{[The best peace and happiness is the one you create for yourself, within yourself.]}

Ashner grazed his jaw, it was still a little sore, and his black eye was just about healed. A few weeks had passed since Ensley attacked them. Despite that, the group was living their lives like nothing happened.

Gio had left the city. He ventured deeper into the United States to buy cattle.

Wong did the same, but he went out to buy seeds.

Ashner focused on water, food, clothes, even building materials. Even going as far as renting a forklift and a large truck that carried wood, sheet-rock, metal, and concrete.

“Wong just arrived." Lina entered Ashner's room. She wore a thick jacket and a gray beanie that covered her cat ears. On her hip, she carried a new sword. This one was back and brown. Even if she carried it, deep down, she missed her first one. "Ashner, we're ready to return to our world once you give the order."

“Why do we keep calling it 'the other world?'" Gio entered Ashner's room, and he stretched his arms and smiled.

“That's because that world doesn't have a name," Wong admitted as he fiddled with a medical machine he was planning to bring with him. "The demi's are not aware of what a planet is. They do name their continents and oceans."

“Then we should name it.” Gio smiled. “How about Namek?”

“This isn’t a planet filled with little green men.”

“Oh, so you have watched it.” Gio wrapped his arm around Wong.

Wong pouted. “Let them name their own planet.”

“We have the opportunity to name an entire planet, and you're passing it off?"

“Yeah.” Wong guided the machine towards the garage. “It’s their world.”

“Suit yourself.” Gio pouted then helped his friend.

“Twenty-five cattle trucks, fifteen seed trucks, twelve materials and supply trucks, and three miscellaneous trucks.” Melissa held a clipboard. She was keeping their items organized. This was her first time back on Earth since she had hidden herself away. “This is overkill.”

“Far from it.” Wong shook his head. “This will only last for a few weeks.”

“It took a long time to gather all these things.” Melissa raised her eyebrows. “Can we keep bringing animals into their world like this?”

“Yes, I made an arrangement with some of the farmers. We're even paying them fifteen percent more." Wong studied the trucks. They were lined up, ready to enter the world. "But I do agree, and we need more people working from our side. But then again… It's too risky."

“Why not bring demi’s from our world here?” Alex asked as he petted a sheep’s head. “They’ll work for us.”

“Which ones can we trust?" Wong crossed his arms. "You, Lina, and Risa are the exceptions. But who's to say they won't cheat us or even run away into our world? The fewer people we have on this side, the better."

“Then Ashner can just order them not to do anything wrong."

“That will require making more slaves.” Ashner arrived, carrying a box of clothes. “I don’t need more slaves.”

“It’s our best option regardless.” Wong sighed. “We need the help.”

“Then we ask the leaders of each race to give us one or two helpers. I’m done making slaves… And it’ll waste more XP…”

“It's not like you're spending it on yourself." Wong studied the straps holding the wooden two-by-fours. "You just store it up and spend it randomly… Usually on others…"

“What’s wrong with that?” Ashner put the box behind one of the trucks. “Spending recklessly is stupid.”

“What's stupider is not using it at all… Had you been improving yourself, that situation with Ensley might've played out differently."

Ashner gritted his teeth. “You’re right… I should use my power to improve myself… I have to bring more people here, that’ll make our workload easier… Or would you rather I spend those points on myself?”

“Spend your SP. Save your XP on us cause I, for one, am tired of working fifteen hours a day nonstop.”

Ashner studied the group. Sure enough, they were all exhausted.

“Alright." Ashner complied. "My mana has increased, so I can use this power more effectively. Menu, show me the Offensive, Defensive, and Specialization menus.”

Offense.

Instant Matter Manipulation 10:SP – Restore Mana Quicker 10:SP – Rock Bullet 10:SP – Earth Spikes 10:SP – Earth Wave 10:SP – Create Rock Golem 10:SP – Create Steel Golem 10:SP – Long Distance Earth Manipulation 10:SP – Long Distance Metal Manipulation 10:SP – Anti-Matter Blast 10:SP

Defense.

Earth Defense 10:SP – Restore Mana Quicker 10:SP – Rock Skin 10:SP – Rock Armor 10:SP – Earth Wall 10:SP – Steel Wall 10:SP – Dust-Storm 10:SP – Earthquake 10:SP – Earth Prison 10:SP – Anti-Matter Skin 10:SP

Specialization.

Mix Matter 10:SP – Combine Metal 10:SP – Redistribute Matter 10:SP – Create Matter 10:SP – Create Stable Anti-Matter 10:SP

“These are very tempting… But Specialization has something I want to try out… Especially with the mix, combine, and redistribute matter… I need to focus on the other two as well, but the Restore Mana Quicker just isn't doing it for me. If anything, it feels like a waste of SP… Menu Buy Specialization up to Redistribute Matter and Instant Matter Manipulation along with Earth Defense.”

SP:0

Ashner sensed his mana shift. His body was a little lighter. "That does it. I'm out of SP."

Wong raised his eyebrow. “Why focus on Specialization instead of offense and defense?”

“Because everything in this menu is offensive… Let me try something.”

Ashner drew his Beretta M9 from its holster. "That world doesn’t have guns… But with our weapons…” Ashner willed his power into his handgun, it turned to dust, the metal wrapped around his arm into a wristband.”

Wong raised his eyebrow.

Willing his mana again, the metal turned to dust and molded again in his hand. Turning into the M9 once more.

"It worked." Ashner smiled, a little relieved.

"You can hide multiple weapons around your body." Wong studied him. "On top of that, if your armor shatters, you can restore it with your mana… Specialization served as both offensive and defense.”

"I wish I had more SP. If I did, I could focus on the other skills."

“Just earn more SP.”

"I wish I knew how." Ashner sighed. "For now, this will have to do.”

“What about Key Tech, our company?” Wong changed the topic. “Are the tech geeks there?”

“Yes, I bought the equipment they needed and hired a real security firm… So they won't have White Water harassing them without a fight… Evaristo is confident in his work, so I'll leave it to him."

One of the trucks shook violently.

Alex jerked back.

“Relax, that’s just one of the bulls…” Wong smirked. “Are you scared of it?”

“A little," Alex admitted. "Your world has weird animals. It's unnerving how they only have one tail."

“Animals are weird from your side as well.” Wong tapped his shoulder. “Ready to go?”

Alex nodded and jumped inside the truck.

Ashner tapped his key against the garage door. It slowly shifted.

*******

“These are called cows," Wong exclaimed to a group of demi-bunnies who kept their distance from the animals. "They're not vicious, but you need to be cautious with the bulls. They tend to be aggressive.”

The demi women studied Wong curiously. They had spent the last few hours releasing cattle into pre-prepared farms. “Demi-cow’s are a race in our world.” One of the demi-bunnies added.

“They are?” Wong studied the cows.

“Yes, are there bunnies in your world?" She asked eagerly.

“Yes, they have the same ears and tails you girls have.”

The girls mumbled between themselves.

“Maybe demi’s were created using animals in my world…” Wong debated with himself.

The girls eagerly petted the cattle, and some kept their distance. This was a creature from another world. So only the braver demi's dared to caress them.

“Cows produce milk which can be harvested and sold." Wong continued. "Everyone here has the responsibility of keeping the cows well-fed."

“We know how to take care of cattle.” One of the girls spoke up. She had a dark complexion with white bunny ears. “We can handle this.”

“Oh, in that case. The task is yours." Wong raised his eyebrows and walked off. As he did, the girls started giggling. “That’s suspicious…”

“Is it true that you’ll sire Violet’s next litter of demi-bunnies?" Another bunny girl asked. She was curious with a happy smile. "Violet speaks highly of you and your performance… In her bedroom…"

The other girls tried to get her to pipe down, but that girl was trouble.

“That blabbermouth." Wong shook his head. "I did my part to ensure your race ended up joining our kingdom… But don't spread odd rumors about me."

“They’re rumors to improve your reputation.” The girl smirked. “You’re smarter than Gio and easier to talk to than Ashner… An ideal father candidate.”

The girl winked, which immediately earned her some hushed remarks about her desire to have what belongs to their chieftain.

Wong raised one eyebrow. "I did my part, and I don't belong to her."

“You slept with her once. But she didn’t have a litter… The agreement…”

“The agreement was… I’d give her a litter.” Wong sighed. “I thought demi-bunnies only had a litter if they wanted to.”

“Yes… But in her case… She might've resisted because she wanted to see you again." The girl teased. This time the girls around her giggled, and some blushed.

That bunny girl walked up towards Wong. She was shorter than Violet with a slimmer figure. "If your lust isn't satisfied, seek me out." She skimmed his well-toned arms. Her eyes desired what her leader had, envy in the form of lust.

“Why is your entire race filled with sexual deviants?" Wong shrugged her off and paced away from the girls. "Please keep these animals alive. I don't want to get into the habit of buying them every time I go into my world."

“As you command.” The girl ogled him. Now she understood why Violet was so interested in him.

*******

“What is this?” Ashner asked Elana, who wore a green headpiece made of bright blue and green gems. Next to her was Kabu. He stood about two feet shorter than her and wore thick leather hide.

“I know you asked us to work on homes first. But we decided to create this as a gift for you.” Kabu crossed his arms. He was proud of his work, even if it wasn't complete. "This will be your guild's headquarters."

“This isn’t necessary right now. You still have people sleeping in tents.”

Kabu shook his head. “Ashner, we’re all extremely grateful to you and your friends. Debate with us all you want. This is our gift to you… Please accept it.”

Ashner studied the foundation of the building. Sure enough, they had cleared a few homes and renovated the terrain. They were building a mansion.

After the dwarfs got their hands on the building supplies, they were both amazed and ecstatic to work. They had requested that he bring more materials, much more.

“Every race will have a guildhall, and every one of them can request jobs and missions for anyone who's willing to do the work," Elana explained. "Each guild will work together for the well-being of the kingdom.”

“You already gave me a room in the kingdom.”

“That won't do, Ashner. You fail to see how much you've done for us. Even if we have a ‘give and take relationship.’ Our lives were spared because of you and your allies. This is all we can offer… So please accept it."

“Alright, you win…” Ashner studied the building, Wong and Gio were more than happy to create their rooms from scratch. “Thank you.”

Elana smiled proudly, and Dabu sang happily.

“You're always so modest. Sometimes I wonder how much you hide inside your heart." Elana studied Ashner. "But your depression has faded… At least some of it has."

“It has?”

“Yes, it’s still more than any elf can handle, but I think my sister might have a factor in that.” She teased Ashner. “Is she up to your expectations?”

“There is no way I can answer that.”

Elana giggled. “She’ll care for you in any way you ask… Thank you for showing her kindness.” The queen bowed.

“She's my friend… Of course, I'll be kind to her."

“I expect a child as well…" Elana fiddled with her lip. "I've always wanted to be an aunt, and you two will end up having a half-elf which is unheard of in this era."

“Slow down.” Ashner raised his hand. “We’re not that far along… If anything, we’re still testing the waters.”

“You have three women who adore you… Lina won’t cause you problems if you give her enough attention… In and out of the bedroom.”

“You’re so open about this.” Ashner wasn’t comfortable talking about sex with Elana, which only made the elf raise her eyebrow.

“You humans are odd.” She smiled and glanced at Dabu. “Shall we head out? I want to show you these animals called chickens… They're similar to the demi-chickens in the days of old with their feathers. Oh, and they supply an egg about once a day.”

“Once a day? That’ll keep us well fed.” Dabu smiled and skipped away with the queen.

My depression is fading? Well… I have been happier with the girls around… Every night is an adventure…

*******

"These are corn seeds." Gio held a handful of them. Demi-bunnies and dwarfs studied them. "With magic, they can grow five times faster, so make sure to-"

"Gio! Gio!" Elven, dwarven, and demi-bat children rushed around him. "You're back!"

“Did you bring treats?”

“Gio, you promised you’d let us ride your metal mount.”

“Come play with us.”

The crowd surrounding Gio started giggling. Some of them urged the children to give the man his space.

Some of their parents apologized for their children's behavior.

“Let them have their fun.” Gio smiled. “I did bring treats, but that’ll have to wait until tomorrow.”

The children nodded. Some of them whined. He studied them and caught that Ari was with them. She was smiling, which in turn filled Gio with joy.

*******

“These are spectacular.” The demi-fox rubbed the cheap shirt. “I can sell these for about fifteen maybe twenty gold pieces each.”

“Miss.” Ashner.

“My name is Akemi.” She bowed, her clothing covered up most of her body, but she had a lovely face and a frail figure despite that. "I'm in charge of selling clothing, … When I lived with the demi-bunnies, I made my own for them, but nothing as good as this."

“That's because you don't have a sewing machine or any type of modern-day item to produce them… Next time I go into my world, I'll bring a manual sewing machine. It doesn't require electricity to work, but I will charge you for it."

Akemi bowed. “I appreciate your consideration Ashner.”

“Don't worry about it. You are helping me get rich as well, and that shirt you’re holding is cheap. I bought them in bulk.” Ashner explained. “I also brought better quality clothing so you can sell them at a higher price.”

"Seriously? Your world is amazing." Her eyes widened happily. "May I see the high-quality clothing?"

“Of course you can.” Melissa interrupted as she walked into the store, it was well made, but some parts of the walls needed improvement. Risa and Lina accompanied Melissa. She spun towards the shopkeeper. "Good afternoon, Akemi.”

"You're up to something once more, Melissa." The shopkeeper glared at her friend.

"I'm not up to anything. I'm just here to show you how people from my world dress." Melissa just about forgot Ashner was standing next to her. "Now I need my assistant to enter the room."

Nothing happened.

“I said… My assistant needs to enter…” She spoke a little louder, again nothing. "Alex, get your ass out here!"

“Sorry… I’m just not comfortable in this." Alex rushed in, wearing a professionally made suit and tie. It was slim around his waist, but it suited him nicely. "I'm here."

"You ruined my presentation." Melissa moped, but she recovered fast. "What you see here."

She pointed at Alex and moved her hand in a circle. Alex spun and gave off random model poses.

Who taught him that? It had to be Melissa.

"As you can see, this outfit is what high-quality men in my world wear… It brings out the eyes, shoulders, and gives an aura of high status.”

It does?

“It's different," Akemi admitted. She glanced at Risa and Lina. "What do you ladies think about it?"

“I like it.” Risa gave it a single glance then turned her eyes towards the door.

She never drops her guard, even in this world.

Lina helped herself and pampered the fabric, gripping Alex’s shoulder and chest. Making him giggle. “Stop it.”

“I love it, and it's a shame Ashner doesn't wear one of these." She hinted loudly.

“Ashner, why don’t you wear one?” Alex tilted his head. “It would suit you better.”

"I've never had much of an eye for fashion," Ashner admitted.

"All you need is a woman's touch." Melissa reached into one of the boxes and handed him a wrapped-up suit. "I may have measured you while you were asleep."

“I don’t know how to react to that.” Ashner raised his eyebrow. “Do you want me to wear this?”

"Yes!" Risa, Lina, and Melissa all spoke at once, each unaware of their desires. They studied each other then giggled.

“Well…” Ashner debated it.

They all look so excited about this…

Ashner smiled and walked into a dressing room, where he took off his military gear and put on the suit.

When he emerged, the girls lit up. Risa blushed and smiled. Melissa jumped for joy, and Lina bit her lip.

It's just a suit. Why are they so thirsty?

“It suits you.” Alex smiled. “Clothes worthy of your status.”

Melissa studied every inch of Ashner then kissed his lips.

“What are you doing?” Ashner asked.

"White room… Summon it right now… You're so hot I can't wait…" She kissed him again. Risa glared away while Lina's thighs rubbed together.

Ashner tapped a door next to him. The key shifted wood and welcomed them to the white room.

Melissa grabbed his suit and dragged him in.

"Lina! Risa! Get your butts in here!" Melissa ordered from inside the room. "Alex, finish our transactions!"

The girls entered and closed the room leaving Alex and a very confused demi-fox behind.

Melissa undid his pants, and Lina kissed his lips while Risa sucked on his neck.

They’re pushy today.

Ashner didn't hold back once they excited him, but they refused to let him change out of his outfit. Instead, he pounded them with the suit on.

That night the girls were louder than usual.

I should never underestimate the power of a well-tailored suit.

*******

Deep in the queen's chambers, the aroma of sex filled the room. Bed-sheets were wrinkled and covered in sweat. Gio carried the queen with his strong arms, thrusting as hard as possible. Since she was so thick, he wasn't afraid of hurting her.

“Faster!” She moaned as she held on tightly to his shoulders.

"Beg for it," Gio smirked and slowed down.

“FASTER! PLEASE MAKE ME CUM!” She begged with a desperate face.

"That's better." Gio inhaled and pushed so fast his muscles burned, but it was worth it. Elana moaned loudly, and midway through, she came and spasmed. Gio didn't slow down until he was satisfied.

The two collapsed on the bed, with Elana on top of Gio. She was out of breath. Tired, the elf lifted herself up, even over him. Her chest caressed his body.

“Don’t make me wait that long for you.” She huffed. “Another man might come along and snatch me away.”

Gio fiddled with her ear. “It was only three weeks… And you won’t pick another man.” He smirked.

Elana glared at him.

"You beg me for sex… Deep down, it's what you want most…"

Elana tilted her head away from Gio.

“You’re the proudest woman I’ve ever met.” Gio slid his hand down and played with her pussy. “Even if you keep trying to deny it, you want me.”

Elana bit her lip. The pain only subsisted the pleasure for a few seconds. Gio moved his hand away and played with her juices between his fingers.

“Your body doesn’t lie…”

"A queen needs to be stubborn and proud," Elana admitted while she recovered. She was sore after their session. "I have a question for you, Gio."

“Ask.”

“It seems to me that Wong and Ashner are both gathering a handful of female followers. Those two are handsome, and both have virtues the women in my world won't ignore… I'm curious… Will you seek out other women… Even if you have me as a lover?"

“No… I have what I want with you…”

Elana's eyes widened. She got up and tossed Gio his clothes. “Get out.”

“What?” He obeyed and put his underwear on. “Are you upset?”

“Am I upset?” She glared at him. “Why would you dishonor yourself like that?”

"Dishonor?" Gio put his clothes on, and she crossed her arms and glanced away.

"Elana?" Gio put his shirt on and waited for a reply. "Why are you upset? In my world, most women only want one man."

She raised her eyebrow in disbelief. “Do you expect me to believe that?” Elana scoffed.

“You can ask Ashner or Wong… I swear it to you.”

Elana sighed heavily. Even naked and mad, Gio found her beyond delightful. "Men in our world are scarce. The demi-bunnies are not the only all-female race, not to mention it’s usually men who go to war and die young… It's not uncommon for a man to wed dozens of women… The more women he has, the more value he has as a man… If you're going to disrespect me and devalue your status as a man, you'll, in turn, devalue mine as a woman… I won't have that… So get out…"

“You want me to have multiple women?” Gio studied her eyes, but she wasn’t lying. “I’m not a pretty boy like Wong, and I certainly don’t have Ashner’s skills. I’m a meathead… I honestly didn’t know this was how you felt.”

“Now you do.” She studied him, her body ached for more, but her pride ruled her decision. “If we end up married, it’ll be the first time in history that a royal elf and a man marry… When we have children, it'll be the first time a half-elf rules."

"Wait, wait, wait. Kids and marriage…" Gio studied the queen, her eyes enraged more. He was a few words away from getting yelled at. "I don't know how marriage works on this side. In mine, the male asks the female to marry him, and he presents her a ring."

"That's odd." Elana was curious about his world, but she wasn't in the mood to talk to him after what she had just learned. "In my world, a woman asks a man to marry her. If she's worthy, he accepts… I admit that I've been dragging my feet since we're barely getting back on our feet. And the kingdom isn't repaired fully, so we can't have an official ceremony… But I think it's time you have your first wife."

Gio was so conflicted with her words he studied the room rapidly and cleared his throat.

“Are you asking me to marry you?”

"A queen doesn't ask. A queen demands…" Her composure broke, and her tone became hesitant. "Gio, be mine… Forever…"

Gio smiled and laughed. “Underneath that ego of yours, you still find it hard to express your real emotions.”

“Shut up.” She closed her arms and moved her body away from him. “Yes, or no… I'm a queen, so I won't have an issue finding another man…”

“But you won’t.” Gio frisked her lips. “I accept.”

Elana's face burned red. Even her ears blushed. "Then I’ll make the arrangements. By the time it snows, we'll be married… And I don't wish to tarnish your traditions, so bring me this ring you spoke of… We can mix your traditions with mine… For the first time in history, a human will betroth a royal elf… Our souls will be bound until death robs us of our life…"

“You’re excited.” Gio teased.

"Am not!" She calmed herself. "It's expected of me… Now leave my quarters… After our marriage, I expect to be your first choice always, even after you accept the marriage requests from other women…”

Gio kissed her quickly, which only made her face burn more. Elana's ears wiggled, and she stepped away, desiring more sex… But once again, her ego took control.

“Leave my quarters.” She ordered.

“Alrighty.” Gio walked towards the front door.

“Oh, one last thing.” Elana’s voice echoed. “I’m with child.”

Gio’s jaw dropped.

*******

“Daddy Gio.” Ashner poked his shoulder. “Doesn’t that sound awesome?”

"I wasn't expecting this so soon… I mean, we only had sex three, maybe four dozen times. How can she be pregnant?"

“Did you use protection?” Wong sipped on his coffee. “You didn’t.”

"I didn't cause Ashner told me demi's couldn't have kids with humans." Gio glared at Ashner. "You lied to me."

"No, I said demi-cats can't have kids with humans… Elves are a different story."

"Oh, man… I'm also getting married." Gio smiled. "I'm okay with that… But she wants me to have multiple wives… It does sound good, but I'm happy with just her."

“Women on this planet are deviants.” Wong sipped his drink again. “I’m surprised we didn’t see that type of behavior from Risa and Lina.”

Wong studied the girls, who both rolled their eyes.

“It’s true that a man with multiple wives is desirable." Lina tapped her head. "If he has multiple wives, then he has wealth, food, and is strong enough to protect them. Is your world different?"

“Yes, one man for one woman.” Wong finished his drink.

"I just assumed those were men of lower-class," Lina admitted. "Ashner doesn't seem to mind having multiple women at once."

Ashner coughed on his drink.

Melissa smiled and clung to his shoulder. "You're bashful now? Even after we had that amazing foursome…”

Gio raised his eyebrows. Suddenly the idea of multiple wives wasn't that bad.

"Why are you against it, Risa?" Ashner asked the demi-cat, who was keeping an eye on the demi's gathering near them.

“I’m selfish. Girls like me exist.” Her ears drooped. “But I’m happy as long as I’m yours.”

“Then that settles that.” Wong turned his laptop on. It had a solar panel attached to it. “Gio needs to marry another girl… Maybe pick one of the demi-bunnies. They seem to be desperate.”

"Give me some time. I can't just throw my emotions on another girl like that… But we're going to get married when winter arrives." Gio smiled. "I’m excited.”

“First human from our world to bang a demi, first one to marry one, and the first one to knock one up… I have to admit, you've impressed me beyond my expectations." Wong teased.

"You're one to talk." Violet sat down next to Wong. She wore a thin outfit that revealed her stomach and shoulders. Her face was painted with purple tribal designs, along with her arms and legs. She clung to him, cuddling his arm and rubbing her head against his. “You kept me waiting all night, Doctor Wong.”

Wong sighed. “Stop that. You’re making me uncomfortable.” Violet released him with a troubled gaze.

“… But you’re always so eager when we’re having sex… You even make me beg for your affection…”

Wong’s eyes widened, and his face turned red with embarrassment.

Gio snorted, and Ashner laughed.

Wong's vein pulsed. He grabbed his mouse and tapped it against her head. "Don't you have any tact?"

“Owww.” Violet palmed her head. Still annoyed. “I’m sorry… But I gathered some demi-bunnies for Ashner… They’re girls I trust and who work hard… They’ll have the privilege of entering your world and serving you… They know if they disobey or cause any problems for you, they'll be swiftly dealt with…"

Wong continued typing on his laptop, starting up a program.

“Wong.” Violet put her hands on the table and leaned her head towards him. “Can you praise me now? I did do everything you asked me to do.”

“No.”

“Why not?”

"Because that was a simple task… If you want me to praise you, then do something that'll impress me."

“Something that’ll impress you…” Violet debated it in her mind for a while.

What did he do to her? That demi is all over him…

"Bring the drone." Wong motioned towards Gio, who had it in the back of one of their trucks.

Wong started up the system. Violet and a few demi’s gawked at the computer monitor with awe.

"What kind of magic is that?" Violet flicked the laptop's screen. Wong quickly smacked her hand away.

“Don’t touch it. This is how we're going to map out the world." Wong pushed a button on his computer, which made the blades on the drone spin.

Once it took flight, the demi's gasped. Some of them even jumped up, trying to reach for it.

“Camera on." The laptop turned on and showed an aerial view of the demi's below. Violent opened her mouth slowly. "Alright, everything seems to be working. I remodeled the drone since we don’t have the internet, so it gives us a direct feed."

The drone took flight high above the city. As it did, Wong ran a system that recorded the terrain and the kingdom. From the castle to the run-down city and the trees surrounding it.

Grabbing a joystick, Wong moved the drone a thousand meters ahead and started typing on his computer.

“This drone has a range of about five miles with a flight time of about two hours.” Wong continued working. “This will take me all day… But at least it’s fun… Everyone else, scatter and let me work.”

Gio and Ashner walked away. Wong worked better when he was alone. So those two had gotten accustomed to leaving him whenever he asked. Everyone left, including the demi's that had eavesdropped. All except Violet. As they stepped away, she clung to Wong's arm. And Ashner swore he perceived his vein pulse on his forehead.

*******

Ashner walked through the kingdom. The demi's kept their distance.

Most homes were lived in with ten demi’s, sometimes more. A temporary solution until enough homes were built. Despite how much stuff Ashner bought, it was barely a dent in his finances.

Gio followed behind along with a few demi-bunnies until they arrived at a gazebo with a thin net around it to keep bugs out. Ashner sat down with his friends and the girls.

“I only have about 2500 XP. So I can only take three of you.” Ashner explained to the eight demi-bunnies, some of their ears dropped down on their heads. “I will work you hard, and I will pay you appropriately.”

“You’ll pay us?” All of their ears came up together.

“Of course, how does five mythril coins a day sound?” Their eyes widened. “One of those is approximately a hundred gold coins… Does that satisfy you?”

The girls nodded happily, and their tails wagged, even if Ashner didn't perceive it.

“It won’t be easy, but I’ll test your skills with driving and basic courtesy. Sadly I can only take a few of you with me, but it is what it is." Ashner tapped Alex's shoulder. "He'll be your instructor."

The demi’s eyes fluttered once they took in Alex’s beauty.

“He’s also going to decide who’s worthy of coming into our world.” Alex gave him a confused gaze. “You took the initiative and learned how to drive. So I’m giving you more responsibilities.”

“But.”

“No buts, find me once you decide which three demi’s are coming with us.”

Ashner left them behind and made his way towards the castle.

“Our little bro is growing up so fast.” Gio teased as Alex stuttered with his instructions. “I hope they don’t eat him alive…”

"How is he so shy when you can wave his finger and hordes of women will come to him?" Ashner glanced back. The bunny girls were very attentive to Alex's instructions. "He has grown up, at least a little."

"You've grown more," Gio added. "From my point of view, I woke up, and you were miserable, now you're more or less reverting to who you used to be… Just a bit different, now you're more cautious."

“You haven’t changed at all.”

“Why would I? I’m happy in my own skin, and now I have to be a father… I wonder if I’ll have a boy or a girl?”

“We should do some type of baby shower.” Melissa stuck her head between the boys.

“Baby shower?” Risa raised her eyebrows.

“It’s a celebration for a mother… We throw her a party and give her gifts for the baby.”

“That sounds delightful.” Lina smiled. “I’m going to be an aunt soon, and I’m glad it’s with Gio… I know you’ll treasure my sister… But once you wed, I’ll have to refer to you as King Gio.”

“Oh shit, I'm going to be a king." Gio whooped. "What kind of duties will I have??

"Duties?" Lina's ear came down, and she studied Gio. "It's a Queen's duty to rule. A king has to provide heirs and protect her majesty."

"So I get no responsibilities, just the title? That's actually kind of sweet."

"Well… Your day-to-day duties will depend on what my sister wants. But essentially nothing will change."

“I can work with that.” Gio smiled as they took a turn towards a building with bat wings designed into it. “What’s this?”

"This is the demi-bats guild hall," Melissa explained. "Let's go inside."

The first thing the group absorbed was the damp air inside the hall, it was darker, and above them, some demi-bats used their feet to hang upside down. Some signs were posted on the walls, and a few attendants were handing out missions to small adventuring groups.

“It’s them.” One of the demi’s whispered.

Ashner studied the adventurers. Some were just demi-bats, but others had elves, dwarfs, and demi-bunnies.

All heavily armored with swords, spears, shields, and bows.

Now that I think about it, they have the most dangerous job. It makes sense that they get paid better than any other job around here.

“It's you… The broken." One demi-bunny stood tall. She was easily over six-five, with muscles larger than Ashner's. Towering over him, her weapon of choice was a large war hammer. Behind her, two demi-bunnies, one elf, and three demi-bats followed. "I need to speak with you."

She’s massive.

She reached for her weapon.

Ashner willed his power, creating an M9, but Risa held his arm back before he attacked.

The demi-bunny lowered her weapon in front of Ashner, then kneeled on all fours.

"What are you doing?" Ashner turned his weapon to dust. It wrapped around his hand and turned into a bracelet.

“I’ve been searching for you…” The woman struggled with her words.

“Well, here I am.”

“My name is Helena.” Her black ears matched with her hair. “I have been gathering as much information as I could about you… And your power that involves XP… I have a request…”

“I’ll hear you out.”

“I have a sister who’s ill. I don’t have the money yet to help her, but if it’s possible, can you use your XP to heal her?”

"That's it?" Ashner rubbed his head. He studied everyone around him, who all held their breath. "Unfortunately, my power doesn't cure physical illnesses, and I only get XP if my slaves or I kill monsters, which makes it very unreliable… Helena, medical care and medicine are free for all… That's something Doctor Wong was very adamant about. My guild is paying for it out of pocket because we need Sanctuary's citizens to be healthy and restore this kingdom…"

The members around the group murmured between each other. Helena raised her head, conflicted.

"Exploiting people who are struggling just to get by isn't smart. It'll just cause tension and hate among the community… You don’t have to lower yourself to me…”

“All I am is a hammer…” Helena replied. “I don’t have the mind or skills to do anything other than fight… Yet you can fight and lead. All the while, you think of the safety of not just our leaders but the lowest of us… I have another request…"

“What is it?”

"Let me be your hammer… If your XP is scarce, then I will be your XP… Every monster I kill will serve you and in turn serve our entire kingdom…"

“Do you understand what you’re asking… You’re asking me to…”

“Make me your slave.” She spat the words out dreadfully. “Just saying that sickens me… But I’ve seen how you treat your slaves, and if I’m yours, then no human will ever enslave me… I don’t fear death, what I fear, no, what all demi’s fear is enslavement… I’ve seen how you treat Violet and Wilson… All of us are equal in your eyes… I wish to serve someone who will ensure those around me that I love survive… All I can offer you is my life… Please accept me…”

“I…" Ashner did find her offer tempting, and it would help him obtain XP without risking his life.

The elf next to her kneeled and put his compound bow next to him, then he bowed. “To serve the broken is equal to serving the kingdom.”

The demi-bats followed, and soon the entire guild readied themselves for submission.

“Well… Damn…”

180 Slaves Obtained.

*******

“That took longer than I expected.” Ashner sat down on a couch stuffed with what he presumed was some type of straw.

Wilson sat in front of him. One of his servants brought them both a cup of cold tea. “You make the title of King seem senseless.” Wilson sipped on his drink.

“What makes you say that?” Ashner asked as he sipped on the bitter liquid.

"Every demi race has a King, or Chief, or some Lord. But never in our history have dozens of demi's purposely submitted themselves to a man or demi." He sipped again. "If anything, you're the closest thing to a real king in this city. Since you have all the power."

“No.” Ashner shook his head. “I’m not even from this world… You need to lead, along with Elana, Violet, and Kabu.”

"If you say so," Wilson smirked and spun the cup in his hand. "After what transpired today, I expect more demi's will ask you to become their master… And ask their King I won’t submit to you, nor will I go lightly on you if you decide to abuse the power they willingly submitted to you.”

Ashner smirked. "And you told me you didn't act very kingly… If I ever abuse my power and become the enemy of demi's… Then, by all means, end my life…"

"I doubt it'll ever get to that point, and I do consider you a friend for what that's worth."

"Do it because you're my friend." Ashner sipped on the tea, and now he hoped it was alcohol.

Gio sat silently and wide-eyed as both friends casually threatened each other. In comparison, the rest of the group kept their opinions to themselves.

“Gio, give it to him.” Ashner reached for his flask, then recalled that he hadn’t packed it… He raised his eyebrow then returned to his tea.

The large man took off his rucksack and unzipped it. He pulled out a radio system with a phone attached to it.

“What is that?” Wilson stretched his wings, partly treating it like a threat.

“That's a UHF VHF military radio system. A few hours ago, I asked some dwarfs to build an antenna on top of the castle. I even managed to get a spark stone from Wong." Gio turned the machine on and started dabbling with the rubber buttons. "I want you to bring one of your smartest demi-bats. Gio will teach him or her how to use and maintain this piece of equipment."

"What makes it so special?" Wilson relaxed, his wings retraced back and shrunk.

Gio gave Ashner a thumbs up.

“King Wilson, will you please grab the phone and put it to your face.” Wilson grabbed it and got it right on his first attempt.

“Now what?”

“Now press and hold the rubber button and pretend you’re talking to Kabu.”

Wilson pushed the button cautiously and spoke. “Master dwarf, as always, it’s an honor to speak to you.”

Wilson let go of the button, confused.

“By the Gods!" Kabu's voice boomed from the phone. "Is that you, King Wilson?"

Wilson shook and studied Gio and Ashner, who remained calm. "What type of magic is this?"

"It's not magic. It's my world's technology. Setting up a military radio ended up easier and less cost-effective than creating our own towers from scratch… Now don't keep Kabu waiting. He's holding the same phone from his guild."

“The same?” Wilson studied the gear and rationalized something. “If we had this at the beginning of the war.”

"You would've easily slaughtered mankind," Ashner answered for him. "But I will not allow genocide to occur with my world's technology… We have every right to defend ourselves, but we will not kill senselessly."

“Kabu, can we speak in a few minutes?” Wilson needed some time to ponder.

"Of course," Kabu replied happily.

"How many of these did you bring?" Wilson asked, trying to hide his curiosity.

"Enough for each guild, and smaller radios for our guards, eventually I'd like to bring enough, so each adventuring party can carry at least one… If we can train enough people, we can establish a proper and fast response time between the citizens living here. That will, in turn, help us organize faster if our kingdom is ever in danger. And we can create quick response groups in case some adventurers or our guards find themselves in a pinch."

“This is all amazing… Your world must have mastered warfare.”

"My world can destroy itself if the people in charge decide to have an all-out war."

“Your people’s leaders? Aren’t you a leader in your world?” Wilson narrowed his eyes. “I can’t picture you as an ordinary citizen.”

“You'd be surprised… Anyway, we're going to need these to communicate with each other. And in time, I plan on expanding our communication network. Further into the world. Hopefully, we can communicate with people hundreds of miles across the world."

“Hundreds?” Wilson dropped his jaw. “Is that possible?”

“I can’t say, but if we have the will, then we can make it happen.”

"Then let's drink on it. As leaders of our people." Wilson nodded at his servant, who quickly grabbed a faded bottle. Ashner’s eyebrows lifted curiously.

“I recently opened a barrel we had been aging.” Wilson tapped it. “It’s from the Victory era, aged in some of our finest Whitenoose trees, the ones that only grow on the floating continents.”

"Floating continents?" Ashner, Melissa, and Gio quickly leaned forward towards Wilson.

"Tell me about those," Gio begged.

“How large are they?” Melissa questioned.

Wilson giggled softly. "You bring technology far beyond our world's understanding, and the idea of a floating continent brings this much fascination towards you three? You truly are from another world."

Wilson handed the group a cup. "Let's drink to a better tomorrow."

Everyone took a cup and sipped.

That’s good.

*******

Ashner, Lina, Melissa, and Risa finished for the night. Each covered in sweat and mixed in each other’s juices.

“That lasted at least three hours.” Melissa gasped her words. She leaned toward Risa and kissed her lips. “We need to play a little more.”

Risa’s face blushed, but she kissed her back.

Lina kissed Ashner's lips. Then nudged his face. It had healed since they hadn't left the kingdom in three weeks.

“Can I ask you a favor?” Lina asked as she stroked his dick.

“What do you want?” Ashner asked, hoping she didn’t stop.

“That day… When I met Ensley… I was completely powerless… If it’s not too much to ask… Can you spend your XP on me?”

“What do you want to learn?” Ashner asked.

“Future Sight is an amazing spell… Maybe Detect Life and Share Mana since I have an abundance of it.” She stroked faster. “Please… Master…”

"It's hard to say no when you're doing that," Ashner admitted.

“I do this because I love to make you happy.” Lina had fucked Ashner multiple times these last couple of months. She ascertained how fast and how tightly she needed to stroke.

Below them, Melissa and Risa got more serious. Melissa pinned Risa. Spreading her legs, she licked the neku, making her purr.

“Menu max out Lina’s Future Sight, Detect Life, and Share Mana.”

The screen spun.

XP:3280

Huh? Oh, those adventurer's I recruited. They must've killed some monsters.

Lina sensed her mana spike. Her new powers were at her fingertips.

"Thank you, master."

“What does future sight do?” Ashner asked.

"I'm glad you asked." Lina's eyes shifted. They turned yellow with green. "It lets me see up to three minutes in the future… If I'm quick, I can change it."

Lina pressed her large breasts against Ashner's chest, tumbling him to his side right before he came. The elf used her eyes and aimed, nailing Risa's face and chest.

"What was that?" Risa asked, disorientated.

“With this… I can be more helpful.” She kissed Ashner’s lips.

“I want something too.” Melissa nagged childishly. As she licked the cum off her Risa’s face and tits.

"What do you want, brat?" Ashner asked as he smiled. The sight of Melissa licking off his cum was hot.

"To me, this isn't just another world… This is a magical and beautiful land… And I've always secretly wanted to dance inside a massive ball. We can invite Gio and Elana and anyone else that wants to join. But the men have to wear fancy suits and the women have to wear dresses. Daring and fashionable ones." Melissa licked Risa's neck. "Can you do that for me?"

"Of course…" Ashner studied Risa, who was just barely handling the pleasure. "And last but not least, Risa. Anything you want from me?"

Risa stayed silent while she recovered. “Well… I want something… But I understand if you say no.”

“Tell us.” Melissa urged.

“Ashner…” Risa found her courage. “Will you marry us?”

“Us?”

"Yes. Marry me, Risa and Melissa… At first, I was against the idea of sharing you… But I love you, and I love them…"

“Love?” Ashner’s heart raced. This was the first time any woman had told him that.

"Yes… I've loved you for a while. That's why I want you to marry me."

“I… Well… I…”

Melissa kissed Ashner's ear and whispered. "If you say no, I'm stealing Lina and Risa from you… Don't bitch out…"

Her words made Ashner find his resolve. “Sure… I’ll marry the three of you… But let’s let Gio get married first… I don’t want to steal his thunder.”

“Of course.” Melissa kissed Lina.

Risa lit up. “Really? You’ll really marry us?’

“Yes.” Ashner smiled down at her. “I care deeply about the three of you. So I’ll do anything you want…”

Risa cuddled Ashner and purred. After a few seconds, she started licking his rod.

Ashner smiled.

Melissa put her head next to Ashner as Lina ate her out. Both of them moaned softly.

"I love your smile," Melissa admitted. "Can I ask you something?"

“Of course.”

“Are you happy? And I mean, truly happy?”

Ashner debated it in the middle of his blowjob. He recalled how his life was before, how it shifted, the people he met, and lastly, he reflected the idea of happiness in his mind…

“Yes.” He spoke from his heart. “I’m very happy.”

Melissa smiled and kissed him.

And three hours of sex turned to five.

*******

Ashner awoke to three beautiful women around him. As much as he wanted to indulge in lust, he stood up and got dressed. Today he was going back to his world.

The girls dressed themselves, teasing each other as they did.

As they walked through the kingdom hallway, Wong stopped them.

"Ashner, I need you to come with me. I found something… Very interesting with the drone…"

“Can’t this wait? I need to turn in the gold bars to the five companies today.”

“That is today.” Wong debated his situation. “This can’t wait. I’ll take the Stryker and some demi’s that are willing to go exploring.”

"Take Gio too. The world outside is dangerous."

"Of course." Wong nodded. "Keep the white room open. Once I figure out what I need, I'll be returning to Earth."

"Yeah." Ashner and the girls kept moving, leaving Wong behind.

Ashner found Alex waiting by the entrance to the white room. He had picked three demi-bunnies.

"Ashner." Alex smiled. "I determined these girls would be best for the job. They learned how to drive, and I taught them basic manners."

"Good job Alex." Ashner tapped his shoulder. "From today, you'll be in charge of those girls. I'll give you tasks that you'll need to perform, and those girls will be your assistants. I expect you to treat them fairly."

“Of course.” Alex smiled proudly.

“Okay, let’s go home.” Ashner picked up his duffle bag and walked inside the white room.

*******

“What the fuck.” Gio stopped the Stryker. “How is this possible?”

The Stryker's hatch lowered, and Gio, Wong, three demi-bunnies, and a male elf walked out.

"This is… Is it real?" Gio turned to Wong, who was conflicted. "Wong, what is this?"

Wong reached for the stone. On it was dozens of etchings. "This is a completed Stonehenge."

The Stryker was parked right outside the stone monument. It was eerily similar to the one on Earth, but it was perfectly preserved, and the rocks were complete.

Wong toyed with the markings on them. “These are Mayan letters.” The stones had etchings carved into them.

“Does this mean?” Gio scoped the horizon.

“Maybe.”

A thousand or so meters away from their location, another Stonehenge monument stood but outside of its rock formation stood fifteen Easter island statues. As if to protect the formation.

"What are these?" Wong asked. The elf spoke first.

"These are the first stones." He grazed them. "Our history talks about them… All demi's came from these. Apparently, humans and animals came from these stones as well."

“So if your theory holds merit… We weren’t the first humans from Earth to walk across this world.”

Past the Easter Egg Stonehenge, hundreds of thousands of Stonehenge monuments stood untouched. None of them were damaged. They stretched as far as their eyes surmised.