So at the time of writing and uploading this chapter, there is no word as to when the final chapters of Land of the Lustrous will be released. It continues to get much more difficult when there's no word as to when the author will wrap all this up as the last chapter came out on Christmas in 2020. So as far as I'm concern, one of three things would happen. Either…
The author is taking her time and waiting for the right opportunity in releasing the final chapters.
Wishing to wait another year to relapse the rest of the story.
No uploading any chapters and leaving what happened to Phos and the other gems after the battle becoming the last chapter of the series and leaving quite a cliffhanger.
Either way, I think the reason why is because that the author wishes to find an ending to make everyone happy. But considering that how it left, I don't know if there will be an ending to satisfy the readers or if there will be a conclusion to begin with. So here's what I did.
On my Youtube channel, I posted a video regarding the fate of Land of the Lustrous. I also predict endings based on how it will go down. One being good, one being bad, one neutral, and an extra one. I would like to explain that here, but it will be a bit too much writing before the main chapter. So I'll provide you with a link below so you can click, or copy the address so you can see for yourself. Just a bit of heads up, you need to read the entire manga before you see this video. Trust me, since the start of this story, the spoilers keep on piling on and there will be a lot of baggage to unpack. Trust me, when you start from beginning to end, you will know where this story lead to that said cliffhanger.
www . youtube watch?v=tlQ9koIaJVo&t=1s
I just hope that we get the final chapters out soon. Cause considering the story they presented, I got the feeling that this wait will take 10,000 years at best.
Now let's look at what happened on the last chapter. Got only one review, but the hit counter was over 300. Holy shit. I never thought a strong amount of people would appreciate this story, let alone a single chapter. Could see a bright future for this story if I keep it going. And trust me, what I have for this next chapter will be something worth talking about.
Getting into the next episode, Slade and Poison are back and this time; they are stealing high tech chips for something important. Robin needs to know what they are planning. At the same time, a new villain comes into the fray. Who is he and why he has an interest in Slade? Let's read to find out.
Chapter Notes
Now this is going to be the first of four parts for this episode. As you know, I tend to use two and three parters for episodes as a means to shorten these chapter and trying not to keep them extremely long and impossible to read through. This one is going to be a four parter due to each chapter that has one action scene to the next. Trust me, I got fight scenes with Phosphophyllite to go against the new 'bad guy' in town. And there will more another multi part episode along the way as well as a good interaction with one of the Titans. Trust me, you know what I mean when you read it.
Disclaimer: I don't own the Teen Titans or Land of the Lustrous
Episode 10: Masks (Part 1)
Outside of Jump City, there's a secret research facility deep in the woods. It was a high tech building with the most advance security with a logo and sign over it that said, 'S.T.A.R. Labs'. At the outer walls, two security guards were walking through the woods and were looking for any suspicious activity. As they were walking, they could hear the security chief in helmets.
"Search unit 5, come in. Doing our hourly update on your rounds. You got anything on your end?"
One of them sighed and contacted back.
"Negative, sir. We got nothing on our end. Just a bunch of birds chirping and deer galloping by."
"Well, be on the look out. There's a reason why we have to keep watch on this facility. It is vital that no one comes in and take a valuable asset out of there."
"Copy that, we'll provide you with something when we see it."
Turning off his comm., he sighed and kept on walking.
"Crap… I hate these lookouts. I sign up for some action, not be some babysitter for of tech."
One of the guards soon asked him of what this facility is used for.
"Say… What exactly are we guarding? I know this is one of S.T.A.R. Labs top facilities, but what exactly is in there?"
The first guard groaned and explained to him what they are protecting.
"Not much to tell ya. However, I've been hearing of a bunch of highly classified chips used to activate some sort of prototype weapon. One of which is inside this facility. But that's all I know. We grunts don't really ask around."
The second guard soon asked what the weapon is.
"And what type of prototype weapon are we talking about?"
"The hell if I know! But it is funded by the Pentagon and three separate industries been working on it. What weapon, I don't have a clue. Just shut up and focus on any suspicious activity."
As they were searching, someone in the shadows were eyeing on them. Once they were away, the shadowed figure started to run through the trees and getting to the facility. The second guard felt something off the turned around to see what it was. But he didn't see anything and asked his comrade what happened.
"Hey! Did you see that?"
The guard was still walking away and didn't pay no mind.
"Saw what?"
"There was someone around us. I could've sworn felt someone brush by us."
The guard grunted and told him to keep moving.
"That's just the light breeze you're feeling. Now C'mon. We got plenty of ground to cover."
He continued to walk ahead and was leaving his partner behind. The second security guard sighed and turn back to catch up with him. Course, they didn't know that what passed them by is an intruder.
At the fencing area of the facility, the shadowed figure approached the gate and could see that it was too easy. Picking up a rock, the figure threw it and it hit the fence. That's when electricity started to dance around it and fried it completely. Knowing it is an electric fence, the shadow looked for something that could help the figure through that. That's when the shadow saw a breaker on a pole that's connected to the fence. Tightening the fist, a blade comes out of the wrist and the shadow approached the box. Cutting the lock with ease, the lock was opened and the panel was there. Pulling out a cable from the arm, the figure attached it to the port and an onboard computer opened up on the arm. Typing a few key codes, the shadow gained access and shut off the fence. Once the electric fence went offline, the figure returned to the fence and unsheathe the sword from the back, making a few quick slices. After a few short seconds, the part of the fence broke down and formed a hole for the figure to step on through. Once the person was in, the shadow approached the building and lifted the arm up, launching a grappling hook. The hook itself latched onto the top of the building and the shadow lifted upwards to the roof before anyone suspects a thing. Making it to the top, this figure looked around to find a way into the building itself. Scanning the area, the person has found a vent system that will lead to what is inside.
Meanwhile, inside S.T.A.R. labs, two guards were at a high-restricted doorway leading to a very sensitive item. One of the guards turned to the other and asked a simple question.
"So… Why are we guarding this door?"
The second guard turned to him and answered as much as he could.
"Because we're guarding some very sensitive item. One that would lead to total destruction if fallen to the wrong hands."
The first guard remained silent and then asked what they are protecting.
"And what item we're talking about."
The second guard shrugged his shoulder and tried to respond.
"Don't know. All I know that it's classified and keep my mouth shut."
As they went back to guarding, the two heard something through the vents and looked up to see what it is.
"Wait! Do you hear that?"
The second guard heard it and thought nothing of it.
"I do… Sounds like movements through the vents."
"Should we call it in?"
The guard waved it off and told him not to.
"Don't bother. My guess is that it could be some rats scurrying around. We really need to call an exterminator. I remember the last time we have one; it was chewing on the cables. Cut off the our internet access for weeks. You know how Dave is without his Youtube fix."
The other guard chuckled and remembered that.
"Oh yeah! I remember that! Did you see how red his face was when he couldn't access a certain video he wanted to see? Ha! Priceless!"
As they were talking, a vent opened up and something was dropped down. It soon landed on the floor and rolled to the guard's feet. The two looked down to it and wondered what it was.
"Huh? What was that?"
One of the guards soon bends down and picked up the object. Looking at it, he noticed that it looked like some kind of silver ball.
"Hmm… I don't know. But it looks like some kind of…"
Before he could figure out what it was, the ball exploded in a plum of smoke and blinded the two. The security guards were caught off guard as they were backing up and coughing heavily. As the smoke engulfed the area, the shadowed figure jumped out of the vent and went to the middle of the two, going straight to the attack. The two tried to fight back, but they were overwhelmed by the mysterious intruder. She sliced the weapons with her sword before giving the first one with a roundhouse kick and the turning to the second one to deliver a jab in the face. With both of them down, the stranger picked up one of them and approached the door. Next to it is a terminal that can only be unlocked with a handprint and eye scan. Knowing this, the figure knocked the helmet off his face and got him close to the terminal. The figure slammed the face to the panel and forcibly open his eye. The scanner soon activated and scanned the eye. Then with the other hand, the figure lifted the guard's hand up and slammed it on the hand scanner. That too was activated and scanned that hand as well. Once all of it was checked out, the terminal accepted access and opened the door for the intruder. Once it was opened, the shadowed figure tossed the guard away and looked at a huge dark room with the only light showing the object the two were protecting. That's what this person was looking for. Tossing the guard to the side, the figure made a slow walk to get to what is in the middle. Upon closer inspection, it turns out that be a red access chip meant for a secret military project. That is what this figure needs. Approaching the light, it turns out that the person trespassing into a secure research facility is none other than Poison, loyal apprentice of Slade and a supposed archenemy to Phosphophyllite. Looking at the item floating in mid air, she reached out her metal hand and was about to take it. But before she could do that, she soon noticed someone popping out from behind the floating chip. That someone is Robin as he gave the apprentice a stern warning.
Robin: "Tell Slade, if he wants this, he can come get it himself!"
Once he threatens her, he jumped off the ceiling and gave her a flying back kick to the chest plate. The apprentice felt that and landed on her back before rolling back up and flipping in reverse to recover and do a stance. But as she was ready for a fight, the lights were immediately turned on and she realized the gravity of the situation. For not only that she is facing Robin, she is also facing the rest of the team behind him, including Phosphophyllite. Phos had one golden hand on her hip and gave a sternful look on their face.
Phos: "Hey there, Poison… Long time no see… Finally recovered from the lightning blast, I could tell. Well this time, there won't be any more interruptions between us."
That's when Beast Boy butted in and told the apprentice what she's against.
Beast Boy: "Yeah! And it's six of us and one of you. So you better give up while you're ahead."
Poison heard that and couldn't help but to smirk at her odds. Almost immediately, a beam came up near Robin's feet and he quickly jumped back to avoid the heat. Looking up, they noticed the laser was cutting a circle in the ceiling. Once the circle was complete, it exploded and multiple henchmen came down wearing black and orange uniforms, minor armor plating, and masks concealing their faces. As they were falling, one of them pointed his customized gun and fired another beam at the Titans leader. He quickly jumped back again and flipped in the air to avoid the laser fire. The henchmen surrounded the group as Cy turned to the changeling with what he said.
Cyborg: "BB? When are you going to learn to keep your mouth shut?"
Beast Boy gave a nervous chuckle and wasn't expecting that at all.
Beast Boy: "Heh, heh… Guess it comes natural?"
Poison soon pointed to the group, signaling to get them. As if one cue, the henchmen started to charge towards them as Robin was ready for a fight.
Robin: "Teen Titans, Go!"
So the group charged in to take care of Slade's people. But for Phos, they charged straight towards Poison with their arm up, forming their sword. She swung down to go for the head, but the apprentice got her sword up and blocked it, letting sparks to pop out on impact. The two held their own as the gem wished to fight her so bad.
Phos: "Now… Let's pick up where we left off. Shall we?"
Poison couldn't agree more as she got her dagger out of her wrist and swung at their neck. Phos quickly pushed back and avoided that slit, landing on the ground and going into what appears to be Diamond's stance. Both of them looked at each other, before charging in and attacking each other with swings of their swords. But they weren't the only ones who were fighting. Cause around the two, the rest of the team were battling the soldiers Poison sent out.
For Robin, she was fighting one of the henchmen as he blocked his punch and avoided the sweep. Rolling back, he jumped to deliver a kick, but the soldier blocked it and took out his gun to fire another beam. Rob quickly jumped and flipped around to avoid the heat of the laser, getting close to him to deliver a vicious spinning roundhouse kick. The guy felt that impact and flew to the wall, crashing into it before skidding down to the floor.
With Starfire, she flew back and avoided a couple of laser fires. She soon flew upwards to avoid the firepower, but the henchman did the same and jumped up after her. Big mistake as she had her eyes glowing green and her hands projecting green orbs. Waving her arms around, she fired an even more powerful beam and pushed him back. He soon landed on the floor and rolled around for a bit. At the same time, another soldier was running towards her and jumped over his rolling comrade. Once he was high up, he got his gun out and swung it, using his beam as a slicer to cut a part of some gravity contraption to keep the chip from floating. That part was falling towards Star and she had little time to avoid it. Thankfully, Robin saw and the pushed her out of the way before it collided to the two. That object crashed on the floor and left a small plum of smoke open impact. Once it was clear, Robin was checking on Star to see if she's okay.
Robin: "Starfire! Are you all right?"
The Tamaranean groaned a little and looked to herself.
Starfire: "Of course… I am undamaged…"
Looking up, she gasped and pointed to what she saw.
Starfire: "Though I am afraid that it will not last long!"
Robin looked to what she was pointing at and saw all three of Slade's men pointing their guns at them. But before they could fire, a piece of computer equipment came out of nowhere and rammed them in the process, flattening them into a wall. On the other end, Cyborg wiped his hands clean and was the one who threw that piece of tech right at them.
Cyborg: "Amazing what you can do with computers these days."
He soon ran towards the next group and of henchmen and sends them flying with his inhuman strength. The hybrid then winded back and delivered a straight punch on the last guy he was facing, hitting his face and causing him to crash into the wall, leaving a serious impact.
As he was down, Raven floated backwards and was avoiding the laser beam. Jumping up in the air, the soldier swung his arm around as the gun he was holding was fully charged. With one quick swing, an energy wave came down and was reaching the telepath. She quickly crossed her arms and formed a barrier to protect herself. That energy slice hit the barrier and dissolved it completely. Yet Rae was unharmed and left behind a two cuts from the beam between her. She soon looked back at the damage and was shocked that she was able to get out of it without getting cut in half herself. But it wasn't over yet as the soldier landed on the ground and charged straight towards her. Feeling that, she turned and swipes her hand to form a black barrier. He hit the barrier and left some cracks from it. Backing up, she swiped left and right while the henchman kept on punching it. Knowing that he had enough, he delivered a low sweep and knocked the telepath's legs down. She tripped and falls, landing on her back. Feeling soar from the drop, she looked up to see him pointing his gun right at her. But before he could fire, a green goat rammed him and sent him toward the wall. Once he hit the wall, the goat speared him one more time, knocking him out completely. Raven managed to get up to see the end result. That's when she saw Beast Boy turning back into his human form and was aggressively cocky with a song.
Beast Boy: "You owe me big time! You owe me big-"
But his cockiness almost cost him as another one of Slade's goons came down and aimed him right at the back of his head. Quickly, Rae got her hands out of two pieces of computer equipment smashed the thug together and knocked him out. Beast Boy was caught by surprise and saw the henchman immediately passing out form the flattening. Seeing that, he looked back to see the telepath with her glowing black hands out. Putting her hands on her hips, she gave him a glare and wasn't amused.
Raven: "You were saying?"
BB laughed nervously and wanted to calm his nerves with a bit of a joke.
Beast Boy: "Call it even?"
Back to Phos and Poison, the two kept fighting as their swords clashed with each other and sent sparks flying. The two soon jumped back as they were pretty much even. Phos got her sword up and told her to stop.
Phos: "That's enough! Give it up, Poison! It's over! You can't beat me?"
Poison heard them and couldn't help but to smirk. Getting her mechanical arm up, she opened up her blaster and started to fire away. Seeing this, Phos panicked and jumped and flipped out of the way to avoid the projectiles. As they know that the energy would penetrate her alloy and rip them to shreds. Landing on the ground, they could see her arming her mini rocket and fired it right towards her. Quickly, she grabbed the rocket with her alloy and spins her body around to fling it back to her. Seeing the rocket going to reverse, she hit a button and an energy shield appeared that looks like that of a SWAT barrier and the rocket hit her, causing it to explode on impact. That left a plume of smoke and fire as Phos shielded themselves with her golden alloy to prevent further breakage. Removing their shielding, they look on and wondered if it was all over. But then, Poison came out of the fire with her sword out and flew towards them. The gem quickly reacts by bending down and avoiding the attack. But not by a sacrifice as small part of her head cut in the process. The apprentice landed on the ground with one knee and her sword positioned with a slice. Phos bended back up and turned to see her with her back turned. Peering up to her head, she traced her finger at the clean cut and was shocked completely. Looking to her with a scorn, they were surprised that the enemy would do that.
Phos: "Huh… Do you learned a few new tricks since our last encounter. Not too shabby. But I have improved as well. Here, let me give you a taste."
So they got one arm up and it turned into a huge mallet. With that ready, they launched themselves with their golden heels and were high in the air. Poison looked back to them as they came down with the hammer. Knowing this, she rolled out of the way and avoided the impact. Phos landed on the ground and left a huge impact on the floor. Knowing they missed, they turned to see her ready for another slice. But this time, the gem was prepared as they grabbed the sword and used the allow to engulf them arm. Poison saw this and struggled, trying to get out. Knowing that they got her, they wind the hammer back and were ready to deliver the final blow.
Phos: "My turn!"
They soon swung and were ready to finish it off. Poison immediately got her shielding up and the hammer connected to it. That impact caused her to fly as Phos let go of the sword-welding arm. However, that much air has led her right to the chip. The moment she hit the chip, it came out of the gravity force and was flying high in the air. Everyone saw that and knew that they need to secure it.
Robin: "The Chip!"
BB saw that and decided to grab it.
Beast Boy: "Mine!"
He ran up to it and jumped to get it. Turning into an anteater, he used his long tongue to grab it and landed on the ground. Skidding to the end of the wall, he thought he had it secured. But another henchman landed on his tongue and was in serious pain. That pain caused him to let go of the chip as the goon grabbed. He returned to the rest of them as two more lifted Poison from her last attack. Shaking from the impact, she looked to the one with the chip and knew that they had accomplished their work. Getting a smoke bomb from her utility belt, she threw it to the ground and a plum of smoke engulfed them. In a matter of moments, they were completely gone without a single trace. Phos saw that and was upset that she bolted.
Phos: "Hey! Where do you think you're going? Come back and fight, you coward!"
Course none of them paid no mind, as Beast Boy's tongue was hurting as he was crying from both the pain and taste.
Beast Boy: "Dat dasded do nasdy."
Course everyone was focusing on Poison and her group, as they need to go after them.
Robin: "They haven't gone far. This way!"
The group soon headed to the door Poison went through as Cy picked up BB during the run. As they were running through the facility, they noticed that they were in a multi intersection with multiple directions of where they group went.
Raven: "Great… Just what we need. Multiple paths and only one they got into."
Phos nodded and didn't like this at all.
Phos: "Then what are we going to do? Every time we wait, they will go farther away. I can't let Poison make a break for it. Not now."
Robin got the message too and told the gem to focus.
Robin: "Right now, we need to focus on finding them and retrieving the chip they stole. Split up! You find them, contact us on their whereabouts. Go, go, go!'
So the team started to split up in the middle of S.T.A.R. and begin their search. Phos went into one of the passages and was looking around the long metallic hallway. Running down it, they stopped and noticed more paths they have to take.
Phos: "Terrific… More paths that they must've take. This isn't going to get me everywhere."
Sighing, they knew that it was already starting to get hopeless.
Phos: "And to think, we were suppose to finish our bout we started back at the forest during that Thunder and Lightning dedocle. What am I to do?"
The gem sighed and wondered how to find Poison. But as they were looking, something caught their eyes. At the corner of one of the corridors, there was some type of silver puddle that was shining through the light. Curious, they approached it and bend down to get a closer look. The moment they starred at it, they knew what it was.
Phos: "Is that… Mercury…?"
They remembered a puddle that was close of the containment case of Cinn's arm and thought it was just a minor leak. Now they see the same puddle in a highly secured research facility. Putting the two together, they soon realize whom that mercury belongs to.
Phos: "Cinnabar…?"
Looking down to the hallway, they knew that their friend must've went down there. Curious, they walked down the hall to see if they can find Cinn. Walking down the long hall, they wondered where Cinnabar could be. That's when they saw another puddle on the floor. And then another one. And another one. And another. It is almost like Cinnabar is leaving a trail for Phos to find. After a long walk, they noticed one more puddle, this time in a metallic door that says, 'Storage'. Figuring they went in there, the gem took a deep breath and walked to the door. As it automatically opened to them, they entered what appears to be a huge warehouse with shelves filled with weapons, tools, and crates loaded with parts and supplies. Seeing how vast the place is, it will take Phos some time to find them. Luckily, the only thing they have is their voice and they call them out.
Phos: "Cinnabar? Are you in here? It's me. Phos. Your friend?"
They waited for a response from their friend, but didn't get anything. Not even a peep. Groaning, they know that Cinn was in the warehouse and proceeded to search for them.
Phos: "I know you're in here, Cinnabar. I followed your trail of Mercury to this place. Just say something to me."
Still nothing as they continued walking. As they searched, a shadow figure was hiding in the darkness, keeping watch on the gem and waiting for her move. So she darted to another place to keep her eyes on them. As the figure was keeping watch, Phos knew the reason behind the silent treatment and kept coaxing Cinnabar out of it.
Phos: "Look… If it's about me technically lying to you about finding a job that's better than the night watch, you should know that I still mean it. Sure, loosing my arms that contain those memories was bad, but no matter what, I can still keep a promise."
Walking around, Phos could tell that Cinnabar is stalling and get her isolation. That shadow figure though kept watching and tightening her fist, knowing they are trying to get someone out. Looking up, she could see a bunch of Slade's henchmen landing on the light fixtures, waiting for the moment to strike. The shadow gestured for them to wait until the gem is in the right position. Looking down, she could see them approaching the spot and was trying to get Cinnabar to them.
Phos: "I get it. You prefer isolation. I know that your Mercury can destroy everything just by a simple touch. And before you ask… Yes, that's your name of our silver poison. Turns it had been called that for a long time and the name were forgotten in our world. Crazy right?"
They chuckled for a bit before realizing it's not getting them anywhere. Course, they weren't expecting an ambush approaching as they were getting near the spot. As they were getting closer, the gem explained to their friend that everything will be all right.
Phos: "Listen, I know it's tough living in a new world with so many new things. Trust me, I myself felt a little bombarded with so much stuff this place has. I was on the verge of a complete breakdown at one point. But I met some people that helped me out through this messed up transition and I became friends with them. They were able help me adjust to this world and I got use to it all. They even promised that they'll find a way to bringing us back home. That's right, us. You and me. That's why I want to offer you a proposal. Come with me. When my friends find a way to get us back, we'll return home and I'll keep my promise in finding you something that only you can do. Please come back. I'm miss you and I worry about you."
As they were slowly walking, they went right to that spot. Seeing that, the shadow figure gestured them to an attack. That's when the goons jumped off the fixtures and headed down towards the gem. Phos noticed the shadows on the floor and the lighting swaying back and forth. Seeing that, they knew that they walked right into a trap. Quickly, they jumped ahead and rolled out of the way, letting the henchmen miss them quickly, rolling on the floor, they turned and looked at the group who have their guns out. All of them fired their lasers at the gem, hoping to hit them. The gem quickly got both arms out and merged them together, forming a shield to protect themselves. But the heat of the light was getting so intense that they could see holes piercing through and the heat beams starting to pop out of them. Seeing this, the gem was starting to get worried.
Phos: "Damn it! I don't have time for you guys!"
As they were trying to defend them, Poison could see them distracted and decided to strike now as they were preoccupied. So getting her sword out, she charged in a jump up to go for the rest of their head, just to cut down the middle. Phos felt that coming and melted their heels and lifted the rest of the gold up to create another barrier to block that sword strike. Peering their eyes right at the apprentice, they were steaming and didn't want to fight now.
Phos: "And I sure as Hell don't have the time for you either!"
On instinct, they pushed the wall of gold on both ends and pushed the henchmen and Apprentice back. All the goons got pushed hard and hit on the wall, leaving them completely unconscious. As for Poison, she was flying in the air, only to somersault and landed on the floor, skidding to a stop with one knee on the ground. Looking up, she starred a hole at the gem and was fuming. Phos looked back and started to put the two together. Between seeing Cinnabar's poison puddles and Poison's trap, it's no doubt something must've happened to their friend.
Phos: "You! What did you do to Cinnabar?! Answer me!"
Poison just smirk in her exposed lower portion of her face and remained completely silent. Instantly, she pointed her arm out and a blaster came out of it. Quickly, she fired multiple shots at them, wanting to break them apart. Phos saw that and made an immediate run to avoid the blaster fire, knowing that the energy breaches their alloy. Going through sections of shelves, they did their best getting out of there, as random objects got hit and toppled down the floor. They knew they need to get some higher ground as they launched off the floor with their heels and went on top of one of the storage shelves. Getting the high ground, they ran on top of it and did quick flips to dodge each shot. Seeing that, Poison has to bring them down fast and knows of a quick and shattering way. With her sword still in her hand, she ran up to the shelf that they were running on and slice a couple of metal bars holding it together. Phos felt that and the shelves started to fall with the contents dropping. Stretching out their arm, she latched on to the light fixture and jumped off the top before the shelves themselves fall to the ground. Swinging, they landed on the other top shelf and picked up multiple objects with their arms multiplying. They soon tossed them to the apprentice, hoping to stop their momentum. Poison quickly did some flips and bends, avoiding each projectile that the gem was throwing. With the sword in one hand and a small blade coming out of her mechanical arm, she went to cutting and chopped the metal holding the second set of shelves the gem was one. Phos saw it and was ready for her this time. Quickly jumping up, they grabbed a hold of one of the light fixtures and swung around it like that of a ride. Poison could see that and even the playing field by launching her grappling hook to latch on to the metal girdle on the ceiling. Launching herself, she got her sword in position and was ready to chop them in the air. Phos swung back down shifted their arm into their sword, swinging right back at her. Both blades clashed while they were in the air and neither of them were damaged. They soon swung in the opposite direction and came back down for another attack. Again, they swung and the blades clashed, yet they didn't knock each other down. They soon swung around like a bunch of pirates and went back at it again. Only this time, Poison had another trick up her sleeve. Putting her sword away, she dig into her utility belt and threw a bunch of shurikens engraved in S's right at them. The gem saw this and had to get to the defensive. Melting their sword, they formed a shield and deflected those projectiles. But that lead to Poison kicking the shield and pushing the gem off the light fixture. The gem crashed through a few shelves before coming down to the ground. Thankfully, they used the rest of the shielding to form a round golden ball to absorb the impact. Once they impacted the ground, they ball melted and reverted back to their arms as Phos was a little daze from the attack and a few cracks appeared on their skin.
Phos: "Ow… That had to hurt… I swear, Poison really wants me dead to rights."
Looking up, they could see Poison swinging to them and jumping off, heading to them with both hands on the sword's hilt. With eyes wide, the gem rolled out of the way and managed to avoid it and apprentice hit the spot and the sword penetrated the floor. Yet she missed them and turned to Phos with an intend to break them. Getting the sword out, she charged in and went right to the assault. With both arms out, they formed two swords and blocked every strike Poison gave them. Pushing her back, they went into a couple of slices of their own and she too blocks them as well. As they were cutting, all the metal support sticks were cut in the process and shelves started to fall around them. But both were focusing in destroying each other as they clashed their blades together and held on with the sparks flying. They were both face-to-face and focused on each other for a long time. Too focused as more shelves keep toppling down around them. Some of the shelves were heading towards them and they could see shadows of them getting close on top of the two. The both looked up and immediately separated and backed away. Once they got out, the shelves landed on top of the spot the two were on and left a plume of smoke in the end. When the smoke cleared Poison, looked around and could only see the aftermath of the fight, but there was no sign of Phos. There was some smoke leftover, but impossible to see around the destruction of the warehouse. But as she was looking around, she heard a familiar voice.
Phos: "Hey! Poison! Looking for me?"
The apprentice heard that and turned around. That's when she saw a shadowed shape of Phos, just standing there in the smoke. Seeing that, she pointed her arm to them and armed her blaster. She soon fired a shot and shoot a hole through Phos's head. Looking on, she thought that she got them. But the body exploded not in pieces, but in a blobby mess. Blinking, she realized she didn't get the gem, rather than a decoy. If that's true, than where is the real gem?
Phos: "Heh, heh… Made you look!"
Looking up, she saw Phos coming down to her with her heel reverting upwards as what they used to form that decoy. Using their other leg, they delivered a swift roundhouse kick to the helmet and knocked the apprentice off her feet. She flew off and landed on her back, skidding to a stop. Phos landed on the floor, and used the remainder of the heel to cushion the blow. Looking down at the apprentice, they could see her turning over and was out of it.
Phos: "Now that you're done fighting, I want answers. Where is Cinnabar? What have you done to them?"
Poison struggled as she crawled on he floor, hoping to make an escape. But then, she looked up and saw one of the weapons one of the goons was holding before the start of the fight. Seeing that, she smiled and reached for the weapon. But Phos didn't know it as they placed their hands on their hips and was starting to loose their patience.
Phos: "What? No answer? Argh… I'm really starting to hate your little silent treatment."
That's when they came up with an idea and walked to her, forming a mallet out of her hand.
Phos: "Maybe I should beat the answer right out of you. Than maybe you can talk."
The gem approached her and was about to pound her. But as they were about to attack, Poison rolled on her back and fired the blaster, having it to form slashes. Phos immediately backed up and managed to avoid the attack as the slashes missed them and hit the ceiling. The gem took a breather, as they were lucky they weren't in pieces. Looking to the apprentice, they sighed and didn't think her plan worked.
Phos: "That's it? That's your way to fight back? You missed."
Poison peered her eyes up and couldn't help but to smirk while silently chuckle. Phos raised an eyebrow and wondered what's so funny. That's when some specks of concrete came down their shoulders. Phos felt that and flicked it off, but another few specks landed on their other shoulder. Looking at it, they wondered why there was concrete dust coming down. It was then that more specks came down around them and they soon looked up to see what's going on. It was then that they saw cracks coming from the ceiling where the slices from that weapon Poison used hit it. Blinking they soon realized why Poison was laughing silently. That she didn't miss.
Phos: "Crap…"
In a matter of seconds, the ceiling came down above them and the debris was about to hit them. On immediate reaction, they got both arms out and formed an umbrella to cushion the blow. That's when the debris hit the gem and immediately buried them. Poison turned her head away and lifted her arm, bracing for the impact of the crash. Pretty soon, the smoke cleared and the warehouse is nothing more than war zone. When it was over, Poison looked at where Phos stood and saw a huge pile of concrete and twisted metal underneath the gem. Smiling, she kicked up and knew that she was the victor. But she know that the gem would've survived that and had to make an escape before they recover for another round. Looking to a wall, she used the blaster and used the welding laser to cut a circle on it. Once she did, she ran up to it and jumped kicked it, getting herself outside of the facility. She used that circle wall as a surfboard and went down the hill with perfect balance, stopping right at the bottom. Looking up to the facility, she gave a grin and walked away, getting back to her master of the news.
Inside the warehouse, the place was dead silent as the pile of debris was on top of Phos. Suddenly, there was movement coming from the debris and it was starting to break apart. In a matter of seconds, the debris exploded and there was a huge dome of gold expanding. And just like that, it soon collapses and broke apart, reforming into a pair of arms. That's when Phos stood there, completely mobile. However, their uniform was all in tatters and powder was off of parts of their body while cracks with gold platinum alloy was seeping out. Looking down, they knew that Poison pulled a fast one on them.
Phos: "Ow… That could've gone better…"
Looking around, they could tell that the apprentice has already left. Seeing the hole on the wall, they knew they got out through there and walked down to it. Jumping out of the hole, they used both their arm and heels to form a platform to comfort their fall. Landing back down to the ground, they looked around one more time and still couldn't find her. Knowing this, they sighed and admit they screwed up, big time.
Phos: "Great… She got away… How can I be so, distracted…"
Just as they had to figure out what they did wrong, they could hear a familiar voice from close by.
Raven: "Phos…?"
Hearing that, they turned around and saw the rest of the team approaching them, with the exception of Robin and Starfire. Seeing them, the gem dusted themselves up and act as if nothing has happened.
Phos: "Raven. Cyborg. Beast Boy. Nice to see you are all okay."
The three looked to them before looking at each other in confusion. That's when Cyborg asked if the gem is all right.
Cyborg: "Us, okay? Girl, what about you?! You look like you've been through the gem cutter. What happened?"
Phos heard him and gave a deep sigh. Knowing there's no way around this, they told the three what went down.
Phos: "I was facing Poison and… I think she knows where Cinnabar is."
The three heard them and was a bit surprised.
Beast Boy: "Wait… Cinnabar? You mean your friend? That same friend that has all that poisonous mercury in their body?"
The gem gave the changeling a deep glare and responded as kindly as possible.
Phos: "Yes… The very same one… And don't say it's poisonous. They don't have much of control over it. Anyways, I saw puddles of mercury on the floor and it lead me the storage warehouse. At first I thought that Cinnabar was there and I asked them to come. But Poison and her cronies trapped me. I fought as hard as I can but, as you can see, Poison gave me the slip. I don't know much but… I think this could have something to do with my friend."
The group heard that and was a bit shocked.
Cyborg: "Whoa, whoa, whoa… Back up. You're not saying that Cinnabar is somehow connected to Slade and his apprentice. Are you?"
Phos looked away and don't know if that's a possibility.
Phos: "I… I don't know… I need to get all the facts first and Poison… Well… She's not the conversational type."
Raven listened to them and knew that they needed help.
Raven: "Look, Phos. I know you are desperate in finding your friend. But if they are connected to our enemy, you need to be wary. If you do find the answers, there is a strong chance that you won't like the end result. Maybe if you talk to Robin, I'm sure he'll understand."
That's when Beast Boy looked around and realized that their leader is nowhere to be found.
Beast Boy: "Speaking of which… Where is he? I don't see him anywhere."
Just as he asked that, they all heard the sound of yelling coming from Robin. Looking up, they could see Robin holding on to one of Slade's henchmen as he had two grappling hooks out. One end connected to the goon's body, the other, around Starfire's leg. The minion was dropping before pulling up and dragging himself, Robin, and Starfire down the lake. Seeing it all go down, they knew that they found their leader.
Raven: "Does that answer your question?"
Witnessing that, they all have to check and see if they are all right.
Phos: "C'mon guys! We have two teammates that need to be checked on!'
Phos ran to the spot they stopped as the others followed suit. Once they reached the spot, they could see Robin close to Slade's henchman while Starfire was face first in the lake water near the shore. Raven and Cyborg soon headed down to where Star was and checked on her.
Cyborg: "Starfire! You okay, girl? Speak to us!"
The Tamaranean groaned and slowly got out of the water. When she did, she had a fish in her mouth and immediately spat it out in disgust.
Starfire: "I am… *cough* Well… Though, if this is what your delicacy called sushi tastes like, I am afraid I will pass."
Cy gave a bit of a chuckle as Raven raised an eyebrow.
Raven: "Uh… That's not how sushi works, Starfire."
As they were checking on her, Phos and Beast Boy headed to Robin to see if he's okay too.
Beast Boy: "Rob? Are you cool, dude. You look like you had quite a ride."
Robin groaned and got himself up. Dusting off the sand, he told them that he's okay.
Robin: "I'm fine."
Phos looked to him and could tell that he wasn't what he said.
Phos: "You sure about that? It doesn't look like you are all right."
The leader looked to the gem and could tell that they were in worse condition as him.
Robin: "Heh… You're one to talk. You look like you've been through the grinder. What happened?'
Phos groaned and answered the best way possible.
Phos: "Long story… We'll talk about it when we get back to the Tower."
Robin sighed and turned to see the minion started to recover, turning over his back and recovering. Seeing that, he decided to check on the him.
Robin: "Good. Cause I want some answers from one of Slade's goons."
He soon got up and approached the henchman trying to get up. He soon got to him and punted him in the helmet.
Robin: "Going somewhere?"
He soon went on top of him and pinned him, shaking him from his collar.
Robin: "Now start talking! Who's Slade? Why does he want this chip? And why are you working for…"
He soon got his hand to the minion's mask to see his face. But when he removed it, he didn't see an actual face. Instead, he could see machinery with a small TV screen. Robin looked on and was completely dumbfounded.
Robin: "…him?"
The rest of the team approached him and gathered around their leader. Looking at the screen face, Beast Boy rubbed the back of his head and joked around a little bit.
Beast Boy: "Heh, heh… Guess that answers your third question."
Looking at the screen, he soon went to static as it was turned on. When the screen was cleared, he could see the shadow of Slade looking right at the Titan leader.
Slade: "Excellent work, Robin."
Seeing that screen, he knew who he is and has a stern look on his face.
Robin: "Slade!"
Slade: "Really. I think your skills are improving."
But Robin had enough of his mind games and demanded what he's planning.
Robin: "No more games. What do you want?"
However, Slade wasn't listening and continued barrading him.
Slade: "But you do lack patience. If you're really so curious about my intentions, perhaps we should meet face-to-face."
Phos overheard that and told him that's not going to happen.
Phos: "Oh, so you now want to talk to us in person, but talking to us in that little screen of yours doesn't count? You know, there's a word back home that we call gems who don't stand their guard and fight. It's called cowardice."
Slade soon looked to the gem and gave a bit of a sigh.
Slade: "Aw, Phosphophyllite. So good to see you again. I can tell my apprentice had some fun with you. She does tend to get a little…playful at times."
The gem raised an eyebrow and wasn't buying it.
Phos: "Playful… That's what she liked to do with me, huh? You know, that is a bit funny considering she lured me with Cinnabar's mercury."
Slade remained silent and wondered where they were going with it.
Slade: "I'm sorry. What?"
Phos looked down to the screen and was getting serious with him.
Phos: "Cinnabar. My friend. The one gem I've been looking for since I came to this world. I haven't found them since that portal sucked us up and brought us here. And after all this time, the closest thing I ever got to them were the puddles of mercury back in that facility that lead me to your apprentice. I want to know if you and Poison had anything to do with them. Because if it's true, then you won't like me when I'm angry."
The villain looked to them and gave a sigh.
Slade: "Oh, Phos. You really are that gullible. With a hardness scale of 3.5 and multiple materials in your body, I'm surprised you mind doesn't catch up with the rest of you. After all, how could you search for someone so close to you, when you are looking right at them?"
The gem heard that and wondered what he meant by that. But before they could ask about that, Robin decided that he had enough and wanted to speak to him personally.
Robin: "I think I heard enough. Tell me where you're hiding, and I'll be there in a heartbeat!
Slade was getting annoyed and decided to end the conversation his way.
Slade: "Patience, Robin… Patience… We'll meet in person in time. Oh, and speaking of time."
Just then, a timer soon appeared on the screen with it counting down to ten seconds. Seeing that, the leader knew what it was and told Raven to get it out of here.
Robin: "Raven! Take it up to the air!"
The telepath immediately reacted by getting her arm out and her eyes glowing white. Just then, the drone was incased in dark energy and the drone started to fly up after Robin jumped off it. That detonated henchman flew high into the air and right to the sky as the timer reaches zero. In a matter of moments, the mechanical henchman exploded in the air and rain down pieces all around the forest. The group watched on and didn't think that this drone would be an actual bomb. So much so that Beast Boy try to lighten the situation, making a good joke about it.
Beast Boy: "Well, I'll give Slade this. At least he likes to go out with a bang."
But no one was laughing, not even Robin as he tightened his fist in aggravation. Starfire could see that and wanted to be sure if he's all right.
Starfire: "Robin?"
Rob soon relaxed and looked to the chip that he managed to take from the henchman before it exploded. Taking a deep sigh, he decided to call it a day and told everyone to head home.
Robin: "Let's take this chip back to S.T.A.R. Labs and return to the Tower. We're done here."
He soon walked away and wanted to let all this behind him. The others soon notice that and were worried about him.
Starfire: "Should we not intervene and help our leader? Robin has been getting…tense for the past week."
Cy shrugged his shoulders and told the Tamaranean that there's no control over it.
Cyborg: "I think that's impossible, Star. You know how he is. He focus on something, he sticks with it. Just like the person that taught him all he knows."
BB rolled his eyes around decided that they could all deserve a break.
Beast Boy: "Well, I don't know about you guys, but I need a big break after the fight that we had. Why don't we watch some flix and chill."
Cy chuckled and agreed with his friend.
Cyborg: "Sounds good to me. I'm beat as it is."
They all walked away and headed to their home. Raven soon stopped and turned around to see Phos, starring at the facility they were in and was lost in thought. Seeing that, she told them if they're coming.
Raven: "You coming, Phos."
The gem heard her and looked to her to tell her that they're staying.
Phos: "I'll catch up. I need to check to see if there are any pieces of me left in the facility. After the fight I went through with Poison, there's no telling if I lost pieces of me during the battle. Not to mention that good chunk at the top of my head at the vault."
They soon pointed to the clean cut from the diagonal side of their head as specks of gold was slowly seeping from their mint green color. Rae looked at them and knew what they meant. Since she knows their story and the fact that pieces of their body contains all of their memories, she understood loosing the pieces means loosing bits of themselves. So she let's them to their thing.
Raven: "Sure… I get it. Just don't take too long, all right."
She soon turned back and headed to the rest of the group. As soon as she left, Phos looked back up at the facility and while they wanted to gather any pieces that got chipped off during the fight, there was one thing that came into their mind.
Phos: "Cinnabar… I know you were here. And I know that you're close."
Later in the night, everyone was at Titans Tower and the team was thinking about what movie to watch. But in Phos's room, they were repairing themselves from the fight they had with Poison. They glued most of the pieces that were off their body and managed to get the chunk of the top of their head that was easily cut from the vault. Once they glued all the pieces together and covered the cracks with powder, they took one of the many uniforms from their closet to change clothes since the last one was in shreds. Fully clothed, they looked into the mirror to make sure that there is nothing left behind. Doing a few quick poses, they are glad that they still have the looks.
Phos: "Hmm… Not bad… Though it isn't easy to do any of this on my own. Not easy if you don't have Rutile patching and powdering you up and Beryl to fix you your own uniform and hairstyle. But at least I'm getting the hang of doing it myself."
They soon got a little depressed and gave a deep sigh, knowing what happened back at S.T.A.R. Labs.
Phos: "Though I was able to fend myself against Poison, I also discover that my friend could be close by."
Approaching the side of their bed, a hand scanner appeared on the wall and they placed their hand on it. Once the scan was completely, part of the wall opened up and a glass container came out that has Cinnabar's arm in it swimming in mercury. Doing the slow walk to the case, they traced their finger on the glass surface and was trying to process what happened at the facility.
Phos: "Cinnabar… They were in S.T.A.R. Labs. I know they were. But I wonder if Slade and Poison had anything to do with what happened to you."
Tightening their fist on the case, they know that they can't give up on their friend, not now, not ever.
Phos: "I promise you, Cinnabar, I will find you and we'll try our best to come back home together. Even it if means that Slade and Poison imprisoned you, I will rescue you. I promise."
Just then, they soon sighed and turned to the shelves filled with random gems.
Phos: "Hey! Don't give me that look guys. You know I care for Cinnabar as much as the next Gem. Sure, they are poisonous and destroy everything they touch, but they are very talented and smart to boot. Not to mention they save my sorry self many times. I think they deserve a chance."
Turning to the arm, they smiled and told it that it was all right.
Phos: "Don't listen to your peers. They don't see you the way I do. And once I find you and we both get back home, they'll give you a second chance. I'm sure of it."
Hearing the beep from their communicator, they took it out of their pocket and flipped it to see Raven's face on it.
Raven: "Hey Phos. You coming to the commons room? Cyborg and Beast Boy decided on a double feature, which means twice the pain for me. I'm hoping you be here to help lessen it."
Phos couldn't help but to chuckle at the thought. So they nodded and decided to head down there to save Rae's life of annoyance.
Phos: "Sure thing, Rae. Coming down right now."
Putting the communicator away, they looked to Cinn's arm and told it that they're leaving.
Phos: "Sorry, Cinn. Rae needs me for Cy's and BB's personal torture. You would've liked her. She is like you in a way. Cursed, isolated, thinking that she doesn't need anyone when deep down she does. You two would get along well. Anyways, I best be off. If I know Rae, she doesn't like to be waiting for me."
Putting their hand on the scanner, they closed the case and left their room. Walking down the hall, they thought some movies will calm them down after a vicious fight. But as they were rounding the corner, they started to hear two voices near Robin's room. One belonging to Starfire, the other, Robin.
Starfire: "Robin? I am wondering if you might wish to-"
Robin: "No. Thanks, but I need to figure out why Slade wanted that chip."
Hearing that, Phos stopped near the corner and slowly peered their ear to hear what the conversation was about.
Starfire: "Agreed. And perhaps, if you were to take a break, the answer would be easier to-"
Robin: "I can't. You almost got hurt. Next time, it could be worse. He's planning something. I have to find out what."
Starfire: "But, Robin, I am sure that-"
Phos soon heard the door closing, as he needed some isolation to think, followed by a sigh from the Tamaranean. Hearing the footsteps, they need to hide and fast. At the same time, Starfire headed down the direction Phos was and pass the T-junction. But Phos wasn't there at all. What happened was that the gem managed to get on and latch onto the ceiling with their golden arms and heels latching on to the cracks and venting. The moment she was gone, Phos detach themselves and landed on the floor with one knee and the alloy comforting the fall. When they got up, they looked to Robin's door and wondered what it was all about. Giving it has something to do with Slade, they decided to talk to him about it. Approaching his door, they knocked on it to wait for an answer. Finally, Robin voice came out of it and thought the knock belonged to Star.
Robin: "Look, Star. I know you are worried about me, but I'll be all right. Just get back to the others and-"
He opened the door to talk to Starfire. Only he was starring face to face with the gem and had that sternful look on their face. Crossing their arms, they weren't amused by what he did.
Phos: "Really, Robin? Alienating your friends when all they wanted is for you to relax? That's so not like you."
The leader blinked and was surprised of the gem in front of him.
Robin: "Phos!? This is quite a surprise. How long have you been listening to that."
The gem tilted their head and told him the truth.
Phos: "Right around the time when Starfire wanted to invite you to watch a double feature with the rest of us. You really shouldn't have declined the offer, you know."
Robin turned away and explained his reasons.
Robin: "Sorry. Didn't really mean to hurt Star's feelings. It's just that I've been busy-"
Phos: "Trying to figure out Slade's move?"
His eyes were wide and turned back to them in shock. Phos just smirk and knew they got him.
Phos: "Yeah… I figure much. Mind if I come in?"
Robin heard that and didn't expect them to connect the dots that quickly. With a sigh, he gestured to the gem to get in.
Robin: "Fine… Get in… But don't take too long, kay?"
Phos nodded and walked right in when Rob stepped aside. Once they were inside, they could tell that Robin was busy looking into Slade. All around the walls are newspaper clippings showing mostly Slade and on the table are random objects related to Slade, including the pieces of the exploding Slade drone that he recently collected. Looking at all of this, they whistled and were impressed by his work.
Phos: "You were really busy, huh Robin? Definite stalker vibes going on here."
Robin closed the door and turned to them, wondering what they want.
Robin: "What do you want? It's not like you are involved in my business."
Phos turned to him and told him that he was wrong.
Phos: "See, that's where I would disagree. See, while you want to know what Slade's plotting, I want to know about Poison."
Robin raised an eyebrow and knew what they meant.
Robin: "You mean, Slade's apprentice?"
Phos nodded and continued.
Phos: "Ever since Poison arrived, she'd been targeting me for no apparent reason. It's starting to become frustrating not knowing why she has a grudge against me. Not only that… But I think it might have something to do with Cinnabar in a way. While searching for Poison and her cronies, I've encountered what I've reason to believe puddles of mercury leading me to the facility's storage. No doubt, it has to be Cinnabar that left them behind. But when I got in there, Poison attacked me out of the blue and I had to fight for my life in there."
Hearing that, Robin remembered what happened after the fight.
Robin: "You mentioned that to Slade back outside S.T.A.R. Labs. You're not suggesting that Slade and Poison has something to do with you friend, do you?"
Approaching the table, they looked at the random objects on it and wasn't sure of that.
Phos: "It's possible… But I need to get all the facts first before jumping to conclusions. Either way, there is a chance that Cinnabar and Slade and his apprentice are connected in some way. Other than that, I don't know what else to do."
Robin gave it some thought and assured them that they'll figure it out.
Robin: "I'll try to look into it. If Cinnabar's in trouble, then there's no doubt that we need to stop Slade, for whatever he's planning. If only there is a way to get close to him and stop him from whatever he's planning."
He rubbed his chin and wondered what to do. Phos than came up with an idea based on their experience and turned to the leader to talk to him about it.
Phos: "You know… There could be a way to get close to Slade and get the answers we both need."
The leader looked to the gem and wondered what they meant.
Robin: "Really? What is it?"
Phos turned away for a moment and wondered if it would be a good idea to talk to him about it. Knowing that he needs to get out of this obsession, they decided to explain to him what happened back home.
Phos: "Back form where I was, before coming here, I started to suspect that Kongo, my sensei, is connected to the Lunarians since he called the big one that terrorized the school Shiro. The other gems knew that something wasn't right about him, but only batted an eye and moved on with their lives. Me? I wanted to find out what he's hiding, even if it means that in the end, I won't like it. I did everything necessary to understand the truth. Even wanted to have Cinnabar to help me with it, before… Well… All this happened."
Robin cocked his head to the side and just needed a plan and not a story.
Robin: "Okay… Is there a part of this story that will help me get close to Slade?"
Phos rolled their eyes around and got right to the point.
Phos: "Actually, there is. See, my idea would be to speak to the Lunarians to get my answer. Now it might sound crazy, as their kind never speaks to us. All they do is shatter us and take us to the moon for decorations. But when I encountered them the day before I came here, I could've sworn that one of them was saying something, and had their eyes showing signs of life with the pupils appearing. Wish I knew what that Lunarian said, but unfortunately, Cinnabar came and ruined it all. Point is, if you want to find out what Slade is doing, the best way is to come up to him and ask. I don't know how, but it's the best way to get your answers."
Robin listened to the gem's advice and gave it some thought.
Robin: "Hmm… Just go up and ask him? Seems like a risk… But that is something I should take. Thanks for the advice Phos. I'll see what I can do. Now please leave. I need to come up with a plan to speak to him personally."
Phos looked on and was curious what he's up to. But trusting him, they shrugged it off and decided to leave his room.
Phos: "Okay… I just hope you know what you're doing."
Walking to the door, they were about to leave. But before they could, they stopped and give Robin one more bit of advice they heard from Padparadscha.
Phos: "One more thing, Robin. If you are going to go down this path, let me give you a bit of advice. A pure, unbridled decision might leave its own wounds. And it might change things in ways you've never imagined. So make sure you keep your composure. And be mindful of your actions."
Hearing that, Robin was surprised that they would give him some words of wisdom. Then again, his mentor taught him everything he now knows, so he is used to it.
Robin: "I'll…keep that in mind."
Phos smiled and walked out of Rob's room. With the door closed, he turned to his communicator and contacted someone he was working with for sometime without the team knowing.
Robin: "It's me. I was wondering if my new suit is ready?" … "Good. I need you to add some adjustments to it. Going to need it for something special."
A day later, in an underground location with all the turning gears and mechanical machines, Poison is in the middle of the room with a stance ready to strike. As she was waiting, spotlights appeared showing wooden cutouts of the Titans. Seeing that, she took her sword out and moved quick, using quick slices on the cutouts. She soon charged to the last cutout representing Phos and was about to slice it as well. But she stopped and pointed her sword to the cardboard's face. As she stopped, the other cutouts started to slide down and they were split in two, all of which in different angles. Once they were cut down, she could hear the voice of her boss not far behind.
Slade: "Excellent work, apprentice. Your skills have been improving tremendously. Though I feel like you should've eliminated Phosphophyllite when you had a chance."
Poison unsheathe her sword and turned to him, giving a silent but understandable stare. Looking back at the cut out Titans, Slade knew why she cut those cutouts and not Phos.
Slade: "I understand why you want to spare that Titan. You want them to suffer before destroy them. I know your history them, I know you want to break them from the inside. However, you need to keep your emotions in check. That was what happened when you failed on your mission in S.T.A.R. Labs."
Poison soon turned away and remained silent from the last mission. Slade could see the guilt and placed his hand on her shoulder, assuring her and she did nothing wrong.
Slade: "Don't feel pity, Poison. That's an emotion you must remove from your mind. The Titans were waiting for you and they nearly had you. Do not fret… We will get our hands on that chip along with the other two another time. Until then, training and preparations must be needed if you can succeed in my plans."
Just as he said that, he heard a beep coming from his thrown. Looking up to it, he wondered who was calling him.
Slade: "Odd… Who would be calling me?"
He soon walked away from his apprentice and check who was speaking to him. Poison was curious too and followed as well. When they both made it to the thrones, Slade hit the button and turned to the many screens that were in front of him. They all went static for a brief moment until a shadowed face appeared on the screen followed by a distorted teen voice on the speaker.
?: "So… You must be Slade. I've heard a lot of things about you. It's quite an honor to meet with you."
Slade looked on and was still confused about why this mysterious figure was calling him.
Slade: "Wish I could say the same for you. Who are you, and how did you get this feed."
?: "Doesn't matter. What matters is how I am going to help you."
Cocking his head to the side, he wondered what type of help he is suggesting.
Slade: "Help? What kind of help?"
?: "Rumor has it, that you're interested in a certain chip"
Slade: "I'm interested in many things. So…are you proposing an offer, or a gift."
?: "A partnership. I give you what you need, you cut me in on your plans."
That got his attention, as Slade seems intrigued by this.
Slade: "Partnership? My, my, we are ambitious, but an alliance cannot be forged with any chip. If you're going to win my trust, I'll require three special chips. All of who belonging to three corporations. The first one belonged to S.T.A.R. Labs. With the facility outside of the city compromised, they moved it to a much more secure location in the city. You take that chip; I'll provide you with the locations of the next one. Deal?"
The figure was silent, as he didn't think he would go so far as to provide little information. But he has to go with it and responded in kindly.
?: "Deal. But you better keep your promise."
Slade chuckled and told him that he will do what he will do.
Slade: "I always keep my promises Mr… Hmm… I'm sorry, but I got the feeling that you haven't introduced yourself to me yet. You are…?"
That's when the shadow walked forward and revealed himself. While not having an actual face, he had a mask on that resembled a Punisher like skull and a red X on his forehead with one of the slashes going down his right eye. It was then that he introduced himself.
"Call me X… Red X."
That is where I will leave this episode here. I think this is a strong start for a first parter and the fight between Poison and Phos was intense. This will pave the way to much more tougher and harder fights that will toughen Phos up while getting closer to the big reveal. But that's for another time. For now, stay tune for the next chapter as the Titans face the mysterious Red X and a returning character I made. Trust me, you will be surprise in what I have in store for you. Please Review. #WherearetheGoodCartoons?