Here we are... After like seven months, over 170k words, I have done it. Chance Beyond Reality has officially finished! This does not include Bonus Chapters, which will be added at a later date; when I write them, lmao. I want to thank all who have followed/favorited the story, who followed/favorited me as an author, and to those that reviewed the chapters. Like seriously, there were times I wanted to just take a long break, like I did in December, but I didn't want to turn into that author who doesn't finish their stuff.

As for the story, this is over 10k words. I just went off, and this is the product. I sincerely hope you all enjoy and before we move on, I got the reviews to go over.

Guest: If I mentioned them somewhere and I forgot about it, then chalk it up to me not having an outline planned. Everything that you just read was completely off the cuff. Sure I had ideation sessions with my friends, but they didn't help in the sense of outlining. I just said, 'Hey, here is x idea. Thoughts?' Then, I went off. I have a couple of bonus chapters planned.

OnePunchPlayer: Glad to see you back, and yes I went with canonical Reach, Bungo did a great job with it. Plus, I hope you and others listened to those songs, because they filled the mood so well. However, looking back, I wished I put in Red's Never Be The Same. It had a great line. I know you looked forward to something else, but I'm not the most creative of the bunch. Still, I hope you and others enjoyed it. Minus all my cringe in it. Trust me, it's there. Anyway, until next time.

Titan12c: You are most welcome. I am glad you enjoyed it. I will miss this story when it's over. However, this'll age and I'll come back thinking, 'WTF, I wrote this?' I won't keep y'all, enjoy!

...

Back at the Tower, in Senea's room, the Hunter and Titan couple burst through her door where she was sitting on the floor, documents everywhere. The couple started speaking over each other but there were key words that Senea caught before she stopped them. Obviously, she thought they lost it. She was looking at it logically, there is no way that this could be anything.

"Woah woah woah, you two cannot just come in here and just spout a theory at me that does not have a single thread of evidence! In order for theories to be theories, they need a leg to stand on. I assure you that trans-dimensional travel isn't possible. Unless you turn yourself into a Vex." Senea raised her voice at her brother and sister-in-law. The theory had nothing to stand on.

"Come on, sis, you can't tell me you haven't thought about it? That's why we haven't been successful in locating him. They aren't in our world anymore. What else could it be? It isn't a Vex simulation, because we know that the Vex can't simulate Light. When we were there, you felt it, I know you did," Kaz pleaded with his sister. She was the smart one, of course. Verra agreed with her husband, it made sense, and he brought up valid points.

"Sen, you have to admit that his Light was there. The Traveler was there too, in a way. It might have the answer that we are looking for," Verra calmly interjected.

"Listen to yourselves, there isn't any plausible evidence that this is true. I've been scanning for him ever since we left and we haven't found any-" Senea paused as she pulled out a datapad that she then made widescreen for the other two to see. "That's really weird, and there's no way that this is right. The scans were blank just five minutes ago..."

"Well, are you going to elaborate, sis? Don't leave us-" Kaz's words died in his throat as his eyes saw what Senea saw. Sebastian's Light readings. They were there, but incredibly weak on Mercury. Kaz dashed out of the room, having Meza prep the ship with Holliday and Verra was close behind him. Senea threw on her combat robes and had Kex follow and prepare for their expedition. Senea thought that if this is true, then they will be able to bring him back home.

Normally, Hunters are gone longer than normal, but as found out before, leaving without a word is another story. That usually means they went rogue or they died. Neither is the case for Sebastian, at least not yet.

"Kex, how is this possible?" Senea asked her Ghost as they rushed through the Tower, saying 'excuse me' if she accidentally bumped into other Guardians. They all knew her by sight, as they did Kaz and Verra. Being a one of a kind fireteam kind of does that, but they don't know how much Sebastian means to them. However, seeing them run, they tried to ask around what made them do so. They only do that in emergencies. Other Guardians went to see their respective Vanguards to ask about. They only really get deployed when it is something big.

"I do not know, Senea, but if Sebastian is indeed alive, then that means there is a chance that Dove is too. For reasons obvious, they wouldn't go anywhere without one another," the circular Ghost shell said. "To answer the next query on your mind, I have tried to contact them using our long range satellites, but have been unable to establish a connection. As always, we will learn more when we arrive… Transmat in 3, 2, 1…" Senea braced herself as Kex teleported himself and his Guardian to Kaz's ship. Once all three were strapped in, and Kaz got the green light from the landing bot, he floored the thrusters, heading straight out of the Hangar on a course to Mercury.

Once they were in the air, Commander Zavala's voice came over their ship comms, "What are you three doing? You do not have the authorization to leave the Tower."

The comms were muted as Kaz gritted his teeth looked to Verra, "Please tell your idiotic Vanguard that we are going after our friend. Nothing they say or do will stop us." His hands were gripping the controls tightly.

Clearing her throat, she opened the comm, "Commander, with respect, we are going, this is personal for the three of us. No threats you say or do will affect our mission. We are going after him. It's about time he comes home."

Silence reigned for a few moments before they all heard the Commander audibly sigh, clearly against it, but knows how stubborn the three of them are "Very well, bring him home. Be Brave, Guardians."

With a major sigh of relief from all three Guardians, they continued to Mercury. Hold on, Sebastian, we're coming and we're bringing you home. Count on it.

The descent to Mercury was a close one, and fast. They set it down in their normal area. They chose to ignore Brother Vance, and they set out on their Sparrows. Between the three of them, Meza, Cahal, and Kex were mediating the comm channel. Kaz was the first one to speak, "I just want to find him, if he's injured, then he will need help."

"Kaz, you need to relax, we will get there when we get there. If you are all worried, you will not be performing at the proper level you expect to," Senea replied through the comm, and Verra added her agreement.

He sighed, "You're right, but I'm worried about him. I mean, Verra, how could I not? Ever since we brought him in, and we helped him hone his skills, he's been a son to us. Plus, you remembered what happened with Rosa. After that, we almost lost him, and I refuse to lose him." Kaz cared for Sebastian and treated him as his own son. While they never established the dynamic, it came naturally. He knows Meza acts like a mother to Dove. As does Cahal and Kex, but they are like the funny uncles you see every now and again. They passed by various Vex who paid them no heed, as long as they aren't bothered, they won't bother them.

The three Guardians continued to travel, and the coordinates of the signal were getting closer and closer. When they got to the point where they could no longer be on a Sparrow, they all dismounted and continued down the path. Vex architecture was slowly becoming more and more prevalent in the eyes of the three Guardians. Kaz noted that they were already past the point where they normally could go. The wall was gone, but neither of the females noticed it immediately. Kaz had his hand on his weapon as he walked, his cloak covering most of his form, but that action did not go unnoticed by the females.

They got their own weapons ready. Then, they felt a pulse. It wasn't a Ghost's death pulse This was an SOS pulse. The pulse drove Kaz to action, sprinting ahead without so much as a word. He knew it by heart, Meza had Dove practice that same beat for years. The pulse was quick, slow, and then two more quick SOSs in rapid succession. While it could be a Vex trick, Kaz slowed down just a little. He rounded the corner and the sight sucker-punched him.

There were hundreds of Vex around a lone figure, who was face down. All of their beady red eyes locked on to it. At that moment, Senea and Verra were right at Kaz's shoulders. "Oh my Traveler," Senea whispered.

Kaz had a plan for this and he knew that it was one of their only options, "Delta-58. Senea, get him out of here. Verra, with me. Take 'em down any way you choose. Mark?"

"Sync," both ladies replied in unison, no longer family, but a fireteam. In battle it is important to put personal feelings on the sidelines, something these three have mastered over their very long lives.

The Vex did not expect three other Lightbearers to arrive when one of them was already weak. They were going to harvest the lone one for study. It would be a fine addition to their collection. They already had one Lightbearer trapped in the Forest. Another would do well for their tests. The Vex Minds were displeased that more showed up, and they reacted accordingly.

The figure on the ground groaned and felt so sluggish. They felt so dead inside. All they wanted to do was collapse and go into a blissful slumber forever. They felt something in their hand, it seemed to be important if it was in their hand. The figure managed to open their blurry eyes and view the item in question. One look and their emotions began anew. The tears couldn't be hidden. Nothing could be done. She was gone. Never to return, they don't even know what happened after they passed out. All they remembered was doing the one action that could have possibly saved her. Their Ghost was offline, not dead, but they managed to get their SOS out there. It was just a matter of time. The person felt someone shake their shoulder. The voice was soft, "Are you with me?" The item in their hand was being pulled away. They clutched it tightly.

"N...No," their voice was hoarse.

The soft voice spoke again, "Kex, do a quick analysis. Tell me why she isn't responding."

"Unknown at this time, Guardian. All we know is that this is the real him. She may be in our dimension. I'll alert other Ghosts to look for her. Her shell is pretty unique as he was the one to make it and modify it. If they don't know where she is, then it may be safe to assume that-"

"Do not finish that sentence, Kex. I need to get him out of here," the voice said. It sounded familiar to the person.

They stiffened on contact. No way, is it… "S-Senea?" they croaked, their vision still blurry.

The person who they thought was Senea froze, their grip slacked, then tightened, "Sebastian… you don't know how long we've been looking for you."

Sebastian's eyes opened, before wincing, "Where the hell am I? When am I?"

Senea sighed, "Mercury. You're back home. You've been missing for the past nine months. We've been worried sick."

Nine months? I swear it's been longer, or at least it felt like it. Sebastian's mind only remembered… Faye… I'm sorry. The item in his hand was her dog tags. He would find a way to honor her. "Help me up, please… I need to..."

"You're injured, there is no way you can fight, plus, Kaz wants me to get you out of here while they deal with the Vex," Senea said, lifting him and draping an arm over her shoulder. Senea may be shorter, but she was strong, as he felt himself be lifted with ease.

"No!" he shouted before he swung himself upright, putting the tags away in a pouch, a pouch that had Dove, safely contained. His relief was palpable as his shoulders released some of his underlying tension. They immediately tensed up again as his eyes glowed violet and his arm extended into the ethereal Void blade. His right hand reached down to the familiar spot where he put his Sword and felt relief when it was still there. It was all real. He gripped the hilt and it ignited, prompting Senea's next string of questions. He didn't hear Senea asking as he spoke, "They will pay for what they have done to me," he seethed before dashing towards the closest Vex.

Kaz and Verra were taking out Vex left and right. Kaz had his Arc super active, shooting Vex close and far away. Verra was throwing her Hammers and killing a half dozen Vex with a single throw. Kaz almost felt bad for them, almost. The fight has been going on for a few minutes, but it cannot go on any longer. "Kaz, Verra, he's up, and he's angry." Senea's voice said in wonder.

"Who?" both Kaz and Verra asked their sister. Kaz saw it out of the corner of his vision, a figure slicing and dicing Vex by the handful, one with Void and the other with an unidentifiable object. The screams were filled with agony and despair. That much was obvious. The Vex were thinning by the second. What the hell happened to you, Seb?

Sebastian felt nothing. He felt like he was nothing. Not since he was taken away from her. He doesn't know how he got here, he doesn't know why. He should have been left there to die. It was the one thing he wanted. Yet, it was taken from him yet again. Once the Void blade on his wrist ended, a wave of Solar took over. This Golden Gun had a mix of purple and it fired those combination bullets from before, so it looks like his Supers mixed. The Vex did not expect this amount of pure power to radiate from this single Guardian.

In response, they sent in Minotaurs, which did not last long. Sebastian was angry. As soon as they appeared, they were gone in an instant. Once the Vex realized that they were not going to get any worthwhile data out of this, they backed off and the other surviving Vex disappeared. Sebastian ended up in the middle of the room, where an object was partially buried in the sand. Sebastian went to his knees as he quickly dug it out and inspected it. No. It was Faye's recently acquired Hammer. He sank down further and wept. "It's not fair," he repeatedly croaked. "Why must I suffer for this?"

"Sebastian?" a gentle voice reached him. Kaz, Senea, and Verra approached him, Verra leading before she crouched a few feet from his form.

He reacted, pulling Ironwreath and pointing it towards the source of the voice before he froze. "No… but…" he dropped Ironwreath and reached for the closest person. Verra met him in the middle and hugged him close.

"It's okay, Seb. You're home again…" Verra cooed like a mother would a child. He was obviously shaken up, and right now, he needed a change of scenery.

Sebastian's arms barely registered anything, but she looked the most similar on the outside, but even he knew that she was gone. "It's not fair," he croaked again.

"Shh, Seb… We'll get you home and we can talk, alright?" Verra whispered to him, finally relieved that her son made it home, from wherever he was. "Where is Dove?"

Sebastian didn't have the energy to respond, because he was so tired, physically, mentally, and emotionally, but he did mumble, "Front pocket."

"Do you mind, if I inspect her?" Verra inquired, knowing it is a Guardian norm to ask to handle another Guardian's Ghost. Sebastian couldn't answer, so he nodded. Senea kneeled right next to the hugging pair and she carefully reached in and retrieved the shell. Dove's optic was barely flickering.

"She's Light deprived, we need to head back to Earth, like now," Kaz could see it and Meza appeared to scan her. With a solemn nod, it confirmed Kaz's evaluation. "Verra, you carry him. Senea, we need to make sure that there are no other Vex in the immediate area. Cahal, see if you can call the ship." Kaz bent down and picked up the Hammer, surprised at how heavy it was. However, he made no complaints as he carried it. "Get a medical bay ready for him. He needs a full evaluation."

With orders being sent, Sebastian let the fight be drained out of him, "I'm sorry, Faye."

When the younger Hunter woke up, his nose detested the smell and he felt nauseous. Hospitals and field hospitals always had the smell of antibiotics and disinfectants. Sebastian rolled his eyes before opening them. Then he immediately shut them as the light thundered against his eyes. With a groan, he tried to sit up but a hand on his shoulder stopped him, "Oh no you don't."

Sebastian stiffened, "Kaz? Am I dreaming?" His eyes opened to take in the face of his mentor. The lines of exhaustion were more prevalent than last time. "This seems familiar, doesn't it?" Referencing the last time he was in the hospital for major reasons.

A scoff, "You wish… You have so much explaining to do. You are lucky that Senea isn't in here, or she would pepper you with questions. Believe me, I want to as well, but I know you need time to adjust."

"I know. How long was I out?" he asked his mentor/father figure.

"A few days, but your other injuries are still healing. We had to take Dove to a Ghost expert, someone who has the innate knowledge to fix them. She's an odd character, but she managed to fix her. She's to your right," Kaz explained and Sebastian looked to see her core, out of her shell. Right next to those were the dog tags… Faye. A spike of pain went at Sebastian's heart. "You kept mumbling her name. Who was she?"

Not wanting to lie, "The second woman I fell in love with. However, she was from a different universe."

Kaz coughed and put down his drink, looking at him with wide eyes, "Come again?"

"You heard me, the second woman I fell in love with.. Oh, I can't wait to tell you this story." A sad scoff came next, "Probably won't matter, you'll never believe me anyway," Sebastian said with tears in his eyes. Kaz inspected his son, with the way he said his words with such conviction and dejection, there was a major possibility that he was telling the truth. Even if he was lying, Sebastian has a tell. One that Kaz won't reveal to him, much to his dismay.

"Do you mind if I tell them you're awake?" Kaz asked. What happened?

Meza appeared from around the corner, "Glad to see you are up, Sebastian," her optic drifted over to Dove. "I see my daughter hasn't woken up yet."

"She will, I have faith," Sebastian said. "Are you going to get the rest of the family?" he joked, trying to lighten the mood.

"Don't do that, Seb," Kaz chided. "I know why you do that, but I need you to be serious."

Sebastian sighed, "Habit, you know as well as I do that those are heard to break… I'm sleepy," he mumbled a minute later.

"Guess our conversation will have to wait. Get well, Seb," Kaz said before squeezing his shoulder and leaving the room.

A day later, all four of them were in Sebastian's hospital room, with Ghosts included. Sebastian began his story and he told them everything, and every detail he could remember, omitting the more intimate moments with Faye. He still wondered where his armor was, probably in Aunty Sen's care. When Sebastian asked what time it was, it was almost midnight, and the painkillers were beginning to take effect. While telling the story, he could see their doubt in his story, but he swears the truth. He wouldn't lie about it. Then again, when he gets out of the hospital he won't be talking much to anyone. He wanted to talk to two people. Dove and Faye. The two things that he longed for. Only one of them existed now.

When everyone left the room, Sebastian let himself go to sleep, yet he remained aware of his surroundings. The painkillers dulled his pain, obviously, and some of his senses. Yet, his senses are sharper than most. He slept peacefully until he heard voices. "Are you sure that this is the correct room?"

"Of course, Guardian. He's been here for a few days," the voice, which sounded like a Ghost. Who was coming? His heart rate went up, but then calmed himself, less his heart rate monitor give him away. The room was silent, their footsteps were silent. A Hunter?

"Why does he have to be the one to suffer? It should have been me, and you know it." With Sebastian's drug-addled mind, he couldn't recognize the voice. Since it was also pitch black in the room since the monitors would only show if authorized personnel were to view it, or immediate family. Since Guardians don't usually have immediate family, they normally are their fireteam.

"Well, you were with him for a time, so you know how it was Guardian. He saw a lot and fought a lot. There are many things that could be happening to him psychologically," the Ghost said factually.

"I was, but I barely remember most of it. There's no way I'll be able to remember absolutely everything, but I just feel safe around him. Something tells me I always did."

Sebastian didn't hear the rest of the conversation as his drugs kicked into overdrive and he started to drift off. Throughout the conversation, he was content, and the voice helped him go to sleep easier, a soft smile on his face.

The next day, he was released from the hospital and he required his armor. He had to make sure it was still there. Thankfully, Senea was the one who got the armor, because the Sword was one memento that he fully intended to keep and use. Once he reacquired his armor, he was debriefed by Cayde, who was glad to see him, but Sebastian couldn't hide how he actually was. Cayde knew the kid his entire 5th and 6th reset, so he could tell if something was wrong. The Sebastian he knew was usually a lot more upbeat. This wasn't him, something to note into his file. However, Cayde knew he wouldn't be able to process anything trapper, so he let him go.

When he left the room, he asked the lovely Vanguard across from him to keep an eye on him from one of her Hidden. While the Exo Vanguard was glad that he was back. Whatever happened to him changed him.

Once he left the Vanguard Hall there was stlll something on his mind: Who visited him last night? He didn't bring it up to anyone, but he spent the day back in his apartment. He fiddled with Dove's shell, but it looks broken beyond repair. Then again, it was broken in several places. Strange how he doesn't remember that. The good thing is, he had other shells made as a backup. So, Sebastian went to his closet and opened it up, to notice one of them missing. Was someone in here? Sebastian grabbed the knife he keeps above the door frame inside the closet and he slowly went around his humble abode looking for any inconsistencies.

When he found none, he put the knife back into its spot and went to go finish putting Dove back into a shell. He knew that Ghosts don't like to be seen without a shell, it was 'embarrassing beyond belief'. When he was finished connecting the last piece, Dove's optic burst to life. "Woah, what happened? Why do I feel so woozy?"

"Dove, good to see you up and about, finally," Sebastian said, drawing the Ghost's attention. Attention he was happy to receive. It's been a draining few days.

When she noticed her surroundings, her very familiar surroundings, she squealed, "We're back home?!" Dove was more concerned with her Guardian's well-being

The Hunter let out a sad smile, before pulling the dog tags out from his pocket, "Yeah, we are." His voice was straining to be kept level.

Dove's mood immediately plummeted and she comforted her Guardian the best way she knew how cuddling in his neck. "Do you remember what happened?"

"Pff, I barely remember five days ago. I remember waking up in a Vex infested room with Kaz, Senea, and Verra. Senea has been analyzing my story, which they probably think I am insane. Might get a nice comfy straight jacket," he said, tears beginning to leak out of his eyes.

"Do you want to go see them?" Dove asked gently, knowing her Guardian was fragile at the current moment.

Sebastian sniffed before wiping away his tears and pocketing the dog tags, "Sure, do you still have your memories?" If anything, he still had those. No one may believe him, but to him, there were real. Everything he felt was real.

"Checking…" Dove paused, a gleeful expression on her optic, "I do, all video dating from... Well, a lotta years ago. It seems my internal clock was adjusted for that period of time."

"So, we departed when?" Sebastian asked, standing up, and dressing to go for a casual stroll.

"September 15th is when we were off the map, and my first recorded date there was July 25th in the year 2552," Dove confirmed. This brightened Sebastian immensely.

"We need to go see them now. Contact Meza, Kex, and Cahal. They all need to hear this. The good thing is, Meza did miss you. She was concerned for you," Sebastian said going to the door, and Dove followed over his shoulder. When he opened the door, the three people he wanted to see were standing there. "Scratch that."

"Good, we were about to see you," Kaz said, looking to Dove. "Glad to see you've awake and recovered."

Dove huffed, digging her claws into them, "You think my Guardian is crazy, don't you?"

Senea whistled, looking to Sebastian, "Wow. That fast, huh?"

He shrugged, "Well, from when I was telling you, you all had a doubt in your eyes. Kaz, I actually figured you out first," Sebastian said, inviting them in, and walking away from the door. Kaz was not surprised, but impressed. "Then, Verra, and then Senea. Your Ghosts, I dunno. I do, however, have proof. Dove, the video files please."

"Sure thing, Guardian," Dove chirped before she showed her video logs and dates, making sure to enlarge those dates. There are a multitude of dates dating 2552, a year that has already passed here in this world. "Would you like me to play one?"

"One that doesn't embarrass me," Sebastian said, sitting down, prompting them to do the same. Dove picked a video of when they first met, when he first declared he was helping them. Then, it went back to Sword base, skipping the interrogation, and then just some random moments that happened.

Then, Dove picked a video when she was in Faye's care. There were some words, but it was a video of Dove being held by Faye. She looked over to her Guardian to see him stiffen. This was when they fell off the building. This was something he never saw, didn't bother asking, so this was new to him.

"What does his 'Light' feel like?" Faye's voice said, which Sebastian was sure that she was really curious about what his Light could do. Her helmet was off, so Dove was getting a good angle of her face.

"She's cute," Senea mumbled offhandedly, to which Sebastian sent her a glare. That didn't go unnoticed by Verra or Kaz.

Dove's explanation was next in the message, "Depends on the element. His Sol Attunement feels like a small Sun or just a large campfire, except it covers every angle, no spots left cold. His Arc Attunement is a constant rush of adrenaline, always hopped up, always fidgeting, eager for the next fight. As for Void Attunements, he doesn't possess it, as of yet. He knows what it can do but it comes at great risk, not just to himself, but to others around him. He's said it before, I believe; that one can lose their minds if it overpowers them. The Void is a delicate balance, a very thin line, for Hunters that is. Warlocks and Titans have it easy compared to the latter. They have a natural attunement whilst Hunters have to forge their attunement. We call them 'Nightstalkers', and not many even exist, so much so, that they've almost become extinct."

"You know you possess it now, right?" Verra drawled out.

Sebastian flared the Light until it took over his eyes and his robotic arm lit up, giving it an ethereal glow, "Gee, what was your first clue?" he retorted jokingly. "This was before I got it when I was… incapacitated."

"You let her go with an unknown entity," Kaz said, reminding him of the rules.

"Rules didn't exactly exist in that universe, and I trusted her more than the others. Hmm, I wonder what ONI will do when they figure out I'm not there," he mused.

"ONI?" Senea inquired.

"Office of Naval Intelligence. The Spooks, boogymen, Babba Yagga, whatever tickles your fancy," Sebastian shrugged. "I had an agent interested in me because I never exactly changed out of my armor. Plus, from what I learned about the Spartan program, the armor was made for the person wearing it."

"Alright, there any other files of interest?" Kaz asked, seeing the validity in his son's prior claims.

"Just one," Dove replied meekly.

Dove knew what it was going to do, but she had to prove to them that he was happier there, even in a difficult time. It was one of the last ones Dove recorded. "No, but could you repeat what you said when we first arrived in this area?" Sebastian's eyes widened right there.

"Dove! You didn't tell me that you recorded that!" Sebastian shouted as his cheeks became flushed. Underneath the embarrassment, he felt guilt. Something that no one else but Dove picked up on, making her feel guilt as well.

"Oh, did you get some?" Kaz teased the younger Hunter. "Wouldn't be surprised, she is pretty and is totally your type."

Sebastian's voice played back with his stammer, "Uhm… I, uh… well, you see… uhm…"

"Nice play, slick," Verra joked, smiling at Sebastian. Senea just winked at him.

The next events were them taking their helmets off as Faye teased him with a smile, "So are you going to say it?" The next thing that played was their passionate kiss, to which Sebastian wanted to dig a hole and die in embarrassment. A few wolf whistles were thrown around, but mostly it was teasing from Kaz.

"Least you're passionate in the simple things," Senea noted.

"Care to share with the rest of the class? Sounds like you have experience in that field," Sebastian teased the Awoken Warlock.

"No comment," her skin glowed in her sheepish expression.

"I love you, Faye Lockhart," said Sebastian's voice. Hearing himself say it, made his heart flutter even though this is a past version of him. Yet, a pang of hurt lingered.

"I love you too, Sebastian Rutherford," was Faye's response. To which he sighed in despair, that would be the first and last he would ever hear those words again.

"Well, we know you weren't lying. Better throw out those plans, Senea," Verra said, throwing her under the bus.

"You had plans? For what?" Sebastian inquired before shaking his head and saying, "Nope, never mind, I don't wanna know." Then, he said, "Wait, where is the Hammer?"

"That's in my lab, people got a glance at it and wanted to know what it is. We told them it was classified, and those that ask questions or attempt to sneak a peek at it will suffer an this is no idle threat. It's-" Kaz was cut off by the student.

"-a promise. I know Hunters don't make idle threats, Kaz," Sebastian finished. Kaz chuckled in response. Verra and Senea smiled. "Would I be allowed to see it? I mean, I was the one who brought it back."

"Fine, but do not touch it." Senea acquiesced before pouting.

"I'll touch it if I want to, Sen. It's one piece I still have of her," his mood plummeted after that. The room took a noticeable downturn.

"Well, Seb, I am getting you some Ramen, on me," Kaz offered. While food sounded good right now. He just couldn't bring himself to do so.

"Raincheck on that? I need to you know, get dressed if I decide to go anywhere. That, and I need time to adjust," Sebastian joked. Hopefully, the look in his eyes was hidden. Verra and Senea accepted it without complaint. Kaz was hesitant, but eventually left, but not before Meza nuzzled Dove and gave her a once over. Cahal and Kex did the same, but not to the extent of Meza's examination. They did miss her.

"Dove, sweetie, be sure to tell me all about your adventures. I'm interested in hearing more about this world," Meza cooed.

Dove sighed before chirping, "Yes, Ma, I promise, now shoo."

Meza feigned hurt, "The nerve!" She dropped the act, "Seriously, take care. See you around."

"Bye," she responded. She immediately turned towards her Guardian whose mood was getting worse. His whole aura screamed 'help'.

When they left, Sebastian pulled out Faye's dog tags, and he wondered how he got them. He did grab her hand before he passed out, but she never had them out. Whatever the reason was, he was glad to have it. The tears came back and through the pain, he smiled. He just wanted to hear her voice. Turning the tags over, he noticed the Noble Team Symbol. That gave him an idea, which brightened his eyes, "Dove, get the armor, I have an idea."

Over the course of the next few months, Sebastian took his armor and detailed it to look like a Spartan, but to a lesser extent. The Noble Team symbol was embroidered on it. He kept the Sword at his side, using it when he needed to. His cloak was still the same, but there was a piece of the fabric with the Noble Team symbol that he sewed into it. It has been six months since he arrived back into his world. Compared to Faye's world, his was peaceful, in the manner of not waking up in the middle of a warzone. Still, that didn't help his nightmares every night.

Every night since then has been a nightmare. They range from simple of him getting tortured, watching Noble Team be killed, to the worst of all: Watching Faye be killed over and over. Each time he was out of reach, and he had to watch while they laughed at him.

Now, he barely sleeps, barely eats and Dove is extremely worried. Sebastian used to be sociable, and now he is a recluse. People don't approach him as much, and if they do, they better have a good reason. He takes the extreme patrols on Earth that take multiple Guardians to even put a dent in it. Sebastian walks in and out without a problem. Sometimes, he walks to his patrols, where applicable, but does take his ship, which he asked Amanda, who was shocked to see him, to take out the jump drive until further notice. He just needed to get back into it and restricting himself was a great first step. With his new armor, he looks like a different person. He acts like a different person, and that worries Dove. He may be getting Dissociative Identity Disorder, something to channel his pain into.

The time has changed him. The time he would normally go the Crucible, he doesn't. The one time he went into the Crucible, let's just say, Shaxx couldn't be more proud, and Sebastian couldn't be more feared. No one knows it is him, he uses an entirely different loadout. It shows, but there are some good days where he realizes what he is becoming and tries to fix it. For now, that persona has taken a backseat. It comes out less often, but it was still worrying. Even more so when his mentors asked and checked up on him. Little did Sebastian know, they already knew and were ready to intervene if necessary.

Sebastian continued to be in his alter ego. This was where he put Faye's stuff, on his person, at least the tags. Speaking of them, he pulled out the dog tags from a special slot in his armor and gently ran his fingers over it. To see her name, her designation, her rank, even her blood type, it makes the ache in his heart throb. The only semblance of pain he's felt since, at least like this. While mostly everyone doesn't know who it is, they leave him alone, not wanting to suffer his wrath.

Dove does her best to cheer him up, sometimes it is more effective than others, but she is trying. She wants to get him help, but he refuses. He says it is his 'penance'. Penance shemance. That doesn't mean Dove has given up, she's been looking for any traces of Faye in the Tower. Every new Ghost that she sees, she looks at their ID and sees if their Guardian is named something close. Dove shields her own ID, just to disengage the curious. Even in her persona, she gets a new shell. While she shouldn't be suckered into it, she wants her Guardian to feel better. So far, there has been no luck on either front, for Faye or her Guardian in recent days. If she was here, then it is possible that she doesn't remember much. That's the thing for all Guardians, you get resurrected as a Guardian, and lose most, if not, all of your memories. That would kill Sebastian if the person he loved was there, but not the same.

Even still, Sebastian has felt a presence over these past few months, watching him. More so in this persona. The armor stood out, so it wasn't be expected that he gets countless curious looks, but one always stuck with him. He ignored it for the most part. He acted like it was an everyday occurrence, which in some cases, it was. Still, his eyes tried to find who it was, but nothing caught his eye until a flash of movement on the top railing caught his attention. The figure was looking right at him, and he swore he saw a familiar visor looking right at him. Sebastian sprung into action. The figure noticed this as well and bolted.

Sebastian jumped right up to them and tried to grab the cloak that was covering the person's form and noticed their footsteps were silent. The visitor from the hospital? His speed slowed as he rationalized the thought. The person was across the Courtyard, both of them becoming a spectacle to those present. That was until the figure transmatted away. He felt crestfallen before steeling himself and walking away. He would have to figure this out at a later date.

When they watched the person that has been dubbed, 'Reaper' walk away did the figure remove the hood. "Is this what you wanted?" the voice was feminine

"It got his attention, didn't it?" the figure next to the female said, a male voice.

The female scoffed, "Do you know how much it kills me to be away from him? They've been coming back in my sleep, just begging to go to him." The female paused, "What about you? How's he going to take you lying to him?"

The male chuckled, "It's not lying if he doesn't ask. Far as I know, he's never asked about you. On a less serious note, are you ever going to change out of the armor?"

"Not until we both come clean. You know it's him, but you won't confront him?" the Female asked.

The male sighed, as if they've had this conversation before, "You and I both know that pressing him on the issue will only make him repress it even more?"

"What does your 'Fireteam'' think about this?" she asked.

The make chuckled lightly, "They convinced me to reach out to you in the first place. I mean, I don't know how he didn't see you in the first few days, especially since you visited him in the hospital." The female balled her fists. She thought no one noticed. "I knew because I keep an eye on him at all times. I know who the 'Reaper' is. You do too, I'm sure your Ghost scanned the object in his hands."

"Of course I know what those were. I'd know what they are because I was the one who wore them."

A few weeks later, Sebastian went out for a few bowls of Ramen alone. He didn't have time to entertain anyone else. Old friends came to greet him, old flames tried to seduce him, but he was so tired. Tired of waiting. If anything, this was minor compared to almost a decade ago. Still, it didn't stop him from eating three bowls of the spiciest Ramen in thirty minutes. Then, he got up, left a generous tip in Glimmer, and just sat there, staring at the Traveler, wondering why it pulled him. He was clearly better off where he was, with her. Wow, am I getting over it? The times he usually thinks about her, he just shifts back into a shadow of his former self.

After he was done here, he was going back to his place to sleep it off. Tomorrow was another patrol, but this one was easy. He just had to clear out a Fallen cave, check for supplies, and head home. He was going as himself, not this 'Reaper'. Ironically, the Reaper wasn't doing much reaping lately. It was better as a dark spot in his speckled past.

He stood up and was about to leave when a Guardian came up, a newbie. He was a Warlock, all nervous, "Are you Sebastian Rutherford?"

"I am," he noticed the note in his hand, "That for me?" The young Warlock nodded and hand him the note before scurrying off to the library, probably. Sebastian smiled at the thought.

Dove spoke, and she has been silent for a few days. Both of them know they are in a tough spot. Their relationship has strained a little since his reaping days, but Sebastian has been trying to make amends. "You know, you scared him, right?"

A scoff, "How? I'm sitting here eating Ramen, how is that scary?"

The Ghost tsked, "Maybe if you didn't have the Sword hilt visible, then maybe you would be approachable."

"I've started to make rules for myself, like this one; Rule number 9, never go anywhere without a knife," Sebastian supplied.

"What happened to rules 1-8? Why does it have to be that knife? Because it looks intimidating?" Dove teased.

Sebastian sensed the familiar dynamic and smiled, reaching his eyes, something Dove took note of and was swelled with pride. "Rules 1-8 exist, but they aren't defined. I like the feel of this one, sentimental reasons. I've been using this one for almost a year or more, it doesn't feel that long ago, doesn't it?"

Dove sighed, "No, it doesn't. Now, open the note. I could have already read it, but I want my reaction to be genuine."

"Fine, fine," Sebastian acquiesced. He opened the note and while his smile stayed in place, it faltered.

"What is it?" Dove asked, noticing the change.

"We'll be busy tomorrow night," Sebastian said, showing Dove the note.

Reaper, meet at Twilight Gap, tomorrow night at 1900. Do NOT be late. Or you might just find yourself being exposed.

"Blackmail, really? They resorted to this and what are we going to- why aren't you concerned?" Dove asked, flustered at her Guardian's nonchalance.

Sebastian looked at his Ghost with a serious expression, "I knew I was going to slip up eventually, everyone does. I already have a plan in place in case it ever gets out. I knew that if I outed, I would be revered poorly. I planned to leave for years if that is what it took. We'll see how it goes tomorrow."

"I trust you, you know that right?" Dove asked with a small voice.

"I know you do, even when I gave you reasons why you shouldn't and I can't thank you enough for that," Sebastian stroked her shell, in a silent thanks. "I'll spend years making it up to you."

…

After that, the night came and Sebastian went, of course, he was packing all of his necessary weapons. Just in case something goes wrong. He walked there because it would give him time to form plans. As always, Sebastian does what he has to do, climb a cliff face to reach his destination. He prefers the workout, and to make sure he's in tip-top shape.

When he reached the top, he sat right on the Alpha cliffside, staring right at the Traveler, which was still whole. He did feel someone watching him and it was familiar. "You're not who I expected, but I can't say I'm surprised."

The voice came back, "Did you expect someone else?"

Sebastian huffed, "Nope. Can't say I'm surprised though; you would be the first one to notice that something was off about me. You've always had me dialed in."

The person came and sat right next to him, "When were you going to tell me?"

"..."

"You weren't going to, then." The man sighed, "I wasn't the only one worried about you."

Sebastian sighed, "It took me three years or so before I accepted that she was gone for good. No matter how much I kept denying it, she was gone for good. This time, it's taken less, and may it was because of the circumstances of what transpired. I just… I don't know, Kaz."

Kaz stood up and then held out a hand to him, "Come on, we need to talk 'Reaper'."

Grabbing his hand and standing up, "I didn't come up with it."

"You're right, the people did after that Crucible match. Really? A seventy-four kill streak?" Kaz raised his voice.

"Listen, I was in a dark place at that time, and I'd much rather not revisit it. I gave it a rest and I only wear it when I want to be left alone. I'm not proud of it," Sebastian huffed.

Kaz chuckled, "I mean it was impressive and well, that was one of my concerns. However, that was not why I brought you here."

The younger Hunter regarded his superior, "Then why did you?" His hand went to his Sword. He was prepared to fight if it came down to it.

"It's not why I brought you. It's who wanted you here?" Kaz said cryptically.

Sebastian frowned, not already liking it. That was a very shortlist. Ever since he went missing almost a year ago. Not many talk to him now. They seemed to have understood, or at least there was something he didn't know. "Am I going to regret asking who?"

"No, but you may or may not hate me for this. I did have to keep it a secret at her request. Otherwise, I would have told you," Kaz admitted.

Sebastian's eyes narrowed, "What are you keeping from me?" The background was no longer important.

"To be fair, she was desperate for help and she only mentioned you, but given your state at the time, I decided that it wasn't the best idea to expose you to her. Do you still carry them around?" Kaz skirted around the question, which was infuriating.

"I do carry them around, yes. Now, answer my question, who?" Sebastian bit.

"I mean, instead of getting pissy at me, you could just give them back to the owner," Kaz said, avoiding the question, yet answering it at the same time.

The dots were slowly connecting as the color drained from Sebastian's face, "You better be fucking joking or I swear…"

"He's not lying, Sebastian." A third voice said, causing Sebastian whip around and his eyes bulged.

"No no no no no… This is impossible. This is a joke. There is no way you're here unless…" Sebastian was mumbling incoherent phrases and words.

"I think I broke him, Kaz," the newcomer said.

He sighed, "I think you did too."

Dove was scanning the individual, then popped into existence, "How do I know you're real?"

"Because I'm real too!" a fourth voice said. Sebastian snapped to attention, his mind reeling from the recent overflow of information. Then, the voice appeared. It was a Ghost. The third person's Ghost. It was Faye's Ghost. Its shell was normal, so must be really recent.

"Wait…" Sebastian recovered, "were you the Spark the Traveler gave me?!"

"Yup yup!" they cheered, "Name's Eve. You obviously know my Guardian."

"Is this what you couldn't tell me, Sebastian?" Dove said, slightly hurt.

Sebastian groaned, "I tried to tell you, but remember I somehow wasn't allowed to?" He looked right at the third person, then glared right at his mentor. "I should be pissed off, and I should do what I did to the Covenant after…" he trailed off.

"Please don't remind me, Sebastian," the female said, causing Sebastian to flinch.

"So you remember that?" he winced as he waited for the answer.

The female sighed, "First thing I did remember. However, Eve can tell you more than I could."

Sebastian approached the figure, "Faye…" he mumbled.

"It's me. For real. I'm sorry I put you through this, but I didn't know if you would actually believe me." She spoke to Kaz, "Thank you for helping me."

"As long as he remains happy, I'm ok. Sebastian, treat her right. No funny business and your curfew is at eleven," he teased.

"Where do you want the bullet?" Sebastian asked, tone changing, aiming his gun.

Kaz laughed, "Only you would show up armed, I'll see you back at the Tower. Try not to be here in a few hours. Shaxx has got a match scheduled for tomorrow. Best not be here when it starts, otherwise, you'll be joining in."

When he left, neither one spoke, but on instinct, they hugged, "Is it really you?"

"Yes, it is," she whispered.

Sebastian didn't want to let go, "What happened? Last I remember is shoving the Spark, Eve I guess, into your chest and passing out."

"This is where I come in," Eve interjected. "Do you mind?"

"Not at all, I'm listening," both of the embracing people said in unison.

I didn't know when I came into existence, but I always knew that I had to find my Guardian. I was chosen for a different purpose. I didn't know what it was for, but I also knew that I had to be with you first, Sebastian. The Traveler had me created from the simple shard you found on the planet Reach. There were a lot of things I didn't understand. The first was that I had to be with a Guardian that already had a Ghost. The second was that I couldn't be with my Guardian until you let me. Which was really infuriating if you ask me.

All that time you spent around her, I got to know her. I got to see just how much she loves you. I got to see what her world was like. I got an experience that few Ghosts get to have: Knowing their Guardian before their resurrection. I was hoping that you would reveal me sooner, but when she got knocked out that one time, you know what I am referencing to, and that beam shot out of you and into her neck? Well, that was me, getting my connection established to her and right then and there, I knew for certain she was my Guardian. You obviously didn't know about my true purpose, but I had to at least have some semblance of connection to her soul.

When I watched her die, I was overflooded with emotion and that must have been from you. I helped flood your rampage, I was in a disarray of emotions and my outlet fueled your rage. When it ended, it seemed you remembered where I was. You pulling me out of your chest should have killed you, and well… it did. You died, fully, permanently, and if had it not been for the Traveler, you would have stayed dead.

Hold that look of shock and hold all questions until the end.

Back to my original point, when you pushed me inside my Guardian's chest, I did what I could to heal her. I closed the wound on her neck. Then she woke a few moments later, however, we were on Earth. The other side of the globe on Earth. She was confused at first, wondering where she was, who she was, and who you were. For all intents and purposes, you died right there, holding her hand, not wanting to be let go. She asked me who she was and with explicit permission from the Traveler, I explained to her who she was. I know it is against all Guardian regulations, but I saw you two together. You never felt more fulfilled than when you admitted your love for each other. I didn't want that to be torn away. You both deserve so much happiness and I wanted to make sure you both got that.

Before we knew it, a Light engulfed the entire area and then we were dumped here on Earth, in your world. Without any explanation. Well, I had an idea, but she didn't. So, she wandered aimlessly, and I told her to avoid most civilizations, because of her armor. She didn't want to get rid of it, and I don't blame her. It is unique. Much like your new modified armor, Sebastian. It was sentimental. You didn't want to be rid of a pleasant memory.

As for where we were, we ended up somewhere in the old United States, like Maine? I don't remember seeing a town name. She and I wandered for a few weeks until we were picked up by a routine sweep of the area. It just so happened to be… what was her name… Verra? Yeah, that's her. Anyway, she brought Faye in and asked what she was wearing, who she was, to what she can remember. When she mentioned you, her tone changed to playful to serious. It was scary. At that point, I had to explain that you were there and some of what happened.

As for Faye's questions when she was revived, in the armor she has on now, she asked why you were still warm. I regretfully informed her that you had died, so that I may be here. I answered her questions, gave her the spiel about her being my Guardian and me, her Ghost. She asked if there was any information on her, so she could see what kind of a person she was. Her memories kicked in when she was shown her file, the one Dove managed to get her fins on. Good on you, by the way, it was what truly started her recovery. Her memories came back, her muscle memory never left.

While we were out there, she learned all about the Fallen, and Eilkinsi, thanks to a little child named Sullivan. He was a Guardian as well, been alive for centuries. He knew how to speak the language fluently. Then, we learned about the Cabal, Hive, Vex, and Taken. We didn't touch too much on that, but it was for a basic understanding.

When we found her Light, it was like something clicked. She was doing a random patrol, finding some lost books for a local Warlock. When, she just exploded into a rage, forming a Hammer. Which made me so proud, like you don't even know. She was a natural Sunbreaker. Her Light flared and it picked up the attention of three individuals, one we already knew.

Don't hold back the shock, you two. They knew. This was before they found your SOS. Obviously, they were concerned who she was, but once I made an appearance, and confirmed that this was no mistake, the nerve of them, they brought us back to the Tower. She didn't remember her name when they asked. It was something she never really thought about. Of course, with me showing her her file, she chose Faye. The last name though, she left alone, for reasons beyond me.

When they found your SOS, she wanted to show up, but they didn't let her. For a time, it was best if she sat back and let them handle it. When they brought you back, they didn't expect you to be so heartbroken. It got worse once you got out. The night we visited you, she wanted to reveal herself. When you nodded off, yes I could tell you were awake, I told her that it was not a good idea. You might have taken her for a trick or delusion of some kind. That would hurt you both in the long run. I have to say, I am a sucker for Romance, especially yours.

Anyway, we had to hide. We watched you spiral from a distance, you may put on a front for others, especially them, but they knew, and they felt guilty for it, but in their actions, they forgot about her. They were merely worried about your story. From my accounts, and Dove's, we managed to prove that Faye was indeed from a different world, but now she belongs here. It was lucky she remembers herself and you. The reason why is because of an emotional attachment she formed with you. It ran deeper than anything. The heart doesn't forget who it wanted.

Your Reaper escapades were something else though. I didn't know how such a sweet and carefree person can be that dark, but I am glad that you were able to mostly kick the habit.

It took some convincing, but she eventually went up to you, and well, more memories came in from the symbol you adorned on Reaper and then the dog tags. Which, you mind giving those to her?

Sebastian and Faye released from their hug, before she pulled off her helmet. Her face was as beautiful as he remembered. Not that he could forget it. "Should we head back to the Tower, that way we can talk more?"

"Talk? Or are you planning something?" Faye teased.

Against all things, Sebastian blushed, "I'm not one to normally rush into things, but I would like to do all the things I wanted to do before. Like a date?"

Faye laughed, and Sebastian's eyes lit up at hearing the wonderful sound. It was truly the first time he really heard it. "I would very much like that. I have one request though," she said.

"Should I be worried?" asked Sebastian. Faye shook her head. "What is it?"

Faye smirked, "I want you to wear your Reaper armor and then I'm going to walk with you into the Tower. Basically, be the one to 'tame' the Reaper."

"Out of all things, that is what you want? To tame me?" Sebastian asked incredulously.

"Yeah, because I know you based it off my armor," Faye gestured to her form. "I still have that technology about those barriers."

"Good. When we get done 'parading' though, I want you to watch those files with me. I think it would do a lot of good for you. Plus, you may get more memories back, that is only if you want to," Sebastian said, somewhat awkwardly.

Faye smiled, before pecking his cheek, "I'd like that, now, let's go to the Tower, Reaper."

"I swear, I want to put it behind me, but I'll do it for you. Dove, can we go back to the Tower?"

Dove decided to tease, "What happened to walking?"

"Just get the ship, please," he drawled.

The sun was beginning to come up over the Horizon and they both just waited for the ship to come in. They both sat at the edge and just relished in each other's presence. Sebastian's heart was being mended, just being here. He should probably thank the Traveler for basically breaking the space-time continuum for him. He hasn't been this happy for a long time. There was a time that he wished he died, but now, he wants nothing more than to live.

"Hey, Faye?"

"Hmm?" she asked, looking away from the beautiful skyline and the Traveler.

"Why didn't you take a last name? I'm sure you wanted to have your name back," his tone expressed confusion.

"Well, from the file, I thought about it, but that wasn't me, you know? That Faye Lockhart died on Reach, which shouldn't be as weird to say as it is, but I think this is time for me to move on."

Sebastian was genuinely curious, "What did you have in mind?"

Faye flushed bright red, matching the sky, "I… I was hoping that I could use yours…" When Sebastian didn't respond, she sputtered, "Un-unless you don't w-want me to, I-" she was cut off as his lips covered hers. Faye was surprised but eased into the contact, instinctually.

Dove and Eve were off to the side watching. Eve spoke, "Well, safe to say that he accepts?"

"Most definitely, I am still mad he couldn't tell me about you," Dove huffed, rotating her shell.

"Yeah… sorry about that, but I asked the Traveler for it to be that way," Eve apologized.

"We should probably break them up, so that way they don't have sex on the floor, right before a Crucible match," Eve suggested.

"I concur, but don't ever phrase it like that again," Dove's optic turned pink.

Eve saw this and teased, "Aww, is the bird a little flustered?"

"Shut it," she weakly retorted. Dove flew over to her Guardian and unfortunately had to pull him away so he could be ready for parading. Eve did the same for Faye.

Before, he left, Faye caught his attention, "Sebastian, I love you."

His heart swelled before he responded, "I love you too, Faye Rutherford." There was a feeling in both of their chests, and it felt so official.

As they both departed, the Traveler was pleased with the outcome. While it may be 'dead' in the physical sense, it most certainly is not in the others. It made this all possible and it couldn't be happier. After all, it was a chance that was beyond their reality.

...

Title drop... kinda! Needed to check that off of a cliché story. Plus, I like it. When I got the idea for this story, I originally thought this was going to be a few chapters, like ten and like mid 70k words. Nope, I was wrong.

I'm glad for it, last I checked, this was over 21k views. Which I know views don't really matter, but I didn't expect this story to blast off into the sky like it did, so it means a lot to me. Thank you.

I will say my next story will take me to an entirely different section of FF. Y'all like a bunch of people swinging around weapons they made themselves by the time they are in high school? I don't think I could drop more of a hint than what I just did.

Minus all of notes, the final word count is 172,338 words. (Using AO3's word count). Which means I have over 11,600 ish words of Author's notes. That's a lot.

Anyway, seriously, thank you for all the love and support. I appreciate all of you. If you're reading this a year from now, this applies to you as well.

From the author,

Soul of Horus

Okay, why is it now, all of a sudden, there are a lot of reviews. You all scare me. You be creeping up out of the woodwork. My email thanks you, and I thank you. You all do be forgetting about the bonus chapters I promised you. Yes, chapters. I have two planned, then you all get the editing document I have in my Doc Manager. Till then...