Kamui: Aeternion VI
Day 5
The thunderstorm finally dissipates as dawn breaks, and the eco garden retracts its protective canopy. Real sunlight pours in after a long absence, giving striking clarity to everything.
Morning comes, and the butler robot's energetic broadcast gently pulls everyone out of their slumber.
System reboot and self-diagnosis complete. Power supply stable.
Current outdoor weather—clear. Visibility—excellent. Circulation system status—operational. Air quality—optimal.
Good morning, dear family members! We have weathered the storm. Please do enjoy this bright, sunny day to its fullest!
With power restored and the eco garden's control systems back online, the butler robot that crashed during the thunderstorm has rebooted as well.
After a long night, the air circulation system has completely filtered out the cold, damp atmosphere, replacing it with the fresh fragrance of rain-soaked vegetation.
Kamui wakes up, groggily opening his eyes before a huge stretch. He hasn't rested this well in quite some time.
He looks at you, who is sleeping next to him.
[player name]'s been working too hard these past few days. I should leave the commandant be for now.
Kamui decides not to disturb you in your peaceful slumber. He steps out of the room and looks out the window.
Following your remark, Kamui looks out the window.
The morning light has swept away all traces of the thunderstorm. Standing in the hall, Kamui watches as the evacuees bask in the sunlight outside, a dreamlike expression of disbelief on their faces.
We made it... We actually made it! I couldn't sleep a wink last night, worried this place wouldn't hold up against such a violent thunderstorm.
(Yawns) You're making a fuss out of nothing, Gramps. I told you me and Bernie would call for you if anything happened when we were keeping watch.
Sniff sniff... The air is so fresh! Is Kamui the sleepyhead still in bed? Imagine missing out on this weather because of sleep!
The building isn't very tall, so Jerome's deliberate teasing reaches Kamui's ears without a word missing. He opens the window and calls out to the child below.
Hey, squirt! What'd you just say?!
Jerome sticks out his tongue at Kamui once again, making a face.
Yeah, I'm talking to you, lazybones! We've been waiting forever for you guys!
Waiting for us...?
His question doesn't reach the ground below, but Jerome seems to understand the puzzled expression on his face.
Come down and you'll see!
You place a hand on Kamui's shoulder from behind.
Morning, [player name]! Did ya sleep well?
You and the construct step out from the residential hall together. The refugees are already outside, admiring the sun. Their voices are filled with relief, having survived the extreme weather, and are taking in the amazing weather.
Seeing the two emerge from the hall, people quickly gather around them. Despite the terrifying events yesterday, everyone remains surprisingly cheerful.
Hey there! Did you sleep well?
Same here. And it's all thanks to you...
He's lying! Gramps said earlier that he couldn't sleep a wink last night!
You little rascal! I ought to teach you a lesson!
Hahaha... That's if you can catch me, Gramps!
The child dodges the old man and runs joyfully in circles around the open area outside the hall.
Jerome, what were you about to say?
Oh, I almost forgot! Come with me...
The child tugs at both of them, leading them outside. It doesn't take long before they spot the rotund butler robot stationed outside the residential hall.
Though its monocular eye still glows blue, the robot remains unresponsive no matter how much Jerome pokes it. Instead of gliding around as usual, it stands frozen and motionless, with only its antenna twitching occasionally.
Did you guys do something to it yesterday? It seems... broken now?
It was still broadcasting earlier. Was it broken already then?
I don't know either... I came over when I heard the broadcast, and it was already like this.
[player name]...
I'm thinking... maybe it's a permissions issue? Since we have full access rights now, couldn't we just...
After a few attempts, the antenna on top of the butler robot finally begins to spin normally, signaling that restarting it worked.
It worked! It's moving again!
The refugees gradually gather around, and Kamui walks to the butler robot's side.
I have some news to share with everyone. Yesterday, while rebooting the power and control center, [player name] and I managed to secure full access to this eco garden...
Upon hearing this news, the crowd erupts in thunderous cheers that shake the ground itself.
According to [player name]'s plan...
Then, music begins playing from the butler robot out of the blue, cutting off Kamui before he can finish speaking.
The butler robot standing beside Kamui emits a crisp notification sound, and its antenna does a full spin.
Full access to the eco garden unlocked. All family members present. Executing command—
Kamui shoots a concerned, questioning look at you, as if asking where the command came from. You look back, answering with your gaze.
Playing the final recording left for future generations by my former master.
The butler robot projects an image of a woman in a white lab coat—something they're very familiar with by now. Her features are still blurry, and behind her stands a desolate eco garden, exactly how it looked before the refugees rebuilt it.
To whoever is watching this, whether it's us, or anyone else who has discovered this place, please allow me to say this—
Thank you. Though I can't see or get a feel of my rebuilt home, the fact that you've discovered this recording means the darkest days are behind us.
In an instant, the bustling crowd falls silent. Everyone holds their breath, captivated by this voice that has traveled across time to reach them.
I hope that this land, and the experience you shared here, have taught you how to trust and rely on each other once again. Even now, I believe that the bonds and trust between people form a stronger shelter than any walls ever could.
And by rebuilding this place, united under a place called "home," you have proven exactly that. I hope from the bottom of my heart that this place, which was built with trust and love, can serve as your new home now.
I hope that here, you can continue writing your own story of love and unity.
The projection ends, the image dissolving into specks of light that fade into the morning glow. The butler robot returns to its normal state, though this time, the music that usually accompanies it has been turned off. It silently stands at attention nearby.
Not a word can be heard among the refugees for a while after. They seem to be immersed in the warmth of the message.
Does this mean... this is our home now?
The silence ends with the elder's heartfelt words. Then, a wave of cheers erupts from the refugees, filling the entire space with jubilation.
Unsure of what to do, Kamui scratches his head and awkwardly pulls you aside to a quiet corner.
[player name], we've gotten access to this place, and everyone really wants to stay here, but... our mission to escort everyone to the other conservation area hasn't been called off.
So... what should we do about the mission?
Kamui speaks quietly, his gaze drifting toward the refugees celebrating nearby.
Yay! Let's go!
Jerome sits perched on Bernie's shoulders, excitedly pumping his tiny fists in the air. Everyone is caught up in celebrating, almost like there's a carnival here.
Only the elder who broke the silence earlier seems to notice Kamui's expression, and approaches the two.
What's the matter, you two? Is something wrong?
...[player name], what should we...?
Faced with the elder's inquiry, Kamui is at a loss. He bites his lip and looks at you with a pleading expression, like a golden retriever that knows it's done something wrong.
You mean... that relocation mission? But... we already have this place...
Upon hearing your words, the joy drains from the elder's face. He turns to glance at the refugees celebrating behind him, then looks back at you.
You flash a sly smile, walk back to the center of the crowd, and pull out your terminal to show everyone a document you've just received.
You pause as all eyes focus on the projected document in your hand.
...!
The incredible news leaves everyone speechless for a few seconds before the crowd erupts into even more passionate cheers.
No way! Did you hear that, Bernie? We have a home now, and support's coming too!
This is great news! I never thought we'd see the day! We have a home now!
You watch the jubilant crowd celebrate before you. As you do, a gentle smile silently forms on your lips.
Kamui doesn't miss this little detail, and he moves closer naturally, drawn to that smile of yours.
I'd expect no less from you, [player name]! When did you apply for this? How come I didn't know?
Ohhhh, so that's why you stayed up so late that night!
Engrossed in your conversation, neither you nor Kamui notices that a few people are missing from the crowd. Without warning, hands reach out from behind and "ambush" the two of you.
Huh...? W-wait, what are you doing? Hey! Jerome, stop pulling my leg!
Before the two of you could figure out what was happening, dozens of hands reached out and hoisted you high into the air.
Alright, everyone! On the count of three! One! Two! Three! Lift!
After a moment of disorientation, you and Kamui feel your bodies suddenly lighten as the crowd launches you high into the air.
AHHH! Bernie, you guys better catch me!!!
Hehe! Who would've thought that Kamui would be scared of a little toss in the air!
Cheers, laughter, and playful jeers blend together, echoing throughout the hall. Each time you descend, countless strong hands catch you, only for the two of you to be launched once more toward the sunlit dome above.
Hahaha!
After panicking initially, Kamui can't help but burst into laughter, waving at you as you both soar through the air.
You can't resist the genuine smiles surrounding you either. With a resigned sigh, you stop struggling and allow yourself to be swept away in the tide of celebration.
That night, a banquet was spontaneously organized to celebrate the eco garden being designated as a new conservation area.
With full access to the eco garden's energy and living facilities now unlocked, a grand feast begins in the plaza.
Talented cooks among the refugees make good use of the kitchen and power, eagerly showing off their culinary skills. The air is filled with the savory aroma of hot soup and the sweet scent of baking bread. The feeling of home brightens everyone's faces.
Here, Kamui, take a bite! It's freshly baked with flour from our storage... Well, how is it? Not too shabby, right?
Smells amazing! Luke, I had no idea you could cook! Alright, don't mind if I do! Mmm... delicious!
Here, try this... and this too... oh, can't forget this one either! Oh right! Jerome, could you go grab a bowl of soup for Kamui too?
Tsk... Bernie, I think you need to look at him first—he's about to pop like a balloon!
Whoa! That's good enough, Bernie! I'm not a black hole, y'know!
Kamui chats and laughs with everyone while taking huge bites of the steaming food. Flavors dance atop their taste buds, washing away days' worth of fatigue.
To him, this is the most delicious meal he's had in quite some time—perhaps because it's seasoned with that famous ingredient called "hope."
Kamui, next time you visit, could you tell me stories about Babylonia? Do you think I could go there someday? I wanna be reliable just like you!
Jerome leans in closer to Kamui. The hostility between them before has completely dissipated. His eyes now shine with curiosity, making him seem like an entirely different person.
Sure! But if you wanna go to Babylonia someday, you've gotta eat right and grow a bit taller first! At least as tall as me. Oh, and you've gotta get more sleep!
The child sulks upon hearing that he can't always be staying up all night, and not a trace of his excitement from earlier can be found.
Laughter and chatter fill the air as drinks are passed around, festivity enveloping Kamui at its center. Yet amid all this commotion, he finds himself instinctively searching for someone. His gaze sweeps across smiling faces until finally settling on a dimly lit corner—
Only to find that it's empty. You have quietly slipped away, completely unnoticed.
Huh? Where'd [player name] go?
Kamui goes through the quiet corridor, searching until he finally spots that familiar figure on the observation deck.
This spot is far from the revelry and noise below. Faint, muffled laughter drifts up occasionally from downstairs. You stand alone, leaning against the railing, silently gazing through the transparent skylight at the distant horizon.
So this is where you've been hiding! Everyone's having a blast downstairs. Why'd you sneak up here all by yourself?
Kamui holds out a plate loaded with food.
Want some? Old Luke's cooking is outta this world, you've gotta try some!
It's good, right? I knew you'd love it! Brought it up here just for you!
What's up? Not hungry? I'll just leave this here then, take a bite when you feel like it.
It's... nothing. It's just that... it doesn't feel right when you're not around.
No way... it's just that... it doesn't feel right when you're not around.
Kamui walks over and leans against the railing, just like you. You stand shoulder to shoulder, savoring this rare and tranquil moment.
An unfamiliar yet comforting song from the old era drifts up from downstairs. "La la la la..."
The singer's voice grows bolder, and the chorus pours from the old speakers, reaching the second-floor terrace where the two of you are. It seems to sweep away the clouds veiling the stars and firmly holds the brilliant galaxy.
[player name], I'd say this mission is a complete success.
So... when're we headin' back?
Tomorrow, huh...
Kamui falls quiet, trying to think of words befitting this moment. In the end, he is unable to come up with anything, and decides to wait for you to finish speaking first.
I see...
Leaning beside you, Kamui can't quite hide the disappointment on his face. Yet he doesn't turn away either.
As if on cue, a small leaf lands perfectly in his somewhat disheveled hair.
You reach out naturally, gently plucking away the leaf while also smoothing out the strands of messy hair.
The moment fingertips brush against his ear, Kamui instinctively freezes for a second. But unlike the previous days, he doesn't jolt as if shocked, nor does he become a flustered, blushing mess.
He simply stands there quietly, allowing your fingers to trace through the tips of his hair. He tilts his head to look at the person before him, savoring the gentle sensation of their touch.
The construct displays his cheerful smile after a long time. You feel a moment of clarity, only now realizing that this brightness has been missing from Kamui's face for days now.
Maybe? I don't really feel any different, [player name]. Do you think I've changed?
Hey [player name], wanna run another test to make sure?
I think... I'm feeling more relaxed now.
Y'know what, [player name]? When you reached out just now, I instinctively thought I'd react... real weird... like before. I was even bracing myself for you to laugh at me.
I was very distant, right? I could tell you were real concerned, [player name].
I was worried I'd be causing trouble for you, and didn't want to delay our mission progress... But... I also couldn't figure out how to express what I was feeling.
Yeah! My heart's still racing, but I don't feel like running away at all. Instead, I feel... at ease, grounded. I can hear my own heartbeat more clearly than ever before.
Kamui takes hold of your wrist and gently guides your hand to his heart. You can feel the strong, steady beating beneath his chest, just as he said.
His accelerating heartbeat playfully pulses against your palm, while the steady warmth of your palm soothes the feverish heat that had been yearning for comfort.
Can you feel it, [player name]?
Kamui turns to face you, looking directly into your eyes. His gaze is clear and sincere. There's not even a trace of his previous evasiveness or tension.
Maybe this whole disruption thing wasn't all bad. It's rare for me to have such a calm perspective on myself and my relationship with you.
Yeah, I've been using the emotion disruption as an excuse for those weird reactions I had around you.
I'm not sure if it was when I pulled that switch... or maybe it's when I saw that journal. I'm not really sure. Either way, I realized that these feelings don't needa be "fixed" or explained at all...
Because to me, you've always been special.
And so the tables turn. You find yourself momentarily confused, getting a taste of what Kamui had been going through these past few days—
Your mind races frantically, as if logic and emotions are locked in combat within the confines of your skull. Yet, despite the chaos in your head, you still manage to locate one unmistakable feeling—joy.
Yeah! Just like Chrome and everyone else in Strike Hawk.
Actually, no. You're even more special than that.
You're the most important person in my life, someone I can't lose... like family. I want to protect you, share moments of happiness with you, and be the first to stand by your side whenever you're in danger.
You've been locked in this dance of probing and testing for a few days now, ever since Kamui's emotion disruption began. But now, after so long, your feelings finally align and resonate with each other.
This sudden realization sends a burst of joy through your chest—one that far exceeds the relief from seeing him recover from the emotion disruption.
And in this moment, Kamui reaches out and takes hold of your hand.
Your palms meet, his thumb gently resting on the back of your hand. The air between your skin naturally dissipates as your hands press together, your touch melding as one.
A dry, warm sensation immediately follows. This warmth is stable. It is no longer that feverish heat caused by confusion, but clear and resolute, stemming from the deepest, most sincere trust and connection.
It turns out that your hearts have been in the same place all along.
Phew!
In that single breath, Kamui seems to have let out all the fatigue accumulated over the past few days.
It feels so good to be honest about my feelings with you. [player name], no matter where we go or what we do in the future, I wanna be there, always.
To me, you're the most special and important person in my life. Just seeing you makes me feel like I can face anything without fear.
And now, you can finally let go of the worries and concerns that have been weighing on you these past few days. You respond, now much more relaxed.
With a resounding click, someone turns on the grand lights at the party below. Under the starry sky, the entire estate shines so brilliantly, just like the galaxy itself.
Your shadows lean against the railing under the night sky, stretched by the fading lights and quietly overlapping on the terrace.
The sound of slow, gentle breathing drowns out the laughter from the party below, and it gradually blurs out, eventually dissolving into the background.
Kamui flashes you a smile more radiant than even the stars overhead. There is no need for another word. You know exactly what's on his mind right now—
