My boyfriend is a nine-tailed fox

With each passing day, Jace grew more accustomed to the world around him. He still found certain aspects bewildering the sheer speed at which people lived their lives, the constant flow of information, and the technology that seemed to permeate every aspect of daily life. But thanks to Anita's patient guidance and the support of her friends, he was starting to find his place.Anita took Jace on small excursions around Middleton, showing him the town's landmarks and introducing him to the people she knew. Jace marveled at the blend of old and new—the historic buildings standing alongside modern structures, the ancient trees lining streets filled with cars and bustling pedestrians. It was a testament to the resilience of the past, coexisting with the innovations of the present.One afternoon, Anita took Jace to the town's library. As they walked through the aisles of books, Jace felt a sense of peace wash over him. The smell of old paper and the quiet atmosphere reminded him of the scrolls and manuscripts he had once guarded in the temple. Here, in this place of knowledge, he felt a connection to both his past and the future he was beginning to embrace.Anita led him to the history section, where shelves were lined with books on ancient cultures, myths, and legends. "I thought you might like it here," she said, smiling as she watched Jace's eyes light up. "There's so much to learn and discover. History isn't just about the past—it's about understanding how we got to where we are today."Jace nodded, running his fingers along the spines of the books. "It's incredible how much knowledge has been preserved. Even after all this time, people are still searching for answers, still trying to connect with the past."He picked up a book on ancient civilizations and flipped through its pages. "Perhaps this is where I can find my place—in helping others understand the history I've lived through. There's so much I can share, so much that was forgotten or lost over time."Anita's heart swelled with pride. "You'd be an incredible teacher, Jace. Your firsthand experiences would bring history to life in a way that no textbook ever could."Jace smiled, feeling a sense of purpose beginning to take root. "Maybe you're right. Maybe this is what I was meant to do—bridge the gap between the past and the present, and help others see the connections that bind us all."The thought of teaching excited him, giving him a renewed sense of direction. He could use his knowledge to contribute to this new world, to help others learn from the past and avoid the mistakes that had led to his own imprisonment.As they left the library, Jace felt a lightness in his step that he hadn't felt since his release. He was beginning to see that the world, despite its changes, was not as foreign as he had feared. The core of humanity—the desire to learn, grow, and connect—remained the same, and it was something he could relate to and be a part of.Back at Anita's house, the group continued to prepare for the ritual that would protect the fox bead. The alignment of the stars was drawing closer, and they knew the importance of getting everything right. Jace's understanding of the ancient texts was invaluable, and he worked closely with Emily and Liam to ensure that every detail was accounted for.As they gathered around the table, discussing the final preparations, Jace felt a sense of camaraderie that warmed his heart. These people, who had welcomed him into their lives and helped him navigate this new world, had become more than just allies—they were friends. And with them, he was beginning to forge a new path, one that honored both his past and the future he was embracing.The countdown to the ritual was in its final stages, and with it came a sense of anticipation. Jace knew that whatever happened next, he wouldn't face it alone. He had found his place, and with it, a new purpose. The past might have shaped him, but the present was where he would make his mark, and with Anita and her friends by her side.