I Can Stop the Pain
By Jackalobe
Here it is! The last chapter, ending this story, hope you like it!
Disclaimer: I do not own: The Teen Titans, Sleepy Hollow, 'If Only, If Only,' by Louis Sachar, Boulevard of Broken Dreams by Green Day, Sandra, Cyborg's song, Napoleon Dynamite, FallingDarkAngel's kick-boxing butterflies, In The End by Linkin Park, 'Precious Star' by we gots good grammar, Iris by The Goo Goo Dolls, and anything else featured in this story I did not write!
Phew. O.O
…Everyone must check this out, my friend showed it to me, I nearly flipped. (Hope you like Linkin Park and Teen Titans… and Robin/Starfire, by the way…)
http/wwwDOTtitanrisingDOTcom/media/apprenticestheknaveDOTwmv
Do not forget to replace the 'DOT's with actual dots… oh, and by the way, I DON'T OWN IT. And click it if you have a windows media player (I'm almost positive everyone has one…) It's so awesome…
By the way, I am so sorry for making people cry. Really, I am! Please forgive me!
Chapter Fifteen: More Than Love
Dear Diary,
It's been three years since 'The Incident', as we like to call it. Starfire seemed fully recovered from her trauma, and was nearly back to her old happy self. Nearly.
Beastboy, Robin, Cyborg, and I all agree that this is something that changed her. She will never truly be completely back to her old self. We brought her to therapy, and we even let her take a trip back to Tamaran. She told us she left her grief for her deceased parents and brother there, and she still keeps a positive attitude, and yet, kept some of her seriousness and depth. She became the best friend I ever had through… 'The Incident', and she and I still share that bond. Robin, Beastboy, and I know her better than anyone, and she knows that as well.
RedX and her still have their bond, and he eventually became an honorary Titan, after helping us out with villains from time to time. He sometimes stays over or has dinner with us. We all consider him a friend, even Robin.
What happened to the rest of us? I know I haven't been writing in a long time, so let me explain. After a few years since The Incident, Bee and Cyborg finally got married, and Bee moved in with us. Sandra? Sandra joined a super hero group somewhere in Rat City, we haven't heard a word from her in two years, and I'm very glad. Never liked her, and it is very safe to say I hate her. Hope she never comes back, that dumb bitch. Robin and Starfire share a room, still dating, and I've never seen her happier. Beastboy moved into my room, and of last month, proposed. I said yes (duh), I couldn't be any happier. A few days later, Bee announced she was pregnant. (Oh joy)
The end of the titans is coming; we are all starting to live different lives. Thankfully, we won't leave as enemies; I don't think we have ever been this close to each other.
I'm getting emotional, and it's going to be harder than hell to leave. At least I'll still have my Beastboy, or Garfield Logan. I'll still be Raven… soon to be Raven Logan. I see a happy future for us all, and Starfire knows this. It will be hard not living with my best friend, I hate the thought of it.
I guess it must be done, we can't stay teenagers forever. I'll keep the memories alive, I'll keep in touch. For now… I have to get married. X'hal, I think I'm going to squeal…
-Raven
Raven shut her diary, and packed it into her bag. She looked around the room sadly. Everything was packed, her books, her bed, her statues, everything but a full length mirror. She gazed at herself, admiring the beautiful silk wedding dress. The dress was a floor length, with an old fashioned corset top, and sleeves that fell off her shoulders. Her hair was pulled into a bun, with soft tendrils of hair framing her face. Her bouquet was picked and arranged by Starfire, with beautiful white and purple lilies, pink and white roses, and all of the other half demon's favorite flowers.
She gazed back at herself again, suddenly overcome with emotion and willed herself not to cry, 'Come on, suck it up! So what if you're getting married? Nothing to cry over. Besides you'll ruin your make up!' Raven rolled her eyes at herself. Ruin her make up? Puh-lease.
'Only a few more minutes to wait… you can do this, just breathe,' she thought to herself, exhaling and inhaling loudly. Yes, even she was freaking out on her wedding day.
A knock on the door disturbed her from her thoughts, and she called out shakily, "Come on in,"
The door opened, and Starfire walked in, all dressed and ready for the wedding. Her hair was up in a bun and she wore a green halter top maid of honor dress. Bee and a close friend of Raven's were the bridesmaids. "Oh Raven," she sighed, and smiled. "It's almost time for you to get married,"
Raven groaned, "I know… Oh God, I'm going to break every glass and plate there!"
"No you won't, just relax, breathe in…. breathe out…." Starfire ordered, and Raven obeyed. Starfire continued, "You are about to marry the man of your dreams… the man you want to spend the rest of your life with… he loves you, you love him, you will be happy together," It was a relaxing method she had gotten from her therapist.
Raven nodded, repeating the words. "Okay… I'm calm. Thanks,"
Starfire shook her head, "Raven, I just want you to love this day," A huge smile burst onto her face, and she looked fifteen, instead of twenty two. "Oh Raven, YOU'RE GETTING MARRIED!"
Raven did the unthinkable and spazzed, "I KNOW! Oh, god! I can't do this, Star, I can't be a wife! I'll make him miserable!"
Starfire's eyes softened, "Oh no you won't, he loves you so much, Raven. You make him too happy," Raven closed her eyes for a long time.
"I just can't do this," she spoke. "He should have this… pretty blond girl who is nice and actually laughs at his jokes… with a name like… Stacy or something…" She looked so confused, that Starfire didn't dare to laugh.
Starfire clasped Raven's hands tightly, "My friend, this is a new start, think of it as an adventure, as a new life! Say it, a happy new life,"
"A happy new life," Raven mumbled. "But Star-,"
"Raven, hush. I promise you, this is a good thing," Her alien friend said firmly. She turned Raven around so they both faced the mirror. Both stared into two beautiful young women, full of life and spirit, both seen death and worse, both felt love and bliss, both experienced and felt more than people usually feel in a lifetime.
Raven exhaled slowly, "Okay… I can do this,"
A knock on the door startled them both, and Cyborg's voice called from behind, "Raven? Time to get married, girl! Let's move it!" He was placing Raven's Father to deliver Raven and walk her up the aisle. Everyone agreed Trigon wasn't exactly a good idea…
Raven smiled confidently and opened her door; "Okay Victor, I'm ready," Bee had started calling him Victor ever since they got married.
Cyborg swore appreciatively, "Damn Rae, you look nice! You're going to make BB one happy man. Star what are you doing here? Bee's been going ballistic trying to find you, get down to the ceremony!"
Starfire nodded and floated down, winking at Raven on the way. Raven nodded back, and held her arm out to Cyborg. "Ready, Dad?"
Moments later, Raven and Beastboy stood next to each other, facing the minister who was currently giving a long sermon on marriage and love. Both were half listening, stealing glances at each other.
Beastboy felt himself begin to sweat, 'Oh god, what am I doing? I'm going to be a horrible husband! I'm as dumb as… as… I can't even think of anything to compare myself with! I'll never get a good enough job; I'll make Rae miserable… She'd be better off with someone else anyway! Some rich Italian guy… named Pavio or something…' His thoughts were cut off when he felt Raven entwine her fingers into his. She squeezed it, chasing all thoughts of doubt away, and gave him a reassuring and sweet smile. He grinned and mouthed 'I love you'. She nodded and mouthed it back. Both confident and ready, they faced the minister and began their vows. Beastboy went first, taking a deep breath and began.
"Raven… I've never been good at describing anything well enough, even the simplest things. And to even describe the way I feel for you …I just don't know where to start. God, Rae, (the minister glared sharply), you're beautiful, intelligent, poetic, reasonable, comforting, funny in your own sarcastic and sensible way, and honestly… you make me the happiest man alive. I know there's no one else out for me but you, and I am ready to spend the rest of my life with the women I love more than anything. I love you, Rae, I'll never stop, I couldn't, even if I tried."
Robin watched Beastboy give his vows and grinned proudly. He was happy to be the best man, and stole a glance at Starfire, who looked as though she were ready to burst into tears. She glanced back, and he winked. She blushed and smiled back.
Raven swallowed her tears and looked up at Beastboy, "Beastboy… Gar, I know that I'll never be happy if I don't marry you. I know I'll never be the same, if we can't be together. Every moment without you, is like removing my own limbs from me; it's painful, and I feel useless with you. No matter what happens, through hell or worse, I'll be satisfied just knowing you're with me," A singled tear slipped down her face, and he wiped it away gently. Starfire was sobbing silently behind them, and Bee and Cyborg were feeling the emotion, both dabbing their eyes inconspicuously. Robin remained dry eyed, but as proud as ever, smiling broadly.
The long speech of marriage continued, until Raven and Beastboy both declared their 'I do's. With a final breath, and smile, the minister finished.
"You may now kiss the bride,"
Everyone cheered as Beastboy beamed happily, and Raven practically flew into his arms, throwing her arms around him, kissing him happily. Keeping her emotions in check and in balance, with help and advice from her Mother, nothing shattered, burst into flame, melted or was mutilated in any way. Beastboy picked Raven up wedding style, spinning her around. All the guests got up, which included Titans East, many members of the Justice League, Raven and Beastboy's family and other friends, Cyborg, and even RedX, or Charlie as they all called him now.
"I'm the only single guy!" Charlie roared, half happy, half depressed. Starfire smiled sympathetically, and offered him a glass of wine. They had all gathered around a table, chatting happily.
"Ahh, you'll find someone, don't you worry." Robin declared, stuffing a chocolate covered cherry into his mouth.
Raven, still being carried by Garfield nodded, "Yeah, I have a friend over there that's single too," Raven said, pointing to a pretty girl with auburn hair, chatting amiably with Speedy and Aqualad, "I don't know if you like the whole 'Blind Date' thing, but do you want me to set you up? Her name's Molly, she's a really fun girl,"
Charlie grinned, "I don't really care about the blind date thing, but since she's here already, I'm just going to go stare at her until she feels so awkward… she'll have to talk to me,"
Robin and Beastboy both laughed, and Starfire and Raven both looked as though they didn't know whether to laugh or frown. Charlie set off with a wry smile, walking over to the table, where Molly sat, looking a bit shy. Speedy and Aqualad had left, just as a slow song came on, holding hands and smiling. (A/N: AWW!)
Robin, Starfire, and Raven all began talking about how Speedy and Aqualad had become a couple, when Beastboy suddenly remembered to ask the hired D.J. to play a certain song both he and Raven loved, a song. The song, Iris by The Goo Goo Dolls, happened to be his and Raven's song as of a few months ago. He had asked for it to be played especially for them. He strolled over to Raven, who had left to go explain to Molly why a creepy guy was staring at her.
"Oh, so that's why?" Molly asked her eye brows raised high.
"Yeah, pretty much," Raven affirmed.
"Why doesn't he just-,"
"I don't know, he's just a weird,"
"…Yeah, but hot, hmm… I'll go talk to him. Oh! And congratulations Raven! Beautiful vows," Molly called, walking over to where RedX seemed to be crouched between two statues, staring intently.
Beastboy came up behind Raven, and breathed softly into her ear. She jumped and turned around, "Idiot," she muttered, but smiled.
He laughed, "Your idiot, dear wife,"
She smiled and nodded, "Yes indeed good husband," He grabbed her hand gently, leading her over to a spot of grass not far from the D.J. table, a small secluded area.
"Where are you taking me?" Raven asked.
"Oh, you'll see in a moment," Guitar music came on, perfect timing, and she smiled. "Oh… our song," He nodded, holding out his hand.
"Please dance with me," he whispered.
'And I'd give up forever to touch you
Cause I know that you feel me somehow
You're the closest to heaven that I'll ever be
And I don't want to go home right now'
She grabbed his hand, smiling. In all their years together, dancing had always been her spirit. She gracefully spun around, as he embraced her softly, hugging her to him. Refusing to let go…Perfection was nothing compared to this moment. It was more than hallmark, or Kodak, it couldn't be ruined for them. Time stopped for them, no air planes flew, and people's voices faded away. It was just them, dancing.
'And all I can taste is this moment
And all I can breathe is your life
Cause sooner or later it's over
I just don't want to miss you tonight'
Starfire walked near her garden, watching the flowers wave softly as the wind brushed across them. It was like a greeting. She had escaped the wedding a moment, just to take a moment and walk through her garden. To do this, she always had to be two things: Barefoot and happy. She had taken off her shoes a while ago, she enjoyed the earthy feeling she felt when walking without shoes. She had also taken her hair down, letting her red hair run loose. She was happy for Raven, nothing could ruin this day for her friend.
She felt a pair of arms wrap around her waist. A low voice rumbled into her neck, "Hello my Star," She grinned leaning back into Robin.
"Hello dearest Robin," She let him lead her over to her favorite place. A secluded spot between the rose vines and lilac hedges, were forget-me-nots lay in full bloom. He sat down, leaned up against a wall, breathing in the intoxicating scent of her, and the garden. She sat in front of him, in-between his legs, leaned up against him.
'And I don't want the world to see me
Cause I don't think that they'd understand
When everything's made to be broken
I just want you to know who I am'
Raven, oblivious to the world around her, leaned in and kissed Beastboy softly on the mouth. He his forest green eyes, boring deep into her soft lavender eyes. They were made for each other, both there to catch whenever the other was falling. It seemed every moment was precious, in their eyes. Nothing was wasted, it didn't matter what other's thought. They cared deeply for each other, reaching a love that most yearned for, dreamed about. The only words to express to each other were, 'I love you,' but both knew it was more than that, so much more.
And you can't fight the tears that ain't coming
Or the moment of truth in your lies
When everything seems like the movies
Yeah you bleed just to know your alive
Starfire and Robin heard the music, listening intently. Their lives and memories entwined each others, both recalling things of their past. Both remembered two years ago, when everything could have been ruined, when Starfire felt her grief and depression overwhelm and take over her body. She hadn't fully recovered, and the thought made Robin's blood run cold. If she ever left him, he couldn't bare it. He'd probably kill himself, just to see if they could be together, in heaven, hell, or any other spiritual force where he and she could remain together forever. As thought reading his thoughts, she took his hands into hers, setting them into her lap. It was a loving reassurance, and Robin breathed easy once more.
And I don't want the world to see me
Cause I don't think that they'd understand
When everything's made to be broken
I just want you to know who I am
Raven and Beastboy danced, under the moonlight, Robin and Starfire watched the stars fade and wink. Their heart beats matched, their breathing equal to each others, the two pair of lovers stopped the talking and scene around them. Hand in hand, they bravely held each other, ready for whatever was to come.
I don't want the world to see me
Cause I don't think that they'd understand
When everything's made to be broken
I just want you to know who I am
I just want you to know who I am
I just want you to know who I am
Raven and Beastboy both parted, kissing once more, and the scene, voices, and environment around them returned once more.
I just want you to know who I am
I just want you to know who I am
Starfire and Robin both opened their eyes, sitting back up. Starfire helped him up, and kissed his lips softly. "You know I love you, don't you?" she said, a true look of happiness on her face. "It gives me more than just a reason to live,"
Robin gazed at her lovingly, "Yeah, I do, and I love you too," Hand-in-hand, they walked back to the party.
Love can be described as anything, from a beautiful bird, to a blooming rose. Love can be described as dancing, as love making, as simply just sitting together, watching the flowers bloom and the stars fade.
Love can save a life, as well as cost one. Love might just be a deep affection, or a strong sense of friendship, but whatever it truly is… it never dies.
Hand-in-hand, step-by-step, both couples remained happy. They lived their lives, remaining together. Their love remained as strong, if not stronger, from the day they kissed, to the day they died.
Simple things can be better than saying 'I love you,' -reassurances. Like, 'I'm there for you,' or 'I'll never forget you,'
Some things that don't need to be said, like dancing, or something said that changes their life, like, 'I can stop the pain.'
Starfire and Robin married a half a year later, and moved to a nice suburb with a huge garden, and two daughters. Raven and Beastboy stayed in the city, living together in a nice apartment with a son. Bee and Cyborg remained in the city as well, with three children, two boys and a girl.
Their memories never died, and they remained friends. After death, who knows? Maybe Starfire finally got over her sadness, or maybe Raven finally was able to show emotion. Of course, nothing is certain. Nothing is certain, but love.
I'm done… should I cheer? Hmm… sorry, no sequel! Working on my college story a lot now, possibly starting a different story…
Thanks- I'd love to thank all my REVIEWERS! I dedicate this story to them all! They are the reason I continue writing, I appreciate them all so much! Thanks for always being there, you guys, you rock so much, and I bet you don't even realize it… Love you all!
Now, I must answer reviews! For the last time for this story… -sniff-
hackmeister: Really? I think it should be about RedX and her becoming friends or something… but rivalry between her and her sister would be cool! Thanks for your opinion!
we gots good grammar: Hello there! I confused you? Sorry about that. Beastboy's bright ideas? Yeah, they're brilliant, lol. I MADE YOU CRY? I'm sooooooo sorrrrryyyyyy! I always hate knowing I made people cry, I feel so bad. Well, I'm sorry. Oh! And I don't think you should rewrite your poem, I don't think there's anything wrong with it! New college update? Well, I'll be gone until Wednesday, but I'll definitely update when I get back! Thanks for being a great reviewer!
Soycaliente: I'm so happy you like it and I'm glad you've been one of my reviewers! You rock, I loved your reviews! Don't be a stranger!
StarfireTT: Story alert? Awesome, I am very flattered! I remember I read a fic where Starfire cut herself… I really liked it; it had a god plot and good author! Forgot about it… I'll search for it later! I'm real sorry I made you cry! –Hands tissues- Sorry! Smiles make the world go round! (That will just be a box… -sigh-) :) :( / …anyhoo! YAY, A GORE FAN! I love horror so much! Yay! –high fives you, because I'm a loser- Glad I have such an awesome fan, loved your review!
Avovito: Sorry about the confusion! But I'm happy you understand now. Thanks for being a really good reviewer! Don't be a stranger!
Pinkflamingo: Hello, friend! I know, this is so weird to be writing the last chapter… So strange! I don't like it. But it must be done… You really think this would make a good Starfire season? Ohh that would be fun. All the little kids… crying… angry parents… moo-hoo-hahahaha! Lol, I'm happy you were always a loyal reviewer! Don't be a stranger!
InkBlotted Chakra: That stupid bitch will never come back… hopefully. Ahh, I never added her in, I thought it would just make Starfire go all 'depressed' again, and I didn't want that to happen. One of the best chapters? Yeah, out of my story, I'd have to agree. Thanks for being a great and supportive reviewer!
MyMonkeyIsOrange: Thank you! And awesome penname, by the way.
cRiTiC123: Thanks for being a great reviewer! Love ya, and don't be a stranger!
PaintingYourEmotions: Seriously? Thank you. I'm touched! I'm glad you reviewed for me; I loved all your reviews!
ChocolateTruffle: Does nothing but drools at your penname. –Hands you note- Note: Thanks for being an awesomely awesome (wow that was lame…) reviewer! Sorry about all the gore, hope you weren't too uncomfortable! Glad you enjoyed the happy endings! I'm off to clean up this drool bye!
Twistedpaperclip: Two things: Brilliant penname, and thank you!
StarfireLover: Thank you! Glad you like my story!
Jaina 12: Yeah, I know what you mean… do you think I did that well, her recovery from depression? I thought therapy might have helped her, thanks for the advice! Everyone loves RedX in this story… even me! –Huggles RedX plushy doll- Lol, thanks for being a supportive reviewer!
Staremerald: Thank you! You are most kind!
PhoenixOnFire: As always? Why thank you! (Got your review on 'While You Were Out', your review was my favorite.
BlazeFire: -Feels bad for making you cry- SORRY! I really am!
SecretNight: Thanks!
Samanthe2121: Hmm… how would you hurt me? Joking, thank you so much!
Momiji-momo: I love you enthusiasm, no one has enough of that! Thank you so much, you are awesome!
Cheerfully Oblivious: -cheers- Hello! I'm happy you like the quotes, and will that one quote by Beastboy really remain with you forever? SWEET! –Does a victory dance- I'm glad you like the Rae/Star friendship, my favorite friendship pairing! Just love writing it, too! Sorry about the Terra bashing. –Sends peace offering of gummy bears- Really, I am! I'm glad you like my story, your reviews make me smile!
Alright… done. AHH! WHAT DO I MEAN, DONE? WHAT ABOUT A POLL!
Everyone: -cheers- A poll! Hurra!
Rose: Now, friends, this is serious. This is a poll I'd like you all to take to give me tips on future writing styles-
Everyone: A POLL! YAY!
Rose: -sigh- fine…
Please answer all honestly, I won't be offended, and if I am, I won't show it!
Poll: And please answer!1. What did you like most about this story?
2. What, basically, sucked? (And please mention all the things you didn't like!)
3. What did you find the saddest?
4. What did you find the funniest?
5. What character did you like the most?
6. What character did you like the least?
7. What do I need to work on, in future chapters?
8. What was your favorite chapter?
9. Would you have liked it more, if Starfire ended up killing herself?
10. Do you think I made Starfire's past sound realistic?
11. Any stories you would recommend to me, for later reading?
12. Socks, slippers, or barefoot? Which do you prefer?
13. Would you rather live in… the country, the city, or the suburbs?
14. What's your favorite type of music?
15. Are you a full supporter of Trigon/Starfire and Larry/Rorek? YOU CAN BECOME ONE! JOIN ME! –hands you t-shirts and pamphlet- BECOME A FULL TIME SUPPORTER! IT ROCKS! (…omg, lol)
Thank you! I love you all, thanks for being such faithful and happy reviewers, you guys inspire me to update, and rewrite! Thanks for everything.
Signed:
-Rose