Celebrate While You Can

{[Sometimes the best therapy is sharing problems, solutions, and drinks with your friends.]}

"It has your name?" Luna glanced at Ashner, who nodded slowly. Then she jerked her head up back at the wall, its lights still sending out a message.

"It does." Ashner pondered on the message the Luminous had given him. "The White Room, the Blue Screen… She wasn't a God… But she had my power…"

The demi's stayed mute. Their entire society had different beliefs when it involved the Luminous Goddess, some going as far as believing she created all life. But she, like Ashner, just stumbled into another world and made the best of it.

"She gave humanity a second chance." Monica tilted her head and studied the girl. "In a way, she is a Goddess to everyone on Earth… It's a shame we destroyed our planet. The very thing she fled from is what became of humanity once more…"

"History always repeats itself," Ashner admitted. "Does this mean humans were always in Eden, or maybe she took people from her world there… This doesn't tell us enough…"

"At least we got some answers." Frayia was satisfied. "And the mana deposits are due to all the enchantment stones on the walls."

"We should take the stones." Ashner glanced at the stairway. "There are thousands of them, and all different colors. We'll use them for enchantments."

"I can arrange that." Alex glanced at the CEOs, who both nodded. "We'll strip these walls… As for the statutes…"

"We should take them to Eden." Ashner grasped how hard those two fought, how they faced impossible odds, and even as they died, they gave it their all. "Dead or alive, they're going home… Well, her home is out of my reach, but from how hard she fought for Eden… I think it's the very least we can do for them… Maybe we can leave them inside the Sanctuary castle…"

"As you wish." Alex bowed.

Rest well, warriors… I'll pick up where you left off… Even if I'm not a hero, that doesn't mean I won't try to help…

*******

The flight back was silent. The CEOs were busy with their private work and typed on their computers for most of the trip.

Alex and Luna leaned on the floor of the jet, and Luna and Risa sat on the bed. Frayia was snoring in her seat.

"Talk to me." Ashner broke the ice. "Every one of you looks depressed."

"I wouldn't say it's depression." Luna glanced at Ashner. Her lengthy hair slid from her shoulder and rested on her arm as she did. "I think the best way to put it… We have to face the reality that the woman we called God was a traveler, just like you."

"You don't have to tell anyone the truth," Ashner suggested.

Risa and Luna both shook their heads. "Eden needs to know… But if she has the same power you do… That means you are capable of extraordinary things… She relocated humans on this planet… Were they from Eden or from her planet? This is all too much to take in…"

"Her planet, since humans on Earth can't use mana." Ashner gave a sound answer, but he wasn't entirely sure if it was correct or not.

Free Spin?

"Speak of the devil. It's time for my weekly spin." Ashner smirked. "Let's see what magnificent power I'll get today." The demi's glanced at Ashner. "Spin."

The blue menu spun like a colored computer graphics card fan and stopped slowly.

(Common) Change the Meaning of One Word

Level 1 – (Bought) – By spending 10,000XP, you can permanently change the meaning of one word in one language. It won't take effect unless someone looks at you or someone you've influenced with your power looks at a target.

"Ah…" Ashner gasped slowly.

"What's your new power?" Alex's eyes twinkled.

"It lets me change the meaning of one word in one language…"

"That's stupid." Alex giggled.

"Not all my powers are good. Most of them are random." Ashner stood up. "I can't pretend to know how you four feel… But I will always be here for you guys."

Alex smiled, and Luna smirked. Risa glanced and smiled, and Angel jumped and clung to Ashner.

"I don't believe her." Luna tilted her head. Her eyes were entrancing, and her face was red due to the wine she had drunk earlier. Her hair was a bit messy, and Ashner, admittedly, loved that. "You are my hero, and a hero to so many more… So what if you're not 'the' hero."

Ashner's mask created a smile.

"Gio and Wong are gonna be pissed they missed out on this." Alex blinked quickly. "Those two love adventure as much as you do."

"They're off doing their own thing… I'm assuming they're preparing for a celebration…"

"What kind of celebration?" Angel's eyes lit up.

"It's almost Christmas." Ashner smiled. But none of the demi's reacted.

"What's that?" Risa asked with her head tilted to her side.

"It's a holiday."

"What's a holiday?" Luna asked this time.

"Oh, your world doesn't have holidays… Well, I can see that being a thing… I'm assuming you girls will be joining us."

The CEO's nodded.

"We wouldn't miss it…" Grace smiled. "How else are we supposed to impress our incubus?"

The demi's glanced at one another, confused, but Ashner was happy.

*******

It was finally time. Ashner started decorating their home. He started with the tree, then put large socks by the fireplace, and random corners of their home had fake decorative pine cones. He even went as far as decorating the stairway. He scavenged decorative plates and started preparing everything.

Ashner's mask had a vast digital smile the entire time. The demi's exchanged glances at him from time to time, but they didn't question him over why he was so ecstatic. Instead, they were silently happy. It was a change of pace from his usual monotone or flat-out grumpy moods.

Now, where should this go?

Between Ashner's fingers, he held a mistletoe knotted together with a red ribbon.

I can put it on the chandelier in the main hallway… If I'm lucky, Risa, Luna, or maybe Angel will step under it and…

Ashner giggled like a child, making Risa raise a single ear.

Who am I kidding? As much as I like those three, I know they can't possibly like me back. I'm, well, I'm repulsive… This morning, I popped some of the zits that were growing out of my face… And half my nose is gone. It's only a matter of time until it's completely gone… My lip is also going… Soon, I won't be able to eat or even talk properly… I'm hoping the gotcha system gives me something that helps with healing… But if that were the case… Luminous and Angel might've lived with their wounds… It's just a guess, but I think she had this power much longer than I did… As much as I wish I could date one of them… It's not fair to them since I look like this… But my imagination is mine, and no one can take it away… Fantasies are usually better than reality…

Ashner tapped on one of his floating ball droids. It opened up and revealed two slim hands with three fingers. Ashner handed it the mistletoe and pointed up at the giant chandelier. The robot nodded and did as instructed.

Wong walked through the front door. He was wearing a single-breasted wool pea coat, complete with thick dress pants. Black and blue colors that contrasted against his skin. And, as always, his hair was perfect.

As he walked in, two humanoid droids took his presents, and he removed his jacket. Under it, he wore a black turtleneck that highlighted his slim and strong figure.

"You made it." Ashner smiled as he lit a few candles over the fireplace.

"You… Oh wow, you went all out." Wong handed him a bottle of Grand Marnier, sparkling wine, cranberries, and cranberry juice. It was stored in a glass jug, so it was something he brought from Eden.

"What's all that?" Ashner asked. As he did, Risa and Angel walked into the kitchen. Luna and Alex were busy cooking turkeys and pies in the kitchen.

"This is everything we need to make a Cranberry Mimosa," Wong smirked as the robots placed the gifts under the fake tree that stood about fifteen feet tall. It was decorated with spheres and even some oddities that were given as gifts to Ashner and his group from children in Sanctuary.

"What's that?" Angel snatched up a cranberry and ate it. She immediately sucked her lips due to how sour it was.

"It's a traditional Christmas drink." Wong smiled. "Don't eat them all."

Angel nodded.

"What did you bring?" Wong smirked at Ashner. The three had agreed to make this holiday memorable, and each had gone above and beyond to try to one-up each other.

"Milk, hot chocolate mix, whipped vanilla vodka, chocolate liqueur, and a marshmallow garnish." Ashner pointed at the kitchen. "I have everything I need for Grinch cocktails."

"That milk… Is it from?"

"Yes, it's from Ari. Her milk is the best I've ever had."

"Gio is going to chug all of it." Wong tilted his head, and then he checked out his friends.

Ashner was wearing a red quarter-zip sweater and clean jeans. Lately, he had been putting effort into making himself presentable. Wong was glad. He grasped it a while back, but Ashner was changing. He wasn't the roughed-up, empty man who walked into his hospital months ago anymore.

As for Angel, she was wearing a black Gothic queen dress. It had a skirt. Regardless of what size she wanted to be, it was either knee high or it became seductive. Her sleeves were exposed and tight against her chest with a band that stretched regardless of her size.

Next, his eyes landed on Risa, who wore a black crop top sweater that exposed a portion of her slim stomach. To top it off, she had white and black quilted windbreaker pants.

The door opened, and Gio entered. He just about tumbled over himself carrying all the gifts. He was wearing a leather bomber jacket and cargo pants.

He actually dressed up for this.

The droids took the presents, and Gio skipped towards the guys with a big smile. Then he held up his offering. "I got it, boyyyz!" He exaggerated his words.

The group glanced at what he was holding.

"Brown sugar, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, dark rum, and cinnamon sticks… Most of these cost me a fortune, and some were grown in Eden."

Ashner and Wong nodded. "You win this year."

"What did I win?" Gio perked up.

"The spirit of Christmas?" Ashner tilted his head.

"Bragging rights for the whole year," Wong answered right away.

"Fuck yeah!" Gio smiled. "I'm making hot buttered rum, by the way."

Alex and Luna entered the main hallway. Luna removed her apron and revealed that she wore a green quartz cocktail mini-dress. Her chest was extremely highlighted, and the guys all took a peek and glanced away.

Damn it… This has to be the work of those CEO vultures… They're really pushing to make these girls more beautiful than they already are… I'm not complaining, but I'm a little nervous around them now.

Alex walked in wearing a quilted navy sweater and dress pants. Obviously dressed up by the five women who adore him.

Everyone is so well dressed.

"The food is almost done." Alex smiled. "Luna is learning how to bake, so if some of the pies are a bit burned, you can blame her."

"Hey!" Luna tapped her fingers together, and her ears drooped. "I can cook simple things. Baking is new to me."

"It's okay." Ashner's mask created a happy smile. "As long as we're all together, this night is something we'll all remember."

"What's so special about this day?" Risa asked as her cat tail swaying.

"It's the most popular holiday in my world… Once a year, you gather with your friends and family, have a big meal, exchange gifts, and talk about the things you're grateful for… I haven't spent a Christmas with my friends or family in years…" Ashner tilted his head down. Now the demi's grasped why he was so excited.

"I spent the last couple of years drinking on this day," Wong admitted.

"Same here." Ashner pivoted towards his friend.

"I was in a coma." Gio blinked. And I didn't dream a thing. It just feels like I closed my eyes, and then I opened them. And years had passed."

"I didn't get you any gifts." Risa's ears narrowed down. The rest of the demi's didn't admit it, but they also didn't get anything since they lacked the knowledge of the holiday's significance.

"Don't worry." Ashner waved his hand, indicating that it was okay. I didn't tell any of you because this year, I want you guys to just receive gifts. Every one of you has worked hard and fought alongside us. And you've shared parts of your world with us. It's time for us to share a piece of Earth with you."

The demi's smiled.

"But first. We need to go to the White Room." Ashner walked towards the closet door that was used as the entrance into Eden.

The three guys entered with a handful of wrapped presents. The demi's paced behind them.

Inside the White Room, Ari, Violet, Rolo, Serenity, Twila, Saki, Sapphire, and a handful of others waited. They were waiting in the training room.

"We're here." Ari wore a blue and yellow elven dress, and Gio's jaw dropped. Violet wore tribal clothes, and Rolo wore ceremonial armor.

"Thank you all for coming," Ashner's mask smiled, making Twila and Saki smile themselves.

Ashner explained the concept of Christmas to the demi's, and then he made an announcement.

"Since this is a holiday from Earth, we decided it should be celebrated there." Ashner and the guys decided it, since it was the first holiday they celebrated together since the war. "Anyone with a slave crest is welcome to the festivities on Earth."

Twila, Saki, Sapphire, Serenity, and a handful of warriors entered Ashner's world, and as they did, Ashner presented gifts to everyone who was going back to Eden.

"For Ari, the woman who took a gamble with trusting us." Ari opened Ashner's gift. It was a solar-powered vanity mirror with lights, complete with a solar-powered hair dryer. "Since you're always so attentive to how you look."

Wong gave her a solar-powered shoulder, neck, and back massager. "I figured you must get sore a lot," Ari smiled and bowed.

Lastly it was Gio's gift. It was a pair of stacking bracelets, each with a different gem. "Thank you, Gio." She spoke but Ashner caught that her tone was a bit distant.

Something about Gio's gift is bothering Ari…

Ari bowed. "Thank you. These gift exchanges confuse me a little, but I cherish you three as friends and allies."

For Violet, the fearless demi-bunny Gio gave her a handful of shirts and jeans. Underneath them, he hid a bunny lingerie outfit complete with fishnets. Violet raised an eyebrow. "It's for Wong… Make sure you surprise him with that."

Violet smirked and tapped Gio's shoulder with a blush. Her strength tossed him back three feet.

Ashner gave her a treasure box. Something he noted that she left behind in her home. This treasure box was large and made of wood and metal. Its wood was carved and had beautiful flower designs.

Lastly, Wong gave her a handful of sweaters, winter pants, and jackets. "You don't wear much… I don't want you getting sick."

Violet hugged and kissed Wong's cheek, and he jerked away from her.

Lastly, Rolo. Ashner gave him a dagger engraved with emeralds. Wong gave him a handful of beard maintenance items, and Gio gave him not one, not two, but three barrels of rum. Rolo was more excited about Gio's gift, and nobody faulted him for it.

The demi's returned to Eden. Once they did, the guys knocked on a girl's door who decided the White Room was a better home than Eden.

Naomie turned her knob, leaving the door ajar, and took a peek. Her green eyes focused on the guys. She opened the door halfway.

"Why are all of you here?" Naomie was wearing pajamas and had spent most of the morning scribbling in her notebook. Her bed covers were scattered.

"We're here to see if you want to venture into Earth." Ashner rarely pushed her to leave the safety of her room. But today was a special occasion. "We're celebrating a holiday."

Naomie opened the door fully, and her fox ears darted around. Then she glanced back at her room.

She doesn't seem that eager to step out of her room.

"I…" Her ears slanted down. "I don't want to leave my room."

"That's fine." Ashner and the guys turned around, and each picked up wrapped presents. "May we enter?"

"Come in." Naomie stepped into her room, and the guys placed the presents in the center. Naomie's room was large enough for two or three dozen people to comfortably socialize in.

"In our world, we're celebrating something called Christmas," Gio explained. "Once a year, we give the people we care about presents."

"I know what it is." Naomie held a slight smile.

"How?" Wong raised his eyebrow.

"The books you've given me mention it. Along with other holidays like Thanksgiving and the New Year."

"Then this makes things easy for us." Ashner handed her a large box. "Open it."

Naomie's neutral gaze was common, so familiar that the guys rarely caught a glimpse of the small girl's smile.

Naomie tore the festive red and green wrapping and discovered a box, which she promptly opened.

Inside was an oversized fox plushy. Naomie tilted her head, and then her fingers grazed it.

"I know you're dedicating yourself to being stronger," Ashner said as she lifted the toy and studied its face. But you're still young, and I don't think you should give up every part of your youth for your goal… Take time to enjoy childish things and remember that the three of us will always have your back."

Naomie glanced at the fluffy toy for a few seconds. Unsure of how to react, she embraced and cuddled the plushy. "Thank you."

"I also want you to venture outside of this room… But I won't force you… Only you can decide when you're ready."

Naomie took a step back and put her plushy on her bed. Next came Wong's gift. It was smaller but weighed more. She opened it up and discovered a camera. One designed with an early 21st-century style.

"Camera?" Naomie lifted it up and took a picture of the three guys. The flash caught them off guard.

"That's for when you're ready to leave your room." Wong blinked. "Don't lock yourself away in here forever… The world is full of beauty, and with that, you can capture every moment."

Naomie put the camera next to her bed. "Thank you." Naomie bowed. Wong wasn't fond of women, and Naomie was aware.

"Mine next!" Gio smiled brightly. He had the largest box.

Naomie opened his up only to find a high-end gaming computer system. Naomie studied it, confused.

Both Ashner and Wong gave Gio a disappointed glance.

"What?" Gio was unsure why he earned it. "If she's going to be here all day, then she might as well have fun. Plus, the White Room somehow has access to Wi-Fi. And theirs power outlets in the room too."

The guys sighed heavily, but Naomie was happy with it.

"I'll help you set it up tomorrow." Gio gave Naomie a quick smile. "I wish you'd join us on Earth, but maybe next time."

The guys turned around. "Wait." Naomie reached her hand out.

The guys stopped and glanced over their shoulders.

"Can I make a request?"

The guys glanced at one another.

"Can the three of you kneel?"

The guys obeyed, and they were at eye level with the blonde girl.

"Good." Naomie leaned forward and wrapped her left arm around Wong, laid her head on Ashner's shoulder, and her right arm held onto Gio.

The guys giggled.

"What are you doing?" Wong asked.

"Yeah, you're our kuudere girl," Gio commented. "So out of character."

"You're rarely affectionate." Ashner was cautious not to tap his mask on her head.

"I know the three of you are trying your best…" Naomie's hands shook. "The three of you are the closest thing I have to big brothers…"

The guys glanced at her. She was tiny and frail, but over the months, she had started to fill up. Her hair was now down to her shoulders. Admittedly, the three had given her plenty of gifts in the past, but this was the first time they did it at the same time. Most of the time, Naomie gave a meek 'thanks'. All three grasped a portion of her emotions, and they individually decided to let her heal on her own terms.

"You can let go now." Wong was getting a bit uncomfortable.

"Just… A little longer…" Naomie clung to the three tighter.

*******

The guys returned to Earth. Greeted with the aroma of cooked meat, echos filled with laughter, and the spice of alcohol clung in the air.

XP:0 > XP:200

They're taking it easy in Eden. Well, some of their warriors are at our party.

Ashner walked towards the food and grabbed some meat. His mask opened up, and he ate, facing away from the demi's. Wong walked through the house, and as always, most of the girls were captivated by his appearance.

Gio had a karaoke machine going and sang along to anime songs.

Their home was filled with laughter.

Ashner's mind returned to his past, from the time he spent in jail to the run-down apartment. The drunken nights he spent alone, the days he talked to himself just to pretend he had some company. And when his mind created illusions to delude his reality, at the same time, he was exhausted from lying to himself… But this wasn't a lie…

"Are you not enjoying yourself?" Ashner tilted his head. A blonde elf with yellow eyes tilted her head towards Ashner. She was the elf that threw up when he was showering.

"Lupi."

"You remember my name?"

"You're a hard woman to forget." Ashner studied her outfit. She was wearing a yellow sundress. "How is your punishment?"

"You mean my temporary job?" Lupi gave Ashner a sly smile. "I've been learning about your world, and I've been handling all of Alex's paperwork."

"Alex keeps himself busy." Both of them glanced his way. Zerena and Elna were near him. His personal guards.

"In more ways than one… That incubus has vigor that puts most men to shame." Lupi sipped on her alcohol. "I want to thank you."

"For?"

"I disrespected you, and you managed to find a solution that didn't end with my death." Lupi's ears lowered. "I don't admit it much… But I'm terrified of the Dead God… But when I'm here… I'm not afraid anymore… Earth is my haven…"

"Earth has its problems, too."

"It also has beautiful dresses and cookies." Lupi giggled. "And humans that I value… I made friends with some of them."

"I'm glad."

"You don't understand." Lupi's ears lifted. "You've closed the bridge between humans and demi's… You're truly a man sent by the Luminous Goddess…"

I shouldn't tell any of them the truth about the Goddess… I don't want to destroy their religious beliefs.

"If you'll excuse me." Lupi bowed and ventured back to the bar, where Alex was happily preparing drinks for everyone.

"Got you!" Angel clung to Ashner's shoulder and nibbled on his neck with her fangs. She was in her smaller form. And she didn't draw blood.

"Master," Twila stopped an arms-length away from him. She had been chasing Angel, who, more often than not, ended up with something Gio called 'zoomies,' which resulted in her running around and asking someone to chase her. Twila was her latest victim.

"This is a pair I never expected to see together."

"Bye gones are bye gones." Angel broke away from Ashner's neck just for the comment and then returned to her nibbling.

"I owe her more than an apology." Twila was wearing a tight leather outfit, and her hair was in a ponytail. "But she insisted that we play a game instead."

"That's how she'll get you to chase her." Ashner rubbed Angel's head. "She's adorable but a troublemaker."

"I'm adorable?" Angel's eyes lit up. "What about Twila?"

Twila's eyes widened.

Ashner took a few seconds to study her. "Twila is dazzling."

Twila took the compliment in for a second, and then she disappeared into the shadows.

Ashner tilted his head.

Did I go too far? It was just a compliment.

Angel giggled, and then she shifted her size and became her usual height. "Now in my normal form… Am I… Just adorable? Dad… Dy?"

Ashner tried to fight it, but Angel had a charm like the sun. Just being near her made his body hot. "No… You're…"

"Master." Luna clung to Ashner from behind, her chest pressed against his back, and her breath reeked of liquor. "I heard you're giving out compliments… Where's mine?"

She's drunk, and she's soft… Damn it, get your mind out of the gutter Ashner.

"Luna, you're clinging." Ashner tried to shake her off, but that backfired, and Luna turned him around. She clung to his shoulders and pressed her body against his with a hug.

"What are you plotting, elf?" Risa appeared next to Ashner.

"Can't I just hug my Master?" Luna smirked and adjusted her body, pressing against him more.

Risa glanced around and grabbed Luna's ear. "Ow!" She pulled her off Ashner.

"Ow! Just let me hug him for a little longer," Luna begged, but Risa showed no mercy and led the drunk elf away.

"That was weird." Ashner giggled.

"I don't think it's weird." Angel studied Ashner with alluring eyes. "What do you think of Risa and Luna?"

"Hummm," Ashner said, tapping the bottom of his mask. "Risa is alluring, and Luna is stunning… As for you… You're angelic."

Angel smiled brightly, showing off her fangs. "Careful, we might jump your bones one day."

"We?"

"Yes, you dummy for a daddy." Angel spun on her heel and glanced over her shoulder at Ashner. "You're charming."

Angel took off with a smile.

Charming… I wish she would've said handsome… Charming tells me they like my personality… Not how I look… Sometimes, I let myself believe that those three have a thing for me… No, stop it, don't do this to yourself today… Today is the first Christmas I spend with friends… Today, I'm having a blast.

The hours passed, and slowly but surely, demi's started returning to Eden. For a little while, Alex skipped out of the party and went into his room with Zerena and Elna. When they returned, the girl's faces were blushing.

The CEOs joined the party late, but they brought gifts, most of them were for Alex… And most of them were sex toys, which were a foreign concept to the demi's. Gio and Wong lost their marbles in laughter when Alex spun an anal bead over his head.

It was deep into the night, and Ashner sat in front of Gio and Wong. They had each made a drink for the other two.

Sleeping on the couch was a wasted Frayia. She had tried removing her white top while she wore her lab coat in her drunken phase but was quickly bopped in the head by Monica. The hit left the elf on the seat, slobbering with her back exposed. Snoring happily, nonetheless.

"Here you go." Ashner handed a drink to Wong and Gio. "To our first Christmas together outside of the war."

The guys clunk their cups together and savored their moment of peace. "This whole thing is getting a bit out of hand," Ashner admitted.

"What is?" Gio asked.

"Trying to balance two worlds… Not to mention, I'm around gorgeous women, and I feel like a creep cause I don't feel like I'm worthy of them… But I still like them."

"Luna and Angel," Gio answered.

"You like Risa, right?" Wong and Gio replied simultaneously, then glanced at one another.

"What the fuck?" Ashner raised his eyebrow. "I can't be that easy to read."

"Maybe to random people, but you're our fearless leader. We usually know how you feel… Especially when it comes to women." Gio commented as he gave the guys the rum he had made. The guys savored the taste, and Gio continued talking. "As for me, I like Ari… But she didn't seem that excited about the gifts I gave her… Maybe she can sense that I'm still upset over bumping into Robyn… Girls have a sixth sense over stuff like that."

"Keep trying with Ari." Ashner smiled at his friend. "I haven't seen you this excited over a woman since Robyn."

"Fuck Robyn." Wong narrowed his eyes. "I hate that bitch."

"You hate a lot of women."

"I do." Wong nodded as he handed everyone his drink, and they savored it. "But I only hate women who deserve to be hated… Just cause they're weaker than us physically doesn't make them any less dangerous. They just use different tactics. But God forbid you call them out… They'll play the victim card… But… It's not all women… Violet… Now, that's a woman I can't hate, but I think she's only that nice to me because she's attracted to me…"

"Your logic's a bit flawed," Ashner smiled at his brothers-in-arms. "Violet is nice to me, and I'm hideous."

His words made the guys glance away.

"I'll find a way to cure you." Wong gritted his teeth.

"I've accepted it." Ashner sighed. "I've also accepted that I'm a hated sex offender."

"You're not." Gio glared at his friend. "Don't fucking say that about yourself again."

"He's right." Wong tilted his head up. "That bullshit was forced on you, don't let it become a reality just because everyone believes it… That's what held back slaves in our past… It wasn't magic that bounded their souls… It was the power of words… They were disgraced and belittled so much that it became part of their identity… Don't let it become yours."

"You're right." Ashner held his chest and head up high. "It just feels so overwhelming sometimes."

"We're here to lighten the load." Gio slurred his words. "And when the time comes, we're going after Ensley."

"No." Ashner shook his head. "Let him have his victory… I don't want to put us in needless danger…"

Both Gio and Wong glanced at each other. But they respected Ashner's decision.

"I like this," Ashner admitted. "Whenever we have issues, we should meet up with drinks… I love you guys."

"I love you too." Gio smiled, and Wong nodded.

It was one in the morning now. And most of the demi's returned home. With the exception of the leaders of the Masked Ones. Those women wanted to savor their time with Ashner.

Even Alex's CEO harem went home. Taking Frayia with them.

"Master?" Twila's hands were shaking. "Would you have a drink with us?"

Ashner glanced behind the beautiful woman. Serenity, Saki, and Sapphire were sitting on a couch. All four women were exceptionally beautiful. Next to them sat Luna, who had fallen asleep due to getting wasted so early on. Angel and Risa were buzzing and chatting on the floor.

"Of course." Ashner accepted Twila's drink, and they continued the party.

I can't believe this. I'm actually having drinks with gorgeous women… I truly feel like I'm living a dream.

Alex continued his job as the bartender and handed everyone more drinks until the early hours of two in the morning.

Ashner ended up giving Sapphire all his magical stones. As for Serenity, he gave her solar-powered shingles and explained that they were being stripped from destroyed buildings and he was going to give her exclusive rights to them. She was so happy she hugged Ashner tightly.

Saki ended up receiving a handful of nun outfits, which Gio had modified and somehow made a little more erotic. As for Twila, Ashner gave her a handful of Graphene daggers. Ten were designed for close-quarter combat, and over a hundred were throwing daggers.

As the night continued, Alex started to brag about their mansion. How it was able to come apart and reassemble, in case they decided to move to another floating city.

Ashner gave Risa a handful of katanas made with Graphene, and Alex got an upgrade to his sniper's scope. The advanced scope was capable of reading the rotation of the Earth, wind speeds, and bullet drop. It was always zeroed perfectly. It was also encased in anti-emp technology, so it would never short circuit.

Angel got a handful of red gems, all fire-resistant, and dozens of goth outfits. As for Luna, Ashner got her a more advanced drone system. One capable of controlling up to three hundred drones. He was curious as to how far her talent went.

The party continued.

Moments treasured among friends.

Laughter and banter that outlasts time and space.

Cheers worth more than gold.

Until someone knocked on the door.

"I got it." Ashner giggled. Most of the group was wasted. He had sobered up a little. "It might be the neighbors complaining about the noise."

Wait… I don't have any neighbors close enough to hear the music…

Ashner opened the door.

A blonde beauty wearing a red dress with two armored droids greeted him.

A woman who despised Ashner.

Iris.

Fuck it all to hell…

"I had to see it to believe it." Iris' tone was, like always, bitter. "How in the hell did a worm end up in the clouds?"

"I sent you all the money I owed you…" Ashner glanced back into the house. Risa's sharp ears caught the insult. "Why are you here?"

"To get some answers," Iris helped herself into the house. Ashner was partly buzzed, so he stumbled to the side as her guards shoulder-bumped him. "How can someone like you venture into paradise?"

Fuck, she's going to kill the mood…

"I earned it," Ashner answered with a glare. "I worked hard and started a company that the floating cities rely on."

"Key Corp." Iris flared her nostrils. "A small insignificant company that'll soon exhaust its gold reserves."

"No," Ashner reassured her. "We have enough gold to last us decades… I will never live on the surface again… Like it or not, I am a part of this city now."

This made the gorgeous woman bite her lip in a rage. "No… I won't allow it…" She glanced at the party. Some of the members were staring at her.

"This isn't a floating city controlled by Raven Corp." Ashner finally obtained something he valued. He'd be damned if someone tried to take it away. "I am better than what you make me out to be."

"You're a piece of shit." Iris started to raise her voice. "A man who forced himself on my little sister… Then, terrified, she carelessly ran into oncoming traffic and died… You're the one at fault."

Her tone had cracked while she spoke.

Ashner's eyes focused on the woman. For a long time, he allowed her insults to dig into him. But he was done with it. He had accepted the truth… He wasn't at fault. And now, studying her eyes, he caught the truth.

She's still suffering… Iris is in so much pain that this is the only way she can vent… I have to be her punching bag… But that won't bring her sister back… And I've allowed her to live this lie as a means to punish myself…

"Iris…" Ashner's tone hadn't shifted, and this triggered something in the wealthy woman. "I paid my due… I gave you every cent, and I let you bash me over and over… I'm done pretending to be the villain you paint me as… It's time for you to grow up… And get out of my house."

A vein pulsed in Iris' forehead. She gritted her teeth and glanced away for a second.

A slap echoed loudly.

Ashner's digital mask landed on the tile floor and slid away from him.

The group got quiet, and all eyes landed on Ashner and Iris.

"Don't you lecture me!" Iris roared. "Did my little sister get a chance to… 'Grow up!'"

My mask… Her nails dug into my cheek, popping some of the blisters… Fuck it hurts… The mask is too far away… I don't want them to see my face… I don't… That's my shield… The only thing that keeps the hurtful gazes away from my sight...

Iris smirked. She had regained her dominion over Ashner. Attacking his insecurity gave her the edge she loved. Ashner's panicked gaze made her heart race.

"Tell me, what went through your mind… When you held my little sister down…"

Don't say it… Please…

"And you raped her… How did you keep your little cock up while she cried and begged you to stop!"

Wong stood up and marched towards Iris. But Gio held his chest, holding him back.

At the same time, Saki and Twila's killing intent spiked. Before they stood up, Alex's glowing purple eyes glared at them. Giving both women the warning they needed to stay seated.

"I'm a virgin," Ashner admitted the truth as blood ran down his face and neck. "I never touched her… I've never slept with anyone…"

"Do you actually believe your own lies?." Iris' eyes flared. "You're nauseating, a little man who got a little lucky. Ashner, I don't care if everyone forgives you… I won't ever let this rage go… I'll dig my heels into the ground and find a way to take everything you have away from you… I will break every part of you until you decide the best option is to turn a gun on yourself and give this planet some dignity back… That'll be my Christmas present."

I'm sorry… I'm partly responsible for your hate… But you refuse to listen to me… We're similar, in a way… I needed you to hate me so I could blame myself for failing your sister… But you, Iris, you need to hate me to feel like you're honoring her… Little do you know that Ensley and his friends... They're the ones who hurt your sister… Not like you'll ever believe me… I can't do anything… I'm ashamed of my past cowardliness… I should've fought harder to prove my innocence… Maybe, if I had… Ensley would be locked away… But looking at Iris… I can never convince her… She's addicted to the hate she has for me… I can't even look at her in the eyes… No, focus, stop looking at her chin and look up, look at her in the eyes. Speak up and let her know the truth, the whole truth…

Ashner held his eyes low, and as much as he tried, his body refused to glance up… Partly from shame, and another part because she was right about his physical appearance. He was repulsive, and there was a chance he'd see his own reflection in her eyes.

I can't… Who I was created her hatred, but who I am now… Who I'm turning into… I need to speak. I need to express the truth to someone who hates me… I… I don't know… What can I do? I… I… Fuck… I…

"Ashner." A sweet tone broke the ice. Risa tilted her head, her tail waved, and her eyes were filled with concern. Ashner glanced at her, then turned away. Hiding his face with his fingers. Between her fingers, she held Ashner's mask. "You dropped this."

"Who are you?" Iris crossed her arms and judged Risa. "You're way too beautiful to be around him… And you don't need to give him his mask back… Let the dog bend over and pick it up for himself."

Wong took a step forward, fueled by drunken rage, but Gio was stronger and used his strength to hold Wong back. As for Saki and Twila, both of their hands shook. But Alex's warning was absolute. They refused to step out of line. Doing so might destroy their reputation with Ashner.

"If Ashner is a dog, I'd say he's a kind one." Risa glanced at Ashner, who kept his face hidden with his fingers, which were now stained with his blood and yellowish puss. "As for me, I'm Risa, and I'm Ashner's friend."

"Friend?" Iris raised a single eyebrow. "Someone with a face and body like yours… I'm surprised I haven't seen you at a party thrown by an investor or CEO head… You'd easily gain the favor of one of them…"

"I'm not interested in wealth."

"Nonsense… Everyone is interested in wealth…" Ashner grabbed the mask and muttered a weak expression of gratitude. Iris studied their interaction, and then her eyes studied the room. Multiple women, all beauties, were wasting their Christmas with a loser. "My, the women here are all pearls. What did you offer them so they would waste their time among a swine like you."

Ashner put his mask on, but the gel-like substance refused to stick around his face due to the blood.

"Risa." Iris was set to keep her word. "Come with me… Leave this revolting man behind, and I'll introduce you to some of my friends…"

Risa raised both her eyebrows.

"In fact, I'll take any of the girls here!" Iris extended her invitation. "Ashner may have some money, but compared to some of the men I'm friends with, his wealth and this house are barely worth a second glance... I can take you to better parties with powerful, wealthier men who actually have some... Charm…"

That's your plan… To try to isolate me… It's easy to beat me down when I have no one around me… But if they go… I mean, can I blame them? I'm so afraid of how I look. My hands are shaking… And as much as I imagine myself dating one of them… It's never going to happen… I'm… I'm just holding them back.

"No." Risa had a handkerchief, and she started cleaning the blood around Ashner's chin.

"No?" Iris glanced at the rest of the girls. None of them budged. Angel had dug her nails into the table. Luna smiled devilishly. But the others. Saki, Twila, Serenity, and Sapphire. Their rage-filled eyes seeped out. Iris smiled nervously. "Come on, you don't need to be afraid. My guards won't let anyone hurt you… It's obvious he trapped you with his money. Why else would you be here?"

"Ashner." Risa held her handkerchief up. "Your mask will keep falling off if you don't let me clean your face... Please move your hands..."

Iris' mouth dropped. Everyone rejected her offer. Wong sat down, satisfied with the resolve of the women around him. Gio, on the other hand, wasn't surprised in the slightest.

"Okay." Ashner's hand shook as he moved his mask away from his face. "Just do it quickly."

Do it quickly… Don't look at me too much…

Risa started by wiping his mask's blood off and then quickly moved to his face, cleaning both the blood and puss. As she did it, she smiled.

She's… She's not disgusted by me? Or is she just being nice? That smile has to be fake. She must've realized how insecure I am…

Iris studied Ashner. "Your face is decaying quicker… It's disgusting…" Iris commented. This wasn't intended to insult him, but it did. Ashner lowered his head.

Iris isn't wrong… I'll eventually lose my lips, and it's likely my entire face in time.

"Iris." Risa finished up. She was holding Ashner's mask with one hand and holding the soiled handkerchief with the other. "We're here with Ashner because we value and care about him… Since you've gotten here, you've disrespected, belittled, and tried to turn his friends against him. All in the span of five minutes… You came here looking for a fight with him, but we're about to pounce on you instead… I can see beyond what you pretend to be, beyond your veil… You'll do anything to crush his soul, anything to feel an ounce of control over him… I wonder if you realize how demented your personality is?"

Iris took a step back. Conflicted with her comment, then she curled her toes in her heels. "Then you must be a gold digger… Or a prostitute who's been paid in advance… No, maybe you're trying to be a trophy wife…"

Risa ignored her words, and her eyes met Ashner's. Risa was aware of how insecure Ashner was with his face. Her ears drooped down, and her face blushed. "I just realized I haven't given you your Christmas gift." Before Ashner reacted, she leaned in. Her lips locked his, and she gave him her first kiss.

No fucking way… Her lips are so soft… And they taste like apple pie…

Iris blinked, and her tongue tied up.

Alex tilted his head, and Luna smiled and hiccuped. She was drunk. Wong closed his eyes and nodded. Gio made a proud fist.

As for the other girls, Twila gave a crescent smile and delighted at the sight. Saki's emotions were conflicted. Serenity reached for another beer, and Sapphire's face burned red.

Risa stepped back and smiled with glee. Ashner smiled back.

"Did you like it?" Risa asked as her tail made small circles.

"I did." Ashner's mind was far above cloud nine.

"Hey!" Iris interrupted them. She had been stumbling over her words and was tired of being ignored. "If you're done with your whore."

"Zip your hole." Ashner glared at Iris, this time with renewed confidence. "You have no right to be here. I paid my due to you… Stop embarrassing yourself and go home… Enjoy your Christmas with the people who give a shit about you... Why are you spending it with someone you claim to hate?"

Iris' face grew red with rage. A spoiled woman who wasn't used to not getting her way. She tried to talk again, but the footsteps of a more beautiful woman kept her mute.

Angel paced towards Ashner and Iris like a princess. Her red hair, alluring body that curved perfectly into her dress, fair skin, and a face that made even the most glamorous women insecure about themselves.

A woman who was in a league of her own with her beauty.

The air in Iris' lungs escaped as she took in Angel's charms.

"I considered that you would crawl. Instead, you leaped." Angel was a little taller than Risa. Her black lips contrasted against her pale skin. Her eyes landed on Iris. "As for you."

Angel's eyes studied Iris. Sure, both women were a sight to behold, but Angel held a natural essence of dominance. Iris took a second step back.

"Why don't you take a second to listen to Ashner." Angel got closer to Iris, and the blonde woman submitted out of instinct. Unaware she was in the presence of a vampire. "Tell her the truth."

Ashner took the mask from Risa but decided against putting it on. His eyes met Iris, and he spoke clearly. "I never raped your sister… But I did fail to stop the men who did… I was framed-" As he spoke, Iris' face shifted as white-hot anger consumed her.

"SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP!" As Iris screamed, her words accelerated. "STOP DEFENDING HIM! HE HURT ME! HE TOOK TOO MUCH FROM ME!"

Iris' eyes watered, and her make-up started to smear.

She won't even hear me out…

Iris giggled. "I see… You must be another slut… One that's paid to be nice… Oh, Ashner, you petty excuse for a man… A woman like her doesn't care about you." Iris rationalized her own reality.

Until.

Angel grabbed Ashner's chin and kissed him. This kiss was different from Risa's. It wasn't a quick peck. Angel took her time and slid her tongue into Ashner's mouth. Risa's ears jolted up, and Iris' jaw shook.

Angel broke away from Ashner and licked her lips. "Apple pie." She smiled at Risa, who immediately took three steps back.

"I can have anyone… And I chose to kiss him." Angel glared at Iris. "A little girl like you has no idea how to value anything other than money and power… I can see it in your eyes… You have everything, and because of that, you lack the skills to judge anyone properly."

Iris tilted her head back and forth. This was not the outcome she expected.

Luna took her turn and stole a kiss. Her kiss was sweet from the hot buttered rum. The only issue was that she missed her target. Ashner and Angel tilted their head at the busty elf as she savored Risa's lips.

"Oh, it must be the alcohol." Luna teased, then grasped that she was holding someone much smaller than Ashner. Risa's face burned red from embarrassment. Luna giggled and whispered. "Apple pie."

Slowly, the elf side stepped away from Risa and clung to Ashner. Her chest pressed against his, and she leaned up and kissed him. This kiss had more experience behind it. She took control and tickled the top of Ashner's mouth, licked the tips of his lips, and savored their saliva as it mixed.

Luna was drunk, but she was conscious of her actions. As she pulled away, a line of saliva connecting the two slowly emerged and then broke like a spider web. "Oh, it must be the alcohol," Luna spoke her line again.

Iris gritted her teeth. Deep down, she grasped that she didn't hold a candle to the beauty of any of the women around her. Even if she herself was beautiful enough to get scouted for modeling gigs. But what infuriated her was the realization that none of these women were forced to do anything. They chose to kiss Ashner.

Luna refused to let go of Ashner. Angel clung to his back, and Risa's eyes blinked in confusion. "That's our second kiss." Luna winked, and Angel suddenly wanted to know about their first kiss.

"I don't understand." In Iris' mind, it was as if gems decided to mix themselves in the mud… It should lose its beauty but instead. They shined more. "Why?" Iris asked the girls. "Why him?"

This is incredible… I'm buzzing hard… But damn… You girls are amazing…

"Isn't it obvious?" Luna tilted her head towards Iris. "We chose him because we wanted to… It's no different than you coming here on Christmas… We spent it kissing him, and you spent it visiting a man you hate… Yet you claim he's the loser."

Iris tilted her head down. With her tail between her legs, she gave her armed escorts an order. "Take me back to my limo." One of the guards opened the door for her while the other kept his eyes on the drunk party-goers.

"Oh, Ashner." Iris gave a fierce but arrogant smile towards Ashner. "Soon, you'll see how a true hero is rewarded."

Iris slammed the door on her way out. It rattled the decorations above them. Knocking down a mistletoe in front of Ashner and the three girls.

Three girls…

Ashner's drunken brain tried to process what had just happened.

Ashner grabbed some alcohol and took a shot. As he did, he glanced at the girls. "Apple pie." Ashner giggled and touched his lips. Recalling his face, he put his mask back on.

"Sometimes, when you face a woman," Luna spoke. "The only way to defeat her is to have another woman challenge her ideals and prove to her that she's wrong."

"Thank you, all of you." Ashner's mask smiled at Luna, Angel, and Risa. "You saved me just in time."

Angel hopped with happiness, Luna leaned on the table and grinned devilishly, and Risa rubbed the top of her shoe against the floor.

"Master." Twila moved closer to him. "Is that woman a threat to you? If you want, I can."

"She's a threat and dangerous, but she's a victim… And I'm partly responsible for her attitude…"

"I beg to differ." Luna helped herself to another drink with Gio and Twila. "Regardless of the circumstances, she is responsible for her own actions."

Ashner took a second to digest her words as the liquor burned his throat. Then he told everyone the truth. What Ensley did to Iris' little sister, how he was beaten, and how his face was burned. And how Iris purposely degrades him as a way to try to heal. It wasn't healthy, but it was her way of doing things.

"Let's not let that bitch ruin our night." Wong handed everyone else drinks.

Gio prepared more drinks. "It's Christmas… So let's get fucking wasted!"

No one disagreed.

The night continued, and the guys taught the girls the game. 'Never have I ever.'

It was Wong's turn. "Never have I ever… Committed a crime."

The demi's all chugged along with Wong and Ashner.

"Really?" Gio was conflicted. "What crimes?"

"I paid Crow to steal something from the government," Wong admitted.

"I did some jobs for Crow," Ashner disclosed. "He paid well." Both guys studied each other.

"Seriously?" They both asked in unison and then laughed.

The demi's admitted that being a free demi in Eden is technically a crime.

Twila was next. "Never have I ever… Kissed four women."

Angel, Alex, and Wong were the only ones who took the shot. Twila eyed Ashner and, satisfied, leaned against her seat.

"Never have I ever." Saki continued the game. "Fantasized about falling in love with a kind Master."

The guys all ignored their drinks. But every single girl took a shot.

"Seriously?" Gio's eyebrows raised. "Why?"

"It's forbidden love mixed with fear," Saki explained. "Demi's live on borrowed time… It's a fantasy that garnered a lot of popularity over the years… But it's unlikely since someone who enslaves someone else tends to do whatever they want with them… But you, Ashner… You've never asked us to do anything we'd regret."

"I don't want to be hated," Ashner admitted. "I've been hated for a long time." Ashner rubbed his hands.

"Never have I ever." Serenity had her cup. "Been kissed by the wrong person."

Wong and Serenity were the only ones to drink.

"Who?" Gio asked, but neither of them spoke.

"Let's continue." Ashner didn't want to pry into their bad memories.

"Never have I ever." Saki broke the rules and asked another question. She held her red solo cup up. "Fallen in love with the wrong person."

Gio chugged his drink quickly. Saki sipped on hers. Luna debated it for a few seconds but didn't drink from her cup.

She's been in love before... Who?

"My turn!" Sapphire's tail wagged, and she held her drink with both hands. "Never have I ever… Cried when no one was around."

Everyone drank from their cup.

Ashner giggled. "We're from different worlds… But we've all had hard lives… I've cried myself to sleep a few times…" The girls all tuned in.

"It's not like I wanted to cry… Sometimes life just gets too overwhelming, and your body reacts the only way it can… I always felt like shedding tears is the soul's way of healing the pain no one can see."

"I cried when I found a copy of Rosario + Vampire," Gio admitted. "Mizore all the way… But Kurumu is a close second."

"Mizore is best girl." Ashner replied quickly and drunkenly.

"No way! You saw it!" Gio had a big, goofy smile.

"Yeah." Ashner's head was spinning. "I saw it before the war."

"We're re-watching it." Gio's eyes lit up.

"I'm down." Ashner nodded at Angel. It was her turn.

"Never have I ever." She readied her drink. "Stayed up late with friends."

Everyone took a drink.

"That one was too obvious." Twila was slurring her words.

"Maybe I want us all drunker!" Angel lifted her hands up in a cheer.

It was Alex's turn, and he readied his drink. "Never have I ever… Masturbated to someone in this room."

Wong, Gio, and Alex were the only ones who didn't take a sip.

Ashner's eyes went from girl to girl. "All of you?"

Damn, Wong and Alex, you've got them all touching themselves to you.

Risa's face burned red. She recalled the night she first did it, on a stone bed, the scent of Luna and Ashner. The memory made her tighten her thighs together.

"Who?" Gio dared to ask.

None of the girls wanted to admit it. Even Angel, who was the most open, kept her mouth shut.

"No fun." Gio pouted.

"I believe it's my turn." Risa held her cup. She had been debating what to ask for some time. "Never have I ever… Fallen in love with someone amazing."

Twila, Saki, Angel, Risa and Luna took a sip.

Luna's eyes became glossy.

Who is she thinking of?

Sapphire tumbled to the ground. She was wasted out of her mind.

Even Serenity was buzzing. The group deemed it unfair that she was so resilient, so they doubled her alcohol intake.

"I love this," Luna admitted. "Humans and demi's drinking together, playing games, revealing secrets about ourselves… It reminds me of the Golden Era… Before slavery… I was young, very young, when demi's decided to start enslaving humanity…"

"What was the world like then?" Angel asked with big eyes.

"Peaceful… The world was ours… Humans and demi's fought side by side, and they would fight and destroy dungeon after dungeon… It had gotten to the point where the only ones that remained were hidden deep in the mountains and forests… Demi's turned cruel, and they started to hate humanity."

"Why did they hate them?"

"Humans can use different types of magic, but demi's are more resilient, and they started to think of them as weak, but humans reproduced quickly, and one person claimed that was a problem… It all started with one king, a demi-lion king… A man who wanted war, but there was no one willing to fight in an all-out war… He instead decided it was time to prove his strength by enslaving the weak… He did it so they would work… Enslaving humanity led to a downfall in technology and a rise in bigot hatred towards humans… Most demi's didn't truly hate humans. They just convinced themselves they did and played along until that fake hatred turned real..."

Sapphire woke up, and everyone circled around Luna.

"That's where she comes in… The first hero of humanity… An elven warrior who detested slavery and fought hard to free humanity… A close friend of mine…" Luna inhaled and finished her drink. "If you're willing to hear a story from a drunk elf, then stick around…"

Nobody left.

"Her name was Talina… Her story was twisted by demi's, then it was forgotten by most… But she lives in me… In every breath I take… And in every chain she failed to crumble…"