It was early Tuesday morning. Samantha and Alexander were sitting at the breakfast table in her parents' empty suite enjoying their coffee and tea in silence. Their room and bathroom had been restored to their original state so that there was no trace left of their wild wedding night and the not-so-quiet day that had followed. Between sips of tea, Sam said:
"Either Celine agrees that we have that magic pin every other weekend or I draw my Divine Trump card."
The nonchalant way she had said this almost caused Alex to choke on a sip of coffee and get a rather dastardly look in his eyes. Three days remained for them in this universe before they would make the jump to the new universe and start building an entirely new society for Humans, Demons, Celestials, and Angels. Today they would go to Dis with the children and a fairly large party. They reckoned about six hours in Dis, which would be a little over half an hour in Heaven. Something they felt was more than enough for a first visit to Dis because the kids would all undoubtedly need a nap after that experience. From what they had heard, Dis could hardly wait for his return. Dis had seen Samantha very regularly over the past five years. She had been placed on a pedestal by the residents there. For everyone, she had a warm smile and a kind word ready. According to the timeline in Dis, they had not seen Alex for fifty years. Tomorrow the kids would go to Disney World. For Samantha and Alexander, it would be a workday. Sam would meet with her department heads and Alex with BAM's big six as he had baptized them to their great delight. The day after tomorrow their second visit to Dis and the rest of the day relaxation. He had an idea in his head to organize some kind of BBQ for the intimate circle and the department heads with a plus one, could be another fun social experiment as Alex called it last time. Some music in the background, maybe a piano for his dad so he could do one of his famous sets and just enjoy each other's presence in the palace garden. The next day the madness would break out. The mood in Dis was euphoric. Their Prince and Princess who had already done so much for them would finally take their place on the thrones and make everything even better. Alex had to admit he was quite nervous. Yes, he was the God of two universes but on top of that, there would now be the throne or better thrones of Hell. He wanted to lighten the mood a little because he noticed that Sam was equally as nervous as he was:
"What are you thinking about, except sex, Gum Drop?"
She smiled at him, put down her cup of tea, and said:
"To be honest the kids Love. They don't know Dis. Oh make no mistake, Dis is nothing like when we started our work ten years ago. Over the past five years, I have continued our work with Dad looking over my shoulder from the background. When Demons asked him questions about what I was doing, his answer was simply that they should ask me because I was their future queen once you returned from your journey. That we would then ascend the thrones together. But it is and always will be Hell."
"Darling as long as they stay away from the circles and stay in Dis all will be fine. From what I heard from Freya and Maila who have accompanied you to Dis often enough in the last five years you are pretty much a saint there and now that they know they have a new Prince of Hell along with five Princesses I think pandemonium will break loose once we get there."
She laughed out loud and said mysteriously:
"You have no idea love."
He gently squeezed his eyes shut and asked with a mischievous smile:
"Spill it red what awaits us, awaits me."
Now it was her turn to tease him a little:
"But gummy bear, gumdrop you do know that your Goddess works in mysterious ways. But one very small clue I can give you. Celine, some of the other girls, and I have an appointment at a certain tailor specializing in certain leather outfits. For the second part of that, you will have to wait my Greek God."
His breath stopped for a moment, and he struggled to get his brain back online. He could still remember damn well what her very first of those outfits had done to his brain and body! No to mention those that followed.
He smiled sneakily and said:
"If we weren't expected at the suite and the kids' so soon I would have to put you over my knee and tortured the answer out of you..."
"Maybe I'll keep you to that mister with my next little secret."
Both looked longingly at each other with sneaky smiles. Until she said:
"You will soon be crowned King, and I will be crowned Queen so unfortunately for you mister beach-bum no jeans and T-shirt. Neat suit and tie. When we get to the suite later you must help David. He said he wanted to look just like you, So that everyone would know he is your little Prince. You're lucky, we only have one son. That boy wants to be more and more like you love, you are his great example, his hero. Since Beatrice threw herself in the arms of Laila and chose her as her new mommy Laila and I must take care of five girls who want to be our princesses at any cost. Well four of those girls, the fifth our Honeybee wants to be just like her daddy. That means jeans, a T-shirt and in her case sneakers"
He laughed and said:
"Yes, darling I am grateful for that because I would never survive those girls bouncing around the room and their bathroom."
She got a little dreamy for a moment and said:
"Alex, I couldn't be happier with those perfect girls of ours and that perfect boy."
She sighed for a moment and asked:
"Are you ready to face the gang?"
"With you always and everywhere darling."
Samantha and Alexander stepped into their suite, and one couldn't even call it controlled chaos. Laia and Daniel were close to having a nervous breakdown because six kids scrambled around the room, firing one question after another at the two. Alex watched it amused for a minute and then whistled on his fingers and said played sternly:
"Okay, you little brats this is no way to treat poor Papa Daniel and Mama Laila! Motormouths shut it for a minute, get in an orderly line from young to old or you'll get a can of whoopass."
The kids knew all too well that he was joking but did what was asked of them anyway because they found it fun and came to stand before their God and Goddess. Alex and Sam looked at them one by one and Sam said with undisguised mischief in her voice:
"First, a couple in love like Papa Daniel and Mama Laila should be treated with respect and need some peace and quiet so that they have time to enjoy each other."
The two on the couch turned bright red which was exactly what Sam had intended.
"Secondly where are the grandparents?"
David said with a smirk that began to look incredibly similar to his dad's:
"Grandma El and Grandpa Lu just got back and now all six of them are in their suite."
Alex said with the same kind of smirk:
"And that gave you six the idea to shake things up here for a while."
He pointed at David:
"And you are without a doubt the instigator of this whole circus young man."
The smile on the boy's face widened some more and he shrugged. Samantha caught herself suddenly saying something her mother had once said to Alex:
"Oh boy, you and Grandpa Robert are going to be such good friends."
Which elicited a roar of laughter from Alex and Sam said:
"Oh, jeez help me I sound just like my mother, for fuck's sake!"
After those last three words, she slapped a hand in front of her mouth for using that kind of language in front of the children. Daniel and Laila had been watching the whole family dynamic thing with a big smile. Daniel said:
"I take it our task is hereby finished and we can prepare in peace?"
Samantha crossed her arms, looked at them rather sternly, and said:
Maybe for you Daniel but certainly not for that Angel of yours! Laila is the mom of Trixie and therefore also willingly or unwillingly pulled in the rest of this family as a Chinese volunteer one could say, and as the second mom by choice of the other girls, so she is going to neatly join me in making sure that these Princesses are ready to make an unforgettable impression in Dis. You, Daniel, together with Alex are going to make sure you two are presentable and are going to get my beautiful boy ready to become the new Prince of Hell and thus present himself in Dis as their rightful Prince. As said, belonging to this family is not only enjoying the perks but you also share in the hard work. So, you three get lost in that room and don't come out until you are respectable!"
Samantha and Laila heard to their delight three voices say meekly:
"Yes Ma'am"
Afterward, they more or less fled into the master bedroom and bathroom. The last thing they heard was Alex's mumbling:
"For fuck's sake, six thousand years and she's still bossing me around!"
About half an hour later, a lot more time than the three had actually needed to get ready, they dared to venture back into the living room. Daniel was wearing a three-piece gray suit that met Laila's full approval. However, it was David and Alexander who demanded all the attention. Both wore charcoal-colored tailored suits with a gray shirt and black shoes from Louboutin but this time not low dress shoes but more like semi-high boots that resembled heavy military boots. Alex wasn't known as a formidable warrior in Dis for nothing and Dis remembered all too well that their benign young Prince could change from one second to the next into the true terrifying Prince of Hell. It did absolutely not surprise Samantha that her son had followed his father's example. Alex had chosen a black tie with his personal red fire-spitting dragon. Until he was on the throne, he was and would be the rightful prince of Hell. Later he would say to Sam that David had wanted the same tie but that he had vetoed it until he became the official prince of Hell after Samantha and himself took the thrones. And so, David had been given a black tie with a red Devil emoji. Both also had cufflings on with the same emoji something Alex found extremely amusing. And couldn't wait to show them to Lucifer just to tease him a little. But above all, he had his wedding ring, as the absolute centerpiece, with his seal. The ladies were a model of elegance, dresses worthy of a Princess. Samantha had of course chosen green again the color of Alex's eyes and again she wanted to show that there was a change of power. Low cut with a slit but this time a little less revealing than usual. Her necklace from Eloch because she knew they would be visiting the jeweler and she wanted to bring him honor by wearing his creation clearly visible. Her wedding ring visible so no one could miss that she was now not only the Goddess, the future Queen who would occupy the throne but most importantly to her she was Mrs. Morningstar. Laila had on a half-length purple dress that did not leave much to the imagination and made Daniel's heart beat a lot faster. The girls had chosen dresses that reflected their personalities. Sarah had again chosen blue, she was a mama's girl after all, Beatrice for yellow because she had become really attached to the nickname Alex had given her, Sunflower, and wanted to reflect that in her dress. Maila and Jasmine had matched their dresses it was becoming more and more obvious that they were a real couple. The cutest of all was Elise. She had apparently made a scene when at first her mother would not let her go dressed as a honeybee. The little one had threatened a revolt and to go to her daddy to ask him. Samantha had given up that fight knowing full well that Alexander would not be able to say no to his little girl. So, Elise was dressed like a Honeybee including the feelers. Samantha and Laila had shaken their heads wondering how this would be received in Dis. And with that, the new Goddess and her God immediately had the first rebel in the family. When this story later reached the ears of Samael and Lucifer, they could not be prouder of the new little rebel. Max was really glad that since his experience at the wedding party, he had been spared further dressing up by the girls. His job was to stay close to the kids at all times and show the hellfire in his eyes if needed.
The party made their way to the square in the front of the palace where the rest would be waiting for them. When everyone was gathered Alexander addressed them:
"Good, we know that Samantha and I are loved by the people of Dis. So, I don't expect any problems there. However, I do not want to take any risk because I know that there are Demons from the absolute lowest regions of the circles who have not yet forgotten what I did to Amag, among others. Mainly those from circles nine and eight. The chances that they will try to attack me are minimal because they know what I am capable of and they know what I would do to the whole of Hell if someone looks in the wrong way at Samantha. However, I don't want to take any chances with the children, Daniel, Laila and Ella. Robert and Salome now that they are no longer gods and Aisha and Franklin whom they do not know. For that reason, I have arranged quite a bit of protection in Dis for this first visit until I regain a physical sense of what is going on in the city. Here's what we're going to do. Celine at all times to Samantha's left, Micky at all times to my right. In addition, I have arranged for three visible phalanxes. Daniel, Laila and Ella will be surrounded by one of them at all times, the same with Robert and Salome and with Aisha and Franklin. The children will be surrounded discreetly by a double, one visible and one invisible phalanx. Michael, Celine, Samael, and Lucifer it is your job to keep your eyes on the spectators at all times, you are professionals, and you know what to look for. There are also inconspicuous people of ours walking around among the audience doing just the same thing as you. The first one who looks a little askew at the children or the others will be taken aside and isolated until our visit is over. To be very clear that we are serious about their protection, Celine, Michael, Micky, Lucifer, Samael and I will openly wear our swords. That should be enough to deter anyone who might be planning something idiotic."
Samantha asked:
"Is such a display of power really necessary Alex?"
"I don't think so Love but Dis knows me from five years ago as a warrior. I would rather have them believe that I still am that warrior feared by Hell's mightiest warriors and that this time I brought all the generals with me to protect our children, their Prince and Princesses because they are the future. Better be safe than sorry love."
Everyone saw the wisdom of his words and so there was no further objection. The six took out their swords and hung them on their backs ready to react in a split second. In Dis, the katana would be immediately recognized and that would immediately dampen tempers among any hotheads.
Alexander snapped his fingers and the entire party stood in the courtyard of the palace in Dis. There they were met by the General of the warriors who would protect the VVIP visitors during their stay. He stepped up to Alexander and Samantha, knelt before them, and said:
"MyLady, MyLord everything is in readiness."
He stood up and gave Alexander a hand and they hugged each other which made it clear that the two had a friendly past and relationship. A friendship they had developed when it became clear that Robert was increasingly taking his hands off the day-to-day running of Dis and leaving it to Samantha and Alexander. The general, who at the time was a captain, and Alex had immediately developed a friendly relationship based on mutual respect. Which was often enough helped with a few bottles in the study Robert had manifested in the palace for Samantha and Alexander.
"Alex it is so good to finally welcome you back to Dis. It has been far too long since we were able to welcome you into our midst."
Alexander smiled at the general and asked:
"Arad, it is good to see you again. I have missed you, my brother. I hope all is well with you?"
"Absolutely my friend. I have some news that I think you will like. Don't look at Sam because I asked her if I could tell you myself. I found my own Samantha about thirteen years ago and immediately understood what you meant all along when you spoke of Sam. Her name is Sacha. Twelve years ago I found the courage to ask her to marry me and to my utter amazement, she said yes, no idea what she sees in a grunt like me. We have a wonderful son of eleven that I couldn't be prouder of, his name is Rob."
Alex immediately took him in a heartfelt embrace and said:
"I'm sorry I couldn't be there Arad to celebrate with you. We definitely need to catch up soon with a couple of good bottles."
"We will certainly look forward to that Alex and it will be our honor."
After this happy reunion, Alex became all business again:
"Has there been any trouble Arad?"
The latter laughed sincerely:
"Not so much trouble. A hot head or three who were very quickly put in their place by the leaders of their circle after which the news spread through all nine circles that the first to try anything today would not be so happy even very very unlucky. Nothing has changed in the respect the circle leaders have for Samantha and you. You are still the Boogie Man Alex. Samantha is still the Princess, and they would walk through fire for her. Dis is totally loyal as far as your Goddess is concerned and they certainly haven't forgotten their Prince. Now that you are not only our Gods but are becoming our King and Queen that respect has only increased. Their message was loud and clear and very clearly received by all. However, I understand your concerns, my brother, these are your children, and I would do the same for my boy. But I can assure you that Dis is absolutely safe for the little ones and your entourage."
The general got a very wide smile:
"Something you will notice the second you step through that gate. We will of course perform our duty as you have assigned with everything we possess."
He looked directly at the children and said:
"My prince, My princesses prepare yourselves because something fantastic awaits you!"
Alexander took a deep breath it was, after all, six thousand years since he had been in this Dis. Something the residents at least didn't need to know, for the moment. He had no secrets to keep. Samantha took his hand and his breathing calmed down. They were the new Gods so they would go out first followed by the children. Honeybee started to get a little scared and wanted to be on her daddy's arm. The latter could do nothing but pick up the girl with a warm smile. His other hand took Samantha's and he nodded to Arad to throw open the palace gate so they could step outside. Their eyes grew large such a crowd they were not expecting. Cheers sounded from everywhere that their Prince and Princess, now their God and Goddess were back and back together and making their appearance. Like the other times, they tried to make eye contact with as many Demons as possible and give them a warm smile letting them know they had been noticed by their Gods. Not only were their names being chanted but also those of the children and Lucifer and Ella. The Devil, who was not used to being welcomed in Dis in such a friendly manner was struggling emotionally for a moment. Alex whispered in his ear:
"Get used to it Dad this is the future. The future of you and Ella, as far as Dis is concerned, you are the parents of their King and Queen and the grandparents of their Princesses and Prince...."
The crowd seemed beside themselves that their Prince and Princess who were so popular because of all they had done for Dis were now the Gods and would also become the Queen and King of Hell very soon. They were equally happy that the Gods had brought their children a new Prince of Hell and new Princesses of Hell. A whole bunch of children wanted to approach them and that made the guards a little nervous, but the reassuring smile of Samantha and a sign of Alexander put them at ease, and they allowed the children to come closer. All they did was force them into a little line so that Sam, Alex, and the children would not be overwhelmed. The sunshine that Alex had given Dis had done wonders. The shabby flowers they had brought last time were now beautiful little bouquets of wildflowers that the girls offered to Sam but also to their Princesses and Ella, Laia, Salome, and Aisha. Everyone wished and shouted congratulations to them on their marriage but Ella and Lucifer were not forgotten either. In no time Ella had her hands full with flowers given to her by the girls. Dis had clearly seen on the big screens that Sam preferred white flowers and so in no time, she had a huge bouquet of white flowers in her arms. Alexander and David were inundated with letters and cards. After fifty years, Dis apparently had not forgotten that Alex had always taken the trouble to write back a short reply to every letter and card he received. As then, he made his own and David's disappear to his office at Fuzzy's place. Alex resolved to make it a father-son experience in his war room to respond to those letters and cards and explain to his son why he felt it was so important to write a few sentences in response to the effort that Dis's kids had taken. A young Demon came forward with a letter for Alex. He was no longer a child but rather in his twenties. Well, that was a bit of as well, he looked in his twenties because aging in Hell and Heaven happens on a whole different level than Humans aging on Earth. The guards wanted to stop him at first, but Alex thought he recognized the young man and let him come to him. The Demon got down on one knee but was soon helped back to his feet by Alex who said:
"I know you. Forgive me if I don't remember your name, for me it has been a while since I was in Dis. May I know your name and what I can do for you?"
The young man replied:
"I was only a kid of nine when I first saw you and gave you a letter. I never expected an answer but three days later I received a beautiful letter from you encouraging me to pursue my dreams. I wanted to tell you that I did what you said MyLord, and I am now teaching the youngest to write, read, and do math, in a small classroom. And that this brings absolute satisfaction. Thank you for that, MyLord!"
A smile appeared around Alex's mouth, and he said:
"Now I remember, you are Samar. I was so excited when I read your letter and believe me, I am so proud of you for making your dream come true. Thank you for wanting to help the little ones in Dis with such an important job. During the coronation of Lady Samantha and myself, I want you as a guest of honor. We will have something to discuss with you Samar to take your dream to a whole new much higher level."
One saw the young man's eyes grow moist and his chest widen. Not only did his Prince still recognize him from all those years ago, but now he was a personal guest at the coronation, and they had a special officious task for him. No one in the group escaped flowers or a gift. So, it was quite a while before they reached Arbus' workshop. The weapon smith was extremely happy to see his Prince again and got down on one knee, his chin proudly raised:
"MyLord, can I be of service?"
Alex replied:
"Arbus, royal master blacksmith, please stand up. It does my heart good to see you again after such a long time my friend."
Arbus' eyes became huge, this Prince, now God continued to amaze him with his kindness.
"Arbus I have a task for you if you can free yourself."
"For you MyLord always. What can I make for you?"
"I need nine weapons. Three training swords, three real swords, and three rapiers, are you familiar with Toledo rapiers?
"Of course, MyLord."
"Can you do those in twenty days?"
"Absolutely MyLord."
"These are for my son David and my daughters Sarah and Beatrice."
Alexander called the three to his side.
"Arbus, can you help them choose a sword that suits them with a hilt that fits their hand perfectly? But no katana's!"
The weapon smith took the three into his workshop for a moment and reappeared ten minutes later with the children:
"I can make the perfect swords for the Prince and Princesses MyLord and they will be absolutely ready when you come to pick them up in twenty days."
"Thank you Arbus I am never going to forget your services and mastery."
And then Alexander did something the demon had never experienced before. His God reached out a hand and Arbus had timidly extended his and Alex shook that hand firmly.
Samantha and Alex then wanted to visit their second friend Kasha. He wanted to thank her for the special mug she had made for him and at the same time wanted to ask her if she could make six new ones for the children. One with a honeybee, one with a sunflower, one with a warrior in the likeness of David with his own black suit with the fire-breathing dragon and balaclava, he would become the new Prince, so it was time to pass on his outfit in a way. How exactly that would be he kept between himself and Samantha for the moment. One with a jasmine, one with a rolled-up parchment, and one with a princess in blue on a green mug. The reunion with Kasha was joyous for all three of them and she promised to have the mugs ready on time. Then it was the turn of Eloch who was beside himself when he saw Samantha wearing his creation. However, he did not get to see Sam for long because she was dragged by Celine along with Sarah, David, and Beatrice to the famous, or according to Sam's father infamous, clothing maker. Celine her explanation was if the kids wanted to learn from her and the two Michaels they should at least look like real warriors. What she had in mind for Samantha Alex didn't want to think about that for a while.
"Friend, I need something from you that I want to come pick up in twenty days."
He manifested a piece of parchment with a new seal. An amalgamation between his seal and a seal that indicated he had children, his Prince and Princesses.
"I want twenty rings with this seal, a green background, and the seal in pure gold and twenty-four necklaces with a blue stone with this seal in pure gold. I also need one ring half green and half blue with this seal and one necklace with a half green and half blue stone. These last two I need as soon as possible. Do you think this will work?"
"MyLord, in twenty days I can certainly do this for you and your family."
"Thank you Eloch, I am forever in your debt."
The way back to the palace was even slower than the way there. Everyone looked around at the various wares on offer and a multitude were ordered by just about everyone. However, they were also often stopped by bystanders who wanted to exchange a few words with them, something Alexander and Samantha patiently took their time for. If they weren't already popular, they certainly were now. Salome and Robert just felt that the two were held in the highest esteem by the residents of Dis. Only Samantha and Alexander knew an even bigger surprise was coming for Dis but that surprise would have to wait until they ascended the thrones in twenty Hell days. When they finally reached the palace and the gates closed behind them, the children heaved a sigh of relief. They were not used to this much attention. That so many people came to watch them, encourage them, and want to give them gifts was something completely strange. It was obvious that they were tired from the trip. And the emotions associated with such a visit. They were not yet used to their title and what was associated with that title. They had seen how popular their mom and dad were among the people of Dis and their respect for them had grown even more. David was determined to become like his father a good strong man who met everyone with respect, friendship, and love. Alex addressed Arad:
"Friend, can you get everything in order in the next twenty days?
Samantha and I will ascend the thrones then. Haniel has left the screens up so everyone can follow along."
"Yes, MyLord the list of guests is ready and will be sent out in a short while, of course I'll add Samar to that list like you want. Everyone outside the throne room will be able to follow along and the most important guests can take their seats in the throne room. My people and I can promise you that everything will go off without a hitch."
"Thank you, Arad. You know what, why don't you, your wife, and your son come upstairs with us after the ceremony? I think I have something you might like, all three of you. So, pack your bags as if you were going on a very long trip. Clothing is not necessary we can help you with that in abundance. I was thinking more of personal items that you would like to have close by as if you are going to be away from home for a really long time."
He said with a sneaky smile. Before Arad could answer, he snapped his fingers, and they were back in the square in front of the palace in Heaven.
"What are you up to with Arad and his family?"
Asked Samantha in silent communication with a chuckle because she knew there would be something typically Alex behind it again:
"He has served you faithfully for fifty Dis years, I think he is entitled to a vacation of five hundred years darling. Let him enjoy his family. All in all, it will be a day or two at most that he is away from Dis, so perfect."
"Have I told you at some point that I love you, Alex?"
"Yes, but not nearly enough darling. But you know what, you can make up for that tonight!"
That elicited a laugh from her that no one could escape. This kind of quiet conversation followed by that kind of laughter told everyone that those two loved each other up to their eyeballs and it pleased everyone. Gods ruling based on love was a sign to everyone that things could only get better with those two on the thrones for all of them.
The children seemed tired. Although not as much time had elapsed in Heaven as in Dis. Samantha and Alex saw that it was definitely time for the youngest to take a nap. Elise was in the worst shape she had already fallen asleep on her father's arm. Samantha beckoned Anna and asked her to make sure that Elise, Sarah, Beatrice, and David would sleep for at least an hour or two. Maila and Jasmine were old enough to decide for themselves whether to lay down and where for a while.
After Anna took the children to the suite, Samantha and Alex took the rest to his office. Now that the council had doubled, he had also doubled the conference tables in both offices so that everyone had a seat. There they were soon joined by Gabriel, Bearus, Belios, Jo, Azrael, Raffa, Fuzzy and one of Raffa's healers who had a special connection with children and had become Fuzzy's right-hand woman in no time, her name was Evi. Freya, as usual, provided coffee and tea for everyone. This time, to the delight of Sam and Alex she took a seat at the conference table. When everyone had taken their seats, Samantha said:
"We know this was supposed to be more or less a day off, but we still have a few questions, especially since a few of you can't attend the last full council meeting tomorrow. And some of our questions don't really fit into a general assembly hence."
"No problem."
said Michael.
"Before such a gigantic operation gets underway everyone is full of nerves MyLady."
Sam replied:
"Please let's keep it with Sam and Alex, this is family helping family."
At the table, people nodded in agreement. Alex said:
"Michael and Celine, you are coming with the last group. Arriving on day 24, is the choreography ready?"
Celine replied:
"Yep, we got it down to a T. Everything will go as planned. We whipped everyone into shape, and they thought it was damn exciting and fun."
"Belios, Bearus, and Lucifer can you work together as equals to get the new Hell in order and probably with some help of Arad as well? I also want to offer him a vacation and he is as much a general as Belios and Bearus, who served and protected Samantha with everything he had. Just like you protected me B&B. I want to get him ready to chair the council in Dis so that they can establish a form of self-government just like we did in our Dis where they are only going to need me and Sam for symbolic functions. As a matter of fact, I don't see that you three should work as generals under a King. I want the four of you to work together as equals and prepare the future for both halves of Dis by reaching compromises. Because I think this will achieve the best results."
Bearus said:
"If Arad is a general who protected and served Sam faithfully at all times then he is nothing but a brother to us!"
Lucifer replied:
"Alex as your lovely wife has already said I am King in name only and I couldn't give a damn about that bloody title. Once that cursed throne is destroyed that title is history. Belios and Bearus may be my generals but also that is in name only, they are in all respects your generals son. And Arad is yours and Sam's but because of your example, all three of them are your friends, your brothers, instead of subordinates. As we've seen all too clearly. So yes, we will be able to work together as equal collaborators and give you the best of ourselves so that both halves of Dis will function perfectly."
Samantha asked:
"Jo, same question for you. How is the collaboration between you and Riddia on your project going?"
"I have the daycare and elementary school completely under control. Together we are working on secondary school because the curriculum is a bit more complicated and Riddia is working on higher education because that curriculum is very specialized. Fair is fair, we had some problems in the beginning. Not just with each other because we both have totally different specialties but nothing serious. More with putting together a balanced curriculum because we both have absolutely no experience with it. Now we have found our groove and are making progress by leaps and bounds."
"How much more time do you think you will need before David, Sarah, and Beatrice can start their elementary school and Maila and Jasmine can start high school?"
"Riddia and I consulted with Evi and Fuzzy about that. David, Sarah, Jasmine, and Maila have never had any school like what we understand by school. Beatrice is the only one familiar with that concept. However, we have come up with a game plan that is workable for all five. Beatrice will be taken apart for an hour or two a day to continue the program she had on Earth. Time is not an issue, she is an Angel and we have five hundred years. In addition, we want to engage all five of them simultaneously in a program that emphasizes learning through play and games and things peculiar to Angels. Beatrice and Maila can read, write, and do math so let them help the other three, on top of the basics we will teach them, by doing fun things. For example, they teach how to make up short stories that they put on paper together."
Alex and Sam thought about this for a moment and Alex said:
"Yes, that seems like a good plan. Let's give that a shot and see where that takes us."
Sam said:
"Leila, Michael, Micky, and Celine you are going to Disney World tomorrow with the kids. Unfortunately, Daniel has to stay here because as a soul he can't roam free on Earth."
With a sneaky smile, Alex asked:
"So how about you Laila? how do you feel that you and your daughter are having to walk around on Earth alone without her father, your boyfriend?"
The Angel replied a little sadly:
"Trixie has since told me that she would rather go to the Kennedy Space Center instead of Disney and I am sorry that Daniel cannot come along to experience her passion for space travel."
Daniel sat there equally sad. Alex looked at both of them and spoke to them quite seriously in his role of God:
"I don't know if you two are too timid, too scared, or just too stupid! On the morning of the ceremony, you three barged into my office asking what the difference is between a soul and an Angel. I believe Samantha gave you the most obvious reason. That you can go through existence as a family with all the potential that a family brings. So, are you going to stay stupid or are you going to finally open your eyes and mouth?"
He looked Daniel and Laila sternly in the eyes:
"Well, mom and dad? Are we going to be stupid much longer or are you going to make your daughter happy and finally open your mouth and ask what you really want from me? Throwing open all the possibilities of a celestial family, including siblings for our Little Sunflower?"
The Detective and the Angel got big eyes:
"You would just do this for us, Alex?"
"Of course my friends. Like Sam said this is family helping family!"
"Yes MyLord, then I would like that. Being able to go to Earth together with Trixie and Laila as a family seems wonderful."
"Fine, that's settled then. After dinner gather in the throne room then we will make it possible for you to experience Trixie's great passion as a family. And at the same time have a little fun what is the point of being Goddess and God if you can't have some fun? Gabe message to everyone on the senior staff, all of them, attend or taste the leather of my boot and everyone keep their trap shut, not a word to our Sunflower, let it remain a surprise to her."
Both Daniel and Laila got tears in their eyes and grabbed each other's hands. Samantha shifted her attention to Fuzzy and Evi:
"Evi, Fuzzy, what about the children? Is there a reason why there have been no new nightmares so far?"
Evi said:
"Yes, the biggest reason is you two. All six feel completely protected by their parents. Especially since the ceremony where Beatrice decided she wanted two mothers and two fathers, and the others have quietly unconsciously done the same. This has reduced their anxiety exponentially. I would advise against drastically changing that dynamic between the six for now. My medical advice would be to make two suites in the new palace connected by a neutral space where the children can meet and interact as they do now. I understand that Trixie and Sarah share a room and are extremely happy with that. Separating the two too soon could cause a relapse for both as they would feel partially left alone again. Will nightmares follow? Undoubtedly. But we have fortunately been able to adjust Raffa's diagnosis. Trixie because she sees that her father is near her daily and because her dad has found a new love, an Angel that she herself truly loves and truly sees as a mom and not a substitute for what she lost. No, genuine deep feelings for Laila. Also, because she is assured of the protection and the love of six Gods, four of whom have claimed her as granddaughter, she has three generals from Heaven, two generals from Hell, and thousands of Demons and Angels in her corner to fully protect and surround her against any evil. Not to mention that she has dealt with her mother's ghost in her way, giving her anger an outlet and we suspect she hasn't quite finished with that because she has that vibe not to be done yet. I am not going to comment here on whether this is good or not from a moral standpoint. From her point of view, it is processing the trauma done to her by Decker while showing Decker how much better off she is now. If at some point it does become visibly malicious it will have to end."
Alex and Sam thought for a moment and deliberated in silence. Sam asked:
"Can we set up the suite so that Daniel and Laila have their own sanctuary and Trixie and Sarah's room could be the boundary between the two living hemispheres?"
"Yes, piece of cake. Two suites and let the kid's rooms be the crossover. You propose it."
Sam addressed Daniel and Laila:
"Listen you two we have the following proposal for after the jump. We want to enlarge the suite. A suite for you guys with everything a normal suite has, so your private sanctuary. Trixie and Sarah want to continue sharing a room for the time being, so we will make that room and the other children's rooms the transition zone between both suites. That way the kids live in both suites and we each keep our little sanctuary."
Both did not know how quickly or how hard to nod and agree to that proposal. Alex continued:
"Okay, that's Trixie and Sarah. What about the rest?"
Evi continued:
"Maila has had a pretty normal upbringing. She was five when she was taken away from Dis by you two. Those memories of Dis and her existence there have all but faded because you took her in from day one and treated her like a little sister. Now that she shares a room with Jasmine and forms a cute little couple with her, we suspect that there will not be so many nightmares for Jasmine because Maila is helping her a lot. She does so by telling her stories about you and how you helped her and Freya once they arrived in Heaven. Therapy will be necessary of course but that can be done in a gentle almost imperceptible way especially if things get difficult and she can always fall back on Maila."
Alex and Sam breathed a sigh of relief and anxiously awaited the sequel for David and Elise.
"Elise is the youngest and feels safest in her daddy's arms. Will nightmares follow, absolutely but she is young. The memories will fade soon enough. Our advice is simple, let her stay the daddy's girl she is for as long as she needs which is her safe place."
Fuzzy said with undisguised pleasure:
"The worst that can happen is that Alex will forever have a daddy's girl who will want to crawl away in his arms from time to time."
That caused a very wide smile on the faces of all present. Alex asked:
"And what about our son?"
Fuzzy's eyes lit up completely:
"If you haven't figured that one out yet Alex then we have a new God who is an idiot. That boy loves his mommy incredibly much, but it is his daddy he idolizes. He wants to be like you in everything. Kind, loving, humorous, mischievous but above all strong and just. Will there be bad moments with nightmares? Of course, but then you have to be there Alex. Seeing you, feeling your arms around him will do wonders. Oh, Sam, make no mistake, he's going to need you just as much but for other things. That son of yours will need both of you equally but for different things. You will have to accommodate him as a family unit, you each have your strengths and he will need them both."
Alex and Sam nodded in agreement. Sam asked Raffa:
"Raffa, are you ready to become the head healer on Terra Nova? There will be the occasional Angels with some bumps and bruises but that is the least of our problems. We worry more about the souls we take with us on our trip. Not just because accidents can and will happen on the job. However, they all come from Hell, and some would need therapy."
"Don't worry, we're ready for it. My people think of it as a general rehearsal on a small scale for when we get back and that monstrous project gets unleashed. We can get into a routine already and waste less time learning everything on the fly. Fuzzy and Evi are taking on a new Department. We have concluded that pediatrics would better stand apart as its own medical Department and that frees up our hands for adult medical care."
Alex asked Azrael:
"Rae Rae, we will be kicking ass once we make the jump, are you and your people ready to pick up the souls in the pocket dimension and bring them by Raffa for an initial triage?"
"Yep, we have everything under control boss. Both dimensions are almost full. The only thing my people have problems with is that they act emotionally. Very bad sometimes, it's the children and adolescents. Ideally, they would like to get them all out at once and give them a home. This keeps them highly engaged in their minds and hearts."
Alex looked at Raffa again:
"Raffa from the arrival at Terra Nova a mandatory evaluation of Azrael's people, at least once a week, her people who are having the hardest time at least one therapy session a week."
He thought for a moment and then looked at Gabriel seriously. After a minute, he turned back to Raffa:
"How about we bring in an outsider for Rae Rae and her Angels? Someone who is used to giving patients a weekly therapy session, a conversation, where they can talk about their feelings. Where they can release their emotions and their frustrations and give them a place. A kind of outlet. Would that save your people time?"
The healer thought about this for a moment and said:
"That outsider should have experience with the supernatural Alex. We don't have time to train someone in such a short time and if it is someone from the pool from Hell we may have to give that person therapy before that therapist can work on his own."
"Don't worry, I think I have the perfect person in mind."
Said Alex with a heartfelt smile.
"Gabe, we are going to visit Doc Linda tomorrow morning or invite her here, before the general assembly starts. I think we need reinforcement."
Gabe nodded and said:
"I'll make sure she finds a note on her table so she can be expecting us. Just say what you want in it or write a letter yourself and I will make sure it is delivered nicely..."
"Perfect, I'm going to write a letter myself, do you want to come pick it up in the suite later?"
"Always boss!"
Alex turned to Ella:
"What about your preparations for the integration of souls? They are going to come from Hell into Heaven, so they are going to need some help and explanation."
"I have a playbook ready. As long as I don't have a thousand souls a day to deal with from day one. I can perfect it as I go along. Ideally a few souls a day during the first few days so Cas and I can fully master it before expanding. I want to use a few Angels but also souls themselves later on. If the newcomers see that there are souls just like themselves at work and happy in their new existence it will make a huge positive difference. As for the Angels, I would like to use an Angel from Jo and other Angels whose specialty is people and their well-being. I have a list ready and have talked to them and we see no problems there."
Alex said with a warm smile:
"I expected nothing less from the best student in my class. Does anyone have a cookie for Miss Lopez, oh excuse me Mrs. Morningstar, or am I required to say mom from now on?"
This provoked a laugh around the table and Ella got a blush on her face.
Finally, Sam turned to Freya with a warm smile:
"As Maila's mom, I can imagine you wanting to join us on our trip. However, I think there is another reason?"
"Master Alex and Mistress Sam..."
Upon hearing that title of address, Alexander and Samantha immediately began to groan out loud.
"You have done me and my Little Maila the honor of giving her the name Morningstar."
Alex interrupted her immediately:
"No, that's not an honor! She's our little sister so she deserves to bear our name! She has every right to do so!"
"Nevertheless for that, I am forever in your debt. She went from an outcast in Dis to a true Princess of Heaven and Hell which is something we never thought possible. But that's not the only reason. This project will be so insanely busy that you will need a housekeeper. Alexander with certainty, as you are well aware Samantha. He loses himself too easily in his work. He always wants everything done immediately for everyone so that everyone feels good, and he forgets about himself! To make sure someone is always there for the kids. That there is someone to make sure you guys drink, eat, and take a break on time. I intend to oversee that and implement rules which I will ensure that those are enforced!"
Alex shook his head and said to Sam:
"As if three mothers weren't enough, now we get another stay-at-home mom but this one all to ourselves! Can someone tell us why we are the Gods when we are bossed around by everyone?"
This provoked laughter at the table. The meeting ended with a sentence for everyone:
"Everyone later in the throne room and not a word to Trixie. Please let it remain a surprise!"
The evening meal in the suite with the children and Daniel and Laila were in a sort of celebratory mood. Daniel and Laia had finally come to terms with the fact that they were not only Beatrice's parents but those of the other five children as well. Just like Trixie, had chosen two mothers and two fathers, the other five children had seemingly done the same thing and would not take no for an answer. The adults sat in silence listening to the children's stories of the things they had seen in Dis. What Sam and Alex immediately noticed were the stealthy glances David threw at his parents from time to time in which an absolute adoration could be read. Suddenly the boy couldn't contain himself and asked:
"Mom, Dad how old were you when you became the Princess and Prince of Hell?"
The conversation at the table fell silent as all the children but also Daniel and Laia wanted to hear that answer. Sam answered:
"You will remember that I said that I am the only Angel born and not created by Grandpa Robert and Grandma Salome. Yes?"
Vigorous nodding followed:
"Honestly, we think this was done on purpose, by whom we do not know. That your daddy and I were predestined for each other. Otherwise, my universe would have had a Goddess without a God and your daddy's universe would have had a God without a Goddess. Your daddy has done something that has never happened before. Something so enormous that no one thought it was possible including Grandpa Franklin and Grandma Aisha. Because he loves me so much, he linked two universes. But to answer your original question, I was the Princess of Heaven and Hell from the moment I was born, because from that moment on I was the Crown Princess. Your papa became the Crown Prince of Hell when he was thirteen."
David asked:
"Did they immediately respect him so much, love him so much?"
"Hmmm, good question. Ten years ago, Dis was very different from now. What they had was a semi-dark existence which made everyone a little sad and the people in Dis were really afraid of the warriors from the lower circles. Your daddy really did a masterpiece there. Something that perfectly describes who your dad is. A good man who always wants the best for everyone, who wants everyone to be able to be happy, and who absolutely cannot stand the fact that there are bullies who like to hurt smaller people or weaker people. On the second day he was there, he taught a very big bully a lesson, to free Maila and her mom. Since that day, all warriors in Dis wanted to be like your daddy. They want to protect the weaker people. And that was the beginning of the change in Dis. A few years later when he had grown in his powers as Crown Prince of Hell and the Crown Prince of the multiverse, he gave Dis a sun and starry sky as a parting gift because he had to go on a long journey. And as you can see now that he's back they still love him and can't wait for him to become their King. And you can believe it will be a fantastic celebration the day after tomorrow!"
The boy's eyes became big like saucers, and Sam saw that Fuzzy's words were absolutely true. This boy idealized his father. She was proud of David for choosing Alexander as his role model because if he grew up like his father, great things lay ahead in his future. David asked:
"Am I also going to grow in my powers so I can become as good a prince as Daddy?"
Alex replied:
"That's a little too early to know son. Those powers usually begin to manifest when you turn twelve. But looking at you, my beautiful boy I do not doubt that you are going to become as important to Dis as I am."
Suddenly Alexander said in a very nonchalant way:
"Hmmm that is strange, I just got a message from Gabe that we are all expected in the throne room because there is a surprise for all of us. No idea what that is but I can't wait."
He stood up and snapped his fingers and was suddenly dressed in one of his tailored suits again and Samantha did the same. He spoke to the children:
"Chop chop if you don't hurry you won't know what that surprise is either!"
The children did not know how quickly to get ready to follow the adults. Honeybee, how could it be otherwise on Alexander's arm. Silently they entered the throne room and there the entire council was waiting for them. Alex asked as if he knew nothing about it:
"Okay Gabe, why did we have to come here and what is this surprise?"
Gabe answered playfully:
"MyLord, we have come to the conclusion that you have forgotten something very important."
Alexander wanted to stretch the game a bit and said played sternly:
"Gabe, I am God I don't forget anything!"
"Well, I guess in this case you did MyLord. You know the kids are going to Disney tomorrow and Trixie would rather go to the Kennedy Space Center for her great passion, space travel. She is going with her mom Laila, but we forgot her dad, Daniel."
"Yes, I know because Daniel can't go along because he is a soul."
"Yes MyLord, but you are God, you can make Daniel an Angel. Then not only can he go along but then they are a real Angel family, and you know what daddies and mommies do and the consequences well..."
Alexander handed Elise to Samantha for a moment, and they sat down on their thrones:
"Beatrice, Laila, and Daniel come stand before me please."
The three did as they were asked. Laila already had tears in her eyes because she had known since that meeting that afternoon what was going to happen. Beatrice stood between Daniel and Laila and held a hand of each. Alex looked at her:
"Sunflower would you like your dad to come with you to the Kennedy Center tomorrow?"
She could not speak and only nodded as tears ran down her cheeks. Alex decided to lighten the mood a bit:
"Girl, you know if I make your daddy an Angel that eeuuww things can happen between him and your mom, and suddenly nine months later you're a big sister."
Now she had found her smile again and it was visible on her face:
"I'm already a big sister to Honeybee, so I'm already training."
He chuckled from the throne and said:
"Daniel please come and kneel before me."
something the detective was happy to do.
"Daniel, can you assure me that you are here by free will and by free will want to receive what I offer you?"
"Yes, MyLord!"
Alex put his hands on his head after which they lit up properly, after a while the light seemed to disappear in Daniel and suddenly two dark blue wings appeared. Alex laughed and said:
"Perfect, the color of a police uniform and an Angel of Justice. How could it be otherwise Detective Espinoza."