Ziel settled onto the plush sofa, turned on the television, and let out a sign of satisfaction. Filled with novel appliances and luxuries, the common room of their accommodation in the Grave was quite a pleasant surprise. Sadly, Ziel had barely got the time to enjoy it.

The past few months were truly intense, even taking into consideration his colorful experience of intensity: six days a week of non-stop reaping corruption, organizing factions, and persuading disagreeable folks.

While Ziel wanted to connect Iteration110 back to the Way as soon as possible, he was also keen on when his weariness reached an unhealthy limit.

So today, finally, Ziel was going to lie down like his Remnant; even a hammer blow to the face would not bring him up.

The comfort from his sinking cushions and the monotone voice from the TV didn't lessen this resolve either.

[You know I could provide a much more emerging experience than this device, right? Inferior two-dimensional information gate is no match for my awesome utilities.]

"I don't need information, Dross. I just need, well, a lullaby, I guess."

[You got a very strange taste in lullabies. And you could also ask me for a nap anytime you like.] Dross exclaimed, but then left Ziel alone.

Well, his Dross would certainly understand that sometimes laziness and solitary were better rest than just sleeping.

Ziel's tranquility was briefly intercepted, however, as Mercy strode into the room before busying herself in the kitchen. He quickly settled back, feeling strangely warm at the unexpected accompany.

Mercy usually went out on her rest days, either to visit her Akura family or to hang out with Miara and Emriss. Unlike Ziel, she had a lot of acquaintances here, not to mention the girl could certainly make friends wherever she went.

Soon, a sweet baking smell started to swirl in the room as Ziel experienced other temptations than just lying down. He persevered nonetheless.

However, when Mercy approached him with a smile and presented him with a vanilla cake,

"Here, a sweet cake to brighten your day."

Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.

Ziel finally rose up, quite willingly.

======

Mercy strode into the common room and was unsurprised to see Ziel lying like a dead man on the sofa. Still, she could understand his tiredness, it was a busy period.

Both of them had to do a lot of missions, many alone, but together for most that involved fighting. Ziel was very dependable on the field, as always.

On the other hand, the man could be sometimes frustrating. Mercy had tried to invite him out during their rest days many times, to visit their acquaintance, mostly hers, or tour some new worlds. Ziel had only obligated her once, on a trip to visit Emriss. The other two times he had gone out, sadly, she had to attribute it to their boss Eithan.

Today though, Mercy also felt like enjoying a full rest.

So she would start the day in her favorite place, the kitchen.

The room was truly exemplary, a perfect blend of functionality and style, with sleek countertops and strange appliances. And thanks to Dross, it didn't take any time for her to use the devices to their full potential and explore all possibilities of heaven's culinary. After all, nothing brings more Joy than delightful flavors.

Mercy placed her cake in front of Ziel as the man rose up. However, she frowned at the screen of the television.

["The Endless News Cycle" program is being broadcasted, a never-ending narration of breaking news, with an emphasis on catastrophes, scandals, and all the significant problems along the Way. No feel-good stories allowed!]

Her Dross explained, confirming her horror. Then he continued:

[However, in ten minutes, the program would be briefly switched into "The Misfortune Hour", a talk show hosted by a perpetually gloomy host who interviews people about their worst experiences, misfortunes, and regrets. Laughter is strictly prohibited.]

Mercy turned to look at Ziel in disgust.

======

Ziel felt innocent as he met Mercy's expression. Dross had informed him of the problem, it was times like this to truly appreciate having a spy in another's head. Ziel might have never understood otherwise.

Furthermore, it was not like he turned to this channel on purpose or focused attentively on the content; the monotone voice and some occasional phrases were just very soothing. Thus, he let Mercy switch to a different program.

[My Little Pony - get ready to giggle as these charming ponies navigate hilarious situations in their whimsical world.] Dross announced, ever so helpful.

Well, at least the vibe would go well with the cake.

======

After successfully resolving the situation with Ziel, Mercy shifted her attention to her plan for the rest of the day – indulging in a good book. The collection of novels here was enormous, and her favorite genre, romance, had a lot of variety.

Today, however, Mercy had accidentally chosen a particularly peculiar one.

The story revolved around a cheerful beauty who found herself entwined with a gloomy beast, eventually transforming him into a charming and handsome prince through the power of love.

As Mercy delved into the pages, she couldn't help but let her thoughts wander. Glancing up, she noticed that Ziel seemed surprisingly engrossed in the show she had picked. With a hint of amusement, Mercy shook her head and returned her gaze to the book.

Yeah, definitely no parallel here.