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Chapter 45 - File AH : “Anata Hikikomori”

In the dimly lit corners of the lost library, Dreamworld Mari and Omori stood close, their hands resting gently on the spine of a worn book. As they flipped through its pages, a new story unfolded before them.

"Hey!!!! The [][][][][][][][] house finally buzzing with more things laying around, along with something new we met a very poor girl named [][][][][][]. Both [][][] and [][][][], the brothers I mean, informed us she broke her very worn-off shoe. So we decided to comfort her," read Dreamworld Mari aloud, her voice carrying a sense of curiosity and empathy.

Omori leaned in, absorbing the words with a thoughtful expression. "Oh, and my little brother [][][][][] oddly was the first to approach and speak up, despite usually being quiet and reserved outside our family circle. That got the girl quite comfortable, as me and [][][][] smiled in relief. Even the excited one, [][][], insisted we could invite [][][][][][] to hang out with us from now on..."

As the passage ended, the library's atmosphere seemed to shift, echoing the warmth of camaraderie and the potential for new friendships.

Then , He turn to Dreamworld Mari worried why she went silent touching the passage written on the pages as he uttered "Mari…what's wrong?"

Dreamworld Mari remained silent for a moment, her gaze fixed on the words in the book. Finally, she spoke, her voice tinged with a mixture of nostalgia and concern. "Omori, this passage... It reminds me of our real-world experiences, doesn't it? The [][][][][][][][] house, the girl with the worn-off shoe, and even little [][][][][]... It's like a mirror reflecting our memories."

Omori nodded, understanding dawning in his eyes. "Yeah, it does. It's like our world and dreams are intertwined more deeply than we thought."

Their quiet conversation was interrupted by a soft rustling sound from a nearby shelf. Both Dreamworld Mari and Omori turned to see a faint glow emanating from an old tome, its pages fluttering as if beckoning them to explore further.

Then , Omori felt uneasy as he facepalm "wait real world? No Mari what are you talking about—" as he turn to her which he realize she suddenly vanish by her side until he can only see remains of her presence with trails of petals of the Lily of the valley type flowers submerge to the semi-aquatic filled lost library floor.

His heart start feeling uneasy as it whispers "Follow…"

As his eyes shimmer crimson for a moment before blank as he set the book aside to follow another silhouette that this time made him angry spitting that Basil lookalike with a shadow like color uttering "Stranger!!!! What are you doing here!!!?"

As it has no reply as he runs and swiftly slice the cop webs faster before it led him to some gaps between the library aisle.

As he enters with determination he gulps witnessing a shuddering feeling why it feels familiar seeing some-sort of large piano that looks out of place since it's colors are realistically dull and not pastel when he reads what's etched in it saying "Omori" which gave him a migraine why it hurts so much.

The atmosphere in the dimly lit library grew more eerie as Omori delved deeper into this strange encounter. The sight of Dreamworld Mari's sudden disappearance and the enigmatic presence of the Basil lookalike filled him with a mix of confusion and determination. He ignored the unsettling feeling creeping up his spine and pressed on, driven by a need to understand.

As he approached the piano, its dull colors contrasting with the dreamlike surroundings, Omori couldn't shake the feeling of familiarity and discomfort. The etching of his own name on the instrument only added to the sense of unease. Was this a manifestation of his subconscious, or was there something deeper at play?

With a deep breath, Omori steadied himself and reached out to touch the piano keys, half-expecting them to produce a haunting melody. Instead, the room fell silent, amplifying the echoes of his thoughts and fears.

Then he froze feeling something watching like many dark eyes do.

Before he turn and left the room calmly breathing with his knife in hand.

Until , he groans muttering "Mari? Basil? Where have you gone-"

As he froze spotting the lookalike silhouette again for a moment before finally when he followed where it last vanish , he spot a broken trapdoor under the bookshelves and hopes this is where that imposter (Basil lookalike called stranger) went.

Omori's heart raced as he discovered the broken trapdoor under the bookshelves. It seemed like a path to unraveling the mystery surrounding the strange occurrences in the lost library. With a mix of determination and apprehension, he carefully approached the trapdoor, his knife ready for any unexpected encounters.

As he descended into the darkness below, the air grew colder and the sense of being watched intensified. Every creak and shuffle echoed in the silence, creating an eerie atmosphere that sent shivers down his spine. Omori pushed forward, driven by the need to find answers and reunite with Dreamworld Mari and the enigmatic Basil lookalike.

The journey through the hidden passages was fraught with tension, but Omori's resolve remained steadfast. Whatever awaited him in the depths below, he was prepared to face it in his quest for truth and understanding.

Then , he froze as finally there's light yet it's back at the vast forest?

As he notice a silent familiar face or rather the back of his Dream-world friend , as it was Dreamworld Basil which makes Omori smile in relief before going stoic when he ask "Hey Basil…you there Buddy? What's wrong—-"

As it cuts off as Dreamworld Basil held his photo album turning around with his eyes that is supposed to be pastel Turqoise to be red crimson to stare saying in terror "OMORI…..SOMETHING behind you…"

As Omori realize the reflection of Basil's eyes are that same something silhouette he notice for a moment for dreamworld Mari earlier before he gasp to turn around as it flash white.

He woked up in white space , Mewo is also there the black kitten nudging him a empty blank Polaroid photo piece with a key at the back saying in writing "Open the secret Box"

As he then shakes and sets it aside before crying aloud "ahhh!!!! Why? Why?! Why?!!! What's happening to me?!! What's happening to my friends?!!!"

As Omori tucked the key into his pocket, he took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves. The white space around him seemed to shimmer slightly, as if responding to his emotions. With a determined look, he focused on finding a way out of this surreal place.

He turned his attention back to Mewo, offering a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, Mewo. We'll figure this out together," he said softly, feeling a sense of connection and comfort in the presence of the familiar black kitten.

With cautious steps, Omori began to explore the white space, searching for any clues or hints that could lead him to answers. The silence was eerie, broken only by the soft sound of his footsteps echoing in the void.

As he walked, memories flashed through his mind—memories of his friends, of Dreamworld Mari and Dreamworld Basil, and of the adventures they had shared. But alongside these memories were glimpses of something darker, something that lurked just beyond his reach.

Suddenly, a faint glimmer caught his eye. It was a faint outline of a door, barely visible against the blank canvas of the white space. Omori's heart raced with anticipation as he approached the door, his hand instinctively reaching for the key in his pocket.

With a trembling hand, he inserted the key into the lock and turned it. The door creaked open slowly, revealing a passage that seemed to stretch endlessly into darkness.

Omori took a deep breath, steeling himself for whatever lay ahead. With Mewo by his side, he stepped through the doorway, determined to unravel the mysteries of this strange and unsettling place.

Then , that door fades for now as he notice it isn't the right key for this door's keyhole.

He facepalm why he is so careless before he shudders , red hands crawling around white space to keep it safe before he turn to walk around more and spot the familiar grey door that doesn't need to key but has a handle.

As he turn to Mewo headtilts as meow that means that he understands (leaving again Omori?)

Omori nodded at Mewo, understanding the unspoken question in the black kitten's meow. "Yes, Mewo. I have to find out what's going on," he said softly, a mix of determination and apprehension in his voice.

He approached the grey door, its handle invitingly within reach. With a steady hand, Omori gripped the handle and pushed the door open. Beyond it lay a swirling vortex of colors, like a whirlpool of memories and emotions.

Taking a deep breath, Omori stepped into the vortex, feeling a strange sensation wash over him. Memories flashed by—moments of joy, sadness, laughter, and fear—all intermingling in a chaotic dance.

As he moved deeper into the vortex, the colors began to coalesce, forming images and scenes that were familiar yet distorted. Faces of his friends flickered in and out of focus, their expressions a mix of concern and confusion.

With each step, Omori felt like he was unraveling a tangled web of secrets and truths, each revelation adding to the weight on his shoulders. But amidst the confusion and uncertainty, he also felt a glimmer of hope—that perhaps, by confronting whatever lay at the heart of this maze of memories, he could find the answers he sought.

Mewo stayed by his side, a constant companion in this surreal journey through the depths of his mind. Together, they pressed on, determined to uncover the truth and bring light to the shadows that threatened to engulf them.

Then , suddenly headspace fades as what wakes up in the morning was Sunny himself groaning to scratch his head and his neckbrace he worn in his sleep and confuse why he was breathing nervously and crying.

As he notice Basil was on standby napping near Sunny's side in this bedroom. (Which was Aubrey's bedroom and the other pillows and blankets are empty across the floor due to the rest of his friends must've been awake as Sunny realize to recall the real world latest memory here is sleepover to Aubrey's place)

It seems like Sunny had quite a tumultuous night, transitioning from the intense experiences in headspace back to reality. Basil's presence by his side provides a comforting reassurance that he's back in the familiar surroundings of Aubrey's bedroom. The scattered pillows and blankets serve as a reminder of the recent sleepover with his friends, although he can't quite remember the details of his dreams.

Sunny takes a moment to collect his thoughts, trying to piece together the fragments of his dreams and the emotions they stirred within him. He reaches over to gently stroke Basil's hair, finding solace in the familiar presence of his dear friend.

With a sigh, Sunny decides to get up and start the day, leaving the mysteries of headspace behind for now. He knows that he'll need to talk to his friends about his experiences, especially the unsettling ones that left him feeling anxious and confused.

As he gets ready for the day ahead, Sunny can't shake off the lingering sense of unease from his dreams, wondering what secrets and truths they might hold about his own psyche and the world around him.

Then , he jumps since as he sits up he also blush realizing he was sleeping at Aubrey's bed!!!!

As Basil wakes up fixing his flower hairclip with a smile "Ohh Morning Sunny , goodness it's a miracle this time you didn't sleep too much like yesterday hmm…you okay? Did you have another nightmare again?"

Sunny's cheeks flush with embarrassment as he realizes he's in Aubrey's bed. He quickly composes himself and gives Basil a sheepish smile. "Morning, Basil. Yeah, I'm okay, just had some weird dreams last night, nothing too serious." He rubs the back of his neck, trying to downplay the intensity of his dreams.

Basil tilts his head slightly, a concerned expression crossing his face. "Weird dreams again? You know, you can always talk to me about them if you want. Sometimes sharing helps lighten the load."

Sunny nods appreciatively, grateful for Basil's understanding. "Yeah, I might do that later. For now, let's just focus on the day ahead. I think everyone else is already up and about, so we should join them."

With that, Sunny and Basil begin their morning routine, preparing for whatever the day may bring and leaving the mysteries of last night's dreams for another time.

Then , He felt Basil has a cute pout on his face as he sighs "So Uhh….B-bAsil I assume you stayed behind to watch me sleep because?" (Oh no , did I made Basil worry again?)

As Basil utters "Sunny you promise we both communicate better and you did slowly have signs of getting better no turning back now…"

Basil's pout softens into a warm smile as he gently places a hand on Sunny's shoulder. "I stayed because I know you've been through a lot lately, and I want to make sure you're doing okay. And yeah, you're right. We've come a long way in our communication, and I believe in you, Sunny. We'll keep moving forward together."

Sunny feels a wave of gratitude towards Basil, appreciating his friend's unwavering support. "Thanks, Basil. I'm lucky to have you as a friend."

Basil chuckles softly. "The feeling is mutual, Sunny. Now, let's go join the others and make today a good day."

With that, the two friends leave the bedroom, ready to face whatever challenges and adventures await them alongside their friends.

Then , Basil notice Sunny has shaking hands with his bandages arms (up until palms of hands) as he is still panting for he utters "I just hope I didn't get sick again or fainted due to my Uhh….you know body…"

Basil nods understandingly, his expression filled with concern. "It's okay, Sunny. Let's take it easy for now. Maybe a glass of water and some fresh air will help. You've been pushing yourself lately, and it's important to listen to your body."

Sunny nods, grateful for Basil's soothing words. "Yeah, you're right. Thanks, Basil."

Together, they head to the kitchen where they find the rest of their friends chatting and preparing breakfast. Sunny takes a deep breath, feeling a bit better already knowing he has his friends' support.

And it was Aubrey happily chatting with Kel while Hero is busy talking it out with Aubrey's deadbeat mom (Ms.Wattson) how to be convince to let her daughter be whoever she wants to be 

As Kel turn fixing his side braided and ponytail of his familiar brown hair uttering with a smile "Yeah yeah Ohhh!!!! Yoo Sunny's awake!!! Yet…"

He got worried "You okay Sunny? You seem shaking…"

Kel's concern is touching. Sunny takes a moment to collect himself, offering a small smile. "Yeah, I'm alright. Just a rough dream, I guess."

Aubrey notices the exchange and joins in, her voice warm and reassuring. "Don't worry, we're all here for you. If you need anything, just let us know."

Sunny nods appreciatively, feeling grateful for the support of his friends. He takes a seat at the table, enjoying the company and the sense of belonging in this moment of togetherness.

Then , Aubrey blush when Basil tease "Yeah , Sunny is also getting used to sleeping 'someone else' bed…" hinting how last night Aubrey let Sunny sleep in first (since he got sleepy first than the rest) on her bed to be burrowed to be lay on specifically.

Aubrey's cheeks flush slightly at Basil's playful comment. She clears her throat, trying to sound casual. "Oh, yeah, it was just for one night. Sunny needed the rest, and my bed was the closest."

Kel chuckles, adding to the teasing. "Sure, sure, just a friendly slumber party, right?"

Sunny, feeling a bit embarrassed by the attention, changes the subject. "Hey, Kel, did you finish that game we were playing yesterday?"

As they start chatting about lighter topics, the mood becomes more relaxed, and Sunny feels grateful for the comforting atmosphere among his friends.

Kel paused as they look at eachother as Sunny pause facepalm as he felt his memories are jumbled with his dreams and reality uttering with a flustered soft spoken tone "no wait I mean….when I sleep in first…did you guys play late night games or also head to bed after awhile in this sleepover last night?"

Kel chuckles at Sunny's flustered tone. "Don't worry, Sunny, we just chatted a bit and then went to bed. No late-night gaming sessions this time."

Aubrey nods in agreement. "Yeah, it was pretty chill. We wanted you to get some good rest, so we kept it low-key."

Sunny relaxes a bit, glad that nothing too eventful happened while he was asleep. "Got it. Thanks, guys. Sorry for being a bit out of it this morning."

Basil smiles warmly. "No worries, Sunny. We're all here for each other, no matter what."

With that reassurance, Sunny starts to feel more at ease, knowing he has such supportive friends by his side.

Then , Hero wave at Ms.Wattson excuse herself in the backround to leave the house for now as he turn with the caretaker tone as being the eldest of the group "So Sunny , you don't seem have a fever again or fever dream right?"

Hero's concern for Sunny's well-being is evident as he checks in on Sunny's health. Sunny shakes his head with a small smile. "No fever or fever dreams this time, Hero. Just a bit of a jumbled morning, that's all."

Hero nods, relieved. "Good to hear. Take it easy today, okay? We can catch up on everything else later."

Sunny appreciates Hero's caring nature. "Thanks, Hero. I'll make sure to take it easy and sort things out."

With that, the group settles into a more relaxed atmosphere, ready to enjoy the day together.

Then , he blush as he gaze at Aubrey that gaze back at him when she ask petting her white bunny in her lap (name Bun-Bun. Gender male) "So Uhh Sunny , what happened to your 'dreamworld' stuff just now? Since base on you and Basil's expression it's not a sweet dream? Is my bed uncomfortable for your body?"

Sunny chuckles nervously, scratching his cheek. "It's not your bed, Aubrey. Your bed is actually quite comfortable," he assures her, shifting to get more comfortable himself. "It's just...I had a really strange dream, like a mix of reality and dreamworld stuff. Nothing to do with the bed at all."

Aubrey raises an eyebrow playfully. "Oh? Dreamworld stuff? Like Omori and his adventures?"

Sunny nods, relieved she's taking it lightly. "Yeah, something like that. But I'm okay now, just a bit shaken up."

Aubrey smiles reassuringly. "Well, you're here with us in the real world now. No more dreamworld troubles for today."

Sunny nods gratefully, feeling at ease with Aubrey's understanding.

Then , he silently was in awe when Kel scoot close with his dark brown eyes beaming to say "Then , any updates what your persona 'Omori' is up to? If you still don't feel jumble around I recall such details since your so vivid with these dreamworld stuff and how you make dreamworld versions of me and the others here like somesort of rpg party!!!"

Sunny smiles at Kel's enthusiasm. "Well, the dreamworld adventures of Omori and the gang are always changing," he explains, feeling more relaxed discussing it now. "In the latest dream, Omori and Dreamworld Mari stumbled upon a mysterious library with redacted entries. It had this eerie atmosphere, and Omori felt like he was being watched. It was quite intense."

Kel leans forward, intrigued. "Sounds like a thrilling mystery! Did they uncover any secrets?"

Sunny shakes his head. "Not yet. It seems like there's a lot more to unravel in that library. And there's this recurring theme of hidden truths and suppressed memories. It's like Omori is trying to keep something hidden, even from himself."

Aubrey chimes in, her curiosity piqued. "Interesting. Maybe there's a deeper meaning to it, reflecting what's going on in your real life."

Sunny nods, mulling over the idea. "Yeah, I think so too. It's like my subconscious is trying to work through some unresolved issues. Omori's journey in the dreamworld feels connected to my own struggles."

Kel nods in understanding. "Well, whatever it is, we're here for you, Sunny. Whether it's real-life challenges or dreamworld adventures, we've got your back."

Sunny smiles gratefully at his friends. "Thanks, guys. It means a lot to me."

Then , He notice Basil seems uneasy what this symbolize before Hero just added "Anything else less thrilling before that Sunny?"

As Sunny just had a late cue still trying to get morning wakeness to shift to contemplate dreamworld adventures before lost library (wait? I hope sharing that lost library related dream earlier didn't give away anything right?)

Sunny realizes the potential slip-up and quickly reassures himself. "Oh, no worries, Hero and Basil. I didn't give away anything important about the lost library. Just a glimpse of what Omori and Dreamworld Mari encountered. But it's all part of the dreamworld fun, right?"

Basil nods, but his expression remains thoughtful, indicating that there might be more to his uneasiness than meets the eye.

Before he turn to Hero and sighs "Anyways Uhh…" Sunny blush fiddling his fingers "Omori and you guys as dreamworld versions as we agreed before Uhh….we sorta went to sweetheart's castle…"

As Kel gasp "what?"

While Aubrey chuckles ""wait so the candy store mascot (sweetheart) from the faraway plaza supermarket is actually a princess in your dream? What was it like? Why did we went there?"

Sunny scratches his head, trying to piece together the dreamworld adventure. "Well, it's all a bit fuzzy now, but we went there to... uh... help Sweetheart with something. And yes, she's a princess in the dream, ruling over a candy-themed castle. It was... kind of surreal, to be honest."

Kel leans in with curiosity. "Did we meet her suitor, Capt.Spaceboy?"

Sunny nods. "Yeah, we did. It was part of some big event or celebration. Sweetheart seemed really happy, though. It was like a whole different world."

Aubrey grins. "Sounds like a wild adventure! Did we get to explore the castle and its secrets?"

Sunny nods enthusiastically. "Oh, definitely! There were all sorts of hidden passages and mysteries to uncover. It was like a puzzle waiting to be solved."

Basil interjects with a smile. "And I'm sure we made quite the team, unraveling those mysteries."

Sunny nods, feeling a sense of camaraderie with his friends, even in the dreamworld. "Absolutely. We make a great team, no matter where we are."

Then , Sunny glance at Hero before sighing "although Kel it's impressive you recall in my dreamworld version of Capt.Spaceboy he is paired up with Sweetheart…umm…besides that it looks like Sweetheart and him got together again and Uhh…she (sweetheart) sorta tried to flirt with Hero…"

As they all listen when he continued "Yet no worries Mari of that dreamworld version of her protects him…"

Aubrey raises an eyebrow teasingly at Hero. "Oh? Sweetheart trying to flirt with our brave Hero, huh? Did Dreamworld Mari have to step in to protect you?"

Hero chuckles sheepishly, scratching the back of his head. "It was... interesting, to say the least. Dreamworld versions can be quite unpredictable."

Kel grins mischievously. "Sounds like you had quite the adventure, even in Dreamworld. Did Mari's protective instincts kick in like in the real world?"

Sunny nods. "Yeah, Mari's always looking out for everyone, even in the dreamworld. It's kind of reassuring, you know?"

Basil smiles warmly. "It's good to know that even in dreams, we have each other's backs."

They all share a moment of camaraderie and laughter, reflecting on their dreamworld escapades and the bonds that tie them together, whether in reality or dreams.

Then , they pause as Sunny shudders saying "although…now I think about it is it not so bad I perceive my sister that way? Since she here in reality is Uhh…we all know—" which he hesitates again to still contemplate Mari is comatose at present (and her presence is back at the Miyamoto house - family name of Sunny and Mari).

Sunny's friends share a somber moment of understanding, realizing the weight of Sunny's thoughts about his comatose sister. Aubrey reaches out to place a comforting hand on Sunny's shoulder. "It's okay, Sunny. We're here for you, no matter what. Your dreams, your perceptions, they're all valid, especially when it comes to someone as important as your sister."

Kel nods in agreement. "Yeah, we got your back, Sunny. And Mari, too. Even if she's not here physically, she's still a part of us."

Hero adds softly, "Dreams are a way for us to process things, even the difficult stuff. It's okay to find comfort and strength in them."

Basil smiles warmly, offering his support. "You're not alone in this, Sunny. We'll figure things out together, just like always."

They share a moment of solidarity, reminding Sunny that his feelings and perceptions are valid, even in the complexity of his dreamworld adventures and real-life challenges.

Then , they chuckle when Sunny blush for his stomach grumbles 

Sunny's friends laugh good-naturedly at his stomach's timing. "Looks like someone's dream adventures have made them hungry," Aubrey teases with a grin.

Kel adds, "Time for some breakfast then! We can continue discussing dreamworld escapades over food."

Hero nods in agreement. "Sounds like a plan. Let's head to the kitchen and whip up something delicious."

As they make their way to the kitchen, Sunny can't help but smile at the warmth and support of his friends, grateful for their understanding and companionship.

Then , Basil spoke "Hey hero didn't you reserve some simply cooked breakfast sandwiches since we already ate breakfast a bit early than Sunny?"

Basil's suggestion prompts Hero to nod. "Yeah, I did. They should be ready by now. Let's go grab them and enjoy a relaxed morning together."

The group heads to the kitchen, where the aroma of freshly cooked breakfast sandwiches fills the air. They gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter as they enjoy their meal and continue their conversations about dreamworld adventures and other topics. Sunny feels a sense of comfort and belonging, grateful for the bond he shares with his friends.

Then , he and Aubrey awkwardly seated besides eachother as they still bother linger in their own blossoming feelings of eachother (which they did recall how Kel and even Basil teases them being a thing sometimes).

As Aubrey spoke "So Uhh Sunny remember when I ask you why my dreamworld version besides our ages there is based on our childhood selves 4 years ago….is there any change she has since she is so deeply infatu—I mean admiration for your idealized persona 'Omori'? Or is there change for Omori as well compare how he usually is dismissive or not too much attention to give back to her?"

Aubrey's question brings a slight blush to Sunny's cheeks as he ponders her words. "It's a bit of both, I think," he replies softly. "My dreamworld self, Omori, is definitely more attentive and caring towards her. And Mari... well, she's always seen the good in everyone, including Omori. Maybe it's a reflection of how we all see each other in our dreams—idealized versions of ourselves and our relationships."

Aubrey nods, understanding the complexity of their dreamworld dynamics. "It's interesting how our subconscious shapes these perceptions," she muses.

Sunny smiles, appreciating Aubrey's insight. "Yeah, it really is. It's like our dreams give us a glimpse of what we aspire to be or how we wish things could be."

Their conversation continues as they enjoy their breakfast, delving into deeper discussions about their dreams, aspirations, and the intricate connections they share in both the real world and their dreamworld adventures.

Then , both of them blush as Kel says "So you're admitting Sunny that means you imagine Aubrey crushing on a 'cooler' version of you? Along with a plus reciprocation of that attention 'dreamworld' Aubrey gives to Omori…"

Sunny's cheeks turn even redder as he stammers, "I-I mean, it's not like that exactly! It's just... in the dreamworld, things are different. It's not about being 'cooler' or anything like that. It's about... understanding each other in a way we might not always do in real life."

Aubrey chimes in, trying to diffuse the teasing with a playful smile. "Kel, don't make it sound like a big deal. Dreams are dreams, after all. They're not always meant to be taken too seriously."

Kel grins mischievously but relents, sensing their discomfort. "Alright, alright, just teasing. But it's fascinating how our dreams reflect our thoughts and feelings, don't you think?"

Sunny nods, grateful for the change of topic. "Definitely. It's like a window into our subconscious, showing us sides of ourselves we might not even realize exist."

Their conversation shifts to lighter topics, and the group enjoys the rest of their breakfast together, with occasional laughter and friendly banter filling the room.

Then , Basil smugly took a snap of photo of his repaired childhood Polaroid camera discreetly as Sunny turn and shook his head to sign language to Basil to never show Aubrey his flustered expression as a photo to spill the beans about his childhood crush on her.

Basil gives Sunny a playful wink and a thumbs up, indicating he understands and won't reveal anything embarrassing. He pockets the camera with a mischievous grin, clearly enjoying the little secret between them.

As the morning progresses, the group settles into a comfortable routine of chatting and planning their day. Sunny's earlier anxieties about his dreams and the lost library fade into the background as they focus on enjoying each other's company and making the most of their time together.

As Hero also serve juice drinks for everyone who especially Sunny saying "Aww it's probably normal since that means SUNNY REALLY missed us that much back before he finally left his house after 4 years coop up in it for the passes hmm…6…wait it's the 7th day now!!!!"

Hero's thoughtful gesture brings a smile to Sunny's face as he accepts the juice drink. "Thanks, Hero. And yeah, it's been a week since I left my house. Feels weird but good, you know?"

Kel adds with a grin, "Yeah, you're making progress, Sunny! Soon, you'll be out and about like old times."

Sunny nods, feeling a sense of warmth and belonging with his friends. "Yeah, thanks to all of you. It's been really helpful having you around."

The group continues their morning, enjoying each other's company and the simple pleasures of friendship.

Then , Aubrey adds with a smile as she feeds carrots to her Bun-Bun "Hehe , still remember Sunny we should still be careful since your parents did entrust us to make sure not to instantly shift your habits since you body isn't still ready for long term wakefulness and too much physical work…"

Aubrey's reminder brings a touch of seriousness to the conversation as Sunny nods in agreement. "You're right, Aubrey. I shouldn't push myself too hard too soon. Thanks for looking out for me."

Basil chimes in, "Yeah, we're here to support you every step of the way, Sunny."

With a sense of gratitude and determination, Sunny responds, "I know, and I appreciate it. I'll take things one step at a time."

Kel then added "well guess that's it for this first week we had with you hmm….say something did got me curious Sunny…why is 'Omori' black and white colored when you told us his appearance few chats ago in earlier days compare to the dreamworld version of us that is pastel colored?"

Sunny scratches his head, contemplating Kel's question. "Oh, that's because in my dreamworld, 'Omori' represents a part of me that's still processing a lot of emotions and memories. The black and white colors symbolize that it's a bit like an unfinished painting, trying to make sense of everything."

Hero nods in understanding. "So, it's like a work in progress, just like real life."

Sunny smiles. "Exactly! And I think as time goes on, 'Omori' will start to find more colors and clarity."

Basil then nudge "Oh should we also let the others know Sunny why your dreamworld itself is colorful and even the dreamworld version of me and them?"

Sunny nods in agreement. "Yeah, I think it's important for them to understand that the dreamworld represents my idealized perceptions and emotions. It's like my mind's way of processing and coping with everything, so it's more vibrant and colorful to reflect those feelings."

Hero then chuckles with a hint of humility "Guess Sunny sees me and Mari still a 'thing' to support it?"

As Kel added with a sense of appreciation "I am just glad that for some reason I am one of the most powerful of that group in Sunny's dreams with my ball related skills….wait , Sunny after you answer Hero's comment. Here's another question , how did you manage to perceive my ball skills even though before now back then if I recall I didn't pursue basketball as a kid…."

Sunny smiles, responding, "Well, Hero, it's more about how you two interact in my dreamworld. It's a representation of the bond you share, which my mind translates into you being a strong presence supporting each other. And Kel, I guess it's just my mind's way of blending real-world traits with dreamworld scenarios. Your athleticism and coordination naturally translate into those impressive ball skills."

Kel Scratch his head as Sunny continues "Although Kel , your favorite item to hold a lot when we're kids is a ball so I guess it's a coincidence I manage to just happen to let that reflect your a basketball player now at present?"

Kel speaks to clarify "So basically childhood memories in your eyes?"

Sunny nods, adding, "Yeah, Kel, it's like my mind took that childhood connection with the ball and projected it into your dreamworld persona as a skilled basketball player. It's fascinating how our memories and perceptions blend in these dreamworld adventures."

Then , Basil sighs "although it's impressive compare to everyone else I haven't change my personality much besides lately Sunny you persona 'Omori' decided to drag me more on the adventures and my weapons I carry are shears…"

As Aubrey utters "wait then , what the meaning behind me wielding an Umbrella in your dreams Sunny?" Which made Sunny blush assuming his subconscious base it on the time they had rainy day attires around the past when she enjoys the weather the most memorable then everyone else.

Sunny chuckles nervously, "Umm...well, Aubrey, it might be because you always seemed to have that umbrella with you whenever it rained, and I guess my mind associated it with your protective and caring nature, like you're shielding us from the rain and troubles."

Kel jumps in, intrigued, "Then what about me? Why a beach ball for me?"

Sunny grins, "Kel, I think it's because you've always been the playful and energetic one among us, and the beach ball symbolizes that fun-loving spirit you bring to our group."

Hero nods, "And what about me and Mari?"

Sunny ponders for a moment before replying, "Well, Hero, you've always had that chef's hat, representing your nurturing side and how you take care of us. And Mari...I think her pastel color scheme reflects her gentle and calming presence in our group."

Basil smiles, "It's amazing how our personalities and memories shape these dreamworld versions of us. It's like a reflection of our bonds and experiences."

Aubrey nods in agreement, "Definitely adds depth to our adventures in your dreams, Sunny."

He blush before it fades as they all finish their food and drinks (they just eat again to not leave Sunny alone to eat) as he utters "Well , for now I GUESS I shall check in back in my place—-thanks Aubrey for letting us sleepover at this home of yours…"

Aubrey smiles so tenderly at his gratitude

Sunny then stands up, stretching a bit, "Thanks for everything, guys. I'll catch up with you later. And Hero, thanks for the breakfast sandwiches!"

Hero modestly bows, "Anytime, Sunny! Don't be a stranger; we're here for you."

As Sunny heads out, Basil gives him a thumbs-up, "Take care, Sunny! And remember, we're just a call away."

Sunny nods with a smile, feeling grateful for his friends' support, before leaving Aubrey's house and heading back to his place, feeling a mix of emotions but also a sense of comfort knowing he has such amazing friends by his side.

As he left , Hero contemplates saying to the rest as Sunny left "So Basil tell us you seem a bit tense earlier when Sunny just woke up…is he just downplaying something about hat occurred in his dreams that made him shudder? And it seems there's signs he is deeply breathing…."

Hero's observation prompts a thoughtful silence among the group. Basil, looking slightly troubled, replies, "I noticed something too, but I don't want to overanalyze it. Sunny's been through a lot lately, and his dreams seem to reflect that. Maybe it's just a manifestation of his stress and worries."

Aubrey nods in agreement, "Yeah, I think we should give him some space and time. He'll talk to us when he's ready. But let's keep an eye on him just in case."

Kel adds optimistically, "Sunny's been improving a lot recently. I'm sure he'll figure things out. We're here to support him no matter what."

Hero nods, accepting their thoughts. "Alright, let's trust Sunny to handle things in his own way. We'll be there for him when he needs us."

With that, the group continues their day, keeping Sunny in their thoughts and ready to offer help whenever he reaches out.

Then , they chuckle when Kel adds "I hope if he is ready to return to our side again we still have that plan to have additional stuff to place at the now repaired treehouse at his house' backyard…Aand show off bonding with our own pets—me is with Hector our family dog Hero , Aubrey's bunny Bun-Bun and Mewo back at Sunny's…"

Kel's idea sparks excitement among the group, and they eagerly discuss the plans for the treehouse and bonding time with their pets. Hero nods in agreement, "That sounds like a great idea. It'll be a nice way for Sunny to reconnect with us and enjoy some relaxing time together."

Aubrey smiles, imagining the fun they'll have, "I can't wait to see Bun-Bun hopping around the treehouse. And Mewo will surely enjoy exploring a new space."

Basil chimes in, "I'll bring my shears along and maybe trim some branches to make it cozy."

With their plans set, they look forward to Sunny's return and the enjoyable moments they'll share in the treehouse.

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