Finally!
Here it is! The wedding! I want to dedicate this to The Villian's Vindication since I didn't have time to write her a Christmas-drabble, and to everyone else who wanted to be invited … oh, and The Darkest Half, without whom the first part wouldn't exist… Because I had completely forgotten about a particular custom… -grins-
Grab your passports, girls! ;o)
Before we start, however, there are a few things I would like to mention.
Firstly, the usual: the Teen Titans and stuff does not belong to me. I just pair them up strangely and marry them off. Apparently.
Secondly: I do in no way condone the use of alcohol… the stuff seriously rots your brain and most of us can't afford that. If I drink I'm afraid I will start writing Smurf-slash. Would you like that, huh? Would you? Didn't think so… BUUUUT in some cases… errr… even though I myself would never… err.. Fuck…. Let's just say it: there is some drinking in this fic, kay? Let me please get away with it this time?
Thirdly: As you might remember, I wrote a drabble a long time ago called "Getaway" which took place on the island we are now soon going to revisit. That drabble was an alternative ending, sort of, to "Terms of Endearment" and I left it up to you to decide if it happened or not, as it really didn't matter much for the sake of the "future drabbles". In this story, just know that, either way, Slade and Robin have visited the island before, several times, and so Robin knows it well.
Blessings
It was the 29'th of December and everything was packed and ready for them to leave for the island around midday the next day. Every single employee had been invited to the ceremony, but they would spend the rest of the holiday in a luxury resort on the mainland; the island itself was reserved for Robin and Slade, as well as a skeleton crew and, naturally, Red and Speedy. Robin felt a bit unsure about that detail, but figured the island was big enough for all of them… the other couple had also promised to respect their privacy, or, as Red put it: 'we will be too busy fucking to pay any attention to you'.
Everything being ready was a good thing, Robin supposed, but it left him painfully restless. He wanted it to be time to leave right now, and was jittery with the need for something to do. As he and Slade were currently walking down the hall to their sitting room, Robin was seriously entertaining the thought of doing Slade. He didn't think the man would mind much. He was just about to ask, by brushing up to him, when two figures suddenly blocked their way.
"Freeze!" one of them hissed menacingly.
"Oh, please, Red, get a grip…" the other one muttered, but stood his ground firmly, making sure they couldn't get pass.
"What is the meaning of this?" Slade growled. "Shouldn't you two be home, packing?"
"Pack what? The only thing we'll need is sun block and lube, and really, that's only one thing if you find the right brand…" Red said, waving the remark away. "This is a kidnapping."
"Pardon?" Slade said again, Robin still hadn't quite found his voice.
"Yes. Please wear these." Speedy said, looking embarrassed and holding out two blindfolds.
"What are you doing?" Robin finally asked, sounding more intrigued than irritated. Something was at least happening!
"We are kidnapping you for your bachelor party..." Red said, sounding like he was explaining things to an idiot.
"Don't you mean parties… and what's up with the lame ass kidnapping?" Robin smirked.
"Don't get too pissed now, but, well…" Red scratched the back of his neck and glanced over at Speedy, who still looked really embarrassed. "The thing is, we thought about jumping you, but well... we did want to live… and none of us really wanted to take Slade out on the town on our own, because… well… again, we wanted to live… and since you both are bachelors, we thought we'd take you out together…?"
"We have better things to do." Slade snorted, and was about to push the redheads aside, when Robin's hand grabbed his arm.
"No, wait… lets?"
Slade turned his head and looked down into pleading eyes he rarely could say no to.
"You want to go out? With them? Have you any idea what they might have planned?"
"Nope. But I'm sure it will make the time just fly!" Robin grinned.
"Well, what about safety?" Slade objected once more. "We might need shots…" he added, muttering.
"Oh, it's peeeeerfectly safe!" Red assured him.
"Speedy?" Slade turned to the slightly more sensible of the two.
"It's safe. We're taking you to a club. Members only. Tight security."
"…and everything else…" Red provided, but got an elbow in the stomach for the information.
Slade made a growling noise, but then sighed in defeat.
"We'll go."
"Blindfo-"
"No."
"Didn't think so." Speedy stuffed the things back into his pocket.
The others still refused to tell them exactly where they were going, and after driving across the immense city for almost an hour, Robin started to rethink his decision. Slade noticed his fidgeting and snorted, letting Robin know that he was on his own in this, and if he wanted to deal with it, he had to do it by himself. Robin rolled his eyes and leaned back into the seat, trying to look completely relaxed.
They arrived by the back door of some building, and as they entered, Robin felt like he had been transported to a different world. A world where red and gold could, apparently, never be used too much. They were led to one of only a few empty booths that were all facing a long stage and were filled with pillows, making Robin think of a play-pen. Slade seemed to think along the same lines.
"This looks like a cheap brothel." he muttered.
"Been to many, have you?" Red quipped. "Besides, don't say that! This isn't a cheap one!"
Robin was about to turn on his heel, when Speedy caught him.
"Nope, you don't!" the archer said, and pushed his friend down into the pillows. "It's not really that bad, and you need to do some research."
"Research?" Robin said suspiciously. Roy knew how much he liked research…
"Yes, we are starting the classes in January!" Roy reminded him "Now you'll get to see how the professionals do it… Think you can be as good as them?"
Robin snorted and settled back into the pillows, glaring at the still empty stage. Slade sank down next to him and the redheads settled on his other side.
Soon the lights dimmed and the performance began. A waiter appeared and Red ordered, but Robin didn't catch what he said over the music and the fact that his eyes seemed to be having trouble leaving the stage. There were both men and women up there, and the way they were moving was very…
Robin shook his head and cleared his throat, trying to get his mind out of the gutter.
"Well, I can do that!" he snorted at Speedy, gesturing to the stage where a man in his twenties was spinning around a pole.
"Yeah? What about now?" Speedy grinned and pointed. Robin looked back and felt his jaw drop.
"That… that might take some practice…" he admitted. Somehow, the man were spinning around the pole upside down, and as Robin watched he straightened out, feet pointing at the ceiling, like the little thing called gravity didn't matter all that much.
Robin glanced over at Slade and even he looked mildly impressed. That did it. Robin would learn everything that guy did and more…
In the mean time, the waiter had returned with a tray full of shots. There wasn't any table in their cozy little 'den' but, for that reason, there was a ledge at about elbow height, running all along the edges of the booth. Red nimbly placed the drinks on it and waved the man away.
"Here! Have one!" he offered Robin a glass, which the boy took reluctantly. Normally he didn't drink. He liked to keep his wits about him, and, really, it didn't taste all that good. Tonight, though, he was in a rather rebellious mood. He sniffed the drink that was suspiciously pink, wondering why Red couldn't have given him any other color, as he seemed to have ordered every one there was… and a few more. Well… it was such a small glass, after all… what harm could it do?
The drink tasted very sweet, almost like bubblegum, and Robin had the urge to try out a yellow one. This one tasted of exotic fruits, and that could never be unhealthy, could it?
Red then offered Slade a drink, which he declined. This didn't sit well with Robin at all. For once, for some reason, he wanted the stoic man to loosen up a bit as well. It wouldn't hurt the control freak to drop his guard a little. Robin therefore poured a blue-colored drink into his mouth and straddled the man, pressing their lips together. Slade wouldn't refuse what he thought was a kiss, and as the alcohol spilled between his lips, he had no other choice but to swallow. His hands tightened around Robin's hips, making sure the teen couldn't move before being properly punished.
Robin's offer turned into a real kiss for a moment, before the boy drew away slightly.
"See… wasn't so bad, was it?" he grinned.
"I'll drink anything of yours…" Slade leered, making Robin blush, before he was suddenly hoisted up in the air, half across the man's shoulder. Robin yelped as several hard swats landed on his behind, stinging, even through his jeans.
Red and Speedy howled with laughter, making the punishment even worse, and Robin's face was beet red as Slade placed him firmly back in his lap.
"Now don't do it again." the man somberly told him.
"Bastard!" Robin muttered. He cringed as Slade bounced him on his knees, making the sting more prominent, but he felt himself harden against his will.
Damn, it has been too long since the last spanking. Robin's cheeks reddened further. That was a kink he wasn't too proud off, but it was still there.
"I think this calls for a green one!" Red smirked and pressed another shot-glass in Robin's hands. Robin drank half of it and offered the other half to Slade. The man was about to tell the boy that the drinks were actually quite strong, but the mischievous look on Robin's face told him to let the boy learn that the hard way. With a smirk he allowed Robin to pour the drink into his mouth.
They enjoyed the entertainment for a while, Robin again sitting between Slade and Speedy, but maybe rubbing up against Slade just a bit too noticeably. In Robin's mind however, he was being very discreet about the whole thing. There were more drinks in various colors, sometimes several colors, and Robin idly wanted to find out how that was done. They tasted nice, though.
Soon, however, the clinking of two glasses was heard, and Robin turned his attention to Red, who, for some reason, was banging them together.
"It's time to make a speech!" the thief happily declared. "Dear friends! We are gathered here tod-" he was interrupted by a kick on the ankle and a laugh from Speedy.
"Oh, shut up, you ain't marrying them!"
"What, let's see you try!" Red muttered and pouted, his lower lip instantly being kissed by his boyfriend as an apology.
"Well, what my dear delinquent here tried to tell you, we are both very happy for you, but he have to make sure that everything is in order, so we will have to question you."
Robin snickered
"What?"
"Well, since a little bird told me that Slade has been married before, and Robin's previous experiences were probably… errr.. limited, we are just making sure everyone gets what they want…" Red said, the smirk and glance in Speedy's direction was not lost on Robin, however.
"We got the questions from a game, they are almost scientific!" Speedy argued and wielded a stack of blue and pink cards, before handing Red some. "They will make you get to know each other better!"
Robin snorted, doubting that was possible, but then he merely grinned, leaning back against Slade.
"Well, then… shoot."
"Firstly, Slade: Robin and you are arguing. What, from your experience, is the most important thing to do in that situation?" Speedy read.
"To make sure your spouse doesn't have a gun…" Slade smirked and pointed to his eye-patch.
"Errr.. wasn't an option… you don't wanna change that to 'not go to bed angry' or something?"
"No. Gun. Definitely more important." Slade said, stone-faced, and Robin suppressed his laughter.
"All right." Red sighed, "Robin. Your husband comes home from work and seems irritable. What do you do?"
"I'll make sure he's not getting blood anywhere and then I'll let him fuck me on the closest table."
"Ah, sweetheart… that's so domestic of you…" Slade purred and drew Robin closer, kissing the top of his head.
"Yeah… minding bloodstains… right…." Red muttered and crumpled the card in his hand.
"What? Sarah is scary as hell when she finds a tough stain like that!" Robin objected. "Remember the white sofa?" he asked Slade, craning his head back to look at him.
The large man could barely hide a shiver.
"That I do."
"Okay, just for fun, Robin, what would you do if your husband came home from work in a good mood?" Speedy asked, curiously.
"I'll make sure he's not getting blood anywhere and then I'll let him fuck me on the closest table." Robin grinned evilly.
"I don't think this game was invented for these two…" Red muttered, flipping through his stacks of cards.
"All right, screw it." Speedy said, and threw the cards away. "Let's ask our own questions… now… Robin… ever done it with anyone but Slade?"
Robin choked slightly on a deep red shot and shook his head, blushing.
"How many people have you kissed, then?" Red asked, leaning closer and grinning.
"Ermm… three…" Robin said squirming uncomfortably. "Starfire, Slade and… Speedy."
"What?" Red looked slightly taken back.
"Yeah, don't you remember? I tried to 'out' him…" Speedy grinned. "I didn't know he was already as out as he could get, without falling over the edge on the other side."
"Oh, yeah, right… soooo… who's the best, then?"
"Slade of course!" Robin spluttered.
"Course you're gonna say Slade!" Red snorted, while Speedy looked slightly miffed. "I say we'll put it to a test, right now!"
"Excuse me?" Robin and Slade managed to say at the same time.
"Woooooohhh… scary twin-thing! Drinks all around!" Red grinned, handing them out.
"You are just trying to get me sch…shlosch…drunk, so I'll agree to that stupid test!" Robin complained, happily downing a purple concoction.
"Nah, you are too scared to do it anyway…" Speedy smirked.
"Am not!" Robin objected, not even noticing the trap falling shut.
"Sure you are! Slade still shaves after his little appearance as Dominic, and you just know you won't be able to tell! Afraid to get spanked again?"
Robin glanced up at his lover once more, though he knew it was true. Rather than having a new itchy beard on their honeymoon, Slade had opted to keep shaving until they got home again.
"Doesn't matter! I can still do it!" Robin assured them all. "Can't I?" he asked Slade just a bit too loudly for a whisper.
"Of course you can." Slade said, and found himself stuck in the trap as well.
"Let's see, then…" Speedy smirked evilly and whipped one of the blindfolds from his pocket. Robin only muttered sourly as it was put on. "Hands behind your back, only lips and tongue touching… Slade, come over here…"
They all moved away from Robin and got very quiet. Suddenly he felt lips pressing against his, nibbling, coaxing them open. The lips disappeared just as quickly as they had appeared and then another set took their place. Robin panicked slightly now, as he discovered that the taste of the drinks completely disguised any natural tastes… who had had a blueberry-shot? This kisser was more aggressive, more to Robin's liking, and left him panting. Then, the teasing, nibbling was back, and Robin frowned.
"You are cheating!"
The kisser withdrew and there was a smothered giggling sound.
"Well, with two out of three of us criminals, what do you expect?" Speedy laughed.
"Shut up and do it for real this time!" Robin snorted, and crossed his arms.
"No-no-no… hands behind your back!" he heard Red tut, and Robin sighed as he obeyed.
This time the kissing was almost brutal, each and every time, and Robin was pushed back against the pillows. He recognized Speedy's kiss now, and as soon as Slade's lips were on his he immediately knew, desire flooding his systems. Robin smirked against the man's mouth and bit his lower lip gently.
His head was gently turned and he was being kissed yet again. This time it was Red X, and Robin almost moaned, as the skillfully limber tongue danced with his.
No wonder Speedy couldn't resist this… he thought wryly to himself.
"There… care to tell us?" Red X asked, sounding a bit out of breath. Robin guessed he wasn't such a bad kisser himself.
"Naaahhhh… I think I need a few more tries…" Robin grinned lazily.
"You already know, don't you?" Speedy said, sounding amused and just somewhat turned on.
"Sure I do…" Robin said. "But it's still the question about who's the best, right?"
That statement really triggered some competitive instincts, and Robin soon felt lips not just on his own, but also on his neck and shoulders. Nimble fingers were sliding up his shirt as well, and he soon found himself reduced to a moaning pile of trembling flesh.
The blindfold was pulled slightly askew, and Robin managed to glare weakly at his molesters.
"You're all perverts…" he grunted.
"And you are so happy about that right now…" Red grinned and Robin felt a light hand over his crotch.
"Hey! Stay over the belt!" he said, drawing Slade closer. "Only this guy has full access!"
"Should I take that as an invitation?" Slade purred, and Robin could hear how pleased the man had been by his words.
"We are in public!" Robin hissed.
"And I do have a certain card…" Slade said smugly.
"You don't mean-"
"We'll see…" the man growled and smirking, continued to kiss his soon-to-be-husband.
"Sho-shouldn't we wait until after the w-wedding?" Robin squealed, trying to fight his inner voice that just wanted to shout at Slade to take him.
Slade laughed darkly, joined by two other snickers.
"Nah, just spread 'em, bird-boy…" Red grinned.
Robin startled and looked to the side. He had managed to completely forget the other two occupants of the booth for a few moments. What he now saw made him gasp loudly. The red-heads had abandoned him to devote some time to each other, and they were both naked from the waist up. Speedy was sitting up, leaning back on his hands, while Red was straddling him, kissing, licking and, apparently, biting, his chest and nipples. Robin, who was still pressed back against the pillows, now being held down by Slade's weight, pressed up against the man.
"Let me up… I gotta see this…" he whispered in his slightly-drunk-and-not-so-quiet way.
Red grinned and winked down at Speedy.
"What do you say, brother… ready to give mum and dad a show?"
The very disturbing sentence only made Speedy crack a huge grin of his own, because he, even if he would never admit it, had the same gutter-brain as his lover.
"Yeah, let's show the old folks how it's done…"
Slade rolled off him, and Robin followed the movement until they ended up much like Speedy and Red. Slade's hands were removing Robin's shirt all the way, and Robin desperately tried to unbutton Slade's shirt without looking, since his eyes were glued on the other couple.
"I would appreciate some attention." the man said dryly, but Robin merely caught his jaw and turned his head. Slade then understood what had grabbed his young lover's interest.
Red stood on his knees, while Speedy was on his stomach facing him, grabbing the other boy's fly in his teeth, pulling the zipper down.
"Ahhh… baby… you're not wearing underwear!" he said, delighted, as Red's pride and joy suddenly bounced free, very happy to meet everyone. Speedy couldn't help but give the tip a quick lick.
"Wouldn't want to prolong anything…" Red smirked, and pulled the archer up for a kiss. Speedy peeled Red's tight jeans down the rest of the way, as Red hooked his thumbs into his boyfriend's loose cargo pants and simply pushed them down over his hips. A split second later, it seemed to Robin, shoes were quickly kicked off , along with socks, and they were both completely naked, almost wound around each other in their usual fashion. They both grinned up at him and Slade, Speedy arching a brow.
"We want a show too, please…?"
Robin purred and rubbed against the man under him, the growing bulge just in the right place… if it hadn't been for the little annoying detail of clothes in the way. He leaned down, kissing the man's lips savagely, and then started working his way down. His hands roamed over the man's chest and arms, suddenly joined by a third. Robin looked up in surprise, seeing Red grin, as he caressed Slade's arm.
"Sorry… just curious…"
"Hands off, thief! He's mine!" Robin snarled, half as a joke and half serious.
Slade chuckled, quite enjoying himself, as he rested back against the pillows. It was Robin's show, for now, and he was curious about how far his little bird would take things.
Robin scooted down, slowly undoing Slade's trousers and pulling the zipper down. He knew the man wore black, tight boxers, as he had watched him get dressed this morning, so he moved all the way down to the man's feet, pulled his shoes and socks off and then quickly, let the trousers follow suit. He crawled up again, grinning at Slade wickedly, and then glancing over at the boys.
"I know you guys has seen it before, but you haven't seen it hard… wanna have a look at what we grown ups play with?"
"Fuck, yes…" Red breathed, eyes stuck to the very prominent tent Slade's boxers had been made into.
Robin, slowly, pulled down the underwear, delighted as he heard a collective gasp from the red-heads.
"Damn… sure he isn't a centaur? You know… with only one part horse?" Speedy whispered.
Two pair of hands eased forward, but Robin slapped them away.
"No-no-no… play with your own…" he smirked, while slowly caressing the hot shaft. He felt strangely proud that others found Slade attractive and… well… impressive. As they first had started what could barely have been described as a relationship at the time, Robin had only had a slim idea what a grown man's cock looked like, and had suspected that Slade was big, something he had had confirmed when, much later, they occasionally watched adult films together, but, nevertheless, it was nice when ones friends liked ones things, wasn't it?
Locking eyes with Slade, and then with his spectators, Robin languorously licked the shaft from root to top.
Robin was vaguely aware that the booze probably had something to do with his behavior, but he didn't feel drunk. Slightly buzzed perhaps, but not drunk. Just very, very horny… and eager to put on a good show. His tongue licked the swollen head, while his hand snuck between Slade's thighs to play with his balls. Slowly he let his mouth close around the tip and then he started to move his head up and down, swallowing only just a bit more than the tip at first, and then going lower and lower.
"…you're kidding me…" came a hoarse whisper from either Red or Speedy, Robin wasn't sure. He smirked around the shaft and glanced up at them again. The teens were rather wide-eyed, stroking each other as they watched.
"He's deep-throating… that?!" Speedy sounded like he thought it was all a trick.
"Robin… is very talented…" Slade agreed, his voice thick with restrained desire.
Robin chuckled and purred around the shaft, making Slade's hips buck. The man was definitely not all in control, and Robin loved it. He let the cock go and felt Slade twist impatiently beneath him. Nope. Almost no control at all.
"I want to see you two in a sixty-nine…" he leered at the redheads and they, as soon as they had snapped out of it, leered back and got in position.
Robin, in the mean while, pulled Slade's underwear all the way off and tossed it over his shoulder. He didn't really care were it landed.
"Come here…" Slade took a hold of him and pulled him upwards until he could reach Robin's jeans-clad butt. He made the process short, pulling them off him, and Robin kicked them all the way off together with his sneakers.
"Mmm… I like that…" Robin heard Red purr. "Roy, love, how about we gang up on Slade and fight him for Robin?"
"Alex, baby, we wouldn't last five minutes." Speedy tutted.
"Might be good five minutes, though?" Red tried.
"Oh, go back to what you were- ahh!" Robin was cut off as he was flipped onto his back. As a wet heat engulfed his cock, Robin really appreciated the way his future husband repaid a favor. He had rolled very close to the others however, and again felt hands on his chest, this time pinching his nipples. Robin opened his eyes and startled as he saw the grinning face of Speedy closing in.
"See… Slade is willing to share you… don't be so egotistical…" the archer smirked.
"Only above the waist…" Slade growled warningly, sending shivers all along Robin's spine.
"Oh, we can have a lot of fun at this end too…" Robin heard Red chuckle and he then realized that the boy's crotch was very, very close. Speedy's mouth descended on it and sucked at the weeping head just a hairsbreadth from Robin's face. The archer then let it go and leaned down further, kissing Robin deeply, the taste of them both mixing in Robin's mouth. The former titan had an urge to raise his head and taste that forbidden fruit for himself, but right then he moaned, arching, as he felt Slade's fingers grace his entrance, and then turned away from Speedy to get his lovers attention.
"No prep…just… lube…"
"You sure?" Slade wanted to know.
"Yeeesss…" Robin hissed. "Want it… tight… wanna… ride you…" Robin took a deep breath. "Let me and you don't have to use the card…" he said eagerly.
Slade, already having the lubrication ready, pulled his horny lover away from his playmates and made him straddle his stomach.
Red and Speedy moved into a similar position with Speedy on top, and Robin watched in fascination as his friend sank down on his boyfriends cock.
"God… need you now…" he whispered to Slade.
"Ready?"
"Yes, damnit!" Robin snarled, and got a chuckle as a reply. Slade lifted his hips, helping him get in position, and then let go. Robin cried out in pleasure as he was impaled, sinking down quickly to the root.
"Damn, you gotta be able to taste it…" Red grinned, and then groaned as his lover started riding him. Robin moved too, his hands planted firmly on Slade's hips. He couldn't lift himself very far, but it was enough to feel the swollen, pulsing cock grind against his prostate and inner walls, making him feel like he was in the middle of one very long, slow orgasm.
Speedy leaned over towards him, catching his lips with his, while still moving on top of Red, and kissed Robin passionately. Robin moved even faster, now helped by Slade's hands, as the man lifted and let go of his hips over and over again. As the man's hand wrapped around Robin's shaft, the boy couldn't hold back any longer and cried out his release in Speedy's mouth. Speedy and Red joined him moments after, and then Robin again found himself on his back, Slade pounding into him harder than ever. Robin lifted his hips to give the man a better angle, and every thrust against his prostate seemed to just prolong his own orgasm, until he felt his hot seed splatter once more over his own chest and belly. This time Slade joined him, with a last couple of powerful thrusts, before slowing down. He moved to the side, taking Robin with him, and, still lodged deeply inside his lover, he settled down.
Robin loved the feeling of the still semi-hard cock inside him and he pushed back, making sure it stayed there. He was badly out of breath, though, and when he turned his head to see what the other pair was up to, he found them in pretty much the same state.
"Oh, we gotta play with mum and dad again!" Red panted blissfully.
Robin and Slade chuckled. Robin noticed that there was a fresh tray of drinks waiting for them, and casually wondered when that had happened. The two couples stayed until closing-time, enjoying the shows both on stage and from each other, and testing a few more colorful drinks.
Robin cracked his eyes open around ten the next morning and wished he hadn't. He groaned, but was then cradled in two strong arms, lifting him up. Robin smiled. He loved Slade. The man always knew what made him feel g-
Robin suddenly felt himself being dropped, and screamed as he was engulfed in very cold water.
"Slade, what the fuck!" he cried, fighting frantically to get out of the tub.
"Well, it woke you up." Slade said smugly.
"I can't believe I'm thinking of marrying you… I think I'll be better off with Red and Speedy…" Robin growled, cradling his head.
"Really? You have been out for hours. Have you any idea what those two might have done to you in that time...?"
Robin's eyes widened and he shuddered slightly.
"Okay, I'll settle for you, then…" he decided.
The plane ride was a nightmare, and Robin had no idea how the others could be so damn chipper. Well. Slade was never exactly 'chipper' but he acted like all he had drunk last night was water, and that he had gotten to bed at an appropriate hour. When Robin thought about last night in general, his face started glowing, something the red-heads quickly picked up on. He then got a scene-for-scene review of the whole night, even the parts his mind had mercifully let him forget. In the end he had been forced to flee to the plane's bedroom, and there, burrowed under the sheets, he finally got some more sleep.
It was rather late in the evening when they finally arrived, and they only had a light dinner together before Red and Speedy were shown to their room. Red had started drooling in the entrance hall and was severely warned not to steal anything.
Robin dragged himself to the main bedroom and collapsed on the bed. Even after the extra hours of sleep on the plane, he was still dead on his feet. He suspected sleep on planes somehow didn't count as much as sleep on the ground… he wondered if it was the air pressure or something.
"Tired, are we?" Slade asked above him, and Robin moaned miserably.
"Yes, we are…." Robin muttered. "I'll never drink again!"
"No? You were quite entertaining…" the man chuckled.
"Well, maybe only the green ones… I liked those… and the blue… and the yellow…"
"I hear I have to watch you from now on…"
Robin chuckled tiredly and rolled over on his back.
"Undress me, I'm too tired…"
Slade chuckled again, but did as the teen asked, tucking him in as well, before getting ready for bed as well.
When Robin felt Slade's arms around him, he sighed in tired bliss. Suddenly something occurred to him. They were getting married tomorrow!
"So… about tomorrow… what's going to happen?" he asked.
"I have no idea." Slade smirked.
"What?" Robin almost sat up in confusion.
"Calm down. Sure I do… we have been talking about what we both want and don't want…. trust me…" The plans had been ready by the end of last year, but, because of 'the incident' everything had been put on hold.
"I do…" Robin nodded, nuzzling in closer to the man. "So no religious drivel?"
"Very little, I should think…" Slade grinned.
"But nothing too boring, right? I would rather have demented priests doing weird stuff than just a judge telling us we are married…" Robin mused.
"Oh, it will be weird enough for your liking…" Slade assured him.
"And no vows? No icky-sweet stuff?"
"No… no little flower girls or pretty white dresses…" Slade chuckled in his ear. "I did bring a black leather mini-skirt though…"
"Nah, you don't have the legs for it…" Robin snickered.
"Brat."
"Old man."
They both smiled, laying there quietly for a moment until Robin snickered again. "If I had known, back then, about Red and Speedy, I think I would have rethought a few things… I would have loved them dressed up as bride's maids…"
Slade chuckled.
"They have had it a bit too easy, haven't they? If you want…?"
Robin giggled.
"Nah, they will only get back at me, and I really don't want to worry about that on our honeymoon…"
"I agree…" Slade nodded against his neck, kissing it gently. "I just want to focus my complete attention on you."
"And why does that scare me?" Robin grinned.
"You'll see…" Slade growled, making his lover shiver.
Robin fell asleep shortly after and awoke at sunrise. Slade was gone, to his annoyance, but there was a note on his pillow.
'Someone will come for you. Do as they say. I will see you tonight. /S'
Robin grinned, feeling a bit of excitement over the words, and he was just about to get up to take a shower when there was a knock on the door. It opened immediately, and four young women came into the room in a hurry. First Robin thought they were girls, but as he looked closer he noticed that they were merely rather short and slender, and actually older than he was. Robin blinked in confusion, covering himself with a blanket. He knew every servant in the staff by name, and he had never seen these four before. They looked, with their dark skin and long black hair, like the natives of the group of islands this particular isle belonged to, but he still didn't understand what they were doing here. He soon would, however.
"You must come with us!" one of the girls said, in a choppy kind of English, trying to stop from giggling, whereas the other three girls didn't even try.
"Errr… why?" Robin asked, definitely not feeling threatened, Slade had, after all, said someone would show up, but he was slightly… confused.
"We collect the bride. Is tradition." the girls answered, and now folded her arms, looking a bit sterner.
"Er… 'bride'… right…." Robin muttered. "Well, I got to take a shower and get dressed, would you…?"
"No. You wear this! We take care!" the girl said, and produced something that looked like a sheet. After dragging him to his feet, the giggling rising as his covers fell away, he was dressed in the cloth that wound up looking like something of a cross between a simple sari and toga. He was then, accompanied by even more giggling, drawn away from the bedroom, out of the house and into the patch of rainforest that came down almost to the very back or the house. Robin had explored these parts with Slade, but couldn't for the life of him think of any reason he would be dragged out here. As they, after an extended walk, entered a clearing, he saw screens of braided palm-leaves that had been erected around a steaming wooden tub of water. In the middle of the clearing was a small lake and a waterfall, and Robin found the he remembered this place very well. It was actually one of his and Slade's favorite spots on the island, and he looked around for the man. Slade was nowhere in sight, though, and Robin didn't think he would be, either. He was probably busy with his own squadron of giggling girls.
Wait… that wasn't a nice thought…! The thought of Slade with the male equivalents, though, wasn't much better, and Robin determinedly pushed the images out of his head.
Suddenly his garment was removed and Robin gulped as the women around him shed their own as well. He was now completely naked, and the girls were only wearing what looked like simple loincloths. Robin didn't know quite where to look, and was wildly wondering what was going on. The girls giggled even harder, and pushed him towards the large tub. Something finally clicked in Robin's mind and he relaxed. He was merely getting to take a bath! The fact that the girls joined him, however, was not expected. He was standing, with the young women surrounding him, thigh deep in hot water, and flinched as he felt a wet cloth on his back.
"Erm… I … I can wash myself…" he said, uncertainly, not wanting to upset his company.
"No. Tradition." The only one who seemed to know any English, or at least had the nerve to talk, explained.
"Oh… could you… could you tell me more about this tradition?"
"The sisters of the bride will… make clean the bride, so she go to husband pure." the young woman said after some thought.
"Oh… " Robin said again. "So… you are my sisters?" he grinned, feeling a bit better.
"Yes. Today. Honor!" the woman said and smiled back at him.
Robin's smile widened and became warmer.
"Thank you. I've never had sisters…"
One of the others said a few words in language Robin didn't understand, and there were explosions of giggles once more.
"And what, pray tell, did my other sister just say?" Robin smirked.
"She said… she said… she never had sisters with your… parts…"
Robin managed to laugh, quickly interrupted when a cloth swiped over said parts.
"I really could clean there myse-" Robin tried to insist.
"No! Sister being bad. Must be good. We take care."
And they did. Robin didn't think he had ever been so intimately cleaned even by himself. He was, after a while, allowed to sit down in the tub while his newly found family continued to clean his legs, arms, hands and feet. Even his nails were cleaned thoroughly, all twenty of them. He was then taken to the pond, and made to stand in the waterfall until he started shivering and was sure he was turning blue. He was then allowed up to lay on a big blanket in the sun. He noted that the tub was being emptied through an outlet in the bottom, and, after being cleaned by one of the girls, it was slowly being refilled with hot water from a hose. Robin grinned, seeing this.
Cheaters… he thought dryly, but felt better knowing that someone hadn't had to lug water in buckets all the way up here.
He idly wondered why the tub was being refilled, though, since he now was clean. That was when a pile of mud hit him in the chest.
"Wha-?" The mug was warm, almost hot, and definitely organic. "But I… why?" He asked, as four pair of hands started to rub it into his skin, adding more the whole time.
"Before, blessing from water… now blessing from earth." came the explanation. Another strange substance was now covering his face as well, feeling weird but pleasantly cooling on his skin.
After the clay had dried until he felt like he was turning to stone, he was again pushed towards the pond. This time he was cleaned once more, but only three girls helped, as the forth was busy crushing some plants in a big bowl, creating some sort of bubbles as water was added. He was lead out of the cold water, hearing another question and a set of giggles. Turning to his translator he arched a brow.
"Mina only ask if all men get smaller in water?"
"If it's this damn cold, yeah…" Robin muttered, earning himself more laughs.
The strange frothy mix was now applied to his skin, from his feet up to his nose, and, though it smelled very nicely of mint, Robin had no idea what to expect until he felt a strange scraping sensation up his legs.
"What?" He looked down and froze in fear. The girls were now holding what looked like very sharp stone knives. "Wha-what are you-?" Robin asked, afraid to move.
"To be clean, all hair gone!" his sister said, and Robin paled.
"What…? All hair?"
"Yes. Not head. All over body."
The others had calmly continued to run their knives up his legs and thighs, and Robin expected to see blood well up from deep cuts at any moment. None came, however.
"No scared." The girl reassured him. "We good! Now very still… we not do this part before…"
Robin gulped and closed his eyes.
"Good. Now… move…" he was ordered. He felt his knees being pushed and winced, obediently standing with his feet wider apart. He offered up a little prayer to any god that might be listening, and wasn't busy laughing at him, but the immense pain he expected to feel at any moment never came. They finished his stomach, chest, arms and back, before Robin once more had to hold his breath as they shaved his face and neck. He had been so proud of the few hints of stubble that had started to come in, but he guessed that it would grow back… this was tradition, after all. After another dip in the pond he was finally allowed to sink into the hot tub again, and he sighed in relief. His sisters joined him, but only sat there relaxing with him.
"Well…?" Robin asked. "Is it over?"
"You are clean." the young woman nodded and he thanked his lucky stars. "Now we tell you how to make love to your husband!"
It turned out his sisters had been selected because they could offer the young bride the knowledge she, traditionally, needed before facing her wedding and wedding night. Only one of them, Mina, was not yet married, but had been selected for her skill with herbs. Robin's translator turned out to be just over twenty with two children of her own. The next in line had recently become a mother a few months ago, and the third was expecting. They told Robin all the things, in detail, as it was customary to tell the bride, disregarding the fact that he was male completely. If Robin had felt awkward before, this was pure torture. He found, however, that as time passed, he relaxed more, and soon they were all laughing. His sisters even dared to ask some innocent questions about his relationship with Slade, which Robin took great delight in, as it, finally, made them blush and squirm just as much as he had.
All in all, the 'cleansing' had taken several hours, and it was now way passed lunch. Robin found himself starving, especially since he hadn't even had breakfast yet. The bowls of fruit and water that were presented after they got out of the tub was therefore very welcome.
They sat, comfortably drying and warming in the sun while they ate.
"So, this is it? We're going back now?" Robin asked.
"No. Still more blessings." his sister told him. "The winds are next."
"What, you're going to blow me?" Robin muttered, slapping a hand across his mouth as he, to his horror, discovered that he had said it out loud. To his immense relief he only got blank, questioning looks in return. "I… err… bad joke…" he mumbled. "Very bad… sorry…"
The girls shrugged and smiled, a moment later presenting Robin with a joke of their own.
"You're joking." Robin therefore said, having identified the thing he was holding as such.
"No. Tradition."
"Yes, I'm sure, and I'm all for tradition, but… really?"
"We show."
A few minutes later, Robin was clad again, although 'clad' was stretching the word until it screamed. He was, more correctly, barely covered, by a soft, richly decorated, leather loincloth, riding very low on his hips.
"Tradition bride clothes." His eldest sister said smugly.
"Yeah, well, girls have fewer parts to cover!" Robin complained.
"Is good. Sister look pretty." was his only reply.
Robin sighed. Well… Slade was certainly getting an eyeful before their wedding night, that's for sure. Not that the man didn't know every part of his body already… Robin also suddenly understood why the shaving made sense. He just wished it hadn't been quite that… complete.
"And now..?" he asked wearily.
"Now your mothers come."
Robin's heart suddenly ached. He had never had sisters, but he had had a mother, and, even though he didn't know if she would still be in his life if she had still lived, considering the choices he had made, he still missed her terribly at times like these.
As on cue four older women appeared. The youngest were around forty-five and the oldest… well… she could have been about one hundred, Robin had no idea. She seemed to be mainly made up by wrinkles and a huge smile. He smiled back, quietly nudging his translator.
"This many mothers?"
"Oh. They mothers… and mother's mothers. You understand?"
Robin nodded, yes, he understood.
The women took him further towards the middle of the island, and made him climb a large rock formation. How the elderly ones made it up Robin didn't know, but they all seemed to be part capricorns. Finally, he was standing at the top, looking out over the island, and, although he was very used to heights, feeling a little dizzy. The women joined him, surrounding him, and started unpacking several small clay jars and paintbrushes. Slowly, painstakingly, they started covering his body with lines and dots, creating strange, swirling patterns in red and black, which, presumingly, meant something. They spoke even less English than the younger women had, but, as one of them started painting his stomach, she pointed to the lines and smiled.
"For many babies."
Robin laughed and shrugged, indicating that she might as well try. They worked for over an hour, as far as Robin could tell, and by now the sun was nearing the horizon. They talked and laughed among themselves and now and then offered him new advice about his impending marriage.
"Now, blessing." One of them finally said, and they all stepped back as they started singing a strange chant in low voices.
Robin knew it was only a coincidence, but the wind, which had been present the whole time, he tried to remind himself, suddenly seemed to pick up. It came from every direction, swirling around him like it was caressing him, and Robin had to swallow hard as he realized that he really felt blessed. He closed his eyes for a moment, fighting the burning in them, and then he felt hands on his own, guiding him down.
He was presented with another small meal, and then they started a slow walk back. It was dusk by the time Robin saw the house again, but he wasn't lead there, but towards the beach. His new 'sisters' met him there, but there weren't so many giggles now, they seemed almost nervous.
They were standing in front of another set of huge palm-leaf screens, and Robin shifted his feet in the sand which was still rather hot from the sun.
"It is time to meet the fathers." his sister explained, and, around the screen, walked four men, in ages seemingly matching his 'mothers'.
A man in his late fifties stepped forward and smiled.
"Dear daughter…"
Robin coughed a bit, but then grinned sheepishly. The man's eyes glittered with humor, and Robin immediately liked him.
"Marriage is a long journey. A trial." the man continued, and Robin noted that his English was a lot better than he had become used to. His detective skills picked up the faint traces of a wrist watch, and decided that this man was probably in business or politics when he wasn't on an exotic island playing the father to half-naked teenage boys. "Behold your path to your final blessing."
The screens were drawn apart and, on the other side, a long strip of burning coals were revealed.
"No way…" Robin whispered.
"You must both walk the fire." The man said sternly, and Robin looked up. The path led up to a large circle, where some shapes were standing, and from there, another lane of smoldering coal stretched out. On the other side of that… Robin squinted in the semi darkness, which was being lit up, he now noticed, by hundredths of torches, lining the coals and the ring in the middle, like a fiery fence. The figure standing there, his body painted with white symbols that looked vaguely like Robin's black and red, was definitely Slade.
His 'father' spoke once more.
"If you do not have the courage to face the fire, you do not have the courage to face marriage."
Robin swallowed and stepped up to the coals. He could feel the heat coming off them, there was no doubt that they were really hot.
"You did this?" he hissed at his 'sister' and he got a smile and a nod in return.
"You be brave, sister." she whispered back, and Robin sighed and rolled his eyes.
"I don't have much choice, do I? I really want that guy…"
His sisters giggled behind him and Robin straightened up. This was it. Time to get his feet burned off for love. Fuck.
"Begin."
The first step was the worst. Robin's mind kept telling himself that it was nothing to worry about. Lots of people had done this. It was an ancient custom across the globe. The ash worked as an insulator. He wasn't going to burn himself. Somehow, when he was actually walking, those were poor comforters indeed. As he stared straight ahead, he noted that Slade was coming closer as well, and smiled, walking a bit faster. As his feet hit the sand, which now seemed very cool indeed, there was a low, happy cheer from the spectators. Robin only had eyes for Slade, though. The man was clad like him, but in a larger loincloth, the male variety, Robin supposed. He had indeed been painted in similar symbols, although most of them seemed to point towards his groin, instead as, for Robin, concentrating on his chest and stomach.
"I thought I would never see you again…" Robin grinned.
"Yes, I usually dump my boyfriends by taking them to an exotic island and letting them be taken away by beautiful young women…" Slade smirked.
Robin laughed silently, but then three men appeared before them, and he gulped , looking in their direction. It was three of the most diverse men Robin had ever set eyes upon.
The first one took a step forward. He was probably in his seventies, and dressed and looked like one of the natives, which proved right.
"I am chief Namor. You have received the blessings of the spirits and are ready to begin your life together." the man smiled at them, and Robin saw the same sense of humor in his eyes as his 'fathers'. His English also seemed more or less perfect, even though the accent was quite pronounced "It is indeed a rarity to bind two men. Our costumes have no reference for this, and so I am afraid that you, young man, has taken the rites of the bride." there was a low snicker behind Robin's back, and his instantly decided that Red would have to pay for that. He was vaguely aware of the other people in the circle, but he couldn't make them out in the flickering firelight. "I hope you feel no resentment for this?" the chief continued.
Robin only smiled.
"No. I am honored to have learned about your traditions, and I have gained both mothers, sisters and fathers. I am very grateful."
The answer obviously pleased the old leader, and he smiled back.
"Though a life shared between two men or two women are not common, our teachings have nothing against such a union. I cannot bless your future children, however, unless you," the chief turned towards Slade, "take a female bride as well. My youngest daughter-"
He was interrupted by a slight cough from Slade, telling him to move on. Robin swallowed a giggle as the man shrugged.
"I hereby add my blessings to the spirits that have deemed you worthy. May your life always bring you favorable winds, pure water, a fertile soil and a warm fire."
The man stepped back, and Robin wondered if it was over, but now the second man stepped forward. This man seemed almost strange as he was clad in a regular suit. He wore rather large, wire-framed glasses and looked vaguely familiar to Robin with his graying, thinning hair and beard.
"My name is Rafael Garcia. In the name of this country, it is my honor to pronounce you, Richard Grayson, and you, Slade Wilson, husbands, as by the law I represent."
Robin gaped. Rafael Garcia! He was the bloody president of this country! He glanced up at Slade, vaguely impressed. He knew the man had been given this island by the government for certain 'services' but he had no idea that he could bully the president himself in making an appearance. Robin also had a distinct feeling that some laws had been altered to make this marriage legal. He remembered the vast amounts of paperwork that had been arranged, from full birth certificates to passports and even a statement signed and stamped by a solicitor, confirming they both were free to marry. That had been a weird day at work for that man.
The man stepped back. He had been brief, and maybe a bit uncomfortable, but he had nevertheless seemed genuine.
The third man stepped forward and Robin's eyes widened once more. He took in the wide hat, the very prominent moustache and the brightly colored scarf along with an equally bright suit.
"I am Emilian Hearne."
"You… you are Romani…?" Robin asked, feeling his voice shake slightly.
"Yes. I was asked to come, as you are a son of our people. We do, however, believe that a marriage should be about the continuation of the family."
Robin cut in here, quickly.
"I know. Please don't feel pressured into doing this. I am proud of my father's family and of my roots, and I wouldn't want to make you do something that is against your beliefs…" Robin grew quiet and looked down on the ground. His recent family had abandoned him, why not his father's as well? He didn't blame them; there was simply no room for him amongst them. It was still his choice.
"That answer alone proves to me that you have not turned your back on our customs, and would honor them gladly if not swept away by love. Love is, I believe, stronger than mere human rules and traditions. I will gladly give you both my blessing."
Robin looked up in surprise, happiness shining in his eyes.
"Thank you." he said, meaning it with all his heart.
"As I don't know your fathers family, I will wed you according to the customs in mine. Please come forwards."
Slade and Robin did, standing side by side.
The man made a gesture, and a young boy came into the light holding a platter containing a piece of bread and two silver knifes.
"Firstly I ask who will stand witness in this abiav. Who will stand for Slade Wilson?"
"I will." Wintergreen's voice rang out behind them. Robin smiled.
"And who will stand for Richard Grayson?"
"I will."
Robin gasped and whipped his head around. He had expected Speedy's voice, or maybe Reds, but…
"A-alfred?"
The old butler had taken a step forward, and now smiled at Robin. It had been so long, and he was so close, but Robin knew he had to wait just a little bit longer. For a moment, though, his world was spinning. The letter he had received at Christmas was a warm one, reassuring the boy that the old man still loved him like a grandson, but also stating that he had to stay with Bruce, the man he had watched grow up, and Robin knew he would never abandon him. Robin didn't want Alfred to leave his former mentor, the old man was all Bruce had left, and as time had gone by, Robin's resentment towards the billionaire had turned to pity. It was relieving, though, that Alfred still cared for him, but there hadn't been a hint about that if they were ever to meet again, something Robin had grieved.
"Please join us."
Alfred and Wintergreen did, and Emilian handed them a silver knife each.
"Give your witness your right hand." the man instructed them, and Robin complied, smiling widely up at Alfred as he did.
"Now, witnesses, to help bind this couple in blood, press the knife into the palm of the groom's hand."
Alfred had a little trouble with this, wincing more than Robin did as the blade made a shallow cut in the skin, making a few drops of blood pool in the middle.
"Slade, Richard. Take each a peace of bread, wet it with your blood and offer it to each other. You thereby give your lives and your wealth to your partner to hold until the day they die."
They both did as asked. Robin thought he would be disgusted by the taste of blood, but somehow, it was the taste of Slade, and he found himself only warmed by it. Not that he would start enjoying in too much… blood-play wasn't really his thing.
"Please join hands."
Robin and Slade did, and Emilian adjusted them so they, turned towards each other, were holding both of the other's hands, crossing at the wrist.
"You have hereby promised to be true to each other, and live together in peace. I join in the blessings of Chief Namor and President Garcia, and pronounce you married. And…" Robin saw the man wink, "since you both seem to want it, I can see no fault with this marriage being sealed with a kiss."
Robin laughed, all tension leaving him, and he was pulled up close to Slade for a long, heated kiss which only ended when Red and Speedy started hooting. Applause echoed around the beach, and Robin suddenly noticed that beyond the circle, their whole staff had gathered, happily cheering their bosses on.
First the people in the ring stepped forward to congratulate them, though. Wintergreen, Sarah, Speedy, Red and the three rather unusual ceremony administrators, and, of course, Alfred.
Robin hugged the man for a very, very long time.
"Are you trying to make me jealous?" Slade chuckled next to him, winding his arms around Robin from behind. Robin laughed and slowly let go.
"I'm so glad you are here, Al…" he said, a tear rolling down his cheek. "Does Bruce know?"
The butler, rather teary-eyed himself, shook his head.
"I am officially in England to see my family, as I usually do this time of year. I only left earlier than normal."
Robin nodded.
"It's for the best, I guess. I wouldn't want to come between you two."
"What Bruce did to you both…" Alfred shook his head sadly. "He was desperate, but even then…"
"It is over." Slade said firmly. "Tonight is a happy occasion; let's leave the past in the past."
Robin and Alfred both nodded, smiling.
Robin was soon swept away by well wishers, and to another part of the beach, were a whole side of beef, along fish and chickens, were roasting over open fires. There were potatoes and corn along with salads, fruit and bread, enough to satisfy even the hungriest guest. Robin stayed clear of the alcohol, though, only accepting a glass of Champaign from Slade, and then sticking to orange juice and water.
He found and thanked each and every person that had been involved that day, including his sisters and the rest of his temporary family. The president, who now had a small following including bodyguards and a wife, nodded, as his wife kissed both of Robin's cheeks in congratulation.
"You make a lovely couple…" she whispered and winked at him as they walked away. Robin grinned and winked back, having a very strong feeling that she might have been a driving force behind the curtain, making things happen legally.
Robin then found Emilian.
"Thank you for doing this. Is there anything I can do in return?" Robin asked.
"It is not customary to ask favors from the bride on the wedding day…" Emilian smiled.
"Well, this wasn't exactly a normal wedding…" Robin grinned back. "And who knows if we'll ever meet again?"
"Well, as we, the Romani, visit your great city, we find it difficult sometimes to find places to stay."
"Why?" Robin looked puzzled. "If you travel by caravans, we have large green areas, and if not, a hotel or building shouldn't be too hard to find."
"It is the prejudice, I fear, that closes the doors."
"Then consider them open. I will make sure, as soon as I return, that there will always be a place for my people in my city." Robin growled.
Smiling, Emilian bowed slightly.
"I see the temperament of a true Romani runs through you blood. And, as I am sure the honor also does, I will not doubt your promise."
"Don't." Robin said firmly. "But… talking about favours…?"
"Yes?"
"I know that it is almost impossible, but if I gave you the full name of my father and mother, the name of the circus they worked at, and what little I remember about what my father told me about his family… could you help me try to track them down?"
Emilian looked worried.
"As you say, it would be very difficult… but I will try. If I am successful, you will hear from me."
"Thank you." Robin said humbly. "I know it will be easier to search from the 'inside' sort of speak, than for me to try it alone. I only want to find out more about my heritage… lately, family has become… more important…"
"I understand. I will try my best." Emilian nodded solemnly.
The night continued with feasting, some traditional games of strength and daring, as well as some 'fun' games for the newly weds, like Red unexpectedly declaring that every time someone clinked a glass, the couple had to kiss. Suddenly everyone seemed to have a glass in their hand and a utensil to tap it with.
The feast never seemed to want to end, but at the stroke of midnight an impressive fireworks display lit up the sky.
"Happy New Year…" Slade whispered in Robin's ear. "Are you ready to take on the dire responsibilities of a wife?"
Robin chuckled.
"You have no idea…"
Robin and Slade excused themselves, and, to the sound of whistles, catcalls, and a lot of clinking, they withdrew from the crowd. Robin was surprised as Slade guided him, not to the house, but further along the beach. There was a small flat-bottomed boat waiting for them there, and Slade helped Robin inside.
"We're leaving the island?" Robin asked. "What if Red and Speedy sinks it?"
"They won't have time… I hope…" Slade grinned, but looked back worriedly for a second. "Besides, we re not going far…"
They drove for a while, rounding the island, Slade seemingly knowing where the reefs were even in the darkness. As they rounded an outcrop, Robin stared at the seemingly impossible sight before him. There, in the middle of the bay, was a house that seemed to float on the water. It was lit up with what looked like oil lanterns and it was a whole one-storage bungalow, complete with a thatched roof.
"Wow…" Robin said.
"I just wanted us to have a place were we could be completely alone…" Slade let him know. The man turned the motor off, secured the boat, and then scooted Robin up in his arms.
"Tradition…" he leered, and then jumped onto the porch and continued to carry the boy over the threshold.
The bungalow was amazing, but the best thing was that it had glass floors. Well, not glass, perhaps, rather a thick, clear plastic, but nevertheless, the bottom of the reef was clearly visible, several meters below. The house didn't float, Robin discovered, it was suspended on poles, carefully inserted into the bottom of the ocean as to not disturb the wildlife there. It was a good thing, though, because one thing Robin didn't want on his wedding night was to get seasick.
"What to join me for a swim?" Slade asked, gesturing to steps leading directly down into the warm, tropical water.
"Yes…" Robin then blushed a bit "But… the salt water?"
"There is a shower and a bathroom in the house, if you didn't notice, the water reservoir is large enough for several showers." Slade smiled, "Don't worry."
Robin smiled and took the man's hand, slowly descending down the steps and then swimming a few strokes out into the dark.
There was something almost magical about swimming in the sea at night. There was the slight danger, but also, Robin discovered, the beauty of the many fluorescent creatures on the reef. Between kisses they dove down, watching the wildlife in the lights from the house, rediscovering a world they hadn't seen in a rather long time. At last they left the water for a long shower, and then Robin discovered something fairly odd.
"Our markings haven't disappeared. They aren't even smudged!"
"No, they will keep a while. The paints they have used works like a henna tattoo… they have to be worn off."
"Oh, I think I can help with that…" Robin grinned, wrapping his arms around Slade's waist. "I'm not sure I can interpret all this symbols, but I'm pretty sure they all point me in this direction…" he said, letting his fingers play on the front of Slade's loin cloth. "Now… how to take this off…?"
They figured it out, even though the water had made the leather rather uncooperative.
As Slade had worked out the knots on Robin's coverings, he gasped in surprise.
Robin looked down, wondering what in the world the man had seen, and then smiled wickedly.
"Oh… they didn't shave you?" he asked innocently, although he had, naturally, already discovered this.
"No. Why in the world would they?"
"You didn't spend several hours in a hot tub, having a sex-talk with your 'brothers'?"
Slade looked up, puzzled.
"No. Apparently the customs for men and women differ. I spent most of the day in trials and varying degrees of pain."
Robin's eyes went wide.
"I think we have to compare notes."
"I insist on it. Tomorrow."
"I also think I'm glad to be considered a girl for once."
"I should think so to… they shaved your whole body?"
Slade took great pleasure in discovering Robin's new, smooth skin, and Robin really, really appreciated it. The sensations were new for him as well, and he barely recognized himself as his hands wondered down to play. They had only come as far as the bedroom door, still touching and kissing, until Robin glanced down.
"I think we better get on the bed…" he said.
"Oh?"
"Yeah, there's a lobster down there, and I think he's ogling us…"
They made love, slowly and exquisitely, until the first rays of the rising sun hit the bungalow. They then slowly drifted off to sleep, entwined in each other, knowing, that with blessings or without, they would always, always, be together.
The End
A/N:
There it was! I hope you liked it, because it was DAMN hard to write! I know some of you are all: no REAL four-some? But I didn't PROMISE you one, at least not this time, right? There might still be a real one… ;o) it was actually The Villian's Vindication who suggested that I might want to do a scene with them together but still in pairs… I couldn't help but cross the couple-line a LITTLE though, but not too much, I hope?Oh, to make a few things clear: the natives and their rituals were, naturally, completely made up, from a LOT of different influences. I thought Robin would appreciate the customs of the land he got married in, as long as it was also official… aaaaand I got to have a lot of fun with him, poor boy. The Romani ritual was partly made up, and partly fact. The blood and the bread thing is actually practiced in some Romani cultures, and sometimes it's bread and salt (I did a LOT o research, guys!) but the witnesses and what was said, was made up… Well, I had to get Alfred in there, you know?
I've have read so many really baaaaaad wedding ceremonies (the HP fandom) and I hope I haven't just added one of my own… I didn't want it sappy, but it should still be moving, 'cause, come on! It's a wedding! It has taken a LOT of time, and many sleepless nights (well… evenings, at least) to try to come up with SOMETHING that would suit this couple… they are hellishly hard to write for in that area, let me tell you!
Well, they are married now, and, if anyone wants, I have some ideas for some scenes for the honeymoon… Both from the newly weds- and the red-heads point of view… unless they sink the island… there is that…. ;o)
Happy New Year everybody, make strange New Years resolutions (mine is to start a new chaptered story within a month, AND try to start an original slash story on AFF as well during the year), don't get blown up by fireworks, and let me know what you thought!
Love you all!
/Wynja