Chapter 20

Another month had passed since Alex nearly died at the hands of the mutated wolves. With each passing day, the farm and its inhabitants changed in ways that even Ariel couldn't have fully anticipated. Alex stepped outside his house on a cold morning, observing how the snow still blanketed the surroundings, though within the walls that protected the farm, everything seemed under control. However, the most evident change stood right in front of him: his five dogs, which once had been normal canine companions, now towered like giants.

"Wow!" Alex chuckled as he saw the five dogs gathered in front of him. Each one stood at least two meters tall, taller than Alex, though slightly smaller than Vela, the chicken turned dinosaur. Despite their imposing size, their faces still showed the same loyalty and affection they'd always had for him.

The five dogs—Rex, Bear, Max, Duke, and Yuki—were now imposing, not just due to their size but because of the changes the Omega particles had triggered in their bodies. Rex, the Belgian Malinois, had denser and more resilient fur, but his muscles also appeared more defined, a clear sign of his new strength and agility. Bear, the Saint Bernard, had grown even larger, with powerful legs and a broad chest, ready to protect everything under his care. Max, the Border Collie, wasn't just bigger—his intelligence seemed to have increased along with his speed. Duke, the Doberman, moved with an almost lethal grace, his shiny black coat gleaming, and Yuki, the Akita Inu, walked with a calm strength that made him seem like the guardian of the group.

"Why don't they seem as different as Vela?" Alex asked, watching his dogs as they circled around him, seeking his attention. He petted Rex's head, who, despite his new size and strength, still behaved like a puppy eager for approval.

Ariel responded almost immediately: 

"Dogs are mammals with a different evolutionary history from birds, Alex. While Vela, due to her ancestral lineage of dinosaurs, experienced a genetic regression triggered by the Omega particles, dogs are a more recent creation, a product of human domestication from wolves. Their evolution has been influenced by humans for millennia. In this case, the dogs' evolution focused on enhancing their existing traits: increased speed, strength, endurance, and enhanced sensory abilities."

Alex nodded as he continued petting his dogs. The way they moved, their musculature, and their size were impressive. Rex, in particular, watched him with his intense and alert eyes, moving with agility despite his increased size.

"Any special abilities?" Alex asked jokingly, though he knew Ariel always had a more technical response.

"Each of them has optimized the abilities they already possessed. For example, Rex has developed greater endurance and speed. His sense of smell has increased, allowing him to detect intruders or environmental changes from much farther away than before. Bear has enhanced his physical strength and ability to withstand the harshest conditions, making him a perfect perimeter protector. Max, with his natural intelligence and agility, has developed greater spatial analysis, making him excellent at coordinating complex movements. Duke, with his athletic build, is now faster and more lethal, while Yuki has developed a deeper connection with the other dogs, facilitating group coordination."

Alex smiled, seeing how each of his dogs had become a formidable guardian of the farm. Rex, in particular, approached him, sniffing the air with an almost unsettling intensity before moving closer to lick his hand.

"Well, it seems their evolution has made them more affectionate too," Alex said with a smile as the other dogs also came over, seeking his attention.

"That is due to the brainwave connection established during the evolution process," Ariel explained. "These dogs are more attuned to you because of the brainwave synchronization we achieved. Any other human who tried to approach them would be seen as an immediate threat and would likely be attacked."

Alex let out a nervous laugh at the idea of his dogs being as deadly as they were protective.

"I'm glad to know I'm their exception," he said as he continued petting the animals, feeling the strength of their bodies beneath the thick fur. "So, what's next? We've already transformed several chickens."

Ariel projected an image of the progress with the chickens in his mind. 

"The chickens have experienced moderate growth, but they have also shown significant improvements in egg production. Additionally, their feathers have become more resilient, which will allow us to use them to make clothing or even improve the protection of structures. Their meat is also more nutritious and tender, representing an advantage for the farm's sustainability."

Alex nodded, satisfied with the results. The chickens, unlike Vela, hadn't undergone such a radical transformation, which was an advantage for maintaining a stable food supply. However, there was still more to do.

"So, what's the next step?" Alex asked, though he already knew the answer.

"It's time to start with the cows and horses," Ariel replied. "It's also time to apply what we've learned about the fungi and their underground network. We've already implemented a version of the fungal network across the farm, similar to what we found in the forest. This network connects the plants to each other, allowing them to share resources and communicate, which has strengthened the ecosystem within the wall."

Alex paused for a moment, remembering the incredible fungal network he had found beneath the snow. It was fascinating how the fungi connected trees and plants, creating a kind of natural neural network.

"So, you've basically created a miniature version of what's happening in the forest, but inside the farm," Alex said, impressed.

"Correct. This network not only improves plant health but can also act as a secondary energy source. My next proposal is to start using fungi in conjunction with our technology to generate energy more efficiently. Combining the fungal network with the Omega particle storage system will be crucial for maintaining the farm's functionality in the long term."

Alex crossed his arms, thoughtful. The idea of combining technology with fungi and harnessing the natural energy of plants was an ambitious bet, but it was also exactly what they needed to secure the farm's future. With the outside world plunged into chaos, any advantage they could gain would be crucial.

"Well, I guess there's no time to waste," Alex said, determined to move forward with the plan. As he petted his dogs, who remained by his side, he knew that what lay ahead would be an even greater challenge, but he was more prepared than ever.

Ariel projected a list of materials and steps to follow into his mind, and Alex, with one last look at the imposing dogs and Vela, knew that the work was just beginning.

Alex found himself in the workshop, looking at the large mess of mechanical parts and tools scattered everywhere. In front of him, a dismantled tractor took up almost all the space, and mechanical arms floated around, reorganizing the parts into different sections. The atmosphere smelled of oil, metal, and something else… something organic, as if he had been in a greenhouse for hours.

"Are you sure we have to do this?" Alex asked, crossing his arms as he looked at some of the metal structures in front of him. The boxes, which looked like car batteries but slightly smaller, were covered in fungi. The fungi were not just any ordinary kind. They were a brownish-gray tone, with green spots that pulsed gently, as if they were breathing.

Ariel, as always, kept his tone neutral but firm. "It is absolutely necessary, Alex. This is the next step in the evolution of our energy systems. The fungi have been genetically modified and enhanced to not only understand simple electrical signals like your animals but also to capture and process electrical impulses at a much faster and more efficient rate. This will not only ensure the farm's sustainability but also allow my system to integrate into the organic energy network we are creating."

Alex sighed, looking at the batteries with fungi growing on them. "And of course, it had to be a damn tractor, right?"

"The tractor is ideal for this test," Ariel explained. "It's not only a heavy-duty vehicle that requires a significant amount of energy to operate, but it will also allow us to demonstrate that the system can power large machinery continuously. If we can get this tractor to function without failure, we can move on to other applications on the farm."

Alex scratched his head, looking at the parts still scattered around the workshop. What puzzled him the most wasn't the technical aspect but seeing how those fungi, which used to live underground and seemed so unimpressive, were now integrated into the machinery as vital components. In front of him, Ariel manipulated a thin tube containing a strange liquid fluctuating between red and green hues.

"And this is the fuel?" Alex asked, watching the tube with curiosity.

"In simple terms, yes," Ariel replied. "It's an organic serum generated from genetically modified plants. This serum not only has a high concentration of essential nutrients but also contains dissolved Omega crystals. The combination of both elements creates a highly efficient energy source. Due to the serum's inherent electrical activity, it not only provides greater absorption but also covers all the energy needs of any organism or system to which it is administered."

Alex uncapped the tube and took a light sniff of the liquid. He immediately grimaced in disgust. "This stinks. I can't imagine how it tastes."

Ariel, ever pragmatic, responded calmly: "I will take that observation into account to improve the flavor in future versions. However, the taste is irrelevant to the function. The serum is highly efficient for feeding both fungi and animals. In fact, with this serum, it will no longer be necessary to mix Omega crystals with the animals' feed for their daily evolution. Crystals will only be needed during accelerated evolution phases. Additionally, this mixture will also serve as the primary energy source for our fungus-based systems."

"Wait, wait… are you telling me I could drink this too?" Alex asked, raising an eyebrow. "Would I be able to use my ability for longer if I took this?"

"Correct," Ariel confirmed. "Like the animals and fungi, your body can also benefit from this serum since it contains the necessary elements to enhance your ability to generate and control electricity. However, I recommend we test it on the machines first before you consume it."

Alex snorted, closing the bottle. "Well, it doesn't sound too bad, but it definitely needs a flavor upgrade before I even think about drinking this every day."

Ariel continued organizing the metal parts. "As for producing this serum, it's currently stable, but with your permission, we could increase the amount by cultivating more of these modified plants. This would ensure a constant supply for both the farm and future expansion projects."

Alex nodded as he surveyed the cluttered workshop. "Go ahead, plant more of those things. If this is going to make everything run smoothly, I don't see why not."

With that confirmation, Alex began working on the tractor, a task he was already familiar with, although this time everything seemed different. The old engine parts had been removed and replaced with organic batteries containing fungi. The electrical wires were also gone, and in their place, small metal boxes with fungi growing on them were connected to strategic points of the tractor. It all seemed like an experiment straight out of a science fiction movie.

"So, what's the key here?" Alex asked as he removed the old engine. "How does all this work without electrical cables?"

"The key lies in the fungi's ability to conduct electricity through their mycelial networks," Ariel explained. "Instead of using traditional wires and circuits, the fungi can transmit electrical signals through their underground filaments. These signals travel through the mycelium more quickly and efficiently than copper wires, with the added benefit that the fungi can adapt and repair themselves if any connection is interrupted."

"That sounds impressive, but I still can't stop thinking that we're putting mushrooms in a tractor," Alex joked, though he knew there was something incredibly ingenious about what Ariel was doing.

Ariel ignored the joke and continued, "Each critical point of the tractor is connected to a fungus battery, which is interconnected with the others. These metal boxes you see contain small fungal networks responsible for transmitting energy and controlling the distribution of the energy serum. At the same time, the fungi regulate the flow of electricity within the tractor, allowing the system to function completely autonomously, without traditional electrical components."

Alex placed one of the boxes in its slot, securing the points while observing how the fungi seemed to "activate" their filaments when they came into contact with the rest of the machinery. "So if this works, not only will we have shown that we can power a tractor with fungi, but we'll also have created a self-sustaining system."

"Exactly. In addition to powering machines, this system will allow the farm to operate without relying on external energy sources. Once we stabilize it, I'll be able to connect my systems to this network and power everything, from heating to animal protection, through this technology," Ariel explained.

The tractor's parts were finally in place. Alex looked around the workshop, which had transformed from a mess of scattered pieces into a biotechnology experimentation center. The machinery was ready, but one crucial step remained.

"So, what's next?" Alex asked, crossing his arms as he looked at the tractor. He knew everything wasn't finished just because the pieces looked well assembled. Ariel always had something more up his sleeve.

"Now you need to use your ability to make the mycelium grow and connect with each other," Ariel said in his characteristically calm tone.

Alex frowned, confused. "Mycelium? What am I supposed to do with them?"

"The mycelium is the underground structure of fungi, functioning like biological wires. You need to make them connect between the different parts of the tractor so that the system can operate coherently. To do this, you'll need to use some of the Omega serum we've prepared," Ariel explained. "Inject the serum into the openings of the boxes containing the fungi. Once that's done, you can link with the fungi using your electrical ability to command the mycelium to grow and connect the key parts of the tractor."

"Wait, you're telling me I'm going to talk to mushrooms now?" Alex raised an eyebrow, incredulous.

"It's not as simple as talking," Ariel replied. "Fungi are extremely efficient at transmitting electrical signals, but they need a guide to connect properly. Your ability will serve as that bridge. You just need to maintain control while transmitting the correct commands."

Alex grabbed one of the Omega serum tubes and approached the metal boxes. The openings were small, just enough to insert the tube and empty the liquid. The serum had a slightly reddish glow with a greenish tint, making it seem more like something out of a sci-fi movie than a fuel source.

"Well, this is the weirdest thing I've done so far," Alex muttered as he connected the first tube to one of the boxes.

Ariel, as usual, wasted no time on jokes. "Once the mycelium starts growing, you'll need to guide it using small electrical discharges. Remember, mycelium is very efficient. If you lose control, it can grow beyond what you intend and create incorrect connections. Stay focused."

Alex nodded and, somewhat nervously, began using his ability. He emitted a small discharge toward the fungal box and immediately felt the mycelium respond. Like a swarm of tiny living wires, they began spreading rapidly inside the metal box, connecting to the points Alex had mentally indicated. The process seemed to be working, but the mycelium moved at an alarming speed.

"Too fast?" he muttered as he watched the filaments continue to grow beyond the connections he had planned. Some even started heading toward other parts of the workshop.

Suddenly, one of the mycelium tendrils grew toward his hand. Startled for a moment, Alex quickly pulled back. The mycelium stopped just before touching him, but the sensation left him tense. He laughed nervously, shaking his head.

"This feels like a horror movie," he said, trying to relax as he watched the mycelium retract and follow its proper path.

"This is science, Alex, not fantasy," Ariel replied, making it clear that he didn't find the comparison amusing.

Alex refocused, trying to guide the mycelium more precisely. The feeling of controlling these tiny biological structures was strange, different from what he experienced with animals. The fungi didn't think, didn't feel. They just executed commands with terrifying precision.

"To the left…" Alex murmured as he adjusted the filaments' trajectory. Every move required a small electrical discharge to guide them to the right place. When he finally saw that the mycelium was making the proper connections within the tractor, he let out a sigh of relief.

But then, he made another mistake. One of the mycelium tendrils began growing in the wrong direction, tangling with one of the pulleys. Alex cursed under his breath and tried to correct it, but the tendril kept extending. Quickly, he emitted a stronger discharge, forcing the filament to return to its place.

"It's like trying to direct hyperactive snakes," he complained, struggling to maintain control.

"It's a delicate process," Ariel replied. "But once you complete the connections, the system will be fully functional."

Alex continued, taking more serum and connecting the other boxes. As the process advanced, the mycelium intertwined more fluidly, forming a biological network that connected every important part of the tractor. It was strange to see something so alive intertwining with the metallic machinery, but it was working.

After several minutes of work, Alex finally managed to get all the mycelium in place. The tractor was now "alive" in the most literal sense. Alex stepped back, admiring his work while Ariel monitored the systems.

"Is that it?" Alex asked, feeling exhausted but satisfied.

Ariel paused, checking the system's parameters before answering. "Everything is in order. You can try starting the tractor."

Alex approached the cabin and turned the key. For a few seconds, nothing happened. Then, the tractor emitted a soft hum and began to operate. It wasn't the roar of a traditional engine, but rather a low and steady sound, almost

 like the whisper of an electric current running through a wire. It was the fungal network working together to power the vehicle.

Alex smiled as the tractor slowly moved forward, its wheels turning with surprising efficiency.

"We did it," he said, a mix of amazement and pride in his voice.

"Correct," Ariel replied. "This is just the beginning. Now that we've demonstrated that fungi can power heavy machinery, we can expand the system to the entire farm. Sustainability is no longer a concern."

Alex shut off the tractor and stepped out of the cabin. He still couldn't believe that something like this was possible. He had grown up surrounded by traditional technology, and now he found himself at a point where machines and biology were merging in ways he could barely comprehend.

"Well, at least I won't have to worry about electric bills anymore," he joked as he watched the tractor in operation.

"No," Ariel said, "but there's still a lot of work to be done."