Cherreads

Chapter 52 - File AN : "Aiming Notes"

As the parents bid goodnight and the dinner comes to an end, the group gathers around Basil, who carefully places the recent group photo in his cherished photo album. The warmth of the evening lingers as they exchange final words before parting ways for the night. Basil's photo album holds more than just pictures; it's a treasure trove of memories, capturing moments of laughter, bonding, and shared experiences that they hold dear.

As they smiled, Sunny weakly knelt down, and Aubrey and Kel caught him with their arms, speaking together, "You're still tired, Sunny. No regrets staying awake most of the day?" Their concern was evident in their voices. Basil scooted close after fixing his own bag, examining Sunny's forehead, and checking his breathing. Meanwhile, Hero checked Sunny's pulse just in case he fainted again. Sunny weakly nodded, signaling his response to Kel and Aubrey's united query, assuring them that he was okay despite his weariness.

As Aubrey and Kel worked together to carry Sunny shoulder to shoulder, Basil and Hero observed his condition closely. Basil noted that Sunny's body seemed fatigued, evident from his pale complexion and shallow breathing. Hero, on the other hand, noticed a slight tremor in Sunny's hands, indicating some level of exhaustion or strain. Despite this, Sunny remained conscious, albeit weak, as they carefully supported him toward a more comfortable spot to rest.

As Hero whispers "Hey Sunny you don't mind having a sleepover here not at your house? Or you prefer to sleep back at your house by yourself?"

Sunny responded weakly, his voice carrying a hint of exhaustion, "I-I think I'll be okay back at my place...alone. Just need some rest." He gave a faint smile, trying to reassure them despite his weariness.

Then , he blush when he felt this time both Kel and Aubrey were carrying him like he is supported.

Aubrey carried his legs while Kel his arms as Basil help by opening the door of the Corazon house while Hero sighs "Okay , we can plan another time for a sleepover…Rest well our 'Sunshine'…"

As they settled Sunny back at his place with a soft sigh of relief, Aubrey and Kel exchanged a glance, a silent acknowledgment of their shared concern. Kel gave Sunny's arm a pat before they left, whispering, "Sleep tight, Sunny."

Once back in the Corazon household, Aubrey remarked softly to the group, "Let's make sure to check on him tomorrow morning."

Basil nodded in agreement, already thinking of ways to help Sunny feel more comfortable and supported during these challenging times.

As Hero yawns "speaking of rest , Aubrey and Basil would you like to sleepover here or return to your own homes?"

As Kel glance at the full moon from the window "Again , if one of you are scared of the dark I can accompany you…"

Aubrey smiled gratefully, "I think I'll head home tonight, but thanks for the offer, Kel."

Basil, considering the late hour and his concern for Sunny, replied, "I'll stay here tonight. It might be good to keep an eye on things."

Kel grinned, "Awesome! Sleepover at the Corazons' it is then. I'll set up the blankets and pillows for you, Basil."

He nods, "Thanks Kel.."

As Hero smiles, patting his shoulder,r "It's nice you like to stay over tonight Basil.."

As Basil bashfully fix his floral hairclip "aww , you both are too kind. Besides , I don't want to burden my Babysitter Ms.Polly with the matter fact most of the time I am by myself in the house.."

As Kel and Hero look at each-other with a nod to silently agree even Basil has his own struggles for over 4 years or more with his situational backround.

Meanwhile , Sunny exhales a bit despite shuddering as he wrap himself in his blanket and glance at the other side of this bedroom he is in of his house of a comatose Mari.

Despite seeing something of sort of a singular eye gazing at him and whispers he doesn't deserve this he brush it off thinking "Pretty sure you want me to keep 'moving forward' right Mari?"

As Sunny settles into bed, he closes his eyes, trying to calm his racing thoughts. The room feels heavy with the weight of unspoken words and unresolved emotions. Despite his efforts to push aside the haunting whispers, they linger in the corners of his mind, a constant reminder of his inner turmoil.

In the quiet of the night, with only the soft hum of the air conditioning unit breaking the silence, Sunny drifts into an uneasy sleep, his mind haunted by memories and uncertainties, unsure of what the future holds for him and his friends.

Then, he tries humming again to himself like the moment he did to calm himself 7 days ago at night when he is still cooped up in his home.

The melody he hums is what he recalled as 'Mari's Lullaby' to him. It's a vague memory when she started humming it to him. Yet he strongly recalled its whenever he feels scared and unable to sleep.

As Sunny hums "Mari's Lullaby," the familiar melody wraps around him like a comforting embrace, a reminder of the bond he shares with his sister. The soft notes soothe his restless mind, easing the tension that had been building throughout the day.

In the dim light of his room, memories of Mari flood his thoughts—her gentle smile, the warmth of her presence, and the way she would hum this lullaby to him during difficult times. It's a bittersweet melody, carrying both nostalgia and hope for better days ahead.

With each note, Sunny finds a sense of peace, a fleeting moment of respite from the weight of his guilt and worries. The lullaby becomes his anchor, grounding him in the present while holding onto the memories of the past.

As the last echoes of the melody fade into the night, Sunny closes his eyes, feeling a sense of calm wash over him. Tomorrow may bring new challenges, but for now, he finds solace in the simple act of humming a melody that connects him to his sister and the love they share.

Frankly , before Omori wakes up in white space another Memory kicks in with an odd tone of his familiar older sister saying "Come on!!! Let's start our practice Sun—" it cuts off as he instantly gasp awake.

Conflicted and confused without memories of the waking world yet he is aware this is the second time he had a surreal memory. Then the memories of his previous adventure left him speechless as he ponders "Ughh…my head…" gasp and he turn cautiously assume something was watching him eerily as it fades it presence for he facepalm "Curse it…why are these 'strange' things happening to me and in this headspace?"

As the black kitten meows and nuzzles against Omori, he finds a moment of comfort amidst the confusion and unease. The gentle touch of the kitten's fur against his skin brings a sense of warmth and familiarity, grounding him in the present moment.

Omori's mind races with questions and uncertainties about the strange memories and experiences he's been having. The abrupt cut-off of the memory of his older sister practicing with him leaves him unsettled, unable to grasp the full context of these surreal moments.

He takes a deep breath, trying to calm his racing thoughts. The presence of the black kitten, Mewo, soothes his nerves, reminding him of the companionship and support he has in this strange world of white space.

With a soft sigh, Omori pets Mewo gently, appreciating the silent understanding between them. Despite the mysteries and challenges ahead, he finds a moment of solace in the company of his feline friend, knowing that together, they'll navigate through whatever strange occurrences come their way.

As he carried Mewo lazily lying down on white space muttering "Guess time to update my diary huh?"

Omori settles down with Mewo by his side, feeling a sense of routine and familiarity as he reaches for his laptop to update his diary. The soft clicking of keys echoes in the otherwise quiet white space as he begins to document his thoughts and experiences.

His diary serves as a record of his journey, a way to make sense of the surreal moments and memories that often flood his mind. As he types, memories of his previous adventures flicker in his mind, intertwined with the present uncertainty.

With each word typed, Omori feels a sense of catharsis, as if releasing the weight of his thoughts onto the digital pages. Mewo purrs softly, a comforting presence that eases his mind as he delves into the task of documenting his experiences.

Despite the strangeness of his surroundings and the mysteries that surround him, Omori finds solace in the act of writing, a way to organize his thoughts and make sense of the tangled threads of his memories.

Then he is confuse why there a new sort of app in his laptop screen after writing his diary . Carefully clicks further he shudders. The sudden appearance of a crossword puzzle on Omori's laptop screen adds a new layer of mystery to his already perplexing situation. As he examines the puzzle, he notices that some boxes are already filled out with the letters K-O-N, hinting at a word or phrase.

The vertical line crossing over the O-filled box and the upper empty box, with two empty boxes below, intrigues him further. It's as if the puzzle is forming a drawing or pattern that he didn't create himself.

Omori's mind races with possibilities as he recalls collecting the keyboard piece letters K, O, and N in his adventures. Could this puzzle be related to his past experiences? Is it a clue or a message left for him to decipher?

Curiosity mixed with a touch of apprehension fills Omori as he contemplates whether to delve deeper into this mysterious crossword puzzle or leave it be. The puzzle's enigmatic nature adds another layer to his already complex journey in the white space.

Then , he still shudder how his adventure ended abruptly , afterwards he turn off his laptop and stood up holding his knife with him as he turn to Mewo "wait…how did you return to white space when your in (Dreamworld) Mari's picnic basket at the time?"

As he stands there, knife in hand, Omori's mind races with questions about the nature of Dreamworld and the white space. He wonders if there are unseen threads linking these seemingly separate dimensions, or if there are other forces at play that allow for such transitions.

With a mix of curiosity and caution, Omori decides to keep a watchful eye on Mewo, wary of any further unexpected occurrences or revelations. The mysteries surrounding his adventures and the creatures within them continue to unfold, leaving him with more questions than answers.

Then he smile softly when Mewo meows and jumps over his shoulder as he pets it saying "Shall we go back and meet my friends?"

With a nod to affirm his decision, he and Mewo prepare to return to the company of his friends, knowing that they will navigate whatever mysteries and challenges await them together.

As Omori and Mewo approached the white door, they could feel the eerie presence of the red hands lingering in the corners of white space. Ignoring them, Omori focused on opening the door, his determination unwavering despite the unsettling atmosphere. With a steady hand, he turned the doorknob and pushed the door open, revealing the familiar transition into the dreamworld where his friends awaited. Mewo hopped off his shoulder, ready to accompany him on their next journey together.

As he close the white door behind , it seems only Dreamworld Basil and Dreamworld Mari are there as he calmly ask "wait , where is everyone else you two?"

Dreamworld Basil glanced at Dreamworld Mari, a hint of concern in his eyes as he answered, "They're exploring further ahead. [Sunny], are you feeling alright? You look a bit shaken." Dreamworld Mari nodded in agreement, her expression mirroring Basil's concern.

Then , it distorts for a moment when Omori felt uneasy as it they repeat the same lines but address him as 'Omori' that makes him sigh in relief as Dreamworld Mari hugs Omori to sense his unease 

Dreamworld Basil reassured him, "It's alright, Omori. We're here for you. Let's take a moment to gather ourselves before continuing." They paused, allowing Omori to regain his composure and steady his thoughts.

Omori mutters "I am not going insane right? The last thing I remember we were..at Sweetheart's castle and..what happened?"

As Dreamworld Mari hush and headpat Omori saying "All me and Basil remembered we finally found him just suddenly lost as our friend takes us back here to rest…"

Dreamworld Basil nods mutters "It's odd how a mysterious shadow drag me away from you guys after dealing with sweetheart yet it's….Nice how you and Mari manage to find me…."

Dreamworld Mari nodded in agreement, her expression reflecting concern. "It was quite the ordeal, but we're glad we found you, Omori. Let's try to piece together what happened step by step." Dreamworld Basil added, "We should focus on recovering our memories and figuring out how we ended up here. Something feels off about the way we got separated." They sat down together, ready to delve into the mystery surrounding their recent experiences.

He nods, as Mewo purrs with Dreamworld Mari that the other two smiled.

In their head in unison they thought (Still bizarre how you still can't tell us Omori why or how 'Mewo' is your most familiar companion despite we only met this little friend from you in our previous adventure you brought with you…)

Dreamworld Mari and Dreamworld Basil exchanged puzzled glances before turning their attention back to Omori, waiting for an explanation regarding Mewo's mysterious presence. Dreamworld Basil spoke up, "It's intriguing how Mewo seems connected to your experiences, Omori. Perhaps there's a deeper connection we haven't uncovered yet." Dreamworld Mari added, "If there's anything you remember or any clues you've gathered, sharing them could help us piece together this puzzle."

Omori stood up petting Mewo hiding his conflict "Uhh…To be honest I don't know , I just know Mewo's been with me for unknown length of time…"

He felt his heart race before Dreamworld Basil Pat his shoulder "okay , how about we look for the others okay?"

As Dreamworld Mari Carried Mewo to her picnic basket with a nod saying "It's okay little brother no pressure , if you want another adventure in mind we should look for the others with you~" with a tone of comfort.

Omori nodded, grateful for Dreamworld Basil and Dreamworld Mari's understanding. "Yeah, let's find the others. Maybe along the way, we'll uncover more about Mewo's connection to all this." With a newfound determination, he followed their lead, ready to embark on another adventure in the dream world.

Mewo meows confuse that only Omori can understand saying (connection? Omori you seems awfully skeptical today) as Omori had a hand shrug signaling he doesn't understand why he is acting this way either.

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Mewo's confusion was understandable as Omori himself grappled with his uncertain feelings and thoughts. It was indeed a strange day, one filled with mysteries and questions that begged for answers. As they ventured forth in search of their friends, Omori couldn't shake off the nagging feeling that something significant was about to unfold, something that might shed light on Mewo's presence and his unease.

Later , Dreamworld Basil points "Ohh!!!! It looks like our friends are playing within this playground (location : Forest Playground , Southern part of Vast Forest).."

As it was Dreamworld Kel , Dreamworld Aubrey and Dreamworld Hero playing with other inhabitants like Berly , Van , Neb , Sharleen and Mikal.

Which oddly even Omori felt familiar and he doesn't understand why his heart feels warm.

*It was a curious feeling, like a distant memory trying to resurface in Omori's mind. As he watched his Dreamworld friends interact with others, a sense of nostalgia swept over him. Perhaps it was the familiarity of the scene or the warmth of their camaraderie that stirred something deep within him. Despite his confusion, Omori couldn't deny the comfort he felt in their presence, almost as if these connections were etched in his soul.*

Then , Dreamworld Mari whistles to their attention as it was Dreamworld Hero waving first and calls out "Oh Hey Mari!!!! Basil and even Omori!!! Want to join us with the others? They really have many games planned with us this time than just hide and seek like before….."

Dreamworld Mari smiles warmly, nodding in agreement. "Of course! We'd love to join in," she responds, glancing at Omori to gauge his reaction. Dreamworld Basil gives a reassuring pat on Omori's back, encouraging him silently to join the fun. Feeling a mixture of uncertainty and curiosity, Omori takes a step forward, his heart strangely lightened by the prospect of spending time with his friends in this playful setting.

As Mewo pop its head of a black kitten of Dreamworld Mari's picnic basket.

Dreamworld Kel beams "Ahh looks like Mewo is still joining us eh Omori?"

Dreamworld Mari chuckles, gently petting Mewo as it peeks out. "Seems like Mewo enjoys the company," she remarks, glancing at Omori with a warm smile. "Ready for some fun, Omori?" Dreamworld Basil adds, a playful glint in his eyes, eager to see Omori relax and enjoy the moment.

Omori nods , before he turn to glance at Dreamworks Aubrey and for some instinctual reason, he caught her off guard when she says "Oh Omori these games would be fun with—you?!!" As he tackled an embrace onto her, his ears turning pink as he snuggle close as she blushed asking "Uhh Omori? You okay? I kn-kn-know you don't mind me admiring you so much all the time yet Uhh—"

Omori blushes slightly, feeling a mix of emotions. "Sorry, Aubrey," he murmurs, loosening his grip but still keeping her close. "I just felt like hugging you, you know? It's nice to be with everyone again, playing games and having fun." He smiles, hoping his gesture didn't make things awkward between them.

Then continue how Aubrey responds when Dreamworld Kel teases "Hoho what a new turn of events , it seems Omori is more open showing appreciation for Aubrey's admiration today!!!!"

Aubrey chuckles, her cheeks still tinted with a faint blush. "Well, it's a pleasant surprise," she admits with a playful grin. "I'm glad Omori feels comfortable expressing himself like this. It's nice to have these moments together, especially after everything we've been through." She glances at Omori, her eyes softening with genuine warmth. "Right, Omori?"

He nodded, letting go despite his stoic face. He has pinkish ears still faintly there as he muttered shyly, "I Uhh…" fiddles with hands "I think I am starting to get why you admire me so much....Aubrey…is it okay..if I am having butterflies with you? You did say besides Mari and Hero being an example of a good relationship back at Sweetheart's—our previous adventure was a good example…too" hesitant gaze.

Aubrey's expression softens even more, her eyes reflecting understanding and empathy. "Of course, Omori," she replies gently. "It's perfectly okay to feel that way. We've been through a lot together, and it's natural for feelings to develop. And remember, it's not just about examples from our adventures. What matters most is how we feel and how we choose to navigate those feelings." She offers him a reassuring smile. "Take your time with it, Omori. We're here for each other, no matter what."

Then , Dreamworld Hero and Dreamworld Mari tease "ohh? Aubrey sounding like a mature one?"

As Dreamworld Aubrey huffs saying defensively "No no what I mean it's okay for Omori to also reciprocate my admiration and lately it's odd yet..also nice he doesn't mind it…" smiles at Omori

Dreamworld Hero grins playfully, "Oh, mature Aubrey in action!"

Dreamworld Mari chuckles, "Looks like we're all growing up, huh?"

Dreamworld Aubrey nods, her smile warm and genuine. "Exactly. We're all growing and changing, and that's part of the adventure too."

Omori blushes a bit but smiles, feeling a sense of warmth and acceptance among his sister & friends.

Dreamworld Kel and Basil smiles smugly as Dreamworld Basil finished snapping the photo of that rare moment Omori hugs someone—especially which was Dreamworld Aubrey.

Dreamworld Kel grins mischievously, "We've got to treasure this moment, guys! Omori, showing his soft side!"

Dreamworld Basil nods, satisfied with the photo. "Definitely a rare sight. But a heartwarming one."

Omori, still blushing, chuckles softly. "Guess I surprised even myself today."

As Dreamworld Mari chuckles saying "Oh my everyone , remember he is acting like this lately ever since he suggest me and Basil join your adventure guys!!!"

As Dreamworld Kel and Dreamworld Aubrey happily say in unison "Yes!!!!! It was fun having you both sometimes be part of the main party (4 party system) or just support us!!! (Side party if 2 are left out yet still part of their line up)…."

Dreamworld Hero joins in, grinning broadly. "You guys definitely add an interesting dynamic to our adventures. And Omori, you're becoming quite the party member, huh?"

Dreamworld Mari nods in agreement. "It's nice to have everyone together, even if we switch up roles now and then. Keeps things fresh!"

Omori nods as Berly fix her glasses and sharp-teeth uttering "ahem!!! Enough softie-reunions whatever…please give context to the current game your playing with us with Omori , Basil and Mari…."

Berly's demand adds a touch of seriousness to the moment. Dreamworld Kel clears his throat and takes charge. "Right, so we're playing a combination of tag and scavenger hunt today. Each team has to find specific items scattered around the forest while avoiding getting tagged by the 'monsters,' which are us, Dreamworld Kel, Dreamworld Aubrey, and Dreamworld Hero. If we tag you, you join us in tagging others. First team to collect all the items and reach the finish line wins!"

Dreamworld Mari adds with a mischievous grin, "And no flying ahead or teleporting this time, Omori! You've got to play fair with us."

Omori and Dreamworld Basil laughs.

As one of the other inhabitants the blue-cyan monkey with yellow fluffy hair spoke (which is Mikal) "Hey!!!! That doesn't even make sense!!!! Omori can't fly hahaha also hi!!!"

Mikal's comment adds a lighthearted touch to the conversation, making everyone chuckle. Dreamworld Hero pats Mikal's shoulder with a grin. "Mikal's got a point there, Omori. No shortcuts this time!"

Omori nods playfully. "Alright, alright, fair enough. No flying or teleporting. Let's make it a real challenge!"

He has the sweetest smile too compare to his manic face. Which were dreamworld friends are familiar with, except other dreamworld inhabitants, when Van spoke, "Wait Berly, isn't it odd Omori's smile is not.."

Berly leans over and whispers, "not scary?" He nods slowly

She added with a smirk, "Yes, Van. Quite a rare sight, isn't it? We might need to document this momentous occasion!"

Omori then makes them scared when he turns to his slightly angry gaze despite his relax demeanor ,

While he had a calm expression that has a bubbly aura when his dreamworld Friends utter "come on now , let's prepare for the game!!!"

As Dreamworld Mari spoke "wait Berly , how is this game gonna work? Is there somesort of catch of like a winner and loser?"

Berly responds with enthusiasm, outlining the game's objectives and any twists or challenges involved. She cried out, "Alright, everyone! The game is simple yet thrilling. We're going to have a series of challenges spread across the forest. Each challenge completed earns your team points. The team with the most points at the end wins bragging rights and a special prize!"

They say in awe, "ohh.." in perfect unison for the group.....

As Dreamworld Basil spoke with a head tilt (while not tipping his floral hat), "So, Kel, is this what Berly and the other in the playground agree on, how the rules work for this mix of tag and scavenger hunt in the game?"

Dreamworld Kel could confirm the rules and add some excitement to the discussion. He might say, "Yep, that's the gist of it! Berly and the gang brainstormed this game to keep us on our toes. We'll have to be quick and smart to score those points. Are you all ready for the challenge?"

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