Vyran PoV
As we walked through the bustling streets of the city, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. Quadra was a marvel of technological advancement and efficient governance, a testament to the Nomuus Corporation's capabilities. But I knew that my companions, coming from different worlds, might find it overwhelming or even suspicious.
"Alright, everyone," I said, turning to face them. "How about we take a break and head to my place? It's not far from here, and we can have a more relaxed conversation there."
Day nodded, her curiosity evident. "Sounds good. I'd like to see how people live here."
Goerld and Retas exchanged glances but seemed to agree. "Lead the way," Retas said.
As we walked, I pointed out various landmarks and explained their significance. "Over there is the Central Hub, where all the city's operations are managed. And that building is one of our research centers, focusing on sustainable energy solutions."
Day looked impressed. "You really have everything covered, don't you?"
"We try," I replied with a smile. "But like I said earlier, no system is perfect. There are always areas for improvement."
After a few more minutes of walking, we arrived at my residential complex. It was a sleek, modern building made of the same lightweight but sturdy alloys as the beams supporting the sky high cities. The exterior was adorned with greenery, blending seamlessly with the urban environment.
I walked up the door and it clicked open as soon as I snapped my fingers.
"Welcome to my home," I said, leading them inside. The lobby was spacious, with holographic displays providing the latest news.
"Vyran!" Veronia yelled, coming out of seemingly nowhere. She tackled me.
Day smiled at her. "Is this your little sister?"
Veronia hid behind me. "Who are these people, Big Bro?"
"Day and Goerld are friends of mine."
Ret turned away, catching on that I had omitted him on purpose.
Veronia peeked out from behind me, her curiosity winning over her shyness. "Nice to meet you," she said softly, giving a small wave.
Day smiled warmly. "Nice to meet you too, Veronia. Your big brother has been showing us around the city."
Goerld nodded. "You have a very impressive home, Veronia."
Veronia's eyes lit up with pride. "Thanks! Mom always keeps it so clean and organized."
I chuckled, ruffling her hair. "It's a team effort, right?"
She giggled and nodded. "Yeah!"
Ret glanced at a shelf of books. "This world still jas physical books?"
I nodded, leading them further into the house. "Yes, despite all the technology, there's still something special about physical books. They're a connection to our past and a way to slow down and enjoy a good story."
Veronia tugged on my sleeve. "Where's Sis?"
"She is with the others."
My little sister hummed and hugged Mr. Bonbon. "You two really made a ton of friend while away."
I chuckled nervously. In truth, it was just Day and Arare. I barely knew Goerld and his group. While the Titanos like Ret were enemies turned temporary allies.
"Sorta."
She stared at Day again and gasped. "Brother, your oddly dressed friend looks like that girl in the pictures."
Day stared at her armor which had gotten her a lot of stares on the way here. Not that she seemed to mind. Or maybe she didn't even noticed them due to being so enamored by the buildings and our conversation about the company.
"Yeah, she does," I whispered as I felt my heartache.
Vero never did meet her. If she was older, she might think she came back to life. Like how he did when he first saw her...
Day took a deep breath and pushed me, nearly knocking me off balance.
"Hey!" I snapped, turning around. "What was that for?"
Her eyes looked teary. Was she sad for me?
Day took a deep breath, her voice soft but steady. "I'm sorry, Vyran. I didn't mean to upset you. I just... I can see that this is hard for you."
I sighed, feeling the tension in my shoulders ease a bit. "It's okay, Day. You just caught me off guard. It's just... you remind me of someone I lost a long time ago."
Veronia, still hugging Bonbon, looked up at me with wide eyes. "You mean Sarai, right?"
I knelt down to her level, gently placing a hand on her shoulder. "Yes, Veronia. Sarai was very special to me."
Day stepped closer, her expression full of empathy. "I'm really sorry, Vyran. I know I remind you of her and yet..." She sighed. "Maybe I should've stayed back in my world."
I shook my head, offering her a small, grateful smile. "Just being here helps. It's good to have friends around, even if the memories are painful."
Goerld, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke up. "Sometimes, the best way to honor the memory of those we've lost is to keep moving forward and make the most of the time we have."
I nodded, appreciating his wisdom. "You're right, Goerld. And that's what we're doing, isn't it? Trying to make a better future for everyone."
Retas, who was usually quiet and stoic, finally broke his silence. "We all have our burdens to carry. But maybe, by working together, we can lighten the load for each other."
I stood up and laughed awkwardly. It was odd to be consoled by him of all people.
Suddenly, the door opened and in came Varia with Arare, Lia, and Deros.
"Big Sis!" Vero yelled, tackling her.
"Who is this little one?" Lia asked, smiling at her. She gasped and chuckled as she stared at the bunny plushie. "That's a cute bunny you got."
She smiled. "Her name is Mrs. Bonbon!" Veronia declared proudly, holding up the plushie for everyone to see.
Lia smiled slightly. She looked a bit sad for some reason. Don't tell me she knew someone who looked like my sister...
"Well, she is lucky to have such a cutie as an owner."
Veronia giggled.
Varia chuckled. "You're gonna make her head big."
I smirked. "Oh, is that how yours got that big?"
She slapped me over the head and huffed.
"Hey!"
My older sister grumbled. "Go make food. Our guests are hungry."
Arare chuckled. "Especially Deros."
Sis blushed.
I chuckled. "Of course."
The door opened before Varia could respond.
Vero jumped as Wilneth walked in. "Two Big Sis?"
Wilneth chuckled. "I'm not your big sister. I'm Wilneth, your sister's Titanos counterpart."
Veronia blinked and tapped her head. "Counterpart?"
"Yeah, her doppelganger from Titanos."
She gasped. Her chip probably picked up info on Titanos. "Wait, you're from another universe"
"Minus Deros, they all are," Varia said.
Arare nodded. "Lia, Day, and I are from Soleon."
"Ret and I are from Titanos," Wilneth said.
"I'm the lone Uto here at the moment," Goerld said, laughing weakly.
I hummed. Was it a good idea to let Goerld's friends and the Titanos trio roam around? For one thing, they were all working for the Titanos army. Second of all, they didn't know their way around, unlike Varia and me.
"I'll make food, but go find the others, Varia," I said.
She crossed her arms and sighed. "Fine. Let's go, Wilneth."
Wilneth nodded and followed after her.
Deros turned around but his stomach grumbled.
Varia looked over her shoulder and chuckled. "Stay here and eat a snack. We'll be right back."
He nodded, blushing.
Vero hummed and yanked my pant leg. "Hey, Vyr what's the relationship between Sis and that pretty boy?"
I chuckled weakly. "I'm not actually sure myself."
She giggled. "I see."
I laughed genuinely. "Well, let's go to the kitchen. I'll cut you all up some carrots."
"Yay!" Veronia yelled.
"Carrots?" Day asked, tilting her head.
I blinked. Eh? She had no idea what carrots were either?