I am an Alien in another reality.

Alex observed Earth for a while, his attention caught by the ongoing buzz about the Graysons' disappearance and the potential whereabouts of the family.

Intelligence agencies worldwide had put bounties on their heads, some openly, others covertly. Alex shook his head in mild exasperation before letting Arwen and Lily out of the ring world.

Arwen gasped softly as her feet touched the ground, her eyes darting from the expansive ocean to the clear blue sky, then to the villa behind her. Everything felt overwhelming, so unlike Middle-earth.

She turned to Alex, her voice quiet but full of wonder. "Is this... Earth?"

Alex smiled at her reaction, nodding. "This is my home world, yes. Take your time to adjust. I'll answer your questions soon enough."

Lily, hovering in her chibi form, broke the moment with a giggle. "When will you two have a baby?"

Arwen's cheeks flushed as she stumbled over her words. "I—what—" She glanced at Alex, unsure how to respond.

Alex, unbothered, chuckled. "It's not that simple, Lily. Besides, there is no need to rush."

Lily huffed playfully. "Well, fine. Oh, Alex," she said, her tone shifting, "did anyone else enter the Sahara Forest sanctuary?"

Alex shook his head. "No, the military has cordoned off the area. No one's been allowed to approach it."

"Can I go there for a while?" Lily asked, clasping her tiny hands together as if begging. "I want to meet the fairies!"

Arwen tilted her head, curious. "Fairies? You have them here, too?"

"They're different," Alex explained briefly before addressing Lily. "Okay, but stay within the barrier, and don't change anything. The sanctuary is under surveillance. I'll also revoke any future human access."

"Yay!" Lily squealed, her small form darting off.

Arwen turned back to Alex, her expression soft. "Your world is so... vast. And yet, it feels strange. There's no magic in the air like in Middle-earth."

"There is magic," Alex said, taking her hand gently. "But it's buried beneath layers of science and technology. This world doesn't rely on gods or ancient powers, it's shaped by humans alone. That makes it both extraordinary and dangerous."

He pressed his forehead to hers, and a golden glow enveloped them. Memories flowed from Alex into Arwen: images of sprawling cities, towering skyscrapers, the bustling energy of humanity, and their endless innovations and conflicts.

As the memories settled, Arwen swayed slightly, steadying herself against him.

"So much progress," she whispered, her tone conflicted. "And yet, so much destruction. Even with all this, they fight over resources and power."

Alex led her to the lawn overlooking the ocean, their hands still entwined. "Man will never be content," he said, his voice heavy. "If I intervene too soon, I'll only bring more chaos. They need to overcome their greed and differences on their own. Only then can they truly move forward."

Arwen rested her head on his shoulder, a small smile on her lips. "Then we'll watch together," she said. "And when the time is right, we'll help them. But until then, I'll go wherever you go."

After a while, Alex guided Arwen back to the villa. He moved seamlessly through the kitchen, preparing a meal. Arwen sat nearby, watching him work with quiet fascination.

"You're so at ease here," she remarked.

Alex glanced at her, smiling as he plated a salad. "Cooking is an art," he replied lightly. "A balance of flavors, textures, and timing. You'll see what I mean when you taste it."

For the salad, Alex mixed fresh greens, apple slices, walnuts, and honey-Dijon dressing. The main course featured roasted chicken with lemon and garlic, served with sautéed spinach and potatoes. Dessert was a honey almond cake topped with fresh berries.

As they ate, Arwen savored each bite, her expression thoughtful. "Your food is so rich," she commented. "Will I... get fat if I eat like this every day?"

Alex laughed. "I doubt it. Elves don't seem to store fat the way humans do."

Arwen smiled, reassured, and they continued their meal, sipping on elven wine from Mín Heimr.

After dinner, Alex suggested they explore the nearby city. "You'll need a dress," he said, handing her a tablet. "Find something you like, and I'll replicate it for you."

Arwen studied the device, intrigued by its glowing screen. After a few minutes, she pointed to an elegant navy blue floral wrap dress. "This one," she said simply.

Alex nodded. With a wave of his hand, her elven robes transformed into the dress. Arwen turned, marveling at the soft fabric and the way it moved with her.

"It's beautiful," she said, touching the material lightly.

"Not as beautiful as the one wearing it," Alex replied with a smirk.

Her cheeks flushed, and she laughed softly. "You always know what to say, don't you?"

He grinned and cast an illusion over her ears, making them appear human. "Now you're ready."

Alex changed into a simple navy T-shirt and black pants, conjuring sandals for Arwen. Together, they headed to the garage.

When Alex chose the sleek Pininfarina Battista, Arwen stared at the vehicle, her brow furrowed. "What kind of car is this?" she asked, running her fingers along its smooth surface.

"It's called a hypercar," Alex explained. "It's fast, sleek, and runs on electricity instead of magic or horses."

Arwen hesitated as she climbed into the passenger seat. The interior was unlike anything she'd ever seen, buttons, screens, and lights surrounded her. As Alex started the engine, the soft hum startled her.

Alex chuckled. "You'll get used to it."

With that, they sped off toward Los Angeles, the city's vibrant lights waiting to greet them.