Titans Tower, 7:40 AM
As the sun rose over the Jump City skyline, there was one figure who had been up for quite some time.
The sun's appearance signaled that he could finally initiate his mission for today. The Teen Titans had no idea what they were in for.
Silently creeping down to the gymnasium, the lone figure began prepping for the horrors he would inflict upon the Titans today.
Once he was finished, he went to the main level and scanned the walls until he found the button he was looking for.
With a devilish smirk, he smashed it with sadistic glee, excited for the chaos that would soon begin.
….
Garfield Logan was a young man of simple tastes. He loved comics, video games, nature, things like that. But there was one thing he valued above all: sleep.
Being a Doom Patrol member meant he only had fleeting moments with his mistress. But becoming a Teen Titan meant that was all about to change.
RED ALERT! RED ALERT! RED ALERT!
Or not, he thought as he jolted up blearily in his bed.
For a brief moment, he forgot where he was, the nigh-empty green room foreign to him before he realized. He'd only just moved in here yesterday, still getting adjusted to his new home that was apparently under attack.
Rolling clumsily out of bed, Garfield dashed over to his closet and fumbled to put on his costume before awkwardly stumbling into the hallway and nearly bowling over a clearly irritated Raven who looked even grumpier than usual.
"Sorry." He apologized, raising his voice to be heard over the noise.
She offered no response, merely grunting, before floating down the hall and leaving him to follow her.
They warily entered the Ops room to find a clearly pissed off Cyborg glaring down at their resident Boy Wonder as they engaged in a heated conversation.
"What's going on?!" Garfield called out, interrupting their argument.
"Shorty here decided we should have 'training' at 7:45 in the morning." Victor grumbled, ignoring Robin's scowl at the nickname.
"You could've given us a heads-up." Garfield frowned.
"If someone actually broke in here, they wouldn't give us one." Robin countered. "You can't deny we're a target. Five kids in a giant T in the middle of the ocean isn't exactly subtle."
"Neither is wearing red, green, and yellow tights." Raven interjected, causing Gar and Victor to guffaw while Robin glowered.
"I have everything set up downstairs." He said, choosing to ignore her comment. "We're just waiting for Starfire."
On cue, an inhuman roar sounded out through the Tower, nearly drowning out the alarm, before the Tamaranian princess burst into the room, starbolts blazing.
"WHERE IS THE INTRUDER?!" She shouted, head on a swivel.
Robin quickly turned off the alarm while Raven and Cyborg backed away slowly. "There isn't one, Starfire." He promised, hands raised in a placating gesture. "It was just a test."
"Oh." Blushing in embarrassment, she powered down and floated to the floor. "Forgive me, friends. I was out on a morning flight when I heard the alarm. I am pleased to see you all are all right."
"I think I need a new pair of pants." Garfield murmured, heart still racing.
"No problem, Star." Robin assured. Addressing them all, he announced, "Let's get started."
….
The Titans Tower gymnasium was a wide-open space with plenty of equipment for a young hero's needs. Robin was directing traffic as he set his friends to various tasks. Currently, he was having Garfield run laps around the gym in cheetah form, putting hurdles in his path to make it more exciting.
"C'mon, Beast Boy! One more lap!" Robin urged, clapping his hands in encouragement.
Morphing out of his cheetah form, Garfield came up panting, hands on his knees. "You said that three laps ago."
"Keep pushing your limits. You keep going until you can't."
"I said I can't nine laps ago." He replied, collapsing on his stomach.
"You can't quit now." Robin urged. "I still have an obstacle course and a maze for you to do."
"An obstacle course and a maze?! It's not even 9:00!"
"The earlier we do this, the better. What else do you have to do?"
"Go back to bed." Gar muttered.
"You may as well get used to the routine. We work at this until we get it right."
"Work at what?" Victor called out from across the gym, unceremoniously dropping the weights Robin had been making him lift. "Pointless tasks you give us?"
"I'm trying to test you guys' abilities. As teammates, we have to know each other's strengths and weaknesses."
"So running through a maze is supposed to make me stronger?" Garfield asked skeptically.
"Just as sure as lifting multiple crates at once will make me a powerhouse." Raven put in sardonically.
Robin merely rolled his eyes in irritation. "Why can't you all just keep focused like Starfire?"
The girl in question was currently firing her starbolts at bullseye's with pinpoint accuracy. Her focus was laser-sharp and she didn't even appear to be listening to their conversation.
"At least Starfire has something mildly fun to do." Garfield huffed.
"Training isn't supposed to be fun." Robin stressed. "But if you're not having enough fun, why don't you try going a few rounds with me?"
"Um…you sure that's a good idea?"
"Why not?" Robin challenged. "If you don't need the training, then I'm sure you can take me on."
Beast Boy awkwardly turned away, wordlessly declining his challenge.
"Anybody else?" Robin asked, pointedly looking at Cyborg.
Cyborg opened his mouth to speak before someone else beat him to the punch.
"I will."
Everyone turned in surprise to find Starfire walking in their direction.
"This won't last long." Raven stated matter-of-factly.
"I will not use my powers and I will do my best to hold back my strength. This will be a test of skill, rather than strength." Starfire declared.
"You don't have to do this, Starfire." Robin promised.
"What better way is there to train?" Starfire pressed, getting into a fighting stance.
The others backed away, curious as to how this would go.
Seeing that he was cornered, Robin unclipped his belt and tossed it away, wanting to keep this fight fair.
Once she saw he was ready, Starfire lunged. She'd learned from their previous encounter that he preferred to avoid and evade. The sooner she pinned him down, the better.
To her surprise, Robin dove down and slid between her legs before shoving her from behind.
"Get him, Star!" Garfield encouraged.
In response to his encouragement, Starfire lashed out with an overhead kick that Robin ducked easily due to the height difference. Grabbing her leg, he swung her behind him where she came up in a roll.
Charging forward, she finally corralled him in a bear-hug. He wriggled helplessly, mildly embarrassed at how easily she had captured him along with the proximity of their bodies.
"Do you yield, Robin?" The princess asked, her hold slackening a little.
"No." He answered defiantly before lifting his legs to her stomach and pushing off.
She stumbled back as her hold was broken while Robin landed a perfect ten off his backflip.
Finally going on the attack himself, Robin began delivering body shots to Koriand'r torso before finishing his assault with an uppercut.
Her head turned sharply and he feared he had gone too far. "Oh man, I'm sorry."
His answer was a backhand so swift he didn't even see the motion. He crumpled, rubbing his cheek as Cyborg whistled, "Daaaaamn."
"Don't be." Starfire replied with a cheeky grin.
Enraged and annoyed, Robin rose up to his feet, roaring as he streaked forward with a punch ready.
Prepared for it, Starfire grabbed his hand, stopping his fist cold.
Taking advantage of his shock, she punched his arm inward before turning him around to apply a reverse chokehold, rendering him immobile.
He growled and fought like a wildcat but try as he might, he couldn't shake free.
Eventually, he stopped and lowered his head in shame, indicating his surrender.
Gently releasing him, Starfire respectfully added, "Well-fought, Robin."
"You, too." He begrudgingly acknowledged.
Their eyes locked for a moment as they caught their breath. It appeared she could sense his shame and self-loathing and was silently trying to console him but he wouldn't accept it.
She reached out to touch his shoulder when a gurgle resounded throughout the gym.
All eyes turned to the resident changeling. "Um…anybody else hungry?"
"Thought you'd never ask." Cyborg chimed in. "Breakfast is on me, ya'll."
…
Soon enough, the delicious smells of breakfast were wafting throughout Titans Tower. Raven was reading a book at the table, her eyebrow twitching whenever Garfield would laugh obnoxiously loud at something on the TV, while Cyborg was trying to explain to an enthralled Starfire the origin of bacon and eggs.
Meanwhile, Robin sulked in the corner, looking but not really seeing the document on his tablet. He couldn't muster up the courage to look anyone in the eye, least of all Starfire. He'd been disappointed with the training session in general but there was no one's performance he was more dissatisfied with than his own. If they were this disorganized in practice, how were they supposed to measure up out in the field?
"Breakfast is served, ya'll!" Cyborg proclaimed proudly.
Robin simply looked up, watching Raven float over as Beast Boy scrambled over as if the food was going to run away.
Curiously, the changeling slowed up as he eyed the bacon and eggs. He timidly began to pick at a biscuit before taking a handful and shoveling them down his gullet, spilling crumbs everywhere.
Robin turned his attention back to his document, mirroring Raven's look of disgust.
"So I figured I would give you guys a tour around town today." Victor announced, as he made himself a plate. "If we're gonna protect this place, I think we should at least know where we're going."
"I'll pass." Robin interjected, not even looking up from his tablet. "Already memorized the layout."
"Aside from Mr. Lonely, is everybody else in?" Victor addressed the others.
"I'm down." Garfield said excitedly.
"I am most intrigued by what your world has to offer. I would be glad to accompany you." Starfire put in.
"Raven?" Victor asked.
"Sure, why not?" She shrugged passively.
"Great." Victor smiled. "It's settled. Let's be ready to go in ten."
…..
A quick trip across the bay landed the Titans into downtown Jump City. The town had been made aware of the Teen Titans' presence but even so they got a lot of odd looks and double takes. They definitely had to be the weirdest group this place had ever seen.
Despite it all, Victor valiantly pressed on and pretended not to notice as he stopped in front of a clothing shop.
"I figure you guys probably wanna get some casual clothes instead of wearing the same uniforms every day." He said, holding the door open for the others to go inside.
Raven gave the place a once-over, not finding anything that appealed to her. She'd worn practically the same attire her whole life and wasn't looking for a change.
Garfield trudged along idly before his attention was grabbed by a sweet-looking Batman shirt.
"Awesome!" He cried in glee. "They have a 2 for 1 special with Superman!"
Delighted, the jade-skinned boy got lost in a sea of pop culture while, on the other side of the store, Victor was attempting to explain to Starfire the importance of socks.
"Victor, I do not understand. I thought I already had the footwear."
"Yeah, but socks kinda help cover up the smell of feet." He patiently explained.
Hurt, the girl inquired, "You are saying my feet smell bad?"
"No, no, no. Not that I can smell your feet. Which is a good thing." He quickly assured her. "But socks also help prevent bacteria and stuff from forming."
"Is this common on your planet?" She asked worriedly.
"No, because we wear socks."
"I see. Tamaranian foot hygiene is impeccable. Our footwear keeps our feet cool and not smelly. But I shall follow your customs and purchase the socks."
"Thank you."
"You are quite welcome. Shall I buy ones with the puppies or the kitties?"
"Whatever floats your boat, Star."
"Please, where is my boat that you speak of?"
"It's just an expression."
"I cannot understand why humans are not more direct about their meaning."
"Me neither, girl. Me neither."
Behind them, two blondes giggled at the Tamaranian's cluelessness, whispering to each other as they fruitlessly tried to hide their snickers.
Gritting her teeth, the princess began to move in their direction before Victor laid a calm hand on her shoulder. "They ain't worth it, Star. Trust me."
Her shoulders slumped in resignation as she studied the floor in shame.
"Man, do I love these Titan cards!" Garfield exclaimed as he came over to them, referring to the credit cards the city had granted them. "What's going on over here?"
"Nothin'." Victor told him, with a wave of his hand. "What'd you end up getting?"
Setting down his bags, he opened them to reveal his haul. "Let's see…I got two Batman shirts, Superman, Flash, GL and…these beauties."
Victor curled his lip at the twin green monstrosities inside the box. "Those are the most hideous looking green kicks I've ever seen, man."
"You're just jealous 'cause you ain't cop 'em first, dude."
"Uh-huh." Vic rolled his eyes.
"How soon can we get out of here?" Raven asked petulantly as she floated over.
"You don't want anything?" Victor asked in surprise.
"I'll stick with what I have."
Shrugging, Victor simply said, "Have it your way. There's no sense in me getting anything so it's down to you, Star. See anything you like?"
…..
It had taken some coaxing but eventually Starfire had found clothes she deemed suitable. They had discovered she hated wearing things that didn't expose her arms or legs, citing the reason as they 'tampered with sunlight absorption.' Thus, sweaters, jeans, and closed-toe shoes were a no-no for her. She'd gravitated towards shorts and bikinis and was convinced to at least buy some crop tops and t-shirts along with socks adorned with both puppies and kitties.
As they exited, arms full of what were mostly Starfire's bags, Garfield couldn't help but ask, "Um, Cy? How are we gonna carry all this stuff back to the Tower?"
"We're not." Victor smiled, nodding towards a car parked on the street.
"Thank God." Silas Stone said from the driver's seat. "The meter almost ran out."
"Yeah, yeah." Victor grinned back. Turning back to the others, he explained, "I called Dad to chauffeur us around town today."
Once they had packed their haul into the trunk, Silas pulled off with Victor in the front seat and Starfire sitting as a buffer between Raven and Beast Boy in the backseat.
"So, Vic…" Garfield spoke up to break the silence. "Do you drive?"
Unseen to his friends, Victor blanched briefly before answering, "Maybe if the old man would let me drive his car."
He quickly sent his father a silent look of pleading and the doctor took the hint. "What can I say? Cecile here is my baby."
Victor breathed a sigh of relief before changing the topic. "So, Raven, how do you feel about hitting the bookstore next?"
"I'm listening."
…..
Soon enough, the Titans made it to the bookstore with Silas in tow.
Almost against her will, Raven eagerly floated through the aisles, scrutinizing everything in sight until the horror section finally grabbed her attention. She grabbed a handful of novels and plopped down into a beanbag chair, looking as if she would stay for hours as she rooted through the pages reverently.
Garfield glanced around, bored, before the comics section drew him in. Victor and Silas perused for mechanics manuals as Starfire went to picture books and almanacs.
"So how are they adjusting?" Silas asked quietly.
"As well as they can, I guess." Victor shrugged. "Might be a little easier if Robin wasn't being such a slave driver."
"Well, he is a pretty young kid." Silas said thoughtfully. "From my interactions with the boy, it's obvious he's desperate to prove himself. He's got a lot on his shoulders. I'm not saying that excuses everything he does but try to see things from his perspective."
"Yeah, I guess I never thought of it like that." Victor conceded begrudgingly.
Eyeing the book Victor had been browsing, his father lifted an eyebrow. "When did you become interested in space travel?"
"Since I became roommates with an alien."
"Couldn't you just ask the Justice League?"
"Robin won't let us talk to them. Trust me, Gar's asked him enough times. Besides…I kinda wanna figure out the inner workings of this myself." Grabbing some more books off the shelf, he continued, "I've been thinking about making a submarine too. We live on the water so why not? Or maybe a jet or something?"
"You want to build all that but no car?"
Victor's expression fell. "I'm not ready, Dad. You know that."
"Yeah." Silas said, laying a comforting hand on his boy's shoulder. "I know. But when you are, I'll lend you Cecile anytime you need her."
"Like I wanna drive that old piece of junk?"
"Hey, that piece of junk has gotten us from Point A to Point B since you were in diapers. Don't be too hard on her." Silas smirked.
Victor laughed and shook his head. "Mom was always pushing you to trade up."
At the mention of his wife, Silas sobered up. "Probably one of the many things I should have listened to her about."
The two men fell into an awkward silence before Victor spotted Raven floating towards the checkout counter with a mountain of books wrapped in dark energy trailing behind her.
Jogging over, Victor tentatively spoke up once she had completed her purchase. "Uh, Raven? I don't think we can fit all of that into the car."
"Not a problem." Closing her eyes and taking a breath, she murmured, "Azarath Metrion Zinthos."
A portal of black energy opened, scaring the people in the store as the bookstack was encased in dark energy and deposited inside.
"Where did they all go?" Garfield asked, once it closed.
"Straight to my room." Raven said.
"Neat." Garfield's face brightened as if he had had a brilliant idea. "Think you could do that for my stuff?"
"No." She returned flatly.
Garfield frowned. "You're no fun. Speaking of fun, please tell me we're hitting a game store next?"
…..
Finally, Robin thought, as he heard the proximity alert that told him that the others had finally made it back.
Standing up and cracking his back, Robin exited his office to greet them in the main room.
He wasn't very happy with what he saw.
"What is that?" He asked angrily, curling his lip at the icon adorned across Beast Boy's chest.
Tugging at the front a little, Garfield shook it for emphasis. "Batman's symbol. Duh."
"I know what it is." Robin snapped. "Why do you have it?"
"Because Batman's awesome? What's the problem, dude?"
"There isn't one, B." Cyborg affirmed with a clap on his shoulder. Turning his gaze to Robin, he said, "Bird Brain here is just sensitive."
Robin merely huffed as the others set down their bags. Something in Garfield's caught his attention and he came closer, making Gar tense up and Victor give him a look of warning.
Squinting, he finally asked, "Is that Mega Monkeys 3?"
"Yeah!" Garfield relaxed. "Wanna play?"
"Well…I have been at work all morning. I guess a couple rounds wouldn't kill me."
"Sweet!"
The boys went to the TV to set it up while Raven attempted to retreat to her room before Starfire intercepted her.
"Friend Raven! Would you care to watch as I try on the apparel I purchased today?"
"Um…" Raven winced apologetically. "Not really. If you'll excuse me, I have a couple dozen novels calling my name."
With that, she swiftly floated through the double doors to her quarters leaving her Tamaranean teammate to sigh dejectedly.
Drifting over to the couch where the boys were, she asked, "What are you doing?"
"Trying to get this friggin' V-Cube set up." Victor grumbled as he fiddled with the TV.
"You're part robot, Cy. Maybe you should ask it nicely."
"Not funny, B." Victor glared.
"Please." Garfield waved a hand. "I'm hilarious."
Turning expectantly to the orange girl behind him, he pressed, "Starfire thinks I'm funny. Right, Star?"
Not wanting to bruise his ego, she politely chimed in, "Oh, yes. Um, you are most hilarious."
Gar appeared satisfied by the response. "I rest my case."
"Great." Robin muttered. "As if his head wasn't swollen enough."
Blinking curiously, Starfire leaned down to examine for herself. "Garfield, you are experiencing the swelling? Is it uncomfortable?"
The boy stared at her uncomprehendingly before bursting into laughter. "Ha ha! Good one, Star! For a minute there, I thought you were serious."
The girl self-consciously rubbed her arm before awkwardly joining her friend's giggling fit. "Of course not."
"Got it!" Victor crowed triumphantly. "Hope you two are ready to get your butts kicked."
"I'll take that bet." Robin smirked, picking up a controller.
"Dudes, before you know it, I'm gonna be running circles around both of you."
Sensing that her presence was unwelcome in the midst of all the machismo, Koriand'r backed away and retreated to her room, excited to wear her new socks.
2:30 PM
"My compliments to the chef." Victor grinned as he took a huge bite of his burger.
After a hearty few rounds of Mega Monkeys, Victor had decided to grill some burgers and once he was finished, splayed them out on the new picnic table he'd purchased today.
He'd made enough for everyone but so far no takers. Raven must've been lost in her own personal library. When he'd checked on Gar, he was asleep with comic panels splayed over his face. Robin was probably still sulking after Victor had embarrassed him in a best of seven tournament. His only remaining housemate rounded the corner wearing a purple crop top with a gold star on the top. The outfit was completed by a pair of jean shorts and sandals along with…
"Victor! I am wearing the socks!"
"I see." Victor laughed. "You went big, girl. Puppies and kitties."
"Whatever you have prepared smells most lovely. May I try it?" She asked, eyeing the burgers hungrily.
"Of course. I made enough for everybody."
Given the green light, she reached out as quick as a bolt of lightning and snatched one from the platter, throwing it down her gullet before he could blink.
She chewed thoughtfully before her expression lit up. "Glorious!" She enthused. "What is this meat?"
"It's called a hamburger. It tastes even better if you add a bun and some condiments."
She gasped excitedly as he handed her a bun and demonstrated how to put the burger inside. "Like the mustard?!"
He chuckled. "Yeah. Like the mustard." He slid her a bottle across the table. "Go for it, kiddo."
He tried to hide his disgust as she slathered an unhealthy amount on her burger and turned his gaze to the sea.
It was so peaceful out here. Days like this made him forget he was an android freak. Out here, he was just as normal or weird as anybody else, depending on how you looked at it. And away from the city, he could stroll and move around as he pleased. It was the most freedom he'd had in months. It felt so good to be a part of the world again.
Happily munching away on her hamburger, Koriand'r shared his sense of ease. Gazing up at their Tower gleaming in the sunlight, she caught a glance at Robin gazing down at her intently from the bay window, mouth agape.
Fearing she appeared disheveled, she awkwardly waved.
Flinching as if he'd been caught doing something wrong, Robin retreated from view as if he'd never been there.
The girl's shoulders slumped as she feared she had done something to offend him. Fitting in was proving to be quite the challenge.
"Everything all right?"
Starfire jumped at Victor's sudden intrusion into her thoughts. "Yes. Perfectly."
"Well, help yourself, Star. I've got some work to do down in the lab."
"Would you like the company?"
Sensing that she needed it more than him, Victor humbly acquiesced. "Not a bad idea. C'mon."
The redhead excitedly leaped up to follow her friend, but not before shoveling down one last burger.
…..
"And…finished."
Lifting the device up from the worktable for inspection, Starfire turned it in her hands curiously. "And you say these devices will be able to help us communicate with each other?"
"Yep. I've got mine built into my wrist. Try testing it out."
Pressing the button to activate it, she was greeted by Cyborg's visage grinning back at her from the screen.
"Guess it works." He said proudly. Looking up to address her directly, he continued, "I don't have a catchy name for 'em yet, but I figure we'll need these if we ever get separated."
"These are most impressive." Starfire complimented. Eyeing some sketches on the far wall, she asked, "What are those designs for?"
"I was mulling over building some kinda submarine since we're on the water and all that. I'm not super committed to the idea but it would be helpful."
Lifting up a set of blueprints hidden behind the computer, she lifted it so her friend could see. "And these? They appear similar in concept to the automobiles I see in the city."
Victor's eyes widened for a moment before he quickly came over, all but snatching it from her hands and rolling it up. "It's nothing."
Putting the prints back where they came from, he said, "Look, I have some maintenance I wanna run before dinner. It's really boring stuff. I'm sure you have better things to do."
"I assure you, it is no trouble."
"I just…is it okay if I'm alone for a little while?"
Hiding her hurt well, she simply said, "Of course." She began to exit before stopping in the doorway. "Thank you for the hamburgers. They were quite delicious."
"Anytime." He smiled softly. "Now get out of here." He gently urged. "Judging by the way he was mooning at you earlier, I'm sure Robin wouldn't mind your company." He said playfully.
She blushed briefly before casting her gaze to the floor. "He did not give me that impression earlier."
"Rob's a guy. We have trouble expressing our emotions. Some more than others. Besides, if anyone can drag Bird Brain out of his room, I'm betting it's you."
She accepted his words with a resolute nod. "I shall try."
"Atta girl. See you at dinner."
Waving her farewell, Koriand'r floated up the staircase, considering Cyborg's words.
Despite his attempts to rebuff her, Koriand'r was determined to help Robin, no matter what it took.
….
Robin's work was interrupted by a timid knock on his door and he sighed, anticipating who was on the other side of the door. If she was still wearing the crop top and shorts he'd seen her in earlier, maybe this conversation wouldn't be so bad.
"Starfire, I really don't…" He stopped dead in his tracks when he saw who was there. "Raven?"
"Your emotions were going haywire." She explained flatly. "I figured someone should check on you before you had a heart attack or something. What's on your mind?"
"I'm fine." He quickly assured. Her nonplussed expression showed she didn't believe him. "Ok, I'll tell you. But this has to stay between us. I don't want the others to know yet."
She nodded, then cleared her throat with a nod.
"Oh, right. Uh, come in." He gestured, letting her go past him before shutting the door.
"So this sensing emotions stuff? How deep does that go?" Robin asked as she came to a stop.
"Still figuring it out." She answered nonchalantly. "Now aren't you supposed to be answering my question?"
He took a breath before speaking. "There's this criminal, an assassin named Deathstroke. His reputation is legendary. Some people call him the Terminator. I've heard rumors about him being based here in Jump the past few months. No idea why. But that's the reason I'm here. At least, it was before I met you guys. I've been trying to track him down in my spare time. Haven't had a lot of that lately." He paused, and she simply stared, waiting for him to continue. "Anyway, I've been trying to get information about his whereabouts. I haven't had much luck and was getting a little frustrated. I'm guessing that's what you were sensing."
"Why not tell the others?" Raven asked after a moment.
"We have enough to worry about without looking for the World's Greatest Assassin. Plus, this is a personal mission. I don't want to drag everyone else into it."
"I see. Trust me, you don't have to worry. I can keep a secret."
I'm sure.
Out loud, he said, "I appreciate it." Awkwardly rubbing his neck, he asked, "So how was today's trip?"
"Other than the visit to the bookstore? Rather tedious." After a drawn-out pause, she stood up. "I'm guessing you feel like talking even less than I do. I'll see myself out."
As the door closed behind her, Robin couldn't help but feel there was still a lot more to learn about Raven. And he was determined to find out what.
5:15 PM
Robin yawned as he exited the bathroom. The afternoon had dragged, and he'd nearly fallen asleep at his desk again before nature had called.
He was considering checking if Cyborg had left any burgers from earlier when his nose caught a revolting smell.
Following the scent, he came across a crouching Beast Boy holding a ball of various trash in his hand, appearing to be waiting for someone.
"What are you doing?"
Squeaking, Garfield nearly dropped his concoction before righting himself. "Waiting for Cyborg."
"What is that thing?" He asked, pinching his nose.
Garfield turned fully, revealing a pair of tweezers on his nose. "I call it the 'Stankball'." He revealed proudly.
"I can't imagine why." Robin muttered sarcastically. "And you're doing this why?"
"Because it's an amazing prank? Don't tell me you don't wanna get back at Cy after he whipped your butt earlier."
Frowning at the reminder, Robin sulked before adopting a devilish smirk. "So what's the plan?"
…
"Yo, Cy! You busy?" Garfield frantically asked, scampering down the hallway.
"What is it, B?" Victor asked suspiciously.
"Gar backed up the toilet." Robin grumbled, exiting the bathroom.
"What can I say, dude? Chili cheese chips run right through me." Gar said with an apologetic smile.
"Could you help us find the plunger?"
"And here I thought you were the detective." Victor said with an eyeroll.
Noting the wads of toilet paper stuffed in the commode, he entered the bathroom and made for the cabinet. "It should be where it always is…"
Opening the bottom drawer, Victor was met with a full-on nasal assault.
"Ugh. Damn. What in the world?"
"It's called a stankball." Robin laughed from behind him, Garfield joining in.
"Very funny." Victor scowled. Smirking devilishly, he said, "Almost as funny as when I give you a swirlie."
Squeaking in terror, Garfield morphed to a gerbil and scurried away as Victor lunged for him.
Grabbing the plunger, Victor began unclogging the toilet, tossing the stankball in for good measure before flushing. "Y'know, I gotta admit. Not bad for a prank." Exiting the room with Robin behind him, he commented, "I'm glad you're not a total stick in the mud. For a minute, I thought you were a 50-year-old in a teenage body."
"I'm not that bad, am I?" Robin laughed.
Cyborg's lack of response spoke volumes.
"Ok, maybe a little." The boy conceded, awkwardly rubbing his neck. "I'm sorry about blowing up at you earlier."
"It happens. I haven't exactly been the nicest guy myself the past few months."
"Even so, you were still trying to save the city. If it weren't for you and your father, we wouldn't have known nearly as much about the H.I.V.E. as we do. Not to mention the fact that we wouldn't even have the Tower if not for you two."
"I figure I might as well earn my keep around here. If I'm a not a very good superhero, I can at least be the resident mechanic."
"You're not too bad a chef either." Robin smiled. "Although I can't defend your taste as a sports fan. I spotted the Jump City Champions gear at your place. You know they don't have a shot against the Gotham Rogues this season."
"Oh, huh?" Victor crossed his arms. "Care to place money on that?"
Robin cockily smirked. "Why not? The Rogues wipe the floor with the Champions every year. 50 bucks says I'm right."
"50 bucks says you're wrong. Shake on it?"
"Deal." Robin agreed, shaking the proffered hand.
"Now when it comes to the JC Rebels vs the Gotham Knights? I'm willing to bet a hundred bucks on that."
Robin's expression sank at the change of topic to baseball. "This year's gonna be different!"
"Yeah, yeah, yeah. Next you'll tell me BB's actually funny…"
8:00 PM
Raven's thoughts were disrupted by a gentle knock on her door. She'd already talked with Robin and Starfire today and she doubted Beast Boy had come up for air from his game system.
That left only…
"Cyborg." She greeted, only partially opening her door. "Is something wrong?"
"There is." He said, deadly serious.
Her insides clenched, dreading what he would say next.
"What is it?"
"You're in here all by yourself." He finished, his expression and tone becoming gentler and more playful. "C'mon out. It's movie night."
"Movie night?"
"Yeah. I figured we should all get together and do something that isn't training or fighting crime so…movie night!" He exclaimed with a flourish.
"What's a movie?"
He blinked, taken aback before responding, "Come with me and you'll find out."
Reluctantly, she left her book alone and followed him to the common room where the others awaited.
Robin and Beast Boy appeared to be in a heated debate.
"Beast Boy, there is no way I am watching Deplorable You! The little henchmen creep me out." Robin admitted sheepishly.
"Well, nobody's in the mood to watch Stolen 3! As much as I love Callum Eason, the shtick gets kinda old." Suddenly whipping his head towards the empath, Garfield asked, "What kind of movies do you like, Raven?"
Taken aback, she thought for a moment before answering honestly, "I don't know."
"C'mon, you must have a go-to flick, right?" Garfield implored.
"She's never seen any." Victor chimed in helpfully.
Garfield's jaw dropped as if this were a crime against humanity.
"I, too, am confused on the concept of the movies." Starfire said as she floated into the room.
Locking gazes, the boys seemed to come to a decision.
"Galactic Warfare?" Garfield prompted.
"Galactic Warfare." Robin and Cyborg agreed.
"Who is attacking?" Starfire asked, immediately on guard.
"Nobody." Robin assured her. "It's a film series."
"What does it entail?"
"An epic struggle between good and evil for the fate of the universe." Garfield excitedly answered.
"I'll get the popcorn." Victor announced, heading for the kitchen while Robin queued it up on the TV as Garfield explained the concept of movies and promising the girls would love it.
Despite being determined not to let it show on her face, Raven found her first experience with popcorn and soda to be delightful. Cyborg seemed to catch on as he retrieved more for her without being asked, sending a secret smile her way.
She didn't really understand the film and was still getting used to movies in general, but the intimate atmosphere created by the dimmed lights and the city skyline in the background was enjoyable.
Maybe this whole having friends thing wasn't so overrated after all.
…..
"Looks like movie night was a good idea." Robin whispered to Victor who was busy sweeping up popcorn kernels.
Once the film had ended, Raven had swiftly retreated to her room, bidding a quick goodnight to all but Beast Boy who was snoring like a vacuum cleaner.
Starfire had offered to carry Beast Boy back to his room leaving the two young men to clean up the mess.
"I just thought it would be a good way for us to hang out." Victor responded. "All of us." He said with a pointed look. "We missed you earlier."
"I was busy." Robin shrugged as he threw soda cans into a trash bag.
"As always."
"Someone's gotta keep this operation afloat." Robin said, only half-joking, as he grinned at Victor's eyeroll in response.
"I can finish up here." The older boy promised. "Why don't you go get some sleep? Y'know, if you do that."
"Ha-Ha. I'll have you know I get at least 3 hours of sleep a night, thank you very much."
"You're kidding, right?"
"Do I ever?"
"Will you just get outta here?"
Smirking, Robin waved, as he headed for the entrance. "'Night."
As he slowly began the trek to his quarters, Robin caught a flash of red hair heading up the stairwell to the roof.
Curiously following, Robin hung back as Starfire reached the roof and floated to the edge, dangling her legs over the side.
Koriand'r sighed as she placed her chin in her hands, contemplating the cityscape before lifting her gaze heavenward.
She was grateful to her new friends for taking her in and accepting her into the group but that didn't mean she didn't miss her true home.
She hoped Tamaran wouldn't suffer further retribution for her escape. Not only did she lack a spacecraft to return, but even if she did, the treaty would be broken and everyone she loved would be destroyed.
She let out a frustrated sigh, blinking back the tears that threatened to spill out.
"You wanna talk about it?"
The girl jerked in surprise before quickly putting on a brave face as her companion sat beside her. "Robin! I do not know what you mean."
His unfazed stare was his only reply.
"Very well." She exhaled in resignation. "I am feeling…'homesick' for Tamaran. Please do not misunderstand me. I am thankful for the friends I have made here." Starfire promised with a warm smile that he returned. "But I yearn to go back to my loved ones. I simply wish I had a way of knowing they were safe."
"You did everything you could to ensure they would be." He assured her gently, hesitantly squeezing her hand quickly before pulling his own back. There was an awkward pause before the boy continued, "You mentioned you had a sister. What's she like?"
The Princess paused a moment, trying to decide on the right words to describe Komand'r. "Determined. Strong-willed. She has a wicked sense of humor. She is shrewd, cunning, and rather direct when she wants to be."
"Sounds like somebody I know." Robin muttered.
"But she always means well. She wants what is best for Tamaran. She would make a fantastic Queen. It has been her dream for as long as I can remember."
"With all of those qualities and your powers, I'm sure she'll keep Tamaran safe. If she's anything like you, your people are in good hands."
She blushed. "Thank you."
Robin shyly turned away as his face began to heat up.
Sensing the uncomfortable territory, she cleared her throat and continued, "I also have a younger brother, Ryand'r. In English, it would translate to Wildfire." She couldn't fight the fond smile that crept on her face as she spoke of him. "He is a bright and courageous young man. All his life, he has wanted to join the military. He has trained as a warrior since he could walk. He is truly born to it."
"It sounds like he would make a good Titan." Robin smiled. "Is there anybody else there that you miss? What about your parents?"
Her expression hardened minutely. "My parents are wise and fair rulers." She spoke carefully, as if biting back curses. The fire behind her eyes dimmed a little as she continued, "My father is a jovial and happy man. I believe I have inherited his sunny disposition. Komand'r is more like our mother. She shares her drive and passion. Ryand'r is the best of both of them. But I believe the person I miss most of all is Galfore."
"Oh." Robin paused before venturing, "Is he your…boyfriend or something?"
Her booming laughter in response echoed across the bay. "Assuredly not. He is my k'norfka. The best description in your language would be a caretaker. He has cared for my family since before I was born. He is our most loyal attendant, whether it be in matters domestic or diplomatic."
"So he's your butler?" Robin asked with a secret smile to himself.
"He is whatever the Royal Family requires him to be. To me, he is my trainer and more importantly, counsel." She sighed forlornly. "I would give anything to hear his insight now."
A heavy silence pervaded before Robin blurted. "Have you ever heard of the Big Dipper?"
"The what?" Koriand'r asked, blinking out of her mental fog.
"It's a constellation in the night sky." He explained. Pointing skyward, he began explaining the constellations to her and their origin.
Soon enough, the girl had begun to tune him out, her focus shifting away from the beauty of the heavens above to the ones on Earth as she scooted closer, feeling as if the cold night had just gotten a lot warmer.
The End
A/N: Sorry about the wait between chapters. Thanks for being so patient. My life has gotten pretty busy lately. Thanks to slydog148, Rollerparty, FireShifter, and BlueCharizardFire for reviewing. Thank you to FoudeNoire, the 5th Doctor, and ctran03931 for following this story.
Ok, everybody, this is the last of the set-up chapters. Now we start diving into the main story. FYI: I snatched the title of this chapter from issue #8 of the New Teen Titans.
Next up: The Titans' first supervillain!
