CalliopeMused: Hey you can ramble all you like. I think I ramble way too much. I must agree the scream at the end (NOOOOO) was incredibly corny. Oh well, the rest of it was pretty good. Hope you like the chapter!

anwen: Thanks, I'm glad you liked the ending to my last story. Let's hope this one turns out just as well.

LoVeAbLe AnGeL: All you have to say is "This was Great!" and everything is okay. Alot of poeple really dont say anything.

Jadedea: Yes we will see jsut what happens with Taka. I'm glad your enjoying it!

Cottoncandyclouds: I'm really sorry you had to hold your breath for so long. I'm glad your not dead cuase I didn't update fast enough. Then again if your not reading this becuase you are dead...then...oh damn. I think I'll just shut up now.

Starwaterfairy343: Thanks, a review is a review. And a welcomed one at that. Ahh yes the prom. Now that was a fun night.

I am eternaly sorry for the eivlly long wait folks, I hope this chapter is worth the wait and that you enjoy it.

Chapter Twelve

Free at Last

Beast Boy sighed at the turn of events. From witnessing it himself he'd be willing to go along with the idea that Taka has returned to normal, so to speak. He was however apprehensive at the thought of how Raven might react to this 'sudden' change of behavior. It was a proven fact; Raven had a hard time with treacherous friends or enemies who claim to have come to their side. He walked in and cleared his throat. The two spun around and Taka gave Beast Boy a fearful look.

"Uhhh, if you guys are all done here…I bet they'll want to see you up front." He nodded awkwardly leaving Himora and Taka to decide how they were going to explain themselves to everyone.

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In the main room Starfire downloaded a holographic star chart from the Titan mainframe to their ship's computer. She finished her task and pulled up Cyborg on her comm. link.

"Cyborg I have finished preparing our celestial telemetry. Have you made any progress with repairing our glider?"

"Yeah it'll just take a couple more minuets then we'll be all set."

"Well done Cyborg, once we make contact with my people rescuing Robin should be an easy endeavor."

"I copy that. I'm just about finished here so come on down when you're ready." She nodded.

"Understood." She flipped her comm. link shut and noticed Raven and Beast Boy walking in. "Friends I am nearly ready to depart with Cyborg. Tell me how are you faring?" Raven nodded.

"Pretty good, last time I checked our little guest was nice and quiet." Beast Boy bit his lip."

"Yeah Raven about that…" Before he could answer the door opened behind him and two other people walked inside. Beast Boy scrunched up his face in dread. He opened his eyes and saw just what he was expecting. Starfire was staring straight ahead apprehensively and Raven had a look of pure mistrust. Himora stood up straight with Taka standing slightly behind him as though wanting his protection.

"Himora, just what do you think your doing?" Said Raven not taking her eyes off Taka. Himora put up his hand.

"I understand you're your feelings Raven, but I can assure you that she will cause no more trouble."

"How can you be certain," asked Starfire. Himora scratched the back of his head looking for a way to explain himself.

"You're familiar with Psion technology aren't you?" She nodded pensively.

"To a certain extent I suppose."

"Raven just got through performing a psychic sweep through her mind. I believe that the sweep might have freed her from some sort of brainwashing as a result of the Psion hand device. Kormand'r does posses one does she not?"

"Yes, she does."

"But that does not mean that she is fully trustworthy," said Raven. Taka sent a downcast look toward the ground.

"Raven," said Beast Boy. She snapped her head in his direction. "At any other time I'd be with you but I saw it myself. I think it will be okay." Raven sent another unsure glance at Taka then at Himora.

"I give you my word," assured the ex-assassin.

"We'll see." Cyborg's face then showed up on the large screen and saw an extremely quiet and awkward situation.

"Hey guys, this is just an FYI but the T-Ship is also ready to go so when yall are ready, it'll be there waiting for ya." They all remained silent for a moment. "Well. I'll see you in a sec Star." The screen went black and Starfire switched off her own consol.

"Friends." She received no answer from any of them and clapped her hands. "Friends!" They all snapped out of their worlds and faced Starfire. "We cannot allow any disruptions among ourselves. Now, Raven you will pursue the Ra's Al Ghul as previously planned you will only have an additional team member. We need only to have Himora keep a watch on her until such time that she can be entirely trusted."

"But-"

"This is not open for discussion Raven," said Starfire bluntly. "I would also like you to report to me if and when you have made any progress." Raven swallowed and slowly nodded. "I wish we could accomplish our tasks some other way but this is our situation. I bid your farewell friends; I hope to see all of you again soon." They all gave her a nod goodbye and Starfire rushed to the elevator. Raven crossed her arms and thought for a moment.

"Alright, we have a job to do. Let's get it over with. Himora…" He looked at her. "You two better get ready." He gave her began walking off to the very same elevator. As Taka began to follow her mentor she glanced back at Beast Boy and gave him a timid smile. The changeling looked around then sheepishly smiled back with a small wave. Raven caught sight of the two of them and narrowed her eyes to slits. Taka saw this and immediately caught up with Himora. She walked up to Beast Boy and watched her disappear down below. She then sent a small glare back at Beast Boy.

"What? If we're gonna trust each other then we should make her feel welcome shouldn't we?"

"Just be careful, we all remember the last time you were taken in by a pretty face."

"Hey! I'd appreciate it if we didn't go down that road. Besides it's not like I haven't learned my lesson, mom." Raven looked slightly hurt but kept her emotionless demeanor.

"Fine, let's just get going." She moved past Beast Boy and left him alone in the common room. With a short sigh he ran to catch up with her.

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Already leaving Earth's orbit, Starfire and Cyborg prepared to begin their rescue mission. While Cyborg sat up front piloting the glider Starfire sat in the back going through a holographic star chart. She held her index finger just under chin trying to decide on the best possible route.

"We should continue on through the Viridian system for about twenty-five light years. Twelve hours later we should make Tamaran."

"Gotcha, is Blackfire headed for Tamaran?"

"Not likely, however I believe that once we have the aid of my people it will be all the more easier to rescue Robin. At which time Raven should be able to provide us with some insight as to what my sister and her new friend have been brewing." He nodded and set to preparing emergency power if needed.

"So do you think Konich-I mean…Taka, do you think she's alright now. Do you suppose that maybe all this time it really was just that Psion hoochi-koo thing."

"It is difficult to say; their technology has always been shrouded in mystery as they have themselves as well. I suppose it is possible that Taka has merely been manipulated in some way. However it is still to early a time to be sure."

"Did you ever think that maybe if you had one of those things, maybe you could turn the tables on Blackfire?"

"I have no desire to consort myself with such terrible things. The Psion hand device is meant for only one thing; to cause pain and suffering. And perhaps the occasional re-education. As it is, the device has a propensity for corrupting its user."

"How so?" Starfire sighed.

"You need only observe my sister." She loaded their route into the glider's computer and glanced down at her hand. Still wound around her finger was the star shaped engagement ring Robin had presented to her not long ago. She gazed down at it, her mouth parting slightly. Very slowly she reached for it and began slipping it off.

"What do you think your doing?" Starfire's head snapped back up.

"I am sorry?"

"Girl I can see you in the window." Starfire's reflection was indeed in the ships front window. "Now answer the question Star, what are you doing?" She bit her lip.

"We may encounter some resistance; I do not wish to loose it in any resulting confusion." Cyborg shook his head.

"Alright now I have an order for you, you leave that right where it was. You don't be giving hope any." She looked at his reflection. "You hear me?" She gave him a confident nod. "Alright then, hyperspace coordinates locked in…opening hyperspace window." A small event horizon appeared before their ship, they entered it and the portal disappeared with a flash.

NOW WITH THE OTHERS…………

Beast Boy piloted the T-Ship over the snowy landscape of Tibet. He looked a little more than slightly nervous as the Titan craft would dip now and again. They jerked from Beast Boy pulling back up on the stick. Raven rubbed her head after bumping it on the window. She tapped her small ear piece.

"Easy killer, we would like to bring this back all in one piece."

"I'm working on it Raven, but Cy never even lets me pilot his model airplane. How am I supposed to ever bet better if I can have any hands on experience? The guy doesn't trust me at all."

"Look we will keep this how thing to ourselves if you can just get us there," said Raven looking out the window. She then looked over at Himora. "Is she sure this is where we have to go," asked Raven with her hand to her mic. Himora looked over at Taka and she gave him a definitive nod.

"She is."

"Good, I don't want to go halfway around the world for nothing." Before they had left the tower Taka informed them over Ghul's last known location was in the Himalayan mountain range. He hovered over an open plain and remained in midair for a moment.

"Okay Beast Boy," he said to himself. "Land the T-Ship, no big. You deal with high tech stuff all the time."

"Nice and easy Beast Boy. Light as an-Oph!" Raven and the other tow passengers let out a short breath as Beast Boy touched down the small craft with a thud. "Good enough." They climbed out and into the whirling winds of snow. Covering themselves with coats bearing the Titan logo on the back, they looked at the long climb ahead of them. Beast Boy, Himora, and Taka then began slowly making their way atop the slippery slope. Raven then levitated up next to them and raised an eyebrow.

"So should I wait for the rest of you at the top or would you like to do this the easy way?" They all looked at each other and mentally slapped themselves. Raven created a small bubble around each of them and carefully ascended to the top of the mountain. They landed on a small rock way where there before them stood a majestic palace like structure built on the mountain itself. Raven lowered her hood and pushed an ornate wooden door forward. It creaked open revealing an empty entrance hall with a grand staircase. They entered and the door slowly closed behind them. "Alright Taka, follow the leader," said Raven staring ahead. Taka gave her a questioning look. "You heard me, you first." Taka muttered something in Japanese and walked forward.

"What are you trying to prove Raven," asked Himora.

"We'll see in a moment." Taka tread forward slowly until she stood abruptly and jumped back as three or four swords rained down on her previous position. Her heart pounding Taka looked back at Raven as though asking for her approval.

"Didn't expect to see any of you here." They all turned their attention to the top of the stairs ahead where stood Red X; one of the few remaining of Blackfire's recruits. Taka rose to feet not taking her eyes off him. "Honestly I must say we're all disappointed in you, I mean I used to think you were really cute. Almost as cute as Raven that is." Raven narrowed her eyes at him.

"Where is Ra's Al Ghul," she spat.

"Sorry the big man isn't in right now, but I can tell him you called. Now get out of here."

"Dude we're not going anywhere!" Shouted Beast Boy. X chuckled and nodded.

"Sure you aren't." He snapped his fingers and they found themselves surrounded by a host of Ghul's ninja mercenaries.

"Ninjas, why does it always have to be ninjas," whined Beast Boy." Himora drew his sword. Raven threw her heavy coat to the ground and covered herself in her signature black aura. 'I've always wanted to say this,' she thought.

"TITANS GO!"

JOING ROBIN……………….

He lay flat on his back on the bed in his cell-like room. A much as he so desperately tried he couldn't fall asleep to save his life. Too many things were zooming around in his mind. He found himself gazing at the small picture he had of Starfire once again. It almost became something he did without even thinking. Someone at his door made him quickly stow away the picture. A dark looking Tamaranian stood in his doorway and beckoned Robin to come with him. He walked behind Robin while Robin followed another. He glanced back a couple of times at the one behind him.

"So, what's Blackfire promised you for going with her on whatever crazy quest she has planned?" The minion did not answer. "What's your name, you people have names don't you? I know, I'll call you Ed. Yeah? How's Ed? I never knew an Ed so I guess you're the first." The alien hit him across the back telling Robin to shut up. "Alright fine." They stopped before two double doors, they slid open and Robin's jaw dropped. Blackfire was laying on her side on what looked like a silk sheeted bed. She wore a see through nightgown and popped open a bottle at the sight of him. 'God help me.'

"Well don't keep me waiting, come on in." Robin remained rooted on the spot until his escorts shoved him forward. The doors closed behind Robin with a soft click. Blackfire smiled seductively and poured from the bottle two glasses filled with a red liquid. She walked up to him and held one out. "Tamaranian ale?"

"Sorry I'm strictly a water and PowerAde guy. Though sometimes I will go for the occasional cream soda."

"Please Robin; it takes a long time for this stuff to ferment." He took the glass from her and poured into a plant off to the side.

"No thanks." She shrugged and sipped her drink. "What the heck do you want?" Blackfire sipped another sip and lightly smacked her lips.

"I've recently had an epiphany."

"That so?"

"That is so, you see I realize that I can by no means stop or convince you otherwise from wedding my sister."

"Figured that out all on your own," quipped Robin.

"Indeed. Anyway as I said I now realize that there is no way…unless." She caught Robin's attention. "Unless I am carrying your child." Robin's mouth parted as an evil and lustful grin spread across Blackfire's face. She gulped down the rest of her ale and began advancing on Robin. He began backing away with his hands in front of him.

"Oh hell no! You stay away from me!"

"Oh I'm sorry Robin but it doesn't work that way. On my ship what I want I get, and right now I want you!" She reached forward, grabbed him by the shoulders and shoved him down on her bed. He jumped away and backed into a corner.

"If you come just an inch closer I'll kill you and I won't look back." Blackfire cocked her head up and giggled devilishly.

"Yes Robin, keeping threatening me. Keep resisting me; keep trying to fight with all your strength. It arouses me." Robin reached for anything he had in his belt, anything at all. Robin would have found something to come to his aid but for one thing he had no belt. He mentally cursed having forgotten that his belt had been taken away long ago. Before he knew it Blackfire's palm was in his face and her hand device began boring into his head once again. Robin gasped out loud as the energy surged through him. It felt like his entire body had suddenly switched off and the only thing he was aware of was the pain and Blackfire's voice.

"Kneel for me Robin." He gritted his teeth trying with all his might to disobey but the pain overtook him and he sank to his knees. "This could have been avoided Robin, we could have had a wonderful night together. But instead it looks like we'll be doing this the less desired way. But I will happen." She knelt down in front of him while keeping him firmly in her power. She moved in closer and closer. She closed her eyes and was sure she was going to touch Robin's lips when a sudden bright light covered the boy wonder. In the next second he vanished utterly leaving Blackfire all alone. She stood up just as quickly recognizing the beam for what it was. She dashed over to a wall comm. and slammed down on it. "GET US OUT OF HERE! We make for Tamaran as planned." In an instant Blackfire's ship entered hyperspace and was out of sight.

Robin knelt with his eyes shut tight and hoping that he was dead, anything was better than staying with that evil witch Starfire called a sister. He squinted one eye open and saw a brightly colored floor beneath him. Knowing that he was somewhere else he let out a thankful sigh. "Thank you God."

"Well not exactly." Robin knew the voice at once. "But he probably had a hand in it." He looked up and saw Cyborg standing over him. His friend smiled down at him and slowly nodded his head.

"Cyborg?"

"Hello Robin." Opened mouthed he turned his head and saw her. Starfire, the love of his life, his fiancé was standing just next to Cyborg. She held out her hand and Robin took it eagerly. "It is with great honor Robin, that we welcome you aboard the Tamaranian flag ship X'hal-Nor." Robin slowly stood up and finally noticed he was in a long hallway with dozens more Tamaranians.

"Wha-What happened?"

"Well in laymen's terms…"

"We beamed you up," finished Cyborg. "We got a hold of Star's people and they were more than happy to give us a hand. Robin nodded and looked back at Starfire. She looked like she had been holding back something for days. A feeling she was saving for just the right moment. Robin couldn't have picked a better time to think about this for at that moment Starfire suddenly wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged him tightly.

"Oh Robin! Words cannot express the joy I have in seeing you again."

"I missed you too," he said rubbing her back. "More than you know." The fact that Cyborg and a good number of Starfire's brethren were there watching melted away and all that was left was the too of them. A loud clearing of the throat made them sprang apart and they saw a taller man in red robes waling up to them.

"Koriand'r, is this the boy?" She nodded. She walked over to him and looked back at Robin.

"Robin, I wish to introduce you to his highness the King of Tamaran…my father." The floor fell out from beneath his feet. 'Her father!' He knew of course that the king was her daddy but he never thought he would actually meet him. He stretched out his hand.

"Sir." The King eyed Robin strangely for a moment then Starfire pointed to Robin's hand.

"It's an earthen salutation Father, shake his hand." He raised his eyebrows at her and lightly shook Robin's hand.

"Interesting species," muttered her father. "Koriand'r we will discuss this another time. For now I believe some rest for you and your friends are in order." She grabbed hold of Robin's wrist and tugged him in the direction of her father.

"Come friends!" They were each given rooms much like the ones they had at Titans Tower though here they were identical. Starfire was showing Robin the different aspects of Tamaranian furniture when Cyborg popped in.

"Night yall, before I hit the sack I'm gonna see if I can get a hold of Raven."

"Very good Cyborg, you do that," said Robin with a smile. The half machine saluted and took his leave. Starfire looked back at Robin with a puzzled look. He was busy making down his bed and throwing off his shoes.

"Please why does Cyborg intend on 'hitting a sack'?" Robin plopped down on his bed and let out a tired sigh.

"It means just what I'm about to do, go to bed." Starfire turned to leave but stopped and turned back.

"As you re-materialized before us you looked as if you were in pain. Please, you were not being tortured once more were you?" Robin looked up at his fiancé and gulped. If it was one thing he hated doing it was worrying her. He shook his head.

"No, I was just….no I wasn't Star." She walked over lay next to him and laid a hand on his head.

"I wish you would let others care for you Robin. You are loved far more than you know." She kissed him good night and dared not keep him from rejuvenating sleep for a minuet longer. Robin now found it was a no brain-er falling asleep. What he had so narrowly avoided was forced lust. But Starfire, Starfire had nothing but warm tenderness. It was one of her many qualities that kept Robin from wanting to just die in his sleep.

I am so sorry this took so long to get out. I must admit I got kinda lazy. I would also like to say that I'm fixing to come out with a sequel to my last story "Blood Work". I'm sure how it will turn out, but we'll see what happens. Hope you like it so far. Laters!