The New Teen Titans.
Goodbyes are inevitable, but don't always last forever. With the gradual leave of the Titans, the unavoidable change was clear. But the tower wasn't empty for long as a new group of sidekicks are added to the team. With new teenagers in the tower, hormones run wild as unexpected relationships develop, while others are reconciled. RobStar BBRae ConCas Artist: Jen Bartel.
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Chapter One: New Titans.
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Richard skillfully maneuvered his sleek black vehicle through the bustling streets of Jump City, his hands gripping the steering wheel with a mix of anticipation and excitement, each turn bringing him closer to their destination. However, sitting uneasily in the passenger seat, the reluctant thirteen-year-old, Damian mirrored none of his guardian's enthusiasm.
"You know, I could have driven myself." Damian grumbled bitterly, his arms crossing tightly against his chest, exuding an air of defiance.
Richard's lips curled into a playful smirk, his eyes briefly flickering to Damian before returning to the road. "Considering the little stunt you pulled, you should count yourself lucky to even be allowed near one of my vehicles." He retorted, his voice laced with a mix of amusement and stern authority.
Unimpressed, Damian's short temper flared, his frustration seeping into his words. "So, what? This is my punishment? Being forced to team up with a bunch of children?" He spat, his disdain for the situation evident.
Richard's expression softened, and he cast a brief glance at the young ward. "This isn't punishment, Damian. Being part of a team will be good for you. And they aren't children, they're teenagers." He clarified, hoping to appease Damian's growing resentment.
"Even worse." Damian grumbled, slumping further in his seat, his displeasure palpable.
The car continued its journey, each passing street filling the tense silence between them. As they turned a corner, their eyes were met with a sight that brought relief to Richard's heart - Titans Tower, standing tall and proud against the skyline.
Richard suppressed his eagerness, well aware of Damian's sharp observations. He skillfully parked the vehicle in the Tower's driveway, allowing a satisfied sigh to escape his lips. "Damian, welcome to Titans Tower." He declared, his voice carrying a hint of pride.
Damian's gaze lifted, following Richard's gesture to the towering structure adorned with a reflective T emblem. An arched eyebrow raised in critique. "Not much for subtlety, I see." He commented dryly, his attention shifting to the imposing figure of the tall redhead waiting for them at the front door.
Richard couldn't help but chuckle softly, appreciating Damian's sharp wit. He opened the car door, signaling for Damian to follow suit. "Come on, Damian. Let's go meet the team." He said, stepping out of the vehicle with a confident stride.
Richard's face lit up with an unabashed beam as his eyes fell upon the radiant alien beauty that waited for him. His excitement bubbled beneath the surface, threatening to spill over. With controlled restraint, he composed himself, morphing his elation into a more composed demeanor as he stepped out of the vehicle. The smile never wavered on his face, growing only more pronounced as he closed the distance between them.
"Starfire." He addressed her with a touch of professionalism, veiling the sheer delight he felt at their reunion. "It's been a while."
A reciprocating smile graced Kori's lips, her eyes twinkling with warmth and fondness. "Nightwing." She greeted, her voice infused with affection. "Indeed, it has been quite some time."
Richard's heart skipped a beat at the sight of her, aching to embrace her tightly, to revel in her presence, and share with her the depths of his emotions. However, a flicker of awareness pricked at him as Damian's skeptical gaze lingered upon them, witnessing the undeniable tension that lingered in the air. With a resolute sense of duty, Richard reined in his desires, reminding himself to maintain professionalism in Damian's presence.
"Starfire, this is Damian, the new Robin." Richard introduced, his voice holding a note of formality as he gestured towards the young boy standing beside him.
Kori's smile widened as she turned her attention to Damian, extending a warm welcome. "Welcome, Damien. If you would come inside, I would be delighted to give you a quick tour of the Tower." She offered, her genuine warmth reaching out.
"Very well." He replied with clear indifference, his enthusiasm noticeably absent, unable to summon any excitement.
Richard observed the exchange between Kori and Damian, silently hoping that their interactions would help thaw Damian's icy disposition. He understood the challenges that lay ahead in integrating Damian into the team, but he believed in the transformative power of the Titans. With a steadfast resolve, Richard followed closely behind them, ready to navigate the delicate dynamics and guide his young acquaintance towards a brighter path within the walls of Titans Tower.
Richard trailed behind Kori, his gaze fixed on her as she gracefully led the way into the Tower. His smile remained persistent, a testament to his unwavering delight in her presence. He observed with unabashed admiration as she effortlessly showcased her vibrant and effervescent personality, determined to make Damian feel welcome, despite his apparent disinterest in the tour.
The echoes of Kori's cheerful voice reverberated through the corridors as she guided Damian and Richard through the Tower. Each step, she pointed out various common areas, offering glimpses into the everyday lives of the Titans.
First, they entered the inviting kitchen, where the aromas of freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries filled the air, evoking a sense of warmth and camaraderie. Kori animatedly shared anecdotes about late-night baking sessions and impromptu team gatherings around the long table.
Next, they ventured into the spacious living room, adorned with cozy couches and shelves lined with books and mementos. Kori's eyes sparkled with fondness as she recounted countless movie nights and game tournaments that had unfolded in that very room. Her enthusiasm radiated, refusing to be dimmed by Damian's apparent lack of engagement.
As they reached the training room, Richard marveled at the sight before him. The room hummed with activity, alive with the presence of the new teammates.
In the training room, bathed in the glow of artificial lighting, Conner and Cassie engaged in a captivating display of martial prowess. The scent of determination hung in the air as they circled each other, their eyes locked in an unwavering gaze, each awaiting the other's move.
Cassie, the most recent addition to the Titans, exuded a youthful confidence that belied her limited time with the team.
"Are you ready?" Conner asked cautiously, eyeing her up and down. "I don't want to hurt you."
A subtle smirk played on Cassie's lips. "You don't need to worry about that." She responded to Conner's concern with a playful chuckle. Her words were laced with an air of assurance, leaving no doubt in her abilities.
Conner's caution, however, remained unyielding. He launched a carefully measured punch, mindful of the force he exerted, yet Cassie effortlessly evaded his strike with swift precision, seizing the opportunity to seize his arm and fling him across the mat. Wide-eyed and momentarily stunned, Conner found himself on the receiving end of Cassie's display of strength.
"Try not to underestimate me, Superboy." She said as she approached him with a self-satisfied expression, her confidence radiating from every pore. Her outstretched hand served as an unspoken gesture of camaraderie, inviting him to rise and continue their friendly duel.
Conner, struck by her impressive skills, accepted her offer with a smile. "I will take note of that." He said with a grin of recognition.
They resumed their starting positions, a renewed determination etched on their faces. Conner, shaken but undeterred, launched himself forward, utilizing his superhuman speed to his advantage. However, Cassie proved to be no mere novice, matching his intensity and expertly evading his onslaught with an agile leap, leaving Conner momentarily disoriented. Cassie gracefully lowered herself, sweeping her legs toward his feet with precision, sending him tumbling to the mat once again.
In the blink of an eye, Bart, with his lightning-fast speed, appeared beside Conner. "How's that super ego of yours?" He asked, his mischievous nature evident in his teasing question. The playful banter served as a lighthearted reminder that even the most formidable members of the team could experience moments of humbling defeat.
Conner narrowed his eyes before diverting his gaze towards the weary figure of a green cheetah panting heavily, struggling to keep pace with the lightning-fast speedster. A grin tugged at Conner's lips as he observed the comical scene. "Shouldn't you be racing the poor cheetah?" Conner quipped, his tone laced with amusement.
Bart turned back to Garfield. "I wouldn't exactly call it a fair race." He commented, his words dripping with light-hearted sarcasm.
Just as the banter between the two teammates reached its peak, Kori's melodious voice cut through the room, commanding the attention of the entire team. Her words rang out with a sense of authority and grace, instantly silencing the room. The atmosphere shifted, and all eyes turned toward the doorway where Kori stood, her regal presence demanding respect and attentiveness.
"I would like to introduce to you the newest member of the team, Damian, also known as Robin," Kori announced, her voice carrying a note of pride as she gestured towards the grumpy sidekick standing beside her. Each member of the team shifted their focus to the brooding newcomer, their expressions a mix of curiosity and apprehension.
Damian cast a judgmental stare upon each member, his piercing gaze filled with skepticism and dismissiveness. "So, we have the Krypton Clone, Wonder Wanna-be, Flash into the past, and Green Goblin. Great team you have here, Orange Barbie Doll." Damian uttered with biting disdain, his words dripping with condescension.
"Watch it!" Garfield shot back, his voice laced with irritation.
"You're one to talk, Baby Bats!" Cassie added, never one to back down from a challenge.
"Already making friends." Richard remarked with a touch of dry humor, trying to diffuse the tension.
Kori, observing the escalating hostility, stepped forward, positioning herself between the team members and Damian. Her commanding presence seemed to cast a calming influence on the room. She raised her hand, signaling for silence. "Okay, that is enough." She said sternly, her tone brooking no further argument. "I want everyone to go to their rooms and take a break. Damian, I will escort you to your-"
"I think I can manage." Damian interrupted, his words laced with defiance as he abruptly left the room, his swift departure serving as a clear indication of his independent nature.
The room fell into a brief moment of silence, the tension dissipating slightly in Damian's wake. Kori surveyed her team, a mixture of concern and determination etched on her face. She knew that integrating Damian into the team would be a challenge, but she was determined to foster unity and forge bonds of trust among her Titans.
Kori watched as each of her team members left the training room, their departure leaving a lingering sense of unease in the air. She let out a heavy breath, feeling a tinge of disappointment wash over her. This wasn't the smooth introduction she had envisioned for Damian, and she knew that building trust and camaraderie among the team would require considerable effort.
"He's a lot." Richard commented, voicing the concerns that lingered in Kori's mind. "Are you sure you can handle him?"
Kori turned to Richard, a determined smile playing on her lips. "It will be a challenge, but one that I will gladly take on. We all have our complexities, and Damian is no exception. With time and patience, I believe we can help him find his place within the team."
Richard discreetly glanced down the hallway, ensuring that their conversation remained private. Satisfied that they were alone, he allowed himself to delve into a more personal discussion. "How have you been?" He asked, his tone filled with genuine interest. "You seem to be adapting well to your new role as leader."
Kori's smile softened, reflecting a mix of gratitude and introspection. "It hasn't been without its challenges." She admitted. "But having Garfield by my side has made a significant difference. He has been a tremendous support, both in guiding me through the intricacies of leadership and helping to ease the transition for our new members."
Richard nodded in understanding. "And how is he doing?" He asked.
"He's been coping." Kori replied, her voice carrying a touch of concern. "This past year has been difficult, but I believe that involving him in mentoring the new members has provided a positive distraction."
Richard nodded in understanding, knowing how important it was to have a sense of purpose during challenging times. "And Victor?" He asked, his voice shifting to a more somber tone. "How you heard anything from him?"
Kori's expression softened, her concern extending to their absent friend. "I haven't heard much from him." She admitted. "I know he's been busy being heavily involved with the League, always at the forefront of their missions."
Kori's gaze remained locked with Richard's, their unspoken desires and lingering emotions creating a palpable tension between them. The weight of their separation had taken its toll, and now they found themselves yearning for the connection they once shared.
"I really missed you, Kori." Richard's words hung in the air, a confession that echoed the sentiment in Kori's heart.
She felt her cheeks flush, a mixture of shyness and longing coursing through her veins. "I missed you too." She admitted softly, her voice filled with longing and vulnerability. "The team keeps me occupied during the day, but when the night falls, and I lie alone in bed, thoughts of you consume my mind."
A mischievous glint danced in Richard's eyes as he responded playfully, his words laced with a hint of desire. "You're not alone in that. I find myself thinking about you too, especially when I'm lying in bed."
The magnetic pull between them grew stronger, their bodies instinctively inching closer. Kori's voice lowered to a whisper, her words laden with unspoken desire. "I never realized how much I would miss your touch." She confessed, her voice quivering with longing and anticipation. "The way your hands feel on my body, the warmth of your embrace..."
Richard's breath hitched, his heart racing in sync with hers. He leaned in closer, his voice husky with desire. "I could remind you." He murmured, their lips hovering just inches apart, the intoxicating prospect of a long-awaited kiss tantalizingly close.
But their intimate moment was abruptly shattered by the blaring sound of a loud alarm, piercing through the air and reverberating throughout the tower. Richard let out an exasperated sigh, momentarily forgetting the disruptive nature of the trouble alarm.
Reluctantly, Richard pulled away from Kori, their connection momentarily severed. The charged atmosphere dissipated, replaced by a sense of duty and responsibility. "Duty calls." He said clear disappointment in his voice. "We'll have to put this on hold for now."
...
In the common room, Richard's fingers danced across the keyboard as he swiftly accessed the Tower's computer systems, his years of training and experience allowing him to navigate through the data with ease. With a few keystrokes, he identified the source of the alarm, his eyes scanning the information on the screen.
Richard's natural inclination to assume leadership permeated the air, compelling him to step forward and guide the team. With all the members gathered, prepared, and equipped for the impending challenge, his instincts urged him to take charge and issue instructions. But as he opened his mouth to speak, his gaze involuntarily shifted towards Kori, and a profound realization washed over him.
Aware of his unspoken thoughts, Kori met Richard's gaze with a knowing look, her eyes filled with confidence and understanding.
"I'm sure, Kori can take it from here." Richard said, stepping aside, giving Kori the space to assert her authority as the team's leader.
Kori gracefully moved forward, taking her place at the forefront of the room. Her voice, firm and commanding, cut through the tension. "There has been a traffic collision on the Golden Gate Bridge." She announced, her words carrying a sense of urgency and determination. "Suit up, Titans, and let's head out."
Her words resonated with the team, the urgency of the situation igniting a sense of purpose within each member. They nodded in unison, their faces displaying unwavering determination. The Titans sprang into action without a moment's hesitation. Within mere seconds, they poured out of the tower, their determination etched across their faces. However, upon arriving at the scene, their anticipation quickly transformed into grave concern as they realized the gravity of the situation far surpassed the initial report.
Disregarding the backed-up traffic leading up to the accident, their eyes focused on the harrowing sight that unfolded before them. A chaotic tangle of mangled vehicles adorned the bridge, but none more precarious than the school bus that had careened through the shattered barrier, precariously teetering on the precipice of disaster.
Kori's commanding voice broke through the urgency of the moment, her words carrying a sense of authority that rallied the team. She swiftly assigned roles, strategically allocating responsibilities to address the multifaceted challenges they faced. "Superboy, Wonder Girl, you're in charge of the bus. Nightwing, Beast Boy, search the crashed cars for any pedestrians. Impulse, Robin, your task is to clear the backed-up traffic." She directed, her voice resolute and composed.
"Traffic control? You have to be kidding me!" Damien protested, his frustration palpable as he questioned his assigned duty.
Richard met Damien's glare head-on, his tone unwavering and firm. "Robin, your leader gave you an order." He reminded, his words carrying authority.
Damien's scowl deepened, his resentment simmering beneath the surface. Reluctantly, he turned away, his bitterness seeping into his words as he beckoned Impulse to join him. "Come on, Impulse. Let's herd the sheep." He muttered, the discontent etched into his voice.
As the team dispersed, each member embraced their designated tasks with a sense of purpose. Their unified efforts were fueled by a shared understanding of the lives hanging in the balance and the urgency to restore order amidst the chaos.
Conner's muscles strained as he exerted every ounce of his superhuman strength, his hands gripping the rear of the teetering school bus. He steadily pulled it back from the edge, his muscles bulging under the immense weight. The combined strength of Conner and Cassie proved to be a formidable force, stabilizing the bus and preventing it from plummeting into the abyss below.
Cassie swiftly positioned herself at the open window, her eyes scanning the interior of the bus, searching for any signs of injury or distress. "Is anyone hurt?" She asked and a relief washed over her as she received the silent confirmation from the frightened children, their shaken heads signaling that they were physically unharmed. "Stay calm. We're here to help." She reassured them.
With the immediate safety of the children secured, Conner's attention shifted to the task at hand. He swiftly tore off the bus door with his immense strength, creating a path for Cassie to enter. Without hesitation, she darted inside, gracefully maneuvering through the aisles. With each child she encountered, she offered a comforting hand, guiding them out of the bus and into the waiting arms of safety.
Working in perfect tandem, Cassie and Conner orchestrated a steady procession, one by one escorting the children and the grateful bus driver away from the precarious scene. Cassie's nurturing presence and Conner's unwavering support created a reassuring aura, instilling confidence and calmness in the midst of chaos.
Surrounded by honking cars and frustrated drivers, Damien and Impulse found themselves in the more mondain assigned task of directing traffic amidst the mayhem.
"I can't believe they have us on traffic duty." Damien said, his scowl deepening as he pointed impatiently, indicating which direction each vehicle should go.
Bart, ever the optimist, zoomed over to Damien, his vibrant energy in stark contrast to his brooding companion. "Even small jobs are important, Robin. I get that traffic duty might not be the most glamorous or action-packed task, but every role in this team is important, no matter how big or small it may seem."
The noise of impatient drivers and honking horns grated on Damien's nerves, intensifying his annoyance with the seemingly trivial duty. "We shouldn't even be here. A traffic jam is beneath us. The fire department could have handled this." He spoke, his words laced with bitterness as his frustration simmered beneath his hardened exterior.
"We're utilizing our unique abilities to aid everyone in this crisis with greater speed than the fire department could ever could." Bart explained. "Even the esteemed Justice League lends a hand with traffic control."
Damien's scowl deepened. He knew Bart had a point, but it was challenging for him to let go of his pride and embrace the less glamorous aspects of heroism. Eventually, a glimmer of reluctant acceptance appeared in his eyes, hinting at a gradual shift in perspective. "It's still a waste."
Back on the bridge, Richard and Garfield, accompanied by their leader, diligently made their way to each trapped car. Their priority was to assist and rescue every injured or trapped individual, ensuring their safety.
Richard swiftly opened another car door, revealing a distressed woman in the driver's seat. "Ma'am, are you okay?" He inquired with concern.
"My seatbelt is stuck! Please, in the backseat, is my baby okay?!" She pleaded desperately.
Without hesitation, Kori swiftly opened the door to the backseat, carefully retrieving the infant and cradling it in her arms. "He's alright." She reassured the worried mother.
Equipped with a knife from his belt, Richard skillfully cut the woman free before guiding her out of the car. Grateful, she expressed her heartfelt appreciation, accepting her baby from Kori's outstretched arms.
Meanwhile, Garfield hurried to the next car but paused momentarily, addressing the duo. "You know, things would go a lot faster if you two split up." He remarked, a tinge of bitterness evident in his voice.
Kori turned to Richard, considering the suggestion. "He's right. Nightwing, you continue here while I fly over to the other end of the bridge."
Richard nodded in agreement, comprehending the justification, and promptly moved on to the next vehicle. Simultaneously, Kori ascended into the sky, her attention captured by a vehicle emitting smoke from its hood.
"Beast Boy, there's smoke coming from that one!" She urgently called out.
"I'm on it!" Garfield responded without hesitation, swiftly racing towards the car with billowing black smoke. Peering through the windows, he felt relieved to find only one occupant inside. Determined to save the unconscious man, he worked to free him from the entangled seatbelt when the black smoke suddenly transformed into raging flames.
Recognizing the immediate danger, Garfield swiftly transformed into a bear, utilizing his enhanced strength to tear the seatbelt apart. He swiftly scooped up the man and prepared to flee, but before he could escape, the car exploded in a burst of intense flames.
Instinctively, Garfield squeezed his eyes shut, automatically shielding the pedestrian with his body. However, to his surprise, he felt no pain despite the deafening explosion. Slowly opening his eyes, he gazed up, bewildered, only to witness a protective forcefield of dark energy surrounding them.
Raven, with her ethereal presence, gradually lowered her arms, causing the forcefield to dissipate. She turned her gaze towards Garfield, a gentle smile gracing her features at the sight of him.
"Hi, Gar." She softly greeted him.
...