This is a story about a a lion named Alex who hires a wolf named Eric as his guide to hunt a beast for its alchemical ingredient. Eric and Alex bond over their love of adventure, but Eric's indulgent cooking and drinking habits lead to them both gaining weight. They continue their journey together, and after a night of heavy drinking and eating, Alex feels embarrassed by the gossip of two locals. He confides in Eric that he's attracted to him, and Eric reciprocates. The two share a kiss and continue their journey together.

Icon from https://www.flaticon.com/authors/iconixar

==Chapter 1: The Hunt==
As he stepped off the train, Alex adjusted his backpack and took in the crisp mountain air. The steam train had brought him to this quiet station in the middle of a hamlet of the highlands.
Alex had been planning this adventure for months, and he was ready to embrace the freedom and excitement that awaited him. His fur, an icy blend of whites and blues, caught the sunlight as he scanned the platform for his paid guide. His guide: a dark, smoky blue-gray wolf.
And there he was: Eric, the older, burly wolf leaned against a pillar with a confident stance. Despite his well-built arms and broad shoulders, Eric's soft, rotund gut hinted at a love for food and drink. As Alex approached, Eric's amber eyes glinted with intelligence and adventure.
"Hey, lion. You must be Alex," the wolf said with a friendly grin, extending his paw for a handshake. "I'm Eric. I'll be your guide on this adventure."
Alex shook Eric's paw, feeling a sense of warmth and familiarity, despite the burly wolf towering over him "Nice to meet you, Eric. I'm excited to get started."
"Good, good," Eric said, adjusting his thick belt to support his large gut. "We've got a lot to cover, so let's get moving." Eric continued, leading Alex out of the station and towards the hiking trail.
As they walked along the trail, Eric pointed out different plants and wildlife, sharing his knowledge and experience with Alex. Alex listened eagerly, taking in everything Eric had to say, and feeling a sense of admiration for the older wolf's expertise and wisdom.
Over the next few days, Alex and Eric hiked through rugged terrain, climbed steep mountains, and navigated through dense forests. They shared stories around the campfire, cooked meals together, and bonded over their love for adventure and exploration.
As they settled into their routine, Alex noticed that Eric had a habit of indulging in food and drink, and he often encouraged Alex to do the same. Eric would pour them both glasses of whiskey in the evening and cook large, hearty meals that left them both feeling satisfied but a bit sluggish. Alex didn't mind at first, enjoying the companionship and the taste of good food, but he soon started to feel his energy levels drop and his body start to change. He noticed he was gaining weight, feeling sluggish and tired during their hikes.
Despite this, Alex enjoyed his time with Eric, feeling a sense of camaraderie and mentorship that he had never experienced before. He looked up to Eric as a guide and a friend, and he was eager to learn everything he could from him.
After a long day, they came to their final hamlet before the end of their journey.
After a night of indulgence, Eric patted his rounded gut and let out a loud belch. The sound echoed in the small tavern where they had been drinking, and Alex winced at the noise. But Eric was too drunk to care about manners.
"Alex, why are you hunting such a beast?" Eric asked, his tone curious. The whisky in his blood allowed his inhibitions to disappear, and he was not afraid to voice his thoughts. Alex's ears perked up, knowing he would have to reveal his true intentions to his guide.
"The adventure in question was to hunt a grand beast," Alex began, choosing his words carefully. "I must be clear, this beast has done no wrong, but their fangs contain a potent alchemical ingredient that I would use in my potent healing potions."
Eric raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Healing potions, eh? You're not just a simple adventurer after all."
Alex nodded, relieved that Eric seemed to understand. "I have been studying alchemy for years, and I require this ingredient for my next set of potions."
With a burp, Eric continued his questioning. "But then why not just hire me to hunt the beast alone? It’d be a lot quicker if I didn’t have you slowing me down."
Alex felt a pang of hurt at Eric's words, but he knew that Eric was just drunk and not thinking clearly. "I have to be there for the beast's death. I'm done with buying ingredients not knowing their source," Alex explained, hoping that Eric would understand.
Eric took a swig of his whiskey and chuckled. "Well, Alex, I never thought I'd be working for a lion alchemist. But, I suppose everyone's got to make a living somehow. Our hunt is tomorrow, and I’ll hunt your beast."
Alex let out a sigh of relief. "Thank you, Eric. I couldn't do this alone."
After a half-day of tracking, they finally came upon the beast, who lay asleep in a secluded clearing. Alex's heart raced with excitement and a tinge of sadness for what must come next. He watched as Eric readied his sword, preparing to strike the fatal blow. But to Alex's dismay, Eric let out a loud, taunting howl, awakening the beast from its slumber.

Alex knew this was not the honourable way to hunt, and he braced himself for the ensuing chaos. The beast charged at them, its massive frame barrelling towards Alex, who stood frozen in fear. In that moment, Eric's training as a spellsword shone through as he deftly swung his enchanted sword, slicing off the beast's head in one swift motion.
As the dust settled, Eric helped Alex extract the potent alchemical ingredient they had come for: the beast's fangs. Alex's heart sank as he realized the true cost of his craft, the cost of taking a life for the sake of his potions. He vowed to use the fangs with respect and honour, to honour the life of the beast that gave its all for his work.
==Chapter 2: The Journey==
After they hunted the beast, Alex paid Eric and they began to part ways. But Alex couldn't shake off the feeling that he had found a worthy companion in Eric. Alex had been searching for alchemy ingredients for some time, and he knew that Eric had a wealth of knowledge about the region. Alex decided to speak up.
"Eric, I was wondering if you would be interested in assisting me in my journey. I'm in search of rare alchemy ingredients that can be found in the highlands. With your knowledge of the area, I think we could find what I need," Alex said.
Eric scratched his chin thoughtfully. "I'd be happy to help you, Alex. But I have a condition. I need you to be my personal alchemist," Eric said with a grin.
Alex raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Personal alchemist? What do you mean?"
Eric chuckled and patted his belly. "Healing potions for recovery, poisons for the toughest beasts, and most importantly of all, heartburn relief potions after a big feast! I need all of them, and I need them now."
Alex couldn't help but laugh at Eric's enthusiasm. "Alright, I accept your terms, Eric. I'll do my best to create the potions you need," Alex said, extending his paw for a handshake.
"Good," Eric replied, shaking Alex's paw firmly. "We leave at first light tomorrow. Make sure you bring all your alchemy equipment with you."
Alex would gather berries and herbs for their nightly feasts, as instructed by Eric, and the the mercenary wolf would be the one hunting the magical beasts they came across.
An expert survivalist, Eric knew how to prepare the meat and use every part of every beast. Every night, every camp, Eric prepares meals that are calorie-dense, but full of flavor. This was a little above his paid grade as a mercenary, but he was more then happy to share his meal with Alex, who always ate Alex with enthusiasm. Over time, Alex begins to notice the effects of his eating habits, as his clothes become tighter and the lion finds himself feeling more lethargic. Alex continued to gain weight, feeling increasingly self-conscious about his expanding belly.
One evening, after finishing a particularly large meal at camp, Eric picks up his lute and begins to play. Alex watches as Eric’s hands move over the strings, noticing Eric’s belly jiggly with each strum. Alex couldn't help but notice that Eric's gut had also grown larger. He hesitated to bring up the subject, but he knew that they needed to address the issue.
"Eric, I'm concerned about our diet," Alex began. "I think we need to start making healthier choices."
Eric looked up from his plate, surprised by Alex's sudden outburst. "What do you mean, lion? We're eating plenty of meat and vegetables, and we need the whiskey to warm us up in this cold climate."
"I know…” Alex took a moment to think of a polite way to phase his concerns “but we're not getting enough variety in our diet," Alex continued. "We should be eating more fruits and nuts and drinking water instead of whiskey. We need to take care of our bodies if we want to continue on this adventure."
Eric nods. “I understand, Alex. But I don’t think I can compromise on the food. Cooking lighter meals would mean sacrificing flavour, and that’s something I’m not willing to do.”
Alex sighs, disappointed. “I understand. But I need to do something about my weight. Do you have any suggestions?”
Eric thinks for a moment. “Well, why don’t I just give you smaller portions? And if I give you too much, just give me what you don’t want! We could also cut back on the alcohol. That would reduce the overall calorie count of our meals.”
“That’s a good idea,” Alex agrees.
Eric stands up and walks over to the small kitchen area. He pulls out a bottle of butterbeer and holds it up. “But I’m not giving up my Dragon’s Brew. That’s my favourite drink.”
Alex looks at the bottle, unsure. “But isn’t that even more calorie-dense than alcohol?”
Eric laughs. “Yes, it is. But it’s non-alcoholic, so it’s a compromise.”
As the days pass, Alex does his best to cut back on his portions. But every night, the smell tempts him, and every night, he asks for seconds. And every night, Alex can feel himself getting heavier.
== Chapter 3: The Weight of Love ==
As Alex continued his journey with Eric, he couldn't help but feel self-conscious about the way their body jiggled with every step.
Over the past few weeks of their journey, they had indulged in hearty meals and drinks with each other, relishing in the sense of camaraderie and the taste of good food. But now, as Alex felt the extra weight in his thighs and belly, he couldn't help but feel a twinge of regret. He knew that their journey was far from over, and they worried that his weight gain would hold them back from their goals. With a heavy heart, Alex vowed to himself to start watching his diet, determined to regain their strength and stamina.
One morning, as they are getting dressed, Alex struggles to button his pants. Frustrated, he sighs and rubs his protruding belly. Eric notices Alex’s disappointment and tries to cheer him up.
“Hey, Alex!” Eric says, as he rubs his gut. “I need to buy some new clothes in the next town! Why don’t you shop for some too, my treat.”
Alex smiles at Eric’s words of encouragement. “Thanks, Eric. I really appreciate it.”
As they arrive in a small hamlet, they spot a tailor’s shop and enter. Eric disappears into a changing room to try on new clothes, while Alex browses the shop. A leather outfit catches his eye, and he decides to try it on. As he admires his reflection in the mirror, he can't help but notice the tight leather pants cling to his thick thighs, and the vest reveals his bulging belly. Alex feels a wave of self-doubt wash over him, wondering if he looks too big or too noticeable.
Meanwhile, Eric emerges from the changing room, sporting a new outfit that accentuates his muscular arms and broadening waistline. Alex is stunned, his eyes drawn to Eric's protruding belly.
"You look great, Eric," Alex says, trying to mask his own insecurities.
Eric grins, patting his belly. "Thank ye kindly, but so do you, Alex. That leather outfit is perfect for you."
As they continue their journey, Eric suggests they stop at a nearby tavern for the night. He wants to play his lute and make some extra coin. Alex agrees, excited to see Eric perform.
The tavern is bustling with people, and the smell of rich food fills the air. Eric’s music draws a crowd, and as they listen, Alex can’t help but indulge in the rich foods and drinks on offer. He and Eric laugh and joke with the locals, feeling carefree and happy.
As the night wears on, Eric and Alex overindulge in food and drink. They consume creamy soups, roasted meats, and sweet pastries. They wash it all down with strong ale and Dragon’s Brew, the sweet, calorie-dense beverage causing their bellies to bulge even more.
The pair sleep till noon the next day. As Eric is packing up their belongings, Alex goes into town to purchase supplies. In a shop, he overhears a conversation between two locals.
“Did you hear about those two travellers last night? The big one can barely walk, he’s so overweight!”
Alex feels embarrassed and ashamed, realizing that his weight has become a source of gossip and ridicule. He quickly leaves the shop and finds Eric waiting for him outside.
Eric noticed that Alex seemed upset and asked him what was wrong.
Alex hesitated for a moment, but then decided to tell Eric about the incident at the shop. "I overheard some people talking about… our weight," Alex said, his voice shaking slightly.
Eric's confused face asked "Why does this brilliant alchemical genius care about the thoughts of a commoner? Truly you don’t count your worth by their opinion?" he said, placing a reassuring paw on Alex's shoulder.
Alex felt a sense of relief wash over him as he listened to Eric's words. Together, they continued their adventure.
Eric and Alex sit by the campfire, roasting marshmallows, enjoying the warmth of the fire. After a few moments of comfortable silence, Alex suddenly speaks up.
"Eric, there's something I need to tell you. Something I've been keeping from you."
Eric turns to him, sensing the seriousness in his voice.
"What is it, Alex?" he asks.
Alex takes a deep breath and confesses, "Eric, I think I'm attracted to you. I've been feeling this way for a while, and I don't know what to do."
Eric's eyes widen in surprise, but then he smiles warmly.
"Alex, I've been hoping you would say that. I've been feeling the same way," Eric says, taking Alex's hand in his own.Alex feels a weight lifted off his chest, knowing that Eric feels the same way. They look into each other's eyes for a moment, before leaning in for a kiss. The sparks that fly between them are intense, and they break the kiss, grinning.
"I've been wanting to do that for so long," Eric admits.
"Me too," Alex says, feeling giddy with excitement.
They cuddle by the fire, enjoying each other's company and feeling confident in who they are and what they mean to each other. They fall asleep in each other's arms, knowing that their love for each other will help them face any challenge that comes their way.