As the afternoon sun bathed them in a warm glow, Basil leaned in close to Aubrey, his voice barely above a whisper. The remnants of their lunch scattered around them, lending an air of casual intimacy to their conversation.
"Pssh...Aubrey," Basil began, a hint of mischief in his eyes. "Besides not teasing much. Do you agree with Kel's assumption earlier? I mean…Do you like 'Sunny' in that 'way' perhaps? Hopefully, that doesn't sound too much…"
Aubrey's gaze flickered, caught off guard by the question. She glanced around to ensure they weren't overheard before replying in a hushed tone, "I...I don't know, Basil. Sunny's always been there, you know? But feelings...they're complicated, especially with everything that's happened."
Their conversation hung in the air, the unspoken complexities of their relationships and emotions weaving a delicate tapestry amidst the backdrop of their shared history and uncertain future.
As she blushed fixing her hair and headband bow "Just..don't delve into it okay? Kel and Hero finally sighed with their agreement to prepare to go back home to take a bath from the sweating and tiredness everyone had. While Sunny was yawning cutely and rubbing his eyes groaning "This is the longest time I stayed awake today…..ugh…so tired…so much work…"
Kel chuckled, ruffling Sunny's hair affectionately. "You did great today, Sunny. We all did. But yeah, time for some well-deserved relaxation."
Hero nodded in agreement, stretching his arms. "Definitely. It's been a productive day. We'll continue with the treehouse project tomorrow. Rest up, everyone."
Aubrey, still blushing slightly, added with a smile, "And no more teasing about crushes or feelings for now, alright? Let's just enjoy the evening."
With nods of assent and a few playful protests from Kel, the group gathered their things and headed back home, the warmth of the day lingering in their memories as they looked forward to another day together.
Meanwhile, Basil told the rest "Goodbye everyone!!! Yet this time I shall sleep at Sunny's house today as I already informed my family (parents and grandma) and babysitter that I plan not to just rest alone in my own house.." As Sunny tiredly nodded and spoke, "Sure Basil…yet any other reason why?"
Basil grinned mischievously. "Well, besides wanting to spend more time with you guys, I thought it would be fun to have a mini late-night brainstorming session for our treehouse project. Plus, I heard your mom makes amazing midnight snacks!"
Sunny's eyes brightened at the mention of his mom's snacks. "Oh yeah, she does! Alright, it's a plan then. Let's make it a productive and cozy night."
With smiles exchanged, they set off for Sunny's house, looking forward to a night filled with friendship, creativity, and good food.
Hero then spoke patting Basil "Sure thing Basil, take care of you both and lend Sunny everyone's contact so we can catch up still via phone. Along with well.." As Kel asks happily "Wonder when Sunny's parents had time to visit far away despite extra busy supporting Mari especially soon…"
Hero nodded in agreement. "Yeah, staying connected is important. And about Sunny's parents visiting, maybe they found a way to manage their schedules for a short trip. They're probably just as eager to see us all together again."
Sunny, still yawning, added, "They did mention they wanted to check on some relatives in Faraway too, so it all worked out timing-wise."
With plans set and anticipation for a fun night ahead, they made their way to Sunny's house, ready for a mix of work and relaxation in each other's company.
Basil and Aubrey gasp quietly and chuckle as she lightly punches Sunny's arm. Saying with a smile "See you tomorrow okay Sunny? Take care of yourself despite Basil would stay with you tonight…"
Basil and Aubrey's light-hearted teasing brought a smile to Sunny's tired face. "Of course, see you all tomorrow!" he replied, grateful for their friendship and looking forward to a night of camaraderie and shared memories with Basil.
As they left, Sunny gasped when Kel carried him bridal style as Kel spoke "Yet you seem having a hard time staying awake so another VIP treatment!!!" As Hero was surprised and whispered to Basil "So Kel carried Sunny a lot huh before I came along yesterday?"
Kel's playful gesture caught Sunny off guard, but he chuckled, grateful for Kel's care. Meanwhile, Hero's observation made Basil smile knowingly. "Yeah, seems like Kel's taking his secondary big brother role seriously," Basil whispered back.
As Basil added, "So Hero, how do you feel when Kel is the middle child ever since your new family member[1] is born?"
Hero smiled warmly. "It's been an adjustment, but I'm happy for Kel. He's such a caring brother, and having Sally around brings a lot of joy to all of us," he replied, glancing at Kel and Sunny sharing a playful moment.
As he added "Plus, it's nice that my influence being the sole big brother at first made Kel also understand the hardships which were worth it by the way nice.." Then they felt a nudge by a yawning huff Aubrey for she spoke "Are we all going back him except Basil or what?"
Kel grinned, carrying Sunny a bit longer. "Yeah, let's head back. I think Sunny here needs a good rest," he said, nodding in agreement with Aubrey.
Then, they all got in awe when Sunny nuzzled near Kel fast asleep a nap. Kel blushed and sweated a bit (luckily he already wore his orange basketball shirt again compared to earlier when he took it off like a cape)
Hero chuckles softly at Kel's reaction, patting his shoulder lightly. Aubrey giggles and whispers to Basil, "Looks like Sunny found a comfy spot. Should we leave them alone for a bit?"
Basil nods, smiling. "Yeah, let's give them some peace. We can catch up on things at home."
They quietly gather their things and leave Sunny and Kel for their nap, heading back home together for some rest after a busy day.
Kel frowns "Wait I thought Basil stays and me and the rest go home—" They wink as they all smile. As the scene fades.
Omori blinks a few times, trying to shake off the remnants of his dream. He looks around the white space, noticing Mewo's purring and realizing it's time to continue his adventure with his dreamworld friends. With a determined expression, he stands up and stretches, ready to face whatever challenges await him next. Gathering his courage, Omori takes a deep breath and steps forward, preparing for the next chapter of his journey.
Mewo meows as it translates saying (Rest well a bit Omori) as Omori nods. As he opened the white door near white space he got confused as to why only Dreamworld Basil and Dreamworld Mari were at their colorful main hub (hangout spot that is the tree stump if it's exterior compared to interior) "Uhh….Hi you two wait, where are Kel, Aubrey, and Hero? I thought we were supposed to visit the otherworld last time right?"
Dreamworld Basil smiles warmly, adjusting his glasses as he responds, "Hey Omori! Kel, Aubrey, and Hero went ahead to prepare for our adventure. They wanted to make sure everything was set before we joined them. So, it's just you, me, and Mari for now. How about we catch up while we wait?"
Dreamworld Mari nods in agreement, her cheerful demeanor brightening the space. "Yeah, Omori! Let's chat about our latest adventures and plans for the upcoming journey. I heard Kel has some exciting ideas for our next destination!"
Omori relaxes, feeling at ease in their company. "Sure, let's catch up. I can't wait to hear about Kel's ideas. It sounds like it's going to be an amazing adventure!"
He glanced at the flickering something and stranger a bit before properly sitting down. Listening to what the two would share dreamworld Kel's ideas come into.
Dreamworld Basil adjusts his floral hat and drapes his pastel-colored cloak over his simple shirt. "Kel's idea is to explore a realm filled with ancient ruins and mystical creatures," he says with enthusiasm. "He thinks we'll uncover some hidden secrets and artifacts that could help us in our quests."
Dreamworld Mari chimes in, "Yes, and Hero suggested we focus on helping inhabitants in need during our journey. It could earn us valuable allies and resources. I think it's a great plan!"
Omori nods, intrigued by the possibilities. "That sounds fantastic! I'm looking forward to seeing what we'll discover and who we'll meet along the way. It's always an adventure with all of you."
As they discuss their plans, Omori's mind briefly drifts to the flickering he noticed earlier and the stranger, but he pushes those thoughts aside, choosing to focus on the excitement of their upcoming adventure instead.
As Basil lent the photo album "Plus, we didn't forget about you Omori!!! Yet we heard from the crew of space boyfriend that he is currently in a sad mood so we can't know what happened between him and Sweetheart until we get some good music to play for his room…."
Dreamworld Basil hands over the photo album. "We didn't forget about you, Omori!" he exclaims. "But we heard from Space Boyfriend's crew that he's feeling down. We need to find some good music to lift his spirits and see what happened between him and Sweetheart."
Dreamworld Mari nods in agreement. "Yes, music has a way of healing and bringing people together. Once Space Boyfriend feels better, we can continue our adventures with him."
Omori smiles gratefully at his friends. "Thank you, everyone. I'm sure we'll find the perfect music to cheer up Space Boyfriend. Until then, let's focus on our journey and make the most of our time together."
Then, he blushed a bit as he started worrying out of dreamworld Hero, Kel, and Aubrey he muttered with his stoic face "So Uhh….why did you both stay behind? And umm…How's Aubrey?"
Dreamworld Basil chuckles softly. "Oh, we just thought it would be nice to spend some time with you here in our hangout hub, Omori. As for Aubrey, she's doing well. Kel and Hero are with her, so she's in good company."
Dreamworld Mari adds, "They're probably off doing something fun or helping each other out. You know how they are, always looking out for each other."
Omori nods, feeling reassured. "That's good to hear. I'm glad they're all okay. It's nice to have friends who care about each other so much."
Basil smiles warmly. "Indeed, Omori. Now, let's focus on making more happy memories here in our dreamworld. Who knows what adventures await us next?"
Mari smirks and crawls close as Omori is like an innocent little brother headtilts "Why are you so close sis?" As Mari chuckles "Nothing, I just why are you suddenly blushing little brother? Especially asking how specifically 'Aubrey' is doing despite us already at least being informed they are in search of other adventures when with space boyfriend on pause?"
Mari's teasing draws a deeper blush from Omori, who tries to play it off with a sheepish smile. "I-I was just curious, that's all. Aubrey is a good friend, and I want to make sure she's happy, you know?"
Mari chuckles at his response. "Sure, sure, little brother. It's sweet of you to care. Just don't get too flustered. We're all here to have fun and enjoy our time together in this dreamworld, right?"
Omori nods, feeling a mix of embarrassment and amusement at his sister's playful teasing. "Right, right. Let's make the most of our time here."
Basil snaps a new picture quietly before he nnudgesOmori "So since it's just the three of us. Maybe we had our party of three? Then, we can try looking for them?"
Basil's suggestion sparks curiosity in Omori's eyes as he nods eagerly. "That sounds like a great idea! A party of three adventures sounds fun. Let's explore and see what adventures await us. Maybe we'll stumble upon them along the way."
Mari grins and nods in agreement. "Count me in! I'm always up for an adventure with my two favorite brothers."
With renewed excitement, the three of them set off on their little journey within the dreamworld, eager to discover new places and maybe reunite with their friends along the way.
Omori blinks confused "Mari…" As Basil chuckles "Lately she wants to treat me like a little brother despite your her related actual little bro Omori…" As Omori turns "Really Mari? Why or when did you want to treat Basil like that?"
Mari chuckles playfully. "Well, Basil is like a little brother I never had in this dream world, so I thought, why not embrace that dynamic? Plus, it's fun to see him blush and act all flustered sometimes."
She continues as she turns to Dreamworld Basil. "Basil, you're like the little brother I never had in this dream world. It's refreshing to have someone to tease and take care of in a sibling-like way."
Basil blushes lightly at Mari's words but laughs it off. "I don't mind being the little brother in this scenario. It's all in good fun, and it's nice to have this dynamic with you."
Omori, observing their interaction, smiles. "I've always been the little brother in real life, so it's interesting to see Basil taking on that role here. But hey, we're all like family in this dreamworld, right?"
Their bond as a makeshift family in the dreamworld adds a layer of warmth and companionship to their adventures, creating a sense of belonging and closeness despite the whimsical nature of their surroundings.
They pause and get confused as even Omori scratches his head "Sorry that's sound 'off' right?
What I meant was, Mari has always been like a big sister to me, and it's natural for her to have that caring, sisterly vibe with my friends too."
Mari nods in agreement. "Exactly. We're all like family here, looking out for each other and having fun together."
Basil smiles. "It's nice to have such a supportive and close-knit group, even if our roles might shift a bit in this dreamworld."
Their clarification brings a sense of understanding and camaraderie, reinforcing the bond they share as friends and siblings in their dreamworld adventures.
Omori stands up and gestures towards the colorful stairway leading out from their Tree Stump hangout hub, which is designed to resemble a bushy treehouse on the exterior. "So, what are we waiting for? Let's prepare to leave and embark on our next adventure."
Basil nods in agreement, adjusting his floral hat and cloak. "Indeed, it's time for some new experiences and discoveries."
Mari smiles and follows suit, ready for the journey ahead. "Let's go and see what awaits us out there!"
Together, they head towards the colorful stairway, eager to explore and enjoy their dreamworld escapades.
The scene transitions as Mari's piano-patterned skirt sways gently, adding a touch of whimsy to their departure from the hangout hub. Omori's smile returns, a subtle warmth overtaking his stoic demeanor.
As they step outside, they're greeted by Kel, who is energetically playing with a beach ball and calling out to them. "Hey guys! Omori's back!" Kel shouts, his enthusiasm palpable. "Basil and Mari already know, right? They can fill you in on what we've been up to, along with Hero and Aubrey."
The group gathers around Kel, ready to catch up on the latest Dreamworld adventures and reconnect with their friends.
Omori nods in agreement and replies, "Yeah, they filled me in on the details. But why are you back so soon without the other two, Kel? By the way, I liked the ideas that Mari and Basil mentioned you had."
Kel chuckles a bit of a thanks and energetic arm flex before explaining why he returned so early compared to the two and where they are now.
Kel chuckles and flexes his arm energetically in response to Omori's compliment before explaining, "Oh, thanks! Well, Aubrey and Hero wanted to check out this new café that just opened, and I decided to tag along for some snacks and fun. They should be back soon, though."
Omori asks, "A cafe around here? Hmm... I'm not sure I follow." Since he probably doesn't recognize anywhere in the headspace that resembles a cafe for them to visit.
Mari and Basil also looked confused before Kel explained where in the dreamworld spots it was. They listened intently as Kel described the location, trying to visualize it in their minds.
Kel continues, spinning his beachball by his finger as he explains, "It's a cozy little spot near the riverbank, surrounded by tall trees and colorful flowers. The tables are set under umbrellas, and there's soft music playing in the background. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon chat or a quick bite to eat."
Basil and Mari chuckle "Kel!!" Kel tturnsto them "What?l" As Omori Pat Kel's shoulder "that isn't some cafe it's RAIN town…hidden somewhere Wait…you rode the train without me, Mari and Basil how? Did you get a travel pass?"
As Kel scratches his head, he laughs nervously. "Oh, right! Rain Town! Got a bit carried away with the beachball excitement, I guess. And about the train, well, I...uh...borrowed Hero's special travel pass. He said I could use it today!"
Mari gasped "How long does he have a special travel pass and didn't tell us about our previous adventures?"
Kel shrugs sheepishly. "I think he just got it recently, or maybe he's had it for a while and forgot to mention it. Either way, it's handy for our adventures!"
Basil sighs "Well Kel thanks to You Omori—" Then they notice a subtle change in Omori's expression usually neutral. He makes it not a small smile nor a manic smile/happy state. He gave the cutest smile ever that is so sweet despite his lifeless eyes.
Omori then asks "Why are you all so quiet?"
Basil grins warmly and Mari's eyes soften as she responds, "Omori, you just looked genuinely happy for a moment there. It's nice to see you smile like that." Kel adds with a chuckle, "Yeah, usually you're all serious and focused. That smile suits you, buddy!"
Omori blinks and touches his cheek "Re-really?" His eyes dilate for a moment before being calm "I just smile like what? Like genuinely? Yet haven't I smiled before during our emotion system against certain enemies in our adventures? How is this different?"
Mari nods, explaining, "It's different because this smile feels more natural like it's coming from within you rather than being forced by external factors. It's like a genuine expression of happiness, not just a response to a situation."
Then, Kel nudges "Look!!! Basil was able to capture your rare adorable smile moment Omori with his camera.." As Omori for the first time fiddles his hands and asks "Could I….I..s-see it?"
Basil eagerly shows Omori the picture, saying, "Of course! Here it is." He hands over the camera or device displaying the captured moment of Omori's genuine smile.
He was shocked despite back to his stoic expression "Mari, look….I smiled…outside an adventure or battle…is that a good thing? Do you like it?"
Mari smiles warmly and nods, saying, "It's a great thing, Omori! Your smile is wonderful, and I like seeing you happy like this. It's a sign that you're enjoying our time together, not just when we're in the middle of an adventure." She then pats his shoulder gently.
He leans like a pampered little brother as he hugs her "It feels weird seeing me like that photo…That won't creep out Hero and Aubrey for this surprise once Basil shares that image with them when we finally get to see them again right?"
Mari chuckles and pats Omori's back, reassuringly saying, "No, I don't think it'll creep them out at all. They'll probably be happy to see you smile like that. It's a special moment, capturing a different side of you outside of our usual adventures."
Basil then pasted the recent photo in his photo album and Pat Omori's head snuggling to Mari's shoulder "Besides Kel and me also liked it. Who knows how that would change during our breaks away from adventures…don't you like it, Omori?"
Omori nods slightly, feeling a mix of emotions at the photo. "Yeah, I guess I do like it," he admits softly, his gaze drifting to the image in the album. "It's nice to see a different side of myself, even if it's just in a photo."
He blushed a bit crying a bit even if that surprised them Again. It wasn't sadness it's a rare emotional expression that only Dreamworld Mari understood as she whispered to Omori "It's okay… You're not sad Omori….are these tears of joy?"
Mari's gentle reassurance brings a sense of comfort to Omori. He nods, managing a small smile through his tears. "Yeah, I think they are tears of joy," he admits, feeling a warmth in his chest at the understanding in Mari's words.
As Kel spoke "Woah I wonder what got Omori so emotional outside an Adventure? It is cool seeing him like that though…"
Basil, impressed by Omori's emotional expression, adds his perspective. "It's like seeing a new side of Omori, isn't it? I think it's a beautiful moment captured. It shows that even in our dreamworld adventures, we can experience genuine emotions beyond battles and challenges."
Omori wipes his tears and stands up chuckling before having the lifeless expression he usually has and gestures with his other dreamworld companions "Come on, let's visit Aubrey and Hero where they are taking a break at…"
He pauses, to take a breather to stop his mumbling
Omori's mood shifts, and he takes charge of the moment, ready to continue their dreamworld adventures. "Let's go see Aubrey and Hero," he suggests, leading the way with renewed energy.
[1] (Sally Corazon - little baby sister )