In the quiet serenity of the dreamworld's Otherworld, the group gathered for a long-awaited picnic, their laughter mingling with the gentle rustle of the dreamy breeze. They had just returned Capt. Spaceboy's cherished mixtape, a small gesture that carried significant weight in their dreamworld adventures. However, the air of celebration dimmed as Capt. Spaceboy revealed the reason behind his recent somber demeanor—a recent breakup with Sweetheart. The news hung in the air, casting a subdued shadow over their gathering.
Amidst the shifting dynamics, Mari couldn't help but notice her brother Omori's silent contemplation. With a gentle nudge from her dreamworld friends, she broached the topic that had been lingering in their minds—the enigmatic shadow-like enemy that seemed to shadow their every step, threatening to disrupt their adventures. "Omori," she began, her voice carrying a mix of concern and curiosity, "how does this mysterious presence manage to follow us, almost interrupting our every move?"
Omori's silence spoke volumes, his gaze distant yet focused, hinting at untold secrets and deeper mysteries lurking beneath the dreamworld's surface. As the group awaited his response, a sense of anticipation and unease settled over them, signaling the beginning of a new chapter in their dreamworld journey.
"Sorry if I need to ask again?" Mari's voice was soft, tinged with a hint of apprehension. "This time it's not a rhetorical query or musing, it's just..."
Omori's gaze shifted away, his fingers subtly tapping against the latest keyboard piece hidden in his inventory. He listened intently as Mari continued, her concern palpable in the air. "Just what, Mari?" Omori's voice was equally soft, his tone carrying a mixture of curiosity and uncertainty. "Like I said last time when we encountered almost the same creature back at the train... I don't... know."
The words hung in the air, the silence that followed filled with unspoken questions and a sense of unease. The group exchanged glances, their expressions reflecting a shared curiosity and a hint of concern about the mysteries that surrounded them in the dreamworld. The picnic setting, once filled with laughter and camaraderie, now carried an undercurrent of tension as they grappled with the unknown and the looming presence of the shadow-like enemy.
"Either way, does it really shapeshift if it could be the same creature?" Hero's voice carried a note of skepticism mixed with curiosity as he delved into the discussion. "Kel told me and Aubrey that you guys—Mari, Omori, and Basil—saw it when using the train to meet us at Orange Oasis. It looked a bit like Basil but as a black silhouette? It even morphed into a deer to recognize Omori—"
Aubrey stood up abruptly, a frustrated huff escaping her lips. Kel, noticing her agitation, turned to her with a concerned expression. "What is it, Aubrey?" he asked, his voice filled with a mix of curiosity and worry, mirroring the group's growing intrigue and unease about the mysterious creature's abilities and intentions in the dreamworld.
Aubrey's frustration was palpable as she voiced her concern, her words carrying a mix of annoyance and genuine worry. "This could really ruin the mood," she exclaimed, her tone tinged with frustration. "I mean, we're here trying to enjoy ourselves and figure out what's going on, and this shadow thing keeps popping up, messing with us." Her gaze shifted to Omori, who remained stoic as usual, but she could sense an aura of loneliness and discomfort emanating from him, especially when discussing the mysterious creature.
Omori's silence spoke volumes, his eyes distant yet focused, betraying the inner turmoil he kept hidden beneath his calm exterior. Aubrey's concern for him grew, her protective instincts kicking in as she felt the weight of their shared experiences and the challenges they faced in the dreamworld. Turning back to Kel and the rest of the group, she added, "We need to figure this out, not just for us but especially for Omori. He shouldn't have to carry this burden alone."
Kel nodded in agreement, his expression mirroring Aubrey's determination and concern. "Let's focus on finding answers and keeping each other safe," he suggested, rallying the group's resolve and unity in the face of uncertainty and looming threats in the dream world.
Basil nodded in agreement with Aubrey's sentiment, his voice slightly trembling with curiosity. "Yeah, right... I still wonder... any guess why it looks like me often?" His question hung in the air, a puzzle yet to be solved amidst their other concerns.
Meanwhile, Omori's cheeks flushed with a light pink hue as Aubrey leaned her head against his shoulder, her action catching him off guard. He maintained a calm outward expression despite his flustered voice as he gently asked, "Aubrey... wh-what are you suddenly trying to do?" His eyes searched hers for an explanation, curiosity blending with a hint of confusion at her unexpected gesture.
As Basil's question lingered in the air, Kel chimed in with a thoughtful expression. "Maybe it's some kind of reflection or manifestation of your inner thoughts and emotions," he suggested, offering a possible explanation for the mysterious creature's resemblance to Basil.
Hero nodded in agreement with Kel's theory. "It could be related to your subconscious fears or concerns," he added, his gaze shifting to Basil with a reassuring smile.
Aubrey, still leaning against Omori's shoulder, glanced at Basil with a playful smirk. "Or maybe the dreamworld just likes copying your good looks," she teased lightly, earning a small chuckle from the group.
Mari, ever observant of her brother's reactions, couldn't resist teasing him a bit. "Looks like my little brother is becoming more expressive, thanks to Aubrey's influence," she commented with a playful wink, adding a touch of lightheartedness to the moment.
Omori, despite his initial flustered state, couldn't help but smile at the banter and camaraderie within the group. The tension from earlier discussions eased slightly as they shared a moment of playful teasing and unity, reaffirming their bond and determination to face whatever challenges the dreamworld presented.
As the playful banter continued, Omori felt a lingering sense of unease, prompting him to crawl over to Basil with a request. "Still, could we take a break for now?" he whispered softly, his eyes reflecting a hint of exhaustion and emotional strain from their recent adventure. "That adventure... it did bother everyone, so... you can cover for me, right Basil?"
Basil nodded understandingly, recognizing the weight of Omori's request. "Of course, Omori. Take all the time you need," he replied in a reassuring tone, offering his support without hesitation.
Meanwhile, Kel and Aubrey, ever curious, nosed around to whisper to each other, their voices barely audible. "What are you two muttering about?" Kel asked with a playful grin, their friendly curiosity adding a light-hearted touch to the moment.
"Uhh, nothing... Just going to leave for a moment—" Omori's voice trailed off as he hesitated, unsure of how to respond to Aubrey's question.
Aubrey, sensing Omori's unease, cutely hugged her umbrella close to her, a playful glint in her eyes. "Alone? You don't need us for this, Omori?" she teased gently, her tone carrying a mix of concern and playfulness. She glanced at Kel and the others, silently conveying that she would keep an eye on Omori and make sure he was okay, even if he needed some time alone.
Dreamworld Mari spoke softly, her voice carrying a sense of reassurance and trust. "Come on, everyone! We've trusted Omori long before this, haven't we? After countless adventures, I trust that my brother always comes back to us!" Her words were a reminder of the bond they shared, forged through trials and tribulations in the dreamworld. The group exchanged glances, nodding in agreement as Mari's words resonated with their shared experiences and unwavering trust in Omori's resilience and determination to overcome challenges.
Dreamworld Hero spoke up, his voice carrying a gentle tone of understanding. "But..." he began, pausing to gather his thoughts before continuing. "Just, if you want to express how you feel sometimes, it's okay, Omori. We're emotive too... Why else did you make up the EMOTION system of our adventures?" His words were a gentle reminder of the emotional depth and complexity that Omori had woven into their dreamworld experiences, highlighting the importance of expressing feelings and emotions, even in the midst of uncertainty and challenges.
As Omori nodded quietly and gave a thumbs-up to everyone before leaving, Dreamworld Kel turned to Basil with a curious expression. "Hey, what favor did he whisper to you?" Kel asked, his curiosity piqued by the secretive exchange between Omori and Basil. The group's attention shifted to Basil, waiting for his response and wondering about the nature of the favor Omori had asked of him.
Basil, clutching his photo album close to his chest and adjusting his floral hat with a thoughtful expression, replied to Kel's question. "Oh, he just needed a little break," Basil explained with a reassuring smile. "I'll cover for him while he takes some time for himself."
His words were met with nods of understanding from the group, who respected Omori's need for a moment of solitude. Kel grinned and patted Basil on the shoulder. "Got it, thanks, Basil. We'll make sure everything's okay here," Kel reassured him, conveying their support for Omori's well-being.
With that settled, the group returned to their picnic, the atmosphere a mix of camaraderie and concern as they enjoyed each other's company while respecting Omori's need for space.
Meanwhile, Omori followed a trail of blood-red jam-like substance through the forest, leading him back to the STUMP—a sunken-looking, bushy treehouse that held familiar yet ominous significance. As he approached, his expression shifted from curiosity to a mixture of anger and calm resolve.
"Stranger..." Omori's voice was steady, though tinged with frustration. "I thought if I collected or listened to your warnings, the blackspace wouldn't influence itself here?" His words carried a sense of questioning and a hint of accusation, directed at the enigmatic silhouette that seemed to be connected to the unsettling occurrences in the dreamworld.
The black silhouette, resembling a doppleganger of Basil with white eyes and an eerie aura, shimmered as it spoke in an echoey version of Basil's voice. Its words were cryptic, carrying an unsettling tone that sent shivers down Omori's spine.
"The blackspace is not bound by your actions," the silhouette replied, its voice echoing eerily through the forest. "Warnings are just echoes in the void, Omori. The darkness seeps through cracks, regardless of your efforts."
Omori's frustration grew as he listened to the creature's unsettling words. He clenched his fists, his determination fueling his resolve to unravel the mysteries surrounding the blackspace and its influence on the dreamworld.
Omori's grip tightened around his knife, a glint of determination in his eyes as he confronted the mysterious silhouette. "So is this why Mewo said I can't banish you or kill you?" he demanded, his voice steady despite the underlying tension. His question hinted at a deeper understanding of the limitations and consequences of dealing with the dark forces that plagued the dream world.
The stranger, a black silhouette resembling Basil but with an eerie presence, let out a sarcastic chuckle that echoed eerily through the forest. "Oh, don't misunderstand my intentions, Omori," it taunted, its voice dripping with a dark amusement. "You can't banish me or kill me because I am woven into the fabric of this world, just as you are. We are bound by more than mere actions."
Omori's jaw tightened at the creature's words, his gaze unwavering as he processed the implications of its cryptic statement. The air around them seemed to thicken with tension, a silent standoff between the determined protagonist and the enigmatic force that lurked in the shadows of the dreamworld.
Suddenly he vanish as he spoke "Farewell….old friend—"
As the black silhouette vanished with a cryptic farewell, Omori's hand reached out instinctively, but he sighed as his fingers grasped nothing but air. He shook his head, his thoughts swirling with unanswered questions.
Entering the STUMP, Omori found himself in a surreal space with a colorful stairway leading downward. Each step seemed to pulse with vibrant energy, contrasting sharply with the ominous presence of the black silhouette he had just encountered.
Descending the stairs, Omori's mind raced with doubts and suspicions. "Why... why do I need to trust him?" he muttered to himself, frustration evident in his voice. "He is not Basil... yet my friends had a point. Why out of all the looks, he chose that?"
Reaching the bottom of the stairs, Omori found himself in an internal room, a familiar space that resembled a neighbor's room. It was a curious juxtaposition, the colorful stairway leading to this mundane setting. Ahead of him stood a white door adorned with a spade symbol, beckoning him to venture further into the mysteries of the dreamworld.
As Omori left headspace and entered the white space, a familiar feverish feeling kicked in once again, causing him to kneel down and pant heavily. The surreal environment of the white space seemed to amplify his discomfort.
In that moment, Mewo, the black kitten, approached Omori with a curious yet concerned gaze. Its presence brought a sense of familiarity amidst the unsettling sensations Omori was experiencing. Meanwhile, in the background, red hands ominously shut the white door behind him, adding to the eerie atmosphere of the white space.
Weakly smiling through the discomfort, Omori muttered, "I am... fine, ughh... why do I suddenly feel weak again?" His voice was strained, the feverish sensation taking its toll on his body as he tried to push through the overwhelming fatigue. Despite his efforts to stay composed, the physical and emotional strain was evident in his expression and demeanor.
As Omori lay down, Mewo approached him and began to translate its meowing into understandable thoughts. (You must be exhausted from all your adventures, Omori," Mewo conveyed, its voice filled with empathy. "And you're probably overthinking things, which is adding to your fatigue).
Omori nodded weakly, acknowledging the truth in Mewo's words. The combination of physical exertion and mental strain had taken a toll on him, leaving him feeling drained and overwhelmed. Closing his eyes, he focused on calming his mind and letting go of the weight of his thoughts, even if just for a moment of respite.
Then he slowly push Mewo away sitting up, As he stab himself in a gasp.
Sunny woke up early in the morning, panting and disoriented from the fever dream. As he covered his breathing mouth, he realized he was still in the living room, surrounded by his friends who were all asleep in their designated spots within the bedfort setup. Kel was on the very left, followed by Basil, Hero in the middle, Sunny on the right, and Aubrey on the very right.
As Sunny sighed thinking "Uhh just a fever dream….wait—", trying to shake off the lingering effects of the dream, he suddenly became aware of something unexpected. One of his hands was gripping someone else's, and when he turned to look, he gasped silently. He found himself holding Aubrey's hand, her sleeping face radiating a peaceful beauty despite her partially dyed pink hair over her natural black.
Sunny couldn't help but facepalm as he whispered to himself, "Did I hold her hand in my sleep?" The realization of this unconscious gesture left him both surprised and slightly embarrassed, unsure of how Aubrey would react if she woke up and found their hands intertwined.
Sunny nearly jumped in surprise when he realized it was just Kel, who was deep in sleep and unconsciously shifting the shared blanket a bit.
As he settled back down, Hero fluttered his eyes open weakly, his voice laced with drowsiness. "Hmmm? Who's awake? Ohh... Sunny, you're awake? This early?" Hero's gaze focused on Sunny, a hint of curiosity in his expression at seeing Sunny up and about earlier than usual.
Sunny turned to Hero, trying to slip away his hand from Aubrey's tight grip but finding it difficult. "Uhh, morning, Hero. Yeah, just woke up," he replied shyly, his gaze flickering between Hero and Aubrey.
Hero chuckled lightly. "It's okay, Sunny. You don't have a bad dream this time, do you?" he teased gently. "Oh, and by the way, you seem to be breathing hard and panting, like you do when me and Aubrey notice before falling asleep again."
Sunny blushed slightly, realizing that his panting had likely been noticeable even in his sleep. He nodded sheepishly, acknowledging Hero's observation.
Sunny nodded in response, his curiosity piqued as he turned to Hero. "Uhh, then how did I... hold Aubrey's hand when?" he stammered slightly, trying to make sense of the situation. The realization that he had been holding Aubrey's hand without consciously realizing it added to his confusion.
Hero smirked and leaned in to whisper, "When me and Aubrey were calming your sleeping self down and checking in on you, you seemed more relaxed and stopped sweating so badly when your hands held onto hers... It surprised us, but..."
He paused, noticing the pink blush spreading across Sunny's face as he listened intently. The revelation of his unconscious comfort around Aubrey seemed to both intrigue and embarrass Sunny, adding a new layer of awareness to their interactions.
Hero sighed, sensing Sunny's understanding of the situation. "You get it now, right, Sunny?" he asked gently. "So, how were your current 'dreamworld' adventures that you've been sharing with us? Basil mentioned it, and your sketches did prove your vivid imagination..."
He leaned back, curious to hear more about Sunny's dreamworld escapades and how they intertwined with his creative expressions through sketches. Sunny's mind briefly wandered before he collected his thoughts and spoke up. "W-w-wait, I know you guys are okay. I dream about everyone based on our childhood memories, yet... Aubrey really didn't mind my unconscious sleeping self h-h-holding her hand?" His voice carried a mix of surprise and uncertainty, reflecting his internal questioning about Aubrey's reaction to their unintentional hand-holding during his sleep.
As Hero sat up, fully awake now, he leaned in to reassure Sunny. "Don't worry too much about it, Sunny," he said with a reassuring smile. "Aubrey's pretty understanding, and I'm sure she knows it was just a subconscious thing. Besides, it's not like you did anything wrong. We all look out for each other, even in our dreams."[1]
Hero scooted closer to Sunny, a look of genuine concern in his eyes. "If you don't mind me asking, since only Basil seems to understand the gist of these 'dreams' you've been having the most, how are you feeling now? Are you still feverish? Tired? Or was it not a bad dream at all this time?"
His question was gentle, reflecting his caring nature and desire to ensure Sunny was feeling okay after the unsettling experience of the fever dream and the unexpected hand-holding incident with Aubrey.
Sunny took a deep breath, trying to calm himself as he prepared to reply to Hero's question. "I'm feeling better now, Hero," he said softly, offering a reassuring smile. "The feverish feeling has mostly passed, and I'm not as tired as before. As for the dream... well, it wasn't necessarily a bad one this time."
He hesitated, avoiding any mention of the blackspace or the deeper truths he was grappling with internally. Sunny knew that discussing those aspects would only lead to more questions he wasn't ready to answer, especially not yet.
Sunny sat up and smiled at Hero. "Hey, are you curious about how your dreamworld self looks and acts there?" he asked, shifting the conversation to a lighter topic. "My dream recently finished an adventure..."
He trailed off, his thoughts drifting to the dynamics in the dreamworld and how they differed from reality. Omori's increased expressiveness and acceptance of Dreamworld Aubrey's admiration, which had evolved into unconditional love, weighed on Sunny's mind. He couldn't confess these feelings, especially with the focus on catching up after being a Hikkimori for 4 years.
Suddenly , the next person that stirred awake as Hero spoke "Uhh sure wai—" As it turns out it's Kel yawning "Grghghh….ahem…ahhh Mornjng you two wait Yooo…Sunny is awake?" As he tried not to be loud.
Kel's sudden awakening caught Hero and Sunny by surprise. Hero chuckled softly before replying, "Good morning, Kel. Yeah, Sunny's awake. We were just having a chat about some dreamworld stuff."
Sunny nodded in agreement, adding, "Yeah, just catching up a bit. Did you sleep well, Kel?"
Kel smiled brightly as he settled into the conversation. "Oh, definitely! Bedforts are the best for sleepovers," he exclaimed enthusiastically. "Speaking of dreams, are you enjoying your sleeping spot there, Sunny?"
Sunny nodded appreciatively at Kel's comment, then turned to Hero with a smile. "Yeah, maybe we could have more sleepovers like this before my temporary move," he suggested, his expression thoughtful as he mentioned Mari.
Hero patted Sunny's head gently and then casually checked his forehead for any signs of fever. "Sure thing! Rest is important once in a while," he remarked with a reassuring tone. Kel, who had been listening in the background, looked a bit confused but intrigued by the conversation's direction.
The atmosphere among the friends remained warm and friendly as they continued their morning chat, with the prospect of more sleepovers and the upcoming changes in Sunny's life lingering in the air.
As Hero checked Sunny's forehead, he raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Hmm, no fever today. Looks like you're all good," he announced with a reassuring smile.
Kel, who had crawled away from his cozy sleeping spot in the bedfort, chimed in eagerly, "Orange Joe sounds perfect for the morning! Let's head out early if we can."
The prospect of starting the day with Orange Joe, their favorite spot for morning refreshments, added a touch of excitement to their plans. The group seemed ready to embrace the day ahead, filled with camaraderie and shared moments.
The group chuckled as Sunny and Hero stood up slowly, leaving Basil and Aubrey still asleep in their respective spots.
Hero asked Sunny, "Anything specific you want for breakfast this time? Since you're up early, we can head to the Miyamoto residence's kitchen and whip something up."
The prospect of starting the day with a homemade breakfast added a sense of warmth and comfort to their plans, further strengthening their bond as friends.
Sunny's eyes lit up as he spoke, "Sure thing, Hero! Could you make a Japanese-style breakfast? I sorta miss eating onigiri... You know what that is, right?"
Hero chuckled warmly as they walked towards the kitchen, where Kel was already sipping on his orange Joe. "Of course, Sunny. Me and Kel have been friends with you and Mari since we were kids, so I know exactly what you like. Consider it done," Hero replied confidently, ready to prepare a delicious Japanese-inspired breakfast for everyone.
Kel beams "What is an onigiri again Sunny? Sorry it's been forever since me and Hero…anyone really ate such a meal…" chugs his Orange Joe to finish.
Sunny smiled at Kel's question, considering how to describe onigiri. "Oh, it's basically a rice ball, Kel. You take cooked rice, usually seasoned lightly with salt, and then shape it into a triangle or ball. Sometimes there's a filling inside, like pickled plum or grilled salmon. It's a simple but tasty snack or meal, perfect for breakfast!"
Kel's eyes widened with curiosity as he nodded along, "Ah, I see! That sounds really good, actually. Can't wait to try it!"
Hero's excitement was palpable as he looked forward to trying new dishes after years. "Definitely! Sunny, thanks for letting me stock up on new ingredients for the fridge. We'll make sure breakfast is a delicious start to the day."
Sunny nodded with a smile, feeling a sense of warmth at the prospect of enjoying a meal together with his friends. "No problem at all, Hero. I'm glad we can have this breakfast together before things get busy."
As they gathered in the kitchen, the aroma of cooking filled the air, signaling the start of a morning filled with camaraderie and good food.
Kel's excitement was infectious as he greeted Basil with a warm hug. "Yo!! , look who's awake! Our favorite plant enthusiast!" Kel's enthusiasm spread to the others in the kitchen, creating a cheerful atmosphere as they prepared breakfast together.
Basil smiled, rubbing his eyes sleepily. "Good morning, everyone. What's cooking?"
Hero grinned as he checked on the ingredients. "We're making a Japanese-style breakfast today. Sunny requested some onigiri."
Basil's eyes lit up with interest. "Onigiri? That sounds amazing! I can't wait to try it."
As they worked together to cook breakfast, the sound of laughter and chatter filled the Miyamoto residence's kitchen, a testament to the strong bond shared by the group.
Then , Basil blush as Sunny spoke softly with a calm face "Basil , thanks…for always be the reason I truly still connected with everyone.."
Sunny's heartfelt words caught Basil off guard, and he blushed slightly, touched by the sentiment. "I...uh, thanks, Sunny. You know you can count on me."
Kel's curiosity was piqued as he asked about Sunny's sudden expression of gratitude. "Where did that come from, Sunny? Did something happen?"
Sunny chuckled, trying to downplay his emotions. "Nah, just feeling grateful today. Basil's been a great friend, that's all."
The warm atmosphere in the kitchen continued as they finished preparing breakfast, enjoying each other's company and the anticipation of trying something new together.
As Aubrey groaned awake and realized she wasn't holding anyone's hand anymore, she pouted slightly. "Oh, hey Mewo. Where is everyone?" she asked, looking around the room as she sat up in bed.
Mewo meowed softly, hopping onto the bed and rubbing against Aubrey's hand. "Meow, meow," it replied, as if saying everyone was up and about.
Aubrey stretched and yawned, running her fingers through her partially dyed pink hair. "Hmm, I guess I should get up too. Wonder what they're up to on this floor," she mused, getting ready to start her day.
Aubrey followed the sound of voices coming from the nearby kitchen, where the morning light streamed in through the windows, casting a warm glow in the room. She adjusted her blue headband with a bow, the daylight catching the colors just right and adding a cheerful touch to her appearance. As she approached the kitchen, she could hear the familiar chatter of her friends, signaling the start of a new day in their shared space.
Then finally she blushed when Sunny was casually saying "And Uhh. Kel and Hero were WHAM in the dreamworld Combo besides…you know.." As Basil finished Sunny saying (while Hero cooked in the background ) "That your persona 'Omori' pays attention to Aubrey there lately?"
Sunny's casual comment caught Aubrey off guard, causing her cheeks to flush slightly. She glanced at Basil, who had finished Sunny's sentence, his words implying that Omori's dreamworld persona seemed to be focusing more on Aubrey recently. The subtle implication made Aubrey's heart skip a beat, but she tried to play it cool as she replied, "Oh, really? I hadn't noticed anything special." However, her eyes betrayed a hint of curiosity and a touch of something more beneath the surface.
Kel greeted Aubrey with a cheerful "Morning, Aubrey!" while Basil offered a warm smile and a gentle nod, his eyes reflecting a sense of camaraderie. Meanwhile, Sunny blushed slightly, realizing Aubrey's reaction to his comment and feeling a mix of embarrassment and excitement.
Aubrey waves back "Sup..So Uhh I assume you guys are just talking About Sunny'a surreal 'dreamworld'?
Kel grinned and nodded eagerly. "Oh yeah, it's like a whole other world Sunny's been telling us about! He's been sketching and narrating these wild adventures in the dreamworld. You wouldn't believe some of the stuff he's been through!"
Basil chimed in, his eyes lighting up with curiosity. "Definitely! Sunny's dream adventures are full of twists and turns. One moment he's facing off against shadowy creatures, and the next, he's solving puzzles in bizarre landscapes. It's like diving into a fantasy novel every time he shares his dreams with us."
Aubrey's interest was piqued as she leaned in, intrigued by the descriptions. "Sounds thrilling! Sunny, do you often dream of these fantastical scenarios?"
Sunny chuckled nervously, scratching his cheek. "Well, yeah, kinda. They can get pretty intense, but it's also where I get to hang out with you guys and have these epic quests. Sometimes it's like living in a game, you know?"
Hero, who had joined them in the kitchen, added with a smile, "It's amazing how vivid Sunny's dreams can be. He's like the protagonist of his own adventure, and we're all part of it in some way."
As they chatted further about Sunny's dreamworld escapades, the morning filled with laughter and camaraderie, setting a warm and friendly tone for the day ahead.
Sunny was relieved no one suspect why there's darker creatures. Yet again they did seem some of his earlier eerie drawings in his sketchbook for them before as Sunny muttered "I like the handholding—" Until blinks to pause if anyone heard that.
Next, Basil skillfully prepared drinks, Hero glanced over with a curious expression. "Handholding? In your dreams, Sunny?"
Sunny blushed slightly, realizing his slip-up. "Oh, uhh, yeah, sometimes. It's, umm, part of the adventures. You know, teamwork and all that."
Aubrey giggled playfully, nudging Sunny's arm. "Aw, that's sweet! Dreamworld adventures with a touch of romance, huh?"
Kel, ever the observant one, raised an eyebrow. "So, does that mean someone special is in these dreams, Sunny?"
Sunny tried to play it cool, taking a sip of his drink. "Well, it's all mixed in with the action and puzzles, you know. But yeah, there are some interesting dynamics in there."
Hero chuckled, changing the subject smoothly. "Speaking of adventures, Sunny, any new sketches or stories to share? Your creativity never fails to impress us."
Sunny nodded, grateful for the shift in focus. "Yeah, actually. I've been working on this concept of a hidden realm filled with ancient ruins and mysterious artifacts. It's been quite the journey exploring that in my dreams."
For the conversation flowed into creative ideas and shared experiences, Sunny felt relieved that his slip about handholding didn't lead to further questions about the darker aspects of his dreams. The morning continued with a mix of laughter, storytelling, and the warmth of friendship at the Miyamoto residence.
Then , both him and Aubrey blush as Aubrey tried to sound cool "so…is that why you h-h-held hands in your sleep to mine?" As Sunny spoke "But Hero said you didn't mind right? I am so sorr—" Aubrey lightly punch his shoulder to explain what she meant.
Aubrey chuckled, trying to ease the tension. "Hey, no worries, Sunny. It was actually kinda nice. Like a comforting gesture in the midst of all that dreamworld excitement."
Sunny smiled sheepishly, relieved by Aubrey's understanding. "Yeah, exactly! It's like we were all in it together, even in our sleep."
Kel, who had been listening in with a grin, added, "That's the spirit! Dream adventures and handholding—can't get more epic than that!"
Basil nodded in agreement, sipping his drink. "It's fascinating how our dreams can be so vivid and connected, isn't it?"
Hero, finishing up with the drinks, joined the conversation. "Indeed. It's a testament to our bond and imagination. And Sunny, if you ever need to talk about your dreams or anything else, we're here for you."
The group shared a moment of camaraderie and understanding, the morning unfolding into a blend of lighthearted banter and genuine connection. Sunny felt grateful for his friends' support and the comfort of their shared experiences, both in the real world and the dreamworld adventures that bound them together.
Aubrey turned to ask "So speaking of which, what's cooking today Hero?"ChatGPTChatGPT
Hero grinned, setting down the last of the drinks. "Today, we're having a Japanese-style breakfast, at Sunny's request. Onigiri, miso soup, and maybe some tamagoyaki if everyone's up for it."
Aubrey's eyes lit up. "That sounds amazing! I can't wait to try your cooking, Hero."
Kel chimed in eagerly, "I'm all in for trying new stuff! Bring on the Japanese feast!"
Basil nodded with a smile. "I'm curious to taste authentic Japanese dishes. It's a nice change from our usual breakfast routines."
Sunny, feeling a mix of excitement and nostalgia, added, "Yeah, it'll be like a little piece of Japan here in our home."
As Hero started preparing the ingredients, the aroma of traditional Japanese flavors began to fill the kitchen, adding to the cozy atmosphere of the Miyamoto residence. The group's anticipation for the breakfast grew, making the morning feel even more special and full of shared moments.
Kel made everyone laugh when he innocently spoke "I almost forgot Mari and Sunny's full name were Japanese…"
Kel's innocent comment sparked laughter among the group, breaking the morning silence with a light-hearted mood. Sunny smiled, reminiscing about the cultural roots embedded in their names.
"Yeah, it's funny how we have these Japanese names but grew up here," Sunny remarked, glancing around at his friends.
Basil chuckled. "It's like a blend of cultures right here in our group."
Aubrey added with a playful grin, "Guess we're multicultural by name association."
Hero, joining in the banter, said, "Well, it adds a bit of mystery and uniqueness to our group dynamic."
As they continued chatting and waiting for breakfast to be served, the warmth of friendship and camaraderie filled the kitchen, creating a cozy and enjoyable start to their day at the Miyamoto residence.
Sunny adds "Plus, Kel I also almost forgot you and Hero are Spanish right? Corazon family name?" As Hero added, "Actually Sunny was something FILIPINO too…don't know if you recall that despite not interacting with us for long."
Basil's chuckle "But Aubrey didn't we technically already ate those sort of breakfast in earlier days Hero cooked for everyone," added a light-hearted tone to the conversation as he pointed out that they had already experienced some Filipino and Spanish-inspired dishes from Hero's cooking in the past.
Aubrey chimed in with a nostalgic sigh, acknowledging Hero's culinary growth. "Yeah, it's impressive how Hero has expanded his cooking skills. Remember when we used to have simpler meals? Now, it feels like a mini food adventure every time he's in the kitchen."
Hero, who had been quietly preparing breakfast, smiled at their comments. "I've learned a lot from trying new recipes and experimenting with different flavors. Cooking for all of you is always a joy."
Kel, always ready to add humor, joked, "Well, Hero's cooking is so good, it's like he's casting a spell on us with food magic!"
The group laughed, enjoying the easy banter and the anticipation of a delicious breakfast prepared by Hero. It was moments like these, filled with laughter and shared memories, that made their time together at the Miyamoto residence special.
Sunny's eyes lit up with curiosity and delight as he savored the onigiri. "Mmm, this is delicious! Hero, what filling did you put inside this onigiri?" he asked with genuine interest.
Hero smiled proudly, pleased with Sunny's reaction. "I used a mix of grilled salmon and pickled plum. It's a classic combination that adds a nice balance of flavors," he explained.
Kel, always ready to join the culinary discussion, chimed in, "I love how the flavors blend together perfectly! It's like a taste of home."
Aubrey nodded in agreement, taking another bite of her onigiri. "Definitely one of your best creations, Hero!"
Basil, who had been quietly enjoying his meal, added with a grin, "I think we're all going to request this onigiri combo more often now!"
The group continued to enjoy their breakfast, savoring each bite of Hero's expertly crafted onigiri. It was a small moment of happiness and contentment, shared among friends who had grown closer over the years.
Hero winked and adjusted his apron with a smile. "You're welcome, Sunny! It's always fun to try new recipes, especially when they're favorites of friends," he said warmly.
Sunny nodded appreciatively, a smile spreading across his face. "I'm glad you gave it a shot. It's like a taste of nostalgia from our childhood," he remarked, enjoying the sense of familiarity and comfort that the food brought.
As they finished their breakfast, the atmosphere was filled with contentment and camaraderie. It was moments like these that reminded them of the bonds they shared and the simple joys of being together.
After they finish , Sunny ask "Although I guess I should check my phone text messages from my parents and nurse Mari.." As Kel gasp "wait , could some of us still help like the earlier days (4 days so far)? Since , maybe if you prefer us help deal with other chores you have? Like Mewo and other house stuff?"
Sunny nodded in agreement. "That's a good idea, Kel. It would be helpful if you guys could lend a hand with some of the chores around here," he replied gratefully.
Kel grinned eagerly. "Sure thing! We can make sure everything's in order and maybe even spruce up the place a bit," he suggested, already thinking of ways to make the Miyamoto residence more welcoming.
Hero chimed in, "Count me in as well. It's the least we can do to support you, Sunny, especially during this time."
With everyone pitching in, the household chores were swiftly taken care of, leaving Sunny with a bit more time to focus on his messages and other responsibilities.
Aubrey then blush as she ask "So Sunny For context…any reason that your were breathing Badly in your sleep last night for a short moment before calming down when unawarely hold my hand to feel better?"
Sunny blushed slightly, realizing that Aubrey had noticed his discomfort during his sleep. "Oh, that... It's just that I had a strange dream, nothing to worry about," he replied, trying to downplay the situation.
Aubrey raised an eyebrow playfully. "Strange dream, huh? Well, if you ever want to talk about it or anything else bothering you, you know you can always count on us," she reassured him with a warm smile.
Sunny nodded appreciatively. "Thanks, Aubrey. I'll keep that in mind," he said, feeling grateful for the support of his friends.
[1] His words were meant to ease Sunny's concern and reaffirm the strong bond of trust and understanding within their group, both in the real world and in the dreamworld adventures they shared.