Epilogue

Daichi awoke to chirping birds. Soft groan filled his lips. White filled his eyes. A passing moment before his eyes adjusted to the bright morning sun from the window on the left.

A needle jabbed into his arm, filling some clear fluid. His back and chest felt sore. Like being cooked partway. An involuntary sigh. Once again in the hospital room. At this rate, he'd probably end up like some unfortunate high school student in another world.

A ruffle of paper caught his attention. Counter Guardian Archer was seated in the room, flicking the pages of newspaper with a hand. He called out to the man who obviously knew he was awake. "Archer, did we save the world?"

Archer continued to read. "Of course you idiot. Wouldn't be here in the first place, would we?"

Daichi laughed. Raspy before falling into a coughing gag. "That's right. I must be really nuts." Reality began to sank deeper onto his shoulders. A glance to his left hand. Faded red markings where the Command Seals once were. You'll be missed. "Did we lose anyone else? Besides Siegfried."

Archer settled the newspaper onto the arm of the chair. "Alicetaria and Selesia." Clean white bandages wrapped along the shoulder and left arm.

Daichi lazed back to bore holes into the ceiling. Damn. He suppressed from sighing and said. "Okay. You look like a mummy with all those."

"Please. Your circuits nearly burnt out from abuse. I wager you would have killed yourself if Siegfried didn't kill Lancelot in time."

Daichi lifted himself up, wincing from the sting. "Another idiot in the making. Not that I need to stay as one anymore."

Archer snorted. "That's right. War's over." The guardian continued on to explain the aftermath of the battle. He managed to defeat Altair by a lot of determination, luck and helping hands from other worlds.

"Other worlds, to think that possibility was real." Daichi chuckled. "I missed all the exciting bits." Apparently things were confusing for the audience. News outlets and forums were making a lot of noises. The government chose to say nothing and keep it quiet. It'll probably slide out into obscurity by the end of next week since there is no culprit to begin with.

"Not my problem. Get some rest Kid, we all earned it." The Red Guardian turned and opened the door. Someone dived into the room and his arm hurt from being squeezed so hard.

"You stupid idiot." Shizuka's eyes were filled with tears.

Daichi gave a faint smile before wrapping a hand around her. "Ow."

"What on earth were you thinking, pulling of such kind of stunt?" She struck him lightly a few times, eliciting several gasps of pain. Still feels like a truck.

"Why were you doing something so dangerous?"

"How did you know?"

She deadpanned to him. "You'd think I'd be dumb enough not to notice Archer's face plastered on the video screen? Your voice in the background? It was obvious that you're involved with all your shenanigans." Oh crap. Her sigh stung him. "Of all the people I had to fall in love with."

Daichi gave a sheepish smile to placate her. He caught a glance of Kikuchihara by the door. Archer walked out and shut the door behind him, giving them the privacy he wanted.

"I'm sorry." He said, lifting himself back up. "Guess the cat's out of the bag now."

"Now, are you going to tell me the real story of what happened?"

"What did the lady tell you?"

She frowned. "That you're one of the players in the festival."

"It's going to be a long story…"

A finger pointed at the clock. "We have all day." There's no running from her.

Daichi started from the beginning. How he came to meet Archer, how they ended up working together with the other Creators. Receiving Magic Circuits and putting them to summon Siegfried. Involved in a secret war to protect the world against Altair and her former goons.

In between points, she'd throw some frowns and displeasure at hearing how he ended up in the hospital twice. That earned him a few more painful pinches to the cheek. Beyond that, he summarised the points of how the battles he was involved. How he stayed far from the battle until the end.

"Why you have to be such an idiot?" He definitely shouldn't mix her with Archer next time. They'll roast him up nice and good.

Daichi gave a gentle squeeze to her hand. "All's well now isn't it?"

"That's what you always say. Look who's on the bed right now." She rested her head against his shoulder.

Daichi conceded, giving her arm a soft rub. "I'll make it up to you. A sad lot of a hero's got to do at least that."

"You better do." She grabbed his face and leaned close. Far too close.

I'll be damned. Daichi blinked at the sudden kiss before his thoughts melted away.

The Bird Cage Festival ended on generally a bright note. Heroes saved the day once again. Most people were happy from the results. An old man reached for the television remote and turned it off.

"Hey, I was still watching." The voice spoke behind the old man.

"That's the third rerun of it. I think it's enough watching." Old man said while putting the little tool back onto the coffee table.

"I could use some inspirational reinforcement." Said from the comfy chair.

"That you need to watch it three times?"

"There are always picky details that need more than one viewing." Comfy refused to back down. "It's been days and the world isn't over. What happens then, old man?"

Old man placed a hand on the sigil by the counter. It pulsed yellow before fading back to its darkened state. "This world's reality is correcting itself properly this time. It will be another few days before the changes are complete."

"What about the others?"

"They've been returned to where it is necessary. Deon has confirmed the news to me."

"Returned home. Finally the mess is over."

"Correct. I'll be picking the little young lings from their assignment."

The pair of hands stretched over the chair. "Finally I can get some peace. I hated it when I left my console back home."

"I'm certain you understood the urgency."

"Of course, however with your abilities, going back to pick it up would have saved me from boredom."

"Who will protect you in the meantime? Besides, wouldn't you rather refine your craft for your fans?"

"Procrastination at its finest." A sigh. "At least I managed to get something done in the meantime. It's been half a year. I can imagine how Takeuchi would be freaking, not that he needs me to be physically present."

The man stroked his beard. "Yes, Creator."

"Don't." The voice hardened. "Yes, I am a Creator but that doesn't mean I am your God."

"Friends then. Across the big picture, we've enjoyed a good show together of how our good heroes won the day. You can finally go home and enjoy your slacking life."

"Ha ha ha, that's the part of living. Trying to find enjoyment in the midst of deadlines. The world's changing by the day and I couldn't be ever lazier." The old man dispelled the sigil, its task completed. The rest in the attic and garden would disappear in concert.

"The part where the world was suppose to end. Did you know what happened?"

Old stroked his beard. "Someone paid a great price to revert Altair's destruction."

"What is that price?"

"Complete removal of a being or reality including any chance to exist. An existence removed to restore anew."

"A familiar concept more so with the idea of Quantum Time Lock. I'd add in Multiverse concept into the mix and that'll be another interesting streak to think about. Harsh but I hope the world's grateful to him, her or it." The elder said nothing in reply. "Have any plans to stay, or at least drop by?"

"This world is not meant for me. It would be too boring."

"That's right. You're one that always seek out the unique things in new worlds. Things would have been much simpler if you were there."

"Good things are worth watching."

"That is what make you, you after all." Old reached for the black staff by the door. "Before you go, you didn't rig the toilet seat by any chance again did you?"

Old smiled although he wouldn't see it. "No. I don't have the time. Setting up the support for them at the back occupied enough of my attention. You can be rest assured."

"When you say it like that, something is definitely up."

"Oho, well I'll leave the surprise to you." Old pushed Od into the staff. It would take a few minutes to power up the spell.

"If it's one of those sticky booby traps, I'll make sure to rewrite you to have an aneurysm."

A snort. "You can try but I wonder if the world would make sense to accept that."

"I am the author. Anything can happen."

"If you ever meet another version of me, tell him I say hi. And that I'm better than him." A flash of light before the world changed to the last step of the plan.

Sota bowed before pressing three sticks of incense into the grave's patch of sand before his feet. He stood up to gaze at the name one last time.

Setsuna Shimazaki.

The weight in his chest grew as his eyes bored deep into the plague. An unfortunate end for the girl. A lasting regret but he wasn't going to run away anymore.

Meteora placed her set of incense to finish the prayers to poor girl. Her gaze stern and focused on the task. The nearby birds on a nest chirped, a parent feeding its young. Watching the little family allowed his thoughts to wander.

The Internet had been abuzz with gossip and rumours to what happened since the end of the Elimination Chamber Festival. Harsh criticism flooded the news forums and pages about the many inconsistencies from the book to the final event, tropes used and how their favourite characters died. From Matsubara's point of view, while the comments were valid, they were just lucky to just make do. Kikuchihara decided to slot the results of the event as part of the government stereotype. Sota was glad to let things be buried in place.

Meteora's voice jolted him out of his thoughts. "Sota, I still wonder." She placed a few stalks of flowers into the patch to decorate the brown gravel. "What happened to her that she was able to appear in such a way?"

"Honestly, I don't know the real answer to that. If I put my mind to it, I'd guess that she wanted to come to the world, to help both us and Altair."

"For that to happen, it would have been a first. There hasn't been any evidence about such possibilities. Perhaps your efforts had bear fruit."

Sota nodded. "What hasn't happened doesn't mean it can't. Granted it took a lot of work and I had a lot of help. It wasn't enough in the end but somehow I feel that the effort put into it, it felt good."

"Marine told me about this joy beforehand. How it felt good to create something out of your own hands. I do not comprehend its full meaning but I find sense behind it. You've grown well Sota."

"I still have a long way to go." He closed his fist. "Everyone else has helped so much but I know that there's more to learn before I can reach the same level."

"Nevertheless, you've already taken the first step. While creation is something innate in mankind, it takes a special sense of bravery to reveal something very deep and emotional to the world."

Sota couldn't help himself from smiling. "That's right. Behind those works is a cloud of pain waiting to be unleashed upon you. But there's also the joy mingled with it. That you've made something thats always an original, even if they're based on someone or something that existed."

Meteora returned the smile. "The greatest thing of creation is the conveyance of your heart. Sharing the very emotions and memories inside that would give life to others own emotions. That is what the readers felt at that moment and in turn will carry them forward into their lives."

Sota nodded as strong winds blew across his face. "You're right Meteora. That is how our creations bond us together." He offered his hand.

A nod from her as her fingers slipped between his. The birds continued to chirp as they left the altars with peace in their minds.

"Hand over the sauce please." Kanoya asked. He caught the flying bottle aimed for his face. "Oi, I didn't say to toss it!"

Emiya snorted as Kanoya brooded. A swift flick of the wrist tossed the steak into the air and land on its other side. The stack of shrimps were mixed into the rice before spread across the sizzling hot teppan plate.

"Excellent." Meteora said as she watched his movements. He paid no mind to the stares while handling the six other meals simultaneously. Cooking is the only art that can be called his pride. Five minutes is what it took to transform raw materials into masterpieces.

"The gears returned to the beginning." Meteora said before stuffing a handful of takoyaki into her mouth.

She said a few words which were incomprehensible to Kanoya. "I have no idea what you're trying to say."

Said woman took a gulp of sake to empty her mouth. "Based on my hypothesis, the world is regaining strength to restore the laws of reality to its original form."

"The tremors in the world has begun to converge and seal. We need to return to our worlds using the appropriate spell while the aftereffects of the collision of worlds remain." Her attention was pulled away by the loud clunk of glass.

"Drinking in the middle of the day is so great." Blitz Talker hummed after downing the entire contents of his glass of beer. His daughter was having another round of juice beside him with the studying gaze of her father's beverage.

"Are you listening to what I'm saying?" Meteora pouted at the gunman.

"No."

Emiya took a sip of sake. "In a nutshell, we're on a clock before being stranded on this world." He set the glass down before looking at her. "What kind of timeline are we looking at?"

"My Magic Book's search range is shrinking day by day. I suspect a few days at most. I recommend that you wrap up your business within the next few days. Is there anything you want to do before you go back? Anything you haven't told your Creator? This would be the last opportunity."

Kanoya straightened himself from his slouch. "Hey, do we really have to go back? Meteora, what happens if we stay here?"

"I do not know the precise answer. However, I suspect that the rules that governs our abilities would disappear."

"That means no more powers or abilities." Kanoya leaned against the table. "Gigas Machina would probably become a hunk of junk then."

"I would suggest for you to return to your worlds. We have been brought to this world not by choice. Likewise, there are many business at your worlds that need you."

Kanoya nodded as the group quieted down to a sombre. "Yeah. It's probably for the best." He lied down onto the floor with a wince. "There's so many things I want to do over here. Time flies when we least expect it huh."

"It has been a long time. We have enjoyed new things in the land of the Gods. Likewise we experienced opportunities never possible in our own world."

"Yeah, meeting our God is a God given chance. How funny that is."

Blitz refilled his beer. "Regrettably, some of us will never get the chance to talk to their Gods again." Siegfried, Selesia Upitiria, Yuya Mirokuji, Alicetaria February, Sho Hakua.

"You're right."

"I don't really know them well." Hoshikawa's voice was soft and timid. "However, I think they are good people in general despite what happened."

"She's right. We all have our purpose in life and it doesn't invalidate their sacrifice." The gunman raised his glass. "A toast to the fallen. The paragons of courage." The others raised theirs in turn.

A fitting gesture for the warriors that protected the Land of the Gods.

Rui Kanoya took a deep breath as his eyes bored into the large wooden door. He rapped against the deep lacquered oak. Crickets in the house garden. The lock clacked and said door groaned open.

Masaki Nakanogane, his Creator popped his head out. Rui raised a hand for a simple wave. "Yo."

Masaki smiled. "You look all better."

Rui pulled the sleeve of his white shirt to show a healthy arm. "Yeah, magic's really convenient." He dangled a plastic bag of snacks. "Something for a visit."

"Thanks. Come on in." Stepping through the gate from a modern world into one of the past. "Let me get some tea." Masaki went towards the back for the kitchen.

Rui settled down, a lazy eye looking around while unpacking the bags of potato chips. All things considered, this kind of place was rather homey. Energia had a traditional place like this, the only one on the peak of Mount Ishihara. It would be the second time he was here. The previous had been seven months ago. After giving a moment's respite, everything felt like a joke.

Masaki returned, placing a small pot of tea alongside a few porcelain cups. "Finally glad to be home?" Rui asked.

A laugh. "You wouldn't know about it. It's been so long I nearly forgot how my bed feels."

Rui jested. "Surely it can't be that bad. It's only a short while from what I heard from Sota."

Masaki poured tea into the cups. "Yeah, so much happened during that time. Man, I was terrified when Blitz came knocking on the door. Like the Punisher man. That hand cannon of his was really loud." His face softened to stare into hot steam. "After that, Marine was hurt and we lost Yuya."

"Yeah, that's a bad way to go." Rui sighed before grabbing a cup. Drinking it didn't lift the the heavy weight in his chest. It would be a matter of time before more deaths would continue to pile on from his world.

"Let's not stick to such dreary topics. I've heard from Meteora that you all are going home soon," Masaki said.

"Yup." Rui popped open a pack of chips. "That's why I came to drop by you know, to chill out."

Masaki settled his cup on the table. "If I wasn't in the thick of it, I wouldn't have believed that you all were here in this world."

Rui shrugged. "Not my fault to begin with."

"I'm not blaming you for it. Nobody would have expected it to happen." Masaki chuckled, his eyes gazing across the shoji walls of white paper. "I remember the first day we met for real. How you ended up having lunch in this very house."

"Then Selesia and Meteora had to show up. It was fun messing around with her." Rui refused to let it pull him down.

God beamed. "Oh yeah, those moves you pulled off were quite cool you know. Getting an up close and personal view made it scary but awesome at the same time."

"I'm the coolest guy after all." Rui grinned back. "Seven months, really long while back you know." He leaned back on his hands. "It was weird coming to a new place. Someplace where you end up knowing that you're weren't real."

"Don't say it that way." Masaki reached over the table. A strong grip over his shoulder. "You're just as real like I am."

Rui pulled his God's hand away. "Man, you have to say such things. I might not want to go home after that."

"You're always welcome to stay here." Masaki's eyes were serious. "While you would have to go to school, learn some new things and find a job but I won't find fault with that. It's a hard choice to continue fighting after everything."

"Tempting but nah. Sounds too boring." Rui met eye to eye with God. "Really, I'm touched to hear that. Though that won't be me. I am a hero after all. Saving the world is my job."

Masaki laughed. "Life here is boring, most of the time anyway. That's why we created exciting things to watch and feel. To remind us that we are alive. You guys are the epitome of that."

"That's right. Nothing less than that." Rui chilled back, arms under his head. A peaceful life. "I wouldn't mind though if there's more breaks now and then. You guys overwork us heroes you know."

Laughter before Masaki strode towards the shelf by the television. He pulled out a CD case, one that carried the weight in gold.

Infinite Divine Machine of Mono Magia.

Masaki dangled the CD of his legacy. "Care to binge a few episodes?"

A smile grew on his lips. "Sure."

Blitz Talker couldn't help himself from smiling. Watching his little girl cry in joy while she reached for the bright sky. Gentle firm grip kept her afloat, pushing her up and down the swing.

No problems, no distractions, no troubles. Just the two of them in this small park. A boring place given how little amenities. Yet she didn't care.

Erina, a true bundle of joy. That optimism in her smile. He missed these moments. Taken away in a nightmare. Twist of fate that forced to perform the most damnable thing in his entire life.

Everything changed, only because God chose to grant it. Whilst she had nefarious purposes in mind for that but he couldn't give it worth a damn. The time he wanted and always lacked. Finally, finally he had them.

Sweet siren's voice pulled him out of reverie. "Papa, I'm flyingggg."

"That's right. You're flying, like a sparrow." He lifted her up towards the sky. A few squeals as he darted about the park with his own laughs. Something real for once. Blitz spun her around before pulling her close to a hug. "Erina, I love you."

"I love you too Papa." She looked up to him. "What's going to happen now?"

Blitz reached out and ruffled her blonde hair. "It will be a few days before Aunt Meteora will send us home."

Erina squealed. "Will we stay together?"

"That woman would make it happen." Nobody could predict the end result. Would they lose every memory they had of being here? Some sort of time paradox where he would see his older or future self? He'll let the eggheads figure it out. Those guys always love to make weapons that threaten to blow up the city. This'll be a nice problem to keep them sated.

"You shouldn't say it like that Papa." The little girl raised her hands in a huff. "She worked very hard to bring me to meet you here Papa." She was a cute little vixen but it was his vixen.

Blitz reached for a smoke before stopping his hand. "She took you from me once. I won't forgive her."

"I know that I went to Neverland." Sunshine wilted into a soft chick. "When I came here, I saw it, a little bit of her memories." Blitz felt her press her face against his cheek. "She was so sad. She cried a lot while writing that part."

Is that so? Blitz stood up and reached a hand for his daughter. "If that's the case Erina, then I won't be so hard on her. Maybe give her something as appreciation."

Erina grabbed on, her small hands fitting wholly into his. "Thank you Papa."

Blitz hefted her onto his back. "Now let's get us some ice cream. This holiday won't last for very long." He intend to take it to the fullest. For Erina is everything.

Daichi felt the winds breezing against his face. Smell of the humid morning and seaside salt. He asked whilst dangling his legs above the water. "Why are you here all alone? Everyone else are chilling out at the beach or out shopping."

"I'm enjoying my peace and quiet with no thanks to you." Archer in his fishing getup said with a steady grip on the rod. They were the only ones sitting by the elongated pier. He never understood how this man found this place. It took him a while to get here, being an obscure place of the bay.

"Or maybe its closer to the sad fact that you have no friends." Daichi teased.

"The loner speaks for himself." Their eyes met before a chuckle.

"It's over. The world is saved, everyone goes home. A happy ending." Daichi summarised. "Archer, what are you planning to do? Stay here or go back?"

A moment's pause. "I haven't decided."

"Weren't you planning on a nice long vacation here?"

"That's until the said vacation turned into a megalomaniac quest for world destruction." Daichi conceded to that. "Much remains to do in my own world that needs fixing."

"So says the man that decided justice wasn't worth his grain of salt. Besides wouldn't your world move only when your Creator makes a story to continue it on?"

"Shut it Kid. You're one to talk to always try to get himself killed." Archer grinned. "On the other note, what you don't see doesn't mean it didn't happen. Furthermore, you all are always driving it forward, one way or another."

Daichi crossed his legs together. "You're right about that. Siegfried said something on a similar note. However, it doesn't mean that I can't stop trying."

"That's where your inexperience lies. There are many paths to the same goal. Some can be longer, inconspicuous or tedious but they reach the same end. You just need to find the right path and stick to it. Following my way would not save you. Bless be to Rin for bearing with me for so long. Be thankful you're alive."

"Yeah. Although at least you could talk to your Creator. He does deserve to hear from you doesn't he?"

"That joker doesn't need to hear anything from me. Besides, he knows me well enough that we don't need words to talk."

Daichi whistled. "He's that good eh." To understand your characters so well that you would know what's in their minds. He hoped he could be the same.

"Enough about me Kid. You have a long path ahead. Think hard and well on what you want to do."

"I didn't have the time to think about it. Just great, graduation's coming within the year." The idea of studying for exams was deflating. He'd just help save the world for fate's sakes.

"There's still time. Get a job while you're thinking about it. Give it your best shot once you have something in mind."

"Right…" Daichi said. "Archer, thanks."

The red man said nothing as he continued watching the deep blue sea. Just like how he watched over his domain in the realm of swords.

Matsubara licked beer foam off his lips as he looked down the empty glass. Buzz of beer felt good in his mind. It helped not making him think and numb the pain. An inevitable end but the burn remains. Maybe I'd should have taken whiskey instead. I'd be drunk enough to not notice the difference.

Kikuchihara decided to organise a farewell party for the great heroes. It wasn't a fancy top star place, within the small confines of a hotel. The quiet space reserved just for them was what he preferred. Best part of the entire thing though was the unlimited alcohol. That was the most important part. Matsubara poured himself another glass as Meteora continued to wharf down plates of chicken and assortments of meat at the main table. Suruga was regaling about her near death experience to Masaki and the kids. Kanoya was playing cards with Hoshikawa and Archer at one of the smaller side tables.

Marine's was on a steady road to recovery. She did hint of being disappointed of missing the entire spectacle. 'Maybe it's better for me not to know. I'd probably have a heart attack.' So she said.

The growing stack of glass plates made testimony to Meteora's appetite which brought a chuckle out of him. It would be the last time he'd see such a thing. Yatoji, the Creator was slumped by the table, chugging down glass after glass of sake. A knowing glance between them told enough as beer continued to pour. Gai Takarada looked to be in better shapes with far less on his table.

Undue time passed before Meteora stood up to announce. "Everyone. I thank you all for working so hard to protect this world. Tomorrow we will be returning to our worlds."

"Bummer. I don't want to imagine the undue rent." Blitz downed the glass of beer.

"I'll write Ryosuke to pay it off while you're gone. Makes me wonder if time passes while you're here." Suruga finished her own beer in a single go.

The middle aged man chuckled. "Beats me but that would be quite a good joke." He stroked his daughter's hair. "I could use the money to get this girl something nice." Little Erina beamed at the thought.

Masaki chuckled as he put the dirty dishes to a side. "We'll miss Archer's cooking." Matsubara was inclined to agree. Whatever they could make in this world would lose to that prodigy. He just knew it.

Hideaki opened his arms. "Archer, I know you do not wish to return to your world. My house is open for you."

Kanoya stood to his feet. "Oi! No hogging of the precious cook!"

"Don't you go putting words in my mouth." Archer retorted. The three started to bicker as Matsubara eased back to the drinking. Wonder what she would say seeing those three.

Masaki took a seat beside him. "You alright Matsubara?"

"Yeah, yeah I'm alright Masaki. Just a bit down on the side." Matsubara blinked at the burn in his eyes and cheeks. He didn't remember how many he drank already. "Don't make me bring you along for the ride. It's time to celebrate. That's what I'm doing."

"It's alright." Masaki took a glass of his own. "I don't know exactly how it feels but I know close enough. Take it easy and start another day with new hope."

Matsubara chuckled at the thought. He shouldn't be mourning so hard right now. Their glasses clinked before he felt the sake going vibrant inside his throat. "Right."

Hideaki raised his hands as he said. "Woah. It disappeared."

"What did?" Meteora asked, a fork stuffed with chicken in hand.

Hideaki rubbed his hands. "The Magic Circuit. It's just vanished, like into nothing."

"Come here." Archer pressed a hand on the kid's back. "Yes, the Circuit's gone for good."

Hideaki sighed. "I guess that means no more magecraft for me."

"Good riddance. There're enough problems as it is like screwing your head straight."

"I had a role model for that." Matsubara tuned out the growing arguments to stare at the yellow glass of sake in his hand. A new dream and another step forward for both him and her.

Daichi stared at the ceiling from the soft comforts of his bed. Imagining cows jumping fences for the past twenty minutes hadn't burnt off the excitement in his blood.

Tomorrow was the day that everything will conclude. Friends brought upon the long winded journey. A dream of fiction coming to an end. Time for everything to return to normal.

Turbulent memories unburied itself. Meeting Archer by chance. Terrified by eyes that could kill. Tossed around like a rag doll, although Siegfried did that more by a large margin.

The painful forging of Magic Circuits. Despair by a deceitful Magane Chikujoin. Summoning a Heroic Spirit, his inauguration into a Master. Silent war across the city of Tokyo into the finale.

After this entire debacle, a quiet life felt rather, boring. Daichi raised his hand to his face. He couldn't see it through the pitch black but he had bitter hopes for it. On an off note chance for them to return.

Did he want it to be over? Nearly a year of excitement had been forced onto him but it wasn't bad. Scary, painful and exhausting. He wouldn't give this precious experience for anything else in the world.

The Imperial Gardens at Chiyoda had been set as the departure point. Police had cordoned off the entire area for the occasion. Daichi reckoned Morning Sunshine gave its brightest to cast its saviours a proper send off.

Three groups gathered at the open field. First comprised of Kikuchihara and several government officials. The second was their motley band of Creators and Creations.

The third were soldiers, a small number standing by in the sidelines. Daichi noticed the bandages and casts on some of them. He kept away for chills tingle down his spine whenever he met eyes with them.

Kikuchihara bowed towards the group of both Creations and Creators. "As representative of the Tokyo government, I thank you all for your hard work and sacrifice in saving this world."

"Aw shucks." Kanoya rubbed the back of his head.

Nakanogane, acting representative replied with his own bow. "We thank you in return for your support." He received the small gold plaque given by an official, a recognition for the group. They traded smiles of joy as the simple ceremony ended.

Kikuchihara smiled in return as the officials dispersed back to the entrance. "Meteora, how long do we have before time runs out?"

Meteora pulled out her grimoire and flipped across the pages. "Considering the amount of restorative power in the world, today is the last chance." The sage turned towards her compatriots. "I ask all of you again, have you all decided whether to stay or return to your world?"

Blitz said. "Sticking around here wouldn't be healthy for me especially with this crazy God I have." His daughter in tow, Erina tilted her head towards the talking duo.

Suruga chuckled in response. "I can't write in a deus ex machina if you get into an accident here old man." The detective chose to ignore her that prompted more jabbing by his creator. Erina burst out giggling.

Kanoya nodded. "My world needs me. It wouldn't be fair to enjoy life here. I'll miss everyone though." Nakanogane gave a thumbs up.

"I want to return to Masayuki and my family." Hoshikawa fidgeted with her fingers. "And probably have a family of my own too." That rose too many brows from all the wrong people.

"I'll pass staying around. There's still much more mess for me to clean up in my world," Archer said.

Meteora followed suit. "Very well. Please say your farewells while I prepare." She turned towards the open field before starting incantations.

Archer went towards the soldiers as Daichi glanced at the group. A team that wouldn't be formed unless by circumstance. Daichi chose to wave and smile things through. "Looks like it's time to say goodbye. Thinking about it makes me feel sad."

"Every beginning has an end kid." Matsubara said. A pause before he noticed someone missing. "Is Takarada and Yatoji not…?"

Nakanogane shook his head. "They're not coming. I bet it hurts for them to see this. To remember what happened and the pain they feel."

Matsubara sighed. "Marine would hate to miss this too. I'll be getting a ribbing for this. Anyone recording by chance?"

Kanoya's screaming on Gigas Machina's speakers caught their attention. "Oi, who left the souvenirs like that? They're everywhere!"

Daichi yelled up the leg. "Maybe you should tied them down in the first place." Gigas Machina had just been kept upright with a makeshift metal crutch for maintaining balance.

Laughs went about as Kanoya's microphone squawked with rumbling cardboard. "It's hard to drive with this in the way. Geez."

"Oh God." Nakanogane swiped his forehead. Fortune bless upon them since the Gigas Machina held steady in contrast to its chaotic master.

Yellow sparks blistered the sky, drawing their attention. "Gate of the Occult. Bell of Hebos. The footsteps of Mercurius echo and reach into the infinite sea." Meteora chanted. Sparks rooted out before solidifying into a blue portal, the size of a four storey building.

"The Gate of Return." Kikuchihara said the spell name. Daichi felt the power behind the magic. Static pressing cloth tight onto his skin. Nothing harmful but electrifying.

Meteora frowned at the portal. "The spell went smoothly. However, it won't last long. You may begin when ready."

Daichi noticed fizzles on the glowing lights as Gigas Machina rumbled to motion. "Well then, I'm off." To walk down a dozen steps wasn't easy with the handicap. The creak of metal on the crutch was foreboding. It was a wonder that thing hadn't snap.

"He's obnoxious, loud and troublesome right to the end." Nakanogane shook his head, a tear in his eye. A wave over the shoulder from the giant mecha before Gigas Machina thundered through the gate.

Nothing appeared on the other side. Meteora nodded in approval, prompting the next to come forward.

Hoshikawa stepped forward. Daichi didn't get to know her much besides the awkward moments during the random days. I guess though I can find out sooner or later. Wait, Shizuka would kill me.

"Hikayu. I-" Ohnishi screamed as he sprinted towards her. Maybe he overdid it, tripping, skidding and slamming face first against the gate. "Ow, ow, hot, hot." Ouch, that burn's got to hurt.

Hoshikawa sighed. "Ohnishi, you always act like this." She squat down and whispered into the man's ear.

Archer grew a smirk. Daichi tilt his head back before asking. "What are they whispering?"

"That's for me to know and not for you to care about." Bummer.

Ohnishi's eyes widened in stupor as she resumed walking. She turned around with a bow before stepping through the gate. That was two.

Blitz held his daughter's hand before walking forward. Ohnishi was lifted off his feet as Blitz said over his shoulder. "I'm not going to thank you."

"Not asking for it." Suruga shot back.

Erina tugged at her father's hand. "But she saved us. You're not a bad God right?"

Suruga reached over and gave the little girl a pat on the head. "I am a bad god. I might get you killed again."

Blitz huffed. "I'm sure you would do that and I can't stop you. It's destiny itself."

"My offer stands. You can stay if you like."

"I don't want to live in the same world as you."

Suruga lit a cigarette before saying. "I'll continue to risk my life and do horrible things to you guys." That drew Blitz's eye back towards her. "Give your all to overcome it."

The old detective paused before giving a humph. A gentle prod on his girl's back before they disappeared.

Archer strode forward. Several of the soldiers cheered which he gave a passing wave. Daichi watched the man walk towards the gate. Something rose in his chest. An alien feeling. That's right. Pride.

Daichi called out. "Archer, are you sure about your decision? That's hell you're going back into."

Archer kept his back towards him, boots clacking towards the fuzzing gate. "Who the hell do you think I am?"

Daichi cracked a laugh. I'm an idiot. "A hero of Justice. Always have been."

"That's right. Nothing is going to change me. Not my Creator, Hell or even my other selves. I will live and survive anything that comes."

That's right. An endless journey through time, space and universes. Undeserving duty to protect mankind. Ideals, once broken now renewed.

"I've decided, Shirou Emiya." The man stopped by the portal. "I'm going to university and create a new world. That world will have the utopia that you are looking for. Atop that hill of blades, there will be hope. That will be your legacy."

"You think far too much on that one Kid." The Counter Guardian turned with the faint of a smile. "Good luck, Daichi." Shirou Emiya stepped through the gate and was gone.

Matsubara turned towards the last person. "It's going to be lonely after this."

Sota stepped forward. "I don't know what to say but when I think about not being able to see you again..."

"We can see each other anytime Sota." She faced the group. "To put it simply, I can't go back."

Kikuchihara explained. "To tell you the truth, we did multiple rehearsals with Meteora. In order to cast the spell, the person casting the spell must be on the outside. In other words…"

Matsubara concluded. "You can't send yourself back."

Meteora nodded. "It would be trying to grab and throw myself. A contradiction and there was no alternative. The Restorative Power of the world was too strong to break this form of logic."

Sota's voice echoed as the gate's fizzling grew worse. "But Meteora…"

Meteora grew a faint smile. "It's not a problem. I've grown to love this world. Many things that I have learnt to enjoy and appreciate. In fact, I believe this is a great opportunity for me. For if I can't go back to my world, I am given a chance to try creating a world just like everyone else here. These are my thoughts about it."

"Are you serious?"

"I've seen the numerous amount of stories that exist in this world. Many unique and interesting stories that have pulled at people's hearts. I want to try writing a story like that. I want to see what my story connects and what my story paints into their thoughts and emotions. I want to keep watching happiness until the end of days. That's how I feel about it."

"Your magic is about to disappear right?"

Meteora reached for her book, the dark ink were fading away at a rapid pace. "I learnt a valuable lesson from all of you. I don't need magic to create. All you need is the passion and determination to create. Fate will decide the rest."

The last page of the Grimoire stripped clean. Gate of Return fizzled out from existence.

Daichi tried to cheer up the bunch. "It's good to have big dreams and you're going to have the best group to support you on that. They're amongst the best of the industry after all."

Matsubara raised a brow. "Now that's going too much there kiddo. Still, I'd be glad to help."

Kikuchihara nodded. "We've gathered all the documents you need to live in this world. I'll check them once more to avoid any problems later. The Countermeasure Council will be disbanded. This is our final task. I have to finish it before I resign from office."

Matsubara gawked at the woman. "Kikuchihara, you are resigning from the ministry? Surely the ministry has somewhere to use your capable hands"

"Yes. That's certainly true." She smiled. "However, I'd like to freshen up on life. Maybe another direction in career or a vacation beforehand."

Matsubara raised a hand. "I need one just the same."

"Matsubara, remember you're supposed to release the next volume in three weeks!" Nakanogane pointed out. Said Creator sighed.

Sota raised a hand towards the girl. "If that's the case, then let me welcome you once again to this world, Meteora."

Meteora reached towards it, clasping their hands together. The faint smile grew into something truly genuine. "Thank you."

"Hu, I'm worried whether this will be okay." Shizuka Katsumi shuffled around, her white sandals clacking in nervous energy.

"Everything is going to be alright." Daichi Hideaki tugged at the bow tie of his black suit before reaching out with a hand. "Hold my hand and just relax." An iron grip before he nudged the door open.

A bright ballroom, wide enough to easily fit in hundreds. People congregated in small groups across the entire length. Dressed in suits, classy shirts and dresses. A stage on one end carried the podium and the title of the event. The author's award. A buffet table by the side. He noticed seafood as Katsumi said. "Wow, this is grand."

"They weren't kidding. This is surreal." Daichi felt a bit awestruck and unclear on where to go. Fortunately he noticed a familiar group lounging by a corner at the far end, away from most of the crowd. With a gentle grip, he guided her towards the group.

"You're here." Marine gave a little wave as Matsubara, Takarada and Nakanogane smiled with their drinks in hand.

"Wow Marine, that looks great," Daichi said.

Marine twirled around to show off the blue dress and transparent shawl over her shoulders. "It's just for the occasion."

Matsubara tilt a glass towards him. "Nothing bad yourself. You two dressed up for the party." The other Creator was more lax by wearing a simple coat to their white shirts.

"I have to make an impression. Otherwise I'll never hear the end of it." Daichi winced as a finger pinched his arm. Siegfried's training was tough but this, this is a whole new level. "Thanks a lot for the invitations. Never thought of a chance to get into one of these."

"Don't mention it."

Marine leaned towards his partner of the night. "Hi, I'm Marine. Nice to meet you. Are you like Hideaki's girlfriend?"

Daichi chuckled in response before a foot stomped on his feet. "It's nothing of that sort." Shizuka waved her hands with a merry smile as he rubbed the pain away against the carpet.

Matsubara cracked a laugh. "That's a first. Marine don't overdo yourself. It's only been a few weeks."

Marine glared in return. "I have absolutely no intention of returning to the hospital. I missed everything! From my deadlines to the fighting." She dug her fingers into her cheeks as despair oozed from them. "Now I don't know how on Earth am I going to catch up."

"You could use Sota to help with some of that couldn't you? You're his Master after all." The artist whimpered at Matsubara's jest. Nakanogane and Takarada laughed at her detriment.

Daichi glanced around the group. "Where's the others?"

"Meteora's busy calming down Suruga. Apparently she get nasty jitters when not allowed to draw."

"To think she looked beautiful in that dress. First time I've ever saw her in one too." Nakanogane muttered off hand.

Music played in the background. Daichi recognised it as one of the cues. He bowed with a hand. "Without further ado, may I have your hand at a dance?"

Shizuka smiled before reaching out. "Yes. Just hope I won't step your toes."

Their hands clasped tight as he pulled her in close. "I'm sure that'll be the least of my worries."

Matsubara shook his head as the two went towards the dancing area. "Youth. How I miss it."

"Ever thought of settling down? Getting married and all?" Masaki threw the sucker punch.

Matsubara rubbed his gut from the invisible bullet. "I'm stuck with all the deadlines. I don't have the time for a relationship."

Takarada grabbed a trio of sake from the table. "That's the life we live in. However, it would be nice if we could have a nice family that would support us through the way."

Matsubara thanked him before lifting it to eye level, studying the rising bubbles. "It matters not about the result but about the journey."

"Alicetaria would have liked that."

Takarada nodded. "I intend to make her reach the end of her journey. She may struggle, she may cry but she will persevere." He tightened a fist with a smile. "I will make sure of that."

Matsubara patted the determined man in the back. "Good luck to you for that. Likewise I have to bring a good end to my own pair. I wish you the best." It's still a long way for those two but he'll make it perhaps a bit quicker than planned.

"Just as they struggle in their journey, so will we."

Nakanogane smiled. "Getting all poetic now eh. I should bring you out for drinking more often then."

"Or maybe it's the award you've just won. Purple prosey much aren't you?"

Takarada grinned. "Don't go spend all that drinking on smart jabs. You need to put them to good use for writing."

Nakanogane asked. "Speaking of writing, is he still at it?"

"Yeah, he's dedicated to the cause." Yatoji had declined the attendance, bent on rushing the deadline. Given the circumstance, Matsubara felt that there was something more in store. A fire renewed in the furnace of passion.

"He doesn't take a break even when Hell is knocking. If that's the case, we can't lose to him. Darn, I'm all fired up to get back to it."

Nakanogane raised a glass for a toast. "Let's get started on that tomorrow. It'll be a bright new day to our career." Their glasses met in a tink of crystal.

Matsubara smiled. "We will bring the dreams to them."

I once started a journey three years ago. Not something I had planned, it just happened. Fate brought us together on a long journey. A journey to protect the world we know and cherish for. Many pains suffered. Loss felt deep. Sacrifice were made. The long road had come to an end and peace returned. Some would call it a happy ever after.

Life in university was downright boring compared to the hectic chaos once before. Maybe this was what Archer felt after experiencing so much. Behind the wall of death and horror lie excitement, one acceptable only onto those that are willing to accept their eventual fate by its hand. Temptation always beckoned me to go over. Find the very same excitement in other forms.

Even so, I have persisted on my original pursuit. Mundane by far in comparison. I've grown to realise that only after given precious opportunity by both mentor and partner Siegfried. I was no hero. However I could be someone who can create heroes and inspire others.

Nevertheless, my mind wandered during quiet times. How was he doing? Was he alive? Does he even remember the very same memories?

The man had sacrificed everything to return to the world that many would call a living hell. Standing atop the quiet lone hill of blades. Fighting day after day to protect humanity. As a child, his conviction to be a hero had been forged by his father. Broken in later years, restored in a paradox of time. Now, he had the strength to strive back towards that ideal. The hero of justice.

I didn't want to let him down. Story after story had been churned out from my mind. Imaginings of past, presents, futures. Alternative paths. My time would be limited thanks to my engagement with Shizuka. It would be next year when we would be married. There was so much to prepare but my parents and the occasional help from Aki Kikuchihara had done wonders to make things smoother. Despite so, I will continue on to forge this new path.

Kazuko had been more relaxed about his stance on the government. After the school exams, he became a politician. I gave him well wishes and hope that he could bring the great change he always visioned to us.

Sota Mizushino had found peace with his demons and would be finishing the final year of high school. I hadn't learnt what he wanted to do after school but given his eye for drawing, I think I know the answer.

Meteora had released her first novel. It had been a national hit. It was an irony that the entire story, an award winning fictional novel was actually happening in the real world. Truth is no stranger than fiction.

Matsubara and the others had been excelling on their work. The time that they had with their characters have changed them so much. To meet and understand your character is truly the next level that no other author can have. That means so much motivation to them, I truly understand that. I want to be there, just like them.

It is the end of my story but it was never the end of my journey or my work. The journey to create that brand new world. The Ever Distant Utopia.

A Humble Creator,

Daichi Hideaki.

~FIN~

Author's Notes: Good day and thank you for reading Beyond Worlds.

It's done. A long journey travelled, an ending achieved. Similarities bear fruit but alas a time changed. My own journey ends here.

Thank you for reading. I hope this fandom gets more interesting crossovers. I'd like not to be the only memory here. Without further ado, Good bye.

Regards

MarksmanKNG