---POV: Lumi---

Materializing beside my sons bed, I settle into the chair waiting for me as I take in my surroundings with nostalgic wonder. Being able to experience the world for myself again feels like a dream coming true.

I slowly remember what it is like to be alive. Even if my body isn't yet completely corporal.

Reaching out to Arin I take his hand into mine, the feeling of touch is clear to me. As if in response to my presence Arin rolls over with his adorable face snuggling against me. His tails carefully winding around my arm, his soft fur making it comfortable.

Feeling the warmth coming from his actions, I am again made aware of how important the boy is to me. I really want to spoil him. However, I will have to be careful so he doesn’t become too dependent on the ones around him, allowing for a healthy growth.

Well, he is learning quickly. So I am not too worried.

Looking at Arin nestle up to me like that, a warm feeling wells up in me. This is something that even the former Lumi dearly wished for, so I am truly happy that I can take care of him.

Stretching my arm, I half-kneel besides my sons bed, causing him to cuddle up against my hand with a soft smile on his face. I have to admit, this smile heals me, especially with my recent thoughts…

Watching him pull in my arm to use as a pillow, memories of my young self come to mind. I remember being just as clingy back then as he is now… could it be that he inherited that from me?

Still, he always looks so innocent and defenseless when he sleeps, probably because ‘that man’ hasn't taught him yet how to keep vigilant while sleeping...

Is what i’d like to say if it wasn’t for Arin reacting to disturbances in a very unique way.

The last time a child tried to scare-attack Arin while he was sleeping, a rather intriguing scene unfolded. Let's just say, that child no longer feels like pranking others. The sudden shock coming from the defending magic-animals that instantly appeared back then was too big.

Well anyway, he never reacts that way as long as it is someone he trusts, which is why nobody really avoids him, even when he sleeps.

Looking at him yawn and shuffle a bit as he lies his head on my arm, I begin to slowly run my hand through his silky white-silver hair, causing his ears to flutter. Both his ears and tails quiver when I run my hand through his hair, his smile becoming noticeably brighter.

Shortly after, he threw his blanket off, his tails throwing it into the air. In reaction, I quickly push it away using magic, keeping it from falling back down on little Arin. Afterwards, I take my son into my arms and embrace him closely, making my way back over to the chair and sit down.

The bundle of cuteness in my arms didn't struggle, and just like the small child he is he leans on me, his eyes still tightly shut. He continues to play with my arm, holding my hand while he is peacefully snoozing, his ears continuing to twitch as I comb his silky hair.

Feeling myself at peace, I begin sinking into thoughts, things that have been worrying me.

I have been thinking rather often recently, especially about who I am and what I want, no finding the answer I seek.

I mean, I never truly was the real Lumi, as she died long ago and ascended. In this case I am no more than a piece of spirit she left behind, filled to the brim with memories and knowledge.

So, could it be that the feelings I have aren't really mine? Especially when it comes to... that person…

Why I am thinking of this…?

Looking down on my near corporal form, I closely inspect my hand and skin, wondering how I can exist this way. Yet, why do I question my own existence like this? Maybe because I now have a form that actually begins to resemble the original Lumi?

I don't know anymore, sometimes I feel it should be okay since I am a part of the original Lumi. Then again, I am not the original one…

It is confusing to the point where even I don't know what to think anymore, my mind and heart in disarray. But the worst part are these emotions rumbling within me, the increase of my heartbeat whenever I see that man…

Are those truly my feelings…?

While my mind continues to occupy such thoughts, I feel the grip on my right hand increase with Arin beginning to shuffle around. He only stopped after I continue to brush his hair, the soft texture running past my fingers.

Watching Arin act this way towards my negative thoughts, I can feel my heart grow warm again, my thoughts calming a bit. He always notices the states of mind of the people around him, so I wonder if this is a curse or a blessing. Anyway, thanking him in my heart I continue to lovingly embrace my son.

It is actually funny how much I can already materialize in the real world, seeing that yesterday morning I was no more than a remnant soul. I was barely capable of retaining my form for long, not even mentioning interaction with the real world.

Still, looking at the soft smile blossoming on little Arins face, I habitually also smile. Though I have to admit, his smile is addictive.

On the other hand, about my previous thoughts… maybe I should consult someone about it? I mean, sometimes you just need someone to talk to...

Sighting to myself, I move my fingers a little, sending a bit of wind-magic from my palm. It feels peculiar, finally being able to use magic again after all this time...

I don’t have to wait long, as already moments later Saria carefully opens the door and steps inside. Bowing towards me before closing the door behind her, she then just stands there, waiting for instructions.

Actually, looking at her professional look, I wouldn't guess that she and the Saria that keeps squealing in delight when carrying Arin are one and the same person.

Amused by her professional behavior I make a motion with my hand, inviting her to take a chair and sit near me to which she complies wordlessly.

Her movements are swift as she pulls up a chair nearby and takes a seat, her back straight while her dragon-tail rests on her side, not making any movement.

Her hands are clasped on her lap while facing opposite directions, an action usually done by sitting servants within the Fox-clan. However, this is an unusual behavior for a Dragon-Kin. Even more so for their servants who always sit by laying their hands openly on their legs, showing that they aren't hiding anything.

Still... taking a deep breath I face Saria with a steady gaze.

“Thanks for coming Saria… uhm, this may sound weird… can we talk?” (Lumi)

Saria stares at me for a moment, her brows raised as an awkward silence descends in the room.

*cough

Coughing I try to get Saria’s attention, prompting her to regain some semblance of movement.

“Uh... Yes Miss, how can I help?” (Saria)

Her speech is stammered and hurried, her eyes finally breaking away from mine. I am taken aback by said unusual behaviour.

Calming myself I try to reassure Saria, hoping she would regain herself a bit.

“Saria... you don't have to be so stiff around me, just call me... call me Lumi.” (Lumi)

Affirming my own thoughts, I answer Saria. She however keeps staying silent for quite a while, only answering after I waved my hand at her.

“Excuse me...however... Miss... I am not sure if I can call Miss like that...” (Saria)

Saria acts rather held back and unsure right now, which I think is unusual for the True Adult Dragon she is.

I wonder though, why is she only so stiff around me? Already back at the forest she would always remain in the background when I am there, but enjoy it when I am gone... Is there maybe something about me that makes her uncomfortable?

“Saria, is there something that makes you uncomfortable about me?” (Lumi)

I mean, if one doesn't know something, then ask. On the other hand, Saria appears shocked, her gaze wandering around the room before landing on Arin. She seems to be contemplating something... After a minute, she finally steadies her gaze and looks me in the eyes as she answers.

“Miss Lumi... it is just that... I am unsure of how I am to respond in your presence...” (Saria)

Seeing her distressed look, I somehow feel the need to pet her as well. Though I can't really displace Arin from my lap...

Seriously though, her behavior is so fixated and inflexible... wait? Am I not the same...?

Realizing myself a bit, I only return to reality when I notice Saria's worried gaze land on me.

Feeling uncomfortable with her gaze, I begin to explain why I called her here in the first place.

“Fuuh… Well it's fine, just call me the way you are most comfortable with.” (Lumi)

Receiving a nod of acknowledgment from Saria, I continue with what I originally called her for.

“It may sound weird Saria... yet I need advice. Recently, especially since I gained this more corporal form... I am confused as to who I truly am. I am not the former, Real Lumi, so who am I? I have a fully independent and functional soul, yet my memories and knowledge all come from her... so what am I supposed to do when all those feelings well up in me that aren't originally mine...?!?” (Lumi)

Like a dam, I just blurted everything out from inside, scared I might fear telling everything if I waited even for a moment. Though, even I didn't expect that towards the end of my sentence, tears fell from my eyes before rolling down my cheeks and falling down, accidentally wetting Arins hair a bit.

Quickly using my free arm, I wipe them away. However, opposite of me sits a stunned Saria. Her tail is raised, her eyes and mouth wide open. Confused, I look at her as she stares back at me, her eyes revealing shock and surprise.

“...Saria?” (Lumi)

Calling out to her, I try to get a reaction. Did I do something wrong? Is she okay?

Luckily Saria reacted to my call, muttering under her breath as she calms her breathing...

“Is she really... just like us...” (Saria)

I couldn't understand what Saria meant by muttering that, she did regain some of her dignity though, straightening her back once more. It took a while, yet her mouth began moving some time later.

“Miss... Lumi. I am unable to understand your predicament, especially since a situation like yours is hard to come by. I am truly sorry. However, if you are unsure about what to do with your feelings, please remember that if one waits too long to express them they might just crush you when it is too late, and I am speaking out of self-experience.

I do not know how Miss is feeling, I hope however, and also for the young master, that Miss will be able to accept who she is as well as where she comes from. I am unsure what to say to this, but like the young master likes to phrase it; 'She is my mother, and there is absolutely no one like her, neither past, present or future!' Miss, you already have a very unique and unshakable place within the young master's heart, something that appears to trump even that of his former caretakers. So I must ask Miss Lumi to truly think more of why Miss exists and whom you are, and not about whom you could have been.” (Saria)

Listening to her advice, I feel something clicking in my head. However, I still need time to think about this, it is just too fast...

Self-reprimanding me, I nearly miss how Saria stood up and began to leave the room. Just as she was about to leave through the door though, I feel like I understood what she meant by “feelings that might crush you”... It must have been painful for her...

“Saria!” (Lumi)

Calling out to her, I can see her halt while opening the door, her eyes staring at me with dark emotions repressed deep within...

Swallowing my saliva, I then say what is on my mind.

“Saria, thank you. I believe it must have been hard for you, and I don't want to pity you for what you had to go through, as that might just hurt even more... However, I hope you can move forward, just as I will try to do in the future. If you ever have something you need to talk about... please come to me.” (Lumi)

Finishing what I wanted to say, I continue to watch as Saria stands in the door-frame, unmoving.

Her expression tilted slightly, her eyes regaining a bit of luster.

“My pleasure... Lumi” (Saria)

With those words, and before I could answer, she immediately opened the door and left, closing it behind her.

Seeing her act this hasty, I am left a bit dumbfounded. Her Eyes did regain their luster, so I am not worried about her. However, just as much as she faces her past, I will have to face mine.. I wonder how I’ll manage…?

What I was unaware off however, was that shortly after Saria left the room she broke out in tears. She cried in front of the door as she knelt down, unable to repress the tears shedding from her eyes. So she just knelt there, her injured heart surfacing once more, refusing to be unattended to any longer.

I could even hear her painful whimpers through the door, the silent cry of pain echoing in the hall. In the end I couldn’t just look any longer, and carrying Arin with me, I opened the door and guided the crying Saria inside, comforting her to the best of my abilities.

I don’t know if Arin is actually awake or even aware of what is occurring, yet he started to release a steady stream of warm mana into the air, giving comfort to Saria.

In the end I stayed with her for over an hour, just standing by her side and comforting her.

It was a good experience for both her and me...

It was also this that was the beginning of my friendship with Saria, whom in the near and far future I would often meet and talk with, allowing us to share our burdens.

For now however, I tried to grasp myself, thinking about what I heard from Saria. 'Whom I am and not who I was...' was that it?

Still, watching Saria calm down as her breathing evened out again, I could only show a relaxed smile. Under her breath, Saria thanked me, before letting me take a seat again.

Saria shows a bright expression, even with the tears and snot-marks remaining on her face. Still, I never thought that she could show such beauty just by releasing some of the shackles holding down her heart.

My thoughts swirling in my head, I don't even notice my eyelids closing and my consciousness leaving me. I didn't think that even souls and spirits could feel sleepy… Well, I was active already for a long period of time…

And so, with the sight of the peacefully smiling Saria and my sleeping son in front of me, I give in to the darkness approaching me and enter my first real sleep within this world, only to be later woken up by a bunch of brightly smiling faces...

...

POV: Arin

Feeling my mind slowly clear up from having just awoken, a relaxed yawn escapes me. Stretching myself while looking around, I find Uncle Black and the girls gazing at me curiously with all of them have strong and warm emotions gushing out.

Soon after I realize why, as Mom continues to hug me even as she’s asleep. She even has her tails surround herself and me, something I can tell is meant to protect me. Her expression is slightly troubled however, her eyes shaking. Maybe she is having a nightmare?

She continues to murmur words under her breath, sometimes even twitching with her ears as she strengthened her hold on me. I don't feel pain however, so I just remain still, waiting for her to calm down.

It didn't take long, as shortly after I moved a bit, she immediately regained herself and slowly woke up, her eyes opening as her tails drooped down.

Watching me with warm eyes as I sit on her lap, mom squeezes me in her arms while a happy smile forms on her lips.

Beginning to struggle from being squeezed like this, Mom finally let go of me and placed me back on the ground, lifting herself up a few moments later. Her complexion changed a lot, and even the girls become astonished by her near-corporal body, with Anna even mentioning something about her being jealous of her bust-size.

Though, could someone tell me what a bust-size is? Kinda sounds like bus, but what does Mom have to do with buses?

Asking that question to Anna, she immediately turned red, while Alice nearby stifled a laugh.

“Arin, you can ask that question when you are older, so please don't ask, right now this isn't important!” (Anna)

Slightly panicking, Anna screamed as such, her face flushing crimson.

Also, seeing Uncle Black nod towards said topic, I just accept it and drop the matter.

Looking around, I can find Saria walk over with my shoes in her hand, as well as my jacket and socks. Placing them in front of me, she helps me put them on. Somehow her eyes are red and tear marks can be seen.

Did she cry?

Looking at her face, she soon notices my gaze and turns away, quickly using magic to get rid of the traces. The others and I are all a bit confused by this gesture, with only Mom seemingly understanding what is happening.

In order to comfort her, Mom stood up and approached Sari, pulling her into a hug with her arms and tails, waiting for a while until she calmed down. Afterwards she smiled towards her once again before approaching me, the expression of both of them showing a weird hint of melancholy yet mixed with happiness.

Afterwards, once Mom arrived at my side, she gently rubbed my head once before vanishing from sight. The smoke she turned into began gathering again and fused back with my mind-space, letting me feel her presence inside.

Though, I did wonder if Mom could now stay outside permanently, but it appears that she is still not able to stay out indefinitely. She said that she still requires a lot of rest after materializing for such a long amount of time.

That aside, after Saria calmed down and everyone was ready, Uncle Black announced our afternoon-program with a loud voice, even if it wasn't very spirited.

"Everyone, due to my duty as an aid in choosing and *cough* coercing *cough* one of the royal-descendants to take over the throne, I will have several Situation to take care off. Therefore, for this afternoon, in order for you guys not to get bored, I organized for one of the locals to guide you through the city. Saria will accompany you, so should you need something, please ask her. That is all from my side, have a nice afternoon." (Uncle Black)

With those words, Uncle Black gave me one last hug and said goodbye to the others before leaving, the sound of his steps becoming more distant. Actually, when Uncle Black hugged me, I felt him planting a tiny magic-formation on my clothes, probably for him to know where I am at all times.

Due to being here for the first time, I can accept it. Usually though, I really dislike this kind of setup.

Well anyway, pushing senseless thoughts aside, our whole group makes its way out of the castle where a pair of young elves with simple clothing greets us. Both share the same green hair and blue eyes, yet while the male has a tall and muscular stature, the girl appears to be on the smaller side, nearly hidden in the shadow of the male. Both of them share similar features, with even the aura they have being similar... could it be they are siblings? Maybe even twins...

With such expectations, our group approached the two and greeted them, both returning it and introducing themselves.

“Hello, I'm Marillene, and this is my older Brother Larso. It is and honor to meet you, honored guests.” (Marillene)

The girl of the two introduced herself and her brother, making a small gesture to show respect. Yet, they didn't appear to be twins.. a shame...

Still, with them having finished introducing themselves, we also introduced ourselves.

“Nice to meet you, I'm Arin.”

“I'm Anna!”

“Alice, nice to meet you.”

“I'm... Sumi...”

“My name is Saria, the caretaker of young master. Should you require my assistance, please call me.”

Everyone of us introduced themselves, with Sumi being the only one hiding herself, probably still not accustomed to talking with unknown people.

Well, I can't blame her after what she had to go through.

“Thank you very much. Well, I believe you have been informed of this, but the two of us will be guiding you through the town today, ranging from visiting shops to sightseeing. Everyone ready?” (Marillene)

Marillene explained to us afterwards what she had planned today, with her brother nodding beside her. He doesn't seem like the talkative type, yet he does have a very calm aura...

Anyway, with all preparations done, I once more turn around to finally take a look at the large castle we just came from. Sadly, due to us standing right beside it, I am unable to really see much. Also, due to the uneven way it is built, I can barely make out its structure. I can see however that there is a giant crown of a crystalline tree hovering far above, casting a long shadow over the whole city.

It isn't as large as the World-Tree by far, yet still immensely impressive.

*CLAP!!!*

“yelp...” (Arin)

Being lost in thought, I nearly jump in fright when a loud noise reverberates next to my ears. Rapidly turning around , all I can see is Anna's stupid grin, her face revealing how much she enjoyed my reaction. Looking at her hands, I conclude that the noise must have been her clapping her hands right beside my ears.

I really have to pay more attention to my surroundings. Actually, the noise was really loud, and with my sensibility added on I could still feel the sound reverberating in my head, my tails still standing on end.

Due to the situation of the Elves, such as that they don't have outsiders here and will keep secrets of the World-Tree no matter what, I am allowed to have all my ten tails active, causing me to feel unnaturally relaxed.

Is that the reason I didn't notice Anna approaching me...?

Still, having finally calmed down, my tails and ears drop down low. I am angry... this wasn't funny at all, no matter how much the others around are trying to stifle their laughter.

“pff... Arin, your yelp was so adorable...” (Anna)

Watching Anna stifle a smile while saying that, my mood only becomes worse. Also, looking at the others around, including Sumi who are having trouble keeping control over themselves, I feel mad.

Even the two elf-siblings keep watching me with a warm gaze, their eyes openly displaying their laughing intent.

In anger, I begin triggering my mana which kinda overreacts. I only wanted to trigger a tiny distortion in Space in order to surprise Anna, yet for whatever reason everything around me suddenly distorted, and before I knew it, I stood on top of a building.

Surprised, I temporarily just stare in shock. This feeling... is this how Space-Magic truly works?

I wasn't sure, yet something felt different. Every time I tried using space-magic before, I would use it on myself, trying to make a connection to another place...but nothing would happen... what is different this time?

Looking around, I finally spot the others that were laughing until a moment ago. Several hundred meters away they were still standing near the palace-entrance. Me however, I am standing on a building a bit inwards, somewhere close to the palace...

Wasn't I looking at this house when I triggered the space-magic?

Actually, are those my clothes lying there on the grass? Looking down, I finally realize that I was naked, with only my tails covering me... Is this a side-effect from teleportation?

Feeling my face flush in embarrassment, I cover myself with the various tails I own. Don't I have some clothing somewhere...? I hope no one is watching...

Hurried, I take a look at myself. Sadly, everything was gone, even my underwear. Wait, no.... Not everything was gone. Looking at the pendant dangling on my neck as well as the ring decorating my finger, I heave a sigh in relief.

Willing it, the pendant dissolves and slowly gains in mass, beginning to spread out all around my body. Yes, it is my Magic-Essence, which I haven't used in quite a while.

Remembering it, I must have given up on it after realizing it hadn't been able to have physical substance. I did continue feeding it mana however, so I hope it can at least fulfill its intended function.

Feeling the substance that feels like an extension of myself slowly take form, I will it to turn into a comfy white hoodie with gray cargo-pants and blue sneakers my size. Of course, can't forget underwear... In the end, it easily adjusts itself, and feeling the warmth it gives me, I can feel hope well up in me.

Looking at the finished product, I find myself surprised. Touching it works just fine, it even has the comfy touch of the synthetic materials I remember from earth. It might actually be even better than that. Looking down, I even realize that I am no longer standing on the rough roof of the building, but instead have the pleasant feel of modern soles under my feet.

Truly, I have a feeling this essence can even defend against a certain degree of attacks already, though I will have to test this out first. I should inform Uncle Black before I test it, I don’t want the drama like last time happening again... It will probably not reach Uncle Blacks level any time soon though. After all, Uncle Blacks Magic-Essence can even defend against serious strikes and magical-attacks...

Those thoughts aside, and losing myself in the snugly feeling of my hoody, I pull up the hood and cover my head. However, my ears are forcefully pushed down like this, so I adjust small details here and there to make it comfortable, such as two holes in my hood for the latter...

Delighted, I once more take a look at the group of companions that were laughing at me a moment ago. Now who is laughing, ha?

Crouching down and erasing my presence the way I was taught (and figured out myself a little), I continue watching the now rowdy crew of companions. No one was laughing, with Saria and the elfs seriously inspecting my left-behind clothes while Anna was running around shouting my name.

“Arin, I'm sorry I scared you, please come back.” (Anna)

Nearly pleading, with tears threatening to come from her eyes, Anna ran around calling my name.

The feeling she gives off is genuine, I still feel indignant however. Actually, sharpening my hearing a bit, I can hear the voices of the other girls, including Sumi who call my name as well.

“I'm sorry Arin, please come back. It was wrong of us to make fun of you, we all know how much you dislike being scared like that...” (Anna)

“Sorry... I didn't mean to… Arin!...” (Sumi)

Hearing their words, and feeling the honest emotions coming from them, I decide it is no longer required for me to hide myself.

So, utilizing my superior physical abilities, I jump from roof to roof while continuously killing my presence...

I have to admit though, the feeling is amazing, even better than back when I was playing Assassins Greed.

Feeling playful, I jump over the wall surrounding the palace using a bit of magic, allowing me to land on one of the large trees standing beside it.

Sitting down on one of the branches that is directly above the group, I then undo my stealth and speak aloud.

“Fine, I accept the apology, but please, stop with those jokes... With my sensitive hearing it isn't funny in the least!” (Arin)

I still feel a bit grumpy, unable to let go. So, swinging my legs back and forth to vent a bit of my temper, I continue looking down at them. Looking up, the others actually become astonished when spotting me. I am unsure if it is because I am wearing modern clothes or because I am sitting directly above them in a large tree...

Jumping down, I make a small roll in order to feather the landing. Uncle Black said I should not use magic, and even if required, only minimally. For that reason, I only cushioned the fall a bit using wind magic, letting it catch me should something go wrong.

Once I was on the ground, I stood in front of everyone, my hoodie covering my head but not my face.

"Arin… where did you get these clothes…" (Anna)

Confused, everyone continues to stare at me, or better, at the clothes I wear. I am honestly a little disappointed that that is the first thing she has to say… Actually, Anna's expression especially shows signs of longing, yet I tell her immediately that she can't have those due to their special properties.

Crestfallen, Anna remains silent, her face crunching up. I really would like to laugh at this display, yet knowing how much it hurts to be laughed at, I just keep my mouth shut.

Looking at the others, I stare at them one by one, wanting them to apologize. Sadly, it proved less effective as everyone's eyes turned warm once I stared at them angrily.

I couldn't understand the world anymore, why are they making such faces when I am angry!?

Looking at my confusion, Saria suddenly grabs my arm and makes me look at her, her expression being extremely serious. Not wanting to lose, I stare back, not backing down.

Before I know it however, Saria's face turns red and she begins to laugh, her eyes turning warm… WHY?!?

Faced with my confusion, she begins to explain to me what is happening.

"Young master, I may sound rude saying that, however… Even if Young master is Angry, you're adorable features are hard to take serious. I may even say that young master is too cute." (Saria)

Hearing Saria's reasoning, I am taken aback. How can someone not be taken seriously even if they look cute!? Angered and confused, I bellow once using water magic, having had enough of their antics.

---!

Before I know it, everyone in a ten meter radius of me got doused, the cold water cooling their heads. Luckily the weather is sunny with the air being warm, so there was no risk of them getting sick.

Letting out a breath, I then fill my lungs again in order to calm down. In the meantime, everyone around me was looking at me with shock, surprise evident on their faces. They only regain themselves once I used some of my wind-magic in order to blow-dry them, causing the girls hair to be all over the place.

*pff…. Hahahaha…

This time I had to laugh, as everyone's hair was standing up, their appearance reminding me of those crazy scientists in the tv-shows.

Lying on the floor, I held my stomach from all the laughing. Their shocked eyes, hairstyle and way they look at me, it is glorious!

Laughing hard, I notice late that everyone else joined me as well. In the end, everyone nearby laughed, inclusive the elf-siblings that are supposed to guide us. The only ones confused were the guards passing nearby, not understanding anything.

In the end though, after everyone finally calmed down, I apologized for exploding like that, while the others apologized for their behavior towards me.

As a result, nearly half an hour later than we planned initially, we finally made our way towards the city, guided by the elf-siblings.