Little One, Little Danger
(The Revision)

Chapter 26:
The Rescue

Aqualad eased the sub near an underwater facility that was rooted into the seafloor. His scanners detected a forcefield surrounding it so there was no way he'd force his way through. It was indeed suspicious but there was no indication that the place was a threat. Though the sonic waves did raise a red flag. Aqualad thought to himself briefly and thought of something. He unhooked himself from the pilot's seat, "Starfire, wait here."

"What are you going to do?" She raised a brow.

"A place this big just might have a secret entrance and I know the only ones who can help in figuring that out." He grinned as he pushed a button beneath his feet, "You might want to hold your breath for a moment."

The girl nodded and did as she was told before an opening within the bottom of the sub was triggered. It was only big enough for one person to slip through and water immediately rushed in. Aqualad went through and the opening sealed itself once again. The vents then drained the water from the cockpit and Starfire released the hold on her breath. She looked out to see the boy swim by but briefly stopped in front of her view, giving her a thumbs up. Star knew that we was wondering if she was okay so she nodded with a smile. Aqualad then turned away from her, attention towards the emptiness of the expanse of the sea; he sent out a telekinetic wave in all directions. He laid in wait for several moments without a reply before sending out another at a higher frequency. Not too soon afterwards, he felt a shift in the current that caught his attention. He closed his eyes to concentrate on the oncoming presence, trying to sense where'd they come from. There. Aqualad opened his eyes and turned his head to the west. A shadow-like figure was making its way through the water just like a native to the environment.

As it approached the size of the figure grew and its appearance was almost recognizable to Aqualad. A frilled shark stopped several feet away from the teen who was keeping himself afloat. The boy couldn't remember the last time he had a conversation with one but he knew that he didn't care for them. It wasn't like he had a choice so he would make do with the help he could get. His thoughts filled with the shark's wonderment if whether or not Aqualad was the one who sent out a call of distress. He responded through his telekinesis, "Yes my friend. I was concerned about the facility ahead." Aqualad pointed in the place's direction and the shark turned its attention there before focusing back on Aqualad. The shark was familiar with the facility which brought a smile to the boy's face. "Do you know of an entrance?" Apparently the creature was old in years with a bad memory, which might've disappointed Aqualad if it didn't mention an opening on the east side. There was a submerged metal transport that was activated by a marble of some kind which the shark seemed to have had back in its living area. Aqualad was a bit shocked but asked if the shark wouldn't mind letting him borrow the marble.

The shark swam off quickly and the boy turned around to check on Starfire once again. The girl was wringing out her uniform top which she removed unbeknownst to him. Aqualad immediately turned away, a light blush across his cheeks. He figured she had no choice since her uniform wasn't really water resistant but she had to consider that he'd turn around at some point right? He shook the thought out. Why did it matter? The air around them was awkward now and they even rode all the way here in silence. This wasn't what he wanted and what happened between them was a moment of weakness on both their parts. In their current emotional state and the fact that they were still hung up on Robin and Raven…there was no way he and Starfire could become romantically involved. She was a dear friend and she deserved better. Star was so adaptive which made her smart. Caring which made her wonderful. Attractive which made her desirable.

Aqualad turned his head slightly and saw that she had her top back on and was now resting against the pilot seat. How could anyone deny her? How could Robin…? His thoughts became clouded with the memory of their little make-out session. If he had to be honest…he enjoyed it and he hated himself for it. He probably would've hated himself more if they would've taken it further. Just the thought of it…kind of turned him on but disgusted him as well. Aqualad ran his hand through his water-flowing hair feeling ashamed of himself and his actions. If Starfire felt like a bad person because of how she felt about her friends…then what would that make him?

The current shifted in the water again and broke him of his thoughts, grasping his attention. Approaching was the frilled shark again this time with something in its mouth as it stopped a little closer to him. Aqualad thanked the creature and retrieved the small glass object carefully, a smile on his face. Before he made his leave however, the shark warned him that the facility used to be occupied by a dangerous female human named Sephora years ago. Though now, someone else named Kida resided there who had a helper and this person brought in another female human who was unmoving. Kida. Why did that name sound so familiar? Aqualad asked the shark for a description of the unconscious woman brought within the facility. The creature turned to leave but gave him the description. Skin as pale as the sand at the bottom of the sea. Hair wavy like the ocean waves and darkly vibrant like some coral. Clothed with something as dark as the night sky and a gem that rested in the middle of her face. The shark then swam away.

Aqualad's heart begun to race as he thought to himself and dwelled on the given description. Raven? It sounded like her but what would she be doing in Tokyo? Not only that but who would want to capture her? As he trailed along in his thoughts, he forgot to keep himself afloat so he began to sink towards the bottom of the sea. Could she have perhaps come to see Robin? The thought agitated him. But if that were the case, why would she be held up in some creepy underwater base? Not to mention, the girl was a skilled fighter so whoever got the best of her must be strong. But the one in charge…Kida?

"No. Kida's just a friend I made out here."

He suddenly remembered Robin's words from earlier and his eyes widened. The woman he was hanging around with that evening. It couldn't be a coincidence could it? Aqualad stopped himself from descending and swam back up towards the sub. He signaled for Starfire to hold her breath again and once he was certain she did, he swam under the vehicle and triggered a sensor to activate the opening again. He entered through and back into the sub with the opening sealing behind him. As the water drained and Starfire sigh from getting wet again, she addressed him, "Any news?"

Aqualad hopped into the pilot's seat, "Yeah, more than I thought." He hit some buttons on the control panel.

"What's wrong?"

"It seems like the owner of the building might be holding Raven captive."

Starfire's eyes widened, "W-What? Raven in…h-how is that possible. She and friend Cyborg were back at the tower when I left."

"Well something must've happened and my shark friend down there gave a pretty good description which basically matches Raven's."

Starfire grew silent because the last time she saw the girl was right after their fight on the tower's roof. Now Aqualad was informing her that her friend could be in danger? She felt both sad and guilty as her chest grew tight. "W-Who would do such a thing?"

"Get this…" Aqualad snickered, "…Kida."

"Kida?" Starfire knew the woman's face all too well, "You mean, Robin's friend?"

"Could be. That's the only person that comes to mind and it can't be a coincidence."

Starfire looked at the facility, "Did the shark tell you how to get in?"

"With this." Aqualad placed the marble in her hand.

She looked down at the small object a bit confused, "Is this not used to play the jacks?"

"Yes." He smirked, "But apparently it's being used for a different purpose." Aqualad navigated the sub towards the facility.

{ }

2:00am…

A green falcon landed on the roof of a random hotel in Tokyo. Not too far behind followed someone who landed just beside it. Beastboy morphed back into his normal form and Raiden gave him a thumbs up. "See, that wasn't too bad."

He stretched, "Yeah, easy for you to say."

"Hey, we made it. That's all that matt—" The girl suddenly felt lightheaded and stumbled a bit on the verge of collapsing. Beastboy reacted quickly and helped her, holding her in his arms.

"Yeah, well our health matters too."

She smiled at him weakly with a light blush across her cheeks, "I guess the flight did take a bit of a toll on me." Raiden got to her feet with his help, her arm around his shoulder.

"Maybe your body just needs to adjust to the sudden age change." He led them to the roof's exit as she agreed with him. "How about we grab some grub?"
She smiled, "Sounds good to me."

~o~

Moments later…

The two sat at a table within the hotel's in-house restaurant. Though it was past the "open" hours, the chef was apparently a fan of Beastboy and offered a complimentary meal which the boy was happy to accept. Raiden was a bit hesitant but he convinced her that things like free stuff happened all the time for the Titans. She narrowed her eyes at him because she distinctly remembered her dad saying that even though they were offered gifts, the Titans never accepted them. Her stomach growled slightly; it wouldn't hurt to accept just this once. As they waited for their meals and sipped on their beverages, she noticed how quiet and empty the hotel seemed. Sure, it was late, but wouldn't a guest or two still be lingering near or around the lobby?

"It's so quiet here."

"No duh." Beastboy grinned, "It's like two in the morning. I'd be asleep too if I could." Raiden's stomach growled again and she blushed a bit embarrassed. His grin grew, "Don't worry, food shouldn't too much longer."

Raiden smiled, "Well that's a relief and to think that my first date experience would be with you."

The boy nearly choked on his soda, "Whoa whoa whoa! Let's be clear, this is NOT a date. Dang, if Robin and Raven heard that, I'd be dead in a heartbeat." He snapped his fingers.

"Aw come on. You practically let me lean on you all the way down here just like a gentleman. Your arm was around my waist and everything." She teased in a playful whine.

Beastboy blushed, "L-Look you, that was only to support your weight so you wouldn't fall over."

"Sure." She winked, "Whatever helps you sleep at night."

His eye twitched, "Where do you get this stuff?" The girl then burst into laughter and he could only stare at her a bit confused and a little annoyed. However, the longer he focused on her the more he found her behavior kind of cute. Raiden sort of reminded him of…the thought softened his facial expression and he smiled softly at her. Her laughter died down as she locked gazes with him though became a bit flustered because she didn't recognize the look in his eyes. It was so warm…so loving…the thought made her nervous and she could feel the warmth grow within the cheeks of her face as she shifted her gaze.

Raiden took a sip of her water, "I-Is there something on my face?"

"No." He lowered his gaze, smile still on his face, "No, sorry for staring I just…"

"You just what?" She could feel her heart racing as it anticipated on how'd he finish that sentence.

Beastboy let a single chuckle release from his lips, "You remind of her."

Raiden's heart sank a little; not exactly the words she wanted to hear, "Oh." She swallowed the sudden lump of disappointment that developed in her throat. "You mean my mom."

"What?" The boy was the one who burst into laughter this time, "Don't take this the wrong way, but you're nothing like Raven."

"Hey!" She chuckled and threw a napkin his way, "She's not that bad."

"No, you're right. Raven's great." His laughter died down, "But I was talking about someone else."

Raiden remembered coming across something in his wallet during their trip to the mall; a photo. "Is it the girl in the picture that's stashed away in your wallet? The one with blonde hair?"

Beastboy was a bit surprised and embarrassed as he blushed. He rubbed the back of his head nervously, "Y-Yeah, though I thought I threw that picture out ages ago hehe."

"Nope." She took another sip of her drink feeling a bit annoyed, "It's still there."

"Yeah. Her name's Terra." His face softened again and it made Raiden's heart ache.

She cleared her throat, "O-Old girlfriend or…?"

"I don't know." Beastboy shrugged, "I guess…that's what some would call it."

Wait. Did he really have an ex-girlfriend? Just the thought alone made her slightly jealous but she was curious about this fact. "What happened between you two?"

"Oh…that." His facial expression saddened, "She used to be a part of the team. But after a lot of crazy stuff that happened…she decided to go her own way and forget about us…about me."

What? How could anyone do that? Sure, maybe she didn't know all the details but Raiden could feel anger rising inside of her towards this girl she'd never met. How dare she leave and break Garfield's heart? If she were to run into her one day, she'd make sure to give this Terra a piece of her mind! Garfield deserved so much better…Raiden had to stop herself in her thoughts. What was she going on about and getting herself worked up about something in the past that didn't involve her. It wasn't like Beastboy was her boyfriend or anything. Letting that word travel through her mind got her heart racing again…but he was her friend. It didn't matter how adorable he was with his pointed ears and single exposed fang at the corner of his cute mouth. Stop it Raiden! She shook her head of the thoughts.

Beastboy continued, "You know, me and her…we had been through so much together. So, at first I couldn't understand why she made the choice that she did, but now…" He leaned back in his chair, "…I think I get it."

Raiden stared at the young man across from her and wondered what happened to the immature, happy-go-lucky and video game playing Beastboy she was used to. He was giving off this vibe that made her a little nervous, though in an oddly good way. Did thinking about that Terra girl actually have this effect on him? His face seemed sullen and Raiden wanted to just put the brightness back into it. To get another carefree laugh out of him. But what did she know about providing comfort to someone with a broken heart? Well, if she didn't at least try, she'd hate herself in the long run. "Garf—" She was interrupted by the chef bringing out their meals.

Beastboy smiled widely, "Awesome food always puts me in a better mood." Raiden watched as he exchanged a few words with the chef before he left them to it and Beastboy dug into the dishes. She smiled softly to herself figuring that was all he needed. Perhaps he did understand that situation from the past now and moved forward. That was good. The girl examined the meal set out and picked up a fork and a spoon so she could join him.

~o~

30 minutes later…

Beastboy and Raiden stood outside the entrance of the hotel, full and satisfied. The boy stretched his arms above him, "That was great. Where to now?" Raiden closed her eyes to concentrate so as to trigger the images she did back in Jump City. Though it was quiet and dead in the hotel, outside was livelier even at the late hour so the sounds made it difficult for her to meditate. Beastboy turned to her and noticed that she was struggling and it reminded him of the times Raven needed to meditate. "You know, it's probably quitter on the roof if you want to head back up there."

"Can't." She shook her head, "Even after eating, I'm still a bit spent from flying all the way here."

The boy morphed into a pterodactyl and used his talons to grab onto both the girl's shoulders. She was caught by surprise as he rose into the air and in a manner of moments he settled her down back on the hotel's roof. "No problem." He grinned as he transformed back.

Raiden simply laughed and gave him thanks before straightening herself. She sat down and folded her legs beneath her in the same manner her mother does while meditating. The boy had a deja'vu as she closed her eyes. She inhaled then exhaled and begun her meditation. Beastboy watched, finding it strange to be observing Raven's "ritual" done by someone else. He wondered if meditation really help to ease the mind. The boy decided to join her and sit himself down across from her in the same manner though he let the palm of his hands rest on his knees. A breeze passed over them and he shivered slightly but Raiden remained still. Her hair blew gently with the wind and Beastboy found himself mesmerized. How was she a spitting image of his two friends combined? Though she had her own fierce personality that set her apart from either Raven or Robin.

His gaze lingered on her pale skin that closely resembled that of a porcelain doll, but it was so much finer and smooth. Hair as dark as the beautiful night sky that shined like a blanket of stars. Eyes as crystal and blue as the seas that surrounded the southern islands. Were Robin's eyes blue? She had to have gotten from him because Raven's—

"Is there something on my face?" Raiden's question interrupted his thoughts. How long had he been staring?

Beastboy blushed slightly and chuckled nervously, "S-Sorry, I was just—"

"Being reminded of Terra again?"

"No. Heh." He shifted his gaze, "Just you." Wait. Should he have said that?

Raiden smiled, her eyes still closed, "Now what would my parents have to say about that?"

Sweat ran down the back of his neck, "How about we keep it just between us."

"Is it something we need to keep between us?" She opened her eyes with a grin, "Were you thinking something naughty?"

He quickly turned to her, "N-No! P-Promise!" His face was red.

"Alright then." Raiden closed her eyes again, "Though even if it was…I'd be flattered."

Beastboy chuckled nervously while rubbing the back of his head, "Would you quit teasing me already."

"I couldn't help it even if I—" She stopped as the sudden images rushed her thoughts. The same visions from the hospital but there were some alterations. Robin alongside an unknown woman and then he was with Bruce Wayne at a residence; Cyborg in company.

Beastboy watched as the girl's eyes glowed, her mouth slightly agape as her body trembled a little. He leaned her way and called out to her without a response. He moved closer and cupped a cheek within his hand, calling out to her again, worried about her wellbeing. Another vision caught her by surprise, showing her mother strung up by her wrists in chains…she was someone's prisoner. Almost instantly, the visions came to a stop and Raiden blinked her eyes slowly, her vision adjusting to meet with Beastboy's gaze. "Raiden, are you okay?"

"I-I think so." Her chest tightened as she could feel her heart grow heavy. "I saw…everything just seems…" What could she say?

Beastboy brushed his thumb over her cheek, "It's okay, that your time."

"My dad he…he was with this woman a-and then Mr. Wayne." She brought a hand to her head, "Then my mom she's…" Her hand dropped to her mouth, covering it so she wouldn't sob.

"Raiden." Beastboy's face became serious as he cupped her face in his hands and moved her face to look at him, "What happened to Raven?"

"I…" She sniffed as a few tears trickled down her face as she choked, "…Garfield…someone has her."

The boy became confused, surprised and worried all at the same time. "Has her as in captured?" Raiden nodded. How could someone take her mother? Maybe the vision wasn't real. Maybe it was all in her head…but it was like she could feel the distress her mother was in. Her pain. Their connection was real. "Did you see where she was? How do we get to her?" Beastboy grabbed her shoulders.

"I'm not sure." She lowered her hands into her lap. "It was dark and the area seemed very much secluded."

He nodded, "Okay. How many areas could be secluded in Tokyo right?" The statement didn't give them much reassurance as he got to his feet. "So, there might be more than we think."

Raiden joined him, "Well, I'm pretty sure I saw a dock."

"Great!" He fist-pumped, "That narrows the search down a little."

She closed her eyes and concentrated, "Garfield…I think wherever this place is…it's surrounded by water."

"Yeah no kidding if we're headed to some docks."

"No." She approached him and opened her eyes as she placed a hand on his shoulder, "This place is underwater."

His eyes widened, "Wow. Okay, well then that can narrow it down more or just make it more difficult in finding her." He gave her a smile, "I'm no amateur in underwater missions, but what about you? Feeling drained still?"

"I'm okay. Thanks for asking."

He nodded, "Awesome. Now, point us in the right direction so that we can go rescue Raven."

{ }

The T-car came to a stop at the edge of the docks and parked right next to Bruce's sports car. Robin and Cyborg got out and walked with Bruce along the docks until the end. "Alright Bruce…" Robin shoved his hands into the pockets of his jeans, "…which one of these shacks is Raven being kept in?"

Bruce snickered, "I highly doubt neither one of those…" He pointed at the only two present structures present, "…Kida has a standard, much like my own."

Robin sighed, "Are you sure because that's all that's out here aside from a few fishing boats."

Bruce pulled out the handheld device, "Quite sure because what we're looking for is—"

"Beneath the surface." Robin had a sudden vision that gave him the answer.

"Yes." Bruce nodded, "Glad to know that you haven't lost your commonsense Dick."

Cyborg folded his arms across his chest, "No offense but uh, I hadn't finished the modifications on the car for underwater use. Can't submerge it."

"I could have my computer back at the cave to send over one of the jets. But it would take it about half an hour to make it here." Bruce sighed.

"Something tells me either vehicle wouldn't help in getting us in." Robin headed back down the dock where land met sea. "They wouldn't get through the forcefield."

Bruce raised a brow as he looked at Cyborg who simply shrugged before they joined Robin. "Forcefield?"

"Yeah." Robin sifted through the sand as the other two came to a stop behind him. "But there is a way to get through it."

"Okay, first of all…" Cyborg raised his hand, "…how do we know that there's a forcefield? And second, WHAT are you doing?"

"Locating our key."

Cyborg shook his head, "Man, I think you've finally cracked."

"Well we knew it would happen someday." Bruce shrugged with a grin.

Robin rolled his eyes until his fingers brushed across a small glass object; it was still in the same spot. He grabbed it and stood up to turn to the two in wait. "Here we are." He opened his hand to reveal the marble.

Bruce and Cyborg exchanged looks before Gotham's vigilante sighed, "Damnit Dick, you really have cracked."

"Would you…! Ugh!" Robin exhaled, "I haven't cracked alright, just trust me."

"Fine." Bruce folded his arms across his chest, "You have one shot to prove your point. If you fail, you and I are taking a trip to Arkham when all this is over."

Cyborg got goosebumps, "Ouch, talk about a bit extreme."

Robin's eye twitched at the thought, "Y-Yeah, whatever." They followed him back down the dock, again, and stopped at the end. He wasn't too sure of what to expect himself but he'd never admit it, especially with Bruce's threat on the line. He lifted the marble to eye level and examined it before tossing it into the sea. Bruce and Cyborg's stare at the back of his head was daunting and he could feel the sweat dripping down the back of his neck. Nothing was happening. Oh crap! Robin was starting to doubt the vision he had; maybe he was going craz— suddenly movement came from the water below. A tube-like transport emerge from the sea, its casing clear hard plastic substance. Once it leveled out with the water surface, it opened revealing the round metal slate that made the bottom.

Cyborg chuckled, "You have got to be kidding me."

"Told you." Robin turned to them with a smile and cheered on the inside, relieved that he hadn't gone mad.

Bruce raised a brow, "How did you know about the marble Dick?"

"I'll explain later, let's just go and get Raven."

Cyborg pulled him back, "Hold on there fearless leader. We're going one by one right because all three of us can't fit in that thing."

"I don't think it would come back up unless another marble was used. One way trip." Robin chuckled nervously.

Bruce sighed, "It's never that easy is it."

"Ah man." Cyborg whined.

{ }

Aqualad and Starfire rode in the transport through the water and the awkwardness of the air between them increased tremendously. He didn't want to complain about the frilled shark's help but the creature forgot to mention how small this transport was. He let the girl situate herself first and her back quickly met the other end of the transport. Without giving it much thought, he walked in front first instead of backwards like she had. Before he could change his position the transport closed behind him and he became pressed up against her. His arms were at least extended outward with the palms of his hands resting on the back of the transport on each side of Starfire. Their faces were nearly touching, chests colliding and legs intertwined. She could feel his breath brush across her lips as they avoided eye contact.

The trip to the facility didn't take long but to the two inside, it seemed like ages. After passing through the forcefield, the transport attached to a foothold and opened. Aqualad backed out, turning away from Starfire who exited after him, blushing slightly. The air between them was so awkward and thick and neither one of them liked it.

"Starfire." Aqualad turned to her, "Can we talk about what happened?"

"I…" She rubbed her forearm, "…yes. I would like to apologize."

He became confused, "Apologize? For what? It's not like you made out with yourself."

"No, but in a way I guess I…suggested it."

"Yeah but I made the first move."

She lowered her gaze, "Which I did not hesitate in accepting and made the next."

He shook his head, "You're being too hard on yourself Starfire. You're not the only one to blame. We both are."

"If this is true…" He could hear the nervousness in her voice, "…then did you have the urge to…m-make love in the moment?"

The question nearly knocked the wind out of him but he refrained from choking on it. She was right, but to come out and directly say it…it was just like her. Knowing that kind of put him at ease as he smiled softly to himself, "Yeah Star…I did. But fate intervened and got us back on track. That was for the best."

She lifted her gaze to meet his and smiled softly, "Yes. I believe so." Their focus on one another was interrupted as a nearby sound caught their attention. To their left was another transport some feet away filled with three people they never even considered running into. "Robin?"

Robin, Bruce and Cyborg tumbled out of their transport onto the floor. The titans' leader held his head teary eyed, Bruce in the feeble position holding his groin and Cyborg was trying to catch his breath. "I thought I told you NOT to put your arm there Cyborg!" Robin snapped.

"It…*pant*…it wasn't my fault." He rolled onto his back, "Man I wish it wasn't a one way trip."

Bruce stood slowly trying to compose himself, "That makes two of us."

"No use crying over spilled milk." Robin got to his feet as well with neither one of them noticing Aqualad or Starfire who were approaching.

Bruce soon sensed their presence and turned in their direction, spotting the two. "Looks like we're not the only ones who made the trip."

"Have we been detected already?" Cyborg readied his arm cannon while he turned around only to see the familiar faces.

Robin moved at the same time, "So much for sneaking in—" He stopped when he saw them as well.

Cyborg smiled, "Star. Aqualad."

"Friend Cyb—" The girl made a move to run and embrace him but stopped herself as she remembered the last time she saw him. He had tried to stop her from leaving in the jet. It was right after her fight with Raven. Her heart became pained and he could see it on her face. Starfire held her hand to her chest and lowered her gaze, "Friend Cyborg I…I'm—"

Before she could finish, Starfire felt his cool metallic arms around her. "It's okay Star. I get it. I'm just glad you're okay." His words touched her deeply and she returned the hug as she held back tears. He then pulled back from her, hands resting on her shoulders, "You ARE okay, right?"

She nodded, "Yes. I am fine." Starfire turned to Aqualad, "Friend Aqualad has been a huge help."

Cyborg smiled as he released her and looked at the water teen, "Thanks for looking out for her man but uh…what are you two doing here?"

"That's what I'd like to know as well." Bruce folded his arms over his chest.

Starfire gave the man a slight bow, "Mr. Wayne." Her eyes shifted slightly to lock Robin's briefly.

"I'd say for the same reason you're here." Aqualad answered, "My jet detected something strange in these waters and I followed a lead that ended here."

Robin raised a brow, "How'd you get through the forcefield?"

"Are we on talking terms now?" Aqualad smirked.

"Look—"

"Save it Dick." Bruce interrupted, "Just answer the question Aqualad."

"Spoke with a local." Aqualad folded his arms over his chest, "A frilled shark. It informed me about a marble that was the key to working around the forcefield."

Bruce nodded, "Ah yes. The whole speak with water creatures bit."

"Not only that." Aqualad shifted his gaze to Robin, 'But it told me something else which I could only guess is YOUR reason for being here as well."

"You know about Raven." Robin's heart ached.

Aqualad's gaze dropped, "So it's true."

"And Kida?" Starfire took a step towards them.

Robin nodded his head towards Bruce, "That's his department."

"Why's that?" Aqualad raised a brow.

Bruce sighed, "It's not completely relevant so don't ask. We just need to move quickly before things get out of hand. Who knows what she has planned for unwanted guests and Raven."

Starfire addressed Bruce, "Do you know her?" He nodded, "Is she powerful? I-I mean to capture Raven…" She shook her head, "…she must be."

Cyborg snickered, "Well according to Bruce, she's a force to be reckoned with."

"Then we work together." Aqualad suggested before looking at Robin, "Putting differences aside."

"Agreed." Robin gave him a nod, "For Raven's sake."

Aqualad lowered his gaze and grinned, "For Raven."

"Alright, so what's the pl—" Cyborg was interrupted by another sound some feet away from them that caught everyone's attention. They readied themselves for a fight.

"Ouch! What was with that landing?!" A familiar whine echoed as the individual coughed and shook off his dizziness.

"S-Sorry!" The voice of a young woman followed behind his, "I wasn't quite sure if I could faze through it or not so I just went full speed ahead." She chuckled nervously as she got to her feet and dusted herself off.

"But we made it through right?" Beastboy stood.

Raiden looked to their left, "Yep, we're through."

"Beastboy?!"

The two became startled at the call and turned to their right to see the group of five people who stood some feet away. One in particular caught Raiden's eye.
Beastboy raised a hand and waved with a big smile, "Yo Cyborg! Wow got almost the whole group there! Except…" His eyes scanned the faces and noticed that Raven wasn't among them.

Starfire raised a brow, "Who is that girl with Beastboy?"

"Huh?" Cyborg turned to her briefly before looking back to squint his eyes, "Beats me."

Robin knew exactly who it was and couldn't understand why the others couldn't see it. But he figured any father would recognize their own child no matter what changes they underwent. His heart begun to race as he felt himself fill with happiness upon seeing her. "Raiden."

"What?" Cyborg's eyes widened, "That…no…it can't be."

Bruce raised a brow confused, "Who?"

"Y-You mean…l-little Raiden?" Starfire placed a hand over her mouth in shock.

"Hold on." Bruce chuckled, "Are you telling me that that girl is the little crumb snatcher you brought to the manor?"

"Crumb snatcher?" Cyborg rolled his eyes as he took a few steps, "Come on Bru—" He was stopped by someone who grabbed his arm. He looked down to see Aqualad being the one to hold him back. The water teen motioned his head to make Cyborg take notice of Robin who was already halfway in meeting with the girl. Cyborg nodded and took the hint.

Robin's gaze was locked with Raiden's and neither broke eye contact as he made his way over. He could feel himself growing emotional and tears begun to well in the corner of her eyes. Hers…they matched his own. He saw the first tear roll down her cheek and Beastboy slowly made his way around and towards the others. Robin's next two steps placed him right in front of the girl and he lifted a hand to brush away some of her tears from upon her cheek. "Hey kiddo."

"D-Daddy…" Raiden choked out before falling into, her arms wrapping around his waist as she buried her face into his chest.

Robin wrapped his arms around her, feeling his chest tighten as he held back tears, "Raiden…I'm so sorry."

"I…I missed you…so much."

"Me too."

Bruce cocked his head to the side, "That would be very heartwarming if I wasn't freaked out by it." He addressed the others, "And trust me when I say, I've seen a lot of disturbing things." Starfire had succumbed to tears moments prior at the two's reunion.

A thought suddenly crossed Raiden's mind, snapping her back to reality, "Dad. Mom's, she—"

"I know." The two pulled back from one another, "That's why we're all here, to rescue her by any means necessary."

Cyborg was itching to make his way over to them, "I want to hug little Raiden too."

"Sheesh." Robin playfully rolled his eyes with a grin, "Sure. Why don't you all come over."

Cyborg was the first to run over and pick the young woman up, spinning her around, "Look at you! You've grown since I last saw you haha."

"Yeah." She chuckled, "Imagine how I felt when I woke up in the hospital to find out I was nineteen."

Cyborg placed her down, hands still on her waist, "N-Nineteen?" He quickly pulled his hands back.

"Hospital?" Robin raised a brow, "How did you end up in the hospital?"

"Well…*ahem*…I'm not sure. The last thing I could remember was bungee jumping off the tower with Garfield."

Robin's gaze slowly shifted to the green teen which one would've sworn his eyes turned into daggers. "Bungee jumping."

Beastboy gulped, "L-Look, I can e-explain."

"You let my twelve year old daughter jump off the tower?" Robin's question was stern and cold, "What is wrong with you?!" It was decided…Beastboy would suffer a slow and painful death. Better start looking for his replacement.

Cyborg shook his head, "Even I know better than that."

"B-But she can fly!" Beastboy didn't know why he tried to plead his case.

"So that makes it okay?!" Before Robin could get his hands on the boy Raiden stepped in his way.

"Daddy wait, it wasn't Garfield's fault okay. I kind of egged him on you know. Pushed a few buttons until he gave in."

Robin sighed, "Even if that was the case, he was the older one and—"

"Garfield?" All present responded simultaneously.

Robin shook his head, "W-Why are you calling him Garfield?"

"Oh, well…" Raiden's cheeks turned slightly pink, "…it IS his name and I thought it'd be alright. You know, since we have THAT kind of relationship now."

"What kind of relationship would that be?" Robin's eye twitched as Cyborg released an uncontrolled cough to cause a distraction.

Beastboy acted quickly, "Robin, don't listen to her, it's not what you think!"

"Oh really." Robin cracked his knuckles, "Then what is IT exactly?"

Raiden pouted playfully while turning to Beastboy, "How can you say that Garfield? After we had our first date and everything."

"Date?!" Robin was on the verge of snapping.

"Raiden?!" Beastboy cried, "Are you trying to get me killed?!"

Cyborg leaned his way to whisper, "Man, if I were you, I'd run…like, right now."

Bruce sighed, "Okay I'm going to put this to a halt because we have more important matters to attend to. Like stopping Kida and getting Raven out, remember."

"Mom." Raiden's heart ached.

"Right." Aqualad turned to Robin, "You can deal with Beastboy when we're done."

"What?! But I—!" Beastboy panicked.

Robin sighed, "Just…don't. We'll come back to this later." The green teen sighed in defeat and blended in with the rest of the group as Robin rubbed his temples, trying to focus on the mission at hand. The others spoke amongst themselves as they wondered in what direction they should head. Another vision emerged within his thoughts and he felt lightheaded for a moment. "We need to go that way." Robin pointed down the path straight ahead of them.

"What makes you so sure?" Aqualad raised a brow.

Raiden took a step forward, "He's right. I can feel mom's aura coming from that direction."

Aqualad nodded, "I understand that since you share the same gifts as Raven, but who did Robin know?"

"I don't know." Robin shook his head, "Just like at the docks."

"Why don't you enlighten us." Bruce folded his arms across his chest.

Robin sighed, "There's nothing to really say. I've just been having these…visions about this place. But it's weird because they feel…real…almost like memories."

"Nightwing's memories." Bruce stated.

Starfire turned to the man, "Nightwing? As in the one who Robin grows into in the future?"

"Yep." Cyborg chimed in, "Apparently he and Kida crossed paths in the past that might've ended tragically. So, there's a good chance she's out to get Robin and Bruce."

Aqualad raised a brow, "Wayne too?"

"It's a long story that I'd rather not get into since we've wasted enough time already." Bruce situated his utility belt over the one around his slacks. "Shall we." He and Robin walked side by side as they others trailed behind them. Several moments later they were approaching a set of large double doors at the end of their path. Taking precaution, they split up on each side with Robin, Raiden and Bruce taking to the right and Aqualad, Cyborg, Starfire and Beastboy taking the left.

Robin signaled Aqualad with a nod for them to make a move in opening the doors. The two pushed with all their strength realizing that the doors were indeed as heavy as they looked. Soon, they were able to get the doors open just slightly enough for each of them to get through one at a time. Before they entered, Robin poked his head inside to scan the area for any potential threat. But it was too dark for him to make out anything in particular aside from a row of columns that seemed to continue on into the darkness. Atop of each rested groupings of small candles that emitted just enough light to show a marbled walking path. He brought his attention back to the group and gave them the okay for them to continue on through the doors. Beastboy was the last to enter being hesitant in leaving the doors open so he morphed into a gorilla and closed them behind him causing an unintentional loud "BANG". Everyone turned to him in disbelief and he could only mouth out a "sorry" as sweat ran down the back of his neck.

"Geez, if we weren't detected yet then we sure are now." Aqualad gritted through his teeth.

"All the reason to keep moving." Robin headed down the path. Once again, the others followed suit and the passed column after column after column. Only the path held the little light provided as darkness loomed on each side. Robin's thoughts drifted towards Raven and what condition she might be in. It had been awhile since she…a memory of their past dealing with Trigon came to mind and he quickly shook it out. She was okay…she had to be. He could feel the guilt forming inside of him for running off to Japan like he did. All this time he'd been trying to convince himself that he wasn't necessarily running away from his problems…but he was, like a coward. If he would've just faced them like a true team leader would've then…maybe things wouldn't have gotten out of control. How could he be such an idiot?

Robin clenched his fists and increased the pace of his stride. Team leader? Yeah…right. What example was he setting, letting the events that played out between his friends and teammates happen. Losing his cool, fighting with Aqualad, his friend and then letting Starfire believe that there was a chance of something more than friendship between the two of them. Falling for Raven and…his heart ached…and letting his feelings of her decision make him hurt her. He'd never do that…a true friend…a true lover…would never do that. Perhaps he did need the help of his future self to fix the damage that's been done the last few months.

Suddenly, visions begun to cloud his thoughts again and he tried to shake them out. He didn't have time and neither did Raven. But one of the visions showed him rows of columns, similar to the ones they were passing. An image of a man unfamiliar to him appeared, shouting something his way but it was deaf on Robin's ears. The more he focused on this man, the more familiar his presence became. Robin's pace picked up again and the intensity of the visions increased. There were weapons, a man with a gun and then a woman. Robin shook his head, though the visions were beginning to be too much for him. He fell to his knees, palms on the ground beneath him as he gasped for air. His eyes had widened and he was sweating profusely. The calls of his company some feet behind him echoed in his ears, like they were miles away. Had he traveled that far from them? Before he knew it, his episode ended just as quickly as it came and his breathing begun to slow down.

Things were starting to make sense, but it still wasn't enough to predict Kida's plan. Once he recuperated, Robin got to his feet and skimmed his surroundings only to notice that he had wandered off that path and into the sideline of darkness. Great. He turned to see a faint light in the distance; it must've been the path the others were still on. Damn those visions, he really couldn't waste time. Robin sighed, he needed to—

"Please…"

His heart stopped…that voice.

"If anyone can hear this…I need help…"

Rachel. Robin quickly turned back to look out into the darkness. Her voice rang within his thoughts. She had to be using her telekinesis to reach someone. Anyone. It was faint, but he could hear it…he could hear her and if he moved in her direction it should get louder and clearer.

"I'm…I'm so weak…I can't move…"

Robin sprinted off, leaving the calls of the others behind as they faded out. Any onlooker would think he was running blind through the dark.

"Please…I won't be able…to send out another…"

But he wasn't running blind because the person sending out those thoughts was the one whose connection ran so deep within him. Bonded. She's seen his hell and he's seen hers. There was nothing the two of them couldn't get through together and this time wouldn't be any different.

"Is there anyone there? It wouldn't be a surprise if there wasn't…if this is truly the end…there's something I'd like to say…"

No. Rachel. It was not the end. Robin took a right trying to not let the sadden tone in her voice shake him too much. She was getting louder. All he needed to do was keep letting his heart and their bond guide him through the darkness. His heart ached as he hoped that he'd get to her in time.

"Starfire…I'm sorry for our fight and not being honest with you. Aqualad…I'm sorry for breaking your heart."

Robin gritted his teeth as he picked up the pace.

"Raiden…I'm sorry for breaking our family. Robin…"

Just hearing his name on her lips snapped something inside of him and he came to a sudden stop, eyes widening in shock. A chill passed through his entire being.

"Richard…for pushing you away…forgive me I…*sob*…I was scared because I...I did love you..."

"Rachel."

The woman quickly lifted her head, tear-filled eyes surprised to see a familiar pair of crystal blues looking right back at her. She never expected…at this point in time, at that moment and in a place like this…but there was no way that she'd deny that those were the only eyes that she wanted to see more than anything or anyone else in the world. Fresh tears streamed down her cheeks as the feeling of relief came over her along with a few other emotions. "Rich—" Robin didn't wait in breaking her chains with his bostaff, both with one swing. Raven dropped and he caught her within his arms, cradling her as he lowered them both to the ground and she laid across his lap. He brushed her wavy hair from upon her face and looked deeply into the amethyst eyes that he had missed so much. A small, yet weak, smile slowly formed across Raven's lips, "You came for me."

"Just punish me now for taking so long to do so." Robin couldn't even force a smile as his lip quivered slightly.

"What matters now, is that you're here now—" The last word barely left her lips before she felt Robin's upon her own. Raven didn't hesitate in returning the kiss realizing that it had been so long. She wrapped her arms around his neck and felt his warm tears mix with hers as their kiss deepened. This one was much like their first the night of their double date but meant so much more. All they've been through…the good and the bad…since that night. It felt like catching up with all their emotions up until this exact moment just ready to explode. If only this happened elsewhere. If only they had enough time and didn't act foolishly. This moment could've lasted forever and blossomed into a first that both could feel that the other wanted desperately.

They finally, but slowly, pulled out of their kiss and Robin rested his head on Raven's, "I love you too."

"Robin?" The two turned to see Starfire and the rest of the group standing a few feet away. They both locked eyes with Starfire, trying to read the girl's facial expression and hoping that their display of affection wouldn't send her in an emotional spiral. She simply gave them a soft smile and cupped her hands behind her back. They returned her smile with one of their own and then Robin helped Raven to her feet.

"Mom." Raiden choked as she ran to their side and embraced the woman.

Raven hugged her tight, "It's nice to see you."

"Dude! Try not to run off by yourself alright!" Beastboy approached, "You nearly gave all of us a heart attack."

Raven forced a smile as her eye twitched, "Nice to see you too Beastboy."

"Great to see you alive!" He gave her a big smile.

"Raven."

Her gaze drifted pass Beastboy and fell on Aqualad. Almost instantly her heart became pained, though not because of guilt or regret just…she could relate to what his heart might be going through because of her. The water teen slowly approached her and even Robin stepped aside out of his way. As he came face to face with Raven, she gave him a soft smile, "Garth."

"Raven I…" He started off, his arms slightly outstretched but he pulled them back. "I mean I…uh…" He dropped his gaze from hers not knowing what to say or what to do with himself…at least until he felt Raven wrap her arms around his neck in an embrace. The boy was shocked at first but then relaxed as he wrapped his arms around her in a hug.

"Thank you." Raven's voice was soft and genuine in his ear before they pulled away from one another and she stepped back in line between Robin and Raiden.

Aqualad smiled softly, "I'm glad to see that you're okay."

"Well now…I wouldn't say THAT." A voice echoed around their group causing them to look in all directions. The voice was familiar to three of them.

"Show yourself Kida!" Robin demanded.

"I'm not the one you should be worried about at the moment Robin. Or should I say, Nightwing." Her voice echoed out again.

Bruce stepped forward, "Kida, whatever you're planning, it's not going to work. So, come out and let us put this thing to an end."

"You're not listening." She chuckled, "I'M not the one you should be worrying yourselves over right now."

Cyborg snickered, "Really? Then who should we be worrying about huh?"

Instantly, the room became illuminated with light causing the uninvited guests to squint their eyes. As their eyesight adjusted, they could make out a throne-like chair that rested to their left some feet away. The one who sat in it had one leg crossed over the other, a devilish grin on her face. To her right stood another woman who was dressed in a black catsuit absent of the cowl. "You hadn't told them Raven?"

Raven's friends turned to her as she gritted her teeth, but Robin was the one who spoke up, "What's she talking about Rachel?"

"Richard she—" Raven suddenly grew lightheaded and her legs gave way. She fell unconscious into his arms.

"W-What's going on?" He turned to Kida, "What did you do to—?!" A vision interrupted him and his view of Kida was filtered with that of a sad and frightened little girl. Kida. He remembered…his heart ached. He was there when it happened.

The entire time, Raiden had been in slight shock as she stared at the woman seated on the throne. The distraction was so great that she couldn't comprehend what had just taken place with Raven. Her heart raced as confusion settled in on who was causing her family and friends so much turmoil. She's seen her in her visions but just as a shadowy figure, not knowing who she was. But now…looking directly at her from across the way, brought everything back.

"Raiden?" Beastboy picked up on her strange lack of reaction, "You okay?" He waved a hand in front of her view gaining the others' attention.

She lightly bit her bottom lip, "A-Auntie."

"Auntie?" Beastboy thought to himself though after a moment he quickly turned to a smirking Kida. "A-Auntie?!"

"Hello again, my sweet little Raiden." Kida greeted with a sly grin and a hint of satisfaction in her voice.