11 Chapter 11

“Yeah Rin, that’s cool and all but I’m tired, like really tired. It feels like all my mana was drained.”

“Okay, okay fine. I wanna look around this room first, it looks ancient.”

“Wha.. you’re a history buff Rin! Who would know.”

“Oh shut up Ko, for your information I exceeded in this type of thing back when I was in school.”

“Sure you did, at least you had hobbies.”

As they prepared for rest, the intricate details of the weapons on the walls became more apparent. Rin’s fingers gently traced the edges of a mythical sword, and Aruno found himself captivated by the symbolism etched into a nearby shield.

In the midst of the ancient weapons and artifacts, the four friends found themselves confronted with the practicality of only two beds. Laughter bubbled up as they exchanged playful banter about who would sleep where.

Ko, with his characteristic smirk, teased.

“Well, it looks like it’s time to decide sleeping arrangements. Any volunteers?”

“Should we draw straws, or are we going to settle this like adults?”

“I call dibs on the comfiest spot.”

“Maybe we should just be practical and share the beds. No need for complicated decisions.”

The room echoed with their lighthearted banter, turning a potential dilemma into an amusing moment of camaraderie.

The room echoed with laughter as Aruno grinned.

“Alright, Rin, we get the cozy bed. No funny business though!”

“No promises, Aruno. But watch out for my snoring.”

“Well, Ko, looks like we’re stuck together. Pray that I don’t steal all the covers.”

“I’ll risk it. Just don’t bite me.”

“That’s a promise I will not keep.”

Amidst the jokes and light-hearted banter, the group settled into their sleeping arrangements, unaware of the unexpected turns this night might bring.

Rin grinned, propping herself up on her elbow.

“You know, Aruno, for a guy who I just met like two days ago maybe three. Your great at dealing with demons and, you’re surprisingly good company.”

“Well, dealing with demons is a walk in the park compared to sharing a bed with you, Rin.”

“Don’t act like you’re not enjoying it.”

“Fine, maybe a little. But just for tonight, okay?”

“You know if Ko and Rin weren’t here also, I probably would’ve made a move on you by now Aruno.”

“Is that so, I know I’m good looking and all but, take me out to dinner first. Geez.”

On the other bed, Ko adjusted himself, casting a glance at Yoru, who was busy examining her Arcanum. He grinned.

“So, Yoru, any particular reason you’re glued to your Arcanum?”

“Maybe because it’s not every day we get to sleep in a room with ancient weaponry. I’m checking if any of these legendary swords are on sale.”

“Smart move. Maybe we’ll get lucky with a two-for-one deal on Excalibur or something.”

“I’m gonna join you now, move over a bit.”

Yoru smirked and playfully nudged Ko. 

“You know, Ko, if this was a romantic novel, this would be the part where the protagonists share a deep, meaningful moment.”

“Oh, really? And what kind of moment are we talking about here?”

“The kind that usually involves two people getting closer… much closer.”

“Ah, got it. So, when does the part come where we defeat demons and save the world together?”

“That’s the sequel, Ko. For now, let’s just enjoy the banter and leave the world-saving for tomorrow.”

Ko glanced at Yoru with a mischievous grin.

“You’re really not holding back, are you?”

Yoru leaned in, her voice a soft whisper.

“Life’s too short for hesitation, Ko.”

“True enough. But with Rin and Aruno right there, I think we can wait for a more opportune moment.”

“Always the practical one. Fine, we’ll save the spicy moments for another time. But mark my words, Ko, the sequel might come sooner than you think.”

“Alright, but let’s keep it quiet. Don’t want to make it too obvious with our audience next door.”

“I’ll be as silent as the shadows, Ko.”

“You better be, I don’t want those two knowing about this yet!”

Ko’s fingers delicately traced the contours of Yoru’s face, creating a gentle path as he tilted her chin upward. Their breaths synchronized, creating an intimate rhythm in the hushed atmosphere. The warmth of the moonlight cast a soft glow, highlighting the vulnerability in their eyes. As their lips touched, it was a whisper of connection, a shared heartbeat that echoed in the quiet room. The sensation was tender, a delicate exploration of emotions woven into the simplicity of a kiss, marking a significant step in the intricate dance of their evolving relationship.

Yoru with heat in her eyes, quietly telling Ko.” 

“Lucky for you, you’re not that much taller. Working my way down won’t take too long, Ko.”

“Just don’t make it too obvious. We’re sharing this space with the other two, remember?”

“Just relax Ko, I’ll take it from here.”

“Wonder if Ko and Yoru are having their own adventures over there. Maybe we should place bets on it.”

“I wouldn’t be surprised if they’re turning the room into a steamy romance novel.”

“Hey, do you mind if I… you know, hold you while we sleep? It just brings back some comforting memories from when I used to sleep with my older sister when we were younger.”

“Of course, Aruno. It’s nice to know you trust me enough for that. We’re in this together.”

Aruno whispered a soft.

“Good night.”

The words carrying a warmth he didn’t express often. As they settled into sleep, Aruno, in a moment of vulnerability, quietly uttered…

“I love you.”

However, the words slipped past Rin’s awareness, lost in the quiet breaths of the night. With Rin in his arms, Aruno drifted into a peaceful slumber, the echoes of unspoken feelings lingering in the room.

Ko and Yoru woke up beside each other, their expressions mirroring a shared satisfaction. With a light chuckle, Ko remarked.

“Last night was fun, wasn’t it?”

“Definitely. Now, what time is it?”

As the morning sunlight gently spilled into the room, Ko checked his Arcanum, revealing that it was 7:30 AM on September 13th, 2025. The date hung in the digital display, marking a new day for the group. Ko and Yoru exchanged glances, acknowledging the time, as they continued to share moments in the quietude of the early September morning.

The realization of the shift in time struck them as Ko and Yoru exchanged perplexed glances. March was merely yesterday in their memories, yet here they were in September. The peculiar nature of the alternate dimension unfolded before them, a constant reminder that the rules of time played by a different set in this realm. They chuckled at the quirkiness of their situation, embracing the mysteries of the unique world they found themselves in.

As Ko and Yoru navigated through the peculiarities of the time-shifted dimension, they found themselves contemplating the current date and the task of getting dressed. Yoru, with her distinctive style, donned a black tight shirt under a matching jacket, accompanied by a sleek black skirt, thigh-high stockings, and platform shoes. Her black hair, cascading down to her neck, framed her edgy ensemble. On the other hand, Ko opted for a stylish combination – a black cardigan over a crisp white t-shirt, paired with dark blue pants and sturdy black boots. His light blue, spiked-up hair added a vibrant touch to his overall look. Together, they embraced the uniqueness of their attire in this unfamiliar dimension.

Ko and Yoru exchanged playful banter about their outfits, each complimenting the other on their distinctive styles.

“Looking sharp, Yoru. You always manage to pull off that edgy look.”

“And you, Ko, with your cool and casual vibe. We make quite the stylish duo.”

Ko and Yoru approached Aruno and Rin’s bed, noticing Aruno’s arms wrapped around Rin. They exchanged mischievous glances, suppressing laughter as they concocted playful banter.

Yoru nudged Ko, whispering…

“Looks like Aruno found a cozy spot for himself.”

“Maybe he’s practicing his protective boyfriend skills in his sleep.”

Their teasing remarks escalated until Aruno and Rin stirred awake, greeted by the humorous spectacle crafted by Ko and Yoru.

Aruno, still slightly groggy from sleep, glanced between Ko and Yoru with a puzzled expression. 

“What’s so funny? Did I miss the punchline to some dream joke?”

“Just admiring your impressive cuddling skills, Aruno. You’ve got the whole protective boyfriend thing down.”

“Yeah, we were almost convinced we’d walked into a romance movie for a moment there.”

“It’s not like that between Rin and me. It’s just… holding her brings back memories of when I used to comfort my sister. It’s comforting, that’s all.”

“You’ve got a sister?”

“Yeah, but she’s not around anymore. It’s a long story.”

Rin stretched and yawned, joining the conversation.

“What’s up? Why the serious talk so early in the morning?”

“We were just trying to decipher the sleeping arrangements last night. Thought Aruno and Rin were getting cozy.”

“Yeah, we were betting on when you two would start making out.”

“Sorry to disappoint, but it’s not like that. Just wanted to make sure Rin was comfortable. And like I said,It reminded me of my sister.”

“Well, it’s nice to have someone to watch over me. Thanks, Aruno.”

“Guess we owe you an apology for the assumptions. And, by the way, good morning!”

Aruno jokingly replied to Ko.

“Good morning to you too, so did you and Yoru hookup at all.”

Yoru and Ko both blushed, stammering over their words. Ko managed to mutter, “Wha- no, it’s not like that!”

Aruno’s eyes widened in realization as he observed Ko and Yoru’s flustered expressions. 

Ko scratched his head nervously, and Yoru blushed deeper. 

“Well, uh, things happened.. let’s just say that.”

Aruno burst into laughter.

“Okay, okay, no need for details. Just keep it in check; we have enough to deal with in this otherworldly adventure.”