Athos had a strange feeling he was being watched. Something was not quite right. Is he imagining things or was someone out to get him. Read and find out.

Chapter One

The sun shone down onto the dry streets of Paris, children played and chased each other around as stall holders haggled with potential customers, one man nearly receiving a wack for offering too little for a vase, too hot to argue the man smirked and walked away almost colliding with the children as they continued to chase each other, the man sat on a nearby wooden bench, took out a water skin and quenched his thirst.

He watched the children for a minute before catching the eye of the tallest boy

the man held out the water skin, " Drink boy" he asked. The boy glared in his direction and approached with caution," No thanks monsieur my mother told me not to talk to strangers, and you talk odd".

"Ahh very wise boy, your mother is right, but you see I am lost and looking for

certain place around here, maybe you can help me".

The boy eyed him, " What place would that be monsieur".

"I am looking for The Kings Musketeers, I have heard they reside in these parts

The boy sniffed and wiped a dirty hand across his dust ridden face,

" Ohh thats easy monsieur" he said pointing behind some houses.

" Its the next street behind those houses, thats their Garrison," he answered

" Are you going to be a Musketeer Monsieur". The man laughed at the child

and shook his head, " Oh they wouldnt want me my friend" he said.

The man smiled and tossed the boy a coin, " Why thank you boy". The boy

shrugged and joined his friends. "Merci monsieur" he yelled over his shoulder and

he was gone.

The man watched as they went, before looking off towards where the boy had

pointed out the Garrison. He smiked to himself as he once again raised the

waterskin to his lips.

Chapter 2

The Musketeer Garrison was its usual bustling enviroment as the recruits sparred with each other, steel hitting steel and raised voices of the men giving out the orders.

Aramis and d'Artagnan circling each other as they sparred, watched by the younger boys of the recruits. Both mens shirts soaked with sweat.

" Think thats enough for now boy's" growled Porthos, " take some water".

" You are dead Aramis", teased d'Artagnan pointing the tip of his sword towards the marksmans chest as they both stood down from the spar.

Aramis smiled as he patted d'Artagnans shoulder," I dont think so my friend, I easily had you then".

d'Artagnan swilled his face with cold water from his waterskin and looked at Aramis with a grin, " You stopped in mid fight mon ami".

Porthos laughed aloud, "Will you two give it up, it was just sparring afterall".

Athos was sitting at their usual table as the three men joined him, he glanced up at his brothers with a slight grin.

" Tell me you where watching us spar Athos my friend" asked Aramis sitting opposite the swordsman, " I was mon ami and noticed that you dArtagan where not keeping an eye on your surroundings like I taught you".

dArtagnan pulled a face," But Athos I was keeping watch on my surroundings"

" One eye not both my friend" deadpanned Athos. Porthos roared with laughter patting Athos on the shoulder. Aramis smirked at dArtagan," Told you mon ami" he smirked.

dArtagnan leaned his face on both his elbows and sulked. Aramis took a swig from the waterskin and patted the Gascon on the back, " Never mind my friend maybe next time".

Athos looked straight at Aramis and raised an eyebrow, " And you my friend are a show off, you love all the attention from the recuits"

dArtagnan grinned at the marksman as he smiled at his luitennant from across the table. " You know me Athos, I like to make it look good, but saying

that when It comes to the farer sex I am better than good". Athos rolled his eyes with a smirk.

Porthos was still laughing at his brothers banter as Serge arrived with food,

" Here you go boys, some bread, cheese and ham to keep your strength up"

he said placing it down on the table.

" Why thank you Serg, that looks very tasty" said Aramis glancing up at the

veteran musketeer.

The four musketeers ate and drank ale in the late afternoon sun.

Athos finished eating and sat back against the wall putting his hat over his face against the sun.

" What say we have another sparring session my friends" said d'Artagnan glancing towards Aramis with a grin.

Porthos swigged back some ale and looked at him, " Have you not had enough, besides its too bleedin ot, go and spar with the new lads".

Aramis smiled at the Gascon, " We are off duty now my friend, besides I am staying here to keep Athos company".

" You are most kind mon ami" said a voice from underneath the hat, " But dont worry yourself about me, I am quite content, if you wish to spar you go right ahead".

" No my dear Athos I shall remain in your company along with Porthos" replied the marksman refilling everyones tankard with ale.

d'Artagan shrugged his shoulders, " Fine suit yourselves my friends" he said walking away towards the group of recuits.

" I feel guilty now" said Aramis watching the young man join the group.

" Don't fret my friend, you know how he likes to spar as often as he can".calmed Athos placing his hat back on his head. " He is young and likes to train our new boys".

" You talk as though you are an old man mon ami" grinned Aramis patting Athos on the shoulder.

Porthos laughed, " Indeed, you are not much older than him yourself my friend".

Athos glanced at his two brothers and gave them a rare smile, " Maybe I just feel like I am sometimes". he answered

Aramis smiled, " Probably on nights when you walk or should I say hobble from the Wren".

"You mean nights when I have to carry him home, because he can't walk in a straight line". Chuckled Porthos.

" And I appreciate your help immensely mon ami" smirked Athos,. nudging into the big mans shoulder. " You know I would do the same for you".

" Indeed I would like to see that" laughed Porthos," you would never lift my frame".

Aramis and Athos exchanged smiles as Porthos roared with laughter.

That moment Treville appeared above them from his office, the three men glanced towards the steps as their Captain desended. " I thought I could hear you boys" he said, " I think I would know that laugh of yours anywhere Porthos"

" It has been known to echo through the densest of forests Captain" grinned Athos patting the mans shoulder.

" And the largest of Monastery's" added Aramis.

" Yes and the Garrison, when I am trying to do my paperwork" laughed Traville.

"Will you be joining us at the Wren later Captain", asked Porthos.

The older man looked at the three young men and raised an eyebrow.

" I would, but paperwork beckons son, I may have a few fine brandy's".

" Sounds good captain, maybe you need company". grinned Athos

Treville eyed his lieutenant and smirked," You young man will be joining your friends at the Wren, what Athos has failed to mention is that the last time he helped me with the paperwork he finished off my fine brandy".

Aramis and Porthos laughed aloud eyeing their brothers face as he grinned and popped a piece of cheese into his mouth.

" Isn't that the morning you almost missed muster my friend", grinned Aramis winking at Porthos. " Ah yes I do recall that mon ami". added the big man.

" Miss muster... er did I" asked Athos. "I do not recall that".

Aramis cupped the back of the swordmans neck, " Er yes you did" he smirked back.

Chapter 3

One day later...

Athos tilted his head to the shop owner as the man handed him the package.

" I thank you Sir, you have been most kind, I am certain my friend will be best pleased".

The old man smiled, " Glad to do buisiness with one of the Kings elite guard my friend".

With that Athos left the shop. He walked down the steet that headed to the Garrison.

The day was still hot and humid, dust rose up from the ground as carts pulled by horses rode by, the hustle and bustle of the stall holders banter swept through the air as the swordsman walked. Athos felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand up on end and the sense of being watched as he walked, making him stop in his tracks and slowly turn around, his green eyes scanned the market square slowly but he observed nothing untoward his hand had rested on the pommel of his sword. Athos turned the corner and walked towards the Garrison.

Walking across the courtyard, young recuits where sparring with one another.

He knew his brothers would be returning soon from Palace duty, so he just had enough time to put the package in a safe place until he needed it.

Placing the wrapped package into a drawer and covering it with a blanket, Athos turned and walked from his room towards Trevilles office.

Treville glanced up as he heard the knock and Athos'face poke in from around the door.

" Ah Athos, just the person said Treville holding up a sealed parchment.

" I need one of the men to take this to The King right away, he needs my report about the missing gunpowder". Athos nodded towards the older man.

" I 'll take it, Roger could do with a run" Treville looked up at the younger man and smiled.

" Fine if thats what you want son" he answered handing Athos the letter.

" I should be half the hour at best" said Athos placing the letter into his doublet pocket. The others should be back soon anyhow". That moment the two men could hear the sound of hooves and the snorting of the horses.

" You worry me sometimes Athos, the way you have certain timings right".

Athos smiled as he opened the door to leave, " Just a mere coinsidence Captain, nothing more." he said closing the door behind him.

Treville watched as the door closed behind his lieutenant, he shook his head with a slight smile, picked up his quill and carried on writing.

Athos replaced his hat on his head and decended the stairs from Trevilles office.

He could hear his brothers banter as he walked towards the stables.

Porthos noticed him first, " Athos my friend, you look like you are going somewhere".

" Thats because my dear Porthos I am taking a letter to The King".

The stable boys were removing the sadles from the horses, and leading them to the water drough. Henri glanced at Athos, " I shall make Roger ready Sir" he said.

Athos gave a nod at the boy. Aramis removed his doublet and and drank from his waterskin. " Very hot out there today mon ami" he said patting Athos' shoulder. " Make sure you take enough water with you".

Athos pulled his waterskin from Rogers saddle and held it up, " Already done my friend" he answered. " Besides I shall be back in haste, before supper".

" We could have given the letter to the king" said d'Artagnan swilling water over his face".

Athos was replacing his waterskin into his saddle bag, he buckled it down and turned to face the gascon, " Treville has only just finished it, I volunteered to take it". he replied. He turned to look at his brothers, he couldn't help thinking about the feeling that came over him earlier in the market square.

" Did you pass anyone on your way back here" he asked nodding at Henri as he let him know Roger was ready.

Aramis glanced at him, " No, why do you ask mon ami" Athos mounted his steed and glanced down at them. " Oh just a feeling, just be extra careful if you go anywhere, I will return for supper". With that Athos kicked Roger into a trot and headed through the garrison archway, leaving his three brothers watching as he disappeared from view.

" Why dont I like the sound of that" asked Aramis glancing at the others.

Porthos patted his friends shoulder," Come my friend, we know Athos can take care of himself". Aramis gave him a wry smile as they walked across the courtyard. d'Artagnan watched his brothers he couldn't help but think about what his mentor had said. Serge brought them out of their thoughts as he emerged carrying a tray of ale and tankards for the men.

" Come you boys nice cold ale" he said with a grin.

Athos was admitted into the kings chamber, he walked towards Louis, stopped and bowed at the waist, " Your majesty" he said. " I bring the letter from Captain Treville, he was most adament you recieved it this day".

Louis smiled as he took the sealed parchment from the musketeers hand.

" Ah good, I see he sends one of his best men with it, thats what I like about Treville he always gives his upmost best", he said turning to a few of his courtiers and grinning. They bowed and smiled back.

The king eyed Athos, " I did not observe you at the Palace this morning" he asked. Athos lowered his head again. " My off duty day Your Majesty, I had errands to attend".

Louis pulled a strange face as he looked at his Queen and grinned, " I almost forgot that musketeers have a life also" he laughed. " What errands?".

Athos caught the eye of Anne for a second, he could almost read her mind as though she just wanted her husband to shut up.

The Queen took hold of her husbands hand and smiled at him,.

" I think Your Majesty, it is not any of our buisiness what the musketeers do in their own time". she said softly glancing at Athos.

Louis looked at her with a grin," Just jesting with the man my love, you are so gullable". he laughed glancing back at Athos.

Athos just wanted to leave, he was feeling quite hungry now and just wanted to return to have supper with his brothers. Sometimes the King just liked to show off in front of his courtiers, and he felt like the brunt of it.

" You are dismissed Athos" he said waving the man away. Athos bowed once more," Your Majesties" he said before being escourted from the chamber.

Athos walked to the Royal stable, Roger snorted and nodded his head up and down knowing his master was back. Athos took out a carrot from his pocket and gave the horse the treat. He patted the animals nose and mounted into the saddle taking out the waterskin he took a swig and placed it back into the bag. " Come on, lets get back home" he whispered into the hores ears.

Athos rode from the Palace towards the road home, he noticed clouds starting to build up in the distance he knew that this hot weather would brake at some time, whether it would be this night or on the morrow.

Athos slowed down to a trot as he noticed an overturned cart on the road.

" Woah", he ordered Roger as they came to a stop. Athos dismounted and took his pistol from his belt as he scanned the area. he could see noone except a leg sticking out from underneath the cart but no horse. Athos walked to the other side of the cart as he still kept his eyes fixed on his surroundings. He looked down as he notice what looked like a farmer who was clearly dead looking at the face. Athos noticed the cart was empty except for bits of straw.

He turned on his heel still scanning around, pistol in hand he took Rogers riens and mounted the steed. Athos noticed four monks walking towards him, two in front and two behind. They stopped in their tracks as they noticed the cart with the man laying dead.

" What happened monsieur" asked one of the monks.

Athos looked at him, " I have only just noticed him myself" he replied. " I think the horse came loose and bolted".

The monks walked over to the cart and one of them started to resite a prayer, Athos still scanned the area finding the whole saga strange.

" You seem a long way from the nearest monastery brothers" enquired Athos as he watched them from his saddle.

" We are paying a visit to the Palace monsieur" replied one man approaching him. Athos eyed him, there was something about his accent, as though he was not a native Frenchman.

Suddenly from nowhere a shot rang out making Athos brandish his musket.

"DROP! your weapons musketeer or your brains will be spread over this road" Athos slowly dropped the musket to the ground and glanced up as the four monks approached him, tearing off their habbits as they walked. One of them kicked the pistol away as he brandished his own weapon.

"And that also means your sword belt" came the voice from behind.

"Get down from your horse, and dont bother trying anything stupid"

Athos turned to see the man that had fired the shot, he knew the face but couldn't think where from. He was certainly the leader of this gang.

" So you killed an innocent man just to ambush a musketeer, I must say you are such heroic men"

"Shut your mouth musketeer, you are coming with us" yelled the leader.

Athos dismounted Roger, the horse snorting at his master as though he knew somethig was wrong.

" Tie his wrists"

Athos was pushed from behind, his hands bound behind his back, making him wince with the tightness of the hemp.

" May I enquire as to what you want with me" asked Athos

The leader swung his fist up into Athos' face splitting his lip, Athos wiped his face against Rogers coat.

" You will find out soon enough musketeer" replied the leader.

Athos whispered in his horses ear, " Go boy go". That second Roger reared up and galloped off into the trees.

They all watched as the stallion disappeared from view. One of the men went to fire his pistol, Athos threw himself at the mans arm knocking the pistol from his grip.

Athos was helpless as the man brought down his musket and hit out at him on the back of the head. Everything went black.

The sun was starting to wane giving the garrison an orange glow as evening approached.

" Serge must be the best cook this side of Paris", growled Porthos finishing off his chicken stew and soaking up his gravy with bread.

Aramis shook his head as he eyed the big man. " What" Porthos asked catching his eye.

" You really are a pig my friend" he grinned taking a swig of wine.

d'Artagnan laughed, " Three bowls he has polished off, I hope you've saved enough for Athos".he said watching him.

Porthos looked up and poured more wine into his goblet, " Serge always make lots, anyway you know a fly eats more than Athos". he grinned

Aramis and d'Artagnan exchanged glances with a grin, " That does not mean you can eat the lot mon ami". chuckled Aramis.

Porthos belched aloud making the others laugh, " You have such fine table manners my friend" said dArtagnan winking across at Aramis. " I just hope we never dine with his majesty on any occasion".

Porthois laughed out load and patted the Gascon on his shoulder. " I dont like to see good food go to waste my friend".

"Really I would never have thought that" laughed Aramis pouring out wine into three goblets. He looked towards the garrison gates. " Athos should be back by now".

" You know what the King is like when he starts talking" replied Porthos " Poor Athos is probably on his way now".

" Yeah he must be hungry by now," said d'Artagnan " Thirsty knowing our Athos" grinned Porthos.

That minute hooves and a snort was heard making the three men turn and look towards the garrison gateway. They all caught each others confused glances as they looked over to see Roger trot onto the courtyard by himself.

Aramis was first up followed by the others, the horse was snorting and walked towards the water trough to drink. dAtagnan hurrried out of the gates scanning around for his mentor.

Porthos and Aramis caught each others eyes with concern, " Where the hell is he, I knew something was wrong before he left." said Aramis joining d'Artagnan at the gates and looking up and down the square.

" I dont like the look of this Aramis" said a clearly worried d'Artagnan slamming his hand into the gate. "WHERE IS HE"! he yelled making passers by glance up at him.

Aramis led d'Artagnan back ito the courtyard and squeezed his shoulder.

" We will find him mon ami, I promise" he said looking over to Porthos who was still holding on to Rogers reins. " Look at this" he said placing his hand against the animals coat.

Both Aramis and d'Artagnan followed the big mans gaze as he pointed to the blood stain. Aramis felt his stomach churn and a lump form in his throat as he put his fingers over the stain. " Mon Dieu no, no" he gasped. Tears welled in d'Artagnans eyes, he felt helpless, what had happened to his brother and mentor.

"Come lets go and inform Treville" growled a worried Porthos handing the reins to the stable boy. The boy nodded, " I will feed and water him Sir". he said taking the reins and leading the animal into the stable. Porthos gave a nod and joined his brothers as they headed towards their captains office.

Treville led his men down the steps and across the courtyard towards the stables.

" I have sent word to the king as to what has happened, so I will be joining you boys in our search for Athos". said Treville as they walked towards the stables. " We will take the road to the palace".

The four men mounted in silence, Porthos caught Aramis eyes, both thinking the same thing and hoping they found their brother safe and well.

Chapter 4

The pain in his head was excrusiating made worse by each cobble the cart went over in the road. Athos felt nausea taking over his stomach, the bile coming up in his throat. At least he was on his side he thought, not that that helped matters with his hands tied behind his back. He could hear the faint banter from the bandits, something in their accent was different. Athos knew he had heard it before and looking at the tattoo's the men had, Pirates, they where Pirates. But what did they want with him.

He wasn't sure how long he had been unconcious or even how long they had been traveling, but the sun had gone down and it wasn't quite dark yet. The sky above had started to darken looking as though rain was on the way. Athos couldn't make out where they where but he knew something he was hungry and thirsty. He also knew Roger would have ran back to the Garrison and his brothers would be out looking for him. Suddenly he heard raised voices and the cart stopped. He could hear the men talking among themselves. Athos was then aware of being man handled and grabbed from the cart, he was pushed to his feet almost losing his balance.

" We are stopping for food" one of the men said to him as he was thrown to the ground and tetherd to the cart by two of the men. Athos had counted about eight in the gang each very well armed. They sat around eating and drinking before the leader walked towards Athos the same stupid smirk on his face. He looked down from his standing position and threw him some bread and cheese, he turned on one of the men. "Untie his hands while he eats, and watch him" he said.

Athos picked up the bread and started to eat, " At least give me the curtousy of telling what you want with me". he asked glacing at the leader. The man eyed him. " You will soon find out musketeer". he seethed. " You are Pirates are you not" asked Athos watching the leaders face. " How most observent of you musketeer "he answered sarcastically.

Chapter 5 -

Treville, Aramis, Porthos and d'Artagnan had reached the spot where Athos had disappeared. Aramis had crouched down to feel the dead farmers pulse, he shook his head at Treville.

" There's blood here" growled Porthos studying the ground, the others joined him as he scratched at the stone, Aramis exchanged a concerned look with Treville. d'Artagnan appeared from behind a group of trees, holding up monk habits, " Looks like our bandits where dressed as monks" he said. " I have counted about five," He held up a pistol, " and this is Athos' musket"

" BASTARDS"! growled Porthos," pretending to be men of God" It was now starting to lose light but something caught Aramis' eye as what light left shone on the steel sword. Aramis moved over to what he had noticed and felt nauseous as he picked up the weapon. " Its Athos' sword, and main gouche" he said gulping back the lump in his throat. Treville crouched down as he noticed the cart wheel tracks as they headed off into the trees. d'Artagnan followed them so far before returning to the group. " Looks like they are heading north Captain" he said. Treville stood to his feet nodding. " We wont be able to see any tracks soon, the light is fading fast, we should head back to the garrison and get some rest, we will head out at first light "

Aramis glared at Treville, he walked up to the older man, his face like thunder.

" WHAT"! Rest we have no time for rest, Athos could be in mortal danger " he almost screamed out the words, making Porthos and d'Artagnan turn to glance at each other. Porthos took Aramis by the upper arm to calm him, but Aramis pulled away from his grip and walked towards his horse.

Treville lowered his head and scratched the back of his head. " He is worried about Athos Captain" said Pothos watching his elder, "We all are".

Treville nodded, " He's right Porthos, we should carry on, lets saddle up before its completely dark".

Aramis mounted his horse, he felt for the Crucifix around his neck and looked at it, he kissed it and tucked it back into his shirt.

The four men rode along the gritty road still following the cart tracks, the fading light making it more difficult. The tracks running off into the forrest ahead, they had been following for at least a couple of hours.

Treville rode ahead followed by Aramis then Porhtos and d'Artagnan.

d'Artagnan glanced to his right at Porthos, " I hope we find him soon, I hate the fact that they have tricked Athos by dressing up as monks". he said.

Porhtos sighed as he carried on looking ahead, " I will kill the bastards if anything happens to him" he seethed. " But Athos is not stupid, he would have

suspected something was wrong".

Treville stopped ahead and held up his hand, he turned his horse to face the three men.

" This is useless men we can't see anything in the dark" he said, " We will set up camp and move off at first light".

Aramis nodded as he turned to the others, " I'll build a fire" said Porthos dismounting his horse.

d'Artagnan was tethering the horses to the nearest tree as Aramis took the bed rolls from each mount ready to set out for each man. He gave d'Artagnan a sad looking smile, The Gascon put his hand on his friends shoulder, " We will find him" he calmed. Aramis looked at him and patted the young mans bisep with a nod, " I know".

Porthos got the fire to a roaring glow, the men sat round eating the bread and cheese that Serg had given them before they left.

" Why do you always make such big fires mon ami" asked Aramis looking across at the streetfighter. " Its supposed to resemble a camp fire not an inferno" Porthos laughed aloud making the others smile.

" Just because yours goes out after ten minutes" he chuckled, " At least mine stays lit".

" Get some rest men" said Treville passing round the wine bottle. " We will leave at dawn."

" I will take first watch Captain" said Aramis as he took the wine from d'Artagnan.

Aramis moved closer to Treville and crouched down in front of him, making the older man glance up.

" Captain I apologise for my conduct back at the site, I had no right to speak to you like that."

Treville had a slight smile on his lips, " You are worried for Athos, we all are Aramis", he answered, " Its forgotten," he patted the marksman on the shoulder. Aramis smiled and stood to his feet, he turned catching Porthos

looking at him from where he lay on his side, the glow from the fire lighting up his face as he gave the markman a slight smile. Aramis nodded and smiled back, both men thinking and hoping the same thing. They would find their brother and bring him back.

Chapter 6 _

It was raining hard as they trudged through the mud in the forrest. Athos was now tethered to one of the horses, he had lost his footing a few times as the animal began to canter making the men laugh aloud. They all handed around a bottle of brandy from one rider to the other each taking a swig. Lightning split across the afternoon sky followed with a loud thunderclap. One of the horses reared up throwing its rider to the soggy ground. The man was soon on his feet and cursing the beast for dismounting him. Some of the men found it funny and roared out aloud, making the rider grimmace at them.

Athos could feel himself tiring, he felt thirsty more than hungry. He tilted his head upwards to catch some rain water, at least it was better than nothing, he thought as he with much difficultly removed yet another button from his doublet and dropped it to the ground.

" We are nearly there men" yelled the leader through the noise of the thunder and rain. He pointed north as they approached a clearing," I can see the Chateau in the distance".

Chateau! Thought Athos, we must be in LaHarve, it has to be. He knew they had been walking since yesterday, and LaHarve Chateau was the nearest to Paris. Of course! Its near the port and these where Pirates. Athos suddenly felt sick at the thought that they would be boarding some sort of Gallion.

Chapter7

d'Artagnan pulled his cloak tightly around his neck trying to keep out the rain, his hair was practically stuck to his face, at least it was not cold. That was something. His thoughts went to his mentor and brother, hoping he was well and not hurt.

Water dripped from Aramis' hat as he rode, he looked up towards the sky noticing the rain starting to wane, they had lost the tracks from the cart miles back. But they still could just make out hoof trails from the horses. Aramis prayed the sun would shine so the ground would dry out making the trial easy to see. His thought also went to his brother, also praying he was unhurt.

Porthos hated rain, his face had set into a scowl making him look as though he could kill if someone was to upset him. He suddenly followed his own gaze as he noticed the shiny button on the ground.

" THERE LOOK"! He yelled, " Theres another one" Porhtos dismounted and crouched down to pick up the fourth button they had come across. He held it up to Treville, the older man took it from him. Aramis joined his friend and grinned, He reached into his pocket and took out the other three they had found, " Yes these are from Athos doublet, we are on the right track Captain".

Treville nodded at his men a slight smile on his lips, " This is typical of Athos" he said.

Aramis and Porthos mounted their horses again, " At least we know he is conscious, and aware". said Aramis, " Thats something".

d'Artagnan smiled at his brothers, " Thats our Athos my friends".

Treville turned his horse around, " Lets go men.

Aramis shook the water from his hat and replaced it on his head, "Am I right in saying Captain that this is the way to LaHarve?"

Treviile nodded as he rode, " Yes, my thoughts exactly Aramis". he replied.

" Whats in LaHarve" asked d'Artagnan flanking Porthos and Aramis.

" A bloody great Chataeu" growled Porthos, " The port is full of ..." his voice trailed off as Aramis said the word " PIRATES"! Both men looked at each other. " You thinking the same as me mon ami" asked Aramis deep in thought.

Pothos face looked grim, " It better not be those bastards, who kidnapped me and Thos, four years ago, or I will be doing some killin".

"Calm down Porthos, we dont know anything yet" said Treville who had been listening to the conversation. " Anyway you brought them back to Paris and they where hanged".

" Yes I know Captain, but there where more in the gang, and they got away" replied the streetfighter.

" I dont like the sound of this" said d'Artagnan looking at his two friends. "Pirates, why would they come all the way to Paris just to capture Athos".

Pothos glanced at the Gascon, " Because they are evil scum, who dont forget". he seethed.

d'Artagnan looked at him puzzled " Forget what". he queried.

" Put it this way," growled Porhtos," me and Thos got the better of them, and they didn't like that, and with their so called shipmates gettin hanged, they might want revenge".

Aramis turned to look at the big man, " Thinking about it, you could be right, but like d'Artagnan has said, why come all the way to Paris just to prove a point".

That moment Treville joined the conversation, " Tell me Aramis", he began

" What was it Athos said to you before he left for the Palace, I recall you said something about him telling you all to be careful".

Aramis nodded to the back of Trevilles head as they rode, " Yes, he asked if we had passed anyone on the road, and that he had a strange feeling, telling us to be extra careful".

" Yeah, he seems to have a way of knowing someting is wrong our Thos" added porthos glancing at Aramis.

" Well lets hope he is very wrong this time my friends" said d'Artagnan raising his eyebrows.

Trevilles mind wandered as he thought about his lieutenant, why had he warned the others to be careful, what was it that had him wary?. He knew Athos was a very fine soilder, and he also knew like Pothos had said, he had a knack of knowing when to expect trouble. Treville didn't like the sound of any of this, he just prayed that they would get him back in one piece. But what he did not comprehend was, why now? and why Athos?.

Chapter 8

The rain had abated as they rode towards the Chateau, the towers and battlements now in full view. Athos couldn't help but wonder what fate was waiting for him on their arrival. The road towards the Chateau was fairly dry, now that the sun had decided to make an appearance. Athos could just make out the sea to the right and the tall masts stretching up into the sky. The salt water smell wafted through the air as they approached. He looked down at his wrists, the hemp had rubbed off the skin making them bleed. He thought about his brothers, he knew they would be following what trails they could find.

Suddenly he was pushed forward from behind by one of the men, " Make haste musketeer, we avn't got all bloody day". he growled. One of the men took a swig from the brandy bottle and spat it out at Athos, " Thought you might want to quench your thirst musketeer" he growled with a snigger. The others joined in laughing aloud".

The courtyard to the Chateau was bustling with small stalls selling bread, cheese, and meats. Pirates sat around in groups drinking brandy, playing cards. Some of the local half dressed whore's had draped themselves over the men as they drank. Laughter echoed around the Chateau walls, children ran around as they played their games with each other.

Athos almost collided with some goats that where tethered to a cart, they bleated as they scattered out of his way. His legs almost giving way beneath him. The horses suddenly came to a stop, the men dismounted.

The one Athos had called leader cut the rope around his wrists and replaced them with iron shackles. Athos felt thirsty, " May I have a drink of water" he asked tossing his hair from his face.

The leader grinned, " What do you say men, the musketeer wants a drink."

One of the pirates placed his arm on the leaders shoulder and smiled, " I gave him a drink of my brandy back there", he growled " Didn't I men" They all cheered, " Aye, hes just ungrateful, good brandy and all". Someone shouted from the gang," Hey maybe he would like to drink from the 'orse trough". Everyone laughed as Athos was pulled by the hair towards the trough and dunked under the water. He was pulled up and caught his breath, his hair almost sticking to his drenched face. The laughter carried on as he was dragged towards a door, " Bet your not thirsty now are you musketeer" came the voice behind him. Athos spat out the taste he had in his mouth, as he was pushed through the door.

One of the men took a lit torch from its sconce as they entered through to the

darkness.

" You still havn't informed me as to why I am here, surly you can give me the curisity of letting me know something". asked Athos as he was led down the stone steps by two of the men.

" We have been told to bring you here musketeer, thats all we know". replied the man carrying the torch. " Now shut up".

Athos could smell the damp stench as he was dragged down deep into the bowels of the chateau.

They reached what looked like dungeons and small cells, the passage was lit by torches. He noticed some of the cells where occupied, one man was curled up in a ball as he lay on the stone ground. Another held his hand out begging for food, only to be kicked away by one of the guards who appeared around a corner. A couple of rats scurried along the ground as they walked. The guard looked at them, " So this is the newest piece of scum" he said eyeing Athos up and down. " Put him in that one and make sure he is secured well".The guard pointed to one of the cells.

One of the piartes turned on the guard, " Dont forget we want what we were promised".

The guard watched them, " You will get your reward gentlemen". he answered as he was joined by three more guards, the guards could be heard exchanging words as one of them handed a purse to the first guard.

Athos winced in pain as his arms where shackled above his head, his ankles also shackled.

He watched as the guard gave the purse to the pirates, one of them checked the contents and grinned to his fellow pirate.

" Why you are most kind my friend" he said with a smirk. The guard glared at them, " You've got what you wanted now go" he seethed.

Athos could feel the anger in him about to explode as he tried helplessly to move.

" WHAT! do you men want with me Goddamn it" he yelled. The guard entered with a smile on his face. " You my dear Athos are goin to give us what we want, or you simply die". he sniggered.

Athos stared at him, how did this man know his name, who where they he thought.

That moment footsteps could be heard, they got nearer to the cell and stopped. Athos looked up to see a man dressed in fine clothes, he walked into the cell and smiled at him.

" Welcome to LaHarve Athos, good to see you again" he sniggered.

Athos glared at him, he knew his face, he knew the accent, he knew the attire, those weapons he had seen before. He was English, it was The Duke of Buckingham. Athos suddenly felt sick to the stomach, he remembered the time in La Rochelle.

He had been spared his life for saving his from one of their own. He remembered Treville asking him strange questions, until he told him of this man, the awkward silence in the office until he began to realise what it was the older man meant. This was the man who had watched him as he slept, had let him eat as much as he wanted from his table, had touched his leg as he placed a napkin on his lap. At the time Athos hadn't suspected a thing. Until everything was explained to him by his captain. Athos froze as he glared at the Duke.

Chapter 9

The sun was starting to get hotter as they rode along the road, the rain had stopped leaving another scorching day.

Treville noticed a small stream to his left and gestered to his man to take some water.

The four men dismounted and walked towards the sound of the water as it trickled along its path, the horses helped themselves to the stream.

d'Artagnan crouched down to the stream and cupped water up into his hands, he splashed it onto his face and was wiping a damp cloth over his neck as Aramis joined him and did the same. Aramis noticed how worried the Gascon looked, he knew he was thinking about Athos. Aramis splashed more water up into his face and patted a hand on the young mans shoulder, d'Artagnan glanced at him, a slight smile on his face. " We will find him my friend" he said. d'Artagnan nodded and wiped his face.

Porthos had filled the waterskins and poured one over his head. "That feels good " he chuckled. Aramis smiled and patted his back as he walked back to his horse.

Treville drank from one of the skins and refilled it, he squinted against the sun as he noticed it must be afternoon. " Right men lets carry on" he said mounting his own horse.

Chapter 10

The Duke slowly walked up to Athos as he studied him from head to foot. A smirk on his lips as he came face to face. He turned to make sure the guards where out of ear shot as he looked Athos in the face.

" You really are a very handsome my boy" he whispered into Athos ear.

Athos could feel his insides churning, he felt like he would vomit any time.

"Such beautiful green eyes" and strong arms. Athos was trembling.

"WHAT IS IT YOU WANT FROM ME!" he yelled out making the guards turn their heads and enter the cell.

The Duke's demeanor changed suddenly as he realised the guards had appeared behind him.

" You my friend are going to give us the plans of the Royal Palace, right down to every dungeon and every chamber within its walls." he roared in Athos' face.

Athos glared at him, "Go to HELL! I will die before I do that" he growled out into the Dukes face, " So you are wasting your time asking such a thing".

The Duke glanced at his guards and nodded, the biggest man came towards Athos and punched him in the stomach, making him yell with pain, he gasped for breath as another punch came towards his face catching his right eye. The shackles and chains rattled as Athos body moved.

Blood trickled down his face, another guard grabbed him by the hair and pulled back his head making him wince, " Not so clever now are we musketeer" he seethed through clenched teeth. Another guard stroked a knife blade down Athos' cheek towards his throat drawing superficial blood from his skin. Athos brought up his head under the mans chin making him bite his own tongue. " You BASTARD"! he roared.

The Duke watched with a smile on his face, " I told you he was good gentlemen, you have to be on your guard with the elite guard".

" Maybe we need the beast to give him a visit Sir", said one of the guards with a smirk on his face. The others laughed in unison. " Yeah, that should make him talk".

" You will never get me to divulge anything, you are wasting your time". seethed Athos. Another punch came from one of the men, to the other eye and another to his stomach. Athos felt his body weaken as he hung from the chains his head lowered to his chest, his hair covering his face.

" Now my friend, the plans to the palace if you want to live". asked the Duke.

Athos slowly lifted his face and glared at him, " I said..go to hell, and I am NOT! your friend". That moment one of the guards picked up a large piece of stone and knocked him on the back of the head with anger. Everything went black.

Chapter 11

The Duke poured wine into a goblet, picked it up and took a swig back. He turned his head and looked across at the unconsious figure in the cot. He slowly walked over and stared down at Athos. Even with the bloodied face he still looked handsome. The Duke smiled to himself as he stroked his hand down the mans arm, he moved his hair away from his face, bent forward and kissed him on the lips. " I want you so much beautiful" he whispered into Athos' ear.

Pain surrounded his whole head, he could hear the Dukes voice, why was he whispering. why couldn't he move, his body ached. Where are my brothers, I need them, I need my brothers here. Someone was touching him, maybe I'm home in the Garrison.

His eyes flickered open slowly, everything felt blurry. Athos closed his eyes again and opened them. The Duke was smiling down into his face. Athos tried to sit up but found he was tied to the cot. He glared at the Duke. " Where am I, and why am I tied down". he gasped, eyeing the leather bands that held fast across his body.

"Relax my dear Athos, relax" said the Duke stroking the back of his hand, as he spoke.

Athos felt nausea in his stomach building up, "Take your hands OFF" me" he seethed through clenched teeth. " You make me want to vomit".

The Duke smirked at him," I remember when you came aboard my ship in LaRochelle, you saved my life from that traitor in your regiment. Iv'e wanted you since that day my boy".

The Duke lowered his head to his lips once more and kissed him, Athos turned his head from side to side trying to hold him off. Athos gasped unable to move anything but his head and feet. He spat into the Dukes face making him reel back as though he had been shot.

Athos could feel the tears welling in his eye's, of all the wounds he had suffered over time, this was hell compared.

"You DISGUST me you evil piece of scum, you are a coward, I feel like I want to vomit". he gasped.

The Duke wiped the siliva from his face and smiled." Now come my boy, that is no way to treat your lover".

"GET AWAY FROM ME"! Yelled Athos amost screaming as though in pain.

" You Sick BASTARD!" he gasped.

" Now my boy, tell me the plans to the palace and you will be set free".We

already have the gunpowder ready to blow the place up".

"NEVER! seethed Athos, NEVER!"

The Duke laughed aloud, "Oh well, you know what that means, my boy. You are all mine, to do what ever I want". The laughter got louder.

Athos swallowed hard, his head pounded in pain. This so called Duke lived up to his name, and there was nothing he could do.

The Duke had poured more wine into a goblet and drank from it.

Athos had turned his head towards him as he watched him drink the full goblet back in one go. He then stood and walked over to the cot and looked down into his face.

" Now my young man , you are about to be mine" he whispered into his ear.

Athos could feel his body begin to tremble all over uncontrolably, tears stung his eyes, he felt faint and nauseous. The man was actually removing his own clothes and climbing on top of his tethered body. He was leering into Athos face, as he bent forward and kissed him full on the lips, he was feeling all over Athos' body and caressing him all over. Athos shrieked and gasped as he tried to free himself to no avail. From behind the closed doors the guards exchanged looks with each other knowing what was happening to the musketeer. They winced at the sound that came from the room.

" NNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Echoed around the walls.

Chapter 12

Athos was back chained in the cell, this time his ankles where not shackled just his wrists.

The guards entered again, " We have been informed by the Duke that you still refuse to give us what we want musketeer". said one of the men. " So we thought you may want to meet our good friend Beast"

Athos leaned against the cold wall as though in a trance, he couldn't get what had happened in that room out of his head. He didn't even look up as the guards entered. One of them grabbed him by the hair and dragged him across the stone ground. Athos winced in pain, he suddenly glanced up as what he could make out to be a man, he was bare chested and made Porthos look like a miget. Both in height and breadth, the guards started to laugh as the giant of a man lifted Athos from the floor with one hand.

One guard walked forward to Athos, " Are you going to give us what we want musketeer"he asked once more." This is your last chance to save yourself".

Athos glared into his face, NO I AM NOT!" he seethed back.

The guard looked up into the giants ugly features and nodded. "He's yours my friend".

The giant held Athos above his head and through him to the floor winding him, he tried to catch his breath but was punched in the face as he tried to sit up.

Athos kicked up his legs towards the man, but it was useless as he swung him round by the ankles making the guards laugh aloud. The giant let him go and he colided with the cell bars. The man came at him again, this time Athos kicked out at him between the legs making the giant yell out in pain. A trick Porthos had showed him years back.

" You little bastard" growled the giant grabbing him by the hair and squeezing his throat, Athos gasped for breath as he held him tight, bringing up his feet and kicking the giant in the stomach. The man didn't seem to feel anything as he was kicked again and again. He smashed Athos agianst the cell bars again, this time Athos felt the crack to his ribs and cried out in pain. It hurt to breath, he knew he had broken a rib.

Athos was aware of the guard next to him and noticed his main gouche, he suddenly grabbed it and aimed for the giants back. The guard shouted out at the sudden shock at losing one of his weapons. " Hey !"

He stabbed the giant making him growl in pain, he turned towards Athos and was about to swing a punch before falling to the ground dead.

The guards glanced at each other in awe at what had just occured, this musketeer had killed the beast. Athos held his ribs tightly as he leaned against the wall of the cell.

One of the guards pulled out the dagger from the giants back, and lurched towards Athos, he was stopped by one of the others. " No we need him alive or we will never find the plans."

The guard glared at him, " You will hang for this musketeer" he yelled.

" I fail to see what you mean by that" said Athos, " If I remember rightly, It was you who set him on me".

The guard walked towards him, " You musketeers think your better than everyone else dont you". he said through clenched teeth.

" WE HANG HIM TODAY"! The voice echoed from the footsteps that approached the cell.

Everyone turned to see the Duke come to a standstill outside the cell.

" But Sir, we need the plans". said one of the Duke walked into the cell. " Not anymore my friend, I have another idea, we dont need the plans, we just blow the palace to kingdom come and everyone in it.".

Athos couldn't look in the Dukes direction, he felt physically sick to the stomach.

" Prepare for the hanging men, and make haste". The guards hurried from the cell leaving the Duke and Athos alone.

Athos cowered on the floor of the cell, he wouldn't look at him, the Duke laughed aloud. As he brought up his sword towards Athos.

" You have served your purpose young man, and as beautiful as it was, alas it has come to an end. But I will find another boy, maybe not as fine as you, but I will find him.

Athos still cowered away as he spoke, he felt like he was going to pass out. He felt dirty and used, he wanted to scream out, he hated himself right now.

The cell doors where closed with a slam, as the Duke left him alone on the floor. Athos was trembling, tears running down his face. His ribs where agony.

Chapter 13

Treville was watching the Chataeu through his lens, " The courtyard looks busy, with stall holders". he remarked passing the lens to Aramis. The four men lay on their stomachs in the long grass observing the took the lens and shut one eye to take a look.

" I dont see anyone else in the vicinity of the Chateau, as you say Captain, just the stall holders at present". Porthos took the lens from Aramis and continued looking. " I see a gang of bloody pirates in there, I bet they've got him in there somewhere, funny how the trail has suddenly stopped."

d'Artagnan glanced at his captain, " Why dont I go in there, and mingle with the locals, if I remove my pouldron they won't suspect a thing".

" You ain't mingling any where my friend" growled Porthos, " Its too bloody dangerous, " Besides you look nothing like a pirate, they will eat you for dinner". d'Artagnan made a face as he glanced at Porthos.

" Porthos is right d'Aratgnan, its too risky, as much as I hate to say it, these men are not stupid".

Aramis looked at the big man, " If anyone looks more like a pirate, I would say you do my friend". he winked as Porthos scowled at him.

The others all looked at Porthos, a slight grin on their faces.

Porthos exchanged glances with each man and nodded his head." Anything to get our brother back" he growled. Aramis patted him on the back, " Be careful my friend".

They all stood to their feet, Porthos removed his pouldron and handed it to Treville. The older man looked at him, " Get a feel for the place Porthos, and we will be ready when you are". d'Artagnan slapped him on the shoulder, " Go get em".

The other three men watched as Porthos made his way towards the Chateau, across the grass.

" Come, lets take up our positions" said Treville." We should get as close as we can, leave the horses here in the trees." Aramis and d'Artagnan spread out into the long grass.

Chapter 14

Porthos ran forward towards the west wall throwing himself to the ground, he lay still for a few seconds before making sure he hadn't been seen. Noone was around, Porthos craned his neck as he looked up at the battlements. He could make out a couple of guards chatting and laughing. Porthos kept in close to the wall as he walked sideways to a door, he tried the knob but it was held fast. He thought back to his street days when he could pick any lock. He felt in his doublet pocket and found what he was looking for, the long pin he had found outside the Garrison last week.

Athos had asked why he was keeping it, he had simply said, you never know, it may come in handy for something. Now he was about to find out.

Porthos poked it through the lock and listened for the click, he pulled a grimace and whispered to himself, " Come on, come one"CLICK! the door was open. Porhtos smiled and kissed the pin, " You little beauty" he said.

Aramis was watching his friend from afar through the telescopic lens, he smiled as he watched as Porthos had gotten through the door, he tilted the scope upward to the battlements, four more guards had appeared, two of which wallked round to the east wall. " He's in" said Aramis to d'Artagnan without taking his eyes off the battlements.

Treville had positioned himself on the far right, he caught the watchful eyes of his two men and signalled that he was moving forward slowly through the grass. Aramis nodded in his direction that everything was clear to continued to watch through the scope.

Porthos found himself inside a cold dark chamber, it was pitch black. He couldn't see anything, he slowly felt his way around the walls, they felt cold to the touch. Suddenly he felt something under foot followed by a squeal, he cursed under his breath realising he had just trodden on a rat. Porthos mind ticked over, do I go back or carry on through this dark place. He blinked twice as he noticed light coming through what looked like the bottom of another door on the other side of the chamber.

Porthos followed the light, he could hear very faint voices echoing through the walls. He very slowly turned the knob and to his suprise it opened, he pushed it just to a slit so he could see what was on the other side, it was the courtyard. He could just make out stalls, men sat around in groups talking and playing cards as they drank ale, he could some of the women sitting on the laps of the men, laughter filled the air.

Porthos could see one of the stalls was placed close to the door where he watched. Bread and cheese lay across the table, a young boy about twelve or thirteen was serving a woman with some bread, she placed it in her basket and walked away thanking the boy. The boy was now on his own on the stall, he reached for a waterskin and took a swig back. Porthos took his chance and entered the courtyard from behind the stall.

The boy turned as Porthos began looking at the cheese, he smiled down at the boy. " Looks very good cheese, do you sell much". The boy eyed him from his sitting position, " Its the best Monsieur, my mother makes it and the bread". Porthos grinned as he kept an eye on the group of men to his left, most of whom where now drunk and fooling around with the women. He noticed some men on the far side of the courtyard errecting a scaffold.

"Your mother is a clever woman boy, he replied, " Tell me, whats goin on over there"? he asked nodding his head towards the scaffold. The boy followed his gaze and shrugged his shoulders," Not really sure monsieur, some where saying there will be a hanging". Porthos felt slightly uneasy, as he glanced back at the boy. " Are there many hangings, here". he asked. The boy stood as a customer picked up some bread and paid him, the boy nodded, "merci monsieur". he said to the man. He turned back to Porthos, " There was two three days ago, I think they where thieves or something, not really sure".

" You must see alot going on from this angle boy" said Porthos sitting on the chair that the boy had vacated. " Sometimes you do, the pirates are always brawling with one another, they fight over the whores"

Porthos raised his eyebrows as the boy used the word whore, he wanted to laugh but thought better of it. " I see," he said glancing at some of the women.

Porthos noticed some guards chatting on the far side, " Who are they" he asked not taking his eyes off the men. The boy looked over, " They are evil," he replied making Porthos turn to listen. " Why do you say that" .

The boy took another swig from his waterskin and began tidying up the loaves into rows. " This morning they came through the gate with a shackled man who couldn't fight back himself, they kept hitting him and laughing, they tripped him up on purpose and dunked his head in the horse trough, until he couldn't breath, mother said not to get involved". Porthos felt his inside churn over, could this have been their dear brother. " What did this man look like boy". he asked him. " Couldn't really tell, his face was covered in blood, I did notice something though monsieur". Porthos froze as he listened," Oh what was that". The boy eyed him, " He was a musketeer, he wore the Fluer De Lis". Porthos felt sick, " I wonder what they wanted with a Kings Musketeer" he asked as his eyes scanned the walls and windows.

The boy served another customer , this time a young girl about sixteen.

She picked up cheese and bread and put them into her basket, " Merci Sacha" she said paying the boy, " Merci Rishell" he replied the girl walked away.

The boy shrugged once again, " Don't know, Im betting that Englishman, who dresses all well to do, wanted to see him". he answered, " He gives people the creeps he do".

Porthos couldn't believe what he was hearing as he looked at the boy, " What Englishman would that be then". The boy eyed him, " You ask alot of questions monsieur".

Porthos grinned, "Call me nosy if you want, just curious, I'm new to these parts you see". The boy nodded. " Think mamma said he was a Duke or something noble". The boy was pulling a face as he tried to remember the name, " Oh er somethin, like Bookam, Or Buckernan," he said. Porthos suddenly froze, he slowly turned his face towards the boy and nearly spluttered out the name" BUCKINGHAM! " The Duke Of Buckingham".

" Thats it Buckingham, Monsieur, do you know him?" asked the boy.

" Oh I know him alright," seethed Porthos. " Bloody great coward he is".

"He stays in the Chateau when he come over the sea, mamma said not to go near him, she said he is evil". said the boy with a sniff.

"Yeah, you should heed your mothers warning, shes right". added Porthos.

He looked at the boy with a serious face and beckoned him closer with a finger. The boy obeyed and looked at the big man. " I heard before your name is Sasha" the boy nodded, " My name is Porthos, I also am a musketeer, the man they are holding inside this Chateau is my friend". The boys eyes nearly popped out in supprise as Porthos spoke in a low murmer. " I need to get him out of here, do you want to help me in doing that."

. Pothos scanned around watching the passers by as he spoke. " I will, if I can but how, what do you want me to do Monsieur?" The boy asked. Excitment in his young voice.

Chapter 15 _

Treville, Aramis and d'Artagnan still waited in the long grass. Aramis had the scope on the battlements, " There is only two guards up there now Captain," he said. Treville nodded, " Come on Porthos whats keeping you" he murmered. Aramis suddenly caught Trevilles arm as he watched through the scope. "Wait , I see something, that door that Porthos disappeared through has just opened again, Its Porthos,". Aramis watched as Porthos made the signs with his hands and fingers. Aramis spoke as he watched his friend make signs, " One...at..a time..through..the door". He's getting us in my friends hes getting us in". d'Artagnan patted Aramis on the shoulder as Treville spoke.

" Aramis, you go first, then you d'Artagnan, as soon as that idiot on the battlements turns towards the east wall run for it". Treville took the scope from Aramis and watched, " Go now Aramis", he ordered. Aramis picked himself up and sprinted towards the door, he came to a stop as he hit himself against the wall and neared the door. Porthos was there as his friend entered. " What kept you my friend". asked Aramis patting him on the shoulder." Just stay in there until the others get here" he said. That moment d'Artagnan appeared at the door, " Have you seen Athos" he asked glancing towards the big man. " Not yet, but I av, heard he is in hear".

Treville watched as the guard turned, Treville took his chance and ran across the grass towards the door.

The men where now inside the dark chamber, they couldn't see each other as they spoke.

" The other side of this wall is the courtyard" began Porthos, " There is a boy selling bread and cheese, the stall is very close to the other doorway, he has moved it slightly near the doorway so when I give the wink you will, one at a time move behind it, everyone is too busy getting drunk so hopefully they wont notice." " Do you know where Athos is" asked Aramis. " The boy showed me the entrance they took him through. " answered Porthos.

" Its bloody dark, can't see a damn thing" said d'artagnan feeling his way around. " That was my chest you grabbed my friend" said Treville. " Sorry Captain" replied d'Artagnan with a grin knowing the others couldn't see him.

As Aramis and d'Artagnan went ahead towards the slit of light Porthos grasped Trevilles arm. The older man turned as the big man murmered low, "According to the boy, the Duke of Buckingham is here and has Athos". Treville felt his stomach churn as he looked at the big man. "WHAT! are you certain he said Buckingham"? Porthos nodded, " Yeah he was sure alright".

The boy was sat at his stall, his eyes wandered to the door he had been observing. He noticed as Porthos slowly came into view, the boy looked back at the group of men who where still playing cards, he nodded as the big man slid behind the stall, followed by Aramis.

Chapter 16

Athos sat with his shackled hands around his knees, he stared across the cell as he watched two rats scurry through the bars, helping themselves to scraps of what looked like a half eaten apple. The torch on the wall was still lit in its sconce making flickering images of the flame on the stone walls. Athos still trembled, he had vomited twice, the thoughts and images of what had happened going through his head. He wanted to kill the man who had done this to him, man he thought, he wasn't a man he was evil. Tears streamed down his face once again. He wanted his brothers so much, his brothers, My God, what would they think of him, they might not even want to know him anymore. He couldn't tell them this, how could he, how would he, Treville might take away his commission. Athos vomited once again.

Athos slowly glanced up as he heard footsteps coming along the passageway.

Four guards came to a stop outside the cell, one of them unlocked the bared gate and entered followed by the others.

" Not so elite and brave looking now our we musketeer", he seethed glancing at the others who started to laugh.

Athos felt the anger rising inside as he glared at them, he didin't know who was worst, these lot or the red guard.

" You are going to be part of the entertainment in one hour musketeer when you hang" laughed the guard.

Athos was resting his head on his hands as he spoke, " Why wait an hour, just get on with it" he seethed.

One of the guards crouched down in front of him, " Aww, a hero to the end hey" he taunted. " Maybe we should give our musketeer a souvenir before he dies".

Athos lifted his face up and glared at the guard in the face, " GO TO HELL!

That second the guard pulled him to his feet and punched him in the stomach, making him gasp in pain, his ribs already agony.

Another grabbed him by the hair and knocked him against the stone wall, Athos turned and caught him in the face knocking him to the stone floor.

" You wont get away with that musketeer" seethed another guard as he swung at him with the butt of his pistol and cracked it over his head. Athos fell to the floor motionless. The blood oozing from the gash above his left eye.

Chapter 17

Sasha watched in awe as the other three men had emerged from the doorway and sat agaist the wall behind his stall.

The group of pirates that had been playing cards had left to board their gallion. The women following them and laughing as they walked towards the harbour.

Porthos had watched them go, " That was good timing, getting rid of that load of scum" he growled glancing at the others.

Aramis stood and scanned the courtyard, " Alas my friend we still have to get past that lot" he said looking towards a group of guards. He ruffled the boys hair and smiled. " You must be Sasha". The boy nodded, " Yes monsieur, I seen them take your friend inside, he was shackled in chains".

Aramis face looked concerned for his brother, he felt anger as he looked over at the guards. He felt a hand on his shoulder and the voice of d'Artagnan, " We will get him out of here". Aramis gave him a wry smile and nodded.

Treville and Porthos were watching the doorway as two guards emerged from it. " We need a diversion" muttered Treville as he watched the guards.

Porthos slowly turned his head towards the pen holding a small flock of sheep, he glanced back at the others, " Ive got an idea gentlemen". he said. looking back at the sheep as they bleated. They all followed his gaze and understood immediatly what he intended to do. Treville nodded at the big man, " I like it Porthos, lets do it".

The boy was smiling as he realised what his new friends were planning, "Maybe I should let them out" he said with excitment in his young voice".They won't notice me like they will with all of you".

The four men exchanged glances with one another.

" You have done more than enough young man" remarked Treville, " This is our job now" The boy looked up at Porthos, " I can do this honest, please let me help" he asked. Porthos met Trevilles eyes, the older man knew what he was thinking. Treville nodded as he squeezed the boys shoulder, " Very well son, but as soon as they are free, you come back to your stall and stay here do you hear me?". The boy smiled, " Yes monsieur of course.

The men watched as the boy moved away towards the sheep penn.

Chapter 18

Within seconds the of opening the penn very slowly and staying out of veiw Sacha was back at his stall having created mayhem. The sheep darted left right and centre sending stall holders on the chase, people ran in differnent directions trying to catch the bleating animals. The noise of screams and shouts as grown men ran around like children. The group of guards soon joined in, one of them was stood on the scaffold and yelled at the top of his voice,his face like thunder." GET THESE BLOODY THINGS CAUGHT NOW!WE HAVE A HANGIN TO DO!".

Sacha diverted his eyes to his new friends who had disappeared through the doorway. He smiled. The diversion had worked.

The mayhem carried on, Sacha sat at his stall in giggles of laughter, as he watched the show. He had never seen anything quite like it before.

The sheep leaped over stalls, knocking one of the guards of his feet, he cursed at the animal as it jumped over his head. Chickens and geece had also joined in making the courtyard look farsical. Some of the Tavern owners had come out to have a look what was going on, followed by a group of wenches who thought the whole thing hysterical. Giggles filled the air as children treated the whole thing like a game.

Chapter 19

Athos still lay unconsious on the floor, blood had dried to his face. Rats scurried around the cell. The torch was almost down to the wick, making the passagway glow slightly orange. Two of the guards entered the cell and stood looking down at the injured man.

" We need to wake him, and get him ready for hanging" said the guard in charge. The other guard crouched down and shook Athos by the shoulder, he didn't get any response. " I'll get some water, that will rouse him".he remarked glancing at his leader.

The guard had retuned with a pail of water and threw it over Athos' head.

Athos gasped, his eyes flickered open. He cowered away from the guards across the cell floor. " Leave me alone...go away" he gasped. The two guards hooked his wrist shackles to the chains that hung from the arched ceiling, and pulled them up until his arms where above his head, Athos head hung towards his chest, the pain in his head was unbearable. He tried to kick out at the men but found his strength had waned. The guards grinned, " Not such a fighter now are you musketeer". seethed the man in charge. Athos kicked again, this time catching the other man in the stomach.

" You really are a BASTARD!" he yelled out. He brought up his sword and stabbed at Athos slicing through his upper left arm. The guards laughed aloud as they watched him bleed." He's gonna be dead before we hang him".

Athos yelled out in pain as blood poured down his arm and dripped onto the floor, his shirt sleeve was now crimson. Then it went black.

Chapter 20

Treville, Porthos, Aramis and d'Artagnan had their hands on their swords as they meandered down the winding passage.

There where four tunnels each one pitch black exept for one. " It has to be this one surley, murmered Porthos. "Its the only one lit".

Treville nodded in agreement with the big man, " Come on men, we take it slow" he said as he led the way. Treville held up his hand as they approached a turn off. He slowly leaned against the wall and peered around the corner, the passage was empty but still lit by the torches. He beckoned his men forward. The four men carried on down the passage as rats scurried across their path now and then. It reeked of damp and decay.

d'Artagnan put his hand across his nose, " My God, it stinks down here" he gasped.

" Smells like something died", murmered Porthos glancing at the Gascon.

The men suddenly came to three cells, Aramis was the first to investigate joined by the others. " Well he isn't in any of these". he siged.

" He has to be bloody somewhere, if these bastards have hurt him, I'll bloody kill 'em" growled Porthos.

"Shushh" d'Artagnan held his hand up to quieten the others, they all went quiet and listened. " I dont hear anything" Whispered Aramis. d'Artagnan dropped his hand, " Sorry I thought I heard something". he replied. Porthos smacked d'artagnan on the back and carried on walking.

That moment they all stopped in their tracks as they heard the sound of voices getting nearer to them. Treville gestured to the others to a large nook in the opposite wall. The men leaned against the wall in the darkened crevice as the voices approached.

The two guards walked down the passage laughing and joking, they where gone in an instant.

" They came from that direction" Whispered Aramis, " Lets pray Athos is down here somewhere". The four musketeers follwed. The men came to another unoccupied cell, chains and shackles hung from the ceiling. " The only bloody things in 'ere are the rats". growled Porthos. As four scurried around the cell floor.

Aramis stood for a moment, he reached inside his shirt for his crucifix and silently said a prayer under his breath, kissed it and put it back. He felt a hand on his shoulder and glanced around at Porthos smiling at him, " Come on Mis, lets go find him".

The passageway seemed darker now as the torches burned down to the wicks.

" I hope we have taken the right tunnel boys" said Treville as they turned a corner into another passage.

" Maybe we should have split up Captain" added d'Artagnan eyeing more rats as they fought over a dead mouse.

" Yeah but this was the only tunnel lit, he has to be down 'ere somewhere". growled Porthos.

The men came to another empty cell, d'Artagnan kicked the stone wall in frustration. " Damn it," he seethed. " Where is he!".

Chapter 21

The Duke of Buckingham sat back in his chair drinking brandy.

A knock came to the large wooden door. " Enter" yelled the Duke as he refilled his glass.

Two guards walked into his chamber, " When do you want us to start the hanging Sir?" The Captain of the guards asked.

The Duke stood and wandered over to his small window that overlooked the courtyard. " I take it you have cleared the mayhem" he asked.

" Yes Sir, the stupid animals are back in their penn". The Duke took a swig from his goblet, " Has the musketeer spoken yet" he asked.

" Nothing Sir, I don't think we will get anything from him, he's a stubourn one".

The Duke smirked to himself, as he thought about how handsome this musketeer really was. He wanted more of him before they hanged him. He took another swig of brandy. "I want him brought to my chambers again, I might be able to change his mind". he ordered.

The two guards exchanged glances, " Yes Sir" the captain replied as they left.

The younger guard glanced at his Captain, " He gives me the creeps" he mumbled. The guard captain glared at the young man, " Have you no respect man, he is a Duke" he replied walking on ahead.

Chapter 22

Treville lead the way as they carried on walking, This time Porthos took one of the torches from the sconce, " Its gettin' bloody darker along 'ere" he remarked lighting the way. " There's more cells up ahead by the looks of it" said Treville staring down the passage. This time Porthos walked ahead with the torch.

" If we dont find anything down here, maybe we should split into twos" murmered Treville as he walked. Aramis and d'Artagnan exchanged glances, each man knowing what the other was thinking, where was Athos?.

Suddenly Porthos came to a stop as he stared in horror into one of the cells, he could see the figure hanging by the wrists, he slowly walked into the cell holding the torch up, his stomach churned as he realised it was his brother. "ATHOS! he yelled. The others hurried into the cell when they heard Porthos gasp his name.

"My God! gasped Aramis rushing to his friend. Treville and d'Artagnan stared in shock at sight before them. Aramis felt for a pulse,his hand trembling." He is still with us thank the Lord".

" Athos! Athos! my friend can you hear me" gasped Aramis as he examined the wounds. "He's bleeding from his arm badly, we..we need to get these chains off him now". The tremble could be heard in the mans voice as he spoke.

Porthos had clenched his fists as he looked at his brother, " They have strung him up like a bloody animal," he growled, " I'll kill the BASTARDS!. " His face is black and blue."

d'Artagnan could feel tears welling in his eyes, he wiped them away as Treville glanced at him, and placed a hand on his shoulder.

Porthos had taken some handy tools from his purse belt and began to pick at the locks on the shackles around Athos' wrists.

Aramis' own eyes had glazed over as he tried getting water into his brothers mouth.

"GOT IT! growled Porthos as he unlocked the shackles, the four men slowly got Athos to the floor, " Slowly..slowly" murmerd Aramis not taking his eyes off his brother. Porthos caught Aramis' glance, " Is he gonna be alright", Aramis lifted up Athos' shirt to check him over without answering. They all let out a gasp when they seen his torso with sole marks and punches that where now black and blue. "My God, he's suffered badly" remarked Treville.

" He has a couple of broken ribs" said Aramis as he continued to examine his friend. "He has taken some bang to the head also, Mon Dieu fre're, what have they done to you". Aramis had taken rags from his belt as he wrapped Athos' arm to stop the bleeding. " He needs this arm stitching, we need to get him out of this evil place as soon as we can, I need to work on him."

Porthos face was set in a frenzied scowl as he watched Aramis attend Athos, d'Artagnan was in complete shock as he crouched down by his mentor and stroked his hair. " Why wont he wake Aramis?" he asked with a gasp.

Aramis didn't look up as he answered, " He has concussion mon ami, but I'm hoping he wakes soon, he seems very dehydrated".

That moment the men looked around as they heard voices getting closer.

Chapter 23

The two guards where laughing as they approached the cell.

"DROP YOUR WEAPONS NOW!" Came the demanding voice of Treville.

The two guards stopped in their tracks, " HE SAID NOW!" Porthos repeated.

The two guards uncliped their weapons belts and slowly turned around to face Treville , Porthos, and d'Artagnan aiming their muskets right at them.

Porthos kicked the weapons out of reach as he pushed one of the guards to the floor, followed by d'Artagnan who had thrown the other man against the wall.

" Not laughing now are we, you piece of scum" seethed Porthos, " You have left my friend hanging from chains bleeding out all over the floor,you strung 'im up like an animal boot marks all over his body" he growled as he pulled up the guard by the collar and punched him in the jaw. The guard was holding up his hands in defence.

The other guard tried to free himself from d'Artagnans grasp to no avial. " We where following orders", he seethed.

Treville grabbed the man and dragged him into the cell where Athos was and held his arms behind his back as he showed the guard what they had done.

" LOOK AT HIM" seethed Treville through clenched teeth as he held him over Athos broken body. The guard winced in pain as he glared down at the unconcious man. " This is what YOU and HIM have done to him, I will personally see to it that the pair of you suffer for this". The guard gasped as he spoke, " It wasn't ju..just us who di did this, others aswell, he would have hanged us if we had disobeyed him". Treville who still held the man by the collar, pushed him to the floor. " Who, who are you taking orders from" he demanded. The guard recoiled away from Treville as he tried to stand, Porthos grabbed him by his tunic, " My Captain asked you a question" he growled, " ANSWER NOW! or else you will be squealing like the rats in this damn hole". d'Artagnan still held on to the other guard, "Tell him for Gods sake". he seethed.

Porthos pulled one of his mad faces at the guard he held, " I'm waitin" he said wrestling the mans arm up his back, the guard winced and gasped in pain. " Ve- very well...its Buckingham, The Duke of Buckingham". he spat out.

Aramis was still doing his best to make Athos more comfortable, he looked up at the others as the guard spoke the name.

Treville and Porthos exchanged glances, each knowing what the Duke was capable of.

Treville turned to look at Athos as he lay there then back at the guard," I take it he is hear in the chateau" he asked.

The guard glared at him, " He has his own chamber here". he replied. "He had your friend tied up there for a while before he told us to bring him back here before hanging him".

The musketeers each exchanged glances, Porthos glanced at Athos as he lay wounded. "Tell me, what has he done to merit that?" growled Porthos.

"The Duke wanted information from him and he wouldn't give it, he tried everything but he wouldn't talk".

Treville grinned to himself, " He is a Kings Musketeer, my men will die before they give any information to anyone".

" What information did he want", asked d'Artagnan throwing the younger guard to the floor to join his superiour.

" He wanted to know the plans of the Palace," he answerd.

Porthos raised his eyebrows at his captain, "Did he now", he growled, " Now why would he want to know about the Palace".

Treville stepped towards the two guards, " You two are going to take me to his chambers NOW! he demanded.

" I will come with you captain" added Porthos. Treville nodded in agreement as he turned to Aramis who was still attending Athos. d'Artagnan stay here with Aramis and take care of Athos".

Aramis glanced at the older man, " Captain, we can't leave him here much longer, I really need to stitch his arm and wrap his ribs".

Treville nodded, " We will make haste Aramis, try and keep him comfortable for now". Aramis gave him a sad smile and nodded. Porthos patted Aramis on the shoulder as he turned to leave making the marksman glance up at him, "Take care of our brother" he said. He smacked d'Artagnan on the back as he walked towards one of the guards and shackled his hands behind his back, Treville had done the same to the other man. "NOW! lead the way" seethed Treville. The two guards held their heads down as they obeyed the two musketeers.

Chapter 24

Aramis had soaked the rag with water, he began to wipe away the dried bood on Athos' face and neck. d'Artagnan watched him, he could see the tears in the marksmans eyes. "What are you not telling me Mis" he asked. Aramis rung out the rag and poured more water on it, he glanced at the Gascon.

" He's been unconcious a long time mon ami, I dont like it, I pray there is no brain damage". d'Artagnan looked back at his mentors face, he felt sick at Aramis' words. He pushed back some hair from Athos' forhead and whispered loudly in his ear, " Come on Athos, we want you back with us brother".

Aramis looked at his little brother and gave him a worried smile. He took out his cruscifix and kissed it as he whispered some words of prayer. d'Artagnan felt the lump in his throat growing.

/

The Duke of Buckingham stood at his desk in his chamber going over plans, he had a goblet of wine in one hand. The knock at the large wooden door made him glance up. " Yes, who is it" he asked raising his voice.

"Me Sir, Captain Geron" came the reply.

The Duke took a swig of wine, " Enter" he answered.

That moment the door creaked open, The Duke hadn't looked up as he continued to look down at his plans.

Treville and Porthos entered behind the two guards. The Duke continued to look at his plans as he spoke. "Well did you bring him to me" he asked.

" No they bloody didn't" growled Porthos. The Duke suddenly looked up and reached for his sword.

"I wouldn't if I were you" seethed Treville as he pushed past the two shackled guards. He had his musket pointed at the Duke.

" What is the meaning of this, and who are you two" asked The Duke glancing at the two guards.

" Drop your weapons belt NOW! growled Porthos. The Duke eyed the big man up and down as he unclipped his belt. "You havn't answered my question gentlemen". said Buckingham in his strong English accent.

Treville glared at him, " You have one of my men as prisoner, I want to know why, I also want to know why he was left to almost bleed to death in a cell, and shackled".

Porthos had his mad face on as he to glared at the Duke, " That man is my friend and you got these two pieces of shite to beat 'im to a pulp". The big man glanced at the two guards, who both lowered their heads down towards their chests.

Treville scanned the chamber, his eyes widened as he noticed the cot with the leather straps. The blankets lay in a tangle as though they had been used. Treville had a strange sickly feeling in the pit of his stomach.

Treville walked slowly up to the Duke and stared into his face, "I am Captain Treville of The Kings Musketeers, I and my men are here to take my injured man out of here, and you my English friend are going to help us do that.

Buckingham eyed the two guards, " You pair of stupid idiotic court jesters" he seethed, " I was wrong to trust any of you in the first place."

"You fail to realise Sir that I am The Duke of Buckingham, and if I am hurt in any way, our King will know about it". "As will our King if you don't abide by my intsructions". seethed Treville.

Porthos felt the rage brewing inside him, his fists had clenched.

" Sod your bloody King" he growled, " Anything 'appens to Athos and I will personally 'ang you myself".

"HOW! dare you speak to me in that manner you..you" he was cut short as Porthos lurched forward, "YOU WHAT? he growled out in the Dukes face.

The Duke went silent as he glared at the big man, then back to Treville.

Treville eyed the Duke, " I am most interested Sir as to why you are here on French soil". he asked. " The last time you came across the sea was the siege at LaRochell". Treville paced the floor not taking his eyes off the Duke. " I aslo would like to know as to why you wanted plans for the Royal Palace from Athos."

Buckingham watched the older musketeer as he stopped his pacing and stood glaring at him for an answer.

" It was not I who wanted the plans, those idiot pirates asked for them, otherwise they would kill me". he replied. Glancing at Porthos as he stared at him.

Treville grinned, " Do not insult my intelligence Buckingham, you really expect us to believe that tale". he seethed. " You wanted those plans for yourself, you wanted to impress your king. Now what did you have planned?".

Buckingham glared at Treville, "We are in peace time, why would I be planning anything?" he asked.

"Because you are a coneiving bastard, who gets other men to do his dirty work". growled out Porthos. "Now you are goin' to help us get Athos home"

The Duke had poured himself a goblet of wine and took a mouthful.

" Why would I want to help one of Louis' musketeers" he smirked putting down the goblet.

" Because it was YOU! who gave the orders to have my musketeer beaten and left for dead". Yelled out Treville. " We are going to get him out of here and you Sir and any of your lackies are not going to stop us".

" You do realise there are more guards around this Chateau" said the duke, " I dont think they are going to stand around whilst you and your men walk out of here".

" Thats where you are wrong, added Treville, " If you don't order the guards down, I will personally take you as prisoner and drag you back to Paris myself. I am most certain King Louis would be most interested to see you."

Porthos felt a grin forming on his lips as he watched the Dukes reaction to Trevilles words. The two guards exchanged glances.

The Duke stood rigid as he looked from Treville to Porthos the to the guards.

"What do you want from me?" he mumbled.

Medical supplies, for my injured man, right now. answered Treville. "Including wine to disinfect his wounds".

Chapter 25

Aramis had placed his own folded jacket under Athos' head as he continued to stem the flow of blood from the wound.

" Where are they damn it" he growled through clenched teeth, as he glanced up at d'Artagnan. " I can only do so much with what rags I have".

That moment d'Artagnan reached for his pistol as he heard footsteps getting closer.

His face lit up as Porthos emerged from the dark passage carrying a crate. The big man walked into the cell and placed the crate of medical supplies on the floor in front of Aramis, " There you go Mis, how is he?" he asked.

"Still the same" answered d'Artagnan, hasn't moved once".

" You took your time," said Aramis searching the crate and taking out clean cloths, and a bottle of wine. He found the suture kit, he was looking for. He poured more wine on his hands and began to thread the needle. " I need one of you to hold the edges of the skin together as I sew" asked the medic glancing up at his two friends. d'Artagnan bent forward and did as Aramis had said. The medic began to stitch Athos' arm.

d'Artagnan eyed the crate of stuff, " How did you manage to get all this" he asked.

" That bloody bastard Buckingam, I wanted to kick the shit out of 'im, thinks he's better than everyone else". growled Porthos a he watched Aramis stitch Athos' arm. " Treville threatened to take 'im prisoner if he didn't give us what we wanted".

" Tell me he's gonna be alright Mis," he asked changing the subject.

Aramis didn't look up as he answered, he carried on stitching the wound.

" I pray to God, he will be mon ami, I really do, I don't like the fact he is still unconsious, they really gave him a beating, Cowards, knowing he couldn't fight back".

Porthos and d'Artagnan exchanged glances as Aramis spoke.

" Don't get me goin' Mis" growled Porthos, " Otherwise I will end up killin' someone". d'Artagnan felt the lump in his throat again. " He is strong my friends, he will be fine, I know it". he murmerd.

Porthos clapped the Gascon on the back and gave him a sad smile.

Aramis finished the stitches, and dabbed more wine onto the wound.

" You did good d'Art" he said grinning at the young man. " I thank you"

d'Artagnan glanced up and smiled, " Anything to help Athos" he answered.

Aramis squeezed the Gascons shoulder with a wink. " I know".

"Right we need to get this shirt off him so I can wrap, his broken ribs, he continued.

Porthos helped this time, "Slowly mon ami, we don't want to make the breaks worse". The two men managed to pull Athos' shirt up above his chest, Aramis began to bind the long cloths around him, as Porthos held his body away from the floor.

"My God , look at those bruises Mis, bloody COWARDS! seethed Pothos, feeling his eyes glazing over at the thought of what their brother had enjured.

Aramis finished the binding, and they both pulled his shirt back on and lay the musketeer back down. Aramis took out a blanket from the crate and placed it over their friend. He picked up the water skin.

"Hold him up Porthos while I try and get some water into him" ha asked.

Porthos did as he was asked, gently as not to injure his ribs further. Aramis squeezed Athos lips open as he slowly poured water in. Suddenly Athos' eyes began to flicker making both men exchange glances.

Aramis stroked his hair away from his face, " Athos! Athos! can you hear me mon ami". he asked. Athos started to tremble, "No, no, leave me..me alone go aw..away".he murmerd.

"It's alright my friend, you are quite safe, we are here with you" replied Aramis.

Porthos and d'Artagnan got closer to their brother as he came round, dArtagnan took hold of his hand and squeezed, " Come on Athos, open your eyes for us brother".

Athos seemed to do as he was asked as he opened his green eyes wide, he stared at the three men looking down into his face. " Hu...hurts" he groaned. He put his hand to his ribs and winced, " Please...do..don't let them ta..take m...me". Aramis stroked his brothers hair, " Do not fret brother, noone is taking you away from us, I promise". he whispered into Athos' ear.

"They'll 'av to get past me first my friend" growled Porthos with a grin." I wont let the bastards 'urt you.

"You need to drink some water mon ami, you must be thirsty" said Aramis as he and d'Artagnan held him up to drink. Athos drank a couple of slugs back and winced again in pain.

Aramis responded as he noticed his brothers wince, " You have a couple of broken ribs mon ami, I will make you a pain draft as soon as I am able."

Athos closed his eyes as he sucummed to darkness again, "ATHOS! gasped d'Artagnan as he looked at Aramis in horror.

Aramis felt the swordmans pulse, " He's passed outagain, mon ami, its the blood loss from his arm". Aramis face had changed to worried as he glanced at his two friends, " We really need to get him out of here as soon as we can, I don't want his arm becoming infected, and this place is full of rats".

Porthos had stood up, " I will go and find out how Treville is gettin' on with the Duke". he said. " Maybe we can get him to one of the chambers".

Aramis was nodding his head, " Go my friend" he answered.

Chapter 26

Treville was stood at the window in the Dukes chamber, he turned to look at the Englishman.

"Why are you here Buckingham? he asked eyeing him as the Duke sat at the table.

The Duke lifted his face to look at him, "Unfinished buisiness Treville, unfinished buisiness". he answered. He glanced around as the two guards still sat shackled to the chairs. "Get these two idiots out of my chambers" he seethed " I have things to discuss".

"You really think I am going to release them, so they can bring back reinforcments" responded Treville glaring at him.

The Duke shook his head, " They wont, because if they speak of this to anyone I will have them hanged". he answered.

The Duke stood and walked over to the two men, they both looked up as he approached. " I am warning you both, I always keep my word, so take heed".

Treville unshackled both men, "Get out of here, both of you, and remember, if he doesn't hang you I will". The two men nodded. "Sir".

As the door was opened Porthos arrived, he stood looking at the guards.

"WHY! are they free,he growled. Treville cut him off as he spoke. "Its alright Porthos, they know they will suffer the concequences if they say a word to anyone". Porthos gave them both an angry look, " Bloody right" he growled into their faces. Both man left.

"How is Athos? "asked Treville as he walked back into the chamber.

"Aramis said he's worried he might get an infection Captain, we need to get him out of that cell". answered Porthos.

The Duke looked up as Porthos entered, " Do you mind I need a word with your Captain". he seethed. Porthos glared at him, " My friend is badly injured in that stinking hole, he needs proper care".

Treville put a hand on Porthos' shoulder, " I'm certain the Duke wont mind if we bring Athos in here to rest Pothos". he said calmly.

The Duke looked at Treville as he poured more wine into a goblet, " Certainly, there is a cot over there, you can put him in that". he said sarcastically. " We can't go upsetting the Kings musketeers can we.

Porthos could feel his anger rising again as he eyed the back of the Dukes head.

Treville caught Porthos glance, " Bring Athos back here Pothos, at least he will be more comfortable."

Porthos nodded, "Sir" he replied, he shut the door behind him.

/

" He has a lot to say that one" said the Duke, " You need to rein him in Treville".

"When I take advice from you Buckingham, will be the day HELL freezes over, Porthos is one of my elite soilders, he is merly concerned for his friend". Treville amost spat the word out. " I just want to know why you are this side of the sea, and why you wanted plans to the palace".

Buckingham smirked at the question as he turned and eyed the older musketeer.

" You are like a dog with a bone Treville, once you get something between your teeth you dont let go". he seethed.

Treville glared at him, " When an Englishman starts asking about plans to the Royal Palace, well that is my job to ask questions".

The Duke, chuckled to himself, " Our King is unaware of my trip across the sea, he thinks I am visiting a cousin in Dover Castle, he is also unaware of me asking for so called plans".

Treville frowned as he listened to the English Duke, "I don't comprehend, why are you here?"

Buckingham took another swig from the goblet, "There was someone I personally had to see again..." The Duke was cut short as a knock came to the door and Porthos' voice could be heard.

" Captain, it's us, we have brought Athos". Treville opened the door and stared in horror at the limp body Porthos carried into the chamber. Followed by Aramis and d'Artagnan who both eyed the Duke with hate in their eyes.

Treville lead his men towards the cot," Put him down here Porthos", he said as he stared back at the Duke. " I hope your proud of yourself Buckingham, this boy was left for dead".

" Why are there straps attached to the cot?" asked Aramis, as he glanced around the chamber.

" I will soon get rid of those" growled Porthos, taking out his main gouche and cutting through the leather.

The Duke slowly lifted his head towards the cot, he watched as the three men tended to the wounded musketeer. He felt his face burning, he suddenly felt sick at what he had done to this young handsome man.

The Duke jerked out of his reverie as he heard Treville speak, " My medic needs hot water and cold water, and some herbs for the pain." came the demanding voice.

Buckingham nodded as he reached for a piece of parchment and quill, he began to write.

" If one of you take this to the men outside the main doorway, you shall get what is needed." He held up the note.

Porthos snatched it from the Dukes grasp, " I'll go Captain" he said, not taking his eyes off the Duke.

" Make haste my friend," added Aramis as he dabbed Athos' forehead. d'Artagnan held his mentors hand willing him to recover. The door closed behind the big musketeer.

Chapter 27

Aramis now had what he had asked for and was checking Athos' wounds, he had put on fresh dressings and had washed away the dried blood from his body. The bowl of hot water had turned crimson as he rung out the cloths.

Porthos and d'Artagnan had aided Aramis best they could, even finding him a clean shirt from one of the drawers.

"Why is he still unconcious Aramis" asked Porthos with worried features.

Aramis glanced up as he tucked the blanket around Athos' body, " It's the blood loss mon ami, and getting such a bang to the head hasn't helped him much either". he responded shooting a angered glance to the Duke as he sat at his desk.

d'Artagnan also glared over at the Duke then back to his wounded mentor.

"Will he be alright to travel Aramis" asked Treville.

Aramis nodded, " I should think so Captain, as long as we can find a cart, we can make him as comfortable as possible, besides Paris is only a day away.

Treville glanced around at Buckingham," Oh I am certain, our Duke friend here will let us have a cart".

The Duke didn't answer, too lost in his thoughts.

That moment, d'Artagnan sat up straight as he noticed Athos' eyes begin to flicker followed by a low groan. He glanced from Aramis to Porthos, his own eyes wide with joy. "He's waking up, look Aramis he's waking up".he gasped.

Aramis and Porthos both looked at their friend, Aramis stroked back his hair as he spoke,"Athos! Athos can you here me mon ami, can you open your eyes for me?"

Athos slowly opened his eyes, and tried to talk, " A..mis, he gasped"

Aramis smiled from Porthos to d'Artagnan, " Yes I'm here mon ami, how are you feeling?".

"Hu..hurts, my he..head hurts" responded Athos. Aramis reached for the pain draft he had mixed earlier, "I am going to give you something for the pain my friend, it will help you". Athos gasped again, "Yo..you found me".

Aramis smiled, " Yes mon ami, we found you, just in time to".

Porthos was at the other side of the cot, he stood to help Aramis lift the swordsman up to drink the draft. He smiled at him as Athos glanced at him, "Good to see you awake brother" he murmered. Athos drank the draft and the two men lowered him back down on the pillow.

d'Artagnan took Athos' hand in his and squeezed, " You had us all worried brother". he said. Glancing up as Treville joined them, Athos looked up at his Captain. " Where am I?" he gasped. Treville patted his lieutenants shoulder as he answered. " LaHarve Chateau Athos, but we are going to take you home". Athos slowly put his hand towards Aramis arm, " Thir..thirsty" he gasped.

Aramis poured water into a cup, "You can drink as much water as you want my friend, it's just so good to see you awake". he grinned as he and Porthos held him up to drink. Athos sipped from the cup, his blurry eyes noticing the Duke sat at his desk watching him, he blinked away the blur and felt his whole body begin to tremble, he felt sick. He suddenly felt like he couldn't breath, his face growing pale. The shaking didn't go unnoticed by Aramis and Porhtos who both exchanged glances.

"ATHOS! what is it" asked Aramis looking up at Treville. Athos breathing became like gaspes as he suddenly screamed out, " Nooooooooo, GET HIM AWAY FROM ME! get him out of here, get him away".

The four men stood up, and looked at one another in amazement as Athos became almost hysterical. He tried sitting up but, shreiked in pain as he fell back against the pillow again.

Aramis and Porthos held him down,"It's alright mon ami, you are safe, noone is going to harm you". said Aramis.

d'Artagnan watched his friend as his body trembled, he could feel tears filling his eye's, what had made his friend react like this.

Treville turned to glare at Buckingham as Athos screamed out. Both mens eye's met across the chamber. Treville felt sick to the stomach, as he stared at him. What had he done, to make Athos scream out like this, it was not him.

"PLEASE GE..GET ME OUT OF HE HERE! I ca..can't stay here, please Aramis please, Pothos...d'Artagnan HELP ME!"

Aramis glanced at his brothers in turn as he helped Porthos to hold him down.

"What is wrong with him Aramis" gasped out d'Artagnan.

Aramis and Porthos also had tears in their own eye's. " I dont know, I need to make him a sleeping draft.

Porthos sat on the cot and cradled his brothers head against his chest trying to calm him as Aramis mixed the draft. Athos seemed slightly calmer as he spoke in a murmer, " Get him away please Porthos". Porthos carried on holding him as he rubbed his neck with his fingers. "Shhh, it's alright brother, it's alright, I promise I wont let anyone hurt you." he whispered.

Aramis held the mixture to Athos' lips, " Come mon ami, drink this for me" he said. Athos sipped the mixture and winced against the taste, " I know brother, its not nice, but it will help you". said Aramis as he watched him swallow. Aramis and Porthos caught each others eye's, both filled with tears for their brother. Porthos face had set to angry. d'Artagnan sat the other side of his mentor as he slowly drifted off to sleep.

Aramis felt Athos' forehead for fever, he doesn't seem to be hot, but we will keep a watch just in case."he said.

Porthos stood and walked over to where the Duke sat, his face was mad with rage as he slammed his fist down on the desk. The Duke jumped.

"You see that did you?" roared the big man " see what you have done to him, I have never seen Athos react in that manner before, and he has been through a lot in battle. So what is that has made him so distressed huh?"

Aramis and d'Artagnan looked across at Buckingham both waiting for his answer. Treville felt the sweat buliding up on his own face, he poured himself a cup of water and swigged it back.

Buckingham glared at Porthos as he waited for him to respond.

" I don't know what you mean musketeer, he just had a beating thats all".

"Thats all " he says said Aramis standing and joining Porthos at the desk.

"My friend here is right, Athos never reacts like that to anything, someone has either threatened him with something evil, or he has been drugged, what is it?"

Porthos and Aramis exchanged glances as they both stared at the Duke, who had now poured himself a brandy". His hands trembling slightly he looked up at the two men.

" Well maybe the guards gave him something, I dont know, your friend asked for water, maybe they drugged it, I don't know". replied the Duke.

"You dont know much do you Buckingham?" seethed Treville. "I suggest you make sure someone has a cart ready for Athos, we need to get him back to Paris".

Porthos watched the duke as he stood. " I will get the guards to ready the cart for you now". he said opening the door.

Treville followed him. " I will come with you, I want no tricks" he said.

The door closed behind them.

Chapter 28

Treville and Buckingham walked down the tunnel, suddenly Treville grabbed the duke and pressed him against the stone wall. Making him gasp out for breath.

" What have you done to him you BASTARD! he seethed through clenched teeth.

The Duke was now struggling, " Noth...nothing..take your ha... hands off me". he gasped.

Treville still held him as he spoke, " Is that what Athos said to you IS IT? I know your disgusting little secret Buckingham, if I say anything to my men about what I know, you will be a dead man." Treville let go of his grasp and glared at him.

The Duke glared at the older musketeer as he straightened his tunic.

"There is a gallion in the harbour Treville" he said, " If you let me board it, you will never see me again, I give you my word".

Treville was shaking his head in disbelief, " All this was a ploy to get Athos back here so you could see him again, you took an instant liking to him in LaRochelle, didn't you? You disgust me, you are an animal Buckingham, you make me want to vomit".

Suddenly the Duke was on his knees leaning against the wall, " Please Treville I beg of you to let me go, I will get you what you want, just let me get aboard the Gallion."

"I should let your King know of this, said Treville watching the pathetic heap as he leaned against the wall.

That moment Captain Guson appeared with two guards, they all eyed the duke as he sat sobbing. Treville glanced up at them and grasped the captain by the arm.

" You all knew about him didn't you" he demanded gripping the mans arm tighter. The other guards exchanged glances with one another as Treville eyed them.

"We where following orders" answered Guson " He threatened to hang me and my men if we said anything to anyone, he said he would take us to England and tell the King we had committed treason, who would he believe him or us, he's a Duke for Gods sake".

Treville let go of his grasp and glared back at the duke." You really are the limit Buckingham, and you are going to pay for this". He turned to look at the guards. "I am in charge now, I want you to lock him in a cell utill I decide what to do with him"

Guson nodded as he gestured to his men to do as they where told, the guards grabbed at the Duke. He pleaded with Treville as he was dragged away.

"You dont have to do this Treville", he yelled from the darkness of the tunnel.

Treville turned to Guson, "What did he do to Athos?"

Guson's face went pale, "He had him strapped to the cot in his chamber, he made us leave, we heard your man screaming and shouting to leave him alone, It was..." Guson stutted his words.

Treville felt like he would pass out, My God, this man was an animal, he thought as he listened to Guson. What would this do to the man.

Chapter 29

Athos had fallen asleep after having taken the draft. His three brothers sat around the cot.

" In all the time I have known Athos, I have never seen him like that". said Aramis as he watched his brother sleep."Never".

" I dont like this one bit" responded Porthos as he looked from Aramis to d'Artagnan. "Something is not right".

d'Aratagnan watched the big man, his features deep in thought.

" What do you think happened?" he asked looking back at Athos.

Porthos toyed with the pummel of his sword as he spoke.

" I dont know, but I am gonna find out" he seethed. "I bet that bastard Buckingham has something to do with it".

Aramis stood and walked to the table, he poured out three goblets of wine.

" Yes I noticed how he started to tremble when you spoke to him mon ami". he said handing around wine to his two friends.

Porthos took a swig, " He'll do more than bloody tremble if I find out he's give "im drugs".

The three men glanced down at their brother. Aramis felt his forehead again and nodded. " At least he's not got a fever."

/

Suddenly the door opened and Treville entered alone.

The three men loooked up, " Where's the Duke Captain?" asked d'Artagnan.

Treville felt his insides churn. " I need a word gentlemen" he said slightly demanding. Ignoring the question from the Gascon.

Porthos and Aramis exchanged worrying glances. Treville looked pale.

"Did he get us the cart Captain?" asked Aramis as he joined the others.

Treville was nodding his head, " Yes we have the cart waiting".

"So where is Buckingham" asked Porthos repeating d'Artagnan's question.

The three men sat at the table and exchanged looks. Aramis couldn't help but notice the older mans behaviour, he seemed anxious and worried.

Treville sat opposite, he picked up the brandy and filled four goblets sliding them towards each man. He took a swig and placed the goblet down, he could feel their eyes on him, they would not like this one bit.

"He is locked in a cell" Treville began as he took another swig. Porthos eyed his Captain, " I don't understand, why now?". d'Artagnan leaned on his elbows not quite knowing where this conversation was going.

Aramis, felt something wrong as he watched the older mans demeanor, he looked sick.

"Captain are you alright, whats wrong?" he asked.

Treville looked to each of his men, he knew they deserved the truth about Buckingham. His head was filled with all kinds of thoughts, where do I start with this one. He had known about this man since the battle at LaRochelle.

What he didn't know is what the Duke had just said to him about Athos, therefore locking him in a cell, how he had wanted to see the young man again after first meeting him when he had saved his life aboard his own gallion. Treville remembered the day he asked Athos if anything else had occured onboard, he remembered the mans face when he actually told him what the duke was capable of, and the way he had actually vomitted at the thought. Buckingham was noted for taking a liking to young men, he had had an affair with King Charles cousin, but it was never proved. Others had even ran from the Royal Residence after what had happened to them, frightened beyond words at even saying anything to anyone. But this was Athos, and seeing the cot with the leather bindings was enough for Treville, seeing the man so distressed at just having him in the same room as him was all Treville needed, to know something had happened. And so he began, he told his story to the three musketeers.

Chapter 30

The Chamber was silent, each man lost in his own thoughts at what Treville had just told them.

Porthos sat with both fists clenched as he just stared at Treville his temples pulsated. His eyes had filled with tears, he had tried to control them but they just spilt down his face.

Aramis had stood and wandered over to the window, the others heard him as he vomited into a bowl and coughed aloud. His hands trembled as he wiped his own mouth with a rag and poured himself a cup of water. He could feel the lump in his throat growing bigger with emotion, the tears flowed down his cheeks.

d'Artagnan held his head in his hands as he took in what Treville had just told them. He to felt like he would vomit, he felt for his brother, hadn't this man been through enough in his life, now this disgusting evil man had done something he didn't even want to think about. How dare he do this to him, he now felt angry.

Treville had poured himself a brandy and knocked it back in one gulp.

Aramis was still staring out of the window as he spoke." We have to get out of here now, we need to get him back to Paris".

The others jerked out of their reveries at Aramis' words.

Porthos suddenly headed for the door, "I will kill the BASTARD!" he growled taking his pistol from his belt and opening it.

Treville stood rapidly and grabbed the big man by the arm, " NO! Porthos, NO! you can't do that, we have to get him on a gallion and back to England, King James will be informed as to his actions, they will do what has to be done".

Porthos glared at his captain, " He is gonna get away with this, isn't he? he will lie his way out of this you know he will".

Aramis and d'Artagnan had approached the big man as he spoke, both nodding in agreement with their brother.

Treville eyed his three men as they waited for him to answer, "I swear to you all, that the king will hear of this and he will be dealt with appropietely, you have to be patient with this gentlemen".

"PATIENT! are you kidding me, lets ask Athos that shall we". seethed Aramis.

"ENOUGH! snapped Treville, " Dont you think for a minute that I dont want to rush into that cell and string him up by the balls".

The three men, went silent.

/

Aramis walked up to the cot where Athos lay asleep, he picked up the leather strappings from the floor and walked over to where Treville sat. His face was set in anger. " Now we know what these where used for" he seethed as he threw them on the table top. " He must have had him tied down in here while...he..." Aramis couldn't finish his words as he broke down into tears.

d'Artagnan had stood and took Aramis in his arms as he embraced his brother. "Shhhh we will help him through this mon ami, I promise". d'Artagnan could feel Aramis' shouders tremble as he wept.

Porthos stood and joined his brothers, he wrapped his large arms around both of them. D'Artagnan is right brother. we are all here for him.

Treville sat watching his three strong, brave warriors as they cried for their brothers ordeal. They truly are brothers he thought, they would share his distress.

Chapter 31

Aramis sat next to Athos as he started to wake, his eyes fluttered open to see his brother smiling down at him.

"How you feeling mon ami" he asked stroking back his hair from his face.

"Thirsty Mis" he gasped trying to sit up, Aramis called Porthos over to help

him with their brother. Porthos was there in an instant, both men held him up as he drank back the water, both catching each others eye. Knowing what each other was thinking. Athos lay down again and winced, "hmf hurts he gasped.

"I know mon ami, you have broken ribs, we are going to get you in a cart and get you back to Paris.

Athos looked at his brothers as he lay back against the pillow, his mind wandering back to this very chamber, he realised he was laying on the same cot and began to feel uneasy. Tears filled his eyes and ran down his face, his ribs pained him badly. He caught Aramis by his shirt sleeve, " Mis, don't leave me alone here please, Porthos,d'Art..." he gasped through sobs.

Aramis patted his brothers shoulder and forced a smile, " Hey, noone is leaving you here alone, we promise". he soothed. "We will be leaving for Paris soon, we need to get you home".

Porthos glanced over to Treville who had stood to join them with d'Artagnan.

"How you feeling Athos?" Treville asked.

Athos looked at the older man at the foot of the bed, "I hurt alot" he answered.

Treville turned to d'Artagnan, "Come d'Artagnan, lets go and get this cart ready". d'Artagnan patted Athos on the shoulder and followed his Captain out of the door.

Athos tried to lift his head to glance around the chamber until Aramis stopped him. "Hey you stay right there mon ami, you will make things worse, we want those ribs to heal".

"Where is Buck...Buckingham? Athos gasped, " Tell me he isn't here, he is evil...evil".

Aramis and Porthos exchanged glances, " He is locked up in a cell my friend, you have no need to fret about him". growled Porthos clenching his fists once more.

Chapter 32

Guson had ordered his guards to help put supplies into the cart ready to carry Athos. Guson had briefed his men about Buckinham, and what he had planned to get the man to LaHarve. He had even had men collect the musketeers horses from the edge of the forest and had had them fed and watered.

Treville patted the captain on the shoulder, " I thank you for this Guson, I am pleased you where able to see what kind of man Buckingham really is".

Guson smiled slightly, " No Treville, It is I who should be thanking you, he had a hold over us because of his heritage, we will keep him here until you decide what is to become of him".

Treville nodded, "Good, once we arrive back in Paris, I shall be speaking with the King. I shall send word at haste as soon as I hear anything".

Guson nodded, "Thank you Sir".

Treville turned to d'Aragnan who was spreading out blankets on the cart ready for Athos.

"Lets go and get our patient" he said.

/

Buckingham sat on the floor in the cell leaning against the wall, his knees drawn up infront of him, his head leaning on his hands. The duke started to talk out loud to himself.

"I should not be in here", he yelled out, " I am of Royal blood, I am a Duke, all I am guilty of is loving someone, THAT IS NOT A CRIME!", his voice becoming louder. He brought up his face and stared at the arched ceiling, tears ran down his face. He began to scream out the words as he sobbed "ATHOS!" echoed through the tunnel.

Chapter 33

Porthos had picked up Athos in his strong arms and carried him out into the daylight. Aramis was watching Athos' every move, making sure Porthos didn't hurt him as he carried the precious cargo.

"Stop bloody fussin' Mis" responded Porthos, he's fine"

The big musketeer slowly lowered their brother onto the cart, as Aramis made him as comfortable as he could with the blankets. " I will stay in the cart with you mon ami". he said smiling down at Athos who nodded in response.

"I have plumped these blankets up as much as I could mon ami" whisperd d'Artagnan into Athos ear, hope you are comfortable on the journey".

Athos gave him a sad smile, "Thank you" he said.

/

That moment Sacha came running up to his new friends, he headed straight for Porthos, who smiled when he noticed the boy.

" I see you are leaving, one of the guards was saying", he panted out after the run.

Porhtos patted the boys shoulder, " I was about to come and say goodbye boy, you 'av helped us find our friend and for that we are most pleased".

"Is your friend alright? the boy asked craning his neck to look in the cart.

Porhtos followed his gaze, "He will be my friend, he will be".

Treville walked up behind Porthos and glanced down at the boy, he reached inside his pocket and brought out a purse of coins. He took the boys hand and put the purse in his grip. The boy frowned, " What is this for Monsieur? he asked.

Treville had a slight smile on his lips, " This is for you, we would never have found Athos, if you had not helped, this is a thank you from all of us".

Sacha felt his cheeks burning, " Why thank you monsieur, thank you" he answered, "I am glad you found him".

Porthos ruffled the boys hair and smiled, " You be good," he said mounting his horse.

d'Artagnan glanced over to him from his own mount, " And make sure them sheep don't get out agian". he grinned.

Porhos laughed aloud as they began to move off, Aramis looked at the boy from the cart and raised his hat with a smile. The boy waved.

Guson yelled at his men, "Open the gates". The gates slowly opened as they all rode out into the clearing, Guson watched as they rode towards the forest.

Chapter 34

Treville sat up front in the cart, Porthos rode behind and d'Artagnan rode ahead, they used Trevilles and Aramis' horses to pull the cart. The Seine ran along side them as they rode.

Aramis was with Athos as he made the injured musketeer more comfortable.

"How you feeling mon ami?" he asked as he pulled the blanket over his friends body.

Athos face had gone pale as he looked up at his friend, "Si...sick, going to...be" Aramis instantly grabbed the bowl he had brought with them from the Chateau and turned Athos on his side, the swordsman vomitted and coughed.

Aramis glanced up at the back of Treville, "Captain we need to stop now" he yelled.

Treville brought the horses to a halt and jumped down from the cart. He walked around to where Aramis was with Athos, Treville realised what was happening as he peered inside the cart.

"Whats wrong" Yelled Porthos, d'Artagnan had turned and joined his friends.

"I'ts Athos, he's vomitting badly," replied Aramis as he to got down from the cart holding the bowl. Aramis threw the contents into a bush and rinsed it out in the Seine." I need to give him some water" continued the medic climbing back onto the cart and reachin for the waterskin.

"Is it fever Mis," asked a concerned Porthos looking into the cart at his friend.

Aramis glanced up as he held the waterskin to Athos to drink from,"No, it's the concussion from the head wound, I will have to keep an eye on him, I had a feeling this would happen." he responded.

d'Artagnan glanced at Aramis as he turned his horse around, " He is going to be alright isn't he?" he enquired watching Aramis give his friend more water.

Aramis put a damp cloth on Athos' forehead and looked up at the Gascon, his face looked concerned. "I really hope so mon ami, I really hope so".

Treville had taken his place on the cart again and looked around at the two men behind him. " Shall I carry on Aramis, or do you want to tarry?"

Aramis nodded to his Captain, " Carry on, I think he should be alright for now".

Athos had fallen back into unconciousness again. At least that way they could travel at a quicker pace without him being disturbed thought Aramis.

/

They had been travelling for almost the full day now, it was now dusk and the sun had waned. They had made a couple of stops to water the horses and to take some food. The journey would take slightly longer with the cart in tow.

Aramis sat back in the cart watching his brother, making sure he could see the rise and fall on his chest. He slowly felt inside his shirt for his crucifix and kissed it. He said a prayer to himself for Athos, knowing what his brother had enjured at the hands of that excuse for a man. Aramis came out of his reverie as he heard d'Artagnans voice, he had scouted the road ahead and returned.

His horse snorting at the side of the cart as he spoke to Treville.

"Not far now Captain, I can see Paris through the trees ahead" he said.

Porthos had gone on ahead to ready the infirmary ready for Athos.

Aramis bent down to Athos' ear and whispered, "Did you hear that brother, we are almost home".

Chapter 35

Treville glanced at his men and breathed a sigh of relief as they entered the Garrison.

One of the stable lads was replenishing fresh hay as he heard the horses hooves clip clop through the archway. Followed by the cart. He suddenly ran to greet them. d'Artagnan dismounted and handed him the reins with a nod.

Porthos decended the steps on hearing their arrival, he walked across the courtyard. "Infirmary is ready Mis, all your medical supplies are waiting for you mon ami, Serge has got hot and cold water waiting, and he has prepared us some supper".

Aramis slapped the big man on the shoulder, "Good man, knew I could rely on him". he said.

Treville and d'Artagnan joined them as Pothos was lifting Athos' limp body from the cart. " Be careful mon ami". Aramis said collecting up his weapons belt from the back of the cart. Porthos smiled, " You know I will".

/

Serge was in the infirmary putting clean sheets on the bed as the doors swung open.

Aramis entered first followed by Porthos carrying Athos, and d'Artagnan behind them. Treville had gone straight to his office.

Serge's face changed when he noticed the wounds on Athos, he shook his head in disgust as Porthos placed the limp body on the table top.

"Who did that to 'im? the poor boy is black and blue". he asked.

"Don't get me goin' Serge" seethed Porthos, " I wanted to kill 'em, the bastards!".

Aramis and d'Artagnan undressed their brother down to his braises, trying their best not to hurt his ribs held him up as Aramis took off the used bandages and discarded them. Athos began to groan slightly as they worked on him.

"Pains..hurts" he gasped. Aramis was checking the stitchwork on his brothers arm as he spoke. " I know mon ami, I will give you a pain draft soon, we just need to bandage your ribs tightly".

Athos could see his brothers through the blur that hung over his eyes, his head ached badly. His whole body seemed to be in pain.

d'Artagnan had returned with a clean nightshirt as Aramis had finished washing him and rinsed the dried blood from his hair.

They soon had him in the clean bed that Serge had gotten ready for him.

Porthos started to chuckle,"What's so humourous my friend?" asked Aramis glancing up at the big man as he tucked the sheets around Athos.

"That bloody nightshirt you brought in d'Art' he 'ates wearing them, 'es gonna hate you".

Aramis was smiling as he glanced at the Gascon, " I do not care if he likes it or not mon ami, he is wearing it whilst he recovers" Aramis replied.

d'Artagnan laughed, " Its the only thing I could find, anyhow thats what its for".

Porthos laughed aloud as he looked at Athos unaware what he was wearing.

Aramis moved over to his work bench and mixed a pain draft for Athos.

Serge had taken away the crimson looking water and cleaned the table top ready for the men to eat supper.

Chapter 36

Treville had joined his men for supper around the table in the infirmary, Serge had made sure he had made enough stew and bread knowing the men would be hungry on arrival from LaHarve.

Athos was fast asleep as his brothers ate and drank ale.

" I will stay with him tonight" said Aramis filling up his tankard.

"You need to rest also Aramis" responded Treville, " We shall take shifts"

Porthos was nodding in agreement as he pulled his bread apart and dipped it in his stew. "Captains right Mis" you need your rest".

d'Artagnan patted Aramis on the back, " Looks like your outnumbered my friend" he said.

Aramis glanced over to Athos as he slept, " The pain draft has knocked him out" he said " Lets hope he gets a peaceful rest".

Treville glanced up at his men and lowered his voice.

"About what happened with Buckingham" he murmered as he eyed each man in turn. " We dont say anything to Athos himself of what happened, we have to let him tell us if he wants to".

"And suppose he doesn't Captain" asked Aramis, " You know how he keeps things to himself, this could brake him".

d'Artagnan could feel his eyes filling with tears, thinking about what his mentor had enjured. He tried keeping them under control but to no avail. "I could kill Buckingham for this he choked".

Porthos put his big arm around the young mans shoulders and pulled him in close. Porthos felt himself getting angry inside. " I told you d'Art' we are all here for him, he is not alone in this".

d'Artagnan sniffed as Porthos poured out some wine and put it in front of the Gascon. d'Arragnan forced a sad smile and nodded, he picked up the goblet and swigged back some of the contents.

Treville knew Aramis was right what he said, this could indeed brake the man, but they would bide their time and wait.

"Well gentlemen he said standing, "I bid you all goodnight, and remember Aramis you also get some rest".

Aramis nodded, "I will try Sir".

Porthos glanced at Treville, "Don't worry Cap'n, I will make sure he does" he growled.

Treville nodded as he headed for the door to a chorus of Goodnights!

Chapter 37

Athos woke in the early hours, his body ached and his head hurt too, he felt thirsty. He lay in the darkness, he could hear the soft breathing beside him. He turned his head slowly, he could just make out the body shape in the next bed to him as the moonlight shone through the window. Athos squinted his eyes as he noticed it was Buckingham. He felt his heart thumping in his chest, and he felt like he wanted to vomit. Why was he here?

I have to get out of here he thought, he could see the figure slowly sitting up and looking over at him, Athos tried in vain to get out of bed, but his ribs protested, and every time he lifted his head it to refused to let him move.

Athos could feel his face beginning to sweat with fear as the figure loomed over him.

"GET AWAY FROM ME, GET AWAY...LEAVE ME ALONE!" he yelled.

"Athos! Athos" came the voice taking hold of his wrists, it's alright it's me Aramis".

Athos watched as the figure lit a candle lighting up his face.

"You where having a nightmare mon ami, your safe, your in the infirmary".

Athos breathing calmed down as he realised he was looking at his brother.

"Aramis, I thought you where someone else, I'm thirsty Mis". he gasped.

Aramis poured water into a cup and held his brother by the shoulders as he drank. " I'm not supprised your thirsty my friend, you are very dehydrated".

Athos lay back against his pillow and looked up at his brother, "I apologise for rousing you Mis".

Aramis smiled, " No need for any apologies mon ami, I just want to see you get well again. Now tell me, how is your head? he asked.

Athos winced as he tried to move to his side, "Not as bad as before, its just my ribs more now".

Aramis nodded, " You took quite a beating my friend, I am just glad it was nothing internal. Now I want you to get back to sleep and rest, remember you are safe now". Aramis stroked his brothers hair away from his face, as he closed his eyes and fell back to sleep.

Aramis got back into the bed next to Athos, he lay on his side looking at his brother as he slept. His mind wandered to the nightmare he had just witnessed before him. He hated what this evil excuse for a man had done to their brother. He had to somehow get him to talk of it...that was going to be a task on its own. Athos was not one for talking about what was bothering him, it had taken him almost a year to tell them he was actually married to Milady de Winter, and she was another story...Aramis fell asleep.

Chapter 39

The dawn gave way to another sun drenched morning around the garrison, the courtyard was starting to come alive with muskateers and cadets sparring with one another.

Porthos and d'Artagnan entered the infirmary to be welcomed by Aramis.

"Morning my friends" he said as he glanced up from helping Athos to eat some broth.

Athos was propped up by three pillows as Aramis poured him some water and held it to the mans lips.

Athos turned to look at his brothers as they entered and forced a sad smile.

" How you feeling mon ami" asked d'Artagnan sitting beside him on the bed.

Athos winced in pain as he tried to sit up more, " Not as painful as previous" he answered.

Porthos stood at the foot of the bed grinning, " Glad to 'ere it, you 'ad us all worried". he growled.

Aramis glanced at his two brothers, " Plus he has eaten something, thats a good sign to recovery".

That instant Treville walked through the door, "Morning gentlemen" he said glancing at Athos. "And how you feeling son?".

Athos looked at the older man, " Better Sir, not as painful". he answered.

Treville was nodding his head, "Good, thats what I like to hear". He glanced at the other three men. " I am giving you all the day off so you can stay with Athos and keep him company"

Porhtos and d'Artagnan exchanged smiles with one another.

" Thank you Captain, I was 'opin you would say that" chucked Porhtos.

" We will make sure Athos is behaving Sir" grinned d'Artagnan.

Aramis raised an eyebrow as he glanced at Athos, " You certainly have alot of nurse maids my friend". he grinned ruffling the swordmans hair.

Athos half smiled, he was glad his brothers where here.

Treville turned towards the door, " I will be at the Palace gentlemen, I need to speak with the King".

Aramis locked eyes with Porthos, both men knowing what the other was thinking. Aramis had jestured with his eyes to ask Treville why he was speaking with the king.

Porhtos followed the older man out of the door. " Will you be informing the king of Buckingham Captain?" he enquired as both men crossed the courtyard.

Treville turned on the big man as he spoke, " Indeed I will, I have to know what will become of our Duke, God only knows what he will make of this Porthos.

Porthos watched as Treville took his horse reins from the stable boy. "Will you tell him what he actually put Athos through?"

Treville looked at the big musketeer, " He has to know, remember the king may act like a child at times, but he is not stupid".

Porthos nodded as Treville mounted the animal, with that he was gone.

Porthos watched as he went, hoping the king understood what his brother had actually been through.

Chapter 40

Aramis was mixing a pain draft for Athos when he arrived back at the infrimary. d'Aragnan was sitting in a chair at the bedside.

Porhtos walked up to Aramis on the other side of the room, Aramis glanced up. "Well? he enquired.

Porthos leaned against the wall as he spoke, " He's gonna tell the king what 'appened". he murmered in a low voice, " Not sure if thats a good idea or not".

Aramis carried on mixing the draft and poured it into a cup, " He better be discreat about it then, we don't want the red guard finding out about this".

Porhtos looked across the room at Athos and d'Artaganan, " Thats what I was thinkin, if I hear anythin' from them I will chop the bastards balls off".

Aramis made a grimmace, "Not littery I hope mon ami"

"He had a nightmare last night" added Aramis, " He thought Buckinham was in the room with him, until I lit a candle and he realised it was me".

"Bloody 'ell" said Porhtos, "One day I'm gonna get this bastard".

"What are you two talking about over there" asked d'Artagnan standing and walking over to his friends.

Porhtos and Aramis turned and smiled, "Just coming over there now mon ami. responded Aramis picking up the cup of pain draft.

Chapter 41

Treville paced up and down the passage outside the kings chambers.

How was he going to react to this, how would he word it. My God the king hated Buckingham, especially with what happened at LaRochelle.

The king had even met the man before he was crowned king, after staying in England for someones wedding.

Suddenly Treville turned as the large doors opened and he was ushered in by one of the couriers.

The king was sitting at his desk when Treville entered, he approached and bowed " Majesty" he aknowledged.

The king glanced up, "Ahh Treville, how are you this fine morn?" he asked almost in a shriek.

The king stood and walked over to his table of refreshments, he poured himself a goblet of wine and spun around on the captain.

"Help your self man, I am not one to drink alone" he said sitting back at his desk.

Treville poured another goblet out and joined the king. Louis waved a hand towards the chair opposite him for Treville to sit. He did as ordered.

The king looked at him, "Tell me, did you find Musketeer Athos?

Treville nodded, "We did sire, he was hold up at LaHarve Chateau".

The kings eyes widened, "WHAT? why would anyone take him there?"

Treville glanced around at the three courtiers, "If you don't mind Sire, I have something to discuss in private".

The king took a swig from the goblet and stared at the Musketeer Captain in amazement. When he noticed the mans face was set. He waved away the courtiers."Leave us!"

Treville siged, "I am most gratefull Sire,"

"Well get on with it man, what is it you need to tell me in such privacy for Gods sake?" he snapped out.

Treville began, " You know of the Duke of Buckingham I believe Sire?" he enquired. Knowing full well he did.

"What in Gods name has that rotten egg got to do with this, may I ask"? the king blurted out.

Treville wanted to grab him and make him listen.

"He was the one holding Athos in the Chateau, Sire".he responded watching the kings reaction.

Louis sat glaring at him, his face seemed to have paled. He stood and walked around to the back of his chair looking at Treville.

The kings voice had softened as he spoke, "What did he want with Athos?"

Louis started to play around with the goblets on the table as he turned his face away from the Musketeer Captain. He was lining them all up, he then picked up the carafe of wine and poured out more into his own goblet.

Treville watched him, his whole behaviour had changed from me the king to a vunerable man. He suddenly changed as he turned and returned to his sitting position opposite him.

" I take it Sire, you have heard of his behaviour with young men" he dared to ask.

The king was leaning his chin on his knuckles as he supported his arm on the back of the seat. He lifted his eyes to look at his Musketeer Captain.

" I have not heard Treville, I KNOW! he seethed," he disgusts me, he was arrested for sodomy when I was in England. One of the Kings male cousins, but of course he is one of Chales' favourites so he got away with it". The king frowned at Treville and took a swig of wine.

"Are you telling me what I think you are telling me Treville?"

The older man ran his fingers through his hair and siged. Before he could answer, the king had jumped in again...

..."You are, are you not telling me he did something to Athos?"

"It was a ploy Sire, to play out he wanted information from him, when really he just wanted Athos. He had him badly beaten and stabbed by the Chateau guards, who may I add where promised a fine price for obeying him."

Treville coughed and swigged back more wine, " He had the man strapped down to a cot whilst he...well I don't want to even think what he did to the boy, but he was like a man posessed when we got to him, Aramis is tending to him now, but none of the men have asked him about what happened, we believe he will talk of it when he is ready".

The King stood and started to pace the floor.

"The disgusting pig, I can't believe this, I shall send word of this to King Charles, something has to be done Treville, where is this piece of rot now?"

"He is locked in a cell at the Chateau, I thought it wise Sire" answered Treville.

"Excellent, Excellent, In fact I think I will have him brought here for trial, if Charles is displeased with that, so be it". added Louis

"What will he be tried for Sire"? asked Treville as he watched him pace.

The King stopped in his tracks and turned as though he was dancing. " I do not know that yet, but I will think of something Treville, " I will think of something". He looked at Treville.

" I want you to get your men to bring him to the Palace, I want to speak with him."

Treville bowed slightly, " Of course Sire, " May I be so bold as to ask His Majesty to keep this between us, for the sake of Athos, I wouldn't want him humilliated".

Louis nodded, " You do not know me very well do you Treville, I am not one to divulge such matters, especially where my elite guard are concerned...Now go man... he suddenly stopped Treville in his tracks as he asked, " I hope Athos is not too distressed by this, I wish him a rapid recovery".

Treville bowed, " Thank you Majesty, I am most certain he will recover with time Sire". He turned and left the Royal Chambers.

Chapter 42

Treville had returned to the garrison and hastly returned to his office, he put his doublet on the back of his chair and sat at his desk. The musketeer captain reached for a piece of parchment, picked up the quill and began to write.

A knock came to his door, "Come in" yelled Treville as he carried on writing. He glanced up to see Porthos and Aramis entering.

"How is Athos gentlemen" he asked as he heated the wax and sealed his letter.

"d'Artagnan is with him, I asked him to give him some lunch, at least he is starting to eat something". answered the medic.

Treville gestured to the two men to sit, they both exchanged glances as they sat.

Treville poured three goblets of his fine brandy and handed them out, he looked across at his two men.

"The King wants me to send some men to apprehend Buckingham and bring him to the Palace." he began.

Aramis leaned back in his chair and raised his brow, "I see, what does he intend to do with him when he gets him here?". he asked.

Porthos eyed Treville, "Did you tell 'im what he did to Athos?

Treville was nodding as he glanced at the big man, " The king already knew what he was capable of, he was disgusted when I informed him at what he had done, he is going to send word to King Charles, to have him tried at the Palace".

The two musketeers glanced at one another, " What will he be charged with Captain?" Porthos asked as he shifted in his seat.

Treville shook his head, "He is not certain at present, we dont really know what this monster did to Athos".

Aramis' face paled as he thought of his brother. "I dont know if this could be a good or a bad thing Captain, Its something we can't force Athos to speak about". he murmered.

Porthos pulled one of his angry faces, " Who will you be sending to get the bastard Sir?. he growled. " I will go if you will allow it."

Treville looked across at the bog man, " We want him to arrive in one piece my dear Porthos, I will send Marcell, Lucca, and Lynoll they are quite capable of this."

Aramis had a slight grin on his face as he glanced at Pothos, he patted his shoulder.

Porthos looked at him, "Don't know what you mean Cap'n, I would never 'urt a prisoner". he chuckled. "Especially a Duke".

Treville grinned ," Well I am not going to take that chance my friend".

" Now get back to Athos, both of you and send Henri to ready the horses".

The two musketeers stood, nodded and shuffled out of Trevilles office.

Chapter 43

d'Artagnan smiled at his brother as he helped him to lay back against the pillows after having eaten some cheese and bread. Athos winced in pain through his teeth with a hiss.

" It's still agony is it not my friend" d'Artagnan asked as he removed the plate from the bedside table.

Athos nodded slightly with a gasp, " It's every time I move, lt takes..m..my brea..breath away".

"Come my friend you should drink something". said d'Artagnan pouring from the pitcher.

Athos pulled a face, please d'Art...not again, hu..hurts to sit up". he gasped.

That moment Aramis walked into the Infirmary followed by Porthos, both men looked over to Athos and d'Artagnan. Aramis caught the tail end of what Athos had just said and walked over to the bed, he got the other side of d'Artagnan and they both lifted the swordsman up to drink.

" Easy does it, I know it hurts you mon ami, but you still need to drink plenty".

d'Artagnan smiled at his two brothers, " Well I got him to eat some cheese and bread, I think I would make a good nursemaid".

Porthos laughed aloud as he sat on the next bed, "Yeah, your right boy, I can just see you in a nurse's apron".

Aramis chuckled as he helped Athos back down onto his pillows. Athos give him a slight smile. The medic squeezed his shoulder, I will make you a pain draft".

d'Artagnan glared at Porthos with a frown, making the big man laugh even more.

Porhos had stood and sat in a chair near Athos, still chuckling at his teasing of the Gascon.

" What do ya think Athos, the welp in a nurse apron".

Athos looked at the big man and smirked slightly, " I can also see you in three sewn together my friend, because one would not surfice".

This time it was d'Artagnans turn to laugh aloud, as Porthos glared at his wounded brother.

" You my friend are deffinatly on the road to recovery, it's a good job you are

'urt, or you would be pleadin' with me to put you down". he growled as he shot a wink at Aramis who had just walked back to the bed.

Aramis was smiling at Athos' comment, and patted the big man on the shoulder as he walked passed him to the swordsman.

This time Porthos helped Aramis to lift Athos up to drink the pain draft.

"I need to check your arm Athos, I want to make sure it is healing well". commented Aramis as the two men lay him back down again".

Aramis unbuttoned the nightshirt and pulled it back to reveal the top of Athos' arm. " Good, good" he said as he checked the stitches and wound for infection. " Healing well my friend". He buttoned the nightshirt back up and squeezed Athos on the shoulder.

Athos gave him a nod. " When will I be able to get up?" he asked

Aramis frowned, " Not yet my friend, you have badly broken ribs and need to rest as much as possible".

d'Artagnan smiled, " The Captain has give us time off to be with you Athos, so you wont be lonley".

" Yeah, we are all here to keep an eye on yer my friend" growled Porthos.

"I don't think I will be going anywhere" Athos responded with a smirk.

Aramis was changing the bandages on the swordmans wrists where the shackles had dug into his skin, "How's your head mon ami" he asked glancing at his friend.

Athos was watching the medic as he wrapped clean bandages around his wrists.

"Not as painful as previous Mis". he answered. "Can I have some wine please".

Aramis grinned, "I was waiting for that question to arise" he replied.

Porthos and d'Artagnan smiled at one another, as they glanced at Athos.

" Now yet my friend, you still need to drink plenty of water and I want to keep an eye on that head of yours, you had bad concussion". Aramis responded as he finished off binding the mans wrists.

Athos pulled a face like a spoilt child," Water is boring and tasteless".

Porthos laughed aloud, "Tell you what 'thos, " I will abstain from ale and wine until your better".

d'Artagnan was nodding, "Good idea, I will do the same".

"As will I gentlemen," Aramis added, " You will not suffer alone my friend".

Athos forced a smile, " You don't have to do that for me".

Aramis looked at his friend and smiled, " You know we will do anything for you mon ami".

Athos felt a lump forming in his throat as Aramis spoke, he loved them so much. He was so glad he had them in his life, he silently thanked God for that. because without them he would be nothing. In fact he would probably be dead by now.

Chapter 44

Two days later...

The Duke of Buckingham was marched down the Palace corridor towards the Kings chambers, both hands shackled behind his back. Musketeers Marcell, Lucca and Lynoll had brought him back from LaHarve Chateau to Paris.

Treville was already with the King when they arrived. The door was opened and a red guard informed King Louis of the arrival.

Louis glanced up, " Have him brought to me, and then leave us". he ordered.

The red guard bowed, " Yes majesty".

Louis turned to Treville, " Do you want your men to stay Treville?" he asked.

Treville shook his head, " I would be most pleased if it was just, thats if you do not mind Sire". he answered.

" Ofcourse, ofcourse, Louis said hastly, "Now where is this feind?"

Suddenly the large doors where opened and Buckingham was shoved in and made to walk over to the king. His face was pale and drawn, as he lifted his face to look at King Louis of France.

Treville motioned to his men to leave them, the three men bowed to the king and left.

The king sat on his throne and glared at the man as he stood in the middle of the floor.

"BOW to me you imbecile, " Louis ordered as he stood up.

Buckingham bowed slightly, " May I ask his majesty as to why I am here in Paris, and in the royal palace".

Treville didn't take his eyes off him as he stood there, how he wanted to knife him right here and now.

" You are charged with a crime most heinous on one of my musketeers, and I think you are already aware of what you have done". My dear duke.

Buckingham slowly shot a glance at Treville as he stood glaring at him, then back to the king.

"I do not recall any such crime your majesty, my memory fails me". he sneered. "You must remind me as to what I have indeed done".

Louis paced the floor, he stopped in front of Buckinghams face and stared at him.

"DO NOT! play games with me Buckingham, " You know very well why you are here". he yelled out.

The duke almost jumped out of his skin as the king raised his voice.

"YOU are a disgusting pig, who has used one of my best musketeers for your own satisfaction, now what have you to say about that"? Louis demanded.

Buckingham, was looking up at the ceiling a slight smile on his lips.

"WELL? answer me man," demanded the king once more.

Treville was still glaring at him, he could feel the anger inside him rising, this man was one pompous piece of shit.

"When are you people going to realise that it is not a crime to be in love with someone". spat out Buckingham.

Louis and Treville exchanged looks.

Treville felt sick inside.

" Are you telling me you are in love with musketeer Athos?" asked Louis in astonishment. His voice almost high pitched with shock.

Buckingham stared down at the floor and then back up at the king.

"Yes your majesty, I am in love with the young man. What is wrong with that?"

Treville rushed to his side, " You really are one sick individual Buckingham" he seethed through clenched teeth.

TREVILLE! Yelled Louis,

Treville bowed, "I apologise Sire".

Louis approached the duke and eyed him up and down.

"King Charles will hear of this, that I promise you Buckingham, I have agood mind to have you hanged for sodomy". he murmerd in his face.

"The king knows of my ways your majesty, I doubt he will be suprised by my new found love".

Louis glared in disbelief, " You are delusional Buckingham, Athos is not interested in the likes of you, it is all in your head".

Buckingham started to laugh aloud, "Oh he will, he will come to love me as I do him".

Treville couldn't believe what he was hearing, the man has to be mad.

Louis took Treville to the side and whispered, " He seems obsessed with the man, I am going to have him taken to the Bastille, until I here from King Charles."

"GUARDS! Louis yelled.

The doors opened immediately and two red guard appeared.

"Take this man to the Bastille, he is to await orders from England" said Louis.

The guards nodded and grabbed Buckingham by the shoulders, " Move" one of them ordered.

The duke was ushered out of the doors still laughing to himself as he went.

Louis turned to Treville. " He is a mad man Treville, I cannot punish him for that".

Treville glared, " He is feigning Sire, he knows what he is doing, it's his way of getting released can't his majesty see that?"

"ENOUGH! Treville, we must wait for the kings response". demanded Louis. " Now get back to your men, I will send word in due course".

Treville turned on his heel and bowed, " Majesty" he said and was gone.

As he walked down the passage Treville felt like the whole thing had been a waste of time. How was his men going to react to this, and what about poor Athos, my God how would he feel about this. Treville was unaware of his fists clenching, I should have let Porthos finish him off at the Chateau.

Chapter 45

Treville had summoned Aramis, Porthos and d'Artagnan to his office to let them know what had occured at the palace. They had left Athos sitting up in bed playing card games with Serge, who had promised to call Aramis if needs be.

The musketeer captain had informed his men of the behaviour of Buckingham in front of the king. And the obsession he had with Athos. Saying how in love with the swordsman he really was. And that it was not a crime to love someone.

The three men each exchanged glances with one another in awe of what Treville had just relayed to them.

Aramis had leaned forward on Trevile's desk with his head in his hands, he couldn't quite comprehend the situation. He slowly looked across at his captain shaking his head in disbelief.

" What is wrong with this man? He certainly sounds like he has some sort of notion going on in his head about Athos". he said.

Porthos growled, " You should 'av let me get rid of the bastard Cap'n, he's a bloody mad man".

" I almost want to vomit" added d'Artagnan, " He sounds like he has some kind of obsession with Athos".

" I think he should be taken back to England, and not be allowed to set foot on French soil ever again". said Aramis. "King Charles should have him sent to the tower for what he has put Athos through, this could traumatise him for years".

The others nodded in agreement with what Aramis had said.

"The king has got it in his head that he can't have him tried because he is mad" said Treville. " But he is feigning the whole thing it's obvious, but Louis doen't see that".

" I dont believe this is 'appening, how long is it gonna go on, who will be next? growled Porthos. " Some poor other sod?".

"Surely King Charles will realise that he is not fit to be around young men, I believe he did the same to the kings cousin?". asked d'Artagnan.

Treville nodded, " Yes, that happened six years ago, the poor lad ended up shooting himself, because he didn't think anyone would believe him over the duke".

Aramis glanced up as Treville spoke, his face looked full of anger.

" Well he is not going to do that to Athos, we are going to be hear for him when he needs us" he seethed.

Porthos clenched his teeth together at the thought,"If anythin' 'appens to 'thos I will search this earth for the BASTARD! he growled. "And tear his balls off".

They all glanced in Porthos' direction and winced.

" Yes my friend I believe you would" Aramis responded.

Chapter 46

"You 'av bloody won agian boy" chuckled Serge as he picked up the cards to shuffle. "Glad we aint playing for money, I would be poor as a church mouse by now".

Athos smiled at the veteren musketeer, "You have won a couple Serge, maybe not just as many as myself".

That moment the Aramis walked through the door followed by Porthos and d'Artagnan.

Serge glanced at the three men as they walked up to the bed.

"Hope he has been behaving himself Serge". Aramis enquired grinning in Athos' direction. Athos raised an eyebrow with a smirk.

"Of course I have my friend, we have had a few good games of cards whilst you where gone". he answered.

Serge stood and placed the pack of cards on the bedside table, "He has won nearly every bloody game boys, I was sayin' it's a good thing we aint playing for money or I would be singin' for me supper tonight".

Porthos laughed out load, " There is no way he would 'av beaten me Serge, I am the best card player this side of Paris".

Athos rolled his eyes, "That my friend is because you cheat".

d'Artagnan sat on the next bed grinning as he listened to the banter betwwen his brothers.

Porthos pulled face, "I only cheat with the red guards, you know how dense they are, couldn't stop a pig in an alleyway".

Everyone laughed at Porthos' comments.

Serge turned on his heel, " Well I better get some dinner ready for you boys" he said walking towards the door. "That chicken stew won't cook itself".

Athos glanced up at the older man, "Thank you for the company Serge, I enjoyed the games". he said.

Serge called out as he opened the door, " Anytime lad" he responded.

/

Aramis plumped up Athos' pillows, "How you feeling mon ami" he asked the swordsman.

Athos smiled, " The pain in my ribs is not as bad, but my arm still feels sore Mis" he answered laying against the pillows again.

"That is to be expected, after taking a beating like you did my friend". replied Aramis pouring out water from the pitcher and handing it to the swordsman, "Thank you" said Athos.

Aramis checked his brothers head wound, "Yes healing nicely, if I may say so myself". he said raising an eyebrow.

d'Artagnan grinned at the medic, " Nothing wrong with self appraisel my friend," he remarked.

Porthos sat in the chair next to Athos' bed, "Your lookin' better 'thos, glad your on the mend, you scared us all to death when we first set eyes on yer".

" I should think it would take alot to down our Athos" said d'Artagnan, " But it is good to see you getting stronger my friend". he said.

"Hey, it's a certain someones birthday in a couple of days" said Porthos eyeing Aramis as he joined them around the bed.

"Oh yes " It's your birthday isn't it Aramis? added d;Artagnan.

Athos smiled, " Please tell me Mis, that I will be able to have a drink for your birthday".

Aramis smiled at his brothers in turn then back to Athos, " We will see my friend, depends on how you are feeling on that day".

"We could always have a celebration here, I suppose". said d'Artagnan

Porthos grinned "That is a bloody good idea whelp, what do yer think Mis?"

Aramis was chuckling, " Fine with me, but that does not mean Athos can drink".

Athos pulled a face like a child who had just been told he couldn't play with his favourite toy.

Aramis leaned forward and kissed the top of Athos' head, " That is not a no mon ami, we will see how you are feeling on that day". He squeezed his friends shoulder and grinned.

Porthos laughed aloud, they all watched as Athos pulled faces.

Chapter 47

Buckinham sat on a wooden chair in a large chamber at the Bastille, he glanced around, a small cot was situated in the far corner with a bedside table to one side. A small cabinet agianst the stone wall with a couple of books on the top of it. He stood and wandered around, he could hear cries of dispair from other prisoners and told to shut up by the jailers. He walked up to his cell door and noticed two red guard laughing and joking. Buckingham grimaced as he noticed a couple of rats scurrying past the cell door.

Buckingham caught the attention of one of the guards and beckoned him over.

"What do you want Buckingham?" demanded the guard not moving from his comrades side.

Buckingham grinned slightly. " Just a word please my man". he replied.

The guard moved towards him leaving the other man to go his own way.

" I said WHAT?" he spat out, "Is your cell not to your liking, what did you expect my dear Duke, a Royal bed".

Buckingham glanced up and down the passage then back to the guard.

" I want to do business with you my friend" he murmered eyeing the guards reaction.

The guard frowned, " Are you completley mad? Why would I want to have anything to do with the likes of an Englishman, Especially do business with him".

Buckingham smirked, "Now you see, I knew you would say that, but you dont know what it is I propose yet my friend".

The guard laughed, " I am not your friend Buckingham, now I suggest you get some sleep its going to be a long night".

He turned to go, Buckingham put his hands on the barred gates and called him back.

"Listen to me, just give me a few minutes to explain something to you".

The guard slowly turned, he eyed the Englishman. " Are you deaf Monsieur? I said no".

"Listen, listen please I can make you a very rich man...please just listen". Buckingham ranted.

The guard glared at the Englishman, he walked back to towards the cell doors, glancing around to see if any other guards had appeared.

"And just HOW! are you going to do that from inside a prison cell?" he smirked.

Buckingham put on one of his business faces and smiled, he looked at his fingernails then back to the guard.

" If you get me out of here, I will pay you a handsome sum of livre my man".

The guard was staring at him, this man was either mad or maybe he was innocent of his crime. He didn't quite know what this man was accused of.

" I never go back on my word I swear, I will pay you what you want, you can get away from here, go somewhere else, whatever pleases you, you deserve more than what you are paid for guarding pieces of scum all your life".

The guard knew he was a man of Nobility, he was related to the English Royal Family for Gods sake.

Both men stared at each other for seconds, the the guard spoke.

"May I ask you, what exactly have you been accused of Buckingham?"

Buckinham smiled, "You see they have locked me up for taking a lover, dont you think that is strange?"

The guard glared at him in disbelief, " Why would they do that, unless ofcourse you have stolen the Queen from the King". he sniggered through a laugh.

Buckingham grinned, " You miss understand me my man, I am in love with one of the kings musketeers, we are lovers".

The guard stood with his mouth gaping open, he couldn't quite beleive what he was hearing, he felt his insides churn with excitment of having something on the musketeers, he wanted to tell the rest of the men, my God this was going to ruin the famous regiment. He couldn't quite contain himself as his eyes grew wider with curiosoty.

"You better not be playing games with me Buckingham, are you lovers or not? he enquired.

The Englishman eyed him, "Why would I lie over something so dear to me?"

"WHO? which one, tell me, WHICH ONE! he asked with jubilation.

Buckingham knew the red guard loathed the musketeers, he knew how he was playing this out, he also knew that they would live on this for years. How they would taunt them no end, yes this was going to be revenge. He was enjoying it very much.

"If I do this, swear you will pay me 1000 livre for your release". said the guard who now looked full of mirth.

" I have already told you my man, I will pay you what you want, I swear".

The guard leaned forward towards the gates, his face still full of glee as he murmered in low tones.

"You have forgotten Buckingham, you did not reveal who your lover is".

Buckingham leaned against the cold wall and sighed, he glanced up at the guard. He couldn't help but notice the anticipation in the mans voice.

"Athos, his name is Athos" he responded with a smirk.

The duke almost laughed out loud at the look on the guards face, this was going to be the best revenge yet. He thought.

The guard stood rooted to the spot as he glared at Buckingahm in awe. He suddenly let out a loud laugh, followed by a snort.

"Well I've heard it all now, Athos of the kings musketeers prefares mens arses to that of a whore". he carried on laughing.

Chapter 48

Athos opened his eyes and stared up at the familiar ceiling. He turned his head to see Porthos fast asleep in the next bed. He tried his best to swing his legs around to a sitting position, he gasped as the pain in his ribs still took his breath away. He looked again at Porthos who had not flinched once. Now this is the tricky part he thought to himself, trying to stand up. Athos leaned on top of the bedside table and finally got himself to his feet. Unaware of the door opening behind him.

" Ere, excuse me my friend, but where do you think you are going?" asked Aramis as he walked into the chamber followed by d'Artagnan.

Porthos suddenly awoke and glanced around as though he was ready to fight.

"Whats going on " he growled.

Aramis who was now at Athos side and helping the man to stand, glanced at the big man with a frown.

"You where suppose to be watching him mon ami".

Porthos yawned aloud and rubbed his eyes. " I was Mis, I didn't hear 'im get up".

Athos gasped with the pain, " Its not his fault Mis, he needed the rest you all do, I'm fine now". he responded.

Aramis looked at both men in turn, "I think I will be the judge of that my friend, your ribs are still healing, and you know it hurts you to breath still".

d'Aragnan was grinning as he caught Aramis' glance. " I will go and get us all some breakfast. he said. " I am not getting involved in this".

" I need the chamber pot Mis" said Athos, " Its all that water you made me drink".

Aramis grinned," Come I will help you over there. Aramis put the pot on a chair to make things easier for him. "There you go". he said. "Shout out when your'e ready, I will help you back to bed."

Athos nodded.

Aramis joined Porthos as he sat on the bed pulling on his boots, he lowered his voice to the big man as he spoke.

" Well any nightmares"? he asked.

Porthos straightened his boot and shook his head, " I didn't 'ere 'im Mis, think he got a good rest last night".

Aramis nodded his head, " Good,".

"Mis" Athos called over.

Aramis stood and walked over to his brother, he put an arm around his waist as he helped him walk back to the bed.

"Right I need to check that arm wound my friend, and that head of yours".he said as Athos was helped back into bed.

That moment d'Artagnan and Serge entered the chamber carrying bread, cheese and ham. They placed it on the table.

" Well your looking alot better boy" commented Serge looking at Athos sat up in bed.

Athos grinned at the older man, " Thanks to this lot here Serge, I am alot better".

The older man smiled, " Glad to here it lad, now do you boys want ale or wine with this?"

His three brothers exchanged glances with a grin as Athos spoke.

" Ale please Serge," replied Porhtos standing and walking over to the food table.

Serge made his way to the door, "I will go and fetch it" he said.

/

Having changed the bandage on Athos' arm and checked his head wound the men sat around the table eating. Athos had a tray of bread and cheese as he sat up in bed.

" You boys got anything planned today with our patient" asked Aramis as he put cheese on bread to eat.

" Maybe a game of cards hey 'thos?" said Porthos glancing at the swordman in the bed.

" Along as you don't cheat my friend, I will gladly partake". replied Athos.

" He only plays to cheat mon ami, he knows no other way" grinned d'Artagnan

Porthos frowned, " I can play fair boys, I told you I only cheat with the bloody red guard". " A three year old could cheat that lot".

"I remember when you cheated with me my friend" put in Aramis as he glanced at d'Artagnan and Athos.

Porthos laughed out loud, "That wasn't cheatin' Mis, you where half drunk, you didn't know one card from tuther, I 'ad to carry you 'ome that night".

They all laughed out loud as the door swung open and Treville appeared.

He looked over to his lieutenant, " Well I must say Athos, you are looking better than you where days ago".

" Yes I must say Captain, I do feel better, must be something to do with our excellent medic". he replied.

Everyone glanced at Aramis who was grinning, he put his hand over his heart and bowed his head in jest, " Why thank you kind Sir, you all know I like to do my best when it comes to medical matters."

Chapter 49 The Bastille

The entrance into the Bastille was bustling with red guard as they counted in prisoners from the three horse and carts that had arrived. The men where shackled as they trudged through the gates, the sound of the chains as they scraped along the cobbles. A couple of men tripped up over the chains as they tried to walk only to be scolded by red guard.

"GET TO YOUR FEET PEASENT SCUM!" one of them sneered. Kicking the man as he struggled to stand.

In the shadows of the large entrance Buckingham stood with his new found red guard friend, both watched as the prisoners where ushered through the gates. Buckingahm was adorned in peasent clothing with a hat pulled down over his face.

" Don't betray me Buckingham" whispered the guard as he held on to his arm.

Buckingham carried on watching the prisoners as he spoke, " Do not fret my friend, I have told where we shall meet, do not tarry".

Six red guard walked past the two men unaware as they ushered more prisoners though the gate. They stood back in the shadows until they had gone past.

" When I give the word GO!" said the guard. Buckingham turned on the man, "How will you explain my escape" he asked.

The guard smirked, " Just leave that to me, right now GO!".

Buckigham slid from his grasp, and sprinted across the courtyard to the next gate.

The guard watched as he ran, got through the small door and onto the street, he was free.

The duke mingled with the outside crowd as they bustled around market stalls outside the Bastille. He pulled his hat down lower and his cape around his shoulders tighter, a slight smirk on his lips.

Chapter 50

The Musketeer Garrison

Treville sat in his office finishing off his paperwork, his desk covered in parchments and scrolls. The Captain was writing away when a knock came to his door.

Treville carried on writing as he yelled, " Come in," he did not look up as the man who entered walked slowly up to his desk.

Treville glanced up, the quill still in his right hand. One of the kings private messengers stood to attention.

"I have a message from His Majesty Sir, he asked if you could read it at haste".

Treville frowned at the man who stood as though rigid to the spot. He took the sealed letter from his grasp, opened it and began to read the script.

Treville felt his insides churn over, he suddenly felt his face becoming hot as the persperation formed around his forehead. My dear God, how was he going to explain this to the men.

Treville realised he was falling into a reverie, the messenger coughed.

" Yes er fine, I thank you for this, I will ride to the palace myself my friend".

The messenger bowed slighty, " Sir" he answered. He turned on his heel and disappeared through the door. Treville stared after him as he went, he sighed and poured himself a brandy. Leaning back in his chair he slooched the brandy around the goblet before slugging the rest back.

Treville stood and walked out onto the balcony, a group of recuits where sparring with one another. He noticed Henri sat on the bottom of the steps cleaning his weapons.

"Henri, find Porthos, Aramis and d'Artagnan, ask them to come and see me at haste".

The young man put down his weapons and stood to attention, " Yes Sir, " he replied as he sprinted away.

Chapter 51

Treville had his office door already open as Porthos and d'Artagnan entered he nodded towards the chairs for the men to sit.

" Where's Aramis" enquired the older man as he poured out brandy into four goblets.

" He's on his way Captain" answered d'Artagnan, " he has just put clean dressings on Athos' arm.

Treville nodded, his face looking tense, Porthos and d'Artagnan exchanged glances, both thinking the same thing, something had rattled their Captain.

That moment they heard footsteps as Aramis enterd the office.

"Sorry Sir, I was just..." Treville cut him short before he could answer." Its fine Aramis its fine, sit down and close the door."

Aramis caught both of his brothers concerned looks as he sat.

Treville,handed the brandy around to each man, " Your going to need this gentlemen". he said.

Porthos knew that look on his Captains face, " What wrong Sir". he asked glancing at his brothers.

Treville looked at the three men, " Buckingham has escaped, I've just had word from the king". he responded.

The three men stared at each other in horror as he spoke.

" WHAT? HOW? " growled Porthos.

" How do you escape from the Bastille?" exclaimed Aramis, " Its crawling with guards, all the prisoners are in locked cells...Mon Dieu what NOW?".

" Do you think he will make his way here Captain?" asked d'Artagnan

Porthos stood to his feet, " WELL I'LL BE WAITIN'" he growled " Just let 'im try gettin' in 'ere, I'll bloody kill 'im if he thinks 'es comin' for our Athos".

Aramis face had paled, " I think I should get back to Athos Sir" he murmerd, " I dont trust that mad man".

Treville was nodding in agreement as his men spoke, " Yes of course, I want you three to stay with him, don't mention this to him though, we dont want him becoming distressed, I am deploying some men around Paris, we have to find him, the king has also sent guard out".

" I meant to ask" he continued. " Has Athos mentioned Buckingham since he has been back here"?.

Aramis shook his head as he placed his goblet down on the desk.

" He hasn't said a word, I think he is trying to block everything out, Iv'e heard Doctor Lemey say something like that when someone has suffered a trauma, the brain is very complex".

Treville was nodding in agreement, " Yes that thought entered my head to". he responded. " I also know Athos keeps things to himself, I hope he is not suffering in silence".

" The thing that worries me Captain, continued Aramis." Is he could be suffering delayed shock, we will just have to wait and see".

Porthos glanced at the medic, " Well we will be 'ere if that 'appens, he will be just fine". he growled.

" He hasn't had any nightmares either so far" added d'Artagnan. " Well not whilst I have slept in there anyway".

" Aramis nodded at the Gascon, " I haven't witnessed any either mon ami".

Treville stood to put on his doublet, " You men get back to him, I am going out myself with some men, I shall return for supper".

/

The three men left the office walking in single file, " I can't beleive this " said d'Artagnan. " Like you say Mis, the place is crawling with guards".

"Yeah! And some are red guard, don't know who is worse Bastille guard or Red, all bloody idiots if you ask me". growled Porthos. " Wouldn't mind bettin' the bastard has conned his way out".

Aramis who was walking ahead of his two brothers turned suddenly. They all stopped in their tracks.

"WHAT! Porthos asked nearly coliding with his brother.

" If he has conned his way out, how has he done it? What has he said? Or maybe he has paid someone to get him out". answered Aramis. " He's as slippery as an eel, he knows every trick there is".

Porthos slapped his hand on Aramis shoulder as he turned to walk back to the infirmary.

" As Treville said boys, we will find the BASTARD! " growled Porthos.

Chapter 52

Buckingham walked slowly through the streets of Paris, his hat still pulled down concealing his face, the market was busy as people browsed around the stalls. Voices shouting out bargain prices for their wares.

Buckingham suddenly noticed musketeers walking towards him down the street. He stopped to look at crockery on one of the stalls, not taking his eyes off the three men in blue cloaks as they walked past him. He turned to watch as they continued on their way each man scanning around the market square, looking for him no doubt.

"You buyin' that or what" asked the stall holder glaring at him as he held a tankard in his hand. Buckingham realised he had been holding onto the thing whilst he watched the musketeers. He smiled at the man.

"Ere, no I apologise I dont think I like it afterall my good man". he answered. He raised his hat, and carried on walking. Leaving the stall holder in awe.

Buckingham knew he wasn't far from the musketeer garrison, he remembered the day he met the boy who gave him the directions. He also knew he would be arrested straight away if he even set foot in there. Buckingham sat on a bench to think out his plan when he heard a child voice yelling aloud.

"Look mama musketeers!" The childs mother grabbed her out of the way as the horses snorted to a stop.

Buckingham followed the childs gaze and noticed three more of the men in blue cloaks, this time on horse back. His eyes caught sight of an old house that looked like it was empty, he slowly crossed the street keeping his eyes on the musketeers in the square, one of them had dismounted and was speaking with a stall holder. Buckingham walked through the old dust ridden doorway and into the empty chamber, he watched through a crack in the wall as the musketeers carried on their merry way. Buckingham sat on the floor and gave out a loud sigh. I have to get out of Paris, but before that he had buisiness to see to with a certain red guard.

Chapter 53

Porthos and Athos had just finished playing cards. The big man had won the game. Athos pulled a face as he looked at the hand his brother had laid down on the table in front of him.

" You sure you didn't cheat my friend" asked Athos raising an eyebrow. " I have had four good hands in a row, I usually get five".

Porthos roared with laughter as he watched his brothers face, " Would I do that to my own brother?" he laughed.

Aramis and d'Artagnan exchanged glances and nodded. Just as Athos answered " Yes!".

" You are taking advantage of my disposition mon ami" said Athos smirking at his other two brothers.

" Your hands are working fine from where I'm sitting my friend" laughed Porthos.

Aramis and d'Artagnan couldn't help but laugh along as Porthos spoke. Athos looked across at him and grinned.

Athos turned to Aramis, " Can I go down into the couryard and watch the sparring" he asked.

" Athos, you still cannot walk properly, because your ribs are too painful, and I dont want infection getting into that arm wound mon ami". he answered catching Porthos' glance. Both knowing that Buckingham was on the loose around Paris.

" Save your strength for the morrow my friend". said d'Artagnan, " It's our medics birthday and you said you where hoping he would allow you to have a drink".

Athos suddenly brightened at d'Artagnans words.

Aramis smiled, " d'Arts right I may let you have a couple of wines my friend".

" And he don't mean bottles chuckled Porthos".

Athos picked up the pack of cards and looked straight at the big man.

"Have I ever showed you how to play fifty two card pick up mon ami?"

Porthos glanced at Aramis and d'Artagnan with a frown then back to Athos.

" Fifty two card pick up, never 'erd of it mon ami". "Go on teach me".

"Very well" he answered. Athos shuffled the pack of cards watched by the others. He then held them up and threw the entire pack at Porthos, the cards flying everywhere.

Aramis and d'Aratagnan roared with laughter as Porthos threw out his hands to try and catch them.

He looked across at Athos, and nodded his head.

" Very funny, my friend very funny!" I like that, fifty two card pick up my arse".

Porthos stood and patted Athos on the shoulder." I'll let you off with that beings your wounded and all that.

Porthos winked at Aramis and d'Aratagnan as he to started to laugh.

Athos looked at him and grinned.

That moment Serge walked in carrying a tray of food.

" Here's some stew for you boys, gotta keep your strength up"

d'Artagnan stood to help the man as he put down bowls of stew onto the table.

" Thank you Serge" said Aramis, " Smells delicious".

" Yeah well, thought I would make it chicken knowin' you all enjoy that".

The veteren musketeer walked out of the door, "Just get yer that bread" he called after him.

Aramis was scooping stew into a bowl when Porthos appeared by his side, he turned to make sure he was out of ear shot of Athos before speaking.

" Can't help wonderin' if they 'ave found that bastard yet" he murmered picking up a bowl.

Aramis handed the big man the spoon, " Just thinking the same thing my friend. " As long as he does not show his face here, he can do what he likes".

Porthos snorted, " I'll knock 'is bloody head off if he comes 'ere" .

d'Artagnan joined them at the table, " He would have to be a complete fool to even contemplate doing that". he said.

" I want to be out there looking for him, but at the same time I want to be here for Athos". said Aramis.

Porthos clapped Aramis on the back " Yeah, I know my friend, I feel the same, but I would never forgive myself if we did go out there and the bastard came here".

Aramis nodded, " Your right my friend. I would rather be here".

Aramis glanced over to Athos, he noticed how he seemed to go into a daydream as though he was reliving events. Porthos followed his gaze.

"Maybe Treville is right my friend" said Aramis. " He may be keeping things to himself".

Porthos patted his friend on the back, " Yeah well like I said, we are 'ere for him".

Aramis smiled, " Come on lets eat".

Chapter 54

The Boar Tavern was situated on the outskirts of Paris away from the bustling crowds of the market stalls. A bar wench collected empty tankards, giving idle chit chat to a couple of punters as they joked with her.

Buckingham sat in a dark corner, his eyes trained on the entrance. He took a swig of ale from the tankard as he watched.

That moment the door opened and he walked in scanning the room for Buckingham. He found him and approached the table.

"Didn't recognise you out of that uniform you wear my man". commented Buckingham.

" Never mind the small talk Buckingham, you know why I am here, and its not to discuss my attire, now where is my Livre."?

Buckingham smiled as he eyed him across the table.

"What can I get yer Sir?" Suddenly came the voice interupting the two men.

" I dont want a drink, now leave us alone" spat out the man.

The wench reeled back as he spoke, " Well, someone has got a temper I must say". she said.

" My friend will have a tankard of your fine ale girl, he is very highly strung at the moment, he is not having a good day". grinned Buckingham.

The wench nodded and walked away.

" I do not need you to explain how I am feeling to a complete stranger, now shall we get on with this". seethed the guard.

" Patience my dear fellow patience" smirked Bickingham.

"I think you are forgetting one thing Buckingham, there are Musketeers and red guard out there looking for you, it's only a matter of time until they catch up with you, and I am not hanging with you". seethed the guard.

" Do not fret my man, noone is going to hang" said Buckingham picking up his tankard and taking a swig of ale.

The wench returned and placed the ale down in front of the guard.

He glanced up at her with a nod.

The wench smiled but got no reponse, she frowned as she wiped the table.

"Some people 'av no bleedin' manners" she seethed out loud knowing the man could hear her.

He ignored her, and swigged from the tankard.

Buckingham eyed him as he drank back the ale. Gesturing to the girl to fill the mans tankard.

She appeared as if by magic and refilled it with a wink at Buckingham.

The guard looked across at the Duke, he seemed to be sitting in fog, he was talking but he couldn't make it out, he smiled, everything around him was spinning, everyone in there were sitting surrounded by the fog. What was happening. The Duke patted him on the arm and darkness came.

Buckingham stood and wrapped his hood around his head, he walked up to the bar wench and put a purse of coins in her hand. He smiled at her and whispered. "Thank you my dear, you did well".

The wench grinned as she checked the coinage. " Why thank you kind Sir" she replied.

Buckingham kissed her hand, turned on his heels and disappeared though the doors.

Chapter 55

Treville rode with two of his men through the streets. They had been out on the road for hours and it had amounted to nothing.

" You men go and get some rest, we will resume on the morrow" said Treville as he reeled round his horse. " I will carry on to the palace and let the king know the outcome."

" Very well Sir". answered Lucca as he nodded to the other musketeer. The two men rode off.

Treville turned and carried on towards the palace.

/

Treville rode into the palace grounds and towards the stables. A group of red guard where chatting and laughing together as he approached.

He dismounted and gave the reins to one of the stable boys with a nod.

Treville glanced at the group as he walked past, typical of this lot to lazing around, bloody useless lot.

" How is Athos, Treville, is he fretting after the Duke of Buckingham, I hear he is so in love" grinned one of the guards.

The rest of the group laughed out aloud.

Treville stopped in his tracks, he felt the anger rising inside. How did they know about Buckingham? Fuck! Fuck" HOW!

"Or maybe he has ran off with one of your men hey?"

They all roared laughing again.

" Hey men we had better watch out, we shall keep our backs to the wall if we spot Athos". Another load laugh escaped the group.

Treville told himself to keep calm as he turned on his heels and glared at the group as they laughed and snorted.

"Prey tell me gentlemen what you are talking about". he asked eyeing each man.

The guard with the big mouth walked forward and stood infront of the musketeer captain.

" Come on Treville, you damn well know what we are talking about. Your man Athos, he is a sodomite". He grinned. " Its all over the palace, and probably Paris by know".

Another guard walked forward with a grin on his face.

" Yeah Treville, You had better get back to your garrison and warn your men. Mind you I reckon he is fussy, he only goes with nobility like Buckingham."

Treville wanted to punch him right there and then but he knew he would be playing into there hands by doing that, who the hell had talked, he had to find out.

" I do not know who you men have been talking to but I will say this, whoever it was is a LIAR! I will not have Athos being blamed for something he is innocent of. The king will hear of this, if I myself hear one word of this nonsense again. I will have you tried for slandering my regiment. DO I MAKE MYSELF CLEAR?!"

The red guards glared at the Musketeer, some still wearing grins.

"Why would he make something like that up" asked big mouth.

Treville was now eye to eye as he glared at the man.

"HE? who are you taking about man?" seethed Treville.

Big mouth glanced at his comrades, some had dispersed and walked away.

"It does not matter who told us" he replied.

Treville was now angry. " When someone slanders one of my men, then I want to know who it is. You either tell me now or I drag you to the king"

Big mouth now felt outnumbered as more guards walked off at the mention of the king.

"WHO" Growled Treville. Grabbing him by the tunic. he let go pushing him back.

" It was Captain Rougee, he told us what Buckingham had said to him when he was in the Bastille, he told him that...he and Athos where lovers".

Treville wanted to vomit. My God, this bastard was one evil piece of dirt.

"Where can I find Rougee? seethed Treville. " And dont bother lying to me".

" He's not on duty today, he could be anywhere".answered big mouth.

Treville glared at him. "I need to speak with the king" he said walking away towards the palace.

The guard watched him go.

Chapter 56

" So you are saying that Captain Rougee has put word around about Athos" asked the king as he stared out of the window.

Treville's face was still reddened with anger. As he spoke to the back of the kings head.

" I was led to be believe that noone was to hear of this incident with Buckingham Sire, someone has talked and I would lay bets that it was Buckingham himself. He must have told Rougee when he was taken to the Bastille. Thats the way he works Sire. He manipulates people."

The king suddenly turned around and looked at Treville. He walked to his chair and sat.

" I am most displeased with this outcome Treville, I will have Rougee spoken to at haste." he responded.

" I would indeed like to speak to him myself Sire, I am most interested in to what Buckingham has been saying". commented Treville.

" Very well, I will have him brought to me on the morrow, I myself would like to hear what he has to say for himself."

Treville nodded his head in acknowlegment.

The king stood again and walked to his wine jug, he poured some out into a goblet and drank some back.

"Any news of this Buckingham yet Treville" he asked. Waving to the wine for the musketeer to help himself.

Treville picked up the jug and poured wine into a goblet.

" No news as of yet Sire, but I have men out searching as we speak" he replied. " I don't think he will get far".

" Good, good. I am starting to tire of hearing his name, sooner the better he is aprehended".

" May I be so bold in saying Sire, that I myself am displeased that he was able to escape from the Bastille. I was relying on the red guard to make sure that something of this nature would never occure within those walls". Treville added.

The King winced at Trevilles words as he sat back in his chair.

" I am well aware of that Treville. The men have been spoken to and I can assure you that if it was to happen again there will be concequenses".

Treville nodded, " Thank you Sire".

The king siged aloud as he looked at the musketeer captain.

" Well if there is nothing else Treville? I have a meeting with the Cardinal. And I will expect you on the morrow, shall we say 10 o Clock?

Treville bowed " No Sire that is all. And thank you 10 o clock if fine". he replied.

Treville turned and left the chamber.

Chapter 57

" How long has he been here" asked the Musketeer Marcel as he and two other men stood looking at Rougee as he slept, his head on the table and his two arm spread in front of him.

The landlord put his hands on his hips making his fat stomach look even bigger.

" The girl says he was here drinkin' and just fell asleep." he replied " I dont want the likes of 'im in 'ere puttin' off my punters".

The musketeer exchanged glances with each other. They knew Captain Treville had been looking for the man.

Marcel shook Rougee by the shoulder, " Come on Rougee, you need to come with us." Marcel shook him again with a sigh. " ROUGEE! wake up".

Slowly Rougee raised his head with a groan, he squinted his eyes as he scanned the room.

" What...ap happened" he slurred as he noticed the musketeers watching him.

" You fell asleep Rougee, and you need to come with us now, Captain Treville wants to speak with you." said Lucca grabbing him by the arm.

Rougee suddenly realised where he was and who he had been with, his insides churned, he felt anger rising inside.

" Fell asleep, DRUGGED! more like, I drank ale nothing more. I will kill him".

" Where is that BASTARD?!" he roared making Lucca reel back in awe.

" Who are you talking about man?" asked Marcel

Rougee clenched his teeth together with rage as he was dragged to his feet.

" DOE'S NOT MATTER!" he seethed.

Rougee noticed the bar wench as she cleaned tankards behind the bar, he pulled free and paced up to her.

" YOU! you seen who I was with, where did he go" he growled glaring at the girl in the face.

She stared in horror. " I do not know Monsieur, " he just left when you went to sleep".

Marcel and Lucca grabbed him again. " Enough of this, you are coming with us".

Other punters watched in awe as Rougee was taken from the esablishment by force.

The bar wench watched as he diappeared through the door, she could still hear his protests as he yelled at the musketeers. "I will KILL! the BASTERD!"

Chapter 58

Next Morning...

Porthos helped Athos back to the Infirmary, from the bathing chamber. He walked slowly back into the room wearing the clean nightgown that Aramis had left out for him the night before.

Aramis glanced up as the two musketeers walked through the door.

" Ah your back my friend, how did that feel" he asked pulling back the sheets for his brother to get into.

Athos sat back against the pillows and smiled. " Wonderful, the hot water has eased my pain alot".he answered.

"Good, good I knew it would" added the medic.

" He splashed bloody water all over me," Growled Porthos wiping down his uniform with a towel. " Putting that lavendar stuff in the water, I smell like a girl".

Aramis laughed, " It will not do you any harm mon ami, I am certain you smell very nice, as does Athos."

Athos was grinning, he held his ribs with his right hand trying not to laugh.

" Stop trying to make me laugh, it hurts" gasped the swordsman.

Porthos ruffled Athos' hair and smiled,"Just wait until your better my friend, I will be gettin' my own back on yer".

Bye the way Aramis, said Porthos turning to look at his friend.

" Happy Birthday mon ami"

Athos smiled, " Yes Happy Birthday my friend"

Aramis was grinning as he glanced at his two brothers.

"Why thank you my friends" he said bowing his head with a smile.

That moment the door opened and d'Artagnan walked in carrying a tray of food.

" Breakfast is served" he said placing the tray on the table, Serge followed behind him with bread and ale.

d'Artagnan glanced up at Aramis and squeezed his shoulder.

" Happy birthday Aramis my friend".

Aramis patted the Gascon on the back. " Thank you mon ami".

" So its your birthday is it lad?" asked Serge as he set out the plates on the table. " Well I 'ope you 'ave a good day".

Aramis nodded, " I will Serge, thank you".

/

The musketeers sat around the table eating breakfast. Athos had joined them at the table.

" This is for you my friend" grinned Porthos handing over a wrapped gift to the medic.

Aramis smiled, " Why my dear Porthos, you are most kind". he said taking the gift from his friend.

The others watched as Aramis unwrapped his gift . " Oh mon ami it is fabuleux, how did you know I wanted a new one". Aramis excamined his new medical bag like a child with a new toy his face stuck in excitment.

" Iv'e heard you complain enough about your old one fallin' apart". answered the big man with a grin.

d'Artagnan pulled something from the pocket in his doublet and also handed over a wrapped gift.

" Hope this is what you need mon ami" he said watching Aramis open it with a beaming smile.

" A new leather waterskin for my saddle, and my initials are inscribed on it. Oh d'Artagnan it is most pleasing, I adore it my friend." Aramis clapped his hand on the Gascons back with a huge grin.

" You are very welcome mon ami, I am pleased you like it. " said d'Artagnan with a grin.

Athos glanced towards Porthos. " If you will be so kind mon ami and go to my room and in the bottom drawer you will find a package" he asked as Aramis inspected his gifts.

Porthos nodded and left. Returning moments later with what his friend had asked for.

Athos smiled, " Thanking you my friend" he said taking it from the big man.

He handed it to Aramis, " Happy Birthday brother".

Aramis eyes widened with excitment, as he opened the gift. Aramis stared open mouthed at the gold embossed large book.

" ATHOS! this is wonderful." he gasped.

"Whats it about mon ami" asked Porthos as he watched his friend flick through the pages.

" My friends it is a medical book written by Ralph Winterton, he is an English Physican who became a scholar of Kings College in Cambridge. My God this is full of so many cases and new ideas.

" Athos my friend, you are so kind, I have been wanting this for so long but was never able to come by it."

He stood and squeezed the swordmans shoulder fondly.

Athos smiled, " Does that mean I can have a drink of wine later?"

Aramis grinned as he glanced at Porthos and d'Artagnan who where laughing out loud at Athos' comment.

" He's got you there my friend" grinned d'Artagnan raising his eyebrows.

Aramis sat down next to Athos and slid his arm around the mans shoulders, he smiled into his face."Very well mon ami".

Athos grinned, " I am grateful my friend, thank you".

Chapter 59

Treville broke the seal on the parchment that had just been delivered and read it.

He ran his fingers through his hair and siged, Henri who had been given the note was still standing in the room watching his captain read. Treville glanced up at the boy.

" Henri, ask Porthos, Aramis and d'Artagnan to come and see me right away".

Henri nodded, " Yes Sir". he responded and was gone in an instant.

/

Treville looked up as the three men entered his office. They stood in anticipation waiting for him to speak.

" Just to let you know men. Rougee has been apprehended. Marcel and Lucca picked him up very early this morning after falling asleep in The Boar Inn. The landlord had told them he could not rouse him. It was lucky they had to be passing by when he summoned them."

" Where is he now Sir" asked d'Artagnan.

" He has been taken back to the palace to be questioned, the king is expecting me in two hours time" answered Treville leaning back in his chair and stretching his arms above his head with a yawn.

" I think he should be brought 'ere for questioning, afterall it was two of our men who found him". growled Porthos. " Anyway I would like to ask 'im a few bloody questions of my own".

" I dare say you would" replied Treville glancing up at the big man." But the king knows what he has been saying and wants to speak with him himself".

" He should be stripped of his rank for what he did" said Aramis glancing towards his brothers.

The others nodded in agreement.

" Well we will see what becomes of him later. Dont worry I will try my best to make the king see him for what he is." said Treville in response.

" Any word of the other bastard Capn' asked Porthos.

" If you mean Buckingham, NO!" answered Treville.

He stood and put on his doublet, " I will let you men know what happens as soon as I can" he said clipping on his sword belt.

Treville walked toward his office door, " Well gentlemen I must go".

The three men followed him out onto the balcony. They watched as he walked down the steps.

" Oh and by the way" he yelled as he got to the bottom. " Happy Birthday Aramis.

Aramis bowed his head as he watched Treville go, " Thank you Sir" he said with a grin.

Porthos and d'Artagnan smiled. " Come on lets get back to Athos" said Aramis.

Chapter 60

The king sat on his throne. Treville and the Cardinal stood either side. The doors opened and Captain Rougee was escoured into the chamber roughly by Marcel and Lucca. He had both hands shackled behind his back as he was nudged forward towards Louis.

" BOW! to your king" roared the Cardinal glaring at him.

Rougee raised his head and bowed from the waist. " Your majesty" he muttered.

Treville glanced towards his two musketeers. " You may leave us gentlemen, I will summon you both is needs be".

Marcel and Lucca bowed to the king, and left. The large doors closing behind them.

Rougee stood on the spot not knowing where to look for the best. He just stared ahead.

Treville moved towards him and eyed the man.

" I have been informed that you Rougee have been slandering one of my musketeers to others in your regiment, Is that true?" he asked calmly.

Rougee carried on staring ahead, just his eyes moved as he glanced at the Musketeer Captain.

" What am I supposed to have said?" he asked.

Treville glared at him." I ask the questions, you answer them. Now have you or have you not been slandering on of my man? I will not ask a third time Rougee.

" I just heard something that one of the prisoners said, I might have mentioned it to my men". he replied.

" And has this prisoner got a name?" Treville asked as he paced around the man.

Rougee stared into his eyes, " I do not know his name, he just mentioned it when I took him his food".

Treville stopped his pacing and stared at the back of Rougee's head.

" Do not lie to me Rougee, you know quite well who I am talking about, NOW! what is this mans name?"

Rougee fell silent as he let his head fall to his chest.

"ANSWER THE MAN!" roared the Cardinal making the king flinch.

Rougee looked up and stared at Treville as he walked to face him.

Treville raised his eyebrow. "Well?" he added.

Rougee swallowed hard, he felt phyisically sick.

" It was Buckingham, The Duke of Buckingham, he told me that he and the musketeer Athos where lovers".

The Cardinal and Louis exchanged glances.

" And being the small minded man that you are Rougee, you believed every word he said, I am right?". seethed Treville almost spitting out the words.

Rougee wanted to turn and run, he cursed the day he even met Buckingham, the bastard had done the dirty on him and fled.

" He is a Duke, I believed him because of that, why would he lie to me?" he responded.

Treville smirked slightly, " Oh I see, so Dukes do not lie then, they always speak the truth". Treville came close to Rougee's face mere inches away as he spoke.

" Do you know how idiotic that sounds? You believed him because he was a duke. Why do you think he was in prison in the first place? Are you so dumb Rougee that you where taken in by this man?"

Treville pulled away from the mans face and glared at him.

" You helped him to escape did you not? "

Rougee glanced towards the king who was listening carefully, now and then he would look at the Cradinal.

" He promised me he would pay me 1000 livre, what man can refuse that kind of coinage?" he answered.

Treville was nodding as he met the Cardinals raging glance.

" He told me to meet him in The Boar Inn, thats where he said he would fetch me the livre...He must have drugged my ale...the next thing I knew is being roused by two of your men the next day".

This time the Cardinal walked towards the man, his face seethed with anger.

Treville watched as the Cardinal came face to face with him.

" You have let the King down Rougee, you have let the Red Guard down, you have also let yourself down, I am stripping you of your commission as Captain in the regiment as of NOW!.".

Rougee's face reddened with embarassment. " I plead with you Cardinal, I was led into this by a cunning vintictive man."

The Cardinal glared into his face.

" You became greedy, Buckingham used you for his own escape, he knew you would be swayed by the mere mention of coinage. You are simply a DISGRACE! GET HIM OUT OF MY SIGHT! Treville". he roared.

Rougee's face lowered to his chest as he wept.

The king beckoned Treville towards him.

" I will not have the red guards take him away, they will no doubt treat him well Treville" he said in a low voice. " Have your men take him to the Bastille until I decide what to do with him".

Treville bowed his head. " Yes Majesty"

Treville called in his two men at once. They entered, words where spoken between himself and his men. Then Marcel and Lucca bowed to the king, grasped Rougee by the arms and marched him from the chamber.

" We have to find this Buckingham Treville if its the last thing we do" said the Cardinal.

Treville nodded, " I concur Cardinal, but I ask if the red guard can aid my men in this hunt"?.

The Cardinal turned to look at the king then back at Treville.

" I think that is a splended idea Treville" said the king sitting back on his throne.

" Summon the Red Guard Cardinal, I want this Duke found"

The Cardinal glared at the Musketeer Captain. He loathed the fact that the king always seemed to side with him.

" Why of course Sire" he answered with a bow.

Chapter 61

Aramis filled a goblet with wine and handed it to Athos. The swordsman smiled as he took it, looked at it and took a swig.

" I have missed this my friend, thank you". he said "Happy Birthday Mis".

Porthos and d'Artagnan followed suit and toasted their friend.

"Yes happy birthday Aramis," they both said in unison.

"Thank you my friends and I thank you all for the wonderful gifts, I shall treasure them."

Athos smiled as he refilled his goblet with wine, he noticed Aramis watching him.

"What" he asked.

"Do not think for a minute you are going to drink the entire bottle mon ami, I said you could do it one step at a time" replied Aramis taking the bottle from the swordsman and placing it down. " You have to do it step by step, remember you are still having pain draghts."

Porthos and d'Artagnan laughed as they watched Athos pull a face.

That moment the door opened and Treville wandered in.

" How are you feeling Athos?" he asked as he filled a goblet with wine and swigged some back.

The swordsman smiled as he glanced towards his captain.

" Alot better thank you Sir, my ribs are still painful at times, but I get though it. nothing a fine wine wont fix" he replied as he shot Aramis a glance.

Aramis raised an eyebrow and grinned at his friend.

" I thought you boys would be outside on such a beautiful day as this" he said filling up a goblet of wine and drinking it back.

"Just thinking the same thought Captain, come on boys out we go" growled Porthos picking up two pichers of ale and heading for the door.

d'Artagan followed the big man carrying a tray of bread and cheese.

Aramis helped Athos to stand and usherd him out of the door.

/

Treville had followed the men outside as they set food and drink down on their usual table ready to celebrate Aramis' birthday.

Porthos walked over to where Treville stood and handed him a goblet of wine.

The older man took it with a nod of thanks. Porthos eyed him, he knew too well when the man had something on his mind.

" How did it go with the king Cap'n?" he asked him out of earshot of the others.

Treville took another swig of wine and glanced at the big man. " Rougee has been taken to the Bastille until the king decides what to do with him, as for Buckingham, he is still roaming free".

" Athos is alot better now Sir, I can join the search if you wish, I am certain d'Artagnan will also".

Treville patted Porthos on the shoulder." I may keep you to that son". he answered.

" Come, lets join this celebration" he added as they both joined the others.

Chapter 60

Following day...

Treville led the three men into his office and gestered to them to sit down.

" So Rougee actually admitted he helped Buckingham escape" asked d'Artagnan as he sat.

Treville was nodding. " Apparently he offered Rougee 1000 Livre, for his help, promised to meet him at The Boar with the coinage, but drugged his ale."

Porthos whistled out load at the very thought of 1000 lirve, " So thats when our boys found him I suppose".

" I take it Rougee has been stripped of his commission then" asked Aramis as he glanced at the others.

" Yes, the Cardinal was seething with anger. The king had him sent to the Bastille until he decides his fate." answered Treville.

" Stupid bloody fool" growled Porthos, pure greed that came to nothing, typical bloody red guard".

Treville looked across at his men. " Just to let you boys know, Rougee had told some of his men about Buckingham with Athos. One of them made a comment to me as I walked from the palace stables". Aramis and Porthos exchanged glances of anger.

" WHAT! kind of comment Captain?" growled Porthos

Treville eyed the big man," Dont worry I put them straight on the matter"

" With respect Sir, that is not what I asked, what was the comment?" pressed Porthos.

d'Artagnan patted Pothos on the shoulder knowing how angry the man was feeling.

They all waited for the older man to answer. " One of them asked me if I knew that Athos was a sodomite".

Suddenly Porthos shot to his feet, the chair also fell back with the force.

" I'LL KILL THE BASTERDS! he roared.

Aramis' face had paled he felt sick at what they where saying about their beloved brother. His eyes where stinging as he fought back the tears.

d'Artagnan had his head in his hands as he leaned against Trevilles desk.

Treville filled four cups with brandy and passed them to each man.

" Listen to me men, none of you can let the red guard antagonise any of you, that is what they want. We all know what they are capable of, but you boys are Musketeers and are better than to let them do this to you. Do I make myself clear?"

Aramis and d'Artagnan acknowleged what the captain had said, they both glanced at the big man as he nodded.

Porthos was now leaning against the wall, his head bowed looking down at the floor. He swirled the brandy round the cup and drank the rest back in one swig.

Treville stood and picked up his doublet from the back of his seat.

So Porthos and d'Artagnan, are you both ready to join the search for Buckingham? he asked as he put on the doublet.

The two men nodded, " Yes Sir" they answered in unison

That moment a knock came to the door, Treville who was already standing opened it to see one of the cadets standing there looking agitated.

" What is it Leon?" he asked eyeing the boy.

The boy glanced around the room noticing the inseperables looking at him.

" The delivery of medical supplies for the Infirmary has arrived Sir, I thought monsieur Aramis would want to know".

Aramis frowned at the boy then back to the others, " I have not recently ordered any medical supplies Captain".

Treville looked back at the boy. " Maybe they are meant for the palace Leon, where are they now?"

The man has taken them to the infirmary Sir, he was addament they where for us".

Treville caught the glances of the others, " What did this man look like Leon?" he demanded as he rushed towards the door.

" Ere...smart..tall..." He didn't finish his sentence before all four men raced from the office, down the steps and across the courtyard in a state of panic. Leaving the musketeer cadet open mouthed and in awe of what had just happened.

Chapter 61

Athos sat in the chair next to the bed reading from one of Trevilles books he had loaned him.

The door suddnely opened making the swordsman glance up expecting one or all of his brothers. He stared in horror at someone he wanted to forget, Athos felt like he was about to vomit. The book he had been reading slid from his grasp and fell to the floor. He started to shake uncontrolably, he couldn't stop it. His breathing was becoming shallow, he could feel the sweat beading on his face.

"Why Athos, it is so good to see you again. I have really missed seeing you". Buckingham smiled.

"GET...AWAY...FROM ME" yelled the swordsman, panic in his voice.

Buckingham moved towards him, the smile still on his face, Athos gripped a hand to his torso as his ribs started to ache.

" Oh you poor boy, you are in pain" smirked Buckingham as he got nearer to him.

Athos backed away from the duke, he felt the wall behind him and slid down to his knees holding his side.

Tears had welled in his eyes as he struggled to stand again, to no avail. He could not control the trembling, his whole body shook. Images filled his head from the time he had spent at the Chateau. " Get out of here NOW! he screamed at the man.

Suddenly the doors burst open. Porthos was the first though followed by Aramis and Treville.

" STOP RIGHT THERE BUCKINGHAM! roared Porthos aiming his musket at the back of the dukes head. He suddenly realised the duke was unarmed. He slipped the pistol back in his belt and swung at the man, grabbing him by the doublet Porthos punched him on the jaw knocking him to the floor.

Buckingham massaged his chin, and looked up as the big man towered over him.

"PORTHOS!" Roared Treville. " Not like this, he has to go before the king".

Porthos stood rigid to the spot as he glared down at the man who had abused his brother.

Aramis rushed to Athos and joined him on the floor as he sat against the wall.

He cradled the swordman in his arms. " Its alright mon ami, its alright, he cannot hurt you now I promise". he soothed as Athos gripped Aramis' shirt tight.

" GET UP YOU MAD MAN! " Seethed Treville as he glared at the man.

Buckingham slowly did as he was told, the smirk still on his lips. " But my dear Treville, I have done nothing wrong, I merly wanted to visit my lover again, where is the harm in that".

" I AM...NOT..YOUR LOVVVVEERRR" Yelled Athos as he still gripped Aramis.

Porthos and Treville exchanged glances with one another as he spoke.

" You are dillusional Buckingam," growled Porthos.

Aramis rocked Athos back and fourth as he wept openly. He soothed him with words of comfort as he stroked his hair. " Its over brother, its over". he whispered into the swordmans ear. "Do not listen to that evil scum".

d'Artagnan shackled Buckinghams hands behind his back, and pushed him forward towards the door. Marcel and Lucca had now arrived after hearing the comotion and aided the Gascon with his arrest.

" GET HIM OUT OF MY BLOODY SIGHT! " growled Porthos " BEFORE I DO SOMETHING I MAY REGRET!.

" Take him to the cells men we will take him before the king on the morrow". demanded Treville.

Buckingham turned around to look back at Athos as he still wept on the floor.

" I will miss you my handsome boy" he yelled over his shoulder.

Porthos lurched forward into his face, his teeth gritted together. " YOU DISGUST ME...YOU BASTARD!" he grabbed him by the collar.

"PORTHOS!" roared Treville. "NO..leave it".

The big man held him for seconds before releasing him and knocking him towards the door.

The duke glared at him and smiled, " Oh dear big man are you feeling left out"

Porthos face had set into his battle mode as he stared back at the duke.

Treville put his arm up in front of him, " He is insane, he will get whats coming".

" Come on you evil scum" seethed d'Artagnan as they led the duke away.

The doors closed behind them. Treville, Porthos and Aramis looked towards the doors as they heard Buckingham scream out "I LOVE YOU ATHOSSSSSS!".

Aramis still cradled his brother in his arms. He glanced up as Porthos joined them and sat the other side of Athos. Tears ran down Aramis' face as he tried calming him. The two mens eyes met across the top of Athos' head, both full of worry for their brother.

Treville sat on the bed watching as his lieutenant wept. He wanted to knock Buckingham black and blue for putting him through this, but he knew he couldn't. He wondered what it would do to his mental state. The boy was traumatised.

He put a hand on Aramis shoulder and mouthed the words " Will he be alright" Aramis glanced at his captain and nodded.

" We will make sure he is" he responded.

" Come Athos my friend, lets get you up and I will get you a drink of brandy" Aramis added as he and Porthos helped the swordsman to stand. His body still trembled as Porthos lifted him into the chair.

" I will fetch the good brandy " said Treville standing and walking towards the door.

" Thank you Sir" said Aramis.

Athos sat and stared into thin air, he was still breathing hard. But the tears had abated. Porthos squeezed his friends shoulder. " You are safe my friend, he has been locked away". he said.

Aramis wiped Athos face with a damp cloth. He had never seen him so broken before and he had seen Athos go through alot of tumoil in his life. Especially with that evil wife of his. But this was something more. He feared for his sanity.

Treville returned with the bottle of brandy and goblets, he stared to pour it out into each cup.

Aramis and Porthos joined him at the table. Treville glanced up at Aramis as he wiped his own tearful eyes.

The medics face had grown pale. " We need to watch him, this could brake him. I have never seen him so distressed in all the time I have known him".

Porthos and Treville nodded in agreement. " Do not fret mon ami, we will get him through this, we said we would when the time came." murmered Porthos out of earshot of his brother.

Aramis handed the goblet of brandy to Athos. He slowly raised his head to look at him. His eyes still glazed over making them look even more green than what they where already.

Athos shook his head to refuse. Aramis frowned with a slight smile." Come on mon ami this will help you".

Athos suddenly leaned forward, " SICK! Im going to... be... sick... Aramis grabbed the bowl from the table. He held his brothers hair away as he threw up.

" Easy mon ami, your alright now" he soothed rubbing circles on Athos' back. Aramis glanced at Treville and Porthos. All three men had faces full of anger.

Porthos hands clasped into fists as he watched his brother suffer the concequences of Buckingham. He caught Trevilles glance." I wanted to kill 'im, Cap'n".

Treville nodded, " Yes I did notice son." he answered as he picked up his brandy and swigged some back.

/

Aramis joined Treville and Porthos at the table. He had given Athos a sleeping draft and the swordsman was now fast asleep in bed.

Aramis drank back his brandy and shook his head with a sigh. " I felt so helpless at one point. He was so distressed, that is not our Athos".

Porhos clapped his friend on the back. " You did everything you could my friend. You where there for him when he needed you." he said.

Treville glanced across at the medic. " Porthos is right Aramis. You did everything right".

Aramis turned to look as his brother slept. " Lets hope he doesn't have nightmares. Something tells me it is not over".

The door opened and d'Artagnan walked in. He looked over towards Athos before sitting and joining his friends.

"How is he?" he asked as Treville filled a goblet with brandy and passed it to the Gascon.

d'Artagnan nodded his thanks.

" I've given him something to help him sleep mon ami. I just hope he gets a good night rest".

" The man is completly insane" said d'Artagnan in awe at what had just taken place. He lowered his voice as he spoke. " The man is convinced that Athos is in love with him, he kept calling his name."

Aramis leaned his elbows on the table and rested his head on his hands.

"I will stay in here tonight, I will not leave him whilst this is going on". he said.

"We will all stay my friend" replied Porthos pouring out more brandy.

d'Aratagnan nodded his agreement.

" No you two go to your own rooms, I will sleep in here tonight, I promise I will rouse you if needs be".

" You better had my friend" replied d'Artagnan patting Aramis on the arm.

" That goes for me also Aramis" said Treville. " You wake me if you need to".

Chapter 62

The cell was dark and dismill as Buckingham leaned up against the wall, his knees bent in front of him. His arms were wrapped around his legs as he rocked back and fourth humming to himself. The only light was a waning torch lit in a nearby sconce. He had a smile on his face as he said the words to himself" Athos, Athos, Athos, Athos..." SHUT YOUR FUCKING MOUTH! a voice yelled from the next cell. " Some of us wanna' sleep".

"SILENCE" Came another voice of one of the musketeer guards. SLEEP!

Buckingham smirked as he continued his rocking and humming. His eyes staring at the torch outside the cell, never blinking.

The musketeer guard walked up to his cell and looked in. He watched the duke as he carried on with his mantra not taking his eyes off the torch. He shook his head in disbelief, as he turned to his fellow musketeer.

"He has lost his mind, he has gone mad." he murmered. The other guard followed his gaze as he watched the man rock back and fourth humming to himself.

" Most deffinatley, maybe that is a good thing. At least he wont realise his fate when he goes before the king". he replied.

They both turned and looked at the man as he rocked. Before walking away and leaving him to his own world.

/

As night fell Aramis had checked his friend and got himself comfortable in the next bed. He lay on his back with his hands behind his head staring up at the ceiling, shadows danced against the walls as the candle on the bedside table burnt itself down. He couldn't help but think of what had occured earlier in the day. Aramis turned his head to the right where his friend slept soundly, he could feel the lump in his throat forming with emotion at what Athos had enjured at the hands of Buckingham. What had that evil man done to him to make him so distressed. Aramis turned back and carried on looking up at the ceiling before falling asleep.

Athos sat at the table in the courtyard waiting for his friends to join him. He looked up as he heard footsteps. Why was Buckingham walking into the Garrison, why was he wearing a musketeer uniform. He sat down opposite him and smiled. Morning my handsome Athos, I am in charge now not Treville, I have disposed of your friends , so now you are all mine. Athos wanted to throw up, he felt sick.

" Where are my brothers, what have you done to them. Where is the Captain" roared Athos. The sweat rolling down his face in panic. Buckingham stood and leaned forward to kiss his face...Athos yelled out loud " Nooo GET AWAY FROM MEEEEE!" He felt hands grip his shoulders tightly.

"ATHOS! ATHOS! Wake up my friend, its Aramis ATHOS!

Athos had sat up rigid in the bed, breathing heavily as the sweat poured down his face. His ribs ached with the sudden movment making hin wince.

He looked into Aramis' smiling face. Ara...mis he was a musketeer, he is in cha..rge...hes...in charge of the garrison...Buckingam is going to kill you all".

Aramis shook Athos by the shoulders once again." ATHOS! listen to me, Buckingham has been locked up. He cannot hurt you anymore. Noone is going to kill us, you where having a bad dream. Treville is our captain not him, do you hear me my friend?"

Athos stared into Aramis eyes. " He is locked up you say?"

" Yes my friend, he is locked up, he cannot hurt you. I am here with you. You are safe I promise". replied the medic as he squeezed the back of his brothers neck.

"Come now, you must get some rest".

Athos lay back against his pillows. Aramis dampened a cloth with cold water and wiped his friends brow. " Clear your mind mon ami. sleep".

Athos grasped Aramis by the wrist. " Stay with me Mis...next to me... please". he almost gasped out in fear.

Aramis felt the panic in his friends voice and smiled down at him.

" Of course mon ami, of course I will...now come on move over". he grinned.

Athos felt the warmth of his brother next to him. Aramis wrapped his arm around him, his mind thinking how distressed his brother had become, he silently said a prayer for him, hoping he would get through this torment. Athos suddenly whispered into the dark as he lay next to him.

"Mis"?

Aramis answered him." Yes my friend?"

"Don't leave me" replied the swordsman.

Aramis tightened his arm around him as he answered into the back of his brothers head.

" I promise, I wont leave you, now go to sleep".

Chapter 63

Next morning...

Porthos walked into the infirmary followed by Aramis, both men stared at what they both seen before them.

Aramis and Athos where still fast asleep side by side, Aramis still had his arm across Athos' shoulder.

They both smiled at one another. " Ive got a feeling someone has had a nightmare". murmered Porthos as he glanced at d'Artagnan.

d'Artagnan grinned, " Why, what do you mean? he asked.

Porthos sat at the table, "Athos has had nightmares in the past, this is the only way we can get him through it".

d'Artagnan nodded as he comprehended what his friend meant.

" I see" he replied. " Doesn't suprise me though after what Buckingham has put him through".

Porthos clenched his fists, " Dont remind me my friend, I wanted to kill 'im when I saw him yesterday".

That moment Aramis stirred and turned his head, he blinked and lifted his head up to see his two friends watching him.

"Mornin" murmered Porthos trying not to rouse Athos." I take it he 'ad a nightmare"?

Aramis slowly sat up as he glanced at the sleeping musketeer. He yawned as he sat on the edge of the bed and nodded towards his friends.

" Yes, this whole saga has shaken him up, I worry for him my friends". he replied as he reached for the waterskin and drank some back.

" I will fetch us some breakfast" said d'Artagnan walking to the door. Porthos stood.

" I will follow you on mon ami".he said glancing up at the Gascon as he left.

Porthos sat on the next bed and looked at his worried looking friend.

" He will get through this I know he will" he said patting Aramis' upper arm.

Aramis sighed and looked at Athos as he slept. He looked back at Porthos.

" He had a bad one mon ami, he was actually convinced Buckingham was in charge here at the Garrison. He thought we were dead and Treville. Iv'e seen some of the nightmares he has had over the years, but this was scary. His whole body was trembling all over, the sweat was pouring off him".

Porthos face turned grim as he listened to the medic, he glanced at Athos.

" Dear God, what did that bastard do to him" he said in a loud whisper.

Aramis glanced up at the big man and shook his head. He ran his fingers through his hair.

" I don't even want to think about that my friend, I just hope he will talk when he is ready".

Porthos nodded in agreement as he looked at the swordman. " I should 'ave finished 'im off yesterday".

" Yeah, you and me both my friend". added the medic.

Chapter 64

The Duke of Buckingham was brought before the king. His hands shackled behind his back. He stood with his head focused forward as if looking into thin air.

Treville, Porthos, Aramis and d'Artagnan stood behind him as the King rose from his throne to speak. Louis walked forward and eyed the duke up and down.

" You appear to be making a habbit of this Buckingham" he said " I am growing tired of looking at your idiotic face".

Buckingham carried on staring as though in a trance, he cast his eyes downward.

"I have been informed by Captain Treville here that you have been tormenting one of my musketeers, what have to say to that?"

Buckingham looked up at the royal and said nothing.

" THE KING HAS ASKED YOU A QUESTION! demanded the Cardinal, his face turning red.

Buckingham didn't move his head, just his eyes glared at the Cardinal.

" I have not done anything wrong your majesty...I just fell in love...what is wrong with that?" he murmered.

Porthos and Aramis exchanged glances with one another.

The King was now standing over him as he stood on the raised throne platform.

" And may I ask who this person you talk of is?" asked Louis.

Buckingham raised his head and looked at the king with a grin.

" Athos...he is one of the musketeers...I am in love with him Sire".

The King glared at him, then at Treville who's face had instantly paled.

Porthos had clenched his fist, he felt anger burning inside of him. He wanted to grab the bastard and throttle him where he stood.

Aramis felt sick as he glanced at d'Artagnan, both men wore similar grim looks on their faces.

" I see" said Louis " And does he love you back".

Buckingham started to laugh aloud." He will as time goes on...I promise you all that".

Aramis looked at him in awe, then back to Treville. The older man shook his head in confusion.

That moment the king beckoned Treville and the Cardinal over out of earshot.

The three men whispered among each other.

" I can't believe this is happening" murmered d'Artagnan to Porthos and Aramis.

" You can't...I wanna kill the bastard" answered Porthos

" The man is not of sound mind, it's like an obsession" added the medic.

The three men returned to the front of the chamber. Treville took his place next to his men.

The king walked forward towards the duke and stared at him once again.

Buckingham glared at him, his eyes empty of any emotion. The king could see the man was mad just by looking at him.

" We have had a discussion Buckingham. You are to be sent back to England on the next available ship. Your own king will decide what is to become of you, I will have word sent ahead. I must stress to you that you will not be allowed on French soil ever again...Do I make myself clear man?"

Buckingham smirked..." But I need to see Athos... I love him... I have to see him".

Treville stood forward his face full of dispair, as he grabbed Buckingham by the shoulder and turned him around to face him.

" Listen to me you mad man...Athos is NOT! interested in you... He cannot not stand to look at you... you have made his life a misery since you set eyes on him...JUST LEAVE HIM BE!...Why can you not get that into your dence head". Treville seethed through clenched teeth.

"GUARDS! roared the Cardinal...The doors swung open suddenly. Two red guard approached and bowed.

" GET HIM OUT OF HERE...Take him to a cell and this time make sure he is well guarded...He will stay there whilst arrangements are made for his departure. demanded the king.

He glanced at Treville and his men, " I want him taken to La Harve to board a gallion. I am sure you can spare some men for the task Captain". he said.

Treville bowed, " I will see to it at haste Sire". he answered.

The king waved his hands to dismiss the men. The musketeers bowed, turned on their heels and left the chamber.

Chapter 65

Treville and his men walked down the passage from the kings chambers. Their blue cloaks trailing behind them as they walked at a fast pace.

" The bastard is insane Captain, I have never heard such nonsense come from one mans lips". said d'Artagnan glancing at his brothers.

" His mind has gone, thats for certain. He is completly mad. Obsessed with poor Athos". added Aramis.

" I dont know 'ow I kept self control...I just wanted to punch 'im" growled Porthos.

Treville walked ahead of the three men as he spoke, " I have heard that his brother is the same, it must run in the family. I need to send a letter to King Charles."

" Who will escourt him to LaHarve Sir?" asked Porthos

Treville stopped in his tracks and looked at the three men. " You boys are too close to Athos for it to be any of you. I will send Marcel, Lucca, and Andre they are good men, I want you three to keep an eye on Athos. He is by no means ready for duty yet".

The three men exchanged glances with one another as he spoke and nodded in agreement.

Porthos and d'Artagnan, I want you to carry on with your duties as usual, Aramis you can have duties at the garrison, I dont want Athos thinking he is being watched all the time. After what you told me about the nightmares, I think he is going to need someone around at all times until he can talk about what occured, so it needs to be in a discreet manner".

Aramis nodded as he glanced at the others. " Lets hope its soon rather than later".

Porthos clapped his friend on the back and the men carried on walking out of the palace.

Chapter 66

Athos was sat at their usual table in the courtyard when the musketeers arrived back at the garrison. Constance sat opposite him as they both ate lunch. Serge was filling up the ale jug as they approached the table.

" Just in time boys" grinned Serge, " tuck in Iv'e made Athos' favourite chicken broth".

Athos who was spooning down his broth, glanced up as his brothers joined them. Aramis sat next to him and patted him on the back with a smile.

" Glad to see you getting your appitite back my friend" he said as he spooned broth into a bowl.

" Yeah, leave some for me Thos" grinned Porthos winking at Serge.

" Makes a change you saying that" laughed d'Artagnan, " Its usually you who eats the lot".

Treville had carried on up the steps to his office, Athos hadn't faild to notice as he glanced up at the balcony.

" And how are you this fine day dear Constance" asked d'Aratagnan pouring out ale into a tankard.

The young woman smiled, " I am so glad to see Athos up and about. He looks alot better, I take it you men are taking good care of him".

Porthos gripped the nape of Athos' neck and smiled as he ruffled the swordmans hair.

" Of course we are taking good care of him, we wouldn't 'ave it any other way would we boys?" he growled.

Aramis poured more ale into Athos' tankard as he concured with the big man. " You deserve that my friend".he smiled.

Athos nodded his thanks to the medic. " Nice of you to let me have a drink my friend" he smiled.

Aramis looked at him, " As long as you drink sensibly mon ami I do not mind". he replied.

"So I can have some wine later then?" grinned the swordsman.

Aramis nudged his shoulder into his friend as he sat next to him. " Don't push it". he answered trying to hold in his chuckle.

The others laughed aloud as they watched Athos grimmace.

"Anyway I can't sit here all day" said Constance, " I have to get back to my sewing. " I will leave you boys in peace."

"Does that mean you are not going to eat that bread and cheese you've left" asked Porthos.

Constance shook her head in awe at the big man. " You really are a pig" she answered giving him a slap on the arm. " Help yourself...you will anyway".

" I will escourt you home Constance" said d'Aratagnan standing from the table. " You never know who lurks out there".

Constance glanced up at the Gascon, " Very well, if you insist" she replied. " But I can look after myself you know".

d'Artagnan frowned, " Of course you can madam, I merly want to keep you company".

Porthos rolled his eyes and grinned, " Well go then if your going boy" he said.

Aramis smiled as they both walked away, " He loves her, anyone can see that my friend.

Porthos nodded with a snort and ate the cheese.

Athos and Aramis looked at him and smiled. " Constance is right my friend you have the appitite of a wild boar." said Aramis.

The big man carried on eating.

"Where is Buckinham now" asked Athos as he toyed with his spoon on the table top.

Porthos suddenly stopped eating as he heard the question coming from his friend. Both him and Aramis glanced at one another. Athos hadn't mentioned his name since he had been rescued from the Chateau.

Aramis looked at the swordsman then back at Porthos before answering.

" He has been taken to the Palace cells, then he will be taken back to LaHarve where he will board a ship back to England." That was the kings orders mon ami.

Athos slowly nodded his head as Aramis spoke. " Who is escourting him back to LaHarve?" he asked.

"Treville wants Marcel, Lucca and Andre to take him" replied Porthos " He wouldn't bloody make it to LaHarve if I had my way, I would like to strangle the bastard".

Athos picked up his tankard and drank back some ale. " I see". he murmered.

"Why didn't the Captain ask any of you?"

" Because we are here to take care of you my friend" replied Aramis ruffling the swordmans hair.

Athos looked from one man to the other. " You have your lives to be getting on with my friends, I do not expect you to be here all the time tending to me". he said. " Besides I am getting better now, I just wish I could spar with the others".

" Now listen to me mon ami" reponded Aramis. " Your ribs are still recovering and so is your arm, and I will say when you can spar again".

"Aramis is right Thos, you still need to recover, and we are here to help you with that" added Porthos as he cut some cheese in half and bit into it.

Athos was about to speak but Aramis held up his hand to object.."but..." No buts my friend we are here for you".

Athos looked from one man to the other,he knew it was pointless arguing with them once their minds where made up.

Chapter 67

Three days later...

LaHarve was its usually busy port. Two gallions where moored side by side. men yelled to one another as crates where carried aboard from different merchants.

Children ran up and down the gang planks as they played chase with each other laughing. " I wont tell you bloody brats again" roared one of the crew. "Now piss off". The children ran off giggling.

Marcel, Lucca and Andre came to a halt. Marcel dismounted and helped Buckingham down from his mount, his hands tied in front of him.

Lucca and Andre joined him. " This is where we say good riddence Buckingham" seethed Marcel as he glanced at his comrades.

Buckingham glared into his face, " Do not fret my man, I will be back again". he said.

" You have been ordered to stay off French soil Buckingham, If you return the king will have you hanged". replied Lucca pushing him towards the ship.

Andre had walked up to one of the crew members and gave him a letter. The man opened it and read. He glanced over to Buckingham and grinned, he walked towards the man and eyed him.

" So we have royal blood aboard do we" he smirked. " I am Captain Sionn, this is my ship, I am most certain my crew will make you feel comfortable" Sionn suddenly called over to two of his men, they came running at haste.

" Yes Sir?" they panted out in unison.

"Take our guest passanger down below and make sure he stays down there till we reach Dover". ordered the Captain. " We have been instructed by His Majesty the King to make certain he is personally handed over to King Charles guards."

"Yes Sir" replied the men.

Buckingham was grabbed by the men and marched up the gang plank watched by the three musketeers. He suddenly turned his head and smiled over to the three men as they stood on the quey.

" Give Athos my regards" he yelled. " Tell him I will never forget him...I will return for him".

" The man has gone completly insane" murmered Andre. " What is this obsession with Athos?"

Marcel glanced at him, he knew Andre hadn't been told the whole story. But he did't want to lie to a fellow comrade.

" He has got it into his head that he is in love with Athos, that is all I know my friend". he answered.

Andre slowly turned his head and frowned, " ATHOS! but I didn't know he was..." lets leave it at that" said Lucca glancing at Marcel. "Anyway its none of our buisness".

They continued watching as Buckingham disappeared from sight below deck.

"Come" said Marcel" The horses need some rest, we shall take some refreshment before we return to Paris". The three men turned their mounts and walked the beasts towards the town.

Chapter 68

Treville was on the balcony at the garrison when the three men returned, he looked up as he heard the horses hooves clatter into the courtyard. They where met by the stable boys as they dismounted and handed over the reins.

Treville beckoned them over as he returned to his office, the three men walked up the steps and into Trevilles office.

"Close the door" ordered the captain as he sat in his chair. He jestured for the men to sit, as he poured them each a drink of wine.

"Well...any problems"? he asked. " Tell me you actually seen him board the ship"?

Marcel nodded, " Yes Sir we watched him taken below by two crew members, the captain made sure they knew who he was."

" He is to be handed over to king Charles guard when they reach Dover" added Lucca as he took a swig of wine.

That moment a knock was heard at the door making the men look towards it.

" Its open" yelled Treville knowing full well who was about to enter. Porthos and Aramis entered.

" So we are finally rid of the bastard hey" growled Porthos eyeing his fellow musketeers with a grin.

" Yes, we watched him taken aboard and down below" replied Marcel.

Aramis clapped Marcel on the shoulder " Good man" he said with a smile.

Treville glanced up as Marcel spoke, " Go and get some rest men" he said " you have all done a good job"

They walked towards the door in single file. Andre suddenly stopping in his tracks, he turned to Treville.

" Oh Buckingham said something Captain...he was cut off by Lucca, " Not now Andre, come" Treville held up a hand in protest.

Treville stared at the young man, " WHAT! what did he say Andre? Andre was sorry he opened his mouth as everyone in the room glared at him.

" He ere.. he said to tell Athos he will return for him, and sends his regards". the room fell silent for what seemed like an age.

Aramis and Porthos exchanged glances of anger. " He wont be coming back here, not unless he wants to hang" seethed Aramis through clenched teeth.

"I was not aware that he and Athos where...Andre didn't finish the sentence as Porthos grabbed him and pushed him against the wall.

" HE AND ATHOS WHAT!" he growled into the mans face. " Nothing is going on between that BASTARD and Athos do I make myself clear?"

"PORTHOS! ENOUGH! roared Treville standing suddenly. He looked at Andre in the face. " Listen to me son, " Buckingham has put Athos through alot of mental pain, the man is not of sound mind, he has got it into his head that...Treville eyed Aramis and Porthos before continuing..." that he and Athos are lovers...nothing of the sought is going on. That is the truth son. The man is mad".

Aramis grabbed the big man as he held Andre tightly, the young man had paled.

" PORTHOS! leave it, Now let him go". Porthos glared at Andre for seconds before releasing him with a growl. " Get him out of my sight.

Marcel and Lucca grabbed the younger man by his arms and marched towards the door.

Treville yelled as they went, " Andre...remember if I hear one remark from you or any of the men..you will be sorry you where born. Do I make myself clear".

Andre nodded his head towards Treville, " Yes Sir, of course I didn't mean to distress anyone".

Treville sat back in his chair, " Your dismissed, now go and get some rest".

" You just had to open that mouth of your...didn't you" They heard Marcel say as they walked across the balcony.

Porthos still had his face set in a scowl, Aramis had seen that look many a time when they had been on different missions throughout time. Aramis squeezed the big mans shoulder. He didn't need to say anything that was enough.

Chapter 69

One week later...

Athos had been put on light duties, his ribs were still recovering. Aramis had given him permission to supervise the sparring, but had told him he couldn't yet brandish a sword himself without risking the recovery of his broken ribs. Even though the others had gone back on duty at the palace, Aramis had told Athos that he would know if he had gone against his orders because he had his own spies out making sure he obeyed him. That of course had made the others laugh out loud, making the swordsman scowl.

/

Athos watched as the recuits sparred with one another, he shouted out different manouvers to each man as they danced around each other with their swords. Athos grinned to himself as he heard Aramis' words of authority echoing in his ears. He almost felt like one of the recruits may be watching him and making sure he followed Aramis' orders. He suddenly heard the sound of horses hooves as his three brothers entered the courtyard.

" Thats it men, we will continue on the morrow". said the swordsman.

The recuits nodded their appreciation and dispersed, picking up their weapons as they went.

The stable boys had taken the three horses and walked them to the troughs as Athos approached his friends.

TBC