sense it in the earth and stone." Wilson gritted his teeth. "In due time, all vegetation will die out."

"We're using our world's vegetables, believe it or not, the Dead God can't influence them… So the food will be different, but it's edible, and your people will have more variety than just mushrooms…"

“Humm.” The Lord pulled his beard. “Can you provide us meat?”

“Meat? Why meat?”

“It’s a rarity, but it’s delicious… Can you bring animals from your world that we can raise?”

Elana raised her eyebrow. She desired that too.

“It’s possible, chickens, cows, goats, pigs… Animals that don’t exist in your world… It would be relatively easy to bring them here…”

Kabu's lips parted, and he gave a happy cheer. "That is tempting… But I won't risk the lives of my people where humans hunt and capture demi's… It's better to live half a life underground than to be enslaved…"

Ashner grazed his sidearm. "What if I can offer you a new type of weapon… One that doesn't require magic. One that can eradicate a target from a distance, with more accuracy than a bow, and more penetrating damage than a sword."

“You’re speaking about that odd metal you’re carrying.” Kabu was certainly curious. “Show me what it can do.”

He tossed him a metal goblet.

Ashner caught it, then handed it to Risa and quickly gave her instructions.

She dashed deeper into the cave with her power, dropped the cup, and dashed right back. Where she placed it was far away from any dwarfs and crops.

Ashner used the stone chair to brace his weapon, he controlled his breathing, in between his breaths, as he exhaled, and right before he inhaled, that’s when he pulled the trigger of his carbine.

The goblet flew into the sky, and the blast echoed across the cave.

Kabu stood up, marveled with the weapon in Ashner’s hands.

Risa returned, holding the metal goblet. The bullet had gone clean through it.

The Lord of the dwarfs studied it, grazing it even if it was still hot from the impact.

“How is this possible?” He questioned Ashner.

“That was one bullet.” Ashner tossed him a spare round. Kabu studied it, in awe at how small it was.

“Swords, bows, axes… My world, at one time, waged wars with them… But they became absolute," He held his weapon up, so everyone studied it. "This is my world's modern weapon… And a piece of technology your world doesn't have… Imagine if every one of your people held one of these… Even if a legion of human slavers rushed you at full speed. One bullet can go through multiple targets… Imagine what hundreds can do at once… Thousands… This is the protection I offer you… Will you join us?”

The echo had inadvertently brought more attention towards the group.

Kabu smirked. "Why not? We're all going to die one day… I'd rather die under the sun than rot away inside a cave… The red-beard tribe will join you… And your kingdom… What is your kingdom’s name?"

Ashner raised his eyebrow. He glanced at Elana, who simply shrugged.

“We should give it a name.” Ashner slung his weapon around his shoulder.

"Not we." The elven queen leaned back on her stone seat. "You… Ashner, out of all of us here. You've just about single-handedly gave us all a new home… Naming it should fall to you…"

“… I don’t know…”

"I'll name it." Gio interrupted with a huge smile. "How about Steins Oppai… Deus Ex Machina?"

Everyone gave Gio a conflicted glance. He just returned a smile.

"On second thought, I will name it." Ashner sighed. "It's a place where the lost can be found… A second chance away from war and slavery… A haven… Sanctuary… Let’s call the kingdom Sanctuary.”

Gio pouted and mumbled something along the lines of. “We could’ve just called it Oppai.”

“Then the red-beards shall join Sanctuary." Kabu smiled and called for his servants to grab something for the group.

That’s two more groups… This was easier than I expected… But people are desperate, so I shouldn’t be surprised they want a change.

Ashner sipped on his Camelbak, savoring its flavor.

“Last but certainly not least…” Kabu’s servants dropped a barrel on top of the table. “We must uphold our traditions… So choose your warriors…”

I spoke too soon… He wants us to fight? But why?

“Is this necessary?” Ashner asked while he fiddled with the table. “We came to an arrangement.”

"Traditions must always be upheld… If you refuse, then we won't join Sanctuary."

Fuck.

“What is your tradition? I don’t want bloodshed…”

“Blood?” Kabu raised his eyebrow. “We’re not savages… We just need to discuss our conditions again… But this time.”

His servant opened the barrel, and the aroma of mead filled the air.

"We do it while we're drunk… So choose your best warriors… It takes courage to take on a dwarf!"

Oh, thank God.

Drinks were handed to the entire group. Kabu raised his glass first. “To the future!”

“To the future!” The group echoed.

Ashner sipped on the drink.

This isn’t half bad.

"Dwarven mead." Wilson savored the drink. "I only heard rumors of its flavor… It's an honor to taste it."

Elana exhaled slowly, and Risa struggled to drink hers.

“Down it quickly!” Kabu ordered.

Everyone obeyed and drank at a faster pace. Alex ended up coughing, which earned him some laughter from the group.

Then came the second cup.

And the third.

Wilson’s face fell limp on the table. He slid off his chair and landed on his side.

“The first warrior has fallen!” Kabu exclaimed.

Lightweight.

Ashner sipped on his Camelbak while Risa sat next to him.

Without the sun, nobody grasped how much time passed, but they enjoyed themselves.

Elana fell asleep with her head on the table and her two guards with their backs against each other.

“Elves have no tolerance.” Kabu slurred his words then focused on Ashner. “Does your world have alcohol?”

Ashner stood up. As he did, the world spun a little.

I’m feeling it.

He made his way towards Kabu and grabbed the rubber hose. Squeezing its head, he pressed his hand against the bladder. Dark liquid poured into the dwarf's cup.

Gio raised his eyebrow.

“What is this?” He lifted his cup and whiffed it.

“It’s called Hennessy. Consider it one of many options of alcohol my world has.”

Kabu took a sip and smiled. “That’s delightful!”

Gio’s hands became fists. He marched towards Ashner and guided him away from the party.

“What are you doing? You’re drinking mid-mission?” Gio bit his lip. “That’s why you made a bad call earlier when we entered the cave. Ashner you’re not combat effective if you’re drunk.”

"Lay off." Ashner shrugged Gio's hand away from him. When he did, Risa, Melissa, and Alex got closer to them. "We're not in the military anymore… I don't have to follow the rules."

“Ashner… We’re still in a dangerous place… I need you to keep your mind sharp.”

Ashner pouted.

“Is this because of Iris?”

“Yes… You don’t understand what it’s like to care for something so deeply… And suddenly it’s stolen…”

Gio stayed silent. Ashner was right. He didn't understand.

"I do," Melissa spoke up, timidly glancing away from the two.

Damn it… I’m being an ass…

Gio studied them both, then used his left arm to grab Melissa and his right to grab Ashner. He hugged them both tightly, but with his strength, the two gasped for air.

As soon as he released them, they both inhaled deeply.

"I'm so sorry… I wasn't there when you needed me, Ashner… And I wasn't there to save you, Melissa." Gio exhaled. He was holding his liquor better than everyone. Even better than the dwarfs. “Wong respected your decision to stay away, but had I been awake, I would've found you… Even if you didn't want to see me… I'm not Wong. I don't use my head like he does. Instead, I let my heart steer my life… I lost my dad… And then I lost two years of my life… But I refuse to lose either of you… You’re my family…”

“What about me?” Alex asked meekly, with Risa next to him.

Ashner walked towards them. Both of them became stiff, then his arms wrapped around both of them. He brought them closer and held them against his chest. He had taken his armor off, Risa's face dug into his chest. Alex giggled when he hugged him.

“You two… And Lina… Consider yourselves part of my family…”

"So you can be a nice guy," Melissa added.

“Shut up…”

Alex broke away, but Risa clung on a few seconds longer. She glanced up. "I want to hug you like this more… But I know you hate hugs."

“… Just let me know when you want a hug… I’ll allow it from time to time…”

Risa smiled and nudged her head on his chest, purring.

Why can I only express my true feelings when I’m drunk? I’m pathetic.

"I've had enough to drink…" Ashner spoke to the dwarf that had brought them alcohol. "Where can we sleep?"

The short dwarf paced ahead of the group and showed them to their rooms. As Ashner expected, it was just a blanket over a stone foundation. At least the stone was swept and not covered in dust.

Ashner lay on top of it, with his body warm from the alcohol. Then Risa lay to his left and Melissa to his right.

“What are you two doing?”

“Master.” Risa dug her head on Ashner’s rib. “Can I stay with you tonight?”

She’s drunk.

"That's a bad idea. I'm drunk, and if you’re sleeping next to me… Something might happen.”

Risa smirked proudly. "Any order you give me… I will follow." She cuddled him tightly then glared at Melissa, who was enjoying the show.

“I won’t lose to you.” Risa declared to the blonde.

Lose what?

Melissa leaned over Ashner and got face to face with Risa. The demi-cat stood her ground. "Risa… This shouldn't be a competition…"

Melissa jerked forward, grabbing Risa's chin and forcing a kiss right on top of Ashner.

To Ashner's surprise, Risa submitted and let Melissa have her way… After the kiss, Melissa pulled back slowly, leaving a spit line connecting both their tongues.

That was sexy.

Risa's body grew hot, and her lower parts became wetter.

She glared at Melissa, who had dominated Risa so easily. "If you need more proof." Melissa leaned back and pointed at Ashner’s pants. To his left side, his erection was clearly visible.

THAT BRAT!

Risa shook. She studied Ashner and Risa. Conflicted with the development that unfolded, and confused with her body and why she was so turned on. "I… I…" She used her power and in a second vanished out of the room.

Melissa laughed loudly. "She only acts tough. That girl needs to be told what to do…"

“That was cruel.”

“Was it?” She straddled Ashner and rubbed his dick over his pants. “Then this is cruel too?”

“You can dominate her… But if you try that with me… You won’t be in control for long…”

She smiled. “Then put me in my place.” Melissa forced a kiss.

An odd aftertaste, from the sweet saliva of two women, that mixed with the bitterness of alcohol.

Ashner’s heart raced, and he sensed his lower half tingling while she caressed him, then his mind returned to a day he despised. The day he failed her. As she helped herself to his lips, Ashner’s heart sank into his stomach.

He pushed her away.

“I’m sorry… I can’t… Not after what happened…”

“Ashner…” Melissa’s eyes saddened… “How was that my fault?”

“It wasn’t… I’m sorry…”

Melissa breathed in and out slowly. Teardrops were forming in her eyes. Even drunk, she had never had a man deny her. A different type of pain inflicted her. "You're an idiot…" She stood up, still drunk, and stumbled out of the room.

Yes… I am…

*******

The following day neither Risa nor Melissa mentioned a word of what happened. But they did keep their distance from Ashner.

The drive back was filled with silence due to the fact they were all hungover or hurt. But in time, they returned to Sanctuary.

Ashner returned to removing the salt from the earth, and demi-bunnies soothed their power into the seeds helping them grow quickly.

Dwarfs started cutting down trees and restoring the closest homes from the castle. Demi-bats served as the eyes for the kingdom. They were stalking human settlements, monsters, and even wild animals.

After a week, Ashner found himself in a room inside the castle. It overlooked the kingdom that had slowly but surely started developing. Elana had given him the room as a way to represent his status.

The room had a balcony. Ashner had brought a few things from his world here. Patio chairs and a table, he typed on his computer and had several spare laptop batteries. It was getting dark, so the only light came from his computer and an oil-lit lamp.

He glanced into the sky. Billions of stars illuminated it.

You never see that in my world.

“They got a lot done in a week.” Melissa helped herself into his room which annoyed the soldier.

“Don’t you knock?”

“Peace treaty?” Melissa offered him some chocolates that she had snuck into the world. Ashner complied and ate one.

“The pressure to survive has settled down… This kingdom is officially self-sufficient.”

Ashner smiled.

“Oh wow…” Melissa leaned closer to him. “Are you actually smiling?”

Ashner frisked his lips.

I am.

“I’ve seen your fake smiles but that one…” She smiled right back. “I love it.”

“… Is it wrong if I’m a little proud of myself?” Ashner asked.

“Not at all…” She stood up and skipped towards the door. “Leave your door unlocked… I have more delicious delicacies for you.”

"Alright." Ashner returned to his laptop as Melissa left. He was reviewing the last of his reports. He sighed. "This is turning into a lot more work than I hoped for… And the gold is due in a few days…"

Ashner changed into his sleepwear. Just a top and pajama pants. He drank some water and let himself fall on top of his massive bed.

Another item he brought from his world. He glanced at a mirror and focused his view on himself. His hair was well-trimmed, and he kept himself clean-shaven. But there was more. A light emerged from his eyes.

The door opened.

"You took your time." Ashner turned his head to find Lina, Melissa, and Risa entering his room.

They were each in their pajamas, but one glance was enough to grasp that they wore underwear underneath it.

“What are you plotting, Melissa?” Ashner wasn’t in the mood for the blonde’s pranks. He was just about ready for bed.

“Well, the three of us found ourselves in a dilemma… You just happen to be a thief. And stole the same thing from all of us.”

What is she babbling on about?

“One after another,” she continued. “The three of us had our own little competitions between each other. But you didn’t take the bait for any of us. So we decided to stop fighting each other… And just embrace what we have… Together.”

Ashner raised his eyebrow.

Are they suggesting what I think they’re suggesting?

“You don’t have to date any of us if you don’t want to… And if you hate what happens tonight, then we never have to do it again… But we want you… We all want you…”

This is what I always wanted…This better not be a prank.

Lina was anxious and excited while Risa trembled.

The three girls grabbed Ashner's shirt and pulled it off him. His body was hard, and his muscles popped. The two demi's pampered his abs, and Melissa undid his pants.

"Master." Risa was shaking. Ashner put his hand on her shoulder. At that second, her trembles stopped. Her eyes gazed deep into his. They were catlike, and her body was the smallest of the three. She started purring and rubbed her head against Ashner's arm.

Luna kissed Ashner’s shoulder, then started going up towards his neck.

Melissa pulled Ashner's pants down. He was hard. With three women pampering him, who wouldn't be?

Lina was the first to take her shirt off. She wore a bright green bra, and her robust chest stood out. Ashner had sighted her naked several times, but this was the first time she undressed with the sole purpose of exciting him. Her seductive eyes peered into his.

Lina then took her pajama pants off. Her panties were the same color as her bra, with little black bows knotted to her hips. Something not practical for sleeping in.

His heart started racing.

"Touch me." She grabbed Ashner's hand and slid it under her panties. His fingers grasped that she didn't have any hairs as he found his way... And another thing… She was wet.

Ashner's finger grazed the tip of her pussy. Lina moaned softly. Her body glided down on his hand. She was begging for him to do more.

He did.

Ashner's middle finger went inside her, as he did, Lina's moans became a little louder.

"Me too." A meek voice spoke. Ashner's head tilted down and to his right.

Risa pressed her body against him. Her eyes were submissive, but she didn't have the courage to act on her own. The girl needed her master to lead.

Ashner leaned down and kissed her lips. Once he did, she rubbed against him harder, humping her pussy against his leg. When he did, Lina moaned louder.

"I thought I would be jealous," Lina admitted as she grabbed Ashner's hand and pressed it deeper into her pussy. Then his other hand grabbed her chest, squeezing her tightly. She was soft, and his fingers just about melted against her skin. "But watching you with another woman… It makes me want you more."

Melissa removed Ashner's pants and leaned over him, letting some of her saliva drip on his dick. The heat made him twitch. Satisfied, she started stroking him. The blonde was getting wet with so many beautiful girls moaning around her… And of course, Ashner, to Melissa, was a king receiving his righteous reward.

Lina studied Ashner as his gaze went away from hers and down towards Melissa, who smiled happily as she jerked him off faster. And then Risa, who kept kissing his neck, then his lips. He had his full attention on other women. That annoyed Lina. She sensed herself getting angry, then her lust skyrocketed.

He was a man who only viewed her as an option among many. It's not that he didn't care. He was just too popular… Throughout Lina's life, men flocked towards her, begging for her hand in marriage or for her attention. Ashner never did… She hated and loved it. Her body wrenched with his fingers, her nipples became hard. The ecstasy was too much. It was building up inside her body like an inferno that just got relished by fresh oxygen.

She came loudly.

Ashner's fingers were drenched in her juices, along with her panties. She fell side first on the bed, breathing heavily. Her body was trying desperately to recover. A moment of weakness that Melissa took full advantage of.

"These have to come off." Melissa used her free hand and took Lina's panties off. This made the elf blush. Lina's legs were still shaking, so the blonde got a great view. "Your pussy is cute."

“What are you saying?” Lina fought her words while she tried catching her breath.

"I'm saying… That I want a taste." Melissa spread Lina's legs and took a nice long lick. The elf moaned loudly.

Lina had just been side-swiped with more pleasure. Sadly, Melissa had to let go of Ashner. Not that he minded.

“Melissa…” The elf’s eyes widened as the blonde expertly licked and sucked her lower lips. Lina tried fighting back at first but instead held Melissa’s head against her pussy. Ashner and Risa sat down on the bed and tracked every movement Lina gave. Risa studied Ashner’s dick as it got bigger with the show the two girls were putting on. “If you keep that up… I’m gonna…”

Ashner didn't fight his desires. He bent down and kissed Lina's lips, a long and spontaneous kiss. While he did, her body gave out, and she moaned loudly in his mouth, and she came again.

Melissa’s face got wet, she was in the splash zone, and she smiled at her success.

Lina was at a loss for words. In her long life, she had never orgasmed that hard. She grabbed Ashner's hand. "Master… My body… I've never felt so alive…"

Melissa licked her lips and wiped her face on the bed's covers. "You taste delicious…" Next, she pinned Lina, holding her arms against the bed, and started making out with her. She wasn't anywhere near done with the elf yet. As she did, Risa found her courage and squeezed Ashner’s dick. Giving him a trembling hand-job.

"I've never done this before… Let me know if I'm doing it wrong…" Risa admitted with a nervous tone. Her fingers shivered, but she kept trying her best.

Melissa lifted her body off the moaning elf. Then her head tilted towards Risa with a smirk. Risa's ears shot up then down quickly.

"Lina got the first orgasm…" Risa tried to fight back, but Melissa grabbed her shirt and pulled it off.

Ashner quickly pulled her pajama pants off, leaving Risa in just her underwear. Black and red velvet lace with white designs that were stitched on to resemble a kitten's face. Risa's face burned red, and she tried covering herself with her hands. It didn't do her any justice.

"Master…" Risa sought guidance from Ashner. With an extra-long inhale, she found her courage… "Tell me what to do…"

“Strip.”

The order made Risa shake, but she undid her bra hooks and slowly pulled her panties off. She had shaved. That was more than likely Melissa's suggestion.

"What now… Master?" She didn't leer at Ashner. The embarrassment was eating her up. "This time… Make me yours…"

Ashner pushed her on the bed then he got on top of her and studied her in detail. Risa was breathtaking, a beauty beyond measure, the kind of woman pop idol groups or movies hire. She was blushing and had no idea where to stare. She’s the kind of woman Ashner only dreamed of being with.

Melissa positioned herself to Risa's left while Lina was still recovering on the opposite side. Melissa held Ashner's hand. Gasping for air, Lina grabbed his other hand. All the while, Risa prepared for Ashner's rod.

“Do it, Master.” Lina smiled.

"Don't bitch out," Melissa warned as she tightened her grip.

“Please…” Risa murmured as her legs shook. “Dominate me…”

This is better than porn. I can’t believe this is how I lose my virginity.

Ashner slid his dick inside Risa, who moaned louder than Lina had. Both the girls squeezed his hands as he went in, so he almost missed out on an interesting development… Risa's moan.

“Nyyaa!”

That’s hot… And she’s so tight… She’s squeezing my dick so tightly.

Ashner pulled back slowly then he lunged forward. As he did, Risa and the bed shook. Thrust after thrust, the beat of smacking echoed, and the aroma of sex filled the room.

“Nyyyya! Master!” Risa moaned and squirmed. “Master! Nyyyah! Master!”

Ashner reviewed his dick, he didn't have a condom on, but Risa hadn't bled. Then again, not all girls do their first time.

"Kiss me," Risa begged with watery eyes.

Ashner complied and smooched her. That was the spark she needed. Mid-kiss, her body spasmed. Ashner gauged that her juices squirted and splashed around his thighs, he tried to keep going, but she pushed him back and out of her.

“Master, my body can’t!”

She fell limp after Ashner had pulled out of her.

"You two are incredibly sensitive." Melissa teased with a bratty tone. The two demi's glared at her. One realization hit them both as they recovered from their orgasms. Melissa was still fully dressed. Both the girls glanced at each other and nodded.

Melissa was caught off guard as Risa grabbed her wrist and pulled her between the two demi’s.

“What are you doing?” Melissa squirmed as Risa pulled down her pants and Lina took her shirt off. “Stop it…”

I could help her… But she kind of deserves that…

Ashner studied Melissa, from her bright red underwear to her body that was filled with healed bite marks. A sight he wasn’t expecting.

Melissa glanced away.

“You don’t have to touch me… After all… I’m tainted…”

Risa glared at her and bit her stomach, biting over a healed scar. Lina did the same. Melissa giggled. “What are you two doing?”

“If you’re tainted… Then we will cleanse you.”

Lina smirked deviously at Melissa. She was going to get back at her. Lina's thin fingers came down and slid inside Melissa's pussy.

The human girl moaned. She had gone too far, and both the demi's were getting their revenge.

The scene only made Ashner harder.

Risa started sucking Melissa's boobs, and Lina asked a question. "Is this part of you tainted too?" She slipped another finger into her pussy, making Melissa gasp.

"Yes." She tried fighting, but her strength had faded with the pleasure.

“That’s a place only Ashner can cleanse properly.” Lina kissed Ashner’s lips and gave a request. “Fuck her… Make her forget her scars.”

Ashner smirked, gripped her calves, and spread her legs. Melissa panicked. "You don't have to… I don't deserve you."

Risa pinned her shoulder’s down against the bed and sucked harder on her breasts. Lina held her stomach and used her free hand to spread Melissa’s pussy, inviting Ashner.

His dick and legs had Risa's juices flowing down them. Melissa loved that fact. She wanted to be fucked, desperate for their juices to mix inside her. Even if her body and mind were afraid, her body reacted, and her heart raced with anticipation.

Ashner drilled inside her slowly. The moment he did, Melissa moaned, and she arched back.

"Ah! Yes! I wanted you so badly!" Melissa moaned. Ashner moved slowly, unsure of what she wanted until she asked for something. "Harder!"

Ashner complied and fucked her hard, fast, and deep.

Both Risa and Lina observed the two. Their bodies got instantly wetter. Observing him fuck her so fast, so violently, and tuning in to her moans made them both jealous. They needed to join in somehow, so they each sucked on Melissa's chest.

Their mouths sparked electricity across Melissa's body, she desired orgies, and she was around people she trusted and loved. She no longer feared this. She was free, she was happy, and she was in a paradise of passion.

“I’m gonna cum!” She screamed.

"Me too," Ashner admitted. Melissa wasn't as tight as Risa, but her body sucked him in, tightening when he slid in and out.

"Cum with me, Ashner!"

“I can’t stop!”

The two came together, their juices mixed inside the blonde's body. As they did, Melissa grabbed Ashner and kissed him. A long and deep kiss as she kept squirting.

Ashner pulled out, and his cum dripped out of her, going around her leg. Lina wasn't going to let this chance for revenge pass. She grabbed Melissa's thigh and forced her to open her legs, immediately eating her out, savoring Ashner, Melissa, and Risa.

At this point, Melissa just took the pleasure. Ashner was breathing heavily, but he was still hard. Melissa was enduring the pleasure so much she wasn't able to moan.

He was only able to shoot out two, maybe three more loads.

“Master.” Risa sniffed Ashner’s dick then licked it.

Ashner twitched. He had just fired off a round, so he was too sensitive. That didn't stop Risa. She sloppily licked his dick up and down. Which made Ashner moan. Risa stopped and licked her lips. "What a weird taste."

“Ladies.” Lina removed her bra, showing off her large girls. “Let me show you something only I can do.”

Lina pushed Ashner on his back, and the elf slid his wet dick between her breasts. Ashner didn’t need to be told what to do.

She's so soft. Gosh, this feels amazing…

Lina smirked as soon as she caught his reaction. So she started licking the tip of his dick, which only made him moan. Then she sucked on it while it was between her breasts, using them to massage his shaft.

"Slow down," Ashner warned, but Lina disobeyed and went faster. Making Ashner twitch. "I'm gonna cum again!"

Lina kept going until he did. His cum shot around her face and breasts.

Ashner's cock pulsed, and he found himself breathing heavily.

That’s twice…

“Master.” Lina teased with a smile. “Your cum is so thick… And sticky…”

Melissa didn’t skip a beat. She pinned Lina against the bed and started licking up Ashner’s cum off of her. Sucking on her nipples and neck.

Risa pouted.

"What's… Wrong… Risa?" Ashner asked as he caught his breath.

“I wanted to make you cum.”

Is she upset over that? How cute.

Risa helped Melissa and started licking the cum off Lina’s chest.

Twice so far… I’m in heaven… A real harem, one that’s mine and mine alone… I never pictured it would be this exhausting pleasuring multiple women at once… But it’s still AWESOME!

Lina moaned as the two girls sucked and got what they wanted.

“Master?” Lina crawled towards Ashner on her knees… “I’m the only one you haven’t fucked…”

She mounted Ashner, which immediately got him harder. Melissa slid under Lina and started sucking on Ashner's balls. He was still on his back with his legs dangling off the bed. This gave Melissa the perfect angle.

Lina grabbed his dick and slowly let her pussy slide into him. As she did, she moaned. Out of the three girls, her voice was the most mature and erotic.

Lina is easily the wettest girl, and she slides in and out so smoothly… Fuck, even their pussies are all different…

Lina bounced up and down on Ashner’s dick, her tits shaking with her. She was a sight to behold. Melissa kept sucking his balls, making the sensation all the more overwhelming.

"Risa." Ashner addressed his slave. Her ears shot up. Whatever order he gave, she wanted to obey, in fact, she was desperate for it.

“Face Lina and sit on my face…”

“Wouldn’t that hurt, Master?”

She's so innocent. It's time I change that a little.

“No, the way you licked me… I want to lick you too.”

Risa's face became red like a tomato. "As you command." She mounted his face. Ashner smirked as he caught that her tail draped around his head. That was until he licked her pussy.

"Nyyah! Master! What is this!" Her tail shot straight up, and she tried pulling away. Ashner held her legs and savored her juices. “Master! Master! Master!”

Ashner's hands squeezed Lina's large breasts as she grinded against him. Lina moaned and grabbed Risa's hands, bringing her close to kiss her lips. Lina tightened against Ashner's dick. As soon as they did, Risa's hips shook wildly. Ashner's balls twitched in Melissa's mouth.

And the three came.

Risa squirted on Ashner's face, and Lina and Ashner's liquids mixed and rolled down his dick. Melissa's mouth opened, and she smiled when she witnessed it happen. Then, she eagerly licked it up. Making Ashner moan, she was gentle with him and just took what she wanted.

That makes three times. Oh shit, I think I’m done.

The girls were all out of breath. The four had become one.

“Here.” Melissa handed Ashner an energy drink. “You have good stamina.”

Ashner gobbled it up, even if he wasn’t very fond of them.

Risa cuddled Ashner while she played with his dick, now a little more confident in herself. Lina played with Ashner’s chest, rubbing her fingers against his muscles.

"Have you been purified?" Risa asked Melissa, who giggled.

“Yes.” She smiled.

“Not every part of you.” Lina interrupted… “There’s one place Ashner hasn’t cleansed, one hole…”

“He doesn’t have to go that far…” Something about her voice was distant.

Yes, I do.

“Lina, pin Melissa’s head to the bed and lift her ass up.”

The elf smirked and did just that. Melissa tried wiggling out of her position, but Risa didn't allow it.

“Wait… We can do that another time.”

"No, we can't… I will take all your pain, fear, and scars away… I'll do it for every one of you… Now and forever."

Ashner's dick was still wet. The sight of the two girls dominating Melissa on his orders got him hard… He wasn't going to leave any part of these girls unsatisfied. Physically or emotionally.

Melissa moaned louder than before as he went in anal.

The forbidden chocolate star.

Melissa's hands gripped the bed covers tightly, and she endured it, her ass slapped against him, and she lifted her upper body up…

Lina loved dominating Melissa. The two had developed a game. Since they both loved dominating and being dominated, Risa was another story. When Lina dominated Melissa, she caught her own body heating up… She needed to pleasure herself… Her eyes found Risa… An easy target…

The elf pinned Risa, catching her off guard. Her breasts pressed against the demi-cat. In seconds Lina had gotten full control. Her body burned hotter.

Ashner kept thrusting, going hard and deep, Melissa's arms faltered, and her face fell forward on the bed covers. Next to him, Lina ate out Risa. The cat-girl squirmed and moaned.

Unaware of it himself, Melissa fell forward until her free hand reached for her pussy. Her mind went blank with Risa's moans until they both climaxed.

Ashner pulled out and took a moment to relax.

I’m not ordering them to fuck each other, yet they’re still doing it… These girls are amazing…

"You're so mean!" Risa studied Lina, who was out of breath. "Master!"

Ashner glanced at the two girls. Risa jumped Ashner, grabbed his already numb dick. She stroked him gently, ensuring he stayed hard. The sensation made him clinch his abs. She made him grab her ass then jumped on. Taking full advantage of her small structure, Ashner was able to hold her easily.

Then she let his dick slide inside her.

Oh damn, my dick can’t handle this anymore… How is it possible that she’s this tight?

“Hang on to my waist tightly.” She half-heartedly asked.

It’s rare for her to ask for something.

Ashner held her tightly. He was on his knees but still on top of the bed. Holding her light body was easy.

Risa inhaled then used her power, her ridiculous speed. Just to thrust up and down.

WHAT THE FUCK! THAT’S TOO GOOD!

Both Melissa and Lina came down to the bottom of the bed. They both observed closely, in awe of how Risa chose to use her power.

“Master!" Risa stopped and clung to Ashner as she climaxed. Ashner came as well. Ashner pulled out and jizzed, right on Melissa and Lina's face and chest.

Both the girls stayed silent for a while then started giggling.

Four times in one day, I haven’t done that since I was a teenager… No more…

Ashner fell back with Risa in his arms.

She's tiny, but she's also fit… Maybe she's so tight because she's the fittest of all the girls… I can't say for sure…

The girls cleaned each other up and even kissed each other happily except for Risa, who was content just being held.

“I’m happy.” Risa cuddled Ashner with a shy smile.

Melissa studied the two and Ashner’s cock that had finally gotten soft.

"How do you feel? Lina?" Ashner asked as the elf put her head on his lap. She was still on the floor but pressed her chest against the bed.

“I discovered something about myself… I like when you fuck other girls in front of me… Does that make me weird?”

Is she into reject play? That's hot.

“No… I actually love that.”

Lina smiled and put her head on the edge of the bed. She was exhausted, and her pussy was sore.

“Melissa?” The blonde was next to Lina.

“We should do this every chance we get.” She giggled. “That’s if Ashner can handle the three of us at once.”

"My master can handle anything," Risa replied a little childish-like, then kissed Ashner's cheek.

She’s hugging me… But it’s not bothering me… What changed?

“You better.” Lina teased with a wink.

"Then we won't argue over Ashner anymore… As for me." Melissa licked Ashner's soft cock, bringing a shock across his body, his dick was already raw, and she wanted more? "I'll help myself."

Do they want to make me cum five times?

Lina and Risa joined the blonde, and together the three sucked off Ashner. Sharing and kissing one another.

This relationship is different than I imagined… Before, it was all about me… But these girls are also very attracted to each other… I think that'll make this more smoother… Maybe I was the only reason they hadn't started dating… Because they all like me…

Melissa gobbled up the whole thing and deep-throated it, impressing both Lina and Risa.

I never pictured my life would end up this way… Is it alright if I fall in love with them? Do I deserve it? … Yes, I do… I'm tired of beating myself up… I should just let myself be happy.

Risa tried mimicking Melissa but only ended up gagging. Lina giggled then took her turn.

Maybe just maybe…

Melissa sucked on his head, Lina licked his shaft, and Risa sucked on his balls until his body readied itself for another explosion.

Dare I admit it?

Ashner came, and the three girls opened wide.

Maybe I’m not that much of a loser, after all.