Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

On the Express Train..

Sunday saw the inside. Clean in a way.. but once he saw March’s and Stelle’s room, he felt his soul leave his body for a fraction of a second before immediately regaining him composure. He did not say much, other than being polite and engaging in subtle small talk…

It was only when he saw Dan Heng reading a book that he liked.. and Dan Heng seeing him hold a book that he liked… that the two hit it off. Clean, bookworms, what else could a recluse have in common? Sunday and Dan Heng just sat beside each other. Albeit at a distance. Whenever there was an interesting part in their books, they would share it with one another. Sometimes they’d just want a second opinion.. or clarification on words. It was a unique yet a recluse’s ideal friendship.

Meanwhile, March 7th was fascinated by Sunday’s tiny little angel wings at the sides of his head. Each time she saw him, her eyes would dart to the wings, her eyes sparkling. She found them irresistibly cute, and whenever the wings fluttered, she would squeal from the overload of cuteness. She would also try and engage in a conversation with Sunday, but in the first day he had been here, she had already failed 28 times. Nevertheless, it’s March 7th so she never gave up.

Stella on the other hand was roommates with Sunday. After all, there was no other room so.. Sunday was just sleeping on the floor. Why? Because Stelle had said “Why not sleep on the bed with me?” She meant it as a polite request, but Sunday instantly declined. It was only after she said that that she realised it sounded quite flirtatious and immediately clarified. Sunday nodded, understanding her view and forgave her for her mistake. However, he still slept on the floor.

Himeko was more of a mother figure to Sunday. Whenever he was reading with Dan Heng, she’d check up on them if they wanted a snack. For lunch, she asked Sunday what he wanted. To which Sunday said “Anything is fine, Miss Himeko” but Himeko purposely bought higher-class ingredient to suit Sunday’s taste. She knew he was trying to be polite, but she would never take advantage of it. Himeko felt that the Express was a second home, and that everyone should be as comfortable in it as their own homes.

Welt was a guardian to Sunday. He’d occasionally make small talk, or the other way around. The two had a mutual understanding. Sunday knowing that Welt was reliable, and Welt actually feeling slightly happy that the Express now had another responsible member besides Dan Heng and himself.

The first day of the Astral Express being with Sunday went quite well, with the friendships formed and roles established.

Chapter Text

Yesterday was an ordinary day…

..Today, however… was far from that.

“STELLEEEE- PLEASEEE? I WANT TO SEE SUNDAY IN FLUFFY COMFY CLOTHES!!” March 7th pleaded, even getting on her knees. “NO- March..?! I mean, I do want to see him in that- But Himeko and Welt will scold us..!” Stelle said, although she was secretly considering it.

Dan Heng slightly sighed at the two’s antics, wondering how today will go… and Sunday? He was just staring blankly at them. As if questioning their audacity to say this in front of him.

“Wellllll- what if he agrees to it?!” “In your wildest dreams-!” The two bickered and bickered til they turned their gazes to Sunday.

March 7th: “SUNDAYYY- pleaseeee??? I’m sure Miss Robin would have wanted you to be in these clothes..!” March said, holding up a casual and comfortable looking outfit.

Stelle: “March that’s blackmailing- …Oh hey, it’s actually.. not that bad..” Stelle said, her brain trying to process that March actually made a sensible choice, for once.

However, the two were met with an immediate, yet formal, refusal from Sunday. March’s face fell but she did not give up, and kept pleading and pleading him.. Dan Heng simply let out a tiny sigh and Stelle was exasperated, yet amused with March 7th’s antics. Himeko and Welt watched from afar, not stepping in since the situation didn’t pose much harm to their friendships with one another.

Sunday kept refusing, politely.. til March’s pleading started making his resistance waver. He had refused over 100 times, yet here she was. Begging, pleading, worshipping him.

March 7th: “PLEASEEEE??! JUST- ONE- MINUTE!!” March said, her eyes sparkling as she held the comfy clothing in front of Sunday… Sunday felt his resistance really start to waver. Stelle stifled a chuckle and Dan Heng felt a slight glimmer of amusement from this situation. Himeko was silently chuckling to herself and Welt was serious as ever.

Sunday: “Miss March…” Sunday said, a hint of exasperation seeing through and March 7th took the opportunity. “PLEASEEE??? I PROMISE!” She pleaded, til Sunday let out audible, yet small sigh and forced himself to nod. “…If that is what you wish…” March’s eyes lit up as she pushed Sunday into the changing room…

Stelle was slightly shocked that even Sunday fell under March’s pleadings, but he was quite stubborn on his own. Most would fall prone after just one time, but he resisted more than a 100 times… Dan Heng was slightly impressed, and made a mental note to ask Sunday for advice later on how to resist March.

..As Sunday came out, a few minutes later…

…His grey suit and tie.. formal attire… Were now replaced by a light blue jacket, underneath was a black T-Shirt and the pants were long, yet comfy… It was such a stark contrast to his formal attire, that even March’s jaw dropped.

March 7th: “…THIS IS SO WORTH IT-!” March immediately got out her camera and started taking many pictures whilst Sunday accepted his gaze and zoned out, tuning out the Astral Express’s shocked reactions.

Meanwhile, Stelle was still in a state of shock, Dan Heng had recovered but was now analysing this new outfit. It actually suited Sunday. Himeko nodded approvingly, and Welt stayed silent.

The Express however, reached a common consensus.. Sunday looked better in casual outfits than his usual formal one.

Chapter Text

The Astral Express decided to all go on a shopping trip. Excluding Welt and Himeko. March and Stelle dragged Dan Heng and Sunday along, both determined to dress them and themselves up well.

Dan Heng: “…This is futile.” Dan Heng muttered under his breath, and Sunday gave a slight nod of agreement but Stelle and March simply lugged them towards the shopping centre faster.

There, the clothes were all neatly arranged. Stelle and March rushed to the male section, and picked out the most cozy and comfiest of outfits..

Eventually, they forced Dan Heng and Sunday to change into them. Stelle said to Dan Heng that she’d burn his books, and March said to Sunday that she’d make him wear worse at the Express if he didn’t wear it now.

As they came out..

Sunday was wearing a formal, dark blue jacket on top of a white t-shirt with long black pants, his angel wings at the side of his heads slightly fluttering. A sign he didn’t know that meant he acknowledged this.

Dan Heng came out wearing a dark grey hoodie, with a black shirt underneath. March really wanted him to look emo, but the long grey pants combined with the others actually made him look quite good. It fitted him a lot, yet he certainly preferred his more traditional outfits.

Then, it was March 7th’s and Stelle’s turn. With a skip in their step, they picked out an outfit and changed into them..

Stelle wore a jacket that was half down, exposing her shoulders slightly whilst wearing a crop-top and long, baggy pants. Quite a trendy outfit.

Stelle: “Ooo~ Hey this isn’t that bad-!” March bounced up and down, nodding in agreement with a bright smile.

March went for the cute theme, wearing a pink dress full of frills, laces and everything quiet. Hearts, flowers and roses.

March: “WOWWWEE-! I love this!!” March exclaimed, squealing at how cute she looked. Stelle liked her outfit, but it felt like something stabbed her heart as she checked the price tag.. Even Sunday was slightly surprised by how expensive it was. And that was coming from someone who was a multi-millionaire? Billionaire? Trillionaire?

In the end, all the outfits were bought.. except March’s who had to settle for a simple cute cat hoodie, black t-shirt and blue, denim shorts. Much cheaper, and more affordable.

When they came back on the Express, wearing their outfits.. Welt and Himeko could not help but feel surprised at the change. The casual outfits suited ‘Trailblazing’ quite well, since after all, it did mean exploring and freedom. Expressing themselves in terms of clothing.. It wasn’t unusual, it was quite appealing actually.

Himeko had a smile of approval while Welt nodded. Stelle and March high-fived each other, having earned the Elder Folks approval while Dan Heng and Sunday quietly observed. Dan Heng’s outfit was growing on him, and Sunday did not even know he actually preferred this outfit.

It was a simple outfit change, but it depicted their personalities quite well..

Chapter Text

As soon as Sunday woke up, he was grabbed by Stelle and dragged over to the couch like a mother educating their child. There, she forced him to sit down with March 7th besides her, having a proud expression. Himeko had an amused smile, Welt was serious as ever and Dan Heng was calmly observing this whilst Sunday had a hint of bewilderment.

Stelle: “Starting from today- No more formalities from you! Even Dan Heng doesn’t call me Miss, so you can’t too!” This sentence caught Sunday slightly off guard. March burst into laughter, Himeko stifled a chuckle. Welt and Dan Heng simply observed.

Stelle: “Your always so formal, it’s amusing and irritating so just drop the formalities okay?? And also swearing is allowed on the Express- you can be informal.” The idea was absolutely foreign to Sunday whereas March 7th was clutching her sides, Himeko was full-on laughing, Dan Heng had a hint of amusement in his eyes witnessing Sunday’s reaction and Welt was serious ever.

Sunday: “…Drop.. the formalities..?” Sunday said, as of the idea was new/foreign to him.

Stelle: “Yes! Drop- The- Formalities!! Come onnn- Say one informal sentence- or at least say my name without a ‘Miss’ or any of those fancy words!!” Stelle leaned forward, giving Sunday puppy dog eyes.

..Sunday eventually relented after 10 minutes, and persuasion from March. Seeing his slightly resigned expression, Stelle and March 7th high-fived each other before turning their gazes back to Sunday. Himeko observed with an amused smile, the hint of amusement in Dan Heng’s eyes growled and Welt’s serious expression slightly softened seeing the amusing sight.

Sunday: “…Ste.. Stelle.” Sunday said, albeit a little reluctantly. Stelle, hearing this pumped her fists up in the air and cheered.

Stelle: “HELL YEAH-! Look! The rich boy dropped the formalities!” Sunday hid his slight annoyance at that nickname, and March 7th joined Stelle in the cheering. The chaotic duo had managed to make the emotionless one drop formalities. Even if they did.. force him.

Unbeknownst to the Express, this was a stepping stone towards melting the Fallen Angel’s frozen heart.

Chapter Text

Evening came and Stelle called Sunday out of her room for dinner. As Sunday sat at the dinner table, he politely ate the food that was cooked by Himeko. Despite it being much lower than his usual standards, he forced himself to eat it anyways. Manners always came first in the world of formality. Stelle and March 7th were.. the opposite of him. Happily munching on anything with no self-restraint. Dan Heng’s ate calmly, Welt ate like he was at a business meeting. Only Himeko ate actually normally, besides her less than edible coffee than she drank.

As the group ate together, a conversation started. “What does Trailblaze mean to you all?” Welt replied that he joined the Astral Express because Himeko saved him and his companion. Thus, he stayed along. In reality, he stayed because Himeko reminded him of someone he knew.. but he would never reveal that. Himeko simply said she wanted to trailblaze after finding the Astral Express’s Train wreckage, and was curious about the world.

Dan Heng: “The meaning of Trailblaze… fascinating. I unfortunately, have no answer for that.” Dan Heng replied calmly. He had never told March, Stelle or Sunday this. However, the reason he joined was because he had helped the Astral Express’s defeat a mob of monsters, and Himeko invited him on the ship. He wasn’t planning to stay, but ultimately became a permanent member after realising that this place was a safe haven.

March cheerfully replied that she’s on the Express because Himeko found her. Thus, she stayed since she has no recollection of her past and because she likes everyone here. Wanting to journey with them, she decided to embark on this perilous journey of Trailblaze.

Stelle replied that Dan Heng and March 7th found her, so she felt the need to return the favor. Besides, staying at Herta Space Station was definitely a worser choice than joining the Astral Express, in her opinion.

All eyes turned to Sunday for his input. Some curious, some calm.

Sunday: “…I’m here because of my sentence.” He replied, calmly. Stelle groaned, wanting him to at least fake an interesting response. March stifled a laugh at Stelle’s reaction, and Himeko had an amused smile. Dan Heng and Welt simply observed this commotion.

However, secretly.. Sunday was starting to actually not mind their company. He found it.. quite refreshing. Free in fact. He could say his honest opinions.. although he hid a lot, even getting one, real thought out was much better than his life back at the Family’s House.

Would these views change in the near future..? Perhaps, but some will remain the same whilst others.. would undergo a drastic change.

Chapter Text

Sunday was sleeping in Stelle’s room. Stelle was snoring loudly, while Sunday was still awake. In fact, he rarely slept. At the Family’s House, he was constantly afraid something would happen. Even on the Astral Express, that feeling lingered.

As he slept on the cold hard ground, he couldn’t help but reminisce. The Family’s House gave him a luxurious bed, yet sleeping on the ground made him feel more comfortable. Why was that? He pondered.

It was already 3am, he hadn’t slept. He thought this was normal, till Stelle woke up.

Stelle: “Huh-? You aren’t asleep..?” She said, rubbing her eyes groggily. “It’s quite late…” She forced herself to get up and head over to where Sunday was. Sitting against the bed, on the floor. “It’s your second night here.. still not adjusted?” She asked, casually.

Sunday got up, meeting her gaze as well as he sat upright. “No, it’s the norm for me Mi- …Stelle. I.. never slept much. Even at my original ‘home’.” Sunday replied, emptily as usual.

Stelle, hearing this felt a pang in her heart. She didn’t know what exactly happened to him, but it must have been trauma inducing. “Ya know, that’s goddamn tragic..” She said, a hint of concern as she sighed. “Anything that can make you sleep?”

Sunday shook his head, not knowing. And Stelle let out a heavier sigh. “That’s problematic… sigh, your a pain sometimes ya know?” Stelle said, but she said it in a more light-hearted way.

Sunday, hearing her tone, didn’t take it to heart. “I apologise.” He still said. Stelle slightly chuckled at his response. “Wanna wake up everyone and ask them for help?” Stelle playfully said, and Sunday immediately shook his head. To Stelle’s amusement. “Alright, alright… then whatcha gonna do? Just.. lay down?” Stelle said, laying against the bed.

Sunday nodded, not having any better of a solution. Stelle let out an even heavier sigh. “You know what.. take the bed.” She said, reluctantly. Sunday’s eyes slightly widened but he refused. “It’s impolite of a guest to-“ Stelle wasn’t having any of that as she pulled Sunday up and threw him on the bed. “None of that nonsense- sleep you chicken wing boy..” Sunday felt a slight tinge of irritation hearing that nickname, but it was concealed under his empty demeanour.

Stelle went out of the room, and came back with a fully awake March 7th. Holding plushies.

March 7th: “Yoo hoo! Heard you couldn’t sleep-?~ These plushies should help!!” March cheerfully said as she stuffed them on Sunday’s head and body. Stelle followed suit, the two burying him in a mountain of plushies. Rendering him unable to speak.

March 7th and Stelle stifled chuckles at the sight. But Sunday, being enveloped in this mountain of plushies felt a strange sense of warmth and comfort wash over him. The thought was so tiny… yet he couldn’t help but think that this was familiar a human’s embrace..

Eventually, out of his own will, he dozed off quite quickly. Stelle and March, witnessing this, were quite surprised but kept their laughter down. Eventually, Stelle shut the door and went to sleep in March 7th’s room. Letting Sunday enjoy his sleep.

It was the first peaceful sleep Sunday had in a long while.

Chapter Text

As Sunday woke up from his peaceful nap, he found himself at ease… It was the first in a long time, he couldn’t help but feel better than usual. For example, usually he’d feel empty… but now, he feels a slight glimmer of warmth. Why is it? He still cannot answer this question.

As Stelle went to get him for breakfast, he apologised to her for taking her bed. To which Stelle shrugged it off and said that it was nothing. Besides that, she chose to give up the bed so he shouldn’t worry about it too much. Sunday nodded, yet his slight feeling of guilt was still there.. However, it was quickly diminished by his frozen heart, and an unexpected question from March 7th that caught even him off guard at the breakfast table, along with the others.

March 7th: “Hey Sunday!! So uh.. weird question, can I poke those tiny wings of yours?” March said, curiously. Sunday’s eyes slightly widened in surprise, but the feeling quickly disappeared. “I see no problem. However, please be gentle.” Sunday said, in his usual empty tone. March’s eyes lit up and she immediately got up from her seat and started gently caressing Sunday’s tiny wings.

March 7th: “Wooaaahhh!! They feel just like a bird’s!” March said, fascinated and in awe of the texture. Stelle observed this from afar with an amused smirk, Dan Heng’s and Welt’s expression remained unchaining, but Himeko had a curious smile. Sunday felt nothing at first, but eventually the tiny flicker of warmth in his heart grew. Why was that? Why did this feeling feel so… familiar? He couldn’t quite place his finger on it, yet it felt like a feeling he had longed for.

March was oblivious to Sunday’s inner thoughts, obviously, and continued gently stroking his wings. “This is really- really nice to touch!!” March said, innocently and bubbly. Unconsciously though.. Sunday felt himself slightly leaning towards her touch. Welt, Himeko and Dan Heng noticed this, but didn’t say a word. However, the three of them felt slightly surprised… it was only Himeko who understood what this really meant, and her smile became one of a mother caring for their child.

After March finished, she hummed before stepping away from Sunday and eating her breakfast. Sunday went on to eat his breakfast as well, but he felt Himeko glancing at him more often. To which he did not comment on.

Stelle however, secretly took a photo of the moment. She hadn’t noticed Sunday slightly leaning into March’s touch at first, but after reviewing the photo she realised his head slightly tilted towards her… Stelle was about to comment, till Dan Heng seemed to know what she was about to do and placed his hand on her arm. A silent signal not to. Stelle immediately closed her mouth, but she couldn’t help and ponder the reason why…

There were unanswered questions, yet no one posed them. Some because they were forcibly shut up, and some because they knew better than to tease an already broken soul.

Chapter Text

At night, Sunday was reading a book alongside Dan Heng. The two quiet ones read together, maybe exchanging some comments from time to time…

Till March 7th barged in. Much to Dan Heng’s slight annoyance and to Sunday’s slight surprise.

March 7th: “SUNDAY, MISS ROBIN JUST TOLD ME YOUR TALENTED IN MUSIC?!!” March said, holding up her phone. On it were her chat logs with Robin. Dan Heng felt slightly taken aback, not expecting Sunday to be talented in music of all things, yet it somewhat suited him. However, Sunday was more interested in how March 7th had managed to obtain Sunday’s contact. Nevertheless, he didn’t speak his mind due to it not being a pressing matter. To his surprise, March immediately dragged him out of the room. Leaving Dan Heng alone in the Data Bank to read.

Outside, March 7th begged Sunday to play a piece of Robin’s songs. Stelle, hearing this was intrigued and walked over. “What’s the commotion?” She asked. After March 7th explained everything to her, Stelle had an amused glint in her eyes. “Huh, so the chicken wing boy has a talent? Never would have guessed.” Stelle said, silent snickering. Sunday felt a very slight hint of irritation, but it didn’t show.

He was slightly reluctant at first. He reminisced about the times he had played with Robin, and now playing again… It felt somewhat like a betrayal to Robin. As if they had stopped working together… Howveer, looking at March 7th’s pleading reaction and seeing as it posed no harm and it would improve their relationship, he searched up a score online of Robin’s song and hesitantly started playing. Although he didn’t show his hesitance.

As he did, it felt as if he had played this a million times before. The notes came together in an enchanting melody, the harmony making Stelle and March 7th’s ears feel blessed. Each note was played with pin point precision, and the best part? He didn’t break a sweat.

Throughout the song, the melody had attracted Himeko and Welt. Even Dan Heng and Pom Pom. The whole of the Astral Express gathered to watch Sunday play, while Sunday was so focused that he hadn’t noticed the others around him.

At the end… March gave a thunderous applause whilst Stelle’s jaw dropped. Dan Heng gave a small applause, a humongous praise from him. Himeko openly clapped and Welt gave an approving nod, even silently clapping along. Pom Pom seemed to enjoy it as well, due to their usually grumpy face having a smile.

Sunday, witnessing their reactions, couldn’t help but recall a memory.

“Brother, my dream is to make everyone in Penacony smile!! What about you?” A girl cheerfully asked. “Well.. I don’t have one at the moment, so I’ll follows yours!” A boy casually replied. The girl chuckled at that comment.

Looking at the smiles on some of their faces… the flicker of warmth in his heart grew even more. He was starting to place his finger on why… and it surprised even him.

Nevertheless he… for once, in a long while, genuinely felt a slight sense of accomplishment. At first, he thought it would feel suffocating… coming back to something he had been striped of for a long time, and assuming it would feel like he betrayed Robin. Yet, he actually felt like he had taken a step towards finding himself? He… sort of knew why. Yet couldn’t describe the feeling, just yet.

At the moment, he simply politely thanked the crew on their praises and reflected upon the experience. He wanted to find out why he was feeling this flicker of warmth, and why it grew only at certain moments.

Chapter Text

Midnight ticked, Sunday always slept quite late anyways. His phone buzzed, that was unusual. He barely had any contacts… but it kept buzzing, and buzzing till it became apparent someone was calling him. He picked it up, only to be surprised by a familiar voice…

He went to the Parlor Car so as to not disturb anyone, and the person on the other side asked him many questions…

Robin: “Have you been sleeping well? How have you been?” Her familiar cheerful and bubbly voice rang through his head…

Sunday: “I’ve been well, Mis- …Robin. And.. my sleeping schedule is the same.” Sunday replied, emptily.

Robin couldn’t help but chuckle at Sunday’s reply. She felt slightly happy knowing that he was dropping the formalities more.

Robin: “Have you been able to handle the Astral Express?” She asked, with a slightly playful tone. Expecting a rant…

Sunday: “…They’re manageable. Some are untidy, but other than that we’re getting along.” Sunday replied, emptily.

Robin’s eyes slightly widened in surprise. Yet… she felt almost at ease after his reply. In truth, after he had been exploited by the Family she thought his preferences would have drastically changed… Maybe he had became arrogant? Spoiled? His reply had made her feel joy actually, as now she knew that the ‘Brother’ she knew was still there. Just waiting for his chance to shine… or break free.

Robin: “I’m glad you’re getting along…” Robin replied, her bubbly tone now replaced with one of care and warmth.

Sunday noticed this change but didn’t comment. The two had some small talk, and Robin asking him the usual questions, till…

Sunday: “Is it alright if I ask you a question in return?” Sunday asked, emptily. Robin was taken completely off-guard, but her eyes sparkled even as she tried to compose herself. “Su-sure! What is it?” Robin said, actually feeling very happy. He was asking questions… this was a major step forward.

Sunday: “…Whenever the Astral Express does certain activities, I often feel a slight hint of a warm feeling. Why is that?” Sunday asked, emptily.

Robin’s eyes completely widened. Honestly, she was almost stunned… that feeling. He was either describing warmth or happiness, and both were a positive emotion. She quickly shook off the dealing and replied.

Robin: “A-ah maybe it’s because they’re doing activities you like..?” Robin asked, unable to think of a full response due to her lingering shock. However, Sunday seemed to consider this half-hearted response…

Sunday: “Thank you, that’s all I wanted.” Sunday said, emptily. Robin snapped out of her shock and nodded. “Alright then, see you next time! I’ll miss you till our next call~” Robin said, feeling happier than ever.

…Then, an unexpected response came.

“I’ll miss you too. Goodbye.”

Robin’s heart fluttered after hearing this. Never did she expect this reply… not again. Not so soon… A warm smile spread across her face.

“Hey Sunday?”

“Yes, Robin?”

“…Let’s perform together, sooner or later. Like how we did as kids, alright?”

“…Alright.”

And the call ended, with Robin feeling a wave of joy and happiness wash over her. Her determination to melt his frozen heart even stronger.

“I promise… I’ll make you see truly how great the world can be.”

Inside the Astral Express, Sunday pondered Robin’s answer. Oblivious to her absolute joy and newfound determination. He thought of the times where he felt warmth. Being accepted by the Express, having his tiny wings petted by March, being cuddled by plushies and playing the piano… He couldn’t help but make a connection. All these things were the activities Robin and his mother had commonly did in his past…

…Did he miss those moments? He seemed to have found an answer.

And all that he could do now, was deal with the slight shock of the answer he had arrived at. Yet… for some reason. Another hint of a feeling appeared in his heart…

This time, making his lips twitch slightly upwards. He now knew why he was on the Astral Express.

And… it would be for life.

Chapter Text

The next day, during lunch, the Astral Express gathered together and ate.

Then, March 7th started the same conversation as last time during dinner. “Why do you Trailblaze?”

This time, the responses were more thought upon… some the same, but some slightly different. However, one was significantly different…

Welt replied that he joined the Astral Express because Himeko saved him and his companion. Thus, he stayed along. In reality, he stayed because Himeko reminded him of someone he knew.. but he would never reveal that. And yet… he also said that because he cared for each member. Leaving them would make him feel guilty. He said it as if it were a normal thing, yet almost all of the members were surprised besides Himeko and Sunday.

Himeko simply said she wanted to trailblaze after finding the Astral Express’s Train wreckage, and was curious about the world.

Dan Heng: “I joined because Welt and Himeko invited me. It was a safe place after all, and I had nowhere else to go.” Dan Heng said, calmly. However, March 7th and Stelle felt a pang of sympathy…

March cheerfully replied that she’s on the Express because Himeko found her. Thus, she stayed since she has no recollection of her past and because she likes everyone here. Wanting to journey with them, she decided to embark on this perilous journey of Trailblaze. Stelle clapped at March 7th’s reasoning, genuinely liking it. Dan Heng nodded in approval.

Stelle replied in a fuller answer this time. “Well, since March 7th, Dan Heng, Himeko and Welt saved me. I decided to join. Since I had no memories of whatever I was in the past, joining the Astral Express would help me- Trailblaze a future path for myself!” Stelle said, smirking. Obviously proud of the last sentence, thinking it was poetic. March 7th was actually surprised Stelle put effort into her answer, considering the Galactic Baseballer was not really the type to use her brain all too often… Dan Heng seemed to share this same train of thought.

Then, all eyes turned to Sunday. Expecting the same response. Sunday pondered about his response… Why would he stay on the Express? He could adventure the world and find the fragments of emotion he lost like that… So why would he stay?

Then, he recalled all the times he felt a glimmer of warmth… as if fire was piercing through his ice-cold heart. He stayed silent for quite a long time. What differentiated the Astral Express from the public…? He thought and thought, till only one thing came to mind.

Sunday: “…I trailblaze, because my companions accepted me. For who I am and who I was.” Sunday said, calmly. Yet… his tone wasn’t as empty as usual. Something was there…

…The Astral Express went silent. They were not expecting that… March 7th’s expression burst into a smile and her eyes sparkled, she honestly thought he would leave after his sentence was served. Stelle’s jaw slightly dropped but she picked it up and smiled, slightly warmly. “Huh, who knew he could actually say things like that…” Dan Heng and Welt regained their composure, but Himeko now had a motherly smile.

The Fallen Angel’s frozen heart… was thawing. Still empty, but finally beating.

Chapter Text

Today was Sunday’s Birthday. He in fact, did not care in the slightest. A waste of time to celebrate, he thought. Yet… The Astral Express got a text from Robin. Saying that today was Sunday’s birthday. March 7th immediately asked Pom Pom to stop at the nearby planet to buy gifts, Pom Pom agreed. Stelle went with March 7th to buy gifts, Welt and Himeko decided to make their own. Dan Heng scoured his book collection, contemplating which could be given to Sunday. All while Sunday was blissfully oblivious, wondering why no one was at the breakfast table today but paying no mind.

It was only when he heard a knock on Stelle’s door (Since he shares Stelle’s room) that he was really wondering what was going on. He opened the door…

And there he found the entire Express Crew. Holding gifts. He genuinely was caught off guard till he regained his composure.

Sunday: “Who are these gifts for?” He asked, emptily. Stelle snickered and March 7th hit Sunday gently on the head. “You- silly! It’s your birthday today right?”

Sunday’s eyes slightly widened. Oh right, it was his birthday… it had slipped his mind. March, seeing his temporarily stunned reaction, took the opportunity and moved backwards, getting into position and…

Express: “HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUNDAY!!!” March 7th screamed the loudest, Stelle just exclaimed hers. Welt and Dan Heng simply said it calmly whilst Himeko was the only one who said it ‘normally’ in a way.

The Express gave their gifts to Sunday, each pleasantly surprising him. He took the gifts with an empty gaze, yet deep inside he felt grateful.

Sunday: “…I give you thanks from the bottom of my heart.” He formally and politely said as he unwrapped the gifts…

March 7th and Stelle bought him a new book series they thought he’d like, Dan Heng gave him a book. Lastly, Welt and Himeko gave Sunday a handmade bookmark each. Everything was book themed, Sunday pondered yet he did not complain. He was always seen reading books, it was the only thing the Express could use as information to find a gift anyways. Besides, he liked books so the gifts did genuinely make him feel slightly happy… though it didn’t show.

Then, “DING!!” Was heard. Sunday went to the door, opening it only to find the Interstellar Delivery Service. They handed Sunday a package before leaving.

In the living room, the Express gathered to see what was going on. And the package was sent by Robin herself!

Sunday opened it and the Express members peeked, all having different levels of curiosity…

And there inside was a picture of Robin, smiling brightly. Holding a plushie of a white dove… The Astral Express didn’t quite get it and thought Robin just sent a picture of herself, it was beautiful though. However, Sunday’s eyes slightly widened looking at the plushie of the wide dove… it had a halo identical to his.

On the top right hand of the picture, there were words written.. “Let’s perform together again someday! Happy Birthday, my dear Brother!” The Astral Express didn’t see the message…

But for a brief moment, a slight smile appeared on Sunday’s face.

Chapter Text

“Make a choice you won’t regret…” Ringed throughout her head. Why? Why would she make a choice she would regret anyways? Wasn’t that common sense not to?

She could sense there was a deeper, underlying meaning… yet for now, sleep was the top priority.

As she dreamt…

March 7th and Dan Heng were in front of her, asking for her name… to which she gave them the only thing she remembered.

Walking around Herta Space Station, she fought monsters alongside March 7th and Dan Heng. Her new companions. The three of them showed exceptional combat potential, and took down the monsters.

Eventually, they met up with Arlan who was able to restart the elevator, and help them get up to the main room. However, things would go south…

Meeting with Asta, the Head Of The Herta Space Station, an alarm blared. Signalling the breach of defences. It was a Doomsday Beast…

Stelle wanted to stay behind, but Himeko, Dan Heng and March 7th decided it was best to run and dragged Stelle along, wanting to escape…

Yet their path was soon blocked by the Doomsday Beast. Who had breached the Space Station’s defences. So, each member of the Astral Express readied their weapons and fought to their fullest…

Eventually, after ‘defeating’ the Beast… March 7th let her guard down. Only to realise too late that the Doomsday Beast was aiming an attack at her..!

Whether it was an instinct in Stelle, she jumped in front of March 7th. Taking the blow for someone she had just met minutes ago…

Suddenly, the Stellaron that had been lurking inside Stelle activated. Repelling the Doomsday Beast but at a cost… An explosion.

Just then, Welt appeared. Using his cane to knock Stelle unconscious and stop the Stellaron Explosion from happening.

Onwards, Stelle soon regained consciousness. Himeko asked her to joined the Astral Express, and Stelle said she would think it over. Soon, Stelle was summoned by the creator of Herta Space Station. Herta herself, or rather, a puppet.

She tried out Simulated Universe for Herta… which led to astronomical results, and thus led Stelle being coerced to try this whenever she wanted to.

After that, at the platform where the Astral Express drained docked, Stelle gave Himeko her decision. Accepting to join the Astral Express.

(Herta Space Station, concluded)

Chapter Text

As the Astral Express arrived on Jarilo VI, they were greeted with the sight of a planet frozen over. Navigating the surrounding terrain and defeating monsters, March 7th soon found a suspicious looking pile of snow.

Surprisingly, it was actually a human named Sampo hiding under! Sampo explained the situation, that he was being chased by the Silvermane Guards. Jarilo VI’s main security force. The Astral Express agreed to be on his side… for now.

However, Sampo soon abandoned them. Leaving his ‘friends’ to fight the guards alone. After coming to a draw with the guards and explaining the situation, the guards thankfully allowed them to go into the main city of Jarilo VI. Belobog.

In there, they spoke to the head of Belobog. Cocolia alongside her daughter, Bronya. However, Cocolia gave off a weird feeling to the Express…

The next day, Cocolia suddenly ordered for the Express’s arrest. The Astral Express had been betrayed, but they knocked down the guards and escaped through a Cavern.

In there, they defeated many monsters till they were surrounded again… Sadly, the Silvermane Guards and Bronya had caught up to them. The Express fought against them… till Sampo suddenly intervened. Throwing smoke bombs with sleeping gas, effectively saving the Express after abandoning them.

Waking up in a clinic, Stelle demanded Sampo for an explanation. Sampo revealed he was apart of ‘Wildfire’ that saved people. However, he didn’t have much combat capability so he could only step in at that time. Stelle accepted his reason for now, talked to the daughter and took her leave.

After regrouping with March and Dan Heng, the trio were surprised by the sight of Bronya getting saved by Seele. A woman Sampo had praised. As Bronya explained the situation, the Express warily nodded. Agreeing to help Bronya, for now.

Soon enough, they were facing off Cocolia. Whom in actuality, was being manipulated by an evil Stellaron… Fighting with a body possessing great power, The Astral Express was on the verge of losing till THEY gazed upon Stelle.

Stelle retrieved a large sword, being granted the Path Of Preservation. Alongside her comrades and the invention of the Architects, people of the past, they managed to take down Cocolia who sadly perished in front of Bronya’s eyes the moment she was defeated. Having a smile on her face, as the mist in her head was finally cleared and she was free.

Eventually, the Astral Express returned back safely. Allowing them to take the next step of their journey.

(Jarilo VI, Concluded)

Chapter Text

As the Astral Express arrived on the Xianzhou Luofu…

They were respected, greeted by people as their deeds had been made known. Spreading all the way here. Tingyun, a person from the Sky-Faring Commission showed the Astral Express around.

Eventually, they met the General Of The Luofu. Jing Yuan along with his Disciple. Hearing of the disasters happening, and witnessing it themselves, The Astral Express agreed to help the Xianzhou Luofu eliminate the mara-struck individuals and abominations created by the Abundance or a third-party group…

With the help of Fu Xuan, the Head Of The Diviner Commission, the Astral Express was ready to prepare in advance for their fight against a Lord Ravager…

But something happened before that… When Stelle arrived at the scene, her companion Dan Heng had grew horns, long hair and a completely different outfit… Yet she still took his hand. Accepting him without knowing what was going on.

What they didn’t expect… was that the Lord Ravager had possessed Tingyun. “SNAP!” Tingyun’s neck broke, killing her as Phantyllia, the Lord Ravager emerged…

The Lord Ravager was a formidable foe, capturing even the General… but she did not see Dan Heng and Jing Yuan’s plan, getting caught off guard and defeated… or not. This was only one of her forms, yet the major threat was eliminated… for now.

(Xianzhou Luofu, Concluded)

Chapter Text

Arriving on Penacony, The Land ruled by Xipe, the Harmony, the Astral Express was greeted by Sunday and Robin. Excluding Dan Heng, for he decided to stay behind. However… the Express sensed something was amiss. Despite that, hearing a great festival called the Charmony Festival was coming the Astral Express decided to stay.

Stelle soon met with Aventurine, who made her suspect something was up but didn’t harm him. After all, he had given her his hotel room to stay at because the counter had ran out of rooms…

But she should have took action, as a few days passed and the Express were facing off against Aventurine… He had cracked his Cornerstone, something of great value to the IPC and The Ten Stonehearts. Two groups he belonged to, so as to accomplish his mission.

As Aventurine was about to unleash his ultimate attack, Acheron joined in. A mysterious Galaxy Ranger the Astral Express had met… However, she was actually far more than that and was an Emanator of Nihility… so she sent Aventurine to a whole different realm with one, powerful slash.

In that realm, Aventurine came to terms with his past self… even giving it a hat. Acheron spoke some words to him, and Aventurine nodded. Eventually, Acheron spared his life and Aventurine left the realm. Never to be seen by the Express again, not in the sense that he’s dead.

The Day of the Charmony Festival soon came… and the Express faced off against Sunday. Penacony was supposed to be the Land Of Harmony but Sunday was actually a Pathstrider of The Order… who had long been devoured by Xipe, the Harmony due to their paths clashing.

Eventually, the Express was on a losing end till Robin joined in. Her voice uplifting everyone and healing them… Robin was the sister of Sunday, who deeply cared for him and still wanted to give him a chance. To get him back on the right path.

After an intense clash, The Express soon won… As the arena was about to break, Sunday asked one final question. “Why does life slumber?” To which Stelle replied… “Because one day, we will awake from our dreams.” Sunday’s eyes widened as the arena broke, and sent him falling to the ground…

Amidst this, Robin still embraced him. Saying… “Brother, the dream… is over.” And Sunday closed his eyes. In reject, and acceptance.

(Penacony, End)

Chapter Text

After the painful, whimsical, enchanting experiences in Amphoreus occurred…

Two of the three in the Astral Express Trip couldn’t help but reflect upon their experiences.

March 7th, having fused with Evernight was now a little calmer than her original bubbly self… Yet had the same energy. Although a drastically different look, her skin a little paler, her hair less saturated and her outfit much darker… Yet, The Express accepted her for who she was.

She reflected upon her experiences. Meeting her other self, “Evernight” she couldn’t help but wonder once again… “Why did she Trailblaze?”

She recalled the moment she awoke, Himeko dressed her in the outfit she loved the most, she remembered loving her camera so much, taking many pictures…

She remembered the memories she regained… Born from Fuli, The Remembrance, her other side being an enemy of the Garden Of Recollection… maybe even an Emanator or Follower of the Enigmata… And yet, all her other side did was just to protect her… All in good will, despite going too far at certain times.

She remembered the time at Belobog when she chatted with the Trailblazer, she recalled Dan Heng telling her about history… She reminisced all the times she had tried to drink Himeko’s coffee, watched shows with Welt, made him do battle poses… Dressing up Pom Pom in outfits… She recalled all the plushies she bought, the time spent decorating her room…

She recalled the moment when she saw Dan Heng’s transformation, and tested how long he could stay underwater… Spoiler, it was over a hundred minutes.

After walking around for some time, she recalled Cyrene’s motive.. “Love” and what the Astral Express had shown her. “Friendship can overcome many obstacles. As together, we are more powerful than one.”

And lastly, the moment she saw the Trailblazer and Dan Heng in Amphoreus… Yet feeling their physical forms in that moment, her disbelief turned into happiness. She enveloped the two in a tight hug, tears rolling down her cheek. She had been looking for them for over a millennia, and finally seeing them. It felt like a dream, a dream that was too hard to believe…

…Using all ‘her’ memories, March 7th came to a conclusion. Why she Trailblazed…

Because she loved the Express. And wanted to Trailblaze with them, forever and ever.

Dan Heng in another room reflected upon his past… He did not remember many memories. For he was once the High Elder of a long lasting species called “Vidyadhara” and his friend group was called the “High Cloud Quintet” However, one day everything fell apart…

A cherished member from his friend group, Baiheng, tragically passed away. Leaving the members of the group, Dan Feng (Dan Heng’s past self), Yingxing (Blade’s past self), Jingliu and Jing Yuan feeling devastated…

Dan Feng and Yingxing were so heartbroken that after the Preceptors, teachers amongst the Vidyadhara gave the two a ritual that could revive a dead soul… They just had to try it.

Using the Flesh Of Abundance, Shifu, the two thought that it would result in Baiheng getting brought back to life… but in actuality, the ritual failed. It summoned a massive abomination of The Abundance, wreaking havoc across the Xianzhou Luofu and killing many citizens plus Dan Feng’s own species.

Dan Feng was so shocked that he did not even notice Jingliu approaching… with a furious gaze and a tight grip on her sword.

The events passed by so fast… Till the judgement was brought upon Dan Feng. “Sentenced to molten rebirth, eternally.” Read by Jing Yuan himself.

As for Yingxing’s punishment… he was struck by one of the attacks, and ended up gaining immortality. Jingliu repeatedly killed him, torturing him and ended up making Yingxing lose his memories. Turning into Blade, the wanted Stellaron Hunter of the Xianzhou Luofu.

Dan Feng melted into Dan Heng… having little to no memories, constantly having nightmares and hopping aboard ship by ship. Yet he kept getting hunted down by Blade… both of them didn’t recall their friendship with each other, Blade simply wanted to murder Dan Heng…

One day, Dan Heng saved Himeko and Welt from monsters was invited to join the Astral Express. Dan Heng, at the time having no reason to refuse, simply nodded and joined. Planning to only stay temporarily… Yet eventually, it turned into a permanent stay as Dan Heng felt the Express was quite safe…

After the events in the Xianzhou Luofu occurred, Dan Heng was stabbed by Blade. Which ended up in Dan Heng awakening a fraction of his past powers… and transforming into a form that resembled Dan Feng, yet had some gunahesz

After Stelle accepted him, along with the Express, Dan Heng felt slightly relieved… they had accepted him for who he truly was. That, was something as precious as a life.

In Amphoreus, Dan Heng sought out the lost Earth Titan, Terravox, to save the Trailblazer… Terravox was actually related to Long, The Permanence who created Vidyadhara. Since Dan Feng left behind his own Permanence… Dan Heng soon recalled past memories as a trial. To test whether he was worthy or not, whether he accepted the past.

After observing the High Cloud Quintet… Dan Heng made a resolute choice in his hearts seeing their smiling faces, now long gone. Gaining Terravox’s approval, he gained the Earth Coreflame and ascended to the Chrysos Heir Of The Earth. Gaining a new sort of ‘Permanence’ that separated him and Dan Feng… now, Dan Feng could rest at ease. As the two came to a consensus… Dan Heng was now solely one person. No longer having his past traumatise him, for he accepted it… And was now Dan Heng. The guard of the Astral Express, nothing else.

And so, he came to the conclusion. Why he continued, Trailblazing with the Astral
Express…

To overcome the hardships and obstacles… To have a chance at being human, and lastly… To adventure with everyone. His.. friends.

Stelle simply dreamt about her journey in Amphoreus. Meeting Phainon, Aglaea, Castorice, feeling slightly scared when she was tested… Meeting Mydei, going to the Grove after it was attacked and seeing a near dead Anaxagoras, then helping Castorice go to the City of Adonis with the help of Cipher… Meeting Hyacine and uncovering the truth lost above the clouds, finding out Phainon’s eternal
suffering and fate… meeting Hysilens and finding out the truth as to how Cerydra perished… Finally, meeting March 7th, Dan Heng and Cyrene in her new form. Completing the Era Nova and defeating Iron Tomb, saving Amphoreus.

This experience made Stelle stronger than ever… witnessing the deaths, yet pushing through. Carrying their hopes on her shoulder, being… the true ‘Deliverer’ of Amphoreus.

The next morning, as the Astral Express Trio met each other in the Parlor Car, their reactions slightly differed. March 7th smiled, although a little calmer than her smile last time… yet more genuine. And as for Dan Heng… a slight smile twitched at the corners of his lip, subtly tilting upwards. Stelle simply gave her usual nonchalant smile, yet all three of them knew…

Despite the changes, they were now closer than ever.

Chapter Text

Another day, another moment of March 7th’s shenanigans. Even after discovering her true memories, she was albeit in terms of energy a tad bit subdued but having the same curiosity and playfulness.

As Dan Heng and Sunday stopped reading together, March 7th immediately ran over to them and started poking the. Cracking dad jokes in an attempt to get them smile, but her humour fell on deaf ears as she was met with either a slightly exasperated expression or an empty gaze. Both of which were the usual, but not why she wanted.

March 7th: “COME ONNN, SMILEEE!!” March begged, even getting on her knees just to get a glimpse of the two stoic men smiling.

Now, you may be wondering. Why does March 7th want to see them smile? It’s simple. She made a bet with Stelle, whoever can get the two to smile first owes the latter 50 credits.

And so, the endless pleading ensued. Followed by dad jokes. “Hey- what do you call a man who’s missing 75% of their spine? A quarter back!” And all she got were two deadpan expressions.

March huffed and pondered about a way to get the two stoic men to smile… “maybe a book? No, that wouldn’t work- Clothes? Nah Dan Heng would be pissed…. Hm, what other idea is there…” Her thoughts were all over the place till a lightbulb lit in her head and she ran away.

Coming back with a book, she eagerly shoved it in Dan Heng’s face. Hoping for a reaction. Sadly, he was calm as ever but… had a hint of amusement? Was that it? March didn’t know… so she used her ultimate move. TICKLES. Literally she tickled him everywhere and Dan Heng had absolutely no reaction till she asked him to transform- into whichever of his other forms, he had two anyways so she didn’t mind each. Dan Heng agreed since- well he saw no harm but when March started tickling the sensitive horns.. yeah that obviously got a reaction and Dan Heng’s body slightly shook from suppressed laughter- to which his lips twitched towards for a FRACTION OF A SECOND and Stelle’s jaw dropped at the fact March actually succeeded and March jumped for joy. Now, her target was Sunday. Same plan, she just had to catch him-

So she ran at him with full speed. Sunday, now knowing her plan, tried to evade her attacks but his attempts were futile as March caught him and started tickling his tiny wings- to which Sunday flinched at first but since they were so sensitive even he let out a inaudible chuckle- his lips slightly more upwards than usual…

March 7th jumped, happy her attempts worked and Stelle reluctantly paid her 50 bucks. Dan Heng and Sunday just watched, already regaining their composure. March smiled brightly, happy she won the bet. Even if she did technically force the two to smile- but hey, a win’s a win!

Chapter Text

After coming back from another planet, March 7th held a suspicious potion… Himeko and Welt looked at her, slightly suspicious of her actions.

March 7th came running towards the Astral Express Trio, along with Sunday, her eyes sparkling with mischief. However, just as she was about to reach them…

“OOF-“ She tripped over SMOOTH ground and the potion fell to the ground. “CRACK” the potion broke, releasing its fumes…

Himeko and Welt, having been on guard, managed to avoid it. They held their breath… When the smoke dissipated, the sight was clear.

March 7th’s hair had become even shorter, her eyes losing most of their lashes… Stelle’s hair had became shorter as well, losing most of her lashes. Her body also became more masculine… In contrast, Dan Heng’s hair had became longer, having lashes on his eye… and Sunday just- looked like Robin but with grey hair and a blue tint to it-

Welt and Himeko’s eyes slightly widened. Himeko’s JAW dropped, Welt was f—king flabbergasted. What the f—k just happened??

March’s eyes lit up with excitement, screaming “I LOOK SOOO CUTEEE!!” Stelle was admiring her- ahem, HIS new body, with a smirk on her- HIS face. Dan Heng just looked at himself- oh wait, HERSELF with a blank gaze, and you could see a subtle red tint on Sunday’s cheeks that even she- oh I cannot get used to this- did not realise as SHE looked in the mirror.

The Astral Express was sent into total chaos as Stelle and March decided it would be a good idea to try the other’s clothes. With no further ado they stole Dan Heng and Sunday’s casual clothes- putting them on they looked damn good while Sunday and Dan Heng had to unfortunately wear… yeah. Sunday chose Stelle’s outfit since it was less girly and Dan Heng had to suffer wearing March’s… goth? Fluffy? Cute? Oh god what even is it? He was just severely exasperated. Himeko stifled a chuckle at this absurd situation while Welt was already thinking of new names for them. I mean the man was secretly an idol in his past life, he… experienced this before so to say.

Evernight, in March’s mind, silently came out and took a picture. Sure, she was usually ominous and composed… but this was too amusing, even for her to resist. She subtly chuckled before storing the memory in a “Archive” of sorts. Filled with all of March’s memories. Embarrassing moments? She had them. Talking to herself? She had the. And oh boy, this addition wasn’t even the most chaotic…

Anywho, at the end the Express LUCKILY changed back as the potion wore off and wore their respective clothes again. Much to Sunday and Dan Heng’s relief, even if they didn’t show it. What a chaotic day it is today. They both silently thought.

March 7th and Stelle had already started talking about this, fantasising about other scenarios. What if Sunday acted like a girl? What if Dan Heng did?? Ooh, what if their personalities changed!! The two talked about this till midnight.

Little did they know, the dream they would have…

(I’m sorry for taking so long, Part 2 will come)

Chapter Text

“Zzzzzzz…” A mysterious figure took advantage of this as jellyfish engulfed the Astral Express… They were sent into a dream.

“Ugh…” March 7th rubbed her eyes as she sat up from the sofa and woke up Stelle. “Hey, Stelle! Wake up!!” She exclaimed, and the lazy raccoon eventually did. “Stop screaming Marchhhhh-“ Stelle whined, but the next sight made both of their’s eyes widen in pure shock.

“Ah, March! Stelle! You two are awake!~” A girl that looked just like Sunday waved her hand at them, smiling brightly. Their wings fluttering cutely at the side of their head- Stelle’s jaw dropped. March’s eyes widened… “WHAT THE F—K?!” The two thought simultaneously in that damn instant. This looked exactly like genderbent Sunday- but wasn’t the situation already resolved?! Didn’t the potion wear off- what the hell was going on?? March’s mind was spinning while Stelle saw a mischievous opportunity-

However, Stelle tripped on SMOOTH ground when she saw the next sight, and March 7th choked on air- it was genderbent Dan Heng- …BLUSHING?! “Oh- Oh…! You-you two are awake… uhm-uh… Good Morning…” The girl said, looking away… her cheeks bright red.

…March fainted in that very moment. Either from shock, or a HUGE cuteness overload. Stelle’s jaw just dropped so much the raccoon couldn’t pick it up. Nope. Just stunned.

1 minute.

5 minutes.

10 minutes.

Finally- Himeko and Welt appeared… having apparently woken up from their nap. However, as soon as they saw the two boys- Himeko dropped her coffee cup and Welt’s glasses broke.

“…What in gods name-?!” Himeko exclaimed, and Welt just stared with his broken glasses. This was worse than him being an idol- wait who said that??

The… Sunday as of now, just waved cheerfully at the two, smiling brightly- whilst the Dan Heng averted his- ahem, HER gaze and used her hair to cover her face…

The remaining, SANE Astral Express Crew was just stunned. Dead silent. Even POM POM was wondering what happened for the train to be so silent- they stepped out of the kitchen. Took ONE glance at the sight… and dropped the breakfast they made. “WHAT HAPPENED?!” Pom Pom exclaimed with absolute wide eyes. Sunday waved cheerfully at Pom Pom while Dan Heng just gave a slight, SHY nod of acknowledgment-

In that moment, Pom Pom joined March in the fainting spot. Both having fainted for one reason or another…

Meanwhile, in the real world… Sunday and Dan Heng could only stare in horror as Evernight, the mysterious figure that sent the Astral Express into this CHAOTIC ASS DREAM- showed the two what was happening in it. With that same smile on her face… the two boys had to witness the being complete opposites of themselves, and looking all… FeMiNiNe- what the actual hell was happening today…

Sunday was… flabbergasted. Bewildered. Shocked. Stunned. Silent. WHATEVER- and Dan Heng was just staring. His brain had long short-circuited and the Astral Express Crew in the dream had also given up on thinking…

Both sides were just- stunned. And Evernight just smiled through it all… “The train needed some fun anyways..” She silently commented.

Meanwhile, in the dream… Sunday was poking March 7th, playfully shouting for her to “WAKE UpPpPpPpPpPpPpPpPpPpPpP-“ and Dan Heng? He- AHEM. SHE, was staring shyly at the crew… face entirely red. “Did I do something wrong…?” h- no, SHE silently muttered under her breath. Welt and Himeko just stared. Pom Pom’s breakfast was still on the ground. Lastly, Stelle had fainted along with March 7th and Pom Pom.

Now, what better way to start a day than singing..? Yes, Sunday (In the dream) sang “Sway To My Beat In The Cosmos” and “Had I Seen The Sun” while Dan Heng (In the dream) was just staring at him with a shy, yet slightly amused gaze as she let out a tiny chuckle. Himeko and Welt just stared. Yet the two couldn’t deny… this girl version of Sunday damn well-

“WELCOME TO MY! WORLDdDdDdDdD- RENEW, YOUR- DE-FI-NITIONNNN! WOAAAAHHHH SO HIGH! LEMME- SHOW OH OH OH-“ This rang out throughout the Astral Express that somehow made an UNCONSCIOUS Stelle and March shake with laughter-

Evernight silently chuckled at this before releasing them from the dream, or nightmare-inducing dream she put the Astral Express in…

As the day progressed, no one in the crew could look at Sunday and Dan Heng with a straight face. Some averting their gazes and laughing, some… still traumatised- a shy Dan Heng and a happy Sunday were NOT NEEDED-…

For now.

What the Express DIDN’T know was that Evernight also made Robin dream the same thing. But instead, she witnessed everything through a screen and was laughing so hard at Sunday she almost died of laughter, literally. Even if he was like his past self- NOPE, she could NOT keep a straight face…

But deep down, she did wish to see this side one day. Knowing… it was all a dream.

And amidst it all, Evernight rested inside March’s body. Smiling to herself. “This will be an eventful journey…” She muttered. As she gazed to her right…

“You think so too, right?” She said, with an ominous smile. Gazing in YOUR direction.

Chapter Text

“Dan Heng!! Stop reading these boookkkss- don’t you wanna take a break and go out??” March 7th whined, smiling brightly. Dan Heng simply gazed at her with his usual stoic gaze. “Reading is my form of relaxation.”

March 7th drastically tilted her head. What??? HOW- how could READING be relaxation?! It didn’t made sense! “H-how?? Whenever I read books my head spins…” March 7th replied, getting dizzy just thinking about it. Dan Heng simply gazed at March. “It is our difference in upbringings and personalities that affect our view in reading. You see it as a chore, while I see it as… a moment of respite.” Dan Heng replied, his tone cold and calm. His expression unchanging.

March 7th felt her brain just blow up. HOW?? HOW DID HE- she didn’t get it at all. No, how could she?? Reading was such a draggggg… yet this man was calling it uh, respite? What did that mean- UGHHHH another fancy word from him! Seriously…

“Fancy words…” March 7th grumbled. “Hm… well i’m curious now! How did your uh, up- up what again? Oh yes, upbringing affect your view on books! Pleaseeee?? I wanna know!” March 7th said, giving Dan Heng puppy dog eyes…

Yet deep down, he… didn’t know. Why did he say that? What- upbringing..? The Shackling Prison? He read books there for comfort, barely even knowing why he was there… no, it wasn’t just that. It was-

“High Elder, here are the reports today. Please review them, I know you are still a child but your duties come first. Hobbies are irrelevant, the reputation of the Vidyadhara rest on your shoulders.” ??? said. “Oh- okay!” A young, High Elder of the Vidyadhara replied.

…This repeated. He couldn’t remember wha happened in between, he remembered fragments of suffering. Just fragments of him banging the table with his hand. Why? Why was he-

“…I have to do this. For the Vidyadhara.” A voice exactly like Dan Heng’s said. Reading through scrolls, stamping them. Dan Heng’s couldn’t even process this before the memory ended and a new one manifested.

He was transported down to another memory. “Dan Fenggg! Geez, you spend too much time on hooks! Don’t you wanna take a break??” A cheery voice rang out. It was… just like March. Who were they again? Bailu? No, it wasn’t it… it’s on the tip of my tongue… I can feel it. It’s…

…His eyes widened.

“Baiheng…” March 7th tilted her head curiously. “Dan Heng, who’s that??” Her voice made Dan Heng come back into the real world. For a moment… he thought he saw March 7th with long purple hair and fox ears. He just… stared.

1 minute.

2 minutes.

“Dan Heng..?” (Error) said.

3 minutes.

4 minutes.

5 minutes. He saw it. They were sitting around. No, standing. Around a statue of (Error) drinking (Error) talking among themselves with (Error) on their faces.

“Dan (Error)! Come on, join us!” That same (Error) voice said.

“Alright…” Dan (Error) replied. Walking towards the group with a fon- (Error) s-(Error)le

6 minutes.

7 minu… The girl kept trying to get his attention. Shaking him, thinking this was a game.

8 min…. The girl had a hint of concern. Now becoming more desperate. Shouting some words.

9 mi- (Unavailable)

“Hey- are you okay..?! I’ll get Himeko and Mr (Error) just stay t- (Error) (Error) (Error)-“

Dan Heng held his head, his breathing becoming quicker. Baiheng… Baiheng it sounded oh so familiar…

His chest rose and fell at 3 times its normal speed. His (Error) beat even faster. Cold sweat formed at his forehead, trickling down his face…

“Baiheng, Baiheng-“ His eyes flickered. His pupils became smaller. The man stayed hyperventilating, his breathing reaching alarming rate…

While the Hyperactive Girl was away, a raccoon and bird saw the next sight.

His hands moved from his head to his chest. Clutching it tightly, digging his nails into it. It hurt. It hurt so much. He couldn’t make a noise, the more he breathed the more it hurt. Why? Why did it hurt? Why- it hit. It hurt so much. Tears flowed down, he didn’t even know why. Why was this (Error) causing him so much (Error)? Why- (Incoherent thoughts)

The raccoon and bird tried to pry his hand away from his chest. That grip was hard… The raccoon had to use all her strength while the bird used golden vines.

Eventually, the ‘cheery’ girl came. Along with Terrible Coffee Maker and Glasses Uncle.

“DAN HENG! WHATS WRONGG??!!” A panicked voice rang out. “Dan Heng, calm yourself down..!” A almost motherly voice rang out… “He’s having a panic attack.. what caused this, (Error) do you know?” A deep, velvety voice said. “No, I really don’t..! I’m sorry (Unregistered), I’m sorry- please just don’t-“ (Error) (Error) (Error) (ErRoR) (eRrOr) (E-)

…Before he passed out, he felt water droplets fall on his face. Some incoherent words too. “DAN (Error) PL- (Error 123) (Error) SA (Unable to make out) SO- (Incoherent)” He caught a glimpse as well.

The raccoon was shaking him.

The bird just stared.

The ‘Hyperactive’ Girl was sobbing.

The Terrible Coffee Maker was moving their mouth. So was Glasses Uncle. They said things the man couldn’t register.

…After a few seconds, the man’s vision became enveloped in darkness. He collapsed. He didn’t respond. His chest still rises up and down, but he didn’t utter a word.

Chapter Text

Why?
Why does it hurt? Didn’t I come to terms with my past?
Why am I remembering more?
It hurts…
Someone, anyone.
Miss Himeko, Uncle Yang, March 7th, Stelle, Sunday… anyone.

“..To see you in such a state after my passing…. Ah, it gives me such a bittersweet feeling.”

The man simply heard this voice.

Where was it coming from? Where… who was that? It was a voice he’d never heard… or so he thought.

“…Even after rebirth, you’re still plagued by your past.. It pains me, Dan F- ah, no… Dan Heng.” The figure placed a comforting hand on the man’s shoulder.

“…Please don’t be like this because of me.. I sacrificed myself to save you, not to put you in more agony…” The figure moved on to petting the man’s head.

“Ah, but getting all sentimental isn’t like me huh? Well, I can’t help it… Haha, usually I’d talk about the past but.. In your situation, I think that’s a bad move!” The voice said, becoming more bubbly as they hummed a soft tune.

“Come onnn, your friends are waiting and scared half to death! Wake up already!!” The voice rang out. The man felt his consciousness returning as his eyes slowly fluttered open… he looks around. Seeing a blurred figure. Long purple hair with fox ears… it was the same figure he’d saw in that memory…

“Bai-Baiheng..?” The man’s voice said. Even if the man couldn’t see it, Baiheng’s expression visibly softened. “You weren’t supposed to remember me… I wonder what triggered it?” Baiheng said, curiously with a touch of concern. “Are you feeling better now?” Baiheng extended her hand to which the man took it. Helping him get up.

The man nodded in response to her question, still slightly dazed from the ordeal. “Yes… thank you, Miss Baiheng.” That name.. Baiheng felt a bittersweet feeling well up in her. “…No problem, Dan Heng- ah wait, formalities are needed since this is our ‘first’ meeting right? Hehe, then… Sir Dan Heng?” Baiheng replied, teasingly with a hint of sincerity. The man nodded, still not fully conscious. “Yes, that’d do.”

An awkward silence fell upon the two, till Baiheng broke it with her cheery personality.

“Hey… you have really nice companions! They are genuinely seem to care about you..~” Baiheng observed, smiling. The man replied in his usual composed tone. “Yes, The Astral Express are my valued companions.” …Baiheng’s smile widened. “That’s all?”

This question caught the man off-guard. “Haha, I thought you would consider the family!”

…Family. That word felt familiar… not literally.

As if he had a family before.

“…Yes, I suppose I could consider them family.”

“Hm? Oh?? Haha, that’s a jump from ‘valued companions’! Care to explain why changed your mind?”

“As I thought about it, I thought it suited them. They have always been by my side, through thick and thin. And… I felt as if I had a family before. Before I even joined the Astral Express. Before my time in the shackling prison.”

Baiheng’s eyes widened. So… he recalled more than what she anticipated. Quite impressive for a rebirth. “Oh? That’s nice!! You must really like them huh?” She chuckled.

The man nodded. Almost… subconsciously. Why did he nod? He… did not know. Baiheng saw this and chuckled, brushing a strand of hair off his face. “Is it selfish of me to be happy that we met again?”
She sheepishly asked, knowing how much pain the man had to go through before the two could meet.

The man wanted to nod but… this girl, she seemed like an important friend. Why? Why was she- Baiheng noticed him trying to think, and flicked his forehead. A little urgently. “Ahaha… don’t question it okay?” What? How did Baiheng know what he was thinking-

Baiheng just smiled brightly. “We have met before… but let’s just say we met in the past, okay?”

The man’s head immediately shot towards her. “What do you mean..?” He asked, almost incredulously.

Baiheng’s smile became bittersweet. Softening. “The past you came to terms with… I am from it. From your time as… you know.” She said, quieter.

…The man seemed to regain a little more consciousness at her statement. Dan Heng finally ‘awoke’ and his eyes slightly widened. It all made sense… why he felt like they had met before. Why his head hurt…

But why weren’t the memories erased?

As if Baiheng what he was thinking, she shrugged. “No idea!” She said, before getting up with a somber smile. “Ah… welp, times up..! We’ll never meet again after this…” She trailed off.

Dan Heng wanted to reach out, but refrained from doing so. “I see.” He didn’t say more. Yet… he felt almost hollow? Like a part of him had been torn away.

Baiheng smiled as she walked further and further away. Her steps fading into silence… The man felt a pang in his chest.

But, Baiheng suddenly said a sentence.

“Ah by the way… I forgive you.”

Baiheng disappeared. After she said those words, Dan Heng fully regained consciousness.

Dan Heng’s body immediately rose, his eyes shooting open in the real world. He looked around, breathing heavily. March 7th had screamed when he suddenly woke up, but then she immediately hugged him.

“You-! You scared all of us..!! Just now and a few hours ago..!” March 7th exclaimed, tears rolling down her cheek. Stelle immediately went to alert the rest of the Astral Express Crew that Dan Heng had woken up.

The rest of the crew had different reactions, but all definitely felt relieved. Some comforted him, some stood the side but silently offered a listening ear. One… didn’t feel anything, but their smile became smaller.

Dan Heng nodded at all their reactions. Acknowledging them. Yet… his thoughts were overwhelmed. “I forgive you” it sounded oh so significant yet… he couldn’t quite remember why. The part that was torn away from him healed and pieced back together, and more parts came back as well.

His past… to fully accept it, he must know all the events. And only one person that accepted him could give him the answers… but was he being selfish asking them? Would it cause them pain..? The consequence battled with Dan Heng’s curiosity, but eventually the care for this… ally? No. At this point… they were a ‘friend’. They accepted him, he should at least give them that. For now, he’d put aside his curiosity…

And enjoy the time in his new home.