The colossal creature moved, and from the gaps between its scales, Noah could feel the relentless cold reaching him. He didn't know how much time had passed. Maybe it had been minutes or hours, perhaps days, where the darkness remained unmoving as something nearby crackled.

  Or would it be better to say it seemed to be spinning? He wasn't sure. Maybe both...?

  The blue glow flickered in the distance, clear and freezing.

  Raising his hand to the level of his eyes, he waited for his vision to adjust to the sudden brightness.

  Has she already finished merging with the Frozen Flame?

  A beat of wings made the darkness freeze. The phoenix roared, and its voice shook the shadows.

  If this place is somewhere within me... can she really do this kind of thing so easily? Wouldn't that hurt me somehow...?

  Checking his physical state, Noah noticed no difference.

  Apparently not... And anyway, it's not like this is my real body in the first place. Ah, yes...

  Unlike what he first thought, the lack of reaction was itself a sign of change. He just needed to pay attention to remember.

  Before, the cold of the Frozen Flame was affecting this form, unlike what's happening now.

  Turning back to the large bird, he watched her approach.

  When this happened, she hadn't yet absorbed the flame. So now that she has, she's also part of me and so can't affect me? More than the phoenix's normal flame, could I now access this upgraded version?

  The touch of her claws whitened the ground she stepped on, freezing it with each step. On one side, absolute darkness; on the other, a chilly light. They did not mix, as if an invisible line split the world between light and shadow, defined by the positions of the creatures.

  — I can't say it's a pleasure, but it’s not bad to meet you, human. It was particularly interesting to see you facing that curious child. Apparently, she still hasn't lost that nasty habit.

  Is that a laugh...?

  Noah looked at the half-dragon, who ignored him, then turned to the phoenix, who seemed strangely talkative.

  You want something from me, I suppose. The last times I interacted with beings like you, it always ended with me assuming some kind of troublesome responsibility.

  — Hmm, indeed... But why aren't you speaking to us out loud? It's amusing how your mind stays firm, but your body can't show the same confidence and commitment. I suppose that's why watching you never gets boring, especially with those beings...

  Glad to know my suffering amuses you.

  Sitting in nothingness, Noah's anxious mind was full of questions even as it fought to deny them. The questions came and were layered over each other so they wouldn't be noticed, yet he knew it was unnecessary. If they can see everything he does outside and even read his mind, the answer to his biggest doubt was more than obvious.

  — Yes, we know about what you call the "system," — the bird confirmed, as if telling the time to a stranger — even though we don't yet understand its logic, means, or creation. It's interesting, strange, and a little... absurd... To think that something could grant someone such a unique body.

  ...So you also know where I came from?

  — We are interconnected, human. We are one being, so to speak. Be it Noah or Xiao Yang. I thought you would've noticed by now.

  Yeah... He sighed. But it's not much fun to think there are two monsters who can read everything I think and know every detail of my being... No offense, of course.

  — No, I understand. Hmm, you feel not only the freedom once promised to you but also your uniqueness is being stolen. It's understandable. So, for us to live together as best as possible, let's settle this.

  I've already promised to take care of your children, and you want more?

  — Well, despite your peculiarities, you are still incapable. You can't even tell what's happening outside right now, can you? And this is your own body.

  Outside?!

  He jumped to his feet.

  What happened? Did something happen to that girl?

  — Not to her. — the red eyes approached, moving slowly — But, again, you owe me.

  Ignoring the serpent's final words, Noah stared at both. His mind wandered, aware that the people watching over the old man were the reason. He needed to leave that place. He wanted to see her, make sure she really was safe.

  — Just as you want to protect her, we want our children to grow up right, and for that, you need to stay alive as long as possible. We won't interfere in what you do, but will if necessary for your safety.

  This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.

  ...Is that all?

  The phoenix hesitated.

  — You have our bodies and can do what you want with them, but not with the cores. I ask that you give them to the children when they're born, it’ll help them to grow faster.

  I see, anything else?

  — You're not taking us seriously, human!

  The red eyes glowed and Noah's body trembled.

  I am... He raised a hand, something hurt, and it certainly wasn’t his heart. I just want to leave this place, so just tell me what you want so I can do that quickly.

  Backing away, the serpent retreated.

  — There is something... I can't do it anymore, so now you have to fulfill it. See it as payment for saving that girl.

  And that would be..?

  — The Floating City... I want you to completely destroy it.

  Something burned in his chest. Noah felt a rage that wasn't his own. Something corrosive and cold, so heavy it closed his throat. It was pure thirst for revenge.

  He smiled as he felt such explosive emotion fill his body.

  This is a human city, I imagine.

  — Certainly... Why, will that be a problem?

  You’re asking even knowing the answer...?

  Straightening up, he sighed. If the emotions of the two could affect him, then he should also be able to control them. It took a while, but soon the tremors of his hands lessened. They didn't stop, but it was something.

  — Your mind is, in fact, interesting. — the phoenix commented.

  If we're done, then how do I leave this place?

  — How... just focus.

  Eyes closed, fists clenched. Noah felt the movements, able to visualize the beast curling up at his side and feel the wingbeats of the bird soon taking flight.

  Something changed compared to the empty space; it was a light, warm breeze that moved through his hair. He opened his eyes and the starry skies appeared ahead.

  Noah looked to the side and saw nothing. He raised himself, only to feel a growing discomfort spreading through his body, like needles.

  That stupid dragon... What the hell did she do while using my body?

  There were no words spoken nearby, just heavy, slow heartbeats and solitary, muffled sobs. Looking out the window, Noah felt something strange before his eyes. Ting was sitting alone on the grass, but what confused him were distortions that mingled with the space, ground, and air around. They flickered and vanished, even from his mind, allowing him to focus on what mattered at the moment.

  One, two... Two...? Where is that woman? Did she...

  He examined the surroundings. The blood on the ground was something new and strange, with abnormal color and smell.

  Poison? He supposed, then turned to the girl. His heart tightened with every sob, and his throat twisted in a knot. It wasn’t a pleasant feeling, but still, it didn’t make him angry, at most, worried.

  Swallowing hard, Noah jumped out the window. His feet touching the grass cut through the wind's silence.

  Thud!

  The sound of the landing caught her attention, making her turn. Their eyes met and Ting trembled. Her glance wavered, avoiding his, and she shrank back.

  She’s... afraid?

  Fusu came out the door and stopped, their eyes met and he quickly turned away.

  Both of them...

  Noah straightened up, feeling their wary and discreet gazes following him.

  —...What happened while I was unconscious? — he asked, leaving the two confused. Especially Ting, who was sure she'd seen him acting against one of the assassins.

  But... She tried to swallow something and failed, fighting to contain the shakes as Noah approached. Is there something different about him or am I mistaken...? Except for the eyes, he at least looks a bit more... human?

  The shadow made her eyes slowly rise, then meet his blue and red gaze above her.

  Yes, it is different...

  Noah knelt, looking at her as an equal.

  He doesn’t look at me as something irrelevant, like before. This is... concern...?

  It was a look Ting was quite used to receiving, she just didn’t understand why Noah in particular would show her such a feeling.

  Immersed in the tranquil, warm breeze, Noah let himself go for a moment. His warmed chest became lighter. His vision, clearer. But he had to surface, even if he wanted to sink into the depths of those waters.

  Sighing, he asked — Are you okay?

  What...? She froze. Is he really worried about me? By any chance, is he not crazy, right...?

  She nodded, as she was unsure what to say if she opened her mouth.

  — I see...

  Fusu watched him sit beside Ting and wondered what he should do. Interfere? But could he? No. Try to direct his attention elsewhere? Would it work? Maybe, but... would he have the courage? ...No. His mind gave him the answers before he could act. He sat on the porch, lying to himself that he'd protect her if anything happened, and always hoping it wouldn't, for he knew he wasn't capable.

  Shrinking back, Ting clutched the spatial bag in her hands to her chest. Her heartbeat was clear, showing just how anxious she was while waiting for the next words.

  — I... — Noah began, then stopped. He sighed — I don't know how long I've been asleep, but I'm sure you already know about what I asked your grandfather. Or maybe father, uncle? He seems too young to be your grandfather.

  Can he see through the transformation technique?! Both froze and their eyes widened.

  — Anyway, what I'm trying to say is, I think I was too hasty to ask for something like that. So, you don't have to feel obligated to accept me just because I helped you. If you prefer, just forget I was ever here.

  Fusu started to move at the same time, but got up faster than Noah. That couldn't happen, he couldn't allow it.

  If he leaves, who will protect her...?

  He felt pathetic thinking like that, but it was all he could imagine. Someone so strong can't be found anywhere else, let alone one who was in love. Before Noah could leave, he needed to do something. Or not...

  — What is it, do you have something to say to me? — he knelt, touching the hand holding his clothes and feeling the tremor that spread through her. He backed away.

  The strong don't care for those below them... Ting looked into his eyes, confused. Is that really true? If this is the real him, what was that "thing"? A momentary possession...?

  Saying nothing, she just patted the ground next to her.

  — So you want me to stay...? Are you sure?

  She nodded and Noah soon sat back down.

  What's the chance he really fell in love at first sight...? That question hammered in her mind. Would it really be safe to keep him close from now on? And if that strange version took over again, what should I do...?

  Looking away for a moment, she realized Noah was always watching her, then turned to him.

  No..., I think the strangest version is this one here. But if I keep him around, will he protect me...? Will he let me live?

  Sighing, Fusu went back to where he was. He didn't need to do anything, and that tormented him. He was putting a burden too heavy on such small, fragile shoulders.

  Sorry, Ting'er... Forgive me for being so cowardly.