Rooftop

AN: Oh god, I'm so sorry! I meant to post this chapter WEEKS ago! Well, not weeks, but DAYS ago! The next chapters have actually been up at y!Gallery for like, 2 weeks. ^__^; I always upload there, then usually do it here next, but I forgot! I'm sorry! But, that's all the more reason for you to join that community if you're over 18~! Links to it are in previous chapters and my old comments.

I wish I could personally thank all of you who leave me such wonderful, amazing, happy tear-inducing comments! But, even if you leave me your email, chances are, I'm NOT going to email you. :/ Sorry, but I'm just too lazy! Though, on y!Gallery, I can respond to comments immediately. I actually LOVE talking to fans!

ALSO, VERY IMPORTANT! This is only HALF of the chapter! The other half will be posted in a day or two when I have more time!

Enjoy!




The last strip of light disappeared from beneath that massive wing, and Ethan slouched, his eyes blinking spots at first as they adjusted. Great, he thought with a scowl. Just great. Now he has to endure another pitch-black ride to-

Light flooded the room, and Ethan flinched, blinking wide and looking around. What? Up on the ceiling there were those little philly things, all growing, or sticking, in a row along the middle of the small cavern they were in. Like a string of lights, sending down a soft glow over the room. But...If there were lights...and, as Ethan suddenly realized, a bench running around the inner curve of the room and down the middle too, comfortably seating the entire group that fit inside, then...

Why the hell had he and Fen been transported in the dark, and on the floor?!

Motherfuckers. He sneered to himself as the turtlebug rose up and began to move, like a great big train, though much smoother.

Every single extra aspect of this situation, as he discovered more and more pieces of it, made him angrier and angrier. They'd been chased, hunted, attacked, kidnapped, beaten, and then shipped like a pair of cattle through the forest. In the dark!

Motherfuckers!

Unconsciously, Ethan clenched his hands, turning them into fists, but he'd forgotten he'd been holding onto Pazu's hand still.

“Eep!” She squeaked, yanking her hand back from him and turned her perplexed eyes to him. “Master Ethan, what's wrong?!”

Then Ethan realized that Pazu was speaking English. Another Luftleutian who could speak his language? Were they just laying around the castle en masse, waiting for him to arrive? Why hadn't he realized it sooner? When they'd been talking in the dining hall, and she'd understood him introducing himself, of course she'd have to of been speaking English to know what he was saying. But he'd taken it for granted, not even thinking if she could understand him.

But...remembering back, Ethan was pretty sure that Pazu had not been speaking English...

“You can understand me?” Best to tread the waters first, and make sure she actually could.

“You mean, can I speak your language?” Pazu chirped, giving him a great big smile. “Yes! Of course!” Then she lifted one brow, smirking at him. “Did you not think I would?”

“...No, actually.” He admitted slowly. Why would he think that? “Do...Does everyone speak English too?”

Pazu laughed, the sound light and bird-like. “No, silly! I speak English because I was born on your side.”

“Really!” Ethan gasped, gaping at the slender female. “How?!”

She giggled again, leaning forward press her finger to her lips, signaling for quiet. “Careful.” She whispered, eyes bright with mirth. “You don't want to disturb the other passengers, do you?”

Glancing up, Ethan realized everyone in the room was now staring at him. Some stared openly, eyes large and interested as they locked gazes with him. The others, more discretely, looking though their hair or from a sidelong glance. Both were equally disquieting, and Ethan flushed rather uncomfortably. Tucking in on himself, he attempted to disappear. “I hate being stared at...” He whined pitiably.

But Pazu slid down her seat too, kind eyes averted. “Most of them have lost interest already, don't worry.”

Another look proved Pazu right, and Ethan sat up a little straighter, though he avoided the insistent attention from the few still studying him. “Sorry...” He muttered. “I didn't mean to yell before.”

“It's alright, Master Ethan.”

“Hey...” Ethan shifted awkwardly. “You don't have to call me that, Pazu. I'm not a master anything.”

“But you are his highness's mate.”

“But, I don't really...like it. Please? Just call me Ethan?”

Pazu nodded, her expression pleased. “Of course. Ethan.”

Ethan heaved a deep breath, relaxing somewhat. This was the most conversation he'd had with someone other than Fen for quite some time. He'd spoken with Asterac, but that had felt different. More like, someone doing a task and being polite, whereas Pazu seemed so much more interested in him. “I'm sorry, you were saying? About being...born on 'my side'? What...How did that happen?”

Pazu waved her hand. “Oh, my mother's fault. Silly woman.” She laughed. “Her and my father were on a short vacation while she was pregnant, and they ended up staying a few extra weeks. For whatever reason, I decided I wanted to be born early, and she went into labor there. They weren't near any portals at the time, so I was born over there. And since was too young to handle the flip, they had to keep me there. We moved to a town near a portal and my father would travel back and forth everyday for work. My mother stayed with me, teaching me how to alter myself to look like a human so I could play with other children. At the age of five, when I could finally be taken over, I'd already been acclimated to your side's culture.” She laughed again. “Once you've had pizza, you just can't live without it. So anyway, my parent's still live over there, but I came back here for college. I ended up getting an internship in the city, the very one we're going to now, as a cultural analyst and freelance interpretor. I'm so glad I was at the royal house today, or I never would have gotten the call to be your guide!” With a start, Pazu cut off, and Ethan watched her mossy-colored cheeks turn dark with a blush. “Sorry! I didn't mean to ramble! You must be bored to death hearing my history.”

Holy... “Not at all!” Ethan babbled excitedly, mind swarming with the rush of information. He was smart enough to realize just what he had on his hands. A veritable endless source of info about Fen's homeworld. All the questions he had with an answer in sight. “It's fascinating! Can you tell me more?”

With her brow creasing and a confused smile on her lips, Pazu shrugged. “Sure. But I love to talk, so you might regret saying that. What would you like to know about?”

After a moment's consideration, Ethan realized he might as well get started at the beginning. “Can you explain to me what you mean by 'the other side'? Fen told me this was the same planet as Earth, but I didn't believe him because no one's ever seen you guys before, and he kept saying stuff like 'other side' this and 'other side' that, but he never explained what that meant, and then Gevi and Asterac both said it too. But what does that mean? And what are these portals you keep talking about?” He gasped, raising his hand to cover his mouth. “Is this like the Twilight Zone?! Are there different dimensions?!”

There was no immediate reply, for Pazu seemed a little stunned. But then she whistled. “Goodness, that's a lot to take in at once. But you're saying your mate never told you about the Flip?”

Suppressing the urge to roll his eyes, Ethan shook his head. “No. Fen's never really been good at the whole 'sharing' thing. I didn't even know about Luftyland until we came here.”

That sent Pazu into a fit of giggles. “Luftyland?” She snickered again. “Is that what you call it?”

“What else would I call it?”

“Do you call your side 'Humanland'? Or 'Peopleworld'?” There was still amusement in her voice.

Okay, well that made sense. Ethan blushed in embarrassment. “Sorry. I didn't know the real name.”

“Aw, that's alright. I don't blame you. What with your mate not wanting to explain.” Her attention switched from him to the front of the room, and Ethan followed her gaze.

There was a map hung up there, and a couple of the other passengers were up examining it.

“Aldmoor.” Pazu pointed towards it, returning Ethan's attention as she drew her hand back. “That's the city we're going to now. And the name of the province we are in, which are much like your states, only bigger, is Itatra. There are 33 Provinces on this continent. Also more commonly known as 'North America' to you.” Pazu's voice became more serious, and Ethan realized she was entering guide-mode. “To the south is the continent of Engene, with only 29 Provinces. Engene is your 'South America'.”

“So, the land is the same, but just different names?” Ethan queried. How did that make sense?

“Precisely.” Pazu beamed at him. “Because your side and our side are identical physically. The names change because the people who named them changed.”

Ethan had to scratch his head. At first, that didn't really compute. “Why do both sides have the same...land and shapes? How can it be identical if it's not the same?”

“Our worlds, your side and my side, are separated by the smallest fraction of a layer. Somehow, when Earth was created, there must have been some sort of quake that shook them apart. They resided in the same place, but grew as two separate lands. Whereas two different forms of life and plants dominated on each side, the land did not change. For the differences between us, Ethan, why humans rule your side, and why Luftleutians rule here, are very significant. Relationships between lifeforms on either side had direct correlation with what type of life flourished. ”

Oh god. If Ethan wasn't sitting in a new world right this very instant, then he wouldn't believe a word of it. But it was just so astonishing! “...So...Did you have dinosaurs like us?”

“Of a sort. Most likely very similar kinds. But the real changes came when higher beings evolved from our descendants. To put it in it's simplest terms, your species came from monkeys, and mine came from birds. Though...” She made a face. “The birds I'm referring to are much different from the birds you know of.” She ruffled one of her wings discreetly, tapping against Ethan's side with a grin. “It'd have to be different to make such large people as us.”

“Wow...” Ethan breathed, running over what Pazu had said in his mind. “You're only talking about my side and your side, though. Are there more? Like, undiscovered sides?”

Pazu shook her head, quirking her mouth up on one side. “Nope. At least, not that we know of. Though, being as we've known about your side for so long, it's sort of hard to believe we've just missed others. Hmmm...” Her face became thoughtful, and she pulled out a small pouch from her pocket, showing it to Ethan and opening it. Her hand pulled out a small coin-like piece of metal. Though...it didn't look like any sort of metal he'd seen before. “Pretend this is a penny or something.” She instructed, handing it to him. “A coin you'd recognize”

In his palm, Ethan realized it wasn't metal at all, but some sort of smooth, yet heavy, stone. Like marble, perhaps. Each side had etchings on it, intricate pictures like he'd seen on any type of coin before.

“Now there are two sides to that coin you have. Think of your side, the human side, as the 'tails' side.” One of her long red nails tapped against it in his hand, making it clink. “And the heads side, is the Luftleutian side. Two sides of the same coin. Much like your and my world. To our knowledge, there are only the two.”

Ethan didn't quite believe that there were only two, because why not have more? Trouble was though, there really wasn't a way to disprove Pazu. So, he would accept what she was telling him on good faith. Putting on a teasing pout, he handed back the coin. “Why is my side tails? Why can't you be tails?”

With a laugh, the coin purse was put away, and Pazu lifted a brow at him. “Because it's my analogy. And who says you guys came first anyway?”

Ethan couldn't keep the snicker in. “Because we've got pizza.”

“Ha!” Pazu shook with laughter, slapping Ethan's arm good-naturedly. “That's funny! You've won me over, little one. That was pretty good.”

“Heh, thanks.” Ethan grinned, rubbing his arm and blushing. He wouldn't admit that the punch had hurt just a little. Because she was a girl and he was a guy. Just because she was taller and looked like she could break him, didn't mean he would act like a wuss.

“Oh, give me a minute, I just want to write a quick list for some things we can do today. I do better with lists.” A small pencil and sheaf of rolled up paper appeared from the pocket which held the coin purse, and Pazu bent over her knee to scribble some notes.

“That's fine.” Settling back in his seat, Ethan took a closer look at his surroundings. The room they were in, this interior of an animal, was oddly luxurious. The benches they sat on were built from some dark, mahogany-colored wood, ornately carved with low-risen backrests and armrests every couple feet or so. They didn't sit right up against the wall, most likely to leave room for wings, and the bench in the center of the room had seats on each side of the backrest, so either side had room for passengers. A higher look brought his line of sight to the wall, and Ethan saw little mosaic shapes in the sides. Upon closer inspection, Ethan realized it the natural pattern of the creature's shell. The memory of his first ride in one of these things, when he'd touched the wall and thought it to be some decoration, had him lifting up his hand again and running his fingers over the indentations behind him. His eyes followed the swirls and lines around the room, and that's how he realized every single Luftleutian was staring at him, their quiet conversations all but ceased.

He froze, not meeting anyone's eyes. Why were they looking? Because he was interested in the room? Was he acting stupid? Most of them were peering at him covertly, with a fake stretch or a quick twist of their head, others just watching him from the corners of their eyes. The few younger Luftleutians, though, they stared at him outright, not bothering to hide their curiosity.

“Pazu...” He whispered, tugging on the hem of his companion's shirt to get her attention. After she looked up with a blink, he discreetly motioned to the others. “Why is everyone...watching me again? Did I do something wrong again?”

The mossy-hued female peered around prudently, taking in the scene. Then she snickered. “Don't worry about it. It's probably because most of them haven't ever seen a human before.”

Ah, that made sense. It explained why the service staff at the castle had seemed in awe of him, and why the guards all stared at him like he had an extra pair of arms or something. Relaxing somewhat, Ethan tried to ignore all the eyes on him. Talk about uncomfortable. Being the center of attention wasn't really his forte. “...Is there any way to make it stop?” He whined, voice full of quiet desperation. There was no way he could deal with the whole ride like this.

Tapping her pencil against her chin in thought, Pazu shrugged. “I could strip naked and do a dance for everyone.”

Unexpectedly laughing, Ethan gave her a scandalized look. “You wouldn't.”

A matching chuckle. “No. But it would sure be interesting. Might scar those poor children for life.” In a more serious tone, she bobbed her head towards the aforementioned youngsters. “Why don't you give them a smile or a wave or something? Let them know you're not some foreign monster. Kids are more trusting, and once they feel at ease, the adults might as well.”

“They're...afraid of me? Of me?” How unexpected. Who'd be scared of him? He was almost the smallest person in the room. There was also his lack of claws, fangs, and wings. The worst he could do would be to swear at someone in English or something...

“Not so much afraid, as wary. You're something they've never seen before, and sometimes new things can be frightening. If you saw a strange animal out in the woods one day, one that you may have heard about, but never seen, would you go up and pet it?”

“No!” Ethan objected. “Of course not! But I'm not an animal.”

With an apologetic shrug, Pazu chewed on her pencil for a moment. “I know that. But, the principal is the same. I'm sure the first time you saw your mate, you didn't go running up to ask him about the weather.” Her gaze lowered again, and Pazu resumed her list.

Hm. Well, she had a point there. What had Ethan's reaction to Fen been the first time he'd seen the impressive male? Blind terror? Confusion? A deep-seated lust? Ethan grinned to himself. No, he hadn't been attracted to Fen immediately. His brain had been to busy trying to untangle his eyes to even hint at arousal. It wasn't until Fen touched him that...

That was a line a thought best left unexplored at the moment, and Ethan glanced up, meeting eyes with one of the younger children. A young boy, barely three feet tall and scrawny. He didn't even have wings. But, then Ethan remembered how Fen explained Luftleutians didn't get their wings until puberty.

The boy squeaked at the eye contact, ducking into his mother's side, who looked up, startled by her son's behavior. Her pretty face lifted to Ethan's, and he blushed, raising his hand slowly and giving a clumsy wave at her.

The effect was instantaneous. Several other Luftleutians who'd watched the exchange all started to chatter quietly among themselves, and the mother he'd directed it at smiled broadly, returning the gesture.

A huge grin, and then Ethan waved again, this time meeting the gaze of the young boy who was watching from behind his mother's arm. Another squeak and then the child was excitedly asking something to her mother, who glanced quickly at Ethan then back to the boy. She nodded once.

Ethan wasn't quite sure what had been asked, but the boy suddenly scooted off the bench he was on, and quickly scampered up to Ethan, stopping a few feet away and looking shy. “Hee-llo.” He whispered in broken, stilted English, breaking out in giggles before racing back to climb into his mother's lap.

Mouth hanging open in surprise, it took a second for Ethan to stammer out a reply. “Uh...H-Hello.”

The child giggled again, and wiggled in his mother's lap, bashful again. The woman was watching the exchange quite calmly, a kind look on her face. She ducked down to whisper something in her son's ear. After a pause, the boy looked up and spoke again.

“Tooli.” He squawked, pumping one tiny fist into the air proudly. “Hyaal reh Tooli. Tooli!”

A...name? Ethan couldn't be sure, but he was pretty sure the child, Tooli, had just introduced himself. And it was...beyond thrilling! He'd made a friend! Sort of. A new friend! Pazu was nice and all, but her presence was an obligation first, and a friend second. Steadying his voice, Ethan cleared his throat. “I'm Ethan.” One hand landed on his chest, indicating himself. “Ethan.”

Another fit of childish giggles, then suddenly all the children on board were approaching him. There were three others, aside from Tooli. And they all said their names to him, repeating his own in childlike amusement.

Pazu nudged his side. “Told you.” She whispered, giving him a wink before resuming her precise writing.

“Eee-thin, bery hukithe yad?” Tooli chirped loudly, tugging on Ethan's pants and pointing to his shoulders with one little finger.

Then all the other were repeating the same phrase, all clamoring up on the bench and twittering at him. “Um...I don't...understand...” He muttered lamely, holding up his hands and shrugging.

“Hukithe yad! Hukithe yad! Yad!” Tooli had climbed heavily onto his lap, bouncing on his knee.

Ethan grasped the child around the waist and kept him from falling off. “Whoa!” He warned, looking up in panic the mother across on the other bench, who was watching him delightedly and whispering with the woman sitting beside her.

“Pazu-” He gasped, catching Tooli who wiggled a little too far and nearly toppled off his knee again. “What are they saying?”

His travel-mate snickered and reached over to pat Tooli on the head. “Feeft gui yad ooli pa'am? Hukithat yad?”

Tooli nodded vigorously, and all the children stilled and stared at Ethan expectantly.

Pazu gave him another wink. “They just want to see your back. Though they know what you are, a human, none of them have ever seen one, and they've never seen an adult without wings.”

“My...back?” He returned his gaze to Tooli, who was beginning to bounce again. “You want to see my back? Pazu, how do I say...” Well, he wasn't quite sure what he wanted to say.

“Say, 'Ebe, hukit yad'. It means, 'Yes, I'll show you my back.' Well, it sums that up.” She laughed. “We can stick with simple phrases for now. They'll understand better.”

“Okay...Uh...Eee-bee...hoo-hookit yahd.” The words were strange as they left his lips, making some part of his psyche tingle.

Cheers erupted from the youth scattered around him and they all climbed up to stand on the bench, crowding at his sides. Little, tiny claws poked and pulled at the shirt on his back, where it didn't close completely due to his lack of wings. The pink skin was pinched and Ethan flinched, not really hurt by their weak prodding, but surprised at so many hands on him at once.

Normally the only one who touched him was Fen, so he was unused to this sort of closeness with others. It was nice though, and it made him smile. Lifting his head, he could see that all the other passengers were watching him openly now, most of them smiling or giggling at him. The wary stares of concern and scrutiny were gone, replaced by nicer looks.

Pazu sat quietly beside him, writing out her list and chatting with the elderly male at her side. Every now and then, she'd offer Ethan a phrase to talk to the children with, and they sat with him for the remainder of the ride. But all too soon, there was that bellow, the sound Ethan realized was the turtlebug announcing it's arrival, like a great big living train pulling into station.

Various parents around the room called to their children, who all made noises of general disappointment as they walked away from him. But Tooli gave him a hug before he wandered back to his mother, and, to Ethan's astonishment, a quick kiss to his cheek before the boy scampered away, giggling madly.

Rubbing his cheek which was damp with the child's spit, he blushed, glancing up and expecting to see the mother looking furious, or at the very least, disgusted. But she was only smiling at him, talking to her son and patting him on the head.

“She's...” Ducking his head, he leaned closer to Pazu. “She's not mad he kissed me?”

With a look of surprise, Pazu blinked at him. “Why would she be? Because your a stranger?”

“No...because I'm a...boy...”

Pazu snorted. “Ah, you humans. So many hang-ups with same-sex relations. I'd forgotten about that. No, she's not mad. In fact, from what I can hear, she's asking the boy if you're his new boyfriend.”

Ethan's eyebrows disappeared into his hairline. “Boyfriend?!”

With a snicker, Pazu poked his side. “She's just teasing, of course. He's far too young for you.” She shook her finger at him, half-jokingly scolding him. “Far too young.”

“Hey!” He pushed her hand away, laughing. “I've already got a boyfriend anyways.”

There was another bellow, and the floor shook slightly, making Ethan grip the wooden armrest beside him nervously. But other than the slight shake, there was no movement. The sound of voices outside had him sitting up straighter, flashbacks of the kidnapping in the forefront of his mind.

But there was no shouting this time, or angry men waiting for him. No, only the wall/wing opening up and bright sunshine pouring in, the animals on the ceiling all going dark at the external light. There man from earlier were outside, setting up the ramp for the passengers again, and in a calm and even line, everyone departed. Pazu stood and beckoned Ethan to follow.

“Stay close, okay? Don't get lost in the crowds. Hey, Ethan...?” She asked quietly.

“Yeah?” He asked, trying not to bump into anyone as they approached the wall.

“Have you ever been to New York City? Or a big city like that?”

Ethan had lived in a city, but it hadn't been much of one. “No, not really. Why?”

She grinned at him. “Get ready for one hell of a sight.”

Then they were outside, and Ethan couldn't see for a minute, the sun was so bright. There were trees, not as thick as the castle had, but still a lot of them. And other than them, Ethan couldn't see anything worth being looked at. The area they were in was a very small clearing, with a path that the turtlebug must have traveled on, and then this unloading space where some of the passengers were still gathered.

“Eee-thin! Eee-thin!” Came an overexcited call from the edge of the clearing.

A glance over showed little Tooli in an unfamiliar male's arms, most likely his father, since the mother was at their side. Tooli was pointing at him, directing the man's attention to him, and waving.

Ethan waved back somewhat sheepishly, seeing how the father gawked at him.

“Eee-thin! Quedyer, Ee-thin!” He shouted as his family started to walk away.

“He said 'Goodbye' to you.” Pazu informed.

“Bye, Tooli!” Ethan returned, knowing the message would get across. Truthfully, he was a little sad to see the boy go. His first friend in this new land. Such a cute child too.

“Alright!” Pazu clapped beside him, her face determined. “Let's go!” Then she began walking, following the path ahead of them where everyone else was filing through.

Ethan followed obediently, still not really impressed with the surroundings. It was only more trees and plant life. Yes, the foliage was beautiful and interesting, but he'd seen it before. Below his feet, the path was made of thousands of little pebbles, just like a cobblestone street, though more flat than the ones he'd seen on his own side. But wait a minute. They weren't exactly as hard as rocks. Bending down and touching them lightly proved them to be somewhat spongy, actually. Like dry sponges, if not stronger. It was probably because Luftleutians didn't wear any type of footwear. So this kept them from walking on the dirt, but didn't hurt their feet. How neat!

So intent was he on the thought-provoking road material, that Ethan didn't even realize he'd come out of the narrow path until he nearly bumped into Pazu.

“Oph! Sorry, I didn't-!” But he couldn't finish the sentence, because when he looked up, his voice died.

An enormous city! Pazu hadn't been kidding, dear god, because this was...Ethan gaped like a buffoon, his mouth hanging open. At first glance, it wasn't so complex, but the more he stared, the more amazing it was. A grand, vast area, much like back at the tree-castle, where there were those enormous, thick trees scattered about. Behind him, back where they'd gotten off the turtlebug, the tree line was much thicker, with those trees closer together and almost forming impenetrable walls. But here, there was much more open space. Looking up, he still couldn't see the sky, except for shining down from between the wide, umbrella-like branches near the top. These trees were different. The branches didn't begin until much higher up than the ones back at the castle. Almost like a protective ceiling.

And everywhere he looked, there were buildings. Huts, stalls, and food stands on the forest floor, and then winding up the trees themselves, were more structures, with little ramps rising up to some of them. Others had just wraparound floors. Those were probably so people could fly up to them and enter the stores.

Oh god, the noise. Ethan was just registering how noisy it was, with thousands of people milling about in groups or by themselves, purchasing wares or going into shops, flying up to those higher buildings and proving his guess true as they landed on the porches. Oh, so many of them. Every shade and color of the possible spectrum, vibrant and glorious. Ethan's ears and eyes threatened to shut down, there was just so much to take in.

A soft, slender hand gripped his own and tugged him forward. Pazu, who was looking at him in anticipation. “Amazing, isn't it? I'll never tire of the city. Come on, let's get out of the way.”

They were still standing near the path that led away from the exit area, and another roar heralded a new convoy coming through. More people were traveling around them, so Ethan let himself be pulled.

There was some sort of market in front of them, with vendors by the dozens and uncountable customers looking at the product. Pazu led him through, and Ethan could see they were food stalls. Vegetables and meat, some cooked, most freshly butchered or harvested. Not that Ethan could recognize any of the items, but he wished they could stop and get something. Not even to eat, but just to touch it.

Too focused on what they were passing instead of where they were going, even with Pazu leading him, Ethan still bumped into someone, and he gasped, looking up to see another human!

The guy was already walking away, hand in hand with some other male. And Ethan could have sworn he heard them speaking...French. Not that he understood it, but he recognized that language when he heard it.

“Pazu! There was a person! A person like me! A human!” He sputtered a little too loudly, keeping tight hold of her hand, but turning to see if the pair was still behind him. They weren't in sight.

“Oh? Yes, did that surprise you?” She halted off to the side of one of the stalls where people were eating some sort of cooked meat on a stick, and heaved a deep sigh. “Goodness, it's packed today. Must be a sale at the market or something. But what were you saying...? Oh! You saw a human.” Her mouth widened in a grin. “You seem shocked.”

And he was! “But...Back on the...thingy, nobody knew what I was, and you said they'd never seen a human before!”

“Oh, no, I said that those people on the schildkever probably hadn't ever seen a human. Mostly because those people were either from the castle or just passing through on their way to here from a smaller village. But here in the city, where the population is much higher, chances are there are quite a few humans. And also that the people here aren't as agog over you.”

Wait a minute... “You mean...they live here? Humans live on your side?!” But, why? How?! And why didn't Luftleutians live on his side? Though...Pazu had been born on his side. “Why don't we know about you then? Why don't humans know about this side? And Luftleutians?”

Here Pazu looked apologetic. “It seems that humans just aren't capable of knowing about things like this. The few times that diplomatic envoys have attempted to go over and spread awareness, they'd either been attacked by your military and captured, or hunted and murdered by those who don't understand.”

“Oh...” Fuck, humans were shitty. “Sorry...”

“You've got nothing to apologize for, little one.” Pazu winked. “You're one of the good ones.”

“I'm still a little confused as to why those people were so amazed by me if they know humans live on this side.”

With a laugh, Pazu wiggled her brows at him. “Have you ever seen a Drag Queen, Ethan?”

“What?! No!”

“But you've heard of them, right? You know what one is?”

“...Yeah.” He could sorta see where she was going with this.

“So, if you happened to see a Drag Queen walking down the street where you live, you'd stop and do a double-take, right? Or would you dismiss it instead.”

Well, come to think of it... “I'd probably stop and stare like an idiot...” Sheepishly rubbing the back of his neck, Ethan chuckled at himself. “Okay, okay. I can understand what you're saying.”

“Alright!” Pazu cheered, stretching her arms. “Now, we're here, and we've got some money for you to spend-”

“I have money?!”

“Yes, little one. It's from your Bonded's inheritance.”

...He wasn't even going to go there. Fen had an inheritance. Okay, so what? He was a prince, so that wasn't much of a shocker. Did Fen know about his inheritance though? The other had never really been one for expensive things, or...any kind of things really. He liked nature and simple comforts.

Like having their forest to run around in as he pleased. Or coming home to Ethan and a warm blanket. Ah well, Ethan could reap the benefits of his mate's funds for just a bit. Besides, he chuckled, this could count as repayment for the beginning of their relationship, when Fen had used Ethan's money without permission to buy a car. A car! Oye, seriously. Who did that?

Though, he could look back now and think fondly of it.

“So I just wanted to know if there was anything you'd like to do today?” Pazu continued, holding up the cloth purse she'd taken out earlier on their 'bus'.

Ethan turned to stare hungrily at the food stall beside them. Absolutely no idea what that mystery meat was, but god, if it didn't smell fantastic. He'd only eaten about an hour ago, but now he was feeling a bit hungry again. Maybe just a snack.

“Could we get something to eat?” He asked, indicating the vendor at their side. “Something small?”

Her yellow eyes swiveled to their side, taking in the scene. “Of course, though nothing from around here.” She leaned close to whisper, even though she was speaking English. “That stuff might look good, but nobody knows what's in it. Only those with strong stomachs should risk eating it. Come on, we'll go to a cafe or something. I'll introduce you to the world of Luftleutian desserts. My favorite place in the city is about five minutes away.” She turned to leave.

Ethan attempted to follow, but he took a bad step and ended up scraping his foot along the ground, making his feet rub uncomfortably against the inside of his sneakers. “Ugh.” He groaned, shifting his leg.

The other turned to look back at him. “What's wrong?”

“Ah, nothing.” He shifted his foot again, grimacing how his feet were starting to sweat in the fabric. “It's just my socks were dirty so I couldn't wear them and now my feet feel gross and keep rubbing against the rubber. I think I'm getting a blister...”

“You want to go buy some socks? Or better yet, some shoes?”

“You guys have shoes here?” He looked down at her feet, seeing her as bare-footed as everyone else. “...Why?” Is all he could ask.

But Pazu didn't seem offended. “Yes, we have tailors and craftsmen who can make them. Mind you, my people don't usually wear them, but very young children do, since their feet don't grow until they get older. And also because as you've witnessed, there are other humans here. Should we expect them to walk around barefoot with their tiny little pink feet?” There was teasing in her voice.

But Ethan was relieved. New socks and new shoes? Sounded perfect, especially since his sneakers weren't exactly top quality and rather old. He'd been meaning to get a new pair for quite some time. “Sounds good to me.”

“Great. We'll do that first, since he'll need time to make them, and then we'll get some food too.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

As it turned out, not only did they go to get Ethan fitted for new shoes and socks, but they also stopped by a tailor's shop, about halfway up one of the massive trees, and Pazu ordered a brand new set of clothes for him. All the items would take a few hours, with any unfinished clothing sent to the castle once they were completed in a few days, so Pazu took Ethan around the city.

Aldmoor was very large, and Ethan couldn't keep his sense of direction. Everything looked the same to him, though to be fair, he often felt that way in any unfamiliar place. Pazu then brought him to a restaurant located almost near the top of the trees, which he had to walk up one of the many ramps located around town. Thankfully, once they were up there, paths and walkways connected many of the upper buildings.

There was even make-shift elevators interspersed throughout, for those without wings or who were too old fly comfortably. But one thing Ethan hadn't understood was the singular buildings located on there own, the highest buildings so far, with no ramps to them, or any other visible way to access them.

When he asked Pazu about them, she'd only blushed faintly and said they were the stores only adults were allowed in. Like nightclubs, lounges, and shops featuring adult 'accessories'.

Huh. Once Fen's collar came off, he'd have the other male bring him there. It'd be interesting to see what kind of sex toys Luftleutians crafted.

At the restaurant, which was quite grand and luxurious. There were candles spaced throughout, instead of the light-creatures, and it lent the place a surreal glow. Just like Pazu had said, only a handful of people gave Ethan odd looks in the restaurant, whereas most of the diners didn't even spare him a second glance.

The food, while rather plain-looking, was phenomenal, and tasted better than anything he'd ever had. They didn't really eat anything substantial, rather, they split a bunch of desserts.

And after, they wandered around the city, and Pazu showed him how it was organized. All the merchants and stores were located on the inside of the city, with residences all on the outer rim. And beyond that, were guard posts, and then, the Wall.

“What's 'The Wall' anyway?” They were walking along the middle of the city, in a small park where there was a bunch of benches and even swings.

Swings! Seriously, swings. The sight of swings made Ethan happier than he would have ever guessed. But they didn't stop to sit on them. Instead, they came to a bench and Pazu reclined back tiredly.

“The wall is a massive barrier built thousands of years ago. It's the length of over a hundred of that 'Great Wall of China', and it's five times as high. It's what keeps us safe from the outside.”

“...What 'outside'? You mean from humans?”

Pazu hesitated. “No...Let's just say that the wildlife past the wall is quite dangerous. It's our first defense. Thankfully, there hasn't been an issue for quite a long time. Though, for the villages out in the Barren Flats...That's another story.”

That sounded...horrible. Why in the world would people live out in the- “Wait a minute!” Ethan gasped, reaching over to grasp at Pazu's sleeve. “Did you say 'Barren Flats'?!”

She gave him an odd look. “Yes, what about it? Have you heard of that place before?”

“Fen said he grew up there. I think...”

Pazu's eyes were wide. “...You can't be serious. Really? He lived there?” She slumped back. “Coohthfeht.”

That hadn't sounded good. “What does that mean?”

An embarrassed sigh. “Uh, nothing that needs repeating in polite company...But I can't believe he grew up there. It makes me respect his highness even more. And...” Coughing quietly, she turned away. “...fear him just a little.”

“Why is that something to be feared? What's so bad about the Barren Flats?”

Pazu gave him an unreadable look, her eyes regretful. “Ethan...” Her slender form slumped back against the bench again, seeming to have trouble with her words. “Look around you now. All these trees, the wildlife, the abundance surrounding us. It's what our people needs to survive. To thrive. Our ancestors, and all their descendants, were people of the skies. Yes, we've adapted to live on the ground, but our spirits are always in the sky. We don't live in these trees just to keep out of harm's way. It's also because we need to be up there. Closer to the freedom.”

“Okay...But what does that have to do with it?”

“...That place...Where your mate grew up, is...it's 'Hell on Earth', to take a phrase from your language.” Her tone was bleak, filled with sadness. “There are no trees, no life, no nothing. Just an endless plain where not even flowers can grow. It's as vast as a sea, and twice as deadly. Predators roam freely without the cover of the forest, and there is no wall to protect anyone. Everyone lives in makeshift huts on the ground.” A shudder accompanied that last word, as if it were unnatural. “The people who live out in the Barren Flats...are usually...” The next word seemed difficult. “...scum.” But then frantic yellow eyes whipped to Ethan, full of remorse. “Please, don't misunderstand. I'm not speaking ill of your Bonded, for I have met him and seen the kindness in his eyes. I've seen how he loves you. And knowing you, then he must surely be wonderful to have been accepted as your mate. But the masses who are unfortunate to reside out there, in that awful land, are criminals. Sinners. Evil people who've been banished or worse, who have no other place to be accepted. All of them are forced out there. It's like an enormous prison. Many offspring of those who've been banished are sometimes lucky enough to come out and make a respectable life for themselves inside the wall, but most others...They stay there until they die. Then there are even others...they manage to get out, by some twist of fate, but they...they bring the darkness with them, deep in their hearts. Many can never change to conform to our peaceful, happy coexistence here.” Pazu sighed, rubbing her arms as if chilled. “There's not a lot of crime here. In the city and everywhere else. Luftleutians are a quiet, simple people. But...those who escape from the Barren Flats, those who cannot change...they cause destruction and pain wherever they go.”

Dear god. Ethan half-wished he'd never asked. Part of him wept for Fen, knowing now that his mate had such a life as that. But the other part...it wondered if there was any darkness left in the dark-skinned male that he just hadn't noticed. No, Ethan shook his head violently. There was no way Fen was like that. No one knew him better than Ethan, and Ethan knew his mate was good.

“Pazu...” He ventured, scuffing his shoes on the ground. “Can we...not talk about this anymore?”

His companion gifted him a brilliant smile, if not somewhat bittersweet. “Of course. It must be difficult to hear such things about your loved one's past.” Standing, Pazu smiled again. This time it was completely cheerful. “Why don't we go see if your new stuff is ready?”

With a nod, they were off, and Ethan was breathing heavy by the time they reached the shop where he'd gotten measured for clothes. All these ramps were killing him. Though, if he'd been brought here way back before him and Fen had built there cabin, he'd be much worse off. At least now, after living in the woods, he could handle exertion.

They picked up his clothing, and Ethan changed into one of the outfits in the back room, coming out to a sharp wolf-whistle from Pazu. Yeah, he looked pretty nice, if he did say so himself. The old clothes were folded up and brought to the back, and the tailor promised to deliver them along with the rest of the clothes tomorrow. Next, they walked to the leather store, where Ethan's shoes should be waiting.

Pazu opened the door to the shop, making the odd stone bell overhead chime with their presence. The owner greeted them happily, accepting Pazu's payment and fetching Ethan's things quickly, having Ethan sit in one of the wooden chairs to the side of the room. Coming out of the back of the room with the shoes in hand, the man gave Ethan a smile and knelt to place the shoes on the floor in front of him.

A pair of socks, made from the same material as Ethan's shirt, were stuff inside the shoes and Ethan reached inside to unroll them. Oh, they felt wonderful. Just as soft as the rest of the clothing he'd worn so far. He tried slowly tried them on, shivering as the strange fabric slid along his feet. Oh god, they were so soft and cozy and cushiony. Ethan didn't even want to take them off. He'd never be able to go back to cotton after this. These wonderful Luftleutian fabrics were way too lush. Like velvet and silk and Egyptian cotton sheets all rolled into one.

Pazu giggled at his expression. “Shall we try the shoes next?”

“Mm, yeah.” Ethan sighed, smiling down at his feet and wiggling his toes. He was such a sucker for socks. Especially back home, in the cabin, where the floors were always cold and he had become accustomed to always having his feet covered. Except in bed, of course, because sleeping next to Fen was like sleeping next to a furnace.

Thinking of his mate made him slightly sad, and Ethan slouched a little, not as excited as he was a minute ago waiting for his new shoes. He'd have to come back here with Fen when they could, so he could share all this fun with his mate.

The shoemaker came to kneel in front of him, offering the shoes, which were these thick leather boots, supple and shiny.

“Oh, those look lovely!” Pazu exclaimed, clapping her hands in excitement. She sat next to Ethan, smiling broadly. “It makes me wish I had tiny feet like yours!”

Ethan snorted, giving her a smirk. “It's not my feet that are tiny, it's yours that are too big!”

Pazu roared at that, giggling like mad and thumping Ethan on the back. “You brat!” She chuckled, settling back to watch as Ethan slipped his feet into his boots.

...Wow. Ethan stilled for just a moment, amazed at how well they fit, the leather seeming to cling to his sole, molding over his toes and riding up his ankles. The exterior was shiny and looked like any other leather Ethan had seen, and he'd expected it to be hard as well. But it was so plush. The interior of the shoe felt like they were layered with some sort of padding, though Ethan wasn't sure if that was because of his socks or if it was the shoes themselves. Either way, it was the single best shoe experience he'd ever had.

“Those look comfortable.” Pazu remarked, nudging him with her side. “Get up and try them out!”

Ethan complied, standing slowly and almost sighing with how wonderful his feet felt, and by association, his legs and hips. It was as if his body had suddenly become aligned and all the aches faded away. Walking on a cloud couldn't even compare to this.

“They're lovely,” He sighed, shuffling forward to pressed his toes further inside. “I never want to sit down again.” Looking down at his legs, he realized he looked pretty good. The new clothes, with the pants tailored to fit him, the shirt wrapped around his back and tied around his waist, with the bell sleeves; it all made him look quite...princely. The boots, with their molded bottoms and the ankles that were bunched, layers of leather in folds surrounding his lower calves, only added to the effect.

If only Fen could see him like this. Oh, he couldn't wait to show him!

“Well well, look who's all fancy.” A low, familiar voice purred from the doorway behind him.

Ethan whirled around, his heart in his throat, because no way, if it was him it'd be too good to be true. But yes! It was Fen! Lounging in the doorway and smiling tenderly at him. “Fen!” He squealed, forgetting himself and racing towards his mate. Long arms caught him when he leaped into them, and them Fen's lips were soft as he kissed them. “What are you doing here?” He mumbled happily, between quick kisses. “Not that I mind,” He added with a correction. “But I thought you'd be in that meeting all day.” My, how odd that sounded. Like Ethan was a housewife waiting for her husband to get out of work. Ah well, it was mostly appropriate. Here he was with his lover holding him up like he were a slender girl.

“I got out earlier than anticipated, love. So I decided to see if I could catch you out here, and ask you if you'd like to spend the rest of the day together.”

“Yes!” Ethan answered without hesitation, nuzzling his face into Fen's neck. “Yes, yes.”

“Mmm, good.” Fen whispered into his ear, giving him one more hug before setting him back down onto the floor. “Pazu,” He said louder, directing his attention to Ethan's companion. “Thank you for keeping my mate safe today and showing him a good time.” The larger male bowed, showing his respect.

“Of course, your highness! It was my pleasure!” She blushed, bowing in return.

“I'll be taking Ethan with me now, so you won't have to worry about him. And I don't know if you have to return or not, but if you'd like, feel free to stay in the city. Take some money too and treat yourself to something as thanks.”

“Oh!” Pazu exclaimed, bowing lower. “I couldn't! But thank you, your highness, you're truly kind.” She held out the money pouch, returning it to Fen. Standing up a little straighter, she eyed Ethan shyly. “I only...”

Ethan, blushing lightly himself, stepped forward then quickened his steps and embraced the kind female. Pazu hugged back, cooing a little. “I had so much fun today, Ethan. If I'd ever had a younger brother, I'd feel blessed if he was like you.”

Ethan's heart jumped, and he let go of Pazu reluctantly. “I feel the same,” He replied quietly. “I feel like...if I'd had a sister...”

Pazu ruffled his hair fondly, giving him a gentle smile. “Thanks, little one. If you have time, we'll do this again sometime.”

“Yeah.”

Pazu bowed to Fen once more, then she was turning and waving as he exited the shop and launched off the outer landing, her wings majestic in the light.

Ethan would never tire of seeing these people flying. It was beautiful and so alluring, like watching poetry in motion, as cliché as that sounded.

{I feel the same way about you when we are mating.} Fen smirked beside him.

Ethan's cheeks flamed, and he turned to his mate. “Stop that...” He chided, skin shivering. “Not in public.”

{But no one knows what I am saying.}

“I know what you're saying.” His legs pressed together, and he squirmed. “And that's enough.”

“Oh, well then. I'll stop.” Came Fen's smug reply, dripping with heavy satisfaction. “If my words have that much effect.” Then he paused and shuddered, making a pained face. {Damn collar...}

That had Ethan laughing, and he grabbed his mate's hand. “Come on, you big baby, let's go.”

“Alright, love. Where would you like to go?”

“Hmm, I don't know...” Ethan pondered for a moment, tapping his chin with one finger. “Can we just...” He glanced away, biting his lips. “Go somewhere and be alone?” Then he jumped, realizing how teasing that sounded. “But not in that way! I just haven't seen you since lunch, and...it was hard...” His shoulders drooped, the memory of leaving Fen just that morning. Living together with the other male, his daily life was filled with Fen. Morning til night, then sleeping beside each other. To suddenly be in this world, where the amounts of time they were apart steadily increased, was taking it's toll on Ethan. All he wanted right now was... “I just want to be near you, we don't have to talk or do anything. We can just go sit somewhere and...and...just be. I don't know...” He trailed off, not really knowing the best way to express what he wanted.

But Fen, the perfect mate that he was, knew already. Gentle fingers came to rest on the side of Ethan's neck, lightly caressing him and silently asking him to look up, which he did. Silver eyes, honey-warm with adoration, met his own.

{I understand. And I know just the thing.}

TO BE CONTINUED

AN: Reviews let me know I'm doing okay on this story! Let me Know! Next chapter will be posted in a day or two!