As late afternoon approached, Ray prepared to leave.

In truth, there was very little to prepare. Everything he needed was safely stored in the otherworldly storage space. And if things turned violent, killing ordinary people was trivial—his spatial portal and spatial severing were more than sufficient.

Of course, Ray never underestimated anyone.

"Take good care of the house while I'm gone," he said.

"Be careful."

"Stay safe."

"I'll wear my new stockings when you come back."

The women all