The Captain: Last Chapter time! I've gonna make sure this one's done right. I'll be a good long one too! Lots of action, dramatics, and I'll throw some comedy somewhere. I had a problem with the ending...but I got it worked out and I do think I did end it pretty well. Always remember to review my story, and if you ever wanna chat with me, I'm on AoL from time to time (Samurai Baker X) or just E-mail me at King_Schmo@yahoo.com.
Legal Tander: Well, I'm out of witty responses. I don't own the Titans, plain and simple. Don't sue me, I don't have any money to give.
Shadow Requiem: To the Rescue, part 2
Raven and Beastboy were running through the city as a large mob ran for then with guns blazing. The pair took to the skies and took a moment to hide up on a rooftop and regroup. Ever since they had made it back to the surface, they've been on the run. Those criminals were quite dangerous, and the pair were illy prepared for such a large crowd.
Beastboy: " Dude...this sucks. All we've been doing is running."
Raven: " We don't have a lot of options right now. They were waiting for us right when we came up from the sewers."
Beastboy: " So any ideas at all?"
Raven: " Not really...but they've already taken down a couple of buildings. Without using any kind of lethal force, this will be very hard."
Beastboy: " Any word from the others?"
Raven: " Not yet. Hold on a moment..."
Raven whipped out her communicator off of her bangle, flipping it open and reaching Cyborg.
Cyborg: " Raven! What's up?"
Raven: " Well...not much will be if you guys don't get up here. Beastboy and I can't even face them down. If one see's us, they all turn and shoot. Even my force field won't hold up."
Cyborg: " Well, we're on our way."
Beastboy: " So what happened? Is everything alright?"
Cyborg: " Yes and no. Slade and Smoke got away, but we've got Robin and Sherri. Looks like they're beginning to wake up to."
Raven: " Who's Smoke?"
Cyborg: " Long story made short, he's Slade's new running man."
Raven: " Great. So, does anyone have any ideas? Because there's just an army of them down there and even my powers can't quite deal with that."
Cyborg: " Hang on Raven. We'll be up there shortly. We'll just regroup together and just start putting a hurt on them!"
Raven: " Whatever...just hurry up."
Raven closed the link and put her communicator away, looking to Beastboy.
Raven: " Alright, they'll by up shortly. However, until then, we need to slow this crowd down before they go destroying anymore more."
On cue, the sound of a few rounds from their high powered rifle's echoed through the streets of the dark city. Explosions were heard and felt as a small office building was brought to the ground. Police and Firefighters were avoiding the crowd in fear of their own lives, just waiting on the Titan's to show up and save the day. Raven peeked over the ledge of the building she and Beastboy were hiding on, observing the crowd below. They were terribly rowdy, shooting up anything on the streets and stealing whatever wasn't bolted down or too heavy to carry. The city behind them looked like a warzone. With crumbled buildings and smoking heaps, you'd think that a battalion of tanks had just rolled through.
However, not to far underground, the other 3 Titans were running their hardest to make it back to the surface. Cyborg was carrying Robin over his shoulder while Starfire carried Sherri while in flight. The pair started to awaken though, causing the 3 running Titans to stop and let them down. Robin shook his head, rubbing it slightly.
Robin: " Ugh...what happened?"
Cyborg: " You alright Robin?"
Robin: " Yeah...I'm fine."
Starfire: " It is wonderful that you are in better health."
Robin: " Yeah well, I still have a ringing in my ears...but that's no big deal."
Terra: " You sure you're gonna be ok dude?"
Robin: " Yeah...I'll be fine. So what's going on?"
Cyborg: " Well...remember all them inmates that got released?"
Robin: " Yeah."
Cyborg: " Slade armed them all with these high powered rifles. They're tearing up the city...Raven and BB can't do anything right now since there's too many of them."
Robin: " I see. Well...I think I've got a plan..."
Sherri started to come around about now, so Starfire sat her down on the ground. She looked around, seeing the 4 Titan's around her.
Sherri: " Whoa...what's going on?"
Robin: " What all do you remember?"
Sherri: " Huh? Well, I was in my house doing some cleaning, and then everything went black. Then, I woke up in this strange place, talked with a guy with a long red scarf. I got knocked out again somehow, and here I am. What's going on..."
Robin: " Well, you were kidnapped by a man named Slade, just like I was."
Sherri: " A man named Slade? No no no...Slade is the guy my brother works for. He's his personal assistant...that can't be right."
Robin: " Sherri...was it?"
Sherri: " Yeah."
Robin: " Well...there's something we need to tell you..."
Starfire interrupted the conversation, remembering that Clive didn't want Sherri to know about his powers.
Starfire: " Slade is actually an aweful man. He tricked Clive into working for him."
Sherri: " Really? But what's the big deal? I mean, all my brother did was just take calls for him and did all his paperwork stuff."
Robin: " It's not that..."
Starfire: " Well, Clive...ummm..."
Robin pulled Starfire aside, realizing that she was obviously up to something. They spoke in very low whispers.
Robin: " Star, what's the matter?"
Starfire: " Clive said Sherri doesn't know about Slade or his powers...and did not want her to know, so she would not get mad or become sad."
Robin: " Well, I guess I can understand that...by the way, where is Clive?"
Starfire: " ...."
Robin: " What is it Star?"
Starfire: " Clive...is gone..."
Robin: " He's gone? Oh...I see..."
Starfire looked to the ground with a frown. Robin pat her on the shoulder to comfort her, then turned to Sherri, who was very confused.
Sherri: " You guys are the Titans. Robin, Cyborg, Starfire, and...uhh..."
Terra: " Terra. I'm new!"
Sherri: " Oh, cool. But what's going on? Where's my brother now?"
All the Titan's looked to each other for an answer to her question. Sherri's facial expression became one of extreme worry.
Sherri: " Please...tell me he's alright. Please? Starfire?"
Starfire couldn't bring herself to look Sherri in the eyes. She didn't want to be the bearer of bad news. Robin stepped in though.
Robin: " Sherri...we don't know what's happened to Clive...but no one has seen him since our disappearance."
Sherri: " ...I can't lose him now..."
Robin: " Don't worry. As soon as we take care of everything in the city, we'll start searching for Clive immediately."
Sherri: " Promise?"
Robin: " I promise."
Sherri nodded quietly, sighing lightly as the 5 of them continued back towards the surface. Robin took out his communicator, giving a check up on Raven and Beastboy.
Robin: " Hey! You guys there?"
Raven picked up on her communicator.
Raven: " Yeah, we're here."
Robin: " You alright?"
Raven: " Yes."
Robin: " So...what's the crowd doing?"
Raven: " They're in the shopping mall right now doing some petty theft. Atleast they're not hurting anyone yet..."
Robin: " Well...seal up the mall and don't let them out."
Raven: " I'll do what I can. I can keep them in, but those rifles they have may be too much for me to stop. But I'll slow them down."
Robin: " Good. We'll be there shortly."
Robin put his communicator away and lead his team out of the sewers. Finally, they had reached the surface and set down on the street.
Terra: " Ok Robin, what's the big plan?"
He took a moment to gather his thoughts and get his plan into words.
Robin: " Well...here's my idea. I need Starfire, Raven, and Beastboy to keep them preoccupied. I don't want to say it, but you'll have to act as decoys to draw their fire and lead them in a large open field. Once they're gathered together, Terra, you hit them with an earthquake to knock'em down, then me and Cyborg will keep them down."
Cyborg: " Works for me. What about her?"
The team looked back at the teary eyed teenage girl.
Robin: " We'd best keep an eye on her. Stay with her Terra."
Terra: " Not a problem!"
Robin took out his communicator once again and called up Raven. No answer came for a short while, until Beastboy's face showed up on the screen.
Beastboy: " What's up man?"
Robin: " Is Raven sealing the Mall?"
Beastboy: " Yeah. They haven't realized yet that it's...oh wait..."
A sudden explosion shook the building. Raven furrowed her brow a bit, tensing up as she struggled to keep the enemies within the structure.
Beastboy: " Ok Robin, what's the plan?"
Robin: " The 4 of us will be there shortly. You, Raven, and Starfire will herd the mob into the park across the street. Fly over head and let them shoot at you, but be careful that they don't hit you."
Beastboy: " Well duh...so then what?"
Robin: " Terra, Cyborg, and I will hit'm with everything we've got."
Beastboy: " Great! Then get here fast, I don't know how long Raven can keep this up."
Robin: " Alright then. Robin out."
He turned to the rest of the team afterwards, giving out his instructions.
Robin: " Cyborg, take Sherri and Terra to the park. Starfire, get to the mall and wait for my signal. I'll meet up with you guys at the park."
The Titan's dispersed. Starfire made her way to the Mall quickly, while Cyborg used his power mechanical joints to run with both Terra and Sherri in his arms. Robin was following him through the use of his grappling hook, swinging from building to building with ease. Starfire met up with Raven and Beastboy at the mall, and set down on the roof with them. The walls shook more as Raven held them in, but her powers were slowly starting to fail.
Starfire: " Raven, Beastboy, we must let them out and bring them over to the park."
Raven: " Alright."
Raven eased off of her powers, allowing the flood of criminals out. Beastboy took to the skies as an Eagle, while Raven and Starfire flew over head, shooting off bolts of energy to get the mobs attention. They returned fire, but because of the cover of the night, they were very hard targets to hit. The mob fired up into the sky and chased after the 3 flying Titans, following them right into the park. Finally, they were gathered in the right spot. Robin gave Terra the signal and she caused the ground to shake violently, knocking the criminals off their feet. On cue, Robin threw his sonic disk, arming it as it left his hand. Cyborg formed his sonic blaster, and just as he was about to fire it, the sonic disk caught fire and blew up prematurely. Cyborgs blast still went off and shook up some of the fallen escapee's, but that's about it. Robin glared outwards as a lone figure stood in front of the mob, dressed in a grey overcoat with a red scarf.
Robin: " Who are you?"
Smoke: " Smoke."
Robin: " Well you're about to get smoked here!"
Robin threw a pair of birdarangs in Smoke's direction. Before they could hit him though, they melted in midair and splattered on the ground. The pair charged each other and fought it out, using various martial arts styles. Smoke was much taller than Robin, but still carried his speed and strength as well. Robin was still formidable though, but didn't dare let Smoke land a solid hit as his hands were burning with fire.
The mob started to get up again, so the Titan's went to work trying to get them in combat so they wouldn't use their rifles. They were making a very slow progression against the crowd, but unfortunately for Robin, Smoke's abilities were far too skilled and powerful for his own. As the pair fought, Smoke made the temperature around them rise, until it was just too unbearable to be close to him. As Robin fought him, sweat was just draining out of his poors and causing his suit to bother him. His eyes began to burn and he felt very sensitive. But Smoke didn't seem to be bothered by it at all. Robin backed off for a moment, trying to cool off.
Smoke: " What's wrong Robin...can't take the heat?"
Robin: " What's sad is that I can fend you off and I don't have powers."
Smoke: " True, and for that, I applaud your efforts, but a real warrior comes into battle with all his strengths at the ready. In this case, mine is fire, as well as my fighting style."
Robin was trying to think of a way to fight off Smoke. He couldn't get close enough, and it seemed that if he used anything, Smoke would just melt it. Infact, Robin was sure Smoke was just being nice enough to not cause him to suddenly combust. The pair continued their duel while the other Titan's struggled against the mass of criminals. They formed a regimental firing squard, each just taking shots at the remaining 5. Terra and Raven used their respective powers to provide cover, while Starfire and Cyborg would take shots at the horde, trying to get them to back off. Beastboy couldn't even get close for fear of getting killed. And, since Robin seemed to be losing, it was becoming apparent that the Titans were going to lose. For once Robin lost to Smoke, that would leave the remaining Titans' backs facing him. Robin fought desperately, but finally, Smoke had enough.
Smoke: " You're pretty good Robin...but I'm tired of playing around. So if you'll excuse me, I'm gonna finish my job here."
Robin started to sweat profusely and constantly wiped his brow. The other titan's saw this and began to worry. And out of nowhere, Robin's utility belt exploded, knocking him down to the ground and singed his uniform. He got up slowly, and between the 2, the Titan's had nothing left.
But a darkness spread out over the area, encompassing the whole park. Everyone stopped, in awe of the sudden change. The Titan's tried to shine out lights to see, and once again, it failed.
Starfire: " The darkness has come back!"
Robin: " What is this?"
Cyborg: " This happened earlier!"
Raven: " Wait a moment, something is here..."
Beastboy: " Dude...I'm getting really creeped out."
Terra: " You're not the only one."
Smoke: " What is it now?"
No one heard anything as everything had become silent. Smoke broke the silence.
Smoke: " Stop playing this game Grey. It wasn't funny last time!"
Terra: " What are you talking about?"
Smoke: " Then are you guys doing this?"
Robin: " What's going on?"
Starfire: " Raven! Please inform us..."
Raven: " I...I..."
The sound of metal crushing and circuitry breaking filled the air, and then explosions rang out from all around. The darkness lifted as it did before, and there, standing in the midst of all the criminals was none of the than Clive. Everyone stared at him for a moment, taking in his sudden dramatic appearance. It was then that the Titans noticed that the high powered rifles had all been broken. The convicts also noticed quickly and began to flee, being quickly persued by the Titans. Clive approached Smoke, standing between him and Robin. Smoke narrowed his eyes at the sight of Clive.
Smoke: " Well now, this is an unexpected surprise."
Clive: " Who are you?"
Smoke: " Name's Smoke."
Clive: " Why's that?"
Smoke: " Because where there's Smoke, there's fire."
Clive: " Yeah yeah. Let's just do this."
Smoke advanced on Clive, jumping towards him with his fist extended and burning brightly. Clive ripped his guitar out of his shadow and countered Smoke's attack by smashing his hand with the insturment. Smoke reeled, but only slightly, taking a quick hop and kicking Clive in the temple, knocking him to the ground. Rolling away to safety, Clive got back and threw his guitar at Smoke, smashing him in the face with it and sending him back a few feet. When Smoke tried to get up, a huge black hand enveloped him, squeezing him tightly. Smoke caused his entire body to catch flame, but it didn't cause the hand to let him go. Clive frowned as his eyes began to glow with a pale blue light, much like Black's eyes. He let go of Smoke after a few more moments of squeezing the air out of him. Smoke fell to his hands and knees, catching his breath. He stood up straight afterwards.
Smoke: " Well now, aren't we benevolent."
Clive: " Get lost."
Smoke: " Perhaps I shall."
Smoke put his hands into his pockets and stared straight out at Clive. He pointed his middle and index fingers out to Clive like a gun and pulled it back like it had been fired. A small flicker of fire shot out and brushed against Clives face. Clive felt some Deja Vu in it, but didn't let it be seen. The pair stared each other down just a bit more, then Smoke disappeared in flames. Clive turned around after his match up to see all sorts of the escaped cons laying all over the ground. The police followed by soon after in large van loads. They spread out over the entire area, handcuffing and detaining those the Titan's had already dealt with.
Clive wandered the crowds in search of Sherri, wanting to see her with his own eyes. He scoured the area up and down, then found her by Terra, whom was giving her story to the police. Clive made a run for her on sight, wrapping his arms around her on contact. After realizing it was him, she did the same.
Clive: " Sherri, you're safe. Thank god..."
Sherri: " Clive! You're ok! No one knew what happened to you! I was so worried!"
Clive set her down and checked her over, making sure she was ok. After seeing that she didn't have any cuts or bruises, he stood up straight and sighed with relief.
Sherri: " Clive, what is going on? Why did all of this happen?"
Clive: " Sherri, there is a lot I've been keeping from you. That man I worked for, Mr. Slade...he was a terrible man and he had me do some terrible things. He asked me to do them, because...I have some abilities that I've never let you know about. Like, super powers and such. Slade had me use them for his purposes and for that, he would make sure we had rent money, insurance, food, and whatever else we needed that I couldn't make."
Sherri: " Is that true? What all did you do?"
Clive: " I stole some things, destroyed some things, terrorized the Titans on numerous occasions, freed hundreds of prisoners, and generally sucked overall."
Sherri sat there staring at him in some disbelief. The other titans had found them and were gathering to talk to the two of them, but watched as the events unfolded. Sherri teared up, looking down at the ground. Clive frowned, but then, she slapped him across the face, then turned red with some anger.
Sherri: " You jerk! You stupid stupid jerk! What were you thinking doing something like that? Huh?"
Clive: " Well I..."
Sherri: " That's right! You weren't thinking! You didn't think that I might worry about you! Or that all of this would happen! You could have killed someone! Please don't tell me that you've done that too!"
Clive: " Of course not Sherri...you know I...
She slapped him again across the cheek.
Sherri: " You're gonna get in deep trouble because of this! And did you ever take a moment to consider how I felt? Sure the bills are important, but so are my feelings!"
Clive: " All I can say is sorry Sherri. And that I'll fix this whole mess....I'm not sure how...but I'll do it."
A police officer came in and broke the pair up. Clive gave him a bit of resistance, not wanting to leave his younger sister's side. However, he cooperated and let the man handcuff him. He began to lead Clive out, but stopped so the other titans could talk with him for a moment.
Terra: " Hey dude...I'm glad you're alive."
Clive: " Well, dying just not my gig."
Terra: " Whatever happens, I want you to remember you owe me a rematch."
Clive: " Anytime, any place Terra."
Beastboy: " Dude, and when that happens, let me know so I can sell tickets and make a decent buck off it."
Clive: " You got it Beastboy."
Cyborg: " Hey man...thanks for all your help with the mess out here."
Clive: " I caused it, so I should have to fix it."
Cyborg: " Were you down in Slade's headquarters with us earlier?"
Clive: " Sorry, but I didn't wake up till about an hour ago. I guess it takes a little more than a building dropping to put me and Black out of business permanently."
Cyborg: " Well, see you round man."
Clive: " You too dude."
Cyborg made a fist and Clive gave it a good hit. Raven came up after the first three.
Clive: " Howdy."
Raven: " Yeah...thanks."
Clive: " Anytime."
Raven: " Can you answer me a question?"
Clive: " Shoot."
Raven: " Do you know why Black has a particular interest?"
Clive: " Why?"
Raven: " He say's he knows me...but I don't know him."
Clive: " Well...I'd ask him right now, but he's sleeping. See, even though he could take the whole damn building falling on him, that still hurts and can tucker someone out. Even him."
Raven: " I see...well thank you anyways."
Robin was next. Clive was a little unsure how this would go, considering he and the boy wonder had never exactly gotten along.
Robin: " Hey Clive...I want to thank you for helping me back there with Smoke."
Clive: " No problem. It was my pleasure. I love clown stomping."
Robin: " I also want to say I'm sorry for how I came off. You know, being a jerk and all."
Clive: " It's alright. You're just doing your job."
Robin: " Well...thanks for your help today."
Clive: " Glad I could be of service."
Robin walked off to talk to the police commissioner. Starfire was the last to approach Clive. Her face was awash with feelings of all kinds. Clive gave her his more light hearted grins to try and bring her spirits up.
Clive: " Hey Starfire, how are ya?"
Starfire: " I...I am fine."
Clive: " Those guys didn't hurt you did they?"
Starfire: " No, they did not. I am undamaged."
Clive: " Then what's wrong Starfire? You seem down?"
Starfire: " I...was worried about you."
Clive: " Oh...yeah. I'm sorry about that."
Starfire: " I am greatly relieved that you are alive."
Clive: " Well, I attribute it all to my hard head. Sherri always say's my heads harder than a rock, so I guess that it finally did me some good."
Starfire giggled a bit, feeling better. She smiled finally, then gave him a hug. The police man backed off, giving them the moment. Afterwards, she stepped back away from him.
Starfire: " What will you do now?"
Clive: " I've got a lot of crimes to answer for. As for Sherri...well I don't know what's going to happen to her. I'll do what I can for her though. I'll have Black keep an eye on her for me."
Starfire: " Truely an honorable thing you are doing."
Clive: " Well, it's the right thing to do."
Officer: " Time to go kid."
Clive: " Yeah yeah...I hear ya. Well Star, it's been fun. I'll try and write....maybe I'll even get to see ya again."
Starfire: " I would hope so. I wish you the best of the luck."
The officer led Clive back to his van and escorted him inside. Clive sassed him about the damaging the goods briefly as he got a pat down before getting inside. The Titans watched him get taken away, and afterwards, they regrouped. Some more police officers came in and picked up Sherri, taking her to a social security officer who would get her into a new home.
Robin: " Any thoughts guys?"
Cyborg: " Well, I hate to see him go."
Terra: " Me too."
Beastboy: " Me three."
Starfire: " Is there anything we can do?"
Raven: " Doubtful. But this is the best path he could have chosen. Atleast this way, his punishment won't be quite as bad."
Robin: " Yeah. You're right. Well guys, let's go. It's late and I'm tired.
Cyborg: " Amen."
The Titan's began to leave the park, walking back to the tower at a slow marchlike pace. Clive turned around in his seat and took one last look to the Titans, and smiled as Starfire turned his way for one last look.
Clive: " Well, till we meet again Angel."
Legal Tander: Well, I'm out of witty responses. I don't own the Titans, plain and simple. Don't sue me, I don't have any money to give.
Shadow Requiem: To the Rescue, part 2
Raven and Beastboy were running through the city as a large mob ran for then with guns blazing. The pair took to the skies and took a moment to hide up on a rooftop and regroup. Ever since they had made it back to the surface, they've been on the run. Those criminals were quite dangerous, and the pair were illy prepared for such a large crowd.
Beastboy: " Dude...this sucks. All we've been doing is running."
Raven: " We don't have a lot of options right now. They were waiting for us right when we came up from the sewers."
Beastboy: " So any ideas at all?"
Raven: " Not really...but they've already taken down a couple of buildings. Without using any kind of lethal force, this will be very hard."
Beastboy: " Any word from the others?"
Raven: " Not yet. Hold on a moment..."
Raven whipped out her communicator off of her bangle, flipping it open and reaching Cyborg.
Cyborg: " Raven! What's up?"
Raven: " Well...not much will be if you guys don't get up here. Beastboy and I can't even face them down. If one see's us, they all turn and shoot. Even my force field won't hold up."
Cyborg: " Well, we're on our way."
Beastboy: " So what happened? Is everything alright?"
Cyborg: " Yes and no. Slade and Smoke got away, but we've got Robin and Sherri. Looks like they're beginning to wake up to."
Raven: " Who's Smoke?"
Cyborg: " Long story made short, he's Slade's new running man."
Raven: " Great. So, does anyone have any ideas? Because there's just an army of them down there and even my powers can't quite deal with that."
Cyborg: " Hang on Raven. We'll be up there shortly. We'll just regroup together and just start putting a hurt on them!"
Raven: " Whatever...just hurry up."
Raven closed the link and put her communicator away, looking to Beastboy.
Raven: " Alright, they'll by up shortly. However, until then, we need to slow this crowd down before they go destroying anymore more."
On cue, the sound of a few rounds from their high powered rifle's echoed through the streets of the dark city. Explosions were heard and felt as a small office building was brought to the ground. Police and Firefighters were avoiding the crowd in fear of their own lives, just waiting on the Titan's to show up and save the day. Raven peeked over the ledge of the building she and Beastboy were hiding on, observing the crowd below. They were terribly rowdy, shooting up anything on the streets and stealing whatever wasn't bolted down or too heavy to carry. The city behind them looked like a warzone. With crumbled buildings and smoking heaps, you'd think that a battalion of tanks had just rolled through.
However, not to far underground, the other 3 Titans were running their hardest to make it back to the surface. Cyborg was carrying Robin over his shoulder while Starfire carried Sherri while in flight. The pair started to awaken though, causing the 3 running Titans to stop and let them down. Robin shook his head, rubbing it slightly.
Robin: " Ugh...what happened?"
Cyborg: " You alright Robin?"
Robin: " Yeah...I'm fine."
Starfire: " It is wonderful that you are in better health."
Robin: " Yeah well, I still have a ringing in my ears...but that's no big deal."
Terra: " You sure you're gonna be ok dude?"
Robin: " Yeah...I'll be fine. So what's going on?"
Cyborg: " Well...remember all them inmates that got released?"
Robin: " Yeah."
Cyborg: " Slade armed them all with these high powered rifles. They're tearing up the city...Raven and BB can't do anything right now since there's too many of them."
Robin: " I see. Well...I think I've got a plan..."
Sherri started to come around about now, so Starfire sat her down on the ground. She looked around, seeing the 4 Titan's around her.
Sherri: " Whoa...what's going on?"
Robin: " What all do you remember?"
Sherri: " Huh? Well, I was in my house doing some cleaning, and then everything went black. Then, I woke up in this strange place, talked with a guy with a long red scarf. I got knocked out again somehow, and here I am. What's going on..."
Robin: " Well, you were kidnapped by a man named Slade, just like I was."
Sherri: " A man named Slade? No no no...Slade is the guy my brother works for. He's his personal assistant...that can't be right."
Robin: " Sherri...was it?"
Sherri: " Yeah."
Robin: " Well...there's something we need to tell you..."
Starfire interrupted the conversation, remembering that Clive didn't want Sherri to know about his powers.
Starfire: " Slade is actually an aweful man. He tricked Clive into working for him."
Sherri: " Really? But what's the big deal? I mean, all my brother did was just take calls for him and did all his paperwork stuff."
Robin: " It's not that..."
Starfire: " Well, Clive...ummm..."
Robin pulled Starfire aside, realizing that she was obviously up to something. They spoke in very low whispers.
Robin: " Star, what's the matter?"
Starfire: " Clive said Sherri doesn't know about Slade or his powers...and did not want her to know, so she would not get mad or become sad."
Robin: " Well, I guess I can understand that...by the way, where is Clive?"
Starfire: " ...."
Robin: " What is it Star?"
Starfire: " Clive...is gone..."
Robin: " He's gone? Oh...I see..."
Starfire looked to the ground with a frown. Robin pat her on the shoulder to comfort her, then turned to Sherri, who was very confused.
Sherri: " You guys are the Titans. Robin, Cyborg, Starfire, and...uhh..."
Terra: " Terra. I'm new!"
Sherri: " Oh, cool. But what's going on? Where's my brother now?"
All the Titan's looked to each other for an answer to her question. Sherri's facial expression became one of extreme worry.
Sherri: " Please...tell me he's alright. Please? Starfire?"
Starfire couldn't bring herself to look Sherri in the eyes. She didn't want to be the bearer of bad news. Robin stepped in though.
Robin: " Sherri...we don't know what's happened to Clive...but no one has seen him since our disappearance."
Sherri: " ...I can't lose him now..."
Robin: " Don't worry. As soon as we take care of everything in the city, we'll start searching for Clive immediately."
Sherri: " Promise?"
Robin: " I promise."
Sherri nodded quietly, sighing lightly as the 5 of them continued back towards the surface. Robin took out his communicator, giving a check up on Raven and Beastboy.
Robin: " Hey! You guys there?"
Raven picked up on her communicator.
Raven: " Yeah, we're here."
Robin: " You alright?"
Raven: " Yes."
Robin: " So...what's the crowd doing?"
Raven: " They're in the shopping mall right now doing some petty theft. Atleast they're not hurting anyone yet..."
Robin: " Well...seal up the mall and don't let them out."
Raven: " I'll do what I can. I can keep them in, but those rifles they have may be too much for me to stop. But I'll slow them down."
Robin: " Good. We'll be there shortly."
Robin put his communicator away and lead his team out of the sewers. Finally, they had reached the surface and set down on the street.
Terra: " Ok Robin, what's the big plan?"
He took a moment to gather his thoughts and get his plan into words.
Robin: " Well...here's my idea. I need Starfire, Raven, and Beastboy to keep them preoccupied. I don't want to say it, but you'll have to act as decoys to draw their fire and lead them in a large open field. Once they're gathered together, Terra, you hit them with an earthquake to knock'em down, then me and Cyborg will keep them down."
Cyborg: " Works for me. What about her?"
The team looked back at the teary eyed teenage girl.
Robin: " We'd best keep an eye on her. Stay with her Terra."
Terra: " Not a problem!"
Robin took out his communicator once again and called up Raven. No answer came for a short while, until Beastboy's face showed up on the screen.
Beastboy: " What's up man?"
Robin: " Is Raven sealing the Mall?"
Beastboy: " Yeah. They haven't realized yet that it's...oh wait..."
A sudden explosion shook the building. Raven furrowed her brow a bit, tensing up as she struggled to keep the enemies within the structure.
Beastboy: " Ok Robin, what's the plan?"
Robin: " The 4 of us will be there shortly. You, Raven, and Starfire will herd the mob into the park across the street. Fly over head and let them shoot at you, but be careful that they don't hit you."
Beastboy: " Well duh...so then what?"
Robin: " Terra, Cyborg, and I will hit'm with everything we've got."
Beastboy: " Great! Then get here fast, I don't know how long Raven can keep this up."
Robin: " Alright then. Robin out."
He turned to the rest of the team afterwards, giving out his instructions.
Robin: " Cyborg, take Sherri and Terra to the park. Starfire, get to the mall and wait for my signal. I'll meet up with you guys at the park."
The Titan's dispersed. Starfire made her way to the Mall quickly, while Cyborg used his power mechanical joints to run with both Terra and Sherri in his arms. Robin was following him through the use of his grappling hook, swinging from building to building with ease. Starfire met up with Raven and Beastboy at the mall, and set down on the roof with them. The walls shook more as Raven held them in, but her powers were slowly starting to fail.
Starfire: " Raven, Beastboy, we must let them out and bring them over to the park."
Raven: " Alright."
Raven eased off of her powers, allowing the flood of criminals out. Beastboy took to the skies as an Eagle, while Raven and Starfire flew over head, shooting off bolts of energy to get the mobs attention. They returned fire, but because of the cover of the night, they were very hard targets to hit. The mob fired up into the sky and chased after the 3 flying Titans, following them right into the park. Finally, they were gathered in the right spot. Robin gave Terra the signal and she caused the ground to shake violently, knocking the criminals off their feet. On cue, Robin threw his sonic disk, arming it as it left his hand. Cyborg formed his sonic blaster, and just as he was about to fire it, the sonic disk caught fire and blew up prematurely. Cyborgs blast still went off and shook up some of the fallen escapee's, but that's about it. Robin glared outwards as a lone figure stood in front of the mob, dressed in a grey overcoat with a red scarf.
Robin: " Who are you?"
Smoke: " Smoke."
Robin: " Well you're about to get smoked here!"
Robin threw a pair of birdarangs in Smoke's direction. Before they could hit him though, they melted in midair and splattered on the ground. The pair charged each other and fought it out, using various martial arts styles. Smoke was much taller than Robin, but still carried his speed and strength as well. Robin was still formidable though, but didn't dare let Smoke land a solid hit as his hands were burning with fire.
The mob started to get up again, so the Titan's went to work trying to get them in combat so they wouldn't use their rifles. They were making a very slow progression against the crowd, but unfortunately for Robin, Smoke's abilities were far too skilled and powerful for his own. As the pair fought, Smoke made the temperature around them rise, until it was just too unbearable to be close to him. As Robin fought him, sweat was just draining out of his poors and causing his suit to bother him. His eyes began to burn and he felt very sensitive. But Smoke didn't seem to be bothered by it at all. Robin backed off for a moment, trying to cool off.
Smoke: " What's wrong Robin...can't take the heat?"
Robin: " What's sad is that I can fend you off and I don't have powers."
Smoke: " True, and for that, I applaud your efforts, but a real warrior comes into battle with all his strengths at the ready. In this case, mine is fire, as well as my fighting style."
Robin was trying to think of a way to fight off Smoke. He couldn't get close enough, and it seemed that if he used anything, Smoke would just melt it. Infact, Robin was sure Smoke was just being nice enough to not cause him to suddenly combust. The pair continued their duel while the other Titan's struggled against the mass of criminals. They formed a regimental firing squard, each just taking shots at the remaining 5. Terra and Raven used their respective powers to provide cover, while Starfire and Cyborg would take shots at the horde, trying to get them to back off. Beastboy couldn't even get close for fear of getting killed. And, since Robin seemed to be losing, it was becoming apparent that the Titans were going to lose. For once Robin lost to Smoke, that would leave the remaining Titans' backs facing him. Robin fought desperately, but finally, Smoke had enough.
Smoke: " You're pretty good Robin...but I'm tired of playing around. So if you'll excuse me, I'm gonna finish my job here."
Robin started to sweat profusely and constantly wiped his brow. The other titan's saw this and began to worry. And out of nowhere, Robin's utility belt exploded, knocking him down to the ground and singed his uniform. He got up slowly, and between the 2, the Titan's had nothing left.
But a darkness spread out over the area, encompassing the whole park. Everyone stopped, in awe of the sudden change. The Titan's tried to shine out lights to see, and once again, it failed.
Starfire: " The darkness has come back!"
Robin: " What is this?"
Cyborg: " This happened earlier!"
Raven: " Wait a moment, something is here..."
Beastboy: " Dude...I'm getting really creeped out."
Terra: " You're not the only one."
Smoke: " What is it now?"
No one heard anything as everything had become silent. Smoke broke the silence.
Smoke: " Stop playing this game Grey. It wasn't funny last time!"
Terra: " What are you talking about?"
Smoke: " Then are you guys doing this?"
Robin: " What's going on?"
Starfire: " Raven! Please inform us..."
Raven: " I...I..."
The sound of metal crushing and circuitry breaking filled the air, and then explosions rang out from all around. The darkness lifted as it did before, and there, standing in the midst of all the criminals was none of the than Clive. Everyone stared at him for a moment, taking in his sudden dramatic appearance. It was then that the Titans noticed that the high powered rifles had all been broken. The convicts also noticed quickly and began to flee, being quickly persued by the Titans. Clive approached Smoke, standing between him and Robin. Smoke narrowed his eyes at the sight of Clive.
Smoke: " Well now, this is an unexpected surprise."
Clive: " Who are you?"
Smoke: " Name's Smoke."
Clive: " Why's that?"
Smoke: " Because where there's Smoke, there's fire."
Clive: " Yeah yeah. Let's just do this."
Smoke advanced on Clive, jumping towards him with his fist extended and burning brightly. Clive ripped his guitar out of his shadow and countered Smoke's attack by smashing his hand with the insturment. Smoke reeled, but only slightly, taking a quick hop and kicking Clive in the temple, knocking him to the ground. Rolling away to safety, Clive got back and threw his guitar at Smoke, smashing him in the face with it and sending him back a few feet. When Smoke tried to get up, a huge black hand enveloped him, squeezing him tightly. Smoke caused his entire body to catch flame, but it didn't cause the hand to let him go. Clive frowned as his eyes began to glow with a pale blue light, much like Black's eyes. He let go of Smoke after a few more moments of squeezing the air out of him. Smoke fell to his hands and knees, catching his breath. He stood up straight afterwards.
Smoke: " Well now, aren't we benevolent."
Clive: " Get lost."
Smoke: " Perhaps I shall."
Smoke put his hands into his pockets and stared straight out at Clive. He pointed his middle and index fingers out to Clive like a gun and pulled it back like it had been fired. A small flicker of fire shot out and brushed against Clives face. Clive felt some Deja Vu in it, but didn't let it be seen. The pair stared each other down just a bit more, then Smoke disappeared in flames. Clive turned around after his match up to see all sorts of the escaped cons laying all over the ground. The police followed by soon after in large van loads. They spread out over the entire area, handcuffing and detaining those the Titan's had already dealt with.
Clive wandered the crowds in search of Sherri, wanting to see her with his own eyes. He scoured the area up and down, then found her by Terra, whom was giving her story to the police. Clive made a run for her on sight, wrapping his arms around her on contact. After realizing it was him, she did the same.
Clive: " Sherri, you're safe. Thank god..."
Sherri: " Clive! You're ok! No one knew what happened to you! I was so worried!"
Clive set her down and checked her over, making sure she was ok. After seeing that she didn't have any cuts or bruises, he stood up straight and sighed with relief.
Sherri: " Clive, what is going on? Why did all of this happen?"
Clive: " Sherri, there is a lot I've been keeping from you. That man I worked for, Mr. Slade...he was a terrible man and he had me do some terrible things. He asked me to do them, because...I have some abilities that I've never let you know about. Like, super powers and such. Slade had me use them for his purposes and for that, he would make sure we had rent money, insurance, food, and whatever else we needed that I couldn't make."
Sherri: " Is that true? What all did you do?"
Clive: " I stole some things, destroyed some things, terrorized the Titans on numerous occasions, freed hundreds of prisoners, and generally sucked overall."
Sherri sat there staring at him in some disbelief. The other titans had found them and were gathering to talk to the two of them, but watched as the events unfolded. Sherri teared up, looking down at the ground. Clive frowned, but then, she slapped him across the face, then turned red with some anger.
Sherri: " You jerk! You stupid stupid jerk! What were you thinking doing something like that? Huh?"
Clive: " Well I..."
Sherri: " That's right! You weren't thinking! You didn't think that I might worry about you! Or that all of this would happen! You could have killed someone! Please don't tell me that you've done that too!"
Clive: " Of course not Sherri...you know I...
She slapped him again across the cheek.
Sherri: " You're gonna get in deep trouble because of this! And did you ever take a moment to consider how I felt? Sure the bills are important, but so are my feelings!"
Clive: " All I can say is sorry Sherri. And that I'll fix this whole mess....I'm not sure how...but I'll do it."
A police officer came in and broke the pair up. Clive gave him a bit of resistance, not wanting to leave his younger sister's side. However, he cooperated and let the man handcuff him. He began to lead Clive out, but stopped so the other titans could talk with him for a moment.
Terra: " Hey dude...I'm glad you're alive."
Clive: " Well, dying just not my gig."
Terra: " Whatever happens, I want you to remember you owe me a rematch."
Clive: " Anytime, any place Terra."
Beastboy: " Dude, and when that happens, let me know so I can sell tickets and make a decent buck off it."
Clive: " You got it Beastboy."
Cyborg: " Hey man...thanks for all your help with the mess out here."
Clive: " I caused it, so I should have to fix it."
Cyborg: " Were you down in Slade's headquarters with us earlier?"
Clive: " Sorry, but I didn't wake up till about an hour ago. I guess it takes a little more than a building dropping to put me and Black out of business permanently."
Cyborg: " Well, see you round man."
Clive: " You too dude."
Cyborg made a fist and Clive gave it a good hit. Raven came up after the first three.
Clive: " Howdy."
Raven: " Yeah...thanks."
Clive: " Anytime."
Raven: " Can you answer me a question?"
Clive: " Shoot."
Raven: " Do you know why Black has a particular interest?"
Clive: " Why?"
Raven: " He say's he knows me...but I don't know him."
Clive: " Well...I'd ask him right now, but he's sleeping. See, even though he could take the whole damn building falling on him, that still hurts and can tucker someone out. Even him."
Raven: " I see...well thank you anyways."
Robin was next. Clive was a little unsure how this would go, considering he and the boy wonder had never exactly gotten along.
Robin: " Hey Clive...I want to thank you for helping me back there with Smoke."
Clive: " No problem. It was my pleasure. I love clown stomping."
Robin: " I also want to say I'm sorry for how I came off. You know, being a jerk and all."
Clive: " It's alright. You're just doing your job."
Robin: " Well...thanks for your help today."
Clive: " Glad I could be of service."
Robin walked off to talk to the police commissioner. Starfire was the last to approach Clive. Her face was awash with feelings of all kinds. Clive gave her his more light hearted grins to try and bring her spirits up.
Clive: " Hey Starfire, how are ya?"
Starfire: " I...I am fine."
Clive: " Those guys didn't hurt you did they?"
Starfire: " No, they did not. I am undamaged."
Clive: " Then what's wrong Starfire? You seem down?"
Starfire: " I...was worried about you."
Clive: " Oh...yeah. I'm sorry about that."
Starfire: " I am greatly relieved that you are alive."
Clive: " Well, I attribute it all to my hard head. Sherri always say's my heads harder than a rock, so I guess that it finally did me some good."
Starfire giggled a bit, feeling better. She smiled finally, then gave him a hug. The police man backed off, giving them the moment. Afterwards, she stepped back away from him.
Starfire: " What will you do now?"
Clive: " I've got a lot of crimes to answer for. As for Sherri...well I don't know what's going to happen to her. I'll do what I can for her though. I'll have Black keep an eye on her for me."
Starfire: " Truely an honorable thing you are doing."
Clive: " Well, it's the right thing to do."
Officer: " Time to go kid."
Clive: " Yeah yeah...I hear ya. Well Star, it's been fun. I'll try and write....maybe I'll even get to see ya again."
Starfire: " I would hope so. I wish you the best of the luck."
The officer led Clive back to his van and escorted him inside. Clive sassed him about the damaging the goods briefly as he got a pat down before getting inside. The Titans watched him get taken away, and afterwards, they regrouped. Some more police officers came in and picked up Sherri, taking her to a social security officer who would get her into a new home.
Robin: " Any thoughts guys?"
Cyborg: " Well, I hate to see him go."
Terra: " Me too."
Beastboy: " Me three."
Starfire: " Is there anything we can do?"
Raven: " Doubtful. But this is the best path he could have chosen. Atleast this way, his punishment won't be quite as bad."
Robin: " Yeah. You're right. Well guys, let's go. It's late and I'm tired.
Cyborg: " Amen."
The Titan's began to leave the park, walking back to the tower at a slow marchlike pace. Clive turned around in his seat and took one last look to the Titans, and smiled as Starfire turned his way for one last look.
Clive: " Well, till we meet again Angel."
