As dawn broke the next day, people across Earth began to stir from their slumber, many finding their faces wet with inexplicable tears. A profound sense of loss and yearning gripped them, though they couldn't quite remember why. Parents held their children tighter, couples embraced longer, and friends reached out to check on one another.
This wave of emotion was particularly intense for those who were awakened by loved ones who hadn't experienced the previous night's phenomenon - those who hadn't existed in the erased timeline. These reunions were especially poignant, filled with an unconscious gratitude for existences that had been denied in another reality.
"I had the strangest dream," became a common phrase that morning, spoken in countless households. Though the specific memories would fade like morning mist, the emotional impact of experiencing those alternate lives would linger, reminding people to cherish the precious bonds they shared in this timeline. Yet, among the bittersweet reunions, there were also those who woke with inexplicable feelings of hatred and loss - echoes of lost relationships, conflicts and betrayals from a timeline that no longer existed.
Diana's Apartment
As Orach guided them through Diana's memories of the erased timeline, both he and Rachel witnessed Diana's raw emotional journey. Pain, sadness, anger, and rage played across her features as she relived moments of loss and betrayal. Rachel's consciousness, frustrated at being unable to comfort her mother, could only watch as Diana revealed her most vulnerable side.
"Stay strong, little one," Orach whispered, gently patting Rachel's head as he sensed her distress. "Your mother is stronger than you know. Watch with pride as she faces these difficult memories."
As Diana's experience neared its end, showing Orach's departure in his divine form to go correct the timeline, father and daughter exchanged knowing looks. With a gentle gesture, Orach severed Rachel's connection to the dreamscape, allowing her consciousness to return to her own mind. He then turned his attention fully to Diana, who remained deep in the memory-dream.
He stepped toward Diana in the memory and placed his hand gently on her shoulder. "Diana," he called out, his voice resonating through their bond. The touch served as an anchor, helping Diana distinguish between memory and reality.
As awareness returned to her eyes, she found herself separate from the shadow of her memory and turned to find the real Orach by her side.
Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around him, burying her face in his chest. "Thank you, my love," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "For showing me these memories, for trusting me with this truth, for returning to me. Thank you for saving my sister, my mother, and my people—for protecting us all from that terrible fate. Thank you for entering my life and filling it with more joy than I ever dreamed possible."
Orach held her tight, his voice filled with emotion. "You have been my anchor since the day I crashed into this lower realm, Diana. Just as you've been there for me at my lowest—whether comforting me after we read my mother's letter or bringing peace to my past echo—I want to be your anchor through every storm life brings."
He gently lifted her face, his thumb brushing away a tear she hadn't realized had fallen. "I want you to know, my love - unless I have truly fallen, I will always find my way back to you."
Pulling back slightly, he gazed into her eyes with an intensity that made her catch her breath. "I love you, Diana. I truly do. You are my heart, the mother of our precious Rachel, and my Empress. Before I left, I had planned to follow human customs - to create some grand romantic gesture, to find the perfect moment. But I've realized something through my recent experiences." A soft smile played across his lips. "Every moment with you is perfect. So I won't wait any longer." His voice softened as he took her hands in his. "Diana of Earth, will you marry me?"
Diana's eyes widened, her heart racing as she processed his words. The raw honesty in his voice, combined with the love resonating through their bond and the sincerity in his eyes, overwhelmed her with emotion. Time seemed to stand still as memories flooded her mind - their first meeting, their intimate moments, battles fought side by side, the joy of raising Rachel together, and now this moment that would mark the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.
Diana's eyes welled with joyful tears as she gathered herself. In the next moment, she freed her hands from his grasp and cupped his face, drawing him down while rising on her tiptoes. Their lips met in a tender kiss.
"The height difference will certainly take some getting used to," she murmured with a soft laugh as they parted. Her expression grew tender as she continued, "This will have to do for now, my foolish, wonderful man. Also, you speak of grand gestures, yet everything you've done - saving my family, protecting our future, returning to us - those are the grandest gestures of all. Just so you know, I never needed a grand gesture in the first place. All I needed was for you to pose the question."
She traced his face gently with her fingertips. "But this moment deserves to be shared. So, to get the proper answer, ask me again in the real world, with our daughter present. She should be part of this new chapter in our lives."
Diana's expression shifted, concern creeping into her features. "And then, my love, we need to talk about what happened in the Void Realm." Her voice grew softer, but more serious. "These changes in you... they speak of trials and hardships I can barely imagine. We promised to be each other's strength, didn't we? So please, open up to us. Let both Rachel and I, understand what you've endured when we weren't there by your side."
After a thoughtful pause, Orach nodded. "I understand, my love. You're right. I intended to share my experiences with you both from the start. As for these memories, I'll preserve them safely. When you wake, you'll remember their essence without being overwhelmed by their emotional weight. Should you wish to revisit them, they'll be accessible in the ship's archives. But for now, It's time for you to wake." With that, he channeled his God Ki to guide Diana's consciousness back to the waking world.
As Diana's presence faded from the dreamscape, Orach's expression turned blank. "You can emerge from the shadows now. It's quite discourteous to spy on such intimate moments." With a precise snap of his fingers, he separated this pocket of reality from Diana's consciousness, transforming it into a temporary dimension.
A low, measured voice responded from the darkness, carrying both authority and subtle intrigue. "To manipulate the fabric of dreams as you just did, Lord Orach, without the permission of the sovereign of this realm, could also be considered... discourteous." A tall figure materialized before him, his presence commanding yet ethereal.
Starlight seemed to emanate from his very being, illuminating pale white skin and wild black hair that moved as if caught in an invisible breeze. Though dressed simply in a grey T-shirt and black pants, his ancient blue eyes betrayed his true nature. "As sovereign of this realm, all dreams fall under my dominion - even those touched by divine power."
"Sovereign?" Orach's eyebrow raised slightly, his curiosity piqued.
The figure's lips curved into a faint smile. "Ah, yes. Formal introductions are in order. You've met my sister, albeit briefly - she who is Death. I am her brother, Morpheus, Lord of all Dreams and ruler of the Dreaming."
"Fascinating," Orach remarked thoughtfully, his eyes studying the ethereal being before him. "You embody the very concept of Dreams itself. And that young woman I encountered earlier - she was Death, your sister?" His voice carried a mix of curiosity and intrigue, piecing together the connections between these entities.
"Yes," Morpheus replied with measured calm. "We are seven siblings, collectively known as the Endless. Each of us embodies a fundamental aspect of existence - Death, who you've met; Delirium; the twins Desire and Despair; Destruction; Destiny, our eldest; and myself, Dream."
Orach's eyes narrowed thoughtfully at the mention of Destiny. His mind flashed back to his conversation with Aeloria about this lower realm being a prime lower realm, and now pieces were starting to connect. He studied Morpheus carefully before speaking.
"I appreciate the introduction to your family," Orach said his expression thoughtful. "However, I have two matters I'd like to address. First, regarding your eldest brother Destiny - does he carry a stone or perhaps a book?"
Morpheus's features remained impassive, though a flicker of interest crossed his ancient eyes. "Indeed, he does. The Book of Destiny contains all that was, is, and shall be or atleast it should be however, since your arrival, the book's pages have gone blank for the beings of this universe."
"Interesting," Orach remarked, his voice taking on a more measured tone. "And what brings the Lord of Dreams himself to seek an audience with me? Surely not mere curiosity about my recent... activities."
Morpheus studied him for a moment before responding, "Your power has resonated through all realms, Lord Orach - particularly during your encounter with the Hand of Creation, and again when you stabilized this universe. Such actions cannot go unnoticed by beings like ourselves." He paused, choosing his next words carefully. "While your pursuit of vengeance against the Hand of Creation is understandable and even justifiable, I must urge you to reconsider. They serve a vital role in maintaining the cosmic order, not merely in creating new universes, but in preserving the delicate balance of existence itself."
"Hand of Creation..." Orach's lips curved into a cold smile as he tilted his head upward, a dark chuckle escaping him as he remember the female celestial that ambushed him. His gaze lowered to meet Morpheus's ancient eyes, his voice carrying an edge of dangerous curiosity. "Tell me, Lord of Dreams, does this... Hand have a name?"
"Perpetua," Morpheus answered, an uncharacteristic unease creeping into his usually measured tone as he observed the predatory glint in Orach's eyes.
"Perpetua..." Orach tested the name, his expression turned blank. "You've given me much to think about, Lord of Dreams. However, our discussion ends here." With a casual wave of his hand, he channeled his God Ki, catching the usually composed Dream Lord completely off guard. Before Morpheus could react, he found himself unceremoniously ejected from the temporary dimension.
Once alone, Orach methodically began condensing and organizing the memories. Once done, he pulled his God Ki's influence back and allowed the temporary space to dissolve naturally. As his consciousness returned to the physical realm, he was greeted by the melodious laughter of two very familiar voices.
"Well, this is unexpected," Orach murmured, raising an eyebrow as he took in the scene before him.
"Welcome back, my love," Diana's eyes sparkled with mischief. "What's unexpected? Did you think I would still be dwelling on the memories of that altered timeline?"
"Frankly, yes," Orach admitted. "Even though I removed the detailed memories, their essence remains. I thought some lingering sadness might persist."
Diana's response was to gracefully move toward her cross-legged man. To both Rachel's and Orach's surprise, she settled herself in his lap, resting her hands on his shoulders as she gazed into his eyes. "And whose fault is it that my sadness has been replaced with joy?"
Understanding dawned in Orach's eyes, bringing a warm smile to his face. "I'm truly glad then," he said softly, lost in her gaze.
Ahem
"While I'm happy you two are reconnecting," Rachel interjected with an exaggerated pout, "perhaps you could continue this in private, like in mom's room perhaps?"
The couple broke from their shared reverie, exchanging knowing smiles as they turned to their daughter. Orach gently guided Diana to sit at his right side, then patted his left leg invitingly. After a moment's hesitation, Rachel joined them, settling onto her father's other knee, completing their family circle.
"There's much I need to share with both of you," Orach began, his tone growing more serious. "And afterward, I have an important question for your mother - one I want you present for, Rachel."
Rachel studied her parents' faces and felt her mother's emotions, her keen intuition already suggesting where this might lead. While excited about the probable proposal, she was equally eager to finally learn about her father's experiences in the Void Realm. She nodded encouragingly for him to continue.
"Where to begin..." Orach took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts. "It all started when I entered the Void Realm..."
"I was ambushed," Orach began, his voice steady despite the weight of the memories. "The initial attacks came from low-level void beasts - manageable threats. But then..." He paused, feeling Rachel's grip tighten on his armor. "I encountered Void King Ghidorah, a three-headed dragon of immense power. When it started to hunt me, it became a desperate fight for survival for me."
Diana and Rachel listened intently, their expressions shifting between horror, anger, and fear as Orach described his ordeal. Rachel's knuckles whitened as she clutched her father's armor, torn between rage at the void beast and terror at how close she'd come to losing him.
"The battle with Ghidorah..." Orach's voice grew solemn. "He tore off my leg, forced me to put Mother Empress into preservation mode. I was alone, wounded, flying through an endless expanse of nothingness." He described the Void Realm, an infinite space devoid of celestial bodies, home only to vicious beasts that attacked anything foreign. "They call it the graveyard of the gods," he added softly, "and I understood why."
"But then something extraordinary happened," Orach continued, his tone lightening. "I crashed on an impossible planet - a small world with just one feature: a White Tree. Even the void beasts, even Ghidorah himself, wouldn't approach it."
"With one leg gone, in pain and bleeding, barely conscious, I crawled myself toward that tree," he said, meeting Diana's eyes. "The thought of you both kept me going - the need to return, to hold you again, to watch Rachel grow..." His voice caught slightly. "I had to make it."
Looking at Diana with a complex gaze, he continued, "The tree began healing me, but it also made me relive everything - my childhood, my friendships, my mentors... the Android War." His expression darkened briefly. "Shin, his sister, the impossible choices..."
"As the tree restored my body, it awakened something within me. The nine dragons, aspects of power I'd sealed away long ago. But it also showed me visions of the future..." Orach paused, choosing his words carefully. "I saw something troubling is heading for all realm but, in all futures, you and Rachel were constants in my life. I saw our future children, Saiyan-Amazon hybrids—an elder daughter and her young brother training under both of you."
This revelation stunned both Diana and Rachel, their eyes widening as bright, happy smiles spread across both faces.
He hesitated before continuing, "But the visions didn't stop there. I saw a radiant blonde woman with twin girls, followed by a woman in red, a sorceress from what I saw, watching over mischievous boys... and the final vision was of all of us together, including what appeared to be my reincarnated parents."
"These visions..." Orach admitted, watching their stunned and shocked expressions, "they troubled me at first. The idea of multiple partners wasn't something I'd ever considered - my parents' devoted relationship was always my model. But seeing the genuine happiness, the unity in these potential futures... I found peace with it."
Letting his words and confession sink in, Orach described his journey through each dragon's domain. Each one taught him valuable lessons, offering forgiveness and acceptance while granting him new understanding of his potential, goals, and strength—from Para's training to Aeloria's reminder of his mission to help lower realms, from Ragnar's help in facing his inner demons to Taliana's gift of the ancient sword style.
He described Ysraza's technological innovations and then moved on to Durgnar's unique teachings—though he quickly stopped mid-explanation when Diana blushed and glared meaningfully at him while gesturing toward Rachel. Catching sight of his embarrassed daughter, Orach cleared his throat and acknowledged his misstep. He then spoke of his profound experience in the Seventh Domain, where he confronted his past and made new vows for the future.
In the Eighth Domain, he gained access to tribulation lightning, a power that would help not only him but also his family grow stronger. Finally, in the Ninth Domain, his old friend Taron reminded him of the joy of exploration and adventure.
"The nine dragons now exist as inner worlds within me," Orach concluded, "each granting me deeper understanding of primordial laws. But more importantly..." He smiled warmly at his family, "they've helped me understand who I truly am, what I cherish most, and given me the strength to protect it all."
He held both Diana and Rachel tightly, drawing comfort from their warmth before continuing, his voice steady but filled with emotion. "After synchronizing with my inner worlds, I underwent an extraordinary transformation. When I awoke, my body had completely healed - even my missing leg had regenerated. I found myself taller, stronger, with senses sharper than I'd ever known."
"The White Tree had blessed me with these gifts, and I made sure to express my gratitude before attempting to leave the realm. However, first I had to face and repay a grudge. Void King Ghidorah awaited my departure from that world."
"In that moment, I unleashed my newfound power for the first time. My hair and tail shifted to midnight blue, while nine rings representing my nine dragon domains materialized behind me. I had become something unprecedented - a new Primordial God." His expression grew somber. "But this power… it gives me the feeling that, if I remain in that form too long, I risk permanent ascension to a higher plane of existence. The lower realms wouldn't be able to withstand my presence, meaning..." He squeezed their hands gently. "if that really happened, I could only reunite with you both after your own ascension. That's why I plan to focus on my bloodline transformations for now, only using Ultra Instinct when absolutely necessary—at least until you both are ready for ascension and can join me."
Diana and Rachel exchanged a knowing glance, recalling the phenomena they had witnessed during his ascension, and their expressions grew serious.
"Having just reached this form and not properly acclimated to it, the battle with Ghidorah was intense," Orach continued. "I managed to destroy its central head, but the beast's regenerative abilities were remarkable—likely because we fought in the Void Realm, though that's just my theory for now. We exchanged devastating blows across the realm. At one point, I even managed the seemingly impossible—in a timeless realm, I managed to freeze time itself to counter its attacks. In that moment, in that form, I became a living source of primordial chaos."
"For the final strike, I channeled every ounce of power at my disposal. The resulting explosion nearly tore the Void itself asunder. I succeeded in destroying two of Ghidorah's three heads, but before I could land the killing blow, the sheer magnitude of my power created a dimensional rift that pulled me away. In my exhausted state, I had no choice but to follow its pull. However, my battle with the three-headed lizard isn't over. One day, I will return and finish what we started."
"The journey through the rift was excruciating," he admitted, noting the concern in their eyes. "Chaotic energies battered my transformed body relentlessly. When I finally emerged, I found myself drifting through an unknown star system, barely conscious, observing seven planets orbiting a massive yellow sun. My trajectory was taking me directly toward the fourth planet."
"In my desperate state, I activated my ring of life, which began pumping healing energy through my broken body. The other eight rings worked in harmony, drawing primordial Ki from the surrounding celestial bodies to replenish my depleted reserves."
"My arrival on this new world was... cataclysmic," Orach said with a slight grimace. "The planet - ten times larger than Earth - trembled at my approach. The tribulation lightning surrounding me, combined with the gathered primordial Ki, triggered unprecedented phenomena. Storms of unimaginable power manifested, their lightning carrying both creative and destructive essence."
"Though I was barely conscious at the time, my landing's impact literally reshaped the world," he continued. "The single continent split into five distinct landmasses as tectonic plates shifted. Massive oceanic whirlpools drove these new continents apart. The cosmic power I'd brought from beyond the stars forever altered this realm's destiny."
"When I crashed landed, even in my severely weakened state, I sensed a village under siege. The inhabitants - who called themselves the man-folk - showed remarkable courage. Though physically outmatched by their attackers, they stood united, willing to sacrifice everything to protect their loved ones. Their pure hearts resonated with me."
"With my remaining strength, I unleashed tribulation lightning to vanquish the beast army threatening them. As consciousness faded, my rings formed a protective crystalline cocoon around me. The abundant Life Ki then manifested a great tree from my impact crater, which became a sanctuary for these brave people while I recovered in slumber for about three of your centuries."
Diana and Rachel were stunned to learn he had slept for three centuries. They understood, that while only a year had passed for them, Orach had been separated from them, his family for over three centuries when including his time in the Void Realm.
"Over time, these people evolved, calling themselves the Children of the Great Tree. They grew stronger and more resilient, learning to harness Ki. Their children evolved and developed abilities, receiving guidance through dreams from my comrades while I slept."
"What began as a humble village blossomed into a thriving civilization centered on knowledge and cultivation. They established training grounds and schools, developing a profound understanding of life, death, and the flow of energy. When I eventually emerged, Diana, Rachel, this made me truly happy, as it proved once again how right our alliance is, how right my people…were, that beings from the lower realms are capable of achieving greatness and deserve our protection."
"However, their peace was shattered by an intruder," Orach's gaze turned cold as he shared his battle memories with Diana and Rachel. They closed their eyes, finding themselves transported to witness the scene from above as he continued, "This being wielded a parasitic force called the 'System' that granted him extraordinary powers, abilities, and equipment. Initially, I suspected he might be a mere plaything of some higher realm's entertainment. However, the energy signature he possessed..." Orach's voice grew grave, "It matched the ominous visions I'd received of the threat all realms will face. His final transformation and power surge only confirmed my suspicions - he was an apostle of the entities I'm destined to confront."
Diana and Rachel observed the battle analyzing the enemy, their expressions serious. "These powers and techniques... we'll need to be exceptionally vigilant against anyone wielding such abilities," Diana noted thoughtfully.
"The Abyssal arts are particularly intriguing," Rachel mused, her tactical mind already at work. "They carry demonic aspects but lack a true demonic signature. Dad, could you program the ship's training rooms to simulate this opponent? If you're destined to face their leader, let us prepare by fighting these apostles. We may be weaker now, but we'll grow stronger. When the final battle comes, you can focus on their master while we handle these subordinates."
"I agree," Diana nodded, her eyes determined. "Orach, we should also extend this training to the League and other champions. As Rachel says, when the time comes, we'll stand beside you not just as family, but as an army."
Orach considered their proposal thoughtfully before shaking his head. "While I admire your willingness to help others prepare, we must be realistic. Diana, you've glimpsed the level of war I am hinting at, through my echo's memories. Can you honestly say the League or other champions of this universe could survive such battles, even with training?"
Diana started to object, but the vivid memories of what she'd witnessed during their battle with Orach's echo stopped her. Her pride in humanity's potential warred with the harsh reality of what she'd seen. Finally, she had to concede the point.
Seeing her internal struggle, Orach's expression softened. "Your people have incredible potential, and yes, one day they may be ready to face such cosmic threats. But for now, let them focus on protecting their own realm and growing stronger at their own pace. You two, however, are different." His eyes gleamed with pride. "As cultivators blessed by both the Primordial Gods and my mother, your potential far exceeds ordinary limits. With my guidance, you'll grow strong enough to stand beside me in these battles. That's what I truly want - to fight alongside my family. Plus once I return to the higher realms, I will be bringing in the forces of the alliance and our allies to prepare for the upcoming threat."
"I know today's revelations have been overwhelming," Orach continued, his voice gentle as he looked between Diana and Rachel. "Especially those visions, Diana. But throughout everything - every battle, every transformation, every moment in the Void realm or in the other lower realm - my heart never stopped yearning for home. For both of you. That connection, that love, is what guided me back."
Diana's expression softened as she studied him, a knowing smile playing at her lips. "From the beginning, I sensed this day would come," she said thoughtfully. "That one day, I would need to share your heart."
Her words stunned both father and daughter. Orach's expression clouded with concern, but Diana reached out to cup his face tenderly. "Listen to me, my love. While I would selfishly keep you all to myself if I could, your happiness means everything to me. If these future sisters of mine can love you as deeply as I do, if they can cherish and protect you with the same fierce devotion that I feel, then I will welcome them."
"But Diana..." Orach began, only to be silenced by her gentle touch.
"The visions showed us something important," she continued. "These women - they aren't just passing fancies. They will bear your children, create new branches of our family tree. And knowing you as I do, Orach, I know you wouldn't give your heart so freely unless they were truly worthy. Unless they had earned not just your love, but Rachel's approval and mine as well." Her eyes sparkled with amusement. "After all, do you think either of us would ever let someone unworthy near you?"
"You're taking this surprisingly well," Rachel observed, studying her mother carefully.
Diana's smile deepened. "Because I know something they don't - Orach and I share a soul bond that can never be replicated. We're true soulmates, connected in ways that transcend ordinary love." She turned back to Orach, her expression playful yet tender. "Now then, my dear fool, I believe there's something you've been wanting to ask me?"
Orach's eyes filled with wonder and deep love as he gazed at the remarkable woman before him. He took her hands in his before popping the question, "Diana of Earth, you continue to amaze me with your strength, wisdom, and boundless capacity for love. You are my heart, my home, the mother of our child, my empress, my soulmate. Will you marry me?"
Diana leaned in as she wrapped her arms around his neck and drew him into a tender kiss. When they finally parted, her voice was soft but filled with joy as she whispered, "Yes."
A soft click caught their attention, and they turned to see Rachel with her terminal, capturing the moment with both image and recording. A warm smile graced her face as she said "Sorry"—though her expression held no real apology.
Diana's gentle laughter floated through the air as she stayed nestled in Orach's embrace. She extended her hand toward Rachel. "Come here, sweetheart. This moment belongs to all of us."
After sharing in the tender family moment, Rachel's eyes lit up with curiosity. She pulled back slightly, her expression thoughtful.
"Dad," she began, her voice carrying both excitement and genuine interest, "could we meet your friends? Could we bring their souls out from your inner realm? It would be wonderful to meet them. Also, I've been reading about higher realm traditions—their marriage ceremonies sound incredibly sacred and meaningful. Have you thought about how you'll approach the wedding? Will you honor those ancient customs, follow Earth's traditions, or perhaps considering doing both?"
Orach gave his daughter a gentle smile as he patted her head. "For your first question... unfortunately, I can't bring their souls out of my inner realm right now. Their power would be too overwhelming for this lower realm. However," his eyes softened, "they're watching over both of you through me, and they love you deeply, my princess. Your aunts especially - they're already planning ways to spoil you and train you to become even stronger than they were. Your aunt Tali has even passed down her special techniques to teach you."
He chuckled warmly, "And knowing your aunt Ysraza, she's probably designing advanced mecha suits for both you and your mother as we speak." His expression suddenly turned thoughtful, catching both Rachel and Diana's attention.
"Although..." he mused, "perhaps I could bring your consciousnesses into my inner realm someday. That way, you could meet them directly..."
As soon as the words left his mouth, all nine dragon domains within his inner realm shook with thunderous roars of approval, as if the wardens were both approving of his suggestion and chiding him for not thinking of this solution sooner. His eyes widened in surprise before settling into a wry, self-deprecating smile.
Diana and Rachel shared knowing looks, clearly amused by his reaction. "They like that idea, don't they?" Rachel grinned. "I love it too. I can't wait to meet them."
"Same here," Diana added warmly. "I especially want to meet Para." Orach could only respond with an affectionate smile.
"Now, regarding your second question," he continued, his tone carrying both authority and humility, "as someone who stands above the god of creation in this realm, it would be... inappropriate for me to worship them and take our vows in ceremony in their name. After all your mother and I met due to the blessings of the Primordial Gods. However," his expression brightened, "I believe we can honor both our worlds in a meaningful way."
He leaned forward slightly, as he elaborated, "I propose we hold two ceremonies. The first would be an Earth wedding, but rather than invoking the local deities, we'll pledge our vows before the Primordial Gods who have blessed our union. Then, we'll follow with a traditional royal ceremony for our main celebration in the higher realms in the future, where our House's allies and my friends can attend and bestow their blessings."
His eyes moved between Diana and Rachel as he continued, "This way, both our Earth family and our higher realm connections can participate fully in our joy. It would bridge our worlds while respecting the proper order. What do you both think?"
Diana and Rachel exchanged thoughtful glances before Rachel broke into a wide smile.
"I love it," Rachel declared enthusiastically. "It's perfect - honoring both sides. Plus," she added with a playful wink, "two ceremonies means two chances to celebrate."
Diana nodded in agreement, "It's practical too - we can keep the Earth ceremony intimate, just family and close friends, while the higher realm celebration can accommodate all the dignitaries and allies who should be present."
Orach smiled warmly at their approval. "Then it's settled. We'll plan both ceremonies. Mother Empress, I would appreciate your guidance in helping them prepare."
A soft light emanated from Orach's terminal as Mother Empress manifested, her ethereal form radiating both warmth and authority. She gazed at Diana and Rachel with gentle affection, though her eyes held a touch of concern.
"It brings me great joy to see you both again," she greeted them warmly. "Princess, Diana." She then turned to address Orach, who noticed her serious expression.
"Young master," she began carefully, "while I share in your joy, I must advise postponing the formal ceremonies until Diana can achieve and maintain her Cardinal pink form at will. This isn't merely about power - it's about ensuring she can stand as your equal among the higher realms."
"Your ascension to primordial godhood has changed everything. Any union you forge, no matter how private you intend it to be, will draw attention across all realms. Even for an intimate Earth ceremony, we must consider protocol. Your childhood friends probably have all become formidable powers in their own right. And what of the Blood Monarch, your godmother, or the Overlord of Death, your master? Their absence would be... problematic."
Orach's expression grew thoughtful as the implications sank in. "You're right," he admitted. "In my happiness of reuniting with Diana and Rachel, I hadn't considered them."
Rachel looked between them, her brow furrowed. "But Dad, if they're such close friends, why haven't any of them come looking for you all this time?"
Orach placed a gentle hand on his daughter's head, affectionately patting it. "They couldn't have predicted my survival or where I'd crashed. But now..." He paused, his expression growing more serious. "After my ascension, those powerful enough would have sensed the ripples. They can likely trace my general location. It's only a matter of time before they descend to this realm. If they discover I married your mother without including them in the celebration..." He shook his head. "The fallout could be severe in more ways then one."
Diana nodded thoughtfully as she considered this. "I agree with Mother Empress's suggestion," she said. "We aren't in a hurry, and we should celebrate without hurting those close to us. I'll train hard to achieve a breakthrough to Cardinal Pink. What matters most is that we're together."
"Besides," she added, her voice softening with sincerity, "when we do hold our ceremonies, I want to stand before your friends and family as someone worthy of their respect—not just as the woman you chose, but as a woman who has earned her place by your side."
"I... I'm sorry, Diana," Orach began, his voice heavy with regret.
Diana quickly pressed a finger to his lips, silencing him. "Don't apologize," she said firmly. Her eyes determined as she continued, "Ever since I communicated with your mother's soul shard or should I say, mother's soul shard now, I made a vow. A vow to grow stronger, to stand proudly by your side against anyone who might oppose us." She took his hand in hers, her grip firm and reassuring. "So instead of apologies, what I need from you is training. Help me become the empress I need to be."
"Understood. I'll work on a training routine for both of you, starting tomorrow," replied Orach.
Diana and Rachel exchanged knowing looks before hurrying off to share the joyful news. Diana left to contact her best friend Barbara Minerva and her family in Themyscira, while Rachel rushed to respond to Barbara Gordon's numerous missed calls and messages. She needed to reassure her friend about her sudden disappearance from the library and share the exciting news about her father's return and proposal. Orach watched them go with a bemused expression, momentarily stunned by their swift departure. "I guess I'll visit Bruce," he murmured, his expression turning serious as he opened a ripple in space and stepped through it.