Titans' Tower was finally graced with lit halls, as well as its inhabitants, the Titans themselves. Though they were only gone for mere days, it seemed like an eternity to not only them, but the citizens of the city itself. After Raven's wake, the people of Jump City wished to involve themselves with the Titans, they wanted to know everything about them, support them, and even provide aid to them in any way possible. Anything from gifts from supports, such as fan clubs and whatnot, to even large, multi-million dollar business and conglomerates providing new technology and equipment for them and the Tower itself. Though much appreciated on their behalf, it was just ironic that they wait to provide help until after one of their own fell in the line of duty. Yet, time goes on, and so will they, or that is what is to be thought at the moment. Though Starfire managed to make a full recovery from her serious wounds received by Blood, Nightwing had sworn an oath to her, and they both had made the decision. No matter how painful it will be, it is necessary to the fullest degree. This may not be as tragic as Raven's passing, but Nightwing and Starfire both know it will be just as devastating. Not only to them, but to their friends, the effect could even spread to the citizens of Jump City, as things of this nature tend to have a shockwave effect. Nothing can stop its might, and it only spreads. Late in the evening, just after dinner, the Titans are enjoying the much-needed relaxation of what had happened less than a week ago. Luckily for them, the villains and other evil-doers of Jump City itself managed to stay under their radar, still reminded of the effects of Slade's mighty downfall at their hands.
"There's nothing on T.V.," the changeling groaned, flipping from one channel to the next, finding the shows repeating themselves as he continued to pass over them, still attempting to find anything worth his time.
"Tell me about it," Cyborg added, letting out a sigh as he leaned back in the couch.
"I would be able to find something if you would stop on a channel for more than half a second," Terra grumbled beside of him, reaching for the remote control.
"Hey now! It's my turn for the remote, your's is tomorrow," he protested, attempting to stay her reach for it.
"Give it here!" She playfully ordered, the two of them enjoying it more than anything.
"Keep it down, both of you," Cyborg commented, watching the television change channels at random when a button was pressed in their faux struggle for it with a blank expression. "I've seen worse things spawn out of boredom, at least this isn't boring." He added, watching them squabble over the channel-changing device.
It was obvious both of them had cast off the doubt at what was between them, and began rekindling what relationship they had before. For Terra, it was the happiest moment in her life, and probably would be for the entirety of it. As for B.B., things seemed to be a little different for him. He did indeed enjoy Terra's companionship, but there was always going to be something…missing. That something was what was between him and Raven. Nothing can bring that back, and it has been accepted by him, but there is still a void present he must comfort on a daily basis. The truth is finally becoming a little easier to comprehend, but will forever plague him, must like it does all of them. Things seemed to slow down amongst the battle for the remote, Cyborg's attention immediately grabbed as he watched the duo's lips had met, sharing a kiss between themselves.
"Oh, get a room, you two," Cyborg jeered in a playful manner, tossing one of the pillows upon the couch at them, hitting Beast Boy with it.
B.B. released Terra, grinning in Cyborg's direction.
"You're just jealous, Cy," he replied, throwing it back at him.
"Please," he stated, catching the pillow, "with guns like these…" he motioned, flexing his arms, the remaining human part of them responding, "how could the ladies resist me?"
"Don't forget about all the optional equipment," Beast Boy stated sarcastically, "like the phone built into your arm, the cybernetic eye, oh, can't forget about the Sonic Cannon. Chicks really dig that kind of thing, Cy, you're a keeper."
"Being snot green with fangs and barely five foot tall is considered "attractive" all of a sudden?" Cyborg informed the changeling, enjoying in the exchange of teasing.
"I find it attractive," Terra commented with a smirk, "it makes him…unique."
"So does having birth defects and mental disabilities, but you don't see women flocking over men with those, do you?" Cyborg said, inciting the conversation further.
"Possibly," Beast Boy continued, acting as if he was thinking, "that would explain why they tend to shy away from you so much, Cy."
Cyborg stood up, acting as he were about to do something, the changeling doing the same.
"Alright, boys," Terra interjected, standing between them, pushing them apart, "that's enough."
Cyborg continued to look at Beast Boy with seriousness, but it soon faded to that of stifled laughter, which didn't last long either.
"I'm just messing with you, B.B.," he commented, hugging him in a friendly manner with one arm.
"Same here, Cy, I think I'd know if you were serious or not," the changeling replied, slipping away form him, "besides, I would know what would happen if I did make you mad."
"Besides me wiping the floor with your sorry behind?"
"Close," he laughed, "I would be running away. It's a proven scientific fact that I can run faster scared than you can angry, Cy. You're smart, so I'm sure you figured that one out already on your own."
Cyborg merely shook his head as he chuckled, wishing he knew exactly where his friend came up with thoughts and ideas such as that. Maybe it would also explain where all of his awful jokes and attempts of being funny in any way originated as well.
"Seriously though, man," Beast Boy stated as they continued to shuffle about the room, feeling as if they had their share of sitting for the evening, "I'm bored out of my mind. I've got to do…something, anything, as long as it's fun."
"I've got an idea or two," Terra thought to herself, knowing it would only bring up ridicule on her behalf by Cyborg, inferred or not.
"Let's just hang out," Cyborg suggested, "all of us go out for the night, together, as friends. Come on, we haven't done that for a long time. I can't remember the last time we we-"
"It was with Raven, Cy," Beast Boy interrupted, "that was the last time we went out as a group of friends for fun. So yeah, it's about time we're due for it. Go round the Nightwing and Star up, we'll be waiting in the car."
"Yeah, sure man," Cyborg replied, finally relieved that it didn't truly physically pain him to utter her name anymore, but quickly turned back as the two of them began walking hand-in-hand towards the elevator. "Hey! Don't the two of you be getting frisky in the backseat of my car!"
"No worries, Cy!"
"I mean it! If you do, you'll find out if your little theory upon running scared is true or not!"
Beast Boy merely waved his cybernetic friend off as if he were nothing in a playful manner, turning back to face Terra.
"Last one to the T-Car is a rotten egg," he challenged with a smirk, running, Terra quickly attempting to follow, only to see him morph into a cheetah as he continued to sprint forth.
"Hey! No fair!" She yelled, running as fast as she could, but unable to even think about catching up.
"I don't know about them two," Cyborg commented to himself as he turned around to go down the hall, shaking his head, "something strange about them, but, I guess that's what they like in each other. Who am I to say otherwise?"
With a mere shrug of the shoulders, he walked down the hall, looking for the Dark Knight's former protégée and the Tameranian Princess. In recent days since returning home to the Tower, both of them were together quite often in privacy, but Cyborg knew that they weren't being intimate in any way. Something was up, but he didn't quite know what it was, and hoped it wasn't anything serious. Yet, for him, as well as the other, it would be quite different. The two figures belonging to them came forth from the dimly-lit corridor of the Tower before him.
"Oh, hey guys," he greeted, "I was just coming to get you all. We're bored out of our minds, so we're going to go hit the city and hang out. You two up for it?"
Nightwing glanced at Starfire, who minutely nodded, but by the look upon both of their faces, it wasn't with Cyborg's plans of friendship for the evening.
"Actually, Cy," Nightwing began, letting out a sigh, "I need to talk to you, all of you. It's rather important, so everyone needs to be present."
"Yeah, sure man," he obliged, "why? What's going on?"
"You'll hear soon enough," Nightwing informed, still appearing slightly upset over whatever it was that needed to be said to all. "I want everyone to hear it, it's necessary."
"Okay, I got you," Cy conceded, "let me go get Green Bean and the Rock n' Roller then."
Nightwing nodded as he turned about, going to retrieve the remaining team members of the Titans. His eyes met with Star's.
"Are you sure you still want to though with this Star?" He asked in a whisper of her as serious as he could possibly be.
"Yes, Richard," she replied, nodding gently, "it is what is best for you and I, as well as the team as a whole. I will not go back on what we have planned to inform them of."
"No matter what?" Nightwing requested of her.
Starfire looked intently into his eyes, even with the mask upon them, she could read his expression clearly.
"No matter what," she replied, showing the clash of serious with her innocent nature.
"Alright, this is it Star, no turning back," Nightwing continued as they walked into the central room of the Tower, waiting for the others to return.
"I completely trust in your judgment, Nightwing," Starfire assured, "whatever you think is best for us, then so be it. It is a difficult decision to be made though."
"I know, but it must be done, Star," he added, "I don't want you to ever get hurt like that again, and I don't want to do what I did to anyone again, let alone risk it. Your's may possibly be prevented, but I just don't know if I could stop myself from committing the same heinous act if my logic is ever overtaken by my emotions again."
She slowly nodded in agreement. As painful as it may seem to them, as well as what it would be to their friends and teammates, it must be done for the wellness of all.
"Cyborg, you playing some kinda of prank on us or something?" Beast Boy's voice echoed down the hall as the trio of remaining Titans grew closer. The pneumatic door opened as they approached Nightwing and Star in the central room.
"Come on, we've been waiting on you guys," B.B. motioned towards the door.
"Could you all take a seat please, this will only take a moment," Nightwing replied, nodding to the couch before him.
"Yeah, sure," the changeling obeyed, hopping over the back of the couch as he took his seat, Cy and Terra sitting down in a normal fashion.
It wasn't difficult to see that Nightwing had something on his mind, just by the expression upon his face, his overall demeanor added to it as well. Something must be said, but he didn't quite know how to put it.
Beast Boy leaned over to Cyborg, preparing to whisper into his ear.
"You know what this is about?"
"No, do you?"
"Why do you think I'm asking you?"
"Whatever, but all I know is it ain't good, just look at him."
"If I can have your attention," Nightwing interrupted them, causing both of them to feel slightly embarrassed. "I would like to address a certain issue with y-"
"Look, if it's something I did, I don't remember doing it, and I'm sorry for it," Beast Boy interrupted, getting a glare of equal ferocity from all present.
"Shut up, man, let him talk," Cyborg scolded, "now, Nightwing, what were you going to say?"
He paced about as he continued to think upon how he was going to explain his current dilemma to his friends, teammates, and most of all, family. Through thick and thin, they had been there for him no matter what, so this was going to be no easy task. Nightwing let out an audible sigh as he continued to pace, preparing to speak.
"In recent times," he began finally, "things have changed, rather drastically at that. In these times I speak of, starting little over a year and a half ago is that of the turbulent wake left when Raven…passed away. Indeed it has been difficult to go on, and all of us understand that she is gone, and have rightfully accepted that, even though it just seems so unrealistic. The return of Terra did help smooth the passage of time somewhat, but we all understand that nothing can ever heal the pain left by Raven's death. Now, with that said, it has…changed us. Some more than others, as we all learned that we often take life for granted, and there is nothing in this world that parallels the value of a life, whether it be one of us, or one of the countless people we protect on a daily basis. What is done is done, there is nothing we can do to reverse the passage of time and what fate has dealt us. This brings me to what I really wish to discuss with you not as teammates, but as friends and family. You must understand to the fullest degree of what I am going to attempt to explain to you."
In their silence, the Titans were more than ready to hear whatever Nightwing had to say, as he managed to gain their full attention starting with a recollection of the past, which did indeed have an impact on his words.
"Good, glad to see all of you are more than prepared to hear what I have to say not as your leader, but as a friend, as family. I know it sounds as if I am repeating myself, but is true, and you must know that. Raven's death…changed me, greatly at that. No longer have I been as reckless as I used to be, so competitive. It as if I managed to gain control of what once controlled me in our past years together. Yet, in recent times, it hasn't been to that accord. I casted off my immaturity of boyhood by stepping down as Robin, the Boy Wonder, and rising a reincarnated man of heroic wisdom as Nightwing. Not at risk sounding dramatic, this is to be as true as the words themselves. I thought I had gained knowledge and was ready for the transformation…I was wrong. My first undertaken task of becoming Nightwing had been indeed perilous, but necessary. That was to find and stop the H.I.V.E. Academy, as well as the sadistic, psychotic mastermind behind it all, Brother Blood. In my attempts to be the leader you all seek me out to be, I became…blinded. My logical thinking and sight was robbed from me by one thing and one thing only: My emotions. Starfire was critically wounded, something I could have prevented, I know I could have, but it happened, and flashbacks of what happened to Raven ran through my mind, all in a blur. I wasn't about to relive the horror of losing another teammate because of my negligence, especially Starfire. Without even taking the situation into reasonable terms, I leapt into action, much like I would have if I were still Robin, and took grasp of what laid before me by force. I couldn't live with myself if I had both Raven and Starfire's blood upon my hands, being responsible for their deaths, Raven was already enough."
Just as B.B. was about to say something, Cyborg placed his hand out, signaling for him to hold his comment, and allow Nightwing to finish his words, both a compelling explanation of what had happened, as well as what appeared to be leading somewhere that none of them expected it to go.
"In that mindset," Nightwing continued, seeing that all of his friends, even Starfire, were clearly becoming moved by this in one way or another, "I found myself at a crossroads; to either continue protecting people in need, or to call it a day…for good. At first, even I was taken back by my own thoughts, but upon further explanation and interpretation of it, it was more real than I thought. Out of sheer anger, rage, and revenge, I was fueled by these things…and I took another's life. Is it really protecting the weak and innocent when I'm no better than those committing the atrocious acts against humanity? I killed a living creature, not any living creature, but a person, a human being, and for what? Harming someone I hold dearly? Attempting to stop the past from repeating itself? The answer is yes. I have become what I loathe, I have become what I hate…I have become what I want to prevent. So, with this, I leave with you. Out of the most logical reasoning on my behalf, as well as Starfire's, we have cordially agreed that in a recent date to be announced, we will be retiring from the Titans."
A pin drop could be heard in the silence of the room, as all 3 seated Titans had agape mouths with surprise in their eyes, unable to believe what they had just heard emit from Nightwing's mouth. The silence was broken by Beast Boy attempting to chuckle, gaining even more shock of the situation.
"That's a good one, Nightwing," he managed, "real funny, I almost believed you there for a second."
"I'm serious, Garfield," Nightwing replied, using his real name to get his attention squarely once more, and truly showing he meant business, "this is not a joke. Starfire and I are retiring. We will no longer be Titans."
Cyborg managed to shake the utter shock and disbelief from his system for the moment.
"Whoa, whoa, whoa, man," he attempted, still unable to believe what he was hearing, "why do you and Star want to quit all of a sudden. Yeah, it's been tough lately, but we've rolled with the punches before, what makes this any different?"
"I told you why, Cyborg," Nightwing replied, keeping composure, "I let my emotions override my judgment, I killed out of vengeance, and I don't want to risk losing Star or one of you again, I couldn't take it. I've lost my capacity of being a reliable and good leader, so there is no need to squander on it any longer."
Cyborg merely let out a sigh of discontent as he leaned back, running his hand over his smooth head.
"Yeah, man, but did you think about us? What about the consequences of leaving? You're both adults and making a mature decision, I respect that, but I don't want you leaving us out to dry, especially when we need you. I don't know if you heard or not, but those H.I.V.E. kids are still at it, even though Blood's…well, you know."
"Who is it this time?" Nightwing requested of him, "better yet, why haven't you told me?"
"Calm down, man," Cyborg reiterated, "They went after Red Star, but they managed to fail this time. Seemed like he held his own and gave them a good whuppin', but he's no worse for wear."
"So he's fine?"
"Well, yeah."
"Then how is that a problem? Cyborg, I understand that they've killed Titans, but it isn't any of our concern unless they try to take us on again. After what happened the first time around, I doubt they will do that. Look, I have more than enough faith in you, all of you, to continued protecting the city with out Star and I, especially with Cyborg leading you."
"What, me?!" Cyborg stated, surprised, "look, I know I'm technically 2nd in charge around here, but I can't do your job, man."
"You're going to have to when we leave, Cy," Nightwing assured, "I told you, we're done, and we will be leaving soon. I will make sure everything is in order before I go though. I may no longer be a Titan, but I am still your friend."
"As am I, friend Cyborg," Starfire added.
"Yeah, sure, friends," Cyborg managed, still feeling betrayed to a degree.
"Listen, guys, this is just as hard on me as it is you," Nightwing attempted to reason with them.
"Yeah, sure it is," Beast Boy spoke up in a similar manner, "you're not the one being abandoned. Yeah, it's been tough, so what? Aren't you the one that always tells us to push on through it, keep going, what doesn't kill us only makes us stronger? What happened to the person that was like that that was our leader?"
"That person is gone," he calmly replied, seeing how emotional his friends were getting, and him losing his would only make things worse, "I'm not severing ties with you completely, I'm just not going to be a Titan any longer, you must understand that."
"Yeah, whatever," Beast Boy answered, standing up, "we've already had enough happen around here as it is, so this only adds to it. I hope you're happy, Nightwing. Just as things started to get back to normal around here, you have to ruin it."
Before he could even reply, B.B. made his way to his room, clearly upset.
"I knew this would happen," Nightwing stated, Starfire attempting to keep her emotions in as well.
"You can't blame him," Terra finally spoke up, "I may not have been around when Raven died, but he has a point. Just as things are about to seem fine again, some turbulent force comes and destroys what peace there was. This time, it just happens to be you."
"She's right, man."
"I know she's right, Cy," Nightwing nearly snapped, but keep it held back the best he could. "Look…sorry, I-"
"I understand, Nightwing," Cyborg interrupted, standing up, "but like you said, you know she's right…and I think she's right as well. I'm not disrespecting you or anything, but you picked a hell of a time to do this."
"Cy, come on, wai-"
He had already left the room before Nightwing could get his statement finished.
"Look," Terra began, "whatever's best for everyone is what should be done, whether you stay or go, it doesn't matter, just as long as it is best for all. Just give them some time to think it over, they need it."
Nightwing merely nodded in agreement with Terra, finding that she was indeed correct on the subject and managing to handle it the best thus far.
"You seem to be taking this rather well, friend Terra," Starfire commented in disbelief.
"Hey, I don't know the full story," she explained, preparing to retire for the evening, "but from what I do know and experienced, I feel like you're doing the right thing. Please, as I said, for all of our sake's, do this the right way if you must."
Nightwing and Starfire both nodded in respect towards Terra. She may indeed have been naïve to what had happened in the past before her resurrection, but she had experienced everything there after, and from what she could tell, Nightwing and Starfire were making a mature decision upon their part. She, as well as the others, only hoped it was the right one.
Over the course of the next few days, Nightwing finally managed to get through to his team, especially Cyborg, who was more than apologetic for his actions when it was initially revealed that Nightwing and Starfire would be leaving the Titans. Though, the former Boy Wonder did understand what they were feeling, as it was almost as if they were turning their backs on their friends and betraying them in the worst way possible. Cyborg didn't understand what he was getting at, but he also wanted Nightwing to remember what the repercussions of this could possibly be, and what could become of them in his and Star's absence. Slowly but surely, Cyborg managed to learn all the necessary information from Nightwing to effectively lead Terra and B.B. A top priority of his would definitely be recruitment of some kind, but there were no guarantees upon that all in its own. Not only had the Titans around the world seemed to have their hands full, and couldn't lend a hero or two, but it would be difficult to recruit on their own. Though nothing more than petty crimes compared to what they were used to combating, Jump City seemed to be experiencing more than its fare share of a surge in activity of the underworld, but Nightwing assured him that it was nothing to worry about, as it was a common thing, almost seasonal. It was quite possible that the very thing that Terra spoke of was coming true. Yet, not wishing to let Nightwing down, Cyborg assured his former leader that he was more the capable of completing the necessary tasks to lead the Titans into battle against the forces of evil that threaten everyday life of Jump City. It was indeed another violent time of change the Titans must endure, but they would prevail. They had never given up before, and they weren't about to start now.
"So," Cyborg let out a sigh, looking over a Nightwing and Starfire in civilian clothes, bags packed, "I guess this is it."
"I suppose so," Nightwing managed, still looking through his mask, "but I'm more than confident in your abilities as a leader, Cy."
"That may be, man, but I just don't know if I'm ready to do this. I know it's a little late to say that, but it's my own thoughts that are questioning me if I'm really up to the task or not."
"Friend Cyborg, do not doubt yourself," Starfire consoled, "you are a fit leader for the remaining Titans, and those of the future that you will recruit."
"Besides," Nightwing added, brandishing his communicator from his pocket, "Star and I still have these. If you ever need anything, no matter what it is, just give us a call. Advice, help, even assisting you if need be. I told you, we may be leaving, but we're not disappearing. I understand that you, as well as Terra and B.B., feel as if we are betraying you by leaving. It does seem that way, but I assure you, we will still be around if you need us. I just can't do it anymore, and I don't want Star to get hurt again, that's all."
"I understand, Nightwing," Cyborg admitted with a weak smile, "just…be good and stay out of trouble, I suppose."
"Where is friend Terra and friend Beast Boy at?" Starfire beckoned, looking around.
"His room," Cyborg motioned to B.B.'s domicile, "he's still feeling a little down over all of this and she's trying to…well, you know, and help him through it I guess."
"I see," Nightwing nodded, "well, if he ever gets back to speaking terms with us, just let him know about the communicator situation."
"Un, Nightwing?" Cyborg questioned, motioning towards his face. "The mask."
"Oh, how could I forget," he commented with a nervous laugh, looking at Starfire, who was only smiling plainly.
He placed his hands on either side of it slowly, as if he was about to cast away what life had had before, and truly did hope this was the correct decision. If not, it would cause only harm to everyone involved, including himself. Slowly, but surely, he peeled the black strip of a mask from his face. With a sharp, minute exhale, he pulled it free, keeping his eyes closed as he did so. Cyborg continued to watch on in curiosity, as in the years they had been friends and teammates, he had never seen his whole face, let alone eye color. Without another moment's hesitation, Nightwing opened his eyes, but not as Nightwing, but as Richard Grayson, the person he had hoped to leave in the past so long ago. It has resurfaced and taken over what formerly belonged to it, his life.
"Didn't know you had blue eyes, man," Cyborg joked, "you definitely look…different without the mask, Nightwing."
"I figured that much," he managed, starting to feel somewhat exposed without his mask to conceal his eyes. "You can call me Richard, Cy, Nightwing isn't here any longer."
"Richard? You don't look like a Richard," Cyborg continued, attempting to lighten the mood somewhat, getting a chuckle out of him. "So, Star, are you going to still be, well…Star?"
"Actually, friend Cyborg," she began, pushing a strand of hair behind her ear, "I have decided to use a derivative of my own name as it is spoken on Tameran. My name in your language is indeed "Starfire", but on Tameran, it is pronounced K'orindar."
"You're going to run around calling yourself that?" Cyborg questioned, baffled.
"No, you did not let me finish, friend Cyborg," Starfire reiterated, meekly smiling, "after discussing it with Nightw-, Richard, we have come to the conclusion that the name of Kori Andrews would be fit as an Earth name that is deemed "normal"."
"Technically," Richard added, "your last name will be changed to Grayson, just like mine, when we are married."
"Why?" She asked, not having a clue.
Richard merely shook his head at her naïve nature, as well as her prudent innocence.
"I'll explain later, St-, er, Kori," he managed, almost repeating the same mistake that Cyborg made with him, proving this was going to indeed be difficult at first.
An uncomfortable silence over fell the group of friends, not wishing to part ways, but necessary, as the conversation of what must be said had grown to a close. Each could tell of the other how difficult this was going to indeed be.
"Well," Cyborg sighed, "I guess it's that time."
"I guess so," Nightwing added, gathering up his belongings, as well as helping Star with hers. "I'll let you know when we find a place to stay and everything, ok?"
"Yeah, sure," Cyborg nodded, "need any help or anything?"
"Nah, I got it," Richard assured, hefting his cargo, "just stay safe, all of you, and I wish the best of luck for you."
"Likewise, man," Cy replied, feeling the emotion between them.
Richard extended his hand to accept a handshake from Cyborg, as what would be expected amongst parting adults. Instead, Cy gathered him up in a friendly hug, being sure not to crush him with his inhuman strength.
"We're gonna miss you guys," he added as he released him, taking Star up the same, "both of you. Take care. I mean it, guys. If you ever need a place to stay, you're always welcome here."
Richard nodded in an attempt to keep his composure, while Kori was on the verge of tears, her bottom lip quivering.
Without another word, parting or an attempt to stop them, the duo, the famed Nightwing and Tameranian princess known as Starfire walked the seemingly eternity of a distance to the hall that led to the elevator, each step just as difficult as the last as the two of them were in tandem, leaving everything that they had come to known. The utter pain and resistance to turn around grew in crescendo, but they fought it with faces of unchanging stone, as nothing was going to sway them now. They were leaving their lives. The door closed behind them, as it always did, but this time, he knew that they wouldn't be walking back through it again. Cyborg only wished to see them return, admitting they had made a mistake, and wished to stay themselves, but that was only dreaming. His dreams lay shattered upon the rocks of reality. The sound of the elevator traversing the shaft downwards into the garage, the R-Cycle stripped of anything to do with the Titans or Robin, the Boy Wonder, were casted aside, and a normal means of transportation for them to a life of normalcy.
"They leave?" B.B.'s voice called from behind Cyborg, getting his attention.
Beast Boy stood there, not angry, nor sad, but discontent with the situation and Terra at his side, attempting to console him. Though he didn't show it, he was more than appreciative of her at the moment.
"Yeah," Cy replied, sighing as he ran a hand over his head, "they left. Guess it's just us three now."
"For now, guys," Terra attempted to brighten the situation somewhat, "remember, next chance we get, we can go and recruit others for the team."
"Nobody can ever replace those two, Terra," Beast Boy boldly informed, "just like the ordeal with losing Raven, all over again. I thought we experienced enough heartache around here as it is, this is just twisting the knife in the heart, and both of you know that. I guess whoever's pulling the strings thinks we haven't had enough depression or something around here."
They agreed in their silence.
"Look," the changeling began, "all I know is that if Raven's body did manage to get buried somewhere by someone, she's rolling over in her grave right now. What we don't want to happen, what we tried so hard to prevent, is happening, and we're powerless to stop it."
"It started when Raven went, man," Cyborg replied, cold as ice, "I know, everyone knew that. It changed us, and that change is starting to take place. As long as there is a Titans, I'll be around, don't worry. Besides, I built this place, you think I'm leaving?"
That small hint of optimism was much appreciated, but it was far from even putting a dent in the current situation.
"Are you sure he will be more than inviting, Richard?" Kori asked of the former Nightwing.
The two of them had made the cross-country trek to Gotham, and were on the doorstep of the prominent business mogul and multi-billionaire, Bruce Wayne, or at least during the day that is. Out of impatience, Richard banged the knocker more vigorously than before, hoping someone would come to the door.
"I'm sure he will," he replied with a smile, "he'll understand the situation."
The door opened, the tall, thin frame of Alfred, Bruce's personal butler, filled Richard's view.
"Yes, can I help you sir?" He questioned in his usual tone, then opening his eyes to see who it was, "why, Master Dick, what brings you here? Master Bruce usual alerts me to when you visit."
"It's a long story, Alfred," Richard commented, "is Bruce around?"
"Yes, he's in his study, I do believe, please do come in," Alfred allowed, stepping aside, "I shall take your things to your room?"
"Not yet, Alfred," he said, placing a hand upon his as he reached for his luggage, "let me talk to Bruce first."
"Of course, Master Dick," Alfred obeyed with a nod, "no need to lead you, you know your way around of course. If you'll excuse me, I have work I need to tend to."
Richard nodded, carrying Kori in tow by the hand gently. The two of them entered through the grand doors of Bruce's study, finding him with his feet propped upon a stool, sitting in his usual chair, reading the paper. Richard knocked upon the frame of the doorway, getting him to look up over his reading glasses.
"Why, Richard, this is a surprise," he commented upon the intrusion, "what brings you here? You usually call to let me know when you are coming."
"Yeah, Bruce, could I talk to you for a sec?"
"Of course, what's on your mind?" Bruce replied, motioning for him and Kori to take a seat.
Richard and Kori obliged, taking a seat on the love seat in his study, placed across from him, a table between them.
"Well, uh-, how has things been?" Richard began, wishing to avoid what he really wanted to discuss.
"Richard, I know you didn't come all the way to Gotham to ask me how things have been. Just tell me what's going on."
"Alright," he sighed, looking at Kori, who only nodded in agreement, "I'm going to be frank with you. She knows…everything, so that will make this discussion easier."
"Okay…that seems logical," Bruce replied, semi-surprised, "so she knows about…" he motioned to himself, Richard nodding, "alright, go on."
"Well, you remember when she got hurt?" Richard began, getting a nod, "Well, in order to protect her from something like that from happening, we've…retired."
"Retired?" Bruce second questioned, surprised at his choice of action, especially coming from Richard, "well, why have you retried, Richard?"
"I," he gulped, "lost…control, and I…took another's life, Bruce."
Bruce's eyes grew in surprise.
"The same that inflicted the extensive injury to her?"
"The very same. I killed out of vengeance, and I don't want it to happen again, Bruce. I have caused more harm than good over this, and I don't want to repeat my actions under any circumstances. Not only do I have the blood of another on my hands, I must live with it every, single day of my life. I would take it back for anything, Bruce, you know me."
"I understand," Bruce replied, "you have indeed made a drastic, yet, mature, and possibly correct decision Richard. As for your…fiancée, is it? Does she agree with this?"
"Yes, we have thoroughly talked this subject over," Kori answered, getting a nod from Bruce.
"So what brings you here then?" Bruce queried, crossing his leg as continued to study the duo, finding the reasoning in their choice.
"Several reasons, Bruce," Richard replied respectfully, "I would like to know how you felt if I asked of room and board of you until I can afford a place to stay back in Jump City. I'll pay rent and what I use when here; I'll even find a job."
"There's no need for that," Bruce corrected, "you and her are more than welcome to stay here, there is plenty of room. Stay as long as you need, I understand how you want to provide everything yourself, you've always been one to refuse hand-outs, and I respect that."
"Thank you, Bruce, that means a lot to me," Richard commented, "also, I wish for you to attend our wedding, I know you said you would not long ago, but I need to be sure."
"Attend? Richard, I'll pay for it if need be, you two deserve each other," Bruce informed, "you have nothing to worry about, I assure you. I'm your guardian, anything you need, let me know."
"I really appreciate that, but I want to provide everything for her mys-"
"Richard, allow him, he is your father figure, and he wants to help. No need to add stress upon yourself," she spoke up.
"Listen to her, Richard, that's the first thing you need to learn to do," Bruce joked with a light chuckle. "Since you're so apt to providing for her, I have an office located in Jump City, if you need employment, you can start there, I'll let them know."
Richard nodded, turning to Kori with a smile.
"We're going to live a normal life from now on," he informed semi-ecstatically, excited that they can finally share their feelings without worrying about an entire city to save.
"What I've come to experience upon Earth thus far had been normal to me, Richard, I do not know what "normal" is by your standards," she explained.
"I assure you, Kori, you'll have plenty of time to adjust," Richard replied, turning back to Bruce, "Bruce, I don't know how to thank you."
"No need to, I know how grateful you are."
Richard whispered something to Kori, getting a nod as a reply, and then she stood up, leaving the room. Richard stood up as well, Bruce following suit, as he needed to attend to something anyways.
"Listen, Bruce," Richard began, "do you really think I'm doing the right thing?"
"From what I've heard, as well as your plans for your future," Bruce replied, "it seems logical, but ask yourself, is it?"
"What do you mean?"
"Well, your other teammates, for instance, what do they think of this, better yet, do you think you could do something different?"
He thought for a moment, unsure, but thought logically for a moment.
"They understand, Bruce, and unless I want to repeat my past mistakes, even lose another teammate, like I told you before about Raven, it is necessary that I retire. I will only mess things up if I tried to help."
"I see, well, in your decision, I think it is maturely made, and I stand by it as well as you do." Bruce assured, resting his hand upon Richard's shoulder.
"Thanks, Bruce," Richard replied, more than confident with Bruce's protective aura about him.
Though difficult, yet necessary, Richard Grayson and Kori Andrews had finally ascended beyond the calling of the Titans, and were to attempt the grueling task of adapting to everyday life. Though it seems to be rather…simple to achieve, for those that have known nothing but constant conflict against the forces of evil, it will be more than a challenge, as their very future depends on it.
Arthur Light sat at his desk, scribbling away at his notes as he examined what appeared to be a fragment of a dinosaur bone. In his line of work, for the moment, was about the most exciting thing he was able to do for the better part of the day. Though important, it would seem tedious to the general public. A hearty knock came forth upon his door.
"I'm busy, please come back at another time," Light beckoned, not even looking up, yet, Raven's image still fresh in his mind from her visit only mere weeks ago, less than a month at that.
Without another word, the door swung open, but stopped short of slamming into the wall, much like Raven had done when she barged in. A tall, built figure of a man made himself an appearance into Light's office, wearing what appeared to be a long, dark trenchcoat, as well as a large hat that seemed to cover his face.
"I said I was busy, please go away now," he asked once more, attempting to keep his calm, but was becoming agitated with this intrusion. He had work to do, sort of speak.
The figure merely closed the door behind himself, locking it, even drawing the blind to it.
"This is you final warning, sir," Light warned, "I will call security if you don't leave this instant."
The figure merely approached Light, standing at least a head length taller than the professor of archeology, or when he wasn't Dr. Light.
"That's it, mister," he added, reaching for the intercom button, only to see the dark blur of a hand reach out and stop his, the other hand of the figure took hold of his throat, lifting Light off of the floor with ease.
"W-what do you…want?" Light managed, nearly strangled.
The form merely tossed him back into his chair, allowing him to roll about a foot in it.
"I only wish to have a "civilized" conversation with you, Dr. Light," an eerily familiar, as well as calm voice replied. "Oh, excuse me, where are my manners?" He maliciously added, removing his hat slowly.
Light's eyes grew with fright, as well as sheer terror upon what he saw seated before him.
The half-bronze metallic mask gleamed in the sunlight filtering through the window; a single, piercing eye looked at him, literally seeing directly into his very soul, as chills ran up and down Light's spine. A red, archaic "S" symbol seemed to be on the mask itself, but Arthur could not make it out very well.
"Well, well, well, Professor Light," Slade beckoned sinisterly, "you've made quite a name for yourself in the field of archeology, isn't it?"
"Y-yes, I've m-managed," Light stuttered, beginning to sweat from sheer nervousness, "I t-t-thought you were d-d-"
"Dead? Don't be absurd," Slade replied, acting as if he was a long-lost friend, but in reality, was far from it, "life has mysterious ways of working, Light, I just happened to catch a…lucky break, if you will. I have questions for you, and I presume you will give me answers, will you not?"
"O-of course," he obliged, not wanting to incite Slade's wrath, "I will t-try to a-answer the best I c-can."
"I know you will," Slade hissed out of amusement, but reverted to as serious as one could be, "Raven. Where is she?"
"Raven?" Light stated, nearly baffled, "why do you need to kno-"
"I asked you a question, Light, now give me an answer, not another question, or so help me I will splatter your internals upon these very walls and bathe in your blood. I'm in no mood for games," Slade interrupted, showing he truly did mean business.
"Ok, ok," Light begged, petrified at Slade's sheer intimidation, "she came through her not too long ago, 2, 3 weeks tops, asking me for help, which I found to be ver-"
"Help for what?" Slade badgered.
"To get her transportation or something to Asia, Southern China to be exact. I told her I had a friend in Hungary that would charter a flight there. The plan was set to land in Hong Kong. That's all I know, I swear. After that, I have no idea as to where she went."
"I see," Slade stated slyly, stroking his chin as he contemplated the situation, "well, you have indeed been most helpful Dr. Light, and just for that…I've decided that I will allow you to live. We'll cross paths again one day, maybe soon, but until then, I bid you adieu." He added, acting as if he was friendly once more.
"Yeah, s-sure," Light managed, ready to faint.
"Pathetic worm," Slade thought as he left his office, placing the wide-brimmed hat back upon his head to conceal his identity to the public. "So, Raven has plans of attending the oriental East, does she? For what reasons, I do not know, but no matter, she will die all the same by my hand. No amount of help or training will save her from this gale force about to come her way. She could barely stand a threat when she had her powers and I was human. Now, nothing more than a beating heart and I nearly a demon in Trigon's army, will prove to make this quite quick. Yet, her death will be slow and extremely painful. How gruesome…that depends on what mood I'm in at the time, and if she is obliging to the thought. I hope she attempts to retaliate, I really do, I enjoy it when my prey is backed against a wall and attempts to fight back, but it is all in futility. Raven has no chance of prevailing, and I will be her executioner.
"Tick tock, Raven," Slade said to himself as he exited the museum, apparently in distant pursuit, "time's running out. Place your head upon the chopping block, and allow the blade to go snicker-snap…though it be a dull edge. You will suffer for what you have done to me, child, I will see to it. As for your father…I will deal with him afterwards. I am nobody's puppet, especially his. After I am done with you and out of his control, then I may be able to do something, but until then, I shall serve Trigon to the ends of the Earth. I may end up traversing just that to track you down, Raven, and so help me, you will pay for every, single last inch of it when I finally catch up with you. Not even your mother can save you now."