Teen Titans X: Season 1 [Archive]

Atoragon

12-26-2006, 12:52 AM

Episode 01: Return

The caned figure grumbled as he walked up the seemingly endless flights of stares. ‘I just had to forget the code to the elevator, didn’t I?’ He got to floor he wanted to get to and wheezed. He still had completely healed from the incident, although he though he should be, it had been two weeks.

He turned and stared at the twin sliding doors. ‘I hope they haven’t given up all hope on me. It did seem as if I died the last time they saw me. They may just think that I’m an illusion, a figment of their imagination. No. I can’t have those sorts of thoughts. They will remember me, I hope.’ He took a deep breath before stepping through the door into the lounge on the other side.

“CIPHER!” five voices yelled in unison, surprised at who just walked through the door. Five bodies that accompanied those voices soon surrounded him.

“Hello, ya’ll,” replied Cipher as he tried to pry Starfire off of him. “Nice to see you too.”

“Yo, buddy, how’s it hangin’?” asked Cyborg, patting Cipher on the back.

“Not bad. I still can’t walk straight. My legs have some really bad atrophy, but I’m okay.”

“I can fix that,” said Raven. She knelt down next to him and her began to glow in a rippling, light blue aura. In a matter of seconds, Cipher was completely healed.

“Thanks, Rae.” Raven then noticed the cane that Cipher held.

“Where’d you get that cane?”

“Ahh. A little thing given to me after a conversation with your mother, Raven.”

“That’s impossible, my mother is dead and Azarath was destroyed.”

“Seemed pretty alive and well when I was there.” Raven then stood up.

“What do you mean?”

“When I got myself hurt, I was teleported away, right? Well, when I regained consciousness, High Priests Drakar and Ivanovich were standing over me, along with Arella. They said that I was in Azarath and that they had healed me from a near death state.”

“That still doesn’t explain how you got my father’s cane.”

“Is that what it is? Your mother did say that it would help prove to you that I was there.”

“So she’s still alive?!”

“Unless that was an extremely realistic hallucination that hands me canes and heals me, then yes.”

“I’ll be in my room.” Raven then dashed out of the lounge and to the left, towards the sector that contained her room.

“That went… a lot smoother than I thought it would go.”

“What were you expecting?” inquired Robin.

“Well, I was expecting to be called a liar and a thief. I was expecting a smack across the face for leaving you guys for no reason and probably a hint that I needed to go throw myself into the Pits of Aziamoth.”

“True,” said Cyborg, stroking his chin. “That is Raven-like.”

“So why do you think she ran off to her room?”

“She’s probably going to meditate to ponder about what you told her,” replied Robin.

“Makes sense.”

“Want to play some Gamestation?”

“Sure.”

+++++

Cipher and Cyborg had been playing round after round of video games for the last hours. Beast Boy was watching, waiting for his turn. Starfire and Robin were no where to be seen.

“What do ya think Raven’s up to?” asked Beast Boy. “It’s been like 8 hours.”

“Dunno. I would have expected her to be gone 2, maybe 3 hours,” replied Cipher, finally looking away from the video games for time at the door to the hallway.

“Yeah,” added Cyborg. “She’s missed lunch and dinner. I know that she likes to be alone, but something is definitely up.”

“You know what, I think I’ll go check on her. Just to be safe,” said Cipher handing Beast Boy the controller to the video games.

“Be careful, man. You know how she hates to be interrupted while meditating.”

“Something tells me that she’s not meditating anymore.” Cipher passed out of the lounge, down one flight of stairs and towards the west wing of the tower, which was where Raven’s room was located.

“So, what do ya think Cipher’s gonna find?” asked Beast Boy.

“Probably Raven angry at him for interrupting her ‘me time’ or something like that,” replied Cyborg. Robin and Starfire enter the room, talking between themselves.

“Hey guys! Come over here!” called Beast Boy to the talking pair. Starfire nodded in response and the two walked over.

“What’s up BB?” asked Robin.

“Dudes, since we’re all here except Cipher and Raven, I think it’s a good time I showed you what I dug up in Cipher’s trunk when I went a snoopin’ in his room while he was gone in Azarath. Look.” Beast Boy reached into a pocket inside his jumpsuit and pulled out a photograph. “Recognize some people?”

“This photos something like its about 7 years old,” commented Cyborg, “and that looks like Cipher, Raven, Terra and three other people, but I can’t recognize those other three.”

“So, our friend Cipher has met Raven and Terra in the past?” asked Starfire.

“Yeah, that probably explains why Raven wasn’t skeptical when she first met him. She recognized him from somewhere, but probably just subconsciously.”

“But that still doesn’t explain who the other three in the picture are.”

“Blaze. Parsiath. Aquos,” stated Cipher as he walked into the lounge. “What you found was the last group photo of the Oracles before the ‘incident’.”

“Who are Blaze, Parsiath and Aquos? And what is this ‘incident’ that you speak about?”

“They are the Oracles of Garudan, the God of Fire, Raixernan, the God of the Winds and Aegirius, the God of Water respectively. I’ll tell you about the ‘incident’ on a later occasion. Now, where was I? Ah, yes. Cyborg, Raven is not in her room and I believe that she is nowhere in the Tower. Try calling her on her communicator.”

“I’ll get right on it,” replied Cyborg. He ran over to the computer and typed some commands into the computer. A message saying ‘Target not in range’ appeared on the TV. “Where’d you think she went?”

“Our best guess in Azarath,” replied Robin looking up at the screen. “She would want to see her family after all this time and because its in another dimension, that would explain why we can’t get a hold of her on her communicator.”

“Nah, man. After our little tournament with the Master of Games, I reworked all the communicators so that they could send messages across inter-dimensional boundaries. Its more likely she just turned it off.”

“But that doesn’t explain why she lied to us about where she was going.”

“If we knew where she was going,” chimed in Cipher, “she probably knew that we’d want to tag along. She probably thought it wasn’t the right time to introduce us to her parents. Oh, wait. We have already met her father, so it just wasn’t time to meet her mother.”

“You’re right.” The Titans all looked up to the TV to see that it was Raven that had spoke. Raven had unusually happy expression on her face.

“Yeah, so, umm, how was the trip?”

“Not bad,” replied Raven trying to suppress a giggle.

“What’s up?” asked Cipher, noticing the giggle.

“Oh, nothing.”

“You know Raven, you never have been a good liar. Not now. Not seven years ago.” Raven stared at Cipher confusedly. Cipher flashed the picture of the six Oracles. “Don’t tell me you don’t remember. The first time we met, ten years ago. The three grueling years of training to be Oracles we endured together. We were like best friends and you can’t remember it at all, can you Sarelle?”

“No one has called me that…”

“In seven years. You changed your name to Raven when you learned about the Prophecy that you were to become The Raven, the Great Destroyer of Earth.”

“I know what I did.” Raven voice started to become a little tense. “Now the reason I’m calling is for you, Cipher. You apparently left in such a hurry that some very important people in Azarath that wanted to see you never got to thank you properly, including King Metrion himself. He asks that you return to Azarath so that he can thank you properly.”

“Well, I would simply love to come, but no one here can create a portal to Azarath.”

“A messenger will be sent for you and the rest of the Titans. Raven out.” The comm. link snapped off.

“Dude, I think you annoyed her almost as much as I do by calling her by that other name,” laughed Beast Boy.

“Yeah. Sarelle is her name by birth, but she doesn’t like it very much. I bet you 5 dollars that when we get to Azarath, she’ll smack me for calling her that.”

“Nah,” said Cyborg. “We don’t need to bet. We already know she’ll smack you good.” A circular symbol appeared on the ground in the middle of the Titans’ lounge. A cylindrical tower of white energy erupted from the circle and a man clad in white robes walked out from the portal.

“Can I help you?” inquired Robin.

“I am fine,” replied the man. “Now if you don’t mind, we shall proceed immediately.” The Titans followed the stranger into the portal, which had expanded to fit them all inside. There was a flash of light and the portal vanished.

Azarath. There was a flash of light and the Titans emerged in a great hall. The high ceiling arced upward to where there was a skylight providing the only illumination for the room. Raven walked in a joined them in the hall. She looked a little tired, probably from being up all night catching up with Arella. She then reached over and smacked Cipher across the cheek.

“Pay up, BB,” said Cipher holding out his hand. Beast Boy grumbled as he dug through his pockets. A voice called out to them from across the hall.

“Hello there and welcome to Azarath,” said the voice.

“King Metrion!” squealed Raven as she ran over and put him a tight embrace. King Metrion was able to pull her off of him.

“Ah, isn’t it Raven. You’re just as beautiful as the day you left. Your skin is still kinda gray. Maybe you should consider going to that place on Earth called ‘Maui’ and doing that thing humans do called ‘tanning’.”

“I’ll look into it,” replied Raven beginning to blush.

“Yeah she’ll look into it,” said Beast Boy from behind Raven loud enough so every one could here. “She’ll think about it for about 2 seconds, say ‘Hell No’, then go back to reading books in her room.”

“Beast Boy, can it,” said Cipher giving Beast Boy a dirty look.

“So reading’s still your favorite hobby I see. How many times did we have to forcibly remove you from the Grand Library because it was closing?”

“Umm, 27 times.”

“That sounds about right.” Metrion’s gaze changed to Cipher. “Now you must be Cipher.”

“Uhh, yeah,” replied Cipher.

“I have heard much about you from Drakar and Ivanovich. I wish to thank you personally for restoring Azarath. I wish for you to sit at my side at a great ceremonial feast.”

“That’s nice and all, but I don’t really do big ceremonial feasts and such. It’s not really my style. Just getting to meet you is thanks enough for me. Now if you don’t mind, I think I’ll be going.” Cipher swung open the door leading out of the hall and slammed it shut just as quickly, trying to avoid the hordes of people there to see him. Cipher looked like he was going to have a heart attack. The look on his face was sheer terror. “You never mentioned hordes of young Azarathian women wanting to go on a date with me.”

“Dude! I would kill to be in your shoes!” hollered Beast Boy.

“Oh, it seems I forgot to mention that,” laughed Raven.

“Okay, we’re even Sarelle! How in hell do you call them off?!” shrieked Cipher. Raven could not hold in the laughter.

Raven walked over the door, opened it up, and yelled, “He’s taken!” The horde began to dissipate at the news.

“What the hell is up?” asked Cyborg.

“Little fact I picked up about Cipher back when we were training to become Oracles together: he is deathly afraid of large groups of girls,” giggled Raven.

“That is a weird phobia.”

“But a fun one to exploit.”

“That was not funny,” said Cipher, coming out of his shock.

“You’re right,” agreed Beast Boy. “It’s hilarious!”

“Come on,” said Raven still with a faint hint of a giggle. “I’ll take you guys to meet my mother.” The Titans walked through the streets of Azarath City. It was much more impressive that any of them could have imagined. After about 5 minutes of walking, they all stopped in front of a large house. Raven walked inside and the others followed.

“You’re home, Sarelle, that’s good,” said Arella as she watched the six pile into the foyer

“Mom,” replied Raven in an annoyed tone.

“Oh, I forgot. It’s Raven now, isn’t it? I’ve got some herbal tea on the stove. Why don’t you all come into the kitchen?”

+++++

A white flash enveloped the room and the Titans stood in their lounge once again.

“Urrghh, too… much… tea,” moaned Beast Boy as he collapsed on the couch.

“Does Beast Boy feel the sickness from consuming too much of the tea?” inquired Starfire.

“Told ya not to drink so much B,” added Cyborg.

“We’ve had a long day. We should all get some sleep,” insisted Robin.

End Episode 01

I know its sort of anticlimactic, but I couldn’t think of any other way to end this. Episode 02 will be out, I hope, in about 4 days to a week.

Atoragon

12-28-2006, 11:23 PM

Here is the long awaited (Is it? Probaly not.) Episode 02. Hope you enjoy.

Episode 02: Revelations

Tokorei, Aerkusto
January 4, 1999
9:15 PM

A thin blanket of snow had covered the streets of Tokorei. People hustled to get to their homes or other sort of shelter before it got any worse, not noticing the seven Russian Special Forces soldiers hunkered down in an alley way.

“< Sergei, could you please explain our mission priorities again? >”

“< The KGB wants us to capture alive six children. >”

“< What is so special about these children? >”

“< They are believed to have some sort of special abilities. It is claimed the gods of the national religion here in Aerkusto granted them these abilities. But that’s just [insert curse word], you know that Dmitri. The KGB believes that these six, with the proper training, will become the ‘perfect assassins’ to take out those damn American businessmen like Bruce Wayne who are taking away all of Mother Russia’s economy by selling their better quality goods to who were formerly our business associates. >”

“< Why are we not striking now? I’m [insert curse word] frozen. >”

“< We have to wait for Mikhail to return with reconnaissance information. >”

“< Thank God we don’t have to wait anymore. Here he comes. >”

“< Lieutenant Sergei Mikoyan, I have completed scouting out the targets. There seems to be minimal resistance. The only people standing between our goal and us are two ‘priests’ of some kind. The look old, so they should be no trouble. The children themselves apparently have advanced in their abilities and look as if they may put up quite a fight. Two in particular, a male who has control over electricity and a female who looks as if she has control of shadows or something like that, look extremely dangerous. >”

“< We’ll have to watch out for them. The KGB wants them ALL alive, so stow your rifles and prepare your tranquilizer darts. Let’s not make any mistakes. Move out. >”

The now eight soldiers snuck out from their hiding spot and towards the side entrance of the temple. They snuck threw the side passages that connected the storage rooms to the rest of temple.

+++++

The six children sat in a circle in the central room of the temple talking to themselves. High Priest Ivanovich enters the room with news for them.

“< Children, children, calm down please, >” soothed Ivanovich. “< I have good news. You have successfully completed your training. You are all now officially Oracles, but to keep your identities safe, you can say, you will be given code names. Rorek Gurevich, you shall be Blaze. Tara Markov, you shall be Terra. Renée Freneau, you shall be Aquos. Erik Hildebrand, you are now Parsiath. Sarelle Trigon, I believe the name Raven should suit you. And finally you, Bowen Fleischer, you’re now Cipher. >”

“< Hey, Sarelle, >” said Cipher leaning next to Raven’s ear, “< What do you think these names mean? >”

“< I don’t know why they named you Cipher. In Latin, ‘Cipher’ means ‘zero’. But mine, it comes from the ancient scriptures. ‘Raven’ is the name of the daughter and portal to the material realm of a dark demon named Trigon. >”

“< So it sucks for both of us pretty much. But that gets me thinking, are you the… well you know… of this Trigon? >”

“< My past is my own. I wish not to discuss it or to remember it. >”

“< Uh, huh. >”

Just then, the side door to the main room to the temple exploded and the eight SF soldiers rushed into the room, firing their tranquilizers. Three Oracles and High Priest Ivanovich fell over unconscious before they even knew what was happening. High Priest Drakar rushed into the room after hearing the commotion.

“< What do you want? >” he demanded.

“< I am Lt. Sergei Mikoyan of the Russian Special Forces, >” replied the apparent leader of the group. “< I now claim these children in the name of the KGB and Mother Russia. >”

“< What do you want with them? >”

“< You don’t recognize the potential of these children as assassins, do you? >”

“< You c… >” Drakar was cut off as a single tranquilizer dart was shot into his neck. He fell over next to Ivanovich. Sergei then turned his attention to Cipher, Raven and Parsiath, the three who had not been hit by darts.

“< Come now, children, >“ he urged. Ciphers looked down at the two unconscious priests and then back up at Sergei.

“< No, >” Cipher replied coldly.

“< Why you little… >” Sergei’s words were cut off as his gun was enveloped in obsidian energy, ripped out of his hands and thrashed into the side of his head. He fell over, blood gushing from the skull fracture caused by the impact. Two more soldiers aim their guns at the group, but Cipher let loose a lightning bolt, striking the two soldiers in the chests, causing them to drop their weapons in the shock. Sergei began to stand back up. “< Run! Abort the mission! >” he ordered. The soldiers turned and ran out the door they had entered.

+++++

Jump City, United States
February 21, 2007
10:30 AM

Cipher sat on his bed, looking at the picture of the Oracles, remembering ‘the incident’ as he remembered it by. He heard a soft knock on his door. He looked up to see Starfire standing in his doorway.

“Cipher, do you want some breakfast?”

“No.”

“This is most unlike you. Does something trouble you?” Cipher was unable to answer. He opened his mouth to answer, but no sound came out. “Cipher, we are your friends. You can speak to us about anything. Something is troubling you, please talk to us.”

“I guess it’s time that I explain to you ‘the incident’ that has been haunting me for seven years.” Cipher stood up and walked towards the door. “Come on, Star. I’ll explain it to you along with the rest of the team. I think it’s time the team learned a little bit ‘bout my past, seeing how I know all ‘bout yours.”

Cipher and Starfire walked down to the lounge in silence. When they entered, Cyborg was doing dishes. Raven was sitting at the table, reading. Beast Boy was deep into a new video game he and Cyborg had purchased. Robin was still eating.

“Friends! Cipher has decided to tell us about ‘the incident’ that has haunted him for seven years. We should all listen.” Raven noticed Cipher staring at the ground, trying to avoid making eye contact with anyone

“Cipher,” began Raven. “You don’t have to tell us if you want to.”

“No, Raven,” replied Cipher. “I think it time you all learned about my past. I know too much about your past for you not to know any ‘bout mine.”

“So lets here it,” said Cyborg drying off his hands after completing the dishes.

“Okay. To begin, my father is a mercenary ace pilot. When I was 3, my mother was killed in an air strike against the base my father was based at. After that, I was no longer taken with him when he traveled around the world and was forced to stay in foster care in Aerkusto. I have only seen my father once since then, when I was told I was going to become an Oracle. Right after I ‘graduated’ from training for being an Oracle, a Russian Special Forces team attacked the temple. They wanted to take the six of us and turn us into ‘the perfect assassins’. They failed. Right after that, Raven ran away, and I hadn’t seen her since I became a Titan. The other four went their own ways. Then, two months ago, I was given a mission to find the Oracle of Ralivar. That explains why I’m here in the U.S. When I came upon Jump City, four unidentified aircraft attacked me. That’s when I met you guys. You know the rest of story from there.”

“And I thought my past was bad,” commented Beast Boy. The door leading to the main hall exploded and a single man walked into the lounge.

“Sergei,” scowled Cipher.

“ Aww, so you do remember me,” replied Sergei in a very thick Russian accent. He then pulled out his sidearm and pointed it at Cipher’s head. “I have come for the two Oracles. Those two know who they are.”

“Dude, Cipher, it this that Sergei guy from seven years ago?” asked Beast Boy shocked at the man’s sudden entrance.

“Yes. Yes he is.” Beast Boy’s gaze turned back to Sergei. His gun began to glow with black energy but he quickly shifted his aim to Raven.

“Uh, uh, uh. I wouldn’t try that if I were you. You see, I expected you to do that, so I trained myself against it. I could put a bullet right through that gem on your forehead before you rip this gun from my hands. Do you really want to take that chance?”

“Sergei, why are you here?!” demanded Cipher.

“To avoid punishment. I made a deal with President Putan. If I searched nonstop for the Oracles and eventually brought them in so that they could be brainwashed and put under KGB control, I would avoid being banished to Siberia. I have already brought in the other four, so its just you two standing between myself and freedom from certain death.”

“You aren’t taking them away,” yelled Robin.

“Watch me.”

“Yeah? You and what army?” chirped Beast Boy.

“My army,” replied a man from behind Sergei who slowly walked through the doorway. Slade. He was followed by at least five-dozen of his robot commandoes.

“You just had to ask,” complained Cyborg. “You couldn’t just keep your mouth closed, couldn’t you?”

“Titans, GO!”

With Robin’s rallying call, the Titans jumped into action. Raven grabbed sections of the couch and hurled them at the group of commandoes, taking out four or five at a time. Starfire flew up near the ceiling of the room and let loose a hailstorm of starbolts. Realizing that their forces were being decimated, Sergei and Slade made a run for it. With a thrust to the faceplate with his bo staff, Robin removed the final commando as a threat.

“Where did Slade and Sergei run off to?” inquired Starfire as she settled back on to the ground.

“Back to their rat hole,” scowled Robin through gritted teeth. He turned away from the door and back to his team and surveyed the damage. “Lets get this mess cleaned up.”

“Done,” commented Raven as the room began to unravel from dark energy.

“Whoa,” stammered Beast Boy in awestruck at how fast Raven had cleaned. “Could you… umm… possibly… do this to… my room?”

“No.”

“Why not?” Raven folded her arms across her chest in disgust.

“Because your room smells like three year old pizza and dirty socks. There is no way you are getting me into your room to clean it for you,” Raven scoffed. “Like I would anyways.”

“What if I did the face? I know you can’t resist the face.” Beast Boy morphed into a small cat with abnormally large eyes. He looked up at Raven and purred sweetly. Raven rolled her eyes.

“You are mistaken. [I]Starfire can’t resist the face. I find it quite easy to resist.” Beast Boy changed back into a human and looked at the floor.

“It was worth a try.”

“If that was a try, then I’m afraid to see what not trying is.”

“Thanks for trying to cheer me up,” moaned Beast Boy sarcastically.

“Glad I could help.” Beast Boy trudged off towards his room

“You know Raven,” commented Cipher. “That was quite cruel… and quite entertaining at the same time.”

“If you think that was bad, you should have seen me when Beast Boy tried to make me play video games with him when Cyborg left to start up the Titans East.”

“That was quite interesting,” chimed in Starfire. “For us anyways, maybe not for Beast Boy.” The warning sirens blared interrupting the Titans’ flashback. Beast Boy had returned from his sulking when he heard the alarm. Cyborg ran to the computer to see what the trouble was.

“What’s up, Cy?” asked Cipher.

“Well Cipher, it looks like your ‘buddy’ is trying to draw us out so that the playing field is level,” replied Cyborg.

“Sergei?”

“Whom else would I be referring to?”

“Sorry. Where’s he attacking?”

“Downtown.”

“Titans, Go!” commanded Robin. The six Titans rushed down to the garage. Robin hopped on his R-cycle and the rest piled into the T-car. The raced over the bridge that connected Titans Island to the mainland and into the downtown district, which was where the disturbance was reported. They stopped a ways down the street at Cipher’s insistence and crouched behind a car.

“Robin! Get down!”

“What? Why?”

“Robin, I know more about this guy than any of you. He is a strategic genius. I know he’s done his research about the Titans before attacking. He probably knows about your guys tendencies to just rush in and assess the situation when you get there. He most likely has snipers on the rooftops. Cy, can you take a look?”

“Sure thing,” replied Cyborg. He pressed a button on the side of his head and his robotic eye entered IR mode. “I see ‘em. There’s ‘bout twelve perched at random intervals.”

“Can you take them out?”

“I can take out four. Star with have to do the other eight ‘cause they’re at angles I can’t hit ‘em.”

“Then get on it.” Cyborg nodded. Starfire gently lifted up so that she was level with the rooftops. Beast Boy cupped his hands over his ears as the noise from four blasts from Cyborg’s sonic cannon and eight starbolts being hurled was near deafening. “Okay Robin.” Cipher patted Robin on the back. “Now you can go charging in recklessly.” On cue, Robin pulled out his bo staff in his left hand and three explosive discs in his right. He threw the discs, which exploded on contact with three minions that fell to the ground in a smoldering mess.

“Titans, Go!” commanded Cyborg and the rest of the Titans joined the fight. Cyborg used the car that they had been waiting behind as cover as he took out minions with his sonic cannon. Raven had a streetlight firmly in the grasp of her powers and was ‘playing baseball’ with the minions. Starfire hovered at roof top level. She cast two starbolts and knocked two minions off their feet. Beast Boy had turned himself in a gorilla and with his large arms, grabbed minions, ripped off their limbs and threw the bodies at the advancing column of troops. Cipher, however, hung back and watched.

‘Where is he?’ he thought to himself. ‘Where is that bastard Sergei.’ Then out of the corner of his eye, he noticed them. Sergei and Slade. They were hunched down inside of an alleyway. Cipher approached Cyborg.

“Cyborg, look over there,” whispered Cipher pointing at the alleyway. “Slade and Sergei.”

+++++

“This isn’t as we planned, Slade,” complained Sergei as he watched the minions being slaughtered.

“Patience, partner,” soothed Slade, holding up a hand. “This is going exactly as I planned. We are learning about the Titans’ new member. We are learning his fighting style, his strengths… his weaknesses.”

“True. But I already know all of that. He is a strategist. He thinks out everything. He’s a good all-round fighter, close up and long ranged. His only real weakness is his past and that Titan there.” Sergei pointed at the Titan in the blue cloak that levitated above the street.

“Raven?”

“Yes, well, I believe that’s her name. He seemed quite ‘attached’, as I believe you Americans would say, when I originally tried to capture them seven years ago.”

“Then our investigation is do…” Slade was cut off as he dodged a sonic blast that was aimed for his head.

“I suggest we get out of here.”

“Agreed.” Slade and Sergei ran just as Cipher tried to zap them with a lightning bolt. The bolt went astray and collided with a window, shattering it.

+++++

“The battle has reached its completeness. We are victorious!” exclaimed Starfire as she floated back down to the ground after putting the ‘finishing touches’ on the last minions.

“Do you think so?” inquired Cipher.

“By what do you mean?”

“We may have won this battle, but the war is just starting.”

“Since Sergei is after Raven and Cipher,” added Robin. “He is now an enemy of the Teen Titans. And just like any other enemy, he’s going down!”

End Episode 02

Atoragon

12-31-2006, 12:48 PM

here's episode 03. i had to do a christmas episode. i just sort of hit me with like a slippery fish. for those who want a big battle and such, sorry. this lacks one of those.

Episode 03: Christmas???

December 23rd

The boys were sitting on the couch watching TV. Raven was sitting at the table reading one of her larger books. She swore that she could hear their brains rotting and decomposing from the TV. They all wheeled around with shock when they heard Starfire burst into the room squealing.

“Friends! I have just looked at the ‘list of day’ and realized a great moment is approaching!”

“Uh, Starfire? Don’t ya mean calendar?” corrected Beast Boy.

“Yes, calendar. Well I looked at this calendar and realized that Christmas is in two days!”

“Christmas?” inquired Cipher. He had a truly puzzled look on his face.

“Do you not know what Christmas is?”

“No clue. Back home in Aerkusto, there was only six holidays. One celebrating each god. That was it.”

“Then you have truly been missing out! On Christmas, we take a coniferous tree and decorate it with lights and ornaments.” Starfire twirled into the air with glee. “Oh! Oh! Oh! Then we go out and buy each other presents and place them under the tree!”

“So pretty much after Christmas, you are left with a mess of needles from the tree and stuff you have no use for?”

“Pretty much,” replied Raven, not looking up from her book.

“Oh, but the memories are so great!” squealed Starfire, flying higher into the air. “We must go retrieve a tree of which to decorate!”

“Must we?” Raven groaned.

“Oh yes Raven! We must! Cyborg, will you take us to the lot of trees?”

“All right y’all let’s go.” Cyborg, Beast Boy, Starfire and Robin ran down to the garage and hopped into the T-car. Cipher listened to them drive away before he spoke.

“Crazy here in the US, isn’t it? They’ve got a holiday for pretty much everything,” stated Cipher as he walked over to fridge and began to rummage for food.

“You’ll get used to it… eventually,” replied Raven, finally looking up from her book.

“Any thing else for Christmas I should be afraid of? I could tell Starfire was leaving some stuff out.” Cipher had pulled out a piece of pizza but dropped it when it began to hiss and bear its teeth.

“Well, children believe that this fat man with a long white beard and a red suit comes down your chimney and leaves presents.” Cipher had by then pulled out the mallet that Cyborg used for tenderizing meat and began to beat the slice of pizza into submission. “Oh, and there is the singing of carols, the decorations, and mistletoe.” Raven shuddered at every item she listed.

“Mistletoe? What would people want with a fungus?” asked Cipher as he gingerly picked up the dead slice of pizza. He walked over to the table and sat down across from Raven.

“On Christmas, if two people are standing underneath, they have to kiss.” Raven was not a fan of the whole concept of Christmas, especially mistletoe. The thoughts forced her to change the subject. “All that for a slice of pizza, huh?”

“Hunting instinct I guess.” Cipher took a large bite out of the once fearsome pizza warrior.

“You call beating a slice of pizza with a mallet hunting instinct?”

“It’s not exactly as the gods intended, but its close enough for me.”

+++++

“Oh we have to get this tree, Cyborg!” squealed Starfire. “Oh, oh, oh! How ‘bout his one?!”

“Starfire,” moaned Cyborg. “That makes 47 different trees you’ve wanted. Can’t ya just pick one?”

“Oh, okay. How ‘bout this one?” Starfire was pointing at a 15-foot noble fir.

“As long as you don’t change your mind,” replied Cyborg as he hefted the tree onto his shoulder. They paid for the tree and headed out the awaiting T-Car. “Aww, man. Why do we have to take this tree home on top of my car? It will scratch the paint! Why doesn’t Beast Boy walk home with it?” Beast Boy glared at Cyborg. “What? I like that idea.”

With much convincing, Cyborg hoisted the tree on top of his car. The only thing he did was complain all the way back to the Tower. When they got to the door to the lounge, they could a continuous thumping inside.

“So, who do you think cracked and is now beating the crap out of the other one?” joked Beast Boy.

“If anyone, it would be Raven,” replied Cyborg. They walked in, saw Raven reading her book on the couch and instantly thought Cipher was dead. They were relieved to see him stand up from the kitchen floor with another slice of pizza. “It looks like we were wrong. It was Cipher attacking, just Raven wasn’t the victim, it was a slice of… Hey! That’s my pizza!”

“It is?” replied Cipher as he ate the pizza.

“Never mind.” Cyborg walked over to a corner of the lounge and placed the tree in its stand. He turned to Cipher who was still in the kitchen. “Hey pizza thief! I’ll forgive ya if you can defeat me in a game of ‘X Race 3000’.”

“You’re on!” Cyborg turned on the Gamestation and they sat down to a game. Cipher heard a snigger from behind the couch, but paid no attention. On the second lap, Cyborg noticed something.

“Uh, dude? What’s that above your head?” Sure enough, about a foot above head level right between Cipher and Raven was a piece of mistletoe hanging from a fishing rod.

“Huh… oh… Beast Boy!” Cipher hopped over the couch and attacked Beast Boy. None of the other Titans looked over the back of the couch in fear of seeing the carnage. With a final ‘thud’ as Cipher punted Beast Boy across the room, the onslaught was over. Cipher hopped back over the couch and picked up the dropped controller. “Now where were we?”

“Uh, Cipher,” said Cyborg. “I don’t know how to tell you this, but you lost. You never asked for the game to be paused before you attacked BB, so I already finished the race.”

“If its any consolation prize,” Raven said while looking back at the mess called Beast Boy. “Anyone who can give Beast Boy a beating like that gets a point in my book.”

“Woo! Score one for Pherret!”

“Uh, Cipher? Who is this Pherret that you refer to?” inquired Starfire.

“Oh… … I didn’t mean to say that. Ask her! She knows! She came up with it!” replied Cipher as he pointed an accusing finger at Raven. Starfire’s gaze now switched over to Raven who set down her book so that she could explain.

“During the week after we got our Oracle code names, but before I left, I used to call Cipher Pherret call ‘cause I knew he was down because his name meant ‘zero’. He thought he was worthless, so I called him it to try to bring his spirits up and get a laugh out of it.” Beast Boy had by then gotten up and walked over to the couch to listen to the conversation.

“Raven, that was maybe a bit too much information.”

“Dude! So Raven actually cared?!” Beast Boy began. He then began to sing, “[I]Cipher and Raven sitting in a tree, K-I-S-AAAAHHH!” The floor beneath Beast Boy exploded in negative energy and threw him through the ceiling onto the roof. Raven tried to continue reading, but couldn’t concentrate due to everyone staring at her.

“What? He was getting annoying,” replied Raven with a smirk. Starfire looks at the hole in the ceiling.

“Should we help him?” inquired Starfire.

“Nah, he deserved it,” replied Cyborg with a grin. “Hey Star, why don’t ya start decorating the tree?”

“Okay.”

+++++

An hour had passed. Beast Boy had finally made his way down from the roof. He was very cautious of what he said or did, and for good reason. Starfire was just finishing the tree.

“Friends! Now that we have completed the decorating of the tree, me must go shopping,” squealed Starfire.

“Now?” moaned Beast Boy. “I’m still recovering.”

“Yes now! When else would we go to the mall of shopping? It will be too crowded tomorrow and we can’t go two days from now cause then it’s Christmas.”

“Okay, fine. But I claim the front seat. I don’t want to have to deal with those two!” Beast Boy pointed at Cipher and Raven who began to laugh under their breath.

“Lets go y’all before its gets too dark,” said Cyborg. The walked down to the garage and piled into the T-Car, except for Robin who mounted his R-Cycle.

The drive to the mall was eerily quiet. After about 15 minutes of driving, they had arrived and Jump City Mall. Cipher was amazed at the amount of stores that were inside the building as they entered.

“Uhh, Robin?” asked Cipher quietly. “Can I have a word with you?”

“Yeah, sure. What’s up?” replied Robin as the other Titans began to walk away.

“Umm, I have absolutely no idea what to get you guys. As you know, this whole concept of Christmas is still new to me.”

“Just think of what they like to do. Tell me what you’ve noticed about us.”

“Well, uh, Cy treats that car of his as if it were his own son. BB loves tofu. They both like video games. Starfire will fall in love with anything that is soft and cuddly. Raven is sort of dark and enjoys reading and you, you love combat training.”

“See? You just helped yourself out.”

“Huh. Thanks Robin.” Robin walked off to do his shopping. Cipher reached into his back pocket for wallet. ‘Well that’s nice. I didn’t bring any money with me when I came to the US.’ Cipher pulled his communicator, which he modified to act like a phone as well. He decided to call an old friend.

“Hello,” said the voice on the other end. Static badly interfered with the signal.

“Hello, Dad,” replied Cipher.

“Bowen? Is that you?”

“Yes, it’s me.”

“Oh how good it is to hear from you. How have you been?”

“That’s not why I called. I need you to send me all my money, ASAP.”

“Why?”

“Weird non-Aerkustan holiday called Christmas. I have to do some shopping.”

“How soon do you need it?”

“Now would be nice.”

“Okay. Give me coordinates.”

“Why?”

“Do you not remember the teleportation device you were working on before you left? Well, when I came home after you left, Drakar told me about. If you give me your coordinates, I can send the money to you.”

“Slight problem. Aerkustan credits don’t work here in the US. Can you have it all transferred into American Dollars?”

“Give me half an hour.”

“Thank. For, the coordinates, track the source of this signal. Bye.” Cipher closed the communicator and walked over to a bench and sat down. After 25 minutes, he saw Starfire walk by, arms full of packages.

“Cipher, are you not going to do the shopping?”

“No money,” he replied solemnly.

“Oh, I can loan y…” She was cut off as a glowing light appeared in front of Cipher. Out of the spot of light dropped a wad of $20 bills. “Where did that money come from?” Starfire sat down next to Cipher and set her packages down next to her.

“Oh, my dad sent it.”

“How?”

“Before I came to the US, I built a basic teleporter. He sent it to me using that.”

“Oh. Well I must be getting back to shopping. You should get going on shopping too.” The two stood up and walked off in different directions. Cipher walked along until he saw a store with the title ‘Borders.’ He decided to give it a try, because it looked like books inside, although the covers were much more colorful than he was used to.

He walked out, having purchased a vegetarians cookbook for Beast Boy and a book of dark poetry for Raven. The only reason he hadn’t completely lost his mind in the weird store (to him, anyways) was that Robin was able to help him out because he just happened to be in the same store.

He finished up by getting Cyborg a new video game that he would like, he thought, Starfire a giant stuffed pink rabbit and Robin a boxing bag that looked like Slade. He was surprised there even was such a thing and even more surprised that he was able to find it. He met up with the other Titans and they drove home in the same, eerie silence.

Cipher dumped the packages before walking out to the lounge. He sat there and stared at the ceiling, exhausted from the day’s events. He knew he shouldn’t be, but he had taken in some much new information that day. Starfire walked into the lounge humming some sort of tune, carrying a stack of boxes wrapped in colorful paper.

“Cipher, are you not going to wrap the presents you bought?”

“Wrap presents?”

“Yes. Before the exchanging of gifts, they are wrapped so that they are a surprise.”

“Wrapped with what?”

“Wrapping paper of course. I will retrieve you a spare roll when I am done.” Starfire set down her gifts under the tree and ran off towards a storage closet. Five minutes later she returned with a roll of decorative paper. By then the other Titans had already returned.

“Here you go,” said Starfire, handing Cipher the roll of paper.

“Thanks, Star.” Cipher returned to his room and began to wrap. ‘This would look a lot better if a grenade went off and covered this all with paper.’ He walked down to the tree, noticing the arrays of papers wrapped around gifts. ‘Blue and purple. Must be Raven. I bet she was reading and wrapped them telekinetically. That would explain the perfect-ness. Robots and tress, that’s Cy. Various animals, BB. Flowers and bunnies, Starfire most defiantly. That other simple stuff, that leaves Robin.’ He set his stuff down and retired to bed, skipping dinner.

+++++

“Hey guys. Does anyone have a problem if I order all vegetarian pizzas?” asked Beast Boy, his hand over the receiver.

“Hell yeah BB!” retorted Cyborg. “You cannot deny me the all meat experience again!”

“We must get a pizza with mustard and mint frosting,” added Starfire.

“Just get the usual three, Beast Boy,” said Robin, trying to stop a major argument.

“Okay, fine,” whined Beast Boy. He turned back to the phone.

“I can’t believe he almost denied me meat again,” said Cyborg to the group.

“Should I go wake Cipher for dinner?” asked Starfire.

“Nah, he looked pretty tired. Let him sleep.” Suddenly, Raven let out a huge sneeze.

“Oh, great,” complained Raven wiping her nose. “Every year this happens.”

“Getting your yearly cold, Raven?” asked Robin.

“Mmhmm.”

+++++

December 25th
5:00AM

“Cipher? Cipher are you awake?” asked Starfire as she poked her head through the door.

“Now I am,” he replied groggily.

“Good,” Starfire squealed. “Let us go to the room of living and meet up with the rest of the Titans.”

“Five more minutes,” replied Cipher as he dug his head into his pillow and pulled his blanket up to his chin. Starfire wasn’t going to take this as an answer. She grabbed Cipher by his right ankle and dragged him out of his room and towards the lounge, the pillow and blanket still in tow. Cipher was finally jarred awake when his head was dragged down the small flight of stairs near the doorway in the lounge.

“Okay, okay, I’m awake Star.” Cipher noticed Raven sitting in a large chair in the corner. She was in a relative fetal position, a thick blanket wrapped around her. A cup of tea was in her hand and a box of tissues sat on the ground next to the chair.

“You okay, Rae?”

“’Cept for the really bad cold I get every year at this time, I’m feeling okay.”

“That’s nice to hear.” Raven shot Cipher a dirty look. “I meant not including the cold.”

“Glorious!” squealed Starfire. “Shall we start?”

“Sure, Star. Here you go,” replied Robin, handing Starfire a gift.

End Episode 03

Atoragon

01-03-2007, 10:51 AM

Okay, this episode was inspired almost completely be 'Nevermore', but i did get inspiration for a certain battle from... i'll tell you at the end so i don't spoil it for you. hope you like! please reply!

Episode 04: Inner Demons

“It seems that with this new member, the Teen Titans will be much more trouble to destroy than I thought. Without Cipher, they still were able to defeat me, but with him it seems near impossible now,” said Slade scheming up new plans while sitting in his throne in his lair.

“How do you suggest we combat them then, partner?” inquired Sergei.

“I have a plan.” Slade turned to the phone next to his throne and picked it up. “Wintergreen? Yes, I have some plans. Get me…”

[*Evil laughter* I don’t fell like telling you who Slade’s calling, but I will tell you it will be important to the storyline. *More evil laughter*]

+++++

“Beast Boy, if you don’t stop stuffing yourself full of tofu, you’ll end up throwing up,” warned Cyborg.

“Well, I’m hella hungry! We ran out of tofu two days ago, and you refused to go to the store!” replied Beast Boy in between bites.

“You could have just flown to the store or you could have eaten some of the delicious, mouth-watering meat I prepared.”

“I’m not eating meat!”

“Then do the other option! You could have flown to the store and bought some more!”

“I don’t have any money, remember?”

“Oh yeah. You could get a job.”

“After the disaster that happened last time I got a job, no way!”

“Then you should have just starved.”

“Please friends, do not say such hurtful words,” interrupted Starfire.

“I agree. You two are giving me such a headache,” added Raven.

‘Why don’t you just butt out, Raven!” yelled Beast Boy. Raven’s eyes began to glow a fierce blood red.

“Why you! I’ll kill you!” Raven lunged towards Beast Boy and began to strangle him.

“Robin! Try that new disc weapon we’ve been working on!” yelled Cipher. Robin nodded in agreement and pulled a single disc out of his utility belt and threw it at Raven. The disc impacted and exploded with a huge shockwave. Raven fell over on the floor unconscious.

“What kind of weapon is that?” inquired Cyborg.

“It’s a concussive wave explosive. It’s not meant to harm an enemy, merely to render them unconscious.” Cipher walked over and bent down next to Raven. “She’ll be okay. Let’s get her to the infirmary just in case.”

+++++

Raven rolled over in the uncomfortable infirmary bed. She slowly opened her eyes to see Cipher sitting in a chair next to her bed. He glanced over to her, noticing she was awake.

“Morning, Sunshine.”

“Uhh. What happened to me?” Raven sat up and began to rub her head. “And don’t call me Sunshine.”

“Well, your inner demon came loose. You tried to strangle BB, so we had to knock you out and bring you here. That was 24 hours ago.”

“I’ve worked so hard to keep control of my inner demon, and yet it still got loose. How could I loose control?”

“Because you never had complete control.”

“Huh?”

“When you feel like getting up, meet me on the roof.” Cipher got up and walked out of the room. Cyborg proceeded in after he left.

“How ya doin’ Rae?”

“I’m okay.”

“Good to hear.” Cyborg began to leave, but then stopped and looked back over his shoulder. “Breakfast should be ready in about 20 minutes, and oh, he never left your side while you were out, you know?” Cyborg continued out the door and down the hall.

+++++

Raven proceeded up the steps to the roof of Titans Tower after having her fill of herbal tea. She opened the roof access door to see Cipher standing on the edge of the roof looking at city.

“Okay Cipher, why did you call me up here?”

“You said the reason yourself, Raven, back in the infirmary.” Cipher’s gaze was still locked on the city.

“That I can’t control the demon within me.” She paused then added, “How do you know about my internal demon?”

“Well, Raven, you may say I know because I house a sort of ‘demon’ also. All Oracles have a demon as you call them within. You call it a demon, but according to the religious texts, it is known as ‘Archangel Mode’. In this mode, it is when an Oracle is there most powerful, but the demon within you may say has a mind of its own. The only way to control it completely is to loose all control from it and then steal that control back.”

“But I have already lost control of my body and gained it back.”

“No, you haven’t. What you experienced today and in the past was the demon merely peaking its head through the door. You have to loose complete control. Let the demon come in and take over. It will then be a fight in your mind to take that control back. That is what I had to do. I have this demon inside me, but you don’t know about it because I have complete control of it.”

“So if I let the demon take complete control, and then I take control back, I will have complete control over it? But what if me letting complete control go releases Trigon.”

“It won’t release Trigon because I killed him, remember? Although losing control to Trigon and losing control to the inner demon is similar, it is not the same. You have to loose control of the demon.”

“But what I can’t regain control and I destroy the world.”

“That is why the other Titans know about this. If we must, we will fight you to stop annihilation of the world. But it is better that you try to take control now instead of loosing control in the future.” The other Titans joined Cipher and Raven on the roof.

“Is she ready?” Robin asked Cipher.

“Dunno. Why don’t you ask her?”

“Rae, you ready?”

“Yeah.”

“Okay, lets begin,” instructed Cipher. After two hours of poking prodding and annoying jokes by Beast Boy, Raven still hadn’t lost it.

“Dude, Raven, why will it take you to make you lose it?” inquired Beast Boy.

“I have control over my emotions, it is really hard for me.” Cipher rubbed his eyes trying to think. He then realized something.

“Beast Boy, do it,” he said not stopping the rubbing.

“Do what?”

“Remember last night when I was describing this plan? I told you of the last resort. Do it.”

“Why me?”

“’Cause Raven hates you the most out of all of us. It will have the most profound effect.” Cyborg and Beast Boy had really worried faces on their faces. Raven had an utterly confused expression on her face as Beast Boy approached her.

“Uh, Raven? You have to promise me something, that you won’t kill me the instant I do this, okay?” Raven’s eyes narrowed.

“I’ll see what I can do,” she replied coldly. Beast Boy timidly reached out and poked Raven’s bosom. With a single punch, Beast Boy was launch clear off the top of the Tower and into the bay below.

“Umm, I think that worked,” whimpered Cyborg. Raven’s eyes began to glow red again.

“I think you right. The inner demon is starting to take control,” replied Cipher backing away from the seen. Raven began to grow two wings of dark energy. When they reached full size, Raven had a wingspan of over 25 ft. Her cloak began to meld into her body, creating plate armor that covered her arms, legs and torso. Her hands began to reform, taking on the appearance of the talons of a raven. Raven screeched, spread her wings and took flight and headed towards the city.

“Uhh, I don’t think this is going as planned,” commented Cyborg as he watched Raven fly off.

“I think your right. The inner demon must be much more powerful than originally expected. She’s losing the fight for control. If only we could help, if only we could only get in her mind and help.” Cipher pinched the bridge of his nose, deep in thought.

“That’s it! That’s how we can help!”

“What is?”

“Raven has a mirror that is a portal to her mind. If we go in her mind, we can help her in the fight for control.”

“That’s brilliant, Cyborg!” Cipher turned back to the rest of the group. “Robin.” Robin nodded in reply. “You, Star and BB go after Raven. Keep her from turning Jump into a graveyard. Cyborg, your with me. We’re going into Raven’s mind.”

"Ain't I supposed to give the commands?" inquired Robin. "This is my team."

"Right. Sorry Robin. Got a little caught up in the moment."

"It's fine as long as you learn your place. We'll go with your plan." Cyborg and Cipher ran down the stairs and towards the wing on the tower that held the bedrooms.

After the two had left, a green eagle flew back up to the top of the Tower. It landed next to Robin and then turned back into Beast Boy.

“Uhh, dude?” said Beast Boy holding his chest in pain. He was slightly delirious. “When that girl’s angry, she sure can punch.”

“Beast Boy? Are you hurt?” soothed Starfire.

“Starfire, it will have to wait,” ordered Robin. “We have to go stop Raven. Titans, Go!”

+++++

Cipher and Cyborg stand in front of Raven’s door. Cipher is desperately typing commands into the panel, trying to override the door lock.

“Cipher, this has gone on long enough. Stand back!” yelled Cyborg. Cyborg transformed his right arm into his sonic cannon and leveled it at the door. He fired, knocking back the door off its hinges and flying back into Raven’s room. They rushed in and began searching.

“Hey Cy, what’s this magic mirror look like?” inquired Cipher as he dug through the armoire.

“Uhh, I know it has four horn like things coming out the sides. And there’s a gem on it, like the one in Raven’s forehead.”

“I think I’ve found it, Cy.” Cipher carefully pulled a mirror out of the top drawer of the armoire.

“Yeah, that’s it,” replied Cyborg as he walked over to Cipher and looked over his shoulder at the mirror.

“Go help the others. I can handle this from here.” Cyborg nodded then out the room and down to the garage where his T-Car stood waiting to take him into the city. Cipher looked at the mirror, wondering how to activate the portal. He poked it a couple times, still confused. He stared into the face of the mirror, where 4 red eyes appeared and stared back. He dropped the mirror in shock as a raven’s claw of dark energy erupted from the mirror and grabbed Cipher.

The claw dragged him into the face of the mirror where he found himself falling through a red and black vortex. The ride finally ended when Cipher fell out of the vortex and landed on hard ground with a ‘thud’.

Cipher slowly stood up and brushed himself staring at his surroundings. There were islands of rock that floated through space. Dim red stars lined the skies. Moons, creating a solar eclipse effect, obstructed most of the stars.

+++++

Beast Boy changed into a velociraptor and chased after Raven. Raven merely levitated out of his way, but Beast Boy crashed into the wall right behind where Raven was. He fell to the ground, holding his head.

"Dude! That wasn't fair!" whined Beast Boy.

"Beast Boy, stop whining and start fighting," replied Robin as he dodged a slash from one of Raven's talons.

+++++

Cipher suddenly felt a tap on his shoulder. He wheeled around, but got tripped up on his own feet and fell over on his ass. The person that had tapped him began to laugh hysterically.

“What the hell?” asked Cipher as he slowly opened his eyes. He sat up and looked up at the laughing person. It was Raven. Although something seemed weird, this Raven was wearing… pink.

“Oh, sorry,” giggled Pink Raven as she helped Cipher up. “Welcome to Nevermore.”

“What’s Nevermore? I thought the mirror was supposed to send me to Raven’s mind?”

“Nevermore is Raven’s mind.”

“So Rae’s mind is called Nevermore? I thought it would be called something like Raven’s Mind, but I guess I was wrong.”

“Yeah. Come on. I’ll introduce you to the others.” Pink Raven began down a recently created pathway to the central island.

“Others?” Cipher followed Pink Raven, but at a distance. He thought to himself. ‘What the hell does Raven mean by others? And why in hell is she so happy, and wearing… PINK?’

+++++

“Here we are! Oh sisters? Come out, come out where ever you are!” declare Pink Raven as they got to the main island. She began to dance around like a fairy.

“What the hell are you doing here?!” screeched another voice. Suddenly, Cipher noticed a finger pointing at him, a mere inch away from his eyes. His eyes followed down the finger, along the arm until his eyes fixed upon a body. It was Raven. Although it could not have been the same Raven, because this one was clad in dark green robes.

“Umm… Nice to meet you too,” Cipher replied tentatively.

“You didn’t answer my question! What the hell are you doing here?!”

“I came here to help.” Cipher pushed the finger down, away from his face. “It was my idea that Raven let loose her inner demon and then fight it to regain control. I realized that Rae needed help, so I came into her mind to help with the fight against the demon.” The green Raven relaxed a bit.

“Well, it looks like you’re here at a good time. Follow me.” Green Raven led Cipher through the rocky grounds until they came upon a battlefield. “There.” Green pointed at a figure in the center of the battlefield. “That’s your demon.”

“Looks just like Rae right before I entered here. How many of you guys are there?” Cipher had just noticed all of the different Ravens fighting against the demon.

“There’s one of us for every emotion.”

“So ‘bout twenty?”

“I guess. Intelligence can give you the exact number.”

“Which one is Intelligence?”

“The one of us wearing yellow and the goofy glasses. Can’t miss her. By the way, I’m Bravery. And twinkle fairy over there,” Bravery jabbed her thumb over her shoulder at the pink Raven, “is Happy.”

“Nice to meet ya. Lets get this party started.” Cipher charged down the slope directly towards the demon. The demon noticed his advance and with a single uppercut sent him flying off in the other direction. Cipher finally slid to a stop at the feet of a Raven wearing maroon.

“You know, even with your help,” began the maroon Raven in a matter-a-fact tone. “We don’t stand a chance at victory.”

“Huh? Let me guess, Honesty?”

“Yes, you kn…” Honesty was cut off as Intelligence covered up her mouth with her hand.

“Once you get her started, she won’t stop,” Intelligence stated. “I’m In…”

“Intelligence.”

“Yes. Don’t interrupt me. I fear that this demon is far too strong. I fear that the possible outcome that results in our victory is you releasing your inner demon to combat Raven’s.”

“But, I …”

“Don’t worry. You’ll do fine. You said yourself that you have complete control over your demon and we have faith in you.”

+++++

“AAAHHH!”

“Beast Boy! Are you okay?” queried Starfire as she helped Beast Boy to his feet.

“Yeah, but I never knew Raven could be so strong.”

“Raven is in deed quite strong, but we must stop her before she destroys the ci…” Starfire and Beast boy dodge a car hurled in their direction. Raven sneered at them with her devilish grin. “Please friend! Stop the madness! We do not wish to fight you!”

“Oh your friend is no longer in control. You will fight me, and you will die!”

+++++

Cipher locked into a stare with Demon Raven. His body began to glow an eerie blue-white. His flight suit transformed into sapphire armor. His hair doubled in length and turned a bright, shimmering silver color. Two four foot blades of crystal burst forth from his shoulder blades. Horns of crystal like those on Spirnak grew out from Cipher’s forearms.

Everyone stopped fighting and stared at Cipher, including the demon. There were gasps as the forearm horns began to glow, producing katanas of pure, super-dense electricity. In response, Demon Raven produced a sword of dark energy. Cipher raised his right arm and stared at the katana, then charged in for the attack.

There was a flash of light as the two blades clashed. The sound of whirring blades, much like that of lightsabres filled the air. The two fighters were equally matched, until Cipher made a mistake. His blade slipped on parrying one of Demon Raven’s strikes. The blade sliced through the armor like a hot knife through butter and dug deep into his left shoulder. The only thing keeping his arm from being disconnected from his body was his right blade that he had hastily brought up. He winced in pain as he fell to one knee, the strength of Demon Raven’s two arms trumping the strength of his one.

Things looked bleak for Cipher. He vision started to become clouded. He then did something that even he was surprised at. With his left sword, wincing in pain, he brought it up and stabbed Demon Raven in her right hand. With Demon Raven in sudden shock, he was able to force the blade out of his shoulder. He brought his right arm back, and with a lunging uppercut, sliced Demon Raven in two.

The two severed halves on the once mighty demon warrior fell to the ground. Cipher morphed back to his normal self and looked down upon fallen. Blood spilled out of his shoulder, staining his uniform.

“That’s looks pretty bad,” said Intelligence as she ran up. “Let me have a look.” She inspected the wound with care. “I should be able to stop the bleeding, but your going to need several stitches and a brace.” With that, Intelligence’s hand began to glow a light blue and she held them close to Cipher’s injury. The bleeding stopped almost instantly.

And when they thought it was all over, they were beginning to have second thoughts. The two halves of the carcass began to glow with golden light. Arising from the fallen came a new emotion of Raven, this one dressed in jet-black.

“Welcome new sister!” squealed Happy as she ran over to put the new emotion in a sisterly embrace. “What might your name be?”

“I am Control,” the black Raven replied prying her over joyous ‘sister’ off of her.

+++++

“Friend! You are back to normal, yes?” queried Starfire as she held Raven in front of her, hands on her shoulders.

“I guess,” relied Raven halfheartedly. She was extremely light headed and would have collapsed if Starfire had not been there to catch her.

“Come, friend. Let us go home.” Starfire picked up Raven and gently carried her back to the Tower.

+++++

“Ugghh, I’m finally out of there,” said Cipher as he collapsed on the ground after exiting the mirror. “Someone should really make a repellant that works against Raven’s Happy side. Hmm. Maybe the answer is somewhere in Rae’s memories? No. I shouldn’t go back in. I should respect her privacy for the moment.”

Cipher made his way out of Raven’s room and back to the lounge. He decided to sit on one of the stools at the bar and wait for the others. About fifteen minutes later, the other five walked in. Starfire was helping the still lightheaded Raven.

“Dude! Cipher! What’d ya do to your shoulder?!” screamed Beast Boy as he saw the blood. He nearly fainted at the sight.

“Oh that? The demon decided to try to de-limb me.” Raven had regained her composure and was now sitting on a stool next to Cipher.

“By what do you mean?” inquired Raven. “I never saw you when I regained control of my body.”

“That’s because I was on a different battlefront.”

“Huh?”

“Raven, I was inside your mind, fighting along side your emotions against your demon directly. What the other four did was merely keep you from turning Jump into a graveyard while I worked. And I think it was Honesty that said ‘You know, even with your help, we don’t stand a chance at victory.’ So you should be thanking me for releasing my inner demon to combat yours instead of giving me that dirty look about you being angry for me going onto your mind. And that reminds me; you have a new friend in there. Name’s Control.”

“Thank you,” mumbled Raven. She then hugged Cipher tightly.

“Oww! Oww! Oww! Raven! The arm! Dammit! Oww!”

“Sorry. Lets get you to the infirmary.” Raven then reached over and smacked Cipher across the cheek. “But that is for going into my mind. It would be worse, but you helped me greatly instead of going into there for fun like some.” Raven glared at Beast Boy and Cyborg, who played innocence.

End Episode 04

so you'ver probably figured out that the sword battle was inspired by the battle in Star Wars: Episode 2 where Anakin has the two lightsabres and Dooku has his own single one. If not, then i just told you.

Atoragon

01-05-2007, 02:55 PM

Here is episode 05. hope you like it. PLEASE REVIEW! I am experimenting with the 1st person thing, but i will most likely only be for this episode

Episode 05: Of Mind and Matter

As told by Raven…

‘I need to think of a way to get back at Cipher. Although it was nice and all for him to go into my mind and help, but he still went into my mind, a place where no one should go.’ A devilish grin spread across my face. ‘I’ve got it.’ I unfolded my legs, settled to the ground, and walked out of my room towards the smell of bacon and eggs that filled the Tower.

“Hey, Rae,” called Cipher from the kitchen as I entered the lounge. ‘So Cyborg’s actually let Cipher back into the kitchen, eh? Well, he’s not a bad cook, but after his little folly last time where the stove door burst of its hinges from an explosion and Cipher said, “That was supposed to happen” and “It’s an old Aerkustan recipe. Although the cooking method is quite ‘different’, it is really good,” I thought he was permanently banned from the kitchen. So I guess he is allowed back if he cooks ‘Normal’ food.’ I chuckled to myself at this and sat down at the table with a good book I’d been reading.

“So what will it be, Raven? Eggs? Bacon? Sausage? Waffles?” asked Cipher from the kitchen.

“Tofu?” added Beast Boy. I could barely here either of them over the sound of sizzling of meat and tofu.

“Herbal tea,” I replied. I didn’t want to disappoint either one of them, so I decided to disappoint them both. Beast Boy moaned as I denied eating his tofu again. When will he ever realize that I don’t want to eat tofu?

Cipher walked over to the table with my herbal tea and a plate full of food that I wasn’t even sure if Cyborg could eat. He handed me the tea and sat down across the table from me. ‘I don’t think I’ll do my plan today. Cipher is being too nice. No. Today has to be the day for my revenge. After my tea of course.’ By the time I had made a final decision for my revenge, Cipher was already done. ‘How’d he eat all of that? If I ate that much, I’d weigh… I don’t even want to think about that.’

Since they we were all done eating, Cipher and the other boys went off to play Gamestation. Starfire was cheering them on, but I don’t think that she can make up her mind for whom to root for. I went up to my room to carry out my plans for revenge.

I heard a soft knock at my door as I searched my room. ‘Oh great. It must be Beast Boy trying to annoy me because he got his ass handed to him in video games, again.’ To my surprise, it was Starfire at my door.

“Friend, may I inquire? Are you weeping? Do you need a hug? Maybe we need to go to the mall of shopping.”

“Starfire, I’m fine. I’m just making my plans for revenge.” I just then realized that I said too much. I grabbed Starfire and dragged her into my room, slamming my door, before she could answer.

“Raven, what is this ‘revenge’ that you speak of?”

“Revenge is getting back at somebody.”

“Who are you going to do the revenging on?”

“Remember when Cipher went into my mind?”

“Yes.”

“Well that is what I’m getting revenge for. I’m going to go into his mind and maybe screw some stuff up. Since you know too much, you’re coming with me.”

“Must I?”

“Yes. Come on.” I dragged Starfire over to my armoire where my mirror lay.

“I thought this mirror was only a portal into your mind?”

“It is, but since Cipher has used it, he has left his aura signature on it. That aura signature will lead us to his mind. It will take a lot of power to do this though. Do you remember the words I say to concentrate?”

“Yes.”

“Then hover and cross your legs. Hold onto that side of the mirror. Chant along with me and we should have enough power to do this.”

“Azarath… Metrion… Zinthos…” we chanted in synch. This was a lot easier than I thought. Starfire was giving off more power than I expected and I guess Cipher’s mind was wandering, so it was easy to snatch out of the sky.

“Gotcha,” I commented as we got the mirror calibrated to Cipher’s aura signature.

“So… this will act as a portal to Cipher’s mind instead of yours?”

“I think. I will if I have done this correctly. Starfire, now look into the face of the mirror. A claw…” A claw of energy reached out a grabbed us and dragged us into the mirror. I don’t think Starfire heard my warning, or at least the beginning of it, because she was screaming her head off.

We were falling through a vortex similar to that that enters my mind, except this one was white and blue instead of the red and black of my mind. My thoughts were interrupted as we crashed onto a hard porcelain floor. We were in a large room with a high arcing ceiling.

“Raven, does this not look like the room we were in when we went to Azarath?” Starfire asked me.

“It looks similar, but it’s not the same room. I think this is a copy of the temple in Tokorei.” Raven looked around the room, but noticed no doors out of this central area. Suddenly, a section of wall faded away and a hallway was now visible. “Come on, Star. There’s our door.”

We walked towards the door and into the hallway behind it. It reminded me of an office building. The hallway was pretty blank with several doors along both sides. Plaques were mounted on each door, signifying what it was. We walked up to a door marked ‘MEMORIES’.

“Perfect,” I said with a devilish grin. “In here we can find some embarrassing baby pictures or something.”

“Oh! Wouldn’t that be sooooo cute?” squealed Starfire.

“Uhh, sure, cute… and embarrassing.” We walked into the room and were surrounded by floating hologram panels. We walked up to one that sparked our interest.

+++++

Tokorei, Aerkusto
July 17, 2003
8:30 AM

As told by Cipher…

I had just finished my usual breakfast of pretty much everything in the fridge. The temple was eerily quiet this morning. I was about to retire to my room when Ivanovich called me into the foyer. When I got there, he was talking to someone that appeared to be part of the military.

“What can I do for you?” I asked, trying my hardest to be friendly. I am still relearning the people skills I had forgotten after Raven left. I locked myself in my room for what seemed like a year straight and didn’t talk to anyone.

“Ah, Cipher. This is LTC Erich Rainier of the Aerkustan National Special-Weapons Commission. The reason I called you here is because the temple is in need of funds and the government refuses to pay any more.”

“And what does this have to do with LTC Rainier?”

“The commission is willing to give the temple money under one condition,” replied Erich in his steely tone.

“One condition, eh? What kind of condition?”

“The use of your services. It has come to the knowledge of the commission that, even though you are a mere child, you possess knowledge of technology, in particular, weaponry, that surpasses our own entire group of scientists.”

“So let me guess, your commission will give the temple heaping mounds of money if I come and design some bad ass weapons for y’all?”

“In essence, yes.”

“If it means getting funds for the temple, then I’ll do it.” I proceeded back to my room and packed what little belongings I had into a backpack and proceeded out the door with Rainier. Little did I know that I would never return for three years.

The ride to the base on the edge of town took 20 minute. When we arrived, I was immediately locked into a room that would become my quarters. The room was bleak. The gray walls and extraordinarily small window cause me to get minor depression.

I was ordered to design all the offensive weaponry for a secret project codename, “Project Greipnir,” ‘Greipnir’ meaning ‘Ghost of Death’ in English. The orders were specifically to build warheads for a new cruise missile that the Greipnir would hold along with a cannon that would be meant to destroy entire fleets in a single shot. The catch was that all weaponry had to abide to the Aerkusto-Jirashai Peace Treaty that banned the development of nuclear weapons between the two countries.

I worked for two-and-a-half years on the weaponry. I had no idea what evils I would be helping create until the Greipnir was unveiled January 21, 2006. Little known to the other scientists, I had been working secretly working on my own project, “Moguera.” I’ll go into more details later. I was finally released from the compound on April 2, 2006, the day the dark demon, Trigon, set his plans into motion for conquering the universe. At that time, being sixteen years and eight days old, I returned to the temple.

+++++

As told by Raven…

Both Starfire and I were shocked at what Cipher had helped to create. ‘A weapon to rule the world,’ as it was referred to by Rainier after its completion. I wanted so much to kill Rainier for what he had done and what he had forced Cipher to do, but I had to restrain myself. It was not the answer to the problem.

“Come on, Star. Lets get out of here. We’ve seen enough,” I said as I led Starfire out of the room. We were about to pass through the door marked ‘EXIT’, but then Starfire noticed a door she was interested in

“The Grand Master? Raven, what do you believe is behind this door?”

“I don’t know, Starfire, Lets check it out.”

+++++

As told by Cipher…

“Whoa. That felt weird,” I said to myself, holding my head. “Hey, Cy? You mind running a cortex scan on me? Something doesn’t feel right.”

“Sure, man. The equipment’s down in the infirmary.” We passed out of the lounge and after five minutes of passing through the maze of hallways, we arrived at the infirmary. Cyborg placed a band with sensors on it on my head and pressed a few commands into the computer. The computer hummed as it computed, then chimed, signifying it was done.

“What’s up Cy?”

“You may want to see this.” I hopped off the stool I was sitting on a walked over to the computer that Cyborg was standing in front of. “These are the results of your original scan when you first joined. There are two different wavelengths, signifying two beings in your mind, you and Spirnak.” Cyborg brought up another window. “This is today’s scan. There are four different wavelengths here.”

“So there are four beings in my mind? Can you figure out who the other two are?”

“Give me a sec.” Cyborg typed a few more commands into the computer. “It looks like Raven and Starfire are in there.”

“Do you have an idea how they got in there?”

“Theoretically, there is no technological way, so it must be magic.”

“Raven probably reformatted that magic mirror of hers to enter my mind instead of hers.”

“That’s the only logical explanation, but of course, magic isn’t necessarily logical.”

“They have no idea what’s in there. Lets go!” Cyborg and Cipher ran out of the infirmary and towards Raven’s room. They rushed in an noticed the mirror on the ground.

+++++

Meanwhile…
As told by Raven…

We opened the door marked ‘THE GRAND MASTER’ and slowly proceeded inside. The room was extremely dimly lit. From what little light there was, I could make out a massive throne and a figure sitting in it. The figure could have easily been 400 feet tall. It spoke out in a very deep tone.

“Who dares enter my domain?” it growled.

“We are Starfire and Raven,” whimpered Starfire hiding under my cloak.

“Hmm. Those names do sound familiar. I believe that Cipher has spoken of you two.”

“Who are you?” I inquired.

“Why I am the granter of all of Cipher’s powers!”

“Spirnak?”

“Yes, it is I Spirnak. Now, why do you come here to the deep recesses of Cipher’s mind?”

“Well, Cipher went into my mind to help me fight the demon within. But, I don’t want anyone to go into my mind. It’s a place no one should go. So, in an act of revenge, we ventured into Cipher’s mind to try to learn some of his secrets and maybe get an embarrassing baby picture or two to get even.”

“So Cipher entered your mind in order to help you, even though you did not want him to enter. And yet you enter his mind for a reason as pitiful as revenge. Cipher speaks high of you, but I may as well erase you from existence for your impudence.”

“Spirnak. No,” stated a voice from behind us. I looked over my shoulder to see Cipher approachingfollowed closely by Cyborg. “Times have changed. We don’t just erase people for the way they act. Besides, I don’t need a dead carcass stinking up the inside of my mind.”

“Very well. Raven, Starfire, I shall spare your lives.”

“Tha- Thank you,” whimpered Starfire. She finally emerged from beneath my cloak and stared up at Spirnak.

“Lets get out of here before he changes his mind,” warned Cyborg. We nodded in agreement and left Cipher’s mind.

+++++

As told by Beast Boy…

“Dude, Robin, where did the others go,” I asked not looking away from the videogames.

“The girls disappeared right after breakfast, and Cipher and Cyborg left about an hour ago.” The four missing Titans enter the lounge talking among themselves. “And then they all return together.” Robin changed his attention to the others. “Where’d you guys go?”

“Oh just going into Cipher’s mind to get revenge for him going into my mind,” replied Raven in a faux sarcastic tone with exaggerated arm motions.

As told by Cipher…

When Raven was done with her sarcastic answer, she whispered into my ear, “I need to speak to you.” I nodded in compliance and followed her over to the dining table. “Cipher, I have a few questions to ask you about your memories.”

“Okay, but before I answer, I want to make it clear that I’ve done a lot of stuff in my life that I’m not exactly proud of, so I may not give one-hundred percent complete answers.”

“I wouldn’t expect complete answers.” Raven sat down and motioned for me to sit next to her. “Could you explain to me ‘Project Greipnir’ and ‘Moguera’?”

“‘Project Greipnir’ was an Aerkustan attempt to build a super-weapon, well it wasn’t really an attempt since it’s now operational, but it was meant as an airborne fortress meant to take out incoming enemy fleets and air armadas. The sole purpose for building it, since Aerkusto is a relatively small country with only a small amount of room for bases, was to win battles by superior technology instead of superior numbers. Now, ‘Moguera’ was something designed to act like a friend slash servant or a one-man army.”

“One-man army?”

“Yeah. Moguera, even though he is only ‘bout six and a half feet tall, can take on entire tank columns and come out victorious without a scratch. I’ve actually still has his plans and have begun building him. Think of what he could do in aid of the Titans?”

“That kind of firepower would really be helpful.”

“Yeah. Come on, I’ll take ya to meet him.” I got up and looked down at Raven.

“Meet him?”

“Yeah. I mean he isn’t in his body yet, but his mind is awake and aware.” Raven nodded and got up. We walked out of the lounge and up to my room. On my desk was a sphere of computer components. “That,” I said pointing at the sphere, “is Moguera, well, at least his brain.”

“Hello, Raven,” said a computerized voice from a speaker on the desk.

“How’d he know my name?” Raven asked me.

“This, Raven, is a DNA computer. It uses the DNA bases instead of 0’s and 1’s. Since the code is more complex, it allows for more complex processes, such as learning. That’s how he learned your name, because I told him your name and he related it to the picture from seven years ago I gave him.”

“Yes,” agreed Moguera. “I was able to put your face to a name using the picture. Would you like to play a game of chess?”

“You play chess?” inquired Raven. “But you're just a computer.”

“On the contrary, Raven. My brain may be a computer, but it is a brain non-the less. My mind is much like Cyborg’s. It may have chips, but I still feel emotions, such as boredom. So what do you say about that game?”

“Okay.” Raven sat down next to the computer and began to play a game of chess.

End Episode 05

RavensDragon

01-09-2007, 04:25 PM

Hey!
I love the storys!
When will the next one come out?:raven: :raven2: :lol:

Atoragon

01-09-2007, 07:57 PM

OMG! Someone actually replied! I'll be frank, I was planning on abandoning this project due to a total lack of responnses. To answer your question, i have a bit of some writers block, but i do hope to have episode 06 out by, umm, few days? Maybe? Dunno. Kinda hard to tell. I have to actually write it first.

Oh look I'm...

01-10-2007, 03:06 PM

Well, don't worry about lack of responses, because now I'm here!!!1!!:anime:

Seriously now, your writing is nice for the Teen Titans genre, and its cool that you added a character (although its pretty much been done before), and you got many of the TT concepts down.:D

Referring to Cipher, don't get too arrogant with a pseudo-original character. There are people on this forum who will scream Mary Sue at the first hint of it, you know. I personally think that you adapting him from the Ace Combat Zero (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ace_Combat_Zero:_The_Belkan_War) line is PRETTY COOL!! I'm totally open to new ideas, and a crossover (or something resembling a crossover) is a nice reprieve(sp) from the typical fanfiction.;) :p

Dude, don't stop writing!

RavensDragon

01-10-2007, 04:21 PM

Hey, what is the title going to be?
Where did you get that avatar, tell me! I love it! I want it!
What is the website?:raven: :raven2:

Heres a comic!
:zoidberg: :zoidberg: :zoidberg: :zoidberg: :zoidberg: :zoidberg: :zoidberg: :zoidberg: :zoidberg: :zoidberg: :zoidberg: :zoidberg: :zoidberg: :zoidberg: :zoidberg: :zoidberg: :zoidberg: :zoidberg:
:dexter: Dexter: "Deedee, get these, your friends out of my laboritory!"
:deedee: Deedee: "There not mine friends Dexter!"
:dexter: Dexter: "Then where did they come from?"
:deedee: Deedee: "I don't know?"
:shame: Shame: "You are two poor little kids!"
:tweety: Tweety: "Did you guys see my friend, a octopus face?"
:gir: Gir: "I'm a doggy, a doggy, yah, yah!"
:zim: Zim: "Bad doggy, bad doggy, go home now!"
:andy: Andy: "Cute little doggy!"
:dexter: Dexter: "Get out of my laboritory everyone!"
(everyone exits, includind Deedee!)
:raven: Raven: "You got guts, little one!"
:dexter: Dexter: "H...e...l...l...o."
:raven: Raven: "see you kid, soon, real soon!"

RavensDragon

01-10-2007, 04:31 PM

How do you make a new thread, like one of yours called the "Season 1 X":raven: :raven2:

Atoragon

01-10-2007, 07:01 PM

"RavensDragon", look at the top of the page, there's a "new thread" button. click it to open a new thread

"Oh Look I'm", i know that the whole ACZ thing is wicked awesome, but my cipher is not the same one, just happens to have the same name. just think bout it this way, i play WAY too much ACZ for my own good and stuff from it get pretty much burned into my mind. that goes for a lot of the stuff in this story and the prequel "the stage of apocalypse."

Oh look I'm...

01-11-2007, 10:15 AM

"Oh Look I'm", i know that the whole ACZ thing is wicked awesome, but my cipher is not the same one, just happens to have the same name. just think bout it this way, i play WAY too much ACZ for my own good and stuff from it get pretty much burned into my mind. that goes for a lot of the stuff in this story and the prequel "the stage of apocalypse."First, you can call me Jack, if you don't like dealing with the "OOhh looooKkol I'"m.."

Second, I agree when you say that you "should really think of another name for this bugger." Cipher's not the most original name around, ACZ beat you to it. I personally think that, if it is the character from ACZ (despite your denials), then it's way cool that you adapted it for the TT.

Third, if you want tons of reviews, you're here at the wrong time. There was a time at the WFWC where there were over fifty people all reading each other's stories. It was da bomb. Considering your situation, I suggest getting the next best thing: quality reviews. Matt A is, since everybody who could oppose him bailed or was banned, the best writer on the TZ forums. If you get him to read your stuff and if he likes it, he might advertise it in his signature. However, don't beg him or anything: Matt's a way busy guy. Read his "The Bad Seeds" (just for fun, at least) and advertise your fic there with a link. Keyword: link.

EDIT: When I mean "there", I mean in your signature.

If you're curious about any other quality writers/reviewers, Faethie (Vortexgirl) is a really good one: if she likes a fic, she's totally loyal to it. And ArtificialIdiot is okay too. I don't know much about him, though.

Fourth, I suggest taking a break from Cipher and writing a fanfic that doesn't display an original/pseudo-original character. If you want to know what one looks like (that's REALLY well done), click here (http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?t=117809) for "Teen Titans: Vanishing Act." The writer of this fanfic has been long gone for ages, so he probably won't see your reply. Read it for your enjoyment only.:cool:

If you need any help in writing a Teen Titans fic that features only the Teen Titans, feel free to consult me or whatever. I look forward to seeing or hearing about your ideas.

Atoragon

01-11-2007, 06:58 PM

jack it is. i have never been looking for hordes of reviews, just a few. i was surprised by the amount i got. i think i going to ignore your fourth advice, though. what's floating through my mind right now is ideas for season 1 and the next parts to the series. nothing else is really coming up. and i've alredy read "vanishing act", and i agree, it is very good. also, Cipher is my f****** namesake! the only reason im a member is so that i could write these stories with him. maybe when im done with the series im writing i'll do some stuff without him.

RavensDragon

01-12-2007, 02:41 PM

I do cuss a little, but not 24 hours. But I do cuss if I get angry!:raven: (See I might be related to Raven after all!)

Atoragon

01-12-2007, 06:58 PM

I do cuss a little, but not 24 hours. But I do cuss if I get angry!:raven: (See I might be related to Raven after all!)

i'm that way also. that little comment by jack sort of hit a nerve for me, though. this "series" i guess is what i/m here to write. to clear up some questions mentioned on stage of apocalypse by jack, here is the AI intro that i wrote for the series.

Here's the premise. This takes place about one month after the end of "Trouble in Tokyo" . After defeating Captain Daizo, its been quiet, too quiet. This is the first of a series of, I think, four stories. This one, the first, and the last will be in a novel format, while the stories in between, will be in a season format.

In this, I have introduced an OC, Cipher. He is an Oracle of a God of a polytheistic religion I thought up one night when I was supposed to be doing my homework. This series of stories primarily focuses on Cipher, Raven and their past, so if you don't like Raven or OC's, you probably won't like this story.

Also, I have changed Raven's overall history a bit. I have contradicted common theories that Raven's birthday is February 5, being the original air date of "Birthmark". In this, it is April 2, so that it works a little better with the story. It is believed that Raven arrived on Earth in Gotham City or Jump City. I have made it that she arrives in Tokorei, Aerkusto. Aerkusto is a fictional country that I thought up. Finally, in this story, Raven comes to Earth when she is about seven, when in the show and other fanfics, it is implied that she comes later.

Arrakhat

01-12-2007, 11:41 PM

All right, I need to go take a look at Stage of Apocalypse, but in the meantime, I'll give a few quick observations on the first two chapters (sorry I can't read the whole thing at once, I just took painkillers and I'm getting sleepy).

Anyway, one problem I'm finding is the titans acting out of character, whne they do anything at all. It seems so far that the Titans are merely here to help showcase Cipher, which demeans them. Not what I look for in a Teen Titans fanfic, but I'll keep reading.I'll save my questions as to why Azarath is alive and kicking for after I read your other fic, in case it's they're answered.

Here's my bug question: What's up with Cipher? He shows up, acts like a royal prick to Beast Boy, has Raven liking him, and practically becomes the team leader. He needs flaws and weaknesses. A perfect character is easily labeled a Mary Sue, and I think this character can avoid that fate. Thing is, you need to make him less godly. His only weaknesses are his tragic past (a characteristic of a Mary Sue), his love for Raven (what new character doesn't?), and being nervous around tons of girls (who all seem to love him). That great of a guy can be overbearing in a fic.

One last suggestion: in whatever you write, try adding more detail for people and setting. Right now the story is mostly dialogue, which isn't necessarily bad, but is fairly bare bones.

I'll try to read the rest after I get to Stage of Apocalypse.

Atoragon

01-12-2007, 11:58 PM

Thanx for the review Arrakhat. I will add more details into descriptions. This story makes pretty much no sense without reading Stage of Apocalypse. It explains all. Robin is still the team leader. This story is pretty much based around Cipher, Raven and their tragic past. The first two parts were as you said. Cipher has some rather major weaknesses, I just have yet to exploit them yet. The point is for him to have a semi-god like appearance because of the background (being an Oracle and all), but as you suggested, I will tone him down.

RavensDragon

01-13-2007, 01:57 PM

i'm that way also. that little comment by jack sort of hit a nerve for me, though. this "series" i guess is what i/m here to write. to clear up some questions mentioned on stage of apocalypse by jack, here is the AI intro that i wrote for the series.

Yah I know! I cant stop cussing! My mom yells at me, but I just say another cuss word!:raven:

RavensDragon

01-13-2007, 01:59 PM

Atoragon

01-17-2007, 01:35 AM

Here is Episode 06. I was really trying to highlight the other Titans, especially Cyborg because he plays a large part in this episode. This isn't the entire thing, but I'm behind schedule as it is. The beginning is a little jumpy just to let you know.

Episode 06: Unveilings

“Thank you all for coming,” said Slade to the crowd of people trying to calm them down. “I have brought you all here because we have a common enemy. The Teen Titans. We alone have been unable to defeat them, but I believe that together, we can destroy them once and for all.”

There was a murmur of consensus among the crowd.

“Now that we agree on our subject,” continued Slade, “we should think of a name for our new ‘partnership’. Any suggestions?”

“How about the ‘Brotherhood of Evil’?” asked a woman with a thick French accent in the back of the room.

“Now why would you say that, Madame Rouge?”

“Most of the people here was part of the ‘Brotherhood of Evil’.”

“True. But who got you out of prison? Who brought you here? And who can have you put right back into prison?”

“You.”

“Exactly. Any group I form will not have the same name as a group that failed. Any other suggestions?”

“Ooh! Ooh! Ooh!” yelled Billy Numerous, waiving his hand vigorously. “How ‘bout Justi… umm… Justi… uhh… Justi-Break!”

“Hmm. Catchy. Anyone have a problem with that name?”

No one spoke up, either agreeing with Numerous or afraid of making Slade angry in any way. His spurts of anger had grown legendary among the villains.

“Very well. Justi-Break it is.”

+++++

“Almost there… one last connection… come on, come on, come on… why does it have to be so damn far into the interior? … Got it!” Cipher slammed the access panel closed and walked over to the computer at the worktable. He typed some commands into the computer and then watched as Moguera’s body sprung to life.

“How do you feel, Moguera?” inquired Cipher of his newly finished project.

“It feels good to finally have a body, although, I have one question. Why Spirnak?” replied Moguera. His voice no longer had the computerized sound, but still held some of the steely rasp.

“Hmm?”

“Why does my body look like Spirnak?”

“Do you have a problem with it?”

“No. I love it. It’s just I want to know why you chose it.”

“As you know, now that the other Gods are dead, theoretically, Spirnak is the most feared being in the galaxy, or at least Aerkusto. I wanted you to look like the most feared being so that you would strike the same fear in people as Spirnak does.”

“I see. I am feeling the emotion you humans call ‘boredom’. Perhaps you could introduce me to the rest of the Titans?”

“Sure. Why not? You’ve only met Raven so far.”

+++++

“Tell me, Ralivar, why did you have your son act in your spot?”

“It is his daughter that is my Oracle. Besides, I find it beneath me to cause minor havoc among these simple humans. I will take my position when I am ready to cause matters of destruction on a much greater scale. Is that sufficient, Razerikrisho?”

“In answers, yes. In actions, no. Go down and make yourself apparent to your Oracle. Tell her the truth about you and your son. I will recreate the Gods that your son so fool heartedly destroyed. When you are done, you may return here and be forgiven for your actions.”

“Understood, Razerikrisho.”

+++++

“I know you wanna pass me! You wanna pass me, but you can’t pass me! You passed me! Get back here you damn grass stain!” Cyborg fumed as Beast Boy did his victory dance, waving his controller in the air.

“In your face chrome-dome! Accept it! You lost!” retorted the victorious changeling.

“No way, man! You cheated! There’s no other way you could’ve won!”

Cyborg and Beast Boy were standing up, staring each other down. Beast Boy had to stand on his tiptoes to even get close to Cyborg’s height. Their eyes were less than a foot away from each other.

“Dude! Just accept that you lost! You can never be the best at something forever!”

“Exactly! When I die I won’t be the best anymore! But up until then, I’ll always be the best at this video game!”

“Cyborg! Please do not use such hurtful words!” injected Starfire. “Please do not talk about how you will die! It brings much sadness!” Cyborg visually calmed. He took a step back and slouched back down onto the couch.

“Sorry, Star,” sighed Cyborg. “You know how it goes. I just got a little caught up in the moment. I’ll keep that kind of talk to myself.”

“Thank you, friend Cyborg.” Cyborg was going to reply but was cut off when the door to lounge whooshed open and Cipher stepped inside. Close on his heals was a dinosaur-appearing robot that he had no idea where it came from. Neither did Robin.

“Titans, GO!” ordered Robin. The Titans, minus Raven and Cipher who decided to stand back and watch the fun, lunged at the new arrival. Robin threw three explosive discs, but they appeared to have no effect. Cyborg fired his sonic cannon and Starfire hurled a barrage of starbolts, but none even left a scratch. Before they knew it, the four attacking Titans were deep in his grasp. Robin and Cyborg held aloft in his arms, Starfire intertwined with his tail and Beast Boy as a turtle in the death grip that was the robot’s mouth.

“Moguera… put ‘em down,” Cipher told the robot in a slightly playful tone.

“Yeah,” added Raven. “You don’t know where Beast Boy’s been.” With that, Moguera let the four Titans down.

“Sorry Master, but I was forced to defend myself,” replied Moguera looking as pleadingly as a robot could look.

“Its okay.”

“Moguera? Who do you work for?! Why are you here?!” demanded Robin.

“Yes, Moguera. I work for my master and I am here because I was told to come here.”

“I think Robin completely missed his first answer, don’t ya think?” Cyborg asked Beast Boy.

“Yeah, dude.”

“Who is your master?!” Robin continued.

“My master is… Cipher.” Robin wheeled around and stared at Cipher.

“You built this thing! What?! Was it meant to destroy us?! Why did you build him?!”

“Okay first, before I answer,” began Cipher, “you have got to take a chill pill.” Robin relaxed slightly, but was ready at a moment to attack Cipher and Moguera. Cipher continued. “Moguera over there was merely built as a project of mine. He will have a true purpose when he finds it. Also, I don’t think it would hurt to have another member on the team. Slade and Sergei are up to something big. I know for a fact that Sergei doesn’t just take a vacation from his job.”

“Neither does Slade,” added Robin stroking his chin in deep thought. With a good answer he had calmed down a good deal. “Before we let Moguera on the team, I want to see what he can do.”

“Of course.” Cipher changed his attention to Moguera. “So whaddya say buddy? You up to it?”

“Yes master.”

“What have I said about calling me master?”

“Don’t. Sorry Cipher.”

“As long as you understand.” Cipher turned back to Robin. “Sounds like he’s ready.”

“How ‘bout a one-on-one robot fight?” inquired Cyborg. “If he can last five minutes against me, that’s good enough for me to let him join the team.”

“Are you sure you want to do this?” asked Robin. “I was going to simply suggest the obstacle course.”

“Of course, man.”

“I agree with Cyborg,” added Moguera. “Obstacle courses do not test your abilities in battle. They may train you to work harder and think faster, but nothing trains you for real battle except the real thing.”

“Dudes!” exclaimed Beast Boy. “This is going to so awesome! You need to let me sell tickets for this! We need to rent out the football stadium for this! The robot fight of the century!”

Everyone gave Beast Boy an aggravated glance, but Raven said, “I’ll go with him… got to keep an eye on him, you know?”

“As long as Raven’s keeping BB out of trouble, I don’t have a problem with this,” stated Robin. “I’ll contact the stadium as see if they’ll lend it to us for two days from now. Shouldn’t cost us any money seeing how the manager of the stadium owes me few… favors.”

+++++

Tara Markov and her two best friends, Marie and Joan, sat in Tara’s room in a study group, completing the math homework that was due the next day. Tara was sat down at her desk in the corner while her two friends were perched on her bed.

“Hey, Marie. Do you have the answer to number thirty-seven?” asked Tara.

“Yeah,” she replied. “It’s sixty-four point nine.”

“Thanks.” Terra quickly scribbled the answer down on her paper. She brushed a strand of her long, blonde hair out of her face, lost in thought. She had a weird feeling, but she couldn’t pinpoint it. A part of her was telling her to ‘get alone’. Getting annoyed at the feeling, she excused herself and walked down the hallway until she got to the door to the balcony. She stepped out onto the balcony and looked out onto the bay, Titans Tower silhouetted against the sunset.

“It seems my little mind trick worked,” spoke a low growl from Terra’s mouth, but it wasn’t Terra.

“What the… Who are you?! What are you doing in my head?!” demanded Terra. She hit the railing of the balcony with her fist, but regretted it from the sharp pain that now lanced throughout her lower arm.

“Dear child, my name is Ta’rikunen, Aerkustan God of the Earth.”

“You never answered my second question! What are you doing in my head?!”

“Terra, you are my Oracle, my eyes, ears and mouth to the people of your realm.”

“God dammit! What the hell is going on?! This must be some f***** up little mind trick done by one of those crazy psychopaths!” Terra grasped her head and clenched her eyes, trying to get the presence out or her head.

“You shall not speak of the impostor that the infidels have created! Most definitely not in my presence!” Ta’rikunen spat. There was nothing he hated more than the Catholic God, Allah, Buddha or the Hindu gods. If he had his way, along with Ralivar, he would annihilate all the non-believers and their fake gods, tearing them limb from limb, reducing them to dust.

“Why should I believe you?”

“Dear child, you lost all your memories when you were frozen in stone. I can grant you all those memories back.”

“So Beast Boy was telling the truth?” Terra stared out at Titans Tower, now a shadow in the dusk sky.

“Did he look like someone who would walk up to a random person, take them out for pizza, take you to their home and then lie to your face about your past and about how much he cared about you?”

“Well… no,” replied Terra weakly.

“Then, yes, your acquaintance Beast Boy was telling the truth. So, do you want your old memories back?”

“Are they bad?”

“Well, yes and no,” Ta’rikunen sighed. “Most of your memories depict you being happy, but some… some show you breaking all rules. Turning on those who trusted you, attempting to kill them. You have done some pretty bad things in your life, but you have also done many great things in your life. So, it is up to you on whether you think they are good or bad.”

“I’ll take them. I want my memories back.”

“Very well.” Terra clutched her head as a surge of memories poured into her head.

“My parents… running away from home… my life in Aerkusto… joining the Titans… betraying them… I remember it all. How do I know if these are my memories?” Terra released her head and looked at the now appearing stars.

“That is for you to decide. Now I must be off now. Oh, and you friend is wrong. The answer to number thirty-seven is sixty-five point two.”

+++++

“Welcome Ladies and Gentlemen!” announced Beast Boy through the stadium loudspeakers, “to the mechanized melee of the century!” The crowds’ cheering was deafening. One hundred thousand spectators had crammed themselves into Jump City Municipal Stadium.

“Today we have a battle that only be expressed in Titanic proportions!” continued Beast Boy. “On the south end of the stadium, we have Cyborg of our one and only Teen Titans!” Cyborg pumped his right fist in the air. The cheers must have increased by at least 20 decibels because even Beast Boy and Starfire in the announcer’s box had to cover their ears.

“And on the north end,” added Starfire, “we have our challenger! Moguera!” Moguera bashed his fists together twice and screeched what could only been described as a battle cry at the heavens. The cheers increased but nowhere near as much as Cyborg’s.

“So with the introductions complete, let the battle begin!” rallied Beast Boy. There was a final crescendo of cheering before the stadium fell comparatively silent. The two combatants stared at each other for what seemed like an eternity before Moguera finally spoke up.

“What’s the matter Cyborg?” he taunted. “I haven’t even moved and you already looked like your paralyzed in fear from my presence. Does my image invoke that much fear in you?”

“No,” replied Cyborg slowly. Despite the image he was trying to purvey, he was frozen with fear. He knew the destructive power Moguera could unleash. Cipher had not been necessarily quiet about the weaponry that his opponent possessed. Just the names raised fear in his heart. ‘Maser Cannon’, ‘Plasma Sword’, ‘Absolute Zero Cannon’.Cyborg didn’t even want to guess at what the Absolute Zero Cannon could do, but it definitely implied an icy death.

“If you have no fear, then why have you not attacked? I have been waiting for you to make the first move.” If Moguera could show emotions, there would have most definitely been a sneer plastered across the front of his metal face.

“Don’t mind if I do!” retorted Cyborg. Cyborg reformed his right arm into his sonic cannon and leveled it at Moguera. The barrel pulsed with blue light before firing. The sonic beam streaked towards its target.

In response, Moguera opened his ‘mouth’, revealing the Maser Cannon. Twin cylindrical electrodes inside his mouth sparked with electrical energy. An electrical beam lanced forth from the electrodes, intercepting the sonic beam with a large explosion.

“I’m impressed with the power of your sonic cannon,” taunted Moguera. “Though it still could be a lot stronger.”

“You want to see more power?!”

“Bring it.”

Cyborg changed his left arm into a sonic cannon as well and leveled it at Moguera. Both cannons pulsed even brighter before firing. Moguera hurled himself to the left and rolled to a crouch, letting the twin beams pass where he was just standing a moment before.

“That’s more like it,” said Moguera as he stood up and stared down Cyborg.

“You know? I really wish Cipher didn’t give you such an ego.”

“Hmm. If it weren’t for my confidence in victory, I would be worthless. When I am standing along side you in battle, you’ll want a partner you can count on. Consider it a blessing when this is all over.” Moguera began to pace towards Cyborg. Cyborg followed suit. When they were ten yards apart from each other, they stopped.

“Sooo, you’ve given up at ranged attacks?” taunted Cyborg.

“Never,” replied Moguera as two slits opened on his wrists. An emitter slowly extended from each of the slits and flared to life. Bursting forth from the emitters was a pair of light blue, crackling swords of pure plasma. “Quite beautiful, aren’t they?” asked Moguera as he looked over the blades. “Although I still prefer the Absolute Zero Cannon, but I promised I wouldn’t use it. Can’t have a Cyborg-sicle.”

“That’s nice to know.”

“But I still can open you up like a can of sardines.”

“Uh oh.” Four panels on Moguera’s back opened, revealing rocket engine nozzles. The nozzles dilated as the rockets roared to life, then returning to normal.

“So, what do you want to loose first?”
________________________________________________________________

I know this is really late and I'm sorry I couldn't finish this episode in one post. I hope to have the rest of the duel up in bout two days, but knowing how my mind has had the world's largest case or writer's block recenty, i wouldn't count on it

Matt A

01-17-2007, 10:59 AM

Right then. (Semi-)fresh from my review of The Stage Of Apocalypse, I'm now here to give me ten pence on season one of Teen Titans X.:)

For the most part, my thoughts on Apocalypse apply equally here. Descriptions are clear, vocabulary is sophisticated, spelling and grammar are well-done: as I said last time, all basic stuff, but it counts. Also, you've come up with some very cool ideas here, such as the duel with Raven's Inner Demon (on a deeper level, having to experience her full emotions in order to control them), Raven's prank on Cipher that very rapidly becomes unfunny, Cyborg locked in a public duel with a borderline-psychotic robot, and quite a few other things. Despite your claims, you've certainly got imagination.;) Also, I have to give your credit for your wonderfully perverse sense of humour, such as the running gag of Raven smacking around Beast Boy for being so annoying. Really quite class.:D:evil:

On a similar note, I still quite like what you're doing with Cipher. I admit, he comes dangerously close to being a Mary Sue, but he isn't completely devoid of weaknesses or foibles. After all, I've yet to see him single-handedly devastate entire armies or anything stupid like that.;) And with regards to how much of a role the core Titans do/don't have, that's really not my concern. To my mind, it's often more interesting to see how outsiders regard this group.

But, again, your big Achilles Heel is pacing. As I said before, you just need to give events space to "breathe": if an event is important, spend a few sentences describing it, give us a feel for its sights/sounds/textures, how people react to it, other gubbins like that. For example, Sergei's entrance in episode two ("the door leading to the main hall exploded and a single man walked into the lounge"), considering it's the very dramatic introduction of our Big Bad, needed to be dragged out over at least a paragraph, if not two or three. Again, there's no need to go overboard, but the more details you can throw in, the better off your story will be.:D

Oh yes, and though this isn't greatly relevant to the subject at hand, I feel I ought to clear something up. I am not the best writer here. Maybe the most well-known (at least back in the day), but by no means the best. That honour must be split between DeathscytheVII and Death58, plus ArtificialIdiot if you include the Story Board. It's flattering that someone feels I should be on the list, but I'm simply not in their league.:sad:

In fact, if you want a proper lesson on how a Teen Titans fic should be done, then I can reccomend no better than DS7's The Lost Season (parts one and two) and Deathy's Coda. And also Welshi's Vanishing Act, as Jack suggested: he doesn't inhabit these parts any more, which is why I didn't call him "the best writer here", but he's certainly worthy of the title. Either way, copy those three stories to MS Word (or another word processor), drink up every single detail, and do things the way they do. You won't go wrong, I assure you.;):D

That's my ten pence, I think. Again, you're a good writer, and you have muchos potential, but you just need to put pen to paper/fingers to keyboard and practise. Write, write again and write some more, and carry on writing until you want to break down and cry. Only through practise will you improve.;)

-Matt A-

RavensDragon

01-17-2007, 05:23 PM

Not bad!

Atoragon

01-19-2007, 07:04 PM

Okat here's the rest of the duel and Episode 06.

The engines roared as fuel was fed into the compression chamber. The blue flames extended two feet out behind the nozzles. Moguera’s feet lifted off the ground as he shot towards Cyborg, cocking his right arm back across his body and lashed out, trying to sever Cyborg’s head clean off of his shoulders. Cyborg sidestepped not a second too late as the blade skimmed his left shoulder. A thin slice of the titanium body armor slid off and clattered to the ground, still smoking from the white-hot plasma.

Cyborg wheeled around to face Moguera who had just slid to a stop. The armor on his shoulders rolled out, revealing a collage of rockets mounted under the armor. The collage of rockets fired in unison, sending a storm of white exhaust and explosive metal towards Moguera. One of the rockets made a lucky hit on Moguera’s left arm, destroying the plasma emitter.

Moguera screeched in anger. He turned around slowly to face Cyborg. The once four foot blade on his right arm, now containing all energy meant for two blades, was six-and-a-half feet long. He pointed the blade straight out at Cyborg’s face and spoke.

“That was quite a lucky hit, Cyborg,” he stated. “If my internal clock is functioning properly, I believe it has been five minutes, which means I have passed your challenge, but for the spirit of a challenge, I say we continue. Do you concur?”

“A hundred thousand people paid money to see us fight,” he replied as his shoulder hatched closed. “It would be a disappointment to send them all home after only five minutes, so I’m in!” Cyborg smiled as Moguera began to approach, the blade still held level. At close range, Moguera lunged, narrowly missing Cyborg’s groin region.

“Yo!” shouted Cyborg. “If those were still real, I’d kill you for that!” Moguera seemed to ignore the complaint. He pulled his blade back and lashed out once more. Cyborg ducked under the blade, and after it had passed clamped on to Moguera’s right forearm. The second emitter was instantly destroyed in his grip, but the surrounding armor in no way gave into the clamp. Cyborg cried out as he threw two tons of metal and circuitry down the football field.

Moguera collided with the field goal, his sharp spines along his back slicing through the protective padding and creating a huge hunch in the goal post. Moguera dislodged himself from the post, well, not exactly dislodged. He ripped the field goal structure clean of the ground, still lodged in his back. He began to shake violently until the structure was launched off and landed ten feet away.

Moguera fired up his rockets to take flight, but could not leave the ground. Two of the four rockets had been damaged upon impact and were now no longer operational. He cursed under his breath at the frail machinery under his impenetrable armor.

Cyborg took Moguera’s momentary lack of concentration to his advantage. He fired a twin-barreled sonic cannon blast. The twin beams struck Moguera and sent him sliding back five feet, but he remained upright.

In response, Moguera opened his mouth and fired his Maser Cannon. Cyborg rolled out of the way of the deadly electrical beam. He got to his feet and charged at Moguera.

Moguera continued the deadly barrage of Maser blasts, but his aim was off and Cyborg was able to dodge. Cyborg crossed the twenty yards in seven seconds flat and let loose a powerful roundhouse punch to the left side of Moguera’s head.

Moguera slid to a halt on the ground a few feet away. He slowly rose to his feet, his left eye socket completely caved in and sparking wildly. He roared angrily as his right fist began to shudder. The fist slowly broke apart and reformed into a large drill.

Moguera charged at Cyborg, his right arm cocked back and drill spinning at high RPM’s. He launched forward, plunging the drill deep into Cyborg’s chest cavity. Cyborg could feel his power draining away as the drill severed circuitry. In a last ditch effort to remove the drill, Cyborg delivered a straight kick to Moguera’s chest. Moguera staggered back and tried to regain coordination, but before he could, Cyborg hit him in the chin with an uppercut, sending him flying through the air and skidding to a halt 20 yards away.

Moguera got even slower this time around, clumps of dirt falling off of him. He turned around to face Cyborg and saw the ten-foot long, two feet deep trench his body had dug when he hit the ground.

He had had enough of this fight. A three-section door opened on his chest. At the tip of each folded out door, blue energy began to spark. Energy slowly began to collect, forming a writhing sphere of energy that was steadily glowing. When the sphere became larger, it began to look like a snake rolled in a ball. After a minute of charging, the Absolute Zero Cannon was ready to fire.

The glowing sphere virtually exploded when it fired. A double helix wrapped around a central core of glowing blue energy streaked towards Cyborg. Cyborg was frozen in fear as the beam approached. Before he could react, Raven appeared out of the ground and surrounded him in her cloak. She then descended back into the ground to safety with Cyborg in tow. The deadly beam passed by where Raven faded into the ground only milliseconds after she was in safety.

It continued until it collided with a section of the grandstands that was closed for reasons unknown. A section of the grandstands thirty feet wide and passed from the ground to half way up the structure was frozen instantly. The section exploded from the dramatic difference in temperature.

Almost immediately after the beam ended, Moguera’s right eye shut off. He began to teeter in place before he fell over on his side.

+++++

“Dude, what just happened to Moguera?” inquired Beast Boy as he stared down upon the carnage.

“That Absolute Zero Cannon was much more powerful than the ones in the test firings,” replied Cipher as he looked over Beast Boy’s shoulder. “Most likely, Moguera’s micro-oxygen reactor overloaded from the excessive amount of energy needed to fire the Absolute Zero Cannon.”

“Do you come with subtitles?”

“No.” As soon as the word uttered from Cipher’s mouth, Raven emerged from the ground and opened her cloak. Cyborg tumbled out and onto the floor.

“Man! I thought you said you ordered Moguera not to use that cannon!”

“I did. You know about the ‘ghost in the machine’ theory, right?” Cyborg nodded. “Well, I believe that Moguera may be experiencing something like that. His computer was programmed so that he could learn, so he could have had a change of mind on whether to follow orders. He wanted to win that battle for machine pride.”

________________________________________________________________

A few notes:

+Moguera is based almost entirely on Mechagodzilla (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mechagodzilla)(The Millenium series version) except for his structure is not built around a skeleton of Godzilla and his power source is a micro-oxygen reactor, created from the info gathered by the oxygen destroyer, so his power wont run out as easily.

+All informtion about the Absolute Zero Cannon is contained in the above article, so I recommend reading the "Arsenal" section.

Matt A

01-21-2007, 06:58 AM

Unfortunately, there isn't a "raised eyebrow" smilie. If there was, I'd be using it right now.

I'll get onto why in a bit. Firstly, I just need to say that this is a marked improvement in writing style. There's still a lot of Tell in there - for example, the freezing/detonation of the stands needs to be more than three sentences - but you've certainly been more liberal with the descriptions and details this time. It makes the piece more exciting to read, and because it's easier to visualise the situation, we can also more readily understand the stakes Cyborg was facing...which, in turn, makes the battle even more exciting. It all helps.:D

So, the "raised eyebrow" comment. Well, it's both a good and bad thing, really. The good part was that this battle was very interesting, with a crowd-pleasing robot duel very rapidly turning into a full-on, life-or-death mega-brawl. Moguera clearly has a few screws loose, if he thinks that a "demonstration of his skills" should entail blowing a teammate off the face of the Earth. There's machine pride, and there's just being a psychopath.:eek: It's a little disturbing, but then again, interesting things often are.;)

The bad thing...well, it's not really a bad thing, as such, just a little problem you should be on the look-out for. Basically, the Titans should be a little more alarmed that this battle went the way it did. You did address this, with Raven pulling Cyborg from the fight, not to mention the little conversation piece at the end, so I have to applaud you for that, but you needed to take this further. If nothing else, Cipher should be worried that his creation just tried to kill one of his friends, rather than treating the situation as an interesting psychological experiment.;) Again, you didn't forget to touch on this, so I'm not going to smack you for it, but it's worth remembering that, when you up the scale of a problem, you need to up the scale of a character's reaction.;)

Well, that's all from me. A good offering from you, and I'm excited to see some more.:D

-Matt A-

Atoragon

01-22-2007, 08:30 PM

I would have replied yesterday, but I was at my first ever YuGiOh tournament:) , which... i failed horribly at:crying:

Firstly, I just need to say that this is a marked improvement in writing style.

why thank you:D

The bad thing...well, it's not really a bad thing, as such, just a little problem you should be on the look-out for. Basically, the Titans should be a little more alarmed that this battle went the way it did. You did address this, with Raven pulling Cyborg from the fight, not to mention the little conversation piece at the end, so I have to applaud you for that, but you needed to take this further. If nothing else, Cipher should be worried that his creation just tried to kill one of his friends, rather than treating the situation as an interesting psychological experiment.;) Again, you didn't forget to touch on this, so I'm not going to smack you for it, but it's worth remembering that, when you up the scale of a problem, you need to up the scale of a character's reaction.;)

Well, that's all from me. A good offering from you, and I'm excited to see some more.:D

-Matt A-

I will go further in the next episode. I needed to hold the more... forceful... speeches will come in the next bit, well, because, to me, it would make more sense then.

Matt A

01-23-2007, 06:58 AM

Well, I guess that makes sense. Feel free to ignore what I said.;)

-Matt A-

RavensDragon

01-24-2007, 04:37 PM

keep on going, this is getting interesting!:raven:

Atoragon

01-26-2007, 12:02 AM

Here is the next episode to all those who are waiting. It's only bout halfway done, so the title is subject to change. This first half is supposed to be a bit comedic before the more serious part which I hope to have up in a day or two... or three.

Episode 07: Reprocutions

Slowly the picture came into focus through the cloud of static. Faint outlines came into to view before sharpening into view of the inside of Cipher’s room. The tiny electric motor whirred as it spun the camera forty-five degrees right, showing Cipher working on his computer, a spherical computer on the desk next to him. Cipher glanced over at the camera, noticing the small light that indicated “on” was lit up.

“Glad to see you’re… awake… Moguera. Is that the right word to use? Don’t know, off topic.” Cipher looked back at the computer and continued to work.

“Master, may I inquire as to why I am not in my body?” asked Moguera’s computerized voice over the speaker next to the camera.

“I have to make repairs to your body, it was severely damaged in your duel with Cyborg. But you could also consider this punishment,” sighed Cipher not looking away from the monitor.

“What am I being punished for?”

“Moguera, you disobeyed direct orders. Robin was ready and willing to let you on the team until that little stunt you pulled with the Absolute Zero Cannon. Remember what that little stunt was?”

“I used it.”

“Exactly. My orders were to not use the cannon under any circumstances, but you used it anyway. As fore mentioned, Robin was going to let you on the team, but not now. He says if you can obey orders, you may get on the team, but if you can’t, I will be forced to dismantle and shut you down permanently. Not to mention that you lost every single ounce of respect Cyborg and some of the others had and could have for you.”

“Can I have a second chance?”

“Well, everyone deserves a second chance, but keep in mind, you’re on thin ice. Even the slightest screw up and you can consider yourself scrap metal.”

+++++

“His power is most devastating,” commented Sergei as he, along with Slade, watched the film of Moguera and Cyborg’s fight from the balcony of Slade’s new lair. Slade reached over and pressed a large button on the control panel and the picture flashed to the point of the Absolute Zero Cannon.

“Indeed. With this new ally, the Titans have become even more formidable, but after tapping into the comm. system of their Tower, I have found his one flaw.”

“What is that?”

“A certain lack of following orders. Apparently Cipher told him not to use a weapon called the “Absolute Zero Cannon”, and I believe this is it,” replied Slade as he pointed at the frozen picture of the blast. ““Moguera” as guess he’s called, violated direct orders and that almost cost a Titan their life. If we could exploit this, the Titans could be destroyed without us having to twitch a finger.”

“But how are we going to get him to disobey orders, again? He was told if he did again, he’d surely be destroyed.”

“Ahh, but that is where we come in. He is not an idiot, like some.” Slade cast a glance at Billy Numerous who was digging through boxes of junk on the ground floor. “When he knows what’s coming to him, he’ll flee. Once he’s out of the Titans control, he’ll want revenge against them, and that is what we can use to get him to join us.”

“How would you get him to stay with us?”

“Easy really.” Slade reached down and pressed another button on the panel. A speaker next to the button crackled with static before the butler’s voice came through.

“What can I do for you, Master Slade?”

“Wintergreen, I want you to get a hold of a man named Fix-It…”

+++++

“I still don’t trust him.”

“Robin,” sighed Cipher, “I have talked to him. He knows what must be done and the consequences. Moguera, confirm command. You will now take orders from Robin, Raven and Cyborg.”

“Command confirmed. I will now accept orders from Robin, Raven and Cyborg.”

“Dude! What about me and Star?!” whined Beast Boy.

“Well,” replied Raven, giving Beast Boy a glare. “You’d probably have him fetch sodas for you and Starfire would probably have him do tea parties.”

“Oh, wouldn’t it be glorious!” squealed Starfire. “We can dress up and drink tea and have conversations with my stuffed animals!” Beast Boy squeaked and hid on the other side of the couch. It was his turn last time to go to Star’s ‘party’ and when he exited he sported a pink dress and a least a pound of make-up. It was quite a laugh, although Raven dreaded when the next party was because it was her turn next.

“Beast Boy,” laughed Cyborg. “Come on. It wasn’t that bad. Was it? I mean, Raven had pigtails, a bright yellow dress and more make up than you. I doubt your little bit was worse than that.”

“Shut up,” scowled Raven. Her hair and cloak billowed in the windless living room, but she stopped herself from going berserk.

“That reminds me, it your turn Raven!” squealed Starfire. “Oh, we will have so much fun! I just got this beautiful, new pink dress for you to wear!”

“Moguera,” scowled Raven. “Here’s your first order from me. TAKE MY PLACE!”

“Yes, Raven.” Starfire and Moguera walked up the small flight of stairs and out of the living room. Raven let off a sigh of relief as the door hissed shut.

+++++

“Hmm. Ten minutes. No explosions. No screams of terror. Sounds like Moguera hasn’t ended the world,” commented Cipher as he looked at the ticking clock on the wall. He winced and regretted his comment as the floor of the living room shuddered. The south wall burst apart, spraying a shower of concrete chunks. Moguera rocketed across the room and crashed near the kitchen, skidding to a halt, his face dug into the floor. “I take that back.”

Moguera hopped up off the ground and landed roughly on his feet. He frantically spun around, looking for a place to hide. The, now tattered and covered in dirt, tutu hung loosely around his waste and what looked like a paint grenade going off adorned his face, apparently Starfire’s attempt at make up.

He then noticed his spot. In two leaps, he cleared the ten feet to the kitchen sink. He ripped open the cabinet door and crammed himself into the comparatively small opening. The dorsal spines serrated wood and shattered tiles as Moguera tried desperately to fit in the cramped quarters under the sink. He was only able to fit half way in, but he was in too much of a frenzy to give a damn. His tailed quivered as he curled it up into a ball.

“Don’t let her find me!” he screeched, fears ever present his normally monotonic voice. Shortly after, Starfire hovered through the hole in the wall.

“Oh, Moguera? Where are you?” Starfire called. Beast Boy was going to answer truthfully, but Cipher interrupted him.

“No clue, Star,” he lied. “I’d check the workshops or the garage. Those seem like places where a robot would hide out.”

“Oh, thank you friend Cipher,” replied Starfire with a friendly wave. She floated over to the side door. It opened with a hiss and she passed through, heading towards the garage. Slowly, Moguera pulled himself free of the cabinet, being careful not to cause any more damage.

“Is she gone?” inquired Moguera, fear still eminent in his voice.

“I guess. For now, at least,” replied Beast Boy.

“Go get yourself cleaned up. You look like a bloody mess.”

Matt A

01-26-2007, 07:30 AM

Now that was pretty impressive. For the time being, it seems I can get off your back on the whole "show not tell" thing: I admit, this wasn't a masterpiece, but you've certainly got the point a lot quicker than I was expecting. And besides, I'm not one of those people who throws a hissy whenever something is an A rather than an A*.;) So, basically, continue as you are now, and I reckon you'll become pretty damn good 'ere long.:D

But anyway, now's time for the specifics. Firstly, it gives me a happy that you've given Moguera's actions in the last episode their due weight. The Titans are a relatively forgiving bunch of people, and they act appropriately here, but they also make it completely clear that Moguera has screwed up. I'm not sure how to put it more intelligently, but still, there's some good work there.:D

Secondly, there's Slade and Sergei. Slade is a very private and enigmatic person, often deliberately so, and this is something you've managed to get pretty much right. Though not a team player, his sheer pragmatism would let him follow the Brotherhood's lead and create his own Evil Team-up, not to mention having Sergei as a very well-informed Number Two: after all, he wasn't above working with Trigon, and even the Titans, when circumstances required it. So, whilst sharing his plans so openly with Sergei is arguably out-of-character for him, it makes sense that his final push at destroying the Titans would be more than a one-man job. And he's blatantly got a plan to be the sole winner in this scenario.;):evil:

Oh yes, and let's not forget the obvious there: Moguera turned against the Titans will be very bad news. From what I can see, that conflict has "season finale" written all over it. Not to mention "bloody awesome".:D:evil:

And last, but sure as hell not least, we have the comic relief of Starfire's tea parties. It's completely insane and completely implausible, and thus is completely in-character for our Tamaranian friend. Plus it gave us comic gems like these:

“Moguera,” scowled Raven. “Here’s your first order from me. TAKE MY PLACE!”

“Hmm. Ten minutes. No explosions. No screams of terror. Sounds like Moguera hasn’t ended the world,”

...

Moguera rocketed across the room and crashed near the kitchen, skidding to a halt, his face dug into the floor. “I take that back.”

The dorsal spines serrated wood and shattered tiles as Moguera tried desperately to fit in the cramped quarters under the sink. He was only able to fit half way in, but he was in too much of a frenzy to give a damn. His tailed quivered as he curled it up into a ball.

“Don’t let her find me!” he screeched, fears ever present his normally monotonic voice.

Simply put, I think I underestimated your potential to be funny.;):D

Well, that's all from me. Some great work here, and I'm excited to see where things go next.:D

-Matt A-

Atoragon

01-26-2007, 10:18 AM

much thanks matt

truthfully, i did not find my own humor that funny. maybe that's cause i dont laugh at anything though.

on a second note, I actually had the battle against Moguera planned for episode(s) 9 and/or 10. In the season finale I was planning to completely level Jump City in some big ass battle that would see the return of Spirnak and posssibly the other Gods. There is also a possibilty for the Greipnir to make an appearance. But those are only plans and plans can be changed.

third. WOOT! 30 replies, 500 views!

RavensDragon

01-27-2007, 02:48 PM

Your storys are getting more interesting!

Atoragon

01-29-2007, 07:02 PM

quick update.

i'm bout a third to half way done with the second half of the chapter. i've the basic story line planned out, its just proving very hard to put it to words while still complying to the "show, dont tell" ordeal. hope to have it up a lot later today, like 10PM pacific time (think thats 1AM eastern and bout 6AM england) or tomorrow.

Atoragon

01-30-2007, 11:59 PM

Here is the rest of Episode 07. It is not as good as I would have liked, but all writers think their pieces are worse then they actually are.

________________________________________________________________

The warning klaxon blared, sending an eerie glow of red spinning around the living room. Titans piled in from all directions, gathering around Robin and the mainframe.

“What’s up, Rob?”

“Plasmus, Cinderblock and Overload are attacking downtown. Titans, GO!”

+++++

“Urrrrgggghhhh!”

Robin was sent flying across the street by a Cinderblock uppercut. He crashed into a nearby car, denting the hood and cracking the windshield. He slowly slid off, his body aching all over. Through his blurred vision, he could barely make out a blob of gray growing increasingly larger. Robin’s eyes came back into to focus to see Cinderblock charging right at him. He could not have been farther than 20 feet away, barely enough time to move, but before Robin could even make a move, a streak of silver impacted Cinderblock.

Cinderblock was sent flying down the street, where he proceeded to collide with the side of an office building. A hail of dust and fist-sized chunks of concrete came raining down upon civilians. Robin glanced over to where Cinderblock was to see Moguera. Moguera’s rockets sputtered and coughed as they shut down. The armor on his left shoulder, which is what he hit Cinderblock with, had minor dents all over it.

“Moguera, dontcha think these guys are getting even stronger?” joked Robin.

“I agree, but I believe that the impact has affected your brain. This is most unlike you. We should get you back to the tower immediately.” Robin got to his feet shook his head, straightening his thoughts.

“No. I’m fine, I’m over it. Moguera, I think this has gone on long enough. I need you to prepare the Absolute Zero Cannon immediately. I’ll give you orders when to fire.”

“Yes, Robin.”

++++++

“Hahaha… Stop… Woohoohoo… That tickles… Heeheehee.” No matter how hard he tried, Overload and his electrical energy could not harm Cipher.

“Foolish biological, Overload will destroy!”

“You know… hoohoo… Overload, I control all this, so you can’t hurt me with electricity… hahaha… all you do is tickle and entertain me… heeheehee.” In a minor break from Overload’s onslaught, Cipher was able to get into a clearing. He charged full speed at Overload and drove his fist deep into the electrical mass. Electricity arced up his arm as he slowly absorbed all of Overload’s power. With a final pop, all of Overload’s energy was deep inside Cipher’s body and Overload himself was nothing more than a computer chip.

Something had not gone right with the energy absorption. Electricity began to arced wildly and uncontrollably around Cipher’s body. There was a pop and then the sound of sizzling bacon as the energy suddenly was released, scorching Cipher’s hair. He coughed, letting out a smoke ring.

“Dude? What happened to you?” inquired Beast Boy as he poked the smoking hair.

“Overload.”

+++++

“Azarath Metrion Zin…urgh!”

Raven was hurled back by a globule of Plasmus’s goop. She crashed against a brick wall, which nearly made her loose consciousness. As she slumped to the ground, the goop began to harden, forming a shell around her entire body except her head. By the time Raven had awoken, the goop had hardened into an unbreakable shell.

“Hmm. That’s a new trick. I’m really going to need a shower after this, though,” she commented to herself.

Cyborg leveled his sonic cannon at Plasmus. The cannon pulsed and fired, puncturing through Plasmus’s soft stomach. Although it did not hurt him, it still left it mark. Cyborg guided the light blue beam up Plasmus’s body until it cut through the top of his head. Plasmus’s to halves hunched over before falling to the ground. Before they even hit the ground, they began to reform, but this gave Cyborg enough time to help Raven.

“Hey, Rae, you okay?” asked Cyborg as he jogged over to Raven and kneeled down next to her.

“Does it look like I’m okay?!” she screeched in response.

“You sound okay,” mumbled Cyborg as he reformed his right arm. His right hand twist and broke apart, revealing a chainsaw. He slowly pushed to whirring blade deep into the shell. After a minute of working, he had cut away enough of the stuff to allow Raven to get free.

“Azarath, Metrion, ZINTHOS!” chanted Raven as a pool of dark energy surrounded her. The pool exploded outwards, shattering the rest of the shell. Bits of magenta shards still clung to her leotard and cape, giving her the appearance of wearing scale armor.

Raven repositioned herself into a cross-legged pose a few feet off the ground. Concentrating hard, her soul self left her body and flew towards the newly reformed Plasmus. It entered his body and he began to twitch. Plasmus fell over onto his face and the ooze began to drain away, revealing a man in only an undergarment sleeping in his place. The soul self returned to Raven and she settled back onto the ground. Two down, one to go.

+++++

Starfire hurtled at Cinderblock mere feet off the ground. Green starbolt energy surrounded her hands. Jolting right, she narrowly missed a car thrown at her by Cinderblock, but had to veer left almost as fast to avoid the street lamp.

Starfire struck out at Cinderblock and hit him directly in the face. He stumbled back, but was able to regain balance. As Starfire shot up to get away from the now angrier than ever pile of rock, she was caught. Cinderblock had a near death grip on her arms. He squeezed her in, cracking bones and crushing organs. No matter how much Starfire struggled, she was unable to get free.

“Moguera! Fire that cannon at Cinderblock!” ordered Robin.

“But I may hit Starfire!” he retorted.

“She’ll get free before then! FIRE!”

“Hypersonic scanners are picking up sound of breaking bones! She won’t get free in time, if at all!”

“Are you doubting Starfire’s abilities?!”

“No, I am just fearing for her safety.”

“She will be fine! She will get free! Now FIRE!”

“I can’t.” Moguera shut down the Absolute Zero Cannon and the energy slowly dissipated away. He fired up the rockets on his back and launched himself at Cinderblock. He soared down the street and tackled Cinderblock around the knees. The force of impact forced to drop the stunned Starfire and launched him back into a nearby building, spewing a cloud of dust that made the carnage unseen. Robin sprinted to Starfire’s limp form on the street and fell to his knees.

“Star? Star, are you okay?” he whimpered.

“Robin?” she whispered. Her voice was very weak. Moguera slowly emerged from the cloud of dust, dragging behind him a badly battered Cinderblock. Cinderblock had large cracks running throughout his body. He was clearly unconscious from the injuries. Moguera had not faired much better. His left shoulder had even worse dents. The left-side rocket on Moguera’s back was smashed and sparking wildly. A slight limp accompanied his right leg.

Robin cast Moguera and slowly scooped up Starfire and laid her across the back seat of the T-Car. Cyborg drove home, leaving Raven, Beast Boy, Cipher and Moguera standing in the street to clean up the mess.

“What’s up with Rob?” asked Beast Boy after a period of eerily long silence.

“A person he cares deeply for just got badly injured. What would you expect?” replied Raven. A slightly annoyed tone accompanied her voice.

“But he just left us here.”

“There isn’t exactly any room in the T-Car.”

“Oh.”

+++++

Moguera’s central computer slowly rebooted after repairs were complete. His eyes flicked on, showing him the Titans minus Robin and Starfire standing around the repair bed.

“Moguera, I have some bad news,” deadpanned Cipher.

“What is it?”

“I’m being forced to dismantle you.”

“What? Why?”

“Robin in his infinite stubbornness is convince that all of Starfire’s injuries were caused when you tackled Cinderblock, not before hand, so he’s blaming you for her injuries,” replied Raven.

“But we all know what really happened, including Starfire,” added Cyborg.

“So that’s why I cannot comply with Robin’s command,” finished Cipher. “Moguera, I want you to go to the junkyard. There, you will find a man named Fix-It. He is a genius with robotics and we have already had it set up for him to watch over you. We all will work to make Robin think his commands were followed to the letter. Maybe in the future when Robin isn’t so stubborn you can return.”

“I thank you for seeing the truth,” said Moguera as he rose to his feet. He slowly strode to the window and placed his hand on it. He slid the window and looked over his shoulder.

“Good bye, friends. I shall… miss you,” he stated before the roar of his rocket engines overcame all other noises. He slowly lifted of his feet and flew out the window. He turned towards the south end of town, where the junkyard was located. The four Titans stood at the window and watched him go until he was a mere speck against the skyline.

+++++

“Master Slade, we have reports from Fix-It that Moguera has arrived at his facility. He has commenced ‘repairs’ as he calls them.”

“Good. Very good. My scheme for the Titans final destruction is going exactly as planned.”

__________________________________________________________________________

My mind is going through severe writers block, so expect a good period before the next piece. On a seperate note, I would like to introduce my next piece, "Teen Titans: The Covenant War." It is pretty much a Halo crossover and I should begin posting once this piece is complete. You can consider it the next part in the 'Cipher Series' of Teen Titans. All that crap i was sayin bout Cipher-x-Raven in the opening speech for "The Stage of Apocalypse" will come to truth in that piece, I hope. I dont want to spoil too much.

RavensDragon

02-01-2007, 05:06 PM

I really like it! It's coming on good. I can't wait until the next one!

Atoragon

02-01-2007, 11:18 PM

I admire the fact that you like my piece, but you'll need to have a bit of patience. I'm working on episode 08 as we speak and I hope to have it up tonite or tomorrow. Depends how much studying for the SAT I do.

<EDIT>

Scratch that. Tomorrow or the next day.

Matt A

02-02-2007, 08:55 AM

If there was a chin-stroking smilie, I'd be using it. But there isn't, so I shall have to make do with

Interesting...

But before I get to that bit, I must first point out the negatives. Because I'm like that. But anyway, I know that the "show not tell" stuff is a pain in the bloody arse - I mean, despite my ceaseless banging on about it as of late, I don't always obey it myself - but even though I hate saying it even more than you hate hearing it, there is a reason why the doctrine exists. In this case, Moguera's departure at the end was far shorter than it needed to be: at the very least, the Titans themselves should've said goodbye, not just him and Cipher. And I know following orders is a big part of Moguera's character, but he should've tried to argue against something as serious as banishment. Both him and everyone else felt a little too...complying about the whole thing, even if it was just a way to avoid a worse fate.:sad:

Still, that's my sole criticism. Stylistically, everything else was okay (or in the case of Starfire getting injured, very good:D), and anyway, the content on offer here is what makes the chapter cool.;):D

Firstly, there was the Cinderblock/Plasmus/Overload fights. Each one of them was enjoyable and inventive, whether it was Overload stupidly attacking someone who could control electricity, Raven getting covered in gloop and subsequently going loco on Plasmus' hide, or Cinderblock suddenly becoming more hardcore than usual and inflicting some real damage. That last part in particular was a genuinely tense moment, when the stakes got upped in a very nasty way and no one knew quite what to do. A good call on that sequence, there.:D

Secondly, despite my whinging above, Moguera's banishment was actually a pretty good idea. We already know that Robin is overly protective of Starfire, so when his nightmare happens and she get seriously injured, it makes sense that he would want to cope with the stress by finding someone to blame. After all, it was Star getting injured that launched him onto his Red X suicide mission in Masks...and in this case, with him not seeing an obvious mastermind to obsessively pursue, it also makes sense that he should beat up on a third party he didn't trust anyway as a substitute. Also, it makes sense that the other Titans aren't so pig-headed over it all, yet are aware that their leader needs to see his command obeyed. An interesting move all-round.:D

More to the point, we already know that this is the dumbest move in the history of ever, so it'll be cool to see how everyone reacts when Robin's temper and the others' disobedience comes back to bite them on the arse.:D:evil:

-Matt A-

PS: The Covenant War sounds cool. I don't know much about Halo, but unlikely crossovers always attract my attention.:)

RavensDragon

02-02-2007, 03:26 PM

Ya, I know.
Hey, everyone, check out this video! It made me laugh!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gpUVGzSBUG8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gpUVGzSBUG8)

Atoragon

02-04-2007, 01:13 AM

Ya, I know.
Hey, everyone, check out this video! It made me laugh!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gpUVGzSBUG8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gpUVGzSBUG8)

Hmm. Just a little spammy, but I don't really care.

Here's the next bit. It's only half an episode and it strays slightly from the main ordeal with Moguera, but it still has something to do the overall story for the entire series. So here we go.

Episode 08: Blind Date

“Hehehe… This is the best plan ever,” sniggered Beast Boy. He was crouched on the ground next to the phone. Starfire was speaking on the phone.

“Ihra auren o freund uaik Cipher. Ihra volan liern hai kieren o tarisian für Valentine’s Day.”

“Ihra auren suma morgen. Vir kienamakhen haben das feiertag ins Aerkusto.”

“Oh, dan für kei datum kikagetsu zehnni-ban, fün uhr .”

“Kou, morgen.”

“Viele Daigaiju.” Starfire sighed as she set the receiver back onto the base of the phone. She stared down at her now trembling hand. She would have slumped over if it were not for the back brace, the remnant of Cinderblock’s death grip.

“Your evil deed is done, Beast Boy,” she sighed as she turned and looked down at the sniggering Beast Boy.

“Thank you so much!” squealed Beast Boy as he stood and shook Starfire’s hand vigorously.

“This may be fun for you, but what you made me do to learn Aerkustan I do not approve of,” replied Starfire as she ripped her hand free of Beast Boy’s grasp.

“What? Isn’t that how Tamaranians learn languages? Besides, he was sleeping.”

“But I am with Robin, and such a custom means more hear on Earth. If Robin found out, he would not approve at all.”

“That’s why we’re going to keep this part of the plan secret. Now for phase two. I need Cyborg to go talk to Cipher and I need you to go talk to…”

+++++

“You, Cipher! Mind if I had a word with you?” asked Cyborg as he walked into the spare workshop. Cipher flinched as he was yelled at; smacking the back of his head against the access panel he had stuck his head in. He pulled himself out of the skeleton of his newest project and rubbed the back of his head. He pulled his hand back and saw blood covering his hand, but he shrugged it off.

Striding over to Cyborg, he asked, “What can I do for you?”

“Well, umm… Beast Boy…”

“What did he do?”

“He set you up on a blind date at a place called the Veisse Organa. What is that anyways?”

“Oh, ****. I’m gonna kill him.” Cipher began to pace back and forth rapidly. His brow furrowed and he stroked his chin as he thought. “To answer your question, Veisse Organa, translated to English, means ‘White Orchid’. The Veisse Organa is the premier restaurant in Oured, the capital of Aerkusto. Think of it as the equivalent as that Don Saleri’s place here in Jump.”

“Uh, huh. So, you gonna go?”

“Nope.”

“Why not? You could use some time out. You’re starting to act Raven-esque by being alone and working on personal projects. I know you want to get your mind of Moguera and finish this… whatever it is, but this blind date may do you some good.” Cipher stopped pacing and folded his arms behind his back. He turned to face Cyborg and stared him in the eyes.

“I’ll go, but I’m not guaranteeing a damn thing.”

“I’m not asking for you to guarantee anything. Its just you should get out more. You need some sunlight. Your skin is getting really pale. If I didn’t know better, I would say you were Rae’s bro with the pale face and anti-social behavior you’ve been having as of late.”

“Oh, goodie,” grunted Cipher. He turned back around and stalked back to the skeleton. He stuck his head back into the same access panel and began to rewire the circuitry. “So, how long do I have until the end of the world?”

“Huh?”

“The blind date.”

“Oh. It’s on Valentine’s Day, so, you have a couple of days.”

“Is it prepaid?”

“Beast Boy put in on some kind of tab, so, yeah, I guess.”

“So the only cost to me is the jet fuel to get over there. I think I’ll charge Beast Boy for that, though. He’s the reason I have to do this.” Cyborg chuckled.

“If you don’t mind getting paid back in tofu waffles.”

+++++

“So, run me through this again.”

“Our friend Beast Boy has set you up on a blind date,” explained Starfire. “In a few days, on Valentine’s Day, you will meet the mystery boy at the Veisse Organa in Oured, Aerkusto.”

“And I can’t refuse to show up, why?”

“According to Beast Boy, it will bring a bad reputation to the Teen Titans, especially you.” Starfire had purposefully left out the fact that the reason for the bad rep was that Beast Boy had organized to have all this televised.

“If you here Beast Boy screaming in pain, ignore him.”

_________________________________________________________________________

Attention Mods. We need "Chin stroking" smilie. Thank you. (Wondering why? Read Matt's post.)

Atoragon

02-06-2007, 11:38 PM

Hi, y'all. Sorry I've been gone for a while. I should've said this yesterday, but I couldn't get on my computer. So here is my quote:

Happy Birthday, Raven:raven:

Now that that is out of my system, I'll bring you guys up to steam. Recently, I have not been working on my piece. This sort of stuff is new to me (the blind date), so I am going to think it over a lot and when it's written, if it's cheesy, deal with me. Secondly, I have not been writing because I have been planning for the future. When the eventual fight against Moguera comes, he will sporting a few "upgrades" (new weaponry and such). I also need to coordinate the fight (Yes, it will be long). Finally, I've been doing sketches. I haven't done one of Cipher yet, but I do have one of the Suviekasuvarten and am currently working on one for the Nachrallis. Before you ask, the Suviekasuvarten it the plane Cipher crashed into Titans' lives with and the Nachrallis is the project he is currently working on in Ep. 08.

Oh wait, before I forget, I have the prologue to The Covenant War written. I might consider posting it here to see what you guys think so far.

That's all for now. I guess I'm going to work on the rest of Ep. 08 now. In my opinion, Ep. 08 is by far the worst, but the fun stuff will be coming soon.

<EDIT>

Oh my gods! I almost forgot.

Y'all probably wondering where in hell Aerkusto is. So I have come up with an answer. In this story, Eastern Europe is reorganized. The area that makes up Poland, Belarus, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia is Belka. The Ukraine, Moldova, Romania, Hungary and Slovakia are Aerkusto. Finally, Bulgaria, Macedonia, Albania, Serbia & Montenegro, Boznia & Herzogovina, Croatia and Slovenia are Yuktobonia (formerly known as Jirashai).

Another thing I realized. I dont have a scanner! Since I cant post my sketches, I will do the next best thing. Post look-a-likes. The Suvieksuvarten, or Switchblade in English, is similar to the X-02 Wyvern from Ace Combat and the Nachrallis, or Night Raven in English, is similar to the Fenrir from Ace Combat, so I'll just post pictures of those.

Wyvern (Switchblade):
http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o13/Cipher1112/Wyvernblueprints.jpg
http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/8489/wyvernblueprintsyd8.th.jpg (http://img369.imageshack.us/my.php?image=wyvernblueprintsst0.jpg][IMG]http://img369.imageshack.us/img369/5731/wyvernblueprintsst0.th.jpg)"] (http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o13/Cipher1112/Wyvernblueprints.jpg)[/URL]

http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o13/Cipher1112/X-02.png
Fenrir (Night Raven):

http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o13/Cipher1112/FenrirLeaseathpaintjob2.jpg
Sorry about the Night Raven picture being a little fuzzy.
(Note: I do not own and did not create these pictures.)
Suviekasuvarten and Nachrallis are words in my fictional language Aerkustan.

<EDIT> again

Here's a map of the "new" Eastern Europe I was referring to.
http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o13/Cipher1112/EasternEuropeinTeenTitansUnivers-1.jpg

Atoragon

02-10-2007, 01:05 AM

Okay, here is the next part of the not so looked forward to Ep. 08.
_________________________________________________________________
A few days later, Valentine’s Day…

“Civilian clothes seem so awkward,” commented Cipher as he looked over the suit Cyborg had thrown him into. It had a white dress shirt, gray pants and sport jacket. Thin, light gray pin stripes ran perpendicular to the ground There was no tie, but that did not mean it wasn’t itchy as all hell.

“Hold still, man. I only got a few stitches left to go.” Cyborg was finishing up a quick tailoring job on the right leg of the pants. With a final yank, he pulled the string tight and the excess loose, letting it fall to the floor.

“Dude, this thing is itchier than one of those damn sweaters my grandma used to give me. Why can’t I wear my normal clothes?” Cyborg let off a soft chuckle and stood up.

“Wearing that fight suit thing of yours? To, as what you called it, the premier restaurant in Oured? You’ll look like a joke, even with you being an Oracle and what not.”

“Good point.” Cipher began to walk out of the room and Cyborg followed. “Did my order from the Aerkustan government come in?”

“For a plane? Yeah, man. I think they gave you an upgrade, though, because they sent one, of what they called, Suvi… Suvi-ay…”

“Suviekasuvarten.”

“Yeah, that’s it. What does that mean, anyways?”

“Well, suvieka means change or switch, and suvarten mean blade or sword, so, Suviekasuvarten literally means Switchblade.”

“Uh huh. I guess that explains the funky wings the thing has.”

“It was because of those wings that it got the name in the first place. Those wings were what the entire plane was designed around. I should know, my father flies one for the Aerkustan Air Force.”

“Uh huh. Well, he we are.” Cyborg typed a code into the control panel next to the door the two had just stopped next to. It slowly opened, revealing the room with the pneumatic lift that the T-Ship normally launched into space from. Twin rocket boosters stood next to the far wall. The T-Ship itself was nestled in an out cove, surrounded by carts of tools. But what really caught interest was a snow-white plane with blue highlights standing the center of the large room. A shining glare came off the machine from the fluorescent lights.

“Good thing they got the right color. I hate that baby blue and brown paint scheme that the Milvus Squadron uses. I like this Galm paint, fits my style a little better.”

“Sounds like there isn’t a problem here. Mount up.” Cipher hopped up the ladder leading to the cockpit. The sapphire tinted popped up a few inches, unlatching from the frame. It slowly lifted up until it was at a ninety-degree angle compared to where it was before. Cipher settled down into the form-fitting seat and looked upon the controls. There were enough dials, gauges and buttons to confuse even Cyborg, but he knew what to do as if it were second nature.

The engines began to sputter and cough. The roar began low and rose until it was the only sound in the room that was audible. Flames began to spout from the exhaust nozzles. The noise finally leveled off and Cyborg was finally able to get Cipher’s attention.

“Yo! Cipher! Remember to smile!” yelled Cyborg with a chuckle.

“I’ll smile when Beast Boy is paste against the floor!” replied Cipher with a similar chuckle. He flashed a thumb up as the canopy lowered and snapped into place. He fitted the seat belt over his shoulder and made a second gesture pointing out that he was ready.

The pneumatic lift began to swivel and rise. The two-part ceiling-door whirred as it opened, parting wide enough for the lift to push the Suviekasuvarten above ground. The platform stopped its raise and spun around one-hundred-eighty degrees.

Sections of ground began to roll away, revealing a short airstrip. Running lights appeared through holes in the ground along the sides of the strip. The Suviekasuvarten’s engines roared and jolted. The plane slowly inched forward and gained momentum. The front wheel bounced as the plane gained speed. Slowly the nose rose off the ground, followed shortly by the trailing wheels. The plane wobbled slightly as it took flight. Electric engines sprung to life as the plane reached 1000 ft. The wheels were retracted deep into the body, hatches closing behind them.

The plane soared through the morning sky. It streaked towards the northeast, planning on taking the arctic passage over the pole to Aerkusto.

Matt A

02-10-2007, 11:01 AM

Sorry for taking so long to get to this. University's started up again, so the free time I previously had has now vanished into thin air. Being so busy sucks, but you have to do the best with what you have.:sad:

Still, I'm here now. I have to admit, this episode is looking pretty cool: Raven forced on a date has been done before, I admit, but no matter how often you do it, the idea is still damn funny. And when you factor Cipher into the equation as well, it only gets funnier: I just imagine the awkward silences between those two already.:D:evil:

On a smiliar note...before I get much further, I have to highlight this:

“This may be fun for you, but what you made me do to learn Aerkustan I do not approve of,” replied Starfire as she ripped her hand free of Beast Boy’s grasp. “What? Isn’t that how Tamaranians learn languages? Besides, he was sleeping.”That is perhaps one of the funniest things I've ever read. A perfect demonstration of comedic understatement.:D

Anyway, the other thing. I'm not 100% sure why the date is happening in Aerkusto rather than Jump, but as it gives us an excuse to see the Switchblade (I won't bother with it's real name, 'cause I can't pronounce it), I don't really care. That plane is too cool for reasons.:D And whilst we're on the subject of Aerkusto (which we aren't, but never mind), it's interesting to see that it's actually a country: I'd always imagined it as an extra-dimensional sort of thing, like Azerath. I usually have a profound dislike for fictional countries, especially ones that require re-drawing whole continents, but in this case, I'm willing to run with it. Mostly 'cause I'm just curious to see if it's the post-Soviet concrete hellhole I imagine it being.;)

So, an interesting start to what seems to be an interesting story. I'm excited to see where this goes from here.:D

-Matt A-

Atoragon

02-10-2007, 07:52 PM

Few things I have to say:

1) Whenever I try to be funny, people think its cheesy, and when I just write, people think its hilarious... I dont get it:confused: :confused: :confused:

2) Pronunciation guide:
Suviekasuvarten (n): Sue-vee-ay-ka-sue-var-ten

3) Yes Matt, I agree. The Switchblade is wicked awesome. I just had to get it an appearance before I introduced its replacement.;)

4)It seems like everyone dislikes something about fanfictions. Glensather dislikes OC's, Matt A dislikes fictional countries and I dislike Raven having illegitimate children. It seems no matter how hard you try to make a story no one will dislike a part of, you'll always fail. Hmm... can't please everyone.

5) Post-Soviet concrete hellhole? I hadn't thought of that originally, but I rather like that idea.:D It should help explain why the Russians have such a bit in this story (referring to Ep. 02 and such).

Atoragon

02-10-2007, 11:43 PM

Okay, guys. I have a double present for y'all. I have the next part to Ep. 08 and the prologue to The Covenant War. Everybody go WOOT! Okay, you dont have to.

Here's the next part of Ep. 08:

Four hours into the projected eight-hour flight, a red light flashed in the Switchblade’s cockpit. The message ‘fuel low’ flashed across Cipher’s HUD.

“Sometimes I wish this thing was a hybrid,” mused Cipher to himself as he looked out the canopy at the swirling cloud formations. “Now how in hell am I supposed to find something that is optically camouflaged?”

Cipher looked around through the formations, searching for anything out of place. He knew it was a worthless search, but it would help ease the tension of the upcoming chaos. Knowing he couldn’t find something that was invisible, he sent a coded message over the radio, a frequency only one thing would respond to…

“This is Major Altmann of the Aerkustan refueling station Megafloat. What can I do for you, Holy Oracle?” asked a rough masculine voice over the radio.

“Major Altmann, good to hear from you,” replied Cipher. “You might just say I’m flying home to Aerkusto and am need of some fuel.”

“Roger, deactivating optical camouflage.” A ripple flowed through a clear patch of sky. Slowly the camouflage peeled away, revealing a massive airship floating through the afternoon sky. “Here we are, right out in the open for ya, Cipher. Dock with Receptacle Four.”

“Roger.” The Switchblade decelerated rapidly, extending its unique wings to full length. Cipher rolled the plane over to its right, right in behind the refueling basket in the wind. Cipher pressed another button in the cockpit. Two long, narrow doors opened on the nose and a refueling probe folded out through the newly formed opening.

Cipher gently maneuvered the probe into the basket. Upon contact, he could here fuel rushing down the rubber pipe deep into the bowels of the plane to its fuel tank. There was a slight lapse, then the stream shut off with a final flush.

“You’re all fueled up and good to go,” stated Altmann. “But can I inquire as to why you are flying home? This is like the first time you’ve flown home in a while.”

“I bet you anything I do will be on the news in the next couple days while be pasted all over every TV show in Aerkusto.”

“Nuh, I heard that someone paid off the paparazzi so they wouldn’t bother you. Would this reason be something important? Something personal?”

“I don’t really want to talk bout it, but I guess you could say that.” Cipher banked a hard right and pulled away from the Megafloat. He pushed the throttle forward, returning the Switchblade to its before cruising speed of 600 knots. The wings refolded in, and the vertical stabilizers folded down, giving the Switchblade the appearance of a flying arrowhead.

______________________________________________________________________

And now the Prologue for The Covenant War:

Prologue

The seven foot tall, mottled blue alien, known as an Elite, stalked through the lightly crowded corridors. His red armor was form-fit, and almost looked as if it was his skin. About every eight inches along his armor were twinkling shield emitters. Small pulses of energy flowed through the shield.

As Zuka ‘Zamamee, as he was known, reached the command bridge deep in the center of the cruiser, he reached his hand and placed it firmly on the identification panel. He winced as he felt the needle drive into his finger and take a tissue sample. The door chimed as access was confirmed. He slowing walked onto the bridge, snapping his mandibles at the air, distressed about how many times he had been called here and how many times he’d been stabbed.

On the far end of the bridge, on a central elevated platform was another Elite named Soha ‘Rolamee. This one in particular was clad in gold armor. He had his arms crossed behind his back and stared at the bleakness of space through one of the hologram panels.

“Your excellency,” spoke up ‘Zamamee. “We have word from the Prophets.”

“What is the will of the Prophets?” asked ‘Rolamee as he turned around to face the lower class Elite. ‘Zamamee slowly approached his superior and looked at a star chart. He stretched out his long finger and pointed at a lone planet.

“The will of the Prophets is to invade and conquer this planet, here. The Prophets think that they will be beneficial and want us to absorb this race of aliens into the Covenant. Also, they directly threaten our supply ships heading for High Charity.”

“What is this planet known as?”

“The inhabitants know it as… Tamaran.”

Atoragon

02-12-2007, 03:04 AM

Okay guys, here's how it goes. Today, well actually yesterday (its like 12:01AM here) I passed my soccer referee re-certifacation and upgrade test:D , so as a celebration, I pounded out the rest of Ep. 08. One note: If the dynamics of the date are all screwed up, ignore it. I have never been on a real date in my life, so I have no idea how the things go. Let me guess, you're all yelling "Blasphemy!" cause I'm 17 and have no girlfriend. I'm getting off topic:o . So here you go:

The Switchblade touched down at Valais AFB on the outskirts of town. The rubber wheels skidded against the concrete runway, leaving long streaks of black against the light gray. The airbrake along the dorsal spine flashed open, jolting the aircraft into a steep deceleration. Halfway along the runway, the plane turned right onto one of the many taxiways. It slowed to a halt right outside hangar three, the one closest to the control room.

As soon as the plane ground to a halt, there was a flurry of action around it. Technicians began work on maintenance and refueling the fighter. The cockpit popped it seal and ascended upwards. Before Cipher even knew what was happening, there was a ladder slapped against the side of the plane and frantic crewmen were ripping him from the plane.

“What the hell?!” he demanded to the nearest crewmember.

“Oh, s***,” stammered the flustered crewman. He slowly stumbled backwards away from Cipher, rambling incoherent things to himself. “Sir? You may want to see who we pulled from the plane.” A middle aged man jogged up to the flustered man. He was clearly the man in charge, being the only man with a rank higher than private. He stopped next to the man and took one look at Cipher. The look that newly adorned his face was identical to the other man’s.

“Holy Oracle, my sincerest apologies,” he was barely able to make out. “If we had known you were flying in, we would have…”

“Don’t worry bout it, sergeant,” replied Cipher as he shook off the explanation. “But do keep in mind that I can have you wiped off the face of the Earth if you show me such disrespect again, understood?”

“Perfectly, Holy Oracle.” The sergeant gave a small bow.

“Good. I need a car to get into town. Can you get me one?”

“Of course, right this way.” The two of them walked towards the main control room. The sergeant kept of giving Cipher a weird glance, but he shook it off. He was expecting it, seeing how he was nowhere near his normal dress.

The twin glass doors to the Control Center silently hissed open as the two males approached. The entire interior was whitewashed, giving it the appearance of an asylum, but the occupants were by no means insane. Valais Air Force Base was one of those places with intellect flowing out its ears, due to the immense amount of weapon research done at the facility.

After a brief walk, the two men turned right, coming upon a desk like one of those you see at the check-in desks at hotels. Hung from the ceiling above was a sign that prominently stated ‘Motor Pool’.

“Ensign, I need you to retrieve my car for the Oracle,” ordered the sergeant as he stopped in front of the desk.

“Yes, sergeant!” replied the ensign. He snapped a salute so quickly, he could have broken his hand against his forehead. Snatching up a set of keys from the rack, he rushed out of the back door of the room. After a few minutes of eerie silence, the ensign returned, sweat dripping down his face.

“Your vehicle is parked out front. Here are you keys,” he stammered as he held out the keys in an open palm. The sergeant plucked them from his grasp and handed them to Cipher.

“Please take my car as a symbol of apology for mine and my crew’s actions today. We are all most humbly sorry. Please forgive us.”

“I will, thank you,” replied Cipher as he took the keys. He proceeded back down the hallway until he passed through a similar set of sliding doors. A few feet beyond the door was a long, sleek, maroon coupe, clearly of Aerkustan design.

Aerkustan’s are extremely proud of their technology. So much so, that it is nearly taboo to own anything wasn’t designed, tested and manufactured in Aerkusto. Foreign markets are pretty much dead and the possibility of finding a pizza parlor in the phone book is slim to none.

It was a peaceful drive through the country into the town. The orange of the sunset sun shone through the breaks in the rolling hills. Various birds were chirping in the cherry blossom encrusted trees that lined the two-lane highway.

The two-lane rural highway morphed to a four-lane boulevard as it entered the town. For the capital and largest city in a country, the streets of Oured seemed unusually peaceful and uninhabited. A bare minimum of vehicles occupied the streets as Cipher made his way through the usually bustling downtown sector.

After a quick left, Cipher came upon his destination. The Veisse Organa. This establish was located on the top floor of Oured’s only 5-star hotel. First impressions are said to be deceiving, but not here. As Cipher entered, the place screamed fancy, and it sure as hell was. Pure oak moulds lined the room. Only the finest cotton tablecloths adorned the table. The silverware was pure silver instead of the cheap alloys used by others.

“Ah, Holy Oracle,” commented the host. “Do you have a reservation? Or should I kick someone out for you?”

“I have a reservation. There’s no need to kick someone out this time,” replied Cipher quietly.

He was trying desperately to attract as little attention as possible. Before he left for the United States, he found it near impossible to go anywhere without people asking for autographs or what was the will of Spirnak. It had gotten so annoying, he accepted the mission to find the Oracle of Ralivar without second thought. He now slightly regretted his decision because of the homesickness being in Oured brought up in his soul.

“May I inquire under what name?” asked the host, snapping Cipher free of his memories.

“Yeah, it should be under ‘Koriand’r’.”

“Lets see. Koriand’r… Koriand’r… Koriand’r…” the host murmured to himself as he traced his finger down the line of names. “Ah, yes, here we go. ‘Koriand’r’ for seven p.m. You still have ten minutes, would you like to be seated now or wait until then?”

“I’ll be seated now, thank you.”

“Very well.” Cipher trailed the hosts winding path through the forest of tables until they came upon one near the back, next to a window overlooking the cityscape. Amongst the now ever setting sun, the office buildings looked like pillars of diamonds shining in the orange turning purple glow.

“You know, I should write a book,” mused Cipher to himself. “100 Ways to Destroy Beast Boy. Hmm… that should be interesting.” Eight hours alone flying can cause you imagination to run rampant. Cipher had thought about a thousand ways to destroy Beast Boy, but he knew no one, except maybe Raven, would sit through all one thousand.

Cipher was jarred out of his daydream by the sound of a girl clearing her throat. He slowly turned a peered over his right shoulder to look at her. Neck length violet hair. Pale skin. Large, indigo eyes. A red chakra stone in the shape of a diamond was set in her forehead. He recognized her almost immediately.

Raven.

“So, you’re the other one Beast Boy tricked into this blind date thing, huh?” asked Cipher casually.

“I guess you could say that,” replied Raven nonchalantly. Her normal cloak and leotard had been discarded for ankle-length, sleeveless dress of jet-black silk. Cipher stared, Raven stared back.

Five minutes later…

“This awkward silence is so interesting, dontcha think?” asked Cipher in attempt to break the silence, his voice rank with sarcasm. To tell the truth, he had been too nervous to say anything else up until then. Back in Jump, under normal ‘work’ conditions, Raven was easy to talk to if she wasn’t in one of her ‘I’ll kill you if you utter a sound’ moods, but now, it was just so…

“Sure is,” replied Raven in a similar sarcasm. “You know, I’ve been wondering. Why in hell did Beast Boy set this thing up here in Aerkusto? I mean, he could have very well done it back in Jump at a place that a lot cheaper.”

“That is something only the grass stain knows. I bet it’s a reason so stupid, well be smackin’ him and ourselves for we…” Cipher instantly froze and stopped talking. He expression instantly changed from that of casual and laid back to extremely focused.

“What?”

“Shush.”

“What is it?” asked Raven, now in a very quiet whisper.

“You here that?”

“…No…” Cipher leaned closer and whispered in Raven’s ear.

“I’ll be right back,” he said. His voice was barely audible. It was quite clear he wanted no one except Raven to hear. Slowly, he slid his chair back. Standing, he quietly walked towards a set of ruffled curtains in the corner of the room. Raven craned her neck around to see where he was going, but had a pretty bad view. Cipher slid in behind the curtains. Raven turned back and stared at the setting in front of her. What ever in hell it was, Cipher had noticed and she had not. ‘Why?’ she thought to herself. ‘Why could Cipher sense something I couldn’t? My psychic powers should have been able to pick up whatever it was, so why could it? Was my vision clouded? Why would it be? Is it by... love?’

Raven thoughts were rudely interrupted by a large crash. She reopened her clenched eyes to see, not the table setting, but a man’s body. He had been hap-hazardly thrown across the room and crashed into the table herself and Cipher had been seated at. The table had now collapsed and silverware and glass was spread everywhere.

The man was in no way special. He looked to be in his mid 20’s. Light brown hair. About 5’10” tall. It wasn’t necessarily the man that piqued Raven’s interest, it was what he was holding. Clenched in his right hand was a small object. A video camera.

“Well, Rae,” stated Cipher as he came walking up, brushing his hands together. “It seems we weren’t alone.”

“Is he… dead?”

“You should know that answer better than me, Rae. But I sincerely doubt it. He’s most likely unconscious. This bastard here was video taping our little get together. I found something on him you may want to see.”

Cipher extended out his right hand in front of Raven. In his fist, he held a business card. He opened his fist to an open, face-up palm so Raven could take it easily. She picked up from his hand and read.

“Mrs. Fields Cookies? What the hell?”

“Read the back.” On the back of the card was scribbled a name and a number. Raven didn’t bother with the number, but the name. The name was familiar, very familiar. It was the name of…

“Beast Boy”

“Yeah. I’m guessing the little grass stain set this entire thing up to videotape us and then put it up on TV. Since we’re at a fancy-ass restaurant in another country, citizens of Jump would have thought this would be extremely serious. When confronted about it, we’d be embarrassed beyond reason. It would have been one of Beast Boy’s greatest practical jokes ever if I hadn’t heard the very faint hum of the video camera.”

“Okay, now I’m really going to kill him.”

“Come on. Let’s go home before we get asked to leave. Besides, we need to think of how to strike back.”

End Episode 08

Atoragon

02-14-2007, 03:07 AM

It just hit me like a slippery fish that way back when "Oh Look I'm..." said this looked like an Ace Combat crossover. I said he was full of ****, but I guess I was wrong. The amount of Ace Combat I've played recently is off the charts, so, the idea that came to my head was something similar to Ace Combat. Last episode, I said I had to get the Suviekasuvarten an appearance before its replacement, the Night Raven, came into the story. Well, this episode is the Night Raven's grand entrance.

Episode 09: Shattered Skies

“So, have you gotten back at that Beast Boy yet?” asked the low growl from inside Cipher’s mind. Cipher, himself, sat on his bed in a relative cross-legged position. His eyes were closed and had a very casual expression on his face.

“Nah. Not yet,” he mumbled. “Raven or I’ll think of something eventually. We just can’t think of something on the same level of embarrassment. You know, something that would be just as devastating to him as it would have been against us."

“Thought of anything yet?”

“Raven, get the hell out of my head.”

“I’ll take that as a no.”

“What have I told you about invading Cipher’s mind?”

“Well, Spirnak, I’m not actually in his mind per se. I’m merely speaking with him telepathically. Anyway, you would want to anger Ralivar for destroying his Oracle, would you?”

“Foolish girl, I destroyed Ralivar. Are you too thick to remember?”

“That’s why I originally contact you two. I have received psychic contact from a being claiming to be Ralivar. He also says that the one you destroyed, my father Trigon, was his son. The being claimed to be my grandfather.”

“Hmm… It does seem remotely possible. I shall check this out.”

“You do that, Spirnak,” mumbled Cipher sleepily. “Guess its tea time, Rae.”

“Who says you’re getting any of my tea?”

“You know what I mean, Rae. Breakfast time.”

“The others wont be up for another hour, though.”

“That gives you an hour to practice cooking.”

“Damn.”

+++++

Cipher held his face level with the table, with his nose at the level of the counter. He carefully reached out with his fork and poked the stack of “pancakes”. No hissing, no explosions, no rock hard exteriors. They had passed the first test. Again carefully, Cipher cut out a small piece and placed it in his mouth. He chewed exasperatingly slow and had his eyes slow. No running to the bathroom. Pass test two. Cipher finally swallowed, stood up and looked at Raven.

“Very good, my young padawan,” he said in a faux Yoda voice. “While not perfect, it is still edible. You have graduated to chef apprentice.” Cipher gave a slight bow and held a spatula in his open hand out in front of him. Raven gingerly picked up the wooden spatula of Cyborg’s.

“Umm… thanks? No more Star Wars for you,” chided Raven, waving the spatula in front of her like a teacher’s ruler. Cipher straightened up and chuckled, just to have the spatula snapped over his head. Just then, the others entered the room, talking among themselves.

“Booyah! I smell pancakes!” declared Cyborg as strode through the twin sliding doors. “Umm… did you guys switch positions when you heard me coming?”

“Now why would you say that?” inquired Cipher. He gave Cyborg as skeptical look.

“Uhh… the food smells good and looks edible, yet Rae is standing in front of the stove. Last time Rae cooked… I can’t even think about that.”

“My young padawan… Ow!!! What the hell, Raven?!”

“Didn’t I say no more Stars Wars for you? So cut it with the ‘young padawan’ ****,” scolded Raven, shaking the half of spatula in front of her again.

“Fine. Raven cooked. It’s actually not half bad.”

“Uhh,” stuttered Cyborg. “I remember I have to go wax the T-Car! Be back in a bit.”

“Oh no you don’t!” yelled Cipher as he chased down the now fleeing Cyborg.

“Cyborg, it can’t be that bad,” said Robin as he stepped in front of Cyborg’s path. Cyborg slid to a stop to keep himself from plowing over the team leader. He stopped a mere inch from the tip of Robin’s nose.

“Yeah, man,” added Cipher who had stopped his pursuit seeing Robin step in. “I’m not complaining about how bad it is, I’m not hurling, and I’m certainly not dead, so it can’t be as bad as before. And you said it yourself, the food smells good.”

“Well, yeah, but…”

“No ‘buts’, just eating.”

+++++

“See, Cyborg? It wasn’t that bad, was it?” asked Cipher.

“Actually, no. It was pretty good.” A loud wail of klaxons filled the living rooms. Pulses of red light swirled around the living room.

“Titans, Trouble!” yelled Robin as he ran to the computer.

“Dude, if I had a nickel every time you said that, I’d be a millionaire,” whined Beast Boy.

“Beast Boy, can it.”

“So… what’s the problem Rob?” asked Cyborg.

“Deep space sensors have picked up a target approaching at high speeds.”

“Do ya think it’s a meteor?”

“No, it has a FOF tag. The problem is, its saying foe.”

“ETA?”

“I’d give it bout two minutes. Cyborg, see if you can hack into its central computer and see what it wants.”

“Right.” Robin stepped aside, allowing Cyborg to get to the computer. His hands were a flash of motion as he typed a flurry of commands and protocols. “I’m in. Uhh, Rob? You may want to see this.”

“What is it?”

“The ship belongs to Val-Yor.” The was a “hmmph” from Starfire at the mention of his name. “Looks like he wants revenge.”

“Fuel up the T-Ship. Looks like we’re going to have a dogfight on our hands.”

Oh look I'm...

02-14-2007, 01:53 PM

It seems like everyone dislikes something about fanfictions. Glensather dislikes OC's, Matt A dislikes fictional countries and I dislike Raven having illegitimate children.Huh, Cipher and I actually have something in common: our dislikes.:evil: It just hit me like a slippery fish that way back when "Oh Look I'm..." said this looked like an Ace Combat crossover. I said he was full of ****, but I guess I was wrong.Never doubt the Jack.
http://images.rca.org/images/perspectives/2006/JackBauer.jpg

Atoragon

02-14-2007, 06:09 PM

Never doubt the Jack.

I'll doubt you whenever I please, but for this episode I take back this not being Ace Combat.

I will add next bit of story in an hour or two

<EDIT>

So its nout an hour later and I'm am fulfilling my promise. Here is the second half of Shattered Skies.

“System Check,” ordered Robin.

“Oxygen tanks at maximum.”

“Defensive armaments on standby.”

“Sonic cannons, full charge.”

“Twin turbine engines purring like a kitty.”

“Good job, Titans. We’ll try to intercept Val-Yor at 10,000 ft. Do not fire until fired upon. Tit… wait, where’s Cipher?”

“Right here, Rob,” crackled Cipher’s voice over the radio. “I have some work to do. I’ll catch up with you guys when I’m done. Besides, there are six of us and five seats in the T-Ship. Don’t think there’s any real room for me.”

“Fine. Don’t take too long. Titans, launch!” The twin engines of the T-Ship tilted down and roared as thrust was increased. The T-Ship lifted off vertically into the sky and turned ninety degrees until it faced west. The engines straightened out and the T-Ship climbed at an angle of forty-five degrees.

The T-Ship continued to climb to 10,000 ft, then leveled off. It flew lazy circles above Jump City, looking for any sign of Val-Yor’s craft. There was a glint of silver as the enemy craft became visible. Flying at a high rate of speed, the craft nearly skewered the T-Ship right through the middle.

“Hello there Troqqies, prepared to die?” crackled the voice of Val-Yor over the radio. He wheeled around to face the T-Ship.

“Titans, separate!” ordered Robin. Creases formed along the T-Ship. The ship broke apart into its five ‘children’ craft and flew off in separate directions, Robin heading directly for Val-Yor. Robin’s sonic cannon pulsed and fired. The beam washed over the nose armor of Val-Yor’s craft, but inflicted minimal damage. He was stunned at his weapon’s ineffectiveness. He banked left quickly to avoid running head long into the alien ship.

Val-Yor gave chase to the fleeing craft, but Beast Boy was right behind him. In Beast Boy’s shot, the weapon had a similar effect. There were very minor scorch marks where the beam had hit, but other than that, no damage was left.

As Beast Boy banked away off of his attack run, Val-Yor made a hard right, bringing himself right in behind the green teen. The lasers on his craft erupted with light. Twin beams streaked towards Beast Boy’s craft. Beast Boy desperately tried to evade the incoming beams, but he was too late. The right of the beams sheared through the engine and left rear wing of his now free-falling craft.

“Mayday! Mayday! I’m going down!” yelled Beast Boy frantically into the radio. He fumbled for the seal to his canopy. He pulled the lever and change into an eagle all in one swift motion, clearing the falling craft right before it exploded in a rain of shrapnel and fire.

Starfire wheeled her ship around to face Val-Yor. She gunned the engines, speeding up and bringing her right up behind him and released a hail of sonic cannon fire. Each beam bounced harmlessly off his armor, but it did get his attention.

Val-Yor reached down and pressed a button in his cockpit. The tip of his tail opened, revealing a laser turret. The turret unleashed a hellish hailstorm of pulse laser fire. The laser fire ripped through Starfire right wing, putting her craft in a deadly spin.

Starfire gave a powerful kick to the glass, knocking it clear off. She flew out of the falling craft and face Val-Yor’s oncoming ship. Emerald energy coalesced in her hands.

“Starfire, don’t do what I think you’re going to do,” warned Robin. “You’re no match for that spaceship. Get back to the Tower and meet up with Beast Boy.” Despite Starfire’s complete displeasure with Robin’s orders, she did comply. Unbeknownst to Robin, while he was worrying about his girlfriend, Val-Yor had snuck up behind him. Val-Yor fired. The twin lasers decimated Robin’s craft, leaving nothing but smoldering metal.

But miraculously, he had escaped. Although he was badly scarred, he had managed to get his parachute open and was now landing safely on the top of Titans Tower. This left only Cyborg and Raven to combat the seemingly undamaged ship of Val-Yor.

“Titans, disengage. I repeat, disengage,” crackled a familiar voice over the radio.

“Cipher? Is that you?” queried Cyborg. “It’s about damn time you showed up.”

“Yeah, its me. Now listen, there’s going to be one helluva explosion, and if you don’t want to be turned into so many pieces of stale confetti, I suggest you get out of the immediate airspace.”

“Roger.” Raven and Cyborg pulled off their attack run and headed west, back towards Jump City. To the north, a lone Night Raven deactivated its Digital Optical Camouflage (DOS). A weapons bay to the right of the centerline opened up, revealing a long, slender missile. The missile was dropped and lit its engines. It streaked off towards the unsuspecting ship of Val-Yor’s.

The single wisp of white entrails soared through the morning sky. It homed in on its target, Val-Yor’s ship, until its proximity detonator. The entire sky lit up as the missile exploded. A massive shock wave shook the entire bay area, making citizen’s believe there was an earthquake.

“Woohoohoo! My Long-Range Shockwave Missile works like a charm!” cheered Cipher.

“So is that what you’ve been working on all this time?” asked Cyborg.

“Well, yeah, and my baby here.”

“I say we go to the parlor of pizza to celebrate our victory!” squealed Starfire.

+++++

“Meat again?!”

“Beast Boy, give it up,” moaned Raven. “By the way, Cipher, I think the waitress was checking you out.”

“Hmm. You really think so? She did seem a little short to me though.”

“Cipher, I think everyone is a little short for you.”

“Like you?”

“Are you calling me short?!”

“Well, yeah, compared to me. You’re like, what? Five-eight? And I’m like six-four, six-five."

“You’re so going to get it now!”

End Episode 09

Atoragon

02-15-2007, 02:36 AM

Here is the beginning of Ep. 10. Its bout time I got to the set up for the final battles, so that i've done.

Episode 10: Grand Introductions

“Master Slade, Moguera, complete with upgrades, has been bought here by your instructions.”

“Good. Bring him to me.” Wintergreen gave a small bow and turned to leave Slade’s lair. Within a few minutes, he returned, Moguera right on his heels. Moguera was barely recognizable. Aesthetics along his head were now more prominent. His dorsal spines had had their size greatly reduced. He was now painted a dark, dull gray with a fluorescent orange ‘S’ painted on his forehead.

“Master Slade, here is Moguera.”

“Moguera, you’re upgrades were a success?”

“Yes.”

“I need to ask you a few questions.”

“Ask away.”

“What weaknesses have been corrected?”

“Armor shields have been added to arms, making the plasma swords harder to disable and refinements have been made to the micro-oxygen reactor, reducing risks of overload.”

“Any new weaponry?”

“Yes, much. Detachable pulse laser units that attach to my forearms. Percussion wave projectors that form fields around my fists, effectively doubling punching power. Shoulder mounted Tactical Lasers like those I stole from my ex-master. The tip third of my tail has been replaced with a large drill appendage. Finally, there is “Gorouda”. Before you ask, no. I will not tell you what “Gorouda” is. Only I am allowed to know.”

“Very well. Final question. Who do you serve?”

“Slade.”

+++++

“You guys are all probably wondering how I, Cipher, took out big, bad Val-Yor. Your questions are now going to be answered. The X-02 Nachrallis.” Cipher ripped off the tarp covering the experimental plane. A mix of ooh’s an ahh’s came from the onlooking Titans.

“Whoa.”

“Cool.”

“Umm, dude? Where’s the window?”

“That’s a good question Beast Boy. See those orange panels? They function similar to radar crossed with a camera. They create a virtual image projected on the inside of the cockpit. That way you have a three-hundred-sixty degrees view without anything blocking your view.”

“I understood pretty much none of that, but okay.”

“Well, man. Sounds like you can join us in flight as soon as I get the T-Ship rebuilt.”

“That won’t be necessary.”

“Huh?” Cipher walked past the group on Titans. He flipped the second light switch, turning on the rest of the lights in the workshop. The Titans were shocked at the sight of six more Nachrallises, previously in the dark, lined up next to the first.

“I built one for every Titan. The seventh is going to be sent back to Aerkusto as a prototype for the Air Force. Before you ask why, I knew, eventually, the T-Ship would be destroyed by far superior enemies. We need to be at the peak of technology to be our most effective.”

“You’re replacing the T-Ship?!”

“Not completely. It can keep it designation as the T-Sub. I took the liberty of giving each a custom paint job, if no one minds.”

“I don’t mind, it’s just… hard to say good bye. It has been our main form of transportation fro the last three years.”

“True, but most people buy a new car every three years. The Nachrallis will grow on you. Okay, Cyborg, you’re the silver/blue one. Beast Boy, the collage of greens. Starfire, the pink and orange. Robin, the red. Raven, the navy/violet/black.”

+++++

Paintjobs (Focus on the paint, not what its on)

Raven:
http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o13/Cipher1112/Morgan.jpg

Cyborg:
http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o13/Cipher1112/adf-01falken.gif

Robin:
http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o13/Cipher1112/adf-01falken.png

Cipher (figured he could have the same paint as his Suviekasuvarten before):
http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o13/Cipher1112/X-02.png

I was unable to find pictures of anything close to the paint for BB and Star... sorry

Atoragon

02-15-2007, 07:53 PM

Next bit, though pretty small.:sad: Figured i'd get up to right before the battle starts. keep y'all on the edge of your seats.:shrug:

“Moguera, I have your first assignment.”

“What is it, master?”

“I want you to go cause some havoc. Get the Titans attention. Engage them in battle, but do not destroy them. We’re going to save that for later.”

“Yes, master.”

+++++

“Everybody in his or her seat?”

“Yeah, umm, dude? There is a helluva lot of buttons.”

“Beast Boy, don’t touch anything yet. I don’t want you to accidentally blow the Tower to hell.”

“Can’t have that,” added Cyborg. “By the way, what’s the weaponry on these things?”

“Standard on all craft are twin 30 mm cannons and 4 all-purpose missiles. In terms of additional weaponry, the production version will carry XMAAs* or LASMs*. Ours will carry a compliment of Tactical Lasers, Long-Range Shockwave Missiles, and, if Cyborg complies, Sonic Cannons. Additionally, Aerkustan scientists are working on a scaled down version on the Shock Cannon that could be fixed to the Nachrallises. But keep in mind, the LSWMs* and Shock Cannons are going to be used sparingly. Most of the time, I will be the only one carrying any, if at all.”

“Jeez, man. This thing has enough guns to fight a small war.”

“That’s the…” Cipher was cut off by the blare of the warming klaxons.

“Titans, to the lounge!” ordered Robin.

+++++

“By the gods… I don’t believe it… Moguera”

Notes:
The abbreviations are Ace Combat lingo, so I'll decipher it for you.
-XMAAs* = "Advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles" Ex: AIM-120 AMRAAM, BAE Sky Flash
-LASMs* = "Long-range ait-to-ship missile" Ex: AGM-84 Harpoon
-LSWMs* = "Long-range Shockwave Missile"

Matt A

02-17-2007, 08:45 AM

You know, it's kinda ironic. Just when I get back to uni, and life starts being insanely busy again, you decide to lay out three different things for me to review. Your timing is impeccable.:p

Still, seeing as I have a lot to talk about, and not much time to say it all in, I shall just have to give you the basics of what I'm thinking. To whit:

1. Ending of "Blind Date"
Beast Boy really can be an arse, can't he? Secretly arranging a date between two of his friends, not to to play cupid, but just to spring a prank on them...well, even for him, that's really quite demented. On the other hand, the prank in question is absolute class, so I can forgive him. Especially 'cause everyone else won't...:evil:

The other interesting bit was seeing exactly what Cipher's position really is. In Aerkusto, he's beyond even mere royalty, and around his "subjects", he acts accordingly. Considering how he's usually a laid-back kinda guy, it's fascinating to see this colder aspect to his persona.:D

2. "Shattered Skies"
This one...I'm not sure what to make of. Val-Yor returns to Earth to kill some "Troqqies", the Titans have a little dogfight, Cipher blows him up with a big missile in the nick of time, everyone goes out for pizza...and that's pretty much it. The dogfight was a fun little sequence, especially considering how rarely they're done and how bloody hard they are to write, but this felt a little too much like filler for my liking. I mean, aside from his usual xenophobia, Val-Yor doesn't even seem to have a reason for kicking it all off.

But I'm not saying this story was crap. What was you gave us was pretty good, and certainly worth reading...there just needed to be more of it.:shrug:

3. Opening of "Grand Introductions"
You know, it's about time the Titans got some new gear. Six topper than top-of-the-range jet fighters, each with enough guns to rip the Earth a new one, is certainly what I call an upgrade. In fact, it's closer to what I call a wet dream.:p It's going to be fun seeing the Night Ravens in action, I can tell you that much...:D:evil:

Oh yes, and then there's Moguera. Or rather, Moguera Mk2, the bad-ass version. I can't wait to see what his "Gorouda" weapon is, especially considering what this walking armoury can talk about. I can't wait to see this upcoming reunion of his.;)

So, that's all from me. There's good stuff, there's not so good stuff, but either way, you've yet to stop keeping my interest. I'm excited to see what else you can come up with.:D

-Matt A-

Atoragon

02-18-2007, 12:17 AM

Glad to see I havent scared ya off, Matt. I dont really know is "Shattered Skies" is a filler or not. I guess it was a reason for me to get the Night Raven in the story. And yeah, I realized after the fact of writing "Shattered Skies" that Val-Yor didnt really have a reason to go troq hunting. Truthfully, I still dont.

Atoragon

02-18-2007, 11:20 PM

Here's the next bit. Kinda short cause I've been playing TagForce all weekend and my sis has been hogging the network cable. She can be eviler than Trigon himself if she wants to.

“Why in hell did we come if that pit-sniffing bucket of bolts gets to have all the fun?” complained Gizmo.

“We’re merely messengers. Our only job is to report back to Slade on how well Moguera destroyed the Titans,” replied Seemore. Gizmo shot a glare at Moguera who they were following.

“It’s Kiryu now, got it?” corrected Moguera.

“Huh?”

“I will no longer go by the name given to me by my former master. My new name is Kiryu.” Moguera, now Kiryu, continued on a few steps before stopping. “Yes, this looks like a perfect spot to destroy the Teen Titans. Gizmo, have Gorouda on standby. I want the final strike to be overkill.”

“Scum buffing toe jam eati-“

“You say something?!” Kiryu’s plasma sword erupted to life, it’s tip less than an inch from Gizmo’s nose.

“Uhh… uhh… no, sir…” whimpered Gizmo.

“Good. I want Gorouda on standby… and go get a new pair of pants.” Gizmo scurried away to who knows where, leaving Kiryu and Seemore standing in the alley. “Now all we need to do is cause enough chaos to alert the Titans.”

“Well, it looks like you did a pretty good job at it Moguera, or I guess its Kiryu now, isn’t it?” commented Robin from behind the pair. Around him were the other five Titans. Kiryu slowly turned to face them.

“This certainly does make my job a whole lot easier.”

“Wait, rewind,” stammered Beast Boy. “Kiryu? What the?”

“If my memory serves me correctly,” replied Starfire. “Kiryu is Japanese for Metal Dragon.”

“The name certainly fits,” commented Cipher as he glared upon his creation. “So, let me guess. Fix-It was actually working for Slade. He gave you a new look and rewrote your control protocol, making you take orders from Slade.”

“You would be correct. My orders are clear. Destroy the Teen Titans.”

“Then it looks like we have no choice…”

“Titans, GO!”

Atoragon

02-20-2007, 11:57 PM

Behold the rest of Ep. 10. I dont know why I put it off so much, but its finally here. Hope you enjoy.
______

Apparently some people don’t immediately grasp the concept of ‘nearly impenetrable’. If these people were organized into a clan and had to choose a single leader, it would be Robin by unanimous vote. This leader of the clan, it seemed, would never grasp the concept. He swung his bo staff tirelessly at Kiryu, but he barely flinched with each impact. In fact, it didn’t even seem if Kiryu had noticed it at all.

After what seemed like an eternity, Kiryu finally noticed the relentless pounding from the bo staff. On Robin’s next swing, he caught the staff as if it were a feather. Try as he might, Robin could not dislodge the staff from the mech’s iron grip.

Kiryu spun around 180*, bringing his back to Robin. Swinging the staff like a tennis player swings their racket, he launched Robin down the street. Robin impacted a parked hatchback. The hood collapsed and the windshield shattered, sending hundreds of glass shards impaling into his back. Starfire, noticing Robin, rushed to his aid.

“Robin! You are okay, yes?” she asked as she slid to a stop.

“I should be fine, Star. Go and help the others.” Despite contradicting her motherly instincts, Starfire left Robin after getting him off the car and raced towards the fight between the other Titans and the now fully attentive Kiryu.

+++++

“Azarath, Metrion, ZINTHOS!”

Several cars parked along the side of the thoroughfare became enveloped in black, anti-matter energy. One at a time, they were hurled down the street at Kiryu. The first two merely bounced off the braced Kiryu, but the third hit him squarely in the back as he turned around to face the charging Starfire. He was knocked clear off his feet and to the ground, the car sitting on top of him.

Kiryu kicked the car off himself. He was clearly enraged by the, what he thought, cheap shot. The large arm units began to hum with energy. He brought his arm level with Raven and the units let loose a staccato of laser fire. Raven managed to dodge the death storm, somewhat. A stray shot struck her in the shoulder, causing her to wince in pain. Although the laser burn was not a major injury, it still stung like hell.

Starfire, Cyborg and Cipher took this chance to launch a tri-attack. Starbolts, sonic beams and lightning bolts created a hellhole of explosions in the center where Kiryu stood. They stopped in unison and watched the smoke clear.

“Did we get him?” asked Cyborg.

“I don’t know. Maybe,” replied Cipher.

“Look!” exclaimed Starfire. In the parting smoke and dust, movement could be seen. Slowly, Kiryu marched out of the epicenter into the clear air. A few lucky shots had destroyed the arm units and scarred his armor, but otherwise, he was unharmed.

“You Titans are really starting to annoy me,” he stated. The panels on his shoulders tilted out. Small energy projectors came into view. There was a flash of light as a beam of super-fine blue-white light lanced out from the energy projectors.

The Titans scattered in all directions. The twin lances struck the pavement where they stood, spewing chunks of asphalt into the air. With bits still raining down on him, Robin turned back towards Kiryu and hurled three explosive discs. The beams lanced out again, slicing the discs apart. Cyborg rushed in while Kiryu had his back turned. He released a roundhouse punch that hit Kiryu’s right shoulder.

The projector exploded in sparks. Cyborg attempted to go for the second cannon with another roundhouse, but was struck by a quick jab by Kiryu. The punch was surprisingly powerful, severely denting Cyborg chest armor and sent him flying into a nearby building. The building shook as if it were hit with a mortar shell.

Raven had levitated in close to Kiryu. She enveloped him in black energy and hurled him down the street. He collided with a passing fuel truck; knocking it clear over and causing it catch fire. The truck suddenly exploded in a hellish fireball. Kiryu, again, walked out of the epicenter. Patches of oil stuck to his exterior were still on fire, giving him the appearance of a flame demon.

Kiryu lit up his rockets and charged headlong into the Titans. His gave a straight punch right into Robin’s sternum. The cartilage was instantly shattered as Robin was knocked back off his feet. He slowly slid to a stop, not moving and barely breathing.

Beast Boy changed into a tyrannosaurus and roared. He ran at Kiryu, his jaw wide open, ready to bite. He bit onto Kiryu’s midsection and lifted him off the ground. Beast Boy thrashed Kiryu around violently like a rag doll. Suddenly, he stopped thrashing because of Kiryu’s tail jabbed into the side of his mouth. He dropped the mech and the green dinosaur began to wheeze.

After a quick lapse, Beast Boy charged again. Kiryu was ready and waiting this time, though. As Beast Boy lunged, Kiryu caught the two halves of the massive jaws. Kiryu whipped his arms apart, snapping the tyrannosaurus’s jaw. He threw Beast Boy aside and continued on. Beast Boy lay on his side, bleeding from his mouth, still as a dinosaur.

“Azarath, Metrion, Zin-Urgh!” Raven was thrown into a car as a Maser beam struck her dead in the chest. She groaned in pain and was unable to move as she was slouched against the car. The material of her leotard, while fireproof, was still smoldering, proving the power of the electrical weapon mounted in Kiryu’s mouth.

“I’m surprised,” mused Kiryu. “I would have expected a little more of a challenge from the legendary Teen Titans. Am I correct to guess that it was all hype? You outnumber me 6-to-1 and still can’t cause more than minor damage. I am disappointed. I would kill you all right now, but orders from Slade tell me to make you suffer as long as possible. Pity.” With that, Kiryu turned on the Titans and stalked down the street. He never looked back.

End Episode 10

Matt A

02-21-2007, 11:19 AM

Atoragon

02-21-2007, 06:58 PM

[raised eyebrow smilie]

Okay then. Moguera was hardcore, near-unbeatable even, but Kiryu...this "Metal Dragon" is a monster. I mean, Mega-Rebot v2.0 is just insane. Taking out all six Titans in about three minutes, without even breaking out your bigger guns, is really quite something, especially when you do this just to prove a point. This really isn't going to end well, is it?:eek:

you shall be surprised, i guarantee it;)

On a more mundane level, the actual fight was pretty cool. I would've liked it to be a bit more detailed, but we got a good enough sense of the devastation as is...and besides, keeping it brief ties into how quickly Kiryu beat everyone. Though there was one big problem: you forgot to say how Cipher and Starfire were defeted.;)

hmm:shrug: ... i mean... umm... you could say that they werent defeated quite like that... oh crap, you're right...

Still, that oversight aside, this was a cool return for Moguera/Kiryu. I'm excited to see how much further you take this.:D

-Matt A-

yes, i am too. hopefully the next and season finale episode should be out in about 2-3 days.

before anyone says anything, i know teen titan seasons are 13 episodes long, but i hold the right as entilted to me in the united states constitution to be different and make this season 11 episodes.

RavensDragon

02-26-2007, 04:45 PM

Hey, I was gone for a while...WOW! That is really good! Nice job!!!:raven:

Atoragon

02-26-2007, 06:15 PM

Oh my god, that sucked.:mad:

In what way?

Hey, I was gone for a while...WOW! That is really good! Nice job!!!:raven:

Good to see that your back. I thought you had died there for a moment.

Atoragon

02-27-2007, 01:10 AM

So we have come to this. The final fight between Moguera/Kiryu and the Titans. The title of this episode comes from an ancient legend in AC5 and I felt that it would be appropriate. If you decipher what may happen in the future of this episdoe from the information in the legend, please do not spoil it for the other readers.

Episode 11: Razgriz

Amidst the eternal waves of time
From a ripple of change shall the storm rise
Out of the abyss peer the eyes of a demon
Behold the Razgriz, its wings of black sheath

The demon soars through dark skies
Fear and death trail in the shadow beneath
Until men united wield a hollowed saber
In final reckoning, the beast is slain

As the demon sleeps, man turns on man
His own blood and madness soon cover the Earth
From the depths of despair awaken the Razgriz
Its raven wings ablaze in majestic light

-Ancient Aerkustan legend

Whitewash walls. That is all you saw in every direction. All was quiet except for the gentle beep of the heart monitors. Six medical cots lay in a nice row along the wall across from the door. Four of these were occupied.

“Excuse me, Starfire,” said Cipher. “I cannot operate on Robin if you are clamped on to his arm. I’m afraid to say you’ll have to let go for the time being.”

Starfire slowly turned to look at Cipher with sad eyes. She was met with a similar expression. The solemn mood in Titans Tower remained unchanged for the last 24 hours. Cipher and Starfire had managed to patch up the other Titans’ wounds, save Robin who was being tended to currently.

“I’m sorry you have to go through this, Star,” muttered Cipher.

“I will endure what I must as long as Robin is safe. I would spend an eternity of muck shoveling on the swamp moons of Drenthax 4 if that’s what it took.”

“Scalpel. If muck shoveling on Dren-whatever is really bad, then I applaud your fortitude. I’ve been awake for 24 hours straight at least performing surgeries and such and I intend to continue staying awake until you’re all patched up, but the dedication you have to Robin is something stronger than anything I have ever encountered or could produce. Stitches.”

“Here.” Starfire dropped a needle and thread in Cipher’s out held hand. Slowly, the hole in Robin’s chest created for the surgery was sewn up. The final procedure was complete for the time being.

“Done.”

“How long until Robin and the others are well?”

“Robin and Beast Boy I’d give a few weeks to a month. Raven should be done quicker than them because she holds the ability to heel herself. Cyborg should be up in a few minutes, seeing it was just computer components that were damaged.” Cipher snatched up a rag and began to wipe Robin’s blood of his hands.

“But what are we to do if the Kiryu attacks before they are healed?”

“We’re going to pray that he doesn’t, and if he does, fight to the end. If we lose, they’ll be nothing apart from nuclear or shockwave weapons that could stop him.” Cipher silently passed out of the infirmary, leaving Starfire standing alone in the middle of the floor. The silence minus heart monitors returned.

+++++

Three weeks later…

“Dthudes! I canth sthpeak stwaight!”

“Beast Boy, unless you want me to re-pin your jaw again, your going to stop talking so much and stop complaining about what little speech you have,” scolded Cipher.

“Buth!”

“No buts. Shut up.”

“Aww…”

“Are you deaf? Shut up. Or do you want me to pin your mouth shut along with pinning your jaw together?”

That had seemed to shut Beast Boy up for the time being. All he had done since getting out of the medication-induced coma was complain about the pain and inability of speech. This was no problem for the rest of the Titans, though, because the amount and volume of the noises coming from his mouth were considerably less than before.

The extremely rare moment of silence was broken by the loud blare of the warning klaxon. Red strobe lights spun around the large room. There was a collective groan among the Titans. Robin slowly approached the console and typed in a few commands.

“It’s him,” he stammered.

“Let’s go get him! I’m not going to sit here while he destroys everything we fight to protect!” declared Cipher. A collective nod came from Starfire and Cyborg.

“Beast Boy, you stay here. You’re in no condition to fight. The rest of us, Titans, GO!”

+++++

“Perfect. The Titans are on their way and heading straight for their demise. This should be fun,” Kiryu mused to himself. “They didn’t put up much of a fight last time we fought. I wonder how much of a fight they’ll put up this time?”

“More of one than you can imagine,” interrupted Robin. Kiryu turned around to face the Titans.

“No green one? I guess I’ll just take care of him when you’re all smoldering ashes.” The plasma swords on Kiryu’s arm sparked to life. They hissed and crackled like a vat of angry cobras. The light given off cast harsh shadows and blinding patches of light on the surrounding buildings. “So, tell me Titans. Have you ever wondered what it is like to be carved up like a Christmas ham?”

Matt A

03-02-2007, 07:17 PM

Now this is interesting. One thing that Teen Titans very rarely did was show the Titans with serious injuries ("Fractured" and "Haunted" are the only examples I can think of at the moment). It was a kid's show, so this is perhaps understandable, but either way, that's not my point. My point is that seeing all six Titans get hospitalised is unheard of, even in 99% of fan-fics, which usually don't have kid's shows in mind.

Ergo, because he alone was capable of this, we know Kiryu is one extremely bad bastard. 'Course, we knew that before, but this here is a grade-A way to state it. In fact, I really don't see how he can get beat, especially by a team that's one man down and still recovering from the last battle.:eek:

That, I think, just about covers my thoughts at this early stage. It's going to be very interesting to see how you resolve this crisis.:D

-Matt A-

Atoragon

03-03-2007, 08:48 PM

And in there lies the answer, Matt.
In fact, I really don't see how he can get beat, especially by a team that's one man down and still recovering from the last battle.:eek:

As I said, I think you shall be surprised. That is, unless you read the legend in the spoiler tags and have alreay deciphered the end of this all... or you possess mind reading abilities.

Atoragon

03-04-2007, 05:56 PM

next bit. yes, it is supposed to go exactly as written (as in speed of battle and such).

A sound reminiscent of a clap of thunder rang through the deserted street. Kiryu wrenched his plasma sword free of a now decimated small hatchback. The Titans had narrowly escaped his first charge, but he promised himself that they would not escape the second.

“So, Kiryu,” mocked Cyborg. “Is it Christmas ham or runaway turkey?”

“You’re going to regret those words,” he retorted. Kiryu’s rockets flickered to life. He flew at Cyborg with tremendous speed, he right arm cocked back to strike. Cyborg sidestepped in an attempt to dodge, but the new, temporary parts were nowhere near as fast as his usual. The plasma sword sliced through his left elbow and most of his torso. His top half fell to the ground, leaving his legs teetering in place before falling over on top of him.

“Cyborg!” cried Robin. He rushed to his fallen comrades side, but before he could get there, was intercepted by the much faster Kiryu. Kiryu delivered a straight jab to Robin’s chest. The blow, similar to the one that broke Robin’s sternum, sent him flying backwards into a nearby light post.

The stitches had been ripped open. Blood pooled underneath Robin’s limp form. The injuries to the weak and healing bones were far more extensive. Nearly Robin’s entire frontal rib cage had been shattered.

Starfire looked on in horror at what Kiryu had done to Robin. Tears began to flow from her emerald flaming eyes. She seethed with anger towards this opponent. She regarded Kiryu to be far worse than any klorbag varblernelk. She floated up into the air, about ten feet off the ground, and let off a hellish barrage of starbolts towards Kiryu. Kiryu shield himself as the hail of emerald discs of energy rained down upon the Earth.

“It seems we have a fighting one, here,” Kiryu commented coolly as he stared up at Starfire. Unbeknownst to the Titans, a hypersonic frequency emanated from Kiryu body. Even Cyborg, if was operational, probably would not have picked this up, but one thing did. High up in the clouds, Gorouda banked hard left and dived down on its master.

Kiryu and Starfire’s staring match went on for what seemed like an eternity. Neither moved, just stared. Cipher and Raven dare not get in either’s way. What territory of Starfire’s Kiryu had tread upon could mean certain death for anyone else that stood between her and her prey.

Starfire frantically tried to think of a plan. Kiryu was playing with her, and she knew it. What was he waiting for? He doesn’t just stand there and wait; at least he didn’t when we fought him before.

Starfire’s question were soon answered as an unknown object flew by her mere feet away. The flying-wing aircraft looking object circled around Kiryu before stopping in a hover directly above his head. The craft tilted nose-up and its two massive cannons rotated forward. It slowly descended until it was directly behind Kiryu, a few inches from his back. Docking ports on Kiryu’s back and Gorouda’s underbelly linked and the two mechs became one.

“It seems I finally get to pull out the big guns,” mused Kiryu. “Allow me to introduce you to Gorouda, and its two neutron cannons. Quite remarkable really. Gorouda gives me control of my second most powerful weapon, after the Absolute Zero Cannon and the ability of actual flight. Now the real fun begins.”

The twin barrels arched upwards until they pointed directly at Starfire. They began to glow and then exploded into twin beams of white light. The beams lanced towards Starfire and struck her right in the chest, hurling her back into a billboard. The superstructure of the billboard creaked from the impacted before falling off of its perch on a building onto the street below, Starfire pinned underneath.

“And then there were two,” sneered Kiryu as he turned to face the awestruck Cipher and Raven. “Your friends were way too easy to beat. Maybe you two will actually provide some entertainment and put up a real fight.”

“Raven.”

“Yeah?”

“It’s time.”

Matt A

03-06-2007, 05:25 PM

So, it appears that the Titans' method of beating Kiryu is...well, to just get their butts kicked, again. Whatever Raven and Cipher have planned, it probably doesn't involve Cyborg, Robin and Starfire getting a second battering, so I get the nasty feeling that they won't be having much luck.:eek::sweat:

As for the fight itself, I'd say it was probably one of your best. Things were kept brief enough for us to feel the speed of it all, but there was also enough detail for us to feel every bone-crushing blow that was landed. You read all that stuff, and you just go, "oww...". That's ain't to be sniffed at.:D

Plus, we finally get to see Gorouda. I'm not entirely sure what I was expecting it to be, but I don't think my visions were of something that hardcore. A flying-wing that becomes a mech attachment that becomes an everything-killing plasma gun...well, that's just nuts.:eek::D

And now, we just have to see how this not insignificant crisis gets resolved. Try not to leave us in suspence too long, would you?;)

-Matt A-

Atoragon

03-06-2007, 07:28 PM

I will try not to keep you in suspense too long.;) I'm about 2/3's of the way through the next segment of the fight. I should have it up tonight or tomorrow, depending on how many tedious little tasks me mum has lined up for me.

Atoragon

03-06-2007, 11:58 PM

So, next bit for y'all. Little shorter than what I would have wanted, but it gets into the thick of the battle and sets it up for the final part.

The twin clouds of swirling energy that enveloped the street soon dissipated. Visions that only had been seen in one’s mind took the stage. The Archangels of Light and Dark stood poised, ready to fight.

“That’s a new trick,” began Kiryu, “but I doubt it will make a difference. In this ‘Archangel Mode’ you may be your most powerful, but your resistance is still futile. I will crush you all the same.”

“Is that true?” retorted Cipher. His voice was remnant of that of Spirnak’s. “Then why don’t you come and fight us?”

“Maybe I will.” Kiryu lit up the rockets on Gorouda. Flying a foot off the ground, he charged headlong into the Archangel of Light. Cipher smirked at this daring assault. Kiryu pulled his plasma sword back and swung…

Just to have it collide with a pair of electron swords. Kiryu’s momentum came to a dead stop with the collision. The two swords pushed against each other, but neither gave way. Kiryu settled back down on the ground.

“Go! Help the others! I keep Kiryu occupied!” called Cipher to Raven.

“Just don’t finish him off before I get back,” she replied. The three downed Titans became enveloped in shadows. Four portals opened, taking the Titans back to the Tower’s infirmary, leaving Cipher and Kiryu in a deadlock.

“It’s just you and me now, master,” smirked Kiryu.

“For maybe two minutes.”

“Until your girlfriend gets back. Then I’ll destroy the both of you.”

“She’s not my girlfriend!”

“Right,” replied Kiryu, his voice rank with sarcasm.

In a rage, Cipher pulled his swords back and gave a straight kick to Kiryu’s chest. Kiryu staggered back from the blow, but remained upright. He regained his composure and looked up, just to have a roundhouse kick smack him in the side of the head. Kiryu was sent sprawling across the ground and came to a stop some feet away.

Kiryu slowly rose to his feet. The once pearly shine of his armor had faded, replaced by rows of scratches. This battle was going to be harder than he anticipated. To make matters worse for Kiryu, Raven had returned and was filled with the anger of her fallen comrades.

Gorouda’s rockets lit to life once again. Kiryu charged into the small group, plasma swords blazing. The two armored teens dodged remarkably quickly, Raven to the sky and Cipher to the side. Kiryu wheeled around and swung out with his concussion fist at Cipher. Cipher rolled under the punch and turned around to strike Kiryu in the back, but when he turned around, Kiryu was nowhere to be seen.

“You see where he went?” inquired Cipher.

“No. Its as if he vanished into thin air,” replied Raven. The two Titans looked around their surroundings, but there was no sign of the mech. Unbeknownst to the Titans, and to everyone in that matter, except Slade and Kiryu himself, Kiryu had stolen blueprints for a slipspace generator. Now, Kiryu was literally floating in between the weaves of the space-time continuum, waiting for the perfect time and place to strike. And when that time arose, that’s what he did. Strike.

A faint wormhole opened directly behind Raven. Kiryu silently came out of the wormhole and positioned himself a few feet from Raven’s back. The drill tip of Kiryu’s tail began to whir around like a blender. At this point, Raven had noticed the doom that loomed behind her, but it was too late. Even with the enhance speed of the Archangel, she could not dodge when Kiryu lashed out with his mighty tail.

Raven was hit square in the chest, knocking the air out of her. She was launched backwards into a nearby hotel. Her armored body pummeled through sets of rooms, until she crashed into the front desk, ten floors down and on the other end of the hotel.

Raven slowly rose from the shattered desk. Spreading her wings, she shook herself violently to get the splinters off. Guests gasped in horror at her condition as she trudged out of the front door. Multiple plates of armor along her body were heavily cracked. Blood could be seen oozing from the cracks, giving her jet-black armor a maroon tint.

______________________________________________________________

Ya know, I imagined This piece (http://www.acecombat.jp/ace-zero/index.htm) playing in the backround during this fight. Click "World", then "Sounds" and choose track 2 to get to it from the link. The website is a little funky and likes everything on their site to have the same url, so sorry I cant get you directly to it.

Atoragon

03-08-2007, 12:28 AM

Okay, more fighting for y'all to... enjoy.:shrug:

Cipher wasn’t fairing much better. Now that Kiryu had shown off his slipspace generator, he was using it constantly. Every time he even got close, Kiryu just warped away, then reappeared from behind to attack.

“Kiryu, we have a change of plans,” crackled Slade’s voice over Kiryu’s internal radio.

“What may I ask is the change?”

“Sergei wants the two alive, so I need you to lead Cipher and Raven to Justi-Break’s lair. Can your slipspace generator keep the portal open long enough for them to follow?”

“I will have to bypass a reactor lock, but it should be rather easy. Expect a present dropped in your lap in five.”

“Good.” The channel snapped off. Kiryu pondered on how to lure the Titans into the slipspace portal. They would be skeptical on venturing through a portal that ‘magically’ appears in front of them, or would they? They are pretty worked up about the other Titans being injured. This is my chance; I just need to grab it.

The reactor lock shut off, allowing for maximum power output. Kiryu generated a portal behind. The semi-transparent vortex swirled with energy from the reactor. As if with perfect timing, Raven reappeared next to Cipher who was just getting up from the last blow. The two looked like a bloody mess. The once shine of sapphire and obsidian had been covered over with a thick layer of dark blood.

“Farewell, Titans! You may have won this round, but I’ll get you next time!” called Kiryu.

“Oh, no you don’t!”

Perfect. Kiryu walked through the portal, Cipher hot on his tail, Raven a ways back.

+++++

The portal opened in a vast, dark room. Kiryu flew out and hid in the shadows. Shortly after Cipher had fallen through the portal with a thud on the floor. Raven came a few seconds later, falling onto the crumpled mess that was Cipher.

“Rae, get off.”

“Such nice way to speak to your teammate,” Raven snorted in response. She pushed herself off; making sure Cipher got dug into the concrete floor. Cipher stood up soon afterwards. The two surveyed the dark room with no luck.

“Ya see anything?”

“No, just dar…” Raven was cut off as multiple ceiling mounted snapped to life. Illuminating the Titans… and everyone else in the room.

“Oh, ****.”

“It looks like every villain in our history has teamed up…”

“That means we’re out numbered like 1000 to 1. Not good.”

“If you count Slade’s robots and the HIVE minions, it would be 693 to 2,” sneered Kiryu.

“Dammit, Kiryu. You always have a knack for correcting me, dontcha?”

“Precision is key, master.”

“Oh, shut it. Raven… lets get him.”

“Rig…” Raven fell to the floor, captured in a net, before she could finish. Cipher, also, a few moments later. They struggled as much as they could, but surprisingly couldn’t break free.

“Don’t even try, you two,” stated Slade as he approached the fallen Titans. Closely behind him was Sergei and two of his minions wielding net guns that looked more like rocket launchers than they probably should.

“Those cables are a composite of Kevlar and titanium,” continued Slade. “Both heat resistant and nearly unbreakable. They’re also laced with dylithium crystalline fibers to channel all your powers away without harming the cables. These are inescapable. I doubt even Spirnak could break free. Throw them in the cell. Kiryu, guard them.”

"Yes, Master Slade."

Oh look I'm...

03-08-2007, 02:44 PM

You know, the funky names really get to a person after a while.:sweat: Since I'm not in touch with all the details of ACZ, I'm not sure which are references and which aren't, if any. The action, however, is something to marvel at on occasion. Cipher's attitude toward Kiryu make me think there might be something deeper there, but as of now, it's all speculation.;) :anime: :p

EDIT: I had another brain fart--"attutyde" and I forgot "think". Not one of my better moments.:o

Atoragon

03-08-2007, 06:14 PM

Well, actually, I've been trying to keep this an ACZ-free zone. And in "something deeper" thingidamajigger... it's sort of like how it would be if your own son turned against you. That's what happened, to an extent. Cipher built Moguera (now Kiryu) with his own two hands. How would you feel?

Oh, and did anyone catch the easter egg?

Matt A

03-09-2007, 07:38 AM

Now this is interesting. The mysterious Sergei finally reappears, and with him come his own designs on Cipher and Raven. Seeing as they're two of the fabled Prophets, and we already know that Sergei has a vested interest in anything Prophet-related, I can take a rough stab as to what his plan is...but, frankly, that's not why I'm surprised. "Season X", up 'till now, has used a primarily Moguera/Kiryu arc, and after an early intro that appeared to set him up as the Big Bad, Sergei has taken a very obvious back seat to our robotic turncoat: ergo, bringing Kiryu and Sergei together, especially so abruptly, is quite an interesting move.:)

And the way this move was brought about was quite snazzy as well. Kiryu's "slipspace generator" is a cool tough, making an already harcdcore fighting machine even more deadly: this is arguably overkill, but if you want to create an unbeatable opponent, then you might has well have everything. And, for a time at least, he was finally given a challenge by the Archangels, or close enough to one to still count as a success. The Archangels were another cool idea, as like I (kinda) noted above, Cipher and Raven haven't really done much with their Prophet aspects as of late (well, aside from the whole of Aerkusto bowing and scraping before Cipher in "Blind Date", but I'm not sure that counts). It would've been nice to see more of their magical upgrade (so to speak), but then again, the whole point of Kiryu seems to be that physical violence won't work against him, so I guess the Archangels couldn't have done too much. Still, what is there was fun to read.:D

Well, that's all from me. All I need to do is sit and wait, until you resolve this not insignificant crisis. And try to remain patient...;)

-Matt A-

PS: No, I didn't catch the easter egg. Didn't even know there was one.:sad:

Atoragon

03-09-2007, 10:26 AM

Since no one caught the easyer egg, here it is

“Those cables are a composite of Kevlar and titanium,” continued Slade. “Both heat resistant and nearly unbreakable. They’re also laced with dylithium crystalline fibers to channel all your powers away without harming the cables. These are inescapable. I doubt even Spirnak could break free. Throw them in the cell. Kiryu, guard them.”

Dylithium crystals are used in Star Trek to store the matter and anti-matter for the warp engines. They are well known for their abilities to channel energy without any harm to the surrrounding area.

Thak you for your patience. I know exactly how I want to end this, its just putting those thought into words, which is really hard for me. "Season X" will be finite later today or tomorrow.

Oh look I'm...

03-09-2007, 06:32 PM

And in "something deeper" thingidamajigger... it's sort of like how it would be if your own son turned against you.Yeah, that's sort of what I thought. As to how I'd "feel", I suppose there's no other way to react.;) Oh, and did anyone catch the easter egg?

Dylithium crystals are used in Star Trek to store the matter and anti-matter for the warp engines.Considering that I'm none too savvy in Star Trek lore, I didn't catch that either.:sad:

Oh, and I think I forgot to mention something. Is it me, or are you purposefully making this story more hardcore than ever?:anime: Seriously! With all the converging subplots, bitter rivalries and hatreds left and right, wickedly new technology that can both amaze and terrify, and one dude who's trying to get on top of it all for the World's sake...!:eek: There's hardly a dull moment, but don't make me go lookin' for one.:p

Atoragon

03-09-2007, 08:28 PM

THIS POST IS NOT WORTH READING. SKIP IT AND GO TO THE REVISED VERSION LATER ON.

This is it. After this "Teen Titans X: Season 1" will be done. I'll explain the correlation between this episode and the legend on a later post.

Three days later…

“Rations,” stated a guard as he slid a pair of plates of mush towards the two captives. Cipher walked over, picked up one of the plate and hurled it at guard. The guard was hit smack in the face with plate. The plate slid off, leaving what “food” was on the plate all over his face. The guard wiped the “food” off his face with his hand, gave the two a dirty look, then stalked off.

“You know, you’re going to have to eat sometime,” said Raven. She stared disdainfully at the “food” that lay in her lap.

“I’d rather die than be a pawn in one of Slade and Sergei’s plans,” replied Cipher. “Why don’t they just do to us whatever they have planned and get it over with?”

Raven just stared into his eyes, trying to think of a response. The sound of heavy footfalls shattered the silence. Probably Slade thought Cipher, but he was somewhat surprised to see Kiryu. The Gorouda unit had been removed, giving him a more “friendly” appearance.

“Master?” he queried.

“What do you want now, Kiryu? To torture us? To force feed us more of this garbage you call food?”

“No. I… I… wish to be forgiven.”

“What?! After what you put us through, you want to be forgiven?!”

“Master… a routine scan disk last night apparently deleted the command override Fix-It wrote into my central command core. I am no longer Kiryu. That part of me is gone.”

“How are we to believe you?”

“By letting me release you.”

“And how are we supposed to trust you,” spoke up Raven.

“I don’t expect you the believe me or trust me.”

“I’ll trust you for now,” replied Cipher, “but so much as the slightest double-crossing and I will not hesitate to go Spirnak on your ass. I don’t care how many civilians get caught in the crossfire.”

“I understand. Follow me.” Moguera unlocked the door and led the two through the maze that was Justi-Break’s GHQ. After what seemed like hours and going around in circles infinite times, Moguera finally paused just before an intersection.

“This is where our paths separate, master,” he said solemnly. “To the right is the way out. I’m going to end this reign of terror by Justi-Break now.”

“Are you crazy?!” protested Cipher. “I doubt the two of us in Archangel Mode and you could take all them out!”

“Master… when you first introduced me to the Titans, you said I would find my purpose. I have found it. It is to save you two from Justi-Break. You would have given in or died eventually. I have set my micro-oxygen reactor to go critical. I expect meltdown in 5 minutes. The resulting explosion will wipe this facility and every one in it off the face of the map.”

“But…”

“No. Now go. I know this is hard for you, but only one has to die to end this. That person is going to be me.”

It had taken Cipher a moment, but he finally agreed. He and Raven ran as fast as they could through the door. The brilliant light of the morning sun blinded them as they emerged in the forests on the northern edge of town. Raven created a disc of black underneath them and flew up into he air. When over the bay, they dared to turn around and look. The mountain seemed quite peaceful, but not for long.

The explosion seemed to start slow before bursting outwards in a sphere of pure light with a tinge of purple. The light was so blinding, it seemed as if there was a second sun on the Earth. The skies boiled with energy, then finally dissipated.

“Whoa… that left a crater as big as those on the moon,” commented Cipher. “I bet you every citizen in Jump thinks World War 3 just started from that explosion.”

“I wouldn’t blame them.”

+++++

Five months later…

“I now officially hate everything about the press,” complained Cipher. He slumped down on the couch next to Raven and stared out the window at the bay. He had just finished was seemed like the hundredth press conference about the destruction of Justi-Break and Moguera.

“Come on, dude, lighten up,” said Cyborg. “Besides, you were the one who volunteered.”

“Because I built Moguera and he was my responsibility. No one else should have.”

“I agree with Cyborg on that you should do the lightening up,” added Starfire. “It is Christmas once again and it is a time of happiness, not anger.”

“Pffft, you’ve just made my day that much worse, Starfire.”

“Sorry… umm, what is that above your head?”

“Huh? Dammit Beast Boy! Com…”

“No, its fine.” Raven reached over and…

_________________________________________________
Now it's all over. I will now accept your flood of questions if you have any. For a contiuation of the series, see Teen Titans: The Covenant War (http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?p=2446025#post2446025).

Matt A

03-10-2007, 06:34 PM

I was trying to think of a nice way to say this. But seeing as I can't, I shall just be blunt:

Well, that were crap.

Actually, it wasn't that bad. Concept-wise, you had something pretty respectable here: Moguera renouncing his Kiryu aspect, and proving himself to his sceptical former friends by sacrificing his life. Okay, so Teen Titans has been there before - I believe the climax of the Terra arc worked the same way - but redemption storylines are always effective. I can't really pin down why, but there's something about that idea that always touches.

It's a pity, then, that what could've been great was so completely bungled. And I can give you the exact reason why: it was way too short. This was the culmination of eleven different stories, your entire epic project, a tale of love, loss, heroism, villainy, revenge and redemption...and you gave it only one chapter. Cipher and Raven needed to struggle for their victory, to win over Moguera through their intelligence, bravery and virtue: instead, you had him turned back to the Light side through pure fluke, and rescuing our heroes without any significant struggle. You were right to have Cipher and Raven not trust him, and I'll also give you points for Moguera semi-convincing them through humility, but need at least two-three chapters of our heroes trying to fight back first. You know, for this win to be earned.

Oh yes, and here's another thing: you brought back Sergei in the previous chapter, and all the emotional/thematic baggage that goes with him, and then don't address this. Okay, so "Season X" was about Moguera, not Sergei, but you don't introduce Cipher's life-long nemesis (not to mention a founding member of Justi-Break: ridiculous name, by the way) and not have him play a part in the finale. And besides, there was a really dramatic trick you missed here: Sergei has a big and diabolical plan for the Titans, one that rests on Moguera not being rescued from his Kiryu self. If you'd brought both of these villains and their according issues together, then you'd have had a really cracking tie-up of the series.

But you didn't, so we don't have that.

If the above sounds like I'm going on a rant, then don't worry, 'cause I wasn't. It's simply that, as a Finale, I'd expected quite a lot from this chapter, and I'm pretty dissapointed by what you offered up. I don't want to say that maybe I was expecting too much, 'cause that implies you aren't capable, and such an accusation simply isn't true.

And just so all this doesn't feel like quite such a kick in the nuts, here's one thing I can be positive about: the coda. One thing Teen Titans never really did was examine the relationship between the Titans and their public, so every time someone adresses that issue, as you did with Cipher's five months of press conferences, I can't help but smile. It shows real intelligence to add in that dimension. Also, given all the hints thus far, it was cool for you to do something with the Cipher/Raven relationship in the final lines. Whilst a kiss is fairly heavily implied, the cut-out means that we have to fill in that detail ourselves, and it's always fun to use a little imagination and interpretation.

So, whilst this chapter wasn't entirely without value, it still fell a long ways short of what all the build-up needed it to be. I think we can best chalk this one up as a cautionary lesson for next time.

-Matt A-

Atoragon

03-10-2007, 07:54 PM

Yeah, I kinda realized all this after the fact. I just ran out of ideas, you could say. This last bit was entirely crap. I might as well do as I planned and write an alternate ending, just make it the real one and sort of exclude the previous, crappy one.

While I like the fact that there was some part of the finale that you liked Matt, if you really hated it that much, you might as well left out the one positive note. In the words of Sorcerer 1: "Apply full thrust. Don't even think about turning back." This is the mantra I try to live by and want people to respond to me with. If you wanted to state it was bad, you should have gone with all-out blow to the nuts, not cushioning the blow by stating the one good point. My feelings are damn near impossible to hurt, so I would not be offended by anything you could have said.

This is nothing against you, its against me for putting you through this hell I called a finale.

Atoragon

03-10-2007, 09:25 PM

As you may concur, the original ending for Season X was bollocks, so I am doing a complete re-do. There will be an extra episode or two and storylines will be rethought. So, here is the rest of Ep. 11: Razgriz (a bit shorter than before).

Three days later…

“Rations,” stated a guard as he slid a pair of plates of mush towards the two captives. Cipher groaned at the guard’s attempt to feed them again. He pushed the plate away with his foot. The plate clattered against the wall, joining the other 20 some odd plates of uneaten rations. The guard shook his head in disgust before walking off. It seemed it would be impossible to make the captives eat.

“They don’t really get it, do they?” snorted Cipher. He sat against the far wall staring at the stall door, as he had for the last three days.

“They’re probably just as stubborn as Robin,” replied Raven. “They won’t stop until they have their way.” The two sat in silence until that silence was broken by the sound of footsteps. Unlike the metal clang of the steel-soled guards or Kiryu that normally came to pester them, they sounded softer, more like leather scuffing.

Appearing in front of the cell door was Sergei. He seemed generally over whelmed, yet saddened at the same time. The small smile that adorned his face seemed to portray mixed emotions.

“Cipher, Raven,” he began. “How are my two best assassins doing?”

“We’re not your assassins now, and never will be,” Raven spat.

“Are you so sure?” queried Sergei. “Now, tell me why you haven’t been eating. Is it because you don’t want to go back with Uncle Sergei back to Russia? Or is the food just plain unacceptable? I can have better rations provided for you, if you want.”

“He just doesn’t get it, does he, Rae?” mused Cipher. “I think you’re right. He is just as stubborn as Robin.”

“That smart mouth of yours is going to get you killed one day, Cipher,” scolded Sergei. “You might as well eat and get some sleep. The submarine that will take us home will be here in two days. If you aren’t cooperative, I might just have to kill you.”

“Sure you will,” mocked Raven. “What will Putan say if you killed us?”

“Who said I have to go home? I could jut very well stay here in Jump City causing all the chaos I want along side Slade.” And with that, Sergei stalked off to who knows where.
_________________________________________________________________

Expect Episode 12: Day of Reckoning to be out in a day or two.

Atoragon

03-11-2007, 09:11 PM

This here is the first part of the new finale for this since, as I stated before, the original was crap.

Episode 12: Day of Reckoning

“This is your day of reckoning, you two,” began Sergei. He stood in front of the cell in which Cipher and Raven had been locked in once again.

“Make your decision,” he continued. “Will you join me or continue to be uncooperative with me?”

“Like we’ve been saying for the last four days,” replied Cipher. “We would rather die than join you as assassins.”

“Then I’m sorry I have to do this. Your fates have been determined. Guards, grab them.” On command, the four guards that stood behind Sergei swept into the room and wrenched the two captives to the feet, who were in no way cooperative.

The two were led through a maze of corridors. The musty smell of the underground complex was overwhelming at times. They were shoved through one last set of doubles doors into a large, coliseum-sized room. That very same room that they had crashed into Justi-Break’s headquarters four days prior. This time though, the room seems a lot emptier, most likely because they were not expecting an arrival of two of the Teen Titans on this day.

The two captives were led to a pair of pillars in the center of the room. Their hands were chained to cables that spanned to the top of the pillars. The guards hooked them up and left, probably leaving them to say some final words.

“Ya know,” commented Cipher. “This reminds me of that part in Star Wars Episode 2 where the three are chained to pillars just like this. I could be like Obi Wan Kenobi and you can be Padamé.”

“Oh, god,” moaned Raven. “I told you, you have been watching too much Star Wars! We’re about to ****ing die, and all you can ****ing do is ****ing relate our ****ing situation to a ****ing movie! We were most likely left hear alone so you could say something like you ****ing love me or something, but no, it has to be about ****ing Star Wars!”

Raven was by now seething with anger. Her face turned from its normal gray to a shade of hot pink. If she had no control of her inner demon, it would have most definitely come out then and there. She refused to speak or even look at Cipher from that point on. Most of it was out of her anger, but a small part of it was because she was embarrassed because she said the dreaded “L-word”.

Knowing Raven, she would have probably already undone the lock, attacked Cipher and gotten the hell out of Justi-Break’s lair if it weren’t for the neural inhibitor. This thing had been strapped to her head and she was unable to get it off in all her attempts. It was Sergei’s way of saying that they were going to get out of there his way or not at all, at least alive in that case.

The twin doors at the end of the room creaked open. A double-file line of every Justi-Break member filed through. At the head of the column was Slade and Sergei, looking quite pleased with themselves. The column came to a stop a few feet from the two Titans.

“I bring you good news, Titans,” began Slade. “I am feeling a need for bit of entertainment.” Slade turned his attention away form the two and yelled down the column. “Master of Games, report!”

“Yes, Slade,” responded the Master of Games.

“Allot us to a suitable arena. We’re about to have a little fun.”

“Right away, Master Slade.” The room became enveloped in light, as the congregation was teleported away. The congregation appeared in the center of a large coliseum. Cipher and Raven were no longer bound by chains, but were surrounded by the members of Justi-Break.

The coliseum was a massive complex. The diameter of the central arena had to be at least a mile across. The grandstands rose up fifty rows on all sides. They were currently unoccupied. The ground was plain ole dirt as far as the eye could see. No bumps. No obstacles. Nothing. It was probably the only plot of land flatter than Kansas.

This barren wasteland didn’t exactly upset the Titans, especially Cipher. He knew that with this wide-open space he could release his most powerful form, Spirnak. But he also knew, that even with Spirnak, he would be in the fight of his life.

+++++

Titans Tower…

“Yo, BB!” yelled Cyborg from his hospital cot. “You wanna turn on the tube?”

“Ugh, why me?” complained Beast Boy.

“‘Cause you’re the only one out of us that can walk that’s here.” Beast Boy sulked over to the TV, grumbling all the way. He pressed the power switch. A wrestling match that Cyborg had wanted to see flicked onto the screen.

“Dude, you have any idea where Rae and Cipher are?”

“No clue.”

“I betcha that they kicked Kiryu’s ass, then went to Aruba to celebrate.”

“Man, if they went to Aruba without me, there’s definitely going to be some heads banged together.”

“Besides,” added Robin. “They don’t seem like the kind to go partying or celebrating. They’re the two least social of the team.”

“Yeah. We should just stop worrying about them. They’re fine.”

“Are you so sure?” asked a fifth voice. Static filled the TV screen. Slowly, Slade’s face came into focus. “Cipher and Raven are about to fight for their life. I thought it would be nice to show you then getting slaughtered. Don’t bother changing the channel or turning off the TV. Have a nice show.”

+++++

Coliseum…

“Oh, ****. We’re screwed.”

“It’s about time you got the picture.”

“Titans,” spoke up Sergei. “If you’re not to be busy talking amongst yourselves, I’d like to make a proposal. Since you have proven yourselves most uncooperative, we’ll do a little battle to determine your fate. If you two can defeat all of Justi-Break, you’re free to go. If you’re knocked unconscious, you will be brainwashed into being assassins like I originally planned. And if you die, well, you’re dead. There is no other option… except maybe being teleported into the emptiness of space.”

“Then I guess we have no choice…”

Oh look I'm...

03-12-2007, 10:25 AM

Y'know, I'm at a pretty odd place right now. When I first read the "original finale," I was in a rather critical mood, and I had this whole ramble planned, but out of sheer chance, I lost the review. Normally, I'd be bummed that I lost nearly two hours of written critique, but today I'm not: since Matt pretty much said what I was going to rant about anyway. He really did a number on your chapter, that's for sure. Now, with my evil review lost and Matt taken the reins to new depths, I suppose there's no point to me screaming like a lunatic as well (not that Matt was screaming like a lunatic, mind you; I was just in a weirdly screaming mood when I first read the finale).

However, I do have some things to say. ;) One of the more positive remarks I had lined up concerned the last lines of the first finale: "Aww, I guess after everything he'd been through, Cipher deserved that little smooch." A lot of Raven/OC stories I come across are usually a rehash of the same thing, and I rarely see anything truly different, which typically results in me being abdominally appalled by romantic moments in such a relationship, but I didn't feel half-bad about yours. I suppose that, in and of itself, is its own congratulations. Point being, it was sweet, and not sweet in the sense of "Oh, please," but from a feel of truly genuine charm between the characters. Uh, does that make any sense at all? Huh. I didn't think so.:sad:

The following concerns the fic as a whole, rather than just the first or second finale. Anyhooz, I suppose what I'm about to say next might be considered "stating the obvious," but I'll go ahead and say it anyway. Like any diehard fan, you incorporate a variety of allusions to other stuff you find interesting (i.e. ACZ and Star Wars, among others), and this is not a bad thing—heck, I've done it before, too. The weird thing is that you either outright state these allusions in the text or utterly deny having any affiliation with them, probably because you might be terrified of accusations of plagiarism.

I'm here to say that I will make no such accusations—I have before to other works, though, and your story doesn't fall into such context, in my opinion. As I stated in one of my first posts of this story, I totally support the allusions you presented: even Cipher's name was one, and I found that cool too. Granted, there are probably some people out there who think that any thing with any corollary to any prewritten work constitutes as plagiarism and thus won't hold back in thwacking you left and right, but you won't have to fear that from me. I, for one, know where you're coming from.

As such, even Raven herself gets irritated with your use of allusions after Cipher points out the coincidental similarity between their situation—I'm referring now to the second finale—and the Geonosian Arena, but was that really necessary? Raven's massive spasm of spitting out cuss words left and right was vastly shocking. There's no other way to put it. However, considering the overall milieu of the story and the events of such, I suppose that an utter maelstrom of f-bombs was appropriately OOC for her. As of now, I can't help but smile, for reasons I'd rather not say. :p :evil:

Atoragon

03-12-2007, 12:46 PM

Y'know, I'm at a pretty odd place right now. When I first read the "original finale," I was in a rather critical mood, and I had this whole ramble planned, but out of sheer chance, I lost the review. Normally, I'd be bummed that I lost nearly two hours of written critique, but today I'm not: since Matt pretty much said what I was going to rant about anyway. He really did a number on your chapter, that's for sure. Now, with my evil review lost and Matt taken the reins to new depths, I suppose there's no point to me screaming like a lunatic as well (not that Matt was screaming like a lunatic, mind you; I was just in a weirdly screaming mood when I first read the finale). Ya know, after hearing Matt's ranting, I was just waiting for yours and probably some other random persons.

However, I do have some things to say. ;) One of the more positive remarks I had lined up concerned the last lines of the first finale: "Aww, I guess after everything he'd been through, Cipher deserved that little smooch." A lot of Raven/OC stories I come across are usually a rehash of the same thing, and I rarely see anything truly different, which typically results in me being abdominally appalled by romantic moments in such a relationship, but I didn't feel half-bad about yours. I suppose that, in and of itself, is its own congratulations. Point being, it was sweet, and not sweet in the sense of "Oh, please," but from a feel of truly genuine charm between the characters. Uh, does that make any sense at all? Huh. I didn't think so.:sad: Nope, no sense at all. I guess my experimenting was a god thing. It was my intention to keep the romance at subtle as possible and not mention anything directly until the very end of it all.

As such, even Raven herself gets irritated with your use of allusions after Cipher points out the coincidental similarity between their situation—I'm referring now to the second finale—and the Geonosian Arena, but was that really necessary? Raven's massive spasm of spitting out cuss words left and right was vastly shocking. There's no other way to put it. However, considering the overall milieu of the story and the events of such, I suppose that an utter maelstrom of f-bombs was appropriately OOC for her. As of now, I can't help but smile, for reasons I'd rather not say. :p :evil: I was ROFLMAO at how OOC i wrote Rae, but it seemed like an interesting change. I won't press you for the reasons for your smiling... yet.:evil:

RavensDragon

03-12-2007, 04:28 PM

I think I'm not dead...at least not yet! I think your story has come along!

Matt A

03-14-2007, 07:56 AM

You know, I'm really rather impressed. It's fair to say that most writers form a bit of a bond with their work: regardless of its objective quality, if you criticise a story, then you critcise its creator. And you best prepare for pain. I mean, I like to think of myself as mature, but even I sulk over my work.

But you? Me and Jack didn't exactly lay into your story - personally, I always try be best to be nice about these things - but we were definitely far harsher than usual. I was expecting you to throw an epic hissy over it, an "I put my heart and soul into this, and this is how you repay me!" kind of thing...but no, not only do you agree, you chastise us for not being harsh enough! Considering how you've represented yourself in the past, I shouldn't have been surprised here, but I was. I ain't sure whether you're masochistic, insane or just a Zen master, but it's still nice to see someone be so open about this sort of thing.:D

Which is why, it must be said, this finale re-do is the best decision you could've possibly made. I have an essay I need to write - not that I want to, but I don't have a choice - so I'll have to keep my thoughts on this fairly brief...but, needless to say, the two new chapters are a major improvement. Kiryu takes a backseat, a complete non-role in fact, to finally give Sergei another moment to shine, and he sure doesn't waste it: he isn't exactly evil, just selfish, spiteful and vicious enough to count as same.;) More to the point, arranging a televised 693-2 mega-brawl as a bet is pretty damn insane, and clear signs of a man with one hell of a sense of humour...especially 'cause, even if Cipher and Raven pull off a miracle and win, there's no guarantee that he'll keep to his word and let them go.

In other words, if you're going to up the scale, this is a pretty fool-proof way to do it.:D

Oh yes...like Jack, I'm going to have to mention Raven's Star Wars rant. Except, unlike him, I really enjoyed it: it was surprising, sure, and maybe a little pointless, but also very, very funny. Partly 'cause it was indeed unexpected, but mostly 'cause I just find epic swearing binges funny.:p And I wouldn't really say it was out of character, 'cause if it wasn't for the fact that Raven is a character in a kid's cartoon, I reckon she'd be a lot less judicious over her language. Either way, it was fairly inspired.:D

So, with a little frank judgement and putting in some extra hours, you've turned a crap finale into one that's shaping up to pretty damn respectable. All we need to do now is see where you take this next, and if you can keep it up.;)

-Matt A-

Atoragon

03-14-2007, 01:09 PM

I ain't sure whether you're masochistic, insane or just a Zen master

Let's go with insane;)

Atoragon

03-16-2007, 06:07 PM

So, this weekend I'm going to be out of town for the United States National Chemistry Olympiad, so I decided to post what update I have. Hopefully, I can get some work done while out of town and post more Monday, although I wouldn't necessarily count on it.

So, here we go-

There was a flash of light as the electrical tornado engulfed Cipher. Stray lightning bolts shot outwards, either striking one of Slade’s minions, or sending a group of villains running. Gasps of horror were all apparent as the tornado subsided, revealing Spirnak, 400 ft tall and ripped with iron-hard muscles and razor-sharp diamond plates.

Spirnak took a step forward, but stopped. He shrieked in pain and grasped the back of his head. The feeling was if you had a power drill drilling into the back of your skull. There was another flash of light as Spirnak disappeared, leaving Cipher lying on the ground.

“Okay, what in hell just happened?!” Cipher demanded. The faint chuckle of Sergei could be heard behind him. Cipher turned around to face Sergei, who was overlooking the scene from a balcony.

“Cipher, my boy. Did you really think I would forget about your dear old friend? Notice that you’re still wearing the neural inhibitor. I’ve got to make sure Justi-Break keeps the advantage, you know.” Cipher began to mutter something under his breath, but it was so incoherent, or in Aerkustan, so no one could understand it.

“Begin!” declared Slade.

Cipher wasted no time transforming himself into the Archangel this time. His eyes darted back and forth, looking for his first prey. His eyes narrowed onto a single target, one towards the front of the group.

Gizmo squealed in surprise as Cipher landed on his back. Using the power of the robotic spider legs, he began to bounce around like an out of control bull, but Cipher held on tight. Cipher sent a directed stream of electricity through Gizmo’s backpack, causing the rocket launchers to fire without warning. Six rockets shot out in all directions, plastering groups of robotic minions and super villains alike.

Now that his ride’s usefulness was done, Cipher lit up his right electron swords. Two quick slashes and the spider legs were cut free, leaving the small boy and his “load” in freefall. By being on the bottom, Gizmo had no choice but to be a pillow for Cipher to cushion his fall. Cipher smirked at his first victim. His eyes once again surveyed the surrounding area, looking for the next.

+++++

Raven had been more reluctant to use the power within her that had been up until recent a curse. She had come over her reluctances and was now quite enjoying herself making Mammoth look like a fool. She would appear out of nowhere, kick Mammoth in the back and teleport away before he even knew what hit him.

A faint clicking filled Raven’s ears. She looked behind her to see a column of Slade’s minions advancing on her position. This was the perfect time to end this little tussle with Mammoth. Mammoth was enveloped in black shadows and hurled at the column of minions. The column was plowed over like a set of bowling pins, Mammoth being the ball.

+++++

“Tell me, Rouge. What happens to rubber when you superheat it?” smirked Cipher as he approached Madam Rouge.

“You think you can scare me?” she retorted. Despite the portrait she portrayed, she was scared. No, that would be an understatement. She was scared shitless. After witnessing firsthand your comrades being torn apart, an effect like shellshock can take hold.

Cipher saw right through this disguise, though. Something about the prospect someone’s life had always heightened his senses. He didn’t even bother to raise his arm; he just turned his palm towards Rouge. A bolt of lightning shot across the short distance, bursting Rouge back into a nearby wall. Most of her rubber-like body had been vulcanized instantly.

+++++

“… Remind me to never piss those two off again,” gawked Beast Boy as he watched the carnage unveil before his eyes on the TV.

“I can do that,” replied Cyborg. “But only if you do the same for me.”

“Those two are more vicious and ruthless than the Gordanians could ever be,” stated Starfire.

“Something tells me that there is going to be very little trouble for the next months,” added Robin.

“More like none,” corrected Cyborg. “I bet you that all those two have to do is show up and there will be a similar effect of Dr. Light around Raven. Speak of the devil, I think he’s their last target.”

+++++

“< So Rae, you want the honors? >”

“< No, you have a go at him. >”

“< But he fears you so much more. This’ll be fun to watch. >”

“< But you’ve never had the joy of wailing on him. >”

“Umm, excuse me? I can’t understand a word you two are saying, but I’m pretty sure you’re arguing over who gets to attack me. May I offer a suggestion? Why don’t I just lie down on the ground, play dead and you two just ignore me?”

“Aww, but that will take all the fun out of it.”

“What fun?” asked a new voice. “I’d say the fun is just about to begin.” The two Titans turned around to face the new voice. There, standing in all his glory, was Kiryu.

“Let’s dance.”

Oh look I'm...

03-17-2007, 02:57 PM

That had to be one of the most wickedly cool cliffhangers I've ever seen. Nicely executed!;) :anime:

RavensDragon

03-20-2007, 03:53 PM

I love cliffhangers!

Atoragon

03-27-2007, 06:53 PM

quick update. for the last week or so, i have been cramming all the projects i should have done over the last month into the last week, so i have been unable to get onto my computer. i have just now started writing the next bit, so expect it up in a day or two. if you're really lucky, i may have it up tonight. depends on how much "Halo: First Strike" is still in my mind. I pulled an all-nighter last night because i had to read the entire book, then write a summary for every chapter. that sucked. i still find it hard to believe it was a week and a half ago i last posted. that's extremely long for me.

RavensDragon

03-29-2007, 06:53 PM

at least you don't die from em!

Matt A

03-31-2007, 05:02 PM

First up, sorry for taking so long to reply to this. I've been pretty busy lately, I admit, but even by my current standards, fifteen days is just silly. Still, my uni lecturers never seem to give a toss about that sort of thing, so I suppose I didn't have much of a choice.:sad:

But I'm now on my three-week Easter break, and that mythical "spare ten minutes" has finally arrived for me to drop in a review. However, seeing as ten minutes is still about all I've got spare (this isn't the only thread I need to catch up on, sadly), I will have to be fairly brief.

So, the chapter. Well, it must be said, that was one pretty sweet fight scene. A fairly brief way to dispatch a 692-strong army, but then again, Raven and Cipher's powers are pretty extensive: it's always been my theory that, if she wasn't restrained by her semi-heroic nature, Raven alone would be completely untouchable. Even without their godly backup, this fight was Raven and Cipher taking the brakes off, refusing to be held back by that pesky notion of "villains having a right to life"...and accordingly, whilst their victory was unexpectedly swift, it wasn't an unrealistic turn.

In a particular advantage, this fight allowed you to play with the kind of black comedy that you excel at. The two notable parts were the other Titans commenting on the fight, especially Beast Boy and Cyborg's opening two-liner, and Raven and Cipher arguing over who should beat up Dr Light: both very cruel, and both very funny.:D And whilst not being particularly funny, I have to also give you credit for Cipher's "vulcanisation" of Madame Rouge: one of those real "holy crap" moments.:eek::D

Oh yes, and here's another reason why Raven and Cipher's easy victory was no bad thing: the fight ain't even begun yet. Kiryu could've won against the rest of Justi-Break without even moving, let alone breaking a sweat, and even our mighty heroes are but children next to his terrible majesty. This sure as hell won't be quick and easy...which will only make it more fun.:evil:

So, now to see the rest. Maybe I'll even reply in good time...;)

-Matt A-

Atoragon

04-03-2007, 02:35 AM

I am proud to announce that I am finally done with my multi-genre research project from Hell. I can now get refocused on writing. Expect the next piece in a day or two.

RavensDragon

04-10-2007, 04:52 PM

good point...I've got a science project from Hell!

Atoragon

04-11-2007, 01:37 AM

So, this should be the ending. To me, it seems a lot better than the original. Hope you agree.

Episode 12.2: The Final Overture

“Let’s Dance.”

“Yes, let’s.” The opposing sides’ attacks were as swift as lightning. No, not quite. The initial speed could be quite possibly faster than light itself. In mere milliseconds, Cipher and Kiryu had launched themselves ten feet into the other’s waiting sword. Angry hisses spat out from the colliding blades. Colorful plumes of mixing plasma ions and electrons spewed into the air, making an aurora borealis effect.

“Yo, Rae!” grunted Cipher. “You can help out any time now!” Raven was snapped out of her daze. This was completely unlike her. It was as if a mental block had been put on her, but she couldn’t identify it. She shook the notion off and grasped the nearest thing she could find, a decapitated Slade minion, and hurled it at Kiryu.

Kiryu was caught completely off guard as the hunk-of-junk robot collided with his head. He was sent sprawling across the floor.

“Bout time you joined the fight,” commented Cipher.

“Little dazed. Over it now.”

“You better be. Keep up like that, and you’ll end up like Rouge over there.” Cipher gestured towards Madame Rouge’s smoldering. A bad feeling conjured up in the pit of Raven’s stomach.

“I won’t die, sir.”

“Sir? Wha? I’m not commanding, I’m just… never mind. Let’s get this bastard!”

“Right.” Raven was the first to strike this time, jumping up into the air and dissipating into a vortex. She reappeared behind Kiryu, cocking her shadow-engulfed fist, but was knocked away by a thrash from Kiryu’s tail. She was launched across the room, crashing into a wall. Her plated armor no sported many cracks and dents, plus highlights of red as blood oozed through.

Cipher charged at Kiryu, sword blaring. He unleashed a wild swing, but Kiryu merely sidestepped to evade. Kiryu straight kicked Cipher in the back, and then with a quick flare from Gorouda’s rockets, launched himself high into the air.

Kiryu came descending from the heavens; a single leg stretched outwards, intent on turning Cipher into a sapphire pancake. Cipher tried to roll out of the way, but he didn’t completely make it. Kiryu landed right on his left elbow, shattering the joint into a million pieces. Cipher cried out in pain as Kiryu removed his foot. He prepared to step on him again when Mammoth’s massive hulk collided into his back, sending him flying and pinned underneath.

“Cipher! Are you okay?!” screamed Raven as she came running up to her fallen comrade. She kneeled down next to him and inspected the damage.

“Despite the fact my arm felt like it was stuck in a blender and some one pressed ‘puree’, I guess I’m fine.”

“Good, because I don’t necessarily have enough energy to he-” She was cut off as Mammoth’s carcass exploded from a blast from Kiryu’s neutron cannons. Bits of flesh and blood rained down on the two Titans.

“That was a bit uncalled for, Raven,” mused Kiryu. Gorouda’s quartet of rockets flared to life, spewing a white-hot blue flame behind it. Kiryu streaked forwards at an amazing speed. Too fast to measure without Kid Flash’s assistance. When he was almost got to Raven, Kiryu dropped his left foot, letting it drag against the ground. His foot caught just like he planned, thus thrashing his tail around directly into Raven’s face.

A sonic boom resonated throughout the expansive room as Raven was sent hurtling across the room. Her body impacted the concrete wall, sending large cracks hundreds of feet in every direction. The walls shook as if there was an earthquake, causing large chunks of concrete to fall from the ceiling.

“One down, one to go,” sneered Kiryu.

“We’re not done yet. You underestimate Raven’s fighting spirit. You haven’t won yet.”

“Take a good look around you, Cipher. With an impact like that, Raven is unconscious at best, more likely dead. And you? Look at your self. Your left arm is completely useless and you are exhausted from your slaughtering of Justi-Break. I’d say I’ve got this in the bag.”

All energy from the Gorouda unit was dumped into the main power reserve. Power surged to extreme-low-temperature light-conducting matrices. The tri-doors on Kiryu’s front opened, revealing the Absolute Zero Cannon as it prepared to fire. The all-so-familiar curled snake appearing sphere of low-temperature light energy conjured up from the three charging rods on the tips of the doors.

“This is it, Cipher, your final overture. Start writing your will, for your life is going to end any second now.” The sphere of energy had reached its full size. It pulsed and crackled in an eerie light-blue energy. There was final bright pulse as the cannon began to…

“Azarath, Metrion, ZINTHOS!”

The tri-doors of Kiryu’s Absolute Zero Cannon were ripped clear of their hinges ad forced inwards. The arctic-chilled beam impacted the makeshift shield at point-blank range and shot back to its source. Kiryu let off a screech of surprise as he became enveloped in a cocoon of ice. The haunting noise echoed throughout the room until there was only silence.

Cipher stared off into space, surprised by what he saw until a loud sound caught his attention. What specifically had caught his attention was the sound of a concrete slab falling over as Raven dug herself out of a pile of rubble.

“Raven… I could have sworn you were… dead.”

“I thought the same thing,” mused Raven as she brushed her hand against the laceration that decorated her face. It stemmed from her right temple to the right side of her mouth.

“Consider getting that cleaned. You look like ****.”

“You’re no sight yourself.”

“Always with the quirky comments, aren’t ya Rae? Come on, let’s go back home.”

Epilogue

Five months later…

“I now officially hate everything about the press,” complained Cipher. He slumped down on the couch next to Raven and stared out the window at the bay. He had just finished was seemed like the hundredth press conference about the destruction of Justi-Break and Moguera.

“Come on, dude, lighten up,” said Cyborg. “Besides, you were the one who volunteered.”

“Because I built Moguera and he was my responsibility. No one else should have.”

“I agree with Cyborg on that you should do the lightening up,” added Starfire. “It is Christmas once again and it is a time of happiness, not anger.”

“Pffft, you’ve just made my day that much worse, Starfire.”

“Sorry… umm, what is that above your head?”

“Huh? Dammit Beast Boy! Com…”

“No, its fine.” Raven reached over and…