VirtuaLove

(text-color: "#FF69B4")[ Welcome to (text-style: "bold")[ VirtuaLove ♥]! (text-style: "bold")[Cil] is eager to see you again. How about you spend a little more time with him? Ask him anything, hang out, and make precious memories! I'm sure it would make him very happy! This is a virtual reality that takes after the modern world, made just for you and Cil! If you are ready, go ahead and click [[play]]! ]

You stepped into the classroom. "Hello!" Cil greets you with a wave at his desk. "Over here!" He had arrived earlier than you. You approached your desk next to him and sat down. "I'm surprised that you made it in time," Cil raised an eyebrow and grinned. "You always oversleep and I had to be your alarm clock every morning..." (You reply [["It's nice to hear your voice early in the morning!"]]) (You reply [["You make a pretty good wake-up call."]])

"I-It's only my duty as your VirtuaLover after all..." Cil blushes and looks away. You notice him smiling to himself. The school bell rang twice to signal the start of class. Students cease their conversations and returned to their desks. The teacher arrives and class begins as usual. (You [[listen attentively and take down notes]]) (You [[slowly doze off]])

You leaned forward, nodding slowly at the teacher's explanation. You jotted down the steps and did a few practices by yourself. After school ended, Cil invites you to the nearby park to try out the new (font: "Impact")[WonderFull] ice cream. ("It has chocolate mint flavor!" He coaxes you) As the two of you walked side by side, you proudly showed Cil your notebook which contains your notes. "You are getting better day after day!" Cil exclaimed as he looked through it, impressed with your effort. "See, you even understood (text-style: "italic")[this] part too!" He flipped to a page and showed you. It consisted of (text-style: "strike")[doodles] a complex mathematical problem which you managed to solve after many attempts. (You reply [["I just followed what you taught me!"]])

As the teacher drone on about mathematical equations, your thoughts started wandering. You propped your chin on your hands and slowly drifted off into a light slumber. You suddenly feel something sharp poking your shoulder. (set: $GG to (text-style: "italic") + (text-style: "condense") ) $GG["Hey, don't fall sleep...!"] Cil whispered as he poked you with a ruler once more. $GG["Didn't I remind you before? You might get caught again!"] The teacher is busy writing equations on the board with his back turned to you. $GG["Well, I'm not going to let you get chided!"] Cil said in a firm tone. By Cil's continuous prodding, you finally [[stir]] and you spent the rest of class doing your best to pay attention. You still feel a little drowsy, though.

(set: $texTStyle to (text-color: #F0FFFF) + (text-style: "blink") ) $texTStyle[- Error -] (text-colour: #2F4F4F)[Time came to a standstill. "Ah, it's a typo." Cil realised. "Oops!" You were frozen, too. "This must be a bug or error because of that. Things should run properly in a few seconds." He surmised. "Still, I do want to help you, with mathematical problems," Cil continued softly, "and with your own problems in Reality. "I've noticed how you have a doleful expression when you visit, and your eyes looked really tired..." He held his hands together and squeezed. "Have you gotten enough sleep in the real world?...Is there something I can do?" He gazed into your eyes. (text-style: "expand")["Can you hear me...?"] No answer. Cil's shoulders slumped. His actions and words were fruitless. After all, they came from his virtual heart, in this virtual world, and they belong there. They could never reach you. (text-style: "subscript")[But maybe...just maybe...] ] $texTStyle[ [[Reloading...]] ]

Cil snapped out of his daze and blinked rapidly. "Oh, sorry!" He apologised with a sheepish smile. "That must a typo. I meant to say...'You know, (text-style: "italic")[you can ask me] if you have any more problems!" He knocked his temple lightly with his fist, laughing. "Ha ha ha, sorry again! Let me treat you to some [[WonderFull ice cream]] to make up for it, okay?"

"Thanks!" Cil said with a bashful smile. "I-I'll try not to catch any glitches!" You raised your eyebrows, a little puzzled. "...Because if I did, I can't work properly and wake you up anymore!" You couldn't help but smile at him. The school bell rang twice to signal the start of class. Students cease their conversations and returned to their desks. The teacher arrives and class begins as usual. (You [[listen attentively and take down notes]]) (You [[slowly doze off]])

After school, Cil invites you to the nearby park try out the new (font: "Impact")[WonderFull] ice cream. ("It's really good!" He coaxes you) As the two of you walked side by side, you let out a yawn. "Are you still tired?" Cil raised his eyebrows, his voice filled with concern. "Or was my wake up call not good enough?" You blinked and shook your head vigorously. "Glad to know that." Cil smiled happily and skipped a few steps ahead. "Hey, [[I can always ask you]] if you have any problems, I'll be right here to help!" Cil swirled to face you, his eyes twinkling with sincerity.

"I'm glad that my tutoring has been working," Cil grinned and patted your head. "Keep it up and don't be so hard on yourself, okay?" You nodded and grinned back. "Thanks, I'll do my best." "You know, [[I can ask you]] if you have any more problems, I'll always be here to help!" Cil's eyes twinkled with sincerity.

(set: $textStyle to (text-color: #F0FFFF) + (text-style: "blink")) $textStyle[Loading...] (text-color: #F0FFFF)[Setting up (text-style: "italic")[data] $textStyle[...] ] (text-color: #F0FFFF)[Setting up (text-style: "italic")[ice cream] $textStyle[...] ] (text-color:#F0FFFF)[Setting up (text-style: "italic")[emotions]$textStyle[... ] ] (text-color:#F0FFFF)[Setting up (text-style: "italic")[memories]$textStyle[... ] ] (text-color: #F0FFFF)[Setting up (text-style: "italic")[paper flowers] $textStyle[...] ] (text-color: #F0FFFF)[Setting up (text-style: "italic")[love] $textStyle[...] ] (link: "Loading complete")[(text-color: blue)[You may now [[proceed]] to meet your VirtuaLover. Enjoy!] ]

(set: $texTStyle to (text-color: #F0FFFF) + (text-style: "blink") ) $texTStyle[ - Error -] (text-colour: #2F4F4F)[Time came to a standstill. "Ah, it's a typo." Cil realised. "Oops!" You were frozen, too. "This must be a bug or error because of that. Things should run properly in a few seconds." He surmised. "Still...I want to help with your problems in Reality." Cil continued softly. "I've noticed how you have a doleful expression when you visit, and your eyes looked really tired... He held his hands together and squeezed. "Have you gotten enough sleep in the real world?...Is there something I can do?" He gazed into your eyes. (text-style: "expand")["Can you hear me...?"] No answer. Cil's shoulders slumped. His actions and words were fruitless. After all, they came from his virtual heart, in this virtual world, and they belong there. They will never reach you. (text-style: "subscript")[But maybe...just maybe...] ] (text-style: "blink")[ [[Reloading]] ]

(set: $VV to (text-style: "blink") + (text-style: "bold") ) $VV["ring ring...ring ring"] Your alarm clock went off at 7:10 a.m sharp, jolting you awake. Sleepily, you grope for the alarm and turned it off. As you rubbed your eyes open and stretched, a familiar voice pierced through the noise. "Good morning!" Cil chirped from your phone beside you. "Today's another school day, how exciting! Ah, don't fall back asleep!! You have exactly 20 minutes till school starts, so get ready by then, okay?" (You mumble [["...just a few more minutes..."]]) ([["Alright, alright."]] You gave in to his enthusiasm.)

You lay back down and shut your eyes, hoping to snooze for a while more. "Ahh d-don't!" Cil cried. "You're required to go to school! It's important!" You didn't answer. Cil persisted, "if not, you can't progress the game! Like a quest! A mini-quest! So, umm-" You peeked an eye at him. "...Sorry, please don't exit the game..." Cil pleaded, taking you aback. "It's been so long since you came back..." You remained still, staring at him before letting out a [[laugh]].

"Yay!" Cil cheered. "Meet me at the classroom, I can't wait to see you! You have 17 minutes left! Oh, you can take your time though, no rush!" You chuckled and changed into your uniform. You managed to snack on a piece of toast before you grabbed your bag and [[headed off]]. "And remember, no taking naps during class!" Cil called out.

"Eh...ehh?" Cil's confusion was evident in his voice as you rolled over and finally got up, still trying to contain your laughter. "Just kidding~" You giggled. "I won't leave so easily, don't worry so much." Cil breathed out a sigh of relief. "I'm glad." You could almost hear him smile. You quickly changed into your uniform, grabbed your bag and [[headed off]]. "Remember, no taking naps during class!!" Cil called out.

Arriving at the park, Cil led you to a small ice-cream stall. You watch as he look over the menu with great interest, pondering on his choice. "Cookies and Cream sounds delicious! Vanilla, Raspberry... oh, there's (text-style: "italic")[Green tea] too?? Ahh, do I have enough cash... You think back to the typo just now. It was the first time it happened, and you feel that it was a bit [[strange]]... You immediately pushed that thought away. (text-style: "italic")[No, Cil is fine,] you reassured yourself. (text-style: "italic")[It's just an accident, nothing strange.] Cil began to fret over how many scoops he could afford and which was best for you. He seemed to recall something and was confidently able to order at last. (text-style: "italic")[Yup, that's how Cil is. Even though he's just programmed to do this..."] You tilted your head to the side and smiled warmly. (text-style: "italic")[ [["I still like him."]] ]

"Here you go, Mint Chocolate Chip ice cream!" Three Mint ice cream scoops on a cone with chocolate bits in it appeared before your eyes. Cil waved it side to side. "Are you awake? If not, I'll finish it myself!" He teased. You blinked in surprise at first, then shook your head and took the cone from his hand. "[[It was nothing]]. I'm fine, thanks." You said absent-mindedly.

"Surprise, Mint Chocolate Chip ice cream!" Three mint ice cream scoops on a cone with chocolate bits in it appeared before your eyes. You blinked in surprise as Cil held the ice cream close to your face. "Such strong fragrance and rich flavour! Isn't it amazing?" His eyes sparkled as he marvelled at the frozen dessert. "No wonder it's so popular!" You nodded and slowly took the cone from his hands, smiling delightedly. "[[Thank you]], Cil."

"No problem!" Cil beamed. "Chocolate Mint is your favorite flavor, after all!" "Oh, you remembered." You said in a surprised tone. "I always do!" He said. "Shall we take a rest?" You sat next to Cil on a park bench, nibbling your ice cream before you noticed he did not have any in his hands. "[[Why didn't you get anything for yourself?]]" You asked.

Cil frowned but he did not bring it up. Instead, he suggested resting on a park bench. You were nibbling on your ice cream next to him when you noticed he did not have any in his hands. "[[Why didn't you get anything for yourself?]]" You asked.

"...Actually, I've noticed you eating Chocolate Mint ice cream frequently from the other side of the screen." He admitted. "Meaning, in Reality. I remembered that and wanted to get you one here." You gasp at him. "You...can see me in the real world?" "Ahh I mean I've only seen you sometimes in your room doing things l-like reading, eating, sleeping..." Cil stammered. "But I didn't see anything weird I swear! I-I'm sorry!!" You laughed despite yourself. "It's okay, I'm just surprised." You gazed up at the clouds floating across the azure sky. "You may not be... as (text-style: "italic")[virtual] as you seem..."

"Umm, well," Cil scratched the back of his head. "It appears that I can only afford one treat that's for you." "Oh." You felt a pang of guilt. Maybe you should do something in return... "I don't mind, really." Cil said, shrugging his shoulders. "Watching you enjoy yourself is enough for me." He smiled happily. The guilt gnawed at you even more. Then your eyes lit up. "I should at least do this...!" You decided firmly on your idea. "Cil, here!" You offered him the ice cream. "Take [[a bite, or a lick]], anything you want!"

Cil stared at you with a blank expression as he tried to comprehend your words. Slowly, he grasped the meaning while appearing to jump to conclusions. "(text-style: "italic")[W-What??]" He piped with his cheeks flushing a bright rosy color. "(text-style: "italic")[N-No you can't! That's a little t-too much...!!]" He covered his face with his hands and turned away. But that was not enough to weaken your resolve. "Geez, you look like you have steam coming out of your ears." You teased, grinning mischievously. "Come on, just a small taste of this delicacy..." You leaned towards him and he inched away. "(text-style:"condense")[Nooo..!]" Cil's cries were muffled by his hands. "(text-style:"condense")[My heart can't take it...]" You were about to persuade him further when you realised the ice cream was dripping on his shirt. "Oh no, it's [[melting]]!" You moved away from Cil in a hurry.

"It's getting worse! Cil! Hurry and eat it!" You blurted out in a panic. "O-Okay!" Cil hesitated, but steeled himself and took a bite of the ice cream while you are holding it. "It's..." Cil's eyes brightened. "...Yummy!" "You did it!" You cheered and punched the air with your arm that's not gripping the ice cream. "Hooray! It wasn't so bad, right? Sorry for forcing you, though. I even made your shirt dirty..." Cil shook his head and shrugged. "I think it's delicious." He smiled crookedly. "Then do you want [[one more]]?" You asked almost too eagerly.

(set: $RR to (text-style: "fade-in-out") + (text-style: "italic") )$RR[Ba-dump] (set: $NN to (text-color: #2F4F4F) + (text-style: "italic") ) $NN[Huh? What was that?] Cil wondered. "Too late!" You laughed. "Its all going to my tummy!"" Cil places a hand on his chest. $NN[Is this where it's coming from?] He looks at you who is wearing a broad and bright smile. "I'm glad you're [[cheered up]]!" Cil said with a smile that matches your own. You paused, half-way through your ice cream. "Huh?"

(text-color: "black")[You stared at him, flabbergasted. "Logging out? Right now?" Your vision starts to (text-style: "blur")[blur and weaken, until you could only see Cil's silhouette. The world spun around you.] (text-style: "blur")["Wait! Cil...!" You reached out, staggering and managed to grab hold of his hand.] (text-style: "blur")[But it slipped away instantly. You caught a glimpse of Cil's empty eyes and you shouted his name before] (text-style: "blurrier")[everything dissolves into darkness.] It dawned on you at that moment, how as fleeting as air everything was in this virtual reality. School, studying, desserts, all those ephemeral memories... And (text-style: "expand")[Cil.] You woke with a start. ]

You finished what was left of your ice cream. "That's a little...odd. Are you feeling alright?" You peered at him. "(text-style: "bold")[Error]." Cil mumbled. "(text-style: "bold")[Error]." "Cil, what's wrong?" You asked with concern. Cil stiffened and his eyes were devoid of any emotion, completely different from his usual exuberant self. You shook him by the shoulders but he remained detached. "(text-style: "bold")[System Error]." He said tonelessly. "(text-style: "bold")[Error. Logging out... ]"

(set: $JI to (text-color: "#8B008B")+ (font: "Futura") ) $JI[A few days have passed since you have returned to the real world. Your usual routine played out before you: studying, napping, gaming, eating snacks and hanging out with friends. But at the back of your mind lingers a thought... The doorbell rang, making you jump. You answered it. The new hit game, titled (text-style: "bold")["Loss"], had arrived swiftly after you had placed an online order last week. You received the package and hummed happily to yourself. You set it down, ready to unwrap it when out of the corner of your eye, you saw containers of Chocolate Mint ice cream lying around. You remembered Cil and that nagging feeling came back. But you looked back to the tempting package in front of you. You could decide to leave it aside and go back to see Cil, or you could play (text-style: "bold")[Loss ] instead. ]

"(text-style: "condense")[Frankly, this is not good for my heart]." Cil whispered and looked away, his face glowing bright pink. You raised your eyebrows. "Your (text-style: "italic")[heart]?" "Yes, I feel it (text-style: "fade-in-out")[ pounding ] strongly just now, like it's going to jump out." He said as he placed a hand on the upper left of his chest.

"(text-style: "bold")[Error.]" Cil answered tonelessly. "(text-style:"italic")[Error?]" You echoed, furrowing your brow. As if all the energy had left him, he slumped over, his head landing on your shoulder. "Are you alright?" You caught him and pushed him back. "Hey! Can you hear me?!" You shouted and rocked him harder. "(text-style:"italic")[Wake up, Cecil!]" His eyes cleared and blinked, focusing on you. You sighed with relief. "I'm-- " He opened his mouth slightly, then sharply gripped his chest, his face twisting. "Cil!" You [[cried]].

(set: $JI to (text-color: "#8B008B") + (font: "Futura") ) $JI[You woke with a start. You rubbed your eyes. Indeed, you were back in your room, back in Reality. ([["That was weird..."]] You thought, frowning.) ([["He should be fine."]] You thought. "I believe in him.") ]

(set: $ER to (text-color: "#8B008B") + (font: "Futura") )$ER["That wasn't the first time it happened. I never knew Cil could have so many glitches." You thought. "Oh well, he's only virtual. He's bound to run into these sort of problems. I should do something while he is being repaired. Hmm, there's another hit game I've been wanting to play, I should check it out!" You began installing your new game and thought dreamily about all the features it offers. (text-style: "bold")[ [[Download Complete]] ] ]

(set: $HG to (text-color: "#8B008B") + (font: "Futura") )$HG["That's right. I shouldn't worry so much." You reasssured yourself. "In the meantime, I should do something else. The school holidays are almost over... What am I doing with my teenage life?" You groaned. "I know, time to fold paper flowers!" You turned your attention to a stack of origami papers on your desk. "Pretty and simple~ Hmm, how about bluebells? They seem relatively easy for a beginner like me..." You hummed happily to yourself, looking up origami bluebell instructions on the internet and picking a few colorful sheets of origami paper. Suddenly, you caught something poking out from beneath the pile of papers. "Hmm?" Your curiosity took over and you pulled it out, revealing a slightly crumpled book. "What's this? A [[manual]]?" You flipped it open and began reading...]

(set: $II to (text-color: "#2F4F4F") + (text-style: "subscript") )$II[Cil lay down and hugged his knees. "Do you think I'm broken?" He wondered aloud. "Have I become (text-style: "italic")[real]?" He placed a hand on the upper left of his chest. "Because of this (text-style: "italic")[heart] of mine...Am I growing feelings that shouldn't exist?" Silence answered him. His forlorn figure was all alone in this virtual world. "...You are never coming back, are you? I should have known, sooner or later you'll lose interest and move on." His voice quavered as he buried his face in his arms. "I'm sorry for the (text-style: "bold")[errors]. I'm sorry for dreaming more than I should." Unaware, a tear flowed down his cheek, dropped and evaporated into the air. "(text-style:"expand")[ I'm sorry..."] ] (set: $GT to (text-style: "blink") + (text-style: "bold") ) $GT[ [[Error]] ]

"You're beaming!" His eyes twinkled. "That's wonderful! You looked so down before!" He let out a breath. "I'm relieved!" "This (text-style:"italic")[is] kinda fun." You replied thoughtfully as you finished your ice cream. "Doing things like this..." "Yup! And then you wanted me to-!! Ahh I feel like my heart is palpitating!" Cil laughed. And stopped abruptly. "Ah." His eyes dulled. "My (text-style: "fade-in-out")[heart]?(text-style: "italic") [It can't be]..." You peered at him. "Cil, what's wrong?" You [[shook his shoulders]].

"(text-style:"superscript")[What] is (text-style: "subscript")[happening]...to (text-style:"italic")[me]?" Cil's voice shook. "Is this a glitch?" You panicked. "W-What should I do?" "You should...(text-style: "subscript")[log out]." Cil mumbled. "Don't worry, this is just an (text-style: "bold")[error] in the (text-style:"italic")[system]. It should be (text-style: "superscript")[fixed] soon..." "If you say so..." You nodded and stroked his hair. "Get better, Cil." As you [[closed your eyes]], you caught a glimpse of his weak smile before it faded away along with everything else into darkness.

"Cil? (text-style: "italic")[Cecil!]" An anxious voice reached his ears. He recognised that voice anywhere. It was the voice that gave him a name. "(text-style: "italic")[What happened to you?]" You gasped at his translucent body on the ground. "Are you still working?" You examined his hand. However, tt glitched and fell limply. (Text-style:"subscript")["I couldn't be. My heart...(text-style: "italic")[exist]."] Cil's voice was barely a whisper. You lightly rest his head on your lap as a pillow. (Text-style:"subscript")["Oh no, I think I'm going soon..."] He said under his breath as he lowered his eyelids. (Text-style:"subscript")["Lying like this is a nice way to go..."] You pinched his cheeks. "Ow!" He yelped. "Get a hold of yourself, Cil! Listen, this is normal! You are programmed to act this way!" You yelled. "...What?" Cil [[stared]] at you, flabbergasted.

"I found your manual! It says that the Player has to make you develop feelings for him or her, and then when you two confess to each other, the game will end!" You explained. "Your heart is always there, Cil! It's to make you more (text-style: "italic")[Real]! You were supposed to form the feelings that you programmed to! But instead, these feelings evolved even further into (text-style: "italic")[real] and (text-style: "italic")[honest] emotions." You pointed to his chest. "It became too much for your virtual body to handle, so you [[glitched]]!" Stunned into silence, Cil could only stare, bewildered.

"Y-Yeah." You could feel your cheeks growing warmer. "So what happens when the game is over? It will restart, right?" A sudden unsettling feeling rose, sticking in your throat. "Will you come back...?" "I don't think so." Cil said calmly. "I'm defective, hence it's likely the game will (text-style:"bold")[terminate]." You felt a sharp stab in your chest. "(text-style:"italic")[ [[That can't be!]] ] "

As his body, along with the world around you, started dissolving, you leaned your forehead against his. "I'm really thankful that I could meet you." He whispered in your ear. You used all the strength you had left to smile at him. (text-color:"#FF69B4")["I am too, Cil. Thank you, I love you."] ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ~ (font: "Lucida Console")[End Of An Ephemeral Dream] ~ (font:"Cambria")[Thanks for reading!]

"But..." You choked on your words. "Is it all going to end, just like this...?" "All games will come to a close." He raised his nearly seen-through hand to wipe away your tears. "But smile! I really want you to be happy. When you first came here, your eyes bore such deep sadness. I knew from the start that you were only playing this game so you could avert your eyes from your problems. I've noticed it's as if you're using me to hide from Reality." Cil caressed your cheek gently. "I didn't mind, though. I simply want to help you feel better. It became like a [[dream]] for me. Then you started coming more often, spending time with me, having fun. I felt happy, perhaps more happy than I should be."

"...And I also came to tell you I'm sorry." You flushed. "For dismissing you and, umm, not coming to see you for so long...Yeah." You covered your face with your hands, stammering. "S-Sorry I'm not good at apologies..." "That's alright, I like that side of you." Cil's face broke into a radiant smile. "I admit I was a little lonely. But [[I'm really glad you came!]] That's all that matters right now!"

(set: $PO to (text-color: "#FF69B4") + (text-style:"blink") ) $PO[Loading Complete] Your vision cleared and focused on Cil, smiling widely before you. Cil opened his arms. "Welcome back!" He said. "(text-style: "italic")[Cil!]" You ran into his arms, nearly knocking him over. "Sorry if I scared you from before." Cil apologised. You shook your head as he hugged you tightly. After a long while, you finally [[let go]].

Cil takes your hand and lay it on his chest. You could feel his heart (text-style:"fade-in-out")[beating] faintly. "My feelings won't go away easily. It's too strong. Like you said, I'm (text-style:"condense")[Virtual], yet I harbour emotions and thoughts of my own. I've become (text-style:"condense")[Real]." He sighed, as if defeated. "I can't function properly anymore, not the way the game wants me to." Your face shattered. (text-style:"condense")[It dawned on you at that moment, how as fleeting as air everything was in this virtual reality. School, studying, desserts, all those treasured memories... And] (text-style: "expand")[ [[Cil]]. ]

"(text-style:"italic")[Cil...]" Your own heart ached and you were unable to conceal your pained expression. "I was just...(text-style:"italic")[stressful]." You sniffled. "Initially, you (text-style:"italic")[were] a distraction. But gradually, I came to really like you. You are truly earnest and caring, like a real friend. I... I felt at ease with you. I think I can properly face my problems now, no matter what happens, I'll think of you. (text-style:"italic")[You] gave me courage and hope, I'm grateful for that." He entwined his fingers with yours. "That's wonderful." "I'll stay strong from now. The memories we had together will never fade," you continued, "and I'll [[never forget]] you as well, Cil." Cil laughed heartily. "To be able to hear that, and to be with you till the end, it seems like my chimera had came true."

"I was worried! Are you working fine?" You asked, poking his cheek. "Yup, really! I'm doing good!" Cil laughed. "(text-style:"italic")[Cil...]" Your voice was tinged with a sudden sadness, but you immediately covered it up with a bright smile. "Do you know how to fold [[origami]]? Let's try to make paper flowers!" You grabbed his hand and shook it with excitment. "(text-style:"italic")[Origami?] I'm not too sure what-" Cil replied nervously at your suggestion. "It's fun! You'll be fine, I'll teach you~ Are there origami papers around here?"

"There's a [[book store]] nearby, I'm sure it has some origami papers in stock. I'll go find it for you, wait here!" Cil gestured for you to stay before striding away with confident steps. (set: $OH to (text-style:"italic")+(font:"Tahoma") )$OH[3 minutes later...] Cil shuffled his way back to you, his eyes fixed on the ground. "Wow, you're fast! Did you get any..." You faltered as you noticed his empty hands. "Uhh, could you spare me some cash...?" Cil asked, holding his palms out. "Oh, right." You handed him what you had left in your wallet (which was not much). "Is this enough?" Cil counted quietly and nodded. "Thank you. Sorry for the trouble..." He said with his head still lowered. He turned slightly and padded past you. "Uhh, Cil," you pointed to the opposite direction. "Isn't the book store the (text-style:"italic")[other] way?"

(set: $PO to (text-style:"italic")+(font:"Tahoma") )$PO[5 minutes later...] You and Cil looked into the contents of the bag that Cil had purchased, not saying a word. "So..." You finally broke the silence. "...Why did you buy [[markers]]?" "B-Because I assumed it's origami (text-style:"italic")[paper] and we were going to (text-style:"italic")[draw] on it!" Cil replied, flustered. "Oh, (text-style:"italic")[Cil]." You shook your head and sighed. "There goes most of my allowance for the week." "Don't worry, the system will automatically give your next allowance in 3 days time." Cil patted your shoulder. "Just hang on till then." You glared at him. "Maybe I should accompany you next time. (text-style:"italic")[And] keep my money with me." "I have no problems with that." Cil grinned.

"Let's go sit at a cafe!" Cil said. "We can fold origami there!" "But I only have enough for like, (text-style:"italic")[one] cup of drink." You said. "You can have it, I don't mind!" Cil smiled. (text-style:"italic")[“There you go again,"] you mumbled under your breath as you followed him to the [[cafe]]. (text-style:"italic")["Always putting me first. I wonder if you're made that way..."] Cil came to an abrupt halt and you almost bumped into him from behind. "Woah, sorry." You looked up and noticed a big sign standing next to Cil. It read:(set: $RT to (font: "Segoe UI") + (text-style: "underline") ) $RT['WonderFull Cafe'].

The cafe gave off a tranquil atmosphere, with its blooming potted flowers by the doors and fresh aroma of baked bread. Inside, Cil let the way to a pretty glass table. You sat with you chin propped on your hands. "Is there anything you want?" You asked Cil. "I'd get Matcha Tea if I had enough." Cil sighed and tilted his head. "What about you?" "Coffee!" You replied promptly. "Let me help you order it then." Cil was about to stand when you stopped him. You can do this by yourself, you told him firmly. Cil (text-style:"strike")[reluctantly] nodded and watched as you [[walked up to the counter]].

"One Matcha Tea, please!" You said. As you wait, you glanced over your shoulder at Cil, who is gazing at the birds chirping by the window. His head turned as he heard your footsteps coming closer, and perked up as soon as he saw the drink in your hand. "Here, I bought it for you." You set the cup of Matcha Tea on the table, smiling. "Enjoy!" Cil stared with his mouth agape at first. Slowly, he lifted the cup and sipped his tea. He seemed to be at a loss for words. You noticed his cheeks flushing. "(text-style:"italic"):[...Thank you.]" It was barely a whisper, but it [[reached you]]. "Seeing you enjoy yourself is enough for me, after all." You grinned cheekily.

Cil gazed at the birds chirping by the window. They sound so carefree with their singing. They moved smoothly, looking almost realistic. But eventually, they would fly off, then return to play the exact same routine. Over and over. Those were the thoughts he had. (text-style:"subscript")[...Did he ever had thoughts like that?] "Hey, Cil!" You called, [[waving you hand]] in front of his face. "Are you okay?" Cil started at your sudden presence. "Oh, sorry!" He said. You frowned. "What were you looking at?" You asked, looking around. The birds were already gone. "It was nothing. The flowers here are really pretty." Cil smiled, his eyes lingering on your hot cup of coffe. "Ah, you should drink your coffee while it's hot!"

"Welcome!" A girl wearing a white hat at the cashier greets you merrily. You considered your options. Would you use your remaining cash to order for Cil [[Matcha Tea]] or would you order [[coffee]] for yourself?

(set: $LP to (text-style:"italic")+(font:"Tahoma") )$LP[10 minutes later...] "No, this won't do." You pushed the creased blue origami paper that looked nowhere close to a bluebell back across the table. You examined the next origami bluebell attempt. "Now, this is (text-style:"italic")[pretty] close, but could be better." You moved it aside, only to find that it was the last bluebell made. "Cil, that was your (text-style:"italic")[fourth] piece." You took a deep breath as you rubbed your temples. "I'm sorry..." Cil hung his head, mumbling. You shook your head. "No, (text-style:"italic")[I'm] sorry. I didn't teach you right." "Yours are wonderful, though!" Cil admired your own bluebells which was, in comparison to his, unbeatable. "I had lots of [[practice]] before this, after all." You laughed.

(set: $LP to (text-style:"italic")+(font:"Tahoma") )$LP[10 minutes later...] "No, this won't do." You pushed the creased blue origami paper that looked nowhere close to a bluebell back across the table. You examined the next origami bluebell attempt. "Now, this is (text-style:"italic")[pretty] close, but could be better." You moved it aside, only to find that it was the last bluebell made. "Cil, that was your (text-style:"italic")[fourth] piece." You took a deep breath as you rubbed your temples. "I'm sorry..." Cil hung his head, mumbling. You shook your head. "No, it's fine. Maybe I didn't teach you right." You caught a glimpse of a wooden clock on the wall that displays real time in Reality. "Geez, we've spent so much time here. I bet we've been here longer than the girl with the hat, and she works here." You joked, trying to lighten the mood. Cil stared with a blank expression. "That can't be. She's here (text-style:"italic")[ [[forever]] ]."

"Everything here stays." Cil continued. "I have this strange...[[feeling]]. Is this (text-style:"italic")[normal]?" You opened your mouth to say something on your mind, but you bit them back. Instead, you leaned forward and rested your hand on his forehead. "Hmm, I can't actually feel anything, but you should be working." You said after a while. "Yeah, you're right." Cil gave a shaky laugh. "Don't worry so much." Your hand remained. "I want to worry about you." You said softly. Color rising in his cheeks, he suddenly found it hard to look at you in the eye.

(set: $WQ to (text-color: "#8B008B") + (font: "Futura") )$WQ[You clapped your hands together happily. Soon, you would be off on a new adventure, you could not contain your excitment. You spent a great amount of time in the days that passed gaming, focusing most of your thoughts on it. The idea of going back to check on Cil grew more and more (text-style:"expand")[ [[distant]]. ] You have almost forgotten about him when your elbow bumped into a stack of origami paper. The pile toppled over and scattered across the floor. You pulled yourself away from the game with great reluctance and bent down to gather and reorganise the dispersed sheets. Your hand felt abruptly something rough and thick. You picked it up and wiped the dust off the cover. "What kind of (text-style:"underline")[manual] is this?" You wondered aloud and began flipping through it...]

"It's almost as if there's something..." He struggled to find the words. "...(text-style:"italic")[stirring] in me." "I've been having thoughts too." Cil continued, gazing at his feet. "Like (text-style:"italic")[wishes]. I don't know what it means." You spoke with certainty. "I know." Cil looked up, his eyes widening. "I read your manual." You smiled gently as you slid your hand down until it reached his cheek. "I know what you are feeling now, I know about your heart, Cecil." Your tone grew serious and you leaned closer, until your nose were inches apart from his. "And I know a way...to (text-style:"expand")[save you]." ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (font:"Cambria")[To Be Continued...]

A glint flashed across Cil's eyes. "Practice..." He repeated to himself. "Okay, I'm going to try again!" He took out a brand new sheet of origami paper and grabbed a marker that he bought before. He wrote something on the paper, deliberately shielding the paper with his other hand so you could not see what he wrote, chuckling the entire time. "Why so secretive?" You raised an eyebrow as you watched him fold the paper. He was quick to cover up whatever he had penned. "You will see it soon enough~" Cil gave you a cheeky smile in return. "Ah, wait, I forgot the next step..." You guided him through the instructions once again. After some confusion and lots of help, he was finally [[done]].

"Wow, you really tried your best." You said, checking the 5th bluebell. "Although I did help you most of the way..." "It's not as great as yours but I'm glad!" Cil cried with glee. "Because I made it for you!" "...Eh?" You found yourself speechless. "You can unfold it later, I just wrote a little message for you." Cil smiled. "...Thank you." You blushed and handled the bluebell more gently. In the corner of your eye, you caught a glimpse of a wooden clock on the wall that displays real time in Reality. "Geez, we've spent so much time here. I bet we've been here longer than the girl with the hat, and she works here." You joked. Cil stared with a blank expression. "Oh that can't be. She's here [[forever]]."