Listless Reset [GI]

Chapter 17

"How sad to see you're leaving so soon," Yoimiya sighed. But that's to be expected, I guess." She felt disappointed that they'd be departing so soon.

It's the new morning and Aether informed Yoimiya that he, Paimon, and Dainsleif will depart for their next location. Where is that exactly? Watatsumi Island. Or as he likes to call it, Kokomi Island.

"Don't be sad now, we'll still see each other. It's not like it's goodbye." Aether reassured her.

"I know, I know." Yoimiya smiled. "I'm not really sad just joking around. Besides, I know you have other places to go to!"

"Whenever we decide to come back, we'll come visit," Paimon said. "Isn't that right, Aether?"

"Yep. We'll visit." Aether nodded. "We'll also be seeing everyone else later on."

-~-

"Row row row your boat gently down the stream..." Aether stretched. "Are we almost there Dainsleif? Paimon?"

"We're about halfway there." Dainsleif steered the waverider boat without looking back at the traveler. "From what I've gathered. You've gone to the Kamisato Estate, Inazuma City, and Grand Narukami Shrine so far correct?"

"That's right." Paimon nodded at Dainsleif's words. "And now we'll be going to Watatsumi Island."

"You know. I suddenly crave fish." Aether looked down at the water as he stared at his reflection. "Maybe it's because of all the water around us, but I am hungry for fish. The only problem is trying to catch some since I can't find it within me to fish." Maybe Dainsleif can fish for them.

"Paimon got hungry all of a sudden because of you." Paimon rubbed her stomach with a frown.

"Well, I'm sure you'll find something to eat once we're on Watatsumi Island. For now, just hold on. Also, move away from there. You're too close to the rear. You'll fall into the water if we get hit by a strong wave." Dainsleif told Aether. "And you too will eat something, I suppose." He eyed Paimon for a moment as he had seemingly forgotten about her.

"Paimon feels like Paimon is being disrespected." Paimon glared at Dainsleif and scoffed.

"Glad to see everyone's getting along. Nothing like some sibling quarrel." Aether smiled softly as he yawned. "Big bro is happy." He remained in the same spot, thinking Dainsleif was being dramatic about him falling into the water.

"Eh.../Mm..." Paimon and Dainsleif sweat dropped at Aether's words as they looked at each other.

Right. They're essentially "family". Although awkward, it looks like one of them is already getting used to this. That being Aether.

Aether hums, his smile still on his face as he enjoys the breeze of the sea. As he finds himself content with this peaceful trip, he finds himself blinking slowly. Eventually, he stops blinking as he keeps his eyes closed.

"Zzz..."

Suddenly the boat rocked due to a strong wave of water hitting the boat. A huge splash was heard causing both Paimon and Dainsleif to freeze as they turned to look behind only to see Aether nowhere.

"Ahhh! He fell into the water!" Paimon and Dainsleif rushed over. Without hesitation, Dainsleif dived into the water as Paimon could only watch anxiously.

After a few seconds, Dainsleif swam up with Aether and got back on the back with the two of them.

"You should've listened to Dainsleif! But forget about that thank goodness you're safe." Paimon looked on in relief as Aether threw a coughing fit.

"Ugh..." Dainsleif looked at himself as if he had been completely soaked. "Honestly, do listen to what's told to you."

"Hey now. It's not my fault technically. I fell asleep for a moment." Aether looked at his own soaked body but didn't feel bothered by the fact that he almost drowned. "That was refreshing actually. Makes me realize something."