Chapter 9
[7 AM next morning]
[Titan Tower]
Edward had not slept as well as Solor and Raven as he was also faced with the possibility that his niece was hiding a dark side from everyone, and, he was worried for her safety and her life. If she even had a hint of being able to kill a member of the Circle, they could decide to execute her before she posed a threat. That would completely undo his work with Solor, devastate Kreinyol and potentially cause a war between the Dragons and Tamaran with humans caught in the middle and forcing the Justice League to make a stand.
Edward's mind drifted back to a conversation with Vicky from over a decade ago. But, unlike so many times before, this time he focused on one thing.
[Flashback]
[13 years ago]
[Titan's Tower]
[A/n: This is from "Kreinyol's Pregnancy"]
"So... this is most likely what our child will look like", she said, staring blankly at the image on the screen.
"Yeah", Solor said, sighing. "I ran a test to see how a child between the two of us would develop... and that is how it was determined the pregnancy would take as long as eleven months. Then it showed me four possible outcomes... and this girl is the most likely to occur."
Kreinyol remained silent, looking at the child on the screen and observing every detail. She read the power list, and eventually decided to share her opinion.
"She will be most beautiful when she grows up."
Edward sighed. It was not a happy sounding one and Kreinyol noticed it as well as Solor.
"Spill it, Brother," Solor said.
Edward said, "Solor, you best sit down as well. I was talking to Vilea a little while ago and she gave me some bad news that, even for me, is difficult to relay.
"I can't really sugar coat this one: When the Circle is informed that this baby will not be born 'normal' as humans and dragons call normal ... there is a good chance that they will vote to ... "
"NO! I WON'T ALLOW THEM TO KILL MY BUMGORF!" Kreinyol roared angrily. Then she burst into tears at the thought that the Circle would do something so monstrous. Edward grabbed her in a firm hug, letting her vent on him instead of Solor ... or Vilea.
Solor snarled angrily now, showing his more animalistic side as his snout elongated.
"They will have to KILL ME to get to her!" he roared. "No one will touch MY child!"
He would have roared more, planning on telling Edward exactly where the Circle could put their vote, when his communicator went off. He paused, looking at who was calling him, and immediately paled, his nose going back to normal. "Oh, Oblivion... it's Father... what should I do? I can't ignore him..."
With a reassuring nod from both Kreinyol and Edward, he slowly answered. "Son... are you well? You look a little pale..."
"I am f-fine, Father", Solor said, and Kreinyol pinched the bridge of her nose.
When he was caught off guard, Solor was a terrible liar.
Edward rolled his eyes.
"... For some reason I doubt that", Sol said, sighing. He looked his son in the eye.
"My son, are you concerned about your wife's pregnancy? I had a hunch, and decided to check on you."
Solor didn't answer, surprised that his father had already figured it out.
He heard his father chuckle lightly. "My son... don't be concerned. I know that the child will not be of natural birth... and the Circle is alright with that."
Everyone's jaw dropped. Had he been listening the whole time? He must have done something to tap into communications, because there was no other possible way he could have just guessed that.
"Life removed that spell for a reason, Filkiin", Sol continued. "You have earned our trust, and we know that whatever decision you make will be the right one. You have earned our respect and trust. Besides... if we let Soskrein and Callisto survive, even with their unique hybrid status, then why would you doubt that we would let your child live? It wouldn't exactly be fair, now would it?"
Immediately, Solor could feel a weight lift from his shoulders. Now he wasn't worried about it anymore... and Edward was silently sighing in relief as well. Now there wasn't any threat of a war between the dragons and Tamaran. Funny how problems sometimes fix themselves, he thought.
Edward said, "S...Father, thank you for the words of reassurance. It is a surprise to all of us here. In fact, it's a HUGE weight off our minds. I, for one, am pleased that the Circle has already voted in favor of more hybrids being born. Then again, I am naturally biased."
[End Flashback]
Had Susie, though, shoved any negative feelings down given her father's disappearance? That was the other question on Edward's mind that morning, as the sun rose and shone upon the tower. He slipped silently out of bed, letting Rachael rest a bit longer, as he headed to the roof. He was surprised, though, to see both Raven and Solor walking past at a rather brisk pace, and for a moment, the worry and questions left as he smirked. "Fell asleep at the beach, huh?"
"Bite me", Solor said a bit grumpily, and the hybrid could see that the Prime was tired as well. "After that conversation last night, we couldn't get too much sleep." He turned to his wife, sighing a bit. "Go to bed, Ruuvak. I'll gain more energy in the sun's light."
"Don't have to tell me twice", Raven stated, slipping out of his grasp and letting Edward see her one last time in her swimsuit before she vanished, teleporting to her room. The Light dragon sighed a bit, before turning to Edward. "Shall we meditate?"
The older hybrid nodded silently, and the two headed for the roof, where a familiar purple-robed girl already was, her back to them. Her hood was up as she silently spoke a mantra... though Edward could immediately tell it was not the one he was used to hearing. It was in Dovahzul, the natural language of dragons. Susie spoke softly, focusing on the words, but she paused when they got close. She then turned around, opening her eyes, and the two saw violet instead of the natural crimson she normally had. "Good morning... Father... Uncle", she said slowly. "Come to enjoy the sunlight?"
"Sosvulon", Solor stated curtly. It was obvious that he was on high alert, but he made no move to attack. "Why are you out?"
"Do not worry, Father, I did not overpower her, if that is what you fear", the girl said. "It was my sister's idea; rather than keeping me locked up until I inevitably break free, she and I have come to an agreement. I will be allowed out, with good behavior... and she will work with me to strengthen us both until the day we can become one again."
Edward raised an eyebrow, "Taking a page out of my playbook, kid?"
"You can say that," Sosvolun replied, "You didn't think Susie didn't see your little adventure in Metropolis. How you turned into a Dark Dragon to scare those animals into talking. How long did it take to get your Darkness to cooperate with you?"
"It took a while," Edward admitted, "Your parent's twins teamed up to help me through a bad time."
"I know," Sosvolun replied, "I was listening in when you told Susie about it."
Edward, sensing no hostile intent, sat down next to her and said, "I am happy for the both of you coming to this agreement. It gives me hope."
"Why?" she asked, "We're both descended from the First Circle. Mother Dearest should be deathly afraid."
"Sosvolun," Edward said gently, "Taking down a Grand will turn every single dragon against you now. It was one thing for your dad to take out your grandfather to end a long running war. Killing a Grand now ensures that you and Susie are marked for death. That includes Vilea. There would be a price on your head."
She looked at Edward strangely for a moment, "I never thought of it that way."
"Susan", Solor stated calmly, getting both hybrid's attention, "I killed your grandfather for a few reasons. One was to end the war... the other was to protect the ones I love."
"And I would have done the same", Sosvulon stated. "I care deeply for you, Father... and the newest Grand Darkness had done terrible things to you. It is only because now I know she is my mother that I promise to not hurt her."
"Because she is family?" Solor asked.
"Because you wish her to be", Sosvulon answered simply. "I will always love you and Mother... and as much as I hate Vilea... I will suppose I have to deal with her in another way, other than violence." She sighed, a little irritated. "This would be so much simpler if you hated her as much as I did, but I know that's not gonna happen unless she truly follows Grandfather's path." She turned to Edward, giving a slightly irritated look. "And a very small part of that... I will have you to thank, Uncle Edward Barnes. Had you not been here, I might have had more chances before Soskrein would try to reason with me, or before Father would have outed Vilea as my mother." She bowed her head slowly, keeping her eyes on Edward. "Thank you... for taking care of my twin."
"I've discovered," Edward said, "That while Vilea may not win Mom of the Year awards, deep down, she does care for her daughter. For you and your other half, it will take a while for her to drop the mask. But, Sosvolun, as much as you will loathe the idea, and no matter how much you resist it...you will have to forgive Vilea. In both worlds, she did things to your dad that normally should not be forgiven. Yet, if I was able to be the first to tell her that I was forgiving her. If your father can find it within his heart to forgive her, then, you and Susie will have to let this grudge go. Don't you see how your dad is stronger now? He did suffer for a long time...blaming himself to some degree, I think. Do I wish you had other hybrids to talk to? Yeah, I do. And come this evening, I will head home."
Sosvolun looked at Edward and sighed, "Why should I forgive her? What's in it for me?"
"Sweetie," Edward replied, "Forgiveness isn't always for the other person. Forgiveness is for you. If there's to be healing, first comes forgiving the other person. It's deeply personal. I had every reason and right to kill Vicky when I helped capture her. Grandpa Sol was the only member of the Circle available at the time as the others were petrified and Grand Death was no where to be found. But, kid, I am glad I stayed my wrath. Vicky is my half-sister there. Had I killed her and discovered later that I killed a family member, I would have killed part of my heart and soul. My forgiving her was as much for me as for her, and certainly for Lair's population. It showed everyone that no matter what, if their Commander can forgive an enemy, then, maybe it was time to let all that hate go. That's one reason why the Dark Clan is home and welcomed in Lair. Grand Fire said I brought different flames to that fight, and, I see where he comes from now."
"He's right," another voice said. Rachael had come upstairs, sensing that Edward wasn't talking to Susie.
"It changed everything for the better," she continued, "Vicky has the same issues that your mom has in keeping her clan in line at times, but, they know that there's lines not to cross anymore. They know that my husband enjoys having the clan in Lair, and many respect that he has Grand Darkness' back as much as the other Grands. But, Sosvolun, please help Susie understand that she is equal parts Light and Dark. You are more than heritage and just a matter of fact. You are part of her. It's not easy for me being half human, half Trigon. Edward helps make it easier. His light balances my own Darkness. Your father's light balances out Raven's dark side. Let Susie and your dad and grandfather help balance you out."
Before the dark emoticlone, for lack of a better term, could respond, the other Raven warped to the roof as well, this time dressed in her normal uniform. Once she set eyes on her, Sosvulon immediately lowered her eyes, averting her gaze. "Mother..." she said softly. This threw the others for a loop; until now, Sosvulon stood in a very confident manner. With Raven's presence, the girl was now quiet, and uncertain.
Raven approached the girl, lifting her eyes up so they could look at each other. "I want to see my daughter", Raven said softly.
The Twilight hatchling blinked, before nodding. "Of course... I-I'll go get Soskrein right away..."
Raven silenced the girl with a simple shake of her head. "No. I want to see you, Susan. Show us the form you have in your mind, not just borrow what Susie made."
Edward nodded to show her that it was OK, "I'll admit to being curious as well. Please?"
Sosvulon stared for a moment, and reluctantly nodded. Her hair became a very dark color, almost pitch black. Her form changed slightly to reflect Raven more, and her cloak changed from purple to black as well, until what looked to be an older sister to Susie was standing before them. She looked down at her feet, while Raven placed her hands on her shoulders. "Why did you choose to look like this?" Raven asked.
"Because... I take so much after Father... I thought... maybe you'd... like me more if I... look more like you?" Susan stated softly, still unsure.
Raven gave a soft smile, hugging the girl gently. "When we fought, Susan, it was because you were hurting Susie. I love you just as much as her. And I only fought so hard so that you wouldn't make her hurt someone who was innocent." She pulled back, looking into Sosvulon's eyes. "If you and Susie are serious about this, and you promise to work together... I will always be happy to see you."
"R-really?" Susan asked, smiling slightly.
"Really", Raven promised. She then let the smile fall. "But remember, you're still only eleven. I don't want you walking around in a teenager's body yet."
"R-right", Susan stated, quickly adjusting her body so she looked closer to Susie's actual age. "Sorry."
"That's fine," Raven said, "Sosvolun, I do love both of you, and, nothing will ever change that, no matter what happens."
Edward merely smiled, some of his worry being forgotten. He knew then that he, Rachael and Vicky would have an easier time, he hoped, with his god-daughter's eventual reveal of Sosvolun, or whatever name that alternate would choose for herself. He knew he would have to have a similar discussion with all involved on how to deal with Soskrein's dark side.
He got up and said, "I think you have a lot to discuss. Solor, you and Raven stay put. Rachael and I will handle breakfast."
"I'd like to stay," Rachael said. Edward nodded, "That's fine. Give me the Clif Notes later on."
"OK," Rachael said. Edward headed downstairs to work on breakfast for the team.
Edward knew that Rachael would record the conversation and he made a mental note to watch it later on and have his biological family watch as well.
[I'll be listening in via the link,] Edward replied.
Solor turned to Sovulon. "So... are there any likes or dislikes we should be aware of, compared to Soskrein?"
Sosvulon nodded a bit. "I am not as big of a fan of the same music as Soskrein... I prefer more among the lines of the band Disturbed and the like... and as for missions, I am more of a... hands on kind of girl, rather than focus on using magic."
Raven nodded. "Understood. We'll keep that in mind, if we need to go on a mission with you. Just understand that you can't kill or permanently disable a villain... although the latter may be justified, depending on the threat they pose."
"Of course", Sosvulon said. "Soskrein has given me a rundown on what is expected of me. If I do anything that goes out of the rules laid down by the Titans, she is to immediately take control."
Solor decided to bring up a particularly troubling topic. "How would we know that you aren't planning to be in control permanently? I know Raven would be able to tell if you are lying to us, but I want to hear the reason from you."
Sosvulon nodded again, closing her eyes. "Well... much like how I feed off of negative emotions, Soskrein feeds off of positive. If I were to attempt to stay in control, I would be forced to leave the Titans. The love here is far too overwhelming, and Soskrein can easily take over if I indulge her too much on those particular emotions. Of course, she did not know this when she was dealing with me initially, and that is why she has had such a hard time fighting for control with me."
As the group talked, Edward was preparing breakfast for the guys. As he was doing that and monitoring the conversation, his concerns were lessened a little bit more. It seemed that Sosvulon was willing to work with the rest of the group, at least in this tiny fragment of the history.
Yet, Edward knew what when his time here ended later on, everything would be for naught. He sighed sadly.
"Are you OK, friend Edward?" Starfire asked.
"I'm fine," he said, "I will be heading home today and, well, given that Sosvulon is paying us a visit...It's OK, Star!" She had started for the roof.
"She is not harming anyone?" Starfire asked.
"Susie and her Dark half came to an understanding overnight, looks like," Edward replied, "It's all good, for the time being. Rachael, Raven and Solor are talking with her, laying down the basic ground rules that all Titans, even myself, must abide by."
Starfire smiled, "I will trust you, friend Edward."
"Princess," Edward said with a smile, "Don't ever change that caring heart of yours. You and Nightwing make a great team."
That got a smile out of Starfire.
"Mind if I ask a personal question?" Edward asked as he was cooking up a bunch of eggs, bacon and ham for the team, with the needed tofu variant for Beast Boy.
"Sure," Starfire replied.
"After you defeated Blackfire for the crown," Edward asked, "Have you encountered her again?"
Her face fell, "No, I haven't. I really don't want to. I've forgiven her for her actions, but, I do not wish to see her again...not unless she's has done the redemption."
"Can I show you something?" Edward asked.
"I suppose so," Starfire said.
"For what it's worth, I think you will enjoy this," he said.
He pulled his communicator and said, "Edward to Alice."
"Alice here," the AI responded, "What's up, Edward?"
"Send me over the pictures of Kreinyol, Blackfire and Wildfire, please," Edward requested, "I want to show the Prime Starfire."
"OK," she said, "Transmitting now."
There was a short pause, and suddenly the main screen lit up. Dozens of pictures appeared on the screen, all including one of the three siblings. The fewest were Wildfire, which startled Star originally, but the bigger surprise was seeing pictures of Blackfire and herself. There were so many, including one where they posed at the beach, another at a restaurant, and one that seemed rather recent. The two were passed out on the couch, wearing sweatpants and t-shirts, while a pair of teenage girls were using them as pillows. Underneath that last photo was the caption, "Guess they all got tuckered out... I love my family so much."
Star couldn't help but smile at the pictures, especially at the last one. "They seem so happy together... I wish my sister and I could interact like that again..."
"I know," Edward said, "Susie and Komi really love their Aunt Blackfire. She had proven her good intentions fighting Sosfil and giving us a much needed distraction. Then again, my kids love her as well. It's a big ole lovefest there."
The screen lit up with pictures and then a video from that fight.
Edward smirked, "You know me too well, Alice."
"Of course, Edward," the AI said softly, "I've known you since the day Cyborg turned me on."
Starfire was stunned seeing Blackfire joining that fight on the side of Solor's twin and she saw Edward's Dark form for the first time up close.
She let out a wistful sigh, "At least in one universe, the Royal Family of Tamaran is whole. Wildfire, I have not heard from in a long time. And, Blackfire is in exile somewhere.
"Your nieces look wonderful."
"They are, indeed," Edward said as he finished fixing breakfast. He said good-bye to Alice and disconnected.
Shortly after that, the group on the roof finally stepped downstairs, and Sosvulon was silent as she took her usual spot at the table. Solor ended up sitting next to her, morphing to his hybrid form and staying beside her with his wing over one shoulder. This proved to be a good idea, as some members of the team, when they came in, saw her and immediately wanted to attack. But the moment they saw Solor's wing on her shoulder, they knew immediately that this was accepted, and though weary, moved in position around the table. Raven shook her head a bit, before moving to help Rachael and Edward with the plates, setting up the table for breakfast.
"Easy, Titans," Edward said, "She means us no harm."
Beast Boy was the first to break the awkward silence at the table. "So... I'm assuming that Sosvulon isn't angry with us, or else you'd be attacking, right?"
The twilight hatchling's lip twitched into a slight smile. "You'd be correct, Uncle Garfield. I'm... trying something new."
"Well... new is good, right?" Beast Boy commented, giving her a smile. "Let me know how I can help."
"Just... avoid tickling me while I'm out, and you'll be saved a trip to New Jersey", Sosvulon said with a pleasant smile. Then it faded. "As a matter of fact... don't tickle me or Susie. Ever."
Edward smirked hearing that.
[Don't even think about it, buster,] Rachael warned.
[Spoilsport,] Edward sent back.
"Not a big fan, huh?" Terra asked, taking a bite of her eggs.
The twilight girl shook her head. "Absolutely not. It's unpleasant... besides, unlike Soskrein, I don't like physical contact. I'd rather that be saved for a significant other, which I know I will not be seeking for a few hundred years."
Solor smirked a bit. "I think I already like this", he told them. "Not only is my daughter working with her dark powers... but the Darkness has more common sense than her Light twin."
[Oh, for the love of the First] came Susie's voice. [Dad, I should be allowed to date!]
[Nope], Solor said in the mental link, not even batting an eye. [If you get a boyfriend, I'm shipping you to a church and you're gonna be a nun.]
[NO I AM NOT!]
[YES YOU ARE, YOU'RE GONNA WORK FOR JESUS!]
Raven had to try really hard not to let her poker face fall. She knew that the two weren't antagonizing each other, but their banter about this subject was rather amusing this time around.
Edward, meanwhile, rolled his eyes, [What's wrong with working for the Lord Christ? I may believe in the First to some degree, but, I lived in the time of Christ. I wanted to prevent his unjust execution, yet, a voice told me, 'Linus, do not interfere. This is My Will for the sacrifice of my Son will be the atonement for the sins of Man. Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world.']
[Wow!] Susie said as Sosvolun glared, [That's pretty cool that the First spoke to you.]
[Sweety,] Edward said with a smirk, [One only needs to listen for His voice. It's called a conscience. Both of you need to learn to pay attention to it, especially you Sosvolun.]
"Oh, come on!" Sosvolun exclaimed.
Everyone turned to the girl, and her cheeks turned a nice tint of pink as she muttered an apology, before shooting a glare at Edward. [I already have one of those. I like to affectionately call it 'my stupid twin sister'.]
[Hey, you keep calling me stupid, and I'm taking back my body], Susie snapped.
[Good luck getting control of it quick enough], Sosvulon retorted with a smirk. [I promised I wouldn't hurt anyone... doesn't mean I can't play a dark prank or two before you take over.]
Solor only sighed a bit, before turning to Edward. [I apologize, Brother. I wasn't aware that you were in Israel during that time.]
[I don't tell everyone that,] Edward said, [I had been there for a while and as I couldn't exactly reveal myself regardless, I would have been hard pressed to rescue Him. But, the fact remains, I was told to not interfere and I listened to that. Girls, when one is called by the First, just like when the day comes when you will be called by the Circle, duty calls and it cannot be refused...even when one is on a vacation. You'll learn this on your own.
[And...Sosvolun, never tempt a 3,000 year old dragon who could play a Dark prank of his own and has a lot more control over teleportation abilities. I can cast a Tear, use your mom's teleportation, plus my own. However...before you get all dark and scary, I won't torment you two. I would rather my last few hours here be something I will remember...for all of us.] The last was said with a sadness that it didn't take the empaths to figure out.
[You OK?] Susie asked.
[I will be, kiddo,] Edward replied, [It's you guys I am saddened over. None of you will ever remember this.]
Sosvulon spoke up. [We may not remember, but we appreciate this none-the-less. Susie even sent you a video, and I'm certain that will not only help you ease back into your world, it will help people in your world as well.] She took a bite of her breakfast. [Of course, Alice has been asked to keep it private until you return later today.]
The breakfast was mostly eaten in relative silence, with an occasional question directed to the dark half of Susie, which were all politely answered.
Edward's mood picked up listening to the conversation, though. He was listening carefully to the Prime so he had something to work with. Also, he was curious about that message. He had suspected that Susie had sent him something and Sol mentioning it also had him curious. He pondered letting the Titans at home watch it first.
[Honey,] Rachael said, [Alice won't release the video until we are back. All she said was that there is a private message for you and that the 'Prime Susie insisted that it be released only when the time is right.' When pressed by me, the response was, 'When Edward returns from his mission.' She even refused when I input an override code.]
[Sometimes, I wish I could pull her plug, but, it's all right...Wait a tick! Honey, you have command level access, she should have accepted that code, and Cyborg has admin level. She's not supposed to refuse an admin. Susie, sweetheart, how did you get her to do that? She's not supposed to take directions from those not in her system and she knew I'm over here anyway. I'm not angry since I gave you permission to do that and gave her the OK to store a message,] Edward asked.
[... I made her pinkie promise], Susie said with a shrug. [She said that, even under threat of being wiped once the message plays and reset, she wouldn't tell anyone what I told her until you got home.]
[Alice has learned too much over the last 15 years to be wiped,] Edward said, [I would talk Cyborg out of that. The loss of her sentience would be akin to murder now. It'll wait till I get home. I am actually proud of Alice knowing this tidbit. She gave her word and is honoring that. I can't fault her at all. She knows from watching me over the last 15 years or so that once I give my word, I keep it.]
[Even if it's something you do not want to honor?] Sosvolun asked.
[Even then, kiddo,] Edward answered, [Only times I have been released from that was when the other person honored their end of a deal that made what I said moot. Like with Sosfil. She was given 60 days to prove to her family that she was redeemable or risk being forced into Bloodbath. I told her that if that happened and she killed her brother, she would not get to enjoy the victory...I'd jump into the ring and put her in a mortal hospital for a year. I wouldn't kill her and make my father mourn his Heir and his remaining daughter, though. Well, long story short, she was found worthy and while still working on the redemption aspect, her mate and our father were satisfied. She was allowed to see her whelps again, and allowed back into Lair. That's why I was able to go on vacation in the first place.]
Edward finished his breakfast and looking at Solor said aloud, "I cooked, you get to clean up, friend. And, you get to cook lunch as agreed earlier. Whoever cooked the best meal gets some bragging rights...I'll record the verdicts so that, even if you win, your twin can gloat for you."
Solor nodded, while Raven did help him clear up the table, bringing the dishes over to the sink. He put on a pair of gloves, beginning to wash the dirty plates while the team got up to begin their day. "Any particular dish you want to compete on?" Solor asked their visitor.
"Titans," Edward said after a moment, "It's your choice. If Solor is as good as he thinks he is, anything should be fair game. And, a vegan meal for Beast Boy is included."
"Well," Nightwing said, "Good question. We could do pizza..." The team glared at their leader, though, "...or something more exotic that we haven't tried before."
The second suggestion was met with smiles.
"How exotic are we talking?" Edward asked, "Italian, German, Oriental based, something from Africa?"
"Well," Nightwing replied, "Alfred would make this dish a couple times a year that Bruce and I enjoyed from France." He detailed the dish and Edward nodded.
"It's a good meal," Edward replied, "Best made with native ingredients, if memory serves. Means I will have to teleport to France and get the stuff or use a Tear. Rachael, you did bring some hard cash from home, right?"
"I did," she started to say and Nightwing said, "The Titans will cover that cost, Edward. Same for you, Solor."
Solor nodded, and reached around with his tail, grabbing a pen and a piece of paper behind him. Using only his tail, he wrote down a few words in the dragon language, and then held the note out for Raven. "I'll finish the dishes, and if you're not done, I'll join you in France, but could you collect these ingredients for me?"
Raven read the note, then nodded. "Of course." She turned to the Titans, smiling. "I'll be back in time for lunch. See you all in a couple hours." She vanished into a teleport, her soul self heading for France at a rapid rate.
Edward smirked and after Nightwing handed him $200 from the petty cash fund he formed him mini-dragon form and Rachael got aboard...as did Sosvolun.
"Is it OK if I go, Father?" she asked.
"I trust you, Sosvolun," Solor said, "Just do as Edward asks and I have no objections."
"I'll do that," the Dark dragon replied with a soft smile.
Edward's eyes glowed for a moment as he called upon Raven's teleportation and said, "Azarath metrion zinthos!" A dark dome formed for a moment before it likewise disappeared.
The Titans were surprised to say the least as Solor smirked, "He's full of surprises. And, to be honest, guys...Edward's barely tapped into his full potential."
[Paris, France]
The three emerged from the dome and Edward said, "Hopefully, things here are in the same locations as back home. If not, we might have to call Alfred or at least Nightwing."
They had emerged in the market district of the city, luckily and headed off to find the ingredients in question.
As they walked, they saw Solor's wife in the distance and Rachael smirked. "We have a tour guide."
[Raven!] Edward called out telepathically, [We could use a tour guide, please. Rach and I aren't sure if things are in the same place.]
[Got one up on you, eh?] was the reply as she looked around and saw the other couple, [I'll wait here for you. I assume Dad said it's OK for you to tag along, Sosvolun?]
[He did,] she replied.
Edward, meanwhile, was glad he talked Cyborg into allowing a hookup between their Tower's computer and Alice to get a large transfer. He had realized that his report would be lacking a lot of recent history, so, he was transferring over world history from 1900 to the present. Sure, it was still a very short time in the eyes of the dragons, but, it would show the Circle that even if Sol reported the minor breach of the mission parameters, that the most recent history was still important. He would probably glance at history further back, maybe into the mid-1700s and see if it was worth relaying as well. His parameters there were open ended, but, the Circle would have enough information that it would take a long time for the historians to go over. Alice had reported that the transfer was going well and would be finished by 1 PM or so.
He also had Alice get Ralph to relay his home universe's recent history to compare. He'd feature heavily in history from the late 1880s to Present and more localized stuff from 1751 to 1889.
Raven, of course, was more than willing to show them around. She wasn't native to France, either, but she did remember coming here once with Solor ("Lair business" was all she said about that), and exploring some of the countryside before, of course, visiting Paris. She showed them a few of the shops that she visited before, and Edward was pleased to see that it looked like almost everything was in the same spot as in the universe he originated from.
A couple men, who were unaware of Raven's marital status, came to the group, saying a few words in French. Judging by their statures and the tones of their voices, Edward assumed they were hitting on her, and moved to protect her honor instinctively. However, she simply held up her left hand, and Edward spotted a very familiar looking ring on her finger. The men, immediately getting the hint, moved away at a rapid pace, not wanting to incur her (or her husband's, if he was watching) wrath. "Is that the engagement ring Solor gave to you?" Edward asked as Raven turned around.
"Yes", she said, looking at the ring. The rainbow of colors sparkled a bit in the light, and she smiled. "Originally, when we were first bound, I didn't even have a ring, since Dragon's don't usually care much for material gifts. Once word got out that we were having 'premarital sex', of course, he went out, looking for the perfect ring. He came back after his father gave him this, and that very night, we were married under mortal standards."
"You handled them very nicely," Edward commented, "Had they not moved on, they might have learned the hard way instead of the easy way."
Raven smirked, "Very true, Edward."
Sosvolun meanwhile looked like she was about to teach those guys a lesson, but, seeing them walking away at a brisk pace got her to spare their hides.
In the short while they were talking, a familiar Tear appeared, and Solor stepped through, a smirk on his face. "I saw what happened through the link, love. Well done", he told his wife, kissing her cheek.
"Thanks, dear, but you have other things to worry about, don't you?" She handed him the list. "I managed to get a few things, but there's still a few more ingredients missing."
"No problem", Solor stated, taking the list. "Edward, would you like to come with me? We are almost cooking the same thing, after all."
"You almost saw those idiots shipped to Barrow," Edward said darkly, "It would have been funny though how they got to the USA illegally. Regardless, let's go." he said.
They headed off towards the other markets in Paris and within an hour, they had what was needed, hands clenching onto their purchases. Solor, turns out, could speak French fluently, and did not need a translator, to Edward's surprise. "My twin should know all the languages I do", Solor pointed out. "You said he speaks German and Japanese? He should also know Latin, Russian, Korean, Mandarin, and a variety of languages south of our borders and from the eastern hemisphere."
With that, the two headed back home, and Solor immediately got to work. He gathered up his ingredients, looking at the recipe carefully before deciding what to do.
Edward smirked and said in French, "Of course your twin knows many languages, as do I. While we use English as the primary mortal language, it comes in handy knowing a lot more. I have retained a knowledge of several extinct languages as well as they are the base for more modern languages or may still be spoken in some pockets of the world. I know Tamaranian and some Kryptonian as well. I should ask Clark at some point to get me a copy of their written language as well."
Solor smiled, "I see. Yeah, it does come in handy to know different languages. I noticed you were surprised that I know French. It's an elegant language."
"Oui," Edward said in agreement.
They set to work, Raven aiding Solor and Rachael aiding Edward. Edward put a note near the entrance to the Ops Center: "Lest you end up in Barrow Alaska, do not enter unless there is a mission...and Pray that there isn't a mission."
Solor smirked reading that, "I can agree to that as well."
Susie poked her head in about 45 minutes later and said, "Mind if I come in?" It was obvious that Sosvolun had graciously allowed a swap.
"Up to you, Solor," Edward said.
"Just for a moment, Susie," Solor replied, "This is supposed to be a surprise for the most part."
Susie nodded, "Then, I think I will not take an unfair advantage over the others. But, it certainly smells good already!"
"What's your dark half thinking?" Edward said.
"Nothing much right now," Susie said, "She let me out a little while ago without any fuss."
Edward motioned Susie over, "Thank you, Soskrein...Both of you. You have given me some hope with the one I call a niece and an adopted daughter of the heart."
He thought about it for a moment and pulled out his communicator.
"Edward to Alice," he said,
"Alice here," the reply came, "How is your final day going?"
"It's going good," Edward said, "The Prime Solor and I are having a cook-off as a good-bye meal. But, can you patch me through to Susie? There's someone here who I think should talk to her."
"Vicky is talking to her at present," Alice replied.
"Even better," Edward replied, "I think Vicky would also like this information. Patch me through."
"Stand by," Alice said.
[I'm kind of going outside my original mission,] Edward said, [I would like you to tell your counterpart and Vicky how you arrived at this agreement, please. Vicky is not the same as Vilea, kiddo. She is warmer and friendlier than your mother is, so, for me...don't visit your mom's moral crimes on my sister. She is atoning for them her own way and what she did, as I said before, was forgiven by not just me and your dad's twin...but, by the Circle and by Lair as a whole.]
Susie smiled and nodded, "All right, Uncle Edward."
"Susie here," the same voice came back, "When are you coming home, Uncle?"
"In a few hours, sweetheart," Edward said, a twinge hitting his heart, "But, I want you and Aunt Vicky to talk to the Prime Susie for a bit. She has some information to relay that will help you and the rest of us with that dream from last night. In a day or so, we all have to sit down as a family...or when you are comfortable with what is happening. Take the time you need. Ask questions, though."
Before Edward could ask Alice to record anything, though, Susie spoke up. "Edward... I already left a lot of information in my recording to you guys. Anything they want to know about my... condition, I already went into great detail about it in the recording."
Edward raised an eyebrow. "Even the stuff that your mother went over at dinner a couple days ago?"
"That, personally, I wasn't aware of at the time, but I did go over as much as I could from my own information", Susie insisted. "I understand you wanting me to share my information... but Alice already knows what I recorded for you to see at home. Just make sure to open the file as soon as you can, okay? I don't want you to go any further outside of your parameters than you already are."
Edward raised an eyebrow, "All right. I won't push the issue, then. I do see your point, though."
"It's OK, Uncle," Soskrein said from the other end, "Whatever Susie said over there to us will be OK. She has a point, Uncle. Just come home soon."
Edward conceded the point and said, "I know when I'm outvoted. I'll be back later today barring any last moment delays." He sighed and said "I'll see you before you know it."
He disconnected before his emotions got the better of him and focused on the meal preparations.
[Something's wrong,] Raven said to Solor, making sure that Edward and Rachael weren't listening in.
[It doesn't take an empath to figure that out,] Solor replied, [Edward really wants to help his niece and was just shot down. Also, it's as we feared: He may not want to return, but, is being forced to. It's a drawback to being so warm and caring. He'll return home because of his duty to his Circle and for his true family, though.]
[That,] Raven added, [and the fact that if his niece is also having issues with a duplicate of Sosvolun, he fears losing her to the Circle's judgment. I think he would take her, Starborn and Starfire to his home universe and never return to Earth 2.]
[Earth 2?] Solor asked.
[I had to think of a way to keep things straight,] she replied, [Since we're the Prime, think of us as Earth 1 or Prime Earth. That middle universe with your twin and the counterparts of the Circle as Earth 2. Edward's home universe that's a few years ahead of us as Earth 3.]
[Makes sense to me,] Solor said, [But, what can we do to make sure he takes good memories back home?]
[You're already doing that,] she said, [He is doing something that he enjoys immensely and it is taking his mind off things. I worry, for what it's worth, for when he goes home. His niece is also really worried, and she needs him there. It's obvious that the decade her father was gone has imprinted Edward as more than an uncle to her. She didn't wake up her parents, she called him instead.]
[My counterpart certainly won't be happy with that,] Solor said with a mental snort. [Dragons are very protective of their young. And they want to know immediately if something is wrong. Our daughter's counterpart may have accidentally caused a slight against him.]
[I'm certain she meant nothing by it,] Raven pointed out. [She has not spoken to her Uncle in some time; he has been on a vacation since her father has returned, and she was probably told to wait for him to return patiently and not contact him. She's thinking more like a human and less like a dragon... like a certain hatchling you and I know.]
Solor nodded a bit, [True... though I have no doubt their Starborn will want to nip that particular "problem" in the bud and let her know that nothing will pull him away from her ever again, if he's anything like me.]
[I hope so,] Raven said, [Edward also needs to play catch up with his own people, but, from what I can tall, Edward's trying to balance thinking like a human and thinking like a dragon the best he can.]
Edward knew that Solor and his wife were using their link to talk through some things as he was preparing the meal. It was taking his mind off his concerns for the most part. But, he didn't want Susie getting into some bad habits back home. She would have to remember that since her dad was back home, he should be the first to know. Edward had no problem being further down that chain anymore.
As time passed and the meals were getting closer to being finished, Susie was asked, nicely, to go elsewhere as the meal needed to be a surprise for the team. So, she mock glared at her dad and headed off to her room to wait.
Finally, after waiting for a good, long time, Solor looked at his dish, satisfied with how it turned out. The food looked very well prepped and seemed to have been cooked for the perfect amount of time. It didn't look exactly like what Nightwing had described, but that was okay; it was an art, not a science. "I'm ready over here, how about you, Edward?"
"Just waiting for the bread, man," he said, "That'll be a minute or two at most. We can call the guys in, though."
"Sounds good to me", he said, sending a mental shot to his wife and daughter. He then pulled out his communicator. "Dinner is served, people... and if I catch any of you running in here for dibs, I'm throwing you to the back of the line, Garfield!"
"I hate it when you single me out", Beast Boy responded dryly through the communicator.
"Then stop trying to cut ahead of everyone else", Solor argued. "We're not teenagers anymore, 'dude'."
"You were never a teenager to us, Solor", Cyborg pointed out.
"Technicalities", Solor waved off.
"And what does that make me?" Edward said smirking.
"A wise older brother?" Beast Boy said.
"Good answer," Edward said, "OK, folks, have a seat. Solor and I made the same basic dish with our own changes in seasonings and how the courses were put together.
"On the table, Rachael and Raven have put together scorecards with categories. Score each one on a scale from one to 10. Rachael will tally up the scores, if that's OK. If not, we can get someone else who is able to be neutral. Winner gets some bragging rights."
Edward removed the bread from the oven and had to let that cool a little bit.
The team all stepped forward, and Solor opted to step forward, first. He served the team in an elegant manner, balancing a large amount of plates on both arms. Without even stumbling, everyone got their food safely, and Nightwing took the first bite. "Better than what Alfred makes", he said with a smile. "Don't tell him I said that."
"My lips are sealed", Solor stated with a sly smirk. The rest of the team chowed down, and he got very good reviews on his work. In total, he almost got a perfect score... except for Cyborg and Terra, who, being the critics they were, noted a slight bit of dryness in the food. He frowned a bit at that, realizing he might have left the food just a tiny bit too long on the cooker.
"Well... my score's pretty high", he said, smiling. "Let's see what they think of your food, Brother."
"First, something to cleanse the palate, I think," Edward said, "This is not to be scored, though." He handed the diners a small serving of lemon sherbet to refresh the taste buds.
After that, he handed them their plates and said, "OK, friends...dig in."
Nightwing took a bite and his eyes widened, "Fantastic! On par with Solor's, but..."
"Don't sway the others, Nightwing," Edward gently admonished.
The dish scored high marks, even with Cyborg and Terra. It was actually REALLY close when Rachael finally collected the scorecards.
But, in the end, Edward barely edged Solor out by 0.1 point.
"Guys," Rachael said, "you're not going to believe this. The score was 9.6 for Edward and 9.5 for Solor. Not an 'in your face' type victory by any means."
Solor smiled regardless, "Congratulations, Edward." The two shook hands and Edward said, "Well done, Solor. Shall we try our dishes and see for ourselves?"
The Prime nodded, taking a fork and stabbing it into Edward's meal. He then took a bite, carefully considering the food in his mouth, before finally swallowing. "That's really good, Brother. I think this deserves the victory, no questions asked." He didn't bother to eat anything from his own plate; he had tasted the dish several times to make sure it was just right, and knew already what to expect.
Edward took a taste of Solor's dish and also enjoyed it. "Actually, this is a tiny bit dry, as Cyborg and Terra noted. I think if you had removed this like 2-3 minutes earlier, we would have tied. It's otherwise got a good taste, the texture is otherwise spot on. Very well done regardless."
The team nodded, also adding their comments, before a small cough came from Susie, catching everyone's attention. "As much as I'd love to sit here and discuss cooking techniques..." She turned to Edward and Rachael, giving them a sad smile. "... a certain hybrid is waiting patiently for her aunt and uncle."
Solor nodded, his face becoming more somber. He turned to Edward, giving a reassuring smile. "I hope you don't forget us, Brother... for what it's worth... I'm glad I got to meet you."
"We'll remember you folks," Edward said sadly, "I was happily surprised to see this new you. My mission will take a long time for the Circle to digest as there was a lot of data to collect."
He sighed.
"Solor, as I said, your mother would be so proud of the dragon you have become. Kind, caring, and willing to do the right thing, no matter the cost. I know your father is also a proud dragon and proud of his choice of Heir. You will make a wonderful Grand Light. Take care of your family.
"Raven, No matter where I have met you, the shell you were in is long gone and left in the dust of history. You are doing a wonderful job with Susie and I have no doubt that when you reach this point in time again, you will have a handle on helping Susie and Sosvolun."
He looked at the hybrid and said, "Susie...You will have a long life to learn how to work with your darker half. She's as much a part of you as your father's light is. It's more than just heritage. Sosvolun is also you. Embrace her existence and come to terms when when it's OK to let her out."
"She wants to say something to you," Susie said. Edward nodded and said, "I would want to hear it."
Once more, the Twilight dragon's body shifted, and soon, Sosvulon stood where Soskrein had been just a moment ago. She reached up, hugging Edward gently. "Even if we do not remember you... I feel that, perhaps, our worlds are more alike than you think. One day, Darkness and Light will intermingle once again... and your legacy may very well be what causes it."
"My legacy?" Edward asked. The words were touching, but Edward knew that they wouldn't remember... or so he thought.
"I have seen my father's thoughts", Sosvulon whispered to him. "He sometimes pauses mid-thought, and a feeling of familiarity for something that happened at least ten years ago will be brought forward. Shortly after it comes, thought, it passes, and he wonders for a moment about it. Even if you are not remembered... you'll still be touching our lives."
Edward was puzzled though. His last visit was erased and Sosvolun just said that there were some echoes? He would have to ask his leadership if that was even possible or not.
"I wish I had a way to know what happens here," Edward said softly, "Not like I can leave a communicator here. It would also be erased from the timeline, or the circuits that allow it to breach the barriers would be deleted."
"True", Sosvulon said with a shrug. "But... are you truly worried about us?" She gave him a knowing smile, having already figured what he would answer with.
"... Perhaps, if only a little", Edward said. He gave her a smile. "I know, though, that you and your family will be able to take whatever comes to you. And if I come back to visit again, even if I have to work on earning your trust again... it'll be to a happy family."
Sosvulon nodded, before finally letting go. She shifted back to Susie, who in turn stepped back to rejoin her father and mother. Solor gave Edward a happy smile. "If you think you can earn our trust again... don't be afraid to come back", he said. "It would be nice to meet you again."
Edward took several more minutes saying good-bye to the rest of the team, thanking them for their hospitality.
Before Rachael could say anything, though, a tear opened up and the Prime Sol emerged.
"Greetings, Titans. I was hoping I was not too late," he said, "I wanted to send the son I should have had off with something to remember us by."
He handed both Edward and Rachael a ring made with a rare metal and with seven gems each, one for each clan. Edward, however, had an extra gem.
"The extra one is to represent your mother, Edward," Sol said, "Wear this with pride and when she joins the First, please take a moment to remember her twin who should have been able to give you life here.
"Raven, Be good to your mate."
"I'm honored," Edward said, "Thank you."
At that moment, Edward's communicator chirped. "Starborn here", came his brother's voice. "We're awaiting your arrival, Edward, whenever you're ready."
"Stand by, Brother. One minute," Edward said.
He shook everyone's hands, but, true to form, Starfire got him in a bearhug.
But, before they knew it, a new tear opened and it was time for them to leave.
"Be good to one another," Rachael said and stepped through. Edward took a last look around the Tower before he also stepped through the tear and returned to his second home.