I don't own the teen titans and Jackal belong to my Boyfriend.

Chapter 7: Jackal's Place

As the Titan's drove on their way back to their base, Robin turned his gaze to the wounded ally between him and James.

"What did you mean about there's trouble about to happen?" Robin asked Jackal, both he and James supporting him. After his warning about the Tower and figuring out that the magic users of their group were too tired to cast their spells, Cyborg used his technology to remotely call the T-Car to them so they could all get back to the tower fast enough.

"What?" Cyborg asked when he called the T-Car." My baby knows how to find me when I need her." With Raven in the passenger seat and Starfire flying alongside the vehicle, this left Robin and James in the back seat with the two of them on either side of Jackal. Beast Boy decided to stay back and make sure Mumbo was detained by the authorities. Clutching his hand, Jackal cursed a bit as his claw hissed in pain.

"I'm gonna be blunt; once I found out James was staying with all of you I decided to cast powerful magic over the Tower, to hide and protect it from the Tainted Shadows and other undesirables. It's not that I didn't trust you to protect him, I just wanted a little extra insurance to make sure all of you were safe and snug. Hnngh!" He explained, sticking his claw past James and out the window so the steam could be let out." But whatever was in that dose of Corruption is messing with my powers, and hurts like a son of a- Ngah!" He shook his claw wildly out the window, his other hand gripping his wrist. After a bit of wincing and flinching, he continues." Not only is the barriers I put up down, but it is actually attracting trouble to the Tower."

"So it's painted a big bull eye over our home?" Cyborg spoke, correcting his driving so they might get home faster." That is trouble, but our own security should be able to hold the place down till we get back." James gently rubbed Jackal's arm, Jackal letting out a relieved sigh as he felt James' light numbing magic working into his limb. The hissing began to die down some, prompting Jackal to pull his claw back in and sit between the two of them again, though he still nursed his wrist.

"Um, what about the damage caused by the other Tainted Shadows who got in?" James replied, thinking back to the previous assault. Jackal flinched slightly, though it was less from pain and more from regret.

"Back then we didn't know just how capable the Tainted Shadow was, nor what methods they might use to attack us. Now that we know what they can do, they won't be able to get in as easily. Still, the damage to the Tower might leave some openings." Cyborg winced, looking back at Robin. Robin nodded, prompting Cyborg to set the T-Car into auto-mode and check his wrist computer for the status of the Tower. Nothing seemed to be going on inside the Tower, no life signs or anything except for Silky. Nothing was on the island either, the defenses and scans not showing anything. Still, he continued his scanning, determined to put his worries to rest before his attention was drawn to sensors that he and Raven had set up to detect disturbances in the magical spectrum. From what he was picking up, there was a large displacement of magical energy near the Tower, similar to the magical pulse given off by a large scale teleportation spell. Already it was growing in size, seeming to lock its stability like some kind of anchor for the teleportation spell." Uh oh.."

"That bad?" James asked, drawing a nod from Cyborg even as Raven looked over Cyborg's scans with wide eyes.

"That's a fixed portal spell, used for transporting large groups between two points." Raven explained, narrowing her eyes as she studied the intricacy of the spell work." Whoever set that spell up must be powerful to keep it open like this; it is essentially a direct path between whoever is casting the spell and the portal forming on the beach." Even as she explained, Cyborg noted that a large signal began to form on the beach of the island, wind, and water picking up as the portal began to glow and energy readings spiked.

"The sensors are picking up a large force heading for the Tower, and coming from that portal! I don't think our defenses will able to keep them occupied long enough for us to get there." Cyborg panicked slightly, putting the T-Car back to manual and driving faster." With those possible numbers, we might have to initiate the Lockdown procedure just to keep it safe! I know it is just a probability, but I am NOT going to underestimate the Tainted Shadows again!"

"Good call, it's better than letting whatever they are into the Tower.." Robin added, taking a look at his fellow Titans and friends. Evaluating the situation, he realized that even if they had made it to the Tower, none of them were really in any position to fight a large group at once. What's more, he didn't know if the Tower defenses would be able to hold up to an assault from a large force. Thinking quickly he turned to James and Jackal." Do you two have anywhere we can turn into a momentary base of operations? We might have to hold up in another area at least until we are better prepared, but I need to know if you believe our defenses can hold out at least for a day." James looked up with a worried expression before nodding.

"Jackal normally has plenty of safe houses. Think that we can use one?" James asked his companion, wincing a bit as Jackal coughed up some blood into his hand.

"Sure I don't mind. I will tell you where the closest one is, but first is there anything, in particular, you might want taken out of the Tower before the Lockdown?" Jackal asked, drawing a curious look from the others." I got an agent currently near the Tower who might be able to gather some of your stuff and then get out using one of the gifts I gave him. Just tell me what he needs to get. Also, don't worry, the Tainted Shadow ain't getting into your Tower without its full number, and even then I am sure their esteemed leader won't want to risk it until all of you are there." Jackal smiles weakly before brushing his hair out of his face.

"Ok, we will initiate the Lockdown in five minutes. But kinda curious as to why you have an agent near our Tower." Cyborg replied as he set up the defenses. Jackal merely smiled and shrugged.

"Always have to have a backup plan." He mumbled as the T-Car raced down the road.

Near the Southern part of Jump City was an area referred to as the Party District, named so for its many nightclubs and bars; The Devil's Advocate is one such establishment. It was a lucrative establishment as well, a mixture between a night club and casino, and one of the newest additions to Jump city in the recent month yet quickly becoming popular with party and nightlife crowds. Many would come to sample some of the wilder delights, fulfill their fantasies, or party all night; finding it a good place to let loose. Yet deep beneath its colorful gambling halls and its gritty basement parties dwelled a source of even a darker lifestyle, an outpost of the Tainted Shadows. At first, it had been a bit tricky setting up a place in Jump City without drawing attention from any law enforcement or other criminal groups, but with a bit of persuasion and well-placed sources, the outpost had been set up nicely. As a bonus, it was also generating generous revenue for the group, which could be both used for funding and bribery. The Devil's Advocate had protection from both the law and other criminals, in addition to being set in one of the more accepting locations of the city.

It was from here that Shinukage kept a good grip over on his side of the city, putting his plans into action and sowing the seeds of corruption. Currently, he was being fawned over by a group of his newest 'lovers', his body being caressed and teased by their willing hands. In the midst of this orgy of worship, a single person walked toward Shinukage's throne, bowing before him. Shinukage waved away his subjects so he could better view the interruption, smiling as he saw that it was the Shadowstep that he sent with Loki to retrieve the serpent Lynx from Mumbo.

"My lord, all is going according to plan." The Shadowstep spoke before rising up, reaching into his pack and pulling out a clear orb, Lynx fast asleep inside its enchanted depths." In addition to your prize, Jackal has been disabled for now. He won't be giving us trouble for a while. For now, shall I get the splicer sir?" Shinukage raised his hands; all eyes of the orgy ceasing their fun to that he could be heard.

"The splicer? No, I have something more devious in mind." He spoke, drawing a confused look from his faithful Shadowstep. Shinukage very rarely turns down a chance to steal powers or magic from any source, so this is unusual." It would be far too easy to hurt James by hurting her, but such grief isn't enough for what I have planned. If she were to die, he would merely use the incident to steel his will against me. No, what I have in mind will require him to doubt himself, to fall in despair, to lose his will to continue on. For that, I think it's time to manipulate those who hold a grasp on his heart." Shinukage stood up from his throne and walked towards the Shadowstep, taking Lynx in his hands as a cruel smile graced his handsome face." And if it sows doubt in her heart as well, then all the more reason to travel this path. After all the path of deception is a far more rewarding one then one of simple cruelty, and I have come to enjoy it." Loki nodded his head in understanding, not able to help a small smile grace his face at his master's, no his friend's enthusiasm.

The trip to Jackal's hideout was a short one, mainly thanks to the fact that he had set up more than one 'safe house' in the city. Shortly after receiving a message from Jackal's agent that he acquired all the items the Titans requested, Cyborg immediately activated the Lockdown Procedure, the Tower reinforcing itself to any outward or inward attempts at infiltrations. Every room was tripled sealed; the outside was reinforced with walls that could absorb massive amounts of kinetic force, and the whole Tower vanishing from view with a mixture of magic and cloaking tech. As a final precaution, many of the defensive armaments and turrets had activated over the entirety of the island, ensuring that the Tainted Shadows would be preoccupied and delayed at the very least and possibly prevent them from moving too far inland. As the T-Car swerved along the roads, the Titans tried to keep positive.

"It isn't the most spruced up place, but it should.. Nngh." Jackal started before clutching his chest, James helping to hold him up while Jackal merely smirked." It should serve its purpose, however."

"Take it easy Jackal; we will get you there soon enough." Replied James, holding Jackal underneath his arm and keeping him steady. Feeling a hand on his other shoulder, Jackal was surprised to see Robin giving him a comforting smile.

"You guys don't need to worry so much, I ain't a cripple. But your concern is appreciated." Jackal's wry voice hitched a bit at the end of his statement while Cyborg and Starfire kept a lookout. The neighborhood was sort of shady but not too crime-ridden. Raven, in particular, watched James and Robin keep Jackal stable in the rearview mirror, her eyes narrowing as she looked over his wounded form. James said that Jackal was used to draining corruption from others, but how he did was stuck in her mind. His claw stabbing into Mumbo's chest, pulling the taint into his own body without causing any physical damage to Mumbo.. It was like he stabbed his claw directly into Mumbo soul and siphoned the darkness into himself. During the act, she could sense a bit of Jackal's soul, his power, and it unnerved her. Something wasn't right with him, and the feeling she got from him set her on edge. She narrows her eyes more, switching her gaze to James and relaxing a bit. Though she didn't like Jackal, she wanted to talk with James about him later to at least see from his side of things.

With Jackal's guidance, the T-Car drove down an empty alley, Raven sticking her head out of the car while Cyborg continues getting directions from Jackal. It seemed like a dead-end, but just barely she could feel a tingle of energy nearby.

"Just in time, we're here," Jackal added as they make it in front of a brick wall with a painting of a door on it, complete with a chalk-drawn handle. Beside the drawn door was a graffiti painting of an open garage, complete with tools. The Titans observed the wall skeptically, Starfire even flying over the wall to see that there was nothing on the other side.

"Um, friend Jackal? This is just a wall." She spoke, looking back at Jackal with a confused look. Jackal merely smirked, getting out of the car and walking to the door with James' help. Raven's eyes were wide, scanning the wall critically. Getting out of the car she could sense the magic here, hidden well yet also foreign.

"You just have to knock," Jackal continued, raising his claw and tapping at the door. ", and say the magic words: Aperi absconsa." Raven glanced between the wall and Jackal, feeling a spike of energy in the wall. The wall shook slightly, white light forming along the edges of the drawn door and handle even as she felt more magic form along it, as if there was something beyond that was reaching out. The handle begins to form, popping from the wall with a click while the door itself changed from drawn brick to green wood. After the door had formed the white light faded away, leaving a functional door built into the wall, as well as a large garage door next to it. Without waiting Jackal grabbed the handle with his hand.

"Um, Jackal?" Robin started, only to stop as Jackal opened the door, revealing a large living area beyond its threshold. The Titans looked surprised, Robin turning to Jackal." How did you manage to do this?" Starfire checked over the wall, only to see that the doorway and room didn't appear on the other side.

"A shit-ton of magical energy and years of practice." Jackal laughed, walking inside with James. Raven is looking over the entryway and the welcoming living room with skeptical eyes before a flapping sound drew her attention above her, a green parrot landing on her head.

"Raaawk, Polly's job done. Now where can a birdie get a cracker?" remark the parrot, Raven sighing before brushing the bird away.

"Knock it off Beast Boy," Raven muttered, the green parrot changing back into his normal form beside her and rubbing the back of his head. Though he wanted to comfort her a bit and help her calm down, he could tell she clearly didn't want to be touched and was in one of her 'moods'.

"I take it Mumbo has been detained by the authorities?" Starfire asked as she placed a hand on the changeling's shoulder.

"No worries, without his magic or that gooey corruption he didn't put up much of a fight." BB replied, rubbing the back of his head as Raven turned her attention back to the doorway." So what did I miss?" As Starfire began to catch BB up, Raven turned her attention back to the doorway, scanning the magic that made it up.

The magic creating the pocket dimension seemed stable enough, but she double-checked it over before stepping inside. Seeing Raven was comfortable enough to enter it, the other Titans follow, Cyborg driving his T-Car into the garage. The first room most of the Titans enter was the main living area, moderately about half the size of the Titans' main room with several couches and chairs on the left side of the room with a large circular table, and a large flat-screen TV set on the right side. Further in, they could see a long hallway across from the entrance leading to other rooms, five on each side with one on the end. The door at the end of the hallway was open and showing some type of spacious garage where Cyborg was parking the T-Car, the heroes confused at the physics of the place. Taking stock of the room, they observed the simple style of the place, James helping Jackal sit in one of the chairs.

"Anything I can get you?" James asked, looking over Jackal's cringing form. Seeing as he has never having seen him react this badly to absorption of corruption, James is worried. Jackal coughed a bit, pointing to the hallway.

"Second door on the right is the medical bay. Get the green case located under the bed and set it in my bedroom. My bedroom is the first door on the right; I will be there in a second." Jackal replied James nodded as he got up. Giving James a pat on the back as he left, Jackal returned his attention to the Titans." Now, I expect you will want to know which room is which."

James was hesitant about leaving Jackal's side, but he trusted that the Titans would be able to watch over him or come get him should anything happen. Looking around in the clean and tidy medical bay for the green case James was vigilant in his search, checking every little nook and cranny. Kneeling under the table he managed to find and pick it up, noting that it is locked with some kind of runes. It looks like a cross between a medium-sized first aid case and a briefcase. After giving it a quick look over, James turned back to the hallway to see Raven standing in the doorway, blocking his path out of the room. She seemed unsure, frowning as she looked over Jackal in the living room. In addition, she seemed nervous, something clearly bugging her.

"Something wrong?" James asked, drawing Raven's attention to him. She fidgeted a bit, her enchanting violet eyes looking everywhere but James before finally focusing on his ruby-red eyes. Stepping inside Raven shut the door behind her, drawing James to raise an eyebrow in surprise.

"We need to talk." The witch spoke, a stern look on her face." About Jackal and about what happened, both in Mumbo's world and when Jackal drained the corruption from Mumbo." She kept her face neutral even as James' eyes widen. Nodding, James moved towards her.

"I know.. Both you and other titans deserve the truth. For now, however, let's focus on getting settled and healing up, and then we will talk and answer everyone's questions, ok?" James smiled, knowing it was high time that they get to know each other more, trusting the Titans with this information. Raven looked his face over for any signs of deception, yet found none. Slowly she nodded, stepping out of the way for James. James beamed in return, lightly patting her shoulder before stepping into the hallway.

"-middle right room is the generator room, I advise you do NOT go in there. A lot of work to keep this place powered and hidden and the instruments are kind of sensitive. The third right room is the kitchen, and the right room closet to the garage is the training and trophy room. You can spend time there working out." Jackal was finishing, the Titans listening astutely." As a reminder, since the middle room on the left side is the bathroom and showers, that means two of you will have to share a room with each other since the first room on the left is James' room. No worries though, the rooms are big and well furnished."

"Do you happen to have somewhere I can plug up and recharge? I don't exactly sleep normally you know." Cyborg asked, Jackal nodding before beginning to get up with Cyborg's help.

"Just help me to the generator room and we will see if you can't find or fashion a workable outlet for your energy. As long as I am in there, we can make sure not to mess with anything we shouldn't and I can fix anything that needs fixing." Jackal replied, walking with Cyborg to the generator room. Spotting James with Raven behind him, Jackal smirked. James blushes slightly and shook his head, instead of motioning to Raven, who is still looking at Jackal critically. Jackal raised an eyebrow before rolling his eyes. "Let me guess, you got questions. Well, once you all choose your bedrooms and I patch up, we will have chat. Until then, stop glaring at me." It was Raven's turn to raise an eyebrow, opening her mouth to retort before James pats her shoulder.

"Jackal normally doesn't mince words." James replied to her upset look." But at least he is honest about his feelings." Raven turns to look at him with an annoyed glance, James balking a bit before quickly heading to Jackal's room. Opening the door, James is grateful to see that Jackal's room had one of his main computers. While he was waiting for Jackal he could use it to search through the city for Lynx. It was a small hope, but still...

Looking over the available bedrooms, the Titans began to discuss who would be sleeping where. All the rooms are almost identically furnished, except one room which is slightly more feminine in color and décor.

"Well, I don't mind sharing with Cyborg." Beast boy spoke up, before giving Raven a sidelong glance." Of course, I'd be happier to share with Raven." Raven rolled her eyes before crossing her arms.

"Your snoring would probably keep me up if your smell didn't." Raven retorted with a small smirk, before turning to see Starfire beaming at her with a wide smile.

"Perhaps you might bunk with me? It could be like the slumber party!" Starfire happily spoke, grabbing Raven's hand in her own. While Starfire seemed ecstatic, Raven was thinking it over with a frown. While she didn't feel too comfortable with resting beside the always energetic Starfire, she felt even less comfortable sleeping with one of the guys. As she was about to question why she couldn't have her own bedroom, she saw one of the bedrooms was obviously made especially for James, what with his name on the door. Looking at the door Raven raised an eyebrow before deciding to take a look inside, asking Starfire to give her a second to see something. Opening the door, she was a bit surprised at the calming magic she felt from inside of the room and the subtle scent of sandalwood. Looking around, Raven smiled slightly as she saw that James' room was kinda dark, in many ways similar to her own room in the Tower. She recognized several statues of slight demonic origin, as well as a few objects that wouldn't look out of place in her own room. Now she understands why James kept sneaking into her room. A sense of peace filled her mind as she took in the surrounding, helping her unwind from the stress of earlier.

The sound of an engine snapped her out of her thoughts, the witch running out James' room, closing the door and looking down the hall to the garage. Robin, in particular, was on edge, the sound of the vehicle somehow familiar to him. The reason why it sounds so familiar became apparent as the garage door opens up, Robin's masked eyes widening as he saw the front of his bike driving into Jackal's garage. But that wasn't half as surprising as seeing who was driving it. Tossing his cape back, Red X dismounted off the vehicle, grabbing a large pack that was attached to the back of the seat.

"I take it you are happy to see me?" Red X sarcastically spoke, holding the pack out just as a confused Silky popped his head out of the top with a gurgle.

"Silky! My little bungorf are you ok?" Starfire immediately asked, swooping close and grabbing the now happy Silky, spinning around with him in her arms before Robin moved between her and Red X already on edge.

"What are you doing here?" he asked calmly, glaring at Red X while readying himself for a fight. Red X merely looked him over before setting the pack full of stuff to the side.

"Relax bird brain, I'm Jackal's agent. For the moment anyway." Red X remarked as he crossed his arms. The Titans didn't buy his statement, still glaring at him until Jackal's voice came from the power room.

"Don't worry, he's telling the truth." He loudly stated so they could hear him, before coughing a bit of blood into his claw. As the Titans looked between Jackal and Red X, Jackal merely gave a sigh before wiping his mouth on his sleeve." Look, I know you guys have a bit of history, but it doesn't matter here. Red X is my connection here in Jump City."

"And the fact that he is a criminal?" Robin quickly replied, making Red X raise a brow.

"To be honest, no one in this house has a perfectly clean record, vigilantes included." Jackal slyly remarked, drawing the Titans' attention to him." The world isn't all black and white; there are a lot of grays in the middle. Red X there is a gray; he isn't all bad and has done some good deeds."

"Like when I helped you prevented Professor Chang from frying the city and your friends. Besides, I am on Jackal's payroll here, so you don't need to worry." Red X replied, drawing an annoyed look from Robin." I get that you don't trust me, but from what I have heard you need all the help you can get. Now if you don't mind, I'm heading back to my place. You kids stay out of trouble now." Robin could feel Red X smirking as he left the garage. Before he got too far he stopped, turning back around while grabbing something in his pocket.

"Almost forgot. I believe this is yours." Pulling an amulet from his pocket, Red X tossed the strange jewelry to James who just came out of Jackal's room. Spotting the amulet flying at him James deftly caught it, looking down at it in his hand. The light shines off of the bleached bone, the main part of the amulet being made from the skull of a raven with finer bones forming up the lower jaw and a pair of horns. Bright red markings accented the amulet before fading, the skull letting out a single caw once it rested in James' hand. James and the Titans turned their gaze back to Jackal, Jackal merely sighed before heading back to his room, James beginning to clutch the amulet protectively.

"I take it Monogwaui found her way into your hands?" James asked, frowning slightly as Jackal nodded." And the reason you let Red X used her is?"

"Because he needed it to keep safe from any goons and because you were somewhere else, namely with the Titans," Jackal replied, drawing a sigh from James. Eventually relaxing, James smiles and pats Jackal on his back.

"Fair enough. But I am keeping her for now. Still, I am grateful that you managed to find her."

"Deal. Now maybe Madame Bones will stop bugging me to return it to you." Jackal replied, smiling back as well. Taking a closer look at the amulet, Beast Boy cringed lightly.

"Dude, is that really a raven skull?" He asked, looking to James. James nods his head in confirmation.

"Yes, and before you ask the other bones are exactly what you think they are. Still, she is a lot nicer then her appearance suggests." He replies, rubbing the head of the raven skull caringly. It caws in response. Flinching slightly Beast Boy turns his attention away from it.

"Yeah well, it still kinda gives me the creeps." James merely smiles, he places Monogwaui against his chest.

"Never judge a book by its cover." He finishes before turning back to Jackal. Making his way back into his room, Jackal left James looking down at his amulet before he tucked it away in his vest. Seeing the Titans discussing their rooming arrangement, James himself heads back to the living room, unknowing that Beast Boy was watching him with suspicion.

Ever since they got back from Mumbo's messed up world, BB could detect not only the animalistic scent of desire from James and Raven but James' scent ON Raven. Normally he wouldn't have thought much about it since figure James was probably protecting Raven in that world, but he couldn't fight that nagging feeling that James had done something to her considering the scent of his 'musk' was still on her. The fact that she had avoided James when they came out only doubles Beast Boy's suspicions. Setting his clothing inside of his new room, Beast Boy quickly made his way after James in the living room. Spotting him sitting down on one of the chairs nearby, Beast Boy came closer before sitting down across from him.

"We need to talk before the others come in." He said simply, James looking up with a curious expression. Seeing Beast Boy's serious gaze James hardens his own gaze before making himself relax.

"Ok, I owe you all that much for your help. What did you want to talk about?" James replied while Beast Boy sighed. Now that they were actually going to talk about it, he didn't have the same anger or drive that he had when preparing to confront him, Beast Boy having calmed himself down. Perhaps it was best to just be straightforward.

"Why was the smell of your musk on Raven?" He started, raising his hand as he notices James' eyes widening." Not just your musk, your CUM. Why was your cum on Raven?" He demanded, his fist clenching. At first, James was beginning to brace himself for a fight, his mind quickly trying to figure out how Beast Boy knew about his cum being on Raven, but he forced himself to relax. Beast Boy was a friend, and it didn't matter how he knew, he still deserved the truth. Sighing himself, James nodded his head before making sure no one would overhear.

"When we were in that world, Mumbo... He not only turned us into rabbits, but he made sure that both of us were greatly aroused." James started, BB tilting his head in curiosity." He had plans to breed us." At hearing these words Beast Boy's hair immediately rose on end, his fists clenching tightly as he bares his teeth.

"What?!" He hissed, James raising his hands in defense while staying seated.

"No hold on, nothing like that actually happened." James quickly clarified, BB's anger slowly abating but not quite settling." We managed to escape before anything like that happened. Anyway, we had to maneuver the environment while both of us were bunnies, as well as greatly turned on." At this point James begins to blush red, a fact that wasn't lost on Beast Boy." I ended up being caught by a few of those showgirls. Needless to say, they tried playing with me a bit, but Raven was able to save me." Beast Boy felt a twinge of worry both at James being caught up in such a situation, but also Raven being caught up in that event." We managed to get a good distance away, but I was so turned on that-" Beast Boy braced himself, getting ready to berate or rage at James."- I just needed to jack off, so I did. Raven was watching out for enemies, and I kinda.. Came rather hard, a strand of my cum landing on Raven's ear." The green Titan raised his brows, confusion first at hearing that he jacked off before changing to understanding as James continues his tale, regretful that he immediately thought the worst of James." Anyway, that is why my cum was on her." After finishing his story, the half-blood mage relaxing in his seat, looking away from Beast Boy and bracing himself for the worst." I understand if you don't trust me, or even hate me for what I have done... If you want Raven's side, just ask her. Just, don't judge her ok?" James finished, driving the guilt more into BB's heart. He then calmly awaited his judgment, looking down at the floor morosely.

What he didn't expect was to feel Beast Boy's hand on his shoulder, James looking up to see BB staring at him intensely. His other hand was clenched, his eyes staring into James' eyes for a while before he let out a held sigh.

"Ok.. I'm going to level with you, James." He started, sitting down in the seat beside James." I honestly thought that.. I mean I had a hunch that you.. You know." He pressed his fingers together, James' eyes widening as he got the gist of it." I'm sorry for thinking the worst of you. At first, I thought you must have been lying, but looking into your eyes I can tell that you weren't.." He placed his head in his palms." Some friend I must be, to immediately have my mind go to such a place." James placed his hand on Beast Boy's back, the shapeshifter looking up at James smiling compassionately.

"Don't worry about it. You were in Mumbo's head the same as us. I don't blame you for thinking that." He replied, patting BB's back softly." It was the corruption. It always brings out the bad in people, even if you are exposed to it in a space like Mumbo's mind." BB flinched but James quickly continued." But don't worry, none of us are corrupted or anything." Beast Boy let this info set, before nodding.

"Still I am sorry for accusing you."

"And I am sorry we got caught in that situation." James rubbed the back of his neck." Now that we got that out of the way, I think it might be time to answer everyone else's questions." He pointed to the others coming to the living room.

All the Titans have gathered around in the comfortable furniture and listening to Cyborg as he told them what the inside of the mechanical room as well as what he could use in there.

"Basically it looks like it is capable for me to plug myself in and charge myself. What's more is there is enough power for me to stay recharging and stay up at the same time, that way I can patch into the Tower Defenses and cams to keep whatever comes through that portal busy while all of you are sleeping." Cyborg announced.

"But wouldn't that leave you tired from doing this all night?" Beast Boy asked, Starfire nodding in agreement.

"Not to worry. Like I said I can keep recharging and stay up at the same time. I'll be fine." He answered.

"Plus it is important that we keep an eye on the situation and make sure nothing serious happens on the island," Robin added while Raven was pensive.

"After our meeting, I intend to head back into there so I can set myself up; got the defenses on auto right now but thankfully it hasn't seemed like anything has come through the portal yet." Cyborg began to frown." I wonder why."

"The idea is that the portal is to lure you back home faster," Jackal answered from the hallway, sipping from a strange metal flask as he entered the room. His claw is heavily bandaged, Jackal's calm gaze sweeping over the Titans before he sighs, ready for the questions. James is excited and nervous at the same time about this; he feels bad about bringing the Titans into the fray, but they are already in it now and need to know what's going on. Jackal takes a seat next to James, raising his flask high before speaking." Ok, quiz time. Go ahead and make your questions." Robin decides to start the round of questions.

"Do you have any agents in the Tainted Shadows Jackal? And do they know of the safehouses?" He asked, Jackal, nodding somewhat before leaning forward.

I do have some agents in the Tainted, but I won't name them or give how many for their safety and yours. I don't tell them who else I have working for me so if one of them flips their loyalty, the others can stay safe. All I CAN tell you about them is they been there for a good while and none of them are part of the Tainted Shadow's wardogs, the Shadowsteps. It's been a couple of months since my last contact with any of my informants, however, so I am getting a bit worried.." He rubs his claw anxiously." I hope they are ok."

"Shadowsteps?" asked Starfire as she is stroking Silky in her lap.

"They are elite of the elite. They are the most skilled and trained soldiers in the group, and though each of them is different and comes from different backgrounds they are all deadly and skilled assassins. Only the toughest, ruthless, and loyal become one of its members." Jackal replied with a sour look." They are divided into three subgroups, but thankfully their numbers aren't too high."

"Raven, remember the hooded and cloaked figures that tried to separate us after I got shot? Those were shadowsteps from the Hunter's Sect; meant for scouting, stealth, and assassination. You can normally tell what sort of shadowstep they are based on their equipment or gear; they are either in the Hunter's Sect, Raid Corp, or Plague Mages. Normally it's extremely hard to escape them, but luck was on our side. It's better to fight them in a well-lit room because they prefer to hide in the shadows and darkness. Never fight them in groups unless you are very confident in your fighting skills, or you have the upper hand. Some of them fight with honor and some fight dirty." James added. Seeing Robin about to ask, James quickly continued." The Raid Corp is mostly about strength and physical fighting, and the Plague Mages are mostly spellcasters."

"How does the corruption work, and does it affect everyone the same way?" asked Starfire as she shivers, trying to get the awful memories of Mumbo's place out of her head.

"It doesn't affect everyone the same way; it mostly depends on what their innermost desire is or most repressed emotions are, bringing them out and enhancing them. There are many components to it which also sometimes radically alter or change a person despite their desires or thoughts." Jackal answered." So normally it brings out your most repressed desires, or can be altered to be nearly random on which emotion or aspect of you they enhance."

"I've seen it mostly turn normal people into real horn dogs, turn them into power-obsessed psychos, or have intense bloodlust and anger. It's the roll of the dice." Added James. Noticing Raven subtly glaring at Jackal's claw, Beast Boy decided to ask one of his own questions.

"How did you reach into Mumbo's chest without killing him? Shouldn't the corruption have affected you, and do you still have that corruption inside of you?" Beast Boy demanded. None of the Titans can shake that image of Jackal burying his claw into Mumbo's chest, despite there being no blood. The fact that the corruption didn't seem to affect him the slightest was also suspicious. Jackal raised his hands nonthreateningly as Robin placed his hand on BB's shoulder to calm him.

"Basically I was using my magic to interact with Mumbo's soul, not his body. That way I could draw the corruption out of it. It stains your soul mostly, so that was the only way to fully pull it out of him. It doesn't affect me as bad because I, for the most part, am immune to it, unless they really alter the stuff as they did here." Jackal replied calmly, before motioning to his claw." As for if I still have it in me, I do. I am trying to collect enough so my body's immune system can make a cure for it, seeing as my body is able to break down the corruption and nullify it." He assures." But with all the different variants and alterations, I would need the original serum to completely cure it. Still, I am making steps one at a time."

"Are you saying that your blood could be used to make vaccines or even a cure?" Raven asked, looking at his claw.

"Exactly. And before you ask I am a mix between human, alien, and demon DNA. Like I said, complicated. But my blood is compatible with all humans and half-bloods I have met so far, so if you want to get a shot to protect against the corruption just ask; I won't force you or anything." The Titans looked between each other, debating the idea of having Jackal's blood inside of them before Cyborg speaks up.

"If you are willing to donate some of your blood for us to study, then we can use it to make our own vaccines or shots. I do have medical training and knowledge." Cyborg spoke, Raven nodding.

"As do I and I can assure that it doesn't do anything to others spiritually or magically," Raven added.

"Not that we don't trust you, we just-" Cyborg started.

"Want to be sure. I got it." Jackal finished." After I heal up I will give you some blood. But keep it a secret! The last thing I need is the Tainted Shadows getting some of my DNA." The Titans nodded, Raven beginning to relax slightly now that Jackal was being more open with them. Still, she couldn't help but wonder if what he said about his blood was true.

"Who are your other contacts in Jump city? I have a feeling Red X is not your only one." Asked Robin, getting the questions back on track." Also, why do you have so many safehouses?" After a bit of silence Jackal finally replied.

"I don't want to give up all my contacts in the city but some of them you know already. However, most of them are homeless people on the street. I let them stay in my numerous safehouses. They see and hear things that other people don't. As for why I have so many, it never hurts to be too careful. I have about a dozen of them throughout the city. And no, if I happen to leave the city the safehouses become self-sustaining; connected to the water systems and solar-powered with large batteries. They might only have a limited amount of food in them, but everyone deserves clean water and a roof over their heads.." The homeless population had been a bit of a problem in the city, and there were only enough shelters to go around. Still, it was surprising to hear that Jackal had employed them and given them some of his safehouses to stay in.

"That is very kind," Starfire remarked with a smile, all eyes on Jackal. Jackal seemed a bit embarrassed, shrugging as he leaned back in his seat.

"Yeah, well.. Not everyone is going to think so. Still, I couldn't just leave them be." Jackal answered, looking far older than he normally did as he stared at his claw. After a bit he perked up, smiling." Ok, next question."

"Do you have a lot of people using the houses, and do you they ever run out of hot water?" asked Beast Boy. Understanding his concern, James didn't mind sharing the bathtub or showers with anyone, but he knows that the Titans may be a bit shy about being naked around each other unless they have to; especially if they are with different genders.

"Depends on the houses and how many people using hot water at once. It almost happened a few times but was avoided when multiple people agreed to use the shower at the same time. Just please don't make too much of a mess if you are going to take group showers." Said Jackal, shaking his head as he remembered a trio of guests ended up flooding the whole bathroom, the water unable to be drained away because their clothes were covering the drains. The Titans looked between each other, light blushes on the face. What's more, is Robin and Starfire seemed to be avoiding each other's gazes, making Jackal smirk. Trying to get things back on track, Raven asked a question that she, and the Titans, had been wondering for a while.

"It's not that we don't trust you, but just what side of the law are you on?" She asked, decided to just be blunt and come out and say it. James and Jackal could feel the Titans gazing at them, but James noticed that Raven was only looking at Jackal with skepticism. Did that mean she didn't consider him untrustworthy? The thought made him smile slightly.

"Back home I was a Grey, neither a good guy or bad guy. Basically I helped solve or fight crime, but I also committed some crimes as well. I was a mercenary who did all sorts of jobs. The only jobs I wouldn't take were assassinations, kidnappings, or blackmails. I did what I had to do to live on my own after I was kicked out of the temple for my safety, back before my fourteenth birthday." Hearing this news the Titans were surprised to hear that he had to go on his own at that young age, wondering just why he was alone at that time.

"You mean you were kicked out of your home at thirteen? What happened?" asked Robin. Immediately the Titans can feel the air become tense, James clenching his fists as Jackal's eyes glints dangerously. Before they could retract their question James pats Jackal's leg, drawing his attention to James.

"It's ok Jackal. I figured this would come up sooner or later, and I trust them." James says calmly, Jackal nodding but still looking annoyed. Turning his attention back to the Titans James sighs then continues." There was a prophecy in the cult my mother was in..' A High Priestess will give birth to a half-blood son, blessed by the Light's gentle winds and cursed with Darkness' raging flames. From this union, he will be gifted with great power; power that can fight for the purity of life, or conquer under the fist of death. These powers shall be manifested on the cusp of youth, in the fourteenth year of birth.' Basically they thought that was me, seeing as my mother was a High Priestess. Most of the temple thought to try to kill me on the eve of my 14th birthday to keep the prophecy from coming true, so fearful of the risk of me taking sides against them. Mom arranged to have me taken out of my room while deep asleep and taken to safety, and out of the city. Haven't step a foot back in the temple since then." He finished with a sigh. He looked down at his palms, sorrow in his eyes as the Titans took in this information.

"I am so sorry James, we never knew," Starfire stated, flying over to wrap her arms around him.

"And I thought I had it tough." Beast Boy added, looking apologetic.

"I am sorry we made you go through that." Robin continued, James raising a hand to calm them. He smiled a bit, a strained small thing, but a smile nonetheless.

"It's ok. It's in the past. Now I just focus on the future." James replied, his smile becoming more genuine." Now I know all of you didn't want to hear about my sob story, so let's get back to the other questions. He blushed a bit as he realized Starfire was still hugging him, her chest pressed against his arm. Nearby Raven felt a bit of anger at the scene, both from hearing what he had been through but also seeing Starfire pressing her breasts against James' arms. Blinking a bit, Raven realized what she was thinking and calmed herself, hoping that no one had noticed and internally flinching as she spotted Jackal staring at her with a knowing smirk. With Starfire ending her hug and flying back to the others, the round of questions continued.

"What are your and Jackals powers and abilities?" asked Cyborg.

"Want to know what underwear I am wearing and what my kinks are too? Because all three topics are kinda personal to me." Jackal replied as he relaxed in his seat." Sorry, but that question I am going to have to respectfully deny answering for personal and private reasons." James rolled his eyes while patting Jackal's shoulder.

"Even I don't know the answer to that one, he seems to shift and change over time." James playfully answers Jackal, making a fake shocked expression.

"The nerve! You owe me for letting my secret slip." Jackal smirked before patting James' ass, James blushing and sitting up.

"For my abilities, I have magic, demonic abilities like shadow skills and manipulation of fire, as well as super strength and high stamina. In addition, I am also flexible to a certain degree and I am a skill lock picker, from my thieving days." Admits James. Out of habit James pulled Monogwaui, the amulet, out of his vest and begins to stroke the top of the skull like a worry stone. The raven skull is cawing softly to try to help soothe James despite not having any vocal cords and no muscles to move it jaw. BB is trying to ignore it but he can't shake the feeling that it is watching them with its nonexistent eyes.

"Why would anyone make such a thing?" asked the green Titan, looking a bit greener around his cheeks.

"Monogwaui can be used to hide your life signs as well as repel dark magic, voodoo, and necromancy. And yes, the tainted shadows use necromancy in war. Madame Bones, who made Monogwaui, specializes in that field. She is a close family friend and a powerful ally, a Voodoo Queen by her own skill." answered James as he tucks the amulet back into his vest pocket.

"Can you tell us more about her?" Jackal placed a hand on James' shoulder and shook his head.

"Best not to talk about someone when they aren't there. Besides, chances are you will meet her yourself. So leave any intense questions about her for when you meet her. Still, she is a nice gal, kinda like an older Starfire but with intensity like an older Raven. Think a loving mother that can be blunt as stone yet loving as Silky. Starfire beamed at the analogy as Silky cuddled against her cheek.

"I know it's a longshot, but do you know where the current HQ of the Tainted is located?" Asked Cyborg. Jackal glanced at Cyborg with an irked expression but then saw a pleading and hopeful look on James' face, his annoyance weakening.

"I have been in Jump City for a good while, but not enough to get a good enough layout in the city. I followed the Tainted here, which is why I showed up. Seemed they already had plans for this place or all of you. If you want to know what to look for then look for new places in the city, preferably clubs or bars and such, with a higher guard count or security. Knowing them they will have more than just one establishment but they prefer entertainment venues, places you can let loose. Be careful on scoping the places out because they're getting wiser on spotting anyone who has powers or could cause them trouble, and is quite skilled at keeping their more controversial actions hidden." There have been quite a few gambling and entertainment places that been popping up the last few months in different parts of the city. The police, of course, is keeping an eye on the gambling places, though so far there were no red flags on any of them but it didn't mean that they haven't been bought or bribed to look the other way. At least now that they have a couple of places to start, but they're still unsure about the mess with the Tower. Seeing his fellow Titans are eager to check on their home Cyborg decided to get up.

"Well I don't know about you guys, but I think that is enough questions for now. I'm going to check up on our home for now. You guys can ask any more questions if you want to." Cyborg clarified as he got up, heading to the generator room. Heading inside he makes his way to the desk Jackal set up for him, sitting down and plugging into one of the routers. Now that he trusted Jackal a bit more he decided it should be safe to use his equipment, opening up his wrist computer to pull up cameras that are set up on different parts of the island. With each camera that online Cyborg was able to see that the island was still mostly safe, nothing has come through the portal yet. Still, he ensured that the auto-turrets were functioning and even decided to bring a few of the more powerful defenses online. Back in the living room, the other Titans were becoming more relaxed after their talk session.

"I got some food in the fridge for dinner, even some pizzas in case you want to chow down," Jackal added.

"I recommend we wake up around three in the morning and leave around four after checking on the situation on the island. Once we know who we are dealing with, we can plan appropriately. Still, it is best if we stay on guard." suggested James.

"Why so early? I mean I get that we have to get back to the Tower, but why wait the night? Shouldn't we go now?" Asked Beast Boy, Raven is the one to answer.

"We have already been through a lot." Raven sighed." As much as I want to return home, I don't think it is a good idea to head there in this state."

"After a good night's rest, all of you should be healed up fine. Better to be prepared and refreshed." Added Jackal, getting more color back in his face. Looking around the room the Titans can tell just how tired and stressed they are, Beast Boy nodding in agreement that they are in no state to take the Tower back.

"Besides, the Tower's defenses should be able to keep most of the trouble at bay." Robin spoke up before facing James and Jackal." And maybe afterward we might be able to help you take back your home, Spellward. Didn't you say the Tainted had a strong foothold there?" Both James and Jackal are surprised, yet touched.

"We would be fools not to take up such an offer," James replied, smiling back at the Titans.

"We appreciate it, but first let's focus on getting the Tainted out of Jump City. Then we can worry about Spellward." Jackal finished, before sitting up." Now, time to chow down. I don't know about all of you but I am starving."

Dinner was a simple affair, with stories told between the Titans and James of the missions they had been on and the friends they had made. Every so often Jackal would add in a quip or a flirt, but for the most part, he kept focused on eating. Most of the gang had decided on pizza, and Jackal's fridge was stocked for the situation. When asked why he had so much pizza, Jackal actually blushed and shrugged.

"I like the zaa's, nothing wrong with that." He had replied, Beast boy grateful that he had plenty of vegetarian-friendly options. After dinner each of the Titans went to their respectful bedrooms, not resting before having a nice shower first. Good thing there was enough hot water. As mostly everyone rested Raven lay awake in the bed, her gaze looking around the room while also trying to keep comfortable. The room is painted in a calming purplish-pink color, while the ceiling is a deep sapphire blue. There is a large dresser and chest in the room so that they might store any clothing or supplies, the top of the dresser open to show some of their clothing. Currently, the large queen-sized bed is taken up by both of the female Titans, as well as Silky, though Raven is a bit irked as she shoves Starfire's foot out of her face. When she agreed to share the room with Starfire, she didn't expect for Starfire to be such a wiggler in bed or for Silkie to constantly trying to snuggle between them. It didn't help that both of them to snore slightly, Raven's eye twitching as she tried to make herself more comfortable. Her efforts to try and scoot more to the side of the bed were met with Silky snuggling against her head, nibbling slightly on her hair. Flinching slightly she pulled her hair from Silky's mouth, grunting slightly before she sat up and got out of the bed. Glancing at the alarm clock nearby, she laments that it is only eight o'clock, rubbing her eyes slightly before looking back at her bedmates. Already Starfire has shifted so that her body is spread out in the middle of the bed, her leg and Silky now occupying Raven's previous spot. Sighing softly, Raven moves to the dresser and gets what supplies she had asked for, leaving the room.

Looking back and forth along the hallway Raven debates with herself where would be a better place to get some rest. The whole house is quiet except the male Titan's rooms, the sounds showing that they are able to get a good rest despite the snoring. Her eyes drift to the couches in the living room and though they look comfortable she has many reservations on sleeping out in the open and so close to Jackal's room. She doesn't want to go back into the bedroom with Starfire, tired of having to push and fight for every inch of bed; she won't sleep in the boy's room with their snoring and what trouble it might bring. The computer room is off-limits because Cyborg might be awake and she doesn't know what devices are in there, and the training room isn't exactly comfy to sleep in. Grumbling slight she rubs her eyes, slowly looking down the hallway; to James' room. She debates with herself on whether it would be a good idea to share his bedroom with him, all sorts of thoughts and worries popping up in her mind. Eventually, however her need to sleep wins out, Raven slowly making her way to James' room. Opening the door quietly, she looks around the room.

It reminds her of her room in the tower; dark and quiet, peaceful and serene. Already she feels more at ease as she steps into the room, spotting James sleeping on the left side of the bed with his arms and legs around a large pillow, seemingly deep asleep. Stuffing her unease and pride down she makes a beeline for the bed, noting that the amulet from earlier is on the nightstand, seemingly watching her. She nods her head at the watching amulet, Monoqwaui letting out a very soft caw. Seeing that it seemed to give her its permission, Raven sets her clothes and mirror on the dresser nearby, smiling slowly as she pets the raven's skull. Monoqwaui lets out a cute quiet chirp in pleasure, Raven feeling more at ease before she turns to James in bed.

'This is only for tonight; we should be back home tomorrow or sometime soon.' Thought Raven as she carefully lifts up the covers and sneaks into the bed, already relaxing with how comfortable the bed feels. Snuggling carefully in the bed, she rests her head with a long sigh of pleasure, her eyes already feeling heavy. As she looks upon James' face she feels her heart flutter a bit, her cheeks flushing as she thinks on how close they are physically. Turning her back to him she tries to calm her thoughts, attempting to enjoy the comfort of the bed instead. Slowly closing her eyes, a small smile comes to her face as she relaxes.' Perhaps this wasn't such a bad idea after all.'

In the power room Cyborg narrows his eyes as he looks over the monitors, already picking up a massive disturbance in the portals. The portals flare with multicolored light, a strange bubble of protective magic coming from the portal and forming a large ring around it. From within the portal Cyborg can spot several outlines of people coming from within, their movements twitchy and reminding him of one of their old foes; the Puppet King. The bubble barrier prevents his defenses from attacking those inside of it, so he just watches as more and more shadows begin to come from the portal, sounds of a carousel coming from within the portal. As the figures cross the threshold of the portal, Cyborg's eyes widen as he sees they all seem to be living puppets, dressed in a colorful menagerie of clothing like ones a carnival troupe might wear. From clowns to strongmen to puppet lions and more, the troupe of puppets continues forward, their eerie laughter and circus music growing with their numbers. Many of the bigger ones seem to be carrying large poles and striped cloths, as well as other strange attractions and building supplies. Finally, someone who isn't a puppet steps through the portal, Cyborg's cameras locking onto the person as his defenses target the puppets leaving the bubble barrier.

"If you can't come to the show.." The woman speaks, her long hair dyed in red and black pigtails, her mad orange eyes searching the land under her top hat." Then I'll bring the show to you!"

I hope you like the story so far. Sorry that it takes me a while to update and thank you so much for not giving up on me. Feel free to toss any ideas my way or on how to improve the story. The next chapter is going to be a real circus for the heroes. R&R