Beyond our masks.
Summary: As far as the Mcduck clan know there are no more secret between them, or at least that's what the triplets and Scrooge thought. Now, shortly after Magica's defeat more troubles arrive, and in the middle of this is a parrot, a rooster, and an android.
Notes: English is not my first language... so excuse my errors, I will try my best. This fic it's actually a mash up of several concepts of Donald's adventures and alter egos, such as the duck avenger (Paperinik o Pk) or the legend of the three caballeros.
And also I can't write Scrooge's ascent, sorry.
Post shadows war.
Disclaimer: I do not own Ducktales nor the song based that appears here, I just changed the lyrics.
Chapter one: Getting Noticed.
"The irony of life is that those who wear masks often tell us more truths than those with open faces."
•Marie Lu, The Rose Society (The Young Elites, #2)
It was weird to say something, Louie was feeling weird. Louie felt himself sinking deeper into the cold darkness that surrounded him it was terrifying. He couldn't fight back against the ethereal force that enveloped his body, it was an oddly comforting and yet chocking sensation as he sank further and further into the eternal oblivion of perpetual blackness.
Louie always considered the evil triplet, the one without emotions more than creed, he shouldn't be afraid but right now he was terrified beyond belief, tears formed on the corner of his eyes. He wanted so desperately to scream, but he couldn't, the lump on his throat wouldn't let him emit even the slightest whisper. Finally he forced his eyes shut, taking several breaths to stead himself, fighting the nausea he was suddenly feeling.
He stayed like that for what it seemed five minutes, until the green loving duckling felt his surroundings morphing. He opened his eyes and to his surprise he wasn't in eternal darkness anymore, but instead he was in a nightmarish version of the city, nothing better if you ask him. But he recognised the place, he was near the mansion, so close home, he could walk back to safety.
Just as soon he started walking the weather makes his presence known by making rain, Louie groaned in annoyance, wondering if his uncle Donald's bad luck is rubbing off on him, he shuddered not just at thought of that but to the rain as well. The raindrops were more like needles, piecing the skin beneath his feathers, making more difficult to walk through the oddly empty city. After a few minutes of walking he remembered his phone, he could call uncle Donald or uncle Scrooge or anyone, resisting the urge to slap himself for not thinking of the way before he reached his hoodie's pocket to pull it out , breathing in relief when he saw it. He then grabbed the phone and turned it on. Or tried to.
"N-no, not now!" He panicked "Come on! Stupid phone! Please just t-turn on! Damn it!"
He tried again, and again, but it didn't work. It was dead, the battery, he cursed his own laziness for not charging it himself and just wait for his brothers to do it for him. Louie slumped against the bricked wall of a random building, seriously considering that his uncle's infamous luck was contagious.
"Ha, ha, ha, ha" he laughed bitterly and then quoted one of his uncle's catchy phases "Who gets stuck with all the bad luck? No one but Louie Duck."
After a few more tries with the phone he resumed his way home, he walked for another five minutes, he was almost there, just a block or two of distance. But Louie being him he allowed himself to take a break, he stopped for just a moment to rest his sore feets when he heard it, it was faint, he almost thought he had just imagined it, so he had to turn his head to his left to be sure and he heard again, a scream coming out of one of the most darker alleyway of that street. That faint, barely audibly scream, but that it clearly means that whoever's over there is in trouble, he grimaced and moved on the opposite direction of the sound, he can't help or even call for help, and he's just a child (this was the first time he felt that helpless) so it was better not get involved. He felt sick of the stomach to think of what that person's fate will be, but he's sure he doesn't want to share it.
Louie just took literary five steps when he heard it again, more loudly, more desperately scream.
A blood curdling scream.
An adult scream with a remarkable and unmistakable voice, he was sure.
It was uncle Donald's screams.
" UNCLE DONALD!" Now the younger duck was running towards the source of the scream, knowing he couldn't do too much to help, but he can't help himself, he's the only paternal figure he has. He can't imagine life without him, his fear intensity when another anguished cry, this time an " NO!" Reached his ears.
" I'm coming!" He yelled. " UNCLE DONALD!"
He ran straight into the dark alley, that only got more dark as he ran through it, and not only that but deepest, and longest and scariest. His heart beating almost painfully against his chest, and no longer caring about the fatigue he has, he kept running. Then to add more salt to the wound he tripped onto something, hurting both of his knees.
" shit" he cursed, he by pure instinct looked back to see what caused his fall, and for that almost regretted doing so. A gasp scaped his lips, his tears now falling free down his cheeks, unable to do or say something due the horrifying scene before him. Donald was on the floor, laid in the middle of a large puddle of blood that was spreading across the floor, with several cuts and bruises. The poor boy snapped out his stupor, crawling to his uncle's side, trying to figure out how to help, wishing with all his heart that Huey was there with him, he for sure would know what to do.
Donald's eyes were wide with pain. "Louie" he gasped, blood dribbling out the corner of his beak. The older duck's eyes were glazed over with immense pain, he didn't speak but he did look down at himself, a pained hiss accompanying his movement. Louie curious of what his uncle was doing, he checked as well and he couldn't help but wail at the sight, a dagger embedded deeply to the hilt on his uncle's side. Donald mindlessly brought his hands to the dagger's hilt in a weak attempt to pull it away.
"Don't!" Louie ordered, gently grabbing his hands " You'll make it worse, please just wait"
That's something that Huey had always said, and something he tried desperately to teach them. He's glad that at least he had learnt that simply fact. His uncle begrudgingly obeyed, letting himself being conformed by the younger duck, who's now caressing his temple in an attempt of soothing the agony he's being put through.
"H-help!" Yelled Louie as hard as the tightened throat could, he tried once more, louder " PLEASE SOMEBODY! ANYBODY!"
But nobody came, and his uncle's shacking got worse, his breathing elaborated and his eyes quickly losing his focus. He was dying.
"NO!" Louie cried " Don't leave me! Not you! T-this can't be happening! This must be a nightmare... please, please PLEASE."
Donald barely had the strength to lift his head. Blood poured from his side and from his lips onto floor, mixing with the rain. Blue eyes gazed up at Louie's face without a single trace of fear, tinged with sadness,yeah, but in the end full of acceptance.
Donald tried to speak, but he could no longer move his tongue as blood flooded out of his side. He raised a shaking white feathered hand and Louie grasped it immediately, clutched it as if for doing so, his uncle wouldn't die. Donald weakly returned the grip and Louie's heart hurt terribly, he knows how this is going to end. The duckling whispered into his uncle's hand, praying to whatever God or entity who's willing to hear his pleas, begging to safe the life of the one who raised him and his brothers.
Donald on the other hand was just letting himself go, succumbing to his injuries, his breathing getting slower and slower until it stopped all together. His cold hand slackened its grip on Louie's and his body became limp. Startled, he looked up, but it only served to confirm what he feared, his dearest un coolest uncle was gone, His eyes have lost their sharp edge, and for a moment he looks lost like the little boy of the portrait back at uncle Scrooge's parents castle. He reaches up and shuts his uncle's eyes, but his hand lingers on Donald's face, cupping his cheek until the warmth drains out of his body.
"NO"
Another scream cried out and he snapped his head to the side, two figures coming into view. A green parrot, wearing a brownish yellow suit and an umbrella, in tears. The other one, a rooster in purple and orange cowboy outfit standing beside him, looking utterly lost.
Louie didn't care, he doesn't know who they or what they want, for now the only thing that matters is that his uncle is sealed away on an eternal slumber. The usually indifferent triplet is now crying, letting out a shriek full of sorrow.
[•••••••]
Huey and Dewey woke up when they heard his younger brother's shrieks, they stared worried at the thrashing duck on the bed. Taking action, Huey shook Louie.
" Louie, wake up," he shook harder " it's just a nightmare"
Louie woke with a start, His hands shaking violently as he sat up, chest heaving. "UNCLE DONALD!"
"Louie, wha-?" Dewey started but was cut it off by Louie, the youngest of the triplets threw the covers aside and leapt out of his bed. He quickly made his way from his room, with his brothers behind and out into the hall towards his uncle's bedroom.
"Louie what's wrong?" Asked Huey concerned. Then Dewey added " yeah, dude, you look like death"
Louie ignored his brothers as he continued his way, In minutes he was outside the old mahogany door entrance leading into the guest rooms Donald had lived in since Mrs Beakley sank his boat three weeks ago.
"Louie..." Huey spoke again " it's 3 a.m., I don't think he's awake"
"yeah, Louie" agreed Dewey, putting a hand on his brother's shoulder. " you can talk to us, Louie. It was your nightmare that got you that nervous?"
Louie resisted the urge to roll his eyes at Dewey's obvious question, he knocked at the door (not wanting to intrude by just open it) once, then again more loudly, knowing it unlikely his usually fatigued uncle was awake so early, and just so soon after helping with the rebuilding after his new job.
"Louie..."
He tried again, harder.
"Louie, you're scaring us, please talk to us"
No response.
" we can help you...! Just let us know!"
He knocked again.
" Louie as the older of the three I'm demanding an answer!"
Nothing.
"please! We're family"
Louie felt a twist of panic on his stomach to his uncle's not opening the door, and annoyance as his brothers asked and asked more questions he not answering, not yet . He can't gather the confidence to just open the door and enter, his mind still plagued with the images of his uncle's corpse. Letting out a sigh he banged forcefully on the door. "Uncle? Uncle Donald, please, uncle Donald, I know it's late but I really need to talk, uncle Donald?"
" Louie, let's go back to sleep" Huey begged," you can sleep with us!"
dewey nodded " yeah, and tomorrow you can talk with uncle Donald or uncle Scrooge"
But their words fell in deaf ears as Louie knocked one more time softly then reached for the door handle, preparing himself for anything forward. Just as he gripped the handle the door flew open, scaring the hell out of the three of them, Donald was standing before him, looking very tired but at the same time worried.
"Boys? What is it? What's wrong? Are we under attack?" Donald's eyes were wide as he rushed out of his bed chambers in a fighting stance, forcing the triplets to back up a several steps, almost falling over.
Louie quickly searched his uncle's body for any injury but found nothing, he looked up to his face could see no longer the traces of pain of death and despair for leaving him alone, only panic? No. Concern, Not annoyance or anger for being disturbed so early, just plain concern.
"Boys?"
Louie let out a shaky breath as the invisible weight fled his limbs all at once, letting him breathe properly, not longer caring about the tears streaming down his face, before anyone could react he reached for his father uncle, wrapping him in a hug. He buried his face on his uncle's chest just listening to him breathe.
Donald's arms folded around him in return, rubbing his back, soon after his brothers joined the hug. After a while Donald finally stepped back, but found he couldn't bear to let his boys go, something deep inside him told him something was wrong, specially with Louie, so he kept one hand on the younger boy's shoulder.
"Has something happened? Are you ill? " he asked softly. The boys were surprised the older duck wasn't mad, or irritated, despite the bags under his eyes he seemed very aware and ready to help them. That made Louie feel a little bit guilty, he never realized how devoted his uncle was, and sometimes how ungrateful he and his brothers were, his cheeks blushed in shame, unconsciously avoiding his uncle's gaze. Then realization hit Louie like a bucket of cold water, he and his brothers had just barged into his uncle's door way before dawn had broken, pulling him from his really needed sleep only to start hugging him, Not a regular a thing he'd do at any point of these resents events on their's lifes. Damn, they didn't even bothered to hug or ask his surrogate father for his well being after Magica's defeat, Not wonder the usually angry duck was looking at them with a great amount of worry and confusion by the sudden change of attitude.
Louie tried and failed miserably to smile reassuring, Donald took notice but before he could ask his nephew continued. "No, I'm not ill, neither of us is, it is just that I had an unsettling dream" he giggled sheepishly " the most disturbing nightmare I ever had, uncle I just needed to see, to be sure you were well, that you're with us" he cried, earning a shocked glares from everyone " I'm sorry I disturbed your sleep for something so childish such as a silly nightmare." He sniffed " I'm sure you're too tired for this shit"
Donald decided to ignore the fact Louie swore to kiss him in his temple " I'm never tired for you or your brothers"
The triplets gave their uncle another hug, but the latter hissed in pain through his clenched beak, it was so low his children didn't hear it.
" let's go back to sleep!" He proposed with a smile, the boys grinned, following his uncle towards his bed. the ducklings tippy-toed over to his uncle's bed, which amused Donald very much, because there were trying to not make a noise to wake the rest of the mansion's residents, even though the little scandal they've made to wake him up.
They jumped on the comfy bed, they waited for Donald to walk over before settling down on the bed as well. He wrapped his arms around the three of them, but pulling Louie to his lap, before saying.
"It's okay to have nightmares, I have them too," and they won't ever go away " But... I had the best sister to comfort me."
The triplets eyes brightened, and he couldn't blame them, he'd always avoided any mentions of his sister and never gave a clear answer to them. Della's name was like the plague on his tongue and ears during the past decade, not bearing to mention it, and for that he selfishly forgave her children what was rightfully theirs, the knowledge of a loving mother, an reckless yet loving great uncle and her adventurous legacy. Now, he's going to change that, for them, for her.
"Our parents, your grandparents used to sing for us when we had a nightmare." He said. " when they died in that traffic accident and we moved with Scrooge, my nightmares were worst."
He paused, trying to not cry. " But Della, bless her soul would sing for me."
It was kind of conforming to hear that, to know more about their mother, but at the same time it was sad, because they never got to hear their mother's voice and lullabies. They hate to admit it, but they actually felt jealous of their uncle. Louie wondered how his mother's voice was like, and surprisingly, his uncle seemed to have read his mind as he added.
"Her voice when she sings is very soothing, she's talented just like the other things she does." He chuckles " I can sing too"
Dewey raised an eyebrow, incredulous" Really? How come?"
"Believe it or not during my navy years I met two wonderful men, together we formed a musical group, we performed on every party or any special occasion during our service"
Huey's eyes grew like plates " What!? You really were part of the navy?"
"Like in the actual military navy!?" Dewey added, coming closer to Donald's chest, almost pushing Louie out.
Donald nodded, laughing a little "well, of course I was in the navy" And I actually SERVED in battle "Did you boys actually thought the uniform..." He gestured to said uniform laying on the floor " was just for show?"
"yeah, something like that" admitted Dewey, while Huey says " I thought it was a weird fashion trend"
Donald rolled his eyes, but decided to continue his story "Anyway, as I was saying, I do know a few songs, some more than others, one in specific is written within my heart"
"uncle Donald" called Louie.
"yeah, Louie?"
" Did you sang for us when we were babies?" Huey, Dewey and Louie turned to him with big eyes, he nodded.
"Yes, my boy. I used to lulled you and your brothers to sleep."
"Could... Could you do it now, please?" Dewey pleaded, both Louie and Huey nodded in agreement.
"Okay, I'll do it"
Dewey closed his eyes, resting his head on a pillow, he's anxious because, even though is his uncle who's going to sing, he'll pretend it's his mother instead. Sometimes he wonders how life would have been if their mother'd raised them instead of their uncle. He loves his uncle with all his heart, but he wants his mother back, if Louie is greedy in the material/ financial area he's greedy in the emotional one, he wants more.
Huey was content, he just settled down, covering himself and his brothers with a blanket, he enjoyed this moment, wanting no more than melting in the warm of the nest made of blankets, pillows and his uncle's body.
Louie, was calmer, after the nightmare that almost caused him a heart attack him having his head petted by his uncle was the most gratifying sensation, and it was better hearing his heart beat.
The song that comes to Donald's mind is one that Fenton sings often, the one he learned from that musical he likes that much, the song it's beautiful, with a cute meaning, a very relatable meaning. It's what in Fenton's words a fatherly love poem, the lyrics are easy to remember, full of the love that only a father can feel, promising only the best to their children, not matter what sacrifices had to be made, promising that their future will be more brighter than his had been. Well, he's not their father, But he'll just adapt the lyrics so they'll fit them well, he cleared his throat and begins.
"My dear boys, what to say to you?
You have her eyes
your mother let me name you all
when you all came into the world, you cried and it broke my heart
I'm dedicating every day to all of you
Domestic life was never quite my style
When you smile, you knock me out, I fall apart
And I thought I was so smart
You will come of age with our nation
I'll bleed and fight for you, I'll make it right for all of you
If I lay a strong enough foundation
I'll pass it on to you, I'll give the world to you
And you'll blow us all away
Someday, someday
Yeah, you'll blow us all away
Someday, someday
Oh Huey, Dewey and Louie, when you smile I am undone
My boys
Look at my boys
Pride is not the word I'm looking for
There is so much more inside me now
Oh boys, you all outshine the morning sun
My boys
When you smile, I fall apart
And I thought I was so smart
My father wasn't around.
I swear that
I'll be around for you
I'll do whatever it takes
I'll make a million mistakes
I'll make the world safe and sound for you
Will come of age with our nation
I'll bleed and fight for you, I'll make it right for you
If I lay a strong enough foundation
I'll pass it on to you, I'll give the world to you
And you'll blow us all away
Someday, someday
Yeah, you'll blow us all away
Someday, someday"
By the time the song ended his boys were already fast asleep, he kissed each foreheads, but returned his attention to Louie.
"Louie, what did you dreamt about to have you that scared?" Donald asked not expecting an answer, shifting the sleeping body so that it rested in his bed. He cradled the little head as gently as possible, as if it would break at any moment. His fingers traced the soft, sweated feathers of Louie's temple and cheeks. the poor child was truly exhausted, he'd never saw him that terrified, not even during the shadow war.
Still asking himself what to do he decided to ask Louie tomorrow, yawning he curled himself up under the sheets, trying to get comfortable. Easier said than done, his bed was crowded with his children, but he couldn't complain, it was like the old times. Tonight had been a busy one, between going to work, fighting some petty muggers, avoiding being seen by Gizmoduck (Fenton, yeah he knows), patrolling and keeping on watch that new, clearly not suspicious tower in the city limits, his body was in constant pain, and well, hugs although conforming didn't help his aching bones and muscles. Tonight he got lucky that he made it here on time, barely to say least, he almost couldn't hide his costume, dress his injuries and put his pajamas on before the kids entered.
Sweat and a little bit of blood scent lingered in his whole bed, and it was irritating, he wants to showers, but he couldn't bring himself to move now that the three of his boys are cuddling against him. He didn't know how much time had passed, but he finally managed to relax himself into a restless sleep.
Sunrise came far too soon for his liking, he only managed to sleep two hours before his phone started beeping mercilessly (luckily his boys didn't wake), groaning he could barely open his eyes. Tiredly, and a little bit angry he forced himself to get up from the warm nest, shivering in the cold of his room just to grab his phone. He was very surprised when he saw the caller's ID on the screen, he quickly picked up the call.
"José?"
"Donaldo"
Donald winced at his friend's solemn tone, his grip on the phone tightened.
"Joe, what's the matter? It is...?" He asked but his friend interrupted with another question.
"Donald, você está bem? Are you injured?"
Donald huffed, trying to give a good impression " why'd I be injured? You know that we haven't been needed in a long time"
A long, awkward silence settled until the usually cheerful parrot spoke " I had a vision, Donald"
" José, maybe it was just a nightmare, just like Lou-"
"Merda, Donal'! Escute-me! I know what I saw, and you know that my visions are always right."
The duck swallowed hard, biting inside his cheeks, José out of the three of them was the most powerful magic user. Yeah, he and Panchito are quite good in casting spells but it was always José who had the mayor control over the mystical forces. Also, he was the only one who was a seer, an ability he developed during their years of military services, before they were even aware of their destiny as a caballeros. His visions were never wrong, he admits, wiping with his free hand the cold sweat off his face.
"What did you see?" He hesitantly asked.
"..."
"José...?"
"Donal', please tell me you're not doing, as the Americans say " any funny business" without Panchito, Xandra and me?"
He loudly gasped, quickly putting his hand over his beak, then nervously chewing his fingers. He'd never told anyone, not even Panchito and José about his life as Paperinik, only Uno knows, and to be funny about it Uno doesn't know about his life as caballero, he hates keeping secrets from family and friends, but it's necessary to keep them all safe. But right now, his wondering if José knows, or saw something in his visions, he's tempted to tell José everything about his double identity.
Shaking his head, he said "You know I wouldn't do that, we're a team"
" I hope SO"
"Joe, I NEED the truth, what did you saw?"
"..."
Donald glanced over his shoulder to the bed, with his kids, no... her kids still asleep." Did... Did I die?"
In the other end Donald could hear José holding his breath," Donald..."
"José, please" Donald cut him off " José, I am going to die? Because if I am then I'd like to make sure everything I'll leave behind is in order"
"NO!" Snapped his friend " you're not gonna die! Not if I can help it"
Another pregnant silence threatened to settle itself up, but it was quickly broken by the parrot who said.
"Por favor meu amigo, don't do anything stupid, don't fight alone. We're called the THREE caballeros for a reason."
"yeah, I know."
José sighed. "Look, I gotta go."
"Okay, thanks for calling. I hope I can visit you soon"
"Me too, Donal', tenha cuidado, adeus."
And with that he ended up the call, he stared the phone for quite while, he stood fully awake next to his bed watching his boys, resisting the immense urge to reach out hold them, not let go, to not disturb their rest. His thoughts swirled rapidly in his head, kept returning to what José said he saw in his vision, and of course, Louie's nightmare, all together... . It can't be a coincidence. The minutes slid past until the first hint of hunger began to make its presence known, since he could not longer stay in bed, he decided he'd help Mrs Beakley make breakfast.
He dressed with his sailor outfit quickly and quietly, making sure he covered all of his wounds except his Swelling ( and possibly sprained) wrist moving out into the corridor, shutting the door silently behind him.
[•••••••]
Bentina Beakley is an early riser, as her work requires so. She likes to cook a decent amount of food for breakfast, also she likes to bring Mr Mcduck his morning tea so he could start his day full of energy, therefore she could work in peace. But surprisingly the smell of eggs, bacon, pancakes, hot cocoa and fresh coffee greeted her as she walked into the manor's kitchen. What surprised her was Donald Duck cooking pancakes and humming to himself as he flipped them in the air, totally unaware of her presence.
Then Donald had his back to her, fixing the plates of pancakes, eggs and pouring juice, she cleared her throat to signal her presence in the room. Donald turned and smiled when he saw her before returning his attention to his chores.
But she didn't like that smile, it wasn't right, it was like a sad one, tainted with fear.
A fake one, and as far as she knows Donald, he's a very open person, anyone can tell which emotion the duck is feeling. You know when he's happy, when he's sad or angry, the most common one. Beakley has to admit that Donald had matured a lot since she met him and his sister Della.
Della, she thinks, the tragedy that broke a family apart almost twice, was the reason of it. Tragedy follows this family like a curse, a curse she hopes won't affect the children. Donald along with his twin sister ( five minutes younger ) came into Scrooge McDuck's life after Hortense and Quakmore's car got struck by a drunk driver on their way home. The Duck's car was spun with such violence into the guardrail, that clipped another three cars on its way. Quakmore Duck was dead on the impact, his slender body crumpling along with the driver's door. His wife Hortense did survive the impact, but was pushed so hard into the side window, her head slamming into the glass, she didn't make it to the hospital, joining her husband in his eternal journey. The drunk driver who caused such calamity survived without any injury, just sleepy, unconscious of the damage the crime he committed. Scrooge was devastated, his sister dead in a fate's unfairly trick, and the driver? No one escapes the McDuck's rage, jail wasn't punishment enough in his eyes, the rich duck made sure to ruin that guy's life. Since that Donald took the role of older brother more seriously, at first Della appreciated but through the passing years she grew sick of it. She was always too independent for her own good, but that's what Scrooge liked more of her. Della was a natural leader, she always could get away with anything she wanted, her confidence and ego got bigger and bigger, she thought herself indestructible, while Donald got ignored or just left out unintentionally, the expendable one. Beakley remembers only one time when Donald won over his sister, both of them wanting to join the army, Della the air forces and Donald the navy, but only the latter received the accepting letter. Donald, out of all the people not only approved the writing test, but also the physical one with good grades. Della was beyond upset, but Scrooge managed to calm her down, telling her if she wanted so badly to become a pilot she could just go to a piloting academy, she agreed and became the best of her class. When the whole spear of Selene fiasco happened, Donald was barely an adult when he took his nephews in, expended all of his savings so he could bought his boat and all the baby stuff the boys would need.
The relationship between Donald and Scrooge McDuck was ripped off just like that, but even during those years he was still the most open person. The few times she ran into him he honestly answered her questions, saying life was hard, raising three boys without any stable worr, he once openly admitted he was depressed, but he'd never give the custody to his uncle. He never pretended be happy, not even when his sister got the attention, he'd always say or show how he's feeling, if was jealous, if was angry, no matter what he never hides his emotions.
But now he's pretending... why?
Perhaps she's just imagining things, but her training as a spy told her something was up. Maybe Donald was always wearing a mask of emotional stability, after all all the attention went to Della so one actually asked how he felt. Now, suddenly realizing this, the more she thinks about more sense gets, maybe the mask Donald wore his entire life was so good, so perfect that not even his own family never knew he was wearing it.
Bentina Beakley was at a loss of how to think or act, the implications of her theory hitting her like a sledgehammer to her chest. She wants so badly to believe that she's paranoid, but after the recent chain of unfortunate events something in the back of her mind whispered that there is a great chance that what she's theorizing is true, that the mask that Donald used to endure everything he faced had finally shattered for the overuse, but he still use this type of defense mechanism hoping no one will notice the cracks on his plastic defense... Because who would actually care enough to check?
"Mrs Beakley?"
The slightly concerned voice pulled her out of her thoughts. She turned to greet the duck.
"Yes, Donald?"
"You... well, kinda spaced out." He pointed out. "Are you okay?"
And again, the duck gave her that stained smile. She forced a smile of her own as she politely replied.
"Why of course, thank you. Just tired"
Donald just nodded, and handed her a plate of food. "Then is a good thing I cooked breakfast today, isn't ?"
She smiled grabbing the plate "Thanks, but let me help you with the table."
[•••••]
After a while Scrooge followed by the kids, Webby being the most active. The boys looked really tired, especially Louie who yawned his way to the table. Bentina with the help of Donald served the plates to everyone, giving each one a smile, Donald even patted Scrooge's shoulder after smiling to him, surprisingly him in the process. Then the ex- sailor quickly settled into the normal routine of a McDuck family breakfast; there were at least more than one conversations going on, and people kept raising their voices to be heard over the roar of conversation. Huey, Dewey and Webby didn't really noticed that Louie and Donald were both oddly quiet, painfully quiet. How could they? Webby, Huey and Dewey were so busy in their conversations, planning in getting information about Della Duck, now that her name wasn't a taboo anymore. The three of them assuming Louie was still tired from his nightmare.
As you can see, silence is a very rare thing in the McDuck mansion (much to Donald and Mrs Beakley's dismay). They weren't too many people in there, but adventure is in the air, it's like so that when a prolonged silence corrupts the room, everyone would look up, expecting to hear big news, adventurous news. Something very frequent during McDuck's breakfasts, which is the most important time of every day. It was the time of every day where big plans were made and life-changing/ threatening adventure proposals were announced. Almost Every morning, when the oldest duck was not in a meeting, Scrooge McDuck would take his time eating breakfast, host a small breakfast meeting at his dining hall, the entire McDuck-Duck (plus their honorable family member, Webby) clan would pull their next scheme. Today's news? Nothing too much exciting, Gladstone within two days will come to visit, but before Donald could protest or make any excuse to avoid seeing the lucky relative his uncle Scrooge promised that as soon as his lucky cousin arrives they'll setup for another adventure.
At that point, there were only a few seconds of silence before the rich duck was bombarded with questions, even from Louie.
"where will we go?"
"Uncle Gladstone?"
"will uncle Donald go too?"
"Adventure!"
"Are we gonna fight a monster?"
"Will a treasure waiting for us in wherever we're going?"
"Louie!"
"Are you serious, Louie?!"
"what!? It is a fair question?"
"yeah I know but-"
Their little argument stopped at the sound of a shattering glass, Scrooge and Bentina whose whole attention were into the kid's affair they completely forgot that they weren't the only occupants seated the table. They all turned their attention to the source, gasping loudly at the sight, Donald was grasping his left wrist in pain.
"Uncle Donald!" Four voices yelled in unison.
he smiled at and began pulling his sleeves even more down. " Ohhh, phooey, silly me and my butter fingers"
He gave a nervous, almost maniacal giggle trying to look normal and failing so bad. Internally he was hoping his family will just shrug their shoulders at him and then return to the conversation, forgetting about him in the process so he could sneak out to his room and patch himself up. But knowing his luck, that's not gonna happen, things can't never be easy for him.
He was right.
Scrooge realized something was wrong, very wrong with his nephew. "Donald, what happened to your wrist?"
Said duck by pure reflex looked down at his wrist for the first time, he gulped, adjusting the collar of his sailor uniform. It had swollen as much as the sleeve allowed and was various shades of blues and purples, the clothing not long enough to cover it.
He chuckled, taking a half step backwards "I- I... well, I- I was taking a walk last night, and... I got mugged... by the Beagle Boys?" Not entirely a lie, basically he was telling the truth, except he wasn't the victim. " And I- I guess I hit palookas harder that I thought."
He could clearly see nobody buy his lie, at least not all of it, maybe they're giving him the benefit of doubt. Donald was SO deep in thought that he didn't noticed when Scrooge walked towards his nephew, give him a quite scare when he gently grabbed his arm. The old duck took this time to further examine the offended wrist in his own hands, but seeing as the millionaire wasn't a medic, a healer or someone with any medical knowledge, his examination just consisted of meticulous poking.
"Ouch! Uncle Scrooge, what the heck! Don't poke it! " Donald violently yanked his injured limb out of his grasp, only to further agitating it (curse my luck), and cradled it close to my chest, shuddering as a wave of hot pain went through his body.
Scrooge's heart skipped a beat, he ignored Donald's protests and put a hand on his right forehand.
"Lad, listen... you need to get that wrist checked out. I'll call a doc-"
"No, it's completely fine" Donald raised his left hand and began to move it whilst trying to mask any signs of pain "See? It looks worse than it actually is, no need to be a bother, no need to spend money on your whiny nephew."
Obviously his uncle wasn't convinced of his statement, and in fact a hurt expression spread on his old face, he moved his hand to touch his good hand. But he startled back when Donald snaps his head to the wall behind so fast, that Dewey could've sworn he heard his uncle's neck crack, he looked for second or two the clock hanged in there and then faces the duck in front of him. " Oh NO! Oh boy! Look at the hour! I'll be late for work I must go." Before Scrooge could have a proper hold on his nephew's arm Donald showed down his throat what was left on plate, then he drank his coffee quickly. "Now if you'll excuse me, uncle Scrooge. I think I'll head back to my room."
It wasn't a surprise to them Donald would think a job more important than him, this job particularly. It was pretty good job, a decent salary for a job as a security guard in a mall. His boss is a kind old dog, the few times they actually got to see him seemed to be a good man, treating all of his employees as grandchildren.
That's why he can't just let him down. They thought.
Donald walked backwards, not daring to turn around, walking clumsily like that until his back leaned against the door, his hand blindly searching for the doorknob, twisting it open.
" I need to get dressed, and... call my boss, you know. Hopefully they didn't get a chance to pack my stuff from my locker." He bladders as he spun around and headed upstairs as quickly as possible, not leaving room for anyone to ask something else.
Scrooge seemed ready to follow the nervous duck upstairs, in fact he was going to but just as he went through the door frame his phone rings, not needing to look at the ID he answers angrily, not bothering to hide his frustration.
"what!? Yeah, yeah , I'm on my way, bye." He snapped shut the dispositive before growling. "You don't know how much I hate those vultures!"
Before Scrooge could complain any further, Beakley assured him she'll find out what's wrong with their temperamental duck. Scrooge was still reluctant to leave but another ring of his phone forced him to begrudgingly agreed with his maid. Hugging each child before leaving he shot a last glance to his nephew's door before leaving. Beakley not wasting time turned her full attention towards the ducklings at the table, they were planning something, she knew. They, in the ex-spy's eyes are too predictable, she right now can see through them like glass, she knows what they're about to do. She'd have to think fast to cover Donald sorry behind, not only from the children but apparently from Scrooge as well.
She got an idea, an offer they can't possibly resist, yeah it will her a lot of cash, but she hopes it would be worthy.
"Children, please listen." Beakley called " You all haven't been outside for a while, except when accompany me for groceries yesterday. So I thought it's fair you all go out for a movie and then a pizza."
The ducklings beamed with delight, but Dewey, of course looked suspicious, and to be honest, she didn't expected otherwise, through transparent as they can be they're no fools, especially Dewey.
"What's the catch?" He asked more hastily than he intended, earning a elbow on the ribs from Huey.
She put the most sweet smile she've ever muster on, and said. " There's no catch, Dewey. Remember the promise we all made after Magica's defeat."
Dewey nodded ashamed, but it was Huey who replied softly " No more secrets and no more lies among us."
...And sadly, it seemed Donald was breaking that promise.
Pushing aside the betrayal, she grinned, pulling a few bills from her pocket, handing over Webby.
"Go on and have fun, my treat."
Finally they took the money, and Webby said. " Thanks grandma, bu... don't you want to come?"
Mrs Beakley smiled sadly as she shook her head in denial. "I have too much work to do."
"Bye, kids. See you in the evening!" Called a voice, Donald's, shortly followed by the sound of a door being slammed.
She cursed softly, she wanted to speak with Donald in private. The kids, luckily were too existed with the money, and quickly started doing plans. She, to make sure the kids leave the house along so she can do her work, her spy work.
Huey, being polite as always, asked." Are you, Mrs Beakley?"
"Yes, my boy." She said " You go, I'll be fine."
Finally, though hesitantly the children nodded, learning Beakley with a wave of the hand. She patiently waited until they left, now alone, she starts her plan for Scrooge.
The first step? Prying on Donald's room. Then, in his stuff.
[••••••]
Later at the mansion.
His shift ended around four, an hour early, his freaking wrist was hurting worse than before. Of course she noticed, why'd he thought he could possibly fool her, she knows him well. Tempest, since their meeting they got along almost instantly, it was like an click. In their short time as partners they deployed a "back to back " kind of relationship, even they questioned why, with only three weeks of knowing each other they're close. Maybe it's their common dislike, scratch that... hate for their also partner Fitzroy, the usual boots licker-backstabber moron every workplace has.
Or...
Or maybe it is more complex than just a simple common dislike, deep inside him something tells him Tempest is more than just an average security guard, there's something about her he can't put a finger on what is it, but not in the bad way. It's something like there's a tragic, very dark history behind her, and he's certain she thinks the same about him, but... that's story for another day.
Grinning, he remembers when Tempest came to him to sit down for a break around 3:45 when she noticed, she grabbed his wrist gently, and with one look she said it everything, you need to rest. Saying that she stood and turned to leave, he was frustrated, rubbing the bridge of his beak, after years of being ignored just now everyone started to get noticed, great. When his break ended he was about to go back to his place, but was intercepted by commander Bloom, way to go, Tempest. As expected, the girl told him about his sprained wrist, he ORDERED him to go home, but not before giving him medicine, MEDICINE FOR FREE. He was touched, these people, Tempest and commander Bloom were so nice to him, making him feel loved, appreciated, just like Panchito and José would making him feel. Or being a rock to hold up, a shoulder to cry on, like Goofy was (he still is, through phone calls now) after been dismissed for the day, Bloom told him to rest and if he felt better come back tomorrow.
He drove home, and waited to Mrs Beakley to open the front gates, As soon as the access was granted he raced his car to his usual parking lot. He opened the door with his key, as he came inside he gladly noticed the lack of noise. The kids and his uncle weren't at home, so he can take his medication without any questions, and maybe sleep. He went to the kitchen, directly to the fridge, grabbed a bottle of water and dragged himself upstairs towards his room. Exhausted, he'd just collapsed on his bed, after having changed into his night clothes, he swallowed the pills with a sip of water. He didn't know what the pills were, nor he did care, the effects were pretty good, the pain slowly faded, then he was lured into a restful sleep.
His rest didn't last much, only an hour and a half, he'd felt amazingly better, his muscles weren't hurting any longer, and well, yeah he'd been asleep just for more than an hour but, were the best rest he ever had. BUT, and in his case there's always a BUT, he has a tumbling sensation on his left arm. He groaned in dismay as he realized why, he'd fallen asleep on his side, his bad side, adding all of his body weight onto his injured wrist. Annoyed, he moved to his side, but due his usual luck he put a little bit more strength than necessary. Rolling out of bed is not definitely a good way to take care of a bad sprain, and absolutely rolling out of bed like a toddler and falling on your injured wrist is infinitely worse, an opposite of healthy.
"OUCH MOTHERF-" he clasped his beak shut with his uninjured trying the best he could to muffle his scream, cutting his curse short. He stayed on the cold, carpeted floor for a couple of minutes, trying to standardize his breathing, while listening for any movement outside my room, fully expecting Mrs Beakley making her heroic entrance.
But she didn't.
He allowed himself to relax enough to get on his feets again, bitting back his pained tears of pain, suddenly wishing to strangle Ma' Beagle. Whoever who dare to say she can't defend herself, deserves a kick in the butt, he considers he deserves one for underestimate her. She's the reason his wrist is that bad, she can hit hard and twist fast, a lesson he learned in the bad way.
Donald, moving slowly he tries to get up, but his worsened wrist protests his sudden movement. Frowning he tries a second time more successfully, hauling himself up with the nightstand as a support.
His stomach growled loudly, and he was suddenly quite aware of how hungry he was, in fact he was starving. Then, he remembers, though he did eat a lot of breakfast, his only lunch that day had been a small carton of grape juice and two packs of biscuits. Resignation flashing on him, he needed energy for tonight's patrol. Standing up from his nightstand, he neatly re-adjusted her night clothes and collar. He pushed the door open, peaking from the slightly aperture scanning the hallway with his amulet's senses, Beakley was on the backyard. Humming Absently he walked out the door, and closed the room behind him with the back of his foot.
Donald enjoyed walking down the vast corridors in splendid silence, maybe fortune may grace him today, and can have a small dinner before he have to "work". It's not that he doesn't want to have a lovely dinner with his family, but not today, he just want to have a couple of hours of sleep before meeting Uno. He simply can't skip patrols, not since Magica's still free, not since that abandoned tower suddenly out of nowhere started working, with employees, and trucks delivering equipment in and out, not since he can sense danger thanks to his amulet, possibly meaning the return of Felldrake and the reassembling of the Three caballeros, and more importantly, not since José's warning. He shook his head, trying in vain to clean his foul mind, just getting a headache in the process.
Making his way through the maze that McDuck manor was , he made his way to a specific door, reaching his hand out to open it. He walked into the empty kitchen, towards his second trip to the fridge of the day, opening it, searching for something light to eat, the he noticed a double hamburger on one of the shelves, and a carton of chocolate milk. Not wanting to use any plates, because he doesn't want to wash them later, and he's not that Inconsiderate with Beakley to just let the dirty dishes in the sink. He was so busy devouring his burger and, drinking the chocolate milk straight from the carton he didn't noticed the presence creeping behind him.
"Your uncle Scrooge will go on a rampage when he finds out you're lying about your injuries..."
Donald literary jumped a foot in the air with a shout, dropping the hamburger and spitting all the milk, worst of all, hitting his wrist on the countertop on his way back down, now cursing without any shame. Snapping out of his stupor he attacked his "assailant" quickly, his fist barely stopped by his attacker's palm, Beakley's palm. And to say least, Beakley was just caught off guard as much as he was.
'Great, Just about the last person I'd want it to be. Please, don't ask. Please don't ask. She can see through anyone'
Bentina Beakley wasn't exactly the last person he expected to run into the manor, not because he didn't expect her to be around the kitchen to make dinner or just clean it, but because It was dreadfully silent, a seriously, spooky Mrs Beakley.
Slowly, making eye contact with her the entire time he retreats his fist, not breaking eye contact. Donald waited for her to give him one of her characteristic blank-stern stare, ask him to clean his mess and then leave, like usual, but she didn't. Instead her gaze drifts lowly, towards his left wrist and her expression melted, it Softens making Donald involuntary blush. He coughed, breaking momentarily the eye contact, before resuming his rigid posture again. Not sure what to do next, they just stood there as an awkward silence fell over two adults, neither of them knowing how to break it. That's when Beckley cleared her throat, making only one question.
"How's your sprained wrist?"
Donald sucked air, did she really can know a wrist is sprained by just looking at it, well, isn't that hard really, his wrist is a gruesome sight. Now, maybe the wrist is broken.
He needs to pretend.
"Mrs Beakley... It's nothing, really" he said while he moved to hide his injured hand behind his back "Nothing a good night of sleep can't help."
Not saying a word she grabbed his good forearm and led him all the way to her room. He has to resist the childish urge of pulling his arm from her, to yell or fight back, instead he lets himself being lead.
Once there she half motioned half forced him to sit on her bed while she rummaged through the many cabinets she have. Then, she returned, she sat across from him, on a small chair she has. Setting down gauze and tubes full of different creams, she grabbed one of the tubes of cream and once more motioned for his left hand.
"Beakley, really it's fine." He said weakly "You know It's not like I haven't had worse, you'd seen it yourself"
Her hands stilled and her eyes met his, searching for answers she knows hewasn't ready to give.
His gaze drifted to her windows, the sun was about to set, painting the sky with beautiful colours, a combination of orange, purples and blue, with the small presence on a few stars. He smiled despite himself, he used to watch the sunsets with several people, with people whom meant something to him. When he was a child, back when his parents were alive and Della was still there, they used to watch the sunset together, and then stargazing. After their death he started doing it with Mickey and Goofy, they'll just grill sausages while camping on the backyard of Mickey's house or Goofy's in those hot summer nights. Three adolescents with the world at their feets, planning their future, so promising back there, how naive they were. During his navy years, Panchito and José would sit beside him on deck, whether they were on watch or not, just the three of them against the world, watching the sun goodbyes were the cherry of the cake for them. That didn't change a bit when their duty as a caballeros began, now after a mission they'd just sit around a fire (which reminded him of his childhood's friends) and enjoy the sunsets. And finally, there's Uno, the A.I couldn't understand why this natural event was so important to Donald, but since he built his artificial body he'd just keep accompanying.
Now, with the dying sun's rays piecing the windows, he just stares at her as she works in silence.
Until.
"That was a delicious breakfast today, Donald." A compliment definitely wasn't what he was expecting, an interrogation, yeah but a compliment?, no.
"um... Thanks." He says uncertain.
Then, more boring silence.
"Donald, please, tell me who did this to you?"
Donald kept his gaze down, slightly trembling " I'm sorry... I can't"
"Donald, you can trust me, because I do trust you" she confessed, looking at him, pleading.
"I...I..." Her stare became too intense and he had to look away, wanting to confess, Beakley could be a great ally, she could cover him. But, she's loyal to Scrooge, he reminds himself "so does this mean you trust me now? At least a tiny bit more than before?"
"Why wouldn't I trust you, Donald?" There's hurt laced in her voice and it surprises me enough to meet her gaze again. "I trusted you since the beginning."
" Well, you... always agreed with uncle Scrooge, you almost kicked me off the mansion on our first day, you doubted me not once but twice during the shadow war... What am I supposed to think, Beakley? If you know be my guest." His tone wasn't accusatory or angry, just confused. "You, Scrooge and everyone trusted Della's abilities more than me, even way before we went to our first treasure hunt."
Deep in thought, the maid returns her attention to his wrist but Donald keep his pained gaze focused on her, trying to figure out the puzzle that is in Bentina's mind, does she knows already and just wants a confession. Just when he was about to open his beak to say something, a wave of cool sensation on his wrist, forcing his focus on the lack of pain on my wrist, he's amazed.
"What was in that?" He's truly curious, is the second time of the day he's almost cured by magical medicine.
The only response Beakley gave him is a mumbled " You don't want to know"
Donald can get the feeling, or the fact that he'd offended her by his comment about trust. Several minutes passed by in silence as she applied other creams on his now numbing wrist, not even bothering to ask again the contents of the wonderful creams, letting her work in peace. Donald was almost asleep when Beckley proceeded to wrap his limp, doing it firmly but not enough to make it painful. Satisfied, she was putting her supplies back in their respective cabinets, except a few that she put on a paper bag.
She turns back facing him, when she spoke again, giving him the paper bag "Use the first cream whenever the pain gets to be too much to handle along with the pills your friends gave you, use them with a drift of half an hour."
'What!? How does she... agh. Forget it.'
"But..." She continues "Don't use it more than two times per day, and be sure to rewrap it nice and tight after applying, if you like to, I'd do it anytime" She said " Well, I need to cook dinner, I'll tell the kids and Scrooge you're feeling under the weather and can't join us. I know you want a rest, I also, will bring you dinner." Said that, she headed toward the door without looking at him.
Donald felt totally ashamed, why'd she do this, why'd she, like apparently everyone else today suddenly care and notice. She was willing to listen to him and heal him, after what she did for him even after he "confessed" he didn't trust her, instead of thanking her or asking forgiveness, he's just staring leave like an idiot.
He must do something. Anything.
"Wait!" She, thankfully stopped, hand already around the doorknob "Beackley, I- I'm sorry if I insulted you about trust. I- I know you're trustworthy... it's just-"
"I've always trusted you" she sighed and looked at me. "I've always thought you're more intelligent that your uncle gave you credit for. You were the only whose feets were on earth, but apparently, they're not anymore."
"I-I'm sorry." Again he couldn't look at her anymore, not after knowing her true intentions all along. "I've always thought you believed me an hopeless idiot all along."
Frowning she sat back down across from he and placed her hand over his shoulder "I can't say i blame you for thinking the worst of me, I haven't given you reason to think otherwise back then." She squeezed softly at his shoulder to get his attention, their eyes finally meeting again "I just want you to know that I do trust you, Donald. probably more than Scrooge, and definitely more than Della"
His eyes widened "Is that so?"
"Yes, Donald" her eyes shown with emotion he hadn't seen before on her, she was always strong people, Not the emotional type, and with that he knew she wanted him to believe her, needed him to believe in her words, but... could he?
"I get you don't trust me, but I just don't know WHY you don't trust me" She got up again and walked up to the door "good evening, Donald"
"With my life" he whispered behind her.
"Excuse me?" She stops, but doesn't turn.
"I DO trust you with my life, Mrs Beakley." He admits " I know if something happens to me, you will help uncle Scrooge take care of the boys, you'd keep them safe."
Beakley still didn't turn, but he could tell she'd taken seriously what he had just said. "However... you must understand there's things I can't tell, not because I don't trust you, but because not only for your own good, but also my family's."
"Donald... what is going on?"
"I wish I knew."
"Me too."
"Beakley, thank you for everything." His voice was quiet, full of sincerity mixed with sadness that it made her breathless, a sudden chill on her stomach.
"You're welcome." she felt hope that there was more to say, that maybe given the time he will tell her what's going on, and it made her smile through teary eyes. Because unlike Della, Donald think not twice but thrice before doing something dangerous, before taking life changing decisions.
"See you tomorrow, Donald."
With that she stepped out of her own rooms and after a quick glance back to him, disappeared around down the corridor. He stood there, alone in her room painfully releasing the breath he'd unconsciously been holding inside him along with a single tear, Donald stepped out of her room and closed the door, his heart hammering madly in his chest. "I'm helpless"
End of chapter one.
Notes: Tempest, commander Bloom and Fitzroy are characters that feature in the "Duck avenger" comics.