It was an understatement to say that this was beyond your expectations.

Okay, you weren't that oblivious. You expected Amias to develop some reliance on you. However, to this extent? To where he wanted you to only rely on him? There had to be something you were missing.

"Amias, that's not healthy. You shouldn't strive to be useful to me. You are your own person, not a tool."

Amias smiled, but it seemed like your words were promptly forgotten before there was any chance to consider them.

"Does it really matter? As long as I can stay by your side, I'll be happy––"

"It does matter. I'm glad that you want to stay by my side. However, you do not need to devalue yourself like that," you explained. "There's also everyone else in the specialty force. They're good people, right? We all rely on each other."

"Devaluing myself..." Amias mumbled. He didn't look offended or angry; he was just contemplative. "I don't think I'm devaluing myself. After all, I want to be useful to you. And you're the most valuable person I know."

Okay, this talk wasn't getting anywhere. You needed to take a different approach.

Think, (Y/n). What reason would Amias have for wanting to rely on you so much?

A memory appeared in your head, it was the conversation you had with the system during the second phase of the SF trial.

"So, who is Amias?"

[ A person raised to have control of this world ]

That response gave you both questions and answers. "Control?"

[ His very existence contradicts your purpose ]

Soon after that encounter, you found out that Amias had his abilities ever since he was a child. Well, at least the ability to reset; the epitome of 'control'. He could change the state of the timeline if he desired. A function that was a no-brainer in video games, but terrifying in real life.

Now, the system mentioned that his existence 'contradicts' your purpose. You assumed that your purpose was to be 'an author'. You didn't know exactly why or what the system wanted, so you just focused on your own goals. Those goals being to improve yourself and prevent unfortunate events from occurring.

If Amias's existence contradicts that... Then is Amias supposed to bring things back to the original plot? No, that wouldn't make sense. There have been no signs of the plot actively trying to fix itself.

I don't think I have enough information to come to a solid conclusion.

"Amias, can you explain why you want to stay by my side so much? If you're not comfortable, then you don't have to––"

"Of course!"

Literally no hesitation. If you didn't know any better, it looked like he was happy whenever you told him what to do. It was endearing seeing how eager he was to listen to you, but also very concerning.

Amias explained his entire childhood to you. From being confined with a loading screen blocking the door to the several times he had died and needed to reset; you listened to everything attentively with a heavy heart.

Amias was trapped in a space and was not allowed to be involved in life outside of it until the game started? Oh man. You thought you only had the plot to worry about, but there seemed to be something much more complex that was slowly unravelling. Something that significantly involved you and Amias. The sooner you understood what was going on, the better.

And now it makes too much sense why he has such a significant reliance on me.

An individual who is unsure of their existence finally found a source of reassurance. That reassurance being you. Unfortunately, you did not have all the answers to Amias's dilemmas. But you certainly held the key for it.

"I was afraid that I'd push you away if I asked too many things. I was so relieved when I found out you could see the holographic screen because it made me feel less lonely." Amias laughed weakly. "And there was the time where you saved me from the mist... You're doing so much for me already, the last thing you need is for me to burden you with questions. I just want to do enough so that I can walk side by side with you."

He glanced down at his hands on the table, nervous for your response. After hearing everything all you wanted to do was give Amias a big hug. God, you couldn't imagine living such a lonely life. It was a miracle Amias could still laugh and smile.

"Amias, whatever you do will never be a burden. Ask me as much as you want. If you need my help don't hesitate to come find me."

"I don't know––"

"I promise." You didn't know how else to express your sincerity, so you prayed that your emotions were conveyed through your words and expression. "I promise that I will never push you away on my own accord."

"(Y/n)..."

Amias looked hesitant to speak any further, it was as if he would only accept your words to be polite. You didn't blame him. His entire life had been filled with uncertainty. Now that he finally had a grasp of certainty in the form of a person that could slip away at any time, he'd be cautious.

"Amias, you don't realise how amazing you are. You're amiable, supportive, a fast learner––the list goes on. Don't ever worry about 'doing enough'. Friends are there to support each other no matter what. I don't help you hoping for an exchange."

Amias bashfully nodded, a faint red hue suffused his cheeks at your compliment as he thoughtfully processed your words. You continued.

"The thought of using you makes me feel horrible. If the time ever comes where I want to 'use' you, ditch me."

Amias let out a nervous chuckle. "I wouldn't want to ditch you."

"Okay, then set me straight at least. Slap me or something." You paused. "But not too hard, please. I don't wanna lose a tooth. I've seen the weights you've lifted."

"Pft––haha!" Amias's face glowed with amusement, and a hand was raised to his lips to muffle his laughter. He was quick to recover and give you an apologetic look. "Sorry, I didn't mean to take your words lightly. There's something about the way you speak that is very comforting. I feel relaxed."

Amias traced circles on the table for a few seconds, collecting his thoughts.

"You're the type of person to put the feelings of others before your own. I find it very kind." Amias smiled to himself before redirecting his gaze onto you. Your heart felt warm at his compliment. "I'll keep your words in mind, don't worry."

You nodded slowly knowing that a few sentences wouldn't change Amias's mindset instantly, but the fact that he was accepting your words was a good start.

"Well, moving on. It's about time I explained things, huh?"

It would've been easier (excluding the potential existential crisis Amias would succumb to) if you could just explain that Anomalous was a game you transmigrated into. Of course, you learnt that wasn't possible during the second phase of the SF trial. The memory was still vividly ingrained into your mind.

"The thing is, this world's––"

Dread seized you for a moment, and as if someone had tied a thin yet sharp string around your throat, something urged you to stop talking; something subtle yet dangerous. For a brief moment, the world turned monochrome and blurred and it felt like someone had embedded a code into your head, a code that read:

[Do not bring up that Anomalous is a game]

"I'm not from this city. I didn't grow up here like everyone else."

Amias blinked in surprise. "Is your situation similar to mine?"

"Not really. I came from a different world––" Woah, that felt weird to say out loud. "––that is very similar to the city we live in. However, apparitions didn't exist and there's no such thing as an AEI."

And it is a world where a game called 'Anomalous' starred you as the main character.

"Oh! That's interesting. If there was no AEI, then what job did you do?"

Now it was your turn to be surprised. Maybe it had to do with the fact that he wasn't from this city, because Amias was so quick to accept the fact the prospect of another world.

"I worked part time in a cafe and aspired to be an author."

Amias nodded, he looked pleased to learn more about you. "That makes sense. You're always in the library in your free time."

You smiled. "Enough about me. The reason why I know so much about your abilities is because..."

Okay, how the hell were you supposed to explain the notion of 'I played as your character in a video game'? You mulled over the fact a little before an idea slipped into your mind.

What if I try to be a little sneaky?

Time to get creative in your response where you balanced between truth and lies.

"Amias, do you know about v––"

Suddenly, a sharp pain struck your throat and knocked the air out of you. Hastily, you covered your lips and a violent cough followed soon after. It was like someone had set your throat on fire with how much it burned. You shakily withdrew your hands and winced at what you saw on your palms.

Blood...?

"(Y/n)!"

Amias rushed over to your side, almost knocking over the small table in his haste. Thankfully, there was a box of tissue nearby. Amias crouched down and took your hand to wipe off the blood. While he did that you tended to your lips.

"Thanks..."

Your voice was a little hoarse, but you could feel the pain subsiding quickly.

"Don't say anything else, please. Did you overexert yourself today? I thought you didn't have any operations."

"Not really, it was because..."

You were too afraid that you'd cough up even more blood if you continued that sentence. Amias must've put two and two together and figured that you were restricted to not delivering certain information.

"If you can't explain it to me, then that's okay. Don't hurt yourself for my sake. You know what? It's late. You should head back to bed."

"No, no. I feel fine now. I know what I did wrong, don't worry." You smiled for good measure. "See? I'm all good now. I can always give you a vague explanation. That works. Anyways––"

"No." Amias's voice was firm, but the worry in his eyes was more prominent. "You've told me more than enough."

"But you deserve to know––"

"I said it's fine!" Amias's eyes widened when he realised that he had raised his voice. He scrambled to apologise. "S-sorry, I didn't mean to yell at you."

You shook your head. "No need to apologise, you were just worried about me. I promise that I'm fine. I was an idiot and tried to be sneaky with my words."

"It doesn't matter. The fact that you're restricted to telling me certain things meant it was a bad idea to tell me anything from the start."

"That's not..."

Wait. Why was it that the system was so adamant on not letting you mention that Anomalous was a game? It was fine with you admitting you were literally from another world. Was it because it would make things too complicated? Or was there a deeper reason linked to Amias?

Well, if everyone knew they were from a game, there would be a bunch of existential crises taking place. You decided to leave those thoughts for another time.

"So, as I was saying."

"Nope."

You blinked. "Wh––"

"Nu-uh, not listening."

You stood up and Amias did the same. "No, seriously––"

"You're going to bed and you're getting some rest. Hurry along now."

Since when was Amias this childish???

Amias stepped behind you before giving you a gentle push, ushering you out of his room. Was he trying to kick you out??

"Wait, Amias––"

A wave of dizziness struck your head, causing your balance to be precarious. Your lack of energy was finally catching up to you, huh?

You stumbled and Amias rushed to catch you. But in the process, you might've accidentally hit your foot against the corner of the bed and might've accidentally tripped because of that and might've accidentally fallen onto the bed and brought a certain someone down with you.

Yes, you were on top of Amias. On the bed. Oh boy.

Amias's faint breaths were loud against the silence, gold eyes fixated on you. Normally, you'd immediately get off him and profusely apologise, but you were so caught up in the atmosphere. After all, Amias's hands grasped your wrists that pinned him down. He showed no signs of letting go.

Oh, shoot. What did I get myself into? I––wait.

There was an idea, one that required some S class courage. You swallowed your nerves and leaned in a little closer. Amias's breath hitched and you swore you could hear his rapid heartbeat. You searched his expression for any signs of discomfort.

Your question was just above a whisper. "... Is it okay if I keep going?"

"...!"

Amias returned your question with a shy nod, his entire face red. God. You were about to discover another side of you if you didn't get off him soon.

"You know..." There was a pause. With how heavy the tension was you were kind of glad Amias held onto your wrist. "...The reason why I know your abilities is because I encountered a source that explains it in detail back in my world." You rushed to get off him and almost fell off the bed. "Done! I told you! Kay, I'll be taking my leave now!"

First, Amias sat up and made sure you didn't actually fall off the bed. Next, he looked to be shocked, frustrated, disappointed, and exasperated all at the same time.

"I––That was––" He was a flustered mess, at a loss for words. "You––"

"Don't worry, take your time."

"(Y/n)!" You laughed at Amias's annoyed glare. With the furious blush, he looked nothing but cute. "Sorry, sorry. I promise I didn't plan that. I just adapted accordingly."

You had no idea who supplied you with the confidence to do what you just did, but you thanked them immensely. You got to see a flustered Amias.

"I...I..."

Amias buried his face in his palms and you could imagine him silently screaming.

"Ah... Did I go too far? Sorry––"

"No! It's fine, I actually kind of liked it!"

...

"WAIT." Amias clamped his hand over his mouth. "I, uh... I didn't... No, I did! I just..."

Now it was your turn to be flustered. Uhm, hello? Were you going to accidentally romance the protagonist of the game?

In fact, did you romantically like Amias? You never really gave it thought. Of course, when playing Anomalous you had your moments where you simped over Amias. However, ever since you transmigrated here romance has kind of been in the back of your mind. It was actually a miracle you didn't catch feelings all over the place considering how much you loved the cast.

"Uhm... Maybe I should actually leave this time." You chuckled nervously. "This was a good talk. I'm glad we had it."

Amias nodded, finally calming down. But before you could leave the bed, he gently tugged on your jacket. You glanced back and saw Amias's timid expression. And the fact he was looking up at you with pleading eyes?? This scene was about to turn mature REAL quick if he doesn't quit that act.

"(Y/n), before you go, can I say one last thing?"

You nodded slowly, sitting down on the bed again. "Sure. What's up?"

"With the whole... 'use me' thing, I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable. And I'm sorry if it came off like I only want to be close to you because you know about my abilities. Even if you didn't, you're still someone I admire and respect!" Amias smiled. "I admire your determination and strive to move forward. You're also someone kind and don't hold grudges. And––I should probably stop before I go on a tangent."

Amias gently held onto your hands, his thumb gently caressing the top. Your heart swelled in warmth, a tingling feeling in your hands.

"Let's continue to be close friends, okay? Let's stay by each other's side and support each other."

You nodded, so entranced by his earnest look accompanied by his sweet words that you almost forgot to respond.

"But we also remember that we don't only rely on each other. We can depend on others as well."

Amias smiled. "Okay." He squeezed your hand. "Please know that for as long as I live, I will never betray you, I will never leave your side, and I will always support you; no matter what your decisions may be."



===



You were on your way back to your room (which wasn't very far) preoccupied with your thoughts.

Amias and I grew closer, huh.

There were concerns about his dependence on you, but the most you could do was remind him that his world didn't have to revolve around you. Forcing that fact onto him won't help.

Another note of concern was his last words mentioning that he'd support you 'no matter what your decisions may be'. If you had made the wrong choice, if you weren't in the right mind to make a rational decision; would Amias support you regardless?

Wouldn't that be really bad?

You were about to enter your room until you noticed a certain brunet nearby. Why were you encountering so many major characters at the dead of night?

"Elias!"

He was wearing a comfortable beige sweater. Sara probably bought it for him. The dude never sets foot in a shopping centre unless it was for an operation or something (or when his sisters drag him to carry bags for them).

"(Y/n), you're up late." Elias glanced at your clothes. "Did you come back from something?"

"Yeah, I was running an errand."

"So late at night?"

"Yup." Unlike Amias, Elias would actually question you. Time to quickly change topics. "What are you doing?"

"I was taking a quick break from work."

"Paper work?"

He nodded. "A few things regarding operations. Nothing too strenuous, just tedious." Elias was about to excuse himself, but stopped. "Say, (Y/n). Do you have a moment to spare?"

"I guess? Why?"

"I'd like to have a quick chat with you."

"Uh.. Chat?" You repeated nervously. "Finally time for me to explain myself?"

There was a small smile on his face, a smile that would normally be invisible on anyone else's expression.

"Don't worry, I'm not going to interrogate you... Harshly."

"That isn't very reassuring." You chuckled. "Nah, it's fine. You deserve some answers. I'm so suspicious at times it's almost comical."

Elias suggested the rooftop to talk. Privacy wasn't a huge concern so you didn't need to go to anyone's room. The brunet's special ability was to manipulate sound. He would know in a heartbeat if anyone were to eavesdrop by the sounds of footsteps or even breathing. He could also ensure that the conversation was almost inaudible to outsiders.

You asked how that worked and it went something like this:

"Would you like an extensive theory lesson on sound?"

"Frankly, no."

The two of you went over to the railings. A peaceful breeze brushed by you as you idly stared at the clear night sky. Elias was next to you, patiently waiting for you to begin the conversation.

"Where do I even start," you mumbled. "Can you ask me questions instead?"

"Of course. I'll start with the SF trial," he replied. "You were possessed by the vengeful apparition from a previous operation, right?"

You nodded. Oh, wait! You didn't get a chance to explain to Amias about Alastor and stuff. He didn't even bother to ask!

That guy... Seriously. I'm gonna shove the information down this throat the next time we meet.

Elias continued while you were silently fuming at Amias.

"The apparition said a few things pertaining to my ability as well as others. The fact that I manipulate sound is public knowledge; however, the apparition knew finer details. This included the people such as Lyle as well," he said. "I suppose, thinking about it now, you can infer a few things about my ability. If that's the case, I commend your analytics skills. However, it was different for Lyle."

Elias recited the scene to you.

"According to her memories, you can only target what you see. I guess you put those holographic screens to good use. That's bad. Even if I run away, as long as the cameras show me, your bullets will find a way to hit their target."

When Elias finished his explanation, you were left scrambling for an explanation. Instinctively, your hand reached your throat. You needed to be careful with your words. If you accidentally spilt too much information that hinted that Anomalous used to be a game to you, you'll be tasting copper again.

"The truth is... I know a lot about everyone's abilities. This includes yours, Caleb's, Sara––everyone. Especially Amias's," you explained, choosing your words cautiously.

"How?"

"I found out from a specific source." You felt an odd sense of warmth on your throat against the cold night. It was probably your apphrehension playing tricks on your mind, but you knew that you should stop there. "I can't tell you what the source is, but rest assured that no one else can access it. It's only me who knows."

You waited nervously for Elias's response. He was in thought, but he didn't seem displeased. Or maybe he was. The brunet was always good at maintaining an indifferent face no matter the situation.

You felt the need to break the silence.

"Sorry that I can't tell you more." You sighed. "I won't blame you if you don't trust me."

Elias shook his head. "No. I don't find you untrustworthy."

Both of your eyebrows were raised. "You don't need to lie, you know. I do things that are completely out of the ordinary and then offer little to no explanation."

"You're right about that." Elias leaned against the railing, his eyes beautifully reflecting the night sky. "I supposed you've hit a soft spot of mine."

"A soft spot?"

"Caleb. He likes you a lot, you know that?" A genuine smile was on Elias's lips. "It's hard for others to notice, but he's been more honest with his emotions lately. It was thanks to your influence. But, of course, that wasn't all. I like to believe I'm a decent judge of character. After the couple of months we've known each other, I do believe you're someone with good intentions.

I consider everyone in the specialty force as family, which includes you as well. I don't need to know everything about you in order to place my trust in you. And if you end up having bad intentions in the end, then I'll live with the consequences."

When Elias finished speaking, you couldn't even muster a one worded response.

Elias glanced over to you and sighed. "That's nothing to get emotional over."

You laughed at his mild display of exasperation. You didn't even know that your eyes were getting glossy. You were an emotional person, but not this emotional. Maybe it was because it was late at night and you were tired.

Ah, perhaps it was because he mentioned family.

"I also consider the speciality force as family. I feel like no matter the kinds of adversities we go through, we'll always have each other's backs." You laughed. "As cheesy as that sounds."

Elias nodded, pleased at your words. "I feel the same," he replied. "Ah, sorry for changing the topic. I need to apologise to you about something. Or perhaps, a few things."

"Apologise? For what? If it's about the time you borrowed the book I wanted, I told you it's fine."

Elias blinked in confusion. "No, I wasn't sorry about that."

"What. Wow, okay. Holding a grudge now."

Elias rolled his eyes, but you could see a glimmer of amusement in his expression.

"During the SF trial whilst you were possessed by the vengeful apparition, I kicked you into a wall."

"Ohhh, yeah you did. Nice kick. Really knocked the air out of me."

"That's not the––I have a feeling Caleb is becoming a bad influence on you." He sighed. "Moving on, there was also our first meeting. I lied about Amias. Well, you probably already figured that out by now."

It took a moment, but then you realised what Elias was referring to.

"The guy with yellow eyes and black hair? Yeah. Was he questioned like me? What's going to happen to him?" you asked.

"We're considering letting him work in the AEI due to his special ability. Though, it's not decided what his position will be just yet. He did get questioned and it didn't seem like he had much to hide as he disclosed a lot of things."

That was such a smooth lie.

You almost thought Elias was telling the truth despite you literally knowing the contents of the conversation that went down between him and the protagonist. The protagonist never disclosed anything to Elias, in fact, the two got into an argument because of that before Caleb came in and interrupted the tension. Then, the protagonist was sent to see the chairman.

"Oh, right! Why did you lie to me?"

"At the time, I assumed you and Amias were working together with malicious intentions. When I'm faced with someone I'm uncertain of, I naturally lie," he answered. "It's a bad habit, but also one that has saved me multiple times. The lie was also partially to observe how you would react."

The answer didn't surprise you. At the start of the game, it was pretty easy to dislike Elias. A prince with a cold heart dedicated to carrying out his duties, someone with little regard for others. Example: how he outed your abilities in front of everyone during the selection of the SF candidates without your consent or knowledge. Another example being how he'd naturally prioritised his job over emotion (unless it came to those really close to him like his siblings or those in the SF).

There was a conflict between his emotions and doing what's best. He has his flaws, but doesn't everyone?

"It seems that I have wronged you on several occasions," Elias said. "Is there anything I can do to make my apology more genuine?"

"Can you make me coffee tomorrow? I have a feeling I'm gonna need it. Oh, please don't make it pure black."

"Sure, but is that it?"

"Uh... Two cups of coffee?"

Elias didn't seem pleased.

"Okay, three cups of––"

"It's just as Lyle said, you forgive people too easily."

"Uhm..." Your fingers nervously drummed against the railing. "I mean, it's like you said before. I know you guys are good people, so I guess forgiving comes easily."

"No, it's different from me," Elias said, tone firm. "(Y/n), you haven't wronged me. There's also the fact that Lyle had tried to kill you at one point."

"I-I mean, Lyle did make it up to me! He took care of me while I was sick and I've been getting stronger thanks to his strength training."

Despite you frantically trying to convince Elias, a part of you felt like you were trying to justify your actions.

Elias didn't look convinced. "I have a feeling you would've forgiven him even if he only did a quarter of what he did."

"No..." The brunet shot you a doubtful look and you conceded. "... Yes."

"You're a kind person. It's admirable. However, I do worry a little." Elias shook his head. "Ah, don't mind me. You're an adult, I shouldn't be lecturing you."

There was a brief silence and you took the time to process Elias's words. Being forgiving helped you establish bonds, but will it become something that would be harmful in the future? You weren't sure.

"It's late and I shouldn't keep you up any longer."

"Wait, that's it? You only asked me one question. There's so much more I haven't explained yet."

"It's fine. I trust that you will tell me when the time calls for it."

"Okay..." Well, that saves you having to explain that you were harbouring three apparition children and one moody eighteen-year-old. "What about you? Are you going to bed?"

"I still need to finish up the paperwork."

"Don't overwork yourself."

"Thank you for your concern, and thank you for taking the time to talk to me."

"Of course! I feel like we've gotten closer."

Elias's expression didn't change, but he was visibly more relaxed. "I think so, too. I look forward to working with you in the future."

With that, Elias left. You decided to stay a little longer. The cold air and the sight of the city from such a high platform kept you company as you celebrated the fact that Elias considered you as family.

This past week was the breather you needed from all the action and emotional turmoil you faced before and during the SF trial. However, as relaxing as the past week has been (well, relaxing as in you weren't facing life threatening situations. You were super busy with operations and dealing with the media) the plot was closely approaching again.

Next week is when, officially in the original plot, Caleb dies.

Game-wise, the player would have experienced a week or two with Caleb (or days depending on how furiously you binged the game). However, you've spent months with him. You saw him almost everyday, you learnt small things about him outside the game, you've had interactions and emotional moments with him as you rather than the protagonist.

A shaky sigh escaped your lips.

It'll be okay. You've done good so far. And you have a plan.

Despite your own thoughts of reassurances, anxieties still flooded your mind.





A/n: MINI NOTE. The next chapter will be the a special chp featuring the SF members! What will it entail? It'll take place in an alternate AU where you and the characters are in a romantic relationship (a seperate scene for each one)! It'll be full of nice fluff. A good break before the plot hits us over the head lol.