King of Emerald: Before you continue, this is MAJOR SPOILER area. This will be spoiling plot points that I plan to include in my main story on my account. If you want to find these out for yourself, then please, turn around, go back to the Teen Titans category, and I will see you on the main account. Remember... you have been warned.

So, a year back, we sent Edward to the Prime Universe, or the original universe where Solor never meets Edward, which is set in my main account. I figured, he should at least see the fruits of Solor's labor, should they never have met... or should Edward not have existed.

As per usual, I own Solor, Susie, and the dragons that originated in this universe, while my good friend, Splinter, is the owner of Edward, Cally, and David.

(Read "Transplanted Dragon" first as this is a direct sequel to that story. Also, in King of Emerald's account, read "Return of the Dragon". While the other stories are mentioned for continuity purposes, it's not needed to read them all.)

XxXxXxX

Edward writes...

I've heard some surprising news from the Circle today. The Prime Universe, the one that Nightmare sent me to over ten years ago, is accessible again. And Sol wants me to do a recon mission on it, to see what differences have shaped our own history. I admit... I've got mixed feelings on this one. I know that Solor would have done well on his own, and would eventually learn to control his anger with the help of his friends, but I wonder what else has changed because of my interference, despite the fact I tried not to change things too much.

The other thing I have to worry about is the fact that these Titans will have no memory of me. Vicky explained it to me a long time ago; the universe closed itself off to repair any 'damages' I may have caused. If I go back, the same thing might happen again, but I can't really say no to a direct order from Grand Fire, seeing that I'm his heir...or the Circle for that matter.

Solor is telling me to be careful. Since no one in this universe will remember me - hell, it'll be like I was never there to begin with - they may be hostile to me. I'll have to earn their trust again, but hopefully this time won't be as difficult. I can only pray I won't have too much culture shock when I arrive as I did last time.

I kind of wish they had waited until my vacation was over...but, duty calls.

[Crossover Universe - Titan's Tower]
[A month into Edward's vacation]

Solor paced the floor slowly. "I don't like this."

"None of us like this, son", Sol told his Heir. "But for the balance of this world and the other, we must send someone to explore it. It is not often that we can discover a Prime Universe, and we usually send one of our own to explore it. They used to be plentiful, but now it's a rare sight if we see one in a thousand years."

"But why does it have to be Edward?" Solor asked. "Why not send me?"

"Because as far as we can tell, Edward did not have a counterpart there. If any of us go, it would be especially dangerous if we cause our counterparts some trouble. It may mean that no one else could go in without shutting off our way back to it for another thousand years", Sol said. "The more we can learn, the better we can understand how it - and all universes in general - work."

Solor grumbled and fell silent, but it was obvious he still didn't like the idea of risking his brother. The three dragons were on the roof of Titan's Tower, with Edward remaining silent most of this time. He was still weighing the options, and what could possibly be awaiting him on the other side of the tear. He had already spoken to Rachael, and while she didn't like it either, at least she was reassured he would only be gone a few days to a week at the most. Then, he'd resume his vacation in his home universe.

Edward said, "I have been wondering what happened to that version of Solor for a long time. I know he was on the verge of asking his Kreinyol out after his 750th Hatching Day. But, if this universe did reset itself, all that is likely erased from history. I can also see Dad's logic here. There will be twins to the Circle there, and, possibly they will not be as 'friendly' as the current Circle is in this universe. The thing is, somewhere, there was a split in these universes. There's the Prime universe, this one and the one that the Circle - whichever version - shipped me to. I know I would love to find out one way or another. I'll have my Communicator with me that will keep the line open to the Tower and Lair here. I'm not making that mistake again."

Solor said, "I still do not like this."

Edward sighed, "Brother, this is my first major solo tasking for the Circle since your return and, didn't you sort of teach me that when the Circle gives an assignment or a mission, that it cannot be refused? Especially when they ask an heir. I should be OK there. If I can manage to keep any interference to the absolute minimum, this Prime Universe even though it will reset itself again, may not be closed off for a thousand years. Needless to say, this would be my priority mission and I would have to avoid any Teen Titan missions there. And, this time, I may have to actively return to Lair and hope that I am not attacked.

"I'm just lucky that Rach is so understanding that this is interrupting the vacation and the girls are as well. Considering that this is happening after the girls' summer break is a plus. They all understand, especially Yolstav, that even if I wanted to, I really cannot refuse an assignment from the Circle.

"Father, do you have anything I should prepare for? Even some 'educated guesses' would be of use. I know that things there will be different. And, part of me does hope that if I did have a counterpart, that he (or she) has decided to stay hidden, even then when my twin is of use. But, if not, that is just as good...it might be best for that universe to not have an Edward J. Barnes, resident immortal dragon, there."

Sol shook his head. "I do not know, Edward... this is a Prime, what started our own. I don't know what differences there are, or if it's parallel with our own in timeline. It might be at the same point as us, or it might be at an earlier point or later. There are so many mysteries on how this would work. For all I know... the war with Darkness is still going on." He then scratched his chin gently, before making a decision. "If you can... try to come into contact with that Solor. If you can convince him that you are not an enemy - bring up his mother's words to him, about the brightest star - then it will make your job easier. Besides, no matter what, we'll be cut off again from it for some time, but if it's at the same point as us this time, it won't be as long, and we may be able to find more time sooner.

"You could delay this mission, if you want. As long as no one goes there, it'll stay accessible."

Edward nodded, "I was there for almost three weeks last time, and that resulted in a nearly decade long sealing of a barrier. Granted, that is of little use, if I can keep my recon mission to under a week with as little interference as possible, there is a slight chance that this barrier may not last as long. I'll take both versions of the communicator with me. That way, I should be able to gain some trust using that. Solor, you remember after our initial encounter, right?

"But, I think that I should get this out of the way and show the Circle that I do place a priority on an assignment from my people's government."

Solor nodded, "Of course. After our initial skirmish, I showed the team my communicator and that helped open the door to today."

Sol smiled, "Well played, Solor! That might work over there as well. I take it you did that before, Edward?"

"I had to," Edward said, "Being stuck over there with the non-enhanced communicator sucked, but, I knew that when Robin and the team saw that, it would also unlock the door. It also gave me a long look at how the other Starborn was. It took some getting used to...Over here, Solor accepted my mentorship and he turned out to be a damn good Heir and dad to his kids."

"But over there, you mentioned that my counterpart was as stubborn as I used to be", Solor told him. "He enjoyed his life as a Titan, true, but the thought of returning to Lair as an Heir angered him, and he was unwilling to speak to his father without needing a really good reason to. Even though he wasn't willing to risk asking out his Starfire, he would only return to become a soldier. As much as he was like me, I fear that his personality might be drastically different this time around."

Sol nodded. "Indeed. Edward, be very careful this time around, and remind yourself that this is not your brother you are interacting with. He will be an ally in your mission, but should you call him your family by mistake, it may undo your work."

"No kidding!" Edward said, "I slipped up there once and he dressed me down for it. He wasn't overly angry, but, his point was very clear: We were not brothers in any sense of the word. I will not make that mistake a second time.

"And, yes, this was/is the original Solor who told you to go to Hell, dad. He wanted nothing to do with being the Heir of Light, so, your counterpart is either hoping that Starborn reconsiders one day or he will be forced to select another Heir. Maybe over there Sosfil did get her heart's desire after all...First help them if that's the case."

Sol sighed, nodding. "First help them all, if that's true." He looked at his watch. "We've been dallying long enough, my sons. If we don't start now, I may try to change my mind here. Edward, you have both of the communicators, correct?" When Edward showed them off, he nodded, before opening a Tear. "If you must, then contact us, but do not let anyone in the Prime Universe see us. We're not supposed to interfere besides in bringing you back in an emergency. Understood?"

"Perfectly," Edward said, "I'll record what I can, but, that will be risky in itself, so, if I feel that it would blow my cover, I may not get as much recorded as I would like to present to the Circle. But, I've got a great memory regardless...so, it will be OK regardless. I'll send over progress reports as needed, though.

"May the First watch over us all."

With that said, Solor gave Edward a silent hug, wishing him luck mentally, and the hybrid stepped into the portal, letting it close behind him. However, he quickly learned that he should have been a tiny bit more careful, because the moment he had stepped into the Prime Universe (where Terra's Grave had been in his own), a pointed object was placed against the base of his skull.

"Identify yourself", came a familiar young voice. "Tear usage is unauthorized in this area by the Circle, as this sector already has a guardian. Hands up, slowly." Despite how familiar it sounded, he couldn't place who was talking because of her low tone, and her lack of inflection.

Son of a... figures I get caught immediately, Edward thought to himself. "My name is Edward Barnes", he said, holding his hands up carefully. He knew if he moved suddenly, that would risk in him being attacked. "I'm looking for... Solor, the Teen Titan?"

The voice was silent, and for a second, the pointed object at his neck lessened the pressure. "What business do you have with him?"

"I'm a friend", Edward said. "Or... I was... it's complicated. Please, can you contact him, whoever you are? I mean you no harm."

Another pause, before he felt the point being pulled away. He turned, and was shocked to see a teenage girl staring back at him. Her hair was shorter, and her skin was paler, but he recognized those red eyes right away.

[Dad?] came a sudden voice in his head. He had to bite his tongue to keep from acting in surprise at the fact that she was hijacking his link to Raven. [Do you know an... Edward Barnes? He says he knows you... or he did at one point.]

[Can't say I do], came Solor's reply. [Bring him to the Tower, Susie. I would like to see him for myself.]

"Come with me," she said, "I warn you...any false moves and you will regret it."

"You have my full cooperation, miss?" Edward said. He was stunned to know that there was a twin to Susie here, but, clamped down on the feeling.

"My name is not important," Susie snarled, "Not now. Let's go."

They walked out of the cave and Edward silently noted that Terra's statue was not there and it looked like it never had been. There were a few things that said it had been Slade's hideout, but, the equipment was smashed and useless.

Slade used this in the past, yet, I think Terra may either be with the team or something else happened to her, Edward thought, I have to play it cool. This is Soskrein, yet, it's not. She's a lot harsher than my goddaughter is.

"Keep moving," Susie said, "Follow my directions."

"Of course," Edward said.

She narrowed her eyes at him, wondering why he was being so cooperative. But soon, she place a hand on his shoulder gently. "Now... don't move." With that, her red eyes began glowing. "Azarath... Metrion... Zinthos." For a second, they were surrounded by Darkness, and Edward felt a familiar sensation, how Raven always had carried her team, and when it vanished, they were in the Ops Center. "Solor will be here shortly... but you are strange. Why do you feel like both a Light and a Darkness dragon at the same time?" she asked him. "And don't deny that you aren't one, I can smell it."

"Then, I won't deny that is what I am," Edward said with a sigh, "I would like to wait and explain when Solor arrives, though. It will save time, that's all."

Susie glared for a moment before nodding, "I suppose that will do, Dragon. You might as well take a seat until Solor arrives. I will tell you ahead of time: I can tell when someone is lying to me."

Oh, First! Edward thought, erecting some mental shields to block the link in case it still worked with Raven, Susie is Raven's daughter?

Speak of the devil, Raven was the next to enter. Her hair had grown longer, tied up into a ponytail, but her face was the same. And if her outfit had changed at all, it was hard to tell; she still wore the blue cloak she had started wearing with the team. Solor was right behind her, and he looked much more aged this time around. His green eyes showed a kind of tiredness he hadn't seen before, but Edward could see a similar compassion he was used to seeing in his own brother. "So, you are Edward Barnes?" Solor asked, walking forward. "I apologize if Susie did anything that would upset you; she has a hard time trusting new Dragons."

"Dad, not in front of him!" Soskrein complained, her cheeks heating up.

"Susie, what were you doing in one of Slade's old hideouts?" Raven asked. It sounded like she was showing a bit more emotion, showing actual concern this time.

"I sensed a Tear", Susie commented. "I arrived immediately and caught him walking through one. Only Dark Dragons are dumb enough to use any near the city anymore."

"Soskrein", Solor said carefully. "This man here is obviously not a Dark Dragon... or a hostile force of any kind. Stand down." Susie nodded, moving into a more relaxed pose and sitting down in a chair nearby. "Now, Edward... what are you doing so close to Jump City? I asked the Circle to not send any more dragons here."

Edward raised an eyebrow, "I am not upset over Susie's reaction. I may have done the same thing, actually.

"Since she said that she can tell if someone being questioned is lying, I shall be truthful. I just ask that you hear my story, because, you will find it difficult to believe.

"As Susie noted, I am a Dragon. But, I am not native to this universe. I come from another universe that is close to this one."

"Who sent you, then?" Solor asked.

"I was sent by the Circle," Edward replied, "Not the Circle of this realm, though. There are counterparts in my realm who asked me to undertake this mission. I assure you that I mean you no harm."

"How can we be sure of that?" Solor asked, "I can sense the Darkness within you along with the Light."

"In my realm," Edward said, "I am a Titan. Yes, I have Dark Dragon DNA within my body as well as the Light. You need not worry about my inner Darkness. I have mastered it and it will be of no threat to you."

"You're a Titan?" Raven asked, "I sense no deception within you, yet, we need some proof."

Edward reached into his pocket and pulled the old style communicator out and put it on the table.

Solor reached over and picked it up, "It certainly looks real enough." He considered opening a channel, but, decided against it, not knowing if there was any hidden surprises.

"I'll believe you... for now", Solor said. "So, you are a Titan in your Universe... and you've come to visit us. Why?"

"I was sent for recon only", Edward told him. "Grand Light was hoping that we could learn more about how Universes work if I was brought here, to learn where ours split off from yours. I'm on a fact-finding mission, nothing more. No invasions will happen. You have my word in the Name of the Light on that."

Solor nodded. "Well, then if that's what you want, you are welcome to stay in our Tower. I'll have to let Nightwing know that you'll be staying with us, and we'll set up a guest room for you."

[Love, do you sense any lying?] he asked Raven, glancing at her briefly.

[He's clean], Raven replied. [I don't sense any malicious intent... but he does have a bit of a shield up. What for, I have no idea...]

"Why are you blocking some parts of your mind?" she asked.

Edward sighed, "Because in my realm...Raven is my wife and has been for almost 15 years. We are telepathically linked. I merely blocked the link in case you and Solor are on the same wavelength. Actually, there's no in case. I can hear your telepathic communications as easy as we are talking aloud. I also heard Susie talking to you."

"Is that why you were so willing to cooperate?" Susie asked.

"That, and I needed to show you that I meant no harm," Edward said, "My apologies if this is a discomfort, though."

Edward risked lowering the shield and projected, [There, to show you that I have nothing to hide, I have dropped that shield for now.]

All three of them were shocked to hear Edward's voice in their heads, but Solor recovered first. "Well... that was unexpected... but, since you seem to know why I can speak to Raven so easily, I'll be honest with you as well. I have been married to Raven for ten years now. I assume that is also a major difference in this universe you have come from?"

"A major difference," Edward admitted, "Over there your counterpart and Starfire are married and have two children. The first is Susie's counterpart and the other is Komi. They are half-sisters, actually."

Edward thought it would be a wise idea not to use Starfire's other name in front of this Solor. For now, Solor was not the same as he was before in this realm, and Edward did not want to risk any negative reactions.

"Out of curiousity," Solor asked, "How many missions have you undertaken for your Circle?"

"This is the first one I've been tasked with on a solo basis since I became an Heir," Edward said.

"You're an Heir?" Solor asked, "Did you replace my counterpart there?"

"Actually, that's another major difference," Edward admitted, "Starborn - I'll use that for my realm's Solor - and the Grand Light repaired their relationship and he was restored to his position voluntarily. I have a feeling that you, however, will not follow that path. Before you get too annoyed, I completely understand and respect that you have taken a different path. My mission parameters do not include interference in your life path, even if it were possible. A friend told me once that the First sets the path one walks upon and each path is different. Actually, I am here to observe and record for my universe's Lair without interference. Sadly, once I depart, all of you will forget I exist and that I was, for all purposes, never here at all."

"I suppose I should be angry," Solor said, "But, you're correct: This is the path I have chosen. When he and the Circle banished me, I did renounce that title. I wanted nothing more than to be a mere soldier... but actions in this universe changed my mind. I am still the Heir of Light here as well, Edward. I will explain what happened once I have heard enough.

"You mentioned Starborn has two children, though? Tell me about them, please."

"Well, the oldest is also named Soskrein, as I mentioned," Edward said, "Over there, like here, she's a hybrid. But, unlike a hybrid of you and, I think, Raven; she is a mix of Light and Dark Dragons. Starborn is the dad, as I mentioned. Her mother is Vilea, Heiress to the Darkness."

That got a visible reaction out of Solor! "How is that possible?! I would never stoop to willingly mate with the Darkness, ever!" He didn't say anything about Edward's assumption that Raven was Susie's biological mother yet.

"Trust me...Starborn was tricked into mating with her," Edward said, "She preyed on his desire to be with Starfire and captured Starborn.

"She tricked your twin into the act, but, she goofed up. She mentioned that she should be marked, like I see you have done with Raven. Thing is, Starfire didn't know that little detail. So, Vilea dropped the disguise...and over the next week, raped him repeatedly. She drugged him as well. She broke him in mind and body. He was able to escape and be rescued by his Titans. Grand Light was eventually called and he requested my assistance."

"Please continue," Solor said, "I am curious."

"Well, I have to back up a little bit, because, if I don't all of you will be confused. There is a third universe in play here: My home universe and the universe I have mentioned. Starborn was at one point, yanked into my home the same way I came here: A Tear of Oblivion. Vilea had possessed the native Raven to use a Tear. I won't bore you with the nitty gritty, but, after a rough start, that Starborn and I became best friends...one might even say brothers depending on how one looks at it.

"But, getting back to what I was saying, I went to help Starborn and with two Ravens, myself, and Starfire, we were able to repair his mind...his spirit took longer to heal.

"Vilea laid three eggs. One whelp was killed to delay Trigon's summoning into that plane of existence. The second one, though, was sacrificed to successfully summon Trigon. Starborn and I kicked Trigon's...backside and we banished the demon for good."

"Is the war between our clan and Darkness still going on?" Solor asked.

"No," Edward replied with a smile, "Lair won. After Trigon was removed, the Traitor showed up and went on a rampage. But, he underestimated something badly: He insulted Starborn's choice of mate in Starfire. Starborn proved his ancestry by vaporizing the Traitor. Solor, you are descended from the First Light himself."

"My twin used a Primal Blessing?" Solor asked, "Incredible. That's not supposed to be possible, period. Then again, considering who you're talking about here..."

"Our Solor very nearly died," Edward admitted, "But, by then, Soskrein had hatched and, I like to think that his love for Starfire and Susie kept him here.

"Susie's a wonderful teenager, Solor. A lot different than here...No offense Soskrein."

"Being offended is pointless," she retorted, sounding like her mother. Edward gave a warm laugh.

"So much like your mom," Edward explained, "You see, in my home...Raven and I have two daughters. Callisto is half-dragon, quarter human and quarter Trigon...same as you, I dare say.

"My other daughter is Yolstav. She's a dragon of the Fire Clan who I love dearly."

"And my counterpart's second daughter?" Solor asked.

"Half Dragon, half Tamaranian," Edward said. Solor's eyes widened and he said, "You're joking, right? That's not supposed to be possible."

"Yet, is your Susie fully dragon?" Edward said, "Komi's different. Let me show you, though. It's a little hard to describe."

"You morph?" Solor realized, "Then, it's obvious since you're also a Dragon."

Edward nodded and said, "Just watch."

As they watched, Edward assumed Komi's form, getting the jaws to drop.

"And the Circle is OK with this?" Solor asked.

"100% OK with it," he replied after morphing back, "For a while, we were worried that the Circle would order her death, but, this is a kinder Circle in Starborn's universe."

"I see," Solor said, with a small smile on his face.

"Oh, don't get me wrong," Edward said, "The Circle there is still in charge fully. They are more willing to make exceptions at times...other times, they are still quite strict. I've seen dragons punished harshly. Some were exiled anywhere from a couple of years to lifetime exile."

"What about the Breed Traitor law?" Solor asked.

"Repealed," Edward replied, "That is a long story, in and of itself."

Solor nodded, bringing his claws together. He looked over at his daughter, a flash of distress in his eyes. "Susie, would you please find Silkie? I don't want to find her in my room, eating my socks again." Once the teenager left, Solor turned back to Edward. "Edward, what made you assume that Soskrein is Raven's biological daughter? I am not angry that you assumed wrong, I just want to know what made you decide that."

"Well, the fact that she uses Raven's phrases were convincing as well as her powers", Edward told him. "Plus, she looks a lot like Raven this time around... I'm sorry I guessed wrong."

"Don't be", Solor said, shaking his head. "Susie knows Raven isn't her real mom. She only calls her that because, to her, Raven is her mom... but she doesn't know who her mother is. I... don't know who her mother is, yet, I have a strong hunch."

"How?" Edward asked. "Was she... abandoned?"

Solor nodded. "You see, thirteen years ago, I was working alongside the Titans, during the whole Brother Blood fiasco."

Raven interrupted. "Honey, you don't have to talk about that. I know you don't like to."

"But I do, so that our friend here can understand", Solor said calmly. He took Raven's hand gently, and with the cloak now open, Edward could now see a slightly modified leotard underneath the cloak, allowing some more skin, but not too much. "As I was saying... thirteen years ago, during the Brother Blood fiasco, I was called away for a solo mission. Slade was holding another city hostage, and if I didn't go, he would destroy everything. Obviously, it was a trap. But I went anyway.

"When I arrived, I was attacked and swiftly defeated by a Dark Dragon", he admitted. "I felt something being placed on my neck, and all of a sudden I couldn't move. My body went limp, I couldn't blink or speak... I was a prisoner in my own body. And then... then..." He let out a low sigh, covering his eyes briefly.

Edward said, "You don't have to continue if you don't want to, Solor."

"I got this for a moment, love. He was... harvested", Raven told Edward, for a lack of a better term. "She took as many DNA samples as she could get from him. Blood, saliva, scales, hair, semen... anything and everything she could get her hands on." She sighed, looking at her husband with sad eyes. "The only reason the Titans were able to find him at this point was because I could hear him screaming in his own head, begging to be free from her and Slade. When we did find him and removed the collar, he immediately killed Slade, but the dragoness got away. It took him a month to recover, and even then, he didn't go back on missions until... until my birthday."

Solor nodded thankfully, giving his wife a gentle kiss on the cheek. "Thank you, love. I will continue." He turned back to Edward, who had a look of mixed shock, disgust, and anger on his face. "They used my DNA to create an army of dragons that they call Twilight. They would inject my own genetic code into unborn eggs, and cause mutations within the shell. Then once the eggs hatched, they used magic to force them to grow into adults, then set them loose. Susie... was the only egg I found when I led the Circle's army against the Darkness. And though it angered my father greatly, I refused to kill her. Eventually, he conceded, and allowed me to take her as my own, since my DNA is in her body and her Light side makes me her father now."

"That's why she was able to detect parts of my heritage, then," Edward surmised. He had an idea who had done this to Solor, but, he decided not to say anything about that just yet.

"Tell me," he requested, "Has Trigon made a play for this realm? I know he would have used Raven as the portal on her 18th Birthday. I know that her emotions are freed up, and that requires Trigon's influence be removed."

"He did", Solor said, nodding. "I knew right away, when that mark appeared on Slade's head, that Trigon was coming. I did not know, however, that Raven was the gem at the time. But... I think it was thanks to Trigon that she and I are together now."

"Solor understood the prophecy perfectly well", Raven said, a small smile gracing her lips. "He knew that no matter what the team did, I would eventually give myself up. But before they left me in the panic room, he gave me a hug, and said in my ear, 'Ruuvak, if you go through with this... I will personally kick your dad's ass.' It was so sweet of him at the time, and I didn't know it at that point, but we had grown rather close since my birthday. Once we defeated Trigon and banished him from this realm, we began dating."

"I wouldn't count that one", Solor quipped. "Once our first date was over, I was called back to Lair. I wasn't even here for the Brotherhood of Evil attack."

Edward raised an eyebrow, "You missed all that fun, eh? In my realm, The Brotherhood did the same thing, except the decision was made to remove their targets from the playing field totally. They went to my original universe for a while, frustrating the the Brotherhood's plans a bit. But, in the end, the Brotherhood crossed the line with me and froze Susie. You see, at the time, Starborn had been called away on a secret mission...there was another prophecy that only he was privy to and disappeared for a decade. As I'm Susie's godfather and uncle, I stepped in to raise her. Well, seeing her captured and frozen ignited my Darkness and Mallah and several others got a serious beatdown. Mallah and the Brain tried to escape only to see me intercepting them. That also reactivated some of my other abilities, namely the Blessing of Light. The native Raven told them that they could stand down and surrender or die. They gave up, leading to Beast Boy's bad pun. Susie, since thawed, took offense and smacked Beast Boy...getting a cheer out of the expanded Titans. It was rather funny and had the side effect of getting me to really laugh. I normally would have chastised her, but, I let it slide seeing how the expanded team was cheering her, including Raven. Beast Boy was grumbling that Susie spent too much time hanging around Raven. Imagine Susie annoyed enough to use a Tear to get behind Beast Boy and delivering a perfectly executed 'Raven Slap'."

Solor let out a low chuckle, "For some reason, I can imagine that. But... you mentioned that you are Susie's Uncle, correct? Are you related to her mother or father?"

Edward realized the slight slip up, and sighed. "I'm... both, technically. It's a little complicated, and I'll tell you at one point, but maybe when you and I can talk alone."

"Understood", Solor told him. He then looked at the clock. "Well, it's close to dinner-time. Would you like to stay? I'm making pizza today, and I could use some extra hands."

"I'd take him up on his offer", Raven told Edward, smiling. "He's become a very good cook over the years, and Beast Boy, Cyborg, and Starfire are banned from the kitchen."

"I'd be honored," Edward replied, "You'll get a laugh out of this one...The first meal Starborn and I worked on was pizza. It was a banana, pickle and mint frosting pie. He made it for his K-I mean Starfire. At that time, he did not know how to cook and appreciated the fact that I was willing to show him. Now, he's quite good at it. Let's go."

Solor nodded, beginning to make everything fresh. "If I work on the sauce and toppings, can you work on the dough? Don't worry; if you forget to catch one, Raven will do so for you.

"FYI: I will not be offended if you use Kreinyol for this alternate Starfire, Edward. But, I appreciate the consideration."

Edward laughed, "Been there, done that. I toss a mean dough, but, a few times, my Raven's had to catch it when someone broke my concentration. This will work out fine."

Solor let out a chuckle. "She's had to do the same for me a few times... same reason." He then turned to Raven, smiling apologetically. "Love, would you mind if we called you Ruuvak, to differentiate? I know you think the Dragon Tongue isn't as eloquent as most others..."

"I'm fine with that", she said. "But once Edward goes back home, it's back to Raven."

"Don't have to worry about that", Solor said. "If Edward is right and we are in a Prime Universe, we won't even remember him visiting."

"There's no 'if', actually," Edward said, "Neither of you will remember this, but, I was here before. That time, it wasn't a voluntary mission. A Dark Dragon named Nightmare opened a Tear to punish me for my role in defeating the Traitor, Oblaan. After Susie, of all people, opened a Tear to rescue me, this universe took a decade to allow another attempt to bridge the two. And, that was only after three weeks. This time, I do not plan on staying that long. If I can keep interference to a bare minimum, maybe any barriers won't last that long. It's just a theory I have."

Solor nodded, working on the sauce. "I'm sorry that you had to go through that", he told the hybrid. "And I know of Nightmare... I killed him myself during his own assault on Jump City. The war is over here, but there are still people who mistrust dragons, thanks to him."

Edward said, "In that middle Universe, I challenged Nightmare to Bloodbath. He fought well, but, in the end was no match for my strength and abilities. I shoved my lightning down his Oblivion damned throat, blasting his head off his neck.

"Also, Congrats on winning the war. I know, it's somewhat empty, but, regardless of how it ended, I am glad that the forces of Lair were victorious."

Solor would have commented, but Susie came in, with Silkie perched on her head, taking a nap. "Found her", she said calmly, keeping her head balanced to keep the worm from falling off. The sight was unexpected, and Solor couldn't help but laugh a bit. "She was trying to get into your room again, but I convinced her to take a nap instead. I just forget her favorite spot to nap is on my person."

"You should really talk to Aunt Starfire", Raven commented. "If Silkie is bugging you that much, she should take a little more responsibility with her pet."

"But after she went through all of the trouble to teach the worm to eat Dad's socks all the time?" Susie stated sarcastically. "That would be mean."

Solor sighed, shaking his head. "I apologize, Edward... Starfire and I were almost an item years ago, but after my birthday... we both decided that was a bad idea. I think sometimes she gets mad at me for that day, so she takes small revenges against me, including the socks bit."

Edward smiled, "No worries, Solor. Just another difference to me. In my home universe, her and Nightwing are a couple. In the crossover one...it's you and Starfire. He still calls her Kreinyol and both are very much in love. In fact, it was Starborn picking her as his formal mate that led to the Circle repealing the Breed Traitor law. I'll tell you the story later on, though."

Solor nodded, continuing his work. He had taken out a few tomatoes, mashing them into the sauce. He added spices, including a green pepper to add some more flavor, before mixing it all together. Finally, when Edward was done, he started spreading the sauces. "One of these will need soy cheese; Beast Boy gets mad when I 'forget' to make him a vegetarian dish."

Edward chuckled, "I know the feeling. I usually make two variations of my dinners back home. One for Beast Boy, another for the rest of the guys. Sometimes, I fix a third one...extra meaty for Cyborg. It saves Rachael - my wife - from phasing Beast Boy out the window." Edward chuckled, "Even after all this time, though, he still gets the window treatment, much to Terra's chagrin."

Solor let out another laugh. "I assume they're together, then... nice to see that seems to be a trend here. He's together with his Terra here, as well. Married, as a matter of fact."

"In all three universes, actually," Edward said, "I take it you trained her on controlling her incredible powers?"

"I did", the Prime Solor confirmed. "That's why Slade targeted me... because I stopped him from gaining apprentices, or had a hand in foiling too many of his plans."

Edward smiled, "Same thing in the middle universe, then. Starborn trained her and she's an awesome young lady now. In my home universe, though, she became Slade's apprentice and he trained her instead. But, she paid a horrible price. She took down the Teen Titans and when they regrouped, Terra was defeated. Slade viciously attacked her and she tried to change sides. Slade had given her a neural suit that allowed him to take control over her body. She eventually overcame that and the ensuing fight triggered a volcano. Slade took a lava bath before she stopped the volcano. But, the price was her becoming petrified."

"Wait...if she was petrified, how is she alive now?" Raven asked.

"Part of my heritage is Life Dragon," Edward replied, "I was able to detect faint vibrations in her statue. Rachael and the team combined their life forces to restore her to flesh and blood. Robin had to drape his cape over her."

Solor asked, "You said Life Dragon...You're a hybrid?"

"Yep," Edward said, "I'm a mix of all the clans, actually. My mother was desperate for an egg so she mated with dragons from all the clans."

Solor thought about this. "I've... never heard of such a thing existing. I will have to contact my father. What was this dragon's name, if you do not mind me asking?"

"Which one?" Edward asked, "Most of my sires are with the First. Only one remains, and, Solor...you will be stunned here."

Solor raised an eyebrow, "Go on."

"The one in the middle universe is Feylfil," Edward said.

Solor's eyes widened, his jaw dropped, and he forgot what he was doing, dropping a block of cheese and a grater he had picked up. "You... you're... my brother?"

SHIT! Edward thought.

He sighed, "Solor...I'm sorry. I wasn't supposed to tell you that part. But, yes, we are potentially brothers. I hatched a long time before you, though. That's why you would never remember me in the first place. I was banished as a young whelp, not because I did anything wrong, it was for protection. Listen, I will not be offended if you do not want to see me in that light if it makes things easier for you...and, when this realm resets, you will forget this regardless.

"Something else that you need to know, then...One of my other sires in this realm is Oblaan, the Traitor."

Edward picked up the cheese and grater for Solor, who was totally speechless. Then again, so was Susie!

"You're my uncle?" she asked.

Edward smiled, "I could be, sweetheart. A very proud uncle to someone who in that middle universe, I love as if she were my own daughter."

Susie stammered a bit, looking down. "I...apologize for how I treated you."

Edward said, "Susie...there is nothing to apologize for. You did the right thing. In fact, I would have done the same thing. It's OK, really. I'm not offended at all."

Solor, meanwhile, got up. "I must contact Father... what was your mother's name, if you don't mind me asking? It'll help confirm your story, and perhaps help us determine if there is another major difference here."

"She goes by Nova in my home, but her official name was Iilah", Edward told Solor. "She was Dad's first mate."

"Understood", Solor said, nodding. "Ruuvak, will you...?"

"Of course, dear", she said, walking over and kissing Solor's lips. "I'll let Nightwing know if he comes home before you return."

Susie made a sound of displeasure, and Ruuvak let out a small giggle as Solor left the room. "Soskrein, your father and I have been married for ten years. Don't you think you're being childish to our displays of affection?"

"Don't you think you should suck his face when you two don't have company?" she quipped. Ruuvak only shook her head, smiling gently.

"Sorry, Edward. Susie here thinks us being affectionate to each other is a 'private' thing, so in front of her, we're not supposed to kiss, hug, hold hands... the list goes on. Sometimes I think she's making it up as she goes."

"You should see my two, then," Edward said with a chuckle, "They get all embarrassed when Rachael and I get affectionate. You should see when a Fire whelp is blushing. Yolstav, in her native form, gets really bright red. Callisto doesn't react as much, being part Raven. She tends to keep her emotions under better control."

"Susie could learn a bit from Callisto", Ruuvak teased, causing the young Twilight dragon to turn slightly pink.

"This is not fair..." she commented, crossing her arms.

"You're my daughter, I'm not going to pull any punches with you", the empath said, walking over and kissing Susie's forehead. "Now, go let the boys know we'll be having dinner in about ten minutes; the pizzas are almost done."

"Yes, Mom", Susie said, defeated. She placed Silkie on the couch, before walking off to find the others.

Edward chuckled seeing that. On one hand, it was disconcerting to see Susie calling Raven "Mom", yet, Edward was pleased to see that she even existed here.

Inwardly, though, he was concerned how the other Titans would see him. So far, he's been lucky that this Solor was far more mellow than before. But, as he looked out over the bay into the city itself, it was far different. There were many new buildings, some under construction.

"Raven," Edward said, "Is all this new construction a result of the Dragon's War spilling into the mortal realm?"

She nodded sadly, "I'm afraid so, Edward. The Dark Dragons destroyed much of the city a few years ago, back when the war reached its climax. The Dark Dragons overwhelmed our defenses quickly and they took out most of the taller buildings. Solor tried to get reinforcements from Lair, but, the Dark Dragons had launched a surprise attack around the world, hitting several major cities at once. Even the Justice League could not prevent the destruction that happened that day."

"That sounds bad," Edward said.

"It was bad," Raven replied, "A lot of dragons died that day from all the clans.

"But, we are finally at a relative peace. It took a while, but, after Solor killed Oblaan..."

Solor took that moment to walk in. He knew Edward was, in another Universe, related to him by blood, but this universe held a different story.

"Edward... I managed to come into contact with my father. I mentioned Iilah... and... well, it did not go too smoothly", he told the hybrid. "I'm... not sure you want to hear what happened to her."

"Probably banished or worse, judging from your tone, Solor," Edward said, "Let me hear it. Regardless, I'm sure that my people will want to know."

Solor sighed, motioning Edward to stay seated, before taking a seat himself. "Iilah... never had an egg", he told the hybrid. "She was barren before my father claimed her as a mate. She was so desperate for an egg, she mated with all of the clans... but she produced no child for my father. Ashamed and depressed... she told my father everything... before laying down and allowing herself to die. Father... watched her wither away to nothing, and there were no words to change her mind. She starved herself. I... I'm so sorry..."

Edward tried to hold back his grief, but, hearing that this was NOT his original universe and that the dragon who birthed him had a different history shattered his heart.

"W-w-where can I sing for her?" he asked, "She deserves that much."

"The top of the Tower is ideal for this", Solor told him. "Would you like Soskrein and I to join you? I know... in this universe, we're unrelated... but I know what it's like to lose one's mother as well."

Edward nodded, unable to speak further.

After calling the Twilight whelp to them, Solor brought Edward up to the roof. Ruuvak reluctantly stayed behind, since the rest of the team was starting to come in, and she knew now was not a good time for questions. Once they set up, Solor started the song, knowing Edward would collapse with grief before being able to begin. Soskrein joined next, her own high pitched voice adding to the melancholy moment.

It took several long moments before Edward's deep voice joined in. He knew on one level that he shouldn't be so hurt by this news because of the way the fates work, he simply did not exist here. No possibility of a counterpart in hiding, no chance that a hybrid like him would exist.

In his heart, he knew that he came from that middle universe, then. He wasn't sure which was the Prime universe here anymore.

He sang for Solor's mother as well. That got Solor's attention, but, he waited to ask. He sang for the whelp who should have been born as well...he sang for himself.

When they finished, the rest of the Titans were on the roof. Raven had explained that they had a visitor and what she knew. She finished by saying that they were on the roof, singing the Dragon's Sending Song. The Titans stood in silence, showing their respect for a dragon that they did not know.

Edward finished with the song he learned in Ancient Greece before turning away sadly. He knew that in his universe, the day would come when he would, again, be grieving his mother. Nova had, eventually, told Edward what her mate told her. At the time, Edward took the news in stride, saying, "That...is more time than I thought, actually. We'll make the best of it, Mother."

Solor shifted to his hybrid form, patting Edward's back. "I am sorry... I wish I could offer more than my condolences."

Susie nodded as well, silently. She glanced back to the rest of the Titans, catching Solor's attention.

"Who is this?" Nightwing asked. He sounded a bit more calm than the Middle's own Nightwing, and was obviously not jumping to any conclusions.

"This is Edward Barnes", Solor stated. "He will be staying with us for a few days... he has a mission from the Circle that he must enact here. He is from another universe and this mission is from the Circle's counterparts. In his universe, he is one of us."

"It's nice to meet you, Edward", Starfire said. She was wearing a slightly more conservative form of her original outfit, wearing armor under her top and skirt. "Sister Raven has told us you are a dragon, like Friend Solor, correct? We recognized the song and language... I am sorry for your loss."

Solor sighed gently. "Let's give him some room, please. He's been hit hard with some bad news; go on and eat without us. I'll be down with him soon."

Edward sighed, "It's all right, Solor. Starfire, thank you for your kind words. Yeah, I'm also a Dragon. I assume Raven told you why I am here?"

"She did tell us a few things," Nightwing said, "but, the rest of our questions will wait. We'll save you some pizza."

"Susie, why don't you go ahead," Solor said, "I think I should stay with our guest for a while, just in case."

Starfire, true to form, approached Edward.

"I think you need a hug," she said, "I know friend Solor does not like to be touched without permission..."

"I would like that," Edward said.

Starfire pulled Edward into an embrace and, well, that really broke the dam as Edward started sobbing into her shoulder.

She did the only thing that she could and started humming softly. It was a tune that Edward recognized, though. And, it had the intended effect of calming him down after a few moments.

Solor raised an eyebrow, knowing that a dragon wouldn't show their weakness except in front of family. In his mind, that settled several unasked questions and helped confirm Edward's story. If Edward was willing to sob on Starfire's shoulder, that told Solor that there was, indeed, a link there.

Nightwing went over and said, "I know these words may be empty, but, the team offers their condolences, Edward. As for your mission, the team stands ready to help you, if needed."

Edward looked at this gentler Nightwing and said, "Thanks, man. Your words are not empty and I appreciate them greatly. And, I will need the team's help in the form of input. I'll explain in a bit. I do need a few minutes. And, Star?"

"Yes, new friend Edward?" she asked.

He switched to her language, "Thank you for having such a caring heart. Galfore has taught you well."

She gasped and replied in kind, "You know my language! How?"

"I have a gift of rapid language learning," he replied, "In my home, I learned this from your counterpart."

She smiled and, to Edward, it was almost like he never left...but, he knew that even with all the trappings of his home, he couldn't get overly involved or risk a collapse that not only reset this universe, but, would block attempts to crossover for a very long time.

Starfire turned to Solor, asking in the Dragon Tongue of all things, "Who was he grieving?"

"Iilah and my own mother...and the whelp she tried to have. He is mourning his counterpart", Solor responded, also speaking Dovahzul. "Please don't disturb him now; you may ask questions when we are having dinner together."

"Understood", Starfire finished, bowing her head a bit. She switched back to English, turning to Nightwing. "Downstairs, now. Friend Edward needs some time. We can ask more questions when he's in the better mood."

Before the hybrid could ask, Solor turned to Edward. "At dinner, when everyone has a chance to ask questions. I know you're wondering about Starfire knowing our language, but I'll explain that then."

This was only the beginning of Edward's roller coaster ride in this world... what other big changes were in store for him?