A/N: Please make sure to read Part 1 before moving on to Part 2. Thank you!

---

"It has been a while since I woke up with peace."

Caelus woke from the dream and now he was in his room in the Reverie. He lay in a clam shell filled with water, looking up at the ceiling and admiring the beauty of simple reality.

His eyes gazed upon each opulent marble on the ceiling, decorations filled with constellations.

He whispered, "Has my room always been this beautiful...?"

There was no doubt that due to long exposure to the eccentric designs and blueprints of the dreamscape, he was having a hard time discerning the level of artistry before him.

He stood up and the water that once covered him dripped off his clothes, as if they had never been wet in the first place.

He looked around and saw that his belongings were still there on the chair and the room was basically untouched. "Huh, I would've thought that security would barge in and try to look for me. I guess they must have that much confidence that I am still alive."

It was weird because the messages he received from the Astral Express and others ranged from greetings to outright bombarding him with messages to search for him and his whereabouts.

He still remembered March's messages about freezing his balls off the longer that he remained missing, which sent him shivers.

"Could it be that no one tried to look for me because Robin was the last one to see me within the Family? If it's her, then everything should be fine then, but that doesn't mean I am off the hook just yet. Ergh... How am I going to tell them?"

Caelus had a right to be worried, even if Robin, who he assumed was now in charge of the Oak Family, replacing Sunday—screw that man—would report about him as she was the last witness, if he wasn't counting Mei and Firefly.

He smiled at the thought of them, "Hopefully Mei can get around alone without me... I did say I have some unfinished business to attend to, and she's very understanding."

He sat down on the luxurious bench, "As for Firefly... hopefully, she stays in contact with the Astral Express. She's a nice woman, and no doubt that would make Kafka and the others happy that we are maintaining a closer tie with them, even if Himeko seemed a bit cautious towards her. Though, I wonder what Mei said to her...?"

He'll have to think about that later; it's best not to dwell on the topic that was discussed between the women.

For now, he would have to open his hotel room door and get to the main lobby. He stood up from his bench, walked to his door, and then stopped.

"I don't remember having that."

He was staring at a mirror on his side table and quickly noticed something he didn't quite remember: A patch of white hair among his silvery gray hair.

"Could it be..."

He didn't really know if it was due to Kevin or if he was stressed throughout the entire time, which resulted in his hair whitening.

He sighed and touched the patch, "I look like an old man now. Never mind, I'll just head to the lobby and meet whoever is there."

He turned around, headed to his door, opened it, and walked out, seeing many foreigners in the corridor.

He then walked along the corridor and headed down to the main lobby, where he spotted a familiar old man.

"Hello, Welt," Caelus casually greeted as he walked toward where Welt was sitting near a bar.

Welt, who had been drinking, was caught off guard by the familiar voice, one he hadn't heard ever since Sunday took over Order.

"Caelus...?" The former Herrscher stood up and looked toward Caelus, who was greeting him with a wave of his hand.

The old man was happy to see that Caelus looked well and simply nodded at him, "It's nice seeing you, Caelus. I knew I could believe in you. Without your help, who knows what kind of devastation would've occurred."

Caelus walked to Welt and nodded, looking at the drink held by the old man, "You must've been stressed out by me, huh... I am sorry for not keeping in touch with everyone."

Welt smiled like a father and gestured for Caelus to sit down, which he did, "You have no idea the chaos you've caused by simply disappearing. Himeko and the others had to utilize their sources and network to find you, and we thought that things wouldn't have prevailed if it weren't for Sunday making his plans known to us."

Caelus sighed and he took a nearby glass of water, "I had my own fair share of adventures in the dreamscape, one that I am grateful for."

Welt nodded. To him, Caelus must've experienced severe oddities that resulted in him having powers that were identical to his home world.

As much as he wanted Caelus to be comfortable, now he wanted to ask him questions.

Welt sipped his drink, "Caelus... I will be straight with you, how did you come into contact with the blade? The sword of fire that you wielded when we met previously."

Caelus looked at Welt, staring him in the eyes, "Without going into too much detail, I received a gift from someone in your world. His name was Kevin Kaslana."

Welt frowned. Kevin was supposed to be dead after the Herrscher Trio defeated him, but to think that he had been in this world before he and the Void Archive transported here.

Welt warned him, "Kevin was a hero of the past, but a danger to the world."

Caelus nodded, "I know, but his ideology kept the world evolving, even if his methodology was questionable. He means well, Welt, and I can assure you that you don't have to worry about me, I can handle this."

Welt downed another drink, "You speak as if you know Kevin much better than me."

Caelus sighed, "That is because I have fused myself with him—his memories, powers, and everything associated."

Caelus' amnesia played a significant role here, as the many gaps in his memories were filled in by Kevin's memories instead, which made the process smooth—and coupled with the Stellaron doing wonders in his body, the inheritance left by Kevin was smooth sailing.

Welt rubbed his forehead, feeling a buildup of stress that might blow up soon enough.

Caelus softly smiled, "Somehow you're taking all of this too well, but then again... you were a former Herrscher."

Welt sighed, "I didn't think I would be talking about Honkai and anything related to me this early, but here we are. You are like a walking cheater made into reality."

Caelus chuckled, understanding what Welt was trying to say. While people tried to train and connect with everything to attain power, Caelus already had them by simply talking to one man and having him accept him.

Yep, Welt had a point. It was unfair to almost everyone.

Welt continued, "But... I can see that you are still the same, even if there are many differences in your characteristics."

Caelus smirked, "Would you say that I am more mature?"

Welt adjusted his spectacles to align with his finger, "Maturity comes with age and experience, but your childishness retains and mingles with Kevin's wisdom. I do not know what comes next, but from what I can see, it's all for the better. You have somehow found harmony within yourself, and I trust you to keep things in check."

Caelus gulped. Welt had mentioned harmony, and he didn't know if he should spill the beans.

'What would people say if I tell them that I was blessed by the Aeon of Harmony themselves?'

Now that Caelus knew Welt was fine with him, he decided to change the topic. "So... how's everyone else? I mean, the ones outside the Nameless."

Caelus wanted to ask the others through his device, but getting a perspective from Welt would greatly benefit him regarding their past actions and behaviors.

Welt hummed, "Boothill was given residency by the Family for his assistance with Robin, who thankfully announced to everyone that you were alive and needed... isolation? Have you apparently done something, Caelus?"

Changing topics may have backfired. Shoot.

Caelus whistled and looked away, making Welt suspicious.

To the old man, Caelus was acting as if he was hiding a big secret, a behavior he had seen before. How did he know? He had experienced this before.

Welt, using the semblance of the Herrscher of Reason's power through his cane, conjured all sorts of people and their encounters with Caelus and the Astral Express, conducting a process of elimination to determine whom Caelus may have fallen for.

'Would Tesla be proud of me for using my powers so recklessly? No, I am sure she would approve of this, all in the name of science,' he thought as he crossed many women off the list.

Which all led to one, and he was baffled by it. 'Of course... it's her.'

The purple-haired woman he had met when Caelus introduced her to the Astral Express Crew: Acheron.

Welt slapped his forehead, "To think the parallels are there... I can't say if I should be worried if the Kaslana curse will come in the foreseeable future."

He looked at Caelus, who was busy drinking his water slowly, with the grace of a seasoned warrior.

The world really likes to play tricks with him, to think that a variant of Raiden Mei and Kevin Kaslana would be here...

He'll have to give extra attention to Caelus from now on, or else...

'I don't want to think about the flames that he will set to the world if his loved one is harmed.'

Caelus looked at Welt, who was deep in thought, and sighed. The old man probably already had an idea, as expected of the man respected by Kevin.

He started the conversation, "I guess you already know..."

Welt straightened his back, "I know love when I see it, so it is rather obvious to me... it is her, isn't it? Ms. Acheron."

Caelus nodded and looked at the still water in his glass, "Yeah... Which is why I want to ask you this."

Welt quirked a brow, readying himself, "What is it?"

Caelus gulped and the fiery embers ignited in his eyes, "Do you approve of my relationship with her?"

Welt sensed another rise of headache, 'For some reason, that sounded like a threat, and I should be saying yes to him.'

The fire in Caelus' soul, as guided and reflected through the windows of his soul that are his eyes, Welt could see the potential disaster that would be unleashed if he answered wrongly.

'Heh, I am in danger... But do I approve of her?'

Acheron was similar to Raiden Mei, more or less. Well, there were many similarities; looks, hobby, and weapon, but personality? He couldn't really judge her on that aspect.

'But considering that she's making him happy... then I should have no worries for him.'

Even if Welt has accepted that Caelus is almost like Kevin Kaslana in every way, he was still worried by the destructive abilities the man wielded, but if someone is there to comfort him with love, then it should be fine.

After all, from what Boothill had told him, Acheron too is a dangerous woman herself.

But wouldn't that mean he would have to be more aware of his surroundings, now that two people with extraordinary powers have become a couple?

Yep, he'll have to drink more alcohol later. It's best not to drown himself in stress thinking about it.

Welt answered Caelus after a long thought, "After a long ordeal, it's not my place to judge what you do, as long as it doesn't cause danger to the world."

Caelus beamed a smile, a happy one, "That's honestly better than what I thought, thanks, Welt."

Welt nodded and the headache for some reason disappeared, "Good... now, shall we go back to the train? The others are actually in there. Apparently, they are in a discussion with someone, and they didn't tell me who, nor invited me to the meeting, hence why I am here drinking..."

Caelus' expression became curious. Who would Himeko and the others be talking with for Welt not to be involved...?

No point in pondering if they're heading there anyway.

"By the way, why didn't you use your cane against Sunday? You could've cut time shorter and saved yourself from him."

"I had reservations about myself."

"Eh, what do you mean?"

"Don't worry, let's keep on walking."

"Fine..."

---

"Well, well, well~ Look who we have here! The man whose balls I am about to freeze!" March teased.

"March, don't intimidate him," Dan Heng interjected.

"Oh, quiet, Dan Heng! This is just a light reprimand for making us worry," March retorted.

"Relax, both of you. I'm fine, see? Not a scratch on me," Caelus assured them, showing his unblemished skin.

"See, March? He's alright," Dan Heng pointed out.

"That does it, Dan Heng! You're next to feel my wrath!" March exclaimed.

"This woman..." Dan Heng muttered under his breath.

Caelus smiled at March and Dan Heng; he was finally back aboard the Astral Express. He observed their playful squabble as Himeko and another woman paused their discussion to greet him and Welt.

Himeko smiled and waved, seemingly unperturbed. "Welcome back, Caelus. Robin has filled me in on your crucial role in thwarting Sunday's plan."

Caelus waved back, "Thanks, Himeko... I expected a bit of a scolding for not keeping in touch."

Himeko laughed lightly, "As I said, Robin briefed me on everything, so you're off the hook. I'd prefer to scold you, but I'm just glad you're safe."

Gratefully, Caelus acknowledged Himeko's kindness, though he was unaware of her quiet competition with Kafka over who cared for him best.

Another tale for another time.

Turning to Robin, who greeted him with a wave, Caelus responded, "It's good to see you again, Robin. I imagine it's been challenging stepping into your brother's shoes."

Robin shook her head, "Thank you for your concern, but I have the whole Family to support me in rebuilding Penacony and even assisting me with something more... personal."

Caelus knew what she meant. From what Kevin had experienced as the Flame-Chasers' leader, the role itself was daunting and it had given him many insights on what to do and what to achieve.

To lead is to have steel in one's heart. Anything for the greater good.

"Best of luck with everything, Robin," he said, bowing slightly—an action that took Robin by surprise.

"Oh, no need for formality, Caelus. I was my brother's assistant; I'm prepared. But thank you for your concern," Robin said, her cheeks coloring.

For a man who was ready to burn her brother to smithereens, she was surprised to see another side of him now that was gentlemanlike. Maybe she could invite him to her concert as the main VIP?

No! She would have to cool herself down later after this meeting ends.

Actually, this would be a cue to leave now, so Robin hastily said, "Oh, would you look at the time? I need to go now and meet the rest of the family!"

Caelus raised an eyebrow, "So soon? I've just arrived."

Robin glanced around, more flustered, "I—I really must go. Take care!"

With that, Robin hurried off the train, leaving a trail of startled yet amused onlookers behind.

Caelus scratched his head, then turned to the others, "Well, now that she's gone, how is everyone else doing?"

Welt took a seat, and Himeko busied herself with her coffee concoction.

"All good over here!" March declared, halting her bickering with Dan Heng. "I actually proposed to this dear dragon here, and he said yes!"

Caelus was incredibly surprised by this. A development he hadn't anticipated between the two leading to newfound romance? Yes, he had been missing out on a lot.

He turned to Dan Heng, "Congratulations, Dan Heng. I'm thrilled for you both. I know you'll need the support, especially since... you know."

Dan Heng smiled softly at Caelus, "Thank you for your gracious words, Caelus."

The Vidyadhara was perplexed. How did Caelus know of his past predicament? Could it be that he had read the letter that was placed on the train by Jingliu?

Hopefully, the woman doesn't catch a whiff of Caelus, especially now that he felt stronger than before.

Strong enough to take on all of the Astral Express Crew with ease.

March was elated beyond belief, as if she had just received blessings from Caelus, "Thanks, raccoon! Hopefully, your relationship with Ms. Acheron will become special like ours!"

Cough!

Welt sighed; he knew this would come sooner or later, but he decided to remain silent for now.

March and Dan Heng looked at Caelus, who had coughed. Something was suspicious about his reaction... Ah!

"We have another couple on the train!"

Dan Heng softly smacked March on the head, "Don't shout."

"Meanie!"

Dan Heng shook his head, and Himeko, having finished brewing her potent coffee, approached them, "Now, now, he hasn't said anything, even if it's true—"

"Hey!"

"It's unfair for all of us to assume he is in a relationship with Ms. Acheron, even if the signs are there."

Pom-Pom entered the commotion out of nowhere, "That's true! Though from what I see, Caelus really is entranced."

Caelus was surprised to see Pom-Pom here, "Pom-Pom! Since when did you get here?"

Pom-Pom deadpanned at him as they sighed, "I've been here from the beginning. Don't tell me you didn't see me as you walked into the train?"

Caelus whistled, saying nothing. Silence is a rather effective method to answer people without causing much distress, which made Pom-Pom tap his leg.

Himeko giggled as she sipped her coffee, "It's nice to see such a lively atmosphere. Speaking of which, I have another guest who has just arrived here."

Caelus tilted his head while he was busy playing with Pom-Pom, petting them like a cat. He wondered who the guest was.

Before long, the familiar steps of boots filled the train and Caelus quickly turned his head.

"Mei...?"

Himeko nodded, "Mei? So that is her real name. Well, she contacted me for a request and I needed everyone's vote for it."

Mei entered the lobby with her umbrella closed and bowed to everyone, "Hello, everyone."

March waved her arm cheerfully at her while Dan Heng and Welt nodded. Caelus, on the other hand, was thrilled to see her again.

Caelus placed Pom-Pom on the floor and rushed to Mei, hugging her like a bear.

Mei merely smiled at his affectionate action, "I thought I was the clingy one... but it's nice to see that you love me very much."

Caelus continued his hug, not wanting to let her go. "Just making sure."

Mei hugged back, "While I would love to continue this for a lot longer, I believe I should address an important matter to the Nameless first..."

Oh right, Himeko had received a request from Mei about something, and Caelus was curious about it.

He managed to free himself, albeit very slowly and torturously, but in the end, he decided to stand beside her.

Mei tilted her head as everyone looked at her as if they had expected this, "I assume they know about our relationship."

Caelus nodded, "Yep, I kind of made it obvious."

Mei hummed, "Then that makes things easier. Himeko, you may announce your piece."

Caelus wondered what Mei had asked from Himeko for them to be casting something. It must be something very important.

The others, too, were expectant.

Himeko gently announced, "Ms. Acheron has expressed her desire to join the Astral Express and accompany us on our journey, as a member of our family."

!

Caelus looked at Mei, astonishment etched across his face. Mei reflected thoughtfully, "I took your words to heart; you said you'd do anything for me, and yourself, so... I want us to be together until death parts us."

Caelus' voice wavered slightly, "You're making me tear up..."

With a gentle smile, Mei apologized, "I'm sorry."

The others watched, their faces alight with joy at the tender exchange, and even March seemed moved to tears. Thus, they cast their votes.

"I'm all for it!"

"Same here."

"Pom-Pom approves."

"I'm in favor."

Himeko, with a nod of affirmation, announced, "It seems we are unanimous. Then I, as the navigator of the Astral Express, am thrilled to welcome Acheron into our family. We're poised for an intriguing journey ahead."

Everyone responded with enthusiastic thumbs up, and Himeko continued, "You two should enjoy your date, while we handle things here."

Caelus, holding Mei's hand, turned to Himeko, "Are you sure? We can pitch in..."

Himeko waved off his concern, "No need. Robin informed me of you and Ms Acheron's pivotal role in saving Penacony. Because of your efforts, you both are to be treated with the same reverence as the Heads of the Family. Rest easy."

Caelus was puzzled—when had Robin discussed Acheron's role with Himeko? Perhaps Black Swan had briefed the Halovian. This simplified matters.

With a nod of gratitude, Caelus thanked Himeko. Mei added, "Thank you, everyone, for embracing my place on the Astral Express..."

With a dismissive yet friendly wave, Himeko encouraged them, "If you need anything, just reach out. Now, off you go. Enjoy yourselves!"

Caelus returned the thumbs up, departing with Mei, who also nodded her thanks to the group.

Now alone, the lobby fell silent until March broke it, half-jokingly.

"So... should we consider investing in soundproofing equipment?"

"March!"

---

Caelus and Mei found themselves back in the dreamscape. The Golden Hour shone as brightly as ever.

They approached the ledge overlooking the theater, still under repairs.

Caelus gave Mei a soft glance. He could hardly believe that they, together, were now part of the Nameless. Today felt like the best day of his life.

The previous tension in Penacony had dissolved, now replaced by the original spirit of entertainment and joy that the planet was known for.

Mei fumbled in her pocket and pulled out a piece of paper.

Curious, Caelus leaned over to see what was written on it.

"Eh, these are..." he started.

Mei nodded, "A list of activities Kafka gave me. She thought it would be best to explore these with you."

Caelus brushed a strand of hair from his forehead. "I can't believe she set us up on a date... I owe her thanks for that."

Mei examined the list intently. "Yes, this guide will be useful for our time here in Penacony. Kafka is indeed resourceful."

"She's always been sharp," Caelus agreed, reminiscing. "Even in dangerous times in Xianzhou Luofu, she seemed to have countless backup plans."

"Mmm, we should try the café she mentioned. It specializes in peach pastries and goods," Mei hummed.

Caelus revisited the list with a grin. "And after that, I want to see you in a wedding dress. You must look stunning. I can already picture it."

Mei covered her blushing face with the paper. "Please don't..."

"Then, I'll wear a groom's outfit and stand next to you. We should get a photographer to take thousands of pictures!"

"That sounds lovely..." Mei whispered.

The thought of dancing in wedding attire made her smile with anticipation.

"It is! Let's head to that café you mentioned. I'm suddenly craving peaches," Caelus declared.

Mei looked at him with a calm expression. "Yes... let's go."

Caelus smiled warmly. "Have I told you I love you today?"

Overwhelmed by his words, Mei responded, "You just did."

Pulling her close, Caelus affirmed, "I love you."

"I love you too," Mei replied, leaning in for a kiss.

As they kissed, the Golden Hour's sky brightened to an orange glow, casting an enlightened aura over them. It was a brief kiss, but it was enough; they still had much to explore.

Walking hand in hand, they seemed wrapped in a loving aura. The chaotic days in Penacony were behind them, and now it was their time to revel in life.

Reflected in a nearby mirror were two figures on their date: a white-haired man and a purple-haired woman with glasses.

But now, the present unfolded, turning the dreams of past couples into reality in the form of Caelus and Raiden Bosenmori Mei.

A dream from the Previous Era:

A world where the good are the victors.

A world of only peace.

A world of only love.

End of Chapter

A/N: Hello, everyone! I want to thank all of you for reading through to the end! I didn't expect to finish this book, but here we are.

How do I feel? I feel great—it's like a weight has been lifted off me. I realize there are many aspects that could have been explored in this book, but I didn't dwell on that too much. However, if you have any thoughts, feel free to leave a comment below.

I'm not sure what else to say, but thank you all again for your support—the reads, votes, and even adding this book to your reading lists! If you'd like more updates, you can follow me for future announcements.

I also have some good news: I've planned special chapters that will serve as sequels or slice-of-life stories related to this book, so stay tuned for that.

That's all for now. Thank you, everyone, and have a great day!