Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“You’re avoiding me.”

Zatanna stopped dead in her tracks, throat suddenly dry. 

With only half an hour until midnight, she had successfully eliminated any chance at being pulled aside, flitting amongst the other heroes, alcohol buzzing her senses as they all mingled. Some recounted memories while others claimed resolutions for the new year. It was easy to get lost in the hazy warmth of it all. 

She slipped away for only a moment, but that’s all he needed. She should’ve dragged Artemis with her to the bathroom after all.

A breathy laugh slipped from her lips. “No shit.”

The thrumming music and twinkling lights from the sky-top venue began to make her head spin.

His fingers ghosted her wrist as he took a few steps closer, a tender warmth in his voice. “Zatanna, please-”

“I’m trying,” she said, dragging him around the nearest corner, “to not make a scene. But you’re making that a little difficult right now.”

She looked him in the eyes then, trying and failing to hide a shuddering breath. 

“Me? You’re the one making this harder than it needs to be. We still operate around the same people, on the same team.” He reasoned, frustration pulling at his features. Zatanna cursed herself; it really wasn’t fair how good he looked right now. 

“So why don’t you just let this go, let me go?”

She was being ridiculous, but she couldn't help the anxieties that lapped at her ankles, the guilty ache that maybe he deserved better.

It wasn’t until his hand tightened around hers that she realized this was who he was, a friend, a teammate, a partner who would never let anyone fall without being there to help them right back up.

“You’re too good for this,” she said, the last bits of the defensive wall she so carefully set in place crumbling. “You never should've gotten caught up in any of it.”

“I love you, Zee,” he said softly, searching her face. “I think I knew what I was signing up for a long time ago.”

Dick brought his free hand to her cheek as she looked away.

“And you’re sure this is what you really want?”

“Don’t be like that.” He murmured, swiping at a stray tear. 

She shook her head. “Sometimes I worry this is all a dream, that one day I’ll wake up and you’re not there. I’m,” she took a breath, leaning into his touch, “I’m sorry I pushed you away.”  

The party continued around them, but all Zatanna could focus on were those gentle eyes staring back at her. She brushed the hair beginning to fall loose over his eyes away.

“For better or worse, you can’t keep me away for long. And I know you can’t resist my charm–”

“Alright, alright,” she smirked, settling her fingers on his lips to effectively quiet the gloating.

The soft glow of the night danced in her eyes, and Dick leaned ever closer. 

“Can I kiss my girlfriend?” He whispered. She moved to trace the dimples from his growing smile. 

“You may,” she replied before easily melting into his touch, chasing after his mouth when he pulled away for air. 

Echoes of early fireworks sounded outside as midnight quickly approached. While the rest of the group began the countdown, Dick pulled Zatanna close to his chest, whispering in her ear. “Happy anniversary, baby.”

“Happy anniversary,” she breathed, pulling away only enough to meet his lips with her own. "I love you."

Chapter Text

A mixture of hushed questions and soft crying sounded all throughout the kingdom’s walls. The people of the kingdom were gathered along the edges of the cobblestone streets, watching intently as the royal casket made its way up to the castle. 

The casket itself was made of dark cherry wood, masterfully carved to perfection by local carpenters. The edges were sanded smooth and gloss-coated with varnish; the sun’s bright rays caused it to almost glow against the dreary streets. Fixed to the top was a large bouquet of (insert flowers after research). 

The news had spread like wildfire, first by rumor among the nobles, and members of the court scrambled to maintain some type of order in the soon-to-be chaos once word officially got out. Eventually, it traveled to the townsfolk below, and hushed conversations were had throughout, curious if such a horrid thing could really be true. 

Several horsemen led at the front of the group, the hooves clicking along at a steady pace. The heavy casket followed behind while more riders flanked the group. Both young and old stared on as their ruler lay dead before them. Some stood in the doorways of their shops, grumbling about diminishing sales with the procession. Others peered outside the windows of their homes with a rag, swiping away stray tears. Those of the royal court stood close to the castle, murmuring among one another as the casket finally reached the castle’s gates. Stationed at the gate were the king’s knights, standing tall as they received their king one last time. Off along the front yard stood the noble students and mages. 

“I can't believe the king is truly dead.” A boy draped in dark robes whispered to the girl beside him.

Her blue eyes met his under her gray hooded cloak. “It’s as they say. Though, who’s to succeed the throne?” She questioned in a hushed tone. The boy only shrugged in response. 

Turning her attention back to the last few members of the procession, she locked eyes with a boy directly across the way. She guessed he was about her age, dressed in nice clothes and a long cloak. He appeared troubled, somewhat lost in thought, and she couldn’t blame him. They were all left confused, lost as to how this could possibly happen. 

Little did she know that the boy, along with the older man standing beside him, knew something nobody else in the kingdom knew.

The casket was empty.

— one year later —

“A knight is to be assigned to your person. They will accompany you along this journey, acting as your guard and loyal confidant.” The wise voice filled the room, its stone walls draped with banners and scavenged souvenirs from all across the land. “You must remain–”

“Hidden among the shadows, moving swiftly in the dark of night,” the younger man interrupted in a dramatic tone. “I am well aware, Alfred. You know I’ve traveled similar routes before with no trouble.”

“Dick, this pursuit is of an entirely higher risk, and you know that. Too much is at stake here. This is not a child’s mission within the kingdom’s gates, and you mustn’t take it lightly by any such means.”

Dick let out a sigh and brushed a hand through his hair. “Yes, Alfred. I know what must be accomplished and all that could be lost if we fail.” 

“Good.” The man smiled and set his hand on Dick’s shoulder. “Do try to appreciate the land and people around you as you travel. There is much to learn beyond these old castle walls.”

Ever since Bruce’s disappearance, Alfred had been growing more concerned for Dick. The kingdom as a whole was on edge. Patrols became more frequent, surveying the grounds, ensuring the safety of the people. Patrons of the shops in the marketplace were required to complete their purchases earlier in the day as places began closing at an earlier time in an effort to reduce foot traffic after dark. Despite the additional safeguards put into place, the people remained uneasy. 

It was finally decided to bring these times to an end. The days of worry and unrest would soon be replaced with celebration and merriment. This result rested upon the shoulders of Dick Grayson, heir to the throne.

Dick prepared himself as the day to embark finally arrived. The sun was about to set in an hour's time, and he would meet with his knight along the castle’s edge, near the wooded land beyond. He surveyed the items he set aside for the journey and began arranging them in his bag. Due to the distance they were to cover, and the trip's true length unknown, he packed the essentials for survival, nothing more. After the sleeping mat was rolled and packed, he added a couple of pairs of spare clothes on top. In a small pouch, Dick tucked away bandage wrappings, a few salves, and a small tin of honey. He stashed a few small portions of food at the top of his bag before tying it closed. What remained he would carry on his person.

With one last sweep of the room, Dick tugged on a tall pair of leather boots, tucking his loose pant legs into place. He wore a dark, sleeved blouse with leather wraps on his forearms. At his waist, Dick sheathed his dual short swords and slipped a smaller knife in his pocket. Satisfied, he tucked away the map he had drawn up and gathered the dark cloak before swinging the bag over his shoulder and making his way outside.

Alfred met him in the long, winding passages hidden away from the rest of the people in the castle. One last time, they ran through the plan from start to finish, ensuring every detail was ironed out to perfection. In theory, it would be a straightforward mission: get in, get out, and return home in one piece. The myriad of uncertainties along the way is what troubled Alfred.

They reached the small stone door leading to the outside elements. Dick stepped forward and, shoving hard with his shoulder, braced against the stiff door. It scraped open along the cobblestone pathway outside, and the two exited the castle. Alfred led the way to the designated meeting place. It was dimly lit, a lone torch fixed to the weathered wall a few paces away. As the two waited, Dick’s mind began to wander.

“Remember, you mustn’t tell anything of the true plan. Not until you have reached the destination.”

Another truth to keep hidden away with all of the others. Dick understood; he had secrets of his own, of course. As the years went on, part of him feared he might never be able to be wholly honest with anyone in his life.  

Alfred’s voice cut through his stray thoughts. “Your Royal Highness, Master Zatara.”

Zatara. He had heard the name before, but where? Of the knights Dick had interacted with, he was not familiar with any with that name. 

He turned to the approaching figure, seeming to have appeared out of the misty fog dusting the courtyard edges. A dark cloak wrapped around their frame, billowing out behind them in soft waves as they walked. Tall leather boots clicked softly against the stone path and paused just short of a few steps away from him. He could not make out their face until small gloved hands pulled back the draping hood. Dick was left speechless as bright blue eyes stared back at him. The girl before him placed one foot behind her and bowed. 

“Your Royal Highness, I have trained beneath my father and learned from the finest of the magi and masters in the kingdom. I swear to serve you well and protect you with the power and magicks vested within me,” she said in a practiced tone, a nervous edge seeping through.

Eyes downcast, the pounding of Zatanna’s heart grew louder every second that passed.

Why hasn’t he said anything? Was he displeased, or maybe expecting someone taller, wiser, more attractive?

Her thoughts ran wild until the older man beside him cleared his throat. That seemed to have broken the spell.

“Master Zatara, no need for such formalities.” The Grand Duke held out an arm to her in greeting. Looking up, she straightened and grasped his gloved hand after hesitating a second. His hand fit around hers nicely, she noted quietly before quickly brushing the observation aside. “Please, call me Dick. We’ll be spending some time together; I’d like for us to be friends… if you so wish?”

Friends? She was not expecting such casualness. It wasn't that she imagined him unkind, but perhaps spoiled, more demanding; it only seemed fitting, being royalty and all. Zatanna looked at him, his blue eyes looking right back at her expectantly. She dipped her chin and shook his hand once before pulling away.

“I would like that. I’m Zatanna,” she said as her nerves began to settle. “It’s nice to meet you.”

“The pleasure is all mine, Zatanna,” he smiled, and she felt her own lips tug upwards. He didn’t miss the soft pink dusting her cheeks, wishing her palm was still pressed against his own, but his straying thoughts were quickly interrupted. 

“Good. Now that you two are acquainted, let me remind you both of the importance of your success. You are to stay close to one another’s side and avoid any and all unnecessary diversions or distractions. Is this clear?” Alfred addressed them both. Zatanna and Dick shared a look and gave a quick nod.

“Excellent, I wish you both luck on your journey.”

“Thank you, Alfred. I will send word as soon as we reach safe ground.” Dick held the man’s forearm and brought him in for a firm embrace. He pulled away with a determined grin. 

“Farewell, Dick. Farewell, Master Zatara.”

“Sir, I will take proper care of his Highness.” Zatanna gave a small bow. 

“I have good faith you will, and that he will be a fine traveling companion,” he replied, a twinkle in his eye as he turned to Dick. Narrowing his eyes, Dick gave the older man a look, surmising Alfred had a hand in this partnership. Zatanna pulled the hood atop her head once more while Dick fixed his cloak around his shoulders.

“Shall we begin?” She asked, one foot turned to face the foggy woods.

“Lead the way, master of magicks,” he replied with a boyish grin. 

Chapter Text

“You’re drunk.” He said it so matter-of-factly, as if he wasn’t drinking from the same bottle as her, its contents nearly dry on the table before them.

“And you’re not?”

Zatanna’s cheeks burned hot, and she chose to ignore the slight slur of her words, consonants and vowels swirling together into one. He knew what she meant regardless, he always did. In fact, they’d get by just fine if they could never utter another word; his gaze was enough, watchful eyes catching the littlest of details, the shift in emotions found in every twitch and line and movement; fingers tracing–mapping out every edge and contour of the other’s body, burning to memory what felt good, right. 

“No, not as drunk as you.” Dick reached for her, smirking hard at her weak attempt to wriggle away from his grasp. She giggled, sinking into his side as his large hand curved around her waist, the other drawing little patterns against her thigh.

Zatanna hummed, the contempt vibration felt against his neck spreading down throughout his entire body. Oh, the things she did to him without even trying. 

“What are you thinking about?” He asked, the teasing now gone from his voice. The fireplace danced across the room, setting their apartment aglow in soft oranges and yellows. 

Zatanna was quiet for a moment before catching his eye in the low light. 

“Nothing saintly,” she offered with a hint of a smile, noting the way his fingers flexed against her side. 

“And suddenly I wish I were a telepath.”  

She ran a hand along his chest, leaning further into him. Dick was beyond entranced, something about her effortlessly overpowering all else. The pads of his fingertips itched to undo the buttons down the front of her shirt, the first few already undone teasing him.

Her lips grazed the side of his neck. “Well, if you must know,” she started, voice low. “I was thinking about your head between my thighs.”

Oh.

“Fuck, Zee.” His hand shifted from her waist, sliding up under her shirt until his thumb rested beneath the edge of her bra. His breath fanned across her cheek. “Are you sure you aren’t reading my mind?”

She found the sensitive spot along his jaw, trailing slowly to just beneath his ear. 

“And if I said I wanted it now?”

For a second he thought he imagined her words, erratic heart rate pounding in his ears. But her expectant gaze told him otherwise. 

Zatanna gasped, eyes wide when he had her on her back before she could even blink. “Well we can’t have you waiting any longer, can we?”