Back safe

You count yourself lucky that there was just a skeleton crew at the warehouse, and that Elys didn’t have her breakdown until after using her power. The ride back to the AWIO is uneventful, despite the goblin girl clinging to you. Her tears finally stop as Anna parks, but she continues to hold you, looking around, wide eyed.

“W-what is this place?”

“This is the Arrival Center of the AWIO. Dont you recognize it? I’m pretty sure this is where all monster girls show up at first.”

She shakes her head, “I w-was **** through a portal and caged immediately. Those people said I was to be used as a catalyst for s-something with another portal.”

“We need to tell Rachel about this. Don’t worry, you’re safe now. What’s your name, anyway?”

“I-it’s Lynn. T-thank you for not leaving me. Most humans would j-just ignore a goblin...”

You gently stroke her hair, as you carry her into the building. The rest of the girls follow, with Maya chattering excitedly at a very subdued looking Elys. Rachel is there to greet you as you enter.

“You made it safe! I’m so glad! And who is this? I don’t recall seeing a goblin here recently.”

“This is Lynn, she was a captive as well, but apparently she was sent through a different portal. She’s scared, the only people other than us she knows on this side wanted her for some kind of experiment. Something called a catalyst for another portal.”

Rachel’s eyes go wide, “They’re trying to make the portal two way. It’s the only thing that makes sense. Goblins can enhance the abilities of a spell caster. Lynn, don’t worry, we can protect you.”

Lynn clings to you harder, shaking her head. “I want to stay with him. He’s m-my savior. I t-trust him...”

Rachel smiles and nods, “Honestly, you’re probably safest with Josh. Plus, just being around you will empower him. Fine, Josh, will you take in Lynn?”

“Of course I will. Lynn, can you let go please? I need to talk to Elys.”

Reluctantly, Lynn releases you, but stays close as you approach the nervous looking gorgon.

“Elys, are you going to be ok?”

She nods, taking a deep breath. “I’m sssorry I broke down. Itsss hard, usssing my powersss like that. Even though they were enemiesss, it hurtsss to end a life.”

You gently kiss her cheek, “It’s good you feel like that. If you become a callous killer, that’s much worse. I know you had to do it, and I’m sorry I put you in that position.”

You hug each other, and you’re glad to see her smile start to return. Rachel smiles and says, “Well, I think you’ve all earned a little rest. Why don’t you head home, we can talk tomorrow.”

You nod, and look at your girls. “Let’s go, ladies. And be nice to Lynn, she’s had it rough.”