Alex waited patiently at the training grounds, observing as a purple mana cloud partially obscured the sky's red moon.

It had only been a day since Druella and Alex had returned from their adventure in the Tazchekian Steppe, and Alex had decided to immediately go off and resume his sword-training. Or at least he would have if Druella hadn't dragged him off to the nearest bed in order to relieve all the stress she accumulated from a particularly disrespectful warrior…

Ow, my groin still hurts. At least she seems to be in much better spirits now.

Alex was looking forward to this evening- apparently a Steylian chef and his Satyros wife had moved into Lescatie and opened up their own restaurant, and Druella planned to take them there on a date. Alex enjoyed these dates- they reminded him that he wasn't just some boytoy for the lilim, but truly her one and only husband.

"I'm here, Alex!" a feminine voice cried out.

Alex looked away from his skywatching to see Wilmarina Noscrim running towards him, her sword already in her hands. The Dark Hero was apparently going with her husband on a vacation to Dragonia, but she was able to find enough time to meet with Alex before her departure.

"Hello Wilmarina, it's good to see you again." Alex greeted her with a smile.

"And you as well, Alex!" Wilmarina replied. "I heard you and Lady Druella had a very eventful time at the Steppe! When I get back from Dragonia, I want you to fill me in with every detail!"

"Oh, I'll be sure to." Alex replied. "It definitely was…eventful."

While their adventure did end with them making new friends and another ally against The Order, all Alex could keep thinking about was a glowing-eyed madman ranting about Gods and Monsters as he battled Druella in a ring of smoke.

And he actually injured her, if only slightly…

"Alex, you look rather pensive. Is something wrong?" Wilmarina asked, her eyes filled with concern.

"Oh, it's nothing. I just have a lot of things to worry about." he replied, trying his best to suppress the numerous thoughts teaming through his brain. "Shall we get started? I know you only have a little bit of time before you leave for Dragonia."

Wilmarina smiled. "Ah, someone's eager!" Then she entered a combat stance. "Prepare yourself, Alex! Since we're on a bit of a time limit today, I'm going to up the intensity!"

Alex nodded, unsheathing his Dark Knight's Sword while mirroring Wilmarina's combat stance. After a second or two of staring each other down, the training session began.

"On guard!" Wilmarina yelled as she swung against Alex. Alex scrambled to deflect her blows, his purple blade colliding against hers. Since their weapons were both made of harmless mamono realm silver, there was no need for training weapons.

"Excellent! Now stop this!" WIlmarina raised her blade in the air and swung it down hard with both hands. Alex raised his sword to deflect the strike, but the impact hurt his wrist so much that Wilmarina's blade just barely managed to get low enough to nick his nose.

"Ow!" he exclaimed, his nose now numb. Damn it, Sengge made it look easy!

"Hmm, you're not ready to block that kind of heavy swing one-handed." Wilmarina said constructively. "Just stick to two hands for now, and we'll get back to that one when you're stronger!"

Alex nodded while trying to rub some feeling back into his nose. But Wilmarina did not wait for him.

"Now, Alex, I want you to practice your lunges! Your goal is to get past my parrying and cut me at least once! Don't worry, I'll go a little easy on you!"

"But the enemy won't be going easy on me!" Alex retorted.

Wilmarina's eyes widened a little, but then she smiled an evil, wicked smile, her spaded tail twirling behind her in eager anticipation. "Oh? In that case, try to get past the swordplay of House Noscrim's finest!" Then, with an elegant swish of her blade, she invited him to attack.

Alex raised his sword and lunged forward, but Wilmarina was ready for him, easily deflecting his blade with such speed that her sword almost appeared invisible. Undaunted, Alex tried again, with the same result. Even after throwing in various other moves in an attempt to make himself an opening, Wilmarina deflected all his lunges.

After several minutes or so of this sequence of lunges and deflections, Alex was bathed in sweat, having failed to get anywhere close to the Dark Hero. As he breathed heavily, he silently cursed himself for escalating the challenge.

Maybe…I can try what Sengge did against the Khan? A feint to throw her off while I go for the kill?

Filled with newfound energy, Alex raised his sword and feinted a strike towards Wilmarina's head. The Dark Hero was quick to respond, her blade already traveling up to meet his. But then, Alex pulled his blade back at the last moment and lunged right at the succubus' chest…

…only for Wilmarina to quickly swing her own blade down and parry it before it could hit its mark. Alex's shoulders slumped, feeling frustrated, weak, and defeated from this latest failure.

"Hey, don't look so sad!" Wilmarina exclaimed. "That was a decent feint! Predictable, but decent! Where did you learn such a move?"

"I emulated it from a Tazchek warrior." Alex replied, trying his best to smile. "He was extremely skilled with the blade- without his help, me and Druella wouldn't have succeeded in our mission!"

"Hmm, you must really respect him if you're trying to emulate him!" Wilmarina said. Then her face turned a little serious. "But Alex, it is bad form to emulate another swordwielder's move without first understanding it and learning it on your own. Mimicry will only take you so far."

Alex sighed. "Yes, I understand. I'm just really at a loss at how to successfully get a lunge at you."

Wilmarina tilted her head a little and gave him an inquisitive gaze. "There's more to it than just that, isn't there?"

Wow, she read me like a book.

"Yes, there is." Alex replied, his head bowed low. "While I was able to help out Druella with my mage abilities in the Tazchekian Steppe, seeing all those blade-wielding warriors reminded me of how far away I am in skill before I can even dare to challenge one of them without getting my head chopped off. I do feel stronger than when we started our sparring sessions, but I still feel pretty inadequate."

Wilmarina studied him for a moment, then gave him a warm smile. "Hmm, you really are devoted to your desire to fight alongside Lady Druella. Don't worry, Alex, I can tell you personally that Druella is really touched by how hard you work to keep up with her. And so long as you continue to put in that work, you'll one day be a hero capable of rivaling even me!"

The Dark Hero then put a finger to her lip as if she suddenly had a thought, then continued to speak. "How about this, Alex? I'll teach you a special move, one that few individuals outside of Lescatie know how to perform. Are you interested?"

Alex looked up, eyes wide. Then he gave a sharp nod.

"Wonderful!" Wilmarina exclaimed. "This is a technique used for disarming your opponent and leaving them helpless. I teach it to Dark Knights if they're ever in the rare occasion where they've lost their mamono realm silver blade and are forced to use a normal weapon against an opponent. That way, no one gets hurt! Now raise your blade, and I'll demonstrate!"

Alex obliged, eager to learn this supposedly special move.

"Now, throw some lunges at me, but do it slowly so you can see my every action!" Wilmarina instructed.

Alex nodded before throwing in the requested lunges. After a few parried strikes, Wilmarina then pulled her blade above his during a parry before twisting it counter-clockwise, pushing herself forward until the hilt was nearly hitting his blade. The suddenness of the movement twisted Alex's wrists, and the discomfort was enough to cause him to drop his sword.

"See what I did there?" Wilmarina asked. "By pushing down your opponent's blade during a parry, with enough leverage you can twist his wrist enough to disarm him."

Wait, that's it? That's the special attack? Just a simple disarming move?

"I understand how it works." Alex replied. "But is that really it? It looks pretty simple, is this really such a rare move?"

"Here's the secret, Alex." WIlmarina then leaned over and whispered in his ear. "The Order, along with many heroes, rarely learn about disarming their opponents. The only 'disarming' they care about is looting their opponent's corpse. That's why it's such a rare move, and why they're thrown off guard when they encounter it." She then scoffed a little. "Hmmph, so much for the mercy of the Chief God, those hypocrites."

Wilmarina straightened up. "Now, let's spend the rest of our session practicing that move! Begin!"

The next two hours or so saw Alex trying his best to twist Wilmarina's sword out of her hands. At first, his clumsy attempts went nowhere as the succubus easily broke out of his parries. But after much trial and error, he was finally able to make Wilmarina's blade clatter to the ground a few times.

"Excellent work, Alex!" Wilmarina praised him with a wide smile on her face before giving him a headpat. "At this rate I might make you an honorary Dark Knight!"

Dark Knight? Now that would be a cool title.

Thank you for teaching this move to me!" Alex replied, "I feel a little more prepared now!"

"You still have much to learn Alex, but you'll get there!" Wilmarina reassured him. "Now, I'd love to train longer, but me and Elt have to leave for Dragonia soon! Queen Deonora's birthday is coming up soon, and the entire realm is preparing for a grand celebration!"

The Dark Hero turned and prepared to leave.

"Wait Wilmarina, there's one more thing I wanted to ask you!" Alex yelled after a thought suddenly came to his mind.

Wilmarina turned to face him. "What is it, Alex?"

"Remember when we first met, you told me to talk to you whenever I need someone to talk to? Well, today I'm calling in that offer."

Wilmarina's eyes widened a little, but she sheathed her blade and walked back over to him.

"Yes, I do remember saying that." she replied with a smile. "It's okay Alex, you can ask me anything. I wouldn't turn down a friend after all."

"Well, Wilmarina," Alex tried to word his next few sentences carefully, "I plan on talking to Druella soon about a very delicate topic, and I'm not sure how she'll react. There is a good chance she might get angry, even furious at me, and that fear of getting her angry is what's holding me back from finally spilling it all to her."

He breathed a deep sigh. "So, I was wondering if you had any idea how to 'soften the blow', so to speak."

Wilmarina narrowed her eyes a little. "Alex, have you been cheating on Lady Druella? You better not have, or else I'll run you through here and then go off to tell her the terrible news!"

"Wait, what!" Alex yelled, utterly flabbergasted. "No, that's not it at all! I'd never betray Druella like that! It's more a conflict of ideals, but I'm afraid I can't tell you what it is exactly."

Wimarina's expression softened, and she put a hand on Alex's right shoulder. "Oh. I'm sorry for doubting you, Alex. As for your little dilemma, I would say it's better to tell her directly. No misdirections, no guessing games. Lady Druella always appreciates a little bluntness."

"That may be so," Alex replied. "But I'm still worried about her reaction."

"Alex," Wilmarina asked him, "do you think that fights don't happen between monsters and their husbands?"

"Oh, um…" Alex wasn't sure how to respond.

"While we monsters may love our dear husbands unconditionally and shower them with pleasure, and then feel them return their love every time we have sex, it is still a relationship. And like the relationships of humans, conflict can still happen. It is never terrible enough to cause a monster to leave their husband- that would be unthinkable. But some disagreements just can't be washed away through sex."

Wilmarina closed her eyes in contemplation. "Even my dear husband, Elt, and I occasionally have our scuffles, but we're always able to talk and resolve them. Even the Mamono Lord herself has legendary arguments with her husband! One time, they were yelling so loudly they collapsed an entire spirit realm out of sheer frustration! So don't worry, Alex. Just tell Druella what's bothering you, and even if she gets angry, remember that it's only transient!"

Alex stared at her for a few seconds, surprised at the idea that even a friendly succubus like Wilmarina could have scuffles with her mate. Then, filled with newfound determination, he nodded, ready to finally talk to Druella about putting an end to her rampant, unsustainable conquests and monsterization.

Wilmarina is right, it's best to jump into this argument cold-turkey! And at least I have Steylia and the Tazchek as examples to smooth it over. But that little tidbit about the Mamono Lord destroying a Spirit Realm during an argument does have me a little worried- I don't want Druella to accidentally flatten Lescatie or something.

Wilmarina then leaned in a little closer. "Though, if you do want to 'soften the blow' a little, I have a little secret that is always 100% effective! Interested?"

Alex eagerly nodded, and Wilmarina gave him a wide grin as she whispered in his ear.

"For us monsters, one of the greatest feelings in the world is feeling our husband pour his delicious essence within us and fill our bodies and souls with lovely exuberance! But there is one thing that can triumph even that feeling- hearing our husbands say 'I love you' out of the blue, without any prior seduction or sex. Just a simple, heartfelt declaration that they love us, that they never want to leave us- that triumphs even the most delicious of mana!"

Huh, I never expected that. But okay, I'll tell Druella that I love her, and that'll make it far easier to…

Alex paused for a moment, realizing that he had to first confirm something with himself- did he love Druella?

Well, she has been nothing but sweet and kind to me, and she has pulled me out of danger multiple times. And together, we've been able to save entire kingdoms! My life is far more interesting with her in it- I'd never give her up! And I'll admit it, I can't picture myself not being in her ever-welcoming arms, her warmth surrounding me while we have sex. But is that really love?

If Alex were affected by mamono mana like a normal human being, the answer would be easy as his entire mentality would be altered to accept it. But he wasn't, and that's why he was currently in this little quandary.

I'll have to think about this a little. Just telling her "I love you" without meaning it would be even worse than just keeping silent.

Wilmarina straightened up. "Well, I do wish you luck on your conversation with Druella! And any other adventures you'll be going on! Once I get back from Dragonia, we can resume our training with gusto!"

Then, after giving Alex one final headpat, she sprinted away, leaving Alex alone in the training field with nothing but his thoughts.

[]

The streets of Lescatie were particularly busy today, with monsters and their husbands bustling around hand-in-hand as they shopped at the various market stalls, ate meals at the restaurants, and enjoyed all the other amenities offered within the city. As Alex walked through the cobbled streets, he could not help but observe all the interactions going on around him. Despite living in Lescatie for a while now, there was always something new to see.

Wait, how long have I been here? Alex thought to himself as he watched a Glacies prepare some snow cones for a trio of imps. It feels like just yesterday that I fell asleep while writing a research paper only to wake up in this crazy world. I wonder if my professors miss me. I wonder if my parents miss me…

"Excuse me mister, but are you Lady Druella's husband?" said a high-pitched voice.

Alex had to look down to find the speaker. Looking up at him were a trio of mamono children- a white-haired Yuki-Onna, a golden-eared Youko, and a fiery-eyed Hellhound pup.

"Why yes, yes I am!" Alex replied while smiling. "You can call me Alex!"

"Hah, I told you it was him!" The hellhound pup yelled with a grin. "I sometimes sneak into the training field and watch him spar with Wilmarina!"

"Oh, don't mind her." The yuki-onna replied. "We're just here to thank you, um Alex." The yuki-onna giggled at the sound of his name.

"Thank me? What for?"

The youko pulled out a metal cup from behind her. Inside the cup were dozens of golden-yellow straws made of potato, lightly salted on top and with a pleasant aroma.

Oh, I see that Castle Lescatie's kitchen recipes are leaking into the rest of the city.

In an attempt to regain some aspects of his old life, Alex had taught the kitchen staff how to create some of his favorite meals. Nothing too fancy- he was never a great cook. But French Fries were simple enough that the monster chefs easily caught on to the idea of chopping up a potato and throwing it into boiling oil.

"We want to thank you for introducing such a delicious snack!" the youko replied. "It's so simple, yet so tasty at the same time! Please, show Lady Druella more tasty treats!"

Well alright, I can do that!" Alex replied, a little touched at the idea of being a food ambassador for his world. "But don't eat too much, at least not without exercising afterwards."

The three mamono children all nodded before running off giggling. The encounter improved Alex's mood as he could now see that he was starting to make an impact on the city, if only a minor one.

Now, let's see if the Lescatie chefs can recreate a calzone.

Alex continued walking a little longer before stopping. The path to the castle was blocked by a crowd of mamono, so many that he could not see what they were watching. He could hear it though- erotic sighs and moans, hips colliding…

"Hey, what's going on over there!" he yelled to a thunderbird perched on a nearby street sign.

"Some traveling Amazons are performing a sex show!" the thunderbird replied while grinning.

"And they're blocking the whole street?!"

"If ya want, I can carry you up here for a better view!"

"Um, no thanks." Alex replied as he turned and went off to a side street. I guess I'll have to take an alternate route today.

As Alex walked by Lescatie's many buildings, he pondered how he'll broach the topic of moderating Druella's rampant drive for monsterization. Besides mentioning Steylia, the Tazchek, and the general benefits of peaceful resolutions, he also had to tell her to tone it down on monsterizing women, both individually and in large quantities.

"Druella, you need to slow down with your conquests! You're putting humanity at risk!" Hmm, straight to the point, but will that be enough? Maybe also "while pleasure and love are great and all, humans love having their independence, the free will to choose to struggle for their goals! Denying that is tyranny!" No, calling her a tyrant might not go well-

BUMP

"Hey, watch where you're going you clumsy human!" yelled the Lizardman Alex had accidentally walked into.

"Oh, sorry!" Alex apologized. The lizardman only muttered under her breath as she walked away from him. As Alex regained his bearings, he realized that he was now standing in front of a building he had never been to before.

The exterior of the building resembled a gothic cathedral, but the brickwork was of a deep purple color, with even darker windows that couldn't possibly provide much natural light. At the top of the cathedral were dozens of black spires, with a purplish-blue light glowing within them. The entire structure reminded Alex of the Duomo di Milano, or at least some bizarre, alternate dimension version of the Duomo.

Strange, purplish-blue smoke emanated from the entrance of the cathedral, or at least Alex thought it was smoke. When he inhaled some of the bizarre vapor, his body temperature elevated, his breathing grew heavy, and he began wondering how good it would feel to get back to Druella, how pleasant it would be just forget his worries and fall into her waiting embrace-

Alex quickly backed away from the entrance, realizing that what he was breathing in was a powerful aphrodisiac. As he breathed heavily and tried to clear his mind, he realized what this building was for.

I recognize that aphrodisiac from the centaur herd! It's just like that one yurt with the purplish color scheme. So this a Church to the-

"Welcome, young human." came a soft voice directly behind him. "Have you come here to learn about our God?"

It took all of Alex's willpower not to shout. Hearing someone unexpectedly talk to him, almost whispering directly into his ear, freaked him out greatly. After taking a moment to let his heart calm down, he turned around to discover the identity of this mystery speaker.

Standing there was a woman with pale blonde hair, purple eyes, and pointy, elfen ears. Judging by the spaded tail swishing behind her, she appeared to be some sort of succubus. There were some differences, however- instead of batlike wings she had plumes of black feathers jutting behind her hips, though they appeared far too small to ever allow flight.

The outfit she wore resembled that of a Catholic nun, but with long slits that allowed her ample thighs to be visible. The outfit also clung to her body as if to show off all her curves, with her cleavage exposed through a boob window in the shape of an inverted cross. Finally, she wore a large, dark habit that almost resembled a bonnet, and blue adornments resembling chains on the cuffs of her sleeves and below her neck.

She is either the living embodiment of blasphemy, or I've just met a Dark Priest of the Fallen God.

"Um, no, not really." Alex replied, not wanting to get anywhere near anyone involved with the Fallen God. Even reading about her followers and their commitment to depravity creeped him out.

"Oh, but you do." The Dark Priest said in a serene, pleasant voice. "I can sense it within you. The curiosity, the desire to learn all of the world's hidden stories and secrets. If you just follow me, you will learn things even the greatest historians would only dream of knowing."

how did she know I'm into history?

"Listen, lady. I'm sort of in a hurry to get back to Castle Lescatie, so I can't stick around. Besides, I'm already married, so I'm afraid you'll have to find someone else to, um, convert!"

The Dark Priest only smiled a little more. "Fear not, Alex, husband to Druella- I will not steal you from your beloved. The Fallen God welcomes all to her, even those who already found their soulmates."

How did she- no, I'm not a complete unknown in this city. Maybe she heard about Druella's new husband?

"Even so, I'm not interested in-"

"Oh, but Alex, perhaps you will also learn something about yourself. Your mission. Your purpose. The true reason you are here."

The Dark Priest raised her right hand and invited him to take it. "Do not be afraid. I promise that our little tour will be most brisk."

A little battle raged in Alex's mind- his sense of curiosity vs his sense of getting the hell out of here. Unfortunately, his curiosity won.

"Alright, but it better be a quick tour! And only if you get rid of that aphrodisiac."

The Dark Priest smiled and waved a hand, and in a moment the purplish smoke vanished.

"Now, shall we go together?"

I am so going to regret this. Alex thought to himself as he followed the Dark Priest into the Cathedral.

[]

The interior of the Church to the Fallen God was dimly lit, with purple-flamed torches providing a paltry amount of illumination. Purplish smoke wafted in the air, but the Dark Priest did not allow any to go near him. As he walked behind her, all he could hear around him was a bizarre mixture of religious fervor and lewd fornication, the chanting of prayers and the moans and cries of carnal ecstasy. Hearing erotic sighs collide with zealous prayer, two things that did not belong together, made his head spin from the contradictions.

"So, you're a Dark Priest of the Fallen God, right?" Alex asked, trying to break through this bizarre atmosphere. "What is it that you guys do here exactly? What's your goal?"

The Dark Priest turned towards him. "Why, Alex, our goals are no more complex than to preach God's divine message to the world. To lead willing followers down the path of depravity, and free them from their earthly tethers so they may descend into a paradise of unending bliss!"

The Dark Priest's cheeks flushed a deep red. "But our greatest desire is to find a man we may personally lead downward to corruption. To indoctrinate their body with pleasure, to let our souls become one as we drown in each other! And then, to fulfill our God's mission, and awaken in eternal Pandemonium!"

"Pandemonium- oh, that's the spirit realm your God resides in, right?"

The Dark Priest let out a small giggle. "Ah, so you are already aware of our final destination? Yes, Pandemonium is the reward that awaits us for our loyal service! A realm where time remains still, where love and pleasure will never come to an end!"

Where love and pleasure will never come to an end? Oh, that's very similar to the utopian dreams of someone I know very intimately. Are they related in any way? I sincerely hope not.

The way the Dark Priest's eyes lit up when she talked about Pandemonium only served to further creep him out. She was completely, utterly devoted to her God's mission.

"Okay, so that's the goal of you and your fellow Dark Priests." Alex said. "What about the Fallen God herself? What is she trying to achieve?"

The Dark Priest giggled. "Why, our God desires for nothing but to see all humans and monsters falling together in pleasure! For millenia, she watched as humans and monsters battled each other in a never ending cycle of violence, helpless to do anything to stop it. Then the actions of the current Mamono Lord opened her eyes to the solution, and she understood. By basking in mamono mana and descending into pure depravity, she discovered the secret to true liberation from suffering! And now we spread that message to all, so all may fall like her."

"I assume then that you guys are not fans of The Order?" Alex asked.

The Dark Priest almost appeared to scowl a little. "The Chief God and her followers are fools who live austere lives without any joy or purpose. Do they really think that salvation can be achieved by serving that uncaring God and ascending to her heavenly realm? No, they are all wrong. Salvation is a descent, an unending fall downwards into depravity with your beloved. And unlike their God, our God cares for us all. She rewards those who deserve it, and forgives those who transgress against her. Truly, she is a far more merciful God than the so-called Chief God could ever hope to be!"

The Dark Priest motioned him to continue to follow her, and Alex obliged. Though he was really wondering if he was better off running to the entrance.

Eventually, they got to a set of doors to the main chamber of the Church, and Alex could hear the strange blend of devotion and procreation emanating loudly within. Then, the doors swung open, and Alex gasped at the sight before him.

The chamber was massive, far too massive; it was as if the church was larger inside than outside. Inside the dimly lit room were dozens of Dark Priests, Dark Angels, Dark Valkyries, and other scattered species of mamono, many of them possessing human husbands, all in various stages of intercourse. The Dark Priests held their hands in prayer as they had sex with their lovers, chanting jubilations to the Fallen God even as they screamed in orgasm. There were various baskets in the midst of this holy orgy, all of them filled with a blue, teardrop-shaped fruit. Occasionally, a Dark Priest, Valkyrie, or Angel would snatch one from the basket and share it with their husband, gleefully devouring the fruit even as they continued to indulge in one another. Combined with the dim lighting and purple smoke, the orgy held an otherworldly feel to it that made Alex feel queasy.

What in the f- okay. This is way too much for me! This tour is officially over!

The Dark Priest knelt to one of the baskets and picked up one of the fruits. She smiled as she offered it to Alex.

"Um, no thanks." Alex replied. "I don't want to spoil dinner. Speaking of dinner, I should really get going, or I'll be late for a date!"

"Oh, but I can sense you still have some questions, Alex. And I am willing to give you answers."

Alex did have one question, one that bothered him since entering the Fallen God's church. After all, the ideology of the Fallen God reminded him of a certain someone…

"Okay, I do have one question- what is Druella's relationship with the Fallen God? Does she worship her? Are they allies?"

The Dark Priest shook her head. "Alas, Lady Druella has declined all entreaties to join us in our lascivious crusade. She is entirely devoted to her own cause."

Alex breathed a sigh of relief. Thank goodness, or else there would be no chance for me to reason with her.

"But", the Dark Priest continued. "Our God is quite fond of Lady Druella and her earnest quest to expand the realms of mamono. She cares little about belief or loyalty- all those who serve her, even indirectly, will have a chance to enter Pandemonium."

She then leaned over and whispered in his ear. "Even those who are completely unaware they're serving her."

"Now, would you like to learn about your purpose, Alex?" the Dark Priest asked while smiling at him serenely.

"No, I'm good! Please, lead me to the exit!" Alex responded in an almost pleading voice.

The Dark Priest frowned a little. "Are you frightened, Alex? That was never my intention. But very well, I will lead you back outside."

Never your intention? Well, lady, you suck at sticking to your intentions.

Alex followed the Dark Priest back the way they came, eager to escape this depraved parody of a church. When he saw the eternal evening light of Lescatie, he breathed a sigh of relief.

"Now, Alex, I do hope you enjoyed your little tour. And remind Lady Druella that she is always welcome to finally join us to achieve pleasurable rapture. Especially in times such as these."

"Oh, I'll be sure to tell her!" Alex lied. "Um, have a good rest of your day!" Then he hurriedly walked down the cathedrals stairs and turned towards Castle Lescatie.

"Farewell Alex, traveler from another world!" the Dark Priest yelled behind him. "The Fallen God is eagerly observing your journey!"

What. Did. She. Just. Say?

Alex stopped dead in his tracks, his heart thumping in his chest like a gatling gun. His blood went cold, and he shivered even in Lescatie's pleasant outside temperature. His breathing grew quick, and it took all of his remaining nerves not to hyperventilate on the spot.

How does she- Alex quickly turned around, but the Dark Priest was gone. Instead, all he could see was the Cathedral to the Fallen God, its shadow falling over his shaking form.

How the hell does she know that I'm from another world!?

It was a secret Alex had only told to Druella, who had promised not to tell anyone. And Alex trusted that Druella would not betray her word- he had to, or else he'd have absolutely no one left to trust.

But then, who told her? Was it the Fallen God? Why is the Fallen God interested in me?! Wait, but that means…

Alex remembered something from his conversation with Ares. While the God of Fighting was certainly powerful and farseeing, she was not omnipotent. Even she did not know about Alex's true origins, or why his mana was so different from the native humans of the world. She couldn't have seen Alex's arrival in the world of MGE either, or else all those questions would already be answered.

So, if the Fallen God knew about him and his true origins, that means…

She has been watching me from the very start.

Alex shivered even more. Suddenly, Lescatie didn't seem so pleasant and welcoming anymore. The purple clouds of mana only reminded him of the cathedral's interior, and its red moon resembled a glowing, all-seeing eye.

But why, why me? Doesn't she realize my goals are sort of the opposite of hers? Why is she so interested in my journey!? Why? Why Why Why Why Why Why Why Why WHY!?

"Alex, is that you? Are you feeling alright?"

A concerned voice broke through his melting mind. Looking up, Alex saw a familiar face- Primera Concerto. The werewolf-elf looked at him with a concerned look in her eyes, and she placed a paw on his forehead.

"You're shivering so much, and you look pale. Did you catch some sort of illness, Alex?"

"N-no." Alex managed to reply. "It's just…" he briefly glanced over at the Cathedral to the Fallen God.

Primera noticed the glance, and her gaze hardened. "Did those Dark Priests do something to you? Don't worry, you can tell me. If they hurt you in any way, I'll be sure to tell Sasha to put her fellow creeps in line!"

"No, it's nothing like that. It's just…" Alex trailed off, he couldn't really explain the truth to her, no matter how much it ate away at him.

But wait, there is one person I can talk to, someone who'd understand. I need to get back to her before I fall into a total panic attack.

"Could you lead me back to Castle Lescatie?"

Fortunately, Primera didn't try to press him any further. "Okay, just hold onto my paw and I'll lead you there."

Alex nodded, never letting go of Primera's paw until they got back to Castle Lescatie. As she led him through the castle halls, they eventually encountered Druella near the entrance to the throne room.

"Primera, this is an unexpected surprise! And Alex, my sweet husband, I'm glad to see you back! I am ready to head to the restaurant when you are!" Druella greeted him with a smile on her face.

But then her smile faded when she saw how pale he was along with the fearful expression on his face. Before she could ask him what was wrong, Primera walked over to her and whispered in her ear. Druella's eyes widened a little, then she nodded. Primera then bowed before turning to leave, but not before giving Alex one more headpat and an encouraging smile. Then, it was just Alex and Druella in the castle hall.

"Alex, darling?" Druella knelt down and looked at him, concern in her eyes. "Is something wrong? Did something happen?"

"Druella, can we cancel tonight's date?" Alex replied in a quiet voice. "Can we just dine here in the castle? Just us? I really don't feel like going anywhere tonight."

Druella looked surprised for a moment, but then she nodded. "Very well, my husband, we can stay here. But please promise me that you'll tell me what's wrong?"

Alex nodded. Druella then smiled before standing up and taking him by the hand, leading him off to one of Castle Lescatie's many dining rooms.

[]

Just what exactly has upset him so much? If anyone in the city hurt him, they'll discover that even my mercy has limits!

Druella watched her husband with concern as he sat across from him at the little dining room table. They were in one of Lescatie's many dining rooms, with a fireplace burning to their right. Surrounding the fireplace were several chairs and a loveseat. Alex picked at his food, barely even taking a bite. This also concerned Druella, since he had ordered one of his favorite dishes.

What were they called again? Oh yes, "French fries".

Alex had taught the kitchen staff of Castle Lescatie how to create this simple fried snack invented by one of the cultures of his world, and it caught on with all the resident monsters of the castle. They were also becoming quite popular within the city itself- already there were several new stands in Lescatie's market exclusively selling French fries. When Druella tried some, she had proclaimed the French to be culinary geniuses who knew how to make the simplest things delicious. But then Alex confused her by stating that the French did not even invent French fries.

Why name something after a people who had nothing to do with creating it? Alex's world is full of bizarre contradictions.

Druella then looked back at her husband, for he was her main concern at the moment. Before she left, Primera told her that she found Alex standing frozen in front of the Cathedral of the Fallen God, shaken by some sort of unknown revelation.

Just what exactly happened? If those Dark Priests were responsible for traumatizing him, they'll soon find their lease in the city suddenly revoked!

"Alex, you've been picking at your food for fifteen minutes. Could you please tell me what's going on? If you don't want to yet, that's okay- I won't get upset with you. But I do not like seeing you so frightened like this."

Alex put down his fork and sighed before looking up at her. His face was still pallid, his expression nervous.

"Druella, what is your opinion of the Fallen God?" Alex asked in a small voice.

Druella's eyebrows raised. "Fallen God? Alex, what happened at that Cathedral to give you such a newfound interest in her?"

"I'll get to that later." Alex replied firmly. "I just want to know your opinion of her."

Druella pondered Alex's question for a moment. In truth, she was not entirely sure what to make of the Fallen God and her zealous adherents.

Her worshippers have proven to be useful in battle, especially the Dark Valkyries. And I admit, their pleasure-fueled ideology does have its attractive qualities, and they've often been instrumental in spreading the mamono realm. But the way they pray so zealously to their God…it reminds me far too much of The Order. No wonder my mother refuses all attempts to make the Fallen God the patron deity of the Mamono Realm.

"Alex, while the Fallen God has proven to be a useful ally to both me and my mother in the past, and we do appreciate her efforts in advancing the mamono cause, I recognize no higher authority other than my mother. And while my mother is willing to occasionally engage in business with the Fallen God and her worshippers, she would never, ever, submit to her. And neither will I. Besides, what use do I have for her faith? Eternal Life in Pandemonium? My lifespan is already infinite, and soon yours will soon be too. And there are far too many places to see and things to do in this world for me to abandon it. Finally, if I did desire to reside in a spirit realm where time no longer moves, I could create one myself. Perhaps that could be our little retirement plan if we ever tire of the world, Alex?"

Alex seemed almost relieved at her answer. "So you're not involved with her? Thank goodness! But about that part about creating a spirit realm, is that really within your ability?"

"Why, of course Alex!" Druella replied with pride. "It would not be an easy spell, we would have to have nonstop sex for weeks, even months, for me to gain enough mana to create the realm. But yes, I can make a place just for us, if you ever desire one."

Alex shook his head, though he was smiling a little. "Eh, not anytime soon, there's so much to still see in this world! We'd be missing out on so much if we just left it!"

Druella's heart fluttered- seeing her husband smile always made her feel jubilant.

But then Alex's smile faded, and he returned to a morose expression. "But, there's a reason I asked you about the Fallen God. And it wasn't just out of simple curiosity. But before I go further into that- Druella, have you told anyone that I came from another world?"

Druella's eyes widened- this was yet another unexpected question.

"Alex, I have remained faithful to your desires and have not told anyone of your origin. Not even my closest subordinates know of your secret. I have not even told my mother, though it is likely I will have to eventually out of duty. She is quite interested in you, by the way."

Alex nodded. "Thank you, Druella. But to return to the Fallen God…"

Alex then began shivering a little, despite being close to the fire. Druella could not take it any longer- seeing her husband in distress like this was unbearable! Standing up from the table, she walked over to Alex and pulled him into a tight embrace, her wings covering him.

"It's okay Alex, you don't have to tell me if it distresses you too much. How about we just cuddle by the fire and-"

"Druella, she knows." Alex suddenly replied. "She knows! The Fallen God knows that I'm from another world! I don't know how, and I don't know what her intentions are towards me, but she knows!"

Druella stiffened, utterly shaken by this unexpected news. The Fallen God…interested in her husband?

"Alex, how did you find this out?" Druella asked, hoping that her husband was mistaken.

But unfortunately, he wasn't. "Through one of her Dark Priests. She openly called me the 'traveler from another world'. Druella, what does the Fallen God want from me?"

Druella pursed her lips. Although she was trying her best to remain calm for her husband's sake- on the inside, her mind was teaming with anger, worry, and confusion.

The Fallen God, interested in my Alex? Is it because of his mana? Or is there something bigger going on?

No, whatever the true reason is, HOW DARE SHE MESS WITH MY HUSBAND! I swear to you, Fallen God, if you try anything towards Alex, I will ask my mother to evict all of your followers from the Mamono Realm. They can wander around at The Order's mercy for all I care!

And then, I promise that I will personally pay you a visit in Pandemonium and remind you just how foolish it is to mess with a lilim's husband. Alex belongs to me, no one else!

Druella then looked down at her husband- her frightened, confused husband- and hugged him a little tighter.

"I do not know why the Fallen God is interested in you, Alex, but I promise you this- I will not let her touch even a single hair of yours! If she tries anything, I will tear down Pandemonium itself to rescue you. For this, you have my word."

Alex finally managed to look up at her, his face no longer pallid. With a small smile, he nodded and nuzzled a little closer to her.

The two stayed that way for several minutes, enjoying the warmth of each other's company.

"Alex, do you want to move closer to the fire?" Druella asked, finally breaking the silence.

"Oh, yeah, go ahead," he replied.

Druella carefully picked her husband up and carried him over the loveseat, where she positioned him so she could hold him as he laid in front of her. With her wings still covering him, blankets were unnecessary. Together, the two watched as the flames darted around within the fireplace.

"Say Druella," Alex asked after a minute, "I noticed how you mentioned that you recognize no higher authority other than your mother. You must really respect her, don't you?"

Druella nodded. "Indeed. What my mother managed to accomplish to achieve her dream, a dream where monsters and humans can live together in peaceful harmony, is nothing short of beautiful. Overcoming her own monstrous nature, seizing the title of Mamono Lord, swaying The Order's greatest hero- my father- to her side…I only wish I could live up to her legacy."

Alex lifted his head up to face hers. "Is that why you're so devoted to spreading the Mamono Realm further? To help your mother achieve her dream, and to contribute to it in your own way?"

My My, Alex. You truly do know me, my sweet little hero.

"You are exactly right, Alex. Everything I do is to bring my mother's dream a little closer to reality, so the cycle of violence may finally come to an end, and humans and monsters can be united together in an eternally pleasurable peace." She nuzzled against his head a little. "Fufu, perhaps you will be my own great hero, just like how my mother met my father."

Alex smiled a little. "He also seems like an interesting guy. Will I ever get to meet them both?"

"Oh, you will Alex." Druella replied. "While my mother is aware of the human stigma towards the 'mother-in-law' and occasionally plays the trope as a prank, there has never been a husband of a lilim she did not accept. And I personally believe she would grow quite fond of you."

Then Druella had an idea, something that would fully distract Alex from any lingering worries. "Alex, would you like to hear the story of how I first learned the true scope of my mother's dream? I was still a very young lilim, but I feel that you might enjoy it."

Alex nodded. "Of course! I'd love to hear more about your past."

Druella smiled at him, then began her story.

"I was born only a few decades after the transformation of monsters to their current form and my mother's battle with the Chief God, early enough for the previous era to still be in human living memory. I had already heard stories of the elder days from my father, but when I was ten…

[]

Druella ran around her tabletop battle set, eagerly rearranging her figurines as she simulated mock battles between mamono and The Order. The young lilim always enjoyed hearing about the exploits of her mother's army as they battled against the forces of The Order, so her father had a tabletop battlefield custom made for her and placed into her bedroom, where she played with it daily.

"And then, the Vampire Princess hypnotizes the Order Captain, and the entire human army lays down their arms!" Druella squealed as she knocked over a painted cross-bearing soldier with a vampire figurine. "Then she took him back to the castle and made him hers forever!"

A knock on the door interrupted her imagination. "Come in," Druella called out.

The door opened, and another lilim entered- her older sister, though she certainly didn't look like it. The Mamono Lord's third daughter had chosen to keep the form of a young girl, and she definitely acted the part, being capricious and prone to pranks. She had also begun calling herself the "Queen of Hearts" and would spend her days planning out a realm where "up becomes down and anything can happen!"

"Druella, mother wants to speak with you!" she yelled out with a high-pitched voice.

Druella looked up from her game. "She does? This isn't one of your pranks again, is it? It took me forever to get out of that little maze realm you concocted!"

"Sorry!" the Queen of Hearts replied, though she didn't sound genuine. "I had to test it on somebody! But no, no pranks this time, mother really wants to speak with you. She's waiting for you in the conference room."

Druella stood up, warily watching her sister as she left her bedroom and walked down the halls of her mother's fortress. The fortress was expansive, and the Mamono Lord was always adding new wings and halls as the Royal Makai continued to grow in population. But despite that, Druella never got lost.

Eventually, she got to the conference room, where her mother was waiting for her. Like the rest of her sisters, Druella had inherited many of her mother's traits- white hair, horns, red eyes with black sclera, and large, white wings and a spaded tail. Unlike her daughters, however, the Mamono Lord had three sets of wings instead of one, and her horns were far longer. A faint white glow surrounded her at all times; anyone who met her would immediately know they were standing in front of the most powerful monster in existence.

"Thank you for coming, my daughter." The Mamono Lord greeted her with a smile. "I'm glad to see that the Queen of Hearts did not warp you to the shopping district this time."

"Nope, she went easy on me this time!" Druella replied. "But you're also calling her by her invented title now?"

Her mother laughed. "If she really does want to be the Queen of her own little realm, then I might as well indulge her." Then her expression grew a little more serious. "But I did not call you over to talk about her, Druella. There is something important I have to tell you regarding our Realm, and the future of monsters and humans. First, tell me what you know about the world before me and your father transformed all of mamonokind."

It was a story Druella knew all too well, for her father had told her plenty of stories of the previous era. Monsters had once been violent creatures who gleefully slaughtered any humans in their path. There were exceptions of course- some succubi eventually chose to keep their prey alive rather than immediately drain them to death. But overall, it was a world of hardship and suffering, suffering that would only escalate whenever a monster became powerful enough to seize the title of Mamono Lord.

The idea that monsters once hurt and killed humans horrified the little lilim. She loved humans, always paying close attention to any monster that returned with a new husband to the Royal Makai. Plenty of them were scared at first, scared at being brought to a new, unfamiliar realm. But they always became happy after a while, enjoying every moment with their new mamono wives. Seeing such fragile, scared little humans finally finding safety and happiness always filled Druella with joy.

I only wish that all humans can find that same happiness, and be protected from all harm.

"Before you and father, monsters and humans were enemies." Druella replied. "It was an unending cycle of death where humans would grow strong and force monsters back, a Mamono Lord would rise and drive humanity to near extinction, and then new Heroes would emerge to take the Mamono Lord down and repeat the cycle. But then, you and father brought the cycle to an end, transforming monsters and defeating the Chief God in battle!"

The Mamono Lord smiled. "I see that you've paid close attention to your father's stories. That is good, that would make explaining everything easier. But Druella, I did not end the cycle, I merely halted it. The Chief God was only wounded, not defeated, and she will eventually recover and seek her revenge."

"Then you and father will beat her again!" Druella exclaimed.

"Perhaps we will," The Mamono Lord replied. "But that is not what we are here to discuss. Druella, you may be aware of the cycle of violence that once existed between humans and monsters, but are you aware of why that cycle existed?"

Druella frowned and shook her head.

"My dear daughter, there is a reason why previous Mamono Lords always rose when humanity was peaking in power and population. It was because the Chief God incited them too."

Druella froze, utterly confused by that statement. "But mother, the Chief God is our enemy! Why would she cause the rise of Mamono Lords if she hates monsters?"

"Because, unlike what The Order claims is the truth, we mamono are all creations of the Chief God, or at least the first deity to bear that title. We were just parts of a greater system, a system designed to keep humanity in check and cull their population whenever it grew too large. Then, when the work was done, the Chief God would choose a hero among the remaining humans to end the culling, and thus the cycle repeated."

Druella could not believe what she was hearing. "But that's horrible! Why would the Chief God harm her own followers like that? Why not allow humans and monsters to prosper together?"

"While the current Chief God might deluge you with excuses of how it's all a necessary evil to keep humanity from growing too powerful and to prevent overpopulation, the true reason is simple- control. If humanity were to be left alone, they would no longer need the Chief God, or any God for that matter. That is why she allows the cycle of violence to continue."

The Mamono Lord then began speaking in a reminiscent tone. "When I discovered the truth, it gave me the motivation I needed to seize the title of Mamono Lord and transform monsters forever. And when your father learned the truth from me, he immediately renounced The Order and joined my side. Together, we halted the cycle and sent the Chief God scurrying. And now, we can only continue to grow our strength so the Chief God will finally be defeated, monsters can give birth to human males, and humans and monsters can finally become one and at peace. That is the world I am fighting for."

Druella carefully listened to all her mother's words. Although she didn't like the Chief God before, now she was positively disgusted by her.

Controlling humans through culling? Poor, innocent little humans? How dare she! We may be monsters, but she is a MONSTER!

"Mother, you have to defeat the Chief God! We can't give her any chance to return things to the way they were before!"

The Mamono Lord chuckled and lightly ruffled her daughter's hair. "Fear not, Druella. Your father and I will not allow monsters to regress to their previous state if we can help it. But our path forward will not be easy. The Order remains ignorant of the truth, spreading propaganda that we haven't changed at all, that they are the only thing standing in between salvation or destruction. And the poor humans under their sway have no choice but to believe them. But until I can complete my spell, I cannot eradicate them just yet."

Druella was confused at that last statement. Why drag this battle any longer than it has to be? Why not just defeat The Order and save humanity? Even if the spell to allow for the birth of human males is not yet complete…to liberate humans, to free them from all suffering, to give their males the opportunity to live happy, pleasurable lives together with their wives, and their females the chance to unlock the happiness and love trapped within them and become something greater…that is what we should strive for!

Druella then straightened herself, her eyes filled with determination. "Then I will help you mother! I'll defeat The Order, and free all the humans under their sway! I'll fight as long as I have to in order to achieve your dream! I'll be the one that ends this unending cycle!"

The Mamono Lord's eyes widened a little at her passionate declaration, but she smiled and gave her a hug. "Hmm, it seems I've raised myself a little General. Druella, if you are truly determined to fight to achieve my dream, then I will allow you to do so. But just remember- do not allow your determination to achieve your goals to cloud your judgment. And, above all, do not forget to achieve your own happiness."

Druella barely heard the rest of her statement- the chance to fulfill her mother's utopia filled her with elation!

"I'm going to attend all of your meetings from now on, so I can be the greatest leader in the entire Mamono Realm! Besides you and father of course."

The Mamono Lord chuckled and held her a little tighter.

From that point onward, Druella focused entirely on becoming a great and powerful leader for the Mamono Realm. She learned statecraft and how to lead a campaign from her parents, participated in battles once she became an adult lilim, and slowly grew a following around her. Other monsters were attracted to her goal, her determination to fulfill the dreams of the Mamono Lord. They even began sporting the symbol she designed for herself- a glowing red eye. While some monsters called them 'The Radical Faction' for their devotion to spreading the Mamono Realm, she always considered them to merely be the vanguard for the Mamono Lord's cause.

"And then, not long after conquering Lescatie, I encountered you, Alex, and my story has entered a brand new chapter. Wherever it goes from here, we shall find out together." Druella said as she wrapped up her story. Alex, who listened on with rapt attention, blushed a little at that last statement.

"Thank you for telling me, Druella." Alex replied. "While I was already aware of some of the things your mother talked about, I feel like I know you a little better now."

Druella could only smile and hold her husband a little tighter- being able to pour out her past to him filled her with elation.

But there was one thing I failed to mention to him. When I finished conquering Lescatie and transforming it into a Mamono Realm, I sent a letter to my mother describing my grand achievement! I thought she'd be proud of me for defeating that troublesome kingdom and freeing its oppressed population!

But instead, she forbade me from ever repeating what I did to Lescatie to any other nation! But why? If it wasn't for me, the citizens of Lescatie would still be crumbling under excessive taxation! If it wasn't for me, Wilmarina would still be trapped by the ideals of her family and society! So why was she against my conquest? The Order has to be defeated for the sake of both humanity and monsters, every second they continue to exist is another second a human dies before ever encountering the joy and pleasure of being with a monster! And if the Chief God does regain her strength, everything we built could all go to naught! I'm sorry mother, but I cannot stand back and allow this suffering to continue, even if it means disobeying you!

[]

Alex continued to think about Druella's story as he allowed himself to sink deeper into the lilim's embrace. Through the warmth of her body, the heat emanating from the fireplace, and her wings covering him, he was in such a comfy position he loathed the moment they would eventually have to leave it.

So everything she does is motivated by a desire to protect humanity and fulfill her mother's dream. If she's really been determined enough to fight for that goal for centuries, then trying to change her might be way more difficult than I thought. But surely even she realizes that fully conquering humanity would lead to the extinction of all humans and monsters, even if it is a slow, pleasant demise? Or is she so devoted to her cause that she's willing to overlook that little caveat? Maybe she considers it to be a lesser evil compared to the continued existence of The Order of the Chief God?

Regardless of her reasons, I'll have to speak to her about it. But not today…too many things have already happened today.

"Alex," Druella broke their moment of silence. "I've told you a little about myself, now can you tell me a little more about yourself? What were your parents like? And how do you think they would react to me?"

Alex's eyes shot open at the last question. React to you? Now that's a pretty comical picture. "Hey Mom! Dad! Meet Druella, my new wife! Sorry for never mentioning her before, but the relationship moved super fast! She's a Succubus Princess from another Dimension- you always told me to marry well, and I listened! Also Mom, RUN."

"Um, to answer your last question, Druella, I think they'd eventually get used to you." Alex replied. "But it'd definitely be a rather bizarre first encounter."

Druella let out a light chuckle. "Yes, I imagine it would be."

Alex then sighed a little. "As for anything about them, they were perfectly average people, or at least average for my world. But they were perfectly content with their lot in life."

"I, on the other hand, did not share their contentment. I wanted to become a well-respected academic, the kind of professor you see in documentaries- oh wait, you don't know what those are. I'll tell you later. But anyway, they wanted me just to get a normal degree, a normal job, a normal life that'll allow me to coast through life without issue. Oh, and enough on the side to fund their retirement. But when I chose to go down my own path, they never understood it. In their logic, they couldn't understand why I'd choose history, a field where not everyone can make it. But what's life if you're unwilling to struggle to achieve what you want!?"

Druella listened to his story with rapt attention. "Hmm, so that is why you're so determined to come along with me in my missions. Alex, I promise you that, unlike your parents, I will never stand in the way of your desires. I will support you with anything you want to do!"

"Thank you, Druella. That means a lot to me." Alex replied. Then he sighed.

"But even though they sucked at supporting me, I still feel pretty bad for just disappearing on them like this. I wish I could just signal to them that I'm perfectly fine, that I haven't been kidnapped or murdered or anything like that. They must be absolutely worried."

Alex was still entirely unsure of the mechanics of how he entered the world of MGE. His bed came with him- would they just discover an empty apartment? Or maybe he died of a heart attack from one too many energy drinks, and whatever force that brought him over also duplicated his bed? He'd probably never know the full truth.

Druella held him a little closer. "You are a good son, Alex, for worrying about your parents despite everything. And if I ever find a way to make contact with your world, I will be sure to tell you so you can finally have some closure."

"Yes, please tell me if you do find a way." Alex replied.

The two sat at the loveseat for a while longer, enjoying each other's warmth and company. But alas, even this moment had to end eventually.

"Shall we go to the bedroom now, Alex?" Druella asked. "It is getting rather late. I understand you might still be a little nervous from the little…revelation you had today. Don't worry, I'll be sure to wash all of your fears away."

The two finally got up and walked to their bedroom, her hand in his. As they entered the room, Alex decided that he needed to say a few more things.

"Druella, while I don't know why the Fallen God is interested in me, and the very thought of having her attention chills me to the bone, I'm glad that I have you by my side. She'd never be able to get through you."

Druella's cheeks flushed a little at his words, her smile growing wider. "Fear not, Alex. No matter what the world throws at us, no matter what the Gods try to conspire, I will always be there for you. I will never abandon you."

I think I now know the answer to the question I had earlier.

"I love you, Druella." Alex replied.

If the lilim had been blushing before, now her cheeks were completely red. Druella's eyes widened at his romantic declaration, her breathing getting heavier. Then she smiled, a bright wide smile full of exuberant joy. Her spaded tail curled and swished behind her, further conveying the happiness traveling through her. Her gaze was one of pure adoration, her heart-shaped pupils locked on her beloved husband standing before her.

Wait, are her pupils literally heart-shaped?!

Before he could think about it any further, Druella ran forward and grabbed Alex with both her arms, lifting him up in the air so he could face her. Before he could even make a single sound, her lips were locked with his. The lilim kissed him long and hard, her tongue exploring every crevasse within his mouth as her firm grip kept him from squirming out of her grasp. After about a minute, Druella finally pulled back to allow him to breathe, though part of Alex wished she didn't.

"You do not believe how long I waited for you to say that, Alex!" she exclaimed as she pulled him closer and covered his face with kisses. "My sweet! *smooch* Perfect! *smooch* Heroic! *smooch* Husband! Oh, I am not going to let you leave my side for a whole week!"

Whole week?! Before Alex's hazy mind could ponder that little mention any longer, Druella had already placed him on their bed. The lilim's heart-shaped pupils gazed at him with hunger, leaving Alex with a feeling of nervous anticipation.

Aw, to hell with it! Might as well lie back and enjoy my upcoming pelvis shattering! Alex thought to himself as Druella prepared to demonstrate how much gratitude she had for his love.

[]

Author's Note: Another EXTRA chapter continuing from here will be coming soon. After that, there'll be two chapters where we'll look away from Alex and Druella to see what some old friends have been up to. And enemies.

Timur Beg- when it comes to raiding, the Mamono Lord is fine with small attacks meant to seize a few husbands. However, she does try to put a lid on any large-scale attacks that could lead to a violent response. But she can't control everyone. In the case of the Tazchek, she'll step in if they get too rowdy, but The Order really brought it on themselves.

ggg123666- That's not a bad idea. I might stop and do a "Tales of Ba Sing Se" style chapter after completing the third little arc, cause things will turn in a different direction after that.