Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

The Express Crew had once more decided to make a trip back onto The Xianzhou Luofu, after the events of the War Dance they wanted to check in on everybody before making the jump to the eternal and mysterious land of Ampherous. Bailu had also messaged Dan Heng about something of “Great importance!”, and needed him asap before they were to head off, so that was also another reason. 

This time around though they would be bringing someone new along: Sunday. At first he had declined—he was still getting accustomed to this new life and thought going to a new planet would've been too much.  But after some persuading (mostly coming from March 7th) Sunday agreed.

The descension to the Luofu was a swift one. Some of the locals greeted them as they walked by, engaging in small conversations, hugging and shaking hands, plus also running into some familiar faces. 

“Yo nameless! It's been a while!” A boy with long blonde hair tied up in a ponytail, wearing blue and black layered clothing ran up to them with a smile. “What’s the sudden appearance this time?” 

“Hey Yanqing! Good to see you too!” Caelus greeted, the others given their own hellos, “We're just here to see everyone before we head off to our new destination.”  

Yanqing greeted everyone back as well, however his eyes landed on March who seemed to be hiding behind everyone, “Hello to you too Miss March.” He said, tilting a little to the side to spot the pink-haired girl more, “Have you been keeping up with your sword techniques?” 

All the color drained out of March's face when she had been spotted and at the question, because, No, she hasn’t done any sort of sword training since last time visiting. March had assumed the question was gonna be brought up considering last time she was here, everyday Yanqing would ask her about training, sometimes he would ask  when she was in the middle of eating! Even when she left the Luofu he would constantly remind her about training almost once a week! 

So she had a plan in mind for such an occasion, frankly she would’ve liked if they avoided Yanqing although together, but whatever! 

Gaining some confidence, she stood up straight and cleared her throat, “I haven’t been able to do a lot of sword training recently—“ the small glare Yangqing sent her almost made her crumble, “BUT— I have a good reason for it! We’re going to a new planet soon so we’ve been super busy preparing! And also since we’ve last been here we’ve gotten a new addition to the astral family!” She blurted out nudging Sunday forward in front of her who was confused about what was happening.

“Why am I getting dragged—“

“Just go with it! Plus you haven’t introduced yourself once yet!” March interrupted Sunday pushing him even more forward.

Everyone around them sighed and shook their heads in disapproval, but the mention of a new addition seemed to divert Yangqing attention.

March’s planned work!

Yanqing beamed, stretching his hand out to Sunday, “Nice to meet you Mister—?” 

“Sunday,” Sunday replied. Taking the boy's hand, shaking it. “It’s nice to meet you…?”

“The names Yanqing! I’m General Jing yuan's right hand man basically! Is this your first time here on the Luofu?” When Sunday had nodded his smile seemed to have grown bigger. “If ya want I can give you a tour, so you won’t get lost, I know this place like the back of my hand with the job I have!”

 Sunday glance at over to the others for a moment a bit conflicted - it’s nothing personal against Yanqing, it was just being in a new setting like this was a bit too overwhelming for him. He rather stayed with the group for just a while longer before venturing off with someone he was just meeting.

“Thank you for the offer Yanqing, but if it’s alright I would like to stay with the group a bit longer.” Sunday politely declined, “maybe later if you have the time?” 

“Sure thing! Until then…” Yanqing slowly turned his attention back towards March, who during this interaction was slowly trying to sneak away from the group, “and where are you going miss March?” 

Immediately she froze into place, nervously laughing as she tried to look around her surroundings for any type of excuse, “uhh well you know— I was just umm…”

Before she could even utter another word Yanqing grabbed her by the wrist and started dragging her towards where the training grounds were located, “c’mon Miss march a little warm up doesn’t anybody!”

March’s plan did not work! 

“Mannn I was so close…” she whined, accepting her fate at this point.

The rest of the group softly chuckled at the scenery, Caelus waving to all of them mentioning how he would keep an eye on the two (and wanted to poke a little fun at March), before catching up.

Just then a few beeps came from Dan Hengs pocket, fetching out his phone Bailu had been messaging him for the past minute, “I should be meeting up with Lady Bailu now, whatever she needs seems to be urgent.”

“Is it alright if I join you Dan Heng?” Himeko piped up, the dark-haired male simply nodding not one to say no to more people coming along, “what about you two?”

Sunday shifted on his feet a little unsure, while he was curious on who this ‘lady Bailu’ was, a part of him felt like he would be intruding. After all, this person was only expecting Dan Heng not a whole group, he already felt bad about declining Yanqing offer for a tour and he would rather not mess up with another…

Seeming to pick up on Sunday's hesitation, 

Welt placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, “You guys go on ahead, I might just show Sunday the ropes and possibly go grab some lunch. We’ll catch up later though.” 

Himeko nodded, bidding the two farewell as her and Dan Heng walked over in another direction.

The tension in Sunday's shoulders seemed to have ebbed a bit as he released a breath he hadn’t noticed he had been holding, “Thank you Mr. Yang.” Sunday muttered to the older man.

Welt chuckled lightly patting the halovian’s shoulder, “don’t worry about it, I know being in a different world can be a lot so we can take this at your pace.” He said reassuringly, “I know of a few different locations that might interest you, plus some areas to be cautious of. Wanna go take a look?” 

Again Sunday was hesitant but nodded this time, feeling a bit more comfortable with someone he knew to guide him through the unfamiliar scenery. Maybe once he had some footing he would take on Yanqing’s offer about a full tour, but for now a small one would do him some good.

Sunday was still getting used to this ‘taking at your pace’ memo, with the past he had as the head of the oak family that motto was simply impossible. He would constantly have some task to do, sometimes even working a full twenty four hours to ensure everything was done. Now with the life he has and having all this free time it felt so odd that he could just do as he pleases. 

Soon enough the two of them started walking the streets of the Luofo, some of the scenery gave a sense of familiarity to Sunday. Seeing the livelihood of the locals buying from other sellers, children running around the bridges, friends gathering for a meal after not seeing each other in a while, struck a melancholy feeling. 

Nevertheless, Xianzhou Luofu was a spectacular place, seeing all the different architecture, technology, people, and more. Sunday couldn’t lie and say he wasn’t flabbergasted with some of the things Welt had shown him. 

Aurum alley was one of those said places, seeing how lively it was here with different vendors of all sorts, and to hear that Caelus was a major factor on how this place got to where it is now was truly remarkable. 

“He really did all of this?” Sunday gasped still in awe by it all.

A grin formed on Welts face as they walked, nodding, “it wasn’t only him that got Aurum valley to where it’s at now, it took a lot of collaboration and talking to different sources, but if it weren’t for him kicking things up this place wouldn’t have the same spark it does now.” He informed as ambered eyes looked over the scenes infront of him fondly. 

Sunday already knew the trailblazer was skilled with many different fields, but his respect for Caelus just grew a little more. 

As they walked Sunday wing twitched as he heard from a nearby alley someone sounded like they were in  distress. He turned his gaze to where the noise was coming from, inside the alley he saw an elven man scratching the back of his head - in front of him a tower of boxes.

“Mr. Yang, there seems to be a man over this who could use some assistance,” Sunday ask pointing in the directions, “sound we go lend a hand?”

 Welt adjusting his glasses to get a clearer look, “I don’t see why not; let's go ask and see what we can do.” 

The two of them approach the elven male, Welt clearing his throat to catch the man’s attention, “good afternoon, my companion here noticed you look like you had your hands full and wondered if you maybe needed some assistance?”

The elven man turned to face the both of them, relief washing over his features as he currently placed the box he was holding down, “That would be great! Some of my employees are running late but I gotta get these boxes to my ship as soon as possible.” He motioned to the towering boxes, “so any extra help will take a load off me thank you!” 

Welt waved him off, “no need for thanks, as part of the nameless it’s our job to help out whoever may need it. Where is your ship located?” 

The man pointed down deeper into the alleyway, “just a bit further down here and to the right, I already have some loaded, thankfully the boxes aren’t too heavy except for the bottom ones.” Taking in all that information Welt and Sunday got to work with taking one box to where the ship was and loading it onto it.

Luckily with the extra hands the three of them managed to load the smaller boxes in record time. Though after a few trips of carrying the boxes back and forth Welt had to sit down for a bit, the ache in the man’s knees became a little more unbearable.

“Are you sure you’re ok Mr. yang?” Sunday hands hovered around the older male, unsure of what to do or help.

“Yes I’m ok,” he huffed, steadying himself with the usage of his cane, "I just need a little break that’s all. My body isn’t what it used to be.” He chuckled lightly, although it didn’t seem to calm Sunday's nerves. 

Right, Welt had to remember Sunday wasn’t one for jokes.

He reached up his hand towards Sunday, giving it a small squeeze, “I promise Sunday I’m ok. I would tell you otherwise if I wasn’t.” Welt said sincerely this time, seemingly doing the trick to have Sunday back up a bit, “I just need to sit for a moment, I’ll continue helping you and Zhen after a bit of rest.” 

Sunday had one more look up and down at Welt before nodding, returning down the alleyway where Zhen and the remaining boxes were. 

Just like he had promised, Welt only sat for maybe less than a minute before standing back up again, his knees feeling slightly better but still had to use his cane as support. 

Though as he stood there was some scuffling coming from behind him. Curious Welt turned his gaze towards the noise, “Hello?” He called out only to be met with nothing in return.

Possibly just some of the buildings settling or a critter of—

CRACK!

Something hard came rushing at Welt, colliding with his skull before he could react. His body crumbled to the ground, black spots filling his vision, as blood started to pour from his head, barely managing to keep conscious.

Figures started to pop into view, he counted at least five of them, one holding what seemed like a crowbar in their grasp - guessing that’s what he was hit with. 

Not good, where did these people come from!? 

“This isn't the guy We’er looking for, is it?” One of the attackers said from above, sounding slightly muddle to Welts ears, “seems too old.” 

“Of course it’s not him dumbass!” Another one hiss from beside, “he’s probably still with Zhen, so hurry up and get ready before they get back!” 

Everything felt so hazy to Welt, he tried his best trying to gather what he could in his half conscious state. Only barely catching on that they were after Sunday, why were they after Sunday? What could they want from him? So many things his pounding head couldn’t handle all at once.

The one thing he did need to do was to get  Sunday away from these people.

Try as he might, he tried to sit up, despite his limbs trembling, and the quickly forming migraine seemed to get worse as he did. 

Before he could even get halfway up, another person Welt didn’t even realize was behind him had pressed their foot onto his back, forcing him back onto the ground.

“I would stay down if you know what’s good for you old man.” The person spat down at him pressing the foot harsher into Welt’s back.

Cane, where was his—

“Thank you again for all the help Mr. Sunday! Without you and Mr. Yang's help this probably would’ve taken me forever!” Zhen's voice echoed down the alleyway.

No. 

“It’s no problem at all Mr. Zhen. It’s the least we could’ve done, you looked like you could've used—” Sunday replied walking out from the alley and immediately noticing the new figures in this space, “The extra help…?” 

No, no.

Sunday looked confused, when did all these other people get here? Were these the employees Zhen had mentioned? And where was…

“S…Sunday…” A familiar strained voice spoke to the side of him, immediately alerting Sunday.

Was that—!?

There on the ground with a person leaning over was Welt. He barely looked like he could keep his eyes open, trying to get the other person off him, and was that blood !?  

“Sunday run…!” 

“Mr. Yang!” Sunday shouted, but before he could react a figure popped up behind him, swinging to the side with the same blunt object they had hit Welt with.

CRACK! 

Sunday’s body crumbled to the ground, the last thing he saw was a blob of brown and grey trying to reach for him before everything descended into darkness.

Welt watched in horror the fall of Sunday, blood starting to seep through his silver locks, and his left wing…

They broke his wing. No, no, no, no oh aeons they broke his wing—

“Sunday…! Sunday!” Welt shouted, panic and rage boiling in him as he tried to crawl up from the person stepping even more harshly onto him.

“This is the guy, he checks off the description the boss gave us. Let's get moving before someone notices.” One of the attacks spoke, picking up Sunday's unconscious body.

“What about gramps over there? Should we take him with us?” The one holding a crowbar pointed at welts figure.

“Nah, too much of a hassle. Plus the boss only said to nab bird brain here, just knock him out this time and stuff him somewhere or something.” The man said walking over to the ship and tossing Sunday inside it.

The man with the crowbar once more approached welt, raising the crowbar up, “nighty night gramps.” They lastly said before swinging it downwards.

This time around Welt couldn’t keep himself awake after the second swing, darkness finally consumed him. The last thing he remembered was of Sunday still body with a color he hoped never to see on that white suit of his stained with red.

Chapter Text

Nearly half the day passed by since everybody split off in pairs, as dusks started to set throughout the Luofu everyone gradually came back together.

Everyone minus Welt and Sunday. 

March whined as she rubbed her lower back, “where are those two?! I’m starvingggg!” She groaned, after a whole day worth of training and only having a light lunch in between she’s worked up an appetite. 

Himeko had stated they should wait, since it was Sunday's first time here she wanted to take them all out to one of her favorite restaurants here. But it had been an hour since she first said that and there had been no show.

Both her and Dan Heng have been trying to get a hold of either one of them since their trip with the dragon lady was pretty short. All she needed was to test out a new medication that was for Vidyadhara and Dan Heng was the first person that came to mind.

At first they brushed it off saying that Welt could be having his long monologues as he explains different histories with Sunday about the Luofu, or that the two of them were merely enjoying the peace of sightseeing. 

But now there was a slight concern that neither one of them had yet to text back. 

“This isn’t like Welt to not respond to any of my texts or calls…he’s usually pretty fast with responding.” Himeko muttered, shifting on her feet more unease settling into her as time passed.

Dan Heng shook his head, “Same with Sunday, he’s usually pretty quick to respond - I remember him mentioning one time he doesn’t like to keep people waiting when it comes to texting. So he usually responds back in a timely manner.” He said glancing down at his phone and the messages sent, not one had even been read. 

On the sidelines Caelus shrugged, “could their phones maybe died? Sunny writes in that journal so he could've taken photos to put some in it?That can drain some battery power.” He tried to reason; though even that seemed far fetched from an explanation because Welt would always make sure to keep his phone charged in case of emergency.

“Could they’ve gotten lost in an area that has no signal? Not like the first time that’s happened?” March jumped in, her own worry starting to sweep away her rumbling belly. 

Everyone hummed trying to think, because while that was true that had been during the stellaron disaster at the Loufu. Having it happened now seemed not likely but not completely off the table.

Even still Welt had a decent sense of direction, unless he lost his glasses at some point he should still have been able to direct the two of them back to where the signal was…and something was still not adding up.

The feeling in Himeko sank a bit more, clearing her throat she looked to the group, “They probably didn’t travel too far, let’s look around and see if we can find them.” She promoted, taking a deep breath to steel her nerves, “Maybe March is right, maybe they wandered into an area with no signal. It wouldn’t hurt to look.” 

Everyone nodded, ultimately deciding to stick together while they looked for their two other companions. Not wanting to risk anyone else getting lost, or possibly worse. 

During their search they had asked anyone passing by if they’d spotted either Welt or Sunday. A majority of the people they asked said no, some mentioning they spotted them in some venues, others pointing in the direction they saw them heading to.

“Oh yeah I saw those two!” A foxian woman exclaimed, “I think they were heading in the direction of Aurum Valley.”

Himeko nodded, taking in the information, now everything they theorized definitely not adding up, “Thank you, we greatly appreciate it.”

“Of course! Hope you're able to find them.” 

Before they started making their way over, all of their phones started going off at the same time. Quickly they fished out their phones, but it wasn’t who they were hoping was texting them.

It was Bailu.

And all the color in their faces faded away reading the messages.

~~~~~~~~~~

Group chat:

Bailu: ASTRAL GANG COME QUICKLY TO THE ALCHEMY COMMISION!!!!!

Bailu: IT'S ABOUT MR. YANG!!!!! HES INJURED!!!

Bailu: TOO MUCH TO EXPLAIN OVER TEXT SO PLEASE GET HERE ASAP!!! 

~~~~~~~~~

Wasting no time the four of them rushed straight towards the Alchemy commission. Their hearts were pounding as all sorts of thoughts started swimming in their heads.

What happened? Who could've hurt Welt? How bad were his injuries? Did they have a motive? Was Sunday ok? Bailu didn’t mention anything about him, where was Sunday? 

It took them longer to arrive at the clinic than they liked, but eventually they made it. Lingsha seemed to have been waiting for their arrival as she let out a breath.

“Good you're here, follow me.” She announced, guiding the group deeper into the clinic.

“How bad are his injuries?” Himeko asked, panic clear in her voice.

“There’s no way to sugar coat it, Mr. Yang sustained two injuries to his head - it seemed someone had hit him with an object enough to break skin.” Lingsha explained as they walked down the corridors, making a left turn, “The dragon lady was able to stabilize his injuries to the best of her abilities.”

“But…?” March asked, her own fear showing.

“ But he still had to get stitches where the injuries are at, he’s also suffering from a severe concussion, and all in all is in critical condition.” She paused in front of a door, turning to all of them before continuing, “I will also note that he may remain unconscious for a while, he was lucky he was found or this could probably have been a lot worse.” 

Everyone nodded, taking in what Lingsha had informed all of them, a slight chill going down their spine at the last part. 

Slowly she pushed the door open, everyone filing in one by one. 

On the bed laid Welt yang, and the sight alone made them all queasy. The whole top part of his head was wrapped in bandages, glasses gone, and a few bruises blooming on other parts of his face.

Beside him was Bailu, her hand resting on top of Yang's head using her power to ease the pain. It made their stomach form into knots trying to imagine what Welt looked like without the bandages or without Bailu’s help…

Once she noticed the others' arrival Bailu seemed to relax a little more, letting out a sigh of relief, “I’m so glad you are all here, as soon as he arrived I thought to contact you immediately.” 

Dan Heng ripped his gaze away from Welt towards Bailu, “do you have information on what happened?” the young girl shrugged her shoulders in response, as she stepped away from Welt.

“Bits and pieces. From what I was giving some people were clearing out the space for their ship and while moving some boxes…” Bailu mumbled, her eyes gazing over to welt for a moment before looking back to Dan Heng, “They found Mr. Yang stuffed in between the crates and—“

“….su…day…” Everyone's attention snapped back to welt as the man mumbled in his sleep.

“There he goes again talking in his sleep, he keeps mumbling about ‘Sunday’, ‘Sunday gone’, or something like that!” Bailu huff crossing her arms, “I can’t make any sense of it or how a day would connect to any of this but every once in a while….” 

The tension in the room seemed to grow thicker at the mention of that, all of their faces grew dark. Sweat dripped down Bailus' forehead confused on why they could be reacting this way. 

“Lady Bailu,” Caelus spoke, his tone flat and body still, “was there another man with Mr. Yang? Silver hair, halo, has wings on his head?”

The description didn’t ring any bells, “No, Mr. Yang was the only person to be brought in…I haven’t heard or seen anything about a second person.” She confessed, slowly starting to connect the dots and now her stomach was starting to form knots.

No one uttered a word for a solid minute. Letting everything sink in from this new information.

What happened to Sunday? Was he taken? Who took him? Why? Or was it worse…

“Lady Bailu, where was Welt found?” This time it was Himeko who asked, “can you or someone take us there?” 

Quickly getting to work Bailu had asked Lingsha to stay with Welt for the meantime. Guiding everyone to where the location was at, a few cloud knights were already stationed preventing any nosy locals from going any further inside. 

As soon as they spotted them however the two guards parted, almost seeming to have expected the astral express crew to show up - not saying anything they all headed in. Bracing themselves of what was to come. 

Past the little alleyway part the five of them walked to a more spacious area - in there was more Cloud Knight situated in different spots, examining the surrounding. There were also two familiar figures on the scene. 

One was Yangqing, seeming to be picking something up, and not too far from him was the one and only General Jing Yuan. They were a little shocked to see the General here, considering he was usually busy with work, but maybe it shouldn't be that shocking since they were pretty close allies. 

“General Jing Yuan?” Dan Heng called out as the group approached the white hair male. 

The expression the General held was grim, with a slight hint of anger, but hearing and seeing the others made him loosen up a bit as he turned their attention towards them, “Ah, my friends - I assumed you would show up at some point so I had inform the Cloud knights in advance to your arrival.” his tone held an authority and seriousness to it as he glance at each of them, “I'm guessing you all went to visit Mr. Yang? How is he?”

They all nodded grimmedly, march being the one to speak up, “Still out cold…I hope he wakes up soon he looks really bad…” She mumbled rubbing her arm, Himeking placed a hand on her shoulder giving it a small squeeze. 

Silence over took them as they all really could feel the severity of this situation…speaking of which.

“General Jing yuan, have you or any of the other cloud knights found another man?” Himeko spoke, “There was another person with Welt, a halovian male, about Dan Hengs height, the two of them were exploring the Luofu together because it was Sunday's first time here.”  

The general's eyes seemed to widen a little at this, shaking his head and glancing back at Yangqing, “No we haven’t…though now that you mention it we did find some items, could you identify if they belonged to Mr. Sunday?” when they all agreed Jing yuan waved Yangqing over. 

In the blonde's hand he held three items, one a blue and golden journal, a cracked phone, and then…the third item - which made all the stomachs drop and march gasp - was a few white feathers speckled with blood held inside of a bag. 

“...All of these belong to Sunday.” Caelus' voice held a heavy weight to it, reaching out and grabbing the bag of bloodied feathers. 

“What…what do we do?” March sounded horrified by the new realisation that Sunday was just gone without any ideas on where he could be.

The hand Himeko placed on March’s shoulder squeezed once more, “Find him. We’re gonna find him.” she curtly said, casting her gaze over to Jing Yuan who nodded in return. 

Seeing now the full picture on what happened, whoever took Sunday obviously has an ulterior motive against him. They needed to find him as soon as possible…

Before the worst could happen. 

Chapter Text

“Mama, can you tell me a story?” A young winged boy asked, sitting up in his bed.

The elegant winged woman chuckled light heartedly, “another story? My son, it's already past your bedtime. You really ought to get some shut eye.” She said gliding over to the bed sitting at the edge of it.

The winged boy pouted, “pleasssee? Just one more? I promise after that I’ll go right to sleep!” The boy promised, using his pleasing eyes which was untimely the elegant winged woman’s downfall.

“Alright, alright, you know I can never say no to that face.” She smiled lightly, pinching the boy's cheek who giggled in reply, “what story would you like to hear?”

The winged boy hummed trying to think of one, before his face lit up, “The one about the littlest star! That’s one of my favorites!” 

The woman nodded, finding a space next to her son, wrapping an arm around him, “Alright the littlest star it is.” She cleared her throat before continuing, “once upon a time in the vast universe of space there was a—“

SPLASH!

Sunday eyes shot open, a gasp leaving - or trying to leave - his lips when ice cold water hit his back. 

“Oi time to wake up bird brain.” A deep voice called behind him.

He winced when the rush of waking up ebbed away replacing with pain stemming from his head, the slight stinging coming from his arms, and more horrifyingly his left wing. 

The smell of iron and mildew overwhelmed him trying to gain his bearings.

What happened? The last thing I can recall was…

Slowly everything was starting to piece together again, Welt was showing Sunday around the Luofu, then they were helping out a man with crates, then Welt was on the ground with blood covering his face, and then…

Panic started to seep in him as full realization came to Sunday, looking down at himself he noticed that half of his clothes were gone - only leaving him in his tank top and pants, they even took off his shoes. While looking he saw that his legs had been tied, similar to his arms as he noticed the slight pain that was starting to form in his shoulders, every time he moved the bristle from the ropes would burn into his skin. 

There was also a clothed gag covering his mouth, preventing any words or protest from escaping him. 

Where am I? Who are these people? What did they want? Everything hurts, hurts, hurts–

Sunday didn’t even realize his breathing had picked up until a harsh kick was sent to his ribs, knocking him onto his back leaving a bit breathless, “Stop squirming, you're only gonna make things worse for yourself.” A man spat from above, sending another kick for good measure causing Sunday to grunt, “Capturing you was already a pain in the ass as is, you withering around like a fish isn’t gonna do much for you.” 

Sunday curled in on himself to protect little what he could, with his arms tied behind his back he couldn’t bring them up to block the blows, and with his mouth block he couldn’t use the odes of harmony to assist him in any way. 

Useless, weak, stupid - how could you let yourself get caught!? Now look at yourself, being treated as a ragdoll be glad none of the others—

More realization came on Sunday that he wasn’t alone when his captors took him and a knot began to form as the panic only built and built. 

Where was Mr. Yang?

Craning his neck, golden eyes looked around for another figure layered in dark clothing. While looking Sunday was also able to gather where he was currently at, boxes lined up on the walls, a balcony to a second story, and a few windows that were blocked by planks. 

Collecting that Sunday assumed he may either be inside of a warehouse of some sorts or a shipment facility.

Either or one thing Sunday hadn't spot was Welt, while that brought him some relief that Welt wasn’t here to witness this or be inflicted on more pain…there was worry that he was still back there alone and bleeding . 

What if nobody found him? How long had it been since he had been taken? Was it hours? Days? What if Welt was already—

Sunday shook his head, wincing a bit as pain shot from both his head and left wing. 

my wing; it hurts, they broke it, not again, please not again—

“So are we positive this is the right guy?” A woman asked from behind him, “I don't want the boss to get pissed because you couldn’t find the right guy.” 

A masked man in front of Sunday groaned, shaking his head, “for the hundredth time yes from what the boss gave us this guy fits the description.” The masked man walked over to Sunday, tugging on his left wing - not caring about the few cracks and a painful muffled cry Sunday let out, “two piercings on his left wing, not a lot of halovians are stupid enough to do that. Not to mention the eyes on his halo.” The man flicked the metal objected being mindful of the spikes around it.

The woman lifted her hands up in defeat, “alright, alight - I just wanna make sure, you know how the boss gets when he’s pissed off.” Humming casting a glance down on Sunday, “so when is the boss supposed to get here?”

The masked man who was holding on Sunday's wing let go, dropping his head back onto the cold ground leaving the halovian dazed, “said little under an hour, he had something last minute.”

Even in his daze state Sunday mind continued to wonder, questioning everything that was happening with the new information gathered.

What could he possibly want from me to go to these lengths? Was it someone from my past? Or perhaps someone from fathers? Or was it someone completely new? What did this boss plan on doing to me? …does he plan to kill me? 

Sunday couldn’t help but think of the worst, especially one for such events. It wouldn’t be the first time someone tried to take him out because of his status, there were a lot of enemies Gopherwood had and Sunday was also dragged into that mess when he became Bronze Melodia.  Especially now after all the events in Penacony and his downfall…it wouldn’t surprise him if he had more enemies now. 

That thought alone made him more anxious and needed to find a way out of this mess fast.  

———————

Half an hour had passed since Sunday first woke up, despite his pounding head, shivering bruised body, and tied up limbs he did try to figure a way out of this.

Whenever the three people who were around him were chatting amongst themselves about something, Sunday would try anyway to get the gag off. If he were to get that off then he can use the odes of harmony against these people.

So he tried to rub his head against his shoulder, or against the ground to get the fabric off. At one point Sunday managed to get it loose enough that he could use his tongue to push out the rest.

But then somehow from above there was a person he didn’t even know was there spotted him and alerted the others about what he was doing. Which ended up with them only tightening the gag around his face, and getting two kicks in the ribs - pretty sure one of them broke. 

After his failed attempt they took shifts with keeping a closer eye on Sunday to ensure he wouldn’t do something like that again. 

That was until the doors busted open, on the other side revealed an humanoid man with dark blue slick back hair, toned skin, well attired suit, with metallic jewelry that looked like claws on his fingertips, and an turquoise with hints of purple amulet around the man’s neck.

“Sorry for the delay.” The man’s deep voice echoed throughout the room, taking a step forward, his piercing Amber eyes looking down at Sunday making a shiver go down his spine, “I see you’ve finally caught what I’ve paid you all to catch.”

The looming figure stalked over to Sunday, the strong smell of smoke overtaking his senses making a wave of nausea surface. 

The figure crouched down in front of Sunday, one of his clawed fingers coming up and traced the tip underneath Sunday's eye - leaving a small line in its wake, “Hello little bird, it’s so nice to meet you again.” The man grinned, his teeth sharp, similar to a canine, “do you remember me?” 

Sunday looked into those Amber eyes, they glinted with hate in them, something he had seen many times before being the previous head of the family. But this was a different type of look, one that gave genuine fear in Sunday. Though he tried not to show it, pushing down that fear as best as he could, m aybe it was because of the situation he was in, his body ached, his head was pounding still, and all in all felt utterly useless. 

Alarm bells kept ringing in his head that he needed to get away  or escape but he simple couldn't at least not right now. 

No Sunday did not remember who this was, he’s met a lot of people in his past, but each one of them he remembered something distinctive about them. This man didn’t check anything off and that worried him even more because why couldn't he remember.

A low chuckle left the man’s mouth, seeing the conflicted expression and the very small panic on the halovians face, “Judging how your looking at me I assume not. I can’t blame you, it has been a long time and I’ve changed a lot about myself.” 

The finger that was still pointed at Sunday's face slowly began to move downwards, “It’s been a few years since I last saw you. Probably around 6 years.” The man spoke as his hand kept trailing down, stopping at Sunday's neck.

The whole hand engulfed the small neck, the edges of the metal claws just barely grazing the skin. Sunday's body tensed slightly, trying his best to keep his composure, trying his best not to panic because that’s what they wanted . 

Sunday knew about these situations, he knew that showing fear or any of that sorts would make this situation worse. He had to keep his composure, despite the claws that were lightly touching his skin knowing one movement from them could be—

No, no he couldn’t think like that. Keep it together. 

“My hair was a lighter color, my frame was different, so on and so forth. I came to Penacony to discuss a business deal with you and your father .” He hissed at that last part, the claws sinking into Sunday's neck just enough to draw blood, “It was a good offer, a tool that could make Penacony even better than it was before!”

A wince left Sunday as the claws sank deeper as the man’s palm also added pressure, choking him.

“But no, no instead you and your father made a complete fool out of me!” The man shouted, his hand fully tightening around Sunday's throat, choking the halovian even more, “Saying that it was the most ridiculous thing you’ve ever heard! Laughing at me, mocking me !” 

The man picked Sunday up by his throat, the winged man struggled in his bindings trying everything to get out of the grasp.

Can’t breathe, can’t breathe, can’t breathe. 

“Because of your and your fathers reviews I got turned down by every deal I had before!” He growled, throwing Sunday across the room.

The impact on the ground left Sunday gasping as the wind was knocked out of him, pain shooting up from his back, and black spots once more flooded his vision. 

The man didn’t relent; he staggered to where Sunday laid, his fist clenching with rage, “Then I was left with nothing! I went bankrupt, lost my house, lost everything! ” He yelled, sending a kick to Sunday face - instantly breaking his nose.

A small muffled cry left Sunday as blood rushed out from his nostrils, staining the cloth that was around his mouth. 

Another kick, this time sent to his stomach - making Sunday wheeze, “Because of you I had to start from zero, building everything up again from square one, including myself .” The claws on the man’s fingers glinted in the dull light, before they rushed downwards digging into Sunday shoulders.

This time Sunday screamed into the gag, tears gathering at the corners of his eyes.

It hurts, it hurts, it hurts. 

Body shaking, hyperventilating, and eyes squeezed shut Sunday tried to endure. He’s used to pain, he’s dealt with it before, he could handle this too. 

Maybe. 

It didn’t matter if his whole body ached, blood now trailing down his body, spots covering half his vision, and words started to sound muddled. He could endure it, he had to endure it. 

The claws dug deeper into Sunday's shoulders before hoisting him up and slamming into a wall. 

Another cry left him, a few tears rolling down his cheeks barely able to control them. 

The man leaned forward, his mouth against Sunday's ear, “You would know what’s that like wouldn’t you little bird?” He whispered, a menacing smile creeping onto his features, “after all you took quite a fall , and now became a fugitive. One of which is very highly sought out of .” 

To that Sunday's eyes widened, his breath catching in his throat. 

No, no, no, no. 

Seeing the reaction made a chuckle escape the man’s lips, “Are the dots starting to connect? I’m here to take you home , little bird. There’s a very generous reward about bringing you back and well…” another round of chuckles leaves him, “I’m not one to say no to that.”

At this point Sunday's mind went static, because he knows what will happen if he goes back to Penaconey. As soon as he steps back he’s going to be put in that cell again, be put in those chains, before ultimately they’ll…

They’ll execute him. 

This time there would be no second chances, Jade would not make a deal with him again. Once he went back it was over, Sunday knew it would be over and there would be nothing to save him again.

“But before I do,” he resumed, leaning back his Amber eyes gazing into unfocused golden ones, “I’m going to have some fun with you. A little payback for everything you put me through.” 

Before Sunday is given anytime to register once more he tosses across the room. This time it was his head hitting the ground first.

The black spots clouded his entire vision before finally he couldn’t stay awake any longer.

The last thing his brain could muster was a simple thought.

Please hurry…

Chapter Text

In the clinic Himeko stood next to Welt's bed, after finding their discoveries about Sunday’s kidnapping they all needed to set a course of action quickly. 

For a while they all struggled to figure out how to find Sunday, the Loufu was a big ship, the halovian could've been anywhere at this point.

If he’s still on the ship. 

Quickly she shook her head, no, no she couldn’t think like that. Sunday still had to be on the ship, he just had to be…

Luckily Caelus knew of a way to find him, from a previous search for Kafka they knew Diting was probably their best option for finding Sunday. One sniff of Sunday's belongings and Diting would be able to sniff him out.

Currently the trio is going to the Artisanship commission to talk to someone there about borrowing one. While Jing yuan and Yanqing gather some cloud knights to assist them, because there was a good guess that there were more than a few people behind this.

Himeko during all of this decided to take a quick check in on welt, she knew he was probably still asleep. But she couldn’t help still worry, her anxiety was still high with everything that has been happening.

Between welt injuries, Sundays disappearance, why all of this was happening when this was supposed to be a peaceful trip. Was a lot to juggle all at once, her stomach constantly turning from it all.

It was Sunday's first time on a new planet when he was just getting accustomed to everything. 

And now…this.

A part of her wanted to laugh, at how absurd this all was, at how she shouldn’t be surprised because trailblazing has all types of dangers to this style of life.

But still…

Taking a deep breath she couldn’t get caught up with all that now, there were more urgent matters that needed to be taken care of. 

With one final glance at Welt she turned on her heel starting to make her way out of the room. 

Just then a low groan came from behind her, immediately making her stop in place. Slowly Himeko turned her head back, and low and behold those Amber eyes were open even just a crack. 

From the bed Welt woke up in a very slow state, his ears ringing, vision blurry, and there was a faint pain lingering in his skull. 

At first he assumed it was another migraine, wouldn’t be the first time, but as welt brought his hand up to rub his forehead there was something on there he wasn’t expecting. 

Bandages.

My migraines can get bad but not ‘this’ bad.

Starting to really wake up now, Welt also noticed that he was in fact not in the express like original thought. For instance some sun rays were peeking in the room he was currently at which definitely couldn’t happen in the express.

What happened….I can’t recall anything…

“Welt?” A soft familiar voice called out to him, pulling out of his muddle thoughts.

Another groan slipped past his lips as his eyes wandered over to the voice, there stood a woman with long red hair, a white dress, and a black coat with golden accents on it.

Even if he was seeing double Welt could always pinpoint who this was.

“Himeko…?” He grunted, sitting up slightly cradling his head into the palm of his hand.

Quickly Himeko settled next to Welts bed, gently placing a hand on his shoulder, “easy, don’t get up too quickly.” She said gently, assisting him the rest of the way sitting up, “you're suffering from a concussion right now, so things may make you easily dizzy, are you dealing with any pain?” 

So many questions were piling in Welt's brain hearing that, how did he get a concussion? What even happened to him? Everything felt so foggy, the last thing he recalled was stepping onto the Loufu and meeting up with Yanqing.

Everything beyond that was fuzzy…

“Welt?” Himeko asked again, a hint of concern in her voice.

“Sorry, I got a little caught up in my head hah.” Welt pinch the bridge of his nose, trying to collect his thoughts, “but no, there’s only a faint pain but I can manage, but how in the aeons did I get a concussion?” 

Himeko's breath halts for a moment, the hand on Welt's shoulder squeezes slightly, “Welt, what’s the last thing you remembered?” 

At first nothing was said, Welt genuinely trying to remember the last events before the fog. They went on the Loufu because they wanted to see some old friends and also Bailu wanted to talk to Dang Heng, then they saw Yanqing - who dragged march away for training…and then Welt offered Sunday a small tour.

Anything beyond that he barely could recall.

And seeing how it was earlier in the afternoon when that happened, to it almost being dusk now was very concerning. 

“The last thing I can recall was talking to Yanqing for a bit, then we all split ways and I was going to give Sunday a tour…” Welt mumbled, his stomach starting to sink- something felt wrong about this, but he couldn’t point out what , “Everything else is a bit foggy beyond that…Why?”

Himeko shouldn’t have been surprised, considering that Welt had to get stitches from the blows to his head. A little memory loss seemed understandable, meaning this next part was not going to be easy to explain to him. 

Taking a deep breath she collected one of Welts' hands, “I don’t know all the details, but something…happened.” She said cautiously, allowing Welt to prepare himself a little, “While you were showing Sunday around, I don’t know who or why yet, but someone ambushed the two of you.” 

Welt’s body tensed, his hand tightening around Himeko’s. While she explained, small flashes of images of the missing parts slowly started to appear.

It was of him and Sunday were going to Aurum Valley, then they were helping a man with boxes, then he had to take a break, and then…

“Where’s Sunday?” He asked before Himeko could utter another word, panic arising, “Himeko, where is Sunday?” 

The memories of him getting hit in the head, surrounded by blurry faces, and then Sunday…

Blood seeped into his white suit, his left wing in disarray, as Welt had watched Sunday crumble onto the ground lifeless. 

The red hair bit her lower lip, placing her other hand on top of welts, hearing the desperation in his voice made her feel sick, hearing him sound like that was a rarity, “He…He was taken by those people who ambushed the two of you.”

The panic that formed in Welt only grew more and even more questions were starting to pile up. 

“But We're going to get him back, the others are talking to someone from the Artisanship commission to borrow Diting to help us.” She quickly reassured, some of the tension in welts shoulders lessened a bit, “General Jing Yuan will also be helping us, when word got around what happened to you he wanted to aid in anyway he could.” 

Welt didn’t say anything at first, while there was some relief knowing they had a plan in mind to get Sunday back, the guilt and shame didn’t ebbed away. 

A part of him blamed himself for Sunday  being captured and Aeons knows what could be happening to him now. If he was only quicker and stronger enough maybe none of this would be happening. But he wasn’t, and now he was only thinking the worst that could be happening to his bo— to Sunday. 

“Let me assist.” Welt said firmly, looking up to Himeko who was taken aback.

“…what?” she uttered a little speechless, “Welt I don’t think that’s a good idea, the injury you have isn’t just your average scrap if—“

The hand around Himeko tightened, “ Please Himeko,” he pleaded, voice wavering a bit, “I couldn’t stop them from taking Sunday, it was my fault he got captured, I couldn’t protect him I need—“

“Welt.” Himeko spoke before he could utter another word out holding some authority to it, as she placed her other hand on the man’s cheek, “what happened is in no circumstances your fault, you couldn’t have known that was going to happen.” 

She knew Welt held a close bond with Sunday, similar to the other youngsters that were on the express while he would never say it out loud Himeko knew Welt saw them as their kids. They took care of them, looked after their well being, and so much more - they were all like a family, Sunday being a new addition to it. 

 Himeko also knew times like these it was hard not to blame oneself, even when it was out of their control. There were many points where the others had been in danger and himeko had blamed herself many times that she couldn’t do more for them, even though Welt had comforted her time after time before when she had doubts.

“I know you want to help, I understand that you're worried about him, but you have to also keep in mind you have a severe concussion.” She continued gently, “your well being needs to come first, I promise you we will do everything to get him back.”

“But—“

“I’m saying this as your friend , we could’ve…” she bit her lower lip fighting back the tears that threaten to form, “we could've lost you if it weren’t for those people finding you…I don’t want to risk anything, so please trust us.” 

Welt looked into those honey amber eyes, his heart sinking seeing how they glisten with tears. It was a rare sight to ever see himeko cry, only in the most stressful or painful situations she would shed a few tears. 

Hearing how he was also close to death doors made his stomach drop as well, he knew the situation he was in was bad but…never suspected it almost led him to death. 

With a heavy heart Welt nodded, “I trust you. Please, bring him back home, and tell the others to…how do they say it? Kick ass?” A small smile broke on his features.

Himeko laughed lightly at that, “I will, and we will bring him home, you can count on us.”

The two embraced before Himeko had to leave to go meet up with the others to discuss plans. As she left Welt laid himself back onto the pillows, staring up at the ceiling left alone with his thoughts.

All he could do was wait, and a big part of him hated it. 

———————

Back at The Seat of Divine Foresight everyone was gathered around Jing Yuan's desk, after getting Diting they began discussion strategies. 

“Where’s Miss himeko?” Yanqing noticed they were missing a member. 

“She went to go visit Mr. Yang and also get Lingsha. I texted her a little bit ago but she hasn’t answered yet…” March mumbled checking her phone, the message had ‘read’ on it but there wasn’t a response.

Dan Heng placed a hand on her shoulder, “she might be on her way, plus could also be explaining the situation to Lady Lingsha.” He tried to reassure her, but after everything that happened it was hard not to worry. 

As if on cue the doors had opened revealing the two women as they walked into the room, “sorry We're late some unexpected matters happened which stalled me for a little bit…” Himeko confessed the conversation between her and Welt, still weighing heavy on her mind.

“What happened?” Caelus asked

Taking a deep breath getting closer to the others she explained, “It’s good news at least, Welt has woken up earlier than expected.” This immediately got everyone’s attention, their eyes lighting up with hope, “he’s still severely injured and is going to stay back, but he wanted me to tell you all to kick ass.” The last part made her smile a little.

Everyone around either laughed, stifled a laughter, or like Lingsha merely smiled while shaking her head. 

“Mr. Yang actually cursed?” Caelus snickered, wiping a tear from his eye, “well let’s not disappoint him and kick some ass!” 

Now that everyone was located they started going through the basics, since they didn’t know how many they were dealing with they were going into this with stealth. Taking out as many as they could from the outside of there were any, before tackling the inside. 

The talk must’ve lasted for an hour or two going over any possibilities that could happen or any other strategies to take place. 

Himeko, Caelus, and Yanqing were in charge of getting Sunday out with Lady Lingsha waiting outside to stabilize him if needed, hoping his injuries weren’t too bad. 

The rest of the group with the addition of cloud knights would be the ones to take down the opponents. 

But first they actually had to find the place and that's where Diting came in.

“Alright everyone knows what their roles are?” Jing announced looking up to everyone.

“Yes General!” 

“Good, let’s move out!” 

With that Caelus took out Sundays journal he had been carrying since getting it back; one sniff and the dog-like creature began leading the way, everyone else following behind.

“Hang on sunny We're coming.” Caelus mumbled underneath his breath marching forward.

Chapter Text

It didn’t take long before the Wearhouse Sunday was currently being kept in starting to reek blood and sweat. Since the boss got here he’s been non-stop torturing Sunday, his claws kept digging into flesh until Sunday was covered in cuts, bruises and blood, at some points the man broke even more bones in his already broken wing, not to mention the other broken bones he gained like his ribs and ankle. 

Everything hurt, his throat felt raw and sore from the amount of screaming and crying he's been doing. It was rather a pathetic sighting, Sunday probably didn't even look like himself anymore. Being covered head to toe in red, tears staining his cheeks, hair and his wing in utter disarray, and so much more.  

It was a miracle Sunday was even awake at this point, though even when he did try to pass out they would force him back awake with pouring ice cold water onto him. At one point they even added salt into the water to ensure he stayed awake. 

The wounds on his body still burned after that. 

But finally, finally , the man had relented. One of the other lackeys had mentioned something to him Sunday couldn’t hear and that seemed to have him back off. Inwardly he thanked xiped for this small mercy. 

A part of him should probably even be more anxious on why he had to back off, but frankly Sunday's mind was too clouded from the pain that was enveloping his whole body to think properly. 

For once what felt like hours Sunday could rest even if it was for a small bit he could do it. Everything hurt, he was cold, his vocals were gone due by this point, and the amount of blood he had lost since being here was so much that a small pool beneath him. Sunday thinks he deserves at least a little rest.

So for just a moment when everyone was looking away Sunday closed his eyes, it would just be for thirty seconds - nothing more. He knew what would happened if he fully went to an unconscious state, but surely just for thirty seconds he could have some sense of peace.

It didn’t even last fifteen seconds before a hand grasped Sunday's chin, forcing his head upwards making a small wincing sound, cracking open his eyes again.

The boss smirked, “I hope you aren't falling asleep, should we get the bucket again? Maybe another round with salt in it will get you to stay awake .” The man waved his hands to one of the people, bringing the bucket they had poured over him so many times into Sunday's viewing.

Seeing it and knowing there was salt in it made Sunday's eyes widen, shaking his head desperately. Jostling the broken bones in his wings causing him to make a pitiful muffled noise. 

The man had just laughed, mocking the halovian, “Good, it seems that you're starting to learn your lesson.” He hummed, tightening his grasp on Sunday's face, “But it’s your lucky day little bird. The ship that’s going to take us back to Penacony will be here in twenty minutes, until then I’m going to give you the luxury of laying here until it arrives.”

Sunday's heart sank hearing the information, was this it? Was this really going to be how it ends? He still had some hope that the others would make it just before then, or maybe by some miracle Sunday would manage to get out on his own. But considering his state now that was very unlikely, so all he could do for now is pray that they would arrive otherwise…

Otherwise it would be over, and there was nothing Sunday would be able to do about it. 

What makes you think you deserve to be saved?  This is what you deserve, you are nothing but a sinner. No one is coming to help the mess you caused yourself to get into. You've already dragged one of them into this mess, and where is he now? Probably dead.

He felt useless, pathetic even though he had to rely on others to get him out of it - Sunday used to be untouchable, used to have so much control over so many things, and so much more. Now here he was, laying helplessly because he couldn’t do anything. If his “father” saw him right now he would be disgusted at him. Sunday was even disgusted at himself because of this.

The release on his face was let go, sending him crashing back onto the cold ground below, “enjoy the last few moments of your freedom little bird.” The man snickered before stepping away to go talk to some of the other lackeys.

For a second or two Sunday didn’t do anything, letting his body rest for a moment for the pain to subside. When the pain settles just a tiny bit he curled in on himself to the best of his abilities, because that’s all he could do. Seeking what little comfort he could in probably for the last time.

Something was hissing inside of him, how utterly weak he was, that this was the second most pitiful moment in his life he’s ever dealt with. Another part was trying to reason that the others would get here in time, that they would save him, but that same damn hissing tone came crawling back bigger and louder saying it won’t happen.

He didn’t deserve to be saved, the others were probably glad he was going to be gone, after all he was just a useless piece of waste that didn’t deserve a second chance.

Robin probably would’ve been so disappointed in him, after everything she did to set him free, only for him to end back in the cage. Possibly for the final time and laying to rot in that cage forever. 

Tears swelled up in his eyes at the mere thought; curling more in himself despite his whole body aching. 

I truly am worthless. 

Ten minutes had passed by and the boss kept to his word and hasn’t laid another finger on Sunday. At some point Sunday too had uncurled from himself, the position became too painful to stay in and decided to go back to laying flat on his side. 

Pathetic.

The people around him had lessened with keeping watch, seeing no point anymore to keep a close eye on him knowing there wasn’t much he could do.

Though Sunday had sworn…in the corner of his eye he saw something off. It could've been the blood loss talking but he thought he saw one of the other people get dragged away in the shadows…

Probably just his imagination, high hopes maybe that rescue was here but then again Sunday just blamed his vision. Because as more time pass more of that false hope started to dwindled that no one was coming for him.  

Until he saw a very familiar grey hair pop his head out between the boxes, locking eyes with Sunday. 

It was Caelus. 

For a brief moment horror flashed through the grey hair features seeing the sight of Sunday. Seeing how in utter disorder he must've look of a color hes never seen on the halovian before, it made him angry, but he couldn't risk the plan.

A small sense of relief started to blossom in Sunday seeing the familiar face, he nudged himself a little forward only for Caelus to shake his head, holding a finger up to his lips. Catching the memo to, stay put, and quiet for right now.

Just then the doors busted open, a man clutching his arm, blood dripping down from a wound he gained, “Boss we’ve been found out there’s—!” Before he could finish someone slashed at his back, making him fall forwards lifelessly on the ground.

Behind him were two men, one with white hair adorned in armor holding up a spear, next to him a black hair vidyadhara with teal horns sporting up from his head to match teal scales.

“Put down your weapons and surrender. You are under arrest by the General of the cloud knights for kidnapping and attempted murder!” Jing yuans' voice boomed throughout the warehouse, his eyes briefly looking towards Sunday before locking eyes to what he assumed was the leader of this whole joint. 

The blue-haired man before him glared back at the General, clenching his hands with rage and annoyance, but it only lasted for a second before a wicked grin spread from ear to ear, “Sorry to disappoint you general, but I have to return birdie here where he belongs!” He shouted, grasping the amulet around his neck, shining brightly.

Around the Wearhouse, boxes, barrels, and more started to glow a translucent blue as they began to lift from the ground before a few were sent flying towards Jing yuan and Dan Heng.

Quickly Dan Heng was able to shoot a beam of water towards the objects, shattering them to pieces.

“Now!” The Feneral shouted, multiple things happening at once. 

Could knights jump out from the shadows, rushing forward destroying as many objects as they could while also dealing with their opponents, as arrows regular and ice showered from the second floor shooting down whatever they could.

With everyone occupied, Himeko, Caelus, and Yanqing rushed towards Sunday. The blonde used his sword to cut off the ropes that bound Sunday's arms and legs, as Himeko made quick work taking off the gag around his face.

Once both things were off his limbs slumped forward, finally free from the painful position they were in as a series of coughs left Sunday mouth.

“M-miss…Hime—?” Sunday tried to speak but could barely get out a full sentence without having to cough again.

“Shh, shh, save your energy sweetheart.” Himeko gently shushed him, brushing back Sunday's soaked bangs that clung to his face, gasping quietly seeing the gruesome sight of his left wing, “We're getting you out of here. Caelus, do you think you can pick him up?” 

He nodded, “sorry this might hurt for a second.” Caelus spoke before gently trying his best to scoop Sunday up in his arms. No matter how careful he was, a small whine crawled out of Sunday's throat, shattering Caelus' heart.

“Come on, let’s get him to lady—“ Yanqing was about to say before a claw hand came swooping downwards, luckily just grazing the boys arm.

“You're not taking him anywhere! I’ve spent days trying to find that brat and I’m not letting him go so easily!” The boss screamed, bringing his claws up again to swing back down.

This time Yanqing was prepared, blocking the blow with his sword, himeko standing in front of Caelus. 

“I’ve waited years to get my payback, and as soon as the chance arrives I’m going to see it through and not let you people ruin this!” Again he swung his claws down at Yanqing, the metals clicking and sparking with each blocking blow.

“Go you two! I’ll deal with this guy!” Yanqing shouted from behind, himeko nodded, dragging Caelus along with her hearing the boss scream from behind them.

“You're not getting away!” The amulet grew brighter, more objects levitating before they flung towards Caelus and Himeko.

Himeko turned her head, eyes widening seeing the flying objects rush towards them. She grabbed Caelus' arm, yanking him forward in order to avoid getting him and Sunday both hit. Bracing for impact she used her drone as a shield against the objects, only for scatter objects to hit it instead.

“I’ve got your backs! Go you two!” March called from above winking as she prepared another round of arrows.

“Thank you March!” Himeko called back as the two continued to rushed out of the room and down the hallway.

As they rushed Sunday could feel himself lose more and more grasp of consciousness, his body began to go more slack in Caelus’s arm, his head leaning forward, as his eyes fought to stay open.

“Hey, hey! Sunny you gotta stay awake ok?” Caelus said, panic starting to rise as he tried to run even faster, “We're almost out but ya gotta keep your eyes open! No sleeping on the job!” 

The halovian could only hum in response, leaning his head against Caelus’s shoulder but keeping his eyes open even just a crack.

They ran and ran until finally they made it outside, the cool breeze hitting their faces as a shiver erupted Sundays whole body. It felt miserable to his drenched body, blindly curling himself more inwardly on Caelus desperately seeking warmth. 

“Quick rest him over here!” Lingsha called out, a stretcher already waiting for him, Caelus didn’t have to be told twice as he laid the halovian body onto it.

Lingsha made quick work, with the help of her inscenes easing the pain while also bandaging what she could, Sunday was stabilized for the time being, “We need to take him back to the clinic, his condition is far worse than what we suspected and needs immediate attention.” She informed her ember eyes glancing up at the anxious pair.

“Caelus, can you go with Lingsha to ensure Sunday stays safe?” Himeko spoke, her voice a little shaky, as the grip around her suitcase tighten knuckles turning white, a rage she hasn't felt in quite some time crawling to the surface. 

Caleus looked to a little baffled at the question because of course he would but wasn't she also coming to the clinic with him?, “Himeko what do you--“

“I’m staying.” She spoke again, her voice shaking again not from fear or anything of that sort, no, that was anger , “Please Caelus.”

He remained silent for a moment, knowing there wasnt going to be any use arguing against this. Plans changed all the time, plus he saw something in here that Caelus has probably only seen once and he wasnt going to stop what she needed to do, “of course, I’ll make sure nothing else happens to sunny. I swear to it."   

Himeko nodded, walking up towards Sunday placing her hand on his cheek, “You can rest now Sunday, you're gonna be ok, we’ll be back soon.” She said softly to him, getting a small hum of acknowledgement before turning her back to them, pure rage boiling inside of her as she started walking back towards the building. A fire lighting within her, that she will burn the people who dare touch a single hair on her kids. 

Hearing Himeko's words, while slightly staticky it was comforting. Tears fall from his eyes of the pure relief and the hope he had sworn was wrong overlapping his painful body. He was going to be ok, he was going to be safe, and that in itself felt hard to accept but it was happening. Finally what felt like days Sunday closed his eyes, knowing he didn't have to be scared of salted watered burning his wounds again. 

For once Sunday welcome the darkness as he drifted off, simply have no more energy after everything. 

Chapter Text

The trip from the Facility to the clinic felt long and short at the same time. After Himeko went back into the building a starskiff was prepared for them to settle Sunday into for transportation. 

On the side Caelus sat in the small space, hands folding in his lap fidgeting with one another, as his eyes couldn't be parted from Sunday's beaten body. The more he starred the more sick he got noticing all the bruises, cuts, missing feathers, and more. At one point Caelus tried to look somewhere else, to distract himself a little from the gruesome sight, but as he tipped his head downwards all he was greeted with was red. 

Breath hitching, he quickly pilled his head back up again. A chill running down his spine seeing how much of his white shirt was stained red and it wasn't from him. Knowing all of that was from Sunday made him even more sick, his skin paling even more as he rubbed his hands against his arms to offer some comfort. 

How could this happened? Sunday used to big such a big shot!! never in a million years did I think he would...

His eyes decided to wandering, looking up at the ceiling only making him feel worse, so he decided to look at Lingsha who was trying her best with using whatever was in the starskiff to treat Sundays wounds. Her hands grabbing gauzes and wrapping them around wounds she couldn't cover back at the Facility. Despite her scales on those hands being red Caelus could see clear as day the darker red that stained them. 

That was also Sundays.  

In the end no matter where he looked nothing helped, so he untimely decided to look back at the halovian. 

This all felt like some cruel joke, that for once Sunday managed to finally step out of his comfort zone and explore somewhere completely new! It should'ev been a great experience, one he would never forget! and yet...

"Here I thought I was the one that always brought the trouble." Caelus mumbled to himself, a strained smile on his face. 

Lingsha briefly looked up to him, a sadness shinning in her eyes before she got back to work, cleaning up what should could. 

The ship landed, the doors burst opened revealing more doctors - lady Bailu being in that group - as they pulled the stretcher out of the ship and rushing inside the building. Caelus was close behind, not wanting to be far from the man in fear of loosing him again. Though midway Lingsha stopped him, placing a hand on his shoulder. 

"Caelus im going to ask you to stay here." She said calmly seeing the hurt in those amber eyes being told that, "I know you want to stay by Mr. Sundays side but with how severe his wounds are he needs surgery, and only doctors are allowed to be present for that. I hope you can understand." 

Of course he did, at least a part of him did, but another part wanted to fight back saying that he could be present on the sides, just to ensure nothing else happened to Sunday. Because he had failed the first time, instead of going with Welt and Sunday he decided to goof off with March while she trained, now both of them got hurt.

With a heavy heart though Caelus nodded, not able to look and Lingsha, "Ok, but you'll tell us immediately when he's out?" his voiced cracked a little, sounding a little desperate. 

"Of course." 

Then she left, leaving Caelus alone in the hallway, his shirt still stained red and his hands slightly trembling. A part of him wish he did stayed back because at least he wouldn't have felt this useless, but he had promised Himeko he would stay with Sunday. 

"I guess I should tell Mr. Yang we'er back..." he sighed, slowly trudging his way towards the room the older man was staying in, feeling a bit defeated. 

--------------------------------------------------

Hours had passed since Himeko and Welt had last spoken, it was well into the next early morning and not once did Welt manage to get a wink of sleep.

How could he? Knowing that all of them were on some possible dangerous rescue mission and all he could do was sit here? Not to mention his brain couldn’t help but conjure up many images of Sunday to multiple injuries on him, the worse one conjuring up a corpse Sunday.

Sometimes lady Bailu would come in to check on him, and also keep him company because she could tell he was stressed and looked like he needed it.

He was grateful but it didn’t rid the shame he had. He should’ve been there, he should be helping , not just sitting here. It didn’t matter if he was injured he should be out there and—

Welts thoughts were interrupted as he heard chaos coming from outside his room, different voices shouting different things he wasn’t able to catch all of it. It was only for a fleeting second as the people rushed down the hallway past his room.

A sunken feeling entered him.

Surely that’s not because of…

Curiosity was killing him, as well as fear that all of that commotion was because of…of Sunday. It couldn’t be, there was no…

That was until Caelus had walk in through his door, bags underneath his eyes, his grey hair a bit messy than usual, and worse or all blood staining his clothing.

No, no, no.

“Mr. Y-Yang…” Caelus' voice trembled just like his hands, picking up his head he looked at welt with a broken smile, “we got him back and kicked ass like ya wanted.”

Silence stretched out for several minutes, welt taking in that and…everything else, knowing the blood on Caelus wasn’t his but…

Slowly, Welt had opened his arms, “c’mere buddy.” He said, and Caelus instantly walked over, practically flopping into Welts embrace, all the exhaustion sucking out of him.

The older man wrapped his arms around the younger one in a tight hug, resting his head on top of grey hair, rubbing soothing circles against Caelus' back, “You did, I’m proud of you. All of you.” Was all he uttered before entering the silent state again.

No words were exchanged for what felt like hours, questions could be saved for later, for right now they both needed this after everything that's been happening.

Finally Caelus broke away, rubbing his eyes, mumbling a thanks, “He was in pretty bad condition when we found him…Lady Lingsha and Lady Bailu are helping him now and just told me to wait. I hate waiting.” 

“I know, I do too.” Welt responded, continuing to rub circles motions on Caelus' back, “where are the others? Are they not with you?” 

Caelus shook his head, shifting slightly, “they're still fighting the bastards that took Sunday, Miss Himeko was supposed to be with me but she stayed back…” he trailed off for a second, remembering how angry she sounded, “she was pissed, that’s probably the most I’ve ever seen her mad I think.”

A small smile broke on welts felts, that didn’t surprise him in the least. It didn’t matter how long Sunday had been with them, she had seen him as one of their own. If one person in the express was in that situation himeko would do everything she can in her power to keep the people she loves safe. 

Small conversation broke out between the two, keeping themselves busy as they waited, waited, and waited. 

It was way past midnight when Welt’s door had opened again, this time it was Dan Heng and March who walked in. Both had small bruises and bandages scattered across their body, looking utterly exhausted, but also hoping to seek some news. 

“Anything?” Dan Heng was the first to ask, seeing both Welt and Caelus shake their hands had made everyone drop their heads.

Just like earlier Welt opened his arms, March particularly throwing herself at him weeping into his shoulder. Dan Heng stood by the door crossing his arms over his chest, a grave expression on his face.

No questions were asked once again, they were all tired whether emotionally or physically, March continuing to weep and welt offering small reassurances. Soon enough March had basically passed out in the man’s arms, finally getting some rest she desperately needed.

“You two should rest too, you had a long night.” Welt suggested, scooting over as much as he could to give some room on the small clinic bed. 

Caelus nodded, squeezing into the spot welt tried to make, “wake me if there’s any news…” he mumbled, yawning before sliding his eyes shut, welts hand ruffled his hair lightly.

Amber eyes looked over to see Dan Heng stood, seemingly lost in his thoughts, “Dan Heng?” Welt called out softly to not wake the others, it seemed to be enough to sake him from his thoughts for just a moment.

He merely shrugged in response, “I wish to stay awake until we hear the results back, frankly I don’t think I could sleep anyway.” Dan Heng sighed, running a hand through his hair.

It was understandable considering the recent circumstances, Welt was in the same boat, he hadn’t slept the entire evening being worried out of his mind about everyone. That still hasn’t changed, not until he heard for himself Sunday was going to be fine. 

“You should sit down at least, you’ve been on your legs all day, you deserve a break.” Welt offered, inclining his head to one of the empty chairs nearby. Dan Heng complied seemingly to basically crash into the chair.

Nothing was said at first, Dan Heng trying to gather some energy because frankly he was spent after fighting so much. Taking a deep breath he picked his head up looking at welt, “…how are you fairing? It’s good to see you awake, before we left Miss Himeko mentioned you did but we didn’t have the time to come visit.” He asked resting against the chairs back.

Welt waved him off, “it’s alright don’t worry about it, you had much more important things to do.” He reassured, before letting out a long tired sigh, “But as of right now physically I’m fairing except for a small pain in my head, Lady Bailu gave me some an hour or so ago though it hasn't seem to rid of it fully, but I'll managed it.”

Silence scattered for a beat or two.

“Mentally, I’m stressed. This whole situation I think has given me a few more grey hairs hah.” Welt tried to joke but it inevitably fell flat, weaving his hand through Caelus' hair before looking over to Dan Heng, “how are you doing?” 

The question made the black hair tense where he sat, seemly not expecting to be asked, “…I’m fine.” An obvious lie that Welt could spot a mile away, judging by the subtly guilty expression Dan Heng held Welt knew there was more underneath that mask.

Welt features softened a bit, “Dan Heng you know you can talk to me if you need anything.” 

Conflictions filtered through the young man’s face, looking like he did want to talk but also felt guilty for doing so. Welt was injured and was already dealing with a lot as is and Dan Heng rather not add onto that. He felt bad enough as is that he couldn’t do more for either of them, he couldn’t really help out Sunday back at the facility, and now here was Welt asking him if he was ok.

“Thank you Mr. Yang but I’ll be ok.” He declined glancing behind him in hopes that either Lingsha or Bailu would enter to deliver the news. The door remained shut leaving Dan Heng to only sigh as he turned back around.

“Ok, the offer is always on the table.” Welt reminded, leaving it at that, he wasn’t one to push or pry when it came to talks like these. If the other person didn’t want to talk then welt wasn’t going to force them too, it wasn’t right to do so.

Another hour passed and still nothing, the more time had passed the nauseating feeling of worry only grew more.

Why was it taking so long? Surely his injuries couldn’t be this bad that it would take this long….right? 

There were a few questions that have been pondered in welts mind, some that could be saved more than others, “Question for you Dan Heng.” Welt asked, seeing the young man perk up, “where’s himeko?”

“Ah right, she’s still at the facility Sunday was being kept in. After we managed to round them all up she stayed behind with General Jing Yuan.” Dan Heng explained, sighing at the memory, “I asked to stay too but Miss Himeko insisted I come see you and…and Sunday when he recovers.”

Welt hummed in acknowledgment glancing out the window, “I hope she’s not overextending herself.” 

————————

Back at the facility things were starting to pack up, thanks to the additional help of the cloud knights with General Jing Yuans lead they managed to round up all the lackeys, plus their boss. It wasn’t an easy fight, the man had a lot more tricks up their sleeves than they originally thought.

The amulet being able to lift anything up was a curveball to their plan, at one point the man even tried to lift a whole pillar to throw at them, which was ultimately his downfall. 

Because of his recklessness Himeko was able to get the upper hand finally taking him down. The blindness of her rage made her a little reckless with subduing him, but frankly she couldn't care less after seeing those metal claws stained with dried blood who she knew where it came from. Honestly she wished he gave the man a couple more hits just for good measure, but she held herself back. 

Now at the present Himeko was discussing with Jing yuan the future of these people's charges, “if it brings any comfort I can assure you these people will face a long time in prison, with the evidence and also when I ask Mr. Yang testament of what happened and eventually Mr. Sundays.” He said that part a little hesitantly, but eventually it was going to be needed. 

Himeko hummed in acknowledgment, “It does, thank your General for all your help again. You must’ve gone a lot out of your way to help us, if there’s anything we can do to repay the favor then we’ll repay in full.” She glanced up at the white hair male who shook his head at the request offering a small smile.

“There’s no need, the Astral Express has done so much for the Loufo already it’s the least we could've done.” He reassured, glancing around their surroundings, grimacing, seeing the small pool of blood nearby, “I just hope Mr. Sunday will be alright…” 

The red hair said nothing at the last comment, not able to bring her eyes to the same spot the General was looking at. The image of Sundays body all bloody, bruised, and the sight of his left wing almost looked shattered—

She couldn't look without feeling sick right afterwards.

“General!” Yanqing called out, the boy jogging up to meet them, holding something in his hands.

“What is it Yanqing?” Jing yuan asked, glancing down at the object, his stomach sinking seeing…a halo in the boy's hands. He didn’t know a lot about Halovians, the most 2 distinctive things he knew about were their wings and halo, supposedly the halo was a close connection to their Aeon being a significant symbol.

Seeing it completely disregarded, and looking like they tried to break it with how few scratches and dents that were on the precious object, made a new anger flare up in the Generals blood. 

“I found it by the wall,” his gaze fell onto Himeko who’s face for a split second turned into something Yanqing couldn’t quite describe, “I’m assuming this is…?”

“Yes it is,” Himeko voice wavered a little seeing the familiar object, “thank you for finding it in Yanqing. May I?” She asked, extending her hand outwards towards the halo, Yanqing didn't waste a second with handing it over. Her honeyed eyes looked down at the halo, running her fingers gently over the cool metal, she would have to wash it before returning it to Sunday.

If he’s still ali—

Inwardly shaking those thoughts out of her mind because that was the last thing she needed to think about right now, he was going to be fine , it was all going to be fine . Taking a deep breath she looked back to Jing yuan, “I’m sorry to cut this short but would it be alright if I start heading to the clinic?”

“Of course. We’ve pretty much wrapped up everything here, you can leave the rest to us.” Jing yuan smiled down at her, “would it be alright at some point we also paid a visit? I don’t know when Mr. Sunday will be awake but I want to apologize that his first time on the Loufu wasn’t a pleasant one…”

“The more the merrier.” was all she could muster to say with a tired smile; patting the man’s shoulder before making her way out of the building. 

As Himeko walked outside she had to hold her hand up to shield her face from the Early morning that greeted her. A part of himeko wanted to laugh how it could be such a beautiful morning with so much sorrow that was in her.

The walk from the facility to the clinic was a lonely and long one, through it all Himeko held onto the halo closely, not risking anything else happening to it. She knew how much Sunday dislikes dirty things, she’s probably seen him polish this halo a dozen times getting it a perfect shine. Seeing it now dull, scratched up, and small flecks of blood on it made her feel queasy for some reason. 

She would ensure it would be back to that same polish state as it was before. 

Midway through her walk Himeko's phone buzzed in her pocket, at first she was going to ignore it, simply needing to be alone with her thoughts. But with everything going on it was probably wise for her to check, so fishing out her phone it was a call coming from Dan Heng.

Immediately she answered, “Dan Heng? Is everything ok?” 

“He’s out of surgery, Lady Lingsha wanted to ask if you wanted to wait to hear about his injuries or tell you later.” He explained, sounding exhausted with a tiny hint of relief.

“No need, I’ll be there in five minutes.” Hanging up the phone Himeko didn’t waste another second and rushed the rest of the way there.

As she ran, a thought popped into her head.

What am I going to tell Miss robin…

———————————

Just like Himeko said she was here in five minutes tops. Everyone was gathered in the room Welt was in, Linsha stating that visiting Sunday would come later. March and Caelus had also woken up when they got the news of Sunday coming out of surgery. Now with everyone gathered the hardest part is hearing the list of injuries the halovian sustained. 

“You all may want to sit down, this isn’t going to be the faint of heartiness.” Lingsha warned pulling out a clip board with the different conditions Sunday was in, everyone who wasn’t already sitting obliged.

“Before we get started,” Himeko piped up, fiddling with the halo in hand, “is Sunday going to make a full recovery?” 

“Yes," Lingsha replied not missing a beat, everyone seemingly letting out a breathe they've been holding at that, "it might take some time but eventually he’ll be able to make a full recovery, however due to the severity of what he’s endured it could take up to more than a month.” She informed, seeing everyone nodding, “any further questions?” 

When everyone shook their heads Lingsha cleared her throat, “very well, Mr. Sunday has sustained a multitude of different injuries, he had to get many of the cuts that were slashed on him stitched, we also had to give him some antibiotics because some of the cuts were infected.” She paused for a brief moment, not fully prepared saying this next part out loud, “While looking over his injuries we found out that there was some tissue damage, and I was able to pick up due to my sense of smell. It was because of…salt.” 

A few gasps could be heard, as the whole express crew eyes widen from horror. March’s face went to a sickly pale as she held a hand up to her mouth, both Dan Heng and Caelus grasped onto their clothing until their knuckles turned white, and both Welt and Himeko were deathly quiet hearing the information.

“Are you saying that…that they poured salt onto his wounds?” Caelus asked, seemingly struggling to put those words in a sentence.

Lingsha gravely nodded, “specifically salt water, because of that a lot of his wounds were aggravated and the tissue was damaged considering some of them were already infected beforehand from getting dirt and other bacteria in it.”

That explained why when they first got to Sunday he was soaking wet, they had poured salt water on him for some inhumane reasoning. 

“Because of the water as well Mr. Sunday is currently dealing with a fever, I don’t know much about Halovian biology so I do not know if this is true but it seems to have…amplified it.” She continued shifting on her feet, “hence why I didn’t want you all to go visit him yet, his fever is currently at hundred four, Lady Bailu and a few other doctors are trying to bring his temperature down.”

Everyone nodded gravely, with how cold the place was inside being soaked in water to then deal with that brutal temperature wasn't a good mix. This also gave them another reason to look into halovian biology to figure out things like this and how to help. 

Lingsha continued to explain the other injuries Sunday had, it felt never ending the more she went on and on. At some points the Astral crew asks to take breaks, not able to stomach hearing back to back of it getting worse. A part of them thought how in Aeons Sunday was supposed to make a full recovery, but Lingsha stated he would, just that it would take time.

“This is the last thing on the list, it’s in regards to Mr. Sunday's left wing.” Once more everyone around them tensed, at some point March had latched herself to Welt again clutching on his arm, “A lot of the bones in it were broken, he got very lucky that it wasn’t anything irreversible. Again I don’t know much about Halovian’s so we cast it like a bird who gets a broken wing. When he’s conscious again I will have to remind him to not move it too much.” 

At this point everyone just nodded, not having the energy to speak any further until everything was said and done. There were too many different emotions running inside all of them, whether it was guilt, shame, sadness, anger, regret, and so much more they didn’t know what to do with it. 

“That's all, I will let you all know when he’s available for visitors. Until then please be patient and get some rest, you all deserve it after what you’ve been through.” She said lastly, placing down the clipboard to look at everyone.

“…Thank you lady Lingsha.” Himeko spoke after a beat, clearing her throat, “please let us know as soon as you can when he’s available.” 

The brown hair women simply nodded, biding her goodbyes before exiting out of the room, seeing they all needed some time for themselves. 

As soon as the door clicked shut everyone in the room let out a long shaky breath, seemingly sinking into the furniture they sat on. Everything they were just informed was weighing on their minds.

“I can’t believe all of that…really happened to Sunday.” March mumbled, breaking the silence in the room, “back in Penacony he seemed so untouchable , and now he…he…” she couldn’t say the last part with tears pricking her eyes, welt squeezed her hand offering some comfort. 

Caelus looked down at himself, nearly forgetting his clothes were still stained with Sunday's blood and similar to March it was hard to imagine that all of this belonged to him…despite seeing him all cut up and bloody it was just…it felt so unreal still. 

Dan Heng saw the way Caelus looked down at himself, wincing seeing all the dried blood still on his clothes. Getting up from his chair and offering a hand, “let's go see if we can find you some new clothes to wear, plus getting some air might be good to have right now.” 

The grey hair nodded, taking Dan Hengs hand into his, hoisting him up from the bed. Caelus then glanced back at March, “wanna tag along? The more the merrier y’know…?” 

March for a brief moment looked conflicted, before eventually nodding, coming to the same conclusion that she could use some air after receiving all that heavy news.

“We’ll be back shortly, text us if there’s any updates.” Dan Heng said lastly, Himeko responding that she will before the trio left.

Now only Himeko and Welt remained.

The two didn’t say anything for a while, still letting the severity of Sunday's injuries take over, it wasn’t until Welt finally looked at the halo in Himeko's lap finally Breaking the deadly silence. He was going to comment about it earlier but after waiting so long for news about Sunday he didn’t get the chance. 

“How did…how did that come off?” He asked, sitting up more properly.

The woman shrugged, “Yanqing found it by the wall at that place. I wouldn’t be too shocked if at some point they had ripped it away from him, trying to break it.” There was a little venom in Himeko words as she clutched the halo more tightly, “Halovians Halos are supposed to be the most precious things to them, yet those people treated it like it was nothing . I planned to fix it to my best abilities before Sunday wakes.” 

Welt hummed, his own anger boiling up, having to take a deep breath to cool it off, “it’s good you found it, I’m sure he’ll be happy to have it back.” He said softly, Himeko just hummed in response. 

Once again the room entered in a tense silence, Welt knew there were a lot of things swimming around in Himeko's mind. The way she was sitting so stiffly barely uttering anything was a clear give away.

“Himeko, how are you doing?” He thought to ask, couldn’t hurt.

For a moment there was no response, before she let out a long sigh, hunching in on herself a little, “stressed, exhausted, guilty, and pretty much all the above.” Himeko confessed while rubbing her temple, “I really wanted Sunday's first time on a new planet to be a happy one. From what we know he’s never left Penacony, So I was hoping for this trip he could witness and learn new things he’s never seen! Before coming here he would always shut himself in his room for hours, and he was finally starting to open up and I just worry…I just worry he’ll do it again.” she stated softly, her gaze turning back towards the halo tracing her finger over the edge.  

Welt didn’t say anything at first, allowing Himeko to spill what she needed to. He couldn’t help but feel the same, the guilt of not being able to do more especially considering this was Sunday's first start to something new and it all ended like…this. 

“I understand what you mean, I was happy to give him a mini version of the tour around the Luofu…the expressions he had while seeing so many new things was a first.” Welt smiled inwardly remembering the genuine excitement and amazement Sunday had on his face before everything went down, “for what it’s worth I do think he has enjoyed himself even if it was for a small moment.” 

“Really?” Himeko asked, sounding genuinely surprised.

“Yes, he kept asking me so many questions and despite being nervous at first wanted to try new things. Though he definitely has to warm up to the food a little, taking him to a restaurant that mainly sold spicy foods was probably not the best.” He laughed lightly, seeing himeko smiled too at the memory, “however he didn’t complain, he tried to eat the whole meal despite it all. Afterward we tried a dessert I think he would’ve enjoyed and his face practically lit up.” 

The red hair chuckled at that, “Who knew someone like him would have a sweet tooth." pausing for a second, "Thank you welt, I needed to hear that.” Her smile seemed to be a more genuine one as she pulled out a handkerchief, began to rub away the dirt that resided on the halo.

Welt nodded, “Of course, I can’t promise how he will feel when he wakes up, but I can say he’s had some good moments here.” Welt hummed, his fingers tapping against his knee, “I do hope he wakes up soon.”

“I hope so too.” 

All they could do was wait. 

Chapter Text

Slosh, slosh, slosh 

The water around his ankles echoed around in this abyss-like area. Sunday didn’t know where he was going, why he was here, or if there was a goal insight.

He only knew how to keep walking, despite his lungs burning, despite his right ankle throbbing with pain, despite each step he took blood would ooze out of the wounds he had. He didn’t even know how he got these injuries; they had just appeared onto him.

But it didn’t matter because Sunday kept walking, hoping, praying, that there was an end goal to this abyss.

“Hello!?” He called out his voice echoing around, throat burning each time he tried to speak, “is anyone out there!”

Each time he called out there was never a response, a part of him wondered why he kept doing it. Maybe a false hope someone would answer back or something like that.

Just keep walking.

He did, he walked and walked, not knowing how much time had passed— did even time pass here? He didn’t know.

It felt like an eternity until finally he saw something different, in the distance he saw an outline of what looked like a figure.

“Oh thank aeons!” Sunday gasped, using whatever energy he had left to run closer, “I’m glad to have found another person in here I thought I was the only one! Do you know where we are?” 

The figure said nothing, its back still facing Sunday. 

“Hello?” Sunday called out again, reaching his hand out to tap the person's shoulder, but before doing so the figure grasped his wrist into a tight grip. 

He tried to rip his hand away from the grip but it didn’t relent, again, again, but nothing worked, “Let go of me!” he shouted, the figure yanked on Sunday wrist dragging him forwards causing him to wince. 

Just then the figure seemed to have…shifted, its frame got taller, their hair grew down to their shoulder, the hand that held Sunday's wrist started to grow claws sinking into his flesh. The figure's neck snapped as it turned towards him, two familiar features morphing into one, “Hello little bird.” The voice hiss, towering over Sunday.

Fear immediately took over hearing the two voice, one being of ‘the boss’ and the other…the other being…”f-father?” His voice trembled, once more trying desperately to pull away from the grip, the claws only further deepening into his flesh.

A low chuckle escaped the morphed form, as wings spread out behind its head, “Can’t even be away from home for more than a week and look what you’ve done.” Their voices boomed around them causing Sunday to flinch, “I think we ought to take you back home, maybe a week in the church will be a fitting punishment.”

Sunday's eyes widened, “no! no please I-i don’t want to go back there, please I’ll be good please—“ he pleaded tears swelling up in his eyes, he couldn’t go back there, he didn’t want to go back there.

He knows what will happen if he goes there.

“Oh? What’s this? Sunday, the head of the oak family, pleading because he’s afraid to pray?” The voices taunted him, pulling Sunday closer, “Being on that express with all those sinners has made you soft child, but maybe if you apologize like you really mean it I’ll reconsider.” 

The hand let go of Sunday's wrist, dropping him into the water below. The Halovian quickly sitting up in a kneeling position and folded his hands in a prayer, “I’m sorry father that I sinned, I promise I won’t do it again. I’ll improve, I’ll do better, I won’t make the mistake again. I’m sorry, please forgive me.” Sunday begged and begged, a few tears falling from his eyes.

At first the figure didn’t do anything, merely looking down at Sunday with a big grin on their face. Reaching down they patted Sunday's head, “Good enough. I do hope there is no repeat of this, or next time I won’t be so nice. Do you understand, Sunday?” 

“Y-Yes father.” 

“Excellent.” The voice hissed once more before slowly melting into the water below them, dissolving without a trace. 

Sunday didn’t move from where he kneeled, still whispering small apologies even if there was no one here to hear him. Tears kept flowing down his eyes, his body shaking and aching.

Maybe he hasn’t changed at all…

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Waking up with his head pounding wasn’t something new to Sunday, a dull aching that also seemed to take over his body wasn’t also a new feeling, it was more of an annoyance than anything.

Where was he? It didn’t feel like he was in the facility anymore, his body was placed on something plush and soft— nothing like the cold hard ground. The air was also different, it didn’t smell like blood and sweat anymore, instead it smelled almost…like multiple herbs. Sunday didn’t know exactly how to describe it, it was a mixture of different smells that were all pleasant at least.

A part of Sunday knew if he just opened his eyes finding out where he was would be a simple solution. Another part of him though was still exhausted, his eyelids felt like lead and refused to open.

“I do hope there is no repeat of this, or next time I won’t be so nice.”

The memory of the N̶i̶g̶h̶t̶m̶a̶r̶e̶ ̶ dream he had forced to peel eyes open. With them open he noticed that the room was dark, only a little light from the moon seeping in to cast some light.

Slowly Sunday adjusted himself upwards, grunting softly doing so. His body felt heavy, like there was some invisible force trying to keep him down, and while it was tempting to just continue to sleep Sunday resisted. 

 With a bit more bearing to his name Sunday glance around the room, assuming this was some form of clinic due to the smell, the I.V that was hooked to his arm, the clothes he was wearing, it was a fair assumption.

Right, I was rescued from that place…the last thing I remember was seeing Caelus and Miss Himeko carry me out. Where are they?

Glancing around the room some more he’s eyes landed on the door, and there next to it stood Dan Heng. The black hair male seemed to have nodded off at some point while standing next to the door, almost looking like he was on guard.

That can’t be comfortable. 

“Dan—“ Sunday tried to speak, but it came out more as a rasp before violent coughs erupted through him causing his whole body to shake. 

Immediately Dan Heng snapped to attention, his eyes widening seeing that Sunday was actually awake ! Rushing over to the bed, with one hand Dan Heng awkwardly but carefully rubbed Sunday's back, while the other one grabbed the glass of water on the nightstand handing it over, “Here, drink some of this.” 

Sunday didn’t waste a second, taking the glass and downing whatever he could - not realizing how dry his throat was until now. Settling down from his coughing fit, wheezing a little, Dan Heng helped him settle back onto the pillows. 

“Thank you D-Dan Heng.” He gasped, bringing his hand up to rub his temple, somehow feeling worse than he was before,”I-I apologize, I saw you nodding off while standing and—“ he coughed once more, wincing as pain shot through him.

“You don’t need to apologize,” Dan Heng sighed, smiling a little, “I’m just glad you're awake. Do you need anything? Are you in any pain at all?” He asked, fetching out his phone quickly to type a few messages.

Sunday hummed, a doctor would probably be the wise choice right now. He felt awful whatever was dulling his pain from a few minutes ago had seemed to be dissolving, “Doctor please.” 

Dan Heng nodded, seemingly a little hesitant at first before rushing out of the room to go find one.

It took less than a minute before Dan Heng and a young girl with purple hair and horns sprouting from her head rushed into the room. The young girl holding a different assortment of what seemed like…medicine? Frankly it was very hard to tell with the lighting. 

“Here Mr. Sunday, take some of these! It’ll help lessen the pain and help with your fever too!” The purple hair girl instructed, wondering why a child was saying this to him but followed orders anyway. 

Taking each of the medications then instantly drinking the rest of the water that was in his glass, Sunday had settled back onto the pillows, “the effects should kick in soon and the pain should fade away for a while. Other than that, how are you feeling?” The purple hair girl asked.

“I’m…” he trailed off for a moment, trying to look for the words. 

My body hurts, my head hurts, my wing aeons my wing—

“Fine.” He strained out, rubbing his head once more, “just a bit disoriented and confused, how long was I out for? I feel like I’ve been asleep for weeks…”

Dan Heng and the purple haired girl shared a look with one another, sweat trailing down their foreheads. The silence only made Sunday feel worse because surely that couldn’t be the case, surely his injuries couldn’t be that bad. While he might've not gotten a good look at himself it couldn’t have been…

“You’ve been asleep for a little over five days, you…” Dan Heng spoke up, trying to find the words, “you lost a lot of blood at the facility, not to mention you sustained a concussion and also have a fever.” 

Guess that would make sense…but still five days, five days wasted, five days I held them back—

Guilt swam in Sunday's stomach, five days was still a long time, and who knew how long it would take for him to heal? Was he even able to fully heal? He didn’t know and that only made him feel even more guilty.

Pathetic, pathetic, pathetic.

“Oh.” Was all Sunday could manage to get out, swallowing the lump in his throat. 

Nothing was said after that, the purple hair girl doing a few more check ups on Sunday as the medicine kicked in, once done she headed out. Leaving now only the two in the room in an awkward  tense silence. 

Dan Heng cleared his throat, “The others are on their way, they’ve been really worried as well.” He mentioned, trying to lighten up the atmosphere a little. 

“They…were worried about me?” Sunday asked, a bit flabbergasted at that. The only other person to say that to him was his sister, which made sense considering they were family but these people…

Sunday had only been on the express for a couple weeks by now, and prior to that they had basically been enemies . For Aeons sake he had tried to kill all of them! Yet now they were saying they were worried about him?  He really couldn’t fathom the kindness that was the astral express, Sunday doesn’t think he will ever understand how they could be so considerate towards him. Why do they even bother? He hasn’t really done anything to deserve any of their sympathy, so why? 

“Of course, when we heard what happened to you and Mr. Yang…” He trailed off for a moment, remembering the night at the facility, finding Sunday and seeing how—, “We did everything we could think of to find you, and thanks to some extra help we were able to get you back before that man took you off the Loufu.” 

The halovians eyes widen a bit hearing Welts name, he hadn’t seen or heard about anything about him since the day he was taken. While Sunday's body was starting to feel like lead again, he sat up needing answers, “Is he ok? What happened to him? He wasn’t there with me so I-I assumed he was—“

As if on cue the door to Sunday's room had opened revealing the rest of the crew who seemed to be out of breath and also looked like they were still in pajamas? Did they wake up just to see him…? 

“you're awake! We never thought you’d wake up!” March chimed, small tears pricking her eyes, throwing her arms around the halovian for an embrace, the silver hair stiffened for just a moment before eventually relaxing.

Caelus also came over to the bed sitting on the edge of it, placing his hand on one of Sunday's knees, “You really had us worried for a bit, I think I finally understand how Miss Himeko and Mr. Yang feels whenever we get into danger.”  He chuckled lightly, though there was a hint of sadness to his words. 

Sunday didn’t know what to say, how to react to all of this affection, he should probably say something right? 

“I apologize I didn’t mean to worry all of you I—“ Sunday stammered, his words being cut off as a hand settled on top of his head, ruffling his hair softly.

“There’s nothing for you to apologize for.” The familiar gravel voice immediately had Sunday looking up at the figure, Welt Amber gaze with a mixture of relief but slight concern looking down at him, “We're happy to have you back.”

Sunday went to open his mouth to respond but to only close it. He felt like if he spoke tears would fall, and that’s the last thing he wanted right now. There were too many emotions running through him seeing the older man, because a part of him thought, no believe Welt was dead. To see him standing with only a bandage around his head from where they struck him was so relieving it was almost overwhelming. 

Beside Welt, Himeko stepped into view resting a hand on the man’s shoulder, a small smile on her face as she looked at the two of them. Having them all in the same room, awake and safe was all she could hope for after the past several days of waiting and waiting.  

The group had small light hearted conversations of what the past five days have been like, catching Sunday a little up to speed. However as the conversation continued Sunday began to start nodding off, the medication fully kicking in now.

Himeko immediately caught on, letting out a small laugh, “Alright everyone, we should let Sunday get some more rest.” She announced to everyone, Caelus and March pouted but ultimately understood, hopping off from the bed. 

“Thank you all for,” Sunday stifled a yawn, “visiting. Especially at such an hour, I’m…I’m glad to see you all too.” He said with earnest, a small smile.

As the group began to leave, Welt and Dan Heng remained by the door, and Himeko turned towards them. She knew why Dan Heng was remaining, since getting Sunday back they all have been taking turns with watching over Sunday just as a precaution. Right now it was Dan Hengs turn, but seeing Welt also stay by the door was a little surprising.

“If it’s alright, I would like to stay as well for the rest of Dan Hengs watch. I…” Welt muttered turning his head back to Sunday, Himeko patted his shoulder shushing him.

“You don’t have to say the rest, I understand.” She said softly, “But make sure to watch over your health too, you're not out of the woods quite yet.” The two smiled, Welt nodding.

The three of them departed back to the hotel they were staying out, Dan Heng turned to welt, “I’m going to get more water for Sunday.” It was an excuse Welt could tell from a mile away, whatever the cause he wasn’t going to question and appreciated it.

“Thank you Dan Heng.” He said before the two separated, Welt walking back into the room and pulling up a chair next to Sunday's bed.

Sunday had turned his gaze towards Welt hearing the chair squeak, a little confused, “are you not going with the others? I don’t want to keep you up considering you're still injured.” he mumbled, trying to sit up but Welt merely rested his hand on his shoulder stopping him. 

“I’ll join them later, and your not don’t worry.”  Welt reassured, amazed how Sunday was covered almost head and toe to bandages and yet he was still worried about him , even after everything, “I just wish to stay here for a bit longer, just to bring me some peace of mind is all.”

The halovian hummed, not minding the presence. It was comforting in a way after all for a good while he had thought…he had thought of someone he looked up to, someone who gave him a second chance, someone who accepted him, and so on was just…gone. It brought a familiar pain he had felt long ago, one he hadn’t felt since he was a child when his mother died.

So to have Welt next to him at this moment rid away those painful thoughts and feelings. 

“Mr. Yang I…” Sunday began to speak, choking up on his words. His grip on the blanket tightened a little, “I’m really glad you're ok. When I didn’t see you at the facility I had thought…I had thought the worst.” He confessed, voice breaking a little.

Don’t cry, you're better than this. Stop being ridiculous. 

“Seeing you covered in…in blood then not knowing what happened to you afterwards, I was..” scared, terrified, I thought I lost another— , “concerned. I had no idea if anyone would have been able to find you, or if they had…” He hadn’t realize his breathing had picked up a little, body beginning to tremble.

Welt reached out for Sunday's hand, squeezing it gently, “I’m right here Sunday. I’m not going anywhere I promise.” He said softly and reassuringly, grounding Sunday back to the present. 

Nothing was said for a moment, the hand grasping Sundays tightening a little more to ensure him that welt was in fact here. Not dead, not beyond injured, not covered in blood anymore, he was here. More emotion swam up to the surface, some he wasn’t able to contain any longer. 

“…I was scared Mr. Yang.” It was barely above a whisper hearing that, tears forming in the corner of Sunday's eyes, “I didn’t know if I was going to make it, I was covered in blood and so m-many wounds…my ankle broken and my wing—“ he bit his lower lip, as the tears started to fall from his cheek, “they broke my w-wing Mr. Yang…what if— what if it doesn’t heal? Am I going to have to lose another set of wings…?”

The question was asked in such a broken voice, one that shattered Welts heart hearing it. He didn’t know a lot about Sunday's past, only a few instances of late night talks when Sunday really needed it. One of those talks was how his Adoptive father had “clipped” the wings on Sunday back, preventing him from ever leaving the cage he was trapped in. Because of that Sunday took great care of the ones he had remaining, going so far to make sure not a feather was out of place.

To see it now one of them wrapped up in bandages hurt, it hurt even more when Sunday would try to move it only for someone to stop him. 

“It will, I promise.” Welt said, rubbing circles against Sunday's hand with his thumb, “Lady Linghsha who’s a respected medical expert said it herself, it may take some time but it will heal. Same with everything else, she mentioned you’ll be able to make a full recovery but again it’ll take time.” 

Sunday looked at Welt with tear filled eyes, something in him searching to see if there were any lies. He felt guilty for doing so, because Sunday should know by now Welt wouldn’t lie to him about this, it wasn’t like the man to do that. But that’s what he also thought of Gopherwood and he had lied to him so many times…

But seeing how Welt didn’t hesitate as he spoke, looked directly in Sundays eyes telling him that, and held onto him - comforting him. Welt was telling the truth, and it brought more relief to Sunday than he was expecting because even more tears fell down his face.

Quickly Sunday brought his hand up to shield his eyes, trying to wipe away the tears feeling embarrassed he had been seen like this, “I-I apologize, I don’t know why I’m crying.” He hiccupped, trying to come up with a lie for his pathetic state. “It’s probably the m-medicine having me say all of this hah, I don’t feel quite like m-myself.” 

Those amber eyes continued to looked at Sundays, it wouldn’t be the first time Sunday would try to find some way to hide how he was feeling after everything was said and done, to make up excuses for himself that it was the cause of something else.  Each time they talked Welt had said that it was ok to feel what he was feeling, it was natural after everything that he had repressed started to unravel again. But Sunday felt conflicted as if what he was saying was a lie. It was happening again. 

The older male carefully stood up from his chair, gently resting his hand behind Sunday's head before bringing him forward placing it on his shoulder as his other arm wrapped around Sunday's body in an awkward embrace. The halovian below him stiffened, “M-Mr. Yang?” 

“Sunday you out of all the people from this situation are allowed to be upset, what you went through was very traumatic and awful.” Welt began, guiding his hand through Sunday's hair, “You were kidnapped, injured, brought back to moments that happened in your childhood. No one would blame you or punish you for being scared, upset, and more. It is more than understandable to feel those types of things from this situation.”

The tears Sunday tried to fight back now couldn’t stop flowing down his face as he listened to every word Welt was saying to him. 

“We care for you a lot Sunday, it doesn’t matter how long you’ve been on the express, as long as you're there you're one of us. And we will not hold it against you for this.” Welt promised him, a small sob escapes from Sunday hearing that part, “You don’t have to hide or make excuses with how you feel to us. We will always accept and listen to whatever you need whenever you need it.”

There was a brief pause.

“You’re one of my trailblazing goals Sunday, hell even if you weren’t I would still never turn you away.”

At this point Sunday had let go of trying to hide as he fully sob onto Welt's shoulder. He didn’t know how to respond to any of that, how could he? He’s never been told any of that before, he’s never felt such acceptance before, never felt like he mattered more than he did right now. 

Welt continued to mumble reassurances as his hand kept threading through Sunday's hair, being mindful of his head injuries. 

Over time the sobbing decreased, fully stopping at one point as Sunday put all his body weight on welt. Seemingly having to fall asleep after all of that.

It took welt a moment or two to let go, a part of him thinking if he did Sunday would simply vanish again. Eventually he laid the halovian back against the pillows, tucking back a few strands of hair that got in his face.

Sitting back in the chair Welt let out a long sigh, rubbing his hands over his face. Welt himself now feeling utterly drained from all of that.

Just then a few soft knocks came from the door, “come in.” Welt uttered, turning his head to look back.

The door cracked up, Dan Heng poking his head in, “Is it alright for me to come in? I didn’t want to bother you two.” He asked a little cautious.

Welt smiled nodding, “yes you may, sorry for making you wait a while.” The black hair stepped into the room, setting the glass of water on the side table.

“It’s alright, I wasn’t waiting that long.” Dan Heng hummed, glancing over at Sundays sleeping from seeing the remnants of tear stained cheeks, “…I hope he’s able to recover quickly.”

Welt nodded, glancing over to Dan Heng noticing how he clenched his hands into fist, a silent anger rising, “how are you feeling recently? You’ve been more quiet these past few days than normal.” 

Dan Heng's eyes widened a little at that, thinking he was masking it pretty well considering the others hadn’t pointed it out. Even with a recovering concussion nothing escaped welts gaze. 

He didn’t say anything at first, a little hesitant to speak his mind. With everything that has been happening the last thing Dan Heng wanted was to make this about him, it wasn’t right considering he wasn’t the one who was kidnapped and injured. Why should he express how he feels it didn’t—

“Dan Heng, you don’t have to worry about taking this situation away from anyone. We're all allowed to feel upset about what happened, it’s ok to express that.” Welts' voice cut into his mind, almost seemingly knowing what he was thinking. 

“I…” he took a deep breath, turning his gaze towards the ground, “I’m angry at those people. I feel guilty that I couldn’t do more to help Sunday, when I first saw him I…I just wish I could've done more.” 

The feeling was mutual, Welt understood perfectly what Dan Heng was feeling. Being stuck in a hospital bed and having to wait to hear news about a companion who was in serious danger was not a great feeling to have. Constantly having to wonder the “what ifs” and the crushing guilt that he should’ve been there. He still felt that guilt, one he isn’t sure would go away any time soon. 

Standing up from his chair, welt placed a hand on Dan Heng's shoulder, “We're always going to think we should've done more, that we could’ve done the situation differently, it’s something that always comes with guilt.” He began to say glancing over to Sunday before looking back, “But you did what you could, you still got him out of there, and now he’s here and safe. Those people will get what’s coming to them, if not worse once we hear Sunday's side of things.”

The other didn’t utter anything, just simply nodded while he did take in the words there were still some parts Dan Heng had a hard time accepting. 

“Would you like a hug?” Welt asked, knowing the raven hair wasn’t much of a fan of them, but he looked like in need of one. It couldn’t hurt to ask.

“…yeah.” It was a quiet response, barely above a whisper and one Welt would've nearly missed if he wasn’t standing right next to him. 

Gently welt wrapped his arms around Dan Heng pulling him against his chest, the other didn’t recuperate merely just resting his head against the older man’s shoulder. Welt could tell how exhausted Dan Heng was if it was already evident by the bangs under his eyes and his more quiet stature, out of all of them he was the one to keep the most watch after Sunday. Spending long nights waiting and waiting, trying to make up for something that was out of his control.

“Everything’s going to be alright in time.” Welt mumered, again Dan Heng didn’t respond except for a small hum of acknowledgement.

One step at a time. 

Chapter Text

A couple days had passed since Sunday woke back up, the express crew keeping him company for the majority of the day. It was kind for them to do so, even though Sunday felt a little embarrassed and shameful for wasting their time.

Yet they never once complained. 

Since being awake as well Sunday was a little surprised they had yet to ask him what happened once, he thought by now they would ask a question or two but nothing was spoken. It could be because of a few different things, after all waking up after being asleep for almost a full week left him a bit dizzy from all the events, and he was still getting over a fever as well which didn’t help a lot.

But now when it was just him, himeko, and welt in the room, guess it was the best time to ask.

“If I may…” He began, his right wing fluttering a little trying to be mindful of his left one, “how come you haven’t asked me what happened? I had thought by now you might have asked me something about the events?” 

Welt and himeko blinked at him, a little surprised by the questions, the two sharing a look before himeko cleared her throat, “We didn’t want to bombarded you with loads of questions when you first woke up, especially not with how bad your fever was.” She explained placing her cup down, “We also didn’t know how comfortable you would be talking about it right after it happened.”

This time it was Sunday who blinked in bewilderment at that, they thought he would be…uncomfortable? 

“What happened to you was, a lot,” welt jumped in, must've noticed the expiression on Sunday's face, “we didn’t want to push or pry if you weren’t comfortable to talk about it yet. General Jing yuan does at some point want form a meeting with you to talk about what happened, but not until you’ve healed up a little more or whenever you felt ok to talk about it.”

Hearing that still felt…unrealistic to Sunday for some reason. To hear from people he admire say that they weren’t going to do or ask something unless he was comfortable with it…well actually he didn’t know how to feel. 

When it came to his father Gopherwood would always pry everything out of Sunday, whether that was reports, personal inquiries, and more. The man went to full lengths to always ensure to get whatever he wanted out of Sunday, some of those tactics being…physical. So to hear those words that he didn’t have to say anything until he was ready and people respected that almost made him laugh. 

Clearing his throat and adjusting himself a little, “I’m ready now to talk about it, thank you all though for respecting my well being.” Sunday said, fiddling with the blanket on his lap.

“Of course, it’s the least we could do. Before we do bring the general into this there is one big question we have to ask.” Himeko explained, folding her hands together before asking, “Was the reason these people went after you because of your status as a fugitive?” 

Sunday didn’t hesitate with answering, nodding his head, “Yes. From what I was told some people wish to see me executed, going so far as to put a bounty to bring me back.” He answered, casting his gaze down at his lap, “I don’t know if it was by any official status or asked privately because this man had another motive against me.” 

Once again welt and himeko shared a look, “and what was that?” This time it was welt who asked.

A long sigh left Sunday, “this man apparently was trying to make a business offer with me and father when I was younger and just started out as head family. From what he said it didn’t go well and he hit rock bottom,” Sunday paused for a brief moment, “but the thing is I don’t recognize that man at all, he mentioned he changed everything about himself because of what happened.”

“Did he give you his name?” Himeko inquired, moving up from her chair a little.

Sunday shook his head scoffing underneath his breath, “it’s ironic, he held such hatred for me but didn’t once tell me his name. You would think he would but I didn’t get anything…the people who worked for him just kept calling him boss so I…I don’t know.” Rethinking about it all it seemed ridiculous, going far out of the way to get revenge yet not revealing who you were.

There were a lot of people Sunday and Gopherwood made business deals with, and there were a lot of people they had turned down, possibly ruining their lives. He remembered every single offer, how the people hated the oak family for turning down an offer. Yet this man decided to change everything and thought because of that Sunday would just know? 

“If it helps his name is Brandon Migel, does that name ring any bells?” Once again Sunday shook his head, himeko hummed, “so he went as far to change his name as a whole too. I’ll let the general know that as well.” 

There was another concerning matter regarding his fugitive status. Sunday didn’t know how widespread it was since he had left penacony, at first he doubted anything would've been done about it but now he wasn’t so sure. Considering this Jing yuan fellow was a General, Sunday was a little concerned what the man might do to him if the full truth came out. 

Maybe he has yet to figure it out yet considering Sunday doubts he would be in such a clinic if the news broke out. But if they had already talked to that man…

“What about my status?” He whispered, worried someone from the outside might hear, “If this General Jing yuan finds out who I really am and why they were after me…wouldn’t it be his job to arrest me too?”

“We’ve already resolved that issue.” Himeko said the next second, a small smile warming its way onto her face.

What? 

The flabbergasted expression must’ve shown on Sunday's face as well, chuckling lightly, “let us explain.” 

——————-

Welt and Himeko were on their way to the Seat of Divine Foresight for a meeting with General Jing yuan. 

Welt the previous day was discharged from the hospital, lady bailu stating to him not to push his limits and take his medication daily. 

Sunday had still yet to wake up, it had already been three days since rescuing him, and through that time when they thought things had calmed down It only seemed to get more messy. The questioning with who they now identified as Brandon Migel was beyond chaotic, the man was unhinged everytime they tried to get some answers out of him, only spewing nonsense and his hatred for Sunday wishing he had killed him from the start. 

The whole interaction caused himeko's blood to boil but she had to remain calm, she knew the others felt similar so she opted for them to sit out for this meeting. Mentioned that Sunday would probably like the company if he should wake up today.

She hoped. 

As the two entered the room there General Jing yuan sat at his table, motioning them to come closer, “Good afternoon to you both, Mr. Yang, I'm happy to see you on your feet again.” He smiled softly, gesturing the two to sit down, “are the others not joining us?” 

“They're going to sit this one out. It’s been a chaotic few days so I thought it was best to give them a break.” Himeko explained, sitting in one of the chairs, welt joining her, “should they be here for this?”

Jing yuan shook his head, “no, actually I have a minor concern after talking to Mr. Migel.” His tone dropped a bit, holding a more authority to it, “I wanted to discuss with you all because I needed to hear it from myself and your reasoning.” 

Himeko and Welt shared a look, having a sinking feeling on what this was about.

“Is Mr. Sunday a fugitive?” Not beating around the bush the General asked, seeing how they both freeze up already gave away the answer, but he needed to hear it for himself.

“…Yes but you have to understand general,“ welt spoke hesitantly, sweat trailing down his face, “Sunday is not a bad person, what happened that led him to that was bad yes, but his heart wasn’t in a bad place. Since being with us he has grown, changed, and learned from his past mistakes and is walking forward on a new path.” 

Himeko also decided tojumped in, “Not once has Sunday weaved back into his old ways, I understand hearing that he is a fugitive sounds bad but I promise you he wouldn’t wish to hurt anyone here on the Loufo.” She tried to reason, understanding at first hearing that might set some alarm bells but they weren’t seeing the whole picture.

The general raised his hand silencing the both of them, taking a deep breath, “I believe you two.” He paused for a brief moment, seeing relief wash over their faces, “If Mr. Sunday wanted to do anything I’m sure he probably would have done so by now, and considering he has been with you all for a bit and none of you have been harmed I trust your words.” He said calmly, looking a bit more relaxed, “hearing it at first from an unhinged man was a little shocking, so I wanted to hear the truth.”

Himeko and Welt blinked at the general, a little confused, “so…you aren’t going to turn him in?” He asked, sounding a little unsure.

“Unless I have too then no, plus I think I would call myself a hypocrite considering I…” he trailed off remembering how he let blade escape, while it was for a different cause blade as well was still a fugitive yet Jing yuan still let him go, “I had to deal with something a bit similar, though for different reasons.”

The two express members let out a sigh, relaxing in their chairs a little more.

“But,” Jing yuan interrupted, “If I hear so much as a whisper stating Mr. Sunday is doing anything he’s not supposed to, I hope you understand that is when I will have to step in as General.” There was a small glint in those amber eyes, enforcing that he was not bluffing in any matter.

“We understand. But I trust Sunday has learned from his ways,” welt responded, looking at Jing yuan straight in the eyes, “I can vouch for Sunday, I personally witness him overcome his trials and struggles before leaving penacony, and it was me who brought him aboard. Trust me General when I say this, I would not have brought him if I didn’t think he had changed.” 

The room was quiet for a long moment, a slight tension in the air at welt determination on Sundays behalf. Until laughter broke out from Jing yuan, it was light hearted and warm.

After a moment Jing yuan collected himself again, “like I said I trust your words, that was more stating that if there was a time I am going to have to do my job.” He corrected himself, smiling fondly at how protective these two were over their younger crew members - it wasn’t the first time the general had seen this side of them.

After that the three of them talked more, Jing yuan stated he would still like to hear Sundays side of what happened, apologizing for what happened, and getting to see for himself what the halovians character was like. Of course though it would be saved when Sunday was up for it.

————————————

“That’s pretty much the story.” Himeko smiled finishing up, Sunday looking absolutely speechless that his mouth was hanging open.

It was really hard for Sunday to really…wrap his head around all of this. The general of the loufo wasn’t going to turn him in, even though he knew of his fugitive state, and was simply going to…let him be unless he caused trouble? Was that a standard thing that just happens or was Sunday just incredibly lucky?

Maybe some of Aventurine's luck had rubbed off on him. 

“I really…don’t know how to express all of this.” Sunday mumbled after a moment, still trying to wrap his head around it all, “So he really is just going to…let me stay with you all?” 

The two of them nodded, “Unless you show any harm to the citizens here, the general is willing to give you a chance.” Welt informed, looking directly at Sunday for this next part, “I know you have changed since you've joined us. But please keep in mind others don’t think the same way as us, so please be aware of yourself alright?” 

Sunday nodded understanding full well. Honestly it shouldn’t surprise him at all, hearing that he is a fugitive is obviously not going to shine the best light on him. While he wouldn’t want to hurt anybody - unless it was untimely necessary - Sunday knew where Welt was coming from.  

“Double checking” Himeko asked, pulling out her phone, “You're positive you're well enough to talk about what happened? We can always push it for a few more days if need be.” while she spoke in a gentle voice there was still some firm to it. 

“Positive Miss Himeko. Thank you for asking though.” Sunday responded, a small smile showing on his features. They really didn’t have to go through so much lengths or double check with him. Truthfully he didn’t think he deserved it.

Didn’t deserve any of this.

He’s already wasted so much of their time, so much planning they had, because of something that he still blames himself. Even when it’s so obvious it wasn’t Sunday couldn’t help but blame himself. 

Never admitting it outloud but a part of him also blamed himself for getting welt injured, his mind hissing at him he could’ve prevented that. Now the man who just a couple nights prior comforted him and Sunday didn’t deserve it. But as much as he felt guilty  he also felt reassured, cared for, making him feel safe, had pushed those other feelings aside for a little while. Because it was something he’s never really had before and he craved that reassurance as much as he hated to admit.

“Alright then I will contact the general about it.” Himeko words broke through his thoughts pulling him back to the task at hand, “but before I do we have something for you.” Her words were gentle as honeyed as glanced over to welt.

It took for the Old man a second to understand before he realized, shuffling under his coat before pulling out a familiar object.

His halo. 

Golden eyes stared widely at it, remembering how that man - Brandon - ripped it away from him, trying to break it. What people didn’t understand about a halovians halo that it is nearly impossible to break, simply throwing it to the ground wouldn’t make the thing shatter. Brandon didn’t understand that, because time and time again he threw it against so many things scratching and denting it. At some point he quite literally tried to rip it apart with his bare hands trying to ruin Sunday's image knowing a halo was almost as important as their wings, if not more important. 

No matter what he did it did not break, at some point Brandon had thrown it somewhere out of Sundays sight the last thing he remembered was how dirty it was, similar to him. 

But now…looking at it now however, it didn’t render a single scratch as it glinted in the sunlight.

Had they…fixed it for him? 

“We managed to find it in the corner of the wear-house.” Himeko explained seeing the different emotions running through Sunday's features, “I know how much you don’t like your clothes dirty and like things neat, so I thought it best to clean it to the best of our ability. I hope it is still alright.” 

“May I?” Welt held the halo up, asking permission to realign it. 

The halovian didn’t really know what to say, how to express any of this again. This was happening too much today and he didn’t know how to feel, he didn’t know how to feel that himeko knew he liked to keep things clean, thus having her clean his halo for his comfort. It wasn’t just her either, Sunday heard the word “our” meaning multiple people had cleaned and shaped it back to its elegant shine.

His eyes burned, hands trembling as overwhelming feelings that were so new to him came crashing down. These people…why did they care so much about him? How could they care so much about him? To do something only his sister would probably do for him? It was so familial on something he has lacked for such a long time. It was overwhelming yet he craved it because it felt so nice too to be cared for, to have people care about his needs for once in what was probably years. 

A voice would hiss at him later for it but for right now Sunday did not care.

“Sunday?” Welt asked again, a little concerned hearing no response after a long period of time.

The silver hair could only give a wobbly nod, knowing if he spoke tears would fall out from his eyes again. 

Ever so careful welt leaned over, gently placing the halo back behind Sunday's head. Almost like a magnet the halo aligns, and glows a small radiant light almost like a happy sign to be back where it belongs. The halovian didn’t also realize how much relief it would bring, seemingly to dull his pounding and fuzzy brain slightly. 

“T-thank you.” Sunday's voice was quiet and shaky, the sudden rush of relief and bliss being enough to shed a few tears from his eyes. The urge to hide behind his wings was there but he couldn’t because one of them was in a cast, so it was pointless to hide. 

Himeko stood up from her chair, walking over to Sunday's bed, “may we hug you?” She asked in that soft tone again, one that reminded him oh so painfully of his mother. He rather not unpack all of that now because he didn’t understand what that meant.

But he nodded, immediately arms wrapped around him from both his left and right side, it was gentle as they are reminded of his wounds. It was so warm, so comforting, so safe. 

Sunday didn’t deserve it, he didn’t, but aeons he felt safe. The tears he was fighting back couldn’t anymore as he wept, feeling childish but neither one of them judged him, instead they comforted him, wiped his tears away, and aeons it made him feel sick but also…loved.

It was complicated, not wanting to get into the hows and whys right now, just simply being coaxed and held was all he could handle at the moment, and he was content with that. 

Chapter Text

The meeting with the General was set the following day, stating that Sunday was clear enough to talk about what happened. The only request he had was for everyone in the express to be present, because he knew they all also had questions they desperately wanted answers to but didn’t want to pry.

It was only fair to finally give them those answers.

Sunday wouldn’t lie though about being nervous for this meeting. He didn’t know why, there really was no reason for him to be nervous, his only guess was because the only time he heard or seen anything about General Jing yuan was through articles and the fuzzy image of the man when he was rescued. Now he was supposed to talk to him about everything that happened.

Yes that was definitely the reason and nothing else more personal that he didn’t want to unpack once again. 

The others must’ve noticed it too, like how his fingers kept tapping, tapping, tapping away on his knee, yet they didn’t comment on it. Instead mostly March and Caelus tried to keep him occupied until the meeting started, talking about the different foods and sweets Sunday should try once he was discharged from the hospital. 

It was kind for them to do, and he indeed was interested in some of the items they had mentioned.

Just then three firm knocks came from the door, stilling Sunday's movement as a deep but gentle voice came from behind it, “This is General Jing yuan, is it alright for me to come in?”

Everyone had turned their heads towards Sunday waiting for him to respond, because ultimately this was the final decision he had to make if he was ready or not. It was a bit reassuring that no one was speaking for him and was patiently waiting, but there was also dread from this. 

After a moment Sunday cleared his voice, “Yes.” Was all he said making sure his voice didn’t hold any nerves to it. From the side Caelus squeezed his arm gently, grounding him. 

The door swung open, revealing a tall white hair male, adorned in armor and clothed, with an amber eye looking at him -considered the other was covered by his bangs - and a gentle smile. For as intimidating as his build was, his facial expression read nothing of it; it held a calming, warm, and no malice expression to it.

The man had reached his hand out to Sunday, a kind gesture of simply formalities, “It’s nice to meet you Mr. Sunday, how are you feeling?” He asked, the halovian trying to detect any lies or hatred towards him, yet there was nothing. 

You're being ridiculous just shake the man’s damn hand. 

So he did, Sunday reached out to return the gesture, “It’s nice to meet you too General, and I’m holding up.” He responded lightly, with a small smile, “Before we start I…I wanted to thank all of you for doing so much to rescue me. If there’s any way I can repay you all, please don’t hesitate to ask.” 

There was a slight flick on his arm, not enough hurt, Caelus shaking his head, “Sunny how many times do we gotta say this! You're one of us dummy, it's our job to help each other!” Smiling brightly, marching chiming in right next to him.

“Exactly! You don’t gotta keep saying you have to repay us every time, We're just glad you're ok and that’s what's important!” Her smile was almost as bright, giving Sunday a quick side hug. 

“What the others said, there is no need for repayment. It's the least we could've done to help you.” Dan Heng also added, though his facial expressions didn’t change, his voice held a soft and sincerity to it. 

A hand gently laid on top of his head, Immediately Sunday already knowing who it belonged to as it gave a light ruffle, “How about for repayment focus on getting better is enough to handle the bill. Sounds good?” Welt chuckled lightheartedly, himeko nodded on the sidelines with a smile.

Sunday face was beat red, and he couldn’t blame his fever this time since it had dwindled, bringing up his hand to cover some of his face. He cleared his throat, “O-ok…” mumbling, though a small guilt was there that he should be doing more after everything they’ve done…once he was better Sunday would amplify his chore list just to ensure.

From the sidelines Jing yuan had watched the crew with such fondness his smile had grown slightly wider. Whether that be from how caring and accepting the crew was to even someone like Sunday, who in previous times was their enemy, yet welcomed him with an open arm, or it ringing a slight nostalgia feeling inside.

Maybe it was the ladder. 

Placing a hand on his chest Jing yuan looked to Sunday once more, “I for one would like to apologize to you Mr. Sunday.” The halovian man stared at him wide eyed, baffled, “I heard this is your first time on the Luofu, and I sincerely apologize that things ended up like they did. As general it's my job to protect everyone who steps on this ship, so if there’s any way for me to improve your time here please don’t hesitate to ask.”

Was Sunday hearing this right? Was The General of the Xianzhous Luofu apologizing to him!? Many mixed emotions swam up in Sunday, mostly shame. Because this man shouldn’t have to apologize for his problems, his poor reflexes, and so much more.

It was Sunday's fault, no one else’s. 

“T-there really is no need for you to Apologize General.” Sunday stuttered, waving his hands, “Just because of what happened hasn’t dampened my first time here I promise you that. Despite everything I’m really glad to have come here…the Xinazhou Luofo has given me a new perspective of things and I really have enjoyed my time before…everything.” 

It wasn’t a lie, seeing so many new things while a little frightening at first was also so memorizing. The little tour Welt had taken on Sunday gave him a new feeling he hadn't really experienced before, seeing all the new sights, surroundings, foods, and more was truthfully thrilling. Maybe if he had known this was what it was going to be…Sunday should have taken Robin's offer to go visit other planets with her while she was on tour. 

“But thank you for the offer, though really there is no need.” 

March leaned into his ear, “you do know he’s the general right? Meaning he can get you anything !! Do you know how rare that is!?” She whispered, though everyone seemed to hear her from the small chuckles, Sunday merely rolled his eyes. 

“Yeah, even all the sweets we talked about! Bros like filthy rich!” Caelus chimed in backing up March; this time Sunday sigh shaking his head.

This seemed to perk the general up a little, “You're a fan of sweets?” It was a genuine question, but it earned a death glare from Sunday to Caelus who shrugged away in shame.

“…Yes,” Sunday barely spoke above a whisper, quickly clearing his throat, “but like I said you really don't have to do anything General, I’m perfectly content .” He emphasizes looking at both March and Caelus.

Welt had pulled the two away from Sunday bed, giving them a silent warning to mind their manners, Jing yuan couldn’t help but chuckle at the scene.

Getting back on topic, Jing yuan found a place to sit knowing that this next conversation was going to be lengthy, folding his hands together, “With all of that said, Mr. Sunday is it alright if I ask a few things about what happened a few days ago?” 

Taking a deep breath Sunday brought his attention back to the man, “yes, I’m ready to answer whatever you need me too.”

With confirmation Jing yuan began, “Can you remember the events that lead up to your kidnapping? Who was with you, what you and Mr. Yang were doing, and more?” They already had some insights on what happened from Welts perspective, but even he couldn’t recall all the events due to his head injury.

“Yes, Mr. Yang was giving me a small tour of the Luofo after meeting up with Yanqing, he had offered but I…I was a little anxious to accept.” Sunday began, once again tapping his fingers against his knee, “being on a new planet was overwhelming and I didn’t wish to be separated from the group with someone I just met, though I know he wouldn’t have done anything. This was just a personal thing.” 

Jing yuan nodded, he could understand where Sunday was coming, especially considering it sounded like he had never left Penacony from the small conversations he, welt, and Himeko had. Going to a planet you’ve lived your whole life to going to a place that was completely new was a lot, so sticking to someone that was familiar made sense.

“He took me to sightseeing, shops, and street markets to try new things. We were on our way to Aurum Alley?” Sunday continued briefly glancing over to Welt who nodded, “That’s when I saw from the side a man, who we later found out his name was Zhen, was struggling with some boxes.”

This was some new information, Welt couldn't fully remember what lead them to the Ambush, only slightly remembering that they were helping doing something before getting attacked, “Can you explain what you were doing? I’ve asked Mr. Yang already from his perspective of things but he doesn’t remember the reasoning on why or what you two were doing.” 

For a brief moment Sunday's eyes widened at that, he wasn’t given all the details on welt's injuries except he had to get stitches for his wounds. What Sunday was not made aware of was that the man suffered some memory loss of the events. 

You’ve couldev stop that, you should’ve been there, but no you let him get hurt and now look what’s happened. Stitches is already bad enough, but memory loss? You're completely hopeless. 

“Mr. Sunday?” Jing yuans voice cut through, there was a hint of concern, realizing he hasn’t responded yet.

“Apologies, that caught me a little off guard.” Sunday muttered, glancing over to welt, “I didn’t realize it was that bad…has there been anything else regarding your injuries?” He didn’t mean to change the subject, but now he couldn’t be at ease and needed to know what else he messed up on so he could apologize later.

The older man shook his head, “Nothing more than that and the stitches, so it’s not too bad.” That felt like an understatement to Sunday because he shouldn’t have been hurt to begin with if he’d done something about it, “There's just some information I can’t recall, other than that it hasn’t affected me.”

Sunday nodded, there was at least some relief to that but he still felt awful Welt had to deal with that to begin with. it would have to be a conversation they should save for later though, “I apologize again General, I didn’t mean to get off track to the question, what was it again?” 

Jing waved his hand, “There’s no need, If you ever need a moment for yourself please allow yourself to.” He said softly, when the halovian nodded Jing yuan adjusted himself a little, “The question was, can you explain what Mr. Zhen wanted the two of you to do?” 

“It wasn’t much, he mentioned that some of his employees were running late but needed the boxes loaded.” Sunday responded, grasping the blanket a little tighter, “So we helped him, after a bit Mr. Yangs knees started to act up so he had to rest…” 

“After that?” 

Taking a deep breath in trying to rid of the trembling his hands started doing sunday continued, “Mr. Yang ensure he would be alright, so I went alone with Mr. Zhen to retrieve the boxes…” he paused remembering after that how awfully close the man was to him, not realizing until now why that was.

It was odd for sure at the time, Sunday had a weird feeling about it but just pushed it aside, thinking it wasn’t anything.

Idiot. You should’ve listened, if you did none of this would’ve happened. 

“Wait, wait, wait— you were alone with that guy!?” March jumped in, looking slightly pale, “did he do anything to you when you were alone or anything like that?” 

Sunday shook his head, “Not really, though he was very close to me when we were alone.” Everyone around the room showed a little sign of discomfort knowing why, it was to ensure Sunday didn’t run away, almost seeming to know the ambush was about to happen, “He was starting to talk louder too than before and I guess…I guess that was because…”

“So you couldn’t hear them attacking me.” Welt deadpanned, feeling his stomach drop rubbing a hand over his face, “They thought I was you but Mr. Zhen was distracting you so they could set up again realizing it was someone else.” 

The room went silent for a moment, expressions of disdain, guilt, sadness filtering all through their faces that this was all a set up to begin with. They don’t know how they could possibly predict Sunday would’ve been at the loufo, they had to be stalking the halovian in some way in order to know that. Not only that but when Sunday got onto the loufo they were following him for a while too, they must’ve heard Welt mentioned about Aurum alley and set up there.

Sunday curled up on himself, everything crashing onto him that he was being followed for so long but didn’t sense anything. Then of course the moment he felt something was off was when he chose to ignore it.

You could’ve stopped it, you could've helped, but you didn’t because you are nothing but weak. 

“This is my fault.” Sunday spoke in a small voice, covering his face with his hands not being able to face the others, “I had an off feeling when Mr. Zhen was starting to get close to me, but I-I didn’t want to assume anything because it was my first time here.” His voice shook slightly, regret seeping into his bones, “It would have been wrong, I’m just a guest it isn’t my call for—“

A hand gently settled on his shoulders, causing him to flinch a little, interrupting his words, “Sunday can you look at me?” The voice was gentle asking this, not accusatory like he was expecting it to be. A part of him wished they were, he wished how they would yell at him this was all his fault, that he has to repent for his sins, or something like that it might make him feel better.

But it never came, just a quiet patient for Sunday to remove his hands. So he did, albeit very slowly still not having the nerves to face everyone. 

In front of him was himeko, she was looking at him with those honeyed eyes, “Sunday none of this is your fault. You couldn’t have possibly known that had been a set up, you were just trying to help.” She said keeping to that gentle but sturdy tone, her hand squeezing Sundays shoulder lightly, “No one is going to blame you for wanting to help, plus you had no evidence that Mr. Zhen was in all of this. You were the victim Sunday.” 

He wanted to retort back stating that he still should have done something, until a voice beside her spoke up.

“Miss himeko’s right.” Jing yuan spoke up, looking at him, “From what we’ve gathered so far these people have been following for quite some time, this was always their goal. Frankly it’s more worrisome what methods they have gone through in order to track you.” He sighed, “But also like she said you had no evidence to indicate he had other motives against you. You were just doing a simple task and thought nothing more of it, and that’s fine because that's what was instated.” 

The others chimed in as well with their own agreements how Sunday wasn’t at fault, that he was the last person to blame here. It felt odd, if this was anyone back at Penacony, mostly his father, the man wouldn’t hesitate insisting Sunday was at fault. It would lead him hours inside the church kneeling and repenting no matter what the issue was he was always to blame and had to pay the price. 

Now these people, who he fought against, nearly killed, and one person who he hasn’t even met before kept reassuring that he wasn’t to blame. That he was the victim, had gone through so much pain because of these people, and so on. Sunday didn't know how to respond, the fight seemingly leaving his body unsure of what else to say.

The voice always hissing in his mind seemed to have gotten a lot quieter too with this realization. The guilt was still there, he didn't think it would ever fully go away, but the weight of everything on his shoulders got a little lighter with their reassurances. 

After giving it some time to let Sunday recuperate himself the general spoke up once more, “Do you think you're able to continue?”

“Yes, I’m sorry for all the distractions I'll try to keep to the questions.” Sunday immediately responded, Jing yuan once again waving his hand dismissively.

“It’s fine Mr. Sunday, what you went through was a lot and realizing a lot of this new information is hard. Like I said earlier, if you need a break don’t hesitate to ask.” Jing yuan repeated, his words softly spoken. Once Sunday nodded the man continued with the questions, “After you went off with Mr. Zhen I’m assuming when you got back to that area that’s when you were attacked?” 

Once again Sunday nodded, “Yes, he was expressing his gratitude to us,” someone scoffed at the side but Sunday didn’t look who it came from, “but as we entered that open space again I noticed there were more people than before. At first I had assumed they were Mr. Zhen employees until…until I saw Mr. Yang on the ground - his head covered in blood.”

From the sides Welt clenched his hands into fists, his eyes turning downwards to the floor. He still felt ashamed at everything that unfolded, seemingly not being able to do anything at the time. Himeko standing next to him could read his expression, gingerly resting one of her hands onto his shoulders squeezing lightly to offer some comfort.

“Then?” 

The silver hair shook his head gently, being mindful of his wing, “I wasn’t given Much time to react, as soon as I saw Mr. Yang, they also knocked me out. I don’t remember anything in between that happened to me.” Sunday paused for a second bringing his eyes down to his lap, “The only next recollection I had was waking up in the facility.”

Jing yuan hummed, bringing out an electronic tablet typing everything down from what he had explained so far. Once done he looked back over to Sunday, “Before you explain the next part, I have a question for you Mr. Sunday.” Jing yuan asked gaining the halovians attention, “Is it right to assume the reason Mr. Migel went after you because of your status as a fugitive?” 

Sunday flinched a little, hearing that out loud from a general in such a calming voice felt a little surreal. Clearing his throat Sunday nodded, “Yes. I didn’t think the family would be that keen to send people after me, maybe I’m wrong just because of a few things or it could've been from a private organization, it wouldn’t be the first time.” He explained seeing how the others seemed a little shocked at that.

“Was this a normal occurrence even before you were a fugitive for people to come after you?” Himeko asked this question, looking a bit disturbed as Sunday shrugged.

“Not very often but every once in a while I was seek out. A lot of people didn’t like the Oak family for multiple reasons, so a lot of different factors would try anything to rid me and my father at the time since we were the heads.” He sighed not seeming bothered compared to everyone else, frankly it wasn’t that much of a big deal since they were in the dreamscape Sunday was heavily guarded so even when someone tried it didn’t get far.

The only instance someone got close enough to do anything to him was Gallagher. Maybe he should be thankful for that because the man did it for his own reasons that weren’t really malice, but still getting stabbed in the back was not fun. 

“That is also why Mr. Migel went after me, because apparently he was one of those people who hated me due to a conversation that happened.” Sunday continued sounding a bit frustrated, “But I don’t remember who he is ! Because he changed everything about himself and I’ve had millions of deals and conversations that went south yet he didn’t reveal his true name.” He expressed, throwing his hands up in the air - wincing a little from his wounds, “apologies.” 

“Don’t apologize! you have every right to be angry!” March exclaimed, placing her hands on her hips, “Honestly you outta everyone here should be mad because of something like that after everything he's done to you as well! I’m pissed off for you!” 

“Agreed.” Dan Heng chimed in, crossing his arms over his chest, Caelus also jumping in saying “Same here!” 

The others as well as surprisingly Jing yuan also joined in nodding along with what was being said. 

Sunday didn’t know what to say to that, yet again everyone in this room rendered him speechless by their words, “A-Anyway, how I woke up was a bit…abrupt, they had splashed water onto me deeming it the most efficient way.” He decided to continue leveling himself again, “Mr. Migel wasn’t there yet, the other people there mentioned he was on a business call or something of those odds but didn’t explain further. They kicked me a couple times and broke my nose when I was trying to take my gag off.”

Everyone grimaced slightly at that last part but otherwise didn’t make another comment. The General continues to type every detail on his holographic tablet.

“I don’t remember the exact timing when he came in, though he sure didn’t waste his time wanting to make me bleed.” Sunday let out a shaky sigh, glancing down at some of his bandaged wounds. 

“Do you need a moment Mr. Sunday?” Jing yuan asked, sensing the hesitance coming from the halovian knowing the next few parts weren’t the easiest to talk about. 

However Sunday shook his head, taking another deep breath, “No, the quicker I explain the better.” A brief pause as his fingers continued their tapping from earlier, “He used those metal claws on me a lot , creating all sorts of gash wounds on me, I’ve lost count how many times but seeing my body being covered head to toe in bandages…it must’ve been a lot.”

Continuing on with the gruesome details Sunday explain of how he was tossed around the room like a rag doll, how his ankle got broken, how they would pluck feathers out of his wings, and how every time he tried to rest they would throw water onto him - eventually adding salt to it as well. 

As he was explaining everyone in the room could feel the dread that layered the more he talked about how the injuries came to be. At one point March had to excuse herself not being able to stomach some parts of Sunday's explanations, himeko joining her outside to assist in any way she could. Eventually though they had returned, March having a bit more color to her, though Sunday felt bad for causing that even when she said not to worry about it.

The more he explained as well, the more Sunday's body started to tremble again, his voice stuttering, as his eyes burn and glisten with tears. They had asked him again at some if he needed a break yet Sunday still declined.

Just get it over with, the faster you go the quicker it’ll be done, and you’ll stop wasting all their time with your talking. 

“There were a lot of times he cursed me out, s-said how he couldn’t wait to see me dead but…” Sunday spoke his body shaking more at the memory of the man’s word, “But there was one point he w-whispered to me that if circumstances were different he…he would have built a golden cage for m-me to put me in to t-teach me a lesson and something else I-I don’t wish to repeat…” He sniffled, remembering the feeling of the man’s breath on his ear how venomous his words were, how much it made him feel sick. 

Everyone gasp at that, either looking very disturbed or livid with what Sunday had said.

“Hey said what !?” Caelus shouted, causing Sunday to jump a little - instantly regretted it, “sorry I just— the nerve of that guy! Saying shit like that is all kinds of wrong and disgusting!” 

“Aeons I couldn’t even imagine having to hear that while also…I-I’m so sorry Sunday.” March’s voice shaked, her stomach once again turning inside and out. 

Himeko's eyes were wide, her fists clench trying her best to keep her composure despite being just as angry. Wishing now she didn’t hold back and gave that man a couple more swings. Dan Heng was in a similar state but his shoulders were slightly shaking with how angry he was. 

Out of all of them though, Welt seemed the most enraged, his bangs casting a dark shadow over his eyes, his mouth set in a thin frown, as his hands clenched his cane so hard they started to shake. He was deadly quiet while his brain was conquering all sorts of things of how he wished he beat that man to a pulp, or how he wished he was there to begin with, that he wasn’t able to help . 

The shaking didn’t stop, Sunday's breathing also picking up as he curled in on himself, “C-Can we take a break-?” His voice sounded strained as his one wing flapped anxiously, the sudden overwhelming feeling getting to the best of him remembering that moment.

Ridiculous, it was an empty threat, stop panicking. 

“Of course, would you like me to step out of the room?” Jing yuan asked, putting away his tablet, when Sunday nodded he stood up, “Let me know when you're ready to continue.” He said softly before exiting.

Everyone's expressions melted immediately seeing the state Sunday was in, the trio huddling next to Sunday on the bed to offer some support and comfort.

“Is there anything we can do?” Caelus asked the bite in his tone a few minutes ago completely vanished.

The silver hair shook his head, “I-I don’t know, I think I just need to be alone for a bit everything’s just a bit..too much. I apologize.” He confessed quietly shrinking in on himself more, he felt guilty for pushing them away, felt embarrassed he was feeling like this to begin with because he really shouldn’t.

But currently everything just felt too much, he felt like he was reliving everything again not to mention the new information he learned earlier. It was stupid he was acting like this, he used to be so good at handling anything he could take on so many tasks at once, used to handling so many disputes at once, yet this was making him overwhelmed?

Pathetic. 

Everyone complied, one by one heading out of the room to allow the space Sunday needed. Welt looking back one more time at the halovian before gently closing the door behind him. 

Once everyone was gone Sunday fully curled in on himself, shielding his face with his hands trying to scrub away the tears that finally fell. This was nothing, he’s heard way worse from people even at a young age, yet somehow this was shaking him up even more?

It’s because you’ve fallen from THEIR grace, from THEIR protection, you unfaithful brat. You were untouchable because of THEM, now THEY are not here anymore, meaning no one will save you. Meaning you are not untouchable anymore because you fell astray. 

Sunday breath hitch, nausea creeping up his throat, his thoughts spiraling making his body shake more violently as a broken sob broke loose.

Because it was true .

After he fell, after he'd stepped away as the oak family head, as a child of order, he felt like a new person. A new person that did not have that protection anymore, didn’t have the same routine anymore, didn’t have to constantly be perfect because no one was forcing him yet the need was still there. In some eyes people saw that as a good thing, but Sunday found it terrifying to leave the cage he had been trapped in for so long to spread his broken wings into the unknown.

And look where that got you, maybe you should go back into that cage and rot, it’s what you deserve. 

He wanted the thoughts to stop, it was all too loud for him to handle. 

‘Please make it stop.’

Beg for it. Repent for your sins, just like you did when you used to be faithful. 

Ever so slowly Sunday folding his hands together, bowing his head as underneath his breath he whispered a prayer, “Please forgive me, I shall repent for my falsehood and sins, Please forgive me.” 

Chapter Text

Outside of Sunday's room the express crew plus General Jing yuan stood in a tense silence after hearing the sickening new discovery of what that man had said to Sunday, plus the overall information the halovian had given them, despite already hearing his injuries list actually hearing it from Sunday  made them all feel sick.

“General, are you sure we can’t just beat the guy up some more? Even just a tiny bit?” Caleus asked, his hand itching to take a few swings with his trust bat at that bastard.

The white hair male sighed shaking his head, “I understand that your frustrated, trust me I too am not keen in hearing what that man said to Mr. Sunday,” he spoke carefully, knowing how protective this crew was with one another, “But attacking him while he’s already arrested and going to serve for his crimes will only put you in a bad light as well. However with what Mr. Sunday has already given us, I can guarantee that the odds are not in his favor - frankly they weren’t to begin with, but he will get severe punishment for this.” 

“Good.” Dan Heng hissed, the first word he spoke in quite some time, a deep frown on his face, probably the top 5 most expressive Jing yuan ever seen on the man.

“It makes me sick people like that are out there, makes me even sicker that maybe…maybe it isn’t the first time Sunday has been told something like that, he said it with barely any hesitation so I can't help but wonder....” March spoke sadly, glancing back at the door, knowing what Sunday status used to be and how much bad attention it brought, it wouldn’t be too shocking. She wanted to rid the thought from her mind but now it felt ingrained.

Welt didn’t say anything on the matter, because he didn’t want to state that what march said was true. It was late at night and welt was getting water when he spotted Sunday in the corner of the party car weeping. Of course Welt being Welt he went to go check on him, the two of them talked, Sunday explaining having nightmares of old conversations with past people how they would get too close , sometimes handsy, and whisper diabolical things and didn’t even try to hide it from Sunday. It disgusted and broke Welt having to hear that Sunday dealt with that even when he was a child , how he wished he could rewind time so he never had to deal with that.

Because he also knew from the slip up Sunday confessed to him that his “Father” didn’t do anything to help him. No, instead he had blamed Sunday for all of that, punishing him for “daring to put those thoughts into other people's minds” or some crap like that. So he was utterly alone, just like he was utterly alone back at that facility, having to deal with that all over again. All he could think about now was how he was to blame for it this time. 

“I'll be back.” Welt announced, briskly walking past everyone before they could utter another word to him, footsteps echoing down the hallway.

No one said anything for a moment, unsure of what to do, Himeko finally took the initiative as she started heading the same way, “Let me go talk to him, we’ll be right back.”

Outside of the clinic welt spotted a nearby bench, walking over he sat himself down letting out a long sigh as he ran a hand through his hair. A small pain formed in his head but he chose to ignore it, with everything that was happening inside his head a little pain was the least of his worries. 

Leaning forward Welt stared at his shoes, a small thought crossed his mind one he didn’t believe fully but the fact it was there and a thought he created , made him feel terrible.

Was he like him? Because he didn’t help either? 

Soon enough another pair of shoes popped into view, though they were wearing high heels. He glanced up and to no surprise it was Himeko, smiling sadly down at him, “Room for one more?” The older man merely nodded, Himeko taking the spot next to him. 

The two didn’t say anything for a few minutes, the warm breeze and soft rustling from the tree behind them making the only sounds as they sat.

“I can tell you still blame yourself for this.” She finally spoke, yet not looking at him, her head still looking straight.

Another sigh left him, shoulders shagging as he took off his glasses, “it’s hard not to, especially after hearing that and how he got all those injuries. I didn’t want to say outload but what March had said was…true.”

“...I suspected as much.” She said hesitantly, though her hands clenched on her dress, “I’m not surprised with his title back then a lot of different crowds form, unfortunately those types of people being one of them. I couldn’t even imagine, then having to relive that again…I can’t help but also feel guilty.”

Amber eyes glance over to the red hair, before looking back down this time as his hands, “I feel regret, I should've done more to help out, I’m sorry I couldn't do more for you, or him, or any of them.” He apologized, his chest tightening with shame .

At that himeko finally looked down at welt, a sadness shining in her eyes, “Welt, you were injured you had to get sixteen stitches in your head after the blow they dealt you.” She spoke softly, “If anyone has to apologize it should be me, I know you wanted to help but…I didn’t want to risk seeing you hurt again. It was selfish of me to say it back then, my protectiveness can sometimes be a little overbearing.” She paused for a moment, “I know we’ve had a lot of tough times, and I know we’ve been through worse fights that nearly took both of our lives…but I don’t know, I just couldn’t bear risking losing two companions if things went south.” 

Welt didn’t know how to respond for a moment, his gaze still fixated on his hands. He couldn’t blame Himeko, he never would, because she had a right to do that - considering how his state was even if he wanted to he probably couldn’t fight and focus in that condition, hell he barely could think at all with the painful pounding against his skull. Besides if he saw how Sunday looked back in that facility frankly he didn’t think he would hold himself back, and he rather not show that side of him to the youngsters. 

“You were right to make that call, plus I knew you guys would get him back. I just—” he didn’t know how to explain this next part, something he hasn’t yet confessed to anyone, “…Sunday reminds me of my son a little bit. Maybe that’s wrong for me to say, but I just can’t help but think about it, so when I heard what happened, of course my first instinct was to help despite being injured.” 

“I don’t think that’s wrong at all, from the few times you talked about him to me I get it. I can also see similar connections.” Himeko hummed, folding her hands in her lap, another breeze blowing past them. 

“The thing is, Sunday has told me some things about his “Father”, I won’t go into full details because that’s not my story to tell but he was an awful man and treated Sunday horribly.” Welt clicked his tongue, his blood boiling a little every time Gopher wood was brought up, “When Sunday told us what that man said it reminded me of a conversation we had and something similar happened, and how his ‘Father’ didn’t do anything . Then an awful thought crossed my mind…because I wasn’t there, am I just doing the same thing…?” 

Hands grabbed his face immediately pulling him upwards, himeko's face inches away from his - surprising him a little, “Absolutely not! Welt yang you are nothing like that man. You said earlier how you felt like you could've done more for everyone but you’ve already done so much !” She exclaimed, Himeko didn’t know a lot about Gopherwood, only the few books she read about him and the few times Sunday spoke to her about him when he needed to let some things out of his chest. 

Welt was nothing like him, if there were two sides of a pole gopherwood would be on one side while Welt would be on the complete opposite. 

“You said earlier how you wish you could've done more for everyone, yet you’ve already done so much to help.” Himeko continued finally letting go of Welts face, “Despite being injured like always you lended a hand to the others, you comforted them when they needed it most, offering them a space where they could breath after all the chaos. Hell you even asked me if I was ok even when you didn’t have too.”

All he could do was merely blink Himeko while she kept talking, unable to form any sentences before getting cut off, washing away his doubts.

“Then when you finally got discharged you stood by Sunday's side, checking his fever, making sure his ankle was elevated, combing his hair, you even helped fix his halo, and of course so much more. But you still made sure to be there for the others when they needed it too, like taking them out to lunch, playing games, listening to them,” a small smile, a genuine one, broke on her face, “I could go on forever you know.”

A stifle laughter broke from welt at that, waving his hand, “I get it, I get it.” He smirked, placing his glasses back on, “Thank you Himeko, I needed to hear that.”

She nodded, “There’s always more than one way to help people, sometimes it can be physical help and sometimes it can be mentally. You sir check both of those marks, and If I ever hear you say your Gopherwood again I’ll make my ‘famous’ curry with your name on it!” Smiling brightly knowing very well anytime she cooked welt immediately was out of sight.

A chill ran down his spine, “noted.” Another chuckled left him, leaning back against the bench, the worries, shame, and guilt much smaller now, “you as well.”

“Hm?”

“You also check those two boxes off.” Welt nudging himeko, smirking slightly, earning a small laughter from the red hair.

“Thank you Welt.” She said earnestly, standing up from the benching offering her hand, “Wanna head back in?”

The older man nodded, grasping onto the hand hoisting him upwards. Welt feeling a little lighter than he did before, what himeko said to him brought peace of mind.

The two of them heading back inside of the building, when they regrouped only Jing yuan stood outside - greeting the two with a small smile.

“Where did the others go?” Himeko asked, noticing the missing trio.

The general inclined his head back towards the door, “while you two were away Mr. Sunday said he was well enough for us to come back in.” He informed them, glancing at the two before back at the door, “I decided it would be best to wait until you two got back so I remained out here, the other three however wasted no time with going back in.” The smile on his face grew a little more from the exchange, “How are you two doing by the way?”

Welt and Himeko looked at each other, sharing a look before looking back at Jing yuan, “Yes, we had a little talk and feeling a bit better than earlier. Thank you for asking the General.” 

The man nodded, “Of course, I know sitting through all of that can’t be easy to listen, hearing the gruesome details and other information about what happened to your companion…” he exhaled, having gone through similar conversations whether it was from injuries Yanqing got from the war dance, or when he was told what happened to Baiheng, and then…

Shaking his head from those thoughts Jing yuan brought his attention back to the two, “If you’re ready to head back in we can.” 

The others nodded, welt approaching the door and knocking on it three times, “Gang? We're back, is it alright if we come in?” A few hush voices could be heard on the other side of the door.

“Y-yes.” It was Sunday who responded, voice a little wavy but not like before, it almost sounded like he was trying to hold back a laugh? 

Welt slowly opened the door, inside the room the trio once again was on the bed with Sunday, March on the right, Caelus on the left holding his phone in front of Sunday, while Dan Heng was leaning on the wall next to Caelus. All seemingly to be watching something on the grey hairs phone, causing Sunday face to be a beat red.

A chuckle came from behind him as Himeko entered the room, “what did you three do this time? Sunday's face is almost the same color as my hair.” She teased lightly, though it was nice to see the halovian brighter spirits compared to earlier.

“Nothing!” Caleus sputtered, placing his phone down, “We  know Sunny was upset, so putting on funny videos usually helps him feel better!” He sputtered, glancing back at Sunday who looked like he was fighting for his life not to laugh, “ok I did not know you look like a red balloon right now-“ 

“Breathe Sunday, breathe!” March clutched both of Sunday's shoulders, shaking him gently, finally managing to get the halovian to release air.

A light laughter escaped Sunday's lips, trying his best to keep it in but couldn't go any further. What was surprising to everyone was the few chirps they heard. Immediately Sunday covered his mouth with his hand, face turning a bright red again as everyone stared at him wide-eyed.

“Did you just chirp ?” Caelus asked, sparkles forming in his eyes as a cat like grinned sprung on his face.

“N-no I did not.” Sunday stuttered, casting his gaze anywhere else than Caelus.

“Nooo don’t be embarrassed! We just got you to cheer up! It was really cute too!” March beamed finding this new secret about Sunday adorable, “I didn’t know halovians could chirp!”

“Do you make other bird noises—“ a hand thwacked the top of Caelus hair, Dan Heng sighing from behind him, “Don’t even think about it Caelus.” 

“Owww! I wasn't!” 

The three older adults watched with amusement from the side lines as the four continued on with their small teasing with one another. The room felt so much lighter and warm compared to how it was when they left with how much tension and unease was in the air, it felt like a completely different perspective.

It was nice to see Sunday enjoying himself again.

“Anyway-!” Sunday interrupted the chatter, his left wing puffing up, “I apologize again for taking a while General, I know you must be busy so I don’t wish to take up much more of your time.”

A soft chuckle left the Generals lips as he waved his hand dismissively, “Please Mr. Sunday there's no need to apologize. I had cleared my schedule for the rest of the afternoon anyway because I suspected this may take a while, so please don’t worry.” He said reassuringly, sitting back in the chair he sat in earlier pulling out his holographic tablet once more, “are you ready to continue?” 

The silver hair nodded, this time around the other three remaining by his side offering silent support, “I don’t think there’s much to talk about after he had…said that to me.” He mumbled that last part, March squeezing his shoulder lightly.

“After that he mentioned a ship was on its way to pick me up to take me back to Penacony.” He continued, inquor eyes looking over to Caelus, “But before it had arrived that’s when I saw Caelus, and then soon after is when you all came to rescue me. Beyond that I don’t remember much, mostly just fuzzy memories of Caelus and Miss himeko.” 

Jing yuan nodded, typing up the last of it, “are there any other details you wish to share or are comfortable with?” 

Sunday pondered about it for a second or two, he didn’t think there was more to add, whatever needed to be said had been. The only thing that had unsettled him was how they managed to track him for such a long time, “Were you able to figure out how they tracked me? I still can’t really wrap my head around it.”

This time it was Himeko who stepped in to explain, “The best thing we can go off on is your phone, there is a way people are able to track it without the user’s knowledge.” She explained, pulling out her own device to showcase, “It's a shockingly easy feature if you know how to do it, we know of a hacker girl who doesn’t even need to try in order to track someone’s phone.”

That didn’t really bring him the most comfort but he guessed he could understand. With this day in age and how technology had sky rocketed it shouldn’t have shocked him. He actually thinks Robin had mentioned to him one point about getting protection on his phone for such things but in the dreamscape it’s not like it would have mattered. 

Considering he never left so there was no point.

“So to take precautions we are getting you a new one, your other one was basically smashed to pieces anyway. Which only further proves our point that they were probably trying to hide that.” She continued, clicking her tongue in annoyance at that last part, “We're going to get you a new phone number as well as a VPN to ensure that this won’t happen again in the future.” 

Sunday nodding, knowing it was necessary for his own protection considering now who knows who else was after him if there was anyone else. Though he wouldn’t say it out loud he would miss his old text messages especially ones with his sister…

Aeons he still needed to talk to her about everything at some point, should he even tell her? If he said nothing then there was no reason to worry or burden her. But it had been a while since they last spoke. He tried to text her at least once a week but…

Just stay quiet, you used to be always good at that and didn’t have to burden anybody. But now look at you, you pathetic excuse for a brother, don’t add her to the list. 

After a while with some more talking with General Jing yuan, deciding with all the information he got it was time for him to depart. Mentioning how he would handle the rest of this situation, that the crew could relax, and once again wished Sunday a speedy recovery. 

Even when the white hair male was gone there was still a lot of uneasiness happening inside of Sunday for multiple reasons. It must’ve shown because at some parts in different conversations the crew tried to include him in he had seemed distant. Concern was evident on their faces but he didn’t call them out on it, he couldn’t when there was so many things swirling around in his head. 

“Sunny?” Caelus called out, it had been the second time he did that in the span of five minutes.

The halovian looked up from his lap, “hm? Apologies I…I must’ve spaced out again.” He mumbled, “I may be getting tired, it’s been a long day.” A half lie, it had been a long and emotional day and while he was tried once again he needed to be alone.

Everyone glance at one another, seemingly understanding, “It has been a long day, so we’ll let you get some rest.” Welt said gently, March and Caelus sliding off the bed as they all began to make their way out of the room.

Sunday glance to them, specifically at welt a burning question he needed from the man in regards of earlier, the guilt eating away at him, “actually— Mr. Yang could I…could I speak with you for a moment?” 

This immediately got the attention of the brown hair, nodding before stepping back into the room, closing the door behind him, “Everything alright?” He asked gently, sitting himself next to Sunday's bed.

The question made him want to laugh, because no he felt so much dread after today, even though he shouldn’t. He should've felt relieved knowing those people wouldn’t ever touch him again, and that the express crew was doing so much for him to protect him. But yet he still felt so wrong, guilty, and so many more emotions he didn’t know how to describe yet.

Pale fingers dance on his lap trying to think how to go about this, because he didn’t want to accuse welt for keeping things away from him. He probably had his reasons but…hearing it out of the blue wasn’t a great feeling.

“I thought you mentioned that…that you only got stitches after your attack, and I apologize this may seem rude to ask but…why didn’t you tell me some of your memory was erased from it?” He asked quietly, keeping his eyes trained on his lap.

The older man's eyes widened at the term, erased is a strong word to use for him personally considering it was more of just not remembering some events. Although he could understand where Sunday was coming from since how he found out was a spring of the moment. 

“It’s not rude at all, I can understand why you would feel upset finding out the way you did.” Welt kept his tone even, “I’m sorry I didn’t explain more, at the time I didn’t feel it important since it was only for a few things I couldn’t recall, and compared to your injuries I was more worried about you.” 

Sunday nodded softly, his eyes not leaving his lap as his fingers continued to tap away, “I guess that’s fair I apologize again I just…” he whispered, his left wing flapping softly, “I don’t know. But do you promise that there are no other injuries or any other memory problems?” He asked once more, it was ridiculous to ask so many times but after what happened when Robin got shot…he just had to be sure. 

A part of him wanted to use his odes of harmony to really see if Welt was telling the truth. He hated it and shoved that thought in the deepest depth of his mind hoping it would never resurface. 

Welt lightly knocked on his head, “I promise. I may be old but my memory is still working well. Lady Lingsha explained that it can happen with enough brute force to the head.” He explained seeing some of the tension leave Sunday shoulders, “but other than those few moments I can still recall a lot of things clearly.” 

Once again Sunday had nodded, running a head through his hair as he finally looked over to welt, “Ok, thank you for being honest, and I apologize again for asking so much reassurance.” He sighed, relaxing a little more against his pillows, “You’ve already done so much for me, even going so much out of your way to get me a new phone and everything. Yet here I am asking for reassurance constantly and giving nothing back in return.” 

Weak. 

There was a little dip towards the end of the bed. Welt looking right at him with a gentle sadness, “Sunday if you ever need any reassurances then we are more than happy to give that to you. You don’t have to repay us for something like that,” there was sincerity in his tone as he spoke, “And it’s only natural to take precautions especially after something like this, we would’ve done the same for the others too — actually we have before.” 

This got Sunday to perk up a little, curiosity getting to the best of him, “You have?” 

planet for supplies, while we were there we split off into groups and Caelus and March 7th went together.” 

“I can already tell where this is going.” The halovian chuckled lightly.

“Let’s just say, one thing led to another and the two of them got into something they really shouldn’t have. Almost gang member type level dangerous.” This had Sunday's jaw drop hearing that because it was the last thing he expected.

“Are you joking?” ok maybe he didn’t know where that was going, to hear that was almost as bizarre as the other stories the trio has told them. 

“Oh trust me I wish I was, it was all a mess to deal with. We figured out they had been tracking their phones to get back at them.” He groaned, rubbing his temple, remembering also the sobbing mess the two of them were, “so we had to handle that ASAP before things became more chaotic, luckily it was handled before that came to pass. Himeko gave them one hell of a lecture.” 

Sunday could picture Himeko going on and on about different forms of things while lecturing the two, and while she may have been a little angry she was probably more worried than anything. It was something he had picked up about her, while she may be showing one emotion on the outside there was another one hiding underneath it within. Sunday was able to pinpoint it a couple times since his kidnapping as well. 

“Point is–” Welt cleared his throat, getting to his point, “We don’t do these types of things to expect anything in return. We do it because it's our job to make sure you all are safe so we arrange any means necessary to ensure that.” the older man gave a small smile towards the silver-haired male, “That includes you.” 

A small red formed on Sunday's cheeks as he looked back down at his lap. Once again Sunday was second guessing himself on how he got lucky with meeting such people, people who genuinely want to take care of him and expect nothing in return - it felt so odd. It was something he was still trying to accept, that not everyone was trying to gain something from him by playing nice, but after the life he has lived it wasn’t something he could overnight. 

As much as he wished he could, Gopher wood really ingrained that into his brain that people are always out to get something.

“Thank you Mr. Yang, I greatly appreciate everything you and the rest have done for me. Especially earlier when I had that little meltdown, I’m sorry about that again.” He said softly, running his hands over one another anxiously. He was still very embarrassed by that, especially having it in front of the general. 

“You don’t have to apologize for that, it was more than understandable that something like that would make you upset.” Welt said reassuringly, his heart breaking a little that Sunday felt the need to apologize for something like that, “No one blames you, you needed space and we respect that. I’m so sorry again you had to hear something like that as well, again.” 

The halovian shrugged at the last part, still thinking he had overreacted how he handled, though nothing could be done about it now, “It’s alright. I don’t know why I reacted the way that I did, I’ve been told those comments - or at least similar comments, since I was perhaps…15? I’m not sure why this time it affected me so badly…” he confessed slightly, feeling like Sunday could at least express his emotions with welt.

Somehow when it was only them, Sunday would slip out a thing or two about his past, the two of them would talk about it, and Sunday would then become a sobbing mess. Because in welts words, the things he went through and endured aren’t normal or healthy , and the realization of that broke Sunday a bit. Those comments he had to hear over and over again by people way older than him, saying they wanted to do things to him, was not normal and he shouldn’t have been told any of that.

The only reason he did was because of gopher wood, saying that he was causing those thoughts so he had to put up with it. That it was his punishment to endure.

Everytime he mentioned it, Sunday noticed the shift in welts emotions. Seeing the sadness in his eyes from hearing how much he had to endure at such a young age and onwards, but behind that was a tiny bit of rage. 

“It shouldn’t have to be something you get used to ,” Welt emphasized, his words gentle but firm, “what those people say is disgusting and awful. It doesn’t matter what situation you’re in, you're still allowed to be upset and revolted. And again no one would blame you for it, frankly everyone was pissed after you mentioned it but it was towards them.” 

That got Sundays eyes to widen a little, he knew welt got mad about those comments from those people, and he saw a little bit when he first mentioned it from the others but it was still…shocking.

To go from people blaming him for having those thoughts - which wasn’t true in the slightest, to then having people support and be mad for him was something very new. It caused a little tightness in his chest to grow, because yet again the astral express crew was showing such kindness to him that he really didn’t deserve it.

He opened his mouth to try to say something but nothing came out, a little speechless from what he heard. 

Seeing this welt gently reach out his hand to place on Sunday's shoulder, “you're not alone anymore Sunday. you’ve got people here who want to support you and care about you. I know sometimes you see the difficulty in that but I’m being honest.” Welt spoke, his tone going back down to that softness, “I’ll repeat that as many times as you need.” 

Sunday didn’t know what to say, his voice seemily trapped in his throat unable to get anything out. His eyes burned yet he forced himself not to shed a tear, he’s already done so much crying in these past few days than he probably should. 

He weakly gave a nod to show he understood what welt was saying, even when a voice hissed at him to stop being so weak that he didn’t need help. But Sunday knew he wasn’t in Penacony anymore, he wasn’t the head of the oak family anymore so there was no need to bottle his emotions, Gopherwood wood also wasn’t around to punish him either…

 On the express Sunday could vent out his frustrations or sadness with the express and they would listen to him. They actually cared for what he had to say and also gave him comfort, something he hasn’t received since he was a very young child. It felt so odd, and a part of him felt bad, but Aeons he appreciated more than they could know. The fact welt was here saying he would repeat and reassure that he wasn’t alone made him feel cared for. 

Finally able to find his voice Sunday finally produced a quiet, “Thank you…I don’t really know what else to say.”

A small smile formed Welts face, “It’s ok you don’t have to.” He reassured, squeezing his hand just slightly on Sunday's shoulder, “Is there anything else you want to talk about?” 

There actually was one thing in regards to… her . Sunday wasn’t sure if anyone has yet told Robin about what happened to him, frankly he hoped not since that should be his job.

“Have…Have any of you told my sister what happened?” The question seemed to shock welt a little, but the brown hair man shook his head.

“Not yet, we wanted to see if you wanted us to tell her or not. Considering she’s your sibling it felt only right.” Welt paused for a moment, “Do you want us to tell her?” 

Sunday shook his head, “No I’ll talk to her, like you said she’s my sister and as her older brother it should be my job to tell Robin about these things. I just hope I don’t burden her too much.” 

“You won’t, I’m sure any text you send her she’s greatly appreciated.” Hearing what welt said made Sunday's chest twist a little more but didn’t comment on it, “Would you be up for it tomorrow?” 

“Yes but um about my phone—“

“Don’t worry we already ordered a new one yesterday we just had to set up the VPN so rest assured.” Welt chuckled lightly, raising his hand to ruffle Sunday's hair, the halovian flushing more.

“Thank you again, I…I really do appreciate everything you’ve all done for me. I wish I could do more to show it.” He murmured.

“There’s no need, focus on getting better, that's all we can ask for you right now.” Welt smiled over to Sunday who smiled a little back.

“Alright, I am pretty exhausted now so I think I’ll get some rest.” Sunday yawned, welt taking the cue to get up from the bed as the halovian could get more comfortable.

“Sounds good, have a good night Sunday, Dan Heng should be back in an hour, and we’ll see you tomorrow.” He hummed walking over to the door, flicking the lights off, before heading out.

That night Sunday could feel himself resting a little more easily. 

Chapter Text

The following day Himeko woke up extra early to go retrieve Sunday's new phone. Last night when welt came back he told her that Sunday wished to talk to Robin about what happened, meaning she also had to contact Robin Sundays new phone number. 

She wouldn’t lie and say she was a bit nervous about this talk, because Himeko knew how protective Robin was over Sunday. After he had joined the express himeko would never forget the paragraphs of lists Robin had sent her to ensure Sunday was comfortable because she had known Sunday wouldn’t talk about his needs to them.

It was a bit bittersweet, knowing how much Robin cared for her older brother and yet…yet the two of them couldn’t see each other for who knows how long. Sunday didn’t mentioned a lot about the deal between them and lady Bonajade, all they did known was that Sunday was to not step a foot in penacony again, to find a new path for himself, but the saddest part was the two siblings also weren’t allowed to see each other because of this deal.

The red hair would always remember how heartbroken Sunday looked when they had told him that part, the most they could communicate was through text and letters. Not even calling was allowed which himeko thought was bizarre and just all in all upsetting. Considering how close the two of them used to be and how they spoke fondly of each other. 

Now their communication was reduce to this, and it would be even more heartbreaking knowing Robin couldn’t come to see Sunday while he was recovering…

After retrieving the phone instead of going back to the hotel to tell Robin the news she decided to find a bench on the quieter side of the loufu. Scrolling through all her contacts before eventually landing on robins.

She tapped the screen to the message menu, taking a deep breath. 

Just rip off the bandaid.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Himeko: good day/afternoon/evening or wherever you might be, miss Robin. I’m contacting you because recently we had to give Sunday a new phone number for his safety. I won’t go into all the details, he mentioned wanting to talk to you himself about it. But I thought I should give it to you now so you don’t assume it’s some random person.

Delivered

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Himeko sat on the bench, her leg bouncing up and down as she waited for Robin's response. She didn’t know if the halovian was on tour right now so her time zone could just be anything, worse case scenario she was performing and it could be hours later before she got to himeko's text.

Luckily around ten minutes later she watched the delivery turned to read, immediately three dots forming as Robin was typing away.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Robin: WHAT ( ˶•ᴖ•) !? Can you at least tell if he’s ok??? Was he badly injured!?

Himeko: He’s recovering now and is safe, like I said he wished to tell you all the details personally and I wish to respect that. I hope you can understand.

Robin: I do but…ok, please send me it asap. 

Himeko: Of course. I have yet to give it to him so he may not respond right away but it’ll be less than thirty minutes. 

Robins: ok, thank you miss himeko. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The pain in himekos chest ten folded as she sent the number, take a minute before getting up to head over to the clinic.

She promised less the thirty minutes and she would keep that promise.

——————————————

As she arrived the others had yet to come, Dan Heng still being the only one sitting in Sundays room as the two of them were having a light conversation.

“Good morning you two.” She greeted them, giving them the best smile she could muster.

“Good morning Miss himeko.” They both replied, Sunday immediately noticing the phone in her hands knowing it didn’t belong to the red hed.

“Is that my new phone…?” He asked hesitantly, already knowing what was to come with receiving it.

“Yes, I wanted to let you know now I’ve given miss Robin your new number so she is expected you to text her - well actually while I was walking over here I think she’s already sent a few.” She chuckled lightly walking over to Sundays bed side to hand the phone.

As he grabbed it the screen had light up, Himeko being right that he’s already gotten a few messages from Robin. A lump was in his throat as he tore his eye away from the message, not quite ready yet to read them.

“Would you like us to step out while you talk?” Dan Heng asked gently, understanding if Sunday needed to be alone for this.

The halovian nodded hesitantly, the two express crew members not wasting any time and leaving the room. 

It took Sunday a beat or two, taking a few couple breaths before finally he opened the text messages reading what had been sent.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 Robin: BROTHER WHAT HAPPENED!? Miss Himeko just texted me that you had to get a new phone number, did something bad happen? Are you injured? 

Robin: I may be your little sister but don’t leave out any details! I don’t care how bad it is!

Robin: if there’s anything I can do as well please let me know :(( I was wondering why I haven’t gotten any text messages or letters from you recently…

~~~~~~~~~~~~

The fingers around the phone tighten a bit as he read, guilt swimming up his throat and shame boiling in him. 

Don’t tell her, just lie.

No, He couldn’t— he wouldn’t lie, because Robin was right she deserves to know as much as he didn’t want to burden her. 

His thumbs began typing, deleting, and retyping again trying to find the words on how to explain the situation without worrying her too much. No matter what he typed though it all sounded bad. 

Taking another deep breath he tried to remind himself that he just had to be honest. Just be honest.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Sunday: Hello robin, I’m sorry it’s taken me this long to explain what has been happening. My phone broke and the astral crew was kind enough to get me a new one, as to why I had to get a new phone number…it’s frankly hard to describe it all without somehow upsetting you. I apologize in advance. 

Sunday: before heading to the next destination the grew had to make a stop at the loufo, it was my first time here so Mr. Yang decided to give me a tour. While he was doing that I noticed a man was struggling with some boxes so we helped him…though that whole thing had been set up to ambush us. Mr. Yang got injured during the crossfire and I…I was kidnapped.

Robin: oh my aeons Sundays that’s…that’s horrible.

Sunday: I was then taking to a facility, these people wanted to take me back to Penacony and we both know what would happen if that accured…they had a boss and apparently it was a man from my past. Though I had no idea who he was because he had changed everything about himself and didn’t once tell me his name. Because of our last encounters he deemed that this was a good way to get his payback…he hurt me a lot, I know you mentioned to tell you all the details but honestly I can’t stomach that right now. I’m sorry.

Robin: no, no don’t be! I get it…I can only imagine that if you can’t even describe it it was pretty bad…also wtf why did he go after you to get revenge then to not even tell his name!! I hope he’s locked away and won’t ever get out.

Sunday: rest assured he is, the General on the loufu said he will ensure that. To continue he had hurt me a lot to the point I thought I wasn’t going to make it. But then the crew plus the General were able to rescue me in time before they could take me back to Penacony, now I am currently recovering from all my injuries. Rest assured the doctor mentioned I should make a full recovery. 

Robins: I…I don’t even know what to fully say to that, I’m glad your recovering and safe— you are safe right?

Sunday: yes, the express crew has made sure of my safety point A getting me a new phone number and VPN. 

Robin: VPN…? Oh no don’t tell me that they were able to track you from your phone! 

Sunday: that’s what we guessed was the case. I should've listen to your advice long ago when you mentioned about how people could track me with it…But I was in penacony and nothing happened to me there…I guess I got too cocky when I left and just didn’t think about it. I honestly thought none of the family would look for me when I was out of the picture so this was surprising.

Robins: well I’m glad you have one now, next time listen to your sis! But I agree with you, since you departed none of the family seemed that interested in going after you…they haven’t discussed anything but then again I only know so much. Whatever the case I’m just glad you're safe and alive…but I hate that I can’t be with you right now.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Sundays stomach has been turning as he texts Robin all the details, holding his breath sometimes from waiting for her response. But reading that last part made him feel sick because aeons he would wish for anything to have her here. 

But they couldn’t, due to the deal they weren’t allowed to see each other, not even voice calls or video calls were allowed. The only thing Sunday had to remember what she sounded like was listening to her songs. The only way they could communicate was like this and he hated it. 

Another part of him though was glad she couldn’t see his pathetic state, to see how weak he truly was. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Sunday: I know. 

Robin: It pains me knowing you had to go through all of this and once again I couldn’t be there for you when you needed it most. I’m so sorry brother. 

Sunday: Robin that…that was different from this, you didn’t know what father was doing to me, and back then I didn’t see how wrong it was despite you trying to tell me…Yet I was so sure it was fine. You have nothing to apologize for, I promise I’m ok, the others have really been a big help to me more than I can express, if anyone has to apologize it should be me.

Robin: 1. Don’t call that man father, he was nothing of the sort especially how he treated you 2. You also don’t have anything to apologize for, brother! You couldn’t have known that would happen, you were kidnapped and injured so there’s nothing to be sorry for.

Sunday: …. i was worried telling you this might burden you, I still am. 

Robin: Sunday you’re my brother, you could never burden me with anything. I’m glad you told me, and you bet I’m going to be sending a lot of puddings your way as a get well soon gift! I was frankly a little worried when I hadn't heard from you in days but I assumed it was because you were busy with the express, then when I got that text from Miss Himeko I won’t lie I was scared, but knowing you're safe and recovering reassures me and I trust the crew. 

Sunday: thank you for understanding, I miss you sister, I wish you were here.

Robin: I know :( I wish I was too, please don’t hesitate to text me if you need anything or if you want to simply talk ok? I’m making a new album and like always you’ll be the first to hear it! 

Sunday: if you’re sure…and ok I will keep in mind. Thank you. 

Robin: of course!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Beyond this point tears were falling from his eyes as quiet sobs left his lips, hands trembling as he tried his best to type away on the keypad making sure not to make any typos. Robin would'ev notice something was wrong and he couldn't handle that right now. 

The two texted a bit more before eventually Robin did have to leave for a meeting but reminded him her messages were always available. He said he knew as he turned off the screen, laying back against the pillows as he fully sobbed.

The pain of missing his sister hurting much more compared to any of the injuries he had. Knowing that he couldn’t see her hurt, now he understood what she must’ve been dealing with on this side when she had gotten shot yet he didn’t come to see her…

But for that it was his own choice, it was his decision not to see her because Gopherwood said Penacony needed him and he couldn’t…

No, that had also been a lie, he knew it was a lie now and regret ebbed it’s way into all the mixing emotions that was Sunday right now. Robin could have died yet he believed that man’s lies and didn’t go. 

Don’t you dare blame this on father, it was you who made the final decision not to see her, not him. 

Another broken sob slipped from his lips, his heart rate picking up as his whole body trembled, breathing became more frantic.

You deserve this pain, you deserve so much worse, she was your sister and NOTHING was holding you back yet you didn’t go. Now look at you, a pathetic man from what you once were. 

Sunday didn’t even realize the door had opened to his room until he heard rushing feet come near him. Despite his eyes being filled with tears he could vaguely make the outlines of Himeko and Dan Heng. 

“Sunday - Sunday can you hear us?” Dan Heng urgently said quickly analyzing that Sunday was having a panic attack, the halovian gave a jerky nod.

“I’m going to help you sit up ok?” Himeko said gently, when Sunday nodded again she placed her hands on his shoulders guiding him back up into a sitting position, Dan Heng already having his hand out for the halovian.

It took him a minute or two to realize before he reach out his trembling hand and rested on top of other before Dan Heng guided it to his chest. Sunday could feel the vidyadhara heartbeat grounding him a little. This was the similar method Dan Heng had done when he had a small panic attack at his first sleepover. 

“Try and breath with me ok?” He instructed and once more Sunday gave a jerky nod before Dan Heng took it a deep breath and held it for four seconds.

Sunday tried to follow but was struggling at first. Eventually he manager and then followed when Dan Heng exhaled for four seconds repeating the cycle. Yet again Sunday struggled with doing it, his breath hitching every now and then, but soon enough he was able to follow along.

“There you go, good job Sunday.” Himeko encouraged from the side her hands squeezing his shoulders just a little more. Honestly it help Sunday's nerves an immense amount.

After what felt like hours they were able to get Sundays breathing back to normal, his shaking stopping, however his tears kept following. 

Himeko sat next to him, rubbing soothing circles against his back noticing how he leaned into the touch a little.

“Are you alright if I let go?” Dan Heng asked, conflicted.

“Y-yes, thank you for doing t-that I’m..I’m so sorry I just—“ he hiccupped trying to rid some of his tears, embarrassed crawling its way up, “I was overthinking and I just started to have one again, Aeons I feel so pathetic. I really am trying, but when it comes to my s-sister I just…” he sniffled the tears seemingly never stopping.

He hated it, he hated how so many times this week alone he’s cried, he used to never cry - only on the rare occasions. But now it felt like it was the only thing he could do and he hated himself so much for it. Sunday knows welt has told him many times it was ok to show his emotions, that it was ok to cry, yet every time he still felt the shame and a burden even after all the comfort. 

“We understand, you don’t have to apologize, being separated from your sibling especially in these types of situations is never easy. I know if she could she would do anything to be here.” Himeko whispered to him, wrapping her arm around his shoulders in a side hug. 

Sunday hated that he leaned into the touch, he didn’t deserve it but aeons he just wanted to be hugged right now considering the only person he couldn’t get one from was light years away. It was selfish, he knew it was, but for the time being he simply let it.

“I miss her…” he confessed softly, wrapping his arms around himeko, more soft sobs left him, feeling as himeko returned the embrace in full this time her grip tightening around him.

“I know, and I’m so sorry she can’t be here right now, would putting on one of her songs help maybe?” She asked, glancing over to Dan Heng who had already fetched his phone out ready to play just in case.

When Sunday nodded Dan Heng played the first song that was in her playlist “ if I could stop one heart from breaking” began to softly play throughout the room. The tension in Sundays shoulders leaving a bit as the song continued to play on.

As more songs played the more Sunday was able to relax, the melodies of robins' songs bringing him more comfort than he anticipated. Hesitantly he broke the hug from himeko, whipping away the rest of his tears letting out a shaky breath.

“How are you feeling now?” Himeko asked, one of her hands still settled on his shoulder, some concern littered on her face. 

 nodding Sunday ducked his head in embarrassment of himself, “Yes, t-thank you again. I’m sorry you all have to see like this so many times, I’ll try and control my emotions a little more.” He sighed, raking a hand through his hair. 

Dan Heng and Himeko shared a look with one another before they looked back, “You don’t have to hide your emotions from us. We understand everything that you’ve been going through this past week has been a lot to handle all at once.” Dan Heng spoke, his facial expression softening a little bit, “You don’t have to hide—“

“I know, I know.” He let out a shaky sigh running a hand through his hair trying to calm the rest of his nerves, “but this isn’t easy for me, none of this is. Especially after being taught for years I had to be a perfect image, that I had to hide all my emotions to not be seen as weak . Yet here I am sobbing at every inconvenience.” He confessed, biting his lower lip realizing what he had just said out loud.

Now look what you did, now they're going to know how pathetic and sad you truly are. They're gonna leave you here, stranded, or maybe they’ll turn you into the general because of how useless you are and don’t want you. 

“I understand - well maybe not fully but to an extent.” Dan Heng said, his voice still carrying that softness to it, “When I was first on the express I felt on edge all the time. Even though no one knew of my past yet I second guessed their actions, thought sometimes they wanted to hurt me, and more. It took me a long while to adjust, and it wasn’t until Mr. Yang helped me out of my own panic attack, I finally came to realize that these were people I could trust.” He explained, jade eyes briefly going over to himeko who smiled back at him.

Sunday looked a little…surprised at that. He knew tidbits about Dan Heng by now, but that was not one of them. Hearing how there was some relation was…comforting.

“What I’m trying to say is that we understand things won’t change overnight. Like you said you were taught a lot for years,” he continued, this is probably the longest Sunday has heard Dan Heng talk, “You slowly overcoming some of them but we understand that these things take time. We're sorry if we pushed you at all or rushed you.” 

Quickly the halovian shook his head, “Not at all, if anything it’s the opposite. Despite everything you're all patient with me, letting me get adjusted at my own pace, me warming up to you all when it comes to interactions, and such…” Sunday spoke quietly, his head dipping down, “I still have a lot to learn with this new path. But thank you all again for waiting so long…” though I don’t deserve it sometimes. 

A gentle squeeze came from his shoulders once more, “you don’t have to thank us, we are more than willing to wait - patience is key to those that have to wait, do what makes you feel comfortable Sunday.” She said smoothly, her words causing an ache in Sunday's chest because it felt a little too familiar, “but if you ever need reassurance for anything whenever you may doubt yourself we are happy to remind you.”

It was spoken so fondly, like he had been a part of the express for years, traveling with these people for more than he’s actually been on it. It was comforting, despite how distant he may have been with some of them they were still willing to help and care for him when he needed it. It made him want to cry all over again but he couldn’t, he just got over getting it he rather not humiliate himself again.

Even if he knows the others wouldn’t judge him, Sunday still can't wash down the shame he had every time he did it. Even now despite the comfort he was feeling and some relief the dread was still there deep down. 

You're nothing but being greedy, constantly wanting and wanting yet doing nothing in return for them. You're committing a sin, you should be begging for mercy not feeling hopeful. 

Another shaky breath left Sunday as he tried to push those thoughts away, he could think about them later, and repent later just…not right now.

“Is there anything else you wanted to talk about?” Himeko asked gently, noticing how Sunday's eyes wandered back down to his phone screen. 

“…I just wish she was here.” It was spoken so quietly, barely above a whisper and could be easily missed if the two weren’t so close to him.

, Himeko pulling him into another hug, “I know.” Was all she could muster to say again, the halovian burying his face in the crook of her neck. It was childish action, but right now all he wanted was to hide away from the world a bit.

Dan Heng placed a hand on Sunday's knee, offering silent support. 

Time seemed to pass more quickly than Sunday had realized because soon enough the rest of the crew joined them. By now Sunday had calmed down from his previous stature, though as the others entered he did notice March had been holding a box that was very well decorated. 

“What’s that?” He couldn’t help but ask and the grin she had turned wider.

“Wellll~ that little tidbit we mentioned to the General yesterday about you liking sweets seemed to have caught on with him!” She beamed, placing the decorated box into Sunday's lap.

The silver hair blinked down at the box…surely the General didn’t go out of his way too—

“C’mon open it!! I wanna see what he got ya!” Caleus cheered looking giddy as ever.

A small flushed appeared on Sunday cheeks as he slowly opened the box, and sure enough inside of it was an array of different desserts Sunday has never seen before. The aroma of the different mixtures of items getting to his senses makes his stomach growl.

A small chuckle lightened the room as Sunday's face went to a darker shade of red, not realizing he had eaten anything yet today. 

Taped at the top of the box was a letter, Sunday carefully peeled it off to read its contents.

“Dear Mr. Sunday,

I know you mentioned how there was no need for me to do anything, but consider this box as a ‘get well soon’ gift. After hearing how you were a fan of sweets I asked some people around what would best suit visitors trying out new desserts here. I do hope you enjoy them and again you make a quick recovery. 

                         Signed, General Jing yuan” 

He felt like fainting from how heated his face was reading the card, Caelus even started to fan him noticing the red, “Hey you just got rid of your fever don’t go back to it!” 

“A-apologies I just…wasn’t e-expecting this.” Sunday cleared his throat, picking up one of the many desserts, this one was a tiny ball with some sort of seed all around it, “what’s this one called?”

“It’s a sesame seed ball,” Dan Heng informed, “It’s a fried pastry made of rice flour and coated with sesame seeds. I believe sometimes they are filled with a sweet paste.” 

Slowly Sunday took a bite out of the pastry, instantly the sweetness of it hitting his taste buds making his eyes light up. Not wasting another moment he ate the rest of it as mannerly as he could with the others in the room, but his left wing couldn’t stop fluttering.

“Like it?” Welt asked, a grin on his face seeing what felt like forever some light in Sundays eyes again.

The halovian nodded, gasping a little that he completely forgot to ask the others, something Gopher wood would scold him for, “I’m sorry did any of you want some? I don’t mind sharing, I didn’t mean to hog it all…” he asked hesitantly now to reach for another.

Everyone shook their heads, “nah this is a gift to you sunny! You should be able to enjoy it to the fullest!” Caelus exclaimed Dan Heng nodded alongside him.

“Yeah! Plus I’m not really hungry so have as much as you want!” March chimed.

“I’m not really a big fan of sweets myself so I’ll be alright to pass.” Welt hummed, himeko quoting “same here.” 

Sunday looked at all of them, double checking to see if they were sure, once again they reassured him like Himeko mentioned they said they would. It felt…off, but nice in a way, Sunday didn’t really get a lot of gifts unless it was from something to gain out of him. So the fact the General just…did this form him as a ‘get well soon’ gift and not expecting anything in return, and the others also telling him to indulge with no venom in their words felt…

Honestly he really didn’t know how to describe it other than it was a positive feeling. 

For the rest of the afternoon the crew talked while Sunday kept trying out the different desserts, each one he tried his face seemed to get brighter and brighter. Riding away the gloomy thoughts he had in his head and everything else.

He would also be able to tell Robin something new he tried. 

Chapter Text

Over a week had passed since Sunday woke up from his mini coma, and finally at last with most of his injuries healed he was discharged from the clinic. His ankle and right wing were still in a cast, having to use crutches to assist with getting around, but other than that and a few new scars permanently drawn on his body he was fine.

The only downside was they couldn’t make a jump quite yet due to worry of Sunday's ankle swelling if they were to do that. So they would at least have to wait a couple more days before doing so, it wouldn't be long either before he had to task the casts off anyway so the crew decided a few more days wouldn't hurt. Sunday still felt bad but the crew didn’t mind the least, stating that they could give him a proper tour now if he wanted.

Which he did, Sunday had already gotten the hang of using the crutches so he didn’t mind - although there were a lot of times he had to sit down and rest. 

This time around the whole crew decided to tag along, not wanting a repeat of last time - plus it was just nice to walk around the loufo. It was a pretty day out today so why not. 

“And over there is where I kicked a lot of borisin’s asses!” Caelus pointed out with a cheeky grin, earning a light chuckle from Sunday.

“I think you mean moze .” Dan Heng smirked, crossing his arms recounting the memory, as a bright red spread the Caelus cheeks.

“How could you be able to tell! The guy turns invisible! Maybe you misremembered.” The grey haired huff, nudged Dan Heng with his elbow. 

The walk continued until they reached a beautiful garden, Sunday's eyes widened at the sight as he took a seat by a nearby stone bench. However what he found odd and stood out was a few wooden structures with multiple arms on it? 

“What are those for?” He looked to the others to seek an answer and March stood up proudly.

“This, my feathered friend is where I did my sword training!” March said, approaching one of the wooden objects, “Master Yanqing and Master Yunli showed me these wooden things are to help you fight fist to fist to get a better accuracy, or something like that! Here watch!” She announced, getting into a battle stance before throwing a punch at one of the wooden arms, “hiiiyahh!!!” 

The armed had spined a couple of times at the impact of march’s powerful punch, a few claps coming from everyone as she bowed.

“Thank you, thank you!” She grinned looking back over to Sunday, “you shoulda seen the outfit I was wearing too it was soo—“

“I thought I heard voices in here!” A young voice called out, everyone turning their heads to where it was coming from and there stood Yanqing with a big grin on his face.

“Yo Yanqing! what are you doing out here?” Caelus greeted as the boy approached them, reaching out his hand, at first yanqing thought it was to shake hands, but nope because immediately Caelus's had went to go ruffle the blonde's hair.

That earned a chuckle as he lightly hit the hand away, “hey don’t mess up my hair!” Yanqing huffed, though there was no real anger in his words, “I was patrolling around the area then heard some voices in here, so thought I would check it out!” 

Then his eyes landed over to the others, specifically on Sunday - said eyes widening seeing the halovian was finally out of the clinic, “Mr. Sunday! Glad to see you out and about too! How are you feeling?” 

Sunday wing twitch a bit not expecting the blonde to interact with him so quickly, “It’s good to see you as well Mr. Yanqing, I am fairing alright. Lady Lingsha advised me to wait a couple more days before getting back on the express, so everyone decided to give me a full tour of the Xianzhou today.” He explained, stretching out his legs a little.

It was nice to be walking around again after being stuck in bed rest for almost two weeks, he was glad his first day out too was doing this with everyone.  All the sightseeing, facts, stories from the others, plus some history brought more comfort to him than he realized, there was a sense of normalcy with this and personally he enjoyed it after the chaotic and messy few weeks.

“That’s awesome! Sorry I didn’t visit you in the hospital by the way; me and the General got caught up with a few things and couldn’t find the time.” He mumbled scratching the back of his hair, Sunday merely waved his hand at the notion looking a little surprised at first.

Then the boy turned his head towards March, who immediately backed away from the wooden dummy, sweating bullets, “oh? And what’s this? Is Miss March doing training without me having to remind her?” He smirked, teasing the pink hair girl as she laughed nervously trying to sputter out different excuses.

“H-hey I do it on my own time! I’m just, y'know, busy with a lot of things!” She blurted pointing her hands towards Sunday, “like right now! We're giving Sunday a tour so of course I wanted to show off where I first trained and of course my awesome moves! That’s the most important part of the tour.” She looked at the halovian with her puppy dog eyes silently begging for assistance.

Sunday let out a long sigh shaking his head, how was he dragged into the middle of this again? “Yes, Miss March is…correct. As she quoted, she wanted to show me her ‘awesome moves’.” He flatly said, Caleus losing it and laughing non-stop behind him. 

It also earned a laugh from Yanqing as well, “well as much as I would like to see these ‘awesome moves’ I gotta get back to it, and remember March at least once a week!” He lastly said departing from the group to get back to his tasks.

March let out a sigh of relief, “thank aeons, I am not in the motivation status to do four hours of training, again!” She then glared over to Caelus who was still trying to die down his laughter, “watch it mister! I’ll drag you along with me like last time!” The threat immediately got the grey hair to stop almost bursting out his lung. 

It didn’t take long for the group to move from that spot heading to the next, they must’ve walked around for hours considering how when they were walking back to the main area again the sun had set. Himeko was taking the lead this time around as she led the group to a restaurant that was nearby called Huan house. 

Holding the door open, everyone walked inside, immediately the smell of different sorts of food and flavors hitting their noses, “this is one of my favorite restaurants to come to whenever We're on the loufu, so I thought it would be nice for all of us to have dinner together here.” She hummed walking up to the counter, giving her name for the reservation and soon the waiter was leading them to their table.

Welt had pulled a chair out for Sunday as Caleus helped him sit down, leaving the halovian a bit flustered but thanked them for the help anyways. 

“Get anything you want guys, this dinner will be on me.” She offered, looking at all of them, Caleus immediately excited as he started mumbling all the different things he wanted to get. 

“Thanks Himeko!” March exclaimed looking through the menu of a variety of dishes.

“Are you sure Miss himeko? You've already done so much for me I wouldn’t mind—“ Sunday tried to convince but Himeko was quick to turn down his offer.

“Please, I insist, think of it as a victory meal from getting discharged from the clinic and not having to eat hospital food anymore.” She reassured, honeyed eyes looking down at the menu.

The silver hair didn’t know what to say back to that, he guessed it was fine…after all she was right, the food at the clinic was a bit bland, though he would never say it out loud, he was always grateful for whatever food he could get no matter what it was. But having something that had more flavor to it did sound very appetizing right now. 

While he was looking through the menu he was a bit conflicted on what to get, there were so many options of dishes he’s never heard or tried before it was a bit overwhelming. 

After a minute of still not deciding on what to get he picked his head up to look at everyone, “um…do any of you have any recommendations? I’m having a hard time deciding on what to get.” He asked, tapping his fingers against the wooden table with a slightly off beat rhythm.

“Hmm, I’m guessing chicken stuff is off the table? Considering that’s like cannibalism right?” Caelus asked, he didn’t know a lot about halovian stuff but it made the most sense to him.

“Uh- not really? Though it’s not my first choice of meat I can still have it.” 

“Oh damn really? I thought it was like, forbidden or something.” 

A small chuckle left Sunday as he shook his head, “no it isn’t, but again I try to mostly avoid it because of that factor, back at penacony whenever I ate anything with chicken in it I would get weird looks.” He smiled remembering a time where he was at a lunch meeting with some sponsors and the food of choice was a salad that had chicken in it, when some of the members saw him eating it, their jaws dropped but didn’t say anything of the matter.

“Are you in the mood for something specific?” Welt had asked, “maybe that can help narrow down on what you would like?” 

Having to think about that for a moment, his fingers continuing to tap away on the wood, “I guess something that’s more vegetables wise? I’m not really in the mood to have a lot of meat, and nothing too spicy. I wish to not have a repeat like last time-“ he shivered. Remembering when welt had taken him to a little food stall when they first arrived and it was nothing but spicy foods and it took him a long while to recover. 

Everyone nodded as they scaled through the menu looking at different items 

“Have you ever had tofu before Sunday?” Dan Heng asked, turning to look at sunday beside him, seeing the halovian shake his head he continued, “it’s a food made of soy milk, usually cut up in squares but it’s in a lot of dishes. It’s a vegetarian option but most people sometimes describe that it can taste like meat depending on this dish. This place has a few options regarding it.” 

Since they were close Dan Heng was able to point out the different options on the menu, Sunday analyzing each one and seeing a few that perked his interest. 

“I’ve had the stir fried tofu here before and it was really good, I highly recommend that one.” Himeko added, Sunday nodding along, that one being the most he was intrigued by.

It fit the bill of everything he was craving right now, plus he was curious in trying how a soy milk base food could possibly taste like meat. 

“Alright then I’ll get that, thank you.” 

“Great! And if ya ever wanna try something else you can snag something off of one of my dishes!” Caleus offered a bright smile on his face.

“ One of? What in the aeons are you planning to get!” March huff next to the grey hair who snickered. 

“Hey miss himeko said get anything we wanna! That’s a rare opportunity ya know, plus this place has so many good options it's hard just to choose one thing!” 

“It’s alright March, after all I did offer so don’t worry. But Caelus try not to overdo yourself, we don’t want you getting indigestion right before dessert.” Himeko warned lightly, but Caelus merely waved her off stating that he would be fine. 

When everyone decided on what they were going to get, Himeko called over another waiter who’d taken their order. Sweat dripping down their face as they got to Caelus trying their best to write everything down the grey hair was telling them.

“Oh Sunday, did you want to try this jasmine tea? It comes in its own tea pot and cups but usually me and Dan Heng can’t finish it all in one sitting.” Welt asked glancing over to the halovian, since being on the express welt got to learn that Sunday too was a fan of different assortment of teas and was willing to try out new blends. Whenever the two of them talked late at night welt would always try to fix a new blend for him to try, jasmine was one he hasn’t gotten around to yet. 

“I wouldn’t mind giving it a try,” Sunday then turned his head back over to black hair, “if that’s alright with you Dan Heng?” 

Dan Heng shrugged, “I don’t mind, like Mr. Yang said we don’t usually finish it all in one sitting, so the more the merrier.” He said with a gentle smile, making Sunday return the same gesture.

Once that was settled, Welt had also put that for his order. Whenever everyone gave what they wanted the waiter had walked off back into the kitchen to share.

Casual conversation began up again in the group, Sunday keeping to himself and listening to the different chatter. It was nice having dinner together like this, after the couple weeks that transpired getting back to this somewhat normalcy was good. He never really attended dinners with the express when he first joined unless March or Caelus practically dragged him out of his room, or when sometimes Welt would knock on his door and ask for him to join, and sunday didn't wish to be rude so he would.

A part of him regretted that now he didn’t attend more meals with the crew, Sunday didn’t even have to join conversations he could just simply sit there and enjoy the company around him. There were multiple reasons why he didn’t but maybe after tonight he’ll have the confidence to join more. 

Soon enough some of the appetizers that were ordered were brought to the table, as well as the tea set welt got. The older man poured the floral fragment tea in three cups, handing Sunday and Dan Heng their own share. 

“Let me know what you think of it.” Welt said to Sunday, taking a small sip out of his own cup. 

Nodding and picking up the cup, already the smell alone brought comfort to him. While the fragrance was strong it wasn’t overwhelming, the jasmine scent was welcoming the closer to drink. Taking a sip Sunday was surprised by how sweet the tea tasted, he had guessed it would've tasted like the other floral teas he had, with those Sunday usually added a couple sugars cubes to them but for this one there was no need to. The tea also felt very refreshing to drink, after all the walking they had done today this is exactly what he needed. 

“Well?” Welt asked, his lips tugging upwards seeing how Sunday's eyes practically lit up after taking his first sip. 

“It’s surprisingly sweet on its own, it’s also very refreshing which considering after all the walking we did today, this is a perfect drink to have.” Sunday replied with a soft smile taking another sip.

While the three discuss more about the tea the others had piled their appetizer on small dishes the waiter had given them. 

“Here you guys go, take as much as you wish.” Himeko passed Dan Heng three plates, to which he gave welt and Sunday their own plates.

While the others were getting different arrangements of the dishes presented Sunday was the only one to not put anything on his plate. Should he be taking some too? Was he allowed to take anything? He didn’t order any of this so was it okay? 

You've already taken so much from them, don’t be greedy. 

Maybe he would have to rethink about joining meals—

“Here, sunny try this! It’s a vegetable dumpling that might be to your liking!” Caelus grinned, handing a plate that was full of freshly made dumplings.

“O-oh thank you,” Sunday clumsily grabbed the dish, placing one on his plate. 

The others joined in on the train of giving Sunday different assortment of food that he should try, his once empty plate now completely full with different things. Once again Sunday face was a deep red not knowing what to do or say to any of this.

Guess it would be rude to not try it…

Bit by bit Sunday tried to eat everything on his plate, not noticing the others were smiling over at him happy to see him eating a good meal.

After a while their enteers had arrived, everyone immediately beginning to eat their meals, the conversations dying down as they were all enjoying the food. 

Eating the tofu stir fried, Dan Heng was right about how the tofu tastes like pork. He wondered how that could possibly happen but would save that conversation for another time, “your right Miss Himeko, this dish is delicious. Thank you for recommending it to me.” 

“Of course! I’m glad you're enjoying it.” Himeko beamed.

As they continued to eat Sunday could only manage to get halfway through his plate before pushing it away, already feeling full. It was most likely due to all the appetizers he had earlier, but also he really didn’t eat a lot to begin with. He felt a little embarrassed considering everyone was still eating and yet he could barely even manage to eat half of it.

Welt seemingly having detected his doubts had placed a hand on his shoulder, “if you're full that’s alright, we can always ask to take it to go. We were gonna do that for some of the dishes we hadn’t finished yet.” He reassured which seemed to have calmed some of Sunday's nerves as the halovian quietly nodded. 

One by one everyone had finished up eating their meals, Himeko mentioned If any of them wanted desserts but they all declined stating they were too full to take another bite of anything else. Then the bill was paid and any leftovers they had were all placed in their own boxes. 

Departing from the restaurant everyone made their way over towards where the hotel they had been staying at since getting here. Welt slowing down his pace to walk side by side with Sunday, “since We’er heading back to the hotel is there anyone you wish to bunk with? We’er all sharing a room of two, himeko and March are together, and Dan Heng is bunking with me, Caelus is the only one who got a room to himself because of well…” he trailed off a bit before quickly clearing his throat, getting back on task, “but room assignments can be rearrange if needed.” 

Gold eyes looked at the grey hair in front of him, Caelus and March were yet again bickering over something, “I don’t mind sharing a room with Caelus if he’s ok with it. Honestly you all make me comfortable so I’m alright with whatever everyone else is comfortable with.” 

Hearing that had made welt pause for a moment, not expecting to hear that from Sunday. He couldn’t help the smile that broke away on his face as he ruffled silver locks lightly, the halovians face brightening, “I’m glad you feel that way. C’mon it’s been a long day and you need to get some rest after walking so much today.” 

When they arrived, Welt had told Caelus that Sunday would be staying with him, the man immediately ecstatic wrapping an arm around Sunday, “let’s go room buddies!!” He exclaimed, earning a small chuckle from the man under his arm.

The day's events finally came to a close as everyone headed to their own rooms, bidding each other goodnight. Caelus and Sunday entered their own room, Sunday quickly resting himself on the bed letting out a sigh of relief. 

“Did you wanna use the shower first or do you wanna rest for a bit?” Caleus pointed his thumb over to the bathroom.

“I may need to rest for a bit, that last stretch took me out a bit after eating all that food. So you can go ahead and use it first.” Sunday replies, laying himself flat on his back, Caelus taking the cue and heading towards the bathroom, closing the door and turning the shower on. 

As he laid on the bed Sunday eyes felt extremely heavy, the wave of exhaustion hitting him all at once and he could barely keep his eyes open anymore. It would be fine if he shut his eyes for a minute right? He could last that long. 

Apparently not because when Caelus had stepped out of the bathroom sunday was out like a light. He walked over poking the halovians cheek, “Sunny? Ya with me?” He tried to wake the man up (not really) but the guy just wasn't budging. Oh well it was a long day after all, sunday needed the rest. 

With some moving around Caelus was able to get Sunday underneath the covers, making sure his ankle was levitated, and that he was secured enough to not twist and turn too much to jostle his right wing. Double checking to making sure sunday was all 

good was when he finally flopped into his own bed. 

“Goodnight sunday…” Caelus yawned before finally he shut his eyes. 

Chapter Text

It was late in the evening when Jing yuan was called to the prison that the captures who took sunday were in. The reason was their leader - Bradon Migel - was seemingly in a good mood this evening…the man at some point couldn’t stop laughing no matter what the guards did.  Finding this very unusual, especially considering how aggressive he had been the past few “chats” they had, this seemed like something he had to discover himself. 

Walking down the hallway of the cold cells slowly he started to hear it, the laughter coming from the end of the hallway going louder and louder with each step. When he was at the cell the guards parted ways for him so Jing yuan could step into it, and there hunching against the wall continuous laughter like he wasn't even there was Brandon Migeul. 

“You seem to be in a good mood, what's the occasion?” the General smirk, trying to keep his voice even as the man finally picked his head up, a bright grin on his face.

“Why if it isn't General Jing yuan, I apologize, did my laughter keep you awake?” Migel mocked, when the general didn’t make a comment to that he decided to continue, “But if you must know I just got some great news!” 

That was…unexpected. No one here except for him has talked to Migel in the past few days, for him to get any news either someone else with his permission would have spoken to him first but nothing of that sort happened…

“Mind sharing?” The general asked, his smile fading a bit as Migel only continued to grin into something more sinister. 

“Is it true that bird boy is out of the hospital now?” Migel snickered seeing how the general eyes widened a bit, confirming the intel he got, “good, good. Then the next step is already in motion.” 

This got The General to freeze for a moment, but he quickly regain himself taking another step further, “what the next step?” His voice was cold when asked— no demand.

Another round of laughter echoed around the cell, taking Migel a couple seconds to recover, “Mr. General, are you positive you caught every person I hired? Are you sure one didn’t perhaps…slip away and didn’t hide amongst one of you during all the chaos?” He said in a sing-song tone, tilting his head to the side a little, “because one thing you didn’t expect is that one of the people I hired could….shape shift. I don’t think you realize but I had hired 15 men, and you only caught what?” 

Silence took over the cell, gathering all this information because they hadn't caught 15 people... they had caught 14, which could only mean…

Damnit!

Jing yuan didn’t waste anymore time, rushing out of the cell quickly fetching out his phone. Quickly tapping Himekos contact to call her, the phone rang, rang, and rang, but she didn’t pick up.

It was late he knew that, but he kept calling and calling as he rushed out into the evening air of the loufo, only then did himeko pick up the phone.

“Hello…?” A soft but groggy voice answered on the other side.

“Miss Himeko, it’s Jing yuan. I'm sorry to be calling so late but is Mr. Sunday with you all?” He said urgently still racing down the streets 

“Yes he is, why what’s going on?” The mention of that seemed to have immediately woken her up.

“I got word that Migel was acting strange tonight. I just went to go talk to him and apparently he got ‘good news’. He knew Mr. Sunday was out of the clinic, and even more importantly he asked me if I caught everyone he had hired.” Jing yuan informed, keeping his eyes on the lookout for maybe anything that looked suspicious but knowing now this perpetrator was a shapeshifter , it was nearly impossible, “He said he had hired 15 people, we only caught 14. The last person can shape shift.”

A gasp came through the other line as well of shuffling cloths, himeko fumbling with the sheets, “I’ll inform everyone immediately, do you think there trying to…”

“I don’t know, but Mr. Migel mentioned something about the ‘next step’. I don't know what that means nor do I plan to, I’m on my way now. So just keep an eye out until I’m there.” Jing yuan lastly said, himeko agreeing before they both hanged up.

———-

As himeko rushed down the hotel's hallway, March closed behind, heart pounding in her chest as she rapidly knocked on the door to Caelus and Sunday's room.

“Caelus? Sunday ? It’s Himeko, we have an emergency.” She said urgently, leaning her ear against the door.

Nothing, no movement, no words spoken, nothing. 

She knocked again, panic kicking in, “I know it’s late but I need to make sure you two are alright.” Yet there was no response.

March looked at her anxiously, “m-maybe they're just in a real deep sleep? You know Caelus and how he can sometimes sleep through anything…maybe Sundays the same?” She tried to reason even though she couldn’t be convinced, they knew from previous experiences Sunday is a very light sleeper, it didn’t matter to the situation even just a creak in the floor could wake him up. 

Himeko quickly rummaged through her pajama pockets, they all had an extra key to each other's rooms just in case. Glad she remembered to bring them along before rushing out after the call with Jing yuan. 

“I’m coming in, I’m sorry in advance.” She warned before inserting the key and opening the door, the two women quickly entered the room, a sinking feeling settled in both of them when neither Caelus nor Sunday were seen. 

“W-where could they have gone!? Did…did that person?” March panic, gripping her hair.

Honey eyes looked all over the room, neither of the beds showed any signs of struggles, and nothing else in the room seemed out of place either. Sunday's crutches were gone so maybe they left on their own accord? 

“They mightev went out on their own accord, either way we need to find them, they both looked like they took their phones so I’ll try contacting them.” Himeko quickly got to work getting out her phone before looking at March, “go get Welt and Dan Heng and inform them on what’s going on.”

“Right!” March dashed out of the room and down the hall.

When Himeko was by herself again she clicked on Caelus' contact, bringing the phone up to her ear, “please be ok.” She quietly prayed. 

—————————————-

~Some time before that~

It was around 1 am when Sunday started to twist and turn in his sleep, his face scrunching up in discomfort, a few tears streaming down his cheeks, as a few mumbling words left his lips.

The noise was enough to stir Caelus awake albeit slowly, “hmm…? Sunday?” He grumbled propping himself up on the bed, turning his head towards his bunk buddy.

Immediately seeing how distress the halovian was and mumbling things Caelus couldn’t understand got the grey hair to launch out of bed to the other. Gently shaking Sunday shoulder, “Hey, hey Sunday wake up, you're ok it's just a dream.” 

not matter what Caelus did it seemly was just making it worse. A broken sob left Sunday as his whole body trembled, “no, no please I’m sorry, please!” Sunday pleaded in his sleep only causing more worry.

Caelus didn’t know what to do, shaking him only made things worse but he couldn’t also just leave Sunday like that! so as much as he didn't want to there wasn't much else to be done.

“Sorry sunny…I don’t wanna scare you but you gotta wake up!”  He apologized, grabbing both of Sunday shoulders, jostling him, “wake up!”

That seemed to do the trick because in the next second Sunday eyes snapped open, a gasp leaving him, as he shot up from his bed - nearly missing colliding with Caelus - halo flickering as a small pain formed in his back. 

Frantic eyes looked all over the room looking for something that wasn’t even there . Yet the walls felt to tight, every second they felt like the were getting closer, closer, and closer caging him—

“Sunday?” 

Inquor eyes landed on a concern looking grey hair, his hands were held up signaling ‘I mean no harm.’ 

It was Caelus, he knew it was Caelus and felt incredibly guilty that he had to see him in such a pathetic state but he couldn't be here right now.

“Outside.” Sunday blurted out, grabbing a fist full of his shirt.

Wearing the same clothes to bed, shameful, dirty, disgusting you need to repent.

“H-huh? are you sure it’s pretty late and—“ the look Sunday gave Caelus, the silent pleading in his eyes didn’t leave room for argument, “ok, let’s get some fresh air.”

It took a bit to help Sunday get up. His body was still shaking and his legs could barely stand him up right, not to mention his cast ankle wasn’t helping much. But they managed, walking out of the room Caleus kept close to ensure he wouldn’t fall.

Eventually the two found their way in the quiet night of the loufo, cool air greeting them as they walked out. Sunday finally felt like he could breathe again, there were no walls, there were no ravens, there were no claws, it was just the night sky. 

There was an awkward silence, the other unsure of what to say as the breeze passed by them, until Caelus cleared his throat inclining his head near a vending machine, “would tea help? The vending machines here work 24/7 so I can go get you one?” He offered, Sunday only could give a small nod in return, not having the strength yet to fully perform sentences.

The two made their way over to the nearby vending machine, while Caelus was getting some credits to buy one Sunday leaned himself on a bridge railing close by, the two weren’t incredibly far but Sunday just…needed some space. 

Another nightmare.  

They seemed to have gotten worse since getting out of the facility, well— that’s not true. He’s always struggled with nightmares from different memories or things that happened to him, but they seem to be happening every other night now. It was embarrassing because for so many nights the express had to comfort him so many times, he felt like a burden even when they reassured, he still felt weak for showing his vulnerable side. The only time he didn’t get nightmares was when…

They are not your family, don’t even think that they are, they can get rid of you at any point. Look at everything you’ve cost them, they should get rid of you. Your nothing but a useless waste to them, they should throw you out, or maybe you should do it—

Sunday quickly shook his head, wincing a little from his casted wing. It was fine; he was fine , he just needed to breathe. 

Take a deep breath in, hold it for four seconds, let it out for four seconds, then repeat. 

He didn’t know how long he had been doing this method, but it was at least working . He felt more relaxed, his head a little less clogged with spiraling thoughts, and the shakiness in his hands seemed to have stopped too. 

Just then the sounds of rushing footsteps were getting closer and closer, Sunday turned around and saw a foxian dashing towards him, a dagger in hand.

“Mr. Sunday look out!” Someone screamed and all time seemed to have slowed at that moment.

The perpetrator was getting closer, the knife glinting in the moonlight. But the person wasn’t quick enough for the act.

With the space still between them Sunday halo glowed, left wing puffing up as he shouted, “ HALT!” His voice echoing at giving them command, the perpetrator immediately stopping in their tracks - the dagger just barely grazing Sunday's chest that there was a small tear in his shirt, a halo graphic effect surrounding the edges of their eyes.

“D-damnit you halovian’s and your damn power!” The foxian cursed baring their fangs.

“ Drop the dagger. ” Sunday command again, the person immediately did, the weapon clinking against the ground. 

Caleus was quick to his side, picking up the dagger along the way, “you ok?” He panting, placing a hand on the halovians shoulder creating more space between the foxian and them.

It took the silver hair a second, the shock of everything that just happened still taking effect, “y-yes I’m alright.” He managed to finally say, halo still glowing brightly, “the dagger just barely grazed me but there’s no injury.”

Another figure had also joined them on the bridge, to their shock it had been general Jing yuan, looking out of breath, “are you both alright?” 

They both nodded, “yeah We're fine but how did you know—?” Caelus asked to which Jing yuan sighed.

“I got a call earlier that Mr. Migel was acting strange,” he began to explain, noticing how Sundays shoulders stiffened a little but didn’t say anything, “I went to check it out and he had mentioned about a final step, and that there was an extra person working with him one we didn’t catch because…” his gaze then turned to the ‘foxian’ a cold glare, “ you’re a shapeshifter correct?” 

The ‘foxian’ growled, “damn Brandon! Damn all of you! I knew I shouldn’t have listened to him and just ran.” They spat, mentally trying to budge out of the hold that was on them but nothing worked.

“Mr. Sunday, could you use that power of yours again?” He glanced back at the silver hair who nodded in return. 

“ Reveal your true form. ” Sunday voices echoed once again, his halo shining brightly as he slightly intensified this command.

The person grunted, glaring daggers at Sunday trying everything to fight off the odes of harmony, but eventually they couldn’t fight back anymore. The disguise they had slowly replaced it with their true identity. 

The once foxian that stood before them was a completely different person from what they were expecting. As they revealed more and more horns started to appear on their features, dark blue skin, sharp claws, long silver hair and red eyes were shown. 

Jing yuan didn’t leave much room for anymore talking, he didn’t know how long Sunday's powers would last so he got out a pair of handcuffs securing them behind the person's back.

“I’ll handle this, you two—“ the general was about to say but was caught off guard when Caelus' phone started ringing.

Clumsy, he got out his phone, surprised when seeing it was Himeko calling him, “its himeko um, one moment-“ he cleared his throat, answering the call, “Himeko—?”

“Where the heck are you two!? The general called me not too long ago about an urgent matter of somebody possibly after sunday!” She spoke on the other line, obvious panic in her voice with a hint of relief. 

“So about that— we uh, kinda handled that.”

“WHAT!? How? Are you guys ok? They didn’t hurt either of you did they?” 

“Yeah We're fine! Sunday used his awesome harmony powers and was able to stop the person before they could lay a finger on him, Jing yuan with us now and gonna take care of the rest.” Caelus explained, giving a thumbs up to both of them, Sunday face palming as a rush of heat hit his cheeks, Jing yuan smiling slightly.

“Ok that’s good, where are you two? We’ll come meet you.” 

As Caelus gave himeko their location Sunday drifted his eyes over to Jing yuan, “is this…the last one?” He asked quietly, holding his left arm.

“Yes, I’m so sorry Mr. Sunday I had thought we caught them all but I didn’t expect…” Jing yuan glanced down at the perpetrator again, scowling, making them shrink further, “but rest assured this should be the last. Are you sure you're alright?” 

Sunday shrugged at the question, between the freak out he had earlier than all of this he was…honestly he didn’t know, “I’ll manage, I just wanted to know if they were the last.”

Soon enough the rest of the crew came rushing to the bridge they all stood on immediately surrounding Sunday and bombarding him with questions. When they all arrived Jing yuan had dragged the person away back towards the jail cell.

“Really everyone I’m fine, I wasn’t injured just a little…shaken was all.” He reassured them for the fifth time even when both Himeko and Welt checked him for injuries.

“Well that still doesn’t explain why you're outside at the crack of dawn! Were you getting a late night dessert or something?” March huffed, placing her hands onto her hips.

“March—“ Welt tried to say but Sunday held up his hand, giving the older man a small but sad smile.

“No I wasn’t, I…” he trailed off a bit, clinging onto his sleeve more tightly, a hand settled on his shoulder - it belong to Caelus offering a silent support and a small smile, it was enough to give Sunday enough courage to say this next part, “I had a nightmare. I couldn’t stand being in the room anymore so I had to get out, so with Caelus' help he took me outside for some much needed air.” 

March’s face filtered a bit, feeling bad about shouting and not thinking fully on why the two were out here. She tilted her head down, “Sorry…I-I guess I should've put more together. Just having heard there was someone still after you and then you guys weren’t in the room…I’m sorry.” 

The halovian waved his arms dismissively,  gently reaching out placing a hand on March’s shoulder, “It’s ok March, I understand you were only worried. I'm not upset at you or anything of that sort.” He reassured her which seemed to have perked up the girl's mood again.

Immediately March had thrown her arms around Sunday in a tight hug, he froze for a second before returning the gesture, his smile growing just a little more. The nerves that felt like that were eating him alive, depleting slowly.

After the two break the hug welt joined next to his side, relief ebbing into his bones seeing from himself Sunday was fine physically. Extra relief that another occurrence hadn’t taken place similar to a few weeks ago…Or possibly worse, “I’m just glad the two of you are alright. Do you feel well enough to head back inside?” He asked, couldn't help but glance around the area around them, maybe a little paranoid. 

When the silver hair nodded they all headed back to the hotel, however Sunday wasn’t quite ready to go back to his room. He express this although a bit reluctantly, feeling bashful still about being anxious about just a dumb hotel room.

No one judged him for it though, they all understood and instead sat with him in the lobby. After what conspired in the past 45 minutes Sunday greatly appreciated the company more than he thought he would, the more they chatted the more his nerves had calmed down until they completely vanished.

It was about an hour before the halovian yawned, finally starting to feel exhaustion getting the best of him, “I think I’m ready to head to the room again, thank you all for staying with me.” He offered them a small smile and they returned him one as well.

“Of course, after what happened we wanted to ensure you're alright.” Himeko hummed looking at March who had passed out at some point.

“I’ll carry her.” Dan Heng offered to hoist her onto his back with some help from the red head, his attention looking over to Sunday, “I’m glad you're ok. Good night everyone.” 

Himeko also wished them a good night before the three retreated to their rooms for the rest of the night.

Caelus stretched his arms before getting up from the chair, “Let’s get going sunny, I’m beat after all of that.” He yawned, Sunday humming in agreement.

Before they headed to the stairs welt called out, “before you go Sunday could I speak with you real quick?” He asked gently, Sunday nodded as Caleus headed up the stairs.

When it was just them two welt sighed softly, “Sorry I don’t mean to keep asking, but I just want to make sure if you're ok, really ok.” There was emphasis on that last part, knowing in the past Sunday usually would hide behind fake smiles and small excuses stating nothing was wrong when that was from the truth. 

Welt hated that he couldn’t just go with Sundays words when the halovian mentioned he was fine. But when his, what himeko called “parental-instincts”, kicked in he couldn’t help but double check. 

At first Sunday didn’t answer, turning his head to the side to look at everything but welt when he quietly confessed, “I’m better than I was before but, to be honest I really don’t know.” He paused for a second, when Welt didn’t say anything he continued, “I dreamt I was back in Penacony again, that I was in the church kneeling in front of the altar again.” 

As he continued Sunday fingers tapped against his side, still not looking at welt, “Gopher wood was present as well as Mr. Migel, they were hurting me.” His voice wavered a bit as the wing on Sunday's head twitched, “I begged them to get off but they wouldn’t, they continued to make me bleed more so Mr. Migel than…than Gopher wood but he still stood there just watching me, saying I deserved it.” 

Welt remained silent through the whole explanation, his stomach twisting with disgust of the horrific nightmare Sunday had to deal with.

“At some point Caelus woke me up, but I couldn't…I couldn’t be in that room. The walls felt like they were closing in on me and I felt trapped again.” The tapping on his side slowly inclined to scratches, bringing his other wrist down slowly the edges of his trembling fingertips began to scratch the skin underneath the sleeve, “And the only way I thought would help was to get outside! But then…” 

Immediately the older man saw how Sunday began to scratch his skin, needing to put a stop to it before it broke, “Sunday,” he called out gently, the silver hair finally looking at him seemingly breaking his trail of thought, “do you want a hug?” 

The younger male weakly nodded, welt immediately walking to him and wrapped his arms around him, Sunday slowly returning the gesture. His hand no longer scratching the other wrist as both were now preoccupied clutching onto welts pajamas. 

“I’m tired.” Sunday bluntly confessed. 

“I know, I’m so sorry about the nightmare - but know that both of those people can’t hurt you anymore. One of them is locked away and the other is long gone,” Welt reminded, his embrace tightening a little more, “Same with that person from tonight, they won’t be able to hurt you or try to hurt you anymore.”

Sunday could only nod against welt, he knew this, he was supposed to know this, and it was a good reminder that they couldn’t touch him anymore but…but he didn’t know.

“I’m just tired of feeling like a bird ready to be eaten at any moment.” 

The words were spoken in such a way that made welts heart ache, break the space between them welt had looked Sunday in the eyes, “ we aren’t going to let that happen,” he promised , as welt spoke his tone was firm grasping onto Sundays shoulders, “When we get back on the express we can teach you some self defense techniques so that way when a situation like that occurs again, and for some reason you aren’t able to use your harmony powers, you’ll know what to do to protect yourself.” 

At first the other didn’t say anything still wrapping his mind at how welt exclaimed they all would make sure Sunday was safe. It was comforting in a way because Sunday always had to rely on himself, he always had to protect himself because that’s what he was taught , that if he trusted others they would just hurt him. Yet here the express crew was time and time again disproving that and going out of their way to make sure he was safe, and wanted nothing in return.

“I’ll take up that offer, I didn’t really learn a lot back in Penacony when I probably needed too so I appreciate it.” Sunday finally replied with a small smile, welt pulling him back into a hug that lasted for a couple more minutes before another yawn left the halovian.

A small chuckle left welt, “alright I won’t keep you up any longer, if you need anything my room just down the hall ok?” He patted Sunday on the back whose wings flapped twice.

“Ok, thank you for listening to me.” He smiled to the older man who nodded in return, before both of them made their way upstairs again, both bidding each other goodnight before heading their own rooms for the rest of the night.

When Sunday entered the room Caelus was still up surprisingly. By now he thought the grey hair would have fallen asleep but no he was still awake.

He greeted Sunday with a smile, “did you and Mr. Yang have a good chat?” Caelus asked, sitting more up on the bed, Sunday nodding in return glancing around from something.

“Um, is there any clothes I could borrow for tonight? I don’t wish to sleep in these ones again.” Sunday mumbled, fidgeting with the clothes he was currently wearing, “I didn’t think to bring a spare.” 

Caelus perked up at that, getting up from the bed and over to the dresser rummaging around, “Himeko got ya a pair of pajamas before you were discharged, you were knocked out earlier when we first came in and I didn’t want to wake you. Sorry I probably should've,” He said, pulling out a set of dark blue silk pajamas and handing them over to Sunday, “hopefully the textures are ok, I know you're not a fan of a few.”

Golden eyes widened at the last part, they had…remember that about him? It was a passing expression he said one time how some textures made him uncomfortable. Sunday didn’t think they would remember that and would go out of their way to…

“The textures are fine, thank you Caelus.” Sunday hummed, running his hand along the delicate fabric, the texture was smooth and suitable, “I’ll be back in a moment.” He said before departing to the bathroom to change. 

It only took a few minutes before Sunday emerged again, wearing the new set of pajamas. The other clothes folded in his arms, settling them down on the dresser, then seating himself back down onto the cushion bed.

“You sure you're ok? Do you want me to stay up a bit just in case you have another nightmare?” Caelus asked gently, one looked at his face despite how tired he looked, stating the truth that he would do it. 

While the offer was caring, Sunday merely shook his head, not wishing to keep the other away any further for his sake, “no I’ll be alright, I’m feeling better than how I was earlier. After talking to you all and Mr. Yang, all my anxieties seem to have washed away.” Sunday adjusted himself down onto the mattress, his eyelids barely keeping themselves open, “goodnight Caelus.”

“Goodnight sunny!” 

The two drifted back to sleep, for the rest of that evening there were no more disturbances as they both relaxed easily despite the chaos that was tonight’s events. 

Chapter Text

A couple days had passed since that night with the surprised encounter and in general just a chaotic night, but finally the casts that were on Sunday wing and ankle had been discarded. Despite not openly showing it Sunday was beyond relieved to have the casts off, being able to move again without any assistance and the stress of trying not to move his right wing a lot made him feel lighter again. 

Having the cast of his wing as well made him feel more balance, Sunday couldnt recount how many times he stumbled nearly falling on his face if the others weren't there to catch him. It was quite embarrassing and he tried to rid of the memories but march and Caelus lightly teased him about it every now and then. 

Now being back into full recovery meant they could also return to the express again, to get to their next leg of their journey. 

As they were walking to the docks that would transport them back onto the express, a pleasant surprise was waiting for them all as a group of people were waiting for them, all greeting the crew  with smiles. 

The people there were Yanqing, Lady Lingsha, Lady bailu, and General Jing yuan. 

“You didn’t think we were gonna let you guys go without saying goodbye first did you!” Yanqing beamed, Caelus going over to him and ruffling up the blonde's hair, “haha! Hey, watch it!” 

Lady bailu practically dashed over to Dan Heng wrapping her arms around him, “stay safe Danny on your next adventure! Remember to take care of yourself and don’t forget to visit!” She exclaimed looking up at Dan Heng who patted her purple hair.

“I will, and you make sure as well to take care of yourself too.” Dan Heng replied, smiling softly down at the young vidyadhara.

“Don’t worry, as a healer it’s my job to also take care of myself!” 

Next to them lady Lingsha was once again giving both Sunday and welt a lecture about how to not overdo themselves. It was probably the 90th time she had done this, especially to welt considering he was much older than Sunday and sometimes forgets to look after his health first. 

“Mr. Yang I understand that you’ve been out of the hospital but this still applies to you, don’t push yourself with anything crazy. I know you all are trailblazers but your health is equally important.” She pointed her red scale finger at Welt who put his hands up in surrender.

“I-I understand lady Lingsha I’ll make sure to keep in check with my health.” Welt chuckled nervously as a sweat broke down his face. 

“And you Mr. Sunday,” her piercing gaze landed on the halovian causing him to jump a little, “the same applies, especially with your wing and ankle, while they may be out of the casts now don’t push your luck. If you need to take a rest, do so!” Lingsha firmly put before backing up a little, “though I am glad that both of you have made a full recovery.”

“Thank you Miss Lingsha, I’ll also be sure to take a rest when I need it.” He cleared his throat, Sunday would "try" his best to at least but he didn’t say that part outloud, he was still getting use to what ‘taking a break’ means to his body and how much he could push himself. Plus he still felt like he owed the others somethings after everything they done, he offered one time to take care of extra chores when they were all back on the express, but everyone declined - excpet for Caelus but march slapped a hand over his mouth prompting that caelus could handle his own chores.

“And if he doesn’t then I’ll make sure he gets rest.” Welt added a teasing remark causing Sunday's face to flush and wings to puff out, caught a little off guard by the comment - almost seeming the man could read Sundays mind about wanting to do more.

“Mr. Yang…” He groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose, a laughter escaping the older man from Sunday's reaction. 

Just then from the corner of Sunday eye he could see Jing yuan talking to Himeko. Slowly he made his way over, wanting to express his thanks one last time before they departed.

As he approached the two of them spotted Sunday, himeko wishing him a goodbye to walk over to lady Lingsha. The white hair man gaze at Sunday with a soft smile reaching his hand out, “I wish we could've met on better circumstances, but it has been my honored to get to meet you Mr. Sunday. It’s also good to see you back on your feet again, you look more relaxed.”

Sunday returned the gesture and shook Jing yuans hand, his face slightly more flushed, “Even if our first impressions weren’t the best, I still wish to thank you for all you’ve done with helping me. I couldn’t imagine what would've happened to me if it weren’t for you and the rest of the express’s help.” Sunday said with gratitude in his voice, because frankly it was true, if it weren’t for any of them given the state Sunday was in he could very well be dead right now. 

But he wasn’t because he had people who cared about going after him, to protect him, to ensure he was ok. Which he was appreciative of more than he could ever express. 

The general's lips tilted a little more up, “of course, it’s the least I could have done. I’m sorry again about the other night, but I can fully confirm that was the last of them.” He saw the way Sunday's shoulders dipped a bit more in relief hearing that.

“It’s alright, you didn’t know at the time. But I’m glad that was the last one, I don’t wish to put the others in any more danger.” Sunday’s gaze turn downwards the wings on his head clinging to his redden cheeks, clearing his throat to say this next part,”…and thank you again for the sweets. They were good.” 

A soft chuckle could be heard from Jing yuan as his face practically lit up, “I’m glad you liked them!” He said light hearted, “oh by the way if you wish to ever contact me about anything here’s my number.” He reached into his pocket handing Sunday a little piece of paper, “If you or the express should need anything contact me immediately and I will do everything in my power to aid you all.”

Sunday took the small piece of paper sticking it into his notebook as he nodded up to Jing yuan, “I will, again words alone cannot describe how grateful I am to your help but all I can really say is just...thank you.” He said with a small smile, not missing how the generals cheeks pinked a little.

“Of course, any friend on the express is a friend of mine.”

With a few more departing words everyone gathered on the transporter that would take them back onto the express, all of them waving one final goodbye before the machine turned on. One second they were on the loufo, the next they were back on the express. The hum of the engine, the cool air blasting on them, and the sight of the galaxy's outside of the window never growing old to any of them.

March took a deep breath in getting the feel of being back home, “ah I missed this place! Hey where’s—“

“Took you all long enough!” A squeaky voice called out from not too far away, waddling over there Pom-pom stood their paws placed on their hips, “You guys were supposed to be here 15 minutes —!!”

“Pom-Pom—!” March and Caelus cried out cutting the rest of what Pom-Pom was going to say, as the rushed over to the conductor, wrapping their arms around the little creature immediately making them fluster.

“Hey! Hey! This doesn’t mean you all won’t get out of chore work!” They grumbled but returned the hug anyway. 

Himeko giggled as the rest smiled when Pom-Pom basically had to fight their way out of March’s and Caelus’s grip. Before they could drag Pom-Pom back in for another one they quickly scurried over to Sunday, their big eyes looking up to the halovian.

“Mr. Sunday, I heard while you were at the loufu you were…captured.” Pom-Pom's voice grew a tad softer saying that last part as they looked the man up and down, “have all your injuries recovered?”

Sunday stilled for a moment, a bit flabbergasted, never having heard Pom-pom sounding so softly-spoken before. Since getting on the express Sunday was so used to hearing Pom-pom shouting at the others he didn’t even think this side of the conductor was possible .

Breaking from the daze Sunday offered the conductor a comforting smile, “Yes they’ve all pretty much healed up. Though Miss Lingsha still insisted I rest every now and then, though I personally don't see the needs since--” 

“If that’s the case then I have no other choice!” Pom-pom exclaimed though there was a sad look in their eyes, “for the next three days only dusting for you Mister! Even though you out of everyone here gets the train mostly clean I don’t want you overworking yourself!”

Taken aback by this Sunday sputtered, “C-Conductor that really isn’t—“

But Pom-pom held their paw up, “Nope! No excuses, after everything you went through you gotta take proper care of yourself and I’m gonna make sure you do so!” They then grabbed Sundays hand, “Now come on let’s get you to the party car so you can rest your legs and I’ll make a special tea for you!” 

As they started dragging Sunday off the halovian was still Sputtering how none of this was necessary, his wings flapping along his words, yet Pom-pom kept insisting.

And sure enough for the next three days the only chore Sunday did was dusting as much as he wished he could've done more. But the others were more welcoming with taking on a few more chores and helping out while he could relax, plus Pom-pom was very strict about him getting plenty of rest.

Once again Sunday pondered on how he got so lucky to meet such an amazing group. He really would have to repay them back somehow, even though they said it wasn't necessary, Sunday wanted to do something. 

So shyly he asked Robin what to do since he had no ideas. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Robin: why not make them your famous strawberry shortcake! I think it would be a nice thing to do!

Sunday: I don’t know…I haven’t made it in a long time. What if I mess up and they don’t like it?

Robin: I’m sure whatever you’ll do they’ll appreciate you regardless brother! Plus you can always look at recipes online if you're unsure. Would you like me to send you some?

Sunday: no it’s alright, I’ll give it a shot. Thank you sister.

Robin: Of course! Send me a picture! 

~~~~~~~~~~

A smile warmed its was on the halovians face reading the last text sent by Robin. Setting his phone down Sunday glanced around the kitchen, it had been a while since he had last made that recipe. The last time he baked it was when Robin came back to Penacony after she recovered from surgery…it was all he could think of since it was the dessert the two of them had all the time when they were younger, when their mother was still alive.

So it was settled, it took a while to find everything he needed since Sunday barely used the kitchen on the express but he managed.

It took, many , attempts after burning the sponges he doesn't know how many times now, the cream wasn’t the right flavor or consistency, and he was very picky about deciding which strawberries were good and which ones weren’t. But finally he topped the last shortcake with perfection, wiping the sweat from his forehead. 

It was luck that none of the crew came in while he was baking considering how long it was taking.

Grabbing the phone once more as promise Sunday took a picture of the desserts, before going to the astral crew group chat.

~~~~~~~~~~

Sunday: afternoon everyone, I hope I’m not disturbing you all, but I have something for each of you in the party room. 

March: oooo??? Omw!!!

Caelus:  count me in!

Dan Heng: coming.

Himeko: Excited to see! I heard you cooking something up in the kitchen but didn’t want to disturb.

Welt: on the way.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Anxiously Sunday shifted on his feet as he waited for the crew, double checking the short cakes to make sure everything was in place. One by one the crew had filed into the cart, March and Caelus being the first ones to race over to the counter. Their eyes instantly catching onto the strawberry short cakes.

“Woah! You made these!?” March gasped seeing the individual plates of strawberry shortcakes on them, “I didn’t know you could bake!”

“It’s been a while since I have, so I’m sorry if anything is wrong with it, I-I just hope you all enjoy.” Sunday stuttered, using his wings to hide the reddening face while scratching the back of his neck.

“It looks great!” Caelus chimed, grabbing one of the plates and forks. 

The rest joined in, also looking amazed at the desserts they all picked up their own plates. Sunday stood in bated breath waiting for their reactions, his heart racing in his chest as his hands couldn't stop fiddling with the other.

As they all took a bite their faces practically lit up from the sweet yet refreshing taste.

“This tastes wonderful Sunday!” Himeko smiled, taking another bite.

“Agreed, all the ingredients you use for this work so well together. It’s the right combination of not too sweet while also being very refreshing.” Welt hummed, also taking another bite of the dessert.

Dan Heng didn’t comment on anything, but the way there was a small pink to his cheeks, and how half the shortcake was already eaten gave Sunday enough comfort that he liked it. 

Caelus had already devoured the whole thing, March close behind him almost finishing hers, “ya got anymore?” 

Sunday shook his head, “n-no but I can make some more later. I just wanted to do this because it’s the least I could have done after everything you have done for me.”  Before any of them could say anything Sunday raised his hand to stop them, “I know you all said I shouldn’t but I just wanted to. I grew up with that good deeds shouldn't go unrewarded, so please accept this small thanks.” 

At first no one said anything, merely glancing at one another. 

“Well if it means more tasty desserts then thanks are accepted!” Caelus was the first to say.

“Mhm! But seriously sunny We're just glad you're ok, that’s more than enough to give!” March added, taking the last bite of the shortcake, “but seriously please make more of this, it’s so good!” 

Next to them Dan Heng nodded, “we know you would do the same for us if the time comes, you're one of us so it’s the least we could’ve done for you.” 

“What Dan Heng said, while you're on the express it’s our job to look out for one another thats what being a crew is. And we weren’t just gonna let those guys take you away.” Himeko added, also finishing her plate and settle it down on the counter, “if I could I would've given that Migel guy a couple more punches.”

“She’s not lying,” Welt chuckled looking at the halovian, “But thank you Sunday for making these, they were quite good. I can’t add on because everyone has said what I already wanted to say, but We're here for you no matter the case.” 

Sunday didn’t know what to say to all of them, he thought for once he would be the one to leave them all speechless but no, because here he was again unsure of what to say. 

It took him a moment before clearing his throat finally finding the words, “I’m glad to be aboard here, even if it’s been barely over two months it’s…it’s better compared to the years I’ve spent on Penacony.” He said with honesty, because it was true, from the short amount of time he has been on the express compared to Penacony has been a drastic difference, “thank you for bringing me here Mr. Yang.”

The older man smiled, nodding, “of course, glad to have you here.”

For the rest of that day they all hung out in the party car just enjoying each other's presence. After all the chaos and hurt that they all endured in some way this peace felt nice. 

Before he could forget as well, Sunday remembered to send a picture to Robin with the shortcakes. With also an addition of a selfie of all of them after March practically begged for him to take one for Robin.

~~~~~~~~~~

Robin: told ya they would like it bro! 

Sunday: yes, yes you were right they liked it regardless.

Robin: You look happy brother, I’m glad you found a place and people like the astral express. 

Sunday: me too. 

~~~~~~~~~~

Fin.