Well, I'm back, and after over a month I updated another chapter. Sorry for the long delay but I've been busy in August. But I was able to finish this without forgetting. Can't leave everyone here in the dark now can I? Now for almost a month, I got one review from hawklover90 and only 25 hits. That's a bit low then I thought. But I hope this next chapter will make heads turn. One down, one to go, let's get this baby rolling. On this chapter, Kori Anders, A.K.A. Starfire, remembers old memories of the time she was a Titan, and being with Robin. Realizing her mistake, is it too late to apologize to Nightfire? And if so, will Night be able to use the time vortex regulator to save her father and kill his murderer? All this will be answered if you read this.

Chapter Notes

I'm going to write a different story about how Starfire met Robin and became a Titan. Since I've seen the episode, "Go!", I didn't like the way Star met Rob. So I put together a scene where oddly enough matches the beginning of the bedtime story Star read to her daughter on chapter ten. Also, two more quickie props from both chapter one and ten. You'll know what I mean once you read this chapter. Plus, there's a little part for those of you who read my first story, "Teen Matrix." If anyone of you didn't read it yet, I suggest you read that story first before you can continue on.

Flashbacks: Italics

Disclaimer: I don't own the Teen Titans

Chapter Nineteen: Memory Lane

Deep within the basement of Titans Tower, where dust and cobwebs littered the area, Kori Anders was searching for something somewhere within the stacks of boxes. After her fight with her daughter, it got her thinking if she was right. Is she forgetting about Robin and becoming something that she hated the most, a Troq? Are the words Tori said are true? To find out, she has to find some proof to help her solve this question. After looking at each box container, she spotted one at the top of a small stack that she remembered all too well. She picked it up and blew the dust off the top that has a label that says, "Robin." Ever since Nightfire's birth, Kori has always thought about letting her daughter use Robin's room. When she talked to her friend's about this at the right time, they cleaned out Robin's room, redecorate it, and made it roomier for Night to live. But all of Robin's personal belongings was put in this box and kept within the basement for storage. Kori took care of that and she placed it at this very spot where she would remember it. Since she had a good sense of memory, she never forgets where it is. After staring at the box for what appeared to be a long time, she rested it on the floor, sat down cross-legged, and open the box. Inside the box there were an assortment of old birdarangs, masks, pictures, newspaper clippings, broken disks, everything that's everything that reminds her of Robin. She rummaged through the contents and took out one of the clippings that caught her attention. This clipping has a picture of her younger self flying with the title above it that says, "New Recruit joins the Teen Titans." Kori stared at that clipping remembered the time she arrived to Earth, where she had met her knight.

Flashback…

In the dark alley in the suburbs of Jump City, a girl no older then seventeen had her back against the dead end wall while four hoodlums surround her holding a switchblade knife, chain, brass knuckles, and a lead pipe. It was strange to her because she didn't know what's going on. The truth is that she's an alien from another world. She came to Earth to start a new beginning, but the problem is that she doesn't know about the customs, not to mention she has no idea how the people react. In fact she thought that they were tour guides helping her know about this city. She looked at them all and little frightened and tried to reason with them but her native tongue was all unknown to her. Even the thugs couldn't help but to laugh at her bizarre language.

Thug 1: "I don't know what you're talking about girl, but I bet it's something sexy."

Thug 2: "I agree. Who wishes to go first and show her how we handle business in the projects."

One of the thugs with a chain stepped forward and smirked.

Thug 3: "I'll take a shot at her."

He spun the end of his chain around, ready to take care of her. The young alien's eyes shown a scornful look and the sound of her voice sounds both angry and scarred at the same time.

Young Alien Girl: "Zengtha ru maka! Kek zengtha ror!"

The thug just chuckled at her threat, thinking that her language was funny.

Thug 3: "You got some sharp tongue missy, but let's see if you squeal like a pig."

He lifted the chain up and was ready to knock her off her feet. Unknown to them all, a shadow figure was watching on top of the building, waiting for the opportune moment to take action. The hoodlum brought his chain down the same time the girl's eyes started to glow a little green. But just as she was about to do something, a foreign object came down from the sky and with precise accuracy, connected right through the chain's hole and pinned it down on the concrete floor. Both the thug and the girl looked down at the object and notices that it was a red boomerang shaped like a bird. The thug looked at the boomerang and was a little puzzled.

Thug 3: "What the…"

But just as he was about to figure it all out, he heard a loud battle cry from above. When he looked up, he was introduced by a back heel kick straight to the temple. The rest of the gang stood in awe to see their comrade out like a light with his face flat first on the concrete. When they looked to see who attacked him, they were shocked for words. There was a boy of sixteen years of age with peach skin and spiky black hair. He was wearing a red yellow and green shirt with an "R" symbol on the left side of his chest, a pair of green pants and green gloves, a yellow utility belt, a pair of black boots with metal heels, black and yellow titanium cape, and a mask that covered his eyes. No doubt about it that this person the crooks see is the former sidekick of Batman and new leader of the Teen Titans, Robin. Underneath his eye mask, Robin had a serious look in his eyes.

Robin: "Leave this girl alone or you will be answering to me."

After a few seconds of quietness, one of the thugs burst out a loud and commanding voice.

Thug 4: "It's one of those Teen Titan twerps! Get him!"

The three thugs rushed in with all their weapons weapons ready for a beating. Robin smirked and jumped over the thugs with a barrel somersault. Once he landed on the ground, he pulled out a small cylinder object from his utility belt and made it extend to a pole, or to his point of view, a staff. He twisted his staff around posed to do a little "Bring it on." hand gesture. The thugs looked at the boy, looked at each other, and looked back at him. Thinking about how to take him down, the three of them charged in and attack Robin with their weapons. The first thug used the lead pipe to hit Robin upside the head, but the Boy Wonder raised his staff up to block the criminal's attack. The second thug came from behind with his switchblade knife ready to stab someone's back. Robin, felt it coming, knee jab the first thug in the stomach, turned around, and whack the switchblade off the crook's hand. He then pulled out a pistol and was about to fire it when Robin jumped up, did a flip kick, and knock the gun out of his hand. The first thug charged in with his lead pipe held like a baseball bat to make a swing. Robin ducked the swing and lifted the thug on his bare shoulders and tossed him to the second thug, landing on the floor and toppling onto each other. The third crook came in and started attacking the Boy Wonder with his brass knuckles. Robin turned around a second before and seeing his weapon of choice, swiftly avoided the stiff punches of the crook. He then ducked the last punch and used his staff to trip the criminal off his feet. The other two quickly got up and worked as a tag team to dispose the boy. But Robin looked at them and smirked. He threw his pole in the air and jumped up, landed on the thug's heads upside down with his hands, and hit their heads into each other. He then jumped off them and landed on his feet while the two crooks fell to the floor unconscious. Now all that's left was the third thug that got up, picked up the lead pipe one of his comrades dropped, and ran to Robin with a war cry. The Boy Wonder heard the yell from behind, so he grabbed his Bo staff that was reaching to the ground and turned around to use his weapon to knock the pipe out of thug's hands and clubbed him right in the face. The crook stood there for a few seconds until he started to wobble and collapsed next to his gang. Robin, on the other hand, did a finish up pose and had a chassire cat grin on his face.

Robin: "Humph… Crooks today, they never learn."

He retracted his Bo staff to smaller form and place it into his utility belt and turned around to look at the young girl that was still had her back against the wall. He found it odd that any girl would flee and get out of harms way, but this one stayed and watched the whole thing. Another thing is that she looks different from anyone one else. She was wearing a purple tank top with a silver neck brace and armguards, a matching skirt and boots covering most of her soft orange skin, and red crimson hair cascading down her back. But what got him interested were those emerald green eyes that shine and glitter through the night. She was like an angel coming down from Heaven. He remained cool and approached the girl, offering her a hand.

Robin: "Hey, are you O.K.?"

The girl backed away when she saw the hand offer. This happened to her before with those crooks, it wouldn't happen again. Robin could tell that she was scared, but he calmed her down and tried to reason with her.

Robin: "This isn't what you think. I'm not like one of those guys you've encountered earlier. I'm just here to help you."

The girl looked at the boy's face and could tell he's telling the truth. He did save her life for once and no one ever done that before. Even if his muscles don't look much, he was incredible strong and athletic. His face was gentle and calm when he's not fighting and that mask covering his eyes made him look so mysterious. And for once, she found someone that cared about her and she can trust him. Regaining her courage, she took Robin's hand and slowly approached him, not keeping her eyes on him. It was then that Robin let go of her hand and asked her the question again.

Robin: "Now are you all right?"

The girl looked away at the Boy Wonder, trying to think of a way to answer her question. When she came up with the answer, she looked up at him and said it.

Young Alien Girl: "Korshka Gahskna. Ruozkushi Dashu Zanshibar."

Robin was a bit confused on what she's saying cause she was speaking in a language he never heard of before. So in order to not embarrass himself, he made a quick guess.

Robin: "I'll take that as a yes."

Just then, they heard siren noises coming down the road. Realizing that it's the police, Robin took out his grappling hook, aimed it at the highest fire escape, and fired. Once it connected to the highest guardrail, he looked at the strange girl, smiled, and did a cool salute.

Robin: "Be careful in the streets next time you go out. And if you get into trouble again, I'll be there. See ya."

He pushed the button on the grappling hook and he flew up to the rooftops until he disappeared in the night sky. The alien girl looked kept watching him, trying to figure out what this feeling is with this strange Earth boy. Is it… Is it possible that this feeling is… Love?

T-T-T-T-T-T-T-T-T-T

Heading back to Robin, he was jumping on rooftop to rooftop heading back to Titans Tower. He then stopped and looked back at the direction where he met the girl, wondering about her appearance.

Robin: "Who was that girl? She looked a whole lot different then anyone I met. And to think Raven was the odd girl in team. And what was she talking about back there. I never heard of that language before in my life. Could it be that she's a local or maybe out of town?"

There was an awkward silence as the Boy Wonder was waiting for an answer. After seconds, he shrugged his shoulders and shook his head.

Robin: "Ah… Who knows? All that I know is that I saved her and she would be thankful for it. Besides, she looked kinda cute."

He turned around and was about to head back home. But when he did that, he got startled and landed on his butt. For in front of him was the same girl he rescued earlier, only this time, she's floating in mid air with that innocent smile spread across her face. Robin was both surprised and shocked to see her, even if she's in the air.

Robin: "You again? What are you doing here? And why are you flying?"

The girl couldn't help but giggle at what he's saying, so she landed on the concrete floor and spoke to him again.

Young Alien Girl: "Chubza Kanish Blagjog. Rejuli woktosh Qirushka."

Again, Robin was a bit confused at what she's saying and had a blank look on his face. He then got up, brushed off the dust off his uniform, and said hello in Japanese.

Robin: "Uh… Konichiwa?"

Again the girl giggled, thinking that this isn't going anywhere. So she started to go to Plan B. She walked directly to Robin until she was face to face, placed her hands on his face, and gave him a kiss. That made the boy's face turned bright red and his eyes bugging out uncontrollably. After what seems to be like an eternity, she let go of the hold while Robin backed away and started spitting out the girl cooties every little boy has a fear of. The girl giggled once more and began talking.

Young Alien Girl: "I am sorry. Did I startled you in some way?"

Robin, who is still spitting and coughing, answered her question without looking at her.

Robin: "Startled? You completely surprised me. This is the first time I got kissed by a girl and it was a girl I never-"

He suddenly stopped in mid sentence when he realized that she was speaking proper English, for the first time actually. He looked at her and was still shocked for words.

Robin: "Did you just speak English?"

Young Alien Girl: "Oh yes I did. It is a tradition that we Tamaraneans have to learn about a species native tongue by exchanging lips."

Robin: "Tamaranean? Then that means you're not from around here are you?"

Young Alien Girl: "No. I came from Tamaran, a planet in the Vega system about 26 light-years from your planet. Now that I have acquire the knowledge of your language, we shall now communicate."

Robin: "O.K…"

Young Alien Girl: "As I said before, I would wish to thank you for saving me against those bad men."

Robin: "Gee, you're welcome. It is what we heroes do best, saving lives and making this city safe from the forces of evil."

Young Alien Girl: "Please, tell me the name of my savior."

Robin: "Um… Robin. My name is Robin."

The girl and a small smile on her face, knowing that the name, Robin, sounds like a unique name.

Young Alien Girl: "Hello Robin, my name is Koriand'r."

Robin kind of spaced out, a bit confused about the name of the strange girl.

Robin: "Uh… Can you say your name again?"

Young Alien Girl: "Koriand'r."

An anime sweat drop ran down the back of his head, as he has no idea how to pronounce the girl's name.

Robin: "Do you have any other name that maybe I can understand?"

Young Alien Girl: "Well since you can't understand my Tamaranean name… My name in your language stands for Starfire."

Robin smiled back when he heard her name.

Robin: "Starfire. Such a lovely name."

Starfire: "Thank you, my mother gave me that name after Tashek star fell from the sky and turned into a comet, leaving a trail of fire."

Robin: "Well that sounds… accurate."

Starfire: "It is. Now even though you rescued me, I was going to fight them myself."

Robin: "Really, well I don't think flying would take them down easily."

Starfire: "Actually, we Tamaraneans do more then just the joy of flight."

Robin: "Of really? Well then what else can you do?"

Starfire smirked, lifted up in the air, and flew straight to the ground. Robin just looked on with a blank look and a question mark on top of his forehead.

Robin: "huh… Guess the girl's a little shy. Oh well, can't blame her for trying."

Robin turned around and headed back to the Tower. But before he could even think of jumping off the building and onto another one, a huge shadow came up behind him. Once he turned around, he couldn't believe what he just saw. Hovering in front of him was Starfire holding a city bus, out of service thankfully, over her head. Hell, Robin couldn't believe it that he had his mouth hung wide open."

Starfire: "Unlike you Earthlings, we Tamaraneans are stronger then we look. We can lift ten times our own weight without breaking "the sweat" as you call it."

She then landed safely on the ground and gently places the bus to the side. She then looked at Robin, still in complete shock, as the Boy Wonder shook it off and had a loose for words.

Robin: "That… That was incredible!"

Starfire: "You think that was glorious, then you will love this."

Star then closed her eyes and concentrated hard. Upon doing that, she tightens her fists and sparks of green light danced around it. She then opened her eyes, only this time they were glowing green. The same with her hands, as they became two orbs of green light. Robin stared at them at amazement.

Robin: "Wow… That's interesting. What are they?"

Starfire: "They are called star bolts. Once I have filled my body up with righteous fury, I created them to be used as throwing projectiles. They are dangerous as they look Robin."

She then turned off her star bolts as her eyes went back to normal.

Robin: "Pretty amazing Starfire, you're more to it then I thought."

Star laughed a little while Robin looked at the bus next to them and was sweating bullets. He looked back at her and gave a worry smile.

Robin: "Now do you mind if you can put the bus back to where it belong. Someone has to use it soon."

Starfire looked at the bus and realized he was right as she faked a giggle and had a sweat drop coming down the side of her head.

T-T-T-T-T-T-T-T-T-T

For the past fifteen minutes, they were talking about each other and their planets. It was almost like their first date and they don't know each other yet. Just as they were getting to know each other further, Robin asked a question quite original for any boy to say to a girl.

Robin: "So, what's a girl like you doing in a place like this?"

Star knows what he means by that, so she told half the truth to him, leaving the other half for herself.

Starfire: "I am here for observation on this planet."

Robin: "Observation?"

Starfire: "Indeed, on some occasion when a young Tamranean male or female turn seventeen on their birthday, they must venture out and explore the planet they have chosen. I choose Earth because I heard they had many new customs I never heard of. But the problem is that I don't know much about paying for these, "hotels", understanding their languages, and they don't have the foods that I eat on Tamaran. And after what happened with those delinquents, I don't know where to live or who I can trust."

Robin listened to everything she said and could understand how it feels. It then occurred to him that he came with an idea to make her happy.

Robin: "Why not stay where I live, we got plenty of room."

Starfire: "Really?"

Robin nodded.

Starfire: "And what do you mean by we?"

Robin: "You see, I'm not just a hero. I am also a leader of a group of teenagers with special gifts. We call ourselves, the Teen Titans. We kind of started it a few months ago but we're getting the hang of working together as a team. Of course we're only four members including me, but we like to bring some new blood into the business."

Starfire: "You think I would qualify?"

Robin: "Of course you could qualify. I mean look at you! You're strong, powerful, beautiful, and you got a smile that will make anyone happy. Besides, the team is in need of some cheerfulness around the Tower. I mean Beast Boy's jokes are getting lamer by the minute and Raven is never in a good mood. Trust me, when you see her, you'll find out why."

Starfire was a little concerned about this team Robin said. But she then thought that maybe it's a good opportunity to understand the customs on Earth, to make some friends, to make herself feel at home. But then she wondered, where was Robin's home.

Starfire: "Friend Robin, where do you live."

Robin blushed when he saved her ten minutes ago and now she's calling him a friend.

Robin: "It's not that hard to spot, but it's a tower on a island that's shaped like a bit T."

End Flashback…

That was when she first met Robin and began her new life as a member of the Teen Titans. Kori couldn't help but remembered the times when she saw Robin for the first time, making friends with the original Titans, the intense training they put her through, and making her an official member. It was the most greatest day of her life. She placed the clipping on the floor next to her and rustled through all of Robin's belongings and found something she never expected to find. She took out what appeared to be a small thin white strip that had four pictures of both her and Robin taking different posses. The last picture was her younger self kissing Robin on the cheek very sloppily, with the Boy Wonder in a state of both shock and surprise behind his eye mask. Upon inspecting the picture, she finally realized what it is.

Kori Anders: "Wait a minute! I remember this!"

Flashback…

It's been a month and a half since Star became a Titan, and she was slowly getting use to some of the customs on Earth. One of them is something everyone calls, shopping. Ever since she heard about people going to the "Mall of Shopping" she couldn't help but to head down to this place a see for herself. Of course Robin tagged along, just incase Starfire lost her way and soon after he realizes that he had become Star's personal bag holder. Starfire was walking down the corridor loaded with shops on both ends and stands offering lame gifts holding two bags from both Nordstrom and Macy, while Robin was carrying multiple bags from Limited Too, Gap, H & M, JC Penney, Old Navy, Victoria Secrets, and Lady Foot Locker. Star kept looking around the area and couldn't believe what she was seeing.

Starfire: "This is such an amazing place. I have heard about the mall of shopping from a few locals but I never expected anything like this. I almost look like a sacred temple!"

Robin: "Yeah, where people worship their credit cards. Urgh… You think you can help me out and lighten this load? I need these arms for combat you know."

Starfire: "But I thought that when a man and a woman go to the mall together, the man has to hold their bags for her."

Robin: "And who told you that?"

Starfire: "Beast Boy."

Robin sighed when he heard the changeling's name and should've guessed it came from him.

Robin: "I am so going to have a talk with Beast Boy about this when it's over."

The two kept walking until Starfire spotted a rectangular like object sitting beside the wall. There was an opening at one end with a curtain covering it, and designs covering most of it. She kept observing the strange object, not sure what it was."

Starfire: "Robin, what is that?"

Robin looked at the object too and knew what it was since he's from Earth.

Robin: "Oh, that's a photo booth."

Starfire: "Photo booth?"

Robin: "Yeah, it's a machine where it can create pictures of people. You see, when two or three people get in, they put the money in a small slot, wait a few seconds, and flash! You get four small sets of pictures of the people taking different poses. It's as simple as that."

Star kept looking at the booth, then came up with an idea. She then turned her head to see Robin.

Starfire: "Can we go in this booth and take pictures of ourselves?"

Robin: "I don't see why not."

The two headed to the photo booth, put the shopping bags next to it, and entered the curtain. When Starfire was the first to enter, she was quite fascinated at the inside. There was a bench for them to sit and take picture on one side. On the other side was a camera molded into the wall, below it was a TV screen that shows the two faces, coin deposit slot to slip in a little money, and a long wire that's attached to the wall with a little control grip that has only a red button. As soon as both Titans sat down, Robin inserted three quarters into the slot and held on to the controller. He looked at Starfire and smiled.

Robin: "Are you ready?"

Starfire nodded as Robin pushed the red button. They smiled for the first picture as the flash brought forth an intense white light and it was gone the next second. Star rubbed her eyes a little trying to get the spots out of them as Robin chuckled.

Robin: "Don't worry about the spots, it will disappear after a while. Ready for the next one?"

Starfire looked at Robin, still trying to get the spots out of her eyes and smiled.

Starfire: "Yes."

Robin: "All right then. Look at the camera and say cheese!"

Both Rob and Star looked at the Camera and said…

Starfire: "CHEESE!"

Soon enough they took two more pictures. One of them was the two giving the peace sign, which Robin helped her in doing, and another doing Starfire's own Tamaranean sign that stands for peace. It was then that they come to the last picture.

Robin: "Well this is it, the last picture. Is there anything you want to do for this picture?"

Starfire thought about it for a second then came up with something that made her grin.

Starfire: "As a matter of fact, I do. But if you don't mind if you can close your eyes and face this camera that's in front of us?"

Robin raised his eyebrow up a little and wasn't sure what she was up to. But he decided to go along with it.

Robin: "Uh… O.K."

He looked at the camera and closed his eyes behind his mask.

Starfire: "Now, on the count of three, I want you to open your eyes and pushed that red button your holding."

Robin nodded and waited for Starfire to say it. But Star just turned to see Robin being a patient enough to know what she's doing. Star positioned her face on the right spot for her to do her special surprise for him. When she was ready to do this, she talked to him to give him the three.

Starfire: "O.K. One, two, three!"

Robin opened his eyes the same time Star planted a kiss on the Boy Wonder's right cheek. Robin's eyes were completely wide, unprepared for what she just did the same time he pushed the red button and a flash appeared. After that, Robin jumped out of the booth and wipes the saliva and lipstick remnants on his cheek. Star then exit the booth and had that innocent look on her face.

Starfire: "Oh, I'm sorry. Did I just surprise you?"

Robin looked at Star, still shocked at what she done.

Robin: "Surprised? I was completely off guard! Why did you do that?"

Star bowed her head down in disappointment as she playfully twitled her fingers.

Starfire: "Well, I was told that young females do that to young males when they're out together."

Robin: "And who told that? Let me guess, Beast Boy right?"

Starfire: "No, it was Raven."

Robin was in disbelief that Raven of all people would tell Starfire that.

Robin: "I see… Well then, I think it's time to head back to the Tower. I have to have a long talk with two friends of mine. You're ready to go Star?"

Starfire looked up and tried her best to forget about the innocent incident.

Starfire: "I'm ready."

Robin: "Good, let's go."

Robin approached the booth, picked up some of the bags and left Starfire at the booth. While she was there, Star looked at the thin strip of paper that came out of the silver bowl like rack and took it out. She looked at it and saw the last picture she did with Robin. Once she saw it, she felt a little embarrassed at the whole thing.

Starfire: "I guess I overdid it a little. But I'm pretty sure he liked it. … Did he?"

Star moved her shoulders up for an "I don't know" after asking herself a question. Not knowing how to answer it, she placed the strip of photos into one of the bags; picked up the rest of the bags Robin left behind, and followed Robin out of the mall and into the parking lot.

End Flashback…

Kori shook her head in disbelief, as she couldn't believe that she did something so ridiculous as that. Just be thankful that she learned how to kiss better, or she would've been a sloppy kisser. She put away the strip and continued the search through old memories. Upon her search, she found something that caught her eyes. She took it out of the box and examines it. What she discovered was a picture of her younger self sporting a long purple wig, a pink ballerina outfit with a tutu, and clown makeup on her face. She was riding a unicycle very clumsily and trying her best juggling three bowling pins. Of course in the picture, she fell off the unicycle with bowling pins flying in different directions. Her jaw dropped and was shock to see the picture like that in her pocession.

Kori Anders: "What is this picture doing here? And when did this happen?"

After giving a moment to put it all together, she then remembered how she got into that predicament.

Flashback…

In the commons area of Titans Tower, Starfire was sitting in the middle of the wrap around couch watching Teletubbies on the TV/Window. She was quite interested in a bunch of multicolored alien babies running around in the field with a sun that has a face of a baby laughing with them. While she was watching them having fun, two people raised up behind the couch with the Tamaranean sitting on it. Star saw the shadows from the ground and turned around to see who was behind her. Turns out the two people were her friends; Cyborg and Beast Boy, smiling at her and had a strange look on their faces.

Beast Boy: "Hey Starfire…"

Starfire: "Oh hello friends. Are you here to watch Tinky Winky play tag with his friends?"

Cyborg: "Uh… We'll pass. But we're here for something else. You know that you've been on this team for four months now right?"

Starfire: "Um… Correct."

Cyborg: "So me and BB were thinking that since you're still new here, now it's time to give you the initiation."

Starfire: "Initiation, what is that?"

Beast Boy: "Well, an initiation is a test every newbie takes to prove that they are really qualified to be on our team."

Starfire: "But I thought that I became part of the team after my training skills and proved my powers on my first mission."

Cyborg: "That maybe true but they mean nothing to this. The initiation is the supreme test to verify that you're one of us."

Starfire: "I see. Did Robin approve of this initiation for the team?"

Beast Boy: "Of course he did. In fact, when we started the Teen Titans, Robin created this initiation so we can see if anyone got the guts to join us. Hell, Raven was the first one to get through with the initiation and she passed it with flying colors. I'm sure you can do the same."

Starfire gave this some thought and decided to do this initiation. So she looked at her two teammates with a glimmer in her emerald eyes.

Starfire: "I'll accept this initiation. Tell me what to do."

Both Beast Boy and Cyborg looked at each other with wide grins on their faces and were chuckling to themselves.

T-T-T-T-T-T-T-T-T-T

Fifteen minutes later, Robin and Raven entered the Tower and were heading straight to the living room. They have gone to Jump City Penetechery to help take a dangerous criminal to one of the cellblocks. It was a bit rough, but they managed to control him. And after that experience, all they wanted to do is to sit back, and read a book or watch the television.

Robin: "Man that was tough. Who would've thought that Steamroller could be violent and destructive at the same time?"

Raven: "Well they said he was hard to control. He kind of reminds me of Cyborg when he's on a freaking shopping spree for computer parts and equipment."

Robin: "heh heh… Yeah, except he doesn't trash the display booths and shelves."

Robin started laughing about it, but Raven kept her cool and was still her monotone self.

Raven: "You know, you should've known better then to let the others leave while we have to deal with that construction vehicle reject."

Robin: "I know that, but I thought I give Starfire a little brake since she's still and newbie and Cyborg and Beast Boy had the worse of it. Last thing I want is for them to get hurt. Besides, they're safe at the Tower. How bad can it be?"

The two approached the two metal doors leading to the common room. Once the doors opened and they entered, the first thing they saw was something they will never forget. In the middle of the room was Starfire wearing a purple wig, pink ballerina outfit with a tutu, and clown makeup on her face. She was riding on a unicycle, trying to gain her balance, juggling three sets of bowling pins, and was saying the alphabet backwards.

Starfire: "R Q P O N M L K J I H…"

While she was making a fool of herself, Cyborg and Beast Boy were taking pictures with their special cameras used to make photography for newspapers.

Beast Boy: "Ah yeah, that's it Star. You're doing great!"

Cyborg: "Just keep it up for just a little longer. We got few pictures to take before you pass."

The two continued to franticly take pictures of the embarrassed girl, unaware that both Robin and Raven were watching the whole thing and was too shocked for words. Raven looked at Robin and smirked.

Raven: "Well, that answered your question."

Robin remained speechless for a few more second until the anger inside of him build up and exploded.

Robin: "What the HELL IS GOING ON HERE!"

Both Cy and BB stopped when they heard Robin's voice. They then turned around with worried and scared looks on their faces. Starfire also saw Robin and was happy to see him.

Starfire: "Oh hello friend Robin, who are yoooooooOOOOOUUUUUUU!"

Of course that made her loose her balance as she fell off the unicycle and landed flat on her back with the bowling pins scattering around her. Robin and Raven then rushed past the two troublemakers and came to Star's aid. The Boy Wonder then kneeled and checked to see if she's hurt in any way.

Robin: "Starfire, are you all right?"

Starfire, besides a little back pain, miraculously sat up and looked at Robin with a pleasing smile.

Starfire: "Of course I am Robin, I am fine."

Robin: "Then mind telling me what were you doing a second ago?"

Starfire: "Oh, I was in the process of finishing with the initiation Beast Boy and Cyborg told me about."

Robin: "Initiation?"

Starfire: "Yes, the final test to prove I am Titan material. I mean you were the one who agreed to make it official."

Robin: "What? I never made something like this official!"

Starfire: "But Cyborg and Beast Boy said you did and they told me how this initiation works."

Raven: "Starfire, just a bit of advice. Whatever Beast Boy and Cyborg tells you to do something, just don't listen to them."

Star looked at Raven and was curious at one thing.

Starfire: "But Raven, they said that you took the initiation yourself and you liked it."

Raven directed her head to glare at Beast Boy and Cyborg that were slowly shifting back with their cameras in hand.

Raven: "Actually, I took the initiation and was embarrassed at the highest level. That's when I completely beat them up and gave them nightmares for three weeks straight."

Star looked at her two scared friends and couldn't believe what she heard.

Starfire: "Is all that true?"

Beast Boy: "Well, yeah it's true. I still have a few bruises from the last time she pummeled me."

Cyborg: "Yeah, and those nightmares she gave me can make Freddy Kruger cry out for mommy. I had to play video games and drink cans of Pepsi all night to help me stay awake."

Robin stood up and approached the two looking more nervous then ever. He then spotted the cameras they had in their hands then looked at the scared faces.

Robin: "I guess you were taking pictures of her acting like a complete moron."

Beast Boy: "Uh… Yeah, we did. She was a natural at it. And you should've seen her fall a couple of times, it was hilarious!"

Cyborg peered his head close to Beast Boy's and whispered into his ear.

Cyborg: "Beast Boy, Iksnay on the icturepa."

Beast Boy realized he made a mistake.

Beast Boy: "Oh! Uh…. Opsee."

Robin: "We need to talk about this, alone!"

Beast Boy: "C'mon Robin, can't you take a joke? I mean we're just having fun with Star."

Robin walked past the two, grabbed them by the ear, and dragged them out of the room while they owed in agony.

Robin: "Well the fun time is officially over for you two. And trust me, when I'm done talking to you guys, you're going to learn your lesson."

As the boys left, the two Titan girls were standing there when Raven lift Starfire up. Star kept starring at her friend, a bit confused on what just happened.

Starfire: "This isn't an initiation? Did I do something wrong?"

Raven: "You didn't, they did. Now come on, let me wash you up and get rid of those clothes. Don't want you to remain like that all day."

The two girls left the living room and headed to the bathroom to clean up.

End Flashback…

Kori couldn't help but to burst out in laughter. That has got to be the most embarrassing thing she had ever done in her life. She even remembered Tim signing Garfield and Victor up for cleaning up the Tower from top to bottom. Yet she couldn't help but to blame herself, for she was the one that accepted the "initiation" in the first place. But who could blame her, she was once so curious and naïve when she came to Earth. Oh how much she changed over the years. Kori put away that picture and continued her search. She then spotted something that might be really interesting. What she took out of the box was one of Robin's masks he usually wears all day. But she remembers the time she saw him without the mask on for the very first time.

Flashback…

It was 10:00 at night in Titans Tower and the team was getting ready for a good night's sleep, especially Robin since there was no word of Slade around town. But in the tower, Starfire was walking through the hallway and was heading to the first room. Every night, Starfire would write something down in her own personal diary where she could discuss about the events she experienced day after day. When she was going to write, she found out that her pen was missing. She search everywhere in her room to find it but there was no luck. It was then that she decided to go to one of her friend's rooms and borrow a pen from them. And of course, the first room she went to was Robin's. She approached the door and started knocking it a few times to see if someone's there.

Starfire: "Hello, friend Robin. Are you in there? I need a favor to ask of you and I'm seeking a pen for my journal entries. You mind if I can borrow yours?"

She waited for a response, but there was none.

Starfire: "Robin?"

She was about to knock again when she realized that there was a small little crack opening on the right side. In her mind, she thought that Robin must've forgotten to close the door or something. She also knows that she's not allowed to enter his room without permission. But she wanted to borrow a pen from someone and she doesn't want to disturb anyone else, especially Raven. So she swallowed her pride and slips her fingers through the small opening.

Starfire: "Guess I have no choice."

She used her strength to open the door a little so that she has room to enter. Once she's in Robin's room, she started her search for a pen while checking to see if Robin is still there.

Starfire: "Robin? If you're in here, I would apologize in advance for intruding in your sleeping quarters. But I need to borrow something of yours for a little while so this won't take long."

As she kept looking for a pen, she saw nothing but newspaper clippings, a punching bag, a few weapons lying around, and other stuff that was on the floor.

Starfire: "He should learn how to clean up. This place is a mess."

She then approached a work desk Robin used to put the clues together. Upon further inspection, she spotted a pen resting next to a pad of paper and today's recent headline. She smiled with glee and picked up the pen, feeling joyful at her accomplishment.

Starfire: "I better return to my room before Robin gets angry at me for trespassing."

She was about to turn around and headed back the way she came. But when she turned around, she spotted something on top of Robin's bed. It was Robin's uniform laying wrinkled on the sheets but what made her more interested is the eye mask that was set next to his titanium cape. She picked it up and took a closer look at it.

Starfire: "Robin's mask."

As far as she remembered, she has always seen Robin with his mask on all the time. Even when they're outside, he always keeps it on and never takes it off. His teammates don't know what his eyes look like, not even herself. So she comes to wonder, what his eyes look like. Just before she can make any quick guesses, the door opened up and Robin came in wearing a red robe with an "R" symbol on his left side. When he stepped in, he was shock to see Starfire in his room. When Star looked up to see him in total surprise, Robin quickly turned his face away and covered his eyes before Star had the chance. But when Starfire looked at him, she could've sworn that she saw a glimpse of blue.

Robin: "Starfire? Wha- What are you doing here?"

Starfire quickly bowed and apologized for breaking and entering.

Starfire: "Please forgive my intrusion, but I need to borrow a pen for my diary. Don't need your help though cause I already have one."

Robin: "Well now that you have one, can you please leave my room so that I can dress up and go to bed?"

Starfire remained silent for a moment until she came up with an idea.

Starfire: "I will Robin, but first, I have to ask a favor from you."

Robin: "What is it Star? Tell me what you need so that I can have my privacy."

Starfire: "Of course. Do you mind if I… if I see your eyes?"

Robin turned his head back to Starfire, even though he was still covering his face with his arm, and was a little confused with the question.

Robin: "See my eyes? Starfire, what are you talking about?"

Starfire walked to Robin and answered his question.

Starfire: "You see, ever since I've been on this team, I have always seen you on the outside, but not on the inside."

She looked down at the mask and continued talking.

Starfire: "This mask, it covers the most important part of you, your eyes. It's so secretive, so secluded, it makes me and my friends guess at what's behind them. Blackfire was right on one thing; your mask makes you look very mysterious. I thought, just once, if I can see your eyes."

Robin: "Star, I don't think that will be a good idea. I mean I feel comfortable with the mask on and I really need them right-"

Starfire: "Are you my friend Robin?"

Robin was a little overzealous at what she said.

Robin: "Starfire, what are you saying?"

Starfire: "Are you?"

Robin gave it some thought and decided not to anger the alien girl.

Robin: "Of course I'm your friend."

Starfire: "Then as friends, we share everything together and not leave everything to ourselves. Those eyes you hide behind your mask are keeping you from revealing it to the world. And I think it would be best if you would show it to me since you're my friend."

Robin didn't know what to do. He kept his identity a secret ever since he became Batman's partner. He can never reveal his identity to anyone, especially Starfire. But then he thought that maybe it's not a bad idea after. I mean he's just going to show her his eyes, it's not like he's revealing his real name and tough history. But he's also afraid that she'll tell everyone his eye color and he doesn't want that to happen. So he made his decision.

Robin: "All right Starfire, I will show you. But before you do, I want you to promise me that you will never tell anyone about this. Got it."

Starfire thought about it for a second and then answered.

Starfire: "Of course Robin, I promise."

Robin removed his arm out of his face but had his eyes closed. Sighing, he had no other choice.

Robin: "All right, here goes nothing."

He slowly opened his eyes to let Starfire see his true self. What she saw made her speechless. His eyes were a sparkling sky blue that shines through the light. She placed her hand on his cheek and took a closer look at them. When she was done, she said one word that will make this moment memorable.

Starfire: "Beautiful…"

She stared in awe at the Boy Wonder's wonderful eyes and couldn't help but stare at them all day.

Starfire: "I have never seen eyes as unique and eloquent as yours. They look so sweet and gorgeous. How come you always hide them behind your mask all day?"

Robin lowered his head and shook it.

Robin: "Now you know why I became a sidekick of a human bat."

Robin left Starfire's place and approached the window looking at the city view. Star looked at him the whole time.

Starfire: "Robin?"

After looking at the view he put his head down and started his story.

Robin: "When I started joining forces with Batman I made a promise that when I put on the mask, I will never reveal my identity to anyone. Because if I do, my enemies will know and won't stop at nothing until they take me down. When I have that mask on, I became a complete different person. After I was done being a sidekick, I thought about going solo. You know, try to become the hero everyone worships. But when Beast Boy and Cyborg came by and we became a team, things have gotten a whole lot more complicated for me living a normal life and a hero life. So I was left with only one option, to remain the hero that everyone looks up to for help. That is why I need to wear that mask everyday, even if I'm having a day off, I have to keep my secret identity a secret no matter what."

Starfire was silenced when she heard Robin's story and was sadden to know that the Boy Wonder had to keep his secret safe. Maybe that's why he promised her to not tell anyone about this, even her friends. Just the story made Starfire asked another question.

Starfire: "Robin, what was your life like before you became a hero?"

Robin looked at Starfire and chuckled at the question.

Robin: "Now that's a secret I can't share with you Star. Let's just say that it's a past so tough that you don't understand what it feels like to experience it."

Star approached the Boy Wonder.

Starfire: "It doesn't matter if you have a past, even if it's dark. All I know is that your eyes tell the story of your life. You know you can't hide your eyes from a mask forever, nor can we be heroes for the rest of our lives. When the time comes, you have to remove the mask and reveal your glorious eyes to the world."

Robin: "It's not going to be that easy Starfire."

Starfire: "It doesn't matter. No matter what happens, you'll always be the Robin that I knew for so long."

It was then that Starfire gave Robin a warm, embarrassing, hug. But this wasn't the bone-crushing hug that squeezes her friends to death; this hug was a soft and loving hug. Robin was surprised at the way she acted, but couldn't help but feel curious about the boy's mysterious secret. In fact, he liked the fact that he's being hugged by the very same girl he saved the first day they met. Before he could enjoy the moment, he realized that he still doesn't have the most prize pocesion on him. He looked down at Starfire and asked her for a favor.

Robin: "Uh… Starfire?"

Starfire looked at him and smiled.

Starfire: "Yes Robin."

Robin: "Can I have my mask back?"

Starfire cocked her head to the side, not knowing what he meant until she looked deep into his eyes. It was then she realized what he means.

Starfire: "Oh… Sorry Robin, here."

Starfire let go of the hug and handed him the eye mask. He took the mask and placed it on his face, over his eyes. Star was a little upset about this on the outside, but on the inside, she was glad to see Robin's eyes for the first time. After readjusting his mask, he looked at Starfire.

Robin: "Since that you got what you want. Can you please leave so I can put on my clothes and go to sleep?"

Starfire: "Of course Robin, I'll leave you alone in your room. Pleasant slorvax."

Robin: "Yeah, good night to you too."

Starfire smiled, turned around, and was heading to the door that goes back to the hallway. But before she could leave, Robin added something else to her.

Robin: "Starfire…"

She turned back to see his face again when she heard her name.

Robin: "Thanks for everything."

Star had a wider smile, as she knows what he means. Then, without thinking it, she rushed him and gave him a kiss on the lips. Robin didn't came prepare for that at all as his eyes behind his mask went wide in surprise. Just as it was started, it ended in a second. She then left the room and headed to her room to write her diary on an entry she will never forget while Robin stood there on confusion. He couldn't believe that Starfire kissed him in a long time. He remembers the first time Star kissed him on the lips, but it was for knowledge of the English language. But this one, this one was different. Could it be that it was passion? Robin gave that some thought but decided to ignore that for a second. Besides, no matter how it looked, he loved it.

End Flashback…

That was the first time Kori saw Tim's eyes. She remembered it like it was yesterday. She kept her promise that day when she kept Robin's eyes a secret. Of course that's when he revealed his eyes to everyone the night Persephone kissed so the team can find out where Slade was hiding. It's actually the same day the LM joined the team to help them stop Slade and destroy the Alterer that would change the world forever. She couldn't help but to shrug it off when Robin kissed a total stranger, but she knew it was for a good reason. She even tried to kiss him that way the night before he was murdered, the very same night Nightfire was created. That memory brought tears to her eyes. Dropping the mask, she put her hands on her face and immediately started to cry about it. She misses Tim so much, she wanted him to be with her, to be a couple, to raise their daughter, but she knew it would never happen. It was then that the answer to her first question was right. Tori was right.

Kori Anders: "Robin…"

T-T-T-T-T-T-T-T-T-T

An hour later, the door upstairs from the basement opened up and Victor walked in and descended down the steps. As he was heading down stairs, he called out Kori's name.

Cyborg: "Kori! C'mon girl, where you at?"

It has been an hour and no one had seen Ms. Anders anywhere in the tower. So they all decided to search the area to see if she was somewhere in one of the floors. While the others searched the separate floors, Cyborg volunteered on going through the basement. Once he reached the bottom floor, he combed through the stacks of boxes to see if she was anywhere. After searching a few corners, he found her lying on the floor surrounded by three boxes that belong to Robin, Starfire, and Nightfire. Scattered around her were birdarangs, pictures, newspaper clippings, Nightfire's projects when she was a kid, and Kori's old diary when she was a Titan. She was hugging her stuffed bear Grop Grop, the same bear she won at the carnival the night Robin was killed by Johnny Rancid, and held on to it tightly. Cyborg observed her very closely and all the nick knacks that laid around her. Upon looking, he smiled and said a name he never said in a long time.

Cyborg: "Starfire."

That was when Kori opened her eyes and looked at Victor.

Kori Anders: "Cyborg? Is that you?"

Vic nodded as Kori sat up and chuckled at the name he said.

Kori Anders: "I swear to X'hal, you haven't said my Titan name since I made my official retirement."

Cyborg: "Sorry Kor, but couldn't help it when you have remnants of the past surrounding you. So what are you doing anyways, Spring Cleaning?"

Kori Anders: "No, nothing like that. I was just… collecting on some old memories."

Cy looked at the pictures and saw most of them were of Robin's. He set the jokes aside and looked at the Tamaranean with a serious face.

Cyborg: "You know looking at his photos won't bring him back."

Kori looked down at the pictures Cyborg saw and she too was serious and looking up at him.

Kori Anders: "I know that. I was just thinking about something."

Cyborg: "Thinking?"

Kori stood up and discussed what happen to her.

Kori Anders: "Up on the Tower's roof, Tori and I had another fight."

Cyborg: "Another one?"

Kori nodded.

Kori Anders: "But this fight was different. You see, she has found the vortex regulator in the evidence room. The very same room that our kids were not allowed to enter, even with our permission. Anyways, she wanted to use it to go back in time and save her father from being killed. But I refused on that because she would hurt or kill herself if she goes to the past. We argued about this over and over again until she said something that got me thinking. She said that I have forgotten Robin. She then said the word that I truly disgust. She called me a Troq! I slapped her in the face for doing that, but I'm afraid I made things much worse."

Cyborg: "That could explain why she was crying the whole time."

Kori Anders: "What?"

Vic looked up at the door and explained.

Cyborg: "She was up in her room all night crying her eyes out. We tried to talk to her and all but she won't come out, even her teammates tried to do it but no luck. We thought that something terrible happened. Now I know what it is."

Kori Anders: "So she's still mad at me?"

Cy looked back at her.

Cyborg: "By the way it looks, yeah, I guess so."

She bowed her head and shook it.

Kori Anders: "So I was right, I made things much worse."

Victor noticed a tear coming down her face, so he placed his metal hands on her shoulders and comfort her.

Cyborg: "It's all right Kor, you made a mistake. That's what all mothers do when they're angry at their children. But like all mothers, you have to be strong for Tori."

Kori looked up and responded back.

Kori Anders: "That's the problem. I've been strong for my daughter, but I wasn't strong for Tim."

Kori brushed Vic's hands away from her shoulders as she walked to one of Nightfire's projects when she was only five. She bent down, picked it up, and looked at the picture. It showed every Titan and their kids with Titans Tower in the background and names at the bottom. But what she was looking at was Robin above them with angel wings. She traced her finger on the Robin character and sighed.

Kori Anders: "Ever since she was born, Nightfire always wondered where was her father inside that tiny mind of hers. It's true that I took care of her well and gave her everything she'd ever wanted, but there was one thing I never give that's most precious to her. And that was her father, my soon to be husband, my love of my life, Timothy "Robin" Drake. When she grew up to become a leader, she was no longer the daughter I once knew. She's more tough, cocky, risky, obsessed, determined."

Cyborg: "Heh… She kind of reminds me of Robin."

She looked at Cyborg and couldn't help but laugh a little.

Kori Anders: "You could say that. She certainly has more of his traits then mine. But behind all that bravery and kindness is the same loneliness I feel. She wanted to see him for the first time as I wanted to see him again. But I know that it will never happen. And now that she knows about the regulator, she will do anything to bring him back. But I can't let her do that because I'm afraid of her safety. Do you think what I did was right. That I want her to go to Tamaran with and be betrothed instead of going back in time and rescue someone she doesn't know about? Do you?"

Cyborg shook his head and asked her the same question.

Cyborg: "Well the question you need to ask yourself is, do you think it was right?"

Kori remained silent for the whole time, still not sure if she's going to answer it. Cy shook his hand again and gave her the details.

Cyborg: "Listen, I know you don't like it as much as I do, but she deserves to do this or she'll be sad for the rest of her life. I mean this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to bring back what she never had and make you feel happy once again. I mean, who else would have a shot at bringing someone back from the dead and have a complete life?"

Kori Anders: "But what will she do when she goes back to the past? I mean she'll be all alone in the city with no one to turn to. Not only that, but she won't know when the murder is going to take place."

Cyborg: "Don't worry about that Kor, cause she'll be getting some help."

Kori Anders: "Help from who?"

Cyborg: "From us, our past selves. She will come to them to help her search for Johnny and take him down before he crosses the line."

Kori gave that some thought and asked him another question.

Kori Anders: "But what about keeping our future selves a secret? In time they will know who she really is."

Cyborg: "I'm pretty sure she can keep it a secret. Ask for the past Titans that will find out, well… she's on her own on that."

Kori Anders: "And what about the future itself? Surely that when she saves Tim, she will alter the fabric of space and time and change everything forever!"

Cyborg: "Even if she does that, I do believe that everything will still be the same, except that you will be together again with Tim. And if the future does change dramatically, that's a risk you have to take. So let me ask you one more time, do you think what you did was right?"

Kori gave everything he said some thought. Sure she doesn't like the fact the Night will be in the past to save Robin and would alter the future in one-way or another. But this is her only chance to have him back in her arms and to let Nightfire see him for the first time. And she won't be alone on this one, since the Titans of the past will help her out on the mission and keep her company. So after a few minutes, she looked at Victor and came to a decision.

Kori Anders: "No, I don't think it's right for me to choose her fate. Tori will have to choose it for herself if it makes her happy."

Cyborg smiled at the answer.

Cyborg: "Then you know what must be done."

Kori nodded as the two left the storage area and headed upstairs. But the question Kori thought was, "Is Nightfire ready?"

Finally, done with this chapter that took me almost a month. Sorry about the multiple T's in between, but the break line isn't working and I have to use the second approach to make this stroy not so confusing. And with a chapter this long, you know that the last chapter will make this more loving yet at the same time, intriguing. So on the last chapter, Tori's fate rest in her hands, as she gets ready for the adventure of her lifetime. Please Review.