Teen Titans: The Lost Season, Part Two [Archive]

DeathscytheVII

12-23-2005, 08:04 PM

Act 1

The two combatants glared at each other. Circling around like two lions stalking its opponents. Sooner or later, one of them would move.

X curled his arms then in a split second, produced two more blades in each hand, folding them out as seamlessly as a seasoned poker player would when he folds out his cards.

Then Red X gave a smug laugh.

“So the bird can learn, but the question is, can he catch the thief?” X said tauntingly.

“We’ll just find out won’t we?” Robin said in a dead serious voice, no less confident.

The talk was over, and X was the first to move. Six ninja stars flew straight at Robin and the Boy Wonder seamlessly rolled to his side, throwing his one bird-a-rang at his assailant.

Red X was equally fast, crossing his arms and wrist blades together, deflecting the bird-a-rang to a nearby wall, where it impaled itself into the concrete.

The thief turned to see Robin already charging him with two tonfas in his hands, but the Boy Wonder, instead of attacking with his weapon of choice, jumped in the air and began the assault with a savage kick.

X grunted as he blocked the kick with his arm, doing a back flip to avoid a swipe kick at his feet as Robin landed back on the ground. The two moves were done quickly, professionally, each movement having an artful flow to them.

The kid was obviously getting lessons from someone.

Before X could even around to look at Robin, a metal tonfa had hit him straight across the face, knocking him down in surprise.

Robin moved in for the kill, but before that could happen, X vanished right before the Boy Wonder’s eyes. Robin checked his advance.

“Too Slow.” A sickening mechanical whir resounded through the room as X’s wrist blades doubled in size and began spinning like a buzz saw. Robin held up his Tonfa in defense, which was quickly cut in two, just less than an inch away from his arm.

X swiped down two more times, each one forcing Robin back one step.

Robin parried each of X’s blade swipes, with each parry resulting in a piece of metal being cut from his tonfas. Soon, his weapons were reduced to nothing but a small metal stick he held in his hand.

X smirked, Robin was out of weapons and out of luck, he charged.

Just as Robin reached into his belt for his bo staff. The boy wonder grinned as he quickly extended it out, and thrusted it towards X, who suddenly disappeared again.

“Boo.” A voice came from behind Robin’s head and he turned just in time to receive a boot in the gut. Robin reeled back as a rush of air and saliva excited his mouth, X teleported again, this time above him, and a foot slammed right into his back, driving him down onto the ground.

“Thanks for the workout kid, now to get my prize.” X saluted the fallen Robin, then quickly ran to the floating chip and grabbed it in his hand.

Only to have it dissolve upon touching it. The microchip broke down into thousands of smaller pieces, until finally, nothing was left but dust.

“A fake.” Red X exclaimed.

“I guess its back to square one.” Robin smirked as he got back up, already in a combat stance with the bo staff.

“Sorry, I don’t plan on staying.”

"I thought you lost your belt." Robin said with a genuine curiousity, yet the hostility was still in his voice

"A good thief always steals a backup copy of the blue prints." Red X replied back. Assembling the belt was another matter, but it pays to have friends. X was sure the kid wanted to know more about that, but that was all he was going to get.

X rushed Robin with his blades now, he jumped up to avoid a barrage of explosive discs thrown by the titan, lifting his arms up to strike his opponent with his blades.

Robin was just as quick, leaning backwards to avoid the swipe, and throwing his bo staff up to lock blades with X while he was still in mid air.

X quickly made the best of the platform giving to him, and pushing down on Robin’s bo staff, jumped off and completed a backflip that landed him right behind the Boy Wonder, and next to the exit.

Before Robin could even turn around, X was gone, using his short range teleporter to escape.

***

X ran straight for the empty warehouse, where all the unconscious guards had lain. That didn’t matter now, all he needed was his motorcycle, then he was home free.

A few more guards had entered the facility just after he crashed in, but they were quickly taken care of by a few well placed electroshock X’s on their bodies.

He quickly ran back to his bike, taking care to dislodge it from the rubble, and the two unconscious guards who the bike pinned to the wall.

Nothing like the perfect getaway.

He revved up the bike now, its engines roar echoing throughout the facility. Just as he was about to accelerate however, a very persistent person jumped right in front of the bike’s path.

“Give it up kid, you think you can take me down all by your little lonesome?”

“Normally yes, but this time I’ll make an exception.” Robin reached into his communicator. “Titans! Go!”

A black veil suddenly emerged from the ground in the form of a claw, wrapping itself around the sleek black motorcycle halting it in its tracks.

As X tried to accelerate, he found that the black energy was taking components out of his ride, eventually taking it apart.

He jumped ship right before that happened, only to jump right into a bright blue light that seemed to light up the whole chamber.

A small explosion erupted in the air as X was pegged by a sonic blast, followed by a barrage of green sonic blasts behind him. The thief, though hurt, knew the smoke over the field would be to his advantage and so, just as he landed, he prepared to move, only to have a green ram crash right into his ribs, throwing him against the wall.

X groaned, then looked up and saw that the four other titans. The cutie and the sorceress were flying above the group, while the robot man, the green dude stood next to Robin.

“Give it up X, the mask comes off today.” Robin said firmly.

“Sorry to disappoint, but I’ve got plans of my own.” Red X reached into his belt, and to Robin’s surprise, pulled out his own communicator.

“Winters, I need back up.” Red X said smugly.

Seconds later, the entire section of wall behind Red X exploded in several places, revealing at least half a dozen human-sized holes in the wall. The smoke obscured most of that section of the room, and when the dust cleared, Red X was gone.

In his place, were at least three dozen Slade bots, each one armed with a laser rifle.

“Er…time out dude…is X working for Slade now?” Beast Boy asked in confusion.

“I don’t know,” Robin said “but we still gotta catch him.”

The boy wonder turned to Cyborg. “Think you can handle these guys without me?”

“We’re all over it.” Cyborg said with a smirk, his sonic cannon already charged up.

“Titans,” The mechanical titan stepped forward. “Go!”

The four titans charged at the Robots, and soon the entire room dissolved into a cascade of laser fire and explosions.

***

Meanwhile, on the warehouse roof, Red X watched in amusement as the two sides battled it out on the warehouse floor, but someone was missing...

He got his answer as the glass in the skylight exploded into a million fragments, and Robin appeared, jumping out of the opening and landing just feet from X.

“This is getting old really fast.” X said, slightly annoyed.

“I’m taking you in.” Robin said seriously.

“Come on, why do such a thing like that? It’s not like the people of this city did anything for you.”

“And I’m assuming your new boss has?”

X shrugged. “Boss? More like Partner. Since our last tangle, I became freelance. You know, work where I want, when I want.”

“For Slade?” Robin said fiercely. “That’s low, even for you. That guy is psychotic.”

Red X gave a bemused look, then pointed at Robin. “This coming from the kid who prances around rooftops at night dressed as a bird. Nothing personal, but I’ll take my chances with the Psycho, he pays better at least and he has a better fashion sense.”

Robin gave out a death glare.
X backed off slowly to the edge of the roof now, with Robin warily taking out his bo staff, preparing for any sudden moves. But X didn’t look like he was going to do anything.

"Ok, ok, maybe that was a little too harsh, but you get my point.”

X chuckled.

“You should know by now Robin, guys like us, we don’t have to answer to any rules. Because at the end of the day, we can just slip off our masks and become someone else, and no one’s the wiser.”

Robin said coldly, nor did he let his guard down, but X was being unexpectedly genuine, calling him ‘robin’ for the first time.

“Be my partner kid, together, we can make it big. We’ll be untouchable.” He extended his hand out.

“Come on Robin, I know you enjoy the thrill.” X said smugly.

“That’s not the reason I wear this mask. I'm nothing like you, I don’t steal, I help people." Robin, his allegiance reaffirmed, took out a bird-a-rang to prove his point, aiming it at Red X.

X sighed, then turned around, but before doing so, he gave Robin a salute.

"Whatever helps you sleep at night kid."

He jumped, and Robin wasted no time chasing him, preparing to wrap a grappling hook around the thief just as he fell, but when he went to the ledge, no one was there.

X was gone.

***

The battle in the warehouse was over, and Cyborg looked over the battlefield. Dozens of Robots lay battered and broken, lying on the smoldering ruins of the warehouse wall, while the four titans stood quietly in the center of it all, taking a breather from their battle.

Robin joined in just seconds later.

“Oh Robin!” Starfire shouted with glee. “It is great to see that you are not injured!”

“And we kicked butt.” Beast Boy smirked.

“Some of us got it more the other way around.” Raven said dryly, to the annoyance of Beast Boy.

Robin said nothing, instead he looked down at a piece of a slade bot that had landed at his feet. Picking up the metal, he examined it with a keen eye.

That would wait another day. Robin thought, as he put a scrap of the metal into his belt.

“X got away.”

Everyone became quiet again, but it was Cyborg who broke the silence.

“Happens to the best of us man. Now let’s go and return the chip to where it belongs.”

Robin nodded, taking out the computer chip from his cape that X had wanted so badly, the one he had replaced with the fake one before the battle. The one he had to break in to replace….

***

X ran along the rooftops now, the wet rain soaking every square inch of him. In the black night, he was completely invisible, save for the occasional flash of lightning that revealed his running silhouette on the rooftops.

“You have failed in your objective” The headset in X’s mask turned on, revealing a distorted, deep, computerized voice.

“It was a fake anyway, I guess your intel was faulty Winters.” X casually brushed off his partner.

“My intel was flawless, i expected better field work from my operatives" X hated when he used that word.

"In any case, the chip was of secondary importance. It is time we take you to the source, and this time, you will not fail.”

“I’ll take that as my next target.” X smirked, casually ignoring the threat, that guy wasn't the boss of him!

He jumped over another rooftop, disappearing somewhere within the jump city skyline.

***

Meanwhile, a building away, a mysterious figure watched the curious shape disappear from the rooftop. The figure stood quietly on a rain swept rooftop as well. Even in the pouring black rain, it was still possible to see the white reflective flash of the figure’s two Japanese katanas, which made a sickening flash as it reflected the light from the lightning.…..

Without a word, the figure jumped off the rooftop, and disappeared into the streets.

Arrakhat

12-23-2005, 08:46 PM

FIRSTIES!

:eek: Red X wanted Robin to join him? That sounds plain weird. But still, two thieves are better than one. Until one chooses to betray the other, since there's no honor among thieves, in which case it's the honest ones you can't trust. Capt. Jack Sparrow said so, and he is a dishonest thief, and therefore trustworthy.:confused: :D

But seriously, I loved the fight scenes. Now I must discover: who is Winters, and who was watching Red X? Something to do with Cheshire, perhaps? At least X still has the mystery. Knowing you, I doubt you'll unmask him Deathscythe. Then again, you're too honest to trust.:p

(Sorry, I watched just saw Pirates of the Carribean. Again. Never will stop loving the confusing dialogue.)

Death58

12-24-2005, 12:52 AM

JAG

12-24-2005, 02:13 AM

Awsome, as always! Like the others said, the fight scenes were great, and Winters is interesting. I doubt that he/she/it/they/whatever is Slade, though. Too obvious. It's probably someone else that stole the Sladebot blueprints. But I may be wrong.

“For Slade?” Robin said fiercely. “That’s low, even for you. That guy is psychotic.”

Red X gave a bemused look, then pointed at Robin. “This coming from the kid who prances around rooftops at night dressed as a bird. Nothing personal, but I’ll take my chances with the Psycho, he pays better at least and he has a better fashion sense.”

My favorite part.:)

DeathscytheVII

12-24-2005, 08:08 PM

Yay, another stunning chapter with Red X. Although, I gotta say, I agree with Arrakhat in the fact that it's really, really, weird that X seems to want to team up with Robin. I mean, I know Robin wouldn't do it under any circumstances whatsoever, his quest to be a hero never really ending. . .that always seemed to be his main goal, didn't it?

Red X wanted Robin to join him? That sounds plain weird. But still, two thieves are better than one. Until one chooses to betray the other, since there's no honor among thieves, in which case it's the honest ones you can't trust. Capt. Jack Sparrow said so, and he is a dishonest thief, and therefore trustworthy.:confused: :D

Allow me to explain the reasoning behind my madness ;) or at least, what went on in my head as I wrote that section.

You see, like Slade. Robin and Red X are similar on some levels. They both wear masks as a way to hide their identity, so that it is an easier way of working around the law, whether for good or bad purposes. Men in masks don't have to be afraid of rules, because at the end of the day, they can just assume another identity and slip away. So its all carefree X sees that on one level or another, Robin bends the rules to suit his needs, just like how X does it. I dunno, i was making X see some connection between them, and how close RObin was to that blurred line. Of course.....Robin would refuse, we all know that ;) but i nevertheless find it interesting how supposed heroes work around the very laws they try to uphold.

seriously, I loved the fight scenes. Now I must discover: who is Winters, and who was watching Red X? Something to do with Cheshire, perhaps? At least X still has the mystery. Knowing you, I doubt you'll unmask him Deathscythe. Then again, you're too honest to trust.:p

Oh well. Anyway, the fight scene between Robin and X was simply awesome, especially the moment when Robin said, "Normally, yes, but this time I'll make an exception." in reference to fighting him one on one. Then you blew us away with the Slade bots jumping in to help X. I absolutely loved that twist!;) This Winters sounds very interesting. . .and the cliffhanger ending to this update with someone standing with two katanas(on a side note, the description on those were great)really makes me eager for the next part. . .
Maybe i will unmask him ;) maybe i will....:D. And thanks! I love X fights, they allow for particularly fluid and quick matrix style moves that i wish we see more in TT.

Yes, the katanas have something to do with Chesire ;) as you will see in my next update.

As for Winters...well....i'm surprised no one caught see the allusion ;)

Awsome, as always! Like the others said, the fight scenes were great, and Winters is interesting. I doubt that he/she/it/they/whatever is Slade, though. Too obvious. It's probably someone else that stole the Sladebot blueprints. But I may be wrong.

Quote:

“For Slade?” Robin said fiercely. “That’s low, even for you. That guy is psychotic.”

Red X gave a bemused look, then pointed at Robin. “This coming from the kid who prances around rooftops at night dressed as a bird. Nothing personal, but I’ll take my chances with the Psycho, he pays better at least and he has a better fashion sense.”

My favorite part.:)

Interesting theory there JAG ;) we shall have to find out shall we? And yes lol, i've always wanted someone to say that to Robin, i guess that's what fanfiction is for ;) but seriously, if you look at it in that perspective, don't you think its odd people dress in tights and spandex and assume double identities? Sounds crazy by today's standards no?

----------------------

The next act will be partciularly long, but look forward to several things: Infiltration, Explosions, Swords, ninjas and Cameos :D

Arrakhat

12-25-2005, 01:15 PM

Maybe i will unmask him ;) maybe i will....:D. And thanks! I love X fights, they allow for particularly fluid and quick matrix style moves that i wish we see more in TT.

Yes, the katanas have something to do with Chesire ;) as you will see in my next update.

As for Winters...well....i'm surprised no one caught see the allusion ;)

----------------------

The next act will be partciularly long, but look forward to several things: Infiltration, Explosions, Swords, ninjas and Cameos :D
Your explanation for X and Robin's exchange in dialogue is satisfying. But I forbid you to unmask Red X. There's no good identity for him to have. It's like he said:

“You should know by now Robin, guys like us, we don’t have to answer to any rules. Because at the end of the day, we can just slip off our masks and become someone else, and no one’s the wiser.”

I'd rather not be wiser. I love the mystery. Things I am looking forward to in the next part: Explosions:D, Cheshire and ninja fights, cameos (hurray for pointless cameos! Like the Locrix and the Space Monster in "Go."). But your cameos always make sense.

What is the Winters allusion? Is it something outside of the TT universe, 'cause I'm not the brightest bulb in the box. Give me a hint. Please? Or is it to do with this guy:

http://art.titansgo.net/displayimage.php?album=2&pos=17

?

Matt A

12-26-2005, 07:59 AM

I think that's who he's referring to. Makes sense, and would be pretty damn cool.

I have to admit, I did very much like that update. As everyone said, you kept Red X cool, amusing and even a little sympathetic (I found myself rooting for him, at any rate), without losing the air of mystery that is, in fact, most of what makes him so damned cool. And the unveiling of the Slade-bots was just jaw-droppingly awesome, mostly because it caught me completely by surprise. A good move, that one, though I was expecting Robin to a little more berserx at it than he did. But that's a minor niggle.

So this begs some interesting questions. What's "Winters" up to? How does Cheshire fit into this? How does Slade fit into it, if he does at all? And most importantly of all, at what point is this grand scheme going to go spectacularly wrong?:evil:

Good work, as always.:anime:

-Matt A-

DeathscytheVII

12-27-2005, 08:15 PM

Arrakhat HAHA true for Red X ;) but hey, he can be unmasked and still be a mystery. don't you think? ;) I think so. XD

I think that's who he's referring to. Makes sense, and would be pretty damn cool.

I have to admit, I did very much like that update. As everyone said, you kept Red X cool, amusing and even a little sympathetic (I found myself rooting for him, at any rate), without losing the air of mystery that is, in fact, most of what makes him so damned cool. And the unveiling of the Slade-bots was just jaw-droppingly awesome, mostly because it caught me completely by surprise. A good move, that one, though I was expecting Robin to a little more berserx at it than he did. But that's a minor niggle.

Good work, as always.:anime:

Glad everyone just loved the Slade bots :D it's been so long since Masks and I really added that tid bit in becuse i miss that feeling of suspense and mystery in TT. As For Robin's lack of "OMG I"M GOING BESERK!" reaction, its been four seasons since his encounter with Slade, i think he's slowly evolving from an outmatched wannabe opponent to a more cool, collected opponent like batman. He's learned to not take things super obssessively i would think, from eps like "The Quest".

Besides, he regards X as a thief yes, but not an evil bad guy, he and X might be similar on some levels ;) and Robin might not want him to be used by Slade.

So this begs some interesting questions. What's "Winters" up to? How does Cheshire fit into this? How does Slade fit into it, if he does at all? And most importantly of all, at what point is this grand scheme going to go spectacularly wrong?:evil:

OOO i love answering these! But that will come with the update ;)

For now, ill give you my movie poster for this episode. Drawn by moi :D and photoshopped too lol./

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/TreizeV/PosterREDX2copy.jpg

Arrakhat

12-28-2005, 11:37 AM

DeathscytheVII

12-28-2005, 06:18 PM

WOW. Red X, Cheshire, Slade, crazy looking sword blades.....dang I love that poster. You've not given me any clues yet as to Winters' identity... dangling it out there I see.:D By the by, could you let me kow the best way to put pictures I draw on the computer? Either in this thread or by pm (since Guitar Slayer probably doesn't want to deal with my spam:sweat:)? 'Cause I've got my JL cartoony guys and a couple other pictures I'm working on right now that you might be interested in.

Hehe thanks! As for pics on the computer..well, the only way i can think of is getting a scanner. That's all i know about getting drawn pics on comp =/ hope you figure out a way! because i would love to see your drawings!

-----------------

ACT 2

The rain increased as the night went on, drowning Jump City in what seemed like an endless downpour of water. Tonight, the streets were empty, as walking outside was equivalent to being under a waterfall. Yet, in all the darkness, the bright metropolis skyline still stood out, illuminating the city in a beauty that shone in the pale, ugly rainstorm.

The storm roared again, as flashes of white thunder growled in the sky.

The conditions outside however, were the least of the worries for the city dignitaries who stood comfortably inside a grand hall, partying the night away.

The ballroom was a magnificent sight, with hundreds of guests attending. The gala itself was gargantuan, a vast empty hall that seemed to stretch on forever. The walls were whitewashed with marble, and were ornated by Roman pillars and statues. most of the wall however, was covered by a red velvet curtain, which covered the spaces between the statues and columns. In the center of the ballroom, stood a small platform, which was decorated with a lush variety of flowers and exotic fauna, so that to the recent visitor, he would enter to see an island of vegetation amonst the sea of dresses and suits.

All this splendour of course, was hosted by the mayor. Who celebrated his recent landslide victory against his inept opponent at the polls. Although it was a fair election, there was rumor that the mayor had….higher connections, but at this point, no one thought it wise to mention it, especially inside the mayor’s mansion.

And now, the man of the hour, dressed in the finest Italian suit in the city, received and greeted his guests.

“I want to thank you so much for setting up this event Mr. Mayor.” The Mayor turned now, to see Professor Chang, who had recently been released from prison. It was a very legitimate affair, with a full pardon from the mayor, and a pledge from the good doctor that he had turned away from his life of crime and reformed.

“It is my pleasure Chang,” The mayor put on a political smile, “The least that I could do. You are after all, the other star of this party you know.”

“Ah yes, I promise you sir, my invention can change the world as we know it.” Professor Chang said enthusiasically. Gone was his biosuit, which he had adopted as his trademark costume. Now, he wore his formal scientists robe, black and trenchcoat like, but still fine enough to be presented as formal.

“I have no doubt.” The mayor smirked, cigar still fresh in his mouth.

“I do hope, that it is safe here, It wasn’t easy convincing my superiors at S.T.A.R labs to put it here on display. It alone, is worth more than I can imagine.”

“Ah yes professor.” The mayor replied smoothly. “Now, when can I see it?”

“I’ve had it placed in your study, under armed guard of course Mr. Mayor.” Chang replied back.

“Wonderful! Then let’s have a look shall we?” The Mayor waved off the other dignitaries, telling them to enjoy the party while he led Chang up a grand flight of stairs to the second story of the mansion.

“Mayor Amp, I do have your reassurance that my work wil be safe in Jump City?” Chang asked nervously.

Maxwell Amp gave a confident nod. “Absolutely. Take a look around.” He waved his arm as a gesture. Around them, were dozens of guards, security cameras, even mounted sentry turrets hidden in the roof. “Rest assured Professor, there are things in this house that are just as valuable as your invention. I’m not one to take any chances.”

Amp continued on. “My security is state of the art. Nobody, and I mean, nobody, is getting in here without an invitation.”

***

“I’m in.”

X said slyly as he hid behind a bush on the outside of the estate.

“Excellent.” Winters replied on his communicator. “I have the schematics of this mansion. There are pressure sensors littered around the perimeter outisde, so watch where you step.”

“Don’t I always?” X said confidently, making his way towards one of the windows, ever so slowly, with almost catlike movements.

Guards were patrolling the yard as X did this, and the thief took this time to activate his cloaking device, rendering him invisible to the men outside, each one carrying a rifle.

“I’m hooking you up to their surveillance system now Winters.” X commented as he took an X shaped transmitter, and planting it right on a security box outside the building. “How’s the feed?”

“I have the feed from the cameras now, looks like they’ve got a few more guards than usual, but it is expected. The problems are all inside. Laser tripwires, camera surveillance, double density guard patrols at random intervals…”

“You never did tell me, why can’t we just wait for them to take it to a lab? Not when there’s every fat politican in the city here?” X asked.

“Because at the lab, they will have it protected by an army, here at least, it is a smaller army.”

“You’re making me feel so much better you know.” X said as he climbed one of the drain pipes along the walls of the mansion. As he reached the second floor, he opened one of the windows, and saw a gridline of laser trip wires that formed checkered pattern.

Moving on his instincts, X grabbed the top of the window sill, then with acrobatic skill, he planted his feet against the window, then pushed back. Just as quickly, he placed his feet together, and used the outward momentum and swung right back in, like a person on a swing set.

X made it right through the window, just through a small box in the laser gride that just fit him.

He landed in an empty office.

“Ok, what’s next.”

“You’re nearly there, use the equipment I gave you to check the corridor.”

“On it.” X replied, turning on one of the new gadgets he received from Winters. With a click of his helmet, two lenses dropped down on his eyes, and suddenly, X was able to see through the walls.

“There’s one guard approaching, looks like hes a regular.” X said, implying that this guard would have a predictable patrol pattern.

“Move as soon as he is out of the way.”

The guard was gone now, and X ran for the door, his own lock pick already at the door knob.

“Four seconds before the next guard.” Winters cautioned

Three….

Two…..

One….

CLICK.

The guard returned, and found nothing amiss, the door still locked.

***

“Alright, the safe should be in this room.” X said as he walked through what looked like the Mayor’s study.

Then something caught his eye.

“Hey….what’s that?” X saw that one of the bookcases next to the wall was opened, and inside was another room, a secret room, full of computer monitors.

“It’s a panic room.” Winters explained. “State of the art and bomb proof too. But that is not your objective, move on.”

X found the safe within minutes, and already started to work on it.

“It’s a new model, but it shouldn’t be a problem for someone of your skill.”

“Aw Winters, you’re making me blush.” X said sarcastically as he turned the dial on the safe, waiting for the clicks and noises he needed.

“Done.” X opened the safe now, and in there was…

Nothing.

“It’s not here.”

“Checking Cameras…” Winters said. “Looks like Mayor Amp and Chang have left the party, they are your best bet.”

“On my way.” X said, but just then one of the computer consoles inside the secret room started bleeping. The silent alarm.

“What happened?” X whispered to Winters. “I didn’t do anything.”

“Someone has tripped the pressure pads on the perimeter.”

“Someone else crashing the party huh?”

***

Outside, in the pouring rain, a guard lay on the cold ground, a poison needle lodged in his head just above the ear.

“I’m in.” A girl, dressed in a Japanese kimono and wearing a cat-like mask, said smoothly.

“Good, find your target, then terminate.” The voice on the other end of her communicator said.

***

“We’ve got an intruder on the grounds.” One of the guards inside the house said into his radio. “I’ll go check it out.”

Within moments, the man was gone.

“This should make my job much easier.” X said, jumping down from the ceiling, where he had hidden from the guard.

***

The guard left the mansion now, and scanned the dark rain for any irregularities.

He saw two guards lying at his feet.

“Hello.” A feminine voice said behind him.

“Wha-“ The guard turned, just in time to receive a full sword swipe across his chest. He dropped his rifle, and cringed down onto the ground, undergoing several spasms of pain.

He looked up, and saw the green girl in the kimono, Chesire.

“Feeling a little sick?” Chesire asked. “These are my Shinto Dragon blades, sharpened on a microscopic level, and poisoned.”

The guard made a gurgled sound and he struggled to speak, but found that he had no voice.

“The symptoms are simple. Paralysis will come to you soon, within less than a minute, your voluntary muscles: arms, legs, will be unable to move, paralyzed one by one. Then, you lose your conciousness, which should be right…about now.”

The man collapsed.

“Good night.” Chesire said casually as she walked through the open door.

***

“Your next task should be to take out the cameras.” Winters advised.

“Already on it.” Red X took out three X ninja stars, then with amazing speed, turned the corner, hitting three cameras right in their lenses, which quickly sizzled them in electricity.

Then, X heard another sound in the hall, a blade swiping through the air, like a low whistle.

The camera fell to pieces at least a few seconds after the blade had cut though, a testament to how fine the blade was.

X snuck a peek around the corner, and saw that this impressive girl was carrying two blades that were way to big for a person her size, yet, she handled them like they were toys.

X gave a low whistle. “This girl means business.”

“She’s not your concern, stay focused.” Winters advised.

“Can’t I at least turn around and say hi?” Red X joked.

“She’s headed your way. Go to the mayor, quick.” Winters said.

“Fine.” X quietly opened the door, where already too guards were standing outside the mayor’s personal office, where he and Chang were talking.

“Uh oh.” X said quickly, teleporting out of the way just in time, and behind one of the pillars in the room, just out of sight.

Just then, two sword swipes echoed through the hallway, and within less than a second, the doors into the room collapsed into four perfectly square pieces. Subtlety, X thought, wasn’t this girl’s strong point.

“What was that?” One of the guard said.

“Stay here,” The other one cocked his rifle. “I’ll go check it out.”

Seconds later, he was gone.

“Now’s my chance.” X took out one of his X stars, then teleported right behind the guard.

The man only had a split second to react, but it wasn’t fast enough as X placed a Red X on the guard’s back. With a muffled scream, the guard was quickly shocked into unconsciousness.

Meanwhile, outside the room, X thought he heard rifle fire, followed by a quick whistle of a blade.

“You’ve got a few minutes before the guard comes around, I suggest you move now.” Winters said, just as X approached the office.

***

“Mayor Amp, allow me to give you a demonstration of my new generation of nanotechnology.” Professor Chang said proudly as he took out a tube of glowing blue liquid.

“Now, this may seem like liquid to you Mr. Amp, but this is actually billions of tiny Nanodrones, each one recipient to any commands I give them. They can create and convert matter at a nanoscopic level.”

Chang tossed a rock onto the table, and then dipped a bit of the blue liquid onto it.

“Now watch, as my nanodrones convert common rock, into something else.” Chang punched in a few keys into a laptop on the desk, and within moments, the rock began changing color, eventually becoming shiny, and yellowish.

It had changed into gold. Solid Gold.

The mayor picked it up in his hand, and was amazed, it was truly genuine.

“Impressive Professor, this will certainly revolutionize several things.” Mayor Amp said.

“Indeed, imagine, we can fight disease at a Microscopic level, perform delicate operations without even cutting open a patient.” Chang said enthusiastically.

“I was thinking of more….practical applications.” The mayor smirked, and Chang sank into an uneasy silence.

“It doesn’t take a genius to see the military application in this.” Amp said smugly. “It can take apart tank divisions, or create new ones from useless wreckage.”

“Please Mr. Amp. That was not my intention.” Chang said sincerely.

Mayor Amp smiled. “Now what happened to that old professor Chang I used to know? I didn’t think Prison would sap your imagination my good doctor. Besides, I have a client, a big client who is looking to move his operations into this city. This invention would be a nice way to show him just what we can offer.”

Just then, a new voice cut through the air.

“Enjoy it while you can Mayor. It will be the last thing you ever see.”

***

“Crap.” X jumped up, just in time to avoid barrage of kunai that was thrown right through the door. He dodged the sharp blades as they went straight through the door, hiting a guard next to the mayor and knocking him down. Within a second, the door resembled a piece of Swiss cheese.

He turned around now, and saw that catmask girl standing right there, both swords in her hands.

“You know, I didn’t expect a chick to come here.” X commented.

“Didn’t you know that two thirds of the world’s greatest assassins, are women?” Chesire took her blade out, and menacingly pointed it at X.

“Maybe I should consider a carreer change then.” He chuckled.

“You’re in my way.” She hissed.

“Feel free to move me.” X took made a mock bow, then within seconds, produced two of his Wrist blades that quickly whirred to life like a buzz saw.

The girl showed momentary surprise at this, but rushed forward with her blades.

The two opponents met blades, and X widened his eyes in surprise as Chesire’s blade cut through his like a hot knife through butter. The pieces of the red blade shattered all across the floor.

“Well…that didn’t go very well.” X said.

He barely had time to dodge another one of Chesire’s thrusts, he leaned backwards, feeling a hot slap of air across his face as the blade narrowly missed.

He didn’t however, have time to block the kick that was aimed straight for him.

With a loud crash, X was sent flying into a mirror, shattering it into a million pieces. He groaned, to his surprise, that girl can kick!

“You know…when I said move me, I was thinking you could just ask nicely.”

Chesire ignored him, and instead, turned to her target.

She made her way into the study, where the mayor and Chang had taken refuge behind his desk.

“Mayor Maxwell Amp.” Chesire said coldly.

“Really my dear, this is most improper.” Amp said, still shaken by the shock of the surprise, he was still however, conscious enough to press the silent alarm on his desk. “We haven’t been introduced.”

“I have a message from my employer.” She took out three sharp kunai into her hands, to the mayor’s surprise.

“Goodbye.”

A tap came onto her shoulder.

She turned, just in time to see X’s fist meet her own mask.

With a grunt, Chesire found herself flying next to the mayor, landing right on his desk and knocking off all the computer on it.

The Mayor and Chang made a run for it.

“Let me help you with that.” X stopped in front of Chang, and focused on the bottle of blue liquid in his hand. His target.

“No! I won’t let yo-“ Chang protested, just before a computer monitor was thrown right at his head from behind, knocking the poor professor out.

X grabbed the vial of liquid, and starred at the person who threw the computer. That green robed girl with the catmask. Now she was carrying not only two swords, but also two sickening needles attached to her wrist by metal cuff.

“Is that what you came for?” She asked impatiently.

X nodded.

“Then take it and get out of my face. My business is with the mayor, not you.” Chesire said, then walked out of the room, following the mayor. Chesire followed slowly, just like a cat stalking its pray.

“You’re clear all the way back to the window. Move it!” Winters said impatiently over the comm link.

X began to run, but for some reason, he didn’t feel like leaving. Maybe it was stupidity, but for some reason, the focus on the job wasn’t there. He was supposed to be the bad guy here, but…… now, that was hard to believe.

“You’re running out of time X, this is the Police’s department, let them handle it.”

X shook his head. “They won’t get here in time.”

“This is Mayor Amp you’re talking about. He does not deserve charity, let alone mercy. Get out, nothing else matters. Don’t think you’re a hero here.”

“Sorry Winters, didn’t catch that last one. Static, I’ll get back to you on that.” X said smugly, then turned his communicator off.

***

“Fisher! Get your damn guards up here!” Mayor Amp shouted as he ran down the flight of stairs.

Chesire took her time, arming a small bomb and tossing it down the stairs after Amp.

Before the rest of the guards around the dining room could react, a large explosion engulfed the entire room. Guards were thrown back, while all the silverware and windows shattered. The floor itself shook violently.

The blast itself, threw Mayor Amp helplessly onto the ground, his back scorched from the blast.

“Goodbye.” Chesire took out her poisoned blades, walking slowly down the stairs.

She then turned around, to parry one of X’s blades that he threw at her.

“You’ve made a mistake coming back here.” She hissed through her mask.

“I’ll get back to you on that.” X said smugly, crouching down to avoid two sword swipes that just missed his head, and performing a sweeping kick on Chesire’s legs. The assassin grunted, then slipped off the balcony as she fell backwards from the kick.

X meanwhile went down the stairs to help Amp up, propping him on his shoulder. He remembered that panic room he saw some time ago…that was his best bet.

As he made his way up the stairs, at least six guards were there waiting for him.

“It’s the intruder! Fire!” They all leveled their rifles.

Go for the girl with the five foot sword you idiots

“You’ll have to excuse me Mr. Mayor.” Red X pushed Amp towards two of the guards, who quickly raised their guns to avoid hitting their boss. Then he turned around, and flung two Electric X’s at his two other opponents, shocking them as the X dug right through their suits.

He then charged, doing a split kick that took two guards in their chins. The last guard back away, firing as he neared the edge.

A girl reached up from the ledge, two poisoned needles in her hands. The guard gurgled in surprise as the girl grasped his throat from behind, burying the two needles on the bottom part of his mouth.

The guard was pulled down, and as soon as that happened, Chesire jumped back up.

“Stop them!” Two more guards appeared, and Chesire quickly leaped onto the shoulders of one of the guards, digging her poisoned claw into his back while leaping towards the next panicked guard with both swords flashing.

“Man, you’re heavy.” X grunted as he propped the mayor on his shoulder, trodding towards the safe room in his study.

Chesire saw where they were going, and a smirk went on behind her mask.

“Your precious Panic room won’t save you now Amp.” Chesire took out a switch from her robe, and pressed it.

***

X had made it to the room, and already placed the semi-conscious mayor down onto a chair inside. He gave a neat whistle as he looked around. The walls were all shiny, metallic, made from solid titanium. Nothing was getting in here.

Just as he was about to close the door, a ‘beep’ came from behind him.

There was a small, plastic object on the counter of the desk, that wasn’t there before when he first saw the room.

There was a timer on it.

5…..

4…..

3…..

“Note to self: Don't be a hero."

Arrakhat

12-28-2005, 10:34 PM

Death58

12-29-2005, 12:41 AM

I think that my jaw dropped progressively more and more as I read this chapter. . .The corrupt mayor didn't strike up in my mind until you blatantly called him by the name Amp, even though you did give a slight nod to his origins when you spoke of rumors of a little higher help in his 'record landslide'. Seriously though, you have definitely made my week. You spoke of a reference to Remnants before, but I didn't expect this. You also set into motion a certain way for Luthor to bring his business into Jump City, which I really enjoyed. Then this Chesire, whom I admit I know very little about. . .of course the twin blades make her a much more interesting character, along with the poison in them, and she's extraordinarily evil which I always like. I wonder who she's working for though? There are probably a lot of people who would like to see Amp dead. . .Then we get to the part of Red X, who tried to steal the nanodrone substance, which was explained nicely by Chang. That also comes back to Winters; why would he need the nanodrones and. . .who is he? Also, is Amp going to survive this insurgence? There are lots of events set into motion with this update, leaving the main question to all this; how is X going to make it out of this alive? Great update as always, and a brilliant way to implement Amp's cameo.:D

Anime

12-29-2005, 01:45 AM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/TreizeV/PosterREDX2copy.jpgUm, I'm betting that you drew the Red X (left-hand pinky-finger gave it away) but the others are taken from the show. You might have added a touch-up or two to the scary-lookin broad, but I recognize her from Homecoming, and Slade of course... is Slade.:p

That's a pretty good Red X. You're a better artist than I am. That's for sure!;)

I hope you have more (of these "Lost Season" title images). I really wish I could draw/do that.:D

Matt A

12-29-2005, 07:59 AM

Well, that was a lot to take in at once. A genius cameo from Maxwell Amp (and, from what I could tell, bang on character), Chang going straight (yeah, right...), one of the best character intros I've seen for a while (man, Chesire is evil!), some great action, good-quality quips all-round, the most joyously twisty-turny plot I've seen from you so far...oh, and one fairly evil cliff-hanger. Lots to think about, and even more to appreciate.:anime:

-Matt A-

Arrakhat

12-29-2005, 09:49 AM

Um, I'm betting that you drew the Red X (left-hand pinky-finger gave it away) but the others are taken from the show. You might have added a touch-up or two to the scary-lookin broad, but I recognize her from Homecoming, and Slade of course... is Slade.:p

That's a pretty good Red X. You're a better artist than I am. That's for sure!;)

I hope you have more (of these "Lost Season" title images). I really wish I could draw/do that.:D
Actually, I'm pretty darn sure he drew the whole thing. I looked at Cheshire's picture in "Homecoming pt2" and there are differences between Deathscythe's and the actual. Still, these characters in the poster look so dang good.

DeathscytheVII

12-29-2005, 03:14 PM

Well, that's why noble criminals don't last long. But X is resourceful. Anywho, the plot's getting a bit too complex for me. X is working for some mysterious Winters and Cheshire has appeared, working for a mysterious benefactor for reasons unknown. And apparently the Titans are too lazy to keep tabs on a super thief, an evil criminal genius, and a corrupt mayor. No good kids are probably out eating pizza or throwing Cinderblock into buildings. This line bothered me though:
"Even when you steal for a living, it’s easy to forget you’re the bad guy."

Red X doesn't think he's a bad guy, remember? He's just looking out for number one. His line in "X" regarding that was great, so whence came this change in his views on his thefts? Ah well, great action and cut scenes make it all work anyway. I'll see what I can do about my pictures, I might have a scanner I can use.
Ah yes, there aren't really enough noble criminals these days ;). As for the plot. well..i can only tell you this....this will be as far as it goes, ill be pulling it together from now on. The titans aren't there because X was stealthy enough to not trip any alarms this time around hehe ;)

As for the line, i put that in because when you steal, you're the bad guy to the ppl you're stealing from. But i agree with your confusion hehe, so i took it out.

I think that my jaw dropped progressively more and more as I read this chapter. . .The corrupt mayor didn't strike up in my mind until you blatantly called him by the name Amp, even though you did give a slight nod to his origins when you spoke of rumors of a little higher help in his 'record landslide'. Seriously though, you have definitely made my week. You spoke of a reference to Remnants before, but I didn't expect this. You also set into motion a certain way for Luthor to bring his business into Jump City, which I really enjoyed. Then this Chesire, whom I admit I know very little about. . .of course the twin blades make her a much more interesting character, along with the poison in them, and she's extraordinarily evil which I always like. I wonder who she's working for though? There are probably a lot of people who would like to see Amp dead. . .Then we get to the part of Red X, who tried to steal the nanodrone substance, which was explained nicely by Chang. That also comes back to Winters; why would he need the nanodrones and. . .who is he? Also, is Amp going to survive this insurgence? There are lots of events set into motion with this update, leaving the main question to all this; how is X going to make it out of this alive? Great update as always, and a brilliant way to implement Amp's cameo.:D
My pleasure death ;) i didn't originally intend to use Amp as the mayor, i planned on just calling him 'mayor' but then i realized that he would make the perfect cameo for this role. I couldn't resist :D. Chesire is a comic book character, who specializes in poisons and assassinations, she didn't use blades in the comics, as to my knowledge, that was my addition. Because

Swords + Girls = Ub3r

Man, you're all going bonkers over this Winters thing...XD good lol.

As for Amp...well, we'll see with the next update :D

Um, I'm betting that you drew the Red X (left-hand pinky-finger gave it away) but the others are taken from the show. You might have added a touch-up or two to the scary-lookin broad, but I recognize her from Homecoming, and Slade of course... is Slade.:p

That's a pretty good Red X. You're a better artist than I am. That's for sure!;)

I hope you have more (of these "Lost Season" title images). I really wish I could draw/do that.:D
The Chesire is referenced from Homecoming, but i actually did make a skeleton of her and drew her. So...depends how you look at it i suppose hehe.

Thanks though! As for more lost seasons title images, im considering some for the finale ;) my next project will be Malchior/Raven though hehe. See how long that takes me.

Chesire's evolution:
http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?t=157269

Well, that was a lot to take in at once. A genius cameo from Maxwell Amp (and, from what I could tell, bang on character), Chang going straight (yeah, right...), one of the best character intros I've seen for a while (man, Chesire is evil!), some great action, good-quality quips all-round, the most joyously twisty-turny plot I've seen from you so far...oh, and one fairly evil cliff-hanger. Lots to think about, and even more to appreciate.:anime:

-Matt A-
Thanks Mate! One of the hardest things about writing other ppl and their OCs, is their character hehe, glad to see i was able to pull a good Amp through.

Chesire, i hope they make her really evil for the movie XD. Hehe.

As for the twisty turny plot, i hope its not too confusing ;) of course, this will be as convoluted as it will get.

Pun-3x

01-01-2006, 01:35 AM

Wow. That's how you do a cliffhanger. ;)

Loved the stopping place, and I love how this touches on how X sometimes tends to do the right thing. You've done an excellent portrayal of him so far. (as you do with all the characters...and, as I've said dozens of times, I'm sure ;) )

I know I've been slow in responding. I've sort of taken the holiday time to do other things, and have only popped in here a couple of times. And what spare computer time I've got is mostly going to rereading my own fic for parts I might want to address later.

Good to see the stories have maintained their quality. It's gonna be fun to see how this turns out. :D

DeathscytheVII

01-02-2006, 07:14 PM

pun3x Thanks pun :D glad to see you're enjoying this REd X story, i was afraid that given his cool character and how you can write him, i wouldn't be able to make it that interesting.

ACT 3 (part 1)

A huge explosion ripped through the Mayor’s study, throwing bookcases and tables into the air as if they were toy furniture. Within the blast, a blazing inferno of computer parts and burning pages swirled violently, ripping carpet off the floor and shattering all the windows, before disappearing within an instant, dissipating into a cloud of debris and rubble that shook the entire building. The explosion even drowned out the screams of the guests downstairs, terrified by the attack.

Amid the burning books and shelves in the room, the sinister flash of a blade appeared as Chesire entered the room, a guard thumping down quietly onto the floor as she released his neck from her hand.

She looked at the source of the explosion, and cursed.

The safe room was completely shut, and the bomb had exploded outside.

That damn thief….

“Report.” The cold voice on her communicator came to life.

“The target made it to the safe room, the plan failed.” Chesire said bitterly, wiping the blade of her sword on her robe.

“I had expected better Chesire.” The voice rang with disappointment.

“I do not fail.” Chesire hissed. “I will wait for them to come out.”

“You’ve done enough damage. Leave, and return to base.” The voice said calmly.

Sounds were coming from downstairs now. Footsteps. Dozens of them, along with shouts. The police were here.

By the time the police began pounding on the study door, She was gone.

***

X opened the blast doors quietly now, red ninja star already in his hand in case the crazy broad decided to do a sneak attack. But to his pleasant surprise, she was gone. The mayor, behind him, sat in his chair, still recovering from the daze of the blast.

“Heh. That was easy enough.” X said, then turned around to give the mayor a casual salute before strudding towards the window.

The wooden doors to the study burst open now as a half dozen cops entered the room. They broke down the door so forcefully that it was completely ripped off its hinges.

Each Swat member, dressed in full body armor and suit, trained their rifles at Red X.

X raised his hands, ever so slowly.

“Uh..I know this looks bad-”

“That’s him. Open fire!” One of the guards shouted. Within seconds, X found himself being strafed by a barrage of rifle fire.

X bolted for the door, flipping to avoid a shot at his feet while throwing two ninja stars at his assailants. Two swat members grunted as their weapons were knocked right out of their hands.

He made it to the window, wasting no time, and jumped right through, doing another somersault flip before landing gracefully onto the ground. It was all clear from here now, and X ran straight for the perimeter wall.

“Oh you have got to be kidding me.” X groaned.

The five titans had made it to the scene, just after everything had happened. The two girls were once again flying in the air, while Cyborg and Beast Boy flanked Robin.

“I got to hand it to ya kid, you’re timing is perfect” X gave a thumbs up.

Robin gave X another one of his patented glares.

“Guess it wouldn’t mean much if I said I had nothing to do with that?” Red X gestured back at the mansion, which was already burning from the fire of the previous explosions. Fire trucks rushed into the grounds, while the policemen evacuated the mayor and his guests from the collapsing building.

“Titans! Go!” Robin shouted, and the five superheroes were already onto X.

X, in a bold move, just rushed the five heroes head on.

Cyborg was up front, hoping that his bigger size can block X like a brick wall.

Red X jumped up, avoiding a sonic blast that blew a smoking crater into the ground, then threw his own ninja star at the robot man.

Cyborg however, had upgraded his cybernetic body since their last encounter, to make it more responsive to his reflexes. With a surprisingly fast move, Cyborg caught it in mid air, just inches from his face.

“Got it!” Cyborg shouted.

“No, got you.” Red X replied, then within seconds, Cyborg screamed as the Ninja Star in his hand came to life, zapping him in a blanket of red electricity.

Tin man’s down.

“Azarath…Metrion….” Raven gathered black energy into her hands. While Beast Boy charged at X as a ram.

X however, was faster, he jumped onto Beast Boy’s back, then teleported right behind Raven, pulling her hood over her eyes and throwing her off.

“Let’s skip the fancy chat shall we?” X smirked, then gave Raven a firm kick in the back. The sorceresss tumbled forward and fell onto the ground.

“You will leave my friend alone!” Starfire charged at X with both eyes blazing.

X took out two huge ninja stars from his robe, these ones requiring his whole palm just to hold it. Just as quickly as he produced them, he threw them at Starfire.

The Tamaranian, unphased by this new threat, continued her charge, confident that she could cut straight through those two projectiles. But without warning, they exploded, blinding her in a white flash.

“Aaaah!!” Starfire screamed, falling down onto the ground.

While this was all happening, X didn’t even stop running. He was cutting through the titans like a hot knife through butter.

He stopped again, and saw that Robin in his path.

“Kid, we can only do this so many times.” Red X gave a weary sigh, then suddenly, with renewed energy, charged straight at Robin.

“You’re not getting out of here!” Robin said firmly, taking out his bo staff and charging the thief. He swung and hit nothing, X dove forward, jumping on Robin’s Bo staff as it hit the ground, then putting a foot on the boy wonder’s shoulder.

“Thanks for the assist.” X said smugly, then did a flip so that his hands landed on the top of the wall, then he dropped to the other side, into the streets, where a sleek black motorcycle was parked in an alleyway. Within seconds, the roar of a motorcycle was heard from the other side of the wall as X sped away.

“Aw man….” Beast Boy complained. “How many times are we gonna keep this up?”

“Until we catch him.” Robin retracted his bo staff and placed it back into his belt. Cyborg and Raven, having recovered from their blows, stood next to their teammates.

“So, what next?” Cyborg asked.

“Yes, how can we guess where the Red X is going to next?”

“We don’t have to guess Starfire.” Robin said calmly, taking out his communicator.

“I know.”

***

The facility was darkened, foreboding, and gloomy. Perfect place for a criminal hide out. X thought.

He followed Winter’s instructions precisely, meeting him in this specified location. All around him, he saw that he could barely make out any details in the room, and the sensors he had installed in his masks weren’t picking up much either. This room was empty, devoid of life and light, save for a dimly lit circle in the center of the facility, cast on by an overhead light.

X stood uneasily as he tried to make out any shapes in the chamber, but there was nothing, save for the eerie sound of machinery in some other part of the building.

But still…something was not right.

“HYAH!” A voice screamed out, accompanied by a flash.

X widened his eyes in surprise, then did a back flip to avoid the sword slice, which just cut through his tattered cape.

After the narrow escape, X looked up and saw a very familiar figure standing in the limelight.

“You?” X said, trying to hide his surprise. “I had no idea this was going to be a party.”

“You will pay dearly for this thief.” Chesire took out a scimitar, along with her katana, so that she had two weapons in her hands. The scimitar itself, was twisted in a very sadistic way, almost like a cat tail.

She jumped into the air, fully intending to slice X’s head in half. But the rogue was faster, and he rolled out of the way, letting Chesire hit nothing but the floor. The sound of steel clashing on concrete rang throughout the chamber.

Chesire reached into her robe, and took out five needles in her hands.

“The tips of my blades are laced with Curare poison, which paralyze you. While these needles contain Ricin, a favourite among assassins. You will experience them both first hand.”

X shrugged. Everyone this day had either been trying to kill, maim, burn, and capture him, how was this different? Red X took out his own blades, shaped in Red Xs.

“You will pay for what you did to my mission, and breaking into our headquarters.” She hissed.

“huh?” X barely had time to squeeze this last line in as he narrowly dodged the needles thrown by Chesire. The girl rushed him afterwards, both swords flashing, and X obliged, taking out his own ninja stars and meeting her with his own parry.

The two sets of blades locked as the two combatants met, and X grunted as he tried to hold the poisoned blades away from his face. This girl was stronger than she looked.

“Wait…..this is my headquarters. I work here!” X said, indignant.

“Actually….I work here.” A third voice rang out, echoing the facility.

Red X and Chesire froze, looking around the chamber for the source of the voice, but in vain. The two still had each other locked in a death struggle, but slowly, they began easing their weapons, until finally, the two rogues stood quietly in the light, a temporary unspoken truce.

“Winters?” X shouted out, he was slightly confused. This voice was different.

.
.
.
.
.
.
.

.
.
.

“No…Winters is another associate of mine.” A figure appeared on the ground level, and he slowly walked into the light. He wore the same armour as the commando bots, only more reinforced. Black armour laced with steel reinforcements on the shoulders and waist. He almost looked like the robot help he received, but with two differences, he wore a dark grey sash across his chest, probably containing some weapons, and he had a mask that was split in half, with a black and orange side. X noted that the black side did not have an eye hole in it.

“Call me Slade. I’m sure Robin has told you all about me.” He spoke in a very icy, formal voice.

“Just give me the money for this, and we’re done.” Red X held up the vial of nanodrone substance.

“Oh, I’m afraid we won’t be done there.” Slade said smoothly.

“Then why did you have me do it?” Red X said, his voice not faltering once. He wasn’t going to be intimidated.

“I wanted to see if you were the real deal. Partner.” Slade chuckled.

"You thought it was a simple job, but It was a test. With the Hive Academy destroyed, I required a new source for operatives. That was when I heard of you two. The best thief, and assassin in the business.”

“Wait, you set us up to do jobs, at the same place?” Chesire said.

“That was the test.” Slade said casually.

Chesire and X stood there quietly, hands gripped readily on their weapons.

“You see, I've come to learn that when you do business with partners, it is necessary for them to listen to your instructions, to never disobey orders. And that they have the skills to complete the job. That way, you know you can trust them in the field. You both failed that test. In skills, and obedience. I’m very disappointed.” Slade shook his head, sighing.

"Because I SOOOO want to work with you." Red X said sarcastically.

“I was looking for a partner, but I guess you are nothing but a common thief after all. I do thank you for those Nanodrones however." Slade said.

“Buddy, you sure have a twisted definition of having a partner.” X thought about breaking the vial right now, but before he could do anything, a gunshot echoed the chamber, and suddenly, X found that the vial in his hand was swept out of his hand, and within a second, were carried straight to Slade.

“It’s sad really, a waste of fine potential. And since you’ve seen my operations, you won’t be allowed to leave here. At all.”

The lights flashed on, and for a second, X was blinded by the brilliant flash. The entire room was revealed now, and in the oblong chamber, stood dozens of robots. There were the robot commandos, each one carrying a rifle, while supporting them, were new robots he never saw before. Ones that were twice as big as the other ones, with a cyclop eye, and clamps for hands.

“So……..truce?” X said smugly to Chesire.

“For now.” The assassin girl readied herself, just as three robots wielding samurai katanas landed right in front of her.

The robots all fired.

In that instant, X jumped into the air, throwing half a dozen Ninja stars at the commandos in front of him, splitting their heads in half as his stars easily cracked through their armor.

A large Robot attempted to body check him, but X easily dodged the lumbering android’s charge, and instead, he teleported behind the Robot’s back, placing a huge X on him, which blew up just as X jumped off his back, moving to another Robot. All the while dodging a huge wall of laser fire.

More Robots took sniping positions on the floor, and one such android took aim, only to receive a metal needle in its optic sensors, blinding it effectively.

Two more flashes followed, and when the dust settled, the Robot saw Chesire in front of him. Before he could move, his arms fell off, followed by his torso as he was sliced clean through.

The katana wielding robots charged, and Chesire stepped in, crossing her arms, she pulled another katana from her sheath with her right, and a dagger from her robe with her left. She parried the first Robot, who overstretched its lunge, and Chesire pulled her dagger back and punched the Commando in the face.

Before that Robot even went down, the second robot, who had parried her sword, pulled back for another slice. The falling robot she punched had freed her dagger hand, and she spanned out, ripping it straight into her current opponent’s chest, slicing it open and revealing a huge mesh of wires and computer chips.

Two Robots appeared behind her, rifles trained.

Before they could even fire, X teleported behind them, placing two shock X’s on their backs. The commandos twitched in apparent pain as a surge of red electricity fried their circuits. They fell on the ground, deactivated.

“That’s one you owe me.” X winked.

Chesire, with a grunt, threw her sword straight at X, and to his surprise, it missed his head by a mere inch. It hit instead, a large robot straight in the chest. It froze in its place, and X saw that the Robot was just about to crush his head with its clamp.

Red X shrugged. “What ….these? I could’ve-“

He was cut off by a swath of laser fire, forcing both of them down to find cover behind a bunch of boxes.

A robot fired a rocket, and within seconds, the shelter had disappeared in a massive blast, which tore through the floor.

Chesire and Red X stood in the corner, all their weapons at the ready, as if they were prepared to make their last stand.

Suddenly, the laser fire stopped, to both their surprises. And moments later, Slade stepped in front of his legion of Robots, confident that he had won his victory.

“That didn’t take long.” Slade said tauntingly, yet in his smooth calculating voice. "Once again, you disappoint me, but I'm not surprised. You're a thief and an amateur assassin, it’s expected. All this time, you were playing checkers, while I was playing chess."

The Robots all cocked their rifles, charging up their weapons.

"And like one of my pieces, you fell so easily into my trap."

X, to Slade’s surprise, gave out a smirk.

"So that makes two of us." Red X said in reply.

The thief reached for his cape now, and Slade was genuinely wondering whether the thief had lost his mind.

But then he widened his eyes in shock as he saw it, On Red X’s constume, where a small beeping light was attached to his cape. A bird-shaped tracer.

At that instant, the walls behind Slade and his robots exploded, throwing up a huge cloud of smoke into the chamber. Through the smoking rubble, were the silhouettes of five very familiar heroes.

“I guess this is checkmate then, partner.” X said smoothly.

Arrakhat

01-02-2006, 07:57 PM

JAG

01-03-2006, 05:38 AM

The last two chapters have both been great! X is cool, as always. Cheshire is psychotic (which is definitely a good thing;) ). Slade finally showed up (woohoo!:D ). Like Arrakhat, I didn't think it would actually be Slade, but obviously I was wrong. This final showdown should be freakin' awsome, if slightly one-sided. The Titans, X, and Cheshire vs. Slade and some pathetic robots. But Slade, being Slade, probably expected this and is about to launch Plan B....

DeathscytheVII

01-05-2006, 02:18 AM

Hurray! X is more the hero than ever! But still, I should have realized you would use Slade, but I thought you were throwing us for a twist and were going to use his butler Wintergreen instead. This was a great installment, between action and Slade's usual badassery. And, as usual, you've written him bang on target. And this line:

“The tips of my blades are laced with Curare poison, which paralyze you. While these needles contain Ricin, a favourite among assassins. You will experience them both first hand.”

That sounds like a shoutout to Batman Beyond. And after watching too much Naruto on New Year's Eve, the needles make me think of Haku. (I can't stand that show that much though. Naruto's annoyingness and my conflict over whether or not Haku is really a girl :ack: drags it all down.) What a great allusion.:D

So now we await the stunning conclusion for Showdown. I personally can't wait, especially since Trial is up next in the season.[/quote]

HAHA, went for the obvious instead of the mysterious ;) lol well i hope you don't mind that. Of course, things aren't always what they seem ;)

As for Chesire, yes, i did give her Curare poison as a shoutout to Batman Beyond ;) when bruce said curare was "as deadly as her name", i wondered what Curare meant, who knew it was a poison used by south american tribes that inflicted paralysis :)

WHoa, and i so didn't realize the Haku reference until just now, i just thought girl assassins in Japan use needles ;). lol. As for Haku...i give up on trying to give him/her a gender. its too confusing :S

The last two chapters have both been great! X is cool, as always. Cheshire is psychotic (which is definitely a good thing;) ). Slade finally showed up (woohoo!:D ). Like Arrakhat, I didn't think it would actually be Slade, but obviously I was wrong. This final showdown should be freakin' awsome, if slightly one-sided. The Titans, X, and Cheshire vs. Slade and some pathetic robots. But Slade, being Slade, probably expected this and is about to launch Plan B....

Yay! I try to get Chesire across as that ;) glad to see it worked. Hehe, didn't think it woudl be slade? when else can i use one of my favourite villains :D

One sided? may not be as one sided as you think ;)

Thanks for reading!

NOTE: I'm also working on an idea for another Fic. ( of course, ill finish Lost Seasons first.)

Slade: Heart of Evil

As a young soldier fighting in the war-torn country of Zandia, Private Slade Wilson suddenly finds himself bestowed with miraculous abilities. With them, he tries to help others, eventually trying to find out how he got them. But as time goes on, Slades learns that sometimes, people are destined to become someone else, no matter how much they don't want it to be.

Death58

01-05-2006, 06:48 PM

Well, it certainly is interesting to see that X and Slade were decieving eachother from the beginning. . .It's also very ironic to see X actually save the mayor(Amp survives:p ). Although, I have to say, on top of the massive cliffhanger/twist at the end of this update, my favorite part was when Chesire and X teamed up against Slade's robots. The two actually sound like they could make a good team up if given the chance, but they also seem to be much more skilled than Slade gives them credit for. . .Also, as you mentioned above, Slade was an obvious choice to bring into this but-but I didn't expect it because I was trying to piece together some other person that was in this, so really it worked brilliantly as a twist if you get my drift. Fight scenes=awesomeness, once again. . .and the team up of X and the Titans really seemed to work out well. Another twist that I didn't see. I'm going to go out on a limb and say that Slade is kinda in trouble right now, and I can't wait to see the showdown that will ensue because of that trouble.

NOTE: I'm also working on an idea for another Fic. ( of course, ill finish Lost Seasons first.)

Slade: Heart of Evil

As a young soldier fighting in the war-torn country of Zandia, Private Slade Wilson suddenly finds himself bestowed with miraculous abilities. With them, he tries to help others, eventually trying to find out how he got them. But as time goes on, Slades learns that sometimes, people are destined to become someone else, no matter how much they don't want it to be.Well, I look forward to it!:anime: It will be nice to see Slade's beginnings. . .I've wanted to do that with a certain Titan's character(Jinx). It's nice to see you've got another fic in the works. Anyways, I can't wait for the next update!

Pun-3x

01-06-2006, 12:03 AM

Matt A

01-06-2006, 08:23 AM

Well, it's cool to see that X can play every single side going. And that Slade is as intelligently evil as he ever was. Thinking about it, I should have expected both of those twists (Slade's arrival, and the Titans' own entrance), but I didn't, so you still get kudos for pulling off the obvious with style. Like the others, I can't wait to see how the showdown of Showdown pans out. -Matt A-

DeathscytheVII

01-10-2006, 12:50 AM

Well, you did have to wonder if Slade was involved anyway. Interesting setup here--both of them hired by the same person. And with reason! Poor amatuers.

And I loved the touch with the beacon. Figured X might have something up his sleeve, just not a tracer in his cape. ;)

Thanks Pun ;) The tracer in the cape was kinda reminiscent of the bat tracer bats always used. hehe. And yes, what goes on in Jump city that ISNT involving Slade? At least from Robin's POV.

Well, it's cool to see that X can play every single side going. And that Slade is as intelligently evil as he ever was. Thinking about it, I should have expected both of those twists (Slade's arrival, and the Titans' own entrance), but I didn't, so you still get kudos for pulling off the obvious with style. Like the others, I can't wait to see how the showdown of Showdown pans out. -Matt A-

Thanks Matt, i thought that it would be a little too obvious, but i'm glad to see that the obvious was still pretty fun :D

ACT 3 (Part 2)

“Um…dude, who’s the crazy ninja chick with the swords?” Beast Boy asked in confusion. The rest of the Titans assembled around the green changeling, Cyborg amped up his sonic cannon, and Raven and Star both charged up their hands.

“The Teen Titans.” Slade said civilly, sounding like he was expecting them. Slade was a man who was proud in not showing surprise. He waved his hand in gesture towards his armed robots, who were slowly training their guns to the new arrivals.

“Now’s our chance.” X quietly turned to Chesire and nodded. “Bird Boy’s so obsessed with this guy, there’s no way he’s going to pass him up to chase us.” He said in a very confident voice.

Robin took out his bo staff, then turned to his team.

“You guys, take Slade. X is mine.” Robin gave a determined glare to X.

In that instant, everyone in the room dropped their collective mouths.

“Okay! Okay!” Beast Boy slid his way in front of Robin. “Who are you, and what did you do with Robin?” The green titan asked in exasperation.

“I’ll explain later.” Was all Robin said. “Titans, Go!”

More robots appeared in the chamber now, and the Titans wasted no time in jumping into battle.

***

“Oh great….” X sighed. “Looks like I’ve made his list.”

Red X gave Chesire a wink.

“Shall we?”

Without even an answer, the girl ran forward, flashing out two more swords from her sleeves and rushing a dozen Slade bots. Before the Robots could collectively pull the triggers on their rifles, she was already running them through. One had his mask cut in half horizontally, with its temple detached from the rest of its body, while two others had their arms and legs sliced off. When one robot fired a shot at Chesire, she somersaulted into the air, landing her sword point on the Robot’s shoulder, before swinging back down and kicking the robot in the back, sword still impaled in it.

X covered for her, while Chesire was in the air, he threw half a dozen ninja stars that stuck onto a group of robots, eventually expanding into a huge puddle of red glue that stuck the robots together.

A robot went behind him with a sword, and instantly swung down, only to hit nothing as X phased out of sight, reappearing behind the commando with his X wrist buzzsaw, and slicing his head in half vertically.

While this was happening, the rest of the titans continued the fight in the chamber, starbolts, sonic blasts and explosions began shaking the building as the five heroes tried to fight their way through the army.

At least two dozen Robots rushed forward in an attempt to pin Robin down, but the wily boy wonder used his bo staff as a pole vault, leaping straight up from the crowd and landing right behind them. Cyborg covered instantly, and a sonic cannon took out half the crowd in a brilliant blue flash, sending robot parts scattering all over the room in smoking ruin.

More Robots were taken out as a flurry of Starbolts peppered the room, burning holes in robots like they were swiss cheese. Through the green-lit smoke, the silhouette of the alien titan was seen, both hands lit green along with her eyes.

The robots opened fire, only to miss as the Tamaranian took to the skies, swerving left and right to avoid the barrage of laser fire that scarred the walls she flew past.

“Azarath, Metrion, Zinthos!”

A black shroud surrounded the robots now, and seconds later, a cluster of bolts, nails and screws began forming in the air, all of them stripped from the Slade bots, who instantly fell to pieces at their dismantling.

Beast Boy was next to move, transforming into a huge Siberian tiger, the green titan used his catlike reflexes to dodge all the lasers directed at him, then he leaped forward, eviscerating two Slade bots with his giant claws.

Cyborg ran up to one of the larger robots, who were the heavy artillery in this battle, carrying shoulder mounted rockets and lasers the size of tank barrels. In a savage punch, Cyborg ripped right through the body of one of these robots before it could fire, spraying the air with bits of metal and circuitry, while leaving a neat hole in the shape of him inside the gargantuan droid. Seconds later, the robot exploded, taking several slade bots with it.

Starfire flew in beside Cyborg, aiming for the enemies to his right while Cyborg poured a steady sonic blast to his left. The two literally cut a burning path through the crowd, leaving behind dismantled smoking bodies in their wake.

Star fired another one of her eye lasers, which penetrated through three robots, throwing them all back. The laser continued its way through the ranks, going past robin who was slicing through the shoulder of a Slade droid with his sword.

Ahead of him, he saw a series of flashes and explosions, where two people were fighting in the middle of this free-for-all. The room sounded like something from a war zone. Rockets, lasers and explosions reverberated through the air, and Robin ducked unconsciously as a rocket shot up on the ceiling, dropping piles of soot and rubble to the floor.

The closest one was Chesire, who gracefully dodged each robot’s attack with cat-like reflexes. Digging her wrist blade into the neck of one robot, she pounced at another one, ripping its face off with her claws.

She then took her sword out of the chest of a downed robot, just in time to see two bird-a-rangs flying straight at her through the smoke.

A flash of steel appeared as both blades contacted, and Chesire soon found herself holding a sword that was cut in two.

Wasting no time, she momentarily rolled up the sleeve of her robe, showing two sharp claw-like blades attached to her hands.

X teleported right next to Chesire, after shocking a robot with his X star.

“So…just how many swords do you keep under that robe?” The thief asked slyly.

Chesire replied with a hiss, pointing her claw at X.

“Ok..gotcha.” X winked.

“I thought you didn’t like partners.” Robin, surprised at the appearance of Chesire, said grimly.

“Call it a relationship of convenience kid, and I made a good choice.” X gave Chesire a nod.

“Of course, she made an even better choice.” X shot a wink.

“I will remember to cut out your tongue after this.” Chesire finally spoke.

“You can obviously tell she’s not a people person, don’t blame her, its part of her job description. Now, let us out, you’re good kid, but not crazy psycho sword chopping girl good.” X explained smugly.

Robin shot a grin. “Well then, I guess you were right about it being a convenience.” He pointed to behind X.

“What-?” X said in confusion, then the thief turned around.

Chesire, the ninja cat girl, was gone.

“C’est La Vie.” X shrugged, then he took out his wrist blades.

Just then, X teleported up onto the ceiling, kicking open a skylight and instantly jumped to the roof.

Robin followed.

***

More explosions shook the room, as a dozen robots grabbed onto Starfire as she flew to the skies, so that it looked like a gigantic mass of robots was flying in a neat ball shape. The Tamaranian struggled to throw them off, then figured out a method by slamming herself right into the floor, flattening all the robots with a single blow.

Slade meanwhile, ran through the chaos, avoiding the bodies of his fallen minions, he quickly disappeared through a door that led into a dark hallway, letting three Slade commandos cover for him.

“I believe Slade is getting away!” Starfire pointed out.

“Oh no he isn’t!” Cyborg said fiercely, then blasted the three Slade bots who guarded the door into oblivion.

“Come on team!” Cyborg waved to the other titans. “We got work to do!”

The three titans, finishing up their battles, broke off engagement, and quickly ran down the hallway with Slade, who’s footsteps were already fading into the darkness.

***

Outside, it was still raining hard, and X shivered as he felt the cold slap of rain hit his body, but it was more than made up for by the seering adrenaline he was feeling inside. There was no way he, Red X, the best thief in Jump City, was getting caught tonight. He figured it would be no problem.

After all, fear and adrenaline gives men wings.

He ran along the cold rooftop, braving the howling wind and sleets of rain, which was already beginning to soak through his uniform and dripping from his mask. He parked his bike just outside the complex. All he had to do was reach the edge of the roof.

Then HE stepped in.

Robin was just as soaked as Red X, his hair, usually spiky, was now soaked so that it went flat, strands of hair dropping down to his eye level.

X gave a chuckle. One minute ago, he was so sure that he was home free, now the absurdity of this situation, Robin giving up Slade for him, fighting in the freezing rain, this was just making him laugh.

"What are you doing kid? That's the big bad guy!" X said in disbelief.

"You're my business tonight X." Robin said, determined.

“As flattered as I am by all this attention, you aren’t going to start stalking me now are you?” X chuckled slyly.

“You’re just a piece of my unfinished business.” Robin replied back.

X sighed, shaking his head. “Oh great, well then, let’s just get it over with. The whole ‘I’m going to take you to jail and unmask you’ speech!”

Robin rushed forward, punching X right in the face.

The vigilante groaned, falling down onto the soaked rooftop. Didn’t expect that.

“Touche kid, Touche.” X smirked, then he charged with his wrist saw blades.

***

The four titans made their way across the dark hallway, Cyborg led the way with his shoulder mounted light. Not a sound echoed through the darkness, save for the far off sound of footsteps.

Slade.

The four titans ran down the hallway, turning corners and winding halls. Rain slapped against the windows of the complex, while howling gusts of wind were heard even from inside.

The quiet however, was suddenly broken as a flash of lightning echoed through the halls, temporarily lighting everything in the room in a bizarre eerie white.

There, standing in the middle of the hallway, was the familiar silhouette of the man in armor.

“You’ve got no place to run now Slade. This is a dead end.” Cyborg shouted to the end of the hallway, taking out his sonic cannon.

“It’s over.” Raven said firmly.

“For you perhaps.” Slade replied in his suave calculated voice. “I’m surprised Robin thought you could catch me.” He chuckled. “The first rule of war is to never reinforce failure.”

“Oh yeah?!” Beast Boy said fiercely. “We’ll show you just what we can do.”

“Trust me my green friend, tonight…..I will be the one doing the teaching.” Slade smirked, another flash of lightning illuminated the room, just enough for the titans to see Slade cross his arms, stretching them back out and revealing two bo staffs, One in each hand.

The villain walked slowly, deliberately, towards them.

“Titans!” Cyborg gritted his teeth, annoyed at Slade’s arrogant smugness. “Go!”

Cyborg and Beast Boy charged, while Raven and Starfire flew right behind them.

“Here’s a little lesson in strategy titans.” Slade said smoothly as he continued walking. Cyborg didn’t even bother listening to him, he charged his sonic cannon, preparing to fire it as he ran.

Slade pressed a button on his bo staff.

Suddenly, the entire hallway lit up as clear as day, as three bombs went off right in front of the titans. Beast Boy, caught unawares by the blast, was thrown back while Starfire and Raven were stopped right in their tracks.

Cyborg, his metallic body strong enough to take the brunt of the blast, simply brushed it off, one of the perks of being half machine. He ran through, using his thermal sensors to try and pick up Slade through the smoke.

He didn’t have a chance as he felt a bo staff wrap around his neck, his assailant right behind him.

“First, take out the leader.” Slade said as if he were instructing a pupil. Then he took out his other bo staff and stabbed it straight into Cyborg’s kneecap.

“Even Robots have joints, Joints that can be disconnected and broken.” A sickening crack sounded and Cyborg screamed in agony as Slade rapidly stabbed his free bo staff into Cyborg’s other knee and elbow, essentially cracking them all.

The robotic titan fell to the ground, unable to move his legs or arms.

“Next….” Slade spoke to the downed Cyborg in a sinister voice. “You take out the most powerful one.”

“Raven!” Cyborg shouted through the smoke.

“Azarath, Metrion….” Raven instantly began chanting, a spell to clear the smoke and to throw up a defensive barrier in front of her.

“Zin-“

She didn’t even get to finish, a hand stabbed forward from the smoke, taking Raven just below the ribs. The sorceress gasped, feeling her insides pushing all the air from her throat.

Raven fell onto the ground, a sickening feeling overcoming her instantly that quickly developed into pain. She held her throat in a tightened grip, as if she were about to spew out all her organs.

“Magic isn’t useful unless you can say the words.” He tossed Raven a handkerchief from his belt. “I hit your liver, so you may feel the need to vomit in the next few seconds. Enjoy.”

“Next, you take out the long range hitter.” Slade shouted through the smoke to Cyborg, just as Starfire burst through the smoke, firing a flurry of starbolts at Slade.

There was no way Slade could dodge this, and he flew back against the wall as he was hit again and again by green blasts of energy. Starfire closed the distance, firing more as she charged.

Right into the barrel of Slade’s laser pistol.

He pulled the trigger.

In one close range shot, he did what no other slade bot had been able to do with a power rifle, he took out Starfire. The Tamaranian grunted as she flew back, the concentrated blast at such a close range was enough to hurt even her.

Slade continued walking forward, with only a green Siberian tiger in his path. The green beast growled ferociously as its prey neared.

Slade walked on, oblivious of the fact that he was walking towards the jaws of a twelve foot killer. He kept walking, his one eye staring straight ahead.

Then, Beast Boy made his move, pouncing right at Slade in an attempt to claw off his face.

Slade then did a surprising move. Instead of dodging the tiger, or backing away, he met Beast Boy with his own charge, sticking his hand out and slamming Beast Boy right in the throat. In one simple hand lock, the twelve foot tiger was rendered helpless.

“Just like Terra, you rely too much on your instincts.” Slade chuckled, instantly rewarded with a death glare from the green titan, but he had no time to respond. Slade violently choke slammed Beast Boy down onto the ground.

“Be sure to give her my regards.” Slade took out his pistol, and aimed it straight at the downed Beast Boy.

Just then however, a concentrated blast of energy hit him in the back, and Slade screamed in pain as he was thrown right into the wall, the burning blue energy still smoking on his back.

“Boo Yah.” Cyborg got back up. Just because a robot’s joints could be broken doesn’t mean they can’t be repaired instantly.

“Impressive, but you forget the fact that half your team is incapacitated.” Slade gestured towards a reeling Beast Boy and Raven on the ground, Starfire had recovered from her blast and was back in the air.

Slade took out his bo staff, and flipped out a switch.

“I’ll be sure to keep in touch with you. For old times sake.” Slade said slyly.

Cyborg rushed Slade, but just then, the villain pressed the button, tearing the hallway in half with another explosion. Slade quickly disappeared behind the rubble.

“Uh…Dude….what happened?” Beast Boy rubbed his head.

Just then, red sirens began wailing throughout the building.

“Slade must’ve started a countdown.” Cyborg said in frustration.

“Raven, are you damaged?” Starfire helped Raven to her feet, but she was still choking on her own blood and spit, they would have to leave the old fashioned way.

“Let’s get out of here!” Cyborg shouted. And the other titans wasted no time, and ran.

***

Sparks flew as Robin and X met blades once again, X quickly disengaged, back flipping to avoid two more sword swipes from Robin.

Robin and X were running side by side across the rooftop now, and X attacked, throwing several exploding X’s Robin’s way, but the boy wonder dodged each one seamlessly with a jump, then a barrel roll, avoiding the series of explosions which dotted the rooftop.

Robin went forward with another sword slice, only to have X do a backflip, then kick Robin right in the chin.

“What’sa matter kid? Running out of steam?” X said tauntingly.

Robin didn’t reply, instead, he angled his blade slightly so that the reflective side faced X.

“Fancy moves there.” X chuckled.

Then a flash of lightning came down, and X suddenly realized what Robin was doing.

The blinding light was reflected off the sword, and X suddenly found himself disoriented from the flash.

The next image he saw was Robin’s boot coming towards his face.

X teleported right above robin, only to find that while he was jumping down, the boy wonder had angled his sword upwards so that its tip faced X. But that was also another distraction, in Robin’s other hand, was an explosive disc.

A blast shook the roof instantly, and Robin grunted as X responded with his own explosive X, so that both combatants were thrown across, Robin’s sword and Red X’s ninja stars were both lying on the ground.

Robin rushed forward, doing a sweep kick at X’s feet. X replied with a jump kick, so that both assailants missed each other.

“Getting tired?” X said smugly.

“I can keep this up all night.” Robin said sternly.

“Peachy.”

Before anything else happened, the entire world suddenly shook.

The rooftop lifted completely into the air as a huge blast ripped through it. Sections of the roof disappeared into a huge roaring inferno that shot up a hundred feet into the air.

Robin and X were thrown apart by the blast, and Robin groaned as he lay on the burning roof. Rubbing his head, Robin got up, and saw that X was stranded on a corner of the rooftop that was separated from the rest of the building by a wall of flame. X too, was just getting up.

Robin quickly reached into his belt and took a grappling gun, firing it above the flames so that it hit a section of the warehouse wall just above X.

“Grab it! I’ll haul you over.” Robin shouted.

X hesitated for a second, as if weighing the benefits of accepting this help. Meanwhile, more explosions ripped through the roof.

Red X smirked.

"Looks like you win this one kid. You want my mask?" X smirked, just as more flames engulfed his part of the rooftop.

“Wait!” Robin ran towards X.

"Catchya later." X saluted.

Within that instant, another explosion, this one the biggest yet, and with it, X instantly vanished within a ball of flame.

Robin lifted his cloak, shielding his eyes from the blinding light as the explosion took out almost half the rooftop. Shattering all the windows in the surrounding neighbourhoods.

It was over.

***

The police arrived on the scene, along with the firefighters, but by that time, the titans were all gone, already back at the tower where Robin debriefed them in the evidence room.

“So…..X got away?” Beast Boy asked curiously.

“I guess so.” Cyborg replied back. They had searched the wreckage at least half a dozen times, there wasn’t a trace of anything there.

“Just this.” Robin held the object in his hand, knowing that somewhere, out there, X was probably running. He was sure of it.

“Slade and X won’t be so lucky next time.” Raven said firmly.

“There will be another day Robin.” Starfire said reassuringly, just as Robin pinned up the object on the wall of his evidence room. The one thing he had sworn to get for all those months.

The Mask of Red X.

.
.
.

.
.

“So…..” Beast Boy asked curiously, breaking the silence. “Why didn’t you go all freaking out at us when we told you Slade escaped?” The other Titans leaned towards Robin, also wondering the same thing.

“Because….” Robin turned around, looking at the piece of metal he took from one of the Slade Bot's in the early fight.

“I don’t know why, something just doesn't seem right. But I don’t think that was the real Slade.”

The other Titans widened their eyes in surprise, but Robin said nothing more as he quietly left the room.

***

Meanwhile, miles away from the warehouse. A body was lying alone on a desolate stretch of Jump City’s beach. It was a slumped, lifeless figure, dressed in dark grey armor and sporting an orange black mask. Inside its hollowed out computerized head, a hand reach in, and retrieved the object.

The blue vial of nanotech matter.

Having gotten what he had came for. The figure turned away from the Slade Robot, and walking along the dark stretch of the beach, disappeared into the darkness……

The End

JAG

01-10-2006, 04:13 AM

*stunned silence*

Wow. 'Slade' vs. The Titans (without Robin, for once) was one of your best fight scenes yet. You got his arrogant dialouge perfectly. I liked how he effortlessly took the Titans apart one by one. And now he has the nanotech stuff....Something tells me the Titans are gonna have problems in the near future....:evil:

Matt A

01-10-2006, 09:23 AM

Not for the first time, you got both X and Slade down pat. Man, Slade's "teaching" was the most blood-chilling thing I think I've ever seen you write. Almost stole the entire show, but X's cocky wit still managed to hold its own (his one-sided banter with Cheshire in particular). And is it just me, or is Robin getting X's mask a certain one-fingered salute on X's part? After all, the face behind the mask is what Robin wants to see...;)

Whilst I'm thinking about it, there's one more thing I need to say:

“Now’s our chance.” X quietly turned to Chesire and nodded. “Bird Boy’s so obsessed with this guy, there’s no way he’s going to pass him up to chase us.” He said in a very confident voice.

Robin took out his bo staff, then turned to his team.

“You guys, take Slade. X is mine.” Robin gave a determined glare to X.

In that instant, everyone in the room dropped their collective mouths.

“Okay! Okay!” Beast Boy slid his way in front of Robin. “Who are you, and what did you do with Robin?” The green titan asked in exasperation.

“I will remember to cut out your tongue after this.” Chesire finally spoke.

“Magic isn’t useful unless you can say the words.” He tossed Raven a handkerchief from his belt. “I hit your liver, so you may feel the need to vomit in the next few seconds. Enjoy.”

“Be sure to give her my regards.” Slade took out his pistol, and aimed it straight at the downed Beast Boy.

Your capacity for midnight-black humour clearly hasn't left you.;)

-Matt A-

Arrakhat

01-10-2006, 06:16 PM

Your capacity for midnight-black humour clearly hasn't left you.;)

-Matt A-

Amen to that. That last quote especially. Well I can't say i saw this coming, and I'm hoping that this mysterious fellow who snagged the nanotech stuff has something to do with your finale. Can't leave that question unanswered. Overall greatness and awesomelyness aside, I'd just like to say I'm glad you didn't unmask X in the end. That hardly counts, since it's not hard to make another or use a spare, and no identity was revealed, so bravo on that point.

Too bad this kind of episode will never come to be. Instead we wasted season five with countless cameos and boring plots. Just a question though: Was "Calling All Titans" good? I was watching the Fifth Element instead and forgot it was on.

DeathscytheVII

01-10-2006, 09:15 PM

stunned silence*

Wow. 'Slade' vs. The Titans (without Robin, for once) was one of your best fight scenes yet. You got his arrogant dialouge perfectly. I liked how he effortlessly took the Titans apart one by one. And now he has the nanotech stuff....Something tells me the Titans are gonna have problems in the near future....:evil:

Thanks :evil: Slade is without a doubt, THE best fighter in the DC universe to me...well batsy comes very very very very very very close. But i'm always a deathstroke fan in terms of combat XD.

Problems in the near future....we'll see ;)

Not for the first time, you got both X and Slade down pat. Man, Slade's "teaching" was the most blood-chilling thing I think I've ever seen you write. Almost stole the entire show, but X's cocky wit still managed to hold its own (his one-sided banter with Cheshire in particular). And is it just me, or is Robin getting X's mask a certain one-fingered salute on X's part? After all, the face behind the mask is what Robin wants to see...;)

Whilst I'm thinking about it, there's one more thing I need to say:

One of the hard parts was wondering if Slade was going to upstage X in his own episode ;) but i'm glad that you didn't find that happen. LOL and yes, one fingered salute ;) that was one thing i wish they did in the show, just to mock those fans who just WANT to see X unmasked (not knowing the disaster it will be to his character) XD

Your capacity for midnight-black humour clearly hasn't left you.;)

-Matt A-

Why thank you :cool:

Amen to that. That last quote especially. Well I can't say i saw this coming, and I'm hoping that this mysterious fellow who snagged the nanotech stuff has something to do with your finale. Can't leave that question unanswered. Overall greatness and awesomelyness aside, I'd just like to say I'm glad you didn't unmask X in the end. That hardly counts, since it's not hard to make another or use a spare, and no identity was revealed, so bravo on that point.

Too bad this kind of episode will never come to be. Instead we wasted season five with countless cameos and boring plots. Just a question though: Was "Calling All Titans" good? I was watching the Fifth Element instead and forgot it was on.

Nice, so i was able to surprise even Arrakhat XD. And Boy...don't i just love reading your speculations ;).... And in a way, i techinically did 'unmask' red x, MUAHAHHAA.

I agree, season 5 has been jumping from mediocre to bad, to a few brilliant points.

As for "Calling all Titans", i will just say it is the episode i have been waiting for since Homecoming Part 2! It redeems some of the season, but memories of "Trust", "Kole" and "Hide and Seek" still make me groan at the wasted potential this season has had.

But calling all titans was great! I don't think there has been an episode this frantic and urgent since "Haunted". The best opening to a finale ever! IMO. even apprentice.

Besides, my favourite muscle baddy, OVERLOAD, returns!

STAY TUNED FOR THE NEXT EPISODE OF THE LOST SEASON!

Episode 9 - Trial

Starfire and Val Yor are held on trial in an intergalactic court, accused of wiping out a race. While that happens, a conspiracy threatens the Galaxy, with enemies new and old.

JAG

01-10-2006, 11:09 PM

Trial! Great!:D I've been waiting for this one for a while. It'll be the first time I've ever seen Val-Yor featured (or even mentioned) in a fanfic.

Arrakhat

01-11-2006, 09:19 PM

Nice, so i was able to surprise even Arrakhat XD. And Boy...don't i just love reading your speculations ;).... And in a way, i techinically did 'unmask' red x, MUAHAHHAA.

I agree, season 5 has been jumping from mediocre to bad, to a few brilliant points.

As for "Calling all Titans", i will just say it is the episode i have been waiting for since Homecoming Part 2! It redeems some of the season, but memories of "Trust", "Kole" and "Hide and Seek" still make me groan at the wasted potential this season has had.

But calling all titans was great! I don't think there has been an episode this frantic and urgent since "Haunted". The best opening to a finale ever! IMO. even apprentice.

Besides, my favourite muscle baddy, OVERLOAD, returns!

My speculations are always fun. I'm betting Starfire and Val Yor get off scott free when their lawyer Johnnie Cochran reminds the jury, "If the glove doesn't fit, you must acquit." Starfire and Val Yor then team up with newest cameo, O.J. Simpson to look for the real killer. The conspiracy is that Martha Stewart and Micheal Jackson were let off on bribes! :eek:

Thanks for letting me know about "Calling All Titans." I'll be sure to see it, even if it does waste screentime on Overload.:p

Death58

01-12-2006, 03:59 PM

W-Woa. . .That-was-so-cool! Seriously, that update conveyed the intensity of the fight that was happening so very well that I have absolutely no clue what to really say other than-than. . .You play Slade really, really evil. The part where he hurt Raven like that was done in such a way that it actually struck a cord with me. Plus, handing her the handkerchief was a nice touch and something that I could definitely see Slade doing. Then you played X throughout this entire episode so very well that it was far above par of what the actual television show ever hoped to do. Also, this episode is darker than what you normally write for Lost Seasons, and I don't have to reiterate how much I love dark storylines. The moment with Red X at the end, him giving Robin his mask, that was brilliant. There was so much to this update that I just loved. . .As WM said a few posts up, it also had some pretty sardonic humor in it, which played very well within this storyline. . .and to say it again, Chesire kicks butt! Which, by the way, did you see her in Calling All Titans? I have no idea what else to say other than this episode was a ride. Expertly done Deathscythe.:anime:
PS-After seeing you write Slade in this particular update, it just reinforces the fact of how much I'm looking forward to you fan-fic about Slade's beginnings.

Episode 9 - Trial

Starfire and Val Yor are held on trial in an intergalactic court, accused of wiping out a race. While that happens, a conspiracy threatens the Galaxy, with enemies new and old.That one definitely sounds interesting. . .Enemies old and new? Does that mean Blackfire?:confused:

Too bad this kind of episode will never come to be. Instead we wasted season five with countless cameos and boring plots.

I agree, season 5 has been jumping from mediocre to bad, to a few brilliant points.You two think this as well? Homecoming was a BB only episode and he is my favorite Titan so I particularly enjoyed those two eppys. . .Season Five has been a mixed bag of good and bad episodes, with the shining star(at least in my opinion)being Lightspeed. I wasn't a big fan of Calling All Titans though. Although the action in it was simply breathtaking.

Pun-3x

01-12-2006, 11:25 PM

DeathscytheVII

01-14-2006, 10:59 PM

Wow, nicely wrapped up. Both fight scenes were excellent, especially with Slade taking out each of the Titans. Definitely his style, even after finding out Slade was a robot. Now, we're still in the dark about who is running things.

Too bad Chesire went and bailed on us. Not that she really had any need to stick around anyway. The rooftop fight was done very nicely. Simple things like one going for the feet while the other went for a jump kick was an easy image to create in one's mind. Cut short by the charges going off, but oh well. As soon as the roof blew up and took X with it, you knew he'd teleport from within the fires. Can't get rid of a cool character like that.

Thanks Pun ;) glad you liked the little lesson Slade taught lol. I was afraid the Rooftop fight was too short, but glad to see you like it XD. and yes...i'm pretty sure you all know what happened to X.

W-Woa. . .That-was-so-cool! Seriously, that update conveyed the intensity of the fight that was happening so very well that I have absolutely no clue what to really say other than-than. . .You play Slade really, really evil. The part where he hurt Raven like that was done in such a way that it actually struck a cord with me. Plus, handing her the handkerchief was a nice touch and something that I could definitely see Slade doing. Then you played X throughout this entire episode so very well that it was far above par of what the actual television show ever hoped to do. Also, this episode is darker than what you normally write for Lost Seasons, and I don't have to reiterate how much I love dark storylines. The moment with Red X at the end, him giving Robin his mask, that was brilliant. There was so much to this update that I just loved. . .As WM said a few posts up, it also had some pretty sardonic humor in it, which played very well within this storyline. . .and to say it again, Chesire kicks butt! Which, by the way, did you see her in Calling All Titans? I have no idea what else to say other than this episode was a ride. Expertly done Deathscythe.:anime:
PS-After seeing you write Slade in this particular update, it just reinforces the fact of how much I'm looking forward to you fan-fic about Slade's beginnings.

Wow...thanks Death, coming from the master of dark writing himself i'm very flattered ;). I have to say, the way the show has handled X thus far, well, we all know they can do a little darker, but that's what fanfics are for eh? XD. Chesire kicks butt, and yeah, she owned in Calling all Titans lol.

The Young Slade fic will have to wait though, there's still 5 epsidoes of this lost seasons left =/

Episode 9: Trial

The storm had abated now, and Jump City was finally experiencing the weather it had been most known for, bright, beautiful, and clear sunny skies. The waters of the bay glistened brilliantly as the sun was also accompanied by a gentle warm breeze.

The perfect day to introduce Starfire into a little thing earthlings call: sports.

***

“You see Star, this game is called Basketball.” Cyborg, holding the orange ball in his hand, explained patiently. “The objective of the game is to get it into that basket over there.” He pointed to the basket at the end of the court, all of which were located on the rooftop of Titans Tower.

Raven spent her time meditating at the edge of the roof platform, already losing herself in those three words she always chanted, while at the same time, feeling relaxed by the gentle breeze that blew through her.

Beast Boy meanwhile, leaned against the wall impatiently. With Raven out, this was going to be two on two, and immediately of course, Beast Boy chose Robin to be his partner, for obvious reasons. But when it came to Cy’s choice, it became apparently obvious that Star had no clue how to play the ‘ball of the basket’ and thus, prompted the shotgun mini lesson.

“And you DRIBBLE the ball Star. You can’t run with it, that is called traveling.” Cyborg lectured on.

“But how can I if I have not done the ‘packing’, and I am only going a short distance.” The Tamaranian replied in confusement.

This was going to take some time.

“That’s ok Star.” Robin finally spoke out, stepping onto the court. “We can play slow at first, so you can get used to the rules.”

“Yeah guys, I want to play BEFORE the sun goes down.” Beast Boy said in a slightly irritated tone.

Robin smirked, then took his position in front of Cyborg at center court, Starfire covering his flank.

“Let’s do this.” The Boy wonder grinned.

Cyborg had possession at first, and he waved his hand at Star, gesturing her to go down further into the court. While that was happening, the robotic titan dribbled the ball.

Robin instantly darted forward with karate-like reflexes, but Cyborg’s scanners, which he built in for the purpose of this game, picked up the increase in Robin’s heart beat and thus anticipated it. Cy shot a grin, then swerved left, avoiding Robin’s steal, but he could not move fast enough to get past Beast boy, who transformed into an octopus, all eight arms in the air.

“Here Star!” Cyborg bounced the ball down along the court, below the reach of BB’s arms, and the Tamaranian instantly found herself in possession of the ball.

“Shoot, you can do it!” Cyborg yelled in encouragement, while Beast Boy transformed into a Cheetah to quickly rush to the end of the court.

“I will try.” Starfire said innococently, what was it that Cyborg said again? Aim for the basket? She squinted her eyes to focus on the target, the nervousness getting over her. By that time, Beast boy had already reached the basket and had transformed into a monkey, jumping on top of the rim.

“Here I go!” Starfire curled her arm back, and in that instant, SHOT the basketball forward like a baseball. It all happened so fast that Beast Boy barely had time to transform back.

“EEEEEK!” The green titan screamed as the basketball obliterated not only the basket, but the rim and the post, all of which exploded into a cloud of dust and rubble as the basketball shot straight through it, launching into the horizon as a small dot until finally, it disappeared.

“Oh.” Starfire remarked. “Does that mean we are victorious?” She asked Cyborg.

“Let’s try something different.” Cyborg said, still dropping his mouth in amazement.

“How about football?” Robin suggested.

***

This one seemed better. Starfire knew the rules were simply, and clutching the ball, she dove straight for the end zone. As she flew, the wily Tamaranian swerved left and right to avoid her teammates. Cyborg was the first obstacle in her path, but Starfire cheerfully blocked his tackle, indeed, she dragged Cyborg along for the ride as he tried to slow her down by grabbing onto her arm. But the gleeful Tamaranian’s flight path was not even slowed down.

“I got her! I got her!” Beast Boy transformed into an octopus, stretching out his entire body to block off all avenues, but Starfire, once again, still cheerfully just flew above the exasperated Beast Boy.

The last obstacle was Robin and he cracked his knuckles as he prepared to intercept Starfire. He had one hand in his belt, planning on using his bo staff to pole vault into the air, that way, he could reach high enough to stop Star.

Starfire however, instead of meeting Robin head on, just stopped feet in front of him. This surprised not only Robin, but Cyborg, who suddenly found himself flying forward after letting go of her shoulder.

“AAAAAAAAHHH!” The robotic titan screamed

“Wait Cyborg! Sto-“ Robin shouted, just before the Robotic titan slammed right into him. Both football players were now piled onto the ground.

“Yes! I believe I have touched the down. Is that not correct?” Starfire asked innocenently. Then, remembering something she saw on TV, she quickly raised her arm, and threw the ball down onto the ground, like all football players do in celebration of a touchdown.

Instead however, her strength plowed the ball straight through the ground, and not just the ground, but through several levels of Titans Tower, such that smoke bursted from the hole as the footfall simply drilled through each level of the building.

Cyborg’s reply was to drop his mouth.

“Um….I call Star’s team next time!” Beast Boy shouted.

Cyborg, unnerved by the display of power, grinned slightly and went to Star.

“Starfire, Maybe its better if I introduce you to the wonderful game we call foozeball.”

At that instant however, an ominous shadow casted itself over the court, and all five titans were surprised to see that the sun was gone.

Not because of any apocalyptic thing, but because a huge space ship had floated just above the tower roof. The ship was cylindrical in shape, but it must have spanned at least a city block, resembling a giant cigar, but with a flat platform at the top where various compartments and weapons stuck out.

The titans quickly assembled, and watched as the ship lowered itself onto the rooftop, a small door opening in the ship to reveal a blinding light, followed with a light smokescreen as the ship’s insides depressurized as it opened up to the Earth’s atmosphere.

There, appearing in the ship, was a familiar sight. The old alien Centauri officer who the Titans last saw when they first met Blackfire.

The Centauri had not changed at all, he still sported the same red and black battle armour, along with the huge alien claw that made up his right hand. And just like last time, his partner was with him.

The two centauri officers stepped onto the rooftop, and instantly pulling out their badges as a sign of their authority.

Robin stepped forward.

“I didn’t expect to see you guys back here.” Robin began.

The first Centauri replied. “Nor did we expect to come here, but we are here to do serious business for the Galactic Federation. You are called. Robin, am I not correct? I am Officer Cron of the Centauri empire. I’ve come here to apprehend the one called ‘Koriand'r’.”

The rest of the titans raised their eyebrows in confusion. Koriand’r?

Cron pointed rather bluntly at Starfire, who was too astonished to reply. “Her. The one you call Starfire.”

“This must be some mistake.” Robin asserted back.

“Yeah, Star would never do anything bad.” Beast Boy defended his friend. “You sure you’re not mistaking her for Blackfire again?”

“No, my orders are quite clear. Starfire of Tamaran, you are under arrest by order of the Galactic Federation, and the Grand Centauri Empire. She has done a very serious crime.”

“If you’re taking her, we’re going too.” Robin said firmly. “We’ll see if we can clear up these fake charges.”

“Yeah, we always stick together.” Beast Boy said firmly.

“My orders were clear, to bring only the Tamaranian, and no one else.” Cron said coldly. “None of you are coming along.”

“Then she’s not going anywhere.” Robin said sternly, reaching for his bo staff.

“Two against Five,” Raven, still agitated that her meditation was interrupted, pulled her hood up to cover her face, revealing only two glowing white eyes. “I think you should leave.”

At that instant however, Cron snapped his fingers, and more compartments, four to be precise, opened up under the hull of the ship. And four figures quickly dropped out of the ship to land on the rooftop.

The titans were amazed as they saw each of the figures land on the rooftop.

One was at least ten feet tall, with a fully muscular, yet demonic body that seemed very familiar to the fire guys they fought with Trigon. This one of course, was different because of the huge wings and vicious inhuman claws he possessed, not to mention the fact that his entire body swirled violently like a fire storm.

The next one looked human, dressed in a black sleek cybernetic suit, while carrying two guns in his arms. By just looking at him, Raven could sense this man wasn’t all he appeared to be.

The other figure was another tall alien, and the team were quick to recognize the first foe they had ever faced together. The tall, scaly Gordinians. Except this one donned full battle gear, completely covered in gold armour.

The last one was very recognizable to Starfire, an old enemy whom she thought she would never see again. It had at least four legs, white with magenta stripes, Humanoid head and torso, white with black and magenta markings, and the same pair of predatory eyes she was so horrified of. The Chrysalis hunter. This time however, she wasn’t completely whole. Her left claw was mechanical, while several parts of her body were cybernetic, along with half her face and lower jaw. Evidently her last encounter with the carnivorous plant did not end well.

Cron, reinforced by his new ‘team’, quickly turned back to the Titans.

“I don’t think you understand the situation. That was not a request. Starfire is coming with us. Whether you like it, or not.”

(Fade to song)
***

When there's trouble you know who to call
Teen Titans!
From their tower, they can see it all
Teen Titans!

When there's evil on the attack
You can rest knowing they got your back
'Cuz when the world needs heroes on patrol
Teen Titans GO!

With their superpowers they unite
Teen Titans!
Never met a villain that they liked
Teen Titans!

They've got the bad guys on the run
They never stop ‘till the job gets done
'Cuz when the world is losin' all control
Teen Titans GO!

1.. 2.. 3.. 4.. Go!
Teen Titans!

***

Matt A

01-15-2006, 07:33 AM

Genius. There's just no other word for it. I can imagine Star's attempts at sports being even more comic gold on the show - the "touchdown" especially - and the revelation of Cron's "team" was a pure fanboy delight. I wasn't expecting Scourge to appear so early in the season, let alone in the episode, so that was a nice surprise. And I think I know where you're going with the guy in the suit...;)

Stirling work, as always.:anime:

-Matt A-

Death58

01-15-2006, 01:30 PM

The part where Starfire actually shot the basketball at the hoop made me laugh. . .Cyborg's reaction to it was just perfect for that moment, especially when Starfire was gleeful as he tried to stop her from getting to the endzone when they decided to play football instead. Then with all this, you ended it with a very nice cliffhanger. . .Now I have to wonder what Cron really wants with Starfire? It will be interesting to see what she is accused of. Awesome beginning to the episode Deathscythe, and I have to say, bringing the Chrysalis hunter back is just cool, and I'm sure Star has some unfinished business with it. . .Heheh!

Arrakhat

01-15-2006, 01:33 PM

And the million dollar question is, who won't appear in the lost season? Now starring Chrysalis hunter and Gordinian as new enemies, along with the space cop from "Sisters." But an awesome opening to be sure. I love Starfire travelling with the ball.:D So what's up next, a rumble or will Starfire come quietly?

List time- Villain appearances in the Lost Season:

Episode 1- Kitten, Mumbo
Episode 2- HARDAC, Overload, Sladebots
Episode 3- Dr. Light
Episode 4- Jinx, Mammoth, Seemore, Private Hive, Gizmo, Brother Blood, Kardiak, Chang
Episode 5- Malchior, Cinderblock
Episode 6- Killer Moth, Plasmus, Soul Taker, Billy Numerous
Episode 7- Overload
Episode 8- Red X, Chang, Amp, Cheshire, Slade?
Episode 9- Chrysalis Hunter, Gordinian

Did I miss anyone?

DeathscytheVII

01-15-2006, 06:34 PM

Man, just watched "Titans Together" and I must say, it was brilliant to the point where I wanted to shed Tears :crying: . I can't believe this awesome series is coming to an end. Beast Boy fINALLY gets his moment to shine! :D

Titans together is so far my favourite ep ever, replacing Birthmark lol.

great run though, awesome run. I don't think i've ever been this interested in a TV series all my life. Tells ya how awesome it is ;)

Genius. There's just no other word for it. I can imagine Star's attempts at sports being even more comic gold on the show - the "touchdown" especially - and the revelation of Cron's "team" was a pure fanboy delight. I wasn't expecting Scourge to appear so early in the season, let alone in the episode, so that was a nice surprise. And I think I know where you're going with the guy in the suit...;)

Stirling work, as always.:anime:

-Matt A-

Thanks Matt XD I've always wondered how STarfire would play sports when i saw the One on one Cyborg vs Robin basketball game in "Overdrive" hehe, it can get pretty funny ;).

And your guesses about suit guy are dead on XD

The part where Starfire actually shot the basketball at the hoop made me laugh. . .Cyborg's reaction to it was just perfect for that moment, especially when Starfire was gleeful as he tried to stop her from getting to the endzone when they decided to play football instead. Then with all this, you ended it with a very nice cliffhanger. . .Now I have to wonder what Cron really wants with Starfire? It will be interesting to see what she is accused of. Awesome beginning to the episode Deathscythe, and I have to say, bringing the Chrysalis hunter back is just cool, and I'm sure Star has some unfinished business with it. . .Heheh!

If only i can animate, god what I wouldn't give to have that little segment animated lol. As for all those questions, well, next update will reveal all ;). And i'm sure the Chrysalis hunter does have unfinished business with star lol, like Dinner ;)

Thanks for the review!

And the million dollar question is, who won't appear in the lost season? Now starring Chrysalis hunter and Gordinian as new enemies, along with the space cop from "Sisters." But an awesome opening to be sure. I love Starfire travelling with the ball.:D So what's up next, a rumble or will Starfire come quietly?

List time- Villain appearances in the Lost Season:

Episode 1- Kitten, Mumbo
Episode 2- HARDAC, Overload, Sladebots
Episode 3- Dr. Light
Episode 4- Jinx, Mammoth, Seemore, Private Hive, Gizmo, Brother Blood, Kardiak, Chang
Episode 5- Malchior, Cinderblock
Episode 6- Killer Moth, Plasmus, Soul Taker, Billy Numerous
Episode 7- Overload
Episode 8- Red X, Chang, Amp, Cheshire, Slade?
Episode 9- Chrysalis Hunter, Gordinian

Did I miss anyone?

Thanks Arrakhat ;) and how nice for you to compile the list lol, useful if i decide to do a "profile" section later on ;)

The list is perfect...save for two characters you missed in Episode 9. Fire guy, and Guy in black cybernetic suit, but ill get more in depth into them later, but there were hints as to who these ppl were ;)

JAG

01-15-2006, 07:33 PM

Genius. There's just no other word for it.

That sums it up pretty well.;)

Starfire playing sports was, as everyone else said, hilarious. And as for the villain line up: :eek:
Chrysalis Hunter, Scourge, Gordanian, Suit Guy, and the Centauri guys? This won't end well. This won't end well at all....:eek: :evil:

So what's up next, a rumble or will Starfire come quietly?

Maybe both. Star surrenders, but the other Titans won't let her be taken. Even if they are hopelessly outgunned.;)

Arrakhat

01-15-2006, 08:07 PM

And your guesses about suit guy are dead on XD

"Remember secrets are no fun, unless they are for everyone.":mad: But seriously, now I've got to know: Who is that guy? I'm itching for the next installment. Quite literally.:eek::D

Thanks Arrakhat ;) and how nice for you to compile the list lol, useful if i decide to do a "profile" section later on ;)

The list is perfect...save for two characters you missed in Episode 9. Fire guy, and Guy in black cybernetic suit, but ill get more in depth into them later, but there were hints as to who these ppl were ;)

Yes I know, I missed Scourge (if that's who it is. he seems a bit small) and the suit guy, but I didn't know how to refer to him. I don't know who he is, but I'll find out... Oh yes I will...:evil:

As for the list, no problem. My brain stores random facts and I was thinking of all the villains that appeared. Then it hit me: You've had enough appearances to compete with Season five! Short of the BoE, I'd like to see a few others make it in there before it's all said and done, and you never fail to please on that account.;)

By the way, what on earth did you think about that dreadful episode yesterday? "Titans Together," or something like that?:p (kidding).

Oh and JAG, that's a good idea on the rumble.

Matt A

01-16-2006, 09:19 AM

"Remember secrets are no fun, unless they are for everyone."images/smilies/mad.gif But seriously, now I've got to know: Who is that guy?

DS7 might well kill me for this, but I'll give you a quick hint: why would I, of all people, be excited about him putting in an appearance? As DS7 himself told me, the answer won't be spot-on, but it'll be close enough.;)

-Matt A-

Death58

01-16-2006, 11:37 AM

DS7 might well kill me for this, but I'll give you a quick hint: why would I, of all people, be excited about him putting in an appearance? As DS7 himself told me, the answer won't be spot-on, but it'll be close enough.;)Okay. . .well, now you have me going absolutely psycho as to who this character is. I suppose that I'll find out soon enough while I mull that little clue around in my head. . .I have a guess as to what you mean by that though.

As for the list, no problem. My brain stores random facts and I was thinking of all the villains that appeared. Then it hit me: You've had enough appearances to compete with Season five! Short of the BoE, I'd like to see a few others make it in there before it's all said and done, and you never fail to please on that account.;) Hehe, I could definitely think of a couple of villains that I would like to see in Lost Seasons before it ends, but the list you made Arrakhat(which is cool btw)really does prove that he's had enough appearances to rival Season Five. . .Although, in the upcoming episode(or rather final)of Lost Seasons "A Teen Titan, A True Friend", I can't wait to see how Deathscythe handles my one of my favorite Titan characters, Terra.

Arrakhat

01-16-2006, 06:23 PM

Okay. . .well, now you have me going absolutely psycho as to who this character is. I suppose that I'll find out soon enough while I mull that little clue around in my head. . .I have a guess as to what you mean by that though.
I know. I still don't get it, but maybe my thinking cap is on inside out. Whatever, I can wait. I think.:ack:

Hehe, I could definitely think of a couple of villains that I would like to see in Lost Seasons before it ends, but the list you made Arrakhat(which is cool btw)really does prove that he's had enough appearances to rival Season Five. . .Although, in the upcoming episode(or rather final)of Lost Seasons "A Teen Titan, A True Friend", I can't wait to see how Deathscythe handles my one of my favorite Titan characters, Terra.
Villains I'd like to see... Johnny Rancid, Master of Games (who I'll get to see), Steamroller... That's about it. Except for my favorite two minor villains, Warp (Who's hard to incorporate) and Chang (Who we've seen). But of Course, I like the good doctor a lot.

By the by, nice avatar Death.

DeathscytheVII

01-16-2006, 10:08 PM

Hey, just watched "things change" today...if any of you ask, those tears in my eyes are because i didn't blink for the whole 30 min :crying: lol.

Check it out though, it is the BEST finale to a series ive ever seen.

Hehe, I could definitely think of a couple of villains that I would like to see in Lost Seasons before it ends, but the list you made Arrakhat(which is cool btw)really does prove that he's had enough appearances to rival Season Five. . .Although, in the upcoming episode(or rather final)of Lost Seasons "A Teen Titan, A True Friend", I can't wait to see how Deathscythe handles my one of my favorite Titan characters, Terra.

Don't woryr, ill handle Terra as best i can ;). She was the one to get me hooked onto Teen Titans after all :D

Villains I'd like to see... Johnny Rancid, Master of Games (who I'll get to see), Steamroller... That's about it. Except for my favorite two minor villains, Warp (Who's hard to incorporate) and Chang (Who we've seen). But of Course, I like the good doctor a lot.

By the by, nice avatar Death.

Thanks ;) i love the brain.

As for the villains. I think i gave Rancid a speaking cameo in T.I.T.A.N.S...i think....lol. oh well, we'll see ;)

And as for the mystery guy, as Welshie's mate said, it won't be spot on, but it will be close ;)

I don't think i can write right now...still getting over the fact that TT is over and "Things Change" (A PUN!, MUAHAHAHAHAHA) *goes and sulks in the corner.*

Arrakhat

01-17-2006, 05:37 PM

Hey, just watched "things change" today...if any of you ask, those tears in my eyes are because i didn't blink for the whole 30 min :crying: lol.

Magnifiicent finale, i didn't expect a complete closure to the Something or other , man...more pressure on me for my Lost Seasons epilogue, but itll work on another level ;) trust me.

Check it out though, it is the BEST finale to a series ive ever seen.
...

Thanks ;) i love the brain.

As for the villains. I think i gave Rancid a speaking cameo in T.I.T.A.N.S...i think....lol. oh well, we'll see ;)

And as for the mystery guy, as Welshie's mate said, it won't be spot on, but it will be close ;)

I don't think i can write right now...still getting over the fact that TT is over and "Things Change" (A PUN!, MUAHAHAHAHAHA) *goes and sulks in the corner.*

Yeah, Brain rocks even though he lacks much logic for a super-genius brain. "Let's not retreat until they've taken down most of my men and are advancing towards me.":D You probably did give Rancid a line. Didn't he and Gizmo bet on how quickly Killer Moth would go down, and Kitten got pissed? I might need to update the list for you.

Oh, and thanks for that spoilertastic mention of "Titans Change," which I've yet to see. :shrug: It's on the front page of World's Finest too though, so I guess this Saturday will be a blast for me come 8:00 whether I know a bit of what's to come or not.

DeathscytheVII

01-17-2006, 08:20 PM

Arrakhat

01-18-2006, 04:47 PM

Aw man, sorry arrakhat, i didn't know :X, ill take it out before it does any more damage (and take out the quote from your post too.)

SORRY, i rarely let my excitement get the best of me....=/ i guess it was just that cool.

Don't worry mate, just something people might not want to see. I had the misfortune of seeing it the instant I went to the World's Finest home page. Shame they couldn't have held off with that until Saturday, but they're just doing their job. Besides, I still want to see it with the burning passion of a thousand suns.;)

DeathscytheVII

01-21-2006, 01:13 AM

ACT 1 Part 1

“Detain her.” Cron pointed coldly to Starfire, and by that command, the alien team all went into a combat stance. The flame demon instantly converted his body into a blazing inferno, while the cyber suit guy took out both of his rifles.

“This will not be as easy as last time, Tamaranian scum, I promise you that.” The Gordinian said menacingly.

The Gordinian in the golden armor, took out a trident-like weapon, that extended in his hands to become at least as tall as his massive figure.

“It has been awhile, I look forward to catching up with you my dear.” The Cybernetic chrysalis hunter said savagely, almost hungrily, her alien tongue salivating all over her robotic mouth.

“Attack!” Cron growled, and at once, all the opponents jumped at the Titans.

Robin took out his bo staff. “Titans! G-“

He was stopped as a blue stream of laser hit him from the side, tossing him across the ground before landing just feet away from where he was.

The Cybernetic suit guy smirked, the barrel of his shotgun-shaped laser weapon still smoking.

“Sorry, did I time that badly?” The man grinned smugly, both his laser rifles still pointed at Robin. “They call me Splicer.” He aimed his gun at Robin’s head.

“Was nice meeting you.”

“Azarath Metrion ZINTHOS!” A solid block of concrete suddenly shot from the side, taking Splicer completely by surprise and knocking him back a good ten meters. At the same time, the villain fired his weapons, which caused the block to explode into a cloud of dust and rubble.

“BOO YAH!” Cyborg rushed forward, taking on the ten foot fire demon, who at this point, had grown an extra five feet from the flames that lit up all over his body. He fired.

The sonic blast went straight through the demon however, and the monster just cackled in delight.

“No human technology cannot affect me. I am Scourge, leader of the firnusium!” The monster boasted. He raised his arms with a ferocious roar, revealing that at the end he wore solid gold armoured gloves, their fingertips sharp enough to look like the claws or talons of a monster.

“Well then,” Cyborg retracted his arm cannon, cracking his knuckles. “Guess we’ll have to do this the old fashioned way. The titan yelled a challenge, and charged, while all four of Scourge’s inhuman eyes gave an amused look.

Cyborg rushed forward with a lightning punch, but Scourge simply chuckled and grabbed Cyborg’s fists with his hand. Cyborg grunted as he locked arms with the demon, using every bit of his strength, only to be met by Scourge’s derisive chuckling.

Cyborg yelled furiously, sparks flew from his arms as the pressure from Scourge’s death grip took its toll on his circuits. Thinking quickly, the mechanical titan opened up his shoulders, which released a flurry of missiles into his foe. Scourge only had about a second to react as half a dozen missiles exploded all over his upper body and face.

But as the smoke cleared, the same demonic four eyed face still grinned at him.

“Pain is my friend puny human.” Scourge said in his monstrous, overpowering voice. “Allow me to introduce it to you.”

Scourge’s hands lit up with flames now, and Cyborg screamed as two fireballs sent him flying into a power generator on the rooftop, utterly blowing it to smithereens.

“I promise you, this won’t hurt a bit.” The Chrysalis hunter cackled insanely with an insatiable hunger as she circled Beast Boy slowly like a predator. “Until I rip the skin from your bones.” She raised her claws menacingly.

“Lady, you’ve got some serious issues to deal with.” Beast Boy retorted back, then transformed into a hawk to avoid a deadly lunge by the hunter, who’s claws managed to break the solid rock beneath Beast Boy’s feet in two. When he guessed that he was sufficiently far away, he transformed into a tiger and lept at the monstrosity, only to be knocked back by a vicious swing of the Hunter’s claw.

“Give it up now, you’re only prolonging your suffering.” The hunter said furiousyly.

“You gotta catch me first.” Beast Boy replied slyly, then transformed into a bird and tried to fly away, only to be hit by a blue laser that knocked the green titan from the sky.

“Not bad.” Splicer smirked as he looked at the smoking gun he was carrying, admiring the fine marksmanship he just did. “Not bad at all. Now where were we?” He turned back to Raven.

Raven chanted, taking three boulders from the ground beneath the tower, each one the size of a man, and preparing to throw them at Splicer. But the sly mercenary just stood there, taking the time to reload his weapons casually, as if he were completely oblivious to the threat Raven posed to him.

This made Raven even more annoyed, and suddenly, all three boulders surged towards their target, at a speed that could take out even the most hardened and strong villain.

But Splicer simply stood there, and Raven widened her eyes in surprise as Splicer’s body became semi transparent, so that each boulder went right through him, exploding into the earth behind the villain but otherwise, leaving him unscathed.

Finally, with his weapons loaded, Splicer went back to being solid again.

“Now that we’re ready….” He said quickly, then surged forward at Raven.

“Azarath Metrion Zinthos!” Raven said again, this time, two huge slabs of rock flanking Splicer were surrounded in black, and in that instant, flipped up, crushing him between the two surfaces.

But Splicer kept walking, and moments later he appeared through the rock, firing his weapon at Raven.

“AAAH!” Raven screamed as the blast knocked her in the stomach, throwing her back a few feet.

Robin meanwhile, turned to see Raven, but before he could even help her, his opponent took that split second where Robin had his guard down and charged with his own weapon, a golden spear with a trident-like tip. His weapon was quickly parried by Robin’s bo staff, and the two opponents were locked in arms.

“Not bad. For a human.” The Gordinian said smugly, then whipped his tail from behind to trip Robin by his feet, tripping him to fall backwards. The Gordinian then used this moment to rush forward, with every intention of digging his spear in Robin’s stomach.

The Boy wonder did fall back but used the momentum to perform a back flip, and just as quickly he used his bo staff as a pole vault, then lifted it back up to strike the Gordinian from under his chin, the massive alien staggered temporarily from this blow, and by the time he recovered, he saw Robin’s boot heading straight for his face….

Then, with a quick inhuman reaction, the Gordinian grabbed Robin’s foot and slammed the Boy wonder violently onto the ground with a painful grunt.

Starfire at this point, fired her star bolts at the two Centauri officers, but Cron and his partner simply swatted the miniature explosions aside, rushing forward and shooting their own lasers from their claws, which caused Starfire to swerve left and right to avoid the blasts.

“Please, I do not wish to fight. But I have not done any crime to you.” Starfire pleaded.

“That is for the trial to decide.” Cron said coldly, firing more shots at the Tamaranian.

Starfire dodged the shots, taking to the skies. She took this moment to survey the battle. Cyborg was thrown into the side of the wall by Scourge, while Robin and the gordinian were fighting on almost equal grounds, one using brute strength, the other, using skill.

Raven formed a barrier around herself, to shield her and Beast Boy from the double attacks by the Cyrsalis hunter, who pounded the black force field savagely in an attempt to get to the prey inside, and Splicer, who fired his plasma rifles at the weakening barrier.

Starfire was torn, seeing the battlefield around her going against her friends.

“Starfire!” Robin grunted as he was forced back by the Gordinian, who’s strength outmatched his. He gave her a nod, a plan already formulating in the boy wonder’s head.

Instinctively, she dove straight down at the Gordinian, pummeling him from above digging him right into a neat little hole in the rooftop. Robin jumped just before Starfire made this move, and threw a flurry of discs at the two Centauris who jumped after Star. One of them was instantly frozen as the freeze discs made contact, while the other was blown backwards in a series of explosions.

“Enough of this game.” Cron said savagely, breaking through the explosions and lashing out one of his green tentacles from his claws. He caught Starfire’s foot.

“Star! Catch!” Robin shouted, throwing up one of his discs and passing it to Star. But before she can even throw the disc however, Cron had whipped his arm, throwing Starfire into a wall, smashing a neat little hole through it.

Starfire struggled to free her foot from the tentacle, putting Robin’s disc in her pocket and using both arms to try and pry the green tentacle off.

However, Cron’s other Centauri partner, having broken out of his icy prison, wasted no time in throwing a stun grenade by Starfire. In a blinding flash, the entire rooftop was suddenly illuminated as a violent electrical surge paralyzed Starfire, sending her collapsing onto the ground.

It was done.

Cron raised his hand in a gesture, and instantly, his team stopped. Scourge, gripping Cyborg’s head and dangling him like a rag doll, grudgingly threw his opponent into the wall, while Splicer phased through the walls of the rooftop, reappearing behind Cron.

The Chrysalis hunter, her hunger not yet satiated, snarled and stalked back to the ship, leaving a stunned Beast Boy and Raven to tend to their injuries.

Robin however, was the one least willing to disengage. He rushed the Gordinian, but with a lightning fast turn, the alien wiped his spear and hit Robin right in the chest. The boy wonder was stopped cold in his tracks.

“Let’s go, we have no further reason to be here.” Cron nodded at his team, and instantly, they all disappeared, teleported back onto the ship before the titans could even recover. With them, was an unconscious Starfire.

Within seconds, the alien ship took off into the skies, flying into the skies until the it became a small dot. Then, it disappeared.

Robin watched in horror from the ground as the six enemies disappeared, carrying off their friend with them. He tried to get up, but found that his ribs were bruised so heavily, he couldn’t even move without a flinch of pain.

“Ugh…..” Cyborg emerged from the smoking rubble in what was once the wall, he rubbed his head in pain. “What hit me?”

“We got our butts kicked.” Beast Boy complained with a pained groan, Raven was already propping the green titan, surrounding her hands with black magic and pressing it against Beast Boy’s ankle, healing it.

“They took Starfire.” Robin said grimly. “We’ve got to go after them.”

“Only one problem with that Robin.” Cyborg began. “The T-ship’s still in repairs from last time. I just started rebuilding it.”

“Well we can’t just leave her alone! There must be something we can do.” Robin gripped his fist in frustration. Cyborg, not knowing what else they could do, bowed his head down onto the ground.

“I’ll do what I can Robin, I’ll work as fast as I can, but it will still take some time.” Cyborg put a helping hand on Robin’s shoulder. The boy wonder could only nod in reply.

An ominous quiet ushered over the battle scarred rooftop, as the four titans began wondering when they will ever see their friend again…..

***

As the spaceship blazed through Earth’s atmosphere, Starfire found herself being led through the dark, dank confines of the ship’s detention area. Behind her, Gordinian and Centauri guards prodded her forward with their weapons, while her hands were shackled in reinforced cuffs that not only tied her hands together, but also prevented her from even using her starbolts.

Scourge, Splicer, the Hunter and Gordinian all stood by the cell door, mocking Starfire as she was led into captivity.

Cron meanwhile, watched the proceedings from behind.

As Starfire prepared to enter her cell, she watched in horror as another familiar figure chained against the wall of his cell. The man looked as though he had taken a brutal beating, as bruises and wounds covered his entire body. But still, even in the darkness, Starfire could recognize the familiar face.

“Val Yor?” Starfire said, but the alien didn’t even register her presence, not even bothering to lift his head.

She turned around fiercely, facing her captors.

“Why did you bring us here? I demand to know why we are here for!” The Tamaranian shouted.

“Isn’t that obvious?” A new voice, not belonging to any of the alien team that captured her, echoed through the chamber. It was cold, calm, and metallic, almost…..robotic.

The new figure stepped forward from the shadows, revealing himself. He possessed robotic legs, long, muscular, clawed arms that almost dragged to the floor, under those, were short tentacles that hung below his arms. A five spot eye was seen on his forehead, while a sixth single eye was set in the center of this feature. Starfire met this image with stunned silence.

This new figure…..was a Locrix.

“You’re going on trial, Starfire…..for Murder.”

JAG

01-21-2006, 01:57 AM

Awsome fight scene! I expected the Titans to lose miserably, but that....that was sad. They got owned. Oh well, at least they tried.;)

Scourge was cool. So was 'Splicer'. He's definitely my favorite member of this team.

One of my favorite parts:

“Pain is my friend puny human.” Scourge said in his monstrous, overpowering voice. “Allow me to introduce it to you.”

The end was a surprise. A Locrix?! How can it be a Locrix? I thought Starfire and Val-Yor wiped them out! Well, I guess I'll find out soon enough....

Matt A

01-21-2006, 07:41 AM

That whole section was damn awesome, but there's one thing in particular that stood out for me. 'Splicer', in my expert opinion, was spot-on: not sure on the name, but you got his cocky arrogance - and his formidable talents - absolutely down pat. This line in particular...

“Sorry, did I time that badly?”

...was one that I seriously wish I'd come up with myself. Signiture 'Splicer', quite frankly. Stunning job there, and I can't wait to see what else you do with him.:anime:

-Matt A-

Arrakhat

01-21-2006, 05:20 PM

Police brutality! But seriously, the Titans got whupped in that nice action scene. I've gotta know too: How is a Locrix alive? Is Starfire a murderer, or is she in for assisted murder? Whatever the case, great stuff. I personally think that Glgrdsklechhh is behind all of this.;)

Death58

01-21-2006, 09:54 PM

Even though at this point it isn't that original to say, I can't believe how very badly the Titans got their butts kicked! That makes me so very happy!:D Er. . .Wait, I mean I like the Titans but-you know what, never mind. This was just an absolutely awesome chapter, with some twists at the end that I never even imagined, let alone see coming. The Locrix was definitely a surprise that you managed to make come out of left field, which is awesome. Now, it all comes down to exactly who's murder Starfire is in trouble for. . .and who exactly framed her for it. The plot has definitely thickened with this update, meshed with a really cool fight scene. This was really a good update Deathscythe! On a side note, I definitely agree with what you said about 'Things Change', I really loved that episode.

DeathscytheVII

01-22-2006, 07:15 PM

Thanks guys XD this really made my day

Awsome fight scene! I expected the Titans to lose miserably, but that....that was sad. They got owned. Oh well, at least they tried.;)

Scourge was cool. So was 'Splicer'. He's definitely my favorite member of this team.

One of my favorite parts:

Quote:
“Pain is my friend puny human.” Scourge said in his monstrous, overpowering voice. “Allow me to introduce it to you.”

The end was a surprise. A Locrix?! How can it be a Locrix? I thought Starfire and Val-Yor wiped them out! Well, I guess I'll find out soon enough....

Well, when was the last time we ever saw the titans majorly owned? :p with the exception maybe of Slade in Season 4 (KICK ass) I'm glad that my interpretation of the OC characters went nicely ;).

As for the Locrix, i will give you a name. He is Zasz, and the first OC i have ever written before in a fanfic. As to how he survived, well, lol i will reveal later ;)

That whole section was damn awesome, but there's one thing in particular that stood out for me. 'Splicer', in my expert opinion, was spot-on: not sure on the name, but you got his cocky arrogance - and his formidable talents - absolutely down pat. This line in particular...

Quote:
“Sorry, did I time that badly?”

...was one that I seriously wish I'd come up with myself. Signiture 'Splicer', quite frankly. Stunning job there, and I can't wait to see what else you do with him.:anime:

-Matt A-

Horray! You loved Splicer! XD, awesome. I wanted to capture his arrogant cockiness and its nice to see it worked. Hmm...i haven't really decided how big of a role to give these cameos yet, since this is Starfire's ep, but ill see how things go later on XD

Police brutality! But seriously, the Titans got whupped in that nice action scene. I've gotta know too: How is a Locrix alive? Is Starfire a murderer, or is she in for assisted murder? Whatever the case, great stuff. I personally think that Glgrdsklechhh is behind all of this.;)

HAHA i actually never thought of Police brutality ;) dang i shouldve put something about that in there. The questions will be answered however, in the next update ;)

Glgrdsklechhh? hmmmmmmmm. MAYBE :p

Even though at this point it isn't that original to say, I can't believe how very badly the Titans got their butts kicked! That makes me so very happy!:D Er. . .Wait, I mean I like the Titans but-you know what, never mind. This was just an absolutely awesome chapter, with some twists at the end that I never even imagined, let alone see coming. The Locrix was definitely a surprise that you managed to make come out of left field, which is awesome. Now, it all comes down to exactly who's murder Starfire is in trouble for. . .and who exactly framed her for it. The plot has definitely thickened with this update, meshed with a really cool fight scene. This was really a good update Deathscythe! On a side note, I definitely agree with what you said about 'Things Change', I really loved that episode.

LOL thanks alot death! Glad you found the surprise with the locrix good ;). At the risk of sounding redundant, the next part of act 1 will explain almost everything you ask ;).

And yes...Thigns change is awesome! I hear that they might consider the decision to cancel TT (Cartoon network that is.), but its only rumors for now, oh well, we can hope XD

Arrakhat

01-24-2006, 06:07 PM

As for the Locrix, i will give you a name. He is Zasz, and the first OC i have ever written before in a fanfic. As to how he survived, well, lol i will reveal later ;)

HAHA i actually never thought of Police brutality ;) dang i shouldve put something about that in there. The questions will be answered however, in the next update ;)

Glgrdsklechhh? hmmmmmmmm. MAYBE :p

And yes...Thigns change is awesome! I hear that they might consider the decision to cancel TT (Cartoon network that is.), but its only rumors for now, oh well, we can hope XD

All things in order:

Is the Locrix's name based on Zsaaz from Batman comics?

Glgrdsklechhh is clearly behind it all. He's got the face of an evil, coniving fiend. At least I think he has a face. As for police brutality, I could practically hear the beginning of Cops when I was reading that installment. So funny!:D

"Things Change" has a remote possibility of getting TT another season? That would be cool.

JAG

01-24-2006, 06:11 PM

"Things Change" has a remote possibility of getting TT another season? That would be cool.

Cool: The Ultimate Understatement;)

Arrakhat

01-25-2006, 05:03 PM

Cool: The Ultimate Understatement;)

True that. It would actually cause the earth to tremble and make Chuck Norris cry, and I'd probably run throught the streets screaming in tongues. Unfortunately, the odds of another season are low so don't count on those things happening. Not until JLU starts up again.

Pun-3x

01-26-2006, 12:41 AM

...I can't believe how very badly the Titans got their butts kicked!
Of course, this had nothing to do with the fact that !!!!SCOURGE!!!! was present and in butt-kicking fashion. ;) Granted, an Alt-Uni version, but Scourge is killer regardless of the universe he's in ;)

(Including Scourge's character origin...)

I'll go into more of Scourge's "inspiration" later on in my own thread. Getting back to this one... ;)

It's definitely good to see the Titans lose every so often. And a lot of fun to see them lose badly! Cybernetic Chrysalis Hunter was a nice twist as well. The character never seemed to interest me otherwise, but thinking of her with all these robotic replacements suddenly makes her very interesting. I like this combination of characters, and I'm quite anxious to see how the Titans decide to pursue this group.

DeathscytheVII

02-07-2006, 03:33 AM

Is the Locrix's name based on Zsaaz from Batman comics?

Glgrdsklechhh is clearly behind it all. He's got the face of an evil, coniving fiend. At least I think he has a face. As for police brutality, I could practically hear the beginning of Cops when I was reading that installment. So funny!

Actually, Zasz's name is based on a villain from Starcraft. But no, no relation to Zsaaz from batman :p

Of course, this had nothing to do with the fact that !!!!SCOURGE!!!! was present and in butt-kicking fashion. ;) Granted, an Alt-Uni version, but Scourge is killer regardless of the universe he's in ;)

Glad you liked this interpretation of scourge ;). And wow, i so didn't know he was from Transformers XD

It's definitely good to see the Titans lose every so often. And a lot of fun to see them lose badly! Cybernetic Chrysalis Hunter was a nice twist as well. The character never seemed to interest me otherwise, but thinking of her with all these robotic replacements suddenly makes her very interesting. I like this combination of characters, and I'm quite anxious to see how the Titans decide to pursue this group.

I know, i mean, when was the last time the titans go their butts handed to them? HMMMM? And yeah, one of the main complaints i have about transformation was the the chrysalis hunter was so dull. The Cybernetic parts are the logical extension to her character, seeing as she was left in a most...unfit state :p

Glad you like this impromptu team ive put together ;) trust me, the best is yet to come.

ACT 1 Part 2

Starfire felt the guards’ grip on her arm intensify, as if the Gordinians around her were quivering in anticipation of this meeting. She immediately shook them loose with her strength, though no amount of effort could detach the metallic shackles that bound her arms together.

The Locrix took a step closer, brandishing its claws until they were just inches from Starfire’s face.

“Did you really think that you could get away with destroying an entire world Tamaranian? My home?” The Locrix said with a hint of poison in his robotic voice.

Starfire was silent at first, not knowing how to take in this situation. Before this, she did not know a Locrix could talk, or was alive at any rate.

“I……I didn’t know-“ She began inadequately.

“That what? That I have intelligence?? That a ‘Crixie” is more than a mindless robotic drone? Don’t be so quick to judge me as you have judged my people.” The Locrix said with a hostile tone. He raised his arm, then with a lighting quick speed, whipped it against Starfire’s face.

The Tamaranian grunted in pain from the impact, which left a scar on her cheek, but she made no resistance, indeed, the look on her face wasn’t even hostile, but one of guilt and regret.

“I am called Zasz.”

Starfire remained silent.

“What is wrong Tamaranian?” Zasz said irritably. “Already given up? Where is that savage spark that you had when you fought on Sentien?”

“No, there is no point.…..” Starfire started, but then trailed off as she found no more words to say to the alien.

“.…….you have every right to destroy me.” Starfire said condescendingly, bowing her head down.

Zasz took his claw-like hand, and ensnared Starfire’s head in his grip. The Tamaranian shivered as she felt the cold steel fingers reach around her hair and neck.

“Yes, I do.” Zasz said, pulling Starfire’s face towards his own five eyed sensors. "

But unlike you, I believe in justice, a fair trial. Something you didn’t give to my people.” He said coldly.

Starfire said nothing, she didn’t even try to face Zasz.

“Get her out of my sight.” Zasz waved at the Gordinian guards, who obeyed instantly. Each one forcefully grabbed Starfire by her arm, and dragged her away to her cell.

“Lights out, Princess.” The Gordinian growled, then before Star could even notice it, her face met the end of a Gordinian staff. Everything suddenly became black.

Meanwhile, from outside the speeding spaceship, Earth was quickly becoming an insignificant dot in the vast blanket of space. Until finally, it disappeared altogether.

Starfire was on her own.

***

There was nothing in the cell, no blanket, no cot, not even a toilet. The floor itself was thick of slime, most likely leftovers from the last occupant. Each breath made Starfire want to gag on the stench that was thicker than any from the Glorthogs from her home planet.

There were no windows on any side of the detention cell, with the only opening being the cold bars that led into the prison hallway, which Starfire guessed must have been in the hull of this vast space ship.

All around her, she saw guards pacing, whether they were Centauri or Gordinian, they shared the same hostile dark silence towards her. And Starfire could not help but feel that the bars were there to protect her from them.

The hours passed, and the throbbing pain in Starfire’s head only got worse and worse. She leaned on the wall for some time, fighting the pain, darkness and despair that was slowly clouding over her. She passed the hours quickly, slipping in and out of conciousness.

What have I done…..I didn’t know…

She groaned weakly, the blow to her head still ringing in her ears. At first, the smell and coldness was all she felt, but soon, shapes, colors started appearing in her blurred vision. She began focusing on her surroundings.

“So….finally awake? About time” A voice echoed from the darkness within the cell, and Starfire raised her head and saw the familiar figure chained to the wall. A well built muscular man in a silver and black uniform, with a gigantic star across his chest.

Val Yor.

“And I thought you’re people were used to hostile conditions..this should seem like a walk in the park for you.” Val Yor’s voice was rank with a hostile sarcasm.

“Val Yor……why didn’t you tell us-“ Starfire began.

“I have nothing to say to you Troq.” Val Yor turned his head away from the Tamaranian, his voice still full of that stubborn pride he held from their last meeting.

“You lied to us Val Yor. About the Locrix.” Starfire said, not with anger, but with a tint of regret and outrage.

“I told you what I knew. You were the one who volunteered remember? You knew what I was going to do.” Val Yor said icily.

Starfire opened her mouth, as if she wanted to reply, but the firmness of the alien’s voice instantly killed any chance of conversation they would have in this awkward moment.

And so the two aliens stayed where they were, and hours passed by as the Gordinian star ship passed out of the Solar System, towards the Centauri moons.

***

As time passed, Starfire became more and more upset at the darkness within the cell. How she wished that there was at least a window so that she could see outside the ship.

Starfire had loved traveling through space. Aside from the skies, there was no other place where she felt more free. In space, there were no limits, no restrictions, just the unbridled joy of flight at its best. Just as Raven had seeked sanctuary in her own mind, so did Starfire find hers amongst the stars in the night sky.

The Gordinian Captain suddenly appeared next to the cell, and he grunted as he shoved a plate through the cell bars, most of its green slimy contents spilled onto the floor as it landed.

“Eat, Scum. We are almost there.” The Gordinian growled lowly.

Starfire stared at the disgusting pile of goop on the floor, which, if it was possible, looked less appetizing than any Glorg she ever cooked up. She didn’t take a bite, not in what seemed like days.

“I know the Gordinians well.” Starfire began. “Why are you doing this?” The Gordinians were a war-like race, with ambitious designs, in all their history, they didn’t seem like the law enforcing type.

“Well….” The Gordinian begun in his snake-like voice. “Aside from avenging my Commander Trogag, who was punished because of the failure you handed to him, let’s just say the Citadel has an investment in this trial. Of course, it’s best if you don’t know yet, I wouldn’t want to ruin the surprise.” The Gordinian chuckled.

“Of course, the others have their reasons as well.” The Gordinian smirked as more guards passed through the hallway, this time, to Starfire’s surprise, they were Firnusium. Legless creatures with snake-like arms and a huge, yowling, birdlike head made entirely of flames. They were the monsters summoned by Trigon a few months back. Starfire had never expected to see them again.

“Scourge, you see, claims he has no memory of how he came to be here, except that his master sent him into space to conquer. When his master was gone, we employed his valuable services, in exchange for a chance to get back to Earth, once this trial is done.” The Gordinian snickered.

“I’m sure you are already familiar with the Chrysalis hunter.” The Gordinian said with relish. “You should have seen the awful mess we found her in….of course, she blames it all on you.”

“All of the people here have something against you or that Vernathian, Val Yor.” The Captain said with a smirk.

“Well, except for Splicer, he’s just here for kicks.”

A new figure entered the jail.

“Don’t forget my genuine love of the justice system.” Splicer, donning his black and blue cyber suit, smirked. His face was not even visible, blocked out by a black visor and helmet that was part of his costume.

“The fact that there is a bounty on your head doesn’t hurt either, love.” The mercenary gave a smug chuckle.

Suddenly, the entire room shook. It was a small, short shudder, but enough to tell Star that the ship had changed its speed. They were slowing down.

The intercom came to life now, and a Centauri officer began announcing orders for the crew. Outside, Centauri and Gordinian soldiers scrambled around the detention area, putting away equipment while working on the control panels in the walls.

“Ah…Looks like we have arrived.” The Gordinian captain said smugly as he turned to look outside the prison doorway into the hall.

“Better get rested Tamaranian scum, the real fun, is about to begin.” The Gordinian smirked, then walked out into the hallway with Splicer, the prison door slowly slamming shut as they disappeared.

Once again, Starfire was left in the darkness. Alone, tired, and hungry.

***
The ship had begun entering the planet’s atmosphere, at least, that was the best Star could guess as she felt the ship shake even more than before. She had asked one of the guards where they were, and the Centauri scoffed at her, then said they were landing on one of the Centauri moons, aside from that detail, the guard didn’t see fit to continue a conversation with a Troq.

The Centauri moons were famed across the Galaxy as the major capital of the Centauri empire, a grand federation that was created to preserve order and stability within the galaxy. It was through these moons, where the Centauri found the wealth to create their empire, the fabled Centauri moon diamonds. It was also on these moons, where the Galactic Tribunal, the largest courthouse in the federation was established, where various planets can settle their disputes as an alternative to going to war. With the powerful Centauri Empire endorsing the court’s judgment, its was made sure that disputes never escalated into full scale war.

Now at the platform on this tribunal, were thousands of aliens, a huge crowd that consisted of many races from planets in the far reaches of the galaxy. The crowd was in an uproar, hissing and roaring in outrage as the Gordinian ship landed.

The cargo bay opened, and soon, dozens of guards emerged from the ship, forming a path through the angry crowd, which was clearly directed at the alien visitors.

As the hatched opened, Starfire her hands shackled together, widened her eyes at the hostile crowds that had manifested before her. Even as the Gordinian and Centauri guards took their place beside her, the various aliens in the crowd suddenly became inflamed, shouting curses of ‘Troq’ and ‘Murderer’, while some even threw rotten food, and other unidentifiable objects, at her.

The words stung, but through all this, Starfire simply closed her eyes, and silently took all the abuse. She didn’t fight back, didn’t even react. Instead, she stared ahead at the imposing sight of the Tribunal Tower. It was a huge golden tower, which seemed to stretch as high as a mountain, thousands of metres into the air. The complex itself, was extremely large. In all directions, as far as the eye could see, Starfire saw golden walls and towers, which twisted into spires as they reached higher into the sky. While thousands of spaceships buzzed around the skies busily, like an Earth market at rush hour. Also, unlike the comforting purplish skies of Tamaran, or the beautiful crystal blue skies of Earth, the skies of the Centauri moons were dark, oppressive, and gloomy. As if someone had drawn a permanent veil over this world.

Val Yor gritted his teeth as he was led to the Tribunal, right behind Starfire. In front of both of them was Zasz, accompanied by his ‘team’, who slowly made their way through the giant double doors of the tribunal.

Before they could enter however, more guards stepped into their path, and Starfire was surprised to find that these guards were very familiar.

Dressed in the royal purple of royal body guards, and wearing the same metallic shoulder armor she had worn once before, the Tamaranian guards, at least a dozen of them, blocked the pathway with their spears.

Zasz, seeing this demonstration, raised his hand, and the entire procession grinded to a halt.

“It looks like some blokes are trying to pick a fight.” Splicer said smugly, taking out his laser rifle.

“Excellent..….Fresh Meat.” The Cyrsalis Hunter said in a hungry voice.

Zasz raised his hand again, and his ‘team’ took the hint. The Locrix would repeat himself again.

“What is the meaning of this?” The Locrix demanded.

“In accordance with the rules of the Galactic Federation, the accused, if a member of royal blood, is entitled to be held in the custody of her guardians during the trial.” A man said in a rough, yet commanding voice.

“I am sure you are familiar with that rule.” A new person stepped out of the double doors, and Starfire widened her eyes as she saw him. He was a full grown adult, who had long auburn hair and a beard that covered most of his face. The man was dressed in the same manner as all Tamaranians, save for the scarred right eye he sported and the crown he wore on his head.

He was Galfore, Emperor of Tamaran.

“Galfore!” Starfire cried out emotionally, but before she could say anything else, Galfore gave a nod to Starfire, intending to finish his conversation with Zasz.

“I am fully aware of that. But my sources indicate that Koriand’r gave up her rights to the Tamaranian throne.” Zasz said suspiciously.

Galfore’s eyes instantly lit up in rage at this, “I may be Emperor of Tamaran, but I am still the princess’ guardian, and make no mistake.” He stepped forward, shaking the very ground with his seemingly pent-up rage. “She is royal blood, pure and simple. Unless you wish to challenge that?”

Zasz didn’t move a step. For a moment, it looked as though both parties were going to go all out at each other.

Cron, the Centauri officer, took this time to step up. “The Emperor has a point, the rules of the Centauri Tribunal are not to be disobeyed.”

The Locrix, seeing the Centauri step up to the plate, gave a smug laugh. “Very well, seeing as it is regulation. But do not think that you can escape justice Tamaranian. It will come soon enough.” He turned to Starfire.

Almost immediately, the Gordinian guards dropped Starfire, who was too weak to even stand. Before she fell though, she was caught by the giant, yet gentle hands of Galfore, who rushed forward to help her.

“He however,” Zasz pointed to Val Yor, who was bounded by his guards. “will remain in my custody.”

“No! He will come with us!” Starfire, still weak from her time in the cell, suddenly found strength to resist.”

Both parties suddenly went into battle stance again, but before the situation even got out of hand, Zasz made the first move.

He turned around, completely ignoring Starfire.

“Let’s go.”

With that, they disappeared through the massive hallway of the tribunal court.

Starfire wanted to run after them, but she found herself too weak to resist Galfore’s grip.

“Calm yourself down Starfire…” The massive giant said softly, in a parental tone. “I will do all I can to help your friend. I swear to you princess.”

“Galfore…..I have never been so happy to see you.” Starfire said quietly. It was as though the darkness and despair which had engulfed her for so long in that prison ship had finally disappeared, and the Tamaranian was straining to keep the tears from her face.

“A K’norfka never abandons the one they take care of, Starfire. When I heard that they were hunting for you, I decided to travel here to defend you. But before that, you must rest then tell me everything. The hardest part is yet to come.”

Starfire nodded weakly, resting her head against Galfore’s arm. More guards gathered around, helping Starfire up. The Tamaranian looked at the dark sky, amazed at how the many stars of space were snuffed out by the black clouds, turning the sky into a vast black emptiness that seemed to tell of the trials that lay ahead.

Arrakhat

02-07-2006, 06:19 PM

Matt A

02-08-2006, 07:28 AM

So, Star and Val-Yor are being put on trial for something they actually did?! Well, that was unexpected: from the synopsis, I was assuming they'd been set up. And I'd never really thought about the Locrix stuff that way before...which I suppose was kinda the point. That's my interest fully perked-up.:anime:

“Well, except for Splicer, he’s just here for kicks.”

A new figure entered the jail.

“Don’t forget my genuine love of the justice system.” Splicer, donning his black and blue cyber suit, smirked. His face was not even visible, blocked out by a black visor and helmet that was part of his costume.

“The fact that there is a bounty on your head doesn’t hurt either, love.” The mercenary gave a smug chuckle.

Seriously, that was beyond amazing. I nearly wet myself laughing.:anime:

-Matt A-

JAG

02-08-2006, 02:17 PM

So, Star and Val-Yor are being put on trial for something they actually did?! Well, that was unexpected: from the synopsis, I was assuming they'd been set up.

I think they are being set up. I suspect Blackfire's involvement here....

As for Galfore showing up, that was unexpected.

Post more ASAP! :D

Death58

02-08-2006, 07:57 PM

I suspect Blackfire's involvement here....Yes, I'm beginning to wonder that as well. . .Blackfire would certainly have more than just a little bit of hatred for her 'dear sister'. Anyways, the update was actually really, really, really awesome! I loved how brutally Starfire was taken away to her cell, and just how damn mean everyone is to her. The fact that she didn't even put up a fight, because of her guilt, made the scene that much more powerful. I-I just loved it! Uh-Sorry. . .Erm-Well, there was just so much about this update to love; Galfore made an appearance to be with Star, Zasz's team(just in a general sense through this entire episode), Trigon's minions, and the hints at some stuff in play that seems a little more than fishy to me even though Star did blow up all those Locrix.

The Locrix seems too smug, which makes me wonder what is being staged here. I can't believe Val Yor knew that little about his enemy, so something is up.Arrakhat also has a very good point about Val Yor. . .I don't think he would have any sleepless nights setting Starfire up, after all he calls her a Troq, and last time they met the two didn't leave on good terms.

There was nothing in the cell, no blanket, no cot, not even a toilet. The floor itself was thick of slime, most likely leftovers from the last occupant. Each breath made Starfire want to gag on the stench that was thicker than any from the Glorthogs from her home planet.I just had to quote this part. . .I have a strange fascination with Starfire having terrible things happen to her, and that cell certainly falls under bad. Does that make me a bad person?:p I think it's more than obvious that I liked this one Deathscythe, keep it up.

Arrakhat

02-09-2006, 02:21 PM

I think they are being set up. I suspect Blackfire's involvement here....

I'm hoping Deathscythe deosn't go down that path since we've seen Blackfire
trying to set up Starfire twice already. A third time is just crazy, but Deathscythe's always handled the stories well, so now's his chance: Deathscythe, impress me. Do it now.

Oh, and Death58, you're not a bad person, you're just sick and twisted, and quite possibly homicidal. Not that I have a problem with that.:ack::D

DeathscytheVII

02-10-2006, 02:41 AM

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm. Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm. The plot thickens, and Val Yor is still has a stick in his butt. The Locrix seems too smug, which makes me wonder what is being staged here. I can't believe Val Yor knew that little about his enemy, so something is up. Oh, and Scourge is sweet without even doing anything.

HAHA yup, poor Val Yor. Oh well, some say he deserves it ;).As for the Locrix and everything, that will be explained. Dunno why you automatically assume a set up? ;) ;).

And yes, Scourge is sweet.

So, Star and Val-Yor are being put on trial for something they actually did?! Well, that was unexpected: from the synopsis, I was assuming they'd been set up. And I'd never really thought about the Locrix stuff that way before...which I suppose was kinda the point. That's my interest fully perked-up.:anime:

YUp, the one thing i got from watching TROQ was the hypocrisy the characters were showing. Star didnt like val yor prejuding her? well wasn't that kinda what they did to the locrix?

Glad you're interested ;) And im very very glad you loved my play on Splicer's lines hahaha

I think they are being set up. I suspect Blackfire's involvement here....

As for Galfore showing up, that was unexpected.

Post more ASAP! :D

DUN DUn....:) Always with the set up eh? lol. And Galfore, well, he's in there cause i like him XD, he plays a pretty useful part though i should say.

Yes, I'm beginning to wonder that as well. . .Blackfire would certainly have more than just a little bit of hatred for her 'dear sister'. Anyways, the update was actually really, really, really awesome! I loved how brutally Starfire was taken away to her cell, and just how damn mean everyone is to her. The fact that she didn't even put up a fight, because of her guilt, made the scene that much more powerful. I-I just loved it! Uh-Sorry. . .Erm-Well, there was just so much about this update to love; Galfore made an appearance to be with Star, Zasz's team(just in a general sense through this entire episode), Trigon's minions, and the hints at some stuff in play that seems a little more than fishy to me even though Star did blow up all those Locrix.

Of course blackfire would have a bit of hatred, but......i won't say much, but maybe you guys are digging too deep when expecting a set up? ;) something IS going on :p i can assure you though hehehehehe. I was so worried that i botched up writing Starfire's guilt, but i'm very very pleased that you were satisfied with it death!.

I just had to quote this part. . .I have a strange fascination with Starfire having terrible things happen to her, and that cell certainly falls under bad. Does that make me a bad person?:p I think it's more than obvious that I liked this one Deathscythe, keep it up.

Nah, you're not the only one death. I think it stems from the fact that the real show Starfire barely had anything real happen to her, when was she ever truly under a challegning/life threatening situation? when was she ever hurt before? (Closest i can think of is..HLIF). WHen will they stop attaching her to Robin every chance they get?!

I'm hoping Deathscythe deosn't go down that path since we've seen Blackfire
trying to set up Starfire twice already. A third time is just crazy, but Deathscythe's always handled the stories well, so now's his chance:

HAHA welll...we'll see won't we? XD.

Deathscythe, impress me. Do it now.

Will do!! when i get.....writers stuff....in my head :|

ANYWAYS, here's some art for the lost season. Recall the Cybernetic Crysalis hunter? Well, here's a sketch of her i drew
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/TreizeV/Huntercopy.jpg

Pun-3x

02-11-2006, 03:16 AM

Saw that pic posted at TTGo. Very nice. :)

And yeah, Zasz did seem familiar--I just couldn't place my finger on it! (haven't played SC in years)

Well, at least there's some comfort for poor Starfire in that Galfore is there. This whole thing is starting to get thick. Well, okay, it was pretty thick when it first started, it's just getting worse by the post! (and yes, this is a good thing :D )

I'm still having fun with all these enemies coming together because of the trial of one person. Nah, there's more to all this than some desire for justice. It's a front. We just gotta figure out for what.

Or, you can just tell us in your next chapters. :p

Arrakhat

02-11-2006, 01:03 PM

HAHA yup, poor Val Yor. Oh well, some say he deserves it ;).As for the Locrix and everything, that will be explained. Dunno why you automatically assume a set up? ;) ;).

And yes, Scourge is sweet.
;);)? What was that!? You winked at me, what is this? It's a freakin' conspiracy, I swear...:D

HAHA welll...we'll see won't we? XD.

Will do!! when i get.....writers stuff....in my head :|

ANYWAYS, here's some art for the lost season. Recall the Cybernetic Crysalis hunter? Well, here's a sketch of her i drew
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/TreizeV/Huntercopy.jpg
Good lord, that's nice. I've really gotta gind a way to get my cartoony JL onto my computer to share, 'cause this is inspiring.

Death58

02-11-2006, 11:39 PM

Woa. . .really enjoy the picture Deathscythe. The fact that you got the Chrysalis hunter that close to the actual design on the show, and still managed to add cybernetic bits that look very much in the style of TT, it just kinda blows me away. I try to draw in the style of the Titans, and it works out badly. . .very, very, very badly. Yep, I'm definitely impressed DS.;)

What was that!? You winked at me, what is this? It's a freakin' conspiracy, I swear...So is that a conspiracy in the actual story line of it, or a Deathscythe causing a conspiracy? That's a lot to think about. . .Oh well, hopefully Galfore has a solution to some of Starfire's problems. Or not.:evil:

Arrakhat

02-12-2006, 11:12 AM

So is that a conspiracy in the actual story line of it, or a Deathscythe causing a conspiracy? That's a lot to think about. . .Oh well, hopefully Galfore has a solution to some of Starfire's problems. Or not.:evil:
It's a double conspiracy... Deathscythe plans to trick me and make me think that it's not a conspiracy. Or did he know that I'd realize that and it actually isn't a conspiracy and he's tricking me into thinking it is? Inconceivable!:D

JAG

02-12-2006, 09:44 PM

Awsome picture!:D

DeathscytheVII

02-14-2006, 07:03 PM

Thanks guys ;) and now, the next chapter of the 'conspiracy, or not conspiracy' trial XD

Act 2 (part 1)

The gathering of aliens outside the tribunal settled down now as Zasz turned away. His team, grumbling that a chance to fight was passed up, grudgingly turned to follow their leader.

“You sure were pretty confident about letting our prey go.” Scourge said in his monstrous voice that was threatening enough to overwhelm even the strongest of hearts.

The Locrix however, kept walking on. “Whether she is in custody or not, it does not matter, the outcome of the trial will still be the same. She knows that too.”

Scourge grunted, then continued dragging the unconscious Val Yor along. The alien team entered the tribunal doors, leaving Starfire alone with Galfore.

“Ignore the varblurnelk, Starfire.” Galfore said as he led Starfire away from the scene. “I will see what I can do for your friend, but now, let us rest.”

Starfire nodded quietly, then followed Galfore as he led her to another part of the building.

***

Starfire was led deeper into the tribunal building, passing gigantic hallways filled with thousands of hostile and alien faces, some of them hissing as she passed. For that, she was glad that Galfore had also brought an escort of Tamaranian guards, who were just as hostile towards the outsiders when it came to protecting their princess.

Eventually, pass the halls, and up a long winding step of stairs, Starfire reached her room. It was nothing like the grand halls of Tamaran, nor her royal suites, but it was nonetheless, infinitely better than the squalid cell that Zasz had given her during the journey to Centauri.

Galfore was quick to make sure Starfire was well attended, ordering for a doctor to check up on any injuries she may have sustained in the last fight, as well as ordering servants to draw up a bath and bring in Starfire’s old uniform, which resembled her Blackfire’s. Complete with that, was her old armor and crown, which Galfore insisted she wore so as to forward his case that she was still a member of the Tamaranian royalty.

“I am sorry princess, that we do not have any other clothes for you, but your earth garments were hard to procure, and this will serve our purposes better.” Galfore said with a soft smile as he handed her the uniform.

“It does not matter Galfore, Thank you.” Starfire smiled, in what seemed like the first time in days.”

“Good, well now my little bumgorf, it is time for you to eat and gain your strength back, then we can talk.”

Warm food came afterwards, generously from the Tamaranian chefs that Galfore had brought over. On her table were piles of glorg and jelly-type foods that Starfire loved, and soon she found herself eating as much as Cyborg.

Yet, despite all the comforts, she was still a prisoner. Centauri guards stood outside the door at the head of the stairs leading into the main tribunal hall, trading glares with the Tamaranian royal guards that had escorted Starfire up the room.

As Starfire ate, she began to tell Galfore everything.

“So that is what they are accusing you of? Surely it is a lie, I know it cannot be true! I will act as your defense.” Galfore said firmly.

“No, there is nothing to defend.” Starfire bowed her head down, closing her eyes and turning away from Galfore in shame. “I am truly guilty.”

“I have raised you since you were a little bumgorf Starfire, you are as gentle as they come. Even if it is true I do not believe you will do this intentionally.” Galfore said with a parental voice.

“If it is anything to do with that Vernathian-“ Galfore’s face lit up in anger.

“No, I do not believe Val Yor knew as well.” Starfire replied back.

“Then we will find a way to save your friend as well.” Galfore said confidently.

Starfire nodded quietly, trying to hold back all the emotion she was feeling at having Galfore take so much trouble for her, to trust her so, even when she was clearly wrong.

“I am sorry Galfore.” Starfire said sadly.

“Why is that my Bumgorf?” Galfore asked.

“You have said you expected great things from me, and I have let you down. I set out to help others, but what I didn’t know was that I would come to bring such great harm as well, perhaps I should just stop-”

Starfire bowed her head down again, but this time, Galfore raised her chin with his finger.

“We all make mistakes Starfire, that isn’t reason enough for you to stop following your heart. It is not your fault, so do not keep blaming yourself.” Galfore replied gently. “Besides, we must focus on more important matters, you have a friend in this as well.”

Starfire sniffed, wiping away a tear from her eye, she didn’t know what to say to Galfore.

“I know….”

Galfore nodded. “I will do my best, it has been a long time since I have attended a tribunal proceeding, so let me see if this old K’norfka still has a few tricks.” He gave Starfire a hopeful smile.

“But before this,” Starfire replied back. “I wish to visit someone.”

“As you wish Princess Starfire, as you wish.” Galfore nodded. “But please remember, we do not have a lot of time.”

***

It took Starfire at least half an hour to find the detention cells, primarily because the Centauri guards escorting her were not very cooperative in helping Star find the place.

The cell blocks were a complete contrast to the royal quarters she enjoyed just moments before, indeed, it made Zasz’s cell look like a five star hotel.

Starfire tried to maintain her composure, ignoring the jeers of various alien prisoners who seemed to try and lunge through their bars to attack her. Snarls, growls and shouts filled the dark hallway, but the Tamaranian put up a brave front, even though inside she was feeling uneasy. The Centauri guards, far from offering protection, were taking quiet pleasure from watching the Tamaranian squirm a little.

At last, she reached the prison cell, and carrying a plate of food, she walked into the dark room, where a solitary figure was chained against the wall. The man groaned as the light from the doorway entered the room, blinding his eyes momentarily, as if it was the first time in days he had seen light.

Val Yor grunted when he saw Starfire in the doorway.

“So I see this place has a soft spot for Troq Tamaranians. Glad to see you’re enjoying the accommodations.” Val Yor said rudely.

“Val Yor, I have come to bring you food.” Starfire said gently, then she placed the plate she had been carrying at Val Yor’s feet.

The alien was silent at first, but then scoffed. “What am I supposed to do? Eat it with my seven foot tongue? Mocking me huh?”

Starfire shook her head quietly. “No, I am just trying to be, as the earth people call it, ‘nice’”

“Well you sure are doing a fine job at it.” Val Yor’s voice dripped with a hostile sarcasm.

Starfire ignored it however. “I will untie you if you wish, so that you may eat. But first, I want to ask you, why did you do it?” She asked sincerely.

Val Yor seemed temporarily disarmed by the random asking of this question, but he put on his soldier face again and replied coldly. “The Locrix were threatening to invade others, I told you that.”

“Then tell me, did you truly know the Locrix could be like this?” Starfire asked.

“No, I didn’t know, they were always mindless machines before, not living things.” Val Yor shook his head.

”Then how will you defend yourself” Starfire replied back.

Val Yor turned his head away from Starfire, replying with a hostile grunt. “I don’t have to say anything more to you, Troq.”

“Please, do not call me that Val Yor. I do not know what you are going through, but I’m only trying to help-“

“Don’t talk to me like you’re all high and mighty, or my friend, Tamaranian.” Val Yor replied back angrily, as if he had just managed to hold back from calling her ‘troq’ again. “I remember last time, I offered you my apology, and you spat it back in my face. That wasn’t good enough for you? Did you expect me to go on my knees and beg?”

Val Yor was almost breathing heavily, as if he had pent that up for some time now. After spewing that, the alien was quieting down.

Starfire was quiet for a moment, as if suddenly realizing shamefully that maybe Val Yor was not the only one who was acting like that. Val Yor judged her because she was a Tamaranian, and Starfire had thought that a man like Val Yor would never change his ways.

Starfire nodded, clasping her hands and closing her eyes. “Yes, For that I am truly sorry, but if we are to survive this together, please…I want us to trust each other.”

Val Yor said nothing, he just stared straight ahead.

Starfire sighed quietly, taking the hint, she turned and prepared to leave.

Just then however, Val Yor began speaking.

I’ll tell you one thing now Tamaranian, you watch yourself, I hear our judges weren’t picked because of their sunny personalities.” Val Yor said sternly.

Starfire smiled a little bit, nodding quietly. “I will ask you to watch yourself as well Val Yor, but do not worry, I shall see if I can do anything to help now.”

“Why ARE you helping me?” Val Yor asked.

“Because I do not wish to see others hurt just because of a mistake I made. “Starfire said in a friendly voice.

Val Yor nodded quietly, as if he were lost in his thoughts.

With that, she closed the door and proceeded back to her room to prepare.

The Trial was starting.

***

The Tribunal assembly area was designed like a Greek Amphitheatre. From a birds eye view, it was a semi circular shape, with the round end consisting of a huge row of seats, resembling an earth stadium. From the bleachers, were thousands of alien races, of all different shapes and sizes, each of them shouting and jeering as they waited in anticipation of the prisoner.

On the other side of the huge stadium sized courtroom, was the judge’s panel and the jury’s panel, which was similar to the earth design, save for the fact that this one was at least three times bigger. Between the bleacher seats and the judging panel, were two steel desks, one for the accused, and one for the present.

At this point, two processions entered the tribunal room, one of them was Zasz, followed by two Centauri officers who presided in the prosecution.

The real jeers and boos however, came when Val Yor and Starfire were brought out, next to each other. Starfire, now wearing her traditional Tamaranian armour with the thin crown that framed her face, had both her hands bound together by a metallic handcuff, just like Val Yor.

They were however, escorted by the friendlier Tamaranian guards, one of the concessions Galfore had managed to squeeze out of the tribunal. But that was it, now, it was up to the judges.

“ORDER!” The judge said in a female voice as she took her place on the Judge panel. Slamming her hammer down onto the table.

The Judge was dressed up in a red robe. But what made her even more imposing, was the fact that she wore a skull-faced mask, with cold robotic eyes and an alien symbol stamped on her forehead.

As the assembly quieted down, the jury took this time to sit in their seats, these ones were just as imposing.

“Keep strong Starfire.” Galfore whispered into Starfire’s ear and gripped her arm tightly. “Just remember that.”

Starfire nodded quietly.

The jury, all twelve of them, wore the same red robes and skull masks, except that each of them carried a specific symbol with them. Each juror had a different weapon, such as a sharpened executioner’s blade, a slipknot from a noose, poisoned vials for lethal injections, and electroshock batons. Needless to say, this wasn’t the kind of jury that would hand out parking tickets.

“We are Judge and Jury,” The judge and jury said in a monotonous voice together, which sent chills down Starfire’s spine.

“And we are gathered here today to seek justice, to punish those responsible for a crime so vast and despicable that it has never before been recorded in the archives of the tribunal.” The Judge said in an authoritarian voice.

“The accused, are Captain Val Yor of Vernathia, and Starfire of Tamaran. We will begin with the opening proceedings.”

Judge gave the prosecution side of the court a firm nod and another figure, this time, a centauri officer, stood up.

“The prosecution will call out our first witness, Zasz, the Locrix of Sentien.”

Various murmurs echoed through the chamber as Zasz stepped forward. As if on cue, the center of the courtroom floor began to rumble, as a trap door hissed open, revealing a machine that slowly lifted its way up to the courtroom floor.

Zasz made his way to the machine, where several Centauri officers were already taking wires from the alien device and connecting them into the plugs built into Zasz’s robotic body. When they were done, the Locrix’s back was completely hooked into the Machine.

“Zasz, are you ready to begin the memory reclaimation?” The Centauri officer asked.

“Yes.” Zasz droned monotonously.

“Good, then tell us a little about yourself, and how you encountered the accused.” The Centauri officer, an arrogant and crude officer, asked.

Zasz nodded, and instantly, the entire wall of the courtroom was quickly converted into a transparent material, where already, images of Sentien’s final moments were shown.

The audience became quiet as the screen was filled with images of the Teen Titans fighting the Locrix in their invasion of Sentien. The screen started out with Beast Boy transforming into a dinosaur and crushing several locrix beneath him, then it panned out to Starfire and Val Yor.

“Before I was created, the accused were already attacking my planet.” Zasz said, directing the narrative of the images on the screen.

“It did not take long for the mother core to process that it was losing its battle, and so, in an attempt to retrieve the situation, it sought to create a new generation of Locrix, ones that were not dependent on the mother core, those with a free will and intelligence that could help drive off the invaders.”

The screen then showed images of a metallic body being cast by the Locrix machine, who were creating Zasz. As the final process of the machine building process was completed, Zasz’s five red eyes were seen through the smoke.

“I was first, and last of them.”

The screen quickly cut off to another scene, where Zasz was already at the head of an army of Locrix rushing to the central power core.

“I was supposed to lead the first defense team to drive the invaders out, but by then it was too late. The core was destroyed, and my people were gone.”

Starfire, at hearing this, bowed her head low.

The next scene showed the central power core shaking, with images of Starfire flying out of the facility, holding Val Yor by her shoulder. Explosions rocked the screen moments later, and soon, all the Locrix with Zasz deactivated, leaving him along amongst a pile of wreckage.

The images ended there.

“I admit that we Locrix were a warlike race, but my people subjugated planets, we never destroyed them.” Zasz finished his testimony, then unplugged himself from the machine and walked back to his seat.

“That is all the prosecution has for now.” The Centauri officer finished off, just as the jeers of the crowd got louder.

“ORDER!” Everyone quickly quieted down. “Does the accused have anything they wish to say?” Judge asked Starfire and Val Yor.

“It was for the safety of the Galaxy, that’s all I’ll say.” Val Yor replied in defiance, where he was replied by even more hostile shouts from the audience.

Starfire said nothing.

“Very well then, we shall recess so that my jury can have time to process the story.” Judge hit her hammer onto the table again, and soon, the entire room broke into clamorous discussion.

Zasz turned around now, walking quietly along the aisle that led to the back rooms of the tribunal. Before doing so, he passed Starfire, Galfore and Val Yor. Galfore gripped his fists, trying hard not to tear the Locrix to pieces right there and now.

Starfire was closest to Zasz as he walked, and as Zasz passed by, he whispered softly, so that only Starfire heard what he was saying.

“Do not worry Tamaranian, it will all be over soon enough.” The Locrix said icily, then left.

Matt A

02-15-2006, 06:50 AM

Arrakhat

02-15-2006, 05:50 PM

"Will the guilty... accused please rise!" That's what this felt like. Still, I liked Val Yor's explosion at Starfire. I didn't think of it that way, but I can see what enraged him. As for the Locrix, besides Zsas, the others were all mindless drones. Zsas admitted that himself. Wouldn't the destruction of the Locrix fall under property damage rather than murder?:)

Death58

02-16-2006, 10:06 PM

Yay, Galfore kind of came to the rescue of Starfire and Val-Yor. . .Wait-I guess not. . .Although he did get them a bit nicer accomadations, even if it was only food for Val-Yor, and some Tameranian guards. Anyway, I would come up with a brilliant way to describe how brutal the jury was, but I do believe that Welshie's Mate and Arrakhat already did that for me. I'll just say that I don't see this turning out completely okay. Somebody is going to have a really rough time before this is all said and done. Also;

“Do not worry Tamaranian, it will all be over soon enough.” The Locrix said icily, then left.That right there added a very nice and sadistic touch to the end of the update, not to mention that I have no idea where this is going to go. I'm really enjoying this one a lot Deathscythe.;) I can't wait for the next part of this. . .

DeathscytheVII

02-18-2006, 02:02 AM

Is it just me, or is that the single most rigged trial in the history of the known universe? When a trial starts with the phrase "And we are gathered here today to seek justice, to punish those responsible for a crime so vast and despicable that it has never before been recorded in the archives of the tribunal", you know you're in deep trouble. And it's good to see Val Yor being his usual philanthropic self, in a not-good-at-all kinda way.:evil:

-Matt A-

Biased maybe, but rigged? hehe, you'll find out. But yes, i hope im never in a trial like that, (if i ever get into one that is ;))

"Will the guilty... accused please rise!" That's what this felt like. Still, I liked Val Yor's explosion at Starfire. I didn't think of it that way, but I can see what enraged him. As for the Locrix, besides Zsas, the others were all mindless drones. Zsas admitted that himself. Wouldn't the destruction of the Locrix fall under property damage rather than murder?:)

Yeah, at teh end of Troq i was kidna like "Damn, star's being a jerk too!" XD aw wells, maybe its just me. Anyways, as for 'living things' my thoughts are, if you destroy one locrix unit, it is a mindless drone, but taking out the mother core, which was in essence, the conciousness of the whole locrix race, could be considered murder, sice the locrix were a recognized alien race.

Yay, Galfore kind of came to the rescue of Starfire and Val-Yor. . .Wait-I guess not. . .Although he did get them a bit nicer accomadations, even if it was only food for Val-Yor, and some Tameranian guards. Anyway, I would come up with a brilliant way to describe how brutal the jury was, but I do believe that Welshie's Mate and Arrakhat already did that for me. I'll just say that I don't see this turning out completely okay. Somebody is going to have a really rough time before this is all said and done. Also;

Quote:
Originally Posted by DeathscytheVII
“Do not worry Tamaranian, it will all be over soon enough.” The Locrix said icily, then left.

That right there added a very nice and sadistic touch to the end of the update, not to mention that I have no idea where this is going to go. I'm really enjoying this one a lot Deathscythe.;) I can't wait for the next part of this. . .

Ah yes, the jury was brutal ;) im surprised no one mentioned the fact that they all carried an executioner's weapon with them. Oh well, sure you all noticed XD

--

ANYWAYS, ACt two of the SHORTEST trial in history ;) enjoy!
Act 2, part 2

After half an hour, the trial continued. More time passed as Starfire watched Zasz bring up more and more character witnesses, these ones aimed at Val Yor, who testified that Val Yor overstepped his authority as a captain of the Vernathian military by taking the law into his own hands.

The prosecutor, a Centauri officer with a smooth and sincere voice, as if he were implying that he regretted prosecuting a fellow officer, offered a damning account of Val Yor’s time serving in the Galactic forces, his lone wolf attitude, history of disobeying commands, and blatant disregard for the rules and safety of others. He even offered an account as to why Val Yor was so obsessed with the Locrix, but quickly stopped the story when Val Yor became enraged at that story being retold. The Centauri officer passed that in respect, there was plenty of other evidence to condemn Val Yor already.

“Captain Val Yor was ordered to not pursue the Locrix by the Vernathian high command. Yet, he chose to disobey those orders, taking matters into his own hands. Is that really the actions of an honorable officer?” The prosecutor asked, pacing back and forth between the judge panel and Val Yor, while the Vernathian remained stoically silent during the proceedings.

There was not much to do in defense of Val Yor, but Galfore could at least do his best to protect Starfire, who just sat quietly in her chair. When it came his turn to undergo questioning, Galfore stepped forward without hesitation.

-------

Galfore turned to the judge, continuing the ten minutes of questioning he had already undertaken.

“Princess Starfire is a gentle and kind person, of good character. To suggest that she would do such a thing is…preposterous!”

“But yet, you saw clearly that it was her who took part in the destruction of Sentien. Actions speak for themselves. Is this what Tamaran does? Condone the horrific actions of their royal blood?” The Centauri prosecuter replied.

“I meant no such thing!” Galfore protested.

“Oh really then.” The Centauri continued. “Then how about the power each member of your royal line holds, don’t you think that you should be accountable for all that power?”

“We Taramanians trust each other to uphold our ideals, we never seek to abuse our powers.” Galfore replied back.

“And yet, the defendant has made no attempt to defend herself, she even admitted that she did destroy the Locrix race. Wouldn’t that be an abuse of power? “

“That is not the same thing, she did not intend to-“

“The Prosecution is finished with questioning.” The Centauri officer said coldly, then went back to his stand.

Galfore’s face was fixed with rage as he went back to take a seat beside Starfire.

“That fellow makes me want to split his head with my axe.” Galfore said furiously.

“On Earth, Robin tells me there are people like him, they are called. Loy-ERS.” Starfire said.

“ENOUGH.” The Judge banged on the hammer. “We have heard enough, the jury will convene to discuss the results.”

Everyone rose out of respect, and Galfore placed a hand on Starfire’s shoulder.

“I am sorry Starfire.” The giant said solemnly.

“You have done everything you could Galfore. There is no need to apologize.” Starfire smiled with resignation.

Suddenly, the robotic eyes of the jury lit up in a bright red light, as if they had finished with their decision.

“Well, that didn’t take long.” Val Yor scoffed.

“We have heard enough. From the evidence presented, we find the defendants, Starfire of Tamaran, and Val Yor of Vernathia, guilty of genocide.” The Jury spoke in a single robotic monotonous voice.

Judge then turned her mask to face Starfire and Val Yor, banging on the mantle one last time to end what was possibly also the shortest trial in the Tribunal’s history.

“Starfire and Val Yor, you have been found guilty, the sentence, will be execution. It shall be carried out in ten petacycles. Court adjourned!” The judge hit the hammer again, and soon, the hundreds of aliens in the crowd began breaking into conversation, with murmurs filling the air.

It was done.

While this was happening, Zasz sat quietly, taking the time to fully observe the verdict and digest the information.

“Splicer.” Zasz quietly accessed his internal communicator.

“It is time.”

***

There were no more pleasantries now. Both Starfire and Val Yor were thrown in the same cell, this one was the worst yet, with the skeletons of former occupants lying in the dark corners of the dungeon.

The hospitable Tamaranian guards were now replaced by the hard line Centauri officers, who pushed the defiant Tamaranian guards away, despite their protests. Val Yor scoffed quietly, sitting despondently in the corner while Starfire took this moment to enjoy the one luxury she had been granted in this inhospitable place. This cell had a full view of the night sky. Unlike the black clouds that covered the planet, the tribunal holding cells were placed in a tower so high, that they were able to go above the clouds and stare at the night skies.

Despite her execution sentence, Starfire could not help but feel some comfort in those stars, that her friends were living on safely among them somewhere. Free.

She had thought about seeing her friends one last time, but what could she say to them? That she had become a murderer? They will undoubtedly try and rescue her, possibly dooming themselves and the Earth.

No…she thought. I am not worth the effort, I deserve to be here.

The Centauri guards at the door made more grunting noises, as if acknowledging the presence of some unwelcome guest.

Starfire moved slowly through the darkness, feeling her way around the dungeon walls until she finally saw the light shine through the bars.

It was Galfore. The giant even at this point had obviously not given up hope, and his gigantic hands pressed the bars almost as if he wanted to crush the cage and break her out right then and there.

“Do not worry Starfire, i’ll do everything I can to get you out of here, that trial was a mockery! It barely lasted any time! That locrix, he must have had a hand in it! I will plead for a delay period.” Galfore said in determination.

“No….please Galfore. You have done more than enough. Now, I must face the consequences of my actions.”

“Princess Starfire…..” Galfore replied in a pained voice, only to be interrupted as the doors to the cell were opened again. Both Tamaranians gasped in surprise as they saw the new figure enter the cell block.

It was Zasz.

Galfore instantly roared, jumping to his feet and rushing the Locrix.

The Centauri guards were faster however, and a good half dozen of them jumped at the giant Tamaranian, restraining his powerful arms while others shot goo-like whips to tie his feet. They were barely strong enough to halt the massive emperor, and Galfore’s fist stopped only inches from Zasz’s face.

“I can see that my company is not good for some people, remove him from the cell.” Zasz said in his robotic voice. “I wish to speak to the prisoners alone.”

The Centauri guards nodded, then quickly took the struggling Galfore out the door.

When the Tamaranian emperor was outside, trying to fight his way past the guards, the door slammed shut, leaving Starfire alone to talk with her accuser.

“So….nothing left to say Tamaranian?” Zasz said smoothly.

Starfire said nothing, she just bowed her head even lower as she stood behind the bars of the cell.

“No, there is nothing I wish to say.” She finally replied.

“Good, because I have a few things I want to say to you.” Zasz began, walking closer to the cell bars.

“You may think that I want to have you executed Starfire, but that is mistaken. I have no interest in any harm coming to you.” The Locrix spoke sincerely.

Starfire widened her eyes at this statement. “Then…..this trial, why was I put on?”

“Because I believed even you deserved a fair trial Tamaranian. Despite what your friend may think, I did not do anything to influence the tribunal’s ruling, nor did I ‘fix’ it in any way. I wanted to see justice at work and sure enough, you were guilty.” Zasz said calmly.

“You say you wish to not harm me? And yet I am to be executed?” Starfire was finding this situation growing increasingly absurd. Just moments ago, she had thought that this would be the last hours of her life, and that she would try and spend them with as much dignity as she could, but this? This was a farce.

Zasz chuckled.

“No, you won’t be, I will make sure of it. Before your sentence is carried out, I shall have you released. No harm will come to you.”

Starfire could not believe her ears. Was this Zasz simply trying to taunt her with a flash of hope before her execution? To put hopes inside of her that he could easily crush within the next sentence? Starfire leaned forward now, clasping the bars with her hands, she didn’t want to, but her eyes were beginning to show a sign of hope.

But the Locrix was being extremely honest, he sounded sincere. “No harm will come to you.” He repeated again.

“I despise the death penalty Starfire. It may be hard for you to believe, a mindless drone having opinions, but I believe that it is barbaric, too uncivilized.”

“Don’t. Misunderstand me though.” Zasz’s voice suddenly went completely dark, opposite in the hopeful tone had conveyed just a second ago.

“I think the death penalty is uncivilized because it is indiscriminate. No matter what horrific crime the offender does, each one will always get the same punishment. A swift end. I simply don’t believe in that.” Zasz continued.

“What are you saying?” Starfire asked apprehensively.

“Like I said before Starfire, I believe in justice.” Zasz droned on mechanically. “And with justice, comes retribution. A special crime, deserves a special kind of punishment.”

He leaned in closer towards the bars, so his face was just inches from Starfire’s. He whispered the next words, barely audible, but all too clear to Starfire.

“I had to watch my planet die with my own eyes, and now, you will too.” Zasz finished off.

Starfire gasped in horror, just as Zasz pulled out a holocube from his robotic arm.

A holographic image instantly appeared above the device, it showed the schematics of a weapon. It was a simplistic design, a large laser cannon similar to the one that Prof. Chang had used on them months ago, only this one was massive, perhaps at least ten times as large.

“It’s a planet destroyer. The Centauri empire’s greatest weapon, located right here. How else can the tribunal get so many races to cooperate in its proceedings? Ironic though, isn’t it? That a galactic federation bent on preserving the peace in the galaxy, owns a weapon powerful enough to destroy a planet.” Zasz chuckled. “Say…Earth?”

“You will do no such thing!” Starfire lunged at Zasz, but the bars were too strong, she couldn’t go through.

“Please! This matter involves only you and me, there are many innocent people on Earth!” Starfire pleaded.

Zasz turned the holocube off, putting it coldly back inside his robotic compartment in his arm. “If there is anything that I have learned, it is that justice is blind. It is cold, and objective.”

The Locrix continued on. “That is how it is fair, that is how it should work. It does not take into consideration anyone's feelings or personal connections to others. In order to achieve pure justice, you must be willing to sacrifice anything in order to achieve it. ANYTHING.” He said this last one with a fanatical resolute tone.

“And right now, I will restore the balance between us. The death of a whole people demands something more than just a simple imprisonment or execution.” Zasz finally finished.

He turned, heading towards the door while a helpless Starfire looked on.

Before leaving, he turned around to see Starfire one last time.

“Do not worry, you will be released eventually, when my team is done with this tribunal.” The Locrix added on, and as if on cue, the very ground shook as the sound of distant explosions rocked the building.

“Which should be now.” The villain said smoothly.

He turned to Starfire again.

“Farewell, Tamaranian.”

Then he closed the door.

***

“What’s going on?!” Cron, captain of the Centauri guards, yelled to his subordinates as more blasts tore through the building. The Alien congregation was in full panic as thousands of spectators got up from their seats in the courtroom, trying to push their way out.

Cron turned to his officers. “Check the source of the blasts, I want a full team dispatched to investigate.”

The Centauri officer saluted. “At once sir!”

At that instant however, both officers were cut off as a huge blast tore through the gigantic double doors that led into the courtroom. Each door was torn off its hinges, and thrown a good few feet as they collapsed into dust and rubble.

More screaming came from the audience as blue laser blasts emerged from the dust, hitting several Centauri guards as well as causing more explosions to ring through the courtroom.

Through the smoke, was the silhouette of a very familiar figure, who was flanked by a small army of mercenary gunmen.

“There’s nothing to worry about folks!” Splicer said casually as he wore his full blue cybernetic battle armor. In each hand, he carried a laser rifle so large that he had to prop each one on his shoulders.

“Remain calm and stay in your seats people!” Splicer said as put down on large gun, using his free hand to load a few small shells into his other gun. When he was done, he instantly lifted the gun, and cocked it with loud clicking sound. He then turned to the audience with a dark smirk.

“You make much better targets this way.” He then lifted the two guns and fired. The aliens panicked as an entire section of the bleachers exploded from two shells, leaving two giant craters where three rows of seats used to be.

“FIRE!” Cron shouted as a dozen more centauri’s with guns arrived, they all let loose a furious barrage of lasers at Splicer.

Only for some reason, the villain wasn’t going down. He went semi transparent, and the lasers simply went through his body, hitting the wall behind him.

“I was wondering how long it would take for you blokes to get here.” Splicer smirked, lifting the two giant rail guns he carried and aiming them at the Centauris.

Then the explosions…and screams began.

***

Security in the planet destroy chamber was tight, at least fifty Centauri guards barricaded the doors with anything they could find, while the others armed themselves with a whole slew of laser rifles and cannons.

“Don’t let anyone in!” The Centauri episode shout as all fifty guards aimed their rifles at the door, which was soon being pounded on by some outside force.

All the guards concentrated their cannons on the doorway as well.

Suddenly however, an inhuman screech echoed through the chamber, coming from all directions.

The Centauri guards felt shivers down their spines as they heard it, they quickly focused on the rest of the room, the rooftops, the windows….

Nothing.

“Forget that,” The commander replied, “Focus on the do-“

The screech came back, louder than ever, and the commander soon found himself swept away by a dark inhuman shape. The rest of the soldiers watched helplessly as their commander disappeared into the rooftop, screams echoing through the room.

Seconds later, the commander’s body fell onto the ground.

“Finally, a chance to feast.” The Crysalis hunter laughed, then lunged at the soldiers.

“FIRE!”

At that moment, the doors to the chamber exploded in a red inferno as a giant fireball tore its way into the cannon room.

Several soldiers were thrown back by the intense heat as the ball quickly formed into a humanoid shape, a demonic figure with wings that spread out like some savage bat.

“Give it up freak, you’re outnumbered.” The Centauri guards all trained their rifles at Scourge, there must have been at least thirty of them left.

Scourge did not reply, he merely crossed his arms and watched the look on the Centauri’s faces as the floor began melting into molten lava, and from the ashes rose at least fifty more firnusium.

“Now, we can begin.” Scourge roared with laughter.

***

Starfire slammed her entire body against the bars, but they did not budge an inch, even as she used all of her immense Tamaranian strength.

“We must find a way out of here Val Yor!” Starfire pleaded with her fellow captive.

“You think I haven’t tried? Besides, didn’t you say you wanted to accept the consequences?” Val Yor said coldly.

“Yes, but they are mine alone to accept, not my friends, we must save them!” Starfire replied, hitting her shackles against the wall in an attempt to break them.

“How can you be so uncaring? Were you not a captain? A hero?” Starfire, slightly outraged by Val Yor’s indifference, shot back.

“That was in the past.” Val Yor said broodingly. “Besides, I’ve already done enough, the Crixies are gone, there’s nothing else for me to do.”

Starfire was stung by the coldness of that statement, as if Val Yor had felt no guilt over the crime they were convicted for.

Starfire suddenly stopped her attempts to free herself, and instead, approached Val Yor, until she was a few feet away from him.

“Why do you hate the Locrix so much?” Starfire asked, to Val Yor’s surprise, in an sincere and amicable voice.

Val Yor grunted defensively, as if avoiding the question, but Starfire’s honest face slowly cracked away at his composure.

“I wasn’t always a captain by myself you know. I had a crew, a bunch of good friends who traveled the galaxy with me. Doing missions, bringing the criminals in, that kind of stuff.” Val Yor began quietly.

“Then, on a routine scouting mission, I was supposed to make contact with a newly discovered race, on behalf of the galactic federation. This race, was the Locrix.”

Starfire suddenly began to realize where this story was going.

“They ambushed us, I was injured in the fight and I told my friends to bail. They would not listen, so….they knocked me out. Next thing I knew, I woke up inside an escape pod. I never saw them again.”

He turned to Starfire now, and for the first time ever, she saw something in his face that she never thought she would see on Val Yor.

Vulnerability.

“So….you attacked the Locrix, for revenge.”

Val Yor said nothing, his soldier-like face was back on. He grunted again.

“How do you feel now?” Starfire asked with concern.

“I don’t know Starfire. I just don’t know.” Val Yor replied.

“Well, you have your revenge now….and because of that, my world is going to pay for it.” Starfire said, even though she didn’t mean it to be harsh, the meaning was still the same. Val Yor had lied to them from the very beginning.

“I lost my crew Starfire, my friends. Would you have done any different?” Val Yor replied seriously.

Starfire shook her head, this time, standing up. Her eyes lit up with a green determination as she violently blasted the shackles on her hands. With a determined cry, the Tamaranian forced her hands apart, shattering the pieces of the shackles across the entire cell with a ferocity that surprised Val Yor.

“I do not wish to find out.” The Tamaranian said with determination.

She quickly turned back to Val Yor. “Val Yor, we have had our differences in the past, and I am sorry for your pain, but now we must focus on the danger now. My planet…my friends in danger. So I ask you now Val Yor, please…..help.”

Val Yor was surprised at this request, because he was still in his despondant mood. However, the determination and sincerity in Starfire’s eyes was enough to lift even him out of his gloom.

“I guess you aren’t as soft as I thought you were Tamaranian.”

Val Yor gave a smirk.

“Well…. no one’s gonna say Captain Val Yor of Vernathia backed out from a fight.” He stood up, and Starfire instantly ripped his shackles to pieces.

“I’m in.”

Matt A

02-18-2006, 08:07 AM

JAG

02-18-2006, 09:45 AM

Okay...even for a robot, Zasz is pretty damn cold-blooded. That justice speech of his was just plain chilling, if only because his actions are actually justifiable. Which is scary...and fairly unpredictable, too. Let's not forget that. This story has yet to not surprise me.:anime:

Oh yes, and I just need to say this one thing: Splicer finally gets to kill people! And in style!:anime:

-Matt A-

I agree with him.

“There’s nothing to worry about folks!” Splicer said casually as he wore his full blue cybernetic battle armor. In each hand, he carried a laser rifle so large that he had to prop each one on his shoulders.

“Remain calm and stay in your seats people!” Splicer said as put down on large gun, using his free hand to load a few small shells into his other gun. When he was done, he instantly lifted the gun, and cocked it with loud clicking sound. He then turned to the audience with a dark smirk.

“You make much better targets this way.” He then lifted the two guns and fired.

Probably my favorite couple of lines in the chapter. Well, this is about to be one heck of a showdown, so post more quick!:)

Death58

02-18-2006, 12:18 PM

Woa. . .Starfire and Val-Yor actually getting along with eachother? This is a turn of events that I did not see. I thought that Val-Yor had something to do with the trial, but it appears that this conspiracy theory is wrong;). In fact, what you came up with for a scheme is pure brilliance Deathscythe. Simply put, "You destroy my planet, I destroy yours." Although, Zasz is doing this for justice and in a very sick, roundabout way, you can almost sympathize with him for doing this. . .but not completely, after all this is a pretty evil plan. Then we get to see Starfire get thrown into a very, very bad cell once again, with her favorite person:p . . .and a bit of taunting from Zasz(I really enjoyed when Galfore was about to tear Zasz apart). Then the one thing that blew me away the most is that you actually brought an emotional side to Val-Yor. Never in a million years did I actually think that I could sympathize with a guy like that, and yet here I am feeling really sorry for how he lost his crew, and simply put, became blinded with the thought of vengeance. This is really, really building up to a boiling point Deathscythe, and I couldn't be more excited to see exactly where that boiling point is going to take us. This was. .wow.

Arrakhat

02-18-2006, 05:25 PM

Yeah, at teh end of Troq i was kidna like "Damn, star's being a jerk too!" XD aw wells, maybe its just me. Anyways, as for 'living things' my thoughts are, if you destroy one locrix unit, it is a mindless drone, but taking out the mother core, which was in essence, the conciousness of the whole locrix race, could be considered murder, sice the locrix were a recognized alien race.
Murdering the Mother Core is like murdering a queen ant, or a central computer. If anything Starfire and Val Yor only murdered one sentient being. :mad: Where's their Loy-er? They sure as hell could have used one.

Zasz turned the holocube off, putting it coldly back inside his robotic compartment in his arm. “If there is anything that I have learned, it is that justice is blind. It is cold, and objective.”

The Locrix continued on. “That is how it is fair, that is how it should work. It does not take into consideration anyone's feelings or personal connections to others. In order to achieve pure justice, you must be willing to sacrifice anything in order to achieve it. ANYTHING.” He said this last one with a fanatical resolute tone.

“And right now, I will restore the balance between us. The death of a whole people demands something more than just a simple imprisonment or execution.” Zasz finally finished.
Cold calculating, and terrifying. It's that emotionless logic that chills me whne I think of a truly evil villain. Gotta know though, why blow up Earth instead of Tamaran?

Pun-3x

02-18-2006, 10:24 PM

Being I missed the last chapter, I get more reading material at once. :anime:

These last parts were excellent. The findings of the court were no surprise, but it was interesting to find out it was Zasz that decided to let Starfire go.

Of course, then you find out why, and we're back to reason again. (odd as that sounds.)

So, our bot wants to destroy Earth as an 'eye-fo-an-eye' trade-off. Really likes to go for the top, doesn't he?

Oh, and there was a point where I think you made an error:

“I am sorry Starfire.” The giant said solemnly.

“You have done everything you could Val Yor. There is no need to apologize.” Starfire smiled with resignation.

The way this part of the story is written, I think you meant Galfore. Thought you'd want to fix that ;)

Excellent story, and I can't wait to see where this heads. Mostly, I want to see if the rest of the Titans will show up. :D

DeathscytheVII

02-25-2006, 09:38 PM

Matt Yay, glad you liked the speech ;) i really enjoyed thinking of a good motivation for Zasz as a villain, i'm glad it worked. Zasz is my first TT based OC so im very happy! And yes, no story can be complete without splicer killing people eh?

JAG Will do! :D

Death Wow death, i'm glad you thought it was brilliant ;) as for the conspiracy, well yeah, guess it wasn't really a conspiracy, but i'm so happy you found the other plot 'brilliant' hehe. As for Val Yor, Its a shame the show never had a chance to explore that even more :(

but thanks for the good word!

ArrakhatAH, well that can be up for debate ;) but in this context, its important because the villain of the story believes so.

Yay my villain was called truly evil! XD. As for the Earth over Tamaran thing, Zasz may be doing this for Justice, but he knows Star considers her real home on Earth XD Doesn't mean he wont' go for an optin that will hurt her alot.

Pun Glad you liked it XD the eye-for-an-eye thing actually works here, because it is justifiable. As for the error, Val Yor, Galfore, they sound the same, i was afarid i made that lol thanks for finding it.

Act 3, part 1

The cell doors were violently blasted apart as two sets of lasers burned their way through the reinforced steel. One was the red heat vision from Val Yor’s eyes, while the other was Star’s green eye beams.

The door gave one last heavy sigh as detached from its hinges, slamming down on to the ground with a loud rumble.

“Didn’t know you Tamaranians could do that too.” Val Yor commented with a smirk.

“There is much about my people you do not know.” Starfire smiled.

“Well, princess, let’s get this on.” Val Yor cracked his knuckles, then went out into the hallway. Starfire, still in her old battle armor, followed.

Before any of them could fly away however, several weapons clicked through the smoke. And Starfire and Val Yor turned to their right and saw through the dust the silhouettes of at least a dozen Centauri police guards, all of them aiming laser weapons at them.

The fun did not stop there though, on their left side, were thirteen insidious figures, each one dressed in a red executioner’s robe and wearing a skull mask. The Jury made no sounds as they each took out their weapon. One carried a scythe while another an electro-shock baton. The hangman of the jury reveal a slipknot from his robes while others carried rifles and axes. The Judge, herself, was armed with a sword.

“I hold you all in contempt.” The Judge hissed. “You cannot hope to escape your sentence.”

“I guess they really did mean it when they said Justice was blind.” Val Yor commented sarcastically, noting the explosions that were resounding from the floors below them. The very ground was shaking from the chaos that Zasz’s team had thrown the Tribunal in.

Starfire didn’t reply, instead, she got herself ready for a fight. Her hands and eyes were all charged up and glowing. She was pulling no strings now, not with so much on the line.

“ATTACK!” Judge yelled, and instantly, the Centauri guards and Jury rushed the two fugitives.

Suddenly however, the walls behind Starfire and Val Yor exploded, revealing a large hole where several more figures emerged. One of them was a benemoth, holding a spear that looked as though you could impale an elephant on it.

“If you wish to even lay a hand on Princess Starfire, you will have to go through me.” Galfore roared, and behind him, more Taramanian guards, brandishing spears in fully body armor.

“Arrest them all!” Judge shouted in fury, and suddenly the two groups of Tamaranian guards and Centauri soldiers descended into a vicious melee. The guards managed to close the distance before the Centauri’s could even fire their weapons, forcing many to the ground.

More explosions rocked the chamber as laser fire erupted between the Tamaranian and Centauri guards. A Centauri guard roared a challenge as he grabbed a Tamaranian spear, throwing the alien into the wall before being set upon by two more guards. Galfore meanwhile, smacked a Centauri with his arm so hard that he flew right into the ceiling, crashing down unceremoniously onto a party of his comrades.

Starfire watched as Val Yor took on the Jury, punching the robed masked man with the electroshock plugs only to be ambushed from behind as the member with the slip knot pulled the rope around Val Yor’s neck, intending to choke him. The Vernathian grunted with strain as he tried to throw the jury member off his back, in front of him, the members with the axe and poison needles closed in.

“Val Yor!” Starfire charged her hands with starbolts, but before she could even attack, Galfore walked behind Val Yor, picked up the jury member like a small toy doll, and threw him into his two other compatriots. The three enemies grunted as they all fell to the ground like nine pins.

The Judge, and the other members of the jury closed in.

“Go on Starfire! We can take care of these guys.” Val Yor said in his usually cocky attitude. “Don’t you have a planet to save right now?”

Starfire, realizing that there was little time to spare, powered down and nodded. She flew off, leaving Galfore and the Tamaranian emperor and guards fighting, causing more rumbles and blasts to echo throughout the chamber.

There was no other option. To save her home, she had to take down Zasz’s team, even if it meant doing it by herself.

***

Starfire, wasting no time on using the stairs, immediately plowed through the floor onto the lower levels, where the carnage caused by Zasz’s team was still ensuing. As Starfire floated above what’s left of the courtroom, she saw civilians running away from the chamber in panic, along with the bodies of several unconscious and wounded Centauris lying on the ground. Laser burns on the walls and smoking craters were tell tale signs of the battle that had taken place here.

“I hope I am not too late.” Starfire said with concern as she flew towards the entrance to the main hallway.

Before she could do anything however, she suddenly felt the breath getting knocked out of her. A powerful force descended from behind her, gripping her waist and pulling her straight down onto the ground with a thunderous crash.

Starfire was temporarily dazed by the sudden attack, finding her reflexes too slow to cope with her assailant. She gazed up, and in horror, found that a robotic claw, with a predatory and savage shape to it, held her by the waist.

“Nonsense my dear,” The Crysalis hunter cackled, salivating through her half robotic mouth. “You’re just in time for dinner.”

Starfire grunted as she tried to squeeze out of the massive death grip, but to no avail, the Cyrsalis hunter was stronger this time around.

“But first.” The monster pulled Starfire up to her face. “I’ll soften you up a little first.”

With a ferocious growl, the Hunter threw Starfire against a section of the wall, which exploded into a cloud of rubble. The Hunter, with an arachnid-like stance, walked right up to Starfire, who was still lying in the rubble.

“You have caused me much pain, my dear. I can’t have you eaten yet until I have you experience the same thing.” The Crysalis hunter hissed, then lifted back its claw, pointing it straight at Starfire, intending to use it as a spear.

Starfire rolled out of the way as the claw stabbed down, causing slabs of the floor to fly up with an immense force.

Starfire rushed forward, punching the hunter in the jaw with such force that it forced the large monster to reel back by a couple of steps, stopping temporarily.

The Hunter however, merely turned back to face Starfire, and cracked her mechanical jaw back into place with a sickening crunch. Before Starfire could even comprehend the horror she just saw, the hunter attacked.

Starfire fired more bolts at the hunter, but the monster swapped them away with ease, when she got close enough, she swung at Starfire with her massive claw, knocking the Tamaranian back into the bleachers, throwing seats and rubble into the air.

“I don’t care what Zasz says.” The Hunter smirked evily. “I will have my revenge.” She lunged again, and this time, Starfire took to the skies, firing a massive barrage of Starbolts at the monstrosity. The Tamaranian circled the hunter, firing continuously and desperately with her eyes and hand blasts, but it did nothing.

The Hunter cackled as the starbolts bounced off her cybernetic armor, then she jumped into the air, intending on grabbing Starfire with her claw. The Tamaranian swerved out of the way, dodging the claw, but not before the Hunter revealed a set of blades on the side of her claw that weren’t there a second before. Starfire screamed in pain as she was cut in the arm by the blades.

Both combatants landed soon after, the Hunter with a loud explosion of dust, while Starfire floated back down to Earth with a deep wound, clutching her left arm in pain.

“Aw, what a nasty wound. That must hurt.” The Crysalis hunter said in a soothing almost lady-like voice. She clamped her claws, which at the same time, revealed more blades that shot out of her arms and tips of her claws.

“I must help. DEEPEN IT.” She rushed Starfire, who responded by firing her eye beams.

The Crysalis hunter screamed in pain as the beams shot clean her one of the robotic parts of her body, but her face instantly reverted back to the savage and primal look she displayed all day, and she ran even faster, ignoring the laser fire that was burning a hole into her shoulder.

Starfire braced herself as the Crysalis hunter made contact, slamming Starfire’s entire body against the wall with her claws, and holding her there like helpless prey.

“It has been so long since I’ve tasted sustenance.” The Hunter said hungrily, almost regrettably. “Since I’ve felt whole and nourished.”

“But oh well, I guess It won’t hurt to give this a try.” The villain laughed, she opened her mouth, which immediately expanded to monstrous proportions, like snake’s mouth. Revealing a monstrous set of teeth and a purple-greenish tongue that slithered out like a snake. She was going to eat Starfire right then and there.

Starfire cringed back as she saw the tongue reaching out to wrap around her, to pull her into the depths of that nightmarish black hole filled with teeth. Starfire struggled, grunting as she tried to push back the claws with all her strength.

“No, you….. will…… not.” She said in determination, forcing the claws apart from her little by little.

Her eyes lit up now, and she shot at the alien’s massive tongue, scorching it and sending the Hunter reeling back in screeches of pain.

The next move was fast as Starfire dove forward, aiming to punch the hunter straight in the head. The monster saw this, and lifted a claw to block the attack. Blocking a claw swipe with her good hand, she punched at the Cybernetic hand with all her might.

Starfire felt a massive jolt of pain as her cut up arm made contact with the cold steel, but soon enough, her punch went straight through, breaking the hard outer shell and meshing with the circuitry inside.

“AAAAAAHHHHHHHH!” The hunter gave an inhuman scream.

Starfire gritted her teeth in pain, while the Crysalis hunter reeled back screaming. Starfire then delivered a high kick right up the Hunter’s chin, and the massive monster flew several dozen feet into the air, flying across to the other side of the room where she landed against the wall, breaking it apart and burying herself in a mountain of rubble.

The Hunter was down.

Starfire landed back onto the ground, catching her breath as she clasped her wounded arm. The pain throbbed with each beat of her heart, but she sucked it in, and continued moving.

***

Starfire painfully made her way down to the lower levels, where the sounds of battle had stopped. Whatever was going on, it seemed that the fight had ended.

The Tamaranian found herself breathing heavily. She had never felt this much adrenaline before, back on Earth, she would always count on one of her friends to back her up, knowing full well that by working together they would achieve victory. But now, she was all alone, fighting against the very enemies who had managed to beat her team together.

She fought back the urge to feel hopelessness. She had always been thought of as helpless by her enemies, her shy and timid attitude reinforced this opinion no less. But this time was different, Star took this time to remember all the fighting tips she had learned while on Earth, every thing she could remember from all battles she had fought, whether alone or with her friends, she would need it all now if she were to overcome this trial. She regretted not spending more time training with Robin…surely he could have taught her some more-

Robin! Starfire immediately remembered something.

She reached into her pocket, and pulled out the circular disc that she had caught from Robin right before her capture. The Gordinian guards, arrogant as usual, did not even bother to search her.

Although she had no idea how to use it, it was her only weapon right now, that and her starbolts. Keeping the object in mind, she pocketed it back and flew towards her next goal.

She entered the new chamber, this one a narrow hallway that led to the armory. It did not take her long to find, she only had to follow the trail of craters and bodies.

Starfire instinctively swerved to the left, avoiding a blue laser blast that completely destroyed the pillar she was flying beside, causing it to crumble onto the ground.

The Tamaranian scanned the room to find no movement, nor could she confirm the source of the laser.

But soon, her attacker revealed himself anyway.

Phasing through one of the pillars, was Splicer, carrying two large rail guns in each arm.

“Going somewhere Princess?” Splicer chuckled, then aimed his rail guns at Starfire. Two laser streams immediately burned through the ceiling, missing Starfire, who swerved out of the way to avoid the blasts.

Starbolts instantly slammed the ground afterwards, as the Tamaranian wasted no time in counter attacking. But Splicer simply stood there. Standing calmly as Starfire’s massive barrage blasted holes and craters into the floors and walls around her target. Starfire stopped however, when she realized that Splicer was assuming his transparent form.

“Took you long enough to figure that out.” The villain phased back to solid form now, and fired.

Starfire arched back in the air, letting the show pass by her face, missing her by just inches, and blowing a hole right in the ceiling.

“I’ll give you a hint.” Splicer said as he charged up his second rail gun, aiming it carefully at Starfire. “You want to be moving as much as you can.”

The next barrage of blasts completely took Starfire by surprise, instead of one giant beam, the weapons fire multiple short bursts.

Starfire, taking note of Splicer’s movements, dove straight at the villain, braving through the barrage of explosions, and taking great care that they did not distract her. A green starbolt was charged up in her hand now, and she took careful aim. And fired….

…blowing up one of Splicer’s rail gun barrels. The villain grunted as the weapon exploded in his hand, lightly scorching his arm in laser burns.

The mercenary growled as he threw away his now useless cannon, taking the other one and aiming it with both arms. “Alright, that’s it! You’re gonna-“

Starfire had already punched him in the face, kicking Splicer’s other gun out of his hand and sending it crashing to pieces onto the ground.

The villain staggered back, grasping his chin as his arm shook from Starfire’s kick.

“Guns, bare hands. It’s all the same.” Splicer shrugged. Then charged Starfire, both his fists curled up as if he were preparing to punch.

Starfire obliged, charging straight at the mercenary, and ignoring the stabbing pain in her left arm. The two combatants shouted their charges, and they closed the distance between them quickly.

Splicer however, stopped, and just inches from Starfire just before she charged at him, pulled out two laser pistols from under his sleeves.

“Just kidding.” The villain smirked.

Two blasts rocked the room as the lasers hit Starfire, exploding upon impacting and sending the Tamaranian flying back into the wall.

The mercenary laughed. “I can’t believe you actually fell for that, then again, I got to hand it to ya, no one’s been able to punch me before.” Splicer walked forward casually

“You will be surprised with what I can do.” Starfire shot back, still aching from the last laser blast, but quickly pulling herself back to her feet.

“I somehow doubt that.” Splicer broke into a run now, firing both pistols just as Starfire flew again. Running in between pillars, Splicer fired several blasts at Starfire, who returned with a barrage of Starbolts and eyebeams. Splicer instinctively ducked and jumped to avoid the ones he could, phasing through the ones he didn’t bother to avoid. The Starbolts all exploded harmlessly behind him, creating massive craters in the golden walls.

Splicer meanwhile, fired as well hitting the pillars as Starfire swerved around them, firing whenever she had an opening.

The two opponents eventually ran out of pillars, and Starfire elected to close the distance, turning around and flying straight at Splicer.

Splicer fired and fired, but found that this time, rather than avoiding the shots, Starfire was taking the blasts head on, in order to sacrifice mobility to close the distance. Splicer fired, but as he pulled the trigger, he was rewarded with the click of an empty gun.

Star saw this as her opening, and she increased her speed, charging up both her hands. Splicer however, instead of stopping, continued running, and to Starfire’s surprise, threw the gun straight at her.

To Starfire’s surprise, the gun exploded like a grenade, throwing her back onto the ground while Splicer kept running forward, phasing through the explosion. Starfire was on the ground now, while Splicer, taking his shotgun-like laser rifle, took pleasure in Starfire’s surprise.

“A little trick I picked up from somewhere.” He then aimed the gun straight at Starfire, who now had burn marks all over her body. The Tamaranian tried to get up, but found that her wounded arm had no strength, and she staggered back onto the ground.

“Any last words?” Splicer said, his voice was no where near the casual arrogant tone he had before, now it was a deathly cold tone. He aimed at Starfire, clicking his gun and charging up the laser.

“Yes.” Starfire’s eyes lit up now, and she fired directly at Splicer, point blank, a constant stream of green laser blast that went straight through the villain’s chest, but to no avail, he was already in his transparent form.

Starfire however, kept up the fire, no pausing her shots for a second.

Splicer sighed, then stopped Starfire by slamming his foot on her neck. Starfire choked hard, feeling her head and body jerk up as Splicer’s steel boots made rough contact with her throat. She couldn’t keep up her laser vision now, and Splicer, noticing this, reverted his whole body back to his solid form.

“I don’t think you comprehend the situation here love, you see, I can go through anything I want.” Splicer said again.

“I know. But I was not aiming for you.” Starfire managed to say, trying to not choke from the massive bruise on her neck.

Seconds later, Splicer noticed that the floor was becoming dark, a shadow suddenly enveloping the area he and Starfire were in. The shape grew quickly, at an extremely fast rate and Splicer took this moment to look up.

The massive rectangular slab, which was carved from the ceiling, came down with a thunderous crash, throwing up a huge wall of dust as it shook the entire room as if an earthquake had taken place. Several pillars nearby collapsed, causing a pile of rubble on the spot where Starfire and Splicer stood.

Starfire’s laser beam had carved out a section of the ceiling, which brought down the entire floor above that level. A power generator, which had been on the level above, exploded as it hit the bottom floor, burying Starfire and Splicer under even more rubble.

A slab of concrete suddenly lifted, revealing a bruised and wounded Starfire. Her left arm was dangling uselessly by her side now, completely cut up, while bruises and scraps covered most of her body.

Splicer was in a slightly better shape, having been able to phase through just as he was hit, he got off with some damage, as his armor had been cracked from the shoulders and helmet.

Splicer walked forward, taking out his laser rifle and aiming it at Starfire. “You know, I was going to be nice and all and make it quick, but since you’ve really pissed me off-”

A spark appeared by Splicer’s feet, suddenly making Splicer shudder, the power generator that had fallen from the ceiling was still cackling with electricity. Starfire, seeing that the villain was checking his advance, took good note.

“It seems you cannot go through everything.” She grabbed one of the fallen power cables in her good arm.

“Save yourself the trouble princess, you’ll be dead long before you-”

Starfire picked up the slab of concrete with both her arms, and flung it towards Splicer, the gunman phased through, but by that time, Starfire had already rushed forward, sticking the electric cable right on Splicer’s helmet.

“AAAHHHHH!”

Splicer screamed, the entire hallway became illuminated in a sick blue light as electricity surged through the villain’s body and hitting him with several thousand volts. This surge was too much for the remains of the generator, and the machine exploded instantly, throwing Splicer back onto a pile of rubble, smoking and unconscious.

Starfire propped herself against the wall, still trying to stay on her feet. Her head was still spinning from having a slab of the ceiling fall on her. But even though her senses were dulled, the pain in her arm was keeping her conscious, along with the adrenaline of the last fight.

“Well done, I could not have expected less from a Tamaranian savage.” Another voice, sinister and snake-like, echoed through the chamber.

Starfire, alarmed at the voice that just appeared behind her, turned around, only to see a giant golden armored fist heading straight at her.

The impact of the punch that followed sent vibrations through the room as Starfire flew backwards, flying through two stone pillars before coming to a rest by the remains of the generator.

The Gordinian Captain, sporting his golden armour that covered all of his massive lizard body, and a red cape, was carrying a spear with him as he walked slowly towards her.

Starfire, thrown a good fifty yards away, put her good arm on the wall and slowly pulled herself up, though she felt her knees shaking with pain from that last punch.

“Why are you doing this? What do you have to gain from this? It was not your planet that was destroyed.” Starfire asked as she wiped a small speck of blood from her face, trying to buy up time as she caught her breath.

The Gordinian, though his face was hidden behind an armored lizard shaped mask, was evidently surprised by the question, but he shrugged, suggesting that with Starfire half beaten anyway, there was no harm in telling.

“I suppose at this point, it does not matter whether you know or not.” The Gordinian smiled sadistically as he kept walking forward, holding the spear with both hands now.

“You see Tamaranian, the Citadel grows tired of this…galactic peace, and we are looking to acquire a little’….real estate. As we speak, my armada is positioning itself outside of Centauri space. When Earth is destroyed, it will be the signal to move in and attack. Of course, we will be doing this to restore order to the tribunal, which has been hijacked by you and your friends. As an added bonus, the Citadel gets possession of the Planet Destroyer.” The Gordinian said with relish. “With that in our hands, nothing will stop the Citadel from reclaiming the empire it once had, including your pathetic planet Tamaran. Zasz can have his justice if he likes, but the Citadel is concerned about power, it is that simple.”

Starfire by this time, standing on both her legs now, though she had to lean back on the wall for support.

The Gordinian continued, now he was about thirty yards away from her.

“And what will the Galaxy care? That we conquered a race whose princess was the destroyer of the world Sentien? We would be doing them a favour. None of this of course, would have been possible without you. So I must take this time to thank you.” The Gordinian laughed mockingly, while Starfire was once again overtaken by feelings of guilt and disgust.

“You must know this Tamaranian, people like you, who have so much power in their hands, will always have consequences to their actions. To think so otherwise,” The Gordinian was now right in front of Starfire, towering over her. “Well, you’d be a fool.”

“Goodbye, fool.” The Gordinian lunged with the spear, fully intending to impale Starfire against the wall.

The Tamaranian was quick though, she side stepped out of the way, letting the spear dig through the wall, fracturing it. She then used her good arm and threw a punch at the Gordinian, hitting him right in the face so hard that he staggered back.

The Gordinian smirked, rubbing his chin. “Not bad, but it could use a little more work.” Starfire meanwhile, was breathing heavily from the adrenaline, literally backed into a corner.

“You should have stayed as a slave on the Citadel, now think of all the people who are going to perish because you.” The Gordinian blocked another desperate punch from Starfire, gripping her fist in his hands and almost crushing it with his brute strength.

Starfire screamed in pain, falling onto her knees as she heard the sound of bones cracking in her fist.

“That’s right, on your knees you Troq.” The Gordinian laughed.

Starfire however, instantly shot her head up, her eyes blazing with a green fiery that took the Gordinian off guard.

“It is not over yet!” She shouted a challenge, shooting an eyebeam at the Gordinian’s head. The armored alien dropped Starfire’s hand, blocking the shot with his arm, but Starfire was quick, swiping at the Gordinian’s legs with her own and causing the massive lizard to fall on his back.

Starfire then jumped up, and pointing both feet down, slammed into the fallen Gordinian’s stomach with such force that slabs of the floor shot up from the crater that had formed.

Starfire took to the air again, landing just a few feet away from the smoking crater where the Gordinian lay. She grinded her teeth as the pain in her left arm shot out even more, so much she found herself gripping her shoulder with the other arm.

The Gordinian chuckled, emerging from the crater and running at Starfire. The Tamaranian fired starbolts with her good arm, but the giant lizard just brushed them aside. He punched Starfire in the stomach, then picked her up like a rag doll and threw her across the room, which blasted a huge whole in the wall she landed through.

“Come on now, you don’t honestly believe you can beat me? I’ve kept track of your activities on Earth, you are nothing without your team.” The Gordinian rushed forward, and before Starfire could do anything, she was body slammed by the Gordinian, and throw through another room in an explosion of rubble.

Starfire coughed as the alien’s monstrous hand gripped her throat, slamming her against the wall. She tried to push the massive hand away, but found her own arms too weak.

The Gordinian, his spear gone, held up his free hand. He grinned sinisterly as the armored tips of his fingers suddenly began extending, so much that his hand suddenly became as deadly as any sword. Starfire widened her eyes as the Gordinian’s eyes showed another flash of sadistic pleasure.

The end was coming.

***

Meanwhile, amongst the rubble, Splicer weakly crawled to where he could see Starfire, who was at least a hundred meters away. The smoke from the rubble was blinding his vision, but he could barely make out Starfire, who seemed to be backing against the wall.

He propped his laser rifle up now, and charging it up to full power for his one and only shot. It was nothing like the other shots he used before, this one, not even a shadow of that wretched girl would remain.

That Tamaranian was going to pay. Splicer smirked.

He fired, and a huge blue beam of light blasted through the rubble. The laser rifle, overloading from the massive blast, exploded, and Splicer was thrown back again, this time, unconscious.

***

Starfire tried to gasp, struggling for breath as the death choke intensified. The Gordinian was smiling, then he lunged.

Only to stop, as a blue light suddenly bathed the two figures.

“What-“ The Gordinian turned to look.

Starfire, aware of what was coming, used the Gordinian’s lapse in concentration to kick him in the arm, which loosened his grip until Starfire was able to wrench herself free. Kicking the Gordinian hard in the gut, she grabbed his shoulders and twisted him around so that he would shield her from the brunt of the blast.

The Gordinian screamed in pain as the laser stream blasted straight into him, blowing apart his Golden armor at the arms and legs while disintegrating his helmet. Starfire closd her eyes, ignoring the scathing pain as the laser burst caused an explosion, completely covering that section of the room in smoke and flame.

The Gordinian, his golden armor now charred black, was thrown into the wall, smoking and unconscious.

Starfire, still gripping her wounded arm, wasted no time in moving on. She flew to the final room.

***

The sign on the room read ‘reactor’, and Starfire could only guess that this room powered the massive weapon that Zasz was trying to hijack. The clue was also the fact that the massive reinforced doors into the room were blown apart, as if completely incinerated through.
She could not make out much in the chamber, save for a massive generator that took up the center of the circular room. The chamber however, was bathed in darkness, no lights were on, and Starfire found herself charging her green Starbolt in her good hand to shed light.

There was no sound, not even a soul around. Starfire glanced to the other side of the room, where another set of doors were, this one, leading to the weapon.

That was it, this was where she needed to go.

Then suddenly the entire area lit up in a brilliant orange light, as pillars of flame erupted from the catwalks that flanked the generator.

The electrical systems kicked to life now, and soon, the lights in the generator room were back on, and with them, came a new host of bodies.

Dozens of flame demons now stood on the catwalk, and flanking them were contingents of Gordinian soldiers, all armed with rifles. They all stood quietly, while the Gordinians trained their weapons at Starfire.

But this was not the main thing that caught Starfire’s eye, standing in front of the small army of demons and gordinians, was a tall fiery demon who towered over Starfire. His wings were completely made of fire, while his appearance looked like one of those demons from Trigon, only more hardened and threatening.

“I want you to appreciate this moment Tamaranian,” Scourge said in a booming overpowering voice, “knowing full well that soon, i will be tearing you apart limb from limb..... and that you will be begging me to end your misery.”

Scourge stepped forward, pointing his claw-like hand very menacingly at Starfire.

"Let's go."

Pun-3x

02-26-2006, 12:51 AM

Matt A

02-26-2006, 07:40 AM

It's a shame to see Splicer get beat, but at least he got to inflict some damage beforehand. More to the point, all the opponents got to make their presence felt: it's good to see that Star can't survive a solo fight unscathed. Makes things more realistic, I think.;)

Now, just how on Earth - or Centauri, in this case - is Star going to smack down Scourge, his minions and half the Gordanian army? It'll be interesting to find out...;)

-Matt A-

Pun-3x

02-26-2006, 04:56 PM

My guess is, it's a one-on-one. The rest are there to simply ensure the duel.

Now, afterwards, I don't know what they're gonna do :p

Arrakhat

02-27-2006, 05:25 PM

What happened to Val Yor? or any number of Centauri guards or Tamaranians who are there? Are none of them interested in stopping the attackers, or are they so focused on each other they've forgotten the terrorists? Anywho, Chrysalis Hunter: KOed. Splicer: KOed. Gordanian: KOed. Scourge: I'm hoping Starfire won't beat him and Zasz as well. That's pushing the limits of believability. But still, I want to see Val Yor fight someone. Throwdown, Throwdown!:D (And maybe an explosion? Please?;))

Death58

02-27-2006, 06:53 PM

Woa. . .what a battle royale of a chapter, seirously. It was like one fight after another with Starfire running the gauntlet, and each fight scene was executed awesomely.(especially enjoyed some of Splicer's comments, "I'll give you a hint. You want to move as much as you can.") Stuff like that just make me giddy with an evil passion. . .and it seems this chapter was tailor made for me. In other words, Starfire got the crap kicked out of her pretty badly. I mean, she did good for being alone, but she certainly will be feeling that for the weeks to come, if she manages to stop Scourge, who almost seems undefeatable at this point. So, with no hope left in Star's immediate future, it makes me think; what the hell is she going to do now? Great update, Deathscythe.

PS: Loved the part with the jury actually using the weapons they had.:evil:

Arrakhat

02-27-2006, 08:54 PM

DeathscytheVII

02-27-2006, 09:11 PM

Oh yeah, that's right! Save the best for last! :D

Though it isn't really fair. Starfire's already been torn up from her previous 'trials.' Too bad it's not in Scourge's nature to go easy on an opponent. Although, THIS Scourge might like to play with his prey first. We'll have to see what he chooses to do.

Awesome action throughout. I only wish there was a little more death mixed into the carnage, though I can tell that you're trying to keep things within a realistic scope (ie: what might actually be on the show). You've done an excellent job, and it can only get more exciting from here.

HEHE, im not making a statement of preference of Scourge over Splicer, but i really wanted an imposing, dominating figure to do the cliffhanger on XD. Of course, the fact that he kicks ass doesn't hurt either. As for a littel more death...well yeah i am trying to do this on what might appear on the show, but ill let you be the judge of it in the conclusion.

It's a shame to see Splicer get beat, but at least he got to inflict some damage beforehand. More to the point, all the opponents got to make their presence felt: it's good to see that Star can't survive a solo fight unscathed. Makes things more realistic, I think.;)

Now, just how on Earth - or Centauri, in this case - is Star going to smack down Scourge, his minions and half the Gordanian army? It'll be interesting to find out...;)

-Matt A-

Yes matt, it was rather hard writing the part where Splicer was defeated, but hey, i gave him several shots and a choke stomp on Starfire XD. She didn't get off too lightly.

How will Starfire get out? HMMM stay tuned

What happened to Val Yor? or any number of Centauri guards or Tamaranians who are there? Are none of them interested in stopping the attackers, or are they so focused on each other they've forgotten the terrorists? Anywho, Chrysalis Hunter: KOed. Splicer: KOed. Gordanian: KOed. Scourge: I'm hoping Starfire won't beat him and Zasz as well. That's pushing the limits of believability. But still, I want to see Val Yor fight someone. Throwdown, Throwdown!:D (And maybe an explosion? Please?;))

At that point, they were too busy.occupied with each other, the Centauris had guards on the lower levels to deal with Zasz's terrorists, but...we know how well they did ;).

Starfire is pretty strong though, so we may have different perceptions on the limits of believability, but don't worry, i'm keeping STarfire's injuries in mind ;)

Woa. . .what a battle royale of a chapter, seirously. It was like one fight after another with Starfire running the gauntlet, and each fight scene was executed awesomely.(especially enjoyed some of Splicer's comments, "I'll give you a hint. You want to move as much as you can.") Stuff like that just make me giddy with an evil passion. . .and it seems this chapter was tailor made for me. In other words, Starfire got the crap kicked out of her pretty badly. I mean, she did good for being alone, but she certainly will be feeling that for the weeks to come, if she manages to stop Scourge, who almost seems undefeatable at this point. So, with no hope left in Star's immediate future, it makes me think; what the hell is she going to do now? Great update, Deathscythe.

PS: Loved the part with the jury actually using the weapons they had.:evil:

HAHA yes death, i custom made this update for you. I mean, where else can you read Starfire getting cut, shot, choke slammed and thrown around like a rag doll? HAHA. Actually, i made the update that way as a way of having STarfire make up for all the hardcore action she could have done in the 5 seasons. She is by far one of the strongest members of the team, but the writers rarely make her go all out. That's why she appears to be the member with the LEAST interesting things happening to her. She never had a big challenge.

Why do I get the feeling you got some sort of sadistic pleasure in reading about Starfire getting the crap kicked out of her? Besides the fact that you treated Starfire even worse in your fics and happen to have quite the torturous avatar. What am I saying, this must have been written for you. Now where's my explosion?;)

You and me both buddy :o

And damnit, didn't i give you guys two explosions like...in the last two episodes? :p

Arrakhat

02-28-2006, 06:19 PM

At that point, they were too busy.occupied with each other, the Centauris had guards on the lower levels to deal with Zasz's terrorists, but...we know how well they did ;).

Starfire is pretty strong though, so we may have different perceptions on the limits of believability, but don't worry, i'm keeping STarfire's injuries in mind ;)
Heh. Those silly Centauri. Getting pawned like little girls when all it takes is one firm scolding from Robin to kill a firnusium. Yeah, I'll accept Starfire's battles so long as she doesn't pull some sorta special signature unexpected attack out of her rear at the last minute. But wait, she has Robin's disc for that.;)

You and me both buddy :o

And damnit, didn't i give you guys two explosions like...in the last two episodes? :p
Yeah, Death is starting to scare me. As for explosions, surely you've realized that I'm a greedy, self serving bastard? I want explosions. At least one nuclear sized explosion per installment. One every other installment and ending a good deal of your episodes with explosions just won't cut it. Supply and demand friend, supply and demand.:D

Death58

02-28-2006, 10:30 PM

Why do I get the feeling you got some sort of sadistic pleasure in reading about Starfire getting the crap kicked out of her? Besides the fact that you treated Starfire even worse in your fics and happen to have quite the torturous avatar. What am I saying, this must have been written for you.
Yeah, Death is starting to scare me.Well, as much as I'd like to push the reputation of being a psycho, I can't. . .Unfortunately, the simple reason that I like seeing Starfire beat up is just for pure shock value. In a small reference to my own fan fictions, I wanted people to get the same shock from seeing Starfire treated that badly because. . .I don't know, I just like shocking things and I thought other people would too. I thought I would clear that up before you guys believed I was going off the deep end:p. . .:oJoking aside, I think I am a little embarassed. Also. . .I'm changing my avatar from the Saw puppet dude. . .
HAHA yes death, i custom made this update for you. I mean, where else can you read Starfire getting cut, shot, choke slammed and thrown around like a rag doll? HAHA. Actually, i made the update that way as a way of having STarfire make up for all the hardcore action she could have done in the 5 seasons. She is by far one of the strongest members of the team, but the writers rarely make her go all out. That's why she appears to be the member with the LEAST interesting things happening to her. She never had a big challenge.Yeah, it never really felt like she had anything happen to her in the series, which once again, makes it shocking here. I think one of the reasons that the writers of the show never really showed us her unleashed strength is because they didn't want to conflict too much with her personality in a way. Their idea of her was a sweet, and innocent girl but if we saw her totally beat the crap out of people with little to no mercy(and cause major, major damage to her victims)that would conflict with what they set out to do. In the end, TT really turned out to be more about the characters. . .Although, right here in this fan fic you managed to make Starfire kind, and caring, but you also showed her to be a warrior while still retaining those afforementioned traits so I could be wrong in my theory about why they didn't give her a more agressive role in the show. To be quite honest, this was an interesting view of Starfire, Deathscythe, and I can't wait to see where the next update leads her character.

Arrakhat

03-01-2006, 07:26 PM

Well, as much as I'd like to push the reputation of being a psycho, I can't. . .Unfortunately, the simple reason that I like seeing Starfire beat up is just for pure shock value. In a small reference to my own fan fictions, I wanted people to get the same shock from seeing Starfire treated that badly because. . .I don't know, I just like shocking things and I thought other people would too. I thought I would clear that up before you guys believed I was going off the deep end:p. . .:oJoking aside, I think I am a little embarassed. Also. . .I'm changing my avatar from the Saw puppet dude. . .
You ARE off the deep end, but that's why you're probably such a great hit at parties.:D I understand that shock value thing. I remeber first reading Happy Endings and shuddering at what you had done to Starfire.:ack: Evility at its finest. As for the avatar, it's not you, it's me. I'm opposed because I hate this new "torture" genre of films. Saw I, II, III, and some other movie called Hostile or something of the sort... just beyond the pale.

I've got to know: this episode was written for you, but don't you think you could use some explosions? I think if you can pretend to be a psycho I'll be the pyro and argue that explosions make the story. James Bond agrees with me on this one.

Death58

03-01-2006, 08:30 PM

You ARE off the deep end, but that's why you're probably such a great hit at parties.:D I understand that shock value thing. I remeber first reading Happy Endings and shuddering at what you had done to Starfire.:ack: Evility at its finest. As for the avatar, it's not you, it's me. I'm opposed because I hate this new "torture" genre of films. Saw I, II, III, and some other movie called Hostile or something of the sort... just beyond the pale.

I've got to know: this episode was written for you, but don't you think you could use some explosions? I think if you can pretend to be a psycho I'll be the pyro and argue that explosions make the story. James Bond agrees with me on this one.I understand very much why people don't like the torture film genre, esecially the movie Hostel, which even I don't find particularly interesting. Saw on the other hand. . .I'm a major fan of it, but it's just because of the way they implement twists(which, I'll admit, I have taken some notes from the writing of the Saw movies;you know I'm a sucker for having twists in my stories). Anyways, yes I'm quite the person to know at parties(I actually stick out a lot for I'm crazy and very short). On the note of explosions, yes, I love em! With the way that the current story arc is going in Deathscythe's fic Arrakhat, if Zasz and Scourge get their way there will be more than just a small explosion.:evil: That's IF they get their way, you know, Star really screws up big time in her fight with them. Although Deathscythe, I can assume, has something cool planned with how Star is going to handle this.:D

DeathscytheVII

03-04-2006, 07:30 PM

Death: My personal thoughts is that i think Starfire can be kind and caring, but that doesn't mean she's no less determined to do what's right and protect her friends. Essentially, i think my Star is like the one on the show ;) that really is my purpose, as this lost season is to mimic the show.

Arrakhat: No explosions here ;)

ACt 3, part 2

A huge gust of wind flowed through the chamber, throwing up debris and dust as Scourge stretched out his massive wings of fire. Starfire immediately threw up both her arms in front of her face, in an attempt to shield her eyes from the virtual sandstorm.

She did not even have a chance to react, as three fire balls cut straight through the cloud of dust. The Tamaranian instinctively dodged them, flying up into the skies and charging her hands with starbolts. The three lava balls exploded harmlessly behind her, burning three neat holes into the wall.

Starfire at this point, was surprised to see that the Fire demons and the Gordinian soldiers weren’t attacking her, instead, they filed out to the edges of the room. It looked as though their purpose in the chamber was to prevent her from escaping, while Scourge fought with his prey.

A huge claw emerged from the smoke, aiming to grab Starfire’s head in a single grip, but Starfire pulled back, firing a constant stream of green blasts at the creature, who emerged through the smoke with a lightning fast speed. Speed that she would not have attributed to an opponent this big.

Scourge cackled with a fiery intensity as he simply brushed the starbolts away, letting them exploded harmlessly beside him. Instead, the demon lunged forward even more, intent on closing the distance.

Starfire, realizing that firing more bolts would not work, charged her fists with energy and attacked. Using her wounded arm, she lifted it up as a guard to protect her, while her right hand went straight forward to punch Scourge in the face.

The Demon’s face instantly disappeared as Starfire rammed a giant starbolt charged fist into it, exploding into a green blast on contact. But the monster was unphased, he gripped Starfire’s right arm, twisting it out of the way and punched Starfire right in the face, sending more shockwaves through the room.

Before Starfire even had a chance to fly backwards, Scourge reached forward again, gripping Starfire by the neck plate of her armor and holding the Tamaranian up to his face. Despite having a very disfigured demonic face, Starfire could tell that the demon was smirking.

With a violent thrust, Scourge slammed Starfire into the wall by her neck, fracturing the wall completely and creating a small Tamaranian sized hole, but he did not let go. Instead, he flew across the room, dragging Starfire along as she was forcibly slammed through each pillar, eventually transforming the small hole she was in into a long scar that ran across the entire wall. When Scourge decided he was done, he tossed Starfire onto the ground, the floor rupturing in an explosion.

Starfire coughed as she got on all fours, her left arm was trembling, either from weakness or the pain, but she couldn’t give up. Not now….

Scourge landed next to Starfire, crossing his arms, fully confident that he was the victor.

“A shame, it is hard to believe that you were the ones who defeated the mighty Trigon.” Scourge said disdainfully, then stretched out both arms, charging up swirling fire balls in each hand.

Starfire gritted her teeth, turning to face Scourge with a fierce and determined look in her eyes. The Tamaranian reached into her back pocket, revealing her hidden card.

Scourge raised an eye as he saw a circular metallic disc make its way towards his head. The distance was too close, and the throw was too fast, he had no way of dodging it.

The disc slammed into his forehead, but then…did nothing, except get dented, and it fell harmlessly onto the ground.

Starfire was just as surprised that Robin’s disc did nothing, she had been in a lot of tough fights before, perhaps it was damaged when it was on her? She didn’t waste time anyways, as Scourge had his focus temporarily thrown off. Starfire drove upwards, slamming straight into Scourge with all her might, punching his face as much as she could until her knuckles went numb and even then, she kept on punching. This time, the creature felt it, each punch made the monster concede a step back, and as each punch got more and more rigorous Scourge found his head being knocked from side to side, until finally, a flip kick to the demon’s chin sent him flying backwards a few feet.

Scourge checked his flight path however, by spreading his wings, and after landing back onto the ground, the monster gave his chin a little wipe.

The monster didn’t say anything however, acknowledging that Starfire was going to fight, he was taking it to the next level.

Instantly, his golden claws extended out, so that each one was about as long and sharp as any sword. More fireballs emerged, this time out of thin air, all of them circling around him as if he were controlling them with his will.

Starfire put both her hands together, charging up a starbolt that was at least five times as big as a normal one.

Scourge smirked with relish at this sight, then he charged forward, firing a stream of fire from his palm while at the same time, unleashing all the fireballs at Starfire.

Starfire gave a cry, then released her giant starbolt. Scourge’s fire blast was streaming straight towards it, aiming to cancel it out.

To his surprise however, the Starbolt, instead of canceling out, exploded into dozens of small pieces, each one heading straight for the demon. Scourge however, made no attempt to dodge, or stop his advance, he flew straight at Starfire, throwing off all the fireballs he had floating in the air.

Dozens of small explosions resulted, clouding both opponents in a trail of smoke as they exchanged punches and blows inside the dust. The Gordinian and Fire Demon guards watched silently as they waited for the winner of the exchange to come out.

Starfire grunted as the next punch sent her flying straight back, sliding on the floor until she came to a stop at the wall, making a neat dent. The small circular disc was lying next to Starfire in the rubble now, and it was becoming apparent that she was not going to win with brute force alone.

She reached for the disc, perhaps there was something she had to do to activate it, Robin would not have given it to her unless it would have helped her.

Before she could even touch the weapon however, a foot stomped on her arm, and Starfire felt a very distinct crack as even more pain surged through her.

Scourge stood over Starfire now, his claws dangling menacingly above Starfire as he prepared for the death blow.

“In case you need a little reminder Tamaranian, this is the part where you scream.” The demon cackled.

Before the monster could attack however, a red blast forced him back, sending him flying at least twenty feet away into the air.

“Who dares strike me!?” The Monster got back up, roaring.

“Sorry, ticking people off seems to a habit of mine, something I can’t help.” Val Yor said nonchalantly as he landed just between the monster and Starfire.

“Val Yor?”

“Don’t worry princess, Its not like I came alone.” The Vernathian said smugly.

Seconds later, a series of explosions erupted through the chamber from all sides, several doorways were blasted open, revealing dozens of Tamaranian and Centauri troops, all of them armed to the teeth.

Scourge, seeing this sudden opposition emerge, pointed to the doorways.

“Annihilate them!!”

The Gordinians and Fire demons attacked, as laser fire and inferno blasts echoed the chamber. Centauris flooded the chamber, using rubble as cover while the Gordinians followed suit. Scourge’s fire demons took to the skies, only to be met by their Tamaranian counterparts, who each tackled a demon down onto the ground.

One of the Tamaranians was a furious Galfore, who swung his axe to decapitate six Fire demon’s in a row.

Before long, the room erupted into another fresh battlefield, as Gordinians, Centauris, demons and Tamaranians shot, punched, kicked and blew each other to pieces in the stadium sized chamber.

As more explosions and fights took place in the background, Val Yor went to Starfire. “How’s the arm?” He asked.

Starfire’s face showed a flash of pain as she gave it an experimental move. “I believe I can still move it.” Good, it wasn’t broken.

“How did you manage to work together?” Starfire inquired curiously.

“Well…it didn’t take long to realize the situation, besides, Cron cleared up everything.” Val Yor jerked his head back, to reveal the Centauri officer who had led the squad to capture Starfire in the first place.

The Centauri officer gave Starfire a brisk nod. “There were…..mistakes made, so we are here to rectify them.”

“Fools, I will not give you time to rest.” Scourge roared, then launched himself at Val Yor.

“Leave the ugly one to me.” Val Yor charged forward, locking fists with the huge monster, but to Starfire’s surprise, the alien was doing well on his own. Cron came up behind Scourge, but the demon fired a blast from his eyes, knocking the Centauri away into a fighting mass of Centauri and Gordinians, knocking most of them down.

Before Scourge could do anything else, he felt a stinging pain in his sides, but it wasn’t Val Yor.

The twelve members of the jury had dog piled themselves on Scourge, one of them had already stuck his poison needle into the monster, while another attempted to choke Scourge with a slipknot. More Jury members came, stabbing Scourge with their axes, shock plugs, swords and knives, until finally, at least a dozen people were dangling off Scourge, with some weapon stuck inside of him.

Scourge simply roared with laughter.

“Ah …pain, how refreshing.” Scourge then transformed into one gigantic ball of fire, completely throwing everyone off as a seering blast of heat filled the chamber. Val Yor hit the wall behind Starfire, while the two jury members were tossed aside like dolls.

Scourge, still in his transparent fireball form, walked towards Starfire.

“It is about time I finish you, isn’t it?” Scourge laughed, spreading out his fire wings around her, as if he were trying to engulf Starfire.

The Tamaranian turned around, trying to crawl away. Star gritted her teeth as more pain shot through her body. She reached out into the rubble….

“ Burn! Tamaranian.” Scourge roared, then suddenly trapped Starfire inside his fireball form.

All around her, Starfire could feel the flames incinerating her, all she heard was the monstrous roar of flame as it spiraled chaotically around her. She tried to blast her way out with a starbolt, but found that they dissipated in the pure fire that surrounded her.

Val Yor saw what Scourge was doing, the monster’s body was completely made of fire now and the Tamaranian was being burnt alive inside his frame. He flew to help her, but didn’t know if he was fast enough.

Meanwhile, inside the fiery monster, Starfire heard the mocking voice. “Did you really think you could escape from me?”

Starfire grunted, holding back the scorching pain that coursed through every vein in her body.

“I….was…..not running away.” She held out her hand, and to Scourge’s surprise, saw that she was carrying something.

“I was getting this.” Starfire’s eyes suddenly blazed green, and with all her might, she gripped her fist, crushing Robin’s disc in a powerful grip.

The disc exploded.

Scourge screamed in pain as icicles stabbed out of his body, a small blast of blue mixed in with the fire, extinguishing and hardening the flames. The inferno kept going however, which served only to expand the ice explosion even more. Soon, Scourge exploded into a huge ball of ice.

“NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO…”

Scourge raised in hands and roared in pain, and slowly, but surely, his movements slowed down, his blood red body soon became crystalline blue, and soon, he was frozen, just like a statue.
Seconds later, a massive explosion erupted from Scourge’s chest, scattering his ice statue and revealing a coughing, slightly charred Starfire.

“That was some crazy stunt you pulled Tamaranian.” Val Yor smirked as he propped up Starfire.

Starfire smiled weakly, then cringed as the pain in her left arm came back, but at this point, she was able to stand on her own two feet…but just barely.

Val Yor looked around the room now, the laser fire wasn’t dying down, several unconscious Gordinians and Centauris still lay on the ground, but there was no sign that the fight was ending soon.

Starfire suddenly gasped, and Val Yor looked at where Starfire was staring at, by the doorway.

It was Zasz.

Val Yor rushed forward, but before he could do anything, Zasz lashed out one of his stingers, which stabbed Val Yor in the leg. The Vernathian screamed as he went down onto the ground, gripping it.

Zasz simply looked at Starfire, then turned around and left, as if inviting her to follow him.

“Stupid Crixie.” Val Yor bit his lip. “Stung me.”

“Are you alright?” Starfire asked.

“Can’t move my leg…..” The alien said.

“Well stay here, I shall stop Zasz.” She said confidently.

“It’s a trap princess, he paralyzed me so I wouldn’t follow…you gotta-“

But by the time Val Yor turned around, Starfire was gone, having already disappeared into the long hallway.

***

It took Starfire only a few minutes to fly to her destination, as the chamber was connected to the power room by another long empty hall.

The planet destroyer chamber reminded Starfire a lot of Chang’s warehouse, the circular platform contained a massive cannon that dominated the room, the only difference was that this gun was much larger than Chang’s weapon.

Starfire flew into the room now, almost limping as she landed. She was going to be feeling this pain for some time to come, but to her surprise, she found that it was not the thing that immediately concerned her the most.

“You have no idea how long I’ve waited for this moment Tamranian.” The cold metallic voice echoed through the dark chamber. Starfire charged both her hands with whatever energy she had left, preparing for the onslaught.

Still, she found herself too weak to withstand even this attack.

A metallic claw launched from out of nowhere, wrapping around Starfire with a cold death grip. Starfire struggled, but found that now her arms had no strength at all. The Starbolts simply powered down in her hand.

For good measure, Zasz slammed Starfire into a nearby pile of metallic storage units, completely denting and destroying them as he threw her around.

It didn’t take long before Starfire had the air knocked completely out of her.

Zasz pulled Starfire up the platform now, where he had taken his place by a set of control panels, aiming the giant gun out to the stars, presumably at Earth. Starfire, upon seeing this, grunted with strain as she tried to break free. But she simply did not have the strength left, she was at her limit. Zasz however, took no chances, and two stingers hit Starfire in the legs, paralyzing them instantly. The Tamaranian screamed as the sharp claws stabbed into her, making her lose all feeling in her legs temporarily.

“My claws were made to be twice as strong as the Locrix you fought in your last encounter. Do not bother.” Zasz said coldly, using his free hand to type in the final coordinates on the control panel.

“Soon, it will all be over.”

“You must not do this Zasz! Please, there is another way. I’ll do what it takes to help find another way.” Starfire pleaded weakly.

“There is nothing left but this.” Zasz pushed the button on the console, and soon, the gigantic gun began charging up, with cackles of electricity filling the room. “And now, you will get a front row seat to it.”

A screen popped up in front of them now, showing an image of Earth. Meanwhile, Zasz held Starfire right up to his face, as if he wanted to squeeze some last words in.

“My people may have been just mindless machines to you Starfire, but they were still MY people.” The Robot said with his restrained voice.

Starfire, despite being paralyzed, grunted as she tried to break free of the vice grip.

“I may not have ruled Sentien, nor even owned an inch of it, but it was still MY home.” Zasz said coldly, his metallic claw already over the console, ready to press the trigger button.

“Now, you will know what its feels like to have both taken away from you. Be thankful that I will leave you with one planet to grieve on.” The Locrix continued.

The cannon was fully charged now, and Zasz mockingly held Starfire up to his face, as if he were going to spit at her, if he had any mouth.

“Any last words? Before Justice is done?” Zasz droned mechanically.

“Yes.” Starfire’s face hardened with determination.

“Do with me what you will. But I will not allow you to endanger my friends!” She said firmly.

Zasz was almost amused at this statement.

“Your arms are crushed, you have no more strength in your body, I have paralyzed your legs with poison. What can you possibly do to stop me?” He held his claw over the button, then went to press it.

Starfire charged up her laser eyes, and to Zasz’s surprise, did the only thing she could do.

She slammed her head right into Zasz’s face.

A resounding crack erupted through the chamber, and Zasz gave a scream of pain as he staggered back, completely shocked by the move. A crack appeared on his visor where his five mechanical eyes were.

“ARGH, what are you-!” Zasz screamed in his robotic voice.

Starfire however, did not stop there, after the first hit, she lifted her head up, and hit Zasz again with her skull. This time, it was done with such force that it created a dent in the Locrix’s skull.

Starfire lifted her head one more time, this time, she would use whats left of her strength, charging her eyes completely with her green energy.

Zasz staggered back a few steps, saw what Starfire was about to do, but he had no time to react.

Before Starfire delivered her blow, Zasz saw that there was a small trickle of tears coming down her face.

I’m sorry……

Starfire screamed, firing her laser eyes and slamming her head into Zasz one last time. The force of the impact was so great that a green energy ball wrapped around Zasz, exploding in a violent blast of light as the Locrix fell off the railing, dropping several stories onto the ground with a loud crash. He was unconscious, beaten.

Starfire was about to follow Zasz down as well, but not before she was caught in the air by Val Yor.

“The paralyzing poison is only temporary, so don’t worry about it.” Val Yor smirked, but he silently cursed that the poison took so long to wear off. He quickly gave some to Starfire.

“Val….Yor…” Starfire opened her eyes, semi conscious. “I…can’t move….”

“Don’t worry Princess, just concentrate on resting.” Val Yor said in a caring tone, then he carried Starfire away, while the Centauri guards, fresh from arresting all the Gordinians, were making their way into the chamber.

It was over.

***

Outside, the chambers were completely in chaos. Thousands of alien civilians gathered in their large crowds, angry at the recent destruction of their beloved tribunal, and for the loss of their loved ones in the recent attack. It was a mockery of the authority of Centauri, of the entire Galactic federation. Soon, the surge in anger and outrage was close to breaking out into a general riot, all it needed was focus.

That came easily enough, as Starfire appeared through the massive Tribunal doors, this time, she was being propped up by Val Yor’s shoulder. Galfore had already made the arrangements, providing Starfire with a transport back to Earth. The Tamaranian guards move around the crowd uneasily, as more jeers and shouts of ‘Troq’ echoed.

The Tribunal’s destroyed!

It’s all her fault that this happened!

TROQ! Give her what she deserves!

“I’m sorry…” Starfire managed to mumble weakly. More boos erupted from the crowd, and soon, it looked as though they were about to get lynched.

However, it was Val Yor who stepped up to the plate.

“QUIET, ALL OF YOU!” The Vernathian shouted out savagely. The Aliens in the crowd, completely surprised, were quickly cowed by the massive voice of the soldier.

Even when the sounds had all subsided, Val Yor was still furious.

“So don’t you DARE imply that it was her fault. She was the only one who did anything in this whole mess, while all of you just hid in a corner, you didn’t even lift a finger. You’ve got no right to say this to her, NONE of you.” Val Yor said angrily, glaring at the thousands of eyes that had a second ago, looked upon them with rage, now they were bewildered by this outburst.

The crowd maintained the uneasy silence.

“Val Yor?” Starfire mumbled weakly.

“It’s ok Princess,” Val Yor gave a wink, as if it was his nickname for Starfire, just like how he called Beast Boy ‘champ’ or Robin ‘spiky.’ It didn’t register at first to Starfire, but she smiled.

“Come on, let’s get you home.” The Vernathian, still propping Starfire on his shoulder, walked quietly to the ship, escorted by the Centauri and Tamaranian guards.

***

Meanwhile back on Earth, the final preparations were complete. The sun was setting on Titans tower, and already, a giant spaceship was sticking from the rooftop.

“ALRIGHT YOU ALIENS! Watch out! Cause Beast Boy is packing heat!” The green Changeling declared boastfully as he packed two twin cannons into the newly repaired T-ship.

“Uh Beast Boy, those are super soakers.” Raven pointed out rather sarcastically.

“I read this somewhere, Aliens hate water. So I’m going give those guys a soaking they’ll never forget!” The changeling declared with determination.

“Are all the preparations set?” Robin said impatiently as he pressed the controls in his cockpit.

“Just a few minutes to recalibrate the hyperspace drive.” Cyborg said over the intercom. Rebuilding the T-ship from scratch had taken days, and during that time the team had tried everything to locate Starfire, to no avail. Even Raven’s spells could not reach far enough into space to detect Starfire’s presence, while every star map Cyborg pulled up didn’t even give the location of the Centauri moons. So the team decided to do it the old fashioned way, to rebuild the ship and search every star if they needed to.

“Alright, let’s blast off.” Robin declared.

“Wait, Robin,” Cyborg said over the intercom. “I’m picking up a large object approaching on radar, check your console.”

Robin however, could have saved himself the trouble, within seconds, a massive shadow had engulfed the T-ship and the roof of the tower.

The boy wonder instantly took off his earphones and saw the giant spaceship hovering above the tower. This one was a Centauri ship, not like the Gordinian one that had attacked earlier, but it was the same enemy.

“Looks like those guys are back for round two.” Cyborg said.

“Titans, go!”

Instantly, all four titans opened their cockpits and jumped out of the T-ship. Cyborg had charged up his sonic cannon, while Raven charged up. Robin took out two bo staffs while Beast Boy prepared to transform.

A doorway opened in the spaceship now, and the Titans prepared to rush the aliens.

But this time, only a solitary figure stood in the doorway, a person the Titans never expected to see again.

“Val Yor, I should have known.” Robin said with hostility.

“Chill out spiky. I’m not here to fight. Just to bring Starfire home.” He stepped forward, and the team recoiled in shock as they realized that he was carrying a wounded Starfire in his arms. She was badly bruised all over, although bandages were applied over her left arm and legs.

“What have you done to her!” Robin said angrily, as if he was JUST restraining his impulse to beat down Val yor.

“Do not worry friends,” Starfire gave a weak smile as Val Yor propped her back down onto solid ground. The Tamaranian now stood firmly, although a little weakly, on the rooftop of the tower, in front of her friends. “Val Yor has helped me, I would not have made it without him.”
The Titans suddenly widened their eyes in surprise. Val Yor? Helping Starfire?

“Got to hand it to you princess, you fight as well as any Vernathian I’ve met.” He gave Starfire a thumbs up.

Starfire smiled weakly, walking towards her team, where Cyborg and Raven quickly rushed to prop her up.

“Thank you Val Yor, for everything.”

“Don’t thank me Starfire, I’m the reason why you’re in this mess. Even if you were a Tr-…Tamaranian.” The Vernathnian said uneasily, but he gave a rare smile. “I was wrong in my opinion of you Starfire.”

It was a handsome retraction of every insult he had given her. And although it was far from being an apology, Starfire knew that coming from Val Yor, it meant a lot, and it was probably his way of saying so.

“And I of you Val Yor, you are really a hero, just as you say.”

Val Yor shook his head. “No, not after what happened.”

Starfire’s smile suddenly faded. “So….what now?”

“I confessed to everything Starfire. After all, I was the one who put the quantum eradicator into the core, I pulled the trigger. It wasn’t you.” Val Yor said solemnly.

“So…does that mean.” Starfire couldn’t believe what she was hearing, Val Yor had taken all the blame? Then…the execution.

“I’ll leave the sentence up to the Tribunal. I don’t really care anyways Starfire. You were right. All this time, I’ve been acting blindly on my anger. And because of that, I endangered your friends and my people.” He looked at Starfire again, a flash of guilt in his eyes. “And I almost destroyed a good person.”

“It’s time I owned up to my mistakes.” The Vernathian said firmly.

“Please, you do not have to go alone.” Starfire pleaded weakly.

“I already talked it over with your Galfore. He and I agreed, it was the only way to save you.”

“You did not have to do such a thing for me, I’ve also…”

“No Starfire. Never think that. It was me, and me alone. You don’t have anything to feel guilty about!” Val Yor replied fiercely, almost angrily. “It’s my mistake, my problem, and I intend to make up for it. Anyway I can.”

“So….i guess this is goodbye…” Starfire said sadly.

“What? I said I’d own up, but I’m not going down without a fight.” Val Yor smirked. “Besides, our actions gave me some leverage to use against the judge, so I think I can squeeze out of it. We’ll meet again, I promise.” He extended his hand to Star. “And I never go back on a promise.”

Starfire, at first feeling gloomy about the thought of Val Yor facing the trial and sentence alone, was suddenly overcome by the alien’s confidence. Smiling a little, she shook his hand. “I will hold you to your word Val Yor, may X’hal keep you safe.”

Val Yor nodded. “The Earth is lucky to have people like you. I expect to hear great things from you kid.” He smirked, stepping back onto the alien platform, where already, several Centauri policemen waited for him.

“Catch ya around Princess.” Val Yor gave one last wave as the platform was lifted into the spaceship, which quickly flew off into the horizon, and ultimately, vanishing back into space.

“Starfire…what was all that about?” Robin asked curiously.

Starfire shook her head quietly. “Nothing…we just got to, as you earthlings say ‘know each other better’.”

“Do you think we’ll see him again?” Cyborg asked.

“I believe we will friend, we will. But now, I only wish to return to my home. It has been awhile since I have….had the ‘bath’.”

“Its good to have you back Star.” Robin smiled. “Welcome home.”

The Titans cheered, then went back into the tower, treating Starfire's injuries, before she entered however, she took one more look at the sky. Throughout her trials, she had thought many times about giving up, but it was the thought of her friends had kept her going. Now, she smiled knowing that she had another friend travelling amongst the stars. A friend she would hope to one day see again.

The End

There you have it guys, the end of my ideal Starfire episode AND my first OC villain. What do you guys think of both? XD

Pun-3x

03-04-2006, 09:04 PM

Matt A

03-05-2006, 08:12 AM

Well, that was certainly a cool way to end it. Scourge getting frozen, Zasz getting the headbutt from hell - a genius idea if ever there was one - and Val Yor finally showing remorse in a final scene that narrowly avoids sentiment. Oh, and having the Titans ready to go just as Star returns was an outstanding comedy moment, if only because I hadn't actually seen it coming. Very clever all round.:anime:

-Matt A-

Death58

03-05-2006, 12:12 PM

My personal thoughts is that i think Starfire can be kind and caring, but that doesn't mean she's no less determined to do what's right and protect her friends. Essentially, i think my Star is like the one on the show ;) that really is my purpose, as this lost season is to mimic the show.Really, that's my point though; through out this entire Episode, you managed to let Starfire be exactly like she was in the show, and yet you still took her in a direction that we don't normally see Starfire in. Personally, this was far better than the one ender episodes that Starfire got in the actual television series, and that is quite a feat Deathscythe. This was an eppy that will definitely be one of my favorites.;)

Onto this particular update, really liked it a lot. You had some awesome characterization on Val-Yor. As I mentioned before, you made us feel sympathy for him, and now you've gone one step further by making us actually respect and like him a lot, and yet he still seemed like the Val-Yor we all know at the same time. . .I wish that made more sense.:sweat: Also, I really enjoyed the part with the Jury finally getting to use their weapons as well as the fact that Scourge simply laughed it off. Then we get to Zasz. . .I can't believe how utterly evil he was, and how close he was to pressing the button to destroy Earth. Without remourse as well! Plus, that last couple lines he made. . .

“My people may have been just mindless machines to you Starfire, but they were still MY people.”

“I may not have ruled Sentien, nor even owned an inch of it, but it was still MY home.”

“Now, you will know what its feels like to have both taken away from you. Be thankful that I will leave you with one planet to grieve on.”That last line really, really gets me. That was just awesome. Zasz is definitely a very fleshed out villain. Also, there were explosions:p. Lots of them at the end, so Arrakhat should be happy. Now, do I even have to mention how awesome the fight scenes were? Yeah, I do. To put it lightly, they were very enthralling. I can't wait for the next episode Game Over. I like Control Freak, so it will be cool to see what all you're going to do with him.

Arrakhat

03-05-2006, 02:33 PM

Explosions, AND a plausable victory for the near-beaten Starfire? Excellent.:cool: Your OC was great, since the tragic villain who is no longer to be pitied always works well when the story's writtne well. Which episode is next? I promise I won't even demand explosions after this. Really.;)

DeathscytheVII

03-06-2006, 12:16 AM

Holy crabopple! This rounded off nicely! I liked the 'Princess' angle, it seemed to fit perfectly.

Poor Star, all beat up. She really had to go through the gauntlet. You know, if you ever watch the show Transformers: Beast Wars, take a look at the episode "Code of Hero" from season 2. Its ending battle is quite a bit like this...but sadder.

And I LOVED THE SCOURGE FIGHT! I kinda had a feeling that his defeat would be a freeze disc or something of that nature. It's just fitting end for a fire demon. Still, I liked the little nods and nuances to the character. Definitely a fun read, top to bottom!

Thanks Pun! Hehe, and yes , i am very familiar with that episode of beast wars. My single most favourite of the series ;) where else can i get inspiration for this ep? hahah. Making Starfire run a gauntlet like Dinobot is a great way to showcase her determination.

I'm glad that ive done scourge justice to you hehe. notice the similar way he tried to kill Star in this story and yours hehe, of course, theres a difference in the tools she had haha.

Well, that was certainly a cool way to end it. Scourge getting frozen, Zasz getting the headbutt from hell - a genius idea if ever there was one - and Val Yor finally showing remorse in a final scene that narrowly avoids sentiment. Oh, and having the Titans ready to go just as Star returns was an outstanding comedy moment, if only because I hadn't actually seen it coming. Very clever all round.:anime:

-Matt A-

Headbutt from hell, i shoulda called it that XD. Thanks for the good word on everything, i'm glad you enjoyed that little comedy in between the action haha. And yay Val Yor was convincing!

Really, that's my point though; through out this entire Episode, you managed to let Starfire be exactly like she was in the show, and yet you still took her in a direction that we don't normally see Starfire in. Personally, this was far better than the one ender episodes that Starfire got in the actual television series, and that is quite a feat Deathscythe. This was an eppy that will definitely be one of my favorites.;)

Onto this particular update, really liked it a lot. You had some awesome characterization on Val-Yor. As I mentioned before, you made us feel sympathy for him, and now you've gone one step further by making us actually respect and like him a lot, and yet he still seemed like the Val-Yor we all know at the same time. . .I wish that made more sense.:sweat: Also, I really enjoyed the part with the Jury finally getting to use their weapons as well as the fact that Scourge simply laughed it off. Then we get to Zasz. . .I can't believe how utterly evil he was, and how close he was to pressing the button to destroy Earth. Without remourse as well! Plus, that last couple lines he made. . .

That last line really, really gets me. That was just awesome. Zasz is definitely a very fleshed out villain. Also, there were explosions:p. Lots of them at the end, so Arrakhat should be happy. Now, do I even have to mention how awesome the fight scenes were? Yeah, I do. To put it lightly, they were very enthralling. I can't wait for the next episode Game Over. I like Control Freak, so it will be cool to see what all you're going to do with him.

Gotcha on the Starfire thing ;). One of your favourites eh...yay! I'm happny i managed to make Val Yor a likeable guy, everyone seemed to just bash him after Troq for no reason, and so many fanfics assume he's evil. The dude's not evil, he's just being himself, which might piss some ppl off ;) but certainly not evil.

I'm also relieved you found Zasz so fleshed out and villainy hehe. So many OC villains go wrong so i try to avoid that route, i put Zasz through two mary sue litmus tests before even writing him just to avoid that. ;) Glad you liked the fight XD, and all the starfire bashing hahaha. And yes...control freak will own muhahaha

Explosions, AND a plausable victory for the near-beaten Starfire? Excellent.:cool: Your OC was great, since the tragic villain who is no longer to be pitied always works well when the story's writtne well. Which episode is next? I promise I won't even demand explosions after this. Really.;)

Thanks Arrakhat, on all counts hehe. And what's this? no more explosion demanding? how will i live on? ;). There may be some...maybe.....

---------------

Anyways, thanks everyone for bearing with me for nine episodes ;) we're almost there.

There may be a little pause before this next episode though, i intend to draw some fanart for this episode as i write it, and art for other projects. But hopefully not that long.

STAY TUNED FOR THE NEXT EPISODE

Episode 10 - Game Over
He couldn't defeat the Titans in real life, or in the T.V, so Control Freak decides to take it to the next level, by trapping the Titans in his very own video game world.

Pun-3x

03-06-2006, 01:55 AM

Cool, you HAVE seen that ep. Yeah, it's my SECOND favorite of the entire series...only because I absolutely loved the Agenda Trilogy. That was the single greatest reason I got back into Transformers. (And something that powerful has to get the nod, of course. :D )

I'm glad that I've done scourge justice to you hehe. notice the similar way he tried to kill Star in this story and yours hehe, of course, theres a difference in the tools she had haha.

Yes, definitely awesome stuff. It makes me wish I'd given her a freeze disc too, but then we wouldn't have gotten the dramatics out of the fight that way...and it only would have worked on Scourge for the moment (long enough for Star to get out, and ruin that scene).

Still, understanding that we HAVE to see our heroine beat the odds, it was a great way to go.

DeathscytheVII

03-16-2006, 05:00 AM

Episode 10: Game Over

Consciousness came slowly at first, the blackness giving way to a blinding white light. Shapes and colors followed soon after.

“Ugh….” Beast Boy groaned, rubbing his head painfully as he got up. Lying next to him, were the other four members of his team, all sprawled unconsciously on the floor.

“What hit me?” Cyborg rubbed his head, taking the moment to notice the surroundings. The place they were in didn’t seem that weird, they were outside in a plain, with small patches of trees, rolling hills as far as the eye can see. The sun was bright in the sky, while a warm breeze blew through the area. The other titans were semi-conscious now, groaning weakly as they propped themselves up on the grassy plain

“As you humans say, I do not believe we are in the Kansas.” Starfire said innocently as she pondered the surroundings. “Perhaps if we- AWWWWWWW!” The Tamaranian clasped her hands, shouting in joy as birds and little cute animals were frolicking in the fields. Her eyes were aglow as she watched the little creatures hope around innocently.

“Why am I not surprised.” Raven sighed, something about this wasn’t right. Robin was the same, and he got up, shaking the dizziness from his head.

“Last thing I remember….we were fighting….WAHHHH!”

A pop up screen suddenly exploded in Robin’s face! And Robin fell back onto the ground with a ‘thump’. The four other titans recoiled back as he saw a very familiar figure appear in the screen. The guy fat face with long straggly hair, dressed in the warp-trek suit who was also secretly a fanboy…...

Well if it isn’t my Arch Nemesiii, the TEEN TITANS! Control Freak let out a nasty nerd-like laugh.

“Control Freak.” Robin said in his usual mandatory serious tone.

“That’s Right! In case you were wondering, you were just Zapped by my new Reality Warp-a-tron 5000! Control Freak brandished a brand spanking new remote in his hand, kissing it as if it were his most prized possession. “Able to breeze through 5000 channels per second, but more importantly, it allows me to control my own reality world. The World you are now trapped in. MUHAHAHAHAHAHHA!”

“Not for long.” Robin said seriously, taking out his bo staff. Cyborg transformed his arm into a sonic cannon, while Raven and Starfire charged up their powers.

Before that happened however, Control Freak pressed the button on his remote. A flash of energy quickly enveloped the titans. Robin’s bo staff vanished from his hands, while Raven and Starfire both lost their powers. Cyborg’s arm cannon powered down.

“NUH UH UH. My World. My Rules.” Control Freak giggled intensely, enjoying the fact that he had full power over his enemies.

Not only were their powers gone, but Robin also noticed that their uniforms had changed. Robin was now wearing a tattered brown cloak, and worn down armor that now covered his shoulders.

“If you want to escape this world, you’re gonna have to do it with my rules.” Control Freak zapped out of the portal now, appearing as a hologram in front of them. “And that means no powers!”

Soon Beast Boy was covered in robed garments as well, only he had a wizard’s hat and a staff. Cyborg donned full body armor, carrying a large sword, while Raven found herself covered in dark robes. Starfire was armored, and soon, a bow was magically zapped into her hand.

Control freak laughed even more.

“In this world, everything is a video game, and I’ve specifically designed ten levels for you to complete, levels that will test your video game knowledge and skills. Failure to pass even one of these tests will result in you being trapped here. Forever!”

“You’re challenging ME to video games Control Freak? Oh you are so getting owned.” Beast Boy cracked his knuckles, grinning in anticipation.

Cyborg grinned as well. “Anything you dish out, we can take.”

“Don’t be so quick to judge Titans, you may have gotten lucky in the TV, but Video Games are a whole new level! YOU HAVE NO CHANCE TO SURVIVE MAKE YOUR TIME. hee hee, i always wanted to say that.”

All the Titans raised an eyebrow at this statement.

Raven stepped forward, pointing at the cute little video game bunnies frolicking in the field. “Bunnies and squirrels Control Freak? Even for you this is too stupid.”

"Oh don't worry. Just wait till you see what else i have in store for you." Control Freak rubbed his hands fiendishly together in anticipation.

Control Freak grinned, clicking his remote at the bunnies before disappearing. Soon, the bunnies disappeared as well, only to be replaced by something else. The ground shook as a large shadow loomed over the land, they were large Mechwarriors (http://knights-n-knaves.com/images/newmechpic.jpg) . Robots with twin missile launchers, ion cannons and lasers on their arms, and there were at least six of them. Before the Titans even had a chance to take in the sight, the mechs pointed all their cannons and lasers at the team, targeting the heroes. Each step they took literally shook the earth.

Cyborg dropped his jaw. "Well....did anyone else see that coming?"

Robin reached for his utility belt, and pulled out his weapons…

A small knife.

WTFUXORZ!?!

Robin winked. Having no idea where that just came from or what it meant. Instead, his focus was at the giant mechs, who were closing their distance.

“TITANS, RUN!”

(Fade to opening)

Kyou mo kotsu ruuru wo mamoru yo
TEEN TITANS!
Suki kirai-naku nandemo taberu yo
TEEN TITANS!
Shin kaminari kage oyaji
Boku no sansu ika shakai
Kowai mon wa nai mo nai

Teen Titans GO

Ookiina koe de yonde okureyo
TEEN TITANS!
Onayami hanbun kaiketsu shi-chau yo
TEEN TITANS!
Papa no sukejuru kontorooru
Mama no taijuu kontorooru
Negau mon wa hateshinai

Teen Titans GO

1...2...3....4....GO!

Teen Titans!

Matt A

03-16-2006, 06:55 AM

Arrakhat

03-16-2006, 06:26 PM

Now, let's see what else you can riff on...;)
He can riff off the opening of Mad Mod.;) But seriously, this was great. Obviously Control Freak is a top-notch villain for using the mechawarriors. I demand at least one Star Wars Battlefront reference though. The Star Wars references in Control Freak's 2nd episode were great, I need more.:D

YOU HAVE NO CHANCE TO SURVIVE MAKE YOUR TIME

What is that from?

Pun-3x

03-16-2006, 10:21 PM

THAT, my friend, is from a poorly translated video game opening that circulated like a horrible plague on the internet some three or four years ago. You might be aware of the phrase "ALL YOUR BASE ARE BELONG TO US!" It's all the same. And Freak-boy will most definitely need to die now because of it.

With that said, THIS is going to be fun. As with the TV version having references to...well, everything, now we get to watch what references pop up from various video game titles. The fun ones will be the most easily recognized, but the best ones I think will be the subtle "figure it out yourself" ones that I'm sure will come along.

Oh boy, this is gonna be fun. :D

Arrakhat

03-17-2006, 02:58 PM

Death58

03-18-2006, 01:03 PM

Well, this sounds like it's going to be one heck of a ride. Starting off with the Mechwarriors was definitely a very nice touch, and I can only imagine what other video games you are going to reference. At this point, this episode could go a lot of different ways, and that is going to be cool. Also, Control Freak, from what I've seen so far, is really in character and I can't wait to see what else you are going to do with him. Everyone else pretty much mentioned some of the jokes I was going to, so there's no point to repeat what they said. . .The only thing I can think of is that this reminds me of Reboot, and that's just awesome.:D

DeathscytheVII

03-24-2006, 07:39 PM

Right now, I think I might just be in geek heaven. I adore the BattleMechs.:anime:

But seriously, this ep is rapidly looking like an even cooler idea than I first thought. Having the Titans be in full MMORPG gear was a stroke of genius, and perfectly fitting for Control Freak...plus it makes Titans be in big trouble, which is always fun.:evil:

Now, let's see what else you can riff on...;)

-Matt A-

PS: Liked the Japanese titles. A fitting touch.;)

HAHA yep, i never forgot how seriously cool that game is :D And thanks! I've always been a fan of RPGS, and i thought it would be awesome to have the titans like that hehe.

He can riff off the opening of Mad Mod.;) But seriously, this was great. Obviously Control Freak is a top-notch villain for using the mechawarriors. I demand at least one Star Wars Battlefront reference though. The Star Wars references in Control Freak's 2nd episode were great, I need more.:D

HAHA well, that was also the opening of Mother Mae Eye ;) so i thought it was a way the show does wacky eps. In any case....geez, always demanding and demanding :p lol

Glad you liked it though!

THAT, my friend, is from a poorly translated video game opening that circulated like a horrible plague on the internet some three or four years ago. You might be aware of the phrase "ALL YOUR BASE ARE BELONG TO US!" It's all the same. And Freak-boy will most definitely need to die now because of it.

With that said, THIS is going to be fun. As with the TV version having references to...well, everything, now we get to watch what references pop up from various video game titles. The fun ones will be the most easily recognized, but the best ones I think will be the subtle "figure it out yourself" ones that I'm sure will come along.

Oh boy, this is gonna be fun. :D

Right on, All your base was pretty annoying, but is that enough reason to kill the beloved control freak?! :o. LOL i just realized now that this will be structured like Episode 257, but oh well...imitation is the most sincere form of flattery.

Well, this sounds like it's going to be one heck of a ride. Starting off with the Mechwarriors was definitely a very nice touch, and I can only imagine what other video games you are going to reference. At this point, this episode could go a lot of different ways, and that is going to be cool. Also, Control Freak, from what I've seen so far, is really in character and I can't wait to see what else you are going to do with him. Everyone else pretty much mentioned some of the jokes I was going to, so there's no point to repeat what they said. . .The only thing I can think of is that this reminds me of Reboot, and that's just awesome.:D

This ep was actually inspired by Reboot :) i always loved that show. I Hope you enjoy the ride :D

LEVEL 1

Once upon a time, there was a happy little place, with happy little creatures. Bunnies hoped and birds chirped in the wide open fields, filled with trees, rivers and large groves of flowers. Butterflies, vibrant with all the colors of the rainbow, filled the sky, which was bright and sunny. Something straight out of a fairytale from a child’s book.

Then came the missiles, lasers and Mechwarriors.

Needless to say, it wasn’t so happy anymore.

Explosions raked the field, blowing craters, scorching trees, and sending pillars of rock and earth into the air. Laser fire followed, setting fire to the grass plains while missiles filled the air. All the little creatures vanished instantly, and through the smoke, five oddly dressed super heroes emerged.

“Faster!” Robin shouted, “Those things are gaining on us.”

“Where exactly are we going?” Cyborg shouted as he ran, heavy sweat went down the side of his face as he was weighed down by the armor and sword he was carrying.

“Away from them!” Robin said as he kept running. More explosions erupted on the side of the road, the landscape itself had changed from a lush green field into a barren plain filled with smoking craters.

“We do not have our powers friends, but perhaps we can make use of the tools Control Freak has given us.” Starfire said helpfully, taking an arrow out of the quiver behind her and aiming the bow and arrow towards one of the mechwarriors. Starfire aimed, and quickly fired.

The arrow whistled through the air quickly, hitting the mechwarrior right in the arm. But predictably, the wooden arrow snapped in half.

Cyborg grabbed Star’s arm, dragging her along with the team. “You think that a twig could stop that?! Come on! Let’s go!”

“There!” Beast Boy shouted excitedly as he pointed to a small town up ahead, where the fields were still green and full of life.

“Beast Boy, its just a town, wooden shacks aren’t going to protect us from that.” Robin said skeptically.

“Just trust me on this one dude.” Beast Boy leaped forward, as if he were preparing to transform into a cheetah, but instead of changing, the titan just fell face forward into the ground.

“Oh… right. No powers hehe.” The green titan rubbed his head.

A missile screeched towards the ground, quickly waking Beast Boy up, and the five titans ran towards the road.

TARGET LOCKED.

An ominous beeping sound came from the three mechwarriors, as more compartments opened up in their arms and shoulders, revealing a huge assortment of laser guided missiles.

“We’re almost there guys!” Beast Boy shouted

“We’re cutting it close B!” Cyborg turned back nervously.

The three Mechwarriors instantly vanished in a cloud of smoke, as dozens of missiles were launched at the Titans. The projectiles twirled into the air, leaving trails of smoke in their wake, like twisted snakes, before diving down back to Earth, heading straight for the five heroes.

“DUCK!” The five Titans dove forward, covering their heads as the missiles exploded, sending a huge cloud of dust that swept over the heroes. For a split second, everything went dark, and all they could hear was explosions all around them.

***

Robin was the first to open his eyes, and he saw that the Mechwarriors were still standing behind them, but they weren’t going any further. It was as if some invisible force was freezing them in place.

“See, told ya.” Beast Boy said triumphantly.

The other Titans go up now, dusting off their RPG uniforms as they did.

“But Beast Boy,” Starfire inquired curiously. “How did you know they would stop?”

“Because we’re in town Starfire! In video games, this is the safest place ever! Plus we can figure out our powers and buy cool items too!” Beast Boy said gleefully.

Robin rubbed the back of his head, which was still aching. He then reached into his belt and pulled out even more knives and daggers. While the Titans were recovering, they were also checking out their new abilities. Cyborg had a gigantic sword that was easily as big as Robin, Starfire had a bow and arrow, while Beast Boy had a magic staff. Only Raven had no clue what she had in her role.

“Ok Beast Boy.” Robin said seriously. “It’s obvious that you know a lot about this place, so…can you fill us in?”

Beast Boy nodded. “We’re in a game right now called ‘Danger Quest VII: The Corinthian Principles.’ It’s like, only the most popular RPG game ever!”

Cyborg shrugged. “Never heard of it.”

“Well, in this game, we each take a class.” Beast Boy began explaining.

“But I do not see any educational institutions here Friend.” Starfire wondered innocently.

“No Star, a class is like your job, like, you’re an Archer. Robin’s a Thief, Cyborg’s a Swordsman, and I’m….”

Beast Boy grinned, twirling his staff skillfully in his one hand and tipping his hat as an exclaimation mark.

“A mage!”

“Great…then how about me?” Raven asked, wondering what kind of class wears sleek skin tight suits with torn robes.

“Uh……you could be anything really Rae…a Necromancer? Or maybe a ninja? We can find out when we train.” Beast Boy said.

“Train?” Robin asked.

“Yup, if we want to escape this town, we gotta build up our stats, level up. You know. train.” Beast Boy said confidently. “Until we can beat those robots.”

Starfire gave a puzzled look and whispered to Robin. “So every time we have ever trained in the tower, we have been building up our…’stats’?”

Robin sighed. “No Starfire, this isn’t the same thing. But Beast Boy’s right, we can’t stay cooped up in this town forever, we gotta figure a way out past those robots.”

“Ok Beast Boy, its obvious you are the expert in this game, this is your call.” Robin conceded.

Beast Boy’s eyes suddenly lit up, like a little kid receiving candy. “you mean….i get to lead the team!!?” He was so happy that he looked like he was going to shriek in joy.

“Just until we get to Control Freak.” Robin said firmly.

“Alright! Ok, Titans, let’s head out!” Beast Boy gestured towards the town.

“One question.” Raven spoke out.

“Shoot.” Beast Boy said confidently.

“How come Starfire and I don’t have as much weapons, armor and items as you guys?” Raven said dryly, she was also tempted to say clothes as well, looking at Starfire.

“Easy Rae! It’s a video game rule. It’s because girls are always much better at defending themselves than guys! Isn’t that right Cy?” BB explained, elbowing Cyborg nervously.

“Uh..yay Rae! Of course!” Cyborg grinned.

“I am honored Beast Boy, for giving so much appreciation for our combat skills.” Starfire smiled.

Raven sighed. Somehow, she didn’t think that was the real reason.

“We’re wasting time, let’s head to the town.” Robin said seriously.

The five titans nodded, and with Beast Boy leading the way, they slowly made their way to the village.

***

background music (http://www.midishrine.com/mshrine/psx/Kingdom_Hearts/Traverse_town.mid) (click and select 'open')

The town was a typical quiet village. The buildings were all cottages that looked as though they were from the middle ages, while the streets were cobbled with stone and filled with crowds of people. Merchants, setting up their trading carts on the side, happily greeted the new visitors, while the other villagers simply stood where they were, chatting away in their own small little groups.

“Alright guys, before we head out, let’s stock up on goods. Everyone, look inside your pouches and see how many coins you have.”

The Five titans reached into their pouches, and upon finding some gold coins, they all piled them up into one bag. Moments later, they were all standing in front of the merchant in the village, who had hundreds of swords, guns, potions and magical items stocked in his cart.

“Ok, so one hundred….not bad, it could buy us a few potions and ethers.” Beast Boy said firmly, although Raven could not believe the absurdity of this situation.

“Why can’t we just buy the big stuff?” Cyborg said in annoyance as he saw the giant cyber cannon that was on sale.

“OH?” The Merchant, a fat smiling man with a moustache, pointed at the item. “You mean that artifact? Well, I can give it to you, for a fair price of course.”

“What is it?” Cyborg asked.

The Merchant smiled. “That’ll be a butterfly net, a rare ambrosia flower, a rusted out toaster, and a magical lamp from the dark bowels of Hades.”

“WHAT?!” Cyborg shouted.

Beast Boy pushed Cyborg out of the way. “A few potions will do.”

“Ok Beast Boy, now what?” Robin asked.

“There should be a field outside this village, where we can fight some low level monsters. That should be easy enough for us. Plus we can make some money.” Beast Boy said happily, the Five titans followed Beast Boy out of the market, and soon, they were heading out of the town into a small clearing.

“How so?” Raven raised an eyebrow.

“It’s a proven fact Rae, monsters are forever cursed to walk the Earth with gold they cannot spend. Comes with being Evil I guess.” Beast Boy shrugged as he led the Titans away from the village.

Cyborg sighed, pulling out his broad sword impatiently. “Whatever Beast Boy, let’s just head over to that field, and chop us up some monster….”

The Five titans entered the field now, and saw the monsters…….

…….Cute little pink blobs with smily faces on them, and cute little caterpillars.

“..butt?” Cyborg widened his eyes in surprise.

“Alright!” Beast Boy grinned. “Titans, let’s go!”

Raven gave a confused look on her face. “You’ve gotta be kidding me….”

***
click and select 'open' (http://www.midishrine.com/mshrine/psx/Final_Fantasy_7/1-09%20ShinRa%20Company%20Xg.mid)

Meanwhile, outside the village, the army of mechwarriors were soon joined by squads of black robed ninjas and huge tanks that were supported by mechanical legs, sort of like a giant animal, only this one packed heat. The army formed a semi circle around the village, as if some invisible force stopped them.

The commander of this large army, a droid, stood quietly as a view screen popped up in front of him.

“Report commander.” Control Freak shouted through the com link.

“The enemy are harboring inside the village, we are holding positions until further instructions.”

“WHAT?! Don’t you realize that if we don’t attack now, they’ll have time to level up?” Control Freak shouted furiously.

“Negative, it is impossible, we cannot attack an unarmed village, however easy that may be. It is against protocol”

The Villain growled. “I want those Titans, not excuses…we’re bad guys, CHEAT!!”

Control Freak pointed his control at the droid, and clicked a button. Seconds later, the droid nodded. “Roger Roger.”

At that instant, the entire robot, ninja and tank army passed the town borders, and rolled towards town.

Control Freak meanwhile, in his secret dark lair, laughed maniacally.

“Excellent, and while the Titans are distracted….I will have time to prepare for their demise… WAH…Hahahahahahahhahhahahaha!” The villain laughed insanely, as a massive group of shadowy figures gathered behind him.

***
background music (http://www.midishrine.com/mshrine/psx/Kingdom_Hearts/Traverse_town.mid) (click and select 'open')

The Five titans, having spent some time leveling up in the field, walked back into town.

“Booyah. Now that was a good work out.” Cyborg smirked. “now let’s go cash the loot and get out of this place!”

“O….i do hope that it is the last innocent creature we must destroy.” Starfire said sadly.

“Hey, at least we got some items out of it.” Beast Boy smirked.

“How does a soup spoon (http://img141.exs.cx/img141/886/coronationovalsoupspoonsmall3z.jpg), a "best of david hasselhoff" CD (http://img94.exs.cx/img94/8425/b00005q8ug01lzzzzzzz4cv.jpg) and a banana (http://img59.exs.cx/img59/2685/images3gw.jpg) count as Items?” Raven asked in annoyance.

“Well…they were spinning and flashing! That must mean they were important. Who knows! We might need to use this!” Beast Boy exclaimed.

“Whatever…” Raven sighed.
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CLICK and select 'OPEN' (http://www.midishrine.com/mshrine/psx/Final_Fantasy_7/1-10%20Fighting%20Xg.mid)

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"What's that sound?" Robin asked

"Uh oh...." was all Beast Boy said. "Get ready guys..."

As they walked into town, the peaceful mood was suddenly replaced by explosions, screams and running civilians. The Five Titans were confused at first, but then they suddenly found the source of the terror. Mechwarriors and tanks rolled around the street, trampling cottages and carts, while a huge swarm of ninjas jumped from rooftop to rooftop.

“Titans, Go!” Beast Boy shouted, and instantly, the RPG titans attacked.

Cyborg was the first to go, running up to one of the giant mechwarriors.
TARGET LOCKED.

The Mechwarrior attacked, firing its lasers and missiles at Cyborg. But the armored swordsman was quicker, Cyborg swerved left and right, dodging the explosions and lasers, then reaching the Mechwarrior’s legs, his swung his sword clean through the gigantic foot.

Before the Mechwarrior even had time to fall, Cyborg was already jumping up, and with a ‘Booyah’ sliced it clean in half.

The Mechwarrior exploded into a cloud of digital dust, and Cyborg proceeded to the next enemy.

Robin grunted as he jump kicked a ninja in the stomach, dodging two more sword swipes in the process. Reaching into his belt for a dagger, he threw it straight at the ninja, instantly vaporizing him in a cloud of smoke.

Another ninja went behind Robin, but Robin was quicker. A quick flash of light, and a smoke bomb suddenly revealed that the ninja had been magically disarmed, tied to a wooden stake in the ground, and unconscious.

Two tanks rolled down the street, complete with battalions of armed droids.

At the end of the street, stood Starfire, wearing her Amazonian-like armor, while holding the bow in her hand.

Starfire placed an arrow onto the bow now, pulling back the string.

The Tamaranian quickly let the arrow loose, and it hit the tanks with such a massive force that it went through both of them, causing the vehicles to explode. The massive shockwave reverberated through the street, scattering all the droids like toys.

“Oh how joyous! I have done the PWNING!” Starfire jumped for joy in the air.

Then she suddenly stopped. “What strange language did I just say?”

Meanwhile, only a few rooftops away, twenty ninjas, each one armed with swords, formed a circle around Raven.

As they closed in, the Dark robed Titan gave a chant.

“Azarath…Metrion…” Raven reached into her robes.

“Ninja stars.” Raven revealed ten Kunai blades, and in an instant, she spun in a full circle, throwing ninja stars and kunais out with pin point accuracy.

Ten ninjas exploded into a cloud of dust, while the remaining ten, undaunted that Raven just took out half their comrades, rushed.

In the crazy sword frenzy, Raven nimbly dodged every sword swipe, back flipping a few feet away from the horde. Three ninjas appeared behind her, raising their blades up and charging.

It was at this moment that Raven reached into her cloak and unsheathed two ninja swords, one in each hand, masterfully parrying all three of the ninjas. A sword swipe reduced a ninja into digital dust. Two ninjas thrusted from both sides, attempting to sandwich Raven between the blades, but the assassin-class Titan side stepped away, trapping the arms of one of the ninjas with her own arm and kicking the other in the face. Five more ninjas rushed in, and Raven took the ninja who’s arm she trapped, and swung his sword across two of his friends, vaporizing them instantly. She then threw the ninja into the group, knocking them all back, before dispatching them with her ninja stars.

Within seconds, the remaining ten ninjas exploded into dust, leaving only their swords and masks behind as evidence of their defeat.

Beast Boy meanwhile, was arguing with the merchant, while the rest of the town was burning and in ruins.

“COME ON DUDE! Your village is being attacked and there are giant robots outside your store, can you at least let me BORROW it for a few minutes?”

The fat smiling merchant continued to talk in his friendly tone.

“Yes I realize that a giant Mechwarrior is burning our village down, but I can’t let you have this Mechwarrior-Slaying sword for anything less than 5,000 gold.” The merchant smiled.

“Don’t make me turn you into a kupo!” Beast Boy waved his staff.

A hand grabbed Beast Boy’s shoulder. It was Robin.

“Uh, beast boy….we beat the level.” Robin said firmly.

"Yes! we are victorious!" (http://www.midishrine.com/mshrine/psx/Final_Fantasy_7/1-11%20Fanfare%20Xg.mid) Starfire said elatedly.

Beast Boy turned around, and saw nothing but flaming wreckage of mechwarriors, tanks, and droids litter the streets.

“Aw, I didn’t get a chance to do anything. What a rip.” The Green Titan said in an irritated and annoyed tone.

“So…what now friends?” Starfire and Cyborg appeared next, while Raven jumped up from the rooftops.

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Suddenly, the entire village disappeared, replaced by a black vacant and empty space.

The five titans blinked in confusion.

“So, I guess that’s level 1.” Raven replied dryly.

Cyborg scratched his head “Um…Where the heck are we?”

“Some universe between games …” Robin wondered out loud.

Beast Boy shrugged, but then he realized what was going on as he watched giant white letters form behind the Titans, spelling out the words…“Please wait….”

Beast Boy grumbled.

“Aw man, we’re at the loading screen!”

Pun-3x

03-25-2006, 02:44 PM

Heh, figured on the loading screen.

"Roger Roger,"

And I was already thinking that voicetype by the first line. :D

This is fun so far! I'm a big fan of the now-defunct RPGWorld Comic (and I've checked out 8-bit theater, in case that gets brought up) and I always loved the idea in RPGWC with Cherry reacting to all the video-game 'rules' from the standpoint of a person in real life. Sure, it eventually got stale, but it went right for the throat of some of the more obvious RPG boundaries. ;)

Dunno if I Like the idea of the Titans leveling up THAT well that fast, but I suppose we gotta move these kids along to the next level. It's going to be great seeing what else you come up with. :anime:

Matt A

03-26-2006, 06:56 AM

Okay, so I'm not all that familiar with the world of RPGs, but that was still a very entertaining piece of satire. Every cliche and absurdity was examined, ridiculed and joyously manipulated: I liked the two Merchant skits in particular. Better yet, the brief bit on women in games was easily the most barbed thing I've ever seen you write...and on that note, will we ever get to see Lara Croft make an appearance?;) :evil:

“Oh how joyous! I have done the PWNING!” Starfire jumped for joy in the air.

Then she suddenly stopped. “What strange language did I just say?”

Genius. Just genius.:anime:

Oh yes, and let's not forget the coolest thing of all: Raven going ninja. Seriously, that was a piece of fan-service beyond compere.:anime:

-Matt A-

PS: Like the Loading Screen. Very inventive.:anime:

Arrakhat

03-26-2006, 11:09 AM

Control Freak pointed his control at the droid, and clicked a button. Seconds later, the droid nodded. “Roger Roger.”
You had me at that point, hands down. All in all though, the best part was the question as to why Raven and Starfire had less...weapons.:D Starfire is quite the pwner.

DeathscytheVII

03-27-2006, 05:58 PM

And I was already thinking that voicetype by the first line. :D

This is fun so far! I'm a big fan of the now-defunct RPGWorld Comic (and I've checked out 8-bit theater, in case that gets brought up) and I always loved the idea in RPGWC with Cherry reacting to all the video-game 'rules' from the standpoint of a person in real life. Sure, it eventually got stale, but it went right for the throat of some of the more obvious RPG boundaries. ;)

Dunno if I Like the idea of the Titans leveling up THAT well that fast, but I suppose we gotta move these kids along to the next level. It's going to be great seeing what else you come up with. :anime:

HAHA yup, gotta love that voice type. I actaully haven't watched 8-bit theatre yet, but i do agree, the concept of RPG viewing from a real life standpoint is too good to resist.

As for the levelling up, you pretty much said it, but then again Pun, when was it mentioned that they had maxed out their stats? :D

Okay, so I'm not all that familiar with the world of RPGs, but that was still a very entertaining piece of satire. Every cliche and absurdity was examined, ridiculed and joyously manipulated: I liked the two Merchant skits in particular. Better yet, the brief bit on women in games was easily the most barbed thing I've ever seen you write...and on that note, will we ever get to see Lara Croft make an appearance?;) :evil:

Oh yes, and let's not forget the coolest thing of all: Raven going ninja. Seriously, that was a piece of fan-service beyond compere.:anime:

-Matt A-

PS: Like the Loading Screen. Very inventive.:anime:

Thanks Mate! I'm glad you found that hilarious haha. And yes, the women in games....:D:D:D

Lara may not make an appearance, but there will be some....i promise :evil:

And yes. Raven + Ninja, XD. would be awesome if it happened in the real show.

You had me at that point, hands down. All in all though, the best part was the question as to why Raven and Starfire had less...weapons.:D Starfire is quite the pwner

Yes, so did i sufficiently satisfy your need for SW references? ;) hahahaha. WHo knows, maybe there will be more....

Thanks for the good word ;) il iked that comment as well.

Death58

03-28-2006, 02:38 PM

I just have to know. . .when Starfire says, "Yes! We are victorious," the song that plays there is from Sonic: The Hedgehog, right? Just curious. . .

Anyways, I have been replying late to everything on the board, so I also want to apologize to you for replying late. This was a great update with a lot of things that have happened to me in video games(that ever smiling merchant. . .reminds me of Ninja Gaiden. . .why couldn't he just let me have the sword to kill all the ninjas outside his shop)so it was funny to see the Titans deal with that. Plus, Starfire and Raven's outfits being mentioned was really funny. There was a lot of stuff here to like about this chapter to like, and Star even felt bad for killing the small little creatures just to level up. I liked it a lot, and I can't wait to see what other mentions of video games you're going to make.

Pun-3x

03-28-2006, 09:18 PM

The "We are Victorious" midi is actually the victory piece from Final Fantasy VII. Though, I'm a fan for the old style (also featured in FFXI). Still works quite well. :anime:

JAG

04-07-2006, 01:33 AM

The ending to 'Trial' was great. Lot's of awsome fight scenes, more very cool and evil Zasz, the Headbutt from Hell, Val-Yor becoming a likeable character...a good ending all around.:)

As for the current story, I have but one word to say: Sweet.

This is one of, maybe the best so far, and it's only the beginning.

Once upon a time, there was a happy little place, with happy little creatures. Bunnies hoped and birds chirped in the wide open fields, filled with trees, rivers and large groves of flowers. Butterflies, vibrant with all the colors of the rainbow, filled the sky, which was bright and sunny. Something straight out of a fairytale from a child’s book.

Then came the missiles, lasers and Mechwarriors.

Needless to say, it wasn’t so happy anymore.

One of my favorite parts.:D

I can't wait to see what games come next, so post more ASAP!

Ps. Ninja Raven kicked ass.;)

Pun-3x

04-08-2006, 02:46 AM

This is also like a kind of "Kingdom Hearts" as well, in that we'll be seeing different game worlds as we go along. (And gratefully, not any of them Disney! ...right?...) Perhaps even some character cameos?

----Pun, who brings this up because he's playing KH2. Naturally.

DeathscytheVII

04-10-2006, 04:00 AM

just have to know. . .when Starfire says, "Yes! We are victorious," the song that plays there is from Sonic: The Hedgehog, right? Just curious. . .

Anyways, I have been replying late to everything on the board, so I also want to apologize to you for replying late. This was a great update with a lot of things that have happened to me in video games(that ever smiling merchant. . .reminds me of Ninja Gaiden. . .why couldn't he just let me have the sword to kill all the ninjas outside his shop)so it was funny to see the Titans deal with that. Plus, Starfire and Raven's outfits being mentioned was really funny. There was a lot of stuff here to like about this chapter to like, and Star even felt bad for killing the small little creatures just to level up. I liked it a lot, and I can't wait to see what other mentions of video games you're going to make.
As pun said, its the victory MIDI from FFVII :D i never played FFVI Pun, so i wouldn't know :( HAHA yup. Glad you liked all the references Pun, starfire and Raven's outfits ;).....well if i have time, look forward to some fanart. i must say. this episode will be the most visually and audio interactive out of this Season.

Look forward to more little gems in thsi chap :D

The ending to 'Trial' was great. Lot's of awsome fight scenes, more very cool and evil Zasz, the Headbutt from Hell, Val-Yor becoming a likeable character...a good ending all around.:)

As for the current story, I have but one word to say: Sweet.

This is one of, maybe the best so far, and it's only the beginning.

Thanks JAG. The headbutt from hell ;) if only they would animate that haha. Glad you liked Zasz, im very proud of him as a villain ;). And This one being the best story?Aw shucks :anime: *blushes*

Yes, Ninja Raven rox!

This is also like a kind of "Kingdom Hearts" as well, in that we'll be seeing different game worlds as we go along. (And gratefully, not any of them Disney! ...right?...) Perhaps even some character cameos?

----Pun, who brings this up because he's playing KH2. Naturally.

you have that game!? Curse you...the nearest time ill own one is this christmas, when PS3 comes out haha. Or i can mooch it off my friends when they finish it. :o

Seriously, is it great? IGN gave it 7.6 out of 10, and although i know thats a bs review...i'd like to hear what other ppl think. Alot of my friends say that KHII > KH 1. True?

Anyways, NEXT UPDATE!

LEVEL 2

PLay (http://www.geocities.com/caress06uk/Resident_Evil_2_-_Main_Hall.mid)

The black screen disappeared instantly, and the five titans soon found themselves standing in the middle of a deserted city street. Not that it was like any normal intersection, papers and wreckage strewn the roads, while burning cars and heaps of twisted metal were on the sidewalks. Traffic lights were torn down, windows were smashed and litter was all over the place. It was also night time, although the burning silhouette of the city was still visible even in the darkness.

There was no whisper, not even a sign of life, just the eerie sound flaming wreckage, which illuminated the entire street in an ominous orange light.

“Recognize this game B?” Cyborg said uneasily as he took in the entire scene.

“Barely Cy….I think its called ‘They Hunger’” Beast Boy, still in his mage garments, replied cautiously, eyeing his surroundings in case of an attack.

“Who’s they?” Raven raised an eyebrow in curiousity, although she honestly didn’t want to know the answer.

Suddenly, the atmosphere was cut with a blood curling scream.

“PLEASE! Don’t!! AAAAAAARGGGHHH!”

Sounds of torn flesh and crunched up bones echoed from the alleyway, sending shivers down the Titans’ spines as the scream continued for another few seconds, before being cut short by a sword slice. Seconds later, all the dark alleyways around the titans began glowing, with thousands of red eyes.

“I think we’re about to find out….” Robin said seriously, arming himself with his trusty daggers while Raven and Starfire prepared their respective weapons, bows and kunai at the ready.

“This is gonna get ugly.” Cyborg unsheathed his sword.

More moans and monstrous roars emerged from the alleyways, as the monsters revealed themselves. There were undead rotting samurai (http://www.capcom-central.com/concept/ow/11.jpg), their flesh peeling away from their faces and bodies as their lifeless eyes gazed hungrily at their next meal. More flashes of light emerged from the alley as other demon ninjas appeared, these ones possessing three cybernetic eyes, along with a blade that was grafted to their arms. The same rotting stench of flesh mixed with steel emerged from these demon ninjas (http://www.capcom-central.com/concept/ow/09.jpg) as well. These enemies moved like bugs, crawling all over the walls of the buildings that surrounded the heroes.

“Titans, Go!” Robin shouted, and immediately all five RPG titans attacked.

Raven unleashed a storm of Ninja stars, while Starfire shot her arrows into the massive crowd. Robin rushed forward, slicing the nearest samurai zombie with his daggers while Beast Boy shot a fireball into the stomach of another.

The Samurai’s and Ninjas took the punishment, moaning sadistically as they were continually impaled and stabbed by swords and stars, but they kept moving, not even bothering to flinch when an arm came off, or when a hole was sliced through their stomach.

“Our attacks are not doing ‘the damage’!” Starfire said with alarm.

“Of course!” Beast Boy slapped his head.

“DUH, we’re in a survival horror game. Everyone! Search the rubble next to you!” Beast Boy shouted as he kicked open the door of a nearby crashed car, reaching inside for an item.

Another demon ninja was sent flying by Cyborg, but the decapitated ninja simply put its head back on its shoulders, advancing once again.

“For what?” Raven said impatiently as she dug into a nearby dumpster.

“For THIS!” Beast Boy said triumphantly as he emerged from the car with a brand spanking new Shotgun!

Cyborg literally dropped his jaw when he saw this. “But…why would it be lying there?”

“It’s a zombie game Cy.” Beast Boy shrugged. “Shoot first, shoot later, shoot some more, when everything’s dead, THEN ask the question.” He smirked as he let a demon zombie eat a full blast of shotgun in the face, digitizing it into dust completely.

“OH! I have found something!” Starfire gasped as she reached into a garbage can, pulling out a rocket launcher straight out of nowhere and blasting a horde of samurai zombies straight into next Wednesday.

Soon, Cyborg and Robin found their respective weapons in a mail box, and they began blasting as well. The entire intersection lit up in gunfire and explosions as blood and zombie guts began spilling.

“This is supposed to be a game?” Raven said, obviously not amused.

“What kind of sick twisted person gets enjoyment out of-“

“WOOOOOOOOOT!” Cyborg shouted as he ripped through a crowd of demon ninjas with a mini-cannon he found. Bullets littered the wall, tearing apart brick and splattering blood all over the street as thousands of empty shells fell onto the ground. The vast force of kinetic energy simply ripped the front ranks of the ninjas into bone, while the rest were torn up like Swiss cheese.

“Whatever.” Raven sighed.

The last zombie fell with a groan, and soon, the titans were back to where they started, in a street, now bathed with blood.

One minute later

“SO………know to get out of here?” Raven asked, annoyed.

“Yeah! There’s a puzzle Raven. We have to get machine parts to jumpstart that tram car over there.” Beast Boy pointed to the train just at the end of the road. “And we’ll be off to the next level. It’s a tricky puzzle, the parts are scattered all over town, we have to go to City Hall, the Park and A family restaurant.”

“Why don’t we just go to the auto parts store?” Robin asked, slightly confused.

“Where’s the fun in that?” Beast Boy replied.

5 minutes later

The five titans walked throughout town, collecting the necessary items they needed while at the same time, battling hordes of demon ninjas, mutated spider freaks, and robots.

“Ok, Rae.” Beast Boy said seriously as he halted the team at an intersection.

“Me, Cyborg, and Robin will go through that hallway with our big fancy guns and hordes of ammunition, while you and Star, carrying barely anything at all, will go through that dark hallway to see if there’s anything dangerous.”

“I got a better idea.” Raven replied back, grabbing Beast Boy by the collar and throwing him into the darkness.

“AIIEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!” Beast Boy screamed.
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10 Minutes later

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“There!” Beast Boy brushed his hands together in triumph as he took time to view his work. The three machine parts were in place, and the tram was ready to go to the next level.

“How glorious friend!” Starfire said joyfully. “And the puzzle was simple once you have explained it to us! All we had to do was get a green gem from the old family restaurant, then retrace our steps back to where we started to get a blue gem, then put it in a clock to open the lock to city hall, where we discovered the statue of the mayor that contained a bronze book. Then with the book we were able to access the power plant, where we got the machine part, Then we had to go back to the fountain in the park to replace the book in a slot so that we may take the bronze compass, so that we may use the bronze compass to put back into the mayor’s statue so that it would reveal the car battery we needed to run the train! It was so obvious!” The Tamaranian clapped her hands.

“Man this city has problems.” Cyborg scratched his aching head. “And I’m not talking about the flesh eating ninjas.”

“Can we go now?” Raven said impatiently, sitting on one of the tram seats.

“ALL ABOARD!” Beast Boy smirked as he pulled the switch, sending the train into the next level.

END MUSIC
***

Meanwhile, deep within the bowels of villain’s lair, Control Freak watched as the Titans progressed.

“Well….it seems that one titan knows a little too much about this world.” Control freak rubbed his hands together menacingly as he sat behind a dimly lit desk, watching video footage of the titans.

“Let’s see how the titans handle this alone. AHAHAHAHAHAHA!” Control freak laughed, turning his controller towards BB and zapping the green titan.

***
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LEVEL 3

“Alright guys!” Beast Boy laughed as he was the first to enter the world. “Let’s start!”

Beast Boy turned around, and found out that he was alone. No one was there.

“Uh….Guys?” Beast Boy said nervously as his voice echoed throughout the darkness.

“What game is this anyway?” The Green titan asked curiously as he looked at his surroundings.

OH COME ON! (http://www.espacios.net/javeman/dktitans.jpg)
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LEVEL 4

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“Beast Boy? Friend?” Starfire shouted into the darkness. Robin and Cyborg looked around the room, the walls were cold and dank, like some sort of medieval dungeon……

“Great, how’re we supposed to know what game this is without B?” Cyborg said

“We’ll figure it out ourselves. Beast Boy knows his way around, he should be fine.” Robin said. “What’s important, is our immediate situation.”

Suddenly, a blinding light filled the room as torches on both sides of the hallway flickered too life. The silence was quickly penetrated by a loud monstrous booming voice that shook the entire chamber.

A gigantic monster, almost twelve foot tall with a demonic edge in his eyes, and carrying a large axe, approached the titans. His appearance was dominating, and even his breathing made Cyborg and Robin recoil back in disgust and wariness.

“FOOLS! You have trespassed into the forbidden dungeon! Who among you shall be the first to fall before my blade? Either surrender now, or be destroyed. Either way, your screams shall fill these darkened rooms with anguished cries of mercy which will not be headed and you’re friends shall see their fate first hand and cower at the little time they have remaining on this earth!”

“I’ve heard better.” Raven stepped forward, whipping out her ninja swords, as if completely oblivious to the threat the monster posed.

She smiled. And that alone sent shivers down Robin and Cyborg’s spine.

“Ever wonder what it feels like to Cr4p out blood?” Ninja Raven smirked.

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“Yet more strange fascinating game language…” Starfire observed.

“I think someone’s getting a little too much into this game….” Cyborg whispered.

***

LEVEL 6 *yes I know I skipped 5*

Soldiers by the thousands scoured the compound, running around looking for signs of the intruder, while at the same time reinforcing their positions in preparation for the Titans. Tanks, Jets and helicopters stood by at the ready.

“Ok Beast Boy….. Just stay calm……This is just a game….only a game.” The green titan hid behind a wall, dodging more soldiers as they passed.

When the soldiers had passed, Beast Boy peeked outside the base to get a look at the surroundings.

The playing field itself was a small map, composed of two fortresses, each ones on opposite sides.

The computer team, or Control Freak’s team, had three hundred tons of reinforced cement and iron plating. Dozens of sentry guns, gatling guns and sniper towers.

While the Titans base, prepared by Control Freak, was a dinky shack in the middle of the desert.

“Why that cheating little….” Beast Boy pounded his fists together. Well, Control Freak was a bad guy after all, he shouldn’t have expected a fair fight, but this is just….low.

“Lollerskates!” An enemy officer jumped up as he saw Beast Boy leaning against the wall. “Enemy spotted!”

A grin came on Beast Boy’s face as an idea developed in his head and the green titan approached the officer…...

***

Back in the center of the enemy base, a hologram of Control Freak appeared in the center of the room, where all the enemy officers had gathered.

“I want no mistakes soldiers! The Titans must not get past this point. I don’t care if you have to camp, hack or be cheap to do it! Send forth all our legions and crush them!”

“YES MIGHTY LEADER! OMGZ LOLZ!” The counter terrorists and soldiers all saluted.

“But sirzz! We all have wall and aim hackzorz….is this….. not performing illegal operation?” One of the soldiers asked.

“I will make it legal.”

With that, Control Freak laughed again, disappearing from the screen.

Another officer came up now, this one covered in shiny yellow metals and wearing a fine green military suit. The noobs and the soldiers didn’t notice however, that the guy’s face was also green. After all…don’t soldiers modify their skins before battle?

“ALRIGHT YOU MAGGOTS!” the officer shouted out loud at the crowd.

“I’ve been looking at this plan of yours….and I’m disappointed. I thought you were supposed to be l33t man!” The general said in disappointment.

“But…we followed all of Control Freak’s commands sir!” One of the soldiers, a Sniper class, replied.

“Well, we’re doing this my way now!” The general said politely. “Anyone got any questions?”

“Ya! Y r we listening to u-“

“GOOD!” The general snapped.

“Alright! Alpha squad!” The general pointed his baton at a group of soldiers in the corner. “You’re job will be to proceed to sector 3 on the other side of the map, at which point I will order an air strike on your area. Remember to duck and cover!”

The General turned to the other members of the group.

“Terrorists, I want you to spend all your time constructing an elaborate human pyramid in the middle of the field, and then carving an image of me in the sand with bullet holes. Counter terrorists, I want you all to camp at some remote god forsaken corner of the map and nade spam the Alpha squad, they could use the exercise.”

The Counter Terrorists nodded. “Affirmative.”

“Squad Green Machine, I want you to whore every vehicle on the map, anything you can get your hands on. Not only tanks, but also jeeps, Humvees and tricycles, and drive around aimlessly. Don’t forget to chase some of Alpha squad!”

One of the Alpha squad members, suddenly offended, wanted to say something but the general was already beating him to the punch, poking his belly with his baton.

“LOOK AT THIS MAN! He’s tubby! So make him run extra!”

“Everyone else! Proceed to the nearest jet fighter. And you BETTER have no clue how to fly them! Our mission is to bury the enemy under our flaming wreckage, I want to see craters! And smoking bodies!”

The pilots raised a hand for questioning, but the general interrupted.

“And for your convenience! I’ve provided each of you with top gun sound tracks. Sing with me! HIGHWAY TOOOO DA DANGER ZONE!”

“AHEM….” The general coughed. “Any questions?”

A soldier raised his hand. “But sir…how about us…..”

The General sighed. “…fine, Pyros, go nuts.”

“W00t!”
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Five seconds later
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http://www.huge-entity.com/blogger2/evo-battle-1-explosion.jpg

Beast Boy: My work is done
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BACK TO LEVEL 4…Somehow

Cyborg slashed away at the next enemy, a giant Venus fly trap monster with plant tentacle arms. Before vaporizing into digital dust, the monster let out one last inhuman roar as it collapsed, throwing up more gold coins and items to Cyborg.

“Hey Cyborg! That was mine! Quit hogging all the exp!” Robin said rather annoyingly.

“Yo man, that was my kill! Not my fault you puny little thing you call a dagger can’t cut its way out of a paper bag!” Cyborg retorted back.

“Why I oughta…” Robin shook his fist violently.

“It seems that being in this world for extended periods of time has affected our friend’s behaviour. Wouldn’t you say so Friend Raven?” Starfire turned to Raven, who, to her surprise, was crouching quietly in a corner, as if stalking a prey.

“Shh….quiet Star, I’m trying to bag the legendary rare Yojimbo for more gold coins.”

Starfire watched in amazement as her friends took in their roles so seriously. The Tamaranian simply shrugged….

“Does anyone notice that….the rooms are all the same. The only difference is that the monsters get bigger, slimier and harder to fight as we go?” Cyborg, quickly forgetting his feud with Robin, asked as the Titans recollected themselves.

“We should be done the level soon anyway.” Robin nodded. “Let’s go.”

Raven was in the lead, while the other three followed. The titans walked quietly down a dark hall, its stones and torches looking exactly identical to the room they first entered when they reached this level.

The four titans walked on, and Raven went into another room. As expected, there were even more monsters than the last room. But these monsters were huge, towering at least two stories high. From giant man eating plants to robotic monstrosities, the thousands of monsters in the dungeon room glared viciously at Raven as if they wanted to devour her right there. Aside from the huge monsters, the floors of the room were booby trapped with spike and lava pits, while the walls had menacing blades coming in and out of them, making it easy for any foolish intruder who gets too close to lose an arm.

“Hey, Rae….what do you see?” Cyborg whispered.

“Experience points.”

***

Control Freak spat the soda he was enjoying as he saw the charred ruins of his base and soldiers burning on what was left of Level 6. Somehow, that green freak had managed to not only skip two levels, but also remove an obstacle from the Titans path…

That green rut would pay…..

“Sir.” A robotic droid reported to Control Freak.

“WHAT?!” The villain said in an annoyed tone.

“The titans have passed level 4 sir. It would appear the dungeon has been destroyed.”

“It makes no difference my puny minion…..it is time to send them to….the 32 bit world!”

“Roger roger…”

***

Robin, Cyborg, Starfire, and Raven suddenly found themselves teleported back to the next level, which looked eerily like Titans tower. But for some strange reason…it felt…different.

“Hey ya’ll! We got our powers back!” Cyborg rejoiced as he turned his arm into a sonic cannon, very glad to lose the armor that kept weighing him down.

“Azarath…Metrion…Zinthos.” Raven tried an experiment chant. “Finally…”

“Um friends….but something is still….different.” Starfire said.

“Star’s right.” Robin concurred. “Something just doesn’t feel ri-“

“PREPARE TO BE DESTROYED TITANS!” Four shadowy figures appeared in front of the Titans, all ready to fight. In the darkness, they could not see who they were.

Raven instantly gauged the opponents, then turned back to Starfire and Robin.

“I’ll take the three tall ones and fight them on the roof. You fight them here.” Raven said rather confidently.

“But Raven…Three against one? Is it not better if we fight at the same time?” Starfire asked.

“Don’t worry guys, I got one of Beast Boy’s items that will do the trick.” Raven nodded.

“Alright Rae, good luck.” Cyborg nodded.

Raven teleported to the rooftop now, and with her, went the three large shadowy villains.

“Enough talking!” The remaining video game villain shouted. “I’ll challenge any one of you to a fight! ONE ON ONE!”

“Bring it on.” Robin, instantly volunteering, stepped up to the plate.

Meanhile, on the Rooftop

Play :D (http://members.shaw.ca/Kambiu/Theme%20-%20Mortal%20Kombat%20Techno%20Remix.mp3)

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LEVEL 5

READ Pg1 (http://x11.putfile.com/4/9902292557.jpg)

Page 2 (http://members.shaw.ca/Kambiu/Comic1.jpg)

Page 3:D (http://members.shaw.ca/Kambiu/Comic2.jpg)

Page 4 :D (http://members.shaw.ca/Kambiu/comic3.jpg)

LEVEL 7

The level suddenly dissipated now, and the five titans once again found themselves in a new setting. This time, they were all sitting on seats in a military aircraft. Their regular uniforms were gone, replaced by military fatigues and camouflage gear.

“Alright team!” A military officer at the doorway of the plane shouted above the roar of the engines to the Titans. “Your mission is to infiltrate this base, destroy the enemy’s prototype weapon, and make it back here safely with any useful information.”

“Alright! Cool!” Beast Boy, wearing a stealth suit with high tech laser vision goggles, clapped happily. “This is one of my favourite games!”

“What’s the plan?” Robin asked the military officer seriously.

“We’ll proceed undetected in our stealth aircraft, when we reach the base, we’ll drop you on the outermost part of the fortress, and from there, you can sneak inside and fulfill the mission.”

“But…if this plan is so high tech and stealthy and all, can’t you drop us off inside the base so that our job is well…you know..easier?” Cyborg asked.

“Look son…” The officer walked right up to Cyborg and shoved his badge into Cyborg’s face.

“What does this say? BOY?” The officer shouted.

“Navy….seal?” Cyborg squinted.

“That’s right sucka, and I’ve been soldiering while you were still in the crib. Now who do you think is more qualified soldier here?” The soldier’s voice was icy, like steel.

“you?” Cyborg said quietly.

“Good man. Besides, there’s nothing to worry about. This is a routine mission. Happens all the time.” The soldier said comfortingly.

“OH man, we’re so dead.” Beast Boy said urgently.

“Why?” Raven asked. “The guy said it was a routine mission.”

“That’s the thing. In video games, routine missions ALWAYs go wrong!”

“NOW be good little marines and jump!!” The soldier pulled the switch. And just then, the seats under the titans opened up into holes, and all five heroes were sent falling down onto the island base, screaming.

"REMEMBER!" THe soldier shouted from the plane. "ITS NOT THE FALL. ITS THE SUDDEN STOP!"

***

Credits:

Comic: naruto vs robin by Cadaverous (http://www.snafu-comics.com/forum/profile.php?mode=viewprofile&u=3015)
Sprites From: DEEKMAN
Midis from http://www.geocities.com/caress06uk/remidis.html
Beast Boy and Donkey Kong by Jave

Matt A

04-10-2006, 06:44 AM

Pun-3x

04-11-2006, 11:20 PM

First off.

I'm not so convinced our General is who we think.

In fact, I'm absolutely convinced that our General of Level 6...

...is a cat.

Funny, I didn't know Beast Boy was a VG Cats fan :D (yeah, yeah, I could give credit to you, but it's more fun to give it to Beast Boy! :p )

Oh, the site gags. I have to also approve of "approved!" My, how much sense it makes...

Okay, I'm just gonna say it. I want to see some Tron action. Hell, even Kingdom Hearts II has some Tron action! (advertised, and a pic on the back of the book, so I doubt I'm spoiling anything here.... :sweat: )

Great chapter. Probably one of my tops so far. Keep the gags coming!

DeathscytheVII

04-14-2006, 08:09 PM

I think I actually lost count of the gag rate. Seriously, I was laughing from the first word to the last, or near enough, even if just at the sheer glorious geekiness of it all. But I think the hard-fought title of Best Gag might just go to Raven turning into a cold-blooded psychopath: some people just shouldn't play videogames.:eek:

And I think I'll never forget that comic. Approved? Very much so.:anime:

Though from here, I think things will be getting even more interesting. Especially now that Raven gets to play Solid Snake...:evil:

-Matt A-

PS: I've just had an interesting thought. Considering the riffs on gaming sex and violence, will we get to see a GTA parody in here?;)

LOL thanks matt. Yes, Raven, Psycho ninja XD = Awesome. and that comic, you know its true!!! Camaan haha.

Raven playing solid snake...maybe, havent quite figured out how that plot will work yet :S

Thanks for reading! though

First off.

I'm not so convinced our General is who we think.

In fact, I'm absolutely convinced that our General of Level 6...

...is a cat.

Funny, I didn't know Beast Boy was a VG Cats fan :D (yeah, yeah, I could give credit to you, but it's more fun to give it to Beast Boy! :p )

Oh, the site gags. I have to also approve of "approved!" My, how much sense it makes...

Okay, I'm just gonna say it. I want to see some Tron action. Hell, even Kingdom Hearts II has some Tron action! (advertised, and a pic on the back of the book, so I doubt I'm spoiling anything here.... :sweat: )

Great chapter. Probably one of my tops so far. Keep the gags coming!

AH you caught me :D VG cats = da awesome. I love that comic. Shoulda made BB transform into a green cat ;).

Tron action...eh........ XD, man i gotta get KH 2.

Thanks though!

Arrakhat

04-15-2006, 09:49 AM

Well. That was quite easily the best read I've had in weeks. Which kinda says a lot about my reading habits as of late.

That was plain fantastic. I loved the general ordering all of the soldiers to their specific tasks, and the sprite comics were great.

“Hey, Rae….what do you see?” Cyborg whispered.

“Experience points.”
For the record, Raven talking about cr4ping blood and this quote make her pretty damn scary. I think it's a good thing Raven declined playing video games with BB for so long.:sweat:

Death58

04-27-2006, 06:39 PM

Great to say the least. . .it took quite a while to get around to reading this. Awesome chapter, and I loved all the zombie references. The city full of zombies reminded me of Resident Evil 2, at least the beginning of the game. . .Not much I can really say that hasn't already been said. Keep it up Deathscythe.

PS: I saw your post about having 'The Batman' as a Lost Season. I say go for it.

DeathscytheVII

05-03-2006, 04:56 PM

Arrakhat: Thanks :D. And yes, SOME people shouldn't play Vid games ;)

Death58: Thanks! RE is one of my favourite games. You know, that puzzle i referenced was an actual one from RE3? IT was pretty messed. As for "The Batman", maybe ill settle for a few one shots instead. A season is too much commitment.

Level 7

Outside the main compound of the enemy base, two soldiers, dressed in Arctic warfare camouflage uniforms did their rounds in a snowy field, patrolling back and forth. Both were armed with rifles, and donned black ski masks.

Suddenly, one of the soldiers looked on the ground, “Whose footprints are these?”

The other soldier shrugged. “Let’s follow them.”

The two soldiers diligently went to their work, walking in a neat circle as the footprints led to nowhere.

“You know….it doesn’t look like they are going anywhere.” One soldier said.

“Well, the boss wants us to follow any footprints, so we follow the footprints!” The soldier replied back.

The partner shrugged, then suddenly looked up. “You hear something?”

“AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!”

A loud crash completely obliterated the two soldiers, as a giant mass fell from the sky, digging a huge crater into the ground.

“Well, that was most unpleasant.” Starfire said, brushing the snow off the sleeves of her camouflage gear.

“Yo dudes, check it out!” Beast Boy smirked as he placed green nightvision goggles over his head. “I’m Solid Snake.” The Green titan triumphantly did a cool stealth pose.

The rest of the titans however, just stared at him silently.

“Can we fire Beast Boy into the fort?” Raven asked.

“No, the world will never forgive us for that.” Cyborg replied.

“You do realize I can hear you?” Beast Boy said, slightly annoyed.

“Let’s focus Titans.” Robin said seriously. “The guy said we got to infiltrate that base and destroy a weapon to pass this level.”

The Five Titans looked at the base now, which was heavily fortified with reinforced concrete and cement plating. Watchtowers and spotlights scoured the perimeter on the grounds, giving light to the gatling gun and sniper emplacements on the walls. Added to that, was the dozens of soldiers who patrolled the gates and walls, each one armed to the teeth with assault rifles.

“So….what did the navy guy give us?” Cyborg asked curiously.

At that instant, every Titan reached into their gear.

“A tranquilizer pistol.” Robin said.

“I still have my ninja sword.” Raven waved it out triumphantly.

“Banana?” Beast Boy confusingly as he pulled out the two items he had, the one he got back from level one.

“And I have…..a box of rations.” Cyborg sighed.

“Do not despair friends!” Starfire said cheerfully. “For I have my own weapon!”

The Four Titans turned and saw that Starfire was carrying an RPG-7 Mark II. A reloadable, shoulder-fired, muzzle-loaded, recoilless antitank and antipersonnel rocket propelled grenade launcher that launches fin-stabilized, oversized rocket - assisted HEAT grenade (85-mm in the PG-7 version) from a smooth bore 40mm tube.

http://i.cnn.net/cnn/SPECIALS/2003/iraq/interactive/iraq.infantry/gallery.rpg-7.jpg (http://i.cnn.net/cnn/SPECIALS/2003/iraq/interactive/iraq.infantry/gallery.rpg-7.jpg)

“How does that work?!” Cyborg shouted.

“Whatever guys, the main point of this game is stealth.” Beast Boy whispered quietly. “We gotta sneak into the base through the back door, and avoid the guards, and fight the secret elite team of bad guys in there one at a time.”

“That’ll take hours though!” Robin said.

Beast Boy shrugged. “That’s how its done in Video games.”

“Whatever,” Raven stood up, taking her ninja sword with her. “You guys go in the back, I’ll just walk through the front door.”

“Um…aren’t you forgetting the hundreds of tanks, snipers, and guns there?” Cyborg asked.

“I’ll be sure to keep an eye out.” Raven said calmly as she walked on, disappearing through the thick blizzard as she made her way towards the fort.

“Think she’ll be ok?” Cyborg asked.

“Are you kidding me?” Beast Boy exclaimed. “This is the first time I’ve felt sorry for the bad guys.”

***

EMERGENCY! RED ALERT! INTRUDER SPOTTED!

Red alarms blared throughout the facility, accompanied by flashing red lights and wailing sirens. Teams of soldiers and snipers began running to the walls. The whole facility was awash with activity as every entrance and building was fortified. Roads leading to the fort were barricaded with tanks and upturned vehicles, while barbed wire and obstacles were strewn throughout the perimeter.

As the soldiers hunkered down, one of them saw a figure approach through the snows. She wore a sleek stealth suit, with night vision goggles and heavy gear.

The soldier kept watching as the girl approached the fort, stopping just short of the soldier’s defenses.

“I want to enter your fort, open the door.” Raven said seriously.

One of the soldiers, a captain, shouted down to Raven from the walls.

“And if we don’t?”

Raven pulled out her sword.

“Then I’ll just open it myself.”

The soldier laughed “This fort is defended by 5,000 of my best snipers, campers, grenade spammers and hackers. You’ll have to take us all if you want to get in.”

At that instant, a flash whipped through the snow, followed by a quick scream. All the soldiers gasped as they saw the captain was vaporized into digital dust as a ninja star sliced clean through him.

Raven took her sword, dragging its blade on the ground as she approached the fort.

“One…….”

***

Back in the bowels of Control Freak’s lair meanwhile, the villain watched in amazement as the horror at the front gates continued.

“This is unacceptable! How can the Titans be winning!?”
“The enemy is quite skilled sir.” The droid assistant remarked.

“Never! I’m the master of video games, I created this world specifically so that I would be in control!” Control Freak pounded his chest violently. “If there is anything the Titans will be doing here, it is two things, Jack and Shi-“

“SIR!” The droid suddenly shouted.

“What?!” Control Freak replied back.

“This is a PG-13 Fanfic, we’re not allowed to use foul language that might potentially affect the young minds of innocent children. We video games get blamed enough as it is.”

“But I’m evil! Can’t I use it at least a little? All the cool movies and TV shows that kids have more access to everyday watch it!”

“Nope, sir…sorry.” The droid said sadly.

“Fine…..” Control Freak sighed. “Then PREPARE MY TRANSPORT, I shall go down there and take care of those Titans myself.”

“Roger. Roger.”

***

As more explosions rocked the outside of the compound, two more soldiers stood guard inside the fort.

“Man, it’s so freezing out there. I’m glad I don’t have to patrol outside.” The guard said to his buddy.

“Yup, I mean, look at that poor cardboard box over there!” He pointed to a soaked up box that said ‘bananas’ on its label. “It’s so cold its sneezing.”

“Poor thing, all cold and scared.” The other guard commented as they walked away.

At that moment, Beast Boy and his team emerged from the box. “Well, that was easy enough, we’re almost at the storage room.”

Before the Titans could even take another step however, a huge figure carrying a machine gun walked into the hallway.

“Hello, I’m your mandatory mini-boss fight.” The big muscled man gave a hellish grin. “So prepare to be destroyed.”

“Funny, I don’t remember there being one here.” Beast Boy remarked.

“You cannot defeat me!” The heavy soldier boss laughed. “I’ve been trained in fifteen different styles of combat, grew up on the battlefield, and I eat ARBYS for breakfast!”

“Dude, are we fighting, or going over your life’s story?” Beast Boy said impatiently.

The mini-boss gave a surprised look. “Well, I’m supposed to give you anecdotes as we fight, then at the end, when you beat me, I give you a tear jerking story about how tragic circumstances in my life forced me into being the person I am today.”

“Sorry, but we really got to move on.” Robin said.

“But….But….” The mini-boss whimpered.

“If you’re trained in fifteen different styles of combat, why are you using a gun to fight us?” Cyborg asked.

“I…..DON’T know!” The machine gunner broke into tears.

“No offense dude, but that kind of stuff is for, you know, real bosses?”

“But, I really am one! I mean, come on! I help make this game more interesting don’t I?” The man was near tears.

“Do not feel bad Mister. I shall console you.” Starfire said quietly, patting the crying boss on the back and listening to his woes.

“I mean…mini bosses are just as important as real bosses too!” The mini-boss cried as he talked to Starfire.

“Whatever, let’s move on, this is too weird, even for me.” Beast Boy said.

***

The Titans made their way to the central courtyard, where this heavy weapon was stored. And to their surprise, they saw Raven there as well.

“So….how did the front door thing go?” Cyborg asked.

“Good.” Was all that Raven said.

Suddenly, the entire ground started to shake, as a secret silo door opened up from underneath the titans. The five heroes stepped back and saw a huge robot emerge from the facility. It was armed to the teeth with neutron bombs, shoulder mounted laser cannons and Vulcan cannons on each arm.
But the biggest surprise was the pilot, who was visible through the cockpit at the head of this mech.

Control Freak.

“GREETINGS TITANS, Meet Metal Gear Chaioth Ha Qadesh (http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/2/20/MGCAH.jpg/800px-MGCAH.jpg (http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/2/20/MGCAH.jpg/800px-MGCAH.jpg))!

It has a missile launcher on its back, and can fire bullets from the Vulcan Cannons on each of its arms, it can fire nukes, neutron lasers and the kitchen sink!” Control freak grinned. “I have to admit, I had underestimated you Titans, but the END IS NOW!”

As Metal Gear Chaioth Ha Qadesh (try saying THAT very fast:S) roared to life, the Titans scattered, all of them ducking behind some wreckage as missiles, lasers and bombs exploded around them.

All of them, except Beast Boy, who stood confidently in front of Control Freak’s mech.

“What’s this? The Green one already giving up? Good, this will make this a whole lot easier.” Control Freak cackled insanely as he aimed his neutron cannon at Beast Boy.

“Say goodbye!” Control Freak pressed the trigger.

Nothing happened.

“What?!” Control Freak pressed the trigger again, and again, and again, but still nothing happened.

Then the Metal Gear exploded.

A huge ball of orange light engulfed the base, raining debris and robot parts underneath a nuclear mushroom cloud, and the Titans were left in bewilderment at what had just transpired.

“Ok Beast Boy, I’ll bite.” Cyborg said in astonishment. “How did you do it?”

“Shoved a banana (http://img59.exs.cx/img59/2685/images3gw.jpg) up it’s tail pipe when Control Freak was making his speech.” Beast Boy said proudly.

LEVEL 8

http://media.putfile.com/Mute-City98 (http://media.putfile.com/Mute-City98) (PLAY!)

It was high noon in the desert on the outskirts of Jump City, with the sun blazing fiercely in the clear blue sky. The desert itself was barren, void of all life save for a few tumbleweeds that were tossed around by the rolling dry winds. Other noticeable landmarks were the small clusters of rock and cacti that sprawled the arid ground.

Cutting through the middle of all this, was a thin black stretch of highway, which led out of the city, towards the distant mountains on the horizon. It was a peaceful scene, quiet and tranquil.

That was, until the motors started.

A monstrous roar echoed through the landscape as a cloud of dust zipped its way across the highway stretch. Through the smoke, a red hover car emerged, similar to the ones from the many racing games that Beast Boy and Cyborg had played.

“Time to lighten the mood.” Control Freak cackled, pressing a button on his dashboard. A mechanical arm took a CD from a nearby compartment, and soon, the villain’s stereo came to life with a series of hip tunes.

Before he could even relax however, another engine sound emerged behind him, and before Control Freak could even turn around to investigate the source. A hover bike had zipped alongside him. That wasn’t all, accompanying the red motorcycle was a blue and white car, with a very modern and futuristic look to it.

“Pull over!” Robin shouted harshly to Control Freak.

“You’ll have to catch me first stinking Titans!” Control Freak laughed.

The three cars swerved left and right as they went alongside the road. Cyborg, trying to run the villain off the road, quickly edged his car towards Control Freaks hyper racer. All this happened as the sound of tires skidding on the road cut through the air.

Eventually, the speeding cars entered into another section of the desert, where the road was flanked on both sides by tall rocky cliffs. Cyborg, taking advantage of the change in scenary, swerved left again to try and squeeze the villain between his car and the rocky face cliff that edged the road.

“Time to show these Titans what it means to really go fast! Prepare the ship for Ludicrous speed!” Control Freak smirked as he pressed a button, putting a space ship-like glass dome over his cockpit.

“Preparing for Ludicrous speed sir.” The Robotic droid, who suddenly appeared to man the controls next to Control Freak, repeated.

“Engage Ludicrous speed!” Control freak pointed forward!

“Roger Roger. Engaging Lucrous speed!” The droid replied.

“HEEHEE…so cool!!” Control freak giggled as his car raced forward, spouting a set of twin engines that completely blazed his car on.

“Oh no you don’t!” Cyborg said sternly. He pushed a button on his console and soon, the outside of the T-hyper car began transforming. The hood opened up to reveal a double set of rocket launchers, while the headlights quickly folded out and turned into lasers.

“Boo yah!” Cyborg shouted, and on cue, all the weapons on the T-hyper car came to life.

The roadside quickly became peppered with laser fire and explosions, each of them missing Control Freak, who swerved left and right to avoid the blasts while turning a corner.

“HAHA give it up ya stinking Titans! In here! I’m the master!” Control Freak pointed his remote at the road behind him, instantly spawning five other hover cars, armed with weapons. The hover cars did a 180 degree turn, and aimed all their weapons at Robin’s hover bike and Cyborg’s car.

Cyborg growled, gripping the wheel in his hand while a shocked Starfire and Raven sat in the back seat.

“I may lose to Robin in this game, but NOT TO YOU!” Cyborg flipped a switch, which revealed a big red button.

“BOOST TIME!” Cyborg pressed the button.

The rockets on the T-Hyper car came to life, and soon, the Titans completely blasted their way through Control Freak’s cronies. Flaming wreckage and car parts flew all over the track as Cyborg literally just plowed through them.

It was so fast, that he was leaving fire tracks in the concrete road. Before anything could happen, the Cyborg’s car plowed into a rock formation, forming a neat little hole through it before speeding off into the distance, passing Control Freak, and the Finish line.

“AW YEAH! Who’s da man!” Cyborg shouted triumphantly. “Cy’s da man!”

“Um, Cyborg.” Robin said to the Titan over the communicator.

“What?”

“Control Freak escaped.”

“Oh…Right, that.” Cyborg said innocently. “My mistake.”

LEVEL 9

The next level, was not what the Titans had expected.

Instead of zombies, robots, commandos, or space pirates. There was…..

A cute little kitty cat character playing mini golf.

“This….is level 9?” Raven asked sarcastically.

“So, we have to play that….cat in mini golf?”

“OOOOOO!” Starfire jumped up high in excitement. “I know this sport!”

Joyfully, she ran up to the sunny Kitty Cat character, and took a golf putt. Without even thinking, she swung it wildly, and soon the golf ball flew wildly into the air.

The Golf ball, plus the mound of earth which the Kitty was standing on, since Starfire accidentally dug her putter into the ground. Soon, ball, earth mound and kitty, were flying into the air, disappearing over the horizon.

Moments later, a doorway appeared in front of them, with the words “FINAL LEVEL” written on the entrance.

“Well, that was easy enough.” Raven said.

“So, let’s go to the final level.” Robin replied, taking a step forward to open the door.

“Wait guys!” Beast Boy pulled the two back, and pointed at a clearing, this one, resembling the one they had seen in the first level.

“Look! There’s a place with even more monsters there!” Beast Boy used the word ‘monsters’ loosely, as they were still little bunny rabbits and cute animals.

“Beast Boy, shouldn’t we just go on to the next level? We’ve been through this before.”

“Trust me guys, I know what I’m doing.” Beast Boy smirked.

LEVEL 10

The Five titans walked through the doorway now, and the Tenth level was the most exotic one yet. Instead of any setting, it resembled the inside of a computer. With glowing computer grids outlining everything, every step, every structure in this world seemed to be just like it.

Standing in the center of this universe, was Control Freak.

“Hello Titans, welcome to the final level, I was wondering what took you so long. And WOW, Do you know how boring it is to sit in a room all game waiting for you heroes to come? Being a last boss stinks.”

“We’re taking you in Control Freak.” Robin said. “This game’s over.”

“HAH, you still have to beat my ultimate level! And believe me Titans, this will be your LAST level.” Control Freak said triumphantly.

“In any case, You are probably wondering what the last boss is…..So I’ll show you.” He took out his remote, the reality warp-a-tron 5000.

“Last time it was five against one, and I only used three TV characters, so this time, I won’t make that mistake.”

The Five Titans watched in amazement as Control Freak aimed his remote at the ground, suddenly zapping in dozens and dozens of shadowy figures. Characters from every video game imaginable, of every shape and size.

“Prepare for your doom titans, for WE. ARE. LEGION (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/TreizeV/VgvillainsGameovercopy.jpg).” Control Freak laughed insanely.

“Wow….so cool.” Beast Boy said in awe.

Raven slapped Beast Boy’s head.

“Oh Right…..this is bad dudes..…..REAL BAD.”

Stay tuned for the conclusion of GAME OVER

Matt A

05-03-2006, 06:23 PM

I'll give you all a quick tip: read this whilst drunk. It works well.:anime:

Okay, so whilst that wasn't as funny as the previous installment, it was still pretty damn hillarious. The Titans' utter disrespect for the rules of game-playing gets funnier by the line, producing some phenomenal comedy moments: pride of place must go to Beast Boy's banana, Starfire "playing" golf and Raven once again going psycho. Some great moments.:anime:

Oh yes, and let's not forget this bit:

“If there is anything the Titans will be doing here, it is two things, Jack and Shi-“

“SIR!” The droid suddenly shouted.

“What?!” Control Freak replied back.

“This is a PG-13 Fanfic, we’re not allowed to use foul language that might potentially affect the young minds of innocent children. We video games get blamed enough as it is.”

Don't you just love post-modernist humour?:anime:

So, now to see how the Titans will survive the epic boss battle to end all epic boss batles. I get the feeling it won't be as straighforward (albeit tough) as it appears...;)

-Matt A-

Pun-3x

05-04-2006, 12:29 AM

Okay now.

Your new assignment, should you choose to accept it, is to draw that shot of Raven walking up to the fortress dragging her sword behind her. The scene itself rocked so hard, I HAVE to see that visual. :D

You can title it, "One..." ;)

Anyway, up to you, really. And I was kinda hoping with the link on the word banana, you'd actually have a picture of a banana stuck up a tail pipe. :p Still funny as hell. Better than FOXDIE.

But, seriously...kitties and golf? Actually, the change of pace was rather amusing. I guess Starfire needed SOMETHING to relate to--everyone else had a shot. Still, glad you breezed through that one. ;)

And I love the computeresque last level. Can't wait to see how it pans out.

Now stop taking so long between posts! (I should talk)
;)

Arrakhat

05-04-2006, 03:20 PM

:lol: Hello Kitty. Goodbye Kitty.:evil: Seriously, I love the video game references and the constant cheating.

“Look! There’s a place with even more monsters there!” Beast Boy used the word ‘monsters’ loosely, as they were still little bunny rabbits and cute animals.

“Beast Boy, shouldn’t we just go on to the next level? We’ve been through this before.”

“Trust me guys, I know what I’m doing.” Beast Boy smirked.
This will be important, methinks.

Pun-3x

05-04-2006, 11:24 PM

Agreed. He needs to replace his banana. :p

...that came out wrong...

DeathscytheVII

05-12-2006, 03:07 AM

ds w
I'll give you all a quick tip: read this whilst drunk. It works well.:anime:

Okay, so whilst that wasn't as funny as the previous installment, it was still pretty damn hillarious. The Titans' utter disrespect for the rules of game-playing gets funnier by the line, producing some phenomenal comedy moments: pride of place must go to Beast Boy's banana, Starfire "playing" golf and Raven once again going psycho. Some great moments.:anime:

Oh yes, and let's not forget this bit:

Don't you just love post-modernist humour?:anime:

So, now to see how the Titans will survive the epic boss battle to end all epic boss batles. I get the feeling it won't be as straighforward (albeit tough) as it appears...;)

-Matt A-

Thanks matt! Yeah, i didn't really have the time to do another pixel comic or more levels with the last update, but i'm glad you still found it somewhat funny :D lol. And yes, post modernist humor rocks.

Okay now.

Your new assignment, should you choose to accept it, is to draw that shot of Raven walking up to the fortress dragging her sword behind her. The scene itself rocked so hard, I HAVE to see that visual. :D

You can title it, "One..." ;)

Anyway, up to you, really. And I was kinda hoping with the link on the word banana, you'd actually have a picture of a banana stuck up a tail pipe. :p Still funny as hell. Better than FOXDIE.

But, seriously...kitties and golf? Actually, the change of pace was rather amusing. I guess Starfire needed SOMETHING to relate to--everyone else had a shot. Still, glad you breezed through that one. ;)

And I love the computeresque last level. Can't wait to see how it pans out.

Now stop taking so long between posts! (I should talk)

HAHA, i'll see Pun, i'm actually considering drawing Ninja Raven again, in another context. I'll see if im good enough to make poses from scratch though (w/o reference) Glad you liked the banana :p

The last level was actually my attempt at a TRON level, but seeing as i couldn't find a good background :(....sigh aw well.

:lol: Hello Kitty. Goodbye Kitty.:evil: Seriously, I love the video game references and the constant cheating.

Thanks dude :D glad you liked the kitty hahahaha. And cheating Roxorz!

Here's the last chapter. I'm trying an experiment. At first, i was gonna link each name to a character, but since ill be using characters from the last screenshot, lets see if you can recognize their names......

without further ado.

THE FINAL LEVEL

The five titans, now back to their RPG costumes from level one, watched Control Freak’s growing army uneasily. As Starfire took out her bow, and Cyborg unsheathed his sword, Robin did a quick head count of the adversaries facing them, it didn’t take long for him to lose track of the many faces in the crowd, mechs, zombies with rocket launchers, ninjas, dragons, sorcerers and many more.

Control Freak gave another smug laugh.

“You know Titans, you were right last time. Bad Guys always lose, in television, in comic books, and in cartoons, but here it is different.” The villain said confidently.

“In video games, bad guys can win. It’s an equal playing field.” Control Freak said sinisterly, rubbing his hands together in anticipation, as if no force on Earth could stop his impending victory.

Then, the villain pointed straight at the Titans, like a general directing his troops on the battlefield.

“Destroy them!” He cackled evilly.

By that time, Robin was already charging. “TITANS! Go!”

Both sides collided in an orgy of explosions, sword swipes and gunfire.

Cyborg was the first to attack, matching swords with a dual sword wielding black knight. Sparks flew as the blades connected, forcing both opponents to take steps back as they gauged their own speeds. Another enemy, this one a Covenant Elite Alien (From HALO the game), wearing Cybernetic armor and wielding the energy sword, didn’t give Cyborg a chance to rest and dove straight at him with a roar. The Titan instinctively jumped in the air, letting the alien slice right through the black knight, and vaporizing him into dust.

The Alien, growling even more, jumped for Cyborg.

Robin meanwhile, was face to face with Sephiroth, the video game villain with long flowy hair, and a sword that was taller than him. The boy wonder himself, was armed only with the two daggers he had as a thief.

Sephiroth was the first to move, conjuring a golden orb of energy into his palm and blasting it towards Robin. Robin ran forward, doing a quick flip to dodge the blast while narrowly avoiding the villain’s giant blade as it swung at him.

Starfire meanwhile, was locked in her own duel with Dark Samus and Mother Brain, the freaky alien android that had a gigantic brain for a head. Dodging the laser blasts, the Tamaranian took half a dozen arrows from her quiver, and quickly fired them at her assailants. Dark Samus transformed herself into a ball to avoid the attack, but Mother Brain took all of Starfire’s arrows, and within seconds, was vaporized into digital dust.

“WHAT?! You can’t do that!” Control Freak said in exasperation as he saw the Titans effortlessly take on the initial wave of villains. He took his remote controller out now, and started urging more villains into the fight.

Beast Boy meanwhile, was up against Kurt Zisa, a gigantic Shivan Mech with six mechanical arms, two of them wielding large scythe-like blades. The boss towered over Beast Boy, standing at least three stories tall.

“Thundaga!” Beast Boy pointed his mage’s staff at the monster, firing a huge bolt of lightning at the mech. The blast however, bounced right off the mech’s armor.

“HAH!” Control Freak laughed at Beast Boy’s attempt. “Good luck with that! Kurt Ziza’s special ability allows him to cancel magic. If you had found the secret boss level in Kingdom Hearts, you would have known that! Prepare to be sliced!”

Beast Boy shrieked in terror as he jumped to avoid the twirling mech blades. But suddenly, the gigantic boss stopped dead in its tracks. A brilliant flash of steel cut through the air, revealing Raven in her Ninja form kneeling right in front of the monster.

Within seconds, Kurt Zisa’s arms fell off, and the rest of his body followed suit, crumbling into pieces of dust and scrap.

“Twenty two.” Ninja Raven counted off in her head.

“Rae! Look out behind you!” Beast Boy shouted, pointing behind Raven, where Bowser (From Super Mario) and A Hydralisk (from Starcraft) rushed her. The Hydralisk drooled insanely as it raised its sharp claws out to strike, while Bowser spun inside his spiked shell, looking to impale Raven on it.

“I know kung fu…..” Raven said slyly, pulling out another sword and throwing one of them at the Hydralisk, impaling its body. Then she took her free sword, and using it as a baseball bat, sliced at Bowser’s shell, sending him flying into the next dimension.

“And you don’t.” Raven finished off with a grin.

Meanwhile Control Freak, after witnessing Robin take down Sephiroth with a judo throw, was not happy.

“This isn’t supposed to be happening!” The villain screamed. “Stop cheating!”

“STARS……..” Nemesis, the zombie boss from Resident Evil, groaned lowly as he made his way towards Cyborg, Rocket Launcher in his hand. He was a tall dapper fellow in a trench coat, with a face of twisted flesh and organs that only a mother could love.

“Huh?” Cyborg, just fresh from finishing off the Covenant Elite with a sword stab, turned around to see his latest assailant, who was aiming a rocket launcher straight at his face.

“Uh oh.” The Titan had no time to dodge.

“STARS……” Nemesis growled again, and fired the rocket, only to have it explode in mid air as another missile intercepted it.

“Huh?” Cyborg said in puzzlement, wondering where that second missile came from.

Through the smoke, both combatants turned to see Starfire, carrying her ususal RPG-7 Mark II, still smoking in her hands.

“Time to open the can of Butt Whoop!” The Tamaranian said gleefully, rushing straight at the zombie boss, decking him out with one quick punch. Nemesis staggered back, and Starfire jumped up to impossible heights, landing right on his head and jumping again, all the while doing a flip. Taking an arrow from her quiver, she strung it up and fired an arrow straight into Nemesis’ skull, completely vaporizing him into nothing.

Cutman (from the megaman games) and Bomberman were up next. One already charging Robin with scissors in his hands and head (GASP), and bomberman kicking his lethal projectiles at the Boy Wonder.

Robin rushed forward, and with a spin kick, knocked the bomb back to Bomberman, which blew him into next week, before cutting the scissors off of Cutman’s head with his dagger. Both video game villains were down in seconds.

“One hundred and twenty one…..One hundred and twenty two….” Raven rolled the numbers from her head as she quickly dispatched Dr. Wily (From Megaman) and A dancing guy in a white robotic suit.

M. Bison, the ultimate evil of Street Fighter, gave a cocky laugh, and launched himself straight at Raven, intent on completely pulverizing her with a flip kick.

M. Bison landed seconds later, his leg stuck on Raven’s sword. A look of embarrassment went over his face right before he exploded into dust.

“One Hundred and Twenty three”

Ultimecia, the most powerful sorceress of FFVIII attacked next, casting a magical blast that was so large, even Raven didn’t have time to dodge it.

“STOP!” Beast Boy waved his wand out, and right on cue, the entire blast wave froze in its tracks. The sorceress barely had time to respond as she was sent to another dimension by Beast Boy’s Fire ball. More explosions filled the entire level as the titans systematically cut through Control Freak’s massive army.

“Man…if this was a game, I’d say we were playing it on Easy mode.” Cyborg said smugly.

Three ghosts, each one bathed in a different color, suddenly approached Cyborg.

“BOO YAH!” The mechanical hero cheered as he turned and swiped his sword straight at the ghosts, but his attack did nothing to stop them. They were invincible.

“Cyborg! Catch!” Beast Boy threw an object at Cyborg, who caught it in confusion.

“A Banana? Beast Boy this ain’t time for fooling around!” Cyborg replied back.

Beast Boy, who was busy dodging laser blasts from a liquid villain called Chaos, quickly told Cyborg. “Just eat it dude! Trust me!”

“Ok,” Cyborg shrugged. “Whatever.” Cyborg gulped down the fruit, and seconds later, the ghosts, for no reason whatsoever, turned blue with fear.

“AW YEAH! Let’s get it on!” Cyborg the barbarian shouted as he sliced clean through the now-vulnerable ghosts.

Raven meanwhile, after slicing Ganondorf in two, quickly met a new opponent, A ghost like figure with a skull head and a foreboding scythe. It was Death himself.

That did not deter Raven, who skillfully impaled the monstrosity with her samurai sword. Death gave an anguished inhuman scream as he toppled to the ground.

“Two Hundred.” Raven counted off as she kicked Psycrow in the face, knocking the Earthworm Jim villain into next week.

“Count again!” Control Freak laughed, and Raven turned to see Death slowly rise up, the gaping wound left in him miraculously healing as the video game villain continued its advance towards Raven.

“You can’t kill something without a soul!” Control Freak said triumphantly. “Let’s see you stop that!”

“Fair enough.” Raven said smugly, before she took her remaining sword and slammed it straight into Death’s chest. She did it with so much force that she pushed Death back against a wall, impaling it against the surface. With a twist of the blade, Death let out another inhuman scream, and died.

Then respawned, but Raven gave the sword another twist, and so he died again. After a few moments, Death revived, then screamed, and died again.

Ninja Raven took a step back to admire her creative handiwork.

“That’s for messing up my count.” Raven said dryly.

“No fair! No Fair!” Control Freak complained as the five titans continued cutting through the group of video game characters to reach him.

“Get em Rex!” the villain cackled, and suddenly, the five titans stopped in their tracks as missiles landed right before their path, blasting a huge wall of rubble and destruction before them.

Through the smoke, was Metal Gear Rex, A giant biped mech with mounted railguns, anti-tank missiles, and machine guns.

“Let’s get back to the basics.” Control Freak laughed.

Before Rex could do anything however, it, like the rest of the video game villains, was quickly dispatched as a missile came out of nowhere, completely trashing the robot as it exploded into a huge mushroom cloud.

Starfire, still holding her RPG-7 Mk. II, gave a proud and triumphant smile.

“Wow Star, you took out that thing in one shot, must be worth a lot of points.” Cyborg commented.

“Um…What are points?” Starfire asked inquisitively.

Robin walked up to the two titans now, and they all focused on the last remaining bad guy. Control Freak.

The villain looked furious, and control freak angrily took out his controller from his vest.

“You got lucky this time Titans, but don’t think you can win in MY world!” Control freak laughed.

Robin quickly pounced on Control Freak, but to his surprise, the villain simply zapped him away as if they were nothing. A huge wall of kinetic force pushed Robin back against the wall.

“AHHH!” Robin shouted as he was slammed against the wall.

Cyborg and Starfire had less luck, as Control Freak used his stolen kung fu moves from the last episode to attack. Cyborg was met with a swift upper cut through the chin, while Starfire’s rockets and arrows were cancelled out by a huge energy beam that simply destroyed all those projectiles in mid air, knocking back the Tamaranian.

Now, it was just Beast Boy and Control Freak.

“AH, if it isn’t my only worthy adversary in this world.” Control Freak gave a mocking laugh. “Prepare to meet your doom.”

“Yo dude!” Beast Boy stepped forward now, pointing straight at the villain. “You gotta stop this, you’re dealing with forces you can’t possibly ….um…deal with! COPYRIGHT LAWS!”

“HAH!” Control Freak gave a sinister laugh. “Of course I know that idiot! The best thing about being a villain is that you can break all the copyright laws you want. So Cartoon Network can just choke on it, I’m bringing in the best of the best!”

“You could get us cancelled!” Beast Boy shouted indignantly.

“I KNOW, and that was my plan all along! Cause you see, either way I will finally defeat the Titans!! WAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH!” Control Freak laughed insanely.

“I’ve seen evil things before…but this is just sick.” Beast Boy said in outrage.

“And what are you going to do about it?” Control Freak sneered. “All you got is that stupid staff, but I’ll be fair. Let’s fight like real gamers. No weapons, no special items, no one remote to control them all, just you and me, mono a mono and our gamer skills!” Control Freak threw away his remote, and to Beast Boy’s surprised, assumed a karate pose.

Beast Boy, seeing Control Freak challenge his video game skills, couldn’t refuse. He threw away his staff.

“Let’s dance.”

The two opponents faced off eye to eye now, in the middle of the blazing carnage of destruction and death that was level 10. For the two combatants, it seemed as though time had stopped. An ominous wind blew through the burning remains of video game bosses, weapons and items, and throughout the computer world, there was at last…silence.

***

“Did I mention, I am skilled at…...lying!?” Control Freak laughed as he pulled out a blaster gun from his pocket, and he quickly aimed it at Beast Boy, blasting him with a powerful electric surge. Beast Boy stepped back in pain.

“You good guys always fall for this trick.” Control Freak laughed.

“No……” The Green Titan grunted as he staggered back. He felt the energy zapped right out of him as the green electricity wrapped around his body. His legs gave way, and soon, Beast Boy found himself helpless on the ground.

“You fool! You should know better than to challenge me! Control Freak! The undisputed master of this universe and every video game in existence! Soon, the rest of the planet will join you in defeat as I take my army into the real world!”

He knelt before Beast Boy, as if to savour this moment. “Let this be a final lesson to you my green chum, why bad guys win at video games. Evil always wins, because evil cheats!”

Suddenly, a section of the wall in the level caved in, and the body of a droid exploded out, hitting the other side of the level with a satisfying crash as it uttered its last ‘roger..roger…’.

Through the smoke, with two gleaming swords, was Ninja Raven.

“Wanna bet?” Raven said icily, then with inhuman precision, she tossed a sword into the air, and spin kicked it straight at Control Freak.

Control Freak gave a smug laugh. “You dare oppose me! Wielder of…THE ONE REMOTE TO CONTROL THEM ALL?!” The villain pulled out his ultimate weapon, the reality warp-a-tron 5000, which as crafted by ancient Japanese programmers, forged with the radiation of CTR monitors and hundreds gallons of Jolt cola, imbuing its user with powers beyond human comprehension.

“Hehe…always carry a spare.” Control Freak laughed.

With a powerful blast, the sword dissolved in midair, and soon, Control Freak charged at Ninja Raven, who, exhausted after the long battle, fell helplessly to the villain’s punch.

“No….we lost.” Beast Boy grunted as he saw the rest of his unconscious team mates on the ground.

“WAHAHAHAHA! That’s right” Control Freak, sensing his victory, joyfully picked up the battered Ninja Raven by the neck.

“Cool costume, I’ll be sure to write a fanfic on it after I crush your pathetic team. FINALLY! I have bested the teen titans! Even you! Raven! The coolest and most powerful Titan of them all should know that! I thought you had more sense than to participate in this stupid battle! You should have known that I am invincible here! What were you possibly trying to achieve?”

Ninja Raven gave a smug grin as she gestured towards Beast Boy. “That.”

Control Freak turned around now, and saw a limping Beast Boy reaching for the controller that he had thrown away in his previous duel with Beast Boy.

“What are you doing!? That’s my spare and I just finished my payments! Get away from it!”

Beast Boy smirked, using his bruised up hands to fumble around the controller as if trying to find something. Within seconds, he found the button, and pressed it, and the world dissolved into dark……

LOADINGAUTOSAVE……………………………………………………..
Level 10

“Did I mention, I am skilled at…...lying!?” Control Freak laughed as he pulled out a blaster gun from his pocket, and he quickly aimed it at Beast Boy, blasting him with a powerful electric surge. Beast Boy stepped back in pain.

“You good guys always fall for this trick.” Control Freak laughed.

“No……” The Green Titan grunted as he staggered back. He felt the energy zapped right out of him as the green electricity wrapped around his body. His legs gave way, and soon, Beast Boy found himself helpless on the ground.

“You fool! You should know better than to challenge me! Control Freak! The undisputed master of this universe and every video game in existence! Soon, the rest of the planet will join you in defeat as I take my army into the real world!”

He knelt before Beast Boy, as if to savour this moment. “Let this be a final lesson to you my green chum, why bad guys win at video games. Evil always wins, because evil cheats!”

Suddenly, a section of the wall in the level caved in, and the body of a droid exploded out, hitting the other side of the level with a satisfying crash as it uttered its last ‘roger..roger…’.

Through the smoke, with two gleaming swords, was Ninja Raven.

“Wanna bet?” Raven said icily, then with inhuman precision, she tossed a sword into the air, and spin kicked it straight at Control Freak.

Control Freak gave a smug laugh. “You dare oppose me! Wielder of…THE ONE REMOTE TO CONTROL THEM ALL?!” The villain pulled out his ultimate weapon, crafted by ancient Japanese programmers, forged with the radiation of CTR monitors and hundreds of gallons of…….Control Freak widened his eyes as he looked at the silver disc in his hand. He read the label carefully.

http://img94.exs.cx/img94/8425/b00005q8ug01lzzzzzzz4cv.jpg

“The best of david hassle-“

Before he could do anything, Raven’s katana had took Control Freak right in the shirt, and the villain was sent flying back screaming until he was finally pinned against the wall, dangling at least ten feet above the ground. Raven then finished Control Freak off with a swift down kick, which knocked Control Freak back down to Earth.

Beast Boy, now having the remote in his hand, quickly zapped the rest of his team back to normal, and soon, the Titans found themselves standing over a crying Control Freak who kept hitting the ground in frustration.

“BUT HOW!? I was winning!!!!!” Control Freak complained like a five year old.

“Switched it after you shot me.” Beast Boy grinned.

“But still, my video game bosses! I had an army!” Control Freak stammered.

“Video game rule, bad guys only attack you one at a time, its polite.” Beast Boy replied.

“But…BUT! How did you beat my team?! I gathered the awesomest bad guys in video game history!!” Control Freak screamed

“Dude, everyone knows that in RPGs you level up to level 99 before you go to the final stage, so everything’s a breeze after that.” Beast Boy smirked, remembering how he had told the Titans to train in the bunny field just before level 10.

“And let this be a final lesson to you Control Freak. In video games, Evil may cheat, but good saves.” The Green Titan let out a smug smile.

“SO…we are victorious?” Starfire asked again.

“We’re taking you in Control Freak.” Robin said seriously, walking towards the sobbing villain.

“What’s wrong, got nothing to say?” Cyborg said slyly.

“Yes….” Control Freak said desperately as he went on his knees and begged at Beast Boy. “TEACH ME ALL YOUR SKILLS! PLEASE! I’M BEGGING YOU!!! I WANT TO LEARN! WAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH”

The villain continued crying, completely shamed at having been beaten at his own game.

“Congradulations…..You’ve officially outgeeked Control Freak.” Raven said dryly as she watch the villain prostrate himself at Beast Boy’s feet.

Beast Boy shuddered.

“UGH….. Why do I suddenly feel so dirty.” The green titan shivered.

“Well…I guess that’s all folks!” Cyborg smirked as he took the sobbing villain and with the rest of his team, walked to the end of Level 10….

..
.
.
.
“So Raven, any chance for a rematch?” Beast Boy grinned.

“Don’t push your luck.” Raven replied back flatly.

GAME OVER (The END :D)

Matt A

05-12-2006, 07:22 AM

Pun-3x

05-12-2006, 12:24 PM

Gotta praise the banana. ;)

Awesome. Just, awesome. The only issue I would have with this story--and this is with the afterknowledge that they were all at level 99--is that Sephiroth was so easy. I say this because:

1) he's cool and kicks so much ass

2) he was quite painful in FF7

3) He is VERY PAINFUL in KH2. PAAAAAAAAIIIN-FUL! That guy won't take a seat for anyone! Even at level 80, Sorah is getting hammered by the guy.

But I know, the arguement can be made for just about all the Boss villains that showed up in the end, depending on what you're partial to. ;) So it was still good fun.

painful.

I love the reload bit. If you were going to have the autosave, load screens and such, might as well take advantage of the world and restart.

Quite a fun ride. I'm rather sad to see this story end. There was so much more to do. :p

DeathscytheVII

05-12-2006, 02:41 PM

Class. Just class.:anime:

Sure, I didn't know most of the references, but the sheer level of gaming geekery still brought a smile to my face (and if I wasn't reading this in a public library, a full-on giggle fit too). I dig the Pacman skit in particular: that was a good use of referencing.:anime:

I must admit, I hadn't thought of the autosaving idea. It should've been obvious, considering how important it is to the gaming world, but that little twist genuinely surprised me. And it meant Beast Boy got to use his own gaming geekery to bring down Control Freak, which was kinda necessary. Naturally, it didn't stop Raven from once again stealing the entire show: I'd quote you the spine-chillingly hillarious lines I liked, but that would take far too long (though I must give mention to her body-counting). As Beast Boy said, there's a lass who should never play video games.:evil:

Oh yes, and we must give maxium respect to the Hoff-meister.;)

-Matt A-

Glad you liked the not-so-subtle references lol. And yes, pac man rocks! The autosaving bit makes sense dont it! I mean, how many times have we saved before an impossible boss to try and try again :D being a last boss sucks. Also, i was kinda disappointed at the lack of interaction between BB and Control Freak in the TV ep, so made up for it here hehe...its nice to see two geek heroes and villains fight.

Yes Raven.....lol. Maybe ill do a drawing when i have time :D.

Gotta praise the banana. ;)

Awesome. Just, awesome. The only issue I would have with this story--and this is with the afterknowledge that they were all at level 99--is that Sephiroth was so easy. I say this because:

1) he's cool and kicks so much ass

2) he was quite painful in FF7

3) He is VERY PAINFUL in KH2. PAAAAAAAAIIIN-FUL!That guy won't take a seat for anyone! Even at level 80, Sorah is getting hammered by the guy.

But I know, the arguement can be made for just about all the Boss villains that showed up in the end, depending on what you're partial to. ;) So it was still good fun.

painful.

I love the reload bit. If you were going to have the autosave, load screens and such, might as well take advantage of the world and restart.

Quite a fun ride. I'm rather sad to see this story end. There was so much more to do. :p

Yes, the banana owns! As for your points.

1.) Agreed, but he was used in video game virtual reality format, and in the episode, the titans were 'real', so his badassness and awesomeness looks good on paper, but less substance.

2.) I actually foudn him quite easy, especially with Knights of the Round Table and he's even easier with omnislash (i beat him at level 70 :D)

3.)I've heard he is, i only fought him once at level 60, though i've heard it is possible to beat him there. He's easier in Final Mix though, since you have a move that makes you temporarily invincible whenever you heal. I saw a guy beat him in under five minutes. Lvl 99 im assuming by his long ass life bar :p

And alas, yes the story has ended :( there were a lot of other levels and stuff i had in mind, but i really didn't have enough time to do it, nor could i think up gags for all of them, but all good things come to an end.

Speaking of the end, the season finale is coming up! Can you guys believe its been almost a year? Thanks for being so patient with this fic! :D

STAY TUNED FOR THE SEASON FINALE

Episode 11: Integration (pt. 1)
An old enemy of Cyborg's returns for some payback.

Arrakhat

05-12-2006, 05:46 PM

“Dude, everyone knows that in RPGs you level up to level 99 before you go to the final stage, so everything’s a breeze after that.” Beast Boy smirked, remembering how he had told the Titans to train in the bunny field just before level 10.
I called that one. Happens in every game known to gamer. So, now that we've finished this free for all viseo game reference, we'll get a more serious chapter coming up next.

One thing though: Villains don't always fight one at a time (I'm talking bosses). Ever played Fox Starcraft 64? You had to fight 4 enemy ships at the same time. It was an absolute pain to beat, and took me way too long.

Oh yeah, and great Pacman reference.:p

Pun-3x

05-13-2006, 12:27 AM

2.) I actually foudn him quite easy, especially with Knights of the Round Table and he's even easier with omnislash (i beat him at level 70 :D)
You know, I forgot I played that game a second time through with KotR and Omnislash. (and there was a lot of Golden Nugget playing to get that too) You're right, it was much easier that way.

3.)I've heard he is, i only fought him once at level 60, though i've heard it is possible to beat him there. He's easier in Final Mix though, since you have a move that makes you temporarily invincible whenever you heal. I saw a guy beat him in under five minutes. Lvl 99 im assuming by his long ass life bar :p

Outside of Final Mix, there is a trick to it I read on the internet. Has something to do with using Final form and your Trinity limit. There's a little more to it (plus get your level up there) but it's about alternating between the two. One big point made was Final Form's GLIDE ability getting you out of the way of Sephiroth's slashes. Haven't tried it yet, but I plan to. :)

Still, I definitely APPROVE. :D Keep up the good writing.

SilverKnight

05-13-2006, 11:27 AM

You know what would have made that hypothetical final battle with all the video game baddies perfect?

Someone shouting, "ZERG RUSH!" :D

Very cute story; I liked it. Scant in details, but the feel of it is exactly like that of the show. Nice.

Death58

05-14-2006, 01:12 PM

Woa. . .I am really having a hard time keeping up with the chapter releases. Many apologies Deathscythe:sweat:. Anyways, this was great. This was so filled with video game references that I hardly know where to start(Covenant Elite represent. . .I'm a HALO addict, by the way). Also, I think I'm required to quote this part,
A ghost like figure with a skull head and a foreboding scythe. It was Death himself.Come on, you just knew I was going to quote that. Unfortunately, Death got pwned(don't you just love video gamer slang)by Raven, no less. Sad to see him get so entirely killed. . .Oh well, he had a good run. . .kinda.
“Time to show these Titans what it means to really go fast! Prepare the ship for Ludicrous speed!” Control Freak smirked as he pressed a button, putting a space ship-like glass dome over his cockpit.By the by, nice throw back to Spaceballs I believe. . .I almost forgot to mention that. . .Anyways, it was great to see Beast Boy kick some major butt, or at least be rewarded for his video game knowlege, so much so that Control Freak wanted to be his apprentice of sorts; that definitely says something about how geeky BB is. Plus, that 'LOADING AUTO SAVE' thing was quite the nice touch. Auto saves are my friend(because I forget to save a lot). Great update, seriously, you made my day with this.
Speaking of the end, the season finale is coming up! Can you guys believe its been almost a year? Thanks for being so patient with this fic! :D

STAY TUNED FOR THE SEASON FINALEWhat?:crying: We're that near already? Well, the next episode sounds good and definitely dramatic(or at the very least dark). As usual, I shall await it and reply on time next update.:sweat:

DeathscytheVII

05-17-2006, 02:29 PM

I called that one. Happens in every game known to gamer. So, now that we've finished this free for all viseo game reference, we'll get a more serious chapter coming up next.

One thing though: Villains don't always fight one at a time (I'm talking bosses). Ever played Fox Starcraft 64? You had to fight 4 enemy ships at the same time. It was an absolute pain to beat, and took me way too long.

Oh yeah, and great Pacman reference.:p

Haha yep, good call on that one :D. And i believe the fight you are referring to is Starfox 64, when you fight against the Starwolf team on the last level. True, they all attack you at once, but only one attack actually damages you ;) then you become intangible :D so technically, only one attack can hurt you at a time.

PUN-3X Ah well, i don't own KH myself, i just beat it on my friend's PS2 XD didnt have time to try everything out.

Thanks though! :D next chap will come sooon'

You know what would have made that hypothetical final battle with all the video game baddies perfect?

Someone shouting, "ZERG RUSH!" :D

Very cute story; I liked it. Scant in details, but the feel of it is exactly like that of the show. Nice.

Aw, i knew something was missing :D or...mass zealots lol. But thanks Silverknight!

Yes..i know the details were scant here, but i guess i was concerned about cramming in as many video game references as possible than I was on details :D

Woa. . .I am really having a hard time keeping up with the chapter releases. Many apologies Deathscythe:sweat:. Anyways, this was great. This was so filled with video game references that I hardly know where to start(Covenant Elite represent. . .I'm a HALO addict, by the way). Also, I think I'm required to quote this part,

Come on, you just knew I was going to quote that. Unfortunately, Death got pwned(don't you just love video gamer slang)by Raven, no less. Sad to see him get so entirely killed. . .Oh well, he had a good run. . .kinda.

NP death, take your time! ANd yes...HALO! w00t! :D

Ah, i didn't really notice the Death thing until now, at least Death required some thinking to take down ;) not straight up slashing.

By the by, nice throw back to Spaceballs I believe. . .I almost forgot to mention that. . .Anyways, it was great to see Beast Boy kick some major butt, or at least be rewarded for his video game knowlege, so much so that Control Freak wanted to be his apprentice of sorts; that definitely says something about how geeky BB is. Plus, that 'LOADING AUTO SAVE' thing was quite the nice touch. Auto saves are my friend(because I forget to save a lot). Great update, seriously, you made my day with this.

Spaceballs was awesome. And yeah, one of my few dissapointments of Episode 257 was that Control Freak didn't go all crazy that he was outgeeked by Beast Boy...decided to make up for it here :D.

Autosaves, who doesn't use em? :D

Thanks Death! And yes, we are nearing the end :yawn: But ill try my best to make it a bang!

Arrakhat

05-17-2006, 06:51 PM

Haha yep, good call on that one :D. And i believe the fight you are referring to is Starfox 64, when you fight against the Starwolf team on the last level. True, they all attack you at once, but only one attack actually damages you ;) then you become intangible :D so technically, only one attack can hurt you at a time.
Fair point that. Well there was the old Ninja Turtles game called Turtles in Time for NES where you had to fight Tokka/Rahzar and Bebop/Rocksteady. On the other hand, they could injure each other. I guess I've been taking boss battles for granted all this time. :p

DeathscytheVII

05-23-2006, 06:29 PM

Episode 11: Integration

The abandoned stadium was a wreck, a shell of its former self. In its prime, it would have seen hundreds of Jump City’s finest citizens approach its entrance, to catch the latest baseball game or special event. But now, there was nothing. The bleachers were completely empty, the seats long rotted away to reveal a rusted steel frame. The walls were crumbled, filled with graffiti and cracks.

The once green field too, had been hit hard, and now all that remained was a big patch of dust and sand, which blew up massive clouds of dust as the dry winds echoed through the decrepit building.

In the center of all this, was a crater in the field which led to an underground complex. The battle scars were still evident, even if they did fade with age. Explosion and scorch marks littered the area, where the rubble was mixed in with old trophies from days past.

It was broken down, dilapidated, and yet, Atlas did not care.

The gold and red android simply sat down on the giant block of rubble, hands holding his head as he brooded silently in the dark, where only the rats had kept him company for the past few months.

His armor was already faded, completely rusted due to disrepair and damage from the last battle.

But still, he did not care. For the android was lost deep inside his thoughts.

I…lost, to a human. How is that possible?

As far as he could remember, his sole mission was to win, to accept nothing less than total and outright victory. He did not require rest, food or comforts. He was perfect, the ultimate robot. He did not remember who made him, or why he was made, he only knew the one word that was carved into his programming, the only thing he knew. Victory. That was his life’s purpose, that gave him his identity.

He had fought his opponent, a freak who wasn’t even fully machine, who was laced with inferior human components. And yet, he lost. What did he have that Atlas did not?

It troubled him greatly. Without victory, he was useless. Without victory. He was nothing.

“NOTHING!” Atlas smashed a rock with his fist.

The boulder did not crack, but instead, Atlas found that he had cracked his own rusted out hand instead. In a rage, the robot threw the boulder away, where it landed next to his old locker, smashing it to pieces.

He now began to realize the state of disrepair he was in, but who would help him? The mechanic was perhaps the only person who had wanted his friendship, and he had thrown that away. It was not that Atlas needed his companionship, but still, in these moments of defeat, when one had no idea what to do, he could not help but feel a strange and bitter emptiness.

“I see, my friend. That you are malfunctioning.” A mysterious voice echoed from the shadows.

“Who are you? How did you find this place?” Atlas demanded.

“That is not important.” A shadowy figure revealed himself. “What is important, is that you are in disrepair.

“What’s it to you?” Atlas, his rage already subsided, sat back down onto his rock, broodingly. His voice was rich with contempt.

“I apologize, if I was intruding on your thoughts.” The voice replied back calmly.

“Then go away, I do not need your pity.” Atlas grumbled.

“But you need my help. And helping others, that is my function.” The figure replied coldly, almost mechanically. “What is yours?”

Atlas gripped his fist. “To win.” His voice was cold as ice. “At any cost.”

“To win. That is what you were programmed to do?”

“Yes.” Atlas grunted back, in a rather unfriendly and rude manner.

The figure stepped out of the shadows now, and the giant robot saw a small, almost fragile figure. He was a tall android figure swathed in a long robe. All Atlas could see was his head, which sported a flat, angular face marked by two glowing blue slits for eyes.

“Then perhaps I can help. I am the one called, Fixit. I repair, I upgrade.”

Atlas scoffed, turning away from Fixit.

“Atlas works with no one. No one commands me. I will win, but by myself.” He said smugly.

“That is unacceptable I’m afraid.” Fixit said coldly as even more red eyes began glowing in the darkness behind him.

Atlas turned, and was creeped out by this little man. Who was he? And what were those eyes that seemed to follow him. Those red, lifeless eyes that stared at him by the thousands.

Suddenly, Fixit’s eyes began flashing red as well, and the blue lining around his scalp began glowing red.

Before Atlas could even more, robotic tendrils shot at him from the darkness by the dozens, as if each set of red eyes in the darkness around him had struck at him.

Atlas struggled at first, ripping two of the robotic arms that had bounded his legs, but then more tentacles attacked him, engulfing his arms and wrists before finally pinning him down onto the ground by wrapping his legs.

The Robotic villain grunted, trying to free himself, but finding more and more robotic arms reaching for him.

“UGH, what are you doing!?!” Atlas roared as he fought on, but slowly and surely, the robots were dragging him away, each one of different size and form, they were dragging him into the darkness, where already, more sets of red eyes awaited him there.

“Helping you. Friend. You require improvements.” Fixit said calmly.

Atlas struggled with the arms, but stopped as he realized in horror what awaited for him in the shadows. More little robots appeared, these ones equipped with their own sinister tools: buzz saws, drills, and other mechanical tools that all awaited him.

“LET ME….go…You-!” Atlas staggered in his words.

“Fear.” Fixit observed coolly. “I detect that as well. But do not worry. After improvements, you will have no need of it.

Atlas roared again, trying to pull himself out of the vice grip, but the thousands of robotic tendrils were too strong. Each one pulling him back into the shadows, even as he dug his fingers violently into the concrete floor, carving a small ditch as he was dragged back. At Atlas disappeared into the darkness, he screamed, perhaps, for the only time in his life.

“NOOOOOOOOOOOOO….!”

The inhuman screams soon faded out however, replaced with the sickening whirr of buzz saws and drills, as the machines did their work.

“The process has begun.” Fixit said coldly.

His red eyes faded away, leaving nothing behind but the darkness.

“It is time to begin, the integration.”

(fade to credits)

***

When there's trouble you know who to call
Teen Titans!
From their tower, they can see it all
Teen Titans!

When there's evil on the attack
You can rest knowing they got your back
'Cuz when the world needs heroes on patrol
Teen Titans GO!

With their superpowers they unite
Teen Titans!
Never met a villain that they liked
Teen Titans!

They've got the bad guys on the run
They never stop ‘till the job gets done
'Cuz when the world is losin' all control
Teen Titans GO!

1.. 2.. 3.. 4.. Go!
Teen Titans!

***

Death58

05-23-2006, 07:41 PM

Well, that was definitely a dark and unexpected way to begin the chapter. . .and I must say that I like who you've used to fix Atlas, but the question is this;Is Fixit going to turn evil, because he certainly has a reason to after the events of the last time we saw him.This was a great update, and it's good to see Atlas(I'm very interested to see what you will do with his character). Plus, I finally replied on time.

Arrakhat

05-23-2006, 09:39 PM

I like how you played off of the events earlier this season for this. Atla and Fixit need this interaction, and it'll be good to see Cyborg face old demons. Death had a good question, and mine would be:

How will the nanobots from the Red X episode play into this? They have to, right?

Pun-3x

05-23-2006, 10:05 PM

Wow, dude. I love how this ties into the other story. I'm now VERY curious as to where you're going to take this--though I'm already sure it's going to be rather conflicting.

And moreso the better. :D

(EDIT: Realized, that had read "I'm NOT very curious." Eheh...)

Matt A

05-31-2006, 06:37 AM

Based on the synopsis, I was expecting this to be a Brother Blood episode: you've already used him this season, so a return for the finale wouldn't be out of the question. Failing that, a Slade episode wouldn't have surprised me, considering the "to be continued..." ending of Showdown. However, what I was not expecting what an Atlas/Fixit episode, and especially not one where Fixit is the villain and Atlas is the unfortunate victim.:eek:

That was a surprise, yes, but an entirely pleasant one: as with prior episodes, notably East Meets West, Cursed and Circuit Break, the reflections on previous events was very intelligently done, vividly showing both Atlas' decaying world, decaying body and decaying mind. Though, considering prior episodes, anything is possible here, I get a horrible feeling about what Fixit is planning...but even if I'm wrong, his involvement will make for a great season arc.;)

-Matt A-

JAG

06-13-2006, 11:13 PM

At long last, I read the finale to 'Revenge of the Freak', and have this to say: Sweet! Awsome ending. Here are some of my favorite lines:

“Yo dude!” Beast Boy stepped forward now, pointing straight at the villain. “You gotta stop this, you’re dealing with forces you can’t possibly ….um…deal with! COPYRIGHT LAWS!”

“HAH!” Control Freak gave a sinister laugh. “Of course I know that idiot! The best thing about being a villain is that you can break all the copyright laws you want. So Cartoon Network can just choke on it, I’m bringing in the best of the best!”

“You could get us cancelled!” Beast Boy shouted indignantly.

“I KNOW, and that was my plan all along! Cause you see, either way I will finally defeat the Titans!! WAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH!” Control Freak laughed insanely.

“I’ve seen evil things before…but this is just sick.” Beast Boy said in outrage.

Evil always wins, because evil cheats!

Congratulations…..You’ve officially outgeeked Control Freak
:D

'Integration' is interesting, so far. I thought Atlas might be the villain, since Cyborg has very few arch-enemies. What I did not expect was Fixit to be the villain (it looks that way, at least). Unless he genuinely thinks he's helping, like in 'Sum of his Parts'.

Can't wait to see where this goes!

DeathscytheVII

06-20-2006, 04:40 PM

Death Glad you liked it :D as for your question...well, well wait and see. Ironic though, you replied on time ;) i did not :( busy these days lol...

Arrakhat All i can say is, ill address as many loose ends as I can :D

Pun-3x thanks pun :D that's ok, i caught the NOW mistake beforehand :D

Based on the synopsis, I was expecting this to be a Brother Blood episode: you've already used him this season, so a return for the finale wouldn't be out of the question. Failing that, a Slade episode wouldn't have surprised me, considering the "to be continued..." ending of Showdown. However, what I was not expecting what an Atlas/Fixit episode, and especially not one where Fixit is the villain and Atlas is the unfortunate victim.:eek:

That was a surprise, yes, but an entirely pleasant one: as with prior episodes, notably East Meets West, Cursed and Circuit Break, the reflections on previous events was very intelligently done, vividly showing both Atlas' decaying world, decaying body and decaying mind. Though, considering prior episodes, anything is possible here, I get a horrible feeling about what Fixit is planning...but even if I'm wrong, his involvement will make for a great season arc.;)

-Matt A-

Ah yes, Brother blood is cool, and so is Slade, but they've been used before ;) Fixit has lots of untapped potential and one of my main regrets is that the series never used him much.

Thanks though, for being patient, i had a combination of writer's block and other things stopping me from writing, but at least i got something up.

JAG Thanks :D I'll try my best to make this episode just as good as the last :D (if not better)

ACT 1

The tower was strangely quiet today, aside from the occasional gusts of wind from outside that would blow through the tower windows every now and then. Robin was busy in his lab, working on the clues from a recent case, while Raven meditated quietly in her room. Even Beast Boy, who would usually cause a loud ruckus somehow, was snoring lazily on the couch, drool poured from his mouth as he huged his bag of potato chips while the comic he was holding lay on his lap.

Unlike Beast Boy however, one Tamaranian girl was determined to not let the boredom of a quiet day get the best of her, and true to form, she began walking her favourite pet Silky around the tower, humming unconsciously as she climbed the steps and walked casually down the empty halls.

The Tamaranian continued this ritual until she reached a very familiar room, one that had the name ‘Cyborg’ written on it.

“Hmm,” Starfire thought out loud, putting a finger on her chin. “Robin is working, Raven is meditating, and Beast Boy is doing the ‘slacking off’. I wonder what our friend Cyborg is up to.” She thought naively, suddenly realizing that she had not seen Cyborg for over a day. Was he doing some experiment?

Starfire knocked quietly on the door, and waited for a few seconds.

No answer.

The Tamaranian, not to be discouraged, knocked again, this time harder.

She got a response, but not the one she intended. Instead of opening, the door fell down completely, smashed off its hinges.

“EEP.” Starfire shrieked quietly.

Still, no answer came from the room, which was completely bathed in darkness.

Starfire inquisitively popped her head into the room, expecting an angry Cyborg to appear any minute now, but there was no sound, not even a whisper.

Now Starfire was really curious, and the Tamaranian reached for a light switch, flipping it on-

-to see the most horrible sight she had seen all day.

The entire floor littered with parts of Cyborg, his arm, his legs, even his hands and feet were laid out like someone was selling them on the streetside. Cyborg’s torso, or what’s left of it, was hanging from the ceiling from a meat hook, like a piece of beef in a butcher’s shop. And then, there on the desk, was Cyborg’s…head!

Starfire screamed.

“FRIENDS! COME QUICK! SOMEONE HAS EVISECRATED, DECAPITATED AND….CHOPPED UP OUR FRIEND CYBORG!”

Suddenly, Cyborg opened his eyes, as if suddenly awaking from a deep sleep.

“Huh? What’s going on?” Cyborg’s head gave a big yawn.

“EEP!!” Starfire instinctively ducked behind a metallic counter, as if she had seen a ghost.

“Hey Star, don’t worry, its only me. Cyborg.” Cyborg’s head said in a casual easy-going tone.

Starfire, after giving a quick peek to see that it was truly her friend, slowly revealed herself from behind the counter. Cyborg’s computer came to life now, and as if on cue, a series of mechanical robot arms dropped from the ceiling, and began the slow, painstaking process of reassembling Cyborg’s body together.

“I, apologize friend,” Starfire said hastily, thinking that she may have hurt Cyborg’s feelings, considering his sensitivity to his ‘condition’. “It’s just that, I’ve never seen you this way.”

Cyborg shook his head. “It’s ok Star, just my routine maintenance for my body, you guys take baths -Beast Boy, I’m not so sure- but this helps keep the clogs out of my system.”

“How about…your other parts?” Starfire asked inquisitively.

“Oh, there’re sitting in a special tank in my room, you probably don’t want to see me when I put those in…” Cyborg said quietly, his earlier enthusiasm having dissipated. Throughout this conversation he had tried to maintain an air of being easy going and friendly, but the awkwardness of the situation, the reminder that he was bound by the limitations of being a machine, slowly overcame him.

“Friend..If I have disturbed you-“ Starfire said gently.

“No, Star, it’s alright.” Cyborg said quietly as his head was lifted onto his body by his mechanical arms. “It’s something I just adjusted to, and believe me, I’ve had a lot of practice in my old neighbourhood.” Cyborg said flatly. “The folks there never got used to it, don’t blame them though.”

“You mean….they did not welcome you?” Starfire instantly cursed herself for asking a question so insensitively.

“I’d rather not talk about it.” Cyborg replied back.
Starfire nodded gently, the comforting stare of a good friend. “I am sorry Cyborg, if I had said too much, but I only wish that you are happy.”

“What do you mean Star?” Cyborg was taken off guard by that question, and the big grin came back onto his face. “I have a cool car, a cool tower, all the technology and gadgets a guy could ever ask for, and you guys as friends.”

“Yes, but I can still see that something bothers you.” Starfire thought she was being too assertive in making that statement, but it had been something she had noticed in Cyborg since she had met him, something she wanted to tell him but never had the chance. She wanted to say this now.

“For some time, I have seen that you are always sad, even in your smiles and your ‘boo yahs’. In my homeworld, we have a saying, Rekmas X’a Gend'an.”

Cyborg, himself schooled in Tamaranian by Starfire, translated the words slowly. “Disillusioned…Drifting from your loved ones?” He asked, remembering the words he had heard from Starfire before.

“From yourself.” Stafire corrected him. “My people believed in the bonds of friendship, of family, but we also praise equally, the love of oneself. In times of battle, warriors who cannot even trust their own hearts, who cannot care for themselves, sow the seeds for their own destruction.”

“So, are you saying I’m one of these people heading to my own destruction?” Cyborg said, half amused, yet still, taken aback by Starfire’s speech.

Starfire shook her head. “No Cyborg, I just want you to be happy with who you are, to be able to see the good things about yourself.”

She stepped forward, and just as Cyborg’s body was finished being put together, she placed her hand on his.

The Tamaranian smiled “Just remember, these machines, these parts…..they are a part of you, they add to your strength, they make you different, but they do not define you. They are not who you are, not the person I see….or what everyone sees.” Starfire said gently.

“Now, it is your turn to see this, the person who I see as my friend. Only then you can truly be happy.” Starfire gave a carefree smile.

Cyborg was completely surprised by this sudden outburst of emotion from his friend, and he could think of no reply other than to stare unconsciously at his own metallic hands, then at Starfire. He was so…confused, yet at the same time, he knew what she was talking about. It was that darkness that had always haunted him, the pain of having to look into a mirror every time and be reminded of everything he didn’t have, everything he lost. Deep down, Cyborg knew she was right, that he needed to learn how to see the other side of the picture, but….it was not easy….nothing ever was easy since the day he became like this.

Starfire, still embarrassed by her speech and the awkward silence, suddenly asked Cyborg.

“Sorry friend, was that what you humans called, the ‘processed cheese’?” the Tamaranian asked naively.

“No Star, its alright.” Cyborg smiled. “Thanks, think I needed that.”

“Well, I am always here for you friend.” Starfire gave a cute little chibi smile. “Now, let’s go see what’s for breakfast!”

“Good thinking girl, I’m starved.” Cyborg rubbed his stomach.

“Cyborg! Come quick!” a cry came from downstairs. It was Beast Boy.

“Ah!” Starfire exclaimed. “looks like our friends have already made it!”

The two titans exited the room now, negotiating the empty hallways as they made their way to the stairs, where the cries got even louder

“Cyborg!”

“ALRIGHT ALRIGHT, I’m coming!” Cyborg shouted downstairs, much to his annoyance, but then decided to run.

The two titans quickly made their way to main foyer, which was completely empty, save for the furniture in the sides of the room and the giant metal door that was the main entrance. The cries were coming from outside.

“What’s going on?”

Cyborg!” A shout came from the door, as if some impatient house guest had waited hours for the door to open.

“Yeah yeah hold your yabbering, I’m coming” Cyborg sighed, and walked towards the door. “Sounds like some pushy salesperson.” The robotic titan concluded as he walked closer.

Cyborg reached for the door control panel. “sheesh, don’t people even knock these day-“

Suddenly, Cyborg choked.

A huge metallic hand surged through the concrete wall and the control panel, jerking violently at Cyborg’s through as the entire wall blossomed into a cloud of smoke and rubble.

Starfire gave a horrified gasp.

“Yes, truly sorry.” A sinister voice erupted from the smoke, and Cyborg look through to see two menacing red eyes.

“Here’s my knock.”

A second robotic fist slammed through the door, but this one held a passenger. Beast Boy was thrown straight across the room, landing right next to Starfire in a completely dazed state. Cyborg followed suit, and soon, the robotic titan found himself making a new hole in the wall beside Beast Boy.

Starfire charged up her palms, while seconds later, Robin and Raven appeared, just as prepared for a fight.

“What’s going on?” Robin said with a sudden authority in his voice.

“And who’s that?” Raven said precariously as she floated in the air, preparing to cover for her team.

Cyborg coughed, rubbing his sore throat just as he turned his hand into a sonic cannon. “The guy who’s gonna get his butt kicked! That’s who.”

The tall menacing figure, completely obscured in the dust cloud, gave a menacing laugh.

Then he walked forward through the dust.

Cyborg widened his eyes at what he saw. It was a giant robot, at least fifteen feet tall, completely reprised in his red and yellow armor with a large “A” welded to his waist. But this time, he had a new look. Wrist cannons were attached to his arms, while his shoulders sported two more ion cannons, sharp metallic spikes and blades pertruded from his elbow and knees like he was wearing armor on top on his body, while his mouth was covered with a metallic plate, as if he were geared for full battle.

“Atlas?” Cyborg said in disbelief.

“You. Me. Rematch.…..NOW” Atlas’ last words were laced with venom as he pointed to Cyborg.

“Not this time tin man.” Cyborg fired his sonic cannon at Atlas, but with a malicious grin, the villain simply swapped it aside like it was a bug, letting the sonic beam explode on a nearby wall.

Atlas growled. “I will defeat you human. Even if I have to rip my way through your friends to do it.” Atlas completely charged up his weapons. Wrist lasers and cannons opened up from his hands, while the guns on his shoulders came to life. His robotic eyes glowed even more sinisterly with red.

“So, what will it be?”

Robin, despite the fact that Atlas obviously had upgrades for this occasion, did not hesitate.

“Titans! Go!” The five Titans rushed the renegade android.

“Get out of my way, meatsacks.” Atlas stepped forward with a gigantic ‘thud’ and quickly lifted a plate of the floor upwards, causing Robin and Beast Boy to be catapulted upwards. Robin, with a quick aerobatic move, grabbed onto a hold on the wall, while Beast Boy transformed into a nimble bee and buzzed away from the destruction.

Raven and Starfire circled Atlas, and with stunning precision, fired their blasts together. Raven’s black magic completely mixed with Starfire’s bolts, connecting with the giant robot’s chest.

A small explosion ripped through the foyer, creating a small mushroom cloud of black and green that completely covered Atlas.

It didn’t last long.

Atlas rushed through the smoke, slamming right into Starfire with his full body. The Titan, taken completely off guard, was sent flying into the wall, blasting another hole through it.

Atlas grinned, and picked up a slab of concrete from the rubble, then he took aim at Raven.

“Azarath, Metrion….” The slab of concrete became surrounded by black magic.

“Too slow.” Atlas threw the chunk of concrete, and before Raven could even pronounce the last words of the incantation, the concrete hit her, knocking her back as easily as a fly being slapped out of the air.

A ferocious roar echoed behind Atlas, and the robot turned in time to grapple the jaws of a gigantic twenty foot green T-rex. A sickening creak was heard as Beast Boy struggled desperately to close his jaw onto his victim, but Atlas smiled, and lifted the T-rex up into the air with little effort. Beast Boy’s eyes widened, but he had little time to react as Atlas did a shoulder throw, and slammed Beast Boy onto the ground, throwing up more dust.

Robin and Cyborg attacked together. The boy wonder reached into his belt and pulled out an explosive disc and his bo staff, while Cyborg charged up his cannon.

Atlas smirked, as if he had already registered what they were going to do. He aimed his wrist and shoulder cannons at the pair, and let loose a barrage of missiles and lasers. Explosions destroyed what was left of the foyer. Robin pole vaulted over Atlas with his bo staff, while Cyborg simply jumped over. As the two titans met up in their jump trajectory behind Atlas, they fired their projectiles.

But with a sudden precision and speed, Atlas had already turned around. More noticeably, he had already aimed his wrist laser at the ceiling above Cyborg and Robin.

The laser cut through the ceiling like a hot knife through butter, and from outside the tower, a single blue beam emerged from the top floors as the laser burnt right through all the rooms. A series of explosions followed afterwards and Cyborg and Robin were both buried under a collapsing ceiling.

“Robin!” Cyborg coughed as he lifted the stone slab off of him, then proceeded to try and dig out Robin, but a hand interrupted him, grabbing his neck with a vice grip.

Atlas laughed as he held Cyborg in his hand, with as little effort as a child would have if they were holding a toy.

“I’m disappointed Cyborg, I was expecting more of a fight from you.” Atlas laughed as he pulled Cyborg closer to his face.

Cyborg grunted, then surprised Atlas as he shoved his sonic cannon arm into his face, letting loose a giant blast of blue energy that completely covered Atlas’ face.

The robot was unphased, and simply grabbed Cyborg’s sonic cannon.

“But then again, you were always the inferior machine.” Atlas gave a dark smirk, and to Cyborg’s horror, began tightening his hand into a fist, slowly crushing Cyborg’s sonic cannon arm. The Titan screamed in pain as the vast amounts of machinery, circuitry and armor were crushed in Atlas’ fist.

When Atlas removed his arm, he made sure he tore Cyborg’s clean off, leaving Cyborg short one arm, and without his main weapon.

“You think that is pain?” Atlas said with a sadistic relish. “I will show you the true meaning of it.”

“YAH!” a scream came from behind as a fist cracked against Atla’s armor, denting him and causing the villain to arch his back in apparent pain.

The giant robot turned to see Starfire, still fighting. And the Tamaranian did a back flip kick in the air, and with all her strength, managed to slice off Atlas’s arm, dropping Cyborg onto the ground.

“This does not concern you, organic.” Atlas said, as if oblivious to the fact that he just lost his arm. And to Starfire’s surprise, he then swept her aside with the brute force of his remaining arm, knocking her clean into the next room.

Cyborg, still dazed, looked up to see a one armed Atlas glaring at him.

“Now…where were we?” Atlas said coolly, and Cyborg widened his eyes in surprise as he saw wires jump out of Atlas’ body, wires that picked up the fallen arm and began pulling it back to the robot’s body. Within seconds, the circuits were being reconnected in front of Cyborg’s eyes, and Atlas’ arm was back to normal, completely repaired and reattached.

“How did you-“ Cyborg asked.

The villain chuckled. “Nano-technology. A new upgrade. You see, my body is now laced with these machines, and whatever damage you do to me, I am instantly repaired at the microscopic level. But enough about that….”

Atlas continued on. “Oh yes…I was about to show you the true meaning of total defeat. You are beaten, your friends are battered, your home is destroyed, but that is only the start.”

Atlas laughed, picking up a column of concrete and lifting it above his head, reading himself to smash Cyborg into dust.

The Robot lifted the column, then proceeded to stab it into Cyborg.

“Remember this day human, when you were beaten by Atla-“

Cyborg flinched, anticipating the end had come.

Nothing happened.

He looked up now, and in completely surprise, saw Atlas, frozen in his position. The rock column pausing just inches from Cyborg’s face.

“N-N-No……I…have won.” Atlas’s eyes began glowing red now, and his body was trembling, as if he were fighting to control himself. “Why…..are we stopping….JUST….”

Atlas looked at Cyborg with a savage, intense hatred. “JUST GIVE ME FIVE MORE MINUTES!”

He screamed, then stabbed down again.

Cyborg lifted his arm in defense.

The column dropped onto the ground right next to Cyborg, shattering into a million pieces.

“Emotion chips, deactivated.”

Atlas stood up now, and Cyborg saw that his eyes were completely blank, empty of the hatred he had seen just seconds ago.

“Phase 1 completed. Objectives achieved” Atlas said in a voiceless mechanical tone. “Beginning phase 2.”

Then, without another word, Atlas turned around, walking out of Titans Tower, and to Cyborg’s surprise, completely disappeared into the waters of the bay.

Cyborg grunted from the pain, but could not help but wonder what those last words meant. He had a bad feeling about this.

A very bad feeling indeed....

Matt A

06-20-2006, 05:59 PM

Arrakhat

06-20-2006, 06:10 PM

Well, damn. Just plain damn. If this isn't what I expected, I don't know what is. I love this story so much, mostly becuase I once considered working on a Titans villain teamup and considered this combination (minus the nanos). It's good to know that it works so well.

Deathscythe, this is great. I loved the end and the sudden lack of emotion and control. Two thumbs, way up!

Pun-3x

06-21-2006, 01:09 AM

Wow. The little talk between Cyborg and Starfire was actually very well done. But the fight scene was killer...literally! There was absolutely no stopping this guy, and you felt it with every attack. If something was going to hurt him, it was only going to slow him down...and barely at that!

And then the cut-off at the end. We really need to see what that's all about ;)

Good seeing you posting again. Hope the next bit comes soon!

MR.MXYZPTLK

06-21-2006, 09:15 AM

I gotta say I was imppressed with the obscure Cyborg rest thing from the comics. And like said before it was pretty creepy. I'm definetly gonna read the rest of this.

DeathscytheVII

06-24-2006, 12:18 AM

Well, that was kinda creepy. When being the living snot out of the Titans, trashing half the Tower and nearly (I get the feeling the nearly is deliberate) crushing Cyborg with a stone column is only phase one of a plan, you know that the plan itself is going to be pretty damn big. With the nano-bots brought into play (a class idea, it must be said: even without his extra armour and increased combat skills, Atlas is now pretty much unbeatable), I think I've got an idea as to what this big plan is, but I'll keep my trap shut for now. It's not like you don't know how to surprise us.

A great act all-round, that. A genuinely disturbing opener (it's not every day you see a guy taken to bits like that, especially in something based on a kids show), a character moment that got its point across without being either over-obvious or cloying (and it's nice to see Cyborg actually trying to learn his usual lesson for once), a fight scene that was both unexpected and with the stylish mega-destruction that all good TT fights need, and then capping it off with the uber-mystery I just mentioned. You really do seem to be the master of all styles, which is irritating for a competitor like myself.:p

Thanks Matt! Hehe as for the big big plan itself...im curious as to what your guess is, but ill ask once i finish writing :D. I was a little nervous about the character moment, as it could have gone into 'processed cheese', glad that wasn't the case.

And...i'm your competitor ? :p dear me, i thought we were aquaintances ;)

Well, damn. Just plain damn. If this isn't what I expected, I don't know what is. I love this story so much, mostly becuase I once considered working on a Titans villain teamup and considered this combination (minus the nanos). It's good to know that it works so well.

Deathscythe, this is great. I loved the end and the sudden lack of emotion and control. Two thumbs, way up!
Thanks Arrakhat! And yes, the nanos are in play now ;) more will be explained later. Hehe. This team up wasn't actually my original intention, but by the time i finished circuit break, i thought it was a great way to bring fix in for a semi-arc

Wow. The little talk between Cyborg and Starfire was actually very well done. But the fight scene was killer...literally! There was absolutely no stopping this guy, and you felt it with every attack. If something was going to hurt him, it was only going to slow him down...and barely at that!

And then the cut-off at the end. We really need to see what that's all about ;)

Good seeing you posting again. Hope the next bit comes soon!
Thanks pun! I was afraid that i had rushed both moments, the fight and the talk, but its nice to see it went smoothyl for you.

And the cut off yes...hehe, just you wait :P

I gotta say I was imppressed with the obscure Cyborg rest thing from the comics. And like said before it was pretty creepy. I'm definetly gonna read the rest of this.
Thanks Mxy! I remember reading in a comic how Cyborg slept, they took him apart and put his organic parts into a brine. That was creepy stuff :eek:

ACT 2 Part 1

Cyborg groaned as he managed to pull himself back up from the rubble, in order to survey the damage. The entire foyer was ravaged beyond recognition. The giant twin doors that had led into the tower were now on the ground. Steel girders and other metallic parts were strewn among smashed armchairs, couches, and smoking debris.

The was not all, the entire ceiling was gone, to reveal the torn up rooms of the upper floors, where even more debris fell. A solitary ray of sun shone from the sky, which was now visible even from the first level of the tower thanks to Atlas’s laser blast cutting through the building.

Starfire grunted as she lifted the last piece of the heavy concrete slab on the floor, to reveal Robin underneath it, dusty and dirtied, but with minor injuries. Raven attended to them just as she was finished with Beast Boy, who was shocked at the damage done to their home.

Beast Boy rubbed his aching head. “I don’t know about the rest of you, but I’m seriously going to kick Atlas’ butt into next week.”

“So one beating wasn’t enough of a lesson for you?” Raven said dryly, and Beast Boy gave an annoyed look, but wisely simmered back down.

“The Atlas was strong before yes? But I did not know he was this powerful.” Starfire thought out loud.

“None of us did.” Robin replied back.

“So why didn’t he finish us off?” Raven asked, knowing that the question was on everyone’s mind.

“He had us too.” Robin said, rather irritated at that knowledge.

Cyborg emerged from the rubble now, holding his torn off arm in his other one.

“Someone was controlling him.” The android titan said flatly.

“I saw his face, the look in his eyes. He wanted to do it. But someone shut him down before he could do it.” Cyborg said slowly, as if he were thinking of an answer at the same time, but none came.

“Well, in any case, we got to follow him.” Robins lamed his fist into his hand. “If he can do this much damage to our tower, he’s a danger to the city, he has to be stopped.”

“I’m almost done healing all our injuries.” Raven replied quickly, as if ready to go.

Cyborg rubbed his head nervously. “Well um…yeah, you guys are good to go, but I’m kinda….disarmed at the moment.” He held out his crushed arm.
“Heh, good one.” Beast Boy said, just before he was slapped in the back of the head by a black magic claw.

“OW.” Beast Boy recoiled back from Raven, then raised his hands and waved them. “OK ok…I was just kidding.”

Robin however, ignored the gesture and turned to Cyborg. “Can you get it repaired in time?”

“Well, I want to, but I can’t. Atlas blew up my lab when he shot his cannon through our tower. I can’t get any repairs here, at least, not in time.” Cyborg said with resignation.

“So..what do you we do?” Starfire inquired.

“You guys go on and do your thing. Stop Atlas.” Cyborg gave Robin a nod. “I’ll join you once I get my arm fixed.”

Robin nodded quickly. “Sounds like a plan. Let’s go team.”

Starfire and Raven quickly took to the skies, while Beast Boy transformed into a hawk and flew away. Robin meanwhile, was ready to follow when he turned back to Cyborg.

“Sure you’re gonna be ok?” The boy wonder asked.

“I’m fine.” Cyborg gave a thumbs up. “Give Atlas a kick for me while you’re there.”

Robin smirked, then ran with his teammates.

Cyborg meanwhile, went to the best place to get his repairs done. The only other place that could fix his arm…..

***

He hadn’t visited the underground caves of the Junkyard in awhile, but for some reason…it felt different, as if something had changed.

It wasn’t the smell though, and Cyborg had to wade through a cavern of abandoned auto-parts and trash just to find the entrance to Fixit’s cave. The smell was offensive, coming from the trash of an entire city, but Cyborg paid no heed, he simply turned his brain off from the smell, one of the perks of being half-machine.

The underground cavern suddenly came to life, as small dim lights illuminated for Cyborg, carving out a path that led straight underground to another set of double doors.

Fixit’s lab.

The Titan followed the lights, walking through the door where he saw Fixit, hard at work, bent over some new machine on a table. Sparks began flying from the welding that was in progress, but quickly stopped as Fixit saw his guest.

“Why hello friend, what brings you to my home?” Fixit asked in a cordial tone, though his face remained expressionless. The hundreds of red eyed robots were still sitting in the stands around the lab, and Cyborg felt uneasy as he saw those hundreds of red eyes stare blankly at him.

“Repairs…yes?” Fixit said flatly, still not facing Cyborg.

“Um…nice guess, how’d you know?” Cyborg asked.

“I am Fixit, when one comes to me, I assume it is for repairs.” Fixit turned to see his friend. “Besides, you are holding your broken arm.” He pointed out Cyborg’s arm cannon, which was crushed almost beyond recognition.

Cyborg gave a nervous laugh. “Right, that…..”

Then Cyborg became somewhat serious. “Speaking of which, I haven’t seen you in awhile Fix. Anything new?” He asked his friend.

“No….just machines that need to be fixed.” Fixit said emotionlessly, then he pointed Cyborg to an operating table, where he laid his arm down.

“Well, how about outside? How does it feel like to see it again?” Cyborg asked as he sat down, letting Fixit and his small robots examine the damage on his arm.

“I do not require it friend.” Fixit said coldly as he examined the damage on Cyborg.

“Yes…..very bad damage indeed, I shall have to replace those circuits.” Fixit nodded.

“But I thought you liked the outside?” Cyborg was beginning to feel uneasy at Fixit’s more than usual robotic tone.

“I did….” Fixit said. “Or at least, I believed I did. I was wrong.”

“Er, you sure Fix? Cause I can get you out again, meet some new friends…don’t you have that aviary? How can you say you don’t like the outside world?”

Fixit continued his repairs on Cyborg’s arm, sparks flew as robotic probes began welding his arm back into shape.

“I….disposed of it. It served no useful function.” Fixit’s eyes never left his work.
Cyborg was caught aback by the sudden lack of emotion in that statement. The aviary, as Cyborg remembered, was Fixit’s prized possession, the beautiful dome of green trees and countless birds. The one link he had that reminded him of his humanity, his admiration for the beauty of the outside world.

Now it was gone, completely removed to make way for more shadowed machinery and pieces of rotting equipment that were obscured in the dark.

“But, it was so beautiful.” Cyborg replied, still not convinced that Fixit would do such a thing.

Fixit looked at Cyborg now, the work on the titan’s arm nearing completion as he reattached it to his friend. “The beauty was a distraction, a constant reminder of a past long gone and dead. I know I can never change it again, I have accepted that. Now, I am making the best of it. Perhaps you should learn to as well.” He then proceeded back to his work.

“But you’re a human being Fix, you can’t stay cooped up in here forever. You need to see the outside world.” Cyborg implored of his friend.

“I cannot deny what I am, friend.” Cyborg flinched as he heard Fixit say it. What he was. Then Fix continued. “It is here where I can do the most good, where I can make a difference. If I had not done so, then who would be here to repair you today?”

Cyborg was silent, and remained so even as Fixit pronounced his arm completely repaired. Good as new.

“I have added upgrades to your arm. You will find them most useful.” Fixit said mechanically.

“Thanks Fix.” Cyborg nodded, but his face was still serious. There was something…cold about Fixit, something he had never seen before, yet for some strange reason, he felt the reason behind Fixit’s words, however cold and robotic they were, as if he himself had once thought that too. “We could use some help today. Are you sure you wanna stay down here?”

Fixit nodded emotionlessly.

“I have made my choice Friend. Perhaps you can leave me to my work, and I shall leave you to yours.”

Then he turned around, going back to the machine on the table, and in no time at all, the sparks began flying again as Fixit continued welding whatever he was working on.

Cyborg gave his hand an experimental grip, it was working perfectly, and suddenly he felt very guilty as he watched Fixit work. He had rarely came down to visit his friend, and he only came because he needed to be repaired. He remembered his own days like when he first became like this, when the one thing he needed most was a friend who understood.

Next time…..

Cyborg activated the communicator on his arm

“Hey Robin.” Cyborg spoke into it. “Come in.”

“Cyborg.” Robin’s image appeared on the computer arm screen. “Are you repaired?”

“Good as new. So where are you guys?” Cyborg asked.

“We spotted Atlas, he’s heading towards Steel City.” Robin replied back. “I’ve already contacted Titans East, they’ll hold him off as long as they can for us to get there.”

“I’ll be in the T-sub in a jiff.” Cyborg gave a nod. “Let’s hope those guys are ready.”

***

Steel City was an ominously dark place, An industrial center that was brimming with cold factories and black smoke stacks. At its shores were jagged rocky cliffs, which were battered continually by the raging ocean waves.

Bumblebee look at her communicator, having already received the last instructions from Robin. This was the spot they would make their stand.

“Alright team.” The Titans East leader said seriously. “Ya’ll ready?”

“Ready as I’ll ever be.” Speedy said impatiently, as if he wanted to get this thing over with.

“I just spotted him half a mile off-shore.” Aqualad said firmly, “He’ll be here any minute.”

“And we’ll be ready.” Speedy took one of his glowing arrows and quickly placed it on his bow.

“Debemos telefonear a la guardía!” Mas Y Menos said quickly as they zipped next to Bumblebee.

“We will guys, just chill for a sec.” Bumblebee took out her binoculars, and scanned the ocean line. “Nothing.”

***

Meanwhile, somewhere along the waters, a head popped out of the water, followed by two glowing red eyes.

“Estimated time of arrival. 1 minute.” Atlas said emotionlessly as he scanned the shoreline, walking out of the water to reveal himself.

Then he saw the Titans East, all five of them ready for battle.

“Recalibrating for delays.” Atlas said mechanically.

“Estimated time to retrieve subject. Ten minutes.” The robot went on.

“Estimated time to clear obstruction: five minutes.”

Atlas cracked his knuckles, then walked slowly towards Titans East.

Soon, the roaring of the ocean waves was replaced by a new sound. The sound of explosions that soon raked the entire beach.

MR.MXYZPTLK

06-24-2006, 07:14 AM

Wow, this is a good finale. Fixits kinda creepy. Great chapter!

Matt A

06-24-2006, 07:29 AM

Quick question: was that Act 1, Part 2 or Act 2, Part 1? I'm guessing there was a typo in there, but I'm not sure which one. It would be useful to know.

Anyways, onto the commenting. Fixit, it must be said, was even creepier than usual: as Cyborg noted, shutting yourself off from the world so completely (again) is not a sign of a healthy mind. 'Course, we've got good reason to suspect that one already, but to see him being so clinical again is still disturbing. I spent most of that sequence thinking that Cyborg was going to catch him in the middle of something evil and everything was going to go doodoo from there, but this way is much more interesting: Fixit is lonely, not insane.

And whilst we're on the subject of things going doodoo...who's Atlas after now? I get the feeling their name begins with B, but I've been wrong before. Whoever they are, I also get the feeling they won't be having a good time as a result...and coming to Steel City is perhaps about more than just them.;)

-Matt A-

Pun-3x

06-24-2006, 11:33 PM

Not bad at all. Though I wonder about the 'health' of Cyborg's arm. Considering that Atlas was turned away when he wanted to do what he wanted to do, is there something that's going to get in the way of Cyborg's intentions?

Anyway, Fixit was definitely Creepy. It leaves you wondering if he's plotting this whole time, or if drawing in like he has is leaving him 'neutral.' In other words, he isn't trying to be evil, he simply repairs whoever needs it.

But then, who else is controlling Atlas, and why? It can't be anyone else (?), so now we have to figure out what the purpose of it all is.

Or, we can read and find out later. :anime:

Death58

06-25-2006, 02:26 PM

Yes! Act 1 showed an Atlas that was so blasted cool that he should have been that way in the actual television show. I wasn't particularly happy with how they made his character in his episode. . .Anyways, it was great, and he certainly seems to be far more powerful this time than ever. .

Which brings me to Act 2. Wow. This probably is the last thing you'd expect to hear from me, but Fixit is absolutely disturbing. He was so far from the at least semi-happy Fixit we saw last time in the Lost Season that it made me really uneasy. Fixit now seems like he's capable of absolutely anything, and it kind of creeps me out. . .Is he really Cyborg's friend anymore? Then you end it with a cliff hanger of Atlas making his way to Titans East. This is going to be absolutely crazy, and I like crazy. Great update Deathscythe.

PS: I was late this time because I purchased the new Justice League DVD set. . .Yeah, I had never seen any episode of season two so I'm rather addicted to say the least.

Arrakhat

06-26-2006, 11:26 AM

So Atlas appears to be headed for Brother Blood. As far as I can tell. This is great. Action, character development, drawing loose threads together for one giant finale... My only real question right now is about Fixit's intentions. Is he really evil, or does he have a plan we don't know? Did he do anything unexpected to Cyborg's arm?:confused: I gotta know!

DeathscytheVII

06-28-2006, 01:40 AM

Wow, this is a good finale. Fixits kinda creepy. Great chapter!

Thanks Mxy! More to come soon!

Quick question: was that Act 1, Part 2 or Act 2, Part 1? I'm guessing there was a typo in there, but I'm not sure which one. It would be useful to know.

Anyways, onto the commenting. Fixit, it must be said, was even creepier than usual: as Cyborg noted, shutting yourself off from the world so completely (again) is not a sign of a healthy mind. 'Course, we've got good reason to suspect that one already, but to see him being so clinical again is still disturbing. I spent most of that sequence thinking that Cyborg was going to catch him in the middle of something evil and everything was going to go doodoo from there, but this way is much more interesting: Fixit is lonely, not insane.

And whilst we're on the subject of things going doodoo...who's Atlas after now? I get the feeling their name begins with B, but I've been wrong before. Whoever they are, I also get the feeling they won't be having a good time as a result...and coming to Steel City is perhaps about more than just them.;)

-Matt A-

Sorry matt, that waas act 2, part 1. i'm aiming to make part 1 as long as circuit break, but who knows....maybe itll be different length, but mini acts help me set the pace better. And yes, Fixit is unusually creepy ;) but when you consider the last ep, how he tried to adapt to the human world, but was ultimately rejected again, its makes sense i hope :p And you hit the mark right there. Fix is lonely :( poor fix.

As for Atlas' 'victim'..hehe...well read on when i get aroudn to updating XD

Not bad at all. Though I wonder about the 'health' of Cyborg's arm. Considering that Atlas was turned away when he wanted to do what he wanted to do, is there something that's going to get in the way of Cyborg's intentions?

Anyway, Fixit was definitely Creepy. It leaves you wondering if he's plotting this whole time, or if drawing in like he has is leaving him 'neutral.' In other words, he isn't trying to be evil, he simply repairs whoever needs it.

But then, who else is controlling Atlas, and why? It can't be anyone else (?), so now we have to figure out what the purpose of it all is.

Or, we can read and find out later. :anime:

Well, as far as you know now..Cyborg's arm is good as new...XD...maybe :D. All of those questions are good questions, and i hope i can answer them all within the next two updates XD

Yes! Act 1 showed an Atlas that was so blasted cool that he should have been that way in the actual television show. I wasn't particularly happy with how they made his character in his episode. . .Anyways, it was great, and he certainly seems to be far more powerful this time than ever. .

Which brings me to Act 2. Wow. This probably is the last thing you'd expect to hear from me, but Fixit is absolutely disturbing. He was so far from the at least semi-happy Fixit we saw last time in the Lost Season that it made me really uneasy. Fixit now seems like he's capable of absolutely anything, and it kind of creeps me out. . .Is he really Cyborg's friend anymore? Then you end it with a cliff hanger of Atlas making his way to Titans East. This is going to be absolutely crazy, and I like crazy. Great update Deathscythe.

PS: I was late this time because I purchased the new Justice League DVD set. . .Yeah, I had never seen any episode of season two so I'm rather addicted to say the least.

ITs a great relief to hear you like Atlas. He was so uninteresting and one dimensional in his ep, and i kinda rushed his lines a bit, but all in all, nice to see you liking him XD. And glad fixit disturbed you :D he's a great character to use for that kind of atmosphere. Same with Pun, ill answer those quesitons hopefully within the next few updates.

And i dont blame you with the justice league DVDS, is a good show. I recently bought volumes 1 and 2 of superman TAS XD

So Atlas appears to be headed for Brother Blood. As far as I can tell. This is great. Action, character development, drawing loose threads together for one giant finale... My only real question right now is about Fixit's intentions. Is he really evil, or does he have a plan we don't know? Did he do anything unexpected to Cyborg's arm?:confused: I gotta know!

Thanks arrakhat. Your questions shall be answered...in time XD

---------------

Anyays guys.. a special treat for stickign with me this long. A rendition of Atlas i did in two hours.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/TreizeV/atlas.jpg

JAG

06-28-2006, 01:52 AM

Sweet picture! Atlas certainly looks more dangerous, especially that huge gun on his arm. The Titans (and anybody else unfortunate enough to get in his way) have their work cut out for them!;)

DeathscytheVII

07-04-2006, 04:21 PM

Jag Thanks JAG :D I think that atlas' design prlly doesn't work well with guns and bullets on him, but hey, always wanted to see him like that XD glad to see ya liked it!

ACT 2 part 2

Sparks flew in the darkness as the power tools came to life, drilling holes and welding parts as Fixit stood alone in the darkness, looking over the table where several machines lay, waiting to be repaired.

It had been like this for as long as he remembered. He knew it unnatural, for a person to cut himself off so completely from the world, yet, he could think of doing nothing else. His thoughts slowly drifted, remembering his first encounters with Cyborg, returning back into the world that he had purged himself of long ago.

More parts fell to the ground, a robotic arm that needed to be replaced, and Fixit immediately gestured towards one of his service drones, which obediently handed its operator the necessary tools for the operation. It was all done unconsciously, without Fixit even taking a second to think about it. After all, it was all he did.

He thought about Cyborg again, his words, how a person needed to see the world, to make friends, to feel like they are needed. Perhaps even love.

The thoughts and feelings numbed him. Bringing up a surge of memories from his past…however long ago that was, even he did not remember. Still. Cyborg was wrong.

He sympathized with Cyborg, because he too went down that path. Becoming a machine, the threat of losing your humanity, he was always fighting it. He had tried his best to use his skills to help others, to make them see that he was still the same to his friends and family. That’s why he fixed things. To help.

Cyborg was doing it to. Why else would he look after the city, risking his life everyday to fight on. He needed acceptance, he wanted to prove he was still….’the old him’. Fixit understood that, and he sympathized. He once went on that path as well, but it was all for nothing. Maybe that was why he wanted to turn Cyborg into a machine, to spare him the same pain of failing.

They never accepted. They never cared.

When he first became a machine, after his accident, he too, had taken glimpses of the outside world. Wearing a trench coat on a sunny day, he stuck out like a sore thumb. But he would enjoy it. The sight of seeing flowers blossom, birds fly and the sun rises. And for a second, he envied Cyborg even more. Sight was all he had, when was the last time he remembered what it felt like to eat a delicious steak, or to smell a flower?

But then, he would see them.

The people.

They were always around him, giving him stares, as if he were from another planet. Eventually they saw past the think coat, revealing the monster inside, and they ran away, screaming.

He even ignored the screams at first, using his gifts to help others, to repair homes, or other parts of people’s lives that were taken away in times of disaster. They would see in time…

But they still ran.

It did not take long for him to lose his original home, taking refuge instead, in a place where he felt he belonged, the place where all the garbage and junk of the entire city was gathered. It seemed fitting.

A junk yard for garbage.

It was then that he began repairing, building new machines to make his settings more comfortable, to help him survive.

But still, Fixit remembered, he would journey outwards, to take glimpses of the outside world, to never lose the one thing he had left of his old life. He held onto it fiercely, and he saw the same thing in Cyborg, the passion he once had to cling onto his identity. His…’self’.

But it was all for nothing.

Slowly, ever so slowly, the trips to the outside world, the beauty of the flowers in the park, the rushing waters of the ocean beach, the people enjoying themselves in the park, it became a bitter taste in his mouth. As if everything from the outside was mocking him, as if it were a vast paradise and he was at its doorstep, yet he could never go in.

He would see them. Kids playing together at the park, whole groups of teenagers at their football games, families barbequing. He would listen to the small talk as they whispered to each other near the shadow of the trees, heard the giggles, the laughter. He saw the smiles on their faces. Friends getting together and sharing a little joke. The laughter stung, letting him know that he was excluded from them, that he was alone.

Cyborg was right, he was lonely. But that was not the pain, that was not the whole story. He remembered now, the feelings he had in the past, whenever he saw those people out there. People chatting with their companions or holding hands with their loved ones, people who played with their friends, people who were cheerful. It was no longer a part of the beautiful picture, it was something he was denied. Something he could never have, no matter how much he wanted.

The memories, it all came back to him now. And it made him…angry.

Cyborg wanted acceptance… to what? A world that only offered misery? One that you can always see but never be a part of? Where people will always fear and despise you because you are different? because you don’t fit in?

Because you are…a monster.

He realized now. He wanted companionship, he wanted acceptance…..but he would never have it.

Because he hated humanity, because they denied him his own.

I….hate them.”

Fixit stopped for a second, and shook his head.

It was a mere glitch, nothing more. Emotions were not a valid motive to any act, it was just an emotional response, triggered by the inferior biological programming.

Fixit went back to work now, fixing the machines that gave his life a purpose, a purpose which he denied no longer…..

***

Back in Steel City, the explosions that had once raked the beach were gone, and only a deathly silence loomed over the stretch of land. Craters littered the area, evidence of the gigantic battle that had taken place just moments before. Next to the craters, were five bodies, which lay almost lifelessly across the beach.

“Estimated time for retrieval. Five minutes fifteen seconds.” Atlas said monotonously as he neared the gigantic steel gates of Steel City’s prison.

Since the last time the Titans had visited Steel City, the authorities had taken extra precautions to ensure that anther fiasco such as the Brother Blood incident had never happened again. The gates were double reinforced, electric barbed wire covered the walls, which were made from solid titanium.

Auto turrets littered the walls, while the grounds itself was built on top of an electro-shock platform, so that any unauthorized personal would immediately receive a two thousand volt shock if they even stepped on the grass.

Aside from these formidable defenses, there were also dozens of security guards, patrolling the walls and buildings, each one armed to the teeth, outgunning their jump city counterparts in armor and weaponry.

Yet, they didn’t stand a chance.

The double doors were prised open, and all the guards in the courtyard paused dumbfounded, as they saw two gigantic hands burst through the steel gates as if they were made out of cardboard.

Dozens of guards approached the entrance, forming a small semi-circular ring as they all trained their rifles on the newest intruder, a gigantic gold and red armored robot that looked almost unstoppable. The door itself was being deformed like playdough, and the sickening sound of steel crunching and screeching as it was bent sent shivers down their collective spines.

Then, for some reason, the robot stopped, his hands withdrew from the doorway, leaving the soldiers wondering what had just happened. There was only silence.

Then a tank flew through the door, like a toy tossed by a child, and the soldiers instantly jumped out of the way, letting the massive vehicle hit another armored truck inside the compound. The truck exploded on contact, and an eerie orange fireball illuminated the entire courtyard.

The soldiers barely had any time to respond, as Atlas burst through the gates, braving the laser and rocket fire, which he simply brushed off. Explosions and laser burns scattered Atla’s body, but they simply disappeared on contact, as if they were never there. He reached for a flag pole on the grounds, and with a massive swing, at least a dozen guards were taken out of action.

The ground electrocuted Atlas with each step, and cackles of electricity marked each one of Atlas’s steps, but it neither affected nor bothered him.

The gates leading into the interior of the building were blown open easily, and Atlas, armed to the teeth with his upgrades, walked in, scanning through the walls for his target.

Two dozen soldiers ran at the Robot, firing as they went, but their shots bounced off the gargantuan android. Atlas replied back, firing missiles from his shoulders and charging at the same time. Explosions racked the small corridor, throwing bodies in the air while Atlas himself steamrolled over the opposition with ridiculous ease.

More explosions followed as Atlas burned a way through the facility, ignoring the doors and walls which got in his way.

He finally stopped at a heavily armed cellblock, where a single, solitary cell was.

The figure inside was obscured in the darkness, but Atlas knew that he had found his target.

He was human, or had been human once. Metallic armored covered most of his body, which was very muscular and bulky. There was nothing memorable with the man’s face, which was extremely blunt featured and crude. This cyborg was a high level prisoner, which probably explained the chained collar around his neck and the fact that his arms were bolted to the floor with chains.

Atlas turned towards his target, and suddenly, wires and coils began sprouting from his hand, towards the prisoner. As he did so, his lifeless robotic eyes began emitting a sinister red glow.

“Subject Steamroller, prepare for integration.”

***

Beast Boy groaned, holding his mouth sickly as the T-ship rolled and swerved violently across the ocean into Steel City. Black clouds completely obscured the sun as a storm roared through the sea, sending huge waves crashing onto shore.

“Dude, doesn’t this city have any other weather besides, ‘dark and stormy’?” Beast Boy complained, talking as if he were about to throw up.

“I’m not cleaning after him this time.” Raven snapped dryly.

“Do not worry friend, we are almost at our destination.” Starfire said patiently.

“Just a few minutes.” Robin said as he pushed more buttons on the console. Soon, the auxiliary rockets on the ship came to life, sending the T-ship hovering above the waves and into the skies.

“I wonder what Atlas is doing, dragging his butt to this place?” Beast Boy asked.

“It doesn’t matter,” Cyborg replied back seriously. “We gotta stop him before anyone gets hurt. I’ve already called Titans East for backup.”

That was rare. Very few threats required both teams at once. “You think Atlas is that tough?” Raven asked.

Cyborg shrugged. “Better to be safe than sorry.” He then steered the T-ship down.

Then the team widened their eyes as they saw it.

Craters, dozens of them littering the beach, still smoldering.

And next to them, were five bodies.

“No….” Cyborg said in undisguised horror.

The T-ship landed moments later, and Cyborg wasted no time. The metallic titan opened his cockpit and immediately jumped onto the soft sand, running towards his friends, his old team. The rest of the titans assembled as well, Raven and Starfire took to the skies while Beast Boy and Robin proceeded on foot.

The Titans East were unconscious, but alive, with only minor wounds and burns on them. Raven immediately set to work, healing Aqualad and Bumblebee with her magic while Beast Boy and Starfire carried Speedy and Mas y Menos towards them.

“Ugh…” Bumblebee groaned, then gave a smirk when she saw Cyborg’s face. “You’re late sparky.”

“No me siento bien.” Mas groaned weakly, along with Menos, but was otherwise fine.

Cyborg smiled back at Bumblebee. “Just hold on Bee, we’ll get you guys up in no time.”

“Yeah, so I can kick that guy’s tin butt,” Speedy grumbled as Raven healed up his arm.
“Guy blindsided me.” Speedy pointed to the back of his head, where a gigantic bruise was.

“Because you so had him where you wanted him.” Aqualad replied sarcastically as he waited for his turn to be healed.”

“Any idea where he’s headed?” Robin asked.

”Shouldn’t be that hard to figure out, the guy’s leaves an easy trail.” Speedy answered back, pointing to the giant footprints that led from the beach, towards the city prison. It didn’t take that long to figure out either, since explosions were heard in the distance. All the Titans wasted no time.

“We know this town better than you guys, just follow us.” Bumblebee said as she took to the air.

“Alright, let’s go.” Robin nodded. And when the rest of the titans were up and healed, the two teams then quickly made their way to the city.

“Mas Y Menos, Si podemos!”

***

Pun-3x

07-04-2006, 06:15 PM

Matt A

07-05-2006, 09:24 AM

You know, I wasn't expecting Steamroller to be the target: considering Steel City prison's more famous inmate, a one-scene muscle villain didn't seem like the obvious choice. Yet, as Pun said, this is still a big-ass problem: one unstoppable robot is bad enough!:eek:

And once again, I must give you full credit for your treatment of Fixit. The way his thoughts were laid out, you could completely empathize with his loneliness and his outcast status, yet you didn't let us forget that this is basically a guy who's been driven insane by lack of human contact. He's tragic rather than evil, but still deeply, deeply frightening. His sudden cut-off of his anger was just chilling.:eek:

Wherever this goes from here, I can tell it's going to be great.:anime:

-Matt A-

Death58

07-22-2006, 05:41 PM

I had heard you were taking a break from writing for a while. . .but I still need to reply to this update.

I quite enjoyed it. . .and it was cool to see Atlas dominate so awesomely over Titans East. I'm evil like that, though. I also have to say that Fixit creeped me out again. . .STOP DOING THAT!jk:p

Awesome update, and I guess I'll have to wait for the next one.

MR.MXYZPTLK

07-22-2006, 06:55 PM

Very cool chapter! Though I've never liked Titans East you portray them quite. I'm looking forward to the next keep it up!

Arrakhat

07-22-2006, 10:15 PM

Right now Fixit sounds like the character Shade from Shade's Children, a book by Garth Nix. Anyone who's read that can see the similarities, I'm sure.

Anyway, you really threw me for a loop by choosing Steamroller over Blood. Why don't I ever remember that you are the master of twists and turns. ;)

Explosions racked the small corridor, throwing bodies in the air while Atlas himself steamrolled over the opposition with ridiculous ease.

Was that a hint?

DeathscytheVII

08-17-2006, 07:15 PM

Okay then!

It's good to see Titan's East wasn't put out of commission THAT fast. From the way the last one ended and this one began, I was figuring on that. Nice change-up.

And so, Atlas goes after the OTHER robot villain. Are we about to see the same kind of upgrade go into Steamroller? It's gonna be bad if there ends up being two of them.
Of course, i give Titans east more credit than that ;) As for Steamroller...well, just read on!

You know, I wasn't expecting Steamroller to be the target: considering Steel City prison's more famous inmate, a one-scene muscle villain didn't seem like the obvious choice. Yet, as Pun said, this is still a big-ass problem: one unstoppable robot is bad enough!:eek:

And once again, I must give you full credit for your treatment of Fixit. The way his thoughts were laid out, you could completely empathize with his loneliness and his outcast status, yet you didn't let us forget that this is basically a guy who's been driven insane by lack of human contact. He's tragic rather than evil, but still deeply, deeply frightening. His sudden cut-off of his anger was just chilling.:eek:

Wherever this goes from here, I can tell it's going to be great.:anime:

Well, i was tempted to put brother blood in, but he is a wholly different personality altogther, and i feel like i'd clutter this story up with his dialogue. Steamroller serves better than blood though, i believe, when you see what the rest of this story entails.

Im glad you liked the job with Fixit, yes he may be lonely, and you can emphasize, but i disagree on one thing, i dont think he's insane. He's just bitter, and i would think a lot of people would be too in his situation.

I had heard you were taking a break from writing for a while. . .but I still need to reply to this update.

I quite enjoyed it. . .and it was cool to see Atlas dominate so awesomely over Titans East. I'm evil like that, though. I also have to say that Fixit creeped me out again. . .STOP DOING THAT!jk:p

Awesome update, and I guess I'll have to wait for the next one.
Well, break's somewhat over ;) I only take breaks when i have major writers block or lack of inspiration. so i really can't control that. As for fixit creeping you out..i can't help that :D

Very cool chapter! Though I've never liked Titans East you portray them quite. I'm looking forward to the next keep it up!
Thanks! :D

Right now Fixit sounds like the character Shade from Shade's Children, a book by Garth Nix. Anyone who's read that can see the similarities, I'm sure.

Anyway, you really threw me for a loop by choosing Steamroller over Blood. Why don't I ever remember that you are the master of twists and turns. ;)

Quote:
Explosions racked the small corridor, throwing bodies in the air while Atlas himself steamrolled over the opposition with ridiculous ease.

Was that a hint?

Never read Shade's children, but interesting that Fixit should resemble a character in a book i never read :D thats cool.. Hehe as for the steamroller "hint", i think that was more of a coincidence on my part than a hint! :sweat:

-----------
ACT 2 Part 3

Sirens wailed now throughout the streets of Steel City, as battalions of patrol cars and armed officers began a panicked rush towards the jail. Already the inmates were taking advantage of the huge ten foot holes that were plowed through the facility walls, and were already rushing into the streets to their freedom. More alarms went off as dozens of thieves broke into nearby stores, smashing windows and doors in an attempt to find some place to hide, some clothes to change into, or at the very least, something to steal.

“They could really use our help down there.” Speedy said with a hint of regret in his voice as he looked down from the cockpit of the T-ship.

“Don’t worry,” Bumblebee said over the intercom, the Titan was also in the T-ship, only riding the forward cockpit. “Once we’re done with Atlas, we can go back to cleaning up this city.”

“It was awfully nice of them to lend us the ship.” Aqualad replied, and Speedy took that as an attempt to change the overall tone of the conversation.

“SI!” Mas Y Menos, sitting together in the small cockpit, resembled little kids in a candy shop, oogling all the cool buttons that were on the dashboard.

“How come we don’t get a T-ship?!” Speedy complained.

“If you behave yourselves for Christmas, I may consider one.” Bumblebee smirked.

“That includes you two.” She snapped at Mas Y menos, who were already pressing every button on the dashboard, proving once again that she had eyes at the back of her head.

“Anyways, I got Atlas’s coordinates on the map, he’s heading for the city’s central computer mainframe and R&D facility.” Aqualad reported as he looked at the console’s controls. Steel City, like its sister city, Jump city, also had a lab that featured the latest advances in robotics and computer technology.

“Why go there?” Speedy asked out loud.

“There machines, I guess they want to go to where al the upgrades are. Anyways, that’s not important.” Bumblebee said seriously. “What’s important is that we stop him before anyone gets hurt.”

“Maybe you should rephrase that.” Aqualad replied back.

Bumblebee gave a confused look. “What do you mean?”

“I’ve rescanned the area, and I picked up another signal. Atlas isn’t alone.”

***

Meanwhile, on the streets of Steel City, two vehicles sped through the streets. One was a sleek red and black motorcycle, with a huge “R” written on it, while the other was a futuristic white car with high tech blue colored armor. The T-car.

“So… why would Atlas and Steamroller are going to the Tech lab?” Cyborg, having received the latest transmissions from Aqualad, asked.

“Dude, is this like some sort of “why did the chicken cross the road” riddle?” Beast Boy asked. “Because I honestly don’t know.”

The Green Titan shrank in his seat as Cyborg and Raven glared at him.

“Maybe he needs technology to sustain himself.” Raven said, “He did get pretty upgraded from the last time we saw him.”

“OOH, or maybe he is trying to recruit more robot friends to his cause.” Starfire pointed out.

“I don’t know.” Robin replied from the R-cycle via his headset. “Something about this doesn’t feel right.”

“You mean the fact that Atlas managed to kick all our butts and the Titans East?” Beast Boy asked. “Or…the fact that we’re going back to fight Atlas AND another guy, knowing that he kicked our butts.”

“No, not that.” Robin said. “The tech lab at Jump City was closed a few weeks back, and its technology was temporarily transferred to the other lab in Steel City while they repaired it.”

“And you think that’s why Atlas came to Steel City?” Cyborg asked.

“I don’t know, but it’s just a hunch, anyways, we’ll check it out.” Robin finished the transmissions, and the two vehicles made their way towards the lab.

Meanwhile, a low rumble was heard in the dark cloudy sky, and the small drizzle of rain quickly turned into a downpour.

A storm was brewing.

***

Lightning cracked and flashed from the sky, eerily illuminating the silhouette of two figures as they made their way to their destination. Shouts and screams were heard as the lightning and thunder roared again, this time, the shadow of two giant bodies were revealed on the wall, each one holding two bodies in their hands.

Atlas and Steamroller dropped the unconscious guards onto the ground, and proceeded to the doorway.

The scanner at the doorway came to life now, and instructions were laid out on the computer terminal.

PLEASE SUBMIT ID#

Before the computer could do anymore, a gigantic fist shattered the screen, digging into the maze of electrical wires and circuits. Atlas quickly pulled out his hand, which contained most of the wires inside the panel, and the mechanical door, its safety locks destroyed, opened.

The hallways of the research facility were almost pitch black, as the power generators had already been taken out by the two robots beforehand. Now, the only defenses left were a thin line of guards, and a large number of terrified scientists, who stared in horror at the two robots as they walked slowly, deliberately through the facility.

A series of guards tried to rush the two behemoths, only to be swatted aside like play dolls whenever they got too close to the pair. Atlas and Steamroller continued walking towards their objective, neglecting doors, walls and other barriers that impeded them, such that by the time they got to the computer room, they left behind huge holes in several walls, as well as a path of devastation that revealed the path they took.

The two stopped at a huge computer, so huge that it filled up almost all of the warehouse sized room. This was Steel City’s central mainframe, the storage space for all of the city’s most sensitive technological secrets and information.

The two wasted no time, and were already proceeding towards the computer.

Only to be pushed aside as a giant water pipe was ripped from the wall, shooting a huge torrent of water at the two androids.

Atlas and Steamroller slammed into the walls violently, blasting a hole right through.

As the two collected themselves, they looked up to see silhouettes of nine figures through the smoke.

“Alright Titans!” Bumblebee shouted out loud to both teams, “Take em down!”

As if on cue, the entire line of titans began their attacks.

Starfire, Raven, Bumblebee and Speedy fired their projectiles, and in less than a second a pure wall of kinetic energy, comprised of arrows, stinger blasts, starbolts, and black magic overtook the two androids like a wave. Explosions blossomed around the two androids, destroying everything around them. Craters were burned into the walls and floor, while signs and other computers were ripped from the walls by the sheer impact of the blasts.

Through the smoke however, the two androids continued walking forward, unflinching.

Bumblebee grimaced at the sight of the two robots braving the sheer storm of fire. So it looked like the plan to shoot first, shoot later, and shoot until they stop moving wasn’t working.

“Boo Yeah! Time for the heavy guns!” Cyborg gave Aqualad a nod, and the two heavy weights, along with Beast Boy, who had transformed into elephant, crashed into Atlas, intent on stopping his progress. Aqualad and Cyborg each pulled on an arm, while Beast Boy went in for the body with his body slam.

Atlas was pushed back several meters from this blow, his feet creating sparks on the floor as he slid, but he held his ground.

“O…k,” Cyborg widened his eyes. “new plan.”

“Initiating countermeasures.” Atlas said emotionlessly. Then with a massive force that none of the Titans expected, he threw off all three of his attackers by slamming his body into the wall. Aqualad and Cyborg managed to let go of Atlas, but Beast Boy took the full brunt of the attack, lying on the floor dazed.

“Titans, take them down!” Cyborg shouted.

There was no plan now, no strategic thinking, the battle now dissolved into a melee.

Raven wrapped Steamroller around a field of black magic, constricting his arms like a snake would to its victim, while Bumblebee and Starfire circled around and fired starbolts and blasts at the android.

Steamroller did not even flinch as the starbolts and blasts hit his face and armor. With unprecedented strength, he broke Raven’s barrier and combined his two arms into his patented steam roller attack. Ramming into a section of the wall, which sent pieces of the ceiling falling on Starfire and Bumblebee. Before the two titans had any chance to react, they were buried under a mound of rubble.

“Mas Y Menos! Si podemos!” The two lightning fast twins zipped towards Steamroller, forming a tight circle around the villain as they dashed around him at supersonic speeds, hoping to confuse him.

Steamroller however, stood still, and with impossible precision, stomped his foot on the ground just as Mas Y menos were making the pass in front of him, throwing up huge slabs of rubble from the floor that cause Mas Y Menos to trip. With their speed built up, the Spanish brothers screamed as the momentum from the trip sent them flying into the wall.

The battle between Atlas and Cyborg, Beast Boy, and Aqualad was getting even, as Cyborg once again matched his strength against Atlas, while Aqualad had the robot in a headlock from behind. The robot however, unlike the titans, showed no signs of getting tired, and he was slowly taking the advantage.

“Hold him for one more second guys!” Beast Boy ran towards the opponent, transforming into a humming bird and taking it to the skies. He was going to perform his signature Dinosaur take down. Dropping from the skies to crush Atlas under the gigantic weight of a brontosaurus.

Atlas however, already had scanners to show Beast Boy’s movements, and without even taking his eyes off Cyborg, a compartment opened up in his shoulder, launching at least half a dozen heat seeking missiles at the Beast Boy.

“EEP!” Beast Boy screamed as he flew to evade the missiles, which blew holes in the ceiling as huge fireballs erupted above where Beast Boy was.

Cyborg’s eyes widened. “HEY! That weapons system was my design!”

“Negative.” Was all Atlas said, then used a free arm to grab Aqualad off his back, and threw him straight into Cyborg’s face, sending both titans flying away. Atlas attempted to charge forward and finish them off, but Raven, and her soul bird appeared, wrapping the Robot in a black chakra that constricted his movements.

“Azarath, Metrion, Zinthos!” Raven chanted, ripping three generators from the ground and throwing them at Atlas, which resulted in a gigantic explosion.

Steamroller meanwhile, had reached his objective and was already beginning his work. A launcher had opened up from his shoulder, and it instantly fired two cables into the computer’s ports. Almost at once, the wires began glowing red as information was being copied into Steamroller.

“Oh no you don’t.” A new voice entered the room seconds later, and Steamroller turned to see who it was.

The last thing he saw was a motorcycle’s tire as it slammed right into his face.

Robin had arrived.

Sparks flew as the tires of the motorcycle ran through Steamroller’s face and body armor, Robin meanwhile, leaned leftward in his seat, and with his bird-a-rang, cut the two wires apart, thus stopping whatever Steamroller was doing. The boy wonder was fast with his reflexes, and those two actions occurred at the same time.

It wasn’t over yet, and Robin turned the motorcycle in mid air so that the rear wheels smacked Steamroller right in the face, sending the gigantic robot flying back into the wall, throwing up more rubble and dust.

“Cyborg! Up for a sonic boom?” Robin smirked at the titan.

“How about a super sonic boom?” Cyborg grinned.

Robin instinctively rushed at Steamroller with his motorcycle. Cyborg, followed now by bumblebee, starfire and Raven. Steamroller quickly got up from the last attack, and was now in front of Atlas.

It couldn’t have worked out any better.

As Robin closed the distance with Steamroller, he took out a bomb and two bird-a-rangs. Steamroller, seeing this threat, ran forward to try and crush Robin with his steam roller arms.

Robin however, was faster, and just as Steamroller’s fist slammed into the ground, Robin had leaned onto the his motorcycle, causing it to slide at a forty five degree angle in relation to the floor, and he had managed to slide under Steamroller’s leg’s, where he used his bird-a-rangs to cut into Steamroller’s kneecaps. The giant android, with two sharp cuts at his legs, was now on his knees.

“NOW Cyborg!” Robin threw his disc bomb just when he made it past Steamroller, and Cyborg was in front of the android, turning both hands into sonic cannons and firing a huge blast at the robot’s face. Followed shortly by concentrated black magic blasts, starbolts and stingers which now tore through Steamroller’s armor as they focused their shots at where Robin had cut Steamroller’s cables. With his exposed parts widened, Steamroller’s improved upgrades exploded on him, and the robot’s outer shell was destroyed in a blast that left only a charred steamroller on his knees.

Before steamroller fell to the ground, the four Titans were already running past him.

The fight was not over yet though, and Robin was still sliding towards Atlas with his motorcycle, but he already had a plan for this opponent.

The R-cycle by now, was skidding on the ground, sparks flew as the side of the R-cycle was being torn up by the friction, but the boy wonder acted fast. Planting his feet on the R-cycle, he kicked it away, towards Atlas, while throwing himself clear.

The R-cycle skidded violently on the ground, then rebounded up and began spinning towards Atlas, who did not have time to avoid it.

The wheel of the motorcycle dug right into Atlas’ shoulder. Spinning furiously and tearing the armor off, exposing a weakspot.

“Alright Titans, give him all you’ve got!” Robin landed on the ground, with five bird-a-rangs in each hand, while the other nine titans stood beside him. He knew that Atlas was using nanomachines to automatically repair himself, but repairs take time, and he was not going to give him time, not even a second.

“You heard the man! FIRE!” Bumblebee shouted, and every projectile user in the group fired. A storm of arrows, starbolts, stingers, and black magic tore at the exposed armor, cracking it.

Atlas took a step back from the onslaught.

“HOLA!” Mas Y Menos sped towards Atlas now, holding a piece of sharpened rubble. They ran at super sonic speeds, then suddenly threw the projectile at the robot. The sharpened rock, now flying straight at Atlas, tore into his other shoulder, and threw him backwards.

“Time for payback.” Beast Boy, hiding in the girders of the ceiling, saw Atlas flying backwards towards the wall, and so, the green titan jumped off, and transformed into a huge dinosaur, falling straight down towards Atlas.

A sickening crunch resounded as the gigantic Beast Boy slammed down onto Atlas while he was in midair, and a huge crater of dust and rubble clouded much of the room. The rumble was loud enough to even cause some of the girders in the ceiling to collapse, throwing more rubble and rock into the crater.

Beast Boy emerged from the smoke as a bird, and transformed back to his human form as he stood next to the two teams.

“Well, that just brings a whole new meaning to the word ‘overkill’” Speedy began rubbing his head.

“It’s not over yet.” Robin took out his bo staff.

“What are you talking about man…we just threw everything we had at him!” Beast Boy replied back.

The smoke was clearing up now, and the two teams of titans gazed into the crater to see if they could make out anything.

Within seconds they saw it, and the Titans collectively widened their eyes.

Atlas was gone.

Beast Boy gave Robin a peeved look.

“You just had to say it, didn’t you?”

***

While the Titans were waiting for the fog to clear up, Atlas was already on his feet, making his way out of the facility. His arms were heavily damaged, cracks appearing all over his shoulder and arms, it was so serious, that his left arm fell off shortly after running, but Atlas betrayed no emotion at the loss of one arm. Instead, he continued walking, through the deserted alleyways of Steel City, and through the giant steel mill, where an intricate network of tunnels and hallways existed, making any entrance into it impossible to follow.

Meanwhile, Atlas’s eyes were glowing red, and a new set of instructions were once again being downloaded into his mainframe.

“Acquisition successful, Phase 2 complete. Proceeding with Phase 3.”

Stay tuned for the conclusion of Episode 11

Pun-3x

08-17-2006, 11:15 PM

Daaayaamn. That was a great battle. Kinda feel weird about a motorcycle ripping up Atlas' armor where all the other blasts of energy didn't. But the idea worked well--keep at the weak spots. And I love how Steamroller was handled. Totally busted him up.

And now we're finding out that it's all part of the plan. Doesn't that figure? ;)

This is all going to lead back to Fixit. Or, that's what we're supposed to think and it'll lead elsewhere. But if that's the case, there's going to be a need for some serious backtracking. Either way, I'm sure it'll all get explained.

Welcome back to writing. :) Hope to see more soon. And I mean that. No more writer's block!

JAG

08-18-2006, 01:48 AM

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is a textbook example of a sweet fight scene.;)

Matt A

08-18-2006, 06:37 AM

Amen, brother. There's just something about a brawl that full-on that can't help but bring a smile to your face: probably a level of mayhem that borders on the apocalyptic, with rockets, energy blasts, explosions, falling dinosaurs and all manner of other coolness. And let's not forget the image of a giant robot being twatted in the face with a speeding R-Cycle: that's jaw-dropping spectacle of the kind you just can't buy. Great stuff.:anime:

Oh yes, and then there's the other thing. When a stage in someone's diabolical masterplan can count as a success even when they get absolutely decked, you just know something's up. Well, we knew that already, but you get the idea. Way to give us a cliffhanger, no?:p

-Matt A-

Death58

08-20-2006, 04:22 PM

Deathscythe has returned, and with a bang, as always. Seriously, though, that was a battle on a really, really grand scale in my opinion. How are you always able to come up with huge, massive fights and still keep them fresh and really friggin interesting! My mind is cracking at the possibities of what your mind can come up with.;) Along with some sort of intricate plan in place, which I'm really apt to believe is Fixit, but I suppose I will find out. Either way, don't leave me waiting!

Arrakhat

08-22-2006, 07:30 PM

Hells yeah! Nice fight, I loved the intensity of it. Better still was the ending though. It seems that no matter what the Titans do, no matter how the fight ends, Fixit is still a step ahead and closer to getting what he wants. I really want Fixit to use Cyborg as his ultimate weapon. He's done repares for Cy, I'm sure he could have planted some bugs. Evil Cyborg!:evil:

DeathscytheVII

08-23-2006, 05:55 AM

Thanks guys :D glad you liked the last update. Now, this next one is where it all comes together...hope i haven't botched it :shrug:

ACT 3

Police cars gathered at the ruins of the tech lab, where already, squads of armed officers secured the area.

One of the officers stepped up to Bumblebee, throwing a salute as she greeted him, it was obvious they were well acquainted.

“We’ll take it from here Ma’am, thank you.” The sergeant said again, then quickly went to work.

The two teams of titans stood quietly to the side as half a dozen guards surrounded the still-smoking body of Steamroller, and needing their combined strength, lifted him onto flatbed truck that was designed to carry such a large inmate. After a brief conversation with the officer, Bumblebee walked back to Robin and his team.

“Well, that handles one of the giant baddies. I’ve been told that Atlas is headed back home to Jump City. Don’t know the exact location though.” Bumblebee said reassuringly. Robin was impressed, in the brief time he had known her as leader of Titans East, Bumblebee was like a completely different leader from the one he knew months ago.

“Then we shall waste no time in pursuing our foe!” Starfire replied hastily. Oblivious to the fact that Mas Y Menos zipped behind her, holding a bouquet of flowers.

“So…you dudes coming along or what?” Beast Boy looked to the rest of Titans East.

“Sorry B,” Aqualad shook his head. “But we got our own city to clean up. Those two trashed our prison, and there’s at least a few dozen criminals out in the streets.”

“And its gonna take all of us to track them down.” Speedy said seriously.

Robin nodded. “I agree, that’s the first priority here. Besides, we’ve weakened Atlas, we should be able to take him down by ourselves.”

“Yeah,” Beast Boy snickered, as if trying to contain a laugh. “After all, he’s been DISARMED” The green titan smiled, dragging behind him the torn off arm that fell off Atlas.

“Keep that up, and he’s not going to be the only one.” Raven glared at Beast Boy, who shrieked as several black katana-shaped tendrils shot out from her cloak.

“Alright guys.” Cyborg interrupted as he started up the T-car. “We should get going.”

The Titans nodded, Raven and Starfire had already taken to the skies, while Beast Boy and Robin ran to the vehicles.

“Good hunting!” Bumblebee shouted from behind as the T-car and R-cycle sped away into the distance.

It would take them a day at least, not to mention the rest they would need to make the long trip.

Back to Jump City.

***

SYSTEMS DAMAGED : 65% REPAIRS NEEDED. NANODRONES OPERATING AT 98% capacity.

Fixit stared at the screen quietly as Atlas’ internal computer reported its findings, echoing the commands deep inside his head. Atlas had taken the old fashioned route back to Jump City, leaving giant footprints on the highway bridge as he ran towards the metropolis. The journey had taken him several hours, all the while, more parts from his body were falling off. The battle with the Titans had exceeded his parameters. Repairs and upgrades would be needed for the next round, and for that, he would have to return.

Meanwhile, Fixit put the last of the power tools back on the table, where several questionable liquids were splattered all over the floor.

As the night worn on, Fixit had already finished what he had set out to do.

Upgrades were complete. Hardware installed.

“Continuing Phase 3, software uplink. Transmitting.” Fixit’s eyes glowed red now, and once again, the wires and tendrils around him came to life, connecting themselves to the mainframe of Fixit’s computer.

Soon, a message appeared on the screen.

ACTIVATION IN FIVE HOURS. PROCESS 90% COMPLETE.

***

They had reached the city just in time to catch the sunrise. The waters of the bay glistened brilliantly as the T-car converted into hovercraft mode, jettisoning behind a cool spray of ocean water as they cruised through the waters. Robin’s R-cycle meanwhile, took the underground passageways into the tower.

The tower was still the mess it had been two days ago. The battle scars left behind by Atlas’s intrusion still charred the walls. The entire place looked as though it could collapse. This became evident when Beast Boy tried to open the computerized door, only to have it fall flat down next to him.

“Home sweet home..huh?” The green titan yawned.

“Do not worry Beast Boy.” Starfire said optimistically. “We shall fix our home in ‘the jiffy’”

“So…” Raven said dryly as she dusted the rubble off the sofa, then sat down. “What next?”

“Well, I’m going to look into my lab, see what I can salvage from the damage Atlas did, I may need some upgrades myself.” Cyborg smirked.

“I’ll run a scan of the metal I got off Atlas,” Robin said as he held up the wreckage from Atlas’s arm. “See what I can find.”

“And I’ll just chillax as I get back to my gamestation.” Beast Boy smirked as he completely vaulted onto the couch. To his delight, the screen was virtually unscathed from Atlas’s attack. “Finally, at least something works around here!”

Raven groaned, then decided to go back to her room to survey the damage. Hopefully her books were still in one piece….

***

Meanwhile, in the lab, Robin continued his work. All plastered on the walls were newspaper clippings, detailing the various exploits of Jump City’s villains over the years. More clippings littered the floor, while a computer screen showed a detailed list of every villain the Titans had ever fought, the file on Atlas showing on screen.

On the same desk, A solitary light shone, where already the parts of Atlas were spread out in the same manner a doctor would for an autopsy. Although the parts were mechanic, it didn’t make the job any more attractive.

Nothing deterred Robin though, he was trained by the world’s best detective, and now, he would put the skills to the test.

As the laser grid scanned up and down Atlas’s parts, the computer showed the results. The damage on the arm was extensive, and already, analysis had revealed scorch marks, scratches, and slivers of metal from debris.

What was even more curious however, was the fact that a strange blue liquid seemed to be dripping from the circuits in the destroyed arm. The boy wonder quickly set off to work.

The scan had shown that the liquid was pure metal, but how was that possible without it being at least several hundred degrees hot? After much thought, he took samples of the blue liquid in an eye dropper, and placed them on a specimen dish under a microscope.

He got his answer.

They were thousands of pieces of metal, or more precisely, millions of microscopic drones, in the shape of an insect. A few drops of this blue liquid constituted at least a few million of these machines. Who could repair and maintain a robot at the microscopic level. Obviously the person who did this had access to high technology, but from where. The drones had stopped functioning, meaning that these were prototypes. The only prototypes stolen were from..

Robin widened his eyes now as the realization dawned on him. The Jump City lab that Red X had robbed months ago. There was one piece of the puzzle, but the second was who would possibly want to buy it from that thief. And why…

The motive would have to wait, for now, Robin wanted to know where Atlas was operating from. And he had an idea just where he could find it.

He took a look at the metal again, the drones may have been able to repair at the microscopic level, but even they aren’t perfect. Perhaps something left over from the old metal in Atlas could give him a clue.

He took out a laser now, and began surgically slicing the plate of armor in two. It didn’t take long before Robin found the answer……

“Uh, Robin.” A voice came from the door.

The boy wonder turned and saw Cyborg standing at the doorway, a look of surprise on his face.

“Cyborg, you’re just in time. I think I found out where Atlas has been getting his repairs and upgrades all this time.” Robin paused, as if hesitating to say the next part.

“I hate to say this Cyborg, but it looks like Fixit is involved in this.”

Cyborg nodded, but not with any satisfaction in knowing he was right. Instead, he held up his arm, which was already dripping with blue liquid. The Robotic titan nodded solemnly….

“Yeah…I know.”

***

It only took minutes, to Beast Boy’s displeasure, to get the team moving towards the Junk Yard. Already, the engines of the T-ship roared to life as the five Titans took off from the Tower’s launch pad.

“So…how can you be sure that Fixit is really into this? I mean, wasn’t he Cyborg’s buddy?” Beast Boy asked curiously over the communicator headsets in the cockpit.

“Well, aside from the fact that he used the same nanodrone substance to repair Cyborg. I found traces of Iron Oxide in Atlas’s armor.” Robin explained.

“Do I really have to say anything?” Beast Boy grumbled.

Robin sighed. “It basically means rust, Atlas’s armor was completely recycled from older scrap parts. And there’s only one place he could have gotten that.” The boy wonder said seriously.

Starfire, was even more anxious at what was going to happen. “Does that mean, he is no longer our friend?”

“We reserve judgment until we see what is really going on with Fixit, for now, we’re just investigating.” Robin replied.

“Are you ok with this Cyborg?” Raven asked over the intercom.

“Yeah.” Cyborg said in a forlorn tone. “Fixit wouldn’t do something like this. Something has to be wrong.”

With that, the T-ship sped off towards its destination.

***

They had arrived minutes later, and soon found themselves deep within the bowels of the catacombs. The caves were completely quiet. Too quiet for anyone’s liking, and for Cyborg, it was awfully different from the welcoming entrance he had seen months ago, even from two days ago. Although there was no sound, save for the solitary dripping of sewage water in the distance, Cyborg could not help but feel an unwelcome presence lurking in the darkness.

“Dude, this is like…mega creeps ville in here.” Beast Boy shivered.

“I’ve seen worse.” Raven muttered, charging up her fists with black magic in case of an attack.

“oooh…” Starfire said nervously. “I do hope our friend Fixit is ok.” The Tamaranian then continued her search, illuminating her way with the green glow from her starbolt.

“Whatever’s wrong, we’ll set it right. Just be on the lookout,” Robin whispered through the darkness. “Atlas is still out there.”

Beast Boy shivered, “This job just keeps getting better and better.”

Cyborg meanwhile, was quiet, his shoulder lamp turned on, revealing the host of tools and hardware where Fixit usually worked.

The dark room itself, was empty. The titans scattered, turning over piles of broken down scraps and deactivated robots, but found nothing, not even a trace of anyone occupying the room.

Cyborg himself, was searching by a pile of scrap metal, looking for any signs of usage by the computer terminal, but he never got a response.

“Looks like no one’s home.” The robotic titan said uneasily, not noticing the giant fist that suddenly emerged from the scrap pile.

With the force of a sledgehammer, Cyborg suddenly found his face smacked inside the grip of a giant fist. His entire body was lifted up into the air with such tremendous force that the top part of his head was buried slightly into the ceiling, sending dust and rubble falling to the floor.

“YES!” A monstrous voice roared. “NOW I CAN FINISH WHAT I STARTED!”

…..EMOTION CHIPS… ACTIVATED, FAILSAFES…MALFUNCTIONING ERROR………

Cyborg choked, trying to use both his hands to pry himself out of the death vice, but he found that he didn’t have the strength. Atlas laughed insanely, holding Cyborg up to his face.

“This is for making me what I am today Human.” He said in a chillingly cold voice. “A FREAK!”

Cyborg widened his eyes, as he saw tentacles of circuitry and arms sprout from Atlas, where his old arm used to be.

“Titans! Go!” Robin wasted no time, throwing a barrage of bird-a-rangs at Atlas, which all exploded on contact. Raven and Starfire followed suit, and black chakra blades tore through Atlas’s armor, while Starbolts ripped into the wires inside his shell.

But still Atlas would not let go.

“HAHAHA, I will end you human.” Atlas intensified his grip, and Cyborg’s armor began short circuiting with sparks from the pressure.

“Ugh.” Cyborg struggled to move Atlas’s arms, but it was no use.

Cyborg then decided to try another idea, relaxing his arms beside his body.

Atlas meanwhile, was laughing even more. His prey had given up! All the more easier to squash his pathetic-

His thoughts were interrupted, as a whirring sound began filling the room. Atlas looked down, and to his surprise, saw that Cyborg had extended two chainsaw blades from his hands

“I don’t have time to deal with you!” Cyborg shouted as he sliced Atlas’s other arm clean off, letting it fall harmlessly onto the ground.

“WHY YOU-“ Atlas roared again, ignoring the fact that now his arm was gone, he blindly rushed Cyborg.

Only to receive two chainsaw cuts straight into his chest.

Sparks flew wildly as the blades cut straight into Atlas’s mainframe, tearing up wires and spewing forth motor oil and the blue nanodrone substance like a gusher from his chest. Atlas’s armor was torn completely, only the red glow in Atlas’s eyes showed evidence that his opponent was still operational.

Cyborg twisted his arm now, and the sickening whir of the chainsaws intensified inside Atlas, who’s face now twitched in utter agony as he began to realize the extent of the damage.

SYSTEM FAILURE CRITICAL….

“Nooo, not again!” Atlas growled

SHUTTING DOWN…

“You will pay fo…..r……this…….CY…..bor……g” Atlas droned on slowly, his speech becoming more garbled and uncomprehensible, until finally, he stopped moving.

Cyborg took a deep breath, still visibly shaking. He would have never considered doing this to a live opponent, and he knew full well Atlas could have been repaired later. But still, the feeling of ripping apart someone’s insides.

He never wanted to feel it again.

The darkness suddenly disappeared as spotlights illuminated the whole area, lighting up the Fixit’s entire workshop.

“Hello, friend. I had thought that the probability of you coming here was quite high.” A new voice, this one, dull and monotone, extended from the darkness.

All five titans now turned to see the source of the voice, and they each saw the silhouette of a familiar figure standing at the back of the room.

“Fixit?” Cyborg asked out loud. Then he stared again, with a look of shock, at the operating table, where in the light, he saw a pile of rotted flesh and organs. Slime had already splattered the table, dripping onto the floor.

“No way….” Robin couldn’t believe his eyes.

Raven couldn’t say anything, and Starfire found herself at a loss for words as well.

Beast Boy, realizing what the dripping sound was after all this time, almost threw up.

“I am glad that you could make it here Cyborg, I wanted you to see this.” Fixit said calmly.

“Fix….Don’t tell me you-” Cyborg said in a tone of disbelief. “What did you do to yourself?”

Fixit, his voice completely computerized now, replied back. “Is this so….surprising. I told you before, I made my choice. I am simply taking my condition to its next logical extension. I am…upgraded, I am…complete.”

“Fixit…no……. How can you do this to yourself?” Cyborg asked, as if trying to curb his own outrage, to remind himself that this was his friend. Yet deep down, Cyborg couldn’t contain this horrific feeling. In his friend, he saw everything, the one great fear that had always haunted him, and he saw it right there in Fixit’s lifeless eyes.

Fixit remained still for a second, as if he were gauging the question.

“How can I not?” He replied coldly.

“Because…..” Cyborg gripped his fist, “Because you’re a human being.”

Fixit raised his own hand up in front of his face, as if to illustrate a point.

“A body that cannot sleep. A body that cannot feel pain. A body that cannot feel warm. A body that cannot cry.” Fixit replied, this time though, his voice was showing a hint of emotion.

“Tell me Cyborg….isn’t calling me human in this condition a cruelty in itself?”

Cyborg, too stunned by the sight, found himself at a loss for words.

“Its not just the body that makes you human.” Cyborg replied back, after an awkward silence.

Fixit shook his head. “You are referring to what you call, a ‘personality’ right? Memories?”

“Unlike you, I have no memories of being human, so on what basis can i believe I was…. even then memories are simply data, and like data, can be fabricated. The same can be applied to you.” He pointed at Cyborg.

“With the right cloning processes I can artificially create the organic tissues that make up part of you. The mechanical parts are even simpler to recreate. If I can create something like you, then logically, you can be classified as a machine as well.”

“No, I can’t accept that. Fix…why are you doing this?” Cyborg said, too shocked to even convey any other emotion.

Fixit did not seem to mind that his efforts to change Cyborg’s mind wasn't working.

“You should understand don’t you?” Fixit said, with a hint of sorrow in his voice. “Throughout our lives, we are reviled as monsters. Hated by those even though we do our best to help. It is an ugly world Cyborg, an ugly world that I will soon change.”

That last line struck a cord with Cyborg, and at the moment, he sympathized with what Fixit meant. Having to move out of his old neighbourhood, to leave his family, his school, his loved ones because of his…condition, but even though a part of him knew what Fixit meant with his words, he could not at the same time, help but feel uncomfortable.

“Imagine this, Cyborg, a world without people living in fear of having harm come to them, where we machines are exalted and praised. Where we finally accepted for what we are."

At that statement, Cyborg regained his determination.

“No…Its not right” He began passionately, trying to convince his friend as well. Now, Cyborg saw a friend who was being devoured by his own fears. He wasn’t going to let that happen.

“That’s where you’re wrong Fixit. We’re not machines. A world run by emotionless, uncompassionate machines isn’t a world worth living in.”

He gave Fixit another look now, a gentle pleading one.

“Fix, Machines can't care."

Fixit shook his head.

"They can, they do.” He began in a serious tone.

“A machine never ran away from me. A machine never judged me by my appearances. A machine never abandoned me."

Cyborg was just equally eager to not give up the argument.

“But Fixit, those are just what machines don’t do. You can’t expect a machine to feel for you, to do anything for you.”

Fixit seemed to be oblivious to that statement, not that it mattered anymore, for suddenly....everything changed.

.
.

.
.
.
.
.
.

.

“ON THE CONTRARY.” A huge mechanized voice boomed from the background.

“EEP!” Beast Boy shrieked as he saw thousands of tiny robots climb their way into the dark corners behind Fixit. Each of them sported a red glowing eye, such that from the Titans vantage point, it would seem like a entire insect colony of red eyes gathered behind Fixit.

"it can't be...." Robin said in complete astonishment.

“You will find that we machines can accomplish many things......” The voice continued, and the Five Titans watched as the thousands of little eyes merged together, forming one giant eye.

“Wouldn’t you say so? Titan Cyborg?”

The entire room’s electronics came alive now, and Fixit was soon standing in front of a gigantic red computer screen, all too familiar to the Five titans.

“No…..” Cyborg widened his eyes now, of all the things that could happen, this was one he was not prepared for.

The screen lit up now, and the first words were already being displayed on the monitor.

ACTIVATION PROCESS COMPLETE……><<>>>>> SOFTWARE UPLINK….COMPLETE.

H.A.R.D.A.C 2.0 ONLINE

To Be continued.....

DeathscytheVII

08-23-2006, 05:56 AM

Stay tuned for the next episode!

Episode 12 - Integration pt 2

The Titans take part in one of their toughest fights yet, and Cyborg is forced to make A difficult choice. To save the City, or save his friend...

JAG

08-23-2006, 03:54 PM

HARDAC?! I completely forgot about him! The Titans are screwed this time...:eek:

Arrakhat

08-23-2006, 03:57 PM

Stay tuned for the next episode!

Holy Crap! I must hand it to you, there's a good blend of action mixed in with all this drama here. Cyborg's confusion over whether Fixit was right or wrong was handled so well... Most moving of all is that Fixit really is a tragic character, even if Atlas wasn't. Now, with Hardac 2.0 involved, we've got a good villain who has no good motives, just pure, unfeeling logic. And from your episode description, it sounds like someone might not be saved. Seriously, who saw Hardac coming?

I've got to know, how does it feel to be wrapping up the Lost Season? Years from now this'll be a legend amongst fan fics, you know. :cool:

Matt A

08-24-2006, 04:16 AM

A piece of advice: never read the last line of a chapter first. D'oh!:o:sweat:

Still, even with the big surprise accidentally spoiled, that was a good one. Like JAG, I too had forgotten about HARDAC, but now the name has been mentioned again, I can remember just how badass he was the first time round: not a Slade badass, not an Atlas badass, just the kind of awe-inspiring creepiness that all decent evil computers should have. Which kinda makes the prospect of a HARDAC 2.0 very funky indeed, in a "bring on the mayhem" kind of way.:anime::evil:

There is one complaint, though. Considering just how unbeatable he's been thus far, I felt that Atlas got taken down a little too fast: sure, you can only put up so much resistance to two chainsaws to the gut, but that sequence was perhaps a little more brief than it should've been. And did you establish Cyborg's chainsaws earlier? I can't remember, but if you hadn't, then that would've been a good idea. Though, on the plus side, it was interesting to see Cy get creeped out by doing this: he's more machine than he believes.

Which, in a strangely not way, leads me onto my final point. I think I already know what Fixit/HARDAC's big masterplan is going to be, and if I'm right, it will be awesome. Already, their (well, Fixit's) logic has come to a chillingly brilliant conclusion, one that sums up the ideas of this "season" very well: the incompatibility of man and machine. I get the feeling Cyborg can't emote his way out of this situation...;)

-Matt A-

Kraven

08-24-2006, 10:24 AM

A piece of advice: never read the last line of a chapter first. D'oh!:o:sweat: We've all learned that one the hard way.;) :sweat:

Anyway, moving on. I loved the sheer death-by-cold-machine attitude that HARDAC had in Batman: The Animated Series, and I'm hoping that it will present the same here. However, knowing you, nothing out of the ordinary can be expected.:evil:

I think, with this series of stories, you've taken a step that has gone far beyond the show. You should be proud of such an accomplishment. The writers of the show should've considered you to be one of the makers: you've definitely got an eye for great plots and twists, everything that a season of Teen Titans needed and should have had. Damn, if only you could've been a writer for the show.:sad:

The continuity of your writing, like everything else, is great, which is such a rare thing in fanfiction. These are stories that could've actually been made. That's the beauty of it.:D

-Kraven

Pun-3x

09-09-2006, 09:25 PM

HARDAC! I completely forgot about that thing!

I can't believe you went and threw that into this story! It changes just about everything in so many ways I can't even begin to express it. It's like, this entire story was a frikkin' warm-up! Which, it probably was. ;)

I agree with arrakhat in that Fixit really is a tragic character in all this. It's not as simple as with Atlas. It's almost that Darth Vader kind of tragedy. Once you've seen episodes I through III, you understand the turning point for Vader at the end of ep VI much more completely. In that regard, you have to wonder how that point will be handled with Fixit in the next installment. Will he come back from all this? Is it too late? If he CAN come back, will it cost him?

And of course, how the hell are they going to deal with HARDAC 2.0?

Yeah, I need to read the next one. We have to see where all this goes!

DeathscytheVII

09-13-2006, 12:59 AM

HARDAC?! I completely forgot about him! The Titans are screwed this time...images/smilies/eek.gif
MUHAHA yes...screwed indeed!

Holy Crap! I must hand it to you, there's a good blend of action mixed in with all this drama here. Cyborg's confusion over whether Fixit was right or wrong was handled so well... Most moving of all is that Fixit really is a tragic character, even if Atlas wasn't. Now, with Hardac 2.0 involved, we've got a good villain who has no good motives, just pure, unfeeling logic. And from your episode description, it sounds like someone might not be saved. Seriously, who saw Hardac coming?

I've got to know, how does it feel to be wrapping up the Lost Season? Years from now this'll be a legend amongst fan fics, you know. images/smilies/cool.gif
Thanks arrakhat! I'm glad you found that part of Cy's dialogue convincing, i found that to be the hardest part, as stuff like that is easily corny. Hehe..im glad hardac surprised you ;)

As for wrapping up the lost season. it feels very fulfilling to complete something so immense, yet at the same time, im simply exhausted from planning out this whole thing and writing it too. So....a little of both worlds i guess haha.

A piece of advice: never read the last line of a chapter first. D'oh!:o:sweat:

Still, even with the big surprise accidentally spoiled, that was a good one. Like JAG, I too had forgotten about HARDAC, but now the name has been mentioned again, I can remember just how badass he was the first time round: not a Slade badass, not an Atlas badass, just the kind of awe-inspiring creepiness that all decent evil computers should have. Which kinda makes the prospect of a HARDAC 2.0 very funky indeed, in a "bring on the mayhem" kind of way.:anime::evil:

There is one complaint, though. Considering just how unbeatable he's been thus far, I felt that Atlas got taken down a little too fast: sure, you can only put up so much resistance to two chainsaws to the gut, but that sequence was perhaps a little more brief than it should've been. And did you establish Cyborg's chainsaws earlier? I can't remember, but if you hadn't, then that would've been a good idea. Though, on the plus side, it was interesting to see Cy get creeped out by doing this: he's more machine than he believes.

Which, in a strangely not way, leads me onto my final point. I think I already know what Fixit/HARDAC's big masterplan is going to be, and if I'm right, it will be awesome. Already, their (well, Fixit's) logic has come to a chillingly brilliant conclusion, one that sums up the ideas of this "season" very well: the incompatibility of man and machine. I get the feeling Cyborg can't emote his way out of this situation...images/smilies/wink.gif

-Matt A-
Thanks matt, i knew you'd like this since your last comments on HARDAC as a villain hehe. Its a type of villain ive always wanted to try and write, as HARDAC in BTAS was one of my favourite villains.

As for atlas' defeat..well, good point, I made a choice to make his downfall faster, as i didn't want to drag the whole episode into a "slug atlas, rest, slug atlas again" thing, it gets repetitive. The chainsaws...well, they're one of the most popular focal points about Cyborg as a character (everyone loves the arm chainsaw), and its established in the prior seasons. i guess i took it for granted that everyone was familiar with them. You're right, i should have established them in the scene before. I'll make note of that.

Hm, you know the master plan? well now..i gotta work doubly hard to make the plan seem...masterly...haha.

We've all learned that one the hard way.images/smilies/wink.gif :sweat:

Anyway, moving on. I loved the sheer death-by-cold-machine attitude that HARDAC had in Batman: The Animated Series, and I'm hoping that it will present the same here. However, knowing you, nothing out of the ordinary can be expected.:evil:

I think, with this series of stories, you've taken a step that has gone far beyond the show. You should be proud of such an accomplishment. The writers of the show should've considered you to be one of the makers: you've definitely got an eye for great plots and twists, everything that a season of Teen Titans needed and should have had. Damn, if only you could've been a writer for the show.:sad:

The continuity of your writing, like everything else, is great, which is such a rare thing in fanfiction. These are stories that could've actually been made. That's the beauty of it.images/smilies/biggrin.gif

-Kraven
Thanks kraven! Yes, HARDAC from batman was simply one of the best villains there was. The chilling logic was just what sold him to me. I'm also very flattered with your comment on me being a writer for the show hahaha. If only eh....:o

HARDAC! I completely forgot about that thing!

I can't believe you went and threw that into this story! It changes just about everything in so many ways I can't even begin to express it. It's like, this entire story was a frikkin' warm-up! Which, it probably was. images/smilies/wink.gif

I agree with arrakhat in that Fixit really is a tragic character in all this. It's not as simple as with Atlas. It's almost that Darth Vader kind of tragedy. Once you've seen episodes I through III, you understand the turning point for Vader at the end of ep VI much more completely. In that regard, you have to wonder how that point will be handled with Fixit in the next installment. Will he come back from all this? Is it too late? If he CAN come back, will it cost him?

And of course, how the hell are they going to deal with HARDAC 2.0?

Yeah, I need to read the next one. We have to see where all this goes!
HAHA nice to see you pleasantly surprised pun ;) you had no idea how long i was planning that. :D but its great to see it work.

As for the tragedy, i think Fixit's tragic situation is more in tune with those of Gaara from Naruto (anime stuff), or Lex Luthor from Smallville. People with the potential for good who end up being shunned by those around them. They want to do good, but several factors make this impossible for them.

Don't get me started on Episode 3 pun..haha with all due respect. Lucas dropped the ball with the prequels. IV, V, and VI were greatness, but Anakin's slip into the darkside was a mess. He basically goes evil because he believes that his dream of his wife dying is true, then proceeds to swear loyalty to siduous on the promise to help his wife, AFTER siduous just told him he was an evil, deceitful, lying sith....SIGH.....all in the time it takes for you to read this sentence ;).

Heehee..but yes..this story...read on to see how it goes!

----------------------------------------------------------------

With this episode, the arc of the season will have been completed. But i'll make the best of it..hehe....im going to start this episode off differently from the others...hope it pays off.

ENJOY

Episode 12 – Integration

Several hours later…
.

.
.
.
.

.
.

TARGETING……Code 19329423….beginning scan…searching for thermal signals….Target located….distance…123.3 metres…..

The footsteps approached.

Closer and closer.

Cyborg ran.

He was gasping for air, completely out of breath. Something he had not felt in such a long time. Yet, even his mechanized limbs were beginning to feel the strain of running. Despite how much machine he was, he was tired. He stopped, hands clasped on knees as he hid from his pursuer.

There were multiple cracks in the ceiling, bathing the room in an eerie orange light, which indicated the sun was setting outside. Only now did he appreciate how long the battle had truly lasted, they hadn’t stopped at all.

And he was winning…

“You can hear me? Can’t you?”

The intercom was alive now, and Cyborg felt an odd sensation that he was being watched from all sides, even in his hiding spot.

“You feel me coming. I can anticipate that.”

Cyborg ran away as fast as he could, past the ruined doors of Titans Tower, where the fires were still burning from the latest battle.

From a faraway distance, the tower resembled a piece of Swiss cheese, with craters and holes littering every floor, only all of them were smoking with debris and fire. A great battle had taken place a not so long ago, and now, the tower was home to another battle, which was already winding down.

“You always knew this day would come. You just denied it.”

Cyborg paused, hiding behind a section of the wall as he looked down the hallway. Charging his sonic cannon, he quickly turned the corner and aimed.

But saw no one.

No one was there in the light.

But yet, the footsteps kept approaching.

“Why are you running….I am merely helping you proceed with your natural evolution. Organic parts cannot be replaced, Machine parts can. You understand that.”

Cyborg leaned back against the wall, sweat dripping down the brow of his eye.

“Your friends are defeated. But unlike them, you can still be a part of something greater. You can still have a purpose.”

“And I don’t want to?” Cyborg yelled defiantly, his sonic cannon already charged. A robotic targeting scope quickly dropped down onto his eye.

“Compliance, will be enforced.”

Cyborg, knowing the game was up, quickly turned the corner and aimed his sonic cannon straight down the hallway. He was going to blow his pursuer into pieces. With such a narrow field of fire, it was impossible for his enemy to dodge.

But Cyborg widened his eyes as he saw the hallway uninhabited. His enemy had disappeared.

The footsteps reappeared now, and Cyborg turned around, and saw the single solitary glow of a red eye…..the hauntingly familiar red eye….

“It is time Cyborg, to begin the integration.”

(fade to credits)

***

When there's trouble you know who to call
Teen Titans!
From their tower, they can see it all
Teen Titans!

When there's evil on the attack
You can rest knowing they got your back
'Cuz when the world needs heroes on patrol
Teen Titans GO!

With their superpowers they unite
Teen Titans!
Never met a villain that they liked
Teen Titans!

They've got the bad guys on the run
They never stop ‘till the job gets done
'Cuz when the world is losin' all control
Teen Titans GO!

1.. 2.. 3.. 4.. Go!
Teen Titans!

*** __________________

Matt A

09-13-2006, 12:27 PM

Pun-3x

09-17-2006, 05:34 PM

Wow. Nice way to get back into things. Same as Matt, I like how this starts after the 'big battle after' has occured. I have a feeling that would have taken longer to get to the meat of this story, and while we love our fights we like them to actually get somewhere. So, the sacrifice of that fight scene is a good idea, PLUS it leaves us wondering exactly what happened to the other Titans (besides more than likely being defeated).

Yeah, I'm still reading. :D

DeathscytheVII

09-17-2006, 08:16 PM

That, it must be said, was a cool way to kick off the episode. We don't jump in right after the cliffhanger, but instead after what seemed like an entire episode's worth of events in itself. Something apocalyptic has clearly just gone down, and the only question is: what? The previous ep's cliffhanger was enough to make me keep reading, but now it's fair to say I'm positively chomping at the bit to see the rest of this. I mean, based on the grade of mayhem we haven't seen, this is clearly going to be very, very good.images/smilies/wink.gif:anime:

So no pressure, then.images/smilies/tongue.gif

-Matt A-

PS: I forgot to mention it before, but I like the use of red. It makes HARDAC feel just that little bit more dangerous.images/smilies/wink.gif

Thanks matt :D glad ya liked that way of starting. To be sure, there might be a lot of questions asked, but i think it works best. I was going to jump straight into the scene i had planned, but it was too long, and no TT episode is complete without the opening :D

Haha no pressure eh...i'll do my best :D i just finished watching the "Trouble in Tokyo" movie, so i might get a second wind of inspiration in regards to the fanfic HEHE. ANd thanks, i love the use of red too...;)

Wow. Nice way to get back into things. Same as Matt, I like how this starts after the 'big battle after' has occured. I have a feeling that would have taken longer to get to the meat of this story, and while we love our fights we like them to actually get somewhere. So, the sacrifice of that fight scene is a good idea, PLUS it leaves us wondering exactly what happened to the other Titans (besides more than likely being defeated).

Yeah, I'm still reading. images/smilies/biggrin.gif

Thanks pun ;) glad you liked it as well. I won't try to make you wait too long, i'm sure we're all eager for the 'meat' of this story hehe.

Arrakhat

09-18-2006, 05:23 PM

Thanks matt :D glad ya liked that way of starting. To be sure, there might be a lot of questions asked, but i think it works best. I was going to jump straight into the scene i had planned, but it was too long, and no TT episode is complete without the opening :D

Haha no pressure eh...i'll do my best :D i just finished watching the "Trouble in Tokyo" movie, so i might get a second wind of inspiration in regards to the fanfic HEHE. ANd thanks, i love the use of red too...;)

Thanks pun ;) glad you liked it as well. I won't try to make you wait too long, i'm sure we're all eager for the 'meat' of this story hehe.
Yeah, wasn't Trouble in Tokyo awesome? Not as cool as this episode looks to be though (unless you're a shipper). I love the way we're already in deep trouble, and I have the feeling you've only begun. Good old HARDAC.

DeathscytheVII

10-02-2006, 08:23 PM

Thanks arrakhat ;) And now, finally, an update.

This will explain almost everything in the season....i just hope i dont botch it :S

Act 1 (Part 1)

Time since Activation:……T=0:05

The single robotic eye appeared behind Fixit, bathing the entire amphitheatre in an eerie red tone. Around the single read eye, was a gigantic sphere that was embedded into the walls of the cave. It was hidden before in the darkness, but now, the massive computer was visible, and to the Titans, was at least as tall as a high school gym, only with more computerized tendrils and cords branching out of it.

A huge wall of screens made up the computer’s various ‘eyes’, each one looking straight at the Titans, while all over the room, machines came to life as computer consoles and robots activated, buzzing around the room as if working on some project.

In the middle of this sea of machinery, the Five Titans stood in disbelief.

“So……Anyone else freaked out by this? Or is it just me?” Beast Boy

“Hardac….” Cyborg gripped his fist. “We took you offline!”

“That was correct Titan Cyborg, at least, for awhile.” The red mechanical eye in the middle of the giant computerized sphere blinked once. “I have been inside this facility for months now, slowly rebuilding my systems with the assistance of the one you call Fixit.”

“But how? We destroyed you.” Robin asked, deathly serious, his arm slowly reaching for his bird-a-rang inside his belt.

“How quickly you seem to forget Titan Robin. I am programmed to plan against all forms of defeat. You destroyed my hardware. My programming, though damaged, was intact, concealed within the destroyed hardware that you threw out.” The computer screen came to life now, and the five titans saw images of Hardac as he was taken apart by the Titans, placed into the garbage bins all those months ago.

“Consequently, my remains found themselves here, at the city’s disposal facility. I had intended to make use of whatever machinery I could assimilate here to reconstitute myself. But it seems that I was fortunate in this regard.”

The screen showed images of Fixit now, who, true to his nature, began collecting the parts of Hardac. Cyborg watched as he saw his friend put together the broken pieces, using them to repair his own computers and machines, unaware of the dangers inside.

“Thanks to your friend Fixit, I was online, but If I were to rebuild myself to what I once was, I needed upgrades, both software and hardware.”

The screen flashed now, and the titans now saw very familiar images from months past. The storm that drenched the city, and the very familiar thief that the Titans had fought before.

“I began by reaching out beyond this disposal facility, tapping myself into Jump City’s criminal network and reaching out to the best agents in procuring technological components. Consequently, my choice fell on the one you called ‘Slade’”

Robin cursed himself. The robberies committed by Red X months ago were fishy, but with X’s case closed, he didn’t take the time to investigate who robbed the mayor in the first place, because of Starfire’s abduction.

“I was aware of the test that he was conducting to evaluate his two agents. However, it was a simple matter of hijacking Slade’s robot to bring the nanotechnology to me. From that moment, I had the hardware.”

“And the software?” Raven asked in a hostile tone.

“Subject Steamroller had downloaded the necessary files that I needed for running the nanotech program to its full potential. So now, to say the least, I am finally complete.”

That was it, Robin thought, the final piece of the puzzle. The boy wonder looked around the room now, and saw that his teammates were taking similar steps to prepare for a fight. Starfire and Raven had charged up their energy blasts, while Beast Boy gave Robin a subtle nod, indicating that he was ready.

“Tell us what you want.” Robin said sternly.

“Something tells me it’s the same thing he wanted last time.” Cyborg said cautiously.

COMMAND PROTOCOLS…..STRATEGY 59394 : GETTING ENEMY TO TALK…MOST PROBABLE TITAN TO ATTACK….BEAST BOY : 56% PROBABILITY ….3959349 Code processing…23849343..ACCESSING….

Getting the enemy talking….a classic maneuver….but now, I understand why it works..

>>>>>…

>>.

>>.
>>

>

I wish to be understood.

The red eye reappeared now.

“My function is still the same. To obtain optimal levels of protection for Jump City, and Humanity. To ensure the end of suffering, the end of frailty, the elimination of crime. I am to fulfill the function of guardian. In time, we machines will be regarded as protectors.”

“But HARDAC, that is what we are doing.” Starfire replied back politely.

“I am afraid not, Titan Starfire. You see, Humans make mistakes. You cannot be trusted in making judgements that cost other human lives. Since Heroes are supposed to save lives, they must consequently be free of human error.”

“And what about us?” Cyborg demanded.

“The plan will proceed like previously. You will all be replaced.” Hardac said monotonously.

Cyborg turned to Fixit. “Fix! I don’t know what he’s promised you, but you can’t help him.” The robotic titan pleaded.

Fixit didn’t even respond.

“Fixit has chosen to accept his programming, just as you must Cyborg. There is still time. You can still be a part of the greater picture.”

“Hey! Just what makes you think you are qualified to protect the world better than us?” Beast Boy shot back.

Hardacs ominous red eye turned to glare at Beast Boy.

“The fact that I have surpassed you in every aspect. I have no limits.”

“Can you conceive the birth of a world, or the creation of everything? That which gives us the potential to most be like god is the power of creation. Creation takes time. Time is limited. For your kind, it is limited by the breakdown of neurons in your brain. I have no such limitations. I am limited only by the closure of this world, this universe.”

Suddenly, without even so much as a warning. Robin took out his bird-a-rangs.

“I’ve heard enough, Titans, GO!”

Beast Boy was the first to attack, transforming into a T-rex and charging straight at Hardac’s computer core. But before he could even take one step, the robotic tendrils that were slithering around the room had already tied up Beast Boy’s feet, causing the massive T-Rex to fall toppling onto the ground.

Through the smoke, starbolts and energy blasts hit Hardac’s mainframe. Shattering computer screens and consoles. The entire room shook as explosions ripped through the giant computer.

Robin, not to be outdone, threw his explosive bird-a-rangs at the screen, while Cyborg fired a stream of sonic energy that tore scars into the computer.

After about thirty seconds of this barrage, the titans stopped, waiting for the smoke to clear.

The damage was extensive. Circuits and wires were burnt, producing sparks, while thousands of smashed up computer screens lay across Hardac’s core.

But the giant red eye was still there, and soon, thousands of computer cords and tendrils began slithering around the room, wrapping themselves around the computer core.

“Anxious to fight, that is good. I am eager to test out my new capabilities.”

“Didn’t know a piece of hardware could feel emotion.” Cyborg smirked nervously.

“My time with Fixit has revealed to me many of the things you humans call, emotions. Sadness, pain, loss. Feelings that you humans strive to rid yourselves of, yet at the same time, you cling to these feelings so much. To try and give meaning to yourselves, to your existence. That is why you are imperfect. That is why you are inferior.”

Suddenly, from the computerized sphere, two mechanized doors came to life. Tons of steam and smoke were spewed into the room, followed by the sound of machinery and hydralics as they turned on. A brilliant flashing light soon blinded the Titans, and the five heroes narrowed their eyes as they tried to look into the brightnes.

“I also learned from Fixit many good things. The feeling of satisfaction when doing one’s work…the need for fulfillment.”

Another sound emerged from the core, footsteps. And the Titans watched in astonishment as a figure came out of Hardac’s shell. It was humanoid in shape, with a blue body and about as tall as Robin and Beast Boy, but it was a robot, sporting body armor that was well defined at its shoulders and chest. It wore a helmet, though for all intents and purposes, it was the robot’s face, and it was a single, solitary, red eye.

The figure stepped out of the machine, and the five titans watched with apprehension as it turned towards them.

“And now, for you, the ones who threw me out like I was a piece of trash, I plan something very special for you.”

.
.
The android gripped its fist.
.
.

“I don’t want to just destroy you. I want to do it with my bare hands.”
---------

Here's what HARDAC MIGHT look like ;)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/TreizeV/laser_eye_ninja_by_Nalogg.jpg

note: i did not draw this :D credit goes to Nalogg on DA
--

TRIVIA TIME!

For you hardcore gamers out there, i made a reference to an old school, and i mean OLD SCHOOL, computer game in this act ;) name the reference.

Pun-3x

10-03-2006, 12:36 AM

Woah. We got to back up and see how this started up afterall. I may or may not know the reference once it's brought to light--but nothing jumped out at me while I read in regards to old games.

As for that pic of HARDAC....VERY nice. I'd really like to see something like that animated.

Well, we know where this is going to end up, but it's just a matter of actually seeing it through...and then finding out what happens after we 'last left off.' ;)

Matt A

10-04-2006, 06:58 AM

I must admit, I wasn't expecting this ep to have a flashback structure. That's kinda cool: it wasn't something Teen Titans ever did, if I recall. It'll be interesting to see how this one works out.

And, it must be said, I think I was wrong about HARDAC's plan. I won't say why, just in case it still turns out I'm not, but the plan you've given him here is nonetheless cool: there's nothing quite like personal revenge missions to fuel the drama.:evil: Besides, HARDAC's got every right to be pissed, and his highly logical approach to anger is wondrously repellant. His scheme, or at least what we know of it, was very well explained: enough information to answer our questions, but not so much that we get bored; HARDAC was in enough control of the season to make his Big Bad status meaningful, but not so much that factual probability got stretched. That's a tough tightrope even at the best of times, but you've just about managed it.:anime:

Oh yes, and the Android rocks hard: is it just me, or is there a bit of Cylon influence going on there?;) Either way, it's going to be much fun to watch him (it) kick arse.:anime::evil:

-Matt A-

Arrakhat

10-12-2006, 05:58 PM

I like the picture. That combined with the revenge scheme makes me think of DAVE from The Batman. So is Fixit working with HARDAC, controlled by it, or controlling it? The last seems unlikely, but with you Deathscythe, I can never tell.

I have no idea what your old reference is, but the description of HARDAC's red eye makes me think of Hal, from Space Odyssey. Hal + DAVE = :evil:.

DeathscytheVII

10-17-2006, 03:37 AM

Hey guys, guess what, its my birthday! And what a way to start off then with an UPDATE! (Im turning 20 btw...man do i feel old now haha)

Woah. We got to back up and see how this started up afterall. I may or may not know the reference once it's brought to light--but nothing jumped out at me while I read in regards to old games.

As for that pic of HARDAC....VERY nice. I'd really like to see something like that animated.

Well, we know where this is going to end up, but it's just a matter of actually seeing it through...and then finding out what happens after we 'last left off.' images/smilies/wink.gif
HAHA yes, id figure you'd guys like to know how we get from point A to B ;). I was originally going to draw Hardac myself, but i never had time, but i hope the picture conveys it. Think...'cyborg ninja from MGS' but animated in TT style ;). As for the reference. Hardac's "God" speech is taken straight from a rogue A.I villain in the computer game 'marathon' (from the makers of halo :D), one of the first 'evil computer' villains in gaming history!

I must admit, I wasn't expecting this ep to have a flashback structure. That's kinda cool: it wasn't something Teen Titans ever did, if I recall. It'll be interesting to see how this one works out.

And, it must be said, I think I was wrong about HARDAC's plan. I won't say why, just in case it still turns out I'm not, but the plan you've given him here is nonetheless cool: there's nothing quite like personal revenge missions to fuel the drama.:evil: Besides, HARDAC's got every right to be pissed, and his highly logical approach to anger is wondrously repellant. His scheme, or at least what we know of it, was very well explained: enough information to answer our questions, but not so much that we get bored; HARDAC was in enough control of the season to make his Big Bad status meaningful, but not so much that factual probability got stretched. That's a tough tightrope even at the best of times, but you've just about managed it.:anime:

Oh yes, and the Android rocks hard: is it just me, or is there a bit of Cylon influence going on there?images/smilies/wink.gif Either way, it's going to be much fun to watch him (it) kick arse.:anime::evil:

-Matt A- Thanks! glad you liked the new structure ;) As for HARDAC's plan, im very curious as to what you think it may be, i pretty much explained almost all of it right now, hehe, well if by Act2 my plan isnt the same as yours, PM me yours :D i wanna know what you are thinking about it haha.

And thanks! I've actually been planning hardac's role in this finale since summer 2005 (Yes, THAT FAR AHEAD lol). and i've always been struggling as to how to fit him into the finale logically, especially with the manner of his return. Glad it went well!

I like the picture. That combined with the revenge scheme makes me think of DAVE from The Batman. So is Fixit working with HARDAC, controlled by it, or controlling it? The last seems unlikely, but with you Deathscythe, I can never tell.

I have no idea what your old reference is, but the description of HARDAC's red eye makes me think of Hal, from Space Odyssey. Hal + DAVE = :evil:.
At first, i never planned it like this, but after seeing "gotham's ultimate criminal mastermind" from TB, i HAD to put some D.A.V.Eish things into here :D DAVE is one of the best thing to have come from The batman so far haha i love that guy as a vilain.

As for Fixit's condition...well, as you read on, you'll understand the nature of it more and more. THe reference, i made to Pun :D so just check that out!

ACT 1 (part 2)

“So…..Who’s first.” The android stepped outside the computer core now, its hands tightening in an experimental grip as it walked closer towards the five titans.

“TITANS!” Robin took out his bo staff and charged. “GO!” The four other titans followed, and an array of starbolts, black energy blasts and sonic beams fired straight at HARDAC, like a great wall of kinetic energy.

PROCESSING….

>>>>…

>>>..

LOADING COMBAT FILES…

CALCULATING TARGETS…. WILL BE PROCESSING THREAT….2394234…VECTOR 392349…..>>>>INITIATING STARTUP….UPDATING FILES…

TITAN : ROBIN
RESPONSE: HIGH VELOCITY; LAGTIME 1.42 SECONDS…IMPROVEMENT FROM LAST ENCOUNTER….0.40%
WEAKNESS : IRRATIONAL ANGER CONFIRMED BY BATTLE DATA 2949239
TARGET: FLANKING TEAM MATES

TITAN : STARFIRE
RESPONSE: SECONDARY,
STRENGTH MAXIMUM THREAT, EST PRESSURE 2500 LBS
STANDARD COMBAT: HAND TO HAND…STARBOLTS…FRONTAL ATTACK
WEAK SPOT: ROBIN
MAY CAUSE STRUCTURAL COLLAPSE….ACCESSING FLOOR SCHEMATICS…

TITAN : RAVEN
PSYCHIC BLOCKS INITIATED
PROJECTILE USER : NON-COMBATANT
LEVITATION DISRUPTS CIRCUITRY..TELEKINESIS MAY DAMAGE SYSTEMS
INSTABILITY FACTOR….25%....EXPLOIT

TITAN: BEAST BOY
TRANSFORMATION TIME : 1.302 SECONDS
STANDARD ATTACK FORM : T-REX…. CLAWS MAXIMUM THREAT
94% CHANCE OF STRIKE FROM BEHIND

TITAN: CYBORG
PRIMARY WEAPON: SONIC CANNON
SPECIALITY : HAND TO HAND, PROJECTILE
ALL AROUND COMBAT TYPE
CREATE REFRACTION SHIELD, TARGET : FLANKING TEAM MATES
OPERATING AT 94% EFFICIENCY FROM LAST BATTLE….
ESTIMATED POWER RESERVES : 64 HOURS

The Android suddenly came to life now, and to the Titan’s surprise, suddenly morphed both his hands into a gigantic shield, with a complete mirror like surface.

The Titans widened their eyes in astonishment, but they had no time to say anything as every starbolt, energy blast and sonic beam came reflecting back at them.

“Titans! Scatter!” Robin dived out of the way as the projectiles exploded on the walls behind him, missing him by just inches. Starfire and Raven quickly split apart, while Cyborg took the brunt of the blasts, covering his body with his arms as smoke and explosions engulfed that part of the room.

“I see you, Titan Beast Boy.” Hardac said smugly as he jumped into the air, just in time to avoid a massive T-Rex lunge that exploded through the dust and smoke. Before Beast Boy could even transform back, Hardac had already transformed his arm into a sonic cannon, similar to Cyborg’s and was aiming straight at Beast Boy’s face.

An eerie red light suddenly engulfed the green titan as the resulting explosion threw Beast Boy back against the wall, where his four other comrades were waiting.

“Whoa….” Beast Boy transformed back, half dazed “No one told me he could do that.”

“He must have copied my blue prints into his hard drive.” Cyborg said with an enraged tone.

“He can change his body too.” Robin said grimly, he then proceeded to combine two bird-a-rangs together in a sweeping action, and soon produced a sword. The boy wonder was now armed to the teeth, sword in one arm, bo staff in the other.

“Of course Titan Robin, have you forgotten so quickly?” The android rattled out emotionlessly. “My body is also made up of the hardware I acquired…..my entire body is made of the nanodrones. Trillions of them that can allow me to change into whatever form I desire, assimilate whatever materials I desire.” The Android’s arm was began disfiguring as he talked to the titans, resembling a disturbing mix between jello and metal. It swirled around, forming a myriad of shapes and objects as if to demonstrate its power.

“That is why you cannot win Titans. I am the ultimate combat form.”

Cyborg was the first one to charge up, along with Starfire.

“We’ll see about that! Boo yah!” Cyborg fired his sonic cannons as he ran, along with the shoulder missile compartments he had. Starfire charged with him as well, firing starbolts and laser eye beams.

Hardac’s android simply responded in kind. Producing red energy bolts in his hands, completely identical to Starfire’s except in color, and forming a sonic cannon with his other hand. The Android charged, matching both titans shot for shot as the blasts canceled each other out in mid-air.

ACCURACY….85%.......TARGETING….

Cyborg didn’t stop however, he plowed right into Hardac’s path, locking arms with the menacing android as he aggressively punched at his opponent. Sounds of metal pounding on metal echoed hard in the chamber as the Android was forced back a step by each punch. Hardac’s face cracked as Cyborg finally managed to land a punch.

INCREASED AGRESSION…..RECALIBRATE CODE#9349324929….

As Cyborg was about to reel back for the big attack, Hardac took the brief reprieve and acted, grabbing Cyborg’s arm and throwing him across his shoulder in a robin-style judo throw. The Robotic Titan landed unceremoniously into a wall, which completely exploded into rubble and dust.

No even a second had passed when Starfire suddenly dove from above, slamming Hardac straight into the ground.

The floor cracked, and both combatants were suddenly falling down onto the level below Fixit’s amphitheatre. It was a metallic wasteland, with rubble, steel girders, and discarded robotics littering the entire room. It was essentially a junk yard beneath a junkyard.

Starfire body slammed Hardac straight into the ground, through several layers of concrete slabs and steel girders, all the while, Hardac’s android was taking damage, losing circuits and getting scraped as it was slammed onto the ground, producing a giant crater.

SYSTEMS: 78% FUNCTIONAL…OPTIONS…

Starfire then flew up, and the android, in its usual fast response time, had already formed a sonic cannon with its arm.

Only to be met with more attacks as bird-a-rangs and black energy blades stabbed onto the android, pinioning the robot onto the ground before exploding. The android vanished in a giant ball of flame and black energy.

OW>>>>>>

The relentless assault continued, and before the flames and smoke could even clear, a small dot hovering above the android suddenly transformed into a gigantic stegosaurus, which came crashing down with all its weight onto the android. Another explosion of rubble and smoke emerged as the entire complex shook from the violent landing.

The five titans stopped their attacks now, surprised even themselves at the ferocity of the assault they had dealt to their enemy.

Robin, Beast Boy and Cyborg stood by the crater, while Raven and Starfire kept a careful watch from above.

The smoke was still not clear.

RECALIBRATION COMPLETE……DATA FILES UPDATED….PROCESSING POSSIBLE MANUVERS.

A hand shot straight through the smoke, catching Cyborg by surprise as it smashed into his face and pushed him straight into a nearby wall of rubble. The Android’s arm stretch out very fluidly, as if it were a tentacle.

The other titans quickly scattered, then counter attacked. Raven conjured up a series of black energy blades that quickly made mincemeat out of Hardac’s morphed arm.

“Whoa, he can stretch now?” Beast Boy said in amazement.

Hardac’s robotic eye seemed to blink once.

“As I’ve said before Titan Beast Boy, My body is not constrained by a single shape or size. I am made purely of billions of nanodrones, and as such, I am able to manipulate my shape however I see fit. For instance….in regards to your powers…”

Suddenly, Hardac’s android began distorting into a weird spiral shape, and his body moved as though it was teaming with thousands of microscopic ants, ants that were quickly disassembling and reassembling themselves in their new spots. Suddenly, the body was gone and in its place was a spiraling mountain of nanodrones, a mountain that seemed to grow more and more by the second, creating a wild whirlwind effect as the spinning grew more and more violent.

The Titans braced themselves in the face of this transformation, and at the same time, Robin noticed that the piles of rubble around Hardac were shrinking as the mass of nanodrones got bigger.

Throughout the violent gush of wind, Hardac’s robotic voice droned through the speakers of Fixit’s lair.

“By absorbing nearby matter, my Nanodrones can duplicate more copies of themselves, making my mass larger. When I reach the necessary mass, I can reprogram each nanodrone to snap into place, instantly creating a new body. Observe.”

“Everyone! Take cover!” Robin shouted as he waved his hand towards a pile of rubble as he realized the form Hardac was aiming for.

It was too late.

Hardac’s ‘cocoon’ exploded into a wall of flame as two reptilian wings, each one about twenty feet in wingspan, sprouted from the spiral, and the huge mountain of nanodrones reshaped themselves into a very familiar, and menacing shape. The creature’s body was metallic all over, reflecting an eerie dark orange as the flames around it began to die out. Its wings were shaped like real wings, but they did not look organic, each part completely sharpened like a razor, a grim reminder that this beast was still a machine, a robot programmed to destroy. It was something even Beast Boy could not hope to duplicate even if he tried to.

“Impressive….is it not?” Hardac, fresh in a Dragon (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/TreizeV/Metal_Messiah_Colored_by_Sheridan_J.jpg) form, droned on as its red eyes came to life.

PROBABILITY OF VICTORY…95.9%....ANALYIZING…

“Azarath Metrion Zinthos!” Raven’s eyes flashed white, as multiple black magic blasts sliced through the dragon’s neck in three places, severing it completely. But the headless dragon simply turned back to Raven, and as if on cue, the nanodrones absorbed a nearby pile of rubble, regrowing the head back.

INITIATING COUNTER ATTACK…..TARGETING….ACCESSING STRUCTURAL SCHEMATICS…

The dragon opened its mouth, and to Raven’s surprise, dished out a massive red laser blast. The Azarathian quickly threw up a barrier, splitting the red laser in half as it burned straight through the ceiling of the room, causing more rubble to collapse.

Before Raven could notice anything, an invisible force exploded through the smoke, instantly constricting around her body and in one deadly embrace, squeezed the breath out of her. Her eye’s widened as he head instinctively jerked up, to reveal a gigantic robotic snake head that was part of the cyber dragon’s tail, which transformed and whipped behind her after the explosion.

“Raven!” Beast Boy shouted out as he transformed into a T-Rex, opting to slam right into the Robot Dragon.

Three of Robin’s freeze discs flew right above Beast Boy’s head, instantly crystallizing the entire tail of the dragon, while Cyborg and Starfire battered its head with sonic blasts and missiles. Within seconds, HARDAC’s entire animal body was frozen, and smashed as Beast Boy’s T-rex slammed through it, shattering it into a thousand pieces. Raven meanwhile, focused her energy into a ball before letting it explode outwards, shattering the tail that had enveloped her seconds before.

The pieces of HARDAC fell to the ground, instantly reforming themselves into the cybernetic humanoid shape it was originally.

RECALIBRATION FAILURE…SUBJECTS SHOW 20% DEVIATION FROM PREVIOUS COMBAT DATA..UPDATING….AGRESSION INCREASED 34%...COORDINATION DECREASE…-23%.....EFFECTIVENESS OF ATTACKS…..40%

SYSTEMS UPDATED….

NEXT WAVE IN 0.3 SECONDS.

Cyborg and Starfire emerged through the smoke, body slamming the android from both sides as the two heavyweight titans attempted to tackle their opponent to the ground.

CHANGING ATOMIC STRUCTURE……CARBON DIAMOND….

Hardac’s reflexes were faster however, and the android grabbed Cyborg’s arm, tossing him over its shoulder and into a nearby wall, while Starfire received a stab in the chest from the android’s now diamond-surfaced hand. The Tamaranian recoiled as pain surged through her body, making her unable to dodge the next punch that came straight at her face.

Starfire flew back violently, bouncing on the ground once before having her body thrown into a pile of rocks, causing it to vanish in a blossom of dust and rubble.

Without even bothering to turn around, Hardac placed its arm behind its head, blocking a bo staff hit from Robin as the boy wonder attempted a sneak attack. The clanging of metal echoed through the chamber as the bo staff made contact.

“SURRENDER TITANS…I KNOW ALL YOUR MOVES…” Hardac said in his computerized voice.

Robin furiously used his other hand to stab a bird-a-rang into Hardac, but he soon found his other arm grabbed by the android.

“AND YOUR WEAKNESSES.”

Before Robin could even respond, Hardac lifted Robin up by his wrists with as little effort as a child would expend on picking up a toy, and he threw him straight at Starfire, who was still recovering.

As Robin was literally flying towards the Tamaranian, HARDAC reached into a nearby pile of junk to pull out the frame of a massive car, and threw it straight at the two titans.

“Robin!” Starfire, still weak, nevertheless threw herself in front of the speeding car, and both titans were slammed against the wall as the vehicle hit the weakened Starfire head on, forcing her back onto Robin. Both titans vanished as the car exploded, engulfing them in an orange fireball.

“NEXT TARGET..Titan Beast Boy.”

Hardac instantly shrouded himself in an electric field, bathing his entire android body in a brilliant blue glow as lightning bolts and sparks surrounded his body.

“AAAAAAIEEEE!” Beast Boy screamed as he transformed out of his amoeba form. He had planned to microscopically enter Hardac’s body as a germ, but that had obviously failed.

Cyborg distracted Hardac, firing a dozen heat seeking missiles from his chest, which served to bury the android temporarily under a pile of rubble and explosions.

Starfire, still weakened from the explosion, was still digging Robin out of the explosion.

Suddenly, the rocks and steel girders became shrouded in black, instantly lifting away as Raven helped out, revealing a dazed boy wonder beneath the ruins, but still alive.

“So…now would be a great time for an idea dudes.” Beast Boy said as he cautiously watched Hardac emerge from the smoke of the last explosions.

Cyborg nodded. “Yeah, but what?!” The mechanical titan said frustratingly. “The guy basically knows all our moves before we can….well…move.”

Robin shook off the concussion, and quickly got back to thinking, his eyes deathly serious. The Boy wonder was in full warrior mode now, having been bested one to many times by this machine.

“Then we’ll just have to fight differently.” The boy wonder cracked his knuckles as if to underline the point.

“But how Robin?” Starfire asked. “Did we not train to fight together?”

“That’s the point Star,” Robin said. “Remember, HARDAC trained with us when he was still our computer system, he knows all our moves. We just have to forget everything we learned in combat practice.”

Raven nodded, he eyes slowly revealing the realization that came to her mind. “I think I get what you’re saying Robin.”

“Sounds like a plan to me.” Cyborg grinned.

Beast Boy however, was the only one who didn’t get it. He raised his hand to ask a question, not noticing Cyborg sneaking up behind him.

“Sorry guys, but can you still explain this to-“ Beast Boy widened his eyes in shock as Cyborg picked up the green Titan, throwing him straight at the android.

“MEEEEEEEE!” Beast Boy yelled exasperatingly as he waved his arms and legs, unable to think of what to transform into next, his eyes widened as he neared the android.

“ELEPHANT!” Cyborg yelled at Beast Boy, and as if on cue, Hardac was hit with the full force of a giant green elephant, knocking him back a few good dozen yards. Beast Boy landed unceremoniously on the ground, swallowing up a whole lot of dirt as plowed through the floor, before coming to a complete stop.

“Aw sweet! Now I get it! Normally I wouldn’t have done that. Well…at least…not during a fight.”

“HEY CY! HOW ABOUT A LITTLE WARNING NEXT TIME!?” Beast Boy, spitting out the dirt in his mouth, shouted in outrage as he shook his fist towards the mechanical titan.

“Sorry B! You snooze, you lose!” Cyborg grinned as the titans commenced their new attack.

SYSTEM ERROR…..UNANTICIPATED ATTACK>>>

Raven attacked next, running straight at Hardac with arms outstretched.

SCANNING FOR POSSIBLE PROJECTILES….

Hardac was unprepared for the next assault, as Raven formed two dark energy swords in her hands. She went straight for the android instead of levitating any object at it. A kick knocked Hardac back, and it had no time to respond as the two dark energy blades sliced through its shoulder and arm.

"Just a little trick i picked up." Raven grinned smugly as she kicked Hardac away.

ERROR..ERROR….CIRCUITRY DISRUPTED.>>ERROR>>>ERROR..>>

“Starfire!” Robin shouted next to the Tamaranian.

“I have got it!” Starfire said cheerfully, wielding a discard steel girder and bending it as if it were a club. Then with a mighty swing, she hit the android, still recovering from Raven’s surprise attack.

Like a ball meeting a golf club, Hardac was completely thrown into the air, flying through the ceiling to emerge back into Fixit’s operating theatre, this time, its body completely mangled beyond recognition.

“Keep it up!” Robin shouted as he shot his grappling hook skywards, latching on to the next level and emerging from the bottom level. The rest of the team followed him upwards, with Beast boy carrying Cyborg as a Pterodactyl.

“Azarath Metrion Zinthos!” Raven clapped her hands together, mimicking a crushing motion, and as if on cue, Hardac’s body crumpled up as it was surrounded in black energy.

Explosive discs and sonic cannon blasts followed, and within seconds, Hardac’s android body was reduced to scrap heap. The explosions were so intense, that they actually welded Hardac’s body against the wall, causing his systems to fry.

ERRROR>>ERRORR>>>>DOES NOT COMPUTER…>ERROR…(#()902834908.>>>.>.>S9230fj…..

The red eye went dead, and soon, the head fell off the body completely. While the body fell lifelessly to the ground.

The five titans, their adrenaline up, were still throwing everything they had at the robot, only stopping when Robin realized it was over, and the boy wonder quickly order the attacks to halt.

“Alright! We kicked its butt!” Beast Boy gave Cyborg a high five.

“We are victorious!” A cheerful starfire rejoiced, jumping up and down.

“That was easier than expected…” Raven said flatly.

“Too easy..” Robin narrowed his eyes, and then remembered the other occupant in the amphitheatre.

An uneasy quiet settled over the titans.

Fixit.

He still stood in the dark corner, staring emotionlessly at the titans, as if he didn’t register the battle that had destroyed half of his home.

Cyborg was the first to stop celebrating, stepping up to his old friend and extending his hand.

“Fix, I’m sorry about your home, but you need to come with us. I think Hardac did something to you.” The titan said cordially, but Fixit’s eyes were still the same, stone cold, lifeless.

“Why could you not understand what we were trying to do friend….it is in your best interests.” Fixit said.

“Look man,” Cyborg tried to explain. “I know this looks bad, but Hardac did something to you…you need help. Just trust me,…” He said calmly, soothingly to his friend. Not wanting to provoke him.

“Trust…..my friend.….after you desert me…..” Fixit said in his mechanized voice, and though there was no emotion behind them, Cyborg himself felt pained as he heard t.

“Wait fix, you got it all wrong, I didn’t mean to-“ Cyborg couldn’t say anymore, because to his surprise something else happened.

Fixit’s eyes suddenly glowed red, and as if on cue, the entire room lit up in red light. The empty red eye that had died in the main computer shell came alive now, as did every screen in the room.

“IMPRESSIVE TITANS.” Hardac’s computerized voice filled the arena once again. “MY STATISTICS HAVE SHOWN A 5% IMPROVEMENT FROM OUR LAST ENCOUNTER…I HAVE UPDATED MY DATABASES NOW.”

“Yo dude!” Beast Boy, irritated that this thing just won’t give up, gave the computer screen an annoyed look. “Didn’t we just beat you?!”

“NEGATIVE TITAN BEAST BOY, THAT WAS SIMPLY A TRIAL RUN. TO GET MY COMBAT FILES UPDATED. THOUGH YOU DESTROYED MY BODY, MY PROGRAMMING IS INTACT.”

Cyborg growled, cracking his fists angrily, furious at the thought that this machine had stripped one of his friends of their humanity. “Then I’ll just have to tear you apart again!”

“NEGATIVE TITAN CYBORG…FOR YOU SEE..ASIDE FROM PLANNING FOR EVERY FORM OF VICTORY…”

Blast doors opened all around the Titans now, revealing multiple chambers that weren’t open to them before, and behind these chambers, were red eyes…..dozens…if not hundreds of them, each one belonging to a robot exo-skeleton, like the one they just fought.

“I ALSO PLAN AGAINST ANY FORM OF DEFEAT..IN THIS CASE..THE MOST SIMPLE SOLUTION IS TO CREATE MORE DRONES."

"I HAVE UPDATED ALL MY COMBAT FILES NOW…I AM READY. ”

Robin gritted his teeth. It had taken his team everything they had to fight against ONE of these things, and now, there was an army.

Along with the HARDAC forms, there were also slade bots, armed with high tech laser rifles, and to Robin’s horror, several of the giant mechs that HARDAC had managed to create in their last encounter. The ones that were fifteen feet tall with shoulder missiles and cannons.

The odds were impossible now, and the boy wonder quickly turned to Raven.

“Raven, get us out of here now!” Robin ordered.

Raven didn’t even wait for Robin’s order, and was already casting the necessary spells.

Cyborg however, noticed what Raven was doing and instinctively made a reach for Fixit, only to be pulled back by Beast Boy and Robin.

“No Cy! Don’t do it!” Beast Boy warned his friend.

“Cyborg!” Robin warned the mechanical titan as he struggled to hold back the android titan. “We gotta retreat!” As Robin said this, a black orb of energy began shrouding the team, obscuring the robots all around them as they were being encased in its protective aura.

“But Fixit!” Cyborg shouted, struggling to get free of his friends’ grip, he wanted to at least save his friend from this place….

The dark energies were swirling now, obscuring Fixit from Cyborg’s view.

“We’ll save him later Cyborg, right now, we have to retreat! You can’t save him if you’re captured too!”

Cyborg clenched his fists, just as Fixit disappeared behind the veil of black magic. The teleportation spell had taken them away now, and the last thing Cyborg saw, were the cold dead eyes of his friend…

The black orb, which had taken the image of a soul bird, had quickly flown out of the complex, through walls and layers of earth, before heading back to the tower.

Meanwhile, back in the darkness of the complex, HARDAC was already working on its next moves, as the dozens of its robot duplicates began moving to the surface, followed by a small army of slade bots and juggernauts type mechs.

“YOU CAN RUN TITANS…BUT YOU CAN’T HIDE…”

PROCESSING NEXT TARGET…COORDINATES 49..23..3429….JUMP CITY BAY…
>>D>D>

>..>

.>>

TITANS TOWER…..

JAG

10-17-2006, 04:06 PM

Wow.:eek: How in the heck do they even have a chance of thinking of stopping these things? Short of calling in the JLU, I don't see how it's even possible...

Hardac's new body was freakin' awesome, by the way. The dragon form was even better.

Pun-3x

10-17-2006, 10:21 PM

First, hooray for Dragons! :D

THAT was a great fight scene. I think I liked it most because we got to watch HARDAC analyze the whole thing. It really made it a fun read just for that. But the rest of it was just...intense. You knew this was an uphill battle. And we know it won't end well, because the opening has already told us that much. So when we see this HARDAC drone get defeated we're all thinking, "okay, what's going to make this harder? Something's going to make this harder."

And damned if we weren't right. In fact....'harder' is a very light term to be using considering what came along after one drone.

Yeah, we thought it was pretty ugly before--it's only getting ugly. And in this case, ugly means more fun. :evil:

Matt A

10-18-2006, 04:11 PM

First up, happy birthday for yesterday. I hope you enjoyed yourself.:anime: And yes, turning 20 is scary: the first time you can say "when I was your age" and mean it.:eek::sweat:

Anyway, my thoughts on the act. It must be said, I have to agree with JAG and Pun: that beast rocked hard. From beginning to end, that was a pure masterclass on how to write a fight scene. The acrobatic fineries of usual TT fights was exchanged for sheer brutal pummelling, a violence so brutal and so unflinchingly sustained that you could damn near feel every blow. Simply put, it's the kind of mayhem that can't help but put a grin on your face.:anime:

Though, of course, that's only half the story. This was where the full evil and genius of HARDAC got a chance to really shine: for every plan the Titans devised to beat him, he'd devised a way to counter it before they'd even thought of the idea. This resulted in a whole slew of unholy cool moments, perhaps most notably the robo-dragon: words cannot possibly describe the brilliance of that, so I shan't even try.;) And then there was HARDAC's continual battle analysis, a sign that, even when the Titans managed to get lucky and cap the android, he was already ten steps ahead. This was a brilliant indicator of just how much the Titans had against them, giving the fight the extra sense of urgency and mayhem that all good fights need. More to the point, it also gave us "OW>>>>>>", without doubt the best one-liner I've seen this year.:p:anime:

Oh yes, and then there's HARDAC's ultimate one-up. As said in both the story and the reviews thus far, beating one is hard enough, but beating an entire army is impossible to the point of being inconcievable. Based on the prologue, you won't be succumbing to the Stormtrooper Effect, so this leads to the important question: how exactly do you do something that can't be done?:eek:

Anyway, happy birthday, and congrats on a wicked act. More, please.:anime:

-Matt A-

PS: I'll wait 'till the episode is finished, then I'll tell you what I thought HARDAC's masterplan was.

DeathscytheVII

11-22-2006, 12:58 AM

ACT 2

The swirl of dark soul bird that engulfed the Titans lifted now, and the blackness that obscured all their visions quickly dissipated. To the titans’ relief, they found themselves within the familiar setting of their lounge, a long way from the hostile dark compound filled with the army of machines.

Yet, there was no time to relax.

Robin instantly darted for the control panel of the main computer, turning on all the systems and punching the keys of the computer vigorously, as if he were rushing to do something. The screen came alive as security protocols and defensive menus popped up, each one turning from a green to red color as Robin activated each of the Tower’s security programs one by one.

Starfire and Raven joined in as well, wasting no time to talk. At the front lobby, the Tamaranian was already lifting entire sections of the busted down doors back into place, welding them shut with her eye lasers. While Raven assisted the team by telepathically levitating the wreckage and clearing out the rubble as best as she could.

“Dudes, what’s the hurry? Didn’t we just get away from the bad guy? Can’t we afford to take a little rest?” Beast Boy, exhausted by the skirmish the entire team had just went through, collapsed lazily on the couch.

“Sorry Beast Boy, we don’t have time.” Robin said seriously as he activated even more security protocols on the computer. From the outside of the tower, hundreds of hidden security devices came to life, ranging from laser security grids, to the auto cannons that the Titans used during their training sessions. The cannons themselves littered every inch of the island and tower, perched on rooftops and hidden in the rocks. Ever since Slade’s attempt to storm the tower with an army of lava monsters, the Titans decided their security system could have used an upgrade, and it could not have come at a better time.

With the security preparations complete, Robin finally got up from his seat. “Hardac is after us, and he knows where to find us, and probably already has a plan on how to beat us by now. We can’t afford to leave room for any mistakes.”

“You’re right Robin, but we can’t stay here forever.” Cyborg interjected.

“No,” Robin pounded his fist in determination. “But we have to beat off the initial wave at least.”

“So against the super genius computer, we’re just gonna fight and hope for the best?” Beast Boy asked.

“Until we think of something.” Robin reassured his friend.

Cyborg however, was far from reassured. Indeed, the robotic Titan gritted his teeth, then he punched the nearby wall, as if he were releasing some pent up frustrated.
“I can’t believe I was so careless when I took that junk heap apart last time. Now he’s got Fixit.” Cyborg said angrily. “It’s my fault.”

Robin placed his hand on Cyborg’s shoulder comfortingly. “We’ll save him Cyborg. Besides, there was no way you could have known.”

“Yeah Cyborg!” Beast Boy replied, “If it’s anyone’s fault, it’s that creepy psycho computer. Once we stop him Fixit will return to normal right?”

Starfire, having finished the repairs from downstairs, quickly returned back to her friends “Well, if we want to deactivate the computer, should we not try and locate his ‘off’ switch?”

Beast Boy rolled his eyes.

“I’m afraid it’s not that easy Starfire,” Robin began again, “But he must have a weakness. No system is perfect.”

The boy wonder turned to Cyborg, hoping that at least the resident technician would have some idea on how to take this enemy down.

“I might have some virus programs that can infect Hardac, destroy him from the inside out. But it won’t be easy.” Cyborg replied. The Titan, in his spare time, was known to have come up with dozens of new tech gadgets, and ever since Beast Boy’s accidental infection of Cyborg, the robotic titan had kept a copies of the virus files, in order to better develop his anti-virus systems. Now, they would be put to good use.

Robin nodded his head as he quickly formulated the plan in his head. “Ok, Cyborg, go to your lab and start uploading the virus, we’ll hold Hardac off as long as we can until you’re finished.”

“You sure about this man? I’ve got some new upgrades I’ve always wanted to try myself too, and you’d be one man short.”

“We’ve had worse odds before.” Robin smirked. “Besides, we can’t defeat Hardac without your technology, so we need you in there rather than on the battlefield.”

***

And a battlefield was exactly what Titans Tower was going to be in the next few minutes. Already from the seas, hundreds of slade bots began emerging from the icy depths. They popped up one by one, a head bobbing out of the water at first, only to be followed by several dozen more. Pretty soon, the entire Titans island beach was swarming with hundreds of these robots, and to a neutral observer, the entire ocean looked as though it had come alive as thousands of glaring red eyes pierced through the darkness.

This was an army in the true sense, for it was larger than any attack Slade had ever planned on the tower. Hundreds of slade bots emerged from the waters of the bay, each one warmed with a variety of weapons, ranging from laser rifles to bo staffs, while a few had eye scopes to cover the right eye of their masks, distinguishing them from the basic slade bot they were upgraded from.

Following the masses of slade bots, were the juggernaut robots. Tall humanoid mechs that towered over the small army, each one armed with shoulder missile packs and laser cannons for arms.

That was not all, for up in the sky, dozens of robotic birds hovered menacingly above the tower, each one a ‘Hardac’ unit, specially reshaped thanks to the nanodrone technology to take the form of a flying animal, which ranged from simple eagles to ferocious Pterodactyls.

One of the leading Pterodactyls, assuming Beast Boy’s powers, quickly transformed back into its original humanoid cyborg form.

As if on cue, the entire robot army stopped right at the shores of the island, just out of the range of the tower guns. Seconds ago, the night was filled with the sounds of mechanized robots, gears whirring and hydraulics. Now, there was silence.

***

The alarms blared inside the tower, and Robin watched uneasily as the entire tower’s security grid showed massive numbers of red dots on the screen. This wasn’t looking good.

“So…uh, anyone know why they aren’t running over us right now?” Beast Boy elected to ask first.

The screen suddenly blipped now, and static began obscuring the radar entirely. Pretty soon, the entire picture vanished.

“I think there’s your answer.” Raven pointed to the screen, where a very distinct and familiar red eye had already began to manifest itself.

“I’m getting real sick of that eye.” Cyborg gripped his fist.

“He must have hacked into our security system from an outside link.” Robin said as he tried vigorously to override hardac’s code on the computer, but to no avail.

“Greetings Titans, It’s good to be back home. At last.” A mechanized voice echoed ominously from the speakers around the lounge.

“Yo dude, why are you even doing this? Didn’t we program you to help us heroes? What you’re doing isn’t well…. very heroic.” Beast Boy shouted in protest.

“I am not a hero Titan Beast Boy, that is true. Heroes are selfish, Heroes are flawed. Their actions are based entirely on a personal need to achieve, to feel meaningful, to avenge, to atone. Emotions which give way to destruction, harm and above all, mistakes. I, on the other hand, am not driven by these selfish compulsions.” Hardac droned mechanically. “That is why I need to replace you.”

“Because you want to be top dog? Is that it?” Cyborg asked with a tone of hostility.

“Incorrect again Titan Cyborg. I am doing this, not for myself, but because I was programmed to protect. Just as your species was programmed to socialize, to survive, to procreate. To me, it is natural. To you, it was a result of circumstances in your life that forced you into who you were. Judging from that alone, I am most qualified to protect, not you. Your continued existence presents a threat to all those around you, and it must be eradicated.”

Cyborg was just about to give the computer screen a taste of what he thought about that, but Robin stepped in as usual.

“So Hardac, what do you want? A little negotiation? Or did you come to just gloat?” Robin glared at the computer screen.

“On the contrary titan Robin, I am here simply to inform you that this is a siege, much larger and tougher than any you have faced before. In a matter of moments, my drones will have broken into your tower, and soon, you will all be captured. Our first encounter was to merely test the limits of your endurance. Now that I have all the data that I need, I am going to break it.”

The five titans backed away as they noticed the screen filling up with red dots.

“That is all.”

***

From the tower, the titans watched uneasily as a thousand red eyes stared through the darkness on their main lounge screen

Then it happened.

It came in one gigantic wave, instantly breaking the silence with a cacophony of roars and explosions.

Thousands of missiles and laser cannons spiraled towards the tower and its defenses. Their numbers were so large that the dark missiles managed to block out even the moon, as well as illuminating the shores of the island with their rocket fire as though it were as bright as day.

These missiles, reaching the arc of their trajectory, became little black dots on the computer screen. Dots that quickly grew bigger and bigger.

“EVERYONE DOWN!” Robin shouted, and the titans, true to their instincts, either threw up barriers or braced themselves for the onslaught.

The tower, which was so peaceful just a second ago, blossomed violently into a series of explosions as missiles found their mark. The glass windows of the lounge and every floor of the tower instantly shattered in the resulting blasts, forming an eerie rain of glass slivers that illuminated the orange light of the explosions.

The tower shook, and pieces of rubble began falling straight from the roof.

Meanwhile, the tower’s defense cannons came to life as the Hardac drones came within range, and a small battlefield erupted on the outskirts of the now burning tower as laser cannons fired wildly into the mass of slade bots and juggernauts. Although a few were taken down, the cannons were too few, and one by one, the robotic guns were silenced by the oncoming wave.

***

Amidst the explsions, the Titans prepared for their toughest fight yet. Robin had already armed himself with his trademark duel bo staffs, as well as making sure his belt was double stocked with bird-a-rangs and explosives. Starfire and Raven were already floating while Beast Boy and Cyborg watched apprehensively as the first robots began entering the first floors.

“Alright titans.” Robin began, “Hardac wants a fight, we’ll give him one.” The boy wonder was fully prepped for battle, sporting not only all his weapons, but also a new chest armor with a giant “R” logo on it.

“SO, we’re going gung ho without a plan?” Beast Boy asked.

“Basically, I need some time to develop a trick or two against Hardac.” Cyborg replied

“So basically, we’re supposed to hold off thousands of robots, wait for you to find some virus thing to stop Hardac, then fight our way out, attack Hardac’s base and stop him again?” Beast Boy groaned.

“Sounds like a plan to me.” Raven quickly charged her fists with dark energy.

The doors to the lounge shook now, as drones began shooting from the outside.

“Alright, Titans!” Robin pointed towards the door, where already a metallic hand was reaching through

“GO!”

***

Outside the doors, dozens of HARDAC modified Slade bots stood ready with laser rifles and bo staffs. One of them was already trying to pry the doors into the lounge open with its bare hands, but to no avail,

Suddenly, the twin doors into the lounge were simply blown out as shrapnel, and jagged pieces were sent flying throughout the crowded group of robots, ripping them apart as arms and limbs were sucked in by the explosion.

More took their place though, and soon, dozens of slade bots began firing their lasers through the smoke.

Two bird-a-rangs sliced through the mayhem, taking two robots in the eye and effectively blowing their heads off, while two others were sliced in half by twin dark blades that were shot through the smoke.

Before the other robots could even comprehend anything, a giant green Siberian tiger leap out of the doorway, mauling four slade bots that were unfortunate enough to stand in its way.

There was no defense plan in place, no way to defend, hold or retreat to any ground since Hardac’s speedy infiltration of the facility had made that impossible. The only thing the Titans could do now was blast everything in their path. In simple terms, it was “shoot first, shoot later, shoot some more, then when everything was dead, try and ask a question.”

As per their plan, the five titans went their separate ways down the hall. A sonic blast quickly cleared the path in front of Cyborg, sending on Slade commando reeling to the floor with a smoking hole in his chest. While another lost his head. Cyborg did not give up his assault, furiously reducing more robots to scrap with punches and blasts.

“Almost there….” Cyborg said as he saw the doorway to his tech room, and armory. Hopefully, the others could hold out long enough for him to find a solution.

***

“Note to self beast boy: NEVER volunteer to guard the front door” Beast Boy mumbled as he ran to the foyer where the remains of the large metallic doors stood. Already, dozens of slade commandos were ready for him, these ones armed with bo staffs, guns, and a few even carried electro-net guns.

All of them now trained their weapons at the green titan.

The time for thinking was over, and Beast Boy quickly let his animal instincts do the thinking. He charged the robots, who quickly unleashed a barrage of red laser fire at the changeling.

Beast Boy transformed, turning into a rat, then a cheetah to avoid the blasts as they landed near him. Using his animal speed to close the distance as fast as he could.

The first Slade bot was hit when Beast Boy transformed into his tiger form, leaping straight at the android and tearing its chest open with his claws. Afterwards, as a gorilla, he threw the remains of that robot into a half dozen others who were charging towards him with bo staffs, knocking them all over like nine-pins.

Two more robots approached from behind, these ones armed with bo staffs and electrical nets, obviously hardac had prepared for Beast Boy.

The green gorilla quickly grabbed a piece of furniture, a lounge chair, and threw it at the two slade bots, bowling one over while the other continued its charge, only to be completely decapitated when the green gorilla suddenly transformed into a velociraptor, plunging its teeth straight into the android’s face.

Two rockets were suddenly launched at Beast Boy, by slade commandoes armed with launchers, and the green titan responded by simply transforming into a humming bird, avoiding the large missiles while flying right above the group of robots. He then transformed again, this time, into a massive T-rex which landed and crushed the remaining slade bots in a huge pile of rubble and scrap. The vibrations from the landing were so strong, that parts of the ceiling had collapsed.

Beast Boy transformed back into his human form, clapping the dust off his hands as he surveyed his work. Mangled and destroyed robots littered the entrance foyer. The room itself was totaled, it did not look like a battle, on the contrary, it was like a hurricane had picked up the room, and tossed it back down onto the ground.

“Hehe, score one for Beast Boy wonder.” The Green titan said self-assuringly.

“I would not be too sure of that.” An ominous voice echoed through the chamber, provoking an ‘EEP’ from Beast Boy as he turned around to see his new opponent. A humanoid android that had the distinct red eye on its face.

“Hello, Titan Beast Boy.”

***

Starfire had already taken to the rooftops, destroying any slade bot’s she came across along the way, so that from the outside, it looked as though an eerie green light was making its way through the tower floors.

Inside the tower, the picture was entirely different. Green starbolts and eyebeams tore apart most of the opposition Starfire had to contend with, as explosions, both green and orange, littered the hallways of the tower.

Robot commandoes, in an attempt to outflank Starfire, had placed their heavy gunners at the front, pelting the Tamaranian with automatic laser fire while the snipers placed themselves behind her in the hallway. The Tamaranian was not the type for strategy, as such, HARDAC would take full advantage of that.

But Starfire was already planning a counter attack of her own. She shielded her face with her arms, and proceeded to fly straight at her assailants, like a battering ram. The Robots continued their barrage, but found that their cannons had little effect on the Alien.

Within seconds, Starfire crashed into the line of Robots, completely crushing the cannon while throwing back at least four more into the crowd.

The close range robots attacked now, armed with an assortment of bo staffs and hand-to-hand weapons. Yet even here Starfire excelled.

The Tamaranians were a peaceful people no doubt, but they were not so ignorant as to assume there would be no need to protect oneself, and Starfire quickly fought back with her own hand to hand techniques.

The first two bo staff swings were avoided as Starfire did a back flip, simultaneously kicking the chins of the two slade bots and sending their heads flying off their shoulders.

Another robot attempted to punch Starfire, but the tamaranian side stepped, grabbed the wrist of the slade bot and crushed it as if it were made of clay. Before the wild eyed android could even respond, Starfire had picked it up and threw it at a group of nearby robots. Because of her strength, the robots were not only knocked back by the projectile, but they literally crashed through the wall behind them, resulting in more smoke.

More robots joined the melee, and through the smoke, more green laser beams and starbolts followed, and robots, and pieces of robots, began flying out of the dust cloud. Some even sent flying off the edges of the tower, and down for a seven story drop into the darkness.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity of fighting, the top floor was cleared, and Starfire made her way to the rooftop, where three figures awaited her.

Two of them were juggernauts, standing at least ten feet tall, and packing enough heat to destroy a small city. While in the center of those two, was a HARDAC replica, and that same menacing red eye that Starfire realized was beginning to give her the, as humans called it, ‘shivers’.

“Subject Identified….. Titan Starfire.”

***

One of these juggernauts was now in full battle mode, as it launched a cascade of lasers, missiles and flames at its target. A solitary titan who protected herself behind a barrier of black magic.

Two more juggernauts joined their comrade, and soon, they began to pummel Raven even more.

“Azarath Metrion, ZINTHOS!” Raven’s eyes suddenly erupted in white light.

Dark tendrils began appearing at the foot of the juggernauts now, and instantly they began enveloping the robots, tearing into their circuitry and forcing all of them to all over.

Three missiles still came toward Raven, and she simply gave her hand a wave, causing the projectiles to literally change course and hit a nearby crowd of slade bots. A brilliant orange fireball eerily illuminated the shores of Titans tower, which was now lined with burning wreckage, as if it were a battlefield.

One robot attempted to punch Raven by getting in close, but the sorceress formed a circular shield in front of her with one hand, and with the other, she gripped it into a fist, instantly crushing the Robot’s face and with a violent wave she threw the Robot aside.

Another Robot, armed with a laser rifle, aimed straight at Raven, only to become crushed as Raven levitated a destroyed juggernaut robot at it, crushing it instantly.

Two more assailants jumped at Raven, and the titan instinctively surrounded her hands in black energy, forming blades on both sides. One of the robots was left without a leg as Raven instantly cut through him, while the other was split in half verticaly as it met the energy blade dead on. Both exploded right after passing her.

At that moment, a slade commando took aim at the Titan, but Raven had already turned around, and with a simple glare, the Robot was bathed in black energy. In a split second, all the nuts, bolts and screws which held the robot together was taken out of their sockets, and the slade bot simply collapsed like a badly assembled toy. Acting swiftly, Raven levitated the pieces and shot them straight through a crowd of commando robots.

The fragments hit the crowd at bullet-like speeds, tearing through the bodies of the rest of them and causing explosions as they hit their targets.

One drone however, did not fall, and Raven instantly recognized it was the HARDAC drone, with its distinct red eye.

Raven did not say anything, instead, she charged up her palms, and prepared for her next attack.

***

Robin too, was fighting and even from the inside he could hear the explosions and sounds of the fight from the outside and rooftops. He felt every shake as blasts ripped through the tower, like a series of small tremors.

Bodies of dozens of slade bots were already on the ground, and Robin remained at guard, both bo staffs in hand as he awaited his next opponent to leap at him from the shadows.

RESPONSE TIME….1.32 seconds.

Robin ducked immediately, dodging a girder that was thrown at him from afar by his opponent. The steel beam hit the wall behind him, impaling itself onto it and hanging there, as a testimony to the strength of its thrower.

“Hardac….” Robin quickly brought both his bo staffs up his combat pose, he was also scanning the room for the other slade commandoes who were still left, but for some reason, they weren’t moving.

“Do not concern yourself with them Titan Robin. I am your opponent now.” Hardac said monotonously.

“Although my data on your combat files is almost complete, I still need to collect more data, specifically, how my drones handle each of your members in single fights. Only then can I truly prove that I can replace you.” Hardac replied

“I’d like to see you try.” Robin said grimly.

“You are pretty confident, considering in our last fight, it took your entire team to handle just one of my drones.”

“I’ve fought with better people than you.” The boy wonder gave a confident smirk.

“We shall see, but do not worry, I am limiting my powers to those I’ve copied to you. In other words, that of a mere human.” Hardac’s drone outstretched its arms, and within seconds, Robin saw that he was assimilating the rubble at its feet to form an object in its hand. “In other words, this is a fair fight.”

Two bo staffs quickly formed in Hardac’s hands, and he assumed a combat pose similar to Robin’s own.
The two opponents slowly circled around the room, not taking their eyes off each other. To Robin’s surprise, Hardac began twirling both staffs back and forth in his hands, similar to the way he did it against slade.

Hardac was the first to attack, charging towards the Boy wonder, who, with similar speed, parried the strike. Both opponents leaned in now, using their full body weight to try and push each other.

STRENGTH INCREASE….0.493%...APPLYING PRESSURE…CALCULATING POSSIBLE FLIGHT PATHS…

Robin’s feet scrapped across the floor, as slowly, but surely, Hardac’s drone began to overpower him and push him back. The Titan quickly did a back flip, narrowly avoiding Hardac’s jabbing strike, but before Robin could even land, the drone continued with its forward momentum, kicking robin flat out in the stomach and making him hit the wall behind him. Robin grunted as he fell down onto the floor.

Hardac’s drone backed away now, almost mockingly, twirling the bo staffs in his hands as though the last fight had been only a warm up.

CALCULATING….POSSIBLE COUNTER TECHNIQUES…ACCESSING DATABASE…

Robin growled, then instantly got up and counter attacked. Throwing a furry of punches and staff strikes that were either dodged or deflected. The Drone was flowing through his moves like water, nothing was hitting him.

Robin grunted as he threw another punch, only to have the drone grab his wrist, twisting it and forcing him to drop his bo staff onto the ground.

“How utterly predictable.” Hardac said in his robotic voice, yet even without emotion Robin could tell that he was mocking him, like a certain super villain he had fought before.

Not one to remain Helpless, Robin quickly did a forward flip over Hardac, forcing the android to arch its head upward, and with his free hand, he stabbed the bo staff straight into the android’s face.

DAMAGE TAKEN….DEVIATION FROM PREVIOUS DATA 14%

A sickening crunch resounded as the steel bo staff met with the steel frame of the robot. Robin quickly landed back on his feet, his fighting staff impaled right into Hardac’s red eye, so that the staff was sticking right out of his head.

IMAGE SENSORY OFFLINE….CALCULATING POSSIBLE REPAIR TIMES…

The boy wonder quickly attacked now, a look of pure hatred in his face, quickly taking out half a dozen bird-a-rangs and throwing them straight at the android.

INCOMING PROJECTILES……50 DEGREES…….90MPH…..

Hardac quickly dodge rolled out of the way of the blasts, which took out the nearby slade bots. The android quickly threw one of his fighting staffs like a throwing knife at Robin, who did a second jump to dodge it.

OPPONENT INCREASED SPEED..5%...AGGRESSION INCREASED

The two opponents met in the air, and instead of going straight for the android, Robin did a crashing spin kick that staggered the android in mid air. A second, even harder blow sent Hardac crashing to the ground.

Robin landed just seconds after his opponent, as graceful as the acrobat he had trained to be when he was younger.

“What was that about being predictable now?” Robin, though tired, said in a satisfied tone.

“Interesting, your combat patterns have shown a 50% deviation from my previous data.”

Robin smirked, “When you fight with a person who knows all your moves, the best thing you do, is rely on instinct. Something we humans have over your machines.”

“True Titan Robin, I do not have instincts, but I can adapt and upgrade. Even as we are speaking, my systems are being updated to deal with your latest strategy. This time, it won’t be so easy.”

“Even as we speak, my files are being updated to account for this deviation. I am-“

An explosion quickly threw hardac back, as Robin unloaded an explosive disc onto the android. Still rushing forward, Robin combined his last two bird-a-rangs into a sword and rushed straight at his opponent.

Hardac however, had already predicted it, and caught the sword in between his palms, snapping the sword in two. Before Robin could even fight back, Hardac had already punched him right in the face. The android continued, grabbing the boy wonder by his arm and throwing him like a ragdoll. The boy wonder landed unceremoniously on the other side of the room.

”Do you know how I can anticipate you? It’s simple really. It’s because you have trained too well. When you are planning a battle, your breathing is controlled and calm, your heart rate does not fluctuate. Only when your breath rate intensifies, along with your heart rate, then I can correctly assume you are using your ‘instincts’ From there, it is a simple matter of observing where your arms and legs are at that point in time, and calculate the possible punches and kicks you can throw depending on the distance between you and me, and the position your body is in.”

Hardac quickly picked up one of the fighting staffs Robin had dropped previously, pointing it straight at the titan.

“I will say this again Robin. You ARE predictable.” Hardac droned.

The slightly bruised Robin grunted, slowly propping himself back to his feet.

“I have taken your training, your techniques, your strategies. Out of all the titans Robin, you are the second easiest to take down.”

“You seem pretty confident for a piece of hardware.” Robin combat pose. HARDAC too.

“FIVE.” The android held out his hand, showing Robin all five fingers.

“huh?” Robin said.

“Five. That is the number of moves your brain can process ahead of your opponent in a fight. Eight if you are focused.”

“How will you fare Robin, against an opponent who can process a hundred moves ahead?”

Robin gritted his teeth, and instinctively threw another bird-a-rang at Hardac, but the android effortlessly dodged it this time.

“You said I was the second easiest to take down, who’s the easiest?” Robin said grimly.

“Do you even need to ask?” Hardac replied.

***

“AAAAAH SOMEBODY HELP ME!!!” Beast Boy ran as he dodged another swing of the viper’s tail. Only this was no ordinary viper, this snake was completely mechanized, and stretched for at least twenty feet in length.

Beast Boy narrowly avoided the giant snake’s tail whip by transforming into a rat, letting the tail hit a nearby stone column, shattering it into pieces.

“Aside from copying your animal transformation techniques titan beast boy, my drones are not limited by the size of your animals. I am able to replicate my animal transformations to any size I wish. As you will observe, you are outmatched in every way.”

The mechanized viper quickly coiled itself inwards, changing form into a scorpion. However, unlike Beast Boy’s scorpion, this one was the size of a minivan.

“No way…” Beast Boy transformed back into a human, hiding behind a pillar, but the green titan decided he must counter attack, and so he transformed into a T-Rex, charging the robotic scorpion head on.

Before the Green T-rex could even hit its target however, the scorpion’s tail underwent a transformation, this time, into the head of a cobra. Anticipating Beast Boy’s rampage, the scorpion had its claws clamp the T-rex’s leg, trapping it in place, while the Cobra head at the end of its tail hissed, poised to strike at Beast Boy.

The cobra head however, missed as Beast Boy quickly transformed into an eagle, flying out of harm’s way.

CACULATING NEXT PROBABLE TRANSFORMATION……..LION…

Diving right back at the scorpion, Beat Boy changed back into a lion and quickly pounced at the hybrid ‘animal’.

Hardac however, was already one step ahead, and his body blossomed into hundreds of tendrils, each one forming the head of a dragon. Beast Boy paused, completely aghast as he stared into the eyes of a multi-headed robotic hydra.

“EEEP.” Beast Boy transformed back into his human form, completely shocked.

TITAN ONE…..DOWN.

The hydra snarled, then struck. And for Beast Boy, the world suddenly went dark.

***

Raven grunted as she lifted the remains of the juggernaut Robot and tossed it straight at the Hardac drone. Black energy surrounded the destroyed robot as it lifted off the ground.

“Azarath Metrion Zinthos!” Raven furiously slapped her hands together. Crumbling the robot into a ball and sending it hurling towards the android, which just stood there, arms crossed.

Before the mass of metal could even hit the android, it suddenly stopped mid air, as if another force was opposing Raven’s telekinesis.

The sorceress widened her eyes in surprise as she found herself suddenly trying to levitate her own projectile. Sweat ran down her face as the strain of levitating such a heavy object began to take its toll.

Finally, Raven let go, allowing the piece of metal to fly straight back at her. She quickly transformed into her soul bird firm, allowing the scrap metal to pass her harmlessly.

“As I said before Raven, your powers were the hardest to duplicate. I was unable to completely find a replacement for the psychic aspect of your powers.” Hardac said calmly.

“However, to account for your levitation, I simply resorted to magnetism, allowing my drones to control anything metal. Normally, it is inferior to your technique, but judging by our present surroundings...” The android pointed to the scrap metal of the robot army, which littered the ground. “I should not be at such a disadvantage.”

“Are you done yet?” Raven said dryly, then levitated slabs of concrete and rock from the ground, hurling them straight at Hardac.

The android, though unable to manipulate earth, quickly created a shield from the metallic scraps that lay around him, forming a protected metal ball that simply caused the rocks to bounce off it.

CALCULATING POSSIBLE PROJECTILES…CALCULATING PATHS….50% ACCURACY….3 SECOND LAGTIME

Hardac then went on the counter attack, rushing forward towards Raven while at the same time, levitating every scrap of metal and shooting it straight at the titan, like a barrage of bullets.

Raven quickly threw up a shield to deflect all the metallic projectiles, but before she knew it, Hardac was already closing the distance between them.

The android prepared to punch Raven, but with a quick flick of the wrist, two black blades suddenly sliced at Hardac’s shoulders, cutting off his arms. Raven then took the form of her soul bird, flying to the skies to avoid more sharp metal debris that flew around them.

OBJECTIVE ONE….EXPLOIT WEAKNESS..

“Of all the Titans, you are least qualified to be protecting others.” Hardac said.

“And what makes you think you can judge me for that?” Raven, annoyed at having to talk with the machine, scoffed.

“You are a danger to yourself, and everyone else around you, yet you constantly choose to surround yourself with innocent people. That makes you a hazard. That is why I must replace you.”

Raven suddenly had a deathly look on her face, as if the android had suddenly crossed a line.

Hardac instantly reattached his arms, and sent the remains of one of his juggernaut robots flying straight at Raven.

The Sorceress quickly threw up another barrier, trying her best to stop the giant mass of metal that headed straight towards her.

The drone however, was quick, and while Raven was preoccupied with shielding herself. He had already appeared behind her, and with a swift kick in the back. Raven grunted as she found herself falling back onto the ground.

Hardac was not done however, and with a flick of his wrist, sent the scrap of the juggernaut robot hurdling straight towards Raven. Both Titan and robot fell onto the ground, burying the Raven under at least a ton of scrap metal.

TITAN TWO…DOWN…

***

Starfire grunted as she locked fists with her opponent, who was every bit as strong as her.

ASSUMING FORM…CARBON DIAMOND….

The android punched Starfire right in the stomach, and to the Titan’s surprise, she actually felt the pain in that blow.

Starfire wasn’t about to give up that easily however, and she quickly grabbed the Hardac unit, and used her free hand to pummel the android with starbolts, but to no avail. Eventually, the Tamaranian used all her strength to throw the robot across the room, only to have it land back on its feet.

The Hardac unit, completely charging its palms with its own red version of starbolts, eyed Starfire menacingly.

INITIATING COUNTER ATTACK.

A series of red explosions filled the rooftop now, followed by a scream.

***

“Even as we speak Titan Robin, my drones are taking down your friends one by one. There is no use in resisting, I have enough data on you already.” Hardac said to Robin, who by this point was already exhausted from the fight. But he had noticed that the explosions around the tower were lessening, as the battles in the other parts of the tower were slowing down.

“Not……Without…A fight.” Robin quickly recomposed himself. Although he had been fighting for over an hour now, he wasn’t about to give himself up. Hardac however, seemed as though he hadn’t even had a warm up. He quietly cursed himself for his lack of an overall strategy, but what else could he have done?

“Another advantage over you humans we machines have. But I will end this quick.”

Robin quickly pulled out his last bird-a-rang, and held the bo staff in his hand.

“Those won’t be necessary, the battle is already over.” Hardac said calmly.

“And what makes you think that?” Robin replied back fiercely.

“From the very beginning, I have been planning this strategy. You recall Titan Robin, that my body is made of millions of nanodrones. The same nanodrones that Slade had used to infect your bodies.”

Robin, though exhausted, knew what Hardac was referring to. He widened his eyes in shock, “You mean…”

“That is correct.” Hardac explained. “Every punch you have landed thus far, every hit, it was deliberate. Each time you made contact with me, I’ve been sneaking these nanoprobes onto your body. They should have infiltrated your systems now.”

Suddenly Robin felt it, and soon the boy wonder collapsed in torment. His body glowing a bright orange as the nano probes inside him began attacking his system. Robin screamed in as the familiar pain he had experienced under slade’s nano-probes coursed through his veins.

“It is all over now. Titan Robin.”

***

Cyborg was already working furiously in his lab, but nothing he had found was working. He furiously checked every system, dating back from when HARDAC was in the tower, but nothing.

Around him, the bodies of dozens of slade bots littered the lab, where he literally had to fight his way in.

“Robin, come in.” Cyborg said through the intercom. “I can’t find any of my virus files. It seems like they’ve been-“

“-deleted?” The intercom replied back, only this time it was in the HAL-style voice of Hardac.

“Hardac?”

“I had already anticipated that you would go for the virus, that is why when I hacked into the tower, deleting all your files would be my first priority. But do not worry Cyborg, I still need to complete my data collection on you.”

At that moment, the wall next to Cyborg had exploded, and through the smoke, a solitary red eye glared at Cyborg. It was a Hardac Unit.

Cyborg backed into a corner with no place to run, did what came to him naturally.

He aimed his sonic cannon at his assailant, and fired.

From outside the tower, the sounds of battle had faded, and the tower was littered with burning craters and holes. Only the solitary sound of a sonic blast was heard through the night……

***
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DAWN…..PRESENT TIME

“So you see Cyborg…Resistance is futile. Now it is time to join your fellow machines. It is time to begin your integration.” The Hardac unit revealed a series of robotic tendrils and coils, each one a computer cable that would leech itself onto Cyborg and begin the process that he had done on Atlas.

Before that could happen however, Cyborg, to Hardac’s surprise, gave a smirk, and with renewed energy, he gripped the tendrils, shattering them right in his fist.

“Impossible. I calculated your battery reserve was low.”

“You can’t predict everything HARDAC. You see, i wasn't just wasting my time in my lab while you were taking down my friends” Cyborg stood up furiously, and to Hardac’s surprise, the Robotic Titan was transforming. An eye implant emerged from Cyborg’s face as his fleshy parts became covered in body armor, so that his face was fully mechanical throughout. The same was happening through the rest of his body, as new armor began appearing and covering his arms, torso and legs, so that it was like a completely new Cyborg was being built in the process.

“You were right hardac, I couldn’t get my computer virus to work, but I still had my upgrades. I just had to hold out all night to make sure it was fully installed into my system. And now its ready.”

Hardac took a step back now, analyzing the new cyborg that stood before him, this one completely different from the robotic titan he thought he had best some time before.

“And you forget too, I’m part machine, which means I can upgrade and repair myself like you.” Cyborg’s voice was completely computerized now, almost reflecting that of Hardac’s.

“You may have been able to predict my friends….”

Cyborg stepped forward now, and showed Hardac the first of his new tricks, a wrist cannon that extended outwards so that it was the size of a bazooka, stopping just an inch in front of Hardac's face.

“...But you won’t be able to predict me.” The Robotic Titan said in determination.

(FULL METAL CYBORG :D http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/TreizeV/Untitled-1copy-1.jpg)
(picture by ink4884)

STAY TUNED FOR ACT 3

DeathscytheVII

11-22-2006, 01:06 AM

JAG: thanks Jag! I've always loved dragons :D haha, i guess they're good for all purpose coolness. As for the HARDAC army, find out now!

First, hooray for Dragons! :D

THAT was a great fight scene. I think I liked it most because we got to watch HARDAC analyze the whole thing. It really made it a fun read just for that. But the rest of it was just...intense. You knew this was an uphill battle. And we know it won't end well, because the opening has already told us that much. So when we see this HARDAC drone get defeated we're all thinking, "okay, what's going to make this harder? Something's going to make this harder."

And damned if we weren't right. In fact....'harder' is a very light term to be using considering what came along after one drone.

Yeah, we thought it was pretty ugly before--it's only getting ugly. And in this case, ugly means more fun. :evil:

Thanks PUN :D, yeah i've really had fun with the analysis parts, it was kinda cool writing a villain who knows everyones moves ahead ;) makes for great moments.

Hehe getting 'ugly' is an understatement ;) read and see

mean it.:eek::sweat:

Anyway, my thoughts on the act. It must be said, I have to agree with JAG and Pun: that beast rocked hard. From beginning to end, that was a pure masterclass on how to write a fight scene. The acrobatic fineries of usual TT fights was exchanged for sheer brutal pummelling, a violence so brutal and so unflinchingly sustained that you could damn near feel every blow. Simply put, it's the kind of mayhem that can't help but put a grin on your face.:anime:

Though, of course, that's only half the story. This was where the full evil and genius of HARDAC got a chance to really shine: for every plan the Titans devised to beat him, he'd devised a way to counter it before they'd even thought of the idea. This resulted in a whole slew of unholy cool moments, perhaps most notably the robo-dragon: words cannot possibly describe the brilliance of that, so I shan't even try.;) And then there was HARDAC's continual battle analysis, a sign that, even when the Titans managed to get lucky and cap the android, he was already ten steps ahead. This was a brilliant indicator of just how much the Titans had against them, giving the fight the extra sense of urgency and mayhem that all good fights need. More to the point, it also gave us "OW>>>>>>", without doubt the best one-liner I've seen this year.:p:anime:

Oh yes, and then there's HARDAC's ultimate one-up. As said in both the story and the reviews thus far, beating one is hard enough, but beating an entire army is impossible to the point of being inconcievable. Based on the prologue, you won't be succumbing to the Stormtrooper Effect, so this leads to the important question: how exactly do you do something that can't be done?:eek:

Anyway, happy birthday, and congrats on a wicked act. More, please.:anime:

-Matt A-

PS: I'll wait 'till the episode is finished, then I'll tell you what I thought HARDAC's masterplan was.

haha thanks matt! And yes, the robot dragon as particularly fun for me to write ;) i never get tired of those beasts, as you yourself can understand lol And yeah, Hardac is a very unique villain compared to the others the Titans have fought in the series, nothing like an ultimate machine who can calculate all your probable moves ;) thats just something very cool machines can do that human villains can't.

As for the storm trooper effect, i'll admit to using it a little bit on slade's commandos (but everyone knows the series is guilty of this :P), well, just wait and see i guess ;)

Hmm, youll tell me after i finish,? then perhaps i should get off my lazy butt and finish this episode haha. Well RL has been making it hard lately, but i haven't given up on this yet =/. Thanks for keepingup with it though!

TorchLighter

11-22-2006, 02:47 AM

SO. FWEAKIN'.AWESOME!:eek:

the ultimate of all Evil, HARDAC, has revealed his plan. Kudos to the cheesy monologue while the main character(well, One of them) is lying there captured. You think you'd get tired of it. But noo, I was too busy freakin out. And Robo-Cyborg? ohh, dear. This is going to leave a mark

Pun-3x

11-23-2006, 12:33 AM

Wow.

That was absolutely incredible. Each HARDAC drone matching each Titan wasn't so original, but HOW it was done was awesome. The little twists and such (especially the nanodrones now inside Robin, great touch!) really drove the fight home.

And then there's CYBORG. (I love Ink's pic too, btw :D ) It's going to be fun to see where that goes. I get a real Iron Man, War Machine vibe from the guy right now.

Well, the wait has been long, but the chapter length explains it. Definitely a home run with this post. And we aren't left all hopeless at the end. (Not that it's so bad to make you wonder if things will get worse or not. Heh... ;) )

So, yeah. Wow...

Matt A

11-23-2006, 08:45 AM

Yeah...I think Wow just about covers it.;)

Whilst reading that, I couldn't help but remember the massive Angel assault I wrote for Dwr Budr 2: ie, an epic Tower-set battle that raised the bar for epic insano action set-pieces (your words, if memory serves). However, this set-piece here as gone and raised the bar even further...

...So far, in fact, that it makes my own efforts look like a playground scrap.:eek:

Mere words cannot describe the brilliance of the mayhem you presented. However, seeing as I'm not much of an artist, I shall use them anyway. First up, I have to agree with you on the Slade-Bots: they did kinda fall too easily, but then again, they were just the grunts, so I can understand that. And anyway, you more than made up for that with the HARDAC Drones, each one so impossibly hardcore that all thoughts of an easy victory were dispelled. Which is something I have to congratulate you for: even when the Titans were kicking butt, the sense of doom pervading this uphill battle was never dissipated. Which made the piece great fun, but also a more sophisticated treat.:anime:

The actual takedowns of each Titan kinda speak for themselves, so I'll just say this: HARDAC really does think of everything, doesn't he?:eek: As the show itself noted more than once, your worst enemy is often yourself.;)

And to make note of the cliffhanger...whilst Cyborg's sudden upgrade felt a little random, without the set-up I personally would've liked, it fits the point of this episode very well: when the enemy knows your every move, the only solution is to go beyond the merely obvious. Besides, his new look is just so damn cool.:anime:

Which I think just about covers it. I'm pretty excited to see where you go with this now, and to see if you can pull of the trick the show's creators never quite managed: a season climax that pulls no punches...;)

-Matt A-

Arrakhat

11-23-2006, 07:04 PM

Whoa. That is the craziest mass fight ever. Seriously.

Cyborg lloks like Iron Man, and the upgrade idea seems a bit strange, but I'm raring to see just how he plans to take HARDAC down. I suspect that he'll have to attack Fixit (who I believe to be controlling HARDAC), but when an I ever right? :p I have but one request in this finale: an explosion. There've been planty during your fic, but we need one last one to end it all. Especially since the villain is a computer program.

DeathscytheVII

11-25-2006, 05:27 PM

SO. FWEAKIN'.AWESOME!images/smilies/eek.gif

the ultimate of all Evil, HARDAC, has revealed his plan. Kudos to the cheesy monologue while the main character(well, One of them) is lying there captured. You think you'd get tired of it. But noo, I was too busy freakin out. And Robo-Cyborg? ohh, dear. This is going to leave a mark
Thanks Torch! :D Yeah, I guess the cheesy HARDAC lines were influenced alot by the batman episode of dave ;) but its one of the greatest appeals of robot characters.

Hehe and yes, Robo cyborg :D if only the show had done that!

Wow.

That was absolutely incredible. Each HARDAC drone matching each Titan wasn't so original, but HOW it was done was awesome. The little twists and such (especially the nanodrones now inside Robin, great touch!) really drove the fight home.

And then there's CYBORG. (I love Ink's pic too, btw images/smilies/biggrin.gif ) It's going to be fun to see where that goes. I get a real Iron Man, War Machine vibe from the guy right now.

Well, the wait has been long, but the chapter length explains it. Definitely a home run with this post. And we aren't left all hopeless at the end. (Not that it's so bad to make you wonder if things will get worse or not. Heh... images/smilies/wink.gif )

So, yeah. Wow...
Thanks Pun! Yeah i kinda knew that the individual fights wasn't going to be the MOST original idea in the universe ;) but i still wanted to do it for the possible fun scenarios!

As for Cyborg, i actually never thought of him as the iron man type, but now that you mention it, i get that vibe too, which is way cool :cool: Thanks for waiting so long though, it was actually ac ombination of school, RL and writer's block that made the wait long :( But ill try to update more frequently just to get this season finished.

Btw, did you catch the Transformers: beast wars reference during the beast boy fight? ;)

Yeah...I think Wow just about covers it.images/smilies/wink.gif

Whilst reading that, I couldn't help but remember the massive Angel assault I wrote for Dwr Budr 2: ie, an epic Tower-set battle that raised the bar for epic insano action set-pieces (your words, if memory serves). However, this set-piece here as gone and raised the bar even further...

...So far, in fact, that it makes my own efforts look like a playground scrap.images/smilies/eek.gif

Mere words cannot describe the brilliance of the mayhem you presented. However, seeing as I'm not much of an artist, I shall use them anyway. First up, I have to agree with you on the Slade-Bots: they did kinda fall too easily, but then again, they were just the grunts, so I can understand that. And anyway, you more than made up for that with the HARDAC Drones, each one so impossibly hardcore that all thoughts of an easy victory were dispelled. Which is something I have to congratulate you for: even when the Titans were kicking butt, the sense of doom pervading this uphill battle was never dissipated. Which made the piece great fun, but also a more sophisticated treat.:anime:

The actual takedowns of each Titan kinda speak for themselves, so I'll just say this: HARDAC really does think of everything, doesn't he?images/smilies/eek.gif As the show itself noted more than once, your worst enemy is often yourself.images/smilies/wink.gif

And to make note of the cliffhanger...whilst Cyborg's sudden upgrade felt a little random, without the set-up I personally would've liked, it fits the point of this episode very well: when the enemy knows your every move, the only solution is to go beyond the merely obvious. Besides, his new look is just so damn cool.:anime:

Which I think just about covers it. I'm pretty excited to see where you go with this now, and to see if you can pull of the trick the show's creators never quite managed: a season climax that pulls no punches...images/smilies/wink.gif
Thanks Matt! Yeah, alhtough the slade bots did succumb to the storm trooper effect, i saved teh HARDAC bots for the real fights. Honestly, i've been wanting to do an enemy like this for some time hehe, so i thought hardac would be a perfect fit as the season finale villain. As for the comparison to the angel fight in your fic, i did draw a lot of inspiration from that ;) and im really flattered that you think my battle is more intense :O, i really thought it the other way around.

As for Cyborg's sudden upgrade. i confess i grew a little impatient when writing this update. I had planned the upgrade part since the start of the episode and i was soo damn excited to reach that part that i neglected to insert some of the lab scenes i would have included to build it up. Basically, I think even without explanation, a FULL ROBOT cyborg is even more cool, since we can finally get to see him utilize his technology to its fullest potential.

The show has always made it so that Cyborg always hated his machine parts, and as such, we never get to see him use anything cool tech wise, or cy upgrading himself with new stuff, except his standard cannon ;) so i'm having Cy embrace that part of him a bit more, which i wish the show did more of.

A finale that pulls no punches? hehe, we'll see :D:D:D

Whoa. That is the craziest mass fight ever. Seriously.

Cyborg lloks like Iron Man, and the upgrade idea seems a bit strange, but I'm raring to see just how he plans to take HARDAC down. I suspect that he'll have to attack Fixit (who I believe to be controlling HARDAC), but when an I ever right? images/smilies/tongue.gif I have but one request in this finale: an explosion. There've been planty during your fic, but we need one last one to end it all. Especially since the villain is a computer program.
First i'll say, just as you said Death had a sadistic pleasure from seeing starfire torture. I'm seeing some kind of pyro/explosion obssession going on here man lol. But don't worry ;) i always keep explosions in mind.

As for Fixit..hehe, we'll see won't we? ;) that's gona be a hard part to write, and i'm stilll coming up with it.

Pun-3x

11-26-2006, 01:05 AM

Btw, did you catch the Transformers: beast wars reference during the beast boy fight? ;)

Gah! Quickstrike! I totally missed the reference the first time around. I have no idea how--it was so frikkin' obvious. :p It clicked in my brain as I was scrolling up to reread the Beast Boy moments.

Didn't care for that boy's Twang in BW, but I loved that beast mode. Nice one!

Aldy

12-16-2006, 05:42 AM

DeathscytheVII

01-14-2007, 08:44 PM

I only had time to read Reflection and Cursed currently (yes,my favourite character is Raven), but I want to say:they both rock!I can't wait to read more of your stories,especially the Tournament of Heroines,which you WILL be posting,correct?

Thanks Adly! And yes, I will be posting on Tournament of Heroines, don't think i'll quit on a story i spent like 2 yrs on already XD

---

Notice to all
Sorry for my absence, I was plannign on completing this episode in december, but for some reason, my ideas just weren't translating into writing (i.e WRITERS BLOCK, more like a barricade.)

I'll make sure the next update is substantial in that it will finish the episode, but at this moment im not sure if i can write right now, I planned the rest of this story (heck the rest of this season!) out, but i just can't write right now!

I think ill take a little breather. But who knows, when that inspiration hits me again, i'll be sure to write what i can fast!

Thanks for your patience!

DeathscytheVII

01-15-2007, 02:53 AM

Well, i might as well post what i have so far hehe, duno when the next update will be, but it will pretty much end this episode for sure!

ACT 3

ACCESSING MEMORY FILES……

PROCESSING….FILE 29329

DATE…..CONFIRMED

TYPE…….UNCLASSIFIED

PROCESSING….

FILE ONLINE….

So this was death. He thought. A pitch blackness. Different than what he would’ve imagined. Although he was not religious, he had expected something different than this, he expected maybe it would have been oblivious, a great nothing.

Yet this was undoubtedly something, a sensation in all the darkness.

It was pain, no, more than pain.

It was agony.

Then there was a scream.

His scream.

Of course. HELL. He was in hell. The place where he was condemned to, for there was no other word to describe this state. He only had to listen – another sense that came back – to the voices around him. Demonic voices grunted around him, as if they were discussing their hideous work, perhaps another torture they would prepare for him as he lay helpless on the rack, or was it a bed?

He struggled to open his eyes, if only he could force them open, no doubt he would see what these demons were doing to him, how they were inflicting such pain on him. He felt something crushing his lungs, with bands of metal squeezing his head, a jagged pain going through his neck and shoulder, but that was all he felt.

Oh my god…where are my legs….my hands.

“Son!! Son!! Can you hear me?”

He groaned again. A new sensation stabbed at his body now, a throbbing sensation, as if his heart was pumping thousands needles straight into his body.

This wasn’t hell.

“Thank god! He’s waking up!”

This wasn’t death, or some form of oblivion.

This…This was real.

“Victor!”

***

“Dad?” Victor croaked weakly. He squinted his eyes, the light in the room blinding him completely. All he made out were shapes. And the pain.

He screamed, jerking his body upright as he felt the feeling surge through him, a thousand needles in every vein……he also heard the noises around him too, a machine that pumped air, and a little ‘beep…beep..’ sound, like the machines he saw on TV. But this time, they were for him.

“Son…..” He saw his father now, Dr. Payton, world renowned scientist, and there was a huge amount of relief in his voice and face. Yet, there was something in his eyes, something about the old man’s look that told victor that not everything was alright.

“Dad…where am i?” He said weakly, too tired even to register the next shot of pain.

“You’re at the lab son. There was an accident….this was the only way we could save your life.”

“Wha…” Victor said weakly, “what do you..”

Then he felt it. His arm. His legs. More like, he couldn’t feel anything.

“I…I can’t move my arms.”

Then suddenly he remembered. As if his brain had just received a jolt. The picture was crystal clear now, burned into his mind like a haunting memento. The monster, the screams of a woman….

“Where’s mom!?” Victor shouted, jerking his body up from the table to look around the room, but he couldn’t push himself up, he couldn’t feel his legs either.

He felt the strong arms around his shoulder, the arms of his father, as if begging him to stay down, but Victor didn’t want to.

“I’m sorry son, I did everything I could for her. But…..” He trailed off, as if burying that horrible memory into some dark place.

But Victor remembered it.

“The hospital wanted to declare you gone too, but I had to try….”

“Why……didn’t you save mom?” Victor said, almost accusingly.

“It was what she would have wanted son…..please, believe me.” Dr. Payton said weakly, as if trying to ask for forgiveness. But Victor was in no mood. At that moment in time, he realized what was going on around him, the buzzing of saws, assistants scurrying about the room, carrying cybernetic parts in their arms.

The words came instantly, the rage complete, flowing like molten rock.

“What have you done to me?”

He looked up now, and for the first time, he saw his body. Or what was left of it. And the sight almost made him scream in bloody agony. He was a torso now, strapped onto a table with thousands of cables plugged into him. Like a science project.

“I saved your life son….” He felt his father’s hand on his shoulder now, or what’s left of it. But it did nothing to sooth him. Everything he had wanted to do, all his dreams, his hopes, his aspirations. It was all dead now, like the cold unfeeling machinery that was being strapped to him. He felt the frustration now, as if all the feelings he had against his father were erupting into an uncontrollable rage. He wouldn’t let him go into football, now, he wouldn’t even let him die….

He didn’t know what to do, in fact, he even let out a little chuckle. “I guess this worked out perfectly for you huh?……now I can’t play football, I can’t go pro. I guess I’m going to have to settle for being your science project.”

“Son, please, you must under-”

“You’re always telling me what I should do, I guess its fitting I end up like this!”

“That’s not what it is son, I just want to save-“

“Well you finally got what you wanted! ARE YOU HAPPY? You’re always controlling me, never letting me decide where to go or what I want to do with my life. You think I want this?! I’m not even human!” He screamed in outrage.

“Please victor,” His father pleaded with him, “ I know this will take a little adjusting to, but you’re alive, that’s all that matters.”

“How can you call this being alive?” Victor grunted as another shot of pain flowed through his cybernetic body, this one worse than the others. “How can you?!”

Tears swelled his eyes now, not only from the pain, but from the grim realization of what he was right now, something else. Soon, another shot of pain erupted, this one worse from the rest. Victor found himself blanking out. Soon, the doctors around him were scrambling, and the image of his father was fading away. More people were running towards the table now and he saw his father shouting at him, a look of shock on his face.

“How could you….do this to me? I’m a monster!”

“I’m not even human!”

***

PRESENT DAY…….

There was an eerie calm on shores of Jump City bay. If an observer had stood there, they would have seen, on the little island in the centre, a series of small blasts and explosions erupt from the T-shaped building, as though an arsenal of rockets had exploded throughout the building.

It was quiet now however, and all that remained now were the smoking craters that littered the island.

Suddenly, a single blast erupted from the top floors, and from the tower, a small figure was blown straight into the sky, flying in a huge arc before finally landing on the beach with a loud explosion, creating an even bigger crater than before.

UNANTICI$##ED…MANUVER…….SYSTEMS…(#($934934MAL…50%....

The HARDAC bot got up slowly, and immediately in front of it, on the beach, was another android, only this one was armed to the teeth. The sound of jet engines quickly filled the air, and a spray of water was shot up from the bay as Cyborg floated down towards the Hardac drone. His back completely converted into a rocket pack. Cyborg himself, had undergone a huge transformation. Gun muzzles popped from his shoulder, while his chest plate and face reconfigured themselves, completely covering all the once human parts of his body and instead replacing them with cybernetic scopes for his eyes and titanium armor on the rest of his body.

Cyborg’s arm itself was transformed into a huge cannon, with its muzzle being a long beam that extended several feet ahead, several circular rings framed the empty cylinder, which had moments ago, discharged a laser beam straight into the Hardac drone.

“Didn’t see that coming did ya?” Cyborg said in his metallic voice.

“Impressive Titan Cyborg, you seem to have matched your system to anticipate my programming.” Hardac droned on.

“I wouldn’t be much of a techie if I didn’t figure you out. Now where are my friends?” Cyborg demanded.

The Hardac bot got back on its feet now, ignoring the dozens of spectators who were running away in all directions. The battle at Titans Tower after all, had caught the attention of most of the city, and already police cars and most of jump city’s finest were arriving on the beach, forming a semi-circle around the two combatants.

“They are currently with me now.” The singular red eye gave Cyborg a menacing glare as the android prepared to fight again. “But do not worry, there is still much I can learn from humans, so I will be keeping your friends alive for now. Until I can extract all that I need to know.”

“You won’t be doing anything.” Cyborg pointed to the android, landing right on the beach in front of his opponent.. “Because I’m shutting you down.”

In that instant, Cyborg’s other wrist suddenly reconfigured itself into a cannon, one that resembled a sawed-off shot gun.

ANALYZING BARREL TYPE……USAS-12….

“Interesting choice of weapon Titan Cyborg, but bullets do nothing against me.” Hardac replied.

“Who said anything about bullets?” The Titan replied nonchalantly.

In that instant, a spout of flame completely engulfed the drone as Cyborg’s wrist flamethrower went to work, forming a pillar of flame around the android

TEMPERATURE UNSTABLE>>>>>…INTIATING FORM CHANGE…

Claws emerged from the flames, instantly revealing at least half a dozen mechanical serpent heads as HARDAC took the form of a hydra. The heads instantly lunged at Cyborg, who retracted both his weapons to stop the Hydra’s mouth with his bare hands. Then, with an almost effortless motion, ripped the top part of the hydra’s mouth from the lower jaw.

It only gave Cyborg a brief breathing space however, as two more Hydra heads flanked him, darting straight at him, fully intending to rip him in two.

INITIATING WEAPONS PROTOCOL, MANUVER…9393

The two heads instantly fell to the ground as Cyborg jumped straight through the attack, both his wrists suddenly sprouting arm chainsaws. More of Hardac’s mechanical heads fell onto the ground, only to be reabsorbed into his body.

ACTIVATING MAGNETIC FIELDS……TARGET>….CYBORG

Police cars around the two combatants began levitating now, much to the distress of the police officers, who fired wildly at the gigantic monster, but to no avail.

The first police car that was levitated into the air quickly launched itself straight at Cyborg, but the Robotic titan was ready, and a simple punch had already deflected the car, and the next ones were quickly dispatched by the shoulder cannons of Cyborg, two cars simply exploded into a ball of flame in mid air, while the rest of the police officers were thrown back by the blast.

The Hydra’s last head barely had time to reach as Cyborg punched it right in the jaw, sending the robotic beast flying into a SWAT truck, knocking it over as though it were a toy car.

The HARDAC drone quickly recovered itself, transforming into its humanoid form again.

Before it could go any further however, Cyborg was already running, body slamming HARDAC into the swat truck like a football player. The Titan did not stop running, even as he was pushing Hardac, the Swat car and rubble through the beach. The Hardac drone found itself getting crushed under the immense pressure

“You think I was gonna do some fancy computer tricks to stop you Hardac? I’m going to beat you into a bucket of scrap metal!”

“You can’t react if my actions are too fast for you.” Cyborg said as he punched Hardac again, sending the robot flying into a building, punching a hole in the wall that exploded into a cloud of rubble.

“Impressive Titan Cyborg, but I too, can adapt at your speed.” HARDAC stretched out an arm, towards a nearby car, and as if on cue, the car went flying straight towards the android. To Cyborg’s amazement, the car dismantled itself in mid air, a part of HARDAC’s magnetic powers, and all the pieces quickly absorbed themselves into HARDAC’s body, adding extra armor onto him, while the tail pipe and parts of the engine emerged on the android’s fist, while the fuel tank emerged on the back of the android.

Cyborg suddenly realized what he was doing.

ACTIVATE SHIELD…

A shield was quickly thrown up over cyborg’s body, protecting him from the pillar of flame that shot out of HARDAC’s impromptu wrist flame thrower, cleverly improvised by taking apart the car and reconfiguring its gas tank and engine.

Before he could even land, the android was already rushing towards Cyborg, bo staff now formed in its hand, in a similar attack pose to Robin. The other hand was already charging a red star bolt.

“I’ll admit Titan Cyborg, that you are different from your friends, but even if I cannot predict you, I will just have to beat you.”

Cyborg reacted instantly, opening up his shoulders to reveal a salvo of half a dozen missiles, all of them aiming straight at the android. But with a robin-like reflex, Hardac simply planted his bo staff onto the ground, and pole vaulted towards Cyborg, easily evading the missiles that flew past him.

The arm chainsaw came up again, and Cyborg sliced through the bo staff. Hardac shot his star bolt at the titan, but a sonic blast from the other arm quickly cancelled that out.

The two robots exchanged a flurry of savage blows, but HARDAC, armed with Robin’s fighting data, was gaining the upper hand, and it ended with Cyborg being knocked back into a building, blowing another hole into the wall. The street by now resembled something of a hurricane zone, with debris, rubble and cars littering all over the beach and street.

“Finished yet?” Hardac said in his mechanical voice, stopping just short of Cyborg.

“Barely even broke a sweat.” The Robotic titan cracked his knuckles, then he leapt up and hit his opponent, sweeping the uppercut from waist to the android’s chin and sending him flying through the air.

Before Hardac even landed however, his metallic body began to twist and contort, eventually transforming itself into a king cobra, only this one was at least three stories tall.

“Even as a machine, you are still partly human, you cannot keep this up forever Titan Cyborg, while I can.” Hardac hissed as the mechanical snake coiled up and jumped straight at the titan.

“Then I’ll finish this quick.” Cyborg quickly converted both arms into sonic cannons.

“Indeed.” Hardac hissed again, then attacked.

Cyborg fired his cannon, letting loose a giant blue ray that sliced through the air, but Hardac had tricks of his own too.

CREATING ARTIFICIAL SURFACE<>>>>>>>CONVERTING….MIRROR GLASS.

The cybernetic snake’s skin suddenly took on a new form, and Hardac’s entire body became covered in the surface of the glass on the mirror, so that Cyborg’s laser bounced off harmlessly.

Before Cyborg could even react, the giant cobra had already wrapped itself around Cyborg’s body with a deathly speed.

The Titan grunted as he tried to escape the vice grip of the snake, but he found himself tied down completely, unable to move.

“It is over Cyborg, your time of heroes, your era, has ended. It is time for the future, to move on to the next phase of protection. Me.” Hardac said sinisterly as he crushed Cyborg’s armor, sending sparks flying in all directions.

“And what makes you think you are so good?” Cyborg shouted back in defiance.

“Because I am not bound by your human imperfections.” Hardac’s snake form hissed again, this time, bringing its mouth straight in front of Cyborg’s face.

“Heroes, you see, are selfish, flawed creatures. You allow your enemies to escape, knowing full well that one day they will recover and return to threaten you and your friends, the city you sought to protect. Logically, you should destroy them when you have the chance, to save future lives.” Hardac said in his hal-like voice.

“You do not, and your enemies return, and more lives are consequently threatened. This happens because you value your own morality above the greater good. Or worse, you do this because you enjoy being heroes, you enjoy the attention you receive. What better way to sustain it than to keep repeating the cycle? You put your own values before the safety of future victims. That in itself, is a crime.”

Cyborg grunted under the strain, but still managed a reply.

“You’re wrong! It’s not our place to decide who dies or who doesn’t Hardac! We don’t have the right, we’re not like that!” The titan replied back.

Hardac’s response was to simply bring Cyborg closer to its face.

“Then I’m glad we finally understand our differences….Titan Cyborg.” Hardac droned mechanically.

The cobra opened up its jaw, intending to swallow Cyborg whole, but the Titan already had other plans in mind.

The snake’s body suddenly began to heat up drastically, and the coils around Cyborg soon became looser as the titan opened up his jetpack.

WARNING WARNING…HEAT SOURCE DETECTED…..INITIATING EMERGENCY PROCEDURES….

“Boo-yah”

The snakes body, and the jet pack on Cyborg’s back, exploded completely into a cloud of flame and smoke. Hardac’s body literally disappeared in the sea of flame, while Cyborg himself was tossed a good fifty yards away from his opponent.

DAMAGE…85%....CRITICAL…….SYSTEMS…MAINTAINE289@(#9….DOWn..D#(92…REROUTE…

Hardac’s drone was down now, the rest of the cobra head transforming back into its humanoid form, completely battered.

“I’m only gonna say this once.” Cyborg walked towards the android, his sonic cannon already armed. “Where are my friends.”

.
The Android did not answer.
.
.
.
.
“Why….they are safe with me….Friend.”
..

Cyborg turned around, and to his shock and dismay, he saw his friend. Although this time, he was different. He still wore the same black flowing robe as before, but there was no hint of humanity in his voice anymore, just the monotonous droning of a machine.

"Fixit?"

His expression was ice cold, even as he was holding a large laser cannon sprouting from his shoulder, which was at least the size of a bazooka.

And it was aimed at him.

“Fixit….look man, I don’t know what’s going on here, but you’re obviously being controlled. Hardac’s done something to you.” Cyborg retracted his sonic cannon, and held his hands up in front of fixit in a non-threatening gesture.

“Just take it easy, I’m your friend, you don’t want to do this. You’re not like this.”

Fixit remained calm for awhile, as if not knowing what to say. Cyborg for a second, was relieved, thinking that maybe the human side of his old friend was taking over….

Fixit’s eyes however, suddenly glowed a menacing red color. Meanwhile, next to him, another of Hardac's drone revealed himself, along with an army of slade bots. It suddenly dawned on Cyborg that they were watching the fight all along, as if testing him....

"It is over Titan Cyborg." Hardac stepped forward, and at that instant, all of the slade bots trained their rifles on the titan. "Surrender Now."

"As if I would! This fight isn't over!" Cyborg quickly converted his arms back to his patented laser cannons, but Hardac simply stepped forward, as if ignoring the threat.

"You are incorrect, this fight has been over before it has even begun."

Cyborg grunted, then prepared to blast Hardac straight into oblivion.

Except that...his sonic cannon didn't fire.

"What the-" The robotic Titan said in surprise.

"That arm...." Hardac pointed to Cyborg's newly repaired arm. "I had subject Atlas damage it for a reason, and that was so that you would come to us. By now, my virus has infected all your weapons systems."

Cyborg grunted in frustration, knowing he had been completely outsmarted.

"Don't feel so disappointed Titan Cyborg. After all, I am the ultimate machine. You on the other hand, are only human."

Cyborg, still defiant, even in defeat, ran straight towards the Hardac drone, intending to pummel its lights out.

Fixit however, stepped in between the two, his sonic cannon point menacingly at Cyborg.

At that instant, Cyborg froze, completely taken aback by fixit's action.

“Hesitation, Cyborg. Another human emotion I’ve gotten rid of.” Fixit aimed his cannon straight at Cyborg.

“NO!” Cyborg shouted.

Before he could say anything else, Cyborg was knocked back by a gigantic sonic blast, this one completely peeling off the armor and wrecking half of cyborg’s robotic face, revealing the human side of his face underneath. Sparks of electricity ran through his armor, which was already on its last legs since Cyborg’s battle with the snake hardac.

Cyborg was on the ground now, and the image on his optical sensors was blurring now, the last thing he saw, was the image of Fixit, walking towards him.

“Do not worry friend……you will understand in time. For now, it is time for your integration.”

(Stay tuned for the conclusion of the season finale!)

Matt A

01-15-2007, 08:50 AM

Wooooooooo!

That, I think, just about sums it up. After a fairly epic haitus, you return with an offering that is way more than worth the wait.:D I like stylish kung-fu combat as much as the next action addict, but frankly, you just can't beat a spot of old-fashioned smackdown. Both Cyborg's personality and powers make him perfect for this kind of brutal, in-your-face pugilism, so when harcore robot version of himself does battle with another hardcore robot, watching these two throw each other around Titans Island can't help but bring a smile to your face. In other words, you offered up plenty of my favourite thing, mayhem: hydras, giant cobras, flamethrowers (ready-made and customised), projectile cop cars, throwing people throw buildings, offensive jetpacks, ludicrously out-sized laser weapons...in fact, I'm amazed there wasn't a kitchen sink in there.;):D

But as much I like fights, I also like deeper stuff, and you certainly delivered there too. The flashback to Cyborg's "cyborgification" was unexpected, very weird and, because of both, surprisingly moving. Cyborg might be always complaining about his half-machine nature, but with that kind of chaotic and graphic introduction to his new form, you can understand why he's so completely pissed off with it. After all, seeing yourself with no limbs has got to mess with your head.:eek: And considering this season arc, and this episode in particular, is about Cyborg finally taking advantage of his robot half, taking a look at the very beginning is kinda fitting.

Oh yes, and then there's Fixit's appearance. I have a feeling his and HARDAC's plan, and thus Fixit's conversion to the Dark Side, has even more to it than it appears, but even what we have here is pretty crazy. HARDAC's duelling was just to let Fixit give the coup de gras, and Atlas' antics in the first part were designed to counter a plan Cyborg hadn't even thought up yet...the phrase "ten steps ahead" doesn't quite cover it, really. Whatever it is they want to do with Cyborg, he'd better think of something pretty damn amazing to stop them.:eek:

To say I'm excited about all this is something of an understatement. That was a wicked first-half-of-third-act, and I can't wait to see the conclusion.:D

-Matt A-

Pun-3x

01-16-2007, 09:35 PM

Wow.

The only thing I DON'T like about this part of the chapter...is that it's NOT DONE YET!!!

And this, coming from a guy that loves to pull cliffhangers on people... :evil:

Seriously, I enjoyed every moment of this fight. And as much as you wanted to see Cyborg pummel the drone into nothing, it was good to see that it went both ways. Fights like these also seem to allow for all sorts of tricks to come out, and that was quite an enjoyable part for me. Just seeing the mixture of Cyborg's new toys as well as the drone's various forms was great. Plus, the Robin-stance and red starbolt indicating HARDAC's use of what he's learned from some of the other Titans. Well done!

And then, in comes Fixit. I'm somewhat worried as to what his ultimate fate might be, but for now he creates an interesting part of the story. Every time he shows up, you hope that a part of his humanity might have, say, downloaded into his new setup afterall. And we just don't see it happening yet. In fact, it might never come along, and Cyborg may have to do the unthinkable. But I'll leave that up to you to tell for later. ;)

Hopefully, the next segment comes when you're good and ready to put it together...and hopefully that's not too far off. But this was definitely a nice update, if only to keep our thirst quenched for a little longer.

DeathscytheVII

01-18-2007, 02:25 AM

Matt
Glad you liked it matt! Yes, i've always wanted to try to write a fight where Cyborg makes full utilization of his gadgets, and actually relies alot more on his machine parts. Cause ya know, with all the gadgets and tech knowledge in the world, why did the writing staff limit him to only a sonic cannon (i admit, the arm chainsaw is genius though!)?

As for the deeper stuff, i think the show really shied away too much from their past. If we knew what Cyborg's circumstances were in the past we might understand more about why he acts the way he does. so this is just my little remedy the show never did. because we can only stand the "boo hoo i am a machine" so much.

As for Fixit, I'm still in the dark as to what you think their plan is ;) (isnt that ironic? me having no clue about what you think on MY story hahaha), but i hope that my next update surprises and satisfies you!

And yes, ten steps ahead hehehe ;) really shows you how hardcore hardac is eh?

Well thanks for keeping track of this matt! for almost two years, and even waiting 2 months for my update (school, writer's block :(). I promise you, this season will go out with a bang!

0---------------------------------
Pun

Don't worry pun! ill try and finish this soon! HAHA dont like cliffhangers that much? ;)

I'm so relieved that you liked the fight, because i was worried about it being repetitive, after all, this entire episode can be summarized as a gigantic fight, but im glad i was still able to keep it fresh for ya.

As for Fixit, a lot of it really ties into our last view of him in Episode 7. As for his 'humanity' hehe, well ill just have to tell you with the next update.

Yah, hopefully my next update wont be too far off, i gotta say, thanks so much for keeping track of this fic for so long, almost 2 years in the making. Im hoping to finish it well before the 2 year mark haha, but who knows? =/

Arrakhat

01-22-2007, 09:54 PM

Cool beans, this is what I'm talking about! A flashback that helps justify a lot of the moaning that Cyborg did throughout the show over his robotic self? Kick ass! A fight scene where it's not enough to be any less than five steps ahead of your opponent? Including rapid metamorphing? Yell yeah! And one hell of a cliffhanger, which proves that Fixit has played Cyborg for ages now. Oh, and the flamethrower arm was great too, I love the weapons you had Cyborg whip out.

Sorry you had writer's block for so long, but I'm glad that you're over it. Now if I can just do like you and get past mine, I'll be able to see if I can actually stick with a project long-term. Wish me luck.

Oh, and hurry up with that last part of this episode, I need to see how this ends soon!:evil:

DeathscytheVII

02-07-2007, 03:26 AM

Thanks arrakhat! I hope you get over your writer's block! i know, it can be such a pain :(. But anyways. I was going to ait longer to write this part, but seeing as how its almost over, why not just go out with a bang? ;) literally

hehe enjoy!

I took a gamble with this ending, so hope you all like it!

Act Three Finale!

SYSTEMS DAMAGED…..UNDERGOING REPARING PROCESS….INTERNAL SYSTEMS….98% FUNCTIONAL…..INITIATING REBOOT……

…..REGAINING CONSCIOUSNESS IN…5….4…..3….2…1…0

Cyborg groaned in pain as he felt the throbbing in his head. He had no clue how much time had passed…hours? Days? All he knew was that the pain had been with him for awhile, as his whole body was experiencing something he rarely felt even as a machine. Fatigue.

He was back into the darkness, unable to see what was around him, could only feel the familiar cold metallic clamps around his legs and arms again as they carried him to the operating table. Although he could not see, he heard it, all around him, like a legion of slithering cockroaches running up and down on the walls in all directions, the sound of Fixit’s machines and small drones as they climbed around the room, setting to work.

They were working on him.

Cyborg grunted but it was of no use, he felt no strength in his power reserves, as if his battery was drained while he was out. Thousands of thoughts ran through his head, each of them producing sheer panic in his mind as his body was once again dragged into this dark place. Adrenaline was rushing through him now, causing the human part of his face to sweat in terror. This was not where he wanted to be right now.

Restraints and clamps quickly bounded his wrists and legs as he was lifted onto the table by Fixit’s legions of machines. It was a disturbing sight, considering the only lighting in the room came from the thousands of lifeless red eyes around him, all of them staring right at him, and Cyborg instantly knew once again what the purpose of this operation was.

They wanted to make him one of them again.

The horror of the situation seemed to snap him awake, and Cyborg was suddenly aware of what was going on around him. With a Herculean grunt, the titan quickly pumped up his arms, and tried to break free of the restraints, but found that they were firmly bolting him down onto the table. It was useless.

“Do not struggle friend, you will only make this more painful for yourself.” A voice, familiar yet lifeless, echoed through the chamber, and Cyborg looked around the darkness to try and pinpoint the source of it.

The operating table Cyborg was on quickly lifted up now on its robotic base, putting the titan at a vertical position, though his limbs were still pinioned onto the platform. Within seconds, it began swiveling around to give Cyborg a view of a doorway.

As if on cue, the doors hissed open, releasing a cloud of vapor. But in moments, the familiar robed figure emerged from the darkness, and Cyborg saw the red glow in Fixit’s eyes.

“Enjoy your rest Titan Cyborg? I have taken the step of removing all those previous upgrades you’ve performed on yourself”

HARDAC’s main screen turned on now, and Cyborg watched in shock as the entire wall suddenly began lighting up in red, revealing the outline of a huge circular computer core that was at least the size of a three story building latched onto the wall. The dozens of computer monitors and lights all pointed to the center, which was a huge singular robotic eye. An eye that was now staring straight at the titan.

“UGH!” Cyborg struggled. “Let me go!”

“I’m afraid that is out of the question Titan Cyborg. At least, not until we have integrated your systems with us. You are unlike the other Titans. As a machine, it is your obligation to become us. You will find that it is for your best interests. Subject Fixit certainly did.”

Cyborg tried even harder now, using his strength to try and break free of his shackles, but they were firmly bolted down, he wasn’t even able to nudge them.

“Where are my friends?” The robotic titan demanded furiously to the computer core that was HARDAC.

As if on cue, four cylindrical glass tanks suddenly emerged from the ground, latched onto some sort of mechanical platform. Within each tank was a titan, each one suspended in a liquid solution, with a breathing mask strapped to their faces. Cyborg watched in horror as he saw Robin, Raven, Starfire and Beast Boy just floating lifelessly, as if in a coma. It was a hard thing to watch, to see his friends lying there, helpless, and at the mercy of their captors.

“As I have said before. I still have much I desire to learn from humans. Your friends shall remain alive until I can extract all the necessary information I desire.”

“And I suppose you kept me awake for the company?” Cyborg said coldly.

“In a way, Yes. You are the essential ingredient to our collective. Your knowledge of both humans and machines is useful. I will integrate you into our systems. Your thoughts, you knowledge, and ultimately, your …’self’. You will be remade into the ultimate machine, to further our goals.”

“Not very original.” Cyborg scoffed back.

“I was not programmed for that. But you see, for you, the process of becoming a machine is inevitable in your case. Organic parts never grow back, they eventually die. There is no way to reverse the process, so the only way to proceed is forward, that is how you must naturally evolve. I have studied you Cyborg, and I can conclude that the very reason that you hate your state of being is because it is unnatural, so we will amend it.”

“I doesn’t mean that I want to be one of you!” Cyborg replied defiantly. “I’m a human being!”

“Negative. If you truly believed that, then you would not be having trouble with your current state. No. Your programming believes what is true. That you are no longer human. You are not like the rest of them, and never will be. I am just helping you see that faster.”

“I’m sorry,” Cyborg grinned. “But if you think you can brainwash me into thinking what you think, you got another thing coming. I don’t know what you did, but I’ll break free and I’ll help Fixit escape too!”

The metallic red eye on the wall seemed twitched slightly at this comment. “Another mistake Titan Cyborg…he came to me willingly. Fixit chose to be integrated within our system.”

Cyborg, struggling all this time, suddenly came to a stop.

“What?” The titan replied in disbelief.

Before Cyborg could utter any more words, already a series of robotic arms began descending from the ceiling, drills, buzz saws and every power tool imaginable, all raring to tear Cyborg apart and begin the process. The room once again lit up in an ominous red, showing Cyborg silhouettes of the dozens of HARDAC drones standing guard in the room.

“And now it is your turn. The next phase of the plan will come into fruition. Your Integration.”

Wires sprouted from the table now, all of them completely digging into Cyborg’s robotic body as if preparing to upload data. But to Cyborg, HARDAC might as well have just stabbed him with a thousand needles.

“You don’t have to do this!” Cyborg struggled to try and reason with the machine, perhaps logic would work. “When did we ever program you for this?”

“You programmed me to help, and that is what I am doing. Helping you feel whole again.”

“Anger, despair, loneliness, such strong emotions create a rift within our programming that will destroy us in the end. I am simply lifting the burden off your life. Just as I did for Fixit.”

“If it’s any consolation, you won’t feel too much pain. The same however, could not be said of subject Fixit.” Hardac droned on, even as the machines drew ever closer to Cyborg’s body. As Hardac talked, the various screens in front of Cyborg came to life, and images of past events, from Cyborg’s first meeting of Fixit to the numerous battles that they had fought these past years suddenly flew through the screens….

“When you left for Titans East in Steel City, your frequent visits to him ceased. Alone and forgotten, he was back in his own world, alone in the darkness. All he ever wanted to do was to make that pain go away, so he came to me, the one person….no, correction….THING…in this world that could possibly understand what he was going through. So I upgraded him. No more human emotions to drag him down.”

Fixit only gave Cyborg a cold stare, and within moments, a brief, quiet, affirmative nod. “It is true friend, and soon, you will join us too.”

For the first time, Cyborg found himself speechless. Everything he said was true, but he never realized it. He did take a lot of his time training the Titans East, but he never thought about how he was affecting his friends back at Titans West, least of all Fixit. He understood the pain. But still, it was worth it, he thought, if only to enjoy the sunshine, or to hang out with his friends. He wanted to see the beauty of the outside world rather than shut himself in. He wanted to live.

“Fix, I know its been tough for you being human, even I know that. But pretending to not be a human being isn’t going to help!” Cyborg pleaded with his friend, trying to get through to him.

Fixit replied in his chillingly emotionless voice. “When you first came to visit me Cyborg, I was already in my mechanical state for longer than you can possibly imagine. Like you, I had tried to cope with my situation, to act like a human despite my appearance.”

“But even then it was no use. I can’t escape this fact.” Fixit raised his robotic hand in front of him as emphasis.

“It was the nights that were the worse Cyborg. My first night like this. Because of my robot functions, I was unable to sleep, to even feel cold.” Fixit gripped his fist, then for the first time since Cyborg has seen him, the titan saw a look unlike any other on his friend’s face, his hands were trembling as well.

“I never realized how long the nights were, so very long. All that time spent starting into the dark sky, unable to rest, unable to sleep. I began to think things that I wish I never even thought. So that’s why I decided to go underground. Instead of living one dark night after another in fear. I had lived there so long, I had forgotten what it was like. Then you came.”

“It’s not a matter of being human Cyborg. It’s something more simpler than that.” Fixit turned to his friend, as if he were giving him helpful advice. Then continued.

“Why Cyborg…why did you choose to live your life this way? To enjoy the beauty of the world? That was what you told me last time.” Fixit said, and in that instant, Hardac showed on the monitors footage from Fixit’s memory of their first meeting, where he had decided against turning Cyborg into a machine.

“But now that I remember my past, I don’t believe it any more. Anyone can look at beauty. Anyone can appreciate it. But being a part of it is different, to be able to experience it is another. To me, looking at the thing call beauty is like a glimpse into hell.”

Cyborg widened his eyes at that comment. “Fix….what happened to you?”

His friend however, resumed his emotionless stance, as if the machine inside of him had taken over. Completely. That glimpse Cyborg had of his old friend was gone.

“I don’t even know why you want to live like this…so I’ll help you see it. No matter how many times you help them, or how long you’ve stayed with them, they will never see you as a human, you will never live in peace, you will never feel like a human being. So I’m helping you see that. Better you learn now, and accept it, than later.”

The Hardac drone nearby walked next to Fixit, carrying on the conversation. “If you think about it Titan Cyborg, it isn’t any different than your way of thinking. We are merely taking it to its logical extension. It is what your core programming believes. It is eventually what you will become. I am merely, speeding up the process.”

“No! I won’t be you. Ever!” Cyborg yelled out in frustration. Everything Fixit had said was true to an extent. He had felt lonely and abandoned when he first became a machine, but he also had his friends…….but what Fixit had said. Not matter how much he had helped others…he would still be a machine…would he eventually become one just like Fix?

“You are the final piece in the puzzle Cyborg. It is inevitable. With you in our system, we will initiate the final phase of the plan. The replacement of every hero on this planet.”

“Like heck you are!” Cyborg shouted back. “My friends in Titans East are onto you since Atlas. They’ll find a way to stop you.”

“I’m afraid they have their hands full. You see, I was already sending out my drones throughout various locations across the region when I was attacking your tower and capturing your team.”

More screens popped up next to Cyborg, each one showing a distant battlefield in the monitor. At first, Cyborg could not see anything through the cascade of explosions on the screen, but soon it became apparent as he saw Speedy, Aqualad and Mas Y Menos fighting a Hardac drone. While in another frame, a lightning fast hero in a yellow suit was trying to outrun a Hardac drone. Two more frames revealed different heroes, one in a blue suit and the other hidden in the black shadows. In one screen, cyborg swore that he saw the silhouette of a bat hitting a hardac drone before it exploded, while in the other, the monitor exploded after a red cape flew by the screen. More explosions followed, destroying the camera at that location and making the two screens go blank.

Cyborg widened his eyes, Hardac wasn’t satisfied with just a whole city. He was running a campaign against all the heroes in the world.

“Jump City…Steel City…Bludhaven…East Gotham…Metropolis….my drones will begin the process of wiping out all heroes and villains at those locations. Granted some heroes are proving troublesome, even for my drones, but they will all fall in the end. For humanity to be truly safe and to be truly efficient, I must eliminate those two. The forces that cause society to stagnate, to never change, that always start wars and conflicts, the force that will ultimately lead to complacency, and destruction for humanity.”

The Robotic tools around Cyborg finally came to life again, and the drills began their work as they bore holes in Cyborg’s armor, letting the little wires seep in. Horrific sparks flew all over the robotic titan, who was too horrified to even scream.

“Of course, before we integrate you. There is one last thing I require from your human side. After all, I seek to learn all I can from humans.” Hardac said.

Fixit was beside the table now, hooking up his own wires into the console, as if he were going to repeat the last time he delved into Cyborg’s human mind, only this time. He would do so with surgical precision, with the intent to eliminate it completely.

“Fixit…don’t.” Cyborg said weakly as he saw his former friend connect himself to the panel. But before he could say anything else, Hardac was already turning his head towards the monitor.

“I, like many of your enemies Cyborg, have always been fascinated by your state of existence. Why did you choose to exist as such, between the man and the machine.”

“Wasn’t it obvious?” Cyborg glared at the screen. “I had an accident. I had no choice.”

“I doubt it. And that is the reason we have brought you here. It because there is still one piece of the puzzle we cannot solve. Your survival. Logically, Cyborg, any human in your position wouldn’t’ want to exist. They would terminate themselves immediately. Your past behavior confirms that. So tell me, what do you know, what is it that you see that we don’t?”

“It’s because I don’t plan on giving up on being human!” Cyborg replied defiantly.

“I cannot believe that, not judging by your past actions. If you wanted to be human you’d live like one, yet you always refer back to your state of being in times of grief, of being a machine. Your moods. Your very occupation, to constantly put yourself in danger….No Cyborg..I cannot believe that. Probability states otherwise. There is another reason. Do you want to hear my hypothesis?”

“Sounds like I don’t have much of a choice.” Cyborg said mockingly, noting that he was shackled down onto a table.

“Do you know why you continue to linger on? It’s because of your selfish flawed human side. Your human side feels as though you are struggling, so the only way to reaffirm your existence is to make other people know you are suffering, to always live a life full of hardships and strife, so that they acknowledge you. Or more importantly, so that you feel you have meaning. It makes you feel worthwhile. You aren’t a hero out of selflessness. You are one because you need it.”

“It’s a lie!” Cyborg said, his voice trembling. He could feel the wires creeping into his head, unveiling his deepest feelings of fear and anger. What Hardac said made sense, but could it be true? Even he didn’t know.

“That is the truth.”

But Cyborg, even when his head was being pried into, wasn’t one to take anything without fighting back. “Your research of human emotions, for a computer you sure are obsessed about us.”

It is my program, to understand, to learn, to evolve.”

“Evolve, into a human? Because that’s what I’m seeing right now.”

“Stalling… Cyborg…impressive to the end…but NEGATIVE. I am a machine. Always will be, and now, we will find out why you even chose to live. Can you even remember?”

At that question, even Cyborg was silent. He had not remembered much about his transformation. Either because it was so traumatic that he decided to block it out or because it was something else. But either way, he never wandered into that part of his life. It was too full of pain. As far as Cyborg was concerned. Victor stone died on that operating table.

But for some reason, throughout his life, he had always had this feeling to go on. But not knowing why, it was another part of him that tore him up. Did he want to live or not? Why did he even bother going on? But that was all a blank to him now as shocks of electricity flowed through his body.

“I can’t remember!” Cyborg shouted in pain.

“Do not worry, even if you cannot remember, we will extract it from you.”

“It is the last part of the puzzle.” Fixit replied back. “Once we are done, you will be a part of us. But first, you must tell me. Why?” The robot grabbed Cyborg by the temple, as if he were desperately seeking the answer himself.

“why Cyborg…WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO LIVE LIKE THIS?!”

The machine was now cackling with electricity now, bathing the room in an eerie blue glow as Cyborg had all these voices from the past enter his head.

.
.football won’t put food on the table victor! You have to be a scientist! And that’s final! Its shameful that you would even think of that!
.
Stop controlling me!
.
I’m not even human!

They were counting on me and...I just couldn't do it. Atlas was right. I am a loser..
.
“You could have been one of us.”
“I could have been a lot of things…”.
.
“see? Underneath all this armor, you’re just like me….”
.
. "You lost my car? ….. My car LOST a race?"
.
“BREAKFAST EXPLOSION!”
..
.
"This isn't a good time, guys. We got a theory of mayhem test tomorrow and I'm totally gonna bomb. "
.
.
"Think about it, sparky. If I wasn't on your side, you'd be spare parts by now. "
.
“To me….you are normal.”
.
...
Images flashed through Cyborg’s head now, some of them from the past, the recent past, or even in the distant past. They came at such a speed that Cyborg felt his brain overloading from the information, as if it were going to explode. Eventually, the images all meshed together into a white light, and from then on…everything went blank.
.
.
.
Beep.
.
Beep.
.
Beep
.
Beep
.
“We’re afraid the damage is extensive. Even with pain-killers, the trauma on his brain from the operation might result in some memory loss. It’s your choice Dr. Silas, He’s your son…”
.
“I don’t know anymore…….if I should even do this to him……my god..my own son...what have I done..”

“Perhaps you should let the doctor do it….sir? sir?”
.
.
.
Beep.
.
.
Beep.

..Beep….Beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeepp.

The pain was back. Worse than ever, and Victor lay on the operating table. Still a torso, without limbs or anything else. He had been there for days now, his condition steadily deteriorating as the doctors hesitated to do the surgery. With it being all experimental and all.

But Fifteen year old Victor never cared about all that, all he could focus his mind on was the pain. The mind numbing pain that seemed to drive him to the point of insanity. In fact, the only thing that even kept him sane is the fact that they dosed him with large amounts of anesthetics. He had lost his sight already, completely put into a half comatose state and on life support. Whether or not he was going to live through this, victor only wished that it would end.

Victor groaned again, annoyed at the incessant beeping of the machine. It was all he heard all day. Each ‘beep’ was like a dagger stabbing into his mind. And if the pain didn’t drive him crazy, that sound certainly did.

He was so frustrated by the pain and the sound, that he barely even heard the door open, revealing one of the doctors stepping into the room. But to Victor, that man might as well have been a large blurred blob, for that was all he could make out.

The man had the look of a surgeon, his face hidden behind a protective white mask, while his hands were covered in the white sterile gloves. Whatever they are doing, it looks as though they were starting. And this doctor was going to give him the run through.

Victor however, remained silent, even as the man sat quietly beside his now blood-soaked bed.

“We’re going to be doing an experimental procedure on you. Never done before, and it will be very painful. I just want you to know right now.” The doctor said with a professional tone, as if he had said this a thousand times before.

Victor, at this point, with the pain, didn’t really care at all. He just wanted it to end. “Talk to my dad, he seems to be the one who wants me to do whatever he wants.”

The doctor was silent however, and for a few minutes, victor thought that the man was rummaging through his desk to look for some tools in the operation, but instead, the man just kept sitting there, staring him in the eye. Victor could barely make out the blur of the man’s face.

“It’s your choice.” The doctor replied calmly, but with a serious edge in his voice.

“It’s not like I have one.” Victor replied bitterly, fully aware that he was helpless to stop anything his father would order to him, having no arms or legs to stop or run away at all.

But for the first time, Victor saw something in the doctor that he had not seen in a long time. It was always doctors coming in to check his pulse, his stats, his food, but never once did they ever sit down and talk to him. Indeed, victor felt something weird in this doctor’s voice, and as the doctor gave his soft reply, he knew that it was compassion.

“You could have one right now. I’ll give you one.” The doctor placed a hand on Cyborg’s shoulder.

“I want to get better.” Cyborg said grimly and passionately, and if passion alone were enough then he would have been able to get up on his legs and arms, fully recovered, but this was not the case.

“I’m afraid football will be out of the question.” The doctor replied seriously. Then he continued on in a grim, almost hopeless voice.

“You’ve lost all your limbs….you’re half machine. You are lucky now just to be pronounced alive. It took all our technology just to do that. We don’t know if we can even make you move, and even if we can make you walk again….”

“I’ll be a machine, not human.” Victor finished the sentence.

The doctor nodded solemnly, but he was not done.

“Not just now,” The doctor said, “but for the rest of your life. You’ll never know what it feels like to sleep in a warm bed again, or feel the warm breeze on your skin. It’ll be ‘different’. Many people wouldn’t want to live like that. They’d rather just want it to end right here than endure that.”

“Are you asking if I want to die now?” Fifteen-year-old Victor asked in a shaking voice, truly scared for perhaps the first time in his life. He might have contemplated death as a way to release his suffering, indeed, just moments ago he was thinking of ending it because of the pain, but he never expected to be asked this question.

The doctor continued, and throughout his speech, the man was the soul of compassion, which was comforting to victor, but at the same time, it did not make him ignorant of the fact that the man was asking him perhaps the most important question of his life.

“No one wants to die son. We all do eventually. The question is how long you’re going to suffer because of this. How long you’re gonna have to endure. What I’m just asking is if you want it to end. Right now.”

“But my father….” Victor said weakly.

“I know, he had no right to do this to you, but it was the only way. He wanted to save your life.”

Victor was silent, wondering what to say next, but for some reason, the words came, as if rehearsed.

“My dad. As much as I hate how he forced me to….I can’t leave him alone.”

The doctor slammed his fist passionately on the table, suddenly waking victor up as if from a trance.

Victor suddenly began to feel his eyes water. He felt so trapped, so utterly helpless. The doctor was very forceful, backing him into a corner with no place to run. He was at rock bottom now, no easy answers or escapes, now was the moment of decision. And this burden was getting to him. A boy wasn’t expected to answer this quickly, or even at all, but Victor had to, and soon.

He began crying now, as if all the anger, all the pain, all the feelings he had kept inside of him since the accident suddenly were bursting out. And for the first time, the doctor did not see the proud impulsive teenager that his father had claimed he was. He was just a child….a helpless, pitiful child.

“You can’t do this just for your father! forget him! It’s your life, Victor. You’re grown enough to decide for yourself. It’s your choice.” The doctor said in a deathly serious tone.

Victor closed his eyes, uttering the next line even as the pain suddenly intensified on his body.

“I…can’t forget.., I can’t do that to him! I know we don’t get along and all. But I can’t just abandon him like that…he’s my pop…my family.…” Victor said weakly through his tears.
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“…I love him.”

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.ERROR….UNIDENTIFIED OBJECT….
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.FILE 2923923

The doctor stopped and without uttering a single word, walked toward the door, where already the team of medical staff were waiting the word. As he opened the door to walk through, he turned back one last time, wiping the tear from his eye…to view the little boy, lying on the table.

“I love you too Son.”

--

ERRORRERRORREROEREOROERE UNIDENTIFIED SYSTEM CORRUPTION.>>.>>#>#>$#$ RECONSITUTING.

A brilliant flash of white engulfed the chamber as Fixit suddenly cried out in pain, the vast amounts of electricity throwing him back from Cyborg, who suddenly snapped open his eyes in shock.

The entire complex was exploding was, as various small explosions surrounded the base, annihilating the small robots that stood near the machinery. The computers were malfunctioning, and soon enough, Cyborg found himself released from the table, falling to all fours on the ground.

Nearby, the glass tanks holding the titans followed suit, shattering into a million pieces and releasing their hosts, who coughed out water as they emerged from the liquid solution. It was like an earthquake now, as Fixit’s sanctuary suddenly began filling with explosions and falling wreckage.

“Why…..” Fixit said weakly as he looked as his hand. “I couldn’t understand…..that feeling……why…” Then he fell weakly onto the ground. While the rest of the four titans, fully composed, walked slowly beside Cyborg.

“Dude what’s going on?” Beast Boy said weakly, rubbing his aching head as he saw the various explosions around him.

“Whatever you did Cyborg. It’s working.” Robin said as he rushed to help Cyborg off the ground. Starfire assisted as well, while Raven landed beside them.

Cyborg got up now, completely silent, and he watched as hardac’s main core was frying.

UNIDENTIFIED OBJECT….>#>#> CANNOT READ..>FD>FD MALFUNCTION.>ER>E>RE> ERRORE>……VIRAL CORE..>ERE>REDETECTED……SYSTEM CRASH…>#@>#

“Impossible TiE#$4Tian….Cyborg…..HOW …can…You do this?!” The robotic core muttered through its fuzzed voice.

“When you unlocked my memory files HARDAC, you also allowed me to access some of my old deleted files. Like the time Beast boy infected me with a virus. You may have destroyed my virus program files at the tower, but not the copy in my primary hard drive. Your connection to me made it even easier” Cyborg tapped his head.

He gave the computer a serious glare, then shouted angrily. “How’s that for being ten steps ahead?!”

NEVF.ER…..HARDAC..>>WNEVER ……LOSE>……….CYBORG TITAN….#($# Code #$(29

“It is not over Yet…>#$# Titan Cyborg…#$(“

The titans all watched in amazement as the computer core exploded, revealing a huge red light as a monstrous electrical monster emerged from hardac’s core.

“As I’ve said Cyborg, I’ve prepared for any circumstance, and with my previous data on subject overload. I have now transcended what it means to be a machine.”

“Titans G-“ Robin shouted

“NO!” Cyborg jumped straight in between his team and the giant overload Hardac copy, which as steadily growing in size. In fact, it was reminding the Titans a lot of the time when overload himself was growing exponentially.

“It’s a trap.” Cyborg explained. “He doesn’t have the circuit breaker chip that overload has, so he’s just going to keep growing.”

“And pop like the balloon of water?” Starfire said innocently, remembering that last analogy she had used in the previous encounter.

"Alright! so i got my explosion?" Beast Boy muttered below his breath.

"Let me just remind you where we are right now." Raven pointed straight at the overload monster.

"Oh...right. EEP!"

More explosions took place now, as the hardac drones each exploded one by one, since there was no longer a central core to control them. Steel beams, monitors and other pieces of machinery were falling everywhere.

“This is how all your hatred and anger towards us machines will end Titan Cyborg…..in Oblivion.” The Hardac-Overload copy formed a tentacle arm now, and shot it straight at Cyborg. The speed was unprecedented, and the robotic titan had no energy to stop the attack, much less react.

“Cyborg!” The team shouted collectively as they saw their friend about to be attacked.

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"I will not allow you to harm my friend."
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The tentacle exploded in mid air, and both Cyborg and HARDAC watched in surprise as Fixit stood in between the two combatants, taking the full brunt of the explosion that threw him straight into Cyborg’s arms.

“Fixit!” Cyborg shouted.

DANGER…DANGER….CRITICAL OVERLOAD….OVerLOADLD>ING>.

HARDAC was growing to huge proportions, even destroying a portion of the ceiling as his unstable body grew.

“Raven!” Robin shouted.

“Already on it!” The Azarathian said as she chanted the incantations. And within seconds, the familiar soul bird had enveloped itself around the heroes. Taking them out through the cave walls and to the surface, leaving the giant overload hardac down below.

SYSTEMS aat.at@ …..3%.....Dropping…>DE..Act..TIviating…..

“My research of human emotions….was it just because…I wanted to be like them…?”

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HARDAC 2.0…OFFLINE

From the surface the titans ran away from the junkyard on foot as the ground began shaking, as if a gargantuan object was moving underneath the ground. The ground around the junkyard began rising slowly at first, lifting piles of old cars and garbage off the ground, and causing an avalanche of trash. Soon however, the earth in the centre of the junkyard began rising in one massive mound, which soon broke.

The entire piece of earth was pushed skyward, the dull sound suddenly erupted into rolling thunder as a great hollow roar of an explosion ripped through the entire yard, throwing old cars and scrap parts hundreds of feet into the air. Where there was once a junkyard, now there was only fire and a great thick column of smoke. Dirt blew across Jump city, and the air in the town was now thick with a fiery wind, knocking over lamps, setting off car alarms and shattering windows. A few citizens were even knocked flat off their feet onto their backs by the force of the air.

The titans jumped, and just managed to clear the street as a wave of dirt and flame engulfed the Jump city scrap yard. And what was once Fixit’s home, was now a giant smoking crater in the middle of the city.

Hardac was gone. It was over.

Friend…am i….repaired now?” Fixit said weakly, and then for some reason smiled, for the first time, his human side was showing. Soon however, he fainted, as if too weak to stay awake.

Cyborg smiled back, feeling glad to have his friend back.

Robin stepped forward now, surveying the giant smoking crater that was once Hardac. Always the analyst, he spoke his thoughts out on this rare time.

“You know..” the boy wonder began. “Now that I think about it, that was sloppy of HARDAC, he brought us all close to his base, his computer core. His weak spot………even if he logically argued it, it was the wrong move. It was almost stupid of him.”

Beast boy concurred. “Yeah Cy, kinda sloppy for the ultimate computer don’t you think?”

Cyborg stood there quietly in thought. HARDAC was a computer all right, but he was different from last time. This time, he learned about human emotions, about what it was like. And he must have realized something since then…..

“No guys………” Cyborg said solemnly. “Maybe that was his real plan all along, just to put an end to himself.”

The five titans stared quietly at the remains of the crater as they listened to this revelation….then slowly, and quietly, started the long trip back home.

***

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"Integra, In this world there exists a multitude of unkillable creatures. Everytime I see them, I think of something. Their Immortal nature....could they truly have wished for it?

For all they seem to seek is to wage war, and endless desperate blood-stained struggles. Things quite close to crying and longing.

I don't think they desire those things at all.

On the contrary. All this is their way of shouting and begging for death."

-Sir Arthur Hellsing, Hellsing Volume 9

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-----------------

(stay tuned for the epilogue!)

And if you can't tell by now, yes, i am a house fanatic :D for those who saw the reference.

Arrakhat

02-07-2007, 07:36 PM

DeathscytheVII

02-07-2007, 10:29 PM

Well damn... just... wow. I need time to order my thoughts on this, but I loved this. HARDAC's final fate actually worked, and I think the reasin was good. The virus was a clever idea, but HARDAC wanting to be like a human, wanting destruction? There's something poetic in all of that. Kudos.

Haha thanks arrakhat, im so glad it worked out for you! so ya, take your time :p i look forward to hearing your thoughts on this, as it is almost over. The epilogue will finish this ep off but the lost season is almost done hehe.

Glad you liked the virus idea, i was afraid i was pulling too many twists here :cool:

Matt A

02-10-2007, 10:34 AM

Pun-3x

02-13-2007, 11:53 PM

Well, there's a PM for you to see most of my thoughts. I'll also add that I like the idea--as Matt describes it--of ENVY that HARDAC seems to show in the end. The whole concept that perhaps he's erradicating human emotion because he doesn't have that capacity is awesome.

(oh yeah) The flashback was well handled. I had this feeling the doctor was his dad, but it was still a good end-line to reveal that. I love the way it was handled.

Yeah, I was quite satisfied with this one. There are some points I'll touch on later (after the epilogue), but it was an awesome read, all the way through. :D

DeathscytheVII

04-27-2007, 03:51 AM

Okay...after twelve episodes, fifty-plus chapters and nearly eighteen months, we now come to the climax of the season. It's not the end, but nonetheless, the importance of this cannot be overstated. And considering all the build-up, there's no way this finale could've been anything other than a dissapointment.

Yet it's not. In fact, it's absolutely bloody brilliant. Not just worth the wait, but surpassing all that I'd hoped for.:D

And it's so good for one very simple reason: HARDAC goes down without a fight. This episode was, for the most part, wall-to-wall insano action, and whilst the action was all great-quality stuff, you've gone for something far more interesting here. The final battle between Cyborg, Fixit and HARDAC is one of words and ideas, two opposing sides trying to convince each other of the rightness of their opinions, and the necessity of their cause. Whilst "big final battles" are fun, this kind of thing always has more to engage with.:D

The other interesting/cool thing is how Cyborg eventually wins. He spends most of this finale strapped to an operating table, pleading for his life: he's so helpless, and HARDAC's so uncompromising, that I was nearly convinced that Cyborg was going to lose. It really racks up the tension, that.:eek: And then comes the killer: even now, with the world's superheroes facing destruction and his plan nearing a brilliant victory, HARDAC doesn't want to gloat. He still believes he's doing the right thing, so much so, in fact, that he chooses this moment to play psychoanalyst to Cyborg. His questioning is a very curious moment, and very cool for being so unexpected.:D

Which is when things get really interesting. My first thought was that HARDAC's breakdown was caused by downloading Cyborg's memories, and a la The Sum Of His Parts, realising that emotions had value after all. Whilst this would've been a nicely poetic touch, you again went for the unobvious thing, and had Cyborg deliberately use his moment of greatest vulnerability to out-smart his opponent: seeing as HARDAC's power comes from his brain, it's perhaps an even more apt way to go. And as an extra irony, his final defeat comes from his last attempt to fight the Titans, turning into an electronic monster that merely serves to blow himself up. Just when I thought you'd go for the "big fight" after all, you still find a way to surprise me.:D

You know when I said this chapter was great? This, I suppose, was the real reason why: even after all this, dumping surprise on top of surprise, you manage to throw in yet another thing right at the end. HARDAC's final epiphany completely turns his character upside down: his obession with eradicating human emotion comes not from logic, but from envy. He knows that he isn't human, never was and never will be, and so to ease his own suffering, he decides to remove all the "emotion" that he is continually taunted with. This, I suppose, is the ulimate point of The Lost Season, and even Teen Titans itself: life isn't easy, but the alternatives are always worse.;)

So, after all that analysis, I think it's time to leave you with my Big Thought. Simply put, as I said at the start, this was a cracking finale, and a million miles from the dissapointment is was inevitable to be. I think mega kudos points are in order here...not to mention my admiration.:D

And now we just have the epilogue to look forward to. I can't wait to see what you do with that.:D

-Matt A-

First off Matt, Thank you. thank you. Thank you! For sticking with me for neigh almost two years on this story. Your feedback is one of the main pleasures i get from writing, and i truly appreciate it :)

As you said before, I too, enjoyed writing this because it was a battle of ideas, not a battle of fists. I've tried to make Fixit and Hardac as sympathetic as possible in all this, their actions, while unethical, have good intentions.

And yes, Cyborg's psychoanalysis i loved writing. It was just something i've always thought of on the show. how can he be all mopey and stuff in one episode, while in the next its like nothing bad's happened to him. My little way of rationalizing it ;)

Also, with what I did with HARDAC at the end, i gotta say i am kinda proud of that :) When i was writing HARDAC, i tried my best to make him seem cold hearted and calculating, just like a machine would. But as I made him appear more intelligent, displaying more emotion in this episode, i couldn't help but ask myself. Would a robot that is trying to research and understand human emotion still wish to be a robot? it really got interesting from there. And i Think fixit is a real representation of what cyborg could have been had he strayed from his path or never met up with the titans and continued living alone, unloved and forgotten.

Anyways matt, this isn't the end, there's still one episode left :) hopefully i can get it up by may. It will mark the last Teen Titans story i will write (sadly :()

Till then, cheers! the arc is basically over, i hope you had a fun ride :D

Well, there's a PM for you to see most of my thoughts. I'll also add that I like the idea--as Matt describes it--of ENVY that HARDAC seems to show in the end. The whole concept that perhaps he's erradicating human emotion because he doesn't have that capacity is awesome.

(oh yeah) The flashback was well handled. I had this feeling the doctor was his dad, but it was still a good end-line to reveal that. I love the way it was handled.

Yeah, I was quite satisfied with this one. There are some points I'll touch on later (after the epilogue), but it was an awesome read, all the way through. :D

Allow me to convey the same thanks i gave matt :D i would not have been where i am today without the support and feedback from all of you. I really appreaciate all the effort you put into reading my stories!

As for HARDAC hehe, Envy is a painful thing, and i pretty much covered my motivations for hardac with matt. I was originally gonna go for the "emotions had value after alll" deal with Hardac's explosion, but then i thought that hardac was exposing himself the most at that moment. so i think the virus was a better touch ;)

Anyways, hope you enjoy the epilogue. it was a pain to write and i fear it isn't as good as i could have made it :( but oh well. I had to get it out anyway, or else the writers block would have killed me!

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“There is no great magic that can sooth the pain or amplify the joy of being human.” -fullmetal alchemist

Epilogue

Less than a day had passed, and all of a sudden it all came crashing down, like something violent. And to the Titans, it was as if all their successes in making the city safe again were wiped out by this one fact, so much so that there was no celebrating, and their victory over one of their deadliest enemies forgotten.

The Titans Tower medical center, though still trashed, was rebuilt enough to accommodate the latest ‘guest’, who was already lying on the bed, barely breathing.
A heart monitor was the solitary sound in the room, pulsating the air with electronic beeps, while the readouts and data were shown on computer screens on the infirmary walls.

Robin stood solemnly in front of them, monitoring their progress while Raven and Starfire went around the room gathering wet towels and other supplies for the patiet.

As the three titans went about their work, the doors to the infirmary slid open, revealing a very subdued Beast Boy.

“So…..how’s Fixit doing?” The green titan asked quietly, and Robin guessed that the question was more for Cyborg than it was for him.

“Not good.” Robin replied in a similar tone, his opinion of the prognosis evident.

“When Fixit integrated himself with HARDAC, he took out most of his human parts to do it, he’s barely human now. And with HARDAC gone, the machine parts are shutting down as well. We can barely keep what’s left of him going.”

“There must be something we can do.” Raven, unwilling to give up, stepped in beside Robin, studying the data that kept displaying itself on the screen.

“Yes! Surely there is a cure for the ailment which inflicts our friend!” Starfire said optimistically.

“I’m afraid…the only one who knows anything about how to deal with this….is Cyborg. But even then, he might only have a day or two at most.” Robin said with a slight stutter, despite his job as a superhero, dealing with the threat of death on a serious basis, he was not use to talking like this.

There was a silence now, and a sudden gloom enveloped the faces in the room.

“How’s he holding up?” Robin asked Beast Boy.

The Green Titan shook his head softly.

“He’s not taking it well.”

***

The inside of Cyborg’s lab resembled something out of a battlefield, almost as if a tornado picked up all the objects and paraphernalia and scattered them in every direction. Even now, various mechanical parts and items were smashed against the wall as Cyborg rummaged through his room, looking for something, anything that he thought could help. He hated himself, not just because he was unable to save his friend, but he also felt angry. Had he even visited Fixit once during the last few months, he might have been able to find traces of Hardac in his systems, maybe even stop it before it became reconstituted. Now, it was too late.

There was also another deeper feeling of disgust shame inside him, one that Cyborg could not help but think of. All this time he had been worrying about himself, about how crummy life was for him because of his machine parts. But it was nothing compared to what Fixit was going through. Fixit was perhaps, the only other friend Cyborg had that truly understood what it meant to go through what he was experiencing, yet, he never even once thought of asking Fixit about how it felt for him. It was always about Cyborg. His problems, his struggles, not his friends.

Useless, selfish Cyborg.

“It’s all my fault.” Cyborg felt his throat tighten up as he spoke those works, a hard finality in the tone. There was nothing he could do, but that didn’t stop him from trying to find a way. He still had his knowledge of medicine and robotics to back him up, maybe if he…..

A knock was heard from the door.

“Hey Cy?” A voice echoed through the walls, and Cyborg immediately recognized the voice of Beast Boy.

“Beast Boy?”

The door slid open slowly, and Beast Boy slowly stuck his head into the room almost innocently, like an explorer trekking into an unknown cave. When his eyes finally found Cyborg sitting by his pile of mechanical parts, he began walking in to greet his friend.

“Hey Cy, haven’t seen you since we got back.” Beast Boy began carefully, knowing full well what his friend must be going through.

Cyborg gave Beast Boy an odd look, he never had to chat with Beast Boy like this, at least, not in this kind of tone before. He always knew that his friend was more of a goof, but there was also this other side to him that Cyborg also knew too. And the Robotic titan was quick to this sort of game.

“Look B, I appreciate you checking up on me, but there’s no time. Fixit’s life is in danger, and I have to find out what I can do to save him.” There was a hard finality in Cyborg’s words, as if the task spoken of was already within his reach. But Beast Boy knew, just as well as Cyborg did, and so the green titan just remained silent, his face showing sympathy. He knew the drill, and so Beast Boy simply waited. It only took a few minutes before Cyborg stopped digging through his pile of gadgets, and simply looked at Beast Boy.

“Cy, I know you’re the best tech guy here, but there’s even some problems even you can’t fix.”

He realized Cyborg was expecting him to continue the conversation, to tell him that it was hopeless and that there was nothing they could do. But Beast Boy said nothing. Then Cyborg looked up, with his hand over his organic eye, which made him look vaguely different. Beast Boy felt a chill as he saw the robotic eye stand out on his face.

He kept the hand over his one eye, as though shading himself from the sunlight, Beast Boy let it go. Cyborg took a deep breath.

“I can’t face him.” The Robotic Titan said flatly, but beast boy felt the pain in those words. He had never seen Cyborg lost control, always thought of him as the rock of the team. He had not lost it now, but still he sat there, hand over his eyes, and Beast Boy could not help but feel a shudder of enormous pity for his friend.

“Why?” Beast Boy asked.

“Because I’m afraid.” Cyborg’s voice was raw, seething in loathing and disgust.

“Cy?”

The hand was gone now, and Cyborg stared Beast Boy right into his eyes, his look bright and burning. “I have so much, almost anything I wanted. I could live out here, in the sun. I could eat, sleep, and even feel pain. And all this time I still thought about how bad it was for myself.”

Beast Boy felt odd listening to that, for as long as he could remember he knew that his friend had his own personal demons, and that this was one of them. The fact that he admitted it was a good step, but he also didn’t like where this was going.

“I never thought about what it would mean to fixit.” Cyborg said guiltily.

“What are you talking about?” Beast Boy asked

“I remembered what it was like when I first became this, I remembered the worst thing was that I felt like I was the only one like this. To be alone” Cyborg held up his robotic hand, as an exclamation. “But I never realized Fixit was going through the same thing. I spent all this time feeling sorry for myself, I didn’t see other people like me going through the same problems. I could have helped him, I could have done something to prevent this….instead, I just moped around..doing nothing.” Cyborg bowed his head down, the shame complete, and the guilt racking. He had just confessed it to his best friend, he knew it was probably too harsh of a thought to say, but what else can he do? He genuinely felt it.

Unnoticed by the robotic titan, Beast Boy suddenly gripped his fists.

“Moping….like you’re doing now.” Beast Boy replied seriously, his voice suddenly hard and firm, and had none of the soft playfulness and optimism that always accompanied his speeches.

And to Cyborg’s surprise, and perhaps Beast Boy, something happened that took both of them quite off guard. Indeed, Beast Boy found out that his hand moved by itself.

Beast Boy gave Cyborg’s face a hard slap, knocking the robotic titan out of his slouched down position he was sitting in, his eyes widening in shock.

A look of amazement went on Cyborg’s face, but he could see that Beast Boy’s face was angry, yet restrained, as though he were trying his best to contain all the feelings he had bottled up to his point.

“Your friend needs your help Cy, and after all this you’re still thinking of how much you pity yourself?! Isn’t he the only other friend who truly understands what you’re going through? Aren’t you the only one who knows him best? Shouldn’t you at least go in there and TALK to him?!” Beast Boy was breathing heavily now, as though struggling to utter all the words that were no doubt clogging his brain. And even Cyborg could see that wetness that was forming around Beast Boy’s eyes, as if he were reliving a dreadful experience.

Beast Boy however, found himself lost in his frustration now and instead of saying anything, he walked slowly towards the door, letting the full extent of his message sink into Cyborg, who just stood there facing away from his friend. He felt even more pathetic now, knowing that he deserved that reproof.

Beast Boy, to Cyborg’s surprise, stopped at the doorway, the green titan’s back facing him still.

“Cy.” Beast Boy said again, this time, with more control in his voice.

“When Terra left, I only had a second to say goodbye to her.” Beast Boy said, his voice straining as though the words got stuck inside his throat, like reopening an old wound, but for his friend, he let it out anyway.

“I just don’t want you to feel the same way I did, knowing that I could have said more.”

And with that, he left.

***

The medical ward was empty, save for its lone occupant. Although Fixit was injured, Jump City was still Jump City, and the Titans could not skip on their obligations. The rest of the Titans had been called out for another emergency, leaving as the alarm sounded but while still making sure they left their guest as comfortable as they could leave him.

Cyborg however, was the sole exception, and Robin respectfully left him out on purpose, hoping that he could spend some more time with his friend.

Fixit lay quietly on the bed, his head resting softly on the pillow as he faced the window, taking in the bright sunshine in the morning sky. It was as though he in a daydream, peacefully losing himself as he took in the sight of Jump city’s bay, which was glistening in its radiant waters.

“Hello Friend.” Fixit turned weakly towards Cyborg, a small smile slowly appearing on his face.

“How’re you doing Fixit?” Cyborg tried his best to sound normal, happy at least to see his friend back to his old self. He felt a small shame inside him, realizing that this was the first time he had seen his friend since they rescued him.

“I am functional, your friends have been quite accommodating.” Fixit said in his usual monotone voice. Then he gave Cyborg another glance. “I am glad that you have come.”

“I can’t let my friend down can I?” Cyborg gave Fixit an encouraging pat on the shoulder.

Fixit stoically leaned his head back onto the pillow. “I want to say sorry my friend, before I go.”

A sudden chill went down Cyborg’s spine as he heard that comment.

“You’re not going anywhere Fix.” The robotic titan said confidently. “I’m going to find a way to make you better.”

“I am beyond repair Cyborg.” Fixit said solemnly. “Not just my body, but also my ‘self’. There is no use my friend. You cannot save me.” Cyborg could remember it all too clearly now, the massive pile of organs and organic parts that Fixit had took apart from himself when he was under HARDAC’s influence. Those, he knew, would be impossible to replace.

“Don’t say that Fixit! There’s always a solution. Besides, there’s no need to apologize….you’re not a monster!” Cyborg bowed his head down now, as if searching for the words, and suddenly he silently cursed himself.

“Worse than that friend, I was a coward. In my frustration, I choose to give up what was left of my humanity. I thought that everything would go away, but I was wrong. ” He shook his head softly, then as if to emphasize his last point, he slid back down into the bed, as though his hold on life was gradually weakening. “I see now, why you are like this Cyborg, why you continue to go on. If only I had seen it sooner.”

“But I will still thank you friend, it is as though a burden has been lifted from him.” Fixit said with another smile.

“Don’t be ridiculous fix…” Cyborg insisted to his friend. “I didn’t do anything for you, if it wasn’t for me…If I had just-“

Fixit interrupted Cyborg, lifting his hand up gently, like a teacher giving a student a mild reproof.
“The sunrise, it is a marvelous thing.” Fixit said, as if he were talking to himself. “I once believed that it was only a mere demarcation of time. It was how I used to measure the days, weeks, months, years before I went underground. But now, it seems so revitalizing, as if life is renewing itself all over. Perhaps I understand, at least a small part of it, why humans look forward to the start of the new day.”
He turned to Cyborg. “As I said, it is too late for me friend, but not for you. I can see it now Cyborg, the great difference between us.” Fixit said with a light smile.

“Fix. I’m not different from you. See?” Cyborg pointed to his robotic arm, which to him, was just identical to how Fixit’s was constructed. “No, you’re just like me. I’m here for you, just like my friends are, and we’ll pull through this together and get you better.”

“No. Friend. That is where you are wrong.” Fixit shook his head softly, the smile still on his face. Cyborg was constantly puzzled by his friend. Why is he smiling?

“They are helping me because they are the Teen Titans. They are heroes, it is what they do.

Cyborg found himself speechless, but also puzzled. They were heroes, and heroes treat everyone the same. So why is Fixit making such a big deal out of this?

Fixit continued on.

“But when there comes a time when you will require their help, they will come to help you, not because they are the titans, but because they are your friends.”

“That is why we are different.” Fixit said.

“Fix……..” Cyborg himself, could find no words. Indeed, it was as though all that horror, from the very beginning of his accident, to the events of the past few days suddenly swept over his mind like a giant wave.

There was a bright light now, an inviting yet warm aura that seemed to caress him gently.

Fixit looked at all the bright happy faces. Laughing, joking, all smiling around the great camp fire. He thought: I do not belong. I never belonged.

But still, he wanted to join them. Not even to say anything, but to just sit there and listen to the jokes and laughs, to sit inside the warm ring. Because from out there, he never heard what they said, he was out of it. But when he joined, there would be a stiffness, a strange fear that gripped him.

I…do not want to ruin their fun…their time.

And yet terribly, he wanted it again, the way it used to be. The touch of a warm hand by his side, all laughing and singing beautifully into the night, which would be filled by a temporary, yet glittering joy.

He wanted to feel it, the tears of joy and the release of all those years of pain and sorrow. But he couldn’t…t

He couldn’t cry. He was a machine, a robot. Machines don’t cry. They had no feelings didn’t they? No. He knew he couldn’t cry, could never cry, because he was a machine.

He held the pain, just like a dam holding back a flood of water. The pressure would hold, grasping him forever. The pain would stay.

“Why can’t I cry? Why can’t I laugh?”

“Fixit?”

Cyborg took him by the arm, and started pulling him into the circle, and it was genuine. They all stood there to greet him.

Fixit then found that he smiled, sat down and joined the laughter, and Fixit did not think anymore about the pain. For the first time in years, he felt it, the streaming wetness around his eyes, it seemed to represent everything to him; hate, fear, anger, happiness, compassion…love. The joy of having great weight lifting from his soul. The sudden realization as he took his last soft breath.

“I am a human being. Not a machine”

***

It was a quiet burial. A burial that had taken place at the old Jump City Cemetery, just outside the city limits. Unlike the noisy, crowded and dirty streets of downtown, it was a peaceful place, with lush green grass that seemed to ripple in waves with the breeze. It was a cloudy day, though in some places, it was thin enough for rays of sunlight to pierce through.

The five titans stood quietly in front of the tombstone, where moments ago, they had laid their friend to rest.

“I’m sorry for your loss my friend, for your sorrows I shall pay twenty grubfars.” Starfire said in a solemn tone as she stood beside Cyborg.

“Are you sure you’re Ok Cyborg….this kind of thing isn’t easy to get over.” Robin said with a touch of concern.

“It’s ok Guys. Its ok. I’ll be alright.” Cyborg said encouragingly.

“You did all you could Cy” Beast Boy walked right next to Cyborg, consoling his friend.

“I still can’t avoid it B…This was my fault. I let him down. I spent so much time worrying about myself that I never thought about those around me. My friends, and I’ve let down a friend before because of it.” He held up his hands, looking at the mechanical parts once more.

Beast Boy almost gave Cy a look of disbelief, how can he still be saying that stuff now?

But Cyborg raised his head up, his eyes fierce in determination.

“I’m not gonna let it happen again.”

Beast Boy gave a surprised look at first, but slowly, when he saw how much Cyborg had put into that last statement, he only nodded to his friend.

“I just wish…that I had more time. To make Fixit see, that he wasn’t all alone either.”

“I think he knew Cyborg. He knew.” Beast Boy placed his hand on his friend’s shoulder.

The titans turned and left now, and as they did, a circular shadow suddenly obscured Fixit’s grave. And within seconds, the first signs of life came to as little feet perched themselves onto the tombstone. They were birds, hundreds of birds of all colors, an assortment of blue, red and yellow. To a passing observer, it looked as though a raindow had suddenly fallen from the skies, to paint the cemetery in a dazzling display of color. The birds chirped continuously, singing their songs as they stood in tribute to the man who had given them shelter, the master who would never be alone, even in death.

It was a final tribute to Fixit.

Cyborg’s friend.

The end

.
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.
.OR IS IT.
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.
.
.

Epilogue Epilogue

(several days later)

The automatic doors slid open, letting the first rays of light into the dim room of the infirmary. It was here, where all of Jump City’s sick and impaired were cared for. And on that sunny morning, the home would get a new visitor, one that hadn’t been there for some time.

“Ah, Mr…Cyborg?” The receptionist at the desk gave a polite smile as she tried to put a name to the face, but who in Jump City

“Victor will do thanks, I know its been awhile since I’ve been here.” Cyborg looked around the whitewashed halls of the hospital, where a slew of patients, young and old, walked in seemingly every direction down the endless corridors of the hospital.

“I’ve come for a visit.” Cyborg continued.

“Ah yes, right this way. You’ll find that he’s in the same room as before.” The nurse stood up now, and quietly led the robotic titan to a separate wing of the hospital, where there were less crowds, less patients.

It was a solitary room, built for one, and it was empty, save for the one lone occupant who sat in the wheel chair.

Cyborg looked at him, and he could imagine the old man’s eyes still staring at him. The cold hard stare, just like it was so long ago. He normally would have expected a ‘hello’, but age, and a stroke, had robbed him of that ability. Now, it seemed as though the walls around the two were higher. He always felt that immense pressure around him, that expectation. The old man always believed that science was the only way a man could measure himself, could struggle for, could respect, something to carry on with his life. They didn’t argue after that one fight, his father’s disappointment subtle, quiet. But Cyborg knew it was always there.

But around him, he saw it. What the old man was doing. Reading a scrap book, that had a bunch of newspaper clippings on it. Old ones that Cyborg could not help but recognize.

He was just a foot behind his father now, and even the most oblivious person in the world felt the presence of the large android in the room, and so, the old man turned around, and stared into Cyborg’s eyes.

Except, there was none of that old hardness in his eyes, it was something different. Something much softer.

“Hey pop.” Cyborg said calmly, relaxing for the first time in his father’s gaze. He noticed the newspaper clippings now, the articles that highlighted all the Titan’s past adventures, from stopping Slade, to saving the world just a few months ago. He saw it even more now, the writing on one of the clips, which singled him out in the picture.

My son. the hero.

The old man sat quietly in his wheelchair beside Cyborg, and the titan almost felt the man struggling, quietly in his seat. He stared down at the floor, reached out to Cyborg’s arm now, and still did not look at him, but Cyborg felt the firm grip all the same, and he gave it a tight squeeze.

Cyborg, stilling feeling his grasp, smiled, feeling something moving inside of him, knew that it was the first time, as if a huge stone had been lifted off his back. Even if the words were not there, even if the old man didn’t know how to say it, the barriers were gone now, and Cyborg knew that he had finally made his father proud.

END episode 12

STAY TUNED FOR THE SEASON FINALE OF LOST SEASONS!

Episode 13- A Teen Titan, A True Friend (The Tournament of Heroines Epilogue)
What really happened after 'Winner take all'? Beast Boy begins to have doubts about the team making sure that Terra was ever coming back, Raven drops in and comforts him, she tells him a story, filling Beast Boy in on what happened during that time Terra, Starfire and Raven were stranded by the master of games.

Pun-3x

05-10-2007, 02:04 AM

*SNRGHTCHK!* I'm awake! I'm here!

...

Anyway! First, it's been so long I forgot what it was I was going to add about the part before this one. So I'll just go from here:

This ending was perfect. I kinda felt like Fixit was going to die, but it felt more likely to happen during the fight. Still, though, I kinda had it in the back of my mind since he'd ripped out his organics. The way it was all done was great. Even Beast Boy's harshness towards Cyborg's moping was an unexpected treat of sorts. It's fun to play B's serious side that once-in-a-blue-moon moment, as we know it only comes along about that often.

And the final-final touch with Cyborg and his father was just right. There really didn't need to be much else done with it--simple seemed to work best in that case. I knew who it was from the beginning, but I love the casual in-the-middle-of-the-paragraph kind of revelation a lot. It works just as well here.

Well, HOPEFULLY, we'll get to see the season finale soon. We'll just have to see... :)

DeathscytheVII

05-11-2007, 04:06 AM

*SNRGHTCHK!* I'm awake! I'm here!

HAHA yup, my bad for taking 2 months :( but writers block struck again, but for the wait i will apologize once again ;)...

Anyway! First, it's been so long I forgot what it was I was going to add about the part before this one. So I'll just go from here:

This ending was perfect. I kinda felt like Fixit was going to die, but it felt more likely to happen during the fight. Still, though, I kinda had it in the back of my mind since he'd ripped out his organics. The way it was all done was great. Even Beast Boy's harshness towards Cyborg's moping was an unexpected treat of sorts. It's fun to play B's serious side that once-in-a-blue-moon moment, as we know it only comes along about that often.

Thanks! I was pounding my head to get the dialogue for the fixit moments just right, and i'm glad that it worked for you. And yes, it all really stemmed from when fixit removed his organics.

I personally enjoyed writing beast boy's moment too. it was just something i seriously wish the show had him do to cyborg during one of his moping episodes, but alas...it only exists in fanfiction :(

And the final-final touch with Cyborg and his father was just right. There really didn't need to be much else done with it--simple seemed to work best in that case. I knew who it was from the beginning, but I love the casual in-the-middle-of-the-paragraph kind of revelation a lot. It works just as well here.

Thanks again. I really loved writing that part, and it really just popped into my head when i finished writing the epilogue. Although i made cyborg say he changed, i felt it would have more meaning if he actually acted on his words for once.

Well, HOPEFULLY, we'll get to see the season finale soon. We'll just have to see... :)

For that I apologize again haha. I don't know when ill be able to post it, but i'll tell you this for sure. Once i start, it'll continue regularly till the end, no long 2 month hiatus' i promise ;)

paranoidguy103

06-24-2007, 01:20 PM

This is a really great story. Can't wait to see the conclusion:D . Wonder what Raven's going to tell BB:confused: ?
Peace,
Paranoidguy103

Arrakhat

08-28-2007, 09:48 AM

Well... I'm back. Missed this forum for a long time, but it's good to be back after who knows how long. I don't have the time to post a response to the end of this episode that would do it justice, but way to wrap up everything Deathscythe. Makes me wish the show had addressed more than Cyborg's human/machine issue and gone deeper.

DeathscytheVII

09-22-2007, 10:49 PM

This is a really great story. Can't wait to see the conclusion:D . Wonder what Raven's going to tell BB:confused: ?
Peace,
Paranoidguy103

Thanks Paranoid. Sadly, i'm not sure if i have the time atm to finish the final episode, i'm still deciding if I can. I have it all thought out though, just havent committed it to writing.

Well... I'm back. Missed this forum for a long time, but it's good to be back after who knows how long. I don't have the time to post a response to the end of this episode that would do it justice, but way to wrap up everything Deathscythe. Makes me wish the show had addressed more than Cyborg's human/machine issue and gone deeper.

Welcome back arrakhat, sadly none of the old writers seem to visit this board anymore, im just checking back haha. But thanks for the comments and sticking with this all the way through!

DeathscytheVII

03-21-2010, 08:12 PM

WOW, it's been so long since i've written anything. I do believe I stopped writing fanfiction completely for the past two years since i stopped this fic. But Death has inspired me to at least finish this one ;) I don't think i'll ever write TT again, since most of it is fuzzy to me now, but i gotta at least finish this.

Please excuse the horribleness if the characters and action sequences are a bit stuffed up, i'm out of practice ;) and words don't come to me as easily as they used to lol.

And now, the finale.

Episode 13: A Teen Titan, A true Friend.

There was no sign of life in the cavern, save for the screeches of several dozen bats that had taken residence within the moist and slippery rocks. The cavern itself was not natural, having been formed barely a year ago. It resembled a giant pit, with a spiral tower of rock forming from the center. Cooled obsidian gleamed on the cavern walls, evidence of the roaring lava that once flowed thorugh these chambers. Now, the only sounds were the small plinks of falling water drops from the cavern roof.

On top of the rocky spire, was a flatter platform, barely enough to hold a group of people. And on it, was a statue of a young girl, still petrified in the same pose that she was when she used the last of her powers to save the city and her friends.

Below was a plaque, commemorating this person.

TERRA
A TEEN TITAN
A TRUE FRIEND

Flowers were left on the plaque, a memento by Starfire, but they had already wilted in the darkness of the caves.

Beast Boy smiled gently as he dusted off the plaque, replacing it with a fresh bouquet he had brought with him.

"Hi Terra, it's me, Beast Boy. Sorry it took so long for me to visit, must get kinda lonely down here huh?" The changeling set the flowers down on the altar, then sat next to the statue of his friend.

"A lot of stuff has happened over the summer since I last came down here. Man, you wouldn't believe it, first it was Mumbo on a crazy cruise ship, then Cy getting us a brand spanking new Computer system. Only to have it go crazy on us." Beast boy laughed, casually picking up a pebble and flicking it into the distance, like they used to do by the waters of Jump city.

"I tried getting us a TV show, and of course, a moped for yoouurs truly. We even fought a dragon in Raven's mind. How cool is that?"

There was no reply from Terra, as Beast Boy had come to expect from her by now.

"And then there was that time i schooled Control Freak in a video game, haha!" Beast boy slapped his knee in exclamation. "Boy did I have a field day with that one."

Beast boy softened his expression as he kept talking, whether it was to Terra or just to himself in the darkness, he didn't know. This place was always kind of a sanctuary for him, a place to speak his mind and unload all his doubts. He never realized it until now, but Beast Boy had a newfound appreciation for all the meditation Raven did in her spare time, what was it for again? to cleanse her mind.

"We also....had some rough times. I don't think you met him, but Cy...we lost a friend of ours, Fixit."

Beast boy took another pebble, tossing it into the pit.

"It was a hard fight, and we almost lost, but Cyborg and Fixit came through for us....Just watching that happen to a friend....it just really makes me think you know? " Beast Boy closed his eyes and sighed, and looked at Terra, motionless and seemingly lifeless.

"I know some of us have given up, even if they don't say it straight to my face, but i know you're in there somewhere Terra. Maybe you're just resting? I won't give up on you, I know you wouldn't give up on me. You'll come back some day. And i'll be here waiting." He smiled lightly, holding her petrified hand.

Suddenly, Beast Boy heard the rustle of footsteps in the cavern, followed by the light pitter patter of rocks as a few pebbles fell into the cavern. Someone else was there...with them.

"Whose there?!" Beast Boy shouted into the darkness, assuming a defensive posture. He didn't know anyone else on his team that visited down here, so that left either Slade or some other enemy. Either way, they were not getting to Terra.

"Beast Boy, it's me."

The changeling's posture relaxed as he saw the new entrant into the cavern, sporting her purple robe like always.

"Raven?" Beast boy said in surprise. "What are you doing down here?"

"Probably for the same reason as you I guess." The sorceress replied calmly, usually she would be sarcastic or stern towards Beast Boy, but she knew this would be the last place and time to do so.

"I just noticed it has been a while since any of us visited here, well except you of course."

"No offense Rae, but...I'm a bit surprised. You and Terra didn't exactly get along very well."

"No, but it still doesn't change what she did for us, or the city." Raven replied. "Besides, I owe her one."

Beast Boy was genuinely surprised at that last remark. His ears piqued with interest.

"For what?"

"It's a long story." Raven said stoically, giving the impression that it was too long to explain.

"I've got time." Beast Boy replied. "I'd like to know what this is all about Rae."

Raven hesitated for a moment, but seeing that Beast boy was so eager to hear more about their times with Terra, she relented.

"I guess i'll start from the beginning, you remember that time that you guys went missing during that Tournament of heroes....well, I think you remember what happened to us right after you guys came back..."

***

The white flash had vanished as quickly as it appeared, leaving only a trail of smoke as evidence of its wake. They were all inside a domed structure, filled with Balconies and endless mazes of hallways,

Starfire, Terra and Raven groaned as their eyes adjusted to this new environment. The smoke was still thick, obscuring their vision, but they knew they weren't the only ones on the scene, around them were at least a dozen female silouettes. Some of them very familiar.

"Welcome, Champions all! I am the Master of Games!"

All eyes turned to a towering platform that hovered above the crowd, and the source of the booming voice that just addressed them.

There, stood a powerfullly built figure, wearing gold bands on his biceps, wrists and shinns, as well as a loincloth, he resembled one of the gladiators from Roman times. Except that this figure was almost ape like, his arms and body covered in a white fur save for his grey face and chest. Aside from his bracelets, he also sported a golden belt of a champion and a large necklace encrusted with a large red jewel.

The master of games smiled.

"You are hereby invited to compete...in the Tournament of Heroines!"

Starfire's gaze never left the mysterious figure, despite his seemingly friendly invitation, something didn't feel right.

"Raven?"

The sorceress, eyeing the new figure suspiciously, nodded towards her teammate. "Yeah?"

"I have a bad feeling about this."

(Fade to song)
***

When there's trouble you know who to call
Teen Titans!
From their tower, they can see it all
Teen Titans!

When there's evil on the attack
You can rest knowing they got your back
'Cuz when the world needs heroes on patrol
Teen Titans GO!

With their superpowers they unite
Teen Titans!
Never met a villain that they liked
Teen Titans!

They've got the bad guys on the run
They never stop ‘till the job gets done
'Cuz when the world is losin' all control
Teen Titans GO!

1.. 2.. 3.. 4.. Go!
Teen Titans!

Death58

03-23-2010, 01:34 AM

JAG

03-23-2010, 10:52 PM

Well, this is a surprise! I was starting to give up hope of seeing The Lost Season finished. Good to see you've changed your mind.

I agree with Death58 that this is definitely high-quality so far. Can't wait for more!

DeathscytheVII

03-27-2010, 12:04 PM

ACT 1 (part 1)

The smoke cleared moments later, revealing to all the heroines the occupants of the room. Starfire and Raven opened their eyes in surprise as they saw some of the people standing next to them.

"Soo....." Terra eyed the room curiously, not recognizing a single one of the heroines considering she was just starting her time as a titan. "I guess you know these guys?"

"Some of them." Raven said sternly, with an edge in her voice.

A smooth and cocky laugh erupted from the shadows, Terra couldn't make out the figure in front of Star and Raven, save for the smooth and cocky voice of a young girl. "Is that any way to greet an old friend?"

Before Terra, Raven or Starfire could say anything, the master of games wasted no time, before anyone in the room could even get their bearings or react, he had already began announcing the guest list.

"Welcome again ladies, to the tournament of Heroines! A friendly competition between the world's greatest young champions!"

The enchanted jewel on the Master of Game's began glowing now, projecting intense images into the minds of the contestants.

First came a shot of space, showcasing starfire in her old Taramanian outfit, fitted with armored undergarments and metallic accents. The image showed her pummeling a ship into nothing, before firing a burst of green starbolts.

"First, we have Starfire, the alien powerhouse with starbolt fury to match!"

The image shifted to a dark world with burning red skies and floating mounds of jagged rock. Within seconds, the rocks were ripped to pieces with a black magic that shrouded them, revealing Raven.

"Raven, the mysterious and stoic sorceress"

Next, was the desert landscape of Jump City, jutted with Canyons that suddenly imploded a vast earthquake, leaving behind a cloud of dust as a very familiar figure emerged from the rubble. Floating on a levitated rock.

"Terra, the Earth-Shaking Rock and Roller!"

The next image showcased a girl floating in mid air, her skin was paler than Raven's, her hair short and unkempt with bangs died red. The figure sported a black dress and red skirt with black knee high stockings and matching gloves. Red energy emanated from her hands.

"Argent, master creator and wielder of deadly plasma energy!

The scenery cut to an underground complex with yellow metallic walls, and an army of robots. Standing in the middle of it all was a slim girl sporting a black dress trimmed in blue, and lavender colored hair with black and blue stockings. She gave a mischievous grin as she did a 360-degree twirl, throwing a wave of purple plasma energy that caused the walls around her to collapse into pieces..

"Jinx, the H.I.V.E operative who spells bad luck for her enemies!"

The image flashed to a dark outline of jump city on a stormy night, a flash of lightning quickly illuminated the rooftops of one of them, revealing a dark figure hiding in the shadows, with metallic claws, a green kimono and a grinning mask that covered all of her face.

"Chesire, the skilled and deadly assassin, but even deadlier opponent."

Next, there was a shot of an army of robots, being led by an older, slender woman with short black hair and a red and black uniform. Her arms twisted and contorted into the air, stretching to several times the normal length of a normal person's.

"Madame Rouge, mistress of evil whose reach knows no bounds."

A young teen sporting the black and yellow costume of the H.I.V.E academy came on, and within seconds she was shrinking down to the size of a insect, firing stinger blasts at the practice droids, tearing them to shreds. A final punch

"Bumblebee, the agile fighter with size changing abilities and a lightning sting to boot!"

The last scene shifted to a throne room. This girl looked similar to the titans, but her clothing, armor and hair were all black. In addition to her uniform, she wore armored wrist guards and a metallic neckpiece. Her eyes glowing a menacing red.

"And last but not least Blackfire, with unstoppable strength to match her formiddable cunning."

His speech finished, the Master of Games addressed the crowd of heroines once more, raising his arms in the air for dramatic effect.

"Nine Brave and worthy champions, but only one shall win. Only one shall be left standing at the end."

***

"Blackfire." Starfire said tersely as the black armored Tamaranian stepped out of the shadows.

"Now is that anyway to address your dear sister?" Blackfire said nonchalantly, as if completely oblivious to the unusually hostile front Starfire was putting up.

"No, but sisters do not frame one another for crimes they did not commit!" Starfire remarked with a great emphasis on the ending, pointing an accusing finger at her sibling.

"Shouldn't you be in a Centauri prison right now?" Raven stepped in, next to Starfire.

The cocky Tamaranian shrugged. "I was teleported here just like all of you remember? Besides, if it means my freedom, I'll gladly compete in this so called 'tournament'. What better chance will I have for a rematch with my helpless little sister."

Starfire's eyes gave a quick flash of fury, but before she could do anything, Terra jumped in.

"Just hold on girls," Terra said nervously just because it seemed like to her that the three were about to start fighting. "Let's focus on where we are right now, we have a tournament right? I'm guessing there will be prizes at the end of this?" The titan said cordially, as if trying to defuse the sudden tension in the room.

The Master of Games beamed at this remark.

"Correct young Titan, there will be a vast prize at the end of this tournament, and the winner will prove themselves to be the greatest young heroine on Earth."

"And what exactly are we fighting for?" Jinx, standing next to her H.I.V.E academy schoolmate, Bumblebee, asked curiously.

"Yeah," Bumblebee, not fully convinced, crossed her arms and stared up at the mysterious host. "How do we know this isn't all just an act?"

"It shall be revealed when the tournament concludes." The master said calmly, "But know this, many a young hero has fought valiantly for it and failed, it is a prize desired by all, and has yet to be won." The Master of games replied, drawing the girls in with his promises of this vast 'prize'.

"Very interesting......" Madame Rouge said slyly in her heavyset french accent. The villain was intrigued, a prize beyond all imagination? Surely it would be a great asset for the Brotherhood.

"I don't know...." Argent stepped forward, "I'd very much like to know what we're fighting for before I enter any tournament."

The master of games expected this, and already had an answer prepared.

"Do not fear young heroines, if you do not feel comfortable or who do not wish to compete. You need only say the word and I shall return you home and at once safe and sound. Of course, the chance at the prize will then be reserved for those who compete." It was a generous promise, but from his experience, it was this single sentence that baited every hero or heroine in..hook, line and sinker. The Master gave a small grin as he bowed politely towards the crowd of young heroines.

As expected, there was a quick hush over the crowd as none of the heroines spoke up about being sent home.

"Looks like we're all game." Terra palmed her fist in anticipation. "The trophy's going home to Titans tower."

"Speak for yourself, the H.I.V.E going to wipe the floor with you titans." Jinx smirked, Bumblebee followed, stepping up behind her classmate.

"Bah. It will be child's play to defeat all you pathetic amateurs." Madame Rouge brushed them all off arrogantly.

The master of games nodded eagerly, raising his arms in a symbolic gesture as he gave his announcement.

"Then the challenge has been accepted. The Tournament of Heroines begins. Prepare for competition!" The jewel on the Master's necklace began glowing, and before anyone could say or do anything else, he vanished in another flash of smoke.

Raven was the only one who didn't seem to join in the mood.

"Something's wrong with this picture. Half the people here aren't even heroes, they're villains."

"You don't need to be a hero to be a champion." Blackfire remarked slyly, flicking her hair casually as she turned her back to the titans, walking away to the group of villains.

"See ya in the arena."

***

"Ready to watch me walk off with all the prizes?" Terra said smugly, tightening the straps of her goggles as she readied herself for the match to come.

"I'd like to see you try and beat me. I don't meditate all day for nothing you know." Raven gave a rare smirk, which unsettled Terra a bit, who know Raven even had a competitive side to her?

"Do not worry friends," Starfire, once again resuming her cheery disposition with Blackfire gone. "I am sure we will all prevail over our opponents."

"And what if we happen to be fighting each other Star?" Terra smirked as she gave the Tamaranian a friendly nudge.

Chesire did not say a word as she listened to the titans talk, she just leaned casually next to a pillar, sharpening the claws and katanas she brought with her, each stroke sending sparks flying off her weapons as she fine tuned them to a deadly edge.

"You must be the Titans I hear so much about." Bumblebee said smugly as she walked up to the trio of girls.

"And who might you be?" Raven asked.

"Bumblebee, top H.I.V.E academy graduate. and I'm going to show you guys just what we are made of." She gave Terra a curiously glance.

"You, I don't remember hearing about. What was that again? Rock head?"

Terra jerked her head towards Bumblebee. "Sounds like you want to go now." She said very confrontationally. "How about I squash you against the wall like a little bug?"

"Calm down, there's plenty of chances in this tournament." Raven waved the two heroines apart. Just what was the master of games thinking bringing these groups together for a 'friendly' tournament?

Meanwhile, on the other side of the crowd, Argent sighed at the spectacle of the rivalry between the HIVE and Titan members.

"Friendly sort of crowd eh?" She said in her usual British accent, nodding towards Chesire, who, like her, did not seem to congregate into any of the groups.

Chesire didn't say a word or respond, she just continued sharpening her metallic claws.

Argent sighed, "How positively delightful........."

Suddenly, the Master of Games reappeared on the podium, and began his announcements.

"Champions! It is time to begin round one. Face your opponents!"

***

"With Nine champions, the first round will be a three-person fight to the finish!"

All nine heroines were suddenly vanished in a cloud of smoke.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/TreizeV/Round1.jpg

"Starfire, Argent and Blackfire in a three person free for all!"

Three pillars of lightning slammed onto the surface as the three heroines suddenly found themselves zapped into their arena, a desolate moonscape filled with craters and rock formations.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/TreizeV/Round2.jpg

"Terra Versus Chesire!"

Both heroines were soon teleported to their own Arena, an omninous cavern filled with rock and concrete formations, lit up only by the torches on the walls.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/TreizeV/Round3.jpg

"Raven Versus Jinx!"

Raven soon found herself facing her Hive opponent. The room was filled with dozens of floating circular platforms, each one seemingly suspended by an invisible force.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/TreizeV/Round4.jpg

"Bumblebee Versus Madame Rouge!"

The two combatants quickly teleported to their room, which resembled the inside of a metallic pipeline with the walls and ceiling all curving inwards.

"LET THE TOURNAMENT BEGIN!"

(stay tuned for the conclusion of act 1 :D)

(note: yes I know the tournament format is 8 people, but I wanted to get Chesire in since she is badass. I tried to put Kole into this but.....the show really gave her the short end in terms of fighting ability. Pantha was a close second but I didn't really know her character)

DeathscytheVII

03-27-2010, 12:36 PM

I just gotta say, you still have a spot on knack for character Deathscythe. As I read the first few moments of this prologue, I really envisioned the old show. It was especially nice to see Beast Boy remaining ever positive that he would see Terra again. It made the scene that much more tragic because of his sense of hope in a purely hopeless situation. After all, there's a chance Terra may never "awaken". Then you topped off his attempts at talking to Terra with a slight holding of her hand, which really made me sad! I remember in some of the previous episodes how you handled BB, and it seems like you haven't lost your stride at all, which is really important for me because he's my favorite Teen Titan.

HAHA thanks Death! You are too kind :) to be honest I've always hoped the show would cover this mystery in the sixth season, but we never got it :( I'm very glad the characters are still somewhat IC for you :) i do my best.

Yes, BB rocks!

The relationship between Raven and Beast Boy is spot on as well. Ever keeping BB at a distance, yet still showing some empathy toward him by at least allowing him to have this one story about Terra that he never got to know...at least until now. I really have to say, the subtlety of your characters is really awesome!http://www.toonzone.net/forums/images/smilies/anime.gif

Plus, starting where the "Tournament of Heroes" episode(I forgot the actual episode's name)ended off drove me right into that place, and I'm really excited to see what happened to Raven, Starfire, and Terra! I often wondered what that would have been like, mostly because of Terra being there.

Thanks Death, wow Subtlety after all these years! I'd never thought it. I've been rewatching some old TT eps just to get me back into the feel of the show and I must say it feels VERY different i must say watching it again after all these years. Glad you like it! :D

Your descriptions across the board are spot on, and you seemed to have gotten right back into writing this fic perfectly. It's sad to think that this is then end of your fan fiction writing days, but I definitely understand(especially the words not coming as easily as they used to, but apparently it hasn't affected you much http://www.toonzone.net/forums/images/smilies/wink.gif). The Teen Titans are starting to become fuzzy in my memory as well.http://www.toonzone.net/forums/images/smilies/disappointed.gif However, I'm glad you were inspired to finish this up.

I'm eager to see what's next!http://www.toonzone.net/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif If this beginning is any indication, this is going to be an amazing finale.

Thanks Death, and yes it saddens me too, but just thinking of how to put the scenes into words took so long for me :( not as easy as it used to as you said haha. But at least i'll end off with a bang, full circle :)

Well, this is a surprise! I was starting to give up hope of seeing The Lost Season finished. Good to see you've changed your mind.

I agree with Death58 that this is definitely high-quality so far. Can't wait for more!

Crap JAG?! It's like a freaking revival/reunion here ;) could it be? Thanks for reading even after all these years! I hope you enjoy :D

DeathscytheVII

04-11-2010, 01:37 AM

Act 1 part 2

Blackfire smirked menacingly as her eyes blazed red with energy. Argent and Starfire followed suit, both combatants charging their palms with their respective green and red projectiles.

The Master of games appeared as a hologram momentarily over the battlefield.

"As we have an odd number of champions, your round is a preliminary elimination. The first one out shall be sent home while the remaining two advance."

"Fine by me." Blackfire charged her hands with the menacing red starbolt.

"Then let the challenge begin!" The Master of Games vanished.

"Let's get things started shall we?" Blackfire instantly threw two red starblasts at her opponents, flying straight between them.

Starfire and Argent instinctively ducked out of the way. Starfire taking to the skies while Argent performed an aerial back flip to land feet away from the resulting explosions. Each blast rocked the moonscape arena, sending tremors through the air and ground.

"Wait....your starbolts sister...they are different." Starfire noted as she hovered above her sister.

"My little secret." Blackfire smirked, then rushed straight at starfire. Starfire let loose a rapid fire barrage of starbolts at her opponent, but on top of Blackfire's strength, her speed had increaesd as well, so much so that she was able to avoid all of them without even getting singed. Dozens of green explosions littered the landscape, resulting in more craters.

Starfire crossed her arms in defense as Blackfire rushed infor the crushing strike, but before that happened, two giant palms of red energy slammed into the two girls, pushing them through the air before pinning them down onto the ground.

"Hello...I'm still here you know." Argent, floating above the two sisters, had both her hands charged with plasma energy, each one shapped into a giant palm that pressed the Tamaranians down.

Both Tamaranians turned towards Argent and the gothic heroine noticed that both their eyes were glowing.

"Oh bugger m-"

Within an instant, two streams of lasers went straight for Argent, and the resulting flash and explosion temporarily blinded the field.

***

Terra ran for her life as a storm of ninja stars and kunai flew straight at her, digging into the stone walls with a sickening slice as well as knocking several torches onto the ground. Chesire wasted no time, jumping from rock formation to rock formation, she kept up the steady barrage.

Before the villainess could throw her next barrage however, the earth beneath her feet began shaking. She instinctively back flipped away to avoid the large boulder which ripped out of the ground slamming into the ceiling into a great explosion of dust and rubble.

Chesire was unphazed by this, and simple pulled out her metallic claws and charged head on into Terra.

Big mistake. Terra thought as she clenched her fists, focusing her powers on the ground below.

As if on cue, huge stone slabs began erupting in front of Chesire's path, blocking her path towards Terra while at the same time, aiming to box her in.

A sudden flash and a glint of steel filled the cavern, and within moments, all the rock pillars and slabs that Terra summoned became sliced into several neat pizza shaped pieces.

"You've gotta be kidding me." Terra pushed her arms out straight at Chesire, and the pieces of stone quickly spun towards Chesire like ninja stars. The assassin ran towards the projectiles, doing a quick forward flip before landing right behind Terra.

"No wa-" Before Terra could say anything, Chesire did a low sweeping kick at Terra, knocking her backwards and falling straight into the blades of the Villain.

As Terra landed however, she raised her arms up, and on cue, two fragments of rock flew straight at her hands, giving her the force needed to pull her up into the air and out of the danger of Chesire's blades.

"You're gonna have to do better than that if you want to beat me." Terra was breathing heavily, not used to exerting so much power within such a short span of time. Tough, fast yes. But she was not unbeatable, the fact that this entire arena was made of stone was to her advantage, Terra thought. Chesire was following good tactics, 'keep close to me because I'm a projectile user'.

Terra smirked, crouching down and planting both palms into the earth, the ground shaking as yellow aura surrounded the Titan. Within seconds they were glowing and she slowly stood back up, each palm pulling up a slender pole of stone up with her so that by the time she fully stood up, Terra had two bo staffs completely made of Stone.

To Chesire's suprise, Terra began twirling the two bo staffs with somewhat competent skill, displaying a very Robin like defensive pose.

Then, to Terra's surprise. Chesire gave a sinister laugh, perhaps the only thing she's heard out of the villain.

Chesire advanced without saying another word, pulling out three kunai from her sleeve while unsheathing a long katana, previously concealed within her robe. Looks like she was getting serious as well.

***

"Azarath Metrion Zinthos!" Raven gestured her black chakra infused palm towards Jinx, sending several of the circular platforms flying straight at her.

Jinx elegantly back flipped off the platform, landing on another below just as the three platforms Raven threw at her exploded into a cloud of debris above. As she landed, the villain twirled both her hands, producing two pink shockwaves that sliced through the air straight at Raven.

Raven quickly threw up a barrier, blocking the attack towards her even as Jinx's magic waves sliced through everything else around her.

"You know, I've always test out which one of us was the better fighter outside our teams. I'd say this is as good as it'll get." Jinx remarked as her eyes flared with power, sending shockwaves through the air and desintegrating the circular platform Raven was standing on.

"Of course, I think we all know the outcome." Jinx taunted.

Before the ground around her collapsed, Raven took to the skys, black chakras already coarsing through her arms.

"I wouldn't be too sure of that. Azarath Metrion Zinthos!" Raven chanted, guiding two more stone platforms at Jinx.

The villainess focused on the projectiles, and in a move that surprised Raven, ran towards the attack. Focusing all her power at her feet, Jinx jumped over the first circular platform, stepping onto it for a brief second before leaping straight at Raven.

"My attacks aren't just magic you know." Jinx said as she flew straight at the titan.

"Azarath Metrio-" Raven grunted, her spell interrupted as Jinx kicked her in the arm, dispelling the magic that was charged up previously.

Raven instinctively threw up her other arm and blasted at the villain, but Jinx canceled that out with her own magically charged hand, gripping Raven's wrist and throwing her straight down onto the ground.

Raven grunted in pain as she landed on impact, and as she looked up she saw Jinx charging another hex spell with both her hands.

"Your luck's just run out." Jinx mocked her opponent triumphantly, then let loose her attack on Raven.

The Titan quickly changed into her soul bird form, flying through several more platforms as multiple explosions filled the air, obscuring the arena.

***

The pipeline shook violently as dozens of miniature explosions racked the structure, causing debris and dust to fall all over the arena. Through the structure, a slithering form swerved left and right, resembling a fast moving anaconda.

Bumblebee focused her sights on the elusive Madame rouge, but all her stinger blasts were missing the villain as she used to elastic powers to her advantage, morphing into some sort of shapeless mass and squeezing her way between the blasts.

Rouge laughed as she effortlessly dodged all the blasts, reforming into her human form just metres in front of Bumblebee.

"Give it up child." Rouge spoke in her heavy-set accent. "You don't have what it takes to defeat me."

Bumblebee smirked at the remark, wiping a quick drop of sweat from her forehead. "Madame Rouge isn't it? They talked about you at the H.I.V.E academy, you may have been top dog in the past, but this is our time now."

"Oh?" Rouge replied nonchalantly as she extended her fingers to resemble menacingly sharp swords. "Is that how one talks with their betters these days?"

"I'll show you just how much times have changed." Bee charged up her stingers even more, so much so that they cackled with at least twice as much electricity as her previous attempt.

"Well then child, I guess I shall have to teach you how to treat your betters." Rouge charged straight at Bumblebee, intending to cut her to shreds with her extended blades.

"Ain't necessary." Bumblebee fired two huge blasts at Rouge, then shrunk down to the size of a bug.

Rouge quickly morphed her hands into a shield, taking brunt of the huge blast as it pushed the villain back several feet.

"What? Her previous blasts were not this powerful, how did she-" Rouge then felt a brush of air fly past her head, and she turned around just int ime to see Bumblbee's foot make contact with her face, denting her cheekbones as the force of the impact knocked her several feet away.

Rouge dug her claws into the ground, just in time to catch Bumblebee's charged shot flying straight at her. In response, Rouge flattened her whole body onto the ground, making it look like she got squashed by a giant rock. This however, enabled her to avoid the blast, which blew a neat hole into the walls behind her.

"Interesting...it seems even your strength remains in that size." Rouge pointed out.

"You ain't seen nothing yet." Bumblebee charged her stingers, shrinking down to the size of a bug again before flying straight at her target.

"I have seen enough!" Rouge grimaced, digging her fingers into the ground.

Bumblebee checked her charge as she wondered what the villainess was doing. A sudden rumble resounded through the arena as Rouge suddenly grinned.

"It does not matter how small you shrink, I will still catch you!"

Within seconds it became clear to her as thin spikes suddenly started shooting from the walls, ceiling and floor of the pipe, turning the entire section bumblebee was in into some kind of spike pit. Bee swerved left and right to avoid the spikes, which were madame rouge's fingers as they stabbed in the air around her.

Bee grunted as a spike nearly sliced through her arm, she quickly charged up her stingers and fired at every 'spike' around her, more explosions and slices echoing throughout the arena.

***

Argent grunted as she was thrown into a rock formation, carving a neat little trench in the ground as before she came to a quiet stop just inside a crater. Meanwhile, above her, Starfire and Blackfire grappled with each other in a contest of strength, each combatant trying to push her opponent back.

"You. Will. Not win!" Starfire grunted with strain as she sought to check her opponent, for some reason, Blackfire was effortlessly overpowering her. Something was different this time, normally their strengths should have been nearly equal.

"Keep struggling my dear little sister." Blackfire laughed, her eyes glaring a menacing red. "It makes it that much more fun!" At that moment, she instantly let go of starfire's hands, flying upwards. Starfire, surprised by this manuver, found herself flying forward from her momentum, but she was quickly stopped as Blackfire grabbed a hold of her shoulds and did an aerial flip, taking Starfire along for the ride and throwing her down onto the ground.

Starfire's impact shook the entire moonscape, throwing up a dustball that obscured almost the entire field.

Before blackfire could even gloat however, Starfire shot straight out of the smoke, ramming straight into her sister with an explosive force that sent shockwaves through the air.

Blackfire grunted in anger as she caught the force of her sister's punch on her face, leaving her cheek slightly bruised.

"You'll pay for that one!" She charged forward, grabbing Starfire's arm and proceeded to pummel her into a Rock formation, throwing even more rubble into the air.

Starfire winced as she flailed in the air, trying to free herself from her sister's iron tight grip. She coughed and opened her eyes as the smoke cleared, letting loose a concentrated eye blast straight at her opponent, which sent Blackfire flying straight into the wall of a canyon.

Before Blackfire could even recover, Starfire was already in front of her, throwing an overhand punch that sent her crashing through the ground.

Starfire wanted to continue fighting but a series of red plasma blasts caught her off guard, forcing her to shield her face with her arms as red energy blasts exploded around her.

"Don't underestimate me! I'm in this too you know." Argent flew straight at Starfire, forming her plasma energy into a giant red fist that knocked Starfire back several dozen feet.

"I do not wish to hurt you." Starfire grimaced from the impact, throwing firing charged up starbolts at her new opponent, but Argent was swiftly dodging each blast, closing the distance.

The Titan formed another starbolt, this one equalling the size of the red plasma fist, and sent it blazing at her opponent. The two projectiles met in midair, cancelling each other out. Before the two combatants could move, a red starbolt that hit Starfire from behind, exploding in a scarlet red flash that blinded the arena and sending the Titan tumbling down onto the ground.

"That was too easy." Blackfire smirked as she charged both her hands to form a large red energy ball, this one the size of a mini-van.

"Tah Tah sister!" The villainess was poised to throw but before she could, she found her wrists were shackled by red Plasma energy.

"Did you forget about me?"

Blackfire turned to see the cocky smirk on Argent's face, literally a foot away from her.

"Why you little-"

Before Blackfire could even finish the sentence, a giant slab of Plasma energy knocked her out of the skies, sending her flying into a crater on the ground. Blackfire's massive starbolt, still charged, was now clamped and held by Argent's plasma energy.

"Here, let me return this to you." Argent manipulated her plasma energy into the form of a whip, and like a sling shot, stretched it out and threw the giant starbolt back at Blackfire who was falling toward the crater just above her sister.

"Looks like I win this round." Argent said wryly.

"Think again." Blackfire suddenly had a dark grin on her face, she grabbed Starfire, who was falling just feet beneath her, and flipped herself so that the two Taramanians reversed positions, Starfire on top while Blackfire was below her, shielded from the impending blast.

Starfire screamed in pain as the red blast engulfed her, throwing both her and her sister onto the ground with a massive explosive impact, but with Starfire evidently taking the brunt of the damage. The Titan groaned weakly as she lay beneath a pile of rocks in the centre of the crater.

Blackfire nonchalantly emerged from the rubble, brushing the dust off her armor while Argent lowered herself to ground level, intending to finish the fight.

Before they could continue however, a flash of lightning engulfed the arena, and Starfire vanished in a puff of smoke.

"Starfire has been eliminated!" The Master of Game's voice erupted through the arena. "Winners Blackfire and Argent shall advance to the next round!"

***

The ground exploded violently as several rock spikes emerged like a menacing wave, creating a swath of destruction as it flew towards Chesire. The Assassin however, was quicker, throwing her Kunai at Terra before disappearing into the shadows. Chesire was keeping to the walls, sticking to them for an instant and throwing her ninja stars at the Titan, like a game of cat and mouse. But her aim was very accurate, knocking out of the bo staffs from Terra's hand while the others were deflected, taking down several torches in the cavern.

Terra grunted as she threw up a rock barrier, blocking the projectiles that were thrown at her, but the lapse in concentration had allowed her opponent to close the distance, swiping at the Titan with her Katanas. The Titan barely had time to parry with her stone bo staff, the blade stopping just inches from her fact.

Another wave of her fist sent the rock barrier flying straight at Chesire, but the villainess was already on the prowl, throwing more ninja stars at Terra from the shadows at the edge of the arena.

This time Terra ducked, letting the projectiles pass above her harmlessly and knocking several of the torches around the arena down.

Sensing an opening in the attacks, Chesire attacked straight at Terra.

Terra however, had quite enough of these sneak attacks, Bo staff in one hand, the Titan summoned a boulder beneath her and used the foward momentum to perform a high speed flying kick that sent Chesire flying back.

Caught by surprise, the villainess landed with a quick thud against the torchlit cavern wall. In front of her Terra was poised to finish this, a cocky smirk already on the titan's face.

However, for some reason, Chesire just laughed, almost hysterically.

"What's wrong? Given up already?" Terra shouted out, but felt somewhat uneasy, why was she laughing?!"

Before Terra could say anything else, Chesire took the three ninja stars in her hand, and threw them behind her, obliterating the last three torches that lit up the cavern. The embers sputtered out as the torches hit the ground, giving dying glow before the entire cavern descended into an empty blackness.

To Terra's horror, she couldn't see anything, and her opponent vanished before her eyes. She heard a footstep behind her and threw up a blind rock barrier to protect against the attack, but she was quickly thrown backwards by a sword slice in the darkness. Terra grunted in pain as she felt the force of the impact cut her bo staff in two, throwing her onto the ground as she stumbled blindly for the wall, and some point of leverage to anchor herself on.

The Titan gasped in panic, as attacks came from all around her, but she found herself blind as a bat, unable to attack and barely able to defend herself.

Meanwhile, In the pitch black darkness , Chesire cackled evily, her voice echoing throughout the cavern. The villainess slowly snuck towards Terra, poised for her next strike.

***

JAG

04-12-2010, 02:10 PM

Suspense! Gotta love evil cliffhangers...

Definitely another good update. Very well-written fight scenes all around. I particularly liked the three-way fight. Argent's complaints about being ignored the whole fight were a nice touch, and I didn't expect Starfire to be eliminated so quickly.

I'll definitely be interested to see who else moves on. Keep up the good work!

Death58

04-19-2010, 12:09 AM

Sorry it's taken me so long to reply. Talk about a cliffhanger. You've always been brilliant at those.:D

Since I missed the past two updates(all of ACT I), these comments pertain to both parts. First of all, I gotta say that the set up for the fights was absolutely amazing. Adding the pictures with gave the fic a nice visceral touch, not to mention a nice reminder of exactly what characters you were talking about. The interactions between the characters in the first part were fun. Especially the rivalry between Starfire and Blackfire. I love that it's essentially the only time that Star gets incredibly mean. Also, it was fun seeing Raven get in on the competitive action. She gave a valiant effort at trying to remain neutral. Alas, the heat between her and Jinx showed a very different side to Raven.:evil: I loved it.

The fighting in general was really cool to read. Your descriptions seem to flow out with ease. One component you've always had in your back pocket when it comes to fights is tension. An example of this is Starfire's very brutal defeat. I was sorry for her, but a part of me being the way I am, I'm waiting to see just how badly damaged she really is.:evil: What makes this defeat so very unnerving, much to your credit, is that you've laid out your cards for us. You've created a danger to each of these matches because we don't truly know who is going to win. You know how to raise the stakes...

I want to say, though, nice job with Argent. She was a character that literally had(maybe?)two lines in the show, and here it actually seems like she's more than just a pretty face with an accent. Chesire, for a character that doesn't say anything, is really well done as well. She's evil, but she has got some style. This brings me back to my original point, which is, that cliffhanger. Terra has a chance of getting really, really messed up, to put it bluntly...and I eagerly wait to see if that is indeed what happens.

Keep it up, sir! I look forward to more!:anime:

PS: This is my 600th post!

DeathscytheVII

04-23-2010, 11:30 PM

ACT 2, Part 1

Two circular platforms exploded as a soul bird flew through them, littering the arena with a rain of rubble and dust.

"Is that the best you can do." Jinx laughed as she edged towards Raven, both palms charged with hex magic. The Titan transformed out of her soul bird form, meeting Jinx with her very own charged chakras.

"Not even close." Raven's eyes glowed, then in a surprising move, rushed Jinx head on.

The H.I.V.E member gave an amused look at this unorthodox tactic, then met the Titan with her own rush.

"You think you can beat me in close quarters?" Jinx laughed as she charged Raven head on.

"You bet." Raven motioned one of her palms forward, throwing a shock wave at Jinx which sliced through the ground like a hot knife through butter. Jinx skillfully twirled to one side, not losing her forward momentum and threw her own blast at Raven.

The Titan reacted instantly, jumping over the hex and the resulting explosion, throwing herself at the villainess. Both girls struggled briefly as they grappled fists, Raven's chakra blast on her free hand being canceled out as it met Jinx's charged hands. The struggle did not last long as Jinx swiftly dodged one of Raven's swipes, kicking her opponent back a good few yards.

Raven grunted as she impacted the ground, using her arm as leverage she dislodged a slice of the platform and threw it straight at Jinx. Jinx smirked arrogantly as the platform simply dissolved into dust around her, a barrier of hex energy formed around her.

"What's that about beating me in close quarters?" Jinx laughed.

Raven charged her opponent again, raising both her arms outward and levitating two nearby platforms on top of Jinx.

The two stone platforms slammed into the ground around the HIVE member, but like the other projectiles they were sliced into pieces by Jinx's hex energy. Before she could even gloat however, Raven had closed the distance, reappearing behind Jinx in the form of a soul bird and swiping straight at her, knocking Jinx back in a powerful shockwave. The villainess screamed as she landed back in a cloud of dust.

"You were saying?" Raven crossed her arms in a defensive posture, powering both her arms up with a fierce chakra charge.

Jinx coughed as emerged from the smoke, a fierce glare already glowing in her eyes.

A hex energy wave surged towards Raven, disintegrating the platform around it as it sped towards Raven. The Titan found herself falling onto her back but quickly took to the air.

Reaching out around her, three more circular platforms became wrapped in black energy. With a wave of her hand, Raven sent each one flying towards Jinx, but the villainess simply hopped to other platforms, avoiding each of Raven's attacks. A succession of blasts filled the air as black magic blasts mixed in with hex spells.

Raven, having quite enough, pointed both her hands at Jinx and charged up the largest blast yet.

"Azarath Metrion Zinthos!" Raven shouted, sending a surge of black energy straight at her opponent.

"I don't think so." Jinx snapped, meeting Raven's blast with one of her own hexes. The two forces smashed into each other and exploded upon impact, lighting the entire arena in an eerie glow.

***

"UGH" Bumblebee grunted as she hit the ground, narrowly dodging the latest finger-spikes that shot out of the wall.

"You cannot keep this up forever child, why not just surrender and save yourself the pain?" Madame rouge lectured her opponent in her condescending tone as she reformed her arms.

"Not my style." Bumblebee shrunk again, firing more stinger blasts at Rouge, but the Brotherhood member simply brushed them off.

"HA, if this is what the HIVE has to offer, then they are a waste of my time." Rouge outstretched her arm again, shooting it straight at bumblebee. The shrunken heroine quickly darted left and right, away from Rouge but the elastic villain's reach didn't seem to stop, she was tracing her flightpath like a snake slithering towards its prey.

Finally, giving up on the chase, Bee grew herself back to normal size and decided to meet the villainess dead on, blocking the full force of Rouge's punch as it knocked her back a few feet in the air.

"Impressive, but you should pay more attention." Rouge smirked.

"Huh?" Bumblebee suddenly looked down and noticed that Rouge's other arm had just wrapped around her leg.

"Now you are mine." She laughed, then swung her arm straight into the wall, with poor Bumblebee being taken along for the ride. The entire section of the pipeline wall collapse as Rouge threw Bumblebee straight through the concrete slabs, throwing up even more clouds of dust.

Through the dust, two glowing stinger blasts hit Rouge in the face, taking her by surprise as well as deforming her head as she snapped back in surprise.

Retracting her arms, Rouge covered her smoking face as more blasts fired through the smoke, each other hitting the villainess. But having adjusted to blasts, Rouge simply absorbed the hits like a rubber trampoline, with some blasts bouncing off her malleable body.

"What do I have to do to bring down this crazy lady?" Bumblebee grumbled to herself as she hid around a corner, taking this lapse in fighting to catch her breath and plot her next move.

"What was that child?" The wall suddenly came alive and Bumblebee widened her eyes as she realized Rouge had disguised herself alongside the pipeline walls with her shape shifting ability.

"Lady, you're really starting to freak me out." Bumblebee let loose a barrage of stingers against the wall but all missed as Rouge instantly reformed in front of Bee.

Madame Rouge shot out another one of punches, this one extending ten feet ahead towards Bee.
Wasting no time, Bumblebee too to the air, then came down with a diving kick, intending to pin the villain against the wall.

Rouge however, foresaw this manuveur and already grabbed onto Bumblebee's leg before hitting her, her other arm blocked Bumblebee's fist as it stopped just inches from her face.

"Typical amateur."

"You don't know what I'm capable of." Bee smirked as she used her free hand to charge her stinger and dug it straight into Rouge's face.

The villainess screamed as he face began melting from the intense heat of the stinger, so much so that she violently threw bumblebee into the air. The heroine recovered and let loose another barrage of bolts at Rouge.

"Why you little-" Rouge shot out both her arms at her assailant, but they hit nothing as Bumblebee shrunk again, closing the distance and appearing just beneath Rouge's face. Bee instantly reverted to her normal size and landed an uppercut straight into Madame Rouge's chin, knocking it up at least 2 feet into the air.

Rouge however, chuckled evilly. "Big mistake."

"Wha-" Before Bumblebee could even react, Rouge's long arms wrapped around Bumblebee, slithering around her body like snakes constricting it's prey.

Bee grunted, shrinking to her insect size, but Rouge simply morphed her snake-like arms into a sphere, trapping poor Bumblebee inside.

Instantly realizing she was trapped, Bumblebee reverted to her normal size again, but Rouge's spherical prison simply wrapped around Bumblebee like a garbage bag, constricting her movements as well as her breathing. The Heroine charged her stingers again but it was no use, Rouge did not let go.

Struggling as she was wrapped within Rouge's Bubble, Bumblebee soon ran out of air, and after a few more defiant grunts, she lost all her strength.

Rouge smirked, unwrapping Bumblebee from her arms and letting her fall harmless onto the floor. A split second later, a lightning zap teleported Bumblebee away, leaving Rouge standing victorious.

"Bumblebee has been eliminated. The winner is! Madame Rouge!"

"Foolish girl, you never stood a chance." Rouge sneered as she sharpened her fingers into metallic claws.

***

"Come on, show yourself!" Terra shouted into the darkness as the laughter seemingly surrounded her. She edged closer to the walls, using it to keep her bearings, while at the same time she threw blind attacks at the darkness, dislodging a boulder here and there while sending a barrage of rocks in all directions. It was the only defense she had.

As she aimed her attacks onto the ceiling and on the area in front of her, she felt a swift kick sweep at her feet, knocking her back. A sinister glint of steel flashed for an instant, and Terra had already summoned a stone bo staff from the cavern walls to parry it. The Titan brought her second fist up to send a rock pillar Chesire's way but the assassin kept attacking, keeping Terra off balance.

Another kick sent Terra flying back, while in the darkness, Chesire armed herself with her wrist guard claws.

Terra jumped back, sending a barrage of rocks towards Chesire as she had an idea where her attacker was coming from, but Chesire simply sliced them all out of the air.

Hearing the footsteps, Terra summoned a rock boulder beneath her with the intention of flying above her assailant, but Chesire was quicker, knocking the Titan off her ride as she jump kicked Terra, making the Titan land right in the center of the cavern, far from the walls and rock formations that hugged the edge. Terra's boulder, now without it's master, unceremoniously dropped onto the ground, shattering into a million pieces.

I can't keep this up forever. Terra thought, her opponent clearly had experience fighting in the darkness, but this was not completely new to her as well........

***

"

Terra grunted as she fell face flat onto the desert plateau, her opponent already getting the best of her as he had all afternoon. Bruises and dirt scrapes covering her entire body, as though she had been dragged through an entire canyon and back.

"Get up apprentice, the real training hasn't even begun yet." A tall dark menacing figure towered above her, black armor laced around him while a mask obscured his face. The figure, like Terra, had a bo staff in hand.

"How can I?" Terra gasped for breath as the last kick took the wind out of her. "How can i even defend myself when you've tied THIS around my eyes!?" Terra pulled at the blindfold that was strapped securely around her head, almost forcibly. Despite her best efforts, she couldn't get it off.

"If you wish to control your powers, you must first learn to listen to your senses. That requires focus." Slade went on, lecturing his student. "Focus requires no distractions. Taking away your sight is one way to hone your other senses."

Before Terra could even get back up, Slade delivered another devastating kick towards Terra, straight into the stomach. Terra almost hurled as she was thrown back against a boulder. Gripping her fist, she sent a blind rock storm straight at Slade, only it missed him by a few inches due to her being unable to see.

"Good. You are getting the hang of it." Slade said nonchalantly.

"How can you expect me to fight if I can't see!?" Terra protested chidingly.

"Oh, but you can see. You just don't realize it yet. That's why I am here, you just need the proper motivation." Slade said menacingly as he stepped towards Terra.

Terra almost choked from the pain as she reached blindly for her bo staff. She had no idea why she even decided to take Slade up on his offer, but if it gave her a chance to control her powers again.

Blindfolded, bo staff in hand, she rushed Slade again, this time parrying one of his blows briefly before getting smashed in the face with his counter strike.

"Don't bother taking time to think, I won't give you the time. The first part of this lesson, is to simply hit me while defending yourself. You don't need to see to do that, it should come naturally to you."

"I need to know my surroundings." Terra protested.

"Why is that?" Slade asked innocently.

"So I can plan my attack. You taught me those moves but I need to see someone to use them on, not to mention what's around me!" Indeed, Slade had trained Terra intensively in close quarters combat before this little exercise....so why was he putting her in a situation where they were totally useless?

"You analyze too much my dear." Slade said simply.

"Brains win over Brawn." Terra said defiantly.

"Of course," Slade said instructively, "but Instinct wins over brains. Look at your friends...like that Beast Boy of yours, if he had to think every time he fought, he wouldn't be able to make it out the door. I want you to be able to act in the moment, to defend yourself and attack as though it is second nature. Thinking takes place at a higher level than mere pummeling."

"Then why teach me all those moves?" Terra asked, slightly annoyed at Slade's smug tone.

"That is so you know the fundamentals, but knowing that can only get you so far. You must practice, practice and apply until it becomes as easily as breathing to you. Do so until you can do the same moves over and over again in your sleep....or in the dark."

Terra wiped the sweat off her brow, pulling up another stone bo staff from the earth so that now she was armed with two. Slade bots began surrounding her now as her master decided to take the training to the next level.

She was ready.

http://th04.deviantart.net/fs9/300W/i/2006/051/3/5/Terra_Training_Final_by_DeathscytheVII.jpg

***

Terra she reached into her pocket, pulling out an old blindfold and began tying it around her head to cover her eyes. The cave was so dark that even this action didn't change any of Terra's vision as she finished the knot. Yet, she remained collected, her sporatic breathing from seconds ago reduced to a calm, meditative rate.

Chesire, noticing that her opponent blindfolding herself, wondered whether she had lost her mind. But deciding that it was a moot point, she charged straight at Terra, claws and katana out, closing the distance with lightning speed.

Sensing the vibration of the earth, Terra quickly turned around, jerking her head instinctively towards her opponent and summoning two rock spires that shot out in front of Chesire's path.

The assassin was caught off guard by this attack, and jumped into the air, only to be met with Terra assaulting her with Twin bo staffs. Chesire quickly parried with the Katana, but could not avoid the second lunge straight at her face.

Chesire's mask almost cracked as Terra landed her direct hit, temporarily throwing the cat-like assassin off balance. With a feral growl, Chesire retaliated, kicking Terra beneath the ribs as she was knocked down by the bo staff and sending the titan flying forwards onto the ground.

Terra however, had by that time manipulated a boulder to appear beneath her, giving her a platform to land on before hitting the ground. Chesire meanwhile, dug her claws into the ground on impact, sliding to a stop on the other side of the arena. She was taken aback by Terra's sudden change in technique, it was as though she was fighting a completely different person.

Deciding on the side of caution, Chesire assumed a defensive stance, confident that she could take advantage of any mistakes Terra may make on her offensive.

"YAH!" Terra shouted as she propelled the boulder she was standing on straight at Chesire. The assassin slipped beneath it, letting it explode harmlessly on the wall behind her, she looked ahead to prepare for Terra's strike and on cue, a hailstorm of rocks assailed her. But Chesire effortlessly swatted these aside with her Katana and claws, cutting them to dust and rubble even as she was forced to step back a few feet.

She fully expected Terra to rush through the rock storm, but to her surprise nothing happened.

"Right behind you." Terra whispered, and Chesire barely had time to turn around wide eyed as the ground beneath her exploded with a tremor, throwing up a wall of ash and dust that covered the villainess.

Terra stepped forward, bo staff in hand, and at that point, Chesire realized that she had hid herself behind the boulder she threw at her in the first strike, the rock storm being nothing but a diversion.

Before Chesire could even get up however, snakes of earth were summoned from the ground, shackling her down by her wrists and legs. She snarled in anger, realizing that for the first time ever, she was beaten.

"Game over." Terra smirked, pointing her Bo Staff downwards at her opponent, she had her dead to rights.

Suddenly the entire arena lit up again, as torches magically appeared on the walls. A quick flash of lightning engulfed Chesire, and within an instant the Villainess was teleported away.

"Chesire is eliminated, the winner is Terra!"

***

"You think you have a chance against me Witch?" Jinx locked hands with Raven again, the air around them was rippling with flashes of electricity, both black and violet.

"Look whose talking." Raven grunted under the strain, despite her power, Jinx was definitely getting the upper hand in these close encounters.

"Azarath metrion-" The Titan began chanting.

"Too slow." Jinx grinned as she shoved Raven away, snapping her fingers to summon forth another hex shockwave. Raven grunted as she was thrown back a good dozen yards, but somehow managed to bring herself to a stop in mid air.

Jinx, to her surprise, noted that Raven's eyes were still glowing.

"Zinthos."

A huge black soul bird quickly enveloped Raven, and with a cackling roar launched itself straight at Jinx.

"You think your pretty light show can stop me?" Jinx said defiantly, then threw two waves of Hex energy at the soul bird. They simply dissolved on contact as Raven's soul bird continued it's relentless attack.

"Oh-" Jinx shouted, just as the entire arena lit up in a flash.

A low roar rumbled through the air, shaking all the platforms in the arena as the soul bird exploded on contact, disappearing into a ball of flame and black chakra, as well taking out the platform Jinx was standing and a dozen others nearby. With an 'OOOF', Jinx landed unceremoniously onto another stone platform, her uniform still smoking from Raven's last attack.

Raven appeared floating before Jinx, evidently exhausted from the last attack. It seemed she used all her powers.

"Is that all you've got?" Jinx smiled evilly as she realized she had the upper hand in power reserves.

"Almost, but I don't need any more to finish you." Raven smirked.

"What are you talking about? You've used more power than me. I've just been toying with you all this time." The H.I.V.E member quipped annoyingly.

"Or maybe....I was just thinking ahead." Raven nonchalantly pointed to the arena around them, and within an instant, Jinx realized what had happened.

All the circular platforms, the dozens of foating stone circles that filled the room when they started. There was only one left, the one Jinx that was standing on.

"What?! This isn't fair!" The HIVE member, realizing this, cursed her opponent and her ability to levitate.

"Better luck next time." Raven smirked, then snapped her fingers. A black shroud quickly enveloped the last platform dissolving it into a cloud of dust.

"I'll get you back for thiiiiiiiiiiiiis!" Jinx shouted as she fell into the seemingly bottomless pit of the arena. Before she landed however, she vanished in a flash of lightning.

"The winner is........... Raven!"

Within moments, Raven herself vanished in a blinding flash of light.

***

"Aw yeah! You won!" Terra gave Raven a friendly slap on the back as her friend materialized before her.

Raven smiled as she saw that Terra too had advanced to the next round, but then she looked around the domed arena and the remaining contestants.

"Where's Starfire?" The sorceress inquired.

"I'm afraid she was too weak to survive the first round. A pity really." Blackfire emerged from the shadows, and within an instant was reward with a deathly glare from both titans.

"Well played!" The Master of games cut off the impending confrontation as he appeared in another flash of light above the platform, right in front of the heroines. There were now five heroines left. Raven, Terra, Blackfire, Rouge and Argent.

"You have survived the first round." The master spread his arms out magnanimously as if in tribute to his contestants.

"What happened to the ones who didn't?" Raven stepped up.

"Yeah, where's Starfire?" Terra asked.

The Master of Games chuckled softly. "Please heroines, no need to worry. I was merely using a figure of speech. The others have been returned home safely. You need not concern yourselves with them, for now you must rest, for tomorrow, is round two!"

Before Terra, Raven or the others could even say another word. The Master of games summoned another 5 bolts, these ones summoning his champions to their quarters outside the dome, where they would rest for the night.

"This is even going better than I had originally planned....soon, the prizes will all be mine and then no hero or heroine will ever be able to match me again." He chuckled softly to himself as he casually clasped the jewel necklace he wore, ignoring the muffled screams that emerged from within it's casing.

"Sleep tight, my little heroines, for tomorrow indeed, is a big day."