Lifeline
beepbeep
(LAST CHAPTER. PLEASE READ THIS NOTE: Hi, this is a VERY LONG chapter so please bare with me, and (whispering) bring a tissue. Just kidding. This chapter wraps everything up. Please bare with me here I swear this is the longest chapter I've ever made and hopefully you'll understand why it took so long. .
MY MOST SENSERE APOLOGIES BUT THE NEW FANFICTION WORD PROCESSOR HATES ME THEREFORE I CANNOT MAKE THE LIFELINE MARKS (EHICH ARE IN THE ORIGINAL) APPEAR. MY DEPEST APOLOGIES (crying eyes out as I write )
Lifeline
"A Lifeline worth holding on to"
"Robin, Cyborg I would like to introduce Mistdar. Mistdar these are Cyborg and Robin, Koriand'r's friends."
Both titan's eyes widened as they saw the woman. This was definitely NOT who they were expecting to see, this woman looked between her late thirty's or early forty's. Her long light violet hair hung loosely down her shoulders. She wore a long magenta dress that went all the way to her ankles but barely covered her shoulders. This was no old woman all right, she was beautiful. After properly inspecting both titans Mistdar smiled warmly at them.
"A pleasure to meet both of you" Her voice was soft and paused like Starfire's.
"A pleasure to meet you too." Answered Cyborg instinctively raising his hand to shake hers. The woman stared curiously at the hand been offered to him, he heard Kai clear his throat and his mechanical arm came down immediately.
"Curious way of greeting people, please do forgive me this is my first time on Earth." The woman bowed her head gracefully in a saluting manner. She observed Robin, he seemed to be awfully quiet.
"Do you speak?" She asked the boy, Robin blushed at the question and looked down.
"Yes. Welcome to earth"
"You are the young gentlemen in Koriand'r's heart. Are you not?"
"Yes Mistdar he is" The woman's smile never faltered.
"Kai, I believe the boy can speak for himself"
"Yes madam I believe I am" He made sure his voice sounded sure of himself.
"Wondrous... I wish to see my daughter now please" Both Titan's ears grew a few inches when they heard the term she used for Star. Mistdar, catching their wondering gazes decided to explain. After all it wasn't correct to be impolite with her hosts. "Do not be so surprised when I call...Starfire you call her? My daughter, she may not be my biological daughter but I raised her. I love her as such and she is to me my daughter"
"Mistdar, Robin was the one to suggest the possible cure. And Cyborg is a miracle physician" Both boys blushed slightly at Kai's introduction.
"I thank you both for taking care of her. You are good friends indeed, her love for you is not miscarried."
"We're just trying to help" Cyborg smiled back politely at the woman. He didn't know why but it scared the hell out of him to think of getting on her bad side. He had a weird feeling about her, like she wasn't all she said she was.
"Thank you for coming, I know it must have been a tiring journey" Apologized Robin trying to be polite.
"I should be thanking you for having the courage of asking me for help. The journey is irrelevant, I am glad she has such wonderful friends" Her voice had changed, it wasn't the half icy polite voice she had just used seconds ago. Now it was warmer, calmer. The boys led the woman down the roof and into Titan's tower.
beep beep
"Friends have you seen Robin or Cyborg?" Said Starfire as she sat down, a mug in hand.
"They were here just a second ago. Robin said he had something he had to do and Cy just followed him."
"Perhaps they went out, I am glad... perhaps you should go out as well Beast Boy, you have been here for such a long time" Beast boy looked at his friend's pale and weak smile. It didn't matter how tired that smile got, it always had the same effect. Though he adored one of those smiles Raven sometimes gave him. Star's attempt to get him out of the house was amusing.
"No Star I'm fine really." The movement of black hair diverted their attention.
"Plus last time he went out he almost made a dog house his home" Beast boy and Star sweat dropped as they watched the purple eyed sorceress flip pages.
"NO I DID NOT! It was an accident that dum...Wait how did you know that?"
"Right, I'm sure the dog's owner wasn't very happy about it wanting to 'mate' with you"
"IT WAS AN ACCIDENT! It shouldn't be mentioned again, it wasn't my fault, the dumb dog just came over and...!"
"I'm sure he did" A flash of hurt crossed his eyes, causing Raven to regret her comment. Old habits were hard to break. Understanding the apologetic expression of Raven's face Star placed a hand on her green friend's shoulder.
"Do not worry Beast boy, Raven was just been her usual loving self." Star smiled one of her 'angelic' smiles that she reserves for when she teased. Raven's eyebrow shot up.
"Watch it Starfire" The emerald-eyes titan giggled lightly.
"Y'all ready to behave? After all we have visitors" Three pairs of eyes turned to the door where the voice had come from, their eyes widening when they saw the two visitors. Starfire sat up, not minding the cup that slipped from her fingers or the liquid that spilled on the floor. She walked not floated closer to the door determined to make sure her eyes weren't playing tricks on her.
She watched as the violet haired woman took a step closer to her, Mistdar's eyes widened at the sight of the girl before her. Her frail body looked so battered and tired, her life energy so low. Her round healthy face was so thin, the circle sunder her eyes spoke of the countless nights she had laid awake on her bed. She woman took another stop forward but instead of walking closer to her nana Starfire stepped back. Her eyes spoke of shock, fright, and nervousness.
Star looked down at the floor, she wrapped her arms around herself, like she used to when she was little. Suddenly Mistdar took several steps forward embracing the girl with all her strength. To everyone's shock Starfire cried out a "No" before trying to struggle out of her arms. "Koriand'r darling please" The woman's voice sounded so thin and afraid. The struggle proved in vain when she finally relaxed in her arms and allowed the woman to hold her. Tears ran down her face, she hadn't wanted her nana to see her like this, she didn't.... she didn't.
beepbeepbeep
"So Robin called us and asked for Mistdar to visit earth" Finished Kai.
"You promised you would not come back" Starfire whispered.
"I am so sorry but I could not go back and do nothing when I know my sister is here dying"
"You promised!"
"You owed me a broken promise, remember the earthquake?" Star was feeling dizzy her 'brother' had broken their promise, her nana was here and Robin had been the one to call them. She didn't know whom she was angrier at, Robin, her family or herself.
"We were very worried about you, you could not have expected me to just leave you here!" Explained Mistdar.
"Why not! It would not be the first time" Star remembered the days after her brother had died, she had been alone then; Mistdar hadn't been able to leave her priestess responsibilities, not even for the death of her brother and his wife. "I asked you to remain in Tamaran for a reason, why did you disobey me?" She waited for a reply from Kai but instead Robin spoke.
"Because I asked him to. Star you don't understand there may be a way to cu"
"Stop it! I am the one that will die Robin, it is time you begin to understand that. There is no cure that may work, calling them was the worst possible thing!"
"Why? Because you didn't want to see your real family anymore?" Mistdar raised her hand up motioning to Kai to stop talking nonsense.
"Kai can you not understand? You are still a child, you have already seen more death in your lifetime than so many people. The last thing I wanted was for you to see mine, I did not want you to see me dying in a bed... I am so tired of all this"
In one fluent movement Mistdar's hand made contact with Star's pale cheek. Her hand rose to touch the aching spot, it hadn't hurt much she'd made sure it was a very light slap but it still hurt. In a micro second Robin was standing defensibly between Star and Mistdar.
"Don't you dare touch her!" Robin's voice sounded sharp and dangerous. A ball of dark energy surrounded Mistdar but just as fast as it formed it disappeared, leaving the titans dumb folded. Raven, Cyborg and Beast Boy ran to their friend's side just in time to watch the cold graceful Mistdar loose control.
"Stupid, stupid child. Do you not think we have suffered enough for you to be with this nonsense. You are sick, but you still insist on carrying the burden all by yourself. Not letting anyone inside to help you, you have always shared everything Koriand'r. Everything but your pain, it is time you stop acting like a child and stop been so selfish"
Starfire blinked, once, twice, three times but nothing really came. A look of pure horror fell upon the older woman's eyes when she saw the thin stream of tears sliding down the girl's cheek. And the bitter smile that masked her face.
"Selfish?.... not wanting to see the people I love hurt is not selfish.... I do not know why you are here or if the only true reason you came was to yell at me. I do not know what possible cure you may have in mind, all I know is that my wishes have not been respected. Excuse me"
With those last words Starfire stood up and disappeared into the dark hallways of the tower. Yearning for the comfort and privacy of her own room and leaving the people in the lounge death stricken.
beep
Robin entered the darkness of the small room. It had taken a while but their guests where settled in and the possible cure had been properly discussed. He'd yearned to come and check on her sooner but Mistdar had strictly forbidden him to do so and had even threatened to leave if her wishes were not made.
It was understandable Mistdar was worried about her but the woman could be as cold as ice, he couldn't imagine what it would have been like for sweet, warm Star to be raised by her. Robin watched his angel peacefully sleep on her bed, her head the right side up for a change. Her head resting on the pillow. He dared come closer, she was laying on her side, her hands close to her face and legs bent, the position he'd learned she took every time she was scared or sad. The last sun rays allowed him to see the dry tear trails on her cheeks. He felt his blood boil when he saw the purple mark on her pale cheek.
Mistdar's hand had left a bruise on her delicate skin. Her crying must have tired her to sleep. Had he really done the right thing by calling them and going against Star's wishes? He touched her cheek lovingly, unconsciously Star leaned toward the warm touch. He smiled and ran a hand gloveless hand down her arm. He felt how cold she was so he reached for the blanket beside her and covered her with it. However Starfire turned around and scooped closer to the warm thing which she knew it must be Robin. After four months of having him sleeping beside her, her unconscious mind had gotten used to leaning toward him once he got close.
She nuzzled closer to him, her hands gripping his chest. Robin gave in and began stroking her back. He knew she was angry at him for calling them but what was he to do? He had to talk to her. Explain to her why he'd done it. She wrapped an arm around his waist bringing him as close to her as possible.
"I love you" Whispered Robin into her ear.
"'ove yu too" She mumbled sleepily, Robin smiled, knowing it was a subconscious phrase. He kissed her cheek softly and began stroking her cheek.
"You must hate me eh, I don't blame you. I went against your wishes... I had no right to but... (sigh) you know seven months ago I would have never believed it even if someone had told me that I would be holding you in my arms and watch you sleep I would have thought they were crazy, I would have just said I wasn't that lucky." He took one long breath, inhaling the scent of her hair. "This is gonna sound completely corny Star, but I can't live without you... I just can't. You mean too much to me, I can't sleep without you anymore... told ya it would sound corny... you said I had to lean to face your illness, but what if I can't? What if I don't choose to? I need you too much, I lost my parents already. I'm not loosing you, you hear me, even if I have to move oceans, mountains or planets. You are not leaving me Star, I won't let you... and you're not listening to anything I'm saying cause your asleep" He let out a deep desperate sigh.
The boy wonder hid his face on her shoulder completely trying his hardest not to cry. Suddenly he felt the arm around his waist tighten and her grip becoming firmer.
"I 'o not want to loose you either my 'ove" Robin's head was ready to leave her shoulder and stare into her still half asleep eyes but Star kept a firm lock of his neck keeping him from turning. "Shh, Robin please listen to me." Her sleepy voice turning normal "I do no hate you, I could never hate you...."
'So she's been awake that long" Thought Robin surprised. "I love you, always remember that. But I did not want them to come for a reason... I am afraid of what Mistdar will say. We had never quite gotten along, she wanted me to take over for her in the temple. Instead I became a warrior and went against her wishes, she has been quite upset with me for a long time. And now this..." Robin felt wet tears on his neck he held her closer.
"Everything's going to be all right Star. I'm sure she doesn't care about that anymore, we were discussing a cure procedure. It's risky but Cyborg believes there's a 52% chance of success"
"Do you sincerely believe it will work?"
"Yes" Starfire broke into one of her beautiful full smiles.
"Then I will do whatever is necessary" Robin held her in a tight hug, praying to whoever was listening to make it work.
"Thank you, so you forgive me?"
"I already had"
(Dream mode)
"Brother I do not understand!"
A black haired man with green eyes looked at his little sister with a worried expression.
"You do not have to Starfire, this is just the way it is"
"Should I not be able to choose the fate I want!" She yelled, not caring if the other priestesses heard.
"And what fate is this?"
"I wish to be a warrior like you"
"A warrior? Star Fire listen to me, been a warrior is not only devastating for your soul but it is very heartbreaking as well. You are not the kind to inflict pain in others, the duties of a warrior sometimes depend on the harsh attitude. I do believe this is truly the fate you want"
The short red haired girl kneeled down and rested her hands on his lap.
"Brother, my entire life I have watched people get hurt because of the incompetence of others. The only ones keeping peace are the warriors now, the war is only getting worse, I do not want to fight but I wish to help civilians. Is that so wrong of me? Is that a reason for Mistdar to insult me so?"
"Of course it is not darling" The voice belonged to a woman, a blue long haired woman with a smile as radiant as the sun. Starfire smiled at her beloved sister in law. She watched her brother grow more content with her mere presence.
"It is not wrong my sister but please do understand, you have the purest heart she has ever seen. She does not want you to come to harm"
"She will not Ryand'r, she is strong and pure. No matter what she does she will always succeed because of the warmth she carries within her. No one in the right mind will ever let her come to harm"
Star smiled gratefully at her sister. Not truly believing she was all she'd said but hoping she was.
'No one shall let you come to harm'
KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK
"Come in" The door slipped open revealing a tall violet haired woman standing before her. Starfire sat up, trying to look as strong as possible. "Mistdar"
"Koriand'r, how are you feeling?"
"Fine thank you" The reply lacked warmness. The older woman entered the room, taking the time to take in her surroundings. Her eyes falling on the pile of stuffed animals.
"You have not changed your likings I see"
"I enjoy collecting them" She tried to sound as icy as possible.
"Ah, the pleasures of been as far away from home and responsibilities"
'Here we go again' Thought Starfire angrily. She was tired enough as it was she had tried getting out of bed sooner but her legs weren't cooperating with her today. She wasn't in the mood for a lecture.
"Mistdar if you have come to lecture me about me past decisions and my 'selfishness' I must ask you to leave for I am not in the mood to be lectured about my irresponsibility"
"I have not come to lecture you child" Mistdar closed in on the bed, she spotted a dark patch of skin in her left cheek, the same cheek she had slapped the day before. She held her soft delicate hand up to her chin and tilted her head so she could get a better look at the bruise. She hadn't hit her hard, she was sure of it, it had merely been the weight of the hand but it had still caused a bruise.
"I did this... I apologize" The emerald eyed titan didn't respond but continued looking straight ahead until Mistdar's hand left her chin. "Koriand'r I never meant to hurt you" Star sighed a sigh of defeat, it seemed he prayers that she'd leave soon were not going to be answered.
"Mistdar I am sorry I went against you wishes, I am sorry I never took the temple like you wanted me to. Or that I never quite become the young respectable lady you wanted me to become, you said it yourself I am not as disobedient as my sister but I am not one to hold my words when others are been abused. I always wished to be a warrior, fate brought me to Earth and here I have been happier than I have been in a long time. I love my friends, Robin. And I am thankful for what I have had so far and nothing you say will make me change my thoughts"
"One year and nine months have not changed you at all I see" Starfire chuckled lightly was her nana actually expecting her to change?
"Nana, ten years will not change me" For the first time in a long time Mistdar's serious expression broke into a beautiful smile causing her cold façade to quickly disappear. The woman took seat on the bed beside Starfire.
"Koriand'r, I was worried, more than worried. You are my child, I only have you and Kai left. When Malekai told me you had Merel I felt like I had lost part of my heart. Unfortunately child you have your parents stubbornness and pride... I cannot deny it hurt me to think you did not want me to see you one last time. I know last time you parted we fought, I did not want for you to come to Earth. But my child you have never disappointed me, I have always and will always be proud of you."
Star's eyes teared, she wrapped her delicate arms around the woman's waist. "Thank you nana, thank you... and I am sorry for all the misfortunes I have caused"
"My little one the only misfortune you have caused is leaving so many people in heart ache." Her voice was half serious and Star nodded. "Kai told me Blackfire has repented."
"Yes, we talked. Got things settled and she promised not to steal again"
"Then I will go visit her shortly"
"I think she will enjoy that" Mistdar's expression changed for a moment, as she tried to address 'other' matters.
"Robin seems a quite decent young man. But I am not sure if..."
"He is"
"He seems to care very deeply for you, are you planning to wed him?" Star's eyes widened a few inches.
"WED? Nana we are both still too young for marriage"
"Koriand'r you know fully well in Tamaran you would early be engaged"
"But not here. I refuse to follow that tradition; we are simply too young"
"Have you shared a bed?"
"MISTDAR!"
"Very well, I know better than to try to convince you... Robin has informed us you have given your consent for the treatment we offer"
"I have little choice on the matter."
"Very well we will begin shortly, your friend Cyborg is preparing as we speak"
"Thank you nana" Starfire smiled a bright smile at the woman. Mistdar stood up, the movement causing Star's blanket to ride down and expose her bandaged stomach. Mistdar stopped mid movement, her eyes widened in horror as she inspected the stomach. Without a word she pressed her hand against the small patch of tainted skin that wasn't covered.
"Gods, my darling..." She grabbed both her wrists and attempted to take off the coverings but Star snatched her hand back.
"The skin has tread apart a few times. This is keeping it together, they are normal symptoms" Mistdar nodded, she managed to put a fixed smile on her face before exiting the room as quickly as possible. Once the door slipped close the icy-eyed woman allowed her tears to fall.
beepbeep
"So the needle will penetrate your energy core in attempt to drain the blood out, Mistdar said Merel originates from the energy core been used to its fullest causing the tissue to break and fill the core with blood."
"We believe that extracting all the blood and sealing the wound will give the core a chance to work again" Ended Robin solemnly.
"It sounds so complicated and dangerous"
"It's more complicated... it doesn't guarantee anything but it's a shot"
"The blood loss would kill her instantly"
"Normally yes but Raven believes she can use her powers to stop the bleeding for at least twenty minutes"
"Twenty minutes? You mean you have to do all that in twenty minutes?"
"More or less, yes." The cloaked titan answered as she entered the room.
"Will this endanger you in any way?" Asked a worried Starfire. She was not going to allow her friend to endanger herself in any way because of her.
"Only to a certain level, that is why I can only hold it for twenty minutes, more than that and I'll be knocked unconscious" Answered Raven.
"It would still not be enough, the blood in the energy core is not the only complication. The core is beside the heart, one wrong movement and it will kill her. As well as the core will need some kind of charge for it to start working again. You cannot do it all in twenty minutes!"
"Talk about been positive dude" Beast Boy remarked sarcastically.
"Kai is right, how can you possibly do all this in such a short period of time?"
"Starfire we'll do it" Emerald eyes met Robin's masked ones. The firmness and confidence in his voice calmed her but she was still terrified.
"If needed I will perform a ceremony, this may bring us more time" Starfire shockingly stared at the older woman. Mistdar was actually offering to perform the ritual to hold her life force within her! Since she could remember Mistdar had had one rule she stack to ALWAYS. 'No altering normal life cycles.' Keeping her life force within her body would keep her from dying for a period of time, it was going against the normal 'cycle' of things. It was preventing death and defying forces of nature whom were 'all knowing, powerful cycle of every living thing and knew exactly when something had to change'
"Mistdar you mean you would perform a ceremony?" She half choked.
"A ceremony?"
"To maintain her life force within her body"
"Say what?"
"To keep her from dying"
"You can do that?" Asked Cyborg in wonder.
"Why? Why after all this time? Why are you willing to do this now and not five years ago?" Star's question did not come as a surprise to the priestess. It was the same question that had kept her from sleeping the night before.
"Because your life is in danger"
"Ryand'r's life was as much in danger but you still denied him the ceremony" Malekai shut his eyes closed, this was getting to a discussion he didn't want to hear.
"My child, his life had already been extinguished when he came to me. Now that you know love, do you truly believe he would have wanted to live without Tita'ia? The ceremony would have been useless, his soul had long been ripped from his heart"
Star's eyes were fixed on the floor. She was right. He would have killed himself the moment he'd found out his wife was dead.
"How will you attempt to revive the energy core?"
"An electric shock of pure energy may be enough to 'revive' the core"
"Do what you must" She gave her friends a small smile. "When will we start?"
"We'll need about an hour to get ready, is that enough for you Mistdar?"
"Yes it is sufficient time for me."
"Then in an hour it is" Encouraged the green titan. Beast Boy was feeling a bit useless, it seemed like everyone was doing something to try and help Star, all but him, But what could he do?
Although of the cheerfulness in Beast Boy's voice his eyes betrayed him miserably. As did the eyes of everyone in the room, fear clouded their expressions, the fear that this could be Star's last hour.
The Last Hour beep
(Would you kill me if I killed her?............... Oh Yes)
Raven entered her dark room. She would need to start meditating now if she wanted to be in ready in time. She walked to a cover where she took two stones and placed them on the floor. She heard a soft nock on the door and yelled a "come in". The door opened revealing a different shaded red hair standing by the door.
"Raven I am sorry to disturb you, I just wanted to wish you luck and ask you if you needed anything"
"No thanks Star, I'm fine" The girl smiled but instead of leaving she closed the door behind her.
"Raven, thank you. I know how tiring the procedure will be for you but...I just wished to say thank you" Before Raven could come up with an answer she found herself enveloped on a frail hug. Raven hugged her friend back, understanding her fear, the same fear she was having at the moment.
"It'll all be all right Star, you'll see by next week we'll all be pigging out on pizza, and going to the park together. We'll almost miss the silence in the tower compared to the sound of Beast Boy and Cyborg fighting over the control remote... you'll see" The dark haired sorceress found she was trying more to convince herself than convincing the girl in her arms. Star nodded. Trying to picture it all, a life like the one she had before all this started. The emerald-eyed girl stepped away from the embrace, she had to do this now or else she might never have the chance to again.
"Starfire... I know how I said people come and people go, how it's pointless to be upset but I don't want you to go. I'm not you Star, I can't take care of the team like you can, I can't take care of Robin."
"Then I better not die" Her voice was cheery, easy going. Raven looked at her puzzly, after a few moments the cloaked titan just chuckled.
"Yes you better NOT" After sharing a smile both girls parted.
"I will leave you to prepare"
"Ok"
"I will see you in a bit Raven"
"Yeah, see you" The door slipped closed leaving the cloaked titan alone in the darkness.
beepbeep
"Yo Star wait up!"
"Beast Boy!" The Tamaranian girl greeted the green titan happily as she waited for him beside her door.
"I was hoping I'd catch you"
"But you have not 'caught' me"
The green boy sweat dropped as he remembered to use more specific language. He was pretty sure she understood what he meant by now, after all it had been over two years since they'd met but the red head seemed find it fun to make him rephrase his comments 'properly'
"You know what I mean" She giggled softly.
"Why were you looking for me Beast Boy?"
"Umm, well I was sorta wondering of you might need some company you know"
"Of course, I would love some company but, I thought you were at the medical bay setting up equipment with Cyborg, Robin and Kai"
"Well I was but then I found they didn't need me... Actually I didn't understand what the hell they were trying to do" Star chuckled at the way her friend had said it.
"You are most certainly welcome to join me"
"I was hoping I could, so whatcha up to?"
"Would you like to join me in a game of space master?"
Though a bit surprised at her offer, he was more than happy to oblige. He smiled warmly at her and helped her to the lounge.
"Beast Boy I believe the correct term is "I'm so wiping your but""
The green titan sweat dropped but his eyes never left the screen. The score read 50,000 for her and 45, 000 for him.
"I think you mean 'whipping' Star, and the game isn't over yet!" In a desperate attempt to fly over her shuttle craft Beast Boy surpassed her. The score turned 50,000 to 50,000.
With the corner of his eye he looked at Star, her pale frail face turned to the screen. Hands tightly gripping the controls, thought still been careful not the rub the tender bandages on her wrists against the hard controls. He watched the smile playing across her lips, completely into the game. Again he looked at the screen, he gulped and in what was the hardest decision of his life he focused his attention to a deserted corner of the lounge causing him to 'accidentally' loose speed and be killed by one of the enemy spaceships. Allowing the red head to win. Starfire squeaked in joy.
"Well Star you beat me fare and square" She smiled, just smiled at him. He smiled as well and scooped a little closer. The Tamaranian just smiled.
"Thank you, but you did not need to let me win Beast Boy"
"I didn't! You beat me fair and square Star!"
The emerald eyed girl just giggled. He watched as she placed the controller on the couch.
"Beast Boy?"
"Yeah?"
"May I confess something?"
"Sure Star, anything"
"I am scared"
"We all are"
"Will you promise to look after Raven if... will you promise?" A light shade of pink appeared on his cheeks.
"Of course Star. But you won't leave us. Robin, Cy and Kai really think this will work"
"Do you?" His gaze faltered he concentrated on an empty space before him.
"I'm sure it will, I'm just sorry I can't help more. I tried but the machinery didn't make sense to me, y'know. I didn't get anything of what they were talking about, I'm sorry I can't help you more"
"But you do help me, you did not let me be alone this past half an hour and for that I am thankful"
He blushed again, her words easing him but not taking away his guilt for not been able to help his friend more. A comfortable silence filled the room Beast Boy sat beside her and stared into the horizon. Suddenly Beast Boy turned himself into an adorable little green kitten and jumped into the girl's lap. She giggled and stroke his fur feeling sleepy as she did so.
beep
The room was silent, the air thick with unspoken worry. Kai prepared himself for the procedure. After a short argument they'd decided on Cyborg doing the procedure, Kai would help him and Robin would be monitoring her life signs. It just seemed like so much to do in such little time. A loud "CLANG" noise echoes through the room. It was Cyborg obviously frustrated with the machinery.
"Cyborg what's going on?"
"What's going ON? WHAT'S GOING ON? I'LL TELL YOU WHAT'S GOING ON! THIS GODDAMNED EQUIPMENT CANNOT BE SET UP!"
Kai sighed heavily before making his way toward Cyborg. He pushed a few buttons on the monitor's control panel and the monitor switched on. The metallic titan stared amazed at the monitor.
"How did you? What did you?"
"I switched it on"
Cyborg brought his hand to his human eye and rubbed his temple. "I can't believe I didn't figure that out"
"It is quite understandable Cyborg, this is new technology to you"
"But still..."
"We're all messing up Cy..." It was probably the first whole phrase the boy wonder had spoken in the last 47 minutes. Cyborg rested his eyes on the operating table in front of him. He was feeling more and more cornered as the minutes passed by.
At first he had insisted on doing the procedure himself because he was afraid Malekai would somehow mess up. If it was him doing the procedure he knew Star would be safe, he was trying to be in control as usual. But now he felt so pressured in he couldn't even think straight. Her life was in his hands, one wrong movement, one flitch and that monitor would go blank.
He looked at Robin, he looked completely drained and tired. He didn't blame him, it was possible this could be the last time they saw Star live and here he was stuck in setting up equipment. Cyborg gave him a sympathetic look before suggesting something.
"Robin why don't you go to Star for a bit, we're almost done here. Kai n' I can finish this"
"You sure?"
Kai threw him a panicked look which he quickly ignored.
"Yeah, go"
Before either of them could process the masked titan's movements he was gone.
beepbeep
He walked/ran to the lounge, he'd knocked on her door but no one had answered, so he guessed this was the only other possibility for her to be. He saw red hair leaning against the couch's back.
"Starfire?" The pale green eyed girl quickly turned around. Her smile widened when she saw him but just as quickly she made a "Shhh" sound. Intrigued Robin came closed to find a small green kitten asleep on the girl's lap.
"Beast Boy fell asleep" She whispered.
"Do you have a minute?" He smiled at her, enjoying the sweet teasing. Nodding she gently removed the kitten from her lap and set it comfortably on the couch. Robin moved closer to her, slipping a strong arm around her waist to support her. She gave him a grateful smile.
"Where shall we go?"
Without a word he led her to the door located at a hidden corner of the lounge, the door to the roof. Without warning he tightened his grip on her waist, slipped an arm below her knees and picked her up like she weighted nothing more than a feather. Unfortunately that was no further from the truth.
She didn't complain, and allowed him to carry her to the roof. She enjoyed been able to just snuggle close to his chest and forget about the outside world. Much to Star's disappointment they arrived at the roof top but Robin still didn't put her down. He walked closer to the edge, Star still in his arms. Somehow he managed to sit down with her on his lap.
"Robin?"
"Uh?"
Her delicate hands reached for his mask, taking the black cloth off. She smiled again once she was staring into his eyes. He tenderly kissed her forehead and held her tighter.
"Are you scared?" Strangely it was Starfire asking the question.
"Terrified... you?" She placed her head on the place where his shoulder met his neck.
"Not anymore"
"How come?"
"Because I realized you will not let me go... neither of you will, and if I do happen to die, there is nothing to be scared of" She sounded sure of her conclusion. Robin hid his face on her hair, using all the strength in his body not to cry and hold her as close to him as it was possible.
"Have I ever told you how amazing you are?" He whispered against her ear.
"I truly am not"
"No, it's true, you are amazing"
A moment of silence passed. Before Star spoke.
"I see a rabbit" Robin looked at her strangely before realizing she was playing a game... their game. The boy wonder looked up at the sky until he came across a cloud that looked remotely like a rabbit.
"Found it..." He pointed toward the cloud, Star giggled content that he was playing the game.
"I see yellow" The red head looked around trying to find something yellow.
"The sun?"
"No"
"That is cheating Robin there are too many yellow possibilities" He reached to her hair and picked up a few strands of hair.
"Light yellow" Star took the strands into her hand and carefully studied them.
"My hair must look quite like a colour wheel by now"
"It looks like fire"
She smiled at him, knowing he was trying to make her feel better. She placed her hands on Robin's cheeks and lightly kissed him on the lips. His eyes fell shut trying to burn this moment into his memory forever, the feel of her lips against his, her warmth, her care everything. He pulled her closer, pinning her against him. What started out like an innocent kiss soon ended on one of them been pinned to the floor. When they pulled away Star was smiling widely. Robin traced his bare fingers over her lips.
"What you grinning for?"
"Even after I am so weak I am still stronger than you" Robin took a moment to analyze their current position. Star was laying on his chest, both of her legs still by her side. And he was under. He giggled taking the bait.
"A lucky break I guess. But I can still beat you any time in sparring"
"Truly? I seem to recall a few bruises I left after our last sparring match"
"Tell you what, when you're up for it we'll spar, the looser has to clean the other's room for a month"
"But Robin my room is spotless it is yours that is messy"
"I'm sure you'll think of something"
The laughed together until the sound of someone clearing their throat was heard. Both titan's looked up to find Mistdar looking at them rather strangely. In seconds Robin's face turned several different shades of red while Star tried desperately to hold back her laughter. Star stood up allowing Robin to do so as well, he quickly reached for his mask and put it on. Mistdar had a rather peculiar look on her face as she witnessed the two teenagers 'regaining composure.'
"Everything is ready, the procedure will commence when you are ready Koriand'r"
"I am ready, thank you Mistdar" She answered politely as she took a firm hold on Robin's masked hand, she could see curiosity poking holes through her nana's eyes. Robin and Starfire began walking toward the door but were stopped by Mistdar's sharp hand signal.
"Koriand'r I am aware of your dislike to tradition but for your good name I suggest you both begin to think about marriage"
Star would never have imagined Robin's eyes could get that wide. She tried her absolute hardest not to laugh but started failed and exploited in laughter. Obviously not knowing why she was laughing since this was no laughing matter Robin just stared at her as if she'd grown two heads. Mistdar gave her 'the eye' and the girl quieted down. In a heartbeat Robin lifted her up and carried her down.
beep
She silently laid on the operating table. Her expression calm but her heart racing, she watched as all her loved ones gathered around her. All with the same worried/sad expression in their faces. She felt a cool hand on her forehead, it was Robin's hand she noticed the arrival of the two missing woman. Mistdar and Raven had just entered the room, Mistdar looking worried and Raven looking as icy as possible. The cloaked titan quickly began dropping two stones on the floor around her as she resisted a chant. She felt hot lips kiss her knuckles and looked directly into Robin's masked eyes knowing it could be the last time she would see his face. She felt a mask like object been placed on her mouth and nose.
"Relax Star, when you wake up it'll all be ok"
Cyborg's last words clinged on her mind like a prayer. Repeating themselves over and over until she believed them. Next thing she knew her eyes had dropped and her consciousness had gone dark.
(Operation)
Quickly Kai placed the two metre long needle directly above Star's stomach. Cyborg nodded toward Raven who began chanting in an almost frightening way. Soon a black aura surrounded them, her hair rose in the air. In one swift motion the thin needle penetrated the spot between her ribcage, the energy core. Blood began to spill, that was the 'out' call for Beast Boy who couldn't stand seeing his friend's blood. He quickly turned around to find a monitor behind him, the lifeline monitor... her monitor. The line in the monitor went up and down marking her heartbeat as long as she had it she would be fine....
(In Star's Mind)
"Mommy? Brother? Where are you?"
"Shh my darling" The soft voice cooed, she felt warm. She saw her mother, her fiery red hair falling down her shoulders. She looked a lot like Starfire. She smiled at her and the little girl smiled back.
"Mommy, I have missed you"
"And I too, sleep now my Star, sleep and when you wake up it will all be all right"
She closed her eyes once more and opened them to a huge room. The floor and walls were made of red Tamaranian wood, a completely red room. In it Mistdar sat in the middle, she found herself sitting in front of her, Blackfire by her side.
"The key to one's powers lies within one's soul"
"What does that mean?"
"It means that we have all the answers"
"Wrong Komand'r"
"It means who we are lies in who we choose to be"
"In a way yes Koriand'r... you will do nicely when you take the temple"
Little Star's gaze dropped sadly as se stare at the blood red ground, feeling her sister's hurtful gaze on her. She closed her eyes as she let a single tear escape her eyes and opened them to a busy street, the main street.
The market place street, she was dressed in a long plain dress, a basket in her hands. Ahead of her standing on an elevated patch of dirt talked a tall young blue haired man, not much older than her and a group of at least one hundred men listening attentively crowded around him.
"We must take action! It is within our own hands to change our planet's future if we do not act now we will never defeat the Gordalians! We must protect our families, our mothers, fathers, sisters, smaller siblings of we do not do it who will?!"
She listened attentively to the man talking, all her dreams everything was in his mouth. He spoke of all the things she wished to do, to help people in a more direct way than sitting on a temple. She watched as she walked closer to him a look of pure adoration on her face. She closed her eyes to open them in another large room.
Just this time it was completely white and hundreds of people stood beside her in one straight line. They stood proudly in their military uniform, including her.
"You are now in the military force of Tamaran you have vowed to protect this planet and the people in it unselfishly and so you shall!"
People around her cheered but she kept her eyes fixed on the tall blue haired General. Once he stopped speaking he walked closer to her, a smile on her face.
"You did it Koriand'r"
"You said I would General Phy'zzon"
"I am glad you did" His voice had a rare gentleness, she smiled widely closing her eyes on the act.
Opening them she found herself in a very soft and warm place, the difference of this place to the others was that for the first time she felt utterly safe and content. She felt something move behind her, looking back she greeted Robin's beautiful sleepy eyes.
"Morning hun" Her smile only widened at the nickname.
"Good morning sleepy head... Robin?"
"Yes?"
"You will never let me go will you?"
"Not in a thousand years" She turned around in his arms, holding him as tightly as she could. And for the first time in her life she didn't want to let go, she didn't want to leave.
Bright white light surrounded her, she opened her eyes to find herself in a completely white room, the only difference was that the light was brighter than anything she'd ever seen. She missed the warmth and peace of Robin's embrace.
"Star Fire"
She turned around to see her brother smiling at her.
"Brother!" She squeaked and ran to him. She caught him in a huge bear hug. "I have missed you so!"
"And I you my sister." He held her shoulder length and held her wrists to her face. "See my little one? No scars or pain"
"Am I dead?"
"Death does not exists Star, only the beginning to a new kind of existence."
"But I do not wish to leave"
"Oh my little one, where we are going there is not pain, no suffering, it is all peace and warmth. It is beautiful, mother, father, Tita'ia, everyone is there my little one. Thy are all waiting for you"
"But my friends are waiting for me"
"They can whether without you"
Starfire closed her eyes thinking back to her friend's sweet faces. Raven, Beats Boy, Cyborg, Kai, Mistdar and finally Robin. Yes they could whether without her but..."
"You are right"
"Come with me then" He took her hand gently
"CYBORG, ROBIN WE'RE LOOSING HER!" Kai ran to the monitor ignoring the loudness of Raven's chants.
"NO WE CAN'T!" Robin shove Kai aside took a small needle filled it with an orange liquid and injected her.
"STILL NO SIGN ROBIN!"
"Cyborg how long till you're done!"
"THERE'S TOO MUCH FREAKING BLOOD I NEED AT LEAST THREE MORE MINUTES!"
"THAT'S TWO MINITES TOO LONG"
"WE NEED TO CLOSE THAT PATCH!"
"DAMMIT RAVEN I NEED MORE TIME!" Cursed Cyborg frustrated. The blood in the core was almost all out but they still had to seal the two inside wounds and re-vive her energy core. The blood that was been held inside her body and out of the core by Raven's powers was beginning to re flow, and if it re flowed it would again begin to flood the core only this time it would instantly kill her.
"I'M FUCKING TRYING!" Answered the sorceress.
"ROBIN WE NEED 3 MORE MILLIMITRES" The masked titan injected her again. He felt so frustrated he didn't know whether to cry or yell, they were loosing her, loosing her.
"DONE! HURRY AND CLOSE THE PATCHES!" In a second Kai and Robin crowded around Star's body and began working on closing the two wounds inside her core, the only way was by laser and if they failed by just a millimetre it could hit her heart. Raven's chants increased to the point that she was yelling, they could see the red bloody liquid begin to close in on them.
The flow was returning.
The tiny camara inside the energy core permitting them vision to the inside of the core began to move opposite directions because of the lack of human manoeuvre. Seeing this Beast Boy ran to the operating table and held it for them. In seconds they were done, all that they needed was to revive the core.
At that moment one sound sank all others, the sound of her monitor beeping in a straight line and the sight of a flat line in the screen.
"RAVEN NOW!" Yelled Robin, Raven stopped chanting and fell back into the floor completely unconscious and exhausted to no end. She'd held for 26 minutes.
beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep
"Come with me then" He took her hand gently
Her emerald eyes studied the hand carefully. Before smiling lovingly at him and taking one step back.
"I am sorry brother but I cannot leave them. They may whether without me but I will not. I cannot leave them, I love them too much, it is not my time yet"
Ryand'r smiled, taking one step closer he kissed her temple.
"I knew you would say that"
"Then why did you?"
"Because your entire life you have been angry of having survived without us. I had to give you the choice of life this time my little one. So that you can now move on with your life."
"I love you" She whispered. "Tell everyone I love them"
"I will, as we love you" With that Ryand'r and the bright white light disappeared leaving her in a pitch darkness.
beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep
Robin ran to the table, taking the two panels he placed them directly over her energy core and gave her a shock. They all watched as her body shook with the power of the electricity.
"AGAIN" He demanded, another shock went through her body. But she didn't move.
"AGAIN!" He yelled.
"Robin that's enough man."
"AGAIN"
Cyborg held both his arms firmly keeping him from doing anything else, the two metallic plates fell to the ground. Robin turned to look at him, a look of pure rage and hate in his eyes but when he saw Cyborg's human eye he stopped himself from saying or doing anything. He was suffering as much as him. Robin looked at everyone in the room Beast Boy held Ravn securely in his arms, tears in his eyes. Kai looked just about ready to knock himself unconscious. And Mistdar, she still had her eyes closed as if she was too afraid to open them.
Robin shook Cyborg's grip off and walked to Star's lifeless body.
"You listen to me, you promised me you hear! You promised me you wouldn't leave me, ever. I won't let you leave me here so you better open those eyes Starfire. I am NOT letting you go" He whispered. Picking up the plated he tried once again, her body chook violently. Mistdar gasped and opened her eyes as she felt white energy entering her body.
Starfire drew one long deep breath of air making the lifeline skyrocket. The several beeps that followed brought everyone back from oblivion. In a heartbeat Robin had Star pressed against his chest listening as she gathered deep breaths. He looked at everyone in the room, tears in his eyes that were concealed by his mask.
Emerald green eyes snapped open, she observed her surroundings... she was in her room.
'Am I dead? No I am not, Ryand'r let me go. I am alive' A huge smile formed on her lips. Never before had she been so happy to breathe. She tried to move but she noticed how heavy and tired her entire body felt. She felt her limbs all right, but they were just too heavy to move. She looked around to find a crown of messy black hair resting against her thigh. A gentle smile crossed her features as the facts began to overwhelm her.
'I am alive... I am actually alive! Did they succeed? Am I cured? Oh Robin please tell me what happened!' She managed to lift her right hand, at first she inspected the hand. The skin around the wrist bandage seemed to be healed. She realized that her wrists weren't stinging like usual. She tried to sit up but the sharp pain that came from it stopped her from making any further attempts. She slowly felt as movement began returning to her body.
The soft warm pillow that was already moving a little too much for Robin's liking started to move even more waking the boy wonder. His eyes fixed on the emerald eyes and sheepishly smile from Starfire. In a second he gathered her in his arms and hugged her as tightly to him as he could, kissing her cheek senseless. Star giggled softly but even laughing hurt, her abdomen and torso were very sore.
"Robin what happened?" She watched his beaming smile, his hands took hers firmly.
"We almost lost you, actually we did loose you. Before we could revive the energy core you...you... your heart stopped beating, the important thing is that we managed to revive it in time. You've been unconscious or the last three days. And your body is recuperating at an amazing speed."
"So I am cured?"
"Yeah" A loud happy squeak was heard from Star before trapping Robin in another big hug. She was cured, she was actually cured and alive. Her friends believed it and that's why it happened. She shut her eyes allowing the tears she'd been holding for so long to fall, tears of relief.
"Are Raven and Nana all right?"
"Yeah, they're both fine. Raven collapsed after the operation... she lasted for twenty-six minutes. Mistdar was a bit shaken but she's fine....."
She laughed, just laughed as she held him. Six months of worry and hell were over and she was alive. Everyone was fine.
The door slipped open with a loud hiss and from it entered three titans and one cousin. They all looked like they had run all the way there.
"Robin we heard a scream is Star ok?"
"I am wondrous friends" She laughed from the bed.
"Hey guys guess which sleeping beauty just woke up?" Teased Robin. Everyone gathered around her, smiles of happiness and relief on their faces.
"Star you're ok!!" Yelled Beast Boy.
"Yes I am BB" She joked. Kai had a serious look in his face he stepped closer to her.
"Koriand'r, if you ever do something like that ever again I will personally bring the entire priesthood council here to lecture you about the value of life!"
Starfire burst into laughter. "Kai if you do that I promise you I will make sure I DO die" He laughed a little and shook his head.
"We're just glad your ok" Voiced Raven.
"Are you all right my friend?"
"Yeah, I fainted and was out of it for a few hours but I'm fine now."
"I am so relieved... where is Mistdar?"
The titans exchanged nervous looks but Kai spoke.
"She had been gone from Tamaran too long, she had to go back two days ago. She asked me to keep her informed in your recovery... she wished you to best and was sorry she could not stay longer but you know how thing..."
"It is all right Kai, I understand. (chuckle) I was not expecting her to stay too long and she knew I would be just fine"
"But you gave us quite a scare Star"
"I am sorry... thank you my friends for everything I do not believe I would have survived these past few months without all your support"
"Hey what are friends for right?"
"Right!"
"We y'all we better go and leave her be. You still need to rest Star"
"I will, thank you again" They all said their 'see you later' and left. But Robin remained a giant proud smile on his face.
"It feels like a dream"
"I'm pretty sure it isn't" She looked at him with her now well mastered puppy eyes look.
"Truly?"
"Yep, no dream, reality." Her smile beamed she scooped and gestured for Robin to lay beside her.
"I cannot fall asleep without you by my side remember"
The masked titan settled on the bed, he placed an arm under Star's head and threw and arm over her hip.
"Now can you sleep?" He teased.
"No, one more thing" Smiling she reached for his mask and took it off. Revealing his beautiful eyes. "Now I can" He smiled, bringing a delicate hand to his lips and kissing the back of it. She snuggled closer to him, her head resting on his chest, her body aligned alongside his. He buried his head on her hair, for the first time in her life it all seemed to fit, for the first time everything felt right and there was no other place she wanted to be.
"Robin"
"Ugh-hu?"
"We both kept our promises" He chuckled.
"Yeah Star we did. And we'll continue to keep them"
"Honey?" Though surprised at the new nick-name he listened attentively.
"Yeah?"
"Is my hair turning back to normal?" He really did laugh this time.
"Don't worry Star it will" He felt her frown. "I love it either way" He whispered, knowing it would made her smile.
"Darling?" This time he really burst out laughing.
"Yeah pumpkin?" It was her time to laugh.
She looked up, gazing into his eyes.
"I love you" She said in all sincerity. Robin caressed her cheek with his hand.
"I love you too" He kissed her sweetly on the lips, the kiss soon grew pass innocent only to be stopped by Robin's small butterfly kisses all over her eyes. "You need sleep" He whispered reluctantly. She quietly obeyed feeling a sleepy spell approaching. She settled back down against his chest. She was beginning to fall asleep by Robin's gentle fingers playing with her hair when an unanswered question resurfaced.
"Honey?"
"Umm?"
"You owe me a sparring match"
"I know"
"Robin?"
"Go to sleep"
"Can we go to the park after all this is over?" He smiled against her hair.
"Of course" With those last words she allowed sleep to take over.
beepbeepbeep
"Raven catch the ball!"
"Cyborg run left!"
(HUGE DIRT CLOUD) In seconds all five Titans found themselves thrown in the same pile one against the other over Cyborg.
"Can't... breathe"
"Robin your butt off my face!!"
"How bout y'all get OFF ME!" Yelled Cyborg not liking the extra weight.
"Dude where's the ball?"
"I have it right here!" Said Cyborg proudly only to almost have a heart attack when he realized he was holding nothing in his arms.
"Incorrect Cyborg, 'I' have it right here!" All faces (or all faces that could) looked up to find Star giggling up in the air with a football in her hands.
"All right Star!" Said Robin proudly, Raven threw an 'I told you we would win' look to Beast Boy who didn't hesitate to voice his complaint.
"Not fair she can fly"
"And like you can't?" That shut him up.
Up above Star couldn't help but laugh at the funny picture her friends were making. Yep, life was worth living.
The Lifeline continues but the story ends
Wow, wow, I FINISHED!!!!!! I wish to thank every single person who reviewed especially over the pass couple of weeks. I can't believe people actually wrote to ask me when I was going to post the next chapter! I love y'all and I want to THANK YOU for reading it. PLEASE DON'T HESISTATE TO REVIEW ME EVEN IF YOU THOUGHT THE ENDING SUCKED. Please do tell me what you thought about it and I AM WILLING TO WRITE A NOT LONG EPILOUGE ON IT ONLY BY READER'S REQUEST IF YOU DON'T ASK I DON'T WRITE.
I have loved all of this and if anyone has the time to read this I will answer some questions that may have popped up:
Mistdar Star's nana, she took care of Blackfire and Ryand'r after their parents died. Her relationship with Star is somewhat shaky. The reason why she didn't stay to make sure Star was all right was because of her strong duties that have often taken up her entire life.
What sis you think about the cure operation? I was pleased with it and by the way if your wondering about any future projects on Teen Titans I will begin working with another story much darker than this and it is about Starfire's past it will be very interesting and not long. I hope you read it when it's up.
THANK YOU ALL FOR EVERYTHING, I WISH YOU THE BEST.