The Gotham News Network wasn't the nation's number one news network, but it had its niche: They covered superhero news better than anyone else. And the reporter on the TV was talking about just that.
In some unexpected news today our crew caught Superman bringing an unusual guest to the Hall of Justice in Metropolis. As you can see for yourselves the Man of Steel escorted the former Teen Titan known as Cyborg into the Justice League's headquarters. The League has been expanding recently and there is speculation that perhaps Metropolis's other super hero has come back permanently to his hometown. To discuss this we welcome Justice League expert and commentator G. Gordon Godfrey to our studio. So Gordon, what is the Justice League up to?
That's a good question, Summer. Of course, the League is being secretive and tight lipped about this change of events, which is what I have learned to expect from the stand offish Justice League. An organization that, may I remind you, which is neither committed to justice nor is a league. I for one am not surprised that the League is bringing a publicly disgraced "superhero" in their ranks.
Disgraced, Gordon? Isn't that a bit harsh?
Not at all, Summer. After the "Titanic" fiasco last month in San Antonio, how else can one describe the Teen Titans? They created a mess that required the intervention of the United States military to clean up. Face it Summer, the Titans are through, finished. They have no credibility left whatsoever. But let me ask you this, Summer. Haven't you already noticed some disturbing parallels between the Titans and their "big brothers and sisters" in the Justice League?
I'm not sure what you mean, Gordon. Would you mind elaborating?
I'd be more than happy to do so Summer. Consider the following.
First of all, like the Justice League, the Titans had private, off limits headquarters in both Jump and Steele Cities and were building a veritable fortress in San Antonio. Did you ever wonder just what went on inside those fortresses? I sure did. But the Titans refused to disclose what goes on behind closed doors. Does that remind you of another group of "super heroes".
Secondly: Just like the league, they have aliens on their rosters. And it doesn't stop there. They have sorceresses, demonesses and one of those hostile Atlanteans of their team. Is it reasonable to expect that these outsiders have the best interests of our nation at heart? Or do they serve other masters, more sinister interests who possibly see humanity as a tasty morsel to be consumed?
Thirdly: Like the Justice League, they are vigilantes; which means they are thugs, appointing themselves as judge, jury and executioners. No amount of PR can change that. Photo ops in children's wards in hospitals change nothing.
That certainly sounds ominous, Gordon. So you're saying that the Titans will be absorbed into the Justice League.
That's exactly what I'm saying, Summer. And I think it's time that the Justice League come clean and …
A remote control was aimed at the he flat panel monitor, and the TV was shut off.
"He's a blow hard, he doesn't know what he's talking about." A female voice remarked in an irritated tone.
"He knows more than he lets on, Rose. Never forget that the network news is a source of entertainment, not genuine information."
Slade rose from his throne like chair. He was now attired in his old Deathstroke garb, with bullet laden bandoliers criss-crossing his chest. He and his daughter wore matching outfits. The armor was gone and replaced by blue and yellow mail that looked like it was made of fish scales. It was lighter and more flexible than his "Slade" costume. His rigid mask was replaced by one made merely of cloth. His costume, much like Rose's, clung to his body, highlighting his formidable musculature.
"The ones who are truly clueless, my daughter, are the members of the Justice League."
Rose, nodded her agreement. "They think we're after the Titans."
"And that is why they are hiding them. Cyborg is with the Justice League. Starfire and Robin, or should I say 'Nightwing', are with the Dark Knight in Gotham."
"What about Raven and Beast Boy?" She asked.
"Their whereabouts remain unknown. But we won't need to find them, Rose, for when the time is right … they will come to us. And you, my Ravager, will lead my soon to be ready Terror Titans against them."
Rose reached over her back and unsheathed the two swords that were slung over her shoulders. Both blades were razor sharp and gleamed with a sinister sheen under the lair's artificial lights.
"And the Teen Titans will meet their end." She gloated as she twirled her swords before resheathing them.
Slade crossed his arms and an approving baritone remarked. "That's my girl."
-( scene break )-
Even with the flippers Tula gave her, Rachel was having a hard time keeping up with the Atlanteans as they swam back together to the underwater domed city, which reminded her of a giant snow globe. The effect was so pronounced that she was almost expecting Neptune himself to reach over an underwater ridge behind the city, grab the dome and shake it, making it snow inside. Her thighs were beginning to ache and burn when they finally reached one of the airlock entries to the city. It was guarded by some very fierce looking men, who were armed with long and sharp pikes, who saluted Aqualad and his entourage as they entered the airlock. Rachel noticed that the guards cast a suspicious eye her way.
Yeah, I know, I'm one of those "surface dwellers". Deal with it.
Once inside the massive airlock, which could have easily accommodated a hundred people, the reverse of what happened on the submarine occurred. The water was quickly siphoned out of the room and replaced with fresh air.
"Just inhale some air. It will flush out your gills and you'll be able to use your lungs again." Kaldur'ahm instructed her.
Once out of the airlock they were met by a small honor guard, which led them to the King's palace. The city was unlike anything Rachel had ever seen with her own two eyes. She had Raven's memories of Azarath and found the two cities to be comparable. First of all, they were both pristine, full of beautiful buildings and elegant boulevards. There were no vehicles of any kind inside the dome and transportation consisted of a complex network of high speed moving sidewalks. Soon enough they reached the palace, where they were met by a senior member of its staff, and elderly looking woman.
"Wonderful, you are on time for dinner. Please follow me."
She led them through what felt like a labyrinth of hallways until they reached a dead end, where a huge, golden double door was flanked by two burly guards, who swung them open, revealing the Royal dining hall.
A huge round table was in the middle, and Rachel recognized the Aquaman, Arthur, King of Atlantis. At his side was a woman who was obviously his Queen and the rest of the table was already populated by a myriad of Atlanteans. The aquatic monarch rose to his feet and extended an arm to welcome the recent arrivals.
"Welcome home, Garth. Come! I have saved four places for you and your friends!"
As soon as they took their place the banquet began. It consisted of aquatic plant life that was unknown to Rachel. The found the food to be strange in taste and even odder in texture. She politely ate everything that was served to her. It could have been worse. She remembered Raven's trip to Tamaran and the pre wedding banquet given in Starfire's honor. Now that food was strange.
Once the banquet concluded the guests rose and began to mill around, socializing politely as people tended to do when in high society. The King and Queen made the rounds and soon reached Garth and Rachel.
"Welcome to Atlantis, Miss Roth." The Queen greeted her. "I hope that you are enjoying your stay in our fine city."
"I thank you for your hospitality. After the Titans were dissolved I had nowhere else to go."
"Are you saying that your sister would not take you in?" The Queen remarked in a clearly shocked voice.
Rachel sighed. "I suppose that in a pinch she would, but … we don't exactly get along."
Aquaman placed a hand on her shoulder. "It is fortunate that you came. As Deathstroke the Terminator has returned."
Aquaman proceeded to explain to Rachel about how Deathstroke and Slade were one and the same, and told her about how Deathstroke had once been a bane for the Justice League.
"The Justice League has requested that I keep you under my protection, at least until we can determine what Deathstroke is planning."
Rachel understood the King's concern, and graciously thanked him again for his hospitality. After which the King excused himself to mingle with other guests. Garth quickly introduced Rachel to other Atlanteans of their own age, referring to her as his "special friend". Rachel noticed that Garth's peers, while polite, also seemed to be a bit standoffish and didn't appear to be interested in lingering or socializing with her.
Once they were done with the introductions Tula hooked her arm into Garth's.
"Rachel, I need to borrow Garth for a bit. Don't worry; I'll bring him back undamaged." She smiled.
Without waiting for a reply Tula led Aqualad away. Rachel noticed that Kaldur seemed unfazed that his girlfriend had grabbed her ex by the arm and left with him, exiting via a small side door.
"Kaldur, is there a lady's room I can use?"
"There is, out the same door they exited. Once outside turn right. I'll be happy to show you where it is."
"Oh, you don't have to do that. But thanks for offering."
Before he could reply Rachel bolted away and exited through the door, which led to a deserted hallway. She stood still and listened carefully. She heard Tula's hushed voiced to the left. Rachel phased into the floor and travelled towards them. When she reached them she remained in her spectral form and eavesdropped on them. She thought that it was odd that Kaldur didn't seem surprised that Tula wished to speak with her ex in private. While he might not be interested in what they were discussing, Rachel most certainly was. As far as she was concerned, that last place she wanted Garth to be was in an empty hallway with his ex-girlfriend. Rachel got close enough to see and hear them without being noticed and arrived mid conversation.
"Garth, you can't be serious about this woman, she's an outsider! A surface dweller!"
"What's wrong with surface dwellers?" He snapped back at her.
"You know what's wrong with them! Or have you been living so long in Steele City that you've forgotten?"
"Tula, many of them do care about the ocean, they aren't all polluters."
Tula shook her head dismissively. That's not what I'm talking about and you know it."
"Neptune's beard! What are you talking about then?"
Tule began to poke him in the chest. "That woman is wrong for you!"
He laughed derisively. "Oh that's rich! My ex-girlfriend, who dumped me with no warning, is suddenly concerned about my emotional well being."
"Garth, I'm sorry I dumped you, but believe it or not you're still my friend and I care about you. This woman will cause you grief!"
He shook his head. "Oh, please, you don't even know her."
She crossed her arms. "I had Xola research her."
"The psychic? Pffft! She's an old hag! She's also a fake."
"She might be old, but her powers are very real. She researched this Rachel of yours, and you what she found?"
Aqualad scowled at his ex. "Tula, if you want me to take you back … it's too late."
"You idiot! I'm with Kaldur!"
"So why the sudden interest in me?"
Tula huffed before continuing. "She isn't a virgin!"
"What? And how could Xola know that? She's making it up." He barked at her.
"She said that Rachel was defiled by a green man."
Aqualad was unable to conceal his surprise. Tula grinned.
"Ah, so now Xola isn't full of crap after all, is she? Garth, the surface people are not like us. They are promiscuous and sexually unfaithful. They treat sex like a sport, a recreational activity. They lack our sense of morality, our fidelity to our mates."
"Fidelity? You dumped me!"
"We were not bonded yet. It's not the same … Garth … this woman, who knows how many sexual partners she has had. She's been spoiled, she's unworthy of you. You have saved yourself for your wedding night, as all honorable Atlantean men and women do. Why are you so insistent on bonding with that whore?"
He shook his head. "No, I don't believe you. She was dating Beast Boy, that's all."
Tula slowly shook her head. "You poor deluded fool. She was "only dating him"? Do you not follow their culture? They have sex with everyone they date. Or have you become desensitized to their immorality by living among them? Tell me Garth, just how virtuous are your teammates, the Titans East? Xola tells me that Bumblebee has intercourse with her boyfriend, the so called 'Herald' and that your other teammate, Speedy is involved in another illicit sexual relationship, with a woman known as Cheshire."
Aqualad looked away, but said nothing.
"I see that I was right. You are desensitized to their ways. You probably don't even care that the changeling defiled her. To you that's normal now, isn't it."
"Rachel did not have sex with Beast Boy!" He thundered.
"Really? Why don't you ask her?" Tula asked him as she slapped a talisman into his palm. "Take this. If she lies, the stone will become hot."
Garth stared at the large pebble in his hand, which was covered with ancient runes.
"Ask her, Garth. You'll see that she's unworthy of you."
Aqualad angrily squeezed the stone in his hand. "Fine! I'll ask her. And you'll see just how wrong you are. You're going to eat your words. She is worthy of me!"
He turned and marched away from Tula in a huff. He stopped when he was halfway down the hall and turned to face his ex.
"She's more worthy than you ever were!"
Rachel remained hidden until both Tula and Garth departed, in opposite directions. She phased through the wall into the hallway. She was now in a full blown panic and was struggling to not hyperventilate. She, as all surface dwellers, knew next to nothing about Atlantean culture and mores. And the most important thing she just learned was that because of a mistake she made in a moment of passion she was now considered unclean and thus unfit to have any future with Aqualad.
"What am I going to do?" She whimpered to herself.
Rachel suddenly felt alone and frightened. What she needed now was a friend, someone she could turn to for advice and support. But who? Without thinking she reached for her utility belt and retrieved her Titans communicator. The clock on it said it was 6AM back at the Jump City Tower, Pacific Standard Time.
-( scene break )-
The master suite in the La Jolla house was the portrait of bliss and serenity. It was a pleasant night and a gentle ocean breeze blew in though the window, caressing their unclothed bodies. They were only covered by a single sheet, which was more than sufficient as their bodies kept each other warm. They were spooning, he resting behind her, with his arm draped over her, his bight green skin contrasting with her own achromatic dermis. He was sound asleep, snoring lightly, not that she could blame him. She had kept him very busy that night, as they mated three different times. He was indeed her green stallion.
She wasn't sure for whom the experience had been stranger. Gar had very briefly been Rachel's lover and this knowledge filled Raven's mind with a sense of dread. She wasn't afraid of sharing herself with him; rather she was afraid of "measuring up" to her clone. She was also worried about what her first orgasm might do to her. It turned out to be no worse than their previous make out sessions and the only side effect was her quadrascopic vision, which her mate didn't seem to mind at all.
After asking him for his hand in marriage she knew that taking the next step had serious implications, and beyond the obvious ones. There was a legal one, which only applied in their case because she was an Azarathian citizen. Unlike the laws of Earth, especially those of the United States, the laws of the mystical city of Azarath were quite simple. After becoming betrothed a couple had two choices: they could have a simple wedding ceremony like the one Raven officiated for Starfire and Nightwing. The other choice was very simple, but she debated whether or not to tell him about it.
When Raven removed her oversized T-shirt and stood naked in front of her fiancé she debated whether or not to tell him about the second option. While he stared at her mesmerizing beauty she saw a glimmer in his eyes. It was not lust, though he definitely did desire her, but it was something else … it was … love. She gave him one of her small smiles and took his hand.
"Gar, would you please stand up, and lose the boxers."
He eagerly complied and stood before her, holding her hand. She had not told him why she was asking him to stand, but he intuitively understood that it was something momentous, of great importance, something that would transcend the sexual intercourse that was imminent. As she held his hand she caressed his palm with her thumb and finally she spoke.
"Gar, I want you to know that I am ready to share everything with you. My bed, my body, my soul and my life, I'm ready to give all these to you. If I give them to you will you accept them and keep them forever?"
"Only if you accept the same from me." He replied.
Raven suddenly looked very solemn.
"Gar, if we make love tonight, under Azarathian law we will become husband and wife."
He looked startled. "Really?"
"Yes."
"So … we wouldn't have a ceremony?"
"We could have one later with our friends. You know, like how people with civil marriages sometimes have a church wedding later."
"Whoa … I see … actually, that's kind of cool." He smiled briefly; but in a sudden twist he looked mortified.
"Oh no, Rave, what about …"
She raised her other hand and gently shushed him but placing her fingertips on his lips.
"Don't say her name. But don't worry, you aren't married to her. First of all she would have had to ask you for your hand, and even if she did, she isn't a citizen of Azarath, so the law does not apply to her … Gar … I don't want to think about her tonight, do you understand?"
He nodded. "I understand … Raven, I'll do it. I'm ready"
"This is 'until death do us part', that is clear, right? We're really going to become spouses once you penetrate me."
"I understand." He replied. "We're getting hitched, sharing a yoke and all that stuff."
"Gar, I also need to ask you something … other than her, has there been anyone else? I know you dated a lot of girls until we started hanging out."
He shook his, head. "No, there's been no one else. I'm not a player, Raven, you know that."
"I'm sorry I asked, please forgive me. I promise to never ask about that again … of course you know that … well … it's pretty obvious that I'm a virgin." She chuckled. "Isn't that ironic? I'm half demon and I've never had sex."
He squeezed her hand. "I'm sorry Rave; I wish I was still a virgin … for you."
She wrapped her arms around him and kissed him. "Forget it. You're mine now, and that's all that matters."
They turned off the lights and climbed into the huge bed. As she said, Raven was still a virgin and it was new territory for her. Beast Boy, while no longer a virgin, was a bit reserved and shy himself. It seemed an odd way to say "I do", but then again in most cultures a marriage is not considered complete until it has been consummated. Their fears were unfounded and they shared an experience that was tender, loving, intimate, sensuous and exhilarating. So much so that they had two encore performances.
That had been a few hours earlier. For some reason Raven woke up, even thought it was still 6 AM. She rolled over so that they were face to face. She kissed him and was beginning to doze off when she heard a beeping sound coming from her Nightstand.
Deet Dee Dee Deet Dee Dee Deet.
Raven grabbed her Titan communicator and flipped it open. To her immense surprise she saw Rachel's tear drenched face.
"Rachel, what's the matter?" She whispered so as not to wake her brand new husband.
Rachel stifled back a sob. "Sister! I need your help!"
-( scene break )-
Another evil cliffhanger! Will Aqualad dump Rachel? Will Raven help Rachel? Should she help her? What do you think?
I was worried that you were losing interest in the story. But views and reviews have picked up the pace.
And now, with a round of fanfare, I give you the mail bag:
The Cretin
Great chap. Thought it was ironic but fitting that Rae did the proposing. Great job with Garthel...or is it Racharth?...either one don't exactly capture the same feel as BBRae or RobStar. In fact they sound like something you'd eat in a Medieval tavern in Conan's world...anyways I'm gettin off track. I like how you're playing the tension and hype for Deathstroke. The seriousness is clear and prevalent. Wilson's not a guy to take lightly. Loved the comparison between him and Red Star. Two different means to the same end. Have to wonder which one would come out on top.
Once again, kudos on the Alfred part. I guess he's a true gentleman. Hope to read more soon. Keep rockin.
I don't want to reveal too much about Deathstroke yet. Those who are familiar with him from the comics will probably see what they expect.
DeeThom
I've been absent! But it's ok. I like the idea of the different precautions taken by the League, but I want to see just how different Deathstroke is from Slade. Or, should I say, I'm eager to see how you differentiate between the two!
I will take some liberties; he won't be just like the Deathstroke in the comics.
gyhy
Alfred is amusing as always. I did feel a little sorry for Cyborg though, he had finally been able to get his hands on some good barbecue and then he gets hauled away before he's able to actually sit down and eat it.
Plus he lost out on a date with the busty Shawna!
krostovikraven1
And i thought Raven was the most serious case of multiple personality desorter, especially when she can actually interact with each one. thats why she fascinates me, and yet, having Slade under that concept, idk, not his style. and besides, as good of a mastermind he is and all the crime he's commited, why hasnt the Justice league aproached the issue . he's been as bad as the Joker.
Well, they thought Deathstroke was gone. Now that they know that he became Slade, they are doing everything they can to protect the Titans and are probably feeling guilty about not helping them fight Slade in the past.
Glacier
Oh my gif. Yet again, another smash hit, Force. I'm still waiting for the Terror Titans. I've noticed a few references to the various runs of Teen Titans in the comics, which I really like. (The '08 run is one of my favorites.) I'm quite happy to see nightwing make an appearance, since he's much more awesome rather than as Robin. Anyway, continue please, this could still go places quick, since Slade's come back as Deathstroke again. "Deathstroke, it's time for you to join the party!" Lex Luthor, opening to DC Universe Online
In Young Justice, Deathstroke makes a late appearance, taking Sportmaster's place in the Light. He has to be the most bad ass DC villain not to appear on the big screen. Heck, he's more bad ass than most of the villains who have appeared on the big screen.
Dezarulordoftwilight
I like the direction this story is taking, I always like the stories you write where the Titans ton on the defensively rather than the offensives and as far as I can tell, that's fling to happen. Awesome job force keep it up.
Yeah, it puts them into the underdog spot, which makes stories more interesting.
Rosalind du Coudray
Aww, Alfred is such a considerate man! And I love how you are following everyone...can't wait to see this Deathstroke person in action!
You know, I always thought that the Titans need someone like Alfred. Of course if they did have their own Alfred, BB's room would be clean.
Bluedog197
OMG i think i may explode from cuteness that was so sweet. now finally all the right couples are in place cant wait to see what happens next. by the way you have now won the cutest story in 2013 award for me bluedog197 there is only the best in the year to come... and i cant wait to see more
I did throw a wrench into the works for poor Rachel
Jason9000
Wow I was right? Sweet! Anyway I have a question I've been meaning to ask. Is the Justice League the one from the tv show that was broadcasted alongside the Titans or is this comic verse?
I like to think of them as the JLU from TV,
sonicboy678
Hey, Deathstroke could probably develop gills for himself and begin sniping underwater. There's a first time for everything. (On a mostly unrelated note, maybe Raven will eventually reach the point where kissing BB won't cause Rage to appear in any way, shape, or form.)
Hey, Raven digs the pointy ears, BB digs the 4 eyes! They are not and never will be a conventional couple.
Radmila Raznatov
Still too lazy to log in... it should say Raznatovic. That was great! And Oh my god! Why? Why must Batman spy on them?! That is SO stalker-like! How old are they? Like, 20 years younger than him. I think that's pedophilia... Oh well. And Raven and Beast Boy are gonna get married! AWESOME SAUCE! And as for the love scene, BB probably only had one word on his mind...YOLO! Sorry, couldn't resist. Awesome chapter, keep it up!
We all know that BB is the real stud in the show. As for Bats, it was just bad luck that he caught them canoodling in the hot tub.
Anoymous136
Both Batman and Deathstroke can take on the League with time to prep. So what if havin time to prepare, who would win? (My money's on Deathstroke, no matter how much I love Batman.)
If anyone is evenly matched with Batman, it's Deathstroke.
Red X
I can't believe than Robin allowed Bruce to keep spying on BB and Raven. Even for their protection, cameras in the outside would be enough. And will he keep watching 24 hours? And put a total amateur to protect them? He is totally underestimating the Titans.
Remember, Freddy has the Wisdom of Solomon. It's what made Cap effective when Billy was a still a kid.
Guest
Awesome chapter, simply awesome. Alfred continues to amuse me. I did enjoy the BBxRae fluff, thanks for that. I wonder how the rest of the Titans will react to the news that BB and Raven are engaged. I can picture Cyborg throwing them a big party. I feel a little sorry for Cyborg... he finally gets some good barbecue and Supes shows up to drag him away before he can properly enjoy it.
Wait until they find out they're married! Star will not be amused that there was no wedding.
titanfan45
Cyborg finally had his day! Man, things were coming together very nicely for him until Superman came along. No doubt Victor's friends were quite impressed. Slade's dual personalities make him even more dangerous than ever.
I've always struggled writing side stories for Cyborg. Will Shawna be his gal? Or will he hookup with Reggie's buck toothed cousin?
Hairul The Nightrage
Yeah, same goes for Outsiders, ever since DC launched the New 52 it all went downhill for the pricing, but lucky thing I've finally got my full set of TT TPB starting from A Kid's Game all the way til Prime Of Life and not to mention the TT/Outsiders Crossovers The Insiders and Death and Return Of Donna Troy.
Those are all pretty darn good comics.
glittergurl022
This is so awesome so addicted to reading it. ) :)lol
It's so addicting that you need a Doctor's prescription!