Disclaimer: I don't own the Teen Titans. I only own the plot and the original characters.
Just a few notes: Thanks to Blackheart, Peppermint, and many others for the reviews. I appreciate it. As for why this story has few reviews, well I don't know maybe nobody likes the concept or the writing itself.
I haven't updated for a while because just recently (June 28), I turned 20 and celebrated it with my friends Coke and Jack Daniels (haha).
In addition to that, I saw a great documentary called Farenheight 9/11. Of course my birthday wish didn't come true (it involved Jessica Alba tied with a red ribbon bow haha!) but oh well, only one more year before I can legally gamble.
Without further ado, here is chapter six:
Time after Eternity
The stars crowded together in interest, looking down at the human's festivities. Every apartment building in Galensberg was filled with rowdy happiness only made possible through the gift of Alcohol. With every swarm of celebrators, there were several law enforcers who controlled any possible outrage. Occasionally, several party goers would raise the bar in their antics, and was rewarded with military street justice. Either way, whether it is the guards armed with swords and shields, or the conscious-deprived party animals, one thing is sure: Tonight is indeed an action-oriented evening.
Meanwhile from outside a popular restaurant, an exhausted waitress leans against the wall, enjoying every sip of her alcoholic beverage. She feels a cold chill gust from the corner, causing goose bumps to rise all over her exposed legs. The men walking by took a liking to the relaxing waitress' short black blouse but a simple, silent flaring look redirected the perverted intentions to another pretty face. The young female rubbed the fatigue off her eyes, absorbing the pleasant feeling from touching the delicate pink locks. She found it very funny that a mere self-caress (of the hair that is) can be quite therapeutic.
Jinx chuckled, taking another swig of her beer, "I just found out a way to save hundreds of dollars in stress-relieving costs."
She remained upright, locking on the sight of a tipsy individual who just got smacked right in the face by an unseen sword hilt. She rolled her eyes at the idiot's decision to streak across in front of three armored guards. Strangely enough, this scene of alcohol-induced chaos reminded her of Jump city at New Years. The town of Galensberg could be the closest replica to her old town, as the place was structured like an old-fashioned urban jungle.
There were even vehicles (old looking model T's) sprinting throughout the streets. There were stores, street lights, and lavish homes. The only noticeable differences were the lack of central-air, and that many citizens still relied on horses for transportation. After spending the last couple weeks at two technology deprived cities, she couldn't help but feel relieved at the place. Jinx remained staring at the scene, not bothering to look at the person coming out the front.
She already knew who it is and greeted her in a bubbling fashion, "I hope you know that I am still mad at you."
Kris sighed, also wearing the same identical outfit like her companion; the only difference is that her hair is swaying freely barely down the shoulders. It seems that wearing a bandanna is against work policy but that didn't stop her from enticing customers with her appearance. Though she had to deal with the perverted looks and comments from the guy customers (even after inflicting some major pain to a person who thought her ass was part of a petting zoo), giving up the orange head cloth benefited her financially.
After enduring a minute of uncomfortable silence, Kris gave up, "Hey! I am sorry okay! How was I supposed to know that all the prices increased here? Gee, you buy a couple of clothes and end up dirt poor having to work as a waitress in the end."
Jinx corrected her vivacious friend, "A couple? Let's see what you bought today: Three bras and panties, 4 dresses, and 3 shirts?"
"Okay, so it was more than a "couple." But hell, let's talk about you! I am not the one who purchased two pairs of long black pants and a blue long sleeved sweater for 500 g!"
The feline eyed woman retorted, "I don't want people ogling me with that skin revealing outfit you gave me when I woke up."
"Then how are you going to attract the men?" Kris wondered out loud.
Jinx wiped the sweat dropped, "Maybe… I don't want male attention."
Kris giggled softly, "What about the women?"
Jinx gave her a glare that immediately caused a defensive apology, "Heh… Sorry Jinx, I didn't mean to offend you. I was just kidding."
The hex mystic saw that the street party was starting to die down, many of the folks stumbling back to their houses. The lights started to dim, and the restaurant owner came out the door, congratulating the two new employees on a job well done. As the man walked off, the two began to walk towards the hotel, counting their tips.
Jinx felt a twinge of jealously, comparing her stack with the other, which was horribly mismatched. If she had the tolerance that Kris inherited, Jinx would be making just as much. Maybe that tolerance would have been handy earlier, right before she decided to throw several hex waves at very touchy customers.
But still, something nagged her within. It was the information Kris revealed about her powers, and didn't know whether it hinted as a possible crush, act of lust or even love. If it is correct, Jinx had to end this immediately; she felt a sisterly connection with her companion, and felt very uncomfortable at the idea of a female lover.
She stared at the hazel skinned beauty with her light pink eyes. Jinx studied her every feature from the long black hair to the curves being hugged by the waitress outfit. The girl fought back an embarrassing blush creeping on her face, meanwhile trying to understand the pounding mystery of Kris' words.
Jinx had to know, and know now, asking Kris before she turned the key to the room, "Wait Kris, can I ask you something?"
The island woman's chocolate orbs dilated in concern, "What's the matter? If it is about the money, I don't know how many times I can apologize!"
"No, No I am over that. I…I was wondering… what you meant by that comment earlier." She was too nervous to actually come out and say it directly, so she figured Kris already knew about it.
It was not easy for Jinx though, as confusion decided to possess the girl's face, "What comment Jinx? You mean the one about the guy and his large hands?"
"Not that! The last thing you said about your powers, remember?"
Kris suddenly found the floor design very interesting, she felt trapped in mind and body. Physically there was no way to escape this, and mentally, she had to think of something to say. "I don't know what to think. Maybe I was a little lonely, and seeing that astral reflex just reminded me so much…"
Gradually she laughed and patted Jinx's shoulder, "I didn't mean anything by it. I usually freak many of my friends out by letting that information spill. I find the people's reactions priceless; it was for shits and giggles. Besides I bet curiosity would have nagged you about it sooner or later."
The pink haired female could not but feel duped by the response, though she didn't show it, "Okay… I am sorry; it's just a little weird."
The island girl turned the key to the door, nodding without looking at her companion, "I understand, besides back in your time there is probably a guy waiting for you, and knowing how long you have been out, he needs YOU badly." She teased her friend, by doing a familiar male-related one arm gesture.
If one were to look up the word blush in the dictionary, they would see a picture of Jinx's face, "I…I… No! It's not like that… I don't have a boyfriend."
Kris gasped; the words interrupted the process of getting into her night clothes, "You are kidding right? When you first walked outside in Taman, wearing that black top and skirt combination, I know at least 5 men who were interested. Well they were, until they witnessed your little fight, then the passion became fear. Fear, especially because they were thinking solely with their heads and not with their brains."
"Really? From my fight alone?" Jinx didn't believe it for a second.
"Okay you caught me; I also told them that you were associated with me and Abel, so they backed off."
The girl blinked in uncertainty, "Uh… thank you? Anyway, that is exactly the reason why I don't want to wear so called "inviting" clothing. Men are wolves who see every girl as a possible conquest so they can add it on their record."
Kris chuckled at the philosophical insight, "Hmm… I guess, but remember that in this world, if you look hard enough, you will evidently find a cute, cuddly, sheep disguised in wolf's clothing."
"Wait… isn't it the other way around?"
The brunette let out a yawn before collapsing on her bed, "Whatever… In my opinion, you have nothing to be self-conscious about; you are a beautiful girl, show it off to the world…"
Sitting on her own bed, Jinx was lucky it was pitch black; otherwise the girl would have seen her blushing face. Actually, the blush was so bad, that she covered her face in fear the redness would set off a highly distracting glow. The girl tied back her pink bangs, staring directly at the darkness above, surrendering to sleep.
--9999.99—
"Alright girls, since it is the last day of the festival, consider this your last day as an employee. I thank you for filling in temporary; the restaurant ran smoothly during the rush. Now go out and attend a party or something. I heard there is one being held at the Manor. I bet if you two can get in if you found the right threads." replied the cheery owner.
The word party is defined as excitement in Kris' mind, "A party at the Manor! You really think we are good enough to go to an event that extravagant?"
The owner scratched the back of his head, "You two meet the requirements of a pretty female. Just add some good clothes and it should be a shoe-in." A thought sparked his brain, "Right, I forgot to give your last paychecks. Here, use it for a dress or something."
Jinx humbly accepted the envelope of paper currency, shocked at the amount inside. It wasn't the same dollar bills in her time, but it only took a short time to figure out the costs and prices of goods. She smiled back at the man, "I have to say that despite the constant food smell on my clothes and the touchy feely customers, it has been a pleasure working for you."
"Mention nothing of it; now go to the party unless you want me to stay and listen to me sing on the good old karo…."
The two former waitresses looked at each other, and then scrambled their way out the door, waving at the nice person while running as if a piece of raw meat was attached to their legs with large hounds trailing behind ravenously. The owner didn't help but feel his spirits lower, "Shit, it's not that bad."
--9999.99—
The music blared out down the streets, and wavy, silhouettes pranced about in the windows. The gigantic house stood over like a sneering, haunting shadow from a faraway distance. Neatly rowed vehicles acted like obstacles to the everyday pedestrian.
The atmosphere was filled with tipsy laughter coupled with a few ounces of sexual frenzy. Women and men of all sizes and ages, leapt into the dance floor, performing the ritual mating calls involving their hips and a glass of champagne. The place was already packed as it is; the amount of feet present prevented anyone from figuring out the floor's texture and color. The manor that rocked the underground Earth plates added two more delicious souls to the process.
And as these two girls waltz into the party environment, their eyes wide from the loud music and bright blinking lights, the already full house evolved slightly to accommodate their presence.
"Yeah this is what I am talking about!" yelled the petite brunette girl. She was wearing a one piece, seductive black dress that sent out wave after wave of temptation throughout the room.
Her companion gawked at the brunette's attitude; this was the first girl who actually wanted to be admired as an object. Many girls at the HIVE couldn't stand that thought, many of which look down at woman who participated in men's admiration. Kris' bubbly personality was a first in her lifetime.
Jinx shook out her dazing upon noticing that some of the people's looks were aimed at her. She reddens a bit, predicting that her moonlight blue short dress acted like a beacon of desire, manipulating the eyes of both men and women alike. A waiter walked by the girls holding six champagne glasses on a plate, well make that five glasses. Jinx gulped down the drink, "Well, I guess it's only a matter of time before I have to try out my networking skills. The best time is now."
Combined with her grey skin, pink lavish long hair, and the blue skimpy dress, Jinx looked like a vampire succubus that is a horror writer's fantasy. She slithered back to her partner, her mind taken over by the music, and danced without a care in time and space.
--9999.99—
Kris staggered over to the corner with Jinx, still feeling the buzzing effects of the many drinks flowing in her bloodstream. The time was around 2 in the morning, but the event was nowhere near its end. The two girls conversed to themselves, occasionally laughing at the men who threw out every single pick line imaginable towards a group of girls, only to receive a shoulder cold enough to start a mini Ice Age.
The men retreated in defeat, not before looking back at Jinx and Kris. Her strawberry eyes burned a hole into their souls, keeping them reminded of the painful slap (painful is just an understatement. The person flew off their feet) that one of them experienced earlier.
The music still blared on, that is until the people shouted and cheered; the people's vocal waves combined together, drowning out the dance music. Jinx was confused at what was currently unfolding, and nervously followed the retreating friend into the cloud of people.
As Kris jumped up and down, raising her hand, Jinx looked at the front and saw a young man between the eighteen through 21 age bracket, enjoying a glass of crystalline wine in his hand. The man inherited a nice pair of blue jewel eyes, perfectly structured with his combing brown hair.
Jinx started to wince as the sounds of screeching harpies echoed throughout the room in approval of the young man. She stared at the sallow suited individual, assuming that he was the owner of the manor.
The girl felt a tug on her shoulder. She turned around to meet face to face with Kris, "Oh right Jinx you don't know. You see that banner over there."
The pink carnation eyes studied the grey wolf's head symbol as her friend continued, "That is Galensberg's flag. Elder Teresa told me that this city used to be allied with Saint Marie during the empire wars. When Saint Marie's power dissipated a bit, they could no longer aid Galensberg with funds, food, or even protection. This caused the city to plunge into inner-city chaos; the pro-supporters of the Saint Marie army were driven out the place, and political factions raged for different reform ideas, which caused a destructive environment. Over time, food shortages loomed over them, and since defenses were down, wild beasts easily broke through the city. It seemed blight, when suddenly; a white alpha wolf and others suddenly raided the area. But instead of attacking the helpless citizens, they brutally killed off the beasts, saving not only the entire city, but an important future visionary. This person eventually welcomed the wolves, housing and feeding them whenever possible. In return, the wolves constantly roamed the streets, becoming protectors until the city got back on its feet. That is why they have this festival; it is to honor the wolf and the owner who passed away but still influenced the future of this town."
Jinx nodded as Kris pointed to the young man on the pedestal, "He is the great grandson of the prophet who resurrected the city from the dead. He is elected as a leader by association."
The sounds of applause dimmed when the formal suited man raised his glass, "How is everyone tonight? Are you having fun?"
The crowd responded with a howling agreement, and waited until the person continued to speak, "We are here tonight to celebrate my ancestor's undying determination to bring this city to the right direction! Never will we ever go back in Saint Marie's shackles! I know that some criticize my plans because of minor financial setbacks, but do not despair, we will return back to glory just like the past!"
With another sip of champagne, the manor released a second wave of merriment and then hushed noticing their leader desired to speak once again, "Before we party so hard that the moon will run away to a more silent place, I would like to bring out two important people that played a major role in keeping Galensberg stable: My wife Sofia, and my best friend Baron!"
Two spotlights directed on both sides revealed a red-headed sexy young female bearing an eloquent red dress, and a tall, black bearded man wearing a grey suit. The woman gave the crowd a small smirk, flailing about her pig tails as she moved to hug her husband. The other guy made his way greeting and thanking the couple.
Jinx had to cover her ears from the loud wall of sound bombarding the surroundings. The happy mood escaladed in magical proportions; the girl could see (with the help of a couple alcoholic drinks) the happiness surrounding the fellow townsfolk. It was indeed a relaxing sight to see, especially when just recently she supposedly disappeared from her timeline.
With another raised hand, the leader finished the speech with a few words, "So for everyone in Galensberg, remember that the only weakness is in the mind! Destroy any mental inconsistencies and anything is…"
A shroud of surprise hit every listener, as the person's words were cut short by a series of loud, brash accusations, "Traitors! Your entire family is full of traitors! You sold your pride to the devils in exchange for prosperity! Sin! Sin I say! The Saint Marie Empire will never forgive you and your debauchery born she-wolves!"
At that moment, the atmosphere turned from cheery to sour.
The guests turned to the source of the voice, noticing a withered, white bearded man accompanied by two white wolves at the doorway. He looked like a figure straight from a horror movie: the pale, colorless skin showing scars from the enemy called age, the hair sprouting out like an arachnid's legs convulsing in immediate pain. The clothes matched those from a weathered scarecrow.
Nobody would be surprised if the frayed rags known as clothing were actually stolen from a nearby straw figure. The party goers began to retreat backwards, not from the man, but afraid to be within a wolf's striking distance just in case he decides to attack.
The leader spoke firmly into the mike, "Guards, remove him from the premises."
Jinx and Kris were roughly shoved to the side by a group of heavily armored knight looking warriors appearing behind the curtains, surrounding the unknown protestor in an arc formation.
The burning eyes from the homeless looking man never faltered, but decided to leave on his own, "Afraid to accept the truth eh sonny? Well, just remember that those who are tainted deserve to burn!"
With those final words, the mysterious stranger ran off into the night, catching glares from nearby guards to insure that he left the manor property.
Silence captured the bodies of the party goers; there were expressions of uncertainty, fear, and doubt. This went on for a few minutes, until Sofia put on her best sparkling-encrusted smile towards the large group, "Come on everyone! We are supposed to be partying so let's continue this all night festivity shall we?"
The speakers shouted out tunes of fast, step-addicting beats, and soon after the atmosphere returned to its carefree self. Kris broke Jinx's trance, offering the hex mystic another glass of champagne. She happily accepted the glass, but couldn't shake off the man's threaten words. She felt worried, though the feeling disappeared as her arm was dragged off, courtesy of a certain brown-skinned girl.
--9999.99—
"Ow…what is with all the shaking?" The hazel eyed owner whined when constant tugging interrupted her rest.
Jinx slowly started to doze off while standing, "Come on Kris, the party is over. Everyone is leaving. There is a convoy giving out free rides to the guest. Hurry up, let us go to the hotel."
Staggering up slowly, the intoxicated girl brushed off the dirt (food, and some splashes of alcohol) on her black dress. Kris started to walk forward… oops… that is collapse forward.
Luckily for her, Jinx exerted enough motion to catch her friend. Sighing, she began walking outside, shooting a hex bolt at the convoy truck's door to ensure they had enough time to get inside.
Once inside the bus, she found the nearest empty seat and dropped the island girl after taking the window side space. Jinx started to accept the sandman's sand, and unexpectedly just like coffee; her eyes bolted open, immediately looking at her side. The sorceress stifled a giggle at the sight of Kris: she decided to use Jinx's shoulder as a pillow, her mouth gaping open letting drool drip downward like a faucet while the long brown hair moved to position itself in front of the eyelids.
The pink haired woman wanted to wake Kris up, but decided against it. As the bus door closed and the engine ignited to life, Jinx focused her sights through the translucent glass, noticing the young host heading into an expensive vehicle. The host led his friend into the car door, waving to Sofia before opening the driver's side.
Jinx smiled, "Oh a designated driver too? Wow, he sure extends his services."
--9999.99—
"Hey man thanks for the ride, sorry I…I missed the convoy ride." stuttered the drunken passenger.
The leader waved off the thanks, sitting down into the seat with keys in hand, "Hey no problem, I can't let my friend walk home by himself. Besides, Sofia got mad at you last time for blowing chunks all over the rug."
Both individuals laughed at the past memory, and the car roared from a key's turn.
The young man was about to close the door, when a white speeding blur squirmed through the small space, landing on top of his lap.
He gasped at the sight of a pure snow fur wolf licking his cheek. The young man skipped a beat, wondering if this was the dog owned by the creepy ragged man. The wolf turned its head, revealing a red collar under the thick mane.
This trinket relaxed his nerves, "Ah you are part of my pack. How did you get out huh boy?"
He placed the lone wolf in the back seat, "Well, let us first take him home and then I will put you back with your friends."
The door slammed close, and slowly started to drive off. The remaining stars in the sky stood in their seat, watching their movie unfold. Like all good films, an unexpected climax was thrown in, shaking the viewer's nerves into utter astonishment.
With no individuals around, only the stars witnessed the tragedy firsthand.
The stars were the first to gasp.The stars were the first to weep softly.
But what caused the silent cries? It was the sight of the car exploding into a conglomerate of fiery reds and oranges; the metal melted from the interior inferno, blowing apart the piercing pieces of metal and glass. As the engine reacted to the heat, only the stars shuddered when the fireball rose up, inciting the loud explosion that finally caught the human's attention.
--9999.99—
BOOOOOOMMMM!!!
The bus driver slammed on the brake pedal, tires screeching hot rubber, causing the now sleepy Kris to awaken thanks to a head shot to the rubber seat.
Jinx didn't fare too well either; it seems that getting a window side seat has some disadvantages. Everyone wondered what happened, anger shot at the driver, but the driver paid no head to the passengers. He stood breathless, staring at the back window.
Kris whined, "Damn is it morning already? Stupid driver… say Jinx you have any of those… uh… Jinx? What is it?"
The girl's heart was stabbed at the sight of Jinx's feline eyes: there were filled with grief, pain, and denial: similar to the look from the previous nightmare.
Her worried increased to the point where Kris literally shook her friend back and forth, until Jinx was able to face her, "What's wrong?"
The passengers suddenly panicked, running out the bus and like ants, made their way into the Manor's direction.
Kris found her arm grabbed by the girl's grey ash hand, and dragged out the buss in the weak darkness. The sprint increased, "Jinx! I demand to know… what is…" The girl's vocal cords lost its ability to express emotions when she saw black, reddish smoke from a distance.
"Oh no! What happened!" asked the tan skinned woman with tears beginning to cloud her eyes.
The tone was firm, anger seeping through every word, "A bombing attack. Let us hope he's still alive."
Author Note: Thanks for those who review! Constructive Criticism accepted!
