《Eden Garter, Dragon Anomaly》 Target [Act 1 Begin] ~Katrina~ The odd hybrid, known only as Katrina, approached her fellow compatriot, her stag beetle-shaped two feet clacking against the gray tiles of the floor, the lights reflecting against her florescent red, carapace like skin as she approached him. The white-cloaked figure approached her, a smile on his pure-white, perfectly-formed face, his blue eyes sparkling. ¡°So... who may this universe¡¯s Glypher be, my old friend?¡± Katrina spoke, her glowing, jungle green eyes meeting the handsome white-cloaked figure before her. An illusionary image appeared of their target, his long, black hair splayed out upon the bed and his green eyes gazing towards his journal. Motioning to her, the white-cloaked figure spoke, ¡°Believe it or not, Katrina, it¡¯s a human this time. A young man named Eden Hikaru Garter. I have already sent the package to him as per orders.¡± The cloaked figure placed a red-plated digital bio card into Katrina¡¯s hands, sporting all information collected on the one known as Eden. With a curious glance, she took it. ¡°Let us see....,¡± Katrina spoke in curiosity, pressing a button on the card, ¡°Religious data... raised Christian, considering Native American shamanic traditions. Frowns upon homosexuality and interspecies but trying to change beliefs due to a spiritual awakening two years prior followed by meeting an African American woman known as Krystal Clay. Has practiced astral projection, has visited up to the fifth dimension and has an affinity for dragons. Possesses a heavily keen intuition and vast amount of empathy.¡± With a sigh, the white-clocked figure turned towards Katrina, his expression becoming dismal at his next words, ¡°Katrina... Krystal is....¡±The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings. ¡°I assumed so,¡± Katrina sighed, slowly fidgeting with her skin-tight black bio-wrap, looking towards the ground. Katrina saw this as an incredibly delicate situation. The fact that the fourth member of the ground team would be dealing with not only entering a new world, but also grieving a loved one made the situation far less than ideal. It left her to ponder what would be the best method to deal with it. From his profile, Opal and Densetsu would likely only cause him further pain. Hinata, on the other hand, would be a fantastic ice-breaker. ¡®A scarred body and mind for a scarred heart...¡¯ Extending his hand, the white-cloaked figure pressed yet another button, revealing what truly weighed on Katrina¡¯s mind, her eyes widening at what she saw. Her seal-shaped nose twitching, Katrina placed her hand to her mouth, her tone a gasp, ¡°Dragon Gene... a class-nine Glyph Impact.¡± ¡°You have a chance this time, Karina,¡± the white-cloaked figure to spoke her, smiling towards as he gave a thumbs-up, ¡°In fact, you all do. This is going to be an easy mission with a great captain.¡± As if to question her comrade, Katrina¡¯s eyes narrowed in emotional turmoil as she spoke, ¡°So... do you mean.... a chance to win, or a chance to.... well...¡± ¡°Both.¡± The response caused Katrina to give a somber chuckle. This was followed by a dismissive wave towards her ally, ¡°I suppose I should inform Hinata of this, then...¡± ¡°What about Opal and yourself?¡± The white-cloaked figure¡¯s question was met with a head-shake from Katrina, ironic smile forming on her crab-shaped lips as she spoke, ¡°I am fine on my own. After all....¡± The white-cloaked figure gave an annoyed huff. This was followed by the crossing of his arms as he chastised her, ¡°You have a chance with this one, Katrina. It would be nice if you let down your armor and tried to take it.¡± ¡°Hmph. Are your words metaphorical or literal this time?¡± Katrina¡¯s question was met the white-cloaked figure¡¯s compassionate, ¡°Both.¡± Both.... of course it was both. He always spoke in double-meanings. Katrina had no idea why it would be a good idea to ¡°drop her armor¡± with a human. Humans judged more than they accepted. Both... it had never been both before. At least, not the case of the lattermost question. It would be best to contact Hinata. It would be best to keep her armor on. It would be best to never drop her armor. Or would it? Jump ~Eden~ 9:00 AM, September 01, 2002. Dear journal... Eden Garter here. I can¡¯t believe it¡¯s finally come to this. Alexis Jonson was freaking right all along. Martial law. In New York City. I thought Greg R. Tree was in the right rounding up all the Muslims. But things speeded up so fast. Two months after 9-11, Lady Liberty was hit a bomb-filled plane and a bunch of suicide bombings occurred in major city after major city over the course of three months. They declared a county-wide state of emergency after that. They came for the Muslims first, then everyone of Arabic descent, then everyone else on the ¡°Terror Watch List¡±. Eighty-seven percent of Americans, including anyone who ever researched guns! I thought I found happiness, but it all gets taken away in the blink of an eye. My house is probably going to be busted into because I¡¯m a Christian. Hell if I know how long it will be until that happens. I don¡¯t know how much longer I have until we¡¯re put in a FEMA Camp, but I¡¯m hoping my journal will be found by an Info-Conflicts reporter. A knock on the door. ¡®Shit¡­ they¡¯re here.¡¯ Eden opened a panel below the blue rug, placing the book inside the hatch. Afterwards, he slowly exited his bedroom, taking what he assumed would be one last look at the white walls, cozy green bed, floral-framed mirror and antique dressers. As he descended the spiraling wooden staircase, Eden felt his eye twitch knowing his white felt t-shirt and black boxers the only thing which he would be unceremoniously carried away in. ¡°Coming¡­,¡± Eden whimpered, his hands shaking upon reaching towards the knob. After he opened the door, Eden found a brown cardboard box sitting on the gray mat outside his door. Although the sounds of helicopters were audible, there were no soldiers in sight. He could also sense an aura of holistic contentment lingering around the parcel. Wary as he was, Eden took the package inside with confused thoughts, ¡®Who could have sent a package with the city full of the N.W.O. Gestapo?¡¯If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. After pulling a box cutter from a drawer in the main room of his apartment, Eden sliced the tape from his unexpected gift. With a grunt, Eden tore the box open, revealing a circular bronze-colored device the size of his hand, the outer rim plastered with illegible writing and the inside adorned with a transparent orb. Next to the odd contraption was what seemed to be a letter written on what seemed to be ancient papyrus. Curious, Eden took the scroll-like text, proceeding to examine it. He took full notice of the incredible sacred and protective energy surrounding it. Eden Garter, I am sorry to inform you that your fiance Krystal Clay and your stepdaughter-to-be Krysta have been killed. I offer you a way to escape death and take back the world that is yours. If you do not wish to die and/or wish to take revenge for them, touch the center of this device. It will protect you and pull you into a higher dimension where you will find people who have the power to fight and kill Illuminati agents. There are people who will care about and fight with you, but you must be willing to let them in. Sincerely, your friend Mikey. ¡®I don¡¯t know anyone named Mikey¡­,¡¯ Eden thought to himself in bitter sorrow, ¡®Whatever this is, it seems to have some holy power. It might be some new type of LSD-like drug, but fuck it. I¡¯ll die in that FEMA camp anyway. Best case scenario, this is some kind of sign from God. Worst case scenario, I¡¯ll be doped the hell out before I die.¡¯ With this, he reached his hand to the orb. A flash of white light enveloped the young man, a surge of energy coursing through his veins. His vision went dim. Blackness. His vision returned. Confusion. Over Eden stood a figure slightly over six feet tall, her face human-shaped with the features of a crab. Other features include a black, skin-tight armor padding, the joints covered by a luminescent, mahogany-colored, gelatinous gemstone. The insectoid-handed woman held a large sword with unusual features, its hilt pure white and adorned with quartz orbs, its pommel gold, the guarded grip a light blue. The oddest feature, however, was its double-sided, serrated, laser-shaded blade. ¡°Give me your hand, Eden Garter...¡± The figure¡¯s mid-pitched and smoother than the finest silk, her hand extended toward Eden cordially. His eyes widening at the situation, Eden pressed his hand against his head, his eyes widening and his tone one of dumfounded bemusement, ¡°...Shit, that thing must have been laced with some new drug. I¡¯m definitely tripping huge-ass balls here...¡± With a clasp of his hand, the odd creature pulled Eden to his feet. Neon blue light shone through the grating of diamond-tiled platinum-colored floor, the walls seemingly made from amethyst. He had lain on a soft, gel-like reddish-orange bed. Large, multicolored orbs flew through the air and what seemed to be a cylindrical control panel sat in the corner of the room. ¡°You are in the Anomaly Guild. You, Eden Garter... are a Class-B Dragon Anomaly.¡± The creature¡¯s calm tone and sweet voice echoed through the chambers, causing Eden to be further dumbfounded. With a huff of shock, Eden thrust himself upon the bed, ¡°Okay.... I get a gift from a guy named ¡®Mikey¡¯, I open it, I touch it, and now I¡¯m on some psychodelic acid trip like something out of Heavy Metal. Fuck me, the soldiers are probably laughing their asses off at my fizzing mouth.¡± ¡°This is no acid tip, Eden. You have entered the fourth dimension in a physical sense.¡± At the creature¡¯s words, a mammoth-yet-disturbing smile formed on Eden¡¯s lips. This was followed by a simple series of nods. In response, he saw the creature reach for his hand, only for him to collapse with a yawning moan. Comfort ~Eden~ Awakening in the same bed as before, Eden glanced around, finding his body nude and his privates gone. ¡°Where the fuck¡¯s my dick!?¡± Eden¡¯s words echoed throughout the chambers as he rose, slapping his head, ¡°Shit... if I¡¯m not in astral form... and I woke up in the same place I passed out... It was real. A polished-tenor Italian accented voice spoke at this time, ¡°Eden... may I come in? Smacking his head, Eden let out a wail of hysterical frustration, ¡°Fine! Come on in miss whatever-you-are! How about we light up doobies and watch hardcore hentai on my jumbo-screen television while we¡¯re at it!¡± With a sigh, the door opened, revealing a pink female humanoid dragon roughly somewhere around five feet tall, a camo muscle shirt covering her bust and top, a navy blue underbelly barely visible underneath it. The blue MMA shorts which adorned the dragoness¡¯s legs led Eden to believe she was some sort of martial artist, whereas the red center of said jeans being adorned with a bald eagle and the lining which clasped to the bottom of them also made it apparent that she was likely a heavy patriot. Eden saw the dragoness¡¯s deep silver eyes gazed at him with questioning compassion while her seven jet-black horns seemed to radiate imposition, although this may have been the shock talking. ¡°Eden.... I know this may be a lot to take in,¡± the dragoness whispered in tender manner as she approached with expression of benevolence, ¡°But it wasn¡¯t easy for any of us.¡± Sitting still, Eden looked to the dragoness¡¯s kind and understanding expression. His felt his own expression soften in a physical sense, but from a mental standpoint he felt as if his face were stone. The facts began to set in over a few seconds.The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation. ¡°If this is all real... and the note was right... t-th-then...,¡± Eden¡¯s quivering words were followed by a sob as he placed his face in his hands, ¡°Krystal is DEAD!!!¡± Multiple snow-white, shoulder-length double-pigtails dangled slowly in front of Eden¡¯s face. This was followed an arm around his body. Oddly, the grease in the dragoness¡¯s hair smelled of roses and freeze-dried strawberries. As he felt the dragoness draw him closer, Eden heard her mutter the considerate words, ¡°Let it all out....¡± Unable to control his grief, Eden collapsed into the dragoness¡¯s chest, sobbing in despair. This was met by a shudder and what seemed to be incoherent mumbling from the dragoness as she wrapped her arms around his body. An odd sensation swathed Eden¡¯s head. This was followed by the echo of words. <....I.... I don¡¯t know what the hell to do! Why is this happening to me!?> After a few minutes, the sobbing ceased and Eden was composed enough to speak. He looked into the dragoness¡¯s shining orbs, a motherly smile upon her face as she patted his back. ¡°What¡¯s your name miss?¡± Eden managed to cough out the words as the dragoness embraced him once more. Taking Eden¡¯s hands in hers, the dragoness spoke two honey-sweet words, ¡°Hinata Dyne.¡± Flipping open a small, circular locket, the dragoness now known as Hinata set the trinket upon the bed. With a smile, she motioned for Eden to look. Through blurry eyes, Eden barely made out a picture of a younger and joyous Hinata next to two full-grown female humans. ¡°Is that...?¡± Eden whispered, looking to Hinata. In response, Hinata hand placed her hand on his, closing the locket, nodding shortly after. Placing her arm around Eden¡¯s body, Hinata looked to him with a longing expression, ¡°My parents. They were killed by the Illuminati in my universe. I lost everyone, but... well... sometimes I think it was for the best.¡± Flipping the locket a second time, Hinata revealed another picture. This one sported a handsome and powerful-looking middle-aged man with his arm wrapped around a visually uncomfortableyoungHinata¡¯s waist. The fact that his face was scratched off and a knife was drawn upon his crotch made the acts he had committed upon her horrendously obvious. ¡°Oh my God, Hinata,¡± Eden whispered, reaching for the shoulder of the dragoness, ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t realize you must have been...¡± Looking to the young man with strong yet pained eyes, Hinata smiled, "So... do you have a tendency act this way with every mistreated creature or are you one of those ''white knight'' types who will treat me like I''m some sort of delicate, heavily-deflowered flower?" The Kindred Spirit ~Eden~ He found this situation completely alien to him. Not only had he entered a new plane of existence, he had also just entered what was potentially a romantic conversation with a sexually-abused female dragon he knew absolutely nothing about. Well, nothing save for her bubbly and willful aura. It was obvious he had to tread carefully, but the torrential mixture of confusion, shock, grief and empathy caused his head to spin. ¡°Apparently you¡¯re stronger than many who have been through that. They would end up with a victim complex or never be willing to be touched,¡± Eden spoke as he placed his hand on Hinata¡¯s arm, ¡°But you...¡± In turn, Hinata nodded, her arms folding around Eden¡¯s head as she pulled his face to her shoulder, ¡°You needed it....¡± It was clear to Eden this odd dragoness was stronger than most on more than one front. Her trained body made it obvious she that had strength from a physical standpoint, but her actions showed that she was both emotionally and mentally powerful as well. ¡°Well, I have to admit I have a tendency to a healer,¡± Eden spoke, scratching his head, ¡°I mean, I it¡¯s not like I¡¯m trying to hit on you or anything...¡± With a somber smile, Hinata motioned Eden to her locket. She then looked to him as her expression shifted to docility, ¡°I know. We read that on your profile. Despite being vulgar, blunt and a bit of a short-fuse when riled up, you have a very loving heart. Not to mention your temper tends to be absent when interacting with your loved ones.¡± ¡°Well... why did you ask?¡± Eden¡¯s question was met by Hinata¡¯s giggle. Waving her hand, Hinata smiled, ¡°It was just a joke, Eden. Nothing more.¡± ¡°Heh... here I thought you were the one hitting on me,¡± Eden chuckled, smiling comically at Hinata. He then became nervous at the words he had spoken, ¡°Sorry... was that too far?¡± A snicker and shake of Hinata¡¯s head were more than enough to signal the answer. However, Eden was taken aback when Hinata placed her hand on his head, a fist forming shortly after. Although this worried him, his fear were alleviated when he found Hinata grinding said fist into his head playfully.This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. As she continued the retro action, Hinata smirked, ¡°I can tell that¡¯s a joke as well, or are you into girls with ¡®sickly cats¡¯?¡± ¡®Hinata still manages to smile and laugh, even after being through that shit? Maybe this kind of humor must be a coping mechanism of some sort... or is it? Are dragons different than humans in this aspect? Either way, she¡¯s so strong...¡¯ These thoughts continued in Eden¡¯s head as the dragoness rubbed his irritated scalp. Although their meeting has been seamless so far, Eden knew it would be best to tread carefully with Hinata. There would be no telling what could trigger past memories. Perhaps she had been through therapy for this, but in his eyes, erring on the side of caution would be the best option by far. Looking to his belt area, Eden¡¯s expression became one of embarrassment. He hesitated for a moment to gather his bearings and courage before the question. Prodding Hinata¡¯s paw-like hand, Eden muttered, ¡°Er.... So if you don¡¯t mind me asking, on the subject of ¡®private matters¡¯... uh... Where¡¯s my dick?¡± ¡°Well...,¡± Hinata huffed, placing her hand on her hips at her next words as a simper formed on her muzzle, ¡°Apparently someone really is blunt and vulgar, now aren¡¯t they?¡± The response caused a partial smile to form on Eden¡¯s lips. In response, Hinata released a maidenly giggle. ¡°There¡¯s a shrouding spell on you that cloaks and etherealizes people¡¯s privates,¡± Hinata spoke in a near-laugh, ¡°We do that with the more... instinct-driven sentient species when they first come here....¡± Blinking, Eden opened his mouth to speak, only for Hinata to smirk while pushing his maw shut with her claw. She followed this action by brushing her hair against his nose. With a smug grin, Hinata poked her claw into Eden¡¯s forehead, ¡°To put it simply, we temporarily de-materialized Eden Junior because you humans tend to have your pocket rockets blast off your body and your feeble-willed cats die of shock unless you spend a few hours getting used the pheromones stinking up this place!¡± The informational jest caused Eden to burst into laughter, Hinata joining him in the merriment. After several seconds, the jolliness died down and Eden let loose a sigh, his expression softening. Without thinking, Eden laid his head in Hinata¡¯s lap, ¡°Thanks for all that... and I mean it. I might have lost my shit if not for you.¡± Ever so slowly, Eden closed his eyes, only to feel Hinata gently cradle his head against her chest. As he drifted to sleep from mental and emotional exhaustion, he found his body slowly being pulled into a protective embrace. Being comforted so shortly after his stupor and subsequent breakdown by a complete stranger caused Eden¡¯s hear to warm. He had never imagined he would be greeted by such loving creatures. He knew not of the hybrid¡¯s personality, but Hinata seemed incredibly caring and selfless. Was everyone in this world so compassionate? Was everyone in this world so comforting? Was everyone in this world better humans than humans themselves? The Seductress ~Eden~ ¡°SHUT UP OPAL!!!¡± Hinata¡¯s snapping words caused him to jolt awake, now face-to-face with a crimson dragoness, her cyan eyes gazing at him naughtily and her lavender hair in front of her face. ¡°So, you¡¯re up...¡± The crimson dragoness¡¯s Irish-accented, seductive words sent waves of sensation through Eden¡¯s body as she teleported to the corner of the room. Eden gulped upon gazing at the black-clawed crimson dragoness¡¯s overtly sexual attire. Her exceedingly curved and slender yet intensely muscular body was barely clothed. Moving towards the two, the crimson dragoness pulled at the straps of her orange-colored, wing-shaped chest-plate covering her dark coral underbelly with one hand, fondling one of the voluptuous breasts which overlaid half her upper chassis with the other. As if it were an act of protection, Eden found Hinata pulling him into her arms, cradling his head against her shoulder. His eyes widened as he recalled the words spoken to him before he fell to sleep. The dragoness approached the two whilst toying with the short violent mini-skirt and swaying the wide hips connected with her skinny yet powerful legs. Her flaunting was painfully obvious to Eden. ¡°Opal, he just arrived and already you¡¯re making advances on him!?¡± Hinata bellowed, clenching her three-clawed fist, her blue talons nearly digging into her scales, ¡°Do you have ANY decency!?¡±This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report. With a grin, the dragoness sat next to Hinata, her hair swaying in front of her face as she spoke, ¡°I just wanted to cheer him up.¡± The mere fact that this dragoness offered her body sickened Eden to the very core, although he was uncertain as to whether it was from his skills as an empath or the idea of sex with a stranger. ¡°Listen... I don¡¯t know who you are, but I don¡¯t like sluts, let alone plow them,¡± Eden grunted, glaring at the dragoness he now knew as Opal, ¡°And should I add ¡®any self-respect¡¯ to Hinata¡¯s comment?¡± A huff was given by Opal as she turned away, folding her arms defensively, ¡°I was only trying to help get your mind off things, Eden.¡± ¡°Well, I don¡¯t need that kind of ¡®help¡¯,¡± Eden retorted, ¡°I mean, I just got teleported into the fourth dimension, for God¡¯s sake! If not for my previous astral projections I would think I was going insane!¡± In response to his outburst, Opal sighed, approaching Eden once more, her expression now gentle. Nodding, she sat next to Hinata, offering him her paw. Due to being curious about Opal¡¯s now-distressed emotional wavelength, Eden slowly extended his hand towards her. It would be better to make friends in place of enemies on his first day, after all. Not only this, but her aura was far from malevolent. As she cupped his palm, Eden saw Opal¡¯s expression soften. She then spoke, ¡°Listen... I¡¯m sorry. It¡¯s just the first thing that comes to mind for cheering someone up. I have... I have problems, okay?¡± ¡°Nymphomania, I presume?¡± Eden sighed, taking Opal¡¯s left hand in his right, placing his left palm on her shoulder, ¡°Listen... Opal, was it? I can sense a strong aura of pain and sweetness around you. I don¡¯t know what happened to make you this way, but instead of sex with random people, I suggest finding a really kinky guy with a heart of gold.¡± After a shocked blink, Opal smiled warmly. Her eyes gained partial dampness as well. Without warning, Eden found her planting kiss a kiss on his lips. ¡°Thanks for the advice..,¡± Opal whispered, nuzzling Eden¡¯s forehead, ¡°I appreciate-¡± ¡°Opal!¡± ¡°I¡¯m so sorry!¡± The next thing he knew, Eden found himself pinned down by Hinata and his head spinning. His body also felt heavy. A rugged, baritone, Japanese-accented voice then spoke. ¡°So, the kid is thinking with his head again and not his dick? Damn, that girl needs to learn to control her innate succubus powers instead of focusing on magic and first aid.¡± Eden was nothing but confused. The Muscle Man Chapter 6 - The Muscle Man ~Eden~ The new figure was that of a three-tailed Kitsune, his shirtless body revealing a martial artist build, his blue-green fur on his body neatly groomed along with the light orange fur on his underbelly. His red eyes met Eden with annoyance as he shuffled his black shao-lin leggings and toyed with his gem bracelets in irritation. ¡°So, kid... you like the fact that Opal almost got you with the succubus kiss?¡± The kitsune teleported in front of Eden at the rhetorical question as he looked into his his eyes, ¡°I really wish she would stop with the medical training and focus on her dark powers. That way she wouldn¡¯t seduce ever guy she meets.¡± It was now obvious to Eden what had happened. He had been placed under hypnosis by Opal¡¯s kiss. She likely had some active succubus genes, or this is what he assumed. Stolen novel; please report. <....Someone has a high opinion of themselves.> <....A hundred or so.> Eden tapped Hinata¡¯s shoulder in curiosity. In response, Hinata heaved a sigh, pulling out a slip of paper from her shorts, handing it to him. The unfolding of the paper revealed a group movie ticket to Eden. He glanced to the shy-expression on Hinata¡¯s face, followed by the smug one upon the face of the kitsune. ¡°Just... I... I was thinking we could all get to know each other... er... I mean, you could get to know us over a movie. Is that okay, Eden?¡± Hinata¡¯s question was coupled with the nervous crossing of her legs and a dainty lacing of her fingers. ¡°Well... I guess it would be for the best...¡± Eden¡¯s words emerged as a sigh as he looked to Hinata, rising from the bed, ¡°Who else will I meet there?¡± Placing his claws between his lips, Densetsu let out a high-pitched, wailing whistle. Without a second¡¯s notice, the creature from beforehand and Opal appeared before them. This caused Eden to yelp. Katrina Chapter 7 - Katrina ~Eden~ Without warning, the creature shot a beam of light from her index finder onto his body. After a burst of smoke, green and yellow Hawaiian shorts appeared on his lower regions as well as white boxers underneath. Heaving a groan, Eden placed his hand to his face, ¡°I guess it will have to do... ¡°Eden... I am Guildmaster Katrina,¡± the creature spoke, extending her hand to Eden, ¡°I¡¯m afraid I could not introduce myself earlier.¡± With a nod, Eden grasped Katrina¡¯s hand in unease, shaking it gently, ¡°Um... a pleasure, I¡¯m sure.¡± The texture of Katrina¡¯s flesh seemed to be a mixture of human skin and insectoid chitin. It was odd to Eden, to say the least. She seemed to have a beautiful voice fit for the role of a 60¡¯s actress. He could only assume she was taken long ago and her mate was either currently not present or dead. ¡°So what is this place?¡± In response to Eden¡¯s question, Katrina extended her hand, ¡°The Anomaly Guild. One of the many branches of the Empyrean Conservators. We fight against the Illuminati, demons and other Luciferian creatures throughout different dimensions and timelines. You are, how you say, the ¡®Chosen One¡¯ of your timeline.¡± ¡°So... basically I was selected by the powers that be to save my world?¡± Eden¡¯s question was met by a nod from Katrina. With a sigh, Eden looked the ceiling. He always felt there was a purpose for his existence, but never something like this. Despite this fact, it wasn¡¯t as if he thought himself to the second coming of Jesus. He saw himself as a prophet at most, cut from the same cloth as the ancient Greek philosophers such as Plato, never some divine warrior.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. ¡°Eden, place this to the back of your mind until you feel comfortable here. Focus on what movie you wish to watch.¡± After Katrina¡¯s words, Eden heaved a sigh. Pondering for a moment at her question, he soon decided on his favorite film of all time, ¡°Ace Ventura, Pet Detective.¡± The banter caused Eden to chuckle. These creatures certainly knew how to have fun between themselves. Perhaps Densetsu wasn¡¯t as bad as he first assumed. < I should call you ¡®Densetsu no Kusottare¡¯...> <....That was low, Densetsu.> Eden found that Katrina had twisted Densetsu¡¯s arm and was fully intent on keeping the vicegrip until further notice. It was obvious she was against any cruelty between team members. At this point Eden was more certain of himself. Perhaps Densetsu was just as he had assumed. A complete muscle-head and the team jackass. Either that, or he was hiding something about himself. Densetsu¡¯s aura showed loyalty and kindness, but also a vast amount of egotism. Hinata¡¯s was filled with will and jolliness. Opal¡¯s was that of sweetness and pain. Katrina, however, had an aura of authority as well as complete purity and love. All in all, Eden felt he was part of quite a rounded and understanding team. Krystal and her daughter was all Eden had, at least in non-material sense. With them gone, this was the best alternative. Beside this, his planet was, for all intents and purposes, gone. He was adaptable, and the lessons he learned from the dragons and other beings were invaluable for his current situation. Eden knew this new life would take more than a slight amount of getting used to, but at least these beings were better than most of humanity. This was something he took comfort in. Despite the fact that he would likely never return to Earth life, what would be the point in doing so? These beings were a welcome change from most the others. ¡®Krystal... I wish you could be here with me...¡¯ Hinatas Uncertainty ~Hinata~ <....Ugh... He just lost his fiance, you tangle-tailed, whisker-faced muscle-brain!> This was the conversation Hinata had with Densetsu while waiting for Eden to wake up. Despite this, she was conflicted. Eden was the only male in her guild who she felt emotionally and mentally compatible with, but at the same time she was afraid of a relationship with him. Not for her sake, as she was fully confident in Katrina¡¯s choosing of him, but for his sake. It wasn¡¯t the idea of physical contact which bothered her. She had been through years of therapy for it and was quite confident in herself. The real problem was her occasional knee-jerk retaliations to certain types of contact and her lack of confidence in her body. Although certain she had recovered enough mentally and open to Eden¡¯s touch, she also felt she would be a terrible intimate partner when it came to down to sex.Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. The very prospect of forming a loving relationship with Eden only to disappoint him in bed, or worse, strike him, caused Hinata to be wary of seeing him as anything but a close friend. She was afraid not of the romantic aspect, but the physical aspect of their possible relationship. Eden could live without sex, and she was happy to know this. But, even so, it would be cruel to deprive him of it. Humans had needs, after all. Perhaps she was planning too far ahead, as usual. She knew she had a problem. Either over-thinking or under-thinking. These were her modes. Never a happy medium. She really needed to work on that. ¡®Test him...? How did I test him?¡¯ As Hinata followed her companions through the hallways, she sunk into thought. ¡®Oh, Eden... if only you knew what Katrina is trying to do with us. She sees you as an amazing person who would help me get over my fears.¡¯ Should she show him her scars? If she did, would he look to her with sympathy and feel sorry for her? Would he ignore them? Would he... find them endearing? No. No male thinks that way. No male would find her ruined body endearing.... would they? ¡°Hinata, are you okay? We¡¯re here.¡± Eden¡¯s words snapped Hinata from her trance. In response she nodded, turning her attention towards a multi-paneled screen upon the ceiling. Hinata found she had been guided by Opal¡¯s hand the entire duration of their walk. Opal¡¯s face revealed her concern and her grip only furthered this assumption. With a sigh, Hinata sat next to Eden, taking notice of the sweet, buttery scent of popcorn in his lap. To her shock, he had gotten a jumbo size. Although the refreshments were free, she had no idea why he would decide on such a large portion. ¡°Eden... why did you....¡± Hinata ceased her words upon realizing Eden had placed a drink in her armrest. On the cup was cursive writing. This is yours. Opal said you liked strawberry-melon smoothies. My treat. The popcorn is for both of us. I hope you like a lot of butter. Tears welled up in Hinata¡¯s eyes. Not a single male in her guild had ever acted this way towards her. Eden was the most considerate person she had ever met. Why was he going so far just for her? Was it because he felt sorry for her, or was it because he actually cared for her? ¡°Why...?¡± Hinata choked out, looking to Eden with confusion, her body tensing in uncertainty and her tail stiffening, ¡°Why are you doing this for me?¡± With a warm smile, Eden placed his hand on hers as he spoke, ¡°Do I really need a reason for being kind to someone, especially when that someone has been through so much?¡± Hinata now was slightly more convinced that Eden was far from a normal human. Although she was informed he was a starseed mix, his personality barely even resembled humanity at all. Compassion, selflessness, honor, love. He was the opposite of everything she knew about his specie in most cases. It was alien to her, but also quite exciting. Perhaps Eden was the one human... the one male who could heal her heart. Or rather, perhaps they could heal together. ¡®As the saying goes, two broken souls will either mend each other or fuck each other up beyond repair.....¡¯ The question, though - was she willing to take that gamble? Opening Up ~Eden~ <¡¯Clicks¡¯? Do... do you have a crush on me, Hinata?> <...Yeah, maybe. But... can we start out slow?> The conversation was more than a shock for Eden. He was certain Hinata would be an incredible lover. Even so, he didn¡¯t expect to find a potential girlfriend within moments of arriving in this dimension.Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon. Whatever the case, Hinata was so cute. The way her tail wagged when she giggled at the raunchiest moments, the sparkle in her eyes, that intoxicating smile... Everything about her was just... perfect. It was obvious he had landed quite a catch with her, but... what would Krystal have said about it? ¡°Eden... I love you, and I want you to move on with a great woman. Cleanse yourself of my energy and allow yourself to love again.¡± That¡¯s what she would have said. Even so, the pain still stung. Krystal was dead, and so was his soon-to-be stepdaughter. He¡¯d kill them all. Every one of the people who ordered their deaths are going to die screaming. They would suffer and die at his hands. ¡°Eden, are you alright?¡± Hinata¡¯s words snapped Eden from his thoughts, her concerned expression drilling into his angered face. He turned to his potential girlfriend with a sigh, his expression softening and his posture loosening. It seemed he was growing closer to Hinata than he cared to admit, and at a rapid pace. What the fuck? ¡°Hinata, I¡¯m not the best guy in the world, you know...,¡± Eden groaned, looking to the ground, ¡°I¡¯m a fucking mess, okay? I have serious issues that you don¡¯t want to know about.¡± Eden felt Hinata¡¯s arm around his head. She was trying to comfort him, just like last time. She really was something special. As Hinata moved down his back, Eden felt a sensation which caused his body to feel as if he had injected a gallon of gelatin into his veins. It wasn¡¯t pain, but a relaxing, exceptional feeling that coursed through him, loosening every muscle tissue, every single fiber of his physical being. He let loose a soft moan at the alien waves coursing through him, even going to far as to allow himself to drool onto the floor. Only able to muster a weak groan, Eden panted out, ¡°What... are you doing... to me?¡± ¡°Spacial manipulation. I modified your muscles using rift magic, causing them to... well, call it a souped-up version of an anti-stress massage.¡± Hinata was so considerate. He owed her. But the question is, would she be open to such a thing? It would be best to ask, he supposed. Looking to Hinata, Eden spoke up, ¡°Hey... do you want me to give you one? I mean, with my hands? I guess I would need to know your body first, but...¡± ¡°Eden, I¡¯m afraid.... I-I¡¯m afraid I might hit you. I mean, it never happened before, but that¡¯s because I never... Are you willing to brave the unknown?¡± After a nod, Eden placed his head on Hinata¡¯s, immediately feeling a connection to her. She was easily seen to be nervous by the fact that her tail was wagging at a rapid pace, but her loose posture showed she was willing to try. It was likely Hinata knew she was hitting him a very intense rebound. He was fully aware of this as well. But, even so... it would be good to have someone to turn to for comfort. After all, he still had plenty of love to give, and it would do well for their team for him to have a reason to protect them. Her First Test ~Hinata~ She enjoyed the movie with him. Perhaps too much. The connection was definitely there. Attraction, attachment, similarities, everything. They were definitely compatible. She had to ask herself whether this was a good idea. She may very well strike Eden if she lost control. But... he was willing to take this leap for her. True, most guild members were usually open to physical experimentation, at least on a non-sexual scale with those who they hadn¡¯t bonded with. She, however, was not most guild members. ¡°Hinata... I am designating you and Eden as partners.¡± ¡°What!?¡± ¡°Wait, so soon?¡± ¡°Not in the marital sense, Eden. Merely living together. It is not unusual for team members to live in a quarters together, but sometimes the quarters are divided into two separate housing sections in place of four. Yours, however, will have three. Opal¡¯s, Densetsu¡¯s and one belonging to the two of you.¡± ¡°But... wait, why me and her?¡± ¡°Lars designates them based on personal data.¡± ¡°Oh, for... yeah, and I bet his personal thoughts had nothing to do with him placing me together with Eden, right?¡± ¡°Who is Lars?¡± ¡°Living Artificial Residence Software.¡± ¡°So a sentient computer program.¡± ¡°Yes, Eden.¡± ¡°So... are you really okay with this? We just met a while ago.¡± ¡°Yes, Eden... just don¡¯t ask me to disrobe completely. My underwear stay on, okay?¡± As she neared the Katrina had designated, Hinata¡¯s heart leapt to her throat. She was nervous, that was certain, but also excited beyond measure. She was filled with conflicting emotions, as she had never lived with anyone else, let alone a male. As the blue-green door opened, she entered alongside Eden. The main room was quaint. A large rainbow tie-dye yoga mat lay on the bamboo floor, which see assumed was for Eden and possibly herself. The walls were varnished orange-tinted oaken wood. A mid-sized pink sofa lay in the middle of the room and a massive gray television screen lay in front of it near the wall. Two bathrooms marked with each other their names lay in the east and west corners, and a main bedroom door on the north wall. All in all, she would likely enjoy their time together in this space. Looking to Eden, Hinata spoke, ¡°Okay... I-I¡¯m... I¡¯m going to get undressed in the bathroom. Don¡¯t watch, okay?¡±This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Eden nodded to her, a warm smile on his face as he approached the couch. In turn, she took to the doorway to her own bathroom, opening it. As she entered, Hinata found the bathroom was none other than hers. An old antique dresser and floral flamed mirror, black wood tiles on the floor, log-cabin styled walls, a small white curtain for the blue-tiled shower, everything. Bracing herself, Hinata opened to door ever so slightly. She had to test him. To her shock, Eden was laying upon the couch, his eyes closed and averting from the doorway. Not so much as a ¡°Are you ready?¡± or ¡°Done yet?¡± emerged from his mouth. She slowly disrobed, fully intent on making certain he didn¡¯t peek. After disrobing to her undergarments, she was shocked. Eden had paid her less than a moment¡¯s notice the entire time. Preparing herself, she exited the room, de-materializing her horns as to not injure him. ¡°Eden...? I¡¯m ready.¡± Nervous, she approached him little by little, slowly sitting upon the couch. In response, he turned to her, his expression and aura fully benevolent and loving. With a nod, he motioned for her to lay upon the couch as he stood up. Although slightly anxious, she obliged him, laying on her front upon the furniture with her arms and legs to the side. ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re okay with this?¡± After a nod of confirmation, Hinata felt Eden¡¯s hands meet her back. She gasped as he pressed his fingers into her body, obviously intend on ascertaining whatever damage had been done to her. ¡°Well, you¡¯re knotted up pretty badly. I think I should start on your shoulders.¡± Hinata instantly felt a rush of sensation as Eden kneaded his hands into her upper body. A tingling, or perhaps a pleasant burning, as he softly kneaded her tissue. Her uncle had never done this. No one had. ¡°Oh... wow...¡± ¡°Feel good?¡± ¡°Yes...¡± She was in complete bliss from the the tender strokes on her tensed muscles. Even single caress made her feel as if she were in heaven. She had inadvertently let out a soft moan as she felt him move to her spinal area, pressing, delicately healing her needy sinew from years of stress. A droning thrum emitted from her throat as he worked throughout her body. Lower back. Hips. Arms. Legs. Oh, dear God, this was something she never expected. ¡°Could you turn over?¡± ¡°Y-yes... just... look into my eyes when you touch anywhere private. I want to see your face.¡± She obliged him without a second thought, lost in his touch. His hands moved upon her neck, brushing against her with loving care. He pressed his fingers into her collarbone and... Words could not express how amazing that felt. She let out a giggle as he moved towards her sides. ¡°Are you ticklish?¡± ¡°Y-yes...¡± ¡°I¡¯ll be careful then.¡± Giggles mixed with groans erupted from her maw as he labored on the abdominal muscles she had worked so hard to obtain over the years. Finally, he looked into her eyes, his expression carrying the same compassion and kindness as usual. ¡°Are you ready? Is it okay?¡± ¡°Yes...¡± ¡®He¡¯s not going to hurt me. He¡¯s not my uncle.¡¯ Now was the moment of truth. Eden¡¯s feminine and graceful cossets met her breasts. She shuddered, attempting to keep herself from... shit! ¡°Ow!¡± She had punched him in the eye. She had failed. She was a horrible lover, just like she had assumed. ¡°Eden... I¡¯m so sorry!¡± ¡°It¡¯s... it¡¯s okay.¡± It was... okay? ¡°I understand, Hinata. Maybe you weren¡¯t ready for that yet.¡± He understood. What was he? Unable to control herself, Hinata began to sob. To her shock, however, Eden had climbed onto the upholstery with her, cradling her neck with tamest embrace she had ever felt. ¡°I don¡¯t care...¡± He didn¡¯t care... he didn¡¯t care? What was he? Without thinking, she embraced him in turn, taking full notice of his empathy and docility. ¡°Can we just sleep together like this?¡± At Eden¡¯s words, Hinata nodded. The only words she could make out was, ¡°Thank you....¡± [End of Act 1] The First Combat Session [Act 2 Begin] ~Eden~ 7:39 AM, September 9, 2002. Dear, Journal... Eden here. It¡¯s been a while since I last saw you. Well, at least Katrina was willing to send someone to pick you up and digitalize you. Hinata and I have been spending a lot of time together. She¡¯s really damn sweet, despite being iffy about things. True... she caught me at a bad time in my life, and maybe I¡¯m still getting over Krystal. Still, we¡¯re similar... very similar. I¡¯m getting settled in pretty well. I think I have my first training session tomorrow. Heh... little did they know I¡¯ve been practicing in virtual sessions with Hinata. We never really trained together, but she said I¡¯m doing quite well. At least I¡¯ve gotten used to the crunching of bone and sinew by now. My dragon form is really weird. An Angelic Dragon, apparently. I¡¯ve only seen an outline of it around me in-training. It seems to increase my abilities multiple times over. I told Katrina not to materialize my dick yet. I mean, it would be for the best that Hinata doesn¡¯t see my seven-inch pianist and his sizeable meatballs in all their glory just yet. But I mean, what will happen when she does? Will she freak out? Anyway, nothing much has happened yet. I mean, I had a conversation with Opal the other day. She¡¯s not as bad as everyone makes her out to be. She doesn¡¯t even seem to be a nympho, just a confused girl who sees sex as the answer to everything. Well, anyway, I have to go train... and shove a certain Kitsune¡¯s head all the way up his ass. The training room was something Eden never expected. Floors of green grids which illuminated upon being stepped on, yellow, glowing platforms and a backdrop that seemed to be the cosmos itself. ¡°So.... Eden... you ready?¡± Densetsu¡¯s words were paired with a smug grin as he cracked his knuckles. A chuckle erupted from Eden¡¯s throat as he looked to his new girlfriend, then Densetsu. Hinata had smirked at him, her eyes narrowing in sinister joy. As Eden looked to his opponent, she let out a cackle, causing the kitsune visual discomfort. Raising an eyebrow, Densetsu crossed his arms, ¡°What is all this about?¡±The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement. ¡°Angelic Dragon, Anthro-Form, Level One. Activate Speed Booster Alpha. Erect Physical Shied Alpha.¡± Upon Eden¡¯s words, his body became numb to pain and began to shift, pearl-shaded feathers erupting from his entire form, his bones contorting and golden claws erupting from his hands. His face shifted, becoming a feathered draconic muzzle in the shape of an eagle, his eyes changing to a shade of teal green. His hands and feet twisted into a more paw-esque shape and a long, slender tail burst from his back. The second effect took place, the muscles in Eden¡¯s legs becoming more compact and slightly denser. The third followed, a yellow barrier forming around his body. Densetsu¡¯s expression was easily seen to be one of shock to Eden. He clearly didn¡¯t expect Hinata to train him to this point. Although Eden was fully aware of Densetsu and grateful for pushing Hinata into a relationship with him, he also knew he needed to show the amount of strength he had gained said relationship so far. His eyes narrowing, Densetsu dashed at Eden full-force, a katar forming in his hand as his speed visually increased to mach 1. Moving swiftly, Eden prepared himself to counter. Upon feeling the G-force from Densetsu¡¯s rush approach, Eden crouched into a jumping position. Densetsu grinned, creating a barrier of magical blue flame above Eden¡¯s body as lunged towards him. A clang resounded throughout the room as the wind burst around them. Eden flashed a smug grin, blocking the blow with two thin, clean-edged chakrams of yellow-green angelic energy. Densetsu grimaced at his tactic, only for his eyes to widen shortly after. Hisploy had worked. The third, serrated-edged chakram he had placed around Densetsu¡¯s neck using his tail flipped inside-out, the shark-tooth blades digging into the throat of his opponent, slowly carving away fur and flesh. Blood trickled from the throat of the kitsune as he struggled against the twin circles which blocked his weapon. ¡°Please, kid... you don¡¯t have the stomach to...¡± The chakram spun, fur, flesh, blood and sinew splattering across the floor as Densetsu¡¯s neck was rended to mere crimson-speckled bone before he could speak further, his cateriod artery spraying as if all above his neck was a gruesome fountain. He stood for seconds before falling to the floor. ¡°Well, that¡¯s that. I guess I have to wait until he regenerates now.¡± After a moment, Densetsu¡¯s body mended itself. Eden could easily read his expression to be one of impressment as he extended his hand towards him. It came as a slight shock to Eden when Densetsu grasped his hand, shaking it. To his surprise, this was followed by a hug. A manly hug, but a hug nonetheless. After breaking, Densetsu placed a hand on his shoulder. With a smile, Densetsu nodded to Eden, ¡°Kid, Hinata really made a man out of you. I knew I was right to push her into giving you a shot. She really helped you grow. Heh... or maybe you¡¯re helping each other grow.¡± ¡°Yeah... you...,¡± Eden spoke, only to raise an eyebrow in suspicion at his next words, ¡°Wait... You¡¯re not really an asshole, are you?¡± With a chuckle, Densetsu turned away, folding his arms, ¡°Heh... I can be when I want. I just pick and choose my asshole moments. Not like I really care much for fluffy ones.¡± ¡°This is enough,¡± Katrina spoke, approaching them, ¡°The round is concluded. Eden wins with a grade of A. Densetsu loses with a grade of D. Opal wins with a grade of C, Hinata loses with a grade of A.¡± With a snap of Katrina¡¯s fingers, Eden found himself back in his room with a visually content Hinata. The Shower ~Hinata~ ¡°Eden... I... I trust you enough to show you something now...,¡± Hinata sighed, motioning toward a new door. She was intent on showing this young man exactly what he would be signing up for if he were to continue their relationship. It was likely to disgust him enough to drive him away, but disappointment now would be easier to cope with than disappointment later in their relationship. A rumbling was audible from her bathroom. After this, the door swung open to reveal the alterations to her shower, now expanded to roughly seven times its original 5x5-foot size. ¡®...I should just walk away right now....¡¯ With a sigh, she looked to Eden, who had an expression of pure befuddled shock upon his face. She placed a finger in the air, motioning for him to wait. ¡°Eden...,¡± Hinata whimpered, as she entered the room, ¡°I... when the shower comes on, I want you to follow me inside.¡± This caused Eden to enter a coughing fit. He clearly didn¡¯t expect her to allow him to see her so-aptly named ¡®sickly cat¡¯ so early in their relationship. With a sigh, she closed the door save for a minuscule amount. She then muttered, ¡°Eden... this is where you prove you don¡¯t care what happened to me in the past...¡± He nodded to her in response as she closed the door. Upon reaching the bathroom, she removed her sweat-covered gymnastic shirt, hanging it upon the rack. She looked in the mirror, taking notice of her own anxious form. She sighed, looking to her simple-design, wrap-pattered bra. It would be so much easier to merely wear wraps as top covering, but then again, that would be a too-intense reminder of her past.This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. She slowly disrobed, de-materializing her horns and manipulating her hands to become more draconic as was her own preference. She then proceeded to remove all the other articles of clothing. This was followed by her braids, allowing her hair to flow freely down to her lower back as she looked upon her disgusting lower body once more. He would be sickened by it, she was certain of it. Just like all the others. Making her way to the shower, she prepared herself for the inevitable abandonment. She stepped inside, as she had many times before, pressing the button. The warm sensation of heated water instantly hit her, rinsing the sweet floral-scented oil and grime from her now-downed hair. At this moment, Eden entered. ¡°Is it okay if I come in?¡± Eden spoke as he stepped through the doorway. To Hinata¡¯s shock, Eden was fully nude, yet had not yet asked for his unmentionables to be restored. She had no idea why he would continue without them after he had adapted to the scent of the guild members. Humans had needs, after all. She turned her back as she sensed Eden grow closer. She shuddered at the thought of being abandoned again. She had grown accustomed to it, but she had also never felt this strongly about a male before. ¡°Promise me you won¡¯t be disgusted when you see it, Eden....¡± These were the only words she could make out. There was a brief moment of silence, broken only by Eden¡¯s words, ¡°I won¡¯t promise that...¡± Her heart seemed to sink into the earth itself. At least he was honest, unlike the others who made false promises and later broke them. Still, it furthered her anxiety towards the situation. ¡®Just tell him to go away... tell him you want to break it off, you stupid girl! Don¡¯t ask any questions, just...¡¯ She couldn¡¯t help herself. She slowly turned her head as she whimpered, ¡°Wh-why?¡± ¡°Because I¡¯ll promise I¡¯ll see it as another one of your badges of strength.¡± Her heart seemed to leap into space itself. Eden seemed to be tricky, but honest as well. Had he meant that he might be disgusted, but he would also work past it? She wasn¡¯t certain, but... at least it was a start. ¡°Eden...¡± She managed to rasp his name as he entered the shower with her. She slowly turned, her legs still crossed as she sighed, ¡°I¡¯m... going to show you my sickly cat now...¡± Uncrossing her legs, she slowly backed up, getting into position as she had so many times before, her arms and legs open in the style of an anime character ready to feel their final blow. It was ironic that she tended to use this courageous action trope at the moment of her greatest fear and vulnerability. In response to the revelation of her all-too-prominent physical damage, Eden wrapped his arms around her, placing his hand on her back and another around her waist. He then whispered in her earlobe, ¡°I don¡¯t care, Hinata. All I see is a treasure that a lot of people were unworthy of and one person treated as garbage. It has been damaged, but is still as valuable as the day it was created. ¡± She couldn¡¯t help but take notice of the odd... sincerity in his words. Over the course of several seconds, her expression changed from shock, to joy, ending with her collapsing to her knees, sobbing as Eden cradled her against his body. ¡®Of all the people who could have been the first in years to see me cry..... I¡¯m glad it¡¯s you...¡¯ ¡°It¡¯s okay... You and I... are gonna¡¯ be okay...¡± The Meeting

~Eden~

12:52 PM, September 10, 2002. Dear journal... I plan on a special evening with Hinata. She deserves this. Besides, I really want to show her my romantic talents. Krystal loved them after all. Krys... if you¡¯re up there, I... I know I barely knew you for more than three months, but you showed me there was a different path to God than what I followed. Now I want to pay it forward, just as you said... with Hinata. It¡¯s the least I can do for you. Eden found himself sitting to the right of Hinata, the chairs made from an odd, lime-green, gelatinous substance which conformed to his body. Opal and Densetsu sat behind him. Katrina stood in the center of the golden-tiled room in front of an odd, floral-framed screen. ¡°May I ask if you are all well?¡± Eden grinned at Katrina¡¯s words, looking to Hinata. In turn, he noticed Katrina¡¯s aura shift to a mixture joy and sadness. This confused him, but he felt it would be best not to pry. The screen became static, then shifted to a diagram of what appeared to be a news station. It was then Eden noticed the outside. It was the Paradox News Station, run by Alexis Johnson herself.Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. ¡°This is now the solitary company which distributes all news to the United States. Alexis Johnson played you all for fools. She is the one of the head propaganda ministers for the Illuminati.¡± Katrina¡¯s words and stern expression caused Eden complete shock. Alexis Johnson, his heroine, had been nothing more than a satanic beast this whole time. ¡°Once Martial Law had been declared, the Illuminati allowed people to communicate on the Social Media platform-slash-MMORPG you know as Base-Book. The mainstream media posted stories which became increasingly ridiculous. More people began to believe Alexis in place of common news. Now Alexis holds the population in her hand.¡± This caused Eden to taste bile. The United States was entering a state of consensual fascism. ¡°So... our first target will be Paradox News Station. Phase one - Opal will seduce and hypnotize the heads of physical and cyber security so we are able to access the building flawlessly. Hinata will be in charge of the creation of access portals. Densetsu will set up traps disguised as seemingly random objects. Eden... you must stay here.¡± Responding with roll of his eyes, Eden shrugged, ¡°Well, safe to say I need more training before...¡± ¡°No... I must adjust your glyph. You have shown promise, Eden Garter. I will allow you to access another dragon form as well as the Source Boost.¡± This caused Eden shock. Perhaps his actions with Hinata had moved Katrina, or perhaps he has become strong enough through training to gain new abilities. In either case, he was glad. The War Machine, part 1 ~Opal~ It was 7:30 PM; time to do what she did best. Shifting her body into that of the Chief of Cyber-Security¡¯s wife, she prepared herself to once again demonstrate her talents. Of course, that didn¡¯t mean she couldn¡¯t enjoy a delicious feast. After all, he was an enemy combatant. ¡°Dear... I¡¯m home from work!¡± Opal piped as she was teleported in front of the chestnut door. Before long, target appeared. A thin, green-eyed, slightly muscular man with long, blond hair clad in blue jeans and a red muscle shirt. She inwardly grinned as he approached. Approaching her, the man smiled. He quickly motioned to the narrow, tan-carpeted staircase. He then spoke, ¡°Do you want the normal treatment?¡± ¡°Oh, dear... I know you like to keep me at a low level of stress, but sometimes I feel like I don¡¯t do enough for you...,¡± Opal sighed, looking away with an expression of falsified guilt, ¡°I wanted to make you happy, so I... uhm... studied some books on... er... ¡®mystic tantra¡¯.¡± The target¡¯s emotional wavelength seemed to sink into slight shyness, but also excitement. The energy in his lower chakras seemed to spike. She was succeeding. The target swallowed, grasping his neck in nervousness. He clearly wanted to do this, but it was imperative not to come onto him too strongly, lest he catch onto her facade. Slowly turning towards the staircase, the target spoke, ¡°Do you really want this, Laya?¡± ¡°Yes... of course I do. You¡¯ve done so much for me, after all. It¡¯s the least I could have done for you,¡± Opal¡¯s spoke as she removed her Coconuts T-shirt, enticing her prey further. The target gulped again, motioning for her to follow him up the stairs. She obliged him,This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. She made her way through the olive-colored hall, the velvety texture of the scarlet carpet hitting her now-human feet as she disrobed. Soon, they reached the bedroom. As he laid upon the gray sheets, she joined him. She kissed him, mimicking the passion of his wife. She stroked his chest, moving down the length of his body as he released a groan. ¡°How am I doing?¡± Opal whispered the question into his ear as she touched his member, tenderly stroking it until it became erect. With a relaxed smile, the target spoke on a moan, ¡°So--- great...¡± Preparing for her signature Cowgirl style, Opal bent upon her knees, expertly rubbing every inch of her vulva against the tip of his member. His groans only verified that her tactic were working. She lowered herself until he was fully inside her, proceeding to ride him with the most proficient of movements. He barely lasted for more than three minutes before he climaxed inside her. Pathetic really. In any case, it was done. She released all restraint on herself, allowing her dark instincts to take hold. Her arms shot out as if they were made from rubber, her fingernails extending into his head, searching, clamoring for every single strap of information she would need. Passwords, key-codes, IP addresses, IDs, every piece of the puzzle needed to utterly demolish the Paradox New Station¡¯s cybernetic division. The target¡¯s body slowly lost color, then muscle, then fat, then moisture, finally becoming a dried husk of its former self. With a burst of hellfire, she burned the remains. A knock came from the door. It was his wife. Opal shifted into the form of the target as his wife entered the room. However, she barely had control. It was if she was on the inside looking out. Her body pulled the female into her grasp with dark telekinesis, ripping the clothes from her body. ¡®No... I have to stop!¡¯ She was doing it. She was doing the one thing she vowed to never do. She was raping an innocent woman to death. The screams, cries and sobs made it seem as if she was her own father as he tore apart her innocent, young insides as she begged him to stop. On the outside, she grinned in a sadistic manner fit for a demon. On the inside, she was wailing in terror and self-loathing. By the end of the event, she had absorbed not only the nutrients, but all of the innocent victim¡¯s physical matter. By the end of the event, she had recovered from her dark instincts. By the end of the event, she had broken down in tears. Delay

~Densetsu~

He had just received a call from his best friend. It finally happened. She finally lost control of her dark abilities and made a mistake. ¡°Dammit, I¡¯ll tell Katrina to do a Time-Freeze! Get back here ASAP and we¡¯ll figure out what to do from there,¡± Densetsu growled, teleporting to Opal¡¯s room. Of course, there she was within seconds. She had teleported onto the bed, fully nude. Her expression was like that of a broken orphan, the poor girl. ¡°Rape me, Densetsu...,¡± Opal sobbed, her shattered eyes meeting his, ¡°Fucking rape me NOW! Make me suffer for what I did!¡± He slowly climbed onto the bed with her, cradling her body in his arms as he sunk into thought, ¡®Shit... this messed her up more than I thought it would. What can I do? If I¡¯m blunt, then there¡¯s a good chance I¡¯ll make it worse. If I sugar-coat things, then she won¡¯t learn.¡¯The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. ¡°...Opal... you know I care about you way too much to even think of doing that,¡± Densetsu sighed as pulled her head into his chest, ¡°Besides, you¡¯re the only girl I¡¯ve ever been able to be vulnerable around. Last but not least, what would raping you do other than make you even more miserable?¡± He allowed Opal to release her feelings for what seemed to be hours. After she had finally recovered, she finally spoke, ¡°Why are you always coming to my rescue, you big oaf? Why are you always comforting me and treating me like I actually deserve love?¡± Heaving a sigh, he released her. If he were to say it, it would push her away. ¡°I dunno...,¡± Densetsu mumbled, crossing his arms as he laid upon the bed next to her. As she began to sob again, Opal sat upright at the edge of the bed, only to shout at him, ¡°YOU ALWAYS SAY THAT! Maybe I should find another team who will treat me like I deserve to be treated - like shit!¡± This caused something inside Densetsu to stretch to its breaking point. It was either tell the truth, or possibly lose her forever. ¡°Do you want to know the reason, you damn brainless slut!?¡± Densetsu bellowed upon sitting up, forcing her to turn to face him, ¡°It¡¯s because I care about you! It¡¯s because I actually care about in that way! Isn¡¯t that enough for you!?¡± The poor girl¡¯s expression became one of complete muted shock. She was comatose. Although he expected her to recover or speak, Densetsu¡¯s confession was met by a slap to his face, followed by the broken girl darting out of the room in tears. He had definitely screwed this one up. A Broken Mask

~Eden~ After hearing about Opal, he and Hinata had instantly teleported into her room. What he found shocked him. Densetsu was now face-down on the bed. Not only this, but... He couldn''t believe it. ''What the fuck? Is he crying?'' ¡°Get away from here you asshole love-birds." With a sigh, he approached the seemingly-egotistical kitsune, sitting upon the edge of the bed. He motioned for Hinata to join him. She obliged him, and without a single word, he shared a nod of silent understanding with her. He grasped Densetsu''s hand, Hinata the other. Although he attempted to growl, the kitsune only managed to sob the word, ¡°O-Opal..." He knew it. He knew Hinata knew it. ¡°I told Katrina to keep an eye on her..," Eden spoke, pulling Densetsu into an embrace. He patted his back, only to be shoved away. Hinata had taken over, grasping Densetsu''s body with all her might. He attempted to pull away, only for her to place her hand on his cheek as she spoke the words, ¡°Why didn''t you tell me, you big oaf?" This clearly struck a freshly-damaged portion of Densetsu''s psyche, as it triggered a further breakdown from him. However, this was also somewhat of a good thing. Perhaps this kitsune was far from as cold-hearted and narcissistic as the facade he put on. ¡°I-I wish that''s what she would have said..." Heaving a sigh, Eden contacted Katrina. Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings. <...The poor girl has been using sex as a substitute for love for her entire life. After years of seeing herself as nothing but a fuck-toy, do you expect her to react in any other way when someone offers to give her their heart instead of their cum? I mean, I hate to say it like that, but... Sorry, did I go too far?> Patting the Kitsune''s head, Eden spoke, ¡°She isn''t leaving. Who knows, maybe she''ll even come around and accept your feelings for her." Nodding, Densetsu raised his head to meet him, drying his eyes with his arm. He then released a groan. It was clear that he knew the proverbial masquerade was more than over. ¡°I guess I can''t hide it from you two anymore, can I?" Densetsu chucked to his face, an ironic smile on his muzzle. He then placed his hand upon his head, ¡°Dammit, and here I thought I could keep going with the bull-crap until I knew you better." Rolling his eyes, Eden nodded to Hinata. She returned the gesture. With this, they both wrapped their arms around Densetsu as Eden spoke the words, ¡°Group hug! The next one includes your girl Opal!" "Dammit, you two! Really?" At Densetsu''s words, a knowing grin formed on Hinata''s muzzle as she spoke, ¡°Come on, you big-hearted oaf! Stop fighting and surrender to it!" ¡°Okay, okay!" Densetsu chuckled, pulling at Eden''s shirt, forcing each of them to fall upon the sheets in a heap, ¡°Anyway... the whole ''Time-Freeze'' thing has a two-week minimum. How about we plan on a few more team get-togethers once Opal gets back? Y''know... since we barely know each other?" As he and Hinata released the kitsune, Eden grinned, ¡°Fair enough." 12:52 PM, September 17, 2002 Dear journal... seven days ago I found out Densetsu has put up a Jerkass Facade this entire time. ...Also, Hinata, fuck you for showing me that damn TV Tropes website. Now I''m starting to apply it to real life because of my damn over-active imagination. I spent about five days getting to know Densetsu. He''s cool. He''s grown on me so much that I kind of see him like a little... er... big brother? How old is he in human years? Ugh, never mind. On the subject of Densetsu, he''s going to have a big character judgement when Opal comes back tomorrow. And for everyone watching - for the sake of your own sanity, do NOT visit that Dark Web video site ¡°Furry Friendships". It''s basically the Furry Force by CollegeHumor on roids. Also, fuck Densetsu for showing me that damn rip-off character ¡°Slain-Basin". He''s worse than the character he''s based on ever was with the damn fourth wall breaks and references. I''m still trying to wean off copying that one. THIS IS WHY I DON''T WATCH TELEVISION. Do You Still Want Me?

~Opal~ 1:04 AM, September 8, 2002 ''You poor idiot... you don''t know what I really look like. If you did, you would re-think this whole thing. The worst part is, I can''t control my body the way I normally can when I''m in this form. But... then again, maybe you won''t care.'' She stood in her mirror gazing at her true visage. The dark indigo veins which ran down her pink, fleshy body pulsed in anxiety from what was to transpire. ''I''m not a succubus dragoness, Densetsu... I was only given a heavy gene implant from Katrina so I could regenerate from the injuries my reproductive organs sustained under my father. But then again... if ''it'' happens, then... we might truly be meant for each other.'' Her scrawny, spindly four legs shuddered as she turned to exit the door, taking one last look at the ten pulsating bulges in her back and the swollen faux-pustule in the middle. The worst aspect of her true body was that she had neglected to nurture it due to repressed memories. As such, she had suffered what dragons of her world knew as malnutrition-induced dwarfism. She was barely more than four feet long, whereas Hinata''s feral form was at least six and a half. Densetsu always said he wanted a ''strong bride'', and she hardly fit that category. She saw him resting on his bed. His eyes were half-closed. It was the moment of truth. She sighed, climbing upon his bed. She placed her wrinkly, slimy paw upon his chest as she spoke, "Densetsu... I''m back. It''s Opal." At this, Densetsu looked to her. His eyes widened in surprise. His hand landed on his chest as he let out a scream, his words visibly filled with fear, "W-what are you!? Why are you pretending you''re-" "I KNEW YOU WOULD ACT LIKE THIS!!! What happened to all the ''I will be your guardian fox-spirit no matter what'' and ''I will never judge you no matter how many times you pop your little cherry-blossom on missions''!? HUH!?" Opal turned away after her words, storming towards the control panel. She began to access the Permissions button, only to have Densestu pull her backwards using telekinesis, wrapping his arms around her tiny body.This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. Her body shuddered as Densetsu whispered into her ears, "So it really is you... and this is what Katrina told me about being prepared for the shock of my life." He released a soft laugh at his next words, "And here I thought I would be taking care of a kid that wasn''t mine. I can say right now that this is a much better surprise than hearing that you got knocked up by your target." Upon her release, she turned around, looking into his gentle, loving eyes. She had never seen him act this way before. He didn''t care? He didn''t care at all? "Why do you still want me after finding out that I''m the most disgusting specie of Kaiju dragon?" Opal whispered, placing her head in his lap, "And besides, I''m weak... dwarfed. My body is a wreck. You wanted a strong bride, remember?" He stroked her head, running his hand down her entire body until he reached the top of her tail. He pulled her onto his chest, a romantically sly smile on his face, "I found one. She hasn''t broken, even with all she''s been put through. That''s what I meant by strong, you lovely little parakeet." This caused Opal''s jaw to drop. Every one of her insecurities seemed to shatter as if they were the most fragile of glass. Everything he said was the complete truth. He was her life-mate. She was certain. "For the first time, I want it to mean something..." Opal whispered the words as she untied the rope Densetsu''s pants. This caused him to swallow in nervousness. Clearly he had never been intimate with a woman, despite the "private collection" he had shared with her on more than one occasion. With a nod, Densetsu disrobed. She took notice of his powerful legs, which she had never seen before. His scrotum was a decent size as well. Not too large, but large enough to reveal the fact that he had quite a sizeable amount of testosterone. His sheath made it obvious that he was at least above average in his penis size, as well. With a loving smile, she moved towards his sheath, licking it. He released a groan as the pink, tubular organ began to reveal itself. She climbed atop his form, slowly moving her hind legs until she felt the tip of his member upon her entrance. This was the moment of truth. Breathing deeply, Opal took few moments to herself for mental preparation. Her succubus form had a hymen which she only re-built when missions dictated it to be necessary due to the pain it caused every time it was broken. However, this was different. This form was her true form. This form was her virgin form. This form was her inexperienced form. This form was the form which carried something no other had. This form was the form which housed the bonding wall, the very essence of mateship. I Still Want Her

~Densetsu~ He knew what her anxiousness meant. He knew what he had to do. He slowly looked into the now-pure-brown, bulbous eyes of his mate to be. He stroked those lovely, whisker-shaped ears of hers. He ran his hand down her slick, slimy gray underbelly. He wrapped his bushy three tails around the slug-esque protrusion attached to her back, whatever it was. He took the slick, crustacean-shaped forepaws of his mate, taking the most genuine of care as if he were touching one of the molted crabs which they resembled. He didn''t care what she looked like. She was going to be his, and he welcomed every odd aspect about her body. The love of his life slowly lowed herself onto him. As he entered her, the sensation of her insides sent him into a state of pure bliss. It was different than he expected, lined with what seemed to be miniature suction cups and coated in an amount of pleasantly-warm slime that would put a hagfish to shame. If felt alien, but also incredibly delightful. The odd, vein-covered breasts attached to her inner theighs were soft and smooth beyond measure, only heightening his euphoria. "Hot damn, Opal... I can say without a doubt that all the flak Kaiju dragons get about being disgusting is absolute horse-crap..." Densetsu whispered into ear, stroking her neck, "If this is how sex feels with one, I would say they''re blessed with the best bodies of all." Although seemingly shocked, Opal smiled warmly, her words filled with love, "I think it''s a matter of preference, but I guess it''s to be expected after all you''ve seen." Her neck extended, seemingly becoming a tendril as she leaned in to kiss him, extending multiple thin, semi-viscous tongues into his mouth. He entwined his own with whichever of them he could manage, his taste buds indulging the bitter, sweet and sour flavors of blood orange, sage and wild rose. ''This must be what Opal''s true pheromone is.'' The exotic mechanisms of her body were driving him insane with lust. He heard Opal hiss in pain as his organ began to touch the multiple thick folds of tissue which made up her barrier. He knew it was best to get this over quickly, and as such, he used telekinesis to place her hands behind his back.If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. "Dig your claws into me as deep as you need to." "Y-you... really are a big, sweet lug..." After a nod, it began. He held Opal''s front shoulders as she forced herself down upon him with what little strength she could muster. She let out a howl of agony while the tissues burst around him, releasing the gelatinous union ichor upon him. The alkaline substance seemed somewhat searing against his sensitive, exposed flesh. He wasn''t a dragon, and therefore didn''t have the protections that they had against the bonding chemicals contained within. Not to mention the talons which penetrated his back. He didn''t care. He would bear the pain for Opal. He stayed inside her for a few minutes, allowing him and herself to adjust to the changes taking place inside their bodies. Eventually, the pain had subsided on his part, as well as Opal''s. "Are you okay, love?" Opal let out a groan, her back trembling. Densetsu knew what was coming. Cerulean slime covered the bed as Opal''s periwinkle-colored, semi-opaque tentacles burst from her back, a deep growl emitting from her throat. Once the central squid-styled appendage had been released, she seemed to emit a sigh of relief. She then looked to him with a seductive grin, "You wanted to be in a real hentai, right?" He gulped. What was she planning? As she pulled her body from him, multiple suctions filled his ears and wreaked his lower body with odd sensations. Apparently his anatomy was unable to keep itself locked inside Opal. Before he could object, Opal thrust her center tentacle down upon his exposed member. He felt another series of ruptured tissues as Opal growled in pain. ''Wait... do Kaiju dragons have a second reproductive system? Damn, either way, this feels even better!'' While Opal began to lay upon his body in the style of a cat, her protrusion began to palpitate backwards, almost as if it was intent on forcing him to climax as soon as possible. It was impossible for him to last much longer. "...Is this everything you hoped it would be?" Opal sighed the words into his earlobe as she entwined her neck around his upper body, "Or is it better?" It was better. No, it was more than better. With a lubricous grin, Densetsu felt his entire body shudder. He nuzzled her, his voice a groaning whisper, "Far more than I imagined... and I don''t know if I can last much longer." "I didn''t expect anything else..." Opal spoke with a content smile, gigging at her next words, "But you know... if it weren''t for the medication I bought from the guild shop, I would probably be acting a lot crazier. I may look calm, but in reality my body is drunk on its own hormones. The only thing that''s not getting held back is my oxytocin." For the first time in years, he gave in to his more feral instincts, releasing a loud, whining purr in the style of a fox as he felt it end. He could barely keep his eyes open. He was completely drained. Not by succubus abilities, but by the shock and intensity of the situation. His physical stamina was at its peak, but his most of his mental stamina had been spent. The last thing he felt and heard was Opal''s embrace and the words, "Thank you for saving me from myself..." Second Delay

~Hinata~ This was quite the predicament. Katrina had called her the morning after her cousin mated with Densetsu, and the news was quite dire. The Temporal Rift Protocol would need to be extended for quite a while longer at this rate, and even expanded into the base for duration of their campaign. Within ten minutes, Opal had arrived in the meeting room with her and Eden. Hinata had never expected Opal to stay in her true form in public, but she was also glad for her. At the same time, she was disappointed in her. "Ugh... what''s up, Trina?" Densetsu yawned the words, possibly unaware that he was still in his loincloth. This oaf clearly had no idea what he was in for. With a huff of annoyance, Hinata crossed her arms, looking to Katrina, "Should I be the one to tell them?" "...Densetsu... Opal... what were you thinking!?" Katrina bellowed, her stance one of a Drill Sargeant as she approached the two. Hinata had never seen Katrina like this. All of her intellectual, complex speaking patterns as well as her melodic voice had been replaced by a chastising leader with dark, reverberating echoes for words.This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source. Opal was clearly fearful, as she had hidden behind her now-mate as if she were a weak-willed child who had stolen from the candy drawer at school. Densetsu was somewhat more stoic, but Hinata could sense his terror from where she stood. She knew Eden could as well, as his eyes had widened in surprise and his hand was clutched against his chest. With a sigh, Hinata spoke, "Guildmaster, I know they made a mistake but..." "No buts! Opal, you just... you''re...." Katrina groaned the words, grasping her face in what was likely stress-induced exhasperation, "Densetsu, you knocked her up last night!" A thud resounded in Hinata''s earlobes as Opal hit the floor. Densetsu wobbled, but kept his composure enough to mutter out, "Wait, what...? Oh, dammit, the pheromones meant...!" "Yes, it meant she was in season, you dolt! And the medication Opal bought was hormone-control, not a contraceptive!" Katrina continued her tirade, grasping Densetsu''s neck fur, "Do you have any idea how much of our funds it will take for the technology to keep her alive with the condition her body is in!?" At this moment, Hinata could sense the entire room fill with scent and sensation of pure worry and dread. Densetsu was speechless. For the first time, she had seen him completely overtaken by his fear. Dropping Densetsu to the floor, Katrina turned to her with an expression of pleading. The melodic tone slowly returned as she spoke, "Hinata... if it is not too much to ask, could you bring Eden to the Side-Mission Hall? We are in need of money..." Eden took her hand, flashing his usual warm smile. Drawing her into a hug, he then spoke, "We''ll do all we can to help those two, right Hinata?" "Yes, of course..." Feelings and Side-Work 10:24 AM September 10, 2002 ~Eden~ The jobs were quite simplistic. However, there was one that caught Eden''s eye, and it paid somewhat more handsomely than the others. He supposed this would be a good at time as any to demonstrate his talents to Hinata. Freelance Wedding Singer. "Hey... I''m taking this one," Eden spoke with a grin as he pressed the green-tinted, Accept button, "You haven''t heard me sing yet, have you?" Shaking her head, Hinata looked to him, pressing the button next to his, "No... I haven''t. And if that''s the case, then I suppose I''ll choose the janitorial services at the same wedding." She turned her head downwards, folding her arms across her chest, "I think my rifts will do a good job at taking care of the trash." "You know I can tell when something is bothering you by now, love," Eden sighed, placing his arms around Hinata''s neck, pulling her into an embrace, "What''s on your mind?" In response, Hinata wrapped her arms around his waist, her words a whimper, "I''m scared for her. I''ve always been scared of what would happen if she were to become gravid in that form. She could die, Eden! She could die because of so many reasons!" "We talked about this last night, remember? Katrina said she''s bound to be fine as long as we get enough money to cover the medical expenses. And you know I can tell when there''s something else going on...," Eden whispered, rubbing Hinata''s back with tender care, "You can tell me anything, you know." Hinata''s arms fell to the side as she buried her head into his chest, "...Fine. I... I regret dating you. Not for my sake. I feel closer to you than I have anyone in my entire life. I regret it for your sake." "Why...?" Eden cooed, placing his hand on her chin, lifting her head up to meet his, gazing into her dampened eyes, "You''re such an amazing woman. Why would you ever think you don''t deserve me?" With a sigh, Hinata closed her eyes, an ironic smile forming on her face, "It''s not that. I know I deserve you. I regret it because I can''t have a child... ever. I regret it because I won''t be able to satisfy you sexually. I know you love me, and I love you. I''m just afraid the tension between us may become too much." "I promise it will never come down to that." Eden smiled warmly at his words, placing his forehead to Hinata''s crest, "I love you for you. Sure, you may have a little bit of damage, and you may be terrified of sex. But I''m sure we can make it work. I don''t care how long it takes for you to be ready or how sickly your cat is. After all, sex is an expression of love, not love in of itself." It worked. Hinata''s formerly-ironic smile had become one of joy. She opened her eyes, her tears falling again as she spoke, "You have a way with words, you know." "People have told me that," Eden spoke as he took Hinata''s hand, "But I''m more of a therapist than a public speaker." He placed his other hand upon her head as a wry grin formed on his face, "I mean, I could have probably blown Jake Tommy out of the water during the whole video game scare. I just didn''t see any reason to bust his balls so hard that he turned into a woman. After all, a religious nut like him would probably kill himself after being forced to become a transvestite." The jest caused Hinata to snicker. She began to stare into his eyes. For the first time, he was sharing a gaze of romantic longing with her. Without warning, she thrust her muzzle towards his lips, stealing a kiss from him. This shocked him, as he was merely attempting to cheer her up. He never expected such a reaction as this. Her delicious saliva tasted of wild flowers and honey. Although the kiss lasted for no more than a second, it was the most incredible kiss he has ever experienced. His eyes widened at the flavor and intense waves of energy which flowed through his body. "Wow..." This was all he could muster.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road. He could see the pink scales on Hinata''s face shift to a shade of light indigo as she began a fit of nervous laughter, "Y-yeah. I-I don''t know what came over me." She turned away, folding her arms around her body, "W-well... s-see you at the party!" Before he could ask a single question, Hinata had disappeared through a spacial rift. Although confused, Eden could also understand why she reacted the way she did. She had likely never displayed true feelings toward anyone before, or at least in a physical sense. Even so much as kissing was certain to be completely alien to her, and her inexperience in such a thing was obvious. ''You deserved better than the hand you were dealt in life, Hinata-chan. ...But at least you''re finally coming out of your shell.'' Later that night, Eden had arrived at the party dressed in a fancy blue 1950s suit, white bow tie, black disco shoes and a golden cape. It was more to stand out than anything else, but his random sense of humor also played a part in the decision. Stepping up the oaken stage, Eden grinned, "How does everybody like my whacky suit? I heard it was casual dress, but casual can also mean spontaneous. So I thought, ''How can I look like the most unceremonious person of everyone here?'' Well, here''s you answer!" Most of the audience responded with soft giggles, some with groans and a few with hysterical laughter. He clearly had made an impression. "Hey, Katrina - put on the music! Karaoke of Sonata Arctica''s ''White Pearl, Black Oceans''!" The odd, spiky-green-haired groom known as Kenji and the busty, pink-haired girl known as Sakura were currently on the dance floor. Albeit in the middle of a ballad, however inappropriate the song was for such a thing. The entire crowd seemed to be mesmerized by Eden''s soft, slightly deep voice. He had never had such a large crowd before, and although this inspired him, he had to admit his nervousness. Even so, he managed to power through the entire song with barely a missed note. By the end of it, he received a mammoth round of applause. "Damn... this guy''s a badass!" Kenji spoke as he approached Eden, a smirk on his face, "And here I thought your Bishounen hairdo said everything about your voice! What''s your name, kid?" With a smirk, Eden gave a thumbs up, "It''s Eden Hikaru Garter. Half Japanese, Half Hawaiian. Oh, and my girlfriend Hinata Dyne is your janitor. She''s using spacial manipulation to toss any garbage away the moment it hits the floor. Can we give her a spotlight please?" Snapping his fingers, the groom known as Kenji motioned to the crew. The spotlight then moved to the bubbly Hinata, who was currently dining on soda and cookies. She turned to him, her expression becoming shy as she formed a peace sign with her hands. "Hey...," Kenji spoke as he grabbed the mic from Eden''s hands, reaching out towards him, "Eden, I have to say I admire you a hell of a lot. Not many guys I''ve seen would even think of dating a former Resurgent Girl from one of ''those'' worlds." The entire audience fell silent. They looked to Eden with shock. This caused incredible discomfort for Eden. He could only mutter out, "Uh... surprise?" "Hey... everyone? I have to talk to you all outside after the wedding," Kenji spoke, reaching out to Eden, extending his smallest finger, "And let''s promise to meet up again sometime, mister trooper. What should we seal the deal with? A pinky swear or a fist-bump?" Nodding, Eden accepted the gesture, pressing his fist against Kenji''s, "Fist bump. And I''m looking forward to it." "Anyway, let''s continue with the party. This guy has done his share of work for now," Kenji spoke with a grin, "Don''t worry about the janitor. I''ll take care of the trash for everyone." 12:29 AM September 11, 2002 Dear journal... I''m scared for Hinata. She''s been inside the bathroom staring blankly at the locked chest she got from Sakura all night. It''s starting to worry me. Opal told me she was just thinking, but... I dunno. I hope she''s going to be okay. When I thought she was dealt a bad hand in life... I didn''t know the half of it. If Hinata and Opal lived in a corrupted world classified as a ''Misandrist Dystopia'', then why did she look like that? What happened to her? Opal even went so far as to say it was her father who mutilated Hinata! They''re cousins? Dammit.. what am I missing? What have they hidden from me? And why did they hide it for so long? [End of Act II]