[Chapter 11]
[Washington Hamilton - The Next Morning]
"Good morning, my love."
Solor slowly opened his eyes, looking around. He was a bit worried at first, since he didn't recognize his surroundings. But then his eyes fell on Kreinyol, and couldn't help but smile. Her radiant green eyes, the loving smile on her face, her beautifully disheveled hair, and finally, the mark on her neck reminded him of what happened. What looked to be a scar in the shape of a star resided at the base of her neck, where her collarbone began, and he couldn't help but smile. He traced his fingers over the mark, causing her to shiver.
"Good morning to you, too, Kreinyol", he said back to her. "I see you're still sensitive from the ritual?"
"Well, who is the one that did not tell me how many times we should go at it?" she teased. She lay down, pulling her new husband towards her. "In truth... last night... it was so magical. I never wanted it to end."
"As did I, my love", said Solor. He wrapped his arms around her waist. "Well... this is it. In my customs... we are married. I will admit... it feels better than I ever imagined it would." He smiled at Kreinyol. "Although, with you as my wife, I am certain that makes it all the more special."
She blushed, and couldn't help but bring her hands to her face. "Quiet, you. I am still recovering."
Solor smiled, and kissed her forehead. "Well, then you and I can recover for the day. We shall do whatever you wish, my love. Today, the war doesn't exist. It's just us."
Kreinyol smiled sadly. "I would love for us to just stay here, Husband Solor", she said. "But... as much as I would love to stay one more night, we are needed back in our homes tomorrow. We should head back."
Solor nodded. "If that is your wish." He got up, revealing his naked form as he stood from the bed. He was about to head for the washroom to get ready when her hand caught his, making him stop and turn to see a flirtatious smile on her face.
"I said we should leave", said Kreinyol, licking her lips. "I did not say when."
[Titan's Tower]
Robin was not happy.
While walking through the halls the night before, making a last patrol before heading for bed himself, he stopped when he heard Edward mention Starfire. And from what he could get out of Edward and Rachael's conversation, Starfire and Solor had finally chosen to be married, according to Solor's customs.
He knew it was going to happen at one point or another, but that didn't mean he had to like it.
He was in the gym, training himself, and taking out his own stress. He knew that it would be bad for the team if he acted upon his envy, so to bury his emotions, he fought against a punching bag for hours on end. It got to the point that Raven, who usually did not take interest in anything, stopped by the door. One look said it all; Robin was exhausted, and she decided it was time to stop him.
[Edward], she called through the shared link, as she figured he'd like to know. [I'm picking up a lot of anger and envy from Robin. I'm guessing it has to do with Starfire. Did you talk about her at all with Rachael?]
There was a pause, before he replied, [Well, a little. I spoke of how she was the one to pick up Solor's communicator, and how she suddenly hung up on me.]
[That would explain this, then], Raven thought, sighing. [I think our leader overheard you, because he's been in the gym for hours now. I don't think he's eaten anything, either.]
[Then that explains why he didn't show up for breakfast], Edward growled. [I'll come over and talk to him about this.]
[No, let me. I'm already here, I might as well should make an attempt before I sic you on him.]
[Alright, Raven. But be careful. He's in an emotional state, and probably won't react kindly to being told how to feel.]
[Empath, remember? I already know how this will end.] With that, Raven cut communications with Edward, and walked in. "What did the punching bag do, insult your hair style?"
Robin turned, shooting Raven a glare. "What do you want?"
"Your anger is staggering, Robin", said the empath. "You're completely worn out, but you keep attacking to eliminate the anger. And that keeps you moving and keeps you from resting."
Robin turned away. "How I deal with my stress is my business."
"Not when you have an empath on the team", Raven countered. With a wave of her hand, he was immediately held still, his entire body covered with a black aura. "I know you're mad about Starfire and Solor. But you knew this was going to happen, either before or after this war is over. Your anger is based on your lust for Solor's girlfriend, and you need to let it go."
"I'm perfectly in control of my emotions", said Robin. "I just... this is how I deal with stress. I need to train, to work."
"Training and working are only distractions, temporary things. My way is going to deal with those emotions head on", Raven said. "And you'll work with me if you want to walk away without any bodily harm, Robin."
Robin glared, but nodded. "Fine. Now, will you put me down?" After Raven set him down, he deactivated the punching bag, allowing it to retract into the ceiling. "So, what does this plan of yours involve?"
Raven merely folded her legs, floating in the air as she got into a meditative stance.
"No", Robin said after a pause. "I am not-"
"You will sit down, or I will make you sit down", Raven threatened. "Now, are you gonna do this the easy way, or the hard way?" After a moment, Robin sat down. "Now, I will teach you how to meditate. The only thing that you can do to help yourself is to listen to me. Understand?" He nodded. "Good. Then, find your center. Clear your mind of everything. And focus only on the situation. Focus on your emotions, your anger. And master it."
Robin nodded again, and closed his eyes. He began to meditate silently, thinking about everything that happened.
Meanwhile, unknown to the two teenagers, Edward had already made his way back to the gym, with Rachael in tow. The two were observing, mainly to see how Robin would react, and how Raven would handle the situation. So far, it didn't look like they were needed, but they were ready to step in if Raven couldn't handle the leader of the Teen Titans.
[Damn,] Edward said to his mate, [Robin is taking this really hard. He's really hurting, I think. He's so very much in love with her that I fear it may impact the team down the line unless Raven can get him passed this point because he will flip out if she comes back marked like he almost did to Vilea.]
[Welcome to the obsessive Robin era, dear,] Rachael said, [You're lucky that Nightwing's no longer as obsessive when it comes to folks like Slade. He's driven, yes, but, not obsessive. The situation with the Brotherhood of Evil helped in that respect. It forced him to look at more angles than his own viewpoint. He learned to balance what Batman taught him and what the team taught him. Robin tries to not let the romance between Starfire and Solor get to him, but, until he really deals with the emotions, he will jeopardize this team. You and I need to let Raven deal with this one. She's every bit my counterpart and I have the utmost faith in her.]
As time went on, Robin looked considerably calmer. But after only a few moments, he growled a bit, and slammed his hand against the ground. "What's the point of this?" he said, glaring. "This doesn't do anything. I'm just sitting here, thinking about Solor and Starfire, and it's not doing me any good."
"That's because you're not trying hard enough", said Raven. "You're supposed to be the sidekick of the greatest detective in America. Think about it without bias."
[Well played!] Edward cheered and motioned for Rachael to follow him out the door. If there would be a problem, Edward was sure Raven would contact him or Rachael, and more likely Rachael anyway. They went back to Ops and decided to watch the news, which, of course was wall to wall coverage of the fight over DC still.
Robin glared at Raven again, but soon sighed, and began meditating again. It was going to take some time, but it looked like the younger empath was getting through to her leader, albeit slowly and surely.
XxXxX
As Raven dealt with Robin, Beast Boy and Terra came into Ops, carrying many envelopes in their arms. "Mail call!" Beast Boy yelled out. "Pick up your fan letters, magazines, and anything else you ordered!"
Cyborg was the first to arrive, picking up his magazine and small stack of letters. "Just leave Robin and Raven's stuff outside of their rooms, BB", he said. "Robin got some bad news, and Raven's trying to help him out."
"What kind of bad news?" Terra asked curiously.
"The 'Girl He Loves is a Married Woman' kind", Cyborg said, smirking. "I was looking into why he barely spoke two words to any of us before starting his private training, and I ran into an interesting conversation. Sounds like Starfire and Solor finally hooked up."
"Dude, that's great!" Beast Boy said. He then made a face. "Wait. Not great. Now they're gonna be even more lovey dovey than they were before."
Terra smacked Beast Boy's shoulder, smirking. "Oh, and you didn't act at all lovey dovey when you and I first met." She smiled. "If they did hook up, then I'm happy for them. Smoke breath deserves a nice girl, especially after all the crap they've gone through recently." She picked up her magazine, then noticed a copy of National Enquirer had fallen from her stack.
And it flipped open to a page dedicated solely to the couple in question.
"Hey, what's this?" Terra asked, looking at it. She began reading silently. Slowly, her face turned red, and she began to close the paper. "U-uh, I think we have a problem."
Cyborg looked at what she was holding, and shrugged. "So, it's the National Enquirer. You know they're always making bogus stories about us."
"This one's a bit different", Terra replied, opening the page about it. "Read here."
Cyborg did so, and soon, he paled considerably. "H-How did they get that information?"
Beast Boy looked over Cyborg's shoulder, and soon looked disgusted. "Dude, five hours? I know those two have stamina, but that's just ridiculous!"
Cyborg glared. "BB, I don't think you quite understand the situation. Someone parked themselves outside of Solor's room, or snuck a tape recorder or whatever, and... and..."
"They were recorded having sex", Terra finished. "That's a major breech in not only the hotel security, but they were sticking their nose way into something they shouldn't have! That's scummy and sleazy and... Who in their right mind would try to get a picture of a dragon having sex?!"
Beast Boy finally understood, and looked even more disgusted. "Well... there goes my appetite for lunch. So what should we do? It's not like we can call the Enquirer and actually order them to recall all of the papers they published."
"Beast Boy's right", said Cyborg. "If we try anything, the Enquirer will just blow us off, or try to make a deal for a 'juicier' story. I'm more worried about what'll happen if Solor or Robin reads this!"
"If you think that's bad, wait until Edward - "
"Until I what?" asked Edward. The conversation had gotten real silent, so he had walked over to see what was going on.
"NOTHING!" all three teens declared, getting in the way of the magazine and trying to hide what it said to him.
Edward looked odd at his friends' counterparts and said, "OK, what gives you three?"
"Nothing, man!" Beast Boy said.
"Dude," Edward said, "You might be a good shapeshifter, but, a terrible liar. So, do yourselves a favor and just hand over whatever you are trying to hide that I can hear crinkling."
Terra was the bravest one and handed Edward the paper. As he read the article, the others decided to make a run for it.
"HOLD IT RIGHT THERE!" he roared.
They returned to see Edward is in a very foul mood.
"I am only gonna say this once," he said, "Do not say a word to Robin, Raven or your counterparts. I will deal with this. Lousy sons of bitches think they can invade Solor's privacy. Cyborg, you got a bug detector somewhere that I might borrow?"
"Of course, dawg. I'll get it," Cyborg said.
He calmed down and said, "Guys, I appreciate that you wanted to hide this from me. I'm not as mad at you as I would have been had I found out later – as in trying to stop Solor and Starfire from ripping you guys' heads off. As it is, they will be livid."
He took the paper and paced the floor wondering how he could break the news to his friends without them wanting to flatten the Enquirer's HQ in Boca Raton, Florida.
He decided to give them a heads-up that he was about to teleport over there.
"Edward calling Solor," he said when he opened the communicator only to see "Communicator offline".
He hit the priority call button and a few moments later, Solor appeared, "Edward, this had better be an emergency or so help me…"
"Trust me, brother, it is an emergency," Edward said, "We have a problem that I cannot state on an open channel. It's about the war."
"Fine," Solor said, "Give us a few moments."
"All right. I'll come in the normal way then," Edward said and signed off.
Cyborg went to get a high tech bug detector and showed Edward how to use it.
"Thanks, man," Edward said and headed out.
He went to the ground floor and after morphing, flew off before teleporting to the hotel.
After quickly being reminded which room they were in, Edward made his way up the elevator, down the hall, and eventually finding their room. He knocked a few times. "Solor? Kreinyol? It's Edward."
After a moment, Solor opened the door, revealing himself in his human form. "Hello, Brother", he said, smiling. He allowed Edward in, noting that he wasn't in the best mood. "What is wrong?"
"Well... best way I can put it is that your 'marriage' isn't exactly secret", said Edward.
Solor had the decency to blush. "W-well, it's not our fault that the door isn't thick enough to hold back the sound!"
Kreinyol came out of the washroom, wearing her tourist clothes. "Is everything alright?" she asked. Edward could clearly see the mark on the left side of her neck.
"Well, I wish I was here congratulating you guys", said Edward. "However, we got some bad news. Apparently, someone took a very personal interest in what you were doing last night, and managed to either record your... 'marriage' through the door..."
"... or by planting a recording device on us", Solor realized. "How do you know about this?"
Edward's response was to hand him a copy of the National Enquirer. As Solor read, his expression remained unchanged. However, his grip on the paper got tighter.
After a few minutes, he folded the paper neatly and gave it to Kreinyol, who in turn read it as well. She blushed profusely at first, but soon, curiosity got the better of her as she read it. "Wait... we started at seven?"
Solor nodded. "Sounds about right... the ceremony did last a while. Not as long as some dragons back in Lair, though. A couple that has held back from mating for years, waiting for the blessing of the Circle, sometimes take at least twenty-four hours."
"And you know this how?" Edward asked, almost regretting asking.
"It's kinda hard to miss when you live in a large mountainous area, where you can hear every sound echo for miles", Solor deadpanned. He shook his head. "I do not understand, though. How does this regard to the war?"
Edward sighed. "Because if humans are able to slip a trace or electronic bug onto you guys with barely any trouble at all, we have no idea how many Dark Dragons are watching you guys by doing the same thing, and I have to assume that some of them know how to read." He pulled out the bug tracker, and began sweeping the room. Finally, after a minute or so, he found the tiny microphone pinned to Kreinyol's purple dress that she wore the day before. "Bingo. Found the sucker."
Solor walked over, looking at the microphone. "It's amazing what technology can do. I always imagined recording devices to be big and bulky... not something that you'd never noticed pinned to a jacket." He took a hold of the microphone...
... and smashed it in his claw.
Edward looked at Solor, confused. "You're taking this real well."
"Well... in my customs most of my kind will know when a couple has performed the ceremony the night it happens. So it is not like it was really a breach in security. What this human did was appalling and shady, had he chosen other targets."
Kreinyol nodded, "But in all honesty, after last night... I do not mind if the whole world knows. I am bound to Husband Solor now. His priority is my priority, and if he is not upset, then neither am I." She looked at the remains of the microphone. "Besides, I am sure that the reporter just lost money for that report, seeing as microphones like that are not very cheap."
"I'm surprised," Edward said, "You're acting totally opposite to what I am used to. However, as you're OK with this. I will not have to go to their building and threaten to flatten their printing press."
"Thank you," Solor said, "I'm not the same anger filled dragon you met a year ago."
"Solor," Edward said, "I've been a royal clorbag. I've let our initial encounters cloud my mind and biased my treatment of you and, the worst part is, I know there's no reasonable excuse. In the last several months, you've changed a lot for the better. Even Sol is impressed with the change in your attitude enough that he fully supported renaming you as Heir to the Light."
"You mean you would not want the position?" Solor asked.
"You are your father's firstborn, my friend," Edward said, "I have no right to take that away from you. You recanted your telling him where to stuff being the Light Heir, he forgave you. That's the important thing. I never desired your position, Starborn, ever. I do not like ruling unless I have to. Being your general in this war is an honor and a privilege, yes. But, you are also in charge of the Light dragons because you have earned the spot, I trust you to make the right decisions ... and I will try to discern when you are truly angry and help you instead of hindering you. I want you to feel comfortable talking to me about anything. If you need to tell me off, I'm the same Edward you got to know a year ago, and I can take my lumps."
He's not that telepathic, is he?! It's like he knew what's worrying me so much.
"I'll do that," Solor replied with a smirk.
There was an insistent knock on the door and Solor answered it.
"What did you do to my microphone?" the guy asked.
"Excuse me," Solor said, "But, who are you?"
"Jack McGee," the guy said, "National Enquirer."
Starfire handed McGee the remains of the microphone and he said, "That's $1500 someone owes me!"
Edward said, eyes glowing yellow, "Mr. McGee, don't make me angry. You wouldn't like me when I'm angry."
"Who are you?" McGee asked.
"I could be your worst nightmare, McGee," Edward said, "Name's Barnes, Edward Barnes. You know, the rather large dragon seen protecting Titan Tower and the White House. Now, the way I see it. You invaded my friends' right to privacy and put their wedding night in your paper. You deserve a drink from a gallon of whoop-ass. The ONLY reason you are walking out of this room is because Solor and Starfire are not angry about it. You have a choice: Turn and leave voluntarily or be escorted out by hotel security or I escort you out and I may not be as friendly as the hotel folks. Regardless, here's your microphone back. And, a word of advice: Stay out of Jump City. Your violations of personal privacy will be met by Solor's friends there and, I guarantee you this: You will end up in jail on a trespassing charge and that's if Raven doesn't ship you to Barrow. Also, I suggest that you not print any of this or before I leave for my home, I will make sure that you are blacklisted from every newspaper in this country. Take a hike, McGee. I never want to see you again."
McGee took the smashed device and left.
"Call the front desk, please," Edward asked, "Tell them that there's a guy named McGee probably roaming the halls and that he was the one who pulled that stunt."
Starfire made the call and sure enough, a loud voice was heard protesting the guards grabbing him up.
"HEY!" McGee yelled, "Get your hands off me."
"Stuff it, McGee," a guard replied, "You've been a pain in our necks for too long. And, bugging those who helped defend our Capital yesterday is the last straw. The police will be here to take you to jail on a trespassing charge."
"I have the right to be here!"
Edward excused himself and went to "talk sense" into McGee. Meaning McGee was calmly hoisted into the air with one bronze scaled arm and looking into the face of a dragon who had about enough of the man.
"You're on private property, numbnuts. Last I knew, the First Amendment does not give a 'reporter' a right to trespass," Edward said, "I'm here, worried about a damn war to preserve the human race and wasting my time dealing with a piss-ant who I might feed his soul to Trigon. Be grateful that neither Solor nor his wife want to press charges for felony invasion of privacy. One more word outta you, and I will take you back to Boca Raton, and you can watch as I destroy your place of work and tell your publisher why and who is responsible. Do I make myself absolutely clear?"
McGee nodded, "You win!"
"Oh, I see anything about this in your paper and you will not like my reaction. You may certainly claim Freedom of the Press ... but, with that freedom comes the accountability that comes with that Freedom," Edward reminded him and released him. The entire time, his eyes actually stayed their normal color, which surprised Solor and Kreinyol.
"You handled that very nicely," Solor said, "I'm surprised that you didn't get more angry than this.
"It was enough, though," Edward said, "No need to really show him my wrath, correct? Besides, I need to show you the same thing: I'm not a rage filled Dragon, either. I was more angry before I talked to you. But, your taking this so calmly kind of took the wind outta my sails."
Solor nodded as he understood the analogy.
Edward did smile though as he said, "Now, I can congratulate you two on your marriage. After the war is over, have Raven open a Tear to my universe. You two get an all expenses paid honeymoon, on me."
Solor and Kreinyol's jaw dropped, "T-t-thank you, Edward!"
"You're welcome! You won't get much of a honeymoon now, but, when this is all over, I want you to have the best honeymoon ever.
"But, I am concerned. When the Circle finds out (not from me), I do not think even I can keep them from banishing you for good, Light Heir or not. If that happens and you both need a place to be rid of those who would hunt you down, my door is always open. I have the resources to set you both up with a nice place wherever you want."
Solor frowned at that. "Thank you, Edward..." he said, reaching over and taking a hold of Kreinyol's hand. "But I will face whatever the Circle decides against me with my head high. I will not run, not from them, or anyone that tries to get in my way." The fierce look in Kreinyol's eye pretty much said it all, as she stood by her husband.
Edward sighed, "Now, I get to head back to the Tower and see if Raven's calmed Robin down. He overheard us talking last night and he figured things out. He is not taking it well. I'd recommend you stay another night, but -"
"-I will face Robin without your help," Solor said. Edward nodded, "I was going to say something along those lines."
He gave Starfire a hug and got a good look at the pattern. He smiled at that.
Solor also got a hug and Edward departed, heading back to the Tower.
When he got there, he was mobbed by Cyborg, Terra and Beast Boy.
"Chill, guys," Edward said with a smile, "Yes, there was a bug in their room. A 'reporter' snuck a tiny mic onto Starfire's jacket. Solor crushed it, but, that was the extent of their reaction. Turns out that in his home, it's really hard to keep the consummation of a marriage quiet, so, pretty much everyone knows when the Circle gives their blessing to a pairing. He wasn't upset at all! Neither was Starfire."
The three teens breathed a sigh of relief. It was obvious that Robin would be the one to steer clear of.
"So, they are 'married'?" Beast Boy asked.
"Yep," Edward said, "But, let's not make a bit deal out of it. Robin's going to have a hard enough time over the next few days, and that's assuming those blasted Dark Dragons can leave us alone for a while.
"And, Robin's going to have to develop weapons that pack a bigger punch as well."
They chatted for a while, staying out of Raven's hair and letting her help their leader get through a rough time.
XxXxX
Robin growled for the umpteenth time today, and slammed his fist against the ground again. "I'm sorry, Raven, but I don't get it. How is sitting here and thinking about Solor and Starfire supposed to help me?"
Raven sighed. They had been at this for a good hour, and Robin kept interrupting the session. Raven, on the other hand, was getting frustrated, and a few things had been flung across the room in her frustration.
"You know what? Maybe I'm going about this the wrong way", she said. She floated over to Robin, sitting in front of him. "Since practical meditation isn't working for you so far, and we need you to not be in a rage-induced angst when Solor and Starfire come back, I'm going to help you see clearly."
"And how are you going to do that?" asked Robin warily.
"By going down memory lane", said Raven. "We're going to go through all of your memories concerning those two, and hopefully, you'll see the answer."
Robin sighed. "I don't have much of a choice, do I?"
"No, you don't", Raven monotoned. She placed her hands on his head. "Now; we're going to be passed out in the real world, but we'll be walking through your mindscape to see the memories. Kind of like what I did with Solor a week ago. Just be calm, and don't kick me out. That would be very rude."
"Isn't it rude to intrude into someone's head?" Robin countered.
"Hush. This is for your own good."
With a simple breath, Raven's soul self entered Robin's mind, and like a flash, the scenario was way different to the two Titans. Changing from the gym to the streets of Jump City was a bit disorienting, but the two could see clearly that this was the night of the Titans' forming. Solor and the boys were just about to move forward and attack the angered Starfire when Raven stopped them. "Maybe fighting isn't the answer", she suggested.
"Okay, what are we doing here?" asked Robin.
"You brought us here, not me", Raven replied.
The group stared at the alien, and Solor suddenly put on a look of understanding. He suggested that he go forward and talk to the alien. Robin initially wasn't going to let him, but ended up doing so, considering that before he could deny Solor, the dragon walked forward. The real Robin frowned, remembering that. "Even back then, he and I didn't get along."
"Well, what were you going to do back then?" Raven asked.
Robin sighed. "Well... I was going to suggest the same thing. I mean... she did look scared more than angry. I guess he just picked up on it faster. Kinda makes sense; he's been on this world a lot longer than any of us; he recognized the emotion a lot faster than any of us when he wasn't pissed as hell."
Raven smirked, but said nothing.
The next memory was after that night, when Starfire asked to stay. Solor offered his friendship, as did Robin. Once they all had their communicators, Cyborg mentioned building a tower. "With the mayor's permission, we should be able to build an HQ here. That way, we'll be in the center of the disaster zones, should anyone be dumb enough to mess with us."
"Question is, where are we going to stay while the tower is being built?" Raven asked. "Obviously, I'll bunk with Starfire. I have a room in a hotel with an extra bed."
"Same here", Robin said. "Beast Boy and I can share. What about you two?"
Cyborg shrugged. "I got my own charging station, but my batteries will last a while. I think I'm good for a few days, as long as we don't have to fight any more aliens. No offense, Star."
"None taken."
Solor, however, looked a bit confused. He looked around, and spotted the forest just outside of the city. "There. I will stay there", he said, pointing.
"Wait, in the forest?" Robin asked, surprised.
"Unacceptable!" Starfire refused, grabbing Solor's hand, which surprised the dragon. "I cannot allow my new friend and savior to live in such meager conditions! You will stay with Raven and I!"
Solor shook his head, recovering from the initial shock. "First... just call me Solor. I am no one's savior. Second... I do not like being touched." At that, Starfire sheepishly pulled her hand away. "And third, I am used to hostile conditions. I can survive easily in the forest as the alpha."
Starfire looked ready to object again, but Raven stopped her. "Let him. Judging from his attire and powers, he's probably used to living on meager provisions. And as much as I wish I could help, I don't exactly have the funds to put him up, too."
Robin thought about offering to put up with Solor, but after seeing how Starfire looked so sad, decided against it. He didn't want to help someone who was just gonna throw his generosity back in his face.
"If there are no objections, then I shall find a place to sleep for the day. Contact me if you require my assistance." Solor flapped his wings and took off, and everyone began to go their separate ways. Starfire was the last one to start moving, giving Solor one more look before following Raven to her hotel room.
Robin remembered not liking how much attention Starfire was paying to Solor, but pegged that as just not liking him back then.
Next was the night that Blackfire arrived on Earth. When Starfire was kidnapped by the Centaury drone, Solor had contacted the group and told them he needed help in saving her. On the outside, Robin was doing his job as the leader... but on the inside, he realized that he was happy Solor couldn't save Starfire. It gave him a chance to play the hero and try to save Starfire himself. However, in the end, it was Solor who destroyed the machine.
"I don't get the point", said Robin. "What's it all supposed to mean?"
"We're getting there. Just keep watching", said Raven.
Continuing onto the memories was the night that Solor quit the Titans. Robin remembered being picked up and shaken a bit. "Robin? Robin! Wake up, my friend!"
"Star, if you keep shaking me, I might pass out", he said, feeling very dizzy from the shaking. After she settled down a bit, he shook his head, getting his bearings back. "Damn... Solor can really pack a punch", he said, motioning to the broken couch.
"Solor did this?" Starfire asked, confused. "But he would never attack any of us! What happened?"
"Well, Solor asked for the day off so he could go about his mission", Robin explained, though he looked rather angry. "However, thanks to the camera's at a new club opening up, I found out that he met up with Jinx of the H.I.V.E. and spent the night with her. Then he got attacked and didn't call for backup like he said he would." He showed Starfire the footage, and she remained silent for a minute.
"You and I are going to find him, teammate Robin", she finally said, putting emphasis on the word "teammate". "Robin, how could you push him away? It is obvious from the footage that he is not planning anything malicious, and he was certainly doing the holding back until he discovered that his attackers were not human!"
Robin was stunned. "Are you kidding, Star? He was dancing with a villain! He could be planning any kind of crime with her!"
"I see only two teenagers having fun on a Friday night", Starfire replied, glaring at Robin. "If you do not wish to find him... then I shall search for him myself."
Robin thought at first she was bluffing... until she made for the door. "Wait! Don't! I'll start looking. I'm... I'm sorry. I let my anger get the best of me."
Starfire immediately brightened up, and the two got to work.
The real Robin, meanwhile, was watching, and he couldn't help but glare. So far, every time that Starfire was happy... it was because of Solor. Everytime she was sad, he was there to help her. And Robin was only considered a friend.
From the very beginning.
Robin sighed. "I get it, Raven. Let's go back."
Raven nodded, and soon the two were back in their bodies. Raven took her hands from Robin's head, and settled back. "So... what did you learn? We didn't look at as many memories as I thought we would."
Robin sighed. "I never had a chance with Starfire, did I?"
Raven shook her head. "I could feel from the very beginning that Starfire had a crush on Solor. And those feelings only grew as they got closer together. I'm sorry, Robin... but you'll have to be satisfied with being her best friend."
Robin sighed, and leaned back. "You know... it's kinda... relieving."
"How so?"
"Well... I've been putting a lot of stress on myself. And while I'd love to be the one Starfire loves... I'm happy to just be her friend. She's a great person, and I'll always be there for her if she needs me."
"And what about Solor?"
Robin glared a bit. "If he does anything to hurt her..."
Raven smirked. "... then we'll have to protect him from Starfire. You know he'd never do that willingly."
Robin nodded. "Well... that might be a moot point. They're married now... so I'll have to be the bigger man and congratulate them."
"Glad you think so", said a familiar voice, and both Titans turned to see Solor and Starfire standing there, with an amused Edward standing by.
"W-When did you guys get here?" Robin asked, surprised and embarrassed.
"A bit ago", Solor said. "After we got contacted by Edward earlier today, we decided it was time to cut the vacation short and return home. Edward teleported us home."
Starfire flew over to Robin, giving him a hug. "I am sorry, Robin. Perhaps if it played out differently, we could be more. But my heart belongs to Husband Solor... and while I know that is not your ideal situation, I am most pleased to hear you say that you'll be here for us."
Solor nodded, walking over and placing a hand on his leader's shoulder. "And I will be here for you as well... brother."
Robin looked up, surprised. The only one he had ever called brother was Edward, and that was because they were so close. Did Solor's opinion of him really change that much? He couldn't help but smile sadly. "Thanks, guys. I'm here for you, really... I just... think I need to be alone for now." He walked out, but stopped to look at Raven. "And... thanks, Raven. For everything. You're a good friend."
Raven nodded her head. "I'm not just here to throw Beast Boy out of a window, you know. I do care for you guys."
Edward chuckled at that one remembering when his spouse would toss Beast Boy out the nearest window. Edward was glad Raven was able to help out before Robin got his butt handed to him by Solor. Then again, Solor had calmed down a lot over the past year, so, a serious fight probably would not even happen. That, in itself, was a bright spot in the impending war.
Edward tossed his idea to chat with Robin, seeing that Raven handled that particular crisis. He figured that his help, for once, was rendered a moot issue and was happy for that.
Edward switched to the Dragon language and said, "I am glad that this problem is settled."
"I am, too," Kreinyol said, also in the dragon tongue. Both Edward and Solor's jaws hit the floor.
"Since when to you speak my language, my love?" Solor asked.
"Since last night," she said, "Remember I learn languages through physical contact? Last night was ..."
"We know!" Beast Boy said, getting a slap from Raven and Terra!
"OUCH!" he yelled, rubbing his head, before realizing that he needed to form a bird, and fast, as Rachael phased him through the window, having heard the end of the conversation.
Solor blushed a bit, and rubbed the back of his head. "So... I am assuming that everyone saw that article?" he asked.
"Only ones who didn't were Robin and Raven, thanks to them having to work through Robin's anger issue", Cyborg said. "When he found out, you can imagine he was mad."
"With the last year of him trying to find an excuse to break-up me and Kreinyol, I would not be surprised", Solor mused. "Oh well. He's accepting of it now. That is all that matters."
By then, Beast Boy had come back in grumbling, "OK, which Raven tossed me that time?"
"I'll never tell," they both said in stereo. Edward just started whistling "Off to see the Wizard".
Solor, however, smiled. "Beast Boy, you did kind of deserve that one. After all, as skilled a fighter you are, tact is not your strong point."
"Husband, perhaps you should think before you speak", Kreinyol said. She then whispered into Solor's ear in his language, "or do you want me to tell Terra about your new weakness so she can pay you back for how hard you were on her during her training?"
Solor's face turned bright red at the thought of that. "Don't you dare!" he yelled, getting everyone to stare at him. He blushed even more, gave Kreinyol a look that said, "You're gonna get it later", and quickly walked away, excusing himself in the dragon tongue.
"Um... do I wanna know what that was about?" Cyborg asked.
"Nothing", Kreinyol said. "Just helping my friends out by 'taking him down a peg'."
Terra smirked. "Any way I can get you to share this little secret? I could use some payback on him."
"My lips are the sealed", Kreinyol replied. "Now, if you shall excuse me, Husband Solor and I need to unpack." With that, she excused herself and headed out as well.
Raven, meanwhile, managed to pick up a bit of the conversation through her empathy, and was trying very hard not to laugh.
"You know something", said Beast Boy, noticing her strained expression.
Raven panicked a bit, and quickly teleported before Beast Boy could try to get the info out of her.
Edward pondering what was going on, but a look from his Raven convinced him not to.
It was a good thing as the communications station and Cyborg answered it.
It was Sol (the Titans had loaned him a communicator a while back), "I need to speak to Starborn," he said.
Solor went over to the console and said, "Greetings, father."
Sol smiled at his son, bowing his head a bit. "Well... I must admit... it took a lot of work, more than I would like to admit. I will not go into details about how I acquired this information, but I will say this; the Dark Dragons have lost contact with Vilea, except for Darksun himself. We were rather lucky on our choice of prisoner. However, she has laid at least two eggs. So, if she does have more, we are unaware."
Solor nodded. "Well, at least we now know where to go. Did he describe the colors?"
"Bronze and black", replied Sol. "Half of the egg is bronze, the other half dark as the night sky. Likely the dragons will have a similar coloring. Possibly bronze with a dark underbelly."
"Is there any more that we can get out of him?" Edward asked.
Sol shook his head. "Not possible. After spilling his guts, Darksun passed from the pain. His soul is now in judgement of the First." He then took a look at Solor, and seemed to notice something. "My son... you have claimed your mate?"
Solor blushed, fidgeting. "Does everyone know about this?"
Sol chuckled. "No. I just figured since you have a Light around you that you didn't before. I assume Kreinyol was your choice?" When his son didn't answer, Sol sighed. "I am... torn. As a leader, I am disappointed in you. However... as a father, I could not be happier." Solor's eyes widened, surprised by the statement. "I know you love her. And she loves you, in ways that surpasses any love I have seen in all four thousand years of my life." He then looked at Kreinyol, and suddenly, his eyes narrowed. "Wait... something is off..."
Solor and Kreinyol looked at each other, wondering what he was talking about.
Is something wrong with Kreinyol? Solor thought, concern in his eyes.
However, she gasped, placing her hands over her mouth. "I-I heard that in my head!" she squeaked.
Sol's eyes widened, then he looked at Solor again. His eyes closed, as he sighed. "Edward, Solor, it is time to return to Lair. Now that Solor is soulbound as well, I think our determination of Breed Traitors has come into question. I do not mean that as a derogatory term, Kiinnum; it is time to question this tradition, as not one, but two dragons have become bonded to mortals. I will explain in detail when you arrive." And at that, Sol cut the communication short, leaving no room for question.
Solor looked up at the blank screen, wondering what the hell that was about. Then he turned back to Kreinyol, and thought again. [Kreinyol, can you hear me?]
She squeaked in surprise. "Husband, how are you speaking when your lips are not moving?"
Solor sighed. "As I thought... so I am bound to you now." Solor turned to Edward. "We must make haste to Lair. Sol will explain everything."
Edward piped up, "You two are soul-bonded, I think. It's not true telepathy because Rachael and I could talk telepathically before we were married. Yet, Raven can hear us quite well because we're on the same 'wavelength'. For you two, no matter what happens from here on out, you will never break up until Death claims one of you...and Solor?"
"Yes," he said.
"You need to keep her alive, and Starfire...you need to keep Husband Solor alive. When either of you die, the other one will pass shortly thereafter. Star, you also may have been given a gift greater than anyone here: Dragons are very long lived creatures. We have to confirm this with the others, but, you might live to be very old as well. Solor still has at least 1200 to 1400 years before he passes away, if he becomes the new Light of the Circle, he will join an exclusive club of immortal dragons and that would make you virtually immortal as well.
"I'm sorry, my dear Starfire. You cannot come with us right now. This is something that Solor and I must handle ourselves.
"But, you know how Rachael and I can talk without the communicators? You and Solor now have that same gift. Rachael and Raven can help you to learn how to close your mind when you want privacy. I will have to teach Solor as well so that you both can have mental privacy. You will know how each other feels as well. When Solor is angry, Star, you will know it. When she is saddened, Starborn, you will know. You are both responsible to take care of one another's heart as well as physical being. Something, I think, will no longer be a problem."
The two married couples gave their loved ones a hug and headed towards the roof. Edward went to him mini-Dragon form and Solor got on. Both worried about the Circle's reaction. Solor had just started to really earn the right to be back in his home and when the Circle found out, they would want to immediately banish him for good. All because of a law that had outlived its purpose.
Edward took to the air and asked, "Ready, brother?"
"Solor doesn't back down from a fight," was the reply.
Edward focused on the demolished volcano in the heart of Lair and teleported...
As soon as the dragons were gone, another figure appeared on the roof, the shadows washing away as his Dark magic faded. "So... Filkiin of the Light is a Breed Traitor... I must inform the Darkness!" With that, a Tear opened up, and he vanished once more.
Solor had no idea of how much danger he had just put his wife in.