Chapter 08: Omens from the father.
It has been an hour until Raven felt that most of the Titans were returning while in the meantime light rain started pouring outside her window as she tried to use her powers to fix some of the damage her little episode from earlier created. It had taken her some considerable effort until she manged to fix everything but the electronics as she collapsed from exhaustion on her bed, however as her teammate's emotional presence increased she Raven couldn't tell anymore if it was her own or if she was bombarded by her friends. Speaking of friends, as they entered inside with Beast boy leading the charge they were greeted by Angela, or as they vaguely remembered her as Arella, before Beast boy turned around as Cyborg asked.
"what are you doing?"
Beast boy in his usual manner answered as such.
"just making sure we're entering the right house…."
At that Cyborg turned Beast boy around but not before coming and straightening his hair to which Beast boy asked what was his big deal.
"well you're meeting your wife's mother and I'm not gonna let you walk around the house like a schlemiel…."
Beast boy's only answer was a simple thanks while eternally his mind was racing with a million questions like ' why Cyborg was acting this way instead of Night-wing?, he was usually the fussy one, why didn't it bother him when his friend resurrected an old running gag, and most importantly how Cyborg knew what a 'schlemiel' actually is, was he half Jewish all along?'
At this moment he began to feel self conscious as he stared at the older woman awkwardly as he finally and suddenly spoke up.
" hello there…. may we help you with anything?"
At that Angela replied nonchalantly.
"you may… but I can manage by myself thanks….."
At that Beast boy was left stumped and stunned as he cleared his throat.
"that's funny….. you're a regular comedian, but in all seriousness can we Titans help you in anyway you know like…. your cat got stuck in a tree…. have you been mugged or is your spouse threatening your life in any way shape or form?"
Angela/Arella gave a dry laugh as she gave an appropriate response.
" as your friend lightly jabbed from before I'm your mother-in-law so unless you want me….."
Before she could finish the response a switch has been flipped in Beast boy's brain as he quickly exclaimed.
"of course what is wrong with me… I'll go prepare the guestroom"
Before she could respond Beast boy has already darted off to prepare the guest room as she simply said.
" well actually I don't mind not having my own room but I was getting kinda hungry…. should we call him back?"
At that Cyborg answered as Hawk, Kid Flash and Dove were snickering to their heart's content.
" no that's fine, the exercise will be good for him….. now please sit back and relax while I make dinner for us all… now what would you want to eat y'all?"
With that everyone present gave their own 2 cents ranging from Pizza, Spaghetti, Meatballs with Greek yogurt, even something simple for Beast boy like onion soup with melted cheese for Beast boy as he returned back into the living room, Cyborg taking notice of this addressed him.
" Beast boy just the man ive been looking for…. listen we're having a proper dinner for our guest, would you mind popping in the nearest convenience store?….. we need to restock stat."
At that Beast boy responded while pointed out the window.
" can't you see its raining cats and dogs out there?"
At that Cyborg and Angela said at the same time.
" well turn into a dog or a cat…. I'm sure someone will keep you company."
With that everyone began to chuckle as Beast boy just kept quiet, walking out of the living room taking the elevator down to the garage just as Night-wing and Starfire returned in the Porsche Richard drove.
"is everything okay Beast boy?… you seem pissed…."
At that Beast boy shrugged as he said the following.
"everything's peachy… I'm just running errands, we have a guest so be on your best behaviour"
At that Starfire excitedly asked as to who is visiting them so Beast boy replied casually.
"Raven's mother."
At that Night-wing quirked a smirk as he stated.
"well here's an observation that will make your day…. at least you get a quiet moment from the in-laws… that's more than the average man can hope for…."
At that beast boy gave a sharp stare as he said.
" alright I can see you both are in a good mood so I'll let you off the hook this time…. that said though can….. may I borrow your car?"
At that Night-wing simply replied.
"sure…. do you have a license?"
At that Beast boy was about to reply when Night-wing clarified.
" one given to you by the DMV not Batman…."
At that Beast boy's ears visibly drooped as he went outside quietly as Night-wing stated, feeling a little guilty.
"sorry man but you know my hands are tied on this"
Beast boy raised his arm halfheartedly telling him quietly ' I know' as Starfire spoke up.
"he'll be fine…. now let us return home and deliver the most wonderful of news."
At that Night-wing replied.
"let's wait until all of us are there….. that seems fair…."
By the time Night-wing and Starfire got inside heading to the living room Beast boy was transforming into various different animals trying the best he can to avoid the rain as best as he could heading towards a specific convenience store. The store wasn't big or impressive to look at, in fact quite the opposite, it was a mom and pop shop located near the sea on a busy intersection overlooking Titans tower and admittedly Beast boy wouldn't gave it a second look if he didn't save it's owner from small time crooks trying to make it big and one hell of a name, The G-stop. Landing in front of the store Beast boy reverted back to human form as he made sure to dry off his suit before entering in. Walking in he immediately noticed that there weren't a lot of shoppers as he quickly got what he came in for and headed straight for the cashier.
"the usual?"
Beast boy answered the cashier as follows.
"well…. yes and no…. we have an important guest… my wife….. girlfriend's mother."
The cashier, a scrawny young man with a quiet disposition, gave him a knowing nod as he handed Beast boy his groceries as he said.
"well you better not keep her waiting."
As Beast boy paid he jokingly asked.
"got any useful advice?"
The cashier knowing Beast boy almost like a family member responded as such.
" in the words of the sacred Iron Maiden… run to the hills, run for your life."
At that Beast boy began to laugh as he thanked the cashier stepping outside into the rain which only got worse however Beast boy did what was second nature to him, he made a joke about it.
" now… where I parked my gondola?… oh wait I didn't bring it"
At this point Beast bot transformed himself into an Andean Condor as he grabbed the groceries as careful as he could with his talons, once secured he took off towards home. It took about 10 to 15 minutes to reach the tower as by this point Beast boy landed on the roof. Entering with the groceries, he immediately headed towards the kitchen.
" thank you…. now go back to you room and change before you stain the carpets"
At that Beast boy's only response was.
" yes mammy whatever you say mammy"
At this Cyborg gave him a look that best can be summed up as a cross between annoyed and amused as he said the following.
"run…. before I kick your ass… you hear me?"
Before he could say another word Beast boy was already gone and with that Cyborg checked the groceries as a smile crept up on his face.
" he managed to get everything right…. good job Beast boy… should I tell him that?…. maybe later."
A good hour and a half passed as Beast boy now out of the shower and into a new clean uniform was passing Raven's room noticing that the locks were broken, out of worry he stepped inside only to find Raven asleep as he released a breath he didn't realized he was holding. At this point Beast boy knelt down as he kissed Raven's/Rachel's cheek.
" no offense but I literally have no strength to deal with you…. now go away."
At that Beast boy flashed her a grin saying.
" sorry can't do that right now….. dinner is about to be served… and naturally I worry about you."
At this point Raven turned towards him locking her gaze with his, taking a close look at Raven's/Rachel's features Beast boy could see she wasn't just being moody, with her eyes sunken in, her complexion even paler than usual and trembling body giving him chills down his spine, still, he only responded with this.
" that's okay…. save your strength…. I'll make sure to bring you something to your room in a bit."
With that Beast boy left the room almost running into and tackling Angela Roth.
" sorry mam, are you okay?"
At that Angela's response was.
"please no need for such formalities, and yes I'm perfectly fine…. I just came by to call Rachel… Raven for dinner"
Beast boy at that visibly relaxed as he replied.
"funny that's what I was doing, though she doesn't feel too well to join us for dinner… say do you know what she likes for dinner? Im serving her in her room so….."
At that Angela responded with.
"so you're asking me right?, sorry to say but she doesn't have a favorite in particular… she always acted and felt she was lucky even to be alive so she always saw it as rude to ask for more."
At that Beast boy gone silent for a few moments as both of them walked towards the kitchen as Beast boy asked.
" does she hates herself that much?"
At that Angela took her time before settling with this answer.
" sometimes I'm not sure…. however I'm sure about this much, she's been acutely aware of what and who she is and what she wants to be."
At this point Beast boy continued the conversation with.
" which is?"
At that Angela gave a wistful smile.
"as close to human she could be…. which I want to thank you Garfield"
At that Beast boy became a little bashful and self aware as he asked, or more like stated, the following.
" she told you didn't she?"
At that Angela gave a genuine smile as both reached a silent understanding as they reached the kitchen table just in time for dinner. As dinner went along Beast boy was eating in peace his onion soup, rather tried to eat it without getting his tongue burned and bruised , as his nose picked up on a funny smell, a burnt sensation, like somebody was using the grill right under his eyes, he tried in turn to ignore this sensation but the more time passed the stronger the sensation felt, like a developing migraine.
"Beast boy…. Greengo….. can you pass the salt please?"
Beast boy snapping out of it nonchalantly passed the salt, or to be accurate absentmindedly, as Cyborg asked.
"seriously though….. everything cool with you?"
Beast boy didn't know what to think so he looked for an answer that made sense for him.
"yeah….. just worried about Raven….. you know what I'll finish the meal in my room as I bring something for her."
At that Cyborg's only response was.
"okay….. but if you make a mess you're on your own."
With that Beast boy carefully picked up his bowl of soup as he took another for Raven as he asked.
"do I ever make a mess?"
At that all of the Titans said in unison.
"absolutely."
At that Beast boy's only response was to give a mocking grin as he asked no one in particular.
"is there an echo in here?"
With that he left for Raven's room not letting the rest of the Titans to get a word in as Angela kept on eating as the Titans resumed their meals as well. When Beast boy entered Raven's/Rachel's room he felt a chill running down his spines as though he stepped into the Arctic as Raven greeted him.
"is it just me? Or is the AC been working overtime?'
At that Raven's only response was.
"i don't know…. I've been cold for a while now…."
With a worried expression on his face Beast boy tried his best to give Raven/Rachel a big and warm smile stating.
" I brought onion soup… be careful it's supposed to be eaten pipping hot"
With that Raven tried to eat a little before quickly swallowing the bite she took out of the soup as she tried to cool down her mouth while Beast boy held in his reaction as she exclaimed.
" you said it's…. pipping hot…. not scorching….."
At that Beast boy let out an amused smile as Raven/Rachel quickly scolded.
" if you don't stop…. I'm punching you in the nose right here and now"
As Raven continued to try and eat her soup Beast boy produced a pair of ordinary glasses from his pocket, wearing them on his nose he asked.
"you wouldn't hit a guy with glasses now would you?"
At hearing that Raven responded with a dead pan manner.
" I'll hit you with them… plus seriously?"
Beast boys only answer was as followed.
" yes…. you can never know when you need a good pair of glasses"
Before the conversation could take a turn for the weirder the Titans alarm started to blare causing Raven/Rachel to grin.
"saved by the bell…. now go before you'll be left behind."
At that Beast boy gave a grin of his own replying.
"and you've got your own orders…finish that soup!"
With that Beast boy darted outside as he made his way towards the Titans.
" what we got this time guys?"
With that Night-wing answered.
" a bank robbery in progress…. though with what we had lately…."
With that the Titans that were present near Beast boy and Night-wing, Cyborg, Kid Flash and Starfire answered.
"be on your guard…."
At that Night-wing could only quip with.
"well at least I know they're listening."
It took a few minutes for the Titans to reach the bank being robbed as Gizmo, the mechanical midget, was keeping watch as Mammoth and a few low life hoods where currently trying to empty the safe.
"hey mush for brains…. we've got company…."
At this point Mammoth only gave a grunt replying.
" got it pipsqueak"
With that Mammoth rushed outside to attack the Titans, throwing squad cars and civilian vehicles at them as Gizmo's mind caught on.
" what the fuck?!….. does Mammoth even has a brain developed enough to talk?… better still, did he just insult me?"
However at this point one of the hired thugs came over to Gizmo to report that they breached the vault.
"that's nice….. what the fuck are you waiting for?….. an invitation?…. get the cash and run already"
With that the thug returned to the safe relieving it of it's contents as Gizmo turned again towards the exit only to see Mammoth getting thrown in the air at his precise direction uttering the only thing that came in mind.
" I'm fucked….."
With that Mammoth came crashing in face first into the floor with Gizmo barely dodging. As the battle ensued inside the Titans all focused on Mammoth and the rest of the goons so Gizmo tried his luck and escaping with his tail between his legs however he didn't count on Beast boy tapping on his shoulder, turning around Beast boy only grinned while he lost most of his color from his face.
"boo….."
With that Gizmo comically fainted as Beast boy just shrugged his shoulders while lending a hand against Mammoth. About an hour later the JCPD arrived at the scene to take the bank robbers away as Beast boy just wondered around aimlessly still thinking about that strange sensation he felt at the dinner table.
" got something on your mind?"
At that Beast boy snapped out taking a glance over to Night-wing replying.
"that's just it….. I'm not sure… what about you?"
Night-wing just grinned.
"you'd have to be a little more specific…."
At that Beast boy laughed in embarrassment as he continued on.
"okay…. fair enough….. recent events?"
Night-wing gave a quick thought before answering.
" well apart being engaged to Star…. I'd say Raven's mother return is a little too convenient… is that what you're driving at?"
At that Beast boy tensed up as he answered that hes not sure when Night-wing countered with.
" listen….. it's about 01:30 am….. lets return to the tower, get a goodnight sleep and then continue worrying in the morning."
At this point the police were taking statements from eyewitnesses and hostages while Mammoth, Gizmo and the payed thugs were driven off to prison as the Titans returned to the tower as well with Beast boy tagged along with Cyborg as Kid Flash ran back to the tower with Night-wing and Starfire shared a motorcycle ride. On the way back to the tower Beast boy laid down on the T cars backseat as Cyborg drove on.
" not to be a pain in the ass but can you wait until we get back home before you doze off?"
Beast boy at that answered sheepishly.
"sorry…."
At that Cyborg started to get worried a bit as he asked.
"hey…. everything cool back there?… should I crack a window open?"
Beast boy didn't mind in fact he didn't say anything so Cyborg took it as a yes, as the windows slightly opened though no gust of air came in, in fact the air felt dry and after a few minutes of complete silence Beast boy spoke up.
" say Cy….. how do you exactly detect a demon anyway?"
Cyborg's only response was.
" do me a favor…. tell me it isn't one of your bad jokes…"
With that Beast boy quickly responded.
" hey this isn't a joke….."
Hearing the seriousness of Beast boy's response Cyborg's response was the same.
" I suppose the same way you exorcise it, a cross, some holly water,and a few verses from the good book… why have you found Jesus?"
At that Beast boy scoffed.
" and you say my jokes are bad?…."
With that the rest of the ride went smoothly as the core Titans said farewell to Hawk, Dove and Kid Flash as they headed inside the tower, getting ready for bed each Titan fell asleep except for Beast boy laying awake in his bed with the burning sensation still in his head, mouth and nose.
'this is getting ridiculous…. I wonder how Rachel's doing?'
Back in Raven's room said Titans finally managed to get a decent sleep or at least that what she thought as she began to hear faint voices, whispers really.
' defend yourself Raven…. defend yourself child….'
Not one to leave anything to chance Raven woke up as she thought on her next course of action. Her best bet was to get out her vanity mirror and take a trip inside her mind and as she looked into the mirror nothing happened, that genuinely startled Raven as she concentrated even harder until something did happen although that wasn't what she expected,swirls of wind and mist gathered within the mirror to form the image of Arella as the image spoke yet again.
'save yourself before it's too late…'
At that Raven looked away from the mirror as she thought to herself.
'save myself?…..from what?….. and from whom?…..Trigon?!'
Before she could continue her thoughts further she was snapped out of it by an unexpected guest.
"Raven?, is everything alright little one?"
Raven did not answer at first as she waited for a few minutes before answering.
"everything is fine….. go back to sleep it was just a weird dream is all….."
Angela did just that not bothering with prodding and pushing further, as she walked away Raven layed down back in her bed. Now with a slight suspicion that something is horribly wrong she couldn't even bother to close her eyes so instead she sought out Beast boy, knocking on his door he surprisingly opened the door quickly.
" couldn't sleep?…"
Beast boy at that gave her a look that said it all as she asked.
"mind if I come in?"
At that Beast boy stepped aside as Raven went inside as she looked around to see if she was being watched, apparently she wasn't. Once inside the room Beast boy offered for Raven/Rachel to lie down which she agreed to. An air of comfortable silence fell upon the two until Beast boy broke it gently.
"so to what do I owe the pleasure of your company?"
Raven gave a small sigh as she answered.
" I wish there wasn't a reason but…."
Beast boy at that took a wild guess.
"you suspect something's up with mother dearest."
At that Raven gave a small smile of a pleasant surprise as she said.
"thank goodness for a moment I thought I was going crazy."
At that Beast boy sighed in relief silently saying ' I was feeling the same' as Raven continued the conversation as follows.
" now that we both agree…. what should we do next?"
Beast boy at that looked at the clock in his room as it read 03:30 am and coupled with his eyelids getting awfully heavy settled with going back to sleep, climbing next to her he laid down on his mattress closing his eyes as he felt Raven's/Rachel's arms wrapping around his waist, finally both teens finding peace falling asleep right next to each other. At about 07:30 am the next day Raven woke up an gave Beast boy a kiss on his cheek as she was about to head back into her own room.
"don't leave me… please stay…"
That frightened Raven for some reason, she knew what Beast boy meant but there was something in the way he said that caused her concern.
" I'm not leaving…. I just don't want my mother to raise suspicions"
Hearing that Beast boy replied half asleep.
"that's easy….. tell her you're with child….."
At that Raven was tempted to smack him upside his head while he was a sleep but chose not to, he had a point after all.
' to distract her from me catching on to her….. I need to keep her busy, but how?'
With in her own mind 'knowledge', 'happiness', 'lust' and 'affection' chimed in unison.
' maybe Gar had the right idea all along'
With that Raven stopped dead in her tracks as she closed her eyes and concentrated.
' can we focus on something else other than having sex with Gar?'
At this point 'lust' whispered in Raven's ear.
' we suggested nothing of the sorts…..'
Feeling a deep blush creeping up on her face Raven hurried to her room, she opened slightly her window before crashing back onto her own bed. About two hours passed since and Beast boy was currently enjoying a bowl of cereal as Angela joined his company in the kitchen.
" say…. how often is my daughter sneaking into your room?"
At that Beast boy avoided doing a spit take but still bit down his tongue hard in surprise. Whimpering he tried to answer as best as he can ignoring the immense pain.
"what…. makes….. you think….. she does that?"
At that Angela quirked her eyebrow silently asking 'are you being serious right now?' as Beast boy tried to faint innocence trough his pain as Raven came by the kitchen.
" open your mouth."
Doing as she said, Raven came close to his ears as she whispered.
"act normally for now…."
As she said that Raven healed Beast boy's tongue as she allowed herself to talk a bit loudly.
" so….. what were you talking about?"
Angela answered innocently and sincerely.
" oh nothing much… just getting to know my son in law a bit better….."
Raven answered that remark with her own sincerity.
"and?…..what have you learned?"
At that Angela suppressed a smile and a giggle as she gave her reply.
"he's an awfully good conversationalist… now have fun you too… just not too much fun…"
At that Angela opted to leave, stating that she needs to meditate and catch some air before leaving the couple alone. Just as Angela got out of ear shot she whispered.
"that's definitely not my mother…. plus I see now why you've bit your tongue…."
At that Beast boy just said thanks before he asked.
"so what do you think she is?, an impostor?, a pawn being sent by Trigon?, or it really is her and she's possessed?"
At that Raven answered while sitting down.
" good question…. what are your instincts tell you?"
Beast boy at that answered as he continued eating his cereal.
"well…. every time she's in the room I start to feel sick like I'm being fed sulfur….. does that help?"
At that Raven gave a nod stating.
" yeah, a lot actually…. if what you say is accurate were dealing with a possession"
At that the room got suddenly quiet as Raven asked.
"are you gonna offer me some cereal or are you gonna sit there like a dummy?"
At that Beast boy slapped himself on his forehead as he got up and prepared a bowl for Raven/Rachel all the while without him noticing she smiled at him warmly. As both Raven and Beast boy tried enjoying breakfast the latter noticed that the former barely touched her food, a little worried and anxious he asked.
" say… what worries you?…. is it the thought your mom might be possessed?"
Raven sighed in disappointment as she answered.
" not really….. in my prime I would've detected it from a mile away… in my prime I could've saved her by now… look at me now, can't hold a fucking spoon without my hand trembling…"
At that Raven wanted to throw the bowl onto the wall but before she could do anything Beast boy got behind her holding her tight in a hug.
"Rachel…. stop it… this isn't you…. you're better than this… you're no quitter….. besides that's what he would want you to do…. don't give him the satisfaction."
At this point Raven allowed herself to relax a bit as she remarked.
" you've made your point…. don't rub it in…."
At this point Beast boy gave a sly grin.
"who me?…. no…never, now let's finish breakfast."
As Beast boy and Raven finished breakfast Angela locked herself in the guest room as she was now facing herself in front of the bathroom mirror trying to contact Trigon as his visage appeared instead of her reflection.
'speak briefly.'
With that 'Angela' did what she was told.
'they know.'
At that Trigon gave a quick reply.
'correction…. they suspect.'
At that 'Angela' looked a bit agitated as she asked.
'and?…..'
Sensing that Trigon took control of the situation.
' there is no and…. you are to resume your mission as planned…. break her to the point of despair so I may enter this accursed realm once and for all.'
With that Trigon dispersed as Angela was left motionless and speechless as she tried to collect her thoughts. Over the next few days Raven watched Angela like a hawk while the Titans were out fighting crime, she followed her mother around trying to figure out when will the charade will end and the mask will slip as Angela on her part tried to maintain a normal front as one could possibly have.
' I know you are not my mother….. identify yourself.'
At this 'Angela' did something very surprising, she broke down as the demon from within cracked.
'please have mercy on me….. I had no choice in the matter….. I was just a sloth of an oaf when Trigon pulled my essence into the human female…. I have no way out of this…'
Raven without fail answered the following.
'release my mother….. and in return I'll offer you protection from Trigon'
At this point before anyone could say anything else a puff of smoke appeared in the room, out of it came an average height and average built Englishman wearing a long light brown trench coat over a black tux and pants with a light red necktie, his face was squared but still possessed some pronounced features such as his chin and to cap things off his hair line was receding but still it was clear that the hair color matched the color of his coat. The man kept quiet for a few minutes as he finished a Silk Cut cigarette.
" I wouldn't do that if I were you…."
Before anyone could intervene the man seemingly separated the demonic entity from Angela's body, with no time to spare the stranger took control of the demon forcing it to break its own neck as the body hit the floor.
"well there love…. don't stand there like a common house plant…. help good ol' mommy over there."
At that Raven snapped out of her shock asking.
"let me guess…. this isn't a coincidence….. and you're not really here are you John Constantine?"
At that Constantine gave an amused smirk as he answered.
"right on both counts… I expected nothing more from the half demon Raven…"
Before Raven could say anything else Constantine disappeared the way he came in just as the Titans returned from an emergency.
" okay… what did we miss?"
Raven at this point pleaded from the Titans to refrain from asking questions till after they moved Angela Roth into the infirmary. Doing just that she confided with the Titans with all that happened.
" okay so this Constantine guy does a Copperfield act, saves your mom and leaves….. couldn't he take the dead demon with him?….. the place is gonna stink from dead demon meat…."
At that Cyborg reassured Beast boy.
" don't worry about it…. I'm taking care of it."
As the Titans left the infirmary Raven stopped Night-wing in particular saying.
"thanks…. for contacting him."
At that Night-wing smirked as he replied back.
" honestly I hoped he would show up in person but I'll let him know….. now rest up your mom is safe with us."
At that Raven nodded as she asked.
"may I rest with her for a bit….. I'd like to properly greet her when she wakes up."
At that Night-wing simply answered with.
" I don't see why not."
With that Night-wing left as Raven went to sit at her mother's side as she squeezed her hand tightly. A few minutes later Cyborg went to where the big scene happened only to discover that instead of a dead demon laying on the floor was a pile of ash to which he responded with.
" well…. better bring out the vacuum cleaner…"
As cyborg left the room he felt a slight chill going down his spine while in he meantime Angela woke up violently in the infirmary while Raven tried to hold her down while carefully using her powers to calm her.
"stay calm…. you're among friends…. you're among family…."
At that Angela Roth started to breathe deeply for a few minutes until she responded.
" I see…. you've received… my message."
To that comment Raven/Rachel responded with.
"well…. it was kind of hard to miss…"
At that the both of them allowed a small smile on their faces until Raven contacted Beast boy.
"Gar… do me a favor and bring some more towels…. food and water too…"
Beast boy or rather Gar responded right away while Angela gave her daughter an inquisitive and mostly curious look which made Raven self aware, at a rare lost for words she decided to show her the custom ring Gar had made on Tamaran as Raven finally found her voice.
"mom…. before you say anything…. at the moment I have a boyfriend… just a boyfriend."
At that Angela gave a sly grin that expressed a variety of emotions such as pride, fear and anxiety as she stated.
"just?!….. by the looks of things… it looks like he proposed."
At that Raven gave a big sigh as she answered.
"he did….. but I turned him down as gently as I could."
At that Angela gave a knowing look understanding perfectly why her daughter did what she did yet still she sensed regret in her voice so she asked.
"why do you feel guilty then?….."
Raven at that was caught by surprise as she took a moment to compose herself before answering.
"because….. I know him too well…. he had suffered many disappointments in his life… and it pains me to be yet another chapter of disappointment since I know he really loves me… and I love him…"
At that Angela reassured her that there was nothing to feel guilty about as she stroked her daughter's cheek right as Beast boy entered the room.
"oops… sorry didn't mean to interrupt so….. yeah I'll just leave these here."
With that he brought in all that Raven asked for and just as he was about to leave Angela asked bluntly.
"what's the deal with the green skin?"
Beast boy just grinned as Raven was silently begging him not to respond the way he was about to respond.
" I drank too much green tea."
At that Angela smirked for a bit as Raven rolled her eyes and as soon as he was gone Angela remarked.
"he's lucky he didn't drank too much Cola…"
With that Angela began laughing wholeheartedly as Raven just shook her head tending to her mother. As soon as Beast boy reached the living room he saw Cyborg carrying the vacuum cleaner looking like he came out straight out of Ghost busters, catching the look Beast boy gave Cyborg reacted with.
" whatever you're gonna say…. keep it to yourself…."
At that Beast boy smirked commenting.
"whatever you say Winston…."
At that Cyborg smacked himself, knowing he stepped into that one, as he went on about to discard the ash now filling the vacuum cleaner. Going outside he made a mental note as too how it was beautiful outside as it was mostly sunny and with no clouds heading their way.
' please…. don't let this day get ruined'
On the other side of town in a local cemetery, rain clouds were forming and within a matter of a few minutes rain started pouring in however it was no ordinary rain, it stopped as soon as it came, as soon as the rain stopped the earth began to rumble, it wasn't no earthquake, through the ground came bursting to life the corpses laying six feet under with their eyes sickening yellow, complimented by demonic features to scare anyone who stumbled accidentally on to the scene. Within the tombstones that remained standing and intact a couple of names stood out.
'Grant Wilson' , 'Tara Markov'
As the demonic zombies stumbled out of the graveyard all of them headed into one single direction….Titans tower. Since Angela regained consciousness almost a full hour passed with Beast boy stepping out for patrol duties with the rest of the Titans honing their skills preparing for whats to come next, that is until they heard Beast boy rushing into the training room wheezing and gasping for air.
"big… trouble….."
At that Night-wing and Cyborg intervened.
"take deep breaths and start again."
Doing just that Beast boy tried a second time.
" we…. got…. big trouble… heading this way"
With that he took yet another deep breath as he continued.
"zombies… demons…. demonic zombies…. wrecking havoc in the city"
At that Starfire spoke up.
" we all hear you… Titans together….."
With that every Titan minus Raven followed Starfire's and Night-wing's lead. As the Titans headed outside Beast boy stopped all of a sudden leaving the Titans confused for a bit so he clarified.
"sorry to do this but I'm staying behind to provide back up for Raven."
Being able to follow Beast boy's train of thoughts Night-wing replied.
"no need to…. that's solid thinking…. in fact Cyborg stay behind as backup…. Star contact Kid Flash…. send him our way as Wonder Girl and I keep these zombies at bay….."
At that everyone split up as Cyborg noted.
"tell the truth… you didn't want to go did ya?"
At that Beast boy answered in his usual manner, half jokingly.
" you know me better than that….. in fact you should have been worried… the black guy always bites it first"
At that Cyborg answered sarcastically.
" thanks for being restrained"
The sarcasm didn't escape Beast boy yet he played along anyway.
"don't mention it."
This time it was Cyborg's turn to roll his eyes while in the meantime Night-wing and the rest of the Titans rolled out to the last spot the demonic zombies were last spotted, within a few clicks west from the city. When the Titans arrived Night-wing performed a somersault off his motorcycle landing a solid kick into one of the zombies as he sent the creature flying a good ten feet. Looking around him he knew it wasn't gonna be this simple as he prepared himself for a war, pulling out his escrima sticks and a few bird-a-rangs just in case as Starfire swooped in launching a few star bolts before noticing something or rather someone.
"Night-wing I don't wish to be the barer of bad news but it looks Tara is among the undead….."
By this time Night-wing was neck deep in trying to fend of the undead horde as he replied with the following
"kid Flash….. you're needed right about now…."
At that Kid Flash ran in as fast as he could knocking the zombies back with a gust of wind on par with hurricanes as he finally faced Night-wing and Starfire.
"sorry for the delay…. traffic can you believe it?…. so was that what you had in mind"
At that Night-wing answered as follows.
"rocked it but it's not over yet….."
Right at this moment the demonic corpse formerly Known as Tara used her geomantic abilities to make the earth quake trying to trap the Titans in the ensuing chaos as Wonder Girl swooped in punching her square in the face with such force that her head came clean off of its shoulders.
"even in death she's a pain in the ass…"
At that Kid Flash snickered.
"understatement of the year….. now if our heads are screwed on straight we have a few zombies over here overdue for a dirt nap."
At that Night-wing rubbed his eyes together as Wonder Girl jokingly said.
" wow you have a knack for making friends."
At that Night-wing allowed himself a small grin as he was kicking zombie ass and taking names while Starfire kept on launching star bolts to try and thin out the horde.
"please don't remind me"
At this point Kid Flash pitched in.
"speaking of…. would someone remind me why Beast boy and Cyborg aren't here to kick some ass with us?"
To that Starfire and Night-wing answered in unison.
"they stayed behind to watch over the tower"
At that Kid Flash just gave a nod silently saying 'makes sense' before being sucker punched in the face by a zombie. Unlike the other zombies, this one was wearing what is essentially the remains of a uniform Night-wing knew all too well, the outfit comprised of mostly chain mail armor spreading across the legs, arms, crotch and abdomen while its chest, hands and feet where covered with light armor as the face was covered by a mask fashioned to look like an executioner mask.
"guys…. stay on high alert… The Ravager has made its return…."
At that everyone tensed up, remembering that the last time they encountered The Ravager they barely managed to survive let alone win, largely to Raven's involvement however a few seconds later all of the Titans including Night-wing reminded themselves that they came a long way since then.
" Titans….. let's make sure he's going back to sleep for good"
With that the Titans concentrated all of their attacks on Ravager which in turn, even as a demonic zombie, managed to avoid most of their attacks and as the Titans tried to pin it down for good a single shot was fired landing right between the eyes mass the zombie collapsed to the ground the Titans a bit surprised turned around to see Slade Wilson walking on by dressed in a sharp business suit with his trademark glass eye.
" do you expect a thank you?"
Wilson at that answered Night-wing.
"hardly….. I expect one thing from you… find who disturbed my son's rest and defeat him."
At that Night-wing nodded as he thought for a few moments before stating.
"Wilson….. the one who desecrated your son's body…. he's nothing like we faced before…. we could use your expertise if you're inclined to lend a helping hand."
At that Slade Wilson/Death-stroke stared Night-wing down as he answered.
"tempting…. still I'm retired."
At that Night-wing nodded in understanding as Slade Wilson slowly vanished from view as the knocked down zombies rose up for round 2 as the Titans continued fighting on. Back in Titans tower Cyborg did a security check before locking down the tower with the rest inside.
"gee…. you think this will hold?"
At that Cyborg answered Beast boy's remark nonchalantly.
" Beast boy, for as long as I know you I can safely say nothing can withstand your bullshit comments…. now with that said if you think you can manage outside on your own ….. go right ahead I ain't stopping ya."
Taking it as a cue to shut his trap Beast boy morphed into a Great Dane, roaming around the tower sniffing out for any demon's scent. As he searched from top to bottom, even sideways at some point, Beast boy eventually winded up near where Raven and Angela were staying at the moment as Beast boy morphed back into human form contacting Cyborg.
"everything's clear on my end how about you big man?"
Cyborg at first did not respond back as Beast boy took it for him being busy however a few minutes later Cyborg responded with the following.
"everything is where it should be, security system is operating with optimum efficiency."
As the transmission ended Beast boy felt no relief, in fact he felt tense as his hair stood in alarm as he went into the infirmary as Raven was helping Angela stand up.
" I'm sorry to barge in like this but you have to make a break for it now."
Sensing the alarm in his voice Raven asked.
" what's the matter Beast boy?"
At that Beast boy answered impatiently.
" I don't know for sure….. the Titans are out there fighting demon zombies while Cyborg's acting weird"
At that Raven felt a strange sensation like something is weighting down on her chest as she replied with.
"Beast boy go check on Cyborg….. in the meantime I'll make sure mom and me are safe."
With that Beast boy sprinted towards the living room as Raven conjured a portal directly into Azarath.
"you're not going with me are you?"
At that Raven answered with confidence and a touch of remorse.
" no… I have to stay here and finish this."
At that Angela instinctively wanted to protest but instead just breathed deeply as she asked.
" I assume you want me in Azarath for a reason?"
At that raven gave a slight nod as she answered.
" yes…. find a way to defeat Trigon… a weakness to exploit just in case my efforts aren't enough"
With that Angela bit farewell to Raven as she stepped through the portal saying.
'stay safe out there okay?"
At that Raven gave a small smirk as she tried to maintain the portal open without straining herself silently telling her mother 'I'll be okay'.
As one door closed another opened as Beast boy rushed inside the living room to find Cyborg mortally wounded but conscious enough to tend to his wounds as he at the moment was trying to patch an open wound as some blood and hydraulic fluid were leaking on the floor.
" Trigon… show yourself coward…"
Slightly bemused Trigon conjured himself in the room as a construct of solid matter and gas as he addressed Beast boy.
' I must say….. for a complete idiot and an utter dullard you catch on pretty quick.'
At that Beast boy quipped.
" well don't expect me to be flattered…. especially from someone who used the same insult twice basically"
At hearing that Trigon dropped all pretense as he approached Beast boy.
'do you remember how our last encounter went by?'
Beast boy knew what Trigon was trying to do and what likely was about to happen next so with that in mind he put on his best act as he saw in the corner of his eye that Cyborg was mending his white noise canon.
"well…. you forget one important difference Trigon…."
At that trigon smirked pointing out.
'if you refer to your Frankenstein creation of a friend than no…. both of you are not enough to defeat me….'
At that Beast boy listened in closely as he heard Raven's footsteps from beyond the living room entrance as he decided to laugh quietly to distract Trigon.
'you're laughing?…. why would you laugh at the face of your demise?'
Seeing Raven sneaking in and tending the best she could to Cyborg Beast boy stopped as he answered.
" I'm laughing because my goal was never to defeat you….. it was to stall for time until someone at your level would…"
At that Trigon, or at least the construct froze for just a few minutes, long enough for Raven to use her mantra and cast a spell that started to disintegrate the demonic construct however at that point the construct began to laugh.
"any spell she can cast I can counteract there….. she's at the end of her rope while I'm only getting stronger….."
With that the construct reintegrated itself as he made an attempt at Raven trying to grasp her with his claws however before he could reach Raven Beast boy got in its way delivering a punch straight to its face.
"OUCH….. what the hell are you made of…concrete… ooh that's gonna leave a mark…."
A mid the confusion Cyborg started blasting the construct as Raven got herself and Beast boy to a safe distance.
"wait here…. I'm going to finish this once and for all and rescue Cyborg"
At that Beast boy tried to get in her way.
"are you crazy?….. what the hell are you trying to do?"
Raven had anticipated this reaction so she gave him the following answer.
" believe me when I say that I'm scared of what's about to happen next….. but the thought of Trigon killing my family and loved ones scares me even more….."
With that Raven subdued Beast boy, making him collapse against the corridor's wall as she teleported towards the living room. Once there she quickly opened up a portal sending Cyborg straight to his quarters as she faced the demonic construct head on.
'so you show yourself at last daughter…..'
At that Raven betrayed no emotion when she replied.
"drop the pretense….. fathers at the very least are supposed to guide and teach their young…. I'm nothing but a vessel to you, an object to be used and discarded when it outlives its usefulness."
At that the demonic construct said nothing as it lunged on Raven trying to possess her as Raven did her best with her failing powers to defend herself and contain the creature. Realizing what she was doing he started to taunt her.
'resistance is futile….. I gave you your powers… and in the end I shall take them away.'
At that Raven smirked replying.
"who said anything about resistance?… I'm biding my time."
That left the construct confused as Raven began to chant her mantra quietly at first however at every passing chant her voice grew louder and louder as a portal opened up behind the demon. To the demon it did not matter, he was going to retrieve and defeat Raven no matter what.
'you think sending me away will solve your problems?… I will have you for my own…. I will conquer your universe…..'
At that it was Raven's time to smirk.
"that portal isn't meant for you…."
Saying that Raven rushed passed the demonic construct as it turned around to grab her only to be pushed back by a speeding Kid Flash as she kept on running towards the portal. As she crossed the portal with it closing behind her the construct tried desperately to hold itself together as it crumbled to dust as the gas faded into the air rapidly courtesy to the speedster vanishing all at once.
" and people say I'm full of hot air…"
At this point Beast boy came staggering in the room.
"Raven….. where is she?!"
At that Kid Flash quickly ran by to offer some support, emotional and literal.
" to be honest I'm not sure, one minute she was here the other she went through some portal."
At hearing that Beast boy surprised him by catching him by the helm of his costume.
" and you didn't do anything to stop her!?….. what the hell is wrong with you?"
At this moment it was Kid Flash's turn to surprise Beast boy.
"quite a lot I bet….. now shut up and listen….. Raven made a choice… I don't know if it was the right or wrong choice….. we just have to trust her…. so do me a favor pal and get a hold of yourself…"
At this point Night-wing , Starfire and Wonder Girl came in with Night-wing taking charge.
"kid Flash, make a quick run to Cyborg, make sure he's okay, Wonder Girl, Starfire search the tower, make sure those demon bastards didn't leave us a nasty surprise and Beast boy….. go on a quick patrol around the city… catch some fresh air while you're at it."
At that Beast boy silently left as he assesses the damage, taking a closer look at the pile of ash left behind.
' one thing is for sure… he didn't bother show himself in person… now what are you up to?'
On the ruins of a replica of a Roman Colosseum Trigon seethed in anger as he knew very well what his daughter did. Speaking of Raven, as she exited the portal she found herself right in the middle of a deserted and destroyed village, no doubt Trigon's handy work, as she searched for a place to hide knowing that his servants will most likely won't be far behind, looking and wondering around for a bit she eventually came across a building that 'escaped Trigon's wrath. Heading inside she immediately pulled out her communicator sending a brief message to Cyborg before closing the communicator the message read.
'taking the fight to him….. I trust you guys to find me if something goes wrong…. otherwise…. I'll be back as soon as I can.'
Back in Titans tower a few hours have already past as Cyborg finished repairing himself as he received Raven's message, quickly calling all of the other Titans they all met up in Cyborg's quarters.
" so what did it say?"
Cyborg at that replied Beast boy's outburst.
" relax you goof nothing happened to Raven so far…. we do need to find her though and we need a plan….."
At that Night-wing chimed in.
"first we need to pin point her location… I'll leave it to you Cyborg, the rest of you need to prepare while me and Starfire will make sure backup's in place… any other questions?"
With that everyone said no as they all went about like it was just another normal day as a thought was eating away at Beast boy's brain.
' what's her plan… please whatever it is…. don't do something you'll regret…'
Author's notes: so as you can see, John Constantine popped up for a quick hello so here is a little Trivia, originally he was modeled after the pop singer Sting, however I deliberately chose to model him after Phil Collins, yes that Phil Collins, since when I started to write these series of stories I was and am heavily influenced by the TV show Miami Vice, and since Phil Collins helped define that show back in the 80s I though it would be a nice gesture on my part.