After the toy store outing was interrupted, we ended up heading home with the wolf-like virtual beast in tow. On the way back, the beast calmly walked beside Aoi, who was being carried by our mother.
“He’s completely knocked out.”
“He did fend off a powerful virtual beast. It’s no wonder.”
Even though Aoi had only been playing with the creature on the way back, using my power must have worn him out. He had completely fallen asleep. The virtual beast, as if not wanting to wake him, walked quietly beside him, keeping a watchful eye.
Still… I never expected my power to be drawn out while I was still inside our mental world. Usually, if I want to do something, I have to either manifest as a spirit or guide Aoi's power from the inside.
Could it be that when I’m at the surface of our shared consciousness, I can also access Aoi’s powers? If that’s true… and if I could channel Aoi’s "over-spec output" together with my own, it’d make my job way too easy. Tempting as it is to test that theory, Aoi’s asleep and there are too many people around. Maybe next time.
Even if I’m the one taking over while Aoi sleeps, he’s really sensitive. If I use his power, there’s a good chance he’d notice.
“...We made it home without incident.”
“Yes. Welcome back.”
Before we realized, we were already back home. Both of our parents seemed relieved that we’d gotten there without the virtual beast causing any problems.
“Alright. Let’s get Aoi to bed first.”
“Good idea. Aoi, let’s head to your bed~”
As our mother tried to carry Aoi to the bedroom, the wolf quietly followed after them. The adults exchanged glances for a moment, but seeing how determined the beast looked, our mother finally said: This chapter is updated first at g.com.
“I’ll stay with them just in case. You all go ahead with the discussion.”
“Thanks. Let me know immediately if anything happens.”
With that, she took Aoi into the bedroom. After laying him gently on the bed, the wolf curled up nearby and closed its eyes. Our mother sat beside them and began reading a book.
...Now’s probably the only chance I’ll get. I can’t hold back any longer.
I gently initiated a mental switch with Aoi and opened my eyes. When I looked over at the curled-up beast, its ears twitched and it turned toward me, clearly sensing something.
“...(stares)”
“......Grrowl.”
...So fluffy. So cute.
Our mother must’ve noticed the stare-off because she walked over and helped me out of bed.
I was completely mesmerized by that pristine white coat with swirls of pale blue flame. The wolf, looking slightly uncomfortable, averted his eyes.
“Kyun…”
“!”
Unable to take the pressure anymore—or maybe just giving in—the wolf slowly rolled onto his back, exposing his belly.
If that’s how it’s gonna be, I’m going all in on the petting.
I got on all fours and started rubbing his belly thoroughly. The soft warmth and the velvety fur matched perfectly with the gentle kindness I had felt earlier through Aoi.
“...!”
So fluffy! He’s too cute!!
“Kyuuu…”
“...Hehe.”
Even though he looked a little awkward about it, the wolf flicked his tail slightly while I petted him. And as we played, our mother smiled softly and quietly pulled out her device to take a photo…
Tips: The wolf can somewhat sense Sera’s presence.