The Prince of the Alliance

by SpideyWhities

Summary:

Teddy finds an orphaned child after an attack, and jumps at the chance to add a new member of the family

Chapter 1: Orphan

The royal transport ship landed in the cleared area of the destroyed city square. Even under the rule of the Empire’s protection, not every Skrull occupied world was safe from attack. A devastating blow from a rising warlord, a rebel Nova Corp member of all things. Managed to raise a small army and awaken a Kaiju-like creature to wreak havoc, nearly successful in taking the city but was stopped when the armada arrived. Retreated into the vast outskirts of space with a severe dent in their forces. The city attack was not as much of a dent by comparison, but it was still an attack on a peaceful world, with many casualties. One of which was a hospital, still standing but barely usable. Most of the inhabitants have been cleared out and relocated to the Empire’s throneworld. Except for one notable resident. 

Teddy walked towards the hospital doors in a hurry, wasting no time to get from the ship after docking to see the survivor he was called to see. It was in his best interest, but also in his heart, that he should be on the ground to survey the damage and take care of the needy. The people adore him for that, earning their respect which was demonstrated by the bowing as he walked by. He did his best to check up on each one, but Lauri-Ell was by his side, and urged him to continue forth to the hospital. She was right, he was called on an urgent matter. He entered the ruined hospital, looking more like a crime scene if anything. Bodies were still being taken from wreckage, Teddy and Laui-Ell walked by them with a look of despair on his face. It was all so pointless. 

“Your majesty, accuser, so glad you could finally make it” Came the voice of Kl’rt from behind Teddy, startling him as he was already too focused on the dead. 

“Ah- Hi, yes, apologies for the delay. Had another political meeting, I would rather be here” Teddy replied regretfully, trying to lift his own spirits up “This is the third attack this month, and the worst. Did the soldiers get a tracker on them?” 

“Affirmative, my liege” Kl’rt replied as he lead the Emperor and The Accuser through the hospital halls, what’s left of them “Our scouts are tracking them through… what did you call it?” 

“Lightspeed, Kl’rt. You should really watch those movies sometime” Teddy joked

“They are very good movies, I must say” Lauri-Ell added with a snicker. The Super Skrull just rolled his eyes.  

“I think not. There are more important matters than whatever Earth entertainment you like” he replied “But yes, we are tracking them through lightspeed. Hopefully this time we’ll acquire their leader’s location… But why I called you here, is because of one of the survivors… I think you’d be the best representative to speak to him” Teddy looked at him confused. 

“I mean, of course, anything. But why?” he asked, as they neared a room guarded by Alliance soldiers. 

“See for yourself” Kl’rt replied, leading Teddy inside. A room looking like a half-intact medical room, possibly the most secure and undamaged room in the facility. The steel plating walls were dented and dusty, and the benches were all clear of supplies. But most curious, was on the bed, sitting there was a small child. He distinctly a skrull, had the pointy elvish ears and wrinkled chin. But his skin was more of a teal or turquoise, and he had medium length black hair, like a Kree. Teddy had been around Skrull children to know he was no older than 4 or 5 years old. He was wearing the typical body-suit/onesie common with toddlers at that age. But most distressing, was he was getting bandaged and still being treated by Kree doctors. The boy looked up at Teddy, with a slightly agape jaw. He probably didn’t know who he was, maybe heard of, but he was certainly special looking in the eyes of the child. 

“Is that…” Lauri-Ell asked, beating Teddy to it by a second. Kl’rt nodded. 

“Yes, Accuser. It is a half-breed, like you my liege” he replied “It is not surprising that given our alliance, that romantic and sexual relationships between Kree and Skrulls would result in more, this is the first child in our new records” Teddy nodded, quick to accept the fact. But he needed to talk to him. He stepped forward, motioning to the doctors to keep going as they paused out of respect. He knelt down, subtly shrinking himself from his massive default height to be properly eye-level. 

“Hello there, little one. What’s your name?” Teddy asked him sweetly, giving the boy a warm smile. The boy looked at him shyly, kicking his feet as he built up the courage. 

“Z...Za’k… sir” the boy stuttered his answer in a very high-pitched, baby voice. 

“It’s an honour to meet you Za’k. My name is Emperor Marvel, but you can call me Teddy, if you want” Teddy replied warmly, trying to make the boy as comfortable as possible “I’m really sorry you had to go through this, it must’ve been really scary” 

“I-It was…” Za’k sobbed, cringing has healing cream was applied to his arm “I want… I want doctor Tah-wee” Teddy looked at Kl’rt, confused. 

“Doctor Tah-Ree was the administrator here, he looked after the boy, at least from what we gather from the records” Kl’rt answered “But unfortunately, he was killed in the attack. We have no sign of the boys real parents” Za’k looked up and was confused.

“What’s that mean?” he asked innocently, and it just broke Teddy’s heart. No child under his rule should have to go through something like this, ever. This sweet boy had his home destroyed and apparent father or father-figure taken too soon. Another thing that struck a chord deep down inside the young Emperor. He sighed, not ready to tell the child, but he can’t lie to him. 

“It means, you won’t be able to see Doctor Tah-Ree anymore… he died, like went to sleep but won’t wake up. I’m so sorry, Za’k” Teddy told him softly, hating every second of it. Especially when the boy was deep in thought, processing what was being said to him. He must’ve experienced it before, because something clicked and he bowed his head down and sobbed. Teddy felt tears well up in his eyes, and rubbed Za’k’s shoulders supportively. He turned to the advisers “What will happen to him?” Kl’rt shrugged. 

“Unclear, his existence is a milestone, but he may be sent into an orphanage, or what you Earthlings call foster care. Maybe into another orphanage at the throne world” he replied.  

“Poor thing. But should we really just let him drift away in the system?” Lauri-Ell asked, more emotionally invested than Kl’rt was in the matter. 

“What choice do we have, Accuser? His parents and family are unknown, possibly dead as well” the Super Skrull replied nonchalantly. Za’k twitched at the mention of that word again. Teddy looked at him again, a feeling of guilt washing over him. Not for the attack, but for possibly letting this poor boy float around. He’s lost parents, every one of them. He would never want himself to be left to a system that was still hesitant to embark on interracial relationships on a wide scale. He had to do something “We’ll find a suitable family for him, maybe one with a mixed race relationship to replicate his parents-” 

“I don’t know…”  Teddy interrupted him, his mind going towards another solution “Maybe… I could take him in?” Kl’rt looked at him deadpan, Lauri-Ell in shock, and they beckoned him over. Teddy sighed, half-regretting it but got up to join in a small whisper circle.  

“You can’t be serious” Kl’rt said louder than expected.

“Why not?” Teddy asked him with a shrug “I don’t see a problem” 

“Forgive me, my Emperor, but it’s unheard of for the ruling emperor to take on an adoption” Lauri-Ell replied, siding with the Super Skrull even if she sounded uncertain on the position. 

“Was it unheard of for a gay mixed race Earth-dweller to take the throne?” Teddy pointed out, smirking at the looks on his adviser’s faces as the point taken. 

“Yes, but your mother was Skrull Empress and your father the greatest hero among the Kree. It made sense to the people, this will not. He doesn’t have royal blood” Kl’rt replied, standing firm with his arms crossed. But it didn’t phase Teddy

“The idea of one family ruling over everything is almost considered outdated on Earth. If his parents are gone, with no family, there isn’t a reason not to” he fired back “Look, me and Billy were looking to have kids one day, likely surrogacy since I did consider royal blood a priority. But I’ve always been more in favour of adoption since it gets orphans another chance anyway” Kl’rt groaned while Lauri-Ell looked at least admirable to Teddy’s words. If he can at least get one on board “I’m not budging on this guys” 

“I admire your persistence, my liege” Lauir-Ell replied happily “I always thought you and the court wizard would make wonderful parents. Even if I’m not completely certain that this is the right method, I’ll do my best to support it” Teddy smiled and gave her a nod, both of them turning to Kl’rt. He was outnumbered, and he knew it. He sighed in defeat. 

“Why don’t you ask the child then?” he asked blankly, motioning back to Za’k who was trying to hide the fact he was trying to listen. The doctors were done patching him up, so he looked a lot more comfortable. Teddy nodded and went back over to Za’k, kneeling down to eye level again. 

“Hey, Za’k. How would you like it to come home with me?” he asked casually and warmly, not exactly sure how to go about the question beyond just asking straight up. Za’k looked at him confused, and uncertain. 

“Come home?” he asked back. Everything was still so strange, and must be moving too fast for him to keep up. 

“Yeah, just to see how you like it. I think you’d find it better than staying here” Teddy replied, still keeping his smile. Hopefully Za’k is able to warm up to it. He definitely thought about the proposition, looking around the room to make sure. It definitely wasn’t the condition it was before.   

“C-Can my toys come with me?” he asked innocently, which made Teddy chuckle.  

“Absolutely. Where’s your toys?” Za’k pointed to a steel box off to the side, likely containing the kids belongings “Ah I see. They can come with you for sure, whether it is you wanna go. It just can’t be here anymore, it’s not safe” Za’k kept on looking around the place, likely due to the conflict boiling in his little head. It must’ve been all he’s known, it would be hard to take him from it no matter what direction he goes in. He looked back at Teddy, eyes meeting and focusing on the other. Teddy was unsure what he was doing exactly, but he was willing to wait for an answer. Finally, Za’k stopped his staring, and nodded. 

“O-Ok…” he said nervously “I-I go…” Teddy grinned, and leaned in to give the child a warm hug. Awkward given the angle, but it was what Za’k needed in that moment most. He sure deserved it. 

“Thank you, Za’k” Teddy said as he pulled out of the hug, looking directly into Za’k’s blue eyes (though he would’ve sworn they were brown before) “I’ll try to live up to Doctor Tah-Ree’s example. I promise I will protect you and keep you safe and comfortable. You have nothing to worry about” Za’k weakly smiled back at him, obviously nervous but he got the feeling he was going to be ok. 

“He’s right, the Emperor is the most beloved ruler in recent memory. You’re in good hands” Laui-Ell added sweetly, a contrast to her tall and armoured appearance. 

“So you’re fully on board?” Kl’rt asked her, his turn to be confused. Laui-Ell shrugged. 

“Since I pledged my allegiance to my Emperor. And now, to my new prince” she replied, smiling. It felt so weird to Teddy, to have a prince. He wasn’t expecting it for a few more years. But regardless, he wanted it, it was right. There may have not been a proper discussion about it, particularly with the husband, but it was better than leaving the boy alone. Teddy stood up, helping Za’k off the bed and onto his feet. Like most toddlers, he was very very short. Didn’t help Teddy’s default height was closer to 7 ft than 6, so he had to remain shorter so he may be able to hold Za’k’s hand as he led him to the door. 

“Come, I can’t wait to show you your new home. Lauri, bring the toy box” Teddy told him softly, before motioning to one of the guards and commander Av-Rom outside the room “Commander, have any of Za’k’s belongings you find brought to the Throneworld. Also send word to the Throneworld to begin renovations to the Royal Apartments. Oh, and ensure that we have a memorial for Doctor Tah-Ree when reconstruction is complete” 

“Will be done, my liege” the Kree commander said with a bow, typing it away on his pad as Teddy passed.  Flanked by Lauri-Ell carrying the box with no problem whatsoever. As they passed the soldiers and workers, they did get looks of confusion as to what the emperor was doing with a blue Skrull boy. But Teddy was already used to worse when he held his husband’s hand in public on Earth. Plus, he did outrank them, which helped. Za’k looked up at Teddy with curiosity as they walked out of the hospital. Too focused on him over the hospital.  

“Y-You’re really tall” he commented innocently, also taking note of his turquoise hand being dwarfed by a massive green one “And b-big” Teddy looked down at him and chuckled. 

“Want a boost?” he asked, but without waiting for an answer, he picked Za’k up and sat him above his hip, practically eye-level. In doing so, he grew back to his default taller size as Za’k giggled away “Now you’re just as tall as me” 

“I like it, heehee” the boy replied, finally coming out of his shell, quicker than expected. Enjoying the ride to the royal transport ship, to take him to his new home. And to begin his new life with his new family… 

 

---

“Well that was fun…” Billy sighed upon leaving the gateway to Krakoa, out to the hangar of the Alliance palace. He was flanked by Mur-G’nn, the other main sorcerer of the Alliance. While she had been there longer than Billy, she gladly offered to be his own adviser on the mystical matters. Despite being known now as the Scarlet Sorcerer, a mantle passed down by his soul-mother, as well as consort to the Alliance, he still wasn’t exactly the most experienced with running anything. 

“That Earth woman’s tongue is as big and sharp as her blade, why are we putting such efforts into Limbo, Scarlet Sorcerer?” Mur-G’nn replied as the pair of them made their way to a set of hallways, presumably to the royal quarters or the magic wing. 

“Because, Mur, Illyana is a... mutual friend, I guess. If she’s queen, we’re gonna need another ally” Billy explained with a shrug “It sounded convincing in my head” Mur-G’nn still wasn’t phased at all, judging by her tired eyes. 

“Again, your majesty, allying with… demons? Of all things?” she replied in her usual cool yet subtly judgemental tone. 

“Would you rather her or Doom?” Billy quipped back, chuckling to himself as they continued down the metal hall, passing guards and various rooms. A maze of a palace, Billy still hasn’t gotten it memorized considering he usually teleports.  

“Would I rather be strangled slowly or stabbed a thousand times?” The Kree-Skrull sorceress scoffed in monotone. Billy snickered at that, nodding at the point made.

“Touche. You’re funny, Mur” He replied in the midst of a giggle, just as they passed over a hall to meet at the door of the Alliance’s Mystic Spire. But Billy was merely just dropping off Mur-G’nn, he had other plans “Sorry to leave you, but I gotta go home, I miss my hubbie. Keep an eye out for anything more remote magic users, yeah?” Mur-G’nn nodded and bowed shallowly. 

“Very well, your majesty. Give the Emperor my best regards” she said as she lifted her head up.

“I always do, thanks. Take care” Billy replied, waving goodbye as Mur-G’nn entered through the door, where she’ll most likely spend the night as she usually does. Billy still doesn’t know where she even sleeps. But he didn’t need to worry about that, he was more concerned about where he and his husband were gonna sleep. If they can help it. 

Teleporting was such a convenient power, low-key Billy’s favourite among the lightning, flying and reality warping. Especially after upgrading to this spectacular palace he now calls home, it’s bigger than Avengers Mansion. He feels kinda bad Roberto got them their first apartment that feels rather small to go back to, whenever he and Teddy wanna go visit Billy’s family or their friends. But, Teddy didn’t choose this, and Billy definitely chose Teddy. He made sure to teleport right outside the front door of the Royal Apartment. The closest thing to a sense of Earth familiarity in this intergalactic castle. It was like a full modern earth mansion inside an even bigger intergalactic mansion. One that Billy can just open by himself, and come home to his husband after a long day, like back on Earth. 

He was tempted to say “Honey, I’m home”, but he kinda wanted to sneak this time. Opening the door to the very lavish, but still very Earth-bound home, Billy sighed in relief of being back in the comfort zone. Putting his feet up on something was always the best feeling after work, if saving the universe counts as work. Teddy wasn’t seen on the bottom floor, but the lights were definitely on and he can hear noises from upstairs, so he definitely was here. Billy was just taking off his cape, when he heard the jingle of his cat approach, with a string of hungry meows. 

“Mister Mistoffelees, how are you?” Billy greeted happily, petting the black and whote fluffy kitty as he rubbed his chin up against Billy’s bent knee “Did dad not feed you? Better change that…” Billy waved his hand around, and a small blue portal opened above Mister Mistoffelees’ empty food bowl. The portal was inside the container of cat biscuits that poured on down to fill the bowl. Mister Mistoffelees was already off to feast, ditching his rub session with his dad. “I see how it is, always your first love, hey?” the cat did not respond, too busy munching down. Billy sighed, and magiced his Scarlet Sorcerer costume off to be teleported to the laundry basket. Just in some X-Men briefs (designed by the amazing Jumbo Carnation), he slowly sneaked his way up the staircase to follow his husband's muffled voice. He was in their master bedroom, the light was on that could be seen through the crack in the door. Billy sure hoped he would be in the mood for some cuddling, maybe even more. He made it to the door, trying to think of how he was gonna do his entrance. A quick slam open? A slow seductive reveal? Probably the latter, Teddy likes it slow like that. Putting a hand on the door to slowly push forward, Billy grinned in excitement. 

“Helloooo- AGHHHHH!!” Billy closed the door again, blushing red from embarrassment. He quickly magiced some sweats and one of Teddy’s massive shirts onto him, before opening the door again, despite the red in his face. Teddy was grinning at his husband’s flushed face, while the blue kid he was with was just confused, looking at the newcomer with curiosity. 

“It’s ok, baby, I covered his eyes so he wouldn’t see you in your underwear” Teddy chuckled, ruffling the kid’s hair which only raised even more questions for Billy “But now that you’re home… I have some news” Billy snorted. 

“I’ll say. If it explains why there’s a Skrull youngling on our bed with you, then I’m all ears” he replied, hopefully not too bitchy, he has a tone deafness. Teddy didn’t seem to detect any, but Billy saw a hint of nervousness on his face.  

“Uh, he’s a Kree-Skrull hybrid actually. Like me, the Knights of Infinite and original Dorrek Supreme” Teddy corrected, standing up. He towered over Billy at his default size, one Billy absolutely loves, but Teddy took notice of the imposing effect and shrank a bit to be more approachable “And he’s just been left without a home, so I agreed to look after him for a bit…. If that’s alright with you?” Billy looked into his husband’s eyes, and to the kid’s, and back to Teddy’s. He was shook, and unsure of what to do. They both knew Billy wouldn’t say no, but it wasn’t what Billy was worried about. He shrugged.

“I mean, yeah it is. Just… can we talk first?” He said, motioning to the kid on the bed. Teddy tensed a little bit, but nodded.  

“Sure. Zack, why don’t you go downstairs and pet the fluffy kitty?” He asked the kid enthusiastically, who immediately grinned in return. 

“Okie, Teddy!” he replied in a sorta sing-song voice, hopping off the bed and running to the door, but not before bowing to Billy “N-Nice to meet you, s-sir” he smiled at Billy, before running away from the door, calling out to the kitty. Billy wasn’t sure how to respond even with the kid gone, Teddy was smiling. He must’ve told the kid about him.

“Mister Mistoffelees likes him” Teddy explained with a chuckle. 

“He’ll like anyone who gives him massages and food” Billy replied with his own snicker, trying to not sound bitchy again “So… are we fostering now or something?” 

“Don’t tell me you have a problem with that?” Teddy said with a sigh, crossing his massive arms defensively. Billy did not want an argument, and neither did Teddy. They hated them. 

“No, no… just, sorta random that’s all. Hot on the heels of a really chaotic meeting with Illyana Rasputin and my soul-mother” Billy replied in a slight panic, which did settle Teddy “Did we have the kid talk?” Teddy had to think for a second. If anyone was gonna remember, it was him. It’s usually the next step after marriage.

“Not recently, I’m not sure why” he said softly “You wanna have it now?” 

“Nah, there’s not much point. I can tell you really want them, after everything you’ve lost...” Billy saw Teddy flinch a little, he didn’t mean to hit that nerve but it was true. He could feel Teddy’s need to fill the void his mothers left “...And I like kids a lot, I will definitely go along with any adoption or surrogacy you want to do. So, totally down with kids, hon… if they’re not a pain that is” Billy chuckled, trying to make light of the discussion, and he did get a smile out of Teddy at least. 

“Zack isn’t as far as I can tell. He’s just shy and unsure, not surprising considering his city is in ruins…and everyone he knew is gone...” he replied sadly, feeling the weight of the damage that city was dealing with “But it doesn’t matter if he’s a pain or not Billy, we need to take it upon ourselves to give him a good home. There’s not a lot of… people like me around” Billy smiled and walked up to his husband, rubbing his cheek with a soft hand.

“There’ll never be anyone quite like you, hon” he said softly, lifting up onto his tippy-toes to give him a light kiss on the lips, Teddy happily returning. A reminder they were both in this together even after it ended “But I get your point. We’ll just… see how it goes I guess” Teddy chuckled lightly. 

“You’ll be fine, I know it. We’ll work it out together. I promise” he replied fondly, rubbing the back of Billy’s neck with his big green hands. The claws doing good at scratching that itch, making his husband hum happily.

“Just the way I like it” Billy said quietly, briefly closing his eyes to embrace the closeness “Always knew you’d be a good dad someday, it’s what made me ok with the idea even if I didn’t acknowledge it in a talk like this” 

“Can’t be that much harder than ruling an entire Empire” Teddy joked with a shrug, making Billy snicker. 

“Don’t jinx it” he replied, as the massage continued. Sensing the opportunity, Billy stepped in closer to be right up against his husband’s thick muscular chest “But… in regards to my… first entrance… Hope we still have time to do the fun stuff, just me and you” Teddy smiled and moved his free hand down against Billy’s slim waist. 

“Oh honey, just looking at you gets me in the mood, I’ll always find time” Teddy assured in a super low voice, just as one big hand went down to grip Billy’s ass. 

“Ah- heh, took the words right out of my mouth” Billy moaned, leaning up to kiss Teddy again. If they were gonna have kids, he was gonna use as much privacy as he can. 

“Good, saves up space in there for later” Teddy joked while rubbing Billy’s lips with a thumb, before regretfully pulling away.  “But… after the kid’s asleep, ok?” Billy groaned, his worst fears coming true. The tent in both their pants shouldn’t have to suffer denial “I promise, ok? I wanna see what you had in mind before” Billy couldn’t help but pout and sigh. 

“Okay…” he replied, collapsing onto the bed in a huff, at least enjoying not using his legs, even if he expected to not be able to walk by now anyway. Teddy chuckled at his husband’s frustration, but offered him a hand out. 

“Wanna go meet him?” Teddy asked happily, just excited to get this fostercare underway. Billy lifted his head up, and caught Teddy’s contagious smile. That man just has that power over him, he couldn’t describe it. Even if Teddy would say the exact same about him, he wouldn’t believe it. Teddy’s smile and enthusiasm is enough to get Billy’s feet on the ground. 

“Absolutely” He took his hand, and was pulled up from the bed and onto his feet. Billy adjusted himself on the way to the door, giggling at a sudden swat on his ass. Teddy shrugged and smirked, before growing back to his default size, and putting a strong arm around his husband’s shoulders. Both of them sighed happily, as the new hopeful parents made their way from the bedroom, and further into Zak’s life. 

Chapter 2: To Earth

Summary:

Billy takes Zack to Earth, while Teddy tries to persuade his council

Returning to Earth was always so surreal. It’s like going back to your old hometown, if that hometown was an entire planet. But it was always nice to get away from all the space politics and go back to some familiarity. Even for a little bit. 

Unfortunately Teddy had to stay put, trying to figure out how to properly break the news he’s looking after an orphan Kree-Skrull, and he plans on adopting if things go well. In the meantime, Billy took it upon himself to try and get to know the kid better. And what better way than to teleport to Earth for some shopping and sightseeing. 

The previous night, Billy and Teddy played and talked with Zack in an effort to get to know him, but he was still very shy. And Teddy had put the thought in his head that he may be able to live there permanently if he wants. Zack’s still thinking, but he seems to be warming up. He held on close to Billy’s hand as they made their way through Times Square. Billy hated asking it, but he told Zack to put on a disguise, so he took the form of a kid he saw around the same age. He looked pretty much the same as he did normally. Just with pink-ish skin, shrunken ears, a “normal” round chin, black hair parted in the middle, and some random shirts and shorts. All from a Google image. 

They had just done a TON of shopping, mostly clothes. Shirts, pants, shorts, superhero socks and briefs, jackets, hoodies, short-tails, pull-ups, sneakers, flip-flops, watches, scarves and even a very fancy robe. Everything he could need, besides the clothes they sell at the Throneworld. But to tell the truth, they weren’t as cute as Earth’s stuff. But what Billy really needed was a frappe, and a carrier. Thank you McDonalds and pocket dimension safes. Now Billy was hands free to take the kiddo around to more fun stuff, like the Lego and Disney store. They both got lost in them, but somehow managing to come out without buying the whole store. Zack really loved Lego it seemed, especially Star Wars. Must remind him of home, judging by the confusion on his face when he looked at all the Lego City sets. 

With the Lego sets and action figures all purchased and stored with the clothes in a pocket dimension, Billy held Zack’s hand as they walked back to Times Square. Zack kept looking in the windows, touching his chin and cheeks. 

“Don’t worry, buddy, we’ll be back home in no time, then you can be yourself again” he told him encouragingly, but his voice was riddled with regret. The one thing Teddy hated when coming back to Earth was he had to put on his own disguise, no longer massively big and green that he considers to be himself. Same story with Zack it seems, except tiny and blue. 

“Why do I have to look like this, Biwwy?” Zack asked him, trying to keep up with Billy’s fast walking. 

“Again, because a lot of us humans are still very weird about non-humans, it’s mostly a safety precaution” Billy replied regretfully, making his way over to a pizza stand. It was about lunchtime anyway, and his stomach was beginning to rumble “Hello, one Hawaiian pizza for me please, aaaand…” Who knows what Zack would like, Earth doesn’t have a lot of the same stuff “Closest would be… and one cheese pizza too, please” 

“Sure. Would you and your son like a drink with that?” the server asked politely, unknowingly making Billy shook at that fact. 

“Uh, yes please. Just a bottle of water” Billy replied, shaking himself out as the pizza’s and water were placed onto the bench, awaiting payment “Oh right, payment… Hold on, lemme find my wallet-“ 

“No need, it’s on the house” the server replied suddenly “Enjoy your meal, your majesty” the server shifted her ears to reveal green Skrull ears, before giving them a wink. Both Billy and Zack were shocked, though Zack was clearly more excited about it.

“Woah! So cool!” he exclaimed, not taking his eyes off her as he was handed his pizza. Billy gave the server one last nod before leading Danny over to the chairs. 

“Guess the Skrulls are undercover everywhere” Billy said, sighing happily at being able to sit down. He sure wished he could just float around like he does back home “So… I was thinking we could go see some of my friends, or see my family” Zack nodded happily, as he ate into his pizza, smiling “Good?” Zack nodded again, beaming as he took another bite “Woah, slow down there bud. Take it easy” Billy chuckled, fetching a napkin and wiped the sauce from around Zack’s mouth “All better” Zack smiled and continued eating. It was only a slice, so they were both almost done pretty quick. Billy was off staring around the place. All the screens and all the people. Not too different from the Throneworld, just a lot more green. Granted, he hasn’t been around down there as much, not like this. Prince consort really takes away from the normal people's life. That and the screens showing different superheroes from around the city. Some people keep looking up and pointing at various points in time, shouting: 

“LOOK! NOVA!!” 

“SPIDER-MAN!! THE HOODIE ONE!!” 

“YOU MEAN SCARLET SPIDER- OH THERE’S THE ORIGINAL WITH THE HUMAN TORCH!!” 

“WOAH! CAPTAIN MARVEL!!” 

“Emperor’s better” Billy muttered to himself with a snicker, before taking his phone out to take a few pics, especially of Zack. Something to show Teddy later. 

“Biwwyyy” Zack asked him out of the blue 

“Zaaaaack” Billy imitated teasingly “What is it bud?” 

“That wady said I was your- your son… am I?” he asked shyly, and thankfully Billy was asking himself the same thing all day. Cause it sure did feel like it already. He shrugged. 

“That’s up to you. You can be lega- officially, our son, me and Teddy’s. I-If you want that is, that’s what we were discussing last night” he explained, hopefully not confusing him too much “Just it’s very complicated, lots of meetings and such” 

“But I wike you, I wike Teddyyy, so… can’t I?” he asked while chewing on his last piece of pizza, clearly confused why things can’t just happen. 

“Don’t talk with your mouthful, bud” Billy told him, wiping his mouth clean again, before leaning back in his chair. He couldn’t help but smile fondly that the kid likes the idea “We’ll just see how we go. It’s very complicated… But I’m… happy you think so. Let’s just hope things go well…. ” 

 

---

 

Teddy Kaplan-Altman is superhero. Usually that involves going out in capes and tights to fight evil-doers with a magic sword. It’s great fun, and for noble causes. He’s also an Emperor. And unfortunately, that more often than not involves being cooped up with his inner council, still in capes and tights, but with a lot less sword-waving and more law making. Not great fun, but for a noble cause. Like trying to adopt an orphan as his son. 

“I beg your pardon, your majesty, but did you say-“ 

“That I’m going to adopt my heir? Yes Talos, yes I did” Teddy cut in casually, leaning back in his chair. The entire council chamber was looking at him with a whole range of reactions. Mostly disbelief, some disapproval, and a few satisfied. Only positive ones really mattered. Teddy wished Billy was here with him, he kept accidentally looking at the empty seat next to him for support. Hopefully he’s having a good time on Earth with Zack. 

“My liege, the child is not of your bloodline, he can’t be the heir-” 

“Says who, J’Bahzz? Sorry, but he’s an orphan with no other living relatives, and if he’s adopted he’ll be fully under the Kaplan-Altman name. Everything BUT blood” Teddy cut in again, which he hated but he was surrounded by traditionalists “I really don’t see the problem, there is nothing that can be a threat to my rule or the integrity of the empire by fully adopting a 4 year old orphan who’s the last of his bloodline” The council members took it into consideration, thinking it over heavily. Teddy looked at them all, mentally drained already from arguing “I’ve said what I’ve had to say, you can try to refute it, but I want to adopt him. He needs it” You could hear a pin drop the following few seconds. No one wanting to be the first to speak up. Lauri-Ell sensed the uncertainty, and coughed for attention. 

“He’s right my lords. In this specific case, there isn’t a threat to the throne” she said, standing next to Teddy affirmatively “I think it’d be good for the empire to have a clear future” Teddy nodded approvingly, as did some of the council.  

“Thank you, Lauri-Ell. Anyone else?” Teddy asked, eyes peering around the room. K’kyy raised her hand “Yes, K’kyy?” 

“Well, you do make good points, your majesty. It’s just, it’s never been done before” she explained. Teddy shrugged again. 

“And just as I’ve said to Lauri-Ell and Kl’rt, this entire Empyre hasn’t been done before. My marriage hadn’t been done before. We’re breaking grounds here, this is an obvious next step” he replied firmly, trying not to sound aggressive. He hates that, but some people had no problem. 

“You only have the throne because of your bloodline, who your parents were” Kal-Torr said, trying to overpower Teddy’s firm position “If we let an adopted child be crown prince, the integrity WILL be questioned when his time comes” Council members whispered to each other following that comment. 

“No offence, but they kinda need to change their views on adopted children, as do you” Teddy replied, standing up to hold ground, towering over the sitting members “He will be my son. We’re going to break new ground. I mean, how else did you think this was going to go? I’m a man married to another man” 

“Surrogacy. And some male Skrulls shift their organs into reproductive ones…” Mur-G’nn suggested quietly

“I’m not really into the second one sorry, and surrogacy might be down the track. But I’ve always been more for adoption anyway” Teddy replied “Gives a lonely child a home and less overpopulation. Simple” The council muttered in unison. 

“Noble reasons. But what will the people think of him in the now?” Talos asked cautiously. Teddy just smiled. 

“Hopefully they think he’s just as cute as me and Billy sees him” he answered nonchalantly “I’ll deliver this same speech if I have to. But in the meantime, do I have your approval, reluctant or otherwise?” Teddy waited for the council to respond. He was nervous, he couldn’t lie about that. There was no telling with these people. Lauri-Ell raised her hand, followed by Kl’rt. With both the Accuser and Super Skrull on board, the rest seemed to slowly come around like a wave. Arms were raised all around the table, leading back to Teddy’s relieved face “Good, then send the papers” 

 

---

 

Because the subway was too grimy and intense, Billy opted to teleport to his parents house. Or at least behind the toilets of the nearby park. Don’t wanna raise too much suspicion in exchange for a faster travel time. Zack was fascinated by the other kids at the park, who were playing on the small playground. 

“Daaaa- Biwwyyy, I wanna pway!” he whined while Billy kept pulling him to the park entrance. He did catch that slip up, and was somewhat giddy. 

“Sorry kiddo, grandparents first” Billy replied “There’s plenty of fun stuff there, my brothers have some games you might like” 

“Okayyy…” Zack sighed, and held close to Billy. 

“You know, and I know, that you can call me whatever you want, right?” Billy added “I know it’s only been a day, but I get the sense, or the feeling, that you’ve been waiting to call someone your dad” Zack looked up at him as he walked, surprised “You can stick with Billy if you want, at least till it’s official. But if you wanna call be daddy or dada or something, no wrong time to start” the baby was still so confused. 

“Soooo, I can?” Zack asked him, to which Billy nodded. 

“Yes, if you want. No judge” he replied happily. Zack was still thinking, which seemed to be too much for the kiddo to wrap his head around. 

“But… feel funny… about it” He grunted, massaging his temple, which really was concerning. 

“You feel funny?” Billy asked him, now his turn to be confused. 

“Yeah… wike, I don’t knows, I wanna, but you said… not offishish-ally” Zack tried to explain, in his adorable little stutter at big words. Sounded like he thinks its surreal to him. Teddy had explained he only knew some doctor as the closest thing to a parent. But did he refer to that guy as his father? Billy figured he’d ask while there was some distance to go. 

“Yeah? What about that doctor guy? Was he like your daddy?” Zack thought about this, but shook his head.

“No-no. He said… he said one day I would” he replied, before looking up and smiled. Billy had to have guessed he found them, or at least he hoped. The kid has really grown on him. But, it’s always the beginning stuff which was hard. 

“We’re here” Billy said as they made it to the front steps, passing multiple very similar houses all in a row. But Billy knows this house off by heart, he could pick it out from orbit. He knocked on the door, and noticed Zack was hiding behind his legs. He really was a shy boy. He heard footsteps, and the door opened to reveal a familiar stink eye. 

“Oh! It’s Willy” teased the skinny teenage boy with glasses and messy brown hair. Billy just snorted and rolled his eyes. 

“Whatev, EliASS. You gonna let me in or do I have to teleport?” he replied, and his brother sighed, before slowly opening the door. 

“Yes, your majesty” Ellias teased in a deadpan, before taking notice of the small child huddled behind Billy “Wait! What is tha-“ 

“Who was that, Elllias?” Came the voice of Rebecca Kaplan, turning around the corner from the hall. She had to readjust her glasses before her face lit up “BILLY! Oh my word, what a surprise!” She couldn’t get over to him fast enough for a crushing hug. 

“Ack- Good to see you too, mom!” Billy replied amidst the grip. Ellias was still brain-broken from the kid Billy was with, that Rebecca surprisingly hadn’t taken notice of. She was too busy greeting her son to take notice of everything else. She finally pulled out to cup his cheeks “Mom, you saw me a couple weeks ago, it hasn’t been forever-“

“Oh shush, Billy, it would be a day and I’d still give you a hug. I worry about you, up there in space and all that” Rebecca interrupted affectionately, before looking behind him. Except she still didn’t see Zack, she wasn’t looking for him exactly “Where’s my amazing son-in-law?” 

“Busy being Emperor and all that, unfortunately” Billy replied, heart racing fast but decided to just go for it “But I have someone else…” He patted Zack’s hair from behind him, and attempted to reveal him. Zack stayed behind Billy’s legs, but the attention was brought on him at last “This is Zack… your potentially official first ever grandson” 

“What the hell-“ Ellias cussed

“Shush, Elias, language around a baby” Rebecca silenced before kneeling down on the floor to near Zack’s eye-level “He’s adorable, much like you when you were that age. Strange, I do see some of him there” 

“I’m sure it’s just coincidence, like the hair” Billy replied, shrugging “He’s half-Kree, Half-Skrull like Teddy. Orphanage was leveled after an attack which took his carer, so now we’re looking after him. And hopefully, when we get back home, Teddy will have the adoption proceedings either done or on their way” 

“So you didn’t… make that?” Elias asked bluntly, which earned a slight slap to the stomach from his mother “Owww, I didn’t mean it! Everyone knows Billy bottoms- OW” Billy’s turn to smack him in the stomach “Tommy’s words not mine”

“Yeah, but still you’re not supposed to know that…” Billy grunted, rubbing his eyes in slight embarrassment “Nor our mother especially”

“Tommy is being a bad influence on you and your brother. He comes over every so often from Krakena or what’s-it-called” Rebecca sighed, before standing up to rub the back of her son’s neck “Regardless, I’m so, so happy for you boys. I knew you’d make great parents someday” 

“I’d learn from the best” Billy replied warmly. 

“Well, at least I know for sure I did it right” Rebecca chuckled, before closing the door “Now, tea time. Ellias, mind showing your nephew some entertainment?” 

“Sure, mom. I live to serve” Elias grumbled, making his way to the living room, slumping on the couch. He switched channels to some kids show, and groaned, immediately going to his phone. 

“What’s with him?” Billy whispered to his mother, who sighed regretfully, looking at one of her youngest boys with sadness. 

“Low self-esteem mainly, depression. Twin brother is a school sports star. The older brother  is an all powerful superhero sorcerer who’s also the king of space” she explained, using her therapist voice. But when it was spelled out to him, it was clear as day how his brother would feel that. Like he had felt at some point in his life “He’s having trouble trying to live up to the expectations in his head” Billy nodded, biting his lip. He had to do something. 

“I’ll talk to him later, try and help. But first…” Billy motioned Zack to follow, who was very reluctant to leave Billy “Hey, bud. That boy there is family, he’ll keep you company, okay? He won’t bite… hopefully” Zack looked very unsure, looking between the two “but I, or daddy needs to talk with grandma, kay? I’ll be right nearby, you know where I am” 

“Pwomise?” Zack asked in a whimper, holding out his pinky finger

“Promise” Billy replied, taking Zack’s pinky with his own and shaking on it. Zack awkwardly shuffled into the living room, taking one sneaky step at a time till he sat on the opposite end of the couch. He side eyed Elias anxiously “He’s a great kid” Billy sighed happily 

“I can tell. Though I was having a good time before I know realise I’m a grandma now” Rebecca joked sarcastically, before leading Billy into the kitchen. It had not changed a bit either, except a new fridge, and a new coffee machine that Rebecca activated, fit for the conversation “Dad and Elliot will be home soon after Elliot’s diving practice. We have a lot to catch up on it seems” 

Chapter 3: Too Close To Home

Summary:

Billy faces off against a new threat on Earth

It was sometime after the meeting, Teddy sitting on his throne as more advisers and generals detailed the whereabouts of the attackers of the Skrull city where Zack was staying, and the results of the siege to take them. He was feeling tired, wanting to just nap but this was more important. 

“With the leader in custody, we’ve avenged the citizens of the attack of a few days ago. But still remains the rebels from both our allied factions” Kl’rt explained as the holographic screens brought up images of Skrulls and Kree, disloyal to the Alliance. Constant images of battle and sightings around the known universe. Teddy, while tired, was leaning forward watching them with interest “The Kree Septatists supplied the Nova Rebellion with weapons used in the attack, and now looking for new allies it seems” 

“The Supreme Intelligence no longer can match our forces without help. Same for the Sepratist Skrulls” Lauri-Ell added, focusing on the Skrulls section on the screens, displaying various sightings of imposters “We’ve reported more spy activity from them, attempting to trick enemies and allies alike to turn against us” 

“Have we blown the whistle on them?” Teddy asked, to which Lauri-Ell nodded. 

“Yes. But while the Shi-ar are vigilant and know we mean no harm, people like Thanos would only need any excuse to open fire” she replied, making Teddy shudder from the thought. No one wants him anywhere. 

“Unless we can shapeshift into sexy skeletons, we best keep him far away” Teddy joked, leaning back again into his throne for comfort, just hoping it was over “Thank you, excellencies. You’ve done well, but keep the word out for the saboteurs to everyone. What about Earth?” The group of advisers all looked nervous, looking at each other. Teddy did in fact notice it, and shared that same expression. 

“Well, my lord. We were just getting to that…” Talos started, but was cut off by Kl’rt bitterly. 

“Earth, or rather the hub of America is seemingly trying to cut its ties with us” the Super Skrull explained to a shocked Teddy “Either from it’s pathetic new leadership or the Sepratist Skrull’s doing. Our spies are still working on the exact cause, but a couple of our own we’ve lost contact” Teddy’s brow narrowed as his thoughts raged with confusion, concern and just frustration. 

“Keep trying to contact them to see what’s happening there. It’s just so out of nowhere, after I’ve done my best to establish a great working relationship” he replied, rubbing his temple. He was going to need a full massage later after all this. 

“And you have, my liege. But it’s a two way street, as you say” Lauri-Ell said sympathetically, before taking a sigh “And there’s the rumours of a… taskforce, operating to locate extraterrestrial life living on Earth to detain… or worse. It’s the main suspicion of what happened to our agents” If Teddy wasn’t anxious before, he was now. His mind was automatically going to Billy and Zack, filled with fear. 

“Taskforce? You sure?” he asked, not hiding the fear in him. Talos shook his head. 

“No, they’re just rumours and speculation” the Skrull reaffirmed, hoping to ease the Emperor’s mind. 

“If it’s true, though. Earth would be asking for an intervention, or war” Kl’rt growled, before taking a look up at Teddy’s panicked face, automatically knowing what it was about “Didn’t you say your soon-to-be son and husband are there right now?” Teddy nodded slowly

“Yes. I don’t know if I have the right to be worried. Billy can take care of himself and Zack. But still…” he replied, a little calmer, before immediately rushing to pull his phone from his belt pocket, typing furiously “I’ll notify him, a head’s up” He pressed send, and wrote again. Sweat was brewing in his hair and forehead, but his thoughts kept telling him. 

It’s gonna be ok. It’s Billy, remember?

 

---

Billy’s phone buzzed as the text message shot through from lightyears away. Billy was still listening to one of his mom’s recent stories, something about meeting Quicksilver for the first time. He was laughing along, while hearing Zack and Elias mutter to themselves from the living room, when he got a look of concern wash over him. 

HONEY: Hey baby, be careful out there. My advisers said something about a secret service trying to evict aliens from Earth or something. 
HONEY: I know you can handle yourself but please be careful ❤️

“Billy? What’s wrong?” Rebecca asked him, equally concerned without even reading the text. Billy shook his head. 

“I’m not sure, Teddy’s saying something about-“

The sound of window shattering immediately stopped the conversation. Elias gasped loudly that could be heard from the dining room. Billy was up and running as fast as he could. As soon as he reached the door, he saw the hole in the window, and the gas bomb that was on the coffee table. 

“COVER YOUR MOUTHS!” Billy yelled at Elias and Zack, who immediately did just that. Billy gathered red magical energy into his hands and started to chant “containthegas-containthegas-containthegas-containthegas-containthegas!” A red bubble surrounded the bomb, and sucked in every particle of the gas in the room. With another hand movement, Billy evaporated the bubble into simply sparkles. Zack’s eyes were wide with wonder as he looked at the sparkling. 

“Is everyone all right?” Rebecca asked them as she appeared behind Billy, full of concern and confusement “What was that?” 

“A gas grenade. And I think they have something to do with it” Billy motioned to the black van across the road outside, with what appears to be a group of armed soldiers in black armour piling out the back. “Stay hidden, I’ll deal with this. If Kate or Eli’s in the area, call them” Billy told Rebecca, who nodded and led her boys to the back rooms. Billy made his way to the front door. His family could trust he can handle it. Billy opened the door and stepped outside to meet the squad. “Afternoon guys! What appears to be the problem?” None of the men said anything, hard to read behind a black visor on their helmets. A soldier stepped out from the van, similarly dressed, but with gold plating to accompany the black. He marched his way over to be in the middle of the squad, staring down Billy intimidatingly. 

“You have an alien within your household, a shapeshifting Skrull. Let us in and we’ll take care of it for you” the gold soldier explained in a stern commanding voice “If you stand by, we promise no harm to you or your family. We protect people of Earth” 

“Sorry, but who gave you the right?” Billy asked the squad, confused as to who they were. The insignia didn’t ring any bells. 

“The government of this proud nation. Aliens have no place here, we’re here to take them by any means necessary” the commander replied, and Billy noticed the other soldiers activate their guns. He was nervous, he didn’t know what they were capable of. Or even if they knew who he was. 

“Uh, guys? Pretty sure a ton of superheroes are aliens, you got some big balls on you to take them on'' Billy said jokingly, trying to bide time in case Kate or Eli show up. The commander looked like he was chuckling. 

“Oh, don’t worry about them, boy. We’ll get to them sooner or later. We’re dealing with the low levels right now, like that child you’re protecting” he replied “Why?” 

“Because my husband is an alien. And that’s our son” Billy snarled, feeling the magical energy channeling through his body, ready to strike at any moment “And you have no idea who you just pissed off” 

“Disgusting inbreeder. Take him out” the commander ordered, but none of the soldiers could react in time before a blast of red energy repulsed them backwards. Billy summoned his tight Scarlet Sorcerer costume onto his body to replace his civilian clothes, ready for battle. His red crown was glowing with his eyes in anger, hurling bolts of red lightning at the first soldiers who got up. “SHIT! ITS AN AVENGER, CALL IN THE BIG GUNS!” The commander yelled into his comm, as Billy went to work on the rest of the guards. Creating shields around him to deflect bullets with one hand, bolts of lightning with the other. He floated up above the squirmish, his red cape flowing to make himself look bigger. He noticed another black van with the insignia come screeching down the street, followed by another. Billy shot a lightning bolt at the closest one’s front wheels, sending it sideways. He did his best to shield the surrounding houses and gardens from damage. Luckily the street was empty. 

The vans still poured out more soldiers, dodging the lightning bolts and blasts Billy threw at them. They were good, competent even. But not enough for the grand wizard of the Alliance. A wave of red magical energy powered up within Billy, and he repulsed the squadrons backwards. 

“I faced Dormmamu, Knull, Kang, Mother and still won. What do you have- OOF!” He was hit with a big energy blast from the sky, sending to the ground. Why he shouldn’t quip in battle. Billy looked up and saw a group of 6 Iron Man, or Doombot looking armour land on the road. They were black with glowing yellow lines, staring intensely at him. 

“We have these. Gift from Stark, a prototype to take down the superpowered threats like yourself” the commander sneered “Too bad it’s just you. Have at it boys” Billy got up to prepare himself for the upcoming attack. Red shields at the ready. The armour aimed their hand repulsors, but immediately halted as three arrows landed in the ground in front of them. The arrows exploded in an electrical field, stunning the armour. Billy looked up to the roof above and grinned. 

“Figured you could use some backup, your majesty” Kate Bishop greeted with more arrows armed and at the ready. Beside her was Eli and Nate, also decked out in their Patriot and Iron Lad gear. 

“I’ll take the knockoffs, you guys handle the soldiers” Nate ordered firing up his jets and activating something on his console. The armour turned their gaze towards Nate who took off into the sky “Hey, fellow tin-head’s! Follow me!” The group of armour took off into the sky to chase Nate out of sight. Leaving the rest of the former Young Avengers to deal with the men. 

“You boys take them while I get my upgrade” the commander ordered, and the swarm of soldiers charged. Kate stood on the high ground on the roof, as Eli jumped down to join Billy. Having being pumped up with actual super soldier serum, he was more than ready to take the soldiers down. 

“I’ll take the left side, you the right” Eli suggested, readying his vibranium shield. Billy nodded and resumed floating. He fired an electric chain to separate the squads of soldiers, allowing an easier divide for Eli to beat down. Even without flashier powers, he still was going through them all like butter. At the same time, Kate was firing multiple trick arrows in rapid succession, crippling any who got caught in its way. Billy had no time to fanboy over his friends, he went back to work of zapping and blasting the soldiers with relative ease. Some kept rolling away and dodging. But they only needed to be hit once or twice to go down. There was no sign of the commander from before, but they will soon find out after. 

It took about 5 minutes before the last soldier fell, Kate had barely enough arrows left. The last one, struggling to be of any challenge, was swiftly taken out when Nate dropped a ball of broken armour pieces on top of him, landing with a smug smile. 

“That’s hot” Eli joked, with Kate and Billy rolling their eyes. Without Teddy there, Nate and Eli took up the position of the couple that flirts after battle. 

“Thanks babe. You guys did well” Nate replied, looking around the street littered with unconscious soldiers. But Billy wasn’t satisfied, looking around for the gold plated armour. 

“Still gotta find the commander, somewhere, I don’t know where he-“ 

“Here” The commander revealed himself on the steps of the Kaplan home. But most horrifying, he had Zack in a headlock, a handgun pointed at his head. Zack was struggling, and crying. 

“Da-! Biwwy! Help!” he wailed, but the commander tightened his grip to make him shush. Billy was fuming. 

“Don’t come any closer, or move any muscle, or this invasive creature dies” “We’re walking out of here, we’re taking him back to where he should be, where we can keep an eye on him” 

“You won’t, I won’t let you take my son, you son of a bitch” Billy growled, resisting the urge to strike a lightning bolt down to kill this monster. 

“You think this thing is your son? You’re deluded, you degenerate inbreeding witch. I can barely stomach your lifestyle choices, but wasn’t your own kind good enough for you?” The commander snarled back, pushing the gun against the boys head “The WASPS will gladly see this world rid of spies like them. And their supporters…” The commander turned his gun away from Zack’s head and towards Billy “I’m a sharp shot, you’ll be dead before a spell leaves your mouth” 

“Noooo!” Zack struggled, trying to fight, and the commander gripped tighter. 

“Quiet, brat! You’re gonna watch your, heh- father, die” the commander snarled, activating his pistol. Billy braced himself for a nonverbal shield, not the best time to test his timing. He looked at Zack with his own tears in his eyes. Zack was wailing and struggling against the tight grip. But something caught Billy’s eye. Zack, he was glowing purple. 

“Don’t hurt my daddy!!!” Zack screamed, and a purple magical pulse erupted from his little body. The commander didn’t have time to react as he was sent flying into the wall, crumpling to the ground. But Billy only cared about Zack, who himself fainted, just from the sheer power he just displayed. He managed to catch him before he hit his head, whimpering slightly. Billy patted his head softly. 

“His readings are stable, just tired” Nat analysed through his helmet “I suggest you get your… son, home soon to rest” Billy nodded, taking off his cape to wrap Zack in for comfort. Kate put her hand on Billy’s shoulder and smiled. 

“He’s adorable. You two are gonna make great dads” she said, giving him a side hug. Eli did the same, a comforting moment between old friends. Billy sighed happily, enjoying the moment. 

The moment being broken by a sudden gunshot, a deep yelp. They turned to see the commander, grasping his bleeding hand in pain, his pistol on the ground. Rebecca Kaplan was above the steps to the house, carrying one of the pistols the commander had on him, the one he was threatening Zack with. Now it was turned against him. Everyone took position to fight again. 

“Leave! Now! Do not EVER touch my family again, or the next one is between the eyes” Rebecca yelled, aiming the gun true to her word. The commander staggered, looking around at his defeated squads. He sighed, and activated his comm. 

“We’re outgunned, retreat” he growled. And in a second, like magic, the entire army vanished in a yellow blink. Nate scanned the area. 

“Teleported, I can track them if you wa-“ 

“Keep a pin on them, but we gotta take a breather” Billy interrupted breathlessly. Probably the first he’d taken in what felt like half an hour. He turned to his mother and walked up the steps to be hugged “Mom, thank you” 

“No need, I would’ve killed him if he hurt you” Rebecca replied, tightening her hug but not too tight to not disturb Zack “He ran out of the room, he was worried about you.I couldn’t stop him” 

“What matters is he’s safe” Billy replied softly, before looking around at the empty street, where the bodies of soldiers were once piled up “Who… who were those guys?” 

“Haven’t been keeping up with us Earthling’s news, your highness?” Kate joked, much to Billy’s cringe. 

“They’re called WASPS, a government squadron tasked with removing aliens from Earth…. meaning America, obviously” Eli explained “The new president is a xenophobic asshole, as if owning Roxxon wasn’t bad enough. But he somehow got elected, and we’re actively trying to depower him” 

“What are the Avengers doing about it?” Billy asked, almost sarcastically. Eli just snorted. 

“Heh, nothing of use. They’re trying to handle it civilly” Kate replied “I swear, all the decent members have left” 

“We’ll handle it, one way or another” Nate added, before the group noticed a car pull up in front of the house. The front door opened, and Jeff Kaplan stepped out, looking at the group of superheroes at his front doorstep with his wife. The back door opened, and a young boy wearing a bronze medal, with very similar features to Ellias stepped out, equally confused. 

“What happened here?” Jeff asked as he approached the group “Oh! Hey son” 

“Dad! Hey! Uhhh, slight squirmish, the usual” Billy explained, and Jeff seemed to take it well. The young boy was annoyed. 

“Nooo I missed the fight!” he cried and groaned “All I got was crummy bronze” 

“Hey Elliot, nice medal” Billy greeted his youngest brother with a hair ruffle, trying to cheer him up “Maybe next time you’ll catch the action, and I’ll catch your diving” 

“Oh! I hope so bro-bro!” Elliot replied, before finally noticing the blue boy wrapped in Billy’s arm “Say, who’s that?” Jeff turned his attention to it, pushing his glasses back to get a good look. Billy chuckled and showed his face. 

“Oh! Uhhh, dad, wanna meet your grandson?” he said with a slight chuckle. Both his father and brother were utterly gobsmacked, speechless. 

“How about I refill the kettle? Hm?” Rebecca offered, swooping in to save the day again. 

“I’ll say” Jeff replied in a gasp, and a chuckle. 

 

---

 

Teddy finally arrived home, depleted. Not exactly the kind of action he should be exhausted by. Both safe and not safe for work variants. Counselors talking his pointy ears off about Zack and plans and protocols and blah blah. And something about Earth cutting trade, he was already exhausted at that point. The thing he needs right now is a coffee, and his boys to cuddle. That includes Mister Mistoffelees, who is usually one to greet him with a meow and rubbing against his legs. If he wasn’t there to greet him, he was likely asleep. Lucky bastard. 

Teddy sighed and kicked his boots off, and began to take his cape off. He was just about to let it drop off his wide shoulders when he heard a grunt. The nanny, Frann-Fin (yes, like that one), was staring him down with judgment. 

“Don’t ya dare drop that new cape on the floor, your highness. Just cause ya run the joint, doesn’t mean ya gotta drop your clothes” she greeted with the same nazily, but sorta sarcastic tone she always has. Teddy smiled and saved his cape from the fall. 

“Sorry, Frann, I’ll remember” he replied as she approached him to collect the boots. 

“Just remember who does your underwear washing, and cleans ya sheets after you-know-what, feeds the very needy cat and makes your dinner that I can easily spit in it” Frann added, giving a not-subtle wink up at the emperor, making him chuckle. 

“Love you, appreciate you, thanks” Teddy replied, about to hand the bundle of cape to her, not before saying “If it hits the floor you get a raise” 

“Huh. Well, by all means, drop away” Frann offered, and Teddy let the purple cape drop to the pink and purple tiled floor. Fran scoffed and bent down to pick it up as Teddy made his way to the staircase “That better be at least 100 more” 

“500. I’m gonna nap, I’m dead” Teddy called back, dragging his heavy body up. 

“Your husband and the kid and the cat are all waiting, they came in looking like death woke up” Frann added “I’ll have the dinner served in an hour and a half” Teddy nodded before disappearing out of view, and down the hallway. Even if this was the most Earthly place in the palace, it still felt like a freaking mansion. Such a long hallway to walk down to get to the master bedroom. Teddy quietly creaked the door open, and almost cooed at the sight. 

Billy was in sweatpants and an oversized shirt, sprawled out on his stomach with one arm over Zack’s body, who was fast asleep in a onesie. Next to Zack was Mister Mistoffelees, who noticed Teddy enter and murped. Teddy smiled and approached the bed, petting the cat, before sitting down. Finally kicking his feet up after a long day, he turned on his side to put his own massive arm over all three of his boys, pulling them closer. Both Billy and Zack weren’t disturbed but hummed in their sleep. Teddy sighed happily, feeling completely at home with his family. Something to help guide the happy dreams as he drifted off with them. 

Chapter 4: Daddy Time

Summary:

Billy and Teddy have some private time in the tub. Nothing like talking about each other's horrific days to get in the mood

Notes:

Slightly nsfw for the start. I can't help I'm horny sometimes lol

Teddy was both the last to fall asleep, and the first to wake up. He guessed his boys were really freaking exhausted as they were still snoozing. Billy had unconsciously moved his arm to grip Teddy in his sleep, making it all the more difficult for him to try and wiggle himself free. Mister Mistoffelees noticed him move, and stood up, stretched in unison, before moving to take Teddy’s spot next to Zack. Teddy gave him a pat as he unzipped his uniform, the kitty purring in appreciation. Teddy stripped down to his usual white briefs, tighty whities as Billy jokingly calls them, making sure to treat his actual costume with care so it can be washed later. Groggily making his way to the ensuite, Teddy fixed his mild bed hair in the large mirror, before setting the hot tub bath. In the early days, he’d had to have servants insist on setting it for him, and even undress him. The only other person allowed to do that should be Billy, so Teddy enforced the servants to be hospitable elsewhere. He needed his me time, as well as husband time, and now father time. 

Taking his briefs off and kicking them to the laundry basket to join the many identical pairs, Teddy stepped into the very large bubbling basin and sighed happily as the warm water wrapped onto his green skin. He just sat there, feeling the water for a minute. Cause he knew he was gonna have company. He knew his husband too well. 

Right on queue, the ensuite door opened, and through the mild steam he could see Billy enter and grinned sleepily. His bed hair was even worse than Teddy’s, going in all directions. 

“Hey, big guy. Room for one more?” he asked, but already knowing the answer as he immediately started stripping. Teddy nodded with an eager smile. He couldn’t help but look up and down his husband’s slim twinky body, and by the time the sweats were off, he could see he was very in the mood. The feeling was mutual, bobbing above the water. Billy could easily strip with magic, but he likes giving his husband a show. His Spider-Man briefs were kicked off to join Teddy’s whites, before he stepped in, not even subtly sliding on his husband’s big thighs, moving closer to give him a kiss. Teddy laughed into it. 

“Shouldn’t you know by now, the answer’s always yes” he said, running his hands up Billy’s bareback. Billy hummed in appreciation. 

“Consent is sexy, hon, I know sometimes a solo shower can be good to ease your thoughts” he replied calmly, trying to set a more relaxing tone for the two of them. They both preferred it that way. Billy was already rubbing his fingers into the back of Teddy’s neck. Teddy closed his eyes, enjoying the moment. 

“Yeah, but bathing with you is a million times better” he murmured, just as Billy adjusted, and their two afternoon-wood met underwater “Someone’s excited” Teddy chuckled quietly, with Billy joining in. 

“Just cause we’re daddies now, doesn’t mean we can’t have daddy time…” Billy replied with a cheeky smirk “Fuck knows I need a dick in me after what happened today” Billy may of immediately regreted breaking the horny ASMR vibe he was going for, as Teddy’s brows crossed. 

“Why? Zack had tantrums or something?” he asked curiously, but Billy regrettably shook his head. 

“I wish, that’d be easy. But no” he replied before taking a sigh, shifting himself to sit next to Teddy, legs still on Teddy’s thigh. It was serious “Apparently Earth, or the back home is getting a lot more xenophobic than I remembered. New government task force that’s trying to remove alien life from the planet on the orders of the new president” Teddy frowned and sighed. 

“What the heck…. Don’t know why it wasn’t brought to my attention sooner” he said confused, rubbing his temple. Then he remembered what he barely remembered about the meeting “That’s what Talos was saying about Earth…” Billy immediately went to rubbing his shoulders and neck affectionately “That’s so wrong…” 

“It's a secret movement, I guess. The president knows who he’d piss off. Or rather, he just found out” Billy replied somberly “… We had a squirmish, they attacked my family home and… put a gun to our son’s head” Teddy whipped his head to look at Billy with disbelief, tears welling up already, jaw clenched. If he wasn’t pissed before, he was now. 

“Fucking heck, now I really need to talk” he growled, standing up quickly. It caused a wave from the speed. Billy quickly grabbed his arm and tried to usher his giant husband back. 

“Slow down, relax, stay here hon, please” he said softly. Teddy was supposed to be the level-headed one, but when it comes to family, they’re both prone for rage “He’s safe, we pushed them back to retreat. Me, Eli, Nate and Kate” Teddy sighed, and sat back down in the warm comfort. He put an arm around Billy’s shoulder, pulling him in close next to him. 

“Ok, ok, I’m good. But I’m still gonna do something, organise something, I don’t know… It’s not right” He replied, tilting his head back. Billy kissed the pec he was eye-level with. Teddy hummed again, thinking positive thoughts. Zack was ok, sleeping softly with his kitty, all was well. 

“I know. Do what you feel needs to be done, and I’ll be there with you. In spirit or otherwise in case something mystical comes up” Billy said with a slight groan amongst the pride in his voice “Just have a talk with the Avengers or even the government. They’ll listen to the ones actually being subjugated”

 “Yeah…” Teddy sighed, scratching his temple. He was already ready to just not talk about work and already has stuff to do for the next few days “You always have the most fun, I get stuck in meetings” he joked

“Next time, hon. You can have a solo trip with the baby” Billy replied happily, just now fully hugging and resting his cheek on Teddy’s pec “Just hopefully don’t run into racist soldiers with discount Iron Man suits” Teddy rolled his eyes. 

“Iron Man making weapons for the government, what a surprise” he snickered, with Billy nodding against him, before he bit his lip. 

“There was something else too, hon” Billy started, and Teddy looked down anxiously. 

 “Something else?” he asked, almost too afraid to ask. A million different answers. 

“Zack… did something. I can’t explain it, but I think he has powers” Billy replied, and Teddy flinched in surprise. He wasn’t expecting that, not in a million years. 

“Huh? Powers?” 

“Yeah, like, he blasted one guy with purple energy, almost like magic” Billy recounted, the image clear in his mind’s eye “He likely can’t control it. I’m not saying we should run tests on a toddler, but it’s worth investigating” Teddy nodded slowly, before he just started chuckling. 

“Things are just getting curiouser and curiouser” he said in almost disbelief “What a world we live in, baby” 

“Yeah..” Billy replied in happy agreement “What about you?” Teddy thought over the day, one that almost paled in comparison. 

“Oh yeah, well Cthulhu dropped out of the sky and activated a sky beam, so I and a full army fought him off. I cut off his head with my sword, before a full fleet of TIE fighters swarmed into the atmosphere. I had a lightsaber duel with Darth Revan-lookalike and I Storm’s autograph” Teddy explained all in one breath, obviously lying through his teeth. Billy looked up at him with a deadpan. 

“Wowwww… Almost hard to believe” he replied with equal the amount of deadpan and sarcasm. Teddy scoffed and laughed. 

“Ok, maybe everything EXCEPT the Storm autograph” he said happily, before getting down to the truth “Well, I got the adoption papers passed, just waiting for your signature. And we gotta make it a public event, almost like a coronation. Zack’s gotta willingly consent to giving up his prior names, if he has one, to become our legal heir” Billy nodded along. 

“Simple enough. Nothing like a fancy baby shower, mom’s gonna love it” Billy replied half-sarcastically, before turning to Teddy with a soft smile “I’m proud of you, I know how hard it is to push against traditions” Teddy smiled back and Billy reached up to massage his neck again. He shrugged. 

“They’ll have to deal. I made my case, it convinced enough people, and so I got the support needed, just have to maintain it…” Teddy’s face dropped again, all the criticisms he heard he took to heart, and they were correct. Especially cautious the people’s reactions. Billy noticed, and kissed his pec. 

“I believe in you” he said softly, slowly lighting Teddy’s face back up to full cheery again. 

“Only if you’re there with me. Co-parents, remember?” Teddy replied, and Billy nodded enthusiastically. 

“Of course, Ted, wouldn’t want it any other way” Billy agreed quickly, smiling and hummed happily. He was rubbing his hand up and down Teddy’s body, while Teddy’s big green hand was playing with Billy’s shoulder. Teddy could sense the energy returning again as the serious conversation died down. 

“Well, I can definitely hear the impatience. Might as well get back on me, baby, It’d be highlight of the day easily” Teddy joked, and Billy smirked, wasting no time to slide his naked ass back onto Teddy’s naked thighs, among other things. 

“Aw, not even cuddling with us?” Billy teased, and Teddy had to take it back. 

“Ok, touché. Top 3 moments of the day then” Teddy replied, running a big hand down under the water to grip his husband’s ass, guiding him to where to enter. “Let’s test how quiet we can be for future reference?” Billy smirked, and kissed Teddy deeply, locking the door with magic behind him. 

 

---

 

Following dinner, one that Zack enjoyed very much so. A bit of everything, an experiment to see what kinds of foods he likes. Turns out pumpkin is his favourite vegetable, a future nickname already settled in both Billy and Teddy’s heads. But so began the next experiment. 

How quick can they indoctrinate their son into geek culture? The logical place to start was Star Wars, but that just ended up resulting into more problems. 

“Prequels first, Billy. He’s gotta experience the story how it’s supposed to happen” Teddy suggested, before Billy snatched the remote away. 

“But then we’ll have to watch the Clone Wars in its entirety, followed by Rebels. It’ll take forever to get to the originals” Billy retorted, quickly trying to move the remote curser over to A New Hope, but it was snatched back by Teddy. 

“We’ll be doing that eventually, how many times have we done that ourselves?” he replied, moving the cursor back to Phantom Menace, but not before it vanished from his hand in blue and red sparkle. Right into Billy’s hand. 

“Think of it this way, hon. Do you want Zacky to wait longer to see Luke?” Billy said confidently, bouncing his eyebrows cheekily. 

“Do not use my Luke Skywalker crush against me, babe. Prequels first, enjoy the build-up” The flustered emperor grabbed Billy’s wrist, and taking the remote with the other “Why not let Zacky decide?” Zack was sitting in the middle of the two of them on the couch, Mister Mistoffelees in his lap, big eyes following the remote as it was passed from father to father. He looked confused. 

“Zack, do you wanna watch the good movies first?” Billy cooed, but got a playful shove from his husband. 

“Daddy’s being silly, sweetie. There are no bad movies, but do you wanna watch them all from the beginning?” Zack looked in between the two of them, then at the screen. He gulped, not wanting to make the other daddy mad. But he kept looking at Teddy. 

“B-Begin-in” he stuttered, and Teddy smiled, leaning down to give him a kiss on the head. Billy gasped at first, but smiled nonetheless. 

“Okie dokie then. I see how it is” he said, before slumping down on the couch next to his boy. Teddy chuckled and put his big arm around the two of them. 

“I know you prefer it this way, baby” Teddy replied, but Billy just scoffed and rolled his eyes as the movie began. 

Zack was intrigued at the movie, but it wasn’t far off from what was outside his window that he asked if it was real. Billy and Teddy laughed at each other as they quoted the popular memes, but even the blasting lights and action couldn’t save Zack from the sleepies. Sometime during what feels like the 10th political speech, he was dozed off on Teddy’s arm. 

“Told you so” Billy teased in a whisper, while Teddy rolled his eyes back. 

“Won’t take him to any political meetings, I guess” Teddy replied, before checking the wall clock “I better get him to sleep anyway, we can finish it tomorrow” 

“Aw, don’t wanna finish your favourite?” Billy teased again, smirking up at his husband who was in the process of picking their sleeping son up. Mister Mistoffelees was very bothered by this, and was begrudgingly relocated to Billy’s lap. Teddy just smirked back and leaned down for a smooch. 

“Behave you. Maybe you’ll get another round before sleep” Teddy threatened jokingly, which definitely made Billy shush up. Teddy, satisfied in his victory, carefully held his sleeping son and carried him away from the living room. Leaving Billy alone to look at the paused movie, and his black and white cat kneading his sweats. He ran his hand through the fur to feel the purrs, Mister Mistoffelees happily accepting as his face was attached to Billy’s thigh. It was oddly satisfying, in an ASMR sorta way. But of course, something had to break that spell. His ringtone, a super specific one. 

Go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go! Gotta go FAST! gotta go FAST!

“Ugh” Billy sighed, not wanting to leave his position on the couch, or rather the comfortable spot his hands were in. His phone was on the coffee table, so freaking far away. But he really was expecting this call. Reluctantly lifting his hand, he waved magical energy around to summon the phone to him as it kept singing.  

Gotta go faster, faster, faster, faster, faster! Movin' at speed of-

“Hey Tommy-” 

“YOU HAVE A KID?!?!?” shouted the voice of his twin brother on the other end, almost jump scaring Billy, and Mister Mistoffelees in the process. 

“Nice to hear from you too” Billy replied in a deadpan, steadying himself, and giving the cat a reassuring pat “I might have some idea of what you’re talking about” 

“Don’t bullshit me, Billy. Kate told me, and I wanna know what the fuck happened, or rather HOW the fuck it happened. Cause we all know, Teddy wouldn’t get pregnant, you’d have to top for that-” 

“I got it, Tommy, I got it” Billy interrupted his brother’s rambling, rubbing his tired temple. Maybe he wasn’t in the mood for another round with Teddy later “No, he didn’t get pregnant, and neither did I. We adopted” He could hear the dumbfounded look on Tommy’s face from lightyears away. 

“Huh, well. I mean, congrats bro. It was just a matter of time before you guys went full nuclear family” Tommy replied sarcastically with a snicker. Billy rolled his eyes. 

“We’re not a nuclear family. We’re two guys, one’s an all powerful mutant sorcerer and the other is a biracial alien emperor of the universe, who adopted an orphan who’s also biracial. Our white picket fence is a lot more intergalactic” Billy countered, both half amused and half annoyed at the assumption. So what if he wants the quote-unquote boring married life? “You know, nothing’s stopping you and David from doing the same. It’s been almost a whole year since you guys married” 

“We’ll think about it. Maybe if you guys are soaking up all the attention with baby pics, I’ll have to level the playing fields” Tommy suggested, almost a little too competitively “Imagine little Tommy Alleyne-Shepherds running around-” 

“I can barely handle one” Billy snickered, before taking it back just as fast “I’m kidding, I’m sure you’ll be fine. Take your time” 

“I know, be lucky I’m not there to wedgie your ass or noogie you” Tommy joked, with a particularly sinister giggle “But how is it going though? Figured the Kree-Skrull council thing wouldn’t be keen on an adopted heir” 

“They weren’t. Teddy convinced them that if Zack revoked all his former titles and names, if he has any, then it’ll be ok” Billy replied “I promise you’ll be invited to the ceremony, it’ll have to happen here though. It’s like the equivalent of a British Royal wedding here” 

“Sweeeet, vacation” Tommy jeered enthusiastically. 

“Tommy, you live on Krakoa, you’re on the X-Men. You’re ALWAYS on vacation” Billy replied, but Tommy just scoffed. 

“Vacation from vacation then” he said confidently. Billy couldn’t help but be jealous, despite the fact he too is a mutant “Looking forward to it either way, brosefie. The fam is gonna eat him up for Shavuot” Billy facepalmed himself. 

“Fuck, forgot that was soon. Just so much happening…” he groaned with a yawn, before looking at the time again. It was late, and it wasn’t just Zack who was pooped “Look, I’d love to chat more Tommy, but it’s really late…” 

“It’s 6pm” Tommy replied, dumbfounded. Billy sighed. 

“Different time here, 10:30pm” he corrected

“Never stopped you before” Tommy replied with an obvious shrug on the other end of the call. 

“Yeah, I’ve had a big day. As I’m sure Kate told you” Billy said, remembering the utter chaos of navigating Manhattan again. It was enough to wear celestials down. Tommy too could remember what Kate told him, and growled. 

“Assholes. It’s not a Krakoan matter, but we’ll take em down for you, I swear” he promised angrily, before managing to calm himself down “I know, I know Davey. I’m calm” 

“He’s calm. Hi Billy, congratulations” came the calming voice of David on the other end. 

“Thanks Dave, Tommy says he wants kids too” 

“Wha-“

“I said I was thinking about it!” Tommy shouted in defence, now trying to sign off as quick as possible “Ugh, anyway, nighty night, bro. Say hi to… Zack right?” 

“Yeah” 

“Say hi to Zack for me, from the best uncle he has” Tommy sounded confident he already was, but he has quite the family to compete with. Billy chuckled back at him. 

“Will do, byeee” he replied, before hanging up on Tommy. Sighing, and flopping his hand down. That was enough energy for the day, time for nap round #2. It was a struggle, but Billy managed to switch off the TV and pick up Mister Mistoffelees, who definitely was not happy about being moved yet again. “I know, I know. But we’re going to bed ok? Nice and comfy” Billy carried Mister Mistoffelees up the stairs to the bedrooms, not using his legs, merely floating up with magic like a phantom. He passed by Zack’s now decorated door, opening it briefly to see inside. Zack was tucked in, and very much asleep. Looking so peaceful and comfortable. Mister Mistoffelees struggled in Billy’s arms, who let the cat down. Clearly the kitty wanted to sleep with the new family member for the night, creeping into the room and onto the bed in quick succession. Billy smiled, and left the door a little bit open for them. 

Billy made his way to his and Teddy’s room, lights still on. He saw Teddy stripped down to his white briefs, and lying on the bed. Dozed off. Billy had to chuckle as he started to strip to his own matching briefs on his way to the bed. They were both worn out, and it was only the early days of fatherhood. Teddy noticed him get on the bed. 

“Sorry, I was really sleepy. I don’t know why” he grumbled, and Billy just curled up next to his massive form. He loved feeling so small in comparison to Teddy, he felt so safe and so comfortable. He only has to wonder what Zack feels when being held by him. Like an actual newborn almost probably. Teddy hummed, and Billy summoned a blanket over them. 

“Rest up, hon. We’re gonna need it” Billy whispered lovingly, before of course saying “I love you, goodnight” 

“I love you too, Billy. Good night” 

Chapter 5: To Earth Again

Summary:

Teddy takes Zack on a solo trip to Earth, as he prepares for a big meeting

It was probably stupid to bring Zack back to Earth so soon. But Billy wanted Teddy to have a one-on-one trip with Zack just like he did. Not like he had much choice, Billy was called by Doctor Strange for a task, and Teddy had some things to do on Earth. Only fair he takes Zack along for the ride. 

It had only been a couple days since that tiresome day, most of it spent at home, not doing much except binging Star Wars content. Almost done with Clone Wars, and Zack is a fan. His favourite characters are R2-D2 and Yoda, mostly from an audio standpoint. Teddy could chuckle at the very recent memories of Zack whistling and attempting Yoda’s dialect, both dads joining in on occasion. Anything they could to replace a traumatic memory with good ones. But even the notion of going back to Earth only seemed to excite Zack, as he impatiently kicked his feet while in the booster seat. Teddy couldn’t teleport like his husband, so the royal yacht was the mode of transport for today. A lavish space cruiser, with two escorts flying by its side as it travelled smoothly at hyperspeed. He, Zack, Lauri-Ell and Talos were in the passenger seating, the latter two on board for the diplomatic part of the mission. But they promised to give Teddy plenty of time alone with his son to bond. 

Before the ship landed, Teddy departed to the bathroom to change. It felt like forever since his human-looking form was his default, and to be frank, he honestly didn’t miss it. He’s gotten so incredibly comfortable and attached in his muscular green skin, that looking in the mirror to see a shorter, slimmer and pink-skinned version of himself didn’t feel satisfactory. And on top of it, he did not miss denim either. Compared to the usual tights, sweats or nothing, they were just as uncomfortable. But it was only for the civilian part of the day, once he can get to the Kaplans or Nate and Eli, he can go back to his normal. 

Stepping out of the bathroom and back to the passenger section. Very reminiscent of luxury private jets looked like, but he’s gotten used to feeling like he belonged there. Zack was playing educational children’s games on his Switch, and looked up. His face was immediately marked with confusion. 

“D-Daddy?” He asked anxiously, probably unsure if it was Teddy he was talking to. 

“Yes, sweetie? You like daddy’s look?” Teddy asked him, but the baby bit his lip and looked away shyly. “Hey, what’s with that face, champ?” 

“No, not daddy. Weird” Zack stuttered out, still really nervous. He was probably just trying to be nice. 

“I know it’s weird, I don’t like it either. It’s only for a little while, then we can be ourselves again. It’s very dangerous” 

“Whyyy” Zack whined and pouted, putting his switch on his lap so he can cross his arms. Teddy sighed and knelt down in front of his booster seat. 

“Remember what happened last time you were here? Those bad guys?” he asked, and Zack nervously nodded “I don’t want that to ever happen again, understand? Me and papa love you very much, and we don’t want anything bad to happen to you, we’re gonna protect you” Zack’s lil ears perked up, and he had a little warm smile 

“W-Weally?” he asked innocently, and Teddy nodded affirmatively. 

“Yes sweetie, we do” Teddy replied, before regrettably sighing “And so, I gotta ask you to do the same. Remember that costume you wore with papa?” Zack nodded slowly before his turquoise skin changed to match Teddy’s, his chin smoothing out and shrinking. He was already in the civilian clothes Billy got him, but something did change. His soft black hair changed to blonde instead. 

“I wanna be wike daddy” Zack stated shyly, blushing a little and smiling. Teddy shared it, and leaned down to kiss his son’s forehead. 

“I think the hair suits you, to be honest” Teddy chuckled, giving it a ruffle to make Zack giggle. The only thing else Teddy could think of, ishis very good Yoda impression “Now, land soon, we will. Lots of fun planned, we do” Zack started giggling like crazy, almost like he was being tickled. Teddy smiled wide, and let his young son calm down. 

“But, what fun to do we have? Mmmmrrrnmm” Zack asked in his own Yoda impression, that still needs a lot of work. It was closer to a Grogu impression. 

“Do some shopping and sightseeing that you didn’t get to. Hang out with some me and papa’s friends… and then have a meeting with important people about this WASPS thing” Teddy replied, saying the last thing with almost dread, but mostly just annoyance. He shouldn’t have to do this, he just wanted to hang out with his son for the whole day. 

But a hero, or an Emperor’s work is never done. 

 

---

A couple of hours worth of shopping and eating were done and dusted. Zack was still just as eager as he was apparently last time. But he was also more focused, already knowing what Lego set to get that he’d seen last time. Even Teddy picked up some for himself, his geeky side not resisting a big Star Wars set. But he tried his best to give Zack a much different experience than what Billy did. 

Walking through Central Park was nice, feeling the cool breeze on them as the main source of fresh air in the musky metropolitan city filled their heads. Zack saw some squirrels, and very much wanted to pat them, if only they didn’t keep running away. Teddy chuckling at his son’s excitement as his senses were pretty overwhelmed by new surroundings. 

He did let him play on the playground, the same one his mom used to take him to when he was a kid. The same slide Zack was on top of used to be like his tower, overlooking his kingdom. Little did young Teddy know it wasn’t far off from his future. Zack had the same smile and giggle as he went down the slide. 

“My tummy felt funny!” The boy giggled, before immediately going for another round. Just like Teddy used to, drove his mom crazy. He just wished she was here to see her grandson loving life. The feeling was starting to get to Teddy’s nerves, and he approached the slide. If he was his natural height, he’d be almost eye-level with Zack on top of the slide’s tower. 

“Hey, one more go and we have to leave, ok sweetie?” he told Zack, who just pouted, disappointed. 

“Awwww, but it’s fun!” Zack whined, stomping his feet. This could go pear shaped if Teddy’s not careful. 

“Zack, we’re on a schedule. We gotta see some friends of mine before going to the important meeting” Teddy explained as patiently as he could “Make the last one count, we’ll be back again. Might have a slide built in the palace for you” 

“Weally? A big slide?” Zack asked, his mood instantly cheering up. Teddy had to mentally sigh in relief and nod enthusiastically. 

“Of course. The biggest, twistiest slide ever, or something simple like this next to it” he replied happily “But we’ll need to do all this important stuff first before we get it, understand?” 

“Yeah…. Okie, one morrrre” Zack hesitated on the top of the slide, savouring the moment, before propelling himself forward. He zoomed down the slide, giggling as he went, but accidentally went too fast. He wouldn’t slow down at the bottom and was still in mid air as he left the slide. He was gonna land rough on his back, Teddy’s eyes widening with worry, but a hum of purple energy cushioned Zack’s fall. It enveloped his back, gently cradling him to ground safely. Teddy couldn’t believe what he was seeing. It was true, his son was magic. He rushed over to help Zack up. 

“You ok, sweetie? You almost went too fast” Teddy told him, brushing off the bark chip from his overalls. Zack seemed unbothered, except a little bit confused. 

“Too fast?” 

“Yeah, too fast. But you seemed to… uh, saved yourself?” Teddy was still figuring it out, Billy would have a far far better understanding of it all. Magic was his area, space was Teddy’s “Well, now that the fun’s over, we gotta go drop you off with some friends” 

“Friends?” Zack asked, taking Teddy’s big hand in his small one as they started to walk down the path to one of the exits. Teddy nodded. 

“Hmmhm. You’ve met them, and they’re really nice. They’ll protect you while I’m gone” Teddy replied, sounding confident in his plan. He didn’t want to endanger the in-laws again, and it’d be a deathwish to go after superheroes. It just made Teddy all the more determined to help shut this down. No one was gonna hurt his son, and get away with it. 

 

---

A walk down an almost literal memory lane to get to Teddy’s old penthouse apartment across from the park. Teddy still could not believe how lucky he was to score it in the first place. All they needed was Roberto De Costa as their sugar daddy. He wouldn’t have given it up if it weren’t for the whole Emperor of an intergalactic alliance and everything. But he was more than happy to give it to his friends who needed an upgrade. 

It’s almost a different skin walking inside, different aesthetics and decor. Eli had gym equipment around, Nate some weird alien science tech casually lying around. Not much hint of rainbow flags or geek merch that were ever present when Billy and Teddy lived there. But they kept the furniture the same, for whatever reason. Teddy kept acknowledging it as he was parked on the same couch, watching the news as Nate handed him and Zack a lemonade glass each. 

“Crazy stuff happening, right? President Saxon is out of his mind. To think he was the worse option next to Wilson fucking Fisk” Nate commented bitterly as the news coverage showed the smarmy president arrive at the recently constructed Dome Court, a tall legal building with a dome on the top. Somewhere Teddy was set to arrive within the hour. 

“Sure you don’t want alcohol for this, Ted?” Eli asked him from the other couch, joined by his boyfriend next to him. Teddy shook his head. 

“Probably, very likely, but no thanks. I don’t wanna drink around Zack” he replied, taking a scull of lemonade to help calm himself. Zack tried to copy him, but just spilt a bit on his face “Careful sweetie” Teddy wiped his face clean before going back to the TV. He just had so much built up rage towards that man he’d barely even heard of, but just what he ordered to do to his son and his people. 

“Are you- Are you gonna tell them off, daddy?” Zack asked him, a little anxious as he was nibbling on his thumbnail. Teddy ruffled his blonde hair affectionately, telling him not to worry. 

“Yeah, sweetie. Gonna tell them to leave us alone, I promise” Teddy replied “You can watch on TV, I don’t want you anywhere near them” Zack slumped down and pouted. 

“But I wanna come see you tell them off!” he whined, doing his best to enlarge his eyes for a cuter look. It almost worked, but the threat was too big for a small child. Teddy just ruffled his hair again. 

“Sorry sweetie. Eli and Nate are gonna look after you” Teddy replied “Just keep the mechanics away from child reach” 

“I know, I know. I’ve packed it all in the study, busy making adjustments to my suit” Nate reassured, while not subtly sliding some gadget away from view “By the way, how’s Time-Lord for a new name? Or Future Man?” 

“The latter one maybe, but keep brainstorming, babe” Eli replied, taking scull of his drink as the news camera turned on the TV. Three Avengers were arriving at the Dome, and unfortunately not any of the good ones. Iron Man, Captain America and Captain Marvel “Oh look out, the Averagers are here. Probably still out to be the centrist in all of this” 

“It also means that’s my queue” Teddy said as he stood up from the couch, walking over to the balcony with Zack close behind. Teddy activated a comm on his headset, letting the pilots know he’s ready. He turned around and kneeled down to be closer to his son. “You’ll be fine, Zack, I promise. I’ll be right back” he leaned down and gave Zack a peck on the forehead, just as the Alliance ship pulled up over the railing. The door opened to reveal Lauri-Ell, waiting patiently for the goodbyes. Zack did a little sigh, a pout just set in stone on his face. 

“Okay…” he said, giving one more hug, his small body being absolutely covered with Teddy’s arms. 

“We’ll get ice cream later. I love you” Teddy promised, giving him a kiss on the head.

“Love you too, d-daddy” Zack whimpered, before he was reluctantly let go. 

“Knock em dead, Ted” said Eli with a thumbs up. 

“We’ll watch him with our lives. but If you need backup, we’re there in a second” Nate added, to which Teddy gave a nod of approval. 

“Hopefully won’t come to that…” he replied, before finally jumping on board the hovering spaceyacht. He immediately went to the bathroom to change, his heart on the verge of racing again. His own words repeating over in his head. “Hopefully it won’t come to that” he muttered to himself, before closing the door. 

Chapter 6: Thunder-Dome

Summary:

Teddy meets with the president, and it may not be all what it seems

Notes:

Hope you enjoy the second last chapter! Idk if I'm any good at action but regardless, hope you enjoy. Unless you like the Avengers, then maybe not.

The yacht pulled up on the large balcony leading to the main Dome room. Teddy wanted to avoid the press and cameras. While it may not appear to be the best look, he just wanted to avoid making this a show. He was flanked by four guards, Talos and Lauri-Ell. The pilots were told to park discreetly elsewhere, and await the signal to leave. Teddy honestly couldn’t wait for it, he wished he didn’t have to do this. But some humans just had to be scummy. 

The doors opened to the very traditional senate room. Teddy was honestly expecting the one from Star Wars on Coruscant with how much it was hyped up. It sorta looked like it, just with grandstands all around the room. Many of which were filled with a stuffy-looking person in a suit. In the middle of the room was the president as seen on TV. A middle aged man looking more like a rat if anything. Wormtounge and Wormtail got nothing on this dude. And of course the three Avengers were in the middle with him. 

“Ah look out, the King of queens is here” Tony muttered, probably not realising Teddy could hear him with his pointy vulcan ears. He rolled his eyes and continued forward to be in the middle of the room. The president, Saxon smirked at the arrival in his chair. 

“Welcome, Emperor Marvel. Take a seat, I was just about to begin” he told Teddy, his voice very nazely and obnoxious. But Teddy sat down, and impatiently awaited whatever this weirdo had to say. “So this meeting was called to order, based on alleged rumours that my new government is phasing out our alien citizens-“ 

“Your strikeforce assaulted my family, one of them is a 5 year old boy. My husband has the bruises” Teddy cut in bitterly, already annoyed and it was just the first sentence. 

“Now, now, Dorrek. Let’s be civil here” Captain America said, waving his hand in a downward motion. Teddy frowned, and leaned back in his chair again as the president looked rather smug, before che continued. 

“As I was saying… These assumptions are obviously false, merely the actions of some terrorist hate group” 

“A hate group with high level tech for weapons, including Stark suit knockoffs” Teddy interrupted again, much to Saxon’s annoyance. What was strange, Teddy kept looking around and the other senators weren’t reacting at all, blankly staring. 

“Hey now, I’m not aware of any such knockoffs” Iron Man defended, waving it away “Sure you don’t have me confused with say, Crimson Dynamo, or Doctor Doom? Pretty sure Dynamo would have more of a problem with you. Ya know, since he’s Russian and, you know…” 

“They looked like yours” Teddy replied bluntly, ignoring him. He always hated that smug prick. 

“Forgive me, Dorrek? Is it?” Saxon asked, in a particularly weasley tone. 

“Emperor Marvel” Teddy corrected just as bluntly as he did with Tony. Saxon shrugged. 

“Fine, Emperor Marvel. But you were not there, were you not? I hardly think you have any proof” he continued, making Teddy roll his eyes. 

“The Kaplans were there if you require civilian proof. Why aren’t they here? I don’t see them” Teddy answered, though he would want his amazing in-laws far far away from this place. They don’t need any more strife. 

“Because I feel they’re not reliable sources of evidence” Saxon replied, leaning in with a smirk “Mostly bias, and who’s to say the so called hero, Scarlet Sorcerer, might’ve bewitched them, to further your invasion” Teddy couldn’t believe a word he was hearing. His party weren’t either, and it was more a surprise the Avengers weren’t standing up to it. 

“Are you serious? Are you guys seriously listening to this dude?” Teddy asked the three. Tony bit his lip, while Steve and Carol shrugged. 

“Well, there have been a lot of Skrull attacks here lately, Emperor. It’s getting harder to believe there isn’t some motivation behind it” Carol replied honestly “President Saxon is a good man, he’s helped us more than once. And these undercover agents don’t exactly paint the best light” 

“That wasn’t us! We have Skrull separatists who are trying to frame us!” Teddy retorted back, outraged and frustrated “There are still good, peaceful Skrulls on Earth who are part of the alliance” 

“Why are they here then, and not where they belong? Hmm? To spy? Sleeper Agents?” 

“You dare accuse our people, and our Emperor of espionage? Are you out of your minds?” Lauri-Ell spoke up, joining in on the outrage. Still none of the senators reacted. 

“It’s ridiculous!” Teddy added, too angry to notice “You cut our trade, we noticed. You attack our people, and we noticed because you attacked the Royal Family. MY family!” Saxon remained calm, calculating. He smiled, hoping Teddy was done with his spiel. 

“No one attacked you but unlawful hate groups, Emperor. And may I be frank?” he replied passive aggressively, before taking a stand “Your people are devious, you infiltrate our planet to do who knows what. If you think us rounding up spies is unlawful, then take a look in the mirror you inhuman monst-“ 

“Look out!” Carol shouted, as a laser blast fired at the President. Carol was able to move in just in time to sweep Saxon out of the blast’s view. Teddy looked around confused, the blast came from his side. He saw the gun, and one of the bodyguards was holding it. The Skrull smirked. 

“Wha? Trooper, what the heck!” Teddy demanded, before the Skrull removed his helmet. 

“This is for the true Queen, hehehe” he replied quietly, yet all the more sinisterly, before turning to the Avengers again, shouting: “You’ll pay for that insult on the Emperor!” 
 
“I told you! I told you! Take them down!” Saxon screamed at the Avengers, ordering them to stand and ready to fight. Iron Man’s armour was already in flight and in attack mode. 

“No stop! He’s not with us! He’s not with us!” Teddy yelled at them, but had to move out of the way when a repulser blast and a photon blast headed toward him. 

“Protect the Emperor!” Lauri-Ell ordered the remaining guards, before being collided with a zooming Carol. “Don’t fight us, sister! It’s not what it looks like!” she pleaded, but Carol had none of it, holding onto the hammer angrily. 

“Then what is it!” Carol snarled back, before firing another photon blast, sending Lauri-Ell backwards into a wall. Carol chased after her as the other Kree and Skrull soldiers, lead by Talos, took flight to attack Iron Man, dodging repulsor blasts. 

“Avoid the senators, Iron Man! Everyone move!” Captain America ordered, but the senators just stared blankly. It was unnerving, he didn’t focus on Teddy rushing towards him, sword in hand. “Emperor Marvel! Stop this!” 

“You started it! He wasn’t one of us-oof!” Teddy was hit when a falling Kree landed on him. Iron Man was making quick work of the flying soldiers. 

“I’ll help with the Emperor then” Iron Man said as he fired more beams at Teddy, who blocked with his sword. He tried to keep up with the beams, but it was hard when Captain America was on him too. Tony fired up his chest beam “This is gonna be a royal pain in the ass your majesty, but you’re used to those aren’t you?” Teddy grinded his teeth. It wasn’t even true. 

“Shut up! Stop fighting us! Ow!” A blow from Captain America’s shield in his arm, followed by the large beam from Tony’s chest. It crashed Teddy into the floor, but he managed to hold Excelsior up to block in time. Any damage was quickly healed soon after. He definitely couldn’t do this all day for sure. All the body guards were now up on their feet again, but Saxon must’ve called security. The black armoured guards, exactly what Billy described, were entering the room at rapid pace. They didn’t have the numbers, Teddy and Lauri-Ell could take them, but not with three of the most powerful Avengers on them too. The desperation, the annoyance of the situation, the damage from the blast. It was enough for Teddy to just stand up, point his sword to the sky and scream: 

 “ENOUGH!” 

Purple lightning shot out of the sword, zapping almost every enemy in the room. Iron Man’s suit was fried and he fell. Captain America managed to block, and several of the soldiers took cover from the storm. The lightning only phased through the senators, something definitely wasn’t right. Teddy called off the storm, taking a breath as everyone around him recovered. Lauri-Ell was thrown back into the room, Carol following her. Both exhausted already. Teddy lifted his sword out in front of him, looking around. 

“Enough! Something isn’t right here. A Skrull spy is attempting to frame us!” Teddy shouted “And did anyone notice the senators are all holograms?” 

“I didn’t frame you, you ordered me to fire on the president!” the Skrull trooper replied, stepping out “Is this how you treat your loyal subjects, your majesty? By throwing them under the ship?” 

“Don’t listen to him, he lies” Lauri-Ell ordered, standing next to Teddy in defence. Saxon stepped out from the hiding place behind the chair, looking rather smug still, all things considered. 

“I think that’s all the proof we need. Captain, if you please-“ before he could continue, another purple flash appeared in the room, making everyone on edge after the lightning storm “What was that? Another attack?” Saxon demanded, and waited for a response. Teddy looked around, confused. But his answer was heard with a voice. 

“Daddy!” Zack cried out, running over to Teddy and hugging his leg “I-I was so worried!” Teddy was dumbstruck, absolutely bewildered. 

“Zack? How-How did you get here?!” he asked, trying not to be angry he was here, in such a hostile place. 

“It-It was on the TV! I got so scared, I just really really really really wanted to see if you-you were okay! So I just thought of you, really hard, and here I am!” Zack replied innocently, biting his thumbnail “I’m weally sowwy, daddy! Pwease don’t be mad! I’ll try to go back!” Zack squinted his face, trying to focus but was too stressed. 

“We’ll figure it out later, sweetie” Teddy said, hushing him, before getting back into a defensive position. His sword out in front and the remaining guards huddled around Zack as the black-armoured guards closed in. 

“So, he’s brought the secret weapon I’ve been hearing about. The one that took out one of my best officers” Saxon warned, pointing at “Watch out for this one Avengers, he may look small but he packs a punch” 

“Sir, that’s a child” Steve replied, cautious. At least someone was doubting. 

“Only if you threaten him. He’s scared, he’s still learning” Teddy explained, as Zack clinged to his leg, frightened. 

“Didn’t really excuse when your husband lost it a few times” Carol snarked “World doesn’t need another Scarlet Witch catastrophe. Might be worth looking into” 

“Touch him, and you’re dead” Teddy replied instantly, grinding his teeth. No one dares speak bad about his husband, especially not the Avengers who imprisoned him for it. He didn’t think how it’d look however, as Saxon grinned. 

“Threats now? My, my, Emperor Marvel. You’re not helping your case” he smeared “If you could’ve just said that from the start, we wouldn’t have to set up this meeting”

“But why? Why the holograms? Why the framing?” Teddy demanded, already exhausted “And why all this hatred for us? That Skrull is not for us” The Skrull in question was nowhere to be seen. 

“Emperor Marvel, please surrender. Don’t make us fight you in front of your kid” Carol requested, as calmly as she could with her hard exterior. 

“Even though we don’t know, or want to know how that happened” Tony added, clearly poking the Teddy bear. It’s like they want him rage out. 

“I just don’t understand…” Teddy breathed heavily, tired. He just wanted to go home now, sleep with his husband, his son, his cat. Lock out the outside universe. But like hell he was gonna back down from protecting them. He looked down at Zack, his sweet innocent eyes encouraging him to hold his sword high. “You’re not hurting my son again, you’re not gonna hunt my people anymore” 

“For as long as they’re a threat, we will” Saxon replied coldly, nodding to the commanders of his squadron to close in. The three Avengers sighed and prepared for another fight. Teddy braced for impact, ready to shield Zack with his whole being from them. He was ready. 

What Teddy wasn’t ready for, was a flash of red light flashed in the room above. A device fall from the ceiling, landing strangely softly onto the ground. It looked like a round buzzer, or alarm. But like both, a sonar pulse went off into the room. Teddy and his quad wincing in the tingling, as did many of the soldiers. Something Teddy has felt before. He could feel his pointy ears shrink down, as did his height. He could see Zack’s black hair return, but everyone else in his squad looked unchanged. Except the rest of the room wasn’t. 

“Oh my-“ Captain America gasped, looking around. 

“They’re all…” Captain Marvel started before Teddy finished for her. 

“Skrulls… They’ve been Skrull Separatists the whole time” Teddy gasped. He could see the wrinkled chins under the helmets, clear as day “President Saxon, why-“ President Saxon looked away. But it was clear his skin was now green, and his bone structure different to what it was. He turned around and sneered “A Skrull Revealer, how quaint… so you found us out, half-breed” 

“What happened to President Saxon, creature!” Carol snapped, flaring up the light show around her. 

“Who? Me? I am Sx’n, loyal captain to the true ruler of the Skrull Empire. Empress R'Klll” Saxon replied proudly “Would now be a good time to explain my evil plan, or whatever it is you call it?” 

“This is some kind of trap?” Captain America asked, taking it unironically. 

“You could say so. I implemented myself into your ranks, building up power so I can drive a large wedge between Earth and the Alliance. Earth is one of the biggest superpowers in the known universe, with so many of our kind here. Race-traitors, but Skrulls nonetheless” Saxon elaborated, as if he had nothing to lose “I didn’t need much work to get the humans to turn on you, they already don’t tolerate us. Just needed a push, to weaken you. Turn your allies onto you. Destabilize the rule so the real Empress can take control of this failed regime” 

“Nonsense, this is the most successful reign we’ve had” Talos interjected, and Sx’n laughed. Almost like an unnerving cackle. 

“With a half-breed on the throne? One who indulges in sexual immortalities? One who lets someone of not his own blood into the line of succession? Never” Sx’n pulled out his own ray gun, the Skrull spy and the whole battalion of guards did the same. 

“That’s enough. You’re in the unpopular party, I’m afraid” Captain America said, raising hi shield “Your plan has been exposed, you’ve lost cover. Surrender” Teddy was glad The Avengers finally turned around, but was it too little too late. Sx’n smiled. 

“Unlikely. You may defeat my soldiers. But I got a contingency…” Sx’n opened his shirt of the suit he was wearing, revealing a metal circle engrained into his chest. Teddy knew about Skrull weapons, and that was one of the most dangerous “What was that Earth saying? Now I have become death, the destroyer of worlds? But this city block will have to do, as long as you and your bastard die” 

“Sx’n! That’s almost an atom bomb! You wouldn’t!” Teddy yelled, pleading him to surrender. It was too much at stake, too many casualties. 

“Oh, I will. One move toward me and everyone here dies” Sx’n sneered, moving his fingers to the bomb, ready to activate it on command. No one there was fast enough to catch him before it. “You think I won’t? You underestimate me, Emp- AHHH!!” A crack, and a blinding red lightning bolt shot from the ceiling, striking Sx’n to the ground. Teddy knew who it was, and smiled. 

“You will not!” came the voice of his husband, appearing in the room in all his scarlet glory. He waved at his husband happily “Hey hon, sorry I’m late!” 

“Papa!” Zack cheered happily.

“Took your time for a dramatic entrance, babe ex machina!” Teddy joked, just as the rest of the soldiers trained their guns on Billy. But Billy just smiled and sent out a red pulse of magic to knock them all back. 

“The bomb’s still active, Iron Man and I will deactivate it. Rest of you, wreck house!” Billy ordered, floating down to meet Sx’n to bind his fried hands. 

“Talos, get Zack away from here” Teddy commanded “It’s clobbering time” luckily Thing wasn’t here to say it, before Teddy and his squad started to do exactly that, wreck house. Soldiers were flying everywhere, and with the help of the Avengers, most of the numbers were down in no time. Tony and Billy were busy with the bomb, but were having no luck. 

“Listen, twink supreme, I don’t know Skrull tech. Didn’t you bring an engineer?” Tony complained, trying to figure out the blinking inner workings of the bomb. 

“Well, I didn’t know some psycho was gonna bring a bomb, I literally just got back from a fight with Baron Mordo, didn’t have time to change or prep” Billy replied snarkily, while Sx’n was just cackling still. 

“Careful, one wrong move and this whole building goes” he jeered. Billy just rolled his eyes as Tony continued to work, as soldiers flew around their heads as Teddy and the others kept on clearing the room. 

“Screw it, b.r.b.” Billy waved his hands and teleported himself and Sx’n out of the room in an instant. 

“What the hell? I thought I was almost there” Tony whined, just as a soldier hit him from behind. Teddy grabbed the soldier and threw him into a wall. The last of the soldiers were just being taken down and piled up, till finally the last one just surrendered, before being knocked down by Lauri-Ell. 

“Where’d Billy go?” Teddy asked out into the void, only for his answer to be seen when Billy teleported back into the room, a little more windswept that usual. 

“Sorry about that guys, just took our friend for a little sightseeing… in space” Billy replied proudly “Bomb went off with no collateral damage, and only one death. Himself” 

“Couldn’t have done that before?” Iron Man whined, but Billy ignored it. 

“Anywayyy, I called for a Star Destroyer-“ 

“That’s not what they’re called” Lauri-Ell corrected in a deadpan. Billy brushed it off again. 

“I called for that big class of ship that reminds me of a Star Destroyer to come pick up our friends here. I don’t think you guys want the Earth’s governments to have them” he continued

“They won’t. We’ll hold them on the prison planet to await trial. Too bad Sx’n escaped trial, we failed in that…” Lauri-Ell sighed, disappointed. Teddy put his hand on her shoulder supportively. 

“He done that himself, he’s no longer a threat, or a poison to our Alliance. We did good” he replied proudly, before grimacing himself “Though, I do need to speak with my grandmother-from-hell about her supporters” 

“Best leave that to you, and us to clean up the mess here” Captain America said “We got press down there wondering what the heck is happening up here” 

“That’s your job, Stars and Stripes” Teddy replied, already with too much on his plate. But all his worries went out the window when Talos reappeared, with Zack running towards them.

“Daddy! Papa! You did it!” he cried out happily, meet Teddy’s hands to be scooped up into the air, giggling happily. 

“We did, lil man! You ok?” Teddy replied, pulling Zack down for a warm hug, which Zack eagerly nodded as he returned the hug. He saw Billy over Teddy’s shoulder and reached his little hand down so Billy could hold it with a smile. 

“How’d you get here anyway, pumpkin?” Billy asked his son with a teasing tone. 

“Ummm, madg-magically, like you papa! Pur-purple sparklies!” Zack answered, giggling away, moving his fingers to get some reaction from them. But no purple sparklies. Billy held onto the hand and rubbed his thumb over the soft skin affectionately. Teddy just bounced him a little. 

“Not to worry, Zacky. I think a visit to a magic doctor is in order then, while we’re here in New York. See what’s up with your purple sparklies” Teddy suggested, but Billy grimaced a little. 

“Uh, Doctor Strange is away… magical business” he replied “He’s dealing with Mordo in the Dark Dimension, might take a few days” 

“If only we knew someone who has a magical relative, like a parent or something…” Teddy said with a bit more than normal sarcasm. But it made Billy smile, loving the idea. 

Chapter 7: Beginning of the New Beginning

Summary:

Billy and Teddy seek advice from Wanda, and the aftermath of the big day

Notes:

Thank you so much for all the compliments, I truly don't get them a lot so it means the world. Hopefully you enjoy this last chapter as much as the rest.

Suburban life honestly sounded so relaxing after everything Billy and Teddy had to get through. Perhaps Wanda Maximoff had the right idea, retire to go live with a sentient vibrator and his kids in outer New York. Not bothering anyone. Sounded peaceful, but unfortunately, not much of a life for Emperors. They were trying to take it easy after the showdown in the Dome. All the agents were arrested and the press assured. They even had to calm down Eli and Nate, who were freaking out and texting like crazy after Zack apparently dropped through the floor in a purple portal. Now, while it was time to follow up on that research, it sure did feel good to walk with their son. Swinging between his dad's arms along the sidewalk as they made their way to the Vision residence. 

“Higher! Higher!” Zack giggled, as he was hoisted above the ground by his arms, one dad holding a wrist each. Billy’s arm was going above his head at this point. 

“Woah, slow down there Icarus. Papa’s on his tippie-toes if you go any higher” Teddy joked, lifting Zack high again, teasingly getting Billy to get on his tippie-toes. Not that Billy complained, he was having a great time. 

“But-but papa can fly too! Mag- magical!” Zack replied, trying to push himself higher anyway. 

“Any higher and I’ll have to jump with you, pumpkin” Billy chuckled, trying to keep up on his toes. Luckily he didn’t have to wait much longer. “We’re here” 

Here referred to the very quaint cottage core house, in the midst of the subherban houses surrounding it. A beautiful garden out the front, the two large trees giving shade to the two-story house (well three, there’s a spooky attic). It had a very vintage quality to it, in comparison to the others surrounding it. One would suspect it would be the house of a witch. And they would be right. 

The Kaplan-Altman’s passed the letterbox, with VISION-MAXIMOFF on the side, and down the front path to the door. Zack was lifted up by his arms again so he didn’t have to climb the stairs to the porch, being let down again as his dads rang the doorbell. They waited for a few seconds, before the wooden door opened, revealing an older teenage boy with green hair and red synthetic skin. Dressed in a hoodie and sweats, like he wasn’t expecting guests. But he smiled nonetheless, blank yellow eyes lighting up. 

“Hey Vin!” Billy greeted his step-brother happily. 

“Oh, hello there William, Theodore, unknown Krull child. How are you doing today?” Vin replied with the same robotic enthusiasm. 

“Pretty good, but uh, Krull?” Teddy asked him, confused. 

“It is a nickname, for Kree and Skrull hybrids, or rather a way to refer to the Alliance quickly amongst my fellow heroes. I apologise if it is deemed offensive, and will inform everyone” Vin replied, putting his hands together for forgiveness, but Teddy patted it down. 

“Oh no Vin, it’s fine, it’s cool” he said, before pulling Zack in front of him for introductions “This is Zack, our foster-soon-to-be-adopted son” 

“H-Hewo!” Zack greeted shyly, putting his hand up. Vin smiled and did the same. 

“Greetings Zackary. My name is Vin Vision, I am your… half-uncle, I do believe” he replied, before looking back up to the parents “Was there something I can help with you today, uh… my dudes?” 

“Uh. Yes, is my mom home?” Billy asked, to which Vin nodded. 

“Of course. Please, do come inside” he said, stepping aside to hold the door open for the guests. Inside the house was just as quaint as outside, bit of a mix of every mid-to-late 20th century decor at every turn. Hard to imagine it’s a house for androids, except for the big TV. Upon the door closing, Teddy shedded his human form, growing taller, buffer and greener. He accidentally bumped his head into a ceiling light, remembering not every house was for his size. Zack saw it, and did the same. They barely took another step before the fast running of four legs approached, and a green dog ran toward them. 

“Sparky!” Billy cried out, opening his arms up, meeting Sparky in a hug. He was more of a cat person, but doggies are just so adorable. Sparky flew over Billy’s shoulder to do the same to Teddy, licking his face clean, before noticing the newcomer, floating down to greet Zack. The little boy giggled as his face was licked, his hands moving to pat the soft synthetic fur. 

“Sparky do sit” Vin commanded, and like a switch, Sparky sat and just let Zack pat his head

“Heehee, doggy!” Zack giggled, putting his face to the dog’s fur. 

“That is a good boy. I was just playing League of Legends with my boyfriend” Vin explained, showing his paused TV screen ''My father Vision, my sister Viv, and my brother Jonas, are both away from these premises. Perhaps if you’d stay longer, they will appear” 

“If we’re lucky, but I sorta need to see mom most. It’s kinda important” Billy replied, trying not to sound impatient. So much to plan after this visit.

“Of course, she is in her sanctum, downstairs you go” Vin said, moving to the door under the staircase. The ordinary-looking door opened to reveal another staircase going down to a dark candle-lit path. Billy held his son close as they made their way down. Teddy had to shrink again to fit, much more than his human form even. He was following his husband and son down, holding the hem of his jeans up so they wouldn’t fall down. He knows he could just shift clothes onto his body, but he actually prefers having clothes in his wardrobe. The short staircase ended in a very different looking series of rooms. It was more dimly lit with candles, with wood and stone architecture holding it together. Shelves of mystical books and artifacts all around, and comfy furniture to contrast it. At the far end of what looks like a living room, Wanda Maximoff sat by the fireplace on her large chair. 

She smiled at their entry, standing up to meet halfway. She was dressed very reminiscent of Agatha Harkness, only in a red pallett. A mirror of her current role and status. Since passing down the Scarlet Witch crown to her son that’s approaching her, she lived the quiet life as a mystic mentor. Keeping to herself, hardly interfering. Especially to her own kind on Krakoa. Always wise to avoid the conversation, luckily it wasn’t why Billy was there. 

“Heyyy, mom” Billy greeted with a small wave, as Teddy grew back to a size that kept his pants up. Zack was looking around curiously, but focused on the strange woman. 

“Billy, so good to see you” Wanda greeted back, meeting Billy into a warm hug, one no different than one with Rebecca Kaplan. Wanda pulled out of it, smiling, before moving to Teddy “Teddy, how’s my favourite ruler of space? Hm?” 

“Oh, just swell I think. Dealing with fundamentalist rebel spies while being like the way more benevolent version of the Empire, normal stuff” Teddy replied rather bashfully, still not over who he was in the precesnce of even after all these years. Wanda looked at him confused “Sorry, we’re binging the movies again, caaaaause…. we got a little one. Your soon-to-be soul-grandson” Zack waved at her shyly, as Wanda took a second to process it, before her face lit up with a smile. 

“Oh, congratulations boys!” she cheered, rushing to hug them both “I was hoping for an explanation. I could sense the presence from the second he walked into the door" She pulled away to bend down to greet the little boy "Well hello there, what’s your name?” 

"Z-Zack.." the boy answered shyly. 

“Za’k, like Zack. We took him in when his place-of-stay kinda leveled. He has no other family, but he’s really taken to us” Billy explained to her as briefly as he could. It was a long story. 

“I can tell. I can sense bonds between people. The one between you and Teddy is infinite, and the one with Zack grows closer to it by the day” Wanda explained rather cheerfully and proudly. That seemed to please the boy. 

“Ya!” Zack cheered adorably in agreement, nibbling on his thumbnail as he looked around the room again, his eyes widening at every new object he was fascinated by. “Da-Daddies, may I pwease expwore?” he asked as politely as he could. 

“No no, sweetie. Not until we’re done with your reading” Billy replied, holding him by the shoulders in front to keep him still “Zack, this is your grandma, or one of them. She’s my mom, and she’s magical just like us!” 

“It is a pleasure to meet you, your future majesty. Welcome to the family” Wanda greeted, curtsying playfully despite Billy trying to get people to stop that. Zack smiled awkwardly, and tried to curtsey himself. Hard to grab onto his shortails like a dress though. 

“So yeah, speaking of, we’re here to get a lil, magic CAT scan? Zacky here has been showing some magical abilities of his own” 

“Purple sparklies!” Zack added, making grabbing motions with his hands, making everyone both snicker and coo. 

“Yes, purple sparklies. And teleporting” Billy continued happily, giving the rugrat a hair ruffle. 

“And levitation” Teddy also listed, which he may have forgotten to inform Billy about. 

“For real? You’re a whole package, bubba” He cooed at Zack, giving him little neck tickles to make the little one squirm in a giggly mess. Wanda smiled and gestured to the sofa by the fire. 

“Come this way please, Zack. Sit in the recliner” she said, guiding her guests to the couches. Zack was helped up to the recliner chair by his dads, who sat down on the big sofa next to it. Zack reached out for Billy, who held his little hand affectionately. Wanda set the recliner back and moved to stand behind Zack’s head, lowering her hands to be next to his ears “Just relax, this won’t hurt a bit. Just expect head tingles” Red magic glowed around Wanda’s hands, and soon surrounded Zack like an aura. Zack was anxious, gripping into Billy’s hand tighter, and he was breathing heavily. 

“It’s ok sweetie, don’t be scared” Teddy assured quietly, reaching around Billy to join in on the hand holding. 

“Sowwyyy” Zack apologised sweetly, but was visibly very sleepy from the relaxation. Wanda focused her mind for a minute, everyone waiting patiently for the diagnosis. Teddy moved his hand to be on Billy’s shoulder to support him, feeling like he was freaking out as well. Billy felt the same, putting a hand on his husbands thigh, looking at each other with an optimistic smile. Finally, the red aura dissolved, and Zack slowly blinked to be more awake. 

“I’m done. I’ll need to go find some books first” Wanda began, before vanishing in the blink of an eye. Teddy was startled, his head moving all around to locate her, only for Wanda to reappear in front of them with three heavy books. She flopped them onto Billy’s lap, who definitely wished it was Teddy instead with that weight “Here, some light reading” 

“Extraterrestrial Sorcery: The Complete Guide to the Universe, Book for Magical Children Vol 1 and 2… uh, can it be an audiobook?” Billy asked jokingly, skimming through the books. He was relieved there were at least pictures. 

“Afraid not. But I can give you the basics right now” Wanda continued, taking a seat to her sofa chair “Zack is a developing natural child sorcerer. However I can’t tell if he was born with it, or he was given the gift. It’s hard to tell with most children who display magical abilities this early” 

“I don’t think it matters, unless there’s like, a curse or anything” Billy replied, a tad anxiously before Wanda put it to ease. 

“If there was, I’d know” she assured “At this point, his abilities are unstable and emotion-based. Luckily he has one of the most skilled sorcerers in the universe for a father to help him harness it” Billy nodded enthusiastically. 

“Yeah, I can do that. It’d just be like all the lessons I’ve learned over the years. Thank you” he replied warmly, and Wanda nodded in appreciation. 

“It’s not a problem, Billy. I love you boys, I don’t need a prophecy or crystal ball or whatever to know you’re gonna be great parents. I’m sure of it” Wanda said happily. 

“Like I said to my other mom, I learned from the best” Billy replied, but Wanda seemed more apprehensive about that one. 

“Oh, I’m not so sure about that, She raised you” she said quietly, not at all bitter but still visibly torn up about it. She brushed it off, her smile returning “Please do keep me updated on his progress. It’s sorta my thing now” Billy and Teddy nodded in unison, allowing the moment to pass. 

“Will do. But till then, there was another thing we gotta ask” Teddy replied, motioning to Billy to finish.

“We’re hosting an adoption ceremony, on the Throneworld, before a Tevilah ceremony here on Earth with my family. Since, you know, he wasn’t born Jewish” he explained “You’re definitely invited to both, you and the Visions. That is, if you got time?” Wanda beamed and nodded. 

“It’d be my honour, I look forward to it” she confirmed, before standing up. Billy and Teddy took it as a queue to do the same, while helping their sleepy son off the recliner. Wanda gestured towards the staircase “Come, I’ll make some tea. I want to know everything” 

 

---

 

2 days later....

The ceremony was a huge success. The Alliance was more popular than ever thanks to the news of the adopted prince. The event was televised to every world that had access to it, but everyone on Throneworld flocked in person to see. Seeing the crowds of mixed Kree and Skrull alike, was one of the most blessed things Teddy had seen. The portal network allowed for many of Earth’s heroes to also find time to be there, the former Young Avengers getting the front row seat of course. And they were among the first to stand on their feet to cheer when the bells started chiming and the fireworks going off in celebration. 

Zack was taking it surprisingly well, but the little one was rather quiet for that part of the day, easily startled by the loud noises and the formality of the situation. He wore this fancy suit much like Teddy’s, with a long red cape dragging behind him. He was very nervous, nibbling his thumbnail while nodding along to every vow he had to say yes to. Teddy really didn’t like having to have a child go through that much of a spotlight on him, but it was the only way it could be legal in the council’s eyes. The documents were signed, the vows were said, and soon Zackary Kaplan-Altman was now his official name. 

The afternoon tea of an after party was rather standard. Much like a weddings, except the reason why everyone was there was an exhausted baby boy who just wanted to play with his toys, or just a simple nap. He demanded uppies from his dads, each time using it as an opportunity to nap on their shoulder. It was only a couple hours before the parents called it off so their son could nap before his third visit to Earth. He got a couple hours, but on the yacht ride to Earth, his energy seemed to be restored. Back to his bubbly adorable self again now he was away from crowds. Billy promised the family ceremony would be much smaller of a ceremony, so he wouldn’t be as nervous. 

The tevilah ceremony was a lot of fun for the whole family. The Kaplan’s couldn’t stop cooing over Zack, even the minimum number of great-aunts and uncles present didn’t mind the blue skin, pointy ears and wrinkled chin as much as Teddy thought. Nor the same for Billy’s big green husband, if anything it was a curiosity. It was more Tommy trying to redirect the centre of attention back to him by talking everyone’s ear off. It was a bit of a mouthful as to why he and the Maximoffs were there. 

Billy tried to make the actual mikveh part more fun, wearing his sparkly galaxy speedo which got all the teasing catcalls from the family. Zack was the same, but unlike Billy, his nerves came back again. He’d never been around that much water before, and playfully splashing didn’t help much. But Billy cradled him safely, calming his nerves as he read out the Hebrew texts, before getting the boy under the water and up again as quick as possible. He was shaking a little, but the hug he got from Billy meant he did good, which of course lifted his spirits a bit. It wasn’t exactly necessary for the conversion, just a precaution. All that mattered was being a part of the family. But thank gods he can shapeshift so the other procedure wasn’t necessary. 

Once it was all said and done, it was time to go home. It was late, even with the different planet rotation. The new official family wandered into their wing, ready to fall asleep on the carpet. Of course Mister Mistoffelees was there to greet them, meowing both as an affectionate greeting and a demand for more food. Billy filled it up with a small portal again, while Teddy picked Zack up to put him to bed. Billy turned on the TV, switching to the late night news programs. Co’nn, his favourite Kree late night talk show was on at least. With a familiar face as the guest. 

“So, Marvel Boy, one question seriously on everyone’s minds… how much shorter do your shorts go?” Co’nn asked Noh, with the audience laughing in the background “I mean, I’d expect that from at your arch nemesis’s funeral, but a royal adoption ceremony is big step up” Noh just shrugged. 

“Well, you know, I like to be able to move around. And that includes royal adoption ceremonies, never know what might happen” he replied casually, pulling a Basic Instinct with his legs crossing “But can you trust the Guardians of the Galaxy to handle it. Plus, my husband likes them” 

“Can we also trust you’re not a boxers guy huh? Cause man are those short” Co’nn joked, and Noh shook his head chuckling. 

“Nope, not anymore. Briefs, jocks, thongs or nothin at aaaall. You decide!” he answered with a wink, making the whole audience pull a wooooo “I’m joking, mostly, I’m still a lil tipsy from the after party. I just like to have fun, you know. I didn’t wanna, like, upstage my friends or anything” 

“Oh no you didn’t. Wayyy more people were talking about how adorable the new prince is. Should we expect any from you and Hercules?” Co’nn asked him, and Noh just smiled at the camera. 

“Well, you never know. We’ll keep trying, fingers crossed” he replied with a fingers crossed gesture “But I know to many manyyy people Hercules is already daddy anyway, haha” 

“What a clown” Billy commented with a snicker, switching the channel to news stations. Some Skrull entertainment reporter lady was gushing over the news on one channel. 

“Oh my gosh, I just cannot explain enough how amazing this is. To see the royal family so much more connected, and happy. It’s so wholesome, I look forward to all the social media updates” 

Billy smiled as he switched to another. He couldn’t help it, he was curious. The next channel had two Kree panelists, which isn’t always unimanious. Billy braced himself. 

“-I still believe that it was a mistake to not be of royal blood. How do we know that this half-breed’s family won’t come to gain power?” the male Kree panelists said, rather angrily. Billy had to clench his jaw, fighting with himself if he wants to switch it over 

“It’s been settled by law that they have no right to it anymore, if they are alive” a female Kree replied, looking tired of the other’s bullshit “So you or anyone else doesn’t need to worry about it. Just enjoy our alliance having a clear future, an adorable one at that” the male Kree rolled his eyes briefly before shrugging.

“I just don’t get it. And what’s with the Earthling religion they’re dragging him into-” 

“Okayyy, enough of you. Please more good news” Billy begged, while fighting his own internal anger. He was well past caring what other people thought of him, but it didn’t mean he couldn’t feel the sting of being one of the only pure Earthling’s in this Alliance. But all negative emotions were washed away with a recap of the crowd reactions. The camera going around the streets of the capital, showing people holding signs and cheering happily as Billy, Teddy and Zack walked out onto the balcony. So many people were actively tearing up and crying out affection to them, it was deafening in person “Well, I guess we’re popular enough” Billy said quietly to himself, satisfied, before turning the TV off. Mister Mistoffelees was back, rubbing against Billy’s leg for attention “Come on, Mister. Let’s go to bed” Billy picked the cat up, who purred the whole way to Zack’s bedroom. The door was open, and Teddy was kneeling on one side of the bed, reading Zack a Mister Men book. 

“Whoops!” said Mister Strong, and started cooking his lunch. And for lunch he was starting with eggs. Followed by an egg or two…” Teddy read aloud, showing Zack the book pictures as he read, letting Zack read the words as he went. Zack was seriously invested, holding onto his blankie and teddy bear stuffie as he looked on. Billy smiled and plopped Mister Mistoffelees onto the bed, who immediately crept up to knead the area above Zack’s shoulder. 

“Mister Mistoffels! You came just in time…” Zack greeted happily, patting the purring kitty as it kneaded. Billy sat down on the other side of the bed to get a good view. 

“Ok, And then for his pudding he was having….”  Teddy continued “Well? Can you guess? Well, if you can, there’s no need to turn this page over to find out he was having…” 

“Eggs! Eggs! Eggs!” Zack sleepily chanted, before a purple sparkly appeared in his hand, only to reveal an egg in his hand. Everyone was utterly bewildered by it, before just cracking up with laughter. 

“Well, we know what’s on the menu for tomorrow” Billy chuckled as he took the egg from Zack, warping it away to the fridge downstairs “Maybe you’ll be as strong as daddy after all those eggs” 

“Maybeee, strong like-like daddy. And-And magically like papa!” Zack suggested happily, lifting his arms up, flexing one and twinkling his fingers with the other. It was super endearing for everyone there, except maybe Mister Mistoffelees who wanted the bed to stop shaking. 

“Perhaps, but you won’t get anywhere without a bit of goodnight sleep, young man” Teddy replied, putting the book away on the shelf, much to Zack’s sulkling. 

“Aww, ‘notha one!” he whined sleepily, his yawn a few seconds later betraying him. Teddy just smirked and wandered back over to the bed, kneeling down to give his son a kiss on the cheek. Billy timed it well to do the same on the other cheek, making their son giggle to the extent of his sleepiness could manage. 

“Nope, have to wait till tomorrow night. It’s time for Mr Sleepy, which is you, ok?” Teddy replied, and Zack couldn’t fight it any longer. 

“Okayyy… *yawn* ni-ni daddies…” Zack sighed, as he scooted down into his blankie, turning his face to be next to the purring cat. His bear stuffie in the other arm. Teddy and Billy made it to the door, before Zack called out to them. “I-I love youu, so-o much!” Both dad’s eyes started to tear up instantly, and they beamed. 

“We love you too, Zacky, so so much. Thank you for coming into our lives” Billy replied back with as much certainty as his choked up throat could manage. It just meant the world to both of them to hear Zack say it, unprompted still. A reminder he chose them to be his parents, and they’ll cherish it every day for the rest of their lives. 

“Good night, our sweet little prince” Teddy added, smiling at him one last time for the night, before he and Billy departed for their own bed. They just stripped then cuddled, looking up at the ceiling together. They couldn’t really sleep, their reality was so good at that moment. All they could dream about was to imagine how wonderful their lives were going to be now as parents, something both of them had wanted so bad. And it only took a day for it to begin to come true. 

Notes:

Thanks so much for reading! I made it short, since I learned my lesson on writing big multi-chapter fics, they can really burn me out. But it is part of a series or collection, I'll add any sequel series or one-shots to it when they come to me. Plus all my Marvel fics are part of the same universe anyway.

I do have a sequel planned, where Billy and Teddy adopt a mutant orphan from Krakoa to be Zack's big brother. It'll hopefully be a ton of fun.

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 1 of Marvel Earth 181 - Billy and Teddy