The Cyber Ascension Arc 3 — Recovery & Fun | Volume 3 | Chapter 22: Movie Night & Sleepover
The morning sun filtered gently through the half-open blinds, casting warm stripes of light across the living room floor. The air was calm, almost lazy, after the chaotic battles of the previous night. Bandaids and light bandages decorated arms, legs, and even a few cheek scratches—proof of their intense fights—but now, for once, peace settled over everyone.
Soft mats covered the wooden floor, pillows scattered haphazardly around the room. On the large TV screen, a colorful animated movie played, filling the room with cheerful sounds and lively music.
Youchina sat cross-legged next to Nashino, their legs occasionally brushing together. A small bowl of popcorn rested between them, and she was gently feeding him, holding a piece delicately between her fingers. Every now and then, she would take one herself, leaning slightly closer to him. Nashino, despite his usually playful and teasing nature, seemed unusually calm, his big blue eyes watching her carefully, a faint, fond smile tugging at his lips.
Youchina: "Here… careful, don't choke."
Nashino: "Hm… thanks."
They shared the snack quietly, the subtle intimacy of the moment unspoken but clear. Around them, the room buzzed with similar little bubbles of life.
Jin Yuan and Emily sat side by side, a small bowl of popcorn between them as well. Jin Yuan, ever precise and calm, ate methodically, occasionally handing Emily a piece with a rare, small smile. Emily laughed softly at his deliberate motions, enjoying the silent camaraderie of it.
On the other side, chaos reigned. Yuzurei had grabbed an enormous handful of popcorn and was munching loudly, tossing pieces toward Shinoki, who tried to catch them with a mixture of amusement and mild exasperation.
Yuzurei: "Ha! Gotcha!"
Shinoki: "Yuzu-Kun… be careful… you'll choke!"
Her voice was soft, slightly trembling with both concern and the faint blush that never seemed to leave her cheeks when Yuzurei was around. He grinned cheekily, barely noticing, his eyes glued to the movie but still occasionally glancing at her reaction.
Meanwhile, Shioinkin and Musukoni, the solo members without any "pairings," sat slightly apart. Musukoni leaned back on his hands, observing the room with his usual analytical eye, while Shioinkin, leaning against the wall, seemed oddly engrossed in the movie. Every so often, they exchanged quiet, wry looks, silently theorizing about the plot twists and character motivations, their expressions betraying the faintest hints of amusement.
By evening, the room's energy shifted from relaxed to playful. The group had decided to turn the quiet night into a full-fledged sleepover. Mats and blankets were spread across the floor, pillows fluffed into cozy nests for everyone. The TV played a lighthearted comedy now, laughter filling the spaces between quiet whispers, munching, and the occasional teasing remark.
The sleeping arrangements were simple but thoughtful, pairing each student with someone they were closest to:
Youchina and Nashino nestled close, sharing blankets and occasionally feeding each other popcorn from the same bowl. Nashino's usual playful energy was tempered tonight; he seemed content to simply enjoy the warmth and comfort of her presence.
Jin Yuan and Emily sat side by side, Jin Yuan now more relaxed, letting Emily rest against him as they both watched the screen. Emily's laughter occasionally echoed through the room, light and melodic, making even Jin Yuan's usually stoic features soften.
Yuzurei and Shinoki sprawled across a large mat, pillows scattered around them. Yuzurei still munched loudly on popcorn, occasionally tossing some at Shinoki, who tried to dodge or catch them, her blush deepening with every playful movement.
Musukoni and Shioinkin had claimed a corner mat, lying side by side but keeping the space between them. They continued to observe the movie with sharp attention, occasionally exchanging theories or commentary, their expressions a mix of dry amusement and fascination.
The room was a blend of chaos and calm, laughter and gentle teasing. Popcorn crumbs littered blankets and mats, and the smell of snacks mixed with the faint lingering scent of their training sweat—a comforting reminder of the battles they had fought together.
Hours passed. The movie ended, but no one moved. Instead, quiet conversations filled the spaces: Youchina and Nashino whispered small, playful comments; Jin Yuan and Emily discussed minor plot points and subtle details; Yuzurei and Shinoki argued, laughing over silly scenes; Musukoni and Shioinkin continued their analysis, occasionally smirking at each other's remarks.
Eventually, exhaustion began to win over. Yuzurei finally leaned back against Shinoki, who immediately curled closer, resting her head on his shoulder. Nashino let out a soft sigh, resting his head lightly against Youchina's, his hands loosely gripping his axe now lying beside him. Jin Yuan gently rested his head against Emily's shoulder, and the two of them exchanged a soft, contented glance. Musukoni, sitting upright for a few more minutes, finally leaned back against Shioinkin, closing his eyes.
The TV screen glowed softly in the dim room, now showing credits rolling. Popcorn bowls sat half-empty, blankets tangled around the group, and the faint sounds of the city outside filtered through the windows.
It was a rare moment of calm, a moment of peace. The battles, injuries, and chaos of the night were behind them, replaced by the simple joys of companionship: shared snacks, gentle laughter, playful teasing, and the warmth of those closest to them.
For tonight, there were no threats, no enemies, no urgent missions. Just a quiet, comforting night spent together, a reminder that even warriors needed moments like these—moments of laughter, care, and connection.
And as they drifted toward sleep, the bonds between them felt a little stronger, a little deeper, and infinitely more precious.
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