Daily Life of Monster Girls in Alabama

by GoatManofAnime

It's time for a MonMusu fanfiction that takes place in sweet home Alabama, nuff said.

92. Adult Fun

Chapter 85: Adult Fun

…At the Bizzell household…

Over three weeks have passed since Caleb began his community service for Interspecies Affairs.

In that time, Mirabelle and the others had grown accustomed to Cheryl and, likewise, the human woman quickly acclimated to her role as an ICEP host.

However, despite the seemingly calm atmosphere, there was a storm quietly brewing that could threaten the relatively peaceful home.

Inside Mirabelle's room, the purple centauress draws back her curtains and lifts up to the window as she basks in the morning sunlight and breathes in the fresh air. Her porcelain skin and purple hair glistens with a healthy sheen and a cheerful smile. She wore her dark purple cloak and a black T-shirt that was two sizes too big, hanging loosely to expose her left shoulder. It was one of Caleb's shirts she recently borrowed as pajamas.

She then inhales her boyfriend/husband's scent deeply, feeling her cheeks flush pink in delight as her wispy tail flails happily.

"Haaa, what a lovely morning…", She hums sweetly, purple eyes twinkling then looks at her Sailor Moon clock on the wall, "Blimey, 8:30 already? I wonder if the others are up."

Mirabelle raises up from her bed then teleports into the hallway. She immediately notices the lack of aroma of breakfast from the kitchen. She decides to check on Camilla first, teleporting over to her door and knocks on it.

Odd, since Camilla would most certainly be preparing it by now.

"Good morning, Camilla.", She happily spoke only to be met with no response, "Camilla? Are you in there?", she cocks her ears towards the door, able to make out indistinguishable almost manic muttering and a scratching sound.

She withdraws herself and is suddenly caught off guard when she hears what sounds like loud, animalistic grunting coming from Caleb's room. She teleports further down the hall, erases her presence using her dream mist, and gently opens the door to peek inside.

Her eyes widened, greeted by the sight Lyca sprawled out onto Caleb's bed, completely naked and roughly fingering herself.

"~Chief. Chief.~", Lyca moans, her voice partly muffled by his shirt and pants she kept pressed to her face, taking in his intoxicating scent while spurring her lust. The she-wolf arches her back, finding the right spot before letting out a lengthy moan as she came all over his bedsheets. A mess they would have to clean before he returned but right now she couldn't care less. As she catches her breath, Lyca elicits a low, frustrated snarl baring her teeth.

Mirabelle, steps backwards, hoofsteps silence because of her power, processing what she saw yet not too surprised by it. She could only imagine how Camilla was 'relieving' herself right now.

"Maybe I shouldn't bother them right now–"

"Good morning Mirabelle!", Cheryl happily stated, catching the Nightmare off guard.

"C-Cheryl?! Why are you here? How did you get in?!"

"Uhh, I'm on the clock? Plus, you guys told me what the key code is the other day, remember?", Cheryl answered as Mirabelle facepalms, forgetting they did give her permission to use it for the time being, "So, are Camilla and Lyca up yet? I've got quite the field trip planned for you guys today!"

"T-They are but it's really not–"

"Hey! Time to get up, Lyca! Wakey wakey eggs and bakey! Minus the eggs and bakey for now!", Cheryl called out, knocking on her bedroom door, then goes to Camilla's door doing the same as Mirabelle panics, trying to make her quiet down, "You too, Camilla! Hope you're ready to have some fu–", Cheryl happily stated before the door to Camilla's and Caleb's room open simultaneously.

"SHUT THE FUCK UP!", "SHUT THE FUCK UP!", Camilla and Lyca shouted simultaneously, flinging their respective doors open, startling Cheryl and Mirabelle.

The Elder Devil and Werewolf had deep irritated frowns, sullen scowls and radiated a vicious aura of dissatisfaction. Both had notable bags under their eyes from poor sleep, their hair messy and unkempt, and their skin pasty and losing its luster. They looked like the physical definition of 'not a morning person'.

As they glared at the human woman, who was awkwardly smiling and doing as requested, afraid they'll rip her apart, they each notice Mirabelle standing there equally as awkward.

"Um…g-good morning? Hehe…", Mirabelle strains out, forcing a smile as both women glare at her unamused.

"Yeah, morning…I'm taking a shower…", Lyca dismissively responded, turning away from her.

"Me too. A QUIET…cold, shower", Camilla emphasized glaring at Cheryl who recoils like a small child that upset a parent.

As the Elder Devil walks past her, following Lyca into the bathroom, Cheryl notices Camilla's sketchpad lying in the entryway to her bedroom.

"I am so sorry about that. Are you ok?", Mirabelle apologizes, visibly concerned.

"Yeah, I'm fine. Guessing they woke up on the wrong side of the bed, huh?", Cheryl questions, kneeling down to pick up Camilla's sketchpad.

"It's…a tad more complicated than that, I'm afraid. What have you got there?"

"Camilla dropped this as she left her room. Looks like she's been drawing again. Guess it can't hurt to take a…uhh…", Cheryl opens up the sketchpad, her curiosity changing to immediate regret.

Mirabelle leans in to take a look before her eyes widen, cheeks blushing red, "Oh, oh my…"

"We should…get some help."

….Next door…

Mirabelle and Cheryl could now be seen sitting in the living room of the Zyklon's house. Both of them having finished explaining their experience earlier this morning.

Ein and Zwei could be seen blushing heavily while looking through the Camilla sketchpad which featured many, many incredibly detailed drawings of her being mated by Caleb in various sexual positions. They were so detailed one could make out every hair and vein on their bodies. It was almost like they could hear the pictures themselves.

"Well, at least we can say our Elder Devil takes the phrase 'devil in the details' seriously.", Zwei remarks while a little impressed.

"Yeah, no kidding. These are like…Greek statue-level detailed. And looks like Caleb's her favorite muse.", Cheryl remarks tilting her head, examining the sketch of Camilla and Caleb.

"M-Miss Banks! I promise there's a perfectly logical explanation for this!" Ein assured, trying not to sound nervous.

"No need, I think it's pretty obvious what's going on here."

Mirabelle and the Zyklons look at the human woman panicked and concerned at how quickly she figured out the true nature of their relationship. Their minds raced on different ways they could deal with the situation.

"Cheryl it's not what you–", Mirabelle stated but was swiftly cut off.

"It's their heat cycle!", Cheryl stated, catching them off guard.

Mirabelle looks at her incredulously but chooses to roll with it, "Y-Yes! That's exactly right! Their… um going through that special time of the season. Yes.", she says, forcing an awkward grin.

"Y-Yes! Of course, that is what I was just about to say as well. I just wasn't sure if YOU knew, hehe." Ein answered relieved, forcing a grin as Zwei looks at her amused by her terrible poker face.

"Yeah, I did some reading on that care package ICEP gave me for the students here. It explained all about situations like these. I mean you can Camilla's craving…male attention judging these drawings of Mr. Bizzell. He is the ONLY guy in this house. So that leaves slim pickings though be honest I can definitely see some his more attractive features", Cheryl's replies, confidently cracking the case wide open as they look at her curiously.

"Yeah. That's the reason we're going with.", Zwei remarks dubiously, almost amazed by how right yet so wrong she was.

"So, did their relief devices break or are they just charging?"

"Relief…devices?" Ein asked, confused as Mirabelle tilted her head equally confused.

"You know, their…tools to relieve their burdens? Their drawer buddies? Their handheld hubby? Their vibe scepter?", Cheryl says using every euphemism she could think of and confusing both girls even more.

"Vibe scepter? Drawer buddies? Is that some kind of medicine? I don't think I ever see them take any." Mirabelle asked Ein.

"I think I would remember that in their files through I could double check maybe reference-"

"Oh for God—she's talking about sex toys!", Zwei stated annoyed.

"O-Oh!", Ein and Mirabelle expressed simultaneously, both flushing their cheeks pink.

"And no they don't have any 'vibe scepters' as you like to call them. Believe me I checked."

"Why would you need to check? Oh, gods, don't tell me you've been teaching Ms. Kessler perverted things again.", Ein says, slightly annoyed.

"No! Not lately, but that's besides the point. Why would they have things like that? Hehe why would anyone?", Zwei lightly chuckles, sweating a bit nervously, glancing between them as Ein raises an eyebrow at her.

"There's nothing to be ashamed of. We all need something to take the edge off when you're in that mood. Hell, I have a little handy-dandy toy back home when that mood comes around. I call mine Albus Dumbledick.", Cheryl remarks with a grin as they give her mixed stares.

"I wish I didn't hear that.", Ein plainly replies.

"What I'm still stuck on is the fact we're allowed…sexual pleasure toys as students! Did I miss a page in my student handbook", Mirabelle points out, pondering to herself.

"Well, from what I read there is technically no rule against it. There's even a few tips online for dealing with heat cycles depending on the species.", Cheryl replies, "Oh! Fun fact, it's pretty common for some host families to specifically host two different liminal species of opposite gender at a time. You know, so they can…relieve each other, especially during full moons.", she says as the girls look at her a bit dumbfounded.

"Ok that CAN'T be true! I would definitely remember being told that. I was very thorough during the initiation training." Ein said find that ICEP would be doing that unbelievable

"We're contracts sis. There's a lot of things they don't tell us.", Zwei pointed out.

"Apparently, it's only a thing here in this country, Sweden, Portugal, Liberia and a few others I forgot, oddly enough I swear that there's one with a t. Guess we're in that weird minority."

"Still that's crazy though! I mean, I get the logic but still it's weird as fuck.", Zwei remarks.

"Yeah, I admit it sounds…really bad and kinda creepy imagining your students just slamming away in the next room over. Can't imagine how many 'Little Jimmys' probably have been traumatized or had a sexual awakening or possibly something even weirder. Point is! It works, somehow. Especially since the students can't really breed as long as they're not the same species excluding humans apparently.", Cheryl explained.

"I don't know. It still doesn't sit right with me. But, I suppose as humans say, 'Whatever helps you sleep at night'?, Mirabelle replies, shrugging still not fully accepting that revelation. She didn't like the idea of Caleb having the option of bringing in some random males just to mate her when needed. It just makes her feel filthy to think about it.

"So get back to the problem at hand if they don't have sex toys to relieve their pent up aggression.", Cheryl says to their surprise.

"Um, Miss Banks? I know your intentions are good, I don't think that is the best decision." Ein replies.

"Why not? Clearly they need help. It's my job to do just that. They're obviously suffering."

"I'd…hardly say their suffering but…"

"Uhh, I don't know sis. She may have a points. Lycs was wayyyy more aggressive playing TEKKEN yesterday

Even snarled at me when I accidentally placed my hand on one of Boss' shirts she held like a security blanket.", Zwei said remembering the she-wolf baring her fangs ready to go to war over a blue T-shirt.

"W-Well that might just have been a bad day for her. I-It doesn't necessarily mean–"

"If we're on the topic of strange behavior, Camilla has been a lot more agitated lately. Last time she cooked, she stabbed the knife straight through the cutting board. Then snapped it in half with her bare hands and incinerated it.", Mirabelle recalls, the memory of the devil woman's body radiating black aura as black flame erupted from from countertop while she looked on in horror.

"T-That… board was probably worn down and it was probably just a mistake she m-made?", Ein spoke, barely convinced but her own words.

"She was making a bloody sandwich! The bread was plum burnt to high heavens when she was done!"

"I…I…haaa, ok maybe they've been more irritable lately but I doubt…those things are the answer.", Ein admits, arms folded in defiance.

"Wait? Ms. Ein, are you shy when it comes to sex?" Cheryl casually asked with a cheeky smirk as Ein flinches, blushing feverishly.

"W-What?! N-No of course n-not! D-Don't be silly! Why would I be?!", Ein stuttered putting on a confident grin as Zwei smirks doubtfully.

"Nah, I'm pretty sure I'm right. I'm guessing you walked in on your parents 'doing it' as a kid? Oh! Or did you watch 'Dirty Dancing' and it made you feel some type of way? " Cheryl playfully prys as Ein becomes more flustered.

"Nope." Zwei answered, "They brought us into their room then they had sex as a live demonstration to teach us. Auntie Jin had to carry her out because she passed out from shock when mama yū jin started making out with Auntie Jin with papa cock in between them I will never forget look on her face right before she fainted when papa cummed between them, haha good times.", Zwei chuckles as Ein looks at her in shock.

Cheryl and Mirabelle stare at them wide eyed in pure disbelief at the story.

"...Ok, alot is starting to make sense now. Sheesh.", Cheryl utters, still reeling, "Moving on! I know it may seem awkward Ms. Ein but it's a natural part of being an adult and just having urges. Like I said, I wanna help Camilla and Lyca the same way I'm sure Caleb would, right Mirabelle?"

"Uhhh…", Mirabelle trails, glancing to the side in embarrassment with an awkward smile, "Yes, he…certainly would help with their ahem 'burden'."

"Hehe. Burdens.", Zwei giggles, cheekily.

"Right! So, why don't we work together and find them some stress relief devices? Would be way, wayyy less awkward than finding a liminal guy right?"

"Most definitely!", Mirabelle wholeheartedly stated almost surprising the others.

"Errr, I don't know. Is it…really that bad for them?", Ein questions.

"Uhh, I don't know sis, you tell me. This is a live feed from next door.", Zwei responds, showing the laptop with indoor security camera feed. On it, they could see Lyca in Caleb's room with his pillow in her teeth snarling and tearing it to shreds like a feral dog before rolling around in his blankets and stuffing enjoying the scent. They could also see Camilla in the living room on the floor with papers spread out furiously drawing. The papers all come together to form a collage of a giant, extremely detailed female sex organ being penetrated repeatedly. She smiles and chuckles maniacally as black aura radiates from her body.

Cheryl and the others look on in shock, unnerved and quite disturbed by how much both girls were suffering. Zwei then closes the video feed as they all quietly process what they saw.

"Ok. I'm just gonna look up any stores nearby.", Zwei remarks, quickly typing.

"You do that. Meanwhile, who's gonna be the one to tell them the news. Not it!", Cheryl stated, putting up her finger.

"Not it!", Zwei stated.

"Not it!", Mirabelle stated, holding up her finger.

"OH COME ON!", Ein shouted in annoyance before sighing, "Fine, I'll do it. Can't believe this is how I start the weekend.", she complains as she leaves.

"The way you were hyping yourself, I figured you'd wanna tell them.", Zwei remarks to Cheryl.

"Dude, they looked like they were gonna tear my skinny ass in half earlier! Fuck no!"

"A reasonable assumption.", Mirabelle nods.

"By the way, are you wearing one on Boss' shirts?", Zwei asked, raising an eyebrow.

"What's his is mine."

…Meanwhile…

At an Interspecies Affair research center located a few minutes away from where Caleb's service assignments, I.A. specialists could be seen going about their work researching the various materials and byproducts extracted from willing participants. From the unique enzymes secreted from the bodies of Mucus Toads to be used in skin creme, to powder scales of Mothman with medicinal properties, if it was considered a valuable resource to be used for development of new products to be consumed by the public. Of course, participants are compensated handsomely for their 'donations' depending on the quality of the material so many liminals were encouraged to maintain a good overall healthy lifestyles prior to extraction.

However, there was another purpose for this facility, as seen by one the more secured areas in a special holding area for rarer liminal breeds. A human woman in blue and white I.A. medical attire could be seen seated behind a three inches of plexiglass enchanted with an Elven fire protection spell looking into a white room with a bed, table, and small flat screen on the wall with limited channels.

"How are you feeling today, ?", the woman asks in a chipper tone and smile.

Seated on the large bed in the corner was the Phoenix woman. She sat with her knees to her chest, vibrant fiery orange wings draped hugging her legs. She wore a listless, despondent expression staring at the wall beside her with a dull lifelessness. Knowing the woman wouldn't stop pestering her with the same question, Ash half-heartedly waved her wing.

"...Oookay. I'll take that as a 'fine'.", The woman put on a smile glance immediately writing notes on a clipboard as Ash barely responded, "How have you been? Did you enjoy today's breakfast? "

Ash doesn't respond or even make eye contact with the human woman. She knew that the phoenix had barely touched any of the food they'd given her since she'd arrived. Not like she had much appetite lately anyway or even felt hunger very often. Despite that, she hasn't shown any sign of weight loss or dehydration.

The I.A. woman sighs, placing her pen down, "Ms. Ash…please, I need you to work with me. I understand the…truly awful circumstances you've endured but…it's been weeks. Weeks of silence and no progress for either of us. You still haven't even told us your actual name! We want to help you adjust to this new life. We want to help you find peace. Isn't that what you want? I simply ask that you let me in. I want to understand you but you have to let me in.", the woman pleaded, trying to be as sincere as possible.

Ash, barely moving or looking at her, remains completely silent staring blankly at the wall.

The woman sighs lethargically before her phone buzzes, alerting her. She pulls it out, gives a surprised look, then raises up from her seat, "Oh, pardon, I'll be right back. Ok?", She says, hoping to get a reaction but, to her disappointment, was met with emotionless silence. She sighs before walking away, sliding her security badge at a scanner, then walking out through sliding doors.

The I.A. woman approaches two men; one a well-dressed dark-skinned human male in business attire with a muscular frame, a bald head and thick frame black glasses. A badge with the I.A. logo was clipped to his suit pocket. His overall demeanor was serious and slightly imposing, yet welcoming. The other was a slim, caucasian male with brown wavy hair in white lab coat and professional attire consisting of brown slacks, dark green collar shirt, and black tie. His demeanor seemed approachable yet cunning.

"Good morning, Dr. Graham, hope we're not interrupting your session with our 'special' resident.", the dark skinned man politely greeted.

"Good morning, Director Parks. And no, not really.", Dr. Graham politely shook his hand before the man next to them audibly clears his throat.

"Ah, yes. This is–"

"Craig Underwood, clinical researcher. Nice to meet you.", He greets interrupting as he shakes her hand, "I understand you recently obtained an extraordinarily rare liminal specimen. A Phoenix in fact."

Graham looks at him skeptically, "Yes? I was just in the middle of our usual session."

"How is she? Has she made any progress?

"Unfortunately, no. It appears her trauma is far deeper than we thought. She still hasn't said a single word to anyone since she arrived. She barely eats or drinks anything yet shows no changes in weight or signs of dehydration.", Dr. Graham relays as the clinical researcher raises a fascinated eyebrow.

"Can we see her?", Craig inquires as Dr. Graham glances at Director Parks who nods.

She takes them to a door leading into Ash's room with a large TV monitor on the wall beside it. She powers it on, showing a live video feed of the Phoenix.

"My God…", Craig expressed in astonishment, approaching the screen, "She's gorgeous. The first Phoenix ever in this country."

"Yes but unfortunately it appears her mind still hasn't adjusted to her new body or living space. That and coupled with God knows what those traffickers did to her, I doubt human or even other liminal contact will be possible for some time. We're starting to rethink her rehabilitation method. Perhaps one of her own could help but…"

"The Indian government has restricted all contact with their Phoenix outside the country and the whereabouts of the remaining three is yet to be determined", Director Parks finished with a ponderous expression.

"From what I heard, they seem to have formed a cult around their Phoenix.", Craig points out.

"The Phoenix is seen as a sacred figure in their culture, Mr. Underwood. They revere it as the chariot to the god Vishnu. It was to ensure her protection from outside influence as detailed in the 'Mumbai Accord of 2019' established by ICEP and the U.N. joint agreement."

"Yes, well, that doesn't exactly apply in this particular scenario, does it? No no, I say this is what's called 'free real estate'. Opportunity right in the palm of our hands.", Craig emphatically spoke, gesturing towards the screen at the Phoenix.

"And exactly what KIND of 'opportunity' are you referring to Mr. Underwood?", Dr. Graham skeptically asks.

"The kind to revolutionize the world of medical treatment. Think about it, there's still so much unknown about Phoenix as a species but ONE common ability they all share is their extraordinary healing and immense longevity even rivaling the oldest species on the planet from angels to freaking dragons! What if we could harness that ability…with her cooperation of course.", He explains as Dr. Graham looks at him with an appalled expression.

"Mr. Underwood.", Director Parks spoke in displeasure.

"What? I'm only pointing out a possible–"

"Are you serious? You want to 'experiment' on that poor girl?!"

"No! No, of course not! No kind of weird science or anything. We…just need samples from her to run some tests on. Feathers, talon clippings, maybe a few blood samples to check for abnormalities—"

"Oh my God. I can't believe what I'm hearing. You have ANY idea what that girl has been through?!"

"Yes, I do, but she was also given a second chance!", Craig says as Dr. Graham scoffs, "The RAREST of chances anyone of her kind could possibly get and on AMERICAN soil no less! Imagine the vaccines and medical treatments that could be advanced years ahead! We could even make greater improvements on the full moon sedatives!"

"All at HER expense and YOUR name conveniently at the forefront of those advancements!", Dr. Graham stated in discontent as Craig scoff dismissively, "Director! You can't seriously be in favor of this!"

"Of course not, we would NEVER be so tactless and uncourteous.", Director Parks strongly affirms shooting a glare at Craig, "However, I'd be remiss to not tell you that ICEP's C. are considering the future utilization of Ms. Ash's unique abilities and physiology after enough progress in her treatment."

Dr. Graham eyes widen in shock, "What?"

"After considering the circumstances, it decided that an American-fostered phoenix could be highly beneficial to the organization in the long-term. You may continue with her rehabilitation as normal—"

"There's nothing NORMAL about any of this! That poor woman's already been through hell at hands of those fucking traffickers! And you want to exploit her too for the sake of so-called progress?!"

"Oh please. How are you one to talk? Isn't this entire building used to milk every liminal for all they're goods, some quite literally? Are you really better than the Malones or any other dubious business for that matter?", Craig snidely remarks as Director Parks glares at him and Graham look ready to backhand him across the face.

"They are EMPLOYED and given housing here. They are paid for their generous donations no different than you or I would give blood or sell our hair. We do thorough checks to make sure it won't negatively affect them either physically or mentally. In fact, our extraction methods help more than harm many of them so don't you DARE compare us to them! You miserable piece of living trash!", Dr. Graham retorts indignantly.

"Alright, alright, if it helps your little conscience, we have a few representatives to take her as a student. I know a guy who is very experienced with harpies. I call him the 'bird whisperer'. He can come over, sign whatever paperwork—"

"Do you even hear yourself?", Dr. Graham cuts him off in disgust, "Look at her. Does she look like she's in any condition to go into the homestay program? I don't care what either of you say, she's in no condition for any of this. She has suffered enough."

Craig was about to speak but Director Parks swiftly interjects then looks at her sternly but compassionately.

"Ms. Graham, I understand your concerns and they are valid but, as you can see, she hasn't shown any improvement since she arrived. Clearly keeping her here isn't the best way to help her so we may need to consider alternative treatment methods."

Dr. Graham wanted to refute his claim but couldn't deny the truth in his words.

"As for the utilization of her abilities, we will hold on ANY trials until she is of sound enough mind and body to give her own consent.", Director Parks affirms looking right at Craig

"Wait, when will that be!? Our investors have a deadline on–" Craig stated, only to be silenced again by Director Park's intensifying glare. The type of glare a father gives their children when they are on very, very thin ice. Craig begrudgingly withdraws, "Understood sir…"

"Perfect."

Dr. Graham gives a despondent gaze to the side which Director Park picks up on and chooses to distract her a little.

"Now then, Dr. Graham, would you mind showing us the latest developments from the project teams. I'm eager to see how trials are going in mana technology applications."

"Oh, o-of course sir.", Dr. Graham tries to perk up then shoots a glare at Craig who appeared more focused on Ash's surveillance footage, "I suppose you'll be leaving now Since you're done here right?"

Craig pauses, then gives her a smile, "Not yet. I still have to wait for my ride to pick me up. In the meantime, I'd like to join you on a little tour and really see the work you do. Consider it my apology for my rudeness earlier."

"That's a funny way of apologizing if I ever heard one.", She skeptically replied.

"I'm sure it is but I do apologize. Truly."

"If that's the case, then I see no reason not to let you join us. So long as you stay well within sight, Mr. Underwood. We'd hate to have staff search for a lost civilian."

"Understandable."

Dr. Graham sigh lethargically, not even bothering to contest, "Fine. You can tag along but, like the Director says, stay close to us.", She warns for turning to leave with Director right behind her.

"Oh don't worry about that, ma'am…", Craig remarks, his eyes drifting to the security ID badge dangling on her neck before pulling out a black glove with a Dark elven symbol on it, "I'll be right beside you."

…Back to Ash…

She sat in her room with her mind seemingly aloof and disinterested but that couldn't be further from the truth.

Her eyes were focused with her irises glowing like the ember of a campfire. Through the dark walls, she make out the heat signatures of the three individuals near her room. She didn't know when this ability awakened but she learned, if she concentrated hard enough, she could see the body heat of individuals all around her; including the dozens of other creatures in the building.

'Why can't they just leave me alone?', Ash sadly thought, examining her wings. This body wasn't hers. It couldn't have been from what little she could remember.

When it came to her memory, only a few things were clear: She was a harpy with black feathers. She was associated with ICEP; either as a student or employee. She was going after a group called the 'Malones' who kidnapped her sister and…her sister?

"Sister? I…I do have a sister. She looked like me. She liked parfetts. She likes the color orange and…and…", Ash lists off what she knew before trailing off, "My…sister, I…I can't remember…her name!"

Ash clutches her head, getting a splitting ache that felt like a cold steel knife was stabbing into her cranium. She clenches her teeth as images flash through her head of humans with shadow over their eyes. One of the figures pointed right at her, sicking the other more menacing figures at her. She didn't understand why but her heart ached as if the trust within had been shattered. The next images before her showed the menacing humanoid shadows gleefully laughing pressing some cold and hard around her neck, nearly strangling her. They proceeded to tear off all her clothes, ripping off all her wings, talons, even her teeth one-by-one with the clacking of metal pliers and cutters accompanied by her screams and their laughter. She sees three shadowy figure with wide toothy grins, one of them proceeds to spread her legs apart as an intense, stabbing pain fires through her core.

Suddenly, an alarm goes off similar to the ringing of a smoke alarm, yanking her from her thoughts. Her eyes shot open, glancing around furiously to find her body emanating orange flames leaving scorch marks on the wall and partially burning the sheets. Luckily, much of the furniture was fire retardant anyway.

That's when a white cooling steam hit her from above, courtesy of the fire suppression systems the humans installed for the room. She could feel her body cool if only for a moment before returning back to the temperature she was used to. She's gotten used to this happening on occasion but still found it annoying.

"Damn it all. I hate it here.", Ash sadly and bitterly remarks, flopping down on her bed.

…Elsewhere…

Somewhere near downtown Huntsville, a liminal trolley could be seen making it's usual rounds through the area. It stops at what looks like a shopping district letting the liminals and their human partners board on one side and letting others off on the other.

Mirabelle dismounts from the trolley, along with Cheryl and the others, breathing a sigh of relief that the ride there is over. It had been over an hour since they left the house and felt longer considering the trolley was late.

As Mirabelle looks around at the somewhat quiet area, noting a few older, rundown establishments and construction workers, both human and liminal working on the street. There was a collection of low-income houses nearby and she could even make out a couple humans in filthy clothing seated near these buildings with cardboard signs. However, what really stood to her from conversations with Caleb was the 'Popeyes' restaurant and down from it a 'Piggly Wiggly' grocery store in the distance. She could tell this was one of those parts of town Caleb warned her about and try avoiding.

Lyca comes out behind her, her head low and ear angled down in a displeased pout like a moody teen, lacking her usual bubbly energy when out with her family. She even refused to talk with anyone on the ride there; a very bad sign. Camilla was no better. She appeared visibly anxious and irritable, arms folded with a contemplative scowl but ready to tear anyone apart just from her malicious gaze.

"Umm, Ms. Banks, are you positive we are in the correct location?", Mirabelle inquires, looking around cautiously.

"Yeah, kinda. GPS says it's further down that way.", Cheryl says, pointing down the street.

"Yes but you couldn't find a more…hospitable location to get what we needed?", Ein inquires.

"It's the only place nearby for our…specific needs. Besides, it's not that bad. I've lived in waaay worse parts of town in Ohio. Act natural and don't mind your business, you'll be good."

"Honestly, this place is a playground compared to that one mission in Bangkok, right sis?", Zwei cheekily remarks as Ein rolls her eyes.

"Do not. Say. Cock.", Camilla growled, glaring at them, "Let's just finish this fucking errand and leave this filthy place."

"Yeah, hehe, you're probably right. Let's go.", Cheryl nervously grins, proceeding onwards with the others following. Ein keeping a sharp eye out for would be threats or people trying to sell them something.

Mirabelle and Zwei then notice Lyca looking off in the distance towards dark skin human and a female beagle-type Kobold laughing at a bus stop and enjoying Popeyes chicken.

"Mmmh.", Lyca released a distressed, longing canine whimper, ears drooped down.

"Lycs? You ok?", Zwei inquires, catching her attention.

Lyca glances at her and Mirabelle a moment then turns away in a huff, jogging after Cheryl and the others. Zwei gives a surprised and disappointed look, not used to her acting so cold towards them.

"Oh bother…I do hope this works.", Mirabelle solemnly utters.

"Yeah. Me too." Zwei said

After nearly five minutes of walking, ignoring looks from some humans and dodging a conversation from a random person trying to sell them CDs, they arrived at their destination. A fairly large, black and red painted store—easily standing out from other buildings—with a large display window that had mannequins of both humanoid and demi-human design; dressed in all manner of risque, foreplay, and BDSM attire. There were a few colorful spray-painted signs reading things like 'lingerie sale' or '11 inch dildos half off with coupon' and various furniture and decorations in the shape of male and female genitalia. They even have a few animatronic human male and females in various sexy scenarios. One of them the male bent over with a ball gag in his mouth as the female paddles him. There was a red and green neon sign with a rose and thorn vine design that read 'Rose's Adult Fun'.

Mirabelle and the others looked upon the unique establishment with mixed expressions.

"What is this place?" Camilla asks, sounding equally confused and displeased.

"Well, I…WE noticed you guys have been antsy lately sooo…we thought some toys might help? Ok, you know what? Hearing it out loud it sounds weird but we're just trying to help you and Lyca since you're both clearly suffering." Cheryl said, her words sincere yet feeling awkward and guilty about deceiving them.

"And ju two seriously went along with THIS!?" Camilla asks both Zyklons, giving Ein an especially suspicious look. Lyca could be seen, tilting her head curiously at the BDSM mannequin of a woman holding a riding crop using a male as her steed.

"Well…I won't deny that I wish there was a better alternative… but this might be something you two need. I say we should at least try it."

"Come now, I'm sure it can't hurt you both to try. Please?", Mirabelle pleads, hands clasped with twinkling eyes at the two.

Lyca and Camilla stares at her a moment their tense expressions softening.

"Hmm, I…guess it looks like kinda fun but is this really ok?", Lyca inquires tilting her head.

"Yeah, believe it or not. You're well within your rights as students to get yourselves off whenever you need it; as anyone should be honestly.", Cheryl confidently concurs to Lyca's intrigue.

"That answer is not a good selling point.", Camilla replies the grumbles, unable to deny her intrigue and growing tensions below, "Ugh, that being said, I suppose I…would not mind at least browsing what they have."

"Yay! Onwards into the adult toy store ladies!", Cheryl happily marches forward as Camilla rolls her eyes.

The group enters the adult toy store as the chiming bell which sounded distinctly like soft moaning. They proceed inside the somewhat dim store, their eyes greeted by the colorful assortments of adult pleasure products. Sex toys ranging from onaholes to vibrators of all shapes, sizes and colors, along with sex lubes and erotic massage oils of various scents to tickle one's fancy displayed on the shelves. There was an entire section dedicated to erotic lingerie and naughty roleplay costumes made up of every comfortable material from satin to cotton tailored to just every human and nonhuman body type you could ask for. Among them were even male thongs and package enhancing boxers. Another section was dedicated to kink and bondage products. From sex slave kits to bondage games with detailed instructions, handcuffs(regular and fuzzy), bondage tape, collars, leashes, paddles, whips, riding crops, giant feathers, and ticklers to indulge in painful pleasure. There were even candies and other sweets designed as edible underwear or genitalia for a sweeter kind of fun.

The entire area smelled of sweet rosy incense from the sensors hanging above with music playing from the speakers. The current song was 'Are you that somebody' by Aaliyah.

Mirabelle, Lyca, Zwei and Cheryl look around the store in amazement almost like children in a candy store while Ein appears visibly uncomfortable at all the phallic shaped objects around her. Camilla seemed more curious about the female devil shaped mannequin posing seductively in a black dominatrix attire with thigh high stiletto boots.

"Oy! Welcome to Rose's Adult Fun, loves!", called out the store's owner, getting the group's attention.

Mirabelle's eyes widened in surprise upon seeing the familiar face of Gwendolyn Rose, the Bicorn from the movie theater standing behind a marble countertop wearing a black leather jacket with red crop top giving a good view of ample cleavage, "M-Ms. Rose?!"

"Ah! Well blimey! It's you slags again!", Gwen happily exclaims before she radiates a black and red aura and she instantly teleports in front of them with a wide smile, "So good to see ya!"

"Hehe, likewise.", Mirabelle lightly chuckles.

"Yeah, small world ain't it? So you work here?", Cheryl casually remarks.

"More than just 'work here', mate. Yer lookin' at the owner of this fine establishment and a proud one at that! Yer all here for some adult fun, I reckon?", Gwen asks with a sly grin.

"Well, think of it more like a getting prescription.", Cheryl informs before presenting Lyca and Camilla to her, the latter frowning in annoyance, "These two fine ladies are struggling with some…hormone issues and need some to take the edge off."

"Why are you phrasing it like you're buying drugs?", Zwei raises a snarkily eyebrow, "What she means is our girls are feeling the tension from LACK of attention down here. If you catch our drift.", She jokingly gestures between her legs as Ein gives an incredulous sneer.

"I swear. I am going to send both of you to Oblivion if ju keep it up.", Camilla growls menacingly, conjuring black ball energy pulsating with red lightning in her palm alarming Mirabelle and the others.

"Hohoho! No need to go all barmy now, love. They're just havin' a bit of fun.", Gwen chuckles before calmly assuring the elder devil, smiling warmly prompting Camilla to scoff and cancel out the spell, much to the others relief, "As for your request, neither of you lasses have anything to worry about! My diverse and extraordinary inventory caters to wants, needs, and fantasies of EVERY species! I suppose you can think of me as Wonka and this my own little chocolate factory! Ohohoho!", Gwen happily chuckles in amusement.

"I can't eat chocolate.", Lyca replies raising her hand.

"No need to worry, love! Theres plenty of other sweets to stuff in yer pie hole. And yer mouth too.", Gwen slyly remarks as Ein's eyes widen with a blush, getting what she meant.

"M-Ms. Rose, please–"

"Gwen?! They melted again!" A distressed voice called out, cutting Ein off, as a short but mature-looking dark slime girl runs up to the Bicorn carrying malformed hunks of dark purple gooey material. She was dressed in a skin tight, latex, waterproof gimp suit accentuating her wide hips and perky C-cups.

"Oh dear, well don't worry, Messi love. Practice makes perfect! Put'er in with the recyclables."

"Ok!", Messi nods fervently with determination in her dark purple eyes then sees the others and happily greets them, "Hello! Welcome to our store! Enjoy yourselves!", she bows then runs off.

"Sweet little lass, ain't she?"

"Wasn't that…the slime you and your husband or boyfriend or whatever took in from the theater? She works here with you? Weren't you taking her to your coordinator?", Chery inquires curiously.

"Yes, well, one thing led to another and now she lives with us permanently. Not that I mind, I love the young lass! She's been a big help around the store and she's practicing making synthetic toys from leftover materials. That'll save me a pretty penny, I tell ya."

"So she's kinda like your oompa loompa?", Zwei cheekily spoke.

"Hohoho! I suppose! Now what specifically were you lasses lookin' fer? I've got anything you need when you're lonely or randy or just a buddy for your phany!", Gwen playfully assures, conjuring a large black dildo, a fist, and a hot pink vibrator with a puff of red mana levitating them around her.

"We…aren't really sure…there's just so many things to pick from.", Mirabelle remarks, looking around.

"No rush, love! You're all free to look around and find what speaks to you and your preference. That IS the motto of this establishment. BEHOLD!", Gwen stated dramatically, making the floating sex toys vanish to their original spots, then flings glowing red aura sparkles lighting up a rose pattern banner with a heart getting penetrated by a black dildo phallic shaped object above.

" 'A hole filled is a life fulfilled'?", Cheryl reads aloud, eyebrow raised as the others wore mixed expressions.

"That's right, love! ~So come with meee and you'll beee in a worrrlllld of lewd imagination~ Hoho!", Gwen playfully and whimsically sings, posing twirling some multicolored anal beads behind her then vanishing with a flash of reddish black mist.

"Well…she seems to like her job.", Cheryl remarks.

"A bit TOO much if ju ask me. Que raro(What a freak).", Camilla remarks, annoyed by the Bicorn.

"Still, it wouldn't hurt to look around, right? Why don't we browse this…colorful inventory?", Mirabelle suggests, wincing at the rainbow vibrator for larger liminals the length of her forearm.

"I second that! Hey, Lycs? Check this out!", Zwei stated, holding up a large green lollipop shaped like an eleven inch penis, "They got candy cocks! I wonder how many licks it would take to get to the center of these?"

"Oh, that's…cool, I guess." Lyca says, somewhat disinterested to Zwei's disappointment. Which makes Zwei frown in corner

"Put that down! We are not here to play!", Ein stated blushing while storming over to her. Ripping the candy away from her as she puts it back where Zwei got it from while she whined.

Mirabelle sighs internally, anticipating yet another difficult day.

…Elsewhere…

While that was going on, a dark gray Chevy truck could be seen pulling up to a flower shop with Andrew Junior behind the wheel. As the radio played Bishop Bullwinkle with him bopping his head to it, he then turns off the ignition and exits the vehicle.

He walks into the store, immediately greeted by the sweet smell of various flowers while silently thanking God the allergy genes skipped a generation or two. The sight of all the beautifully grown plants and flowers along with a whole section dedicated to Autumn seasonal holidays foliage including a cornucopia. He then sees the store's female Troll owner diligently working.

"Mornin' Mable! I see you back there.", he teased catching their attention.

"Ah! Oh! It's you, mister! Good morning!", The troll woman happily greets with a smile in her green apron and oversized boots to hide her feet, "Are you here for your pick-up?"

"That's right. Those other ones I got from you last time lasted almost two months without much watering. I don't know how you do it but you have a gift."

The troll woman smiles and lightly blushes at the compliment, "Hehe, me and just about every other Troll honestly. Oh, but, I don't want to keep you waiting!"

"Oh, nah, I'm in no hurry child. I've BEEN retired.", Andrew half jokes, knowing he did technically have more free time than most people but still had errands and other things to take care of.

"Ta-da! What do you think?"

Mabel returns with a beautiful bouquet of heirloom chrysanthemums that seemed to sparkle brilliantly in the light like fresh morning dew.

Andrew happily smiled at the sight of them, "They're beautiful. Thank you."

"Huhu, you know, chrysanthemums are usually widely associated with longevity and fidelity. They make a great gift for lovers and newlyweds. Do you perhaps have your eye on someone, mister?", Mabel knowingly smirks, cupping her face in her large hand covered by brown gardening gloves.

"Heh, you can say that. These always were her favorites."

"Oh my! Look at you on the prowl. I suppose age means nothing with enough willpower. Now I see YOU.", She giggles, teasing him back with a smirk.

"Child, at my age, I ain't prowlin'. I'm rollin'.", Andrew confidently jokes prompting a fit of laughter from the troll as he joins her for a moment, "Alright, I'll see you next time, Mabel."

"Ok, Mister! I hope it works out and she likes them. If not, I'll gladly take them.", She teasingly remarks, touching her large finger to her plump lip.

"So you'd have my money and your flowers back? I see what kinda game you runnin' now! Hehehe.", Andrew jokingly chuckles as the troll girl smiles and waved at him.

As Andrew happily makes his way back to his truck, he notices a man watching nearby restlessly pacing another car, teeth grinding impatiently. He notices Andrew walking by and locks eyes with him as the old man cautiously watches before taking out his keys, choosing to mind his own business. The restless man, taking his chance, reaches through the car window and stuffs a metal hammer in the back of his pants. As he begins walking towards the flower shop, ready for a decent pay day to fund his next high, he feels a large hand grab him by the arm tightly.

He then sees Andrew, glaring intently at the young man with an anger reminiscent of a parent about to beat the tar out of their misbehaving child.

"Don't. Even. Try it, boy.", Andrew spoke, every word laced with pure malice as his grip tightened with each word, hurting the young man.

The man recoils in fear trying to pull away from his painful iron-like grip before Andrew releases him, making him fall to the ground before hastily picking himself up and getting in his car and starting it. He quickly pulls from his space and takes off, tires screeching.

Andrew shakes his head in disappointment, glad Caleb and his daughter were nowhere near as bad as the new generation.

'Hopefully those other two have enough decency too', he thought, reminded of his niece and other nephew as he got into his truck.

…Back to the Sex Store…

Mirabelle and the others could be seen browsing Gwen's inventory. Zwei, Lyca and Cheryl curiously explored the unique toys for self-pleasure; at one point needing to awkwardly stop to explain how anal beads work to the She-wolf much to her concern for them mentally.

Mirabelle was engrossed in some steamy literature about sexual positions and techniques various species around the world practice. Her steaming red face buried in the book was proof that it was quite riveting.

Camilla curiously looked through a sections with toys, oils, perfumes, and other merchandise developed for or BY devil races; specifically Pyrows. She was a bit apprehensive about using items made by fiends of their…nature but couldn't deny her mischievous side and snuck a thought about special body oil and a couple of fun things that could be done.

Ein was, unsurprisingly, the least comfortable one of the group. She chose to monitor everyone from a distance for threats but everywhere she turned was cocks and vaginas in her line of sight. Zwei was wrong. This was somehow WORSE than Bangkok!

"HOLY shit! This is bigger than my leg!", Cheryl expressed in amazement, holding a five-foot-long dark brown thick dildo in both arms, "Those poor, POOR Minotaur women."

"Yeesh, at that point, they're not even fucking her spine. Their dick IS their spine. Supporting them like a coat rack.", Zwei heartily chuckles.

"Please stop fooling around! This is not a place to be so…so weird!", Ein stated, eyes covered, blushing feverishly unable to bare the sight of more phalluses.

"Ju are the one who brought us here and NOW ju are complaining? Does the sight of a hard cock bother ju that much? Miss Prude?", Camilla cheekily remarks, twirling a blue rubber dildo like a helicopter blade at the weasel to annoy her and forget her own horniness for a moment.

"J-Just hurry up and pick something so we can leave! And stop twirling that thing at me!"

"But it's so hard…", Lyca remarks in distress.

"They're ALL hard, Lycs. That's kinda the idea."

"No, I mean I don't know which one to choose. It feels so weird doing it with one of these…things. Mating is supposed to be with the real thing, right? That's what I grew up believing.", Lyca replies, examining the toys modeled after genuine Kobold peni. Where said models came from she didn't know or really care.

"I mean, I get what you're saying but it isn't JUST about doing it with the real thing. Using toys can be good practice.", Cheryl points out.

"But I don't NEED practice, maybe if I got these years ago before I met Ch–"

"CHAIRMAN BROWN!", Zwei loudly cuts her off, "Right! You told us about your old coordinators. Don't need to mention it again!", She stated as Cheryl raises an eyebrow and Ein sighs in relief. Lyca was confused about what she was talking about and then remembered Cheryl was nearby.

"Y-Yeah, that's right…good ol' Chairman Brown, yep.", Lyca plays along trying to be convincing.

"Ok? I get what you mean. Nothing can really compare to the real thing but it doesn't make pleasuring yourself any less real. Think of it more like self-love."

"Is that what ju tell yourself at night?", Camilla cheekily remarks.

"Not verbatim but kind of."

"Still, I just can't pick the one that suits me. I don't even know what THIS one says about me.", Lyca says in slight frustration, holding up a blunt, rigid hand with a flatter head compared to the other dildos.

Zwei tilts her head, raising an eyebrow, "Lycs, that's a hammer. It's just upside down."

Lyca pauses, turning it right side up, "...Oh."

"Oopsie! I'll just take that.", Gwen appears in a flash of red and black smoke, taking the hammer, "Sorry, love, working with so many phallic shaped objects all day makes everything seem…lewdable. Then again, I'm sure someone could get their rocks off with this somehow, eh? It just takes a little imagination, I reckon", She emphasized making a sparkly crimson rainbow overhead then chuckling, unnerving Ein a bit.

"Ju need to see a doctor.", Camilla plainly remarks.

"My Darling Darrell's father is a doctor. A gynecologist, in fact, if you can believe it!"

"With you, I'd say that's on brand.", Zwei remarks.

"Anyway, I couldn't help overhearing and I completely agree. Self-love is still love, if not, one of the best kinds of love. Nothing wrong with treating yourself special, so long as yer head stays on your HEAD and not up yer arse.", Gwen wholeheartedly stated as the others looked at her with mixed reactions; a few even ruminating on her words.

"I…actually can't disagree with you there…", Ein acknowledges.

"Ms. Rose, our friend's having a hard time, no pun intended, picking something that's right for her. Got any suggestions? Maybe something most Kobold liminals like getting?", Cheryl inquires as Lyca and the others look at her then Gwen.

"Hmm, if she's having trouble choosing she could sample them if she wants and see what fits. Pun…somewhat not intended.", Gwen suggests as they look at her curiously.

"Sample…the sex toys?", Cheryl dubiously inquires.

"Why yes! I have a special amenity for JUST this purpose!", Gwen happily stated before clapping her hand twice, summoning Messi to her side in a puff of red and black smoke.

"Yes, ma'am?"

"Messi, love, kindly show our customers to the 'Shag Rooms'"

"The what rooms?", Zwei questions.

"Understood. Right this was everyone.", Messi says

"Why can I feel my sanity plummeting by the second?", Ein utters with a worried expression.

As that was going on Mirabelle could be seen observing a display rack filled with lingerie and sexy costumes for various liminal body types but was mainly interested in the ones for centaur. She held up a cow patterned string bra top and matching centaurian panty set that seemed to barely cover much of. She then checks the new book of liminal bedroom activities she picked up focusing on the 'milking' instruction guide featuring a haulstar with a lewd expression performing it on her human partner.

'Well this barely leaves much to imagination, does it? Still…I wonder if Dear would like to try this? It could be fun.', She thought, blushing with a lewd grin imagining the scenarios together.

Suddenly, she hears the door to the establishment open and curiously peaks over the rack to see, to her surprise, another female centaur enters the building. They were dressed in conspicuous attire with a black hoodie, face mask, and black sunglasses looking around cautiously before spotting the rack of male enhancement products.

"Perfect.", The spoke before going over and rummaging through various libido enhancers and aphrodisiacal drugs, "Yes yes, this should help."

Mirabelle, becoming worried, uses the mist from her tail to camouflage herself, unsure of their intentions as she contemplates informing the others for their safety.

At that moment, Gwen appeared in a puff of reddish black smoke, beside her and innocently spoke, "Looking for something, love?"

"WAHHH!", the figures shrieks stumbling away, involuntarily dropping the product which stops halfway from shattered on the floor, glowing with red energy. The figure is taken aback then look to Gwen in shock.

"Whoopsie, that would've been a right nasty spill, I reckon. Sorry to startle you, love.", Gwen smiles, ruby eyes glowing, floating all the male products back in their original place.

The stranger sneers in disgust under her mask, looking the Bicorn up and down.

'Dammit. Of COURSE, it had to be another one of these heathens! And one of the licentious trollops at that! This state must have some kinda curse on it to attract these heretical filth. Still…'

"Listen, I am…seeking a specific item! One to help with a…specific issue a friend of mine has."

"Oh? Shopping for a 'friend'. Well your 'friend' has nothing to be ashamed of. Still, I suppose a little energy boost can't hurt when you're on the pull, ey?", Gwen teasingly remarks, smirking lasciviously.

"W-What are you babbling abou–"

Before the stranger could finish, Gwen snaps her fingers with a red magic seal in her palm, making the strangers hoodie, mask, and shades vanish in a flash of red, much to their shock. Mirabelle is equally shocked to the stranger was Aurelia in a bad disguise.

Aurelia is visibly stunned seeing her face fully exposed in such a place. Luckily, she was still wearing her white collar shirt.

"There we go, love. Isn't it better not to hide a beautiful face like that?"

"Better?! You think I want to be caught dead in a place like this?!"

"Blimey, I certainly hope not. That'd be a very awkward lawsuit on everyone's behalf.", Gwen joked.

"That's hardly the issue, heathen!"

'Whyisshehere? Whyisshehere?! Why is SHE here? Of all the shops in—alright, keep it together. She hasn't seen you. I just have to keep out her sight and—', Mirabelle thought to herself, involuntarily stepping back without thinking, bumping into a female elf sex doll knocking it down and getting the both centaurs' attention. Mirabelle, dispelling her camouflage, stood completely exposed as Aurelia,'s eyes widen in shock and anger, 'Oh fucking bullocks…'

"Ummm…apologies, Gwendolyn?", Mirabelle says, smiling awkwardly knowing she was totally screwed.

"Oh, no worries love. Those dolls can survive a few romps with the roughest of clients. I guarantee that!"

"YOU?! What in the name of Chiron are YOU doing here?!", Aurelia spat viciously, pointing a finger at Mirabelle startling her a bit.

"Apparently, getting a lesson on the craftsmanship of a randy doll.", Mirabelle bluntly replies, picking up the doll then plainly looking at Aurelia scowling face unenthused, "I'd ask you the same question but honestly I could care less."

"Why you worthless–"

"Calm yourselves, ladies. What's all this then?"

"Why not ask her? Not like you'll get a sensible answer. I certainly can't.", Mirabelle huffs, arms folded as Aurelia clenches her fists.

"Ah, so you both know each other then!", Gwen ecstatically spoke, clapping her hands together.

"We keep meeting.", "We keep meeting.", Mirabelle and Aurelia simultaneously spoke, shooting glares at each other.

"Splendid! I suppose you're just mates having a little squabble then, ey?"

"HELL NO! WE'RE BITTER ENEMIES! I've sworn to stamp out her wicked kind and that includes you, debaucherous trollop!", Aurelia fervently shouted, her eyes wide with maddened frustration pointing to Gwen who appears unfazed.

"So it IS squabble. A generational one, apparently. Like England and France, except less heads on pikes, hehe. I'm a bit of a history nut if you can't tell.", Gwen jokes as the two other Centaurs look at her curiously.

Aurelia sighs lethargically, "Haaaa, this was a mistake. I never should have come here.", she scoffs, turning to leave.

"Oh, don't be that, love. There's no need to be embarrassed."

"I'm NOT, heathen! I'm just leaving this filthy pen of degeneracy and heretics at once!", Aurelia rebukes glaring in disgust at her and Mirabelle, ignoring the burning sensation in her rear.

"Are you suuure about that? You can't quite hide your needs from me, love. I can smell the burnin' in your knickers from here.", Gwen slyly remarks with a smirk as Mirabelle looks at her then Aurelia in surprise.

Aurelia is visibly taken aback, her face red in embarrassment, "H-How do you–?!"

"Trust me, love, when you live with a clan of mostly Bicorn women you know when it's THAT time of year. So, what do ya say we put aside all this chironian/non-chironian nonsense and we take care of that burden of yours, eh?"

Aurelia looks at her curiously, ignoring Mirabelle for now, "What…EXACTLY did you have in mind?"

"First, I'd like to know what you were looking for here? I'm guessing something to help your male perform better and relieve your discomfort?", Gwen inquires, gesturing to the male supplements on display.

Mirabelle raises a confused eyebrow at Aurelia who appears more flustered and frustrated than before.

"I-It's NOT…well, maybe somewhat but…W-WHY DOES IT MATTER TO YOU?!"

"It matters because, though everything here is made with all natural ingredients, it's still best to know what he's compatible with. Don't want his body reacting negatively or worse, do we? It's best he be here so I can suggest the right one for him.", Gwen casually informs as Aurelia's eyes widen in surprise, "Maybe you can tell me a little about him?"

"W-Well, he's my beloved master! He's handsome…fairly tall, kind, selfless, dedicated, strong, and—", Aurelia proudly lists off traits, thinking about Christian.

"Gay.", Mirabelle casually interjects, arms folded as Aurelia smile drops, shooting angry glare her way, "He has no interest in women…at all."

"YOU SHUT YOUR MOUTH BEFORE I–"

"Oh, is that so?", Gwen curiously inquires before raising a skeptical eyebrow at Aurelia getting her attention, "And what exactly were you planning on doing to that sweet master of yours?"

Aurelia feels a lump in her throat feeling their judgemental gazes on her. Who were these filthy to look down on her? As if they could understand the burden she carries.

"W-What does it matter to YOU, filthy heathens!? J-Just because he doesn't look at me as such doesn't mean I can't serve him with my entire being! Naturally, the same can be said for him so–"

"Shut yo triflin' ass up.", Gwen cuts her off. Her voice was so full of anger she lost her Welsh accent for a moment. Her piercing red eyes and body glowing a menacing, demonic red aura with a look of pure disdain and malice. Mirabelle and especially Aurelia were visibly taken by her frightening form, "If there's one thing I CANNOT stand in this world is someone forcing others into giving them pleasure. That is something BOTH or more parties should choose together. The ultimate freedom and joy in life is being enthralled in pure, sloppy, unrestrained passion using one's entire being. Do you understand?"

Aurelia unclenches her fists glancing downward in thought and sighing in absolute shamefully, "...I…understand…"

"Good.", Gwen says, smiling as her aura quickly dissipates, "So with that, I cannot in good conscience sell you these supplements."

Aurelia grits her teeth in frustration, feeling her heat flaring up again at the thought of going another day enduring it. She then feels Gwens lift her chin to make eye contact, her ocean blues locked on her crimson pools.

"But don't worry, love, I have other things to help satisfy your needs. Let's see what tickles your fancy…and your phany huhu? Sounds like fun, eh?"

Aurelia eyes widen because realization of her close she was hits and she slaps Gwens hand away backing up, "K-Keep your hands off me, heathen! If…If you have something to help…t-then I'd like to see it at least just get on with it."

"Oh? Are you asking or telling?", Gwen tilts her head innocently, eyes closed and smiling with a hint of malice in her words.

Aurelia swallows her pride and begrudgingly answers, "Please?"

Mirabelle looks at her surprised with a tinge of satisfaction.

"Fantastic! It just so happened I have just the thing for our times like these. If you'll both follow me."

"Huh? W-Why me too?!", Mirabelle expressed, confused.

"Yes! WHY her too!", Aurelia added, equally displeased.

"It's always better and easier in a group. I may need some extra hands. This should be fun!", Gwen stated, grinning lasciviously and hungrily drooling at the thought. Aurelia and Mirabelle recoil, feeling a chill run up their spine.

"W-Well, who's going to watch the store then?", Mirabelle questions.

Gwen smirks then snaps her fingers making them spew red sparks fly. The front entrance and all the windows glow with red aura as a magic insignia featuring a cloven hoof and rose design appeared forming a powerful barrier, "Huhuhu, now no interruptions. It's usually slow around this time of the month anyway. Shall we proceed, lasses?"

"Wait! There's no–"

"FAN-tastic!", Gwen cuts Aurelia off, snapping her fingers, teleporting all three of them in a puff of black and red smoke to another area of the store.

…Back at I.A. research facility…

Over an hour passed since the doctor left after doing her usual session. Or at least that's how long Ash thought it's been. The personnel didn't allow clocks in her room believing the constant focus on time would be detrimental to her recovery or something.

As she sat in a bed staring up at the television, remote in bird hand with opposable thumb, even the channels on TV were mostly family-friendly movies, talk shows with famous liminal guests, and ICEP commercials. No news or even weather was allowed for the same stupid reason as the clocks.

She hated how regulated and restricted everything around her was. Her meals and even her showers were monitored for any biological changes. Not to mention being unable to leave this room spread her wings like any other Harpie. Deep in hee core she knew it was unnatural for her kind to be confined to feel the wind against her face.

Ash sighs loudly, flopping face down on her bed, wishing she could close her eyes and be somewhere, ANYWHERE else. Her memories may be unclear but, aside from the pain and betrayal, she remembers the only time she was truly happy; wrapped up in the embrace of black feathery arms. An indescribable warmth and smile flooding her senses. A tear rolls down her cheek before evaporating on her skin.

Suddenly, the audible sounds of her door opening suddenly get her attention. She sighs in mild annoyance at having to deal with them again before raising up.

'Haa, what could she want this t—', Ash thought before feeling a sharp prick on her neck. Her eyes widened when, to her shock, instead of the psychiatric lady it was a human male standing with a tranquilizer pistol in his hand. Her body quickly becomes heavy like cement as he casually urges her to sleep then gently pushes her back on the bed.

"Wow, you are true beauty up close. Finally managed to give those two the slip back and swipe that lady's card key. Those dark elves sure make some quality gear.", Craig spoke, holding examining a card key with the black dark elven glove used by assassins.

He then pulls out a small gray medallion with a magenta-colored crystal in the center from his pocket. It featured several dark elven ruins carved in. The crystal glows brightly prompting a magic seal to appear on the floor before several sample bags, syringes and collection jars arise out of it. He smiles in satisfaction looking at the medallion, "Damn this magic stuff is awesome! Ok, the security feed should go back online in 10 minutes so let's make this quick, sweetheart, then I'll bounce", he says, picking up a syringe, some clippers and tweezers.

Craig goes over and plucks out some of her feathers, admiring their brilliant sheen that reflects almost like a rainbow, then fills up two small bags. He then clips off the sharp ends of her talon feet, even collecting some avian scales, which immediately regenerate to his amusement. ICEP really got themselves the best cash cow possible, especially one so cute.

"Now this will only hurt for a moment but I don't think you will mind will you?" Craig said with a smile as he grabbed the syringe, seeing she was still knocked out. He sticks the need into the skin of her forearm and draws out a good amount of her blood. As he pulled it back out to draw some blood only for it to stop half way from being full confusing him. He pulled the syringe out and found the tip had been melted down and that when he felt the syringe quickly heating up burning his finger forcing him to let go of it. The syringe shatters when it hits the floor with her blood steam wafting from the puddle it left, "SHIT! Fuck, that's hot! Haaa, well, guess you're not a universal donor. That's ok I've still got a decent enough haul. My clients are gonna shit themselves over this stuff."

Craig then checks his watch, seeing he still had a few minutes, then he could use the dark elves cloaking medallion to make his way out of there. He looks at the asleep phoenix woman, noting her beautiful face and hair, full lips, and sexy, slender figure with shapely hips. He smirks, running his hand down her chest to her thigh, groping it a little.

"Heh, you really are a beauty. Much as I'd love to be the first human to do it with the legendary Phoenix, I'm on a schedule. That doesn't mean I can't take a few souvenirs of our time, right?", Craig mischievously spoke, taking out his phone and switching to camera.

Ash slowly felt her senses returning as did her strength. She could somewhat make out a discomforting sensation of something clawing and fumbling around her lower stomach then proceed to tug at her waist the spreading her limbs apart. She feels a sudden surge of adrenaline as if her body is responding to danger. Her vision clears as she raises up a little to find, much to her horror, a human male on top of her with her legs forced apart.

At that moment, flashes of several figures cloaked in shadows laughing and taunting her as one shoves something deep in her core making her scream loudly in pain.

"AAAAAHH!", Ash screams, surprising the human into stumbling backwards, as her wings burst into flames setting the bed on fire.

The human man is stunned speechless as the Phoenix stood to her feet, wings ablaze. He could've sworn he gave her enough tranquilizer to knock out a full-grown centaur for hours. Are phoenix much more resistant to the drug or something?!

At that moment, the sprinklers turn on from the smoke, spraying the entire room with water but the heat from the Phoenix wing was so intense the liquid merely on contact creating a thick steam obscuring vision. An alarm sounds, alerting any nearby personnel of Ash's volatile state.

"Shit!", Craig curses, realizing his cover was blown. He fumbles in his pockets locking for the dark elven medallion only to realize it had rolled near the phoenix's feet to his dismay as steam around slowly started vanishing since sprays ran out of fome.

"No…no…no…no no no no no…", Ash repeated

She is bombarded by flashes of painful memories of shadowy faced tormentors and traitors, the loud noise of her environment and the cold water striking her body, filled with uncontrollable terror and rage. She looks at Craig, eyes burning intensely, images and memories of others she knew flooding her senses and the name 'Mama Rose' repeating incessantly before clutching her head feeling like a red nail getting hammered through her skull.

"No…NO NO NO NO…", Ash screams approaching the human.

Craig reaches for his pistol in fear, hoping a few more doses would knock her out for good, "STAY BACK!"

Ash seeing the gun drawn, eyes widened at the memory of another gun getting pulled on her. The memory of someone, name unknown to her, being killed before her and a feeling of betrayal afterwards. Following that was indescribable pain from the body being torn apart piece by piece, outside and inside as their laughs and that name 'Mama Rose' repeated threatening to tear her skull apart. Finally, she couldn't take it anymore.

"RAAAAAAAHHHHH!", Ash screams to heaven, her entire body bursting into auburn flames then explodes in flames like a bomb going off. Craig screams in agony as his entire body is engulfed in flames, along with everything else in the room. Ash body erupts like a volcano blast straight through the ceiling much to the horror of everyone in the facility as alarms sound off. A pillar of fire stands from the building forming into a red-eyed bird of flames as Ash bursts out of the room, taking off into the sky leaving a trail of embers.

Dr. Graham and several I.A. security personnel quickly rush into the room only to find, much to their shock, the entire area charred to a crisp. The equipment destroyed beyond repair and what appeared to be a human body lying on the floor which Dr. Graham insists on seeing personnel. She looks over the body seeing it was burned beyond recognition with almost everything on burn away.

"Uhh, Dr. Graham…?", one of the security personnel gestured to her.

She carefully walked through the rubble looking stunned at the damage as three floors above them including the ceiling had giant, smoldering holes above them. Even worse, there was no pheonix in sight.

…Back at the sex shop…

Cheryl and the others could now be seen in a large hallway with five black doors labeled by big red numbers dubbed the 'Shag Rooms'.

Messi guided them on how to use the amenities and stood in the doorway of the 'number one' room. It was a rather spacious area decorated with black and red hearts. There were comfortable chairs, shelves and hooks for placing toys and clothing, respectively, along with a small disinfecting sink, wet disinfectant wipe and large mirror. Despite their…purpose, they smelled surprisingly clean.

"So, we ask that you please use the disinfectant station when you finish and follow instructions for cleaning your area.", Messi happily explained, "And feel free to be as loud as you please, these rooms are completely soundproof."

"Seriously?", Cheryl curiously asks.

"Yep! Watch. HOOHHH—", Messi steps inside one of room, sings loudly then closes the door, cutting off her voice completely before opening and closing it a few times to further illustrate her point. Cheryl and Zwei nod impressed, their heads swirling with ideas.

"That's…impressive but I have a question.", Ein spoke.

"Is it…how can she sing that loud with no vocal chords?", Zwei raises an eyebrow as Messi tilts her head then touches her chin in thought.

"...Ok, TWO questions but what are those in the corner?", Ein point to two human-sized dolls, male and female, near the corner of the room.

"Ah! Sorry I forgot, those are your practice buddies.", Messi answers as the girls look at her inquisitively.

Cheryl leans in close, "Go on…"

"Do not go on! I think we can piece together what they're for!", Ein stated, cheeks flushed.

"Jes, especially when one of their cocks is sticking out like a broom handle.", Camilla remarks, gestures his finger at the fake man's hard-on.

"I was trying NOT to notice it!"

"Oh if you don't like that one you can just swap it out for your preferred size.", Messi said while extending her arms like tendrils grabbing the male doll then removing the dildo attached, widening a few eyes, then swapping it for a dark blue Kobold dildo, "Every one of our toys can be freely attached or detached whatsoever doll you want. Same for the female. Plus, they're made tough by the Mistress' good friend. You can practice on them any way you want!"

Ein blushed heavily as the gears in the other girls' heads were visibly turning.

"Is there a time limit or anything?", Cheryl asks with a hopeful gaze.

"Nope, go as long as you need to."

"Say LESS!", Zwei stated, vanishing at blinding speed leaving an after image before returning with a gentle breeze holding an armful of dildos, vibrators, and anal toys, "I've been looking to experiment, maybe find a few new toys for my collection."

"You are WAY too into this you know?! And what do you mean COLLECTION?!", Ein chastised.

"This is the coolest sex store I've ever been in.", Cheryl remarks, wiping a tear from her eye as Ein gives a dubious side eye, "Is lube part of the trial experience?"

"There's a bottle of cocoa oil in each room for your leisure. If you want a different variety you'll have to buy up front. I can recommend my favorites!"

"That WON'T be necessary!", Ein stated.

"Ahh, lighten up sis, you know as they say 'When in Rome…lube up and fuck a dildo.'", Zwei shrugs mischievously as her sister visibly blushes in frustration, "Ready to try out a few toys, Lycs?"

"Huh? You…wanna help me use these?"

"I mean, you said you're new to this sorta thing, right? Why don't I show you how us single girls get down? Right, Cheryl?"

"Damn right!", Cheryl rocks her head sassily before realization hits her like a brick, "Aww, I just made myself sad."

"Your own fault and as for YOU, don't you think that's pretty freakin' weird doing that together?", Ein contested.

"Not really, we're both girls. I'm just showing her the right way to masturbate, nothing weird about any of this.", Zwei assured giving a thumbs up.

"I beg to differ!"

"She's got a point actually, some girls from my old university showed me a few—", Cheryl says before Camilla interrupts.

"Ugh, can ju all JUST shut up?! We're here to relieve ourselves with these STUPIDO toys in this STUPIDO store! Might as well get on with it!", Camilla begrudgingly stated, conjuring a blue seal and pulling out what looked to be a dark brown eight inch dildo from the human-sized section.

Ein could only stand their befuddled thinking, 'Where on earth did she put that…?'

"Oh, you picked one of the human variety? You know we have replicas of male devils too for a demoness of your stat–"

"Jes, I saw! Not interested.", Camilla firmly stated, thinking about the large devil cocks on display. She felt sick looking at them wanting to destroy every single one with her spells, "This will do fine."

"Well, alright then. As for the rest of you, if you intend to pair up, we have strapons available for use.", Messi happily points out garnishing mixed reactions.

"I may regret the answer but… what the hell is a 'strapon'?", Ein fearfully asks.

"Basically, a dildo you attach to a harness around your waist. Women, usually subs or lesbians, use them for sex with other women…or men if they're into that.", Cheryl explained as Zwei's eyes lit up in intrigue.

"Why do I keep asking questions that cause me pain?"

"Ooh, maybe you're a masochist? We have a section for that. Are you top or bottom?", Messi casually asks.

"What does THAT even mean?!"

"Hm, bottom it is." messi said confidently as Zwei nodded in agreement

"Stop messing around! And none of that strap-on nonsense!"

"Agreed.", Camilla chimes in as Zwei frowns in disappointment.

As Camilla, Lyca and Zwei each go to their respective rooms, Ein stood with an awkward feeling unsure what to do with herself. She could act as a guard except could she REALLY work effectively in a place…so full of distractions?

"Well, while they're experimenting, I think I'll check those devil cocks the slime girl mentioned", Cheryl remarks walking past Ein, much to the weasels surprise.

"Wait! Where do you think you're going?!"

"I…just said it."

"No, we're here for THEM remember? We're not here to…indulge in personal fun!", Ein firmly stated.

"Of course not. That doesn't mean we can't enjoy ourselves too.", Cheryl replies as Ein looks at her surprised, "No need to be so tense, lighten up, like Zwei said. Anything you want me to grab for you?"

"N-No! And…I don't need to 'lighten up' it's just not the kind of stuff I'm into. Ok?"

"Alright, you do you. Maybe I'll see if Mirabelle found anything she likes.", Cheryl spoke before realization hits, "Come to think of it, I haven't seen her in a hot minute. "

Ein's ears stand up upon hearing that a sense of dread slowly crept in.

"I'll go look for her. You stay here.", Ein advised, hoping to get a few minutes away from anything phallic shaped.

Cheryl shrugs then turns her attention to one of the devil dildos on display and curiously presses a button. It immediately starts vibrating intensely then rotating much to her shock, "IT FUCKIN' SPINS?!"

…In a secluded room…

While all that was going on, Mirabelle and Aurelia could be seen standing flabbergasted in a large room lit by light pink and red lights, decorated with velveteen wallpaper, scents of lavender from sensors above and filled with various bondage gear, whips, saddles, chains, cuffs, and gags modeled specifically for centorean bodies.

"Welcome, Love, to the Velvet Room!"

"W-What is this place?! Some sort of sex dungeon within a SEX DUNGEON?!", Aurelia stated incredulously as Mirabelle appeared equally confused.

"In a way, yes. Believe it or not, the contractors didn't even know about this room when I purchased the building! Jackpot as the yanks say, ey? Though, it's mainly a little space where I can work on new ideas for self-pleasure toys for centaurs and other non-bipedal liminals.", Gwen emphasized showing a large red workbench with tools, a laptop and 3D printer, and various phallic and vulva schematics.

"My word, you certainly…are passionate about your work"

"Of course! When it comes to pleasure, nobody knows what stirs a non-humans' loins better than we. I've honed my craft! Practiced geometry and spell crafting everyday, calculated the diameter and curvature of every cock and phany to accommodate even the pickiest of orifices!"

"You're a bloody mad scientist of sex, huh?!"

"Ugh, apísteftos(unbelievable). I expect nothing less from a filthy subspecies like you.", Aurelia expressed in disgust as Mirabelle glared in displeasure at her comment.

"I take that as a compliment.", Gwen responded with a smile not even a little offended much to Aurelia annoyance, "There's another reason this place is special. My beloved Darrell and I like to experiment with my creations on his off days.", She emphasized gesturing above to a portrait of herself and Darrell happily posing in BDSM attire.

Mirabelle smiles awkwardly while Aurelia stares in surprise at how happy the pair looked. A jealous frown grows on her face hardly believing even someone like her could find a suitable master.

"Now, speaking of creations—", Gwen snaps her fingers, causing a large black tripod stand to appear in a flash of red smoke. Perched on top was black leather saddle-like structure except notable large and had thick gripper straps on each side. The underside featured a round metallic socket. Mirabelle and Aurelia observe the strange device with varying curiosity, "BEHOLD, LASSES! My latest device for treating the bothersome heat cycle of a centauress!"

"Oh my, it certainly looks…unique?"

"It just looks like a weirdly shaped saddle to me.", Aurelia skeptically spoke, arms folded.

"That's where you're wrong, Love. This babe conceived from mine and my Darrell's lewd imaginations!"

"How does it work? It looks too unstable to put on her back."

"That cuz it goes on her bum.", Gwen casually remarks earning blushing, wide-eyed stares from both centaur women.

"I beg your damn pardon?", Aurelia questions.

"You heard me, love. It's perfectly designed so one's human can pound your bum even on the go. Ohhh. The sensation of my Darrell's tool rattling my behind as I trot around, reaching spots I never knew I had…woo!", Gwen reminisced, drooling slightly with a lewd smile, "It's why we dubbed it the 'Patty Cake Trot or PCT' saddle.", she informed as Mirabelle's face became bright red and wide-eyed like dinner plates.

'Ok, this woman might be a bit looney.', Mirabelle thought to herself.

"ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR MIND?! How does this…abomination help me?", Aurelia stated, blushing fiercely in frustration.

"It will, if I have your permission to proceed with treatment."

Aurelia looks at her incredulously, then realized she didn't have many other options so begrudgingly answered, "FINE! Just…get it over with already!"

"Brilliant!", Gwen snaps her fingers, eyes glowing red causing the various straps and ropes to bind Aurelia's legs, much to her shock, forcing her into a kneeling then binding her arms behind her back. The other ropes wrap themselves tightly around her upper and lower body and form intricate web-like patterns that tighten around her ample breasts, luscious curves, even her private regions. Mirabelle is left utterly stunned.

"W-WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS?! Release me, you DEMON!", Aurelia shouted while struggling to get free only for the restraint.

"G-Gwen, isn't this going a tad overboard?", Mirabelle inquires, slightly concerned.

"Nonsense. Don't worry that royal purple head of yours. It's all part of the treatment, love. Now, be a dear and grab the PCT."

"O-Ok?", Mirabelle reluctantly does as requested.

"You FUCKING heathens! You filth! What are you two scheming?!", Aurelia demanded, thrashing wildly trying to free herself.

"Simple, in lieu of a handsome stallion we'll be using this special attachment.", Gwen says conjuring a foot long black and red Centorean dildo much to Aurelia shock, "This bugger is filled with a special vitamin enriching fluid compound my clan makes to simulate male semen. Your estrogen filled body won't even know the difference."

"Y-You're depraved! A lunatic! My mother warned me about women like you!", Aurelia pointed an accusatory finger at her.

"Oh, she sounds like a right proper slag. Guess the apple fell straight down, eh?", Gwen casually responds, promptly fastening the male appendage to the saddle, drawing it back with a spring-loaded mechanism.

"You! Both of you will PAY for this! THE SECOND I'M FREE I'LL DRIVE MY BLADES THROUGH YOUR–mmph hmph?!", Aurelia's cursing was silence when Gwen snaps her fingers making a horse mouth gag appear in her mouth as she elicits muffled yells in protest. She snaps his fingers again blindfolding her with black cloth.

"I really feel like we're committing a crime here!", Mirabelle stated, unsure if she should be a part of this.

"Nonsense! If anything, it's a medical treatment."

"Medical malpractice, maybe!"

"Alrighty, Aurelia, are ya ready?!", Gwen asks, gripping the long end of the rope as Aurelia shouts muffled, hate-filled obscenities back at her and Mirabelle struggling as the ropes radiate red aura, "I'll take that as a 'yes'!"

Gwen yanks the ropes, tightening the ones around Aurelia's body prompting the blonde centaur to throw her head back howling to the ceiling. Ripples of Gwen's mana spread from the ropes and permeated into Aurelia's body and, along with the pain, an undeniable pleasure in its purest form ripples throughout her body. The ropes dig into smooth skin, squeezing every inch of her body in a strong, comforting embrace unlike anything the centauress has experienced.

"O-Oh my…", Mirabelle expressed, covering her mouth.

"Haha! That's the ticket, Love!"

Gwen yanks the ropes tighter as Aurelia arches her back crying out, making her breasts flop widely. Gwen slacks off on the restraints, giving Aurelia a chance to catch her breath before yanks the ropes again. She repeats this a few more times as the centauress gradually submits.

'What…what is this? My body…these binds…they hurt me so yet…what is this warmth…this tingling permeating my flesh?', Aurelia thought as the ropes tightened around her breasts, rubbing against her womanhood, gripping every inch of her tender flesh.

Though she was trapped and powerless, at the mercy of this heathen woman, a part of her couldn't help feeling strangely elated, even safe. Not only that, the warmth spreading throughout her body quickly morphed into hot pleasure. She could feel her hardened nipples rubbing against her shirt, the hot, wetness building up in both of her womanhood that was intense than ever before. She craved attention. She needed satisfaction, now.

Mirabelle observes, partially covering her eyes with a flustered blush unable to comprehend what was happening right now. Her arch nemesis was being dominated in front of her through erotic foreplay. Sure, she could just teleport out of the room and not be subjected to this but part of her was too intrigued to move.

"Alright, looks like she's nice and ready Mirabelle love! Hold this a tic!", Gwen stated, placing the reins into Mirabelle hands much to her surprise.

"Eh?! M-Me?! I don't think I can–"

"Only for a tic while I set her up, love.", Gwen says, kneeling down with the PCT saddle, lifting up Aurelia skirt to expose her rear causing the blonde centaur to squirm in protest, "Oi, give her a good yank or two!"

Mirabelle glances around in panic then shuts her eyes yanking the rope as hard as she could, eliciting loud, muffled moans of pleasure from the blonde centauress. Mirabelle looks at Aurelia in surprise by the reaction. A strange satisfaction flows through her, awakening a primal urge to punish the foul-mouthed tart before her as a slightly sadistic smile slowly forms.

Gwen hooks the saddle in place with her soaking wet entrance, "Cheers, love! It's ready! I'll take it from here!"

"O-Oh! Yes, of course!", Mirabelle obliges, snapping back to her senses, handing the reins back.

Gwen pulling the ropes tighter and triggering a chain reaction on the PCT that moves the artificial male attachment. Aurelia's eyes widened in pure shock, feeling something hard spreading her rear lips apart.

"Get ready for the sweet relief, love!", Gwen expressed, yanking the chord and plunging the appendage deep inside her core.

Aurelia throws her head back shouting her muffled jubilant cries feeling herself being spread apart. Her bodily instinct took over as her wall constricted the appendage. Every yank of the chord, thrusting it deeper and stimulating her nerves. A strong sense of satisfaction overwhelmed her senses as waves of pleasure ripple throughout her body with every thrust and ropes enduring she feels every bit of it.

Mirabelle's heart raced, breathing ragged as she watched Aurelia bursting at the seams in pure ecstasy. A small growing part of her wanted to experience it as well. She immediately flushed bright red in realization.

"I…I'll let you take it from here Gwen!", Mirabelle blurted before teleporting out of the room, not giving the bicorn a chance to respond.

Gwen tilts her head with a curious expression before tightening the ropes again.

Mirabelle reappears outside, hands against the wall and panting with her head low and heart racing. She takes a deep breath trying to calm herself from too much overstimulation. Still, she couldn't deny how unbelievably arousing the sight was, even if it was for that hateful tart's benefit. She wondered how it would feel to be bound and gagged like that by her Dear. The thought alone was strangely exciting yet a little sad.

"There you are, Ms. Marequine!", came the voice of Ein startling the nightmare.

"Ah! Oh, it's you Ein."

"Where were you? I've been—"

Ein was then cut off by the loud slightly muffled moans of unbridled pleasure behind a large red door marked private. She could also hear Gwen's ecstatic voice shouting 'Splendid love!'.

"W-What on earth is going in there?!"

"You don't want to know.", Mirabelle replies, refusing to elaborate as she walks past her, cheek blushing.

Ein looks between her and door, flinching at the sudden whip cracking sound and subsequent scream of pleasure then hastily following Mirabelle.

..Back at the facility…

Several I.A. personnel could be seen walking through examining the charred remains of the Phoenix holding room while a few dozen ContractAnts could be seen diligently repairing the floors.

"What are we looking at in damages?" Director Parks asked the human personnel team leader.

"Well, just with the damage to the equipment in this room alone could run a little over eleven grand. As for the damages to the other floors…well…", He says looking up at the giant partially smoldering holes going up each of the floors, "Thank God we upgrade the building to remove fuel lines. What the hell kind of liminal could do this?"

"The kind we have regulations for.", Director Parks plainly replies before turning away, "Continue and inform the ContractAnt leader to save any loose debris they find."

"Understood."

Parks notices Dr. Graham finishing a conversation with one of the wood elven medical personnel then approached him.

"I just got the report from the other floors, five cases of first and second degree burns currently in the infirmary and only one confirmed death. Coincidentally, it was the one who started all this given what little we saw from the security feed. Most of it was corrupted.", Graham informs, gesturing to the two elven personnel lifting a black body bag into a stretcher.

"How did he even slip away from us?"

"Apparently he had a few unique tools on him.", Dr. Graham emphasized, whipping out an evidence bag that he had three small stone medallions with bright colored gems and dark elven carvings.

"Mythril Medallions? I thought we'd banned their imports into this country years ago?"

"Well, it seems he got a new source to sell them and infuse unique single-use dark elven spells into them. Though, I'd say that's the least of our worries for now.", Dr. Graham explained before looking up at the ceiling despondently, "To think this is the kind of power she's been holding back. That poor girl."

"That 'poor girl' just killed someone and injured several of our workers!"

"Don't you dare blame her! She's just suffering a relapse of her trauma! She's confused and terrified after whatever that scumbag did to her!", Dr. Graham stated, feeling ashamed for not having security kick out that man when she had the chance.

"Dr. Graham, I understand how you feel but our top priority is the safety of the public. That girl is an extremely powerful, mentally unstable, and dangerously unpredictable liminal and needs to be treated as such! I've already begun deploying MON's special operations teams to recapture her. Maybe call in The Elements team in Georgia; pretty sure half their units could subdue her.", Director Parks informs as Graham looks at him in shock.

"You can't be serious, sir!"

"I'm DEADLY serious, doctor. You said it yourself, she's confused and terrified. Meaning she's capable of just about anything!", he rebuts as she reluctantly withdraws, unable to deny the severity of the situation, "Now then, we should also get our report straight when we inform Director Greenley and Agent Sterling. I can definitely see that going over well.", he shook his head, anticipating another headache.

Dr. Graham looks to the blackened, malformed remains that used to be Ash's bed sadly.

'Ash…please be safe…', Graham thought, worried for the girl.

... Meanwhile…

Further away in the northwestern area of Huntsville, there was a large cemetery called 'Memory Garden' filled with headstones with flowers, reefs, and other memorial tributes to loved ones.

It was here that Andrew Bizzell Junior could be seen walking up to one of the headstones, bouquet and small bag over his shoulder. He kneels, cursing and grunting under his breathe at the discomfort in his knees—getting old sucks.

"Hey Elizabeth, sorry I haven't been around awhile.", He warmly spoke looking at a picture of his smiling wife, noting the wilted and shriveled flowers in a clear vase of dirty water. There were noticeable weeds around her grave, evidence the groundskeeper hasn't been around either. Luckily, he always brought his own tools.

He spent the next ten minutes diligently cleaning the grave, removing all the weeds, changing out the flowers and water, and wiping off any dirt and rainwater stains from her headstone, until it was back in pristine condition. He smiles at his work when he was done, staring at the photo with memories of their happiest days together coming back.

"A lot sho'nough changed, huh? Elizabeth? It feels like ten years just flew by like that.", Andrew spoke to his wife smiling to himself, "A lot's happened lately. Would you believe we've got some liminal church members now? And some of'em are Devils! And would you believe me that I was able to convince CALEB to come out to our church?! Somehow THAT'S more surprising than the devils!", he chuckles heartily. "His girl's were there too I know you would loved them."

"Vanessa's doing good too. She's working on finishing a social worker certification. Apparently, now they have special courses funded by ICEP now for dealing with liminal clients too. Can you imagine someone with HER temper dealing with a goblin or dragon or something? Honestly I'd be more worried about THEM getting chewed out by her. She really got a lot more of your hot blood in her than mine."

As he mused at how ludicrous it sounded, his mind suddenly drifted back to those days when he, his wife and Vanessa were living together. The days before ICEP, host families, and liminals in general. When humans were the ONLY crazy fools they had to worry about. He always wondered how his wife and his younger sister would react to this new world with all the non-humans becoming a part of every day life. Literal dog people in Walmart, spider women selling clothes online, cyclops as bus drivers, actual mermaids on Instagram—it was enough to make someone his age's head spin.

His wife was always the most stubborn but reasonable one in the house so she'd probably be the slowest to accept them. Marian, his younger sister, on the other hand, would probably be too excited by the prospect of interacting with them to care much about the dangers. She'd always been the adventurous one growing up and that persisted WELL into their adulthood. If accepting change was a person, she'd be the poster child and the spokesperson.

In many ways, Caleb was a lot like her.

Andrew frowns as his thoughts turn more to the current state of his family. Between his wife's sickness and the accident that fractured them all, he wonders how his wife would feel.

"Everything's…a mess Elizabeth. I wish…I wish I could've done something that day. I could've told them not to worry and I'd handle him. I…", Andrew spoke, feeling a lump in his throat before retracting his statement and sighing in acceptance, "I wish you were here, Baby. You always knew what to say to set me straight when I was confused. I'm sorry that…I haven't kept our promise. Guess I'm a bit too much of a coward to move on.", Andrew spoke with a sad chuckle wiping away a few tears before standing up, groaning a bit at the pain in his knees. He looks at his wife's headstone again, gently touching the top of it before walking away silently promising to return soon.

As he makes his way back to his vehicle, he then hears a voice male call out.

"Excuse me, sir?", they said, getting Andrew's attention.

He turns to see a tall Caucasian human male in professional attire accompanied by a short liminal woman with pale blue skin, ghostly whitish gray hair, haunting purple eyes, and dressed in dark purple robes along with a hood, black skirt and white button up oddly enough her feet were bare. A large metal cross adorned with purple eye-like ornaments floated behind her and she carried a black book that emitted an otherworldly aura. In fact, her entire short frame and seemingly emotionless gaze radiated an unearthly presence. A Lich.

"May we have a moment of your time?"

"Sorry son, I'm not looking to buy whatever y'all are selling.", Andrew Junior quickly dismissed.

"Oh, we're not exactly sales people sir."

"Jehovah witness? I see she carrying a big'ol cross behind her like Jesus.", Andrew gestures to the short pale woman who looks at him seemingly unamused.

"No, we are not Jehovah witnesses. Excuse my intrusion but I saw you talking to that grave earlier, I'm guessing it's someone very close to you?", the mysterious man asks.

Andrew Junior raises a suspicious, "It was my wife. She passed away ten years ago."

"I'm so sorry to hear that, sir."

"I'm sure you are, young man.", Andrew Junior replied, unamused by such a cliche fake sympathetic line, "If we're done here, I have other business to take care of—"

"Would you like to see her again?", the Lich girl casually asks, catching the older man and her partner off guard.

"Little girl, what in the world did you say?", Andrew Junior inquired, offended by the girl's cruel sense of humor.

"Wait sir! She didn't mean any offense by it! Alvida?! What did we say about bedside manners?!"

"He said he was busy so I thought it best we just cut to the chase. Though, it appears he's now upset.", Alvida replies plainly, tilting her head.

"No crap! Agh, sir, I'm so sorry. Allow me to introduce ourselves, I'm Charles and this is Alvida. We're representatives of a new start-up program called 'Un-Life'."

"UN–Life?"

"Yessir, short for 'Undead Life'. With more and more 'Undead' liminals appearing in this country, it's been raising questions on the efficacy and moral ambiguity of extending one's life via becoming an Undead. There's also the question of resurrection of the dead using the power of certain liminals like my partner here.", Charles explains, gesturing to Alvida.

"Resurrection…of the dead?", Andrew Junior says looking at the man in shock.

"Yes, sir, I know what you're probably thinking! Believe me, the topic has been brought up and vilified by many right-wing religious groups and called an insult to the natural order, yadda yadda. But, is it really? Or is it simply a way to reunite those lost or taken before their time?!", Charles emphatically stated as Andrew raises a curious eyebrow, "That is what we hope to give people."

"I…I still don't follow what you're trying to do…"

"We want to give people like you the option to be reunited with those you love.", Alvida clarifies, opening the black book as it radiated purple aura, "As a lich, my kind can revive the dead as a living corpse but, unlike most Zombies, their bodies are far better preserved and fully restored to their condition prior to death. They retain all their memories and original personalities so you don't need to worry about any 'Pet Semetary' nonsense. You could be with your wife again. Or anyone else you've lost."

Andrew Junior's eyes widened in surprise at the thought, "Elizabeth…?"

"However, we 'legally' don't have the ordinance from ICEP and the federal government to do so…yet.", Charles emphasized as Alvida folds her arms pouting in annoyance then present a light purple information slip with company logo feature Lich cross, "That's why we are asking you to sign this petition slip including your name, address, number, and person you wish to revive. Our goal is 1000 participants and we're already halfway there!"

Andrew Junior looks at the slip of paper a moment then in the direction of his wife's grave.

"So, what do you say sir?", Charles asks with a smile.

Andrew Junior thought to himself, the memories of his wife and sister going through his mind before making his decision…and handed the blank paper back to the man, "Thank you but…it's a no from me."

Charles and Alvida looked at him with surprise and confusion, respectively.

"No? You're really going to pass on this?"

"Yeah, I mean don't you…want to see your loved ones again?"

"Of course I do…but not like this."

"Listen, if it has anything to do with your religious beliefs, I can understand and respect that but it's still kind of a waste. We humans have been given a means to revive and BE revived from death itself. Isn't that not worth making use of?!", Charles contested.

Andrew Junior sigh looking up at the blue cloudy sky, "You're right young man, I do consider myself a saved Christian man. Part of me knows this is wrong but not JUST because the Bible says so. I mean it also said the devil is the enemy of all mankind…yet one saved my nephew's life, twice."

Charles and Alvida look at each other curiously.

"So why then?", Alvida asks.

"... Because…it's not my right to do so.", Andrew plainly says to them, "I can't speak for the Undead like your friend about their circumstances for existing. It could be things out of their control or maybe that's what you want to become. If so, I can respect that decision. But one thing I will not do, is bring my wife, my sister, my daddy or even my mother back to this hell of a world because of MY wants and needs. That is selfish. I don't have the right to choose that for them when they can't answer back. If I can't live on without them, then I didn't deserve them when they were living!"

Charles and Alvida look at him, floored by his response.

"I appreciate you two for offering this but I don't need it. I know I'll see my wife and everyone else again when my number is called. Until then, I have plenty more living and work to do while I'm alive.", Andrew Junior says, turning and walking away to his vehicle.

Charles reaches out to say something but quickly withdraws, knowing it's pointless.

"When his number is called huh?", Alvida remarks ponderously then smirks, "You humans have such simplified ways of viewing things. I can't decide if it's a strength or weakness."

"What do you mean?"

"I mean, let's take a break and get some lunch. I want tacos.", Alvida says walking away.

"Wha? Hey! Wait up!"

…Back to the girls…

In the Shag Rooms, Lyca and Zwei could be seen using their respective toys. After showing her different masturbation techniques to get the maximum amount of pleasure out of them, Zwei could be seen panting and moaning on her knees riding her dildo attached to a mannequin cowgirl style with Lyca beside her in a similar state but slightly less enthusiastic.

"Haa…Haa…Chief…Chief…", Lyca moaned softly, eyes closed using her imagination. Despite the size and shape almost matching her mate's, even stimulating her favorite spots, it was still lacking in the genuine heat and liveliness she was accustomed.

Zwei kept glancing at her, becoming more excited from watching her undulate her sexy abs and plump thighs. Still, her technique was as energetic as she normally is with Caleb but considering the circumstances.

"Haa…Haa…I…I just can't…", Lyca gradually slows her pace before stopping completely and raising up, removing the toy from her body, much to Zwei's concern, as she plops down her back to the wall hugging her legs.

"H-Hey, Lycs what's wrong?", Zwei asks, removing herself from her own toy, "Is that one not doin' it for you? We can try the devil dildo! It even rotates. That's crazy, right!?"

"I don't want this…thing! It's not the same. It's not Chief.", Lyca whined, tossing the toy against the wall, ears folded sadly, "I miss Caleb."

Zwei scratches her head, knowing it couldn't be helped, then sits down beside her, "I know you do. We…all kinda do in some way but…it's not like he'll be gone forever. He'll be back so we just gotta hang in there. You're a strong girl so…I'm sure he believes you."

Lyca goes silent in thought for a moment, "Zwei?"

"Yeah, Lycs?"

"Do you…like Chief?"

Zwei looks at her confused but plays it off, "Well, of course I like Boss. Sure, I'm his bodyguard but he's a cool guy. Who wouldn't like a guy who makes your meals and plays video games with you?"

"No, I mean do you LIKE Chief…as a mate?", Lyca plainly asks, looking her in the eyes.

Zwei's eyes widen and face flushed at the question, "W-What are you talkin' about? Sure he's…a great guy and all but I don't like him like that. Come on.

"Then why were you saying his name so much under your breath while you used that thing?", Lyca inquires, gesturing to the soaking wet dildo as Zwei's face turns bright red in embarrassment.

"That's…well…I uh…it's not what…I just don't have many guy crushes so…", Zwei stutters becoming a mess, realizing there was NO easy way to explain herself.

Lyca snorts, barely suppressing a chuckle and giggling at her friends embarrassment.

"W-What?! W-W-Why are you laughing at me?!"

"Hehehe, you're just so cute when you're embarrassed, Zwei. You look so much more honest."

Zwei blushes even harder, immediately burying her face in her knees and groaning, "Uughhhh, just kill me."

"Why would I do that? I'd be happy to share Chief with you.", Lyca assured with a smile to Zwei surprise.

"But…I just…it isn't just my decision."

"Well yeah, you'll have to tell Chief too and see if he'll be fine with it."

"No, I mean it's my sisters too. Karmaitachi have…special practices for this kind of thing so…Ein and Drei would…", Zwei trails, becoming more uncomfortable as she continues. Memories of her life back home searching for mates flashing before her followed by cold, hard rejection after rejection and disgusted faces. Remembering one in particular caused her to tense up as she shuts her eyes tightly.

She's then brought out her memories upon feeling Lyca's furry arms wrap around her, pulling her into a warm hug.

"Why not ask them too? Maybe they like Chief too. If so, the same principle applies." Lyca asked innocently with a small, warm grin that made Zwei blush and heart race. "Then we all could be one big family together wouldn't that be wonderful?"

"I…Ok. I'll at least ask."

Lyca smile widened, then looks to the dildo standing erect on the mannequin, "You know, those toys aren't too bad. I don't feel nearly as uncomfortable as before. It's kinda like a bad itch has been scratched."

"Oh really? That's good. Now you see the appeal of girl toys, huh?"

"Kinda, though I still prefer the real thing. I'm sure when Chief gets back you'll see what I mean.", Lyca slyly winks at her.

"What's with that sudden SAUCINESS?!", Zwei blurts out, her face bright red flustered as Lyca giggles in amusement.

While that was going on, Mirabelle and Ein could seen heading back to the Shag Room, noticing Cheryl and Messi looking over some sensual bath salts that heighten touch receptors.

"I will never understand what Zwei sees in this stuff. What's so great about…", Ein trails off in her thoughts a saddened frown appearing then shakes it off, "Nevermind, I just hope those two are satisfied enough so we can leave."

Mirabelle glances at the tall weasel woman, sensing her frustration which she perfectly understood considering…everything so far, but knew there was something more.

"Ein? If…stuff like this really makes you that uncomfortable, you didn't have to come here. Cheryl and I could keep the others in check.", Mirabelle replied

"I know but it's my job to protect you all. My reservations come second to your safety. Even if it means seeing a hard phallus every five fucking seconds.", Ein says, arms folded then frowning when she noticed the light bulbs above were also shaped like glowing phalluses. How? She didn't know nor want to find out.

"Yes, there are QUITE a lot of them but I think it could be much worse."

At that moment, the door to Camilla's shag room is loudly knocked open, startling them both. The demoness emerges from the room with a displeased look and fists clenched.

"Ohh, me and my big mouth…", Mirabelle bemoaned.

"Is…everything ok, Camilla?", Ein carefully ask, drawing closer to her, "Was it good? Did it not…fit right or–"

"It was fine.", Camilla interjects, growling when she spoke.

"Oh! So are you feeling a little, you know, down there?"

"Jes.", Camilla utters through clenched teeth.

Ein glances back at Mirabelle confused, who shrugs, "So…what's the problem then?"

"Because it's a FUCKING PIECE OF PLASTIC!", Camilla shouted angrily, clenching the bridge of her nose, "I pleasured myself with a fake polla all while the REAL ONE is miles away doing Chaos knows what. How did I get here?! How?!"

"W-What do you mean? We took the trolley–"

"NO!", Camilla cuts her off the sighs in frustration, "How did I become this dependent on a human? I've hated them all for much of mi life. They've even hurt me with these things of theirs. Now…I can't stop thinking about one. I'm consumed by it. I want it. I LOVE it. I love HIM. Do ju understand how confusing it is to love someone so much yet they belong to a species ju hate?"

Mirabelle and Ein look at each other awkwardly, unsure how to respond but somewhat understood her pain

"Oh? Sounds like you found a truly exceptional mate then.", came Gwen's voice getting the others' attention.

"Ms. Gwen? Wait, weren't you still dealing with…her?", Mirabelle asks as Ein shift a curious gaze at her.

"My customer needed a break and I decided it would be best to check up on you. Although, it seems I've arrived at an opportune time.", Gwen replied looking to Camilla who scoffs at her.

"Why is it any of your business, punta?"

"If it's in my store, love, it IS my business. Whether it's matters of the hole or matters of the heart.", Gwen cheekily replies, "Now, you say you're dependent on a human despite hating them all your life, eh? I won't pretend to know you're entire life's history but I can tell you must love this man dearly"

" Jes and these toys of yours cannot POSSIBLY match his essence or his touch that has given me more pleasure and happiness in a MONTH than in my decades prior!", Camilla contested.

"Oh, it must be quite something then, huhu. Then what is the problem if he makes you happy?" Gwen asked curious

Camilla glances away in thought, "I'm becoming so weak without him. I've fought, defeated, and survived countless enemies. I was powerful, fearless and independent. Then I met Senor, mi destino, and it was like mi entire world changed. Now that he's not with me it is like it's all crumbling apart. I never thought being with a human…could make me this way."

"Camilla…", Mirabelle uttered softly with a worried expression.

"Hmm, a hopeless romantic I see. Not that I have room to talk.", Gwen smiles to herself thinking of her Darrell then looks at Camilla, "Be honest, love, do you wish you never met him at all? If not being with him hurts this much."

Her question shocks Mirabelle and Camilla, even Ein was perplexed by it.

"No… the very thought of never meeting mi Destino that night sends horrible pain through my entire being."

"Well, there ya go! You love a human, end of story."

"I-It is not that simple!", Camilla stated,"I KNOW I love him! I'm no fool. It's his species I can't stand."

"Interesting, so you realize that he is and always will be a part of that species. You're gonna have to accept that at some point."

"I know that! I just…I don't know, ok?!", Camilla stated in frustration, clenching her forehead, "Why…Why can't it just be easy?"

"You're head over hooves for a human, love. It's NEVER gonna be easy. We're oh so very different from them biologically, culturally, religiously, or superstitiously and any other way you can imagine. It doesn't really matter. It all works out between us as long as we have our love.", Gwen casually replies

"How?! It just…it just doesn't make sense…", Camilla says, looking downwards in confusion.

"And it never will, love. It just works!", Gwen happily stated as Ein and Mirabelle give her uncertain gazes, "Let me put it this way. Humans are sorta like junk food. It's technically bad for us. We KNOW it's bad for us. Most come with warning signs explaining WHY it's bad for us, but at the same time…I'd rather die than live in a world without Funyons.", Gwen says in a genuinely serious tone.

Camilla looks at her in thought, understanding what she meant before shifting a slightly ashamed gaze away.

Mirabelle and Ein look at her curiously. The latter of which ponders the Bicorn words deeply.

"Besides, love, not all humans are as wicked as the blokes you've met. Surely, there's a few besides your mate you like, yeah?", Gwen assuredly asks.

"W-Wait, how did you know that about Camilla?" Ein questioned.

"Let's just say I recognize that look anywhere, love."

Camilla ponders the question, remembering the semi-decent humans she's encountered but lingering on one in particular, "...Perhaps."

"Well, I call that progress!", Gwen remarks then remembering something important, "Oops, I should go check on my cheeky little customer. Back in a tic!", she stated before vanishing in a cloud of red and black smoke.

Unbeknownst to them, Cheryl, who had been hiding behind the corner near the various human to oni cock rings, having listened in on the conversation. She was quite shocked but at the same time understood the demoness on some level. She smiles to herself before rounding the corner.

"Hey girls! You have a chance to try out your boy toys?", Cheryl happily stated, getting Camilla and the other's attention before she quickly withdrew, "Wait, no, sorry that came out wrong. I mean is everything…good back here? I kinda heard some shouting."

"We're fine, Ms. Banks. There's no need to worry. I promise.", Ein assured.

"Oh…Ok, then. Camilla, did you try out the toy you picked? Is it…right for you?"

Camilla looks at her a moment the simply, "It was…passable. Only someone truly inexperienced would expect better. I at least do not feel as pent up as before."

"Well that's great! Guess that one's a winner! Grab whatever you need, we can check out whenever you're ready. I'll just be up in the front checking out some of these Pyrow perfumes and lubes."

Camilla shifts her gaze in thought, "Wait! May I…join ju?"

Mirabelle and Ein look at her in surprise at the question.

Cheryl looks at her equally surprised, "Really?"

"Jes, I…know that Pyrows specialize in arousement so one of those perfumes or lubes may help make using that toy easier. Besides, I would rather kill time with that than 'trying' more of these imitation cocks."

"Oh, I mean…sure. Let's check'em out!", Cheryl replies with an inviting smile as Camilla shifts her gaze away in slight embarrassment before a small grin appears.

As the human woman and demoness walk away, Mirabelle and Ein watch smiling in approval and amazement at their friend's progress.

"I'm back!", Gwen stated, reappearing in a flash black and red smoke, startling both girls into nearly jumping out their skin, "Mirabelle, love, could you perhaps help out my client?"

"What? Why me?!"

"Seems she is a wee bit cross with me at the moment. Won't even let me unfasten her bindings. Not my fault my spell for removing them is still in the workshop.", Gwen pouted, "Actually, she asked for your help specifically."

"I'm…having a hard time believing that.", Mirabelle responded.

"Ok, WHO, exactly needs help?", Ein questions.

"RELEASE ME FROM THESE BINDS HEATHENS!", shouted the slightly muffled voice of Aurelia coming from somewhere in store

"Who was that?!"

"A fellow centaur with a burnin' in her knickers that needed to be quenched.", Gwen cheekily answers, only adding to Ein's confusion.

"I have no idea what you just said but I feel like I should be glad I don't."

"RELEASE ME OR YOU'LL BE SORRY!"

Mirabelle sighs in exasperation, "Don't trouble yourself Ein, it's just an entitled twat with a gobby(big mouth). I'll see to her, Gwen."

"Cheers, love."

Mirabelle then teleports away as Ein reaches out to her but she vanished too quickly.

"Haa, guess I should… just go check on Lyca and Zwei then."

"Or, you could treat yourself too, Love. The rooms are here for a reason.", Gwen emphasized, summoning a dark green dildo floating in her palm.

Ein blushed heavily then turns away, "T-That's perfectly alright! I…don't need anything like that."

"Huhu, you say that now Love…~until the 'right' one comes along~.", Gwen cheekily smirks as Ein is visibly taken aback, "Best to at least get some practice in. Your virgin wall will be quite grateful later."

"Wha–H-How do even know?! I never even–", Ein stuttered, blushing madly before Gwen gets close to her face making direct eye contact.

"A woman knows, Love. I can even tell you have someone you want to be your first. For now, no need to hold back.", Gwen assured her, gingerly placing the sex toy in her hands.

"B-But I–"

"GWENDOLYYYYN!?", Messi cries, rushing over to the Bicorn, "Those weird humans are back again!"

"Oh bother, those tossers again? Excuse me, love, I must take care of this." Gwen sighed.

"Who are they?", Ein looks to Messi.

"Gluttony fang users."

"What?! Wait, allow me to deal with them! I am a MON agent after all.", Ein stated both wanting to protect them and welcoming the distraction.

"Appreciate that, Love, but it's nothin' too big for me. Us non-human business owners gotta protect our when you can't. Messi if you'd be a dear and help our guests."

"Y-Yes ma'am! What are you gonna do?"

"I'm just gonna ask'em to leave.", Gwen politely spoke, grinning calmly as she conjured a black and red Glock 17 to her hand, cocking it once.

"W-Why do you have a pistol?!", Ein stated in shock.

"I'm just gonna ask'em to leave.", Gwen calmly repeats before vanishing in a red and black smoke.

"Wait! We have to stop her–", Ein stated before Messi grabs her with her head tendrils.

"It's fine! They're mostly just blanks to intimidate them. Master Darrell thought it'd help since her accent isn't very threatening."

"Valid point but still WILDLY irresponsible!"

"Still, no need to worry, miss. You just go enjoy yourself.", Messi assured with a mischievous grin, pushing her into one of the shag rooms ignoring her protests. In the distance, Messi hears a couple muffled gunshots and smiles reassuringly to herself, "It's fiiiine."

….

While that was going on, Aurelia could be seen struggling to free herself from the restraints.

"Gah, come on you…fucking…RHA!", She exclaimed as she falls over on her side–her large breasts against her chin prompting an infuriated frown, "Cheíronas DAMOS pou diastrevloménos frikió tis fýsis(Chiron DAMN that perverted freak of natured!)"

Mirabelle teleports in right behind her, surprised to find her in a state. There was a large wet stain on the rear of her cloak making her blush as she couldn't suppress an amused giggle. This quickly catches the sharp ears of the blonde centaur.

"Who's there?! Show yourself!"

"It's me.", Mirabelle replies, already getting drained as

Aurelia sneers barely able to turn her head, "Tch, why are you here?"

"Aren't you the one who asked for me? Gwen told me so."

"I did not! I told that wench even a heathen like YOU could do better than her!"

"Ah. That makes more sense.", Mirabelle rolls her eyes.

"You know what, fuck it. While you're here, make yourself useful and untie me."

Mirabelle folds her arms defiantly, "Are you asking or telling me?"

Aurelia's eyes widen in disbelief, "I'm ordering you! You should be grateful that I haven't struck you down for your… for your hand in this!", she stated, blushing in embarrassment.

"I don't think it's in my best interest to help you. Not unless you remember your manners.", Mirabelle replies as Aurelia clenches her teeth, "So, are you asking or telling me?"

Aurelia thought for a moment then exclaimed in frustration, "Rhaa! Fine! I am ASKING for your help!"

"Asking for help, what?"

Aurelia mutters something under her breath then sighs, "Asking for your help…please.", she growls with clenched teeth.

"And you will not cause any more trouble for me or Gwen?"

"...I will not. On my honor as a knight."

"Splendid.", Mirabelle spoke with a satisfied smirk before placing a hand on the blonde centaur's side, focusing her mana she channels it through the restraints, converting Gwen's mana and absorbing it all into her own body while draining the restraints power. She then teleports Aurelia out leaving ropes on the floor.

Aurelia, being freed, gets up and stretches her body and massages her arms, "Haa, that's much better. To think someone like me could be caught off guard so easily."

"It happens to the best of us or in your case the inverse is true."

Aurelia scoffs at her snide comment, "As if I'd care about your opinion, heathen! You and that Bicorn filth are lucky I don't report you to ICEP!"

"Well, then you'd have to explain why you were here…in full detail.", Mirabelle replies as Aurelia blushes, taken aback by her brazen statement.

"THE NERVE OF…fine. Fine. Then I guess we're at an impasse."

"Indeed."

"Tch, I'll be taking my leave from this wretched place.", Aurelia scoffs, fixing her clothes and hair before walking past Mirabelle.

"How could you even think of doing that to him?", Mirabelle questioned, stopping Aurelia in her tracks as they stood with their backs to each other, "Even if it's your heat cycle…that is just cruel."

Aurelia's expression turns somber a moment before clenching her fists, "It's none of your business. You can't understand what it's like to pledge yourself to a master…who cannot see you as a partner."

"Then get a new host…master or whatever you want to call it and leave him be. If you're not happy with him, then find someone else!", Mirabelle contests.

"It's not that simple, heathen! I pledged my loyalty under the doctrine of the Great Chiron and it cannot be broken! The honor of my bloodline is everything!"

"Is that why you're here then? For your precious honor?"

Aurelia pauses a moment then responds, "What about you then? Why are you here and not with that so-called master? Or are you just browsing instruments for your degenerate activities together?"

Mirabelle glances away and takes a deep breath, "That's none of your concern. But yes and it's to help some friends of mine."

"Hmm…how typical.", Aurelia coldly remarks with a hint of jealousy before walking out of the room.

Mirabelle sighs to herself, looking up at the portrait of Gwen and her partner, thinking of Caleb.

…

Further away, Aurelia could be seen walking towards the exit trying to push Mirabelle's words from her mind. Yet, at the same time, unable to feel her own guilt and shame. She noticed a human woman chuckling near the fragrance section with a familiar tall devil woman beside her.

Said devil woman quickly takes notice of her, giving a surprised and displeased look as she clops by.

"Hm? Camilla what's up?", Cheryl asks before noticing the centaur woman hastily clopping by.

Suddenly, Gwen reappears in front of the doorway, surprising Aurelia, wiping sweat from her forehead.

"Haaa, takes care of them, I reckon. Like my beloved says, 'everyone gangsta until a centaur pulls a strap on ya'. Ohh, what colorful language he has.", Gwen swoons before noticing Aurelia, "Oops, sorry love didn't see ya there. Are ya leaving?"

"Yes. Now kindly step out of my way.", Aurelia plainly requests putting on an air of nobility.

"Of course, love.", Gwen complied, stepping around her then stops, "I trust you're feeling a lot better."

Aurelia pauses with her hand at the door for a moment, "...I am…um, thanks. I suppose…"

"Anytime! Feel free to come back if you need help again!"

Aurelia flushes in embarrassment, "...W-Whatever!"

The centauress rushes out leaving Camilla and Cheryl confused before Mirabelle comes walking in from the back.

"Senora? What was SHE doing here?", Camilla inquires, displeased.

"Long story? What matters is she's out of our hair."

"Wait, I'm confused. Who was that? From the sound of it, I'm guessing she's not a friend?", Cheryl inquires.

"That's putting it mildly but yes."

"Oh I don't know, she just needs some loosening up is all.", Gwen chimes in, "You should've heard her moans of joy from gettin' her phany pounded with my PCT.", She says making sexual gesture with her hands as Mirabelle blushes madly while Cheryl and Camilla recoil in surprise.

"I've never had so many questions and didn't want answers to ANY of them.", Cheryl remarks.

"You'll get used to it.", Camilla replies.

….

While that was going on, Ein was inside of the shag room, attaching the dildo the male mannequin with her black skintight shorts beside it. She stood over the mannequin, her robe lifted revealing her bare pussy and shapely plump thighs. She was nervous and unsure if she should continue yet something urged her forward. Curiosity? Arousal? Peer pressure? Maybe all three? Somehow it didn't matter much.

'This is crazy. Why am I doing this?', Ein thought to herself, her hand covering her womanhood, straddling the mannequin, lining herself up with the fake member, 'Ok. Ok. Keep it together. Just…see how it feels at least…then…'

Ein lowers herself even more, shuddering upon feeling the smooth, rounded tip against her lower lips. She gulps, takes a deep breath, and lowers herself more feeling it spreading her lips apart. Ein softly groans, feeling the hard, sturdy object spreading her insides apart.

'It's…so big…', she thought mouth hangs open, burying it nearly to the hilt where she felt most comfortable. She could feel her walls forming around it as it sent little sparks of pleasure with every move she made, 'I…I did it. It feels…pretty nice. I should pull it out now…'

As she tells herself that, she looks down at the lifeless mannequin's face reminded of her experience with Caleb in Zwei's room. Her eyes widen staring down at the human's face remembering his thing poking her entrance wondering if this is how it would felt inside her…or would it be a lot better?

The thought alone shocked the young karmaitachi. She knew it was wrong for many reasons to think of him that way. However, the more she moved her hips, feeling every electric pulse of pleasure through her nerves, she could help herself.

He was always kind to them, cooked with and for them, encouraged them, listen to them, respected them, protected them, and cared about them more than many other humans she's known more than their own species excluding their parents. It was that genuine, beautiful spirit of his that is why she truly remains with him. These thoughts and more made her increase her intensity, undulating and bouncing on the hard member mouth agape, heavily panting.

'Stop…you need to stop! This is wrong! This is so wrong!', Ein screams at herself, bouncing her hips as her love juices pool on the mannequin waist, her mind picturing Caleb's smiling face. Her ample breasts flopping about with her hardened nipples poking through her fabrics as she rode the artificial member, moaning intensely, 'I know it's wrong…but…but…I WANT it!'

Ein felt a pressure building up inside as she increased her pace. Under her breath, she kept softly calling his name imagining him holding her tightly, firm fingers digging into her flesh.

"SIR…SIIIRRR!", Ein loudly moaned, throwing her head back as her juice covered the tool beneath her and soaking the mannequin's waist. As she catches her breath, coming down from her euphoric high, she looks down at the mess beneath her. Her eyes widen, cheeks flushing in shame and embarrassment at her love juices covering her pretend mate, "W-What…what did I just do?"

…Elsewhere…

High above the skies, Ash could be seen soaring miles above the city skyline as her wing blazes like a wildfire leaving an ember trail with every flap.

Her breathing was heavy as her body wouldn't stop shaking and her mind was racing. She tried her best to calm herself but found it so difficult.

She was free now. She escaped that terrible place and it's…terrible people.

Yet, she didn't find any relief from this newfound freedom as she had no destination or plan in the slightest. She still knew nothing about who she was, where she came or even if there was anything to return to. She knew she must've had family, evident by her sister, but even the details on that were hazy. Where was she supposed to go? What was she supposed to do?

Ash clenches her teeth at the thought, tears rolling down her cheeks before evaporating into steam.

Suddenly, she pulled from her thoughts as her entire being senses danger approaching. She's immediately proven right when a stream of black fire is shot at her which she instinctively dodges.

"By the tits of the Fallen God, what do we have here?", Spoke a mischievous yet sinister dark winged figure appearing from a visage of thick black smoke, eyes glowing a menacing red. They appeared to be a short black Malef dragon woman with a hauntingly demonic appearance, smiling wickedly at Ash, "Didn't expect to run into something like you on my morning flight. You've got some nerve to encroach upon my territory, harpy."

Ash was visibly taken aback, sensing trouble from her, "Stay away! Just let me go!"

"Oh? You think you can tell me what to do?! Insolent fowl! How DARE you try and command the GREAT LALO.?!", Lalo growled, her body radiating a menacing black aura, brandishing her large, sharp claws. She charges Ash with great speed attempting to slash her but the Phoenix just barely managed to dodge, getting a large cut across her stomach that quickly heals.

"LEAVE ME ALONE!", Ash shouted, every feather radiating orange flames, much to Lalo surprise, before instinctively flapping her wings to send a wave of fire to strike her foe.

Lalo smirks, extending her scaly palm to stop the attack effortlessly, canceling it out. She examines her scorched palm in fascination.

"As I live and breathe, a Phoenix? Never thought I'd get the chance to meet one of your kind this century. How auspicious. Still gonna kill ya though. But hey, you'll just be reborn again right? What's one more death?", Lalo sadistically spoke, a wide malevolent grin on her face.

Ash wears a horrified expression, flapping her wings to put some distance between them, "No…Stay away. Stay away!"

As the Phoenix takes off trying to escape, Lalo smirks before flying after her and catching up within seconds.

"What's wrong?! SCARED OF DYING TWICE?!", Lalo exclaimed, spiking her in the center of her back, nearly bending Ash's spine and knocking the air from her lungs.

She lost feeling in her legs for a moment as she plummets downwards before feeling in them return. Before she could react, however, Lalo appears below and knees her hard in the stomach. Ash gags loudly, lurching forward before getting kicked upwards as Lalo vanished with great speed.

She reappears next to the phoenix in a flash then backhand slaps her hard into tailspin before blasting her with a concentrated black fire blast sending her reeling and crying in pain. Lalo appears below her, grabs her bird-like leg then karate chopping it hard enough to snap her joint like a twig.

"AAAAHHH!", Ash cries out in agony much to Lalo's amusement.

"I wonder if I rip you in two will you grow another pair of legs? Welp, one way to find out!", Lalo expressed before twirling Ash by her damaged leg like a ragdoll then tossing her upwards. The Malef Dragon proceeds to repeatedly kick her upwards like juggling a soccer ball, breaking bones and rupturing blood vessels. She then grabs the horribly mangled, bruised, and bloodied pheonix by the neck, observing how quickly her wounds started healing in amusement, "You know what? I think I'll make you my own personal punching bag! One that won't break no matter what! At least physically. Mentally? I wonder how long you'll last. Thirty years? Months maybe? Huhu, this'll be fun."

Ash weakly looks at her, blood spilling from her mouth then spits it right into the dragon woman's face, shocking her, "Just…kill me…bitch…"

Lalo looks at the pheonix, seething with indescribable anger as grabs her by the neck. Be humiliated in such a manner was a bit too much for the dragoness.

"Don't…tell me…WHAT TO DOOOO!" she roars, having a tantrum, as she throws her away hard enough to turn into a high velocity projectile. She pants with little black embers and smoke escaping her lip before calming down enough to realize her mistake, "Fuck. Now I gotta go get her."

Ash plummets towards the ground and an uncontrollable rate, trying her best to slow her descent using her still broken wings that were repairing themselves as fast her body could but not enough to avoid solid concrete. She noticed a body of rapidly flowing water in a nearby channel and unfurled her wings enough to change her trajectory. She landed into the water with a heavy crash and was quickly swept away as she struggled to keep her head above.

High above, Lalo observed with both annoyance and disappointment.

"Shit, I lost my new toy! This always happens when I get too worked up.", She sighed, counting her losses, as she moved on with her flight, "Oh , think I'll go bully some of those rodent slaves. They better have a new batch of drugs done or I'm flaying Jerry again."

As the Malef Dragon flew away, chuckling heartily, much further downstream, Ash could be seen crawling onto the bank just underneath a bridge coughing up water. Her entire body and wings soaking wet looking as if she were draped in a large wet blanket. She collapsed in the grass not having the strength or willpower right now to move.

….Back to Gwen's Shop…

"Ok so that's two human sized dildos, a remote anal vibrator, two sets of anal beads, two pairs of vibrating panties, three bottles of oral sex gel, two bottles of tightening cream, two anal trainers and a vibrating leather whip. Will that be all, Love?", Gwen politely asks, ringing up all of Zwei's stuff at checkout.

"Hmm, it feels like I'm missing something?", Zwei asks herself, touching her chin.

"Oh! Don't forget these!", Lyca stated, place an armful of twelve phallic shaped lollipops on the counter, "I got all twelve flavors!", she happily stated as Zwei smiled at her.

"Excellent choice, love!", Gwen stated quickly ringing up all twelve, "Alright, that's 146.80."

"Holy crap! Is that with or without an ICEP student discount?"

"My store's a proprietorship so that doesn't apply here. However, can set ya up with my store's membership to get ya 10% off yer purchase starting today. I just need ya contacts, love."

"Awesome. Are you gonna spam fuck my cell with texts about the hottest deals on your inventory?"

"Oh incessantly and with no lube.", Gwen honestly and saucily replied

"Perfect!" Zwei stated, proceeding to give her cell number.

"Well, I see you've gotten yourself plenty of entertainment, Zwei.", Mirabelle remarks, carrying a couple of large books along with three bottles of lavender sensitivity oil.

"Really? Kinda feels like grocery shopping.", Zwei remarks, noticing the books in her arms with an image of centoress in dominatrix attire as Gwen levitated her stuff into large black bags, "What that you got there? Looks entertaining."

"Oh! You've taken an interest in my species' mating practices I see. Did the treatment session earlier inspire something in ya?", Gwen cheekily questions.

Mirabelle blushes with an awkward smirk, "Hehe…Y-You could say that."

"Hm, in that case…", Gwen smirks widen before snapping her fingers, making a black and pink box appear with the artwork depicting a centaur woman in BDSM attire, ",Why don't you and your hubby try this on the house?"

"Oh! I-I couldn't possibly–"

"Nonsense! Consider it payment for helping out with that ornery mate of yours."

"We're not mates! She's a cantankerous slag and a right pain in the arse.", Mirabelle bitterly spoke before accepting the gift, "I'll take it but ONLY because it's from you. Though, I could do without that contraption of yours."

"Eh, each their own, Love. Totally optional if you just want yer to darling to take the reins while stuffin' yer phany. Besides, the way the two'a'us stuffed her, she won't be feeling her arse a while.", Gwen cheekily remarks prompting a fit of laughter between the two centauress.

Zwei and Lyca, black bags in hands, look at them confused and slightly concerned by what exactly transpired between them.

"What is so funny?", Camilla asks, walking into the room, catching the attention followed by an immediate mix of shock and amazement upon seeing the Elder Devil in a full dominatrix getup.

She wore black knee-high leather heels with matching shoulder length fingerless gloves–both ending with little leather devil horns—a red V-cut bodysuit with black belts around her torso and corset to accentuate her ample chest, and black thong that gave her plump latina butt and thighs extra shape. She wore a silver and red ribbon on her tail and two more tied in bows on her horns.

"Oooh! Aren't you just a tall hunk of devil's food cake? Can I have a bite?", Gwen cheekily teased by making chomping motions with hands at Camilla's rear.

"Do it and I'll make sure ju can't chew for a month."

"Hmmm, I say it's almost worth it. Almost."

"Uhh, Cam…watcha wearin'? And where's Cheryl?", Zwei curiously asks.

"Right here!", Cheryl called strutting out wearing, to everyone's surprise, a red latex bodysuit that formed around her slender but shapely body perfectly with a zipper opening for her perky B-cups. She wore red high heels, black masquerade mask with white visors, and carried a black riding crop, "Who wants to spend time with Mama Banks?", she emphasized, flexing the riding crop as Camilla raises an eyebrow looking her up and down.

"Time where? A mental hospital?", Zwei remarks.

"Cheryl kinda looks like the red hotdogs Chief used to buy!"

"Damn, not even the name brand?", Cheryl replies, shoulders slumping a little.

"What are you both even up to?", Mirabelle curiously asks.

"Oh! We were looking at some of the clothes when we stumbled on the Pyrows SM section…so I said 'hey let's try some' and Camilla was like 'Sure, why not?'"

"She skimmed a few details but that is the gist of it. Besides, I cannot say I object to the result. These clothes feel strangely…empowering.", Camilla remarks, sensually tracing her hands along her curves.

"You're telling me. Plus, I read the tag says the material is fire retardant and slip resistant. Sexy AND functional."

"So you could be burned at the stake and still be sexy?", Zwei cheekily questions.

"A sexy witch trial? Ha! There's a role scenario!", Cheryl emphatically stated as Mirabelle makes a mental note.

"I think that's just her way of saying you're both drop dead gorgeous, love. I'm sure your lucky chaps will enjoy it."

"Hehe, well, hers maybe, I'm just getting this as 'Persona 5' cosplay material. Think I could pull off a good enough Anne.", Cheryl nonchalantly replies.

"Well, when you're done cosplaying love, I'm certain your 'future chap' will enjoy it too. A beautiful lass like you can easily pull a few. I just know it.", Gwen encouraged with a supportive grin.

Cheryl pauses a moment in thought then returns the smile, "Oh…thank you."

"If you want, I can wait to charge you both until you get changed."

"No need.", Camilla spoke, conjuring a small pink seal then snapping her finger. Both her and Cheryl's bodies glow with pink energy changing in a flash back to their original clothes much to the other's surprise while Cheryl gushes in amazement. She then holds up the dominatrix clothes back in its hanger and plastic, "I am ready to buy now."

"Whoa-hahaha, it's just like the 'accio spell' from Harry—"

"DON'T. Start.", Camilla cuts her off, not wanting to hear her spells compared to such drivel.

Cheryl smiles awkwardly, forcing a chuckle, "Hehe, right sorry."

As they were all chatting, Ein quietly emerged from the other room trying to go unnoticed as she hid the freshly cleaned dildo in hand. A look of shame plastered on her face, thinking of what she just did.

"Hey, there ya are sis!", Zwei stated, startling her older sister, "Where ya been hiding?"

"Oh! I-I um—"

"Shag rooms are all clean, Mistress!", Messi interjects, appearing from behind Ein startling her again. She then smiles at Ein, "Very much appreciate you cleaning up so well after yourself, miss. You wouldn't believe the stuff SOME clients leave behind."

As the slime girl spoke, Ein's jaw drops absolutely mortified while the others looked at her with mischievous or intrigued expressions.

"Oh, Ms. Ein…", Mirabelle cheeks flush in surprise as Camilla folds her arms with an amused smirk.

"Well well welly well well, sis, didn't think you had it in you…oh wait, YOU PROBABLY DID HAHAHA!", Zwei heartily chuckles followed by Lyca as Ein blushes red in annoyance.

"That's great, Ein! What did you pick? Come on, don't be shy.", Cheryl encouraged, only adding to Ein's embarrassment while Gwen hands her two black bags with hers and Camilla outfits, respectively.

"Don't encourage me! Haa, here…", Ein reluctantly shows the human-type dildo she was hiding prompting a fit of laughter from Zwei, "Shut up!"

"Ooh, a classic huh? Not gonna lie, it suits you.", Cheryl remarks.

"I thought the same! Did it fit ya well, love? Like a glove right?", Gwen genuinely inquires, prompting another hysterical fit from Zwei who falls on the floor holding her stomach as Lyca joins her believing she's having fun.

"Can you just check me out already?!", Ein demanded in serious tone for it to be undercut by the erect silicon member wobbling on the counter as his sister laughed harder with Mirabelle softly chuckling now too.

"Pay them no mind, Love. You do what's right for you.", Gwen encouraged, bagging up her new toy.

"I don't know what's right anymore…", Ein mutters under her breathe, before reluctantly stopping the Bicorn, "Wait! Um…"

Ein embarrassedly whispers something in Gwen's ear making her grin mischievously as the weasel hung her head ashamed before Gwen lifts her chin up.

"Whatever you want, love.", Gwen assured, snapping her fingers as Ein Ein's bag glows red momentarily before handing it off.

Ein peaks into the bag with a worried yet somewhat delighted expression.

"I see ju have finally given in, mojigata(prude). ", Camilla mischievously whispers behind her ear with a devilish smirk, spooking the weasel woman into hugging the bag closely.

"I-I don't know what you're talking about!", Ein rebuts, turning away blushing in embarrassment as Camilla snickers.

"Well, it seems everyone has what they need, and more. What's next on today's agenda?", Mirabelle inquires, getting Cheryl and the others attention.

"I don't know. I originally planned for us to go to the Lane Plaza. Maybe check out that Arachne clothing store I been hearing about called 'Weaves Tale'.

"WEAVES TALE?!", Gwen happily exclaims, "If you're droppin' by there, be sure to give Mabeline and her brood my regards!"

"Wait, you know the owner?"

"Course, we're right good mates, we are! Been so since we met at Interspecies Affairs liminal business licensing."

"Wow, so you guys are really close friends?", Lyca asks with a smile.

"You said her 'brood'. Do you mean those other smaller Arachne workers?", Mirabelle curiously inquires.

"Oh! So you've already met! No, Love, those are her children.", Gwen casually replies much to Mirabelle and the others surprise.

"Seriously?! Well, actually, now that I think about it does kinda add up. They do all look like her.", Zwei spoke in a matter-of-fact tone.

"Is that even allowed by ICEP?", Cheryl chimes in.

"They were all born before this whole dodgy cultural exchange was commonplace. She and her human husband are part of the 'private special cases' so those ICEP blokes likes to call them."

"Yeah, I've always wondered about how exactly that works for human-liminal couples formed before the program started in this country. I can only imagine how complicated that gets.", Cheryl pondered out loud.

"For who?", Camilla raises an eyebrow.

"Uh, literally everyone, especially the kids they had."

"Believe me, Love, it was not easy for her. Very few, including her coordinator know of this. The only reason I know is because my beloved and hers work in the same automotive facility. Actually how my beloved and I met so…I owe her that. "

"And I suppose what ICEP doesn't know won't hurt. Don't worry, her secrets are safe with us.", Mirabelle casually replies.

"Right-o Love!"

'It is disturbing how often my sense of legality is questioned.', Ein thought to herself with a humdrum expression.

"Ok, so are we gonna take the trolley there? I haven't been to this part of town so don't really know their schedule.", Cheryl points out.

"No need. I've been there once already so I can have us all there in a tic. Plus, I've got a surplus of mana to expend anyway.", Mirabelle happily informs.

"Wait, seriously?!"

"What? You thought she could only teleport around the house? Half the time she's just hauntingly quiet enough that it FEELS she appears outta nowhere.", Zwei chimes in.

"...Fair enough."

"Right, so everyone bunch up!", Mirabelle advised as the others surround her, placing a hand on her horse body.

Cheryl excitedly shimmies placing a hand on her back, "Ooh, this is exciting! Wait, do I have to pose?"

"No.", Camilla firmly spoke.

"If you wanna.", Zwei shrugged.

"No!", Camilla and Ein rebuff in unison.

"Thank you for everything, Gwen."

"Cheers, love. You slags drop by anytime. I'll have a some new toys to try out.", Gwen happily waves before making a lewd motion with her hands, unnerving Ein a bit.

"We'll…keep that in mind."

Mirabelle closes her eyes to concentrate, her body radiating a purple aura that quickly spreads over the others. In a violet flash, they are all teleported out of Gwen's store.

"They were a lovely bunch.", Messi sweetly spoke.

"Yeah."

"You think Master Darrell would mind if we—"

"I've considered it.", Gwen interjects then smirks lasciviously, "So we'll see, love, huhuhu."

…Later that evening(Warning: Scene contains Self-Harm)…

Somewhere in the city, down a dark alleyway reeking of garbage from nearby dumpster. The sounds of the lively city filling the stagnant atmosphere. It was here in this lowly area that Ash could be seen stumbling about aimlessly, mentally and spiritually exhausted. She'd abandoned any thoughts of flying for fear of being noticed by ICEP or attacked again by that monster. She merely kept walking, not knowing where to go or what to do. Her entire being felt hollow, a walking corpse, as her wings faded of any color.

While stumbling, she trips over something hard followed by hearing startled raspy cry as she lands on her face. Turning her head, she sees a human in dirty, worn clothes, shaggy unkempt hair and beard, and reeking of a combination of alcohol and dead rats.

"You got a problem or something ya Big Bird lookin' bastard! HUH?!", He berated her viciously which doesn't even respond to sitting on all fours, "Hey! I'm talkin' to you! I'LL deep fry your big ass they gone call me the colonel Sanders chicken goddammit! Get your ass up!", the hostile homeless man ranted, grabbling an empty beer bottle and tossing it at her.

It smashes into Ash's head, the shards digging into her skull sending stinging pain throughout her skull, blood trickling down her face.

"HEY! CAN'T YOU HEAR M–"

The homeless man is caught off guard upon noticing the bird woman's malicious almost demonic fiery eyes and bloody face as a visage of a huge flaming bird with red eyes appearing to burn his very soul causing him intense pain. The man cries out in agony, feeling as if he was engulfed in flames before falling over unconscious.

Ash's smiles sadly giggling maniacally and holding her head, feeling her mind tearing itself apart.

Eventually, Ash stops when she notices the nozzle end of the glass beer bottle the man struck her with. She grabs it, running her wing along the sharp, jagged ends.

She turns it around and angles for the right spot on her neck. She takes a few breaths, closing her eyes bemoaning all she has lost; her body, mind, family, even her memories. She swiftly stabs the broken bottle into her neck, feeling the rigid shards tearing through her viscera as blood spills beneath her.

She felt sharp but brief pain for moment as she waited for everything to fade away. However, she doesn't feel anything. More than that the pain in her neck and head completely fade away as her body heals. Ash is left stunned, confused and frustrated at still being alive. She grabs the broken bottle again and repeatedly stabs herself in a fervent attempt to end her suffering only for her wounds to heal as fast as she made them.

"RHAAAAAAAAAA!", Ash releases a heart-wrenching cry to the night sky, tears streaming down her face.

…Elsewhere…

After enjoying the rest of their day in Lane Plaza, the group eventually returned home and enjoyed a hearty dinner before bidding Cheryl a good evening. The Zyklon sisters did their usual perimeter sweep before turning in for the night.

Unbeknownst to them, something was transpiring next door inside of Caleb's bedroom. Camilla and Lyca sat on his bed as Mirabelle was kneeling in the center with the door closed behind her. She came to them earlier before dinner asking to meet in his room, refusing to elaborate on the reason.

"Senora, is everything ok?", Camilla questions in concern at the centauress's uneasy demeanor.

"Did something happen? Did you eat something bad?", Lyca questions becoming concerned.

Mirabelle takes a deep breathe steadying her nerves then blurting out, "I'm so sorry you two!"

Lyca and Camilla look at each other confused by her behavior.

"Ahem, apologies let me try that again.", Mirabelle started again, "I know it's been…difficult since Dear had to leave us to perform his service and I'm sorry we sprung that trip on you so suddenly."

"If that is what this is about, it is no trouble, senora. Honestly, it was more entertaining than I expected."

"Yeah, I never knew those kinda toys existed and the candy was yummy! I really liked that store!"

Mirabelle looks between them both with small grin then frowns in shame, "Thank you but…that's not what I meant. The only reason we had to go there was because of how we are used to tasting Dear's essence."

"It's ok, Mira, we all miss him; not just in that way either. But it's not like we aren't all feeling the same."

"That's…where you're wrong.", Mirabelle shamefully admitted, catching both girls' attention, "My species has the ability to full manifest our biological attributes in the dreamscape so long as we put enough energy into our astral bodies. When I go into Dear's dreams I can experience everything as if he were doing it to my physical body, including, well, pouring his essence into me.", she explains as Camilla folds her arms in thought while Lyca tilts her head trying to understand.

"Hm, that explains why ju appear the least irritable out of us. You've been receiving his essence this whole time even far away.", Camilla remarks, appearing annoyed as Lyca looks to her finally understanding then at Mirabelle in disbelief.

"Yes, I have, and you both have every right to be cross with me. I'm deeply ashamed of my dishonesty with you both. That's why…I've been working on a way for us all to see him…together."

Camilla and Lyca look at her with curiosity.

"Ju mean…enter the dreamscape with ju and Senor?"

"Yes! In those forms, you'll both be able to speak with, experience, and receive everything from him and more. Consider it my atonement for lying.", Mirabelle adently spoke as the devil and she-wolf's imagination ran wild blushing in excitement.

"Hmm, atonement accepted, senora. So long as ju do not look into my head too deeply.", Camilla teased.

"I would never!"

"And no more lying! Ever. Otherwise, you get no hugs or cuddles…for one month.", Lyca warns cryptically as Mirabelle gasps.

"Oh my, I absolutely won't then!"

"Good! I forgive you too!", Lyca beams a smile.

Mirabelle returns the gesture before thinking for a moment and sighing, "Actually, there is one other reason for this."

Camilla raises a curious eyebrow, "What is it?"

"Well, it seems recently Dear has…been in contact with another female during his stay. And it's possible…he may ask her to join our group."

Lyca and Camilla eyes widen in surprise upon hearing that, hardly believing it. Was he seriously going to add a new female?

"Also, from what I've seen…she's a hellhound…named Kaiya Cerberjack.", Mirabelle finishes, seeing their genuinely shocked reactions—Lyca in particular looked flabbergasted, her mind racing as she subconsciously touched the scar on her side. Camilla's was a bit tougher to read with her arms folded and eyes closed in thought.

'Oh, Caleb, I hope you fall asleep. I REALLY need your help explaining.', Mirabelle thought with a sigh, realizing this wasn't gonna be a pleasant conversation.

…Next Door…

While that was going on, over at the Zyklon's house.

"Haa…haaa…Hěn dà(so big)...Hěn dà…", Ein panted, lightly sweating while on her back pleasuring herself with the dildo she bought. As she churned her love tunnel with the artificial cock, she imagined Caleb pressing against her and pounding her relentlessly.

The dildo was dark brown in color, as per her secret request to Gwen, in order to make the experience at least semi-authentic. Her free hand groping and squeezing her breasts, pinching her erect nipple to send jolts of pleasure throughout her body. She forced it deeper as her inner wall clap around it causing her entire body to tense up, arching her back slightly as she came all over the sheets.

Ein, catching her breath while her body spasmed as the last spurt of pleasure, looks up at the dark ceiling with a mix of regret and shame…but also longing.

'I see you have finally given in…'

The Elder devils words repeat in Ein's mind as she groans softly, hardly believing what was happening. Was she really starting to see him as more than…?

"Haaa, goddammit…what is wrong with me?", She bemoaned, turning on her side, covering her head with pillow.

…Meanwhile…

Andrew Junior could be seen driving down the city street towards his house that evening having spent the day taking care of 'grown folks business' as he likes to call it and meeting up with his church buddies to play dominoes. He chuckles to himself thinking of Leroy's angry tantrum earlier while listening to Kirk Franklin on the radio.

As he makes a right at the green light towards his neighborhood, completely at ease vibing to the music, his headlight suddenly shines upon a humanoid figure in the road.

"OH SHI—", Andrew shouted, stomping on the brakes, his tires loudly screeching as the figure stood stunned like a deer in headlight. His vehicle comes to a complete stop, just barely avoiding hitting her as they stood seemingly paralyzed in shock. Andrew gets out from the driver's side door shouting, "Jesus! You trying to get yourself killed?! What are you—"

He stops upon seeing the person, immediately realizing they weren't human. Evident by their bird wings for arms and avian talons for feet. Yet what truly caught his attention was her bloodied clothes and filthy feathers smelling of cheap alcohol. Her eyes were cold and lifeless as she carried herself with a sluggish gate and abysmal posture, like a walking corpse. Even more alarming, she wasn't screaming, cursing, threatening him or showing any reaction to nearly getting run over. His better instincts knew better, after taking a deep breath to calm down, he then asks, "Hey are you ok, miss?"

She slowly turns her head towards the human man, her mouth opening but no words able to come. Suddenly, her legs give out as she falls to the side.

"Hey, hey hey! Whoa now!", Andrew stated, catching the now unconscious bird woman in his arms. He noticed she was surprisingly lighter than her appearance would suggest.

He looks down at the exhausted young woman, noticing her quivering fearfully, reminding him of his daughter whenever she was scared. The older man sighs to himself, knowing he couldn't leave her like this.

…Later that same evening…

Images of that awful day along with that awful feeling of betrayal bombard her mind, ricocheting like bullets through her mind. The pain of having her wings forcefully plucked and legs stripped of their scales and talons. Following it, was the images of a colossal flaming bird with piercing red eyes letting out an earth-shattering screech send a torrent of flames towards a harpy with black feather screaming in fear as she's engulfed.

"Ahh!", Ash jolts awake, hyperventilating and clenching her chest slowly calming herself down. She then notices, to her confusion and surprise, she was lying down on a couch in a large contemporary style living room.

"You're awake."

Ash nearly jumps out of her skin whipping her head around to see an elderly human man carrying a cup of coffee with milk and sugar. She focuses her sharp eyes on him, unsure of his motives.

"I made you some coffee to get your nerves settled.", he spoke, placing the cup on the table in front of her.

Ash stares at the cup then with a distrusting gaze before plainly asking, "Where am I? Who are you?"

"My name is Andrew Bizzell Jr. and, well, you're in my home. You passed out in the street so I brought you here to rest."

Ash examines his words, stares at him judging, something inside her told her there wasn't any falsehood in his words, "What do you want with me?"

"I…don't know what you mean. I brought you here because you seemed like you were in trouble. Did someone hurt you?"

"...Yes."

"Who was it?"

Ash scowls memories of her experience up to today replaying in her head, "...Everyone."

Andrew looks at her a bit confused but concerned, "Alright…I can tell you've been through a lot. Give me a minute, I can probably get you some help tonight from ICEP. I know I had their number somewh—"

"NO!", Ash shouted, startling the man, before getting a splitting heading headache. She groans sitting back down holding her skull, "Not them. Not them. Not them…"

Andrew grows more concerned by the minute but chose to prioritize her, "Ok, won't get ICEP(yet), just relax now, ok? Have a drink, sweety."

Ash side eyes him then looks to warm creamy brown liquid in front of her, carefully picking it up watching his reaction closely. She sniffed it, not detecting any strange scents before taking a small sip. Her eyes widened in surprise upon tasting the sweet kinda cinnamony creamy caffeine blend before drinking some more. It was the first thing she was genuinely able to taste in weeks. The liquid warmed her down to her core, relaxing every muscle and calming her thoughts.

"Good, right?"

Ash pauses with the cup to her mouth then nods.

"l used cinnamon to give it that extra kick. My wife used to make it like that whenever my daughter was stressed. Hers was always better though, I'm just a copycat.", Andrew joked with a small grin.

Ash was caught off guard by his oddly genuine and hospitable demeanor.

At the same time, Andrew helps but take notice of her unusual appearance. Sure, he'd seen harpies before but not like her; especially the pale autumn-colored feathers.

"Alright, feeling a little better?"

Ash sheepishly looks down at her coffee, "...Yes."

"Ok, can you tell me your name?"

"...They…everyone calls me 'Ash'."

"Is that your name?", Andrew patiently asks, noticing her frustrated tone.

Ash pauses, looking down at her cup, tears welling up in her eyes then running down her cheeks as a sob escapes her trembling lips.

"I don't know!", She bemoaned, sobbing into her coffee, letting out her grief.

Andrew frowns then goes over to try to comfort the hurt girl. He gingerly pats her back then pulls her close to his shoulder with no objection. She then buried her face against him wailing louder, somewhat breaking the old man's heart.

He didn't know or understand what she's been through to bring her to tears like this but he knew he wasn't going to leave her.

He also knew it was definitely gonna be a long night. Good thing he didn't take his amlodipine.

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…'My mind' by Produced by Melv plays in the background…

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.

*Knock knock knock*

A knocking could be heard at the front door as the morning rays crept through the curtains of Andrew's home.

"Huh?", Andrew was startled awake by the noise, seeing he was on the couch with Ash peacefully snoozing, still clingy closely to him.

The knocking continues as Andrew raises up, gently laying Ash down gently putting a pillow under her head careful not to wake her. Lord knows she needed to rest.

"Yeah yeah, I'm comin'", Andrew spoke, going to the door and opening it, rubbing his eyes at the blinding morning light. Standing before him was a man in black ICEP attire. Strange, he didn't remember calling them, "Can I help you?"

"Good morning. I presume I'm speaking with Andrew Bizzell?"

"That depends on who's asking, young man.", Andrew skeptically replied, already sensing something off.

"I suppose that's fair. Agent Sterling with ICEP, sir.", Sterling says, showing his badge to him.

"Alright, what is it?"

"Not exactly a matter of what but who.", Sterling replies, peaking behind the man, noticing a figure stirring on the couch nearby, "Can we maybe outside? I see you have a guest over and I'd hate to disturb them."

Andrew glances behind himself a moment then back to the agent, "Alright, let's make it quick."

"Understood."

The two men walk out to the porch, gingerly closing the door behind so as to not awaken the sleeping pheonix.

'Haa, what is with this family and rare species?', Sterling thought, switching off the tracking device in his pocket.