Here we go with chapter 19 and happy to get this new chapter up. I'm getting some ideas going for this story and glad to be remaking it. I'm also happy with how the Bleach Thousand Year War is going and how they're duplicating it from the manga. While making a few changes here and there, which is fine.
Also, for those who are new to Bleach, I recommend checking it out. It's a lot of fun, but if you have any questions, let me know. It was tricky to cross this over with the DC Universe, especially with how crazy powerful the heroes and villains are in this universe. But I've managed to work around this.
Now then, last time we saw Hikari and Isamu release their Zanpakutō. This is done when a Soul Reaper knows the name of their sword, which is basically an extension of their soul. So, if they know the name of their sword, then it'll change form. This is called Shikai or release form.
We saw Hikari and Isamu both defeat their enemies but saw James, Raven's half-brother & the representative of Greed, finish off the injured half-demon brother. Showing no mercy for those who fail in serving Trigon. We also saw some backup arriving for Robin and Starfire. Just in time too.
How will things go today as we get to the other two fights? Will the new ally be able to defeat Jack, the demon of Sloth? Will Isamu be able to defeat James? And who else is going to show up to lend a hand?
Read on to find out and thanks to my friend General Herbison for his help on my crossovers. I appreciate it so much and thanks to my friend who's helped me with my Power Rangers story too. I don't own anything from DC or Bleach, just my OCs. Enjoy the chapter everyone and let's begin.
Chapter XIX
Jump City
The police, firefighters, and paramedics have their work cut out for them. Not only did they receive multiple calls about fights breaking out, but people also suddenly felt ill, and attacks occurring at the park. But now they're told the Teen Titans have been seen fighting the ones behind these attacks. The ones causing all of this trouble for the citizens of their city.
This, however, divided the police force, firefighters, and the paramedics. Thinking about their numbers, they had to go to three different parts of the city. But thankfully, the citizens unaffected by what was going on, helped with the injured. Helping bring the city together, while their heroes work to defend them.
People trapped in cars are helped by breaking their doors open or by unlocking them through the open windows. While those on the ground unconscious are seen being carried to the sidewalk. Allowing the paramedics to check on all of them. Any in the park are being escorted out and away from the fighting.
Raven is seen helping the paramedics get the last of the civilians into the ambulance. She also helped in using her powers to help move the damaged vehicles out of the way. Allowing the police and firefighters to do their job. Making sure none of the vehicles are leaking fuel, while making sure the citizens are escorted out of the danger zone.
While this is going on, Raven looks up at the sky knowing that Isamu and her half-brother James are battling over the city. Isamu, after defeating her half-brother Jared, took the fight with James to the sky. To avoid anyone from getting hurt and to minimize the damage.
She knew this was a good move on Isamu's part. She could sense James was a lot stronger than Jared. Otherwise, he would have fled after seeing his brother get defeated by Isamu. But when he killed Jared without showing any signs of regret, she knew he wasn't going to back down.
She wishes she could do more to help, but she knew she'd just get in the way. Isamu, he has shown the power of a Soul Reaper and Raven is now convinced he can handle this on his own. She never thought there'd be anyone who could not only stand against her father's power but could defy him like this. If Isamu can defeat James and the rest of her brothers, then it's possible her future doesn't have to end with her father coming to this world.
"Is it really possible that everything I feared, doesn't have to end with me becoming the portal?" Raven asked herself before she saw someone approaching her.
"Excuse me," Raven turns to see the chief of police approaching the dark mage. "Sorry to interrupt you, but I wanted to ask you some questions."
"Of course," said Raven who had no trouble cooperating with the chief. "Is everyone okay, chief? Are they going to be all right?"
"Surprisingly? Yeah, they're all going to be okay," said the chief as he turns to the people being checked on. "A few scratches, bruises, and a few with some black eyes, but they'll all be okay."
Raven is glad to hear that. She didn't know how much damage her brothers had caused to these people, so once this was over, she'd need to go check on them.
"We're still going to keep them overnight for observation to ensure they'll be all right," said the chief as he looks around the damage that was caused. "It's a miracle no one got seriously hurt."
Raven couldn't agree more. "My team and I will do all we can to bring the ones behind this to justice."
"Speaking of which," said the chief as he remembers what else he wanted to ask. "I'm sorry to ask this, Ms. Raven, but do you mind explaining to me what happened? I mean, I figured it was the H.I.V.E. behind these attacks or one of the many crazy lunatics you all deal with, but…" the chief knew none of the criminals have ever done anything like this before. So, he was understandingly, a little nervous. "Are these some new super villains' you guys are dealing with?"
Raven got a little nervous when the chief asked about this. She didn't want to tell him the truth that the ones attacking them were her half-demon brothers. Sent by her demon father, who is trying to make her into his porta, to bring him to this realm, wipe out humanity, and take over the universe. She knew he wouldn't react as well as with her friends, much less be understanding.
"Well um w-we really don't know much about who these people are. But rest assured, chief. We'll stop them and bring them in to justice," said Raven as she tried to form a smile, but it came off looking very forced.
Thankfully, the chief was too tired to even think too much about it and not see past the lie. "I know you will. You kids…you Titans always find a way to save the day. No matter what. That's why this city supports you all so much, because they believe in you, and know you won't let us down."
Raven looked over to the citizens and knew the chief wasn't wrong. The people of this city do look up to them. They see them as heroes, know they'll do the right thing, and they'll protect them no matter what. But instead of making Raven feel good, it made her feel horrible.
She knew all of this was happening because of her. Her father sent Slade to deliver the message, to make her realize there's no way out of this, and she will fulfill her destiny. Her brothers are here to make sure she does what she's destined to do. All this suffering is happening because of her.
Yes, she does believe in her friends, in Hikari, and Isamu. She knows they will do all they can to stop Slade, her brothers, and her father. But…what if they can't? Earlier, she had hope that things wouldn't go like she had believed they would, but if Trigon has her brothers target the citizens and they do find a way to kill her friends…then all of this would have been for nothing.
"Still, I think the only thing we're still going to deal with is the insurance companies again," said the chief as he looked over to survey the damage caused and knew this is going to cost the city a pretty penny. "I can't imagine how it's looking at the park and downtown but can bet it's not looking good."
"We'll do the best we can to fix things around here," said Raven who knew they'll be able to help make up for the damage caused around here.
"I might appreciate that, but I don't know if you guys have enough funds to fix all of this," said the chief who knows the Titans have money to pay for all that they have, but he doubts its enough for all of this.
"I wouldn't worry about it," the chief and Raven turn to see someone walking towards them.
The man appears to be around his 60s, appears to be Asian, with long gray hair, gray eyes, tan skin, and a small beard. The man wore a trench coat and hat, while carrying a cane in his right gloved hand.
The chief looked confused, since it's not often he sees someone like this old man walking around dressed the way he is. "Um can I help you with something?"
"Of course, you can," said the elderly man as he hands the chief his business card. "My name is Ronin and I represent an insurance company called Imaginihs. We're an international company that was founded in Japan and has been helping provide plans for cities that have superheroes living in them or deal with your average supervillain activities."
"Is that so?" the chief asked as he looked down at the business card to see it's white colored with black coloring for the words and what looks like a symbol of a tree with a mountain in the background. "It's funny, I've never heard of your company before."
"That's because we try not to advertise ourselves too much, otherwise we'd be getting swamped by so many cities. We only pick select cities for our business," said Ronin as he hands the chief some papers that have graphs, numbers, and different city names on it. "We've been recently assisting cities like Metropolis and Gotham since we got here. With Wayne Enterprises being a huge supporter of ours."
"I see," said the chief as he looked over the paperwork. "Well, unfortunately our city has a tight budget, so we're not sure how we can afford all of this."
"Not to worry," said Ronin as he reassures the chief not to worry about payment. "Our company is paid by a group of wealthy donors, who only have the safety and security of the citizens at heart. In fact, I've spoken to your mayor about this, and he's already agreed to this. Provided you're in agreement too, sir."
The chief knew he should speak to some lawyers about this, but this man's paperwork seems legit. And he knows he can always speak to the mayor about this to confirm the man's story.
"I'll contact the mayor first before I make my decision," said the chief before handing the paperwork back to Ronin. "But if it all turns out well, then you'll have my support."
"Fantastic," said Ronin as he extended his hand and shook the chief's. "I'll be looking forward to working with you and your amazing city."
"Thank you," said the chief before hearing one of his men calling for him. "I have to go. Thank you for coming by and please stand clear from the fighting."
The chief soon took off, leaving Ronin alone with Raven, who had her eyes narrowed towards him, while her arms were crossed. Ronin took notice of this and simply smiled before putting the paperwork away.
"And you must be one of the famous heroes of this fine city," said Ronin before extending his hand to her. "You're Raven, right? I've heard so much about you."
Raven didn't say anything and instead kept going with her glare. Ronin noticed her look and began moving his hand back before rubbing his forehead with his index finger. "Everything okay, Ms. Raven?"
"You can cut the charade," said Raven as she finally spoke up. "I don't know who you really are, but I know you're not what you claim to be."
"Oh? And how do you know that?" Ronin asked feigning confusion.
"Because your spiritual pressure tells me the truth," Raven is thankful to have Isamu teach her how to sense spiritual energy.
It allows her to sense a Hollow when they arrive, or sense where her friends are at, and can sense how strong someone really is. And this old man, despite his best efforts in concealing it, Raven could sense the immense power surging through him.
Ronin didn't say anything after what Raven just said. Instead, he closed his arms and crossed his arms over his chest. "Hmm. I see. Well, it seems Isamu taught you well, Raven. Although it's to be expected from my student."
Raven's eyes widened when she heard what he said. "S-St-Student? Wait, you're Isamu and Hikari's teacher?"
"Well, one of them. The other, my granddaughter is off gathering intel on the other side of the world," said Ronin as he took his hat off and gives a proper introduction. "But it is a pleasure meeting you, Ms. Raven. I am Ronin Suzuki, former member of the 13 Court Guard Squad, one of its original founding members, and the one who sent young Isamu to protect you from Trigon."
Raven's eyes widened with what he said and couldn't believe it. This guy is not only Isamu and Hikari's mentor, but he's one of the Soul Reapers she heard so many stories about. One of the former members of the 13 Court Guard Squad and one of its founders. A group that even the Monks of Azarath knew, would be the biggest threat to Trigon the Terrible.
"I-I can't believe it," said Raven who is in shocked by all of this. "T-Thank you for coming here to help us, but I do need to ask. Why are you here? Are you here to help us against my father?"
Ronin turns to Raven, who was a little intimidated by the spiritual pressure she's feeling from him. It was more than Isamu and Hikari's spiritual pressure. It was nothing she's ever felt before. She stood her ground though and hopes his answer is yes.
"I am actually," said Ronin as he replied to Raven's question.
Raven sighed in relief when she heard his answer. However, Ronin continued. "But I'm here to help prepare you all for Trigon's followers and Trigon himself if he ever does get freed."
This didn't make Raven feel any better and left her confused. "What do you mean help us prepare?"
Ronin begins motioning to the police helping the injured into the ambulance. "Despite how strong many of your teammates are, it's not enough against the kind of power you're all up against. It also seems things have gotten more complicated with the including of your brothers. I never thought Trigon would have his sons around to help him."
Neither did Raven and she didn't even know she had any siblings till a few minutes ago. But they showed up and began causing trouble. Hurting innocent people and trying to kill her friends. Raven knew this was her fault and hated how many people are suffering because of it.
"And with innocent people getting hurt, it seems we can't rely on having my students do all the heavy lifting," said Ronin who knew this was going to be a problem. "So, it looks like the solution is clear."
"It is? What is it?" Raven asked wondering what they're going to do.
"Raven, finish helping the injured to where they need to go and return to the tower. Once this is done, I'll explain everything," said Ronin as he begins preparing to do his thing.
"W-Wait. What are you going to do? Are you going to ask more Soul Reapers to help us?" Raven asked hoping the answer is more reinforcements.
"Ha! Not even close," said Ronin as his hands begin to glow. "I'm just going to put you and your friends, through a little Soul Reaper boot camp training."
Meanwhile
Up in the sky, Isamu continues his battle with James as the two fights above the city. Isamu released his Zanpakutō after calling its name and swung his weapon. James blocks his attacks with his own sword. A long blade with a silver handle and demonic markings on it.
It was clear that unlike Jared, James was a more effective fighter. Isamu noticed Jared, due to being the representation of Wrath, was sloppy in his fighting style. He was a brute who relied on brute strength to help him in combat. Isamu though was more than familiar with fighting opponents like him.
It's why he was able to take him down with ease since he was easy to read. But James…he was different.
He was calm in his fight, he wasn't easily riled, and seems to be a very skilled swordfighter. He was able to use this to help him in his fight against Isamu. He was able to counter his attacks and block them with ease. He didn't fully use his demonic super strength against Isamu, showing he was holding back.
This was fine with Isamu since he too was holding back. It's been a while since he fought an opponent this strong before, so he was having a fun time. Yes, he knows he'll need to stop him soon to help prevent Trigon's return. And not upset Raven that he played around instead of ending this fight.
James and Isamu collided their blades once more as the sound of their blades pushing off one another could be heard. Small sparks came off from the force of their blades against the other, while their spiritual pressure was glowing off their blades. James begins pushing Isamu back as he tries to get him off balance. He soon begins summoning his demonic strength and managed to push Isamu back.
This knocked Isamu a little off balance as the half-demon saw his chance and attacks. Isamu saw the blade coming and tried to block it, but James swings his weapon down and knocks Isamu's blade down. James soon swings his weapon to slash at him, but Isamu suddenly vanished before the blade could hit him. Isamu soon appeared behind James, who saw his opponent suddenly behind him.
The two swing their blades before the sound of flesh being cut can be heard. The two back away as blood drips down from the tip of their blades.
"I can see why Slade had such trouble against you, Isamu Ishida," said James as he held his blade with one hand, while the other was folded behind his back. "Even with all those skills the human had, they're no match for someone as strong as you. I'm glad to be fighting for you.
"Is that right?" Isamu asked while he held his blade in his right hand, while the other hand is on his hip. "Well, we're being honest. I'm having fun fighting with you too. It's just a shame you're on the wrong side, since you would have made a good sparring partner."
"Heh," James moves his blade up, showing he got cut along the left side of his head. "And it's such a shame you decided to stand in our way. Maybe if you had played your cards right, then we would have been friends, while ruling this world."
"Heh," Isamu moves his blade up, showing he got cut along the right side of his forehead, above his right eye. "As if I'd ever end up like Slade and be someone's personal lapdog. And besides, I like this world. I'd hate for it to end at the hands of your father."
"Well, you'll have to get used to it, boy," said James as he moves his blade over his shoulder and begins taking out a handkerchief before he wipes away the blood. "Honestly, you should know there's no stopping what has been determined is going to happen, right?"
Isamu moves his own blade over his shoulder as well before he takes something from his kimono. "Yeah, that whole 'nothing can change your destiny' thing is all crap. I believe the future is not written in stone and it can be changed," said Isamu as he begins pouring some drops from a vial, he pulled over his cut before putting it away.
Before long, his cut was all healed up and he just needed to wipe away the blood from around his eye. "I'm living proof of that. I'll keep Raven safe and prevent Trigon from coming to this world. Even if I must end up killing you and the rest of his spawn."
James couldn't help but chuckle with what the Soul Reaper said, before wiping away the rest of the blood before his cut was soon healed thanks to his healing factor. "You really are such a fool, but then again, it's to be expected with you humans."
Isamu noticed the wound was gone, which didn't surprise him much. "Nice healing factor there. Though I suspect it only works on cuts and broken bones, right?"
"Unfortunately, yes," said James as he moved his right index finger up. "Despite how powerful we are, being Trigon's spawns, even we have our limitations. While we do have a healing factor, we can't heal from other types of injuries. Like regrowing missing limbs and organs for example."
"Is that right? So, if I cut your head off, you won't regrow it," said Isamu who knew he now wanted to try that.
"Yes, yes of course. However, I also noticed you Soul Reapers, despite the power you possess, you can't heal from your wounds," hence the reason why James saw Isamu use the vial to heal his cut. "It is surprising to see you use that medication to heal from your injuries, since I thought you, Soul Reapers would be durable enough to handle any cuts."
"Well, to be honest? I needed to stop the bleeding, otherwise I wouldn't be able to see well with one eye," said Isamu as he rubs the back of his head sheepishly. "Still, even if I didn't have the medication, I'd still fight on. We Soul Reapers are hard to kill."
Isamu knew as a Soul Reaper they are durable. They can take deep cuts and still fight on. Hell, Captain Kenpachi Zaraki had a hole in his gut and was able to still fight on. Some like even Captain Byakuya Kuchiki, who suffered a very serious injury during his fight with the Quincy scary goth guy, was able to survive and heal from his injuries.
"Is that so?" James knew that did make sense and would have likely done the same thing. "Well, looks I'll need to do a better job then, but I do wish to ask you something. What makes you think you'll be able to stop us? You know this isn't some fairy tale story, Isamu. You can't stop what is inevitable and what is destined to happen."
"I'm aware of the power your father has," said Isamu as he moves his weapon out and looks ready to continue fighting. "And yet, I won't let that stop me. I'll beat him, like I've done with all those I've fought before."
James soon begins twirling his sword as he lowers his head. "Trigon isn't like the mindless Hollows you and your sister have been fighting. Trigon is the end of all life. Whichever world he sets his sights on, it will be his, and he'll burn it all to the ground. And anyone who gets in his way, will all suffer a fate worse than death."
James moves his head up as his four eyes begin glowing brightly. "Even your precious Soul Society will burn when he arrives here. There is no one in this world or any world that can stop him. Raven knows this and knows even with all your power; you can't stop what cannot be prevented. It's fate."
Isamu didn't say anything. He simply stood there, listening to what James told him about destiny and his father. James had expected the boy to say something to contradict what he said. Maybe say some stupid cliché hero line that James has heard dozens of times.
But nothing.
He said nothing and simply stood there. This annoyed James who didn't like that the boy had nothing to say. Unless perhaps his words finally got to him. Perhaps this is the opening he's been waiting for to finish this fight.
"I know it hurts, Isamu. I know you don't believe the world will end, but it's all true," said James as he stops twirling his weapon. "And for giving me such a fun time. I'll end this now. Be glad you died a warrior's death. Even if it's in the hands of a demon monster spawn."
James begins tapping into his power and flies towards Isamu before bringing his weapon down at him. Isamu moves his sword up to block it as the force of their blades colliding caused a shockwave to be unleashed. This caused the area around them to shake and even caused the glass from the buildings to shatter. Thankfully, there were no civilians around so they wouldn't get harmed.
James had hope Isamu would block his attack, since the force from his attack would have likely shattered or dislocated his arm. Allowing him to push his weapon down and cut him down across his left shoulder. To his surprise, not only did Isamu block his attack, but it didn't come close to his shoulder. Isamu looks up at James, with his eyes glowing a little showing he drew some of his power that he was holding back on.
"First off, I know damn well who your father is and the kind of power he has. Yet despite this though, I'm still here fighting against his spawn and servant. Maybe it should tell you that even knowing all of this I'm not scared of him. I know what he is, and I don't care," said Isamu as he pushed James back, before swinging his weapon.
James blocks his attack, but to his surprise, it still knocks him back. James could sense the force behind the attack, causing him to realize this boy was holding back more than just a bit of his power.
"Secondly, fuck fate. I don't believe everything is set in stone and one makes their own future. I'll prove it to Raven and show her that she doesn't have to be afraid of a fucking prophecy that she was told as a kid. One that didn't include a Soul Reaper fighting by her side, stopping her father," Isamu's sword begins glowing as he swings his weapon again, pushing James across the sky as the half-demon tries to stop himself.
Shit! How is he this strong? James thought as he couldn't believe he was being forced back like this. Was he really holding back more power?
Once James managed to stop himself, he saw Isamu moving his sword back as he prepared to attack again. "And third, you're right about one thing. One of us is dying here, but it won't be me… Tsukishiro Ōkami no Kiba (Fang of the Lunar White Wolf)!" Isamu swings his sword and unleashes a blue fang blade blast towards his enemy before colliding with James, creating a loud bright explosion.
The explosion rocked the area around them as smoke began covering where his attack landed. Isamu stood there after launching his attack as he waited to see if he did any damage or not. The smoke begins clearing away as Isamu waits to see a shadowy figure appearing in the smoke. It was then James appeared surrounded by a red barrier around his body, showing he was safe.
"What the hell?" Isamu looks surprised to see his attack didn't leave a scratch on James. "I didn't know you guys could use magic, much less one as strong as this."
"Heh. I'm the only one in our little group who can do this and good thing too," said James who knew if he didn't have this barrier up, he would have been severely wounded. "It seems though I have been underestimating you, Soul Reaper. It looks like I'll need to take this a little more seriously."
James' sword begins glowing red and is set it on fire. "It looks like I'll have no choice, but to take this fight more seriously."
However, before he could, both James and Isamu felt something. Looking over the two sources of what they were sensing, they knew something has happened.
"Jim and now Jack too," said James as he can sense the death of his two brothers.
"Well, well, looks like Hikari killed one of them," said Isamu as he can sense his sister's spiritual pressure and felt the half-demon she fought is gone. "And it looks like Lady Yoruichi is here too. With her student too."
"Lady Yoruichi?" James asked looking confused but concerned.
The spiritual pressure he felt from the two new people were strong. But one of them had a higher spiritual pressure than the other three. It was then he felt a much stronger spiritual pressure down below. Down where his little sister is at.
It wasn't from Raven, but whoever she's with. The power he possesses made him feel a little uneasy. "Damn," he muttered under his voice. "If this is truly the power of a Soul Reaper, then this is going to be more complicated than I thought."
Isamu couldn't help but chuckle since he knew this meant she was ready to join them. "And she's gotten stronger too. I guess it's to be expected with how trained her."
Isamu is happy to sense who came to join them and knew she would eventually come back. He just wonders if she'll be ready to talk to the others. "Ah well, in any case, I'll need to finish this fight soon so I can rejoin the others."
Isamu soon turns towards James, who didn't seem heartbroken that his two brothers are dead. He did kill his brother earlier, so he shouldn't be surprised if he didn't feel anything for the loss of his two brothers.
"Well, since they took their fight seriously," Isamu begins moving his left hand to his face. "I should end this right now."
Before he could do anything, James begins putting his sword away and begins fixing his jacket. "I believe that's enough bloodshed for one day."
"W-What?" Isamu asked looking confused.
"You heard me. I'm done for the day," said James as he begins cracking his neck. "Now that I have an understanding of the power of a Soul Reaper, I know now what I need to do to stop you."
"Are you serious?!" Isamu asked looking upset with what he said. "You came to our city, attacked the people, and think I'll just let you go just like that? I don't think so."
"No, I don't expect you to let me go, but I think in this case you'll have no choice," said James before he fires a fireball blast towards a nearby bus full of people.
"Crap!" Isamu flies off to cut off the fireball that was moving rapidly towards the bus.
The bus driver and its occupants didn't even notice they were in danger. Isamu though knew they were and managed to appear over the bus. He then pulls his sword back and unleashes a more powerful Tsukishiro Ōkami no Kiba (Fang of the Lunar White Wolf) attack. The blast collides with the fireball and pushes it back towards James.
James was about to leave when he saw the attack rapidly flying back to him.
A large explosion erupted in the sky, causing the buildings to shake, including the vehicles below. The bus driver slams on the brake and looks out of the window. The people took out their phones and began recording what they had just seen. Wondering what just happened and unaware of how close they were to death.
Isamu knew though. Had he not blocked the attack, this could have gone badly. He looked up to see where his attack hit but didn't see any trace of James. Isamu scowled softly and knew he had gone away.
Isamu grips the handle of his sword before he calms himself down and puts his weapon away. "Next time, you bastard. Next time, you won't get away."
Unknown Place
"Where am I?" a young man spoke as he opened his eyes, finding himself in a dark place. One where he couldn't see where he was or remember how he got here. He just felt…cold. "Why do I feel like this?"
He tried to move but couldn't even lift a finger. Normally, he'd feel uneasy about being in a situation like this and try to figure out how to get out of this. But for some reason, he didn't feel like even trying. He didn't feel like he should try finding a solution and just wanted to stay where he was at.
Within the darkness that found himself in as he began closing his eyes. Willing to accept this and just let go.
"Dick, it's time to wake up, sweetie," spoke a voice, a familiar female voice that echoed all around the room.
"You heard your mother," spoke another familiar voice, but this one was of a man.
Suddenly a light begins to appear in the darkness. It began hitting the young man's face as he groaned a little from how bright it was. He begins opening his eyes. Seeing two shadowy figures appear in front of him, within the bright light that now illuminated the darkness.
"Well? Are you just going to lay there?" the older man asked.
The young man begins opening his eyes completely and looks in shocked as he recognized the two people before them. One was an older looking man with black hair, blue eyes, fair skin, and is seeing wearing a blue jumpsuit. The other is an older looking woman with blond hair, blue eyes, fair skin, and wearing a red colored jumpsuit. The young man begins getting to his feet and stood there in shocked as he removes the mask covering his eyes.
"M-Mom? D-Da-ad?" The young masked while as tears form around his eyes and he began sputtering in his response. "I-It c-a-an't be. Are you re-ally here?"
The female figure, revealed to be the young man's mother walks over and kneels in front of her son, and embraced him in a hug.
"It's us, sweetie. It's really us," said the mother as she held her son close.
The young man nearly broke down in tears as his arms shakily move up and wrap around the woman. Hugging her back as he closed his eyes and moved his head towards her.
"It's okay, sweetie. We're here," said the mother as she had some tears flowing down her eyes as well.
The father walks over and joins in the hug, happily embracing his family. "We're so happy to see you again, son. I just wish it was under better circumstances."
This caused the young man's eyes to open and looked confused before moving back from the hug. "What do you mean by better circumstances?"
It was then that he remembered what happened. He remembered who he is and how he ended up here.
He looks down and sees his red and green uniform with his R symbol on the left side of his chest. But he also saw a deep wound on his chest, showing where he got attacked by…by Raven's brother, Jack.
"I remember. I remember being with Starfire, fighting Jack, and then…. this," Robin moves his right gloved hand to his injury.
It didn't hurt, but he could tell how deep the wound was and how much blood he's likely lost. It was then he realized what happened and why his parents were here. His parents, John, and Mary, 'The Flying Graysons'. They were all famous trapeze artists, who did amazing stunts high above the ground, and were also famous for working without a net.
It was a risky stunt, but they were so good at what they did that they didn't have a lot to worry about. That was until one night, crime boss Tony Zucco sabotaged their stunt, resulting in the death of Dick's parents during their performance. With Dick being there to watch it all as his parents fell to their deaths and he couldn't do anything to stop it. Yes, Tony was later arrested for these crimes, but it didn't change the fact his parents are dead.
"So, I'm dead then," said Dick as he couldn't believe this really happened and at a young age too. "I-I can't believe it."
Mary turns to her husband, who gives her a small nod to her. Mary walked to her son and placed her hand on his shoulder.
"You did die, but you're not gone just yet," said Mary as she reveals it's not over yet for his son.
Dick looks up at his mom, confused by what she said. "W-What are you talking about. Raven's brother killed me. My wound…" it was then he looks down and sees his wound is slowly healing. "My wound is healing?"
John begins chuckling as he places his hands on his hips. "You have some good friends in high places, Richard. They're currently healing you from your wound and in a minute, you'll be back to the living."
"You have a second chance to live, Richard," said Mary as she called her son by his name. "You'll have a chance to be with your friends again and keep fighting the good fight."
Dick looks up to his parents confused by what they mean. "H-How? I thought I was dead. Isn't that why you're both here?"
"Yes, you did, but as your Soul Reaper friends have someone healing you, son," said John as he explains what's going on. "We just came to tell you, how proud we are of you, son."
Dick's eyes widened a little as his mother kneels in front of him and begins hugging him. "We're so proud of you, son. Not just because of all the good you've done, but also for the man you've become."
John joins in the hug as both parents hold their son close. "Never forget how much we love you, son. We'll always be there for you, even in death. We'll be here for you. And keep moving forward."
Dick can feel himself tearing up again and begins to cry as he embraces his parents in the hug. He had dreamed of this moment for so long. He has dreamed of feeling the soft warm embrace of his parents and wanting them in his life again. He missed this so much and didn't want to go.
He closed his eyes and wished he could stay with his parents when he heard a voice.
"Robin? Robin, come back to us, please," it was then he recognized the voice. It was Starfire. "Robin, please, return to us. We need you."
"It sounds like your girlfriend needs you," said John as he chuckles softly and breaks the hug. "Don't keep her waiting now and remember to treat her well."
"And don't wait too long to tell her how you feel," said Mary as she gives her son a kiss on the forehead. "She's a fine and good woman. You're lucky to have her. And when the time comes, tell her: Thank you for keeping our son safe and making him happy."
"G-Girlfriend? Mom, dad, she's not my…" before Dick knew it he suddenly felt a force pulling him away from his parents, who waved goodbye to him and he could hear their final words to him before he blacked out.
"We love you, our sweet little Robin."
Living World
Robin sits up and lets out a loud gasp as he felt himself waking up from wherever he was at. Before he had a chance to say anything, he felt the strong bone-crushing embrace of his alien friend, Starfire.
"Robin! I'm so glad you're okay," said Starfire as she hugged Robin ever so tightly, while tears flowed down from her eyes and was crying.
"Easy there, Starfire," spoke an older dark-skinned woman as she tries to stop Starfire. "If you don't stop hugging her, the wounds will reopen, and he'll bleed out."
"S-Sor-ry," said Starfire as she lets Robin go from his hug, while holding him, and trying to stop crying. "I-I w-as j-jus-t s-s-sooooo worried!" Once again, a waterfall of tears flowed down as she cried.
Robin looks confused by what the woman said before looking at where he got his injury, finding the hole is gone. In fact, he felt completely fine. Sore from Starfire's hug, but otherwise, all right. He then begins remembering what happened while he was unconscious.
Was all that real? Did he really meet his parents? Did he really talk to them? Did he really hug them?
He almost felt himself tear up when he remembered how their conversation went and the last words, they told him before he woke up. Was everything he saw real?
Robin soon turns his attention to the woman, not recognizing her and wonders who she is.
"W-Who are you?" It was then Robin realized something important. "Wait! Where's Jack! Did you guys stop him?" He tried to stand up, but Starfire kept him sitting.
"Robin, wait!" said Starfire as she tries to keep Robin from moving. "You're still not back at full strength. You must rest first. Do not be concerned about Jack, Ms. Yoruichi's friend is taking care of it."
"Friend? And wait, Yoruichi?" Robin asked as he looks over to the older woman. "Are you a Soul Reaper?" He remembers his parents mentioning his Soul Reaper friends, Isamu and Hikari having friends in high places.
Yoruichi simply chuckled softly and crossed her arms. "I am. I'm Yoruichi Shihōin, former member of the 13 Court Guard Squad and a former mentor of your little friends."
"You are?" Robin asked looking shocked that he got a chance to meet a Soul Reaper other than Isamu and Hikari.
Starfire nods in response. "Ms. Yoruichi gave me some medication to help you heal from your wounds. It's a good thing too. Had she not done so, you would have…" she didn't want to say it, because she feared it almost came true.
Robin though knew what she was going to say and suspects his dream was indeed very real. "I died, didn't I?"
Starfire gasps a little but didn't say anything. Yoruichi however, didn't have any problem telling him the truth. "For one minute, you did. But thankfully the medicine works quickly to help heal your injuries. If we didn't have this, then you certainly would have been died."
He's extremely lucky that she arrived with the medication. Even if Kisuke guaranteed it would have saved the young hero even past the three minutes, she didn't want to take the risk. Yes, she trusts Kisuke, but it did make her feel uneasy when he explained he hadn't tested it yet. Thankfully it worked out in the end.
"I see," said Robin as he narrowed his eyes and knew that he was extremely lucky he was alive. He remembers the words his parents told him and knew what he needed to do. "Well, it's good that it worked then, because I'm not done living yet."
Robin knew if he's still needed here, then he'll be damned if he lets his end be here before he can help save the world from Trigon and keep his friends safe, all of them.
"I still got work to do and I'm going to make damn sure I don't die again," said Robin as he felt his confidence coming back to him.
Starfire begins sniffling as she wipes the tears away. She's happy to see Robin is still with them and despite what happened, isn't going to keep him from moving forward. Yoruichi began to smile a little when she saw the confidence flowing from Robin, but something else too. It seems his brush with death has increased his spiritual pressure more than she had expected.
If this increase is enough for what Hanako wants her to do, then it just might work.
"You didn't answer my question," said Robin as he tried to get to his feet, slowly.
Starfire saw this and decided to help him to his feet. Once she got him up, he held on to her shoulder before he was able to balance himself out, he spoke up again.
"Where's Jack?" Robin asked.
Suddenly, the three of them could hear a loud booming sound echoing above them and across the city. Robin looked confused about what the noise was when he began seeing something. Narrowing his eyes, he could see what looked like two figures fighting each other. He recognized one of them to be Jack, but the other he didn't recognize.
"Up there, fighting my student," said Yoruichi as she replied to Robin's question from earlier. "Not bad, huh? And to think she's gotten this strong in a year."
"Who is she?" Robin asked as he had expected it to be Hikari or Isamu to be fighting Jack.
"Someone familiar with you two. Someone who wishes to remain anonymous. At least for now." said Yoruichi as she decides not to go into further details.
"Why not? If it is someone we know, why wouldn't they want to tell us?" Starfire asked wondering why she wouldn't tell them.
"Trust me. She has her reasons and I'm respecting it," said Yoruichi as her eyes turn to the side and smiled softly. "Well, well. It looks like Hikari has taken care of one of the demon boys," he eyes turn back to the other side and sighed. "Isamu's opponent seems to be stronger than I had expected."
"If he's in trouble, then will you assist him?" Starfire asked wondering if she'll help Isamu in his fight against Trigon's son.
"Hmm…no," Yoruichi replied as she closed her eyes.
"N-No? What do you mean, no?" Starfire asked wondering why she won't help Isamu. "If he's struggling, then you should help him. Is that not your job?"
"No, its not," said Yoruichi replied bluntly. "Isamu has been trained by two of the strongest Soul Reapers I know. If he's struggling, then he'll need to stop holding back and give it his all. Just like he did against one of the two brothers I sensed earlier."
Yoruichi opened her eyes and turned to where she sensed Hikari's fight. "Hikari knew better than to hold back and took out the brother your two other friends were fighting. They're all safe by the way, but it seems like they'll need some rest after this."
"We should still go get them," said Robin who wanted to pick up his friends and get them the medical attention they needed.
"You two go on ahead and head back to the tower. I'll have Hikari bring your friends back as well," said Yoruichi who knew she still has some work to get done before this night is over.
"And what if you're student? And Isamu? Will you at least go check on him?" Starfire asked, before feeling Robin's hand resting on hers.
"Star, it's okay," said Robin who didn't seem as worried as Star is about their friend. "Isamu's skill is far beyond anything we can ever hope to achieve. If Ms. Yoruichi believes he'll be okay, then we should do the same too."
"He's right," said Yoruichi as she turns her back to the two heroes and walks to the middle of the street, while watching the fight above them. "As strong as you two are, this is beyond your power. You need to trust in your friends, who have been fighting beings like these for years, so that they can handle this. Have faith in them and they'll get the job done."
Starfire did indeed have faith in her friends but didn't like the idea of standing on the sideline without being there to cheer them on. But right now? Robin is hurt and so are her friends. She needs to help Robin get some rest and make sure the others are cared for too. She didn't want to leave before thanking this mysterious girl, but she knew she had to.
"Please, make sure Isamu and Raven come home soon," said Starfire before she picks Robin up bridal style, causing the Boy Wonder to blush a little. "Thank you again for your help and please thank your student for saving us!"
Starfire soon flies off with Robin and heads back towards the tower. While Yoruichi simply smiles as she keeps watching the fight.
"I'll be sure to do that," said Yoruichi as she hears the fighting escalating. "She better finish this soon, before the barrier gives out."
Meanwhile, up in the sky, the demon representing the sin of sloth, Jack charges at his opponent trying to kill her. Slashing his sharp claws towards the cloaked girl who avoids getting hit. Despite how fast Jack is, the cloaked girl managed to dodge him with ease. Something that's surprising the half-demon as he goes for a kick to the side of the head.
The cloaked girl managed to move the fight up here in the sky. To avoid any civilians from getting harmed and anymore properties from being damaged.
The cloaked girl managed to avoid another one of his attempted attacks, before grabbing hold of his right leg. She then begins spinning him around before tossing him across the sky. Jack managed to stop himself from going further up in the sky and begins floating over the city. The cloaked girl suddenly appears in front of him and swings her sword. Jack managed to avoid getting slashed, but just barely avoided her blade.
Jack backs away but soon thrusts his right arm forward to stab her, but she blocks his attack with her sword. Jack had expected his claws to pierce through the blade, but it didn't work. This surprised him as he tried to attack him again with the blade. She blocks his attack with ease and again, her blade didn't get cut through.
Jack swings his left leg up to kick her blade away and begins going to slash her. But she suddenly disappeared from him, surprising the half-demon. Before she suddenly appeared behind him. She swings her sword and before he has time to react, slashing across his left shoulder.
Jack is sent flying from the force of the attack, while gripping his injured shoulder. Blood coming out of it as he groans and hisses from the pain. Jack looks down at his hand to see how much blood was spilling out. He looks towards his opponent and scowls a little.
"What a fucking pain in the ass," said Jack as he spoke softly without much anger in his tone, despite what happened. "James didn't tell us these Soul Reapers would be this strong. I guess I should begin taking this more seriously."
Jack sighed once more before his wound was soon healed up. "I really hate doing this, but I also don't want to go back and tell dad I failed."
Jack knew his father wouldn't take kindly to failure. He's seen what happens when someone who serves him fails at their job.
It was then both Jack and the cloaked girl felt something before turning to the direction of what they felt. The cloaked girl could feel Hikari and Isamu's spiritual pressure increasing. With at least two of the half-demon boys being killed. One was by Hikari, the other by the third half-demon brother.
Jack felt this and knew this wasn't good. It means Jared and Jim are both dead. Showing that these Soul Reapers are a lot stronger than they were led to believe. Now Jack knew he really couldn't fail, otherwise, he'd be next.
"Fuck it. I guess I'm doing this then," said Jack as he begins lazily cracking his knuckles, slowly.
The cloaked girl didn't say anything and simply stood there, with her sword in hand. She didn't need to say anything. If her two allies stopped holding back, then so should she. So, she'll need to finish this soon.
Jack noticed during the fight the girl didn't say anything. Not a single word since they fought away from her little friends. It was new to him, but it was fine. It's not like he wanted it to go like he figured it would.
It also means he wouldn't have to deal with the usual monologues he'd get from these heroes. "Once I finish you off, I'll finish what I started. Killing bird boy and the redhead."
The girl's grip on her sword tightened as she didn't seem to like the threat he made towards Robin and Starfire, causing her to move her blade up. Jack took notice of this and seems to have hit a nerve.
"So, they are your friends," said Jack who remembers her saying how she isn't their friend when she got here. "Just so you know, I'm quite slow in killing my victims. So, I'll take my time in killing them, while I make you watch."
The cloaked girl moves her sword forward in front of her, before she begins speaking her sword's name. "Burn and slash, Kokuyōseki no honō (Flames of Obsidian)," the sword soon begins to transform with the blade turning black and has a curve around the tip. While having a gold hilt, handle, and green gem on the bottom.
Jack sees the sword transform and has to admit, this was different. "This must be what James warned us about."
James mentioned to them how these Soul Reapers can transform their swords. They all have their own names and once they call on them, then their swords can change forms. This'll increase the ability of a Soul Reaper and make them more dangerous. Jack, however, didn't see it.
"Not really that impressive. I mean, I thought it would look like it would have a chance against me," said Jack as his eyes begin glowing red and begins to transform. His skin turning dark pale, horns growing on the side of his head, and a red aura surrounding his body. "Fine with me. It just means I'll be able to end this quickly and, in this form, my power has increased."
In fact, Jack is confident with the number of victims he's absorbed, he'll be strong enough to finish the Soul Reaper off. He soon cracks his neck as he stares at his foe and looks ready to finish her off.
"Time for you to die, little Soul Reaper! Time for you to die at the hands of a son of Tri-" suddenly the cloaked girl appears behind him, with her sword letting out steam from its burning blade. Showing what looks like fresh blood, being vaporized by the heat of the blade.
Jack stood there, twitching a little, while his eyes were wide open. Suddenly steam begins appearing around his neck as a red burning line appeared. Going around his neck as Jack begins letting out a small gurgling sound. The cloaked girl begins moving her sword to the side before moving it back in its sheath.
The moment the sword was in, Jack's head fell off from his body. Both his head and body begin falling to the ground before they begin disintegrating. Turning to ashes before they can hit the ground. The cloaked girl looks down to see the wind blowing away the ashes, before she begins pulling her hood back, revealing her appearance.
She has long blond hair, fair skin, and green eyes. She moves her hair back when the wind blew by as she lets out a small sigh as she looks over the city.
"So, how did it feel?" Yoruichi appeared across from the girl, with her arms crossed, and a happy smile. "I'm sure it felt good to finally show off what you can do, right?"
"I guess," said the girl as she didn't seem excited with what she did.
"Really? You didn't feel happy with defeating your first strong opponent?" Yoruichi asked.
"He was strong, but nothing I couldn't handle," the girl looks down at her sword and once again let out a small sigh. "And besides, it's not like I took any satisfaction for what I did. I was given a task and I did it. Nothing more."
Yoruichi's smile was soon gone, and her expression turned to one of annoyance. She begins groaning softly as she rubs the back of her head. "Seriously? Why do you have to be so much like Soi-Fon? Don't be so serious. Lighten up a little bit, especially knowing you saved your friends."
It was at the mention of the others that caused the girl's expression to turn one of concern. "Is everyone okay? Are Raven, Cyborg, Robin, and Beast Boy all okay?"
"There we go. That's what I wanted to see," said Yoruichi who's glad to have gotten a reaction. "No emotionless super serious girl. Just a regular teenage girl, concerned for her friends, and making sure they're okay."
"Will just answer the question please," said the girl who wasn't in the mood to be played with.
Yoruichi laughs for a moment, before she stops and smiles once again. "They're all safe," this caused the girl to let out a sigh of relief for what she was told. "Hikari saved Beast Boy and Cyborg from that Jim guy. The medication worked well on Robin, so he's safe. As for Raven…"
Yoruichi could sense the other demon appears to be running away, so this fight is over, for now. "She's safe too. It seems that other demon fled the fight. But he'll be back. It's likely he only fought Isamu to test our strength."
The girl realized where this is going and crossed her arms. "So, it means this isn't over."
"Nope, not even close," said Yoruichi as she begins stretching her arms and lets out a loud groan. "That's fine though. It just means it'll give us a chance to whip those friends of yours into shape before the next fight. And with what happened, there's now a very good chance their spiritual pressure has increased to where they need to be for my training."
"About that," said the girl as she begins bringing up something important. "While I know the plan is to train them and I do think they need it…I don't know if…" she begins looking away looking worried and begins rubbing her arms. "I don't know if I'm ready to see them, yet."
Yoruichi didn't seem surprised by what she said. In all honesty? She expected it. And couldn't blame her for how she felt.
"I understand," said Yoruichi who knew with what happened, she was likely not ready to confront them. "Listen, I'm not going to force you to see them. You can stay hidden in the shadows if you want, but trust me when I say this, eventually you'll have to face your past."
The girl knew that was true. Eventually, her path with the others will come and this time she won't be able to hide in this outfit of hers. But she also knows she needs time. Time before she can muster up the courage to speak to them.
"Thank you, Lady Yoruichi," said the girl as she looks over to the Titan's Tower and can sense the others are heading back there. "Go on ahead. I'll wait for you guys on the rooftop once you finish talking to the others."
"Fair enough," said Yoruichi as she took out her phone and messages Kisuke. "I'm sure Ronin is already there. I'll let you know once we finish," as she was about to leave, she turns to the girl. "And try to figure out what to say to them, Terra."
The girl begins turning her head to the left side, without fully facing Yoruichi. "Terra is dead. She died saving this city from her failures and mistakes. "I'm Tara. Tara Markov."
Well, well, well, well! Look who's back! Yep, it's Tara aka Terra. She's back from being a stone statue.
How did that happen? How did she get freed without the others knowing about it? Will it be explained a lot better than the show, who never explained how Terra came back? And will we find out how she became a Soul Reaper?
Also, looks like James got away, but not before he lost three of his brothers. This just leaves James himself and two more brothers. Will they be enough against the now three Soul Reapers? Will they be enough against the mentors of the Soul Reapers themselves?
Also, yeah, I decided to have Robin see his parents again after dying. I thought about just having him wake up, but then I thought, nah. I should have him see his folks before he returns to the living. And have some bit of closure with them.
How will things go now that the others got a taste of what to expected from Raven's half-siblings? Will their allies be enough to stop them? Will Slade return to make his move too? And will they be able to stop Trigon before he arrives?
Tune in next time to find out. Also, thanks to those who left reviews from the last chapter and have subscribed to the story. I appreciate it and I will work to continue where I left off with this story. And will have it go the way I now want it to go.
Please leave some reviews and let me know what you all thought. Just nothing negative please. Also, thanks to my friends for their help and support. I appreciate it and see you all next time, bye.