{[Don't measure your accomplishments by the money you have, or the home you live in… Measure it with how happy you wake up every morning… Measure it with how often you smile with your loved ones… And consider yourself wealthy when you close your eyes at night eager for the next day…]}
A hangover is the price someone pays after having a little too much fun.
Ashner woke up with his head aching. His mouth was dry and begging for water. He was back in his room. Luna and Risa were wrapped around him, and the blanket was on the cold floor.
What a night.
"Time to get up." Ashner shook both girls. Risa lunged up immediately. She rubbed the back of her head. Luna had removed her green leather coat since it got dirty and only wore a white top that did nothing to hide her large chest. As she stood, her bosoms shook.
Ashner leered.
Luna perceived it right away and subconsciously covered her chest with her hands. The prior night she had spent half a tub of toothpaste to cleanse her breath, and admittedly, she had drunkenly swallowed some. But at least her breath was minty fresh.
Ashner glanced away as Risa rubbed her eyes.
Risa glanced at Ashner and Luna. She narrowed her eyes since the elf had removed an article of her clothing. Luna smirked at the cat girl, giving her the wrong idea.
Risa took off without saying a word. Her nails dug into her palms, and she gritted her teeth.
"She seems to be in a bad mood." Ashner grasped that much. Luna leaned up. Her long green hair was messy, and her thin clothes left her vulnerable to the eyes.
"She hates to lose." Luna enjoyed teasing Risa, even in little misunderstandings.
"Also… About last night…" Ashner clasped his lips above his mask.
"Well." Luna's face and ears became red. "We drank too much, and most of the night is a blur, you know? I don't remember coming into your room or Risa being here. I do remember going down by the river, but I don't know why."
Luna's tone shifted. She was obviously lying, but the hard plastic on his face was a reminder of how deformed he was. "Yeah…" Ashner accepted her answer.
I might've imagined her kissing me… It's not like anyone would… I'm not exactly handsome…
Ashner dressed himself and went to the river to clean himself up. As he made his way there, the locals were cautious of him. But they weren't hostile.
Luna grabbed her leather top and put it on. It helped push her breasts into her body, not that it did much to hide her chest, but it helped when she walked or ran. She admired herself. Luna was proud of her femininity, but it came with its own sets of issues.
"Did you two make love?" Risa was back in the room. She had cleaned her hair and face.
"No." Luna was honest. "But for a bit, my body wanted it…"
Risa smiled.
"But…" Luna's face burned red. "I did kiss him…"
Risa's smile faded, and she glared at Luna.
An angry cat glare.
"Oh, stop it," Luna smirked at Risa. "We both know Ashner has a thing for both of us. If you really like him, then chase him. Kiss him, take his clothes off, and then give him your first time."
Risa's ears dropped down.
"What are you scared of?" Luna walked next to Risa. "You treat me like a rival, but I haven't made a move on him."
"How can I not be scared?" Risa held her arm. She blushed and cocooned into herself. "I've never felt this way before… I'm a warrior… Love, and these fuzzy feelings are confusing… I want him to hug me… Maybe hold my hand… But he tried to sleep with me once… And I cried… How am I supposed to apologize for that?"
"He didn't force himself on you, even if the crest binds you." Luna grabbed Risa's shoulder. "I doubt his feelings for you have changed. If anything, you gave him a cold reality check… Maybe he thinks you never want to be with him."
"No." Risa shook her head. "I don't want him to think I turned him away forever… I want him to desire me… You have it so easy with that face and those milk bags."
"Milk bags?" Luna giggled at the words. "Having these doesn't guarantee a man will want me. If anything, they're just a distraction that captivates the eyes of all men and even women."
"It's not fair… If I had your body."
"If you had my body." Luna leaned in closer to Risa. The cat girl leaned back, and her back pressed against the wall. "You'd still panic."
Risa glared at Luna partly because she was right.
"Your emotions are forming." Luna put her fingers under Risa's chin. As she did, Risa's eyes relaxed like a switch was flipped. "You need to stop seeing me as your rival."
"I…" Risa's face burned hot. Admittedly, she was rarely cuddled or caressed, and Luna's charm was overwhelming.
Luna leaned in and lifted the cat girl's chin up gently, and then she kissed Risa.
Risa's ears shot up, and her eyes widened. Electricity ripped through the girl's body, her hands shook, and her chest and face grew hot. Luna continued her assault. Her hand ran down Risa's hips, around her thighs, and her fingers ran across Risa's kitten. The brunette's knees weakened, and she stumbled to her knees.
Luna went down to her knees, too, never letting go of Risa's chin. She was taller than the demi-cat, and now her eyes were devious, her lips dripped nectar, and her body enchanted all.
"Why?" Risa asked her body.
"You want more than just Ashner." Luna smiled. "It's why your body is breathing so heavily and why your nipples are hard… And why you're…"
Luna ran her fingers across Risa's pussy once more. This made Risa half moan and half chirp.
"So wet." Luna kissed Risa again, this time draining her energy and making her lightheaded. What surprised her most was her lower half, how it got wet.
Luna stood up with grace. Risa's face was a mess. Her lips were wet from Luna's kisses, and she squeezed her legs together.
"Don't forget that feeling." Luna composed herself. "Because the moment Ashner touches you, it'll feel more intense."
Risa glanced up at Luna with watery eyes.
"I'll give you some time to sort your emotions out." Luna walked out. As soon as she did, Risa walked towards the stone bed. She rolled on it. The scent of Ashner and Luna was mixed in it.
Risa inhaled it, her body still dripping. The aroma of Ashner and Luna shook her. She slid her pants down, and then she slowly slid a single finger inside. Her tail stood up, and her body spasmed. Soft moans followed, and her legs shook. Lastly, the covers ended up wet with her nectar.
Risa took a few seconds to recover. She got madder. Luna had shifted her desires onto her, and somehow, Risa had let it happen. In a way, she had lost. But her body, her body told her otherwise.
*******
"Hey, Ashner." Wong was smiling and waiting by the river.
"You're not hungover?"
"No, I didn't drink as much as…" In the distance, Gio was passed out by the river. Sometime in the night, he had gone out here to drink water but passed out. Luckily, he hadn't gone into the river, or else he'd be miles deep in unknown lands. Or worse. "Gio holds his liquor well. Sometimes, I think he might be a dwarf."
"Fuck you!" Gio drunkenly replied, "I ain't that short!"
"Well, at least he didn't die of alcohol poisoning." Wong shrugged. "Also, you need to check this out."
Wong leaned forward and did a handstand. Then his body went down as he started doing handstand push-ups.
"What am I supposed to see?"
"I haven't been able to do handstand push-ups since we were deployed." Wong got back on his feet. "That potion you gave me does more than just heal. It regenerates lost muscle mass. I have the same energy I did when I used to be a teenager. Physically and sexually, too."
"Don't rub it in."
Wong smirked. "I'm rubbing it in with salt."
Ashner sighed.
"If we can get more, I want to take it to the lab. If I can somehow replicate it, imagine how far medicine can advance." Wong's eyes lit up. "Imagine the possibilities."
"It's a magical drink. Do you think you can recreate it?"
"I don't know. But I'm willing to try."
"We'd have to destroy another dungeon," Ashner warned Wong.
"I know, but the locals say dungeons have different threat levels. If we can destroy a weaker one it'll be worth the risk."
Gio walked towards the other two. "Hangover medicine." He muttered.
Wong got a white powder and poured it into Gio's canteen, then he shook it.
"What would I do without you?" Gio smiled.
"You'd deal with that hangover."
"I'd rather die," Gio whined.
Spin?
"Oh, it's my weekly spin." Ashner smiled.
Both Gio and Wong gave him an eyebrow raise.
"What? They're fun, and I never know what I'll get." Ashner tapped his screen. "Spin."
"It's just weird," Wong admitted. "You call it a menu, but all we see is you talking to yourself and poking your finger randomly in the air."
(Ultra Rare) – Cost Remover.
Level – Max – Remove the XP cost of three obtained share skills that do not exceed 100XP per person.
"That's good." Ashner smiled, and Gio and Wong glanced at each other.
"Menu, show me my options."
The menu shook.
Radiation Resistance – 30XP Per Person – Can be reduced to 0XP Per Person.
Language Proficiency – 30XP Per Person – Can be reduced to 0XP Per Person.
Show stats – 10XP Per Person – Can be reduced to 0XP Per Person.
"Sure, use it."
Radiation Resistance – 30XP > 0XP Per Person
Language Proficiency – 30XP > 0XP Per Person
Show stats – 10XP > 0XP Per Person
"What just happened?" Gio asked. "What power did you get?"
"This power reduced the amount of XP required for a demi to enter my world. Instead of it being 170, it's now just 100 XP."
"Wow." Gio chugged his medicine. "It's almost like the author got tired of doing math and wanted to simplify it."
"The what now?"
"Nothing." Gio finished his drink and walked away. "I'm too hungover to think straight."
Rolo walked towards the two men. With a massive smile and without a hint of a hangover. "My new friends."
"Good morning." Ashner was still drowsy. "We're going to head out soon."
"I spoke to my people, and they agreed, it's time for us to leave this mountain… At least until we can find a way to push back slavers and the Dead God's influence… It's going to be a long and dangerous road, so my people are hesitant to leave."
"About that." Ashner held up his golden key. "I know a way to transport all of you safely."
"You have my attention." Rolo smiled.
*******
XP:125 > XP:1500
The group drove back to Sanctuary. Luna had a hard time keeping her eyes on Ashner during the entire trip, and Risa opted to stay in the White Room with Naomie for the whole ride. Rolo rode with the group, and the guys spoiled him with different types of rums, beers, and whiskeys.
When they parked their Stryker next to the fields in Sanctuary. Ashner, Gio, and Wong knelt down. The vegetables were overflowing, and the fruit plants had grown a little taller than the guys.
"I miss apples," Gio admitted.
"I want oranges," Wong whined.
"At least they're growing." Ashner and the guys smiled. "I can't believe we've done this much."
"We need more seeds." Wong glanced at the bunnies. Most of them waved at the group, and some savored their lips at the sight of Wong. He was desirable, not just because he was hot, but because all the girls wanted to know why Violet was so dedicated to him.
Risa walked by the group. She was eating grapes. The cat hesitantly handed some to Ashner. Her eyes were bashful as she recalled what she had done on his bed.
"Oh, I haven't given you your gift yet." Ashner gobbled up a few grapes and handed them to Wong and Gio. The three of them had forgotten the sweet taste and how they popped in their mouths.
"Gift?" Risa's mind relived the moment Luna had kissed her. Her tail went straight up, and her heart raced.
"Yes, for helping me destroy the dungeon." Ashner's words grounded her back to reality. "Is there a power you want?"
"Oh." Admittedly, Risa was both relieved and disappointed. She grew her fingernails. They were as sharp as knives. "You've given me a lot so far."
"Yes, but we might have to fight stronger monsters, so I'd like you to be prepared. Plus, you've earned it."
"Well… It's not that I don't appreciate the extra mana you've given me, but my body is struggling to keep balance and fight alongside it." Risa tapped her nails together. "And my swordsmanship isn't where I want it to be…"
I see, so her power is like Alex's. It requires balance. Alright, Menu, buy Sure Foot level three.
XP:1500 > XP:500
Sure-Foot – Level 2 > 3
Risa sensed it in her body. It shifted and tuned with her mana.
Her other skills could use a boost, too. Menu, show me her stats.
Risa's Powers
Demi-Cat
Cat Eyes – Level 1
Enhanced Hearing – Level 2
Sure-Foot – Level 3
Wind Magic – Level 3
Subclass Skills
Balanced Steps – Level 1
Claw Strike – Level 1
Eavesdrop – Level 1
Glide – Level 0
Night Vision – Level 1
Quiet Steps – Level 2
Remove Scent – Level 1
Redirect Projectiles – Level 0
Wind Boost – Level 2
Wind Shield – Level 0
Wind Slash – Level 2
Alright, menu, buy these.
XP:500 > XP:225
Balanced Steps – Level 1 > 3
Eavesdrop – Level 1 > 2
Glide – Level 0 > 3
Quiet Steps – Level 2 > 3
Wind Boost – Level 2 > 3
Wind Slash – Level 2 > 3
Risa sensed the shift in her body. Her power increased along with her natural abilities.
Now for her swordsmanship. Level up as much as possible.
The menu bounced.
Learned skills will not exceed Racial Skills.
XP:225 > XP:175
Subclass
Swordsmanship – Level 1 > 3
That's enough for now.
"I increased a power you have called Glide."
"Glide?" Risa lifted a single ear. "That's a skill that allows me to use my wind magic to fall to the ground softly. It also lets me fly, but it's really slow."
Risa used her mana, and as she claimed, her body started floating up until she was face-to-face with Ashner. She smiled. "Thank you, Master."
"I'd give you more, but I don't want to burn the last of my XP." Ashner was curious what Wind Shield was capable of, but Risa floating around like she was in space, with a big grin, made him smile.
*******
Rolo bowed to Ari, and Ashner was required to attend the meeting once more. Violet and Luna were also in attendance.
"I welcome you and your kin to Sanctuary. We offer you our food, our milk, and shelter." Ari spoke formally.
"The red beard dwarves will do our part." Rolo stood confidently. "We will repair these halls and the homes that lay in ruins. In time, we will create a kingdom where all demi's can live in peace."
"If you require materials, speak to Ashner. He's reliable and has my highest level of support." Ari extended her hand towards Ashner with a gentle smile.
"If you excuse me." Rolo made his way to Ashner. As he did, the audience dispersed. "Sir, Ashner."
"What is it, my friend?"
"Dwarf magic is phenomenal when it comes to stone and steel work, but we still lack the materials to rebuild this kingdom. We can create the stones, but we can't fix it without crushed mortar. We can burn limestone, and then we'll mix the items together."
He's using a primitive style of stonework.
"Crushed mortar…" Ashner tapped his mask. "What if I bring something better? Something that's stronger."
The dwarf's eyes twinkled. "Is there such a thing?"
"Yes, my world has something called concrete, and it's something we've been perfecting for hundreds of years…"
"Please do it, and about your alcoholic drinks." Rolo smiled like a college student who was ready for a night to get wasted.
"I'll bring plenty."
*******
XP:175 > XP:1175
They're still hunting down monsters. I should find a way to reward the demi's who are giving me XP.
Ashner, Gio, Wong, Risa, and Luna readied themselves to return to Earth. The dwarfs had started working in the castle, but they had also started eating, and they ate a lot. Luckily, the bunnies were experts in their fields.
The people of Sanctuary were happy. They had plenty of food and tasks to keep them busy. They had even gone as far as to collect gold for Ashner. The kingdom was enormous, but the locals stayed close to the castle.
"Let's go. Alex has been on his own for a while now." Ashner and the group emerged at the gold factory. The coins had all been smelted. Ashner dumped the gold bags the demi's had given him, and they ventured into the world until they arrived at the floating city.
"Welcome." Alex bowed his head. He was wearing a dark blue business suit. It was tailored neatly, and his hair had been cut. On top of that, his skin was clearer. "I'm happy to see you all."
It appears the CEOs went out of their way to groom him.
"What do you have to report to me?" Ashner asked as one of the human attendants placed a gel over the C-R on his hands, hiding the stigma.
"I sold all the gold we accumulated, and our company is officially in the top 1000 wealthiest in America." Alex smiled. "We've also made partnerships with a dozen or so smaller companies. Our gold is becoming the bloodline for new technologies and has sparked a movement for a new floating city."
Next to Alex were the demi's he had chosen to help him. Twila was one of them.
Ashner put his hand on Alex's shoulder. "Well done… I'm proud of you."
Alex's tail wagged happily.
"For your next task, find a way to obtain cows, ducks, pigs, basically any animal that we can eat. Make sure to get a handful of males and females." As Ashner spoke, Alex used one of his drones to record his words. "We also need concrete, steel, windows, anything and everything to build homes."
"Of course." Alex led the group. As he did, his assistants dispersed, and the group glanced out the massive building they were in. Below was a city of metal that floated in the sky. Millions of people were working around the clock to maintain the new norm of society. "I've talked to the CEO, and they've been asking for a meeting with you, Ashner."
Alex's voice was a bit hesitant. "You may be upset... Just know if you are, please put the blame on me." Alex insisted.
"What are you saying?" The group entered a room, the doors locked behind them and, the lights dimmed, and the cameras inside turned off.
This room is designed to keep secrets from leaking.
The five CEOs he had convinced to help him each sat on a seat. The five of them wore the latest fashion and, as always, were breathtaking.
"Hello, Ashner." The redhead, once again, spoke for the group. She, like the others, wore a dress that highlighted her body. She had a top that showed off her under-boobs. She was the CEO of Monarch. Monica was her name. "It's been a while."
"Yes, it has." Ashner glanced at the walls and cameras. "Why go this far to have a conversation."
"That's because we learned a secret." The blonde spoke. She was the CEO of Hipper Inc. She had a smaller and slimmer body with a rebellious face. Her name was Hannah. "A secret that you intended to keep from us."
Ashner glanced at Alex, who held his head low. His tail had stopped wagging, and his ears had dropped.
"Actually." Alex's voice shook in fear. "I told them the truth."
What truth?
"He told us, and everything started falling in place." The shortest of the CEOs was a petite Asian woman with black silky hair. She was shy and didn't demand as much respect with her voice. She was the CEO of Yuugure Inc. Her name was Mikan. "So we're here to confirm it with you."
Ashner glanced at the other two women.
A blonde with long hair and a brunette with deep brown eyes.
"Ask away. If Alex trusted you with something, then I'll trust his insight."
"Eden." The blonde with long hair spoke. Ashner recognized her. She was the CEO of Cleveland. Her name was Chloe. Her company created floating cars and solar-powered items. "A world only you can pass between… A world untouched by radiation, but it's infested with monsters and magic."
Alex, you told them everything… You must really trust these women…
Risa reached for her sword, and Wong and Gio readied themselves for a fight. They weren't carrying their guns, but they both had plastic knives that didn't set off any metal detectors and were easy to pass through robotic security.
"Yes, it's true." Ashner fessed up. "It's also the place where I gather gold."
"That changes everything." The brunette moved a strand of hair behind her ears. Her brown eyes contrasted beautifully against her pale skin. "It also explains why we can see your friend's ears…"
The brunette was the CEO of Glasgow Inc. She wore an expensive business suit. Her name was Grace.
"You have elven ears." Grace pointed at Luna and then at Risa. "And you have cat ears and a tail… It appears once someone learns the truth, the spell breaks, and we can see demi's for who they really are."
The girls glanced at Ashner. They weren't sure what to do.
"What will you do with this information?" Ashner raised his head high.
"We aren't threatening you." Monica walked toward Alex and hugged him from behind. Her alluring body made the short man blush. "You see, the five of us adore Alex, and he adores you…"
"That's right." Chloe pouted at Monica. She wanted to cuddle Alex, too. "All five of us were suspicious of you. Even if we made a deal without knowing all the details, we were bound for some level of failure… We wanted to investigate, but Alex confessed the truth to all of us, and now we want to help you."
"Help me?" Ashner relaxed, and so did his comrades.
"Yes. You see, everything in this world has a price. That includes secrets." Hannah spoke and crossed her legs. "We have all profited in the billions in a manner of months. This will attract unwanted attention from other companies. So a bribe here, a threat there, a summer home here, and a bombed car there… And we have a balance that will raise us above our competitors and keep us safe."
"I wasn't aware that's how things worked." Ashner had imagined it, but the women were openly admitting to crimes.
"Alex is learning." Monica kissed his cheek. Her large red lips were soft. "In fact, he told us all on the condition that we continue to protect you and your interests. He may not seem it, but he's a cutthroat in business practices… He's managed to fend off competitors and catch spies from other companies… So we're asking you for a new deal."
"What kind of deal?"
"Food," Mikan spoke meekly.
"Food?" Ashner raised an eyebrow. "But the floating cities have plenty of food."
"That's a lie the government spreads…" Monica spoke up again. "The truth is, the war wounded our world, it left it bleeding, and it won't heal, it'll die. Vegetables and fruits are not growing as fast anymore. Animals are doing okay. We're growing them in ideal environments. But they require food, which the world is losing at an alarming rate… The floating cities have kept this a secret because we don't want mass hysteria."
"How bad is the situation?"
"Only the top three companies have stockpiled enough food for the next five years. The rest of us have a year left."
Alex figured this out… He made the decision to trust them… I honestly wouldn't have risked it… But these women… They're still willing to help us… Good call, Alex…
"Well, fuck." Gio glanced around, and Wong rubbed his forehead. "It's not every day we get told it's the end of the world."
"We can't rely on Eden to feed millions of people." Ashner shook his head.
"We're aware." Monica sat down, and Alex walked towards Ashner. "Alex gave us a few suggestions, and we're trying everything we can… But if the worst were to happen… We want your guarantee that you'll save us and all our employees… All ten thousand of them."
"Ten thousand…" Ashner grasped something else. "What about the rest of the people on this planet?"
"They'll die… If the worst happens, we'll have to abandon this planet… Then we'll have to find a way to deal with the Dead God in Eden… Either way, we're damned if we do, damned if we don't." Monica was cold with her words, but she was ready to sacrifice millions if it meant saving thousands. A cruel fate Ashner didn't want to experience.
"We'll figure it out." Ashner sighed heavily. "I want to find a way to save both worlds…"
"You're the only one who can." Monica and the rest of the women smiled. "You may not realize it, but you simply trying holds more possibilities than us withering away."
Ashner glanced at Alex, who was shaking.
"Why are you shaking?" Ashner asked plainly.
"I don't want you to abandon me."
Ashner leaned in and tapped Alex's head. "Don't be stupid."
Alex smiled brightly, and the CEOs stood up.
"Eden and its possibilities will remain a secret that won't leave this room," Monica announced proudly, and the cameras turned back on when she tapped on her phone. "Alex asked for something else, and it's prepared for you."
The girls led the group to the top of the building. A place reserved only for the wealthiest. It was lined with state-of-the-art floating cars. And a few limos.
"Alex arranged everything for today."
The CEOs studied Ashner. He was wearing a gray and white flannel along with cargo pants and dirty boots. Wong wore a clean button-up shirt and dress pants. Gio wore a muscle shirt that had torn and dirty jeans. Luna wore a white and green dress with a leather shirt that held her chest in place. Her outfit was the most elegant, and Risa wore tight jeans and a basic v-taper shirt.
"I fear our work is cut out for us." Hannah sighed. "Alex asked us to buy you a wardrobe worthy of our world's high society."
"Not just that." Monica had one of her humanoid robots who followed them open up a suitcase. Inside it was a mask. "I understand why you wear a mask, but you've only worn plastic ones. It's time to change your look."
Monica opened the suitcase, and inside it was a mask. It was designed to grab onto Ashner's face. It was pitch black and didn't have a slit for a mouth or eyes, but this one curved like an egg. Ashner turned his face away from the group and put his new mask on.
The inside of the mask was partly a heads-up display. It scanned everything around him. A square cube pointed at the robotic butler's legs. Indicating that they were armed. Ashner's field of view was better than the slits his plastic masks had.
Ashner turned towards his friends. "How does it look?" As he spoke, the mask recreated his facial features. Just the basics, from his eyes to his mouth moving and his eyebrows. It didn't highlight his face, just his expressions.
Risa and Luna smiled brightly. And Alex held his head up high.
"Alex paid for that mask using his own money." Monica glanced at her boy toy. "Of course, he's aware that we want to spoil him, but in this case, he insisted."
"This mask, I've never seen anything like it." Ashner palmed the part where it connected to his face. It was holding on with a gel-like substance. "It's not uncomfortable at all."
"It's one of a kind. It has a heads-up display inside the mask, and outside, it lights up so people can see your emotions, more or less. It's also designed to take a few bullets, slides open in case you need to eat, has anti-emp technology, and uses micro solar panels and the heat of your breath to keep it powered." Hannah explained with a proud smirk. "My company specializes in creating heads-up displays for soldiers… Are you happy? Alex?"
Hannah tilted her head towards the shorter man. As she did, her hair flowed with the wind, and her eyes lit up brightly like she was expecting a treat from him.
"I'm happy." Alex smiled, and this made the other women a little disappointed in themselves. Alex had chosen who he will sleep with that night. As powerful and wealthy as they were, the women enjoyed the little competitions they had with each other to get Alex's approval. They even joined in when Alex slept with his guards. Granted, not all of them slept with him.
Frayia, an elf. She was more interested in technology and even started developing her own alongside Hipper and Glasgow Inc. Had she not been someone Alex brought along, the CEOs would've snatched her up as one of their employees. Twila kept her distance from the group and often disappeared for days at a time. She only spoke to Alex, and he sent her out randomly. The CEOs had no clue where and why, but in the end, it didn't matter to them.
"Before we head out, as a show of good faith to our new partnership… Ashner, please pick whichever floating car you want." Grace extended her hand out.
Ashner took in the sight of six dozen cars parked. All of them were brand new, and they all had robotic butlers. Ashner recalled how badly he wanted a floating car… And now the option was at his fingertips. He studied them all, passing by them. As he did, Risa, Luna, and Alex followed behind them.
"You two, choose whatever you want." Grace gave the same honor to Wong and Gio. "From what Alex told me, you're like his big brothers."
"Oh yeah!" Gio ran across the roof, glancing at all the cars. Wong, on the other hand, took his time, pausing in front of the ones he liked.
"This one." Ashner stopped in front of a replica of a sports car.
"That's a replica of a Lamborghini Aventador SVJ." Chloe glanced at Ashner. "A popular sports car, before the car company collapsed."
"It's not very spacious, but I like it." Ashner's finger grazed the sports car, and its wheels were replaced with anti-gravity technology. Instead of tires, it sat on top of hard rubber. "I'll take it."
Chloe tapped on her phone, and the drone handed Ashner a thick car key. Ashner dabbled with it and observed that the key had a color wheel. Ashner spun it, and as he did, the colors of the car changed from red to orange to yellow, green, blue, and black. He continued messing with the settings and found military camo. Some designs were blue with bubbles. Others were flames. It even had the option of adding his own art to the car. Ashner settled on a dark blue color.
Wong settled with a Toyota GR Supra replica. He didn't care too much about cars, but he wasn't going to reject a free one.
Gio chose a Nissan Skyline R34. He smiled brightly and shifted its colors to gray. It had two blue racing stripes on its hood and two dashed lines running across its side. The spoiler was blue, matching the stripes.
"Interesting choice." Mikan hesitated with her words.
"Thank you. I got the idea from a movie franchise that started with racing and then turned into a live-action anime."
"Now that we have that out of the way." Monica extended her hand at a large limo. "Allow us to take you to the best stores money can buy."
*******
{[High society holds its own set of rules, standards, and morality. And it's often more lenient toward bad behavior. Money creates laws and shifts justice. A truth that still holds to this day.]}
Ashner and the group walked through a mall of sorts. It was on top of a skyscraper, which was only accessible from the roof. According to the CEO, this place had a hefty yearly fee. But in return, it had access to the latest brands and technology.
"Wow, an elf?" Luna and Risa walked towards a store called 'Almost Human', which had androids moving slightly on display. Some had elf ears, others had cat ears, and one even had angel wings.
"They look real, but they're not." Hannah and Mikan followed the curious girls. "These are state-of-the-art humanoid robots. They're designed to serve their owners in any way they desire. This company likes to give variety, and they created elves and cat girls."
"What do they do?" Risa asked, but Hannah pushed her and Luna into the store. As soon as they entered, holograms greeted the girls. It wasn't just females. They also had male robots. And all of them were breathtaking. Some holograms were cooking, others were washing cars, and some were caring for toddlers.
"They do anything you ask… And I mean anything…"
"Anything?" Risa walked into a room with a black blanket covering the entrance. Moans echoed loudly from within. Risa hissed and dashed out with her face burning red.
"Yes, even that." Hannah laughed out loud.
Luna took a peek and glanced back at Risa, a part of her presumed that Risa was overreacting, but the size of the android's junk was unnatural, and some had tentacle-like cocks.
"But they're not real." Risa shook her head, her ears slit back. "They can't give you children."
"They can't, but some people just enjoy the pleasure of sex, and this company provides for its clients." Hannah had her own humanoid androids, but they didn't compare to Alex. Since she slept with him, she had her butlers do just daily chores around her home. She glanced at Risa and Luna. Their nipples poked through their thin clothes. "Can I ask you both a question?"
"Ask," Luna replied gracefully.
"What kind of underwear do you two wear?"
"I don't wear any," Luna admitted, and Risa lifted her shirt. She wore something similar to a thin sports bra, except it was worn out and not cute in any way.
"You two… Your world needs a cruel reality check." Hannah was disappointed, but Mikan's eyes lit up. She got a glance at Risa's slim tummy, and now she was inspired to dress her up. "Come with us."
The girls passed by Ashner and the guys. They were in an electronics store.
Mikan led the girls into a new store with the words 'Lust' written in red and black. As they entered. A floating robotic ball scanned Risa and Luna's bodies. Getting their measurements.
Both demi's eyes widened as they were presented with hundreds of elaborate underwear.
"This one, this one, this one!" Mikan's eyes were filled with passion as she chose out matching pairs. "Their hair color and their ears make it much funner to pick out outfits."
"What's happening?" Risa's ears folded down as Hannah put the girls in a dressing room.
"You two need to be educated. Both of you are beautiful, and you're wearing rags." Hannah pointed at Risa, then at Luna.
"And you have nothing, doesn't your chest hurt?"
"It hurts sometimes, but my leather top helps it a little," Luna replied, unsure why she was also getting lectured.
Hannah clapped her hands. "Both of you, strip."
"Yes!" Both the girls immediately submitted and removed their clothes.
Mikan happily jumped up and down, excited to dress the two beauties.
Sure enough, Luna wore nothing underneath her dress and just a thin white shirt. Her bust and butt were large, but her stomach was slim, too slim for the size of her proportions. "Why don't you wear underwear? It's beneficial."
"I don't see the point."
"Some people's kids." Hannah shook her head. Next, she focused her attention on Risa, who took off her shirt and pants. Instead of panties, she had something similar to boxers.
"Men's underwear?" Hannah crossed her arms. "Really?"
Risa's ears slit back. "They belonged to my brother, and they fit, so I wear them… Is there a difference?"
"Yes, theirs a difference!" Hannah understood that she was dealing with women who didn't adorn their beauty. The blonde grabbed Risa's worn-out underwear and, with a quick tug, tore them off her body. The fabric was worn out, and it took almost no effort.
Risa's face turned bright red, and she covered her chest with one hand and her kitty with the other.
"And that…" Hannah pointed at the girls. They both had bushes. "Has to go."
In a second, the floating ball droids quickly removed their hair with a laser and applied a clear oil.
"That oil prevents hair growth for up to a year." The droids gently lifted the girl's arms and removed their hair. Next, it focused on their arms and legs. When they were done, both girls caressed their skin, both satisfied with their bodies. "Now you're both diamonds in the rough, but each gem needs to be decorated, Mikan!"
The short Asian woman quickly put a bra on Luna. Her oversized chest was lifted up. But her boobs still shook with her chest's weight. Next, Mikan put a pair of underwear on her. It was green and white, lacy with white flowers. Her bra also had flowers and matched her underwear. She also gave her a collar with a flower to match.
As for Risa, she gave her a black sports bra, one that revealed the center of her chest. Her slave crest was in view. The center of her bra was shaped like a simple cat's head, with pink outlining the head and its whiskers. The top and bottom of the sports bra tightened and held neatly against her slim frame.
Next came her underwear. Panties that tied on her hips with a thin strand. And the part that covered her goods was shaped like a kitten. Then Mikan put a black collar with a pink bell on Risa's neck.
Risa's face burned red, and Luna smiled proudly.
"I like these." Luna glanced at Mikan. "Please get me more."
"These are pointless…" Risa complained. "It's embarrassing… And they're not practical in combat. This lace will come undone, and I'll lose my underwear."
"Combat?" Mikan and Hannah tilted their head to their sides. "We'll give you more comfortable underwear, too, but these pairs are for seducing Ashner."
"What?" Risa glanced to her side, obviously caught. She curled her hair on her fingertip. "I don't think this underwear would work… Ashner has seen me naked anyway, and that's more appealing than this."
Luna smiled blissfully.
Both human women glanced at each other and nodded at one another. Hannah stepped out momentarily as Mikan gave them the gel that removed hair. Luna suggested buying it in bulk since it would be extremely popular in her world.
"What are you doing?" Ashner's voice was clearer now with his new mask. It didn't have a mouthpiece, but it was better than the plastic slit he had before.
"I need your opinion on something." Hannah pushed Ashner. He went through the curtains and glanced up. His eyes landed on Risa and Luna. "Which one of them looks better?"
Risa's face burned red. She was the first one Ashner focused on. Her shy reaction and her underwear made his heart race. She covered her body and knelt down. "Don't look!"
Ashner turned towards Luna, who put her hand on her hip. Her chest shook with her movements. She smirked. "Master… Are you being naughty?"
HOLY SHIT!
"I…" Ashner's face showed a digital blush. "I shouldn't be here!"
Ashner turned tail and jogged out the main entrance. As he did, both Hannah and Mikan laughed loudly.
"Why did you do that!" Risa hissed.
"For this… Android." Hannah focused on the floating ball. "Did you detect a testosterone boost from the man who accidentally entered this room?"
"Significant testosterone boost was detected. Heart rate spiked, and his face temperature rose… The man who left this room did so with an erection… Should I inform security?"
"No." Hannah laughed. "It was an accident."
Risa nudged her nose into her knees, but she smiled. Luna gave Hannah a devious smile. "I like you." Hannah nodded at Luna. The two girls grasped each other's personalities, and from then on, they occasionally hung out.
"I…" Risa stood. "I'd like more underwear."
"Now we can have fun." Mikan smiled.
*******
Ashner stopped running next to a store that allows you to build your own stuffed bear.
What was that? Those two got hotter… And fuck… I should not be this hard next to a build-a-bear…
"Ashner!" Alex was walking with Twila. Behind them were humanoid droids carrying their shopping bags. "Are you okay? Why were you running?"
"I saw something a little too stimulating for me…" Ashner glanced back at Lust. Twila took note of the store and concluded she needed to investigate it later. "Where are the CEOs?"
"They're fighting over what type of pajamas to buy me." Alex smiled. "This usually takes thirty or so minutes."
"You're too popular." Ashner rubbed the back of his head. Then he glanced at the half-elf. "Hey there, Twila, how are you adapting to Earth?"
The half-elf stood at attention. "I'm honored you remembered my name, sir… And thanks to Alex, I've been adapting well… If there's anything you need, just ask me…"
She's nervous, like she's talking to a boss she doesn't want to disappoint.
"You don't need to get stiff." Ashner put his hand on her shoulder. "Just talk normally to me. I won't kick you out of this world and send you home if you don't want it. And, of course, I remember your name. You fought alongside me. In fact."
Ashner took both of them to a food stand and ordered them both a frappe. Twila was admittedly uncomfortable, but not for the reasons Ashner presumed. "This is a small treat to thank you both." Ashner didn't order anything for himself.
"Master?" Alex took a few bites but then grasped that Ashner had no food. "Won't you order anything for yourself?"
"No." Ashner was carrying a bag. He had bought some ointments for his face. Some that Wong had recommended. He assured Ashner that the medicine was going to help with the pain his blisters brought. "If I show my face, it'll make people around us uncomfortable."
"Who cares what they think," Twila spoke so low Ashner missed her words.
Ashner put his old mask on the table. It was white and made of plastic. "I don't need this anymore." Ashner glanced at a trash can. It was empty with a black bag over it. He tossed his mask in it, and then he stretched his arms. He hadn't been in a place like this since he was a teenager. He smiled, and it showed on his new mask.
In the distance, three beautiful CEOs stepped out of a store with multiple outfits. "Here they come." Ashner tilted his head, and Alex grasped that it was his job to entertain the women.
"I'll tend to them." Alex nodded, and Ashner stood up and left to find Gio and Wong.
After he was ten feet away, Twila exhaled slowly. "It's so nerve-wracking being so close to him… How do you handle it?"
"I'm used to him." Alex finished the last of his food. "And about the place I order you to investigate?"
Twila handed him a black folder. "I found what you requested."
"Did anyone see you?" Alex raised his eyebrow.
"Of course not… But I am limited with my mana. I can hide in the shadows, but at my current level, I can only be this useful… I'm just happy to serve him and you."
"Serve him, not me." Alex tilted his head towards the half-elf. "We are allies, and he is our Master… I may be the first he chose, but he accepted you…"
Alex glanced at the folder and smiled. "This is exactly what I wanted…" As he spoke, Twila grabbed the mask out of the garbage.
"Why do you want that?"
"It's… A piece of him…" Twila caressed the mask…
"I'll talk to Ashner and recommend that he increases your power… You've gathered all the information I've requested… I'll also get you more of his old masks…"
"Thank you, sir!" Twila bowed her head.
"I can't guarantee Ashner will do it… But I admit, I need you and your skills for my plan to work." Alex glanced at the women walking towards them. He handed Twila money. "Buy things for yourself, or else they'll get suspicious."
"As you command." Twila took the money and stepped away. As she did, the CEOs sat next to Alex and started happily showing off the new clothes they had gotten him.
*******
"You are easy to work with." Grace was ecstatic that Wong wore the outfit she picked out for him. She had bought most of his outfits, but she insisted he wear this one. It was an exquisite black suit made with the finest wool known to man. It was lined along the inside and had a welded breast pocket and two straight pockets on the sides with flaps. His button-up shirt was white, with dark blue designs matching its black tie. "Dark colors compliment you."
Wong glanced at himself in the mirror. He smiled. "I… Don't hate it…"
"It's my pleasure." Grace glanced at her friend, who was having a more challenging time.
Gio wasn't a fan of fancy outfits, but he finally broke and wore an Italian cashmere-blended suit. It had a classic style with white buttons. He refused to wear a tie but did have a crisp white dress shirt underneath it. Chloe was exhausted, but she fulfilled her mission.
As for Ashner.
Monica opted to get him black dress pants with a black overcoat that went over a dark green zipper hoodie.
"It's not as elegant as the others," Ashner admitted.
"Your mask, advanced as it is… Sadly, it doesn't fit well with suits." Monica admitted. "Maybe if we can fix your face."
"As of now, that's impossible," Wong spoke up. "I'm sorry, Ashner. I've tried a lot of things, but it's beyond my level."
"That's fine." Ashner was bummed out, but he didn't hate his new style. It was easy to move in, and it fit with his mask. If he wanted, he would hide his head with the hoodie, only leaving his mask exposed. "I love this style."
"I want his clothes," Gio complained and pointed at Ashner.
"SERIOUSLY!" Chloe threw a fit, and Gio dashed a few feet away from her.
And so the boys learned about fashion and accepted their new high-class style while they were on Earth.
*******
"This one too." Gio had a small treasure trove of jewelry, clothing, electronics, pottery, and expensive make-up and brushes. He pointed at a rose. They had all been wiped out during the war, but some survived and were encased in a thin layer of resin. They were rare on Earth. This one's leaves were adorned with emeralds, and its pedals had rubies. "Ari will love it."
"Isn't this too much stuff?" Wong had finished shopping. He was well dressed and chose the best fashion for his muscular build. He had a few women stop to ask for his number, but he rejected them all. He even made one cry, but he didn't care. Instead, he rolled his eyes and walked away.
"Nah, Ari is a queen. I need to show her that I'll give her the world." Gio was smiling brightly. "Ashner pays us, and I've never had this much money in my life before… I wanna spoil her…"
"If you say so, how about after this, we go check out gym equipment? We don't have any in Eden, and after that potion. I need to keep myself in tip-top shape."
"Yeah." Gio smiled brightly as his droids took all his things and started slowly lifting them toward the limo.
"Gio?" A tone from the past brought a shiver down his spine. His body froze, and his neck became stiff. "I don't believe it, it's really you."
Wong's eyes widened, and then he glared and bared his fangs.
Ashner stepped into the jewelry store just as Gio turned his head.
Oh no…
"Robyn?" Gio's ex-wife stood in front of him. In his eyes. Her beauty hadn't faded. She was youthful. Her eyes were bright and blue, and her body was thick and luscious.
"I'm glad you're out of your coma." Robyn smiled. Next to her was a humanoid butler. It was pushing a cart with a baby in it.
Gio's heart shattered into a billion pieces. His hands started to sweat, and he fought hard not to cry.
"Who is that?" Every word forced all the air out of Gio's lungs.
"Oh, this is Roxy…" Robyn smiled. "She's my baby."
Her words stomped on the remains of his heart. Gio's eyes became cold and distant.
"We need to catch up." She held up her phone. "You should give me your number."
Gio subconsciously lifted his phone up, and as soon as the two electronics bumped, they exchanged information. Gio never once moved his eyes away from the baby girl. He wanted to hate the baby, but he couldn't.
"I tried visiting you, but."
"Liar." Wong glared at the woman. "I was his doctor, and you never once tried visiting him."
Gio's mind was gone, far into space.
"I did try." Robyn insisted. "But his body was moved from the floating city, and some irresponsible doctor brought him down to the surface… I wasn't going to risk my health… The surface is filled with radiation."
"He was on the floating city for-"
Gio lifted his hand at Wong. "Please, stop." Wong bit his tongue. He wanted to cuss out Robyn. She deserved it, but Gio's eyes painted another picture. He didn't want a fight.
"How have you been, Gio?" Robyn asked with a smile.
"I've been okay. I'm currently working hard and improving my life." Gio forced a smile. His words lacked passion, but Robyn didn't grasp it. "What about you?"
"Well…" She held her hand up, and a big wedding ring shined. "I got married."
Gio wanted to cry. He wanted to scream. But he held it all inside.
Robyn's phone started buzzing. She read the message really quickly. "My hubby wants me to go home. Sorry to cut this short, but I need to leave."
"I understand." Gio's words were empty. Wong held his rage back.
"Take care." She waved at him. Her wrist had jewelry worth millions of dollars, and she was dressed in a trendy dress. By no means was she poor. "Let's have dinner sometime."
"Yeah…" Gio leered at her until she got out of sight.
"Gio." Wong and Ashner both said his name at the same time.
"Hey, let's check out that gym now." Gio led the way. He walked directly into the store. The soldier went to the nearest punching back. The store clerk was next to it.
"Can I help you?" The man smiled.
"Yes, I want to test out this punching bag, can I?"
"Of course." He took a step back, and Gio took a swing.
The bag shook with his blow. The man took another step back as Gio punched the bag again and again. Each time, the metal holding it up shook. The bag was heavy, but against Gio's powerful blows, the bag swung wildly.
"Sir?"
Ashner stopped the man.
"Here's a thousand dollars. Please leave us alone for a little while. I'll buy the bag, too."
The man glanced at Gio, who started adding kicks into the barrage. But not being one to turn down money, he nodded and left for a smoke break.
Wong and Ashner stood behind their friend. A man who always had a smile on his face and was kind to a fault. They stood in silence as Gio unleashed his rage.
The blows started tearing the leather bag. Sand started pouring out with each punch.
Gio gasped heavily, his face dripping with sweat. He punched the bag for over fifteen minutes without any signs of fatigue.
Wong and Gio held their heads up high, prepared for anything.
"WHY!" Gio gritted his teeth. "WHY DO I FEEL THIS WAY!"
Ashner and Wong stood silently.
"I KNOW SHE NEVER LOVED ME! I KNOW THAT SHE SLEPT AROUND A LOT, BUT WHY!" Gio punched the bag over and over. "WHY DOES SHE HAVE A CHILD! WHY IS SHE MARRIED!"
Gio punched the bag so hard it tore off its mount and flew across the room. As it landed, the sand inside it spilled on the floor. Gio's fists were bleeding.
"SHE'S LIVING THE LIFE I WANTED TO HAVE WITH HER! I THOUGHT THIS WHOLE TIME SHE DIDN'T WANT IT! THAT HELPED ME GET THROUGH IT! BUT I WAS WRONG! WHY DOES THIS HURT MORE THAN THE CHEATING! AND WHY AM I SO FUCKING JEALOUS! OH, MAN! WHY AM I SO ANGRY AT A CHILD THAT ISN'T MINE! THE KID IS INNOCENT BUT I'M STILL SO PISSED OFF!" Gio's eyes started watering. "I COULD'VE HAD THAT! I COULD'VE HAD THE PERFECT LIFE WITH HER! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! WHAT THE FUCK IS WRONG WITH ME! WHY AM I A MESS! I DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY SHE STILL HAS SO MUCH SWAY OVER ME! WHY DOES MY HEART CONTROL MY MIND SO MUCH!" Gio inhaled and spoke softly. "And why… Why do I still love her?"
"Gio," Ashner spoke. "Don't talk to her, block her."
"Yes, she was lying…" Wong spoke this time, taking a step towards Gio. "She didn't visit you when you were in the floating city, she didn't even try when you were on the surface either, she's lying, and she's bragging about her new life to you… Fuck her… She's not worth your time…"
"I don't know what to do." Gio had a lot of energy, and he had burned through most of it. His fists were bleeding, and his arms and hips were sore from the blows. "A part of me wants to show her that I'm doing better… But I'm not… Not really… I like Ari, but we're not dating, and sure, we have money, but she does too… I'm sorry, I didn't mean to lash out."
"Better that punching bag than a human being." Ashner sighed and glanced back at the entrance, where the employee stood in shock. He just got back from his smoke break.
"I honestly thought I was over her," Gio admitted as Wong reached into his cargo pocket and put ointment on Gio's fists. "But seeing her again, seeing how she changed into what I imagined our lives would be like… I feel like she left me behind in more than one way… A part of me wanted karma to get her back for what she did to me… But instead, she's doing okay with her life… Fuck… This isn't me… I don't want her to suffer… Cause it won't bring me any happiness… Guys… What do I do?"
"You ignore her and focus on our current tasks," Wong advised as he finished bandaging up Gio's fists.
"He's right." Ashner agreed. "We've already advanced so far with our merits. In this world, we're wealthy, and in Eden, we're creating a home for demi's that pay us in gold… Don't let her accomplishments hinder your own… Cause if you can't recognize the good you've done, then you'll never appreciate the lives you've changed for the better."
"I suppose… I'm ready to leave now…" Gio walked out with his head low.
*******
The limo carried the group in the opposite direction from Monarch's main building.
"Where are we going?" Wong asked as he glanced out the window.
Alex smiled. "It's a place we can call our own."
The limo landed on the edge of a mansion. It was glossy with metal, and its foundation was made of white marble to give it a royal lushness. As the group stepped out, the CEOs waved goodbye to Alex, and they went into the sky.
The sports cars the guys had picked were parked in the massive driveway. Armored sentries patrolled the grounds, and unmanned droids scanned every inch of the property.
"This is my present to all of you." Alex extended his hands out to the mansion. "This is all ours."
The group's jaw dropped. They acknowledged that they were getting wealthy, but the mansion was proof of it.
"This was bought with the money we got selling the gold…" Alex exclaimed. The mansion had dozens of rooms, and it had two massive doors to enter. As soon as they walked in, the aroma of mint hit the group. The floors were polished, and robotic butlers and maids greeted them.
Ashner studied the inside of the unfurnished mansion. It had a massive living room with two staircases that circled upward.
Each group member went into a different room. Ashner claimed one that had a massive walk-in closet. Risa and Luna chose the rooms left and right to his.
Outside in the yard, Wong enjoyed the cold and studied the massive pool. And a Jacuzzi.
Gio was inspecting their oversized garage. It was set up for at least ten cars.
Alex studied the kitchen. It had enough space for multiple people to cook a feast.
Risa found her way into the mansion's attic, which was modified specifically for stargazing. Under the bright sun, she found herself excited for the sun to set.
Below their feet was a basement that extended down two floors. More extensive than the entire mansion. With a secret underground passage, it also served as a spare car garage. From what Ashner gathered, this mansion used to belong to some big-shot politician. In fact, all the windows were bulletproof, and the walls were reinforced with steel.
The property had a guest house as well. It wasn't as large as the main house, but it had its own pool, and it was also two stories high.
The lowest floor was built to be a wine cellar with multiple honeycomb designs. It also had its own gun safe, along with a walk-in safe that doubled as a nuclear shelter.
The floor above that one was storage, more than likely for food or materials. Either way, Ashner loved it. And so did the rest of the group.
Luna walked into the mansion, more than satisfied with its luxury. She studied Ashner and Risa, who were both on the main living room floor. The girls had never experienced or witnessed this level of luxury.
Alex sat next to them. "I chose not to buy furniture. I'd prefer if everyone picks and chooses what they want." Alex's tail wagged quickly.
"Good job!" Gio hugged Alex tightly. And Wong sat down next to him with a big smile. "You found us an amazing home."
"I'm impressed." Wong smiled brightly at Alex.
Ashner stood up and tapped the boiler's room's door. Once he did, the door to the White Room appeared. "This sure beats the crappy apartment I had on the surface." Outside, the sun started setting.