It opens with Basil continuing his storytelling, his words weaving through the dreamworld like a gentle melody. The dreamworld friends, captivated by his tale, listen intently, unaware of the subtle shifts occurring in the background.
As Basil speaks, Omori feels a shudder coursing through him. Glancing behind, he spots a faint silhouette—an enigmatic Doppler resembling Basil but with an eerie aura. The dreamworld, once a canvas of creativity, now takes on an undertone of mystery and uncertainty.
The dreamworld friends remain engrossed in Basil's narrative, unaware of the peculiar presence lingering in the periphery. The stage is set for a new chapter, one that transcends the boundaries of the familiar dreamworld, hinting at unforeseen developments and challenges that lie "Beyond."
He stops staring and spacing out when Mari asks him "Hey Omori you okay? You spaced out…."
Omori snaps back to attention, his gaze refocusing as Mari's concerned voice pulls him from his momentary distraction. He manages a subtle nod, offering a faint smile to reassure her. "Yeah, I'm okay. Just lost in thought," he replies, his stoic demeanor concealing the complexities of his emotions.
Mari, perceptive as ever, studies him for a moment before gently patting his shoulder. "If you ever want to talk about it, I'm here," she offers her warmth a comforting presence in the dreamworld.
As the dreamworld friends continue their shared adventure, Omori carries the weight of that strange Doppler's silhouette in the back of his mind, a subtle undercurrent of unease beneath the surface of their imaginative journey.
He brushes it off thinking "Probably just my odd thinking—" Ignoring the peculiar sight, Omori redirects his focus to the enchanting tale that Dreamworld Basil is spinning. The narrative aligns seamlessly with Basil's gentle and contemplative nature, drawing Omori and the others into a world of imagination.
As the dreamworld story unfolds, Omori finds himself captivated by the nuances and details, momentarily letting go of the earlier unease. The dreamworld becomes a sanctuary where tales take flight, offering a brief respite from the complexities of his thoughts and the mysteries that linger in the periphery.
Basil's voice carries a soothing cadence as he continues to narrate, each word painting vivid images in the dreamworld. His tale unfolds with a delicate touch, exploring themes of friendship, resilience, and the beauty found in the simplest moments.
He describes a fantastical landscape where the colors dance with every emotion and the air is filled with the sweet scent of nostalgia. Dreamworld Basil's narrative weaves seamlessly through the hearts of the dreamworld friends, resonating with their individual experiences and dreams.
As Basil narrates, the dreamworld itself seems to respond, embracing the story with vibrant hues and gentle melodies. The characters within the tale come to life, mirroring the emotions of the dreamworld friends. In this shared narrative, they find solace, connection, and a deeper understanding of each other's hopes and fears.
He added "And so like a poem, our amazing story is weaved to grow like a garden with never before….a Sprout Mole became a BLOSSOM mole…a unique being that might actually teach Sweetheart the idea of SELF humble love…."
Basil's words resonate with poetic elegance as he continues, adding a layer of metaphor to the unfolding narrative. The dreamworld becomes a garden of emotions, each character represented as a unique blossom in this vibrant landscape. The Sprout Mole's transformation into a Blossom Mole symbolizes growth, self-discovery, and the potential for positive change.
As Dreamworld Basil paints this imaginative picture, the dreamworld friends absorb the essence of the story, finding inspiration in the idea of transformation and the subtle beauty that comes with it. The dreamworld itself seems to echo the sentiments, with the colors intensifying and the air carrying an ethereal melody, creating a harmonious blend of storytelling and shared experience.
Then, Kel asks "Can I ask before you continue!! Are you telling a new story or basing it on our adventures?" Basil, with a gentle smile, responds to Kel's question, "Ah, my dear Kel, it's a bit of both. A tale inspired by our adventures but crafted anew, like a tapestry woven with threads of our shared experiences. The dreamworld, you see, is a canvas where imagination and reality dance together."
Kel's eyes light up with curiosity as he eagerly awaits the continuation of the narrative, and Dreamworld Basil, recognizing the enthusiasm in his friend's expression, seamlessly merges the essence of their real adventures with the imaginative twists of the dreamworld tale. The line between reality and fiction blurs as the story unfolds, creating a unique and captivating blend that resonates with each dreamworld friend in its way. Aubrey nudge Omori a whisper "Is that okay for the game for Basil to do that?"
Omori glances at Aubrey, his expression unchanging, but his eyes reveal a subtle contemplation. He nods slightly, acknowledging Aubrey's question. The dreamworld operates on a different set of rules, where imagination and reality intertwine. In this space, the boundaries between their adventures and the stories they create are fluid, allowing for a dynamic and ever-evolving narrative.
With quiet reassurance, Omori indicates his acceptance, signaling that Dreamworld Basil's approach to storytelling aligns with the whimsical nature of their dreamworld adventures. Aubrey, satisfied with the unspoken agreement, turns her attention back to the unfolding tale, ready to immerse herself in the imaginative world crafted by Basil's words.
Basil guides the dreamworld friends through the final stages of his enchanting tale. The narrative gracefully unfolds, building towards a poignant and uplifting conclusion. Each word seems to carry the weight of shared emotions, and the dreamworld responds in kind, adapting to the evolving atmosphere of the story.
As Basil brings the tale to its culmination, there's a collective sense of fulfillment among the dreamworld friends. The story's resonance lingers in the air, leaving behind a trail of inspiration and camaraderie. In the dreamworld's ever-shifting canvas, the conclusion of Basil's story becomes a moment of shared reflection and appreciation for the beauty found in the simplicity of friendship and growth.
Basil spoke "And that my friends is a story preserving the memory of such events within it.." As Hero spoke "Amazing Basil!!! Bravo!!! When did you want some Poetry?"
Basil, having concluded his narrative, basks in the warmth of his friends' reactions. Hero, ever eager to contribute to the creative atmosphere, offers to share some poetry. The dreamworld anticipates the poetic interlude, embracing the prospect of another imaginative expression.
The dreamworld friends, now immersed in the creative ambiance, eagerly await Hero's poetic contribution, ready to continue the shared journey of storytelling and artistic exploration within this fantastical realm.
Basil blushed and went wallflower mode as he sat back down "Nothing, I just like reading the books when one time Omori lent me some good books…." As Kel asks "Wait—" turns to Omori "You did give him books? From which location here?"
Omori, maintaining his usual stoic demeanor, nods subtly in response to Kel's inquiry. He doesn't provide specific details about the location within the dreamworld where he shared books with Basil, allowing the subtle mystery to linger.
Basil, still in wallflower mode, smiles appreciatively at the memory of the books Omori shared, his blush indicating the depth of his gratitude for the thoughtful gesture within the dreamworld. The dreamworld friends, intrigued by this exchange, find themselves drawn into the interconnected threads of memories and shared experiences woven within their collective narrative.
Kel frowns before smirking "Sooner or later Omori when I WIN as leader for this game you will answer my questions!!!" Before Mari clap her hands standing up "Now now, that is all for now Kel…Basil did his part and I am sure Omori has a reason to hide something personal. Now…Guess I am the last contender—" giggles as she sways her skirt that has a piano pattern than her usual schoolgirl pastel look. With additional heart-shaped earrings, still a dark shade of purple hair. wears socks and school shoes as she is the only one matching eye color of black-grey to Omori's but hers is dilated with life!!!
She gracefully takes the spotlight, ready to contribute her part to the ongoing game of shared storytelling within the dream world.
As Mari begins to share her tale, the dreamworld friends, now accustomed to the ebb and flow of their imaginative game, eagerly listen. The dream world itself, attuned to the whims of their collective creativity, embraces Mari's narrative with an array of colors and harmonious melodies, creating a captivating ambiance for the unfolding story.
Mari, perceptive to the subtle shifts in Omori's demeanor, notices the rare soft smile that graces his usually stoic expression. The dreamworld's gentle illumination seems to respond to this fleeting moment of anticipation, casting a warm glow around them.
In this shared dreamscape, where emotions and stories intertwine, Mari's narrative takes on a special significance, creating an atmosphere of connection and understanding among the dreamworld friends. The dream world itself, a canvas of imagination, awaits the next chapter of their collaborative journey.
Mari says "This tale is about true happiness for the protagonist and everyone in it…"
Mari's words weave a promise of joy and fulfillment as she sets the stage for her tale. The dreamworld friends, entranced by the anticipation of a story centered on true happiness, listen intently. The dreamworld responds with a subtle shift, enhancing the colors and melodies in harmony with Mari's narrative.
As the protagonist's journey unfolds within the dreamworld, Mari, with the grace of a storyteller, guides her friends through a tapestry of emotions, sharing the essence of what true happiness means in this fantastical realm. The dreamworld, in sync with Mari's narrative, becomes a living canvas, capturing the essence of their collective imagination and the boundless possibilities of dreams.
Mari's choice of a tale centered on true happiness intrigues the dreamworld friends, prompting even Hero to ponder the significance. The dreamworld itself seems to echo this curiosity, its ethereal atmosphere embracing the unfolding narrative with heightened anticipation.
As Mari delves deeper into the story, her words become a tapestry of emotions, painting vivid scenes of joy, growth, and connection. The dreamworld responds dynamically, shaping itself to reflect the essence of each moment. The friends, captivated by the unfolding tale, find themselves drawn into a shared exploration of what true happiness means within the fantastical landscapes of their collective dreams.
Mari's story unfolds with a vivid portrayal of the protagonist's journey toward true happiness. In the dreamworld's ever-shifting canvas, scenes come to life with radiant hues and ethereal melodies, mirroring the emotions woven into Mari's narrative.
The protagonist, guided by the gentle hand of fate, embarks on a quest of self-discovery and meaningful connections. Through moments of laughter, shared adventures, and heartfelt exchanges, the dream world blossoms with the essence of happiness. The characters within Mari's tale resonate with the dreams and aspirations of the dreamworld friends, creating a shared space where emotions dance freely.
As Mari continues to narrate, the dreamworld responds with subtle magic, enhancing the story's impact. Each word becomes a brushstroke, painting a picture of a world where true happiness is not just an elusive concept but a tangible, shared experience. The dreamworld friends, enveloped in the enchanting narrative, find themselves immersed in a collective journey toward joy and fulfillment.
As Mari's narrative unfolds, the dreamworld responds with enchanting visuals and harmonious melodies. The friends, caught in the mesmerizing tale of true happiness, feel a collective warmth that permeates the dream world.
Yet, amid Omori's satisfaction and the shared joy, something subtle shifts. As he blinks, a fleeting moment casts Mari in a different light. Instead of seeing her as she is, Omori perceives a momentary distortion, a glimpse of something that triggers an unexplained disquiet within him.
The dreamworld, attuned to the ebb and flow of emotions, subtly echoes this uncertainty. The ambient colors momentarily lose their vibrancy, and the melodies waver, creating a dissonance that contrasts with the overall harmony of Mari's storytelling. In this ephemeral moment, Omori's keen observation hints at an underlying complexity within the dreamworld's tapestry.
Omori, perturbed by the transient distortion, blinks again, hoping to dispel the unsettling vision. Yet, when his eyes reopen, Mari remains the beacon of joy, immersed in her narrative.
The dreamworld, ever responsive, attempts to restore its harmonious ambiance. Colors regain their brilliance, and melodies resume their enchanting cadence. The dissonance becomes a mere echo, fading into the recesses of the dream world.
As the story progresses, Omori, torn between the haunting moment and the beauty of Mari's tale, continues to observe with a mix of satisfaction and an unspoken unease. The dream world, a realm where reality intertwines with imagination, holds its breath, waiting for the next chapter to unfold, uncertain of the ripples that this fleeting disquiet might cause in the fabric of their shared dreams.
Before he can slowly crawl away Basil whispers as Mari tells her story in the background "You alright Omori?"
Omori, still grappling with the subtle unease from the fleeting distortion, looks to Basil with a nod. The gentle inquiry from his friend momentarily grounds him, and he responds in a hushed tone, "Just a strange moment, Basil. It passed."
As Mari's story weaves on, Omori continues to watch, the echoes of that transient vision lingering in the corners of his consciousness. The dream world, unaware of the subtle disturbance, immerses itself in the narrative, embracing the magic that accompanies Mari's words.
As Mari reaches the climax of her story, Omori, after a moment of inner turbulence, finds solace in the crescendo of emotions. His heartbeat, once unsettled, steadies and a calming breath passes through him. The dreamworld, too, responds to this tranquility, enveloping the friends in the serene beauty of Mari's narrative.
The disquiet that briefly clouded Omori's perception now dissipates, leaving him with a profound sense of peace. As Mari's tale concludes, the dreamworld holds its collective breath, captivated by the aftermath of a story that transcends the boundaries between dreams and reality.
Afterward, Omori stood up and speak to whisper to Mari "You're the winner now Mari, dear big sister please be a leader for now and I will be right back. Since I need to go back to the [Bushy Treehouse] Stump…"
Mari, with a gentle smile, acknowledges Omori's words. "Of course, Omori. Take your time. We'll be here when you return." The dreamworld, ever responsive to the dynamics between the friends, adjusts to this shift in leadership as Mari graciously steps into the role. Omori, with a quiet nod, ventures back toward the familiar white door leading to the Stump, his thoughts echoing the remnants of the subtle disturbance he experienced earlier.
As he entered he is back in white space, but instead, he found a missing keyboard piece to hold confused then he shuddered when a whisper of the stranger with Basil's voice whispered "You can't be delusional forever…"
In the surreal expanse of white space, Omori, confronted by the absence of a keyboard piece, feels a disconcerting sense of disarray. The haunting whisper, resembling Basil's voice yet laden with an ominous warning, sends shivers down his spine. The dreamworld, usually a realm of comfort and familiarity, takes on an unsettling hue.
Uncertain and on edge, Omori grapples with the implications of this mysterious encounter, his thoughts intertwining with the intricate threads of the dreamworld's enigmatic narrative. The ephemeral disturbance he felt earlier gains a haunting resonance, leaving him to navigate a realm where reality and illusion blur in unsettling harmony.
As it flickers a bit with his only light bulb of white space, Mewo nearby meows and purrs to comfort Omori (You okay? Hopefully I can cheer you up) Mewo's comforting presence and soft purrs offer a soothing respite in the flickering expanse of white space. The enigmatic surroundings seem to dance with uncertainty, but the steadfast companionship of the fluffy black cat provides a gentle anchor for Omori.
As he contemplates the cryptic events unfolding in this peculiar realm, Mewo remains a source of comfort, a silent companion in the ever-shifting landscape of dreams and whispers.
He knelt down. before Mewo and asked "Say is there another way I can LEAVE? Lately using my knife seems repetitive.."
Mewo, with a thoughtful meow, tilts its head in contemplation. The white space, usually a canvas for Omori's whims, appears to challenge him in ways unfamiliar. As he seeks an alternative to the repetitive use of his knife, the dreamworld responds with a subtle shift, as if pondering the request.
In this moment of uncertainty, Omori and Mewo stand together, awaiting the dreamworld's response to a question that transcends the usual boundaries of their interactions.
As Mewo meows, Omori interprets the feline companion's response, finding a silent understanding in their connection. The dreamworld, ever enigmatic, seems to acknowledge this unspoken exchange.
With Mewo by his side, Omori contemplates the subtle nuances of this peculiar realm, searching for a departure that diverges from the familiar rhythm of his knife's ethereal dance. In the quiet companionship, a path unknown begins to reveal itself, beckoning Omori to navigate the dreamworld's mysteries in a way yet unexplored.
With Mewo's guidance and a newfound understanding, Omori decides to explore an alternative path for leaving the white space and the dreamworld. Instead of relying on the repetitive use of his knife, he gazes around the expansive void, seeking a different entry point to reality.
Mewo, sensing his determination, subtly directs him toward a shimmering portal that appears in the distance. Omori, driven by curiosity and a willingness to embrace change, approaches the new appearing door, uncertain of what lies beyond.
As he steps through, the dreamworld unfolds its mysteries in ways unforeseen, and the white space gradually gives way to a different facet of this intricate realm.
He even commands the random wormlike red outline white hands to not stop him as he touches a Grey door and it fades his vision.
As the sunrise bathes his face with its gentle warmth, Sunny awakens to the tangible reality of his bedroom. The remnants of the dreamworld's enigma linger, leaving behind a trace of the surreal journey he undertook as Omori. The migraine throbs persistently, a lingering echo from the intricacies of the dream.
In this waking world, surrounded by the familiar sights of his room, Sunny grapples with the residue of the dreamworld's influence, his thoughts entangled between the realms of slumber and consciousness. The experiences as Omori continue to cast their shadow, a dreamlike haze blending with the morning light.
Then, he gasped as he noticed missed text messages and calls from his parents asking if he could still manage to maintain Mari's body movement or massage routine and life support of the tools/small machines around her comatose body and bed nearby.
The weight of responsibility descends upon Sunny as he absorbs the urgency of his parents' messages. The reality of caring for Mari in her comatose state demands his immediate attention. Balancing the demands of this responsibility with the echoes of the dreamworld's mysteries, Sunny faces a dichotomy that defines his waking hours.
As he navigates the tasks outlined by his parents, the contrast between the dreamworld's ethereal landscapes and the tangible, somber duties of the waking world remains palpable. Sunny, now fully immersed in the challenges of his reality, embarks on a day where the lines between dreams and responsibilities blur in intricate patterns.
With a sense of purpose, Sunny diligently tends to the needs of his comatose sister, Mari. The routine involves maintaining her body movement, executing massage routines, and ensuring the proper functioning of the life support tools and machines that surround her. Each task is performed with a mix of care and concern, as he navigates the delicate balance between being a devoted brother and fulfilling the responsibilities thrust upon him.
The room becomes a haven of whispered hopes and silent prayers, where Sunny finds solace in the small gestures that may contribute to Mari's well-being. As he moves through the day, his thoughts oscillate between the stark reality of the present and the dreamworld's elusive mysteries, creating a tapestry of emotions that define his journey in this intricate narrative.
He then gazes at Mari with a small smile before going stoic speaking as he fix her hair "There, morning Mari…Another day….So Uhh, hope you keep living well…" as he scratches his arms due to the many bandage wraps due to his attempted wounds and scars of self-harm and fix his thinner neck brace to protect his attempt of that sense of danger as well beneath his usual clothes.
Sunny's morning ritual unfolds with a tender touch, a smile, and a stoic acknowledgment of the challenges that persist beneath the surface. The physical scars on his arms and the neck bracket bear witness to his struggle against the darkness within. The routine becomes a silent dialogue, where words are exchanged not through spoken language but through the meticulous care he provides for Mari.
As the day unfolds, Sunny continues to navigate the intricate dance between his responsibilities and the echoes of the dream world. Each moment becomes a thread in the narrative, weaving a story of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
He then yawns, checking the window and opening the curtains at least to let more sunlight beam at his room. Before, feeling hungry again as he muttered "Yes Breakfast!!!!"
Sunny's day begins with a yawn, a glance at the window, and the energetic decision to open the curtains, inviting the morning sunlight into his room. The prospect of breakfast becomes a welcomed thought, adding a touch of everyday normalcy to the complex tapestry of his life between the waking world and the dreamworld's enigmatic landscapes.
His morning is accompanied by the pleasant chirping of birds, setting a serene atmosphere. However, the prospect of navigating the stairway triggers his phobia of heights, casting a shadow on the otherwise ordinary day. The tension between the comforting sounds of nature and the looming challenge ahead creates a subtle dichotomy in his emotions.
Despite the uneasiness from his fear of heights, Sunny resolves to face the challenge as hunger grumbles in his stomach. With a deep breath, he cautiously approaches the stairway, taking measured steps to overcome the discomfort. The internal struggle between fear and the necessity of daily life adds a layer of complexity to his routine, highlighting the resilience required to navigate both physical and emotional obstacles.
Despite seeing the hallucination of a phobia being. He ignored and internally felt to imagine Mari needs him to stay strong and breathe to also finally reach downstairs as the delusion vanished. He turn to relief exhale before groaning "Ughh so hungry…."
Sunny, overcoming the daunting stairway, takes a moment to sigh in relief. The hunger becomes a more immediate concern, prompting him to focus on the practicalities of his day. The blend of ordinary challenges and his internal struggles continues to shape his journey in this alternate reality.
Sunny hurries to the kitchen, scanning the available ingredients and contemplating what he can prepare for a satisfying meal. The aroma of cooking begins to fill the air as he engages in the familiar routine of meal preparation, finding solace in the simple act of nourishing himself amidst the complex emotions surrounding Mari's condition.
Sunny opts for a comforting and familiar breakfast, deciding to make scrambled eggs with a sprinkle of cheese. As he cracks the eggs into a bowl and starts whisking them, the rhythmic sound of cooking becomes a therapeutic melody, momentarily easing the weight on his shoulders.
Then, as he hums a bit. He heard his cell phone ringing and he finally answered "Hello? Miyamoto residence" he said in his family name. Until it was Basil for the morning speaking
Basil's voice greets Sunny, "Hey, Sunny! How are you doing today?" Sunny cooked his breakfast in the background and let the cell phone be on his shoulder as he spoke "G-g-great actually, hehe slightly slept deeper than last time Basil and well….Making myself breakfast since Mom and Dad aren't around…."
Basil replies, "That's good to hear! And breakfast sounds nice. What are you making?"
Sunny prepping his own set of plates for his table before responding "Just some eggs and toast, nothing fancy. How about you? What's up this morning, Basil?"
Basil chuckled, "Oh, you know, the usual. Planning to visit Mari later. How's she doing today?" Sunny almost blinks with the clicks of the stove that he used for his meal and is finally done sweating "Oh? You want to come in the house later unm….Yeah, she's fine, still not awake as always…." He says softly almost joking for himself
Basil responds, "I'll drop by later then. By the way, I was thinking about our dreamworld adventures last night. It's kind of therapeutic, don't you think?"
He gulps as he asks "Basil? What did you just say?" He says nervously and confused even as he finally eats his breakfast at the table.
Basil chuckles, "I just mentioned how our dreamworld adventures feel therapeutic, you know, exploring together and all. Anyway, I'll see you later, Sunny. Take care."
He nods as it ends the call as he feels confused "hmm? It's impossible for me and Basil to share dreams….No no, in my dreams Basil wouldn't know me as SUNNY right? Rather…" breathes as he eats peacefully "It doesn't make any sense…." As Sunny ponders, he finishes his breakfast and glances at the clock. The day unfolds, filled with the routine of caring for Mari and navigating the challenges of his world. The dream world and its mysteries linger in the background, leaving him with a sense of curiosity and unease.
Then finally he heard a doorbell by the door. It wasn't Basil, he nervously thought it must be mail or 'something'…despite the nervousness he heard a familiar yet just the speaking style. Since the voice sounds raspier and deep. For it was Kel saying "Sunny!!!! Sunny!!! Can you please answer the door this time?! It's Kel!!! Wanna try coming out?"
Sunny hesitates for a moment, then sets aside his concerns and makes his way to the door. Opening it, he finds Kel standing there, an eager grin on his face. "Hey, Sunny! Long time no see! Mind if I come in?"
Then Sunny gasped, rubbing his eyes at how different the dreamworld Kel was from this reality. He pinches his arm subtly to stay not detach from reality sometimes. As Sunny replied with a calm expression "Uhh sure? Wait, why didn't I answer you before? For how long?" As Kel exhaled with his tall stature and all got he uttered "Hehe, awkwardly you're been too busy at your own house for like 3-4 years since you know?"
Sunny scans the Kel of reality properly. the usual tan, just more hairy armpit, and legs? his orange patterned basketball player outfit. Along with his usual short androgynous brown hair now tied into a ponytail as it grew on him.
Sunny's eyes widen with surprise. "Wait? That long? Really?" he says, trying to process the information. "Well, come on in, Kel. It's good to see you again. Have a seat. Do you want something to drink?"
Kel shook his head as he came in to hunch down a bit before standing up inside the house "Wait—" he noticed Sunny blushing with a straight face when Kel touched his arm and checked his neck "Why you have so many injuries?"
Sunny looks away briefly before responding, "Oh, those? Just some clumsiness, you know how it is. I've been a bit... off lately." He chuckles, trying to downplay it. "Anyway, how have you been, Kel? What brings you here after all this time?"
As he scratch his head awkwardly "Since it's rude of me not coming out in this place for that long…."
Kel grins, "No worries, Sunny! I just thought it's been a while, and I wanted to catch up. Plus, Aubrey was bugging me to visit. You know how she is."
He then shifts the topic, "By the way, how's everything going on your end? I haven't heard much about what you've been up to."
He dragged Kel to the kitchen where he is still getting seconds for his breakfast "Hmm…here…and uhh A-A-Aubrey really? She umm….wants to check on me through you?"
Kel chuckles, "Yeah, she's worried about you, man. We all are. It's like you disappeared for a while. But hey, no pressure. You've got your own thing going on. Aubrey just cares, you know?"
He exhales in guilt as he eats his second serving of eggs and toast for he asks "Even if….well due to Mari probably being in that state for 3-4 years….you all are still friends I hope?"
Kel nods, "Absolutely, Sunny. Friends stick around, no matter what. We've all been through a lot together, and we're not going anywhere. Aubrey's just a bit more... expressive about it, you know?"
As Sunny finishes his breakfast, Kel adds, "So, anything exciting happening today? Or just the usual Sunny day?"
Sunny chuckles lightly, "Yeah, just another 'Sunny' day, I suppose. Anyway, it's good to have you around, Kel. Sometimes, the usual days are the best."
As they continue chatting, Sunny begins to feel a sense of comfort in having a friend like Kel around, a connection to the world outside his complex thoughts and dreams.
Kel spoke "Really? Then, that's great!!! Even though you probably got too comfortable in just your house you know?" He says kindly with a smile. Then he showcased his basketball "Did you know I actually grew a growth-spurt?"
Sunny glances at the basketball and chuckles, "Well, looks like you've been busy growing both in height and probably in basketball skills. That's impressive, Kel. How's your game now?"
As he noms his meal.. debating if his question isn't weird for his Hikkimori background. Kel grins, "Thanks, Sunny! I've been practicing a lot. The height advantage helps with dunking, you know? I even joined a local basketball league. It's been fun playing with a team. But enough about me. How about you? What have you been up to lately?"
Sunny gulps down his meal "What? Me? Well if I am too busy being by myself in this house besides taking care of Mari here Uhh…I guess sleeping like…uhh lot?"
Kel chuckles, "Hey, everyone needs some good sleep. But maybe it's time to venture out a bit more, you know? We've all missed having you around. Aubrey especially. She's been bugging me to convince you to join us for some real-life adventures. What do you say?"
He blinks nervously "Really? Then why did it take so long for me to umm…realize how much I missed things and you guys didn't bug me as much as before until now?"
Kel grins, "Well, you know how we are. We figured you needed your space, but we're here whenever you're ready to join the real world again. Plus, it's more fun with you around! Aubrey won't stop talking about it."
He blinks until he understands what Kel meant as Kel said "Well you know how we are. We figured you needed your space, but we're here whenever you're ready to join us outside your house!!! Plus, it's more fun with you around-" then continues about Aubrey… Sunny laughs nervously "You sure Kel? And Mari would be okay here?" As Kel asks "Well yeah as even Basil texted me about you the one maintaining her health yes?"
Sunny nods reluctantly, Kel scoots close suddenly, "Exactly! You're doing a great job taking care of Mari. But you know, sometimes it's good to step outside and have some fun. Plus, we miss you, Sunny."
Sunny blushed a bit embarrassed a bit "what? No way you miss me guys!!!! I am just the 'baby' of our group…." Kel grins, "Nah, we miss our friend. You're not just the 'baby,' Sunny. You're an important part of our group, and we want you with us. So, what do you say? Ready to have some fun and spend time with your friends?"
He glanced at the sunbeams by the windows of the kitchen as he set aside the dishes. He stood up "Well, let me take my time okay? I need to Uhh…" glanced at itching arms of bandages "Replace these….by myself"
Kel nods understandingly, "Sure thing, Sunny. Take your time. We'll be outside when you're ready."
He blinks "We?" As Kel winks "Basil is outside too yet too shy to come inside since I assured him I can check on you and Mari for us!!!" Innocent tone as he asks "Is she still not waking up?" As Sunny nods reluctantly before speaking up walking upstairs slowly "Still Kel, tell Basil, especially beside Aubrey thanks for still not forgetting about me and….Mari…."
Kel smiles warmly, "Of course, Sunny. We'll always be here for you. And about Mari, maybe one day, things will change. Until then, you got us, okay?"
He nodded as Kel left the house and Sunny went to the bathroom. Groaning at his guilt and coughs before he denies it by using a box cutter to subtly wound his wrist and arm again before gasping. Feeling small pains to start using new bandages for his arm and wrist.
Sunny carefully replaces the bandages on his arm and wrist, wincing slightly at the pain. As he finishes, he takes a deep breath, trying to gather his thoughts and cope with the emotional turmoil he's facing. The echoes of his past actions linger, but he continues to navigate through the challenges that life has thrown at him.
Then, he smiled softly at how different reality was to his dreams for so long that he almost forgot this is the summer season. So, onward he finally fixed his neck brace more before returning outside which shocked his eyes due to the lack of sunlight exposure and it was Basil and Kel waiting for him. Basil asks with concern "Ohh Sunny!!! We can't believe it!!! You are finally coming out of your house—"
Sunny chuckles nervously, scratching the back of his head. "Yeah, it's been a while, hasn't it? Sorry about that. How are you both doing?"
Basil smiles warmly. "I'm doing well, thank you. Kel here filled me in on what's been going on with you. It's good to see you outside."
Kel adds, "Yeah, we've been catching up a bit. So, what's your plan for today, Sunny?"
He blinks "What me? But I've never been outside in a while I probably forgot all of faraway town spots…" fiddles his fingers.
Basil chuckles reassuringly. "That's okay, Sunny. We can show you around again. It'll be like old times."
Kel nods in agreement. "Yeah, we can go to some familiar places and maybe check out some new spots too. It'll be fun!"
He felt them huddle close to him. Then Kel casually surprised both Sunny and Basil when he carried Sunny. Teasing "Woah you're lighter than normal now….what sort of sleeping or routine at your house made you like this buddy?"
Sunny laughs nervously. "Uhh, I guess I've been... managing my diet better?" he suggests, trying to keep things light as Kel carries him. Basil grins, happy to see Sunny finally stepping outside.
However, Sunny felt Basil was also hiding something by wearing gardening gloves as he spoke: "Hey Basil, thanks for umm still chatting with me over 3-4 years of my Uhh…isolation I think….besides you know….you also care for Mari…"
Basil smiles warmly. "Of course, Sunny. It's been important to keep in touch. And about Mari, well, you're like family. We all care deeply about both of you."
And he shifted the subject "Besides, we can talk about Mari's health much later since you did already do your chores this morning so….Kel where to first?"
Kel grins, adjusting Sunny on his shoulder. "How about the park? It's been ages since we've seen it together, and maybe we'll meet some familiar faces there."
Sunny blushes and chuckles "Haha, Woah you two….it's nice you both are still…friends—" before he awkwardly adds "Anyways Kel why to carry me going there? I can probably handle walking a lot…"
Kel winks playfully. "Just giving you the VIP treatment for your grand return to the outside world, Sunny! Plus, it's kind of fun." He continues to carry Sunny toward the park, chatting about what's been happening in Faraway Town during Sunny's time away.
As Kel and Basil share stories, Sunny finds himself caught up in the nostalgia of their tales. The park comes into view, and he notices changes in the surroundings, both familiar and altered. Despite the whispers of 'something', he tries to stay present in the moment, relishing the connection with his friends.
Then, finally, they spot what for Sunny felt like enemies and fear due to being unaware of the Hooligans as Aubrey is huddled. In the middle of them. Until she angrily shouts "Trust me!!! Sunny would finally come out a bit despite you know—" As Kel shouted "Aubrey!!! We're here!!!!"
Sunny nervously smiled as Kel put him down. Awkwardly he felt her hug tightly around him as he froze. Processing how different in his dreams Aubrey looks like and act here before he blushes realizing how it reflects his perception of her as she lets go. As he awkwardly spoke "Uhh hehe, sorry? Umm….how are you Aubrey…and who are these other people?" Points at the Hooligans
Aubrey rolls her eyes, releasing Sunny from the hug. "These are my new friends, the Hooligans. We've been causing some chaos, you know, the usual." She introduces them, and one of the Hooligans grins, saying, "Hey, Sunny, long time no see! Heard you've been a hermit or something."
Sunny blushes, feeling a mix of embarrassment and nostalgia. Aubrey smirks, "Well, you're out now, so let's do something fun!"
He blinked "Wait—-" Basil spoke holding a photo album "Aubrey, relax Sunny has just recently come out so take it slow…"
Aubrey crosses her arms, looking somewhat disappointed but nods. "Fine, fine. We can take it slow." The Hooligans exchange glances, seemingly unsure about slowing down their usual pace.
Kel suggests, "How about we just hang out at the park for a bit? No chaos or pranks, just a chill time." Sunny looks at the group, pondering the idea. "Sure, the park sounds nice," he agrees, still adjusting to the presence of his friends after such a long time in isolation.
One of the hooligans. Kim fix her glasses to speak "Hey, fine fine basketball boy…..Yet what's in it for us? Since only Aubrey is close friends with you and the flower boy…"
Sunny scratches his head, thinking. "Well, how about I treat you all to some snacks? We can grab something at the park or a nearby store." He attempts to appeal to their interests, hoping for a peaceful outing.
Aubrey nods, adding, "Yeah, a little treat won't hurt, right? Plus, it's a chance for Sunny to reconnect with everyone." The Hooligans exchange glances, considering the offer. Basil whispers "Did you even bring money with you?"
Sunny sheepishly rubs the back of his head. "Umm, not really... But I can owe you all and pay you back later!" He grins, hoping his charm works even in the real world.
Aubrey sighs but smiles. "Fine, but this is a one-time deal. You owe us big, Sunny."
Kim, reluctantly, agrees. "Alright, let's get some snacks, but remember, you're paying back with interest."
With that, they all head towards the park, a mix of uncertainty and curiosity in the air.
Even Angel of the Hooligans got skeptical. Before Kel whispers to Sunny "Want me to help? I got money with me…."
Sunny hesitates for a moment, considering Kel's offer. He appreciates the gesture but doesn't want to burden his friend. "Thanks, Kel, but it's okay. I'll handle it," he whispers back, trying to convey reassurance. "Let's just enjoy the day together."
Kel smiles and drags Basil along to "Either way it's nice right? Despite unm….Aubrey changed a bit and new friends she still hasn't forgotten us, especially you and Mari!!!"
Sunny nods, trying to ignore the lingering unease he feels around the Hooligans. "Yeah, you're right," he says with a forced smile. "Let's focus on having a good time together."
He also ponders quietly still thinking about who are these 'hooligans' being Aubrey's new friends.