"Hey, guys, I think she's waking up," a voice spoke, female at that, and sounded all to familiar.
Several others huddled around the fallen figure, all looking as much alike as the last, only wearing different colors of varying nature. The surroundings were bleak and uninteresting, familiar in a way that was rather to be forgotten…or at least visited less frequent. The female figure began to stir, groaning as she gingerly opened her eyes, allowing her eyes to adjust. She snapped them open upon the realization of what stood over her, taking in the sight.
Needless to say, she was startled, taking somewhat of a gasp in surprise.
"Raven, long time, no see, eh?" A green-clad version of herself greeted, smirking in her usual demeanor. She offered a hand to lift Raven from the ground.
"Hi, uh, w-wh-what's going on?" Raven managed, holding her head, looking at the representations of her emotions around her.
"Isn't it obvious?" The yellow-cloaked apparition of Intelligence beckoned, pushing her wide-brimmed, circular glasses upon her nose.
"Umm…no?" Raven replied, feeling as if she was being rather brash with her. "Last thing I remember was laying on the ground, bleeding, and I-"
"Passed out, and died," the gray form of Timid informed in her usual droll outlook upon everything. "Once wasn't enough for you, was it?"
Timid turned away, a tear rolling down her cheek as she did so.
"Hey, easy," Raven protested, feeling somewhat of a guilt from her emotion. "this wasn't my doing, so enough with the waterworks, okay?"
"This is actually the third attempt, second success, counting your little incident in the jungle," the orange counterpart that represented her obnoxiousness blurted out.
"Don't be such a party-pooper," Happy quelled, slapping her on the shoulder out of her usual giddiness.
"What about these feelings you have for the one called David? Do you not love Garfield anymore?" Love, clad if violet, queried, all of their voices seeming to gather together as one, getting on Raven's nerves.
"Enough!" She exclaimed, bringing the group to a complete hush, getting their undivided attention. "First off, back up, I need room to breath." Her emotions gladly obeyed her command, "Secondly, will one of you, and I do mean ONE of you, tell me what is going on? Last thing I remember was I died, so why am I here?"
"As I was saying," an annoyed Intelligence answered, "it's obvious. You did indeed expire, but you were not completely through the process."
"Then what happened?" Raven anxiously divulged, wishing to know exactly what was going on, not wasting time with pleasantries.
"Please stop interrupting me," Intelligence informed, "you will hear as soon as I tell you." Raven merely mouthed a silent "sorry", allowing her to continue. "As I was saying for the third time, you have managed to cheat death a second time. In any case, after taking into consideration your extensive injuries its a miracle you survived. You had help."
Just as Raven opened her mouth to question who, her yellow-dressed counterpart beat her to it.
"David aided you. He is the one that saved your life. While your body was still fresh, retaining heat and whatnot, he attempted cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, better known to you as CPR."
"Last interruption, I promise," Raven began once more, seeing she was making her emotion of wisdom less than happy, "why are you talking to me like I'm stupid, I mean, you are a part of me after all."
"My wisdom and intelligence is watered down by the others, sorry for "talking down" to you, but sometimes I feel it is necessary." Intelligence informed, pushing her glasses upon her nose once more.
"Whatever," Raven half-heartily replied, shrugging, not really caring, "do continue though."
After attempting CPR, which failed by the way, he truly thought that he had lost you for good. Well, since both of you are of demonic blood, at least half, which is more than plenty by the way, made this little trick actually work. His essence, his very life force managed to infiltrate itself into you, and literally"kickstart" you back to life. You will always have a part of him with you now because of that."
"How did this "life force" come in contact with me?" Raven asked, not too clear on the subject.
"A drop of his blood managed to fall into one of your open wounds and made its way into your body."
"Interesting to say the least," Raven commented, "that takes care of that. Now, what about me being here, with all of you?"
"That's an easy one," Bravery boasted, "you're out like a light."
"I think she means you're unconscious," Timid offered, only to get a gesture from Bravery of an immature level.
Raven looked over at her dreary representation with a blank expression.
"I kinda understood that much," she replied, not amused. "How long?"
"A week," Obnoxious blurted out, picking at her ear, "give or take a few days. You took a couple nasty shots on the noggin, so it's not all that surprising." No sooner than she finished, a loud belch emitted from her mouth.
"I can't believe that these are what make me up," Raven thought, turning, looking at each and every one of them.
"I asked you a question," Love stated once more, crossing her arms, raising an eyebrow at Raven before her.
"What? I was a little busy trying to find out what was going on and what had happened to me, so do ask again." Raven replied, checking the tone of her voice to not sound annoyed.
After a sigh of resentment, Love began to pace before Raven.
"You are making my job rather difficult, you know that? Out of everyone here, I feel I am the most mistreated, neglected, taken advantage of, and used emotion. What I am speaking of are these…thoughts that you have been having lately. As you grow deeper and more passionate with David, your retained feelings for Garfield continue to pop up and cloud your mind with more thinking. I assure you, both of them are indeed great people to know and love like you do, but you are torn between the two of them, and you must choose. If not, it will only lead to one of them being hurt a lot worst than they should be."
"I know, I know," Raven admitted, not proud of it, "I just don't know what to do. You and I both know that love isn't my strong suit, and I have managed to find it once more in David, but Garfield was always there for me well before I developed feelings of this nature for him. It's all so confusing to me right now. David has indeed been there for me, did everything I have ever asked or needed of him, even without question most of the time, and even nearly gave his life to protect me. Yet, I have known Garfield for many years, been close friends, shared all those moments, especially my first kiss, and knowing him, he's always had this…feeling that I was still alive, and never gives up hope. It's just becoming difficult to place my decision. I don't want to hurt either of them, but one will be more understanding than the other, I know that much.
"Garfield does have certain…qualities that make him less than a wise choice, but it is what he makes up with it is what has you struggling, is it not? On the other hand, to me, from what I have experienced on your behalf, David appears to be a perfect match, yet, despite living around him for the past few years, he is still a mystery, and even with his outgoing nature, he keeps much of his past locked away, almost as if he is hiding something. Garfield would spill the beans in a heartbeat; you know he can't keep secrets. The decision must be made though, the sooner, the less painful it will be. In any case, the one you choose will be your choice through love, not logic, so whatever you do, do not listen to Intelligence, she's a dork."
Raven just laughed at the notion, knowing that Love wasn't too far from the truth. With her emotions apart like this, it was easy to see that they were indeed…strong in their aspect, but together, they made up what was to be known as her.
"How will I know will be the correct choice? I know one of them will be slightly hurt by this choice, but what if I don't make the right one and severely hurt one of them?"
"That….is entirely up to you. I know about as much as you know, so give it some time, think it over, and listen to, well, me." Love assured, resting a hand on Raven's shoulder, smiling a little."
Raven nodded, knowing that it was indeed up to her, and she must take control and make such a choice, no matter the consequences.
"So, are we done here?" Raven looked around at her colored counterparts, seeing that they really didn't have much else to say. "Not that I don't like getting to know…myself, I would like to go back to the real world rather soon."
Bravery stepped forward with a grin on her face, a grin of demented nature.
"I do apologize for this, Rae, but it is necessary to…" ,she informed, cracking her knuckles, "send you on your way, call it "shock" if you want to."
"Raven had no time to react, but Bravery had drawn back and belted her right in the face with tremendous force, literally hitting her so hard that it sent her back into reality, causing the white nothingness she was once in to quickly fade to black. It was good to know that she was alive, now it was time to see where her "valiant" struggle against an empowered and invincible opponent had gotten her. Raven already knew it wasn't going to be pretty. She gingerly opened her eyes, taking in a blurred world around her, but she knew it to be welcomed surroundings. The bamboo-slat walls that always filtered sunlight in, the very raised mat she was upon, even the sprawl of her belongings on the floor…it was all familiar. It was her place that she had called home for the past few years. Despite the sudden relief, she was in a good deal of pain, mostly sore from the severity of her wounds. Raven attempted to raise up and look around, but she struggled to do that, eventually giving up as she laid there, turning her head, finding yet another welcomed vision. It was David, seated upon the floor, resting his head upon his knees, asleep, apparently watching over and protecting his love while she healed.
"D-David?" Raven managed weakly, hearing just how far off and quite her voice was.
Yet, it was more than enough to get an immediate reaction from his resting position as his head lifted, wide-eyed, relieved that she was awake.
"Thank goodness you're okay," he eagerly replied, taking in her visage, "I was worried sick, you've been out for going on 9 days, and I didn't know if you were ever going to wake up. I'm ecstatic you are now. Is…is everything okay?"
"A little sore," Raven informed with a wince as she attempted to reposition her body to speak easier to him. "No worse for wear now that I've rested. W-what happened to him though?"
"I-I don't know,' Gecko admitted, almost as if he was ashamed to do so, "he just…disappeared, before my very eyes, I don't know if he's gone or not. What I do know is that if he dares to show is face again…I'll be ready."
Raven just smiled at his enthusiasm. Both she and him knew that if Slade were to return in any way, shape, or form, he would kill them in a heartbeat. They didn't stand a chance to begin with, and they surely wouldn't be considered a threat in their injured state.
"I thought I lost you, Rae," Gecko interrupted her thoughts, his voice breaking, "you…you had no pulse, you weren't breathing…and-"
"Shhh, it's okay now, David," Raven assured, despite her weak voice, "I'm here, we both are, and everything is going to be alright, I promise you."
He just leaned down, embracing her, gently sobbing at just the thought of what almost happened. Raven accepted the best she possibly could, patting him on the back gently with her good hand, the other bandaged all the way up to her elbow, apparently healing from Slade's fiery attack that connected with her own. She really wishes she could say that was the only injury she had sustained in the malicious confrontation. Raven's sides burned with intense pain, enough to make her want just throbbing discomfort over it. Atop the deep gash above her good eye was wound dressing and a wrap that went around her head, almost like a white halo of a fallen angel.
The week long period of incubation of sorts allowed her other wounds to heal, yet the taste of blood still managed to linger in her mouth despite all that time. Her injuries this time around may have been more internal than the last encounter with Slade
in his human form, but hey were far more serious and life-threatening. If she had a choice between the two, Raven would have taken the first of the two, even though she would have to experience the loss of her eye and the sickening feeling of a sword being ran through her shoulder once more.
"I'll never leave your side again," Gecko promised, releasing her from his embracing hug, bringing a hand beneath her chin. "I swore to protect you at all costs, I'm not about to stop now."
"Raven smiled warmly, another rare smile, even for her. She took hold of his hand in hers, grasping it.
"I know, David, I am very grateful. If it wasn't for you, I wouldn't be here. You saved my life…twice, I owe you so much."
"You owe me nothing, Raven, your debt is paid in the life that we share together," He informed with a smile, looking deeply into her eyes.
"That is very good to know, because I don't possibly know of what I could do to repay my debt," Raven toyed, getting a chuckle out of him. "Could I ask you something though, David?"
"Yes, Raven?"
"When I was laying there, on the brink of passing out, I saw…something. I don't quite know what it was though."
"Well…could you describe it for me and I might be able to shed some light on the subject," He requested of her, thinking, but knew the answer all too well.
"Green…green and lizardy," Raven motioned, as if she had claws and aggressive demeanor. "Red eyes, you know the works."
"That was me," Gecko claimed, pointing to himself.
A perplexed look came across Raven's face, just as it would any other person's under the circumstances.
"Come again?"
"I said that "thing" you saw was me, Rae. I'm half demon, just like you, remember? Since my demon is of reptilian nature, when it takes over, I kinda transform into that. It gives me strength and speed not possible in my normal form. Yet, I never fully transformed like that, it came as a surprise even to me."
"You did have a tail after all," Raven jested with a slight grin.
"Yeah, I know, cool, wasn't it?" He beamed, getting a huff of laughter in return from Raven. "If it wasn't for those powers, Slade wouldn't have stood a chance; you and I both know that."
"I know, I really do wish he was, it would have made things a lot easier," Raven admitted, "well, what's done is done. He's gone for all we know, and both of us are here and recuperating. All it will take is a little time and things will be back to normal."
Gecko gently lifted her hand, placing a kiss upon it.
"I can't wait for it," Gecko smiled, patting her hand, "you get some rest, you need it. I'll go try to find something to eat for both of us, okay?"
Raven nodded, knowing that it was indeed best that she remain in bed for the time being. Even for as tough as she thought herself to be, it was against all logic to do otherwise. Yet, one thing still troubled her, and it wasn't physical. Her emotion known as Love, a thorn in her side for quite some time to a degree, had prodded her, knowing everything Raven was thinking, and managed to hit a twinge that recoursed through her entire body.
"Who do I choose?" Raven questioned herself quietly. "It's so…nerve-racking. David has been there when I needed him the most…literally, done everything in his power to make accommodations for me, no matter how small. He is all around, I regret admitting this, the perfect guy. Yet, part of me is still thinking of Garfield, and what we could possibly share together because of the bond we share. Yes, David and I share something similar, but with Garfield, it took time to build, and made it that much more precious. I had to actually try and sometimes unknowingly force him to achieve what I wished. David and I just fell into place all too perfectly. Nothing's wrong with that, but it just seems so…different to me. That part that thinks of Garfield takes into consideration of Terra as well. I'm sure they are together, I know how he is, but I do not blame him one bit. If the tables had been turned, I would have done the same thing, with another guy mind you, but I would never be slightly happy again if I just mourned over a loss and remained lonely for the remainder of my life. He even convinced the Titans to come to my aid when I needed them the most, even after the atrocities I committed in Slade's name out of pure choice. Rage had consumed me and taken over, and I sadly enjoyed the feeling so much that I embraced it instead of fighting it. Garfield brought me back to reality and even risked everything to save me, despite the results of his efforts; he still did something I wouldn't expect of him. I just don't know what to do. I told myself that I would wait for Garfield, no matter how long it took and no matter what happened, I would return and I would reunite with him. Time has slowly diluted this notion, but I also feel as if I'm betraying myself as well as him for breaking my promise. Yet, I cannot just shun David for all that he has done for me and what we have shared thus far. At this very moment, I do not know what to do, but the answer will come; I am sure of it, only time will tell. As for you, Love, I hope your listening, because now is your chance to make my decision for me. I have stated the facts, and now it is time to go over them. You will give me the answer, I am sure of it. I patiently wait."
Raven rolled over in her bed, attempting to remain comfortable, but it was all in vain, as it wasn't that she was physically discomforted, but the thoughts that racked her psyche over who it was she would choose.
"Anyway I look at it," Raven regretfully admitted, "one of them will be hurt, and I don't blame them. I just need to make sure that it is the one who can take it the best and still remain my friend."
Gecko walked through the cloth flap of the door, holding what appeared to be a basket of various foods he managed to obtain from Master Hui.
"Lunch is here," he greeted, seeing Raven's face full of distraught once more, similar to before. "Hey, what's the matter?"
"Oh, nothing," Raven quickly replied with a weak smile, straining to sit up, and accomplishing the feat in her condition. "Just thinking."
"Are you sure you don't want to talk about it?"
"I'm positive, David, really, it's nothing," she lied, quite possibly the first time she had directly done to him since they had met. "I'm sure a full stomach will take care of everything."
"Alright," Gecko chuckled, digging in the basket, "let's eat then."
"Yeah,' Raven half-heartily replied, "let's."
Within nearly two weeks, Raven had managed to make a full recovery, as did Gecko. To their relief, especially Raven's, Slade had not made a single appearance once more, let alone a disturbance in the jungle by anything. It was almost as if he had really vanished into midair, to be forgotten forever. She only hoped that was true, and for now, believed it. Slade cheated death twice, the third time…well, three strikes and your out is what Raven prayed day in day out for in this case. Training picked up as usual once more, well, more vigorous at that, Gecko becoming ambitious, knowing that he must be stronger if he hoped to protect Raven after seeing the performance he had made against Slade, inter-dimensional powers or not, he had failed, and wasn't about to fail twice. Determined to prove so, knowing that next time, if there ever was to be a next time, failing Raven again would result in something much worse. In any case, as the summer began drawing to a close once more, just as it had done twice over before in Raven's stay at Master Hui's mountaintop. On this particular day, Gecko had something…special planned, and only hoped that Raven was obliging. Since it was her final trials with Master Hui tomorrow to prove that she had indeed learned and mastered everything the two of them had to offer in her stay, this was something of a celebration, since he knew she was going to pass with flying colors, even Master Hui in agreement in her own little way.
"David, can I open my eyes yet?" Raven requested, having them covered by her hand, as well as closed to not "peek". Gecko guided her by her arms from behind her.
"No, not yet," he smiled, "we're almost there, trust me, it will be well worth the suspense."
"If you insist," Raven smirked in a jokingly manner, "so far, all that I've seen is the back of my eyelids, and to let you know, they aren't all that interesting."
No sooner than she finished her somewhat taunting response, Gecko stopped her.
"Alright, we're here, but keep your eyes closed," Gecko pointed out as Raven almost opened them, "this is the first part of your surprise."
For once, Raven was actually anxious for a gift, ready to drop her hands and see what Gecko had for her. Time seemed to drag on for ages as the seconds went by, feeling like minutes.
"Okay, you can open them."
Raven did so, dropping her hands to her sides. Upon the sight of her "surprise" he mouth went agape, eyes wide as she took in the sight.
"Well, what do you think?" Gecko requested of her, holding up her surprise.
It was a black kimono made of silk, complete with gold trim, as well as intricate designs that were hand-sewn into the fabric stitch for stitch. What grabbed her attention the most was the large bow, made of a similar material, but dark blue, and lined with the same golden trim as with the kimono itself. She knew right away that by the colors and the design, it was made specifically for her.
"David…it's…beautiful," she managed in her astonishment as she remained fixed on the spectacle before her. "W-who made this? It's absolutely…wonderful," Raven added, at risk of sounding emotional like Starfire.
"I did," he beamed, pointing to himself, "not just girls can sew, cook, and clean, you know? I learned many things living on my own, and Master Hui showed me how to do this. I didn't know if you would like it or not."
Raven wrapped her arms around David, holding him close.
"I love it," she assured, embracing him in a kiss, "can I try it on?"
"Sure, here you go," Gecko replied, handing it to her, "I'll go wait outside."
"Don't be so shy, David, I'm not offended," Raven assured, "I know you're not a pervert."
"Please, I'll just wait outside, Rae," He restate in his nervous state of mind, getting somewhat of a cross look from her, "alright, alright, a compromise, I'll at least look away, okay?"
Raven nodded in agreement at his innocent nature.
"As long as we've been together and he's still nervous like that…" she thought to herself as she disrobed, "something's up with him today, but I don't quite know what it is. Could have something to do with this little "surprise" that he had for me by the way things appear, but I'll get to the bottom of it one way or another."
Unknown to Raven, the mirror that was in the process of being moved only days before was resting against the wall, and Gecko had a perfect angle of looking at her through it.
"Oh my," Gecko quietly commented to himself, embarrassed to say the least. Yet, a part of him more than enjoyed the view.
"What was that, David?" Raven asked of him, unsure to what he had said.
"Oh, uh, nothing, just…talking to myself, that's all," he halfway admitted with a nervous laugh, adjusting his body to look away from the mirror as well.
"I'm ready," Raven informed, getting him to turn around and take in her clothed figure.
In addition to the kimono, Raven had also put on her wooden sandals that she had made herself with Gecko's aid not too long ago, and even put her hair up in a traditional oriental bun, complete with two, crossed sticks holding it in place. Only two thin slivers of hair fell down in front of each ear, the rest pulled back into the bun, making her widow's peak that much more prominent than usual, displaying her true beauty. To Gecko, it was almost as if she was shinning.
"Well," Raven questioned, seeing him basically silent in sheer amazement, "how do I look?"
"A-absolutely stunning, and that's putting it lightly," Gecko managed, "I've always thought of you as a goddess sent to me, Rae, now you actually look like one."
"Oh, stop, David," Raven blushed, despite hearing such comments from him all the time, it still made her feel positive about her self every time. "I love this kimono, and it's only that much better because you made it yourself."
"I put everything I had into it, Rae, just like I would anything else, and I'm very happy you're pleased with how it came out. You ready to see part two of your surprise?"
"Sure, where is it?"
"Come on," He took hold of her hand, "I'll show you."
"Another hike, let me guess, close my eyes?" Raven commented.
"You know it," Gecko laughed, leading her out the door.
"What could he possibly have that is as good if not better than this?" Raven thought in her current trek behind closed eyes to "part two" of her surprise. "The kimono is absolutely gorgeous on its own, so this must be something very special."
"Alright," Gecko informed, stopping her as he moved away, "open your eyes."
She did so, finding that they were upon the slight elevation in front of the zen garden that Master Hui kept as part of her meditation rituals she sought to from time to time. Yet, it wasn't the usual perfectly ordered sand and stone as she always saw it to be. The rocks had been removed, and the sand was literally sculpted into the visage of Raven. Shadows were represented as depressions in the sand, while highlights were raised, each and every articulated curve matched perfectly with that on Raven's very own face. He even made it as if Raven's eye had not been injured, leaving a perfectly flawless beauty etched in the sand.
"Well, what do ya think?" Gecko impatiently anticipated, knowing that she was stunned in sheer amazement at the feat before her. "I worked on it all night."
"It's…it's…" Raven managed, her voice breaking at how delighted she was, the immense love that he had for her, going to such lengths just to see her happy. She even wiped away a tear as she smiled, "its…beautiful, David, I really don't know what to say. I can't believe you went to these lengths for me."
Gecko joined her at her side, looking down upon it as well.
"For you? Anything,' he assured, "I\rquote d go to the ends of the earth for the smallest task if it made you happy."
"I know you would," Raven replied, \"but that sounded really corny."
"I know it did," he added through his smile, but not caring, "you still liked it though."
"Call me old-fashioned," Raven smiled, leaning in for a kiss.
"Gecko-san? Where are you?" A familiar voice called out, appearing, cane and all from the path above, causing the two of them to break their embrace off sooner than planned. "I need your help with somethi- Ah, there you are, Raven-chan as well, all is well, I presume?"
"Yes, master," both of them replied in unison, bowing their heads.
Master Hui looked past them at her garden, seeing the work that Gecko had painstakingly done in the middle of the night beneath lantern more than likely.
"Ahhhchaaa, what happened to my garden?!" Master Hui exclaimed, quickly darting her eyes back to Gecko, who was more than nervous, "Gecko-san, why does my garden look like Raven-chan?!"
"Uhhh…magic maybe, Sensei?"
His response earned him a quick snap on the head with her walking staff, bringing him to his knees in pain, holding his head.
"Ah, not so hard, sensei." Gecko groaned, only to get another in the same place, laying him completely out.
"Not only did you lie, Gecko-san, but you did not ask to do this to my garden."
Master Hui quickly turned to Raven, giving her a smack on the head as well, nowhere near as hard as she did Gecko, but enough to cause pain.
"Ah, what was that for, Sensei?!" Raven requested, rubbing her head.
"That\rquote s for encouraging him with your beauty," She replied, "you're very pretty, Raven-chan, and it causes him to not think clearly in many aspects."
"Umm…thanks?" Raven replied, "I'll fix it if you wish, Sensei."
"No need, Gecko-san will do it today before the sun sets."
"Love knows no bounds, Sensei," Gecko informed from the ground.
"Neither does your hard head." Master Hui quickly replied, looking back at Raven, "I am looking forward to tomorrow, Raven-chan. You will truly graduate from mastering all the teachings that Gecko-san and I have to offer, as with a demonstration of these will you prove that. I look to not be disappointed; you have learned much in your stay, I am very proud of you."
"Thank you, Sensei, I am most humbled," Raven honorably stated, "I assure you that your teachings that you have graciously bestowed upon me will be used for good and nothing more."
"Master Hui nodded, looking back at the sculpted sand.
"Despite what Gecko-san has done to my garden, it has an likeness of you unsurpassed by no other, almost in a heavenly nature."
"A goddess?" Raven questioned with a slightly arched brow.
"Yes, like a goddess," Master Hui smiled.
"I told you," Gecko interjected, finally picking himself off of the ground, only to have Master Hui's walking cane be placed under his chin.
"I mean it, Gecko-san, restore this to garden to the former appearance or you will hand scrub every single tile on these grounds."
"Yes, Sensei," Gecko quickly assured, taking a bow to show that he meant what he was to do.
Master Hui began walking back up the path towards her pagoda, yet, something was on her mind.
"Like two spirits of lost nature, having nothing to really call their own, these two were drawn together by the similarities they shared, as well as experiences. Fate has brought them together, and only their will to continue will decipher the future before them. Though things seem calm, I fear a turbulent force me beckon between them, the cause yet to be determined. If they can brave its waters of doubt, then nothing can divide the bond they share."
It was hours later, well into the evening of another long summer afternoon, Gecko finally joining Raven in the hot springs that seemed help cure any ailment that came their way, physically and mentally.
"You all tuckered out after fixing the garden?" Raven asked of him as she rested her head against his shoulder.
"Fixing sand and rocks is a lot harder than it looks," he admitted, making eye contact with her, "but nothing I can't handle."
"That's good," Raven commented, looking up into the beginnings of the night sky, seeing all of the stars of the galaxy dotting it, making themselves present in the blackness of the hours of darkness. "I can't believe that we are actually graduating tomorrow, well, kinda anyways. Nothing left for us to really learn from Master Hui, and I've pretty much learned everything from you."
"In about half the time it has taken me to master everything as well," Gecko commented, acting jealous, getting a laugh out of her, "but seriously though, this place is beautiful, I'm gonna miss it, I've called in home for the past 8 years, its hard to just leave."
"I know what you mean, after my trek around the world, this is absolutely most breathtaking and enjoyable region I've visited. This is so much more than the usual urban sprawl that I call home. Still, I can't believe it's been three years since I showed up, tried to take on Master Hui, trained with the animals for months, well, everything. A whole new lifestyle and life to say the least, it's going to be rather hard to re-adjust to civilization after experiencing something such as this."
"If it wasn't for you, I couldn't stand this place. Besides, it won't be too hard, Rae, besides, it should all come back to you like that," Gecko assured with the snap of his fingers, wrapping his arm around her as they studied the sky together. "We can begin that journey to see your friends again, together. Nothing will stand in our way, you will see your friends once more, and I will have a chance to become a Titan. How cool will it be to be a superhero?"
Raven huffed at his innocence.
"Trust me, it's not all that great, but it's a job somebody's got to do, and I just happen to be one of them." Raven informed, sighing, "I do it knowing that I'm keeping the peace and saving lives, hopefully putting in my two cents worth in protecting the world, that kind of thing. Even after everything that has happened, I'm more than willing to keep doing it just for that."
"A noble cause to say the least," Gecko complimented, "one I hope to join as well."
"You will, I'm more than positive, the Titans always need new recruits," Raven added, unknowing that her statement was all too true.
Gecko let out a sigh as he turned to Raven, as if he was preparing to say something.
"It's now or never, let her know how serious you are about being with her," Gecko's little voice spoke to him inside of his head.
"Rae?" He began, feeling nervous all over again, like it was the first time that he had ever spoken to her.
"Yes, David?"
"You know I love you, that's undeniable, but I want you to know that I want to be with you forever, to the end of time, for eternity, whatever…I want to spend it with you. You're the only person I've ever been with and the only one I've thought of being with after the fact. There is no one else like you out there, and I feel as if you were the one made more me. Raven…you complete me."
That was it. Gecko's words played the chords of Raven's heart, and she was more than welcoming to it. Despite being on the verge of tears of happiness at his compliments, it was only mere moments later before she had wrapped her arms around his neck, pressing her body against his, sharing a deep kiss with him. Their embrace seemed to last, and just as it was to be over, they merely paused for breath and continued. His hands traveled from the lowest base of her spine slowly to the her shoulders in a sensual manner, while she rested a hand upon his hip, the other draped over his shoulder and around his neck. Raven felt his finger begin to make their way to the clasp on the back of her bathing top.
"Is he doing what I think he's doing?" She thought, but the feeling was oh so good to her, "you naughty, little boy."
Sure enough, the clasp was unhinged, and the thin straps over her shoulders loosened, allowing the entire top to fall to the surface of the water, floating. The cool, night air danced across her exposed chest, only increasing the sensation that was inhibiting Raven's mind.
"If this is to happen," she thought, looking deeply into his eyes, "then I'm more than willing with him. What we share shall not be denied.'
Even in her calm thought, Raven could feel his hands exploring, moving from one side to the other in a caring manner, enough to cause a gentle moan of pleasure to emit from her person. His touch caused her body to shudder with delight. It was only human instinct as to what she wanted. While his hands continued to roam in a pleasing manner, Raven continued to kiss him deeply as ever before, reaching below the water to have her turn at disrobing, yet, just as her hands plunged beneath the placid surface, a severe twinge of pain erupted through her body, the feeling that once give her so much pleasure had shifted to the other extreme, and was becoming extremely uncomfortable. The source of it was her…heart. Raven immediately knew what it was, but tried to fight it, feeling as if it was wrong. She denied that Love was telling her this was not to be, but the more she fought, the more intense the pain became, enough to the point to cause Raven to reel away, almost startled. It quickly enough to surprise David to say the least as he sat there, perplexed by Raven's behavior in their intimate sharing.
"Wh-what's wrong?" He questioned, concerned for her safety.
Raven panted for air against what felt like a death grip upon her heart. Love told her know, and Raven was going to listen, one way or another.
"I-it's nothing," she managed after a short silence, quickly snatching her top from the water, preparing to exit the pool out of a mixture of fear and anger.
"Wait, was it something I did?" Gecko asked of her, feeling as if he had made the biggest mistake he possibly could.
"No, it wasn't you," Raven assured as she exited the pool, "it's me."
Before Gecko could mouth a reply, she was already out of the pool and headed towards her living quarters, leaving him all by himself in the stillness of the night.
"You idiot!" He told himself, "I knew it was too soon, I knew it! I tried to rush things with her, and look what happened. I probably ruined everything. She hates me now, she has to, she wouldn't have left like that if it wasn't true. I wasn't even thinking, damn my hormones. They get people into so much trouble, and it just happened to me regretfully. I hope she forgives me."
"Why?" Raven pleaded in tears, finding herself surrounded by the abstract construction of her sub-conscious, calling out to one particular emotion. "Come forth and tell me why!"
An apparition solidified before her, cloaked in purple.
"Do you really need to know the answer, Raven?" Love beckoned, remaining true.
"I am happy with him, and you're refusing me my feelings?!" Raven exclaimed, upset at the notion, "you want to drive him away, is that it?!"
"I'm sorry, Raven, but your heart does not lie with him. What I consider true love is with another. Yes, David is one of a kind and a very nice person, they are indeed rare, but the one you are to share your feelings with is Garfield."
"He doesn't love me, he thinks I'm dead, and he's with Terra now, he has to be," Raven informed, tears running down her face. "I'm only a memory to him now."
"You're very wrong," Love scolded, stepping forward, 'you and I both know that no matter what, he will always love you, always has, always will. In your passing, he may have covered the hole in his heart with companionship with Terra, but it only lasts for a moment, and the pain will return. It literally kills him knowing that you will never be together with him again. You said it was up to me to make the decision, Raven, and I have delivered my verdict. Take it as you will, but you cannot stand up the pain I can cause if you defy me. I am doing this as you requested and what is best for you."
"Why now, why not so long ago?" Raven wished to know, feeling betrayed. "After everything he's done, all that he has put forth, and all that we have shared, you want me to just shun him away because there's someone else that I haven't seen for 5 years?"
"David's deeds were necessary to return you to a normal mindset. You were on the verge of death from your self-inflicted wounds of suicide; he came to your aid. He wished for you to live and did everything in his power to accommodate you to the fullest because you needed it. He gave you your life, now it is time to give back his."
"W-what do you mean? I want to spend it with him and he does with I," Raven stated, trying to form some sort of logical argument with her emotion known as Love.
"His life consists of tending to your every whim, giving you everything you will ever need, and more. He does it out of love for you, that may be true, but when his love has come to so much for so very little, is it really fair to him? I'm not saying that you don't return his feelings, but I'm stating that he does so much, it pales in comparison. It hurts, but he does too much, Raven, and even though you share a deep, common bond with him, it is nothing to what you and Garfield have. Time developed that relationship, and it has withstood time. It will be there when you return. That is why I refused you earlier. I cannot stand idle and let you make this…mistake.'
Despite Love's scathing words hurting her that much more…it was true. She didn't want to believe it, but what her emotion was telling her was true. David did so much, almost as if he was too nice, feeling as if each and everything he did wasn't enough to satisfy her, but wished to believe otherwise, and there was nothing Raven could really do about it, it was his nature to do so.
"You are a part of me," Raven quietly began, lifting her sorrowed head, "and this decision is coming from such reliable sources as yourself and the others, I….respect it. If you think continuing any farther into this relationship with David is wrong, then…so…be it. I do not know how I will tell him this though; it will utterly devastate him."
"The sooner it is done, the better," Love assured, "he will be hurt, yes, deeply hurt, but he will understand, it is in his nature. His nature will allow the two of you to remain very good friends, I promise you. You must push through this and withstand the torrent. Garfield awaits you. You will find a way to severe ties with David on one level, and gain them on another."
When put like that, Raven's sorrow lifted a little. She was correct that David would understand, but like any normal person, would be deeply hurt. He would also remain a friend, at first, a little uncomfortable, but a friend he would remain
"W-what if you're wrong about Garfield and I?" She questioned, wiping a tear away.
"I'm more than positive that after you return, and a short time to get reacquainted, you will finally be able to begin the perfect life that I predict for you, full of fun and excitement along the way." Love positively answered. "Stay true to me, Raven, and I will stay true to you."
Her parting words seemed to put Raven at ease, but it quickly subsided as she lulled over exactly how it was that she was going to break such devastating news upon one that she loved dearly.
"Remember, Raven, time heals all wounds," Love added as she left her sub-conscious, reawakening from her deep meditation.
"Some wounds are deeper than others though," she commented to herself, still dripping wet from the hot springs. "It will be difficult\'85but it must be done. I will find a time, it is yet to be determined, but I will find it, soon."
Meanwhile, Gecko lay awake in his bed, staring up at the bamboo-slat ceiling, feeling absolutely ashamed of himself. Unable to sleep, he continued to think of what he had done.
"It has to be me, I know it, I can almost feel it,\'94 he said to himself, \'93I tried to do something that she wasn't ready for, and-, I don't know, just thinking about it makes me ashamed of myself. Me of all people, doing this, I just find it…absolutely mind-boggling. I had sworn to be loyal and caring and I let my emotions get the better of me. She may have started it, but I should have been conscious enough to know where to stop, and I failed to do so. If she hates me…I don't blame her, but I can only hope for the best. That's about all I have left to do now."
After a night of torment for both Raven and Gecko in separate manners, yet both pertaining to the other, the day of much-waited anticipation had finally arrived. In the early morning mist as the sun rose, the duo found them seated upon their knees before Master Hui, who was dressed in ceremonial garments of some forgotten past that either had never seen before. Gecko wore his rarely used black gi with green trim, while Raven wore the only remaining dark blue one that she had dyed and hadn't ripped the sleeves off of. Today was for honor, that honor to be bestowed upon them for having completed such rigorous training and mastering every technique that Master Hui, and in Raven's case, Gecko had to offer. They came as students of the arts, they were to leave as masters to train others. There was still much to learn, but they had learned all they could from Master Hui. The rest of the world awaited for them to bestow their knowledge upon others in hopes of disciplining those who sought the knowledge.
"David-san and Raven-chan," Master Hui stated, looking at each of them, "you have come a long way from humble beginnings as artists of the arts. For years, you have trained every day for many hours in hopes of improving your techniques, as well as learning others. Over these years, you have done just that. As your master, I have nothing left to teach, you both have learned so much so quickly what has taken many to learn in years, you have done in months, and techniques requiring years of practice to master, you have done in mere months. Both of you are extravagantly gifted and use your knowledge wisely, just as a true martial artist should. With that being said, I would like to see exactly what it is that you have learned and hope to change the world with by learning everything I have to offer. David-san, you are first."
"Yes, Sensei," he honorable replied, climbing to his feet.
He distanced himself from the two of them, taking a deep breath in the early daylight as he concentrated, preparing to go through his forms that he had learned beneath her to prove he could truly use them.
With superb skill and concentration, he moved gracefully from one style to the other, giving various attacks in a linked manner that never ended, all fluid and uninterrupted.
After what seemed like ages, he finally came to a rest, clearly breathing from his exertion and concentration, taking a traditional bow to Master Hui.
"Very good, David-san," she congratulated, turning to find Raven deep in meditation, "Raven-chan, it is your time."
She slowly opened her eyes, answering her calling.
"Yes, Sensei," Raven acknowledged, gracefully climbing to her feet, preparing to motion through the many forms that she had learned in her stay atop the mountain.
"Okay, just relax…" Raven thought as she prepared to begin, taking a deep, much-needed breath, "nice and easy…fluid like water."
Without any break in her smooth motion, Raven quickly found her way into one of her more simple forms, ready to demonstrate. With speed and concentration she had yet to accomplish, Raven literally pranced about, only the sharpness of her attacks could be heard through the still air of early morn.
"Mantis…Tiger…Dragon…" her mind instructed, moving from one style to the next without hesitation, all seamlessly falling together into a very well choreographed demonstration. "Monkey…Eagle…Serpent…."
The impressive display ended in a stance that Master Hui had yet to see, but looked rather effective, offensively sound and defensively useful.
"Most impressive, Raven-chan," she congratulated, "what is this stance here? What do you call it?"
A meek smile beamed upon her face.
"I call it Raven style, Master Hui," she informed proudly, "a selection of various attacks, as well as my own, to create a unique and effective fighting style that is mine only. I am only able to do such a thing with your teachings, Master."
Master Hui nodded, essentially giving Raven a motion to kneel before her once more.
"Both of you have made me very proud today," she began, joy in her voice, "I know that my best students will take my teachings and change the world, using them to combat evil and protect those in need. You will do it out of honor, out of duty, not out of vengeance or personal gain. I do not take many students because of their corruption…you two are not. Your souls are far from tainted, your lives may bear the hardships you have experienced, but your souls will never be. As you leave my mountain accomplished, there will be but one adversary…yourself. Your toughest challenge will to overcome yourself. Do that, and no opponent, or enemy for that matter, will be considered a threat. Children…you have my blessings. Before you today, you have mastered all that I have to teach and are ready to move on to much more important things. Just don't forget about me, I do get lonely here."
Her finishing statement managed to arise a chuckle from both of them, despite the seriousness of the task at hand. Yet, Master Hui appeared to be holding something, approaching Raven. By the shape of it, as well as it's size, it was rather obvious that it was a sword in sheath.
"Raven-chan, as a token of appreciation, as well as a gift for your hard work and dedication, I present this to you," she informed, bowing down to place the weapon in Raven's outstretched palms, resting it flat. "You have earned this, it is rightfully yours."
In proper procedure, Raven removed the blade from the decorated sheath, watching the sunlight reflect off of the gleaming blade as it was honed to a mirror finish. Engraved with oriental symbols, Raven was able to make out her name and what appeared to be a blessing of some sort due to the help of Gecko's lessons in various things. The grip was wrapped in a traditional style, accompanied by an amethyst handle, all capped by a gold piece shaped in the form of a bird's head, slightly curved, and clearly resembling a raven. It was quite clear that it was a hand-crafted masterpiece, and made specifically for her.
"I am most humbled and honored to accept this, Master," Raven bowed after placing the weapon back in its sheath.
"Treat it as if it was a part of you, child, and it will do you no wrong," Master Hui alluded, getting a gentle bow in agreement.
"Now rise, children," she instructed, motioning for them to do so, "your unarmed techniques are impeccable, now it is time to demonstrate your weapon skills. Each of you is proficient in one aspect, David, you have mastered sword techniques that have taken many decades to do so in a fraction of the time, and Raven, your skill with a staff is unrivaled, I have never seen one wield one in such a manner as yourself. Yet, in your trainings, you have sought to better yourselves in your weaker elements…
Her words seemed to drown out as Raven tuned her out, despite being disrespectful, it was out of concern as she studied David. She could tell that something was wrong with him, ever since seeing him since waking up, he was deep in thought, and quite obvious to her. From what she could tell, his thoughts were that of worry, possibly fear, and Raven knew why. Yesterday's…escapades, more over, the results, had gotten to him, and she didn't blame him. Under the circumstances, it appeared that she had pushed him away, and he felt as if it was his fault to begin with. Despite the sickening feeling of just the thought, Raven realized that this was quite possibly the best opportunity to do Love's sick and, in Raven's thoughts, demented bidding. For once, she was happy in this nightmare of hers, and the least expectant thing happens to forbid her from keeping it. It didn't make any sense, but the more the thought of it, the reasoning was coming forth. Intelligence indeed had chosen David, and rightly so, he was the better pick, but everything isn't so black and white, as there was a gray area in this little matter, and Love was residing in it in her decision. Garfield was the first, the truest, and even though he didn't seem like the best choice between them, it was the best.
After a long, heartfelt goodbye that seemed to drag on, Raven and David where on their way, embarking on her quest to return home, as it was all that she had left to do. She didn't mind though, Master Hui had done everything she possibly could to educate Raven, and even became somewhat of welcomed sight day in and day out, she was going to miss her greatly. Raven made a personal note in her subconscious to return one day to visit, the time yet to be determined, but it was to happen. In her travels, people such as Master Hui were too far few in between. If anything, besides the loss of her powers, Raven managed to get a reality check of sorts, changing her outlook on the world. Once stuffy, somewhat boring to the others or at least that's what she thought her friends thought of her, now a rather robust individual by any standards. She had no idea that her words of her former self meeting a fate that she had been refused held somewhat of a truth. Raven had died, and risen from the ashes a completely different person, ready to take on anything the world or otherwise had to throw at her. Only inconvenience was the notion, nay, the possibility that even her own friends and teammates wouldn't even recognize her, let alone believe that she was alive. A thought she refused to believe, but always remained ever-vigilant in the back of her mind. With every possession, sentimental or otherwise, she carried upon her back, sword sheathed across her back in a diagonal manner due to its cumbersome shape. The old Raven would have collapsed beneath the weight she bore upon her back, but it was something that she was more than used to now. Even though she seemed out of her element, Raven was enjoying the tree canopy overhead, shading the surroundings from the basking warmth of the late summer. With her new knowledge, Raven deduced that it was the dead of winter, or at least colder than usual, back in Jump City, but not even that could turn her away. With a rarely-used path ahead of them and a compass in her hand, all she could think of was traveling east in hopes of finding passage home. Japan seemed the most logical choice, not only a thriving metropolis of millions strong, but also the location of an honorary Titan that would be more than obliging to aid her, the lone samurai of the modern age known as Bushido. She vaguely remembers him being present during her dilemma and hour of need against Slade, and will be sure to thank him for his aid. Despite her merriment of sorts as she thought of her elaborate return to those that she called family, Raven's heart was in utter despair compared by no other. After Love's choice twisting a knife in her heart…several times over, she was more than devastated. The façade she put on to contain her true feelings was a challenge indeed, but it was necessary, not just for her, but for David. If there was anyone in the entire world that felt worse than she did….it was him. She loved him so, but Love said otherwise, and she was still finding it hard to believe that her emotion was right. How could David not be her soul mate, especially comparing to that of Garfield? It was mind-boggling to say the least, but Raven knew it would be easier to just accept the truth. Yet, in any case, David being within proximity hadn't helped matters much as he traveled with her…just like he promised he would. It made her feel so heartless to do such a thing to him, especially a person like him. Yet, by Love's decree, Raven and he were not to be. It had been nearly two days since they had departed Master Hui's training grounds atop the mountain, and not a word had been spoken between them, or at least nothing like what they had before, maybe giving a direction every once and a while, but nothing more. Raven had shot him in the heart, and turned it upon herself…metaphorically speaking. Something had to be done to at least attempt to mend what was between them to retain friendship.
"D-David?" Raven finally spoke, as if he was someone she barely knew, and regretted her tone.
"Rae, I'm so sorry, I didn't mean-, I didn't mean to hurt you," he quickly replied, as if he had been penting it up for hours…which was actually true.
"Hurt me? David, you're the last person that could hurt me," She reasoned, having more than a good idea to what he was referring to, and regretted using it as a reason for her actions, despite it being a lie.
"The other night, I know I did," he answered, "I could tell by the way you left."
Raven stopped, turning around to face him as he followed her.
"I told you, it wasn't you…it was me," Raven informed, "something…happened, an-"
Gecko rested a hand upon her shoulder.
"There's no need to explain yourself, Rae, I know you're trying to make me feel better about the situation, but I know what I did was so wrong, so chauvinistic, so…"
"Not like you?" Raven finished for him, trying to work a little of her reverse psychology.
"Exactly," he answered with a motion of his hand, "I had become what I didn't want to be, what I always tried to prevent. I let my hormones get the better of me, and I regret it, so, Rae, I'm sorry, and I hope you're not upset or hurt in anyone because of it. I'd take it back in a heartbeat if I could."
"He took the bait," Raven thought, "time to become a heartless bitch and set the hook. I really do regret doing this, but it's for the best. If Love thinks this is the correct choice…and since I don't really have a say in the matter, then so be it."
She took a breath, quite possibly what felt long the longest and most difficult one she had ever taken.
"David," she began, struggling with the very concept, "you…of all people, I can't…believe that you did that. I'll admit, my hormones ran high as well, but logic kicked in just in time. You…you took advantage of the situation."
"Rae, please," Gecko almost begged, clearly becoming evident in his eyes. "I'd do anything to take it back, anything. You're the last person I would want to hurt or feel uncomfortable in any way, shape, or form. I'm sorry, I really am."
Though as difficult as it seemed, Raven bit her lip, fighting the urge to forgive him like she naturally would have done, but it was her duty, as per Love's instructions, to sever the relationship down to friends, nothing more, but most certainly nothing less. She forced herself to do the least forgiving thing she could think of.
She turned her back to him, brushing his hand away in the process.
"Some things can't be made up with just apologies, David, you of all people know that," Raven finally managed, keeping her voice true without breaking. "After all the time we have spent together, you still attempted to take advantage. Like I said, your…approach was welcomed, but brutally manipulative of both of us. "Heat of the moment" or not…I find it very displeasing. You have no idea on how much I actually condemn your actions, David."
It was evident that he was more than upset, his eyes shimmering with welled-up tears yet to fall. It appeared to be his turn to have the cold steel of the knife thrust into his heart, and twisted manically by Love. She had managed to claim two victims thus far in her quest for righteousness, and Raven only prayed that would be the end of her meddling in her affairs dealing in the subject.
"W-what are you saying, Rae?" David attempted, only hoping not to hear what Raven was about to speak of.
She swallowed hard as she faced away, wiping her own tears of grievance over the situation away, sniffling as well.
"I'm saying that w-we…" she began, her words broken, unlike her usual, monotonous demeanor that was accustomed, "we're..." She wiped another lone tear from her eye, "we should be nothing more than…friends. Nothing more…nothing less."
David was utterly devastated, unable to believe what he had heard. The words she said literally ripped his soul to shreds, but his exterior remained somewhat strong, as strong as any normal person could be.
"N-no, Rae, please," he managed, almost begging, "why? I-I love you."
"David, please don't make this any harder than it already is," Raven pressed, stepping away from his as he reached for her. She continued to fight every impulse in her body that was telling her otherwise. "I feel it is better off for both of us in the long run that we are…friends."
She faced him once more, despite fighting the urge to do so. Before her was indeed David, but he was oddly calm, finally lifting his head in silence to make eye contact with her.
"If that's the way you feel…" he managed, remaining composed the best he could, "then so be it. I love you enough…to respect your decision, no matter what. If we are not meant to be together, then I will keep a friendship of the utmost caliber with you."
Despite the pain, Raven managed to produce a weak smile.
"I made a promise, Rae," David continued, "I would protect you no matter what, give my life if need be…I'm not about to break it now."
"Yeah, a promise," she thought as she only kept her smile, "a promise that I repay by ripping your heart to shreds and taking away what purpose you had. I swear that Love better be correct in her choice, otherwise, the next time I see her…things will not be pretty."
After this traumatic experience, time seemed to drag on even slower than it had ever done before, but the evening finally came. Much more serene than the chatter of daytime creatures of the jungle, the sounds of the nocturnal was more than relaxing, only supplemented by the crackling of the fire between David and Raven. It was evident that she had hurt him deeply, quite possibly the deepest he had ever been before, but he remained by her side to fulfill his promise. His loyalty, even after her betrayment, was of the highest caliber, and only pushed Raven even farther into her hidden depression. Both of them hid what was truly felt towards the other in an attempt to smooth everything over in the long run, producing a lasting relationship as friends unmarred by their undying feelings. It was becoming quite evident how hard this managed to hit home for him as they sat through the first silent meal between them ever since she had first arrived at Master Hui's mountaintop. David merely bid her good night as he created somewhat of a space not far from her, still within his protectorate, but enough to provide the much-needed space of their separation as lovers. Raven laid there, staring up at the night sky as the fire died down, watching the millions of stars shining back at her, only eclipsed by the immense beauty of the full moon overhead. She turned over, letting out a sigh of frustration.
"I don't know what to do," she thought, trying to pull the cover of her pallet tighter, "I killed him on the inside and he's slowly dying on the outside, nothing left but a shell, and I can't stand to see him like this. There has to be something I can do, anything."
Raven thought, remembering what Love had told her, letting it sift through her racked mind, only to have a clear message finally come forth, a devious smile creeping across Raven's lips.
"Love said we were not meant to be," Raven's mind raced, sitting up, "but she didn't say where we couldn't be together. I don't know if I can still do it, but in theory, I can astrally project myself into his mind, and we can be together, but not at the same time. Anything can be done with magic, but I call it fate."
Her eyes drifted to the sleeping form of David, who was facing away on his side, using his backpack of belongings as a pillow of sorts. With the utmost secrecy not to wake him, Raven took up her usual meditation form, relaxing as she did so.
"Alright, here goes nothing," she whispered as she closed her eyes, controlling her breathing. With her breathing in check, she even took control of her heart rate, slowing it down significantly to usher in her meditative form.
"Azarath…Metrion…Zinthos," Raven uttered, feeling somewhat of a nostalgia wash over her, as well as the welcomed feeling of her soul self slowly leaving her physical form. She looked down, seeing her body still dormant, more than happy with her accomplishment. The first time she had managed to call upon part of her powers successfully since her bout with Slade so long ago, it was quite possible she was on the eve of gaining them back once more. She only hoped, but wasted not time, not knowing how long it would last as her soul form rushed through the air, diving right into David's head, disappearing.
Once inside, Raven noticed something…similar to hers. Unlike the uneven terrain shrouded in darkness and mystery, everything seemed to be uniform, strongly built, and much brighter compared to what she experienced in her own mind. It was as if David painstakingly built his subconscious through deep meditation to mend mind and body as one.
"Wow," Raven commented, her voice echoing throughout the cavernous display of engineering marvel, "this place is…impressive to say the least. He'd probably laugh if he saw what mine looked like, but I have my reasons. In any case, time to search for him, I only hope he's around here somewhere."
Raven began walking, hoping to find some sign of him being present. The path led up a series of stairs, so it was only logical he would be at the top of them. She climbed them with ambition, wishing to seek him out, hopefully having a solution to their split dilemma and ease the pain somewhat. As she approached the top, she overheard sounds of fighting, more than likely hand to hand.
"What on earth is that?" she quietly said to her self as she quickly scaled the remaining steps, finally cresting over the top of the stairs. What she saw before her was quite…confusing. It appeared that David was sparring with the green, lizard creature that she managed to get a glimpse of during their encounter with Slade. Both dressed the same and sharing somewhat similar characteristics, Raven knew it had to be him, or at least one of them was David.
"David?" Raven called out cautiously, hoping to get his attention.
His head quickly turned, seeing Raven, but before he could reply, what Raven assumed was his demonic half managed to connect rather robustly with a strike to the face, knocking him down. The demon was surprised to say the least. He helped his human counterpart back up, dusting him off.
"Disstraction iss your worssst enemy," he commented with his forked tongue, a smirk of devious nature on his reptilian mouth, giving a glimpse of his razor sharp teeth.
"If it's her, than I'm more than willing to experience it," David replied back, adjusting his jaw somewhat, "hold on for a sec, I'll be right back."
The demon merely nodded, crossing his arms as he waited for him.
"H-how did you get in here?" David questioned unbelievably, more than happy to see her, "I thought only your powers allowed you to do this kind of thing?"
"They do," she replied with a smirk, "I think I'm starting to get them back through meditation and rigorous training like we've been taking part in. In any case, I managed to project myself here. Besides, don't you ever take a break? After everything you do during the day, you come here to train in your sleep?"
"Why, yes, actually," David beamed, proud of his achievement, "seeing how I'm such a busy individual and all, I need all the training I get, so why not while I sleep?"
"Just don't overdo it, okay?" Raven requested, getting a huff of a laugh from him, "I came here to inform you of something."
Gecko noticed she was serious, so he straightened up somewhat, crossing his arms before him.
"What is it that requires you to inform me here, is it really that serious?" He questioned, still not quite sure of her motives.
"It is, mainly an explanation, David…an explanation of why I did what I did, and I only hope that you will believe me."
"I'm more than positive I'll believe you," he stated, ready to hear what she had to say.
Raven took a long, drawn breath as she attempted to find a way to start what would be a preposterous story to most.
"I don't know if you've seen my subconscious, David, but it is somewhat similar to yours, but my powers are fueled by my emotions. My emotions are actual physical representations in my mind, like you and your demonic form are. I have 7 main emotions that are made up of many weaker ones, all together making me. They are Happiness, Intelligence, Bravery, Love, Rage, Obnoxious, and Timid, each having a specific color to separate them from one another. In any case, David, Love, one of my separate emotions, decided it was not best that you and I were not to be together. She gave me this irritable, burning sensation in my heart the other night, that's why I couldn't continue. David, I love you, and I want to be with you, but ironically, Love says that it isn't best, and she can control what I can and can't do. When I said it was me and it wasn't you David, I meant it."
David was somewhat awestruck listening to her, shaking his head as he attempted to regain his thought process.
"So let me get this straight," he began, attempting to decipher, "you do love me, and do want to be with me, but Love…this apparition of yours, says that we shouldn't be together? So I didn't hurt you the other night?"
"Correct, and no, David, you didn't," Raven assured, "you did the opposite, it was her doing that caused what had happened. I forced myself to do what I did to you today, despite listening to all logic and reasoning, I did the opposite. I want to be with you, but my heart says otherwise."
"How is that so?" David questioned, dumbfounded, "What is your heart telling you?"
"Love told me that my heart…belongs to someone else," Raven forced herself to say, getting somewhat of a surprised look from David. "One of my teammates on the Titans, before all of this happened to me, finally revealed his feelings to me, essentially stopping me from making the biggest mistake of my life. He stopped me from killing the only family that I had in this world. Love tells me that we share a deep bond that is unrivaled by no other, now and forever, and said that I should pursue it."
"W-who is this teammate of yours?" David requested, pursuing information, remembering how she spoke of them, but not too centered upon the names at the moment.
"Beast Boy," Raven answered, "his name is Garfield, Garfield Logan."
"The green one?" Gecko continued, getting a nod from Raven, in turn, letting out a sigh himself as he rubbed the back of his head, "are you sure she's right on that one? Not that he isn't a good guy for you, but I mean, I thought I was doing everything right. Besides, doesn't he have a thing for the rock girl, uh, uh, Terra, yeah, that's her name, Terra."
"That's just it," Raven replied, "I don't know, Love is basically taking a gamble on this one, and I'm not sure it's the right choice, but I can't tell her otherwise since she's in control in that department. The more I try to fight her, the more she hurts me in return, and there's nothing I can do about it."
"So you're saying that we can't be together because of that?" David disappointingly requested of her. "Well, he's very fortunate and shouldn't take it for granted."
"Essentially…" Raven began, feeling hurt as well, "yes, but, I may have a solution."
"What do you mean a solution?" David pressed, still perplexed. "if you two are meant to be together, then how can their be a solution?"
"She doesn't have jurisdiction over me in the astral realm," Raven stated, "where I am right now, only in the physical world. We could still be together here, but not in the real world. David, I love you enough to willingly be with you in such a way only if you are."
"What about Garfield?"
"He doesn't know I can do this little trick, and besides, it isn't really being together, seeing how this is on the astral plane, understand?"
"Oh, I see," David laughed, a smile finally coming forth, "sneaky, sneaky, Raven. So you get to have your cake and eat it too?"
"Precisely," she laughed, "but only if you're comfortable with it, I don't wish to force you do anything you don't want to or think is right."
"Well, since in theory, it isn't really happening, and could be labeled as dream, correction, astral projection, then there isn't anything wrong with it in my opinion."
Raven wrapped her arms around him, bringing him closer.
"That's all I needed to hear," Raven commented with a devilish grin, "I'll be sure to let you come visit my mind as well, but for now, I like it here, very spacious."
"Hey, was that a crack at m-" David managed, only to be silenced as Raven's lips managed to find a way to his.
"I can only imagine what Love is going to think of this one," Raven thought as she remained embraced with the one she cared for. Indeed her and Garfield are meant to be, but Raven's heart is still with David. Until that point in time the transition it so be made, it will remain so. Yet, to Raven, this was as real as real could be.