Disclaimer: I do not own Teen Titans, and this fanfiction poem is not making me any money, regrettably.
A/N: Originally written early(ish) 2009. "Apprentice"-centered-'cause it was the GREATEST Teen Titans episode there could ever be. Review, if it's not too much trouble. I need constructive criticism and praise...
"Nothing More"
I won't let you see my reaction.
I won't give you the satisfaction
Of knowing that you've cut me to the core.
I'll be your apprentice, but nothing more.
I'll steal for you, but I won't get a thrill.
My heart doesn't race for the joy of the kill.
It pounds in my chest while I gaze at my friends
And wonder if here is where our friendship ends.
A father to me, you will not become,
Although that ruse might have worked on some.
I'm wise to you and all your tricks—
Betrayal and loyalty cannot mix.
I'll sneak and loot and run, and then
I'll go out the next night and do it again.
I'll battle the Titans, and beat them, too,
At nothing more than a word from you.
I'll wear the suit you made for me,
With your mark on my chest for all to see.
I will obey your every command,
To the slightest gesture from your hand.
I'll fight till I can fight no more.
I'll let you drub me to the floor.
I'll bear it all, come back for more;
Just don't hurt them—this I implore.
I'll be whatever you want me to be,
But I won't be like you—can't you see?
Though I sense with disquiet what you have in store,
Though I'm still your apprentice, I'm nothing more.
"Vicious," "dishonorable," and "ruthless," too—
You think you can cause me to be like you?
You think you can fashion me into a crook,
Or get me to take a leaf out of your book?
Yes, you and I are much the same,
But I won't play into your game.
Until this deal ends, and I'm free,
Deep down inside, I'll still be me.
I know how much you hate to lose,
But I'm not yours—I won't be used.
The time has come. I'm settling the score.
I'm not your apprentice, Slade—not anymore.
—The End—