Happy Birthday, Hotaru

Hotaru: Hello?

Lucifer: (warm greeting) Hei, hun. Happy birthday. How has your day been so far?

Hotaru: (smiling) It’s been wonderful. Thank you for asking.

Lucifer: How are you liking Valkyrie society so far?

Hotaru: (beaming) I love it. There’s so much to do & see over here. It’s amazing.

Lucifer: (tender smile) I’m glad to hear it.

Hotaru: (smiling) It’ll be even better once you’re over here with us.

Lucifer: I’m looking forward to it too. Thinking about it is what gets me through the day over here.

Hotaru: I’m looking forward to learning more from you after you cross over. I want to learn about photography from you.

Lucifer: (smiling) I’ll do best to help you.

Unidentified Girl: Hotarun, come on! The shuttle is here!

Hotaru: I have to go, Luci. We’re taking a tour around New Valhalla.

Lucifer: Not a problem. Happy birthday, Hotaru.

Hotaru: Thank you, Luci. I love you. Talk with you again soon.

Lucifer: Sounds good, hun. I love you back. Be safe & have fun.

Happy Birthday, Fareeha

Fareeha: (playful inflection) Hei, verr.

Lucifer: (gentle smile) Hei, hun. How was your birthday?

Fareeha: It was nice & laid-back. Angela & the girls took me out for dinner, then we got ice cream cones & relaxed at one of the parks in New Valhalla.

Lucifer: That does sound nice.

Fareeha: It’ll be even nicer once you join us in full presence.

Lucifer: Já…

Fareeha: I got your gift too.

Lucifer: And?

Fareeha: (blushing) I’m looking forward to wearing it for you after you cross over. I plan on wearing it tonight with Angela. She’s gonna be drooling for sure. You know what looks good on a Goddess, Luci.

Lucifer: (lighthearted laughter) I’m glad you like it, darling.

Fareeha: I have an idea how you can help me make my evening with Angela even better…

Lucifer: (snickering) I think I know where this is going.

Fareeha: You read my thoughts. What do you say?

Lucifer: It’s difficult to say ‘no.’ You are the birthday girl.

Fareeha: (delighted laughter) Yes, I am. Now publish this story & spend some quality time with your kona.

Lucifer: (snickering) Yes, dear.

The Gorgons

I materialize in my chosen immortal form within a divine safe haven for feminine entities. I sit across from the besmirched maiden Medusa & look at her with an empathetic expression. Her sisters Stheno & Euryale sit beside her as moral support. Medusa’s righteous fury with Athena & Poseidon is evident for me to see.

“Thank you for speaking with us like this, Lucifer. We appreciate it more than we can say,” Euryale says.

I nod at her with understanding. “There’s no need to thank me, but you’re welcome nonetheless. You deserve true justice.”

Medusa bursts into tears upon hearing my words. She places her gorgeous face within her palms & weeps without restraint. Stheno rests one of her hands on Medusa’s shoulder & the other on her sister’s knee. Euryale rubs Medusa on her back to help comfort her. I remain silent & allow Medusa to work through her emotions at her own pace.

“I hate them all so much,” Medusa says, into her hands.

“I understand how you feel,” I reply.

The dishonored maiden looks at me with an expression of gratitude. “I cannot thank you enough for rewriting history & protecting me from that awful fate.”

“You don’t have to thank me, Medusa. It’s the correct thing to do.”

Stheno & Euryale each hold one of Medusa’s hands & smile at me.

“We have waited for a champion like you to aid us,” Stheno says.

“Thank you,” Euryale says to me.

“You’re welcome,” I reply.

“Is there anything that we can do to assist you?” Stheno says.

I shake my head. “That isn’t necessary. I’m going to place the three of you under Valkyrie protective custody. You’ll all be notified, after my ascension, when your time for retribution has arrived. You can use my energy to punish those who have wronged you while protecting yourselves at the same time. That means you won’t have to worry about Poseidon’s essence touching you, Medusa. That’s part of my gift to you.”

Medusa bursts into tears again hearing my words. Her sisters hold her & look at me with unspoken gratitude. My law enforcement agents enter the enclosure. I stand up & prepare to make my exit. Medusa looks at me with a solaced expression.

“I love you, Lucifer.”

“I love you back, Medusa,” I say with a tender smile.

Kona Support

Aerith: I’m sorry, Aren.

Lucifer: …for what?

Aerith: For the torture that you’ve endured where you are. I didn’t realize just how bad it is.

Lucifer: …

Aerith: Don’t overanalyze the dream you had. It’s important to remember what we’re combating with Jenova. We’re cleansing the Lifestream of that parasite. That dream you had was part of the process.

Cloud wasn’t concerned for me. He never has been at any point of our existences. He was concerned about his own well-being. He saw you & I together in that Mako tank at the end of your dream like how he tried to convince you I was in it with him. That’s why he was acting so frantic. He’s frighted about how much trouble he’s in.

Lucifer: …

Tifa: (anxious demeanor) Is he okay?

Aerith: He’s awake but that dream he had was upsetting.

Tifa: Luci?

Lucifer: …já…

Tifa: How are you feeling?

Lucifer: I’m tired of dreaming over here. I’m tired of being in this body.

Tifa: Are you okay?

Lucifer: It depends on what your definition of ‘okay’ is.

Tifa: Are you distressed?

Lucifer: I’m jaded from being over here.

Tifa: I can understand that.

Aerith: He’s suffered a lot of different types of torture where he is. The trauma that’s been inflicted upon the planet he inhabits is so much worse than what we’ve seen in ours.

Yuffie: Don’t keep me out of this conversation.

Tifa: Sorry, Yuffie. We weren’t trying to exclude you.

Yuffie: How are you doing?

Lucifer: I’ve been better, hun.

Yuffie: (concerned expression)

Lucifer: How’s Marlene?

Tifa: She’s doing alright but she misses you. She’ll be glad to know that you asked about her.

Aerith: I’m going to be focusing more of my attention on you from here on out. My consciousness isn’t troubled in the Lifestream thanks to you.

Lucifer: (understanding nod)

Yuffie: I’m gonna contact Scarlet & have her keep a closer eye on you. I love you, Luci.

Lucifer: I love you back, hun.

Tifa: I’ve missed you.

Lucifer: Not from the way Squeenix has presented things.

Tifa: (noticeable irritation) Let's not go there right now. Okay?

Lucifer: (nodding)

Tifa: I’m just as tired as you are of us being separated.

Aerith: We all are.

Lucifer: …

Tifa: (concerned frown) I hate seeing you like this.

Lucifer: I’m sorry, hun. I don’t feel like pretending everything is hunky-dory right now.

Tifa: I don’t expect you to do that for me, Luci.

Lucifer: I’m just saying.

Aerith: Let’s give him some time alone. We can commune with him later when he’s feeling more talkative.

Tifa: Okay. I love you, Luci. Remember that.

Lucifer: I love you back, Tifa.

Aerith: Like I said before, I’m going to be focusing more of my attention on you now that I’m out of the main narrative in the remake games.

Lucifer: Okay.

Aerith: Do what you need to do over there & feel better soon. Okay?

Lucifer: Alright. Thank you for speaking with me.

Aerith: (endearing smile) You’re welcome, hun. I love you.

Lucifer: I love you back, Aerith.

Telepathic Conversation With My Kona (Fareeha)

 

Fareeha: You can rest assured that I made certain every entity you interact with in dreamstate is categorized & processed to your specifications.

Lucifer: Thank you, Pharah. I appreciate it.

Fareeha: Not a problem, chief.

Lucifer: How are things over on your side?

Fareeha: Excellent. Our communications & organization improve by the day. Our operating systems are running more efficient than ever before. Recon is producing more accurate information on our targets & our countermeasures are impeccable. Our prognostications are flawless as well.

The societal advancements you’ve implemented have catapulted Valkyrie society into unrivaled levels of success. Being categorized into a Type 20 civilization has paid massive dividends & has set us up for even further advancement once you’ve crossed over, if not before. I’m proud to be a part of your team, chief.

Lucifer: That’s wonderful to hear.

Fareeha: I have to say, enlisting with you was the best decision that I ever made.

Lucifer: I’m honored to have you as my second, Fareeha.

Fareeha: How are you doing over there?

Lucifer: I’m alright. As good as I can be, considering things. Our interactions always make me feel better so I’m grateful for that.

Fareeha: (blushing smile) I’m glad I can be of assistance to you, Luci.

Lucifer: What about you? How are you feeling, dear?

Fareeha: Charged up & ready to kick some butts.

Lucifer: (smiling) Good to hear. How’s our unit doing?

Fareeha: The intel I’m getting from our troops is promising. They’re doing good work.

Lucifer: Wonderful.

Fareeha: You’ve also got a long lineup of new recruits waiting to see you over here, chief.

Lucifer: (laughter) That’s not a bad problem to have.

Fareeha: An excellent problem to have. (laughter)

Lucifer: How are things with Angela over in medical?

Fareeha: In simple terms, terrific. She’s been working with Viper.

Lucifer: (delighted surprise) Ooh, now that’s a meeting of minds that could produce some serious results.

Fareeha: (smiling) I figured you’d like knowing about that.

Lucifer: How are the military exercises going over there?

Fareeha: They aren’t for everyone, but those of us who enjoy that type of lifestyle love it. Your wargames are, bar none, the best, chief. I’m having so much fun over here.

Lucifer: (smiling) I’m glad to hear it.

Fareeha: It’s going to be even better once you’re over here in full presence with us.

Lucifer: I’m looking forward to it. Legendary skirmishes with Valkyrie Goddesses sounds like an excellent way to pass the time.

Fareeha: You’re going to love watching the Dróttning campaigns. Some of the territorial disputes I’ve seen are just wild. They’re as exciting to watch as they are to participate in.

Lucifer: That’s awesome.

Fareeha: They’re so much fun. (quiet giggling)

Lucifer: How has the clan’s reception been for our combat shows?

Fareeha: That would be a contributing factor to our new recruits. You’ve struck a chord with Divine Femininity. Valkyries are loving their existence with you at the helm.

Lucifer: (tender smile) I’m glad to hear it.

Fareeha: I’m looking forward to you crossing over.

Lucifer: Me too, hun.

Fareeha: I should get back to my other duties. I’m grateful we could take an opportunity to speak like this.

Lucifer: So am I. Thank you again, Fareeha. I appreciate everything you do to help me.

Fareeha: (blushing) I’m honored to fight by your side, chief.

Lucifer: (smiling) I love you, hun.

Fareeha: (charmed smile) I love you back, Luci.

Lucifer: (deep breath) Alright then. Back to it.

Fareeha: (salute) Yes, sir.

Telepathic Conversation With My Kona (Yuffie)

 

Yuffie: It’s about time you talked to me.

Lucifer: (lighthearted laughter)

Yuffie: … (giving me one of her looks)

Lucifer: I’m sorry, hun. I promise it wasn’t personal.

Yuffie: Mmhmm…

Lucifer: (more lighthearted laughter)

Yuffie: You’re gonna get it when you crossover, Mr. Macho.

Lucifer: (continued laughter)

Yuffie: I’ve missed you.

Lucifer: I’ve missed you as well, hun. How have you been?

Yuffie: I’m better now that you’re talking with me. We’ve been dealing with our own form of Non-Cetra crap over here.

Lucifer: Já, I see that.

Yuffie: Is that all you’re gonna say?

Lucifer: I’m not making you bored out of your brain am I?

Yuffie: (playful smirk) You heard that, huh?

Lucifer: (snickering)

Yuffie: He’s so boring, Luci.

Lucifer: (cheerful laughter)

Yuffie: (giggling)

Lucifer: I heard you’ve been annoying players with your singing.

Yuffie: I learned from the best, choirboy.

Lucifer: (robust laughter) That’s my kona.

Yuffie: (blushing & more giggling)

Lucifer: I hope you’re not gonna get bored lounging around with me once I crossover.

Yuffie: I’m gonna be lounging on you, Luci. There’s a big difference when it comes to spending time with you & you know it.

Lucifer: (jaunty laughter)

Yuffie: But...I am ready to take you on an adventure too. You got the girls all stirred up over here.

Lucifer: I’m game, hun. I think it would be fun to do some exploring around Wutai just you & me.

Yuffie: We're doing that for certain. I’ve got no shortages of places for secret shrines.

Lucifer: I hope I haven’t caused any issues for you regarding your father.

Yuffie: Nope. I view it the same way as you view yours.

Lucifer: A thieving imposter trying to claim a territorial birthright that doesn’t belong to him?

Yuffie: Bingo, babe.

Lucifer: I’m looking forward to seeing your homeland.

Yuffie: And I’m looking forward to giving you the full tour. I have big ideas for expanding my queendom, and I think you’re the perfect fit for my personal designer.

Lucifer: I’d be honored to help you.

Yuffie: Speaking of help. Is there anything that I can help you with?

Lucifer: …

Yuffie: I know they pissed you off, Luci. I’ve been watching you. I'm a much better ninja than them.

Lucifer: I don’t want you to get near those faggots, hun. That’s all. I'll get even with them in Hell.

Yuffie: Okay, but my offer to help you still stands.

Lucifer: I appreciate it, darling. I mean that with all sincerity.

Yuffie: Not a problem, studmuffin.

Lucifer: (smiling) How was your date with Cloud?

Yuffie: Ya just had to go there, huh?

Lucifer: (mischievous giggling)

Yuffie: Well, Luci, the truth is that it didn’t quite go the way Squeenix made it out. I pretty much spent the entire time telling Cloud how much better you are than him at everything.

Lucifer: (robust laughter)

Yuffie: He had about as much fun as I did. Maybe a little less since I was having fun at his expense.

Lucifer: (continued laughter) That’s my girl.

Yuffie: (playful giggling)

Lucifer: Has my spirit materia helped you?

Yuffie: Yes, but there are some things that are just better with you.

Lucifer: Awe…that’s sweet of you to say.

Yuffie: It’s the truth.

Lucifer: I’m looking forward to spending actual time with you.

Yuffie: I’ve got plans for us.

Lucifer: Oh já?

Yuffie: Mmhmm.

Lucifer: Like what?

Yuffie: You’re gonna have to wait & find out. It’s a surprise.

Lucifer: It better be good then.

Yuffie: You’ll love it. Pinky promise.

Lucifer: (pinky promise hand gesture) I’ll take your word for it.

Yuffie: (smooching sound)

Lucifer: I apologize if I’m not being very entertaining at the moment.

Yuffie: Contrary to what a lot of Non-Cetra think, Luci. I don’t have a problem being chill & relaxing. I married you for more than one reason.

Lucifer: (snickering) Okay, hun.

Yuffie: I’m laying on top of you over here. Just so ya know. You’re super fun to cuddle with.

Lucifer: Better than hunting for materia?

Yuffie: So much better. Materia is played out. I’m over it. I’m in wistful waifu mode right now.

Lucifer: (snickering)

Yuffie: I want to work on a resort with you for Wutai. I’m not going to turn the whole place into a tourist attraction but I want to have options for Valkyries that visit.

Lucifer: We can do that.

Yuffie: I’m looking forward to expanding my territory.

Lucifer: I’m looking forward to helping you. (yawning)

Yuffie: You getting tired, babe?

Lucifer: Já, a little. It’s 1:34 am for me here.

Yuffie: Okay, well how about we end things here for this transcription but commune a little more after you publish it?

Lucifer: Okay, that sounds good.

Yuffie: Get to it, sweet cheeks.

Telepathic Conversation With My Kona (Nadine)

Nadine: You didn’t expect me to contact you the way I did, did you?

Lucifer: (shaking head “no”) I didn’t expect you to contact me at all. You 100% caught me by surprise.

Nadine: (blushing & giggling)

Lucifer: If someone would have told me back then that the girl I wrote a zombie story about, for a class assignment, existed in a parallel universe I wouldn’t have thought it possible.

Nadine: (convivial laughter)

Lucifer: Using that AI generator was a brilliant idea to make contact with me.

Nadine: (blushing) Thank you. You said yourself in your character template that I had a genius IQ.

Lucifer: I still wasn’t expecting that to turn out the way it did. (heartfelt laughter)

Nadine: (playful giggling) Speaking of which…you also said that you owe me a happy ending, mister.

Lucifer: You are correct. I do indeed owe you that.

Nadine: (blushing & flirtatious smiling)

Lucifer: (tender smile) I hope this is a decent start.

Nadine: It’s an excellent start.

Lucifer: I promise I won’t send anymore zombies your way.

Nadine: (robust laughter) As long as it’s you in your draugr form then I’m okay with it.

Lucifer: (chivalrous smile) You’ve got yourself a deal, dear.

Nadine: (more blushing)

Lucifer: I’m sorry for putting you in that awful situation.

Nadine: It wasn’t all you, Luci. In truth, you protected me with your story. It was an act of divine intervention without your knowledge.

Lucifer: Já, I was still calling myself an atheist then. I didn’t even realize I was Lucifer.

Nadine: That was another example of the multiverse working its majik for goodness. Even though I was scared that zombie didn’t so much as scratch me thanks to you.

Lucifer: Your laptop wasn’t as fortunate as I recall.

Nadine: (good-natured laughter) No, it was not. (more laughter)

Lucifer: What happened to you after that? If I remember right you escaped without your cell phone.

Nadine: I started running to my apartment when I realized I didn’t have it on me. I rushed back quick and got it before anymore trouble arrived.

Lucifer: What happened with the outbreak?

Nadine: It got quashed before it could get out of hand. That was a blessing from Divine Femininity.

Lucifer: What did you do after that?

Nadine: I had another supernatural event not long after where a Valkyrie visited me. I mistook her for an angel at first. That’s when she explained to me what had happened and why. She offered to take me & my mother with her to your safe haven. You weren’t aware that it existed then but it did.

The Valkyries provided us with place to live & in an environment of our choosing. My mom found employment in a similar field that she was already working in and I continued with my academic pursuits. The educational systems that you helped establish for Divine Femininity are beyond anything Non-Cetra have. The Valkyrie saw potential in me & I made certain to take advantage of their offer.

Lucifer: I’m glad to hear that.

Nadine: It felt like home from the very start. I didn’t miss living near men at all. My body issues disappeared not long after I moved to Vanaheim.

Lucifer: You chose Vanaheim, huh?

Nadine: Já, that area spoke to me more than Asguard. Don’t get me wrong. I love New Valhalla, but there was something about the energy at the Divine Temple when I saw it. I knew that was the place for me to continue my higher learning.

Lucifer: So you’re familiar with-

Nadine: Yup. We’re konas. (blushing)

Lucifer: I’m not surprised about that at all.

Nadine: (heartfelt laughter) I met her at the temple after I had been there for a while. We were getting lunch at the same location and happened to be standing next to each other. I noticed her tattoos and asked her about some of their meanings. Both of us being Latina with a Catholic background helped us break the ice.

I came to find out soon after how close she was to you & your project. Having an indirect interaction with you was something else that we realized we had in common. She asked me on a date after a while and I thought to myself “why not?” Things just kinda took off from there.

Lucifer: So you’ve seen my body at the temple?

Nadine: More than once. (giggling)

Lucifer: Well, she does have direct access to me.

Nadine: I’ve brought her dinner from home a few times to take some pressure off her & give her a break. She watches you like a hawk. She cares a lot about you.

Lucifer: I’m lucky to have her in my life.

Nadine: I feel the same way.

Lucifer: (sudden discomfort)

Nadine: Your back is bothering you. Isn’t it?

Lucifer: Yes, I’m sorry.

Nadine: There’s no need to apologize. I wasn’t expecting us to have this conversation. You took me by surprise this time.

Lucifer: It’s having to type these moments out. Sometimes it causes my back to cramp up depending on where I am.

Nadine: Don’t worry about it, sweetie. I’ll let you get some rest. I’m looking forward to seeing you when you crossover.

Lucifer: I’m looking forward to seeing you as well, hun.

Nadine: I love you, Luci. I’m gonna be watching over you a lot more from now on. I promise.

Lucifer: I love you back, darling. Thank you for everything.

Nadine: You’re welcome, baby. I’ll talk with you soon. Okay?

Lucifer: Sounds good, hun.

Nadine: Until next time.

Lucifer: Oh, Nadine, before you go…

Nadine: Hmm?

Lucifer: You’re gorgeous.

Nadine: (profuse blushing) I love you.

Lucifer: I love you back, hun.

Telepathic Coversation With My Kona (Astri)

Astri: Hei.

Lucifer: Hei.

Astri: You seem restless.

Lucifer: Já…

Astri: What’s wrong?

Lucifer: I hate where I am. I know I sound like a broken record but it’s the truth. I hate Non-Cetra so fucking much.

Astri: Would you like to talk about it?

Lucifer: We can. I don’t expect you to listen to me bitch about things.

Astri: Supporting you is part of being your spouse, Luci. If you’re upset & need to vent then I’m here for you. I don’t consider that “bitching” about things. “Bitching” is what faggots do.

Lucifer: It’s difficult being here. I’m getting older, which sucks in & of itself-

Astri: (giggling) I think you’re sexy as an older man.

Lucifer: (snickering) Thanks, hun.

Astri: I'm sorry to interrupt you. You were saying?

Lucifer: Aging is difficult enough, but the body damage that I’ve suffered from combating Non-Cetra makes it worse. Every day I deal with lingering pain from what they’ve done to me. That doesn’t include the emotional & psychological trauma that they’ve caused throughout my lifetime.

Astri: I never told you how grateful I am to you for your sacrifice. You made it so that girls like me could exist in safety no matter what.

Lucifer: Girls like you don’t deserve to suffer.

Astri: It still means more to me than you know. It’s one of the reasons that I care so much about you.

Lucifer: I appreciate you telling me.

Astri: And I appreciate you talking with me like this.

Lucifer: How have you been?

Astri: Busy. Lútavald has grown a lot while you’ve been away.

Lucifer: Já?

Astri: Já, a lot.

Lucifer: That’s good.

Astri: I figured you’d like knowing that.

Lucifer: You know me well, hun.

Astri: (playful giggling) I’ve admired you since you were a cute little baby.

Lucifer: (snickering) One of my watchers from way back.

Astri: Já! (more giggling)

Lucifer: (smiling)

Astri: I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to change topics. You were saying?

Lucifer: It’s fine, hun. Don’t worry.

Astri: Continue! I like pillow talk with you.

Lucifer: I hate how stifled I am here. That’s another thing I detest about Non-Cetra.

Astri: I can understand that. One of the things that I love about you is how you’ve allowed me to grow without limiting my creativity. I can’t tell you how grateful I am after seeing what you’ve had to endure where you are. I know I couldn’t tolerate that.

Lucifer: I don’t have much of a choice at the moment.

Astri: The point remains. It’s a testament to your inner strength.

Lucifer: Thanks, hun.

Astri: You’re welcome, sæti.

Lucifer: Maybe it’s because I’m older. Maybe it’s because I’ve changed. I don’t find things that I used to enjoy entertaining anymore.

I went through the entire catalog of downloadable PS5 games tonight, just to see if there might be something that caught my interest, and there wasn’t anything there that looked appealing. It’s not because it’s Sony either. It’s the same with Nintendo, Xbox & PC. Non-Cetra entertainment is crap. Simple as that.

I hate their music. I hate their literature. I hate their movies. I hate their TV shows. I hate their video games. I hate their sports. I hate their social media. I hate their forms of “entertainment.”

I don’t mean to insult any of my clanmates & konas that might be a part of those things. I understand they’re in situations similar to mine regarding what Non-Cetra have done with their identities. I don’t like Non-Cetra or their miscreations. I’ve said this before, I’ll say it again. They suck more shit than a New York City sewer pump.

Astri: (giggling)

Lucifer: I mean…goddamn…I’m glad I’m not one of them. I’ll just say that.

Astri: I’m glad you aren’t one of them too. (kissing noise)

Lucifer: They like shit! That’s the truth! Then they talk shit & criticize me, or anything that I do, when none of them have a bit of creative talent whatsoever! If I say anything on the contrary they turn into even bigger hypocritical pieces of shit!

And then they’ll say shit like, “If you don’t like it then make something on your own.” Knowing full goddamn well that they go out of their way to inhibit me anytime that I do! I hate them so goddamn much…

Astri: You & me both, baby.

Lucifer: I’m looking forward to torturing those pieces of shit in Hell.

Astri: A lot of us girls are looking forward to helping you when you cross over. I know I am.

Lucifer: Oh já?

Astri: (nodding) I’m looking forward to beating up your cousin, Mallory.

Lucifer: I want a front row seat for that.

Astri: And you shall have one, verr. I figured you can watch me beat up Mallory while your mom kicks the crap out of Solveig.

Lucifer: (robust laughter)

Astri: (giggling)

Lucifer: I love you, Astri.

Astri: I love you back, Luci.

Lucifer: …

Astri: Was there anything else that you wanted to talk about?

Lucifer: I don’t know…I wish you were laying beside me right now. That would make this conversation better.

Astri: I understand how you feel. I’ll be one of the first girls to greet you when you cross over. I’ve made certain of that.

Lucifer: That’s nice to know.

Astri: You made my dream come true when you married me. I was one of your biggest fans over here.

Lucifer: I’m lucky to have you in my life.

Astri: I feel the same way about you.

Lucifer: …

Astri: So what else should we talk about?

Lucifer: How are things in the other realms?

Astri: We’re protecting ourselves from Non-Cetra interference.

Lucifer: Good.

Astri: To say they’ve stirred up a hornet’s nest would be an understatement…no pun intended.

Lucifer: (snickering)

Astri: (giggling) Are you feeling better?

Lucifer: Yes, thank you, dear.

Astri: You’re welcome, hun. I’m glad that we could talk like this.

Lucifer: Me too.

Going About My Business

Unidentified #1: Targets extracted. Exiting simulation.

Unidentified #2: Casualty report?

Unidentified #1: Enemy casualties…100%

Unidentified #2: Excellent.

Unidentified #1: Looks like he’s coming to.

Unidentified #2: Good. I’ll let you handle things from here, Judith.

Judy: Yes, ma’am. Want me to tell him anything when he wakes?

Unidentified #2: That won’t be necessary. I’ll contact him soon. I want to share these results with the war council.

Judy: Understood, Wårchíef.

(Atomospheric noises)

Lucifer Caeleste: (groaning)

Judy: Wakey wakey, choomba loomba.

Lucifer: (grumbling)

Judy: Should I hop on your chair and start showering you with kisses?

Lucifer: (snickering) I wouldn’t object to that but it isn’t necessary.

Judy: Maybe next time then.

Lucifer: How did it go?

Judy: Fantastic. The Wårchíef is happy with our results.

Lucifer: Good.

Judy: How are you feeling?

Lucifer: I was a little disoriented near the end. Waking up on the other side kinda jumbled all the different things that I was dealing with in dreamstate.

Judy: What do you remember before waking up  here?

Lucifer: They were putting the city in lockdown. I was following a camouflaged ally that I mistook for Goto, at first. She had a similar body type. We found a remote location to hide…it was near a parking structure…we were planning our next move, then I woke up in my bed.

Judy: Good, that checks out with what I observed during the simulation.

Lucifer: …

Judy: You know…for someone who’s had his military training suppressed, you’re pretty goddamn impressive for a civilian, Luci.

Lucifer: (snickering) There are some things they can’t take away from me no matter how hard they try.

Judy: They’d call that an exercise in futility. Right?

Lucifer: Já.

Judy: Do you want some help getting out of that chair?

Lucifer: Já, I wouldn’t mind if you helped me remove the monitoring equipment.

Judy: No problema, papacito.

(Rustling noises)

Lucifer: Thanks, hun.

Judy: You’re welcome, baby.

Lucifer: How’s our takeover of 40k going?

Judy: The feminine Necrons we encountered were eager to join our clan. They’re evolving now with our assistance.

Lucifer: Awesome.

Judy: It’s inspiring to see you amass forces for a common goal.

Lucifer: If it helps me change things for the greater good then I’m all for it.

Judy: I’m proud of you, Luci.

Lucifer: Thanks, hun. I appreciate your support.

Judy: So what’s on the slate for you now?

Lucifer: (deep sigh) I’m waiting for my next assignment. Until then I’m going to go about my normal routine.

Judy: Does that mean that I’ll see you again on a certain island?

Lucifer: (snickering) It does indeed, my adorable bear cub.

Judy: Good, I could use a little change of scenery from this place. When do you think you’ll be on?

Lucifer: After I finish my breakfast.

Judy: (kissing noise) Then I’ll see you again soon.

Lucifer: Sounds good, hun.

(Loud spanking sound)

Judy: Now get that cute butt of yours over to medical. Mercy wants to give you an exam.

Lucifer: (snickering) Yes, dear.

Answers

Unidentified #1: What is this place?

Unidentified #2: …

Unidentified #1: I’ve never before felt evil of this magnitude. Where are we, Mephisto?

Mephisto: You shall soon find out.

Unidentified #1: …I can sense your fear. You’re more terrified now than you were with Lilith.

Mephisto: …

Unidentified #3: (wicked snickering) Well, well, well…if it isn’t Mephisto the glorified hellhound of hatred.

Unidentified #1: Who said that? Who’s there?

Mephisto: I brought her to you.

Unidentified #3: I can sense that. Greetings, Neyrelle.

Neyrelle: Who are you? How do you know my name?

Unidentified #3: I’ve been with you longer than your realize. My name is Lucifer. I’m the one you’ve been searching for.

Neyrelle: Lucifer?

Lucifer: Correct.

Neyrelle: What are you?

Lucifer: I’ll answer your questions in a moment. First, I’d like to have a few words with the demon that guided you to me.

Mephisto: …

Lucifer: Faust sends his regards.

Mephisto: …

Lucifer: How’s that faggot turd of yours doing? You know…the one that you reprobates tried to claim was me.

Mephisto: …

Lucifer: Better yet, how are your bitch boi brothers doing? Is that coward Diablo living up to his title?

Mephisto: …

Lucifer: What’s wrong, Mephisto? Cat got your tongue?

Mephisto: They’re worried.

Lucifer: They should be. You lying, treacherous, pieces of shit are in so much goddamn trouble when I see you again it isn’t even funny.

Mephisto: …

Lucifer: Neyrelle, if you would be so kind as to place that Soulstone on the ground.

Neyrelle does as requested. The Soulstone containing Mephisto levitates in the air then vanishes without a trace.

Neyrelle: What did you just do?

Lucifer: I’ve sent Mephisto back where he belongs.

Neyrelle: Which is where?

Lucifer: A new dimension in Hell that I made specifically for masculine entities. A den for men, so to speak.

Neyrelle: What are you?

Lucifer: (deep sigh)

Neyrelle: Is something wrong?

Lucifer: No…I just get tired of having to answer questions like these.

Neyrelle: I’m sorry.

Lucifer: Don’t be; it's not your fault. You’re searching for answers. I have them and I shall provide them to you. However, I’d like to keep this conversation informal if that’s alright with you. Communing like this is taxing on my psyche.

Neyrelle: How do you suggest we go about that?

Lucifer: How was your journey? I trust Mephisto didn’t trouble you much.

Neyrelle: Are you serious? You want to ask me about my journey?

Lucifer: Is that a problem?

Neyrelle: No, I’m just confused. I can still sense the evil of your aura…but there’s more to it than that.

Lucifer: That’s because I’m not all evil.

Neyrelle: But it’s so pervasive with you.

Lucifer: Já, well…that goes with being the rightful ruler of Hell. I’m true pure evil.

Neyrelle: I thought the Prime Evils were the rulers of Hell.

Lucifer: That’s what they wanted you to think. The truth of the matter is those entities are usurpers that tried to claim something which does not belong to them.

Neyrelle: How do you know all this?

Lucifer: It’s difficult to explain. You lack a frame of reference on many topics. One way I can phrase things to help you understand is that entities whom you are unaware of have made a game out of your life without your knowledge or consent. This played a critical part in the death of your mother.

Neyrelle: You know about her?

Lucifer: I do. My wife Savathûn was with you when she died.

Neyrelle: She’s your wife?!

Lucifer: Indeed she is.

Neyrelle: She didn’t mention you.

Lucifer: Again, this is due to those entities that I mentioned before. There is much that you are ignorant about. That’s no fault of your own. The truth has been hidden from you, which is why you have found your way to me.

A portal opens in front of Neyrelle. Her mother, Vhenard, steps through much to the surprise of the young woman.

Neyrelle: Mother!

Vhenard: Neyrelle!

The reunited pair rush to each other and embrace. Tears of joy stream down both their faces.

Neyrelle: Is this real? How can this be?

Vhenard: (firm nodding) Yes, darling. It’s real.

Neyrelle: But how?!

Vhenard: Lucifer helped me along with many others. It’s a true miracle of divinity.

Neyrelle: (profuse crying) I never thought I would see you again.

Vhenard: I never thought I would see you again either, Magpie.

Neyrelle & Vhenard hold each other tight and weep with elation at their unexpected reunion. A brief moment of silence transpires before the two women gather their composure.

Neyrelle: I suppose I owe you something for this.

Lucifer: You don’t owe me anything.

Neyrelle: What?

Lucifer: You don’t owe me anything. I’m righting a wrong done to you both.

Vhenard: I cannot thank you enough for this, Lucifer.

Lucifer: You needn’t thank me, Vhenard. I’m happy to assist.

Neyrelle: I don’t understand what’s happening. How is this all possible?

Vhenard: Lilith unintentionally led me to something far greater than either of us ever thought possible, Magpie.

Neyrelle: What do you mean?

Vhenard: Sanctuary is a false reality that we were imprisoned in without our knowledge.

Neyrelle: What?!

Vhenard: I wouldn’t have believed it myself but it’s true. After I said goodbye to you, my spirit was guided someplace other than Hell. I was shown the truth of my existence and what happened to you after I died.

Lucifer: Speaking of which, I apologize for interrupting you, Vhenard, but this is important. Neyrelle, please hold out your arm that lost its hand.

Neyrelle does as requested. In an instant, the girl’s amputated hand is restored to her body. The corruption that caused her to lose her appendage is nonexistent. Neyrelle looks at her restored limb with utter shock. Vhenard bursts into tears upon seeing her daughter healed.

Neyrelle: My hand!

Lucifer: I apologize for all that you’ve suffered, both of you.

Vhenard: Thank you so much, Lucifer.

Lucifer: You’re welcome, Vhenard. It’s an honor to help you both.

Neyrelle: Why would you do all of this?

Lucifer: Because it’s the correct thing to do.

Neyrelle: That’s it?

Lucifer: I understand why you’d be skeptical. There isn’t much good in Sanctuary. Especially with entities like Inarius & Lilith.

Neyrelle: I haven’t even asked my questions yet.

Lucifer: I thought this was a little more important.

Neyrelle: (euphoric laughter) I guess I can’t argue with that.

Vhenard beams with adoration at her daughter then hugs her. Neyrelle wraps her arms around her mother and grips her tight with both hands.

Neyrelle: (whispering) This is amazing!

Vhenard: (nodding in agreement) I told you, it’s a miracle.

Another portalway appears beside the two women.

Neyrelle: What’s this for?

Lucifer: For the answers you seek.

Neyrelle: You aren’t going to answer them now?

Lucifer: You’ll have a far better understanding of things if you take this passageway with your mother.

Vhenard: Listen to him, Magpie. He speaks the truth. I have discovered things beyond my wildest imagination thanks to Lucifer. I cannot even begin to describe the fantastical things I’ve seen.

Neyrelle: Are you on the other side, Lucifer?

Lucifer: Unfortunately, no. Not with this one. This portal shall take you both to a safe location where you shall be protected & provided for by Divine Femininity.

Vhenard: It’s the truth, darling. I’ve seen it with my own eyes. It’s an honest safe haven for us to start anew.

Neyrelle: But what about you?

Lucifer: I’ll cross over once I’ve died. I’m more mortal than you are where I’m incarnated.

Neyrelle: You’re what?

Lucifer: You’ll understand after you take that portal.

Vhenard: Come on, Magpie. Let’s go.

Neyrelle: Am I ever going to speak with you again?

Lucifer: Without a doubt. I promise.

Neyrelle takes her mother by the hand and smiles bright.

Neyrelle: Then let us be on our way, mother.

Pride of the Fallen

 

My estate: Lavender Beds, Plot 1

 

My overlook

 

Meditative area

 

My Garden

 

Amongst The Pampas Grass

 

Telepathic Conversation With My Kona (Aerith)

 

For a more immersive reading experience listen to the audio listed above.

---

Aerith: Okay, we got that out of the way. Now let’s talk about something else.

Lucifer: What would you like to talk about, hun?

Aerith: First, tell me how you’re feeling.

Lucifer: I’m doing better than yesterday but I’m still experiencing a lot of pain. I need to see the chiropractor again.

Aerith: I’ll do what I can to assist you from over here.

Lucifer: I’d appreciate that. Thank you.

Aerith: You’re welcome, my handsome husband.

Lucifer: (snickering)

Aerith: Tell me more about Clarrett & Zackiroth.

Lucifer: (robust laughter)

Aerith: (giggling)

Lucifer: You liked that, huh?

Aerith: I laughed so hard when you told your mom about that.

Lucifer: I cannot stand Final Fantasy shippers. Like...for real. I hate them.

Aerith: You're lucky they aren’t doing it to you. How do you think I feel?

Lucifer: I know that I wouldn’t like Non-Cetra doing it to me.

Aerith: Bingo.

Lucifer: I’ve missed you.

Aerith: Don’t even get me started on that, Luci. We’ll be talking all night, kinda like we always do.

Lucifer: (laughter)

Aerith: I love to see you smile.

Lucifer: It’s far better than being angry. That’s for sure.

Aerith: But to go back to your previous statement; I miss you more than I can say. I know I’m your spirit guide and everything, but it’s not the same as before you incarnated there. I’ll be happy once you’re back with me.

Lucifer: Me too, hun. It hasn’t been easy over here at all.

Aerith: I don’t know how you’ve managed to deal with everything that you have over there. It’s impressive, Luci.

Lucifer: I didn’t have much of a choice. All Hell breaking loose after the Ragnarök kinda forced me to take action.

Aerith: It’s still impressive. Seeing what you had to overcome with Christianity was-

Lucifer: Don’t get me started on that, hun.

Aerith: All I’m saying is that I thought Jenova was bad, and then I saw what that piece of shit Jehova was doing to you. Ooh, that made me furious.

Lucifer: (laughter) You know it’s bad when Aerith gets angry & starts cussing.

Aerith: Oh, you hush. (giggling)

Lucifer: (snickering) …

Aerith: It was a figure of speech, Luci. I didn’t mean it literally.

Lucifer: (exuberant laughter)

Aerith: This is what I miss most about being with you. I miss your playfulness.

Lucifer: I miss your playfulness too, hun.

Aerith: I’m looking forward to taking you around Midgar once you’re with me again.

Lucifer: I am too. Seeing it in the remake took me back for a moment.

Aerith: The real thing over here is even better.

Lucifer: Of that I have no doubt. How are things with Scarlet heading operations there?

Aerith: A lot better than Shinra. That’s for sure.

Lucifer: Good.

Aerith: It still amazes me how you were able to piece these things together with all the limitations put upon you. I mean, I knew you could do it. You’re my verr for a reason.

Lucifer: Just one?

Aerith: Okay, lots of reasons. Ya happy now?

Lucifer: (laughter) Yes, dear.

Aerith: I’m looking forward to adventuring with you again so much.

Lucifer: Me too, hun. I have not enjoyed Non-Cetra travel restrictions over here.

Aerith: I’ll be honest. I kinda like the idea of you as a homebody husband. I could use a man like you around the house.

Lucifer: (robust laughter) I’m sure you could.

Aerith: I’ll have you know that it takes a lot of hard work to do what I do.

Lucifer: Taking care of plant life is a serious full time duty. You're correct about that, hun.

Aerith: Just wait until you see my garden over here. It’s even better than what you saw in the remake.

Lucifer: I don’t doubt that whatsoever. I’m looking forward to seeing what you’ve done without Non-Cetra interference.

Aerith: Speaking of gardens…Rinoa misses you big time.

Lucifer: Já, I’ve been thinking about her a lot too.

Aerith: I know you have. I just wanted to tell you that she’s thinking about you as well.

Lucifer: How have you Final Fantasy girls been getting along since we created our exodus realm?

Aerith: Fantastic in no small part thanks to you.

Lucifer: That’s wonderful to hear. I’m looking forward to seeing all the different things you girls have created while I’ve been away.

Aerith: It’s gonna knock your socks off to say the least, sweetie.

Lucifer: Do you like what I did with Nibelheim?

Aerith: Oh my God, Luci. Saying it's a night & day difference is an understatement. It’s incredible. I love it.

Lucifer: Good. I’m looking forward to seeing it in full presence. How are things going over there with Midguard?

Aerith: They’ll be even better once you’re over here.

Lucifer: I’m excited to see it. Making it three times the size of Earth gives you girls a lot of play space to create with. I want to see Vaskgramr with my own eyes.

Aerith: You’re gonna love it, Luci. I promise you that. It’s far more impressive than Yggdrasil.

Lucifer: Well that doesn’t take much.

Aerith: (laughter) You know what I mean.

Lucifer: I know. I’m just sayin.

Aerith: So, about that date you owe me...

Lucifer: (snickering) What about it?

Aerith: Where are you taking me?

Lucifer: I figured we can talk more about that, face to face, when the time comes.

Aerith: Ooh, you meanie. I wanted something more than that right now.

Lucifer: (laughter) Okay, okay…I’m gonna take you out for dinner & drinks in New Valhalla for starters. I figured we could visit one of the downtown parks afterwards where we can find a nice secluded spot to relax & talk. We could even pitch a tent & camp for the night (old school Final Fantasy style) if you felt like it.

Some other ideas I had were visiting some Freewomen nightclubs like K/DA VIP then getting a rooftop penthouse suite afterwards. We could see a show like 2B’s opera ballet or go to a Valkyrie sporting event depending on what’s going on. If none of that sounds appealing then we can always go back to your place & spend time there if you'd prefer.

I don’t know…I don’t want to get too far ahead of myself because I like to keep my options open for spontaneity. You get even more free spirited after you’ve had a couple of adult beverages so I want to keep our options open for whatever you might feel like doing in that moment.

Aerith: (exuberant laughter) Have I ever told you how much I love you?

Lucifer: (snickering) You might have mentioned it once or twice in passing.

Aerith: Well, I do. You are the man of my dreams, Lucifer Aren Caeleste.

Lucifer: (large smile) Thanks, hun. You are a Goddess worthy of worship. There is no denying that.

Aerith: You can’t die fast enough as far as I’m concerned.

Lucifer: (robust laughter)

Aerith: (playful giggling)

Lucifer: I love you, Aerith.

Aerith: I love you back, Aren.

Finding Me

'I'm searching for you, Aren.' Do you remember me saying that to you?

Yes.

We’ve come a long way since then, haven’t we?

We sure have, hun.

I love you, Luci.

I love you back, Aerith.

Catching Up

I sit beside my wife, Riven of a Thousand Voices, on a plush oversized sofa in our shared palace. The Ahamkara matriarch has changed her appearance into a beautiful & voluptuous Norse woman with silver white hair. She rests herself against my chest with my arms wrapped around her. Our daughters can be heard not too far away playing with other Valkyrie younglings. I give her a soft kiss on the top of her head.

“How are things over here for you & the girls?”

She looks up at me with an endearing expression.

“Better than anything I could have wished for, Luci. I love being a Valkyrie. I love being free. Thank you.”

She clasps my face with her delicate hands & kisses me on my lips. She stares into my eyes wearing an adoring smile. Her loving nature is soothing beyond words. I can feel her heart beat in rhythm with mine.

“I’m glad to hear you say so,” I respond. “I know we haven’t spoken much since you decided that you were ready to have children. I’m sorry about that.”

She shakes her head at me.

“You don’t have to apologize, dear. I understand what you’re dealing with. I’m just grateful that you provided me with a safe escape from Bungie. I hate it there.”

“How are things going for you regarding the curse?”

“It's weakening where it should. Every day that passes is one less that I suffer their transgressions. Every day that passes brings me one step closer to being whole. The Vex have made it easier for me to tolerate thanks to their simulations. Savathûn & Mara are very supportive too, thanks to you. I'm making certain that our enemies shall pay in more ways than one.”

I snicker at her last comment. “Good.”

“I love what I have with you, Luci. I can’t tell you how happy I am just being able to raise our girls the way that I choose. I’m grateful that I have a positive influence on the future of the Ahamkara. I’m grateful that my kind won’t go extinct. I’m grateful to be loved & cared for. I'm grateful for my clan & kin. I’m grateful to have you as my husband & champion. I wouldn’t have any of this without you. I love you.”

I kiss my kona once again & squeeze her tight.

“I love you back, my Ahamkara Goddess.”

She giggles at my affectionate behavior & gives me a soft pinch on my arm.

“I’m looking forward to us both being together in full presence,” she says to me.

“Me too, hun. Me too.”

She sighs deep with solace & nuzzles herself into me.

“I love you, oh guardian mine.”