Teen Titans: Next Gen IC

"That's a good question..." The stranger spoke after a period of silence, only then to become silent once more as he eyed the tower and the city. He was unsure if he should be here or not, which was understandable on the green teen’s part.

Jullian continued to watch him with resoluteness, his unyielding gaze ever persistent, never once blinking an eye as he did. He may appear daunting, his golden eyes similar to that of a hell beast waiting to devour souls, similar to the renaissance depictions of the gates of hell, if one were to really consider staring back and get a real good look at him. But like the dark figure before them, the teen was reading everything, even in between the lines. The souls of his past swam inside of his eyes, his shadow appeared as a grimacing beast with forked tails and tentacles, all which were wriggling.

Yes, we know who was doing most of the examining now. He heard the diabolical laughter, though it was subtle. The extremities retracted and the silhouette became stagnant, returning to the appearance of his form.

Jules continued to muse, disregarding his darker half. Vlad was Vlad, after all. But then again, that was what was so appalling about him, always the enigmatic one, one could never really know what was up his sleeve until it was too late. Even he could not decipher the prince, he was forever shifting, and every time Jules thought he had figured him out, he grew cold again; like an iceberg. At least he was always there whenever anyone tried to 86 him, even if it did come of price. Vlad always was consistent with his ranting and ramblings of how he was the true owner of the body and promised that someday he would claim what was rightfully his. Alas, he was also very opinionated. Jules often wondered if he was correct, and very conceitedly, Vlad affirmed he was never wrong.

The newcomer finally glanced back at them, then finally said; "The short, simple version? Assuming you are the.. 'good guys'. I noticed you have a problem..." He uncrossed his arms, gesturing to the dark city. Jullian studied his every movement, listening closely as he continued. "I've been a bit bored, and I think I could help…" It was a simple and honest answer, the reincarnated demon deity could tell. Honesty, not something you see common nowadays, especially around here in this demoralized city.

"I guess I should introduce myself. I'm Michael.” He told and made known. “By most definitions, I'm no hero. I have no costume, I have no codename, I have no real motivation to help anyone... But… Sometimes you just get that itch to do something more. You know? So.. which one of you is in charge here?"

Jullian smiled and nodded, a clear sign that he understood him well. It was honestly a first time for all of them, leave it to destiny for calling them all to become superheroes.

Well, not really. Jules still had two doors he had to pick to go through. And he had played hero before, helping and saving lives as a young teen.

Many times his efforts went unappreciated, especially since his powers were so daunting. The children usually viewed him as a genie for the fact that he was green and could do miraculous stunts for them, while the adults considered him to be a abominable spawn from the coldest yet hottest regions of hell. Fortunately, it was not like that everywhere he went, though. The most respect he had ever gotten, without a doubt, was from the Indians and Orientals. Heck, he was even a celebrity there in Asia.

He even knew the Justice League, despite the popular "truth" that he remained locked up inside the estate for the most of his growing up life. In fact, he had only remained inside his home, less he needed to be elsewhere, up until he was fourteen. Of course, this did not mean he had a normal life, far from it, especially with his overprotective mother keeping a constant eye over him.

...Speaking of her, he wondered what she was doing right now. He got his answer, however, as he soon received the image of a raging green woman freaking out as she made her way over here by plane, while a red man similar to her species tried to calm her down. Eddie clung onto her for dear life as she tried to beat him away while she was steering. He sweat dropped, now feeling a bit nervous.

Nevermind that. He pushed the imagery away as quick as possible to deal with what was now at hand.

“Please to make your acquaintance! My name is Jullian, also known as Shadow. It’s my code name.” He said with a chuckle, removing his hat and bowing respectfully. He stood back up with his usual wide smiled plastered on his face and placed his hat back on. “I wouldn’t worry about such things. Code names can seldom be irrelevant, especially when everyone already knows your face.” He assured. “And really, what is in a name? I have too many of them.”

He then gestured to his friend, using both his hands in a fashion most magicians use when something or someone appears beside them. “And this is my friend and teammate, Joker.” He hummed gleefully as the other teen greeted him, affirming that it was his identity.

“And as for our leader,” He continued, stepping up to him in one big leap, though he remained out of the man’s personal space. “You must meet her yourself! That is, in order to be properly introduced!” He gestured towards the Tower with one hand, while the other remained behind his back.

The dark prince skipped and hopped away from Michael and the Joker, leading the way. He looked back, grinning as he called out to them; “Come! Come along! Come inside! Don’t be shy!”

He continued leading the rest of the way, using his telekinetic abilities to open the doors. He then stood beside the entrance waiting for them, beckoning them to come before placing his hands behind his back. He waited patiently, humming once again to himself as he tried to contain his excitement.

He then sensed the commotion going on inside, the tension had not once died down. He smiled sadly as he looked up at the building that was in the peculiar shape of the letter "T". Already they all were not getting along well, and it was their first day! He knew things would take time, like most things in life did. They just needed to warm up to each other and break the ice before the place turned into a rather gigantic freezer.

As the others neared, he smiled brightly again. He pushed back the negative emotions he was experiencing, less he wanted it to rain again. And by experience, rainy days never made any situation better, in fact, they did quite the opposite.

The way the green one watched him as he spoke interested Michael somewhat. It was a sort of dissecting look, as if he was reading his mind or decrypting his responses in order to determine whether or not the were true. Luckily for the taller, blonde teen, he wasn't. After all, these strange guys could have powers a lot more devastating than his, and being an unwelcome visitor might be a disastrous position. When he had finished speaking, the short one chirped back cheerfully how nice it was to meet him, all the while giving his name, including his real one. It seemed dangerously trusting, but it only seemed to better confirm Michael's assumption that this guy could read him somehow.

“I wouldn’t worry about such things. Code names can seldom be irrelevant, especially when everyone already knows your face.” He assured. “And really, what is in a name? I have too many of them.”

Michael only nodded slightly in response to this. He was well aware of the necessity for costumes and code names. It was for heroes who had friends and family and needed to protect them, or as a way to simply live a normal life at times. Michael tried having a normal life, but he lacked passion for typical things. There was also somewhat of a limit to how normal of a life he could get anyways. He didn't have a driver's licence, or even a Social Security number. He didn't have a family and after last night, he didn't have friends either which subsequently meant he had lost his place to live, given that he had been staying with Natalie. So there was no one to protect, not even himself. No villain could harm him by threatening his friends or family. They could only harm him physically, and even that hadn't happened yet.

Michael nodded to Joker once he was introduced as well. So, Shadow and Joker. They seemed a bit odd, and Julian was definitely unnervingly cheerful, especially for having the name of 'Shadow' but he couldn't say either of them bothered him. He simply had to hope the top hatted teen was only being friendly and didn't act like this all the time. Even so, he was willing to take him inside, so perhaps Michael already owed something to the friendly attitude.

“And as for our leader,” He continued, stepping up to him in one big leap, though he remained out of the man’s personal space. “You must meet her yourself! That is, in order to be properly introduced!”

Michael remained stationary, though he wasn't entirely thrilled with Julian getting closer to him. People who were this nice were actually sort of freaky. Maybe he could snap at any moment? Really though, the main thought in Michael's mind was if their leader was hot. Truthfully, the idea of a female in charge both intrigued and concerned Michael. He simply never really got along with many of them. Perhaps it was his general lack of emotion, or unwillingness to be open, or maybe it was because he didn't chase them or play any of the silly games of seduction. All of this mainly dealt with women for relationships. This wasn't the case this time. How would he respond to working with her, and vice versa?

The dark prince skipped and hopped away from Michael and the Joker, leading the way. He looked back, grinning as he called out to them; “Come! Come along! Come inside! Don’t be shy!”

With that, Michael began forward into the building after Julian. He was actually a bit curious to their powers now. It was a bit surprising that they hadn't questioned him about such. For all they know, he was just a delusional guy who carried a sword, pretending to be a superhero. He was pretty confident they'd approve of his abilities, but he had to wonder how he'd even prove his worth. In his spare time, Michael would often fly to deserted regions and practice his abilities in case they ever became necessary. He thought he had quite a good handle on them now, but actually showing them to other people wasn't something he had done before.

"I have to admit, I didn't expect to be welcomed to swiftly..." Michael finally spoke up again, still following behind Julian. "But.. I appreciate you trusting me..." He added, his voice halting a bit as if he wasn't really used to thanking anyone. Already feeling uncomfortable with such words, he quickly tried to change the subject.

"I can only hope your leader is as accepting.. What's her name, anyhow?"

Joker listened intently to the conversation, though one thing this Micheal said did strike him as odd.

"I've been a bit bored, and I think I could help.."

Bored?!?! God, what would happen when he got bored of being a hero? would he betray them?

He shook the though from his mind and followed the pair, his staff still firmly in his hand.

"I have to admit, I didn't expect to be welcomed to swiftly... But.. I appreciate you trusting me... I can only hope your leader is as accepting.. What's her name, anyhow?" This was the newcomer Micheal.

Joker sidled up to the newcomer.

'Forgive Julian, he is... eccentric, but also a very nice guy. And who says that we trust you? I only just met you, and you seemed to know that the titans were back...'

He stopped abruptly, a scary though surfacing in his mind.

'Julian, come here a second.' He said then turned back to Micheal, 'How did you know the Titans were here? As i understand it, Heroes aren't welcome in the city and as such we were keeping our presence secret for now.'

He turned back to Julian, 'If he guessed we were here, then others less desirable may have as well.'

"I have to admit, I didn't expect to be welcomed too swiftly..." Michael finally spoke up again as he followed pale green skinned teenager. "But.. I appreciate you trusting me..." He added, struggling a bit with his words. He paused for a moment, then continued with a different subject in mind; "I can only hope your leader is as accepting.. What's her name, anyhow?"

“Forgive Julian, he is...eccentric, but also a very nice guy.” Joker interjected before Jules could answer, that is after he had sidled up to the blonde. “And who says that we trust you? I only just met you, and you seemed to know that the Titans were back…”

Jullian sensed the uneasiness emitting from the two. He looked at both of them, studying them for a moment. Their orange chakra was dominating the rest of their auras, especially around the abdominal area, the sure sign of uneasiness. The young teen looked from Joker to Michael.

The Joker’s aura kept fading in and out, he noticed, and it had been doing that since the moment he had first laid eyes upon him. It did not surprise him at all in the least, though, no. The fading of color just meant that his aura was now clear, a sign of the pain and doubts that he carried, as well as his psychological disorders. The Joker was basically much like Christmas tree lights, blinking on and off in random segments, and sometimes all completely.

Michael’s aura, however, was mostly that of a bold orange, not counting the brighter orange light glowing in the center of his stomach, the second one in the spleen. He also saw some red in there, too, which meant the possibility of him wanting to avoid anything irrational or abstract. The red also meant he either attracts or repels: anger, money worries, anxiety, unforgiveness, or obsessions. Red was such a passionate color, and anyone who possessed it was usually rational and corresponded with their physical body, prone to seriousness and stubbornness. The orange meant that he was bold, uncaring, pleasure seeking, and very physical.

And it was not just auras he could sense, either. Again, the demon prince could read between the lines fairly well without having to pry into someone’s psyche or prod them for answers. In a sense, he could read people like a book. He had this ability perhaps since he was a toddler, at least that is what his mother had told him.

He turned his attention back to the Joker once more, having an impression that he was about to speak up once again.

“Jullian, come here a second.” Joker called him over.

Jullian complied willingly, in a split second he was there by his side. He smiled when he noticed the new comer had jumped back a bit at his sudden appearance, popping up in a different place from where he once stood. It was like he was in two different places at the same time, making the blonde feel all the more leery as he made quick glances to where he once was and now is. Julian’s grin never faulted, though. It was an assuring smile, one that was warm and friendly, inviting.

The Joker had failed to notice this, though, being that he had turned back to Michael to address him. “How did you know the Titans were here? As I understand it, Heroes aren't welcome in the city and as such we were keeping our presence secret for now.”

The taller green clad teen then turned his attention to him. “If he guessed we were here, then others less desirable may have as well.”

Jules looked up at him with a calm smile. “Do not underestimate those who you do not know.”

He looked over at the city, hearing the howls and wails of past victims who now restlessly haunted the city. The evil emitting from the city was like a thick blanket of darkness, which was similar to that of the London fog. With his demon senses, Jullian could smell the overwhelming foul stench of death and decay every time the wind blew, let alone he had to sense it. In fact, he could literally taste it. Indeed, it was effecting all of his six senses.

“And don’t be so eager to shoo him away…” He spoke coolly, his expression now solemn. “Less you want him to end up like them.” He looked back at them both.

“Let the chap speak first.” He insisted, smiling once more.

“Though I will inform you that everyone does know of this city, pretty well, in fact. And there is a word out seeking for eligible recruits.” He decided to enlighten, gesturing about and being as eloquent as ever. “Heroes have come here often, most have failed. Many had died trying, while others got out while they still could, while they still had breath in their bodies. Some of those individuals, in fact, work for my mother, assisting her and helped raised me, since after leaving this dreadful place, they no longer had the heroic desires to be protagonists.”

“The only right question is, is that,” He said, shifting his eyes about as he paused for a moment, then particularly eyed the tower up and down. “Is everyone here willing to really face what lies ahead?”

Michael's blue eyes slid over to Joker who had suddenly matched pace.

'Forgive Julian, he is... eccentric, but also a very nice guy. And who says that we trust you? I only just met you, and you seemed to know that the titans were back...'

He stopped abruptly, a scary though surfacing in his mind.

'Julian, come here a second.' He said then turned back to Micheal, 'How did you know the Titans were here? As i understand it, Heroes aren't welcome in the city and as such we were keeping our presence secret for now.'

He could only blink in response. He was finally voicing his concerns now, after they had already brought him inside? Not that he expected to be trusted anyways, but this might have been a better conversation to have outside. "Well, you're not doing a very good job of being secretive, what with hiding in the one building that stands out and is known for housing heroes. On top of that, going out to cheerfully greet anyone who shows up at your doorstep? I suppose you're wondering why I'm not defending myself, but I suppose that's because I have nothing to hide. I'm not here to fight you, and I quite understand your concern. I would be pretty paranoid about strangers, too." Michael spoke seriously, his gaze directed at Joker. He crossed his arms once again, as if awaiting another distrustful response, however Julian decided to interject.

Jules looked up at Joker with a calm smile. “Do not underestimate those who you do not know... And don’t be so eager to shoo him away…” He spoke coolly, his expression now solemn. “Less you want him to end up like them.” He looked back at them both.

“Let the chap speak first.” He insisted, smiling once more.

“Though I will inform you that everyone does know of this city, pretty well, in fact. And there is a word out seeking for eligible recruits.” He decided to enlighten, gesturing about and being as eloquent as ever. “Heroes have come here often, most have failed. Many had died trying, while others got out while they still could, while they still had breath in their bodies. Some of those individuals, in fact, work for my mother, assisting her and helped raised me, since after leaving this dreadful place, they no longer had the heroic desires to be protagonists.”

“The only right question is, is that,” He said, shifting his eyes about as he paused for a moment, then particularly eyed the tower up and down. “Is everyone here willing to really face what lies ahead?”

The question was a bit vague. Michael didn't really know what was in store for him or the Titans. It was entirely possible that he wasn't ready. That he wasn't as strong as he thought. However the question at hand was 'Was he willing?' And that seemed much more straightforward. "If whatever or whoever is in that city is responsible for my eventual demise, then so be it. If they're that strong, then there's not much time left for any of us anyways..." He finally spoke with a somewhat solemn tone. Death wasn't really on his agenda. He wasn't here for some glorified suicide mission, but if there were villains that strong, sooner or later they'd find him and everyone else with power and finish them off for good.

"I'm not going to make you any promises, because I don't believe in them. They just end up being broken... but as I said before, I do think I can help. Your leader can make the call on my assistance whether to take or leave it." He added as if he didn't particularly care one way or the other. He really didn't, and perhaps a part of him wished they would tell him to leave right now so he could avoid the hassle that he obviously didn't consider very heavily before showing up. Still, the other part of him realized that he couldn't ignore what was going on in that city. Soon enough, a war was going to break out, and there wouldn't be any way to avoid it. If he could side with the Titans now, they'd have a better chance.

"And about your earlier question. I honestly didn't know you guys were here at all. So you were right. I did guess. That means more likely sooner than later, Queen Bitch or whoever it is spreading that bullshit propaganda out there, will find you. She seems to have a firm grip over the darkness that consumes that city. You're going to have your hands full..."

Though Jullian fancied himself beating around that dear old bush, he had the tendency to be, indeed, candid. Sometimes a bit too much, and when those moments struck, it would leave his audience to be quite either captivated or unnerved. His silver-tongue he could use alone as a form of weapon, a double-edged sword, indubitably one side covered in a toxic resin. In most occasions, it was either side, less it be for his jovial, yet, childish sense of humor he would use to quickly throw people off.

"If whatever or whoever is in that city is responsible for my eventual demise, then so be it. If they're that strong, then there's not much time left for any of us anyways..." Michael spoke in a solemn tone.

"So quick to write oneself off?" The dark prince thought amusedly. “Be mindful of your words, young simpleton, and choose wisely for that which you speak may come to pass. And soon behold, though as I am dead, I am ever more alive. You cannot kill that which cannot die.”

"I'm not going to make you any promises, because I don't believe in them. They just end up being broken... but as I said before, I do think I can help. Your leader can make the call on my assistance whether to take or leave it." The blonde told, alerting them the reason of whether or not he would remain here.

Jullian could sense the tug-of-war happening inside of the man’s heart, deciding whether or not he should be here. In fact, everyone here was dealing with that exact unsettling feeling, though they knew it was not wise to be here and most dreaded it, some still considered the family name they had to live up to. However, others, like this one, had their own reasons or agenda for being here.

"And about your earlier question.” Michael said, continuing. “I honestly didn't know you guys were here at all. So you were right. I did guess. That means more likely sooner than later, Queen Bitch or whoever it is spreading that bullshit propaganda out there, will find you. She seems to have a firm grip over the darkness that consumes that city. You're going to have your hands full..."

Jules was about to say something in regards towards himself, but Vlad jumped all over him. “Silence! You are no longer permitted to divulge into what should remain a secret! Learn to keep your tongue, and buckle up your lip if you must. In other words, SHUT UP. Dare not say another word. People who put their noses where they are not wanted tend to lose them. And I do intend to do more than just that.” He admonish with a dark chuckle, then paused for a moment. “Someone is coming.” He informed with a hiss.

Just then, Jullian felt it, too, sensing the darkness of the city intensify. He snapped his head, shooting his vision over towards the city, the black cloud toiling as something emerged out of it. In a flash, he noted that it was not the city itself that he was feeling, but a dark presence that was, in fact, now nearing. He narrowed his eyes, receiving a better view of the individual, who had taken the form of an aloof black bird. The Queen’s morose emissary and herald, the same girl he had spotted earlier when he had toured the city, had no doubt had been sent out to scout out for any unwanted outsiders.

“So, this is how she keeps the place “clean”.” Vladimir said with a snort.

The green skinned lad harrumphed at this, knowing that this was one of the worst times for something like this to occur, especially with his mother and Eddie on the way. If they could get inside the Tower real quickly, maybe they could avoid the chances of engaging into any conflicts. It was too soon for one.

“Pardon my rudeness, but I believe we’ve all said quite enough.” Jules spoke up, his voice filled with urgency. He turned to them both and then said; “No more questions!”

Ignoring the ridiculous looks he was receiving, he then marched right over towards the entrance, then only to stop as he stood at the doorway.

“Quickly, make haste!” He called out to them, gesturing for them to come. “Dare not be so bold to remain there standing, rudely gawking as if I had somehow lost the rest of my wit. I implore you. Let not the eyes of the Queen catch sight of you, for her herald drawls nigh.”

Harvey went to protest, but for some reason he both trusted Julian and could see the urgency in his eyes, and so, without a second thought, grabbed the blonde hair guy and quickly ran for the door, dragging the poor guy behind him.

Finally he got to the doorway and pushed Julian in, and then the boy as well.

He paused for a second, wondering if he should stop and stay outside and try and see what was going on, and maybe help the others by spying on the villains from the inside.

And his reputation for being a villain, may just help him get in almost straight away.

He turned and looked to Julian, still pondering what to do, and hoping that somehow his green friend would know what he was thinking and offer advice.

It seemed as Shadow was about to speak when he was suddenly interrupted, but since no one else had said anything, it made the situation rather odd. It was then that the well-dressed hero gazed outward and became quickly disturbed by an incoming presence.

“Pardon my rudeness, but I believe we’ve all said quite enough.” Jules spoke up, his voice filled with urgency. He turned to them both and then said; “No more questions!”

That seemed like a strange thing to say without any sort of explanation. Enough to which Michael hesitated momentarily. He turned to see if he could locate what Julian had, but the boy spoke again indicating that there simply wasn't enough time.

“Quickly, make haste!” He called out to them, gesturing for them to come. “Dare not be so bold to remain there standing, rudely gawking as if I had somehow lost the rest of my wit. I implore you. Let not the eyes of the Queen catch sight of you, for her herald drawls nigh.”

"Geez, you're wasting time talking like some sort of Shakespeare production. Is it really that hard to just say-- HEY!" Michael began, soon to be interrupted by Joker literally grabbing him by the wrist and dragging him inside. "Fine, you made your point." He growled a bit, wrenching his arm free. The black clad man sighed to himself. He didn't really want to fight anything now anyways. Of course, despite pushing both Michael and Julian inside the door, Joker seemed hesitant on getting inside himself for one reason or another. Rolling his eyes, Michael returned the dark haired man's favor and pulled him inside. "I don't know if you were thinking about playing hero there, but let us not do anything stupid."

The Joker had grabbed the two in such an alacrity that it had caught them both off guard. Well, in Jullian’s case it did, though it was not so much as the grabbing as it was being brusquely forced inside. The taller blonde would have knocked him over when he, too, was pushed inside, thankfully Jules had foreseen that and quickly moved to avoid such an awkward incident.

After he had adjusted his attire, tucking at his sleeves, the base of his coat and collar, he smiled and glanced over at his friend. His smile soon faded, however, when he realized the clone was still standing outside, looking at him for answers as to what to do. Fortuitous for the dark haired man, though, before he even dared to make such a foolhardy move to face the Queen‘s herald, the newcomer had grabbed him and pulled him inside to safety.

"I don't know if you were thinking about playing hero there, but let us not do anything stupid." Michael advised.

“Indeed.” Jullian agreed, nodding courtly as he did. However, his own curiosity nudging him to check it out himself.

“However,” he added, staring upward as he sensed the girl gyrating above the tower, which lasted for only a moment before she wandered off elsewhere. “You were too late. I’m afraid she has already caught a glimpse of us, though it could be only measured as much as that of the width of a strand of fine hair.” He looked over at the two. “But a confrontation won’t be requisite. She’s gone, her wings carrying her onward to other designations.” He knew without a doubt she was heading back over to whereabouts of the Queen of Spades.

“Clever as she may be,” He said while heading towards the official door that permitted them access go enter within the Tower. “She has the mental capacity of that of a gullible young child. That is, if that child has a wicked stepmother that has her coiled around her malevolent fingers like a red piece of thread.”

Of course, he was insinuating the fact that she could have clearly felt his life-force overwhelm the his teammates’, an energy that would never with a faintest conception ever belong to that of a “do-gooder”. He then used his psychic energy to open the door, which was easy since it was no longer locked. If it was barricaded like it was before, he was have broke it apart, disintegrating it into tiny particles, which was why he did not do it in the first place. He stepped inside, leading the way. The others followed.

Once they had returned to "the leisure room”, as he had put it, he turned to Michael with a grin.

“The one whom you seek is in the Control Room, located at the very end of this precise hallway.” He said, gesturing with his hand, pointing out the direction to where it was located, after he had sensed her out. "It was a pleasure meeting you, Michael. And I hope you find the answers that you are looking for.”

He bowed his head politely, and he never once minded how anomalous he was perceived to be. He continued to remain in this posture, like a statue pointing at something of great importance, waiting for the blonde to take his leave and wander down the hall, only then did he took it upon himself to stand up straight and "at ease" himself.

Harvey stood quietly. Great, because of his indecision, the villains most likely knew they were there now.

Kestrel really wouldn't like him after this.

He looked back to Julian and bowed his head, 'I'm sorry, I don't know what came over me.'

And with that he picked up his bag and made his way to the bedrooms, where he eventually found one and fell backwards onto the bed.

Jessi shook her head as she continued down the hall, sighing as she tried to keep the mental state her mother had insisted upon. Trying to be the stone-faced leader mom once was, however, was just beyond her. Even keeping it up for this long was starting to get frustrating. Still, she had a name to live up to, and no matter how aggitating it was to keep those appearances up, Robyn was relying on her to do so.

"At least Gram had a friggin' sense of humor once in awhile."

It was then she realized she had company, catching the shadow of the other girl on the wall and slowing her steps. "Comin' to keep me company?," She asked softly, not turning around as she smirked. "I could use it. People might start thinkin' I'm crazy if I talk to myself too much."

Approaching the doors to the control room, she waited for them to open up, glancing sidelong to her companion. "It was... ahh... Arsenal, right? Sorry for not being that sociable back there with the whole group. Unlike my mother, I'm not exactly good with public speaking. Too many people watching me at once, I feel like I'm going to say something stupid." Stepping in with the opening panels, she cringed a bit as she saw just how much equipment was waiting inside. "Woah. This.... this is gonna take awhile."

The demon prince soon found himself alone and abandoned in the room.

Jullian stared off after the raven haired boy as he left to find a room to call his own, a poignant expression written upon his features. The sky grew dark once again as he fought the urge to go after his new forlorn friend, knowing he needed to be alone. He pushed away the pained feeling swelling up inside of his chest, though the pain was not entirely his, however, more like from all of the emotions he had absorbed from this place throughout the day.

He closed his eyes. “Oh, Lachrymose, why do you pain me so?” He thought despondently to himself.

The girl containing such a name, also known as Dukkha “the purveyor of all pains and sorrows” of that which were his, gave him a dreary glimpse, her lengthy unkempt raven hair clung to her ashen face. She was fragile, like a porcelain doll, and bore scars all over her body, his scars, and she wore a tattered lacy and translucent black dress. “Because…it is in my nature, my Prince.” She replied timidly, then looked down at the ebony roses that she held in her bleeding hands, idly plucking a peddle from one of them.

Shatakshi, “the all knowing one” and keeper of his memories, stepped forward. She was a tall lady, her complexion whiter than snow, and her just as white locks were pulled back in a bun and poured down like a river of ribbons behind her. She wore a immaculate white dress similar to that of a bride, which extended yards past her feet and was almost just as lacy as her fellow emotion bearer. “By the time all of these roses are plucked bare, the sun shall set and the perpetual nightfall will inevitably come.” She informed, though it was actually a reminder. “Time grows short, my Prince. The sands in the hourglass are running out.”

The sound of diabolical laughter resonated as the two faded away into the increasing opaque fog that surrounded them. Then suddenly the wind came and just as it did it briskly began to pick up, howling eerily, like blood thirsty beasts wailing into the night.

“And when that time comes, I will arise and reveal my face.” Came Vladimir’s ominous voice. “It’s not a matter of “if”, my dear Shadow. Your time will indeed surely end. You will fall. Nothing in this world can keep you from that.”

“Alas, I am but an insect that cries out into the night, then withers and dies.” Jullian thought glumly. Time and time again he was reminded of the outcome, his twisted fate to be engulfed by the black abyss of eternal sleep. When that time came, he would no doubt be beckoned by Supti, “the bringer of sleep”, to lie there in that grave that had long since been prepared for him.

A red portentous light grew not so far in the distance, enveloping a dark figure who sat upon a rather large and ostentatious throne. The figure twiddled her fingers in anticipation, her red eyes blazing like infernos. She cackled in his direction, her long fangs glistening as she did.

“Fool, you are a god amongst those insects! Must you incessantly consider yourself less?” She chided tersely, wagging a finger at him. “I will not have myself think so lowly of me.” She then added; “You are fortunate your shields have kept me here for so long, Prince. However, you will not be able to forever contain me here in the far regions of your mind.”

“As long as I am still awake, and as long I am strong, you will be.” He replied with uttermost determination. “As for now, you have no power over me.”

Trigon threw her head back, shrilling with depraved laughter. “You amuse me so.” She stated, not one bit phased by his words.

He snapped his eyes open, hearing a sudden familiar tune, a sure sign that his cell phone was ringing. He reached into his left pocket and delicately pulled it out, then held it up in front of him with his finger and thumb. He grinned at it like a Cheshire Cat, oddly amused at his current ring tone of choice, and waited for a moment as he listened to song before actually answering it. It was a different ring tone than his usual. Of course, he knew who was on the other end of the line.

“Jullian James Logan!” Came his mother’s voice on the other end.

The sky outside immediately cleared when heard the sound of his mother’s voice, informing him that they had just arrived. Of course, she chided him for leaving like he did, her worried voice could be heard quite clearly, so much he had to hold the phone a foot away from his very ear. You could hear Eddie in the background trying to get her to calm as she raised a fit, a fit that only a mother could do best. Finally, when she had relaxed, she began asking him a bundle load of questions, and all at once, too.

Jullian tried to answer them all as she did; “Yes, mother dearest, I am fine. Yes, I know. No, ma’am. No, ma’am. Yes, I brushed my teeth. Yes, I am wearing clean underwear. No. No. What makes you say that? Me, getting into trouble? No, I am not hurt. No one hurt me. What do you mean “explain the unusual climate changes”?”

“Don’t try to weasel yourself out of it, Jamie! I know you too well to be fooled into believing otherwise!” She reproached on the other end. “And any mother who has you for a child, your Majesty, would know… It rains because you’re sad, baby.” She said the latter rather somberly, causing the teen to fall silent. She then later added; “Okay, I’m going to hang up now. I need to land this thing.”

With that, the phone call ended. Jullian closed his phone and tucked it away back into his pocket. He stood there for a moment, wondering if he should go and great them at the entrance, even though he was aware that his mother absolutely knew how to get into the Tower.

Just then Edward appeared, teleporting his way into the place. “J.J.!” He cried out ecstatically, happy to see his ward.

The demon had not changed much in appearance when he was here years ago, only now he had tattoos in random places all over his body, but mostly on his arms and back. And never being the one to acquaint himself with a shirt, he only managed to wear a pair of black gothic and loose fitting pants that had straps clipped around him from both sides, draping in the back, and miniature belt straps buckled around his thighs. He also wore a pair of black boots that came up past his ankles, black rock star wrist bands and a matching collar to boot. Yes, he was certainly not someone who you would imagine to be an excellent parental figure, and neither was he. In fact, he had always been a bad influence in the dark prince’s life, teaching him the tools of the trade in how to use his demonic powers, that and among many other things.

Jullian’s grin somehow broadened all the more when he saw the red skinned and white haired demon, appearing all the more deranged. And with an impulsive idea, which was quite common with him when dealing with his caretaker, he decided to change his appearance entirely, minus the color of his skin, hair, and eyes. Being that of an androgyny from the start, he could choose to be whichever gender he liked, male or female, both, or neither.

His shadow encased him once again like it had earlier, only this time when he emerged he twirled around on pivoting on one foot, and this time he was a voluptuous female. She had an hourglass shape, baby doll legs, a large bosom, and her hair now long and went past his underside. Her clothing style was that of Lolita, a two sided dress, black in the front and white in the back, ended about her knees with a lacy petticoat underneath, a white and vertically black striped corset, and a lacy black top with short frou-frou sleeves that hugged her upper arms. She also wore matching black and white gloves and platform boots, white tights with black floral pattern designs lined on both sides of each leg, and a black top hat with long beaded pins protruding from the back, the hat also have a black and white laced ribbon tied around the base of it’s diameter.

“Eddie!” Jullian cheered, her voice had also changed, now matching her femininity.

The two grinned at each other before Jules rushed over to greet her guardian, running into his waiting arms. She latched her arms around the taller demon’s neck who then held her as he spun her around a few times, the two laughing merrily like children. Once he set her down back onto her feet, he knelt down onto one knee and took her by her right hand and kissed it softly, then looked up into her smiling gaze.

“My Princess! My girl, my sweet little girl!” He said admiringly. “Not only are you The Prince of Darkness, but you are also a Queen!” He paused, sniffling lightheartedly. “Seeing you here, taking this step in your life, makes me proud that you are my ward! And I must say, you are as light as ever! You could easily float away on a cloud!”

Jullian chuckled. “Eddie, you card, you!” She gestured for him to stand.

Eddie obeyed, only then to lean down and kiss her upon the forehead. He cupped her face, fondling the silky-smooth texture of her chlorite skin. “You haven’t been up into any trouble, have you?” He asked, looking her keenly in the eyes, then tilted his head ever so slightly to the side.

The young girl smiled innocently at him, grinning ear to ear. “That, sir, is poppycock.” She answered sweetly.

The red man raised a brow at her, then chuckled as he closed his eyes. “How come I find it so hard to believe you?” He opened his eyes again and asked another question; “Tell me, dear Princess. I bet you went snooping around the city, haven’t you?” His tone rather accusing.

Jules shifted her eyes from side to side before she answered; “…Perhaps.”

His eyes widened. “Don’t feed me hogwash, Jules! Your mother is going to maim me if she finds out that you had cavorted around amongst the filth that has enslaved this vile city!” He reproved, then cursed and sighed under his breath. “You know what they say, “curiosity killed the cat”. And if you don’t watch yourself, something terrible might happen to you, AGAIN.”

The princess of darkness tittered, sensing his overwhelming anxiety over her wellbeing. “…I learned it from the best?” She replied, trying to get herself off the hook.

Her voice abruptly became dark and baleful, a wanton glint in her eyes as she then added; “Besides, if the miscreant fools even had dared laid a finger upon me, I assure you, my valued confidential, I would have given them a proper lesson in violence. I promise that these daffy sad excuses of villains will never see the light of day again. And if they were fortuitist, they would spend their last moments praying to an impotent god. I need not lift a finger, if I wished not to.” Those words belonged to none other than Vlad himself. “Alas, that did not transpire. Pity, it would have been uttermost intriguing to see them struggle, if not in the least entertaining.”

“Splendid, my Sovereign Lady.” He said, knowing quite well who had spoken, then took in a deep breath and sighed once more. He turned back to the previous subject, covering up the teenager’s malevolent statements. “Yes, well… If your mother finds out you toured the city, Princess, you can be sure to say “farewell” to freedom and “salutations” to living back once more inside that wonderfully cozy estate of our’s.”

"Calm yourself, dear Edward, they did not hear a single word of it." Vladimir informed him psychically. "I made sure of that."

After hearing that, the red demon sighed in relief. It was something no one needed to learn of the poor young childe. Though, if the heir had confided in someone else, therein lied a reason as to why.

Jullian’s eyes widened as she immediately snapped out her dark side‘s influence, hearing the words he had spoken, and not sure if Eddie was actually going to tittle-tattle on her or not. He was always the one whom she could go to with personal matters, the only time he ever really revealed anything to her mother was when “her life was at stake”.

He then smiled and winked at her, assuring her she had nothing to worry about. “Aren’t you lucky to be my protégé?” He prattled, then pinched her cheeks gently.

The girl chortled at first in response. “Sincerely? I am indeed blessed beyond reckoning, my good Monsieur!”

Eddie took a step back from her, his hands now resting upon her shoulders. “So tell me, Princess. What have you been up to since you’ve been here?” He inquired, expecting her to give details. “You haven’t been terrifying any of your teammates, have you?”

Jullian grinned toothily. She reached up and gently tapped him on his forehead with her index finger. In a flash, she delivered her story in excruciating detail, using her powers to transfer him the information she was willing to provide him with.

Images played in his mind like film placed in a fast-forward motion, seeing what she had seen, knowing what she knew. Once the conveyed message was finished, he stared down at her with wide out for a moment before he then began to snicker. After seeing the way everyone had responded to his young ward, he did not know whether to be amused or be greatly irate at them, especially a certain someone who had harmed her and threatened to slay her. Okay, he was enraged with him, but he was not about to show it, not right now. He did not wish to ruin such a moment, seeming how good it was right of now.

He scraped his top fangs across his bottom lip, biting back his anger. He breathed a laugh and then smiled once more. “My dear Princess…” He crooned, teasingly. “Truly, you are an author of confusion. A bloody brilliant one, I might add, whether it is intentional or otherwise.” He tapped her on the nose.

Just then her mother came bursting spontaneously through the doors of the room that they currently stood in, a wide grin across her countenance as she then to announce her presence out loud so that those who resided here could hear. “I’M BACK, BABY! BEAST GIRL IS BACK IN THE HOUSE!”

The woman’s face immediately fell, however, when she realized that no one else was in the room but those two. She became quite peevish with the revelation. “Where the bloody hell is everyone?” She demanded with a huff, her hands resting on her hips. "Some grand party this is."

Geraldine had not changed much at all, except her dark green hair was now longer and was the length of her daughter’s, and her breasts had became a lot fuller and she was a lot more curvy in figure than she was when she was once a Titan. Not only that, but now that she had became a full pledged demon, she also did not age once single bit, still youthful as ever. However, being that it was her sole duty to bring money to their affluent lifestyle, she naturally now sported a dressy work suit for her attire. Her dress suit was black, and she wore black pantyhose along with a matching pair of polished leather dress shoes, the kind that professional working women would wear, which had heels that were “all the better to kick your ass with”.

However, her annoyed expression did not last for long, for her eyes had immediately brightened when she realized her child was standing there before her. Tears swelled up in her golden eyes before she then hastily ran over to the girl, as quickly as her legs would permit her to, which was similar to the speed of lightning. On her last step, she leapt out like a pouncing tiger attacking it’s prey.

“MY BABY!” Beast Girl cried before she clung to her progeny, platonically smothering the poor hell spawn with hugs and kisses.

“I am…very…delighted…to see…you,…too,…Mother.” Jullian managed to utter out between the kisses and the bear hugs. She began to writhe frantically when the older woman’s embrace became all the more tighter.

Edward tried to contain his laughter at the awkward sight, holding himself as he did, only to fail miserably as it all came bursting out. Some things never grow old.

“You were too late. I’m afraid she has already caught a glimpse of us, though it could be only measured as much as that of the width of a strand of fine hair.” Julian glanced over. “But a confrontation won’t be requisite. She’s gone, her wings carrying her onward to other designations.” He knew without a doubt she was heading back over to whereabouts of the Queen of Spades.

“Clever as she may be,” He said while heading towards the official door that permitted them access go enter within the Tower. “She has the mental capacity of that of a gullible young child. That is, if that child has a wicked stepmother that has her coiled around her malevolent fingers like a red piece of thread.”

Michael followed, though he took a moment to glance behind him. So, it was only a matter of time now until battle broke out, supposedly. He felt ready, but truth be told, he had no idea what he was up against. For once, maybe something could incite fear into him. It had been so long since he had been afraid of anything. Perhaps that was the true reason he was here. To actually feel alive.

With that, the entered the tower. The halls seemed rather hallow and empty, as if they had been vacant for some time. Of course, that was because the tower had been abandoned for some time, but it was surprising that no one had come to occupy it in the Titans' absence. As they made their way through, eventually the group ended up at a recreational room, to which Julian turned back toward the taller man, grinning in a way that was almost disturbing to someone whom had been separated from such glee for some time now.

“The one whom you seek is in the Control Room, located at the very end of this precise hallway.” He gestured down the hallway. "It was a pleasure meeting you, Michael. And I hope you find the answers that you are looking for.” He concluded, bowing politely.

Michael looked confused momentarily. Had he been seeking someone? Oh yes, their leader. He had almost forgotten what he had planned on saying to her. The same things he had told Julian and Harvey, he supposed. Before leaving, he nodded to Julian if to silently thank him. He didn't really know what else to say at this point. It was almost as if he and the shorter kid were exact opposites. Michael was a man of few words and fewer emotions. Would being around someone like Julian be an annoyance or something he needed? Only time would tell.

Slipping his hands back into the pockets of his long, onyx coat, Michael ventured down the hall toward the supposed Control Room, eventually reaching the door where he hesitated for a moment. Finally, he raised his hand as if to knock on the large, metallic door but it soon opened for him, leaving him standing there to face not one, but two long-haired woman. He stood silently at first, his hand still raised in confusion until he eventually opened his palm to turn it into a slight wave.

"Er.. Yes, hello. Who's in charge here?" He glanced between the two, hoping his sudden appearance wouldn't be viewed as hostile.

"My parents are diabolical." The Atlantean Prince stated as he gazed at his reflection within the mirror with an expression of noticeable distaste etched upon his features, all the while his eyes continued surveying the apparently favored choice of clothing which were presently wrapped around his body.

Ronan figured it had to be part of his Father's idea of ribbing the lad after his weeks and even months of complaints, since this particular shirt was already laid out upon his bed to make certain it was the first article of clothing he came across. There were other tops which he could chose from which didn't have such a mocking declaration of his heritage, of course, but few of them felt as comfortable when placed upon his form as this one. The blond knew he needed to work on growing more accustomed to dressing in such fabrics, especially since he didn't wish to dress in any 'official' costume, but figured he'd make due with what felt the best on him for the time being. All the same, he could only fathom a guess over how the older male had talked his wife into agreeing on such a silly item.

Letting out a parting groan, the blond simply shook his as he stepped away from the mirror and resumed in studying his new room. Fortunately, since Ronan hadn't brought anything but the previous clothes on his back and a wet suit, he didn't need to worry about straightening out in here as everything was already put in place in advance. This simple but moderately sized room was a far cry from what he grew up with, but the Prince had to confess that it wasn't nearly as bad when compared with those low expectations he held previous to arrival. Plus, it came with a few choice items which he asked to be sent in advance, such as the locket which he scooped up from the top of his dresser.

The item was made of gold, with several Atlantean symbols inscribed upon the surface. As he held the trinket in his hand, a push of a button at its side caused the life long belonging to open up; revealing an airtight compartment with a single photo taken years ago. Staring at the image, the young male felt a smile spread across his features as he gazed upon the couple whose special moment was captured in a photograph so long ago. Looking at the infant in Ula's arms, it was a wonder he grew so tall after coming into this world as such a runt of a thing. At least this photo, which resulted from one of the few inventions he grew to accept from human society, served as a constant reminder of why he was given the name he carried proudly to this day.

Snapping the locket shut, Ronan stuffed the cherished belonging into his pocket for safe keeping; least until he needed to leave it behind in favor of performing 'superhero' duties. But those was concerns for later, assuming no other pissed off family members showed up in the Tower, as he gaze a parting cursory glance of his room before heading out to resume mingling with his supposed team mates. The halls of the Tower seemed relatively inactive at the moment, meaning everyone was likely either working toward getting settled into the place or had wised up and were on their way back home. The Prince assumed it the former, since his luck had never been so fortunate for the latter to be anything more then wishful thinking on his part. Maybe he should have picked out a costume? At least then he could claim it somebody else under the mask years later.

His inner monologue of grumblings and nitpicks were interrupted as he heard voices coming from one section of the Tower. None of which sounded particularly familiar, though he realized there wasn't enough interaction with the other Titans for him to truly grow accustomed toward any of their voices at this point. Nonetheless, it was a sign of activity, thus leading to his feet carrying the young half-breed toward what others would dub the 'leisure room.' Closing the gap between himself and the entranceway, Ronan stood with a raised eyebrow as he took in the sight of three unfamiliar figures embracing and greeting each other like it a were the tail end of some twisted family reunion. Things like this often made the Prince wonder if these people didn't simply take up the never-ending battle between good and evil for lack of acceptance into any other walk of life.

"Uh, excuse me, but did I take a wrong turn back there and somehow wind up in a completely different secret headquarters for super powered oddities?" The Atlantean suddenly spoke up with a hint of sarcasm as he raised a hand to rub at the back of his head, his eyes slowly moving between the three figures as a questioning expression remained etched upon his features.

Actually, now that he could take in a better look at the trio, he could almost put his finger on the identity of the male and the older green female. Despite his previous comments on neither caring about the parents of the other Titans or their past history, Ronan was finding himself wishing he'd paid a little more attention to the images provided for former members and allies of the team. Maybe then he wouldn't be questioning whether or not they should start carrying flaming clubs like the ones described in those old monster movies his father told him about.

"Hey, if you could hand me that flashlight over there, behind that little door- I can barely see in this damn thing, I could maybe-" Kestel cut short as a sudden arc came from the wiring in her hand, hastily letting go of it and pulling her hands away. "What the hell-?!"

A sour expression coming to her face, she slid her fingers through her hair before dropping to a squat before the tangled mess, peering into it and using a more delicate approach. "You'd think an instruction manual would come with a place this full of tech. Or at least an electrical warning." Still wrestling with some of the wires, she glanced up slightly as the door opened once more, revealing a rather lost-eyed young man looking at them both, a hand raised with a quick wave in their direction.

"Er.. Yes, hello. Who's in charge here?"

In charge?

Jessi blinked a moment at that, glancing back to Arsenal, then realizing that the chain of command for the previous Titans left her with that title.

Craaap.

"I... suppose that would be me." Straightening back up, she wiped her hands on the jeans she still wore, haing not bothered to put on her costume. It seemed the group was in a split decision on if such things were needed at the moment anyway, especially with the whole heroes-should-die vibe going through the city thanks to the dark control holding the reins around here. Not exactly the most welcoming environment to go running around in spandex and declaring your war against evil.

Hands now... semi clean, she folded them across her chest, resuming once more the stance she had seen so often from Robyn during her own questioning sessions with the former Titan. "Something I can help you with?" She tried to keep the solemn look to her face, but still cringed and made a face as another wire sparked beside her, giving the metal unit housing it a quick kick with her foot before attempting to return to her previous expression.

Harvey finished looking round his rather spartan room and sighed. Except for a few bit of clothes, a photograph and a few books, the room was empty.

Then he chuckled. The titans sure were going to have fun coping with his sudden changes of emotion.

Still smiling, he left the room and looked around. One thing which had surprised him, he remembered, was that no-one had settled in the abandoned building.

Mind you.... who would want to live in a house that formerly was the base of a group of superheroes? No, you leave it as a reminder...

He quickly chided himself, and reached the bottom of the stairs and found himself stood next to the atlantean and facing a red demon and two green girls.

Great, another member.... hang on.... thats... no....

Actually, if the grown ups were who he thought they were then... that must be...

Unless he had a sister, but why would they be greeting each other like that?

No... it had to be...

'Actually Ronan,' He grinned, as clarity formed, 'This is Beast Babe.... errr... I mean Beast Girl and errr....' He paused trying to remember a name, 'errr... Red-Devil?... They were titans, but i'm sure you knew that. And as for the girl...'

Should it say it? He could be completely wrong and this could be oh so very embarrassing....

'I think the girl is Julian...' He looked to the trio, 'Am I right? Do I win a prize?'

"I... suppose that would be me." The woman responded, seemingly unsure of her position. Looking her over a bit more closely, Michael was actually rather relieved that not everyone in this place was dressed up for a fashion show in the spandex dimension. Then again, if there was anyone worth seeing in tight outfits, it would be the female members of the team. The dark-haired girl also present in the room proved this. This other girl was no different, even if she wasn't in as revealing of an outfit. His appreciation of her soon made the black-clad man realize he was in a rather awkward position of standing there and observing her without speaking. To which the supposed leader questioned him before he could say anything else.

"Something I can help you with?"

"Not here for your help, rather to offer you mine... The.. short, green one directed me to you..." Michael finally spoke up again, as if he never really intended on actually seeing the leader and asking permission to join. The fact that she hasn't even asked who he was seemed a bit off, but from what Michael had gathered so far, they were just forming up. She may have just assumed he was another member.

"Michael Dalton, at your service.." He bowed lightly, though his voice was laced with sarcasm as if he knew his wording was silly and old-fashioned. Maybe Julian was rubbing off on him already.. Michael then noticed the auburn-haired woman's reaction to a sudden electrical spark which he considered rather amusing, enough to make him smirk lightly. Wasn't very different from how he'd handle things malfunctioning around him.

"If you wish some of that help right now, I'm sure I can provide some assistance. A few shocks never have been much of an issue for me.."

Several minutes past before the former Titan released her replacement, if she had held her any longer, she would have probably fainted from the lack of air. Scratch that. Demons really did not need air, though it was down right uncomfortable to be breathless, especially when you are accustomed to breathing like anyone else. After all, you needed breath to speak.

Eddie had quieted a moment ago and moved to now stand beside Ex-Titan, grinning cheekily at his protégé.

After quickly catching her breath, Jullian curtsied before her mother. “I trust you have made a safe journey, mother?” She inquired, standing up straight again.

“Yes, your Majesty, but it is I who should really be asking YOU that question.” Beast Girl countered, raising an eyebrow at her offspring. “You left the safety of the Estate, my child, and without my consents. Can you not recall upon me insisting you to wait until I had returned before making such an impromptu step ahead of me?” She said so admonishingly, causing the young girl to look at her contritely. “You were to wait until my business was finished with the Duke and his meddlesome apparatchik so I could properly escort you abroad.”

“My apologies, mother dearest.” Jullian answered, then promptly changed the subject. “How far goes the Duke and the Marquis?”

“The Duke? Truthfully?” Her mother stood back a bit and thought for a moment, placing her hands onto her hip again, and then shook her head. “Grating as ever.” She began in an exasperated tone. “The nerve of that man sometimes. Though, my requisitions to unleash you from your restraints had not fallen unto deaf ears THIS time. I made sure of that!” She said the last two lines rather smugly, emphasizing the words in the latter of the two statements .

The young demon’s eyes widened. "I dare say, you did not hurt the man did you?” She blinked as she suddenly felt the presence of the others drawing near, but paid them no mind.

“Let’s just say he’ll live.” The older woman enlightened, musing over it with amusement. “And that lump on his forehead will take weeks for at least the swelling to go down.”

Jullian winced at the thought of it, her mother no doubt had slammed her briefcase against his head. “And what of Sir Miles? Do I dare to even ask?” She asked concernedly, feeling a tinge of regret that she did.

“Oh, I needn’t worry about him.” She guaranteed with a grin. “One look from me, and he eluded me like something scarce, so did the rest of the court.”

The dark princess pursed her lips, giving her mother a look of disapproval.

“No one calls my child an “aberrational abomination” and gets away with it!” She declared, grinning spitefully. “They were almost as tiresome as “His Holiness” The Pope! Men and their religiosity!” She paused for a moment. “Though, I did receive support from the New Queen of England herself.”

“Pardon me, but could you come again?” Jules responded in astonishment. “New Queen? Do you mean… Princess Ophelia?”

“The very one!” She answered delightedly. “She was more than happy to oblige!” She paused for as moment as her smiled faded into a frown, letting loose of her hips as her shoulders slumped down a bit. “Although, I feel sad for the poor girl. Her Most Gracious Majesty passed away last month, the poor dear. I surmise that losing her King fifteen years ago could have done anyone in, especially since she mourned after him so. They had been together for so long, I am surprised she made it this far without him.”

Jullian‘s eyes lowered to the floor, her eyes hazy as she gazed at nothing in particular, grimacing as she gave a moment of silence. “I send my condolences.” She said as she looked back up at her mother. “But… She will indeed make a strong, yet, benevolent and beautiful Queen.”

“That she will.” Her mother agreed. “Though they are having a bit of trouble with getting her to wed.”

Jules quirked a brow. “Oh?”

Beast Girl smirked and said; “She keeps turning down every suitor she receives, sending them out the moment they set foot in her presence. She said she did not care if she became “the next Queen Elizabeth”, in fact, she found it to be quite an honor.”

The two older demons snickered together.

Jules tried to stifle her chuckles. Leave it to Ophelia to be so stubborn willed. Heck, she was surprised that they even had became old childhood friends. Jullian would spend time with her every time Beast Girl went to pay the Queen a visit and spend a day chatting together. The former Titan and the Queen had became close friends after the defeat of Mad Mod, who once made a foiled attempt to take over England, before that he tried to steal her Royal Scepter.

“I believe you have left a mark, my Prince.” The older woman said, then gave a heavenly sigh. “She speaks so fondly of you. Enamored by you.”

“Yeah, you little Casanova!” Eddie teased, reaching over to rub his hand through the younger girl’s hair.

Jullian flushed furiously as he did, purring a bit. “What? Me? No.” She said, denying the red demon’s statement as he gently removed his hand. “Pray tell, what could she possibly see in me?” She inquired humbly.

The two gave him a dubious look, wondering if he was joking.

“Hmm, let me think.” Her mother tapped her chin, pretending to think for a moment. “Besides the fact that you are a captivating young individual, gifted with a quick wit and silver tongue, let alone have phenomenal cosmic powers?” She said rather drolly. “What girl would not want a Prince who permits her to play with his hair and also be willing to play dress up without any remonstrations or complaints?” She laughed. “You’re practically a girl’s best friend!”

Jullian’s cheeks turned all the more red. Now that she thought about it, most of her “friends” were, in fact, females, though she knew a lot of males as well. However, she considered them all to be acquaintances, while her best friends were Alice and Mallory. In this world, you either liked her or hated her, at least that is how it has been so far.

“Oh!” Beast Girl said as she finally remember something. “And Anoop sends his word to tell you to “visualize your goal”.” She mimicked his words.

Eddie went up behind the younger girl, leaning down to place his head beside her own, grasping onto her shoulders. “Remember that one time he told you to do that?” He brought up, wiggling his brows deviously.

Jullian blushed again. How could she forget such an incident? The event being an utter embarrassment to the young girl. There the Guru was, trying to teach her to control her powers, using her mind to move two simple objects alone, which happened to be metal spears, the kind you use to release stress and tension. Meaningless to say, the man soon found more than tension in his groin when she accidentally hurled them into his direction. The poor man screamed at high pitch, right at the top of his lungs, and his eyes nearly popped right out of his head. Of course, he forgave her, but he could not walk for weeks.

The two adults guffawed, remembering it as well since they had actually been there when it had happened. The red demon mimicked the man's reaction to the pain he had felt, hold himself and making high pitched squeaking noises.

“Yes, well…” Jules spoke nervously, shifting her eyes to and fro. “Fortunately, he is initially not from this world, or else it could have ended up dire.”

“True! But,” Eddie said between laughs, wrapping his arms around her from behind. “Such a circumstance makes me wonder what you were thinking, Princess!” He picked her up, causing her legs to dangle over a foot off of the ground.

The younger girl squealed. The trio laughed merrily.

"Uh, excuse me,” came the Atlantean’s voice, causing the three to fall silent and look over at him, they noticed that another Titan was standing with him. “But did I take a wrong turn back there and somehow wind up in a completely different secret headquarters for super powered oddities?"

The Atlantean Prince. She almost forgot about him, knowing full well he had been standing there for quite some time now, longer than her new friend, the Joker. She was just so wrapped up with her little family reunion, whom she probably would not be seeing for quite some time after they leave.

The trio smiled at them. The older demon gently placed his princess down, lowering her back onto her feet.

“Actually Ronan,” The ebony haired teen spoke informatively to the blonde, trying to clarify who was who. “This is Beast Babe... errr... I mean Beast Girl and errr…” He paused for a moment, think. “Errr... Red-Devil?... They were Titans, but I’m sure you knew that. And as for the girl…”

Jullian ambled over towards them, then stopped in place as she stood before them several yards away, sporting a cheesy grin. The other two remained in place, but they could be seen standing in the distance behind her.

“I think the girl is Julian…” He said, guessing that last one, looking over at the three of them. “Am I right? Do I win a prize?”

The room dimmed and a spotlight immediately appeared on the teens.

“Congratulations!” She cheered, imitating a game show host, freakishly containing the voice of one. She twirled on one foot then posed theatrically, remaining on that one foot while holding out one hand, palm facing upward, gesturing to him. “WE HAVE A WINNER!”

The shadows came alive as there was sounds of clapping and cheering, which appeared to be many replicas of herself. Several of them held up signs, while a few waved at the wearer of green. They stood in what appeared to be a stadium, and one of her duplicates toppled over the edge and fell onto the floor.

Jullian appeared right beside her friend, leaning slightly against him, grinning up at him. “You’ve won this one, my friend!” She said, her previous voice had returned, and with a flick of her wrist, everything went back to normal. “Say whatever it is you desire, and I shall bestow it to you.”

She then appeared before them again, waltzing her way into place in a fervent spin. “But first! I shall introduce you both to our guests!” She chirped, grinning ear to ear.

“Mother, my highly amused guardian, Edward… BEHOLD!” She spoke, quickly zipping to the side so they may see the Prince. “The strapping, tall, young blonde before you both, standing at the height of six foot one, though he may seem a bit standoffish, but we all know deep down he is a diamond in the rough-- Is The Atlantean Prince Ronan. Progeny of Ula, Queen of the Idyllist, and Terran Markov.” She gestured to him, then curtseyed.

She then zipped over to the other side and gestured to the raven haired teen, the other hand behind her back. “And this mystery man with ebony hair, standing at approximately five foot eleven, though despite his villainy semblance, he is quite affable, and is my newest friend-- Joker!” She announced, then cupped a hand beside her mouth. “And no, you can rest assured that he is NOT that Joker, folks.”

Her mother walked over to them of them. “It’s nice to meet you both.” She said, then looked at the aquatic Prince. She then grinned at him and said; “I see your parents finally made it together. I always knew that they were meant for each other!” She placed a hand over her mouth as she then giggled. “…Took them long enough, though.”

Eddie then joined them, only to wrap his arms around Jullian's shoulders, plopping his head on top of her own, kissing the top of it before he did so. He grinned devilishly at the boys.

The appearance of Harvey had caught Ronan off guard, which was a minor slip up he'd likely scold himself over at a later point in time. At the moment, his attention was more focused upon the revelation of the mystery trios identities. Particularly Jullian, whom it seemed could switch genders like certain types of animal life forms on this planet; though he doubted the teens abilities were of natural earthly origin. And then he watched in wide eyed confusion as the green skinned teen somehow used his, her, its powers to create an artificial audience as he congratulated Joker over his correct guess. And now the Atlantean Prince actually was wishing he'd somehow stepped into the wrong headquarters. At least then he'd have just cause for slowly backing out the way he came and never looking back.

As the shadow audience vanished, leaving them with only Jullian's lone antics to contend with, he started to assume things would return to whatever passed as normalcy around here. The moment the younger changeling started up with her (his, its, whatever) introductions of himself and Harvey, however, these hopes were abruptly shattered like so much fine China.

“Mother, my highly amused guardian, Edward… BEHOLD! The strapping, tall, young blonde before you both, standing at the height of six foot one, though he may seem a bit standoffish, but we all know deep down he is a diamond in the rough-- Is The Atlantean Prince Ronan. Progeny of Ula, Queen of the Idyllist, and Terran Markov.”

Diamond in the rough, the young Prince silently repeated with a look of confusion as his lips started mouthing the words to himself. It was an expression he'd been familiar with, but the comparison had caught him slightly by surprise since, in his mind, he'd reacted rather understandably when one considered the happenings of the past day. Although he couldn't completely deny the standoffish remark, and didn't care so much since he wasn't exactly in this to make friends. Granted, he also wasn't here to attempt in making enemies, which caused him to question if he should try to make a better effort at getting along with these people. Well, perhaps not these people, but certainly others on this new team of heroes.

Once Jullian finished the introductions for Harvey and himself, it seemed as if it were Beast Girl's time to take in a closer look at two of her child's team mates. In spite of meaning what he said earlier about his lack of caring over the relationships their parents had with each other, Ronan actually did feel a twinge of nervousness at having the green skinned woman this close to him. Fortunately, it seemed she was either over his fathers mistakes of the past, or shared a similar outlook of not connecting the offspring with the sins or glory of their parents. Not that it truly mattered for the aquatic lad, as either one worked well enough for himself.

“I see your parents finally made it together. I always knew that they were meant for each other! …Took them long enough, though.”

"Um, thank you?" The Prince finally let out as his expression was filled with a look of confusion before the former Titan, not really knowing what more to say in response, but assuming it was his turn to compliment the woman in a similar fashion, "I'm...glad to see you've rebounded from my father breaking it off with you all those years ago?"

Glancing over at the grinning Red Devil whom was wrapped around Beast Girl's little hell spawn, Ronan put things together on his own and ran with the assumption he arrived from this, "Red and Green skin goes well together, I suppose. And you have a rather interesting so....dau....well, your prodigy is an incredibly gifted individual."

That was one way of putting it without becoming unnecessarily offensive or outright lying to Beast Girl when it came to his opinion of young Jullian. Granted, much of the Atlantean's soured opinion of the gender swapping teen was a result of his initial annoyance over the half-brother which, for whatever reason, was apparently being allowed to stay in the Tower after threatening one of their own in front of the rest. Nepotism at work, much like the criteria which seemed to explain why the majority of this team had their places on the roster.

When it came to Eddie, it initially seemed the self proclaimed Red Devil was as good a guess as any other for the person responsible for fertilizing Geraldine's eggs; at least until the teens introduction stated otherwise. Whether it be for a lack of knowledge or something else, his parents hadn't mentioned who the father of Beast Girl's offspring, and it wasn't until now that he started growing curious on the subject. Either way, even if Jullian hadn't pointed the grinning male out as a simple guardian, it was rather evident that he played a vital part in raising and teaching the young man. Girl. Person. Whatever. Ronan made a mental note about eventually trying to decide upon proper terms when addressing his fellow team mate in the future.

"In either case, it's a unique pleasure to meet you both." The Prince stated simply as he briefly lowered his head as a means of respect to those whom set the stage for their faction in the past, before turning his attention toward both Jullian and Harvey respectfully, though he didn't really know whom exactly he was supposed to address his following question at, "Look, I didn't mean to intrude on anything between family and friends, but I was wondering if there was anything planned for today's agenda after we were settled in around here?"

Glancing between Harvey and the three members of Jullian's peculiar family, Ronan didn't have that perplexed expression on his face anymore, but nonetheless appeared as if he were somewhat uncomfortable around others as he added in a nonchalant manner, "If not, then I suppose there are other ways to busy oneself around this place. Or I can simply go back to my room and find other means of amusing myself."

If a certain speedster were here, he would have had to attempt in stifling a snicker at that last comment, made by the young Atlantean in apparent ignorance to the potential innuendo.

The room dimmed and a spotlight immediately appeared on the appeared on Harvey and Ronan.

“Congratulations!” Julian cheered happily dancing around before pointing at him, and Harvey realized that this must be something akin to a television show... Hmm, he must remember to watch one at some point. “WE HAVE A WINNER!”

Harvey almost laughed as Ronan's awkwardness became apparent as sounds of clapping and cheering began to emanate from all around them.

Harvey grinned as Jullian appeared right beside him, leaning slightly against his side, grinning up at him. “You’ve won this one, my friend! Say whatever it is you desire, and I shall bestow it to you.”

Oohh... He would have to take him up on at that at some point.. He chuckled at the thought, as he suddenly pictured Julian looking like a genie.

“But first! I shall introduce you both to our guests!” Smiled Julian, that was another thing... why wasn't he surprised that Beast Girl was Julian's mother?

Who knew?

“Mother, my highly amused guardian, Edward… BEHOLD!” Julian spoke quickly before presenting the prince. “The strapping, tall, young blonde before you both, standing at the height of six foot one, though he may seem a bit standoffish, but we all know deep down he is a diamond in the rough-- Is The Atlantean Prince Ronan. Progeny of Ula, Queen of the Idyllist, and Terran Markov.”

Harvey almost groaned as it became apparent that he would the next to be introduced. What would Julian's parent think when they realized that their son was on a team with a former super-villain?

“And this mystery man with ebony hair, standing at approximately five foot eleven, though despite his villainy semblance, he is quite affable, and is my newest friend-- Joker!” She announced, then cupped a hand beside her mouth. “And no, you can rest assured that he is NOT that Joker, folks.”

If Harvey had owned a gun, it would have being pointed at his head.

Beast Girl walked over to them of them. “It’s nice to meet you both.” She smiled, before turning her attention to the young prince. “I see your parents finally made it together. I always knew that they were meant for each other!…Took them long enough, though.”

Then Edward appeared behind the other two and grinned, and Harvey smiled at the happy, albiet strange, family.

He wished that he had had a family, sure, he had had Jenny but....


"Um, thank you?" Ronan finally spoke and instantly had one of those sinking feelings, "I'm...glad to see you've rebounded from my father breaking it off with you all those years ago?"

Harvey merely looked at the prince somewhat shocked, by god this kid had a lot to learn.

"Red and Green skin goes well together, I suppose. And you have a rather interesting so....dau....well, your prodigy is an incredibly gifted individual."

Oh yay! The atlantean seemed to enjoy digging a hole, though it was apparent that he was attempting to be nice.

"In either case, it's a unique pleasure to meet you both."

Leave it at that... Please to the love of everything leave it at that....

"Look, I didn't mean to intrude on anything between family and friends, but I was wondering if there was anything planned for today's agenda after we were settled in around here? If not, then I suppose there are other ways to busy oneself around this place. Or I can simply go back to my room and find other means of amusing myself."

Harvey decided to jump in quickly...

'Well the person to ask that would be Kestrel I guess,' He spoke unsurely, going simply on where they had sent the Blonde kid earlier, 'But for now lets leave the happy family alone and get some food... I am starving'

He placed his arms around the prince and smiled at the others, 'Its being both a pleasure and an Honour meeting you.'.

Still smiling he offered a subtle wink to Julian and began to direct the prince in the direction he guessed the kitchen would be in.

'Ronan, you have really got a lot to learn, you were very close to needing a ladder to get out of the whole you were digging there.' He smiled, 'Anyway, whats it like in Atlantis?'

Rav is having one shitty time

It hadn’t been two seconds since Ravenor had told both Alice and phantasm to leave, preferably in a manner less destructive than the one in which they had arrived, he thought it was rather polite of him to be so civil, considering he could force them both out with minimal effort (not that he could actually keep either of them out if they really wanted in). But in keeping with the general theme for the day, something else happened to piss him off, someone else wanted to shove their noses in businesses that didn’t concern them.

A remote whizzed past his head, clipping his hair before slamming in to the wall, Turing what would be a quick fix in to an unsalvageable wreck, luckily for them he had problems with small breakables that required fingers, no matter how much he tried to stop using his right hand, it was instinctive, so he had quite a few spare items in storage, remotes being one of them… then again, the little speedster hadn’t done anything for him, why should he lend him a hand?

"You forgot your remote." "I'm assuming Alice already went over what will happen if you threaten Jules again, so allow me this quick opportunity to point out the obvious: It goes double for me, asshole!"

He sighed, more threats of physical violence, might as well say that he’ll tickle Rav’s feet if he harmed Julian again… no, actually that would probably be a more effective deterrent, they would never let it go if they discovered how ticklish he was.

"Uh, I can fix that?"

<And now reality sinks in> he thought to him self, as much as that could be construed as reality, no way you were fixing that thing without paying more than it would cost to buy a new one

"No bleeding your sybling, understood? It brings out my bad side. Blod tends to bring my kind to a darker place than we are usually in."

He just growled for a split second and started to walk to the door, he couldn’t argue with that part, as long as he was living in the tower, she was dam high on the ‘do not piss off list’ in fact, she practically was the list.

"And Alice, I would appreciate it if you fixed his door. One doesn't break in uninvited, it's rude."

He smirked at that part, personally he thought she was getting off easy, but it would do.

"And you Stat will replace the remote you broke."

That wasn’t as amusing, sadly, so he decided to offer a sort of oak branch… that was the saying wasn’t it? “there are spare remotes in storage room on the same level as the one you came in on” he said a she passed the red haired teen, not offering Alice any kind of goodbye as he left “don’t wreck anything” He didn’t feel like being followed, so as soon as he was out of the room he simply vanished in to his own shadow.


He came out in to one of the subterranean levels, specifically the one with the pool/underwater entry, it was one of his favorite places, the lights didn’t work, so the only illumination was from under the water, it gave the room a nice blue tinge, without putting any light on the ceiling, so it looked like there wasn’t one, it was like a starless sky.

“Just like home” he mumbled, before going over to the lounge he had carried down there and falling back on to it, he wondered just how long he could go before he was forced to interact with any of them again, its not like they would be able to find him anytime soon without the internal sensors, and there was no way they were gonna get access that would trump his and make the scanners show his location. But why should he hide? He had been living here for years before they came and fucked everything up, even everyone in the city had learned to stay away from him or loose some blood, and anyone good enough to pose him a threat had long since realized he wasn’t worth the effort.

“screw them” he said, standing up with an angry look on his face “if they ruin it all for me, then I’m gonna ruin it for them” he took a step towards the wall and booted it “I will be the most miserable” he kicked the wall again, this time bringing a few cracks to its re-enforced surface “most annoying” he kicked the wall again, the cracks running up to the ceiling now “most disruptive” he kicked the wall one last time, this time embedding his foot in the wall “asshole, that they’ve ever met!” he ripped his foot out and glared at it, he was pretty sure he just broke at least one of his toes, and now he was bleeding again... He really needed to start wearing shoes

“Dammit… now I need an ice pack or a bandage or something” he pulled off his coat and tossed it back on to the couch before walking off in to the shadows, it was a little long for him and he didn’t want to clean the blood of it again, he had already done it three times this week for that one “I really need to start keeping more of that stuff on hand” was his final words before he dissolved in to the darkness once again, muttering a constant string of profanity as he went.


This time he came out right where he had started, the only bathroom in the whole building with any basic first aid gear left, and all the stuff in the infirmary was meant for more serious stuff. He grabbed a bandage from the little box on the wall and headed out for the main room, to memory there was an ice pack in the kitchenettes freezer.

He walked in to the room oblivious of anyone else and with an aura of general annoyance and displeasure so strong even those who normally were blind to such things would probably sense it, still mumbling every dirty word he had ever seen on TV as he walked up to the fridge, and he had watched allot of TV, so he had allot to say, he didn’t know what any of it meant, he just knew it was bad.

Jullian was a congenial spirit, those who knew her knew that well. Those, who did not, however, soon found out, less it be a simple single glance in which then she came off as complete mystery of her own. Like the thousands of literature she indulged herself in, she came off as a creature from a fairytale brought to life, jumping out of the pages contained in fantastical stories. The appearances she makes are never forgettable, whether she was enticing and beguiling or fiercely intimidating, is different in each and everyone’s experience. She is both an angel and a devil, though she tends to keep that “devil” at bay. In time, she had learned to do so, suppressing that devil within.

She was known for casting people under spells, the only concern was being which whatever spell she chose to use-- Whether it was to captivate you and draw you into a dreamy state with the simple stare into her eyes, or pure mind control, which then she could either cast you into the fiery depths of hell itself or use you as a pawn. Many times, especially by the Church, she had been deemed to be a succubus, while in her male form an incubus, but more than likely “Lucifer” was name given to her. Sometimes she was even so much as called “The Anti-Christ”; the one whom they believed would come with promises of peace, only there would be none, far from it. Not that she honestly could help it, it was in her demon nature after all, mind you she has never lead anyone off to murder them. Nevertheless, one look into the eyes could kill her enemies, and as the ancient Arabian Proverb states:


However, no matter how truthful that axiom was in her regards, Jullian never based anything by appearances. She knew better than that, believing to “never judge a book by it’s over”. And she never once did consider herself in the least beautiful, in fact, it was anything else but that. It was her critical view of herself that made her as humble as she was, never to pander, and at her best tried to maintain her modesty, let alone the fact she was prude. Her dark side, on the other hand, was an entirely different story, and disregarded all of her moral upbringing. Her dark side was, without a doubt, the Devil everyone was warned about, and why she was perceived to be so daunting.

“He who sups with the devil should have a long spoon,” fit Vladimir perfectly, being that he was the one you needed to keep your distance from. IF you could help it, that is. Sadly, this meant others should not get too close to her, either, since they were both the same person, only two split personalities difference. Literally. But being the social butterfly that she was, she was not the type to merely push people away from her. She did, though, manage to keep some distance between her and the people in her life, just enough that they would not get burned. And be assured, under that sweet, friendly, calm and cool exterior, the flames were scorching hot, followed closely by quick freezing and blusterous blizzard winds! The incessant smile she wore upon her features could easily deceive many if not all away from these horrifying truths, and those who could see her for the creature she truly was, viewed her nothing short of as a monster attending a masquerade ball, putting on a grandeur display of elegance and charm.

Fortuitously, she put all of these traits to good use, never intending to use them for the impure purposes of evil. In fact, she has never intentionally used most of her given abilities, given the fact that most were purely demonic, and who knows, being part of this team may call upon her to do so. As the saying goes, “There’s a first time for everything.” But for now, she stuck with what she knew was to be the safest, never wanting to really inflict harm upon anyone. Yes, she was certainly the “angel” to Vladimir’s “devil”.

And she wanted everyone to see she meant no harm. Using her “animal magnetism” and her eccentric and melodramatic sense of humor, she tried to warm people around her. She had acquired a playful nature, despite all the circumstances, both of which she has been through and having to deal with her supposed fate. In all integrity, she was running from her kismet, avoiding the subject like the plague, hoping to somehow contravene it. Sure she confessed to Joker she had other personalities, but she sure as hell would never inform who those personalities were and what they were capable of. Moreover, she never once uttered the words, too frightened to even concede them herself. The name numbed her just as much as it had numb everyone else who spoke it, perhaps more. All the more, she could not blame anyone for being so reluctant around her, and Atlantean Prince was no exception.

Needless to say, Jullian could very well sense the reluctance and the disturbance from the two males, namely when she was introducing them to the two life forms she very well was indebted to. However, she carried on, picking up her cross as she grinned and bared it.

Eddie, knowing her the best, provided his support, embracing her as they both watched the older green demon address them both. He was indeed her scaffold as well as her mother’s, though in her case, he was always there to catch her when she fell, which then he would pluck her and place her upon a silver pedestal. Quite often he would play “the knight in shining armor”, reminding her always that she was his “Queen”. She quite literally had him tied around her dainty fingers.

"Um, thank you?" was the Prince’s response to her mother’s statement. "I'm...glad to see you've rebounded from my father breaking it off with you all those years ago?" He then glanced at the two of them. "Red and Green skin goes well together, I suppose. And you have a rather interesting so....dau....well, your prodigy is an incredibly gifted individual."

Eddie snorted at the remark, finding it to be an absurdly estimated guess. He rolled his eyes.

Beast Girl blinked questionably at the young blonde, raising a brow as to wondering what he was insinuating at. She looked over at her daughter and her servant as she added the pieces together, then looked back at the Atlantean Prince as she tried hard not to laugh at such a statement.

People had always wondered if her mother and caretaker were together. Truth be told, they were not. The red demon had been gotten over his affections for his master, long ago, in fact. He no longer cared to win her heart, or even bothered to wile her, having learned to give it up after so many failed attempts in trying to. After all, her heart still belonged to a certain Azarathian lad, no matter how much she denied it, while his had moved on shortly after Jullian was born. As a matter of fact, he had became quite attached to the child the moment she was born and had became her sworn protector, like the thorns on a rosebud. In a sense, he was the one who really raised her. And as the years had passed, he went from protector, to father figure, and to perhaps something more, for his affections were now being transferred to her. Without a doubt, he was one of her closest friend, more so than her best friends. Oddly enough, her mother never minded any of it, considering the fact that he would always be there for her offspring no matter what and would never disappoint her like usual father’s do.

In short… Edward is essentially Beast Girl’s butler, that and nothing more.

Geraldine did not know what was worse, the fact people thought Eddie and her were a couple… Or the statement that the Atlantean Prince made in regards to Terran’s and her past relationship. Not only that, but her eyes had widened when she heard the young blonde’s statement about the Earth Bender dumping her. Her smiling expression became petulant.

“Of all the ridiculous things!” She thought indignantly, feeling a bit hot under the collar. “He didn’t dump me! He betrayed me! Then he had the audacity to try to get back with me after all he had put me through! …Terran, you lying smug son-of-a-bitch!” She then thought of how she was going to beat the snot out of him when and if she ever say that man again. “So help me GOD, I am going to STRANGLE YOU!”

Jules blinked at her mother, feeling the anger now rolling off of the older woman. She could literally see her aura darken, increasing fervently like kerosene thrown into an open fire. The young girl’s ears twitched, expecting the worse from her mother, like a big smack to the head to a certain who dared to relay such a comment.

“Mother.” She spoke to her psychically. “He is “like a fish out of water”.” She paused for a moment as she heard the demon embracing her snicker. “And “he who does not know one thing knows another”.”

““He lied like an eyewitness!”” Eddie wittily added his own two cents, telepathically of course.

Her mother, thankfully, began to calm herself. Gradually. The woman just did not have the patience she used to.

However, her mother was not the only one experiencing rage. Jullian had also been sensing someone else’s anger, too, but it was her mother whom she was more concerned about at the moment. Of course, she knew exactly who the other individual was. Not only could she sense him, but she could hear him perfectly clear as well, stirring around and about and making much noise. She smiled sadly.

“Now, why must he make everything harder for himself?” She thought, feeling poignant for him.

Of course, Vlad thought it was amusing, especially when he hurt his foot. “Oh, sweet and blissful tears of agony! Like music to my ears!”

"In either case, it's a unique pleasure to meet you both." Ronan said, finally finished with addressing the former Titan members, nodding his head respectfully. The Prince then eyed between both the Joker and Shadow, not knowing who to address next as he spoke; "Look, I didn't mean to intrude on anything between family and friends, but I was wondering if there was anything planned for today's agenda after we were settled in around here?" He his eyes then glanced at everyone currently in the room, feeling uncomfortable. “If not, then I suppose there are other ways to busy oneself around this place. Or I can simply go back to my room and find other means of amusing myself."

Eddie’s head popped up immediately off his ward’s head as his ears perked up. Suddenly, the red male could not contain himself as he laughed out loud, having translated that last statement into something naughty. Having seen Jullian looked up at him, he changed his laughter quickly as he then laughed through his teeth, sounding very much now like a serpent. So many witty remarks popped up inside of his brain all at once, wondering to himself of which ones he could pitch at him.

“My dear Edward.” Jullian chided into his head, placing one of her hand’s gently upon his cheek. “Keep thine words to thyself, less your tongue slips and you may lose it.” She warned, not wanting to upset the Prince to the point of creating a fight. She could already tell the blonde had a stern sense of pride.

“So, “the devil looks after his own”.” He teased her back, crooning the words to her, equally transferring his thoughts. He continued his embrace around her, lowering his head back down, only this time he placed his head right beside her own again. They were now cheek to cheek. As tall as he was, which was about six foot four or more, the demon could sure bend and not feel the slightest discomfort.

The two stood there and watched the others. Harvey had jumped in, making a feeble attempt to save his teammate from further embarrassment. However, as one could tell, the Prince did not really appreciate it much.

“Well the person to ask that would be Kestrel, I guess.” Joker spoke uncertainly. “But for now, let’s leave the happy family alone and get some food... I am starving.” He then wrapped his arms around the Atlantean. A bold move indeed. He smiled at Jullian and the other two. “It’s being both a pleasure and an honor meeting you.”

“BEEN. Not being a pleasure. BEEN! Confound it!” Vladimir corrected, irked, though he remained unheard. He snorted and then groaned dramatically, sounding much like a ghoul who was out seeking his next meal. “Tsk! Such butchery of the English language! It's possitively madening!”

Jullian could not help but grin like a hatter, though, when the ebony haired clone gave her a wink. Of course, she paid Vlad little mind, if any at all.

The three of them watched as the Joker’s namesake lead the Prince away, speaking to him. “Ronan, you have really got a lot to learn. You were very close to needing a ladder to get out of the whole you were digging there.” He advised, smiling all the more. “Anyway, what’s it like in Atlantis?” He asked, changing the subject as he tried to lead him to the kitchenette.

Just then, Jullian’s older sibling abruptly entered the room. They all turned and looked at him, watching the man as he entered into the kitchen and dining area of the “leisure room”, heading towards the fridge as he muttered curses under his breath.

The young demon Princess saw the dragon half-breed's injured foot and winced. "He really did hurt himself." She thought concernedly, her brow furrowing. She felt all the more sad for him.

The sky grew dim once more as the clouds quickly gathered themselves together. She did not pay it much mind, since already tension immediately skyrocketed in the room. Her shadow twitched.

Beast Girl grimaced, raising an eyebrow as she stared at him, while wondering “Who the fuck is this kid?” and “Why is he ignoring everyone?”. She narrowed her eyes to get a better look at him, then it suddenly clicked! He looked just like Revan, only she could tell it was not him. No. His scales on his right side pretty much gave it away. She knew now who exactly who this kid was, or at least figured out who the parents were. Geraldine placed her hands back onto her hips, looking mighty cross as a demonic growl rumbled in her throat.

The minute the half-breed entered the room, Edward strengthened his embrace around his protégé, wrapping his forked tail around her protectively. He fired at the other offspring of Raven’s intense glares of promised pain and murder, his demon eyes flaring as his face darkened.

“Well, well, well.” Vladimir thought delightedly. “Looks like my little puppet has returned!" He laughed. “Surely, revenge is sweeter far than flowing honey.”

“He’s not your play thing.” Jullian rebuked her darker half. “Tis more noble to forgive, and more manly to despise, than to revenge an Injury. Revenge, at first though sweet, Bitter ere long back on itself recoils.”

Vladimir snarled and then hissed. “Life being what it is, one dreams of revenge!” He barked.

“Forgiveness is all the more cruel.” Jules shot back, knowing full well he could not do anything.

Jullian also knew that her brother was putting up a front, that and he had not even noticed any of them in his presence. He was an aloof individual, quite opposite of herself. As much as she wanted to support and assist him, she knew that it would, indeed, take time… Sadly, time was an essence.

“You must live with a person to know a person.” She silently mused over an old Irish adage. “If you want to know me come and live with me.”

X’Hal (Bluefire)

She was completely alone now. One by one they had left and not a one had enlightened her anymore to the situation than when she'd first entered this place. For the first time in a long time, X'Hal was at a lose for what to do with herself. At home, she was constantly busy. There was always something that needed done, even in times of peace she trained with her battalion of soldiers to keep their skills sharp. On her world, she was second only to the king himself, so there was never a time where she was not faced with responsibilities of other a military nature or more mundane matters. When coming here, she had held her father's stories in her mind and had thought that perhaps they would at least have been debriefed on their enemy, but it seemed there was not even a hint of such organization. Part of her wished to take charge and whip them into a more orderly force. There was little stopping her from trying exactly that, except, beyond the pure evil that seethed from across the water, she knew nothing of their enemy. She barely had even understood half of what these people were going on about! Being at such a lose irritated her to no end. It was something that would definitely need to be remedied as soon as possible.

A faint beeping sound came to her attention as she was busy berating herself for her own ignorance and she looked down at her wrist. It was new and while she’d never truly been one to adorn herself with jewels as some women, she was rather fond of its’ simple design. Of course it was practical as well since her father had given it to her as a way for them to keep in touch despite the many galaxies that separated them. A small smile crept to her lips as she detached the lone jewel and moved to the television screen, before pressing the jewel onto its’ surface. She had achieved adulthood years ago, but her feather still treated her with the same affection he’d as when she’d only been a small child. There were rumors that she wished to take his throne from him forcefully and had built a rebellion army that lay hidden for her command. It was something born more of fear of her heritage and her relatively cold demeanor compared to her father’s determined kindness, but, while she did not personally hold the king’s ideals, there was no truth to the matter. Even if death was not the only way to usurp the throne, X’Hal didn’t think she could have born the sorrow in his heart if she ever demanded the right to rule from him.

Vine-like tendrils grew from the jewel and spread out until they encompassed the screen entirely and disappeared. She did not have to see to know what they were doing, she had, after all, quite forcefully demanded her tutors to teach her how and what made their technology work when she was little more than nine years old. She may have always been rather quiet to all but her immediate family, but that had rarely kept her from being a rather presumptuous pupil. She knew that what seemed simple if almost mystical was rather very clever little nanobots acclimatizing themselves to the Earth technology and preparing the mundane little box of entertainment to receive her father’s message. It really took no more than a few seconds and soon she was bowing in front of the screen.

“X’etta! Oh how I have missed you, my dear offspring. Have you made many friends since your arrival?”

A few moments of silence went by as she thought of how to respond to such a greeting. Finally she settled on slipping into her native tongue and giving the man a rather honest perplexed look. The pet name she would let slid. He had never listened to her before when she’d asked him to stop calling her that.

”Father? I’m sure it hasn’t escaped your notice, but I’m very much alone. Why are you speaking to me in English?”

The man seemed genuinely shocked at this revelation and he even moved close and made to peer around the room as best he could to see that indeed his daughter was alone at the moment. Inwardly, X’Hal chuckled at her father. He was a brilliant leader, but seemed to show a grand deal of naivety whenever his excitement got the best of him, like now. There was a flicker of disappointment in his eyes as he settled back down in his seat and she knew it was because he had also wanted to see the children of his friends and maybe even his friends as well. She didn’t have to feel his emotions to read him well. She knew he missed them greatly.

”Don’t worry, father. I’ll be here for quite some time. I’m sure there will be many other opportunities to speak to them.”

”Yes, of course. Oh, but my darling X’etta, you haven’t answered my question yet, and I want to know what you’ve been up to.”

She sighed and shook her head. At least his spirits seemed to had lifted a little now, even if she wasn’t at all thrilled that his attentions had returned back to that particular subject. He’d lectured her on the importance of making friends both at home and on this world more times than she could count. She could have quoted him if she wished to. Still, if she lied to him, she knew he’d be able to tell in that omnipotent parental way of his, so she consented in giving the truth that she had barely spoken more than briefly to her fellow companions and that, to her credit, they seemed quite ready to ignore her presence anyways. She was perfectly content to participate only in the crime fighting part of this escapade, but even as he fell into his old lecture, she knew that she would end up putting up some kind of effort soon enough. She’d promised her father, after all, and she never went back on her promises.

He would have talked to her longer if he could have gotten away with it, but the duties were many and constant and she was no longer there to help carry the burden. So he was reluctantly called away with promises that he would check on her again soon. Shaking her head softly, she tapped the jewel on the screen and disconnected it from the television set before placing it back on her bracelet. It was a scenario that was far too familiar. He had always needed to be called away for something or other in her life. Even after her mother had died, Tamaran needed its’ king. At times, she felt poorly neglected because of it, but that was just the things were and besides she could clearly feel his love for her even if he didn’t always have time to say so out loud.

Now that silence engulfed her once again, her eyes strayed over to the window and the dark city that lay beyond. She was becoming used to it, acclimatized. What had earlier been nothing but pure evil now separated itself into rage, greed, hunger, sorrow, lust, envy, and fear. Combined with glimmering of emotions she was just now getting from those in the tower, and it was almost overwhelming. Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath to steady herself. Fear. She must not fear this talent of hers. She couldn’t let herself be crippled. She was strong, stronger than this, strong enough to take it all and find the peace within herself to let it fall away from her. Opening her eyes, she let out a shaky breath and stood up. She would train. Going through the movements of battle calmed her nerves in between meditation sessions.

With her mind made up, she finally exited the only room in the tower, beyond the entrance, she had ever been in and walked purposely down the halls. She’d been given floor plans and she’d studied them, so she more or less knew what she was about. Yet, she could not help but wish that perhaps the green-skinned man would have had the forethought to transport them some floors lower so she would not need to traverse so much space so soon. There were those queer contraptions, elevators, but she didn’t quite trust the primitive technology yet and, while it would have been far quicker otherwise, she was not loathe to take the stairs.

Once she reached the training room, her hand searched along the wall for something to bring light into the vast room. Light switch, they were called light switches. As the lights flickered into life overhead, she made her way around the training room. According to her information, there were a variety of buttons that could be pressed in order to bring forth machines to further keep the titans in peak form. All she needed was her own body, and if she bothered to let herself admit it, her giorn and the odd sparring partner were nice to have around as well. Her things were still in her ship though, unless someone had taken it upon themselves to touch them and she sincerely hoped no one had.

Moving to a door, she pressed a button that she assumed would open it and was rewarded with being correct. It was probably best that she get some experience in with Earth weapons while she was here. It was always a good idea to discover everything other cultures had to offer in order to know what one was up against or to better adapt your own range of attack. Yet, all she saw, when she turned the light on, was a woman. She seemed to be sleeping upright and, oddly, made mostly of metal. Frowning, she wondered why that description sounded so familiar to her as she stepped forward and touched the woman’s smooth, brown cheek. Suddenly, her eyes snapped open and then looked at X’Hal. Despite the smile on her lips, she looked almost empty as she stared at the metal woman.

“Booyah!”

It was all the warning she received, before her arm morphed into a cannon and shot at her. Years of battle had her reflexes pulling her away before the shot could find purchase and then she was heaving the woman over her head and across the large room to crash soundly into the far wall. She landed on the floor, unphased , her grin never faltering. Perhaps she’d gone too easy on her. She’d acted out of instinct when she had thrown her, but she had had the presence of mind to use only a fraction of her strength.

“Booyah!”

Dodging the laser once more, she flew towards her and pinned the woman to the ground before ripping the cannon from her arm. The battle cry was sounded once more, but there was no utterance of pain or even shock at X’Hal’s actions. Now that she herself was over the initial surprise of the attack, she realized that she felt nothing from this being. She was as empty as her eyes. For a moment, she contemplated putting the sparking arm back in place, but decided against it for answers instead.

At first, her footsteps were unhurried as she carried the woman over her shoulder. Then they picked up pace until she was flying back into the room she had first entered in, in the hope that someone would be there. Indeed, there were others there now and a couple faces that she recognized from pictures her father had shown her many times. The king would be pleased to know they were alive and well. First thing was first though. Pulling the woman off her shoulder, she propped her up as she continued to utter that incessant word over and over, utterly undeterred by any of what had happened.

“What in creation is this… this… THING?!”

Alice (Knave)

"What goes on here?!"

If it wasn't for the sudden gust of wind, sending the fake flowers pinned in her hair into a swirling dance outside of her peripheral vision, Alice would have been completely caught off guard. Still, she hadn't really let her attention stray from Mr.Threaten-One-Of-Her-Best-Friends here and let out a volley of curse words when Phantasm's booming voice filled the room. Laying a hand over her thudding heart, she glared at the ghost for scaring her like that. Seriously, she wasn't used to being snuck up on and it gave her the heebie jeebies everytime Phantasm popped in for a little chat much less the whole mother hen/snarling pitbull routine she had going on now.

“I thought you knew everything that happened in this tower. I had a discussion with my brother, then someone broke in to my room. Simple, really. Now unless you have any questions, please kindly leave”

Ok, for some reason beyond her, now that she actually gave it a second thought, Alice had thought that perhaps Ravenor would bother telling, oh, the truth. Not that he had technically lied either, but it wasn't even half as simple as he was making it out to be and she definitely wasn't all to blame. He had shown himself to be really standoffish and kind of an ass before, and him hurting Jules out of nowhere like that really didn't help him, but she'd been trying to give him the benefit of the doubt. Now, she just glared daggers at him for making it out like she'd just blithely come into his room for a little bit of a row, and opened her mouth to give Phantasm a much better explanation when she closed it again. Mallory's footsteps gave her enough of a warning that she knew to step aside. Which she did, just a fraction of an inch, so the kinetic energy wouldn't screw with her hair, before a familiar looking remote slammed into the wall next to Ravenor's head and promptly exploded.

"You forgot your remote. I'm assuming Alice already went over what will happen if you threaten Jules again, so allow me this quick opportunity to point out the obvious: It goes double for me, asshole!"

Tilting her head in order to better look at Mal, Alice kept up her demeanor of what she hoped seemed threatening, before giggling. Not entirely appropriate, she knew, but something about her friend's looking fierce always cracked her up. It was possibly due to the fact that she'd grown up with them, or maybe it was because she had pictures stashed in her room from last month that detailed the trio in rather frilly dresses, or it was none of these and she just never really gave it a thought. Still, that didn't mean she was any less amused.

"Uh, I can fix that?"

Then again, it was probably lines like those that kept her from taking him seriously. Not that she’d have it any other way, Mal’s sense of humor was just part of what made him such a fun friend. Grinning at him, she opened her mouth to finally give her part of the story when Phantasm just went up and started to leave. Though apparently her pausing at the door meant she had some parting sentiments for them.

"No bleeding your sibling, understood? It brings out my bad side. Blood tends to bring my kind to a darker place than we are usually in. And Alice, I would appreciate it if you fixed his door. One doesn't break in uninvited, it's rude. And you Stat will replace the remote you broke."

Pff, like chiding the guy was going to keep him from hurting Jules again. It was something that made her roll her eyes. It wasn’t like Ravenor had stolen cookies from a cookie jar. If he tried to hurt one of her friends again, she doubted she wouldn’t hurt him back. So she hadn’t actually meant what she said about killing him. She’d never killed anyone before, but she had memories of killing, thanks to her various genetic donors, and it really wasn’t an experience she looked forward to repeating, ever. Though common sense told her that in this line of work it was bound to happen sooner or later. Just the thought of it made her sick to her stomach.

“there are spare remotes in storage room on the same level as the one you came in on”

Blinking out of her reverie, Alice looked at Ravenor and raised an eyebrow at him. Was he being kind of nice? Tres weird. Even weirder, he was leaving…. His own room. Alice had personally never had to do such, but last time she checked people tended to stay in their rooms and kick the trespassers out, not the other way around.

“don’t wreck anything”

Sticking her tongue out at his back, she watched him disappear some feet away from his door like so much smoke. She kind of felt like being rude about it, call him a show off or something of the sort, but she was over it by now. As hard as it was to get on her bad side, it was even harder to say there and besides, she’d said and done what she’d set out to do. Not to mention, Mallory had done it too. Looking at her friend, she giggled and moved past him to pick up the door off the ground.

“That was so cool, just now! With the remote and the energy. Oh the look on his face when it exploded! Tch all I did was be all brawn about it. Then again, you do have more practice with flare than I do.”

As she chattered on, her hands were moving, using strength and speed to press the door back into its’ original shape before setting it in the doorway and fixing it so it would work once again. Now Phantasm couldn’t bug her about it later. Of course, Ravenor may still be annoyed since it’d now open and close opposite of how it used to. She could just pretend stupidity when he complained about it though. For a moment she thought about autographing her handy work, but that was probably bordering on being mean. I did make her grin about it. Something like, ‘Alice was here’.

“There. Almost as good as new.”

Tucking Mallory’s arm in hers, she hummed softly to herself as she made a meandering path back to ‘the lounge’ or so it’d said on the blueprints during the renovation. By all rights it was more like a den or something, only with a kitchen attached. Though she hadn’t really used it at all since she’d been here. In an effort to keep away from Ravenor, she’d just used the subterranean facilities. They were closer to her room than the upper levels anyways. Suddenly tilting her head to the side, Alice pouted as she looked at Mallory.

“I wonder if Jules is ok. He’s always so sensitive about these things when people get offended like that. I knew Ravenor was an ass, but this! Ugh, should’ve stopped it before it got that far.”

Now that she wasn’t spitting mad, she finally had time to chide herself for her own stupidity. Seriously, she was supposed to be this grand powerful being, one in a long line of greats, and she starts the revival of the Teen Titans by failing to stop her friend getting injured. It didn’t matter if it was only minor and quickly over. She was fast enough to intervene. Hell, she could’ve just stuck her hand out between them and pushed Ravenor away. Very neat and simple. Too bad it was only hindsight that was 20/20 with her.

“Anyways, how was your trip? Did Hex give you that speech again about how this isn’t a game and we should look after our fellow teammates?”

Her eyes glimmered with mirth as she teased him about it. Even though she hung out with her friends’ families a lot, lectures were something she rarely received from them in comparison to Mal and Jules got from their own parents. It was something Alice was both glad for and sorely missed having. As irksome as parents supposedly were, she knew they only did those things because they were worried and they cared and she really wanted that. Not that she’d ever mentioned her jealousy to them out loud. It’d probably just make things awkward as they were suddenly reminded of her orphan status. At least one good thing about being a test tube baby was that she had never had any parents to mourn anyways. So it wasn’t all bad.

“Eddie!”

Spotting the familiar red demon, Alice squeeled and pulled away from Mallory in order to run up and hug Jules’ guardian. He was kind of a perv but he was great fun anyways. Plus, she was just as fond of him as she was of Mal’s parents and Jules’ mom, even if he wasn’t technically a parent. Giving him a big kiss on his cheek, she grinned and looked around for Jules’ mom. She was an imposing woman and even though Alice had always known her first name, it felt way too weird to call her Beast Girl and Geraldine sounded rather presumptuous, so she tended to settle on ‘Jules’ mom’ or Ms. Logan. It was an intimidation that lasted all of half a minute before she enveloped Jules’ mom in a hug as well. Questions about why they were here were probably prudent, but Alice could probably guess that anyways. Jules’ mom was just a little over-protective.

Just then a faint crashing sound could be heard downstairs and Alice raised an eyebrow as she zeroed in on the noise. What she heard just had her laughing. Well, until she caught sight of Jules. Then she grinned and ran over to her and whipped off her top hat in order to play with her. Which she did with haste as, by the time the hat fell back in to her waiting hand, she was finished twisting the long strands into braids and placed the crowning affair back onto her head. Stepping back from her friend, she looked her over, tapping a finger to her lips as she gave a critical eye to the whole ensemble, before nodding her agreement that the hair was definitely an improvement on the over all look. She thought it gave Jules a certain edge.

“What in creation is this…. this…. THING?!”

Alice would have answered her. She really would, except she was laughing far too hard to get the breath to speak. It was too bad, because it was all her fault in a way. She’d come across the malfunctioning robot weeks ago during renovations and had had to forcibly pull out its’ power source, because it was annoying everyone to death. Repairing it was one of the projects she tackled when she took up house in the tower, but she’d never moved beyond just getting it to work again. Apparently the original programming meant it to scream ‘booyah!’ over and over and Alice really hadn’t had the heart to screw with that. So the Cyber copy had just stayed tucked away. Though, in hindsight, she probably should’ve picked a better hiding spot.

Ronan

'Well the person to ask that would be Kestrel I guess.'

The blond slowly nodded as he thought back on the female in question, though he assumed a more likely candidate would be one of those few whom were already within the Tower previous to the others arrival. All the same, she was the adopted daughter of the teams previous leader, so he could understand the assumption of her being the one to speak with about agendas and such. Seemed about as good a guess as any, with this disorderly bunch of young heroes, and far be it for a Prince to question a chain of command which relies upon heirs carrying out the legacy left behind by those who came before them.

'But for now lets leave the happy family alone and get some food... I am starving. Its being both a pleasure and an Honour meeting you.'

The young Atlantean looked surprised, and then rather annoyed, as Harvey started to attempt in leading him away from the scene and conversation he was participating in. Not that he was looking forward to carrying it on much longer, but being lead away by just anyone wasn't something the Prince was used to having done in his life. Still, despite a look of annoyance on his features which were directed toward the Joker's namesake, he offered up little resistance as they made for the kitchenette. At least it was a way of excusing himself without possibly appearing pompous or even dismissive of the veteran Titans on his part.

“Ronan, you have really got a lot to learn. You were very close to needing a ladder to get out of the whole you were digging there.”

Raising an eyebrow at the other male as he followed along, Ronan begrudgingly shrugged his shoulders in silent response; although he'd already started to figure he was doing something wrong if he required being led away like this. His father had often been brutally honest, rarely trying to dance around a subject regardless of how rude it may seem by others standards. While his mother had warned him about the way such attributes may cause others to view a person, and he had met others from the surface world during his lifetime, it still remained his primary model of how they behaved. Not to mention it was a part of his personality which was ingrained within him, regardless.

“Anyway, what’s it like in Atlantis?”

Glancing in Harvey's direction, the young Prince paused a moment to best pick his words, since his first response involved making a wisecrack about there being lots of fish, "It's a nice enough place to visit, though I've never stayed there more then a day or two for diplomatic reasons. My family actually resides outside of Atlantis itself, within the Iddylist Colonies in the Hidden Valley. Pretty far away from Atlantis, nowhere near as popular a subject in your literary works or motion pictures, but it's a beautiful place and I call it home."

Starting to check around the kitchenette area, the blond wasn't actually very hungry, but he did take some time for poking around to see what snack he could throw together which may appear appetizing, "Anyway, I suppose you're right about having much to learn. This is all just strange for me, and the disorderly conduct of earlier hasn't done any wonders in helping me feel prepared for adjusting to your ways."

In a short while, he was able to throw together a simple sandwich made out of peanut butter, mayonnaise and a couple pieces of bologna which he pulled out of the fridge. Not exactly the most logical of combination's, but it looked oddly appetizing for the young Prince whose exposure to surface food was relatively limited. Just a shame he couldn't seem to locate any tuna to add into the strange mixture.

"Perhaps it may be best if I were to try maintaining a lower profile and only speaking up when needed for now? Although doing both of these traits certainly go against my very nature." The Atlantean stated as he took a bite out of the sandwich, chewing on it a few times before pausing with a strange look on his face; causing him to peak inside of the combined slices of bread as he stated, "Knew I should have searched harder for the tuna."

About then, the young man whom Ronan had simply recognized as Jullian's half-brother had materialized into the large area. His sudden appearance caused a sense of alarm in the Atlantean, though he simply stood his ground and watched Ravenor while trying a second bite out of his strange concoction. This stuff actually wasn't so bad once you got a little used to the taste, though the mayonnaise tasting peanut butter which kept getting stuck to the roof of his mouth was a mild annoyance. The sky then seemed to grow dim once again, at least going from his view through the large windows which allowed a look into the outside world, which made him question if such frequent changes in weather were natural for this area. Fickle weather, it would seem.

Finishing off another bite of his sandwich, the Prince slowly shifted his gaze between the half-siblings and Jullian's parental entourage as they went about their business, feeling like an onlooker in something he wasn't getting the full picture of as he idly mused, "If anything, this trip should make me all the more appreciative for my own family and it's relatively low amount of issues."

“Eddie!”

Surprisingly, Ronan had almost forgotten about the pair which went chasing after Ravenor earlier. Judging by the lack of missing limbs or battle scars on either side, it at least appeared things were handled in a semi-civilized matter. So it would seem that death threats, both physically acted upon or voiced out loud in moments of anger, were the norm when it came to these people. A peculiar lot, to say the least, when the one whom is spawned from past villains and named after one of the more infamous in their history comes across perhaps the most normal and rational of the heroes currently in this room.

“What in creation is this…. this…. THING?!”

His blue eyes widened as it appeared he'd spoken too soon about nobody's limbs being removed in the heat of the moment. The situation became even more startling for the confused young man when Alice started breaking out into near hysterics due to an apparent amusement over the situation. These people were either mad, or Ronan was even more in the dark about what the devil was going on then he originally believed. Either one seemed equally possible for the Prince by this point in time.

"Holy crap, talk about a blast from the past. It continues to amaze me when I think about just how lifelike in appearance you were able to make this robot double-ganger, BG."

The voice came from the direction in which alien woman whom had brought the female cyborg into the large area had entered. As the pink-haired male entered the room, he made his way toward what Ronan now recognized as an android. There was a look in his eyes of both fondness and remorse as he gazed at the lifeless entity which, seemingly, was connected to a past memory of considerable emotional importance for the older male. Just another piece of the larger picture which he perhaps should have thought to ask for greater detail into when he had the chance with his parents.

"Unfortunately, it's also about as annoying when compared to how the real Cyber often acted."

Shaking his head as he watched the veteran Titan nudging the robot with his foot, the aquatic Prince took another bite out of nearly finished sandwich, while at the same time biting back the temptation to call these people out on their respective peculiarities.