Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

‘Dear Kiana,’ was what Welt's letter would have started off with if the Express hadn't jerked. As he decided to start anew, another bump and a rumble sounded around him as Pom-Pom's voice sounded on the loudspeaker.

“All Astral Express members, please remain seated. We are currently experiencing space turbulence.”

A loud crash came from the next car over. Startled and worried, Welt ran to see the commotion.

“Cal! Dan Heng!” March yelled as the car rocked to the side, and they all went tumbling into Dan Hang's room.

Welt hurried to see if they were alright. “Are you three alright? Surely you didn't break any bones.”

March scrambled off of the two boys as Dan Hang helped Caelus to his feet.

“We're alright, Mister Yang.” Dan Heng said, brushing off his pants.

“We're alright, but we're trying to find Himeko!” March sounds worried.

“I'll find Himeko. You three go to the main car and help Pom-Pom if they ask.”

The three of them run off past Welt. Welt walks to the car's window and just stares out.

“Is that-”

A roar from something comes from his left. Welt snaps out of his trance and runs towards the noise. As the roars get louder, he sees something he wouldn't expect to find in this alternate universe…

Honkai beasts, three of them to be exact. All of them he was all too familiar with, all he remembered by name. 

One Chariot and two Archangels. He thought, getting ready to fight, to protect the Express from the plague of these monsters, until a red-haired woman caught his attention. 

This wasn't the normal Himeko he was used to by now. She had shed her briefcase-saw and was now using a long flat piece of sharp metal that had fallen off the Express with all the crashing, Welt was stunned. He couldn't believe what he saw. Tears started to form as this Himeko fought to protect herself.

She looks so much like Murata Himeko.

After a few moments, he shook himself mentally. He couldn't be standing here with Honkai beasts on board the Express. Striding up beside Himeko with purpose and one sweep of his cane, the beasts disappeared.

—

“Himeko!” The three Nameless yelled as she and Welt entered the main car. 

Himeko dropped the piece of metal she was still carrying and hugged two of them as they ran up to her, Dan Heng, and Sunday staying back.

“Himeko, you had us worried!” March cries, tears falling down her face.

“Don't leave us, Himeko.” Caelus quietly says.

“Oh, March, Caelus, you don't have to worry about me disappearing.” Himeko soothes.

Once she was done comforting them, Himeko turned to Welt. “What were those things? You seemed to know an awful lot, like their weak points.”

“I..” Welt doesn't know what to say. He doesn't want to say much in case Himeko, knowing she died in his universe, causes a rift. He doesn't even really remember how he got into this universe in the first place. All he remembered was exploring space, in his universe, and waking up on the Astral Express.

“I..” Welt tries again. He might as well come clean. “I'm what you could consider an alien.” This really wasn't how he intended to start off. “I'm from an alternative universe or timeline, something.” Welt chuckles. “Back where I'm from, I work with Valkyries, people with powers or abilities that fight against the Honkai beasts and other creatures. That's what those were, Himeko, Honkai beasts.

“I used to wield a Herrsher core, the core of reason, or the first Herrsher core. These cores are what make normal people gain more power and essentially turn you into a God. You, trailblazer, Caelus, have something inside you that is very similar to a core.” 

Caelus touches his chest where his heart would be as Welt continues. “I used to work as a teacher at St. Freya High School, a place for teaching and training low rank Valkyries. Then, I became a storyboard artist and ended up taking care of my son, Joey. I helped out on a space expedition and ended up where you found me in space, Himeko.

“I knew a lot of people that look like the ones we've met. Sushang, or as I knew her Li Sushang, Bronya and Seele, and that Stellaron Hunter looks awfully similar to Bonnie or a Broyna from a bubble world;

“This cane isn't even from this universe. It's from my own. It used to be a weapon called the Star of Eden. It was a big gun that allowed the user to manipulate gravity.” Welt stopped and took a breath. He needn't talk about the other Himeko, his Himeko.

Every Nameless looked at him, speechless. There was silence for a long while until Dan Heng spoke up.

“Mister Yang, thank you for telling us, but that doesn't change the fact you're one of us, a Nameless.”

“Yeah! Mister Yang, you're one of us now. Nothing can change that!” March grinned.

“Thank you, March 7th, Dan Heng, I appreciate it.”

Before Welt could continue, Pom-Pom came running up to Hineko. “Himeko! We're off course! And I don't know where we are!”

“Pom-Pom calm down. Bring me the map, and I'll figure it out.” Himeko takes command. “Everyone else, find a seat and stay calm. If we meet any more of these creatures, we'll need all hands on deck.” 

“Yes, Himeko!” The three Nameless say obediently. March hurries Caelus and Dan Heng towards the couches. Sunday slowly follows them.

Welt makes his way towards the opposite couches, looking out the window. Slowly thinking back to his universe.

“Himeko! I've got the map!” Pom-Pom yelled, waddling as fast as they could.

“Pom-Pom, there really isn't a need to run. I'm sure it's not as bad as the beautiful knight fiasco.” Himeko takes the map from Pom-Pom. “Hmm.. Seems you were right, Pom-Pom, we're nowhere I recognize. Eight planets and a sun, I wonder what solar system this is.” She starts analyzing the planets, searching for life. “No, no, no.. Ah. There's three of them, Mars, the Moon, and Earth.” 

Welt turns at that. “Earth?”

Himeko nods. “Yes, Earth. It seems those two planets and the moon are the only ones that are inhabited.” She enlarges the map onto Earth. “It seems we can land here.” She points to a marker. It's labeled Anti-Entropy.

Welt's face lights up. Anti-Entropy? He knew people there.

Himeko notices Welt and smiles. “We can stop there. Pom-Pom set course.”

“Yes, of course, Himeko!” Pom-Pom does a salute and hurries off.

—

The ride to the planet called Earth was somewhat smooth, only getting interrupted by a computer voice sounding from the loudspeakers:

“Transmission incoming, location Earth, user 1 ID: Einstein, user 2 ID: Tesla.”

Welt looks up at the screen while the other trailblazers gather around.

Himeko crosses her arms as she speaks, “Open transmissions.”

The screen lights up, and then two women show up, one with red hair and pig tails and another with blue hair.

“Hello!” The red-haired woman says, “I'm Tesla, and this is Einstein! We're from the Anti-Entropy. Please state why you'd like to enter the planet.”

Himeko waves her hand to open the coms for the transmission. “I am Himeko, navigator for the Astral Express.”

In a flash of confusion and grief, Tesla looks to Einstein then back to the screen. “Is there anyone else with you?”

Himeko continues, her own confusion growing. “I'm joined by our conductor, Pom-Pom, guard and archivist, Dan Heng, and four of our crew members, Sunday, March 7th, Caelus, and Welt.”

Tesla's eyes go wide, and she turns to Einstein. Her hush words barely make it through the speaker, “Welt? The one we know?”

Einstein replies to Tesla in the same hushed tone, “If it is.. Kiana isn't here, Bronya can't see them, and Mei is off the grid.”

“I think we should allow them access. Kiana can be called down, plus Griseo has come back, and she'll want to meet them.”

“Alright. Allow them through.”

Tesla turns back to the screen. “Alright, Astral Express members, we will let you onto Earth. We ask you to use our landing dock for the spaceships. Thank you, we'll see you soon~” She waves as the screen winks back to the window.

Himeko quietly plots a navigation chart for Pom-Pom. Then she nods to Pom-Pom, followed by them waddling off.

Soon, the loudspeaker sounds, “All people of the Astral Express, find a seat and hold on! We're going to Earth!”

Chapter Text

Welt wasn't sure if he should be nervous or excited. This would be the first time in almost two years that he’d be back on his home planet. He had many adventures with the Astral Express members. Going back to Earth felt like a dream.

“Welt? Welt..?” Himeko holds his shoulder firmly, gently shaking him. “We’re almost there. Don’t let your mind wander. We’ll need your expertise.”

Welt blinks multiple times before looking Himeko in the eyes. “I understand. Who’s going to stay here?”

Himeko sits next to him on the couch. “I’d like to bring everyone. The Express won’t be in any danger. Of course, anyone can stay here, I think it would be nice for at least our three trouble makers and Sunday comes with.”

“Those three would definitely be helpful, and Sunday would be good to have. He needs more experience.”

“That’s settled then. Black Swan and Pom-Pom can decide to do what they’d like.”

Just as Himeko stopped speaking, the speakers came alive, and Pom-Pom’s voice could be heard, “All passengers of the Express we will be landing soon, please stay seated while we do so. Thank you.”

—

“Passengers we have landed, you can safely get up and exit when you’d like” Pom-Pom spoke.

Himeko gets up and walks over to the three trouble makers of the Express. “March, Dan Heng, Caelus, we’d like you to come with Welt and I. Grab what you three need.”

“Yes, Himeko!” March shouts, grabbing Caelus’ and Dan Heng's hands, dragging them off in the direction of their rooms.

“Welt, I'm going to go find Sunday and Black Swan, I'll be back.” Himeko says to Welt, walking towards where the others went.

Black Swan sat almost expectantly, her purple eyes giving an all-knowing stare. “I suppose you're here to ask us if you'd like us to join you? I can't speak for our friend from Penacony, but I would like to stay here. Exploring would be nice, but I sense my presence would knock things out of place.”

Himeko nods. “Sunday, as much as I want to give you a choice, I think it would be good if you joined us.” 

Sunday nods. “Yes, Himeko. I think it'll be interesting to note where Welt came from.”

“Good, the others should be done. Let's get back to the main car and talk to Pom-Pom.” Hineko leads Sunday off. 

—

“Sunny! I'm glad you could join us!” March excitedly waves while smiling at him. “We’re almost ready, Caelus needed some assistance from Dan Heng.”

“I did not.” Caelus spoke from the doorway, Dan Heng behind him. “I just simply needed him to grab my things.”

March looks annoyed as she rolls her eyes, “Cal, you almost never wear anything other than that outfit. Why would you need Dan Heng other than to gain his validation?”

A smile plays on Dan Heng’s lips, “March, let Cal do what he’d like, I don’t mind playing along with his antics.”

March huffs, crossing her arms tightly, “Fine.”

Himeko laughs, “March, Caelus and Dan Heng are welcome to do whatever they’d like. They are mostly grown adults, after all.” 

“I know, Himeko.. They just don’t act like it sometimes.”

“I’m technically two.” Caelus jokingly says.

“We know you are.” Sunday retorts. “You act two.”

Caelus wraps his arm around Sunday’s shoulders. “Come on, Sunny, play nice, I'm just messing around.”

Sunday moves out of Caelus’ grasp. “This isn't the time.”

Welt and Pom-Pom join the group as Caelus and Sunday start arguing.

“Enough, you two.” Welt says with authority.

The two stop bickering but continue to glare at each other.

Welt sighs before speaking again. “Our conductor, Pom-Pom, has agreed to come with us. They think Black Swan is capable of taking care of things here.”

Pom-Pom fixes their conductor hat as they speak, “I'm excited to join you! The people of Earth were nice enough to let us land somewhere safe, and I trust Black Swan, I don't think our Express has anything to worry about!”

Himeko claps her hands together. “Then let's get this trailblazing mission started.”

—

Welt led them off the Express and onto the hanger for spaceships, and apparently an Express. 

Both Tesla and Einstein wait there for them, their mouths agasp at the two people they thought they'd never see again.

“Tesla, Einstein, how are you two?” Welt greets.

Tesla shakes herself out of her shock, going over to Welt and kicking him. “Do you have any idea how worried we were?!” She screams almost at the top of her lungs. “You went on that space mission and.. and disappeared! You left everyone! Joey, Kiana, Bronya, us!”

Einstein finally comes over and pulls Tesla away from the group. “Welcome back, Welt. Everything is fine here. We kept it just as it was.” 

“That's good to know. I see Tesla is as feisty as ever.” 

“She is.” Einstein lets Tesla go. “Sorry, for that. I'm Lieserl Albert Einstein, and this is Frederica Nikola Tesla, we are scientists working at Anti-Entropy.”

Tesla crosses her arms and glares at Welt.

Welt smiles at them. “I guess we should introduce ourselves again. Would our conductor like to do the honors?”

A squeak sounds behind the group as Pom-Pom slowly works his way to the front of them. “I.. I.. I'm Pom-Pom, the conductor of the Astral Express!” Pom-Pom is talking very fast now. “This is Himeko, our navigator, –Himeko wakes to them– and these are five of our crew members, Welt, Dan Heng, March 7th, Caelus, and Sunday.”

“Nice to meet you all. You can follow me and I can show you all to your rooms.” Einstein grabs Tesla by the wrist and drags her away, the Express members following them.

“How are Kiana and the others?” Welt asks, as Einstein leads them down a hall.

“Everyone has been well. We've gotten a few visits from them and their friends. Kiana ended up contacting us after she saw your train near the moon. She's planning on visiting in a few days.” Einstein says.

Einstein soon stops at two doors, one on each side. “This one is for boys, –She points at the door on her right– this one is for girls. –She points to the door on her left– Welt, your room is still intact, and we've agreed on letting this Himeko use her room.”

“Get your stuff put away. We'll show Himeko and Welt to their rooms. When you're done just follow this hall to the command room, don't touch anything.” Tesla says.

March can be heard saying, “Pom-Pom looks like you'll room with me! Let Cal, Sunny and Dan Heng be together.” as they walk away.

Chapter Text

Welt had walked into his room. Some old, same old. It looked like he hadn't left at all. Tesla's ‘We left it the same’ echoed in his mind. He set his stuff down and picked up a photo of Him, Himeko, and the three Valkyries.

—

Himeko followed Tesla and Einstein, carrying nothing but her briefcase-saw. Everywhere she looked seemed to feel like deja vu. She stopped in front of a painting on the wall, a beautiful red-haired woman staring back at her. ‘This is..’ She reached out and stroked the painting, almost expecting to feel something other than canvas. ‘This is me..’

Himeko's whole body screamed. What was this feeling? She felt like something inside her snapped, and soon tears raced down her face. She was staring up into her own face, but why? Why did this feel so surreal?

“Himeko? Himeko?” Tesla's calls finally broke her from her trance.

Himeko wipes her eyes. “You said my name?”

“We're almost there. Are you alright? I know that painting can be a lot but we wanted to make a memorial for our friend.”

“I'm fine, just a little shaken. I never expected to see someone who looked like me here.”

“She was a lovely woman, but she unfortunately passed away, I'm sure she would have loved you.” 

“I'm sorry for your loss.” Himeko respectfully says.

“Don't worry about it.” Tesla waves her off. “She died many years ago.” Himeko nods, and they start off again. It's not long before Tesla and Einstein stop in front of a door. “Feel free to use the clothes and whatever is in the room. Our red-haired friend wouldn't mind. And whenever you're ready, just follow this hall and take a right.” Tesla smiles at Himeko, taking Einstein with her as she leaves. 

Himeko took a deep breath and let it out. It felt weird entering another's room, but she did it anyway. The room left her feeling nostalgic and longing, nothing that she could remember from her memories connected to those feelings. She looked around for a bit, stopping to pick up a photo of a red-haired woman and three others.

Himeko stroked the frame of the photo. “Kiana, Mei and Bronya..” It felt weird knowing those names. Maybe she deduced that the gray-haired girl was Bronya from what Welt said, but what about the other two? She felt a sadness wash over her. 

Looking at this photo just made her confused. Himeko set down the photo and continued to the wardrobe, setting her briefcase-saw on the ground. She started looking through the clothes, with every touch and look it seemed to bring back a memory, ones that weren't hers. She felt overwhelmed.

Himeko took deep breaths as she comprehended what was going on. Who's memories she was remembering. Why was she remembering them now? She sighed. There wasn't much she could do now, and a shower sounded nice. 

Himeko picked out a red dress with a thigh slit, something close to her usual clothes but something new. She lied it down on the bed and then went to the bathroom to take a shower. The scent of the shampoo and bodywash made her continue to wrack her brain, but she came up empty-handed, with no memories, only fragments of something. 

Finished in the shower, Himeko put on the dress and fixed her hair with the things at the small vanity that sat in the room. With her hair fixed and out of the way, she heads out to where Tesla had stated; ‘Down the hall and to the right.’

When Himeko came into the room, the rest of the Express members were already there with a new woman. She had blue hair and a white outfit, and astral looking accents adorned her. Caelus had already started talking his head off to her about his magical feathered pen while she showed him her fountain pen and a paintbrush.

Einstein gestured to Himeko, making Welt and Tesla stare at her. Himeko paid no mind as she watched Sunday and Dan Heng look through the books that lined the walls, March and Pom-Pom looking at photos of Earth through a hologram on the table in the center of the room.

Welt walked over to Himeko with an unknown look on his face. “Himeko, you look wonderful. I'd introduce you to our friend, but Caelus seems to be occupying her time.” 

“It's fine.” Himeko smiled at him. “I didn't know your red-haired friend was so much like me. It feels..” She touched where her heart would be. “Like I know her.”

Welt frowns in a confused way. “That's interesting.. Just tell someone if you end up remembering memories you've never experienced.”

“Actually I have..” Himeko starts before the blue-haired girl notices her and runs to hug her. 

“Himeko!” The blue-haired girl hugs Himeko tightly.

‘Uh.. Hello.” Himeko slowly hugs the girl back.

“Himeko, how I've missed you! I never thought I'd see you again, I still had hope that even after your second death, I knew you'd come back.”

Himeko swallows hard. Did she hear that correctly? ‘Second death?’ She had died twice?

The girl lets Himeko go after a few minutes. She steps away and bows respectfully. “I am Griseo. I should have properly introduced myself before hugging you.”

Himeko waves her off. “Don't worry about it. I don't mind, I enjoyed your hug.”

“Thank you.” Griseo smiles happily.

Tesla clears her throat, “Kiana got into contact with us again. She told us she'd convince Bronya and drag Mei back to join us. She also said she'd bring a little someone with her.”

Welt chuckles. “She doesn't need to stress about bringing the others. And make sure Adam knows where Joey is.”

“Kiana.. She's bringing him, too.”

“That'll be a surprise. Adam is a good man. He'll behave. Any idea when they'll be here?”

“Kiana still said a few days. She's a Herrsher, not a miracle.”

“Herrsher?” Dan Heng asks.

“Enforcers. Minor gods.” Einstein replies. “They are the ones that help make our world safe from Honkai. Kiana would probably be the strongest.”

Tesla rolls her eyes. “Seele is pretty strong.”

“Tesla! Einstein! Please, no fighting! And are we really power scaling our friends?” Welt mediates.

Himeko smiles, placing a hand on Welt's shoulder. “Let them be.”

Welt sighs. “Yes, Himeko.”

“Himeko!” March calls Himeko over, pulling her attention from Welt. “Come take a look at this. There's some beautiful places on this planet!”

Himeko drifts towards where March and Pom-Pom were. She stood there, taking in memories that were associated with the scenes she saw. Tears started to form in her eyes, but she just blinked those away, keeping her composure.

“Himeko, Pom-Pom wants to go see flowers! March said she'd bring Pom-Pom, but she wanted to see if you wanted to come too!” Pom-Pom stated. They now wore a sundress and a small sun hat, obviously handmade by March.

Himeko smiles. “I'd love to, Pom-Pom and March.”

“We should do that tomorrow so we can wake up early and see the sunrise too! The sun is setting soon, and I kind of wanted to explore around this place!” March says excitedly.

Himeko continues to smile. “I think that would be an excellent idea.”

“I'll stay here, Himeko.” Dan Heng and Sunday say almost simultaneously. They look up from their books and glare at each other for a moment.

Himeko laughs, “Alright, you two. March, Pom-Pom and I can go explore. Caelus and Welt, what do you two want to do?”

“I'm going to catch up with these two and make some dinner.” Welt gestures at Tesla and Einstein.

Caelus thinks for a moment. “I think I'll come with you.”

Griseo speaks up, “Himeko, would it be alright if I joined you for an exploring mission?”

“Of course. You're welcome to join us at any time, Griseo. we're no strangers to meeting new people.” Himeko smiles at her.

The Astral Express members split off from one another and did what they wanted to do. Welt went off to talk to his friends, Dan Heng, and Sunday kept their heads stuffed in books, and Himeko, March, Caelus, and Pom-Pom with Griseo went off to explore around.

They ended up meeting back up to have dinner and then went to their rooms to settle down for the night, Griseo joining March and Pom-Pom in the girls’ room.

Chapter Text

March rose early, and Pom-Pom and Griseo still sound asleep. She got up, dressed herself, brushed her hair, and headed towards the kitchen. At dinner, it was stated that they were allowed anything there.

March looked around for a few minutes before finding a bowl and cereal. Pouring the cereal, then milk, putting everything away, then sitting down to eat.

There was a familiar shuffle of feet as Sunday joined her. Sunday said nothing as he grabbed the things to make himself a bowl of cereal, seemingly knowing where everything was already.

March swallowed the spoonful of cereal hard. “Good morning, Sunny!” She said in her normal cheery tone.

Sunday didn't look up, his ear wings folded over his mouth. “Morning.”

March had always wondered why Sunday hid his mouth as he ate. Maybe it was an old habit, or he just didn't like being watched, no matter what, she accepted him.

“Good morning, you two.” Himeko's voice sounded cheery as she walked in and started making coffee.

“Good morning!” March said, echoed by Sunday.

Himeko sat down with them, waiting for her drink. “How did you two sleep?”

“Fine.” Sunday’s voice was muffled by his feathers.

“Good!” March beamed. “The bed wasn't the most comfortable, but it was still nice. How did you sleep, Himeko?”

“Well enough.” Himeko sighs. “Ever since we came here, I've been feeling nostalgic. Everything makes me feel like I've been here before. And the room they're letting me stay in.. It's filled with things tailored to my taste, the woman it belonged to, their ‘friend’, was me. She looks like me. I remember things. I..” She trails off.

“Himeko, I can help you suppress those memories if you'd like.” Sunday offers.

“I'm fine.. I'd just like to figure out these memories. I want to know who my past life was.”

“From what the others said, she was a wonderful woman.” March chimes in.

“It would seem that way.” Himeko smiles at her. The beep of the coffee maker sounds, and she gets up to get her coffee. “Sunday, were the boys up yet?”

Sunday sighs. “They weren't, but Caelus somehow found his way into Dan Hang's bed.” 

“That seems normal for them now, Caelus feels responsible for almost losing Dan Heng multiple times in our travels.”

“I know.”

March claps her hands together. “Himeko, what does your room look like?”

“Unsurprisingly it looks like mine on the Astral Express. Of course, this room has different clothes and photos, but the resemblance is uncanny.” Himeko sits down again. “What do both of yours look like?”

“Mine is the normal dorm looking room, bunk beds, and a few dressers.” March says.

“Same here.” Sunday agrees.

“Interesting.” Himeko says before taking a sip of her coffee.

“I think I'm going to look at the library, I'll see you two later.” And with that, he gets up and washes his bowl and spoon before leaving.

Himeko and March exchange glances and start laughing after he leaves. Caelus and Dan Heng join them soon after.

Caelus had his arm wrapped around Dan Heng's, Dan Heng, looked more annoyed by the minute. “Caelus, stop, I'd like to try and get something to eat. I'll make you some food if you just sit down and behave.”

“Yes, Dan Heng..” Caelus sits at the counter next to March, looking like he just got kicked.

Himeko smiles softly. “Good morning, you two.”

“Good morning, Himeko and March.” Dan Heng says from the stove.

“Morning.” Caelus responds.

“How did you both sleep?”

“Fine.” Caelus says quietly.

“Warm.” Dan Heng says.

After that exchange, Griseo came in carrying Pom-Pom in her arms, a smile on her face. Pom-Pom looked bewildered at the fact they were being carried. Griseo set Pom-Pom in a chair and went off to cook breakfast.

“Good morning!” Pom-Pom sounds cheery. “Pom-Pom slept well!”

“That's good, Pom-Pom.” Himeko answers.

Dan Heng comes over with two plates and sits beside Caelus, giving him the second plate. Griseo finishes what she cooked and gave some to Pom-Pom. They ate with very few words exchanged.

—

Griseo led March, Himeko, and Pom-Pom down a dirt path, both sides covered in foliage. Tall trees stood strong on both sides of them, nothing like the Express members have seen before. The three of them were in awe.

“What was Cal going to do while we were gone?” March asked.

“I think Welt said something about a training simulation.” Himeko replied.

“That sounds right up Cal's alley. Pom-Pom, how do you like your outfit?”

Pom-Pom doesn't say anything for a moment. “Pom-Pom thinks it's nice, thank you, March!”

March smiles. “You're welcome, Pom-Pom!”

Griseo stops before a bunch of flowery vines, turning to them with a smile. “I'm not sure if this is the place from those pictures you saw, March, but this is a beautiful place.” She holds aside the curtain of vines. “After you.”

March was the first to step onto the field of flowers. She could see all different types of flowers, and those flowers were different hues. She started down a path carved into the flowers. She was in awe.

Himeko and Pom-Pom were in the same kind of awe. They both followed March, but were slow to do so, taking in the scenery.

March continued down the path, making her way further and further away from the group. At one point, turning around and not seeing them at all, she figured they'd catch up at some point.

Further down the path, March stumbled across two girls sitting under a tree conversing with each other.

One of the girls noticed March and waved her over, “Come sit with us!” The girl beside her didn't look pleased with the other girl's invention.

March joined them, sitting down close to them. One of the girls looked familiar, but she couldn't place her finger on where she had seen her before.

“Hello. You seem a little lost. Are you looking for someone?” The girl dressed in purple asked.

“Just a little.” March answered. She felt nervous, almost as if someone was watching over her. “My friends should be catching up soon.”

“That's alright. Just sit and hang out with us until they show up.”

The red clothed girl spoke up, and her tone wasn't kind. “Don't forget to introduce yourself.”

“Ah, yes! I'm Seele!” The girl in purple said, clapping her hands together happily. “And this is Veliona, but you can call her Vel.”

Veliona glared at Seele. “I told you not to call me that,” She turned to March. “And you may never call me that.”

Seele laughs. “She's just being silly, don't mind her. So what's your name?”

“I'm March 7th, but March is fine.” March smiled at her.

“March 7th..” Seele smiles at her. “You seem familiar.”

“I don't get that a lot.” March smiled back.

“Maybe you've never met the right person to make them say that.” Seele places her hands in her lap. “But I might be the wrong person to say that, Miss March, after all you just met me. I could be the worst person you have ever met.”

Veliona scoffs, “Don't you ever sell yourself short, Seele. You are the nicest person I've met.”

“Vel, I'm not worried about that.” Seele pats her hand.

Veliona rolls her eyes and goes back to staring off into the field.

Seele turns to March. “I heard some of my friends were back, so I came back to see them.”

“Your friends?” March asked.

“Yes! Kiana and Mei, Welt and my beloved Bronya. I miss her.”

“Wait, you know Mister Yang?”

“Why wouldn't I? He used to be my teacher at Saint Freya. And judging from that reaction, you know Welt, too?”

“I do! Mister Yang is a part of the Astral Express Crew like I am! Then we've got our conductor, Pom-Pom, our navigator, Himeko, our archivist, Dan Heng, and Sunny and Cal.”

Seele looks down, tears forming in her eyes, blinking them away rapidly.

“Um..” March isn't sure what upset her. “Are you okay, Miss Seele?”

“I'm fine, I'm fin-” Seele starts, looking up only to see a red-haired woman walking towards them. Himeko's name fell from her lips, almost like a prayer.

Himeko looks at Seele, her eyes filling with recognition. They looked at each other for what seemed like minutes until Seele got up and walked over to Himeko. 

Seele put out her hands, and Himeko took them. Seele put on a big smile as she spoke, “Be it rebirth or fate, it has brought you back. Miss Himeko, I am grateful to see you again. It has been so long.” With that, Seele put her head down.

Himeko smiled, tears dripping off her face, her hands squeezing Seele's a little tighter. “Seele, if it was truly rebirth or fate, it is an honor to meet you for the first time or again. My memories of you are beautiful.”

“Thank you.” Seele raises her head, her eyes filled with tears.

Himeko gently wipes away her tears and takes her into an embrace. “It's alright, Seele.”

Himeko and Seele stay like that for a bit before they move away from each other. March and Seele stay and talk for a bit while the other three walk off to explore more, only later does the others come back for March. Seele goes with them.

Chapter Text

Sunday woke to a sliver of sunlight peeking through the blinds onto his face. He had fallen asleep at a table in the library surrounded by books of all sizes, his face pressed into his arms and ear wings straight out.

Getting up, Sunday, fixed his clothes and went to get breakfast. No one being up while he ate was a nice change, constantly getting bombarded by words. The silence was nice. Once done with breakfast, he snuck back to the library. He had just been researching who Kevin Kaslana was, his rampage on everything, and everyone made him interested in learning more.

Books were more his style, but this building was mainly run by electronics, so carefully Sunday navigated his way through a tablet to find more information on the name ‘Kaslana’. It took less than a second for the names of the thirteen Flame-Chasers to pop up with their names, status’ and images. The ones of note are as listed; 

• Kevin Kaslana: Deceased. 
• Elysia: Deceased. 

• Kalpas: Deceased. 

• Griseo: Alive.

Griseo, we have already met her. She was the woman that is being a guide to March and the others. Elysia looks like March. Kalpas looks like that stupid raccoon Caelus. But what surprised him even more was the fact that Himeko's name kept popping up. Search after search, her name was always there, no matter what. Her old self must have been involved a lot more than I originally thought. He thought.

He sat there for a bit, staring at the screen. Murata Himeko was.. a legend. Sunday knew the Himeko he knew was good, but Murata Hineko was.. No, he wouldn't say ‘better’ but she was different.

Sunday spent hours searching and searching through anything he could get his hands on, trying to find more knowledge. That was until he decided to try connecting with the harmony to find new sources in this universe or part of the universe (he still wasn't quite sure if they were still in the same universe at this time). Sitting cross-legged on the floor, he closed his eyes and began to use the powers of Harmony to help him connect with the ethereal planes of this world.

The meditation worked. When he opened his eyes, he was met face to face with a version of himself. It was an exact mirror if he had to say so, especially after what Wonweek pulled.

“Hello.” The other Sunday spoke. It didn't sound like him, but it almost sounded familiar. “My friend.”

“You are?” Sunday countered.

“I am.. you.” The other Sunday shifted into Robin. “Your sister, Robin.” And with a flourish of ‘Robin's’ waist and ear wings, the person now standing in front of him was a tall white-haired girl, wearing a white and purple outfit with flower motifs.

“An Aeon..” Sunday gasped. His mind was racing. Which Aeon followed them here? Was it Aha? It had to be Aha. That would be something THEY'D do.

With a bow, the person in front of him bowed. “I am the Cocoon of Finality, but please feel free to call me ‘Him’.”

“You're not an Aeon?”

“No.” The Cocoon replied. Its hand went to its chin as it thought. “I do remember an Aeon by the name of Aha that came with a silly girl. What was her name..? Sprinkle?”

“Sparkle.” Sunday spoke with malice.

The Cocoon ignored his tone, continuing on, “She was harassing the people of the quantum sea.” After a moment's pause, it continued on, “Anyway, you, Sunday, come with me and let yourself be filled with the knowledge of this world.” It held out its hand to him.

Hesitantly, Sunday took The Cocoon's hand, a wave of cold then warmth flooded his body starting from where The Cocoon held his hand. The face of the body it held twisted into a grin, not one of malice nor one of benevolence. Slowly, the figure started to disappear in front of his eyes, replaced by only the knowledge it gave and the words it spoke.

When Sunday came to, he rapidly blinked, clearing the waves of Harmony that accompanied his use of that power. His mind was clearer than it had been since he got there. He knew why they were there; it wasn't just Welt wanting to see his friends and family again or the universe pulling Himeko back to her past, although he knew that he would have to be the one to seal them away if it came to that. No, their adventure on Earth was about to end, but not before they met a crucial person to their adventures.

Chapter Text

“Come on, guys!” A white-haired woman hurried her three other companions to the common room. “Okay, okay. It has been forever since we saw Welt, so let's decorate a bit for a small party!” The woman, the other three, and a small white snake started decorating as quietly they could. Tesla and Einstein walk into the common room, surprised at the four's appearance.

“Suprise! We're back!” The white-haired woman smiles at them. “We want to make a small party for Welt. We'll keep quiet.”

Tesla smiles. “We're going to make breakfast. We'll be back in a bit. Don't break anything.” Tesla takes Einstein's arm and leads her to the kitchen.

The white-haired woman laughs. “We won't! Come on, Rice Cake, you be the lookout. Make sure no one comes in.”

“Aye, aye!” Rice Cake squeaks as it zooms off to patrol the halls.

 —

March wakes and gets dressed. Quietly, she made her way out of the room so as not to wake the two women and the conductor. Walking down the hall towards Himeko's room, when something white catches her eye. It was fast, but she followed it to her best ability. Down the halls and to the common room, hiding behind the doorframe she watched as the white thing that she could now see was a snake, go to a white-haired woman and hurriedly converse with her.

“It's okay, Rice Cake. As long as it isn't Welt, we're good.” The white-haired woman turns towards the door. “You can come out. We aren't going to hurt you.”

March slowly stepped into the room. “Hello, I'm March 7th, but March is fine.”

“Oh! You must be one of those Astral Express crew members that Tesla was talking about. I'm Kiana Kaslana, and over there is Mei, that is Bronya, that is Joey, and this little bundle of happiness is Rice Cake.” Kiana smiles at her, her smile filled with all kinds of joy. “You're welcome to stay here and have some breakfast, Tesla and Einstein made enough for everyone staying here, but they had to go out this morning. They won't be back until later.”

“I'll join you then!” March sat herself next to Mei, taking some food from the tray that was sat in the middle of the table.

Mei smiled at the girl who sat next to her. “It's very nice to meet you, March. I'm Raiden Mei but you already know that.. You remind me of an old friend, she would have liked you.”

March swallowed the bite she had taken. “How many of your friends have died? We found out that you guys had a Himeko at some point.”

“Well, we had a lot of friends over the years, and most of them didn't make it. There's too many to count, but we will remember their sacrifices.” Mei gently strokes March's hair. “But don't worry, we hopefully won't have anymore, Elysia sacrificed herself, and Kiana won't let anymore casualties happen.”

March nods, going back to eating. Sunday comes in, his hair and clothing a mess, the feathers on his ear wings messed up. He plops down across from March, paying no mind to the others that were there, as he grabs some food and starts eating his wings fixed over his mouth in his usual way.

“Did you sleep in the library again, Sunny?” March asked.

“I did.” Sunday slowly answered. “Caelus and Dan Heng make it hard to sleep, plus I found more information that I wanted to read.”

“Has Cal been having nightmares again?”

“Something like that. I wake to hear Dan Heng comforting Caelus. I've offered to use the harmony to help him, but he refuses.”

“Sounds like something Cal would do.” March sighs. “I hope it doesn't continue, I feel bad for him.”

Sunday nods in agreement. Dan Heng and Caelus soon join them. Caelus leans into Dan Heng. Dan Heng's tail firmly around his waist. “Cal, you need to eat something. You'll feel better.”

“Okay..” Caelus begins eating what Dan Heng gave him.

The gray-haired woman speaks up. “Hello you three. I'm-”

Dan Heng looks up at her. “Bronya. We've met you.. Well, a counterpart of yours before.”

“Interesting. But I am Bronya, this is Kiana, Mei, Joey and Rice Cake. We welcome you to Earth Astral Express crew, we do apologize that we couldn't be here earlier.” Bronya speaks curtly.

As silent as a butterfly, Seele glided past Kiana, who stood by the door. She gently set her hand on Bronya's shoulder and trailed her hand down her arm. When Bronya looked up at Seele, her eyes lit up with recognition, a smile tugging at her lips. “It's been a while, my love.” Seele greeted with a gentle kiss on Bronya's forehead.

“So it has.” Bronya slowly took Seele's hand as if she was scared that this butterfly would flit away at the slightest of movement. “I missed you.”

Seele cupped Bronya's cheek, her touch as light as a butterfly's. She leaned in for a kiss. She lingered for a few moments before pulling away. March and the others stared, never had the Belobog versions of these two kissed or made any attempt to be romantic.

Seele smiled at the group before sitting next to Bronya. “Don't mind us.”

Kiana and the other two's faces paled at the sight of the red-haired woman that walked into the room. Her hair, the usual curls that framed her face, dressed in her normal white flower motif dress, a coffee cup in her hand. “Good morning, March, Caelus, Dan Heng, Sunday, and Seele.” Himeko strode over to where the group was sitting and set her coffee cup on the table. She stood back up and smiled at Kiana and the others. “Good morning to you too, Kiana, Mei, and Bronya.”

Himeko had named the three of them by name. Her voice, her hair, her smile. All the same, the only thing that was different was her. 

Kiana was the first to break, tears ran down her face, and her smile faded a bit but remained. “Aunt Himeko..” Without hesitation, she ran over and hugged Himeko, now sobbing.

Himeko hugged her back, her hand gently stroking Kiana's head. “It's okay, I'm here. Don't you worry.” Mei and Bronya came over to join in hugging Himeko, tears running down their faces. Himeko's soft voice still speaks reassuringly, “I've missed you girls. I'm here for you now.”

“Aunt Himeko, we've missed you. After losing you, it was hard, but the three of us powered on and worked it out. We knew you were always with us in spirit.” Kiana said quietly.

“I know you three missed me. But I'm here now.” Himeko's voice broke, and tears now fell off her face.

What felt like forever passed before the three of them stepped away and wiped at their tears. “How are you here? You died. We all saw you sacrifice yourself.” Mei stated.

“I can't tell you how I am Himeko or why my parents named me that, but I found the Astral Express abandoned, fixed it, then started traveling the universe.” Himeko sat, drank some coffee, then motioned for the others to sit. “When I found Welt, it was out in space, same with March 7th. Dan Heng joined us soon after when he was on the run. Caelus and Sunday joined us later under other circumstances, Pom-Pom has always been there, I'm not sure when I picked them up.” Like a cue, Pom-Pom joined them, sitting next to Himeko. “I've been to many planets by myself or with others, and I've come to love these crew members like my own family because they are. Now, as for how I remember you three. Some were put together with deductive reasoning, as we met a Bronya and Seele before, even a Mei, although she told us she was named Acheron.. 

“But ever since we came here, I've been remembering memories that weren't mine, fragments of what I assume are your Himeko's memories. I've relived all her memories or most of them at least. With Sunday’s help yesterday, I was able to sift through the memories and learn them more easily. We only found the memories of your Himeko's, I can not access the past era's memories from what Sunday deduced because Welt suppressed them before. I apologize if I am not the Himeko of your memories.”

“Don't apologize.” Bronya spoke. “Himeko, we don't care what version of you is here. What we care about is that you're here.”

“Yeah! It's amazing that we even get to see you again, to know that you exist even outside Earth feels so beautiful.” Kiana shouts.

“Calm down, Kiana. I don't think this Himeko is going anywhere right now.” Mei patted Kiana's back.

“That's right. We've still got to figure out how to get back to our side of the universe before we leave.” Himeko said.

They converse for a long while before Welt walks in, and Kiana jumps up and yells, "Surprise!"

Welt chuckles. “This is a nice surprise, Kiana. It's nice to see you three again.” He makes his way towards the group, only getting interrupted by a boy that looked to be about fourteen.

“Dad!” The boy yelled as he hugged Welt around the middle.

“Joey..” Welt hugged him back. “I missed you, son.”

“I missed you too, but you left me! You said you'd be back in a few months. It's been years!”

“I know, but I had no way to contact you. I would have if I did.”

Joey sighs. “Okay..”

Welt leans down and kisses his head. “I'll tell you about my adventures if you behave.”

“Okay.”

Welt took Joey's hand and led him to sit with the others where Welt and the other Express members told the stories about their travels. 

Chapter Text

The rest of the week came and went. Welt, Tesla, and Einstein made a breakthrough on finding a way back to their side of the universe. They developed a small chip that added the Milky Way and the other surrounding galaxies to the express navigation system. Welt had told the Express Members they were ready to depart, and Himeko had looked over the navigation, figuring out where they needed to go. They had been there a week, but their time there was an adventure.

Welt had reunited with most everyone he knew and his son. He felt bad for leaving Joey again, but he promised to come visit again sometime because he now knew that this part of the universe was connected to the rest.

Himeko had learned all the memories from what others were calling ‘Current Era Himeko’. She felt horrible about learning what She had to go through but knew it was for the best, and she was glad that other Himeko was always with her. Unfortunately for the one they called ‘Last Era Himeko’, her memories were wiped. Welt suppressed Current Era Himeko's memories of her past life at the time, and now she couldn't access them. And Himeko was okay with that. She didn't need old memories to make new ones.

Dan Heng and Caelus were invited by Mei and Kiana to learn new fighting techniques. Mei had thought it would be fun to teach Dan Heng in a Herresher of Thunder style. Kiana was itching to teach someone how to ‘properly’ use a bat and taught Caelus just that.

Bronya taught Sunday new things, technology related but new things nonetheless. After his meeting with the Cocoon, he didn't need to send his whole being into research anymore (Kiana had stated that the Cocoon couldn't harm him and felt potential in him). He felt awkward around Seele, too, as she often joined Bronya's side in a rather flirtatious way, but Sunday powered on.

March had sat down with everyone but spent more time with Seele and her counterpart walking around outside, discovering new sights she had never seen before. 

Pom-Pom had been keeping an eye on everyone constantly hopping from one place to the next, watching over their friends.. their family. But ultimately, Pom-Pom sat with Griseo and watched her paint. It calmed Pom-Pom and helped them understand true emotion through art.

Everyone had done what they needed or wanted to do while they were there. That week had passed, and it was time to pack up and say their goodbyes. Everyone had come to see them off.

“Welt, be nice to Himeko. And please don't be a stranger.” Kiana said, hugging Welt.

“I won't.” Welt hugged her back.

Kiana smiled as she pulled away and went to hold Himeko's hands. “Himeko, while you aren't the one who taught me. I would still like to thank you. I hope you become the same teacher for your younger Express Crew Members, be it with or without our Himeko's memories. They are very lucky to have a woman like you.” 

“Thank you, Kiana.” Himeko's smile was filled with joy as she pulled Kiana into a hug. Then, after a bit, she pulled away and went to hug Mei and Bronya, then Seele and Griseo and even Joey. She went over and picked up her briefcase-saw, waved to the others, and walked into the Express.

Mei gently kisses March's head. “If you ever find out you're Elysia or someone related to her, feel free to come back here and ask for me. I'd be willing to help you learn more about her.” 

“I will, Miss Mei!” March smiled. “Thank you so much for being here, I know we didn't hang out much, but I know the time we did share was beautiful.” 

“It was an honor to meet you, March 7th.” Mei smiles at her as March turns and goes to talk to Seele. “Caelus and Dan Heng, thank you so much for humoring us with the training regime we set for you. It's been a while since Kiana or I trained someone, and we'd like to thank you for being wonderful students. I hope your travels are filled with amazing adventures.”

Kiana grins. “Whatever she said. I'm just kidding. It was fun to work with you both, but mainly Caelus, if you ever come back to Earth, just message me, I'll come back, and we can spar!” Mei shakes her head.

“We will, don't you worry! We'll all try and come back to visit sometime. Himeko has the coordinates now, so it'll be smooth sailing from wherever we are.” Caelus excitedly speaks out.

Dan Heng sighs. “Thank you, Kiana and Mei. I know this trash enthusiast can be a lot, but he's genuinely good at what he does. Thank you for expanding on that. Mei, thank you for training me. It's not always the easiest to use my Vidyadhara side as I've suppressed it over the years, but what you and Kurikara taught was a huge help.”

“We're happy to help.” Mei hugs Dan Heng, then Caelus, Kiana does the same.

Griseo came over carrying a painting. “Pom-Pom, I have a painting for you. Except I want you to open it on the Express, it's a gift for you and your family.”

“Thank you!” Pom-Pom squeaks. “Dan Heng, could you come carry this for me?”

“Yes, Pom-Pom.” Dan Heng comes over and takes the painting from Griseo.

“Make sure to open it when everyone is there and it has to be on the Express. Please, the magic will be ruined if you don't.”

“Pom-Pom will make sure they don't!”

Griseo smiles. “Thank you, Pom-Pom. It was nice to get to know you and just meet you in general. I can tell you keep this whole crew together, and make sure you continue to do that.” She bends down and hugs Pom-Pom, then stands. “It's time for me to go back to my own spaceship.” And with that, she walks off.

“Come on, you three! Let's go set that painting down and get ready for take off!” Pom-Pom shouts, leading Dan Heng and Caelus off into the Express, Welt staying behind, a shoebox held in his hands.

“Kiana and Joey, these are letters I've written on our travels for both of you. You'll have to sort through them, but they are labeled. I never forgot about you both, and I was hoping to give these to you one day, and that day is today. I hope you both forgive me for my disappearance and my leaving you both now.”

“Welt, it's alright. Adam, Carole, and Lyle have been taking care of Joey. Mei has been making sure of that.” Kiana states.

“Dad, Uncle Adam has been taking care of me. He's been a good guardian.” Joey says.

“That's good. Here.” Welt hands Joey the shoebox, then ruffles his hair. “I love you, Joey. Be good for Adam, okay?”

“I love you too! And I'll make sure to be good for Uncle.” Joey holds the shoebox tightly.

“Good.” Welt hugs Joey, then Kiana. “I'll make sure to send letters.” Bronya and Mei come over to give Welt a hug. They take Kiana and Joey into the building to read the letters.

“Welt.” Tesla crosses her arms. “How is the Star of Eden treating you?”

“It's been treating me well. It's been by my side since I was found out in space.”

“Good. Don't lose it.” Tesla kicked Welt in the shins. “That was for leaving us again. But take care, we'll miss you.”

Einstein grabs Tesla's arm and holds it tightly. “Take care, Welt. We'll see you again soon.”

“Thank you. I'll be sure to visit sometime.” Welt turns and leaves into the Express, only stopping to wave.

—

They were in space before anyone knew it. Everything was set, Himeko had set the path back to their side of the universe. Pom-Pom was impressed with Black Swan's caretaking of the Express with their leave. And now it was time to reveal the painting.

“Everyone gather around!” Pom-Pom yelled. Everyone did so, gathering around the covered painting that leaned against the bar in the party car. “Caelus, could you do the honors?”

“Alright!” Caelus grabbed the corner of the fabric covering and pulled. The fabric slipped off and revealed a painting of the group. Astral Express Crew and their friends from Earth, a painting they never posed for, a small swan set into the background, someone Griseo never met.

Himeko smiled. “This is beautiful. Griseo is a wonderful girl.”

Pom-Pom starts hopping around happily. “Let's put it up! Let's put it up!”

Dan Heng chuckles. “Where Pom-Pom?”

“The main carriage that way everyone can see!”

“Let's do that, come on.” Dan Heng picks up the painting and leads the way. They put it up, admiring the beauty Griseo painted. Her personality radiates from the painting and makes everyone smile.

Chapter Text

Himeko made a pit stop at the Herta Space Station. That led her to the archive of objects deep in the station.

Himeko touched the plaque for a broken sword, colored red. The sobs, yelling and mourning. Himeko finally understood what it meant, why she felt a pull towards this weapon.

“I was reborn in fire, my planet was hot and constantly burning, the only escape was the forest, where I found the Express. I was smiling in the fire, like a phoenix I rose from the ashes.” Himeko stuck her hand into the force field that held the broken sword. She expected the sword to not react, but it did. It stuck itself together and rebuilt the broken and missing pieces with a web of light. She grabbed the handle and pulled the reconstructed sword out of the force field. It felt light in her hands.

Tendrils of light came from the sword and climbed up her arm and down her dress. It changed her outfit, and as the light climbed back to the sword, it revealed an outfit change. The long dress still remained but shifted to the back. It added a breast plate and other armor, and the red and white color remained now accented with black. Angel motifs showed themselves, and her coat changed into a shorter jacket adorned with feathers. Her hair put half in a bun and half down, now framed by a wing-like headpiece.

With the light now back in the sword, she felt complete, like that sword was a part missing from her. She was happy.

“Welcome back, Surtr.” Himeko spoke as if she was greeting an old friend.