DeadRealm75 – T.U.S: Life Will Continue Without You – Chapter 2: Growing up. Part 1/2

Time: Midday

Alex's mind: Hehe. She can be cute when she wants to.

Alex: Eliot, or should I say father?

I said with a shaky smile. The guilt was slowly eating at me. But decided to open up my arms to give him an opportunity. Soon, I will no longer feel the connection that Maxwell had inside me.

He was slightly hesitant...

Alex: Come on. If you do not want to, then don't. But, you might regret it later.

My words confused Eliot.

Alex: Do not question it, I will tell you why later.

He nodded and I let Maxwell do the hugging.

Although conscious, I could also feel the hug. It was a clinging one, it felt desperate. He grasped Eliot's shirt with a lot of force. I felt tears running down my/his face, Maxwell stayed in Eliot's chest. Slowly trembling, Maxwell sobbing became louder.

Eliot returned the hug the same way Maxwell did. I also got affected. Even if I'm not supposed to, I felt the pain Maxwell felt. I do not know how long that hug lasted. But I noticed that Eliot seemed more in peace. Like his worries faded away. We start to separate.

Playlist: ESCAPE - Emotional & Dramatic Music Mix | Sad & Beautiful Instrumental Music

Time stamp for song while reading in video: Silhouettes - 51:59

Alex: I have something to tell you both. Please sit at the table.

I knew what they expressions would be, so I entered and lifted my self up of the counter.

I took a big breath in, once they sited down.

Alex: This is about Maxwell...

Before anyone of them interrupted me, I continued.

Alex: I was able to communicate with him, but...

I lifted my hand in a stopping motion.

Alex's mind: If they hate me, they hate me. If they want me gone, then I will be gone... I don't deserve Maxwell's life at all.

I clenched the edge of the counter and closed my eyes.

Alex: Maxwell is leaving his body to me...

Silence, the only thing that greeted me, was silence. Not a word, not a sound, nothing. I kept my eyes closed.

Alex: This means his soul... will no longer be tied to me.

Alex: I can understand if both of you are angry at me, or just hate me. I'm planning on leaving soon...

Alex's mind: If Eliot doesn't give me time, I will leave today. I will just grab some clothing and leave.

Time passed without me knowing or hearing anything. It started to worry me. No sign of... anything, really. No sobbing, no yelling, no sniffles, not even steps or ruffles. Silence stayed on the room with my eyes still closed.

Alex: Is there anything you... needed to say to me?

I said slightly worried since this silence was making me uncomfortable.

Levy and Eliot both were completely silent...

I decided to open my eyes, since I guess they were waiting for me to open them.

The first thing that called my attention was the small figure of light in front of me. It was... Maxwell. Clear, transparent with light shinning outwards of his body. This light illuminated the room with what I would call gentle. But his figure was not what I expected.

Although shining, the composition was similar to a fire. Lines like flames moving outwards dancing, like if there was wind. Swaying from left to right. Some removing themselves from his body. Blueish colors illuminated the room.

I was in complete awe, stunned by how... Interesting his figure was. Something in me stirred and made me stand up. But... Maxwell's body did not follow me. I was out of the body, standing like he was, with the same features. I gasp and turn around, the body had its eyes closed. Smiles spreading across Maxwell's body and him. He was looking at me.

I was uncomfortable, my figure was not fair... or better said fit. Like I said before, I'm chubby, not fit. Actually, I never described myself. Well... here it goes. My body, although I was chubby, I'm capable of doing exercises. Not everyone expected me to be able to play a game about dancing for almost 24 hours.

I once played a game called Just Dance, It hooked me in. I played three days straight, of course I took eating and sleeping. Necessities were always in check. I was climbing to the top three positions, but managed to stay second place in the world dance floor. It was the two thousand and eighteen version.

On other places, we call this as if we are just a little overfill. Or... "rellenitos" (Filled or stuffed). It is a bit funny now that I think about it. My eyes I was told they were brown, black hair, curly natural. But I always cut my hair and tried multiple styles, fighting back those curls.

For my body... I had a belly, I honestly learned to just be happy with it. No use getting worked over it. Sometimes I will have it big, other times, due to playing active games. It would return to a minimal tummy, enough to see... you know. *Cough*. I could not describe myself without help.

It is embarrassing that even my mother said I had thick thighs. My chest was similar to any man with fat, I heard they call them men's boobs. Can't complain, is half right. Like I said before too. I love biology, and one thing is that we pass through the female stage before becoming males, as a gender. We all are, just our preferences, likes and almost everything is left to us.

That is something I learned through life.

While watching Maxwell I noticed something, we exist as genderless. No genitalia, standing in the middle of the room. No clothing followed us, just the figure of our souls. I saw Eliot and Levy just watching...

Their expressions were shocked, I sensed fear on Eliot's side. I sensed content on both, mostly. I had a hunch that Levy was more thrilled, because of her tail wagging in an interesting way and her ears standing. I tried to talk, but my voice did not come out.

Maxwell shook his head in denial. And waved goodbye to them both. His body or soul slowly removed itself. As if the wind took those flames to the cosmos. It started from the head all the way down to his feet. Until nothing was left. Just as Maxwell said, Eliot had tears in his eyes, but only his right eye had tears flowing downwards. Left one was... Empty? Levy was crying normally, it stings, to watch her like that.

I returned to sit in the same place as Maxwell's body was. When I did, a deep breath was made without my consent. It made me panic a bit. Like if I was holding my breath out, not letting air in. Scary.

Alex's mind: What would both of them do now?

Alex: Do... you both understand why...

I trailed off. Feeling fear, mostly from Eliot.

My mind made multiple scenarios of what Eliot could do... After all, he was... possessed by a shadow creature. Unconsciously, my left hand lifted and grabbed my birthstone though my clothing. I clenched my hands around it.

Alex: E-Eliot... are you...

My left hand let go of my birthstone when I felt fur. It was the small fox looking at me. By looking at its eyes, I could get... curiosity from the animal. Like wanting to ask about something.

I reached inside my shirt and pulled out my birthstone. This time, it was blinking from white to black. I looked back at Eliot.

Alex: Can... you tell me what are you feeling, Eliot?

I knew that something about feelings had to do with the shadow creature, but I did not know exactly what.

Alex: Please... I need to know.

His face was looking at the ground. I noticed his body shaking, I could not sense any emotion. My sensing of emotions was pretty good, and this made me fear him. Emotions have an aura for me. Not visibly, but by "gut" feeling. It is hard to explain, but basically it allowed me to understand people better.

I had it since I was young, but at the same time. It was trouble some. Since I would get the emotions of everyone. I do not believe it is a paranormal ability, it is more like a feeling. *Sighs*. I really do not know how to explain this thing.

I do not know what it was, but this time I was filled with fear... I was in a defensive feeling, trying to prepare for anything. My birthstone was blinking, warning me... Something told me if I did not talk to Eliot. Something will happen.

Alex: E-Eliot?

No response.

Alex: Eliot, please, you are scaring me.

I flinch when I hear a big sigh. I continue to watch my birthstone, it's flashing was increasing. This time I referred to him differently.

Alex: F-father?

I asked shaking.

Fear that was a long time never felt. The last time I felt fear was when they left me. My parents... That fear was the strongest I ever felt. Now... this one is the worst. It's making me shake. My body was trembling, I started to sweat... My legs started to give up, I used the counter to hold myself up.

My hands became shaky again, I stumble back to the floor. Eliot stands up and was... walking towards me. I scooted back, my reaction seemed illogical. My fear was overpowering and controlling my body. My mind was sent in a panic.

I could not think of anything, how to move, where to go. Should I evade an attack? Or is he trying to intimidate me? Was I wrong in doing this? Where should I go? Where do I run?... I closed my eyes, accepting what ever he would do. My hands were up, wanting not getting hit if it was in my face. Tears rolled down my cheeks. I did not understand what was going on with Eliot.

Then... I was... Embraced. It took me a while to register that in my mind. I was shocked since I felt that he would lose control again. My birthstone was blinking... but I could no longer check. I did not need to, since it was shining... a white color illuminated from it.

My body stopped its trembling and the edgy feeling slowly dissipated. I was left dumbfounded...

Eliot: I am... Sorry... Alex...

Alex's mind: Why are you saying you are sorry?

Eliot: I am sorry, I thought that you would lie to me.

Eliot: I was proved wrong. I... I let my emotions get the better of me.

Eliot: Sorry for... making you feel this...

Eliot: I am so sorry for everything I have done wrong.

I do not know why, but this made me happy. Happy that he cared about me. Besides taking Maxwell's body, he also worried about me. Even though I was happy, I had to ask.

Alex: But why do you worry about me?

Eliot: Is it not obvious? You had to endure something worse...

Eliot: Alex, I do not know what you have been through besides dying. But...

Eliot: I can also tell that you do not want to lie to us.

Eliot: You told us about yourself. About how you got here. And what you knew.

I could only guess, but I suspect that Levy told what I said at night. For once, I was grateful she told him. In the other hand, I was kinda disappointed since it was something personal.

Eliot: Can you forgive this old man?

Alex's mind: Jeez... I would say if he is old... The hell? He looks young, too young to be honest.

It brought a dumb smile to my face, I returned the hug.

Alex: Sure, sure. I forgive you.

His embrace was the warmest feeling I had felt in the longest time. It might have been years since I received a hug from my own parents. And this, this was the closest I could ever get to them. This made me start crying, happiness surrounded me. I was beaming with happiness...

Time passes.

After our outburst of emotional union, I started to discuss my plan of leaving with them. More specifically with Levy if she wanted to.

Alex: I was serious, if Eliot... sorry, father doesn't want me here.

Alex: I will leave tomorrow, I will just prepare some necessities.

Eliot seemed, to have a bittersweet look in his face. Like a smile that showed pain.

Levy: I do not believe you need to leave yet.

I turned to see Levy, I completely forgot she was here.

Alex: What do you mean?

She just nodded her face to Eliot.

Eliot: Yes, you do not need to do that yet. I... I can help you with it, but first...

Eliot: We need to help you with training. I have yet to see you fight. The monsters outside will be merciless, it is better to be prepared.

He said with a prideful voice. Eliot a warrior?

Since I never held a sword, neither attacked nor caused harm to any kind of animal, it was worrying me.

Alex: I guess I do not have a choice on that matter.

I said with a sheepish smile.

Discussion pursued and we continued talking. Many things were discussed, mainly about what I would do until I reach 18-years-old. My training sessions and what chores I would be doing from now on. I also told them many stories about the place I lived.

What it was like, what we used, what other ways we communicated. Everything... Mostly made in simple term since I know they would not know what Internet or instant messages would be. Levy loved my stories that I read from my home world, I would tell her. Most of the anime I watched became stories for her. Sometimes she would cry at them.

- A year passed, flying with colors. I was enjoying my stay and started to adapt to my somewhat new normal life. Spell casting was not practiced, since they had no idea of anything about it. My little fox, which I named, Nayoko. Was jumping happily, Eliot asked about it, I told with truth what had happened.

I asked if he knew that Maxwell became friends with a wild fox like this one. He denied and wanted to know. I told what I knew from Maxwell memories, and told him if he could give me a book and something to write with, I would write a book for him.

Putting Maxwell memories into something he could hold on to. I got around three premade books and started writing slowly. I put all his happy and sad moments, his worries, his secrets but only the ones that did not reveal a lot. Let me say that Maxwell might look like an angel, but he had seen stuff... Mostly he had or well I noticed he was bisexual.

Both men and women attracted him. He tried to hide the other side, the one that would always go for men. But I can notice that Aiden, Samuel and Lucas knew about it. Mostly Lucas took my attention, his way of acting was kinda open. He once managed to see Maxwell naked. Not only me, but also Maxwell noticed Lucas bulge throb a bit... awkward.

After that incident, Maxwell would become more reserved... He would clean himself really late at night to hide his presence. Other times, Lucas would surround him, grinding himself into Maxwell. But Maxwell never noticed... strangely. Lucas was sad to leave Maxwell... But both me and Maxwell sighed when that happened.

Peace finally was the feeling I got from that memory. Once I finished the books, I started to play more with Nayoko. I learned that it was a spirit fox, or I guess it is a spirit fox. He controlled fire and water. Which it made me beam with excitement, it was like having a pocket monster. Without its pocket ball.

- Another year passed by with fun. I adjusted completely, I changed my attire to suit myself. Maxwell's hair is a bit hard to tame. I managed to smooth it a bit, and it looks better than before. My clothing changed, I decided with a clothing that would help me with mobility.

It was not a choice, since Eliot gave it to me out of nowhere. It was my fourteen birthday, and he gave me an outfit. This outfit was fitted more for an archer. It was useful, but I wished another kind of outfit. A long leather coat with gloves and a belt with a silver buckle was given to me. For the inside clothing he gave me a pair of shoes, black pants and a black shirt.

(Maxwell's Young stage. Picture by Goku Revolucion. Made from RPG Maker MV.)

Not only that, but also my wings changed color from white to a yellow, warming color. I thought it was because of grime, but it was not. Levy left in the fifth month later, she was summoned by the royal palace in Ashborne Erast. I also learned that months are not labeled, they used the number of the month.

During this year, my chores expanded to helping the INN with some ingredients and hunting. Mostly getting fresh meat, monster materials for the Item shop. I started buying books from the item shop and got Information of new stuff.

First off, the way that the continent is divided. The leader capital of the continent is located in Ashborne Erast. The beastman population is similar to the human population. Around 40% composes of multiple species, including Beastman species. The species referred to Beastman are the Beast fallen and Kimonos.

Both have become generalized, and get more discriminated by human society. Beast fallen people are actual people beings. According to one of the books, a curse had fallen to the human race, creating the beings known as Beast fallen. Humans with a direct fusion of both human soul and animal soul.

The curse is said to be created by a talented mage. This hero or... Like the books said, degenerate. Fused human souls with animals, creating Beast fallen. The story is a bit confusing since there are no records nor concrete information to say it is true.

The person who is based is said to be a royal mage, and wanting to... Mate animals. Yep, we are talking intimate relations with animals... I wish I did not read the book. It was quite graphical. Even if it was with words. In short, Beast fallen have a curse. Because is linked to history, around the age 820 a war between both humans and Beast fallen broke. This was for personal rights to Beast fallen.

"Age 820, It's when the war started. First was the rights of beast fallen. Due to mayor problems with the new species that Beast fallen created and a new kind of living people.

It was a gory mess of many people killing Beast fallen and dealing with the new kind of species. Sadly, Beast fallen not only were cursed, but the curse itself was also on others.

It is both a blessing and a curse for the world, except on the continent of Estelia. Estelia became a continent that tried to adapt to the sudden change and surge of Beast fallen in the world. On other continents there was no fight for their rights, yet Estelia as a Continent and its kingdoms knew what to expect for a new change in life.

Bringing more people to work places. Here is where it all changed. Their rights are similar to humans with a few exceptions. They are free to choose to leave their families, live alone or continue with their families. This changed the way of how normally "Age of Coming" was seen in the new age.

Now becoming a new tradition for even normal humans and other species to have set free and search for a job and work before their adulthood or just plain freedom. Also, there are now sets of work specialized for their species. Meaning now they have a set job once they want to work... Sadly for them, the jobs sometimes weren't the good ones or the ones they wanted."

Actively, the business that many Beast fallen can take are limited. Farming, mail delivery, package deliveries, Caravan riders and local shop keeping are the most common jobs they get on the outsider kingdom Celes. On the others, their jobs are more expanded and more open. The discrimination does not end, though.

Currently, most important jobs are kept by a human in Ivudor, accompanied by a beast man. There was an older battle of interspecies relations. This one was handled diplomatically, the kingdom that fought for these rights is now none existent. There are no records of it, besides of the diplomatic discussions.

"Interspecies relationships were known before even the discussion was brought to light. Even before the war of the rights of the Beast fallen, they had a difficult life when these relations happened. Marriage between interspecies was seen as taboo, or anything related with that kind of relation. But love is everywhere and with many forms. This diplomatic problem created multiple incidents. But one particular event happened.

Somewhere there was a kingdom known as Lyre. (The kingdom has changed since then, and it is unknown the origin of said kingdom.) There were the lovers, in this case a guard and a diplomatic, both from different species working together in a single castle. An extinguishing line of wolves in the Reed family. He was a guard and a captain under Lyre's kingdom ruler. The diplomatic was coming from another kingdom, one that was known to share union between species, the kingdom of Ivudor.

Due to some unforeseen circumstances, the loyal guard of the king was assigned as a protector to the diplomatic. With time, their union grew stronger with the passing days to the point of both becoming closer than friends. Their lives changed, and their union grew to become of lovers. But interspecies relations on the kingdom of Lyre was known as taboo.

In a good way, this lead to other incident. But at the same time, during their first confession of love and the feelings they had for each other. The ruler was killed on that night, changing the course of the diplomatic relation. The diplomat was trowed in jail while the guard was in there trying to at least let him have a fair justice trial. Due to this incident, many rumors were created, but the most credible one was that the diplomat killed the king.

This was not the true outcome of the story. He did not kill the king, he was framed. But before the incident there were small hints of the kingdom of Lyre falling out of touch. The rest has faded in history, but it was said that after the whole ordeal that they win over the problem. Although many of the people were against how it resulted, they both fought for their rights to become an item.

Many people that had fallen in love with the Beast fallen before and after initiated a march to have their rights. The inspiration from the knight and the diplomat created a movement. In the end, they win their right to live peacefully on their villages and kingdoms that accept it."

This story really opened my eyes to see how much suffering was in this world. Now I arrived in peaceful times, But wondering of what the future might hold for me. It makes me worry. The future might be a hard one.

- Two year passed, uneventful. That is, until recently...

My specialty, flavor.

Playlist: 2 Hours of Celtic Music by Adrian von Ziegler (Part 1/3)

Time stamp for song while reading in video: Gaelic Earth - 19:36

Current date: Day 01, Month 10, Year 986. The beginning of autumn.

Maxwell's body Age: 16
Alex's Age: 25

Some words from my cooking started to spread to the local INN & Tavern. Oliver, the leader of the village, was also the owner of the said INN & Tavern: The white fox.

Time: Morning

I wake up feeling a bit cold, summer had passed, and those warm days stayed behind. I had to prepare by cutting wood to set up a new fire place. Our home was cozy because of certain artifacts. Eliot had showed me how to deal with the winter by setting up a small fire in my room, using interesting furniture. The thing was a small oven like device.

It would eat the wood, turning it into heat, and it would glow red colors from the top. The structure was made of multiple white stones with a caged metal surrounding it. It seems to keep the rocks in place. It had two holes, one for the wood, the other for heating up the place.

My new mundane tasks kinda kept my mind busy more. Writing was also left to stop, due to no needing to continue writing for Eliot. And my new, friendly pet fox, was with me all the time. Honestly, he sleeps with me. I had built a bond with it, I no longer needed to call him. He would just know when I would call him.

In my free time, I would create some toys for him to play with. Some were off shape, but I managed to create the little thing I wanted to most. The two color rope collar with a bell. It looked good in it, and he loved it. At the moment, Nayoko was sleeping in top of me when I went to sleep.

Alex: Morning...

I said with a groggy voice.

Nayoko stretched while he was still on top of me.

It had grown a bit, almost from the size of a chihuahua pup (around 3" to 4") to a 3-month-old German Shepard pup (around 9" to 11"). Nayoko still wanted to be around my neck when he was young, but he could no longer fit on top of me. Besides, he was bigger than before.

When I moved to get up, he jumped out of the bed and sited, licking his maw. I stretched while sitting up at the edge of the bed. I look over a small stack of wood near my bed to check if I had enough.

Alex: Yes, I do have enough. Now time to get freshen up.

Being able to do your stuff like soap helped me. I just needed some kind of oil (plant-based, animal-based would make it stink awful.), Wood ashes (If you combine water you get Lye. Lye is needed to make soap.), distilled water (water boiled into vapor and condensed back into liquid.), and salt... What? Yes, it is that simple.

(Please do not try to make soap unless you know what you are doing. There are risks on trying to make soap by yourself. It can actually cause problems to your skin. Lye is aggressive to the skin, it can cause burns. During the Middle Ages, water and ash was all it was used to clean grime; In small quantities and not all the time. Ash with water creates Lye, the same one that can burn your skin.

Distilled water is not, completely safe for consumption (drinking). Due to the absence of minerals like magnesium and calcium, it will give it an unappealing taste. This leads to reduced water consumption, a decrease in body's metabolism function and increase of urine output that could result in electrolyte imbalance. But you can drink it, if it is accompanied by food that has the missing minerals.)

Salt rocks were quite difficult to find, but salt was not expensive. I found out that most of the items were obtainable through conventional means. I picked a few known plants to make oil. I would add herbs in a solution, creating what it would be like a shampoo. Due to cold weather, I had to heat up a bit of water to be able to clean my self.

Due to the slight cold weather, I decided to do it inside. Using the same sponge outside with a couple of rags with a bucket of water, I used a bit of my soap concoction and started to clean my self. I noticed bobbles form, and it made me laugh a bit. Soap is essential for cleaning more to remove dirt and grime. But it also has a hidden benefit to it.

It is less likely to get sick. Using the rags with water, I started to remove the excess of bubbles and passing it over and over the water in the bucket. Not that much water would fall inside, besides the heater artifact would dry off the floor. Once done with a towel, I started to change.

Attire changed and hair fixed up. Now I am ready to start my day. I walk out of my room to find Eliot just exiting his room.

Alex: Good morning, Eliot!

I say with a happy smile.

Eliot: Good morning... Alex.

During the first days, Elliot would still call me Maxwell. I had to remind him that he was... gone. He slowly recovered thanks to the books I wrote from his memories as memento. I went the extra mile to add a drawing of his ethereal figure when he was outside his body.

Alex: I will be preparing some food, what do you feel like to eat?

Eliot made a thinking face that was interrupted by a yawn. It made me chuckle a bit.

Eliot: I... *Yawns*. I guess something light with meat please.

Alex: All right! Order up.

I made my way to the kitchen and started to prepare something simple, but that was from my hometown.

Eliot carried a towel and was leaving outside. But before he left, I told him.

Alex: I hope you can handle spicy food.

Eliot turned around slightly worry. I know why he is worried. A couple of times I tried to add hot peppers to food that I would normally add it. But the food ended too spicy for him.

Alex: Haah... No, I will make sure it is not as spicy, Eliot.

I noticed a relief sigh from Eliot while I was turning around. I just rolled my eyes. I would create just a hot sauce to the side this time.

To make salsa:

6 tomatillos (Physalis philadelphica or husk tomato, it has more names like, tomate de fresadilla, tomate milpero, tomatillo, miltomate, farolito).
3 peppers or more depending on the spice level.
1 clover of garlic (Minced).
A pinch of salt and black pepper, to the person's taste.
½ of Onions.

I put to boil the tomatoes and papers in a pot with water and let it boil until cooked. Once that is done, I would use a mortar and pestle to grind together all the ingredients. Except for the onions, you can cut it in small pieces. Also, you can add cilantro to give it a better taste. (Normally added when it is for tacos)

Once I have finished my hot sauce. I started working in the meal for today. It was something simple, yet it was likely a new thing for him. Hand made Quesadilla. Simple and light for mornings. But, I had problems getting cheese. Apparently, cheese is considered a luxury here.

Good thing I can make a simple kind of cheese that can go well together with my dish. It is called "queso cotija". It is simple to make with the right ingredients and can be ready as soon in 3 months as a minimum. The process is simple, but I will not go in detail this time. It requires milk, half a lemon, and vinegar.

Vinegar can be made by hand, with fruit juice, natural yeast and acetic acid bacteria. Acetic acid bacteria can be found in fresh apple cider and unpasteurized beer. As for Yeast, it can be grown with fresh collected raisins, traces of yeast can be found in their skins.

I know it is a whole process, but in the end all the ingredients I get from doing this stuff, can be used to cook more food. In México, we do a lot of stuff by hand. Depending on where you are or who you live with, you learn a lot of stuff. Actually, to say that the food here was... alright. Was saying too much, there was no flavor, bland, unappetizing at least for me.

Still, I had made and searched for familiar looking plants that I used for cooking. Foods that could be done by hand and easily accessible. Most of my time while I lived alone was learning DIY or Do It Yourself recipes. It occupied my life and was not stuck in bed thinking about my past.

Right now. I'm thankful for a new opportunity. I was lazy when my... mental condition was too... disconnected from reality. I used books, anime, manga, video games, anything to escape reality. But exercise was not one of them, unless it was a dancing game that came out this year with new songs.

I felt like I tried to steal my self mentally, but in the end... It weights me down. I used the reading to start and try cooking, try recipes, try to make anything by my self. Save money, adapt my cooking with work. I worked in a retail shop... Not the most interesting thing, to be honest.

Organizing clothing, restocking the clothes in the store, tiding up the untidier clothing, etc. Boring and mundane, with the occasional Karen, wanting something or trying to get a refund. Those were the interesting things of my job. Karen's... Anyway. To make flour or corn flour, I had to use the mortar & pestle.

*Door closes behind me*

Using a bit of water and a continuous motion using mortar & pestle. I made flour dough (I keep confusing flour with flower) used my hands to make a tortilla. But before I can cook it, I had to cook the meat. Cutting the meat in bite size, I added oil in a pot. Cut some onions, and added the meat with the onions. Letting it cook, I added salt, black pepper, and minced garlic.

*Sounds of furniture moving*

I readied up another small fire place to start working with the tortillas while the meat was cooking. I never told how it would be set up in this age but, they have metal triangles that acted as a steady surface for pans, pots, skillets, and cauldrons. It was a tripod of sorts. I used one to let the pot of meat stay on the fire. It is like a turning device made of metal.

The pot was hanging on top of the fire place like a spit. Using the metal triangle holder. I prepared a pan to cook the tortillas. Half of the tortilla cooked, I started to add some meat with a few slices of cheese. All the while somewhat distracted by the presence behind me.

It was familiar, I predicted that maybe it was Eliot sitting in the table, but his silence was... new. Made four quesadillas fighting for space in the pan. I prepared a plate, or better known as a trencher, with the quesadillas. The plate is made of flat, round stale bread. These are plates that you can eat, a funny invention of the old ages.

When I turned around, a familiar figure appeared, I stood there, Paralyzed, this was the last person I was hoping to see. Lucas...

I shivered when noticing that Lucas has arrived, to my home nonetheless. The plate I was holding almost fall down, with my mouth open. This is going to be awkward...

Alex: L-Lucas?

Lucas got up and tried to hug me, but my defense was up when I saw him. I evaded without wanting, my body moved to the side and backed away from him. I managed to leave the plate at the table.

Alex: W-what are you doing here?

The memories that I saw from Maxwell affected me. I was starting to blush, and moved away to the outside door. Lucas had a mischievous look, that I recognized too well. Lucky for me, Eliot was entering the house and looked at me puzzled first.

Alex: E-Eliot, can you help me here?

I pointed towards Lucas, his confusion was visible due to my reaction.

Time passed.

Time: Midday

The sun was shining brightly, lightening the kitchen, and I was continuing with making food. Eliot just started to eat and was beaming with the flavor of my food. I was surprised when I noticed the long strand of melted cheese following the bite that Eliot took.

The long days checking that the cheese did not mold was finally over, I could store it in the freezing box. Technology is not advanced, but Mana was really useful. To store food, they had boxes with a stone that created a layer of ice on the sides. Keeping the contents inside fresh.

The stone was a variant of Magilite. According to my readings, Magilite is a pure form of Mana contained in crystal form. Magilite itself is rare, but not its variants. Pretty common depending on the biome. Earth is the most common following wind, and water. The harder would be Fire.

(*Incoming Transmission*
Computer: Accessing database...
Computer: Searching...
Computer: Information about Magilite, found.
Computer: Accessing public information...
Computer: Magilite: A crystal that is a pure form of Mana contained in crystal form. Magilite exist due to extreme changes on the world. Magilite on mines is rare but have a high concentration of magic. It can also be obtained by killing True Monsters. The rare occasion on them is that there is a way to create Magilite, one example would be that there is an age that has become a history it was called The great killing.
Computer: End of available public information in the database.
*End Of Transmission*)

I finished making twelve quesadillas, and put a small container with my salsa in the middle. Eliot recognized the container, and did not want to add anything I did to my portion.

Alex: Haah... So... Lucas what happened? Your visit seems... Out of place.

Lucas took a bit of my sauce and tried to add it to one of his quesadillas.

Alex: Be careful... It might be too much for you. First taste it.

He was confused but took my advice. When he tasted it, his face was priceless. Joy run through my body, knowing well that spicy stuff is not a norm in here. No reaction for three seconds... Until it started to take an effect on him.

Alex: Water?

I asked with a grinning face. He nodded hurriedly, I took water from the barrel and gave it to Lucas. He down it immediately.

Alex: Told you it would be too much to handle.

I said starting to laugh his face was red, crimson red. Eyes watering down cascades, panting, feeling the burn of capsaicin. Capsaicin is the chemical element that makes hot peppers spicy, it is also what is used for pain relief in hand made creams.

Eliot joined my laughter, he never saw how he looked when he got the hot sauce.

Alex: That's how you looked, Eliot, when you try my spicy food.

Eliot: R-really? Well, it certainly is entertaining to watch. I never saw a red face like his.

Alex: It is quite common where I come from, with spicy food, more if they are not used to it.

Lucas looked at me with a confused face, while he was panting.

Alex: There was a whole competition of the spiciest pepper that anyone could cultivate.

Alex: And to tell you, the spiciest was called Carolina reaper. It was the spiciest one you could eat. It could also kill you since it would cause problems with the body.

Eliot: Wow...

He stared at Lucas, slightly worried.

I was still standing up close to the barrel, prepared to give more water.

Alex: More water?

Lucas: Y-yes, please.

I handed him another full cup of water with a piece of ice this time. Lucas finally managed to control the heat, with a little help.

Lucas: So-

Lucas was interrupted by a shove open of the front door, startling us.

In there were the other people who I thought I would never see again, Aiden the Tiger and Samuel the Wolf.

Alex's mind: Is this a reunion, or what is going on? Also, why did they not knock on the door?

Time stamp for song while reading in video: Circle of Life - 55:47

I noticed that Samuel's tail was wagging furiously, while Aiden's tail was playfully moving side to side.

Alex: Come in... Jeez...

I say with a sigh and scratching the back of my head.

Alex: Well, nothing like Mexican families, I guess.

I chuckled by self. All of them eyed me curiously.

Mexican families are known to have big families. I had twelve Uncles and aunts, don't forget the cousins, I had twenty-two and the grandparents. Imagine making food for all the members of the family. Yep, fun, and chaos.

Time passes.

I finished cooking for the tiger and wolf. They have been talking with Eliot while I was cooking food. I was nervous to tell them the truth, but I guess Levy had something to do. Aiden and Samuel were sitting on top of boxes due to the low number of wooden stools. Though, I could not help but eye them.

Anatomically, are like furries to a certain point. I thought I would never use that word to describe someone, but this time it seems... Fitting. Let me explain a bit. They look like humans, most of the body is like in our past. I believe the closest thing I can say is they are in Australopithecines stage of the theory of evolution for human species.

But, is not right. Actually, their bodies are similar to human to some extent...

Paws are more hand like with what I have seen people call beans. Long nails that are claw like. They don't wear shoes or footwear, so you can see their paws, they are more paw like than feet. Their legs look strong, from the wolf side. Samuel has less clothing compared to Aiden.

Aiden being a tiger and understanding a bit of Biology, they have shorter fur and have a better tolerance with clothing... I guess. In Samuel's case, he had a... Tribal kind of clothing. He looked like he was wearing only a loincloth with a belt that seemed to hold items. Small flasks, some with herbs, others with some kind of liquids. He had a "Capsus Cotton Backpack", holding from the right shoulder only.

Aiden was more properly dressed. Gallantly like a duke, he had dark pants, accompanied by a crème colored "Norman tunic" with a leather trim, decorated with a traditional design. He was carrying a brown belt bag on his right side of his hip. On the left, he had something looking like a "Lynn Shoulder Bag".

Aiden's body seem normal, like your typical office worker. Nothing standing out beside his way of walking or dressing... For me, at least, he does have a certain charm to it. His fur pattern is similar to any tiger but, the color palette is what creates a difference.

His fur color is slightly blue, with his stripes, one of them creating a weird pattern in his head. His eyes are golden yellow, like honey. I would say unusual due to the normal colors of a tiger.

Samuel's body it looks like a strong guy, big pecks, arms, and legs with some abs barely forming. Funny enough, that's seems to be just looks. I still don't understand how he could not lift his box to sit down. I feel him like a softie. Looks strong, but doesn't want to hurt anyone. Sitting on the box was comical, he is taller than me or even Eliot.

But not as big as a werewolf. Samuel's fur is interesting, it has the same coating as a normal feral wolf. But the palette is what differentiates him from the wild ones. The majority of his fur is Dark, with a degrading to gray and then to red. His eyes are really bright blue in the dark, I'm sure I would only see his eyes.

Aiden and Samuel noticed me taking some green looking liquid into my food and tried to do the same. I warn them, like I did with Lucas.

Alex: Be careful, it might be too strong for both of you. First taste and later add.

They looked at each other and turned back, putting some in their paws. Samuel was the first one, Three seconds in and his face did not change...

Alex: Interesting... give it a taste, Aiden.

I noticed Samuel started to grin, but a bit shaky.

Aiden tasted... started to cough and pant. This time, I hand him a cup of water with some ice. He drank it all in one go.

Alex: Easy there, let the cold water stay in your mouth for a while.

I handed another cup with ice.

Aiden: What... what is that?

Alex: You might not know, but is hot sauce. It is made with one of these.

I show them a hot pepper.

Alex: I know them as Chile serrano. They create the feeling of burning in your mouth. Besides that, I just like the taste.

Chile serrano is hotter than Jalapeños. Five times hotter.

I notice tears on Aiden, that did really affect him. Samuel in the other hand...

Alex: Hey, Samuel, I notice that you can take the heat. Does it have to do with some kind of training?

Alex's mind: In tribes, they had some... tests they do. One time I watched a documentary of people eating fire ants... or getting tolerance to a poisonous plant.

Aiden: How did you-

Alex: Call it intuition.

Samuel: Y-yes, I had to leave to do an initiation in my...

Samuel trailed off. I just filled the blanks.

Alex: Let me guess, tribe or pack ceremony something to do with age of coming. I am correct?

He just nodded. Right! I was right, so they work in some kind of pack. I guess my readings are turning useful. I was eyed suspiciously by the three of them. I just shrugged.

Lucas: Like I was trying to say.

Lucas started to talk.

Lucas: Levy told us something important you had to say to us, Maxwell.

I see Eliot flinch at the word. I sigh and pat the back of Eliot. All three of them look at me worried and confused.

Alex: Well... It is about that, Maxwell... Is no longer here.

Silence is in the room, uncomfortable, but I expected as much.

Alex: First... finish the food, and then I will explain.

While eating to ease the surrounding awkwardness, I put a little competition, who can get more of the green liquid in their food and eat it without drinking water wins. The item of winning would be something from me. The three of them agreed and started slowly adding hot sauce. I slowly ate while watching their faces.

Eliot did not want to get into it, so he ate, staying silent. Lucas and Samuel were bickering, while Samuel had almost the same tolerance as me. He could not last long. Lucas fought back with a red face. I also had a red face, but I was not panting. I was laughing a bit of how much this seemed fun to them.

Aiden was not getting in, but still added a bit of it. I chuckled when he noticed me staring. It was kinda cute, his shyness was showing. But he enjoyed the bickering of the two rowdy ones. This was fun...

It reminded me of home... My home world...

My gaze lowered to the table, tears formed around the corners of my eyes. Even before I had noticed, all three looked at me. But in this case, Aiden and Samuel were first to stop and notice. I noticed through my blurred vision, their ears flop down. Both their tails dropped, I had a hunch that they could feel my pain.

I tried to clear my eyes, but my tears were already flowing. Eliot hugged me, I feel it again. The warmth of a caring father. The sense of belonging, to finally be with a family. I started to cling into Eliot, luckily Eliot, Lucas and I had finished our portion.

I separated a bit to answer the most probable question they had on their heads.

Alex: Don't worry, these tears are from happiness. It just had been so long since I felt this...

I trailed off. Eliot was comforting me like a child. I did not care, my father never did this to me. Most of the time he would end up almost cracking my skull into the table, or barely evading the items he would trow at me. His anger was a real problem, but he only did it when he had enough. Like me.

I sigh, content with the warm embrace Eliot gave me.

Sometime passes...

We have been here for a while and I finally managed to compose my self. To be able to explain what happened. I started to explain, bit by bit, how I arrived. How we, Maxwell and I managed to communicate. Everything that I could to, everything to be honest, to be sincere.

All three at the same time: You must be joking!

I laugh at the sudden answer that was done in unison. But being cautious, I took my quartz and let it hang outside my clothing.

Alex: No, no. I am telling the truth. Ask Eliot... sorry, father, about it.

Eliot asked me to still call him father, but it felt... Alien. Still, I would not mind since it is a lot to take in.

Eliot: Yes... *sighs* He is not lying...

It hurt my heart to see him like that, to lose the one person you care about with another entity out of nowhere.

All of them still had that face of not believing. I sighed.

Alex: Look, if you do not believe me, I at least know Samuel will believe me.

I spelled a word with my mouth, a "sorry". All of them turned to him, wondering why.

I took a deep breath in and out, then I closed my eyes.

Soon I had the same feeling from before, when Maxwell let my ethereal form outside my/his body. I stand up, and slowly my ethereal body separated from my physical one. Samuel was in awe, his eyes shined with something like happiness and curiosity, the others were the same, curious but with worried faces.

My ethereal body did not match my physical form, so Samuel knew I was not lying. There is something from my books I read about the Wolf Beast fallen. They believe in ethereal forms, as lost souls. And have to be guided to their rightful paths. In this case, Wolf Beast fallen are the guides of the deceased.

I noticed Samuel's tail wagging, it made me chuckle. I was out long enough and had to return to my body. When I did, it had the same effect of breathing in, like I was holding it.

I also felt weird... something felt out. I looked around until I saw Lucas, he had the same aura as Eliot. Not as strong, but it still worried me.

Alex: Aiden, Samuel, I have a favor to ask...

They turned to look at me and saw my serious face.

Alex: Father, I will need the book from before.

Eliot stood up and nodded his head, letting me know he understood the situation.

Alex: Please hold, Lucas.

Aiden and Samuel: Why?

Alex: Just do it!

Both had doubts, but decided to follow.

Soon enough, the figure started to grow, and my Quartz started to change into dark.

Alex: This happened before with Eliot, a figure appeared behind with a form of an animal. Red eyes showing anger.

Lucas's shadow formed into a wolf, no surprise his possessed animal is a wolf.

Alex: Actually drag him outside, we might need to move him further in the forest. We do not want the villagers to get affected.

Alex: Hurry! We are running out of time before he breaks.

Both drag Lucas outside. Meanwhile, I'm waiting for Eliot.

After some time, Eliot enters with the book in his hand.

Eliot: Did the same thing that happened to me is happening to Lucas?

I sigh.

Alex: Yes... I know they might think I'm crazy, but I have to protect the village, at least if it is because of me.

Alex: I hate this, but there is no option.

Eliot: Here I also brought you this.

Eliot hands me a bracelet. Silver colored with 4 stones, each corresponding one former Primal Mana Element. The shape of the stones was like the diamonds on a ring. They popped out, separating a bit. From left to right, Brown, Green, Blue, and Red.

(Items like accessories can be used to store Mana, it is pretty common but not common to buy or have one.)

Alex: How did y-

Eliot: Do not worry, go and help Lucas, I have seen the damage that shadow thing can make people do.

Eliot: Just be careful, I do not want to lose some else.

That made me give him a smile.

The following part was inspired by this song while writing: June - Something To Lose.

Alex: T-thank you, Eliot. I promise, I will be back.

I run outside and Both Samuel and Aiden were dragging Lucas, with difficulty.

Alex: Follow me, I will explain while walking.

I searched for the same spell I used with Eliot the last time. Also, I put on the bracelet that Eliot gave me. It fit just right. While walking, I explained what I could see in Lucas, thankfully Aiden had known what they were.

Huffing while dragging Lucas.

Aiden: Those are called shadows. They are known to grow from people's negative emotions.

*Still searching for the page I last read in the book.*

Aiden: But how do you know about those things?

Alex: I do not know, I have been searching books about it, but I have found nothing. I just used an expel spell that is in this book.

Aiden: Can you see them?

Alex: Yes, Eliot knows that I can see them. Four years ago, Eliot had a similar shadow. Levy helped me with it, and gave me this spell book.

Samuel: How did you manage to take out your ethereal form... uh...

Samuel made a circular motion with his paw, trying to figure out how to call me.

Alex: The name is Alex, Alex Luján.

Alex: In the day four of the month four, I told Eliot and Levy that I could communicate with Maxwell, but he was...

Alex: *sigh*. Saying goodbye. He told me to take care of Eliot and tell you guys about it.

Alex: I know you guys from Maxwell's memories, but all of you had changed. Heh...

We had been walking quite for a while now, and we arrived at some crossroads, which I barely know.

Alex: Alright, we are quite far away. Hold Lucas while I chant the spell.

Both nodded and had trouble to hold Lucas. I took a big breath and started chanting.

Alex: Per nomen tuum sanctum deo lux tua fiat tibi ductor. Purificetur anima tua ab umbris. Rationabiliter age, mando tibi. Expelle!

While the spell was being cast, a circle appeared under Lucas. That circle had letters that appeared to be a strange language. There were two circles with glyphs surrounding it, spelling something. Then a wall of sparks came up surrounding the outer circle, creating some kind of wall.

(These are the symbols or glyphs. Provided by Goku Revolucion)

With a flash, the spell was done, and the sparks flied in the wind. I saw the figure disappear. I barely could stand, but I did not black out like I previously did.

Panting, I asked both of them how Lucas was holding.

Alex: How... How is Lucas doing?

Samuel checked.

Samuel: He is fine, but it seems he blacked out.

Alex: Give me some time to recover, and I will help you guys carry him back.

Alex: It has been a long time since I had done a spell. It takes out something from me, I feel heavy.

Aiden: What happened when you did it to Eliot?

Alex: I black out. I barely had time to see the shadow before it disappeared, and I had fallen to sleep.

Finally regaining my composure, I managed to stand.

Alex: Alright, I can stand a bit more. Let me try to carry Lucas.

Both were hesitant, but they allowed me to carry Lucas in my back.

When we arrived, Oliver was talking with Eliot outside the house.

Alex: Hello Oliver!

I yelled with a wave of my hand.

Oliver: Long time no see, Alex.

Oliver was a trusted person, I had to tell him since it was difficult to hide my... "Inventions" from them. I requested strange forge of items time to time in the blacksmith. I was also buying more books than what Maxwell would read. I also needed a place to store the cheese, so that is a plus for him.

Oliver: What happened to Lucas?

Alex: The same thing that happened with Eliot, but less chaotic.

Oliver: Haah... Boy, you sure get a lot of trouble lately.

Alex: Tell me about it...

He smirked at me and started to laugh.

Oliver is more easy going. Chatty and overall someone you get along pretty easily. He also has a bit of a childish vigor hidden. The last time I spoke with him, he was asking about spices, I managed to hold a conversation about cooking, and he was joyous. He really enjoys cooking.

Alex: Let me get Lucas to rest, and I will help with what you need.

Oliver: There is no need, first take care of Lucas. What I need can wait.

Alex: Thank you, sir.

Eliot and Oliver nodded. I went inside and let Lucas sleep in my bed.

Inside my room I had many books in one corner and a bunch of stuff like dolls, paintings, drawings, maps, and some toys that I made to Nayoko.

I lay gently Lucas with the help of Samuel and Aiden.

Alex: Haah... Sorry for the disaster, but I have been busy with some chores.

Samuel: Do not worry, Ma-

Samuel gets an elbow in the ribs, making him wince a bit from the impact.

Aiden: Alex, you do not have to worry about it.

Aiden: Can I ask what are these for?

Alex: Oh?! Those are toys... Where is he?

Samuel: Who?

Samuel asked while still rubbing his ribs.

Alex: Right! I haven't presented him to you guys. His name is Nayoko.

When I said his name he appeared passing through the curtains.

Alex: Oh, right.

I reach to a belt bag I had with some saved treats.

Alex: Sit.

Nayoko sits and gets a treat. I have been teaching him some tricks. Mostly to train him in combat, like "Palamutes". A canine that helps the hunters in a game that had to do with monster hunting. But, I was not expecting what I saw.

Samuel was sitting down in the floor looking at me with puppy eyes.

Alex: Hehe, I see that someone has some traits.

Samuel immediately stand up, I noticed a slight red blush under his fur. It was barely visible but, I saw it. He moved his head to the side and tried to hide his blushed face with a paw. Giving away that he did blush.

Samuel: S-shut up.

Aiden and I started to laugh. We started to talk about me, mostly both of them were curious. Curious about my cooking, they enjoyed my food. Surprisingly since it was simple to make. I asked how long they would stay in the village, Aiden was a bit sad with the question.

Aiden: I have to leave in three days. My... Family business needs my help.

Alex: What is your family business, Aiden?

Aiden: My work requires my attention, we build the aero-ships.

Alex: Aero-ships? Like a flying artifact?

Aiden's face lights up when I asked. I noticed his tail swaying playfully.

Aiden: No, a ship with a big ball that makes it float.

Alex: Wait?! A ship? Could it be... better if it was... Never mind.

Aiden gives me a confuse face.

Alex: Do not worry, is... something in my world we use to travel, I guess is similar.

Aiden's left ear jerks a bit.

Alex: What can you tell me about it?

Aiden: Oh! The ship has these propellers that move the ship to different directions and flies through the sky.

Alex: Could it be a combination of a balloon, blimp, and a ship?

I murmur under my breath. I notice Samuel's ears twitch a bit.

Alex's mind: Better keep that info in my mind.

Alex: Does it have to do with ropes attached to the balloon, and has a fire that makes it float?

Aiden: Yes, have you seen one?

Alex: Concepts of it, but not personally.

I sigh, noticing something.

Alex: Aiden, you are adapting fast to me... are you forgetting that you are not talking to him right?

Guilty as charged, his tail and ears drop, he looks cute with that face. He is so gentle, it hurts seeing him like this.

I get close to him and only pat his shoulder.

Alex: Sorry, I know it is hard to know the person you are looking is not the same one from five years ago.

Alex: More if it is a different soul inside his body. I really wish I did not take his body. But, I had no choice.

Alex: Hmmm... let me give you guys something...

Alex: Here...

I reach my drawer and pull two books, the three books I had from Eliot were the same, as copies. I made two more for Levy and Lucas, but, Levy has not returned.

Alex: This one is for you and... This one for you.

I hand them a book.

Alex: These are Maxwell's last memories before he parted. I wrote them in these books. Keep this book as a memento.

Alex: Also...

I grinned.

Alex: I know that all of you have something for him.

I noticed their faces turning red under their fur, it was funny.

Samuel: S-so you know...

Alex: Yes, I share Maxwell's memories. I could see what he did not. I'm a 25-year-old soul, I can see the hints and I know about it too well.

Alex: You guys could have been a perfect partner... or should I say... mate?

Samuel and Aiden hid their faces behind the book.

Alex: Hehe, you guys look so cute.

I was enjoying the little tease, but at the same time I was feeling a bit guilty. I sigh, when noticing I was being a dickhead.

Alex: Sorry, sorry. I wish the situation was different...

Alex: It was insensible of me to tease you guys... I... I will check if Oliver needs me.

I felt a pang of pain. It was bad to do that to them.

Alex: Here, this one is for Lucas, make sure he gets it.

I leave the room without saying anything else or looking back at them.

Alex: Hey Oliver, I am free now, what do you need help with now.

Oliver and Eliot were talking in the kitchen.

Time: sundown

Time stamp for song while reading in video: Song of Brotherhood - 5:34

I started to prepare food. While I was doing the preparations. Eliot was talking with Oliver, soon the smell of the food reached Oliver. Not only him but Lucas, who finally had woken up, came to sit in a box waiting and looking tired. As for Aiden and Samuel, both had eyes shining, smelling the air.

Alex: Oliver, care to help me with some cutting?

I was making something similar to what I made in the morning, this time it was tacos. It is simple and can make a lot for the party of people I have to cater to. Six people is a bit too much, but with tacos it can be done swiftly.

Oliver: Sure, I have been wanting to taste the food you have been making.

Alex: Heh. Well, this is something that takes time, but it will be similar. To what I made this morning.

Alex: I need you to cut onions in small squares and cut this. This is called cilantro.

I show him cilantro, which is most likely never used as a topping in here.

Alex: Cut lemons in four pieces, around three will be fine. For last, can you continue mixing the meat while I prepare the tortillas.

Oliver: Tortillas?

Alex: This.

I show him one already made and cooked.

The meat is pork spiced with adobo. Adobo is a spice combination with achiote, spices, and red-hot peppers that had been dried and ground into a powder. Funny thing about it, we do not add achiote to our adobo in Mexico.

(Achiote "achuete": Are seeds extracted from the Bixa orellana an American tropical bush. They end up grounded to a powder, Aztecs used them for coloring textiles, and Mayas used them for spices and colorant for religious rites. At one point, the seed became a coin. Interesting right?)

Alex: But first pass your hands with this liquid, froth them to get rid of grime. If you see bubbles, then you are doing it right. And clean the cilantro, use only water.

The liquid is my DIY soap.

Oliver: Wait, is this?

Alex: Yes, it is soap I made it. Hurry and help me first, then we can talk about it.

I heard multiple gasp behind me, I rolled my eyes and continued taking care of cooking, adding the right amount of spices to the meat. And keeping a constant stir in the pot, so the meat will be coated. I changed to handling the tortillas by hand once Oliver finished cutting the toppings.

Alex: This kind of cooking is different from what you know, right?

Oliver: It is, I have never seen people cook like you do. It is always lively hearing this chattering.

The chattering was mostly our guests that will be eating first. Eliot, Lucas, Samuel, and Aiden were eagerly waiting for their foods. I managed to catch slips of the conversation. Something about a road being closed and a creature appearing in the forest.

Alex: Heh. This cuisine of my world is known as poor food, but in reality. It has a lot more to do to how good you make the food.

Alex: It is cheap to make and can be done for multiple people. As you can tell by the two over there.

Pointing at Samuel and Aiden salivating at the smell.

Alex: They have enjoyed my previous meal, so this one will be liked by them.

Interesting thing about Beast fallen. They enjoy eating meat more often than vegetables. Their carnivore instincts are still there.

Alex: By the way, how is the INN going? Should you not be there working?

Oliver: Oh, about that... We have been remodeling one of the rooms. Due to the sudden increase of people...

Oliver moved his head pointing at Lucas, Aiden, and Samuel.

Oliver: Besides, one day free of work does wonders to an old man like me.

Alex: Hahaha! No you are not old sir, not with your vigor for cooking.

Alex: We had people living over a hundred years in my world.

Oliver: Really?!

Alex: Yes, one person in particular was surviving for a hundred and twenty-one years, and she was looking good. No signs of her being old.

I wink at Oliver, the lady in question is the only one I know, but I have forgotten her name.

The food was about to be done, so I moved the meat out of the fire.

Alex: Here, dip this in the meat and then make them like this.

I show the process of how to make tacos.

Alex: Four per plate and pass it along to the table. Use the wooden ones over there.

I point to a box full of plates made of wood. These are different from the ones they use. The more common plate is the trencher, but we do not have bread right now. Oliver nodded and started to pass them along with four tortillas with meat in them.

I helped a bit by plating the toppings with my salsa, which I managed to save before leaving.

Alex: Add this and this to your... Oh, right!

I slap my face.

Alex: I call these tacos, the meat in is named differently. We call this kind of prepared meat, pastor. Normally it would be made differently, but the things I need are not here.

Although pigs not exist here, they do have something similar, which is boar meat. Same with some animals, and some do exist here.

Alex's mind: Besides, that is quite pricey and heavy to make tacos "Al Pastor" like in México.

Alex: If you want, you can squirt the lemon and add my salsa... This green liquid.

Lucas, Aiden, and Eliot flinch a bit.

Alex: Hehe, don't worry, the meat has hot peppers, but they are less spicy. Actually, you won't feel the hot peppers at all.

Alex: The ones that already have a plate can start eating.

Alex: Oliver, I will only need help with plating, can you hold on eating for a bit?

Oliver: Sure... But the smell, it is quite irresistible to not take a bite.

Alex: You and me.

Eliot ate quite a bit like Lucas, six tacos in total. Compared to Aiden and Samuel... I was surprised by their appetite, they ate sixteen each. Samuel took a liking to my salsa and almost finish it. As for Oliver and me...

Alex: Wow. You guys really like my cooking, huh.

I heard a burp coming from both Aiden and Samuel.

I started to laugh at the sight. They had bellies now, not as big as you would think. No this is not an anime, it grew slightly on Aiden, it made him quite uncomfortable.

I noticed in the corner of my eye Oliver taking a bite of his taco and his eyes widen.

Oliver: OH! Is delicious.

Oliver said with a mouth full of food.

Alex: Heh, first empty your mouth before talking.

Oliver: S-sorry.

Alex: Haha, I'm the adult now?

Oliver had a red face after hearing that. All of us broke into laughter. A hearty conversation broke, and we started to talk about what was going on in the village. Lucas, Samuel, and Aiden talked about their travels. Since I have been here, I was stuck in with Eliot, but it was becoming surprisingly normal.

Oliver had to leave after we were done and asked me if I could show him some recipes. I agreed and tell him only a pair of recipes like how to make cheese, and oil. Good substitutes of some costly ingredients. I asked him to keep them a secret due to how cheese was seen as luxury.

Once Oliver left, I was left with the mess and had to clean up. Lucky Samuel, and Aiden offer to help while Eliot said he would be cutting wood outside for winter. Lucas on the other hand looked uncomfortable.

Alex: Haah... Lucas, is there something bothering you?

Lucas: N-no is nothing.

Alex: I can tell... tell me. What is bothering you?

Lucas sighed, clearly not wanting to talk about it.

Time stamp for song while reading in video: Land of the free - 8:07

Lucas: It's about your wings...

Lucas: I... I don't see them.

Alex: Right... About that...

I closed my eyes, cleared my mind and took a deep breath. My wings slowly appeared from my back, slowly glowing and expanding back into their original form.

During my sessions of meditation, I noticed that I could hide my wings more effectively. I do not know why or exactly how, it just came as an instinct.

I opened my eyes and smiled.

Alex: Here they are.

I point at my back, showing my wings to them.

Aiden: Wha?!

Samuel: When were you able to hid them?

Alex: When I learned something about meditation... something to do with clearing my mind.

Lucas: Why did you not tell us?

I rise one eyebrow.

Alex: You guys never asked me about it.

All of them were left speechless. It was true, if it was trouble they never asked about it. I'm an overthinker, and I have a habit to overthink stuff. One of which was my wings, I hid them, forgetting about Maxwell having always shown them.

Alex: Hey... Lucas, do you know spell casting?

Lucas: Some of it, why?

Alex: Would you teach me?

Lucas: W-why?

Alex: I barely know anything about spell casting, I need something to start training in spell casting.

Alex: I also need help with the two of you.

Alex: Aiden, can you help me understand how the coin works here?

Aiden: Sure, but why me?

Alex: I doubt Samuel can help me with that...

Samuel: Hey!

Laughter broke between Lucas and Aiden.

Lucas: You are right about that.

Samuel: What?!

Samuel showed his fangs. It was interesting to see a Beast fallen reactions, it is something I rarely see. We have more Kimonos than Beast fallen here.

Alex: I'm sorry, but judging by your clothing, I can guess you have never traded with anyone. I'm wrong?

Samuel: N-no.

Samuel pouted, making a mocking face.

Time: Nighttime

Alex: Alright then, is settled. The next three days, I will be working with Aiden first...

Alex: How long you two will stay?

I point at Lucas and Samuel.

Lucas: I will stay for 3 months.

Alex: And you, Samuel?

He blushed...

He answered in a murmur, barely audible.

Samuel: Until you leave...

Alex: Wait, what?

He answered again with clarity.

Samuel: Until you leave.

Alex: Is it not your age of coming at eighteen years old?

Samuel: No, our age of coming is at sixteen years old.

I blink.

Alex: What about you, Aiden?

Aiden: Ours is the same, sixteen years old. I just have work that requires my attention.

Alex: I see...

I honestly wanted Aiden staying a bit more. To talk to him and give me time for him.

Alex's mind: I wish you could stay longer, Aiden.

I looked at him with pity.

Alex: Will... Will I be able to see you again before I leave the village?

Lucas, and Aiden: Are you leaving?

Alex: Y-yes... I had planned to... leave the village when I reach eighteen years old.

I said, feeling my throat tight.

Samuel: Did no one heard when I said when he was leaving, I would leave?

Alex: They didn't even pay attention to you.

I guess they felt guilty of ignoring Samuel.

Aiden: I-I am sorry, Samuel.

Lucas: Sorry...

Samuel just let a heavy sigh leave his breath.

Samuel: I was expecting this... somehow.

Alex: Anyway... You guys have a place to stay, right?

Aiden: Yes, except Samuel.

Lucas: I bought my stay before coming here.

Aiden: Same here.

Alex: What about you, Samuel, do you have a place to stay?

Samuel: N-no, they told me that a room was being repaired.

Alex: Do you want to stay with me?

I notice both Aiden and Lucas pout at me... Why me?

Samuel: S-sure!

His tail was wagging, cheerful, like a puppy.

It gave me a small smile seeing him like this.

Alex: Alright then I have a plan, I will give you something before you leave Aiden. I hope you would like it when I give it to you.

I wink at Aiden and he seems nervous.

Alex: Alright, it is time for us to sleep. Good night, Aiden and Lucas.

Lucas: Good night, Ma-

Lucas: Gah!

Lucas gets an elbow in his ribs.

Aiden: Good night, Alex and Samuel.

Lucas: G-good night, both of you.

While walking out of the room...

Lucas: Did you have to hit me in the ribs?

Aiden: Yes, you were about to say the name.

Lucas: I was not thinking about it.

Aiden: Like always.

Lucas: Hey!

I laugh a bit at their bickering. I follow them and close the door and, locking it with a bar. Then return to my room.

Alex: Alright, Samuel, you can sleep in my bed. I will sleep in the floor.

Samuel: Y-you do not have to do that.

Alex: I don't have to, but I want to.

Time: Midnight

Samuel: we... we could...

I noticed Samuel fidgeting in place. Pretty sure he would suggest to sleep in the floor instead.

Alex: We could... What?

Samuel: We could sleep together...

I was left speechless... I was not opposed to the idea... But I did not felt comfortable due to how small my bed was.

Alex: My bed is too small for both of us... Besides, you are bigger than I. Can you even fit?

Samuel: I... I just want to cuddle you, ok?!

Alex: Oh... T-that was y-your reason?

Samuel: Y-yes...

Alex: I-I see...

Alex: Remember I'm not Maxwell...

Samuel: I know...

His ears dropped to his head when I said that.

Right now, I wanted to evade this... Mostly because I had a habit of sleeping without clothes. Only in breeches.

(Breeches, braies, breies, or breeks: are a kind of underpants for men. These are Medieval men's underpants.)

Although he was wearing a loincloth, I was completely distracted by the actual conversation. Now I can't stop my mind wondering back at his dressing attire.

Alex: C-could you put on one of my breeches?

Samuel: S-sure.

He started to undress in front of me, I turned around and covered my face.

Alex's mind: Sure, he is being bold...

I grabbed a pair of breeches and left the room to change.

When I returned, Samuel was in my bed, in the corner close to the wall looking at it.

His back was facing away when I prepared the small heater artifact to a lower temperature, judging by how fur could be to his body. I would not be surprised if he sleeps without a blanket.

I grabbed a thinner blanket. Before I could get into bed, I asked...

Alex: D-do you sleep with a blanket?

Samuel: N-no. M-my fur makes me feel hot at night.

Alex: Do you want me to turn off the artifact?

Samuel: I do not want you to pass the night uncomfortable.

Alex: Nonsense. W-with you by my side, h-how could I pass cold?

For the first time, I felt a blush on my face out of embarrassment.

I went to the bed and covered my self with the blanket. Both slightly uncomfortable, Samuel was the first to turn to face me. My back was to him.

Samuel: Can... Can I?

Alex: S-sure...

His paws hugged me around my arms and chest. His head rested on top of mine. I notice a sigh coming from Samuel.

Samuel: This... Feels nice.

Alex: I-I guess...

Samuel: Can I ask you something, Alex?

Alex: I-I... sure...

Samuel: Did Maxwell feel anything towards anyone of us?

Alex: ...

I honestly never notice, now is late to know of course. But at the memories none tell me who did, he had a big personal connection.

Samuel: ...

Alex: Not that I know of...

Samuel: D-Do you feel anything to us?

Alex: I am sorry... I do not. Not in the special kind.

I rolled over, looking at him.

Alex: But I know that you are feeling conflicted with your emotions...

Alex: I will let you cuddle only. Try something else and you will regret it.

Samuel: Okay...

Slowly we drifted to sleep. He was hugging me while my face was in his chest.

Current date: Day 02, Month 10, Year 986. Autumn.

The next day.

Time: Morning

Time stamp for song while reading in video: Circle of Life - 55:47

I wake up feeling something fluffy around my arms and chest. I try to move, but it pulls me closer. I try again, but this time I hear a groan.

I shuffle, this time I don't hear a groan but a moan... My eyes widen, finally I know why he moaned.

Alex's mind: Wasn't he wearing something?

Alex's mind: I'm sure he was wearing something... Then is the slimy thing I feel on my thigh...

Alex's mind: D-did Samuel got a morning wood?

Samuel was slowly humping my leg...

Alex's mind: God, this is... No, keep calm...

I use my hands to pry open his grip on me and remove my self from the bed.

Alex's mind: Why did it have to happen?

Feeling warm on my face, I cover Samuel to hide his... Obvious wood. My eyes never faced him once I got out of bed, and I just let the blanket cover Samuel.

While standing, I start to prepare clothing and the materials I need to take a bath outside. Samuel is here as a guest, and he does not need to see me in here cleaning my self.

Alex's mind: Alright... I got the items now to bathe in the cold...

Alex's mind: I'm not trill about it.

I exit my room, unlock the front door and walk outside to prepare a bath. From some months, I asked Eliot to ask for a room to be made for cleaning our selves. Something like a bathroom. He took my idea and created a room with stone floor and wooden walls. The room was spacious for two to three people in it. It had a place to change and other to prepare, a big tub.

It was not something I would have made If I knew architecture, but it brought privacy. After what happen with Levy, I got worried about the other passing people. The room could also be used as a sauna. I tried once and worked perfectly thanks to the artifacts making some stuff possible.

I prepared the big tub with some herbs and first cleaned my self. I used a bucket with a sponge and used other soap contained in a bottle with a cork. I cleaned my body and submerged my self in the tub. The water was heated thanks to the fire crystals located around the tub in the floor.

Due to heat transfer, it was separated by a layer of water under the tub the heat would transfer to the floor and the tub. But where the tub was, it had a different placed material. In multiple corners of the tub had squares that seem made out of marble. Eliot told me that the crystals were contained inside them and emanated heat from them.

The way you activate these little trinkets is difficult to explain. It has to do with Mana control and transfer. In my case, I just touch them, and they would work. I really have no idea how it feels to transfer Mana to objects. You would think that this would create fire, but no. It creates heat.

The only problem with the room is that there is no proper isolation. The heat escapes and people still can see inside, but only if they look really close.

I heard the door to the room open.

Alex: Eliot?

Eliot: Oh, is it you, Alex? I hope you slept well.

Alex: I-I did.

My face is probably red after remembering what happen this morning.

Eliot: Is it fine If I join you?

Alex: Sure.

Eliot joins with a towel around his waist. The first time we both got into the room, it was awkward. I felt uncomfortable, but with the passing time I got accustomed to. It kinda brought us together and allowed me to settle down faster. Eliot is a father and a brother to me. Sometimes we are a softy for each other...

Sorry, wrong wording, emotional for each other. In my case because I no longer have my parents and well... It brought me peace, knowing that someone cares for me. And Eliot being able to get accustomed to the entity that took Maxwell away. It... Was rough. I had to do the chores more often than Eliot. His emotional state was... bad, awful.

I tried and kept him company for at least three months to adapt to this sudden change. Levy had problems while trying to leave, mostly because of how Eliot was. I told her that he would be fine. He might be like this for a while, but he will be able to adapt.

Honestly, I felt like I was taking care of a child. *Smiles gently*. I became a care taker for him, cooked food, which he enjoyed a lot. Simple foods with a bit of spices makes them taste better. I also got his mind occupied with my cooking, asking him to help me.

His recovery was slow, but he finally understood that the body of his son was the only thing that stayed. He requested some stuff I did for him like... hugs and, well... what Maxwell would normally do. I had to deny anything that Maxwell would do, and it kinda hurt him. Still, I did what I could, associating my self separated from Maxwell.

Maxwell could not write, but I could, It took me some time to adapt to the alphabet they had. The alphabet they use is simple made of simple figures compared to the spell books alphabet, that one is hugely different. I started to do some crafts that would be helpful to relieve stress.

A ball of textiles that in the inside had rice. I told him to squeeze the ball when he would feel stressed or anxious. When he needed to hug something, I made him a plushie. Using cotton balls as a filling and some textiles that I bought from the item shop. It made a dent in my savings, but if it was for Eliot, I decided it was worth the trouble.

He might be a soldier and takes care of the village, but everyone has a breaking point and a vulnerability. I could not bear the thought of leaving Eliot weeping alone. Even if he was a stranger, it felt wrong. The plushie was from an animal, Eliot gave me an idea of what animal he would like. He loves to see red pandas.

They are not native to our forest, but they can be seen sometimes around mid-spring. I tried to make one as simple as possible. Making sure the features of a red panda would make it clear what it was. It took months, but once it was done I could see a smile on Eliot. It is the small things that work in one's person's heart.

I let my self relax in the tub. While Eliot enters and sits at the opposite side of me.

Alex: I can't believe you could make something like this.

Eliot: Do not think I was the only one working in this, the chief helped too.

Alex: I know, ever since he knew I came to a different world, he asks about my recipes.

I chuckle.

Alex: He really loves cooking.

Eliot: I know, even with your cooking. I could see him with a big smile beaming from ear to ear.

Eliot: Yesterday was fun for him.

Alex: He barely gets free time thanks to the tavern, right?

Eliot: Sadly yes. He has been busy lately. We had more people passing our village. It is good, but...

Alex: Could it mean that there are problems where they come from?

Eliot: Yes. I noticed that our visitors are mainly humans.

Alex: Strange... Did something similar happened years ago?

Eliot: Not that I can remember.

Alex: Hmmm...

Alex's mind: If the history theory is true, something happened that created a war and difficulties. That made this kind of migration of people to happen.

Eliot: Would you share what are you thinking?

Alex: Well... In my world, we have a theory...

Eliot: A theory?

Alex: Something that predicts a future... No, is not magic nor precognition, is common sense...

Alex: Actually, is foresight now that I think about it. Kinda like a prophecy. But it does not require Mana to use it.

Alex: Let me make it simple. Let's say that the war that happened between Beast fallen and humans happens again in the future, that is what I know as a spiral theory.

Alex: The events of the past will repeat in the future. Not in the same way, but similar in having something to do with how people change.

Alex: It might not be in months, but it could be years, decades, centuries, millennials. You get the point, right?

Eliot: Ehh... Kinda?

Eliot: So what you are saying is that if a war happened in the past, it can happen again in the future?

Alex: Yes. My world passed through multiple wars. All of them changed the way of people thinking. We have a more peaceful world thanks to it.

Alex: But... Recently was changed by a decease. During... something like a plague.

Eliot: Oh god, do not remind me of those times.

Alex: Did something similar happened here?

Eliot: Yes, it was horrible.

Alex: Want to know how we protected our selves in the times we got a plague?

Eliot: Yes.

Alex: Hygiene or better known to me sanitation.

Eliot was... surprised? Shocked? I could not tell at a glance.

Eliot: You mean that...

Alex: Yes, using the soap I made with items and cleaning the same rags and clothing with the solution can stop a plague. But that's only in your case.

Alex: You still have to use soap to clean plates and surfaces. Use a rag to cover your mouth and nose. And move away from touching the people who got affected.

Alex: It is not a cure, but it prevents how fast it spreads and lowers the possibility of you getting it. You would also have to use the soap to clean your hands every time you touch an item.

Alex: I'm sure you noticed that I run my hands in water before I cook for you guys, right? That's one of the reasons I do it so often.

Eliot: Wow...

Alex: But that's for normal deceases. Curses are a whole different thing. Not to mention a more difficult thing to fight that has yet to be discovered here.

Eliot: What kind of thing?

Alex: Uh... Are you sure you want to know?

I noticed doubt in Eliot. Still he wanted to know.

Alex: I'm warning you. This will make you a bit paranoid.

He took a second to reconsider.

Eliot: Actually, it is better that I do not know that.

I smile and sigh in a relief. Explaining Viruses and bacteria to people with barely any knowledge on the medical field can make them paranoid in this age.

Alex: Well, is time to leave...

The sun is passing through the opening on top of the roof. Meaning that the morning has passed fast. It is not midday, but close to it.

While drying off, I made sure to face Eliot.

Alex: Did you need help today with anything, father?

Eliot: Huh?

Eliot turned his head to me, I took him out of what ever he was thinking.

Alex: Did you need help today with anything?

Eliot: No, we have a free day today. The Item shop is doing inventory revision, and the orders will arrive later.

Eliot: The blacksmith is still waiting for their orders too, so we can not do anything.

Eliot: As for the INN & Tavern, they have enough to last for days before asking us to hunt.

Alex: Alright, I will be with Aiden, he will help me understand a bit better how to trade.

Eliot: Oh? Wanting to become a trader?

Alex: No, just information I need once I leave.

Eliot: R-right...

Alex: *Sighs*. Sorry, father. I know you guys want me to stay, but I need to make my own life. I can't stay here, but I promise to visit.

I could see a slight smile.

Eliot: I know... But it still...

I sigh and take my leave.

I leave the tub room and change in the other room. Once done, I go back inside the house, enter the kitchen and prepare food again for a party of people.

Alex's mind: let's see.

I do an inventory check of what I could make.

The items I see would allow me to make multiple kinds of foods from my hometown, but... hot peppers are the problem. Many of the recipes I know require hot peppers. Something I want to avoid in the mornings. I did put salsa yesterday, but it was for me, not for them. Something clicks in my mind, putting together a recipe that I know too well.

Alex's mind: Tostadas de huevo ranchero!

(Tostadas de huevo ranchero: are also known as toasted farmer's egg. That's the literal translation. They are toasted tortilla with eggs, beans, pico de gallo, avocado, cream, and cheese.)

While preparing the ingredients and the eggs. I heard familiar footsteps, but these steps were working like an echo. I turned around and saw Nayoko with Samuel walking out of the room. Though, I hurriedly moved my face back at the box. I was taking plates and pots that had been cleaned up by Eliot.

Samuel: Good morning...

He said with a groggy voice and yawning at the end.

I put down a wooden plate with different food for Nayoko. I do feed him, but most of the time he is out. My room has a small trap door that he can use to get in. I asked one of the carpenters if he could make one. I was surprised when he agreed, since it could be useful even for normal dogs.

Dog Beast fallen exist, but they exist due to an experiment on the kingdom of Celes. I have yet to see them, but many books depict them as loyal to the Celes kingdom. Also, it is weird because domestic animals like dogs and cats exist... I can't wrap my head about that fact.

Alex: Did you sleep well?

Samuel: I did!

He said with a happy tone to his voice.

Alex: I'm sure... I can tell.

I stand up and grab a rag and a piece of ice and bundle it together with a small rope.

Samuel: Why?

Alex: I do not know... Maybe you should use this.

I turn to look directly at his face and give him the rag that now has become a pouch with ice.

Samuel: What is this for?

Alex: I would lower my gaze, but I can't.

Samuel: What do-

He immediately cuts himself up and covers his pink member. Like a canine, they do have some resemblance to their feral counterpart... Still, it is a bit unsettling to think they can have that.

Alex's mind: It took only a second to burn that image in my mind...

I do have a pervert mind, but I have been busy. Ever since I have woken up to this world, I was doing chores, and it never passed through my mind. Now though...

Alex's mind: God, no, I do not need to think about that stuff now. First, I have to leave if I want to search for that kind of stuff...

Alex's mind: This is not the time or place to think about that!

My cheeks felt warm once I noticed I have been staring at Samuel.

Alex: What are you doing standing there! Go and change in my room!

I nearly trow him a plate. Once I notice he doesn't move at all.

Samuel: Sorry!

He starts to run into my room to change. He just needed a loincloth, but still it was awkward to see him completely naked.

Alex: Saying sorry does not fix it! And use the ice to help with that.

Samuel: Got it!

I sigh and shake my head.

Alex's mind: Jeez, Samuel, I thought you would be at least decent... Maybe I will ask Aiden to come to sleep over... Samuel needs a room for himself until they finish fixing the room.

I know that those rooms take time to fix due to being in the second floor. Also, they have to make sure that they work in it while the Tavern is closed.

I start a fire in the fireplace, but before I start cooking with a pan, I hear a knock in the door.

Alex: Who is it?!

I yell at the entrance. Many would answer like "Coming!" or "just a second!". But I learned that it is better to ask who is about to enter your house. I still do not understand why I just do.

Aiden: Aiden and Lucas!

I go over to the door and open it for them to enter.

Alex: At least you both can enter a house by asking... Nothing like yesterday.

Knowing that probably was Samuel's idea at the start.

Aiden: Haah, yes compared to Samuel, I have class...

Alex: Don't you mean touch? Or etiquette?

Aiden: Etiquette?

Alex: Hmmm... Like a proper way to talk to people from different classes. Also, a way to act with people of higher class and dress properly.

I move some boxes to make space at the small table. And start cooking.

Lucas: What are you making?

Alex: Oh... Eggs with toasted tortillas. It goes with beans, diced tomatoes, onions, lettuce, cream, and cheese.

I notice their faces light up with sparkles in their eyes... Sometimes I wonder if I'm in an anime.

Alex: I know that the food here is bland, but why the lighted up faces?

Aiden: Because you are using cheese.

Lucas: No, because it is really expensive to have.

Alex: It really is easy to make cheese. Yesterday I told Oliver how to make some. Soon he will have a menu with it.

Lucas: You are joking.

I rise and eyebrow at Lucas.

Alex: I'm not Maxwell, remember? I come from a world that has vast knowledge on making stuff from scratch. Remember that I made soap, something that I'm sure it is only sold to kings and queens.

Lucas: I-I forgot about that.

I sigh, knowing where this is going.

Alex: Do not say anything else. It was tiring hearing that from Eliot. I no longer feel anything from it. But all of you do, do not keep digging yourself a hole.

Lucas looks at me confused, same Aiden.

Alex: It means to stop talking about it.

I notice a "Ahh" face from them, finally understanding. I roll my eyes.

I hear steps, but before that steps reach the corner, I ask.

Alex: Are you decent?

I did not turn around, but judging by the whimper, I can guess he did and feels bad about it.

Samuel: Y-yes.

I finally turn around and see Samuel wearing his loincloth. I smile at Samuel, seeing he is finally decent. Lucas and Aiden, look at questionably at me, expecting an answer. Not wanting to continue embarrassing Samuel, I just shrug at them.

I move a wooden stool for Eliot, since I sense him coming back to the house. I go to the door and open it for him. This sense thing is random now. Sometimes I feel a presence sometimes I do not.

Alex: We have guests.

I move my head towards the trio.

Eliot: Oh good morning Lucas, Aiden, Samuel.

All of them nod and answer back. Eliot waves at them and turns to look at me.

Eliot: I need to talk with you just for a moment. Come to my room.

I was confused but obliged to his request.

Alex: Sure, let me take out the food cooking and I will be there.

I finished the last portion that was for them and plated it towards them.

Alex: Enjoy! And no, there are no hot peppers in it.

I laugh a bit when I hear a sigh coming from Aiden and Lucas.

Alex: And for the two of you...

*Pointing at Aiden and Samuel.*

Alex: If you want more, you will need to wait for a bit.

I leave them to eat and go to Eliot's room.

When I enter, he is changed and dressed more properly. Though, he does not have a shirt or a tunic on.

Alex: What did you need me for?

Eliot's expression turns serious, and it scares me a bit. Knowing some of it, I can only guess why.

Playlist: I-Human - Modern Classical Bundle Pt. 2 (2022) (Full Album)

Time stamp for song while reading in video: 7. Walking with the sunrise - 21:47

Eliot: What happened at night?

The question trows me off guard. Still, I took my own bow that I made in my previous life. To be always honest, and tell the truth.

Alex: I talked with Aiden, Samuel, and Lucas. When Lucas and Aiden left, Samuel asked me to sleep with him. Why?

I saw an anger fill his face, somehow. I took a step backwards by the sudden shift.

Eliot: Did you do something with him?

Alex: What?! No! I told him he could sleep in the bed while I would sleep on the floor. He did not want me to do that, so he told me to sleep in the same bed with him.

I saw his hands turn into fists. This reminded me of something and snapped.

Alex: If you are suggesting what I think you are suspecting, You have a great imagination.

Eliot: What?!

Alex: If you think I had intercourse with him, you are wrong.

Alex: Remember Eliot! I'm not Maxwell!

I yelled the last part, in anger at him for forgetting who I was.

Alex: You know what... It is better that I leave. Knowing you. You will keep forgetting who I am, really.

Alex: I have commonsense, but you keep forgetting about it, and it is starting to bother me. Besides, you have no right to tell me who to like or who not to like.

Alex: I might be a kid, but I still have the means to survive on my own.

Eliot: Do not dare to talk back to me!

Alex: Sure, father...

I said mockingly. He started to get close to me.

Alex: Or should I say Eliot? I can and I will. If you do not wish to solve this by talking, then I'm leaving.

Eliot: No, you do not!

Eliot tried to grab my hand, but I swiftly moved away from his grasp.

Alex: I might not know how to fight, but one thing is sure. I can evade you, And I have better understanding than you.

I do not go to my room, with my hands made into fist I walk directly to the exit and leave the place.

Eliot follows behind me while moving towards the crossroads. He is yelling back.

Eliot: Wait, Alex!

Alex: No need to talk to you when the first thing you do is turn physical before allowing me to fully explain my self!

I said in frustration. His hands were fists before, right now I did not pay any attention to his body language.

Alex: Just leave me be!

My wings start to appear, and I start to float. Sparks surround my being while I try to move away from Eliot. Eliot's pace quickens, trying to grab at me, but with a single flutter of my wings I move away from him. Leaving him yelling back.

I took flight and started to just fly around the place, I needed silence and to take out some steam. Flying was incredibly exhausting for me. Still, the anger I had allowed me to continue without problems. This took me to Midday.

Time: Midday.

Exhausted, I landed on top of the INN & Tavern of Oliver. My back hurt a lot, I was panting trying to get air. How my wings work is similar to doing exercise with my legs. It requires stamina, and since I don't use them a lot, I run out of it quickly.

Alex's mind: Why? Why did it happen again?

~Flashback~

One time I was conversing with my father about something.

Father: Alex, why are you still in your room?

I was sixteen at the time. Ironic, similar to right now... I had a few bruises and a cut on my cheek from a fight I had in school. Keep in mind that this conversation was in Spanish.

Alex: Just... cleaning my room.

I hesitated answering.

Father: Can you open the door?

Alex: One second! I have furniture in the way.

I moved furniture simulating that I was cleaning, when in reality I was cleaning my cuts with a first aid kit. I hid the kit under my bed and continued on moving furniture as if it was to put it back in its place. Once I managed to move some stuff and actually clear a bunch of clothing from my floor, I opened the door.

Alex: What did you need help with?

Father: I needed help with these papers...

The papers were about bills of our home. My father although being American he can not read. I have to translate and explain everything for him. I barely had enough to understand what it was in the paper. It took me three years to fully comprehend and understand English.

Alex: These says something about the home insurance, this...

Alex: This one, it is for a payment on the internet.

Alex: And for this one...

Alex: It is about Health Insurance.

Father: Oh, thank you, wait...

Father: What happened to you?

He asked while having a worried expression and grabbing my head to inspect it.

Alex: Ehh... Nothing, I was playing Soccer with some friends and I got some cuts from the rocks lying around.

He grabbed my hand and continued to ask me again. This time I was caught.

Father: What about these bruises you have in your arms?

Alex: Nothing, I got hit during the game while passing the ball.

He then lifted my shirt, noticing the multiple bruises I had.

Father: No, what happened to you. Why did you not tell me?

Alex: Because you can not help me.

Father: What?!

Anger rising to his face.

Alex: What are you going to solve? They get told, expelled for a couple of days and back to hitting me again.

Alex: The school can not fix this. Neither you.

I said, pointing at him.

Father: Still, I need to know.

Alex: Nothing gets fixed either way.

I noticed his fist coming to my face and evaded the hit.

Alex: Sure fix it with a hit to my face! Like that would help me.

Father: You little-

Knowing my father, I just jolted my self out of the house. I lived close to a local park and decided to go there in the meantime. I managed to clear my mind and relax while laying down at the grass. By the time I returned home, my mother was worried about me. She had returned from work at the same fabric that my father worked at.

I got scolded by my mother and grounded, without technology like that would help. My classes had assignments that had to be done in a computer and required internet. You could guess how bad my grades would be once they noticed. I explained to my teachers about it and allowed me an extra day.

On my free time, I had to work on the assignments in the library. But the people molesting me took the opportunity to mock me in the library, since the librarian was there to stop them. They ended up leaving me alone after a couple of months, and I did not care. Honestly, I started to hate school.

I did not fully understand my work and had problems due to the language barrier. ELL (English Language Learners) classes never helped, I learned by watching videos and translating documents with the translator online, but at the end it just made me hate my self more.

Many would say I did not pay attention to classes, and they would be right. But because of the language barrier. I tried to learn the language and succeeded. At the same happened with the grades I tried, but my difficulty was that my learning speed is slow.

If it is not engaging, I would take days. If it was about math, I had to see a step-by-step process. Which they never did, it was skipped and not explained again. I fell behind my classes and had to take extra homework to at least pass them.

~End of Flashback~

Alex's mind: Now that I think about it my problems seem petty. Not worth at all, yet they felt so big.

Alex's mind: Even with the life I had, many could say I was fortunate. Yes, for the items I could have, for the place I could live. But...

Alex's mind: It was all in vain if I could not share it with anyone. I am a mess mentally, I keep overthinking... Maybe Eliot did want to talk, but I did not give him the opportunity.

Alex's mind: Like the saying goes... "You are free to make whatever choice you want, but you are not free from the consequences of the choice."

I sighed.

Alex: I keep walking back into memory lane.

I whine with an arm blocking the sunlight that is coming to my eyes. After a while I dose off in the roof.

Time: Nighttime.

When I woke up still feeling tired, the sky was dark with no stars to see, and the moon was visible. Brightly shining through the fog in the sky.

I stretched and prepared my self to get down. I had to flutter my wings slowly and calmly to slow down my descent to the ground. I managed to land safely. But not for long because I was tackled down by a fur ball.

Alex: Gah!

Nayoko had jumped at me again. Still, he is bigger and managed to make me fall in my back. He started to lick my face.

Alex: Haha, stop it, Nayoko.

Alex's mind: Why did that sound so... girl like?

I blink for a second, but I'm brought back to earth... or what ever the name of this world is... liking my face.

Alex: Heh... Sorry, sorry. I won't leave you.

I ruffle the fur on top of his head, while he nestled between my legs and sit in there. I passed my hands along his fur, massaging him, which allowed my heart to calm down. Also hugging him in the process.

Alex: Thanks for coming for me. But I guess I can not get back at the house. I will have to ask Aiden to let me sleep in his room.

The INN & Tavern has double beds, not single beds. According to Oliver, he told me that some people just like the extra space.

Playlist: 2 Hours of Celtic Music by Adrian von Ziegler (Part 1/3)

Time stamp for song while reading in video: Beautiful Dreams - 1:12:10

I hear steps behind me, I do not understand why I can no longer sense people around me. I could make a bit of the conversation while they were getting closer.

Aiden: You think he is okay?

Lucas: I hope so... I never have seen him angry... It was a bit scary.

Aiden: Poor Sam, I hope he is fine with Eliot.

Lucas: Do you think it had to do with what he said in the morning?

Aiden: Probably but-

Suddenly they stop. I can only guess their reactions, because I did not dare to look back.

I kept stroking Nayoko, both tails swaying peacefully enjoying my company.

Aiden: Is that?

Lucas: Who?

Lucas: It is! Hey Max-

Lucas: Again with the elbow?

I heard Lucas struggle with his breath.

Aiden: His name is Alex. Remember?

Lucas: Ugh... I feel like I would be full of bruises when I have to leave.

Alex: Hey...

Aiden: Thanks to the goddess, you are not harmed.

Alex: Haah... How is the situation on home...

Lucas and Aiden finally stood in front of me.

Aiden: Not... good.

Lucas: Eliot and Samuel started to discuss something, he told us to leave.

Alex: I can guess why...

Both looked at me with worried looks.

Alex: Can I stay with one of you guys? Just for tonight.

They looked at each other and started to play a game similar to rock, paper, and scissors. Instead of those they used Sword, Shield, and Spear. For what I would get, Spear defeats shield, Shield defeats sword, and Sword defeats Spear. At first, it did not make sense in my head. But it was just similar to rock, paper, scissors. So I did not think too much on it.

At the end, Aiden won, apparently with shield.

Aiden: Yes!

He said with a fist in the air.

It reminded me of Maxwell memories when they were young. Aiden had a childish soul inside, he loved the games of probability and luck. Most of the time he would win no matter what. Sometimes it was unfair, because he would win consecutive times.

Alex: Aiden, you are still the same on the inside.

Aiden: What do you mean?

Alex: Remember the books I gave you guys?

Aiden: Oh, I have not read it yet.

Lucas: What book?

Alex: Did you not get it?

I asked looking for an answer in Aiden.

Aiden: Oh right, here.

He fetches the book inside his bag and gives it to Lucas.

Alex: No, no, that is yours, Aiden.

Aiden: Oh... Let me see...

Aiden had a couple of books in his bag and took him a bit until he found it.

Aiden: This one.

Lucas book was different because I wanted to let him know how his actions made Maxwell feel. Though I feel like it might not have been a good idea to write... Well, it was already late. Besides, the color was different.

Alex: Did you read it?

Aiden: N-no...

I raise an eyebrow and cross my arms.

Alex: I do not know why, but I feel like you are laying.

Aiden: I-I do not know what are you talking about.

True to my memories of him, if he lied, he would get all nervous. A tiger being nervous and docile. Cute, but problematic for him. Each book had too much information, from what Maxwell knew to what he would feel with their actions. To the things he discovered from them. This was to let them know how much I know about them.

Though it is a scary thought now that I think about it. An unknown entity takes the body of your friend and knows about you. But you do not know anything about him. I can see my self being a creep...

Alex: Every book was specifically made for each and every one of you. If you read it, you will have to show your book to Lucas and Samuel.

Aiden: Damn it...

Alex: I thought so...

I just rub my face and sigh heavily.

Alex: Do not lie to me Aiden, I have put trust in you guys telling you about me.

Alex: I hate to lose the trust I have of you guys. If you guys need to know something about me, ask away. I'm an open book.

Alex: How much did you read?

Aiden: One page...

Alex: Really?

Aiden: Maybe two or three.

Alex: How many?

Aiden: ...

Alex: Aiden, how many pages did you read?

Aiden: T-ten...

I sigh in relief. He did not get to the secrets part.

Alex: Also... Lucas.

Lucas: Huh?

Alex: You might want to start reading that book tonight. There is a lot to tell about you.

Lucas: Why?

Alex: Well, you might be embarrassed for life if you do not read it. There is a lot of stuff in there. And it is not nice.

Lucas: ...

Alex: Just make sure to read it.

Alex: In the meantime, Aiden. Would you let me stay with you for tonight? I don't want to see Eliot today.

Aiden's look of defeat was changed rather quickly into a happy and joyful one. Talk about being fast.

Aiden: Sure!

He said happily with his tail swaying playfully.

Alex: Alright, Nayoko... can you go home and keep Samuel with company?

Nayoko seems to agree and goes running into the direction of my home. We enter the inn and go to the rooms. A corridor is in front of me, there are four rooms in the INN. The first two rooms are reserved for VIP's mostly important people or in case of emergency stay.

The other two are rented like any other rooms. The far away ones from the stairs are the rented ones.

Alex: Good night, Lucas... Please read the book.

Lucas: I got it, I got it.

He enters to the left room, waving his hand dismissively, and closes the door. There is an audible click, meaning he locked the door.

Aiden: Over here, Alex.

Alex: Lead the way.

I enter the room and see it is quite small. There is a small table with a bookshelf. There are candleholders in the walls keeping the room lighten up.

Aiden turns off a few, just keeping the one that is in the table on.

There I take out my gloves and put them inside my leather coat. I then take that out and take out my shoes. I also take a belt I had with a few flasks. The flasks I had are empty, mostly because when I go to the forest. I keep forgetting that I do not have a bag to store plants.

While I'm doing that, I notice Aiden with also undressing, leaving only his breeches on. I just turn away to let him go to bed first. And not make this more awkward than it feels to me.

Alex: Aiden...

Aiden: Yes?

Alex: Can I ask you something?

Aiden: Sure, what is it?

Alex: How do you feel about me taking Maxwell's body?

Aiden: ...

All I got was silence. I wanted to know, mostly because I still feel guilty about it. I had no choice in this, though... And my actions will always conflict with their wishes. What they expected me to act like. I was now a stranger to them with a familiar look. Someone they lost...

Aiden: Honestly, I do not know... It is still hard to wrap our heads around the idea.

Aiden: But you showed us that you wanted to be sincere. Truthful about what you will do. And told us about you, too.

Aiden: I still have doubts, but... I can see you are not trying to lie to us. More over, you are trying to be open about it.

Aiden sits at one corner of the bed. The moon reflects his body elegantly, his blue fur creates a wonder to my eyes. He looks beautiful. Delicate like a White tiger, and exotic.

(White tiger interesting facts: Because of their extreme rarity, they are bred in captivity. The last Wild White tiger was shot in the 1958.)

Aiden: Did he know about us feeling something for him?

That took me out of my trance.

Alex: Huh... Not that I know of... None of his memories have a mention of feeling something for you guys.

Alex: You know, Samuel asked me the same question...

Aiden turned to look at me.

Aiden: Did he?

Aiden: Wow...

I could tell that Aiden was deep in his mind. Thinking about something. I decided to take a sit by his side.

Alex: I had no choice in the matter. I really wish I could just let Maxwell stay here, but he vanished.

Aiden: ...

Aiden got up and looked at the moon through the window. His figure was breathtaking to me. Something stirred in me, and I was not comfortable with that feeling.

Alex's mind: Why? Why do you shake me to the core, Aiden?

Aiden: What about you?

Alex: What about me?

Aiden: Do you fell something for us?

Alex: ...

This time I did not wanted to answer. Something told me this was wrong, that I should not let my body be taken by anyone of them. I lowered my gaze and tried to suppress the thing that was stirring in me.

Aiden: Because I feel something... and I'm sure about it.

(*Incoming Transmission*
Computer: Requesting access to the database...
Computer: Access granted.
Computer: Accessing information on Beast fallen...
Computer: Information on Beast fallen, found.
Computer: Information on Beast fallen has been recently updated.
Computer: Nature of bond/imprint/love: Their bodies develop at 16 and Nature will become known to them. Their bonding calls by nature. They have a link known as Bond Mate. Bond Mate is natural as their instincts develop and get to know their best partner immediately in their sight. Both parties will feel the bond become stronger and a pulse calling from their bodies will make itself known.
Though in humans it is rare to occur, they will also feel the bond. The bond can extend to multiple suitors, and the Beast fallen has to choose his partner. But there is an issue, both need to agree or else the bond will slowly break apart. A beast fallen can have a harem if it wishes to. But the bond will become weak, and fertility can drop quite drastically for the beast fallen.
Love does not affect the bond, nor it means that the bond has to be with love. But there is a great benefit if their bond is hold with love. Something difficult and yet to be experienced by many. There are also Soul Mates, who are naturally attracted by fate. Their story or should we say timeline will always unite them. But it will not mean that it will be flawless. Sometimes Soul Mates can never stay together, other times one dies after meeting each other.
Computer: End of information.
*End Of Transmission*)

He turns and looks at me. His eyes seem wild, looking at me like a prey. It makes my skin have goosebumps, and a chilling wave goes through my body.

Aiden: But, I do not want to force you.

I could not stop trembling, my body was starting to shake.

Alex's mind: what is going on to me? What is this feeling?

Aiden: You can feel it too, right?

He took firm steps towards me, I started to back up in the bed.

Aiden: Would you allow me...

He touched my cheek while towering over me, it sends sparks through my body.

Alex's mind: I never had this feeling in my life. It is... Accelerating.

Aiden: ... A night with you?

Alex: W-what kind of night do you mean?

My eyes darted away from him but moved back to him.

Aiden: I think you know...

He kissed my neck, making me gasp. I tried to move away, but my body stopped answering. All I could do was squirm under him.

Alex: Aiden... Please...

His hands traveled towards my back, lifting my shirt. His fur felt so soft, his pads were so leather like, it felt ticklish. I could barely speak the feeling... That feeling was undescribable. I wanted more, but not in this way.

Alex: Aiden... C-control yourself, please...

My mind managed to fight back that feeling and the stir in my body. Mine and his breathing was ragged, uncontrolled. We both seemed out of breath.

Aiden: Please... Let me have you...

Alex: I can... Only give you cuddles. Nothing more.

Aiden continued without asking my consent. Ignoring my pleads. My mind finally was able to control my body more, this time I separated a bit from him.

Alex: If... If you continue without my consent, I swear I will cut those off. I will not show mercy.

I reached for my dagger, still tucked on my right hip. I finally managed to have full control of my body. My face turned into a more serious matter. I was ready to fight if it was needed.

Aiden backed a way when he looked in my eyes.

Alex: I'm really warning you now. Try it again and I swear you will have nothing left under there.

That made Aiden break from his trance and he moved away.

Aiden: Sorry... I...

Alex: Was your instincts?

Aiden just nodded.

Alex: Thought so. Good thing I can resist it, or else you really would have been without your orbs under there.

I noticed a flinch and a shudder from him.

Alex: Like I said, I can only offer cuddles. Nothing more.

Aiden: I-I will take that.

Alex: Try something else again and you will regret it. No matter where you go, I will find you.

I heard a gulp. I was feeling tense, I stand up and grabbed a pillow and sat at a chair close to the window. I looked out at the moon. It was shinning brightly, illuminating the room. Even with one candle, the moon was really bright tonight.

Time: Midnight

Alex: This place...

Aiden: What?

Alex: I will miss this village when I leave.

I sat there to let my composure and my obvious... Wood return to normal. Aiden was already under the covers. After a while, I had enough time to relax and finally let fatigue get me. I strolled to one side of the bed and got my self under the blankets.

Alex: Because I know you would do something to me, I will cuddle you.

He was not facing me at all. He flinched at my touch, the sparks were gone. Something got in me during that time. Now, I felt nothing. It was as if I was under a spell.

Alex: Aiden, that was a spell?

Aiden: N-no. I can cast only spells that affect weapons, nothing more than that.

Alex: What was it?

Aiden: I... I do not know...

I had a feeling he knew about it, but did not want to talk about it.

We stayed up for longer than we wished to.

Aiden: Alex... can I?

Alex: What?

Aiden: Can I sing something?

Alex: If it helps you sleep, then sure.

Aiden: This song always calmed me down and helped me to fall asleep. I hope you like it.

Song named on YouTube: Secret Garden - Sleepsong lyrics

Lullaby: Sleepsong by Secret garden (duo). Rolf Løvland and Fionnuala Sherry. Featuring: Fionnuala Gill (Saoirse).

"Lay down your head and I'll sing you a lullaby
Back to the years of loo-li lai-lay
And I'll sing you to sleep and I'll sing you tomorrow
Bless you with love for the road that you go

May you sail far to the far fields of fortune
With diamonds and pearls at your head and your feet
And may you need never to banish misfortune
May you find kindness in all that you meet

May there always be angels to watch over you
To guide you each step of the way
To guard you and keep you safe from all harm
Loo-li, loo-li, lai-lay

May you bring love and may you bring happiness
Be loved in return to the end of your days
Now fall off to sleep, I'm not meaning to keep you
I'll just sit for a while and sing loo-li, lai-lay

May there always be angels to watch over you
To guide you each step of the way
To guard you and keep you safe from all harm
Loo-li, loo-li, lai-lay

Loo-li, loo-li, lai-lay..."

While he was singing, I scratched his ears like I would to a cat. He slowly started to melt to my touch. This relaxed him greatly. His voice was sweet, gentle. It was soothing hearing him sing. It made me feel sleepy.

Still he continued to sing it, the second time I joined him. He ended up falling under my embrace at me singing the song. The song was really sweet, it sounded like a lullaby for a kid to send him to sleep. I felt him purring and that lulled me to fall asleep.

To Be Continued...

(Summary: Writing done in 11 days. Word count according to Wattpad: 28,346. Actual total: 28,540.)

(Wow... It took a lot out of me, but this is just one part. We are experiencing something this time. Alex, and Aiden... I honestly did want something, but at the end someone had to control his emotions or things could have ended badly. Anyway, there is something for you the readers! Remember to comment, or else I will follow the original plan of the path.

Computer: Do you want Alex to become a Spell caster first, or try to learn Swordsmanship first?

For the second part of the chapter, we will finish training in trading and understanding how the coin works here. Then we will take training with Lucas and Samuel. Once that is done, we will get to know better Lucas, who has something to say to us. I wonder what it could be. That is all for now I hope you guys have enjoyed the story so far. Sooner or later we will see things turn sour...)