Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Sunday had been on the Astral Express for over three weeks now. Over that time, He had…slowly gotten used to a large amount of expectations had to stay here. To be frank, he was getting used to how few   there were. The first time he was tasked with cleaning a room he actually got scolded for doing too much! Scolded! 

It was strange.
But awfully freeing.
It reminded him of the times before Gopher Wood. Before Penacony. Of his mother. Of Robin.

However, that didn’t stop the…negatives of the situation. Cleaning was how he felt sane at this point. It had become a source of normalcy. A sense of faith. Sunday only had a small guest closet to stay in, so he couldn’t even clean his own space, yet alone clean it enough for his sense of normalcy. He didn’t like dirt. He didn’t like dust. The Express didn’t mind it as much as he did, but he didn’t think they liked it either. They didn’t seem to be wracked with the guilt he was whenever he didn’t feel like a task was accomplished , and they always pulled him away before he could feel concluded. Fretting that he was spending too much energy on little things, saying that he needed rest and to give his hands a break. It made him nauseous.

So he’s been coming out in the middle of the night to clean. When only PomPom is awake, they had already reached an agreement there. PomPom liked it being clean, and Sunday needed to clean. He had made them promise not to tell the others, insisting that it was easier this way. He didn’t like to make waves. He felt like he was intruding on a family who are perfectly fine without him. Like he was being adopted all over again. He felt more accepted and forgiven in this grouping than he had ever felt with his Father, but he still felt like he would lose it all. Like it was never his to begin with. Nor was he really confident that he would be allowed to stay.

If he gets everything perfect, He won’t lose them yet. Five scrubs each tile. Eight swipes each blind. Ten seconds every soak. He was even using THEIR power to silence the volume of the vacuum, so he could go through the floor, every cushion, every chair; 3 times, without waking the crewmembers. If he was perfect, if he was silent; everything would be fine! THEY had never led him astray before. Only his Father did.

“Sunday?”

“Fuck! ” He jumped. He was so focused on getting every spot on this chair that he didn’t realize the new addition to the room. “I apologize if I woke you-”

“Sunday, It’s 5am.” Welt had his head tilted to the side, eyebrow raised. “What in the aeons above, are you doing awake?”

“I didn’t realize..” He shook his head. He didn’t finish the section before he turned around. He would have to start all over again. He swiftly put his hands behind his back, repeatedly pressing every finger against his thumb, counting in quarter beats to the number of eight. If he keeps it going, it will all be fine. He shook his wings out to the side, ignoring the wrench in his stomach when a tiny feather fell off towards the ground. “I just..”

He didn’t have a lie prepared. He didn’t think ahead. Even THEY couldn’t save him now. He was so tired, So disorganized, that he didn’t even think; Hey! Someone might catch you! What an idiot he was.

It was all gonna fall apart. The best opportunity he could have ever been granted is squandered already. This was his punishment for not fixing this all earlier. For not being more efficient. Surely THEY saw how poorly he was managing all of this and decided his future for him. He lied. He was keeping this all from them. They would hate him.

He had to focus on his hands again. Air in, Air out, 5, 6, 7, 8.

He’s too silent. Sunday can’t bear to move to look Welt in the eyes. In fact, his wings had moved to cover his own.

“I-I couldn’t sleep.”

“While I know that is true,” Welt sighed. He had given the wrong answer. He couldn’t stop his heart from panicking. From his body, mind, and spirit assuming the incoming punishment. “I also know that is not the whole truth. Are you still experiencing some adverse effects from leaving Penacony?”

“No.” He lied. A day hasn’t gone by without him feeling sick, Without the sensation of water on his limbs making him black out, without him having to count to 1000 to even be able to shut his eyes to sleep. He already felt like too much of a burden. Father would always come up with a fitting punishment every time he got sick. For every day passed, he would be hit. For every event missed, a feather would be pulled. His heart felt like it was going to rip out of his ribcage. His limbs felt slow and weak, the bags under his eyes heavy. “Well, unless you count my insomnia.”

“I don’t.” Welt adjusted his glasses, taking a step forward and crossing his arms. Sunday felt his entire body start to tremble in fear. He did not move. He could not move. “I also know you’re lying. Care to enlighten me?”

“Mister Yang,” Sunday cleared his throat, swallowing hard. He was a grown man. He had gone to, albeit religious, therapy before. He felt incredibly guilty just thinking about the concept of overstepping on this train. Becoming a burden? Asking for more than bare necessities? Aeons above, he would rather throw himself out the window. He already asked enough of them by stepping foot here. He doesn’t deserve it. “I’m fine. You really don’t need to bother with the formalities of checking in on me. I’m asking enough just staying here. I just like cleaning.”

“Sunday, Forgive me, But you look awful.” Welt gestured with one hand. Sunday had moved his wings slowly down, covering his cheeks more than his eyes at this point. “I’d rather not find you on the floor, So how about you sit down, I make some tea, and we talk . I don’t view this as a formality, So surely you can sit down and let me hear you out.”

“...Hear me out?”

“Or; I’ll tell the others.” Sunday’s eyes widened, tilting his head.

“You wouldn’t already?”

“Not without a chance of explanation, No.” Welt shook his head, hand now pointing to the couch. At least it was clean. “I don’t see why I would. It doesn’t harm anybody to let you clean. I am, however, worried that you are going to burn yourself out at an astronomical rate. You should be resting extra to accommodate the change from the Dreamscape still.”

“Okay.” Sunday took three deep breaths, but slowly walked to sit on the couch. He was fine. He wasn’t in trouble. Yet. He just needed to cover up how ill he had been feeling. A slow build up of constant nausea, hot flashes, and dizzy spells. Then he wouldn’t be punished. He couldn’t be. Father was long gone. He should be letting go of how these things feel by now.

“Good. I’ll get the tea. Admittedly, I already had the kettle going for myself.” Welt spoke as he walked away, slowly falling out of view.

Sunday took another three deep breaths. He put his arm on the table and leaned on his hand, looking at the other in his lap. He still had his left hand doing his finger trick. A funnel for all of the nervous energy that had been building up the last five minutes. He was a grown man, who felt disgusting to even be this emotional and dependent on someone who, objectively, should want him dead. His wings were quivering while attempting to cover his face. He hated them sometimes. They always gave him away.

He hated this overwhelming bundle of nerves he was becoming. Every time he got like this he felt sick to his stomach. That combined with the already hard to handle nausea; the only thing stopping him from gagging was the paralyzing fear of the concept. He deserved this torment. He didn’t finish the chair. He didn’t finish his dream. He didn’t stop people from being hurt. He hurt Robin. He hurt the express crew. He hurt everyone.

He wondered if he should feel guiltier over not thinking Xipe would care about his traitory, or if he should feel guilty for even considering that THEY would care about something as little and small as him. It might just be both.

When he goes to bed he will pray an extra 3 times. He can atone. That is the beauty of Xipe. He can feel that relief. Everything was fine when he prayed. He really missed the confession booth.

“Here you go.” Welt had already returned, sliding a cup of his homemade chamomile based anxiety reducing tea across the table. He had put a little bit of vanilla in it to make it a bit sweeter, Sunday could tell just by the smell. Had he really taken care enough to notice he liked that?

Of course he did. Welt was wonderful. He felt his stomach knot again for even doubting that.

He sat up straighter, Removing his arm from the table to slowly reach out for the cup with his hand, taking a small sip.

“So…And please speak honestly, Sunday.” He wanted to curse in a million languages for that one. He hated lying enough already. He felt better not having heard him flat out say it. He felt like no matter what he lost, at this point. “Are you doing alright?”

“Could I ask you something, First?” Sunday cleared his throat. The only way he could think of surviving this conversation was to get something off of his brain. He needed just one promise for everything to not go to shit. Maybe he could be honest then. He felt…terrible. “Please.”

“What is it?” Welt either saw the urgency in Sunday’s body language, or he was taking pity.

“Promise me that this conversation, things I have been keeping, anything I admit will not cost me my privilege of staying here.” Sunday took a breath, hands now both counting again in his lap. “It’s nothing creepy or anything like that I just-”

He took a deep breath.

“I need to hear you say it. I believe.”

“Sunday, I promise that you sharing what is burdening you will not jeopardize anything relating to do with the Astral Express, In any way shape or form.” 

Welt looked oddly soft in that moment. That was something Sunday had noticed very quickly. He was incredibly paternal, in a very..soft and delicate way. He was goofy, and loving in most of what he did. He was also forgetful, and a bit of a nerd. Himeko had told Sunday that the last time she had seen Welt as ‘fretful’ was when Dan Heng had just joined the crew. Stelle was largely cared for by March and Dan Heng themselves, when she was adjusting. It was incredibly healing to experience, if he was to be frank, but..new. Very new. He didn’t know how to handle it, accept it, or digest it. 

“I’m just concerned about how you’re doing. This in no way will come with any consequences, Unless you count a potential doctor's visit and mandatory sleep as consequences.”

“Thank you.” Sunday sighed, a lot more relief going through his body then he expected. His wings were still trembling, he was still freaked out, but..his stomach felt a little looser.

“No. I’m honestly doing pretty terrible.” He kept his eyes down at his hands. Shifting in his lap. His wonderful protective gloves soften any incoming sensation. The perfect amount. “It’s a lot to explain. I’m very tired. It’s either a really long conversation or none at all, I think. It’s not exactly sunshine and rainbows either.”

“I can handle a really long conversation.” Welt chuckled. “You have no idea what everyone’s stories are. If the other side is sunshine and rainbows, our side is tropical storms and black holes. So far, I haven’t had to convince you that your past life’s ex husband isn't in the express and trying to kill you, or that you are not a nuke going to explode. Don’t worry about me. Just talk.”

“Well..Okay. Yeah. Fair enough.” Sunday sighed, wings finally relaxing, settling to droop down next to his head. “I believe I already told you that I was an orphan. As was Robin. We don’t remember our father, but our mother was..amazing. She died protecting us. Gopher Wood adopted us after that.”

“I do remember that, yes.”

“To be honest, my memory isn't very reliable during that time.” He cleared his throat. “I was young, and the only thing I cared about was Robin. Protecting her was my life mission, I don’t remember much else.”

“Makes sense.”

“But in all of my memories, Father was…strict.” Sunday’s wings flipped twice. “I couldn’t get sick, I had to pray perfectly, Perfect grades, Perfect attendance to everything, Meanwhile I was already taking care of big projects in Penacony by the time I was 16. I was forced to be a certain way essentially my entire life. Or I'd get..punished. My two wing piercings? Not aesthetics. He did that to me for neglecting my duties. Two for two missed events. They're meant to be permanent clips.”

“That’s..awful, Sunday.”

“I’m sure you have noticed that Robin has a large pair of wings she can manifest, have you not?”

“Yes. Stelle was curious, Even, but I insisted she did not ask.”

“My wings were severed. Terribly severed. I essentially have a life long disability because of such. In the Dreamscape, I could soothe it constantly. Now that I’m back in reality, I will slowly and slowly become more burdened by the pain in my back. I was never able to see if I could get it..solved, somehow.” Sunday chuckled to himself. “To be honest, This is the most time I’ve been outside of the Dream since I was 7. I haven't even seen my back in over a decade. My body doesn’t know how to handle being awake, or walking around, or the huge fuck up of still having wing bones in my back. In captivity at least I was chained to a chair the entire time.”

“That sounds incredibly painful.” Welt’s eyes were a little wide. “And neglectful. And abusive.”

“I am aware.” Sunday sighed, slouching a bit into the couch. He picked up the cup for another sip. “I have spent the last year, pretty much reflecting on how..shit he was. He ruined me. Manipulated me. The array of issues I have solely because of him is..intense. If not for Robin’s insistence and ever-going presence in my life; I believe I would have never reflected. I still have a multitude of hold ups in this regard, No matter how much I attempt to remove them.”

He placed the cup back down. Deciding to tap his fingers against the cup in a rhythm now instead.

“I have been diagnosed with OCD, PTSD, and Insomnia. I had a diagnostic test for ADHD and Autism before everything went down but I was unable to reschedule due to the whole ‘being in prison and a fugitive’ aspect of it all. I am currently not medicated. I have to wait a full year outside of the Dreamscape before I can partake in a sleep study, Which is really the only thing I can do to help figure my health out. I detest doctor’s, So even that was…a lot for me. Besides physical therapy. I do genuinely like cleaning, I assure you I do, but…”

“But it’s also a compulsion.” Welt concluded, his face softening visibly as many dots seemed to connect in his head. “No wonder you sneak out to clean. Everyone keeps pulling you from your routine, don't they?”

“Yes. I have a bit of a problem not..listening in a lot of scenarios.” He took a deep sigh. “Especially in this one. So I found a solution!”

“I don’t think staying up all night is a solution, Sunday.” Welt shook his head gently, gesturing with his left hand. “It’s self-sacrificial. We can just let you do your routine. It’d be quite easy to accommodate, While still being fair in your workload. How often are you up this late?”

“Are you..sure?” Sunday swallowed, his wings momentarily starting to shake. “I am usually out here ranging until around.. 3am to 4am. It’s slowly getting later. I typically don’t fall asleep until 5 or 6. If I fall asleep.”

“You’re always up by 8am, Sunday! No wonder you look so terrible. I wouldn’t be shocked if you got hospitalized soon, With how little sleep you have been getting.” Welt looked incredibly worried, and incredibly disappointed. It must be a lot worse than he thought. Sunday’s stomach felt like an anchor had dropped inside of him. “How are you physically feeling?”

Sunday’s wings started full on quivering at that, his eyes quickly averting to look at his hands full focus. He didn’t even seem to notice his wings this time.

“Awful.” He felt like he had a massive lump in his throat. “Really awful. Constantly nauseous. Incredibly dizzy. My throat has been incredibly dry, I’ve been freezing and fatigued. I’ve thrown up uh- a lot. Passed out a few times. I think. I’m honestly not really- fully sure.”

“Sunday!” Welt looked shocked. His hands gestured out in a exacerbated way, and that caused Sunday to flinch and his breathing to hitch. He immediately seemed to notice, putting his hands down on the table with one slightly reaching towards the other. He started speaking in a much softer voice. “I’m sorry. I’m not upset with you, I’m simply frustrated you haven't told any of us. Or at the very least asked to see a doctor, Even with your hold-ups.”

“I felt too guilty even pondering the idea.” Sunday admitted, his arms now having retreated back to his body, although he was now looking at Welt’s hands. “I’m incredibly sorry. I didn’t want to be a hassle. I still don’t. I’ve already been given so much. I should be fully capable of taking care of myself and staying out of trouble.”

“I understand. And I think I get why you believe that.” He didn’t move his hands, but he did lean forward slightly. “You aren’t a burden on us. You sleep in a closet, You clean up more than everyone else, You are incredibly polite and a fantastic aid in almost everything you’ve done so far. We are the ones who should be accommodating you more, Sunday. Besides that, we take care of each other here. It’s something we care very strongly about. I think you deserve that care. I really do. I just want to be able to give it.”

Halovian’s are especially sensitive to emotion. Empathy was a necessary tool in their development at some point in the generational line; To the point where there is mandatory training for those with extra sensitivity. Sunday and Robin both fell under that description. While Father never allowed such to occur, As an adult Sunday was able to learn enough to help alleviate. Even then, Sunday has always been a crybaby. Even over nonsensical things, tears were his body's immediate reaction. While he excelled at crying, He was horrible at doing so in front of others. Robin being, as always, the only exception.

Sunday couldn’t tell if it was the sleep deprivation, the exhaustion, the fever, or all of the above that caused that to instantly make him sob. But something inside of him aided it in giving way. Before he knew it he had one hand covering his mouth as his shoulders shook, tears already starting to dampen his glove and occasionally drip onto his pants. His wings curled to try to hide his eyes, but were drooped a little too low to do much to help. He couldn’t even attempt to talk. Every time he opened his mouth the most embarrassingly loud sob and hiccup harmony escaped his lips. It sounded like a chirp.

“...Would you appreciate a hug?”

It was embarrassing how fast he nodded. Welt didn’t take much time to stand up and sit right next to Sunday on the opposite side of the couch. His right hand went to the back of his head, Pulling his face directly into his shoulder, as the other wrapped his arms around his torso. It was a few minutes of Welt rubbing his back as he loudly sobbed, feeling with drastic concern at just how warm his skin felt. Eventually though, the sobs slowed. His breathing evened out. Sunday didn’t exactly know what to do, But he knew it was helping. That was enough for the moment. Even if his head was screaming to push him away.

“I’m sorry.” Sunday sniffed, pulling away slightly to rub at his eyes. “I don’t know why I- I. I didn’t mean to break down like that.”

“It’s okay. I’m happy to help.” Welt nodded, one hand still rubbing the other’s back. But he did take the opportunity to put his wrist on the other’s forehead. It was even hotter. “Would you let me take your temperature? Have you taken it recently?”

“It was 100 this morning.” Sunday mumbled. “Yesterday morning, I mean.”

“I’ll be right back.” Welt ruffled the top of Sunday’s head, walking over to a storage cabinet nearby that had a medical kit inside. He quickly found the thermometer and was already walking back towards the couch and handing it to him. “I do think I have to inform the crew about you not feeling well. I can spare as many details as you need about everything else. I know that wasn’t everything going on.”

“Thank you. I understand.” Sunday put the thermometer under his tongue, trying very hard to keep it perfectly on the vein.

“I hope you will feel comfortable talking about more with me in the future. The door is always open.” Welt spoke softly, not averting his gaze from the tiny screen. “It's protocol whenever anyone gets sick that it's all hands on deck. No matter who it is. No one will be upset with you, I assure you. Is the temperature range for Halovians the same as typical humans?”

Sunday nodded. After a few seconds there were three tiny beeps, and Sunday was handing it over to Welt. He didn’t even bother to look at it himself.

“Shit.” Welt’s eyes were wide. “103.6.”

“Oh..”

“Alright, For now I want you to rest down here, Okay?” He paused until Sunday nodded, although he looked a little embarrassed. It just worsened how already flushed his cheeks were. He pulled out a blanket from nearby, handing it over to the other. “I’m going to go wake Himeko, and notify PomPom. We might need to ask a few questions about how to get you proper care in a few minutes.”

“I apologize for the hassle.” Sunday quickly took the blanket and wrapped it around himself. “Thank you.”

As Welt walked, he quickly pulled out his phone and went into the original Astral Express crew group chat. The one without Sunday. Thankfully, it looked like two members were already awake.

-Welt has come online-

Welt: I apologize in advance for texting so early in the morning.

Welt: Sunday has a fever of 103.6, His other symptoms seem fairly severe, but I do not know the full details quite yet

Welt: I would appreciate it if everyone could be delicate. He hasn’t been sleeping much

Dan Heng: That’s a very high fever. Is there anything I can do right now?

Welt: I don’t know quite yet. I’m on my way to wake Himeko right now so we can get on top of getting a doctor to come see him.

Stelle: oof

Stelle: he can sleep in my bed. I know his room is tiiinyy and his bed sucks

Stelle: plus i have a motherlode of blankets and a bath would probably help

Stelle: i could put on robins music and everything. cozy it the hell up in here

Welt: That sounds wonderful, Stelle. Would you be ready to expect us in around ten minutes?

Stelle: yea

Welt: I’ll let you guys know if we need anything else. He did say that yesterday morning his fever was only 100, So it might not be at its worst yet.

-Welt has gone offline-

Welt was already in front of Himeko's door. He knocked three times with his knuckles, pushing his glasses back on his nose. It was around five seconds until he was told to just come in. He quickly opened the door and entered, Himeko sitting up in bed and rubbing her eyes.

“What’s wrong?” 

“Sunday has a fever of 103.6.” He watched as her eyes widened, now quickly tossing her blankets off of her and stepping into her slippers. “I know we talked about our concerns a few nights ago. I cannot fully embellish, but..he did talk to me. Opened up a bit. I believe we need to be pretty delicate in taking care of him. Alongside redoing our chores schedule.”

“Alright.” Himeko yawned, stretching her back as she turned to face him. “What’s our game plan?”

“Stelle offered up her room for his recovery, So I would like to get him into her bed and comfortable. Check if he's actually digested anything, Get him some water, and then try to see if we can get a doctor in to see him today.” He stepped outside of the door and held it open for her. “I think we should text Robin for some insider info, as well. It would be a lot easier than trying to quiz Sunday on typical Halovian care.”

“I can do that. I need to make myself some coffee anyways. If he’s opening up with you, It’s more logical for you to take the lead, I believe.” Himeko walked with Welt towards the main car, Nodding to him as he opened the door in thanks. He agreed with her with a small smile. “I’ll meet you in Stelle’s room?”

Welt did not know nearly enough about Halovians as he needed to. If he could internally kick himself for not preparing for something like this, He would. Sunday was not someone who would openly admit his misgivings. He’s prideful, and Stubborn, even if his genuine demeanor was passive and gentle. He should have looked into more specific signs. The closeness he had earlier gave him a lot of inquiries he was desperate to look into. His feathers did not seem healthy. He had no muscular toning despite being a busybody. His skin was pale and despite his effort to conceal it; his eye bags were terrible. He couldn’t tell if Sunday was even cognizant of how much he was shaking. Of how his back seemed to buckle in a way that could only be described as disturbing. 

It gave him even more questions the more he thought about it. He said he detests doctors, So is that a sign of medical abuse? Or just medical neglect?

Were there multiple forms of Halovians? Him mentioning his wings gave him inclinations in his head. His wings were cruelly cut off. Did he ever get them investigated? Inspected? Does he actually go to a proper doctor? Has he ever gone to a proper doctor?



Welt returned to find Sunday patiently waiting for him to return. He seemed to finish the cup of tea while he was gone, but was shivering inside the blanket. Sunday had given up trying to seem put together and well completely, which is either a sign of him getting sicker and sicker; or he just didn’t see the point anymore. He couldn’t tell himself, to be honest.

“Stelle is giving you her bed for a while, So whenever you’re ready, We should get you set up there.” Welt gave him a gentle smile. “Did you like the tea? I can make you some more.”

“That’s very nice of her. I am alright for now, but..maybe in a bit?” Sunday swallowed, standing up as fast as he seemed to be able. His face quickly lost multiple shades of color. He grimaced as he extended his wings and moved one hand to his forehead, with the other instinctively going out to try to balance himself. It wasn’t working. In around five seconds, his knees buckled and he toppled forward. Luckily, Welt caught him immediately. 

Welt couldn’t help but notice that Sunday’s halo spun and rapidly lit up when it happened. He had always noticed how Halovian eyes are distinctly different; much more sensitive to things then typical human’s. Robin’s seemed to function a lot less sharply then Sunday’s did. His was frantic, And typically startled. They zoned in and out fast, and never seemed to settle unless they were hidden.  Did Sunday hide how his halo reacts? Is that possible? He was able to sever it from himself in the dreamscape, Can he do that outside of the land of memoria?

How badly did his experience with memoria shape him? Is this just that?

“Himeko,” Welt grunted as he moved to support Sunday’s weight, Opting to slowly kneel on the floor and gently lower him so he was leaning against his leg. “Could you text Dan Heng to come help me out, Please?”

“Will do!” Himeko was already on her phone, So she had it done within ten seconds. “I’ll bring a bowl and a washcloth up once my coffee is done. Robin is awake, Thankfully, So I’m going to get a good list while I already have her attention.”

“That's great. Thank you.”

“What’s the matter?” Dan Heng rushed through the door, darting over to their sides the second he saw where they were. “What do you need?”

“He fainted. I should be able to carry him, But I’ll need help with clearing the path. I also want to make a bit of a gameplan with everyone awake, Once we’ve gotten him settled.” Welt placed his hand on Sunday’s cheek to check in on his temperature again, not happy to notice his skin is somehow hotter yet again. He moved, placing one arm under his knees and the other under his back. Slowly lifting him into the air, and making sure he's leaning against his chest. Dan Heng simply nodded, wordlessly walking to open the door and ensure the path was clear. Once they hit the party car, Sunday’s eyes slowly blinked open. His pupils darted in and out until they landed on Welt’s face. Then they settled on being dilated for a moment. His wings also seemed to flutter for a moment, and he could feel a physical restraint in a reaction.

“Um.” Sunday mumbled, lifting his head fully and noticing Dan Heng leading their way. “Oh. I passed out.”

“You sure did. Are you feeling alright?” Welt slightly readjusted as he brought Sunday up the stairs. 

“I’ll be fine. I think I just stood up too fast.” He sighed. “My apologies. I can wa-”

“It’s fine.” Welt squeezed him gently, before finally walking into Stelle’s room, the door already open awaiting their arrival. Stelle had already pulled the blankets off in an easy way for Welt to place Sunday on the bed without him having to move to get settled. Sunday’s wings were covering his face again. Welt could see the outline of his golden eye’s settling under the feathers.

Aeons above did he feel guilty. He understood that everyone got this treatment, but..it did not stop the churning evergoing in his stomach.

“How you feeling, Sunny?” Stelle asked with a small mischievous smile.

“I’ve been better.” He could not hide his irritation. She has continued to not let it go. Not one missed opportunity. “I would appreciate it if you stopped referring to me by that in the future.”

“Mm. Maybe.” She walked over to her desk nearby, turning on her personal phonograph to Robin’s newest album. “You have pajamas in your room, Right? Want me to grab em?”

“You do not have to,” His wings flapped nervously as Welt pulled three different blankets on top of him, as Dan Heng was clearing off Stelle’s nightstand. “I appreciate the offer, though.”

“I don’t have to, but I want to.” Stelle shook her head, before nodding over to Welt and heading out the door. “I’ll be right back.”

“Alright, Well..” Welt sat down on the bed, crossing his legs and putting his hands on his knee. “First, Sunday, When was the last time you had some water? Have you managed to keep anything down?”

“Dinner. And nothing really in..two days?” He mumbled, now strumming his fingers against his own bicep. The longer he talked, the more horse his throat felt. The true honesty is that everytime he ate he felt like a sinner. Gluttony was never allowed in Father’s home. “That isn’t uncommon for me, Though.”

“Dan Heng, Could you?” He was already moving before he had the chance to finish his sentence. He looked back over to Sunday. “Okay. We’re going to have you drink some water and then rest for a bit. I’ll have some simple soup made. You really should take a bath, and while that happens we’ll figure out how fast we can get a doctor in. Himeko already contacted Robin so we can make sure all bases are covered.”

“Oh. Okay.” He blinked a few times, taking a deep breath. Aeons above, this was embarrassing. Sunday, at his grown age, having to say he can’t take a bath alone. It was shameful. He hadn’t received help in hygiene since he was 6. “I uh..”

“What is it?”

“I am having difficulties with certain symptoms from being in The Dream for so long..” He coughed, wings tucking in closer to his face to cover it. “Every time I’ve been touching water I pass out. Especially in a bath. I really really would like to get clean, I already feel guilty being this gross in Miss Stelle’s bed, But..I…”

“If it’s a problem, I will help. I believe not drowning is more important than privacy, In this case.” He shook his head like it was obvious. “We can hold off until it's urgent. I largely suggested the idea to bring down your temperature. Have you been able to shower?”

“Very quickly, Yes.” It’s a huge part of why he’s been so focused on cleaning. He couldn’t even clean himself properly. He had already hurt his back in the shower this..yesterday morning.

“Ah.” He sighed, taking a second to rub the bridge of his nose. Dan Heng walked over and handed the cup to Sunday, then standing off to the side and pulling out his phone. “Once you’ve rested a bit, I’ll want to get a full list of your symptoms. That way we can try to make the doctor's visit as short as possible.”

“Alright.” Sunday nodded, his wings slowly peeling away from his face. He was looking up at Welt with a very..vulnerable expression. His pupils dilated. Blinking twice. “Thank you.”

“Don’t mention it.” Welt smiled, turning his head as Stelle’s door opened yet again, Himeko and Stelle both entering with a very sleepy March behind them. Dan Heng walked right over to the two youngins, Clearing up the area so Himeko could place the bowl on the nightstand. “Right on time.”

“I would’ve been here sooner but March woke up and delayed me a bit.” She put the washcloth into the bowl, fully soaking it in the water. “Sunday, How are you feeling? Could you lay back for me?”

“I’ve been better.” Sunday replied yet again, his favorite go-to downplay to relieve his overwhelming guilt. He did immediately move the pillows around him to allow him to lean back, not particularly wanting to be fully horizontal if he could help it. He extended his wings out and laid them to rest, silently hoping the water did not drench his feathers. He couldn’t put that on them. Not like this.

“Sounds about right.” She rang the washcloth out and then folded it, gently placing it onto Sunday’s forehead and smoothing it out with her hand. He winced a little at first, but very quickly it turned into an incredibly relieving sensation. “I talked with Robin. She wanted me to tell you to text her when you can, Okay? She’s also going to try to free up a day to come visit.”

“I will. Thank you. I appreciate it.” Sunday had to swallow to avoid choking up at that. He patted his pockets to discover his phone wasn’t on him. “I don’t seem to have my phone. I hate to ask, But could someone..?”

“I’ll fetch it for you.” Himeko smiled, gently putting a hand on Welt’s shoulder as she walked back out of the room. March, Dan Heng, and Stelle were all in a very deep hushed conversation, with only March looking over at Sunday and giving him a small wave. He returned it. She then returned back to the convo, Shortly after shoving Stelle towards the bed with the pajamas still in her hand.

“We’re going to head out to give you a bit of space.” She placed the neatly folded clothes on the bench in front of her bed. Then she gave him a bit of an awkward wave. “We’ll all have our phones on in case you need anything, Okay? Everything in my fridge is free range. If you get bored I can show you how to set up the TV. I have a super good phone charger set up for whenever you need it. Oh and uh- Trashcake is a snuggler.”

“Thank you, Miss Stelle. I appreciate it. I do not deserve your hospitality.” He looked over towards the nearby couch, admiring the little guy taking a very big nap. “I don’t mind. I’ve never had much of an opportunity to interact with any of the catcakes. Just heard stories.”

“Okay. Well. Don’t be scared to call us. Rest up.” Stelle gave him a thumbs up, and then walked out. Dan Heng and March both gave waves as they walked out the door. He then returned his gaze towards Welt.

“You don’t have to be nearly as formal with us, Sunday.” He moved to be fully facing towards him. “You’re our friend. Even if you don’t stay and Trailblaze with us officially, You are still considered one of us. At least to me.”

“I’m sorry.” He chuckled, now letting his hands fidget in his lap under the blankets. He only felt colder as time went on. He didn’t mention that he had never had friends before. That that was a new term for him completely. “It’s a bit of a habit. I don’t intend to be rude or ungrateful.”

“I assumed. None of us have taken any offense. I just..wanted to specify.” He reached over and felt the washcloth, Grimacing slightly as he felt it was already hot. He pulled the cloth off and redid the earlier actions. Sunday sighed in relief this time. “I’m sorry if you didn’t enjoy being carried. I didn’t think to wait to make sure you were comfortable with it. I should have.”

“Thank you for thinking of my comforts at all. It was fine. I would’ve done the same.” He took a hand out to grab his glass of water again, Taking a few sips and using his other hand to keep the cloth in place. “Did you. Did you mean that?”

“Mean what?”

“That you consider me..one of you?” He put the glass back and laid back into the pillows. He let his eyes settle on his hands.

“I do.” He nodded, looking forward towards Stelle’s various decorations. “I don’t think I’m alone in it either. You fit in a lot more than you seem to believe.”

Sunday didn’t say anything. He didn’t have any idea what to say. What was being a friend, Really?

“I believe you’ll find a lot of fulfillment in trailblazing. If I remember correctly, the others were thinking of bringing you to Belobog. It’s quite cold, but a very good showing of what we do best.” He continued. He didn’t seem to be bothered by the lack of reply. “Trailblazing means something different to all of us, Yet it's unified in experience. We all have different goals.”


“Belobog?” Sunday directed his gaze towards Welt’s face again. His vision was a bit too blurry to read his expression. He couldn’t tell if the tears welling in his eyes were from the fever or just this converstion. Another downside to his emotionally digestion issues.

“Jarillo 6. You’d like it there. I’ll save the story for them. I wasn’t a part of that mission directly.” He looked back over, Giving a gentle smile. “It’s a world you'd find a lot of hope in.”

“I. I see.” He blinked a few times. “I didn’t think you’d think of it that far.”

“I don’t see why I wouldn’t.”

“Why are you so..” He paused for a moment. His wings twitched slightly, before resuming to laying flat. “Nice. To me?”

“I have multiple reasons. I think your heart is in one of the most correct places I’ve seen in a long while. You’re kind. You’re considerate. You’ve endured a lot and have tried to use it to push you forward. You’re incredibly self sacrificial. I did, and do, Genuinely mean that you are one of my Trailblazing goals. You have the self strength to keep going even in failure. It takes a lot to admit you were in the wrong place.” He sighed. Seeming to make a mental agreement in his head. “To be honest with you, You..remind me a bit of my son.”

“You have a son?”

“Yes. His name is Joffrey. We always call him Joey. I adopted him in my 50’s” He adjusted his glasses, pushing them up fully back onto his face. “I never got to see him fully grow up. I had to say goodbye to that life a while ago. Long before I ended upon the express. He’d be around your age, Now.”

“I see. That’s..” Sunday cleared his throat. “Thank you. That’s incredibly high praise. I don’t know if I’ve ever received a better..compliment.”

“I mean it.” Welt patted the top of the blankets, on Sunday’s leg. “You haven’t exactly had many good examples to keep, In your life. I’m more than happy to be there for you. It’s what a friend does.”

“Thank you, I..” Sunday shook his head. “I don’t know what to say.”

“That’s alright.”

“Sorry for the delay, It took me a bit to find.” Himeko had opened the door and reentered. She held out the phone for Sunday to take. “Here.”

“Thank you.” He put his phone in his lap, Deciding to wait a few minutes before texting his sister. He always seemed to get blubbery whenever he did. He missed her.

“Text us if you need anything.” Himeko smiled, habitually rubbing Sunday’s shoulder with sympathy before she started to head out the room. “I’m going to go get Shush started on making you something to eat. You'll know where to find me, Welt.”

“I’ll be down in a few minutes.” Welt nodded to her as she left the room, before turning his gaze back to Sunday. “I’ll refresh the cloth before I leave you to rest for a bit. Is there anything that you need?’

“Could I..get a straw?”

“Yes.” Welt stood up, walking over to Stelle’s kitchen area and searching for a few seconds, before finally fetching one and quickly placing it into Sunday’s water. “Anything else?’

‘No. I don’t think so.” Sunday shook his head, giving a grateful smile. “Thank you.”

“Happily.” Welt grabbed the cloth and submerged it yet again. When he placed it back on his forehead, he ruffled Sunday’s hair a bit. “Alright. I’ll be checking in on you regularly, But try to get some sleep. I know that may be easier said than done.”

Sunday nodded. He watched as Welt exited the room, and headed out the door.

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅪 ˎˊ˗—--

He immediately picked up his phone and opened his messages with Robin.


Robin: Brother!

Robin: Himeko contacted me saying you weren’t feeling well. What’s going on? And you better be honest!

Robin: You can always talk to me about these sorts of things. I know how freaked out you get when you’re sick.

Robin: I love you and I miss you. I already asked if I could visit soon, I’m trying to edit my schedule to make it tomorrow if I can.

Robin: I’m not busy today. I have my notifications on. I can call you in the afternoon! ٩(ˊᗜˋ*)و ♡

-Sunday has come online.-

Sunday: I’m sorry to worry you. I just got ahold of my phone

Sunday: It’s been a very weird, Stressful, Nauseating morning.

Robin: Don’t worry about me (◞ ‸ ◟ㆀ)

Robin: What's going on?

Sunday: It’s a lot to explain

Robin: (._.)

Sunday: Okay. I’ll explain anyway

Sunday: Sickness wise..I believe I have largely made it a lot worse

Sunday: I have a fever of 103ish. I haven’t been sleeping well. Passing out and throwing up a lot

Sunday: Apparently it’s not a good idea to not sleep for 24 hours with a fever

Robin: Sunday..

Sunday: Yes yes I know

Sunday: I’ve been having some troubles with cleaning since getting on the express

Sunday: As in, I clean a lot more and very specifically and the others do not care nearly as much as I do

Robin: That isn’t very shocking..

Sunday: Anyways. I’ve been sneaking out at night to clean

Robin: Of course you have

Sunday: I got a bit carried away

Sunday: And mister Yang caught me cleaning at 5 am

Sunday: And I got trapped into an actual conversation about my feelings

Sunday: I still really don’t understand why theyre all so nice to me

Sunday: Especially mister Yang

Robin: You’re too hard on yourself

Sunday: Says everyone ever apparently

Sunday: Sorry this is the first time I’ve been alone in around an hour and a half and my brain is still a bit fried

Sunday: But everyones been incredibly caring

Sunday: I’m currently bundled in miss Stelle’s bed, with a washcloth on my head, and I’m being made food

Sunday: It’s crew policy to take care of each other when sick it seems

Robin: That doesn’t surprise me. They’re all very caring

Sunday: Yeah. It’s been very nice

Sunday: I think

Sunday: Also very overwhelming?

Robin: How did the talk about your feelings go?

Robin: You are not the most open book in the world

Sunday: Really good I think

Sunday: I’m honestly not sure

Sunday: I talked about Father

Sunday: And my fucked up wings

Robin: How detailed?

Sunday: Oh incredibly vague whenever possible

Sunday: I don’t even know why I talked about as much as I did

Sunday: I was just freaking out over the concept of him finding me

Sunday: And I asked him to promise me that I wouldn’t get punished for talking about it and he immediately agreed

Sunday: And it just. Happened

Sunday: He told me I wasn't a burden and that he wanted to help me

Sunday: And I started sobbing

Sunday: And he hugged me and I sobbed more

Sunday: I’m personally blaming my fever for that

Robin: Oh, and not your glaring daddy issues? ( ≖‿  ≖ )

Sunday: No.

Sunday: But it’s quite funny that you say that

Sunday: Mister Yang said I reminded him of his son

Sunday: That he apparently has

Robin: Awwwwwww

Sunday: I think I’m missing a lot of details here

Sunday: I told him about my OCD and such

Sunday: He said they’re gonna remake the chore sheet

Sunday: So I don't have to sneak out anymore

Robin: Oh so a reasonable, Logical solution?

Sunday: I felt guilty.

Robin: Sunday, You always feel guilty

Sunday: Okay yes I know

Sunday: I just

Sunday: I am terrified of fucking this up

Robin: I know :(

Sunday: I don’t know why i’m even allowed here

Sunday: And mister Yang even said he considers me one of them already and that i was his friend

Sunday: and said he wasn’t the only one who did

Sunday: and I don’t get why

Sunday: He gave me this whole talk(which is where the son thing came up) about how he thinks trailblazing is a lot more for me then i think

Sunday: and that I belong more than I think

Sunday: He said that the others wanted to bring me to a past world they trailblazed and that he thinks id like it there. I’d like the hope in the world

Sunday: and he complimented me a lot

Sunday: I’m so out of my depth

Robin: Sunday..

Sunday: I don’t know how to be cared for

Sunday: I’m not good at it

Sunday: I’m terrified that I am so bad at being cared for that I am going to somehow make them hate me for all of this

Sunday: The only person I can remember taking care of me is You and our mother

Robin: Sunday

Sunday: I feel so gross for even accepting all of this

Sunday: For being in Stelles bed

Sunday: for everything

Sunday: I was carried like a child because I passed out

Sunday: And I’m being fretted over

Sunday: And I think Yang implied he wouldnt mind being my father figure

Sunday: but im really not sure

Sunday: and i might just be delusional

Sunday: He said that I did not have a lot of good role models in life

Sunday: and it seemed pretty clear he was implying Father there

Sunday: Cause we were just talking about him being a dad

Sunday: and I dont know how to handle that information

Sunday: i just said thank you and that I didn’t know what to say

Sunday: cause what do you say

Sunday: honestly

Sunday: And he was fine with that and he smiled at me

Sunday: I really cant fuck this up

Sunday: but I already am I think

Sunday: Fuck

Robin: Sunday

Robin: I don’t think you’re fucking up anything

Robin: Take a deep breath

Sunday: Okay

Sunday: Sorry

Robin: No apologies necessary

Robin: You have a lot of shit wrong with you

Robin: Said with so much love

Robin: It is completely reasonable that you are freaking out

Sunday: Okay. Yeah

Robin: Being a vulnerable person has never been your forte

Robin: It was beaten out of you

Robin: And that is not normal or okay for it to have happened

Robin: And it will affect you

Sunday: I know

Robin: It sounds like Welt is very understanding of what's going on

Robin: And it sounds like you are benefiting from talking with him

Sunday:..I think so.

Robin: I want you to do something for me

Robin: Next time it seems like you are about to have another opening a page of your book moment

Robin: Talk to him about this?

Sunday: Okay. But what if he hates me and assumes that me thinking he could hate me for this is actually me implying that I think he would actually think that when I dont but i do but i dont

Robin: Or

Robin: And hear me out on this

Robin: He would take your anxieties at face value

Robin: And be more understanding in the fact that you are in a very new situation for you?

Sunday: Okay yes that is logically what he would do

Sunday: I am not thinking very logically

Robin: Really. I would never have guessed

Sunday: Okay fair

Sunday: I’m sorry for being a nervous wreck

Sunday: I don’t wanna be a burden

Robin: You are nothing but my loving dear brother

Robin: You will never be a burden to me

Sunday: Thank you. I love you

Robin: I love you too

Sunday: Okay so I should definitely talk to him about the whole

Sunday: I never really have received care and I kinda dont know how to receive it

Sunday: Thing

Robin: Yes.

Sunday: I will try

Robin: Besides all of that

Robin: How are you holding up?

Sunday: Oh my aeons am I miserable

Sunday: I really don’t wanna be detailed with the crew because I feel so guilty for all of this enough

Sunday: But this is awful

Sunday: I thought it was just me recovering from being in the Dream still

Sunday: And I think that is where it started

Sunday: I was already constantly more nauseous than usual and my sleep is going as good as it usually does

Sunday: I’ve been full on passing out everytime I touch too much water which is kinda common?

Sunday: And I haven't really kept anything down in a few days

Sunday: I’ve had a constant headache

Sunday: And I got my fever yesterday morning

Sunday: It has quickly gotten worse

Sunday: I’ve been really dizzy

Sunday: And I know i’ve already mentioned nausea but everytime my usual

Sunday: Nausea causing things happen

Sunday: It’s just so bad I can’t really describe how bad it is

Robin: That’s not good :(

Sunday: My throat is ridiculously sore

Sunday: And I’ve been keeping my extra wings tucked away

Sunday: Instead of spreading them out around when I’m home like I typically do

Sunday: Although I might stop now that I’m thinking about it. Now that mister Yang knows about my back

Robin: You should..

Robin: It’s not healthy to keep them hidden all the time

Sunday: I know

Sunday: Okay I’m getting really dizzy looking at my phone and I’m only feeling worse

Sunday: I might need to cut this short

Robin: You should try to get some sleep, Sunday

Sunday: Yeah that is what I was instructed to do

Sunday: Talking with you helped a lot.

Sunday: Like always

Robin: I’m happy I helped

Sunday: I love you

Sunday: And I miss you more than you can imagine

Robin: You too, Brother

Robin: I’ll text you when I can call, Okay?

Robin: And I did instruct Himeko to send me updates

Robin: So don’t stress too much

Sunday: I’ll try

Sunday: Talk to you later. -`♡´-

-Sunday has gone offline-

Sunday sniffed and put his phone on the nightstand. It took a few minutes of deep breathing and rubbing his face, but he did settle deeper into the bed without any more tears. Actually attempting to sleep would be the most difficult part of this process. But he would attempt it nonetheless.

Sunday took a deep breath, and imagined a flower opening.

Two more sets of wings appeared on the sides of his head, unfurling and relaxing with his original pair. The relief of effort almost pulled him into a nice slumber right there. He moved onto his side, Closed his eyes, and Waited.

And waited.

And waited.


—–˗ˏˋ 𓅪 ˎˊ˗—--

Welt was delighted to walk into the room and see Sunday actually sleeping. It was a bit jarring to see more wings then he remembered, but not too surprising. He pulled over one of Stelle’s desk chairs next to the bed so he would have a seat that wouldn’t disturb the boy, and sat down. He refreshed the washcloth and grimaced at how hot it was yet again. Sunday sighed in his sleep when he placed it back down.

All he could really do is rest and wait until the soup arrived or Sunday woke up. 

So that he did. Luckily, this gave him plenty of time to do more research on Halovians. He had Dan Heng upload everything he could, so thankfully this gave him enough to get a rough basis of the basics. He even shot a quick text to Doctor Ratio for some insight. He said he would reply when he had free time. He also seemed heavily intrigued as to why, Which slightly baffled the man. Ratio was never one to be heavily invested in a topic, Unless it was for research alone. Did he research Halovians? Or does he have a sudden interest in who is kept aboard the Express? 

Around 45 minutes later, March entered the room with a bowl of soup in her hands.

“Awwww…” She cooed. “He looks so peaceful when he's sleeping. Do you want me to put the soup in the fridge?”

“That would be great. We can heat it up when he wakes up.” Welt put his phone in his pocket, taking the opportunity to refresh the cloth yet again. He had been doing so around every 5 minutes. It was only getting hotter.

“That bad, Huh?” March walked over to the fridge and put the bowl inside, walking over to the bed afterwards. “You only use that face when you’re really worried..”

“His fever is very high.” Welt shook his head. “I can’t check it properly while he’s asleep. This is about all I can do.”

“Well..Let me know if I can do anything. I’m a glorified ice dispenser.”

“I will. Thank you March.”

She patted Welt’s back and then headed out the door. Back to the routine, it seems.

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅪ˎˊ˗—--

Around an hour later, Sunday started to make noises while he slept. It wasn’t too concerning at first, Largely being mumbles that didn’t make any sense. Once it started Welt put his phone away completely. After a few minutes, it was very clearly becoming something to be worried about. The expression on his face was nothing but painful. He was groaning and whining, Tossing around in his sleep. Welt was just petting his hair back, trying to give small comforts as he could. His mumbles were getting louder and louder.

Then Sunday started to apologize. Then he started to plead . Begging for forgiveness. Saying it wouldn’t happen again. Saying he didn’t need anything. Saying it was an accident, and that he would make up for it. He kept making high pitched noises in between his words. He was starting to hyperventilate in his sleep. His body was trembling. All of his wings were quivering. It seemed every second that went by it was only getting worse. Tears were rolling down his face. He almost shouted Robin’s name.

Then Welt heard what connected all of the dots.

He asked what his Father was doing.

Welt didn’t quite know what to do. In all the talking they did, He never really established where Sunday’s boundaries lied. He didn’t know what would happen if he forcibly woke him up. He really did not want to make matters worse. He retracted his hand from his head, deciding to hold his hand instead.

Then it was ripped out of his grasp, Sunday shot up; not seeming to notice that Welt was even there.

He immediately brought his knees to his chest. His wings covered his face. His hands tangled instantly in his hair. His feathers were puffed up and splayed out haphazardly. Sharp almost unhearable noises kept escaping his throat every time he hiccuped.

And he Sobbed . He sobbed so loud it sounded like his throat was being shredded.

“Fuck! ” Every inch of him was trembling, And he looked like he was about to rip his hair out. His knuckles were white. He was hitting himself repeatedly on the top of his head.

“Sunday, Hey,” Welt pulled the chair right up next to the bed. “Can you hear me?”

He flinched, but his behavior didn’t stop. If anything, it got worse. His breathing got more erratic. His sobs got louder. He gave a nod of confirmation.

“Can I touch you?” He received a tiny nod. Immediately Welt leaned over, gently prying Sunday’s hands away from his head. Once he had both of his hands untangled and brought away, he placed them both in one hand, and used his other to gently settle his hair.

“You’re alright.” He had his thumb gently rubbing back and forth. “It’s just us.”

“I-I-” Sunday choked on a sob, Which caused him to cough so badly the bed shook. He curled tighter around himself. “I’m so- So s-sorry. I- I can’t-”

“Hey, hey,” Welt moved his hand to Sunday’s knee. “It’s okay. You’re okay. I’m not upset.”

“I-” Sunday shook his head, his hands starting to hold on tight. His entire chest kept moving erratically. “I can’t breathe, I can’t- I’m Sor-”

“You don’t need to apologize. I’m going to get on the bed with you, Alright?” Welt, Albeit awkwardly, stood up and pushed the chair back slightly. He held onto Sunday’s hands as he moved to sit on the other side of him. Then, He gently started to push his legs away from his chest. “If you put your legs down it’ll help you breathe, You’re constricting your airflow. You don’t have to move anything else.”

“I’m so sorry, I-” Sunday did comply with the request. He even moved his wings away from his face, but he yanked one hand away so he could cough into his elbow. Then he hit his chest, Shaking his head back and forth in panic.

“Sunday, Can you look at me?” Welt moved his hand to be holding onto his wrist, So the other could feel his pulse. Sunday was looking at him with pure terror on his face. Eyes wide with his pupils blowing in and out, all wings quivering with feathers plastered in all directions, Halo dull..almost lifeless. And then randomly flashing with light.. “Focus on me, Alright? Feel my heartbeat. You’re okay. You’re sick, and you’re panicking, but you are safe . You don’t need to apologize, You don’t need to talk. Just breathe. Deep breaths.”

It took a minute, But it worked. Sunday didn’t stop sobbing, He didn’t stop shaking, But he was able to get his breathing under control. He relaxed his hands to read Welt’s pulse better. He was able to go thirty seconds without a coughing fit. It worked. Enough.

“..I’m so sorry.” He sniffed. “I’m so bad at this. I- I don’t know.”

“You don’t need to apologize.” Welt shook his head, gently rubbing Sunday’s back. He felt..burningly warm. “If you would like to talk about it, You can.”

“..It wasn’t anything too bad.” He took a pause to cough a few times. “Just-Just memories. Of the last time I was this sick.”

“I...see.” Welt took a deep breath. “You were talking in your sleep. I apologize if I’m overstepping but..I’m sorry you went through that. Whatever it was. You didn’t deserve that. You sounded terrified.”

“I was…Never taken care of when I was sick. Robin tried, But it was..dangerous, So I wouldn’t let her. I-I was never really taken care of in general. “ He sobbed. “I don’t even know how to do it. What to say. What to do. Isn’t that-Isn’t that pathetic?”

“No. It’s not.”

“I’m so petrified of fucking this all up. I can’t fuck this all up. I shouldn’t e-even be here. I don’t deserve it. Any of it.” His voice was getting more broken with every word. Some of his words were slowly starting to slur together. “I’m so stupidly broken that I am absolutely convinced that I’ll do something wrong and I’ll ruin everything with this. That I’ll make you all hhate me. That you’ll all finally open your eyes and see what I actually am. I was supposed to be dead, Or his puppet until the end of time. How the fuck was I supposed to know what to do with this? How? It’s- It’s just- “

“Sunday, We won’t hate you. You can’t fuck up being taken care of. At least, not in a way that would damage anything you have here.” All he could really do was look him in the eyes. The constantly darting, erratic eyes. “It’s new for you. That’s all it is. We’ll talk you through it, We’ll give you extra space. We can alleviate how overwhelming it is, As much as we can. The only thing you can do is live and learn.”

“What if it-it's not enough? What if I’ve already ruined it, byy even talking about this? I’ve never even had a-a friend before. I feel like a doomed case, I’m separated from the only person who makes me anything more then-then- him .” Sunday kept hiccuping. If he could describe his body like anything, it would be that his exhaustion was pulling him into some puddle. He didn’t even feel like himself. It felt like he was in the air and the ground at the same time. “I’d be better as a corpse. Then I wouldn’t be- I couldn’t hurt you all again. I wouldn’t be-be sick.”

“I promise you, Letting us take care of you will not damage your relationship with any of us. Especially me.”  Welt was very thankful that his guess of Sunday relying heavily on promises was correct. He seemed to physically soften at hearing that. “I’d argue you’re helping your relationships with us by allowing yourself to be taken care of. By communicating what you’re feeling. That’s a good thing, Sunday. You are wrong about how you see yourself. You would be better off if you had never met your supposed Father. Not dead. I am personally relieved that you lived through what happened. You have such a good heart, It’s damaged but it's still good.”

He didn’t reply this time. He just cried. He maintained eye contact, He leaned into his touch, But he didn’t push himself to say anything.

“You seemed to be comforted by it last time, So. Would you like a hug?”

Sunday’s reply was essentially throwing himself into Welt’s arms. He felt like a child for it, Of course, But it..did make him feel better. He gave good hugs. He tucked you into his shoulder, he supplied the perfect amount of pressure, He didn’t let go until you did. It felt safe.

He sobbed. And he sobbed. Welt just kept rubbing his back, and the back of his head. His back felt unnatural, Bumpy and malformed where it shouldn’t be possible. He avoided touching those areas when he found them, and avoided his spine altogether. He kept repeating that it was okay. He kept reassuring him that he wasn’t upset. He kept reminding him it was good that this was happening. He didn’t let go. 

It took longer than Sunday would ever admit until he stopped sobbing. Until the panic finally dissolved. But it did. Eventually. His ragged sobs turned into practical pants, and the tears running down his cheeks were replaced by sweat. His wings slowly smoothed out and straightened, drooping downwards to further the scene. His pupils were just blown now. Unmoving.

“Sunday, I’m going to check your temperature, Alright?”

Sunday didn’t feel like he had the energy to talk anymore. He just nodded. He didn’t even bother to move out of Welt’s arms. Not even when Welt leaned over to grab the thermometer off of the nightstand. Or when he just put it directly into his mouth, Instead of handing it to him like last time.

He didn’t bother reacting when it beeped. He didn’t say anything when Welt pulled out his phone with evident panic on his face. He blinked a few times, but he was too tired to try to do anything. He felt like he was melting. Everything ached. It was almost like he could feel the sensation and texture of the blanket seeping into his skin.

He did think it was a little strange he was calling instead of texting, Though. It rang twice before it was picked up

“Sunday’s temp is 104.7 and seems to be…. Could you..”

He couldn’t tell what he was saying anymore. That number was pretty high. He couldn’t even bother to care. He couldn’t remember if he had ever had a temperature that high before. Was that normal?

He was so tired. Welt was taking off his sweater and shirt, Now. He just held out the limbs it seemed he wanted. His head was so heavy. He was leaning against the other again.

Then two other people arrived. Himeko and…Dan Heng, it seemed. It was getting hard to keep his eyes open. He really wanted some water. He would kill for some water. He shouldn’t think that. That’s bad of him.

Dan Heng left to go to a different part of the area. Himeko was now holding a straw up to his mouth. Oh, Thank Xipe, His prayers were answered. He drank until he couldn’t anymore. The lack of air during it made him go into a coughing fit, Which made him wish he had more, But he would live. His back was being rubbed again. Aeons his throat hurt. He didn’t have the energy to look, but he needed to apologize for coughing up phlegm on Welt later.

His head felt like he was underwater. Everything was swimming. He felt like he was spinning even though he was fairly confident he was being held in place. He could’ve sworn he heard Robin’s voice. She couldn’t be here, Could she? He tried to call out to her and coughed yet again.

Himeko was looking at him with a bit of panic now. Did he do something wrong? Fuck, She must be upset he coughed on Welt.

He forced himself to speak. Maybe he could ask for some more water while he was at it. That would be really nice.

“I’m..sorry.”

Welt’s face was in view now, Looking at him. Speaking to him. He still can’t really hear anything. It’s all just buzzing.

“I can’t hear you. I’m sorry.” Aeons above did his head hurt. His stomach too. And his chest. That was probably just because of what happened earlier. Surely. “I..need water”

Welt looked over at Himeko and said something. She ran out of view.

He was being lifted up now. Welt was still holding him. It was nice. He was brought into the room Dan Heng had disappeared into. Which was the bathroom. That made a lot of sense. Why were they..?

“I can’t take a-” Sunday coughed again. He was placed down to sit on the edge of the bathtub, With Welt supporting the entirety of his bodyweight. “..I’d..”

Himeko was in view again. She had brought him some water, like he asked. He repeated the same events of last time, Practically chugging it through the straw. He took pauses to breathe this time at least. It was really really cold this time. His breathing was starting to become more and more jagged. In the corner of his eye, He saw a new person enter the room..he couldn’t quite tell who it was. A hand was cleaning up his chin.

His pants were pulled off, which seemed to be a team effort of Welt and..someone. The new person in the room felt so..familiar. He just couldn’t see well enough. He kept trying to blink, and force his eyes to focus, but it was just making him more dizzy. He had to swallow not to gag.

He was gently lifted again, and then he felt himself being lowered into the bath. The water was only up to his hips, And he felt that someone was holding him up, Somehow. He closed his eyes. He was so tired. He gave into the sensation as he felt water continuously being poured onto his back. He whispered for his sister as he drifted off to sleep.

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

Sunday woke up.
His entire body was freezing. He couldn’t even tell where he was. He knew he was sick, but that's about all he could remember. He felt like he was floating. Water was on him, and he was being held onto a ledge. Everything sounded pretty quiet, besides the water. Floating seemed fitting.

Sunday opened his eyes.

Right, He was in the bathroom. He was sick. Someone familiar had entered the room before he fell asleep. He blinked a few times and searched. Oh!

“..Robin? Is that you?”

“Sunday, You’re awake.” A voice to his right sounded really relieved. He couldn’t tell who it was. “Can you hear me now?”

“Yes?” He blinked a few more times. He didn’t move his gaze from who he thought was his sister. He couldn’t be wrong. He never was. “Robin.?”

“You sound confused.” Another cup of water was poured onto his back. He shuddered. “Can you tell me what you remember?”

“I don’t know. Everything is..Weird.” Sunday groaned when water went over the sensitive part of his back. He shook his head. “I remember someone entering the room? But not how I-I got here. I’m really..dizzy.”

“You’re sick. Your fever got a bit too high. That’s all you really need to know.” There was a reassuring hand on his shoulder now. Rubbing their thumb against his skin. “Just take it easy. You’ll be able to rest again shortly.”

“I-I can’t. This can’t be happening right now.” He tried to push himself up, but it was no use. The hands keeping him there were not budging. “If my Father found out- I can’t. I have to-”

“Hey, hey.” The voice sounded sad. Sunday couldn’t hold back his instinct, and His halo instinctively searched out for the emotions around him. Worry and sadness hit him like a truck, it felt like a heavy blanket was pulling him into the abyss. He wondered if it's similar to how Nihility feels. He sobbed. “You’re safe here. It’s alright.”

“You-You don’t understand.” His breathing hitched. He shook his head again. His head was spinning. “The last time I let this happen I lost my wings. It could’ve- It would’ve-”

“Sunday, I need to do this. I’m sorry. This kind of temperature can cause permanent damage.” The pressure keeping him down hadn’t wavered. He couldn’t budge. “Where do you think you are?”

“Home? Otherwise Robin couldn’t be here. She can tell you.” Sunday pleaded. He looked at her as tears ran down his cheeks. He was trying to move his body no matter what. The pouring of the water had to stop as everyone had to reach out to help restrain him. He kept slipping and hitting the porcelain. “I can’t take the punishment alone this time. I-I can’t let that happen to her. Please. Please let me go. She could- She can’t.”

“..He thinks I’m Robin.” He blinked. That didn’t make any sense. He knows that's Robin. “I’ve got this. I think.”

Robin moved to be sitting in front of him, on the floor outside of the tub. She smiled. His vision was so blurry.

“Hey, Sunday.” He felt the pouring of the water resume. They seem to be avoiding his spine now. “We aren’t home. Father isn’t here. I already made sure this can’t reach ears outside of this room.”

He sniffed. He blinked a few times, and he took a deep breath.

“We’re on the Astral Express. Can you take a second to try and think about it? And drink some water?” She was handed a cup of water with a straw, And she held it up to his mouth. He took a few gulps. “It’s okay if you can’t. You need to stay here, Right now.”


“..Right.” His wings flicked. His halo was uncharacteristically dull. He managed to move his arm just enough to cough into it. “I..I don’t get it.”

“Get what?” She tilted her head. Her wings didn’t move much.. 

“My head- I-“ He shuddered. “I’m on the Astral Express. This wasn’t-Isn’t some sort of dream. But-But how. I know what my childhood bathroom looks like. I know-“

“Hey..” She shook her head, moving her hand to gently pet his hair down. “You can take your time. Don’t rush. Can you tell me what you see?”

“Everything is…blurry. I feel like I’m spinning. But…” He gestured to the wall, And then to the counter. “Father’s portrait is right there. There’s a-an Oak family crow. I can-I can see you. It doesn’t make sense.”

“I see..” She seemed to be taking a second to think. She looked over to the right, where Sunday assumed the man was sitting. She looked back at him a little more assured. “Sunday, You’re hallucinating. Could you drink some more water for me?”

He obliged her request, once she put the straw back up to his mouth. He finished the glass.

“Good job.” She handed the cup over to the right. His tears had finally stopped. “Can you close your eyes for me?”

He listened to her. It’s his sister, Afterall.

“I’m going to explain how you got here. I want you to try to imagine what I’m saying. Can you do that?”

He nodded.

“You were sleeping in Stelle’s bed, You woke up, And then Mister Yang called us because your fever was too high. Can you remember being in Stelle’s room? What it looks like?”

“..Yes.”

“Good.” She paused, taking a deep breath. “You were carried into the bathroom, And you fell asleep the second the water touched you. The water is lukewarm, and your temperature has slowly gotten more in control. It’s been around an hour.”

“Right. I. I remember that, Now. I think.”

“Good!” She pet his hair again. “I want you to focus on whoever would be the easiest to remember. Who do you think that would be?”

“…Mister Yang?”

“That sounds perfect. I’m going to adjust you a bit, Okay?”

He nodded. And then he felt his body being shifted to the right. Four different hands touched his skin. He really wasn’t used to that.

“Whenever you think you’re ready, I want you to open your eyes.”

Sunday took a few minutes, but eventually, they opened.

Welt was smiling at him. Like he was waiting for this to happen. The emotion he could practically taste was too complicated for him to decipher. It felt Fatherly. Unknown.

Sunday sighed with relief.

“That seemed to work.” He was the one holding him up this whole time, it seemed.

“Good.” Welt’s body visibly relaxed. His face seemed wrecked with worry. “How was your nap?”

“..Uneventful.” He coughed against the tub. His back was really starting to ache. “How long do I have to be here? I..”

“Until your fever is low enough. We can check it right now, If you’d like?” 

Sunday nodded. Someone else came into view then. Red hair, gold accents…Himeko. Himeko was the one putting the thermometer into his mouth. He was good and kept his mouth shut until it beeped.

“103.8. That’s better!” She smiled at him. It reminded him of his mother. He had to avert his gaze before he cried all over again. It was hard not to when relief washed through every pore.“It’s finally going down.”

“We have to keep going just a little bit longer, Alright?” Welt was giving him a look of pure sympathy. “What’s bothering you?”

“..My back.” He tried to shift a little and yelped in pain. Now that the utter confusion had worn off, Everything was starting to burn with aches again. “I- I really can’t..”

“Would readjusting help?” 

He shook his head. 

“Do you know anything that does help?”

“I. Um.” He coughed yet again. “Massaging helps. But. As…you know. It’s- It’s complicated. I’m used to the dreamscape pools.”

“I could give it a try, If you’d like.” Himeko offered. The person he could’ve sworn was Robin had left the room. “I need to know a bit more details, Though. I’d love to help. I just don’t want to make it worse.”

“I- Could you. Give me a..few minutes?” Sunday shook his head. “I need to figure out how to..explain.”

“Take your time. I won’t be going anywhere.”

Sunday closed his eyes. He was silent for a few minutes. He put his head down against his arm, which seemed to help the spinning for a little while. Then it was worse again.

“So. Um.” He mumbled. “This is hard. I don’t r-remember what my back even looks like.”

“That’s okay.” She spoke so softly to him. It made his chest hurt. “I can fill in the dots.”

“How..much do you know about Halovian wings?”

“I know that there is variety in the amount of wings you can have. Some have none. If I remember correctly, High proficiency in attunement with the Harmony can let you disguise them and put them away.” She paused for a second. Seemingly to think. “Halovians with large back wings have added bones for support, Like..two extra segments of a spine? That connect through? I admit, I do not know too much.”

“That’s more than m-most people.” He nodded into his arms. “My-My wings were severed. Without care, not surgically. I still have those bones. My wings were- um- broken not at the base, so all of the inward bones are still..there. If- If you look..”

“That sounds terrible, Sunday.” He could hear her move a few feet. There was a hand on his shoulder. “I’m looking. Continue?”

“I haven’t- I haven’t done this in a really long time. It might take a-a bit.” He sniffed. Sunday’s halo glowed faintly as he focused, Imagining two hands at the base of his back that pushed out. It took three tries until he finally felt his attunement give way. “You-You should be able to see now. I keep them hidden…for a reason. I. I apologize. It’s disgusting. I’m disgusting.”

Sunday’s back was now fully revealed. His wings weren’t fully gone. It was like they were chopped off with a knife. It looked revolting. Unhealthy feathers going in all directions, ugly scarring everywhere, With skin barely covering jagged bones that didn’t seem to be in the right place. It looked sickly, and wrong.

“You don’t need to apologize. You’re not disgusting at all.” She did give a small gasp when she saw. Welt did too. His stomach churned inward with guilt. “I see what you mean, Now. You want me to avoid touching all of the bones?”

“No. Um. You-You really can’t” He swallowed. “There’s still muscle around them. And-and in my actual back. But..if you could avoid touching where it all connects. I’d appreciate it. It-It hurts too much otherwise.”

“I can do that.” She slowly moved her hand down his back, Seemingly to test the waters of what he could handle. “Try to relax as much as you can. Let me know if you need me to stop, or pause, Okay?”

“Okay. Th-Thank you.” He sniffed. He felt Himeko’s hands now start to slowly and oh so gently massage in between the bones. She realigned some feathers. She avoided the center of his spine while still attending to every muscle she could find. It was painful, but heavenly. He hadn’t felt this relieved since he was in the Dream. If he let out a few soft groans, Nobody commented. Occasionally Himeko would pause as someone else poured water onto him. “I’m sorry you have to-to see them. I’ve kept them hidden since Robin first saw. It’s horrific. I’m..so sorry.”

“It’s alright, Sunday. You don’t need to apologize.” Welt was rubbing circles onto his skin where he was being held. “How long has it been?”

“I was..15, I think?” Sunday sighed when Himeko slowly pushed a knot out of his muscles. “It’s hard to remember.”

“That’s a pretty long time.” Himeko spoke as she applied a little more pressure. “Would you be willing to get this looked at?”

“..If I had to, Yes.” Sunday choked on his spit, Sending him into a coughing fit. Tears were in the corner of his eyes. The guilt swirling in his stomach was getting harder and harder to ignore.

“We can figure that out. Once you’re feeling better.” A hand was rubbing his back as he coughed. “Are you up to telling us how you’re feeling, Right now?”

“My head, My chest, and my stomach really hurt” He attempted to clear his throat, which only ended up making him feel worse. “My throat..burns. My joints burn. I’m really dizzy…and nauseous. It feels like there's some weird..weight on my chest. Breathing is..difficult? I-I don’t know. I’m not good at..this. And your emotions are disgustingly hard to filter through. Wait not that it’s- I- I’m sorry, It’s just-””

“That’s a good start. It’s alright. Anything else?” Welt patted gently to end his train of thought. “It’s okay, No offense is taken. I can’t imagine I’d have a good time in your shoes right now.”

“My skin has been feeling awfully..irritated? I think I had a..a rash. Coughing makes me dizzier, and..really hurts.” He couldn’t help himself from physically melting when Himeko worked out the biggest knot in his back. “Honestly, everything really hurts. I don’t…mean to complain, Though. I’m just really…tired.”

“You sound exhausted.” Sunday finally moved his head to look back towards Welt. His coughing was starting to get worse. “You’re not bothering us, Sunday. It’s normal for you to complain. Especially at this moment.”

“Okay.” Was the only reply he could think to say. At least he replied, this time. 

“We should be able to get you back into bed, Soon. Do you feel like you could eat?”

“I…could try. I’m really nauseous. And..spinny.” His eyes blinked very slowly as if to prove his point. “I don’t know if I could even sit up.”

“We can try. It’s really important that we get some food in you.” One of the hands keeping him up left, And the thermometer is being placed in his mouth again. “I can help if you need. I'm certainly not letting you walk, Right now.”

Sunday couldn’t reply with the thermometer in his mouth, But he wouldn’t really know what to say anyway. His wings flapped twice. After a few seconds, the beeps went off yet again.

“103 Exactly.” Welt sighed with relief. “It’s still high, But I think we should be safe to get you back into bed. Dan Heng, could you fetch Sunday’s pajamas?”

“Of course.” So that's who was pouring water on him this whole time. That made sense. “I’ll be right back.”

“Himeko, Could you help me lift him out?” 

Sunday closed his eyes. She must’ve just nodded, Because he felt her hands retract from her back and instead scoop under his left arm, While Welt scooped under his right. Four hands carefully lifted him out of the bathtub, and he was placed on the ledge yet again. Welt stayed put to keep him balanced. Sunday got a bit paler in the movement.

“Are you alright?”

“Dizzy.” He groaned. “Light..headed.”

“I’ve got you. It’s alright. We’re gonna dry you off.”

The only reply he could give was a small hum of acknowledgement. He felt as a towel slowly dried off his entire body, but very very gently only patted at his back, avoiding the sensitive area entirely. Then he heard a few footsteps, which he assumed was Dan Heng’s return.

“We’re gonna get you dressed now.”

Sunday swallowed, and tried to hum, but ended up coughing instead. The hands supporting him moved to his torso, as his arms were lifted one by one as his shirt was pulled over his head. In the process a bit of pressure got put on his back, which caused him to loudly yelp in pain. His ears buzzed as his face got shades paler.

“I’m so sorry, Sunday. I didn’t realize it would be so tight. Are you okay?”

He shook his head, which only made him dizzier. Which made him groan. Which made him cough. Which made tears start to drip down his face. He had to swallow a gag again.

“I-” He tried to speak, but that made him actually gag. He took a few deep breaths before attempting again. “..Dizzy. Too much.”

He gagged again. This time his hand had to go in front of his mouth for him to not actually throw up. 

“Himeko, Grab the bucket, Please?” Welt had moved his hands so he was supporting the entirety of his weight with one hand. Then he felt his hair being gently pulled back. He felt cold plastic poke against his chest. He really didn’t want to throw up. He hated throwing up. He could hear the tears going down his cheeks falling onto the bucket. 

He felt his hair being traded into another hand, Now having Welt gently rub the top of his back. 

“I know you don’t want to, But it will help the nausea. We aren’t going anywhere. It’ll be okay.” 

“I ca-“ Sunday coughed, which immediately caused him to throw up. Repeatedly. His torso essentially convulsed as he retched into the bucket. He was sobbing. He felt disgusted, and guilty, which only made it worse.

“There you go..” Himeko’s voice sounded so…delicate. “It’s okay.”

“You’re doing great, Sunday.” The hand on his back was rubbing in circles. The hand on his chest remained steady. “It’ll be over soon.”

That only caused him to sob more. After a few minutes of constant reassurance, his body stopped defying him, and instead of repeatedly dry heaving; he was just shaking. He was panting, and he was crying; but at least the puking stopped.

He felt the bucket retract from his body and his hair being let go. Then a cup was being put against his lips. He let them tilt his head back and pour water into his mouth.

“Rinse then spit, I’ll bring your actual water over after, Okay?”

He complied. It did make him feel a little less gross. A few seconds later, his straw was placed against his lips. He took a few sips before pulling his head away.

“Let us know when we can finish getting you dressed and get you into bed.” The hand on his back didn’t stop. “Don’t rush.”

“I..think..I can.” Sunday had waited a few minutes. “I. I might pass out, Though.”

“Do you think it would happen regardless, Or should we wait?”

“Regardless... Sorry.”

“Alright. That’s okay. Thank you for the warning.” Welt readjusted, Putting Sunday’s arm around his shoulders and his arm, very carefully, around his back. “Himeko, I’ll stand him up. Can you do the rest?”

“Absolutely. Dan Heng, Could you collect everything we need from here?” He must’ve nodded. Sunday didn’t hear a reply. He felt himself standing up, and as he guessed, he immediately passed out. 

When Sunday regained consciousness, He was being held like a child. Again. He was wearing pants now, at least. Less humiliating that way.

“Thank you.” He mumbled so quietly it could’ve been a whisper.

“I’m happy to help.” Welt was placing him into the bed. The sheets seem to have been replaced. He was tucked back in under the blankets. “Can you eat?”

“Not..yet.” He shook his head. He slowly reached over and grabbed his phone, placing it into his lap. “In a bit.”

“That's alright. I’ll get it heated up now.” A reassuring hand was temporarily placed on his shoulder, and then Welt walked away. Sunday searched the room now. Everybody, barring the conductor, was here.

Including March 7th. Who was walking up to him, and sitting on the edge of the bed.

“Hey..” Her body posture was awkward. Her hands were fidgeting in her lap. She looked like she was trying to figure out what to say. “How’s your head?”

“It hurts. But, I’m no longer hallucinating, I don’t think.”

“That’s good!” She paused. Like there was a sentence stuck in her throat. “That must’ve been..scary.”

“I’ve experienced worse.” She looked sad at that response. He shook his head. He took a deep breath. “I thought you were Robin, Didn’t I?”

He proposed a question, but he already knew the answer. March and her were always kindred spirits, to him.

“..Yeah.” She visibly relaxed. “I didn’t mind- I don’t mind. I just..wanted to make sure you were okay. I was worried I made it worse..”

“You didn’t. Trust me.” His voice was still rough. Cracking every other word. “I’m sorry. For what it’s worth. I-I can’t imagine that being..comfortable. It’s hard to explain the..reasoning.”

“Honestly? It was..kinda flattering.” She chuckled. “I mean, I’ve been called a lot of things. But an international star? My favorite artist? Your beloved sister? There are a lot of worse things, I’ll tell ya.”

“I..I see.” He looked down at his hands. “I’m relieved to hear that.”

“I don’t want you to feel bad about it.” She turned her head towards him. He, albeit slowly, returned her gaze. “That's why I came over. I just didn’t know how to say it.”

“Thank you, Miss March.” 

“If you need anything, Let me know, Okay?” She stood up, ruffling Sunday’s hair in the process. “I’m a pretty good distraction, I'd say.”

“I’ll. Keep it in mind.”

“I like the wings.” She smiled. “The new ones. They suit you.”

With that, She walked away. Her words paid a soft compliment. One that he didn’t think she knew the gravity of. The significance. Or perhaps she did. She paused to speak to Himeko briefly, and then headed out the door. Sunday took the time to examine what everyone was doing. He really wanted to text Robin, But..it felt a little embarrassing, Still. So this would do.

Stelle seemed to be putting away some laundry, Dan Heng was on the phone, And Himeko was refilling his water and refreshing the bowl for the washcloth. Makes sense that he can’t be free of that yet. Welt was returning to his side. Placing the hot bowl of soup on the nightstand.

“It’s ready. It’ll be a few minutes before it's cool enough for you to eat.” He pulled the chair back to the side of the bed, and sat down. “Everyone should be heading out in a few minutes. Well, Besides me. I don’t think it's safe to leave you alone completely.”

“Okay.” He spun his thumbs around each other. He missed his gloves. “I’m sorry for coughing on you. Earlier. I wasn’t really..cognizant. Miss Himeko seemed upset by it.”

“You don’t need to apologize for that, Sunday. It’s quite alright.” He shook his head. “Himeko wasn’t upset about you coughing, Either. You were coughing up blood. That's why she looked upset. She was worried. As was I.”

“..Oh.” Now that it was mentioned, Sunday could spot the blood on Welt’s jacket. He felt worse. His wings fluttered. Himeko was now talking to Dan Heng, and Stelle left the room without saying anything. He didn’t mind. He couldn’t take his eyes away from the stain. “I see.”

“It’ll come out.” He seemed to notice his gaze. Which caused Sunday to look back at him. “I’ve gotten a lot worse on this jacket.”

Sunday nodded. He took a few deep breaths. Himeko returned to his side, This time. The bowl was placed next to his soup.

“Dan Heng is currently on the phone with our doctor. Stelle was before. He should be stopping by in a few hours. He isn’t the most well versed about Halovian’s specifically, So things will be a little awkward.” She leaned over and put a gentle hand on his chest, looking him in the eyes. “I’m glad you’re okay, Sunday. Thank you for trusting me with your back. I know that was important to you. I’m so sorry about the shirt.”

“Thank you, Miss Himeko. It’s alright.” Sunday had to swallow down his immediate desire to cry. He knew he was a crybaby, But it was starting to become a bit much. If she noticed his voice warble, or his eyes water, she didn’t comment. It was hard to handle the feeling of pure regret for hurting him. “I..don’t know what else to say.”

“That’s fine. I don’t mind.” She gave him a graceful smile. Patting his chest before she stood back up. “We’re leaving now. You know how to reach us.”

He nodded, and watched as Dan Heng and Himeko walked out of the room, Shutting the door behind them. Then there were two.

Sunday, Quite honestly, Would like to have ten minutes of alone time. He already felt overwhelmingly guilty, He already felt like a burden, and he desperately needed to get his emotions out of his system. He wanted to call Robin and sob. He wanted to hide under the covers. He wanted to die, if he had to be honest. He just needed to get his thoughts out of his head, desperately, and he really did not want to burden Mister Yang with that yet again. He was just so overwhelmed. He didn’t know what to do. He couldn’t really do anything. He felt frozen and stuck.

“Sunday, Are you alright?” Welt seems to have a really good ability to guess when he’s upset. Or, Sunday is a lot more obvious than he thinks. Or maybe he just cares. “It’d be understandable if you’re overwhelmed. A lot happened very fast. I’m sorry that you didn’t get much of a breather.”

“Overwhelmed is..an understatement.” Sunday mumbled. “I don’t want to seem ungrateful. I don’t want to complain. I..I just..”

He took a deep breath.

“Robin says I have a bit of a..guilt problem. I don’t disagree.” He swallowed. “My head is just..a mess.”

“I picked up on that.” Welt leaned forward. “Do you want to talk about it? Getting the thoughts out of your head will make it easier.”

He was silent for a minute.

“It’s really nice. Being cared for. Doted on.” Sunday brought up his knees to his chest and leaned forward. “It reminds me of my Mother. I don’t even remember what her face looks like. Only her wings. Her jewelry. My earrings are from her.”

Welt was silent. Just looking at him with an attentful look. He was listening.

“I have few memories of her. Robin has even less.” He shook his head. “We used to only be able to fall asleep to her lullaby. We didn’t think to write it down. Record it. We forgot it before we even had the thought. Robin cried when we realized. I just..blamed myself.”

Before Sunday could regret it, he patted the bed next to him. An open invitation. He couldn’t say why he did. It just felt right.

“I don’t remember myself getting sick. Or being cared for..like that, even by her.” He watched as Welt stood up, grabbed the bowl of soup, walked around the bed, and sat down. He placed the soup in front of the window. He had accepted the invitation. “The association is still there, I suppose.”

“I know a lot about grief.” Welt spoke softly, crossing his legs. “It surprises you.”

“It does. It..honestly makes me feel better, Now. Knowing she still has influence on me. That I can find her in places besides my sister.” He sighed. “It’s sad it took me this long to discover this piece of her. It’s disgusting that my Father has tarnished it.”

“He hasn’t tarnished it.” Welt spoke with confidence, gesturing with one hand. “You can clean it away. Slowly.”

“Would you..be willing to listen to a story?” He moved his head to face Welt entirely, cheek leaning against his knee. “It’s not a fun one.”

“Absolutely.” Welt nodded. He reached behind him and grabbed the bowl, Putting the spoon in his hand. “I don’t want you to run yourself dry. Would you be willing to eat a little, first?”

“Sure.” He slowly put his legs back down. “My body is quite weak. I won’t-”

He stopped talking because there was already a spoonful in front of his mouth. He ate it. It was plain, but nice. He ate half of the bowl, with breaks to drink water. So far his stomach wasn’t rejecting it yet. He refused any more food, though. Shook his head when Welt tried to offer.

“That’s alright.” He put the spoon in the bowl and returned it to the window. “You wanted to tell me a story?”

‘Right.” Sunday took a deep breath. “I’ll be honest. I’ve never told it before. I just..can’t stop thinking about it.”

“I see.” Welt nodded. “Take your time.”

“When I was around 15, I got sick. Really sick. I missed my morning practice with Robin, which I wasn’t allowed to be doing in the first place, So she got worried. She found me in bed, with a fever, choking on my own vomit. I almost died. She’s only a few hours younger than me, So as you can imagine, She was terrified.” He put his head back down. Looked at his hands. His eyes were getting more and more blown out every time he seemed to get upset. “She barely managed to get me to the bathroom herself. She was able to get me breathing again. She was able to get me to drink some water. She was able to clean me up. But there was already a precedent of punishment. We were not allowed to get sick. We were not allowed to mess up our routines. Inconveniencing Father, or showing as nothing but his perfect children, was never allowed. We had only ever gotten small colds, or coughs until then. I always took care of Robin in face of the punishment. I would take both of our punishments myself. Always, if I could. She didn’t think it would be too bad. She was convinced I was going to die, so..”

Sunday took a break to cough. He drank some water afterwards.

“She found the nearest Oak Family member and got me rushed to the emergency room. We had a banquet planned for that night. And she had not only indisposed myself, and herself; but four different staff members.” Sunday felt a few tears go down his cheeks. “Father wasn’t pleased. He had never been so angry before. He found out when we didn’t show up.”


He took a few deep breaths. This was the hard part.

“I woke up to him, inhabiting his favorite Oak Family body, entering the hospital room with five guards. Robin was grabbed by one, So hard her arms bruised, and that..freaked me out. I was grabbed too. I didn’t get discharged, I was just..taken. We were shoved into the car. He wouldn’t say anything. He didn’t say anything. Not until we were dragged home, and thrown into the kitchen.” He couldn’t stop his shoulders from shaking. Maybe talking about it bothered him more than he thought it would. He swallowed his emotions down. “As punishment, Robin was going to lose her wings. The wings that were identical to our mothers. The wings we would both stay up at night pretending that they were our mothers, as we put them around ourselves. My punishment was going to be our typical sickness punishment..A beating for every single event, and no meals until I was better. I don’t know how I had the energy, But..I spoke up.”

A sob slipped out of his mouth.

“I said she did nothing wrong. I asked what he thought he was doing. That it was my fault. That it would never happen again. The guard was ordered to slam my head into the wall. He did. I didn’t stop. Robin screamed for me to stop, and she was thrown against the floor. She passed out.” He coughed. He could feel Welt’s eyes on him. He was doing everything he could to not feel every single emotion going through his body. “I told my Father that if someone's wings had to go they should be mine. He agreed. I was shoved onto the ground, Two of the body guards pulled out knives. One kept me on the ground. Two started beating my wings into the ground. They broke the bones until they could cut through. Then they did. I was told that if I passed out Robin would get the punishment anyways. So I stayed awake. I think some part of me thought he was bluffing at first.”

He sniffed. His hands anxiously fidgeted against his arms. 

“Once it was done, I was thrown into my room. I was crudely bandaged. I was told that..it wouldn’t happen again, if I followed the Order. That the Order was the only path to stop the cruel suffering for everyone. The only possible way a failure like me could achieve our dream.” He couldn’t stop his emotions anymore. He sobbed as he spoke. Welt’s feeling of protection and rage and pure grief filled every artery vein and nerve. “Robin came into my room the second she woke up. The last time my wings were ever touched, was then. She said she hated me. She asked why I would do that. She didn’t like it when I weakly replied that I couldn’t let her go through that. That I couldn’t bear to say goodbye to our mothers wings again. She asked how I could do that to her if I couldn’t handle it. Then she just sobbed. She held my wings in her hands, and she sobbed. I hid them away once she went to bed. I never let her see them again. I never took them out again. Afterwards I was almost always in the dream. I was working for the Oak Family by then.”

“Can I touch you?” Was the only reply he got. He nodded.

He was pulled into Welt’s chest, being hugged yet again. A hand was on the back of his neck. It seemed less..for Sunday this time. It was mutual. Appreciated from both ends. He didn’t blame him. It's a rough story.

“Thank you for trusting me with that.” He rubbed Sunday’s back. He just quietly cried into his chest. “That sounds horrific. I cannot imagine what going through it was like. I’m..so sorry, Sunday. I gather today has been very triggering. If there is anything we can avoid, We will.”

“Honestly..You’ve been making it better. You..Everyone..haven’t been the upsetting part.” He sniffed. “I don’t know how to explain it. I feel a bit stupid even talking about it.’

“I’m happy you did. If that helps.” He felt Welt’s thumb rub against the base of his neck. “Talking about things of that nature is always difficult. Conflicting. I cannot imagine it was easy.”

“Nothing is.” He spoke like it was fact. “But it..gives you good insight. Robin told me that I should open up more, so really it wasn’t my idea. I’m nothing without her.”

“Do you base most of your value about yourself on others?”

“I suppose.” He sighed. “It’s hard not to.”

“I get that.” He got a soft squeeze. Incredibly gentle. “You are something without her. You just need help finding who you could actually be. Instead of what you’ve been molded into being.”

“Thank you.” He shook his head. “I still don’t get it, to...be honest.”

“I’m not too surprised by that.” Welt chuckled softly. “Thank you again, Sunday. If you ever need or want to talk more, I am always happy to listen.”

“I’ll keep it in mind.” He coughed. “My..My throat really hurts.”

“You did just talk a lot. Rest your voice.” Welt gave a few sympathetic pats. “If you want to lay back down, Just poke me, Alright?”

Sunday nodded. But he didn’t poke. In fact, After all of the crying, exhaustion, and sickness of today; He ended up falling asleep the second he closed his eyes. Welt moved his phone to the nightstand, He placed a washcloth on his head, And then Sunday was tucked into the bed, and laid down to rest.

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--


Sunday was woken up by a hand shaking his shoulder. It was gentle, and seemed to be trying to not actually bother him. The doctor was there. The visit was fairly quick. He had a couple of tests done, his blood was drawn, and then he was out. It seemed that the crew already handled telling him a lot of his symptoms. He didn’t even have to get out of bed. The most moving he did was to let the doctor look at some of the rashes that were scattered across his skin. He was given some fever reducers. There was ointment for his skin. He was given an I.V. Otherwise, they were waiting to hear back. The doctors theory was that it's a common ailment for another world; And Sunday, without much of an immune system, is pretty susceptible. He was very worried about a lot of things, and insisted they contact another doctor to properly check him up soon. His throat was scratched to hell, so he was demanded to try to rest it for the rest of the day.

He was told to eat more. Drink more. Sleep more. All expected. Welt had him eat the rest of the soup while he was awake. Then he was able to sleep again. So he did. It took a few minutes, but he peacefully drifted off to sleep.

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

This time Sunday woke up naturally. He slowly sat up in bed to see that he was alone, Although there was evidence that Welt was planning to return on the couch nearby. He put the washcloth back into the bowl, and fetched his phone. It was late in the afternoon. Oh! He missed some texts from Robin!

-10:38 AM-

Robin: Himeko said that your fever got dangerously high :(

Robin: She said you’re sleeping and that the doctor would be by soon. I can imagine what's going on in your head. Text me back when you can, Okay?

-1:05 PM-

Robin: I am officially going to be visiting tomorrow! I could only spare a few hours.

Robin: I got some details about earlier. I love you. I’m around whenever you want to call!

-4:45 PM-

-Sunday has come online.-

Sunday: I’m sorry it took so long for me to get back to you. I love you

Sunday: I have been sleeping

Sunday: It’s been a really long day

Sunday: I don’t think I can call. My throat really hurts. I was told I need to rest it.

Robin: I’m just relieved to hear from you.

Robin: Are you okay? How are you feeling?

Sunday: I really miss you

Sunday: So much has happened

Sunday: I don’t really know where to start. It’ll take a while to explain

Sunday: I’m feeling a lot better right now. Sickness wise

Sunday: Probably due to the medicine and the I.V drip

Robin: I’m happy to hear that

Robin: You’ve got me as long as you need. It doesn’t matter if it makes much sense

Robin: I’m really worried, Sunday. I’d rather hear what happened from you :( 

Sunday: Okay well

Sunday: You’ll be happy about this part. I did in fact talk to Mister Yang about what you said I should

Sunday: Although I was quite feverish? I don’t know how coherent I was.

Sunday: You were right. He didn’t hate me or anything. Said it was good for me to communicate

Sunday: Right after that talk is when my fever spiked. Or maybe it was already that high and it just started to fuck with me

Sunday: I couldn’t hear anyone and I apparently coughed up blood. I was just really out of it

Sunday: And they cooled me down with a cold water bath

Sunday: So I in fact fell asleep the second the water touched me

Robin: I’m honestly surprised you did that so fast

Sunday: Okay well I did skip a detail

Sunday: I had a nightmare about my wings

Sunday: He was there when I was doing my normal. Nightmare habits

Robin: Oh so you were a sobbing mess and admitted it mostly out of panic and desperation (=_=")

Sunday: Yes.

Robin: I don’t know what I expected. I’m proud of you anyway

Sunday: Thank you.

Sunday: When I woke up I was hallucinating

Sunday: I thought I was in our childhood bathroom

Sunday: I thought Miss March was you

Sunday: I don’t think i need to explain why

Robin: Oh, Sunday :(

Robin: I got told about that. It’s why I was so worried

Sunday: March actually got me out of it

Sunday: I uh. Uncovered my wings?

Robin: Really?

Sunday: My back really hurt. They were trying to help me stay in the bathtub until it was safe for me to not be

Sunday: So Miss Himeko offered to massage it when I said that's typically what helps

Sunday: I still feel really bad about it. I think it was a large reason why I got sick later on

Sunday: But I did it. I still have them out, technically. I just don’t have the energy to put them back right now. Miss Himeko and Mister Yang said they would organize for them to be looked at, Once I’m not sick. Apparently I’m a walking health concern and need expert opinions.

Robin: I’m kinda in shock over that

Robin: To be honest

Robin: It’s been…so long. I’m so proud of you.

Sunday: Thinking about it for too long makes me shake.

Sunday: So I’m continuing. And changing the topic.

Sunday: I finally got to go back to bed

Sunday: March and I talked and I made sure she wasn't uncomfortable and apologized

Sunday: I was either very obviously overwhelmed and internally panicking or Mister Yang cared enough to ask if I was okay.

Sunday: He even apologized for everything happening. Offered to let me talk

Sunday: And I did. Talked about Mother. Being cared for makes me think of her, A lot.

Sunday: And I hit a point where talking around the thing bothering me was making me feel worse and worse

Sunday: So I told him the full story about my wings.

Robin: Full story? Details and all?

Sunday: Details and all.

Robin: Holy shit

Robin: I’m going to say I’m proud of you again

Robin: I’m really proud of you

Robin: That is an enormous step

Sunday: Yeah. It. Just. Happened?

Sunday: It helped a lot

Sunday: Ever since I feel a lot. Lighter

Sunday: Not fully but.

Robin: That's really good, Sunday.

Robin: I was so worried, but..this has turned out pretty good for you.

Robin: I’m really sorry, though. I wish I could’ve been there.

Sunday: You will be tomorrow. I am very happy about the confirmation.

Sunday: I miss you a lot

Sunday: Seeing how things are going I think I will be stuck to bedrest tomorrow. In case that bothers you

Robin: Oh. You are. ᵔ ᵕ ᵔ

Robin: If they don’t enforce it I’ll tell them to

Sunday: Okay maybe I shouldn’t have said anything

Sunday: I’ve gotten a good amount of sleep. More than I have really since leaving Penacony

Sunday: Oh and uh

Sunday: I think I fell asleep in Mister Yang’s arms?

Sunday: Like. In the bed. Not in when he was holding me up in the water.

Sunday: Last I remember I was hugging him after telling him the full story

Sunday: Which he was. Very kind about. He hugged me and it felt like it wasn’t just to comfort me

Sunday: I feel very delusional

Sunday: I’ve gotten a lot of “Thank you for trusting me”s

Sunday: I believe it should be the other way around

Sunday: I don’t know. I’m tired. Everything is still pretty

Sunday: Hazy

Robin: He’s a good influence on you

Sunday: He is very caring

Robin: You are someone who desperately needs caring

Sunday: Fair enough

Robin: I mean it. You deserve it

Robin: You’ve spent most of our lives protecting me and caring for me no matter what. It’s about time you accept it back, even if it's not from me.

Robin: Not saying you haven’t grown a lot in that regard. You have. But..

Robin: Letting just me in after so many years..

Robin: You deserve more. An actual support system. An actual home.

Sunday: Thank you, Sister.

Sunday: I love you

Robin: I love you too

Sunday: You do have a point

Sunday: I’m just wrapping my head around it still

Robin: I know

Robin: Just don’t be so focused on figuring it out that you don’t accept it

Robin: Or learn how to grow it

Sunday: I’ll try my best

Robin: I know you will

Robin: You always do

Sunday: Can we talk about literally anything else

Robin: Of course

Sunday: Okay I don’t actually have any ideas

Sunday: Has your day been okay?

Sunday: I hope I haven’t been too distracting

Robin: You haven’t been

Robin: It’s just been meetings all day. Some for Penacony and some for my upcoming album

Robin: As in, I want to delay it

Sunday: Delay it?

Robin: Yeah..I don’t know. It doesn’t feel right yet.

Robin: It’s fine. I got what I wanted. Not the full timeline, but at least a bit more time

Sunday: You’ve always been picky with your finished product

Robin: I wonder why. Almost like it runs in the family..

Sunday: Ah, something like that.

Sunday: I’m glad it hasn't been too bad.

Robin: It hasn’t.

Sunday: My phone is making me dizzy again

Sunday: So I believe that is my sign to be done texting

Robin: That's fine! I figured you’d have to go soon

Robin: I love you. Rest up ₊˚⊹♡

Sunday: I love you too.  ˗ˋˏ ♡ ˎˊ˗

-Sunday has gone offline.-

Sunday plugged his phone in, and placed it back on the nightstand. He grabbed the washcloth and returned it back to his own forehead, and then laid back down. He closed his eyes. Then he tried to sleep. Around 15 minutes later he heard Welt re-enter the room. He felt the cloth be replaced yet again. Then, like his body was waiting for someone else to be around, he fell asleep yet again.

Chapter Text

Sunday woke up feeling like his stomach was about to explode. He couldn’t even bother to remove the washcloth properly, or check if someone was with him; he just immediately stood up and booked it to the bathroom. He essentially collapsed to his knees and slid to the toilet. He threw up three times back to back before he could catch a breather, his knuckles holding onto porcelain with a white tight grip. His lungs felt tight,  His skin felt frigid and raw, And he most certainly bruised his knees to hell.

He always hated throwing up. His body filled with pure dread and panic everytime he even felt the saliva build in his mouth. It never failed to make him terrified he was about to die. It never failed to make him feel like he was going to suffocate again. He coughed to try to get rid of the sensation, but that just made him throw up all over again. He put his forehead against the seat once he could stop, and panted. He just needed to breathe. It would subside. He just needed to breathe.

Sunday did really try to breathe. It did not work. One of his hands moved to scratch at his throat, His nails digging into his skin hard enough for it to immediately turn red and irritated. He had to admit; while being cared for was overwhelming, it did make throwing up a lot less terrifying. Maybe that was because of Robin saving him. He wasn’t quite sure. There was something, and whatever he was, He missed it. It felt strange. To crave affections he had been denied for so long. He missed the reassurance, He missed his back being rubbed, He missed being told he was safe . He certainly didn’t feel like he was.

The more time that passed the more paranoid he was getting. Every second that went by his skin crawled more and more. He was trembling at this point, Unable to remove his hand from his throat. He wouldn’t be surprised if he was bleeding at this point. He desperately needed something to give. He just wasn’t quite sure what could. He didn’t notice he was crying until his face felt cold.

Robin’s texts from last night echoed in his head.
‘Don’t be so focused on figuring it out that you don’t accept it.’
Does this count? Does his desperation in this moment make the action selfish? Is he supposed to be selfish? Is this sin? Should he even believe in sin anymore? Is he supposed to give in and let himself die?

Before he could psych himself out, He decided to trust his sister. The worst that could happen is that no one cares. Which would hurt, but..he was starting to get the message that wouldn’t be the case. He wasn’t sure how loud he could speak, And his phone was not on him, So he mustered all of the energy he could. He knew regardless he’d throw up again. This way there's a chance someone can come help.

“Is…anyone there?” Sunday coughed, and had to swallow to not throw up immediately. All of his energy only mustered up a half-shout. Anyone outside of the room wouldn’t have been able to hear. “Please, I-”

Sunday threw up again. This time it wasn’t stopping. He wouldn’t exactly classify this as throwing up anymore; Moreso dry heaving. He felt like he was choking. His hand scratched harder, His entire esophagus burned, He felt tears starting to pool on his legs. Just when he thought his call went unanswered, He heard someone rushing towards him and a hand on his back.

“I’m here, I’m here.” Welt was kneeling next to him. One of his hands gently pulled Sunday’s hand away from his throat. “It’s okay. I’ve got you.” 

Sunday sobbed, But for once it was out of relief . He couldn’t die now. He couldn’t choke. He couldn’t asphyxiate. It was like a bucket of smooth water got poured over him. He asked for help and someone actually did. 

He didn’t care that he felt Welt’s worry like a bag of bricks. He was just happy he was there.

After around ten minutes, With continuous reassurance and Sunday slowly calming, his stomach no longer felt like a storm. He could breathe. He could move. He could think. He slowly lifted himself up until he was sitting upright. He took a deep breath and turned his head to face Welt.

“Thank you, I..” He coughed. He was delighted when he didn’t feel like he was going to throw up again because of it. His voice was more hoarse than yesterday, But his speech had improved.“I hate throwing up alone. I hope I didn’t disturb you.”

“You didn’t. I’m happy you called for me.” Welt stood up and fetched a washcloth, wetting it then returning to Sunday’s side. He wiped his face off. And his hands. “Lets have you rinse your mouth, Alright? Can you stand at the sink or should I grab a cup?”

“A cup would be nice.” Sunday shook his head. “I fell on my knees…pretty hard.”

“I’ll be right back.” Welt disappeared into the bedroom for a minute and returned with a glass half full of water. Sunday rinsed his mouth and spit into the toilet. Then he flushed it away. “Do you want to try to walk, Or should I carry you back to bed?”

“I’d..like to walk.”

He offered his hand. He accepted. He was slowly raised until he was standing. His knees really hurt now, But Welt was carrying half of his weight. They slowly walked Sunday back to the bed, with an occasional yelp, Until he was sat down.

“Can you show me your knees?” Welt sat down in the chair. “It sounds like they hurt. I just want to check the damage.”

“Sure.” Sunday pulled up his pajama pants until his knees showed. They were already purple. They both winced in unison. “I bruise easily, but..I did not think it was that bad.”

“I don’t think you'd blame me if I said you aren’t allowed to walk alone until that is either checked up on or reasonably healed?”

“No. I would not.” Sunday chuckled. “Walking really hurts. Probably good for me?”

“I’d say so.” Welt sighed, Leaning back in the chair. “How are you feeling? You seem like you’re doing a bit better.”

“I think I am. Sleep has helped significantly.” Sunday sat back in the bed, rearranging the pillows to support his back and pulling the blankets up. He softly winced when they brushed over his knees. “I still feel terrible, I just feel a bit more..myself. I suppose.”

“Barely sleeping for a week and a half will make you feel a bit different.” Welt had a decent amount of amusement in his tone. Sunday felt the concern and relief prickle throughout his scalp. “Do you think it would hurt too much to ice the bruises?”

“It shouldn’t. It would be nice if they were a little less swollen, To be honest.” Sunday’s wings flapped twice. He reached over and grabbed his phone. He slept until 10am. Roughly. Which was nice. His nose scrunched up slightly. “It feels weird.”

“We’ll ice them then.” Welt chuckled a little, a small endearing smile evident on his face. “Think you can eat?”

“I will need to go slowly, but yes.” Sunday paused to cough into his elbow. “Could I..have some of your tea? If it’s not a bother?”

“Absolutely. Any requests for food?” He gestured with one hand. “I’d have to leave you alone for a while. I make that blend myself.”

“Soup would be nice. Not..the same soup, if that's alright? It tasted fine. I just don’t want to eat something I’ve thrown up…recently.” He nodded. “I’ll be fine. If I get horrifically bothered I can bug someone else.”

“I’ll see what I can do.” Welt ruffled Sunday’s hair and stood up. His face was plain affectionate, Like he was beaming just from the concept of him reaching out on his own. Asking for help. Stating preferences, and things to avoid. Sunday didn’t quite understand the expression. But he was getting there. “I’ll send someone up with the ice packs, I want to try to find some of our softer sets; If I fail, I will have March make some. Otherwise I’ll be back in around an hour. I’m gonna refill your water before I leave, but do you want anything else?”

“I don’t think so. Thank you, Mister Yang.” 

“Happily.” Welt refilled Sunday’s water to the brim and then left. He gave a smile and a wave as he closed the door behind him.

That left Sunday alone again. He opened his phone to a good morning text from Robin, which he returned, But it also stated she would be busy until she can actually get to the Express. So that avenue of communication is dead, For now. At least she would be visiting in a few hours.

He would doodle in his journal, but he’s far too lethargic for that. He’s read all the books downloaded on his phone, with no way to access anymore. He didn’t have a game downloaded, And even if he tried to find one, He wouldn’t exactly know what to look for. 

Very quickly, Now that he wasn’t so exhausted he couldn’t think clearly, He was bored . He couldn’t clean, He couldn’t do anything. He couldn’t even walk. He was very fortunate for March 7th to walk through the door the moment she did.

“Hey, You do look better!” March smiled, walking over with two different ziplocks full of soft ice. After Sunday accepted them, she proudly put her hands on her hips. “Mister Yang couldn’t find our nice ice packs, So here I am! Six Phased Ice pack edition!”

“Thank you, Miss March.” Sunday let out a soft laugh, holding the odd ice packs in his hand while he pulled the blankets off again. 

“Can I see? He said your knees were pretty banged up.” Sunday’s response was to simply show her. She winced. “Yeah that looks pretty bad. I understand the want for some special ice packs.”

“I thank you for your service.” He gingerly placed the ice packs on his knees, Blowing out sharp air in immediate response. After a few seconds it already felt a little better, so he pulled the blanket back up. “That feels better.”

“Happy to help!” March smiled, Watching as the infamous Trashcake finally hopped onto the bed to yearn for Sunday’s attention. The cake curled up in his lap and purred as he softly pet his head. “You need anything before I boogie to let you rest?”

“Actually?” Sunday raised one hand, then paused. He returned his hand to his lap. He needed to trust his sister. “I’m fairly bored. Is that..distraction offer still available? I can text Miss Stelle for advice with the TV, If not.”

“Heck yeah it is!” She looked ecstatic that he asked. “Give me five minutes. I got you.”

“Okay..?” 

March ran out of the room faster than he could process what she said. When she returned a short few minutes later, She had Stelle and Dan Heng in tow, Carrying a few different things with them. They looked..excited?

“Sunny!” 

“You look like you feel better.”

“I have grabbed my reinforcements!”

“Stelle, Again, Please stop calling me that.” Sunday groaned, Seeming to not notice his lack of honorific. “I do feel better, Yes. Sleeping works wonders. I can actually think today.”

The three of them shared a look, and seemingly decided to not say anything.

“Okay! Well!” March hopped onto the foot of the bed, and Stelle moved to sit on the other side. Dan Heng took the chair Welt had been using. “I’m sure you noticed us talking all secret like yesterday.”

“Not how I would phrase it..” Mumbled Dan Heng, who got a stuffed animal thrown at his face. 

“Shut!” March turned her attention back to Sunday. “We wanted to plan something to do with you. If you asked. It’s kinda a tradition whenever us three get sick now. We wanted you to ask so we could include you. So!”

“We have some movies, I asked Robin for some of your favorites. I figured you’d be too wiped to actually physically do anything; But I have a few games we can set up if I’m wrong.” Stelle gave him a soft smirk. She also leaned over to give Trashcake a few pets. “I have a really good pirated library of shows, Too. But I don’t know your favorites there.”

“I didn’t actually prepare anything. But, I know you like to read, So I thought I’d offer to hook your phone up directly to the data bank?” Dan Heng recovered very quickly from the stuffed animal transgression. He looked like he was resisting the urge to throw it right back. Sunday was curious about that. “I have a huge library of books there. Mister Yang collects a lot of manga, if that’s your thing. I can show you how to sort it by genre. I also have a large collection of physical books. If you want to give me a general take on what you enjoy reading, I can bring you some recommendations.”

“I just brought some hair care and skin care. I’m sure being sick has you feeling gross. It always makes me break out really bad, So I thought it’d be nice!” March showed off her array of face masks and similar things. “I’ve also been itching to braid your hair…admittedly.”

“It does look really soft…”

“Stelle, No! I called dibs first.”

March threw a pillow at Stelle, Which caused Stelle to throw it right back. They are basically just hitting each other with everything soft nearby. So that’s why Dan Heng didn’t retaliate.

Sunday laughed. A laugh that he hasn’t given in a long while. His eyes closed, so he missed all three of them sharing a look with each other again. 

“Thank you. That’s incredibly kind.” He smiled, his wings all happily flapping for a few seconds. “I’d love the data bank on my phone, The skin and hair care sounds wonderful , and I’d deeply enjoy a movie or a show. I’m not particularly picky.”

“What’s your take on really terrible reality TV?” Stelle asked, leaning behind the bed to fetch her remote. She pressed a button and her television lowered from the ceiling. What the hell kind of budget did Stelle have for this room?

“I produced a lot of it.” 

“That makes sense.”

“Really?”

“Does that mean I can find your credits out there? I could make a game out of it..”

“I was a large member in the Oak Family since I was 15. Penacony is known for its television, and reality television is the cheapest to produce with the highest reward. It was always the easiest route, Especially if you didn’t have much time to spare.” Sunday shrugged, chuckling slightly. “If you could find a show I produced, Yes you’d find my name. I believe I have a page on some site somewhere. I don’t mind watching it, Though. I quite enjoy it, Occasionally.”

“Yes!” Stelle immediately dug into her shows, pulling up one of her personal favorites; A show about a bunch of people on a ship who should not be working on a ship. She hit a random season. 

“Here, Give me your phone. I can start the download.” Sunday just pointed to the nightstand, and Dan Heng grabbed it quickly.

“I’m making you scooch forward, a bit.” March gestured him forward with her hands after getting up off the bed, so he slowly moved downward. Trashcake wasn’t happy, but he dealt. March hopped to the head of the bed and placed a pillow down in front of her alongside one in her lap. “I’m gonna do your hair, and then you’ll lay down, Okay? If it gets too much we can abandon the braid.”

Sunday nodded. He sat as still as he could while March french braided his hair, with a very proud look on her face. Stelle and March kept complaining about people on the show, Sunday kept making comments with genuine insight into the production process, and Dan Heng softly chuckled whenever anything was extremely amusing. He even made jabs with the two, Occasionally. It was nice. Peaceful.

“Okay! Braid is done. You can lay back now, I know you’re probably getting pretty tired.” Sunday leaned back to be delighted by the cushion. If he sighed, they didn’t comment. “How sensitive is your skin? Is there anything I should avoid?”

“If you exfoliate you need to be gentle, Anything repetitive will cause my skin to react. I largely moisturize and use cleansing masks?” Sunday pushed all of his wings to lay flat, to avoid anything getting on them. “I request that my wings don’t get any product on them. It will drive me crazy. If you need, I can attune them away. It will wipe me out for a while though. I might pass out from it. Oh and, My neck really hurts? Avoid touching there. I haven’t actually looked, but I imagine it doesn’t look great.”

“I can do that. No weird mind magic necessary!” March smiled down at him. She did gently pull his shirt collar down to look, and gave a soft wince. “Actually, We might want to bandage this first.”

Dan Heng moved to look, Then gave a similar reaction. 

“I can bandage it. Let me grab Stelle’s first aid kit.”

“What happened, Sunny?”

March definitely felt his body freeze, but she didn’t comment. In fact, she looked away. He took a deep breath. He could be normal. 

“I have some problems with throwing up. Especially alone.” His wings twitched in their positions. “I apologize. It’s a bit of a long explanation. One that I don’t necessarily want to get into right now? Also, Seriously? Again? ”

“That’s okay!” Stelle and March spoke just slightly off unison. 

“If there’s anything we can do to help, Just let us know.” March looked back at him, giving a reassuring smile. “Although, I will likely grab anyone else for you. I don’t handle throwing up too well either.”

“I just wanted to make sure a new rash didn’t show up or something. You don’t have to apologize.”

“Thank you.” 

Dan Heng returned, now putting one leg on the side of the bed so he could lean over him, placing the kit on the bed. He opened it and took out the disinfectant.

“This will sting. You will want to prepare.”

“It’s pretty bad..” March held out her hand in case Sunday wanted to hold on. He decided to trust her word and do so.  Then he nodded.

Dan Heng, as quickly as he could manage, disinfected the front of Sunday’s neck. There were multiple scabs, and some dried blood, so he had to go through multiple times. They were not lying. It was miserable . He clenched March’s hand and grimaced, his wings twitching while he barely managed to keep them from pushing his hand away. After a minute, it was over, and the sigh of relief was loud.

“That was terrible. I appreciate the warning.” Sunday let go of March’s hand, returning it to petting Trashcake. “Thank you.”

“Of course!”

“This will be the nicer part.” Dan Heng applied soothing ointment that also helped healing. Sunday could’ve sworn he saw his ears morph into being more pointy and a pair of horns appear on his head, but after a moment of pure relief, He opened his eyes to see nothing. He must’ve looked confused, Because Stelle and March giggled.

“You haven’t seen Danny’s actual Vidyadhara form, Have you?” March snickered. “You aren’t the only one hiding secret body parts.”

“He has a tail, Too.” Dan Heng rolled his eyes at that. 

“Bailu taught me some healing techniques. I can’t use them without my Imbibitor Lunae form.” He sighed. He also applied gauze across Sunday’s neck, and pulled out some skin safe medical tape. “It’s nothing special. A story for another day.”

Sunday did not need to look. He knew the stare the other two were getting. 

“Thank you. Apologies for my reaction. I knew you had another form, I just hadn’t actually seen it.” 

“It’s fine. You're not the one who would need to apologize.” Tape was gently placed on the outside of the gauze. “You’ll need to have it replaced in a few hours. That should hold up for now, though. My healing isn’t the most effective. I am mostly proficient at temporary relief.”

“It still feels immensely better. Thank you, Dan Heng.”

Sunday caught them looking at each other that time, but he still didn’t realize. He didn’t want to question it. Dan Heng quickly cleaned up the first aid kid and moved to return it to its home. 

“Alrighty! Skin care time!” March cheered, opening up a pack of cleansing wipes to clean off his face first. She gently swiped at his skin repeatedly until it was clean. “This show isn’t filling my brain enough. Someone better start up a conversation.”

“Or what, March?” Stelle was likely giving a mischievous grin, not like Sunday could check.

“I will tell PomPom that you were the cause of the Great Chocolate Incident.”

“Sooo Sunny, We haven’t actually gotten the chance to learn a lot about you!”

“As long as it’s nothing traumatic, I am an open book.” Sunday laughed at the immediate switch up. “I am not as interesting as you would think.”

“Aww, Don’t sell yourself short!” March shook her head and booped his nose, switching to actual cleanser now. She opened the jar and placed the lid to the side.

“Actually,” Dan Heng rested himself back in the chair. “I apologize if this is ignorant of me. You have more wings than typical Halovians I see?”

“Ah, Yes. It’s simply a genetic trait. The gene skipped Robin, Most likely due to us only being fraternal twins.” Sunday closed his eyes as March started to gently apply the cream across his face. “Not that interesting of an answer. Some Halovians do not even have wings. Some simply hide them. It all comes back to attunement.”

“I see. It’s similar for the Vidyadhara.” Sunday heard the sound of the chair leaning back. “Part of why I was curious. I was wondering if our processes of form were similar.”

“We can always investigate when I am not ill. I would not mind.”

“I’d enjoy that.”

“My turn!” Stelle’s excitement made Sunday reopen his eyes and look over. “These two are very boring in the fact that one is recovering from a crazy past life ex husband and one is too insecure to shoot her shot. Do you have any dating stories? Crushes? Anything like that?”

“I have a dating life, Stelle.” Dan Heng rolled his eyes.

“Ah, Well…I don’t have the most exciting history. You all met Gallagher, Yes?” He moved slightly to see all three of them nod. “We had a fling for a while. It’s a bit complicated now. I’m not quite sure he was ever real?”

“He was a MEME, Wasn’t he?”

“I’m not even sure. I could’ve sworn we..Met up. In reality.” He cleared his throat awkwardly. “I was in the dream for so long that it could’ve been fake, Though. I honestly couldn’t tell you. I broke it off long before you all even came upon Penacony.”

“Okay, Juicier than March, At least.”

“Hey! I’m trying!” She pouted in Stelle’s direction. “Not my fault all the pretty ladies are taken straight or immensely too busy to even attempt to flirt with.”

“Very much is your fault. It’s called doing it anyway.” Stelle giggled, before returning her attention back to Sunday. “Is that it? A tale about how you might be a virgin?”

“Seems he’s doing better than March, Then-” Dan Heng was cut off by yet another stuffed animal being thrown in his direction. He grunted at the impact this time.

“Well..Not quite? I guess?” Sunday shook his head in March’s lap before she focused back on his skin. He did have to take a second to cough. “I had a meeting with Aventurine and Dr. Ratio, After I welcomed them into the dream. I thought I would be sacrificed in efforts for the Order, So I never really followed up. Investigated. Now, I severely doubt I have any chance of rekindling what I thought, Hypothetically was on the table.”

“I mean, Aventurine did call you the most handsome man in Penacony. I don’t think it was a hypothetical?” March wiped her hands on a washcloth. “Although, Ratio? I dunno. I haven’t really talked to him much.”

“He called me a lot more than just that, Actually.” He heard Dan Heng chuckle into his hand.

“As the resident Ratio expert, Here.” Stelle made some extravagant gestures with her arms. “If he seemed even slightly interested he was probably obsessed with you. Or just heavily intrigued?”

“I don’t know if it matters.” Sunday shook his head and sighed. “While I may have had an opportunity once, I do not think Aventurine would be willing to even speak to me. It’s not like I’ve tried, So I suppose I am not sure. I just doubt it. I wouldn’t, if I was him. I should not have been a bad page in his already terrible book.”

“Trust me, I do not think he cares nearly as much as you do.” Stelle chuckled. “He’s asked about you, Even. So has Ratio.”

“Wo-Wait. Really?” Sunday blinked a few times and raised his head slightly to look in her direction. “You did not think to mention this?”

“I dunno man! Didn’t think it was really relevant until this conversation!” She put her hands up in defense. “I am just saying, Maybe, You should ask to apologize. Or something.”

“I’ll think about it.” Sunday laid back down in March’s lap. “Dan Heng, You said you had a dating life? I’m curious.”

Also, Desperately trying to change the conversation topic. He saw March look a little excited.

“Boothill. While, I wouldn’t say we’re anything..stable? Defined?” Dan Heng sounded unsure. “There’s definitely something. We just keep missing each other. He’s not the easiest to text to, Either.”

“Pssh, Yeah. His speech to text is hilarious.” Stelle giggled. “I still don’t think that counts, Man. He’s taken you out for drinks twice, One of which you both got hammered and made out. You haven’t seen each other since!”

“It does not sound like that's from a lack of trying, Though.” Sunday chuckled. He coughed a few more times.

“Yes. Exactly. I do not mind, Regardless.” Dan Heng picked up Sunday’s phone to resume setting up the data bank. “I’ve been curious. You briefly mentioned you went to college. What did you study?”

“I have a bachelors in Religious Studies, A minor in Computer Science, and a minor in Music.” He hummed. “To be honest, I wanted to go into Psychology instead of Religious Studies. The person paying my tuition did not want me to, though. Computer science was for me to code for the Dreamscape. Music was my personal interest. Robin and I took classes together. She majored in Music, Obviously. I also took a few business classes. And production.”

“Aw, You almost have enough degrees to make up for all of us not having any education!” March chuckled, “I’ve always wanted to take a photography class.”

“I suppose you all not having any education makes sense.” Sunday processed the information in his head. “The education system is pretty terrible. You aren’t missing much. You are better off finding an independent program.”

“Yeah, It is sooo not for me,” Stelle shook her head. “I would kill a teacher, somehow.”

“I am quite content with what I have. Although, Sunday, If you would ever like to impart some wisdom about coding I would love to hear about it.” Dan Heng sighed. “For the most part I do very well. Then it comes to the Dream bubbles, And my head feels like it’s about to fall off.”

“Ah, yes. It is like that.” Sunday laughed. “I’d be happy to help. You just have to learn a different language for them. It’s quite annoying. Once you start to get it it gets easier and easier.”

“I got one!” March grabbed another cleansing wipe and slowly started to wipe off the cleanser. “Do you play any instruments? You’ve gotta, right? If you went to college for it?”

“I love playing the piano. I’ve always wanted to try out guitar.” His wings flicked once. “I do know how to play the violin. I don’t like to anymore, though. It was for school. I wanted to be in the choir with Robin.”

“We have a piano! Somewhere!” Stelle moved to lean over Sunday with a grin. “I found it one day while searching in the vents. I’ll see if we can set it up again!”

“Serval would likely be able to help repair it. She also knows a good amount about guitars, If you are interested.” Dan Heng stretched in his chair. Stelle moved away from leaning over Sunday. “She lives in Belobog. I think you’d like her. We showed Robin her band and she loved it.”


“Mister Yang did talk to me briefly about Belobog.” Sunday asked, although it was clear that they picked up his nervousness around the question. Even if he tried to act like he wasn’t. “He told me to ask for the story. Said it wasn’t his mission to tell? That you all wanted to bring me there?”

“The more we talk the more I want to bring you there, Honestly.” Stelle laid back on the bed, looking up at the stars on her ceiling. “It was my first mission. I love it there. It’s cold as hell, But..”

“It’s easier to tell you the story, I think.” March finished swiping it all away. She waved her hands onto Sunday’s face to dry it off quicker. “But it’s very heartwarming there. Everyone is so..connected. They take care of each other. I think community is very important in that world.”

So they told him the story. Start to finish. The wanted posters, Sampo and his weird tangents, The orphanage to the start of Wildfire. All of it. They talked about every single person they got close to, The IPC involvement at the end, The sword in the gut. They even talked about Cocolia and Serval, The Landau's story, Clara and Svarog. They didn’t skip a single detail, Yet all three of them told the story with the most respect and love in their hearts. They talked about Luka’s involvement in the wardance on the Loufu. They even explained why they thought Sunday would like it so much. Every single word was precious, and adored. Welt was right. He admired the hope in the world. It kindled something deep inside of him, Where a long cherished promise in his heart was kept protected and tight. In all that time March put a hydration mask on Sunday’s face and was using a soft roller to help it absorb into his skin. He listened to it all. Absorbed everything. He laughed at the jokes, Losing it over the photos of the wanted posters Gepard Landau had made. Stelle even paused the show to play one of Serval’s bands songs. He loved it. He could imagine, One day, Robin doing a concert with them. He would love to see it. Robin did always love to branch out. His sister was nothing if not free and loving. She would likely sponsor Natalia’s efforts. Help put Belobog on the map.

“We’ve really been wanting to go back.” Stelle’s Tuskpir had ended up curling in her arms. “Especially after hanging out with Luka so much at the Loufu. I miss them all.”

“I understand why.” Sunday hummed. “It sounds lovely. They all sound wonderful.”

“It is.” March smiled. “Honestly? Most worlds we visit are. After we’re done with the whole fighting our way into friendship, Part.”

“It is a way to Trailblaze, but I would like it if we could detour from that being our typical route.” Dan Heng sighed. “Knowing our fate, I probably just jinxed it.”

“I apologize for being another person on that list.” Sunday chuckled as he spoke. “I think I am the only one you guys ever had to hit with the Express though. So I suppose I am unique?”

“Yeah, You are.” March snickered. “Not many people try to resurrect an Aeon via sacrifice.”

“Eh, Well. I mean,” Stelle laughed. “I am sure we will get roped into another plot of that kind. Maybe not sacrificial. I hold no lack of expectations for the Genius Society. They’re crazy.”

“Thank you for sharing.” Sunday sighed and closed his eyes. “I am excited to witness what Trailblazing means to you all. You’ve all already been excellent teachers.”

“You’re gonna make me blush! Compared to these two, You compliment me way too much.” March giggled. “Not that I’m complaining. Keep it coming. My ego loves it.”

“You’ll get it.” Stelle spoke confidently. Like she already knew the fate ahead of him. Like she peered into Elio’s plan. “I know you will.”

“I agree. I know what it’s like to be a fugitive, With nowhere to go.” Dan Heng placed Sunday’s phone back on the nightstand. “The Express is a wonderful home to find.”

“While I am not too sure what fate has in store for me, Or what I deserve,” Sunday started to scratch behind Trashcake’s ears again. “I can confidently say I am lucky for this opportunity.”

“You’re too eloquent, Man.” Stelle shook her head. “I wanna introduce you to Herta. That’d be hilarious.”

“Oh, She would eat him up!” March laughed so hard she threw her head back. Dan Heng even snickered. “Especially after hearing about everything with the Order. She would quiz you for weeks .”

“I don’t know if I should be happy to hear that?” Sunday chuckled. “But I appreciate it? I suppose?”

“You’ll understand once you meet her. We go back to the Space Station fairly often.” Dan Heng stood up and walked around to the other side of the bed. He sat down next to March. “She is..an enigma.”

“Good phrasing. I would say a creature in a beautiful woman’s body. If you don’t talk about her Puppets.” Stelle moved to lay in Dan Heng’s lap. He gently petted her hair. “I guess I spend the most time with her, Though. I am the Simulated Universe guy. She has taken a special interest in figuring out how the fuck I function.”

“I..See?” Sunday spoke as March pulled off the mask and discarded it. “She sounds interesting.”

“See? Too eloquent.” Stelle shook her head. “Sunny, You have had way too much media training. You gotta embrace the chaos of it all.”

“I am not good at Chaos, Stelle.” Sunday groaned. “Why are you so hellbent on that nickname? You make me want to split you into two in the Dream just to see what you call yourself.”

“I’d like to see you try.” Stelle hummed confidently. “I already know. I am the galactic baseballer. Beat that.”

“Ugh, This again..” March shook her head. She took a few seconds to rub the remaining moisture from the mask into Sunday’s skin.  “I swear, You’re gonna have to actually play baseball one day and fall flat on your ass.”

“Wait, You don’t know how to play baseball?” Sunday gut laughed. “Oh, that’s too much.”

“I would be too good at it. I’d kill someone.” Stelle defended herself. “I would become the best baseball star in the universe and have to leave the Express just to go on world tours to show off how I swing a bat. I’d be too powerful.”

“Uhuh..”

“Sure, Stelle.”

“Come on! You’re supposed to defend me!” Stelle pouted. “My own best friends can’t even believe in me. Sunny, This is too cruel. You gotta put us in a dream again.”

“I am far beyond that path, Now.” Sunday snickered. “Maybe they’d have more faith if you actually tried baseball, Just once?”

“No! It’s the principal!” She groaned. “Everyone hates me and wants me to die. Even Mister Yang can’t save me from this.”

“Oh, Don’t be dramatic.” Dan Heng laughed. “If we didn’t love you we wouldn’t deal with you hopping into every trashcan you see.”

“See! My beloved hobby! Judged!”

“For someone so hated, You seem fairly comfortable.” Sunday pointed out the obvious. “Simply, Doesn’t seem to be the case.”

“Lot of haters you all are. Even Sunny. You’ve corrupted him. Gonna call him Moony now.”

“Do not do that.”

“Dusky. Dawny. I got options.”

“Stelle.”

“You’re the Aeon of hating me.” She dramatically sniffed. “And all my creative liberties.”

“You didn’t even think of it yourself!” He groaned. “You stole it! From the fucked up version of me!”

“He was funny!!”

“He was not! ”

“Okay, You gotta admit. It’s a little funny.” March sighed. “Just a little.”

“I have converted March into being on my side.” Stelle beamed. “Beat that, Sunny.”

“Dan Heng?”

“Oh, I have long learned to stay out of these debates.” He gave Sunday a sympathetic look. “I am not the saviour you’re looking for.”

“Oh come on Danny!” Stelle shook her head. “Pick a side. Don’t be a centrist.”

“Nope.”

“Come onnnn”

“It’s not gonna happen.”

Stelle loudly groaned.

“You could think of any other nickname.”

“Oh don’t say that. Do not test her like that.” March warned.

“I like nicknames ending with y! It’s perfect already.” She huffed. “Danny, Marchy, Sunny. It’s perfect. I can’t just call you Day. That’s so boring. Mine doesn’t match but it doesn’t matter because I don’t say it.”

“Okay, She’s got a point there.” March nodded. “You’re gonna need a nickname.”

“Do I, Though?”

“Yes!” Stelle smiled big and bright. “It’s a ritual. All three of us got one. And it already matches!”

Sunday sighed.

“At least it’s not bird themed.”

“Aha! Defeat!” Stelle cheered. “I win. I always win. I am actually going to become the Aeon of winning.”

A knock was heard on the door, and then it opened. Welt entered the room, with Robin right behind him. The second their eyes laid sight onto the scene before them they both looked like they visibly melted. Robin was carrying a cup of tea, and the other a bowl of soup. Sunday sat up the second he saw her, moving Trashcake and the ice packs to throw his legs over the side.

“Brother!” She smiled brightly. She placed the cup down on the nightstand and immediately bent over to hug him. He put his face directly into her shoulder. “I’ve missed you.”

“You too, Sister.” He sighed. Then slowly pulled away. “The way here was alright? No issues?”

“I am much better at warping than you.” She booped him on the nose. “You worry wart. It was fine!”

“Well,” Welt chuckled. “You have been delivered the tea I promised. I helped Shush make you Potato leek soup. It’s a recipe from home. I think you’ll like it.”

“Thank you, Mister Yang.” Sunday nodded. “I appreciate it.”

“I’ll get out of your hair.” He smiled. “I’m gonna take a nap. I’ll be in my room if anyone needs me. Sunday, Make sure to eat, Alright?”

“Thank you for seeing me in!” Robin waved him goodbye, as he walked out of the door.

“Want us to get outta here?” Stelle looked over to Sunday. “We can.”

Robin looked Sunday in the eyes. He heard her voice in his head. ‘I have four hours to spare. I don’t mind spending time with everyone. It’s up to you. We’ll have plenty of time to ourselves.’

“It’s alright, For now.” He waved Stelle off. “I’ve been enjoying this. I think Robin would too.”

“Aww, Sunny likes us!” March cooed, standing up to move over to lay next to Stelle instead. “He’s already grown so old and strong.”

“Oh, Our darling Sunny is getting so big.” Stelle dramatically sniffed, while throwing her arms around March as the Tuskpir flicked in annoyance and hopped off the bed, to go settle on the couch. March’s head was now also in Dan Heng’s lap. “Whatever will we do? We’ll become empty nesters.”

“Oh now it's catching on. Great.” Sunday complained, but he now had a soft smile on his face. “I never should have given in. It’s such a bad nickname.”

“It’s better than Angel…” Robin giggled. “You always hated that one.”

“Please, Do not add fuel to this fire.”

“Stelle will take that and run, Miss Robin.” Dan Heng shook his head. “The bit never dies, With her.”

“Oh, Please. No need for the miss. Just Robin is fine.” She smiled. Her halo glowed briefly as she unveiled her full wings, fluttering twice in the change. Then she sat on the bed close up to Dan Heng, One wing going forward and the other spanning to the side. She patted next to her. Sunday moved to lay on her shoulder, her wings both moving to circle around him. “You are all too deserving to refer to me with honorifics. Especially now.”

“Ah, Alright.” Dan Heng nodded. “Will do.”

“So, What were you all up to?” Robin bent over to the side to grab Sunday the tea, Holding in in her hand patiently. He grabbed it with both hands and took a few sips. “Besides torturing my poor brother.”

“Oh, It wasn’t torture. He just needs to accept that he gets a nickname and I am the deciding factor.” Stelle giggled. “Or he will become the Aeon of hating me and become the haterst hater of all time.”

“You have such a way with words.”

“Danny, I will kill you.”

“What a threat. Come back to me when you learn how to play baseball.”

“Oh come on, Not this again!” March groaned. “Can we do anything but argue in circles?”

“March. I hate to say this, But that is in fact all we have done for the last half hour.” Sunday took a few more sips of the tea. “It is also simply a habit you three fall into often.”

“Nuh-uh, No shifting blame mister. You’re in the habit too and you know it.”

“Yeah! You’re the one who started this!”

“I am always a bystander.”

“Fair. Dan Heng doesn’t pick fights. You two do.”

“You’re such a bitch and you know it.” Stelle huffed. “In like a week you’ll be fully fistfighting with me. Like Elio foretold it.”

“I am not that strong?” Sunday huffed back. “You’d crush me.”

“Okay, true. You are a weak little man.”

Sunday just rolled his eyes in response. Robin laughed.

“You’re all so lively. It’s wonderful.” She was looking down at Sunday with a very soft expression. “And very sweet.”

“Now we have another one with too much media training!” Stelle groaned into March’s shoulder. “Stop with the eloquence! Start with the chaos!”

“You’re losing that fight and you know it.” March shook her head. “Do you honestly expect Sunday to let loose with control?”

“...No. Not really.” She sighed. “I am just a complainer. Let me complain. This is a free Express.”

“Yeah, Yeah..” March patted her back. “You poor baby.”

“See? That's better!” She beamed. “Society would thrive if we all coddled me all the time.”

“Sure. That is totally how it would go.” Dan Heng chuckled. “It would not all fall apart whatsoever.”

“Ughhhhhh” Everyone, Excluding Stelle who was groaning, Laughed.

“On an actual…note.” March chuckled. “We were quizzing Sunny on his life before us! You seem like a perfect person to ask about that”

“Oh, I don’t know..” She giggled, covering her mouth with her hand. “I am a bit of an expert! I won’t say anything he’d be upset about, Though.”

“Of course.”

“Mhm!”

“Yeah yeah..” Stelle muttered about media training again under her breath.

“I suppose there is no harm.” Sunday sighed, waving his hand. “She knows my limitations.”

“So I’m not allowed to bring up your glar-” Robin snickered as she spoke.

“No. No you may not.” Sunday sniffed, putting the tea back down on the nightstand. Robin read his mind, literally, and grabbed the bowl of soup and held it for him. He slowly started eating. “Thank you.”

“Ugh, I think we used up most of the good questions.” March sighed. “Should’ve thought ahead..”

“Loser behavior. Loser thinking. Simply be smarter.” Stelle shook her head. “Sooooo Robin, Give us the most embarrassing story he won't mentally explode us over.”

“I wouldn’t explode you!” Sunday looked at Stelle with a look that could only be described as perturbed. “How would I even go about doing that?”

“I dunno man, I just know you could definitely kill me if you wanted to.”

“You have a nuke of Cancer in your chest, I have powers that are naturally generated by my species that I just so happen to have added affinity with.” He wrinkled his nose. “I don’t believe that is comparable.”

“Nuke in my chest gives me infinite swagger and charisma. Not an ability to murder you.” She turned her head away dramatically. “You didn’t deny that you could kill me though.”

“Stelle, We could all murder each other.” Dan Heng groaned. “If anyone wins the power war it is most definitely Mister Yang.”

“Oh yeah, No doubt.”

“His cane is scary…”

“He used it on me once.” Sunday shook his head. “I am happy I was able to resolve the issue without damage.”

“Did he mention that he tried to fly, Once?” Robin giggled. “Not to derail whatever..that conversation was.”

“What? No!” March looked over at Sunday with mock upset. “Stop hiding the juicy stuff!”

“I did not think of it.” Sunday sniffed. “And you did not ask.”

“Is that much of a story?” Dan Heng asked. “I apologize for my ignorance. I thought Halovians had flight wings?”

“Well, it’s not a very long one. Technically certain Halovians can in fact fly! I am able to. My flight feathers have never been damaged. They’ve always been healthy.” Robin poked Sunday to take a few more bites of soup. He complied. “Flying is a loose term, Though. It’s more like…gliding? If we are in an area with Memoria we can use our powers of Harmony to extend flight. But Sunday is not like me. We are different classifications of Halovian. My flight feathers grow nice and strong, His grew…frail. He did glide with me when we were kids though!”

“Oh! That makes sense.” Dan Heng nodded. “Thank you. I’ve never known much about Halovian’s. I’ve always been curious.”

“It’s not very interesting.” Sunday mumbled. “Just genetic differences. Most people don’t expect it due to us being twins. Halovian’s are not very well researched in general. Religious differences held back a large amount of formative information.”

“I guess that makes sense.” March nodded. “Stupid though. Why hold it up like that?”

“March, I tried to put thousands into an eternal sleep because of religious indoctrination and differences.” Sunday blinked at her. “It’s just…a trend within the Family. Not many Halovians reside outside of it. Fact of life.”

“..Right.”

“Well, the actual story is pretty silly.” Robin chuckled. “Sunday had recently been put in charge of his first station of Penacony. I was busy with Music classes, and he was never much of a socializer, So he got really bored and wanted to see if he could. He was determined to be able to, For some reason.  He fell off the roof, but was thankfully okay. We were around..13? 14?”

“You tried to fly as a teenager?”

“I did not have much to do.” Sunday groaned. “And too much to do at the same time.”

“Why were you so determined?”

“You’ve heard the story behind it.” His frantic eyes shifted to the side. “An injured bird should be able to regain their ability to fly. That was my thesis. I still had my malfunctioning flight wings at the time. But I was trying to use the one’s at my head. I don’t know why.”

“Ah that's…sad.” March sighed. “You’re a very sad guy.”

“Sad sad Sunny.” Stelle chuckled. “He needs to be brighter. Haha. Get it?”

“I’m sorry, I guess I failed to give a good story.” Robin gave an embarrassed smile. “Honestly, I kinda..forgot the context.”


“It’s alright.” Sunday shook his head. “It is a very endearing concept. You were busy.”

“Right..” Robin sighed, shaking her head slightly. “Oh! He has a tattoo!”

“WHAT”

“You have a-”

“Intriguing. Is that what's on your chest?”

“Yes, It is.” Sunday rolled his eyes. “I don’t think it’s that-”

“Oh come on now. You aren’t even letting me tell them why.”

“It wasn’t-”

“It’s more embarrassing for me!”

“Surely you don’t want-”

“It’s a good story!”

“Fine!” He huffed. “Tell them.”

“Soo…I was talking to a girl at the time.” She snickered. “Classic high school sweethearts. I couldn’t bring her home, But we did hang out a lot outside of school.”

“Oooo, This is more like it!”

“A girl? She?” March’s eyes were wide for a second. “Continue!”

“She wanted to get matching tattoos. I was..honestly, Not really wanting to get one.” Robin tilted her head to the side. “But for some reason I couldn’t tell her that? So she's talking about us getting these tattoos for months . Like more of our relationship then not.”

“Yeah, I would not get a tattoo with my highschool girlfriend.” Stelle whistled. “Good decision making on your part.”

“Well..Kinda. At some point I..lied and said that Sunday wouldn’t let me do it.”

“I was very against it.” He wrinkled his nose. “I did not like her.”

“So she asked why he wouldn’t, and I kept lying, and then it reached a point where I ran up to Sunday crying begging him to help me.” She tried to get Sunday to eat a little more and he refused. So she moved the bowl back to the nightstand. He barely ate. He just snuggled into her torso once she put it back, wrapping his arms around her back and fully laying in her lap. “Neither of us knew what to do. She said she was gonna break up with me if I didn’t so…”

“Eugh, Red flag.”

“Yeah, Gross.”

“The only way around it was for Sunday to get a tattoo himself. To ‘Prove his commitment to commenting on a woman's body’” Robin used air quotes to further the point. “Or at least, That was the only way she would let it go.”

“Oh my Aeons, that's so stupid.” March rolled her eyes. “But you were in highschool. So you totally said yes to that didn’t you.”

“I didn’t like her.” Sunday shook his head into Robin’s stomach. “And I was in a bit of a rebellious phase.”

“Oh, Is that when you got your wing piercings?” Stelle tilted her head. “I’ve been curious. I haven’t seen any other Halovians with them.”

“They’re not for aesthetics. My wings are clipped.” Sunday’s voice was a bit muffled due to Robin’s stomach, but it was also a little slurred. He looked sleepy.

“Oh..”

“Well, Uhm.” Robin recovered the conversation as quickly as she could. “He agreed. We found a shop that would tattoo him. We got my ex to pay for it because it was her demand. He had braces at the time so he looked super dorky. I have a photo of him shirtless in a tattoo parlor, On the verge of tears because he hated everything and had a fear of needles, In a school uniform and everything. That’s why he has an eye on his chest!”

“It did hold up really well.” Dan Heng nodded. “It’s a good tattoo.”

“Thanks.”

“Afterwards my Ex decided to pick a fight with him outside the shop. Called him a crybaby.” She rolled her eyes. “Said he was a misogynistic overprotective creep. That he was just like our…Like Gopher Wood. I don’t know why she thought that was a good idea?”

“What a bitch.” March groaned.

“Please tell me you beat her up.”

“Oh, I kicked her ass. I broke up with her on the spot and slapped her. If I kicked her a few times, who's to say.” She beamed happily. “I also told her parents that she stole half their liquor cabinet. She was grounded for six months.”

“Oh evil…I like it.”

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

While Welt was gone, He decided to put a significant amount of time into his research. He has done the same before, When Dan Heng first joined the crew, but this felt nothing like that anymore. Halovians did not have much data to go off of. So many basic things are not listed. It felt easier trying to access information from his original world.

First step; Talking to Veritas Ratio. He hasn’t talked with him a significant amount, But enough to know he is logically the best option for information. He was an actual medical doctor, Even if he prefers to use his many other degrees.

His intrigue on the topic would be his best option for fruitful information. It just so happens that he is currently free.

-Welt Yang has come online.-

Welt Yang: We had a short conversation yesterday, But I believe now is when you’d say you would be available?

Welt Yang: Any information you can spare me would be fantastic.

Ratio: Yes.

Ratio: You did not answer my initial inquiry yesterday. Why are you looking for this information?

Welt Yang: Ah, Yes. 

Welt Yang: I believe you have met Sunday Oak. He is our most recent addition to the Express. Not official, But I believe it will be one day.

Welt Yang: I have a myriad of concerns with him health wise. I just don’t have much to base them on.

Welt Yang: If you would like the story I can embellish. You are typically a straight to the information man, However. I would not want to waste precious time.

Ratio: Hm..Well. I admit I am curious.

Ratio: Our interactions on Penacony were intriguing. He is a fascinating man.

Ratio: I believe he is someone who would largely benefit from seeing a shrink.

Ratio: But another time. What is going on?

Welt Yang: Of course.

Welt Yang: I’ll cut straight to the chase. He is currently very ill.

Welt Yang: He had a fever of 104.5 yesterday. Today it is resting at 102. With reducers.

Welt Yang: Our primary physician is not well educated with Halovian care. He only had two medications he could safely prescribe. A fever reducer and an anti emetic. I am worried he needs further care.

Welt Yang: He took a blood test to try to obtain some information but ended up coming up with nothing. His equipment is simply not intended for more than the widely researched species. He himself has reached out to urge us to find another person to see him.

Ratio: Ah. I see.

Welt Yang: His spirits are higher today. He got some decent sleep. I am still incredibly concerned.

Welt Yang: His medical records are not extensive. The IPC only gave him basic emergency care after everything that occurred. Besides the urgency of his illness, I have many different topics I’m concerned about to investigate.

Welt Yang: The one I will fully embellish here are his wings. I would appreciate it if you keep this part between us. Confidential.

Ratio: Of course.

Welt Yang: When he was young he was abused. In all forms, from what I know. He has not told me much. Honestly, I believe he was abused until the day of the Charmony Festival.

Welt Yang: When he was 15 his base wings were pummeled and cut off. As a punishment for being so sick he almost died. He said they broke the bones until they could cut through. He’s kept them hidden every single day until yesterday. He only revealed them because he was in so much pain he was crying. He seems..very ashamed of them.

Welt Yang: I do not know the ramifications of this topic whatsoever. He said he never got medical attention for it besides shoddy wrappings and whatever him and his sister could provide. He said he has never had this looked into. Which makes me suspect he hasn’t thought much of his physical health at all. Himself or past caregivers.

Ratio: You are correct to be concerned.

Welt Yang: I suspected as much.

Welt Yang: I don’t know much. You are the only person I am aware of who could. The Herta Space station turned me out dry.

Welt Yang: If you could help, I would be incredibly thankful.

Ratio: I have done a lot of research on Halovian care. You are correct in your statement that there is not much out there. In fact, I headed a department at one point in search of such.

Ratio: I believe I am currently the best option you have for proper care. I can free up some time this evening. Is he able to leave the Express?

Welt Yang: That is fantastic news. I can carry him if needed. I believe he is stable enough to leave. Warping may make him a little sick.

Welt Yang: I will have our physician forward you all of the records he has. Including everything he gathered from his personal visit.

Welt Yang: Is there anything else you will require? I would like to sit down and write all of my concerns from my perspective.

Ratio: Let us go to Herta’s space station. I have the ability to use their office whenever needed. I will bring the necessary equipment needed.

Ratio: I believe this case will be uniquely intriguing. Please send me Sunday’s contact information.

Ratio: I do not need anything else. Please do not give him any more medication until we meet. I do not want to risk a bad reaction.

Welt Yang: Will do. Thank you again.

-Welt Yang has gone offline.-

Welt forwarded everything necessary Ratio’s way. He was incredibly relieved that he was going to get assistance on this matter. He shot a message into the express group chat to not give Sunday any medication, and that they would be warping to Herta’s for a doctor's visit. Then, he pulled up Robin’s contact and called her.

“Hello?”

“Sorry to bother. Is Sunday awake?”

“Ah, No. He’s asleep in my lap right now. Is something the matter? Should I wake him?”

“Nothing like that. I’m happy he’s resting. Aeons above he needs it.” Welt chuckled. “I contacted Veritas Ratio. He has free time this evening, So Sunday could have a proper doctor's visit. Our physician is not equipped for Halovian care. I was just calling to see if he could be notified.”

“Oh!” Robin snickered on the line. “That’ll be hilarious.”

“How so?”

“Oh you wouldn’t know. On Penacony Aventurine Ratio and Sunday had a weird thing going on. Like a really weird thing.”

“Really?” That…would make sense. “Ratio did call him fascinating.”

“Oh he’s done more than that. They had this whole bickering sesh. All three of them just kept tricking each other or something. Sunday got so huffy talking about it. Said they practically made out on the table but they never touched each other. I don’t know everything that happened. He’s a very unreliable narrator most of the time.” Robin sighed. “But he seemed really sad about it at the end. Whatever was going on it was the most alive he had felt in a long time, I think. Last I checked, I’m fairly sure he’s convinced they hate him. He thinks it's justified. Especially Aventurine.”
 

“Is it bad that I gave Ratio his contact information then?” Welt strummed his fingers on his desk. “I have no other real route to go here for his care. It would be unfortunate if he was uncomfortable.”

“I don’t think it’s bad, No.” Robin’s voice was smooth and melodic as always. Even through the crackles of Welt’s phone. “I think it might be good. He can be a little uncomfortable. He should be pushed to make amends.”

“That's a relief.” Welt sighed. “The..What did you call it, Weird thing? Aside. Sunday mentioned he detests doctors. Is there any..advice you may have on that front?”

“He hates needles. He will pretend he is fine with them, But they freak him the fuck out.” Welt could hear a soft noise from Sunday through the phone. “He also likes it if you say everything that's gonna happen before it does. Usually promises help his brain out, But at the doctors never make a promise. It has the reverse effect. “

“Noted. I did pick up on that. I appreciate the warning, I would have absolutely done so.” Welt wrote both things down on a piece of paper. “Anything else?”

“Ah, Not that I can think of.” She took a deep breath. “At least not how to help him through the visit. I can help prepare him for it.”

“That would be great. Make sure to not give him any more medication.” Welt leaned back in his chair. “While I have you, Actually, Could I run some questions by you? I’m preparing a list of concerns to give to Ratio. If I could eliminate any due to my own ignorance, It would save a lot of time. Some might be sensitive, though.”

“Absolutely. I’d be delighted to help. I won’t forebay his privacy, But I am happy to answer what I can.”

“First of all, Am I correct in my assumption that you were both medically neglected as children?”

“..Yes.”

“Is there any typical Halovian care you know you did not have?”

“Yes. Halovian children who are continuously exposed to Memoria are supposed to be given training and medication to help with the influx. I received it. Sunday, Intentionally, Did not. For a long while I was given it during my music lessions. This can result in oversensitivity with lots of things. Emotions are hard to not bleed in. He can easily overdo his power of Harmony to a detriment to his health. Lots of things. I just don’t know them all.“

“Is that why his eyes are so frantic?”

“Partially?” Robin sighed. “Not enough to be the sole cause. It’s definitely a factor.”

“Anything else?”

“Well, His wings are clipped. They have been for a very long time. While they were still growing.” Robin made a noise like she was stretching. “I don’t know if that could impact his health but it’s definitely worth mentioning. He told me he told you about his base wings, So thankfully I don’t need to explain…that.”

“Yeah. He did.” Welt wrote down everything said and then continued. “Next. Am I correct in my theory that his feathers are unhealthy?”

“Oh, Definitely yes.” Sunday made another soft chirp that could be heard through the phone. “Malnutrition and malformation.”

“Thank you.” He took a deep breath. “Is his issues with diet a continuous issue? Or just now that he has left the Dream?”

“Yes. Well…it’s complicated.” Her voice pitched down. Like she was passionately upset to be discussing this. “Our Father instilled it in him that gluttony is a sin. I wouldn’t disagree that he could be labeled with Disordered eating. He’s always been scarily thin. Always in the Dream, so he didn’t get any muscle. He doesn’t eat enough or as often as he needs to. He’s always overly aware of what he ingests. I don’t think it stems from aesthetics. It stems from..him.”

“I see.” He shook his head. “You know Sunday best, So I don’t think I’m better equipped to answer this. Do you believe his suicidal tendencies are something to be worried about? Does he have any issues with self harm I am unaware of?”

“He plucks his feathers. Hits his head when he’s upset. Our Father didn’t allow any form of visible self punishment, so he doesn’t have any other habits like that.” Her voice only got sadder as she talked. “Besides the Festival, He has attempted before, When I was shot. He doesn’t know that I know, So please don’t tell him…but he has. I think he’s in a better situation now than he has ever been. But..with these things, Sometimes you feel worse recovering than you do in it. With his guilt..I don’t know.”

“I got it. Thank you.” So he was right. Upsetting to hear, but relieving to know he can prepare for it. “Is there anything physical you can outline?”

“He’s weak. He always has been. He and I are different classifications of Halovian. Besides gender. It should be listed in his medical records, though.” She hummed. “I don’t think he got proper care in his development. His joints are frail and he bruises so easily. I would not be surprised if he is fully disabled for life. I know he’s a busybody who loves cleaning, But he is constantly in pain. Not just because of past abuse.”

“Okay, Well.” Welt finished writing down what she had said. “I don’t have any more questions. Or at least, Any I would know how to ask. Is there anything else I should know?”

“No, but..” 

“Yes?”

“Actually, I think talking in person would be better for this. Could you come up?”

“Sure. I’ll head right there.”

Welt ended the call and slid his phone into his pocket. He quickly took a photo of his list and sent it to Ratio as well.

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

Stelle, Dan Heng, and March all spent time asking Robin questions they could think of. After around thirty minutes, It was obvious that Sunday was dead asleep. He cooed in his sleep when he was happy. Robin had to make them promise to not say anything. The three took their exit, leaving the remote to the TV with her so she could peruse and entertain herself while she remained as Sunday’s pillow. She just left the TV playing the show it had been. It was interesting enough.

Then Welt called her. So she turned off the TV and answered all his questions. Now he is headed upstairs towards her. She had slowly pulled Sunday off of her, tucking him into the bed and covering his eyes so he would stay resting. He groaned a little, but didn’t wake up at all. She opened the door to usher Welt in when he arrived, signaling to be quiet as she led him to the lounging area of the room.

She had been meaning to have this conversation with him. She was happy she was given a good opportunity. He was looking down at her with a mix of worry and curiosity.

“Sorry for making you come up here, It just..felt more right.” Robin put her hands together in front of her. “Before I start, I wanted to thank you. I don’t know how but you have managed to get him to open up like I have been urging him to for years . The gratitude I have is more than I could ever explain.”

“I’m happy to do it. We all are.” Welt sat down on the couch, leaning his cane next to him. “I’m glad to hear it's appreciated.”

“This is not about everyone. This is about you.” Robin shook her head. “I don’t want you to undermine or underappreciate what you are doing. You are spearheading his recovery. I don’t know if you realize that, or the extent of what you have signed up for, But you are .”

“I’m aware.” Welt leaned forward and folded his hands in his lap. “After our walk on Penacony, after he asked to join us temporarily, I signed myself up for it. It’s a..bit of a habit of mine. I like to nurture. March calls it ‘dad mode.’ ”

“Good.” She visibly relaxed a little. “I just..”

She shook her head. Then crossed her arms.

“I don’t want to come off as rude. Or accusatory. Or overstep.” She turned her gaze towards her brother. The brother she hadn’t seen relaxed in a long time. The brother who's finally starting to undo his walls. Losing the formalities. Losing the cage she had thrown him out of. “I’m a bit overprotective too, I think.”

“Robin, Please, Speak freely.” Welt gave her a patient smile. “I’ll hear you out fully. You have full rights to whatever you need to say.”

“Right.” She gave him an examining look. She was starting to get why Sunday was opening up so quickly. He would make billions from being a therapist. “I want to know the full intentions of what's happening with my brother. Now.”

“What do you mean?”

“He..gets attached. Easily. He was never one to have many relationships. Personal ones. But when he does, He doesn’t like to lose them.” She locked eyes with Welt. Her pupils zoomed in tight, but a little watery. Apprehensive. Worried. Scared. Protective. “He’s opening up like I’ve never seen before. His wings? He has never talked about it out loud. Not even with me, ever. He’s a terrible communicator. He’s stubborn, and prideful. He latches onto something and refuses to let go as a goal in life. He blames himself for everything, He feels guilt for every tiny action that could ever be made, Yet makes stupidly large fuck ups. He’s a failure, He’s an overachiever, He’s a control freak who refuses to listen at the most inconvenient times. He has done, A big terrible thing to you all. One that I don’t think he ever really believed in. You would have reasons to exile him, or remove him from your life.”

Welt didn’t speak. He just returned the eye contact. Gave a reassuring look.

“But you haven't yet. You haven’t even seemed like you could be thinking it.” She shook her head. But she held firm. “If this is some sort of trick, If you haven’t decided your feelings yet, If there is any form of apprehension or doubt on his place here, I need to be told now. I know my brother has his issues. I know he is difficult. You would have every right to hate him. But he can’t handle that kind of betrayal. I’d find him splattered and dead. He wouldn’t even tell me. I’d get a note and a chance of seeing his mangled corpse.”

“We have absolutely zero intentions of kicking him out. In fact, It’s been discussed that after his first visit to a new world he is offered the official title of a Nameless.” Welt nodded assuringly. “We just don’t want to push him into it. He needs to want it. Not us.”

“I would like to use the Harmony to prove your legitimacy, But I understand after your past experiences that you may wish to decline.”

“You may. I understand you would be uneasy without it.”

Robin’s eyes quickly shifted, Her iris’s glowing as her pupils zoned in specifically on his. Her halo spun slowly. 

“Oh, Triple-Faced soul, please sear their tongue and palms with hot iron, so that they will not be able to fabricate lies and make false vows. May this man speak only the truth. May this man speak his truth fully.” 

Welt always felt uneasy whenever the Halovian harmony trick was pulled out. He was, funnily enough, more scared of it from Robin then he was with Sunday. But that wasn’t what Welt was seeing. He was seeing a scared sister, Terrified that her beloved brother was being pulled into something that could yet again end in his demise. He’s seeing the orphan who hid behind her brother as they searched for help. He’s seeing the teenaged girl that was unaware of the true extent of her brother's misery. He’s seeing the girl who found out he almost died. He’s seeing the girl who sang to pull him back. All forms of her at once, combined into one single sentiment. She just wants her brother to have something tangible. Trustable. Reliable. She’s terrified she’s wrong in thinking he may finally be it. She’s desperate to trust this.

“Will you, At any point, Punish or remove my brother from the Express. Do you have any intentions of leading him astray. Will you forsake him in any sort of way?”

“I will never remove him from the Express. He is welcomed as a permanent member at any time. Besides him doing something unthinkable to another passenger, He will not be punished in any sort of way. I will not lead him down unsteady paths. I will not give him any sort of false security. He has a home here, And I, alongside everyone on the crew, have zero intentions of forsaking him or betraying him in any sort of way.”

Robin paused for a second, examining his face and peering into his soul, Before her halo stopped moving and her eyes returned to normal. She took a deep breath and all of the tension in her body slipped away.

“Thank you.” She sighed, and bowed her head. “I believe you.”

There was an awkward silence for a few seconds. Of Robin staring at him in slight regret. Of her trying to recover what this conversation could continue to be. So Welt decided to speak.

“Did Sunday mention to you that I have a son?” 

“Briefly…yeah.”

“His name is Joey. I haven’t been able to see him for a long, long time.” Welt turned his direction towards Sunday. “He’s adopted. It’s a really complicated story, To be honest. My past life was..eventful.”

“I can understand that.” Robin hummed. “How old are you?”

“Oh, I’m in my 80s. Not a long life species.” Welt chuckled as her face quickly morphed into shock. “This isn’t my original body. I’m technically immortal, For a very quick glimpse.”

“Long story indeed.” She nodded. “Continue?”

“Ah, Right.” He strummed his fingers against the back of his hands. “Being nurturing has always been in my hardware. Joey made me feel alive in a new way. It felt right, Being a father. I was a teacher before. I had students I cared for. But it was different. New but refreshing and familiar at the same time. It didn’t take very long for it to become a strong part of me. I think most parents have an experience like that.”

“I’m honestly surprised you weren’t a therapist.” She chuckled softly. “Teacher makes sense too.”

“In losing that part of myself, While necessary, It caused me a bit of a rough transition.” Welt shifted to be leaning back on the couch instead. “To lose something that came so naturally to me, was rough. It brought me joy. A personal reason to keep pushing. Something to go back to. Now, I’d be surprised if I get to see him before his funeral. I lost it all. I don’t get to see his life unfold, or become what it should be. I don’t get to see his future family. Meet his forever best friend. My fear was not knowing how to handle losing him one day and having to live on in the space, But now I’d be lucky to see the space. If that makes sense.”

“That’s terrible.” She looked back over to Sunday. “I wouldn’t know what to do.”

“Well, I had no reason to not keep going. That was how I saw it.” He gave her a soft smile as she returned back to his gaze. “A bit of a simple explanation, but true all the same. I missed that part of myself, Yes. But the Express gave me new legs. Trailblazing was never my original mission, but it came as a new form of fulfillment when it became my new one. I do genuine good. On a small scale and large scale. I can see the change through. It didn’t replace the void, and I’m sure it will originally become its own. I am here for a very long haul, I know that much, But..hopefully one day I can see my original home again. I just don’t know.”

“Right.” She nodded gently. “I get it. My tour’s are very similar, afterall.”

“Then Dan Heng came aboard. Then March.” Welt spoke with a proud smile across his face. His voice soft and caring. “I could exercise those old legs again. I am not their father, but I believe we filled the voids in each other. It wasn’t the same. It couldn’t be; that was not what they needed. But it was nice to be there anyway. Even if it was half filled.”

Robin didn’t reply. She just returned the smile.

“When Stelle came along, I was needed a bit less. More of a teacher. March and Dan Heng were her path. It was what felt right.”  He hummed. “I’m not a very conventional man. I like to go with the flow. Gut feelings are as important as informed ones.”

“That checks out.”

“Your brother, However, Is different.” He returned his gaze to look at the sleeping man in the bed. He had splayed out a little bit and was snoring. “I had my suspicions before the day of the Charmony Festival. During the day with him, accompanying him on his farewell, It was fairly confirmed. He was adopted, But he never had a father. He had you, and while you from everything I have heard were a very important support, he didn’t have much else. He was misled and misused. Manipulated and abused. In a few short hours, He had talked to me about an array of different struggles, He showed me sights from his childhood, He spoke gently and politely. He bickered with Wonweek. He helped wherever he could, and he offered himself up with zero care at the first sign of fear. He was not the power hungry head of the Oak Family. He was not manipulative and demanding. He was a discarded tool. Sunday, While he may be a grown man, Is just…a boy. He never got a chance to be much else.”

“Yeah.” She nodded. “I agree.”

“I was relieved when he asked to accompany us. I haven’t told him, But I was going to ask for permission to offer him to join. Your shared dream is so harmonious with Trailblazing. His ideas were never bad. He was just never taught trust. He was never taught other options. He was never given any sort of freedom. Trailblazing feels meant for him. Everyone agrees. It’s the true path he should stride.” Welt separated his hands to gesture with one of them. “It’s more than that, Though. I’m sure he told you I told him he reminds me of my son?”

“Yes. He did.” 

“In personality, Not so much. Especially now that I’ve never seen my son at his age.” He shook his head. “But sometimes I look at him and I just see Joey’s face. The scared little boy I took into my home. The boy I nursed to health more times than I can count, The boy who needed to be retaught how to live life. The boy who desperately needed a father, While I was a man who desperately needed a son.”

“That..” Robin swallowed. “Yeah.”

“The entirety of yesterday and today have only hammered it home for me.” Welt nodded. “He’s not the son I already have. I know that. I have no intentions of being pushy, or disrespectful, Or imposing this feeling in any way. But when I look at him..”

“You see a boy who needs a father.” Robin surmised. “You know what the feeling looks like. So you can see it.”

“Yes. I do. By the Aeons above he needs an actual fucking father. Forgive my language, But if that man was still alive I would have tortured him in a black hole for entertainment.” Welt looked her in the eyes. “I have no intention of forcing him to be my son. I have no desire to push past the limits. Our relationship will be what it will be and I am happy with whatever result I get. But I have full intentions to be what he needs. Maybe not what he wants; But what he needs.”

“That’s a very beautiful sentiment.”

“It’s a bit selfish of me, To be fully honest with you.” Welt shook his head. “I might need it as much as he does.”

Robin nodded. She looked towards Sunday and thought. Welt and her had never spent much time together. It was a bit new. They didn’t quite know how to read each other. 

“Sorry, It’s just..a lot of information.” She spoke softly. “I’m just processing.”

“No apologies needed.” He spoke gentle but firm. “It’s delicate cargo. You care. That’s a very good thing.”

“Right,” She nodded. Her voice was a little warbly. “Right.”

“You don’t need to think of any reply. I doubt you had much preparation for how this conversation would go.”

“That’s not it, I just..”

She trailed off and didn’t finish her sentence. Welt decided to sit and wait. She would get to it. After a few seconds…

“Thank you.” He saw a few tears go down her cheeks. Her wings drooped down, feathers fully relaxed. A singular beautiful sob left her throat. “I’m really happy you found each other.”

“Thank you for talking with me.” He stood up off the couch, walking over and putting a gentle hand on her shoulder. “I know you two are a package deal. The Express is always open to you. Our shoulders are yours to lean upon. If you need anything, You just need to let us know. We’d be there.”

“You’re already doing the most important thing.” She looked over at him. “What else could I need?”

“Oh I don’t know, Help delivering needed supplies in a warfield?” Welt lightly joked. “I mean it. The sentiment goes to you too. You do well. You handle yourself with incredible grace. You do your best for that void to not fall upon your Brother’s shoulders, even if he pushes to do so regardless. I can see the same thing in you. Even if it’s not a need. It could just be a want.”

“Thank you.” She sniffed. Then she turned to wrap her arms around his torso and lean in. He returned the hug. He hugs well, too. One hand went behind her head. One behind her back. Protective, yet freeing. “You really should have gone into therapy. You’re really good at this.”

“Ah, is this a good time to mention I write comics?” 

“Of course you do.” She laughed. “I can’t really talk. I’m a famous pop star who does front line charity work, While at the same time being a stand in manager of a glorified theme park.”

“Having one job is boring.” He patted her back. “I’ve always thought so.”

“Yeah.” She pulled away, rubbing at her cheeks to get rid of the tears. “I’m sorry I used the Harmony on you. I kinda regret it now.”

“It’s alright. If I had the ability to be a lie detector; I would too.” He chuckled. “I’m just happy I could say what you needed to hear.”

“Thank you. Again.” She gave him a smile. “I don’t want to sound like a broken record. I’m just…so relieved. Thankful. I can trust that you mean what you say. What you say is..better than I could have imagined.”

“I’m happy to do it, Robin.” Welt squeezed her shoulder one last time and then walked to fetch his cane. “Why would a pop star sound like a broken record? She just sounds like a caring sister to me.”

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

After staying and chatting with Robin for a while, Welt headed downstairs to pack up everything needed for the doctor's visit. They had a lovely conversation. She’s incredibly easy to talk to, Caring, Polite. You can truly tell Sunday and Robin are twins. Just one emotional conversation with her and he saw many of the same cogs turning in her head. He suspected something like that would be coming. If it was the other way around, Sunday would have done the exact same thing.

He ran into March on the way down. She was giving him a confused look. She was definitely looking for him.

“So two questions. One, Sunday is going to go see Ratio as his new doctor? Does he, by chance know that it is in fact happening?” She had her eyebrows raised and a hand on her hip. “Two, Why did I hear Robin crying when I was about to knock and see if you were in there! What is with you lately! Do you just make Halovians cry?”

“Okay. Why don’t we walk and talk, Because I need to pack for our warp.” Welt chuckled. “Wow, So that thing Is really a thing with those three. Robin mentioned it too.”

“Sunday mentioned it to us, Himself.” She nodded, very quickly changing her demeanor to happily gossiping with the drop of a hat. They started walking down the hall. “What did Robin say about it?”

“She described it as a really really weird thing. Then said they basically made out on a table, without touching each other, While all deceiving each other in a circle?” Welt had a funny smile on his face the entire time he spoke. “To be honest, She made it sound like he may have been dramatizing. But Ratio did call him fascinating , And didn’t Aventurine call him the most handsome man in Penacony?”

“Yes! Oh my aeons I mentioned this earlier.” March giggled. Then lost her excitement pretty quickly. “Sunday seemed pretty convinced they hated him.”

“Robin said the same. Especially Aventurine.” He hummed. “But she did also say it would be good for him to see Ratio anyways.”

“Yup. “ She sighed. “Well, that’s good at least. I hope they don’t actually hate each other?”

“Ratio asked for his number from me.”

“Good sign or just him being him?”

“Who knows? Could ask Stelle.” They walked around a corner.  They weren’t walking super fast. “It was about his health, So probably not an advance of some kind. He seemed into it, though. Engaged.”

“Eh, Whatever. Either we find them angrily making out one day or we don’t.” That caused a laugh out of Welt. “So does Sunday know?”

“Ah, Robin is telling him for me. And preparing him for the trip.” Welt shrugged. “I trust her judgement. We don’t really have any other options for a proper doctor.”

“Fair enough.” March nodded, stretching her neck as they walked. “So, You made her cry?”

“Oh, It wasn’t…Okay, No I definitely made her cry.” He sighed, pausing to open the door to get into the lounge car. “It wasn’t intentional. I was asking her questions relating to Sunday’s doctor's visit, Then she asked to talk in person. It was a pretty serious conversation on the phone already, So I was expecting it to be serious.”

“Uhuh, Uhuh.” March gave him a very not-patient facial expression.

“She thanked me for what I was doing, And then demanded to know our plans with Sunday.” He was planning to leave out any personal details, But he couldn’t exactly hide the conversation happening. Especially seeing as March saw her crying. “But especially me. ”

“Oh.” She paused for a second. “Okay. I was not expecting that, Actually.”

“I allowed her to use The Harmony to verify I was telling the truth, And I reassured her that he will not be exiled or kicked out or anything like that. That we intended to extend a more permanent home for him. She just needed to know she could trust this was safe. If it was reversed you know Sunday would do the exact same thing. I was expecting it.” Welt kept walking, Pushing the button to open up the next door within a few seconds. “She kinda froze when I said what she wanted to hear. So..I started talking about Joey.”

“Aw man, Not the kid. You can’t talk about your orphaned kid to an orphan with a shitty dad.” She shook her head. “No wonder you made her cry, You’re cruel!”

“Ah, Well, I had a point to it!” He chuckled. “She appreciated it. She didn’t know what to do.”

“Okay, Fine! Yes! Continue.” March did a circle motion with both of her hands. 

“I was just being honest, Really. I wanted to sit down and talk with her about everything anyways, I had the space, She was obviously willing to communicate.” Welt opened the door to his room and stepped inside, gesturing for March to follow him. “I’ll skip the details, But I told her I know what a kid who needs an actual guardian looks like and Sunday fits it like a glove. I also talked a bit about how I had missed that role in my life. I’m… learning I might be bad at explaining things like this.”

“Eh, You’re doing fine.” She leaned on her hip. “So how’d she take it?”

“She said it was a beautiful sentiment. I told her that it was a bit selfish of me, And I think that was what caused her to cry?” He bent over to pick up a few pieces of paper from his desk alongside a few books. “Halovian’s are sensitive to emotion from others. It’s likely she peeked to see what I was feeling. I learned today that Sunday doesn’t have the ability to control that, Which is interesting. But she was crying.  She thanked me, and said she was happy we had found each other. I told her the Express was here for her as well, That I knew they were a bit of a package deal. She hugged me, And thanked me again. It was a good conversation. Productive. I think we’re on the same page.”

“Riiight.”

“What?” He looked over his shoulder to look at March. 

“Nothing. You totally went dad mode on her though.” March giggled. “I’m glad it was okay though. I was kinda worried.”

“She said I should be a therapist. Twice.” Welt snorted. “I also mentioned the dad mode thing, Funnily enough.”

“Hah! Yeah right, You’d end up killing your clients issues away.” March shook her head. “You’re good at talking, But you’re protective as hell.”

“Fair enough.” Welt chuckled, putting all the items he had collected into a bag. “Ratio did say he was curious to know why Sunday was on the Express, Now that I think about it. I don’t think that's because of us, Is it?”

“Lead with better evidence, Mister Yang..”

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

Once Welt left downstairs, Robin took a few moments to calm down fully. She grabbed the bucket from the bathroom just in case the warp made Sunday sick. Then, She gently shook her dear brothers shoulders to wake him up from his rest.

“Mmm..”

“Brother, I have to leave soon.” She kept moving his shoulder. “ We need to talk. I’d like to chat for a bit before I have to go.”

“Okay.” Sunday mumbled, His eyes slowly blinking open and adapting to the light. “Okay, yeah- Were you crying? Did something happen? Are you-”

“I’m okay!” Robin spoke in a soft amused tone. “It was a happy cry. Accidentally got overwhelmed.”

“..If you’re sure.” He slowly sat up and groaned. “Okay. Talking?”

“Ah well, First thing. So Welt found a doctor who can actually see you properly. In weird news; It's Veritas Ratio.”

“What.”

“He’s the only one he could find.” Robin sighed, handing Sunday his phone. “Welt made it sound like he’s looking forward to it? And he texted you.”

Sunday’s reply was to slowly blink and then look at his phone. She was right.

‘Welt gave me your number. I am expecting to see you later this evening.

If you could, I would like to be told anything you need to be handled privately or discretely now, As It sounded like you would need help getting around. I do not want your privacy to not be withheld from you.

As for Penacony, I hope you know I currently hold no ill will. I will hold you to seeing a shrink. Preferably not me.’

“Okay. So. Read this and make sure I’m not going insane.” Sunday held his phone up to Robin’s face. “He doesn’t hate me?

“He doesn’t hate you.” Robin nodded. “So you should be fine seeing him tonight, Yes?”

“I..Suppose.” Sunday shook his head. “I don’t know.”

“I don’t think you have much of a choice, Here.” Robin frowned. “I’m really worried, Sunday. This could help.”

“I know.” Sunday sighed. “I’ll figure it out.”

“Good.” She smiled, moving to sit down on the bed instead of leaning over. “Are you doing okay?”

“I don’t know.” He took a deep breath. “I really don’t.”

“Can you promise me that you will reach out if things get bad? Please? Not sickness. You .” She moved her hand to grab his. “I don’t care what it is. I don’t care how small you think it is. If you are doing bad, You can’t reach someone in person or even if you can, Whatever the hold up you text me? Call me?”

“Yes.”

“Sunday. Please.”

“I promise you I will contact you.” He squeezed her hand. “I’m sorry you’re so worried. Of course I would. Things have changed. I couldn’t- I wouldn’t-”

“I know. I know, I just-” She shook her head. “I can’t get the idea of what could’ve happened out of my head. That is my thing to deal with, I am aware it is. I just needed to hear you say it.”

“I know.” Sunday nodded. “I’m sorry.”

“Please don’t apologize.”

“But you wou-”

“Nope. I am not hearing it.”

“Okay. Fine.” Sunday sighed, rubbing his thumb on the back of her hand. “I love you.”

“I love you too.” She leaned over to kiss his forehead, before patting his leg and standing back up. She was still holding his hand. “I had a talk with Welt.”

“Oh?” He had a soft smile on his face. “I have a small feeling it was about me.”

“It was.” She chuckled, looking towards the door and then back at him. “He’s a good guy. I get why you’ve been opening up with him so much.”

“It just kinda happens, Doesn’t it?”

“Yeah. It does.” She nodded. “What are your feelings about him? Full honestly. I’ll check.”

“He’s kind. Caring. Sweet. Paternal.”

“Not the analyzing side of your brain, The weird mushy part of your brain.”

“Ah, Of course.” He rolled his eyes, jokingly. “He’s very nice. Easy to talk to. He knows what to ask me and when to get me to talk. He listens really well, And seems to analyze and interpret excellently. He comes off awfully protective at times.”

“Yeah, I picked up on that.” She chuckled. “He said he’d torture Father by putting his head in a black hole.”

“Creative.” He chuckled softly. “It’s hard to describe. He’s easy. Familiar but new enough that I’m engaged. I trust him. He shows he knows how to receive that trust, and maintain it. So far, at least.”

“Good.” She smiled. A pure hearted, endearing smile. “Remember what you texted me yesterday? That you thought he might be implying you could be his son or something like that?

“Yeah. I thought I was insane and reading too much into it.” He shrugged. “I wouldn’t give it much merit. I can be dramatic.”

“I don’t think you’re wrong, Sunday.” She shook her head. “I think he means it. Really.”

“Oh.” He blinked a few times. “I wasn’t expecting that.”

“Don’t think too hard about it.” She hummed. “I just wanted you to know my thoughts. Whatever it is that keeps happening, Keep heading into it. I trust that he’s leading you down a proper path.”

“Okay. I’ll try.”

“I’ll remind you whenever you need it.” Robin nodded. “You deserve a home, Brother. I think this one is good for you.”

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

Chapter Text

After Robin ensured Sunday was ready to warp, she left the Express with everyone promising to update her. So Sunday was left alone for a bit.

He kept staring at the text messages. It would be embarrassing if he did not reply. Wrong of him. It is shameful to hide from these sorts of things.

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

Veritas Ratio: Welt gave me your number. I am expecting to see you later this evening.

Veritas Ratio: If you could, I would like to be told anything you need to be handled privately or discretely now, As It sounded like you would need help getting around. I do not want your privacy to not be withheld from you.

Veritas Ratio: As for Penacony, I hope you know I currently hold no ill will. I will hold you to seeing a shrink. Preferably not me.

-Sunday Oak has come online.-

Sunday Oak: Thank you.

Sunday Oak: I’m relieved to hear that. I appreciate you being forthcoming.

Sunday Oak: I have been told you are well educated in Halovian health. I am very fortunate for this opportunity. I believe you know how intervening the Family has been in medical research on such. A part of life, But unfortunate all the same. Intriguing to hear you headed a research team. If you’re interested, I’d be very pleased to hear about it.

Sunday Oak: On talks of privacy, If we could keep my classification underwraps I would appreciate it. I don’t foresee it being prevalent.

Sunday Oak: It’s just an embarrassing explanation. If Miss Stelle discovered what it means I believe I’d never hear the end of it.

Sunday Oak: I cannot think of anything else at this very moment.

Sunday Oak: I’ll see you this evening.

Veritas Ratio: I was intrigued to hear you’ve landed upon the Express. I am curious how that story unfolded.

Veritas Ratio: I am always interested in discussing my research. Not this evening.

Veritas Ratio: Understood. I don’t foresee that being an issue.

Sunday Oak: You’re curious? I don’t believe it’s much of a story.

Veritas Ratio: Yes.

Sunday Oak: We can discuss it sometime. I don’t see why not.

Veritas Ratio: I’ll look forward to it.

Veritas Ratio: I just arrived upon the Space Station. I’ll see you soon.

-Veritas Ratio has gone offline.-

-Sunday Oak has gone offline.-

He sighed as he put his phone down. While he’s very pleased that Ratio does not seem to hate him, He is still…worried. He doesn’t react to the doctors well, And while the nap helped, He can feel his head slowly getting mushier and mushier every minute his eyes are open. It could be his fever getting worse again. Could be his body got used to a little sleep and is begging for more. Either way, He was hoping he kept his shit together for the appointment. It would be a shame to scare Ratio away the day he learned he hadn’t already.

It’d be fine. It’ll be fine. Sunday just keeps repeating that over and over again in his head. Would it be too early to text Robin about his reply? Would she care?

He wished he could walk around. He’d be able to walk half his nerves away that way.
Three knocks hit the door and entered March. She gave him a big smile and a wave, walking over to sit on the bed in front of him.

“Mister Yang sent me to double check you were ready for the warp before he headed up. We still got a bit, But I thought I’d come sit for a bit if that's okay.” She leaned in dramatically to mock whisper. “Are you good seeing Ratio so soon? Not trying to pry, But…I’m curious.”

“Well? I… don’t know?” Sunday sighed. “He doesn’t hate me. That isn’t the issue, It’s..”

“Okay, What's up?” She turned to sit criss cross. Hands on knees. Ready. “If he doesn’t hate you, Which I really didn’t think he did in the first place, I don’t see why there would be any issues. He’s more professional than not.”

“Okay, Well..” Sunday grabbed his phone and screenshotted the messages to cross off the sections he didn’t want seen. Then he handed her his phone. “This is what he sent me. For starters.”

“Is this what he looks like flirting?” She softly giggled as she spoke. “Like. I’ve just never imagined what it would look like? But damn. He said he’s curious about your story, Not just the research. I don’t think he’s ever asked me a singular question. Or looked at me much.”

“I don’t think it’s flirting.” Sunday shook his head. “Though he seems interested. We did agree to get together outside of a doctor's visit.”

“Sunday, I really think it is. Or at least overly friendly?” March nodded at him. “Like. Do I think he would pursue you fully without at least having other doctors for your care? Probably not! But he might not care too! He’s kinda a mystery to me. Send them to Stelle. We joke, But she would genuinely have the best answer.”

“I…Okay. We will table this part of the conversation until she replies.” He sighed, before doing what March asked. He wrote ‘Do you think this is him flirting? March thinks it is. I don’t’ before turning his phone off and placing it in his lap. “I don’t like doctors. In fact it wouldn’t be far off to say I hate them. Details aside, It’s not a nice trait of mine.”

“That..makes sense for you.”

“I’m worried I’ll burn the bridge. It’s not like I’m violent, Or I’m cruel in some way, I just..” He shook his head. “Either I’m decapacitated or make the process infinitely more difficult.”

“I dunno. He’s still a doctor. Surely that concept won't be too surprising?” She shrugged. “Like. Think about it. Being scared of doctors is a pretty normal thing. He knows you enough to have told you to see a therapist.”

“This is the third time.”

“Fourth. He told Mister Yang he thought you should go to one too.”

“I don’t know what to think about that.” His face just looked confused. He rubbed his hands across his cheeks. He felt anxious and overstimulated. Exhausted and disgusting. He missed his gloves. “Apologies. I don’t believe his character to be one who would think of me like that. I don’t expect anything other than great care. It’s just hard to tell the rest of me that. I usually only discuss these things with Robin. I don’t mean to be a bother.”

“I asked, It's fine!” She shook her head. “I get it. You don’t know the answer to the question even if you think you do. It’s a new moment of trust.”

“That’s a good way of phrasing it.” He relaxed a little more in bed. Body less stiff. Wings relaxing. “I don’t exactly have any freedom here. I’m not being forced, But the only other option is not seeing a doctor, Which I don’t believe is going to be allowed to happen. It’s just…uncomfortable. Suffocating.”

It doesn’t exactly help that he can feel the radiating worry from everyone around him.

“You feel trapped?”

Her face contorted with worry. She was very emotive. The way her body physically softens, The way her voice turns gentle, The hand in front of her instinctively reaching towards what causes the feeling.

“I’m not upset with this opportunity. It’s a very kind and generous thing being done for me. Incredibly rare.” He sighed. “But yes. I already made a promise I would go. In all likelihood, Robin pitched to tell me because she knew I wouldn’t say no to her. Not with what she was asking.”

“Probably.” The frown on her face fidgeted. “I’m sorry. That isn’t a good combo.”

“It isn’t just that, Really.” He rubbed his face again. He was ignoring that he felt his phone vibrate. “I’m just overwhelmed in general. I can’t do anything about that. I’m dangerously ill.”

“Is there anything you know that helps?” Sunday responded by shaking his head. “That’s really rough.”

“It’s alright.” He gave her a soft smile and picked up his phone. “Miss Stelle replied.”

-Stelle has come online.-

Stelle: dude ur so in

Stelle: ur so in its unbelievable

-Sunday has come online.-

Sunday: I’m so in?

Stelle: he wants u bad

Stelle: i was apart of an entire detective case with him and i dont think he seemed remotely interested in anything about me other then maybe the stelleron once. wnd he saw me for who i was bro. we got intimate as hell

Stelle: bro how do u get him to do that actually

Sunday: I’m unsure?

Sunday: He’s not rude. I just treat him with respect.

Stelle: okay hes most def a little rude

Stelle: but thats fine like idk its Him

Stelle: he just locks in

Sunday: So your verdict is

Stelle: hes flirting with you

Stelle: probably

Stelle: hes down atrocious

Stelle: wants to tickle ur feathers

Sunday: I wonder if it's just me who gets befuddled with how you speak.

Stelle: part of the charm sunny

Stelle: cant believe he wants to hear ur story

Stelle: he might as well be making out with u through the phone

Sunday: I believe that is a bit much?

Stelle: he wants to feel ur light sunny u gotta let him

Sunday: Thank you for your assistance. I will be done with this now

Stelle: he wants ur little wings so bad

-Sunday has gone offline.-

“She agrees with you.” Sunday showed March his phone. He had a disgruntled look on his face. “I think.”

“Yeah, she definitely does.” March laughed. “How about this? If anything happens and you need to get all the thoughts out of your head, I can come back and listen to whatever you need after your appointment?”

“I’ll think about it.” He nodded. “Thank you for the offer.”

“What are your feelings about him?” She tilted her head. “You’ve explained you had a bit of a thing, But nothing about how you actually view it. Or him.”

“He’s very attractive.” Sunday shrugged. “Direct. Smart. Passionate. Invigorating to speak to. Demands a presence but loves it when others stand to the same degree.”

“Damn” She snorted. “You think he’s really hot huh.”

“Not the language I would use.” He coughed. “But I’m confident he could lift me with one arm.”

“I don’t think that's very hard but alright.” She laughed. “Well, Whatever. If you need me, You can call for me, Alright? I don’t have anything to do.”

“I’ll keep it in mind.”

“I mean it. I wouldn’t wanna be in your shoes right now.” She sighed as she stood up. “So you’re ready to warp? For sure?”

“It’s not like I can get up by myself.” He shrugged. “I’m about as ready as I could be.”

“Alright, Well..” March didn’t seem to love that answer. She was giving him an uneasy look. “I’ll go tell Mister Yang then. I hope the visit goes alright!”

“Me too.”

He watched as she ran out the door. He expected Welt to enter through the door within a few minutes. He could have a few minutes to calm down. Thankfully. He had a semblance of a chance of keeping himself together.

It would be shameful if he couldn’t.

His head burns. Maybe he should lay back down.

He couldn’t help the way he curled up in the bed despite his knee’s complaints. He couldn’t help how his body shook. How coughs started to take over his airway all over again. How a few tears went down his cheeks in a predicted manner.

He didn’t want to go to the doctor.

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

March gave Welt a quick talk about her worries. She seemed a bit mad about the situation itself. She put a lot of emphasis on how he felt trapped. Then she left it up to him. Well, They were fully ready to go. Himeko was waiting for him to say the word. They had enough time for a small talk before they warped. He can’t change the situation, But he might be able to alleviate it.

When Welt opened up the door he saw Sunday tucked back into bed and shaking.

“Sunday?”

He got a reply in one of Sunday’s wings waving towards him. The one on the bottom right. His face was paler again. Skin is more flushed.

“Are you feeling alright?” Welt walked over to the bed and sat down on his typical chair. He put one gentle hand to his forehead and shook his hand after. “You’re burning up again. I was hoping to talk, But we might need to warp-”

“Wait.” Sunday’s voice sounded extra weak. Frail. Delicate. One hand shot out to grab Welt’s wrist as his hand retracted away. Then froze as if he didn’t realize it was happening. He was hiding his eyes. “Please.”

“What is it?”

Welt softened. Instead of letting Sunday’s hand be frozen, he moved to hold it. His thumb padded over the back of his palm. Sunday felt the feeling of concern drag him further into the bed.

“I won’t be easy to deal with.” He mumbled, his voice cracking at the very end. He swallowed to prevent another coughing fit. “I-I was so out of it earlier, But I still might-”

He coughed a few times. A soft groan left his body in the movement.

“Ruin everything.” He shook his head softly. It looked like it hurt. “Again.”

“You won’t ruin anything.” Welt moved his other hand to rub his shoulder. “I’ll be there. I won’t let that happen.”

“I’m so childish when it comes to doctors.” He muttered. “I’ll make it harder.”

“Then I’ll make it easier.” He shook his head like it was nothing. “It’ll just be Ratio and us. You and me. We’ll go at whatever pace you need.”

Sunday didn’t reply for a few seconds. He just laid there and processed.

“You wanted to talk?” His voice was getting more raspy the more he spoke.

“March mentioned you felt trapped.” He hummed. “I just wanted to know if I could make that easier.”

“Just don’t..” He paused. He was speaking before he knew he wanted to say what he thought. He was really tired. It was hard keeping his eyes open. “..leave.”

“I won’t.” Welt nodded. He spoke smoothly. “I know you don’t feel good, But we need to warp. Can I sit you up?”

Sunday nodded. So Welt scooped him so he was sitting upright. He left one hand to hold him steady, using the other to place the bucked in Sunday’s lap. Then he texted Himeko they were ready to go.

Sunday just looked pained. During the warp itself he gagged, and the second it was over he threw up into the bucket twice. After five minutes he nodded that he wouldn’t throw up again. Then he was lifted back into Welts arms and carried out the door. He leaned his head on his shoulder and used his wings to hide his face entirely. It was embarrassing. He was surprised when he was gently placed into a wheelchair right outside of the Express. A soft blue blanket was placed over him, and he was told that Welt had his phone if he needed it. Everyone else was out of the car. Giving him privacy, it seemed. His head was too heavy for him to hold. He leaned against his arm to try to keep himself balanced. It wasn’t working.

Welt started to push him through the space station. He was walking slow, Taking measured distances and avoiding people so Sunday didn’t get jostled. He made soft small talk with a few people as they passed, Largely greetings. Every minute or so he would ask if Sunday was okay. He just lifted one wing in reply each time. Opening his mouth felt like asking for trouble.

“We’re here.” Welt patted Sunday’s shoulders. “It’ll be alright.”

The door was opened and Welt pushed Sunday inside. He heard the sound of a clipboard being placed onto a counter. Then he heard footsteps head towards his direction.

He would be lying if he said he didn’t flinch. The other two would be lying if they said they didn’t notice.

“His fever started picking back up before we warped.” Welt gently moved the blanket off of his lap. He missed it already. “I don’t know if he can speak.”

“..I can. It’s just… difficult.”

His voice was hard to hear. It sounded painful.

“Rest your voice for now.” Ratio spoke firmly. Less harsh than he had ever heard before. He couldn’t call it gentle. Or soft. But it felt like his own version of it. “I already have a large amount of data to go off of. We can try to rely on Yes or No questions. Wing up for yes, Wing down for no. If that gets too tiring, We can find an alternative.”

“Thank you. Sunday, I’m gonna move you, Alright?” Sunday lifted up the same wing again. He gently scooped Sunday back into his arms and placed him on the exam table. His hand gently held his head as he slowly put it down. “There you go.”

“I would like to start with a general checkup. Heart Rate, Temperature, Any physical concerns. I will need to examine all of your wings. Alongside other typical check-ins for your classification.” He kept a reasonable distance. He was close but not suffocatingly. Sunday was placed in a mostly purple room. He wondered if that was intentional. Everything about this did. “Do you consent?”

He sent one wing up. It was shaky.

“Good. I will need you to change so I can give a proper examination. Are you capable of doing so yourself?” He took a moment to think and then his wing went downwards. Ratio looked towards Welt and he replied with a nod. “Alright. I’ll step into the next room. Knock when I may enter.”

Welt watched as Ratio walked into the door, and then he turned back to Sunday.

“Alright, I’ll make this quick.” Welt waited until Sunday acknowledged he would start, and then quickly got him changed. Took off the sweater first, Put the gown on, and then gently pulled off his pants. Sunday passed out when he needed to sit up. Welt placed his head back down and pet his hair back. Then he walked to knock on the door. Ratio quickly re-entered. “He passed out in the process. Third time in the last two days.”

“Hm.” Ratio walked back to his previous distance. Sunday’s eyes blinked open after a few moments, frantically looking around until they landed on Welt, then relaxed. His focus went back to Veritas. “I’ll save my questions for now. Sunday, Can I begin to check your heart rate?”

Sunday’s wing went up.

He was surprised at how slow they were going. They both were taking the time to ask permission before they did anything. He felt like he had a slight semblance of control. Even if it was minor. His heart rate was monitored. His temperature was checked. His throat was examined. His ears were looked into. Every rash on his body was gently inspected. His weight was checked, Alongside his height. While he examined he asked all of the routine questions needed. His reflexes for his body couldn’t be checked due to his knees. Then Ratio took one step back and looked at him.

“Which would you prefer first? Wing examinations, Or Injury? Lift wing for the first.” He put his wing down very fast. “Alright. I will start with your knees. I also see your neck is bandaged. Is there anything else?”

Welt opened his mouth to say no, When Sunday interrupted him.

“I fell on my back.. few days ago.” His voice kept cutting out. Patchy and wrong. “Sorry...Haven’t mentioned.”

“It’s alright.” Welt put a reassuring hand on his shoulder. “Thank you for bringing it up.”

“Alright. I’m going to start with your knees. This may hurt.” Sunday’s wing went up. Ratio closed the distance. He gingerly lifted the cloth away from his knees. He poked in four specific points. He moved his legs to test the flexibility. Then he put his legs down, and replaced it all to where it began. His hands were slightly calloused, Rough on the tips but soft otherwise. You could tell he wrote a lot. His hands were made to hold a pencil. “How did this injury occur?”

“If I remember correctly, He ran and slid on them. Fell fairly hard, But just his body weight.” Welt looked over to Sunday for confirmation, Who lifted his wing up. “I woke up shortly after.”

“This swelling is abnormal for that sort of injury. Alongside the bruises themselves.” He spoke with a rough hum. Not melodic, but..rhythmic. Prepared. Synchronized. “The injury itself is alright. You’ll heal fine. I can’t feel any proper damage.”

“It’s a concern?”

“Yes.” Ratio stepped back again. “Sunday. It’s time to examine your neck. Do I have your consent to remove the bandage?”

His wing went up. His feathers were puffed, but it went up. The rest swarmed his face tighter.

Ratio stepped away for a moment. He returned with a damp cloth in one hand. He stepped forward once again. One hand gently held Sunday’s chin while the other wet the bandages around his neck. Once it was damp enough to where the adhesive shouldn’t tear at his sensitive skin, it was gingerly removed. The wounds looked more irritated than they did before the initial bandage. Not infected.

He walked away to fetch gauze, Disinfectant, Ointment specifically made for Halovians, Alongside medical tape. He placed them all on a small table beside the table. Then his hand returned to Sunday’s chin.

“How did you receive this wound?”

“He was scratching at his neck.”

“Hm.” Ratio tilted his head at the injury. “With how much effort?”

“Fairly hard, for Sunday.” Welt sighed. Sunday could feel a pang of guilt go through his body. “I had to pull his hands off myself.”

“I was..” He coughed a few times, moving one arm to cover his mouth. He felt very awkward trying to talk while his face was being held with such care. Sunday’s voice sounded shredded at this point. Every cough did him deeper. Every word cut him harder. “Panicked. Thought I was going to die.”

“Why did you think that?”

He paused for a moment to examine Sunday’s face. Even if his feathers were trying to hide it.

“I was throwing up.” His mouth was grimaced. “Thought I....suffocating.”

“I see.” Ratio looked over to Welt for a moment before returning his gaze. He started to softly wipe down the wounds. “Is that typical for you?”

Up went the wing.

“Is it because of what I suspect?” Welt asked softly. Affirmative response. “Can I share the context?”

Sunday’s wing floated for a moment. Then hesitantly went upwards.

“When Sunday was young he asphyxiated on his own vomit. Robin barely managed to save his life.” Welt supplied, gesturing with one hand. “Robin brought him to the emergency room after clearing his airway. Their father discovered what happened, And that is when the event with his wings occurred.”

“A logical conclusion from that story is a fear of emetic reactions.” Ratio nodded. He did softly pause his cleaning for a moment. Then it resumed as usual. After a few moments he started to prep a proper disinfectant. “It’s still concerning that you’re hurting yourself in response. We can discuss that later on.”

Sunday wished he could curl into a ball. Unfortunately his face was being held with far too much care than he deserved.

“This part will be painful.” Ratio warned, giving Sunday ample time to discover the hand Welt was offering him to grip. He accepted it. He learned from earlier that day. Then Ratio began. Dan Heng’s was painful, But he had the magical soothing power to go afterwards. This just seared. It was overwhelming. He couldn’t hold back a large groan of pain. He clenched his teeth and his fingers buried into Welt’s hand. Once it was over, He was trembling. The other two both looked at each other for a moment. “I’ll finish this quickly.”

He gently applied a soft antibiotic to Sunday’s skin, Typically used for Halovian’s with sensitive skin. Sunday gave a small sigh in response. It wasn’t as refreshing, But it was still fairly nice. He felt the gauze being gingerly applied and taped to his skin. Then Ratio returned back to his reasonable distance.

“I’m going to clean up, Then I will need to examine your back.” Ratio picked up all the items needing to be discarded from the small table. “Alongside your wings.”

Sunday’s wings didn’t move. He just kept shaking.

“Sunday?” Welt looked down, Placing one hand onto his shoulder. He flinched, but then relaxed back down. He was panting. “Do you need a moment before we continue?”

His wing shot up quickly. Trembling, Puffed up, Moving with the erratic tendencies his hidden eyes typically deliver.

“Alright.” Welt didn’t move. He rubbed his thumb up and down. He maintained his worried gaze. But he didn’t move. “Just let us know when you can.”

Ratio took the time to look through a few papers. He was writing down a few notes. He had his typically focused expression on his face. Although there was something different inside of it. Something that cared.

After around five minutes, Sunday’s wing slowly went up. He regained the courage to continue.

“Alright. First, You’ll need to be seated upright.” Ratio walked back over. Welt moved Sunday without a second thought. He moved to be standing in front of him, gently supporting his weight from the front of his chest with one hand. Ratio remained in his vision temporarily. “I’ve been told your back is incredibly sensitive. I must put pressure on points that will be painful for a proper examination. I will likely need to request proper imaging in the future as well. Is that alright?”

Sunday’s wing went up. But the rest of his wings flared outwards temporarily. Giving a glimpse of his terrified face. Tear filled eyes. Quivering mouth. Eye’s wide, Pupils frantic, Skin ghostly pale. His wings quickly returned, But not without both of the other men seeing his expression.

Ratio didn’t speak. He just walked over and started to look. He must have fallen directly onto the wing base. He could see slight discoloration, Which should not be expected in that area. Although this was not a typical case.

He used two fingers to softly trace from the base of his mutilated wings. He found each side of the bone and traced outward. He discovered where some bones were broken. He discovered where some fused in a disgusting manner. He could feel where his nerves grew wrong throughout the flesh and broken feathers. He used one finger to test the mobility of the remaining tissue. There was barely any to be had.

He could feel Sunday trembling the entire time. Welt was whispering assurances in his ear. Holding his hand. Saying it would be over as fast as possible. He let out occasional grunts of pain. When he tested mobility he heard a sob.

Then he touched where his spine connected with his wings on each side. Ratio was barely able to touch when Sunday screamed. A guttural, deeply wounded shriek. His halo quickly spun around. His eyes glowed bright enough to illuminate all of his feathers. Then a radiant light blasted outwards, Knocking Welt onto the floor and causing Ratio to stumble backwards.

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

-Stelle has come online.-

Stelle: i hope im not interrupting anything, ik ur a busy goose gal

Robin: Not at all. Is something the matter? Is Sunday alright?

Stelle: okay to be honest i dont know if hes alright hes at the appointment rn

Stelle: yang is with him tho

Stelle: but nothing is the matter thats not why im texting

Stelle: i just want ur take on something

Robin: My take? Sure. What is it?

Stelle: okay so forgive me for being so blatant abt how much we gossip

Stelle: its mostly marchy trust

Stelle: and she does it out of love

Stelle: okay just forget i ever told you any context ever

Stelle: sso march doesnt kill me in my sleep pretty please

Stelle: like she wouldnt but like

Stelle: just forget everything

Stelle: but i hear you described sunny aven and ratio as a really weird thing

Stelle: and i assume you know how ratio totally doesnt hate him

Stelle: fucking freakiest thing ever ratio wants to know his story bro its bad

Stelle: anyways ok

Stelle: im good friends with aventurine

Stelle: aventurine, has in fact, asked about sunday

Stelle: i havent told him hes boarded the express yet because tbh i was scared sunny would run away so quick

Stelle: and its aventurine

Stelle: so i seeeeriously doubt hes out for any ipc mission with it

Robin: Aventurine asked about Sunday?

Stelle: okay ill play out the events

Stelle: ur me, high as fuck with aventurine on his expensive ass couch that sucks u in better then someone paid to do it for a living

Stelle: u just talked about how many bitches you totally get

Stelle: and then he goes off on this little tangent

Stelle: talking abt how him and ratio were kinda in a situationship before penacony

Stelle: but then they go together to penacony for a weird ipc double mission

Stelle: and they hit it off with sunday

Stelle: and its freaky like i think aventurine is lowkey into being threatened with death or something

Stelle: or maybe hes just used to it idk

Stelle: anyways hes talking abt it like the height of his year or something

Stelle: but then he talks about what happened after

Stelle: and im gonna skip a lot of details here. cause duh

Stelle: but aven isnt viewing what happened as like a big bad burden on sunny

Stelle: like he flat out said it kinda helped him

Stelle: bros been going to therapy and shit

Stelle: like its fucked up and i think he knows hes owed a big apology

Stelle: i hope he demands it with love

Stelle: but he knew jade let sunny free

Stelle: and hes been asking if hes okay

Stelle: said he theorized he was in a pretty terrible spot

Stelle: said he could see the same trapped aura around him thats around himself or however the hell he phrased it

Stelle: i let it slip that i knew sunday was okay and was in contact with him

Stelle: i hinted that hes close to me so i think hes theorizing hes on the express

Stelle: and usually he asks to visit a lot and hasnt since only invited me over

Stelle: so i theorize hes giving space or something

Stelle: but the goal of all of this is

Stelle: i think i want to tell him sunday is on the express, he regrets everything, and fill him in a little bit on whats going on

Stelle: but i dont know how to toe that line

Stelle: this is a certified meddling moment

Stelle: marchy thinks its a good idea

Stelle: danny said your take would be what he would recommend

Stelle: so here i am

Robin: Well. Hm.

Robin: Would you be willing to let me reach out?

Stelle: i mean sure i lowkey dgaf

Stelle: aven and i are chill enough that he would just ask why i didnt tell him and id be like. Yeah so look at him. thats why

Robin: Could you give me his contact information?

Stelle: yeah sure

Stelle: damn this is easy as hell i dont even gotta do it

Stelle: but can you let me know what happens

Stelle: im deathly curious on the tea

Robin: Sure. I suppose.

Stelle: hell yeah

Stelle: [Lets go gambling]

Stelle: theres his contact

Stelle: did you see the full convo with ratio and sunny

Stelle: because i forgot to mention that he texted me asking if ratio was flirting lol

Robin: I did not. Could you share?

Stelle [Screenshot- Down bad]

Stelle: imma go see if theres word on sunny for u

Robin: I appreciate that. Thank you for reaching out to me!

Stelle: ofc bbg anything for the queen

Stelle: talk to u later

-Stelle has gone offline.-

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

They both shook their heads to try to recover from the Harmonious blast.

Welt was barely able to see when he managed to catch Sunday, who fell forward off the table directly onto him. His head ended upon his shoulder, the entirety of his limbs spreading across his body. Absolute dead weight.

Ratio didn’t even have the capability to investigate the bones at all. He had only grazed his flesh. Just how bad had it healed?

Welt groaned. Ratio rubbed his nose as he walked over to his notes. He had to write everything down. He couldn’t forget anything he had learned.

“Try to rouse him. I don’t want to risk having to repeat that process due to the blast.”

“Sunday?” Welt put his hand behind his neck and gently moved forward. “Sunday, Can you hear me?”

Sunday didn’t reply. He remained limp. Tiny huffs would leave his mouth, But not a word. His wings were no longer covering his face, splayed out like the rest of his limbs.

Welt managed to get on his knees and lift Sunday back up to the soft table. He moved his hair away from his face and felt his forehead. His thumb drifted on his cheek as he examined with deep concern.

“Sunday.” He tried again. No response. He returned his gaze to Veritas. “He’s typically conscious by now. Touching water aside.”

“Right.” Ratio put down his clipboard and walked back over. He looked ghastly. “You were told he was given improper resources for the memoria he experienced in his youth. A typical symptom is inability to control your limits of Harmony. My presumption is that he spent the rest of his nonexistent energy on the blast. My typical route of treatment would be an IV alongside some sustenance. However, You mentioned he has an issue with needles.”

“Yeah, Yeah he does.” Welt shook his head. “If he woke up to it, I don’t think it would go well.”

“I’ll go grab smelling salts.” Ratio walked away to search in a drawer.

“Sunday.” Welt tried once more. He tried gently shaking his shoulders. No dice.

Ratio walked back over.

“If I use the smelling salts, He will likely come to. I am concerned that he will be in a heightened state when he does.” Ratio held it in two fingers and gestured. “Are you prepared for what that will be?”

“After you do it, Take a few steps back.” Welt nodded. “I’ll handle it.”

Ratio nodded. Then he snapped it under Sunday’s nose. He was moving back quickly when Sunday’s eyes shot open.

His hands shot to his head. His wings ducked to hide his face. His knees instinctively went to cover his chest, but due to him being on his back, It just caused a loud noise of pain. He couldn’t even move to his side, So his legs just ended up laying back out. Sunday was able to hit himself on the head twice before Welt intervened with his own.

He quickly started to hyperventilate. You could see the tears quickly dripping down his chin. He kept trying to wrench his hands out of Welt’s hold.

“Get away-”

“Sunday.” Welt’s voice was soft yet firm. His hands were delicate yet strong. Unyielding. “It’s me. It’s just us. Try to breathe, Alright?”

“No, No-” His chest contorted with a series of coughs. “Stop-”

A sob ripped through. A sharp shrill sound left his throat.

“Sunday.” Welt repeated. He grunted with continuous impact. “Can you hear me?”

If he did, He didn’t reply. Welt decided to wait thirty seconds before trying again. Even if he was overly concerned about his inability to properly breathe. His body was losing the little strength he had. His resistances were lessening. Welt was able to move both of his hands into one, and then gently pried his wings away from his face.

“Sunday, Look at me.” He was finally able to look him in the eyes. His absolutely petrified, Blown out eyes. His entire face was damp with tears. His wings felt soaked. He moved Sunday’s hands to his chest. “You need to breathe. Feel my heartbeat. Focus on my breathing. You’re okay.”

Sunday moved his hands to feel his chest slightly better. That was a good sign. He seemed to hear him now.

“That’s it. You’re safe.” He ran his thumb on the back of his palms. Sunday’s breathing calmed down, But his tears didn’t lessen. He sobbed with erratic coughs interrupting. “It’s alright.”

Sunday maintained eye contact. His wings were continuing to tremble, But his feathers were slowly losing their puff.

“Just keep at it.” Welt reassured, moving one hand to gently rub at Sunday’s shoulder. “Don’t rush.”

They waited until his crying stopped being rough sobs. Until his breathing was back to his sick pant. Welt didn’t move an inch. His tears didn’t cease, But that was victory enough.

“I’m sorry.” He sniffed. Welt gently moved him so he could lay on his side. Then he just remained rubbing his shoulder. “I’m s-so sorry.”

“You had no control over that.”

“I still-”

“Sunday, It’s alright.” He moved one hand to swipe away some of the wet on his cheeks. “Ratio and I are unharmed. I appreciate the apology. It’s received. “

“But-”

“Sunday, I’m more worried if you’re okay after that.” Welt shook his head. “Just rest for a moment.”

He sniffed, but he didn’t resist this time. He closed his eyes and focused on breathing. Eventually his tears came to a stop. His body was relaxed again. After around ten minutes, He seemed as calm as he could be.

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

-Robin has come online.-

Robin: Hello! Stelle gave me your contact information. I was wondering if you’re free to talk?

-Aventurine has come online.-

Aventurine: What do I owe the pleasure?

Aventurine: I have time. Not everyday I have a famous pop star texting me

Robin: I’ll cut to the chase.

Robin: Stelle reached out asking if she should tell you what's going on with Sunday. I asked if I could share the information instead.

Robin: I assume this conversation cannot be traced by the IPC?

Aventurine: I’m not stupid, I have a work phone for that very reason

Robin: I assumed, But I had to double check

Aventurine: I’ve been curious about the birdy

Aventurine: So I’m very pleased you’ve reached out

Robin: I’ve heard

Robin: He’s a temporary member of the Astral Express. I was assured by Welt today that he’s being offered the title of an official member

Robin: I think it’s a really good place for him to end up

Robin: He’s currently very sick, And is at a doctors appointment with Veritas Ratio. Which is part of what caused the chain of events to me texting you

Robin: Sunday is mortified by what he did to you. To put it plainly.

Robin: He thinks you hate him, and is absolutely convinced that he deserves worse for what occurred.

Robin: But then Welt reached out to Ratio for the doctor's appointment. Sunday showed me his texts with Ratio, and it seems pretty clear he doesn’t hate him.

Robin: Stelle even provided me with screenshots of what seems like Ratio flirting with him

Robin: Although Sunday seemed thoroughly unconvinced

Robin: But I think he wants to reach out

Robin: He just isn’t because he thinks you don’t want the contact

Robin: I am not reaching out to urge you to do anything or to influence your thinking

Robin: I just thought it might be easier on both of you for someone to communicate

Aventurine: I see

Aventurine: Well I don’t hate the guy? He did a fucked up thing, but if everyone I tried to kill and traumatized hated me I wouldn’t have any friends

Aventurine: Honestly it pushed me to work on that shit it’s ended up pretty beneficial for me in the long run

Aventurine: I’m still owed an apology and change, But..

Aventurine: Everything I’ve heard makes it sound like he was already in the process

Robin: Yeah.

Robin: It doesn’t excuse his actions, But rest assured that was not his desire.

Robin: Our Father was not someone he could resist.

Robin: I don’t know if you found out the ending of everything. Did you?

Aventurine: ‘Everything’ meaning him trying to become a god?

Aventurine: I got rough details

Robin: He was supposed to die.

Robin: The plan was succeed or death. He was not equipped for anything afterwards. He was surprised he lived, He was surprised the Family didn’t execute him, He was surprised I was able to broker a deal with Jade for his freedom. There is little doubt that if he was not freed he would be executed by now.

Robin: To cut it short, Stelle mentioned you saw the lack of freedom in him. I cannot emphasize how true that statement is.

Robin: I do not just say this because he’s my brother. He’s got a fucked up head and a very rough road to unlearning being a tool for our Father

Robin: I just felt like you deserved to know a bit more of the truth.

Robin: He got to learn your fucked up past and make you relive it. I’m informing you of some of his while being aware he’s been reliving it every day of his life.

Aventurine: Is that all?

Robin: Yes.

Aventurine: I appreciate you reaching out

Aventurine: I don’t hate him, An apology and I’d say all is forgiven as long as he continues to grow

Aventurine: It’s nice to hear he’s on the AE. They’re a good group

Aventurine: I am assuming part of you reaching out is you wanting to know my plans regarding this information?

Robin: If possible, Yes. It’s fine if not

Aventurine: I’d like to reach out.

Aventurine: Seems like he’s in a pretty shitty situation right now

Aventurine: Talking it out sounds like it’d be good for the both of us

Aventurine: I deeply enjoyed our meeting on Penacony. If he wished, I’d let us pick up right where we left it

Aventurine: It’s not like I haven’t been thinking about him. He’s been stuck in my head lately

Aventurine: Barring details as I’m not the kinda guy to reveal that kinda information to his sister but the angel has looks

Aventurine: I’m interested to see where his path goes from here

Aventurine: He’s got influences good enough I don’t doubt he’ll be back to heated discussions fast

Aventurine: Give me his new number, I’ll text him once I’m home

Robin: I’m happy to hear that.

Robin: I apologize for this conversation being so direct

Robin: I’m a bit overprotective

Robin: But I truly hope things work out for you. You’ve got a good heart.

Aventurine: Aw, An honest compliment? How sweet

Aventurine: Don’t worry about it

Aventurine: I’m sure we’ll end up in contact again soon

Robin: That hopeful, Are you?

Aventurine: I can’t reveal my tricks

Aventurine: But I never lose a gamble

Robin: Of course.

Robin: Well, I have to get back to work. I had to delay a few things to visit Sunday today. Sorry to cut it short after making a whole fuss

Aventurine: Birdies and their apologies. Its fine

Aventurine: Enjoy your evening, Truly

Robin: You too!

-Robin has gone offline.-

—----

-Aventurine has come online.-

Aventurine: girl

Aventurine: you know why im texting

Stelle: okay so the convo happened

Aventurine: you couldve given me some warning im getting a famous popstar in my dms

Aventurine: talking abt her hot as hell brother

Aventurine: who thinks i hate him

Aventurine: WHO LIVES WITH YOU

Stelle: okay look

Stelle: for a while i was genuinely scared sunday would leave

Stelle: if i shook the base too much

Stelle: he doesnt look good man like im worried

Aventurine: i had to lie and say i wasnt home

Aventurine: to act like i was kinda busy

Aventurine: i was too fucking high for that convo man

Stelle: okay that timing just sucks for you rip

Stelle: but it went okay?

Aventurine: ill tell u the details in a minute let me be mad at you for no reason

Stelle: aight tis ur right

Aventurine: it was so serious dude you couldve given me a heads up

Stelle: okay i totally couldve

Stelle: but isnt this kinda funny

Aventurine: i hate y ou rn

Aventurine: but it is funny

Stelle: okay do you wanna discuss why i didnt tell you

Aventurine: actually yes

Stelle: dude hes like

Stelle: ugh this is why i didnt have the convo with u the line is being toed and i dont like it

Stelle: he isnt doing good

Stelle: i wanna be ur wingman but damn what if i need to be sundays wings for a minute

Stelle: he like dropped the formalities with me for 3 hours and it was the most alive he looked since he boarded

Stelle: but the entire time hes trembling like a leaf and feverish as hell

Stelle: hes so pale

Stelle: hes so underweight

Stelle: like sure we had our beef but so did we

Stelle: its water under the bridge to me im just fucking concerned

Stelle: yang is the one whos been taking care of him

Stelle: they got this whole bonding thing going on

Stelle: apparently yang made robin cry or something

Stelle: marchy said it sounded okay but she was sus that things are pretty serious with the guy

Stelle: ive been wanting to tell u for weeks bro i promise

Stelle: but like. hes not supposed to be alive even rn

Stelle: he says so himself

Stelle: to like everyone

Stelle: hes like a walking flag of concern idk how to explain it

Stelle: theres a lot going on with it

Stelle: he passes out whenever he touches water

Stelle: he full on hallucinated yesterday and was petrified

Stelle: it was so bad i had to go into my room and clean cause i lowkey couldnt handle it

Stelle: im emotionally constipated and fucked up enough on my own

Stelle: and seeing him so petrified over basic care just

Stelle: idk it hit or something

Aventurine: ur making it hard to be mad at u

Stelle: dude im being honest if i could take a photo of this concern and send it to you i would

Aventurine: okay i get it i get it

Aventurine: i wouldve done the same

Aventurine: ur so annoying man why can i be upset

Stelle: are u gonna get ur gay little bitchass onto telling me the deets or are u gonna continue to complain abt ur inability to be mad at me

Aventurine: okay fine

Aventurine: im not scing because she said a lot of sensitive stuff

Aventurine: but i think she got the message that i dont hate him, im not mad, and in fact wanna kiss him so bad its rotted my brain

Aventurine: but like without saying that its his sister thats weird

Stelle: bro i live with him

Aventurine: okay and

Aventurine: we can fuck at my place

Aventurine: assuming hed want that

Stelle: oh i got insider info for u

Stelle: he apparently used to hook up with gallagher

Stelle: he didnt phrase it like that he phrased it like ‘meetings’

Aventurine: okay so fucking is on the table

Stelle: like as a concept yeah

Stelle: physically probably not for a while

Stelle: bro is withered

Aventurine: still a win

Aventurine: but i wanna text him

Aventurine: i have his number like right here

Aventurine: i even named it angel bro

Stelle: bro ur cooked

Stelle: sounds like ratios cooked too

Aventurine: ugh yeah that too

Aventurine: i didnt tell u this but hes as down bad as me fr

Aventurine: upsetting he didnt tell me abt the texts but im assuming its because it was for the doctors thing

Aventurine: confidentiality or whatever

Stelle: i mean that is the law

Aventurine: law should stop interrupting my life

Stelle: so real man

Stelle: i support u in texting him

Stelle: maybe put a little “i hear things are rough so no rush to get back to me until ur ready”

Stelle: or something

Stelle: idk just reassure that guy a little bit to not rush

Aventurine: okay i got this

Aventurine: im gonna go write this shit so fucking well

Aventurine: that he wants to make out through the screen

Stelle: okay good luck

Stelle: btw just for my records

Stelle: [Is this flirting?]

Stelle: totally flirting right

Aventurine: oh my aeons yeah

Aventurine: thats like ratios version of posing like a nude french model

Aventurine: but with words

Stelle: okay cool so i was right

Stelle: and so was marchy

Stelle: awesome

Aventurine: im gonna go write the most sincere please talk to me message ever

Aventurine: fuck you but thank you

Stelle: love u too man

-Aventurine has gone offline.-

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

“I have no intentions to rush.” Ratio stepped back into view. Sunday slowly opened his eyes back up. “But we do have more to do. I believe we should wait until we have an opportunity for a proper examination of your wings. One where you do not need to be touched. I was unable to finish.”

Sunday just looked ashamed. One set of wings went back to covering his face.

“I would like to discuss some things. Plans moving forward. Restrictions.” He slowly moved the chair from the desk over near the table. The reasonable distance away, yet again. He had his clipboard this time. “Are you able to do that?”

Sunday’s wing went up. He was relieved they just needed to talk.

“First. I believe this is a severe case of the flu. I will need to send a handful of tests after we have gone through all of my concerns. It is a simple saliva test to verify the flu. It is likely it was a small strain that went through the Express without anyone batting an eye.” He gestured with one hand, crossing his legs in the chair. “I am aware of how long you spent submerged in Memoria. Even with your situation, Your immune system is scarily weak. To injuries and illness. The dreampool should keep your body at a reasonable health level. Especially one that you would have received. I am concerned this is a symptom of an underlying issue. Once you are no longer sick, I would like to spend time investigating such. I can start the process today, With a few tests. Outside of that, I believe it would be more fruitful to wait until you are feeling better. If possible, I would request that everyone on the crew wears a mask whenever they leave the Express until we have discovered the cause. Keep up on hygiene. Wash your hands every time you enter or leave. Washing after boarding would also be beneficial.”

Sunday and Welt both nodded.

“Second. You are dangerously underweight.” Ratio rolled his shoulders backwards. “A man of your height should be around 140 pounds. You only weigh 98. If your weight drops any lower you would require a feeding tube. I request you eat bigger meals more often. Snack when you can. Try to drink smoothies, Or protein drinks. If you feel incapable of at least improving your diet, We can discuss options. I would like to prescribe an appetite stimulant to assist with such. If you are adverse to this, Or would like more options to be more effective, I recommend Cannabis. There are no adverse health effects for Halvoians. If I remember correctly, The Express frequents Xianzhou Loufu. You can acquire some there. Just wait until you are no longer ill.”

“I was worried about that.” Welt sighed. “We’ll do what we can. Thank you for the suggestion.”

Sunday nodded again. At least the prescription would assist. The second remark was strange, But he couldn’t say it's the first time he had ever been told he needed to smoke some weed. It still felt..odd. Is that typical medical advice? Does he know what typical medical advice is anymore?

“Third, Your head wings. Every single one is malformed. Your feathers haven’t been growing properly for a very long time. They are weak and easily broken. The support bones feel like they have fractured and rehealed improperly on multiple occasions, But I cannot confirm this without proper imaging.” Ratio and Welt made temporary eye contact before he returned his gaze back to Sunday. “In the case of your clipped wing, It’s growth was stunted prematurely. After further examination, I would like to investigate if we could at least get your feather follicles produced correctly. I doubt we will be able to recover any other sort of growth in the wing. I can attempt to remove the clips and stimulate hormones to recover the growth, But it is very likely that when you gain your full wingspan, It will be unable to compete with the other wings.”

“So Halovian wings continue to develop beyond adulthood?” Welt inquired, Gesturing with one hand. “I was under the assumption there was no more development.”

“There are multiple classifications of Halovian. Sunday falls under one of many that continue to have growth in their wings until they are 40.” Ratio replied with care. No insights onto his classification while still answering the question. Sunday let out a small sigh of relief at that. “This concern could affect your balance for life. Do you have issues with vertigo? Are you disoriented where you used to not?”

Sunday’s wing went up.

“I would like to begin alleviating this right away. Unfortunately, I cannot without imaging, And you are currently not in the condition to be able to get an xray.”

“Right.” Welt nodded. “We can act once he is no longer ill.”

“My next concern I suspect you knew was coming, Your base wings. I understand this is more of a sensitive topic. Can we discuss it now?” Sunday’s wing slowly went up. He might as well get it over with. “I was unable to examine the base without immense pain. You have essentially no mobility. At this stage, Without imaging I am yet again stagnant. However, I do have two theories on how this could go forward.”

Welt nodded. Sunday swallowed.

“Surgery to attempt to remove foreign bones and relocate what can be. Would likely require re breaking multiple bones for realignment. You may lose multiple nerves in the process. Typically what could not be relocated would be replaced with steel. I am concerned about the base bones. They seem unhealthy at best. It’s very likely they are warped in wrong directions. This could be affecting your spine in itself.” Ratio sighed. “Or complete amputation. Depending on the health of the section of your spine, It would likely require rods to be placed in hopes they can recover and regrow. It could not be as temporary as desired. It could end up permanent.”

“Oh.”

Sunday’s voice sounded like pure sandpaper.

“I see.” Welt looked over to Sunday to see a spike in terror go through his eyes. “That isn’t good news.”

“No.” Ratio shook his head. “This is a lifelong disability. No matter the route, No matter if I found every expert in the society to help, This will be with you forever. I can tell that without the imaging. Intervention or not. Any option I can provide will just help it not get worse as quickly.”

“Is there anything we can do in the meantime?”

Welt’s worry felt like a punch in the gut this time. He softly groaned in response, But neither of the men commented.

“I will be prescribing pain medication to alleviate the pain. You hide yourself incredibly well, But you would not have had the reaction you did if this wasn’t bothering you constantly.” Ratio wrote a few things down. “Otherwise, I recommend absolute rest. Consistent lumbar support. Once you are a bit healthier, We can figure out a routine to help grow the muscles supporting your back. Mobility aides would be beneficial. You should remain using the wheelchair until your knees have healed. Once they are, My best recommendation would be wrist crutches. I have a set with an adjustable height I can give you. Your joints are weak themselves, So I would recommend compression gloves to help outside of the aide. Ankle supports as well. I will give you some soft wrappings to help alleviate your knee’s swelling, And in the future can be used to help support. When you are doing mundane activities, Cleaning, Office work. Does not matter, I believe it would be beneficial as your body regains its strength.”

“It’s..that bad?” Sunday groaned softly as he spoke. “Really?”

“I am surprised you were walking at all for the past year.” Ratio shook his head. “It may be a rough transition, But accepting the disability will help you infinitely in the long run. I still encourage you to do daily activities. A hobby where you could sit would be recommended. It’s a hard line to manage, But I believe you can achieve it.”

Sunday just looked downward. Welt looked at him for a moment and then returned his gaze to Ratio. His hand gently rubbed his shoulder in comfort yet again.

“We’ll take them.” Welt nodded. “Thank you.”

“Next. In typical cases, I would put you in treatment knowing what I do. Your habits of self harm are concerning. I know you have a history of attemptive suicide. In the short details I’ve been told, I have no doubt you struggle with suicide idealization.” Ratio handed a paper over to Sunday. “This is a list of therapists I trust. They will not leak any information to the IPC, or The Family. You will also receive this digitally when I send my official records, Alongside the future test results. I have outlined which therapists excel in which departments. The top three are the ones who cover all of the issues I know of. I urge you to reach out to them. If you cannot do it yourself, I can give Welt the proper ability to do so in your stead. You need help. I don’t think it would be very appropriate for myself to deliver it.”

Sunday held the paper in his hand. He briefly skimmed the names. None were any he remembered. Good.

“I believe it would be beneficial to get you into physical therapy as well.” Ratio hummed, leaning back in his chair to sit upright. “I did not have any recommendations prepared. I can provide them at a later time. I do not believe you are currently in a condition where you could start the process regardless.”

They both nodded.

“I am concerned about your Harmony output. In the future, I would like to investigate a medication to help you not soar past your limitations.”

They both nodded again.

“In terms of illness, I would like you to be on a continuous IV for a day. Your dehydration is not as severe as everything else, But it will hold back your recovery. I demand you are only eating soft foods until your throat repairs. I will prescribe a proper anti-emetic, Fever reducer, And I can direct you to options for throat numbing topical treatments to assist. For your rash, I believe it is likely due to how sensitive your skin is, So I will prescribe an aloe based lotion for that alone. It seems they’ve gotten more irritated since the original treatment, So I believe this will help alleviate.” Ratio looked over to Welt. “My assumption is that you will be in charge of his medication until he is recovered. Before we go, We will go over every single medication I am prescribing to ensure it is properly applied.”

“I appreciate that. Thank you.” Welt nodded, reassuring Sunday with his hand all over again. “Is there anything else?”

“I am done. We need to do a few blood tests. I will need to get a saliva sample. Then, We can board the Express and I can administer the IV while Sunday is in bed. I will make it portable, and I will do what I can to make it unobtrusive. I am informed that the Express crew can manage changing out the IV, So I will return after 24 hours to remove it. We can do a small check in on your health then as well. Once you are no longer ill we can have another appointment to begin researching care options.” Ratio started sorting the papers on his clipboard. “Once I have taken the samples the examination is over. You can fill the prescriptions right outside this office. I will prepare everything needed for departure now, Including the aides I have offered, So you may have a few minutes to rest.”

“That sounds great.” Welt smiled. “The entire Express appreciates you doing this so last minute. Thank you for taking the time.”

“This is a special case.” Ratio spoke like it was simple. “I have personal investment.”

“Still, We appreciate it.”

“I suppose I accept.” He stood up, walking back over to the desk and moving a few more papers. “This is an invigorating case, Which happens to be attached to someone I have interest in. It’s truly got nothing to do with the Express itself. No offense intended.”

Welt had to swallow to not chuckle at that. Sunday looked shocked for a moment before regaining his composure. Then he looked to Welt and made a gesture that looked like a phone. His phone was handed to him.

“Right.” Welt had easily readable humor in his voice. “None taken.”

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

-Sunday has come online-

Sunday: Okay I might regret this

Sunday: In fact I think I already am

Sunday: But

Stelle: okay u got me hooked get on with it

Sunday: What does it mean if he says he has personal investment in my case and that it happens to be attached to someone he has interest in

Stelle: bro he wants u

Sunday: Okay cool. Right.

Stelle: hey ur not denying it this time

Stelle: is everything going ok? doctors wise?

Sunday: No.

Sunday: But I’m fine.

Stelle: what a great answer

Stelle: so ur not fine

Sunday: I’m living.

Sunday: You’ll hear all about it when we’re back. I’m sure.

Sunday: At least the ‘I’m disabled’ part.

Stelle: oof

Stelle: ok well if u wanna talk

Stelle: could summon the team

Stelle: for support

Sunday: I don’t know.

Sunday: Miss March already offered.

Stelle: ok well

Stelle: how bout this

Stelle: we show up anyway

Stelle: after you get a bit of time to urself. and maybe a nap u probably need a nap u always do

Stelle: and then if u wanna talk were there if not we can just chat

Stelle: and if ur horrifically bothered u can kick us out

Stelle: but otherwise we will be there

Stelle: in the space

Stelle: with the open invite to talk about what you need or want to

Stelle: but with zero pressure

Stelle: cause i suspect if u dont wanna talk abt the medical stuff

Stelle: it could be nice to just chat and talk about boys and stuff

Stelle: u got a lot in ur head

Stelle: and ur probably freaking out if ur openly admitting that things arent going away in what was originally a very casual conversation

Stelle: so we can be there

Stelle: in the space

Stelle: together

Sunday: I can’t say no to an offer like that.

Sunday: Thank you.

Sunday: For how befuddled I tend to get from your communications, You are still very emotionally strong. It’s endearing.

Stelle: ugh mr media training

Stelle: just say im hot as fuck and u wanna see what the nuke looks like

Sunday: I regret that now

Stelle: ok good never do it again

Sunday: I don’t want to see what your ‘nuke’ looks like.

Stelle: i can imagine ur face rn saying that

Stelle: ur nose all scrunched up

Sunday. Sigh.

Stelle: wow ur really sending sigh as a full message

Stelle: wow

Stelle: wow

Stelle: ok joking over ur fine im not offended whatsoever

Stelle: its lowkey nice seeing u be quippy i cant resist the urge

Sunday: I am not falling for the trick of saying something nice about you again.

Stelle: aw little baby is learning

Sunday: I need to go. I probably shouldn’t be spending my strength on a conversation like this.

Stelle: thank u for trusting me with ur manly woes

Sunday: My woes?

Stelle: ur yearning woes yes

Sunday: Okay. I'm going now.

Stelle: ur a yearner man its ok

-Sunday has gone offline-

—----

-Aventurine has come online.-

Aventurine: If it isn’t the most handsome man of the Express.

Aventurine: Look, Whatever is going on with you, I hope you know I don’t hate you. I don’t hold anything of what happened over your head.

Aventurine: In fact, I’d like to talk about it. In person.

Aventurine: No pressure on when.

Aventurine: Take care of yourself, Birdie. Don’t be getting all sad when you think of me. I’m thinking of you too.

-Aventurine has gone offline.-

-Aventurine has come online.-

Aventurine: I should probably mention Veritas isn’t the one who told me, Or gave me your number.

Aventurine: Robin told me. Although Stelle was keeping the secret from me for a while.

Aventurine: Feel better soon. Don’t lose my number ♡

-Aventurine has gone offline.-

—----

-Aventurine has come online.-

Aventurine: okay i did it i texted him

Stelle: ok damn

Stelle: he just stopped texting me too

Aventurine: he just texted u? Like just just?

Stelle: like last text 4 mins ago

Aventurine: he mustve put the phone down right before i texted

Stelle: lowkey my fault

Stelle: i called him a baby yearner

Aventurine: for someone so concerned u rlly have a way of going about it

Stelle: im not explaining myself to u

Stelle: altho he texted me because ratio was MAD flirty

Aventurine: oh??

Aventurine: the most annoying part of dating a doctor is not getting to hear half of his tea

Aventurine: like we said if we got the chance either of us could go for him but DAMN

Aventurine: feel all wisted over here

Stelle: hey so ur literally jealous of ur boyfriend because of a guy who tried to kill u

Aventurine: oh im sure veritas has thought about killing me at least once

Aventurine: keeps things alive and steamy

Stelle: ok freakalert wtf

Stelle: dont be getting all freaky in my dms

Aventurine: what happeneddddd

Stelle: ‘What does it mean if he says he has personal investment in my case and that it happens to be attached to someone he has interest in’ is the text i got

Stelle: so like

Stelle: thats all u get

Aventurine: damn

Aventurine: ok well not as entertaining as i hoped

Aventurine: because now im sitting here waiting on a text from a very ill man

Stelle: yeah lowkey he might fall asleep before he checks his phone again

Stelle: ur saving grace is if he wants to text or call robin

Aventurine: would it be too much to text her to call him

Stelle: yes bro dont do that whats wrong with u

Aventurine: im impatient

Stelle: bro work on that wtf

Stelle: those siblings got too many issues for that typa shenanigans

Aventurine: i wasnt going to

Aventurine: but the fact that i could is funny

Stelle: ok whatever bro

Stelle: i hope u know im not snooping for details for sunny for u anymore

Stelle: like if he tells me freaky shit ur not getting the freak

Stelle: and he wont hear what u say either obviously btw

Aventurine: yeah that would probably be the trusting thing to do huh

Stelle: yeah

Stelle: plus like idk i feel like once he reads that text u guys might be at the point of idk

Stelle: communicating

Aventurine: thats the hope

Stelle: ok well i gotta go back to doing things instead of listening to grown men yearn for each other

Stelle: too invested in ur gd love life

Stelle: if veritas texts me abt u guys im gonna lose it u hear me

Stelle: lose it

Aventurine: fair enough man

-Stelle has gone offline.-

Aventurine: thank u though

-Aventurine has gone offline.-

—----

-Stelle has come online.-

Stelle: i got a slight update for u

Stelle: he texted me abt something completely irrelevant and i asked him how the visits going

Stelle: i got told id hear about it. “At least the ‘I’m disabled’ part”

Stelle: and he said hes not okay but is fine

Stelle: i pushed further and i got ‘im living’

Stelle: so erm

Stelle: i made a plan w him to give him some space and probably naptime and then marchy danny and i will go spend time with him and stuff and give him space to talk or whatever

Stelle: but i assume he will come to you with this information

Stelle: i just uh

Stelle: idk

Stelle: im worried

Robin: Thank you for contacting me.

Robin: That is…distressing to hear.

Stelle: yeah i really got no context and a very concerning message

Robin: Yeah :(

Stelle: ive been debating texting yang abt it

Stelle: but i know were gonna get a talk on the express and i should just wait

Robin: I..might text him myself.

Robin: I know Sunday will tell me everything. I don’t want to wait until he’s cognizant enough to do so though. I just want to see the records myself. As soon as possible.

Robin: Maybe I should’ve just stayed..

Stelle: girl ur a busy goose

Stelle: u got busy goose things to do

Stelle: would it probably go better for him if u stayed? Yeah, but its kinda like that for literally everything with him

Stelle: ur totally real to be worried

Stelle: u guys got some history im not tryna speak on ur experience or whatever

Stelle: but its probably better for him in the long run to do some

Stelle: trust exercises

Robin: That is why I didn’t stay, I just…

Robin: I’m just worried.

Robin: I also know Welt will be very candid and understand where I’m coming from.

Stelle: oh yeah no totally text him

Stelle: im just trying to be honest with u

Stelle: do not feel bad or guilty

Stelle: if ur anything like ur literal twin brother, ur feeling mad guilty in ur head rn

Stelle: so dont do that

Robin: Ah, I guess I’m found out.

Stelle: get the information u need to feel prepared for when sunday contacts u abt this

Stelle: but otherwise hold trust in urself that ur not abandoning him or anything like that

Stelle: ugh am i just a therapist today

Robin: Excuse me?

Stelle: sorry no ill explain that later lets finish this actually important conversation

Robin: Okay?

Robin: I appreciate it. I’ll try to keep it in mind.

Robin: I am very appreciative of you reaching out.

Robin: I am even more appreciative of your care in how I am doing in this.

Robin: And I am most appreciative for your care for my brother. It’s truly relieving to hear he has an actual support system in his life.

Robin: So what was that about being a therapist today?

Stelle: ok so ur rlly curious damn

Stelle: ok so i texted u

Stelle: and then aven texted me

Stelle: and i didnt tell u this. But he was high as shit when u texted

Stelle: and he has it down bad for ur brother

Stelle: and so that does surmise to your opinion of him mattering

Stelle: and i talked with him for a while

Stelle: he was mad at me and then wasnt and then wrote a message

Stelle: but then surprise sunday texts me

Stelle: talkin bout ratio and shit im sure u will hear eventually

Stelle: or ig maybe u wouldnt idk how much u talk abt love life

Stelle: i can send it later

Stelle: besides like big emotional stuff

Stelle: but it was a gay as hell thing ratio said

Stelle: and then i asked if he was ok

Stelle: convo we already discussed

Stelle: i scare sunny off by calling him a yearning baby

Robin: Of course you did.

Stelle: part of my charm

Stelle: but THEN aven texts me AGAIN

Stelle: saying he sent the gd message the minute sunny put his phone down

Robin: Oh boy

Stelle: bro and i already needed to text u

Robin: Okay I get it now

Robin: Funnily enough, I made jokes about Welt being a therapist twice yesterday

Stelle: oh yeah

Stelle: heard abt that

Stelle: funny as hell that u dont think he would kill his patients’ problems away

Robin: I have thought about it, Afterwards. He did threaten my late father with a black hole.

Stelle: o damn black hole is serious

Stelle: like bro has that power but he dont do it often

Robin: He can actually summon black holes?

Stelle: oh dude no he could kill all of us without blinking

Stelle: like i dont know if ive ever met someone as powerful as him fr

Stelle: its just destructive as fuck

Robin: I did not know that

Stelle: dude omg i cant believe this rn

Stelle: okay so real tea

Stelle: the real reason acheron did the whole

Stelle: Nihility thing to aven

Stelle: was because Welt was about to use his cane

Stelle: like intending to do damage for once

Stelle: and that would have destroyed the entire area

Stelle: like the whole thing

Robin: Oh?

Robin: That

Robin: He’s a very interesting man!

Stelle: ugh his lore is crazy bro

Stelle: he doesnt tell us much

Stelle: i can always tell hes leaving out a large amount of details

Stelle: we just mostly hear abt his kid

Stelle: but sometimes damn he gets heated

Stelle: like this old af man thats basically my adoptive father teacher guy

Stelle: who excels in losing his glasses, reading and collecting manga, and writing manga and comic books

Stelle: has some freaky blonde guy whos supposedly in this universe but gone who gets him huffy every time hes mentioned

Stelle: and himeko HATES that guy and she doesnt hate people much

Stelle: also has the power of black holes at his whim

Stelle: like his cane is probably one of the most powerful things to exist

Stelle: like his cane SNUFFED OUT my EXPLODING STELLERON in MY CHEST with ONE GENTLE HIT

Stelle: like bro kinda crazy

Robin: This is very interesting to know!

Robin: We’ve always gotten along, But we haven’t had too many chances to talk.

Stelle: u just know if he mentions his world ur in for a treat

Stelle: just look out u will get ur moment

Stelle: but i think i need to end gossiping and get back to cleaning my room for sunny

Stelle: if thats chill

Robin: Oh totally!

Robin: I didn’t realize I was keeping you. My apologies.

Stelle: nah i love to gossip

Stelle: its why i keep ending up being a therapist

Robin: Ha!

Robin: I’ll let you go now. I’ll probably contact Welt soon enough myself.

Robin: Thank you again. I’m happy my brother has people like you.

Stelle: oughjfgkj

Stelle: i cant pick a fight with u sunny and marchy would kill me

Stelle: be less genuine be free and chaotic

-Stelle has gone offline.-

Robin: Okay then?

-Robin has gone offline-

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

Sunday handed his phone back to Welt. He was giving a curious, amused look. Sunday didn’t feel right telling Welt all about his love life and the intricacies within it. He didn’t know why. It just felt strange. Wrong.

In that time Ratio had acquired everything he needed. Two foldable wrist crutches were in a bag. You could see multiple wraps and braces placed inside as well, With a tiny paper note inside. He had a folder with all of his notes already printed and prepared. He also attached an extra document reiterating all of the prescriptions to ensure issues could not occur. Then he put it all down, Washed his hands and put on gloves, Then walked over back to the ever so comfortable reasonable distance. The side table was already prepared for what needed to happen.

“Alright. You can administer the saliva sample yourself. You just take the swab and rub it on the inside of your cheek.” Ratio gently handed the swab to Sunday. He did as instructed and then Ratio put the swab inside a tube, Sealed it, and put it aside. Then he took off his gloves, and moved to fetch another set. “It’s time for the blood sample. Are you ready?”

Sunday’s wing shakily went upwards. Welt offered his hand and Sunday took it faster then he could think. He was already grimacing over the concept.

“I’ll go as quickly as I can.” Ratio took Sunday’s left arm, and tied a ribbon around it. He numbed the area. He prepared the needle and made sure all three of the vials needing to be filled were ready to be inserted. Then he gently rubbed the trembling arm, Held it as firmly as he could, And began.

Sunday’s wings all immediately flared up, His pupils blew wide and you could see noticeable effort of him trying to remain still. He was clenching Welt’s hand so tightly his skin was going white.

When Ratio switched it to the last vial, Sunday let out a distressed noise exit his throat. His time to tolerate this was running out quickly.

The second Ratio pulled out the needle, applied the cotton and tape bandage, and removed the band, Sunday let out a huge sigh of relief.

A few tears went down his face, But he did manage to remain relatively calm.

Welt rubbed his shoulders until he stopped crying. Then Ratio stepped out of the room for Sunday to change back. Welt helped, With Sunday thankfully not passing out again, And in a matter of five minutes Sunday was back in the wheelchair, Now holding a bag of items with the blanket. The wheelchair was from the Space Station, But they insisted they take it for free when they got to the pharmacist counter. Another benefit to a crew like the Astral Express.

Once the medication was filled the three of them all headed to board the Express. There was a ramp put down to make it so he didn’t have to get up. Welt probably contacted Himeko while he wasn’t paying attention.

March and Dan Heng were both waiting in the entry car. March gave him a worrying smile. Dan Heng gave a small nod.

“We’re going to get him settled, Then we can talk.”

“No rush!”

“Alright.”

“Let’s get you to bed.” Welt spoke softly as he pushed Sunday all the way to the stairs. Then he moved to scoop Sunday back up into his arms yet again. He didn’t stop until he was tucked back into the bed. He refilled his water and replaced it. He placed his phone on the nightstand.

Sunday had a new set of pajamas to change into on the bed. The sheets were freshly washed and the bed was perfectly made. The entire room was tidy; Things were put away that weren’t before. Things were dusted. He could tell it was done for him. It was very kind.

Ratio had brought up the bag and put it on the ground. He unfolded the crutches and put them on the front of the bed temporarily. Then he picked the bag back up and started putting everything on the space behind the bed. He put the paper note on top of his phone. He grabbed some of the random pieces of metal Sunday couldn’t envision the purpose of and made the portable IV holder like it was second nature. Then he walked away and started looking into another bag he had brought into the room. He pulled out the proper supplies for the IV and placed it on the nightstand as well.

Then Welt and Ratio discussed all of Sunday’s medications. Ratio laid out a very detailed plan of when to take them and why. Which ones needed a meal. Sunday took the fever reducers immediately, And the rest were going to wait until after he had gotten some sleep. It was only 6pm, So he could get a few hours before he needed to eat. Especially after everything he had been dealing with.

The pain medications were warned to make him pretty out of it. Luckily he didn’t have to take them for a few hours.

“Alright. I need to put the IV in before I can depart.” Ratio was standing a little closer than his previous distance in the office. “Do you need a few minutes?”

Wing went downward. Welt had already moved to sit on the bed next to Sunday’s leg and hold his hand.

“Alright.” Ratio quickly and gently applied the IV with ease. Sunday winced and gripped Welt’s hand with a deathgrip, But he didn’t cry this time. He seemed more comfortable handling needles in a more familiar environment. Less medical. “Good. I believe I am done here. You should try and get some rest.”

“..Thank you.”

“Happily.” Ratio gave him a genuine small smile. Sunday almost flinched. “I’ll see you tomorrow. Make sure to contact me if you need any assistance.”

Ratio walked out the door. Welt walked up next to the bed and took back his typical chair.

“I gotta go see him off and check in with everyone.” He put a reassuring hand on Sunday’s arm. “You did really well. All things considered. I’m sure your brain is going a mile a minute.”

Sunday nodded.

“Do you want me to come back and stay if you’re asleep?” He asked softly. “Or do you want a few hours of alone time? Even if it’s just while you’re sleeping.”

“Alone time would be..nice.”

“Alright. You got it.” Welt smiled. He stood up and gave one last reassuring squeeze. “You did great. Make sure to text or call if you need anything.”

“I will.”

Then finally, Sunday was left fully alone without supervision. He let out a large sigh of relief.

He was out the second his head hit the pillow. Before Welt had even shut off the lights on his way out.

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

Welt walked downstairs to greet Ratio standing with everyone in the party car. He gave a small hand gesture to acknowledge his appearance.

“Thank you for waiting. I’m fairly certain Sunday was asleep before I even left the room.” Welt chuckled, then turned his attention to the rest of the crew. Pom Pom and Shush included. “Right. Things are..worse than I expected. I asked Veritas to stay behind to help explain everything and make a good gameplan.”

“I already informed them of that part.” Himeko nodded, sipping at a cup of coffee only she could enjoy. “We’ve been waiting in anticipation for quite a while. Especially Stelle.”

“He texted me saying he’s disabled. A lot of things have been texted to me today.” Stelle sighed, Her head dramatically falling into her hand. “Long story. Make sure to text Robin if she hasn’t already gotten to you, Yang.”

“I saw her messages a minute ago. Once we’re done here, I’ll respond.” Welt nodded. “Sounds like you’ve had an eventful evening.”

Stelle just groaned. She regretted meddling. She didn’t at all, but she did.

“Right. Well, I’ll begin.” Ratio rubbed the top of his nose before he continued. “I am waiting on the ability to give proper scanning and examinations for a multitude of issues. But even without that information, I can say confidently he is disabled for life.”

“It’s mostly his wings. The one’s on his back.” Welt explained. “He shouldn’t even be able to walk in his condition. The fact that he can is a stroke in luck itself.”

“There are also correlating signs pointing to an immune disorder of some sort.” Ratio added. “His head wings, The ones clipped in his adolescence, Have already started to manifest in vertigo and a lack of coordination. It may be too late to recover that damage, But I intend to try.”

“He just has a case of the flu.” Welt shook his head. “It’s one of the signs pointing to a bigger issue. We will need to all wear masks whenever we’re out and about. Take a shower or bath whenever we come back aboard. Try to clean our hands more often. This was a bug none of us even felt.”

“Jeez..” March shook her head. “It is bad.”

“We are not yet finished.” Ratio sighed. “He is severely underweight. If he loses even a pound I’ll need to put him on a feeding tube. His entire body is frail and malnourished. His joints are extraordinarily weak, His skin is easy to tear, His body is prone to swelling. He will likely need every single joint wrapped to avoid further injury, Even with the mobility aides I have been able to supply.”

“He’s going to be moving around on crutches in Stelle’s room until he’s doing better. The wheelchair will remain here until he’s officially cleared to walk everywhere.” Welt turned his direction to Himeko. “I believe we need to expedite Sunday’s proper room. No more waiting until he’s decided if he’s staying. We’re leaving him at a deficit if he cannot fully move around the space he is in.”

“Agreed.”

“I’ll see to it!” Pom Pom saluted. “The only one who cleans properly is unable to. I’ll do anything I can to help!”

“Thank you, Conductor.”

“That is the general sum of things.” Ratio turned his head to the side. “I have left Welt detailed explanations for what needs to occur. I don’t believe I need to be here for that process.”

“Not at all, Thank you for the time.” Welt nodded in his direction. “We appreciate it.”

“Again, Has nothing to do with you.” Ratio sighed as he started to walk towards the exit. “I don’t like repeating myself.”

“Right.” Welt chuckled. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Ratio nodded as he exited through the door. Pom Pom followed to seal the door back up afterwards.

“Okay what was that about.” March giggled.

“Oh, I think Ratio flirted with him in the middle of the visit.” Welt chuckled. “Left him a note too.”

“Ughhhhhh” Stelle groaned. “I’m definitely going to be asked about that.”

“Girl, You’re the one who meddled.” March shook her head. “You gotta learn to not get involved to properly enjoy the gossip.”

“It was so tempting though..”

“Well, We should discuss this..later.” Welt stretched. He moved to sit down on the couch with everyone else. “As entertaining as it is, We have more important things to discuss.”

“..Right.” March nodded. “It sounds really…rough.”

“He was likely putting it off because he knew it would be.” Himeko shook her head. “There's nothing to be done about that. We just have to figure out how to be the best support possible.”

The Astral Express crew spent an entire hour making up a detailed plan of care. Everyone would check in on their own. Everyone would offer things to do. The kids would visit Belobog to see if they could get their piano repaired. Pom Pom and Himeko would focus their time on renovating the old storage car so Sunday could have his own room. They would make steps towards letting him have some freedom while also giving him ways to rehabilitate. It was a good plan.

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

-Robin has come online.-

Robin: I apologize for not waiting for the answer to come to me..

Robin: But Stelle got a text from Sunday during the visit. I heard he’s labeled as disabled.

Robin: Please update me when you can. I’m sure he’ll get to it, But I’m a bit stressed about it.

Robin: I’d like to see the records for myself, If I could.

Robin: Get back to me when you can. Thank you.

-Robin has gone offline.-

-Welt has come online.-

Welt: Sorry for the wait, I had to do a rundown meeting with the crew.

Welt: Do you want me to try to summarize or would you just like the records right away?

-Robin has come online.-

Robin: Records, Please.

Welt: [Sunday documents]

Welt: It’s not good news.

Welt: I’ll send you our plan for care. I’m sure you’ll appreciate it.

Welt: [Sunny bright again plan]

Welt: Apologies for the name. Stelle decided on it.

Robin: Stelle does seem to enjoy her own brand of entertainment.

Robin: Give me a few minutes. I’ll get back to you.

Welt: Take your time. He’s currently asleep in bed.

Robin: I suspected a lot of this..but it is worse than I thought.

Robin: Has he talked at all about anything?

Robin: I’m worried he's gonna take the disabled label poorly.

Robin: He’s not a person who enjoys a lack of control.

Welt: He hasn’t. I can’t tell if it’s him not wanting to speak, Or just the pain his throat has been giving him.

Welt: He did use a big blast. I don’t think it's absorbed into his head yet.

Robin: Right. That makes sense.

Robin: I will do anything I can to help. Please let me know if there's anything to do.

Welt: Absolutely.

Robin: I’m relieved he will be relocated. I don’t think those stairs are too good for him in the long run, If he’s not supposed to be walking.

Welt: It’s our biggest priority. The Piano is so he has an activity that isn’t very physically demanding but will still encourage his muscles to move.

Robin: Right. Good idea. He loves playing the piano.

Welt: It was Dan Heng’s suggestion.

Robin: Thank you for this

Robin: So much

Welt: I’m sorry I couldn’t get the news to you quicker.

Robin: No, It’s fine, Really

Robin: I’m just relieved to have the information. Can you make sure I get any updates?

Welt: Of course.

Robin: I know I just visited but maybe I should plan for another…

Robin: My schedule is so tight already. But I may reach out to try.

Welt: You’re welcome aboard whenever.

Robin: Right. Thank you.

Welt: Are you handling this alright?

Robin: Oh I’m totally freaking out

Robin: But I have a therapist(That is not you, Nor Stelle) to talk about that with

Welt: Good. I just wanted to check in.

Welt: Wait, Stelle?

Robin: Oh it was a whole thing

Robin: With Aventurine

Robin: I have to get back to work. I’d just ask her about it.

Welt: Ah, Alright.

Robin: Thank you so so so much again

Robin: I appreciate you all so much

-Robin has gone offline.

-Welt has gone offline.-

Chapter Text

Sunday woke up three hours later. He woke up naturally, but there was a knock on the door just a few minutes after he opened his eyes. He had managed to sit himself up and take a couple sips of water this time. The medicine was good. He barely felt feverish at all. He might not be massacred by emotions every time he’s around someone.

It was Welt who had knocked. He entered and had a quick smile across his face.

“It’s nice to see you awake.” He sounded like he meant it. Sunday could feel the relief tickle the back of his neck. Much better than before. “I was about to wake you for the next set of medication.”

“I feel better.” Sunday put the cup of water back down on the nightstand. “Medicine works.”

“Even better.” Welt had come with a small cup of pudding. It was Sunday’s favorite brand. How did he? Oh, Robin. Robin definitely told him. He handed it to him with a spoon. “It’s not very nutritious, But It’s enough to meet the requirement for the meds. I figured once you have the anti nausea and appetite meds then we could attempt a full meal. Plus..I think you deserve to eat something you love.”

“Thank you. I..” Sunday looked at the cup and then looked back. His eyes were a lot less frantic. He gingerly opened up the top and ate a spoonful. “I appreciate it.”

“Sometimes the simple things are what makes that difference.” Welt pulled out two different pills from the bottle on the nightstand. He also pulled out a small spray bottle and put it on the top. “I cannot make you feel better, but I can for a few minutes. If you get what I mean.”

“I do.” Sunday nodded. “It’s very nice.”

“Good.” Welt grabbed his cup of water and put it up to Sunday’s mouth, then handed him the pills. Sunday took them. He let him take another sip and then put it back on the nightstand. “The spray is to help your throat. Spray it whenever it feels sore or if you’re coughing. It’ll help. I know it may be gross, but make sure to spit out any phlegm too. I got you a little trashcan with a lid for it.”

Sunday nodded. He took another bite of the pudding.

“I can get out of your hair now if you’d like.” Welt gestured softly with one hand. “But, I thought you might want to talk. You went through a lot.”

“I do. Want to talk, I mean.” Sunday took another bite. It was better than he remembered. He hadn’t had this brand in years. Since Robin.. “I just woke up. Could I eat for a few minutes first? Check my phone?”

“Of course.” Welt smiled. “Oh, There's a note on your phone too. Don’t miss it. I’ll go make you some tea. I moved a kettle up here.”

Sunday picked up the note and his phone. He unfolded the small piece of paper and held it in his hands first.

‘Sunday,

You seem to be a person who would thrive with a physical reminder. So here I am.

We’re in a special situation right now. I don’t think anyone else would be proper or desired for your care. As long as I’m not your therapist, I don’t want to wash away that evening.

I know nothing happened. I think all three of us agree that something should have.

Text me. Not just about your health. We should talk about ourselves.

Veritas Ratio.’

He blinked a few times. He wasn’t very surprised after the ‘Interest’ drop. It did make his heart flutter to get a paper note. They should talk. Wait, All three?

He should check his phone. He had multiple messages.

Robin, Stelle, March, Ratio, And…A new number. Huh.

He started with Robin.

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

-Robin has come online.-

Robin: I got the details about the visit

Robin: We should talk?

Robin: I love you.

Robin: I hope you’re doing okay.

-Sunday has come online-

Sunday: I’m sorry i didn't text you before i slept

Sunday: I was so tired.

Robin: Sunday!

Sunday: The medicine is very effective.

Sunday: I’m freaked out of my mind but at least I'm not melting.

Sunday: Although I just took pain meds

Sunday: Which will make me loopy

Sunday: Maybe I’ll relax maybe I'll explode

Robin: Ah, You seem a bit more like yourself again.

Robin: But the freaked out version of yourself

Sunday: I woke up around 8 minutes ago

Sunday: I have a bunch of texts to respond to

Sunday: And I got a handwritten note saying

Sunday: That Veritas wants to talk about us

Robin: Ohh yeah

Robin: You’re freaking out but you’re okay? Not panicking beyond belief?

Sunday: Yeah. I think

Sunday: I just agreed to talk about everything with Mister Yang

Sunday: So would it be alright if we talked about it later?

Robin: Of course.

Robin: I do know everything. I just wanna know what's going on in your head.

Sunday: I promise we can talk about it soon

Sunday: I’m just overloaded

Sunday: And I didn’t blast you with a large harmonious blast so bad I had to be woken up with smelling salts

Sunday: I really need to give a proper apology for that to both of them.

Robin: It’s okay! Really! I’d only be upset if I didn't have the knowledge.

Robin: I’m happy you have multiple sources to support you now.

Robin: Plus I kinda have a lot of work to do so it might be smart for me to not be on my phone for a while..

Robin: I’ll be able to focus more now that I’ve heard from you.

Sunday: I’m gonna text everyone else back then.

Sunday: Go focus on what you need to do. I love you

Robin: I love you too, Brother.

-Robin has gone offline.-

-Sunday has gone offline.-

—--

-March has come online.-

March: Hey! Let me know if you want us to stop by. Offer still open

March: I suspect stelle will text you too. No rush or worries!

-March has gone offline.-

-Sunday cas come online.-

Sunday: I’ll let you two know. I just woke up.

Sunday: Thank you. I appreciate it

-Sunday has gone offline.

—
-Stelle has come online.-

Stelle: hey sunny

Stelle: just checking in on my current favorite guy (there is a ranking you will have to compete in one day)

Stelle: jk

Stelle: not really tho

Stelle: anyways offer is still open for three people to come and annoy you

Stelle: hope ur doing ok man. Its fair if ur not

Stelle: its normal to be super overloaded

-Stelle has gone offline.-

-Sunday has come online.-

Sunday: I’ll let you know. Miss March texted as well.

Sunday: Thank you for the kind words. I appreciate it.

-Stelle has come online.-

Sunday: Please do not text me with some weird reply because I said something nice.

Stelle: ill keep my eye out

-Sunday has gone offline.-

Stelle: ok damn didnt even get to try

—----

-Aventurine has come online.-

Aventurine: If it isn’t the most handsome man of the Express.

Aventurine: Look, Whatever is going on with you, I hope you know I don’t hate you. I don’t hold anything of what happened over your head.

Aventurine: In fact, I’d like to talk about it. In person.

Aventurine: No pressure on when.

Aventurine: Take care of yourself, Birdie. Don’t be getting all sad when you think of me. I’m thinking of you too.

-Aventurine has gone offline.-

-Aventurine has come online.-

Aventurine: I should probably mention Veritas isn’t the one who told me, Or gave me your number.

Aventurine: Robin told me. Although Stelle was keeping the secret from me for a while.

Aventurine: Feel better soon. Don’t lose my number ♡

-Aventurine has gone offline.-

—----

Sunday was going to explode.

He sighed as he pulled Stelle’s contact back open.

—----

-Sunday has come online.-

Stelle: oh back so soon

Stelle: wait no i totally know what htis is about

Sunday: Unfortunately for you Robin just informed me she needed to focus on work.

Sunday: Aventurine texted me

Sunday: What do I do

Stelle: well the hope is that u text him back

Sunday: I just woke up

Sunday: I will feel too guilty to leave this alone

Sunday: What do I do

Stelle: okay what did he send what are we working with what are the woes

Sunday: [What do I do.]

Stelle: ok damn

Sunday: Veritas left me a note as well.

Stelle: detailing

Sunday: That he would like to talk about us

Sunday: Fairly explicitly

Stelle: damn

Stelle: okay so whats the problem

Sunday: How do I reply

Sunday: Without being pathetic

Sunday: While also relaying I feel the same

Stelle: ‘hey not tryna sound pathetic rn but i feel the same’

Sunday: That is not helpful.

Stelle: is it really not

Stelle: or am i right and ur overthinking it

Sunday: Fair enough.

Stelle: since when did i become ur love guru

Sunday: Since you meddled in my love life.

Sunday: That I thought was dead.

Stelle: ok fair enough

Stelle: alright what about rephrasing it a little

Stelle: ‘I am currently feeling like ass but thank you for reaching out. I would love to talk. Can we discuss when soon?’

Sunday: That is a start. I think.

Sunday: I’ll leave you alone and reply. Thank you.

Stelle: wait wait

Stelle: im not tryna push u away here big man

Stelle: im just joking

Sunday: I know.

Sunday: I do think it is a little unbecoming of me to have you help me write the message.

Stelle: how abt u write it out and then ill ghost read it for u

Stelle: im pretty close with aventurine

Stelle: get my grubby little aventurine knowing hands all over this

Sunday: That..sounds good.

Stelle: hell yeah write that message king

Sunday: “Thank you for reaching out. I know you’re aware I’m ill, but I’ve been handed a plate of things to digest. I want to ensure I can communicate properly, as it’s what you deserve.’

Sunday: ‘I’m relieved to hear you don’t hate me. I want to talk about it. I’m very very sorry.’

Sunday: ‘I’ll keep your number. I can reach out when I feel like my head is a bit more on my shoulders. I need to talk with Veritas too.’

Sunday: ‘I liked what was going on. I’ve been thinking of it too.’

Sunday: Is that good

Stelle: yeah man thats great

Stelle: send it

Stelle: do u need help for the message to ratio too or am i freed from ur manly woes

Stelle: not like i have anything to do im just curious

Sunday: I think I’ve got it.

Sunday: The intentions in that note were clear. I just wasn’t expecting Aventurine to be the one to reach out to me.

Sunday: Thank you. I won’t issue a compliment so you don’t weird me out.

-Sunday has gone offline.-

—--

-Aventurine has come online.-

Aventurine: If it isn’t the most handsome man of the Express.

Aventurine: Look, Whatever is going on with you, I hope you know I don’t hate you. I don’t hold anything of what happened over your head.

Aventurine: In fact, I’d like to talk about it. In person.

Aventurine: No pressure on when.

Aventurine: Take care of yourself, Birdie. Don’t be getting all sad when you think of me. I’m thinking of you too.

-Aventurine has gone offline.-

-Aventurine has come online.-

Aventurine: I should probably mention Veritas isn’t the one who told me, Or gave me your number.

Aventurine: Robin told me. Although Stelle was keeping the secret from me for a while.

Aventurine: Feel better soon. Don’t lose my number ♡

-Aventurine has gone offline.-

-Sunday has come online.-

Sunday: Thank you for reaching out. I know you’re aware I’m ill, but I’ve been handed a plate of things to digest. I want to ensure I can communicate properly, as it’s what you deserve.

Sunday: I’m relieved to hear you don’t hate me. I want to talk about it soon. I’m very very sorry.

Sunday: I’ll keep your number. I can reach out when I feel like my head is a bit more on my shoulders. I need to talk with Veritas too.

Sunday: I liked what was going on. I’ve been thinking of it too.

-Aventurine has come online.-

Aventurine: That sounds great

Aventurine: I appreciate the apology, truly

Aventurine: Are you doing okay?

Sunday: Shouldn’t I be the one asking that?

Aventurine: Don’t dodge the question, birdie

Sunday: I am as okay as I could be.

Sunday: It’s a very very long explanation.

Aventurine: I’d love a long explanation from you

Aventurine: But we can do it another time

Aventurine: If you’d like

Sunday: I would.

Sunday: I already have three people to talk to about everything and one of them is Veritas.

Sunday: So I’ll be honest I will be very quickly talked out

Aventurine: No worries

Sunday: We can talk about it in person. Alongside the other topic?

Aventurine: Sounds like a plan

Aventurine: I hope you feel better

Aventurine: No rush on timing

Sunday: Thank you again. I’m so sorry

Sunday: I’ll reach out soon.

-Sunday has gone offline.-

—--

-Veritas Ratio has come online.-

Veritas Ratio: I left you a note on your phone. My prediction is that you will see it before you see this.

Veritas Ratio: If you need anything, Let me know.

Veritas Ratio: It’s rare for someone to truly spark my interest. I don’t wish to lose the opportunity.

Veritas Ratio: I know you will need time. Do not rush.

Veritas Ratio: I also know you must not be doing well. Please do not think that you can only bring your medical concerns to me.

-Veritas Ratio has gone offline.-

-Sunday has come online.-

Sunday: I got your note.

Sunday: First, I want to apologize for the blast. I know you and Mister Yang were unharmed, I still should not have put you in danger like that. I couldn’t have stopped it, but I still caused it. I hope otherwise I did not bother you.

Sunday: I really don’t do well at doctors. I was already in a bad mental state. I’m sorry it affected you at all.

Sunday: I agree with you. On all of it.

Sunday: I’ll be honest, I want most of a day to just

Sunday: Clear my head out.

-Veritas Ratio has come online.-

Sunday: But I want to talk. Soon.

Sunday: Aventurine talked to me too.

Veritas Ratio: Has he now?

Sunday: It was definitely due to Miss Stelle and Robin’s meddling.

Sunday: Which was likely caused by you flirting with me.

Veritas Ratio: So you noticed?

Sunday: I thought I was insane at first but yes.

Sunday: You were quite clear at the appointment.

Veritas Ratio: That was simply true.

Veritas Ratio: I am doing this for you, Not because I owe the Express or think of them as anything needing to owe me.

Veritas Ratio: They're fine. Welt gives good conversation. I just don’t want them to bother me to try to repay me.

Sunday: I suppose.

Sunday: You did flat out say you had interest in me?

Veritas Ratio: Again, Simply true.

Sunday: You’re very direct.

Veritas Ratio: No one would ever attempt to talk to me without expecting such.

Sunday: I say it as a compliment.

Veritas Ratio: Good.

Veritas Ratio: How are you feeling?

Sunday: Your medicine is working great

Sunday: I no longer feel like I am melting.

Sunday: I took pain medicine and appetite stimulants a bit ago. With pudding.

Sunday: I’m overwhelmed but all things considered I feel like a new person compared to three hours ago.

Veritas Ratio: That’s good.

Veritas Ratio: I was warned about your condition, But it truly is concerning.

Veritas Ratio: Please take care of yourself.

Sunday: You’re a lot sweeter than people say you are.

Veritas Ratio: I don’t like those people.

Veritas Ratio: As for the apology. I appreciate it. But please do not feel guilty. It did not hurt after a few seconds. I barely even stumbled. Welt only fell because he was in a precarious position. I am sure if you were full of energy it could do damage. However you were not.

Veritas Ratio: It is completely normal that you have issues with doctors. I hope your experiences in my care can help improve your experiences.

Sunday: Thank you.

Sunday: Believe it or not, That is probably the best proper doctor's visit I have ever had.

Sunday: I was a lot less terrified than I expected.

Veritas Ratio: I’m happy to hear that.

Sunday: I just spent the last ten minutes replying to text messages. I need to have multiple more conversations. Would you mind if I picked this back up later?

Veritas Ratio: Of course not.

Sunday: You’re visiting to check in tomorrow. Then?

Veritas Ratio: I have the time. I’ll see you then.

Veritas Ratio: I still need the story, Too.

Sunday: I’ll look forward to it.

-Sunday has gone offline.-

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

He gave a big deep sigh as he put his phone down. Welt chuckled as he walked over with a cup of tea, flavored with extra honey. And a little bit of vanilla.

“Remind me to never tell Miss Stelle anything about my love life ever again.”

“Ah, The meddling.” He shook his head. “You were texting for a while. How much damage did she do?”

“She didn’t damage anything.” He took another spoonful of the pudding. He was slowly eating it as he texted. He was almost finished. “She did a very nice thing that has worked out very well for me but I had to text 5 different people back all at once right after I woke up.”

“Yeah, Her meddling is almost always a good thing.” Welt gave a soft laugh and sat in his typical chair. “I assume one of them was Robin? She was pretty worried.”

“Yes. I texted her back first.” Sunday nodded. “I promised to talk to her about everything soon. She’s busy. It can wait.”

“Good.” Welt hummed. Sunday ate the last bite of the pudding and then placed the empty cup on the nightstand. Welt traded the empty cup with the cup of tea. Then walked to throw it away and put the spoon on the counter in Stelle’s mini kitchen. “We need to wrap your joints up, Are you awake enough?

“I think so.” Sunday nodded. Welt walked back to the bed and grabbed two of the bandage wraps first. He pulled his typical chair up and sat down. “I’m sorry about the blast. I know you weren’t hurt, But I shouldn’t have put you in danger like that. You could have been hurt.”

“I accept your apology, Sunday.” Welt waited for him to pull the blanket off of his legs. Once he did, He gently moved the pajama pants up so he could access his knees. He grabbed a pillow and put it underneath his thighs. Sunday winced when his legs went up. “I’m hard to hurt. You don’t need to worry about that anymore. I’m not even a little bit sore.”

“Okay.” He winced again as Welt started to gently wrap one of his knees. He needed it to be tight, so there was a good amount of pressure. “Thank you.”

Welt finished wrapping his knees as quickly as he could. He removed the pillow and placed Sunday’s legs back down on the bed. He replaced the blanket. Then he stood up and grabbed the compression wrist braces, alongside a few more of the smaller bandage wraps.

“Let’s skip your ankles for tonight. Do you think you can get these on yourself?” He handed them over. Sunday managed to get them on his hands. It wasn’t the same as his gloves, but it was still nice to have his hands mostly covered again. He flexed his fingers and his wrist a few times. It would take a bit to get used to, but his hands already felt better. “Great. Alright, I wanna get your elbows too. Then I think we’re good for the night. Tomorrow we can start doing all of your joints. Sounds good?”

Sunday nodded. His arms were held with care as Welt wrapped his elbows. Once he secured it he sat back in the chair.

“How’s it feeling?”

“Weird.” Sunday scrunched his nose. He moved his arms around a bit. Open and close. Rotated his shoulder forward and back to feel his elbows move. “But I can’t deny it makes a noticeable difference.”

“We can try to get something that works better for you in the long run .” Welt leaned forward on his knee and gestured with one hand. “I’ll be honest, I just don’t know where to look. I’m sure we can find something that’s a bit more comfortable.”

“Thank you for thinking of my comforts at all.”

“Happily.” He gave a smile. “You said you wanted to talk about everything?”

“Right.” Sunday nodded. “I’ll be honest. I don’t particularly know where to start. It will likely take me a few minutes to get my thoughts in order.”

“That’s alright. “ Welt paused for a second, seemingly to think about something. Sunday could sense his emotions. He could feel the concern prickles across his body like goosebumps. “ If you’d like, we can talk about something I wanted to bring up with you. Nothing bad.”

“Oh, Sure.” Sunday looked over at him with a soft look. “What is it?”

“Well. We would like to offer you the title of the Nameless. Officially.” Welt sat up straighter. He had a very genuine expression on his face. “If you accepted, It would not mean you could not leave the Express at any time. Your path can still remain how you believed it would go. We wanted to take you to our first world before we extended it, but due to our now changed timeline I didn’t see much reason to wait.”

“You’d want me to be a full Trailblazer?” Sunday asked. His eyes were wide as he spoke. He was completely surprised. “Even with me like this? Trailblazing is not an easy path to stride. Few can meet the cut.”

“We think you can.” Welt shook his head. He put his hands together and crossed his fingers in front of him. “You need rehabilitation, Yes. That does not stop you from being capable. I think Stelle was talking about investigating into a wheelchair that can handle rougher terrain, At least to borrow one for a day.”

“Oh.” Welt had brought out a token. The symbol of the Nameless. Sunday took it and held it in his palm with care. “Is there a reason you’re mentioning this now?”

“We’re trying to renovate a storage car to give you a proper room.” Welt nodded. “It felt more right for this to come first. There’s zero pressure, And we will likely continue renovation even if you decline. We just wanted to give you the choice first.”

“You’re..renovating a room for me?”

“Stelle will need her room back eventually, And I’m sure you’re not very comfortable not having your own space. Putting you back in the guest room would feel cruel.”

“I..” Sunday’s expression went from surprised to bewildered. He looked between Welt and the token in his hand a few times. “You’re sure? You’ve been very forgiving, Really, But…”

“Yes. We’re sure.” Welt relaxed backward again. “It was unanimous. Everyone agreed.”

Sunday looked at Welt one last time before his eyes focused on the token.

He could imagine where it would go. Where it would be placed; Aligned on his coat perfectly. Almost like they sized it with that in mind. He didn’t have it in hand to confirm, But it was too perfect to be denied.

He had always wanted to cover that red mark. This would make it feel more whole.

It had a decent weight. Well made.

It was made for him.

Back on Penacony he had a talk with them. How the Nameless achieved his dream, Just on a small scale. He showed his flawed thinking. He showed how his dream fell short. They showed that theirs didn’t. They both had heart but only one side could actually achieve.

They always did align from the same place. Robin and His dream felt like it fit perfectly into their puzzle. He had considered it before. He had been considering it over and over in his head for weeks.

He told them then. Few can endure this path. They had a fallen Aeon.

But it was one he had always seen as worth faith. Unlike ENA.

Penacony had always started as a journey for the Trailblaze. He loved the stories when he was young. He watched the Clockie show into adulthood. Robin did too. He was sure it had taken part in crafting their dream into what it was today.

He thought he would be ready to say no. Now he’s struggling to even consider that option.

Seeing the token in his hand, He couldn’t deny that it felt right.

It felt whole. Normal. Correct.

“I accept.” He curled his fingers around the token. Held it. Cherished it. “I’ll do what I can to ensure you do not regret it.”

“I have a feeling we won’t end up doing so.” Welt smiled. Sunday could feel happiness radiate throughout his chest. From both of them. It felt odd. “Welcome to the Express.”

“Thank you.” Sunday finally tore his eyes away from his hand. He looked back to Welt fully. He couldn’t help the beaming smile on his cheeks. His eyes were slightly welled up with tears. “Truly.”

“We can celebrate once you feel a bit better.” Welt chuckled. “Stelle and March do not hold back on parties.”

“I couldn’t imagine that they do, No.” Sunday shook his head with a soft laugh. “I’m grateful.”

“I’m glad you are. We will have a few questions about some things for your room, But right now it’s mostly cleaning. We’ll get to it when we have the chance.”

“Alright. Just let me know.” Sunday sighed. “It’s not like I can do much right now. I’m sorry I can’t assist.”

“Don’t worry about it. It’s a gift, not an obligation. Speaking of which, How are you feeling about everything?”

“It’s a lot.” He turned his gaze back upon his hand. “Suffocating. I suppose.”

“That’s an understandable reaction. It is a lot.”

“It’s complicated.” He shook his head. “There’s a lot to say. If I’m being honest, I have too much to say. Too few words to describe it. “

“You have my ears.”

“Right.” Sunday swallowed. “It’s a lot of change. Very overwhelming. I feel like I have to relearn the true basics of my life all over again. I’m already relearning so much. It’s like..a big blanket of defeat. One that I can’t seem to shake off. I should have listened to my body sooner. I always knew I had problems. That my body wasn’t quite right. That you aren’t supposed to be in the amount of pain I have been in. I was so terrified of my Father, So wary of the consequences that I refused to investigate. I could have. I just didn’t. I feel like I’ve cut my future off before I could even grasp what it could be. I’ve ruined my own life. The life I wasn’t even living.”

“It’s not your fault, Sunday.” Welt shook his head. “Yes, You could have gone to a doctor sooner. Would you have gotten the expert required? I don’t think so. Would you have possibly put yourself at risk? Yes. You were raised to be forced to choose to not investigate. At the end of the day, The only man who harbors any fault is your father, And maybe the brutes who did it themselves.”

“He’s dead.” He sighed. “I can’t do anything about that. I can’t act or change or feel anything about it anymore. Believe me, I’ve tried. I just feel numb. I always felt like my life wasn’t my own, But now it’s like my body isn’t mine either. I’m stuck to being a shell that I no longer know how to control. What is ‘me’ anymore? The only thing I have is blaming myself. I can’t control anything else.”

“I get it.” He nodded. His face was compassionate, Not that Sunday was looking. He could feel it though. It was like his veins were all getting a soft hug. “Not to the full extent. I just know what it’s like to feel like your body isn’t your own. It’s oppressive. Impossible to ignore.”

“That’s a good way of phrasing it.” Sunday rolled the token around in his hand. It felt nice. “I’ve lost all my normalcy, And I was just getting the pieces of it back. Finding a new rhythm.“

“I can’t imagine that feeling very motivating.”

“It isn’t.” Sunday shook his head. “I don’t want to be a burden, Either. You all are going to such lengths for me already. I only became a member a few minutes ago. I can’t reciprocate. Not in any way that I know how.”

“You aren’t a burden on us.” Welt spoke a bit more firmly. “You should talk to Dan Heng and March about that. For a long time they felt very similar. I’m sure talking about it with them will at least give you relevancy. It might be comforting too.”

“I’m supposed to text for the three to come up when we’re done.” Sunday nodded. “So I will.”

“You’re doing well. All things considered.” Welt leaned forward to put one reassuring hand on Sunday’s shoulder. He looked back over. “I mean that. You’ll regain your footing before you know it.”

“Thank you, Mister Yang.” He sighed. “I’ll try to keep it in mind. Robin always says I need to give myself more grace.”

“You know, You don’t have to call me that. Welt is just fine.” He squeezed the shoulder before withdrawing his hand. “Stelle March and Dan Heng all just insist. But they do tend to call me Yang without formalities fairly often. It’s up to you.”

“..Welt it is, Then.” Sunday hesitated on his name, But managed to commit. “I am a part of the crew now. I suppose it makes sense for me to try to lose the formality.”

“Is there a reason you’re so stuck to it?”

“Father.” Sunday shrugged. His thumb ended up tracing the imprints on the token over and over. “If I did not call him Father I could only call him Master Dreamweaver or Mister Gopher Wood. It just stuck. I was put in isolation once for calling a teacher by their first name. Haven’t faltered since.”

“I see.” Welt gave him a soft smile. “Well, There’s no problem if it sticks around. You have no obligation here. I feel like it would feel a bit odd if I didn’t say you could call me by my first name at this point.”

“I suppose so.” Sunday faltered for a moment before opening his mouth again. “How do you view me? Really?”

“What do you mean?”

“Ah, Well..” Sunday cleared his throat. “Robin talked to me. Before she departed. She referenced a conversation I had with her when I was very feverish. Admittedly, I was just rambling and overwhelmed. But she said you meant to be implying you could be.. A father figure.“

“I see. She didn’t talk about our talk with you?”

Sunday shook his head no.

“She came to me with concerns, I heard her out, We resolved her worries.” Welt explained, incredibly simply. “She seemed to freeze so I talked about my son. Told her I know what it looks like to need a parent. A father. I told her I saw it in you.”

“Oh.” Sunday’s voice cracked as he spoke. Mostly out of surprise. “I see.”

“She wasn’t lying. Or misinterpreting.” Welt crossed his fingers again. “I even admitted it may be a bit selfish of me. I have a void wanting to be filled too.”

“Oh.” He blinked a few times. He swallowed. “Right.”

“It was a good talk. You should ask her about it. Say I gave full rights.” Welt took a deep breath. “I just don’t wanna speak for her.”

“I will.” Sunday paused for a few seconds. “Sorry. I just wasn’t expecting that answer.”

“It’s alright.” Welt chuckled. “I wouldn’t have been expecting it either.”

“I don’t know what to say.” Sunday shook his head. “That’s incredibly sweet. Thank you.”

“I meant it then, And I mean it now.” Welt stretched his back. “You’re welcome. Though I really don’t believe you need to be thanking me for that.”

“It’s a very kind sentiment.” Sunday fidgeted with the token in his hand again. “Even if I don’t know how to process it.”

“Robin said the same thing.”

“Of course she did.” Sunday chuckled. “I don’t think I have much else to say...At least for now. I feel a bit better.”

“That’s fine.” Welt stood up and walked to refill Sunday’s water. He returned and replaced it. “You can talk to me about it whenever. It’s a rough transition.”

“I’ll keep it in mind.” Sunday nodded. “I should probably let..Stelle March and Dan Heng know they can come up. It’s getting late.”

“It is.” Welt nodded back. “I’m going to head to bed. Do you think you can ask them to help take the braces off before you sleep?”

“Yes.”

“Great.” Welt ruffled Sunday’s hair again. “I’ll get out of here then. Sleep well.”

“You too.” Sunday cleared his throat. “Thank you for the talk. I appreciate everything you’ve been doing for me. Truly.”

“Anytime, Sunday.”

Welt gave him a smile before he headed out the door. Then Sunday pulled up his phone. He took a photo of the token in his hand before he gently placed it in his lap.

—------------

-Sunday has come online.-

Sunday: You three can come up now.

Sunday: Although, I should probably warn you that the pain medicine I took will be kicking in soon.

Sunday: So I might be pretty out of it. I’m not sure what I’m meant to be expecting.

-Stelle has come online.-

Stelle: sounds good man

Stelle: we’ll be up in like

Stelle: 2 seconds

Stelle: marchy wants to grab some snacks

Sunday: Alright.

-Sunday has gone offline.-

—--------

-Sunday has come online.-

Sunday: I know you’re busy. So don’t rush to get back to me.

Sunday: But I thought you might want to see this

Sunday: [Ticket.]

-Robin has come online.-

Robin: Is that?

Robin: Oh my gosh it is!

Sunday: Welt just asked me

Sunday: If I would like to be an official member of the crew

Sunday: And I could not say no

Sunday: Apparently

Sunday: It just felt right

Robin: You’re losing the formalities!

Sunday: Ah, He told me I could call him by his first name. So I am.

Sunday: It would be unbecoming of me to not change when I am extended something so kind

Robin: I’m happy for you, Sunday

Robin: That's really nice to see

Sunday: I can’t stop looking at it to be honest

Sunday: Feels unreal

Sunday: I think they sized it to fit my jacket

Robin: That’s sweet

Sunday: So I do have to go in a minute

Sunday: Because I summoned Stelle March and Dan Heng

Sunday: But Welt told me a little bit about your talk

Robin: Oh?

Sunday: He told me to my face he has intentions to be my

Sunday: Aeons I’m not typing that

Robin: Haha fair enough

Robin: Daddy issues hit again

Sunday: I am not facing this demon today

Sunday: But he told me to talk to you about it

Sunday: So tomorrow, Assuming I am in the ability to do so

Sunday: Can we talk about that too?

Robin: Sure.

Robin: I wasn’t trying to keep it from you. I just didn’t want to freak you out before your doctor's appointment

Sunday: I figured

Sunday: I think I hear them approaching the door

Sunday: So I am going to go

Sunday: I love you. Talk to you later

Sunday: Good luck with work. Try to get to sleep soon.

Robin: Will do, Brother

Robin: I love you too

-Sunday has gone offline-

-Robin has gone offline-

The second Sunday put his phone down he looked up to see the three entering the room. The ticket ended up back in his palm.

“Hello, Sunny!”

“It seems like the medicine is working.”

“Oh- What is that in your hand?”

March Stelle and Dan Heng all looked at each other before rushing over to look. An array of happy looks were shot right at him afterwards.

“You said yes!”

“He asked already!”

“It’s nice to see you accepted.”

“Ah, Yes. Welt asked.” Sunday looked up at them. “I couldn’t find a part of me that didn’t want to accept.”

“Ooo, Welt?” Stelle chuckled. “Losing the formalities for real now?”

“I suppose. He asked.” Sunday shrugged. “It would be unbecoming of me to maintain the formality with the change.”

“We gotta have a party when you feel better!”

“Oh my Aeons can we have it be sun themed?”

“Oh that's perfect. We gotta.”

“He did not lie when he said you would throw a party.” He chuckled. “I expected as much.”

“They like festivities.” Dan Heng nodded. “Part of the beauty of Trailblazing. We get to partake in a lot of them.”

“Oh yeah!” March made the first move to get situated. She sat down on the end of the bed. “We wanted to pitch something to ya! Preferably before you’re drugged and silly.”

“Hm?” Sunday raised an eyebrow. “What is it?”

“So, we mentioned how we wanted to take you to Belobog already.” Stelle spoke as she moved to sit on the other side of the end of the bed. Dan Heng moved to sit next to Sunday. “I talked to our friend Natasha. I dunno if you remember; She runs the clinic and used to run the orphanage before it shut down. She also heads the resistance. Awesome lady. But she has an all-terrain wheelchair we can borrow for the day.”

“Soooooo we thought, Once you're over the bug officially, We could take you!” March beamed. “It’s cold. So we’d have to bundle you up really well.”

“We already have reasons to travel there.” Dan Heng added. “We want to say hello to everyone, introduce them to our newest member, and see if Serval can fix up our piano.”

“That’s very kind.” Sunday blinked at them. His gaze flipping between the three again with his eyebrow raised. “Are you sure you want to do that? You’d be pushing me around the entire time. I don’t want to interrupt your festivities.”

“It’ll be fine.” Dan Heng shook his head. “I can handle that fine.”

“Yeah, Plus they’ve been working really hard to get everything accessible in general. Something they’ve been really passionate about.” March nodded. “It’ll be a breeze!”

“I’d be delighted, then.” Sunday gave them a soft smile. “Thank you.”

“Happily, Man.” Stelle stretched and laid back on the bed. “We got approval from Ratio for it already, But when we say bundled we mean bundled. And you better tell us if you feel cold so we can take you to a heater. Actually dangerous if you don’t.”

“Ah, Alright. I’ll try.”

“How are the braces?”

“They feel weird.” Sunday scrunched his nose. “But there is a noticeable difference. More sturdy. Welt said I should ask for one of you to help me take them off before bed.”

“That’s good. I can do that.” Dan Heng’s mouth opened to speak again but faltered. His eyes went over to Stelle with an expression Sunday couldn’t read.

“How are you feeling?” Stelle picked up where he dropped it.

“Yeah… It’s a lot.”

“Suffocated.” Sunday shrugged. “I’ve lost all the remaining normalcy I had. I was wary to accept the offer because I don’t wish to be a burden. I can’t reciprocate any sort of care in any way I know how. I don’t know, I already talked to Welt. He said I should talk to you guys about it for proper insight.“

“I felt the same for a while.” March nodded. “Like. A really long while. I didn’t have any memories, I was the first addition after Mister Yang joined. I had hypothermia pretty bad. I was frozen in ice for so long I had to relearn everything, It was so aggravating.”

“When I joined I was pretty shell shocked.” Dan Heng had opened his phone and was typing something into the data bank. It looked like Sunday’s name was visible. “I had just escaped prison and was petrified I was going to be found. All I knew to do was fight. I had been in prison since my rebirth. Even with some remaining memories..I didn’t have much to go off of. It wasn’t until after Stelle joined where I’ve obtained peace of mind in that regard. When we went back to the Xianzhou Loufu.“

“Damn not me.” Stelle laughed to herself. “Besides the whole Cancer in my chest thing I’ve been set since the beginning. Not like I don’t have lack of memory issues too, I just, Kinda don’t care and run away from it. Not my problem if I’m not thinking about it. Who cares if I used to be a Stelleron hunter! Not like I can remember it now.”

Dan Heng and March both sighed in unison over Stelle’s antics.

“It took me forever to learn how to even walk, Yet alone like. Chores.” March scratched her head. “But Himeko and Yang were very patient. I was rehabilitated faster than any doctor thought I’d be. I felt like a burden, And it was awkward for a while, But…eventually it just slipped away. I got used to them caring regardless of how I felt about the situation. I was able to get a voice in my head telling me it was okay.”

“Similar here.” Dan Heng nodded. “For a long while the only actual interactions I’d have involved me having a nightmare and not being able to trust the safety of my surroundings. Pom Pom scolded me for being too quiet one day. Said I needed to trust in people to trust in my safety. It helped.”

“I see.” Sunday had listened well. Looking at both of them as they spoke. He swallowed before he began speaking again. “It’s nice to know I’m not alone in my way of thinking.”

“You aren't.”

“Yeah… It was rough for me too. It’s why I texted.” March shook her head and laid back. “Honestly, I couldn’t think of a better place to restart at. You’re already in much better shape than I was, Believe it or not. I was active in like six months! You’ll get there. You just need to give yourself time to let the feeling breathe. Plus, You’ve got twice the people to help. We know you’ll return the favor someday. That’s how this works. We spot each other and support each other. Protect and heal. I couldn’t tell you how many times Danny has saved me from a spear in the face. And I have a feeling you’re on par with how protective he is.”

“Me too man. My aeons.” Stelle shook her head. “Danny is probably the only reason we’ve lived so far.”

“Things tend to gravitate towards the two of you. I can’t just let it happen.” Dan Heng sounded like he was leaving a line out of his response. Like it was unfulfilled and hiding the true reason for his actions. Instead, He deflected the topic. Moved on with his typical grace. “Stelle manages to get a sword in her stomach even with my efforts.”

“Aye, But I lived.” Stelle nodded and had a face of triumph. “And I got to keep the sword. So I feel like I won there.”

“Sword in the gut, Though?” March’s voice sounded unsure. “Girl you have many other options of obtaining a cool sword.”

“I think I get it.” Sunday nodded to the three of them. “Just give it time.”

“Yeah! Exactly.” March hummed. “You can’t will these things away. But you can give it time to settle.”

“Thank you. It was very insightful.” Sunday spun the ticket around in his hand. “Forgive me for changing the topic, But..I actually think having your guys’ opinion on this might be wise.”

“What's up king?”

“Hm?”

“Yeah?”

“I’m sure Stelle has told you all the antics behind Aventurine messaging me?”

“Ohh yeah, Pure meddling moment there.”

“Well. So.” He sighed. “Veritas is coming by for the appointment tomorrow. We agreed to talk about things afterwards. I’m thinking of telling Aventurine to tag along. Just get it over with. I don’t want to allow myself to run away from it.”

“Okay, I got some of the info, But not all of it.” March shook her head and turned her focus fully to Sunday. “What would be the holdup? Just a big conversation saying you fucked up or?”

“I don’t believe I know the context of ‘everything’ either.” Dan Heng put emphasis on his words to get his point across. “Just rough details.”

“I can start from the beginning. Stelle, Feel free to correct me if I’m wrong. I wasn’t exactly..at my best, during part of it.” Sunday leaned over to the nightstand to grab the note Ratio had left. “Veritas reached out to me outside of the doctor's visits on his own accord. Stating incredibly plainly that he would like to talk to me about us. He also flat out said he had interest in me at the appointment. In a ‘Please don’t let the Express feel like they owe me and then promptly bug me’ way. Paraphrasing. He left me this note.”

Sunday passed it to Dan Heng who read it and then passed it to March. Even Stelle got to see it.

“Damn, Alright.” Stelle whistled.

“I gotta mention this.” March giggled. “So. He stayed behind after you fell asleep to talk to us about everything going on with you. Yang thanked him for his time and said we appreciated it and then Ratio just flat out said this isn’t about us. I lost it. Said he didn’t like repeating himself and everything.”

“That sounds about right, For him.” Sunday chuckled. “He was very clear he doesn’t dislike you all. Even complimented Welt. I don’t believe it’s personal. I wouldn't have much interest in pursuing him if he had any ill regards.”

“Oh, We know. He’s just like that.”

“Cute that you care about potential partners opinions of us awwwww.” Stelle mused. “You’ve grown so big.”

“Well, Ignoring that.” Sunday spoke softly but his nose did scrunch in response. “But due to Stelle’s meddling Aventurine texted during my doctor's appointment. I saw it when I woke up and told him I’d reach out to talk about everything soon. Everything, Meaning, I almost killed him and tortured him on the way out. I’d be more details as I truly don’t believe I should hide from what I did, But it is..sensitive information. Not mine to share.”

“Big bad.” Stelle blew through her nose. “Like imagine if you had to go through every traumatic thing in your life and see yourself as a kid right after bad. But now imagine you think you’re either doomed to die from Harmony in a few short hours, Or possibly fail and be sentenced to death by your boss. The killing thing he’d just be into, Though.”

“I didn’t want to harm him. If I did not follow orders he would have been handled outside of the Dreamscape. He says he doesn’t hold it against me. I really think he should.” Sunday sighed. “I apologized for it already. I just can’t leave it there. I’d have to explain everything about it, And that’s a big conversation, I think I could handle it but I am…apprehensive to make the push. I feel like I have to. I shouldn’t run from it. I just don’t want to..I don’t know. Communicate poorly? Listen to not the highest of regard possible? Not be composed during the conversation? Reach out too soon?”

“That is a lot…”

“I see your concerns.”

“Okay, Sunny, I gotta be honest with you here.” Stelle sat up and crossed her legs. She looked him in the eyes. “He’s fucking crazy for you.”

March and Dan Heng both laughed at that.

“Excuse me?”

“You do not understand how much I have heard your name spoken man.” Stelle shook her head. “He’s got something wrong in his head for being so into it but he’s thought since day one that it wasn't you. He’s really good at reading people. He thought you were hot as fuck. He literally wants your feathers. After Robin texted him he was so mad at me for not telling him everything because he’s known I’m in contact with you and that you are alright and he has been checking in for info for weeks. I barely held onto not telling him you lived here! But I’m pretty sure he figured that out anyway. He used to come over at least once every two weeks and took a pause right when you joined. And I know bro isn’t busy right now with how much that guy texts me.”

“I see.”

“So, Genuinely, I think you should invite him.” Stelle gestured with one hand. “Maybe say that you aren’t going to be as well prepared as you would be in a few weeks, But that you don’t want to run from it and want to give him closure to it all. Or something. But I think he would want to get this settled. Like as fast as possible.”

“I agree.”

“I mean, Stelle is the expert..”

“Alright. I will then.” Sunday took the note back and put it back on the nightstand. He put the ticket back in his lap and rubbed his face. It felt more like he had his gloves on again. Similar but new. “I should probably do that now. He might not be able to make it with how last minute it is.”

“Oh, I doubt he’d miss it man.” Stelle snickered.

Stelle and Sunday both pulled their phones out. March requested the TV remote to put something on. Stelle grabbed it for her.

—------

-Stelle has come online.-

Stelle: ur so fucking welcome.

-Aventurine has come online.-

Aventurine: what

Stelle: ur going to be so happy in five seconds

-Stelle has gone offline-

Aventurine: ominous but kinda ur brand ok

Aventurine: WAIT

-Aventurine has gone offline.-

—-----------

-Sunday has come online.-

Sunday: Apologies for reaching out again so soon.

Sunday: Or not apologies? Not sure. Take it as you will.

Sunday: Stelle seemed firm on this being a good idea.

Sunday: I have a check up with Veritas tomorrow. We agreed to talk afterwards.

Sunday: I thought it would be easier for you to attend as well. I don’t want to run from the conversation.

Sunday: I am recovering from being ill. I got diagnosed as disabled earlier today. It might not be the best conversation I could give.

-Aventurine has come online.-

Sunday: But I think it would be better to do it now. You deserve the closure that conversation would give. Even if I have to do it again later on.

Aventurine: I’ll be there

Aventurine: When?

Sunday: I am not sure

Sunday: Stelle March and Dan Heng do not know

Sunday: Welt has gone to bed. I am not sure how to find out without bugging Veritas.

Sunday: So you could ask him yourself?

Aventurine: I’ll do that

Aventurine: Don’t worry about it

Aventurine: I can hang out in the party car until the appointment is over. We can probably just warp together from his place

Aventurine: It sounds like things are rough for you. Are you alright?

Sunday: I’ve seen your texts with Stelle before. You don’t have to pretend to enjoy proper capitalization.

Aventurine: oh thank aeons

Aventurine: but are you alright

Aventurine: that is a big label

Sunday: Well I can’t walk

Sunday: So

Sunday: I can talk about it tomorrow?

Sunday: I’m doing as okay as I can be. Though. Don’t worry.

Sunday: I’ve just talked my brain out on it for the evening.

Aventurine: that sounds good

Aventurine: you do not need to talk to me about it either

Aventurine: but the offer is open

Sunday: I’ll keep it in mind.

Aventurine: don’t worry about how the conversation goes

Aventurine: we can always talk about it again if we need to

Aventurine: im just happy to be able to communicate at all

Sunday: Thank you. I am too.

Sunday: I truly am sorry.

Aventurine: and ill hear all about the details tomorrow

Aventurine: so you dont need to apologize right now

Sunday: Right. I need to go.

Sunday: I do have Stelle Dan Heng and March all in front of me staring at me type

Sunday: A bit embarrassing. They are going to make fun of me.

Aventurine: no worries angel

Aventurine: have a good night

Sunday: You too.

Sunday: I look forward to seeing you tomorrow.

-Sunday has gone offline.-

-Aventurine has gone offline.-

—-----------

-Aventurine has gone online.-

Aventurine: girl thank u

Aventurine: surely he will let me date him and ruffle his feathers

-Aventurine has gone offline.-

—-----------

Sunday put his phone down and looked up to three very expectant faces.

“He’s coming here tomorrow. Agreed very fast.”

“Lets go!”

“Pshh, Yeah he just texted me thank you.”

“Good.”

“Thank you for helping.” Sunday took a deep breath and picked the ticket back up. “I couldn’t decide.”

“Happy to help Sunny, I hope the talk goes well.”

“From the sound of it, I don’t think it could go bad..”

“I appreciate the confidence.” Sunday laughed. “I do hope it does.”

“So you don’t have any more woes for us?” Stelle had moved to be leaning forward like a gossiping schoolgirl on the phone. “Or actual vents or whatever?”

“I don’t know.” He shrugged, looking down at his hands instead of towards anyone. “I’d just be repeating myself. I’ve never felt like I am properly living a life, And if I was it certainly wasn’t my own, And now..it’s like my body isn’t mine either. I can’t control anything. It’s not like I ever could. It just feels closer to impossible now.”

“And you are a bit of a control freak.” Stelle sighed. “Spoken with love.”

“You’re not wrong.” Sunday chuckled. “I’ll be alright. I appreciate you all coming up to talk to me. It’s helped.”

“Aww, Sunny’s already well on his way to being bright again!”

“Horray!”

“Excuse me?”

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

-Robin has come online.-

Robin: Hello! I requested your number from Aventurine. Although I didn’t really explain why…Oops!

Robin: It’s Robin.

Robin: I just wanted you to be able to contact me. I thought it might be wise for Sunday’s care. Even if you didn’t need it, It’s better to be safe then sorry!

Robin: I’ll try to be the most open of books. I already talked a lot with Welt before his first checkup, But I’m here regardless.

-Veritas has come online.-

Veritas: I see. I appreciate the effort.

Veritas: As long as I obtain Sunday’s consent, I am thankful for a source of information.

Veritas: You two are twins, Yes?

Robin: Fraternal.

Veritas: I presumed.

Veritas: He thinks very highly of you.

Robin: He’s always been a doting overprotective person.

Veritas: Hm.

Veritas: Well, Seeing as I do not have consent in my hands to discuss anything medical, I can at least express appreciation for whatever ‘Meddling’ occurred to get Aventurine and Sunday speaking.

Veritas: I couldn’t exactly do it myself.

Robin: Ah, It was mostly Stelle. I was just the one who reached out.

Veritas: Oh, I saw.

Veritas: It was interesting to see you lay what you did on the table.

Robin: Do you disagree with what I did?

Veritas: Not at all.

Veritas: As you said, It made things more equal.

Veritas: Aventurine is idiotically driven by desire more than survival. He wouldn’t have demanded anything.

Veritas: That isn’t a healthy decision or thought process.

Robin: No, Not really..

Veritas: It’s just interesting. You don’t run into siblings so intermixed very often.

Robin: We aren’t very typical, No.

Robin: He’s very important to me. I don’t think I’d be anything without him.

Veritas: He holds the same regard.

Robin: I know.

Veritas: It’s endearing.

Veritas: You seem to be the only positive thing to come out of his past.

Robin: Ah, I wouldn’t say that exactly..

Veritas: Alright. I’ll correct myself.

Veritas: You seem to be the only positive thing from his past that is pushing him forward. Urging him towards change and growth. Not being scared of involving yourself to make it happen.

Robin: It’s what he’s always done.

Veritas: I don’t doubt that.

Veritas: He was awfully intimidating for being as unhealthy as he was back in Penacony. I’m sure he was a force to be reckoned with when he was in better health.

Robin: I didn’t have any problems, No.

Veritas: Hm.

Veritas: Nevertheless, I’m sure your encouragement and support has been and will continue to help his health improve.

Robin: Are you..paying me a compliment?

Veritas: I am stating the truth.

Veritas: I will get consent from Sunday to discuss medical matters tomorrow. At his next appointment.

Robin: Good. Thank you.

Robin: You can contact me whenever.

Veritas: You as well.

Veritas: Thank you for the time.

-Veritas has gone offline.-

-Robin has gone offline.-

—-------

-Robin has come online.-

Robin: Aeons why does he talk like that?

Aventurine: Yeah, I know

Robin: I think he was actually being nice though?

Robin: I feel like my brain has been taken out and examined.

Aventurine: Hot, Isn’t it?

Robin: No!

Aventurine: Ha!

Robin: I feel like I need to call my therapist just to talk to them about him therapizing me in what was supposed to be a very casual conversation!

Aventurine: Why did you wanna talk to him, Anyhow?

Robin: I just wanted to let him know he can contact me with any medical stuff regarding Sunday.

Robin: I’m really the only person who knows everything besides him

Aventurine: You absolutely walked into that

Aventurine: Let me guess, He said something that was definitely a compliment but designed to make you reflect and think upon your actions repeatedly?

Robin: Yes! Exactly!

Aventurine: Veritas classic.

Robin: Okay I’ll let you go now

Robin: Thank you again! For giving me his number and also making me feel less insane (˶ˆᗜˆ˵)

Robin: Hope to talk to you again soon

Aventurine: Anytime. It’s been a pleasure

-Robin has gone offline.-

-Aventurine has gone offline.-

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

Sunday’s pain medication had taken effect at this point. They had all readjusted. Dan Heng and Sunday sat side to side, Both leaning upon pillows and stuffed animals to make it properly comfortable, Stelle was laying at the foot of the bed and March was halfway splayed across Dan Heng’s lap and torso. They talked about everything they wanted to do with Sunday in Belobog, Brought up some past stories on the Xianzhou, Discussed some of the aspects of reality TV because of course Stelle put it on yet again, and had just now fallen onto the topic of Sunday’s new room.

“It’s really sweet that you’re all going to the lengths of giving me a room.” Sunday flipped his hand in the air gently. “Surely you don’t need to be thinking of decorations already.”

“But that’s the fun part!” Stelle gasped. “You’re depriving us of joy! Fun! Whimsy!”

“Yeah! What’s the point if we don’t get it perfect for the wow factor!” March had leaned up a little to do a dramatic face and vogue the sides of her face while she did it. “You gotta stand in it for the first time and be amazed!”

“To not be living in Stelle’s bed?” Sunday raised his eyebrow. “To have my own space?”

“What is the point in having your own space if it's not perfect!”

“March, I don’t need it.” Sunday shook his head. “You’re doing enough already!”

“Nope! Now you will tell me the preferred color palette and we are going to SHOP young man!” March huffed. “I am a genius at this and I will not let you squander my plans.”

“Fine! I like gold, dark blue, and white the most. I deeply enjoy it if it goes together with black and dark brown. Especially furniture.” Sunday rolled his eyes and leaned deeper into the pillows. Which caused Dan Heng and his shoulders to touch. “I like periwinkle and light purple as accents. No dark purple.”

“Oo, Detailed palette! Nice!” March cheered and wrote it down on her phone. “Stelle is sooo boring and only let me have a few options.”

“Shut up! I like the vibes!”

“Yeah, Yeah..”

“So Sunny.” Stelle turned her attention back towards him. “Instead of letting Marchy keep going about decorations because she cruelly ridiculed my color palette”

“Hey!”

“I wanna hear an actual story of yours. You’ve gotta have something and Aeons knows you’re loose enough.”

“Is it that noticeable?”

“You look like you’re going to become one with the pillows.” Dan Heng nodded towards him. “Is the medicine working well?”

“Too well. I forgot what it was like to not be in constant overbearing pain. I feel like I can properly control my hands! Just breathing isn’t causing spikes of pain!” Sunday smiled and leaned his head back. “It’s probably been like..a decade? Maybe more?”

“Be careful not to overdo it. Just because you’re not feeling it doesn’t mean you won’t later.”

“I’m aware. I’ll keep it in mind.” Sunday nodded towards Dan Heng before directing his gaze over to Stelle. “You want a story?”

“Yes!” Stelle put her hands into the air and cheered. “You’ve gotta have something.”

“I’m not sure I’m the best place to go for that, Stelle.” He shook his head. “Most of my stories are depressing.”

“It can’t be that bad.”

“I only have two memories of my mother remaining. Afterwards I had a full year of being caught in a full blown Stelleron disaster that killed everyone I loved besides my sister, and then we got adopted by my Father.” Sunday rolled his eyes as he spoke. “You already know about my tattoo. Alongside everything that occurred during the Charmony Festival. Otherwise everything is mundane, Drab, Or just sad.”

“Not even a good college story?”

“I was a religious studies major with no social life.” He lifted his head up to raise an eyebrow. “What do you think?”

“Ugh, Fine.” Stelle huffed and crossed her arms. “March you can talk about decorations and stuff I guess.”

“Yay!” March smiled and raised her arms into the air. “I know we’re gonna have some Robin merch in there, And I wanna get you a full length mirror so you can get ready and see yourself before you can stand because I know that drove me crazy. You like to stargaze a lot, Right?”

“I suppose.”

“Kept in mind!” March smiled and wrote a few things down in her phone. “Okay, Bedding. I know you’ve got sensitive skin. But what textures are you wanting? How soft?”

“Pretty soft.” He nodded and readjusted to sink deeper into the pillows. His head ended up on the corner of Dan Heng’s shoulder, but neither of them moved to correct it. “I hate velvet. I do not like the fleece that clumps up after a wash. Nothing flannel or rough.”

“Oh, Easy. Lots of pillows? You seem to like those pillows. I’m just gonna say yes. Do you have any artists you like? Paintings? Shows?”

“I particularly loved Clockie growing up. Otherwise, I haven’t had much time to consume anything. If I had the time to listen to music I would always listen to Robin’s newest song. I only got the opportunity to play classical music.” Sunday hummed. “I like Blue water lilies if you know that one. Beyond the blue aswell.”

“Ooh! Okay, That’s enough to work off of.” March moved her gaze over to Stelle. “You should show him Serval’s band!”

“Maybe we could get her to have a show soon.” Stelle shot up to a sit and grabbed her phone from her pocket. “I know she’s been wanting to have one soon. Although the piano might take up too much time… Hm. I’ll poke her.”

“I meant like, On the TV?”

“Oh, I know. But wouldn’t a show be so much fun? We haven’t been able to catch one in over a year!”

“Ooh, Fair point.”

“You could put it on the TV too, you know.”

“Shut up Danny! One thing at a time!” Stelle waved a hand in his direction while pulling up Serval’s contact. “Impatient men.”

“The gesture is wonderful, but I don’t think you need to do all of that for me.” Sunday shook his head gently. “She’s already troubled enough by fixing that piano.”

“But she loves having shows! And fixing instruments!” March waved her hands in front of her. “Trust me! Her getting an instrument to fix instead of yet another geomarrow heater is like giving her the gift of an Aeon.”

“If you’re sure..”

“Sunny, Look.” Stelle put down her phone to look at him for a minute. “She’s a grown ass woman who only does what she loves. She almost joined us once! If she doesn’t wanna, Or it’d be too much; She would tell us. I know being anxious is your thing but believe me when I say she doesn’t give a fuck.”

“Alright, Alright.” Sunday sighed. “Message received."

In a few short minutes Stelle finished texting Serval and put a video March captured onto the screen of the last show they managed to catch. Sunday at first was watching it passively, But around halfway through he was thoroughly invested. It was absolutely captivating to him.

They didn’t have a budget, or a grand stage. But they sounded phenomenal. He could feel the passion and love put into the music without his power of the harmony. It was fun, exciting, and beautiful. Which might be an odd description for a punk rock band, But for Sunday that was the only fitting descriptor.

It had been so long since he listened to anything but Robin’s music. Which he absolutely adored and loved; She was uniquely talented and had her fame for a reason. But…

It was so different seeing a band with such a deep connection to their world. Their music was filled with the misery and strife they’d experienced all their life. Alongside the joy and love. He had not yet experienced it himself, but he couldn’t deny that from the stories he heard they truly embodied Belobog. The unity of that world. The grave circumstances they were put in and their resistance to letting it take over. The love and comradery that can only come from true hardship.

By the time it finished, It was like he had stars in his eyes. It could be from the drugs, Sure. None of them thought so though. This was something simple; A man rediscovering his love for the most human thing out there. Music.

“That was incredible.” Sunday spoke with a giant smile on his face. One they hadn’t truly seen before. “I’d love to see them live.”

“Well good news for you, They wanna have a show when we visit next.” Stelle chuckled as she stretched back out on the bed. “I know I mentioned to both Robin and Serval that they should have a show together.”

“Wait- Really?” His eyes shot right over to her. “Did they like the idea?”

“Oh, They loved it. It’s been in discussion but never gotten much further. From what I know.”

Sunday, Instead of replying, Just immediately pulled out his phone.

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

-Sunday has come online.-

Sunday: Robin you need to have a show with them

-Robin has come online.-

Robin: Excuse me?

Sunday: Serval’s band

Sunday: That for some reason Stelle has never told me the name of

Robin: Oh! Right

Robin: I did love how they sounded

Robin: Is there a reason you’re bringing this up?

Sunday: It needs to happen

Robin: Okay?

Sunday: Sorry let me

Sunday: Start from the beginning

Sunday: I am on painkillers for the first time. Stelle March and Dan Heng all came up to talk and hangout for a while.

Sunday: We got onto the topic of music because March is planning decorations for my room(Despite my insistence it is not needed) and wanted to know if I had any artists I’d like incorporated

Sunday: So they showed me a recording they took of Serval’s last show

Sunday: You need to make music with her this needs to happen

Robin: You liked it?

Sunday: It was amazing!

Sunday: It’s been so long since I’ve listened to music that isn’t yours

Sunday: Their music feels like it incorporates their world! Chock full of emotion

Sunday: It was really beautiful

Sunday: I wish they had another recording..

Robin: Wow! You really liked it huh

Robin: While I love that you enjoy my music, You used to be the one who listened to everything they could get their hands on.

Sunday: I know! I don’t see why I stopped

Robin: You stopped because Father raided your stash and punished you.

Sunday: Why did I let him stop me!

Robin: That’s a different outlook than what I’ve seen before.

Robin: It’s nice.

Sunday: I don’t know. I guess I am a little tired of the cycle.

Sunday: Father ruined my life, I let him. I shouldn’t let him anymore.

Sunday: I feel like a teenager again. I should ask them for more recommendations

Robin: You should!

Robin: You did remind me. I wanted to reach out to her for planning soon.

Robin: I’ve just been so distracted with everything..

Sunday: We’re visiting when I am feeling better and cleared to go

Sunday: I could tell her to reach out to you?

Robin: Are you sure?

Sunday: Robin, They deserve such a big stage

Sunday: Imagine if they could open for your next tour!

Robin: I have a small feeling they're too busy to do that, Brother.

Sunday: They could for a few shows though!

Robin: That is true!

Robin: Please tell her to reach out for me, then. Thank you

Sunday: !

Sunday: Sorry, I feel like I’ve let my excitement takeover

Sunday: Why are you still awake?

Robin: Oh. No reason.

Sunday: Robin you and I both know thats a lie

Robin: Okay, I was talking to Veritas and telling him he can reach out to me to assist with anything he needs.

Robin: While also finishing up paperwork so I can focus more on my album tomorrow

Sunday: Ah

Sunday: Don’t burn yourself out. You should be trying to find someone to replace you in Penacony. Not continuing to take on my old work.

Sunday: You were never meant to be burdened with that.

Robin: I know..

Robin: Is it sad that I don’t want to see someone else in your shoes?

Sunday: No. That’s sweet of you.

Sunday: I could never return, Though

Sunday: And at this point you’re running yourself on empty

Robin: I know…

Sunday: You know you can come to me if any of it is too much of a burden, Though?

Sunday: No one would need to know I’m still helping with paperwork.

Robin: If I can’t find a replacement, I might take you up on that offer.

Robin: Temporarily. Once you are not sick.

Sunday: I’m practically cured

Robin: You’re looped up on medicine!

Sunday: I am able to move a mountain

Robin: You can’t even walk!

Sunday: Okay, Ouch.

Robin: I can’t believe I’m being the realist here.

Sunday: Maybe Stelle is infecting me

Robin: Oh, She is.

Robin: You should see our messages sometime. It’s quite entertaining

Sunday: Meddling?

Robin: Meddling.

Robin: While this has been wonderful, Brother. I do need to go.

Sunday: Right! I’m sorry

Sunday: Have a good night, Sister. I love you.

Robin: You too.

Robin: It’s really nice seeing you excited about things again.

Robin: Making me a wisty eyed younger-by-five-minutes sister.

Sunday: You’re sweet.

-Robin has gone offline.-

Sunday: I like it too, I think.

-Sunday has gone offline.-

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

“Remind me to talk to Serval when we visit. Robin wanted to reach out but has been far too busy.” Sunday flopped his phone onto the bed and looked back up to the others. “Do you have any other recommendations for me?”

They spent the next hour showing Sunday different songs from different artists they like. They even showed him Aventurine’s single, which made everyone crack up a bit. Sunday ended up with a list of artists to listen to more alongside being shown how to look through the music gallery on the data bank. After a while Sunday ended up nodding off on Dan Heng’s shoulder, so he took off the braces and wraps before tucking him into bed. The three of them headed down to go to their respective areas to sleep. Who’s to say if they started the process of finding him a bass guitar before they went to bed.

Stelle did have March take a photo of him asleep on Dan Heng’s shoulder. She lovingly hung it up on her fridge before she left.

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

Sunday woke up alone in Stelle’s bed yet again. With a desperate need to pee and stretch his legs. Now that he knew the feeling of having his joints wrapped and supported, It felt strange going back to normal. He had forgotten how it felt to have a slightly functioning body. He already missed it.

It took him a few moments, but he was able to get ahold of the crutches left at the end of the bed and hoisted himself up. He got himself to the bathroom with only a bit of pain and struggle. Not to mention the IV slowly trailing after him. The crutches were hard on his shoulders. He didn’t even know that his shoulders were something to be concerned about. Yet here he was, his entire body trembling over the effort of trying to walk ten feet. It was humbling. A dark reminder of his current standing with mobility.

The night before took a lot off of his mind. He felt a bit lighter. Like he had begun to regain something he forgot he cherished so dearly. While a bit distracted and lost in thought on his shaky struggle back, He put the right crutch down slightly on it’s side. Which caused him to crash down at an exceptionally fast rate. He barely got his hand in front of his face to stop him from a full faceplant.

He had barely gotten out of the bathroom. He couldn’t even navigate a full round trip.

He tried to pull himself up to a sit and crumbled down all over again.

He can’t even hold himself up for two seconds? How pathetic. It hurt to fall in the first place, It hurt to fail to even go to the bathroom without anything happening.

But he can’t even get himself sitting upright? What is he supposed to do? His phone is on the nightstand! He’s trapped!

He didn’t even notice the tears falling down his cheeks. Or the sob leaving his chest as he failed yet again to get himself off of the crutches poking into his ribs. He kept trying. Everytime it just felt worse.

It was like he was swimming in place. No matter the effort he couldn’t do anything.

He even tried to crawl. All it did was dig the crutch into his rib so hard it hurt to breathe. Every single joint on his body felt like it was going to vibrate off. Destined to combust under his pointless efforts.

The door opened without a knock for once, Welt hurriedly scanning the room until his eyes fell on Sunday.

“What happened?” Sunday didn’t even get to blink before Welt had pulled him up off the crutches. He watched them be discarded to the side. “Are you alright?”

“I can’t even sit myself up.” He just sat there in defeat. “I-I just wanted to go to the bathroom. I misplaced the crutch on my way back, I think, I-”

Sunday shook his head.

“I fell and I’ve been trying and trying to sit myself up.” He looked up at the man holding his shoulder. “I can’t even do that. I just- I shake and crumble.”

“Sunday..”

“I’m so pathetic.” He sobbed. “I barely stopped myself from breaking my nose.”

“You’re not pathetic.”

“Then what is this?” He hiccuped as he spoke. “What-What is it then? I can’t do anything.”

“Sunday, You’re disabled.” Welt spoke softly as he scooped him up into his arms. In a few steps he was placed back into bed. Sunday brought his knees up to his chest despite the pain it caused. He wrapped his arms around his calves and leaned his face on his thighs. “There’s nothing pathetic about it. You still made it to the bathroom! That’s better than yesterday.”

“It feels pathetic.”

“I know it does. Look.” Welt sat in his chair and pulled it up close. “It will take time. We have to work with what we’ve got here. Slowly rebuilding your strength, Slowly increasing what you can do, that is what we need to do. You need to regain muscle, So you need to eat more so you have the energy to do so. Sleeping more will help regulate your system. The braces support your joints while we wait for the muscles to help too. You’re at the very beginning of a long process.”

“I-I know.”

“You need to give yourself some grace. I know that isn’t your strong suit." He gestured with one hand as he spoke. “If the roles were reversed and Robin was in your shoes, Would you call her pathetic?”

“Of course not.”

“Then why are you doing that to yourself?” He leaned forward and put one hand on Sunday’s shoulder. “I know you two lived different lives, but you’re cut from the exact same cloth. The reason Robin wasn’t put in the same life as you is because of you. You protected her. You sacrificed yourself for her. You did absolutely everything you could to get her where she is. Right?”

“Yes. I-I did.”

“You need to do that for yourself now.” He squeezed his hand which got Sunday to finally look at him again. “It’s not the same. We both know that. It’s similar though. You’ll need to sacrifice your routine, your habits, the way you like things to operate, your need to do things for yourself. In doing so you’ll protect yourself too. You need to give this everything you can so you can become a healthier version of yourself.”

“That’s..a good way of phrasing it.” He sniffed and slowly put his legs back down. He had stopped crying. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t apologize.” Welt shook his head. “I’m happy I heard and came to help.”

“I didn’t break the crutches, did I?”

“No. You didn’t.” Welt chuckled and leaned back, retracting his hand. “Are you alright? The fall sounded pretty bad.”

“My ribs really hurt.” He rubbed at his face and put his left hand down in his lap. He held up his right one. “Same with my wrist. I fell on them both and..kept falling on them both.”

Welt gingerly took Sunday’s hand into his own and examined his wrist and palm.

“Too early to see any damage here I think. I’ll get you some ice.” Welt let go of the hand and gestured to his torso. “Can I look?”

“..Help me lay down?”

Welt helped Sunday shuffle down on the bed a few inches and laid his back down on the bed. Then Sunday lifted his shirt up above where it hurt.

“Ouch.” Welt winced and angled his head to look closer. “I don’t know if I’ll ever get used to how easily you bruise.”

“It’s easier when it doesn’t remind you, Isn’t it?”

“Right, Right.” Welt gestured for him to pull his shirt down and walked over to Stelle’s fridge. Luckily, since the last time, they thought ahead to have ice packs in the freezer. He grabbed three and walked back over, two going over his bruised ribcage and one being handed over to wrap around his wrist. He also assisted him in sitting back up. “Let me know if it keeps bugging you. Do you want to tell Veritas about it ahead of time, Or should I?”

“I’ll do it.” Sunday sighed and held out his hand for his phone. Welt followed the silent command. “Thank you. For helping me. Again.”

“Anytime. You don’t gotta take any medication for around an hour. Do you want me here or can I go and finish making breakfast for everyone?”

“I didn’t realize I interrupted you. I apologize.”

“Don’t, Shush is doing most of the work anyway.” Welt chuckled and ruffled Sunday’s hair before walking out. “I’ll be back soon. You’ll contact me if you need anything, Right?”

“I will.”

Welt waved as he walked through the door. Once it was shut, Sunday opened his phone. He had a few messages to reply to, but he decided to stay on topic.

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

-Sunday has come online.-

Sunday: Hello. Apologies for bothering you so soon, but if I didn’t someone else would anyway.

Sunday: I used the crutches to go to the bathroom and on my way out crumbled to the floor. My wrist and ribs are both giving me pain.

Sunday: I wasn’t capable of sitting up by myself. I had to be rescued. Although I think I made it worse by continuing to try to sit myself up despite my repeating failure.

-Veritas has come online.-

Veritas: No apologies necessary.

Veritas: Is there a particular reason it occurred?

Sunday: I believe I didn’t place the crutch properly. I’m unsure. I wasn’t exactly paying attention.

Sunday: My ribs are already bruised. Or well, The flesh above them.

Veritas: Hm. How long ago did this occur?

Sunday: My approximation is around 8 minutes.

Veritas: Bruising already is concerning.

Sunday: I assumed as much.

Veritas: Is it too painful?

Sunday: It hurts. I’m not suffocated by it or anything.

Veritas: Hm. I’ll move up the timeline. I can come two hours earlier.

Veritas: That way you can take pain medication earlier. It would be unfortunate to let this bother you.

Sunday: Oh, You don’t need to do that.

Veritas: It gives us more time to talk, Doesn’t it?

Sunday: I suppose.

Veritas: Then it is fine.

Sunday: Alright.

Veritas: Is there anything else?

Sunday: Not particularly. The wrappings were very helpful. Medicine is incredibly effective. I have no strength and fail to even let myself lay down.

Veritas: I’m pleased to hear most of that.

Veritas: You’ll get your strength back.

Sunday: I know.

Veritas: I am appreciative you reached out.

Veritas: I’ve been looking forward to talking to you today. Kakavasha as well.

Sunday: Me too.

Sunday: I actually watched his debut single last night. Very entertaining.

Veritas: Tch, I’d prefer he actually put his soul into something like that

Sunday: Yeah, it wasn’t very personal. Incredibly catchy though.

Veritas: More like an ear ache

Sunday: You detest it that much?

Veritas: He has a beautiful voice, It is a waste to spend it on something silly instead of something he truly cares about.

Sunday: Awfully insightful of you. Not surprising in the least, though.

Sunday: One day I hope to be lucky enough to hear his proper singing voice.

Veritas: You’re catching on.

Sunday: Is it supposed to be hard?

Veritas: Ha!

Veritas: You seem livelier.

Sunday: Your medicine works wonders. I also deeply enjoyed listening to some new music last night. It’s been a very long time.

Sunday: I was a much happier person last night. So far my morning has not been the best.

Veritas: Unfortunate.

Veritas: Is my assumption that is because of your lack of mobility correct?

Sunday: Yes.

Veritas: Would you like to explain?

Sunday: Wasn’t a stipulation of our talk this evening that you couldn’t be my therapist?

Veritas: Is that not you dodging the question?

Veritas: Or are you just afraid of true communication about how you feel?

Sunday: Fair enough.

Sunday: It’s just..humbling. I suppose.

Sunday: I felt pathetic and pitiful not being able to even pick myself up off the ground. Every attempt made me feel worse.

Sunday: I’m lucky Welt heard the fall. Otherwise I’d still be on the floor stuck atop the crutches.

Sunday: I didn’t have my phone. So I couldn’t call for help.

Sunday: I do feel slightly better about it now. Welt brought up some very valid points.

Veritas: Which were?

Sunday: That I’m not pathetic, I’m disabled. I need to give myself time to regain what I once had.

Sunday: Pointed out that I would never think the way I do if Robin was in my position. That I spent my entire life sacrificing myself for her. Protecting her. Doing anything I could to get her where she is now. I needed to do that for myself now. Sacrifice my habits and routine. Protect myself by giving myself time and grace.

Veritas: He’s a very smart man.

Veritas: Did that help?

Sunday: A bit. It’s hard to unwind my thought process.

Veritas: That would make sense.

Veritas: These things do not happen overnight, Sunday.

Sunday: I know.

Veritas: Is there anything else?

Sunday: No.

Veritas: Good.

Sunday: I’m sorry I troubled you. I can let you go now.

Sunday: I’ll inform the others you will be arriving early.

Veritas: Kakavasha as well.

Sunday: Yes.

Veritas: You did not trouble me. You should be bringing these things to my attention.

Sunday: If you’re sure.

Veritas: I am. That won’t change.

Veritas: Before we end this, Your sister contacted me.

Sunday: She mentioned.

Veritas: Do I have your consent to involve her in your medical care?

Sunday: Yes.

Veritas: Including letting her be privy to your medical records and things of that nature?

Sunday: Yes. She already has them.

Veritas: Alright.

Veritas: I’ll see you soon. Take care of yourself.

Sunday: See you soon.

-Veritas has gone offline.-

-Sunday has gone offline.-

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

-Sunday has come online.-

Sunday: Good morning

Sunday: I know you are likely busy.

Sunday: But now would be the best time to talk.

Sunday: And I..would like to.

-Robin has come online.-

Robin: I’m not busy. Did you want to call?

Sunday: Are you in a safe situation to do so?

Robin: Yes.

Sunday: Then sure.

Robin: I’ll call you when I’m ready, Alright?

Sunday: I’ll keep my eyes open.

-Sunday has gone offline.-

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

Sunday messaged to expect Veritas and Aventurine a few hours earlier the Astral Express group chat, and then waited for Robin’s call. Honestly, While he had appreciated all the love and support he had gotten, he was looking forward to breaking down on his sister instead of the newfound situation he had found himself in. They were wonderful. Especially Welt. Listened extraordinarily well and showed him endless compassion he will forever cherish and appreciate. But it wasn’t familiar. He’d give anything for a semblance of familiarity right now.

Not to mention feeling less guilty. Even with their insistence that everything is fine; This is still new. He has no way to reciprocate either. The small breaks the past few days had helped tremendously, but when Robin visited..

He didn’t actually get to talk much. To her, Alone. She prepared him for the doctor's visit, but that was it. He had fallen into a hard to digest cycle. He felt worse whenever left alone; Objectively. He felt lonely, trapped, and his mood always went down significantly. It was less overwhelming, but at the cost of his sanity. Robin always made him feel comfortable. It wasn’t overwhelming and he could properly get his words out. Welt had a habit of getting him to talk, but nothing like Robin. Not even including her ability to literally read his mind. She always understood him. She always knew what he needed to hear. She was always there.

Except for when he was shutting her out.

That wasn’t her fault, though.

His phone finally started to ring. He accepted it before it finished the first note.

“You answered scarily quick. Are you okay?”

Robin’s voice always sounded strange over the phone. Her melodic voice never fully carried over. Like the Harmony was struggling to transport. He wondered if he sounded similar.

“I’m fine.” Sunday cleared his throat and leaned his back on the pillows. “Well, not really. My answering speed had nothing to do with it, though.”

“Uhuh.” He heard the sound of her putting a pencil down. “You sound upset. You seemed pretty happy last night. What happened?”

“I..I can’t even sit myself up anymore.” He swallowed. “I kept trying and I couldn’t. I fell and I couldn’t even crawl.”

“Sunday..” He could hear the frown in her voice. “That’s awful. I assume you’re not still on the floor?”

“Welt heard me fall and rescued me. I fell on the crutches and have a bruised ribcage, Probably. Well my torso is bruised. At least.” He sighed and rubbed his face with his other hand. “I’m probably going to be trapped in a wheelchair. Who knows if I can even get myself into one. They’re all understanding, and so compassionate. I just. I feel sick to my stomach at this point.”

“That does make sense for you..” She sounded so worried. “Did you tell the Doctor?”

“Yes. He moved up the appointment time so I could take pain relievers sooner.” He groaned and let his hand flop into his lap. “Which means in two less hours I’ll have to tell Aventurine and Veritas everything. Or attempt to, at least. I’ll probably fail. I’ll probably cry.”

“You don’t need to push yourself, You know. I’m positive they won’t be upset as long as you’re attempting to communicate. You already apologized. From what I’ve heard, I doubt it can go badly?”

“I was terrible to him, Robin. I was vile.”

“You were. I can’t deny that.”

“I don’t think we could even be involved. With me like this. With how things are.” He sniffed and tilted his head back. “I’ll be a massive burden. I can’t do that. I can’t be that revolting and then do that to him. I’d be terrible. I’m already terrible, To be honest. For even..entertaining the idea.”

“Sunday, No. You fucked up, Everyone in this situation knows that.” She sounded more firm. “If you being newly disabled is a burden on them, you shouldn’t want to be with them in the first place. You’re not terrible for this. You’re doing the right thing. You’re going to give a proper apology with an explanation. You’re going to equal the playing field of what you know about each other. You’re going to make it clear you’re interested, right?”

“Yes.”

“Then you’re not terrible, okay? You’re so many things but terrible is not one of them. You acted terrible. You had an action that was objectively horrifying. We both know that would never happen again. We both know you’ve changed and intend to keep doing so. We both know how fucking pure your heart is.” She took a second to breathe. “We both know you’re neurotic. We both know you were never given a chance to have a different life. We both know this is Father’s fault too. You can’t let what you’ve done dictate your future. You’ll never correct it that way.”

“I know. I just- I can’t help but feel guilty. For everything.” A few tears began going down his cheeks. “Not just with Aventurine. I have to be carried. I have to be fed like a child. Nursed to health. Draining their resources and time. They’re renovating an entire room for me. Extended a place here. Listening to everything I say, Buying me things, Finding my comforts and insisting on them, Giving me company and a space to just be, They’re giving me everything I could have ever asked for. I can’t do anything in exchange. I can’t and it hurts. It’s like I’m being forced to watch myself throw everything away. The things I would have killed for when we were younger. I feel guilty and useless.“

“You’re not useless, Sunday. If given the opportunity, will you give them the exact same treatment back? Protect them? Listen to them?”

“I- Of course I would.”

“That is what they want in exchange. You know that. Trust me, you will get the opportunity. It doesn’t matter if someone vents to you next week, or in four months and you protect them outside of the Express. You’ve joined an actual community. They’re not going to blame you while you’re down. I understand, though. You’ve never had one of those before. You don’t know what it's like. You don’t know how to trust it yet. That’s okay. You’re also someone very prone to feeling guilty for everything you do. This is a pretty torturous position to be in with that. I know it must be awful. You just have to get in the habit of telling that voice no. Sometimes.”

“I know. You’re right. I just..” He sobbed and paused for a moment. “I can’t style my hair. I can’t choose to do what I want when I want. I can’t clean, I can’t do anything. I have zero control over anything anymore. I was so used to living a life that wasn’t mine. It’s entirely different to not feel like my body is mine. I’ve already talked about this. With people who can relate and empathize. I just can’t get over it. I don’t know what's wrong with me. Well, I know there's something. That's obvious. People keep telling me the same thing and I keep not listening.”

“Well, You’re obviously listening, Sunday.” Based on her silence she was probably biting her lip to try and figure out how to continue. He wished they could just talk in person. It was always easier. “This doesn’t happen overnight.”

“That’s what everyone keeps saying!” He took a deep breath. “Exactly that. It doesn’t happen overnight, Sunday. You need to give yourself more grace, Sunday. You need to treat yourself like you treat your sister, Sunday. Everyone is right. I know that. It doesn’t make me any more sane. It’s like the feeling is trapped under my skin and I need to tear it out. Except I can’t do that! I’m sure if I even tried my fingers would snap under the effort!”

“Sunday..”

“I can’t do anything. I can’t control anything. I can’t..anything.”

For a few seconds the only noise going between them was the sound of Sunday sobbing.

“Who am I anymore, Really? Who have I been? I keep looking for an answer and there's not one to be found. I finally have a chance to live and of course I’m like..this. Disappointing and insufferable.”

“You’re not disappointing or insufferable, Sunday.” Robin spoke quicker this time. There to smack it out of his mouth before he had even finished realizing what he was saying. “You’re doing well! That’s an objective fact.”

“It doesn’t feel like it.”

“Of course it doesn’t. You don’t know shit about this! How could you know how to feel about it!” He heard the sound of a chair being pushed back. “This isn’t new for you. This is you. There is nothing more you than this entire thought process!”

“I- Fair point.”

“You have more control in this than you ever did living under our Father.”

“Yes.”

“You need to be telling yourself that.”

“It’s difficult.”

“No shit, Sunday!” She was verbally scolding him over the phone. He missed when she could this in person. “Everything with us has always been difficult!”

“I know that!”

“Stop acting like you can’t fucking do this, Then!”

“I-”

“You are the most stubborn headed driven person I know! You have never let something stop you once you get your mind set on something! So get your mind fucking set here!”

“I didn’t-”

“Sunday!” She scoffed through the screen. “You are my beloved brother, I love you so much, But you need to smack yourself out of whatever cycle your head has been looping on.”

“..Right.”

“You need your confidence back. You need to believe in yourself for five minutes!” He could hear her pacing around in whatever room she was in. Probably her office. “My theory is: Two boyfriends would help with that!”

“Who knows if th-”

“Don’t be oblivious! Nothing would go this way without them wanting that. Stelle told me! I saw it myself! Aventurine doesn’t care and is crazy about you! Veritas does care and wants you anyway!”

“I still don’t see why-”

“Who cares!”

“I do! Just because they might not care does not mean I don’t care about how I treated them!”

“Sunday, You’ll be told why. You’ll be told whatever reason under the moon it could be that they have chosen to come to you and communicate with the hope of dating you. It doesn’t matter what it is. They have one! They both have a reason! You want to communicate! They do too! That is not something to be torturing your head over!”

“I know!”

“Crying in that isn’t a bad thing. Losing your composure? Not a bad thing! It just might happen. Halovians are emotive. You especially. If they care about you getting weepy talking about everything wrong with your life then you shouldn’t want to be with them!”

“I know! Robin, I-”

“Then what, Sunday? Are you going to let your anxiety take this cycle over again? Or are you going to take a minute and tell yourself the truth until you stop torturing yourself!”

“I’m sorry! Alright? I clearly needed that.”

He sighed and took a deep breath. He got so focused on her yelling at him that he stopped crying. He felt a lot calmer.

“I’m not done!” She was still yelling, but she had calmed down a bit now. There was less of a bite in what she was saying. “It’s the same thing with the Express crew! You’re letting it cycle in your head over and over what they could be feeling and how they could feel one day! I bet you feel better when you’re with them, Right? That’s because you can’t deny how they feel about you! They like you! They’ve proven it! You’re one of them!”

“I know!”

“Welt especially!”

“What even was that talk of yours? He told me to ask you about it.”

“I’m in the middle of yelling at you!”

“And?”

“He misses being a dad! He’s acting on this weird gut feeling in his stomach that makes him want to be fatherly to people! He knows what it looks like to not have a father or general parental figure and he spotted it dead on you! And he’s right!”

“I- That’s a little weird for me!”

“Of fucking course it is! But you love it.”

“I-”

“Sunday.”

“You’re right!” He scoffed and rolled his eyes. Not like she could see that. “Of course you’re right. It just feels wrong! Like I’m not supposed to have this. I can’t get used to the feeling when I’m used to it being so tainted. So forgive me if it feels a little weird!”

“I know it's going to feel weird! You just can’t let that stop you. You’re getting so caught up in yourself you’re not focusing on anything else! If you stopped resisting the care it’d be a lot easier to give, You know!”

“I know! I’m just bad at this! You kinda force care onto me!”

“I’ll tell them to do that, then!”

“No! I’m not a child.”

“Then don’t act like one!”

“Hey!”

“Okay.” She sighed. “Too far. I’m sorry. You aren’t being childish. You’re scared.”

“Oh come-”

“That’s not a bad thing!”

“I know!” He groaned. “You have sufficiently smacked me in the head with logic. Can we go back to talking?”

“Yes.” He heard her sit back down in her chair. “I’m sorry I was harsh. You just need that sometimes. You need therapy. Not religious therapy. A brand new therapist.”

“I’m not denying that. I have a list I’ll contact in a few days.”

“Why are we waiting?”

“Because I do not want to make important decisions when I am feverish. Also, I’ve had a lot of changes? I’d just enjoy a few days to settle.”

“Ah, so it's something you can control. Not that I’m pushing you to rush. It just makes sense, I guess.”

“Well. Yes. It is.”

“I just can’t be there to be the one to snap yourself out of this consistently. I would if I could, Honestly. I just can’t. That's not sustainable for either of us. We both know you have to do this with me, too.” She sighed and took a deep breath. “I’d feel a lot better about that if you had a professional to do that for you. On a regular basis. I’m sure you’d feel better too. Don’t rush. Don’t sign yourself up for more than you can truly handle. But you can’t let yourself torture yourself either!”

“I plan on it, Robin. I promise. I’m not putting it off, I’m not using it as a desperate grasp onto anything resembling free will on the handle. I’m just giving myself space.”

The ice packs on his torso were useless at this point. Mostly melted. He flopped them over on the bed.

“Thank you. I-I really did need that. I got so lost that I..I don’t know. It doesn’t matter. Thank you.”

“I uh, Did interrupt you a lot.” She chuckled on the other line. “Is there anything I missed?”

“Honestly?” He chuckled with her. “I don’t think I need to say anything else. About that, I mean.”

“Good.” He could hear the smile on her cheeks. “I’m sorry for calling you childish.”

“It’s alright. Really. I know that isn’t what you meant. I deserved it.”

“Still.. It was uncalled for.”

“What did you mean by, ‘You saw it?’ by the way?”

“Sunday, Aventurine is crazy for you. Honestly, he might just be crazy?” She laughed. “It seems like he’s trying to actually make a good impression on me. Stelle let it slip that he was incredibly high when I first texted him and that he was freaking out about not leaving a bad taste in my mouth.”

“That..makes sense. Veritas has been..well, Forward.”

“Oh my aeons! Right!” He heard her smack herself on the forehead through the phone. “I talked with him last night and it was weird. Aventurine called it hot! It was just weird!”

“Oh?”

“It was all very flattering? Aventurine described it as ‘something that was definitely a compliment but designed to make you reflect and think upon your actions repeatedly’.” She laughed again. Everytime she did he felt himself relax just a bit more. “Pretty good sum. Aventurine seemed into it though. They’re weird men.”

“I am a weird man. I suppose it’s fitting. They’re…invigorating.” He chuckled. “He did the same thing to me right before I asked to talk, too. Sort of what made me ask.”

“We toe the line of talking about your dating life very well, Sunday. Do not ruin it by saying invigorating like that.”

“I feel like normal siblings talk about their dating life, Surely?”

“We are not normal!”

“Ah, fair enough.” He laughed at that. He even rubbed his face to try and wipe the smile off of it. “They’re repairing a piano for me. And I heard them whispering about getting me a Bass.”

“Aw!”

“I’m excited. I was so hooked on the anxiety of owing them that I forgot to relish in that excitement, I think.”

“Good! You should be excited!”

“It’ll be nice. If I can..play, I mean.”

“The lack of mobility is truly awful, Sunday. I’m sorry. Hopefully it won’t take long until you’re on the mend?” Robin softly supplies. “Those are two things you can do sitting down. I’m sure it won’t take long.”

“Right.” He sighed. “I’ll get used to this eventually. The wraps and braces feel weird. In a good way, though. Feels more normal. I just wish they had a better texture.”

“I’m sure you can look into ones that feel better, right?”

“Welt already mentioned it. He just doesn’t know where to look.” He coughed and took a second to breathe. “I should mention it to Veritas. He likely knows.”

“That’s a good idea.” She made a soft grunt. Likely stretching. “Your voice sounds like it’s dwindling. Might be time to get off the phone?”

“I still have to do a lot of talking today. So that is a good idea.”

“I’m happy you reached out to talk. I’m sorry things are so rough right now.”

“I’ll manage. Thank you for talking some sense into me. I truly needed it.” He heard the noise of footsteps starting to head upstairs. “I love you and I miss you. Don’t let your work suffocate you.”

“I won’t. Otherwise you’ll have to scold me, and I don’t think you should be doing that right now.” She laughed for a few seconds. “I love you and miss you too. Text me if you need anything, Okay?”

“I will.”

—–˗ˏˋ 𓅮 ˎˊ˗—--

Time has come and passed. Welt brought Sunday a full meal; Pancakes, hashbrowns, sausages, and a bowl of fruit. He managed to eat most of it with the help of his appetite and anti-emetic medication. They had soft conversation, His braces and wraps were put on, he had another bath of icepacks, and most importantly; The crutches were replaced with the wheelchair. He likely wouldn’t be cleared to be navigating with it alone for a few weeks or so, up to Veritas, but it was better than the struggle he had that morning.

The stipulation of the visit happening two hours earlier didn’t seem like a big deal in his head at first. Now, Veritas is on the way upstairs after only a few hours. He had his composure intact this time around; but very little preparation time. He would be lying if he said that his breathing didn’t hitch when there was a knock on the door.

Welt gave him the choice of his presence or not. He said he would be fine.

He was slightly regretting that choice.

“Come in.”

The door opened to reveal Veritas and a few bags in his arms. He very quickly sat them down on the nearby couch and walked over to the side of the bed.

“How are you feeling?”

“Less terrible than yesterday.” Sunday swallowed and let his hands fold in his lap. He was still sitting upwards being held by the pile of pillows. “Sickness wise, Almost perfect. My throat is still in pain. I cough occasionally. Otherwise, I’ve noticed nothing.”

“Good.” He nodded. “I’d like to begin by examining the injuries you told me about earlier. Could I?”

“You’ll need to take the brace off to examine, but yes.” Sunday nodded and held up his right wrist. “The brace helped with the swelling. Iced them both twice.”

Veritas pulled the wrist brace off with ease. His rough fingers flipped his hand over a few times. Tested mobility and felt how deep the swelling went. Sunday winced a few times but otherwise it went alright. There was a bruise where the impact occurred. It was doing alright, though.

“It’s sprained. However, the swelling is significantly better than I expected. The decision for ice and bracing was exactly what you needed.” He gently slipped the brace back onto his wrist and let go. “Your torso?”

“I’ll need assistance laying down.” Sunday’s wings fluttered at the side of his head as he spoke. Veritas just nodded and put one hand on his back and another slid under his thighs. He was moved down a few inches and softly laid onto his back. Sunday slid his shirt upwards afterwards. “Thank you.”

“This is more what I was expecting.” He didn’t comment when Sunday’s wings flew to cover his face. His cheeks had to be stained at this point. He could tell there was considerable effort going into his movements. Not sharp, not fast. Attempting to not cause any unnecessary pain. “Your ribcage is definitely bruised. This swelling follows what your body typically produces. I advise to ice it regularly to assist the swelling and pain. I’d be more concerned if you had more mobility, but just in case try to avoid bending over or anything that would put pressure on the area.”

“Alright. Thank you.” Veritas stood up again as Sunday pulled his shirt back down. “Could you help sit me back up? Or do you need me laying down still? Maybe I should have asked Welt to stay..”

“It’s fine.” Ratio nodded and moved to sit Sunday back up. “Next thing I have is that I would like to give you a physical examination based on a hypothesis. It’s been a while since I’ve had a hands on medical case so I needed to brush up on a lot of things last night. All the genetic testing I started with turned out inconclusive or empty. While many things will need further testing and a diagnostic process, there is something I theorize you may have that is minimally invasive. Hence my request for another physical examination. I will be testing your skin elasticity and joint hypermobility. I already know your tissue tends to be fragile.”

“Oh. Alright.” Sunday sighed and unfurled his wings from his face. “Go ahead.”

Veritas then continued to do multiple tests. He started with his skin elasticity.

First, he took off the brace on his left wrist and laid his hand out flat. He pinched the back of his hand and lifted the skin for five seconds, Then counted how fast his skin went back to normal. His skin stretched around two and a half inches. His skin bounced back instantly. Veritas continued to do the same thing on his forearm, his cheek, and his stomach. He hummed and went to one of his bags, took out a clipboard, and started to write.

After a few moments he continued. He went around and touched almost every single one of his joints and moved them around. Different positions, Different angles. Even his pinkies got tested. He said there were a handful that would have to wait until Sunday was more mobile, but this would be enough for him for what he needs. After around eight minutes of continuous joint testing, He moved to sit in the chair at the side of the bed.

“Alright. I believe it is more than safe to say you have Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Which type it is at this point I cannot fully diagnose. Multiple classifications have issues with skin fragility, elasticity, abnormal healing, alongside joint instability. So this will require future investigation.” Veritas crossed his legs and leaned forward on his knee. “I believe it is still helpful. It’s something to keep in mind. Something to research more in your free time.”

“Oh. Alright.” Sunday swallowed. “I assume it’s permanent?”

“Yes. It’s also genetic, so I would mention this to Robin.”

“Okay. I will.”

“I would like you to start closely monitoring your blood pressure. It could help us with future diagnostic queries.” He put the clipboard down on the nightstand and looked at him. “Otherwise, If you have nothing to bring to my attention, I have some things I have brought for you. Then I will remove your IV and we can be done with this part of my visit.”

“I don’t think I have anything. I already mentioned everything needed.” Sunday raised his eyebrow and slightly tilted his head. “You brought things for me?”

“Yes. First, Welt mentioned you had some discomfort in the wrappings and braces given, which I expected.” He walked over to grab both of the bags he brought into the room and moved them to sit on top of the bed. He brought out a box, opened it, and gently placed it in Sunday’s lap. “So I had already located some softer ones. Every single one is lined with a soft fabric to be less irritating for your skin.”

“Oh! Thank you. I was going to ask. I forgot.” He grabbed one of the bandage wraps and pinched the fabric between his fingers. It’s significantly better. “That feels much nicer. I appreciate it.”

“Next.” Ratio walked back over to the bag the wraps came out of and just picked it up. “This is full of pre-made snacks and drinks. Incredibly healthy, sweet, small things you can easily eat. There are some made to be high in protein. I included some electrolyte mixers and additives. These are all things that should be easily adaptable with your diet. I am hopeful with the information that the appetite stimulants are alleviating, however you are too close to the line for my comfort. You need to gain weight. I thought this would help with that.”

“You cannot afford to do this for all of your patients.” Sunday chuckled. “Thank you.”

“You aren’t like many of my patients. I do not have many patients in the first place.” He walked to the kitchen counter and put the bag on the counter before returning to the remaining one. “Money is not an issue for me. Or Kakavasha, who insisted on paying for most of it due to us grabbing these on our way here. If you like them it’s something the Express can easily access. If not, you’ll be able to try other ones.”

Sunday rolled his eyes and nodded. Veritas pulled out the only items in that bag. Three boxes varying in size.

“You mentioned that massaging tended to help your back. So I obtained a back massager that requires no effort, alongside a massage gun that needs manual input. The third item is a heating pad. Both are to assist with alleviating pain and inflammation.” He put all three boxes on the nightstand and moved his clipboard into the bag. “The back massager is designed for Halovians; but it will not be perfect for you. However the settings are adjustable, I am confident once you figure out the preferred settings you will benefit. If you need assistance configuring it, I can help before I go.”

“This is incredibly helpful. Thank you.” He looked at the boxes and then up at the man. He gave him a gentle smile. “I appreciate it a lot. You’ve already done a lot for me. This is..thank you.”

“I care about your rehabilitation. I think you’re fascinating; in multiple ways. This is a challenging case that I am supremely qualified for; and it gave us a chance to speak.”

He put the bag on the floor and unhooked the empty IV. He detached the tubing from the site and deconstructed the stand to fit inside the bag. Then he walked over to the sink to wash his hands. He returned with a sterile cotton ball in his hand and raised his eyebrow.

“May I remove the IV?”

“Yes.” Sunday held out his arm and directed his gaze the other way. In three quick seconds the gauze was removed from his skin, the needle was removed, and the cotton ball was held down against the site. It was taped down by some medical tape quickly afterward.

“All done.” He threw away the gauze and then looked up to face him. “Should I go fetch Kakavasha?”