Chapter 3: Memory Synchronization

"Understood, System. Please proceed with the memory synchronization process," Max agreed, acknowledging the system's instructions.

[Memory Synchronization will commence in 1 minute. The Host is advised to sit comfortably on the bed.]

"Hmmm," Max complied with the system's advice, settling into a cross-legged position on the bed to ensure he wouldn't experience any discomfort during the upcoming process.

As Max settled into a comfortable cross-legged position on the bed, he couldn't help but feel a mix of anticipation and curiosity.

The room around him seemed to hum with otherworldly energy, and he knew that this synchronization process held the key to unlocking the memories of the original body he now inhabited.

With each passing second, the atmosphere grew more charged, and Max became acutely aware of a subtle, pulsating sensation at the back of his mind.

It was as if the system was preparing to bridge the gap between his consciousness and the memories of Aiden's past life.

As the one-minute mark approached, the room seemed to hold its breath in anticipation. Max closed his eyes, taking deep breaths to calm his racing heart.

He could feel the system's presence enveloping him, a comforting yet enigmatic force guiding him through this uncharted territory.

Then, as if a dam had burst, Max felt a rush of memories flood his mind. It was a sensory overload, unlike anything he had ever experienced.

With heavy panting, Max's sweat poured down his forehead. "Ahhhhaaahhhaaa," he exhaled in a mix of exhaustion and astonishment. "So, the original body's owner was David, huuuu, No last name, quite intriguing."

He saw glimpses of David's past, his childhood in a quaint village as an orphan, his training in the culinary arts, and the moments of triumph and defeat that had shaped him into the chef he once was.

Max could taste the exquisite dishes Aiden had prepared, feel the heat of the kitchen, and hear the laughter of satisfied customers. It was as if he had lived David's life, each memory etching itself into his consciousness.

But amid the vivid recollections, Max also sensed something else—a darkness that lurked at the edges of David's memories. There were moments of pain, loss, and a profound sense of longing that Max couldn't ignore.

As the memories continued to wash over him, Max realized that this synchronization process was not just a simple transfer of information.

It was an intimate journey through Max's life, a merging of two souls that would forever change the course of Max's existence in this fantastical world of magic and culinary wonders.

Max clung to each memory, determined to understand not only David's past but also the mysteries that lay ahead.

As Max delved into David's memories, uncovering a poignant tale of determination and hardship.

From David's recollections, Max learned that David had aspired to become a chef in a local noble house, all with the noble intention of providing financial support to his beloved orphanage.

However, the path to realizing this dream was paved with challenges.

To secure a position as a chef in a noble house, one needed a chef certificate issued by the Associate Chef Guild. Despite his unwavering determination, David had faced the bitter sting of failure not once, but three times in a row, leaving him disheartened and financially drained.

As Max absorbed these memories, he couldn't help but empathize with David's struggles. The weight of those repeated failures and the lack of financial means had sapped David's motivation for future endeavors.

It was a somber realization, and Max couldn't help but mutter, "He decided to depart from this world. What an undeniably tragic life."

Max pondered the significance of these memories, wondering how they might influence his own path in this new world of magic and culinary possibilities.

This synchronization was only the beginning of his culinary adventure, and Max was ready to embrace it with all the passion and determination that had defined him in his previous life as Max, the chef.

"System, I have a lingering doubt. Regarding my identity, which path should I pursue moving forward?" Max asked with a hint of confusion.

[Host, there's no need to be perplexed about which identity to adopt; it's entirely a matter of your personal choice.]

"Are there any advantages or disadvantages if I were to choose David's name for my future endeavors?" Max inquired, seeking clarity on the matter.

[No, Host, there are no issues with adopting the name David. David was an orphan from birth, and he never had a fixed residence or any significant relationships. If you choose to go by the name Max, there are also no problems. Ultimately, it boils down to your personal preference.]

"Hmmmm," Max nodded thoughtfully, appreciating the flexibility he had in shaping his new identity.

"I apologize, David. I will honor your dream as my own, but I wish to avoid any past hindrances in my future endeavors. I am committed to ensuring the orphanage's smoother operation in the days to come. I need a fresh start. I hope you can understand. Rest in peace, David."

"System, I've decided to go by my own name. Do I need any form of identity proof?"

[Host, you need not worry. The system will provide you with one.]

"Very well." With resolute determination, Max rose from the bed, ready to embark on his future endeavors.