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Chapter Text

3 weeks ago.

 

A man with glasses and black hair is typing on his phone. He is very enthusiastic to send a message to his friend.

 

Reza: “Bro, let’s play! I’ll be the support this time, you can be the fighter.”

 

Reza: “You must have fallen asleep, I will wait for you tomorrow.”

 

…

 

Reza: “Baiden, where are you? Why were you offline for so long?”

 

2 hours ago.

 

Baiden: “Who is this?”

 

Reza: “Baiden?! Is that you?!”

 

Baiden: “This is Baiden's father, 𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 a long time ago.”

 

Reza dropped his phone after reading the message. Tears dripped from his eyes slowly.

 

Baiden is his online best friend. They once promised to meet and study together at Reza's dream university. But Baiden died before they even met.

 

𝘉𝘢𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘰𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦. 𝘉𝘢𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘩𝘦 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘉𝘢𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘧𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘵.

 

𝘞𝘩𝘺?

 

Whenever Baiden feels depressed, Reza is always the first person to encourage Baiden and tell Baiden not to 𝘩𝘶𝘳𝘵 𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧.

 

Something is wrong.

 

Reza took off his neck cover and showed the magic mark on the right side of his neck. Shaped like a palette and brush with dark red color.

 

He grabbed one of his paintings and started to go to the time when the painting was completed. Starting the hundredth cycle after dozens of previous cycles. The painting is of a black cat with blue eyes, just like Baiden with his black hair and blue eyes.

 

“I like the painting you made,” Baiden said cheerfully through Reza’s laptop. They are on a video call.

 

“Is that so? You don't feel anything strange?” Reza asked hesitantly.

 

“Just take my compliment and don't shy away!” Baiden scolded him jokingly.

 

Reza smiled. He felt relieved to see Baiden again. Even if it has to be in the form of the past or in the form of memory from within the art of painting.

 

“Actually this is a gift for your birthday,” Reza said. He smiled softly, staring at Baiden who is only on the screen.

 

“Did you remember my birthday?! Thank you so much!” Baiden said cheerfully. “But I can't take it, what a shame.”

 

“You can have it when we meet,” Reza replied with a smirk.

 

“A̷̰͐̃ͅŗ̵͊ͅȅ̵̫̯̃ǹ̸̩'̴̟̇͜t̵̡͙̑̓ ̸̙́͝w̸̧͌͑e̵̥͈̅ ̶͎̓͆n̵̥̙͌̏e̵̹͇̽̑v̴͓͉̑e̸̠̺͒̀r̴̹͑̓ ̵̡͓̓ḡ̷̗͇̇o̸̙̿̂i̶̳̽͒ń̶͇̖g̸̨͂ ̷̜̐́t̴̥͋ŏ̵̳̗̋ ̷̨͓̚b̸͖̌ę̴̕͝ ̸̰̅a̵̜̘̔̔b̷̭̅ľ̸͇̀e̶̥͐͠ ̶͖̠̓t̸̨̯͛̏ȯ̵̢͓̓ ̴̩̐͂m̵͈̰̓ȩ̴̻̊ḛ̵͛͊t̸͔̏͋?̸̩̝̇̕”

 

Suddenly Baiden's face was covered in blood, he smiled sadly with empty eyes.

 

Reza gasped in shock. His eyes widened in horror.

 

“Reza?”

 

Baiden called him out of confusion. He tilted his head. His face was full of worry.

 

“Huh?”

 

Reza blinked his eyes repeatedly. He took off his glasses and rubbed his eyes repeatedly.

 

Baiden is normal. No blood. No smile. Just confusion and concern.

 

“What's wrong? Do your eyes hurt?” Baiden asked with worry.

 

“No, no, I may be seeing things wrong,” Reza answered nervously. He put back his glasses.

 

“Ah, I see,” Baiden replied. However, something still bothered him and he couldn't help but worry.

 

“However, one day I want to paint a perfect painting that you will really like,” Reza said softly. His eyes softened as he looked at Baiden.

 

“This one is already perfect, you know!” Baiden said cheerfully.

 

“No, I want to paint you,” Reza stated his wish in determination.

 

“What?” Baiden asked in confusion.

 

“All of you, not only symbolized in the form of a cat or whatever. But 𝘆𝗼𝘂…,” Reza answered bluntly with serious eyes behind that glasses.

 

“I need something to confess, Baiden.”

 

“I never drew you. It's been a long time since I've been repeating time. Until now, I have never drawn you.”

 

Baiden blinked his eyes for a moment then laughed out loud that successfully made Reza confused.

 

“Hey, what is so funny?” Reza asked with feeling offended.

 

“It’s just so funny that you said that as if you have a superpower or something!” Baiden answered, still in a mischievous tone. “Well, even if you did, you won't be able to talk to me now. You would be busy saving the world.”

 

Indeed, Reza is trying to save 𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥.

 

“And you said that as if you understood more about superpower than me,” Reza replied with a smirk.

 

“Heh, I hope so!” Baiden said hopefully. He smiled brightly.

 

That smile. Reza couldn't stop looking at that smile. If the owner of that smile disappears..., no, it won't be allowed. He will always keep that smile alive. No matter what. No matter how.

 

“Let's get back to the painting. What view do you like?” Reza asked with a serious face.

 

“If you are really serious about painting me... hmm…,” Baiden said calmly. “Sunset.”

 

“Sunset?” Reza asked in curiosity as he tilted his head. “Any… specific reasons behind it?”

 

“Well, I really like sunset. The colors are… comforting like the world is taking its last breath before night falls,” Baiden answered calmly.

 

Reza was silent for a moment. Baiden's words reminded Reza again of Baiden who always died in the past. It is very painful.

 

Baiden smiled as he continued. “For me, sunset is the border between the day that has passed and the night that is to come. I felt that moment, time seemed to slow down and as if it gave me a chance to remember, to feel, to reminisce, before everything sank into darkness.”

 

Reza finally sighed, then nodded. “Fine,” he said shortly. “But I need time, I can't finish it in one day.”

 

“Who forced you, you idiot? You're the one who wanted to paint me! You are free to finish it whenever you want, it's okay even if you never finish it,” Baiden said casually without any burden.

 

“No, I'm not that bad. I will finish your painting,” Reza swore with full confidence.

 

For Reza, sunset is a beautiful combination of colors, something that can be poured into a painting. But for the poetic Baiden, sunset means more than just the colors in the sky.

 

Reza took his brush. He would not only paint Baiden's face, but also the combination of sunset colors that Baiden admired so much. He began to paint carefully, not forgiving himself for the slightest mistake.

 

Reza didn't rush, he just let his hand follow his intuition, creating the first sketch with light strokes. Occasionally he looked at Baiden to make sure that every line he drew captured Baiden's expression correctly.

 

“Sorry, we can't meet, so you'll probably have a hard time seeing the details of my face. You can ask me to turn my head wherever you want,” Baiden said calmly as he broke the awkward silence.

 

“No need to say that. I… … I can handle it,” Reza replied casually, still focused on painting.

 

Day after day passed. The combination of the orange and yellow sunset sky is perfect. The details of the outfit have been finalized. But there is one thing that is very difficult to paint. It’s 𝘉𝘢𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘯’𝘴 𝘧𝘢𝘤𝘦.

 

Reza had difficulty painting using Baiden's photo as a reference. He needed to see Baiden in person, even if it meant video calls. The problem is, the smile that used to be part of the sketch is now difficult to draw because Baiden is changing more and more. Baiden became more gloomy and quieter. Even if Reza asked Baiden to smile, Baiden's fake smile ruined the expression in the sketch.

 

“Baiden, tell me, what’s wrong with you?” Reza asked coldly, he looked at Baiden with a serious look.

 

“Hmm? There’s nothing wrong with me. I’m healthy and fine,” Baiden answered calmly.

 

“You lied,” Reza said bluntly. “I can’t help you if you don't tell me anything!”

 

Baiden frowned. “𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘰 𝘪𝘧 𝘐 𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘭 𝘺𝘰𝘶?”

 

Reza was stunned in shock when Baiden asked that. True, Reza can't help anything since he is just an online friend who lives very far away and on a different island from Baiden.

 

Baiden's face suddenly turned into one full of anger. “You are two years younger than me, what can you understand from me?! I’m already 18 and you’re still 16!”

 

Reza started to shout back. “You’re still my best friend and it’s my duty to understand you! You yourself said from the start that our age is not important. You yourself said that if I have a problem, don't hesitate to tell you, but why is it that if you have a problem, you don't want to tell me?!?!!!”

 

Reza's words made Baiden fall silent and lower his head. After shouting quite loudly, Reza started breathing heavily and looked at the floor with guilt.

 

“Baiden…, I just… want to be your… 𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥,” Reza said softly. “I just want to understand you and cheer you up. That's the least I can do for you.”

 

“And that’s not enough,” Baiden replied as he narrowed his eyes and clenched both hands. “Honestly I feel happy that I still have you in my life. But realizing you're not really there for me, realizing I've met more bad people than you in my real life makes me depressed.”

 

“I’m tired of everything, Reza.”

 

“Sooner or later…”

 

“𝘠𝘰𝘶'𝘭𝘭 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘵𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘰.”

 

Baiden turns off the video call.

 

Reza did nothing. He just stared at the screen with a blank stare. He slowly turned to the painting he’s about to finish. The feeling of finishing the painting also disappeared.

 

Deep down, he also wanted to meet Baiden. He wanted to hug Baiden or put his arm around him to give him a sense of security and comfort.

 

In the end, Reza spent every week without contact with Baiden. Reza's life feels empty. He tried to spam Baiden's number, but the number has been inactive for the past two weeks. No one tried to chat with him as usual to update him on Baiden's condition.

 

Due to stress, he destroyed the painting of a black cat with blue eyes that he had previously painted for Baiden's birthday. He regretted it since he couldn't repeat time to the specific time when Baiden had his birthday.

 

So Reza insisted on continuing Baiden's painting with the sunset that he had promised Baiden before. But Baiden's face ended up being ugly since Reza’s emotions became unruly, which made Reza break the painting.

 

No news for a month.

 

Baiden hasn't been online for a long time.

 

Reza became convinced that Baiden was dead. Of course because of suicide.

 

Suicide was the only reason for Baiden's death during the hundred time loops that Reza went through. And through it all, Reza still doesn't know exactly what problems Baiden has.

 

No matter how hard Reza tries, Baiden will continue to torture himself and keep everything to himself until he dies by his own hands.

 

There's only one way.

Chapter Text

Reza dug through all of his drawings and paintings that were in his notebooks and in his drawers. He even checked under his bed for some forbidden pictures that he had hidden from his parents.

 

Reza finally found a paper containing an old drawing he made. An unfinished drawing of a woman with long black hair and no face.

 

Reza remembered Baiden's wish to meet Reza, that the virtual world alone was not enough. Now he will make it happen, even if he has to abandon his own future for his best friend's future.

 

Reza clapped his hands to enter the time where the drawing was created.

 

He slowly opened his eyes, he saw the same drawing in his left hand and a pencil in his right hand.

 

Right, he went back to the very distant past when he was 10 years old. He still hasn't met Baiden at that time. So he spent his life as usual and enjoyed the past. Elementary school is tiring.

 

A year later, this is the time where Reza will meet Baiden on social media.

 

Reza refused to meet that fate. This time he will destroy the timeline by leaving his own life behind. Yes, his future, his life. He will leave everything behind.

 

He packed his things into a bag and left his own house. He knew his family would definitely be looking for him. He doesn't care. He had spent enough time with his family in the previous dozens of cycles. Now it's time for him to be a part of Baiden's life.

 

He sneaked onto a plane (Thanks to his art manipulation magic) and went to East Kaliex island to go to Cyberinda city, the city where Baiden was located. His heart was beating fast, of course Reza felt very nervous about going on a long journey alone.

 

It’s okay, it’s alright. He can do everything again if something bad happens. He had to walk forward and destroy the cycle that ended in Baiden's death.

 

A few hours later, he arrived at Cyberinda. Of course he was confused by the vastness of the area there. Samarinda is a city that combines nature, culture, and modern life beautifully. He was amazed by its beautiful scenery along the Mahakam River. The city feels peaceful yet lively, with boats and ferries moving across the wide river and people going about their daily activities. At night, the view of Mahakam Bridge with its lights reflecting on the river was unforgettable.

 

Even though many people were passing by around Reza, he felt lonely. He has no one now. No family, no home, no friends. It's all because of his own choice. At least he had his savings and some survival gear in his bag. The most important thing now is to find a temporary place to stay.

 

But every time he looks for a boarding house, he often finds boarding houses specifically for women.

 

“Tch, do they think only girls need a place to stay?!” Reza asked in annoyance as he read a poster about boarding houses.

 

After losing hope, Reza decided to sleep on a park bench. Alone. At least just for tonight. Tomorrow, he has to find a more suitable place.

 

The next day, Reza woke up with a tabby cat on his stomach. He stroked the cat before suddenly the cat jumped and left Reza alone. He sighed as he stood up and continued his journey.

 

Besides a place to live, he also had to find Baiden. The problem is that he forgets where Baiden's house is. He clearly remembered that Baiden had accidentally given him his home address in detail when he wanted to check out a package. Now Reza himself has forgotten about it.

 

Reza tried to ask people about where Baiden lived, but no one knew Baiden. Stupid. Of course, not many people know that Baiden was a severe introvert at that time who only left the house for school.

 

While looking for Baiden, Reza also tried to find temporary accommodation while walking around. Sometimes Reza also takes public transportation when he is tired of walking.

 

At 12:10 pm, Reza found a familiar figure walking home from school in a white and red uniform. Blue eyes, black hair, he is tall for his age (150 cm). There's no mistaking it, this child is Baiden.

 

“Baiden!” Reza called Baiden in a hurry.

 

Baiden stopped walking after he heard that call, he turned around and tilted his head in confusion as he saw a boy shorter than him.

 

“I’m sorry.”

 

“Do we… know each other?” Baiden asked in curiosity with his innocent eyes.

 

Reza froze in shock. Right, he never met Reza in person. At least not in this form. They also never met on social media either. Reza is so confused about what he should do.

 

Reza sighed, he tried to calm himself and find a way to talk. “I’m Misbach, your future friend.” He decided to use a different identity.

 

Baiden's eyes widened in hope then he smiled softly. “Friend?” he asked.

 

“Yes,” Misbach answered. He ruffled Baiden’s hair as he tried to tiptoe to reach Baiden's head. “Come on, I’ll accompany you home.”

 

Baiden nodded as he walked side by side with Misbach. He can see that Baiden looks tired and in despair, but he hid it so well. Even though Baiden is very skilled at hiding his feelings, Reza has met Baiden 101 times that make him know Baiden very well. Now he must focus on building a friendship with Baiden as Misbach.

 

The next day, Misbach managed to get a place to stay in an inn. He also earns extra money on the street by becoming a street artist. Luckily he brought lots of painting and drawing equipment.

 

In a year, he managed to become Baiden's close friend. Sharing stories and hugs. Even though Misbach had to hide his struggle from Baiden so that Baiden wouldn't have to worry. However, after a year passed, Baiden started acting strangely.

 

Baiden started to focus more on his own phone and kept searching for someone over and over.

 

“Who are you looking for?” Misbach asked in confusion.

 

“Reza! H-he is my online best friend!” Baiden answered in panicked.

 

“Reza…?” Misbach repeated slowly. He is super confused about this. There could be no other Reza who could be Baiden's best friend. Reza and Misbach are Baiden's only friends and they are the same person.

 

“I never met him, but I remember very well that he is my online friend. We often play games together and chat together. We give each other advice about mental issues and he is the only person who can make me comfortable,” Baiden explained in frustration. “And now I can’t find his social media.”

 

“Baiden…, I’m right here. I’m your best friend now,” Misbach said softly.

 

“No, you’re not! You’re Misbach and you’re just a random person that involves in my life. Reza is my reason to stay alive! He understood me more than anything!” Baiden yelled, he burst into anger.

 

“There must be something wrong with your memories. Reza is not exist. No matter how hard you find his number and search for his social media, you won't find anything,” Misbach tried to explain calmly.

 

“There’s no way I’m hallucinating! Reza is real!” Baiden replied in denial.

 

“So, do you have his social media?” Misbach asked coldly.

 

“No…, there’s so much Reza, but there is no Reza who is my best friend…,” Baiden answered in frustration.

 

“Baiden, you’re tired. Calm yourself and rest. You can talk to me, I can make you feel better. Don't feel lonely until you make an imaginary friend. You still have me,” Misbach said softly, trying to calm Baiden as he wrapped his arm around Baiden’s shoulders.

 

Baiden sighed and nodded. He held his head with a deep headache. As if he was embracing the invisible burden of the past. Misbach himself was confused. Is this the consequence of changing the past? The timeline where Baiden should be friends with Reza from a long distance, instead has a friend named Misbach who he can meet in person.

 

“I’m sorry, Misbach. I’m sorry. I shouldn't have doubted you, you're my best friend after all,” Baiden said in a guilty tone as he looked at Misbach and tried his best to smile even though his mind was going crazy.

 

Baiden always goes to school every day, after school, he often goes to Misbach's inn to chat and play together. Misbach started to learn one thing from Baiden that 𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘤𝘵 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴. Baiden often gets scolded for coming home late because he spends time with Misbach. For his parents, playing every day with friends is useless and it is better to spend time studying. Misbach felt guilty so sometimes he went to Baiden's house himself so that Baiden wouldn't have to secretly go out again.

 

Seeing Baiden going to school made Misbach miss school. Misbach no longer has any family to help him with school and he does not have enough money to pay for his own school fees. He used his savings and the money he earned from being a street artist just to pay rent and buy groceries.

 

3 years have passed, Misbach has grown taller than Baiden now even though Baiden is older than him. Misbach is already 13 years old and Baiden is already 15 years old (They should be 14 and 16 years old, but they haven't had their birthdays this month). Baiden went to high school, before starting his first day, Baiden came to Misbach.

 

“I want to change my life from now on! You know…, I will try to develop my public speaking skills and get 100 friends,” Baiden said cheerfully in full enthusiasm as he prepared himself for the day.

 

“And after you get all that, you won't forget me, right?” Misbach asked with a smile, of course he expected loyalty from his best friend.

 

“Of course, you’re my best friend after all! You are the one who made me hope and able to get to this point. I will never forget you,” Baiden replied in optimism.

 

“Then run! Chase your dreams. I guarantee your high school life will be amazing!” Misbach said with full support.

 

Baiden's eyes widened in touch as he heard Misbach’s words. He nodded in determination before quickly running to his high school in full spirit to start a new life and new person. He was ready with neat hair and a complete uniform. He became confident with his new charm.

 

After school later, he walked with slow steps and a blank stare. His face was truly full of despair, very different from the optimism Misbach had found this morning.

 

“What happened?!” Misbach asked in concern as he quickly approached Baiden.

 

“Oh, I… I’m fine,” Baiden asked with a smile when he looked up to Misbach.

 

“No, you’re not okay! Tell me the truth!” Misbach commanded in a demanding tone. He grabbed Baiden’s shoulders and stared at him sharply to show him that Misbach worried about him.

 

Baiden froze, he avoided eye contact with Misbach. He just kept quiet, holding everything in before suddenly pushing Misbach and running as fast as he could away from Misbach. Misbach was silent for a moment without making any movement to chase Baiden. He realized he was putting too much pressure on Baiden to the point that he was overwhelmed.

 

What really happened? Was he being bullied? Yes, he remembers very well that in dozens of previous timelines, Baiden was often bullied because he was a quiet student. Maybe this time it's the same case.

 

After pondering for a long time, Misbach made up his mind to go to Baiden's house and have a heart-to-heart talk with Baiden. He was warmly welcomed by Baiden's mother. She said that Baiden had locked himself in his room earlier. Of course Misbach was worried, he was sure Baiden was sad or crying. After that, Misbach immediately walked confidently to Baiden's room. Feeling his responsibility to comfort and draw Baiden back to the light.

 

Misbach opened Baiden's bedroom door slowly before checking inside. The room is very dark. He took the initiative to press the switch to turn on the bedroom light.

 

“𝘽𝘼𝙄𝘿𝙀𝙉!!!”

 

𝘈 𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘢𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘉𝘢𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘯'𝘴 𝘯𝘦𝘤𝘬, 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘭𝘦𝘨𝘴 𝘴𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘭𝘰𝘸𝘭𝘺. 𝘏𝘦 𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘦𝘺𝘦𝘴 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘳.

 

After screaming loud enough to hurt his throat, Misbach knelt down in shock, dropping his glasses. He felt it was too late. He felt it was all his fault for being late. He couldn't help but cry with his chest tightening as if darkness was starting to envelop him. This feeling. This death. All of this will continue to haunt him.

 

From there, he began to rewind time again with his drawings. Entering the time in which the drawings were made. Leaving his family, his life, and his future to meet Baiden. He was determined to stop Baiden from committing suicide. As long as he still had the strength to do everything over and over again, he would never hesitate. He didn't want Baiden to leave before his time came.

 

Your face is as sweet as the twilight, leaving a wound as deep as the ocean.

Chapter Text

In 611 cycles, there was no change. Baiden still ends up dead. The only difference is the way he died. But more often it's due to hanging. Who knows why or what the meaning is. He just wanted Baiden to stop committing suicide. Yes, Baiden can die. But Misbach doesn't want Baiden to kill himself.

 

Misbach knows that Baiden has many problems such as bullying and his own family problems. Should he intervene? Or is there actually another reason? A reason that made Baiden's depression increase.

 

Misbach began to make more challenging changes, after turning back time again, He took all his parents' money before leaving his hometown and going to Cyberinda. He planned to go to school with Baiden, yes. At least during high school because even though he had a lot of money, all of that money was not enough to cover all the school registration fees. Also because Baiden has more problems in high school that made him into suicide.

 

Apart from his name, he also faked his age. He is tall enough to look 17+. He is supposed to be 14, but he faked it and made it 17 so he can get the same class level as Baiden even though he has the potential to be in a different class with him. The results are correct, Misbach is in class 10-3 and Baiden is in 10-6.

 

They met at school and ate together in the cafeteria. Misbach eats noodles while Baiden eats fried chicken. Misbach realized that Baiden seemed happier in high school with Misbach by his side. It seems as if this risky change has yielded satisfactory results.

 

Until Baiden suddenly closed his lunch box and looked at Misbach doubtfully and seriously.

 

“Misbach, there is… something I need to say,” Baiden said softly, he clenched his fist and looked down in frustration. “I…I think I’ve been through cycles…”

 

“Baiden, you are male,” Misbach replied in a matter-of-fact tone as he tried to joking and ease his suspicions.

 

“Not that type of cycle!” Baiden said in annoyance before explaining calmly, “I mean…, timeloops…”

 

Misbach is stunned, he doesn’t know what to say or what to do about it. He decided to remain silent and keep listening. He didn't want to deny it too much which would make him suspicious.

 

Baiden frowned and massaged his own forehead. “I remember so many things…, but my memories seem to be out of sync with each other. I have a memory where I had an online friend named Reza, he looked like you, but you never existed in that type of memory. But on the other hand, my memory says that you are the one who is always there for me and Reza never existed.”

 

Misbach was silent, not knowing how he should react. But this time, he dared to speak, at least a little, just a little. “Do you remember that you repeatedly committed suicide?”

 

“Yes,” Baiden answered bluntly. He nodded. From Misbach’s question, he already realized that Misbach knew something.

 

“We have the same dream then. I dreamt that you experienced a lot of continuous torture that made you commit,” Misbach said softly, he avoided eye contact, considering everything he has been through is a nightmare. “Don't make it real though.”

 

“Oh…, a dream,” Baiden mumbled softly, looking down, trying to understand everything before looking up. “Misbach, you’re lying.”

 

Misbach’s eyes widened in shock but still trying to play innocent. “What do you mean?”

 

“It’s real. It’s not a dream,” Baiden said, staring at Misbach deeply. “You've experienced it all, right?”

 

“Huft, yeah, I do. It’s exhausting to see you commit. I don't know what's going on either,” Misbach answered nervously.

 

Suddenly the school bell rang, indicating that break time was over. They reluctantly leave each other and go back to their own class.

 

Every day, Misbach stalks Baiden in the school area and notes down Baiden's close friends. There is Evan and Ace in class 10-2 and Hamzah, Raynsa, and Zion in class 10-6. Baiden also has extracurricular friends. He has so many friends, so what is hurting him?

 

Bullies, oh correct, but Misbach had already confronted the bullies and threatened them not to touch Baiden again. Even though he knew it doesn't make Baiden comfortable either. That's the least he can do to protect Baiden from bullying.

 

After school, he wanted to walk Baiden home safely but Baiden wanted to walk alone since he had to go to his friend's house to do group work.

 

“It's not usual for you to go to your friend's house, you’re too lazy,” Misbach said bluntly while crossing his arms in suspicion.

 

“Well, this time I have to be diligent, I don't want my classmates to think I'm lazy,” Baiden replied with a nervous chuckle.

 

“Take this with you,” Misbach said as he gave Baiden a little painting.

 

“Oh, this is so cute, thanks!” Baiden said cheerfully as he received the little painting.

 

Baiden put the small painting from Misbach in his pocket before continuing on his way. Misbach grinned as he watched Baiden walk away. Of course he would look for information about Baiden's group work. But no, it’s not group work. Misbach listens to the conversation through the painting that Baiden brought.

 

“What mission is this time, Mr. R?” Baiden asked in a serious tone.

 

“Seriously? Another mission?” Evan asked in annoyance. “I’m so tired!”

 

“Don't say that, we should do this. We’re heroes after all,” ??? replied calmly, trying to ease Evan’s annoyance.

 

“Of course! We have to do our mission together!” ??? agreed cheerfully and in full of spirit.

 

“So, is your magic working well, Baiden?” ??? asked coldly, demanding an answer.

 

“Ah, not yet, Mr. R, I’m sorry, I’ve been a burden for this organization,” Baiden answered in a sad tone.

 

“It’s okay, Baiden. You’re still trying to help us. Let’s focus on our mission,” Ace said softly, trying to calm Baiden from his sadness and anxiety.

 

Misbach was stunned after hearing all that. Baiden? He has power? Not yet? But he became part of an organization? What is going on? This is the most shocking fact of the hundreds of cycles he has gone through. He wanted to ask Baiden, but on the other hand, he was scared. He felt Baiden was the weakest in his organization. If he asks, Baiden will be even more stressed. He decided to hide it first and monitor Baiden's movements first.

 

The result is, Baiden is the leader of the MoF organization. An organization consisting of a group of teenagers who have magic marks on their bodies and have magic at a certain age. Their task is to defeat Vargan, a monster that originates from the evil intentions of humans and is difficult for humans to see.

 

One day, Baiden suddenly distanced himself from the people around him, including Misbach. Misbach immediately sent repeated messages to Baiden. He was very worried. The next day later, Baiden was absent from school. He decided to visit Baiden in person at his house after school. He was greeted by Baiden's mother then went to Baiden's room. He saw Baiden curled up on his bed.

 

“Bai-”

 

Misbach paused when he saw Baiden’s magic mark on his left foot shaped like a mask with a shining white color. He sighed and approached Baiden in determination.

 

“Baiden…,” Misbach called softly.

 

Baiden flinched, he looked up at him slowly. His eyes were red with tears and exhaustion. Misbach immediately hugged him tightly. He was very grateful that Baiden was still alive and well even though he was sad. Baiden wrapped his arms around Misbach's waist and started crying and showing his vulnerable side.

 

“I’ve done something so terrible... I can’t say the details because it hurts so much! Basically, I feel like I’ve betrayed my friends and pushed them away… I-I… don't know how I'm supposed to face them again after I've ruined everything…!!!” Baiden said in a desperate tone, drowning in the despair that was in his own head.

 

Misbach sighed, he patted Baiden’s head gently. “You can try to apologize.”

 

Baiden pulled away from the hug, he wiped his tears before replied in irritation. “It's not that easy. If it were, I would have done it yesterday.”

 

Misbach nodded, then said, “Don't worry about other people, just think about yourself. You'll make new friends soon.”

 

“Until when will it repeat itself?” Baiden asked in frustration.

 

Misbach shook his head, trying hard to find safe words to calm Baiden. “I think it's better for you to just be yourself so you can be happy.”

 

Baiden immediately replied, “But I'm afraid of ruining everything again…!!!”

 

"If you still want to maintain your current friendship, you don't have to be what they want. Be yourself. If they distance themselves, it means they weren't meant for you,” Misbach spoke in a serious tone.

 

“I’ll… try my best…,” Baiden replied softly.

 

“Let’s not make this a tearful moment. Come on, get changed, I want to take you for a walk somewhere,” Misbach requested in a friendly tone. He is very insistent on comforting Baiden and changing Baiden's life for the better.

 

Baiden nodded with a smile, accepting Misbach’s request. Misbach left Baiden's room to give Baiden time to change clothes. He also talked to Baiden's mother about allowing him to leave the house. In the end, Misbach managed to convince Baiden's mother and took Baiden out of his house.

 

Misbach got on his motorbike and patted the seat behind him for Baiden while handing him his helmet. “Come here.”

 

“Since when did you have a motorbike?” Baiden asked in curiosity, grabbing the helmet Misbach gave him.

 

“Since I was 17 years old,” Misbach answered proudly, even though he is 14 years old with his body.

 

Baiden grabbed Misbach's shoulder then sat on the motorbike behind Misbach. Misbach started his motorbike and drove it towards a park in Cyberinda city center.

 

They sat together in the afternoon while watching the sun set along with the beautiful orange and yellow sky. Somehow looking at the sunset reminds Misbach of something.

 

“I should have painted you with the sunset…,” Misbach suddenly said something out of the blue.

 

“Ahaha, you shouldn’t have to!” Baiden replied with a slight chuckle. “But for real…, I really like sunset. The colors are… comforting like the world is taking its last breath before night falls.”

 

Misbach was silent for a moment. Baiden's words reminded Misbach again of Baiden who always died in the past. It is very painful.

 

Baiden smiled as he continued. “For me, sunset is the border between the day that has passed and the night that is to come. I felt that moment, time seemed to slow down and as if it gave me a chance to remember, to feel, to reminisce, before everything sank into darkness.”

 

Hold on, Misbach felt a sense of deja vu with Baiden's words. These are the words Baiden said when Reza first suggested that he want to paint Baiden. It felt like his chest was suffocating. Misbach nodded in understanding. He promised himself he would paint Baiden with sunset. The beautiful sunset that Baiden likes the most. Baiden looked at the ocean in front of him. He is calm yet his eyes are hypnotized by the ocean.

 

“I want to drown myself…,” Baiden mumbled softly.

 

“Don't think stupid like that!!!” Misbach yelled in anger. He paused. He doesn't mean to yell like that.

 

Baiden just smiled,he chuckled while patting Misbach’s shoulder. “Look at you, you’re so worried about me.

 

“That's not funny,” Misbach replied coldly. He narrowed his eyes. He looked like he was joking, but he didn't. It’s really not funny since he’s been watching Baiden die hundreds of times. “I-I can’t live without you…”

 

“𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘥𝘪𝘦,” Baiden said bluntly, he gave Misbach an emotionless smile.

 

“What…?” Misbach asked in shock. His eyes widened in horror.

 

“I’m not forcing you though. But if you stay alive even if I die, then you won because you’re already proven yourself that you can live without me,” Baiden said calmly before he sat on the railing as he was in the middle of dying and alive.

 

“Just so you know…, I’m not that strong…, Baiden,” Misbach said softly. He took a deep breath until he finally prepared himself to say something important. “I’m Reza, I’m from the future.”

 

Baiden's smile faded. He has no specific reaction, just stays silent, waiting for Reza to continue his words.

 

“I’ve met you over and over… yet… I have to watch you die… everytime… everytime! It's as if the universe has destined you to commit suicide, no matter how hard I try to help you…,” Reza said in a desperate tone, he hugged himself as his heart felt tight. “What do I have to do to save you? What do I have to do to change your fate…?!”

 

“I thought so…, all this time you were Reza,” Baiden replied in relief. He sighed softly as he looked away. “You’re trying… to save me… from commit suicide… I honestly… I don't like it.”

 

“You don't like it? Why?” Reza asked in a skeptical tone.

 

“If you repeatedly tried to save me, then I have made the same mistake over and over…,” Baiden said calmly. “Since I hit puberty and got my magic mark, I made a contract with Orb to grant my wish and be a Miracle Savior in Miracle of Future Organization.”

 

“I knew…,” Reza replied, looking at Baiden as if he was desperate for an answer. “But what is your wish?”

 

“𝘐 𝘸𝘪𝘴𝘩 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨,” Baiden answered then he shook his head. “But I ended up knowing something I shouldn't have known. My memories of my life in another universe and the cycle that keeps repeating itself, 𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨.”

 

“I’m sure… 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘤𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘭𝘺,” Reza said in an understanding tone. He patted Baiden's head and smiled. “𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙗𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙨𝙚 𝙘𝙮𝙘𝙡𝙚𝙨.”

 

“Yes, 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙗𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙨𝙚 𝙘𝙮𝙘𝙡𝙚𝙨,” Baiden replied softly. He nodded. “If you are tired, you can talk to me anytime. We can talk here again and maybe sink together in the beauty of the ocean.” Baiden jumped off the railing and stood up in front of Reza.

 

“Are you no longer planning to commit suicide?” Reza asked in a serious tone.

 

“Heh, at least for now,” Baiden answered reluctantly.

 

Reza sighed. At least they are now open with each other. Step by step, Reza is convinced that Baiden will not commit suicide and his mission will be successful. He didn't want Baiden to commit suicide. He cared so much about him. He will vow to always be together as best friends.

 

“If you have a magic mark, then you must have magic too. Tell me your magic,” Reza commanded in a playful tone.

 

“Guess,” Baiden challenged.

 

“Clown,” Reza answered.

 

“Clown?!!” Baiden asked in surprise and annoyed since he doesn't want to be compared to a clown. “Wrong, it’s shapeshifter!”

 

“Guess mine,” Reza challenged Baiden back, planning revenge.

 

“Painting manipulation,” Baiden answered confidently.

 

“Wron- wait! That's close…, more precisely art manipulation,” Reza replied.

 

“Hehe, easy to guess! I know you're always spying on me with the painting you gave me. But I trust you so I just accept it,” Baiden said cheerfully. “The place of my magic mark is on my feet, where is your magic mark?”

 

Reza casually removed his neck covering revealing a dark red magic mark with a palette symbol. Baiden stared at it in amazement. Amazed that Reza has a way of hiding it and looking cool at the same time. Meanwhile, Baiden's was found to be located above his left ankle.

 

“This is it, this is the Baiden I've always wanted. Smiling and being happy like he has no burden in the world but being himself,” Reza mumbled softly.

 

“It’s hard to become myself, I gave them every version of myself, hoping one would be enough. But people only love the version they don't have to fix,” Baiden said sadly with a smile. “When I’m with you, I finally can be myself. Even though I know I’m being selfish.”

 

“You’re not selfish,” Reza declined.

 

“Hehe, a little then,” Baiden replied.

 

At least they have shared stories and shared the burden of what they have experienced so far. Baiden felt more relieved and calm. Reza also felt the same way, he didn't need to hide anything from Baiden anymore. He believes that he can change Baiden's life and make Baiden live happily. He wants to live with Baiden forever without one of them ending himself.

Chapter Text

The next day, Reza saw Baiden was going alright. He didn't know the details of Baiden's exact problem, but at least maybe it was starting to get better. Reza realized that Baiden had been carrying a lot of burdens. The only way to help Baiden is to lessen his burden.

 

“I’m joining MoF,” Reza suddenly said as he was following Baiden in MoF secret headquarters.

 

“Who the hell is this?!” Evan asked in annoyance because there is a new person.

 

“Can you explain this, Baiden?” Ace asked while crossing his arms.

 

“I swear, I’m not inviting him! He stalked me!” Baiden answered panickedly.

 

“As far as I know, MoF only recruits members, not accepts registered members,” Rion said while thinking harder.

 

“I’m M. Reza Misbach I’m here to protect Baiden from all things, including all of you and vargans,” Reza said in determination.

 

“Orb didn't choose you,” Mr. R said from the monitor. He is just a man in a silhouette. He is so mysterious.

 

“What’s wrong if the Orb didn't choose me if I could choose it myself?” Reza asked confidently with loud steps walked towards the orb.

 

Reza put his hand on the Orb and closed his eyes while watched by other Miracle Saviors. He softly muttered his wish. “I wish that Baiden doesn't commit suicide in the future.” He believed that if he made a wish, he would end this cycle.

 

But no, Orb didn't react at all. No shine, no sound, no crack, silent, nothing. Reza opened his eyes and was confused. Is this what it means to not be chosen by the orb?

 

“T-this is not fair! I’m also a teenage witch! Every teenage witch has the right to be a Miracle Savior! Not just the ones chosen by the orb!!” Reza yelled in frustration. He slammed the table in anger that even Baiden hesitated to calm him down.

 

“You already know too much, there's no point in letting you live,” Mr. R said coldly.

 

The ceiling of the base opened up and revealed a long and large flaming weapon ready to kill Reza. Reza’s eyes widened in surprise. He didn't think things would turn out like this. He wanted to avoid it and tried to turn back time but the bullet was immediately fired at Reza. At least before Baiden ran in front of Reza and got shot instead.

 

This is new.

 

Baiden's new type of death, sacrifice.

 

Baiden's chest was bleeding from a very deep bullet wound, he fell towards Reza. His body was cold and weak. Reza was so shocked that he couldn't say anything but could only hold Baiden's body.

 

“Mr. R, what are you doing?!!” Rion asked in anger.

 

“Baiden! Hang in there!” Ace yelled in panic.

 

Tears started flowing from Reza’s eyes until his tears fell onto Baiden's face. His hands trembled as he hugged Baiden's body tightly. He gritted his teeth before pulling a small drawing from his trouser pocket and turning back time at the time he drew the picture he was outside the MoF secret headquarters. He was already on guard about that. Since becoming a Miracle Savior is a rejected destiny, Reza decides to avoid MoF and focus on protecting Baiden since he's still alive.

 

Reza intends to draw more often and record the date and time. If he lived in a video game, he would think this was a save and load process. He will save his progress by drawing or painting and he will repeat his progress by touching his art.

 

Reza always supported Baiden with his work, trying not to make him overwhelmed. He also secretly helped Baiden's mission to defeat Vargan from behind the shadows. Making MoF missions easier. However, there was one person who made Reza uncomfortable, one person who often accompanied Baiden at school. Someone in Baiden's class.

 

“Raynsa!” Baiden called someone as he walked towards him.

 

“What did you… just call me?” Raynsa asked sinisterly while narrowing his eyes.

 

“I mean, Ghani!” Baiden said with a chuckle while scratching his head.

 

“Yes, that's it,” Raynsa answered in a friendly tone. Ghani is Raynsa’s middle name and he liked being called that by his close friends.

 

Raynsa is a new friend who is in the same class as Baiden. Raynsa has many similarities with Reza in physical form. Raynsa has a tall body and wears glasses. He has black hair that is close to dark blue. He has slightly long hair. However, the closeness and friendship between Raynsa and Baiden makes Reza feel uncomfortable. Or is this what is called jealousy? Reza is relieved that Baiden has a friend who makes him comfortable, but on the other hand, he doesn't like seeing Baiden getting closer to other people.

 

“Baiden, can we eat in the cafetaria together?” Reza asked nervously to Baiden.

 

“Ah, sorry, I was invited by Raynsa to eat together,” Baiden answered with an awkward smile. “You can join if you want.”

 

“Yes, I have to,” Reza replied with a serious face.

 

“You… have to?” Baiden asked in confusion.

 

Reza ignored him. He followed Baiden behind while Baiden walked in front of him with nervous steps. In the cafetaria, Raynsa, Hamzah, and Zion were waiting for him.

 

“Hey, Baiden! Over here!” Zion called him in excitement.

 

“Who is that?” Hamzah asked in curiosity.

 

Raynsa just stared at Reza with a gaze full of observation. He was silent without saying anything and just gave him a friendly smile.

 

“This is Reza, my best friend, he is from class 10-3,” Baiden introduced Reza in warmth tone.

 

“Hi, are you three Baiden's classmates?” Reza asked with a friendly fake smile.

 

“Ah, yes,” Raynsa finally answered calmly.

 

They sat opposite each other and seemed to be staring at each other through their glasses. Baiden was busy talking with Hamzah and Zion, while they were still busy with their respective food.

 

“Sorry, I have to go to the restroom,” Reza said as he stood up from his seat.

 

Baiden's gaze immediately turned to Baiden and he also stood up from his seat. “Wait!” he said. Baiden walked closer to Reza and whispered softly, “You don't feel uncomfortable, do you...?”

 

Reza smiled then shook his head. Obviously he didn't want to worry Baiden. Just seeing Baiden safe and hanging out with his new friends was enough to make Reza feel relieved. Reza walked away towards his class, but he stopped when he realized that someone was following him. He turned around and found Raynsa stand in front of him.

 

“Not going to the restroom?” Raynsa asked calmly.

 

“Huh? What do you need?” Reza asked back sinisterly.

 

“I also happen to want to go to the restroom, I think we can go together,” Raynsa said in a friendly tone.

 

Reza sighed. He is actually lying, he wanted to leave them and go back to his class peacefully yet he ended up trapped by this annoying boy. However, Reza was forced to agree and go to the restroom with Raynsa. They walked together without saying anything else. After going through several steps, they arrived at the men's restroom.

 

Reza opened the door of one of the restroom stalls and walked inside. But he flinched when Raynsa followed him inside the same restroom stall as him.

 

“What the hell are you doing?!” Reza asked coldly at Raynsa.

 

“I know you don't really want to come here, you just want to avoid me,” Raynsa said calmly, he adjusted his glasses then locked the door that made them stuck in the same room.

 

Reza clicked his tongue in annoyance. He crossed his arms while observing Raynsa even though on the other side, he felt threatened. Very threatened.

 

“I know you want to protect him. I can help you if you want to help me first,” Raynsa offered with a friendly smile.

 

“What do you want from me?” Reza asked sinisterly.

 

“This guy is so annoying…,” Reza mumbled in his mind.

 

“You call me annoying?” Raynsa asked.

 

“You can read my mind?!” Reza asked back.

 

“It's a yes then,” Raynsa said casually.

 

“Just tell me what you want!” Reza demanded in anger.

 

“I want to read Baiden's mind,” Raynsa answered.

 

“Baiden's mind…?” Reza said in confusion.

 

“Yes, you see, I have the ability to read other people's minds. I can read your mind and know how close you are to Baiden. But Baiden is a new case, I can't read his mind,” Raynsa explained.

 

“And… what can I get if I help you?” Reza asked while narrowing his eyes.

 

“I will tell you what he actually felt and the reason he wanted to die,” Raynsa answered with a smirk.

 

Reza was stunned. He is interested in this idea, but on the other hand he doesn't trust Raynsa. There's something about him that makes him suspicious.

 

“Fine…, I’ll help you,” Reza finally said softly then asked, “But how can I help you?”

 

“Tell me what you know about him,” Raynsa ordered in a demanding tone.

 

“Can we… find a more comfortable and polite place to chat first?” Reza asked nervously.

 

Raynsa realized that they’re still in the same restroom stall. He chuckled and nodded. Raynsa gets out from the restroom stall and Reza follows him. They chat in the park. Reza gave Raynsa the necessary information about Baiden. Even though Raynsa could read his mind and managed to take in more information.

 

“Why are you interested in him?” Reza asked in curiosity.

 

“It’s for research to learn how far I can master my ability,” Raynsa answered calmly.

 

“That's… all?” Reza asked in confusion because deep down he felt Raynsa had other intentions.

 

“I already understand him, I’ll try to read his mind again. Thank you, Reza,” Raynsa said in a friendly tone. He walked away as he just left Reza.

 

Reza immediately drew something in his little notebook just in case since he felt Baiden was not in the safe place.

 

In the classroom 10-6, Raynsa returned to the classroom and sat behind Baiden who was on the same desk as Hamzah. Hamzah was busy playing with his phone while Raynsa tried to look at Baiden and read his mind.

 

“Why are you looking at me like that?” Baiden asked as he tilted his head.

 

Raynsa looked at him in confusion since he still can’t read Baiden’s mind even when he knew sometimes more about Baiden from the information Reza gave him. It’s weird. He tried to read Hamzah’s mind, it’s full of focusing on the game he played on his phone right now. He also tried to read other people's minds and everything came out easily and normally. When he turned to Baiden, there was nothing. Empty.

 

“Ghani?” Baiden called him again.

 

“Oh, what is it?” Raynsa asked in curiosity.

 

“I should be the one asking that,” Baiden replied while crossing his arms.

 

“Are you not thinking about anything right now?” Raynsa asked.

 

“Well, I have so much to think about that I don't even know where to start!” Baiden answered with a cheerful smile.

 

“Really?” Raynsa asked again to confirm.

 

“Yes!” Baiden answered. Baiden started to say a lot of things. Raynsa tries to read Baiden's mind while Baiden says what he said. But the result was the same, Raynsa couldn't read anything.

 

After school, Reza was drawing like usual while waiting for a pick-up but because he was bored he decided to walk. But he was followed by someone familiar. It’s Raynsa. He walked towards him while adjusting his glasses.

 

“I need more information,” Raynsa ordered in a serious tone.

 

“No,” Reza answered coldly. “This guy really doesn't know how to be grateful. I already gave him the information and he asked for more,” he mumbled in his own mind.

 

“I'll treat you to a cafe near the school,” Raynsa said with a smirk.

 

Reza turned around and nodded. “Agreed.”

 

“Reza, want to go home together?” Baiden asked in a friendly tone. He paused when he looked at Raynsa. “I didn't know you guys were this close right away.”

 

“Ah, no, we just happened to be out together,” Reza tried to explain and continued, “I’m a bit busy here…, so…, I’m sorry.”

 

“Okay, then, have fun!” Baiden said as he smiled.

 

Baiden turned and walked away from them but Reza immediately ran towards him with heavy steps.

 

“NO! Please, don't MISUNDERSTAND! Please, don't fake a smile like that! I didn't mean to leave you or forget you, I was just busy. Don't kill yourself…,” Reza said in a desperate tone while holding Baiden’s shoulders.

 

Raynsa smirked, he can feel how desperate Reza is for Baiden. A racing heart, a very panicked face. Maybe as an ordinary person, Baiden doesn't need to be cared about. But as a friend who often sees Baiden depressed and even committing suicide, this is very painful and create panic.

 

“No, it’s fine, Reza. You have your own life. I can't force your life to be mine when I have my own life too. It’s okay, I’m happy for you,” Baiden said calmly while stroking Reza’s hair.

 

“Baiden…, I’m sorry…,” Reza mumbled softly.

 

“It’s okay…,” Baiden replied while patting Reza's shoulder. He gave him a last smile before walking away from them.

 

Raynsa approached Reza as he walked behind him with light steps. His face was calm as if he was observing something between Reza and Baiden.

 

“Do... do you know what he's thinking?” Reza asked Raynsa in worried.

 

“No,” Raynsa answered bluntly.

 

“Tch, I thought so…,” Reza said in frustration.

 

Raynsa started walking away, expecting Reza to just followed him behind. he started walking away, expecting Reza to just followed him behind. They arrived at a cafe that was quite busy to be a hangout for high school students. Reza pulled out a chair and Raynsa considered it an act of service and tried to sit on the chair that Reza pulled out. But Reza quickly jumped onto the chair he pulled out and sat on it as if nothing had happened.

 

Raynsa looked at Reza cynically, he was forced to pull out his own chair and sit alone while reading the menu. “I like drinks that contain caramel. Maybe I'll order a vanilla latte.”

 

“I didn't ask,” Reza said coldly, which made Raynsa annoyed but just smiled. “12 shot americano, please.”

 

“Weird taste,” Raynsa said sarcastically. He rolled his eyes as if judging him.

 

They ordered their drinks even though they looked at each other sarcastically. They work together but on the other hand they are cynical and insult each other.

 

“What do you think about Baiden so far?” Reza asked sternly as he started the conversation.

 

“He is the most complicated creature I have ever seen,” Raynsa said nonchalantly.

 

“You can just simply say ‘human’, you know?” Reza said calmly while giving Raynsa a judgmental look.

 

“He is no longer human,” Raynsa said bluntly before taking a sip of his vanilla latte.

 

“How dare you say that?!!” Reza asked in anger since he doesn't accept his friend being called a despicable creature.

 

“He has superpower, like us. He's already no longer human. But he is still a hero, unlike us,” Raynsa replied calmly.

 

“Are we… different?” Reza asked in curiosity.

 

“We always use our magic without ever making a wish with the Orb and connecting with the MoF, but we are still alive today,” Raynsa said calmly with a smirk. “Can you guess why?”

 

“No…?” Reza answered reluctantly.

 

“Because we’re already 𝘷𝘢𝘳𝘨𝘢𝘯𝘴,” Raynsa said sinisterly as if he is proud of it.

 

Reza’s eyes widened in shock. All the veins in his body froze after hearing Raynsa's piercing words. Vargan is a monster that contains the negative aura of humans and is an enemy that the Baiden organization wants to defeat. How could Reza become a vargan?

 

“But my form is still human!” Reza said, denying Raynsa's words.

 

“Your art manipulation ability makes art come true, one of them is changing your form. I know you more than yourself. If you ask me, I used my 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗽𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 ability to control other people's minds to think that my form is human,” Raynsa explained as he grinning slyly. He sighed then turned his face to be serious. “This is why I was worried when I couldn't read Baiden's mind. But it turns out that I just can't read his mind, I can still control what he thinks about me.”

 

“You control him?!” Reza asked in anger. He stood up as his hands slammed the table.

 

Raynsa smirked slyly before snapping his fingers in front of Reza that confused him immediately. Reza suddenly realized that Raynsa wanted to control his mind so he tried to take his drawing and turn back time. But it was all too late. Reza was mysteriously standing in front of the cafe with a blank mind.

 

What was he doing here? Shouldn't he be going home with Baiden? He turned around and saw a guy wearing glasses while carrying a cup of vanilla latte. He looks familiar, but he can’t remember him. This is weird. But that's not the main priority, the main goal is Baiden. Reza planned to go towards his house, but it turns out he is not home yet. Maybe he's on a mission. That smol guy always so busy, but he can't blame him for being a 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘰.

 

Reza uses his ability to go back to the past where he came home from school. He is waiting for a pickup, but he is bored so he decided to walk by himself. There are people walking past him. In a quiet alley, there's mysterious sound of footsteps.

 

Reza turned around and found no one. He used his ability to scan the graffiti on the walls in the alley he passed through. But he didn't feel anyone's presence, just himself and himself alone. There were no footsteps or traces of anyone following him or walking in the same alley as him for the past 10 minutes. Is there something wrong with his memory? No one knows. Reza shook his head calmly and tried not to be distracted. He continued walking with anxiety.

 

When Reza wanted to walk home, he found Baiden sitting on the swing and holding the swing handle. His face looked calm, no problem, no joy either. Reza dared to approach Baiden while smiling and waving his hand.

 

“How long have you been here?” Reza asked in curiosity while walking towards him with gentle steps.

 

“Hm? A while,” Baiden answered with a soft smile.

 

“Are you… okay?” Reza asked again to make sure.

 

“Do I look like I'm not okay?” Baiden asked back in curiosity and innocent eyes.

 

“I know, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘤𝘢𝘭𝘮 𝘪𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘢 𝘣𝘪𝘨 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘣𝘭𝘦𝘮,” Reza said softly while patting Baiden’s head. Deep down, he felt worried. “What's wrong? We promised not to hide anything from each other, right?”

 

“One of my members, Fiona… left the organization. I feel sad, but I don't at the same time, and I feel sad again because I feel like a bad person for not being sad,” Baiden answered with a chuckle.

 

“Do you… want me to turn back time and fix everything to make her stay?” Reza asked in determination, he placed his right hand on his chest as he sensed a feeling to be a hero. At least a hero for Baiden.

 

“I’m making peace about it. After all, she is the one who left me and broke the friendship. It’s not my fault. I still have my other members and I can still run the organization without her,” Baiden answered with a sly smile.

 

“Baiden?” Reza called him out of confusion. “T-this is not you…”

 

“What do you mean, Reza?” Baiden asked Reza, his face darkened. He didn't understand what Reza meant. For him, he just tried not to bring up his problem and considered Fiona's departure as a trivial matter. He had made peace with the pain even though his ribs were cracked.

 

“You supposedly care about your friends. You are always the mediator and reconciler. No matter how hard and how tiring it is, I admire you for your hard work in understanding humans and how much empathy you have for the people around you. But now you don't care about other people's feelings anymore,” Reza explained with a heavy heart. He just can’t accept this side of Baiden.

 

“I’m sorry…, but it’s my newest defense. Don't worry, I won’t act like that to you. You are my dearest best friend,” Baiden replied in a sweet tone. He gave Reza a small paper. “Observe this.”

 

Reza received the small paper that Baiden gave him and started to use his ability to observe the meaning of it. It's just a drawing of three people arguing with each other. Reza did a final analysis before finally entering the memory of the art.

 

“Sherly has become a vargan and that bastard killed her!! We must avenge her!!” Fiona yelled in anger and frustration.

 

“It’s not even my fault, I don't know that monster is Sherly. It’s not like I care about her,” Evan replied coldly.

 

“We have to do something! We can't just ignore the mission of hunting vargans just because of the fact that we will end up becoming vargans!!” Fiona shouted again.

 

“Fiona…, calm yourself. We have to respect Baiden’s choice to delay the hunt. We need rest, not only physically, but also mentally,” Rion advised Fiona in a soft tone, trying to be careful and gentle.

 

“For how long do we do nothing?! For how long?!!” Fiona asked again.

 

“Fiona, we are also in school. We have busy schedules, we don't just have to focus on MoF and vargan things,” Ace said gently, trying to make Fiona understand.

 

“You all are always busy with your lives and school! Only MoF can unite us together, if MoF missions keep getting postponed and we rarely meet, we won't have the chance to be together again!” Fiona said in frustration. She doesn't want to understand anyone else. She wanted all everyone’s focus only on her. “You all are evil, I'd better just disappear.”

 

Fiona walked away in anger, sadness, and frustration. Fiona's explosive attitude made Ace and Rion panic. They tried to stop Fiona, but Fiona was already disappointed and left.

 

“No…, what are we supposed to do?” Ace asked in concern about Fiona.

 

“Baiden, do something! You are a leader!” Rion commanded in panicked.

 

“No,” Baiden answered.

 

“Why not?! Please! Don't tiring this more!” Rion demanded, he grabbed Baiden’s shoulders tightly and trying to convice Baiden. But Baiden doesn't express any emotions which is weird. “Baiden, I’ll kill you…”

 

“Try,” Baiden said.

 

Rion stunned in silence. This is not Baiden at all, he’s not supposed to be like this. He is supposed to be a mediator and a peacemaker.

 

“It's up to you whether you want her or not. I have nothing to do with any of this,” Baiden said coldly. His face had a blank expression.

 

Reza blinked and looked at the drawing back. He now understands what is going on. He can just turn back time and fix everything. But it’s up to Baiden if he wants it or not.

 

“I like your ability, maybe I’m making use of that one day,” Baiden said sinisterly.

 

“Baiden…,” Reza mumbled his name softly.

 

“Hey.”

 

They both turned around after hearing that call. The calling voice came from Evan, Baiden's friend and one of the Miracle Saviors. His face was flat and calm. His eyes were fixed on Baiden.

 

“Reza, can you give me a moment?” Baiden asked politely with a smile.

 

“Sure…, Baiden,” Reza replied respectfully. He walked away and left Baiden alone with Evan.

 

“What do you need?” Baiden asked Evan, slowly analyzing his action.

 

“About… MoF…, when do we continue our journey?” Evan asked calmly.

 

“I’m still thinking about it, just be patient,” Baiden answered calmly, trying to convince.

 

“Alright…, take your time. I know you probably stressed out so don't forget to rest,” Evan advised Baiden in a sincere way that is rare to see.

 

“The important thing is... for our MoF, stay or leave. That's all,” Baiden spoke nonchalantly, he is already bullshit about everything and Evan’s arguments.

 

“I leave, I'm tired,” Evan replied coldly, his eyes narrowed towards him. “And you also have to leave if you don't want to be tortured any longer.”

 

Baiden’s eyes widened, not in surprise, but in realization. He sighed. He decided to let Evan leave. There is no reason to force his members to stay. He faced the sky, ignoring Evan's presence. Evan gritted his teeth before started to step away from Baiden.

 

“𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘧 𝘐 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘢 𝘷𝘢𝘳𝘨𝘢𝘯 𝘵𝘰𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘸?” Baiden asked calmly.

 

Evan stopped his steps. His thoughts were in disarray for a moment due to Baiden's absurd question. “𝘐’𝘥 𝘮𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘰𝘯,” Evan answered coldly. He turned around to stare blankly at Baiden. “𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙚𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”

 

Baiden’s face turned blank after hearing Evan’s answer. “Okay…” Baiden nodded in understanding.

 

After a moment, Evan continued walking away, leaving Baiden alone with himself. Of course Reza was still there to watch them. Reza walked hesitantly towards Baiden, but Baiden walked away. He ignored Reza and showed no emotion. It’s clear that Baiden is not angry, he just feels complicated and he doesn't want to use Reza as an outlet.

 

Baiden tried to go inside MoF’s secret HQ. He demanded an explanation and help from Mr. R, the boss and the founder of MoF.

 

“Sherly is dead, Fiona is gone and Evan has also left. Only me, Ace, and Rion were still here. In the end everything will end the same. History will continue to repeat itself. It's always me who's left alone to be the leader,” Baiden said softly in a desperate tone. He hugged himself tightly while wrapping his arms around his body. “I can’t be a leader anymore, I want to stop being a Miracle Savior. What's the point of the title 'Savior' if I can't save my friends?

 

“You were chosen by Orb, Baiden,” Mr. R said calmly.

 

“I didn't ask for this! I didn't ask to be chosen!!” Baiden snapped harshly. His forehead was covered in sweat and his voice was trembling. It felt like his life had been shattered into pieces just because he was chosen for something that a child his age shouldn't have done (He was chosen to be the leader of the MoF at the age of 10).

 

“Don't lie to yourself, Baiden,” Mr. R said softly, he tried his best to calm Baiden from his messy mind. “Do you honestly think this is the right thing to do?”

 

“W-what am I supposed to do as a leader?!” Baiden asked in a frustrated tone as he hugged himself tightly. “You keep talking about how I have the potential to become a hero…”

 

“Yes, and you have so much to do to fix everything,” Mr. R replied. He was so relaxed that he didn't seem empathetic.

 

“But I don't know what I need to do to fix 𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗬𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗡𝗚!!!” Baiden shouted loudly. He gritted his teeth and clenched his both hands. He started walking around aimlessly in a restless manner. “I can't speak in front of many people as boldly as Fiona, I can't be indifferent and calm in a problem like Evan, I can't advise people as wisely as Rion.”

 

“𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗼𝗻𝗹𝘆 𝗯𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗱𝗼 𝗶𝘀 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝗺𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳 𝘄𝗵𝗶𝗰𝗵 𝗻𝗼 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲𝘀.”

 

Reza was in his room with a messed up mind. He didn't understand and didn't expect Baiden's life to be this complicated. Sometimes he worries whether he is being too intrusive.

 

The important thing that Reza should know is just…

 

Baiden is dead. Again. But strangely his body was found under the bridge in the river. From the autopsy results, there were many bullet wounds in his body which caused him to lose a lot of blood. It is thought that he was murdered before being thrown into the river. Reza tries to rewind time until 639 cycles, but he keeps losing track of Baiden and has trouble finding out who killed him. Strange, it's not usual for him to be killed between all the cycles. He usually commits suicide.

 

Even though it is an almost perfect cycle. A perfect cycle that could have kept Baiden alive. Maybe he should get more involved. Reza then started a new cycle again. He tried to go back in time, perhaps to stop Baiden from joining the MoF organization at the age of 10. Maybe the murder had something to do with the MoF that he couldn't trace.

 

“Who are you…?” Baiden asked in confusion, he slowly stepped back from Reza.

 

Right, Baiden still doesn't know Reza and hasn't fulfilled his wish to remember everything. It was painful, but Reza would rather Baiden not remember anything than have to remember all the painful memories.

 

“I know your future, Baiden. If you ever heard about MoF, go away and ignore it. It’ll change your life and destroy your life. Trust me, I’m from the future!” Reza demanded as he grabbed Baiden's shoulders.

 

“I don't know you, creep! Stop touching me!” Baiden scolded him, he quickly pushed Reza away and ran away from him. Reza stood there with complicated and complex thoughts. He can’t let this happen, he can't let Baiden just get away with it. He definitely won't listen to Reza's message.

 

Reza began to make quite thorough preparations. Such as tools such as rope, a sack, duct tape, and dope. He knew this was cruel and evil, but for Baiden's sake, he was willing to do anything. Reza spied on Baiden's movements as usual. How he went to school and how he came home. He couldn't catch Baiden when he was on his way to school because he was being dropped off by his father with a motorbike. Reza also had a little difficulty catching Baiden after school because the school area was crowded and sometimes Baiden's friends walked with him.

 

But when Baiden managed to get home by walking alone, Reza covered Baiden's mouth with a handkerchief that had been sprayed with anesthetic. Baiden put up a momentary struggle and tried to scream before closing his eyes and going limp. He fell asleep in Reza's arms and Reza immediately picked Baiden up.

 

Reza managed to kidnap Baiden and held Baiden captive in his apartment. He didn't want to hurt Baiden so every day he fed Baiden and let Baiden do activities like taking a bath. Baiden certainly feels trust issues and fear around Reza. But since Reza treated Baiden well, Baiden slowly melted with him.

 

“Umm, I want satay with peanut sauce and maybe a little chili sauce too!” Baiden asked cheerfully, his eyes full of hope for Reza. More like a pet to his master.

 

“Alright, I will buy what you wanted. Stay here and don't go anywhere,” Reza replied softly, patting Baiden's head gently.

 

Baiden nodded obediently. “O-okay, I will stay.”

 

Reza smiled. He stood up and got ready to leave his apartment to buy some food. It feels wrong. It feels obsessive and possessive at the same time. He loved Baiden sincerely, he even cared for him. But he can’t let Baiden suffer again. He can’t let Baiden trapped in a corrupt organization that forced labor of teenagers.

 

But all of that was also useless. Because Baiden did not hunt Vargan, did not consume Miracle Stone, and did not make a contract with Orb, Baiden turned into a creature that is difficult to recognize. Baiden turns into a big and tall monster with lots of white and black wings and shining blue eyes, a vargan named Viele Flügel Viel Leid.

 

“Baiden…?” Reza muttered his name softly. He tried to touch Viele Flügel Viel Leid’s head.

 

Viele Flügel Viel Leid didn't respond to Reza. They are just silent, looking at Reza softly with their blue eyes. Their eyes lit up in the semi-darkness of the room. They do not exhibit hostile behavior. Their heart are calm like birds that are very tame or perhaps they already know the person in front of them very well even though they no longer have human souls.

 

“Right, it’s still you. No matter what happens, as long as you are still alive, you are still you,” Reza said calmly. He took off his glasses before hugging Viele Flügel Viel Leid’s body in warmth embrace.

 

Reza feels very calm and happy. He didn't need to see Baiden miserable and tormented anymore. It felt like he was in heaven with the friend he loved so much. He couldn't let go and let this all end. Loneliness with a monster might feel terrifying to most people, but for Reza, this is fantastic. Even this silence is not awkward at all, it is very comfortable. At least until someone forces them to stop all this.

 

A blonde teenager with an ice sword breaks down the door. It was Rion, a member of MoF. Since Baiden in this timeline is not the MoF leader, he is most likely replaced by Rion. He pointed the sword at Reza as he stared at him firmly.

 

“What are you doing with that Vargan?!” Rion asked firmly, his voice was much louder than Rion's in the previous cycle. Reza didn't say anything, he stood in front of Viele Flügel Viel Leid with full determination to protect them. Rion became even more annoyed. He clenched his fists tightly. “Get out of my way! I have to kill them!!”

 

“This one is different, this is my friend!” Reza yelled in a desperate tone. He pushed Rion away. Rion wants to kill Reza so he can kill Viele Flügel Viel Leid but he is not allowed to kill humans. Viele Flügel Viel Leid was furious because Reza was being bullied so he stepped forward to protect Reza and attacked Rion. Instead, Rion took advantage of Viele Flügel Viel Leid's small movements by throwing his ice sword at Viele Flügel Viel Leid. Viele Flügel Viel Leid died just like that and turned into dust.

 

Reza immediately knelt in front of the Viele Flügel Viel Leid, tears flowing from his eyes. He saw Baiden die again. “You’re lucky you’re human or I will kill you too. A Vargan is still a Vargan. I hope you don't tell anyone about this,” Rion said calmly. He removed his ice sword with his magic before walking out casually with a straight face.

 

Rion doesn't know yet that Reza can turn back time by his drawing. Reza decided to continue repeating the experiment where he still kidnapped Baiden and did not let Baiden enter the MoF organization. The result remains the same, Baiden becomes Viele Flügel Viel Leid. Strangely, his behavior can change every cycle, sometimes they are passive, sometimes they are protective of Reza, sometimes they are very aggressive with Reza. Most of them were killed, especially killed by Rion. Rion's version of being the leader is very firm and aggressive, which is natural since he has shouldered very heavy responsibilities equivalent to Baiden when he was the leader of MoF.

 

Reza decided to give up and repeat the cycle again, this time letting everything run its course, just like when he started the Baiden rescue mission. This time he plans to be less of a part of Baiden by not going to the same high school as Baiden. Besides, he already had enough information about Baiden. He focuses the money he has on surviving first. When he first met Baiden, he again got the word that always repeated every cycle. The word ‘Who are you?’ or ‘Have we met before?’ as if it’s a sad reminder that Baiden doesn't remember Baiden's struggles in every cycle every time Reza repeats time. Reza befriends Baiden naturally as he did in the early hundred cycles. He also still uses the name Misbach since Baiden doesn't remember the real Reza.

 

2 years have passed after the 702 cycles, someone knocked on Reza's room door, which made Reza confused. Was it in this cycle that his family found him running away? It's quite scary to imagine their disappointed and upset reactions if they knew Reza had run off to another island while taking their money.

 

A 10 year old boy with black hair and blue eyes stood right in front of Reza's room with a serious face and a frown on his face. “Reza…,” Baiden said softly.

 

“B-Baiden?!” Reza muttered in surprise. He was surprised that Baiden remembered him since he had previously called Reza as Misbach.

 

“I remember everything, you glasses fool. Let me in,” Baiden commanded with a playful tone. Reza opened the door reluctantly, which immediately made Baiden fall towards him.

 

Reza caught Baiden and grabbed his shoulders. “What do you mean you remember everything?” Reza asked in confusion, tilting his head and acting foolish in front of Baiden.

 

“Come on, don't act like you’re the one who doesn't remember anything now. I made the same wishes hundreds of times,” Baiden explained calmly while narrowing his eyes. “Why don't you help me when I’m killed?”

 

“Killed?” Reza asked in confusion.

 

“Yes, killed! You just stayed around the bridge just to see my dead body drowning!” Baiden yelled in irritation then he continued, “Why don't you just wait for me to regain my memory rather than choosing to turn back time and turn me into a vargan?!”

 

Reza's eyes widened in shock. “You even remember all that?!”

 

“Of course! Well, the one who remembered only Baiden who wished to remember everything,” Baiden answered firmly. He stepped away from Reza for some distance.

 

“So… how did you… killed?” Reza asked in confusion, a little in disbelief he finally found a version where Baiden remembered everything.

 

“...By Mr. R,” Baiden answered calmly, slowly taking his hands off from Reza’s shoulders.

 

“Mr. R? Why?” Reza asked again, even more confused.

 

“Listen, there is a conspiracy about MOF and teenage witch apocalypse! Everything seems to have continuity. I tried to ask a lot of questions at the HQ but I ended up getting shot on top of the building. Even when I only asked a little in the next cycle, the same thing happened as if there was something he really wanted to hide,” Baiden explained in a serious tone. He gritted his teeth, then looked at Reza in determination. “I need your help.”

 

“O-Of course! I will help you! Tell me what to do,” Reza replied eagerly, determined to help Baiden this time.

 

“I want to die in peace,” Baiden said in determination. Reza is stunned for a while until he realizes that Baiden's intention is ‘He wants the mystery to be revealed so he can die in peace in his old age’. It almost scares him. Reza also nodded in determination when he finally understood.

 

“So, where do you want to start?” Reza asked in curiosity, considering a plan.

 

“I…I need you to repeat the same thing…No-! I mean… same school with me in high school…,” Baiden replied stutteringly as he doubted his own plan.

 

“And why is that?” Reza asked again to make sure where this plan will go.

 

“Because there is someone I suspect. We still can't do anything this year,” Baiden answered, in determination. He thought for a moment before finally facing Reza again. “Rez, can you speed up time?”

 

“It's beyond my capabilities. I can only manipulate art, you know? Only someone who can manipulate time can do that,” Reza replied sheepishly, he seems hopeless.

 

“Exactly! There must be someone messing up the time without you realizing when you are on your journey! I’m sure of it!” Baiden snapped loudly as he hugged himself and started walking around in anxiety.

 

Reza immediately grabbed Baiden's shoulders to stop him. Baiden stared at Reza in surprise. “Baiden…, calm yourself. I don't understand what you are talking about,” Reza said softly. “Why do you act like you know everything?”

 

Baiden froze for a moment, he looked down then slowly leaned his head to Reza’s shoulder. “Simply, I remember everything... that's all…”

 

Reza can’t help himself when he looks at Baiden being so vulnerable in front of him. Remembering everything. Baiden must always remember his trauma and bad experiences over and over. He felt guilty as he slowly wrapped his arms around Baiden's waist and hugged him. “That must be hard for you, Baiden…”

 

Baiden hesitated for a moment, his hand jerked as he was about to hug Reza back. He smirked for a moment before finally wrapping his hands around Reza’s body.

 

“Rez, You promised to always help me, right? You promised to always be by my side, right? You promised that your only friend is me, right? Right, Rez?” Baiden asked in anxiety. His fingers trembled.

 

“Of course, Baiden. I promised,” Reza answered with a smile. Again, he promised himself to always protect Baiden and keep Baiden from committing suicide. But from now on, he also promised to satisfy Baiden with all his requests.

 

In their embrace, there was only warmth and a sense of relief from all the mental exhaustion they had experienced. It’s so comfortable. They feel safe like this. Reza wanted this moment to last forever, but on the other hand he realized that it was impossible. The only way to make this moment last is to repeat it again.

 

He would do anything, anything for Baiden. Even if he has to sacrifice something. He will eliminate anything that tries to disturb them. Whatever tries to separate them. He didn't realize that art was slowly consuming him. The power of art that should be used to create works, is now rotting in the hands of those obsessed with saving a life that will continue to die.

 

Baiden buried his face to Reza’s chest. Reza was curious what expression Baiden had on his face. Maybe it was the fear and sadness that he wanted to express to Reza.

 

No, it’s not. Baiden grinned slyly and sadistically for his future plans.