Ashborn Dimension welcomed Hela like it had always been hers.
The World Tree's leaves shimmered faintly as Alexander led her through the garden paths, sakura petals drifting softly around them.
"…This place," Hela murmured, looking around,
"feels alive."
Alexander smiled.
"It listens."
A Queen Meets the Household
They arrived at the mansion courtyard.
The moment Hela stepped in—
Every gaze turned toward her.
Alexander cleared his throat lightly.
"Hela," he said,
"meet everyone."
Introductions followed naturally:
Retsu Unohana, calm and terrifyingly gentle Morgan le Fay, smiling like she already knew everything Scáthach, assessing Hela like a battlefield Astoria Pendragon (Saber Alter), regal and composed Grayfia Lucifuge, polite and cool Jeanne d'Arc Alter, arms crossed but curious Ciel, floating quietly beside Alexander Infinity, radiant and amused Death, elegant and unreadable Galacta, bright-eyed and excited Sif, steadfast and respectful Lorelei, playful and observant Amora, smiling knowingly Aria, composed and sharp Bela, cheerful and inquisitive Aisha, dignified and warm
There was a brief pause.
Then—
Infinity stepped forward first and took Hela's hands.
"So," she said with a grin,
"you're the famous tsundere goddess."
"I am not—" Hela started.
Laughter erupted.
The tension shattered instantly.
Within minutes—
They were chatting.
Laughing.
Comparing stories.
Hela found herself surrounded—not by rivals—
But by family.
She glanced toward the mansion.
"…Where's Alexander?"
The Phoenix Cooks
Inside the kitchen—
Alexander was cooking.
Apron on.
Sleeves rolled up.
Fire danced gently under the pans—perfectly controlled Phoenix flames.
"…Peaceful," he muttered.
A knock came at the door.
He looked up.
"Oh. Right."
Lunch with the Allfather
Odin and Frigga arrived shortly after.
They sat together at the long table beneath the World Tree.
The food was simple—
But perfect.
Odin paused mid-bite.
"…This is better than Valhalla's feasts," he admitted reluctantly.
Frigga smiled warmly.
"I knew it."
Alexander shrugged.
"I had time to practice."
Hela watched quietly.
For once—
Her family sat together without tension.
A Decision Spanning Centuries
After lunch, Alexander leaned back, thoughtful.
"…Alright," he said.
Everyone turned toward him.
"I've decided something."
His voice was calm—but carried authority.
"Anyone who is not at Single Universe Level yet—"
He raised one finger.
"You get five hundred years."
Silence followed.
"I'll personally help you break through," Alexander continued.
"No rushing. No shortcuts that damage your foundation."
Most of them straightened immediately.
"We're ready," Sif said firmly.
Scáthach smirked.
"About time."
Jeanne cracked her knuckles.
"Hmph. Try to keep up."
Aria, Bela, and Aisha nodded with determination.
Retsu smiled calmly.
"I will support the healing process."
Grayfia adjusted her glasses.
"Efficiency will be optimal."
Amora laughed softly.
"This will be fun."
Those Who Declined
Alexander looked toward—
Morgan.
She smiled knowingly.
"I'll stay where I am," she said.
"My path is different."
Infinity and Death shook their heads.
"We've already reached our natural apex," Infinity said gently.
Death added softly,
"And forcing further ascent would disrupt balance."
Ciel bowed slightly.
"My role is guidance, not ascent."
Hela crossed her arms.
"I want to grow," she said firmly.
"But I'll do it walking beside you—not chasing levels."
Alexander nodded.
"That's fine."
The Companions Prepare
Alexander turned next to his companions.
"Darkrai. Ceruledge. Armarouge."
All three stepped forward.
Their eyes shone.
They bowed.
"We're ready, Master."
Alexander smiled faintly.
"Good."
The Long Road Begins
The sun rose and fell in Ashborn Dimension.
Training grounds were prepared.
Time-flow arrays activated.
Foundations laid carefully.
Five hundred years.
No war.
No chaos.
Just growth.
Alexander looked around at everyone—
His family.
His home.
"…Let's take our time," he said.
The Phoenix within him burned softly.
Not for conquest.
Not for fear.
But for those beside him.