Teen Titans © DC Comics

Elementals

Thunder continuously glanced over to Loren Jupiter, scowling as the rich, suspicious gentleman entered their roof. Lightning found a petite aircraft off in the corner. The plane was a sleek jet, made for ten people, similar to the T-Ship, but without the bulkiness. Jupiter opened the see-through, steel dome, ordering the others to get in behind him. As Cara, Adeline, and Alfonsa went in, Thunder grumbled and hoisted himself to follow. Helping his brother up, he shot another glower to Jupiter. Catching his snarl, Jupiter easily returned it with a sneer and turned into the cockpit with Adeline at his side.

Lightning sat next to his mother while Thunder slinked into an opposing window seat. Noticing his son's budding rage, Cara was about to question why the sudden, tangible animosity for Jupiter. However, Alfonsa bounced right next to him and asked why he fell for her daughter with a gleam of gossip-starved curiosity in her dark orbs. When Thunder reddened like a rose bush, Cara found the question lost as she leaned in to listen.

"Oh, uh, I, we…we, well, we met before our meeting at Titan's Tower after the Brotherhood of Evil's defeat. Originally, we met on the fated day before our fifteenth birthdays. It was a wondrous night, and I thought she was beautiful and simply a kind girl. I fell for her, but at the time, I did not know what I felt. Time conspired against us to part. It would be two years before we would meet again, somewhat changed, and I did not recognize her, or her for Thunder. I know Toni and Argent, but, deep down, she was and is my dear no matter what name or appearance changes," Thunder blithely recalled, clasping his hands together in fluttering remembrance.

Lightning groaned, leaning against the leather chair in disgust. "I will never approve."

"Well, brother, what of you and Kole? Tell Mother and Ms.-"

"Oh, call me Auntie Alfonsa," Argent's mother interjected, hugging Thunder's arm.

Flustered, Thunder nodded, and Cara chuckled. Returning his snide glance, to Lightning, Thunder sneered, "Truly, my brother, tell us. Even I do not know what has happened to make you and Kole confess."

"Tch! The crystal witch and I are in a peculiar state. We admitted our vows of love, but I still do not know if it is as a mate or a sister," Lightning sullenly admitted, bowing his head in shame. "I do not dwell on such things, but this oddity has warped my mind and heart."

"Lightning, you're a tool," Alfonsa barked heatedly, much to the yellow elemental's surprise. "You go to that girl, and you make out with her! You make out with her long and hard! Then you'll know if you are in love! That's how Argent's dad got me to love him! Except we got divorced, but that part doesn't really matter."

Thunder and Cara gaped, mouths slacking at her lustful proclamation. Lightning merely gazed at her before moving onto his family members, rather confused. He had no idea what it meant to "make out." Was it some sort of traditional dance? Lightning glanced back to his mother, asking what it meant. Cara just shook her head, hands covering her face as Thunder stifled amused laughter.

"Oh, what is this?" Cara mused, touching Thunder's white, H'san Natall armor. "I noticed it, but I did not say anything due to Walter's return."

Thunder winced visibly, veering away in anxious unworthiness. The recollection of his supposed betrayal tormented him, and he almost slayed his brother because of it. His fist clenched, looking down in morbid trepidation. His hair cast a gloomy shadow across his face, only adding to his bleak disposition. Thunder did not desire ever to remember his time as a Ch'ah's sadistic general; the period of madness that caused him to perform such heinous deeds of villainy would always torture him. He truly had become Ch'ah during that time.

"He became Ch'ah's soldier, his chief general, almost killing me," Lightning informed emotionlessly, and Thunder jerked up in shock. Lightning crossed his arms, sighing, and he gazed out at the clouds below. "His insanity truly impacted me."

"B-brother, I…"

"I know you love her more than me. Ch'ah was right. That is why our bond could not break you from his control." Lightning glared at Thunder who appeared struck at his brother's harshness. "You nearly killed me!"

"Lightning, please, it was you freed me. I heard you, Tavis. I heard your noble words, your plea," Thunder entreated softly, getting to his knees. Grasping Lightning's hands, he felt like sobbing when his brother scornfully glowered out the window. "Please, brother, you must believe me. Argent-"

"Answer this: do you love her more than me?" the alabaster elemental demanded vehemently.

Thunder froze, remaining deathly quiet as the heaviness of the situation dawned on him. Biting his lip, Thunder glanced away, and Lightning's sharp, heart-wrenching gasp roared in his ears. Shooting to his feet, Lightning stormed past Thunder, arms swinging rapidly at his side. He called Lightning's name, running after him through the small walkway. However, Lightning ripped open the bathroom door, slamming it in Thunder's face and locked it. Pressing his back against the door, Lightning encased himself in shadows and shakily sniffled.

Thunder loved Argent more. He did not need to admit anything anymore. Every card was played, and he saw Thunder's hand. There was Argent, replacing him. How could he? How could she? Lightning punched the wall, cursing savagely before cradling his bruised knuckles. She took him away from him like a seductress, luring him with false promises of salvation in her arms. Of course, he understood that his brother and Argent were intimate at one time, but that was the past! She was now nothing more than a witch, a harlot, and a temptress, one who he despised more than anyone. She stole Thunder from him!

"Lightning, Tavis, my brother, please," Thunder begged, jostling the knob.

"No! Why do you not speak with her over this?" Lightning snapped.

"Gan…" Cara prompted her son to turn around. "…you need to give him time."

"But he is hurt over this," Thunder murmured forlornly.

"Well, why's he so mad over it?" Alfonsa hissed, still in her seat to watch. "My daughter's in love with him! Lightning should be happy for Thunder!"

"Did you say…'happy?' Happy!" Lightning shrieked, throwing the door open. Glaring at Thunder, he threw his finger in front of him. He stormed up to Thunder, forcing him against the wall, shouting as he went. "Why should I be happy? She is a brother-stealing, demonic being of vile disgustingness! She is taking you away from me! She made you love her more than I, your brother. The one who has been by your side ever since you were born. I have never hated someone so much before. It hurts, but I do not care! I hate her!"

Thunder's mouth fell as Lightning feebly stalked away, holding himself in despair. Brushing his hair back, Thunder tucked it behind his ears. Sitting next to Lightning who slumped back into his seat, Thunder placed his hand on his brother's tightening, tensing, rigid shoulder. Bringing him close, he gently kissed the crown of Lightning's forehead in a brotherly fashion to soothe him and shushed him when Lightning whimpered. The blue elemental wrapped his strong arms around him as Lightning gazed up at him longingly.

"Brother, I told you before. Nothing can change who you are to me. I love you so deeply that my heart could burst from how much I love you. Lightning, you are the person who I cannot live without. Did you not see my distress when you…" He hated the next word with a burning passion. "…died? I lost myself. I became a monster like Ch'ah. Lightning. Argent is my dear, but you are my brother. I feel different kinds of love for you both, but I cannot choose between you, and I will not."

"It would…be like choosing between you and Kole." Lightning sighed, empathizing with Thunder. "Oh, brother I am sorry for my words. I feel like a fool."

"We are all fools, especially when it refers back to love," Thunder chuckled, winking.

"Still, I will never approve," Lightning adamantly stated, cuddling into Thunder.

The elemental groaned, rolling his eyes. "I give up! Forgot I ever said anything as this will always go nowhere!"

"I love you, too!" Lightning gushed, embracing Thunder's neck.

Cara sighed, shaking her head. "At least you two aren't fighting anymore."

"So, what happened on your trip?" Alfonsa shot over, still gossip-starved.

Thunder and Lightning paused, looking to each other. Chuckling nervously, they began with, "Well…"

…

Cara punched Thunder across the face once ending their tale. Thunder toppled out of his seat, wailing and held his throbbing cheek in pain. Lightning quickly pulled Alfonsa to her feet, bringing her to safety. Snatching his bangs, she heaved him to his feet and crossed her arms furiously. Thunder darted backwards, but Cara slid down and tripped him, swiping her leg underneath his feet.

"You fought your brother and got him killed? Gan! What have I taught you? You should never fight your brother! Never! Even under a mad king's control, you should at least recognize him!" Cara broke off, pinching her nose as Thunder groaned morbidly. Kneeling down by him, she kissed his forehead and smiled. "Just don't do it again, Gan, even though you were controlled. You need each other."

"Of course, Mother," Thunder replied, grinning.

Cara stood, hugging her other son tightly and kissed Lightning's cheek who groaned in response. "And you, my brave boy! I'm so proud of you, standing up to save your idiot brother, your friends, and future in-law. You have really blossomed, my little Tavis."

Lightning smirked, crossing his arms arrogantly as his ego exploded. "Yes, this time, I was the true hero!"

"You were, brother," Thunder admitted, ruffling his hair until Lightning nudged him away. "You saved us all. You brought me back, so I thank you for eternity."

"Feh! You should not have lost yourself to insanity since your precious Argent lost," Lightning countered haughtily.

Thunder frowned, lowering his head. "They harmed her. I could not permit them to-"

"-take her? They did, Thunder," Alfonsa growled.

"Which I am sorry for," he quickly replied, glancing over to the fuming Italian woman.

"Sorry to interrupt your little family lovefest," Adeline hissed over the plane's intercom, "but we're here. Sit down, shut up, and don't move."

Once she finished, the plane jerked down, and the quadrant scrambled into their seats. The plane swerved a sharp left, and Lightning instinctively clung to Thunder. Jupiter's plane or "deathtrap" as Cara called it, slowed drastically, seeming to hover in the air. Clouds heaved upwards, and the plane cut through them like a hot knife through butter. Thunder and Lightning winced, knowing the plane was polluting their precious clouds by slashing them apart and stuffing them with stale, toxic poisons from the exhaust. Cara peered out the window, alerting the others to the Titans North's base.

"Excellent! Now, brother, you can make passionate love to your woman."

"Shut up, Lightning!" Thunder snarled, blushing and punching him in the shoulder.

"Wait, you know what doing it is, but not making out?" Alfonsa questioned.

"He's a very simple boy," Cara explained.

"Mother!" Lightning whined.

"We've landed," Jupiter informed, stepping into view with Adeline.

Thunder leaped to his feet, pushing past Jupiter and out the door. He knew Argent was all right, but he needed to see her to ease his troubled mind. Stepping out of the plane, he looked down at the roof, staring at the crestfallen snow from the sky. He had not realized the gentle flakes were dropping in for a gracious visit from the heavens. Thunder gazed up in stupefied shock until he noticed an orange and purple dot surge past him and into Lightning.

"Friend Lightning!" Wildfire squealed, bringing the yellow elemental into a backbreaking hug.

"Wildfire…pain…" Lightning whined as his back gave an audible snap.

Wildfire dropped him, smiling broadly. Without warning, he embraced him again, but this time, he wrapped his arms around Lightning's chest as if to see if he was real. Sniffling, he whimpered, bringing his face into his golden orange armor. "I-I thought I would n-never see you again. Wh-when the portal closed, I thought…"

Lightning gazed down at the Tamaranian in shock, eyes wide in sudden surprise. Wildfire shook, lips trembling, and Lightning realized he was in the beginning stages of holding back tears. Wildfire's shoulders twitched, taking in shaky breaths to compose himself. Sighing, Lightning wrapped his arms around Wildfire's shoulders, smiling and told him not to fret in a soothing tone rarely heard from the hedonistic youth. As Wildfire bobbed his head in agreement, Lightning smiled and pulled away before placing his hand onto his head.

"Come, Wildfire, do not be sad. I am standing before you. That should be enough to quell your tears," Lightning softly urged.

Stepping back, Wildfire wiped his eyes and beamed with a crystal shine in his emerald orbs. "I will no longer be sad. Thank X'Hal you are unharmed."

Lightning remembered his death, bringing it up and cringed when Wildfire's mouth dropped like someone told him his child died in a car accident. The prince pointed back towards a latch, shrieking he was going to tell Kole. Gasping, the storm twin shouted at Wildfire's backside when he flew off to the latch. Tackling his back, Lightning wrestled Wildfire to the ground, but the young alien punched him on his shoulder, gaining the advantage and sat on him, pinning his arms down.

"Remove yourself from Lightning's backside this instant!"

"No," Wildfire cheekily replied.

"I loathe you…"

"Bye, son, have fun with your friend," Cara cheerily stated, walking past him with the others.

"Are you not going to help me?" he shrieked as Jupiter unlocked the latch.

"No," they chorused.

"Blast you all!"

"We'll send Kole up here if that'll shut you up," Adeline snapped before shutting the latch after the others entered.

Thunder had a ghost of a smirk on his face, hearing his brother and Wildfire banter and fight. They were so alike they could have been distantly related. He glanced over his shoulder, hearing Lightning curse in their native language of Vietnamese and Wildfire in the tongue of his home planet. For a moment, he imagined them in a relationship, and he felt sick to his stomach. It was a not a pretty picture as Thunder thought of them at a chapel with Wildfire in a wedding dress.

"Uh, are you all right?" Alfonsa asked in confusion as Thunder's hands covered his lime-tinted face.

"I believe so…" Thunder trailed off, watching Jupiter open the door to the living room.

The members of Titans North, Gnarrk, Kole, and Kid Flash were there, lounging around. The only ones not present were Jinx and Argent as the former was forced to mediate the dispute between Argent and Kole. His eyes widened in terror, gazing upon Kid Flash in a wheelchair. Thunder rarely saw Kid Flash sitting, but to see his friend confined, it was like Kid Flash's freedom was stripped of him. Waving to Thunder, Kid Flash rolled himself along towards his friend and smiled. Extending his hand, he jokingly asked if he brought him a present. Thunder diverted his gaze down to his leg that was covered in a white cast, wrapping up almost to his knee. Instantly, sadness overcame him, and Kid Flash noticed it, smiling hopefully to cheer him up.

"Hey, man, stop looking so sad. You're making me depressed," Kid Flash joked, patting his arm.

"But…but your leg," Thunder murmured, pointing down to the cast.

"Eh, it does stink, but I'll live. Hey, I'm not dead like you were a year ago," Kid Flash recalled, leaning up to Thunder. "Chill, seriously, we've all been through a lot."

Red Star floated over with Wonder Girl, and the Amazon embraced Thunder gently, stating she was happy to see him alive. The Russian Titan smiled, inclining his head in agreement before noticing a querulous look on Omen's face. Her lip was bit in utmost confusion as if somebody tried explaining an unfunny joke. With a hand to her chin, the brunette shyly tilted her head away, but Gnarrk placed his hand on her shoulder, asking what was wrong in his gruff voice.

"Oh, Gnarrk, n-nothing," Omen lied, but Gnarrk saw straight through and snorted. "Okay, it's just that I was wrong in my premonition. I saw Lightning dead, and Thunder crying. How is he here?"

"You are correct, Omen," Thunder admitted, approaching her. "My brother has died, but there has been-"

"What?" Wonder Girl shouted in distress, ponytail lashing him in the face. "Your brother's…dead? You let him die?"

"No, no!" he quickly cried, raising his hands out to stop the infuriated girl as Jericho and The Herald held her back. "My brother was dead, but he has been revived like myself a year prior to this madness."

"Wait, he was dead, but he came back to life?" Herald questioned, and Thunder nodded. "Man, you Titans South guys have all the fun. Yo, Wondy, how come we can't have adventures like that?"

Jericho nodded, signing, I wish we could go on exciting adventures like that, but a certain old man decided to keep us here.

"Joey, stop making fun of Mr. Jupiter," his mother scolded, waving her finger.

But...I don't like him. He's crotchety, Jericho replied, shrugging.

"Where is Argent?" Thunder asked, looking to Red Star, possibly the only real sane member of the group.

Red Star pointed off into another hallway. "Jinx has taken Argent down there to, eh, separate her from Kole."

"Did they fight or something?" Alfonsa wondered.

"Over who would talk to their boyfriend first," Herald sniggered until Wonder Girl bopped him over the head.

Risk, Hot Spot and Fringe took immediate notice to Jupiter who began approaching them. They tensed, unsure of what to say to him. After all, he was the man who trained them to utilize their powers and work as a united team. Jupiter scanned over all of them, taking in each of their appearance. He hadn't seen them in some time, almost surprised at how mature they looked. Yet, there was still irresolute fear once he arrived over to them, and he recollected on how arrogant and nervous they were when he first met them. Jupiter sighed, shaking his head, and the trio winced.

"Uh, hey, boss man," Risk greeted cheekily, waving slightly. "How ya been?"

As Fringe elbowed Risk in the shoulder, Hot Spot crossed his arms, demanding, "What do you want, Jupiter?"

"I just…wanted to see how you were doing," Jupiter replied with an ill smile. "Is that alien world still horrible?"

"Terrible! Worst place you'll ever see," Risk informed, throwing up his hands.

Fringe nodded. "And Prysm had the worst of it. She'll be okay, but I hope she stays with us this time."

"It's not like she can go home. I mean, she betrayed her people," Hot Spot added.

"But the three of you are all right?" Jupiter questioned.

"Course we are! We're the H'san Natall hybrids! We're not gonna die that easy! When Thunder broke my nose, I just snapped it back into place!" Risk jeered, tapping his nose in confirmation.

"Yeah, but he still beat you up pretty good," Hot Spot snorted, deflating Risk's ego.

"Like you should talk! He threw you!" Risk countered.

Fringe rolled his eyes, amused by their simplistic banter. "Man, how can people even stand talking to you guys? Your parents must have been saints."

"Shut up, werewolf!" Risk shouted.

"Don't call me that!" Fringe roared, raising his claws as Hot Spot felt a bead of sweat roll down the back of his head.

Jupiter felt his intelligence drop a few notches as he watched the trio fall into an argument, walking away towards Thunder who began down a corridor. He watched him hurry as the others made busy with the other mothers, and Cara dragged Kole off somewhere. Jupiter glanced down at Cara, noting how beautiful she was with her soft, silken, ebony hair and sparkling black orbs. He smirked, knowing that a relationship would be impossible so he decided to go try and break Omen away from Gnarrk.

Why? Jupiter does not ship Omen and Gnarrk, and he never will…ever.

Thunder hurried down the hallways, throwing open every door and peered inside. He found his friends' rooms, closing the door quickly, but stopped when he found Red Star's room. There was a Pantha plush doll on his bed, and he blinked, taking out his communicator and took a picture. Smiling at the new blackmail, he pocketed his communicator and stepped out of the room. However, Red Star stood right behind him and raised his own device, revealing a very, very intimate picture of him and Argent.

"Yes, I know what you two did last summer," Red Star sneered.

"B-but how? W-we were not aware of our surroundings! The green one pushed me!" Thunder blurted, waving his arms exasperatedly.

Red Star smirked, glancing back down at the picture. "Believe me, when I took this picture of you two falling over each other with your hand on her…ample chest, I was rather amused. Now, if you do not want this plastered on the internet, you will delete that picture."

Thunder grumbled, flipping out his communicator and obeyed. Exposing his blank screen, he frowned deeply. "We are no longer friends."

"Oh, you do not mean that," Red Star chortled, pushing Thunder into another room. "Have fun with your girlfriend."

"At least I have a girlfriend! You are cuddling with a mere doll!" Thunder snapped.

"Actually, while you were in space, Pantha and I became an official couple. We bought matching plush dolls of each other and adopted Wildebeest." Red Star smirked, laughing at his baffled expression before patting his head. About to close the door, he smiled and snickered, "Please, take your time in here, and, if you will, try to be quiet as you kiss."

Thunder shot a turquoise beam at the door, but Red Star flew out of the way just in time. Fuming as he slammed the door shut, he crossed his arms and grumbled to himself, mumbling about how much of a fool Red Star was. He glanced over his shoulder, flicking on a nearby light and gasped lightly. There was Argent, simply lying in a chair, fast asleep. Her head was hung onto her shoulder, eyes closed like an angel ready to awaken and face the world. Thunder gaped slightly, noting the dark blue blanket wrapped around her. Jinx must have placed it on her, and he would be sure to thank her later. Thunder approached her tentatively, kneeling down in front of her and smiled, always believing in how beautiful she was. Thunder did not want to disturb her, sighing and stood up to leave when a foot booted him on his back. Yelping, he whirled around and found Argent gone. Blinking in surprise, he instantly tried locating her when two hands covered his eyes from behind.

"Guess who," the lovely British accent purred.

"Hm, allow me to guess, my dear?" Thunder questioned, smiling and turned around.

Argent embraced Thunder tightly, wrapping her arms around his neck as his hands held onto her waist. He chuckled, stroking through her somewhat spiky hair, simply happy to be with her. The adventure was over, he realized, as he was finally together with the love of his life. Thunder kissed her forehead, bringing her back simply to gaze at her, seeing if she was real. His head cocked to the side, sighing through his nose as Argent brought up her communicator and revealed a rather embarrassing photograph of Red Star and Pantha at a party.

"Don't worry about Red Star. Wonder Girl snagged me a photo of him and Pantha cuddling together on the couch," Argent informed, winking.

"I love how the first thing we speak of is of our friends' intimate moments," Thunder stated, smiling broadly.

Argent laughed into her palm, shoulders shaking gently. Pocketing her communicator, she beamed up to him, asking, "So, you're all right?"

Thunder glanced away sheepishly and sighed. "I am now because of your presence, dear, but…"

Argent perked up, concerned at his sudden downtrodden personality. "What's wrong?"

Thunder sat down in the chair she previously slept in, staring at his mighty, pale blue hands in what she discerned as disgusted shame. "I am so horrified at myself to reveal this to you, but I cannot lie to you. On that world, I-I almost murdered King Ch'ah. H-he killed my brother, and I was so consumed by rage, that I…I…"

"Wait, is Lightning dead?" She leaned forward, getting on one knee and took his shivering hand.

"Thank Hsuan, he is not. He has been revived, and he is now having a playful banter against Wildfire on the roof," Thunder informed, and Argent exhaled a breath of relief. "Yet, when he died, I-I lost myself. I beat Ch'ah into submission, and I was going to kill him!" Thunder broke off with a sharp breath, averting his gaze from her large, ruby orbs. "But I did not. I managed…I managed to control myself with the help of my father."

"But Walter's dead," Argent deadpanned, raising an eyebrow.

"He appeared to me as an apparition, a sort of ghostly figure. My brother was revived when I forgave Ch'ah for his heinous crimes. If I…if I killed him…" Thunder fists clenched, fingers digging into his palms so much that they nearly bled. "…then I would no better than Ch'ah. I-I would just be a monster. After the battle, I still have conflicting feelings. Am I monster? Have I become just like him? Even with my brother's reassurance that I am still Thunder, I cannot be at ease. If you had seen what I had done, you would surely-!"

"Surely what? Run away?" Argent scoffed, shaking her head negatively. At his depressed expression, Argent smiled and cupped his chin lightly, making him gaze at her in wonder. "Come on, don't think that way. You're not like Ch'ah."

"But how are you certain?"

"Because I know you. If I were in your place, I'd want to destroy him for all of the pain he's caused, but, Thunder, you're not a murderer. You only killed because you had to a year ago when your father decided to try and take over the world. Ch'ah was going to do the same, and he killed your brother. It was a natural feeling."

"When you state it like that, it sounds animalistic, but…yes, it felt natural." Thunder sighed. "I only hope I never have to feel that hideous emotion."

"And you won't."

Thunder returned his gaze back to her, finding her to be closing in with a genuine smile on her face. Deciding to play, he grinned and questioned, "Oh? I will not be?"

"Since I'll be right by your side, helping you through the pain this time. We've lost a lot of time together when we were separated. I want to make that up now that we're home." Argent sat on his knee, and he wrapped his arms around her waist. Kissing his forehead, she smirked. "Don't worry about it anymore, blue boy. It's like what you said when we were fighting Axis. All that stuff about learning from our past to build our future. You should take your own advice, Gan."

Thunder beamed, cheeks a light pink and nodded. "I am just pleased to finally be back here with you. I-"

Crrreeeeak.

"Lightning!" they shouted furiously.

The yellow elemental stood there, blinking. "Have you two been 'making out' in here?"

Thunder pointed to the door, reddening like a tomato. "Brother! Leave!"

Lightning continued standing, but a large, cruel smile appeared on his face. "Oh, and silver wretch? Just remember that I will be watching your every move, and if you think of hurting my brother, I will ensure your death will be…" Lightning charged up his hand threateningly, an evil smirk stretched across his face. "…most painful." With that, Lightning exited and shut the door.

"Gosh, what a creep," Argent grumbled.

"My brother will not harm you," Thunder vowed. "I will make sure of that."

Argent giggled, leaning into his shoulder and sighed. "I'm still wondering where we can get some clothes. This armor is annoying. How can you stand to wear it all the time?"

"I do not wear anything underneath when I wear my normal armor."

Argent stared at him blankly, mouth a thin, straight line.

Thunder tapped her nose, smirking. "I am kidding."

She punched him in the shoulder, blushing furiously, shouting, "Thunder!"

He laughed, unbridled joy streaking through him as he embraced her tightly. He felt his mouth rip upwards, an eternal grin on his face that would forever be Argent's. Thunder rubbed her back in calming circles, and the feeling that he was home rushed back into him. They were finally together, and they could start their lives over with their love. Nothing and no one would be able to separate them again. Thunder and Argent looked back to each other, smiling, and closed the gap between them.

…

Lightning wandered aimlessly through the halls of Titans North. He was lost…again. The last time he visited, Jericho had to drag him out of the chimney. How he got stuck, no one knew. Lightning refused to tell anyone, but Jericho found out, using it as clever blackmail to get whatever he wanted from the sallow Titan. After battling Wildfire with the conclusion a tie, he had waved his younger friend off who was going to see Starfire for the first time in years. Lightning smiled, knowing he was a noble comrade and warrior, and he believed that he would rule Tamaran wisely when his time came.

He had stumbled in through the latch, going in the opposite way his brother went and ended up down a few hallways. When he found his brother and Argent in that deplorably intimate position, Lightning could not resist taunting and letting her know her place in their family. After all, she was still a silver wretch no matter what pretty name his brother called her. He sneered to himself, humming a Vietnamese hymn his mother used to sing when he was a child. Walking into another hallway, he stopped, arms behind his head and blinked.

"Mother? Kole?" he questioned, finding Cara holding up Kole by her white blouse, pinning her against the wall. "Um, what is-?"

Cara dropped Kole onto her bottom, a sweet, maternal smile immediately coming to her face. Kole rubbed her head, muttering obscenities to herself on how Cara was crazy. The Vietnamese woman snapped her head back down to Kole, and the crystallizing girl cringed, cowering at her mighty presence. The seemingly innocent smile remained, requesting Kole to remember what they "talked" about, and Cara waved to her son before leaving.

"Uh, what were you and my mother speaking of?" Lightning wondered, helping Kole to her feet.

"Well, your mom just threatened to kill me if I ever cheated or anything bad," Kole grumbled.

Oh, so that is where I received my protective nature, Lightning thought, recalling how defensive he was over Thunder whenever Argent was in the picture.

"Gnarrk's gonna flip when I tell him about this," Kole suddenly stated as they walked through the halls.

"What?" Lightning inquired.

"You know, about us."

Lightning hummed, nodding. "Kole, may I ask you something?"

"Sure, Lightning."

"Do you…like carnivals?"

Kole smiled broadly, slipping her hand into his, and he tightened the grip slightly. "I love them! They're so much fun!"

"Well, if you find them so amusing, I know of a wondrous fair arriving in Jump City. Would you like to accompany me?"

"Is this what you were talking about in that cell?" She was breathless, gaping happily as Lightning smirked and bashfully scratched his head. "I had no idea you were planning this. I'd love to!"

Lightning grinned back, beaming at her approval. Though, he just needed one last thing to confirm his feelings and began to lean down. He closed his eyes, unsure of what to do when Kole placed her fingers to his lips, effectively stopping him. Lightning's eyes snapped open, widening abruptly that he stumbled backwards and asked why she stopped him. His reply was her shaking her finger negatively, bringing an aggravated vein to his forehead.

"Wait, girls don't kiss until the third date or they're tramps," Kole informed, and Lightning blinked, slowly nodding. "I mean, I know how I feel about you, Lightning, but your mom was just about to beat me up…"

Goodness, Hsuan! I believe I have found not a mistress, but a girl of pure heart! A true angel! Lightning thought, embracing her tightly. "Oh, you are such a beautiful woman! I cannot believe how grateful to have a mate like you!"

Kole gasped, mouth parting in shock as Lightning nuzzled her into her bubblegum locks. Giggling, she wrapped her arms around his neck as he held onto her snugly. For a complete fool, Lightning had his own special charm, one unique to him. Being boisterous, egotistical, and kind, a package wrapped up in the form of a handsome, courageous elemental. She couldn't have been any happier, pecking his cheek as Lightning chuckled at the affection.

"Oh, my God, what is this this? I don't even-!" Gnarrk fainted dead away, making gurgling noises and twitched uncontrollably.

"…Is he…is he dead?" Lightning wondered as they approached the cringing caveman.

Kole knelt down by him, poking his head before shrugging. She felt his heartbeat, finding it to be steady and erratic. His blood pressure was acting up again, but she would worry about that later or find Omen to deal with it. Grasping Lightning's hand, she chuckled as they began walking away, stating, "Well, he had to find out sooner or later. I guess it's better that we got it over with now."

Lightning burst into laughter, wrapping his arm around her shoulder. "True! So very true!"

…

After things had settled down, and stories were told, Titans South, North, and the adults were sitting in the living room relaxing. Red Star was waving around Thunder's blackmail, but Lightning surprisingly stepped in with his own blackmail of him in a bunny suit for Pantha's birthday. Red Star shut up around the brothers for the rest of the evening. Jupiter had decided to sit next to Argent and attempt to make peace with them, but Thunder punched him in the face again.

"We are never going to get along, are we?" Jupiter grumbled, rubbing his bruised cheek.

"Never," Thunder snarled, pulling Argent close to him.

"Wait, blue boy," Argent urged, detangling herself from him and stood over Jupiter. "What do you have to say to me?"

Jupiter found Argent's hand in front of his face, blankly gazing at it. There was a chance of redemption in her scarlet eyes, a slight hope of her forgiving him for forcing to perform the bombing. Taking her hand, she dragged him to his feet, and he bowed his head sorrowfully, murmuring his apology. There was a moment of silence as Jupiter raised his head to see her reaction. It was not what he expected in the least.

"That's it? A measly 'sorry'? Are you kidding me? You made me kill over a thousand people! Innocent people! Children, Jupiter, that had nothing to do with it!" Argent snapped, pushing him backwards onto the floor. "All you've got for me is a 'sorry'? I figured that maybe you could have changed, but no! Looks like I was wrong again!"

"My father was trying to protect you!" Omen defended, stepping in front of them.

"What he has done only harmed Argent! How is that of any protection?" Thunder shouted, coming to Argent's aid.

"She's right, Lilith," Jupiter murmured, adjusting his glasses.

"Father…" Omen trailed off as Jupiter stood, sighing.

"You're right. All I have done caused you misery. I should have been the one to drop that bomb, not just pin everything on you. It was my fault that those people perished, not your's at all." Jupiter suddenly dropped to his knees, hand poised in front of him and shuddered, almost like he was about to cry. "I am so sorry. Please, you do not have to forgive me, but I just want you to know how sorry I am."

Argent crossed her arms, exchanging a look with Thunder before smirking. Kneeling down in front of Jupiter, she extended her fingers and smirked. "C'mon, old man. Don't be so depressed. Now, you actually sound sorry. Let's let bygones be bygones."

"Wait, you…you forgive me?" Jupiter stammered, taking her hand and gaped. When she nodded with Thunder reluctantly smiling, he felt a tentative grin spread across his face. "Thank you, Antonia. Your forgiveness is truly gracious."

Slap!

Alfonsa retracted her hand, glaring at Jupiter who spiraled back to the floor. The Italian woman, filled with rage, snatched Jupiter and repeatedly smashed his head against the floor. She punched him across the nose, practically breaking every bone in his face until Thunder and Red Star dragged her off. Alfonsa cursed like a sailor, screaming haughtily until the Russian covered her mouth. Cara chomped down onto his hand, making him yelp and wave his hand, accidentally setting her free.

"You pompous, arrogant, just-like-my-ex-husband, son of a-!" Cara cut herself off, punching Jupiter in the face and grasped her daughter by the arm. "Come on, Toni, we're going home! Take your boyfriend and friends, and get us to the ship! Let's go, Cara!"

"Uh, what about me?" Kid Flash asked, raising his hand and pointed to his foot.

"Don't worry, I'll help you out, Wally," Wonder Girl offered, picking him up in one arm and his wheelchair in the other.

"Aw, thanks, Donna," Kid Flash replied.

Jinx raised an eyebrow, stepping over to the Amazon princess and tapped her shoulder. "Excuse me, but how do you know Kid Flash's first name?"

"Oh, we grew up together. Since Kid Flash was trained under the Flash, and me under Wonder Woman, we just kinda got to know each other," Wonder Girl informed.

"Do I detect jealousy, Jinx?" Kid Flash sneered.

Jinx punched his broken ankle, and a painful shriek ripped from Kid Flash's throat. "Whatever! Like I'd be envious over you!"

"That's jealousy, all right," The Herald muttered to Jericho who nodded in response.

"Did you two say something?" Jinx roared, charging up her hands, and the two shook their heads rapidly. "That's what I thought."

"So, Kole, I will pick you up tomorrow, yes?" Lightning questioned, and she nodded.

"Still, never gonna 'prove," Gnarrk hissed, crossing his arms.

"Aw, come on, Gnarrk!" Kole whined.

"Nope," he growled, glaring over to Lightning.

Cara gasped suddenly, covering her mouth and cried, "Wait, Loren, what of that woman I battled? Queen Miraset?"

Jupiter's eyes widened in horror, turning to his team of Titans and the other H'san Natall hybrids in shock. Fringe, Risk, and Hot Spot dived down towards the medical wing. He tapped his foot impatiently, biting his nails nervously and faced his daughter, asking if she could see what had happened to Miraset. However, as much as she tried, Omen could not as she could only see the future, not the present.

"Prysm's gone!" Hot Spot barked, returning.

"But how could anyone break in here? Red Star designed the security, and he has the biggest, awesomest defense system the made Cyborg drool!" Herald snapped.

"But it is only Miraset," Argent stated. "How could she be of any threat?"

"Believe me, Miraset is a bad chick," Risk explained, crossing his arms. "Remember when she nearly zapped me with that death ray?"

"Oh, yeah," Argent muttered, looking away sheepishly.

"Well, it is only Prysm and Miraset," Hot Spot replied, shrugging. "What harm can they do?"

"Dude, you just jinxed us. Thanks a freaking lot," Kid Flash snapped, rolling his eyes as the members of Titans South, Cara, and Alfonsa stormed up the stairs.

While the members of Titans South readjusted themselves into Jupiter's plane, Thunder and Lightning glanced up to the sky, finding an unfamiliar presence. However, they found nothing disconcerting with the clouds, so they passively boarded. The brothers smiled at each other, linking their arms through each other and sat together. Lightning leaned into his twin, sighing happily, and, for once, he was happy the mission was over. The horrible memory of his brother's savagery would never return, knowing his brother would always love him in a special way that no one else could comprehend. Thunder sighed, rubbing his brother's back comfortingly as Lightning chuckled.

"Tired?" Thunder asked.

"Somewhat," Lightning replied softly. "I believe our battle only proves that Lightning is better warrior."

Thunder gently chuckled sarcastically, pulling Lightning close to his chest. "Please, brother, we both know who the better fighter is. Besides, I was under the influence of a madman, meaning my skills were not at the top of my prowess."

They laughed, holding onto each other and fell asleep. For the moment, there was peace, lasting in their still darkness of sleep. The brothers had each other and ones that loved them, people who truly cared and loved them. With King Ch'ah finally defeated, they were reunited with absolute love in their bond. Nothing would ever separate them again, swearing it in their hearts as they dreamed.

…

"Mother?" Prysm whispered, awakening to find Queen Miraset, looming over her.

"Hello, sweetie," her mother replied soothingly and pressed down against her forehead, smiling.

"W-where am I?' she wondered, trying to sit up, but the pain in her side, resulted in her falling back down.

"We're going home, darling, but don't worry, I'll be sure to make everything right. This time…" She pulled out a communicator and with an engraved 'S'. "…I have help."

…

Yeah, the last chapter! Yay! Thank you for reading, and please leave a review!

For the sequel, it will be called Brothers and feature Titans South and North, but will concentrate mostly on Thunder and Lightning, obviously.