Judgment of the Endless (MarvelxDC)

Treat this as an Omake/OVA/Blooper.

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Darius and Harmony materialized in the polished marble hallways of the Agency, their arrival marked by a faint shimmer of golden light. The atmosphere here was serene, a stark contrast to the cosmic tension they had just left behind.

Harmony adjusted her multicolored gown, still glowing faintly from the journey, and let out a soft sigh as she surveyed her surroundings.

"Your part of the Agency is always so neat," she remarked, giving Darius a sideways glance.

"Gotta keep things classy, sis," Darius replied with a grin, smoothing the front of his flowing white robe. "And I think you'll like what's waiting for you."

The sound of childish giggles and soft chatter filtered into the hallway, and before Harmony could ask, the double doors swung open to reveal Verity, Aurama, Whimsy, and Zuri in the midst of an adorable endeavor. Verity, her small frame bouncing with excitement, was meticulously polishing Diana's armor while Aurama held up a golden bracer for inspection. Whimsy lounged lazily on Zuri's broad back, the panther purring softly as the Cheshire Cat flicked his tail in time with their playful chatter.

"Daddy!" Verity's voice rang out as she spotted Darius. In a heartbeat, she darted across the room and leapt into his arms. "You're back!"

Darius caught her effortlessly, spinning her around as she laughed. "Of course I'm back, little star. Did you miss me?"

"Always!" Verity declared before her eyes darted to Harmony. Her face lit up even brighter. "Auntie Harmony!"

Harmony barely had time to react before Verity hurled herself at her, arms wide. Laughing, Harmony scooped her up and peppered her face with kisses. "There's my favorite niece! I missed you too."

"Look, Auntie! I have a new cousin!" Verity squirmed out of Harmony's arms and grabbed Aurama's hand, tugging her forward. "This is Aurama! Isn't she amazing?"

Harmony knelt, her colorful gown pooling around her like liquid light. She studied Aurama with a kind smile. "I've heard so much about you. It's wonderful to finally meet you."

Aurama gave a shy smile, clutching her cousin's hand. "It's nice to meet you too, Aunt Harmony."

Verity beamed. "Come on, Aurama! Auntie Harmony's the best! Let's go play!"

With that, Verity tugged her cousin away, Harmony chuckling as the two darted off down the hall.

A Private Moment Between Lovers

Darius turned his attention to Diana, who stood at the far side of the room with a faint smirk. Her armor gleamed under the golden light, and her long raven hair cascaded down her back. She watched him with a teasing glint in her eyes.

"You've been busy," Darius said, his tone low as he crossed the room.

Diana tilted her head, her hands resting lightly on her hips. "Preparing for the battle to come. Someone has to."

Darius reached her, his hands immediately finding her waist as he pulled her close. "We'll be ready," he murmured, his voice dropping to a husky whisper. "But right now, I need you."

Before she could respond, he claimed her lips with his, the intensity of his kiss melting away her playful composure. Diana let out a soft sigh, her hands sliding up to tangle in his long white hair. Darius deepened the kiss, his hands roaming over the curves of her body, their closeness igniting a familiar fire between them.

"You're impossible," Diana managed to say between kisses, though the warmth in her voice betrayed her enjoyment.

"I take that as a compliment," Darius murmured against her skin, trailing kisses along her jaw and down her neck. He savored every moment, his lips worshiping her as though they had all the time in the world.

Diana's breath hitched as his hands moved lower, pulling her even closer. "Darius," she whispered, her voice heavy with emotion.

"I love you," he said simply, his blue-and-gold eyes locking with hers.

"And I love you," Diana replied, her voice soft yet steady, her hand cupping his cheek.

A Trip to Themyscira

Darius smiled, pressing a final kiss to her lips before pulling back just enough to meet her gaze. "You know, I've never been to Themyscira," he said casually, his tone laced with mischief.

Diana arched an eyebrow. "You want to visit my homeland now, of all times?"

"Why not? We deserve a little fun before the big fight." His grin widened. "Besides, I'd love to see the place that made you who you are."

Diana hesitated for a moment, then smiled. "Fine. But don't expect a warm welcome from the Amazons."

Darius laughed, wrapping an arm around her waist as he summoned a portal with a wave of his hand. "I think I'll manage. Let's go, my love."

-

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A shimmering portal appeared in the heart of Themyscira's grand throne room, a swirl of golden light that materialized two figures: Diana and Darius.

The sudden arrival startled Queen Hippolyta, who had been deep in conversation with an Amazonian warrior, and immediately put the palace guards on edge. The sound of spears being drawn echoed sharply through the chamber.

"Who dares—" one guard began, stepping forward, but stopped mid-sentence as she recognized the princess.

"Stand down," Hippolyta commanded, raising a regal hand. "It is my daughter."

The guards lowered their weapons but didn't relax entirely, their gazes fixed warily on Darius. His imposing presence, accentuated by his white robes adorned with golden accessories and his flowing white hair, was enough to give even the most seasoned warriors pause.

"Mother," Diana said warmly, stepping forward with a radiant smile. Her demeanor eased the tension in the room, and she quickly embraced Hippolyta, their reunion heartfelt and sincere.

"My daughter," Hippolyta replied, her voice a mix of joy and relief. "It has been too long." She cupped Diana's face, her sharp eyes scanning her daughter as if ensuring she was truly there.

Diana chuckled softly. "I've missed you, too, Mother."

Hippolyta's gaze shifted to Darius, who stood silently, his hands behind his back, watching the reunion with an amused expression. His blue-and-gold eyes seemed to glow faintly, a sign of the immense power he kept tightly controlled.

"And who is this?" Hippolyta asked, her tone curious but cautious.

Diana turned and gestured toward Darius. "Mother, this is Darius. My beloved."

Hippolyta's brows rose slightly, and a ripple of murmurs ran through the guards and attendants in the room. The Queen tilted her head, studying him with the piercing gaze of a ruler. "Beloved, you say?"

Darius stepped forward, his movements fluid and confident. He didn't kneel, nor did he bow, for he bowed to no one—a fact Diana had already prepared her mother for. Instead, he inclined his head respectfully.

"Queen Hippolyta," he said, his voice deep and resonant. "It is an honor to stand in your presence. I am Darius, also known as the Arbiter of Balance, the Hand of Judgment, and, more importantly, the man who adores your daughter."

The titles hung in the air, heavy with the weight of what they implied. The murmurs among the Amazons grew louder, but Hippolyta raised her hand once more, silencing them.

"You carry impressive titles," Hippolyta said, her tone neutral but her eyes sharp. "And yet, you stand here as a guest in my home."

"Titles mean little to me in matters of family," Darius replied smoothly, his lips curling into a faint smile. "I am here as Diana's partner, not as a judge or arbiter. My only wish is to honor her and, by extension, you."

Hippolyta regarded him for a long moment before a small smile graced her lips. "You speak well, Darius. And you carry yourself like one who has seen much. Very well. We shall welcome you as an honored guest."

Turning to the room, she raised her voice. "Prepare a feast! Tonight, we celebrate the return of our princess and her chosen."

The guards and attendants scattered to carry out her orders, leaving the Queen, Diana, and Darius with a semblance of privacy. Hippolyta gestured toward a nearby balcony, its archway framed by marble columns and overlooking Themyscira's breathtaking landscape of rolling hills, pristine beaches, and glittering waters.

"Come," she said. "We have much to discuss."

The trio stepped onto the balcony, the warm Mediterranean breeze carrying the scent of salt and blooming flowers.

Diana stood close to her mother, while Darius lingered a step behind, giving them space but remaining attentive.

"I had not expected to see you so soon," Hippolyta began, her voice softer now. "Though I am glad for it. Tell me, my daughter, what brings you home at this time?"

Diana hesitated briefly before answering. "There is a war brewing, Mother. A war unlike anything the world has seen."

Hippolyta's expression darkened. "What kind of war?"

Diana glanced at Darius, who nodded subtly, encouraging her to speak. "Thanos and Darkseid," she said. "Two beings of immense power, each with their own ambitions, have joined forces. They intend to conquer Earth and beyond."

Hippolyta's hands tightened on the marble railing, her knuckles turning white. "This is dire news indeed. And you intend to fight them?"

"Yes," Diana said firmly. "I cannot stand by and let the world fall. It is my duty as an Amazon and as a protector of mankind."

Hippolyta's gaze shifted to Darius. "And you? Will you fight alongside her?"

Darius smiled faintly. "My role is different. I observe, judge, and intervene only when necessary. But rest assured, Hippolyta, I will do everything in my power to ensure Diana's safety."

Hippolyta nodded slowly, her expression softening as she regarded her daughter. "You have always been strong-willed, my child. It seems you have found a partner who respects that strength."

Diana smiled, reaching out to take her mother's hand. "I have, Mother. He is everything I could have hoped for and more."

The Queen allowed herself a small smile before turning back to the view. "Tonight, we celebrate. But tomorrow, we prepare. If war is coming, Themyscira will not stand idle."

Darius stepped forward, his voice gentle but firm. "Themyscira's strength is legendary, Hippolyta. But know this, Diana is not alone. She has allies from all corners of existence who will fight to protect this world."

Hippolyta looked at him, her eyes searching his face. Finally, she nodded. "Then we shall see this battle through together."

The conversation shifted to lighter topics as they waited for the feast to begin. Hippolyta asked about their life together, and Diana shared stories of their adventures, her voice warm with affection.

Darius listened attentively, occasionally adding his own humorous anecdotes that even managed to draw a chuckle from the Queen.

By the time the sun began to set, painting the sky in hues of gold and crimson, the three of them had grown more at ease. Themyscira's bells rang out, signaling the start of the feast, and the trio made their way back inside, ready to share a night of celebration before the storm of war arrived.

[A little later]

The open-air banquet hall was alive with the warm glow of golden braziers, their flames flickering against the marble columns that framed the starry night sky. Rows of long tables were laden with an array of sumptuous dishes—roasted meats, freshly baked bread, exotic fruits, and intricate desserts, all arranged with meticulous care.

The air was filled with the mingling scents of spices and the sound of laughter, chatter, and clinking goblets.

Darius sat at the head table, flanked by Diana and Hippolyta. The Queen was resplendent in her ceremonial attire, her golden armor polished to perfection and her regal posture commanding the room.

Diana, seated beside Darius, was radiant, her blue gown flowing elegantly and her expression a mix of joy and pride.

The other Amazons filled the hall, their presence a tapestry of strength and beauty. Many cast curious glances at Darius, some appraising, others intrigued.

It was not every day that a man—let alone one as formidable as Darius—set foot on their sacred island.

The first course was served, and Darius couldn't help but marvel at the craftsmanship. He sampled a piece of roasted lamb, its flavors melting in his mouth, and nodded approvingly.

"This is exceptional," he said, directing his compliment to Hippolyta.

The Queen inclined her head graciously. "Our cooks are among the finest in the world, though their true talents lie in the battlefield."

Diana laughed, her eyes sparkling. "It's true. Many of our traditions revolve around combat, even in the most unexpected places."

As if on cue, the sound of swords clashing rang out, drawing everyone's attention to the open space in the center of the hall. A group of Amazons had stepped forward, their weapons gleaming as they prepared to perform a choreographed battle.

"This is one such tradition," Hippolyta explained. "Our dances tell stories of our history, our victories, and our unity."

The performance began with a rhythmic beat, drums echoing through the hall as the warriors moved with precision and grace. Their movements were fluid yet powerful, a blend of art and martial prowess.

Each swing of their swords and clash of their shields seemed to tell a story, drawing gasps and cheers from the audience.

As the performance continued, the conversation at the head table grew more animated.

"Did you have anything like this where you come from?" Hippolyta asked, her tone genuinely curious.

Darius chuckled, leaning back in his chair. "Not quite like this. Where I come from, battles are less artful and more direct and instant."

"And yet, you seem like someone who would appreciate strategy," the Queen noted, her keen gaze studying him.

"Oh, I do," Darius replied, taking a sip of wine. "But watching this, I realize there's something to be said for elegance in battle. It's inspiring."

Diana smirked. "I'd wager you're imagining how you'd fare in one of these performances."

He grinned, his gold eyes twinkling. "I wouldn't want to embarrass myself in front of such a skilled audience."

Hippolyta laughed, a rare and genuine sound. "Wise words. The Amazons are not easily impressed."

The table erupted in laughter, and the mood grew even lighter.

The next course was brought out—platters of grilled fish and roasted vegetables—and the conversation turned to stories of the past.

"Do you know," Hippolyta began, addressing Darius, "when Diana was a child, she once tried to sneak into a sparring match between the warriors and ended up challenging General Antiope herself?"

Darius raised an eyebrow, glancing at Diana. "Oh, this I have to hear."

Diana groaned, covering her face with one hand. "Mother, must you tell that story?"

Hippolyta ignored her, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "She was barely ten years old, and yet she marched onto the field with a wooden sword and demanded to fight. Antiope, amused, obliged her. Of course, Diana was swiftly disarmed."

"But not before I landed a hit!" Diana interjected, her voice defensive but tinged with amusement.

"A lucky hit," Hippolyta corrected, though her smile softened the words. "Still, Antiope was so impressed that she began training Diana personally."

Darius chuckled, reaching out to take Diana's hand. "It seems you've always had a fearless spirit."

She squeezed his hand, her expression warm. "And it seems you've always been charming."

The choreographed battle reached its climax, the warriors forming a dazzling display of synchronized movements that ended with a dramatic flourish. The hall erupted into applause, and the performers bowed, their faces glowing with pride.

Darius rose to his feet, clapping enthusiastically. "That was incredible! Truly a spectacle."

One of the performers, a tall Amazon with striking features, approached the head table and bowed. "Thank you, Arbiter," she said, addressing Darius with respect. "It was an honor to perform for you and the princess."

"The honor was mine," Darius replied with a gracious nod. "Your skill and artistry are unparalleled."

As the evening wore on, the feast grew even livelier. Goblets were refilled, and laughter rang out as stories were shared.

Diana leaned against Darius, her head resting on his shoulder, as they listened to Hippolyta recount tales of Themyscira's history.

"I must admit," Darius said at one point, "this is a welcome change of pace. With everything happening in the outside world, it's easy to forget the value of moments like this."

Hippolyta nodded solemnly. "That is why we cherish our traditions. They remind us of who we are, even in the face of chaos."

Diana smiled up at him. "And now you're a part of it."

Darius kissed her forehead, his voice soft but firm. "I wouldn't have it any other way."

As the feast wound down, Hippolyta rose from her seat, drawing the hall's attention. "Tonight, we celebrated the return of our beloved princess and welcomed a new ally into our fold. Let this night remind us of our strength, our unity, and our purpose. Tomorrow, we prepare for the challenges ahead, but tonight, we rejoice!"

The Amazons cheered, raising their goblets in unison. Darius joined in, lifting his glass and exchanging a look with Diana that spoke volumes.

The night ended with music and quiet conversation as the guests began to disperse. Darius and Diana lingered on the balcony, the cool night air brushing against their faces as they gazed out at the island's serene beauty.

"Thank you," Diana said softly, her hand intertwined with his.

"For what?" he asked, turning to her.

"For being here. For understanding this part of me."

He smiled, his expression tender. "There's nothing to thank me for, Diana. Wherever you are, that's where I want to be."

And with that, the night faded into a peaceful silence, a brief but precious respite before the storm that awaited them all.

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