A Diamond So Dark
Occurances after Mercy's Sacrifice and the Sequel
Disclaimer: We do not own anything affiliated with Gundam Wing or its creations. Angela does own the plot and in helping, I revised and wrote the story. A joint creation. Any original characters along with Blacke Diamond sprung from either her or my own minds.
~^~ Chapter 1 ~^~
Taking his regular seat in the back corner of the room, the silent youth turned his eyes from the immature and childish teenagers that entered, casting his gaze to the window. Well, this was different from the war, but it gave them time to rest from the brutal demands of fighting and the opposing soldiers. Taking on so much as a growing teenage boy and only having four other friends to help you when resisting hundreds of others really wore you down. The others had finally changed Heero's mind and he'd grown surprisingly bored at the safe house, needing to escape it and move about. Even he grew restless and his discipline failed to keep him still. High school couldn't be that bad, he could easily hide within the large masses of teenagers swarming about.
Sighing deeply and continuing to gaze out the window with longing, Prussian eyes, the youth's head snapped about quickly and his eyes turned piercing for a second more.
"When don't you sit and sulk?" Duo teased, walking up the isle with Quatre behind him, eyes set on the stoic boy.
Biting his tongue and sending the boy a warning glare, Heero only turned to his books and pulled out his notebook, letting his pencil sketch over the paper. He never had much time, nor did he take pride in it, but he wasn't that bad at sketching. It's not something that he enjoyed all the time though. The sketch was only something for him to do instead of getting the American youth back for his comment. "Why? You're happy enough for all of us, someone has to balance the emotions out."
"Heero, you've got to lighten up a little more. This is a resting period, a time for relaxation and trying to enjoy the life we're missing. You must try and enjoy it more, please?" Quatre walked up, blushing slightly at the girlish chatter behind his back as they made silly comments on the new boys.
Turning his eyes upwards and smirking, Heero caught the rosy tint in his friend's cheeks. "I'll try harder Quatre, but you've still got to learn to control your emotions more or do you enjoy being this embarrassed?" His tone was actually slightly teasing, but only to those who had a keen ear. Otherwise, it'd sound as if he were his normal self. Looking back down at the soft pencil marks and the faint outline of his gundam, he continued to darken the outline and add a few of the more visible details.
Biting his lower lip and walking to the window, the young Arabian only took in a deep breath to try and settle his emotions. Heero was right, and that comment his friend made only helped in his blush deepening. The gentle youth was a little careless in controlling his emotions and wasn't as strong in that area, but he wasn't weak either. It seems the others learned that for certain, as well as himself, only a few months before.
"Hey, you okay buddy?" Duo piped up, concern evident. Everyone still felt protective of Quatre, maybe sometimes overly, but they definitely knew now that he was capable of fending for himself. And they tried not to get too protective, to let him battle on his own so to say, but when he needed help they were right there for him.
"I'm fine Duo..." Giving a soft laugh, the teenager turned back to find Heero still working on his notepad and a familiar outline appearing. "You still worry too much Duo."
"Sorry, I'll try..."
"It's okay..." Assuring him with a gentle smile, Quatre peered cautiously over Heero's shoulder. He was finishing the faint shadows and random details of Wing Zero, a very accurate and good sketch. He didn't even know that the pilot could draw. "That's extremely good Heero, even for just a quick sketch."
"Humph..." Giving a soft snort of acknowledgement, the youth continued in darkening the outline, most of the details were only defined by the shadows. The sun seemed to cascade down from somewhere in the front, top, left corner of the paper, the same general direction the gundam was facing.
"And I suppose you do things like the Mona Lisa too?" Duo added, smirking in liking.
"No, I don't draw well enough and this is only something to keep me occupied so that I can easily ignore your chattering. You're worse than those girls by the door..." Placing his pencil on the desk, Heero sunk down in his chair, using the chair in front of him to put his feet up on as his eyes closed listlessly. In truth, he didn't want to be there, but he didn't want to be back at the safe house either. Not even the war, but he wanted to be somewhere else, outside, away from the cinderblock walls and feeling of imprisonment. One of the feelings he dreaded most, or rather loathed. Wincing at the sudden stab in his upper waist, the youth only moved into a more comfortable position. The gunshot wound from Une still bothered him slightly, but why when the others never did, he didn't know.
"And I'm Queen Cleopatra of the Nile. You're the next prodigy child, a regular Mozart!" Duo took the notebook in hand, sitting on the desk next to his friend's and smirking. "Do you do requests?"
"No, and you're confusing yourself again Duo." Heero opened his eyes and sneered, looking at his "hurt" features and almost having the urge to laugh. Almost.
"What do ya mean?"
Speaking softly and leaning against the wall as more students entered, Quatre cleared things up. "I think you've got the "No" part. Duo, Mozart was a classical composer, he wrote music and was famous for it. Like Beethoven, Schubert, and Brahms. They created art, yes, but a different type. They made music, the masterpieces of sound painted on silence. Yet, you may have been thinking of one like Leonardo DeVinci. He was a great painter and inventor, of France I believe. Or it may have been England, I can't think right now. He was the one that painted the Mona Lisa." Crossing his arms before his chest, Quatre watched Duo's stunned expression.
"I only understood about the first few words of that, maybe I should just look it up..." Turning and laughing, he climbed over the seat and looked back at Heero. "Hey, you mind?"
"Not at all..." was his clever and causal response. He knew what Duo spoke of.
"Come on man, not now!! I don't want to be serving any detentions today, I have a bad feeling this is going to be a bad day anyway... please?" Whining, Duo watched for the teacher as Quatre took his seat next to Heero, the desk Duo was using for a chair.
Snorting softly and putting his feet on the floor, the Japanese pilot straightened in his chair and took his notebook back, turning back to a previous page and working on the figure. It was a lone wolf sitting in the moonlight, her lean but strong form looking silently over the still and tranquil surface of the water. It was Keiha, she was a real sweet-heart, or so the others said, but she had a need to return to the wild and he had to return to the war. Well, he could actually say he had a "mother" now, but it was on a bit of a-different subject. She'd saved his life, and taken the time to care, even animals did, living life simply.
Quatre watched as Mr. Davall entered the room, opening his book and taking out his pen and notes, ready for the day. He enjoyed being able to go to school, be who he was and not being treated any differently, and not having to fight most of all. He'd had his fill of fighting already, and he was only bound to get more. Yet Duo's words struck him somehow. He said he had a feeling that it was going to be a bad day, and so did the young Arabian. But how bad? And for who? Now he knew he was going to be paranoid all day.
~-~
Standing from his seat at the counter, Trowa looked over his shoulder to find that Wufei was just waking up. "Are you okay?"
Yawning, Wufei was beginning to wonder himself. He'd slept in, and rather late at that. Then again, he didn't get a lot of sleep, something was plaguing his mind, but he wasn't for sure what it was. "I'm not sure. I just didn't get a lot of sleep, there's no need to worry baka..."
Eyeing the Chinese youth a moment longer, Trowa only returned to his seat and began to click away at the keyboard again. Heero had suspicions before he left to live and go to school in the dorms. The Japanese pilot had heard of a new organization, they called themselves BD, but what it stood for, he wasn't sure. The two young men kept it between themselves, not bothering to involve the others just yet. "Well, that isn't normally like you. Something bothering you?"
Wufei cast his gaze out the window at the late morning sun, suspicious of everything yet he remained calm. "I'm not sure what it is."
Nodding, Trowa felt something nagging at him as well yet couldn't place the feeling. Maybe it was that he should be out fighting to end the war and instead he was lounging around the safe house and trying to bring up information on an unknown group. "Try not to think about it too much, it'll come to you." Taking his fingers from the keys and flexing them, he decided that maybe he'd just hack into OZ's data base and see if he couldn't find something there. If he had to, he'd go to Sally and see if he couldn't get anything from her.
~-~
Sighing, Quatre took his gym uniform out of his locker and closed the metal door, a weariness in his once lively eyes. He didn't care much for this gym class, it was fun and he would enjoy it, but there were only a few people that he didn't care for that ruined everything. They were a couple of smart-alecky, immature, reckless jocks. They were the ones that gave athletes the bad name and stereotype. And even more, he'd be able to show them up today and then they'd just have more of a reason to gripe about and tease him with. Quatre didn't strike back nor retort only to remain mature and to get away from the boys faster, he had better things to do with his time.
"Well, isn't it lil' kitty-cat...." Sneering, Dæmon walked into the locker room, his eyes catching his prey, the platinum blonde.
"Girls locker room is that way..." Pointing over his shoulder, Zander smirked at the weaker-looking youth.
"Then you'd better hurry or you might just be late." With a casual air, he only continued in changing, taking off his uniform shirt.
"Ooh, he finally speaks. Too bad you're as weak as you look and I could slaughter you with one hand," Dæmon retorted.
"He can be taught, he actually used a big word. Do you even understand what it means?" Quatre shot back smoothly. Pulling the shirt over his head and straightening it out, the youth sent a mischievous smile to his friends who were listening and watching.
Turning him about quickly and throwing him into the lockers behind the youth, Zander watched his slightly startled eyes with a sneer. Dæmon only popped his knuckles menacingly. "You really don't want to mess with us you spoiled brat, or we might just end up hurting you severely."
Heero felt a hand on his arm, the warning in Quatre's gaze telling him to stand down. Duo knew his protective nature and at times, yes, he did have to remind Heero that Quatre could easily protect himself and if he needed help, they'd intervene. Silently, the Japanese youth slid his shirt over his head, taking a seat on the benches and watching his merciful friend out of the corner of his eye, not moving but to put his shoes on.
Duo smirked, Quatre was being corrupted as well. He was doing his job. The intelligent youth could be just as cocky and witty as Duo, even better at times. Hey, at least Duo had some good comebacks now that his "battle" with Une was over. He hadn't won, not by wit on his own. Yet, they'd won in the end when Lady couldn't break their spirits in full.
"I don't have time for this Zander, I've got better things to do than baby- sit." Feeling his peer's arm rammed further in his shoulders and throat, he only sighed and forced himself not to wince. The sharper part of the locker handle was jabbing roughly into his back. In one swift motion, the young aristocrat brought hands up, pulling Zander's arms in surprise from his chest and giving him a slight shove so that he was away from his face. Quatre didn't expect the young man to be clumsy enough to lose his balance, tripping backwards over the benches and falling to the wooden floor. Laughing softly, he caught the hint of amusement and surprise in Heero's eyes, Duo's was very readable in his features. "Now be nice little boys and go play, I don't have time for you."
Dæmon looked at Zander who seemed like he was ready to cry. Turning his eyes back to the young Winner with anger, he knew this kid was going to pay. "You really do have a death wish, don't you kid?" Sneering, he brought back his fist and threw it with all his strength at Quatre. When his hand stopped a few inches from the boy's face, he was surprised to turn and see that the other kid next to him had stopped his punch.
Gripping the boy's fist in his hand, Heero wasn't even trying or using any strength to restrain him. Watching his surprise, he twisted Dæmon's arm and brought it behind his back at a sharp and painful angle. Standing behind the whimpering youth, he spoke with a soft but deadly and cold voice. "I suggest," he hissed, "that you leave my friends alone or I will personally break both of your arms, then your legs, and finally cut out your tongue to be rid of your insolent complaints. Got it?" With the last words, Heero jerked the boy's arm upwards. Smirking at his pathetic form as he nodded, the youth only held him there and tightened his grip immensely around the boy's wrist. "What should we do with him? Any thoughts Quatre? Duo?"
"Well, we could always..." Duo teased, listening to the laughter of the other boys in the locker room.
Cutting in, Quatre replied with a soft chuckle but a sympathetic smile. "Go ahead and let him go Heero. Don't hurt him too much. The game's over, come on." Persuading his somewhat reluctant friend, he watched Heero release the boy. Giving a small nod of thanks and sighing deeply, Quatre knew that his day wasn't going too bad, but it wasn't going the best either. Maybe his feeling was wrong.
Heero turned from the boy, taking a seat and tying his shoe as he finished, waiting patiently for their instructor to get them when things were ready for the day of class. He would have felt better if he could have at least broken one of the boy's arms. Just to teach him fear and his place. Yet, this was stopped by Quatre's mercy and he only obliged with the youth's request.
"So, what are we doin' today?" Duo broke the silence within the three, there wasn't a second of silence as the rest of the teenage boy's continued to comment and tease both Zander and Dæmon on the recent events.
"I believe it's fencing." Rolling his shoulders and wincing slightly at the pain in his back, the gentle youth watched Duo's face light up.
"Cool, but I'm sorry I won't even come close to being matched with you Heero. I don't want to die if you get carried away, we'll save that for a more-reasonable time." Catching his glare, the spunky youth could only grin devilishly.
"Maybe I'll just take Dæmon up on his offer." Sneering at seeing the older boy's shocked and somewhat hesitant gaze, Heero only shot him a cold glare and grinned.
"This is only a lesson, we're not going for blood Heero..." chiding teasingly, Quatre couldn't help but laugh softly.
"Maybe not, but maybe we are...." he added softly.
"Heero, we're not trying to revert him back to a terrified, childish state..."
"Speak for yourself," the youth retorted, only joking with Quatre, or the best he came to joking right now, but he wouldn't mind taking on the boy and humiliating him further.
"Hey, sounds like fun to me..." Duo chimed in.
"Now you guys, please tell me you'll..." Quatre began but was cut off.
Mr. Komoro walked into the locker room, gazing about and breaking into all the conversations. "Okay, get up and get out there. The longer you take, the longer we're going to be here. Even if I have to keep you here all night. Come on boys, let's show some hustle!"
Standing and watching the others, Quatre gave a faint smile and jogged from the room. "You guys are lucky."
~-~
Calming his breathing and keeping his eye on Heero, Quatre thrust and tried to pry the fencing sword from his hands. Heero held on fast and his movements were quick and accurate. Blocking a blow, Quatre was beginning to wonder how much longer this was going to go on. They'd each taken a partner, Duo working with some new girl that didn't have a clue as to what she was doing, and he with Heero. They both thought it safer. Then they were picked to demonstrate, Mr. Komoro seemed interested with their small "battle". About now, they'd have to have been at it for at least five minutes, give or take a few. The other students had retreated back to the walls, for Heero and his fight ranged in the entire area, not just a small compact something that was supposed to be called a fighting area. One of them would slip up soon, they had to end this.
Heero watched as Quatre quickly jumped back from his attack, not having time to counter it with one of his own. Maybe things would grow interesting, to see who won this match. All the other students were amazed by the looks on their faces, even Duo slightly. Yet Quatre was good, especially at fencing, and he was giving Heero more of a "run for his money" so to say. "You're moves are growing sloppy Quatre..." Calling out with a smirk, Heero quickly switched the hand with which he held the sparring weapon, yet not quick enough.
Seizing his opportunity, Quatre thrust out and knocked the sword from the air just off behind them and to his side, watching it stab into the mat that they were using but the battlefield had grown from that. Smirking, he caught Heero's movements as they stopped suddenly. "Set, match. It's over." Breathing somewhat heavily as he smiled, he curiously watched Heero.
"I'm not ready to give up yet..." With a hint of amusement in his eyes, Heero sprung backward from the end of the fencing sword and straight into a double back flip. Misjudging the last of his landings and falling to his back, he only looked up to find Quatre with both swords, the tip of his against his chest as applauds erupted from around the wall space.
"Are you ready now?" Laughing softly and calming his breathing, he knew that if Heero had gotten to his fencing sword that he'd be done. Yet fate had turned in his favor.
"That was a simple mistake."
"That could cost you your life..." Offering his hand and helping the somber boy up, he noticed the glimmers of approval and amusement in his Prussian eyes. "It was luck, if you got this.." tossing him his sword, Quatre and his comrade walked back to the completely stunned professor, "I'd have lost, easily."
"Where did the both of you learn to fight like that?!" Mr. Komoro was about in shock. He didn't expect anything like that from his students.
"I had a tutor as a child..." replied the young aristocrat without hesitation or second thought.
"Natural," was Heero's reply, getting a very queer look from his instructor. What wasn't natural about fighting like that? He grew up different from other children, his play toys were grenades, guns, and other various weapons. That was, when he wasn't completing a mission or hacking into data bases.
"That was a superior match young men!" Gleaming in enjoyment and pride, Mr. Komoro walked behind his students, placing a hand on each of their shoulders but frowning when Heero shrugged it off. "Well, it seems you're further along then the rest of the students and it'd be pointless to put the both of you through that again. You may practice over on the stage or if you have other class work, you can work on that. Just till the others are caught up."
"Thank you instructor." Quatre looked over at his friend, then back to the doors that led out of the gym. He wouldn't mind getting his assignments done quickly and out of the way. "Are we allowed back in the locker rooms for our class work sir?"
Nodding and calling the rest of the astonished class to attention, he disregarded the two boys as they left the gym.
Glancing over at Heero, Quatre felt an uneasiness coming from the boy but debated whether or not to ask him about it. Heero didn't really open up to people, he never did nor cared to. Yet, he seemed to be debating the same, whether or not to talk about it.
"Just say it already Quatre..." calling over his shoulder as he pulled his locker open, Heero spoke bluntly.
Sighing, he smiled. "You just seem a bit uneasy. I don't mean to pry, but you know it helps to talk about some things." Receiving a soft snort of acknowledgement, the young Arabian only grabbed his books from his locker and decided that Heero didn't want to talk.
"Something is going to happen."
Turning about as he was prepared to head for the door, Quatre watched the boy. Maybe he'd heard something, but Heero didn't appear to have said anything or wanted to either. "Excuse me?"
"Something is going to happen and right now is not the best of times or places to speak of it...." Taking a couple of his books and his notebook, holding the pen in his other hand, Heero wasn't even sure why he was going to take his books with him and work on anything. Actually, he didn't plan to. More of an excuse to look like he was working so he could figure things out.
"Do you want to talk about it later?"
"Maybe." Taking his things and crossing to the boy's side, Heero waited for him silently. Normally he wouldn't have cared, but he was still very protective.
"All right.." Smiling and shutting his locker, Quatre grabbed his things and headed back to the gymnasium with Heero silently walking at his side. Once in, he had to trot and weave between the moving and dueling pairs, forgetting the steps of the stage completely and jumping up the height. Landing was the part he got wrong, coming down on his ankle wrong and sending a wave up pain up his leg. Wincing and taking a seat quickly, the youth looked up to find Heero setting his things down and walking over, worry mingling in his eyes as well as confusion. "I'm fine, just clumsy..."
A soft sigh was all that escaped his lips, the youth offering his friend a hand and helping him up, noticing that he didn't put weight on the once injured leg. "It's still bothering you."
"It will for a while, it wasn't just a scratch or a sprain Heero..." Giving a half-hearted laugh, the young man bent to take up his books and took a seat in the back corner of the stage. It'd be quieter and he wanted to be away from the prying eyes of his peers.
"Are you sure you're fine?"
"I am, you don't have to worry so much..." A small grin graced his lips, the youth walking normally in showing his friend that he was fine but it was still sore. What was bothering Heero so much? Yet another thing that was going to plague his mind all day. That, and why Heero was being so protective now. He was protective somewhat when they first met, after the incident with the lake and the entire of the capture and everything, he was even more protective, but not this much. Like he was expecting something or knew something that he wasn't telling. Closing his eyes and calming himself, he tried to search Heero for any answers, yet all he found was the same coldness as before with only a slight warmth toward his friends. But one other thing surprised him, there was another emotion and it seemed to dominate the others. Confusion and puzzlement. After a moment's hesitation, the youth opened his eyes and looked at his books, Heero sitting further down the stage, along the back of the wall as well. He didn't seem to have noticed.
Heero looked at the letters, the ones he'd seen and was trying so hard to figure out. They had to deal with the new organization he'd caught wind of, they were rumored to be worse than OZ and were going to strike their claim in the war soon, hopefully beating out everyone and by the looks of it, OZ and the Alliance would be too preoccupied to put up much of a fight.
They spelt something, but it was almost like a foreign language. One he either didn't understand or remember.
CLABEK DAONDIM
None of it looked familiar, but the spelling came close in another language. He wasn't sure which one but it meant: giant waters. But that couldn't be right, could it? Did the large bodies of water have anything to do with it? Releasing a soft growl, he only grew frustrated and continued to stare at the words. What was wrong with him?! What happened to his training?! This should be easy!
Duo watched his friends, something was bugging Heero and Quatre was caught up in his school assignments. That was obvious and expected from the genius boy. But something was wrong with Heero, something that wasn't normal. He wasn't focused, but it was like something was eating at him. Turning his attention back to his dueling partner, Duo was certain he should have chosen someone else. Someone who knew what they were doing. "Whoa! We're not trying to kill each other here..." Jumping back from the girl's clumsy swing, he knew that her skills in battle wouldn't matter. She was so clumsy, she was actually deadly with a weapon. The young American just didn't want to die yet!
Growing frustrated and bashful, the young transfer student threw her fencing sword to the ground, crossing her arms before her. "I hate this! I can't do this and I don't want to!"
Wow, talk about PMSing... this girl had problems and she was probably one of those snobby, popular kids who got what they wanted. He liked being popular and stuff, but her wimpy actions helped in giving popular kids bad names too. She didn't look it at first, but she was getting to be more and more of a pain. Picking up her fencing sword and holding it out, he offered it to her and tried to be nice. "Hey, it's okay. It's hard to get sometimes. I can help you out and... whoa! Take it easy girl!"
Swiping the weapon away and throwing it to the ground, she only glared at her dueling partner. "I don't care. This is all stupid! We don't need it in life and I won't ever use it! Why do I even have to learn this?! It's useless!"
Well, he knew that she was a pampered brat and had never fought before. It came in handy for him and the others. That was an up. Oh boy did it come in handy... "Look, I'll try and teach you."
"What's wrong here?" Mr. Komoro walked up to the two, the only ones who weren't practicing.
"This is all stupid and useless. I don't want to do this!" Glaring at her teacher, she refused to pick up the weapon again.
Groaning, Duo took a seat. "I've offered to try and teach her. She doesn't want the help. And to answer your earlier question, in my opinion, it comes in very handy Natasha."
"How?!" Turning and glowering at the boy, she watched his frown deepen.
"Well we all have to fight at one time or another. And it helps ya make quick decisions in short periods of time. Like the soldiers in battle." Oops, wrong thing to say! He was just glad that he'd said soldiers and not like deciding his actions in battle.
Nodding, Mr. Komoro listened to the two. "That's a very good interpretation Duo. It does help you to think on your feet. And to build up agility, speed, and accuracy." Looking about, he caught sight of Quatre and Heero on the stage, smiling. "You aren't allowed to give up in here Miss Howell, but I do know of someone who can teach you the basics while Duo can continue with his lessons."
Quatre's head shot up at his name sounding in the gymnasium, looking to find his instructor calling him over. Sparing Heero a quick glance and small smile when his Japanese friend looked over to him curiously, the youth quickly jumped from the stage with more accuracy and trotted over to Duo, the instructor, and Duo's partner. "Yes instructor?"
"Would you be willing to take Miss Howell off to the side and teach her the basics for fencing while the rest of the class proceeds? There will be a test over this Natasha, we don't just do things in here for "the fun of it"."
Sighing and nodding with a smile, Quatre took the fencing sword that Natasha must have held. "I can do that. Why don't we go ahead and go over here?" Watching her with patience as she walked over stubbornly to the corner, the young Winner knew that he was going to be in for a lot of fun. Only another hour and then it was lunch break! If he made it that long as well as his patience.
~-~
Sitting at the table and looking down at his food, Quatre wasn't really sure he wanted to eat now. Now he knew what Duo had to suffer, Natasha was so bad at fencing she was lethal. That was the fun part of trying to teach her. He now sported new bruises, but they were on his arms and covered by his shirt. She was also so clumsy that he was beginning to wonder how she'd managed life thus far!
Taking a seat and looking at his friend with a smirk, Duo laughed. "Have fun with Natasha little buddy?"
"Three words: I'm so sorry." Quatre picked up his sandwich, he didn't care much for the hot meals they served, they never looked like what they were supposed to be and weren't the greatest to eat either. Even if it was a private school and it was higher classed. Evidentially, the only thing that remained the same as public schools was the food.
Laughing, Duo couldn't help but smile broadly. "I think I'd rather have taken on Heero..."
"To be utterly humiliated?" Walking up behind the youth without any tray nor food, he only spoke softly with a somber look, per usual.
"Better than nearly getting killed by a girl." He retorted after nearly jumping ten feet in the air. "You've really got to stop that."
Now it was Quatre's turn to laugh, relieving some of the stress that was pent up from the unwilling girl. She'd actually worn his patience to near nothing. It had to be a first. "It took the better part of the hour, and a few bruises, but she finally learned something."
"She's weak and shouldn't fight. She'd end up getting killed or kill everyone in turn with her klutziness."
"Wow man, you don't know how much you just sounded like Wufei there."
Quatre listened to the two, not really hungry as he stood. He needed some peace and fresh air to settle his mind and confused soul. "I'm sorry you guys, but I'm not that hungry. I'll meet you outside on the grounds, I need some time to think...." Trailing off, he rose with his tray in hand.
"You okay buddy?" Inquiring in confusion, Duo watched the boy. He wasn't usually this depressed nor did he seem so forlorn.
"Just need some time alone Duo, it's nothing to worry about..." With a gentle smile, he left and dumped his tray, heading out the courtyard where a few people ate outside with cold lunches or didn't eat at all. It was nice out, not too bad but not warm either. Spring was just getting there.
Heero watched Quatre, wondering what was on his mind? Did he know something? The Japanese youth would have to find out later.
"I don't think he's okay man, has he been acting weird during class? You were paired with him in gym." At receiving a small nod, Duo began to grow slightly worried and confused himself.
Pulling his jacket over his shoulders, he'd grabbed it from his locker, Quatre took a seat at one of the deserted picnic tables. No one else was outside today. He didn't blame them, the only reason it seemed rather cold out was because of the wind. Why was Heero so troubled looking? And what was plaguing his mind so?! It was completely frustrating to feel something but not know what it is and have it stick with you. He was worried about something, but why couldn't the part of his mind that DIDN'T know figure out what the part of his mind that DID know knows!? "Urh... life is so frustrating!" Looking up at footsteps nearing him, he was about ready to greet Heero and Duo but the two people approaching him were far from his friends.
"Well looky who we've got here. It's the little girl." Dæmon sneered, knowing he wasn't in the protection of his friends anymore and vulnerable.
Rolling his eyes and standing, Quatre tried to leave and disregard their comments. He didn't want to deal with them anymore. "Look, I've got more important things to worry about that the both of you insubordinate, thick- skulled children wouldn't even begin to comprehend. In other words, I'm too busy to play, so leave me alone..." Swirling about quickly when he heard the other two persist, Quatre grew impatient and angered. "What, were those words still too big for you?!"
"You've got one heck of an attitude, but can you back it up?" Smirking, Zander neared the boy, ready this time for any of his actions.
"You both are really starting to get on my nerves." Gritting his teeth and hoping that Heero would just appear so that they'd run scared, Quatre waited and watched the door leading inside. He could easily defend himself in need be, but he didn't want to fight, not right now.
"Ooh, we're scared now..." Dæmon called sarcastically.
"Shaking with fear!" Zander added.
Standing before the youth and smirking, Dæmon watched Quatre and stepped in his way any time he tried to pass by. "Why are you trying to leave? Too scared that the other guy's not here to protect you? The party's just started..."
"I don't have time for this nor do I want to hurt the either of you now but I will if you don't get out of my way." Glaring with contempt, Quatre took a deep breath and tried to step by the two again. Still to no avail.
"Sure. Go ahead and hit me, I'll let you have the first try. The only free one you're getting. Come on..." Smirking, the older youth knew he wouldn't.
"And revert to your level of stupidity, I'm sorry, but I'm more civil than that..." His words were spoken through gritted teeth.
"Whatever, fancy words can't save your butt now...." Zander retorted.
"Just because you don't have the brain power to understand the words doesn't mean that you can easily cover up for it with false threats," the Arabian shot back. Quatre wanted to hit this kid, surprisingly. Yet, he wouldn't, he wouldn't sink to their standards nor draw attention to himself for fighting. Not unless he had to.
Dæmon only watched the stubborn youth with a sly grin. A small nod Zander's way was the only move he made. Yet then, without warning, sent a hard right punch into the blonde boy's stomach, listening to him cough and gasp as he crumbled to his knees. In sick enjoyment, Dæmon laughed coldly. "Is that a false threat little girl? I don't think so... you're just as weak as I said. You're playing with the big boys now..."
Coughing and wrapping his right arm around his abdomen, using the other to support himself, Quatre tried to fill his lungs with air again. He wasn't ready for that, he hadn't expected anything of the sort to actually happen or he could have easily dodged and sent a counterattack. Grimacing, he felt a sharp kick in his side as he was thrown on his back in the dead grass and hard ground. Bright blue eyes closing in pain, the youth coughed and tried to regain control over his breathing, or to take in a breath at least!
Zander watched, ready to take his shot at the downed youth before turning to catch a cold and familiar voice. "Run man! The others are coming!" Sprinting away, for he did fear the psycho kid who'd threatened Dæmon, he didn't hesitate to wait for his friend. He'd round the school, come in the back and head straight to class to wait, he'd be safe there.
With fearful eyes and a last sneer at the boy, Dæmon too ran from the others, there was something about that other kid that just wasn't right. He was like a serial killer in the making or something, a complete weirdo.
Heero looked out at the benches, finding Quatre laying on the ground and grimacing in pain. Without hesitation or second thought, he quickly raced to the Arabian youth's side, worry clearly etched over his features. By Duo's sharp inhale and silence, then the second set of rushing footsteps, he knew the boy had followed. "What happened Quatre? Are you okay?"
Gasping and coughing, the youth only turned on his side and wrapped his arms around his stomach protectively, bringing his knees closer to his chest. The punch he would have recovered from quickly, but that kick was hard and well aimed, along with being sharply upwards. A hand on his arm and the familiar voices told him his friends were with him, but it appeared a little too late.
"God man, what happened..." Looking about to find any cause of his injury, Duo couldn't catch anything. Not anything that could have caused this.
Opening his eyes and taking in deeper breaths, Quatre slowly pushed himself into a sitting position, very painfully and with the help of both of his friends, but he was slowly regaining his composure. Looking at the two who were awaiting his answer, Quatre only struggled to stand. He was sure that a few of his ribs were now bruised, if not fractured.
Heero held his tongue, gently helping his friend up and to a seat at the closest bench, watching him in worry. Something or rather, someone had done this to him. He was certain. Taking a seat by his side and placing a steadying hand on the youth's shoulder as he began to cough again, his features clearly showing pain, he disregarded Duo who took a seat on his other side. "Who did this to you Quatre?"
Laying his head on the cement table, he only replied softly. "It's nothing to worry about. I'm fine now, truly..." Falling into another coughing fit, he closed his eyes and listened to his friends shift uneasily.
"Come on man, tell us. You shouldn't have to go through this and they get away free of everything," the American persisted.
"I'm fine, or don't either of you trust me any longer?" The merciful boy knew that if he said anything, the others probably knew already, but someone could get hurt. Knowing them and their disregard for the teachers or "could care less" attitude about getting into trouble with the school. He didn't want that nor anyone else hurt on his behalf, even the other two jerks who'd done this to him.
Taking in a deep breath and lowering his guard, the iciness disappearing from his voice and the bitterness and indifference from his eyes. Yet he spoke softer, assuring the younger boy. "We trust you Quatre. Yet we don't want to see you hurt and they go without punishment." Frowning at his coughing, Heero knew that he was in pain still. He was learning to hide it well, but not now.
"Just please, don't worry about it or do anything. I can handle myself. I was just caught off guard, that's all..." Rising and opening his eyes, Quatre forced a small smile. "I can take care of myself."
"Lemme guess, those fags that give you a hard time in gym?" Duo piped up, standing as well.
"We need to get to class, lunch period is almost over and I have a thing for being late back and getting into more trouble than need be..." Trying to change the subject, he slowly began to walk to the school once more, dropping his arm to his side and taking in smaller, slower breaths.
Heero knew that Duo was right. Quatre couldn't throw them off at all. Yet he said nothing and returned to his friend's side, motioning for Duo to come as well. He wouldn't question the youth's actions nor his decisions, but if they touched him one more time, the Japanese pilot would punish them himself. Gladly.
Trying to get the guys to lighten up, seeing as how he hated being in a bad mood and his blonde friend was trying to change the subject, he started joking. "What? Falling in love with Miss McGuvney? You're in an awful big hurry to get back..." In a teasing tone, Duo put his clasped hands behind his head and gave a thoughtful look.
"Duo! Of course not! That's ridiculous. I just don't care much for being chided on tardiness nor detentions that you so seem to love." Smiling for real and forcing himself not to laugh at Duo's utter shock, he only entered the building with his friends at his side. "I've got to stop by my locker first guys. I'll go ahead and meet you in class..." Turning to head down the main hall, for their class was upstairs and down at the other end, the youth was surprised that his friends weren't still following by his side.
Stopping at the staircase, Heero motioned for Duo to continue back to class. "I'll watch him from here, and if you find the other two, warn them for me."
Grinning mischievously, Duo nodded. "They lay another hand on our buddy or even think about it or giving him a hard time, they die painfully. Gotcha..." Laughing softly at seeing Heero's nod of affirmation, he took the stairs two at a time and headed back to class.
In one swift motion, Quatre had the combination in the lock, the main locker open, his jacket away, and the locker closed. Turning, he found that Heero waited for him, leaning against the wall and his arms crossed before his chest. They always did worry too much about him. He'd survived so much more, a couple of punches and kicks were nothing! Child's play compared to the hell he'd suffered before. Nearing him, he smirked. "I don't need body guards, I just didn't fight back to avoid unnecessary violence."
Heero only stated bluntly as he turned to head up the stairs with his kind- hearted friend. "And it would have been rude to leave you by yourself."
Quatre couldn't help but laugh at this, yet stopped quickly and replaced his arm protectively over his ribs and stomach. "I'm flattered, truly...." Smiling as he focused and forced himself not to show his pain, he looked back over to his still worried friend.
Sighing deeply and nodding, Heero gave a faint smile in what seemed like forever. He quickly hid it though when another entered the stairwell, the two almost reaching the top. "I sent Duo back so as to get some peace and not have to listen to him complain."
Quatre wanted to laugh at this as well, but only settled for a smile. "He's finally gotten to you? I thought it would have happened sooner, how'd you manage the patience?"
Shaking his head and looking down the hallway, he watched as the students entered their classrooms. "Ignoring his stupidity."
Smirking, the young aristocrat nodded. "Easier said than done... come on, we're going to be late..." Taking the first few steps as he broke into a slow jog, Quatre couldn't do it and collapsed to his knees, wincing and hugging his midsection.
Yet again, Heero was by his side and kneeling, uncertain and worried. "We can be late to class, don't push yourself. Just say you weren't feeling well and it won't be lying..." Placing a gentle hand on his shoulder, the boy knew of the youth's disregard for lying unless need be and hating to do it just to get away with lame stunts or excuses.
Rising to his feet and swaying only slightly, the teen shook his head. "I'm fine, I wasn't thinking..."
Frowning in disapproval, he remained silent and walked by his friend's side and into the class, quickly taking his seat as Quatre did and just being on time. He didn't care, but then again, that was him...
~-~
Sitting in great discomfort as the last few minutes of class ticked nearer, the Arabian youth gazed once more at his books. He'd taken the test and was one of the first ones done, it was simple, he knew the answers, and now he was extremely bored. His book was back in the boy's dorms with his things, on his bed where he'd forgotten it. Duo somehow amused himself with doodles before laying his head down to sleep, Heero was staring at his notebook for some odd reason and seemed to become frustrated, and he was left with absolutely nothing to do. He'd take a cue from Duo and lay his head down to rest, but the desk was low and his stomach wouldn't take that. It hurt enough to sit up straight or move as it was.
Heero continued to look at the words, trying to figure out how the fit with the new organization and what they were up to.
CLABEK DAONDIM
Gritting his teeth and growing frustrated, he shut the notebook and laid his pencil down. What_was_wrong_with_him?! This was something a child could surly figure out! But what!? What did great waters have do to with anything? There were so many possibilities, yet none seemed to fit, not for what they seemed to have in mind. Maybe Trowa was further along in solving something, he had to stop getting so stressed over it. He had enough on his own with the war and trying to be the Perfect Soldier, let alone adding more to his problems.
Somewhat intrigued by the Perfect Soldier's angered and rash actions, Quatre knew that something was truly bothering him and he needed to speak to someone or ask for help.
*Rrriinnnggg*
Finally! The last bell of the day released the students from their classes, and off to roam the campus or return to their rooms for naps or whatever else they chose. That's all Quatre was going to do, go to his dorm room and lay down for a while. Standing stiffly and letting the other students pass, the youth only smirked. "Duo, wake up. Class is over for the day."
Stirring, Duo called in somewhat of a pathetic state. "Just five more minutes guys, I swear I'll get up..."
Rolling his eyes and dropping his books to his desk, or rather tossing them down, Heero watched Duo jump from his chair and look about as if he'd had a heart attack. "We aren't waiting for the rest of the night in the classroom. Get your things."
Trying to catch his breath, the outspoken teenager watched him with wide and disbelieving eyes. "What was that for?! I was awake!! Dang! You're as mean as they come! Quatre, what are you doing?! You're not supposed to side with him!" Catching the platinum blonde's smirk and soft laughter, the young man was glad he was feeling better. Then again, he was certain his heart had stopped a couple times doing that, so he quickly checked his pulse. It was racing so much that he didn't even bother to count it as one.
"You're alive, don't worry. Let's go." Picking up his books and walking down the isle, the stoic boy remained emotionless to all eyes, but to the keen eyes of his friends who could see they held hints of amusement.
"Yes, I just want to get back to the room and lie down. I'm rather tired and would welcome the rest." Taking up his books and following Heero with Duo at his side, Quatre closed his eyes for a long moment before opening them. "I might not even join you for dinner..."
"You feelin' okay buddy?" Duo glanced over, worry still lingering in his eyes.
"I am, just tired." Heading off towards the dorms where most students would go before entering the leisure rooms or wandering the grounds, he just wanted to go to bed.
After a quick flick of the light, Quatre placed his books on his desk, marking his page in his reading book and moving that as well, he laid carefully on the bed and didn't even bother with the blankets. A soft groan escaped his lips but Heero and Duo weren't in the room, Duo was caught up with one of his other friends in the hall and the antisocial boy only for a drink.
Most of the rooms housed four boys, but the three had gotten lucky and it was only them. There was one bunk bed and a single bed, three desks, three, small wardrobes, a full length mirror, and one window. It wasn't anything fancy, the floors were wooden and they did have air conditioning. Yet it worked possibly too well. Their room was always cold. Duo slept on the single, Heero on the top bunk, and Quatre on the bottom. Right now, this was working well for the youth, seeing as how it was hard to move period.
Placing his books softly on his desk, Heero sat down and opened his notebook again, trying to be as quiet as possible. Actually, it wasn't even trying, such a thing came natural to him, just like fighting, and it was easy.
"What's bothering you so much? You seemed to be troubled by whatever is in your notebook..." Looking to his side and realizing that the door was open, he knew that Duo probably wouldn't be back for a little while. Now, only to find the ambition to get up and close it for some privacy from the prying eyes of his peers.
Standing from his chair and closing the door as he watched Quatre sit up with reluctance, he only nodded. "I didn't want to involve the rest of you yet, but Trowa is the only other one who knows of this because of my ignorance in hiding it. There's something, a new organization starting. I've caught rumors that they may even be worse and crueler than OZ, probably waiting for the two other organizations to destroy each other before taking the war in their favor. And the problem is, it would also work if we were caught off guard and then we'd all be in for a lot more years of war, then more after that to finally decide what to do with the colonies." Taking up his notebook in hand and giving it to Quatre, he paced the room, uncertain of what to do or why he was having such a hard time with this.
Looking at the paper, he found two words spelt out in the middle of it, the outlines appeared to have been traced a few times in frustration. "What does it mean?"
"I'm not sure, but that's all the information I have at this time. If I can figure it out, then we can gather more. The word is foreign, it means of great waters. Yet for what they seem to want to do, it doesn't fit!" Finally growing frustrated again, he took a seat on Duo's bed and sighed deeply.
Taking in a slow breath, he stared at the words for a moment or two. They looked like a foreign language spelt in English, but it had to be something simpler. "Can I see your pencil a minute Heero?"
Curious and confused, the youth snatched it up from the table and handed it to him, leaning against the wall and looking out the window. He needed to calm down.
"Maybe we're making this too hard..." writing the letters again as he spoke, he found it easier to think about them if they were written in lower case letters.
clabeck daondim
Slowly, he rearranged the letters. It was like a puzzle, the youth putting the spaces for the letters and trying to fill them in.
B-L-E-A-C-K D-I-A-M-O-N-D
"This doesn't make sense, but then again, who knows what they were thinking. I think you might have tried too hard to find the answer Heero. It's just another puzzle." Smiling softly and handing the paper back, he caught his slightly stunned gaze.
"Bleak Diamond?" Of course!! It was so easy a child could figure it out, because a child would see that the word wasn't spelled right and the letters were just mixed up!
"At first I thought it was black, until the e was put in. I guess Black Diamond would have made more sense though..." Speaking mainly to himself, the youth took in what his friend had just said. More enemies, more work, more "fun".
"This took me three days to try and figure out, and you took two minutes?" Heero spoke with true amazement and disbelief. "Sometimes I wonder about you Quatre, and myself..."
Laughing softly, he decided it hurt and stopped. Wincing, the youth looked to his wardrobe where his more comfortable night clothes were. It was a pain to wear the uniforms.
"What's wrong?" Catching the youth's reluctance, he waited for a reply to his soft question.
"I'm debating whether or not I can find the will power to change from this dreaded uniform..." Smirking, he rose slowly and headed toward the large oak casing.
"Are you sure you're all right?"
"I'm fine, I'll just be a little reluctant to do anything rash or laugh too much too soon." Pulling off his uniform shirt and turning his back to Heero, he gently slid his regular night shirt over his head. Deep purple and blue bruises were already decorating his abdomen and just thinking about how long it was going to take for his body to heal made the pain return swiftly. He knew Heero was worried, probably much more than he was showing, but Quatre would be fine. His movements would be stiff and reluctant and he wouldn't be doing anything much, but he'd be fine after a few days.
Nodding and opening the window to let in the cool spring breezes, he let the winds caress over his body. It felt like silken hands delicately gracing over his features, coaxing him into comfort and carrying with it a sweet, crisp, wildflower scent. This was odd, considering that the grass was just growing back and the flowers weren't even budding yet. After a deep breath and a moment's hesitation as he let his eyes gaze over the gently rolling, emerald hills just off in the distance, he turned to find his friend heading once more to his bed and with a welcome look at that. "Then if you fall to sleep, we're not to wake you for dinner?"
"No please, I'm just tired and I haven't been really hungry lately anyway..." Laying down, though he let a wince slip a couple of times, the young Arabian pilot finally decided he was comfortable and he wasn't going to move. Even if a full fledged battle were to break out in his room! Within moments, he was asleep and not even bothering to cover himself in the cold room.
Later, Duo opened the door, laughing as he called down to his friend who stood at the end of the hall. "Talk to ya later man..."
"Duo, if you don't be silent..." Giving him a warning glare, Heero watched him quiet instantly and pointed over to Quatre's sleeping form.
Biting his tongue instantly, Duo was dead silent. He didn't know Quatre was asleep already. Oops! "He just fall asleep?" His words were a soft whisper.
Shaking his head, Heero once again fell into his protective nature caused by the events at the lake and with OZ's capture. "About half a hour ago." Crossing the few steps from the window to the bed, he could clearly see that his friend was cold but could care less when he was tired enough. Taking the blankets from the foot of the bed and pulling them gently, he placed them over the young man's shoulders and watched him fall deeper into their depths, seeking the blanket's offered warmth. As before, he took a seat at his desk quietly and didn't bother to look up or notice Duo's actions.
Staring at what Heero had just done for the second time that Duo had ever seen, he only stood there. It wasn't normal to see Heero opening up this much, let alone just going and pulling something like that. Yet, he was also extra protective of Quatre and it didn't seem to bother him. "Hey, you gonna come down for dinner or am I eating by myself tonight?"
"I'll be here and Quatre needs to sleep," was his blunt reply.
"Okay, well, I'm gonna go ahead and head down. I might be back right afterwards, might not. 'Less you need some help or something. I know, stupid question to ask..."
"Go."
Nodding and dropping off his books quietly, Duo left for the meal hall and left Heero to himself, Quatre to sleep.
Looking over his shoulder at the sleeping boy, Heero only shook his head and returned back to all the notes he had and information about the new organization. Somehow Bleak Diamond didn't seem right. He'd have to look it up.
Taking his laptop and turning it on, he quickly breezed past the firewalls and began to search for any information that he could find on the new organization, yet there was nothing. A soft whimper behind him caught his attention immediately, his head snapping around to find the platinum blonde wincing as he turned onto his side, obviously finally growing uncomfortable. Releasing his pent breath, Heero smirked. He decided he wasn't going to leave Quatre by himself again like that, not unless he had to. Again, he returned to his typing, rolling his stiff shoulders and trying to have patience with his constant failures in bringing up any information.
~-~
Duo entered the room, as quietly as possible when seeing that Quatre still slept and Heero was now clicking away, emotionless as always when it came to business, at his laptop. "Hey man, it's late. Are you gonna be at that all night?"
Sitting back and flexing his fingers, the young man surprisingly shook his head. "No, I'm almost done."
Casting his glance from his wardrobe as he changed to the Japanese boy, the classical one eyebrow raised in question look on his features, he sat quietly. "What's wrong with you?"
Standing and shutting the computer down, he only shot him a warning glare. "Must you be so loud?"
"Sorry, but usually I get the "leave me alone or I'll hurt you severely and don't ask me again, I'll quit when I'm done" glare. You just told me you were almost done. You didn't threaten me. Did you hurt yourself when I was gone?"
Rolling his eyes and putting his computer away, the youth climbed into his own bed and remained silent. He'd changed when the uniform had begun to get on his nerves when he was already frustrated enough. Not bothering to answer the boy's questions, Heero turned his back to him, facing the wall, and pulled the blankets to his waist. He was surprisingly tired for some odd reason. Yet, that didn't bother him as Duo finished quietly and turned out the lamp, having shut and hopefully locked the dorm room door. He didn't even bother to question as he slowly fell asleep, finally bringing the blankets up to his shoulders.
Duo climbed into bed, still plagued as to why Heero seemed so worn and why he hadn't threatened to kill him at least twice in the past four minutes! Shrugging the thoughts off, he placed his hands behind his head, clasping his fingers and gazing at the ceiling in thought before finally falling to sleep as well.
Shadows watched over the school, aware of every student as they settled down to sleep, regardless of any trouble that may lurk outside their very windows. Yet the shadows took forms, they spoke with human voices, they held human weapons of death. And now, it was only a matter of time before they'd make their move, and strike.
Authors' Notes:
Star: Okay, this ingenious story was sadly enough not of my mind. I thank thee greatly godschildamazed, another author, for helping me and coming up with this plot. This is more of a joint story and she's a true lifesaver, I thought I was going to lose interest in writing all together if I didn't get any ideas and soon!!! ~screams like it's the end of the world~ Oops, sorry 'bout that. She's sooooo cool....... ~hugs friend~ Anyway, I've got other stories started too, in help to my friend Rorie! ~hugs her~ and my Harry Potter author/friend (not J.K. Rowling, I wish!) Essence of Magic! ~hugs her too~ Okay, hope you liked this, this gets... interesting. Sorry, no mind games with my readers here, though if you like those, you might wanna read Mercy's Sacrifice! ~giggles mischievously~ This is a story after the lake/OZ incident, easier to understand if that was read first, but you don't have to. Like I said, this is Ang's plot, I mighta mixed a couple of things or changed, and I'm only writing it. But the plot was her idea... ~snacks on skittles and offers, then to Ang~ So, yeah... ^_~ Look for the next chapter, I'll be doing stories between honor's classes as a sophomore(10th grader) in high school(obviously) and band. I've also got to help for plays, in the pit orchestra, so the chapters might be a little slower. I'm trying to get them out for everyone... ~hands some skittles to Ang~ Here, you're main author, you say something! ~hands over attention to Ang~
Angela: ~mouth full of Skittles, chews then swallows~ Hi! I'm Angela, i.e. Ang. Also currently known as Stardancer's backup muse. I wish I could fully credit myself for this story and where it's headed, but I can't! Lady Stardancer is an amazing writer, and her authoring skills will make this plot into an intense and great read! As for the plot- it was influenced by God-given creativity, and might not have been if not for divine inspiration. ~_^ This is gonna be a trip, so hang on! You won't regret it! Make sure and encourage Star so she'll keep working on it! ~looks at Star with puppy eyes~ Can you pleeeease keep working on this story? Pleeeeease? Please? Oh, and can I have some more Skittles? Please?
Star: *hands more skittles and digs out a couple more bags* Don't worry, I'll keep working on it, I've got to or it'll never leave my mind! Hate that, but love this! Oh, Ang, you're not my backup muse. You're my new muse, full time, whether you like it or not! *giggles and hugs* Oh peeps, I'd like to help in giving a special shout out to Ang and good luck in college gurlie!!! *gives thumbs up and high five* Look for the next chapters peeps! Got to revise them, but that's it before I post! Hey, where are my other muses? Trowa! *looks about for him* I swear, if he took over my car again and went with the other guys... *rolls eyes and growls* Sorry, gotta stop my rambling and go set one of my many muses straight... *trots off*
Disclaimer: We do not own anything affiliated with Gundam Wing or its creations. Angela does own the plot and in helping, I revised and wrote the story. A joint creation. Any original characters along with Blacke Diamond sprung from either her or my own minds.
~^~ Chapter 1 ~^~
Taking his regular seat in the back corner of the room, the silent youth turned his eyes from the immature and childish teenagers that entered, casting his gaze to the window. Well, this was different from the war, but it gave them time to rest from the brutal demands of fighting and the opposing soldiers. Taking on so much as a growing teenage boy and only having four other friends to help you when resisting hundreds of others really wore you down. The others had finally changed Heero's mind and he'd grown surprisingly bored at the safe house, needing to escape it and move about. Even he grew restless and his discipline failed to keep him still. High school couldn't be that bad, he could easily hide within the large masses of teenagers swarming about.
Sighing deeply and continuing to gaze out the window with longing, Prussian eyes, the youth's head snapped about quickly and his eyes turned piercing for a second more.
"When don't you sit and sulk?" Duo teased, walking up the isle with Quatre behind him, eyes set on the stoic boy.
Biting his tongue and sending the boy a warning glare, Heero only turned to his books and pulled out his notebook, letting his pencil sketch over the paper. He never had much time, nor did he take pride in it, but he wasn't that bad at sketching. It's not something that he enjoyed all the time though. The sketch was only something for him to do instead of getting the American youth back for his comment. "Why? You're happy enough for all of us, someone has to balance the emotions out."
"Heero, you've got to lighten up a little more. This is a resting period, a time for relaxation and trying to enjoy the life we're missing. You must try and enjoy it more, please?" Quatre walked up, blushing slightly at the girlish chatter behind his back as they made silly comments on the new boys.
Turning his eyes upwards and smirking, Heero caught the rosy tint in his friend's cheeks. "I'll try harder Quatre, but you've still got to learn to control your emotions more or do you enjoy being this embarrassed?" His tone was actually slightly teasing, but only to those who had a keen ear. Otherwise, it'd sound as if he were his normal self. Looking back down at the soft pencil marks and the faint outline of his gundam, he continued to darken the outline and add a few of the more visible details.
Biting his lower lip and walking to the window, the young Arabian only took in a deep breath to try and settle his emotions. Heero was right, and that comment his friend made only helped in his blush deepening. The gentle youth was a little careless in controlling his emotions and wasn't as strong in that area, but he wasn't weak either. It seems the others learned that for certain, as well as himself, only a few months before.
"Hey, you okay buddy?" Duo piped up, concern evident. Everyone still felt protective of Quatre, maybe sometimes overly, but they definitely knew now that he was capable of fending for himself. And they tried not to get too protective, to let him battle on his own so to say, but when he needed help they were right there for him.
"I'm fine Duo..." Giving a soft laugh, the teenager turned back to find Heero still working on his notepad and a familiar outline appearing. "You still worry too much Duo."
"Sorry, I'll try..."
"It's okay..." Assuring him with a gentle smile, Quatre peered cautiously over Heero's shoulder. He was finishing the faint shadows and random details of Wing Zero, a very accurate and good sketch. He didn't even know that the pilot could draw. "That's extremely good Heero, even for just a quick sketch."
"Humph..." Giving a soft snort of acknowledgement, the youth continued in darkening the outline, most of the details were only defined by the shadows. The sun seemed to cascade down from somewhere in the front, top, left corner of the paper, the same general direction the gundam was facing.
"And I suppose you do things like the Mona Lisa too?" Duo added, smirking in liking.
"No, I don't draw well enough and this is only something to keep me occupied so that I can easily ignore your chattering. You're worse than those girls by the door..." Placing his pencil on the desk, Heero sunk down in his chair, using the chair in front of him to put his feet up on as his eyes closed listlessly. In truth, he didn't want to be there, but he didn't want to be back at the safe house either. Not even the war, but he wanted to be somewhere else, outside, away from the cinderblock walls and feeling of imprisonment. One of the feelings he dreaded most, or rather loathed. Wincing at the sudden stab in his upper waist, the youth only moved into a more comfortable position. The gunshot wound from Une still bothered him slightly, but why when the others never did, he didn't know.
"And I'm Queen Cleopatra of the Nile. You're the next prodigy child, a regular Mozart!" Duo took the notebook in hand, sitting on the desk next to his friend's and smirking. "Do you do requests?"
"No, and you're confusing yourself again Duo." Heero opened his eyes and sneered, looking at his "hurt" features and almost having the urge to laugh. Almost.
"What do ya mean?"
Speaking softly and leaning against the wall as more students entered, Quatre cleared things up. "I think you've got the "No" part. Duo, Mozart was a classical composer, he wrote music and was famous for it. Like Beethoven, Schubert, and Brahms. They created art, yes, but a different type. They made music, the masterpieces of sound painted on silence. Yet, you may have been thinking of one like Leonardo DeVinci. He was a great painter and inventor, of France I believe. Or it may have been England, I can't think right now. He was the one that painted the Mona Lisa." Crossing his arms before his chest, Quatre watched Duo's stunned expression.
"I only understood about the first few words of that, maybe I should just look it up..." Turning and laughing, he climbed over the seat and looked back at Heero. "Hey, you mind?"
"Not at all..." was his clever and causal response. He knew what Duo spoke of.
"Come on man, not now!! I don't want to be serving any detentions today, I have a bad feeling this is going to be a bad day anyway... please?" Whining, Duo watched for the teacher as Quatre took his seat next to Heero, the desk Duo was using for a chair.
Snorting softly and putting his feet on the floor, the Japanese pilot straightened in his chair and took his notebook back, turning back to a previous page and working on the figure. It was a lone wolf sitting in the moonlight, her lean but strong form looking silently over the still and tranquil surface of the water. It was Keiha, she was a real sweet-heart, or so the others said, but she had a need to return to the wild and he had to return to the war. Well, he could actually say he had a "mother" now, but it was on a bit of a-different subject. She'd saved his life, and taken the time to care, even animals did, living life simply.
Quatre watched as Mr. Davall entered the room, opening his book and taking out his pen and notes, ready for the day. He enjoyed being able to go to school, be who he was and not being treated any differently, and not having to fight most of all. He'd had his fill of fighting already, and he was only bound to get more. Yet Duo's words struck him somehow. He said he had a feeling that it was going to be a bad day, and so did the young Arabian. But how bad? And for who? Now he knew he was going to be paranoid all day.
~-~
Standing from his seat at the counter, Trowa looked over his shoulder to find that Wufei was just waking up. "Are you okay?"
Yawning, Wufei was beginning to wonder himself. He'd slept in, and rather late at that. Then again, he didn't get a lot of sleep, something was plaguing his mind, but he wasn't for sure what it was. "I'm not sure. I just didn't get a lot of sleep, there's no need to worry baka..."
Eyeing the Chinese youth a moment longer, Trowa only returned to his seat and began to click away at the keyboard again. Heero had suspicions before he left to live and go to school in the dorms. The Japanese pilot had heard of a new organization, they called themselves BD, but what it stood for, he wasn't sure. The two young men kept it between themselves, not bothering to involve the others just yet. "Well, that isn't normally like you. Something bothering you?"
Wufei cast his gaze out the window at the late morning sun, suspicious of everything yet he remained calm. "I'm not sure what it is."
Nodding, Trowa felt something nagging at him as well yet couldn't place the feeling. Maybe it was that he should be out fighting to end the war and instead he was lounging around the safe house and trying to bring up information on an unknown group. "Try not to think about it too much, it'll come to you." Taking his fingers from the keys and flexing them, he decided that maybe he'd just hack into OZ's data base and see if he couldn't find something there. If he had to, he'd go to Sally and see if he couldn't get anything from her.
~-~
Sighing, Quatre took his gym uniform out of his locker and closed the metal door, a weariness in his once lively eyes. He didn't care much for this gym class, it was fun and he would enjoy it, but there were only a few people that he didn't care for that ruined everything. They were a couple of smart-alecky, immature, reckless jocks. They were the ones that gave athletes the bad name and stereotype. And even more, he'd be able to show them up today and then they'd just have more of a reason to gripe about and tease him with. Quatre didn't strike back nor retort only to remain mature and to get away from the boys faster, he had better things to do with his time.
"Well, isn't it lil' kitty-cat...." Sneering, Dæmon walked into the locker room, his eyes catching his prey, the platinum blonde.
"Girls locker room is that way..." Pointing over his shoulder, Zander smirked at the weaker-looking youth.
"Then you'd better hurry or you might just be late." With a casual air, he only continued in changing, taking off his uniform shirt.
"Ooh, he finally speaks. Too bad you're as weak as you look and I could slaughter you with one hand," Dæmon retorted.
"He can be taught, he actually used a big word. Do you even understand what it means?" Quatre shot back smoothly. Pulling the shirt over his head and straightening it out, the youth sent a mischievous smile to his friends who were listening and watching.
Turning him about quickly and throwing him into the lockers behind the youth, Zander watched his slightly startled eyes with a sneer. Dæmon only popped his knuckles menacingly. "You really don't want to mess with us you spoiled brat, or we might just end up hurting you severely."
Heero felt a hand on his arm, the warning in Quatre's gaze telling him to stand down. Duo knew his protective nature and at times, yes, he did have to remind Heero that Quatre could easily protect himself and if he needed help, they'd intervene. Silently, the Japanese youth slid his shirt over his head, taking a seat on the benches and watching his merciful friend out of the corner of his eye, not moving but to put his shoes on.
Duo smirked, Quatre was being corrupted as well. He was doing his job. The intelligent youth could be just as cocky and witty as Duo, even better at times. Hey, at least Duo had some good comebacks now that his "battle" with Une was over. He hadn't won, not by wit on his own. Yet, they'd won in the end when Lady couldn't break their spirits in full.
"I don't have time for this Zander, I've got better things to do than baby- sit." Feeling his peer's arm rammed further in his shoulders and throat, he only sighed and forced himself not to wince. The sharper part of the locker handle was jabbing roughly into his back. In one swift motion, the young aristocrat brought hands up, pulling Zander's arms in surprise from his chest and giving him a slight shove so that he was away from his face. Quatre didn't expect the young man to be clumsy enough to lose his balance, tripping backwards over the benches and falling to the wooden floor. Laughing softly, he caught the hint of amusement and surprise in Heero's eyes, Duo's was very readable in his features. "Now be nice little boys and go play, I don't have time for you."
Dæmon looked at Zander who seemed like he was ready to cry. Turning his eyes back to the young Winner with anger, he knew this kid was going to pay. "You really do have a death wish, don't you kid?" Sneering, he brought back his fist and threw it with all his strength at Quatre. When his hand stopped a few inches from the boy's face, he was surprised to turn and see that the other kid next to him had stopped his punch.
Gripping the boy's fist in his hand, Heero wasn't even trying or using any strength to restrain him. Watching his surprise, he twisted Dæmon's arm and brought it behind his back at a sharp and painful angle. Standing behind the whimpering youth, he spoke with a soft but deadly and cold voice. "I suggest," he hissed, "that you leave my friends alone or I will personally break both of your arms, then your legs, and finally cut out your tongue to be rid of your insolent complaints. Got it?" With the last words, Heero jerked the boy's arm upwards. Smirking at his pathetic form as he nodded, the youth only held him there and tightened his grip immensely around the boy's wrist. "What should we do with him? Any thoughts Quatre? Duo?"
"Well, we could always..." Duo teased, listening to the laughter of the other boys in the locker room.
Cutting in, Quatre replied with a soft chuckle but a sympathetic smile. "Go ahead and let him go Heero. Don't hurt him too much. The game's over, come on." Persuading his somewhat reluctant friend, he watched Heero release the boy. Giving a small nod of thanks and sighing deeply, Quatre knew that his day wasn't going too bad, but it wasn't going the best either. Maybe his feeling was wrong.
Heero turned from the boy, taking a seat and tying his shoe as he finished, waiting patiently for their instructor to get them when things were ready for the day of class. He would have felt better if he could have at least broken one of the boy's arms. Just to teach him fear and his place. Yet, this was stopped by Quatre's mercy and he only obliged with the youth's request.
"So, what are we doin' today?" Duo broke the silence within the three, there wasn't a second of silence as the rest of the teenage boy's continued to comment and tease both Zander and Dæmon on the recent events.
"I believe it's fencing." Rolling his shoulders and wincing slightly at the pain in his back, the gentle youth watched Duo's face light up.
"Cool, but I'm sorry I won't even come close to being matched with you Heero. I don't want to die if you get carried away, we'll save that for a more-reasonable time." Catching his glare, the spunky youth could only grin devilishly.
"Maybe I'll just take Dæmon up on his offer." Sneering at seeing the older boy's shocked and somewhat hesitant gaze, Heero only shot him a cold glare and grinned.
"This is only a lesson, we're not going for blood Heero..." chiding teasingly, Quatre couldn't help but laugh softly.
"Maybe not, but maybe we are...." he added softly.
"Heero, we're not trying to revert him back to a terrified, childish state..."
"Speak for yourself," the youth retorted, only joking with Quatre, or the best he came to joking right now, but he wouldn't mind taking on the boy and humiliating him further.
"Hey, sounds like fun to me..." Duo chimed in.
"Now you guys, please tell me you'll..." Quatre began but was cut off.
Mr. Komoro walked into the locker room, gazing about and breaking into all the conversations. "Okay, get up and get out there. The longer you take, the longer we're going to be here. Even if I have to keep you here all night. Come on boys, let's show some hustle!"
Standing and watching the others, Quatre gave a faint smile and jogged from the room. "You guys are lucky."
~-~
Calming his breathing and keeping his eye on Heero, Quatre thrust and tried to pry the fencing sword from his hands. Heero held on fast and his movements were quick and accurate. Blocking a blow, Quatre was beginning to wonder how much longer this was going to go on. They'd each taken a partner, Duo working with some new girl that didn't have a clue as to what she was doing, and he with Heero. They both thought it safer. Then they were picked to demonstrate, Mr. Komoro seemed interested with their small "battle". About now, they'd have to have been at it for at least five minutes, give or take a few. The other students had retreated back to the walls, for Heero and his fight ranged in the entire area, not just a small compact something that was supposed to be called a fighting area. One of them would slip up soon, they had to end this.
Heero watched as Quatre quickly jumped back from his attack, not having time to counter it with one of his own. Maybe things would grow interesting, to see who won this match. All the other students were amazed by the looks on their faces, even Duo slightly. Yet Quatre was good, especially at fencing, and he was giving Heero more of a "run for his money" so to say. "You're moves are growing sloppy Quatre..." Calling out with a smirk, Heero quickly switched the hand with which he held the sparring weapon, yet not quick enough.
Seizing his opportunity, Quatre thrust out and knocked the sword from the air just off behind them and to his side, watching it stab into the mat that they were using but the battlefield had grown from that. Smirking, he caught Heero's movements as they stopped suddenly. "Set, match. It's over." Breathing somewhat heavily as he smiled, he curiously watched Heero.
"I'm not ready to give up yet..." With a hint of amusement in his eyes, Heero sprung backward from the end of the fencing sword and straight into a double back flip. Misjudging the last of his landings and falling to his back, he only looked up to find Quatre with both swords, the tip of his against his chest as applauds erupted from around the wall space.
"Are you ready now?" Laughing softly and calming his breathing, he knew that if Heero had gotten to his fencing sword that he'd be done. Yet fate had turned in his favor.
"That was a simple mistake."
"That could cost you your life..." Offering his hand and helping the somber boy up, he noticed the glimmers of approval and amusement in his Prussian eyes. "It was luck, if you got this.." tossing him his sword, Quatre and his comrade walked back to the completely stunned professor, "I'd have lost, easily."
"Where did the both of you learn to fight like that?!" Mr. Komoro was about in shock. He didn't expect anything like that from his students.
"I had a tutor as a child..." replied the young aristocrat without hesitation or second thought.
"Natural," was Heero's reply, getting a very queer look from his instructor. What wasn't natural about fighting like that? He grew up different from other children, his play toys were grenades, guns, and other various weapons. That was, when he wasn't completing a mission or hacking into data bases.
"That was a superior match young men!" Gleaming in enjoyment and pride, Mr. Komoro walked behind his students, placing a hand on each of their shoulders but frowning when Heero shrugged it off. "Well, it seems you're further along then the rest of the students and it'd be pointless to put the both of you through that again. You may practice over on the stage or if you have other class work, you can work on that. Just till the others are caught up."
"Thank you instructor." Quatre looked over at his friend, then back to the doors that led out of the gym. He wouldn't mind getting his assignments done quickly and out of the way. "Are we allowed back in the locker rooms for our class work sir?"
Nodding and calling the rest of the astonished class to attention, he disregarded the two boys as they left the gym.
Glancing over at Heero, Quatre felt an uneasiness coming from the boy but debated whether or not to ask him about it. Heero didn't really open up to people, he never did nor cared to. Yet, he seemed to be debating the same, whether or not to talk about it.
"Just say it already Quatre..." calling over his shoulder as he pulled his locker open, Heero spoke bluntly.
Sighing, he smiled. "You just seem a bit uneasy. I don't mean to pry, but you know it helps to talk about some things." Receiving a soft snort of acknowledgement, the young Arabian only grabbed his books from his locker and decided that Heero didn't want to talk.
"Something is going to happen."
Turning about as he was prepared to head for the door, Quatre watched the boy. Maybe he'd heard something, but Heero didn't appear to have said anything or wanted to either. "Excuse me?"
"Something is going to happen and right now is not the best of times or places to speak of it...." Taking a couple of his books and his notebook, holding the pen in his other hand, Heero wasn't even sure why he was going to take his books with him and work on anything. Actually, he didn't plan to. More of an excuse to look like he was working so he could figure things out.
"Do you want to talk about it later?"
"Maybe." Taking his things and crossing to the boy's side, Heero waited for him silently. Normally he wouldn't have cared, but he was still very protective.
"All right.." Smiling and shutting his locker, Quatre grabbed his things and headed back to the gymnasium with Heero silently walking at his side. Once in, he had to trot and weave between the moving and dueling pairs, forgetting the steps of the stage completely and jumping up the height. Landing was the part he got wrong, coming down on his ankle wrong and sending a wave up pain up his leg. Wincing and taking a seat quickly, the youth looked up to find Heero setting his things down and walking over, worry mingling in his eyes as well as confusion. "I'm fine, just clumsy..."
A soft sigh was all that escaped his lips, the youth offering his friend a hand and helping him up, noticing that he didn't put weight on the once injured leg. "It's still bothering you."
"It will for a while, it wasn't just a scratch or a sprain Heero..." Giving a half-hearted laugh, the young man bent to take up his books and took a seat in the back corner of the stage. It'd be quieter and he wanted to be away from the prying eyes of his peers.
"Are you sure you're fine?"
"I am, you don't have to worry so much..." A small grin graced his lips, the youth walking normally in showing his friend that he was fine but it was still sore. What was bothering Heero so much? Yet another thing that was going to plague his mind all day. That, and why Heero was being so protective now. He was protective somewhat when they first met, after the incident with the lake and the entire of the capture and everything, he was even more protective, but not this much. Like he was expecting something or knew something that he wasn't telling. Closing his eyes and calming himself, he tried to search Heero for any answers, yet all he found was the same coldness as before with only a slight warmth toward his friends. But one other thing surprised him, there was another emotion and it seemed to dominate the others. Confusion and puzzlement. After a moment's hesitation, the youth opened his eyes and looked at his books, Heero sitting further down the stage, along the back of the wall as well. He didn't seem to have noticed.
Heero looked at the letters, the ones he'd seen and was trying so hard to figure out. They had to deal with the new organization he'd caught wind of, they were rumored to be worse than OZ and were going to strike their claim in the war soon, hopefully beating out everyone and by the looks of it, OZ and the Alliance would be too preoccupied to put up much of a fight.
They spelt something, but it was almost like a foreign language. One he either didn't understand or remember.
CLABEK DAONDIM
None of it looked familiar, but the spelling came close in another language. He wasn't sure which one but it meant: giant waters. But that couldn't be right, could it? Did the large bodies of water have anything to do with it? Releasing a soft growl, he only grew frustrated and continued to stare at the words. What was wrong with him?! What happened to his training?! This should be easy!
Duo watched his friends, something was bugging Heero and Quatre was caught up in his school assignments. That was obvious and expected from the genius boy. But something was wrong with Heero, something that wasn't normal. He wasn't focused, but it was like something was eating at him. Turning his attention back to his dueling partner, Duo was certain he should have chosen someone else. Someone who knew what they were doing. "Whoa! We're not trying to kill each other here..." Jumping back from the girl's clumsy swing, he knew that her skills in battle wouldn't matter. She was so clumsy, she was actually deadly with a weapon. The young American just didn't want to die yet!
Growing frustrated and bashful, the young transfer student threw her fencing sword to the ground, crossing her arms before her. "I hate this! I can't do this and I don't want to!"
Wow, talk about PMSing... this girl had problems and she was probably one of those snobby, popular kids who got what they wanted. He liked being popular and stuff, but her wimpy actions helped in giving popular kids bad names too. She didn't look it at first, but she was getting to be more and more of a pain. Picking up her fencing sword and holding it out, he offered it to her and tried to be nice. "Hey, it's okay. It's hard to get sometimes. I can help you out and... whoa! Take it easy girl!"
Swiping the weapon away and throwing it to the ground, she only glared at her dueling partner. "I don't care. This is all stupid! We don't need it in life and I won't ever use it! Why do I even have to learn this?! It's useless!"
Well, he knew that she was a pampered brat and had never fought before. It came in handy for him and the others. That was an up. Oh boy did it come in handy... "Look, I'll try and teach you."
"What's wrong here?" Mr. Komoro walked up to the two, the only ones who weren't practicing.
"This is all stupid and useless. I don't want to do this!" Glaring at her teacher, she refused to pick up the weapon again.
Groaning, Duo took a seat. "I've offered to try and teach her. She doesn't want the help. And to answer your earlier question, in my opinion, it comes in very handy Natasha."
"How?!" Turning and glowering at the boy, she watched his frown deepen.
"Well we all have to fight at one time or another. And it helps ya make quick decisions in short periods of time. Like the soldiers in battle." Oops, wrong thing to say! He was just glad that he'd said soldiers and not like deciding his actions in battle.
Nodding, Mr. Komoro listened to the two. "That's a very good interpretation Duo. It does help you to think on your feet. And to build up agility, speed, and accuracy." Looking about, he caught sight of Quatre and Heero on the stage, smiling. "You aren't allowed to give up in here Miss Howell, but I do know of someone who can teach you the basics while Duo can continue with his lessons."
Quatre's head shot up at his name sounding in the gymnasium, looking to find his instructor calling him over. Sparing Heero a quick glance and small smile when his Japanese friend looked over to him curiously, the youth quickly jumped from the stage with more accuracy and trotted over to Duo, the instructor, and Duo's partner. "Yes instructor?"
"Would you be willing to take Miss Howell off to the side and teach her the basics for fencing while the rest of the class proceeds? There will be a test over this Natasha, we don't just do things in here for "the fun of it"."
Sighing and nodding with a smile, Quatre took the fencing sword that Natasha must have held. "I can do that. Why don't we go ahead and go over here?" Watching her with patience as she walked over stubbornly to the corner, the young Winner knew that he was going to be in for a lot of fun. Only another hour and then it was lunch break! If he made it that long as well as his patience.
~-~
Sitting at the table and looking down at his food, Quatre wasn't really sure he wanted to eat now. Now he knew what Duo had to suffer, Natasha was so bad at fencing she was lethal. That was the fun part of trying to teach her. He now sported new bruises, but they were on his arms and covered by his shirt. She was also so clumsy that he was beginning to wonder how she'd managed life thus far!
Taking a seat and looking at his friend with a smirk, Duo laughed. "Have fun with Natasha little buddy?"
"Three words: I'm so sorry." Quatre picked up his sandwich, he didn't care much for the hot meals they served, they never looked like what they were supposed to be and weren't the greatest to eat either. Even if it was a private school and it was higher classed. Evidentially, the only thing that remained the same as public schools was the food.
Laughing, Duo couldn't help but smile broadly. "I think I'd rather have taken on Heero..."
"To be utterly humiliated?" Walking up behind the youth without any tray nor food, he only spoke softly with a somber look, per usual.
"Better than nearly getting killed by a girl." He retorted after nearly jumping ten feet in the air. "You've really got to stop that."
Now it was Quatre's turn to laugh, relieving some of the stress that was pent up from the unwilling girl. She'd actually worn his patience to near nothing. It had to be a first. "It took the better part of the hour, and a few bruises, but she finally learned something."
"She's weak and shouldn't fight. She'd end up getting killed or kill everyone in turn with her klutziness."
"Wow man, you don't know how much you just sounded like Wufei there."
Quatre listened to the two, not really hungry as he stood. He needed some peace and fresh air to settle his mind and confused soul. "I'm sorry you guys, but I'm not that hungry. I'll meet you outside on the grounds, I need some time to think...." Trailing off, he rose with his tray in hand.
"You okay buddy?" Inquiring in confusion, Duo watched the boy. He wasn't usually this depressed nor did he seem so forlorn.
"Just need some time alone Duo, it's nothing to worry about..." With a gentle smile, he left and dumped his tray, heading out the courtyard where a few people ate outside with cold lunches or didn't eat at all. It was nice out, not too bad but not warm either. Spring was just getting there.
Heero watched Quatre, wondering what was on his mind? Did he know something? The Japanese youth would have to find out later.
"I don't think he's okay man, has he been acting weird during class? You were paired with him in gym." At receiving a small nod, Duo began to grow slightly worried and confused himself.
Pulling his jacket over his shoulders, he'd grabbed it from his locker, Quatre took a seat at one of the deserted picnic tables. No one else was outside today. He didn't blame them, the only reason it seemed rather cold out was because of the wind. Why was Heero so troubled looking? And what was plaguing his mind so?! It was completely frustrating to feel something but not know what it is and have it stick with you. He was worried about something, but why couldn't the part of his mind that DIDN'T know figure out what the part of his mind that DID know knows!? "Urh... life is so frustrating!" Looking up at footsteps nearing him, he was about ready to greet Heero and Duo but the two people approaching him were far from his friends.
"Well looky who we've got here. It's the little girl." Dæmon sneered, knowing he wasn't in the protection of his friends anymore and vulnerable.
Rolling his eyes and standing, Quatre tried to leave and disregard their comments. He didn't want to deal with them anymore. "Look, I've got more important things to worry about that the both of you insubordinate, thick- skulled children wouldn't even begin to comprehend. In other words, I'm too busy to play, so leave me alone..." Swirling about quickly when he heard the other two persist, Quatre grew impatient and angered. "What, were those words still too big for you?!"
"You've got one heck of an attitude, but can you back it up?" Smirking, Zander neared the boy, ready this time for any of his actions.
"You both are really starting to get on my nerves." Gritting his teeth and hoping that Heero would just appear so that they'd run scared, Quatre waited and watched the door leading inside. He could easily defend himself in need be, but he didn't want to fight, not right now.
"Ooh, we're scared now..." Dæmon called sarcastically.
"Shaking with fear!" Zander added.
Standing before the youth and smirking, Dæmon watched Quatre and stepped in his way any time he tried to pass by. "Why are you trying to leave? Too scared that the other guy's not here to protect you? The party's just started..."
"I don't have time for this nor do I want to hurt the either of you now but I will if you don't get out of my way." Glaring with contempt, Quatre took a deep breath and tried to step by the two again. Still to no avail.
"Sure. Go ahead and hit me, I'll let you have the first try. The only free one you're getting. Come on..." Smirking, the older youth knew he wouldn't.
"And revert to your level of stupidity, I'm sorry, but I'm more civil than that..." His words were spoken through gritted teeth.
"Whatever, fancy words can't save your butt now...." Zander retorted.
"Just because you don't have the brain power to understand the words doesn't mean that you can easily cover up for it with false threats," the Arabian shot back. Quatre wanted to hit this kid, surprisingly. Yet, he wouldn't, he wouldn't sink to their standards nor draw attention to himself for fighting. Not unless he had to.
Dæmon only watched the stubborn youth with a sly grin. A small nod Zander's way was the only move he made. Yet then, without warning, sent a hard right punch into the blonde boy's stomach, listening to him cough and gasp as he crumbled to his knees. In sick enjoyment, Dæmon laughed coldly. "Is that a false threat little girl? I don't think so... you're just as weak as I said. You're playing with the big boys now..."
Coughing and wrapping his right arm around his abdomen, using the other to support himself, Quatre tried to fill his lungs with air again. He wasn't ready for that, he hadn't expected anything of the sort to actually happen or he could have easily dodged and sent a counterattack. Grimacing, he felt a sharp kick in his side as he was thrown on his back in the dead grass and hard ground. Bright blue eyes closing in pain, the youth coughed and tried to regain control over his breathing, or to take in a breath at least!
Zander watched, ready to take his shot at the downed youth before turning to catch a cold and familiar voice. "Run man! The others are coming!" Sprinting away, for he did fear the psycho kid who'd threatened Dæmon, he didn't hesitate to wait for his friend. He'd round the school, come in the back and head straight to class to wait, he'd be safe there.
With fearful eyes and a last sneer at the boy, Dæmon too ran from the others, there was something about that other kid that just wasn't right. He was like a serial killer in the making or something, a complete weirdo.
Heero looked out at the benches, finding Quatre laying on the ground and grimacing in pain. Without hesitation or second thought, he quickly raced to the Arabian youth's side, worry clearly etched over his features. By Duo's sharp inhale and silence, then the second set of rushing footsteps, he knew the boy had followed. "What happened Quatre? Are you okay?"
Gasping and coughing, the youth only turned on his side and wrapped his arms around his stomach protectively, bringing his knees closer to his chest. The punch he would have recovered from quickly, but that kick was hard and well aimed, along with being sharply upwards. A hand on his arm and the familiar voices told him his friends were with him, but it appeared a little too late.
"God man, what happened..." Looking about to find any cause of his injury, Duo couldn't catch anything. Not anything that could have caused this.
Opening his eyes and taking in deeper breaths, Quatre slowly pushed himself into a sitting position, very painfully and with the help of both of his friends, but he was slowly regaining his composure. Looking at the two who were awaiting his answer, Quatre only struggled to stand. He was sure that a few of his ribs were now bruised, if not fractured.
Heero held his tongue, gently helping his friend up and to a seat at the closest bench, watching him in worry. Something or rather, someone had done this to him. He was certain. Taking a seat by his side and placing a steadying hand on the youth's shoulder as he began to cough again, his features clearly showing pain, he disregarded Duo who took a seat on his other side. "Who did this to you Quatre?"
Laying his head on the cement table, he only replied softly. "It's nothing to worry about. I'm fine now, truly..." Falling into another coughing fit, he closed his eyes and listened to his friends shift uneasily.
"Come on man, tell us. You shouldn't have to go through this and they get away free of everything," the American persisted.
"I'm fine, or don't either of you trust me any longer?" The merciful boy knew that if he said anything, the others probably knew already, but someone could get hurt. Knowing them and their disregard for the teachers or "could care less" attitude about getting into trouble with the school. He didn't want that nor anyone else hurt on his behalf, even the other two jerks who'd done this to him.
Taking in a deep breath and lowering his guard, the iciness disappearing from his voice and the bitterness and indifference from his eyes. Yet he spoke softer, assuring the younger boy. "We trust you Quatre. Yet we don't want to see you hurt and they go without punishment." Frowning at his coughing, Heero knew that he was in pain still. He was learning to hide it well, but not now.
"Just please, don't worry about it or do anything. I can handle myself. I was just caught off guard, that's all..." Rising and opening his eyes, Quatre forced a small smile. "I can take care of myself."
"Lemme guess, those fags that give you a hard time in gym?" Duo piped up, standing as well.
"We need to get to class, lunch period is almost over and I have a thing for being late back and getting into more trouble than need be..." Trying to change the subject, he slowly began to walk to the school once more, dropping his arm to his side and taking in smaller, slower breaths.
Heero knew that Duo was right. Quatre couldn't throw them off at all. Yet he said nothing and returned to his friend's side, motioning for Duo to come as well. He wouldn't question the youth's actions nor his decisions, but if they touched him one more time, the Japanese pilot would punish them himself. Gladly.
Trying to get the guys to lighten up, seeing as how he hated being in a bad mood and his blonde friend was trying to change the subject, he started joking. "What? Falling in love with Miss McGuvney? You're in an awful big hurry to get back..." In a teasing tone, Duo put his clasped hands behind his head and gave a thoughtful look.
"Duo! Of course not! That's ridiculous. I just don't care much for being chided on tardiness nor detentions that you so seem to love." Smiling for real and forcing himself not to laugh at Duo's utter shock, he only entered the building with his friends at his side. "I've got to stop by my locker first guys. I'll go ahead and meet you in class..." Turning to head down the main hall, for their class was upstairs and down at the other end, the youth was surprised that his friends weren't still following by his side.
Stopping at the staircase, Heero motioned for Duo to continue back to class. "I'll watch him from here, and if you find the other two, warn them for me."
Grinning mischievously, Duo nodded. "They lay another hand on our buddy or even think about it or giving him a hard time, they die painfully. Gotcha..." Laughing softly at seeing Heero's nod of affirmation, he took the stairs two at a time and headed back to class.
In one swift motion, Quatre had the combination in the lock, the main locker open, his jacket away, and the locker closed. Turning, he found that Heero waited for him, leaning against the wall and his arms crossed before his chest. They always did worry too much about him. He'd survived so much more, a couple of punches and kicks were nothing! Child's play compared to the hell he'd suffered before. Nearing him, he smirked. "I don't need body guards, I just didn't fight back to avoid unnecessary violence."
Heero only stated bluntly as he turned to head up the stairs with his kind- hearted friend. "And it would have been rude to leave you by yourself."
Quatre couldn't help but laugh at this, yet stopped quickly and replaced his arm protectively over his ribs and stomach. "I'm flattered, truly...." Smiling as he focused and forced himself not to show his pain, he looked back over to his still worried friend.
Sighing deeply and nodding, Heero gave a faint smile in what seemed like forever. He quickly hid it though when another entered the stairwell, the two almost reaching the top. "I sent Duo back so as to get some peace and not have to listen to him complain."
Quatre wanted to laugh at this as well, but only settled for a smile. "He's finally gotten to you? I thought it would have happened sooner, how'd you manage the patience?"
Shaking his head and looking down the hallway, he watched as the students entered their classrooms. "Ignoring his stupidity."
Smirking, the young aristocrat nodded. "Easier said than done... come on, we're going to be late..." Taking the first few steps as he broke into a slow jog, Quatre couldn't do it and collapsed to his knees, wincing and hugging his midsection.
Yet again, Heero was by his side and kneeling, uncertain and worried. "We can be late to class, don't push yourself. Just say you weren't feeling well and it won't be lying..." Placing a gentle hand on his shoulder, the boy knew of the youth's disregard for lying unless need be and hating to do it just to get away with lame stunts or excuses.
Rising to his feet and swaying only slightly, the teen shook his head. "I'm fine, I wasn't thinking..."
Frowning in disapproval, he remained silent and walked by his friend's side and into the class, quickly taking his seat as Quatre did and just being on time. He didn't care, but then again, that was him...
~-~
Sitting in great discomfort as the last few minutes of class ticked nearer, the Arabian youth gazed once more at his books. He'd taken the test and was one of the first ones done, it was simple, he knew the answers, and now he was extremely bored. His book was back in the boy's dorms with his things, on his bed where he'd forgotten it. Duo somehow amused himself with doodles before laying his head down to sleep, Heero was staring at his notebook for some odd reason and seemed to become frustrated, and he was left with absolutely nothing to do. He'd take a cue from Duo and lay his head down to rest, but the desk was low and his stomach wouldn't take that. It hurt enough to sit up straight or move as it was.
Heero continued to look at the words, trying to figure out how the fit with the new organization and what they were up to.
CLABEK DAONDIM
Gritting his teeth and growing frustrated, he shut the notebook and laid his pencil down. What_was_wrong_with_him?! This was something a child could surly figure out! But what!? What did great waters have do to with anything? There were so many possibilities, yet none seemed to fit, not for what they seemed to have in mind. Maybe Trowa was further along in solving something, he had to stop getting so stressed over it. He had enough on his own with the war and trying to be the Perfect Soldier, let alone adding more to his problems.
Somewhat intrigued by the Perfect Soldier's angered and rash actions, Quatre knew that something was truly bothering him and he needed to speak to someone or ask for help.
*Rrriinnnggg*
Finally! The last bell of the day released the students from their classes, and off to roam the campus or return to their rooms for naps or whatever else they chose. That's all Quatre was going to do, go to his dorm room and lay down for a while. Standing stiffly and letting the other students pass, the youth only smirked. "Duo, wake up. Class is over for the day."
Stirring, Duo called in somewhat of a pathetic state. "Just five more minutes guys, I swear I'll get up..."
Rolling his eyes and dropping his books to his desk, or rather tossing them down, Heero watched Duo jump from his chair and look about as if he'd had a heart attack. "We aren't waiting for the rest of the night in the classroom. Get your things."
Trying to catch his breath, the outspoken teenager watched him with wide and disbelieving eyes. "What was that for?! I was awake!! Dang! You're as mean as they come! Quatre, what are you doing?! You're not supposed to side with him!" Catching the platinum blonde's smirk and soft laughter, the young man was glad he was feeling better. Then again, he was certain his heart had stopped a couple times doing that, so he quickly checked his pulse. It was racing so much that he didn't even bother to count it as one.
"You're alive, don't worry. Let's go." Picking up his books and walking down the isle, the stoic boy remained emotionless to all eyes, but to the keen eyes of his friends who could see they held hints of amusement.
"Yes, I just want to get back to the room and lie down. I'm rather tired and would welcome the rest." Taking up his books and following Heero with Duo at his side, Quatre closed his eyes for a long moment before opening them. "I might not even join you for dinner..."
"You feelin' okay buddy?" Duo glanced over, worry still lingering in his eyes.
"I am, just tired." Heading off towards the dorms where most students would go before entering the leisure rooms or wandering the grounds, he just wanted to go to bed.
After a quick flick of the light, Quatre placed his books on his desk, marking his page in his reading book and moving that as well, he laid carefully on the bed and didn't even bother with the blankets. A soft groan escaped his lips but Heero and Duo weren't in the room, Duo was caught up with one of his other friends in the hall and the antisocial boy only for a drink.
Most of the rooms housed four boys, but the three had gotten lucky and it was only them. There was one bunk bed and a single bed, three desks, three, small wardrobes, a full length mirror, and one window. It wasn't anything fancy, the floors were wooden and they did have air conditioning. Yet it worked possibly too well. Their room was always cold. Duo slept on the single, Heero on the top bunk, and Quatre on the bottom. Right now, this was working well for the youth, seeing as how it was hard to move period.
Placing his books softly on his desk, Heero sat down and opened his notebook again, trying to be as quiet as possible. Actually, it wasn't even trying, such a thing came natural to him, just like fighting, and it was easy.
"What's bothering you so much? You seemed to be troubled by whatever is in your notebook..." Looking to his side and realizing that the door was open, he knew that Duo probably wouldn't be back for a little while. Now, only to find the ambition to get up and close it for some privacy from the prying eyes of his peers.
Standing from his chair and closing the door as he watched Quatre sit up with reluctance, he only nodded. "I didn't want to involve the rest of you yet, but Trowa is the only other one who knows of this because of my ignorance in hiding it. There's something, a new organization starting. I've caught rumors that they may even be worse and crueler than OZ, probably waiting for the two other organizations to destroy each other before taking the war in their favor. And the problem is, it would also work if we were caught off guard and then we'd all be in for a lot more years of war, then more after that to finally decide what to do with the colonies." Taking up his notebook in hand and giving it to Quatre, he paced the room, uncertain of what to do or why he was having such a hard time with this.
Looking at the paper, he found two words spelt out in the middle of it, the outlines appeared to have been traced a few times in frustration. "What does it mean?"
"I'm not sure, but that's all the information I have at this time. If I can figure it out, then we can gather more. The word is foreign, it means of great waters. Yet for what they seem to want to do, it doesn't fit!" Finally growing frustrated again, he took a seat on Duo's bed and sighed deeply.
Taking in a slow breath, he stared at the words for a moment or two. They looked like a foreign language spelt in English, but it had to be something simpler. "Can I see your pencil a minute Heero?"
Curious and confused, the youth snatched it up from the table and handed it to him, leaning against the wall and looking out the window. He needed to calm down.
"Maybe we're making this too hard..." writing the letters again as he spoke, he found it easier to think about them if they were written in lower case letters.
clabeck daondim
Slowly, he rearranged the letters. It was like a puzzle, the youth putting the spaces for the letters and trying to fill them in.
B-L-E-A-C-K D-I-A-M-O-N-D
"This doesn't make sense, but then again, who knows what they were thinking. I think you might have tried too hard to find the answer Heero. It's just another puzzle." Smiling softly and handing the paper back, he caught his slightly stunned gaze.
"Bleak Diamond?" Of course!! It was so easy a child could figure it out, because a child would see that the word wasn't spelled right and the letters were just mixed up!
"At first I thought it was black, until the e was put in. I guess Black Diamond would have made more sense though..." Speaking mainly to himself, the youth took in what his friend had just said. More enemies, more work, more "fun".
"This took me three days to try and figure out, and you took two minutes?" Heero spoke with true amazement and disbelief. "Sometimes I wonder about you Quatre, and myself..."
Laughing softly, he decided it hurt and stopped. Wincing, the youth looked to his wardrobe where his more comfortable night clothes were. It was a pain to wear the uniforms.
"What's wrong?" Catching the youth's reluctance, he waited for a reply to his soft question.
"I'm debating whether or not I can find the will power to change from this dreaded uniform..." Smirking, he rose slowly and headed toward the large oak casing.
"Are you sure you're all right?"
"I'm fine, I'll just be a little reluctant to do anything rash or laugh too much too soon." Pulling off his uniform shirt and turning his back to Heero, he gently slid his regular night shirt over his head. Deep purple and blue bruises were already decorating his abdomen and just thinking about how long it was going to take for his body to heal made the pain return swiftly. He knew Heero was worried, probably much more than he was showing, but Quatre would be fine. His movements would be stiff and reluctant and he wouldn't be doing anything much, but he'd be fine after a few days.
Nodding and opening the window to let in the cool spring breezes, he let the winds caress over his body. It felt like silken hands delicately gracing over his features, coaxing him into comfort and carrying with it a sweet, crisp, wildflower scent. This was odd, considering that the grass was just growing back and the flowers weren't even budding yet. After a deep breath and a moment's hesitation as he let his eyes gaze over the gently rolling, emerald hills just off in the distance, he turned to find his friend heading once more to his bed and with a welcome look at that. "Then if you fall to sleep, we're not to wake you for dinner?"
"No please, I'm just tired and I haven't been really hungry lately anyway..." Laying down, though he let a wince slip a couple of times, the young Arabian pilot finally decided he was comfortable and he wasn't going to move. Even if a full fledged battle were to break out in his room! Within moments, he was asleep and not even bothering to cover himself in the cold room.
Later, Duo opened the door, laughing as he called down to his friend who stood at the end of the hall. "Talk to ya later man..."
"Duo, if you don't be silent..." Giving him a warning glare, Heero watched him quiet instantly and pointed over to Quatre's sleeping form.
Biting his tongue instantly, Duo was dead silent. He didn't know Quatre was asleep already. Oops! "He just fall asleep?" His words were a soft whisper.
Shaking his head, Heero once again fell into his protective nature caused by the events at the lake and with OZ's capture. "About half a hour ago." Crossing the few steps from the window to the bed, he could clearly see that his friend was cold but could care less when he was tired enough. Taking the blankets from the foot of the bed and pulling them gently, he placed them over the young man's shoulders and watched him fall deeper into their depths, seeking the blanket's offered warmth. As before, he took a seat at his desk quietly and didn't bother to look up or notice Duo's actions.
Staring at what Heero had just done for the second time that Duo had ever seen, he only stood there. It wasn't normal to see Heero opening up this much, let alone just going and pulling something like that. Yet, he was also extra protective of Quatre and it didn't seem to bother him. "Hey, you gonna come down for dinner or am I eating by myself tonight?"
"I'll be here and Quatre needs to sleep," was his blunt reply.
"Okay, well, I'm gonna go ahead and head down. I might be back right afterwards, might not. 'Less you need some help or something. I know, stupid question to ask..."
"Go."
Nodding and dropping off his books quietly, Duo left for the meal hall and left Heero to himself, Quatre to sleep.
Looking over his shoulder at the sleeping boy, Heero only shook his head and returned back to all the notes he had and information about the new organization. Somehow Bleak Diamond didn't seem right. He'd have to look it up.
Taking his laptop and turning it on, he quickly breezed past the firewalls and began to search for any information that he could find on the new organization, yet there was nothing. A soft whimper behind him caught his attention immediately, his head snapping around to find the platinum blonde wincing as he turned onto his side, obviously finally growing uncomfortable. Releasing his pent breath, Heero smirked. He decided he wasn't going to leave Quatre by himself again like that, not unless he had to. Again, he returned to his typing, rolling his stiff shoulders and trying to have patience with his constant failures in bringing up any information.
~-~
Duo entered the room, as quietly as possible when seeing that Quatre still slept and Heero was now clicking away, emotionless as always when it came to business, at his laptop. "Hey man, it's late. Are you gonna be at that all night?"
Sitting back and flexing his fingers, the young man surprisingly shook his head. "No, I'm almost done."
Casting his glance from his wardrobe as he changed to the Japanese boy, the classical one eyebrow raised in question look on his features, he sat quietly. "What's wrong with you?"
Standing and shutting the computer down, he only shot him a warning glare. "Must you be so loud?"
"Sorry, but usually I get the "leave me alone or I'll hurt you severely and don't ask me again, I'll quit when I'm done" glare. You just told me you were almost done. You didn't threaten me. Did you hurt yourself when I was gone?"
Rolling his eyes and putting his computer away, the youth climbed into his own bed and remained silent. He'd changed when the uniform had begun to get on his nerves when he was already frustrated enough. Not bothering to answer the boy's questions, Heero turned his back to him, facing the wall, and pulled the blankets to his waist. He was surprisingly tired for some odd reason. Yet, that didn't bother him as Duo finished quietly and turned out the lamp, having shut and hopefully locked the dorm room door. He didn't even bother to question as he slowly fell asleep, finally bringing the blankets up to his shoulders.
Duo climbed into bed, still plagued as to why Heero seemed so worn and why he hadn't threatened to kill him at least twice in the past four minutes! Shrugging the thoughts off, he placed his hands behind his head, clasping his fingers and gazing at the ceiling in thought before finally falling to sleep as well.
Shadows watched over the school, aware of every student as they settled down to sleep, regardless of any trouble that may lurk outside their very windows. Yet the shadows took forms, they spoke with human voices, they held human weapons of death. And now, it was only a matter of time before they'd make their move, and strike.
Authors' Notes:
Star: Okay, this ingenious story was sadly enough not of my mind. I thank thee greatly godschildamazed, another author, for helping me and coming up with this plot. This is more of a joint story and she's a true lifesaver, I thought I was going to lose interest in writing all together if I didn't get any ideas and soon!!! ~screams like it's the end of the world~ Oops, sorry 'bout that. She's sooooo cool....... ~hugs friend~ Anyway, I've got other stories started too, in help to my friend Rorie! ~hugs her~ and my Harry Potter author/friend (not J.K. Rowling, I wish!) Essence of Magic! ~hugs her too~ Okay, hope you liked this, this gets... interesting. Sorry, no mind games with my readers here, though if you like those, you might wanna read Mercy's Sacrifice! ~giggles mischievously~ This is a story after the lake/OZ incident, easier to understand if that was read first, but you don't have to. Like I said, this is Ang's plot, I mighta mixed a couple of things or changed, and I'm only writing it. But the plot was her idea... ~snacks on skittles and offers, then to Ang~ So, yeah... ^_~ Look for the next chapter, I'll be doing stories between honor's classes as a sophomore(10th grader) in high school(obviously) and band. I've also got to help for plays, in the pit orchestra, so the chapters might be a little slower. I'm trying to get them out for everyone... ~hands some skittles to Ang~ Here, you're main author, you say something! ~hands over attention to Ang~
Angela: ~mouth full of Skittles, chews then swallows~ Hi! I'm Angela, i.e. Ang. Also currently known as Stardancer's backup muse. I wish I could fully credit myself for this story and where it's headed, but I can't! Lady Stardancer is an amazing writer, and her authoring skills will make this plot into an intense and great read! As for the plot- it was influenced by God-given creativity, and might not have been if not for divine inspiration. ~_^ This is gonna be a trip, so hang on! You won't regret it! Make sure and encourage Star so she'll keep working on it! ~looks at Star with puppy eyes~ Can you pleeeease keep working on this story? Pleeeeease? Please? Oh, and can I have some more Skittles? Please?
Star: *hands more skittles and digs out a couple more bags* Don't worry, I'll keep working on it, I've got to or it'll never leave my mind! Hate that, but love this! Oh, Ang, you're not my backup muse. You're my new muse, full time, whether you like it or not! *giggles and hugs* Oh peeps, I'd like to help in giving a special shout out to Ang and good luck in college gurlie!!! *gives thumbs up and high five* Look for the next chapters peeps! Got to revise them, but that's it before I post! Hey, where are my other muses? Trowa! *looks about for him* I swear, if he took over my car again and went with the other guys... *rolls eyes and growls* Sorry, gotta stop my rambling and go set one of my many muses straight... *trots off*