In the early afternoon, Jericho woke up to find that Ambrosia and Robin were missing. Scowling softly, he moved into the bathroom to find Robin placing his mask back over his eyes quickly. Ambrosia was blushing softly, as she had just awoken to the sudden movements.
"Don't steal her from me again," Jericho warned.
"Sorry. I really needed her. I was going to bring her back...but..." he winced.
"Darling, it is fine. He needed to be reconciled. However, I do need to eat," she smiled.
"I'll get you some honey, dear," Jericho said with a nod of mild defeat. Robin was already scooping her up to take her back to the bed, and he dressed quickly.
"I need to get back to the Tower. I overslept," he grimaced.
"Yes, you did. Go. Now!" Jericho urged. Robin now snatched up Beast Boy's groggy cat form and teleported back to the Tower. When he walked out of his room, he was faced with a line-up of his teammates. All of them were not happy.
"Robin! Where were you?!" Raven scowled.
"You were gone again..." Starfire frowned.
"Dude, you gotta stop doing this!" Cyborg muttered.
"Sorry, guys!" Robin sighed deeply and let Beast Boy go to reform into his human self. "I had to train, and it was stopped. There was a big discovery made about Aelfric from Esmiralda. I had to go to Jericho's castle and sleep there to finish my training. I had no choice. Raven, you know this. I told you last night when Control Freak was here."
"Control Freak was here?! Dang it! I'll have to check my defenses now!" Cyborg groaned.
"What was discovered about Aelfric?" Starfire asked.
"He's...destined to be the child of death. Apparently..." Robin said slowly.
"What?" Cyborg blinked.
"But...if that was true...then...how?" Starfire asked with confusion. Beast Boy grimaced and seemed to sigh. He was there when Robin told him about it with Raven.
"It's why Orin tried to have her abort the pregnancy. It's also why Sinlus tried to harm her in her dreams. They tried to stop the pregnancy. Of course, they failed," Robin said with a hard frown.
"Robin, I do not understand. The child of death was to be made with two royal Fae Kings and a royal Fae Queen, yes? How is Aelfric to be this?" Starfire asked now. The others fell silent and looked at each other with worried glances. Robin sighed, as Elvey stepped up to help.
"Starfire, I would like to speak with you privately," he said and gestured to his room.
"Elvey..." Raven warned.
"She is a princess. I will do no harm to her," Elvey said with complete respect in Robin's tone. That made Raven nod, and Starfire moved into Robin's room. When the door closed, Robin turned to look at her with a hard frown. "Starfire, Robin is going to marry you. He loves you very much."
"And I love Robin!" she said. "Please, Elvey, can you tell me what is going on?"
"How much do you love Robin?" he asked softly. She lost her train of thought, as his hand came up to gently wipe away a tear. She blinked her eyes and trembled.
"I..." she shivered, and he pulled her close to kiss passionately. It was easy to glamour her like this. They may not have to get married now, but he promised Ambrosia that it would happen. He had to keep his promise to her. When he pulled away from her, she gave him a look of despair. Did my glamour even work? He wasn't sure now.
"Starfire, I will not touch you again," he said sternly. "The only time I will touch you is when you are safely married to Robin. You are a princess. The things I would do to you would defile you. As royalty, I know this all too well. Do not expect me to touch you tonight, should you see me. I will be in spirit form, and I doubt I could do much, anyways."
"Elvey..." Starfire sighed, but she nodded. "I understand."
"Now, my son is destined to become the child of death. Aelfric, that is. Robin...slipped when he was comforting Ambrosia. We knew this may have happened. Since Robin is a powerful human, he was 'accepted' by Aelfric. It could also have happened, since I am in Robin, too, but I don't know for sure. However, that is how it happened."
"Um...there was something I dreamt of last night," she said with a small frown. "It was of Sinlus. He was at a distance to keep from being tracked by the Tower moon crystals. He...shouted to me that...Robin was no longer mine. I know he is known for lies, but this...felt like a truth..."
"He did what?!" Elvey hissed, and Robin took over. "How far off was he? What direction did he appear from? Do you remember?!"
"Robin..." she said now with concern. "Why are you not telling me if you do or do not belong to me anymore? Do not dodge my question!"
"Star, please, you know how I am with emotions!" he grimaced.
"And you know how I am with mine," she countered.
"I am still yours, Star. You know this."
"But, if Aelfric is going to be the child of death, then clearly you are not mine in full!"
"Star..."
"No! Tell me the truth!" she said.
"A trade instead..." Elvey spoke out with a soft tone, and it caught her up completely. "I will tell you what you want to know. However, you will not lose your love for Robin. With my trade...I will see about giving you a kiss in my spirit form. Will that suffice?"
"Why would I lose my love for Robin? But...I do understand. Very well. I accept the trade," she nodded. Elvey had Robin move close to whisper softly in her ear about how Robin gave himself to Ambrosia. She paled at first, but then realized she had agreed to not lose her love for him. Then she remembered that she would be getting a kiss from Elvey's spirit form. That had her excited.
"So...now you know everything..." he said, as he drew back.
"I have a question," she said. "For Elvey."
"I may have an answer," he nodded.
"Since Robin belongs to Ambrosia, I would like to belong to you."
"Ah...that is not possible. I am in spirit only. It would not work."
"But how are we to fix this, then?"
"When you get married, you could belong to me, in a sense," he mused. "I'll still likely be in Robin's body. As his wife, you would always be at his side. It would be the same for me."
"Oh!" she blinked at this.
"So, in that sense, it could work. You would still be with Robin, and I could be with you, too. But, I cannot be with you physically without Robin's help. However, if you will still marry Robin and love him as he loves you, then I will see what I can do for you."
"I have already accepted the terms," she smiled. He pulled her into a hug, and she found herself sighing with contentment. Robin was just in shock that Elvey glamoured her and it didn't take full effect. The only thing they could think of was that she wasn't a human, and it affected her by calming her down. Giving a mental nod to each other, Robin took over to kiss her hard. Starfire was a bit taken aback by it at first before she gave in. When he pulled back, they clung to each other, and she sighed.
"Let's see what we have to do today, okay? Later tonight, we'll have to go to Stonehenge. Until then, we'll remain calm and know that everything will be fine," he smiled. She nodded and kissed him again before walking out with him. The others had already moved out to do what they wanted to do. As he moved to the main room, he blinked and shook his head. Then he gasped with shock.
"Robin?!" Starfire gasped. "Are you having a fit?"
"No! It's Ambrosia!" he said, as he tried to recollect his thoughts.
"What is wrong?" she frowned.
"My Queen..." Robin muttered and trembled. His voice was low enough that Starfire missed it. "I need to go to her! Aelfric is driving her mad with the need to see me!"
"Go!" Starfire nodded.
"Come with me," Robin said. She blushed at this and nodded. He teleported them both to Jericho's castle, and he ran with her to the bedroom.
"Starfire?" Jericho frowned, as he saw her.
"I asked her to come here," Robin said. He thought and nodded, as he was mentally informed.
"Very well. So, she knows?" he asked.
"Yes," Robin nodded and moved to Ambrosia's side. Her pregnancy was quite apparent now, and he carefully ran a hand over her belly to soothe the growing child. "Easy there. I'm here."
Starfire watched with concern at first before remembering what he told her. Aelfric saw Robin as a father now and needed him close at times. Ambrosia was lying back with relief, and she looked over as Cyborg was let into the room.
"Yo, Robin," he said, as he moved in. "Ah, is this a bad time?"
"No. Remember how I said that Aelfric causes Ambrosia stress when I'm not around?"
"Ooh!" he blinked. "Okay. Anyways, I got some good news and some bad news."
"What's the bad news?" Robin asked first.
"We just got a report from Tamaran. Blackfire got out of prison," he growled. Starfire gasped.
"If she tries anything..." Robin snarled out, but Ambrosia stopped him.
"Robin, remember. If she was touched by the Unseelie Court, she cannot attack us if she tried. The Court will force any and all that are attached to them to bend to their will," she smiled.
"So true!" Jericho grinned.
"I should confront my sister!" Starfire glowered.
"No. Let her come to us. We must go to Stonehenge. We will not be alone," Ambrosia said gently. "Many of the old Fae blood will be there to help thwart her."
"Oh!" Starfire blinked and smiled happily. Elvey would help protect me, too.
"What was the good news?" Robin asked now.
"I got my rotating moon crystal cylinder to work! Wanna watch what it does?!" Cyborg grinned.
"Very interesting!" Jericho chuckled and now watched how large moon crystals could rotate to do various amounts of damage. "Hmm. You don't know how to use moon crystals, though. This could be very dangerous, you know."
"Seriously?" Cyborg frowned.
"Yes. If they are fully charged, and one of them cracks, you'll be in trouble," he said with a nod. "I can teach you how to use the moon crystals. But, you may need to learn the language of the Fae. I think the site has various versions of it for you to download and learn."
"I'll do that now. I got my account set up, and I'll make good use of it," Cyborg said, as he turned to leave. "Um, what do I do after I learn the language?"
"Ask Raven to give you a book on basic moon crystal usage," he said. Cyborg nodded with a wink and moved out of the room.
"My sister is free," Starfire cringed.
"You beat her up before. You can beat her up again," Robin smiled.
"But, she cannot attack us until her time is near," Ambrosia nodded. Her belly rumbled, and she winced. She was clearly famished now.
"Here, love," Jericho chuckled and fed her some honey.
"I need more," she blinked. He frowned at that, but gave her more. It still wasn't enough. She took the jar from him and started to eat at an alarming rate. She had to conjure up a spoon when her fingers weren't doing the job. Once the jar was empty, she sighed and lay back on the pillows.
"Is that the highly concentrated honey?!" Robin gaped.
"It is!" Jericho grimaced. "This must be another side effect from Aelfric. He drains her so much that she needs to eat far more than normal."
"I see," Robin nodded. "What do we do in the meantime? Considering that it's daylight here and nightfall in the city, I'm not sure what we can do for right now. Normally, we'd all be sleeping more. Our sleep schedules have really been messed up!"
"Catch up on more sleep?" Jericho chuckled. "May be the only way to fix it."
"Sleep is good," Starfire smiled.
"Then sleep it is," Robin nodded. Then he blinked at his communicator, and he answered it as a phone. "This is Robin! Oh! Um...really? You want to talk? I...okay. When? Now? Your office?! But...all right. I'll be there. Bye. Wonderful..."
"He wants to talk to you now? Well, it would be after his building hours are open," Jericho sighed at Robin's thoughts. "You know what would happen, if Ambrosia needs you."
"I know. Starfire? Um, I have a very important meeting to attend to. I can't bring you with me. I can take you back to the Tower, but I have to do this meeting alone. It's about funding for the Tower," Robin said carefully. At that, she nodded. She knew that, when it came to Earth money, he had to do things a special way and she made no complaints about it.
"Be careful, Robin," Ambrosia smiled.
"I will be. Don't worry," he chuckled. He moved to Starfire to kiss her gently and teleported with her back to the Tower. "Okay, Star. I should be back quickly. If not, I know I'll be there at the Ireland castle. Elvey will make sure of it. Don't worry about your sister. Jericho is keeping a good watch on everything and will alert me if something happens. Rest well."
"Okay, Robin," she smiled, and he hugged her tight. Right when she went into her room, Robin moved to find Cyborg talking to Raven.
"Guys, I was called in for a financial meeting. If I'm not back here soon, I'll be in Ireland," he said. That made them blink, but they nodded. Beast Boy would be informed later. With that said, Elvey made sure he had a couple small pouches of moon crystals on him. His pendant was hidden, and he detected nothing from Ambrosia. He could sense she was sleeping. Smiling softly now, he moved to the garage and hopped on his bike. Elvey was intrigued with the vehicle, and Robin mentally explained to him how it worked. As Robin drove the bike, Elvey was enjoying his crash course in human technology. His destination was Wayne Enterprises, a single massive building surrounded by small parks.
There was a special way in, and that was driving up the building. Angling the speed and precision of the bike was much easier now with his honed senses. He could have tried to teleport here, but he didn't want to give away too much about his new lifestyle. He knew his benefactor wouldn't understand. At least, right away. Elvey was anxious to meet this one, too, and could hardly contain himself with small giggles, as the bike swerved to a stop on the roof. Whistling softly to himself, he got off the bike and punched in a code in a hidden panel door. The secret elevator opened, and he stepped in. It took him to a long hallway, and that led him to an elaborate office. He stepped inside the unlocked door to nod to the tall, broad, man sitting behind the desk. The door was closed and locked shortly after.
"Robin. Good to see you," the man said with a pleasantly deep voice. His black hair was neatly swept back to expose a clean-shaven, chiseled face. His skin was pale, but his eyes were black.
"Same," Robin nodded.
"How is your funding?"
"It's fine. I still have plenty left over from what you gave me last time. Thank you."
"You're welcome. I understand you have a new Titan?"
"Yes! There is a new Titan. Her name is Ambrosia."
"I would like to meet her. I heard that she cured animals from the local zoo and even has power over plants. Is this true?"
"Yeah. It is. How did you learn about the zoo?!" Robin blinked.
"You know me. I have my connections," he chuckled.
"I understand, Mr. Wayne, but why do you want to meet Ambrosia?"
"Hmm. You normally aren't so protective over another Titan. Care to explain?"
"Well...she's pregnant."
"Is she?!"
"Yes. We don't like to cause her too much stress. She's much older than she appears, you see."
"How old are we talking about?"
"Over a thousand years old," Elvey said, as he came out. Robin's stance changed completely with his demeanor, and now a rather fatherly, protective look came from him. "Sorry to interrupt, Robin, but I must intervene when it comes to my daughter being spoken about in such a fashion. Mister Bruce Wayne, I presume? I am Elvey. I used to be King Elvey of the Southern Fae Realms before I died long ago. Yes, you heard me. I said Fae. As in Fairies and magic. If you don't believe me, I have proof. Don't worry about Robin. I am an older brother to him, and we respect each other. He is helping me gain vengeance on the one that forced me to kill myself long ago. Needless to say, it was a mistake."
"Have you possessed him?! And how do you know who I am? What's going on?!" Bruce growled. "If you have hurt him in any way..."
"I have not. I am training him on how to use the old magic before it kills him. There is a lot I need to tell you. Do you have time?" he asked. He glanced out a window to see it was still nightfall, but dawn was just around the bend.
"All night. Start talking," Bruce muttered. Robin pulled up a chair, sat down, and looked completely relaxed. As he was about to start, he gasped and doubled over.
"Not now! Anything but now!" he grimaced, as a fit started. "Don't help him! He has to fight this off or it will hurt him! Please!"
"Robin!" Jericho said, as he appeared with Ambrosia. "She started craving to see you, and...aw, hell! Fight through it!"
"Robin..." Ambrosia frowned and sighed. Bruce now stared at her. She was wearing a heavy sleeping gown of deep blue that matched her eyes with perfection. Her cheeks were lightly rosy from the sleep she woke from, and she looked absolutely charming with the concern she held on her face. I have never seen such a lovely girl in all my life! He saw the crown she wore and the crown that Jericho wore. Then he noticed her pointed ears. Robin coughed and stood up carefully after he fought through it.
"Ugh..." he muttered and found Ambrosia moving to hug him tightly. He hugged her back and sighed. "When did you wake up? I was in a meeting. Then again, he wanted to see you..."
"He did?" she blinked. "Why?"
"Ambrosia is my wife, and a Queen of the Fae. She is known as a Fae of the Moon, since most of her magic works on moonlit nights. You know me as Jericho, but, as her husband, I am now a King of the Fae with the same properties of magic as her. Our crowns are soul-mated and alive. Robin, why did Elvey talk to him? I thought you were going to keep him secret," Jericho frowned.
"He started questioning Ambrosia, brother. I refuse to idly sit and listen," Elvey growled out in Robin's lighter tone. "And he is apparently fascinated with her."
"As most humans would be," Tintagel muttered, as he came out through Jericho. "Sir, I am King Tintagel, Ambrosia's other father. Yes, she has two fathers. Her mother, Queen Esmiralda, resides in her mind, too. We were all unjustly killed in the past. We will give you all of the information you need."
"Are you for real?!" Bruce frowned, as his mind finally came back to the present.
"Very," Robin grinned with a soft chuckle. That made the man's brows rise up with alarm. He actually felt challenged with that chuckle. For the better part of two hours, Bruce was informed of what happened. Ambrosia was seated between Jericho and Robin to keep her growing baby pleased. Only after the man was fully brought up to date was he actually thoughtful.
"So, this Sinlus guy may be calling various enemies to arms?" he asked carefully.
"Yes. Eleven centuries in that box for eleven tests to be done on the Titans," Jericho nodded.
"And she was trapped in it for that long? Everyone died on what was her birthday and wedding day? That's...wow..." he frowned.
"I could show you a few visions. Things that Robin has seen and felt, if you like? It's very basic magic and won't hurt him at all. You won't be hurt by it, either. Want to try it and see for yourself?" Elvey asked. Bruce seemed to hesitate, but he nodded. Robin pulled out a small, light blue moon crystal and focused on it before tossing it to him. The moment it was caught, the man gasped with wide eyes. Now everything Robin had experienced, he experienced. The first sight of Ambrosia. The sight of her home. The rebuilding that was done. The meeting with other Fae. The discovery of the old hill. All of it was now given to him in short bursts, and Robin nodded. When it was done, the moon crystal shattered harmlessly in his hand, and he was trembling while his mind started to sort over what he saw.
"Incredible..." Bruce winced when it was over. "Give me a moment..."
"Take all the time you need," Robin nodded. "No rush."
"Robin?" Ambrosia frowned.
:My Queen? What is wrong?: he asked and glanced at her.
:Why did he want to meet me? That makes no sense!:
:You're right. We'll find out in a moment, my Queen.:
:I love you, Robin.:
:I love you, too, my Queen.: he smiled, and they shared a mental kiss. He ran a hand over her belly slowly, and she sighed as she leaned into Jericho's supporting embrace. Now Bruce began to wonder why his protégé was so protective over her, and he had an idea.
"Robin," Bruce said slowly, as he watched him. "is that kid yours?"
"Partially," he nodded. "Jericho?"
"Right. I'll tell him," Jericho sighed. He told him of the ancient Fae legend. Bruce was floored.
"As Ambrosia is life, her child will be death," Elvey said softly. "Robin gave himself fully to Ambrosia. He is 'her human', in a way. It's what he wanted to do. We gave him warnings, but he felt it was needed to get stronger. To become a better leader. Yes, it gave him some handicaps, but what doesn't? Anyways, Robin is human, but not human now."
"Is it really what you wanted, Robin?" Bruce asked.
"It is. I have no regrets," Robin smiled and shrugged. "I still lead the Titans. They all respect me, and I have been assisting in making them stronger and becoming better defenders for the human race as a whole. But, there's something that has been bothering me now."
"What's that?" he asked.
"Why are you interested in Ambrosia? You were never interested in the other Titans before," Robin asked. "That makes no sense to me."
"Well..." he seemed to shrug.
"Tell me before you piss me off," Elvey said softly.
"Brother, stop it. But, you did bring up a valid point," Jericho sighed, as Tintagel mused. "What do you find fascinating about my wife?"
"If you must know," Bruce said, as he stood up to look out the window over the small city. "it's her beauty. More than that...her as a whole. You gave me the whole story, but I feel there's more."
"There is always more," Ambrosia sighed in her tinkling voice, and now he turned to face her. "Tonight, where my castle in Ireland is, I plan to go to Stonehenge. It may not be in Ireland, but it is in the same part of the world, in a sense. The moon will be at its full peak there. Powerful ley lines will give me intense Fae energy focus. I plan to have both of my Fathers and my Mother to appear in spirit form within the circle of stones. I also know that we may be confronted. If you would like to meet them outside of our physical bodies, then that would be one of the few times to do so. I will be weak and could use all of the protection I could get."
"Ambrosia, are you sure you would want him to be there?" Robin asked.
"We can bring him to our home and have him sign the treaty to form an alliance with us," she smiled. "This way he will be able to study on our knowledge, and we can assist him when he needs it."
"That would be the only way," Jericho nodded. "What do you think?"
"An alliance? With fairy creatures? Um...well, I've signed contracts with stranger people, I guess," Bruce chuckled. "All right. I'm game."
"Let me leave a couple moon crystals here. Jericho can see through them. So, if you need help with something, he has over a thousand years of advice to give," Robin smirked. "No one will see them. If you need us more directly, you can talk into it, and he'll hear you, too."
"Really?!" Bruce blinked. "Hmm. If that's the case, I know of a few places I could put those. If anything odd is heard, you'd inform me?"
"Definitely. Sign our treaty first, though," Jericho nodded. Robin handed over a small pouch of tiny moon crystals that were lightly charged. Ambrosia was helped to stand next, and she looked over at Bruce with a soft smile of appreciation.
"Is something wrong?" Bruce asked, as he pocketed the moon crystals.
"Quite the opposite. I just...wanted to thank you. For caring for Robin when he needed it. He really looks up to you and respects you to no end. Thank you for being there for him when he needed you most. He is a remarkable human being," she smiled.
"In truth, it was my fault he ended up that way. Considering that his family was the victim of one of my villains. But...you're welcome. For what it's worth," Bruce nodded with his own smile. "Do you know if you're having a boy or a girl?"
"It's a boy. Aelfric. Remember?" Jericho chuckled.
"That's right," Bruce nodded.
"I need to take the bike back to the Tower. It's almost daybreak. I'll meet up with you at the castle. Oh, we gained a grove and named it Titan's Grove. There's a castle under the hill there. I'll show it to you sometime," Robin chuckled. "It's not impressive, but it's nice."
"Show it to me after Stonehenge," Bruce said. "But, I am curious of something."
"What's that?" he asked.
"How did you become her human?" Bruce asked with a light smile.
"I gave her my blood, and she gave me hers in turn. No. Don't think about it. It's like drinking acid, and I barely survived it," Robin warned before the older man got any thoughts. "Yes, my senses are honed to an inhuman level. I can hear the wireless transmissions from your phone up-linking to the satellite in space. It's crazy. I can also hear your computer getting ready to shut down."
"What?!" Bruce gaped, as his computer shut down into a sleep mode. "How?"
"Her blood," Robin said with a soft smile. "Needless to say, I am exceptionally deadly now."
"Robin, don't gloat," Ambrosia said with a soft frown. "You are not yourself when you gloat."
"I wasn't gloating!" Robin said with a humoring gleam in his eye. She gave him a look that made him start laughing. Then he started coughing, and Jericho scowled at him.
"When's the last time you got your fix?" he asked.
"It was before I came here! Wasn't it?" Robin frowned before shaking his head from the need for Ambrosia's nectar. "Wait. I had the fit. So..."
"Come here," Ambrosia smiled. Robin sighed and moved to kiss her deeply and swallow down the nectar his body needed. Bruce saw this with a bit of shock.
"Like her name says, she has the ability to produce life healing nectar. The only way to get it is by kissing her. Robin is addicted to it, because his body is trying to create a well of magic within him. It's there, but a slow trickle right now. If Elvey wasn't able to help him, it could have killed him. Robin isn't supposed to even have magic, but he does. Ambrosia's nectar did it," Jericho said.
"He's addicted to her?" Bruce frowned.
"Yes. She tried to leave his life at one point. He couldn't let her. He still loves Starfire, and she loves him, too. They do still plan to get married. Starfire just recently learned quite a bit about this. We're still very careful with her. If Robin didn't become Ambrosia's human, Aelfric would simply have been reborn. Maybe it was best this way. My son will know what he needs to do and will know to use his powers for justice instead of folly. It actually seems to be better than I could have hoped," he smiled.
"Better?" Ambrosia smiled.
"Yeah. I'll need to refill my vials again, but I'm good," Robin smiled.
"Vials?" Bruce asked. In response, Robin took out a vial of glowing, golden liquid to show him.
"This is the nectar she creates. I can kiss her and spit out what she gives me to put in the vials. Two of them satisfy my craving to an extent. Four keeps me going even longer. It drains her to harvest the nectar. She can do healing, though. Normal healing. So, if you have any old aches and pains, let her know. She'll help you get rid of them," Robin chuckled.
"Well, I did have a back issue earlier in the week. My masseuse worked out most of it, but it's still there," Bruce said with a shrug. Ambrosia moved to examine the older man's back and placed her hands on his spine as though to search for the pain. Her crown flared out blue to show healing was taking place, and he gaped with shock at the sudden flood of warmth that seemed to push through him to his core. When the warmth dissipated, most of the pains were taken with it.
"You had quite a few problems. They should be gone now!" she beamed.
"I haven't felt this good in years!" he admitted, as he tested his limbs. "Amazing!"
"Keep it a secret, please," Jericho warned. "We need you to sign our treaty."
"What's that sound?" she whispered and turned her head to the door. Someone was approaching.
"What sound?" Bruce frowned. The other three could hear the intruder easily.
"Were you expecting anyone?" Robin asked, as Elvey came out. "If not, you'd better hide. Tintagel, turn off the lights? Let's make a welcoming party!"
"Bruce, be so kind as to hold Queen Ambrosia and keep her safe. Just make sure she can see us, or you'll be in danger of her," Jericho warned. "Just stay in that back corner and out of sight."
"In danger of her?" Bruce frowned.
"Trust me," Jericho said. That made the man nod. Too much happened so far for him to not trust Jericho. Robin now watched his brother dim the lights to practically nothing. Bruce kept Ambrosia at his side and seemed to blink at how she leaned into him now. She was exhausted. He felt the small kicks being done against his hip from the growing baby, and he actually felt a bit of a grandfatherly feel towards her now. He put a rather protective arm around her and pulled out a set of glasses that were enhanced with night vision. Robin gave a small nod to him and returned his attention to the door.
"This has to be his office! Lights are out and no one's home!" a hissing voice seemed to snicker out from behind the door. The lock seemed to start jiggling with lock picks, and the door soon opened. Bruce never bothered to upgrade to electronic locks. He tended to lock himself out of his office on more than one occasion. The man who walked in looked like someone dressed up to be a janitor. Robin now cracked a grin and pushed out his pole to trip the man to the ground. At his outraged shout, Jericho turned on the lights, and now the man was staring at Robin's diabolical grin.
"You're a Fae. Interesting," Robin mused.
"What?" Bruce frowned.
"That's right. You can't tell the difference. Run your hands through Ambrosia's hair carefully. See if a strand will come out. Don't force it or you'll hurt her! Just work your hands through her hair carefully, all right?" Jericho sighed. "You really need to sign that treaty..."
"And I will," Bruce nodded and ran a finger through one of Ambrosia's silver-tinted golden locks that framed her face. Robin watched Jericho move over to her to go for one of the longer locks of hair.
"There we are," Jericho smiled at a six foot strand that clung to him. He bundled it among itself carefully. "Put this in your pocket. Keep it on you at all times! You don't have to wear it. Just keep it on your person. Good. Now look at the man."
"Okay. His ears are longer," Bruce frowned, as he saw the difference now. "And that hair smells like honey! Am I going crazy?"
"Nope! That's normal!" Robin seemed to giggle, as Elvey came out. "Well, well, weak little Fae! What brings you to this man's office, hmm? Obviously not here for an appointment!"
"Elvey, he stinks of Unseelie!" Jericho hissed. "You are tied with Sinlus!"
"What of it?! I was told to get that human against you!" the Fae man snarled.
"In exchange for your soul? Idiot," Elvey frowned. "Are you sure it was this man?"
"Aye! I was told to find the powerful man, Slade!" the Fae man growled.
"Wrong man. Idiot," Elvey grinned wickedly. "This is Wayne Enterprises! This is the CEO of this building! What makes you think he was Slade?!"
"Well...that man always went after buildings like this..." the Fae man cringed now.
"Do you want to take him over to learn more?" he asked Jericho.
"I should, but I won't. Just kill him," Tintagel growled.
"Why?" Ambrosia frowned.
"Ah. That's right. Ambrosia, love, come to me," Jericho smiled, as Tintagel stepped down. She moved from Bruce's side to her husband and he hugged her tight. "He's from the Unseelie. He'll spy on us. We can't let them know that they lost just yet."
"They already know, love. The moment you pinned him down, they knew. What would be the difference if he lives or dies?" she frowned. That made Jericho wince, and Robin grimaced. Then she thought, and she stood away from him for her armor to cover her. Then she glared down at the Fae man with disgust, as she took her sword off her back. Bruce was staring with shock all over again.
"Ambrosia?" Robin asked with a small grin.
"Deliver a message for me!" Ambrosia snapped at the man.
"Yes, Your Majesty!" he cringed, as her crown sparked blue with anger.
"Tell the Unseelie Court that, if I am harmed under any circumstance, my husband's soul-mated crown will hunt them down without mercy!" she hissed. His eyes went bleak, as the message was sent.
"A soul-mated crown..." the Fae man gasped. Then he screamed, as his body contorted in pain when the Unseelie Court peered through his eyes to speak through him. The multiple voices came out softly, and Bruce was horrified at the sheer amount of evil that leaked from the man now.
"Your warning is grave!"
"We hear you! So brave!"
"The innocent Queen!"
"Now she is so mean!"
"So deadly and angered!"
"We feel so endangered!"
"Your body untouched..."
"The babe is safe, much!"
"Oh, we fear the crowns!"
"Don't look at our frowns!"
"Her warning is to be a permanent reminder," Jericho growled out. "If anything happens to her or my son during these tests or outside of them, I will slaughter all of you!"
As though to strengthen the warning, both crowns shimmered blue to enhance their joined anger. The man seemed to twitch with knowing fear. The Unseelie Court was there to witness the wrath of a soul-mated crown. The warning would be heeded in full.
"And, if you dare to separate either myself, King Jericho, or Queen Ambrosia from each other, I will take up their vengeance!" Robin hissed. That made the man pause as the Court seemed confused. "I can tell you a secret, but Sinlus must never know. Think of it as a test for him?"
"A test for the tester?!"
"You wonderful jester!"
"For this secret we tow..."
"We won't let Sinlus know!"
At this, Robin took out Elvey's pendant, and it winked out with a form of haughty laughter. Now the Court within the Fae man went speechless. Absolutely speechless. Elvey lived again. The Court would have to keep the promise of keeping the knowledge from Sinlus, and it was going to be enjoyable to the Court. Then Jericho made a noise that Tintagel normally made. Ambrosia made a light giggling chuckle. Now the Unseelie Court knew the three they feared most had come back, and the one they used as a trump card could not be used until the time was right.
"Don't piss us off. Heed our warning. If you go against your vow, I will call Judgment on the lot of you!" Jericho growled. "Now get your slave out of this building and out of my sight!"
"We will honor our treaty."
"The servant is weakly."
"Now he will be gone!"
"But for how long?"
"For as long as needed. Which means until the tests are to start," Ambrosia said grimly. The Fae man seemed to shout as the Court left his mind, and he got up to run out of the room.
"Explain?!" Bruce demanded, as the evil presence left.
"What you felt was the Unseelie Court. An evil that has been here...probably since the dawn of time," Elvey sighed. "We know how to block them, but only for so long. We'll explain more later."
"We'll need moon crystals on this building somewhere," Jericho muttered.
"At least in the office," Robin agreed. Ambrosia changed back into her nightgown of deep blue, and Jericho hugged her to him again. He kissed her fiercely and sighed that she was all right.
"Let's take him to the treaty," Jericho smiled.
"Let Robin do that," she murmured, and he gave a bit of a wicked smile at her.
"Yeah. You take her to bed. I'll take him to the treaty," Robin agreed. Bruce found himself blushing a bit. "Oh. I need to get my bike back to the Tower."
"Fine. I'll take him to the treaty. You'd better hurry up!" Jericho scowled. Ambrosia giggled softly and let Robin hug her tight.
"Don't make me wait for you," she whispered softly.
"Of course not, my Queen," Robin said with a soft sigh.
"You called her..." Bruce started.
"I'm her human. It's natural for me to say it," Robin explained. He kissed her softly and forced himself away from her. He needed more than just her nectar, and she could only smile knowingly.
"We'll see you to your bike," Jericho smiled, as he took her back into his arms.
"So, how are we going to get to Ireland without transportation?" Bruce asked.
"I can teleport us," Jericho chuckled. "It's how I got here, after all."
"Right," he said with a small sigh. They all moved into the elevator, and Ambrosia gave out a startled squeak when it moved. She had never been in an elevator before, and Jericho comforted her gently. Robin found himself laughing softly at it. When they got up to the roof, dawn was starting to appear. She gave a light sigh, but Jericho hugged her. She blushed softly and knew she was safe. Robin moved to get on the bike, and now Ambrosia looked at him curiously.
"Um, I don't know if you should ride with me," Robin chuckled.
"Jericho, dear, I want to ride with Robin," she said with a small pout.
"Love, we need to get back home," Jericho said gently.
"I have never ridden with Robin before!" she said.
"My Queen, you aren't in an outfit suitable for riding," Robin chuckled. Then he gaped, as her outfit became the two-piece red dress that she wore to the night club.
"How about now?" she smirked. Bruce was staring at her with disbelief. Her figure was perfection. Jericho cleared his throat to snap him back into focus.
"My wife!" Jericho growled. "Robin, bring her back the moment you park the bike in the garage! No pausing to chat with the others!"
"Get behind me, and hold on tight!" Robin said sternly. She nodded, wrapped her legs around the back of his waist, and her arms wrapped around his chest. He had to focus on the bike now, and even that was proving difficult. He could sense her excitement in everything. He revved the bike engine to warm it up and peeled off the roof expertly. Jericho nudged Bruce and grabbed his wrist to teleport with him to Titan's Grove. From there they went to the castle in Ireland.
On the bike, Robin was speeding back to the Tower with Ambrosia clinging to him. He could feel her hot breath on his neck, and, when the enticing nibble to his ear was given, he almost lost control of the bike. He drove it off the main road and into the woods. He used his senses to guide him to a safe spot where no one would find them.
"Robin?" Ambrosia asked with a soft smile. He parked the bike between several trees to give them some cover, and she pulled her limbs away from him. Now he turned quickly to grab her and pull her against him to kiss in a needy way. He gave out a sharp groan, and she was no better, since she needed him for comfort. The next few minutes would be filled with their sharp cries and panting gasps for air. She seemed to give out a giggle, as he was stretched out on his bike with her in his embrace when they were sated of each other for the moment. Then she snuggled into him with a worried thought.
"What?" he smiled softly.
"Jericho is going to be quite upset," she sighed.
"No, he won't be mad. He said to bring you back after the bike was parked in the garage. He said nothing about bringing you back before then," he grinned and kissed her passionately, as he sat up with her. He ran his mouth over her neck and helped fix her clothing back on. Then they both turned as one at the sound of footsteps.
"Humans," she muttered with irritation.
"What do we do, my Queen?" he growled and moved to nip her ear to make her shiver. He still wanted her, and she was starting to want him again.
"Let's have some fun with them," she grinned.
"What do you have in mind?" he smirked. She whispered in his ear, and he had to keep himself from laughing. Asking Elvey for assistance, a mild illusion was placed over them and the sleek bike to look like two hardened biker teens on a rough-looking motorcycle. They began to make out again and were a bit more noisy about it with small giggles and panting groans. At the sharp sound of a gasp and small coughs, they both turned to look at the hiking couple.
"Looks like we're caught," Ambrosia grounded out roughly.
"Like hell we are!" Robin scowled and revved the bike to take off. They were both laughing and sniggering all the way back to the Tower, as the illusions wore off on the road. Just as they reached the Tower, Robin thought and swerved the bike away from it.
"Robin?!" she giggled.
"I still want time alone with you," he grinned.
"Dear, you know that I will need rest soon. With what is going to happen later tonight..."
"I know, my Queen. I just feel that I'm still missing something from you!"
"Really? Hmm. Oh! I did see my Mother do something with King Elvey long ago. When I saw them together. We can try it," she said thoughtfully. He looked at her questionably and veered back to the Tower. He parked the bike in the garage and looked at her. She gestured for his pendant, and he brought it out. She studied it softly and pressed a kiss to it before lowering her head to let her crown touch it. The crown seemed to shimmer with a form of joy, and his pendant was glowing with a form of relief at being recognized at long last. Robin felt himself gasp and shiver with a form of complete and solid contentment. His pendant missed her crown, and it was the same with her crown to his pendant.
"That's right..." Elvey whispered as he came out. "My pendant is like a crown. Essi saw me as another life mate. In a sense, Robin is doing the same to you, Ambrosia. Starfire...he loves her. He will marry her, but you are his life mate now."
"But..." Ambrosia frowned, as Robin took over and kissed her hard. He didn't want her to argue about this. I am her human. Her son was a part of me. They were still sitting on the bike, and he was turned to face her in the seat. At the sound of someone approaching, he broke the kiss and looked over with alarm at who it was.
"Starfire..." he grimaced and recognized her footsteps. Ambrosia was in a very compromising situation with him. Yet, Elvey came out and muttered, "Essi, help me this once?"
"Very well, Elvey, dear," Esmiralda tinkled, as she came forth from Ambrosia.
"It has been a long time since my pendant was with your crown," he smiled and kissed her fiercely. At the sudden stop of footsteps and the small, angry gasp of shock, he looked over and sighed.
"Elvey, dear, I warned you something like this would happen!" Esmiralda scolded him.
"But, Essi..." Robin seemed to wince.
"No! You are still in young Robin's body, and you didn't see reason!" she scolded again.
"Oh! You are Elvey and Esmiralda?" Starfire blinked and walked over.
"Yes," Elvey sighed.
"He just had to kiss me despite the warnings. I am sorry you saw that," Esmiralda sighed.
"No! It is okay! As long as it is not Robin and friend Ambrosia. Even though, I know that he is her human...and..." she frowned. "well..."
"It is still hard on you," Esmiralda nodded with understanding and gently pushed Elvey back. "Let me sit and talk to you. Elvey, let King Jericho and my husband know that I am speaking with Starfire. I do not want them to worry."
"Of course, Essi," Elvey nodded and pulled out a moon crystal to whisper to it.
"Starfire, come and speak with me," Esmiralda said and moved her daughter's body off the bike. Her two-piece dress became a regal, flowing gown of deep green as she moved.
"Yes?" Starfire smiled.
"Tonight, when Elvey comes out of Robin, he will keep his promise to kiss you. However, it will become dangerous, if you aren't careful," she warned.
"Dangerous?"
"Yes. You remember how he treated you at the gala, right?"
"I do."
"Elvey does desire you. He finds you intriguing and wants to see how much more he can do. However, you must remember. You are a princess! Do you know how babies are created?"
"Yes, I do!" Starfire flustered.
"That is what he will attempt to do with you. Not later on, though. But, he will, eventually. However, that's only if you let him. Yes, he will be within young Robin at the time, but you should marry him first before Elvey does anything else. Do you understand?"
"I feel that Robin is lost to me," Starfire frowned.
"He is not lost, dear Starfire. He knows the path he travels to your heart. He simply has a few new twists and turns. The path to you is still clear. But, now I have a question for you."
"I am listening."
"Do you still love young Robin?"
"I do! I just..."
"Talk to me, dear," Esmiralda smiled warmly. "I was a mother long ago. In a way, I still am one. Tell me what plagues your mind."
"I do love Robin, Esmiralda. I just...I feel that I am becoming attracted to Elvey more," she admitted. "I was warned of the risks. To help me understand what I did not. And, with him being in Robin, I know it may not be so bad."
"That is true, but you must remember. Every time Elvey kisses a girl, she becomes further and further ensnared in his entrapment. I'll let you in on a little secret!" she giggled.
"Essi, don't you dare!" Elvey scowled.
"Oh, hush up, you old rogue! She deserves to know!" Esmiralda scoffed, and Starfire found herself giggling hard. Elvey muttered, but Robin was siding with Esmiralda on this one.
"Fine. Tell her. No other," Elvey sighed.
"Good. Starfire, I was actually Elvey's first girl. He had been with no other, but Aethelwyne was the only other exception. Elvey's enthrallment was so intense that he just needed to kiss one girl before they tried to get attached and clingy. He couldn't stand that! He would finally simply disappear from their lives, and they eventually forgot about them. But, if he ever came back to them, they would want him all over again, and it upset him greatly," Esmiralda smiled.
"But, you were strong against him?" Starfire asked.
"Yes. I was immune to his charms. I think it was from my crown. It 'knew' that Elvey was the one. I think. I'm still unsure. But, normally, Elvey would test a girl by simply doing what he did to you. Run his hand across her cheek to see her reaction. He did that innocently to me, and all I did was thank him for fixing my hair. It shocked him. No other girl in existence was able to be herself around him. Did he fall in love with me? Instantly. It happened within that single moment," she said, as she sighed with the memory. "He tried to be with me every chance he could get."
"But, when Tintagel found out?" Starfire frowned.
"Is this necessary?" Elvey groaned.
"It is! So, you can shut it!" Esmiralda snapped. "You brought me into this mess, and I'll fix it the way I must! Anyways, young Starfire, it was Tintagel that introduced us at the wedding. He didn't want Elvey to meet me for the fear of me falling for him. My husband wanted me to be safely married to him before any introductions were done. Then you saw the memory that happened at the gala of the Titans. It occurred two months after the wedding happened. That was the first kiss that we shared."
"I see," Starfire nodded. "I do remember that."
"Of course, you do," she chuckled. "Now, tonight, when we all appear within the stones that make up Stonehenge, remember what I told you. Elvey will kiss you. He may make you feel more enthralled with him than ever before. Just remember that he will not touch you in any other way until you marry young Robin. That will be the only way that everything will be safe."
"Um, what of my sister? Of Blackfire?" Starfire frowned.
"You have my word that I will protect you," Elvey promised. That made her blush, and she nodded happily. "I need to get to the castle. I'll see you later tonight."
"Okay!" she giggled. When she left, he grimaced, and Ambrosia hugged him tight.
"Let's check on the treaty," Ambrosia smiled.
"Yeah," Robin nodded. They kissed passionately, and he let Elvey teleport them to the Ireland castle. Once there, Jericho was waiting for them, and he hugged her tight.
"Are you sure you want to kiss Starfire?" he asked Robin.
"I vowed," Robin sighed, as Elvey came out.
"And it does make sense why only Mother could touch King Elvey's pendant," she said with a soft frown. "He was also her life mate. It trusted only her."
"Yes," Elvey said gently. "And, with Robin gaining it now, it knows that he is your life mate, too. It could only have happened after he became your human. Right after it was done, Robin felt an urge to find it. A need to have it around his neck. That was the pendant reaching out for him. To show that it was ready for him to claim it back."
"Three life mates," Jericho sighed and hugged Ambrosia close. "Unheard of. But, that's how it is with us. Darling? What's on your mind?"
"I wish to go into the bedroom with you both. I would like to try something," she said thoughtfully. Robin seemed to gape at what she wanted to try, and Jericho was quick to move her there. Once in the safe confines of the bedroom, Ambrosia looked at them both lovingly.
"We don't know what will happen," Jericho shivered.
"I know," she nodded. He moved to press his crown to hers first. At their happy shimmering, Robin swallowed and took his pendant to add to their crowns. The shimmering got far more intense now. The crowns and the pendant were overjoyed. The three were truly united at last.
"Incredible!" Jericho breathed. "How could we have forgotten this?!"
"So much was going on. We let this pass us by," Ambrosia sighed with a form of relief.
"This is how we will call forth Elvey, Tintagel, and Esmiralda. Isn't it?" Robin asked.
"Yes," she smiled. "Robin, I do believe that the pendant does hold King Elvey's soul."
"Elvey suspected it, too," he nodded. "He told me that it was possible. When I gained his memories, it was enough for him to come through me. To show that he was alive. But, it was his pendant that absorbed what was left of his energy. Much like the crowns when they got torn away or forced to see their owners die. Now the three of us are truly soul-mated together. Not just through our crowns and my pendant. Not only through our son. But fully. As of right now. Or am I wrong?"
"You're right," she smiled.
"That you are," Jericho chuckled. They pulled away from each other, and she kissed each of them in turn. She truly did love them both equally. They are my life mates.
"What's been going on with Mr. Wayne?" Robin asked, as he hugged her.
"He signed the treaty. Apparently, Warren and Ealdun are clients of his. He's surprised," Jericho grinned merrily. "They're discussing business in a secured room."
"Shall we see them?" Robin asked. Ambrosia giggled, and they led her out of the room. Jericho led them down a hall and knocked on the door to show they were walking in.
"King Jericho!" Ealdun chuckled and moved to shake his hand warmly.
"King Ealdun. King Warren," Jericho nodded to them both. "How goes it?"
"Not bad. Just seeing what we can do to aid a bit of expansion to various buildings," Warren chuckled. "How is everything? The three of you look a bit better."
"Was there anything said of three life mates?" Robin asked slowly.
"Three?!" Ealdun blinked. "No. Only two. Why?"
"Apparently, Jericho and I are life mates to Ambrosia. The same was done with Elvey and Tintagel to Esmiralda. It's how it was possible to create Ambrosia, you see?" Robin said.
"All of this is going way over my head!" Bruce sighed.
"And it would explain Aelfric's rebirth, too!" Warren though aloud.
"Speaking of which," Jericho sighed and told them the latest news about what his son was to be. This floored the older Fae. When it was explained as to how Aelfric would already know to be just and good, it relieved the older Fae immensely.
"Regardless, he will be protected," Ealdun nodded.
"After tonight, I'll have to jump on a plane back to Gotham. I was only out here to survey some current work. I think I'll keep what I see tonight to myself," Bruce smiled.
"That would be best," Ambrosia nodded. "Not many would understand."
"You should stop by my home some time. I'll let you know when I have some free time," he said. "Rare as it is, but it would be nice."
"We can arrange that. Teleportation can be done easily. Leave a moon crystal by your front door. We can find your house with that," Jericho nodded. Ambrosia smiled, and then she blushed at the kicking she got. Robin and Jericho both put their hands on her belly to give fatherly smiles. Bruce was allowed to feel the happy kicks next.
"I should post some sentries to protect my grandson. Since that is what he is to me," Bruce muttered. "I won't breathe a word of his existence."
"Wise words," Jericho agreed. "Anyways, we have some time to kill before the moon rises. Feel free to explore the grounds. If you want extra moon crystals, or jewelry, talk to Cyborg and Herald."
"I'll do that," Bruce nodded. "You know, it would be a profitable market for them. They can be known as a form of rare crystals and be easily dispersed among the populace."
"Hmm," Jericho thought, as Tintagel emerged. "I think you're onto something! Easier for me to see what goes on in the world of humans, as well as the Fae. If something is happening that we don't approve of, we will know firsthand, and I can inform those that need to know."
"Our own little security system," Bruce grinned.
"Won't it tax you?" Ealdun frowned.
"My friend, remember. Back in the day, hundreds of thousands of crystals were made. I had no issues then. I doubt I'll have issues now," he smirked. That had Ealdun grinning.
"Oh, there is something that concerns me," Warren said. "Do you have true followers? Other than the Titans here? Any people?"
"No," Ambrosia said with a small frown. "Sinlus killed them all."
"I'll spread word to those that wish to become your people. To live here and at Elvey's restored home to help safeguard it," Warren nodded. "How can one be a royal couple without people to lead?"
"It's true," Jericho nodded. "We have titles. That's it."
"We know you both are trustworthy. A hill was restored. A way to finally get the Unseelie Court off our backs is underway. We are allied. We will help each other," Ealdun smiled.
"And to have a group like the Titans to assist us? We would be fools not to try anything!" Warren grinned. Robin chuckled and gave his own nod.
"As it is, if you know any that wish to become a Titan, a protector for all, I would not mind speaking with anyone. We are always looking for new recruits," Robin said.
"I may know of a few," Ealdun nodded.
"As do I!" Warren blinked. "We'll bring them to Stonehenge tonight."
"Excellent!" Robin grinned.
"We have another two hours before the moon shows itself. Then we will all start to gather. Darling? Was there anything you wanted to wear?" Jericho asked.
"I think our wedding clothes will be needed," Ambrosia smiled. He nodded and Warren thought.
"Do you have a steed? Other than Beast Boy?" the old King asked.
"We have a zebra filly, but she is too young," Robin said. "She has yet to be broken to riding."
"There are still Elven horses being bred, you know," Ealdun chuckled. Now Ambrosia gasped with delight, and Jericho made plans to have Beast Boy encounter one of them. They could even see about have a few of them brought to Stonehenge. The time was drawing close to get there.
"We need to get there now. We have some preparations that we need to do," she said.
"I'll contact Herald. I'm sure he's aware of what needs to be done," Jericho nodded.
"No need. Beast Boy is helping us," Ambrosia giggled. Robin smiled and sighed at the caress to his cheek. He felt deliriously happy now. It was something he never thought he'd ever feel.
"Thanks," Robin muttered to the mental pat on the back that Elvey did. He looked up to see his benefactor walking over to them with his arms crossed over his chest.
"Okay, so what's going to happen at Stonehenge?" the man asked.
"My three parents will be summoned to meet everyone in spiritual form. However, they will be confined within the circle of stones. Also, Starfire may be confronted by her sister, Blackfire. We are not to do a thing. I am sure that the Unseelie Court has her bound. I don't believe she knows it yet," Ambrosia said with a light shrug. "Keep my hair on you at all times. It will protect you."
"I'll do that," he promised. "I have a watch that has a secret compartment. Can I put it in there?"
"Yeah. Do that," Robin nodded. "Just remember to wear the watch."
"I always do," he grinned and revealed the watch he was wearing. The top of it flicked open, and the hair was transferred from his pocket to the watch. When it was secured, he nodded. He always wore the watch. Now it would become a permanent part of his wardrobe.
"Ambrosia and I need to change clothes. Robin, gather the others to meet at Stonehenge. We'll teleport to you," Jericho nodded. They clasped hands, and Ambrosia was escorted away.
"Can't she change into different clothing? Like her armor?" Bruce asked.
"Her wedding dress is different. It's all moon crystals, and it's an heirloom from her mother," Robin said, as they walked into the main meeting room of the castle. "She prefers to wear the original piece. It's one thing to see it in memories. It's another to see it in reality."
"I'll remember that," he smiled. "So...you're happy with everything?"
"Like I told you before," Robin sighed with a soft smile. "I have no regrets on anything."
"Good. Because, if you did, I'd backhand you for being an idiot," he muttered. Robin started laughing, as Elvey could only agree in full with him.
"I already had that talk with him," Elvey murmured softly. "I punish him enough with his training. You can believe that."
"How do you train him? Huh? Where did you go?!" Bruce blinked. Then he paused in shock at how Robin simply reappeared on the other side of him. He made no sound or odd movements.
"The body movements of the Fae are legendary. You would never know if one is walking around you. That's why the hair will protect you," Elvey chuckled. "I'm sure you've heard of Slade?"
"Who hasn't?" he growled. He was clearly unnerved now.
"If he has to be fought, he will lose," Elvey grinned with Robin's chuckle.
"I can see that happening. But, I am very curious of something," Bruce admitted.
"Of what?"
"How much pain did you go through in becoming Ambrosia's human?"
"That pain..." he trembled visibly. "I was being broiled from the inside out. My heart almost failed. I couldn't breathe. It was the most...excruciating pain I ever felt. Worse than a limb being pulled from the socket. It's probably ten times worse than anything you've ever felt. Three swallows of Fae blood. The rewards are immense...but you swallow acid. It feels just like that."
"Is that so?" Bruce frowned. "Hmm..."
"Don't even think about it!" Elvey hissed out, as Robin's pole suddenly snapped out in front of him. "You will regret the decision! I know this! My daughter can only have one human! If she consumes anymore human blood, it will harm her!"
"I wasn't planning on it!" Bruce argued.
"But, you were going to ask her. I know this!" he countered. "You gave the same look that other humans have done. The curiosity factor is there. The want to know is strong. If you want to feel the pain, then I can show you what it's like in one simple step. But...not now. We have to get to Stonehenge. It's important that we get there with the others."
"Do you really think you can duplicate the pain?"
"I don't think. I know I can. We'll see if you can take just a fraction of it. Robin had to ride it out for three hours. I doubt you could last five seconds," Elvey said with a heavy frown.
"Humans are more resistant to pain than you know."
"That may be true. But, not a pain that can affect your very core," he growled. That had Bruce blink with surprise. He wanted to ask more questions, but Robin rose up his hand to show that now was not the time. For the first time in a long time, Bruce felt outclassed. Robin was possessed by someone that had centuries of leadership and battle training. He knew that this was the main reason why Robin didn't regret the path he walked on. He was being taught just by being possessed.
"Robin! Oh. Hello, Sir," Cyborg nodded.
"Hi," Bruce nodded back.
"Is everyone ready for Stonehenge? We need to go now," Robin said.
"Ready and waiting!" Cyborg said and walked with them. "Um...what happened?"
"A mild berating," Elvey muttered with a touch of Robin's irritation.
"Ooh. No comment," Cyborg said wisely. That got a small chuckle from Robin, as they walked along. Bruce was just amazed at the attitude that Robin had, but he knew that it wasn't really Robin in control. The change of tone and stance proved it. "Oh, do we need any moon crystals?"
"No. My pendant will be enough. As long as we remain in the circle of stones, everything will be fine. Anyone can leave, but my daughter and King Jericho need to stay in it with Robin. My spirit with Essi and Tintagel must remain within them, too. We could become lost, if we leave. It's a risk we can't take. I almost think that, if it happened, we would just be absorbed back into our perspective vessels. The pendant that Robin wears is mine. Then there are the crowns," he said.
"Okay," Cyborg thought. "So...the pendant is different?"
"My pendant is like another soul-mated crown, you see. It's just as intelligent. I...had forgotten, to tell the truth. You will see when we get to Stonehenge," he said. Bruce was just in awe of what he was hearing. He saw the pendant before, but he never realized how vital it was.
"Can I get a closer look at that necklace?" Bruce asked.
"My pendant can't be removed. I can show it to you, but I can't ever take it off. It bonded to me. Just like how Ambrosia and Jericho can't remove their crowns, this pendant is mine. Permanently," Robin smiled and showed him the moon crystal. Now Bruce saw how short the chain was. It was just long enough to move around, but just a touch shorter than what was needed for Robin to remove it. The pendant seemed to twinkle with a form of amusement. It was as though Elvey's soul was laughing at him. Bruce made a face at it for a rewarding twinkle to be given back.
Robin walked along with the others now, but he paused to take out a vial of nectar to drink down. He sighed. I need more nectar. He had one vial left, so he knew he had to save it.
"How many vials do you have?" Cyborg asked.
"Six," he frowned.
"We'll double it after tonight," his friend nodded.
"Thanks," Robin sighed. "I know I'm going to need more, too."
"I thought Ambrosia's blood would have taken the slack?" Bruce asked.
"No. It just...bonded me to her. It doesn't really give me magic. She could, but it could drain her. And with her being pregnant with Aelfric...I won't chance it. Cyborg, she was so hungry, that she ate a full jar of concentrated Fae honey!" Robin sighed with a wince.
"Are you for real?!" Cyborg gaped. "That stuff is strong!"
"I know it! As it is, Aelfric could drain her if she's left alone in her third month. I don't know how she would be without me. Because, if I have to fight Slade, and if she needs me..." he growled. Then he blinked at a thought. "Maybe...I'll look for him as we travel around..."
"Huh?" Cyborg blinked. Bruce looked at him with concern.
"Confront him before the tests. Get him out of the way," he mused. "I could use a good laugh at the shock he'll get! But...Ambrosia needs me close, too. I'll talk about it later with her. Ah...hmm..."
"What?" Bruce asked.
"She needs me. I can feel it. I took up too much time!" Robin scowled at himself.
"You know this?" Cyborg asked.
"Her blood gave me this advantage with her. She can talk to me from anywhere. Like she can with Beast Boy. Ah! It's Aelfric! I have to go!" he cringed and made a beeline for the bedroom. Cyborg and Bruce looked at each other and followed. When they got there, Robin was already running a hand over Ambrosia's belly to comfort the irritated fetus. He made a soft, low tone to show he was there.
"You followed?" Jericho frowned, as he saw the other two come in. "You should both go to the main room. We'll be at Stonehenge shortly."
"Wow..." Bruce blinked at the luxurious room. When he saw Ambrosia in her wedding gown, she blushed and looked away. The dress was just barely able to support her pregnancy. It was designed to be worn for brides, not expecting mothers. Esmiralda was able to help with it, but Ambrosia would not be able to wear the dress again until after Aelfric was born.
"You need to go with the others. I will meet you there," Robin said, as he kept his hand over her growing belly. "I can't leave her right now. She'll suffer if I do."
"I'll go with you when you go," Bruce said.
"No," Robin said and looked over with a challenging glare. But, that was from Elvey. Bruce wanted to get close to Ambrosia. Why? It made no sense to me!
"Why are you so interested in my wife?" Jericho asked now. Cyborg frowned at this, but he wasn't asked to leave. He was going to bear witness to this.
"I just...feel concerned for her well-being..." Bruce said.
"But why?" Ambrosia frowned now. "For what purpose?"
"He wants to feel the pain Robin went through," Elvey muttered. "I told him he would know at Stonehenge. I think he wants to believe that he's up to par in physical and mental stamina with Robin."
"It would appear to be the case," Tintagel muttered back, as he emerged from Jericho. "Mr. Wayne, what Robin endured is not for you to bear. Why do you feel that this is important?"
"Robin was a bit of my apprentice. Now I see that he may have surpassed me," Bruce finally admitted. "It makes me feel...lesser. If you put it that way. I don't think the student should surpass the teacher so soon, you know?"
"Oh, please!" Elvey was barking out laughter now. "What I do to train Robin in dreams is nothing in comparison to what you did! He battles against illusions, needs to learn how to cast spells, force himself to push himself to further physical endurance..."
"He is learning how to not only battle Fae, but to protect against them, too," Tintagel nodded. "Same as King Jericho. They both do dream trainings together. Queen Ambrosia joins them to train in skills of etiquette with her mother close by."
"Is it possible for me to see one of these trainings?" Bruce asked now. That had Elvey make an odd sound, as he mulled it over.
"It...may be possible..." Elvey thought. "But, you would need to do one thing."
"What's that?" he asked.
"At Stonehenge, I will see about charging a moon crystal for you. Keep it by your bedside so I can find you. Then, when a dream training happens, as long as you are asleep at the same time, I will see about bringing you into it. Just remember! Robin accepted me as a father in his dreams. It was the only way for me to train him properly, and he had the decision to either not go with it, or to accept it. Nothing was forced. He wanted it. Just remember that," Elvey warned.
"I understand," Bruce nodded.
"We need to go to Stonehenge," she sighed. She was exhausted. Aelfric was draining her. Esmiralda was mentally concerned, but this was the child of death. This pregnancy will always be taxing. Jericho was quick to feed her a jar of incredibly strong honey. It was the only thing that would sate her voracious appetite. Nothing else would work.
"Mr. Wayne, you had better come with me. They'll be with us," Cyborg said.
"Hey, Robin! Everyone's waiting...oh...hi," Beast Boy said, as he skidded to a halt. He didn't expect to see Bruce with them. At the feel of Ambrosia's tension, he gave out a small, instinctive growl of warning. That made Bruce's jaw drop. Beast Boy was never one to show ill intention to allies.
"Easy, BB," Cyborg said. "Everything's cool."
"Is it? Judging by what Ambrosia's thinking, she's scared. So, it's not cool to me!" Beast Boy grumbled. "I'm not budging!"
"Beast Boy," she sighed softly. He whined and moved to her side to snuggle into her. She rested her hand in his hair to calm him down. Bruce was clearly in shock now.
"He responds to her empathy. It's instinctive. Far too instinctive for him to ignore, and he acts without thinking now. He's saved her from multiple incidents, as it is," Jericho said lightly. Beast Boy let out an instinctive hiss, but was quieted at her hand over his cheek.
"Guys, she's getting tired. We have to do this now," Beast Boy frowned when he was able to think again. "Sorry, Mr. Wayne, for acting like that. Like they said, um, I can't help it. But, we gotta go now. She's too worried about missing the moon over Stonehenge."
"Darling? Okay. We'll go," Jericho nodded and pressed a kiss to her mouth. "Cyborg, go to Herald and have him start sending people over. Mr. Wayne, if you will accompany him? Or are you traveling with us? What is your choice?"
"I'll go with you, since I'm right here," he said. Robin nodded, as Jericho prepared the teleportation spell. When Cyborg left, the five of them were gone.