Orville: Lost in the Multiverse

chapter nineteen: a bittersweet farewell

As the sun began to dip below the skyline of New York City, casting the tower in hues of orange and purple, the celebration in the Avengers Tower continued in full swing. Laughter and music filled the air, but amidst the joy, a sense of melancholy lingered for Ed and Darulio. Their time in this world had been filled with battles, growth, and an incredible union, yet they knew their adventure was far from over—and it was time to return to their own realm.

As the party began to wind down, Ed and Darulio found a quiet spot on the rooftop, away from the festivities. The skyline twinkled with city lights, but all Ed could focus on was the warmth radiating from Darulio's presence beside him.

"Can you believe we actually did it?" Ed asked, a soft smile playing on his lips. "We got married, and we beat Strange Supreme and Loki."

Darulio chuckled, brushing his fingers against Ed's. "It feels surreal. Just yesterday, we were fighting for our lives, and now... look at us." He gestured around, taking in the remnants of the celebration. "We've created something beautiful."

Ed nodded, his heart swelling with affection. "I wish we could stay longer, but I know we have to return. Our world needs us, too."

Darulio's expression turned serious, his gaze steady on Ed's face. "I know. But that doesn't make saying goodbye any easier. You've changed my life in ways I can't even begin to describe."

"I feel the same way," Ed replied, his voice thick with emotion. "You gave me the strength to believe in myself again. You've shown me what love truly means."

They stood in silence for a moment, lost in each other's eyes, the weight of their connection anchoring them in this bittersweet moment. Ed's heart ached at the thought of leaving Darulio behind, but deep down, he knew they would always carry a piece of each other with them, no matter the distance.

"Promise me we'll find a way to reunite," Ed said, his voice barely above a whisper. "Even if it's across dimensions, I want to see you again."

Darulio smiled, his eyes shimmering with unshed tears. "I promise. Love knows no boundaries, and neither does magic. We'll find each other."

Ed took a deep breath, trying to hold onto the moment, but he knew it was time to move forward. "I think the others will be looking for us," he said, nodding toward the fading sounds of laughter from the party. "They'll want to send us off properly."

"Right," Darulio said, squeezing Ed's hand gently. "Let's go then."

Together, they made their way back to the main area, where the remaining Avengers had gathered, their expressions a mix of joy and sadness. Tony approached them first, a wide grin on his face, though his eyes reflected the gravity of the moment.

"Hey, lovebirds! You ready to head back to your dimension?" he asked, his tone lighthearted yet sincere.

"We are," Ed replied, a bittersweet smile on his face. "It's time for us to return home."

"Just remember," Natasha chimed in, stepping forward with a playful smile, "if you ever need us, you know where to find us. And you both better keep in touch!"

Lucy nodded enthusiastically, stepping closer. "And don't forget to send us updates about your adventures. We'll be rooting for you from here!"

Darulio and Ed exchanged glances, the warmth of friendship surrounding them. "We won't forget," Ed promised. "You've all been amazing."

As they prepared to say their final goodbyes, the atmosphere shifted, filled with warmth and camaraderie. The Avengers gathered around them, a collective embrace of friendship and support.

"Alright, you two lovebirds," Tony said, a hint of emotion creeping into his voice. "Let's get you back before I start getting all mushy."

With a wave of his hand, Tony activated a portal, swirling with brilliant colors and pulsating energy. It was a gateway that would transport Ed and Darulio back to their world, a doorway to the next chapter of their lives.

Ed turned to Darulio, his heart racing. "Ready?"

Darulio nodded, his eyes filled with love. "Always."

With one last look at their friends, Ed and Darulio stepped through the portal, hands clasped tightly together. As they crossed the threshold, the world around them began to shimmer and blur, the sounds of laughter fading into the background.

In an instant, they found themselves back in their own realm, the familiar landscape of their world stretching out before them. The colors were more vibrant, the air infused with the magic that pulsed through their very beings. But as they looked back at the closing portal, they felt the weight of their journey—a mix of joy, nostalgia, and the promise of what lay ahead.

"Ed," Darulio said softly, pulling him into a warm embrace. "No matter where we go from here, I'll always be with you."

Ed smiled, resting his head against Darulio's shoulder, feeling safe and loved. "And I'll always believe in us, no matter the distance."

As they stood together, wrapped in each other's arms, Ed felt the spark of magic ignite once more. Together, they would face whatever challenges lay ahead, hand in hand, heart to heart, ready to write the next chapter of their story.

the end....