#damiare

Fanart commission that I did few months ago, Damirae

I’m not in the mood but want to Celebrating 1k on twitter so I share the full color uncensored drawing pls enjoy https://privatter.net/i/6126562

Raven’s POV:

“We lost 31% of the earth’s molten core, there is nothing we can do,” Batman explained to Diana and Clark.

I look over to Damian, who is sitting next to me. His eyes meet mine, and I lean forward for a kiss. When our lips touched, I felt everything that I have been longing to feel for the past two years. I felt loved and no longer alone.

The flash stands up and moves over to Batman and the others. I pull apart from Damian, and we both walk over to the conversation.

“If I just make another flashpoint, we could reverse this.” The flash pleads his case.

“No, that is far too dangerous.” Constantine steps in. “You could just make another timeline that is ten times worse.”

“I don’t see any other way.” The flash looks at us all. “Do any of you have a better idea?”

There was silence and all you could hear was the wind blowing past us. Soon the earth will grow cold and those who were left on it would surely die. I turn to Damian. I observed his face and I can tell he had no further plan. He looks over at me.

“What?” He whispers.

“I have too,” I mumble. I stand to my feet, but Damian grabs my hand.

“What are you doing?”

“I have a plan,” I say, just loud enough for the others to hear me.

“And what is it?” Constantine looks as if thinking what I was about to say wouldn’t work. He could at least give me a shot.

“You’re going to have to trust me.” I look at each and every one of them.

Diana steps forward. “I believe in you.” She put a hand on my shoulder and I turned to see her face. She nodded at me and I nodded to her.

Then I stepped away into an open area.

“Raven, wait!” Damian steps in front of me. “What are you doing?”

I put my hand on his cheek and for a second he rests his head on it, then he backs away enough to look me in the eyes. “I love you.”

I kissed him, holding onto his head, wanting to forever remember this moment. I don’t know if this will work, but something inside of me is calling for me to do this. A voice in my head that used to say ‘destroy the world is now saying 'save it.’

One thing I have learned in the Teen Titans is that no matter the sins of people, they are all worth saving. The world is worth saving. Damian is worth saving.

I break our kiss and take one last look at him. I step back and levitate to the sky, not looking away from Damian. When I got to the highest I could go, I looked around. The world was in shambles now. Torn up and destroyed by the need for power.

I took one more look down at the people that I have grown to call my family. Clark saved me from… well me, Starfire who is like a sister to me and who guided me for many years. Dick taught me to fight and hold my ground. Damian made me feel like anything was possible. I needed to save them.

I took a deep breath.

“Azarath, Metrion, Zinthos!” Heal the earth. “Azarath, Metrion, Zinthos!” Heal those that are injured. “Azarath, Metrion, Zinthos!” Bring back those we have lost. “Azarath, Metrion, Zinthos!” Bring those who died, back to life. “Azarath, Metrion, Zinthos!” Heal those who have been taken for machines. “Azarath, Metrion, Zinthos!” In the name of love!

Then my world goes dark.

******

Damian’s POV:

I looked at her. I watched as she slipped from my fingers and ascended to the sky, almost as if she was ascending to Heaven. She wasn’t looking at us anymore, but to the world and the damage that was done.

I didn’t know what she was doing, but I could only pray that it would work. She made it seem like goodbye, but I won’t let this be the end. I didn’t die and be brought back for her to die.

Father steps to my side and watches the sky along with all the others. Dick is in Kori’s lap, and she is stroking his hair. The moment they saw each other, Greyson had recognized her. Father places a hand on my shoulder, bring my gaze back to the sky.

There is a flash of purple, but instead of her black raven appearing around her, she is surrounded by a white one. It was almost breathtaking to watch and I even heard a few gasps from behind me, but I didn’t take my eyes away from her.

Then there was a flash of white that consumed the sky.

For a moment the world would not come into focus. All around, it looked fuzzy. And then it became clear. I looked over at Starfire and Dick, and they were hugging each other. Starfire’s robotic parts were at her feet and she looked as she did two years ago. Dick stood up from the ground and they hugged. It seemed like there was no linger of the effect of the Lazerous pit.

I turned around and was shocked. Robotic pieces were on the ground as the people they belonged to embraced each other in their original forms. Diana was being helped up by Clark, and Batman stood from the ground, no longer in Dark Side’s uniform. Raven did it.

Raven!

I looked to the spot she last was, but she was, falling. I rushed to catch her, holding my arms out for her. She crashed on top of me. She was on my stomach. I sat up.

“Raven!” I grabbed her face and turned it towards me, but she did not move. I tested her vitals. She was weak, but she was alive.

“Raven.” Kori came over and reached for Raven’s arm.

“She is alive, but her pulse is weak,” I say, not looking away from the girl in my lap.

Soon a crowd of people came around us. All asking different questions, like if she was okay or if she was alive. I stood up with her in my arms and turned to the crowd of people who all had worried looks. Clark tried to reach for her, but I did let her go. I was never letting her go again.

“She is alive but in need of medical attention.” I turn to Father. “Father, we have to get her somewhere where she can rest.” He nodded.

“Bring her to the Batcave. I will tell Alfred you are on the way.” Dick came over and placed a hand on my shoulder. He put his other on her arm and checked her vitals. “She is getting stronger.”

Just as he said that Raven’s eyes flew open. Her amethyst eyes found mine. “Damian.” Her voice was hoarse, but she smiled at me.

“Don’t speak. Save your energy.” I hushed her. “We will get you somewhere safe.”

“Did it work?” She asked, looking around at everyone.

“According to my records our molten core is in tacts and the earth’s population was restored to the number it was before Dark Side’s attach.” Father read off his screen. “I am not sure how you did it, but you did. Very good work, Raven.” Father nodded to her.

“Zatanna?” Constantine asked.

“Constantine.” Zatanna’s voice called through the crowd. She stood with a portal open as other Justice League members flooded out.

Raven smiled, and then she turned to me. “I saved you twice today.”

“Yes, you did.”

*******

Raven’s POV:

“Raven?” A voice pulls me from my rest.

“What?” I open my eyes, confused.

“You fell asleep.” Damian brushes his hand on my cheek.

“I didn’t mean to,” I say, trying to sit up.

“No, it’s okay.” He smiled and helped me up. “I was just worried for a moment. Go back to sleep. The car is here and I will take you somewhere safe.” He said. I noticed that I was still in his arms.

“I can walk.” I am not sure if it is true or not, but I didn’t want him to know that.

“I will carry you anyways.” He smiled down at me. My heartfelt warm and tingly, and honestly, I felt like I could curl up into him and sleep forever.

Damian helped me into the seat of the car, putting me in the passenger seat. Then he put the seat belt around me. I gave him a look, telling him I could have done that on my own, but he ignored it.

Damian slid into the driver’s seat of the car, but his father came over before he could start the engine. “Drive her right back to the cave. I will be there when I can.”

“I will, Father.” Damian blew off his father’s words.

His father hesitated but stepped away, and Damian started the car, and then sped off. I grabbed the handle above my head, making Damian turn to me.

“Please slow down,” I begged.

Damian turned to me, and when he saw that I wasn’t kidding, he slowed to almost the speed limit. “Are you alright?”

“I am really light-headed.” I close my eyes, trying to focus on breathing. I turned back to look at Damian who looking worried. “But I will be fine.”

He holds out his hand and I take it. I close my eyes again and take deep breaths. He squeezes my hand and says, “if you puke… you will have to clean it up.” He says, making me laugh.

   ____

Back at the Batcave

Well even though the ride wasn’t too terribly long, it turned out I will be known as the first person to throw up in the Batmobile. Damian started to speed a little more when I got sick, but he only made it worse.

“I am sorry,” I tell him as he helps me out. “I really am.”

“It was a joke, I swear. You are fine.” He scoops me up into his arms and carries me away from the car.

“I’m sorry,” I say as he lays me down on a bed.

“Please stop saying that. It is fine. I will clean it up, but you have to get better. Do what they tell you so you get better. Stop worrying. ” He paused and looked at me. “Please.”

I smile at him and reach for his face. When I touch his cheek, he smiles and leans into my touch. All of a sudden my bed becomes occupied by another guest. I sit up a bit to see Titus resting at my feet.

“Titus will stay with you and make sure you don’t get out of bed.” Damian nodded as if making the plan up as he went.

I didn’t argue, and then Damian left to go clean up. I fell asleep with Titus’ head, resting on my legs.

Damian

“What happened?” Batman came in, immediately sitting down at his computer.

I was cleaning up the Batmobile, from the earlier mess that I had made. I should not have sped so much. Then maybe she would not have gotten sick. “I was speeding to get back here, and Raven became ill,” I explained.

My father turned around to look at me. “Damian, you should not have sped. She probably is tired and easily susceptible to motion sickness.”

“Father, I thought it best we got here as soon as possible, but I admit it was a mistake.” I bowed my head.

“So is she the one you were talking about?” He looked at me.

I stayed quiet, unsure of what he was talking about.

“When you said 'save them, save 'her’ you meant Rachel Roth?” Father said, trying to piece together the puzzle.

“Father now is not the time or place to be discussing this.” I pick up the rag I was using to clean the car and put them in a garbage bag I was using. I stood up and he turned back to his bat computer.

“Her vitals are returning, but she will need rest. I fear this has taken a great deal of energy.” Father says as I go over to the panel on the wall and check the camera in her room. She is sleeping, but so is Titus. So much for a guard dog.

“We must give her time.” I nod and turn to Father.

*****

Raven’s POV:

I woke up in the complete dark. I wasn’t sure of the time, and when I pulled out my phone it was dead. Titus stirred and started towards the door. I opened it for him and followed him out. I hadn’t noticed at first, but there was a sleeping body on the ground.

I knelt to his side and put a hand on his shoulder to wake him.

“Damian,” I whispered.

His eyes shot open and he scanned the room. He stood up so fast that I was almost knocked over in surprise. He turned his head back and forth and soon his eyes landed on me with worry.

“What’s wrong? What happened.” He grabbed my arms and looked around.

“Damian.” I smiled. He was so worried that it was hilarious to watch. I grabbed his arm and made him look at me. “Damian, I am fine.”

He looked me over and then sighed.

“What’s going on, why are you sleeping outside the door?” I reached up and put a hand to his face, gently.

“Nothing. I was just making sure you were alright.” He looked at me with those emerald eyes. “Why are you up, you should be resting?”

“I wanted to get something to eat.”

“Well then let us go upstairs and get you some food. What is it that you are hungry for?” He offered me his arm to take.

I took it and looked up at him. “Cereal.”

“Cereal? It’s almost midnight.” He checked his watch and showed it to me.

“I just want cereal.” I shrugged.

He sighed with a smile on his face. “Fine.” He leads me up the stairs and to the kitchen area.

I sat down at the table while Damian went over to the cupboard and grabbed all the cereal brands they had. He set them down and grabbed the bowls and spoons and a gallon of milk. He set them on the table and I grabbed what I wanted. He did the same.

I took a spoon full of cereal and scooped it into my mouth and smiled at Damian.

“Cute.” He said, nodding at me, and then he took a bite of his cereal.

We ate our cereal in silence, only hearing the noises of ourselves chewing. I got seconds on my bowl, while Damian stopped after one. He watched me eat for a few minutes before his gaze started to annoy me.

“I am sorry that I eat cereal in a different way.” I turned to him. “I am hungry.”

He chuckles and leans back into his chair. “I don’t think you eat strangely, but I think it is funny to see you stuff your face.” He smiles at me.

“Excuse me for using all my energy to save the world.” I joke.

“You are right, you deserve to eat as much cereal as you would like.” Damian bowed his head in acceptance, but when his head turned up he had an evil look in his eyes.

“What?”

“Nothing.” He leaned back, not losing eye contact.

“Damian, you have that look in your eye.” I point at him.

“What look?” He plays innocent.

“That mischievous look that tells me you have a plan that is not going to end well.” I lean back to get a better look at him.

“I have no look.” He teases.

“Yes, you do,” I argue.

“No…” He was about to argue when we were interrupted.

“What are you fighting over?” Bruce Wayne walked into the room. I have never seen Batman out of his bat costume and it was shocking to see him standing before us.

“Father, we are sorry if we woke you.” Damian stood and took our dishes to the sink.

“I was already awake.” He sat down at the table. He turned to me and asked, “How do you feel?”

“I am better.” I gave a weak smile.

“That is good.” He nodded. “Now what was this about a 'look’?”

Damian sat in the chair beside me. I looked at him to see if he would explain it to his father or not. When it seemed like he wasn’t going to answer I turned back to Batman and explained.

“I believe your son has a look that he gives when he has a plan that he knows you won’t like,” I explain.

“Oh, that look.” Batman nods.

I turn to Damian with a triumphant look. “See, even your father knows of this look.”

Damian turned back to me with a smile. “Fine, you win.” He put his hands up in surrender.

“How is everyone, Batman?” I turned to the man sitting across from us.

“Everyone has been informed of the events over the past few years and the Justice League plans to hold an official press meeting in the next day or so to go over the details.” He pulled out his phone from his pocket and set it on the table. “And please, call me Bruce.”

“Well Bruce,” It sounds strange to say his name. “What are you going to tell them?”

He looked at me. “We are going to tell them the events of the past few years and explain the treatment, and we plan to have you there by our side. That is if you are well enough.” He gestured to me.

“Why me?” I questioned.

“You are the one who saved the world.” He looked to his son and then back at me. “The world has been wanting to meet you.”

“I don’t know.” I sank into my seat a bit.

“That reminds me. Lois and Clarke are coming tomorrow to see you. I had to send them home twice while you were asleep.” Bruce stood. “Raven, please feel at home here.” He said before he walked out.

I turned to Damian who was looking down at the table, scowling.

“Damian?”

“What?” He looked at me and his eyes soften.

“What is a matter?” I turn my body towards his.

“You don’t have to go to the press release. I told my father that you would need more time.” He shook his head.

“Damian, it is fine. If I feel up to it, I would like to go. I want to.” I put a hand on his.

“Okay.” He hesitated before standing. He gave me his arm and we walked the lengths of the manor together. I wasn’t really sure where he was taking me until we reached a door.

“You don’t need to sleep in the bat cave.” He explained to me and opened the door to a bedroom “You can stay here in my room.”

“Your room?”

“If you don’t feel comfortable, I can sleep elsewhere.” He said, allowing me to walk in.

I stepped in and Damian followed. I sat on the bed and looked at him. “You can stay here,” I said, wanting for him to stay here. I almost begged him not to leave.

“Alright.” He nodded. “I have some clothes you can wear.”

He went over to his dresser and pulled out a hoody and basketball shorts. He handed them to me. I took them and went to the bathroom attached to the room and changed. When I got out Damian had changed into shorts and a t-shirt as well.

I slid under the covers and looked at him. He turned off the lights and made his way to the bed with only the lamp beside the bed for light.

“Good night Rachel.” He said after he had turned off the lamp, leaving us in the dark.

“Good night.”

******

Next Day

There was a knock on the door. I opened my eyes only to be flooded with light. I buried my head under the covers, blocking out the morning. The person next to me stirred and went to the door, opening it just a crack.

“Morning Master Damian.” Alfred greeted behind the door. “Your father is worried that Miss Roth has run off this morning, but I have come to ask if you know where she might be.”

“Alfred don’t be coy.” Damian shook his head. “I am sure by the tone in your voice, you know she is with me.”

“I had a hunch.” There was amusement in Alfred’s tone. “I will inform your father that I have found Miss Roth. Please join us downstairs, we have some visitors.” He said just about to close the door. “Morning Miss Roth.”

Damian forcefully closed the door and grumbled back to bed. He slid under the covers and his arms wrapped around my waist. I smiled and took the covers off my head and wiggled around so I could see him.

“Morning.”

“Morning,” Damian grumbled into the sheets.

“I think we need to go downstairs,” I say, trying to free myself from Damian’s grasp.

Damian has always been stronger than me, so his hold on me was firm. He was gentle not to hurt me, but his arms were not budging. I turned back to look at him when I gave up trying to get out of his grip.

“Damian…” I warned.

“Five more minutes.” He grumbled again.

“You are normally a morning person, why are you like this?” I say, trying to break free again.

“Because for the first time in two years the world is not in danger and I am in bed with you. I want to keep it that way.” He growled into my ear, seductively.

This sent shivers down my spine. A smile spread across my face and I leaned back into Damian’s grasp. He was right. For the first time, we have been able to be just us without the fear of the world ending or father trying to kill him.

I sighed and then broke away from his hold. I stood up and looked down at Damian who was looking up at me from the sheets of the bed. He did not seem too happy.

“Damian, once we go downstairs and make ourselves known, we can come back up here. I am hungry and want to eat before I fall back asleep.” I said, pulling at his arm to get him out of bed. He didn’t move.

After a moment I dropped his arm and stepped back. He grumbled “fine.” And got to his feet. He went into the bathroom to change into some different clothes I did a simple spell to change close into a shirt and pants.

When Damian came out his hair was wet and he smelled like aftershave. I smiled and walked over to him. I hugged him around his chest, taking in a breath. His arms wrapped around me as he continued to pull socks out of his drawer.

When we were both done getting ready we headed out the door and right downstairs to the kitchen. Alfred was at the counter with a stack of pancakes beside him. When I stepped in closer I noticed Bruce, Clark, and Lois all setting at the table. Damian walked over to the table and sat down.

Lois looked up and her eyes brightened when she saw me. She stood to her feet and practically ran to me. She embraced me and then I hear a chair crash to the ground and Clark got in the hug.

“I am so glad you are okay,” Lois said into my ear. She held me so tight it was hard to breathe.

“Raven, how are you?” Clark asked, not letting go of me or Lois.

“I am fine,” I said, embracing them.

In the past two years, I have grown close to Clark and Lois. Clark saved me from making a huge mistake and ending my life and Lois and Clark took care of me when I grew sick from my father’s wrath.

They had become like a family to me. It was nice to be around them again.

Lois realized me and Clark and she stood back to look me over. They looked at me with concerned eyes, but I smiled.

“I am fine,” I assured them.

Lois enveloped her hand in mine and led me back to the table. She made me sit in the seat that Clark was sitting in before, but he didn’t seem to mind. He went and sat beside Bruce.

“You did it,” Lois whispered in my ear when she sat down.

“What?” Whispered back to her.

“You saved the world.” She smiled at me proudly. “I knew from the moment Clark brought you home that you were destined for great things.”

I smiled. She had told me that a lot throughout our time spent together. She and Clark believed in me when I had lost hope in myself.

Alfred brought over a plate for me and Damian, who was now seated across from me. Alfred smiled at me when he handed me the plate. I couldn’t help but blush.

“Raven, are you feeling better? The past few days we have come they told us you were asleep?” Clark turned to me.

“I am better.” I nod and take a bite of my pancake.

“Glad to hear.” He nodded. “Has Bruce filled you in on the press conference?”

“He said that the Justice League will hold one and that they would like me there,” I said after I swallowed my food.

“And do you feel up to it?” Lois asked me in a concerned tone.

“It should be fine for me to go,” I answered her.

She smiled at me and grabbed my hand that was resting on the table and gave it a squeeze. I looked at her and she had nothing but love in her eyes. I looked to Clark and he was just the same.

“I don’t think Bruce has told you yet, but the Teen Titans have decided to take a season off and most of them are going home to family,” Lois said, making me turn back to look at her. “And I know that the only family you had here was your father, and now he is gone.”

I wasn’t sure where she was going with this. Lois nervously turned to Clark and when I turned to him he just nodded with a smile on his face.

“We were wondering if you would like to come home with us.” Lois turned back to me.

I looked at her in shock. She wanted me to come live with them? Clark and Lois were asking me to come to stay with them for the while the Teen Titans were away.

“What?” I said, not sure I understood all of this.

“Come stay with us, Rachel,” Clark said across the table.

“What do you say?” Lois said in a cheerful tone.

“I…” I didn’t know what to say. I have never felt more welcome.

“Father, surely she would be better staying with us.” Damian’s gloomy tone made me turn to him. He was upset and glaring daggers at his father.

“If Rachel would like to go with the Kent’s then she is the one to make that decision,” Bruce said sternly. “But, she should stay here for a few more days while we track her vitals and such.”

“So what do you say?” Lois asked again.

I looked at Clark and Lois and then at Damian. For the past two years, the Kent’s have held me together and given me love that no family has ever. I knew what I was going to choose, but I only wished Damian wouldn’t hate me.

“Yes,” I said, turning back to Lois. “When the press conference is over, I would like to come home with you and Clark.”

Damian stood up and stomped out of the room. I winced at his footsteps but I knew what I wanted to do. Damian and I are just starting something, but I knew that I wanted to be with Kent’s

“When we go back to Metropolis, I would like to introduce you as my daughter,” Clark spoke up.

“Your daughter?” I turned back and forth at Lois and Clark to see if this was real.

“You are family and if these past two years prove anything, it is that you are a Kent.” Lois squeezed my hand again. “Even if you are not by blood, you are.”

“Thank you, guys.” I smiled at the two of them.

“Rachel, would you mind if Clark, Lois, and I have the room?” Bruce spoke up. “We have a few matters with the press conference that need to be finalized.”

I nodded and stood up. I left the room quietly, still smiling. I couldn’t believe this. I didn’t think about what would happen when I woke up. Clark and Lois took care of me for all these years, and I just thought when all of this was over they would lead their own lives, but now they want me to join them? I was happily surprised.

I was walked back to Damian’s room. I didn’t know how I was going to explain this all to him and I knew by the way he reacted he would not be happy, but I wanted to explain this all to him.

I knocked on the door.

Nothing.

I knocked again and this time when nothing happened I turned the nob. Damian was sitting at his desk in his room, writing something. I walked over to him and waited for him to finish. When he set the pen down I spun his chair to look at me and sat on the bed.

“Damian, I am going.” I start.

His eyes were murderous.

“I love you.” I put my hand on his. “I would stay with you forever, but over the past two years… It was the Kent’s that took care of me.”

I let go of his hand and put it in my lap. I looked down at my hands, not wanting to face Damian.

“I wanted to die. I mean it. I wanted it to be over. If I killed myself, Father would have never been freed and you would have been safe.” I toy with my hands. “And I couldn’t be with you because of it.”

It was hard telling Damian this. I never admitted this to anyone before.

“When Clark showed up and took me in, he and Lois gave me something that I needed. Hope.” I glance up and then quickly back down. Damian was staring at me like hot lasers. “They gave me a home and made me feel loved.”

They were the parents I never had.

“I am going with them because they have become my family. Like the Titans, but with a stronger bond.” A tear slipped. “I love you and this doesn’t mean I don’t. Just because I am leaving doesn’t mean I am leaving you.” I looked up at him, finding my courage. “I will portal here to see you whenever, but I need to do this.”

Damian was silent for a second and I let my head drop. Maybe he didn’t believe me or didn’t want to hear this, but it needed to be said.

I felt his hand reach my face and I looked up to him.

“I love you.” He said in almost a whisper. “And though I will hate having you far away, I understand.” He nodded. “But I tell you this. I will gain your love enough one day to be considered the only family you will ever need.” He said in a wild tone. “And on that day, you will be my wife.”

His words were wild and truthful. I knew he meant this as a promise to me and it warmed my heart. I smiled at him as he whipped a tear from my face.

“We can portal to see each other and spend the nights.” He grinned at me. “But for now, if this is where you want to be, then I will not fight.”

I smiled at him.

“I love you,” I said, meaning it with all my heart.

“And I love you.” He smiled and pulled me in for a kiss.

Raven’s POV:

Sitting in my chair, reading my new book The Princess Bride, I was sipping tea in the living room of the Titan Tower. Lucky for me Titus was sitting on my lap. I was petting him while reading.

Titus’ head raised, making me look up.

“Raven, oh am I happy to see you.” Kori came over and sat at the other end of the couch.

“Kori.” I set my book down and looked at her.

“We have exciting news!” She beamed. “Bruce Wayne has just invited us all to the famous Wayne Galla!”

“A Galla?”

“Yes. Dick just brought the invitation.” Kori handed me a letter. I didn’t need to look at it.

“Kori, I am not much of a "Galla” person.“ I hand her back the letter.

"It is not a negotiation. It is another mandatory event, Raven.” She handed me back the letter. “Raven you and I are the only girls. We need to get our dresses!”

I groan. “Kori I am not one for fancy dresses and what not.”

“Nonsense.” She grabbed my hand, pulling me off the couch. Titus stirred and looked at me with his head tilted. “Come now. The ball is in one week.”

“Are we going shopping now?” I said as she pulled me out of the room and down the hall.

“What a wonderful idea.” She pulled me down to the Titan garage and into a car. “I know of this place that sells beautiful dresses.”

“And what about patrol?” I had to be on patrol in twenty minutes.

“Dick has taken your shift.” She said as we pulled out of the garage. “I believe you had shift with Damian, no?”

“Yes.” I said slightly embarrassed. Why was I embarrassed? It was only patrol.

“Then Dick will inform Damian of the change when they meet for patrol.” Kori said pulling out of the driveway.

It was a fifteen minute drive to where ever Kori was taking me. I sat silently in the car, listening to her go on about what we all needed.

“Oh and we have to make sure we get makeup.” She said as she parked. “Dick said that the night before we will be set up in rooms, and that day we will use to get ready.”

“The whole day just to get ready?” I got out of the car. “Doesn’t that seem a little much?”

“The Galla starts at one in the afternoon and last almost the whole day.” She smiled and locked the car. “So we have to get up and get our hair and makeup done and then get dressed.”

“That just seems a little excessive.” I shrug and follow her into a store.

Right when I walked in, we were surrounded by dresses. They were all different colors. They were so bright and so… unlike me.

I sighed and looked at Kori. She smiled and walked over to a rack of dresses, already looking over some choices. I went over beside her and started to look at some of them.

“Hello, welcome to Barnes. Is this your first time shopping here?” A lady walked up to us.

“Oh yes, my friend and I are looking for nice dresses for a Galla.” Kori smiled at her.

“Oh how wonderful.” She stepped closer. Turning to Kori she looked right at her. “I think I have the perfect dress for you.”

Kori followed the lady over to another rack as the lady pulled out a pink dress. Kori smiled so bright that it was hard to look at her in Thai state.

“This is just stunning!” Kori grabbed the dress and turned to me. “Rachel, I am going to try this on. Go look for a dress for yourself.”

The same lady from before came over to me. “I can see that your not a bright colored person like your friend.” She smiled at me.

I nodded.

“Well, I might just have something for you.” She started walking to the back of the store. I followed her. “I just got this dress in and it is absolutely stunning.”

She gestured me to follow her into the way back of the store. I walked into the doors and followed her farther back.

She stopped short and moved to the side so I could see the dress. It was a stunning sleeveless dress that was a dark blue that it almost looked black. There were silver accents on the top, and the dress had a sheer fabric with a shimmer to it.

It was stunning.

“It was a mistake. We ordered it in a perl color, but it came in the gorgeous dark blue. But because we didn’t order it, well it’s half off.” She smiled. “So, how about we go try it on?”

I nodded as she grabbed the dress and brought me to the dressing room. She handed me the dress and left me to get changed.

Putting on the dress felt like a sin itself. It was a soft material that was light. It had a slit in the leg that revealed my leg, but I didn’t mind.

When I had the dress on, I looked at myself in the mirror. It fit me perfectly and made me feel confident. I stepped out just as Kori did.

“Oh my goodness.” She looked me over. “You’re …stunning.” She said, making me blush. “That dress is so you.”

“Thank you.” I looked down. “And your dress is amazing.”

“You think?” She twirled.

“Yes.”

“The. It seems like we don’t need to try on any more dresses. We have found ours.” She smiled at me.

“Yes.” I nodded at her. I went back into my dressing room and looked at myself in the mirror. I didn’t want to take the dress off. I am not the type of girl to wear dresses, but this was stunning.

When I got dressed into my normal clothes, I put the dress back on the hanger and made sure not to wrinkle it. I walked out and met a smiling Kori.

“Dick has given me a credit card to pay for these.” She said as we walked to the counter.

“So did you like it?” The lady before asked me as she went behind the counter.

“Oh yes.” Kori said while she put her dress on the counter.

“Yes.” I answered the lady and put my dress on the counter.

“Well lucky for you both the dresses are both on sale.” She said as she scanned the tags.

“Wonderful.” Kori handed over the credit card. “These are going to be perfect for the Galla!”

“Well, enjoy.” The lady handed over the dresses in nice bags. “Come back soon!”

We walked out with our dresses. Kori was grinning from ear to ear and I had a small smile on my face as well. I had to admit, today was much better than I had thought it would be.

“Well, next we need shoes and makeup!” Kori said as we got into the car.

After about two hours of shoe shopping and makeup tests we finally had everything that we needed. I got simple shoes and makeup that made it look like I wasn’t wearing any at all. I don’t like to wear makeup.

My feet were killing me by the time we got into the car. Kori was still giddy with excitement, but I could tell she was getting tired as well.

It was a short ride home where Kori was complementing our outfits and accessories. She was so happy that I didn’t mind hearing her all the way home.

When we got home I grabbed my bags and brought them to my room. I put the dress in my closet so it would not get wrinkled. Then there was a knock on my door.

I went over to the door and opened it up. “Damian?”

Damian walked into my room. “Where did you go? We had patrol?”

“Sorry, Kori took me shopping for the Galla. As you know I didn’t have a choice.” I sat on my bed and pulled out the shoes that I just bought. “Did something happen?” Damian was unreadable.

“No.”

“Okay then, is there something you needed?” I set the shoes on my bed.

“I was just wondering where you were.” He leaned back on my desk. “I had patrol with Dick.”

“I bet that was fun.” I said sarcastically.

“So much.” Damian rolled his eyes.

“I am sorry I didn’t warn you.” I gave a small smile. “You know when Kori has an idea you just have to go with it.”

Damian nodded.

We starred at each other in silence for a minute before Damian stood up straight and bowed his head at me. Then he left, closing the door behind him.

*****

Six days later

Tomorrow was the Galla and everyone in the tower was packing for the event. The boys had gone out a few days ago and bought their tuxes. I was in my room, packing the last of my clothes. We had to pack for tonight, the Galla and the day after.

“Are you almost ready?” Kori knocked on my door and came in.

“Almost.” I said, walking over to my bathroom and grabbing the bag of makeup and my personal bag.

Kori watched as I got everything into my suit case. When I was finished I turned to Kori and levitated my bag off the bed. “Portal?” I asked.

She nodded.

I conjured up a portal to the car and we stepped through with our luggage. We beat most of the boys downstairs and Kori lifted both of our luggages into the back of the car and waited for the others to come. Dick was taking a few of the boys and I was riding with Kori and Jaime.

“Let’s get this party on the road!” Garth shouted as he pulled his luggage with him. It must have been heavy because he was in gorilla form.

“Garth, you are riding with Dick.” Kori told him. Garth brought his suit case to Dick’s car.

I am not sure where Dick is, because he is not out here at this time. “Maybe he is getting something from inside.” I thought. Just as I finished the thought, Jaime and Damian came out followed by Dick.

“Now that we have everyone, let’s load into the cars.” Dick said in a tone I couldn’t quite understand.

“You know it would be much faster if I took my bike.” Damian grumbled to his brother.

“And it would also be faster is Raven teleported us all there, but that is not going to happen.” Dick told Damian as he walked over to his car. “We were given instructions to drive.”

Damian huffed as he put his bag in the car.

I went to the passenger seat, as Kori climbed into the drivers. We waited for Dick to go first, because we planned on following him, but not even five seconds later Damian got out of the car and came to ours.

“May I travel in your car?” He asked Kori when her window was down. “I know the directions.”

“Yes you may.” Kori nodded and unlocked the door for Damian.

Jaime was already in the far back with a movie playing on his phone. He only nodded as Damian climbed into the car. I turned to look at Damian, but he was scowling out the window. I turned back to face the windshield.

“Damian, how is your training doing?” Kori asked as she drove out of the driveway. “I have seen your improvement, but how do you feel you are doing?”

Kori means well and is trying to start a conversation, but I can sense that Damian is still in a fowl mood. Just when I thought Damian wouldn’t answer he mumbled.

“I could be better.” I looked behind at him, and he was looking at me. “Koriand'r, it’s the next turn. On the left.”

I turned back in my seat and watched as Kori took the turn as instructed. She didn’t seem to notice Damian’s mood or wasn’t caring, because she went on making conversation. “Dick tells me that you are quite good for your age. He fears that you will surpass him.”

I turned to gage Damian’s reaction, only to see a small smirk growing on Damian’s face. Damian has always claimed to be the best Robin, but hearing this from the girl that is dating a past Robin probably made him feel superior.

“It’s only a matter of time.” Damian nodded.

“Rachel, how are you fairing with online school?” Kori turned her head to look at me and then back at the road.

“It’s fine.” I mumble. Truth was I hated it. I hated not being able to be in a classroom and hated always having to converse with a teacher over email.

“All ‘A’s?” Kori questioned.

“Yes.” Even though I hated school, I was taught at a young age by the best demons so school did come rather easy to me. School was just one of those things the Justice League thought we needed, but I didn’t really.

“That’s good to hear.” She smiled.

Then there was silence. It lasted for a long time, but I didn’t have anything to say or add, so we just road along in silence. I watched the landmarks we passed and counted the dead animals I saw along the way.

One thing I always hated about road trips are seeing the road kill. Father would think I am weak for having sympathy towards the dead animals, but I couldn’t help it. No matter the sins of the world, these animals were just trying to live their lives, and are killing by humans who did not slow for them.

“Rachel, what seems to be on your mind?” Kori asked, pulling me from my thoughts.

“Nothing.” I lie. Kori would go into this who story about how it was a way of life for the animals and how they were in a better place now, but I didn’t want to hear it.

“Damian, are we getting close?” Jaime said, pulling himself away from his phone for a second.

“Twenty-four minutes and we will be there.” Damian said, making me turn back and look at him.

“That is a very specific time frame.” I said, trying to avoid Kori’s worried looks towards me.

“I live there. I know how far away the manor is.” Damian said like it was obvious.

“What are the plans when we get there, Damian?” Kori looked at him through the rearview mirror.

“You will be shown your rooms. Then have about an hour too unpack and we will all come together for supper at approximately seven o'clock.” Damian said without thinking about it.

I nodded and looked out the window. Before us was a 'Welcome to Gotham’ sign that was covered in graffiti. I had heard many things about Gotham and how it has a run down area with a lot of crime. No wonder the bat family has resided in this town.

Time passed as we drove deeper into the heart of the city. There was sky scrapers and shiny building surrounding us, and it almost looked like the streets of Star City, except for the bat symbols that were painted on the street corners.

“What do they mean?” I turned to Damian.

“It means Batman will protect this area and not to mess around.” Damian grumbled and looked out the window. He didn’t seem happy to be back home. “The next right, Koriand'r.” Damian instructed.

I watched out the window at the citizens that were walking with a purpose. I had seen this before when my father was tyrant of hell. These people had fear motivating their movements. It was sad. I could feel their fear. This whole town was engulfed in it.

“Jaime, Rachel, I don’t think I need to remind you, but I will…” Kori started. “Be on your best behaviors. We were asked here as guests.”

I nodded and Jaime mumbled a response. Damian said nothing, he only looked out at the buildings and the people. To my right there was a huge building. It had the name Wayne on it. That must be the famous Wayne enterprise that funds the Titans.

It was a huge building, all black with shiny glass and big bold letters on it. Honestly if there was ever a building that would scare you, this would be it. I gulped as we passed it.

It was only a few more minutes before we pulled out of the city and were in a long stretch of land that only had trees and grass on it. Kori explained that this was all part of the Wayne manor. It was hard to believe because the land stretched far, but soon enough there was a huge mansion in front of us.

When Kori pulled too a stop, Damian jumped out of the car and opened the back up before she could even pull the key. He grabbed his bag and went into the house. As soon as he stepped through the doors another, older, man stepped out.

I got out of the car and grabbed my bag from the pile as Kori grabbed hers. I levitated my luggage over to the man.

“Hello.” I said, nodding to him.

“Hello, I am Alfred Pennyworth.” He nodded to me. “Might I help you with your bag Miss Roth.”

“Rachel, please. And I have got it, but thank you.” I said, showing him the levitating bag.

“Very well, Rachel.” He nodded.

We waited for the others to come along, and slowly we all huddled around Alfred. “Master Bruce is on a call, but once he is done he will address you all. For now I will show you to your rooms.”

We followed him into the house and up the stairs to the second floor. He showed everyone their rooms, one by one, and then when it came time for mine and Kori’s room we went across the hall.

“Ladies, you will have the rooms on this side of the hall. Tomorrow when you are getting ready, food will be brought to you so you can get prepared.” He nodded to a room. “This is yours Koriand'r.”

Kori opened the door and walked in with her bags. I followed Alfred a few more steps down the hall and on the same side he showed me to the next room.

“I have been informed that you enjoy reading and gardens,  Rachel.” He opened the door for me and allowed me to step in. “If you were to go down at the end of the hall and to your right there is a library. And if you went down that same hall and to your left, that stairs will lead you down to our garden outside.”

I set my bag on the bed. “Thank you Alfred.” I gave him a small smile. “I much appreciate the help.”

He nodded and closed the door as he left. I unpacked all my clothes into the dresser and hung my dress up in the closet. There was a small bathroom and when I opened the door, I found that it was attached to Kori’s room. She was already in there putting her makeup on her side of the counter.

“What a pleasant room.” She hummed when she saw me.

“Indeed.” I nodded and set my bag on the counter.

“Once you are all unpacked, we can go downstairs and see if they need any help setting up for supper.” Kori suggested.

Back at the tower Kori would cook the food and I would set the table. I agreed and closed the bathroom door in my room to finished unpacking. I put away my shoes in the corner of the room and spun around to make sure everything looked emasculate.

When I finished I left my room and knocked on Kori’s door. She swung it opened and let me in. “I am almost done, just a few more things.”

Her room looked like a mess. Her dress was laid out on the bed and her shoes were scattered on the floor. It looked like she dumped her suitcase on the ground. She grabbed her phone and assured me out of the room with her.

“Alfred might enjoy some help. Dick tells me he prepares all the meals alone.” Kori said as we walked down the hall.

As we walked into the kitchen we were greeted by Alfred. He was humming away and stirring a pot of something on the stove. “Ladies, is there something you needed?” He asked us.

“No, we are here to help you with dinner preparations.” Kori walked over to the counter. “What might you need help with?”

“My, I don’t usually have people offering to help me.” Alfred’s smile grew. “If you wanted to chop up the celery for me, that would be wonderful.” He said to Kori.

I stepped closer to the two of them, just as Kori went around the corner and grabbed a knife for cutting. “Would you like me to set the table.”

“That would be great. The mats are in the drawer under the photo.” Alfred gestured to a photo. It was a photo of two people. One with dark hair and one with blond. They looked happy. I went over to it and opened to drawers and pulled out the mats.

I set them at each place and once I was done a found the dishes and silverware to go with. I grabbed glasses for each setting and put water in them. At the tower you must have one glass of water before you get any other drink.

Once I was done I went over to the counter again. “Alfred, is there anything else?”

“Why I just about have the soap done.” Kori brought over the celery she cut and Alfred through them in and stirred. “Now it’s complete.”

Kori stood back and smiled. The kitchen smelled just amazing and the soap was already making me hungry. “Alfred, you have outdone yourself.” Kori complemented.

“Yes.” I agreed with her.

“Thank you ladies. Now, I believe it is time to call the house hold down for supper. Please have a seat while I get everyone.” Alfred left the room and Kori and I took our seats at the table.

“What at elegant house.” Kori said, looking around.

“Yes.” I nodded.

Soon Garth came bolting in the room followed by Jaime. They sat across from us. Dick came in next and sat on the other side of Kori with a smile. Alfred was the next to come in and sit at one end of the table.

Damian came in and sat across from me. He nodded at me when he sat down, and I nodded back. Something was off though. I couldn’t quit read him, but something was bothering him. He looked down at the place setting and didn’t look up.

“Hello.” A deep voice greeted us.

I turned away from Damian to a man who sat down at the end of the table. He looked like Damian, but he wasn’t. This was Bruce Wayne. I had seen him so many times on the screen, but never without the mask on.

“Hello.” Kori greeted in a cheerful tone.

“Supper smells good.” Bruce said to Alfred.

“Thanks to the lovely ladies over here.” Alfred nodded to me and Kori. “They helped me in the kitchen.”

Bruce nodded to us. “Well done then ladies.”

“Thanks.” I mumbled as Kori said something along the same lines.

“Well, let’s dig in.” Dick said, picking up his spoon.

Everyone started to eat. It was amazing. The soap practically melted in your mouth and tasted so rich that I almost didn’t want to eat it all. I savored every spoon full, and took my time. So did the others. We ate in almost complete silence, only talking to complement the food.

We all finished out bowls around the same time. “Well, Alfred, that was just amazing.” Kori nodded her thanks to Alfred.

“I am glad you liked it.” He stood up and took his bowl to the sink. I stood and collected my bowl up. “No need Miss, I will get the dishes.”

“No, I will help you.” I argued and brought my bowl over.

Alfred nodded his thanks to me. As people started to finish and push their bowls aside Alfred and I would go and collect them. Alfred went to take Bruces bowl away and I went over to Damian who pushed his aside.

“Can I take that?” I asked him in almost a whisper.

He looked at me with his emerald green eyes and my heart almost flipped. “I will take it.” He stood up and set his bowl in the sink. When he came back over to me he said, “Thanks though.” In a whisper.

Once everyones dishes were in the sink, I went over to the sink and started to fill it with water. Alfred came to me right away. “Now I must stop you here. You have been wonderful, but I must do the dishes. It is what I get paid for miss.”

“Alright.” I gave up and stepped back.

“Thank you though.” He smiled at me. “I don’t always get help around the house.” He glanced over at the table. He must be referring to Dick, Damian and Bruce. I smile in understanding.

I went back to my seat, and listened to the ongoing conversation. “So the guys are helping with final set up?” Garth asked, talking to Bruce.

“If you would like. It is not mandatory to help, but if you find yourself bored, then by all means…” Bruce answered.

“Father, what are the plans for the event?” Damian said in a cold tone.

“The Galla begins at one o'clock.” He nodded to Damian. “You and Dick must be there before to greet the guests. The other Titans may come down when they choose.” He nodded to us all. “For those who are not yet twenty-one, there will be no drinking.” Batman was giving us all a stern look.

Damian leaned back into his seat. “And what if an emergency, we all can not leave at once.”

“Damian, it has been thought of already.” Bruce looked at his son. “We have other on patrol for the night, and we won’t be called into action.”

Damian didn’t seem to happy with this answer but didn’t push any farther. I nodded, understand the plan. Kori and Dick further discussed plans of the party.

“Kori, Rachel, tomorrow you will have all of the morning to get dressed and ready.” Bruces words brought me out of my thoughts. “If you need anything, call Alfred and it will be brought to you.”

“Thank you, Bruce.” Kori said for the both of us.

“Well, I believe that concludes supper. Thank you Alfred.” Bruce stood up. “You all must get your rest for the Galla will take a lot of energy.” With that, Batman left the room.

I stood up and put my placemat back into the drawer where it came from and then left the room. I was going to go back to my room when I remembered what Alfred had told me about the library. “It wouldn’t hurt to take a look” I thought to myself.

I opened the door and to my surprise the room was larger than I thought. There were custom bookshelves on each wall that are just filled with books. I stepped out into the middle of the room and spun around to look at the entirety of the room.

I stepped closer to a book case and saw that there were famous books and books I have never heard of before. Even some books that were just tied together with string. As I looked around I even found a case of scrolls. These place seemed to have everything.

I brushed my hands on the spin of the books, taking in all the titles. Some of the books looked warn, while other looked brand new.

“You found the library.” A voice scared me out of my thoughts. I turned to see Damian step through the doors.

“Yes, Alfred told me about it.” I real a breath I didn’t know I was holding.

“He did?” He took a step closer to me.

“Yes.” I said, gaining more confidence.

“Well, did he show you the gardens?” Damian’s lips twitched up.

“He told me about them, but I haven’t had the chance to see them myself.” I shrugged.

“Would you like to see them?” His left eyebrow came up as if he was planning something evil. “I could show you.”

“I am not sure what you are up to Mr. Wayne…” I joke, “but I do wish to see the gardens myself.”

“I am offended Miss Roth, that you would think of me like that.” Damian put his hand to chest and pretended that he was hurt.

“I did not mean to offend you.” I smile. “Alright, you may show me the gardens.” I walked to his side.

He gave a smirk and then put out his arm for me to take. It was a sort of game now, and I wasn’t prepared to lose. I took his arm and wrapped mine around his. We walked in step out of the library doors and across into a room of stairs.

We walked down the steps, looking ahead. Once we reached the bottom, Damian let go of my arm and opened the door for me. “Miss.” He gestured for me to go through the door. I nodded at him and stepped through.

Once the door closed behind us, he offered me his arm and we walked along side each other in sync. My arm was tangled with his as we walked the path to the garden.

“Father tells me that these flowers were planted from his mother.” Damian explained as I knelt down to smell a pretty purple one. “Alfred had managed to keep the garden alive.”

“How wonderful.” I nod along as we continued to walk.

“Father doesn’t come out here much.” Damian said, turning to look at the garden.

“Do you?”

“Do I what?” He turned back at me. Our eyes locked and we stopped walking.

“Do you come out here?” I starred into his emerald eyes.

“In times when I need quite…” He paused. “Yes.”

“This does seem like a wonderful place to meditate.” I agreed.

“You haven’t even seen the best part.” A smile grew on his perfect face as he guided me to another place in the garden.

He stopped just sort of a bench. Surrounding it was flowers and a willow tree thats branches and leaves covered the bench. It was almost like a wall, keeping out the outside world.

I let go of Damian’s arm and walked over to the bench. I sat down on it, looking around at the pretty flowers. This place felt secluded and almost like a piece if heaven itself. Damian walked through and sat beside me.

“This is perfect.” I said breathlessly.

“I thought you would love it.” Damian said, looking around at the leaves. “Alfred wanted to cut the leaves and open it up, but I told him not too.”

“Is so… wonderful.” I turned to face Damian.

He looked down at me and our eyes met. “I knew that you would see its beauty.”

I didn’t have the words to respond, so I just nodded, starring into his eyes. He leaned back in the bench and starred up at the night sky.

“There is beauty in the quit.” He said without looking away from the stars. I looked up and watched them myself. “I come out here sometimes just to see the stars.”

“I would to if I lived here.” I said into the night sky.

We were silent for a while. No one speaking or moving. We heard each other’s breathing but didn’t say a word. The night sky was so bright and the stars were just calling out to me. I wanted to reach up and touch one, but also didn’t want to disturb the night sky.

After a while my eyes started to grow heavy and I knew sleep was calling. I turned to Damian who was still looking at the night sky.

“Damian?” I said softly, not wanting to disturb him.  

“Hmm?” He hummed to me, looking at me.

“It’s getting late.” I said in a whisper.

“That it is.” He said softly back to me. “You have a busy day tomorrow.”

“So do you.” I smiled.

“Oh but I don’t start getting ready the moment I wake up.” He smiles in a joking tone.

“I don’t see why everyone thinks it will take me that long to get ready.” I huff. “It would take me an hour at most.”

“Father knows nothing of women and guest that would be how long it took you and Kori to get ready.” Damian laughed. His laughter melted something in me.

When his laughter died down I smiled at him. “At least I don’t have to greet guests.”

He turned to me in a less happy tone and said, “Father wishes that of me, so I must.”

“Care to make tomorrow fun?” I gave him a mischievous look.

“How Miss Roth, would you prepose to do that?” He said. I had peaked his interest.

“We could make a wager.” I shrugged with a devilish smile (Not really a devilish smile, because that was my fathers thing). “I bet you that you can’t be nice for the whole Galla.” I said confidently.

“When am I not nice?” Damian pretended to be hurt.

I gave him a look like 'really’. He shrugged. “You have to pretend to want to be there the whole time.”

“So I have to act kind like a true gentleman and and if I can I win?” He asked as if trying to understand the wager.

“Yes.”

“And what do I get when I win?” Damian raised an eyebrow.

“Well IF you win, you can choose you prize, and if I win then I want you to…” I had to think about it. What did I want from this wager? “I want you to…”

I couldn’t think of anything.

“Who ever wins may choose their prize later.” Damian suggested.

“Yes.” I nodded. “If you can be a gentleman the whole night, then yes.”

Damian held out his hand as if making a deal. I shook his hand.

I stood up. “I think I will go off to bed then.” I turned to Damian.

Damian got up and followed me back to the door. As we walked the steps side by side we didn’t say anything to each other. Damian walked me to my door and I stopped just before opening it and turned to him.

“Thank you for tonight.” I said in a soft whisper. I was pretty sure everyone had gone to bed by now.

“It was nothing.” He nodded.

I stepped into my room and closed the door behind me. I heard his footsteps leave after a moment. I sighed out, not sure why I was holding my breath. I got dressed into my night clothes and slid into bed. Sleep took me fast and I was out like a light before I even had a chance to process the bet that was made.

*****

The Next Morning

There was a knock on my door early in the morning. I sat up in bed and when I heard it again, I knew it wasn’t in my dreams. I came to the door and opening it.

“Good morning Miss Roth.” Alfred greeted me with a tray of food. “I have your breakfast.”

I opened the door wider for him to come in. “Thank you, Alfred. You didn’t have to bring me the food. I could have come down and ate it.”

“No sense, you have to get ready this morning, so I thought I would just bring it up to you.” He smiled. “Damian tells me you are a vegetarian like himself, so I made you the same meal as him.”

“Thank you.” I said taking the tray and setting it down on the desk in the room.

“No problem.” He smiled and walked out the door, closing it behind himself.

I lifted the top of the plat to see an omelette. It smelled just delicious and made my mouth water. I sat down at the desk and started in on breakfast. I was almost done when Kori opened the bathroom door to my room and walked in.

“Good morning, Rachel!” She said in an excited tone. “I see you have your breakfast.”

“Morning Kori.” I nodded to her. “How did you sleep?”

“Well. And you?” She came over to me.

“I slept fine.” I said and then took the last bite of my breakfast. “Should I bring my try downstairs?”

“No, just leave it outside your room door. That is what Dick told me.” Kori shrugged.

“I don’t think that is kind. I might just drop this downstairs.” I said standing up with my tray.

“Then I shall bring my tray with.” Kori said and she followed me out the door. When we passed her room she picked up the tray beside her door and carried it down the stairs with me. We walked into the kitchen with it.

Damian, Dick and Bruce where sitting at the table, eating when we walked in.

“Good morning, Ladies.” Batman nodded at us when we stepped in.

“Morning.” Kori smiled.

“Was something wrong with your meal?” Bruce looked at the trays in out hands.

“No. We are just bringing them down for Alfred.” Kori smiled and we walked our trays to the sink and set them in. “You don’t need to do that.” Damian said in his normal cold tone. “Alfred will pick them up.”

“He might, but there is nothing wrong with helping.” I looked right at Damian as I said that. Damian sat back in his chair and nodded.

“You girls going to get ready for the Galla?” Bruce said, looking at Kori.

“Yes.” Kori nodded. “We just wanted to get our trays downstairs.” She turned to Dick and said, “Good luck with getting all the guys ready.”

Apparently Kori and Dick had sectioned off and were in-charge of getting their own people dressed and ready. Kori only had me while Dick was in-charge of all the boys.

“Thanks. I might need it.” Dick joked.

Alfred walked in the room just as he said that. “Well, good morning ladies. How was breakfast?”

“Good.” I nodded my thanks. “We brought our trays down.”

“You didn’t have to do that. I could have go them.” He smile dat Kori and I. “But I thank you. At least there are some people in this house with manners.” He looked over at the table at the guys.

I smiled at that.

“We have manners,” Dick argued.

Kori and I both silently laugh. Even when he stayed at the tower he left his dishes all over.

“Why have help when you have someone else to clean up.” Damian agreed. I turned face Damian.

“Damian, that is rude.” I said in a shocked tone. “Alfred cooks for you. The least you can do is clean up every once in a while.”

Damian’s face changed and he looked at Alfred. “I am sorry, Pennyworth. Where are my manners.” He stood up and brought his dishes to the sink. “Thank you for the meal.” Damian nodded to Alfred.

“It was my pleasure.” Alfred nodded to Damian.

Damian turned to me. He came over to me and whisper, “Sorry.”

“Ok.” I nodded at him.

Then he left the room. When I turned back everyone was starring at me. Kori and Dick had a smirk on their face and Bruce and Alfred looked to be almost shocked.

“What?” I questioned.

“Nothing.” Alfred said with a growing smile on his face.

Bruce stood up and took his dished to the sink. “Thank you, Alfred.” He said before leaving the room.

Dick smiled and stood up when Bruce left. He went over and put his dishes in the sink and walked out of the room with a smirk on his face and shaking his head.

Alfred turned to us girls when the guys had all left. “You girls have taught those guys manners. I have been trying to teach them that for years.” He laughed. “Master Bruce has never brought his dishes to the sink in all the years I have been with him. I was even here when he was but a baby.”

“Sometimes it just takes a women’s touch.” Kori looked at me.

“Well, thank you.” Alfred smiled at both of us. “Now you better be getting ready. It is nearly ten already.”

Kori looked at the clock and nodded. She grabbed my hand and rushed a thank you to Alfred as she ushered me out the door with her. She dragged me all the way up the steps and to our rooms.

Went we got to our rooms I went in mine and she went in hers. Of course I didn’t know what to do first, but lucky for me Kori came through the bathroom.

“I am not sure where to start.” She said.

“I have no clue.” I shrugged.

“Maybe with hair?” She came over and sat on the edge of my bed. “We can put on a movie in my room and style each others hair.” She suggested.

“Sure.” I stood up and followed her into her room.

“What would you like your hair to be?” She said, moving out a chair for me. I grabbed the remote and sat down on it.

“Nothing fancy.” I tell her, turning on the TV.

“How about if I curl you ends just a little?” She gave me a sweet smile.

“Sure.” I say, flipping through channels.

We settled on watching Ghost Whisperer on tv. Kori took her time and did my hair with such care that it felt as if a mother was doing it. Kori has always been the closet thing to a mother figure I have ever had beside my real mother.

“I have always wanted to do my sister’s hair like this.” Kori said as she was working on my hair. “As I am sure you know, my sister has never been the type to want to do things like this with me. Komand'r has always been distant.” Kori sighed.

“Well I have never had a sister or really a mother, so this is…nice.” I say to her. “Thank you.”

She smiled and nodded to me. She finished my hair up quick after that and put spray in it to make it hold all night. The spray was a lot and made us both cough a bit, but I didn’t mind. I was actually having a good time with Kori.

“Go take a look in the mirror.” She said, stepping back.

I stood up and walked over to the mirror. My hair looked perfect. It was just enough of a curl that it made it look fancy, without going overboard. I turned to Kori. “It’s beautiful. Thank you.”

She just smiled at me. I took one more look at myself in the mirror and walked over to chair. “Now it is my turn. I am not good with all the hair stuff, so I am going to use a spell.” Kori nodded. “Azarath Metrion Zinthos”

And just like that, Kori’s hair was put half up and half down. She looked stunning and so mature. “There.” I stepped back. She went over to the mirror and looked at herself.

“Oh my!” She felt her hair. “This is wonderful!”

We talked a bit and put some spray on her hair to hold. When we looked at the time it was already noon. Alfred came in with some lunch.

“You look lovely, ladies.” He said before he left.

Kori and I hurried to eat and then did our makeup together. Kori helped me with some of my makeup and then she did her own and we both looked lovely. As we finished our makeup we rushed into our dresses. Maybe Batman was right about giving us all that extra time to get ready, because we were rushing now.

Kori and I went to our separate rooms to get dressed. I slid on my soft dress, looking at myself in the mirror. The dress still looked as stunning as the day I bought it. The dress hugged me perfectly.

Kori knocked on my door.

“Come in.”

“You look stunning.” She said as she stepped into the room.

I turned and saw Kori. She looked like a true princess. She was beautiful and smiling so bright at me. I mumbled a thanks and looked at my feet.

“Dick and the boys went down already. Damian and his father are receiving guests as we speak.” Kori said, stepping into the room more.

I slid on my shoes. “It’s time for the Galla?”

“Yes.”

******

Damian’s POV:

It was noon when the guests started to arrive. I didn’t even get the chance to finish my meal before Father summoned me. As son’s of Bruce Wayne, Dick and I had to stand and greet the guests as they came in.

It was going to be a long hour, but because of the little wager Raven had placed yesterday, I wasn’t quite dreading it. I didn’t know what I would do when I won, but it was a bet that I didn’t want to loose.  

I had to had to act like I wanted to be there. I had to act excited and ready to greet people. So when I found Father already talking to a few guests, I walked right over.

“Hello.” I said, putting on a fake smile. Only I knew it was fake though. The guests looked happy. “Welcome.” I shook the man’s hand and nodded to the lady.

“Oh, hello. Damian isn’t it?” The lady asked.

“Yes.” I nodded to her.

They nodded and walked away. Dick looked at me completely stunned. Father too looked wary of my actions.

“Where is Damian and who are you?” Dick said to me.

“Don’t be over dramatic, Greyson.” I said in my normal tone.

“There he is.” Dick pointed at me.

Another guest came over and father greeted them first. Then Dick and soon they passed to me.

“Hello, welcome.” I smiled and nodded to them.

When they passed, Dick was look at me again. His jaw was dropped. Seeing Dick’s reaction was almost enough to make this whole night worth it in itself.

“Stop staring, Greyson.” I looked forward.

“What is going on?” Dick asked, stepping in front of me.

“I am winning a bet.” I answered. Another guest came over before Dick could ask any more questions. Soon we were swamped with people coming in. I put on a smile and greeted every one of them.

Dick would shoot me sideways looks and so would father, but I just continued to act. After what felt like forever, people started to slowly stop coming. Father checked his watch.

“It is time to start to Galla.” He walked towards the doors. Dick and I followed him inside the ball room. We had spent most of the morning moving tables and things to make room for all our guests. The room was in immaculate shape.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, I am please to welcome you all tonight. As a tradition my mother started all those years ago, we keep this Galla going in her memory. So, I would like to take a moment to thank all of those who has made this night possible.” Father turned to us. “And to my boys, who were able to come tonight.” He raised a glass. “Cheers!”

Everyone in the room raised a glass and said, “cheers!”

Father set down his glass and started talking to people. Dick stood beside me, looked around and nodding at people who waved.

“What are you doing, Greyson?” I said as I waved to someone across the room.

“I am trying to figure out what you are up too.” He said, waving at someone else.

“I am not up to anything.” I smile at someone passing by.

“Oh really. Then why are you not in some corner being gloomy?” Dick turned to me.

“I made a bet.” I looked at him. “I intend to win it.”

Dick nodded as if trying to understand it. “Why?”

“Because.” I didn’t feel like explaining.

Just then the doors opened on the second floor of the ball room. Kori and Raven stepped out and descended the stairs. Raven had on a dark blue dress, and as she scanned the room, my heart started to speed up.

She was stunning. Kori and her seemed to be talking and when Raven smiled at something my heart almost stopped. She was perfect.

Dick seemed shocked at Kori’s appearance as well, because he didn’t even move or say anything. I cleared my throat and got him out of it. I watched Raven as she was introduced to some of the people around. She shook a few hands and then her amethyst eyes caught mine, I  felt a tug in my heart.

I started walking over to the girls. I waited for Raven to shake a guests hand before I approached.

“Hello, Damian.” The lady said, noticing me.

“Hello.” I nodded to her with a smile.

The lady said something to Raven that made her turn red, but when she left I went over to her. “Raven.” I said, standing beside her.

“Damian.” She smiled. “Are you being a gentleman?” She joked.

I leaned into her ear. “Always.”

*****

Raven’s POV:

“Always.” His voice was low and sent shivers down my spine.

I turn to face him, but when I did our faces became so close that our noses touched. I was speechless. I swallowed hard and then leaned back to look into his eyes.

“Kori, you look stunning.” Dick said, walking over. I pulled away completely and turned to look at Kori and Dick. I was burning red. Was it hot in here?

“Thank you, Dick.” She smiled and took his arm.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, this is a dance is it not? Please join us on the dance floor!” Bruce’s voice came from in the crowd. I couldn’t see him, but soon enough the music started playing.

“May I?” Damian reached out a hand.

“Oh course.” I smiled at him and took his hand. He led me on the dance floor. I put one arm on his shoulder and he held my other arm in his hand as he led us through the dance. He was quite good.

“You are a really good dance.” I said to him, looking him in the eyes.

“I was trained in the art of dance when I was younger. Mother thought it was a skill that everyone should know.” He smiled at me.

“Trigon thought I needed to learn to dance as well. He gave me the best teachers and they taught me.” I told him. “Father believed that dance was vital.”

Damian laughed. “Vital? No, but fun? Maybe.”

“Agreed.” I smiled. The dance started to speed up and Damian and I moved closer together, closing the small space between us. Our torsos were now touching.

“I have greeted everyone with a smile, and if you need proof you may talk to Dick.” Damian led us around the room. “Dick seemed shocked.”

“Of course he was shocked.” I grinned. “You are never so nice.”

“Hey, I am nice.” He argued with a smile.

“No, you are stern. But that is how you were raised.” I looked into his green eyes, almost getting lost once again.

“Well, not always, but I guess you are right.” Damian bowed his head.

“I was taught to be like that.” I said, trying to make him feel better. “Father taught me to always take things for granted, but that is why I don’t anymore. If he wanted it, then I must do the opposite.”

“Being the daughter to a demon, I guess that is a good way to live.” He nods.

I glanced around us. There were eyes on us. Many.

“Damian, people are starring.” I looked up at him.

“Let them.” He grinned.

I got lost in his eyes. Soon the dance ended and I took Damian’s hand as he lead me through the crowd. As we passed we were stopped by a few people. Damian was kind and introduced me. I would nod and say hello to them.

When we finally made it across the room, we went over to were Jaime and Garth were standing. They were chatting and didn’t see us coming, so when they turned they almost jumped out of their seats.

“Hello.” Damian nodded to them. He turned to me. “I am going to get us drinks.”

Then he left.

“Raven, you look nice.” Jaime smiled at me.

“Thanks.” I nodded to him.

I watched the crowd for a while, seeing all these people as they dance and talked to each other. They were all dressed so nice and fancy.

“Hello.” I heard someone beside me. I turned to see Conner AKA Super Boy.

“Conner.” I nodded to him.

“What a nice party.” He stood closer to me.

“Yes.” I nod and look back at the crowd.

“Of all the people in this room, you are by far the fairest.” Conner whispered in my ear. I turned fast and took a step away, and was about to say something but was interrupted.

“Conner.” Damian practically growled. I stepped towards Damian, not really sure why, but felt I need to be by his side so he didn’t make a scene.

“Ah, Damian Wayne, what a pleasure.” He bowed his head at Damian. “I was just tell Raven here how nice the party is.”

Damian said nothing but rage was steaming off of Damian. I grabbed his arm and wrapped my arm around his. Damian turned to me with rage in his eyes, but soften when he looked at me. He stood up a little straighter and turned back to Conner.

“Thank you.” He mumbled to Conner.

“Damian, would you mind walking outside with me? I need fresh air.” I said, trying to get Damian out of the room.

“Of course.” He nodded and led me outside.

“Damian, are you alright?” I asked as we got out of ear shot from the guests.

He didn’t say anything as he lead me further outside. We walked down the main steps of the house in silence. I could still feel Damian’s anger with my empathic abilities but there was also something else. I couldn’t put my finger on it.

We we reached the grass area of the yard, Damian let my arm go and handed me a drink. I took it, taking a sip. He walked further and further, and my feet were starting to hurt in my heels, so I quickly pulled them off and carried them in my hands.

I caught up with Damian and turned back to the house. We were about a half a mile away from the house now. Damian started to slow down and soon he just stopped. After he didn’t walk anymore for about three minutes I sank to the ground and sat on the fresh grass.

I watched Damian, as he looked down at me. I patted the ground beside me for him to sit. He hesitated but then sat down.

“Damian…” I looked him in his emerald eyes. “Are you okay?”

The next thing I knew his hand was on my face and he guided my lips to his. When our lips touched I felt sparks. My heart sped up as our kiss continued. When he pulled away I touched my lips where his used to me.

“I am better now.” He said looking at me.

I looked at him and a smile grew on his face. It was so contagious that a smile grew on my own face.

“Not that I am complaining, but what was that for?” I said, not able to stop smiling.

“Because I wanted to kiss the most beautiful girl in the world.” He worlds melted my heart.

I was speechless with a smile on my face. I am sure I looked dumb, but I couldn’t help it.

“Damian?” I said when I finally could muster the words.

“Yes?” He leaned forward.

I put my hands on his face and pulled him towards me. He looked me in the eyes and smiled at me, one of those rare, real smiles that makes my heart melt. I pulled him forward until our lips collided.

Best Galla Ever.

POV Raven:

This morning has been slow. Garth has been asking for everyone to go to the new circus in town. I couldn’t care less, but the others seem to want to stay home and be lazy.

I was meditating in the small garden outside when I heard the rustle of leaves. The intruders ora was excited. I couldn’t place where I have seen them from.

“Hello there, beautiful.” The voice sang as he came into view. I opened my eyes to see a boy, about the same age as me, with Superman’s logo on his chest.

“Who are you?” I said, levitating you the ground. I didn’t see the new comer as a threat.

“Where are my manners?” he bowed to me. “I am the new Superman.” He grabbed my hand and kissed it. “And who do I have the pleasure of speaking too?”

“I am Raven.” I took my hand back. “You seem young for a new Superman.”

“Age means nothing.” He stood up. I hit a sore spot.

“What are you doing here?” I stood.

“I am here because the President wishes to have the Teen Titans as her body guard.” He gave me a grin. “I am the Presidents personal body guard.”

“Did she just have the Justice League as her body guards?” I asked, remembering it now.

“Yes, but for public image, she has chosen the Titans as her new guards.” He gave me his arm. “Might I escort you back to the tower?”

“Fine.” I took his arm. “You will need to speak to Kori about all this. She is the one in charge.”

“Then I will do just that.” He smiled down at me.

When we were walking back to the tower, new Super boy tried to make small talk. He was annoyingly charming. Right as we got up onto the main floor, he told a joke.

“What do you call the sun when he’s had too much to drink?” He looked at me and I shrugged. “Moonshine!”

I couldn’t help myself and just as the elevators door opened, I laughed. Everyone turned to look at us. My arm was still wrapped around his and we were both laughing.

When we stopped, super boy released my arm and stepped forward. “Hello Teen Titans. I come here on behalf of the President. Might I speak with Kori?” He looked around for her.

Kori stepped forward and escorted him into a different room to talk. Garth came up to me.

“Who is that?” He gave me a look that I could not read.

“He is the president’s body guard. He says he is the new Superman.” I answered flatly. “What are you doing with your face, Garth?”

“I just think that maybe our Raven has a crush…” Garth smiled at me.

I punched him hard in the shoulder. Then I saw Damian stand up from the couch he was on. We looked at each other, but he turned away and stomped off.

What was his deal.

“I am sticking with my idea.” Garth said, rubbing his arm.

“Garth,” I looked at him. “Shut up.”

He laughed and walked back to the couch and started playing his video games again. I turned and went to my room.

It was about an hour later before there was a knock on my door. I opened it up and there stood Super Boy himself.

“Raven, might I ask for a tour around the tower?” He smiled.

“Sure.” I responded.

I started down the halls, telling him about all the rooms. “The girls live on this wing, and the boys live in the other.” I explained.

“Interesting.” He commented.

“I am sorry, but I can’t keep calling you new Superman. Do you have a name?” I asked. It was bothering me, not knowing what to call him.

“You can call me Conner.” He smiled. “So back to the tour… where do you train?”

“We train on the top floor.” I gestured to the elevator. We got in. “Why do you want to know all this?”

“Well, I have to stay here and brief you all on the plan. I want to know about the place I will be staying.” His voice was calm. It was kind of relaxing.

“Well, Conner,” I smiled. “In order to say you have stayed at the tower, I think it is only fair that you run through the simulator.” I joke.

He loved that idea. “Challenge accepted.” He smiled.

When we got on the floor I set up the simulation for him. Conner wanted me to put it on the highest setting, but I talked him down to the medium setting.

It started off slow and Conner got every machine that came at him. He did have all of Superman’s powers. I leaned on the monitor and watched him.

After Conner had taken down seven robots at once, he turned and winked at me. I blushed. It was about five minutes later that he got the last robot.

“That was fun.” He laughed.

“You did well. You almost beat the top time.” I read off the monitor.

“Who has the record?” He came over to look at the monitor.

“Robin.” I answered without thinking.

“I could beat that time.” Conner said.

“No, we should head back. We have supper soon.” I pointed at the clock. It was almost six.

“Maybe tomorrow.” He shrugged as we got into the elevator.

“Sure.” I said, knowing that as soon as anyone beat Robin’s score, he would beat theirs. I didn’t want to ruin Conners mood though.

When we got to the main floor, the pizza was already on the counter. Everyone already had their food, so I grabbed a plate and got two slices of cheese. Conner came behind me and got some all meet pizza.

“Hello.” Conner greeted everyone. Everyone mumbled back a response. Well accept for Damian who was glaring at Conner.

Did Damian not like Conner? Did they know each other? I would have to ask Damian later, I thought to myself.

“How was your tour?” Kori asked as Conner sat down.

“I had a wonderful tour guide. This place is pretty awesome.” Conner smiled at me.

“I am glad. Conner, when will we be briefed on the mission?” Kori asked.

“Orders come tomorrow at first light. If we could be ready to leave by noon, that would be ideal.” Conner said while ratting. “Make sure you pack for a few days. Maybe four.”

“Where are we going?” Garth asked, stuffing pizza in his mouth.

“DC.” Conner answered. “You will all be staying at the White House.”

“Wow.” Beetle sounded shocked.

“While you are there you will each be paid. For the four days you will be on patrol, and you will take turns around the clock.” Conner said, whipping his mouth.

“What would we be doing?” Damian said in a grim voice.

“You will be guarding her while the  president meets with some tourists . She would like to make a truce.” Conner explained.

“Why is she doing that?” Kori asked.

“She doesn’t want anymore war.” Conner sighed. “She is trying her best, but also taking a huge risk.”

“So we are here because the Justice League can’t?” Beetle asked.

“No, she asked for you guys personally.” Conner leaned back.

“Wow!” Garth jumped up. “The president wants us!”

Conner laughed and agreed. He told us that at first light there will be orders, and that we should all get rest, because it will be a long four days. Kori agreed and told us all to get ready.

“Garth, will you take Super boy to his room?” She asked.

“It’s Superman.” He corrected her.

Kori nodded but I could tell she didn’t agree with the name. Garth led him to his room, and I started on my way to my room. I was alone in the hallway when someone grabbed my arm and pulled me into a storage closet.

“How do you know him?” Damian’s voice was stone cold.

“I met him outside.” I answered annoyed to be pulled away. “Where did you meet him?”

“What?” Damian spat out.

“You are constantly glaring at him. You have to have met him and disliked him.” I point at him. “How do you know Conner?”

“Conner? You know his name?!” Damian sounded livid.

“Damian calm down. I gave him a tour and didn’t feel comfortable calling him Superman.” I explained. “I am not sure why you hate him so much. Is he… bad?”

Damian looked at me for a second. “No. I just don’t trust him.”

“Okay.” I calmed down.

“Okay?” He looked puzzled.

“I just mean okay. I am going to my room. We have a busy day ahead of us.” I opened the door to the closet and turned around. “Are we still going to have tea tomorrow?”

“Yeah.” Damian answered and stormed past me.

I went in my room and got ready for bed. Before I went to sleep I packed some clothes. I packed six outfits just in case.

When I was content with my packing skills, I went to bed. I slept really well that night. When I woke up it was still dark outside.

I got dressed and made my way to the kitchen. Damian was already there, pouring two glasses of tea.

“Morning.” I said, walking over and taking a glass.

“Morning.” He grabbed his cup and walked over to the window.

I sat at the table, sipping on my tea. We did this every morning. We would get up before sunrise and make tea. We would sit in silence and watch the sun com up together.

“How did you sleep?” He asked, not turning away.

“Fine.” I answered. “And you?”

“Fine.”

I finished my cup of tea and before I could stand and get another one, Damian came over and grabbed my glass. He brought me back another cup of tea.

“Thanks.” I said taking it. He sat beside me.

We have been doing this so long that I think he just knows that I like to have two cups of tea in the morning.

“Did you pack?” He asked.

“Yes. I packed for six days.” I said, looking out the window at the rising sun.

“Smart.”

We watched as the sun started to spread over the buildings. It was beautiful and peaceful. I loved watching it.

“Good morning!” Conner came into the kitchen.

“Morning.” I said, not looking his way.

“The orders have arrived.” He went to the counter. “Where’s the coffee?”

“We don’t have coffee.” Damian said plainly.

“What is this?” Conner got up cup and tried it. He spit it out right away. “Yuck.”

“It’s tea.” Damian glared.

Conner poured the rest of the tea down the drain. “You guys need to get coffee. It tastes much better.” I stood up, making both the boys look at me.

“I am going to leave.” I turn to Damian. “I have to pack.” Damian knew that I was lying, but I didn’t think he would out me.

I left the room. A few seconds later I heard someone run up from behind me. When I turned Conner was behind me.

“So I have news! I talked with the president, and you have been invited to be in the room when we have their negotiation.” Conner handed me a piece of paper. “I will be there as well.”

“Wow.” I didn’t know what to say. I was going to meet the president.

“You are going to need to pack professional. Bring a few modest dresses and anything that looks like business. You don’t need to worry about fighting. Your there for keeping the peace.” He told me.

“I am going to have to look threw my closet and find things then.” I started to worry if I had nice enough clothes.

“I will leave you to it then.” He smiled. “I just came to give you the news.”

I smiled and walked into my room. I grabbed my bag and dumped it out. All of these wouldn’t be fit to meet the president. I grabbed my dress that I got when I was shopping with Kori. Other than that I didn’t have any other dresses.

I went to Kori’s room. “Kori, are you awake?”

She hummed and I opened the door. She was packing. She must have just gotten out of the shower because she had her hair up in a towel.

“Do you have any dresses I can borrow?” I asked, looking at my feet.

“Why?” She looked over at me.

“Conner said my order was to be in the room during the debate. I need to dress business like.” I told her.

“I have a few dresses that I grew out of. You can have them if you want.” She pointed over to a box in her closet.

I opened I up and found a gorgeous blue dress on top. I looked at the size and I was perfect. “Is this okay?” I asked Kori.

“That would look perfect on you. Please take it.” She smiled.

I drug through a few more. There was a nice purple one and red one that also looked good. I grabbed the ones and went back to my room.

I packed them as nice as I could. I didn’t want them to get wrinkled. After I got everything packed, I grabbed my bag and brought it to the living room. The boys where already there with their bags when I walked in.

“Did you find some good clothes?” Conner asked.

“Yes.” I nodded.

“When everyone gets here I will brief you all.” Conner turned to the guys.

I walked over and set my stuff on one of the couches. Damian was working on something on his tablet. He didn’t look up.

The Kori walked in. “Good morning everyone!” She cheered. Her energy was tiring.

“Just waiting on Wonder Girl.” Conner said.

As soon as Wonder girl came in Conner started the briefing. He told everyone their plan and station that they would be at. We would be taking turns and switching back and forth.

“Raven will be with me in the meeting.” Conner explained. “And when you see one of us come out of the meeting, be prepared to the meeting to dismiss.”

“What happens when they dismiss?” Garth asked.

“Then you have to watch. If one person acts out, then you take them. Your first priority is protecting the president.” Conner’s voice was firm.

“Ok.” Everyone agreed to the plans.

“There is a car downstairs that is here to take us.” Canned said. We all grabbed our bags and brought them down.

The guys loaded our bags. Conner was about to reach for mine when Damian stepped forward and picked it up.

“Thanks.” I say softly.

He said nothing, but I knew he heard me. After all the bags were packed, we loaded in. I instantly put in my earbuds and started listening to composers.

Kori sat on one side of me, pinning me between the window and her. Garth was asking Conner questions and the others seemed to either be sleeping or playing on their phones.

It was a three hour drive. I used the time to listen to Beethoven and other amazing composers. It was relaxing. I have always loved the classic composers.

What are you listening to, Raven?“ Conner asked.

"Beethoven.” I answered simply.

“Nice.” Was all he said.

I got a text on my phone.

What symphony? Damian had overheard.

I sent back the seventh one. When I looked up our eyes met and she smiled. He know the seventh symphony was my absolute favorite. I looked back down and the rest of the ride I had a small smile on my face.

“We are here!” Conner announced.

I looked out the window and there stood the White House. It was bigger than I pictured, but it was breathtaking.

“Wow.” Kori took the words right out of my mouth.

When we parked we all stubbled out of the car. I let everyone get out before me because of how crazy it was. When I stepped out I went to stand my Damian.

“It’s nice.” I said to him.

“Yeah.” He sounded unexpressed. “I’ve been here before.”

“Really!” I turned to face him.

“I came with father.” He looked over the house. “It was for a mission.”

“You should be the one in the meeting then. You already know the president.” I said, starting to get nervous.

“Don’t worry. You’ll be fine.” He said, encouraging me.

“Thanks.” I gave him a small smile. He returned me with one of his own.

“You guys know your job.” Conner interrupted. “Girls rooms are to the right and boys to the left. Your schedules are in your rooms.”

Kori, Cassie (aka wonder girl) and I went to our shared room. There was three beds for each of us, which was a relief because I didn’t want to share beds.

I found the bed with my schedule and I set my bags on it. I sat down and studied it for a bit. I had a meeting with the president in one hour to meet her.

“Kori,” I walked over to her. “Can you help me get ready. I have to meet the president in an hour and I need to get ready.”

Kori has always been the closet thing to a big sister. I mean I have a sister but she wants to kill me, so I don’t feel she counts.

“Sure!” She got up and started going through my bag. She pulled out a nice top and black pants. “For the first meeting I think you should wear this.”

I took the clothes and changed in the bathroom. When I came out Kori and Cassie looked at me.

“Wow.” Cassie said dropping her clothes she had in her hand. “You look hot.”

“Um… thanks.” I said, unsure of what to say.

“She is right.” Kori smiled. “Here, lets curl your hair a bit.”

Kori grabbed my hands and walked me into the bathroom. She grabbed her curling iron and started to curl the ends of my hair. I looked professional, I thought as she finished.

“You look amazing!” Cassie said from behind me. “Here, I know you don’t like lip stick, but this is your tone.”

She was right. When I put it on it wasn’t too bad. “Thanks” I told both of them. “For helping.”

“It’s nothing.” Kori smiled.

By the time I was all ready, I had about ten minutes before my meeting. I opened the door and walked over to the meeting place. I was supposed to wait until Conner for the meeting.

“Raven?”

I turned and saw Damian. He was starring at me. “Robin.”

“What are you doing?” He came over to me.

“I am going to meet the president.” I explain. “Do I look okay?” I wanted to know his opinion.

“Yes.” He smiled. “Very professional.”

“That’s what I was going for.” I sighed.

“When is this meeting?” He looked at his watch.

“As soon as Conner comes, we will head to it.” I explain.

“Your spending a lot of time with Conner.” He leaned against the wall.

“Only because he and I are on the same detail. It’s just for the mission.” I leaned on the wall across from him.

“Okay.”

“Okay?”

Then Conner came out of no where. “Raven, sorry I am late. We must hurry.”

I followed Conner down some halls and past many doors. I would so get lost in this place. Once we got to this big door, Conner knocked.

It opened.

*****

After meeting the president, I was tried. It was a two hour meeting of taking about what I liked and school. At the end we finally went over the plan for the next few days.

The president was a very kind women. She wanted to know my interests and hobbies. She didn’t judge me when I told her my father was Trigon. I enjoyed meeting her.

It was already eight when I got back to my room. The others were at supper, but I didn’t really feel like eating. There was a knock on the door.

When I opened it, it was Damian. “I saw you didn’t come for supper.”

“I was not hungry.”

“You should eat, Raven.” His voice was soft.

“I am fine, but thank you.” I smiled at him.

He stepped into the room. “Are you okay?”

“I am just tired. But the president was wonderful.” I sat on my bed. Damian came over and leaned against the wall.

“What’s the plan?” Damian looked at the huge painting in this room.

“She just wants us there to keep the peace and make sure no one loses their life. She wants this to go well.” I shrugged.

“Good.” Damian nodded.

I yawn. “Cross your fingers this goes all right.”

He laughed. “I’ll let you get some sleep. Are we meeting for tea?”

“Yeah.” I smiled and lead him to the door. “I’ll meet you in foyer and we can find a place with tea.”

“Ok.” He nodded. “Goodnight Raven.”

“Goodnight Robin.” I said then closed the door. I turned off the light and went to bed.

It was an hour before I heard rustling but it was just Kori and Cassie getting ready for bed. I went back to sleep.

*****

It was four in the morning when I snuck out of the room. I didn’t know how long it would take so I got dressed in my black dress. It was a summery dress, and went to my knees.

I stepped out of the room and closed the door. I quietly stepped in the foyer. I looked around for a second but didn’t see Damian.

Then someone touched my shoulder. I grabbed the hand and flipped the assailant. When I turned Damian was on the ground.

“Nice one.” He smiled and stood up.

“Sorry, you scared me.” I tried to help him.

“It’s fine.” He laughed. Then he noticed my dress. “You look nice.”

“Thanks. I wasn’t sure when we would be done and wanted to be prepared for today.” I shrugged.

“I looked around and there is a place we can try.” Damian held out his arm for me.

“Sounds good.” I took it and we walked. I wasn’t sure of where we were going, but I followed him.

When we got there I went to grab us a table and Damian went up to the counter and ordered. I found a nice place outside, with a umbrella to give us shelter.

Damian came over a few minutes later with two cups. He handed me one cup and sat in the chair across from me.

“Thank you.” I took a sip. It was amazing tea. “How much do I owe you?”

“I charged it to my father.” He took a sip.

“Oh.”

“He will be paying for our tea and anything else I want for a while.” Damian had a devious look.

“What did the bat do?” I smirked.

“He told me no.” Damian smirked back.

I laughed and sipped my tea. “Well thank your father for this amazing tea.” I picked my cup up and cheered.

“Hey, I was the one to pick the tea.” He laughed.

“Well you didn’t pay.” I mock him.

We laughed. He finished his cup and watched the sky. The sun was just coming up past the trees. I looked over at Damian and smiled.

“What?” He turned to me.

“Nothing.” I looked away.

“Do you want a refill?” He nodded to my empty cup.

“Yes.” He took my cup and went to the counter. When he came back he had a grim look on his face. “What happened?”

“The cashier wanted me to give you this.” He handed me a piece of paper with a phone number on it.

I laughed. “That is stupid.” And I tossed the paper behind me.

We sat there for another few minutes and I drank the rest of my second tea. Damian and I said nothing to each other, but we didn’t need to. The morning was lovely.

We headed back to the foyer together. Damian and I were both in better moods when we arrived. Everyone else gathered soon after and then we split up for our daily tasks.

Soon it was just Conner and I.

“Good morning Raven.” He smiled at me.

“Good morning.” I nodded.

I followed Conner to a building where the meeting would be held. We had an hour before the meeting would start so I did a scan of the room.

“Everything seems good. Nothing out of the ordinary.” I told Conner.

“Good.” He said playing on his phone.

He wasn’t really taking anything serious was he. How could he be the president’s body guard? I shook off the thought and continued to walk the room.

Damian taught me to always scan the room. I remember the day he insisted on teaching me. I had just failed a sneak attack simulation, and he spent the whole day teaching me how to avoid that again.

About twenty minutes later people started to file into the room. Conner left to escort the president in, while I helped the people get seated.

“Raven, aren’t you in the Teen Titans?” One of the people I was helping asked.

“Yes, but we also serve our president.” I answered how Conner taught us to.

“Amazing.” He sounded shocked.

Then the president came in. “Hello everyone!” She smiled. “As I am sure you are aware, the Teen Titans are here today. Can we all give them a warm welcome.” She started clapping and soon the entire room was.

“Raven over here is going to be joining us in our meeting. She has a bright mind, so if you could, no mean talk folks.” She gestured to me and I gave a shy wave to everyone who was staring.

“Alright, lets begin!”

*****

The first day of the meeting was rough. People were talking over people and names where called. I sank into the background and observed. No one seemed angry enough to fight, so all in all we had a good day.

I could barely stand on my feet by the time Conner and I were dismissed. All I wanted to do was sit down.

“How was that for a first day?” Conner asked, laughing.

“I don’t know how you can stand.” I sighed.

“I am going to tell you a secret…” he leaned towards me. “I flew for a bit to give my feet a break.”

“Now you tell me.” I laugh.

“Try it tomorrow.” He offered.

“Thanks.” I was so going to use that trick. Not only did I have to dress nice, but I was also wearing sensible heels.

As soon as I got to the foyer I headed straight to my room. When I got in Kori and Cassie where laughing.

“What happened to you?” Cassie asked as I walked through the door.

“I stood on my feet and watch grown ups call each other names for five hours.” I plopped on my bed.

“You where standing the whole time?” Kori asked.

“Yeah.” I mumbled into my bed.

“Wow. I couldn’t do that.” Cassie laughed.

The girls told me how there day was flying above the building while the boys took turns matching it. Garth was so bored he even took a nap. Well, until Robin woke him up.

“That sounds much better than my day.” I rolled over to look at the ceiling.

“But you got to meet the president.” Cassie argued.

“It’s so boring though.” I yawned.

“We have an hour before supper, how about you rest and we will come get you.” Kori suggested.

“Yes!” I agreed.

The girls left to talk with the boys. I was so tired that I didn’t even climb into bed. I just laid on the comforter.

An hour passed, and just like they said, the girls came and got me. We made our way out to the dinning room and got our food.

“Raven, how was the meeting?” Garth asked.

“I didn’t much care for it.” I sat down.

“What? Why?” Beetle asked.

“Watching grown men fight over who is better while calling each other names is not my idea of fun.” I looked at Beetle.

They all laugh, but I was being completely serious. I finished my meal fast, and then sat around to hear all about Garths dream he had while sleeping on the job.

He said that he saw himself as a goose and all the fish in the pond where following him. Garth’s dreams are always animal filled and meaninglessness, but many find amusement in it.

I sat down at the couch that was in the room, and soon everyone came and sat around. Eventually Damian came over and sat beside me.

I didn’t laugh at any of the stories. It was strange to hear everything that went on in Garth’s mind. He had an odd soul.

Conner walked into the room. “Hey guys, how did your first day go?”

Garth told him all about his dream, leaving out the part that he had it while on the job. And the. Everyone else was giving a run down of the day.

“Remember to fill out your report and turn it in before you leave for work tomorrow.” Conner handed everyone a piece of paper.

I looked over the paper. It was simple enough. I stood up and headed to my room. I wanted to get my report done before bed.

“Robin, where are you going?” Kori asked, making me turn around. Damian was behind me.

“I am going to work on my report.” Damian’s tone was glumly.

We walked together down the hall. Before I turned down my wing, I turned to him.

“Tea?” He asked.

“Yes.” I nodded and walked down to my room.

*****

The next day was much like the first. I used Conner’s trick of levitating right above the ground to save my feet the pain.

Five hours of boring debate later, I was finally free to go back to my room. Today I wasn’t as tired so I meditated on my bed until Kori and Cassie came back from their shift.

“How was your day Raven?” Cassie said when she saw I was done meditating.

“It was fine.” I got up.

“I think I might go explore.” I stood and walked to the door.

“There is a nice garden on the East end.” Kori recommended.

I nodded and walked out. I followed Kori’s instructions and walked to the East doors. When I stepped out, I noticed someone else was there.

“Damian?” I stepped forward.

He turned to look up at me. He stood up from the ground he was on.

“Raven.”

“I am sorry if I interrupted.” I started back inside.

“No, it’s fine.”

I turned to make sure it was fine. I walked over to see what he was looking at. There was this beautiful blue flower on the ground. It was strange. I had seen this before, but not on earth.

“This is a alien plant.” I mumbled.

“How do you know?”

“I saw this on a planet when my father still used me as a warning.” I bent down and touched the plant. “This isn’t supposed to be here. How is this alive?”

“I don’t know.” He bent beside me and got a soil sample.

I looked at him.

“What? I’m curious.” He shrugged.

Soon after, it was time to eat. Right after I filled out my report, I went to bed.

The next few days where the same. There was no purposed for us being here other than show. It was the final day. Conner handed us all a book.

“As a thank you from the president herself, here is a signed copy of her book.” Conner smirked. “The car will be here in an hour. Please know your checks will be following in the next few days.”

Kori said goodbye to Conner and we all grabbed our bags and brought them to the main area. I was reading a book when the car came.

Everyone piled in. I read a book and listened to music the whole ride back. Overall I think this mission was childish and worthless, but I can now say I met the president.

It was three hours before we arrived at home. We spent the next few hours unpacking and doing laundry. It was eight o'clock when I was finished with everything.

The next morning I woke up and got up like normal. When I went to the kitchen for tea, Damian wasn’t there. I decided to make the tea for us both.

“Morning!” I turned to see Conner.

“Conner?” I was surprised. “Is everything ok?”

“Yeah, I just came to see if you wanted to get coffee sometime?” He smiled and came closer to me.

“She doesn’t like coffee.” Damian stepped in front of Conner. “Why don’t you go and ask Lex Luther to get some coffee. You know as father and son.”

“What?” I didn’t know Conner was Lex’s son.

“He didn’t tell you? He was engineered to be Superman with the real Superman’s DNA and Lex’s.” Damian stared down Conner.

“What’s your deal man?” Conner was getting angry.

“I don’t like seeing you hit on Raven.” Damian poked his chest. “You should go now.”

Conner looked at me. “It didn’t matter what he thinks. Do you want coffee?”

“No.” I answered.

Then Conner’s phone started ringing.

“Daddy’s calling.” Damian smirked.

Conner looked at me and when he knew I wasn’t going with him, he left. He stormed away very angry. When I turned to Damian, he had a look of triumph.

“Tea?” I handed him a cup.

He took it and smiled. “Sorry I was late. Father was telling me about Conner’s background.”

“No worries. I thought I would make the tea for once.” I walked over to the table. Damian sat in the chair next to mine.

“This is good.” He complimented.

“It’s not as good as yours.” I said after I took a sip.

He grabbed my cup and dumped mine down the sink. Then he started making his tea. I sat back and thanked him.

“I’ll let you make the tea.” I said as he gave me a cup.

“Only if you choose where to sit.” He smiled. “Then deal.”

“Deal.”