Titans Together
...
Trigon is gone, but that doesn't mean Raven is free. His lingering influence persists, a constant reminder that he continues to live on inside of her. Despite her efforts to forge ahead and embrace life, Raven remains tethered to the past. She continues to work with Richard and the other Titans as they train to become heroes and live up to the name they represent. But as new powers are discovered, and new villains come out of the shadows, Raven continues to doubt she is capable of being a hero when she was destined for evil. Sequel to The Commencing. RobStar-BBRae
...
Chapter One.
...
One year had passed since the world unwittingly bore the wrath of Trigon the Terrible. In the aftermath of the cataclysmic events, the once ravaged landscapes were slowly regaining vitality. The resilient trees, decimated in the wake of Trigon's fury, had begun their tentative resurgence, their branches reaching toward the healing sky. The ebb and flow of nature's rhythm brought back the chorus of life as animals cautiously returned to habitats disrupted by chaos.
Against all odds, the tenacity of humanity prevailed, and civilization rose from the ashes of destruction. Cities were reconstructed, and the intricate tapestry of human society was meticulously rewoven. The scars left by Trigon's devastation remained, etched into the collective memory of the planet, but Earth was on the path to recovery.
Despite visible signs of renewal, an unmistakable emptiness endured—a ghostly reminder of Trigon's malevolence. The ongoing process of healing, for both the land and its inhabitants, unfolded as a journey marked by unwavering resilience and unyielding determination. The path to recovery was still unfolding, and as Earth undertook this journey, the scars served as a poignant emblem, reflecting both the delicate nature and robust fortitude of life in the aftermath of profound upheaval. While the planet stitched itself back together, the scars left by Trigon's wrath stood as a testament to the indomitable strength of those who refused to surrender to despair.
...
Within the confines of the Tower, a well-maintained routine unfolded for the budding Titans. Central to this regimen was the daily pilgrimage to the combat room, where relentless training became a cornerstone in sculpting these aspirant heroes. While the grind of continuous exercises often felt wearisome and seemingly redundant, there was an undeniable transformation occurring, gradually shaping the raw potential of these emerging heroes.
Garfield didn't agree with the arduous and meticulous nature of the training. Many days tested his resolve, tempting him to throw in the towel. Yet, the young man's dream of becoming a hero kept him going. Now, standing before the large wall mirror in the combat room, the reflection revealed the tangible fruits of his persistent labor, and a sense of pride welled within him.
Garfield luxuriously flexed his arm, appreciating the sculpted contours of his fit physique and the definition of his toned bicep in the mirror's reflection. Oblivious to the unimpressed bystander beside him, Raven couldn't help but roll her eyes at his self-admiration. Caught up in the moment, Garfield reveled in the physical transformation, momentarily lost in his own reflection. However, Raven's disapproving presence became apparent as she cleared her throat, abruptly snapping Garfield out of his self-absorption. "If you're done gawking at yourself, Richard is about to showcase a combat demonstration." She deadpanned, her tone slicing through the air with a hint of exasperation.
"I wasn't gawking." Garfield shot back defensively, embarrassment coloring his response.
Raven, crossing her arms, cast him a knowing look, her silent commentary on his unintentional vanity.
Yet, Garfield wasn't the sole beneficiary of the year's transformative impact. Since the definitive defeat of her father, Raven's well-being had undergone a profound improvement. The once elusive dream of experiencing peaceful nights had materialized, as her nightmares gradually receded into distant memory. Her physical health, no longer marred by malnourishment, had significantly blossomed. Embracing a routine of nourishing eating habits, she now thrived with newfound vitality.
However, despite these positive changes, Richard's persistent training routines remained a source of annoyance for Raven. The demanding sessions served as a diversion, redirecting her attention from the enigmatic powers she still struggled to control. While the introduction of the chakra stone had brought a degree of stability to her abilities, they lingered as an unpredictable force she hadn't entirely mastered. The persistent uncertainty surrounding the full extent of her capabilities left Raven with an underlying fear, a concern that she might inadvertently harm others due to her still-evolving control over her formidable powers. In this delicate balance between progress and lingering uncertainty, Raven found solace in the structured focus that training provided, offering a welcome distraction from the persistent shadows of her own potential.
On the platform nestled in the heart of the combat room, a charged silence hung in the air as Richard and Kori positioned themselves opposite to each other. Without uttering a word, Richard approached the display rack and retrieved two gleaming swords, deftly tossing one to his awaiting opponent.
"Oh, real weapons. We're getting serious now." Garfield quipped with a smirk.
Richard turned to address him sternly. "It's best to be prepared for the real thing. A true villain won't wield foam swords or dull sticks. They'll come armed with real knives, guns, and swords, sharp enough to cut off a limb in one strike. And I'll prepare you for that." He declared, emphasizing the gravity of their training.
"Looking forward to it." Raven drawled, crossing her arms with an air of nonchalance.
Returning his focus to Kori, Richard and his opponent exchanged competitive smirks. "Are you ready?" he inquired.
"Always." Kori responded with a confident grin.
The clash unfolded with a sudden burst of intensity as Kori lunged forward, her weapon poised to strike at Richard. Swift and precise, he deftly blocked the incoming blade with his own, seamlessly countering with a quick throw before skillfully maneuvering around her. In a fluid motion, he swung his weapon low, aiming for Kori's legs. However, the alien warrior exhibited remarkable agility, leaping gracefully to evade the attack, affording Richard the opportunity to stand back up and launch another offensive.
The room resonated with the rhythmic clashing of their swords as they engaged in a relentless exchange. Despite Richard's proficiency in various skills, including sword fighting, his temporary hiatus from the art form over the past couple of years had left him somewhat rusty. In contrast, Kori showcased a seamless blend of agility and prowess, each movement a testament to her formidable skills.
Their swords met again as Richard swung his blade. Kori swiftly blocked it, the clash reverberating through the room as they pressed the weight of their bodies against their weapons. "It appears you aren't as skilled with a sword as you are with other things." Kori observed before overpowering Richard's blade with a calculated move.
Stepping back a few paces, Richard quickly regained his footing. "I'll admit I'm a little out of practice. Which is why this isn't just helpful for the observers, but for me as well." He added, his words punctuated by a renewed charge as he ran forward, swiping his blade.
Kori swiftly blocked his advances, countering with a precise swipe of her leg that brought Richard to the ground. As he looked up at her, she pointed the tip of her blade at his throat, a victorious smile gracing her lips.
"You lasted a lot longer this time." She complimented, removing her sword, and extending her hand to help Richard to his feet.
Amused by the possible implication, Garfield couldn't help but snicker. "That will hit the ego." He playfully remarked, earning a swift elbow from Raven.
Kori, turning her attention to him, clarified. "Oh no, I meant in training, of course." A sudden blush crossed her face as she corrected her unintentional innuendo. "He's very proficient when we have se—"
"Kori!" Richard interjected, prompting her to blush even more at the inadvertent slip of the tongue.
"Gross." Raven grimaced while Garfield erupted into laughter beside her.
"My apologies." Kori said with a charming coyness. "On Tamaran, we are open with our sexual encounters and experiences. I'm still getting used to humans not sharing what happens in private."
Throughout the year, Koriand'r had been a keen observer. Her rapid learning ability sometimes led others to overlook the fact that there were still many aspects she didn't grasp. However, earthly customs, along with English slang, remained unfamiliar territory for her.
Quick to steer the subject away from Kori's slip of the tongue, Richard swiftly transitioned the focus back to the training session at hand. The atmosphere in the room became charged with a sense of purpose as he redirected the conversation to the other two Titans. "You two are up." He declared, a confident smile playing on his lips as he directed his sword towards them.
"For real?" Garfield questioned with a mix of surprise and excitement.
Raven's reservations were evident in her expression. "Are you sure we are ready for this?" She asked. Her uncertainty stemmed from their limited mastery of the staff, making the prospect of wielding real swords a cause for apprehension.
"Experience is the best practice." Richard assured them, handing each of them a sword.
Raven sighed, stepping onto the platform and raising her weapon with a note of caution. "Please don't cut me."
"I'll do my best." Garfield responded, adopting a defensive stance. Despite his outward confidence, a subtle apprehension lingered beneath the surface. The prospect of using real swords, especially without having mastered the staff, presented a new and challenging dimension to their training.
Their movements unfolded with a palpable tension, each exhibiting slow and hesitant movements, cautious of the other as they circled continuously. In this delicate dance, every uncertain slash of Garfield's blade was met with Raven's careful and strategic blocks.
"Raven, you're focusing a lot on defense, but not enough on offense." Richard critiqued from the sidelines, his coaching tone cutting through the intensity of the sparring session.
"Unfortunately, I'm not as skilled with the blade as you are, Richard." Raven retorted, her voice carrying a hint of frustration.
"I know you're nervous." Richard acknowledged, his tone empathetic. "But does Garfield look confident in his sword fighting? No."
"Thanks for the encouragement, Dick." Garfield commented sarcastically as he gently swung his sword, only for Raven to block it.
"You can't win a battle with blocking alone." Richard informed her. "You have to counter to have any chance at victory."
Feeling the weight of her leader's guidance, Raven tightened her grip on the sword's handle, the added pressure amplifying the tension in an already charged atmosphere. "Yes, I read the email assignment you provided yesterday." She replied in an agitated tone.
"Then stop stalling and counter!" Richard demanded, his tone becoming more curt and abrupt.
In response to the directive, Raven swiftly swung her blade. However, Richard's sudden outburst had momentarily distracted Garfield, causing a delay in blocking. He backed up hastily, but not quickly enough, as the sharp tip of Raven's sword slashed the top of his leg, the unexpected contact leaving a visible mark on the training session.
"Garfield!" Kori's urgent call resonated through the room, prompting everyone to look down as blood rushed down his pant leg.
Garfield descended slowly to the ground, a mix of surprise and confusion playing across his features as he registered the unexpected injury. The blade had been so sharp that he barely felt the cut. It wasn't until the sight of blood caught his eye that his brain caught up with the situation, and the stinging pain began to set in.
Shocked by her own actions, Raven hastily tossed her weapon aside and knelt beside him. "Gar, I'm so sorry!" She exclaimed, her hands moving with urgency to apply pressure to the bleeding wound.
"It's fine, Rae. It was an accident." Garfield reassured her, attempting to maintain an air of nonchalance, though the concern etched across his face betrayed his true feelings. As he stared at the blood trickling down his leg, he grappled with the sudden realization of the severity of the situation.
"Just keep putting pressure on it." Richard calmly instructed, his authoritative tone cutting through the room. "Kori, grab the first-aid kit."
Kori nodded, rushing across the room with swift efficiency. Raven continued to maintain pressure on Garfield's leg, her disapproving voice cutting through the tense atmosphere. "And this is why I questioned whether we were ready for real weapons!" Her agitation stemmed not just from the injury itself but also from the visible blood covering her hands, serving as a stark reminder of the wound she had unintentionally inflicted.
"Sometimes, you have to learn from experience." Richard informed her, his measured tone acknowledging the harsh reality of their training.
"Wonderful." Garfield drawled, his expression tightening with the escalating pain.
"Richard, we aren't cut out for this. We've been training for over a year, and we can barely handle offense." Raven spoke apprehensively, her voice carrying the weight of doubt as she expressed her reservations to their leader.
However, as she continued to voice her concerns to Richard, a subtle transformation unfolded beneath her hands. "Um... Rae..." Garfield spoke, his gaze fixed questioningly on her hands as they started to emit a soft, white glow.
"Raven, you have to give yourself more credit. You two have come a long way." Richard said, directing his gaze at her with a meaningful expression, acknowledging the progress they had made.
"Rae..."
"But is it enough to be a hero?" Raven asked, her uncertainty directed at Richard.
"Raven!" Garfield's urgent yell sliced through the tension, causing their attention to abruptly be redirected to him.
Startled by the glowing light emanating from her hands, Raven abruptly yanked her hands away and quickly got up. She took a step back, her eyes wide with alarm as she stared at her palms, questioning the mysterious white radiance that was once there.
From the ground, Richard and Garfield watched in shock as the once-bleeding wound miraculously disappeared, leaving the cut pantleg as the only indication that an injury was once there.
"You healed it?" Garfield said in astonishment, his hands moving around his leg to confirm the absence of the wound.
"Did you do that on purpose?" Richard asked, turning his gaze back to Raven, curiosity etched across his face.
Raven's breathing remained shallow as she stared at her hands and then back at her friends before shaking her head, a mix of awe and uncertainty in her expression.
"Cool." Garfield smiled. The revelation was not only surprising but also impressive. "We got a doctor in the house." He mused, getting off the floor.
Richard, absorbing the unexpected turn of events, got up as well, his fingers lightly touching his chin in contemplation. "This honestly explains a lot."
"How so?" Raven questioned, her anxiety still lingering in her voice, a hint of vulnerability coloring her words.
"All those times you should have been injured, or well... dead, and you didn't have a scratch on you." Richard elaborated, connecting the dots with a thoughtful expression, shedding light on the mystery surrounding Raven's seemingly invulnerable nature and leaving the room in a contemplative silence.
Raven grabbed her arm uncomfortably at the mere thought of acquiring a new power. She had no desire for additional abilities. How could she hope to control a new power when she could barely manage the ones she was currently grappling with?
Overwhelmed by her thoughts, she released a long breath in an attempt to calm herself. However, the weight of the situation proved too much, prompting her to turn abruptly on her heel and depart from the room, leaving the boys exchanging questioning glances in her wake.
Richard, taking the initiative, swiftly followed after her. "Raven..." He called, his voice echoing through the corridor as he rushed out of the training room. Sprinting down the hall, he passed corners and corridors until he caught up with her at the end. "Raven." He spoke calmly, observing her struggle to control her anxious breathing. "This isn't a bad thing."
She furrowed her brow, irritation etching her features at his unwavering positivity. "No, it's just another power I don't have control over."
"You just need to learn how to control it, like you have with the others," Richard reassured her, his tone radiating confidence. "You have done so well controlling your powers this past year. And just because you haven't fully mastered them doesn't mean you don't have control over them. You've made amazing progress!"
Choosing to disregard her leader's optimistic outlook, Raven continued to walk away.
Richard quickly grabbed her shoulder, compelling her to stop. "Raven." He said, his tone firm, forcing her to face him. "I don't think you understand how incredible this is. You can heal!" He locked eyes with her. "You can reverse your own damage."
Raven suppressed an eye roll at the thought, opting instead for a small huff of acknowledgment. While she acknowledged the usefulness of such a trait, she couldn't shake the uncomfortable reality that there was yet another power she needed to master. The prospect also stirred concerns that she might have other undiscovered abilities.
"Everything is going to be fine." Richard said with a reassuring smile. "Now please come back to the combat room. I have a surprise for everyone."
"Because that's just what I need right now, more surprises." Raven responded with a quiet murmur. Despite her reluctance, she allowed Richard to guide her back into the room, her mind still swirling with uncertainty and unease.
As Raven and Richard re-entered the combat room, they were met with an atmosphere charged with excitement, heightened by Kori's enthusiastic welcome. "Raven!" She exclaimed, gracefully flying up to her. "Garfield has informed me of your new gift!"
"Yeah, gift... that's one way of wording it." Raven responded, her lingering doubts casting a shadow over her tone.
"Are you okay?" Garfield inquired, approaching them. "You seem upset."
"As good as I can be, considering I am now dealing with yet another unwanted ability." Raven answered, a subtle sigh escaping her lips.
"Yeah, but healing is a lot less scary than that dark energy stuff you usually deal with." Garfield tried to inject a note of levity. However, judging by the pointed glare he received from Raven, his attempt at humor fell flat.
"Anyway..." Richard interjected, diverting their attention. "I have a surprise for you guys." He announced, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.
Walking over to a table tucked in the corner, Richard picked up four elegantly locked cases, each bearing the recipient's name engraved on it. With deliberate care, he carried the cases back to the group.
"What's this?" Kori asked, her curiosity apparent, as Richard handed each of them a case.
"Uniforms." Richard replied, a sense of pride in his voice.
Garfield's eyes widened with unabashed excitement. "No fricken way!" He exclaimed. "We got our superhero costumes!"
"Uniforms." Richard reiterated with a gentle correction before gesturing towards the bathrooms. "Now go and see how well they fit."
The room buzzed with anticipation as Kori and Garfield glanced at one another before excitedly sprinting to the bathrooms to change.
Richard couldn't help but smile as he observed the contagious enthusiasm spreading through the room. The sight of their excitement brought back memories of the first time he received his Robin uniform, the thrill of trying it on for the very first time etched vividly in his mind. However, his joy was momentarily dampened as he turned to the person standing beside him, who appeared less than thrilled with the idea of donning a uniform. "What's wrong?" He inquired, his gaze fixed on Raven.
Setting aside the unease that already gripped her, Raven found the prospect of wearing a spandex costume less than enjoyable. "Do I really seem like the costume type?" She questioned skeptically.
"It's a uniform." Richard corrected once again. "And it doesn't hurt to try it. Remember, none of this is forced upon you."
With a resigned sigh, Raven made her way towards the bathrooms, reaching the door just in time for Kori to walk out. Raven briefly halted, her eyes immediately drawn to the alien's skin-tight, metallic purple one-piece. Kori's uniform was very slimming, accentuating her womanly curves and leaving very little to the imagination. While Kori seemed ecstatic about her uniform, it only heightened Raven's apprehension about what her own case might contain.
Kori skipped forward, her excitement on full display. Performing a small twirl, she eagerly approached Richard. "What do you think?" She asked, enthusiasm lacing her voice.
Richard admired the formfitting uniform, appreciating how stunning it looked on her. "It looks amazing." He complimented. "Does it fit well? Can you move comfortably in it?"
Kori nodded enthusiastically. "It fits perfectly." She affirmed, demonstrating her ease of movement with a spin on the toes of her thigh-high boots.
Richard paced around Kori, his eyes carefully tracing the contours of her new uniform, appreciating the meticulous craftsmanship. The vibrant colors and sleek design were perfectly tailored for her. "It's a flexible, fire-resistant fabric. The gauntlets are made from a powerful metal, stronger than steel. And the boots are high to protect the legs and knees." He explained, stepping back to take in the entire ensemble, his gaze lingering on the person wearing it. "You look beautiful."
The sudden interjection of Garfield's enthusiastic voice drew attention as he emerged from the men's room, clad in a red and white suit. "And I look awesome!" He declared, though a hint of self-consciousness crept in. "Though it's a little... shapely..." He added, turning his head to get a glimpse of his backside.
Amused, Richard couldn't help but smirk. "Welcome to the world of spandex."
"And how come I don't get a cape?" Garfield questioned, examining his attire. "Or shoes for that matter?"
Approaching the changeling, Richard crossed his arms while inspecting the unique uniform. "Your uniform was very tricky. They had to combine a mixture of your DNA and an organic substance to create a fabric that could morph with you when you transform."
Garfield responded with a puzzled expression upon learning this piece of information. "When did you get my DNA?"
Richard casually brushed off the question. "Not important. Can you morph?"
Garfield eagerly accepted the challenge, stretching his arms before gracefully getting down on all fours, initiating his transformation into a wolf. Richard was impressed and Kori was amazed as they witnessed the seamless disappearance of the uniform, replaced by vibrant green fur.
Garfield, in his animal form, circled around to inspect himself before morphing back, the uniform remarkably reappearing intact. "Sweet." He grinned before looking down at his feet. "But the lack of shoes?" He questioned, lifting his barefoot for emphasis.
"The fabric is very hard to make. Frankly, you're lucky you even have a shirt." Richard explained, conveying the complexity of Garfield's unique uniform. "You'll just have to wear your regular tennis shoes."
"Is that why I didn't get any cool accessories? Garfield asked, his voice carrying a hint of childish melancholy. "No gauntlets, no gloves, not even a belt?"
"You shouldn't need all those things. They will just weigh you down. And again, limited fabric to work with." Richard responded, offering a practical explanation to the disappointed changeling.
"What about a mask?" Garfield questioned further. "How will I protect my secret identity?"
"What secret identity are you trying to hide?" Richard asked, regarding the changeling with an amused tone.
"Fine." Garfield huffed, his disappointment apparent. "At least now I got pants."
"And you look amazing." Kori chimed in, clasping her hands together with genuine excitement.
"Thanks. But doesn't the color clash a little with... me?" Garfield questioned, scrutinizing his appearance with a self-conscious gaze.
"I think the red and white looks nice." Kori complimented, injecting a touch of assurance into Garfield's momentary insecurity, her genuine enthusiasm contributing to the positive atmosphere in the room.
"The designers picked the colors. They knew fully well what color you are, so they must think the red compliments you." Richard explained, a hint of amusement in his tone as he gestured towards Garfield. "But if you want to call and complain, I'm sure they would love to hear that you're not thrilled about the color they had to make with their hours of hard work on an organic uniform."
"No, no... the colors are fine... Sheesh." Garfield shrugged his shoulders as Raven gradually walked out of the women's room.
"Richard, I'm not sure how I feel about this." Raven spoke, her voice tinged with uncertainty as she unconsciously retreated behind the protective folds of the dark blue cloak.
Excitement filled Kory as she quickly ran up to Raven, her anticipation of seeing her uniform provoking the alien to yank open the cloak, revealing the slimming high-split dress. "What do you mean, Raven? You look so good, and it really shows that sexy little figure of yours."
Mortified, Raven swiftly yanked the fabric from Kori and closed it around her once more. "It's too revealing."
"It's just something you're not used to." Richard explained, stepping closer to offer reassurance. "It's actually not as revealing as it may feel. And considering most uniforms, it's actually quite modest. The high slit of the dress will help with your range in motion. The high boots will protect your legs and knees, and the long gloves will safeguard your arms and elbows. I made sure to convey that you would prefer to be as covered as possible."
Raven tightened the cloak around her, attempting to find any positive aspects of the new uniform. "Well, at least I can hide behind the cloak." She spoke, tucking herself back behind the dark blue fabric.
"Speaking of which..." Garfield intervened, dramatically gesturing towards Raven. "WHY DOES SHE GET A CAPE?!"
Disregarding the outburst, Kori glanced down, the fourth case in Richard's hand catching her eye. "Whose is that?" She asked, her curiosity clear in her voice.
Richard sighed, an unconscious grip forming around the case's handle. "It's mine."
"Dude, you got new threads!" Garfield exclaimed, his excitement palpable.
"Well, come on, Richard. Let's see!" Kori encouraged, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.
Richard shook his head. "When the time's right." He informed them, a hint of mystery in his voice. "Now let's go have lunch. And after that, we can break in the new uniforms with a patrol."
"Patrol?" Kori questioned, her expression shifting to a mix of curiosity and excitement.
"Wait? Like going out in the streets?" Garfield asked, his anticipation building into excitement.
Richard nodded. "I think it's about time you get your feet wet. Training is one thing, but real-life experience is another."
...
Richard drove steadily down the city streets, his natural eyes on high alert for anything out of line. He preferred patrolling at night. That was when trouble tended to arise. However, he knew he couldn't jump right in with this team, recognizing the need to gradually integrate his team into this routine. Today marked the team's first city patrol, and while excitement bubbled in some, others harbored reservations.
Noticeably uncomfortable, Raven subtly adjusted her cloak, covering her exposed thigh. Her gaze shifted slowly out the window, eyes tracing the serene and quiet downtown city streets. Below, citizens carried on with their daily mundane lives, blissfully unaware of the vigilant eyes that watched over them. The tranquility outside stood in stark contrast to the apprehension within the car, where the impending patrol loomed heavy on Raven's mind.
The pace of events felt fast, too fast for Raven's comfort. Kori and Garfield might argue that this moment had been long overdue, but Raven disagreed. The morning's training session just proved how unprepared she was. Feeling unqualified for fieldwork, she doubted her ability to act on her feet. The fear lingered that if something went wrong, she would just make things worse.
"Red and green just seem kind of Christmassy." Garfield persisted in his critique, studying his uniform from the backseat.
"Are you still talking about that?" Richard retorted, his focus remaining on the road.
"Do you see my ears?" Garfield asked, unnecessarily gesturing to them. "Last thing I want is to be known as the Christmas Elf hero."
"They probably picked red because it's the opposite of green on the color wheel." Raven interjected, offering her perspective.
Garfield glanced down at himself once more, pondering this new information. "Oh... When you put it like that, it doesn't look so bad."
Interrupting the moment, the shrill vibration of Richard's phone pierced the air, its relentless alarm capturing everyone's attention. With swift precision, Richard retrieved it from his pocket, his eyes narrowing at the urgent message displayed on the screen. "There's a bank robbery." He announced, his voice firm, as he quickly plugged the coordinates into his car's GPS system.
"Wow, really?!" Garfield exclaimed with a mix of excitement and anticipation, leaning forward from the back seat.
"Not really something you should be excited about." Raven commented bleakly, her voice carrying a sharp edge.
"Shush, don't rain on my parade." Garfield retorted, shooting her a quick glare, determined to maintain his enthusiasm despite the impending situation.
"Now I need you all to keep a level head." Richard instructed sternly, the atmosphere in the car shifting from casual banter to focused readiness as he sped through the intersection.
"Great." Raven remarked, her sarcastic tone carrying a hint of apprehension.
"Never go into something like this without a plan." Richard emphasized, his eyes reflecting a blend of seriousness and determination that resonated with the gravity of the situation.
"Awesome. So, what's the plan, Boss?" Garfield eagerly inquired, leaning in with noticeable anticipation, ready to absorb the details of the forthcoming mission.
"Once we arrive, I will sneak us inside the building." Richard began, redirecting his attention to the person in the passenger seat. "Kori, I want you to be the distraction. Make your arrival very apparent. Get the attention of the robbers by announcing yourself as a hero. Being that no one knows of you yet, they shouldn't take you seriously."
"They will think you're just some wanna-be hero." Garfield added, contributing to the clarification of the strategic approach.
"Gar." Richard said, addressing him directly. "You are in charge of civilians. Sneak in while the robbers are distracted, and help the hostages escape unnoticed."
"Got it, Boss!" Garfield responded with renewed excitement.
"And Raven, you will help detain. Once the hostages are freed, you will be in charge of disarming the criminals." Richard continued, assigning roles with calculated precision.
"And what about you?" Raven asked, her skepticism evident.
"I need you guys not to rely on me. I'm not in uniform for a reason. I will sneak in with Gar, and disguise myself as a hostage. But I will be there to help if anything goes wrong." Richard finished, meeting Raven's apprehensive gaze in the rear-view mirror, his expression revealing a mix of confidence and understanding. The car surged forward, heading toward the scene of the unfolding crisis as the team mentally prepared for their first real-world mission.
Richard expertly maneuvered the car into a discreet spot, ensuring it was far enough from the bank to avoid detection. The team, now hidden behind the building, gathered around as he adeptly picked the locked door, granting them silent entry into the building.
Once inside, they swiftly assessed the situation. Five armed men, dressed entirely in black, were orchestrating the robbery. Two of them were furiously stuffing bags with cash at the back, while another stood guard over the hostages—twelve frightened individuals huddled in a corner. The remaining two kept watchful eyes on the front door.
After receiving a silent nod from Richard, Kori made her move, confidently stepping forward and presenting herself to the armed men. The sudden intrusion startled the robbers, prompting them to point their guns at her. But facing firearms was nothing new for the alien, and she maintained her composure.
Kori, with a calm demeanor, took deliberate steps forward, her posture radiating confidence despite the tense situation. The dim light of the room flickered overhead, casting shadows on her determined expression. Richard, observing from the shadows, subtly signaled his approval with a silent nod, acknowledging her decision to take charge.
As Kori approached, the air in the room seemed to grow heavier. The armed men, caught off guard by the unexpected move, hastily redirected their attention towards her. The metallic clicks of their weapons echoed in the silence, creating an ominous atmosphere. The cold, unwavering barrels of their guns were now aimed directly at Kori, emphasizing the gravity of the confrontation.
Kori, however, remained unfazed. Her past had accustomed her to facing adversities, and the presence of firearms did little to shake her resolve. She stood tall, and her eyes locked onto the masked figures before her. "I need you guys to surrender." She calmly stated.
Richard watched from the shadows, his trust in Kori's ability to navigate this perilous encounter evident in the approving glint of his eyes. The room hung in suspense, a delicate balance between confrontation and resolution, as the fate of the encounter rested on Kori's ability to maintain her composure amidst the pointed barrels and uncertain intentions.
The men exchanged uncertain glances, their eyes flickering between each other before settling back on Kori. The fluorescent lights overhead highlighted the skepticism etched on their masked faces.
"And why would we do that?" One of them challenged, his voice dripping with skepticism and defiance.
Kori, momentarily caught off guard by the direct question, blinked. The weight of the confrontation settled on her shoulders, and she felt the eyes of the armed men piercing through her resolve. "Because... I am a hero." She responded steadily but with a hint of internal struggle. She took a deliberate step forward, attempting to assert herself confidently in the face of adversity. "And... I've come to stop you villains." Her attempt to convey determination masked a subtle hesitation, a vulnerability that betrayed the facade of unwavering confidence. The reality of the situation had caught up with her, and uncertainty crept into her expression. Did she say the right things? Was she making things worse? It was so hard to know when Earth's customs were an ongoing puzzle. Although Kori had entered the room with a sense of assurance, the unexpected challenge from the armed men left her grappling with the complexities of the moment.
"A hero, eh? We ain't buying it. What's your game, lady?" Another masked figure challenged, skepticism distinct in his masked eyes.
Kori, still struggling to maintain her composure, found herself on the spot. The challenge in the man's voice was a hurdle she hadn't anticipated. She took a moment, gathering her thoughts, and then spoke with conviction. "I'm here to protect innocent lives, to ensure that justice prevails. If you surrender now, you might find a way to atone for your actions."
The men chuckled, the tension momentarily breaking as they exchanged amused glances. "Justice, huh? We're not exactly fans of the justice system." One of them scoffed. "And who says you can just waltz in here and stop us?"
Kori, feeling the weight of the situation, struggled to find the right words. "I understand you might have your reasons, but this path leads to consequences that affect not just you, but others as well. Surrender peacefully, and we can find a way to resolve this without anyone getting hurt."
The leader of the masked criminals laughed, a harsh sound that echoed through the room. "You think we're just gonna give up because you said so? Nice try, hero, but we've got our own plans."
As Kori continued to negotiate, the uncertainty within her grew. The reality of facing armed criminals, each with their motivations and disregard for the law, was proving to be a more intricate challenge than she had initially anticipated. The men, however, remained defiant, their expressions a blend of skepticism and defiance.
Richard, still a silent observer from the shadows, maintained unwavering confidence in Kori's abilities. However, he understood that the resolution of this tense situation relied on more than just Kori's words. With a subtle nod, he signaled to Garfield, urging him to join in their covert efforts. The pair stealthily moved towards the hostages, taking advantage of the distraction caused by Kori's bold confrontation.
As they approached the captives, the criminals in the room couldn't resist mocking Kori's heroics. "So you think you're a hero, huh?" One sneered.
While another chimed in. "Then how come I haven't seen you before?"
"She must be another wanna-be." Someone added dismissively.
"My words exactly." Garfield whispered, catching wind of the banter, his comment earning a stern glare from Richard.
"Focus." Richard reminded him, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
Meanwhile, the criminal's attention remained fixated on Kori, oblivious to the stealthy movements of Richard and Garfield. The duo positioned themselves discreetly next to the frightened hostages, with Garfield placing a finger to his lips to ensure their silence. "Don't worry." He whispered reassuringly. "The Titans are here."
Confusion filled the air as one of the hostages questioned. "Who?"
Surprised by the lack of recognition, Garfield responded swiftly. "The Titans. You know, the amazing superhero team."
Richard, sensing the need to redirect the situation, intervened with a hushed reminder. "Focus." He whispered from the back of the crowd.
Letting go of the comment, Garfield quickly moved to the task at hand. "Never mind. I am here to get you out."
However, another curious hostage couldn't resist speaking up. "Why do you look like that?"
Frustration flashed across Garfield's face as he stared at the civilian. "Are you kidding? This is not the time. Now, follow me if you want to live."
Richard couldn't help but roll his eyes behind his sunglasses at the exchange. He struggled to maintain his own patience, grappling with Garfield's lack of professionalism. The situation demanded precision and focus, yet Garfield's banter and impromptu responses tested Richard's ability to keep a level head. Despite the urgency of the rescue mission, Richard found himself caught between the need for efficiency and the exasperating distractions caused by his teammate's unconventional approach.
"Did you just quote Terminator?" Someone asked.
"What?" Garfield responded, taken aback by the question. "No, I mean... just follow me." He said in frustration, gesturing urgently for the civilians to keep pace as they embarked on their escape.
Garfield quickly assisted each person to their feet before quietly guiding them to the back of the bank and out through the rear door. As soon as the last person safely entered the alley, Garfield gave a thumbs up to Raven.
Seeing the signal, Raven took a deep breath before turning to the armed men. She then turned to Kori, surprised that she was still able to distract them with her nonsense small talk.
"Look, Sweetheart, I don't think you're cut out for such a big job like being a hero." One of the criminals remarked, attempting to undermine Kori's confidence.
Kori couldn't help but frown, her vulnerability momentarily resurfacing. "Why not?" She questioned, battling to keep her composure despite the criminal's attempt to shake her resolve.
"It's a very dangerous job. I mean, none of us would hesitate to shoot you right now." The robber continued, emphasizing the perilous nature of the situation.
Trying to deflect from the seriousness of the threat, Kori shifted the direction of the conversation, putting on an innocent façade. "You would shoot me?" She asked, batting her eyes and puckering her bottom lip.
Meanwhile, Raven tried to focus on her surroundings. Inhaling deeply, she summoned the dark energy within her, feeling the raw power coursing through her veins. The air around her crackled with an otherworldly intensity as she allowed the shadows to seep out, tendrils of dark energy swirling around her like an ethereal cloak.
With a deliberate grace, Raven guided each strand of power to the floor, the dark tendrils moving silently, and with a serpentine elegance, they slithered behind each criminal. The room seemed to pulse with an ominous energy, an unspoken warning of the impending intervention about to unfold.
Her timing had to be perfect, to ensure that she could disarm them all in one swift motion. Raven, attuned to the ebb and flow of her own mystical energies, carefully calculated the moment to strike. The dark strands moved with a calculated purpose, closing in on the criminals with an almost sentient awareness.
The criminals, unaware of the dark forces silently encircling them, continued to focus on Kori and her distracting banter. Raven, however, operated in the shadows, her powers ready to enact a seamless disarmament that required split-second precision.
Amidst Kori's diversion, one of the robbers, unable to contain his disdain for her naivety, rolled his eyes. Suddenly, his attention was caught by something in his peripheral vision. "What the hell is that?!" He yelled, pointing his gun as the dark energy slowly reached for his colleague's weapon.
Raven seized the opportunity, thrusting her power forward. She successfully yanked as many weapons as she could out of the criminal's hands, but the challenge was formidable, and two men managed to evade her grasp, retaining their guns. The room teetered on the edge of chaos as the confrontation shifted from words to a dangerous dance of power and weaponry.
"Uh, oh." Garfield muttered, seeing the shift in the situation, and without hesitation, he sprang into action.
Realizing they had been played, the two masked men who were engaged in Kori turned angrily towards her. However, before the one with the weapon could raise it, Kori moved with lightning speed. With surprising precision, she swiftly punched the criminal in the face, delivering a harsh blow that caught him off guard. Despite her earlier obstacle in distracting them with words, Kori seamlessly transitioned to a display of confidence and skill in physical combat.
In a fluid motion, she disarmed the man, effortlessly taking the gun from his hands. With a swift and controlled movement, Kori bent the weapon over her knee, showcasing not only her physical prowess but also her ability to neutralize a threat with finesse.
Seeing his colleague in trouble, the second man retaliated by swinging his fist at the redhead. However, she adeptly ducked, evading the punch. In the blink of an eye, Richard appeared on the scene, his presence unexpected yet timely. With a confident smirk, he intercepted the incoming fist, catching it in his firm grip. The man's eyes widened in surprise as Richard smirked at him before delivering a punch to his masked face.
The two men guarding the doors moved quickly to intervene, but before they could reach the unfolding chaos, a beastly roar echoed through the room, freezing them in their tracks. Their attention snapped towards the source, only to find a large bear charging towards them. Without the safety of their weapons, the men reluctantly raised their hands in surrender as the imposing bear backed them up against the wall.
Raven, positioned at the back of the bank, observed the scene unfold. However, as she counted the opponents her friends were engaged with, the realization that one was missing came to her just as a blunt object struck her in the back of her head. She dropped to her knees, disoriented, as the man behind her snickered. Confidently turning his weapon around, he aimed it at her. Yet, as he watched her slowly turn her head to face him, he was not expecting her eyes to be glowing red.
The man's eyes widened in fear as the 'so-called hero' angrily gritted her teeth and swiftly got back to her feet, her menacing red eyes fixated on him. Nervously taking a step back, he dropped his gun and shakily raised his hands in surrender.
"Pitiful human, do you have any idea who you are dealing with?" Raven's dark, foreboding voice filled the air, sending the man cowering to his knees. "Your mind can't even comprehend the power I wield." With a flick of her wrist, her powers seized all the weapons in the room, bringing them to her like a magnetic force. Another flick directed them towards the man, aiming at his head. The man began to cry, pleading for his life.
Richard, seeing the unfolding situation, yelled in desperation and rushed towards Raven. "RAVEN, NO!"
With a sharp gasp, Raven's eyes shifted back to their normal hue, the red glow dissipating as she regained control of herself in a swift and jarring manner. A mixture of surprise and confusion played across her features as she looked down at the trembling man by her feet, grappling with the reality of her own actions.
As Raven quickly scanned the room, she noticed everyone staring at her in alarm. Despite her friend's expressions reflecting more concern than fear, she couldn't shake the unsettling feeling. The undercurrent of their gaze weighed on her. Doubt and self-reflection clouded her mind as she wrestled with the implications of her untamed powers, questioning her place in the midst of the chaotic confrontation. And in that moment, all she could think about was how she knew she wasn't cut out for this.
...
Back at the Tower, Raven wasted no time retreating to the sanctuary of her room. The heavy door closed behind her, shutting out the outside world and allowing her a moment of respite from the chaos that unfolded earlier. In a swift motion, she began to strip out of her objectifying uniform.
As the last article of clothing fell to the floor, a momentary sense of relief washed over her. The physical weight of the uniform lifted, and the oppressive sensation of being confined in its objectifying design dissipated. However, this moment of reprieve proved to be fleeting, as the echoes of the recent events clung to her like an intangible cloak.
The emotional residue of the encounter lingered, refusing to be discarded as easily as the uniform. The memories of the struggle, the unpredictability of the situation, and the constant battle to control her powers replayed in her mind. The sense of relief transformed into a haunting awareness that, despite shedding the physical costume, the emotional weight of the day's events still pressed heavily on her shoulders.
Seated on the edge of her bed, the events at the bank replayed in her mind, leaving an indelible mark on her psyche. While not entirely surprising, the incident underscored the ongoing struggle she faced in maintaining control over her formidable powers and, more importantly, over herself.
She may have defeated her father, but despite her victory, the lingering darkness within her served as a constant reminder that she would never be entirely free from his influence.
A soft knock on the door interrupted her contemplation, prompting her to turn as Richard cautiously peeked inside. "Raven?" He inquired, concern evident in his voice.
"Don't try to make me feel better." She responded, rising from her bed. "It will just be a waste of time."
Undeterred, Richard entered her room with measured steps. "I know you're upset about today."
"That's an understatement." She retorted, her eyes reflecting a storm of conflicting emotions.
"Do I need to remind you of all the progress you've made?" Richard asked, his tone exhibiting his encouragement and understanding.
Raven rolled her eyes, a gesture betraying both frustration and resignation. "Today just proved whatever progress you are referring to has been flushed down the drain."
Richard shook his head in gentle disagreement before taking a seat on her bed. "That's not what I see." He told her, his gaze holding a reassuring sincerity. "Today was a series of firsts for everyone. It was your first time handling real weapons, your first time donning a uniform, your first time out in the field. You dealt with a real and unpredictable situation. Yes, there were a few bumps in the road..." Raven shot him a pointed glare, silently challenging the understatement of those 'bumps.' "But think of the bigger outcome. All the criminals got captured. All the hostages were freed. And more importantly, there were no fatalities. Now, I call that a successful day." He finished with a confident and encouraging smile.
Raven sighed, the weight of the day's events still heavy on her shoulders. "Have you considered that the outcome might have been better if I hadn't gotten involved? Then there wouldn't have been any slip-ups." She mused aloud, voicing the self-doubt that gnawed at her.
Richard met her gaze with a compassionate understanding, his tone gentle yet firm. "You do know that you're not the only one who had some slip-ups today, right?" His words carried a subtle reassurance. "Gar had a hell of a time staying focused, and Kori struggled with improvisation when it came to distracting the criminals. There was pressure on everyone."
Raven turned away, her eyes betraying a mix of vulnerability and introspection. "I guess it's hard to feel other's anxiety when I'm so busy feeling my own."
"They're just as new to this as you are." Richard reminded her, his voice serving as a steady anchor in the storm of uncertainty. "So cut yourself some slack."
...