Episode 1: Laughter Never Dies
Wayne Manor: September 25th, 8:45am. A month has passed since the League of Assassins and Court of Owls attacked Wayne Manor, and whilst the Bat-Family gained a new member, they lost one as well. Damian is in the gardens, standing in front of the grave where Ace was buried.
Damian:
I miss you boy.
He wipes a stray tear from his face and goes inside. The first person he sees upon entering the manor is his father, Bruce, and mother, Selina.
Bruce:
How are you this morning Damian?
Damian:
Eh, so-so. I just really miss Ace. I still can't get over everything that happened last month.
Bruce:
I know, I miss him too. But we have to move on as best we can. Alfred's made you a special breakfast; you should eat it before it gets cold.
Damian goes over to the dining room and Bruce and Selina follow him. As they walk, Selina and Bruce converse.
Selina:
By the way, honey, you sound different. Are you feeling alright?
Bruce:
Nothing to worry about, dear. Just a sore throat. I'm sure it'll go away.
Damian, Bruce, and Selina arrive at the dining room and see Alfred and Helena there waiting for them. On the table is a huge stack of pancakes, a bowl of fresh fruit, and bacon strips.
Helena:
Happy Belated 18th Birthday big brother.
She gets up from her chair, walks over to Damian and hugs him. Damian returns the hug and tries to muster a smile.
Damian:
Thanks, Helena.
Alfred:
Have a seat, Master Damian. I do hope you enjoy it.
Damian sits at the table and stares at the banquet presented before him. Helena wastes no time loading her plate with pancakes, bacon and maple syrup. She looks over to see Damian just staring at the food.
Helena:
What's wrong, Damian? Aren't you hungry? We did all this just for you.
Alfred pours orange juice into Damian's glass; he takes one look at it before pushing it away, along with his empty plate.
Damian:
I appreciate all this, but I'm just not in the mood for any kind of celebration right now. I'm sorry.
Tim enter with Stephanie, who was carrying Ellie in her arms. Cassandra appears and takes a seat.
Cassandra:
Hey, happy belated birthday, Damian!
Damian:
Yeah, thanks.
Tim:
Why the long face? This is a happy time.
Bruce:
Damian still misses Ace, Tim.
Alfred:
Ah, the bond between a boy and his dog. A tale as old as time itself.
Selina:
We decided to celebrate your birthday now as it wasn't a good time on the proper date.
Damian:
I understand, mom, and I'm not saying I don't appreciate what you're doing here. I'm just not in the 'celebrating' mood right now.
Helena:
(Thinking to herself) Hopefully that mood of his dies down for what we have planned later today at the Jump City Tower.
Damian doesn't hear this. He gets up and leaves the room.
Alfred:
Oh, all that hard work for nothing.
Cassandra:
Don't say that, Alfred, we're all still here. Serve me up some of those pancakes!
As Cassandra loads up her plate, Helena turns her attention to Tim and Stephanie, who had Ellie sitting on her lap.
Helena:
How are you guys doing adjusting to being new parents?
Stephanie:
(Yawns) It's a little harder than it looks.
Tim:
Sorry if Ellie kept you up last night with her crying.
Helena:
It's alright; I used to do it. Maybe mom and dad can give you guys some advice if you need it.
Selina:
Love her, play with her, stimulate her mind, feed her well.
Helena:
I think they're looking for advice on how to get Ellie to sleep through the night.
Selina:
Let her sleep in-between you two. That's what we did for Helena.
Tim:
We could give it a go. What do you think, Steph?
Stephanie:
At this point I'm willing to try anything.
Jump City, Logan Residence: 9:15am. Lilith was outside Paine's bedroom door.
Lilith (Knocking):
Paine! C'mon, hurry up! Daddy made delicious veggie breakfast pizza! You gotta hurry before Mudo eats the good parts!
Paine (On the other side of the door):
I'm not hungry, Lilith. But go ahead, enjoy your feast.
Lilith:
Alright, but don't get mad when you get stuck with leftovers.
She runs down the stairs into the living room, where Raven was waiting for Paine.
Lilith:
Hey mom. I tried to get her but she's not hungry.
Raven:
Alright, I'll get her. She's gotta eat a little at least, she can't always be having coffee.
Lilith:
She was listening to a message on her phone.
She heads to the kitchen where Garfield (who was wearing a 'Kiss the Cook' apron) had taken the pizza out of the oven, and Murdoc was sitting in the booth.
Garfield:
Murdoc, I think I really outdid myself.
Murdoc:
Lemme taste it.
Garfield:
Calm down you diabolical glutton; wait till the girls get here.
Murdoc:
They don't appreciate your cooking skills like I do dad. Especially Paine so, gimme!
Lilith enters.
Lilith:
Daddy! Mudo! Paine's coming down! Is the pizza ready yet?
Garfield:
Just wait for it to cool li'l Tofu.
Lilith:
I can't wait! GIMME!
Murdoc (Covering his ears):
Ow, my ears.
Lilith:
Covering your ears, when you're a rock musician?! Ha.
Raven sits down at the table as Garfield places the pizza in the middle.
Garfield:
Any luck?
Raven:
She's spending so much time on her phone, and hasn't gone out with her friends for a while. I'm getting worried to be honest.
Garfield:
It's natural; she's just talking to an old friend. Damian's party should be what breaks her streak.
Raven:
Hopefully. Lilith, sit straight.
Lilith:
Sooooooo, hungry!
Murdoc:
I see that Balduin has taken top priority over her friends and family.
Paine (walks in):
Are you talking about me? Don't listen to that punk, none of what he says is true. It's just a long-distance friendship, that's all.
Raven:
That'll do. We don't want to start a fight. Eat up.
Garfield cuts the pizza into slices and distributes them; Lilith and Murdoc's mouths water from the aroma. Murdoc wolfs down his slices.
Garfield:
What's the rush?
Murdoc:
I've got some new music to write for my band; we'll be the entertainment at Damian's party later today.
He gets up and runs upstairs.
Raven:
Remember to clean up the kitchen when you're done!
Murdoc:
Yes mama!
Upstairs, Murdoc opens the door to Raven's private room (the same room where she and Miss Martian helped Mar'i end her nightmares about Slade). He enters and closes the door.
Murdoc:
Alright, let's get to work. Mama'll never know.
Murdoc sits down with a pen and paper and tries to brainstorm ideas for a new song. He looks at his reflection in the mirror on the table; suddenly, his face becomes demonic as four glowing red eyes appear. The vision blasts him off the seat, and he lands on the floor. He rubs his head.
Murdoc:
What the hell was that?
He clutches his head in agony, as terrifying images flash before his eyes. These images include the destruction of cities, the crumbling of the Titans Towers, innocent people getting slaughtered, and the final image is a pile of dead bodies. But these bodies aren't just any bodies; they're the bodies of all of his family and friends, with Raven, Garfield, Lilith, Paine, and Kacey at the top of it, and standing on top of this pile are three shadowy figures. Murdoc yells. Raven opens the door.
Raven:
Murdoc Logan, how many times have I told you not to come in here?! Why is it so hard for you to-
Murdoc (Tears streaming down his face):
Mama, I'm so-sorry. Just... make it stop.
Raven's anger turns to pity. She cradles her son in his arms.
Raven:
It's okay, Murdoc. Whatever you saw, it's over now.
Murdoc continues crying into his mother.
Raven:
(To herself) What did Murdoc see that was just so horrifying?
Murdoc:
It was just a vision wasn't it? It won't happen.
Raven:
I'm not sure, Murdoc. But if something is threatening us, we'll do everything in our power to stop it. And your father and I will be there to protect you and your sisters no matter what. (She kisses his forehead) Now dry your eyes, and go with your sisters to the party.
Murdoc:
Yes mama. (She gets up) Oh, and don't tell Kacey I cried like a baby.
Raven:
(Smiles) Sure thing.
Raven stares after her son as he walks off, still wondering what it was that he saw, and wondering if it's something she needs to worry about.
Jump City Titans Tower: 10:00am. The common room was decorated with streamers and balloons; Koro and Jon were hanging up a banner reading 'Happy Birthday Damian'. Murdoc and his band, 'The Devil's Advocates' are seen setting up their instruments.
Grim:
Murdoc, I can't believe you got us to perform at the base of a superhero team.
Spike:
You're my new favourite person, dude!
Murdoc:
Ah, you're welcome, guys. They just ask that you don't tell anyone about this as they don't want the public to know about their base of operations.
Spirit:
How could they not know? You don't see many buildings in the shape of a 'T'.
Murdoc:
They know to keep their distance.
Kacey runs over.
Kacey:
Everything's looking great. Now all that's missing is the boy of the moment.
Murdoc (To Spike, Grim and Spirit):
I believe you've met my girlfriend?
Spike:
Oh yeah, the speedy one.
Kacey:
Nice to see you guys again. It's been a while.
Grim:
Is your pink hair natural or hair-dye?
Kacey:
Completely natural. (The oven dings) The cake's ready.
She sprints off to the kitchen area. At the refreshments table, Olivia put putting down a pot of chilli. Martin Jr comes over.
Martin Jr:
Your father's chilli?
Olivia:
So spicy, not even Superman can tolerate it.
Mar'i, smelling the chilli, comes over.
Mar'i:
Do you mind if I taste it?
Olivia:
Help yourself, Mar'i.
She hands Mar'i a spoonful of chili and she takes a bite of it.
Mar'i:
Mmmmmm, that's good chilli.
Olivia:
Wow, you can actually stomach my dad's chilli?
Martin Jr.:
That's amazing!
Mar'i:
Tamaraneans have a high spiciness tolerance.
Martin Jr.:
Ever considered entering a chilli eating contest?
Mar'i:
I have, but it wouldn't really be fair to the other contestants.
Martin Jr.:
By the way, you and Damian have been dating for a month. Did you get him anything?
Mar'i:
I've been trying to think of ideas on what to get Damian for his birthday, but I just can't think of anything.
Martin Jr.:
Some girlfriend you are.
Mar'i:
Trust me, Martin, once I know what to get Damian I'll be sure to get it for him.
Kacey:
(Zips by with the cake in her hands) Or you could give him something 'really special'.
Olivia:
Kacey, they've only been dating for a month! It's too early for that!
The zeta tube activates.
Jon:
Alright, places everyone! Mor'gann, get the lights.
Mor'gann turns off the lights as Damian spawns outside the common room.
Damian:
No-one here. Good.
The lights turn on.
Teen Titans:
SURPRISE!
Kacey walks up to him with the cake. Damian looks at the cake, and around at the decorated common room as the 'Devil's Advocates' begin playing their music and Mar'i kisses him on the cheek.
Mar'i:
Happy belated birthday, boy wonder.
Damian:
(Tries to muster a small smile) Thanks, Mar'i.
Kacey:
What's the matter Damian? Don't you like surprises?
Damian looks at everyone's smiling faces.
Damian:
I appreciate all you've done, but I'm not in the mood. Sorry.
The 'Devil's Advocates' stop playing their music as Damian leaves the room. Mar'i, growing concerned for her boyfriend, follows him.
Kacey:
(Turns to Devil's Advocates) Why'd you boys stop playing?! Just because the birthday boy doesn't want to party doesn't mean it has to stop! Keep playing those tunes and serve me up some pizza!
Jon:
It doesn't feel appropriate to continue the party without Damian.
Kacey:
All this work and this is how he receives it? Not on my watch. You; play something. Bart; get pizza. Jon; snog Lian. Everyone else; do whatever.
Lian:
You heard him, Superboy! Kiss me like you mean it! (Practically pounces on him)
Paine:
Kacey, calm down. Damian may come back in.
Murdoc and his bandmates shrug and resume playing.
Meanwhile, Damian was sitting on the roof. Mar'i opens the door behind him.
Mar'i:
Can I join you?
Damian (looks behind him):
Sure.
Mar'i takes a seat next to her boyfriend and they two of them stare out into the horizon together.
Mar'i:
Your reaction earlier, what was that about?
Damian:
I guess I'm still a little bit down about everything that happened last month, especially Ace. He's been my pet for as long as I can remember.
Mar'i:
I understand. (Pauses) Crazy to think that a month ago, you were an enemy and this tower was attacked.
Damian:
I regret my actions everyday, Mar'i. I don't think I can say sorry enough time to be honest with you.
Mar'i:
The kiss that broke you out was worth it though.
Damian smiles thinking about that kiss.
Damian:
Yeah. (Turns to face her) Thanks for that, babe. I just also can't stop thinking about how badly I hurt you. Koro told me about your little depression.
Mar'i:
I completely shut down until Paine got me to open up.
Damian:
Speaking of Paine, she's been in contact with someone a lot recently. We're not seeing her as much.
Mar'i:
Last I heard she's been getting awfully chummy with Balduin, Geo-Force's son.
Damian:
About time she got a boyfriend.
Mar'i:
They're not dating, at least not yet.
Damian:
You didn't get me a present did you?
Mar'i:
No. I'm sorry, I couldn't think of what to get you.
Damian:
(Smiles as he wraps an arm around her) Just knowing that I'll always have you by my side is all the present I need, Mar'i.
Mar'i:
Aww. Come here you.
Right when Mar'i and Damian were about to kiss, the door opens behind them. Crush appears, eating a large slice of cake.
Crush:
If you lovebirds are done with your little tongue wrestling match, get your asses down here! There's something you should see!
They follow Crush to the common room, where a map of Jump City was open on the TV.
Damian:
What's going on, guys?
Lian:
A while back we went up against someone claiming himself to be 'the New Joker'
Koro:
The 'New Joker'? Yes, I remember him. He tried to blow up several casinos a while back.
Mar'i:
Well what's he up to now?
Koro:
We don't know.
Mar'i:
Well, let's go and investigate.
Bart returns with several boxes of pizza.
Bart:
(Looks around) This doesn't look like much a party.
Damian:
No time to party! There's trouble afoot.
Mar'i:
Titans, go!
Jump City: 10:46am. At a defunct warehouse, the new Joker (now his face was painted white, his hair dyed green and his lips bright red) was walking down an aisle of cages housing dogs, who were all barking aggressively at him.
New Joker:
Quiet, you mangy mutts! There's nothing you can do about your imprisonment now!
He hits one of the cages, but that doesn't silence the dogs for long. He goes over to a group of his goons who are opening up packages containing strange devices.
New Joker:
What's taking so long with those bombs?
Goon #1:
We're unpacking them as fast as we can, sir.
New Joker:
Well move faster! It's only a matter of time before those superpowered punks barge in to try and foil my plans.
Goon #2:
You'll never hold a candle to the original Joker.
New Joker:
You want to run that by me again, chief?
Goon #2:
I'm just saying that the original Joker wouldn't resort to 'suicide bombing dogs'. His schemes are more clever, they have some kind of a joke behind them. What's the joke here?
New Joker:
I'd tell you, but I think I'd rather cut to the punchline instead.
New Joker pulls out a gun and shoots the goon point blank through the gut. The goon then falls over dead, much to the horror of the other goons.
New Joker:
Alright, show's over, back to work!
The goons get back to unloading the bombs at double speed. New Joker looks over at one of the goons.
New Joker:
You!
The goon gets startled as New Joker stares at him.
New Joker:
Go outside and stand lookout in case we get any uninvited guests.
The good nods and goes outside.
Outside, the goon stands in front of the main entrance of the warehouse, keeping an eye out for potential intruders; save for civilians going about their lives, there was nothing.
Goon #3:
As long as I'm not stuck in there with that lunatic, I'm happy.
The goon takes out a cigarette, lights it, and starts smoking away.
Elsewhere, Nightstar and Robin were surveying the cityscape.
Nightstar:
(Talks into her communicator) Talk to me, friends. Any sign of this 'New Joker?'
Hornet and Kid Flash were in another part of the city, down an alleyway where the only company was a stray dog scrounging around for food.
Kid Flash:
Nothing yet, Nightstar. Just a dog.
The dog notices them before going back to scrounging, poking into ripped trash bags for anything that could be edible. Suddenly, a van appears out of nowhere and is heading for them.
Hornet:
Quick hide!
Hornet and Kid Flash hide behind a dumpster just as the van stops in front of the stray dog and two more goons hop out of it.
Goon #4:
There's another one.
Before the dog could get anywhere far, one of the goons grabs the dog by the rough of the neck and throws it in the back of the van before it has the chance to escape.
Goon #4:
(Laughs) Stupid, flea bitten, mutt!
Goon #5:
This dog should just about do it.
Goon #4:
Yeah, the boss should have enough dogs now to enact his plan.
As the van drives away, Hornet uses his blaster to fire a tracking device onto the back.
Hornet:
(Talks into the communicator) Okay guys, a van just pulled up and abducted this stray dog. I attached a tracking device to the van before it drove off, so now it's up to you to chase after it.
Robin (Voice):
We're all over it, Hornet.
Hornet disconnects the call and opens up a hologram on his wrist, showing a map of Jump City with a moving red dot.
Hornet:
Where are you lunatics heading?
Kid Flash:
Twenty bucks says chemical factory.
Hornet:
Not quite. (He follows the red dot with his eyes until it eventually stopped at the slums of the city where the warehouse is located) Gotcha. (Talks into the communicator) I'm sending you guys the location now!
On the other end, Nightstar and Robin receive the location on their devices.
Nightstar:
We're on our way right now!
Jump City Titans Tower: meanwhile. Murdoc was trying to keep the party going.
Murdoc:
For those of you out here looking to have a good time tonight, give me a shout!
Everyone present applauds for him and his band.
Paine:
It's the middle of the day, you crazy punk.
Murdoc:
Showmanship, big sis! (Clears throat) I dedicate this song to a very special lady who is currently out there right now kicking ass and taking names! Kacey West, wherever you are right now, babe, this one's for you!
The band begins playing "Hair Like Heart".
Murdoc (Singing):
How am I lucky,
to find a girl who some might say is an unlucky quest?
A girl so fast with hair like heart.
In the audience, Crush is bopping her head and tapping her foot to the beat, catching Damon's attention.
Damon:
I can see you're taking a shine to Murdoc's music.
Crush:
These Devil's Advocates guys aren't half bad.
Damon:
You want their autograph?
Crush:
After this song. It's not really my style to hop up on stage like a crazed fangirl.
Damon:
Alright.
At the table, Lilith was dipping strawberries into the chocolate fountain. Koro comes up next to her and dips a pretzel stick into the fountain.
Koro:
Great party, isn't it Lilith?
Lilith:
Can't remember the last time we had one.
Koro:
Neither can I. I feel like we fight some kind of threat every other day. That's why I cherish moments like this where we can just act like regular teenagers and we don't have to worry about cities in peril or world's ending.
Lilith:
Yup.
She dipped a grape in the fountain.
Koro:
So, (blushes a little bit) What's new with you?
Lilith:
Not much. You?
Koro:
About the same. How about your brother and sister? Anything new going on with them?
Lilith:
Paine's in love.
Koro:
Oh, who's the lucky guy?
Lilith:
Brion Markov's son, Balduin.
Koro:
Soil-Force?
Lilith:
Eeyup! Haven't seen him in years.
Koro:
I wonder if he'd consider joining us? We could really use someone with his abilities on our side.
Lilith:
We already have Alloroc, who can also control water and marine animals. Two, for lack of a better term, 'earthbenders' might be overkill.
Koro:
Sometimes it's better to have too much of something than not enough. Look, we have two speedsters and three archers.
Lilith:
I guess you made your point, Koro. Speaking of speedsters, I wonder what the Allen twins are up to these days?
Koro:
Oh you know, they're always making Iris run around in circles.
Lilith:
(Chuckles) They always were a handful when we were growing up. Remember when they showed up to Kacey's 10th birthday party?
Koro:
I'll always remember that day. They deserve to be called the Tornado Twins.
Lilith:
I suppose having four speedsters on our side and an additional 'earthbender' wouldn't hurt all that much.
Koro:
Exactly.
The Devils' Advocates finish their song just as Damon and Crush come up to them.
Damon:
Good job, fellas.
Crush:
You guys sure have talent.
The Devils' Advocates say nothing, as they are amazed at the appearance of the duo that stand before them.
Damon:
What's wrong with you all?
Spike:
You two look amazing!
Grim:
A croc-human thing and a punk rock girl; badass.
Damon:
R-Really? You guys aren't just saying that are you?
Grim:
No way! What we're saying is nothing but the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth so help us God!
Spirit:
Someone like you would make an excellent hype-man for one of our shows! What do you say? You want in?
Damon gives a big smile, feeling accepted for who he is for the first time in his life...outside of the Titans that is.
Damon:
You bet I want in, dude!
Damon and Spirit high five each other.
Spirit (To Crush):
And what about you?
Crush:
What about me?
Spike:
Can you play a musical instrument?
Crush:
No. But I want to.
Murdoc:
You keep bonding, I'm just gonna go refresh.
As Murdoc leaves, Spike, Grim, and Spirit keep conversing with Crush.
Spike:
Pick one of our instruments and we'll see if you're any good at it.
Crush picks up Grim's bass guitar. She plays a few notes, before performing a scale, and then she plays a short song that neither Damon, Grim, Spike, nor Spirit has ever heard before.
Damon:
That's a beautiful song, Crush. Where'd you learn it?
Crush:
Oh, that's just a lullaby that my father used to sing to me. You know before our...falling out.
Damon:
You father used to sing to you when you were a baby? With all the stories I heard about your old man I never thought he'd be the type for that kind of mushy stuff.
Crush:
He was a lot different when I was younger. But as I grew up, he got back into old habits he had before I was born, and I just don't recognize him anymore.
Damon:
Wish my father was the same. But it's weird. Even though he wasn't 'Father of the Year' material. I kind of miss him, and at least we were able to patch things up before his death. I hope you and your father can patch things up too, Crush.
Crush:
It could happen, but I'm happier without him.
Damon:
Yeah, my Dad on the other hand, I'm kind of indifferent.
In the bathroom, Murdoc has flushed the toilet and was now washing his hands at the faucet.
Murdoc:
(Looks into the Mirror, slicks back his hair and grins) Looking good, Mudo. Now it's time to-
Suddenly, he gets the visions again. He closes his eyes tight, then hears a disembodied voice.
Voice:
Murdoc...
Murdoc:
Huh? Who's there?
He opens his eyes and sees himself surrounded by hellfire, burning buildings and dead bodies.
Murdoc:
Oh no, not again. Please not this again!
He closes his eyes again.
Murdoc:
Ahhhhhhhh!
He raises his hands and fires off a black aura. When he opens his eyes, he's back in the bathroom, but the mirror was now cracked. As Murdoc hyperventilates over what he just saw, there was a knock on the door.
Murdoc:
(Stammers) J-Just one minute!
Murdoc tries to figure out a way to cover the cracked mirror, but eventually just gives up and opens the door to find Lilith standing there.
Lilith:
I felt a disturbance, and I heard you yelling. And why's the mirror smashed?
Murdoc:
Oh, I (rubs the back of his head) slipped on the bathmat.
Lilith:
Are you okay?
Murdoc:
Yeah, Lil, don't worry about it. Now, come on, there's a party out there waiting for us.
Murdoc dries his hands and walks past his sister. Lilith looks at him, then at the bathroom. She stares at the crack in the mirror before re-joining the party.
Jump City: 10:58am. Kid Flash and Hornet follow the van with their super speed and jetpack.
Hornet:
Robin and Nightstar are on their way to where this van's heading as we speak.
Kid Flash:
And this dog is the key to what they're doing.
At the warehouse; New Joker and his goons were going from cage-to-cage, attaching the bombs around the dogs' necks.
Goon #1:
The dogs are almost ready to go, boss.
New Joker:
And not an intruder in site to foil my plans. Things are finally going my way!
One dog backed away, but it didn't have room to move; a goon held it around the neck and attached the bomb to its collar.
Goon #4:
That's the last of them, boss!
New Joker (Attaching a bomb to a black Labrador retriever puppy):
Good. Now, let the running of the dogs commence.
The goons go to open up the cages and set the dogs free as another goon opens a big, sliding door so the dogs can get out.
Goon #2:
So, what's the punchline to the dog being blown up? Joker always had some kind of joke to it
Outside, Nightstar and Robin see the pack running out of the door.
Robin:
(Looking through a visor) Hey, Hornet, we're at the location you gave us and a whole stampede of dogs are running out of this warehouse. They seem to have these weird collars around their necks.
Nightstar:
We're going to go investigate the warehouse. In the meantime, you and Kid Flash go after these dogs to see where they're going.
Kid Flash (Voice):
We're on it, Nightstar.
Hornet (Voice):
Good luck, you guys, and be careful.
Nightstar:
How should we approach?
Robin:
There's gotta be another way into that warehouse. Come on, follow me.
Nightstar:
Hang on. We just gotta take out that guy.
She takes out a birdarang, turns on the 'Stun' setting, aims it at the goon and throws it; it perfectly clonks the goon in the head, knocking him out cold, the cigarette falls out of his mouth. The birdarang returns to Nightstar, who catches it.
Nightstar:
Okay. Lead on.
Nightstar follows Robin to the back of the warehouse. They're surprised to see that the door is unlocked.
Robin:
Huh, they left it unlocked.
Nightstar:
It might be a trap. Be careful.
Nightstar surveys the interior for booby-traps.
Nightstar:
It looks safe enough. (Turns to Robin) Let's proceed. But be careful.
The two slowly enter the warehouse. Nightstar clenches onto her bo-staff while Robin has a birdarang at the ready. They turn keep walking until they see a figure. It was New Joker!
Robin:
You think that's the New Joker our friends were talking about?
Nightstar:
Let's see if we can get a closer look before we do anything drastic.
They watch as New Joker watches a map of Jump City, where 25 red dots were moving quickly; he was holding a detonator in his hand.
New Joker:
Any second now.
Nightstar and Robin aren't very far from him.
Nightstar:
Hornet said that there was a stampede of dogs with weird collars that left this warehouse. You don't think those collars were bombs, do you?
Hornet (Voice):
Bombs? This guy is twisted.
Robin:
He is trying to be the next Joker after all. And that clown was as messed up as they come.
Nightstar:
Just focus on the dogs. We'll handle this clown.
Kid Flash (Voice):
You got it.
The call disconnects; Nightstar sees Robin fuming as he slowly unsheathes his sword.
Nightstar:
Babe, are you okay?
Robin:
The fact that anyone would do something this horrid to a dog is downright appalling! Those dogs could have owners that are worried sick about them. Even though most of them are strays, no dog deserves this.
Nightstar:
I understand your anger, Damian, but remember, our job is to detain the New Joker not kill him.
Robin doesn't listen and leaps down from their hiding place, sword held over his head, leaping at New Joker. Robin swings with his sword, but New Joker dodges in the nick of time.
New Joker:
And there's my uninvited guest, right on schedule.
Robin:
Sick freak!
Robin swings his sword a few more times, but every time New Joker dodges. Nightstar sighs and flies down; New Joker grabs her and his gloves electrocute her. Robin swipes at him, only to be grabbed on the hand and electrocuted. He eventually stops and throws the two of them to the ground.
New Joker:
Heh, *shocking* isn't it?
A little later, Robin wakes up, rubbing his head. He looks around to see that he's in a cage and Nightstar is right next to him. Even more shocking was that she had one of the bomb collars around her neck. Robin felt around his own neck to see that he had a bomb collar on it as well.
Robin:
What?
Nightstar stirs too. Nightstar stirs too and she feels something around her neck. He puts her hand there, and feels something metallic.
Nightstar:
What the hell is this?! Robin, what's going on?
Robin:
I don't know! Quick, let's call the others! They can rescue us!
They feel around for their communicators, but they can find them. It's at this moment when New Joker appears outside of the cage.
New Joker:
Ahem.
Robin and Nightstar turn to face him. They look and see that he's in possession of their communicators.
New Joker:
Looking for these?
She feels around for her utility belt, where her bo-staff and birdarangs would be stored, but she didn't have it.
Nightstar:
I feel naked, and not in the fun way.
Robin:
I don't have my weapons either!
New Joker holds up his other hand, holding the utility belts and weapons.
New Joker:
You won't be needing these little trinkets for what's coming next. But maybe me and my goons can make good use of them.
New Joker crushes the communicators in his hand as Robin bangs on the bars.
Robin:
Just you wait until we bust out of here! We're gonna make you pay, you psychopath!
New Joker:
You can try, but you won't. All you two can do is sit there and enjoy whatever time you think you have left.
New Joker laughs to himself as he walks away from the caged duo.
New Joker:
See boys. There's your Joker enthusiasm.
Goon #1:
Very good sir.
Nightstar:
Wait, I think I can break us out.
She grabs the bars and begins to pull them apart. As she pulls, New Joker casually presses a button, causing the collar around her neck to electrocute her; she lets go of the bars.
New Joker:
Try to break out and you'll get shocked; next time I won't be so forgiving. Oh wait, there won't be.
He laughs as Nightstar sits next to Robin, feeling defeated.
Out in the city, Kid Flash and Hornet were playing dog-wranglers.
Hornet:
When you catch a dog, deactivate its bomb by any means necessary.
Kid Flash:
Do I look like I work for the bomb squad?
Hornet:
I did this sorta thing before, so you should listen to me.
Kid Flash:
Alright, I trust you. But only because I don't have much of a choice.
Hornet:
Now let's get after those dogs.
Kid Flash reaches into her pocket and pulls out a baggie loaded with ham.
Kid Flash:
I get snacky.
Hornet:
Maybe give some of that ham to the dogs so we can lure them to us?
Kid Flash:
(Whining) But I'm hungry.
Hornet:
Do you want potential hundreds to die?
Kid Flash:
Fine.
Hornet puts on his visor and scouts out the plaza across the road from them.
Hornet:
There, behind the fountain.
They hurry over to the fountain and Kid Flash throws a piece of ham in front of the dog, who quickly starts eating it. As it does, Hornet and Kid Flash get next to the dog and prepare to deactivate the bomb.
Hornet:
Alright, go easy. We don't wanna accidentally set it off.
Kid Flash:
Alright, what do we do?
Hornet:
Follow my lead. Open the panel (He pries it off), and cut the red wire.
Kid Flash:
Are you sure it's the red wire? Red usually means danger.
Hornet:
Just trust me.
Kid Flash cautiously cuts the red wire and it deactivates the bomb. She lets out a sigh of relief as the dog takes off with the piece of ham.
Hornet:
That's one down and 24 more to go. We have no time to lose, let's go!
The two of them hurry off to find more dogs.
At the tower, the Devil's Advocates were playing a rendition of 'Nothing Else Matters'. Everyone there is dancing to the beat, Crush and Damon especially. Paine was on her phone, texting someone, when Lilith comes over to snoop on her.
Lilith:
Is that Balduin again?
Paine quickly puts her phone away.
Paine:
No.
Lilith:
It's fine if you have a crush on him you know. I won't tell.
Paine:
Like you have a crush on Koro.
Lilith shushes her sister.
Lilith:
Not so loud. You don't think Mar'i knows I like him do you?
Paine:
You're terrible at keeping secrets.
Lilith:
Name one time!
Paine:
You let slip Murdoc's 13th 'Surprise' Birthday Party.
Lilith:
I was excited, alright? But I promise I'll keep this one a secret.
Paine:
And if you break that promise, you owe me big time.
Lilith makes a zipping gesture with her mouth before going back to the table for more food. At the main computer, Jon was sitting staring at the screen when Lian comes over, eating sushi.
Lian:
(With her mouth full of sushi) What are you doing monitoring our friends, babe? (Swallows) Come on, the party's out there.
Jon:
It's the weirdest thing. Mar'i and Damian's signals just disappeared.
Lian:
They've been captured?
Jon:
That's the likeliest theory, or just signal interference.
Lian:
You think we should go check it out?
Jon:
It wouldn't hurt. (He turns to everyone else) Alright, Lian and I are heading out.
Lilith:
Aw, now? But the party's just starting to get fun.
Jon:
Don't worry, we'll be right back. We promise.
Later, they're flying through Jump City; Black Arrow was riding on Superboy's back.
Superboy:
Keep your eyes peeled if you see Nightstar, Robin, or anything suspicious.
Black Arrow:
It's hard to see!
Superboy:
Are your eyes closed?!
Black Arrow:
I'm not a very good flier.
Superboy:
You get used to it.
He keeps scanning the city until he sees Hornet and Kid Flash diffuse the bomb on another dog.
Superboy:
I see Hornet and Kid Flash! Maybe they know where Robin and Nightstar are.
They land in front of them.
Kid Flash:
Huh? What are you two doing here? Did the party get boring for you guys?
Superboy:
We lost Robin and Nightstar's signal. We fear something may have happened to them.
Kid Flash:
Now that you mention it, I can't contact them.
Black Arrow:
Alright, let's think people. Do either of you know where Robin and Nightstar were heading last?
Hornet:
They were on their way to a warehouse to stop New Joker. I think I still have the location.
He opens his map: the red dot was still blinking.
Hornet:
The guys who drove the van still have no idea.
Superboy:
(Points at the blinking red dot) So that's where Robin and Nightstar are?
Hornet:
I think so. (He closes the map)
Kid Flash:
New Joker is using these 'suicide bombing dogs'. Hornet and I are trying to find all of these dogs before the bombs have a chance to go off.
Black Arrow:
How many did you get so far?
Kid Flash:
Of the 25 we saw leave the warehouse, we got about 13.
Superboy:
Alright, you two go after the rest of the dogs, Black Arrow and I will go to that warehouse and go save Robin and Nightstar.
At the warehouse, Robin and Nightstar sat in their cage, trying to take the bomb collars off.
Nightstar:
It's no use! They won't come off no matter what we do!
Robin:
So, this is how it ends? I let my emotions get the best of me once more, and it landed us here.
Nightstar:
What do you mean?
Robin:
I'm still a little down in the dumps over what happened to Ace. So, when I heard what New Joker was planning on doing to all of those dogs, I just lost it and I let my anger and my sadness take over.
Nightstar:
I understand what you're going through.
She hugs Robin as he rubs her back as a means to comfort her. They both stare out of their cages with worried looks on their faces.
Robin:
It'll take a miracle for us to get out of here now.
They look hopelessly at New Joker, whose hand was still holding the detonator.
New Joker:
I think I've waited long enough. Let's see some fireworks!
He presses the button; Nightstar and Robin's collars begin blinking.
In Jump City, Kid Flash and Hornet disable another bomb collar.
Kid Flash:
How many left?
Hornet (Looks at the map):
Eleven.
The red dots start blinking.
Kid Flash:
Please tell me that light blinking is a good thing!
Hornet:
I don't think so!
Superboy:
Find the rest of the dogs, quickly! We'll find Rob and Star.
Black Arrow grabs onto her boyfriend.
Superboy:
Hang on!
Superboy flies off with Black Arrow screaming and holding on for dear life.
Hornet:
We should split up.
Kid Flash:
Agreed.
Kid Flash sprints off; Hornet activates his jetpack and takes off.
Back at the Warehouse, New Joker goes for cover as he waits for Nightstar and Robin to blow up.
New Joker:
Any last words before you go boom?
Robin:
As cliché as this sounds, (Turns to Nightstar) Nightstar, I love you.
Nightstar:
I love you too.
They kiss each other deeply as New Joker looks on in disgust.
New Joker:
Ugh, why can't we get to the boom-time faster?
He begins pressing the detonator impatiently, just as part of the ceiling caves in.
New Joker:
What the hell?!
He jumps out of the way to avoid the falling rubble just as Superboy and Black Arrow fly in from the hole in the ceiling. When they land, the first thing Black Arrow does is vomit on the floor.
Black Arrow:
Next time you carry me, bring sick bags.
Nightstar:
Guys, thank God you're here!
Superboy:
Glad to see you two still in one piece.
New Joker:
They won't be for long!
Black Arrow fires an arrow at New Joker's hand, hitting the detonator. This causes it to break, which causes the bombs to deactivate.
Robin:
Alright!
Superboy runs over to the cage and uses his strength to break the bars so Robin and Nightstar can escape.
In Jump City, Hornet is trying to take a bomb off another dog; it stops blinking.
Hornet:
The signal's gone!
Kid Flash:
I think they did it!
The dog looks at them, then runs off.
At the warehouse, Robin and Nightstar tear off their disabled collars and reclaim their kits.
Robin:
Now then (Gets in a fighting stance as does Nightstar, Black Arrow, and Superboy) where were we?
New Joker's hands buzz with electricity.
Robin:
A near-perfect imitation of the real thing.
Nightstar:
(Looks over at Superboy and Black Arrow) Don't let him touch you with that thing, guys. That's how Robin and I got captured.
Black Arrow:
Got it.
Superboy:
Don't worry about me.
New Joker lunges forward, but the four heroes move out of the way. He steadies himself before swiping at Robin, who dodges every swipe as Superboy comes in from the side and knocks him into the big screen; the hand-buzzers cause the screen to short-circuit and shut down.
New Joker:
(Gets up in pain) You stupid brats! Do you know how much I had to pay for that thing?
Black Arrow:
Tell me, did you use stolen casino money for that thing?
New Joker:
Yes.
Black Arrow:
Huh, was not expecting a direct answer from you.
New Joker:
But I bet you weren't expecting this either!
New Joker pulls out his gun and starts firing it at the four heroes. Superboy gets in front of everyone as the bullets hit him, but do no damage.
Superboy:
Forget you were dealing with the son of the Last Son of Krypton, didn't you?
New Joker:
Apparently.
His gun clicks. Superboy flicks him into the wall. Before New Joker could get up again, he's surrounded by Nightstar, Robin, Superboy, and Black Arrow, the latter of whom had an arrow pointed directly at him. He sighs and raises his hands.
New Joker:
I give up.
The four glare at his goons, who decide to flee. Black Arrow takes out some binders and cuffs his hands together. The warehouse door opens; Kid Flash and Hornet appear with the 25 dogs, now all free.
Robin:
Hey, you guys actually did it!
Kid Flash:
Like there was any doubt.
The dogs run in and surround new Joker. They are quick to bark at and bite him.
Kid Flash:
Guess these pups love their new chew toy, huh Hornet?
Hornet:
You can say that again.
Nightstar:
Run; you're free. Go. We'll take it from here.
After giving New Joker payback, the dogs bark with gratitude as they run off to parts unknown. As the Titans watch the dogs run free, Nightstar feels something rubbing up against her leg; she looks down to see a black Labrador puppy about to do its business on her. Nightstar steps away as it whizzes. Once it finished, she picks it up.
Nightstar:
Silly little thing, I'm not a fire hydrant. I'm not even dressed as the colour of one. But you sure are cute though.
The puppy licks her face and Nightstar chuckles warmly. Cradling the puppy in her arms, she looks over at Robin.
Nightstar:
I know someone who would love to have you.
Jump City Titans Tower: 11:15pm. The four return to the party, now out of their uniform.
Olivia:
Hey, look who's back.
Martin Jr.:
I take it your mission went off without a hitch.
Damian:
Well, Mar'i and I almost got blown up...(ashamed) because of me. But luckily, Jon and Lian met up with Jaden and Kacey and they were able to fly in and save us.
Olivia:
Where are Jaden and Kacey anyway?
Mar'i:
Let's just say they went to drop New Joker off at 'the pound'.
Martin Jr.:
(Not understanding the joke) You mean jail?
Mar'i:
Yeah.
Jon:
He rounded up some stray dogs and attached bomb collars to them.
Martin Jr.:
Yikes!
Lian:
Don't worry. They're all safe and sound now, and they're roaming the city in peace.
Mar'i:
Alright Damian, close your eyes.
Mar'i:
Alright Damian, close your eyes and hold out your hands.
Damian:
(Curious) Why?
Mar'i:
Don't you trust me?
Damian:
Alright, I trust you.
Damian closes his eyes and holds out his hands as Mar'i puts the black Labrador puppy in them.
Mar'i:
Open.
He opens his eyes to see the puppy looking up at him. Immediately he could feel his heart melting as his eyes and the puppy's eyes meet.
Damian:
Mar'i...you didn't have to do this.
Mar'i:
I know, but I wanted to. And besides, this little guy looked awfully lonely when I first saw him.
Damian:
(On the verge of happy tears) Mar'i, I love him! Thank you so much!
Mar'i:
Happy belated birthday Damian.
She kisses him.
Damian:
I'll never forget this day.
Mar'i:
C'mon, let's party.
Mar'i, Damian, Jon, and Lian rejoin everybody by the stage where Devil's Advocate is performing so they can listen to more music and celebrate Damian's birthday.
Wayne Manor: 6:00pm. Damian and Helena arrive home; Tim and Stephanie were in the living room, playing with Ellie.
Damian:
We're home, everyone!
Tim:
Hey, Damian, you seem to be in a better mood.
Damian:
I have a good reason to be. Meet the newest addition to the Wayne Family!
He holds out the black Labrador puppy for Tim, Stephanie, and Ellie to see. Ellie crawls forwards and touches the puppy. The puppy nuzzles the baby in return, causing her to giggle.
Stephanie:
Aw, your new puppy is so cute, Damian. And he seems to have really taken a shine to Ellie.
Tim:
Does he have a name?
Damian:
(Nods his head) Titus.
Tim:
Good name.
Helena:
It suits him well.
Damian:
An honourable name for an honourable pup.
Damian smiles; the rest of the family come in.
Damian:
Mom, Dad, Cass, Alfred, meet Titus.
He holds up the puppy for them to see.
Selina:
Aww, he's so cute!
Bruce:
Where did you find him?
Damian:
On a mission to stop the New Joker from using a bunch of stray dogs as bombs.
Alfred:
I heard about this New Joker. Isn't he the one who tried to rob those casinos a while back?
Damian:
Yeah, but don't worry, I have feeling he won't be causing us trouble any time soon.
Bruce:
Well, in any case, Titus looks like it's doing a good job in perking up your mood.
Damian:
Indeed he is father. (Scratches his head) You must be hungry.
Helena:
I'll fetch the kibble.
She heads off to the kitchen.
Damian:
You're going to make a great addition to our family, Titus.
Titus barks happily as Damian takes him into the kitchen.
An hour later, Damian is in his room with Titus, who had fallen asleep on his bed. Damian looks at the sleeping puppy happily as he gently pets him.
Damian:
The best present ever, from the best girlfriend ever.
And with that, Damian falls asleep. Titus yawns as he cuddles up next to his new owner.
Logan Residence: 10:00pm. Garfield and Raven were in their bed; Garfield was sleeping soundly, but Raven was still awake.
Raven:
Murdoc...what did he see when he was in there?
Garfield:
Huh? (He wakes up and sits up, looking at his wife) What about Murdoc? Did he have a bad time at the party?
Raven:
I don't know. He was awfully quiet when he came home, and I can't stop thinking about what he saw when he went into my private room?
Garfield:
What did he see? (Puts his hand in hers)
Raven:
Figments of his imagination, as he says. But whatever it was, it left him totally traumatized. I've never seen him like that before. Not even when he walked in on us that one time when he was six.
Garfield:
Yeah that was embarrassing.
Raven:
Regardless, we should keep a close eye on him.
Garfield:
Good call.
Raven lies down and turns over.
Garfield:
Our son is going to be okay, Rae, I know he will.
Raven:
I hope you're right, because if he isn't, I fear something really bad will happen.
Meanwhile in the underworld... Three demonic beings were watching Murdoc getting ready for bed.
Wrath:
Our father's revival is at hand, brothers.
Lust:
That brat our sister popped out will make for an excellent vessel!
End of 'Laughter Never Dies'
Cast
Kari Wahlgren: Nightstar/Mar'i Grayson
Taylor Grey: Koro Grayson
Stuart Allan: Robin/Damian Wayne
Alyson Stoner: Helena Wayne
Cameron Monaghan: Superboy/Jon Kent
Ashley Eckstein: Paine Logan
Jesse McCartney: Murdoc Logan
Debi Derryberry: Lilith Logan
Lacey Chabert: Black Arrow/Lian Harper
Jessie Flower: Kid Flash/Kacey West
Meagan Smith: Olivia Queen
Zack Tyler: Alloroc Markov
Damon Wayans Jr: Hornet/Jaden Stone
James Arnold Taylor: Damon Jones, Goon #2
Jason Marsden: Bart Allen
Seth Green: Martin Jordan Jr
Janet Varney: Crush
Greg Cipes: Garfield Logan, Spike, Lust
Tara Strong: Raven/Rachel Logan
Roger Craig Smith: Bruce Wayne
Grey Griffin: Selina Kyle-Wayne
Alastair Duncan: Alfred Pennyworth
Melissa Disney: Cassandra Cain
Will Friedle: Tim Drake
Mae Whitman: Stephanie Drake
Hank Azaria: New Joker
Scott Menville: Grim, Goon #2
Jess Harnell: Spirit, Goon #4
Kevin Michael Richardson: Goon #1, Wrath
