CHAPTER 23: CINDERELLA'S ESCAPE

Cyborg crept up towards the shop. He was glad the moon was covered by the clouds, he hoped he wasn't spotted. He pulled his hat downwards, making sure that if there was any light, it wouldn't shine and reflect on his metal components. When he reached the doorstep, he noticed a bundle of clothes … and a hat too.

Well, whoever that was at the ball, she certainly kept her word. It's thus, only fair that he does the same. And so, he took up that bundle of clothes and set down the most convenient item of Raven's that he could find - her belt.

Looking around, he wondered again why that woman could possibly want her belt. Then again, she said that he'll know why tomorrow, well, tonight actually. It must be about 5 AM right now …

Convinced that his actions were not putting Raven in danger, he crept back stealthily to the woods.

Brilliant! The old woman smiled as she brought in the belt. Cyborg had tried to move as silently as he could but her ears and sixth sense could pick up anything. She waited until he was fully gone before opening the door and snatched up the belt.

It was a gold chain with strange little dark, blood-red stones on it. On a closer look she recognised them as the sacred stones of Azarath. She smiled, it really was a rare thing, these stones. And they're just the perfect thing for Raven's new gown.

This one, would be dark blue, the colour of midnight. It shall be made entirely out of the finest, softest silk. And the belt will be hanging from the waist, sliding down …

But first, she needed to prepare it. So, the old woman walked over to that pot. She opened the lid and saw that it was ready. Lying the belt on the wooden floor, she poured the pot's contents onto Raven's belt. She watched as the transparent liquid was absorbed by the object. It glowed white and turned black, before returning back to normal.

The old woman lifted it up and walked about the room, silently, so as to not wake Raven. Now, where did she last leave her golden needle and thread … ?

She found it finally, hidden in a corner of one of her many shelves. She started to sew and knit quickly. The old woman's fingers were nimble and flew over the cloth, her needle flashing in and out of the midnight blue. The thread, sparkling gold, like sunlight.

Then, the old woman lifted a box from her shelf and in it, contained many rare and precious stones. After some rummaging, she eventually found what she was looking for, the stone of Azarath. She had only three, but they will do nicely.

She fitted one of them on the end of the V-shaped neckline, with small rubies leading up to it. Then, she attached another one to the end of one sleeve and did the same to the other. Tiny white crystals were attached to every part of the dress and she quickly stitched on golden, whirly patterns on the hem of the dress and around the neckline and sleeves.

Finally, it was time to add the final bit of the dress - the belt. The old woman fitted it around the waist, tilting downwards, to the left a little. It was a perfect addition to the gown. The gown, looked complete with it on and was ready for the night.

The old woman shaped, with magic, a pair of glass slippers for Raven. She used nearly all her magic resources to make this pair. Instead of turning into common, cotton slippers like the other two, this one, will last, throughout the night and eternity. It will be the most clear, most reflective, most perfectly cut glass slippers she's ever made.

Stepping back, the old woman admired her creations. The Prince will not be able to resist her. Everything was so perfect. Raven's clothes for tonight would be the best out of the rest. Though, since tonight, she will carry out her most important step yet, that Boy, might suspect her.

She had a feeling he would and the old woman pondered this. How was she going to help Raven and herself escape in time? Then, the answer came to her. It was simple, and she was surprised that she hadn't thought of that sooner. There was another forest behind her, everything was going to be fine. Though, it did rely quite heavily on Raven's belt.

The old woman hoped her spell worked and the belt would work its charm. It was her only chance of succeeding. Raven was too … not evil. She just didn't understand the ways things has to be done. She'll never be able to persuade Raven to do it on her own. The belt was just … a little encouragement, that's all.

From the corner of her eye, she saw Raven stir in her sleep. She was waking soon and the old woman now felt drained from staying up all night and working all the magic she had on the gown and glass slippers in such a short time.

Putting away the last gown and shoes she would make, the old woman blew out the candle and opened up a hidden secret door, camouflaged at the side of one of the walls. She stepped into the invisible room, worked with magic and lay her head on the bed.

It was time, for her to finally rest …

Raven tingled with excitement as the old woman helped her get ready for the last of the three masquerade balls. Then, she calmed herself, reminding herself to stay in control of her emotions.

She donned on the dress and looked at herself in the mirror. Once again, she has turned into someone she doesn't recognise anymore. The gown was perfect, and was just a reminder of who she was. She had no idea how the old woman found her belt or got hold on some of the stones on Azarath, but Raven was glad she did. Though, there was this smothering feeling when Raven put the gown on … she couldn't quite place what it was …

Suddenly, Raven's mind went blank. And even thought she didn't know it, her pupils had completely disappeared. Behind her, the old woman smiled slyly.

"Come on, my dear. It is time for your mask and shoes."

Raven turned and let the old woman put on her velvet mask, framed in gold and her glass slippers without any comment. Then, she ushered her into her carriage, now, black in colour with golden wheels and patterns all over.

Before she stepped into the carriage however, the old woman stopped her and whispered in her ear, "Now remember, child, when you become Queen, you will kill the King Alexander and step down, and give The Enchantress your crown …"

Raven hesitated, but something stopped her from thinking, and she nodded. And then, the old woman waved her off as the carriage sped its way to the Royal castle.

Meanwhile, the old woman went inside the shop, waited and closed her eyes. When she opened them, she became who she really was - a woman in her mid-twenties. The Enchantress.

Well, it was time. The last thing she had to do before Raven makes her promise and steps down. It was time, to assassinate the King of England.

It was the last night and everyone in the ballroom was fizzing with excitement. Everyone … but Beast boy. He walked into the room with a daunting sort of feeling. This was to be the night where Prince Alexander would announce his bride to all. But Robin won't let Raven marry him right? They still had to get back home when they caught the assassin … which they still have no proper leads. No one could seem to pinpoint who poisoned the Queen or Princess Anne. Though, whoever that was, it was the same person.

They tried asking around the village, but everyone said that the Royal family had no enemies. It was certainly very strange. And when asked who they had executed recently, it was only a man who was hanged for murder, a woman who was a highway man and a witch who was burned at the stake. The Titans still remained clueless.

Beast boy watched the King and Prince standing at the balcony, Finally, after a few minutes, the King spoke.

"People of England! May I welcome you to the third night of Prince Alexander's masquerade balls! Tonight, before midnight strikes, he will announce his bride, soon-to-be, the Queen of England!"

The people below cheered enthusiastically.

"And now, without further ado, let the ball begin!"

And then, the musicians started a lively tune and everyone started to do a common village dance. Even the Titans joined in, though, Beast boy stood at one corner … waiting. Where was Raven? She should be here by now.

And as if my magic, Raven appeared. Everyone stopped dancing to look, and gasp at the sight. Tonight, she looked more beautiful yet! In a midnight blue dress, made entirely out of silk, and with her belt on … she looked like Raven, like, herself. Beast boys's mouth went dry and he watched her walk gracefully into the ballroom … and into the Prince's arms.

He turned and took in several deep breaths. Nothing to worry about, she was just doing her job, she was protecting the Prince. It took ten minutes before he had calmed down enough to watch them dance around the ballroom, staring into each other's eyes as if they were the only two people there.

Then, a girl suddenly grabbed his hand, giggling as she pulled him to the center of the room.

"Uh …" Beast boy was startled, "I don't feel like -"

"Shhhhh!" the girl hushed him and helped him place an arm on her waist while she rested her arm on his. Then, she held his other hand and began to step to the music.

Beast boy danced clumsily and was feeling uncomfortable. But he didn't say a word, lest he might embarrass the girl or something and tried his best to dance properly, all the while, looking at his feet.

Then, the music came to a close and he was glad to step away from the girl. She curtsied and shot him a rather flirtatious look. He smiled back weakly. Then, the King made an announcement.

"Now, I want you step away from her current partners but do not move. Instead, turn around to dance with the person behind you."

Music started, low and soft, Beast boy reluctantly turned. What if it is another giggly girl? He wasn't exactly in the best mood to dance right now. But when he turned, he had the shock of his life. Standing in front of him, was none other than …

Raven.

Others had already started to dance but they remained still, staring at each other. Both not speaking, unmoving.

"May I …" Beast boy started. Then someone came over him and he finished off with a whisper, "May I … hold you?"

When she did not answer, he silently did what the girl had done, he placed a slightly trembling hand on her waist and placed her arm on his. With his other hand, he held her's gently. Boldly, he took one step towards her and found himself to be the same height to her, which meant, her eyes were directly in front of his.

He gently led Raven into the dance and she followed, perfectly, gracefully. It was as if they had practiced this. Beast boy found himself to be staring into her eyes and he did not once, look on the floor or his feet.

But something was wrong, she was unusually quiet, he expected an irritated sigh or a smart remark but Raven remained silent, even after five minutes into the dance. Beast boy suddenly noticed, that her eyes … was dull tonight, it no longer sparkled with life and, and … her pupils had gone. He searched her eyes for any emotion at all, but there were none.

The music stopped before he knew it, and he gave her a final twirl. A sudden sadness washed over him. Something had happened to her, something bad … And he wished he could help, but he wasn't sure if he could.

"Raven …" he whispered and hugged her, "What's wrong?" he lifted his head to look but her face only had confusion over it. She looked like she was trying to figure out, who he was.

"I'm Beast boy … remember?" he said, with hope in his voice, but she only shook her head and blinked at him.

Then, quick footsteps approached them and he noticed the Prince coming, Raven's head turned also and a smile lit up her face when she saw him. Beast boy's heart shriveled up a bit more and he stepped away quickly and hurried off.

Cybrog felt guilty. But he hoped they'd understand. He had left them a note saying he was going to the ball on his own, his reason being wanted to investigate the grounds for any clues about the assassin. But his real reason was - to escort Janet to the ball.

He had brought her a lavender gown and dressed himself in her house, careful to not let his metal parts show. Then, he walked her to the castle.

He couldn't help but think of how pretty she was in her gown. But, Cyborg promised himself to not let anyone, especially Beast boy, know about this. Beast boy would only tease him even more. He didn't get why he was so immature, what was so funny about liking someone that you knocked down accidentally?

Well, at least no one, not even the Titans saw him walk into the ballroom slightly late. Robin and Starfire were dancing happily and Beast boy … glaring at Raven and the Prince. That was another thing he didn't understand. Did he hate Raven? Or was the Prince giving him problems?

But Cyborg shrugged it all off when Janet pulled him into the dance. Some things, are just better left alone.

The time was now 11.45. It should be any moment right now. The Enchantress's eyes kept flicking from the clock to the dancing couple, back and forth, back and forth. She was getting impatient. When was he going to speak? She stroked the leather handle behind her back, and shuffled closer to the wall, so no one could see what she was holding …

The Enchantress reminded herself to be patient. The time will soon arrive.

And it did. She watched as the Prince stopped dancing with Raven and led her to his father, the King. They were all now standing at the platform, where the two thrones are. The Prince whispered something to the King and he raised a hand for silence and attention. The music stopped, people turned and he cleared his throat. The Enchantress watched closely, and gripped tightly on the handle.

"People of England! I am very pleased to announce that my son, your Future King, Prince Alexander, has chosen his bride!"

Beast boy watched from a corner. He was perspiring, and his whole body tensed. Why was Raven up there with the King and Prince? Of course! She was going to be the Prince's bride!

Robin and Starfire, standing a few couples in front of him, were confused. They had expected Raven to protect Prince Alexander, not marry him! But wait, she wouldn't really … right? Raven doesn't just lose her head for a Prince she's only met last two nights ago! She couldn't really marry him!

Perhaps, she wasn't maybe, she was just up there to … to what? Beast boy trembled and he prayed silently. He didn't know why he cared so much, but he did, and that was all that mattered.

"They will marry tomorrow, in the Royal Church, at sunset. And now, my people, it is time to reveal your Future Queen of England - Lady …"

Beast boy clenched his fists and his eyes shut, he felt dizzy and out of air … then, he realised he's been holding his breath.

" … Future Queen of England - Lady …"

The Enchantress waited, say it! Say her name now! She slowly drew out her dagger … Shiny and just sharpened, just waiting to sink itself into flesh … Beads of perspiration had formed on her forehead. Everyone in the ballroom was waiting too, everyone was holding their breath.

"Lady Raven!"

Beast boy felt sick and he hurried out of the ballroom and onto the steps of the castle, where he went the other night. The guards, now familiar with him, did not do anything but let him collapse there.

No … not Raven! And he realised how stupid he was, he should have stayed, to watch how she would respond, she could be declining! Maybe, there was hope! He stood up weakly as the clock struck, he counted … it was midnight.

The clock chimed. The Enchantress smiled and she aimed, and threw with all her might. The crowd, at first erupted in applause at the announcement, but now watched terrified, as a shiny dagger, hurtled through the air, cutting it, turning and spinning. Everything seemed to slow.

Raven, hearing the clock, didn't stay to watched what happened next, instead, she ran and the crowd parted in surprise.

"Raven!" Prince Alexander rushed, running behind her.

Then, the crowd gasped as the dagger found its way into the coat of the King, sinking in his heart. She watched as the King fell in a heap to the floor.

Raven? Beast boy heard someone running and saw Raven madly dashing from the ballroom. She stumbled a bit on the steps but continued running, as if she never noticed him. Then, he noticed what had made her stumble - a glass slipper. She's dropped it!

"Raven! Wait! You dropped -"

"Where's Lady Raven?" a voice panted beside him. Beast boy saw the Prince running up to him, his eyes fixed on the glass slipper.

"Your highness!" a guard cried, then bowed, "Your … Majesty … your father -"

"What happened to my father?" the Prince paled.

"It was a flying dagger, no one knew who threw -"

But the Prince was already rushing back inside.

Beast boy's head was spinning. Someone threw a dagger? At the King? Could it be … no, it couldn't have been Raven. Too many would have recognised and the guard would have mentioned her name, so who was it? He picked up Raven's glass slipper and tucked it in his pocket, then, he looked to the castle and towards the road.

The Titans would be investigating now, should he join them? But somehow, something told him that though Raven may not have murdered the King, she was connected to it, in a way. And besides … she did lose her glass slipper. It was only right to return what belongs to her.

And so, Beast boy set off, running off to the direction Raven went, calling.

Inside, madness ensued. Cyborg couldn't believe what had happened. The King - killed! And Raven … the Prince's bride? He needed to find Robin, now. But then, something very strange happened …

Cyborg's hat, it started to wrapped itself around his face, leaving his nose and eyes open, but it covered up everything else, like a sort of mask, and his suit, somehow stiffened and moved! Yes, he found himself lifting up a leg, and another, soon, he was running. Running past the platform and up a spiral staircase. He tried to stop, but the suit wouldn't let him!

He heard Janet gasp and try to follow. Then, he heard an "Over there!" by Starfire.

"Titans, GO!" Robin yelled and more footsteps joined Janet's. Starfire was flying and soon they found themselves running through castle tunnels. Cyborg tried to yell back that it was him, but the mask prevented him from speaking, and all that came out was a muffled sort of sound!

"Stop! Stop right now!" Robin called. The suit managed to dodge all that Robin threw and Starfire's star bolts too.

He wondered why the suit and hat was able to do this … then he panicked, it must be magic! But why? And who? He's never seen that woman before! He continued to run through more tunnels, past rooms and then, it tripped on a small stone on the ground and fell down a flight of stairs!

Then, Robin fired out a net and successfully caught him. When Cyborg hit the ground, everything was dark. Starfire flew down and lit a torch, they found themselves to be at an armory. Janet was the last to arrive and she was panting and perspiring furiously. Then … she fainted.

"Show yourself!" said Robin fiercely. Cyborg tried to talk but again, he was muffled.

Robin frowned and grabbed the hat-mask. He started to yank, but it wouldn't come off. Finally, combined with Starfire's strength, they managed to pull it off.

"Cyborg?" Robin and Starfire cried in disbelief.

A/N: Alas! That is all for today! For some reason, I had fun writing this chapter. And once again, thank you to all your support! Remember to review. :)