Chapter 25
Nightwing tugged at the collar of his uniform and tried not to shuffle his feet.
Starfire stood by his side, a small secretive smile caressing her lips as she greeted yet another delegate from a planet within the System. Blackfire stood on his other side, with Galfore on the other side of Starfire. Strictly speaking, Blackfire had more status than he did, he was still reeling with the knowledge that he outranked the A'ninl, so he should have been standing on Blackfire left instead of her right, but Galfore had insisted that he stand beside Starfire, no matter what. Not that Blackfire actually seemed to mind; she'd simply smiled and nodded knowingly and moved. If he glanced down the ranks of Tamaranians that stood on Blackfire's left side waiting patiently to greet people, he knew he'd spot Auvy'r two down from Blackfire, his father Duvy'r standing beside her.
He'd had no idea how popular Starfire really was. Every representative from the other planets had something to say to him about how special she truly was. So many stories from the scores of people she'd rescued, so many well wishes for their marriage when they'd discovered he was her chosen, Blackfire quietly translating their words for him. It was just incredible how many lives she had touched. She was a hero on Earth, but to these people, she was almost a god.
Her eyes kept casting themselves skyward, she was waiting for someone. Someone special, by the way she'd begun shifting nervously as the number of ships that descended on Tamaran had started dwindling.
Right now, she was speaking softly to an oversized red blob in a language that consisted of whistles and clicks. He watched her out of the corner of his eye as he nodded and placed his fist to his heart to salute the representative before him.
A light breeze swept along the landing bay today, it breathed through her hair and set it waving slightly. She didn't look quite so sad anymore, with that smile tugging the corner of her lips. There were still dark rings of exhaustion under her eyes and he'd yet to see her fly, but her flight was always one of the last things that returned when she was sad.
She must have caught him looking as she shifted slightly and tossed that wonderful mane of red hair, one of her eyes closing minutely in a secret wink just for him.
Nightwing watched absently as yet another ship landed and delivered its cargo of passengers and luggage before lifting off once more. Tamaranians in white flowing robes that Starfire had explained to be the scholars among them, moved in and collected the luggage, directing the visitor down the assembled line of dignitaries and trailed after them. How many more, Star?
You do not have to stay, she whispered into his mind at the same time as she greeted yet another dignitary. I could have one of the guards escort you back to Galfore's quarters.
He placed his fist to the heart, saluting again. No way. You're not leaving my sight.
An eyebrow raised at that, although she maintained a smile on her face as she spoke in a strange sing song language to a small pink, butterfly like creature.
Jeez, where do you keep all those languages? he asked as he watched her out of the corner of his eye. I've been watching you all afternoon, how many do you know?
She cocked her head in thought as she clucked a greeting. I am unsure. Possibly in the thousands, there are many languages in the universe.
He was sure he was going to have a bruise on his chest from all the saluting by the time this was over. Thousands? You've kissed thousands? he sent, trying not to have a wobble in his mind voice.
She giggled into his mind. Of course not. Do not be silly. The scholars go and collect languages and distribute them. I would only have had to have lip contact with one of them to receive all the languages I know.
Oh. That made him feel slightly better. Question, how is everyone going to understand everyone else tomorrow? There are so many languages; you can't have a Tamaranian translator for all of them right?
We will not need to. The C'mysta, the purple wispy people you saw before, have the technology to produce a universal translator. Those that require translations, such as yourself, will receive an earpiece that will make it so that you hear every word being spoken as your own. I have already ensured that it contains English for you.
Whew, he breathed a sigh of relief, greeting the dignitary for him with a small smile and yet another fist to a bruised heart. Thank God. I was afraid you'd have to spend the day translating everything for me again.
She cast him a hurt look. I do not mind translating everything for you, Richard.
I know, he murmured in reply. And I really appreciate the effort you went to in the A'ninl meeting. But you've got to translate, and explain things as we go, plus respond diplomatically when people ask you questions. I just know it must be hard for you to do all that at once.
She glanced at him again, a tiny smile of appreciation on her face. I find it easy. But then, this is what I was trained to do, much like you and your strategic mind.
I guess so.
Blackfire leaned in close, talking in hushed tones, indicating the being before him. "This is Jundo of the Frietheras. He was one of the first smuggled to safety by Kori. He would like your permission to give her thanks in the customs of his people, which is a lovely big slobbering lick."
"Why is he asking my permission?" he asked quietly, considering the strange floating being that seemed to be constructed purely of light before him.
"On his planet, males do not speak to or look at females that belong to another without first asking permission of the males they belong to. They make exceptions for translators and other races, but it is still considered polite to ask before touching them."
"Um… a lick?"
"They call it a lick, really he will touch his light on her for a brief moment. Like a lick of light."
"Oh…" he glanced at Starfire. Star, this… being… wants to lick you. What do you want me to do?
She turned her head to him, smiling as she saw who he was speaking of. If you do not mind, I would like to receive the thanks.
He did mind, he minded a great deal, but he was forced to play with a different set of rules on Tamaran. If he objected, the planet that Jundo came from might take offense and remove their support from the treaty that Starfire had worked so hard to build, a treaty that he was not going to jeopardize because of a little jealousy.
"Tell him that's fine," he said to Blackfire, trying not to seem to put out.
She raised an eyebrow at him and turned back to face Jundo, speaking with him in a language that sounded like puffs of air.
Jundo's light flashed briefly before he drifted toward Starfire, a single tendril of light licking out from his form and touched her lightly on the forehead.
Starfire smiled at him and inclined her head and Jundo bowed before floating off.
That was interesting, she whispered into his mind. My head feels all tingly and warm.
He fought not to react, giving her a slight nod.
Starfire suddenly squealed in delight and broke ranks, dashing through the oncoming dignitaries and dropped to her knees, throwing her arms around a small, blue, fox-like creature. Nightwing raised an eyebrow while Galfore signaled with his head that he should follow his wayward chosen.
She turned back to him as he approached, her eyes filled with happy tears. "Look," she said softly. "It is Yurip!"
Nightwing instantly placed a hand to his fist in greeting and bowed before dropping to his knees beside Starfire. He studied the small creature in Starfire's arms. There was certainly something feminine about it. Small pointed ears protruded from a long mane of blue fur, a small snout and sharp teeth, a long bushy tail. It was almost as though one of the foxes from Earth had stood up on its hind legs and walked. She wore a white flowing tunic, trimmed with gold, her canine like feet were bare and gold bracers around her wrists. "Greetings," he said, in the best Tamaranian he could manage.
Yurip blinked her overly large eyes at him and she barked something.
Starfire blinked in surprise before she blushed and barked a series of yips back.
Yurip's head swung back to her, her mouth lolling open in what Nightwing could only assume was surprise. Yurip look back at him with renewed interest, crawling out of Starfire's lap and stood in front of him. Since he was kneeling down, he was able to look her in the eye. She sniffed and snuffled at him as she placed one delicate paw on each of his temples. He drew back in surprise, pulling his head out from between her paws.
"Hold still," Starfire said softly. "This will not hurt."
He eyed her. "What?"
"Trust me. She wishes to speak with you."
He frowned and submitted to Yurip's touch.
- You are Koriand'r's chosen, - whispered a soft waterfall voice directly into his mind. - You may speak aloud, one will understand. -
That unnerved him, he didn't like people just entering his mind like that, beside Starfire and Raven on occasion. "Um, yes."
- And you are not Tamaranian. -
Nightwing frowned. "No."
- Do not be concerned. One was merely making an observation. Greetings, he who is known as…-
"Nightwing."
- Nightwing. An interesting name. One is known as Yurip. -
"Yes, I know. Starfire has told me about you. Thank you for helping her in the Citadel."
Yurip regarded him with dry amusement. - She has not told her chosen everything. It was only through her assistance that one was able to escape. -
"Yeah, but you taught her to unlock-"
Do not mention the collars aloud, Richard. There are many here for which it would contain bad memories.
Yurip yipped, her paws drawing away from Nightwing's head before she turned to Starfire and barked rapidly, her tail swishing.
Starfire went red, her hands drawn up to her chest. She nodded and replied.
Yurip turned and placed her paws back against Nightwing's temples. - This is truly wondrous. To be joined to another as such without the need of physical contact, it is something ones race has only dreamed upon. -
She heard me, Starfire explained sheepishly.
- One is most happy for ones friend and her chosen. -
"Um, thanks."
- There will be time for greetings and discussions later. One must continue with ones delegation. - Yurip released Nightwing's head again and turned to Starfire, pressing her nose against hers for a moment, issuing another burst of small yips and barks, before she bounded off, followed by four others of her race, heading over to greet Galfore.
Nightwing looked at Starfire, her head bowed. You okay?
She looked up at him, her smile trembling. She looks well, yes? There is no hitch to her walk, no sadness in her eyes. I did not believe she still lived.
He placed a hand on her shoulder briefly and got to his feet, offering her his hand. I don't think there's going to be a shortage of emotional greetings for you today, but I'm glad she's still alive too.
She allowed him to pull her to her feet and he could see all she wanted was a hug, but she raised her head, readjusted her crown and walked back to her place beside Galfore.
Gradually, the number of dignitaries' ships landing stopped, although Nightwing counted well over a hundred races. Starfire explained that while only nine races would represent the planets, there were many that had come to witness. It seemed the Citadel's arms were long reaching.
Nightwing breathed a sigh of relief and rubbed the back of his neck as the last dignitary passed him. He squashed the urge to stretch and yawn, knowing it was unbecoming.
He glanced over at the sun; it had just started to set, creating an orange flare over the desert landscape of Tamaran. Any chance we can slip away for a while?
Starfire turned her head to gauge the sun, before speaking to Galfore softly.
"Thank X'hal that's over," said Blackfire quietly, shaking out her arms and planted them on her hips, relaxing that stiff backed stance she'd been in. "I hate that part of royal life. Now I remember why I traveled for so long."
He gave her a wiry smile. "I totally agree with you."
"You did well," she replied, looking at him. "Done this kind of thing before?"
He raised his eyebrows. "Yeah. You could say that. It's nothing new, perhaps not on this scale, but yeah, done this before."
She humphed. "Now all we have left is the banquet tonight, but at least that's not for another two hours. They tend to be worse."
He glanced at her sideways. "Anything like the welcoming banquet for the xhandal?"
She smiled. "Yeah, they would be similar I guess. Expect that there will be more people, more smiling and greetings. Everyone's going to be looking at you though, Nightwing."
He nodded. "I guessed that. Thanks for the translations, they were a great help."
Blackfire shrugged. "I don't mind. It's not like they came to talk to me."
"And how do you feel about that?" he asked cautiously.
She grinned suddenly. "On this? Kori can have all the limelight she wants. I don't envy her. She deserves it. She's worked so hard on this treaty." She sobered, the grin dropping from her face as she regarded him. "You know, you hurt her like that again, and I'm going to kick your spiky haired ass from here to Drenthax-Four and allow Glurdulskletch-hh to use you as a tissue."
He nodded. "If I hurt her again, I'm gonna let you."
Blackfire nodded in agreement, her eyes narrow. "I knew she'd forgive you though. X'hal, she forgave me and I did stuff to her that was just as bad."
He considered her. "Doesn't make it okay."
Blackfire dropped her eyes. "Yeah, I know." She flicked her eyes back up to him and grinned cheekily again. "It's good to see the old Kori returning though. Kinda missed her."
Nightwing nodded. "Yeah, I missed her too."
Blackfire was silent for a moment before that grin grew wider. "I can't believe your name is D-"
"Yeah, yeah," he said interrupting her. "Make fun of it."
"Does Kori even know the other meanings of the name?" she asked mischievously.
He grunted at her. "I think I'd prefer her to remain blissfully ignorant of it, thanks."
"Aww," she drawled, nudging him with her elbow. "I'm sure it will be fun to explain it to her. You do so well on everything else."
He squinted at her. "How is it that you know the meaning?"
"I got to travel, remember? Words of slang are easier to pick up once you've done it hundreds of times across the sectors. I just wonder if I should inform Auvy'r of-"
"Don't you dare," he hissed, causing Blackfire to erupt in laughter.
Nightwing felt his face going red as Auvy'r peered around his father curiously. "Did someone mention my name?" he asked innocently.
"No," Nightwing said immediately, scuffing his shoe on the ground. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Galfore lean down to speak with one of the many guards that had stood behind them in silent protection for the greeting procession. He then turned and called something out in Tamaranian, gesturing to the A'ninl. They saluted and broke ranks either walking back into the palace, or flying off.
Nightwing felt Starfire's hand slip into his, before she tugged at him gently. "There is one more ship coming in," she replied softly. "But the A'ninl do not need to be here for this one. As the ship has only just entered orbit, Galfore has said that we can watch the sunset from here."
She led him to the most secluded edge of the landing bay that faced the sunset. It wasn't really private, if he turned his head he could still see the long line of passive guards standing at attention, could still see Galfore and Blackfire in quiet conversation. He sat down, dangling on leg over the edge, propping his other leg up to give her the feel of a seat and pulled her into his lap.
She sighed and wiggled in closer. You did well.
I could say the same for you. He tilted his head so that it rested against hers, his knee pressed against her back, one arm around her shoulder.
Tamaranian politics is somewhat different than the parties we had to attend on Earth. She took his other hand, resting it her knee and entwined their fingers.
The principles the same. Smile politely, watch what you say. Only this time, I'm the eye candy on your arm, not the other way around.
Starfire frowned, her face concentrating for a moment, before understanding dawned and she giggled. Eye candy, what a delightful expression. Oh yes, you are definitely candy for the eyes, Richard.
He nuzzled her and turned back to the sunset. So, anything special I need to know for tonight?
She sighed. No. Just continue what you are doing. Stay close.
I can do that. He echoed her sigh, rubbing her shoulder as the sun dipped lower. A soft breeze wafted, tossing their hair as it changed temperature, becoming cooler with the taste of night and Nightwing smelled that familiar smell of sun baked sand as it cooled. Two of the four moons of Tamaran crested over the horizon and drifted into the sky.
I really missed this time with you, he murmured into her mind, shifting the hand on her shoulder to her neck, massaging his fingers at her hairline. Sunsets were the hardest.
She leaned into him. Yes, I agree. I did yearn for you dreadfully during sunset.
I didn't miss one, you know. I thought about you every day.
She turned her head toward him, her eyes shining and all he really wanted to do was kiss her. He knew he couldn't though, still too many Tamaranians around.
Starfire released the hand that was on her knee, cupping his face, her thumb gently stroking his lips and pressed her cheek to his. She made a purring noise at the back of her throat as she rubbed their cheeks together.
There was a roaring of engines behind them, followed by the clunk of a ship landing on the pad and Nightwing frowned. The sound of those engines was so familiar. He absently turned his head and nearly fell over.
Starfire followed his gaze, before she squealed with delight.
"Holy shit," he blurted, gazing up at the ship in shock.
There, glistening in the rapidly fading sunlight of Tamaran's sun, stood the Batplane.
Starfire ignored all protocol as she got to her feet and dashed over to Batman as he leapt from the plane and tackled him.
Nightwing actually heard his father give a small bark of laughter as he patted Starfire lightly on the back and disengaged himself from her. "Hello, Starfire," Batman said tonelessly. "You look well."
Starfire bounced up and down on her toes and Nightwing could do nothing but stare in surprise. "I did not believe you would come," she exclaimed excitedly.
Batman placed a hand on her shoulder, halting her incessant bouncing. "After how hard you worked on that treaty, I couldn't miss your big day."
"Greetings," Galfore said, lumbering up to them, placing a fist to his heart. "I am Galfore, Koriand'r's k'norfka and Grand Ruler of Tamaran."
"Greetings," Batman replied stoically, but Nightwing could see he was having trouble maintaining a straight face as he looked up at the huge Tamaranian. "I'm Batman, Nightwing's father."
"It is a pleasure to meet the father of my little bungorf's chosen. I welcome you to Tamaran."
Blackfire waved two fingers at him and smirked. "I can certainly see the family resemblance."
Batman narrowed his eyes at her. "You would be Blackfire," he said impassively.
"That's me," she replied tartly.
Starfire turned her head and looked over at him. Richard, come and greet your father.
Nightwing slowly got to his feet and walked over to the gathering and he could sense the waves of disapproval wafting from his father. Sure enough, as he reached them, his father's hand snaked out from beneath the cape and clipped him across the back of the head. Both Galfore and Blackfire looked surprised, while Starfire frowned.
He sighed and rubbed the back of his head. "Nice to see you too," he muttered.
"Took you long enough," Batman droned.
Nightwing frowned. "I though you wanted me to stop shirking my duties and get on with my life."
Batman echoed his frown while Starfire's arms drew up to her chest in shock. "I actually gave you three choices, or didn't your thick, stubborn brain hear them. I told you before, anyone that can make Alfred eat with us is a keeper."
Nightwing felt grumpy at that. "You could have just said that then."
Batman snorted. "Like you actually listen to anything I say. After seeing your unwashed, unshorn ass wallowing on the floor, would you have really listened to me if I just gave you the answer? You would have done the opposite, just to spite me. After that spiel you gave me at Christmas, I couldn't believe you let her go so easily."
"Yeah okay. You've made your point." Nightwing frowned. "What are you doing here?"
Batman made a clucking noise with his tongue. "Someone had to help Starfire smooth out the finer points of that treaty."
That was another kick in the teeth that he hadn't been prepared for, another thing that should have been him. He'd failed Starfire. And it irked him that Starfire confided in his father and not in him.
Batman smirked at him, obviously seeing the effect that particular statement had had on him.
"Perhaps this is not the best place to be having this discussion," Starfire said softly. "Please, let us go back to Galfore's chamber. I am certain that Fyria has baked many pies for us to consume before the banquet tonight."
"Your transportation will be perfectly safe here," Galfore said.
Batman nodded and retrieved a bag from the Batplane, locking the plane up tight.
Fyria was in the kitchen when they arrived at Galfore's chambers and Nightwing could hear her singing softly to herself.
"D'anthe l'ani," Galfore called, closing the front door behind them. "We have a guest."
"I shall be there in a moment," she called.
"Prepare to be manhandled," Nightwing said softly to his father as he removed his mask and stashed it in his belt.
Batman raised an eyebrow at him, his face blank.
Blackfire stalked across the room and flopped down on the sofa, placing her feet up on the coffee table, only to receive a smack to the back of the head by Fyria as she waddled into the room, wiping her hands on a towel. "Kom, remove your feet from the furniture, Cyridor will be here in an hour to escort you to the banquet. Perhaps you should freshen up?" Blackfire blanched and bolted for her room while Starfire giggled. "And Kori, Dick, Raven requests that you contact her when you have a moment, although I did explain you would be pressed for time today." Her messages delivered, she flicked her eyes to Batman and smiled broadly. "And you would be Dick's father, I have heard much about you."
Batman inclined his head, the barest hint of movement. "Likewise."
Dick frowned, surely they knew each other. Batman had said that it was Fyria that contact him after Starfire had left. He glanced at Starfire and closed his eyes briefly, feeling stupid. It had been Starfire's doing all along and he'd been too stubborn to see it.
Fyria peered at Batman, stopping just before him and she suddenly rocked up on her toes and kissed him full on the mouth.
The bag Batman was holding went clunk as it hit the ground.
Starfire's jaw dropped while Dick burst into laughter and Galfore looked slightly bored.
Batman jerked his head backward as though he had been burned, his hands on Fyria shoulders, and his expression dark and confused. He released her shoulders and stepped backward, slamming his back into the front door. He wrapped himself in his cape, looking as though he wished the ground would swallow him. Dick didn't think he'd ever seen his father looking so flustered as he constantly cast concerned looks at Galfore.
"I have done wrong?" Fyria asked mildly, turning to Dick, her eyes questioning.
"On the cheek, family and friends on the cheek," he chuckled, tears forming in his eyes. "Claimed, chosen and married on the lips."
"I apologise," Fyria said merrily, her eyes twinkling. "I am still learning the human kissing. I am Fyria."
"I…er… Batman," he replied, a slight waver to his voice and that just made Dick laugh even harder.
Fyria cast Dick a sly glance. "Your father had much the same reaction as when I tried the kissing with you."
The laughter choked in his throat and Dick went bright red and it was Starfire's turn to burst into laughter. "I knew it!" she cried, holding her stomach. "I knew that was why you were acting strangely that night."
"Kori, you should not laugh at your chosen," Fyria chided sternly as she turned back to Batman. "You know more languages, however."
"He does?" Starfire asked, her eyebrows shooting up to her hairline.
Fyria nodded and turned to Starfire. "Oh, that does the reminding of me. I went to the scholars and updated my languages like you requested, Kori. Would you like them now? I am sure they will help with tonight's banquet."
Batman raised an eyebrow.
"Tamaranians learn new languages through lip contact," Dick said in quiet explanation as Starfire pressed her lips to Fyria's. "Kissing is not a sign of affection to them. Oh, don't let any of them near your neck."
Batman frowned. "Why?"
"Because that's how they claim you, a bite to the neck. If one of them bites you, you're considered dating."
Batman looked at him blandly.
Dick shrugged.
Starfire pulled away from Fyria and placed a hand to her head, shutting her eyes. "Ooh."
Dick instantly placed a concerned hand on her back. "Star?"
She blinked open her eyes and looked at him, swaying slightly. "I was missing so many… it is difficult to assimilate so many at once."
Fyria frowned, her hands around her pregnant belly. "You are overtaxing yourself again, Kori. Dick, take her and make her rest for a while. It will not do if she collapses again."
Dick frowned as he wrapped his arms around Starfire. "Again?"
But Fyria did not seem forthcoming with information as she turned back to Batman. "You will be staying with us for a while, yes? I have prepared a room in the hope that you would come."
"I can stay a few days," Batman replied stoically. "Thank you for the offer."
Fyria nodded and headed toward the kitchen. "You are most welcome here. Come, I have just finished baking a batch of pies."
"Zorkaberry?" Galfore asked hopefully.
"Galfore, would you place Batman's baggage in the spare room please?" Fyria said, ignoring him. "Dick, your father will be perfectly fine, tend to Kori. I will come and get you before the banquet starts."
Galfore grumbled and picked up the bag, lumbering out of the room, while Batman cast Dick a cool look that said volumes and followed Fyria. Dick turned to Starfire, who still looked slightly woozy. "C'mon," he said, picking her up and carrying her to her bedroom. "You look like you need to sleep for a while."
"I am fine," she mumbled softly.
"No, you're not," he replied, shifting his grip on her so he could open her bedroom door. "Star, you're exhausted. You look like you haven't slept in weeks. You've got a huge day tomorrow. Have a rest for a while."
He lay her on the bed, shifting to pull off her boots before kissing her on the forehead. Her hand snaked out to grip his uniform. "Stay with me?"
He nodded. "Of course, Star," he whispered, pausing to pull off his own gloves, belt and boots and lying down beside her, wrapping his arms around her. She snuggled into him immediately, her body pressed against his, her hands making small stroking motions on his chest. He ran his fingers through her hair, marveling at the feel of its silky strands between his fingers.
"Star?" he whispered after a while. "What did Fyria mean when she said you'd collapsed?"
When no answer was forthcoming, he tilted his head to see her face, surprised to discover her fast asleep.
He caressed her cheek with his fingertips, kissed her sleeping lips and settled down.
Fyria quietly opened the door a short time later, cautiously poking her head through and peered into the room.
She gave a soft smile at the couple sleeping on the bed, Starfire's head pressed against Dick's chest, her legs entwined with his, his arms around her as he hugged her close. They both looked so peaceful and content, something Fyria had not seen in Starfire's face for such a long time.
She closed the door without bothering them.
TTTTT
Nightwing leaned against the edge of the balcony, peering out into the starlit desert of Tamaran. The chatter of a thousand languages rabbled and merged together behind him.
He'd seen Blackfire staying close to Cyridor throughout the night and the pair of them speaking in hushed tones, their heads close together, their bodies always in contact with the other. He'd seen Fyria watching them closely, although she tried to look as though she wasn't and Nightwing instinctively knew she was waiting for the chosen announcement.
Batman, in his usual stoic manner, had only answered direct questions presented to him from the other races and Tamaranians that were curious as to who he was. And he'd given them all one-word answers if he could help it. Gradually, people had taken the hint and left him alone. He'd stood in the corner most of the night, an imposing figure wrapped up in his black cape, his watchful eyes seeing everything yet expressing nothing. Nightwing wished he could stand in a corner and not be bothered too.
Nightwing had done his best, he'd stayed by Starfire's side throughout the night, watching as she talked and laughed with many of the delegates from the other planets. She seemed so comfortable, relaxed.
And he felt like he was intruding. This was her world, not his. This was the kind of world she'd grown up in. Not completely, since she'd also been on Okaara for some of her childhood, and taken by the Citadel. But this was a world where she knew everything that was going on, almost everyone in that room, and he was the outsider peering in.
At least now he knew how she felt on Earth.
His translator for the evening turned out to be Oirni, Auvy'r's husband, and he was pretty sure Starfire had intended it that way. It seemed there were few people outside her family that she trusted to be around him, and Auvy'r and Oirni had somehow earned that trust.
There was certainly something effeminate about Oirni, he didn't carry himself the way other Tamaranians tended to, but he wasn't like the blatant drag queens of Earth either. And he was the first true scholar that Nightwing had met, having dedicated his life to the arts rather than war. He, like all the other scholars that had volunteered their services to be translators to the other races present, wore a long, white flowing robe, and the gray gorget, his brown hair tied neatly in a plait.
At least Oirni wasn't flirting with him like Auvy'r did.
"I am unsure that it is wise to be out here," Oirni said softly, standing several paces behind him. "Princess Koriand'r did mention to me her concerns with you being alone."
"Yeah, I know," he replied, looking up at the four moons of Tamaran. "I'm just… having a minute to myself, that's all."
"I understand," Oirni said and Nightwing turned to look back at the man. Oirni smiled, his clasped hands hidden by the sleeves of that overly long robe. "I am a scholar, Nightwing. I much prefer the company of documents. But I attend these events, even if is just to offer my services as a translator, because this is Auvy'r's world, just as it is Koriand'r's." He glanced over his shoulder. "I shall wait for you by the door."
"Why don't you go and see Auvy'r for a while?"
Oirni shook his head, his eyes unreadable. "I shall wait for you by the door."
Nightwing turned back to the starry sky of Tamaran.
"Brooding?"
Nightwing sighed. "No. Just having a break."
"It's a very different world than Earth."
Nightwing looked at his father, surprised at the admission.
Batman shrugged and stood impassively beside him, his cape draped around him like a shield. "At least I understand why she was so comfortable in ours."
Nightwing nodded. "Yeah."
"She's a good girl, Dick," Batman said in his usual emotionless manner. "A strong woman and a very powerful leader in her own right. And I think she's proved that she doesn't need you to be able to do great things. Look at what she's done for her people, this System. She could do even greater things if she stayed here. Women like her shouldn't be caged."
Nightwing nodded again, closing his eyes.
"Did you make up your mind of what you really wanted?"
He remained silent.
"Let me give you a piece of advice," Batman said impassively. "And I want you to really listen to me this time. Don't you dare pull her away from this world, from this peace she created, from this life that she could have if you're even the slightest bit concerned about your feelings from her. She deserves better than that."
"I know," he replied with a heavy heart.
"You proved that you could function without her too, even if you needed a good boot to get you going. You both have duties," Batman continued tonelessly. "Duties to your own planets. You are heroes."
"I don't always want to be a hero," Nightwing admitted. "At the end of the day, what do we have left? An emptiness, a bitterness. I want to be able to settle down eventually. Have a family. Have a life that doesn't threaten mine every single day. And I wanted to have that with her."
"Wanted?" Batman asked blandly.
Trust his father to pick up on that. "I don't know any more," he said honestly. "I just don't. I love her so much, but you're right, I don't have the right to ask her to leave all this behind and come back to Earth with me. I've hurt her so many times. Too many. And this last time…" He hung his head, leaning heavily on the balcony. "I was just so stupid. I hurt her so much. After I promised to hear her side first, the next time it came around, I just went off the deep end and didn't listen. And I can't even say that I won't hurt her again, because some part of me knows I will."
Nightwing felt his father's hand on his shoulder. "Which is why you won't."
"You don't know that. I don't know that. I can't trust myself with her. I wasn't even here for her when she needed me." He froze and looked at his father. "And you were."
Batman removed his hand and looked out onto Tamaran. "I made a point of checking in on her every now and then during your separation. Most of the time she put on a brave face but I caught her on a bad day and she blurted out some of the trouble she'd been having with the A'ninl and how she was having difficulties finding a solid solution and writing up a treaty. I offered to help. She had it in reasonably good shape, just needed a few pointers, a few loopholes closed. She's very sly, she had this interesting backdoor for herself, took me a while to work out how she did it."
Nightwing studied his hands as they clenched on the balcony edge. "Thanks," he replied meaningfully.
"You need to decide what you want to do, whether she's your past, or your future. And soon, because according to Fyria, she's not going to let Starfire go back to Earth unmarried."
Nightwing snorted. "Yeah, Star mentioned that."
Batman's voice held a barest hint of wistfulness. "She's a strange one. Very domineering, in a sweet sort of way. Galfore's a lucky man. I can see a lot of Fyria in Starfire. Tell me, did you really beat Galfore in a fight?"
Nightwing nodded. "Yup."
Batman gave a long whistle. "Damn."
Nightwing gave a short bark of laughter. "Yeah."
Batman turned to regard him seriously. "Don't string her along, Dick, she deserves better. She's come this far without you, she can continue. If you love her enough, if you're certain, go for it. But if there is even an iota of doubt, you don't have the right to ask her to leave Tamaran for you. Just don't be stupid again and blurt it out tonight, she needs to be strong for tomorrow." Batman's hand clasped his shoulder once more, before it was gone and Nightwing resigned himself to being alone.
He wasn't alone for long.
"Richard?"
He turned and smiled at her, his heart still heavy, but his father was right. She couldn't afford another setback right now. "Hi, Star."
"You should not be out here alone," she said sternly but gently as she walked toward him. "You should have come back inside when Batman did."
He saw Auvy'r standing at the doorway alongside Oirni, speaking with his husband quietly. Auvy'r was the taller of the two, almost a full head above Oirni and he bent his neck to lean in close as they spoke, Auvy'r's hand on Oirni's neck and Nightwing saw they were effectively blocking the balcony door from observers.
He sighed, hoping she hadn't actually heard the conversation between him and Batman and turned back toward the horizon. "I know. I'm sorry, I just needed some space for a moment."
He felt her take his hand, nestling it inside her own. "You are finding things difficult?"
"A little," he said with a nod, squeezing her hand.
"You are doing very well," she said with a smile. "You did not react at all when Mynuous of the Stykx greeted me."
He went red. "Oh God, Star. I so wanted to deck him in that moment. But you didn't seemed concerned when he grabbed your breast like that and there are so many strange customs that I have to try and remember… I didn't want to jeopardize your treaty."
She shifted close to him. "You had no way of knowing that that was the way the Stykx greeted others. And the fact that you were willing to allow him to do that and trusted me to explain it afterward-" She looked at him, an adoring smile on her face. "It meant a great deal to me."
"Heart trust," he said quietly, his eyes locked on hers. "I'm trying, Star."
"I know," she whispered, her hands coming up to caress his neck.
He sighed, leaning into her, resting his forehead on hers, his hands tugging lightly at the folds of her clothing around her hips. "I lov-"
She clapped her hand over his mouth, her eyes darting to the couple at the door. Richard! You must not. Expressing love is viewed as a sign of weakness!
He went red, eyeing the oblivious couple at the door as well. Oh God, I'm sorry. I forgot.
Her fingers caressed his lips for a moment, sliding back down to cradle his neck. Do not let it concern you, d'anthe l'ani, she murmured. You have had to digest so much new information in such a small time.
At least I know how you must have felt on your first few weeks on Earth. At the xhandal we didn't really have to worry about it too much, we just stayed in our rooms. So many new customs and greetings, so many things that could be taken the wrong way, or viewed as a sign of weakness. I feel like I'm drowning.
She smiled, rubbing her nose against hers. You are doing better than I did on Earth. I do believe I made many cultural fumblings and inappropriate sayings during that time.
"Kori, Nightwing," Fyria said from the door and as one they tilted their heads to see her without releasing the other. Fyria was looking at them, a small smile on her face, her hands clasped on her belly. "I do apologise for the interruption. I know you are having a moment together in quietness, but there are many more representatives to greet tonight and they are asking for you."
"Yes, Fyria," Starfire said, caressing his neck with her thumb one last time. She straightened up, her hands dropping to her sides as Fyria slipped back inside past Oirni and Auvy'r.
Nightwing smiled at her, offering her the crock of his arm and she giggled at him, linking her elbow with his.
Auvy'r raised his head as they approached, releasing his husband, all flirting cast aside. "All is well, Koriand'r?" he asked quietly.
Starfire nodded. "I thank you Auvy'r, that was appreciated."
"Good," he said quietly. "Chuntos of the Kyrdon is the next awaiting your pleasure, he has expressed concern with regard to the treaty, and although I have informed him that tonight is simply a welcoming banquet, I believe he would be more at ease if you were to speak with him."
Starfire nodded again. "What else?"
"There is some unease amongst the scholars," Oirni said. "A few of the A'ninl have been spotted speaking in clumps, but when my colleagues get close they quieten."
"I was aware of this," Starfire said with a glance at Nightwing. "Just as I am certain that I know of whom they are speaking."
Nightwing fought to keep his face bland.
Auvy'r nodded. "He does seem to be the topic on everyone's lips," he said with a smile that made Nightwing roll his eyes beneath his mask. Auvy'r pursed his lips, looking back out into the sea of people. "I shall see if I can determine their intentions." He looked at Oirni, pressed his cheek against his husbands for a moment and vanished into the crowd.
Starfire looked at Nightwing while Oirni retreated several paces to give them the appearance of privacy. Auvy'r and Oirni have been my eyes and ears amongst the other Tamaranians. People tend to forget about the scholars and speak freely amongst their presence and Auvy'r has accompanied Komand'r, Galfore and myself to every meeting with the representatives from other planets. They are comfortable with him. It is my hope Auvy'r can take my place amongst the representatives when this is over so I can return home.
Good plan, Star, he whispered. Shall we get this over and done with?
Starfire nodded, leaned over and pressed her lips against his cheek and allowed him to lead her back inside.
Next Chapter: Meeting with the Citadel.