Man of Fiction

Helios Dome grew dark and bright lights flashed harshly on the stage. On the wide platform, was a screen that read, '15th Annual Mob Boy Order Cosplay Competition! Celebrating 15 Years of Mob Boy Order!'.

The crowd went wild, and Emily Rose prayed in the front row. I hope Gareth is doing alright backstage, she thought.

The emcee walked to the center and showed off the most extroverted smile. She wore the cosplay of another female character named Shaira, who was a fan favorite. It consisted of a ragged sleeveless shirt, dark baggy jeans, fingerless gloves, and a couple of bandages on her muscular arms and face. But Emily noticed one inaccuracy to her costume, which was the exposed cleavage. Shaira never showed any in the show, but throughout the years, lots of fans somehow fetishized her overall appearance since she was considered a very attractive character. Boys in the audience stared lewdly at the host and began to make wild noises. Emily wanted to move away, but the place was getting too congested.

"Welcome to the Annual Mob Boy Order Cosplay Competition!" the emcee greeted, with tons of zeal. "This year's Fan Meet is a special one for all of us, because we are also celebrating 15 YEARS of the greatest animated show of all time!"

The audience roared.

"15 YEARS! CAN YOU IMAGINE THAT?!" the Shaira emcee shouted. "We may never get to see its beloved ending on screen, but the heart of the show will always remain with us!"

The music of the Mob Boy Order's iconic opening song started to play, getting all the fans riled up. Emily found herself getting pumped up, when she heard the music playing. She missed listening to it, so much.

"Before we start the competition, let us introduce our panel of judges!" she said. "First off, we have our very first emcee of this program. The man who made all of this possible, Matthew Fynn!"

The interviewer from earlier stood from his seat, giving a huge wave to the fans. "Moving on, we got one of the greatest animators of all time. He is the head of the Mob Boy Order animation, Mr. Hideki Shamon!" the female emcee continued. An old eastern man stood from his seat, giving a humble bow to the young fans. Everyone gave him a much louder applause. When he sat down, the emcee spoke louder and said, "Finally, the queen behind this masterpiece! Give another hand to the Author!"

Screams filled the space, when the Author stood from her seat. She shyly waved at everyone again and quickly returned to her seat.

"OKAY LET'S GET THIS COMPETITION STARTED!"

The emcee called in all the competitors to walk down a runway. Every cosplayer strutted down and showed off their props, costumes, and poses. She saw the Lost Boys group, who had their pictures taken and the Cyrus cosplayer from earlier. Emily decided that they were the tough competitors. Their costumes and roleplaying were close to the ones in the show.

Eventually, it was Gareth's turn. He simply walked, like he normally did with his head high and his hands behind his back. At the end of the runway, he bowed to the crowd and returned to the backstage. The panel of judges were all astonished, except for the Author, who leaned back on her chair with her wrinkled sleeved arms crossed. Emily peered over to her direction, discerning the Author's expression. Her small smile was a bit difficult to read for the brunette. It's a bit too early to tell, she thought.

The program then proceeded to the talent portion, where the cosplayers gave a minute long performance for the judges. There were definitely some memorable performances; a Rowan cosplayer sang the love theme of Gareth and Rowan, beautifully. She wore the doctor's iconic long, royal blue coat but Emily could see parts of her natural hair peek through her wig. The Lost Boys gave a dance performance to a song that she has never heard before. Judging from the laughter and cheering, the pop song was probably from a running inside joke that she was not aware of. The Cyrus cosplayer reenacted a fight in Mob Boy Order, with some back-up stunt actors that he most likely hired. The antagonist's theme song played, while he flawlessly evaded the attacks. Everyone, including Emily, were engrossed in the performance. He received a standing ovation for his wonderful acting.

Gareth finally made an appearance, but no music accompanied the monk. He stood still for a while, causing murmurs to stir across the convention hall. Emily clasped her hands together and prayed. The monk then did slow arm and leg movements, like he was dancing with the air. She noticed that he was doing his warm-ups again. He coursed through the stage, leaving everyone in awe of his techniques. Gareth was usually collected, but she has never seen him more at peace with himself. His movements gradually became faster, and he started fighting a nonexistent opponent. He became Gareth the fighter again, his arms and limbs disappearing to the speed he was creating. Emily saw the animator giving bizarre looks, seeing his animation come to life on the stage. The Author still had her kind gaze on, her brown eyes following him closely.

The competition moved to the introductory speeches, where every contestant had a one-on-one talk with the emcee. They all put on their best roleplay, imitating the characters that they were representing. The Cyrus cosplayer matched his voice to the character's voice actor, earning a nod from one of the judges. The Rowan cosplayer also did well, using the emotions of her character to sway the audience. Just as Emily predicted, the Gareth cosplayers used his famous speech in the show, and they all channel the monk's vengeful persona since it was the most popular one.

"Okay were down to our last contestant!" the emcee said. "Going as Gareth, give it up for… Gareth!"

The audience clapped as Gareth returned to the stage. He placed his hands behind his back, giving a slight bow to the emcee. "I must say, your performance was simple but effective." she commented, once the audience calmed down.

"Thank you very much." he said, when the microphone was directed to him.

"Tell us a bit about yourself, Gareth."

The brunette braced herself; It was time to recite the words Emily wrote for him.

"I'm a former Class S Protector of the Masahiro Human Protection Company." he began. "All my life, I had one goal--and that was to avenge the death of my brother, my precious Adal. He was murdered by a man named Cyrus, who was the leader of the Lost Boys. In order to fulfill this, I took a series of gambles in my life. I trained in the art of Meiyo, because I wanted--no, I was desperate to become stronger. My teacher then told me to not use my acquired powers for my revenge, but I did not listen. All this time, I thought I was wagering the gift of the Qishi energy.

But I was wrong.

I met someone, who made me forget about my hatred--even for just a short while. At first, I thought her company was only a hindrance. But every time she would leave my side, my heart would always yearn for her return. It was then I realized how important she has become to me. Unfortunately, the value of my love for her was just as great as my hatred for Cyrus. I was forced to choose, and I chose to quench my revenge. I constantly told myself I was getting rid of an evil, but it did not ease the pain. It also did not erase the fact that I chose Cyrus over her--that she became my wager.

With my revenge fulfilled...I… honesty...I feel lost. There is a life before me, and I don't know what to do with it. Without her, I do not know what to do with myself. All I can do is allow my heart to break, but a part of me desires that a miracle will come before it disintegrates completely."

The contorted Gareth wiped the unexpected tears from his eyes, which stunned the audience. Emily placed a hand over her mouth. Most of her words were there, but the last part was his. She felt her own tears forming around her eyes, and she was even more surprised to see some of the fans also going teary-eyed. The panel of judges were taken aback by this, but the Author kept on her smile. Emily began to wonder if she was feeling anything, at all.

The emcee was simply stunned by his emotional words, clearing her throat. "Oh, Gareth," she stuttered. "I always knew you were in pain, I just did not imagine this much"

"I apologize for my sudden outburst, as well." Gareth sniffed, putting his shoulders back. "But I will confess that I am now filled with regret."

"That you chose your revenge over Rowan?"

"...Yes."

"Thank you for sharing, Gareth." she said. "And now we have arrived at the end of the cosplay competition! While our panel of judges deliberate, let us watch this year's winning animated music video created by The Boiling Egg!"

The lights dimmed to allow the screen to shine bright. The Mob Boy Order fan music video began to play.

*****

Gareth took deep breaths, removing the unsteadiness that he felt. Some contestants patted him on the shoulder, complimenting him on his acting performance. He could only nod, for his mind was preoccupied with the Author. While everyone showed emotion and pity, the Author simply smiled at his confession. A part of him thought that she must have known him, which somehow gave the monk hope. Maybe she can help me, he thought. She can help me get rid of this regret.

"Hey, you did well." the Cyrus cosplayer approached. "Every Gareth cosplayer went for the angry route. Going for his emotional side, was a stroke of genius!"

"Your performance is remarkable, as well." Gareth said. "I can fully guarantee that your footwork and flexibility were incredibly accurate."

"Gee, thanks!" The cosplayer laughed heartily, which did not fit with his antagonistic persona. "I wish you the best of luck."

"I wish you all the best, too."

*****

"Now this is the moment that you've all been waiting for!" the emcee shouted. "Before we announce our victors, I'd like to thank and congratulate our contestants. Give them a hand, everybody!"

Everyone rooted for the line of talented cosplayers, and then the judges climbed up the stage to join the emcee. "Of course, we are going to start with our second runner-up!" the emcee continued. "The second-runner up will be announced by our first judge, the Mob Boy Order Fan club president, Matthew Fynn!"

The man in the Mob Boy Order shirt took the microphone with a grin. "The second-runner up will be receiving a prize money of 3,000 coppers, and a limited poster with the signature of the entire voice cast! Be sure to come tomorrow, guys. The entire Mob Boy Order cast are going to unite tomorrow for a panel session!"

The audience clapped and cheered, but the emcee immediately settled them down. "The second-runner up is contestant number…. 12! The Lost Boys Group!"

The group next to Gareth jumped out of excitement, and they joined Matthew Fynn at the center stage. They took their pictures, receiving a gigantic gift check of 3,000 coppers and the biggest poster that they have ever seen. "Congratulations, The Lost Boys! Your meme performance will never be forgotten!" the emcee said. "Next up, our first runner-up, which will be announced by the legendary Hideki Shamon!"

The senior animator took the microphone, holding a glass-cased Gareth figurine. "The second place winner truly astonished me, and I have never thought I would love my job even more." he said, humbly. "Congratulations, contestant number 6, Mr. Cyrus!"

The Cyrus cosplayer that Gareth befriended squealed, shaking the monk's nearest shoulder. He smiled and clapped for him. The second placer went to Mr. Hideki's side, receiving a check of 7,500 coppers and the prized figurine. "I hope you don't mind if it's your nemesis." Mr. HIdeki jokingly said, gaining laughter from the winner and a lot of people.

"Now, for our champion!" the emcee hyped. "Which will be announced by the one and only… Author!!!" She gave the microphone to the Author, who made the crowd go wild once again. She gawkingly laughed at them and she kept pushing down her gangly arm, telling them to calm down. "As promised, this year's champion will receive 10,000 coppers, a signed copy of The End of Mob Mentality, and a free dinner from me!" the Author said.

"Whoa!!!' The crowd said.

"I hope the winner enjoys Lao Diat and spring rolls," she added. The audience laughed again, but the cheers went on. Emily clasped her hands and she shut her eyes tight. Please, she thought in her inward prayer. "Before I declare the winner," the Author continued. "I just want to say that everyone did a great job! Thank you for expressing your love for my work, through one of the best performances I have ever seen. All of you will get far, in life." She bowed to her clapping audience, but the tension was slowly rising. Everyone, especially Emily, was dying to know who won the lucky chance to dine with the Author.

"The grand winner of this year's Mob Boy Order competition is…contestant number 15! Gareth!"

Emily stood from her seat and squealed like she was a college student again. The worn out muscles in her stretched from her sudden movements, but Emily did not seem to mind. She kept on clapping and shouting for Gareth, cheering him on.

The Cyrus cosplayer gently pushed the stunned monk forward. Gareth slowly walked to the center, and he finally stood before the Author. The mysterious woman smiled at him, handing him a bouquet of flowers and a large check.

"Congratulations." she said to him.

*****

Emily and Gareth anxiously waited inside the private room, with Eastern string music playing in the background. After the end of the first Fan Meeting, Matthew Fynn collected the two and brought them to a limousine. The luxurious vehicle transported them to a fancy Lauriat-style restaurant, which had private rooms for dining. Security guards led them to their designated spot and then told them to wait for the Author to come.

Gareth tapped his foot lightly, while Emily picked on the flower petals from the bouquet. The Eastern string music continued to play, creating lovely tunes. But it did not ease down their nerves.

The door slid open, making Gareth and Emily stand from their seats. Another bodyguard entered, giving way for the Author. She still wore the same wrinkled clothes from earlier, and her hair was messier from up close. She gave her usual sheepish smile and bowed to the two. Emily and Gareth bowed in return, waiting for her to speak up. "Oh, have a seat!" she mused, putting herself down. When they sat, the Author placed a ponytail holder in between her teeth and she gathered up her unbrushed hair. She wrapped it into a bun, while the server entered giving them menus. "It was Matthew's idea to eat here," the Author said, slouching into her seat. "What do you guys normally prefer? As promised, it's my treat!"

"Uhm, I never had Lauriat-style meals before." Emily confessed. Gareth read the menu, with his green eyes calculating and his shoulders stiff. Emily noticed the Author smirking at his mannerisms. "I think the first set will suffice." he suggested. "Emily Rose adores meat and poultry, so perhaps she will like the Roasted Duck."

"What about you, Gareth? Will this suffice for you?" the Author chuckled. "What's your real name, by the way?"

The monk snapped the menu closed, looking at her seriously. "I'm perfectly fine with it." he answered, politely. "And please call me Gareth."

The Author nodded, sheepishly. She leaned onto the table, placing her elbows on the white clothed surface. She handed her menu back to the server, without looking at him. "You heard them," she said, casually. "They'd like the first set."

The server bowed to her and left their room.

The Author placed her chin on top of her clasped hands, eyeing the two with the same lazy smile. Emily nervously grinned back, but Gareth remained stoic. The Author slightly faced the bodyguard, who was watching them. "Figgins, can you leave us alone for a bit?" she asked. "Attend to Matthew, wherever he is." The bodyguard bowed and also took his leave. She waited for the footsteps to grow distant and when they were completely gone, the Author slouched back into her seat. "Okay, we're finally alone." she said, playing with her fork. "What is it that you want to say to me, Ga-reth?"

"I'm sure you know who I am," he started. "And I need your help."

"With what, exactly?"

"Isn't it obvious? I want to go home."

"Home?"

Emily was in a state of confusion. She came up with various scenarios on how they were slowly going to break the news to the Author, but she did not expect it to happen so quickly. "Where is home, exactly?" the Author asked, making her fork balance on the table.

"Uhm, if I may," Emily said. "Gareth isn't really...of this world." She waited for a disturbed reaction, but the Author just smiled. She placed down her fork and crossed her arms. "Really? Interesting, please continue."

"He appeared in front of my home, one night." Emily explained, carefully. "And I've been looking for ways to get him home, ever since. He knows that Mob Boy Order is the world you created, so we came here to find answers."

"No wonder why I felt like letting him win the competition." the Author admitted.

Emily blinked at her statement. "You...you let him win on purpose???"

"He stood out from the rest of the cosplayers, in my book." the Author explained, leaning onto the table again. "He also looked like he really wanted to talk to me. So here we are." Silence followed the table, and Gareth continued to look at the Author of Mob Boy Order, intently. She maintained her kind smile, which became enigmatic for Emily. She could not tell if she was taking them seriously, or not. She faced her hunched posture to the staring monk. "So you're telling me that you're really Gareth of Adonis." she said. "You're the actual main character from my stories."

"Affirmative," Gareth said. "I know it might be hard to believe, but I have no other reason to lie or make this up."

The Author nodded, her face more unreadable than ever.

"Okay, then." she simply said.