DISCLAIMER: I do not own any of these characters with the exception of Kumi Yuy and Sette Devion.
This goes out to all of my friends and supporters: Snodin, Traci, Sam, Beekay, Ruby, Mylia, Ryla, GREETER 600, D-max, Stormy, Naz, Akuma, Kai, Enigma, Lily, Kit, Toynit, my entire 1x2x1 family and everyone who reads and enjoys this fic. *tackle glomps*
Gundam Wing: The Second Chapter
Episode 47: Dance With Destiny
by SkyLark
(Intro to 'White Reflection' begins)
[mitsumekaesu hitomi ni
egaite harukana]
The sun rose over Gettysburg and spread over the lush grounds with its rays. Soon, it reached the safe house where the occupants slept. The light poured into each room, finding the surroundings within empty already.
The front door of the cabin opened as each of the Gundam pilots ran to their cars and motorcycles, each wearing loose workout attire as they began another full day of preparing themselves for the next fight. Some taking their vehicles and others running on foot, they all split and sped off their separate ways through the countryside.
[kanashimi [kanji: zetsubou] mo itami [kanji: kizuato, shoukon]
mo furikiru you ni habataku]
Delapan and Wufei began their day with mountain climbing some of the ranges that fell miles from the safe house, climbing opposite sides in an attempt to see who would reach the top first as they used their equipment. The Chinese pilot was covered in sweat and found himself just inches from the top as he smiled when he looked up.
Taking hold of the cliff's edge, he began to pull himself up when a few rocks sifted under his feet. As he began to fall back, a hand grabbed the pilot's wrist as a second wrapped tightly around it. Wufei looked up with wide eyes to see Delapan as she smiled down to him. The raven-haired pilot smiled brightly to Catherine in relief and pride that she beat him to the top. With a relieved smile of her own, Delapan pulled the raven-haired pilot to safety at the mountain's top. Panting and sweating all over, they lowered themselves onto their backs, looking to the clear sky as they relaxed.
[anata ga kureta tsubasa [kanji: yuuki] wo kono mune ni hirogete...]
Noin, Milliardo, Derek and Sally had since returned to Pulsar. Reuniting with Lady Une and Lieutenant Keiser in the control room, they went right back to work in search of the remainder of the OZ organization. Immediately taking files within their possession, Derek and Sally went to their stations. Marimaya entered the room with Mirando in her lap as she smiled warmly to the Preventers. Both Noin and Milliardo beamed as they held their child again. Their son laughed and clapped before wrapping his arms around them.
[aa kakegaenai ai no kodou [kanji: kagayaki, kirameki] wo
setsunaku kuruoshiku kanjiteitai]
Sette and Trowa jogged through the woods that surrounded the entire area. Running through every stream and obstacle, the two pilots worked on their duration. The countless hills and trees provided more than enough of a challenge in their run. Not holding back on their acrobatic skills, both the tomboy and the European pilot went on to flip, spin and jump past every obstruction. Neither of them paused in their efforts for a moment. Occasionally, they would pass a warm smile to their comrade in admiration of their consistency.
Kumi and Quatre reached a large waterfall that they found not long after their return to the Earth. Using the cliffs and their bathing suits, the pilots dove from the tall cliffs as they worked on their flexibility to make beautiful movements before entering the deep river below. After each dive, they would swim to the bank and quickly return to the waterfall's peek again.
[atsuku yume [kanji: risou] wo kasanete
ayamachiosorezu ni motomeau seishun!!]
The furthest from any of their friends or the safe house, Heero and Duo wore their angel and demon wings as they tested their aerial limits. Not bothering to wear the body armor that their modifications provided, the pilots were much lighter and faster in their flight. Together, they shot past trees, through waterfalls, around cliffs of mountains and freefell without ever becoming shaken. Their pace only increased at they continued to soar higher and with more ease every time.
[mitsumekaesu hitomi ni
egaite harukana] ]
A few days later, Zes returned to the hanger of the cabin to be greeted warmly by her friends. The Queen of the World began discussing everything that she and Brian had learned over the last week while they met with their Chief Advisors. As they made their way back upstairs together, Zes could feel the babies within her kick as she smiled warmly and rubbed her stomach.
[afuredasu omoi wo suhada de sotto tsutaeru
yasashiku nareru tsuyosa [kanji: junsuisa] wo dakishimeru mitai ni...]
All of the pilots were at a large lake where they swam regularly. Heero, Sette, Trowa, Delapan and Quatre were racing one another as they took their lanes and lapped the ends of the wide swimming hole. At the end of each lane, Duo, Zes, Kumi and Wufei watched to see who would make it back first as they stayed close to the water's edge. With timers in hand, they leaned forward as the swimmers made their way back. It was close between all of them as their partners cheered them on from where they stood.
By the narrowest of margins of margins, Heero was the first to touch the lake. Without warning, the Wing pilot sneered as he quickly jumped from the water to pull Duo back in with him. The other swimmers followed their comrade's actions and pulled the remaining, dry pilots in with them as well. Instantly, they all laughed and attacked each with splashes and dunks.
hageshiku yureugoku jidai [kanji: hibi] wo
kedakaku shinayaka ni koeteikitai]
With their mountain bikes, Duo, Sette, Quatre and Delapan rode through the rugged terrain of the countryside. Using dips and small cliffs as ramps, they would be airborne as they rode quickly and wildly. Even with their stunts and dives, they would never fall from their bikes as they continued to increase their pace, up and downhill.
[yurushiaeru shinjitsu
kuchizuke kawashitara mou nani mo iranai!!]
Heero and Kumi were working with the exercise equipment that the Preventers had provided for the safe house. In only their boxers and for Kumi, a sports bra, they were strapped with sensors as they continued their intense training. The Wing pilot was running on one of the treadmills as his cousin lifted weights at the bench press. They were both coated in sweat, but never took any notice to anything as they concentrated on their exercise.
Duo and Trowa were working together in the room that the pilots had transformed into a large gym. Looking to the readings of their lovers as they worked out, the two pilots watched as their energy levels increased rapidly. As they made their reports, the tall pilot pointed out the vibrating pulse waves of the 'Perfect Soldiers.' Despite the fact that they were using different equipment, Heero and Kumi's energy and strength levels always remained the same. The American and European pilots smiled in awe to each other before returning their glances to their lovers.
[akiramenai jounetsu
shinjite tsuranuku [kanji: tatakau]]
Delapan was drinking from a water bottle as she and Sette took a breather before returning to their gymnastics. After drying her face with a white towel, the tomboy smiled wickedly to herself as she looked to the backside of her red-haired comrade. Spinning her towel into a tight string, the young queen whipped Catherine's rear sharply.
Dropping her water bottle, Delapan's hands instantly covered where she was hit as she gave a death glare to Sette. The tomboy almost couldn't stand from laughing so hard. She didn't have a moment to really enjoy the moment before Delapan was chasing her through the countryside.
(Music Bridge)
The Gundam pilots engaged themselves in a round of basketball as they played on the court just beside the safe house. Taking possession of the ball, Duo made his way down the court, managing to avoid the blocks from the comrades on the opposite team. Delapan was just about to seize the ball when the American tossed it to Sette. The tomboy danced around Wufei as she made her way closer to her team's basket.
The Chinese pilot was so close to capturing the sphere when the young woman passed the ball back to Duo. Instantly, The braided pilot found that Heero was open as he shot the ball to him. The Wing pilot shot the ball from behind the three-point line. The ball bounced from the ring, however. Quickly, Kumi leapt from where she was positioned just under the hoop. Recapturing the ball, the silver-haired pilot dunked it into the basket, hanging from the rim for a brief moment. Quatre, Delapa, Wufei and Trowa laughed as they applauded their celebrating friends along with Zes, who watched from the stands, before returning to the game.
Later that afternoon, the pilots were washing their Gundams as they lied on their backs outside, away from any detection. Using hoses and buckets of sudsy water, they wiped down their suits until they sparkled under the bright sun. It wasn't before long when Duo snuck from behind Wing Zero and nailed Heero with a soaked sponge. The 'Perfect Soldier' laughed and tossed the sponge he had been using back at his braided lover. Their friends soon got involved as hey drenched each other in a huge water fight as they sprayed their hoses and dumped their buckets on each other.
[atsuku yume [kanji: risou] wo kasanete
ayamachiosorezu ni motomeau seishun!!]
Wufei and Quatre had taken their Gundams to a deserted test site in as they made themselves more familiar with their suits' newest modifications. Nataku with its Samauri sword and Sand Rock with its missile launchers, the two pilots knocked any and every target to the ground with speed and marksmanship. Before long, the buildings and targets were noting but smoking rubble before the Gundam suits as they stood tall in the midst of the destruction. In their monitors, Wufei and Quatre gave each other satisfied smiles and nods.
[mitsumekaesu hitomi ni
egaite harukana]
As the 'Perfect Soldiers' concluded another workout in the gym and wiped themselves dry with the towels. Trowa and Duo smiled to them and waved before leaving the room after having monitored the pair. Those smiles and waves were returned as Heero and Kumi remained to catch their breath. The Wing pilot took a deep breath and sat at one of the benches as he closed his eyes, taking his time to unwind better.
Kumi gently ran a hand through her cousin's sweat-covered hair, bringing him to look up to her. The silver-haired pilot smiled and revealed a small, black-velvet box that she had been hiding. Her cousin's twin Prussian eyes widened and she tossed the package to him. Heero caught the box with ease and quickly opened it. A wide smile crossed the shocked pilot's face as he jumped up to kiss Kumi's cheek fiercely before pulling her into a tight hug. Excalibur's pilot closed her eyes as one of the brightest smiles she ever allowed herself made its mark on her expression, returning the tight embrace.
[atsuku yume [kanji: risou] wo kasanete
ayamachiosorezu ni motomeau seishun!!]
Lady Une and Keiser spoke with the Foreign Minister of a Colony as his image was displayed on the laptop of the Lieutenant. Receiving word of another Flare Sphere attack, the Preventers frowned to each other before signing off with the Representative. Closing the laptop, Lady Une lowered her head with a saddened expression. Keiser rested a supportive hand on her shoulder. Une squeezed it in appreciation before rising. Together, she and the Lieutenant made their way back to the control room.
[mitsumekaesu hitomi ni
egaite harukana]
The sun was beginning to set on yet another day of working out and preparation over Gettysburg. The Gundam pilots made their way back from the woods and hidden paths as they regrouped before the porch of the safe house. Even after all of their exercising, not one looked completely worn out as they reentered their 'home.' The door soon closed behind them, locking out the war for the night until the sun rose again.
(Song Ends)
* * * * * *
Narrator: With OZ's methods hurting the Gundam pilots from far away, the organization reduced themselves to attacking Colonies in the night by raining Flare Spheres on them. With no way of knowing when the next attack would be or when it would take place, all that the Preventers could do was bring supplies and much needed support to those in need after these air strikes. The Gundam pilots made it their responsibility to see that the shipment of these necessities reached their destinations safely.
Taking turns from day-to-day, the pilots would spend each night after their deliveries on a Preventer craft before returning to their safe house on the Earth. While they wished there was more they could do in effort to help those who had been hit by the Flare Sphere attacks, they knew that this was all they could offer. Sette Devion, Quatre Winner, Trowa Barton and Zes Peacecraft were the latest delivers. They took to the stars with the relief that they would take them throughout the Colonies that needed help the most.
* * * * * *
In the hanger beneath the pilots' safe house, Wing Zero and Excalibur lied on their backs, as far from the stairs that led to the ground level as possible. Heero and Kumi had been working on their suits for over an hour, just to see that everything was in place. Using blowtorches, they sealed the patches of Gundmimum that had been opened to have a better look inside. Both pilots wore their protective gloves and masks to shield off the sparks that flew around them. While the day had been a long one with their suits, it was reassuring for the 'Perfect Soldiers' in seeing that all of the Gundams had been successfully modified.
Finishing his work first, Heero silenced the tool in his hands and removed the mask and gloves. Wiping a bit of the sweat and dirt from his face, the Japanese pilot sat on the floor with his back to Wing Zero. Taking a long sip from the bottles water that he brought with him, he watched as his cousin continued to work on Excalibur. Kumi soon finished her task as she removed her protective gear once the blowtorch was lied to rest. Lowering herself to the ground, the silver-haired pilot began putting away all of the equipment that covered the ground. Heero rose and helped her clear the area.
As they finished up, Kumi looked to her cousin with uncertainty that he instantly noticed. Heero asked gently, in concern, "What is it?" The silver-haired pilot sighed deeply and lowered her head as she answered, "I need you to promise me something." Without hesitating, her cousin nodded, "Anything." Looking back into the Wing pilot's eyes, she stated, "I want you to promise me that you'll keep Trowa away from Demetris when we meet with him again." Heero's eyes widened for a moment. Kumi continued as she deadpanned, "We all know that he's the last of OZ's Gundam pilots. It's only be a matter of time before he'll make his next move."
Seeing the hesitance in her cousin, Kumi stated urgency in her voice, "If you were in my shoes, and Duo was is Trowa's-" Heero sighed deeply and nodded, "Alright... I promise that I'll do what I can to hold Trowa back." Excalibur's pilot smiled as she threw her arms around his neck to hug him tightly. Heero returned the embrace just as tightly as he heard his partner whisper, "Thank you, Heero." The Wing pilot closed his eyes and nodded silently.
Delapan walked past Wing Zero as she searched for the 'Perfect Soldiers.' Seeing the two embracing, she gasped quietly. Heero and Kumi lowered their arms as they looked to the redhead. Catherine bit her lip before saying gently, "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to interrupt." Heero smiled and nodded, "It's alright, Delapan. Were you able to contact Pulsar?" The young woman smiled and nodded, "I just spoke to Lady Une. Everyone reached their carriers safely." There wasn't any mistaking Kumi's relief as she sighed deeply and smiled, "Thank you, Delapan." The redhead winked, "I'll leave the two of you alone now." She left quickly. Heero chuckled deeply and wrapped his arm around Kumi's shoulder, smiling, "Come on. It's getting late." The two pilots walked from the hanger, finally able to relax now that they knew their comrades were safe.
* * * * * *
On the carrier where he would spend the night, Trowa gave his words of appreciation to the Commander of the ship as he walked to his quarters for the evening. Stepping into his dark room, the tall pilot stretched and yawned as he felt the strains of the long journey that he just returned from catching up with him.
The door had just closed behind him when a tall figure from the shadows suddenly grabbed the young man from behind, stifling a sharp cry from him as a long hand covered his mouth quickly. Thrown upon the bed at great force, Trowa did all he could to fight off the strong arms that had held him tightly, growling loudly as he did. In the haze of confusion, Trowa looked to the security switch just beyond his bed. With the dim moonlight that pierced through his window, he could see that the wires had been cut.
Unable to free his arms, he did the only thing he could and pulled his head back to bite down hard on the hand that covered his mouth. The Gundam pilot's teeth cut through the skin, drawing blood quickly while no cry came from the intruder. The large attacker spun Trowa onto his back, removing his hand from his mouth but not allowing the young man a moment to cry out before he threw a swift punch into the side of his face. Trowa fell back on the mattress unconscious. The tall shadow looked down on the pilot for a moment, chuckling deeply.
* * * * * *
Only hours later, the control room of Pulsar was filled with activity as the Preventers there worked frantically after receiving word of the European pilot's disappearance. Being the first ones to reach the craft, Sette, Quatre and Zes filled Heero, Duo, Wufei and Delapan in on what happened as they stood in the back of the room. Catherine's eyes widened as she covered her mouth, listening to her comrades over the noises around them. Derek wrapped his arms around his girlfriend to support her as she fought her fears of the worst having happened to her brother. The other pilots looked to each other in disbelief mixed with great concern.
Sally Poe, Lady Une and Lieutenant Keiser made their way to the pilots along with Marimaya and Mirando as they offered each other as much comfort as possible. Duo looked to the head of the Preventers as he said quietly, his voice almost lost in the sounds of the computers and soldiers that worked all around, "Thank you for getting a hold of us so quickly." Lady Une continued to frown as she nodded, "We'll get Trowa back somehow." The braided pilot nodded back, though he still couldn't help but have the sick feeling in his stomach.
Kumi ran into the control room in the midst of the confusion as she made her way towards her comrades. Heero spotted her as she was close to where they were gathered. Over the commotion of the soldiers speaking amongst themselves, the Wing pilot took hold of the silver-haired pilot's wrists, he pulled her toward him until they were chest-to-chest. Leaning forward, Heero spoke into the other pilot's ear. "Demetris captured Trowa." Kumi's eyes widened as these words sunk in. A small whimper left her as she suddenly felt her knees begin to give out. Her cousin squeezed her wrists to let her know that she wasn't alone. That simple gesture was enough to keep Kumi on her feet. Heero pulled back just enough for their matching eyes to stare into one another.
It was the first time that Kumi was ever openly venerable since Matt's death. Even then, it was nothing like this. Heero's remained the firm, unshakable soldier as he never broke his gaze. "H-how?" was all that Kumi finally managed to ask quietly. Heero answered, "Three OZ soldiers disguised themselves as Preventers on the craft that Trowa was to spend the night on. They helped Demetris get in and get out with him. Milliardo and Noin are on their way to see the spies as we speak. They'll find out what happened and where Trowa was taken." His partner took a deep breath and nodded.
Where the other pilots gathered, Zes looked to her friends and asked quietly, "How long do you think that Demetris will keep Trowa-" The young queen couldn't finish her sentence, unable to imaging the tall pilot being killed at the hands of that monster. Wufei stood beside his wife with his arms crossed he answered with certainty in his voice, "He won't kill Trowa... Not now, at least." Quatre swallowed hard at this as he turned to the Chinese pilot. "I'm afraid to ask what makes you so sure of that," he said in a small voice. Wufei motioned his head in the direction where Kumi and Heero were standing a few feet away. "Fishermen that use live bait have better chances at making their catch than those who don't."
Sette bit her lip than nodded, "Wufei's right... Demetris has been planning this for a long time now." Looking to where her long-time partner was standing, she said quietly, "He won't kill Trowa until he has the both of them." Delapan growled deeply while Derek continued to hold her, "Kumi will get him back... I can't wait until she finally kills him."
The tomboy shook her head, "It won't be that easy. Demetris knows all her tactics. While she knows all of his, she still isn't nearly as strong." Quatre sighed deeply, "And with that Gundamimum heart, he's still practically immortal." Everyone became quiet as they saw the 'Perfect Soldiers' walking back to them. Heero informed them, "We'll be waiting in the hanger until we hear from Milliardo and Noin." The pilots made their way to their Gundams, staying close together for moral support.
* * * * * *
On the ship where the three OZ spies had been captured, the General of the craft stood behind the double-sided glass that spied in on the prisoners as they spoke amongst one another at a round table in the room next door. The young woman sighed deeply as she shook her head to herself, "Those bastards will never break. A large part of OZ's training involves making their soldiers ready for interrogations such as this. My best men have been at them for hours and they still haven't gotten anything out of them." Milliardo walked to the glass and looked to the smug young men as they continued to laugh even in their situation. As he continued to watch them, he stated, "I think that we'll be able to fix that." The blonde General smiled and nodded, "That's why I had the two of you sent here to take over." Walking to the door, she said, "I'll introduce you."
The General entered the interview room as she announced, "Your new interrogators have arrived." One of the three soldiers sneered as he replied, "Not like you'll have any more luck getting us to talk." One of his friends chuckled with a smug grin, "That Barton kid will be dead before you come close to finding him." The young woman shrugged, "We'll see about that." Walking to the door, she allowed her fellow Preventers to take control as she stepped out.
Noin entered the room as the three spies lost their look of confidence instantly. When Milliardo entered, that hint of concern changed into obvious fear in knowing who the two pilots were. Fire glared to the prisoners along with her husband as they crossed their arms. The frightened pilots never took their eyes from the Preventers as the color in their faces faded. Fire sneered, "Now we can do this the easy way... or the hard way."
* * * * * *
On Colony E193, OZ had made a home of one of the largest bases to ever exist. A city all its own, the large buildings and plants that made up the base stretched for miles. Even with its great size, it was virtually invisible thanks to the peeks that surrounded them. Inside, there was an army of thousands that consisted mostly of clones that had been sent there specifically for this morning. The stillness of the plant was broken when every siren suddenly rang out and echoed throughout the area when the sky seemed to rain metal.
The Gundam suits, including Rampage and Euphoria fell from the heavens straight for their target. As they watched their enemies come to greet them in their mobile suits, Derek called to his friends from his Taurus suit, "The base has an endless supply of power since it transfers its electricity from the river across the way." Milliardo informed his friends, "We only need a handful to reach the nerve center to find Trowa." Already knowing this, Kumi's eyes narrowed as she pushed forward on her controls. The Preventers that came to the aid of their friends were prepared when they were face-to-face with the OZ soldiers who were determined to defend their base.
Mason flew with Excalibur as their pilots worked with one another to break through the initial wave of pilots that stood in their way. Before long, they had a clear visual of the largest of all the buildings belonging to the base as it rested perfectly in the center of the large city below. Sette's image appeared on the 'Perfect Soldier's' screen as she stated, "I'll take the east end." Kumi nodded once as she deadpanned, "Understood." At this, the two pilots split and reached the opposite ends of the facility. Within moments, their suits were breaking through the building as their friends continued to battle in the skies.
* * * * * *
The Gundam pilots continued to shoot around the base, taking out everything with them that they could. Looking to her monitors, the Queen of the World noticed that she and her comrades were beginning to bunch up, not realizing that the OZ soldiers were pushing them back as they continued to struggle. Zes turned as she called to Quatre, "They're pushing us as close together as they can. We have to try and spread out more, otherwise they'll never be thinned out." The Arabian nodded, "Just be sure that you don't get pulled into an ambush." Together, they pushed their way through the mobile suits in effort to avoid being outnumbered.
* * * * * *
Sette broke through the her end of the base, hammering her way through every wall and destroying any challenger that managed to reach her in one piece. As she reached the end of the long hall she was flying through, the tomboy found herself in the center of the entire facility. Looking to the images of the area on her screen, the young queen told herself with narrowed eyes, "This place is a maze..." As she continued to look to her surroundings, Sette noticed the main lighting overhead begin to flicker the slightest bit.
A sharp gasp left Sette as she shouted, "That's it!" Typing some commands into her system, the blue-haired pilot's eyes narrowed as she noted to herself, "The main power supply of this facility has been transferring itself to two rooms..." Centering on one of those locations, she stated, "As expected, one of those is the control room... And the other is where they would be torturing prisoners." She watched as a bull's eye appeared with its center over the exact room that shared the transfer of energy. "THERE HE IS!" Sette shouted as she shot off in the direction of the room she picked up.
It wasn't long before the tomboy reached a massive door that was sheets upon sheet of Gundamimum thick. A sneer crossed the pilot's lips as she chuckled deeply, "Well, Mase, Father always said to be polite and knock before entering." Raising her laser mallet over head, the tomboy began hitting away at the door. Only a few hits were enough to make an opening that the young queen could pull apart and widen. Flying inside the moment she was able, Sette looked to her monitors to see that the enormous cell had been filled with OZ mobile suits. Every gun was aimed at Mason.
Sette growled deeply, unshaken by the fact that she was grossly outnumbered. Initiating the fight, the young woman went right into the fray. Just as it was becoming clear that Mason was in great danger of being overcome, Heero and Duo flew in from the hole that Sette had made. Thanks to their wings and body armor, following the young queen through the base wasn't a challenge the moment they realized that she could have been in trouble. Together, the three pilots fought off the soldiers. Finally, a handful of the OZ pilots began to retreat.
Mason was the first to be relieved of the struggle as Sette panted and tried to regain her composure while Heero and Duo continued to take down those OZ soldiers who remained. As she looked to the deserted end of the room, she noticed a long, silver table where a young man lied on his back, strapped to the hard surface with sensors strapped to his forehead and bare chest. The white flood lights that beamed down on hi from high above made room for no question of the prisoner's identity. Sette cried, "TROWA!" Quickly, she flew over to the table and opened her cockpit the moment that Mason landed.
Once she was on the ground, the tomboy jumped onto table and looked down with concerned eyes to her unconscious friend. Lowering her ear to rest on the tall pilot's chest, she bit her lip in search of a heartbeat. With a small smile, Sette sighed in relief as she looked to Trowa. "Just as stubborn as Kumi," she chuckled deeply. She hurried to remove the sensors that had been taped to her comrade. Removing a dagger from its sheath against her ankle, Sette said quietly, "Just hand in there, Trowa. I'll have you out in a second." The sounds of the fight around her continued as she began to cut through the thick, leather straps that held the tall pilot against the flat surface.
* * * * * *
Excalibur was making its way through the building as it soared through the facility without any difficulty. Making her way through one floor to the next, Kumi shot down every mobile suit that faced her and soon reached the center of the entire base. Looking to her monitors, the silver-haired pilot located the thick, metal wall separating her from the heart of the facility that created and transferred its power from the manmade river miles away.
Just as Kumi broke inside, the 'Perfect Soldier' found that the very room that should have been the most guarded was barren of any soldiers. The empty space was eerie as the only thing present was the equipment of the nerve center. The engines and generators of the plant went on turning as they hissed and hummed, generating electricity from the river. The young pilot neared the center of the room where the largest of the round engines stood. It was when she was just feet from that spot when a beam came from above the machine, heading straight for the winged suit.
Kumi just managed to avoid the beam as she brought her suit to fly backwards. When the beam crashed through the ground where she once was, the silver-haired pilot watched the blue, ram-headed Gundam of her greatest foe as it landed with a deafening crash before her. The silver-haired pilot's Prussian eyes widened initially, but quickly narrowed into thin, threatening slits as she finally gazed upon her enemy. At this Demetris sneered, "I've been waiting a long time for this." Kumi gave a sharp, "Humph," with a cocky sneer to match. Instantly, the two Gundams charged each other as their pilots were determined to settle their long, bitter rivalry once and for all.
After a long exchange of blows back and forth, Capricorn charged head-first, nailing Excalibur clean in the chest with its round horns while its arms wrapped around the winged suit. The two Gundams flew straight through the metal and brick walls that were directly behind Unit 10. Kumi growled loudly as she held onto her controls, unable to fight off her opponent as he continued to hurl her backwards with him. Managing to keep herself from jolting completely from her seat, the silver-haired pilot glared to her monitors as she looked to the blue Gundam that held her. Finally, the two pilots were out of the facility as they penetrated the last wall of steel.
Taking to the air after releasing Excalibur, Demetris laughed, "What's wrong, Kumi? You should have seen that one coming!" The "Perfect Soldier' hissed, "Keep laughing you bastard!" At this, she charged the ram Gundam with all the force she had, pushing forward on her handgrips. The jagged-edge Gundamimum sword of Capricorn met with the laser sword of its opponent. Driven by rage and hatred that had grown for years, the two pilots exchanged blows and shots from every direction. Their shouts and cries could be heard over every transmitter as they battled each other feverishly.
From their place in the sky, Milliardo and Noin watched their screens as they continued to hold off the OZ soldiers that swarmed around them. Looking to the fight between the two rivals, they couldn't help but lose themselves in the image of the two Gundams. Not in all of their experience had them ever seen such a heated struggle between two pilots. Every blow and block was matched and exceeded with the next. Breathlessly, Noin whispered as she continued to watch with wide eyes, "I-it's like the fight that you and Heero fought at the end of the Eve Wars with Wing Zero and Epion." Milliardo's own eyes remained focused on the battle as he replied quietly, "This fight is far worse than ours ever could have been."
Kumi landed a swift punch across the blue Gundam as she shouted and continued to unleash a string of hits to her challenger. Demetris soon recovered and slashed at Excalibur, slicing through the right arm until it's point stabbed through the other end. The silver-haired pilot shouted, "K'SO!" Taking hold of the metal blade with her Gundam's left hand, she pulled Excalibur's arm free. Not wasting a moment, Kumi stabbed through Capricorn's left shoulder. Demetris's eyes burned with fury as he removed the weapon.
Again, the two struggled as they wrestled and attacked every which way they could. Excalibur was the first to fall on its back after a forceful blow by the ram's horns. Kumi looked up to her scanners with blood running down the left ride of her face and watched as Capricorn was just a few feet from crushing her as it's hoofed feet fell upon her. Rolling out of the way just in time, the silver-haired pilot pulled her Gundam back to its feet as she instantly returned to blocking the slashes and hits that Demetris continued to rain upon her.
The skies began to grow dark with thick clouds and the wind began to howl as it grew. While not a drop fell from the sky, there was a bolt of lightning that lit everything around for miles as it pierced from the heavens. Still making their stand, Quatre, Zes, Delapan and Wufei continued to plow though the OZ soldiers that refused to surrender their base. Seeing that the weather was becoming threatening, Wufei warned his comrades, "If any soldiers manage to break away, let them go. They know this area better than we do."
Demetris and Kumi went on in their brutal war as they showed no regard for their own well being, as long as it meant that their greatest opponent was destroyed in the process. After a long duel with their suits, the pilots were still at a stalemate. Capricorn suddenly flew backwards in the midst of an exchange of blows. Landing several feet before Excalibur, Demetris hissed, "If we end this, be end this without the aid of our Gundams. That also goes for those wings of yours." Kumi sneered in reply, "I wouldn't have it any other way." The tall man sneered, "I know just the place." Without any further discussion, Capricorn's shot off as great speed as Kumi watched before following, just as quickly.
* * * * * *
Trowa woke with a deep moan as he looked up to find Duo, Heero and Sette gathered around him. While his body ached all over, the tall pilot only growled quietly, trying to sit up. Duo quickly placed his hands on the injured pilot's shoulders and shook his head, "Forget it, Trowa. You're not going anywhere." The tall pilot shouted, "Damn it! Kumi's in danger and you want me to stay here!?!" Sette held Trowa's arms down as she yelled back, "This is for your own good! If Demetris sees you again, he'll kill you!"
Looking up to the Wing pilot, Trowa frowned and fought tears as he said quietly, "Heero, please... You can't keep me here like this." The Japanese pilot shook his head as he answered, "Sorry, Trowa. But if anything happened to you, it will hurt Kumi worse than anything Demetris could put her through. I'm looking out for her by keeping you safe." The tall pilot's eyes narrowed as he growled deeply, "And if he kills her?" Heero replied sadly, "She'll die knowing you're alive."
At this, Trowa gasped as his eyes widened. He suddenly realized... "She made you promise to keep me away!" he shouted. The three pilots worked even harder in keeping their friend down as he tried to get up with more force. Sette made her comrade to look at her as she held onto his chin and said sternly, "Listen to me. That monster has had you targeted since the day you pushed Kumi out of his path when they came close to flying into one another a year ago. If she lost you the same way she lost Matt, it will kill her!"
Duo sighed deeply, "Come on, man! I know you want to be there for her, but Demetris is out for you first, and you know it! She loves you... Why else would she make Heero promise to keep you away from him?" Trowa growled deeply, "I appreciate the fact that you all want to help, but this is something that is between the three of us, not just Kumi and Demetris."
Quatre's voice patched into Heero and Duo's helmets as he called, "Everyone, we need you out here. There are too many soldiers to handle on our own." Heero nodded and replied, "We're coming, Quatre." Looking to his tall comrade, he stated clearly, "That includes you." Trowa lowered his head, but nodded before rising. The pilots ran to their suits and Heero and Duo shot off into the sky, flying through the hole in the ceiling that they had made just moments ago. Mason and Heavy Arms were right behind them.
* * * * * *
More than fifteen miles from where the base was, the fields were barren of any trees, mountains or life as all that could be seen were stretches of boulders, cliffs and rough terrain. It wasn't far from the river that produced the electric energy for the incredible plant of the OZ organization. Capricorn touched down first. The blue Gundam's hatch opened as Demetris stepped out into the windy air. His black locks blew with the wind as he lowered himself to the ground, watching the sky as he waited. The wait wasn't a long one before Excalibur landed several feet away. Kumi left her suit wearing her purple cape over the black attire she always had. As the Japanese pilot walked towards the tall man, her cape and long, silver hair were blew behind her.
Demetris chuckled deeply beneath the dark sky as he removed a long blade from the sheath that fell at his right side. The blade was thin where the man held it, but it widened as it neared the tip into a massive weapon. Kumi removed her own sword, one shaped like a lightning bolt. Holding the blade in her left hand, her right hand was lifted as it took one quick tug at the clip that held her hooded cape in place. At the removal of the clasp, the purple cloak flew off of the pilot with the wind, landing just to her side. For a moment, the soldiers simple stared at their prey, eyes locked. The pilots never broke their gazes from one another as they stalked to their opponent. Finally tired of taking their time, the challengers ran to each other, shouting loudly and raising their blades over head.
The initial blows, nothing hit their target as each shot was blocked by the sword. The wind continued to increase as the experienced warriors continued to fight each other with all of the intensity within them. Finally, they began breaking past their challenger's blocks, scratching and nicking at their foe. Just as Kumi was beginning to have a break in getting through Demetris's defenses, the silver-haired pilot was kicked in the face, never having a chance to see the blow coming. The force of the kick was enough to sent the pilot flying backwards. Unable to prevent herself from sliding across the ground, Kumi lost her balance and rolled down a steep hill of jagged rock behind her, crying out as she fell. Demetris stood at the edge of the steep hill as he laughed madly at the sight.
Demetrismade his way down the jagged hill, taking his time to enjoy the moment. Kumi was just beginning to fight her way onto her feet again when he reached her. The giant bent down and gripped her silver hair in a tight fist before she couldsee him coming. Kumi gasped loudly when her enemy pulled her up by her ponytail, soon screaming in pain by the swift tug. The tall man spun the young woman once around him before hurling her body into a slate of stone. The 'Perfect Soldier' rolled along the rocky earth following the force of the slam. When she stopped, Kumi was lying on her stomach , right cheek cut and bleeding against the solid ground as she struggled to open her eyes, moaning in agony.
The giant that continued to dominate the personal fight chuckled deeply to himself as he walked slowly to where he had dropped his sword. Taking the blade with him to his toy, Demetris bent down to wrap his right, thick arm around the other pilot's neck, causing her to gag as he lifted her in that fashion until her head was next to his own. The Prussian eyes of the silver-haired pilot were squeezed shut as she struggled to breathe. Bringing the tip of his sword to fall just beyond his prey's exposed Adam's apple with his free hand, he growled deeply, "I always wondered what it would sound like to make you scream." Kumi's eyes narrowed as she regained her strength with those words.
Taking hold of the large wrist that held her up, the Japanese pilot pushed it quickly enough to catch her aggressor off-guard. Demetris was unable to defend himself as Kumi spun before him, taking possession of his other wrist and slamming the sword in his grasp straight through his right shoulder. Only a loud gasp left the OZ pilot as he felt the metal pierce all the way through.
The young woman landed just before him, coughing and gagging as she fell to her knees, having a hard time catching the breath that had been robbed of her. Even as she continued to cough violently, Kumi managed to stumble back several steps. As she began to breathe freely again, the Gundam pilot watched as Demetris pulled the sword from his body. Pointing the blood-covered weapon to his rival, the tall man shook his head along with the sword. He click his tongue three times and warned, "That wasn't a very nice thing to do." His only response was a deep growl.
* * * * * *
An hour later, the pilots fighting over the base were finally beginning to see the numbers in the OZ forces decreasing. While this was something that they were relieved to see, they couldn't help their concern for Kumi. Duo sliced his way through a handful of mobile suits with his laser scythe while soaring through the battlefield with his demon wings. As he reached his friends, he called, "They're starting to group together more since their defenses are being cut down." From the opposite end of the fight, Noin nodded, "I'm starting to see that here, too."
Trowa shot down anything that moved around him as his narrowed eyes glared to the screens. Trying not to think about what could have been happening to his lover, the tall pilot took out his frustration out on those unfortunate enough to reach him. Just then, he heard Sette's voice ask, "Any sign of Kumi or Demetris?" and his green eyes softened in hopes that someone might know something. Zes was the first to answer, "No...Not even a glimpse." Their friends all gave negative responses as they continued to handle the forces against them. Trowa lowered his head as he closed his eyes and whispered, "Just hold on, love."
* * * * * *
Kumi was now covered in sweat and blood from cuts and bruises all over her body as she panted, looking to Demetris. The tall man laughed loudly. While the he was just as cut and bruised all around, he was not affected in the least. The beast charged the other pilot again. As the two pilots continued to cut and stab each other, it became difficult to tell their blood from one another as they melded on their bodies.
Nearing the edge of the terrain, the pilots could hear and see the river that flowed stories below them. For every mile-and-a-half along the edge of the ground, there was a tall, metal generator shaped as a large cross with a large throw-switch at its base. It was through these devices that the hydroelectricity was created and transferred. The cranes, levers and chained hooks that stood all around the devices were the aids in creating transferring the electricity from the crosses.
The fact that they were so close to the edge of the cliff over the river never phased Demetris or Kumi as they went on in their attacks. Even after fighting in this way for over an hour, they struck and dodged with as much determination as they had when the fight began. Their grunts and shouts echoed in the wind as they danced around each other, managing to cut their enemy in some fashion. The blood loss that she had suffered greatly the last seventy minutes was finally beginning to take its toll on Kumi.
The 'Perfect Soldier' had a deep scar that ran from just above her right temple and went down into a moon-shaped curve down to her chin to just miss her eye. As she and Demetris pulled back for a moment, she panted loudly with her legs spread in an effort to remain standing. The man before her laughed loudly, never feeling even a little tired despite the fact that he was bleeding just as badly as the Japanese pilot. His face had three long, deep scars that ran across from left to right to give the impression that a large animal scratched him.
Seeing that the silver-haired pilot was beginning to wear thin, Demetris wiped just some of the blood that covered his face as he sneered at the young pilot. Still panting, Kumi never lost her death glare as she held up her sword with both hands. Had anyone else been in her shoes, they would have been dead long before now with the abuse she had taken. Her cloths were shredded all around as blood and sweat seeped through the holes. "Not giving up so soon are you?" the Kumi challenged. She growled, "There's still life in me yet."
Demetris licked his lips and replied, "Oh, I'm well aware of that." With a deep growl of his own, the giant charged again to his opponent. Welcoming the assault, Kumi returned every blow for a good amount of the time. However, about ten more minutes into the heated battle, the Japanese pilot began to grow dizzy at the speed that the OZ pilot was moving. It was more than enough for Demetris to take the upper-hand. One powerful blow knocked the sword from Kumi's grasp. Before her weapon even hit the ground, the 'Perfect Soldier' was kicked and punched relentlessly. It wasn't until the last of those blows sent her reeling backwards, landing on her side as she hit the ground.
Amazed at how long his enemy held out, the tall man watched the still figure that lied just feet ahead of him. A soft moan of pain left Kumi as she pushed herself to stand. Once she was on her feet, she looked with heavy-lidded eyes to the tall man. Time stood still and another large drop of blood fell from the scar on her face. Demetris couldn't do anything but look in wonder, unable to imagine how anyone could remain so strong. Just as another bead of crimson dropped, the Prussian eyes of the Gundam pilot closed and a small sigh left her. Finally, exhausted and broken, Kumi fell unconscious before her enemy.
The cold eyes of the OZ pilot widened in disbelief for a moment before they narrowed again. Demetris walked to the fallen pilot and gazed upon her silently for a moment. Kicking the Kumi in the chest, he brought her to roll onto her back. There was no other response from the lifeless body. A sneer crossed the large man's lips as he reveled in knowing that he had defeated his greatest and most worthy challenger after so long.
Looking to the metal cross as it continued to stand tall and on the edge of the cliff just ahead, he eyed the long chains that rested on either side within their levers. Demetris chuckled deeply to himself and collected his sword and that one belonging to his foe. As another bolt of lightning flashed across the dark clouds, the OZ pilot threw the bloody form of his enemy over his shoulder, walking her to the electric conductor. The wind continued to blow strongly as the giant reached the machine. Resting the swords beside him, Demetris removed two long chains from their levers. Once these were in his possession, he brought Kumi's back to rest against the steel.
Stretching the arms of the 'Perfect Soldier' out, Demetris made quick work of tying her wrists to the horizontal line of the cross. Standing back, he looked to the helpless being as her limp body fell forward, held up only by the chains that secured her against the steel. The tall man took possession of the sword shaped like a lightning bolt as he admired it. "Fitting that you would try to kill me with Matt's sword...Only now you'll be the one to die by it." Demetris pressed the tip of the blade just over where the trapped pilot's heart was beating. Pulling the sword back, his eyes narrowed as he said darkly, "Any now, my greatest adversary...I bid you farewell."
Demetris grunted loudly as he thrust the blade forward at great force. Just before the point was about enter Kumi's chest, her right wrist twitched sharply within it's confines to reveal a Gundamimum switchblade that had been concealed under the black bracelet that she wore. As she sliced through the chains that held her wrist, she kicked her feet up with a loud cry, knocking the blade from Demetris. In the blink of an eye, she took hold of the long chain that now fell loose, gripped the end as she whipped the length of the line to wrap around the giant's thick neck, instantly cutting off his air supply. Demetirs gagged loudly both as his hands reached up to remove the chain.
Releasing the other end of the chain, Kumi quickly freed her other wrist with the switchblade as the tall man freed himself from the tight metal ring that strangled him. Grabbing his sword as the Japanese pilot continued to try and break free, Demetris screamed and ran to her with his blade aimed for her own neck. Waiting until the last possible second, Kumi cut the last ring of metal as she fell to the ground. Unable to see this coming, Demetris couldn't pull away in time to prevent his blade from stabbing through the large generator. As he swiftly moved to turn, the monster heard the wheels of the levers spinning as the chains around them clicked loudly as they were pulled by the wheels.
Four large, metal grappling hooks came from behind just as Demetris managed to turn his back to the generator. Wrapping around his chest, legs and arms, the thick chains of the hooks pulled him back forcefully until he crashed into the metal. The hooks wrapped around the cross, unable to be moved. The levers kept turning as they pulled the chains as tightly as they could until they met resistance while the trapped pilot cried out in rage. Unable to fight off the strength of the metal ropes as they continued to hold him back, Demetris's eyes burned with amazing fury. That fury was shot to the sneering Gundam pilot as she watched from a few feet away, by the activation switch.
"Farewell," Kumi deadpanned. At this, she threw the switch and sent the electricity from the water below coursing through the OZ pilot's entire being. Demetris threw his head back as the bolts of energy hit him. The cross began to glow a hot white as the energy increased. While the tall man continued to scream, the Japanese pilot took Matt's sword back into her right hand, fighting the pain that her movements caused. Holding the weapon before her, Kumi took a moment to gain focus. Her eyes then narrowed into thin slits and she ran as fast as her legs could carry her to the cross. Her chase ended just before the spot as she leapt into the air to have a clear shot at her target.
With a loud cry, Kumi plunged the sword into the left side of Demetris's chest, just below his shoulder. The man gasped loudly as he felt the metal enter his skin. Not taking a second to breathe, the 'Perfect Soldier' dragged the half-sheathed sword down with her, making a long and deep slit as blood began to run from the opening. All the while, Demetris continued to scream in agony. Kumi through her right hand into the slit as she pushed it inside the man's body, never becoming shaken or sickened by the feeling as she searched. Growling deeply, she pushed her hand deeper inside until her arm was in nearly to its elbow.
Demetris continued to scream at the top of his lungs, paralyzed by the pain more than the metal grips that pinned him back. The electricity that continued to surge through his body finally reached his heart just as Kumi was about to reach it. Feeing the shocks, the silver-haired pilot never allowed herself to stop as she pushed her arm further inside. Finally, she reached her target as she wrapped her hand around the Gundamimum heart that continued to beat within the giant's chest.
The moment that her hand took hold of the metal, the electric shocks began to run through her own body. Crying out, Kumi grasped onto the heart as tightly as she could, ignoring the pain that this brought. Quickly, the 'Perfect Soldier' lifted her legs up to her chest, bringing her feet to rest over Demetirs's chest as an aid while she pulled back with everything she had. The giant's screams became even louder as the other pilot twisted and ripped his metal heart from its confines.
Finally, Kumi removed the heart entirely, removing it from every part that it had been attached to in the process with one last and swift tug as Demetris fell silent. Falling backwards following the forceful pull, the young pilot landed on her back and looked up to the gruesome form that remained of her greatest enemy. Her blood-dripping hand never released the Gundamimum heart. Demetris's head hung down and forward as the rest of his body slumped within the restraints. With wide eyes, Kumi panted in quick, ragged breaths one in back of the other.
Swallowing hard, the silver-haired pilot slowly got to her feet, never taking her eyes from Demetris's corpse as it remained still on the cross. Turning her attention to the heart that remained in her possession, the 'Perfect Soldier' dropped the metal pump to her feet and raised her sword that its point aimed right for it. Thrusting downward, Kumi stabbed the heart through. As expected, the result was a large blast that shattered the ground before her.
Kumi stepped back as the ground beneath the generator began to crumble at the force that the explosion. It wasn't long before everything collapsed down the side of the rocky cliff. It stopped just inches from the Gundam pilot's feet as she watched through expressionless eyes. From where she stood, Kumi had a clear view of the descent of the OZ pilot's body along with the cross as they crash and sank into the river below, never to be seen again. With that, the long feud between the two pilots was finally over. Stading on the edge of the new cliff, Kumi placed Matt's sword back in the sheath at her side, never breaking her gaze from the river.
Suddenly, there was a massive explosion from the base miles back as it was destroyed, sending great aftershocks that made the ground tremble. The soil beneath Kumi's feet began to crack and give way as she was standing so close to the edge of the cliff. The Japanese pilot gasped loudly just before she ran back to safer ground as quickly as she could. Just as she was about to reach the secured land, everything fell out from under the pilot. Jumping forward, Kumi just managed to grab the edge that remained as she began to collapse.
Hanging hundreds of miles above the river that continued to flow rapidly below, the 'Perfect Soldier' whimpered in pain as she fought desperately to pull herself up. The ground that she held onto with her scarred and blood-covered hands began to crumble at Kumi's efforts. Loosing her grip, the silver-haired pilot's eyes widened as she scratched at the surface that continued to fall apart.
Sliding down several feet to the jagged edge of the cliff that remained, only her right hand managed to take hold of the thin point. Panting and terrified, Kumi let out a small whimper and moan of pain as she tried to pull herself up again onto the last bit of ground that she could take hold of. Again, the Japanese pilot's efforts were too great a strain on the unsteady earth that she dangled from. The pointed ledge fell apart. With a loud scream, she fell backwards and down towards the river.
A hand suddenly grabbed onto the silver-haired pilot's right as it held on tightly. Looking up with her Prussian eyes still wide, Kumi looked up to Trowa as he hung over the edge of the steady ground. Panting, himself, the tall pilot looked with concerned eyes to his lover as he continued to hold her up by her right hand. "Trowa," was all that she could manage to whisper as she looked up to him in disbelief. The tall pilot smiled lovingly as he nodded, "You didn't think that I'd be that easy to keep away did you?" Kumi bit her lip as tears filled her eyes. With a small smile, she gave a sharp, relieved laugh. Trowa extended his other hand to her. Nodding, Kumi raised her left hand and took hold of his.
Trowa pulled the silver-haired pilot to safety as they wrapped their arms tightly around one another. Kumi buried her head in Trowa's chest and sobbed as she began to shake. Looking up to his face, she kissed it several times, whispering brokenly, "I was so worried about you." The European pilot kissed the silver-haired pilot's forehead and held her close again as he whispered back, "I'm fine now that you're alright." Kumi buried her head back in the tall pilot's chest as she continued to cry silently. Wrapping the purple cape around the wounded pilot, Trowa held his love tightly, vowing never to let go as they simply sat in each other's arms in silence. In the distance, the Gundam suits of their friends flew towards them.
* * * * * *
That same night, just as the sun began to set in the clear sky, Capricorn stood in all its glory just beyond the mountains where the OZ base of Colony E193 once was. The silver-haired pilot responsible for the death of its pilot stood on a tall hill a half-mile away. With the exception of her face, nearly all of her exposed skin was bandaged as what remained of her black outfit was still in shreds. The scar on the right side of her face would be a permanent, a constant reminder of the fight she endured.
Looking to the blue Gundam one last time, Kumi pressed a small detonator that she held tightly, bringing the suit to explode instantly. As the smoke rose from the creator that remained, Trowa walked to his lover, wrapping his arms around her waist as he rested his head on her shoulder. "I can't believe it's finally over," the 'Perfect Soldier' whispered breathlessly.
The tall pilot smiled and kissed his partner's temple. His smile soon faded as a thought hit him. "I know that Matt must be proud of you," Trowa said quietly, almost sadly. Turning to her lover, Kumi frowned when she saw the lost expression on her lover's face. Only now was she aware that he must have felt as though he came second in her eyes. Lifting his face until their eyes met, the silver-haired pilot said, "Trowa... what Matt and I had..."
Unsure of how to say what she felt, the 'Perfect Soldier' paused and lowered her head as she closed her eyes. Finally, she whispered, "When I was told that Demetris had captured you... And I thought that I might have lost you... I couldn't breathe... As far as I'm concerned, you've always been my first love." A small gasp left her partner as his eyes widened at the confession. He watched as a small tear rolled down Kumi's cheek and brushed it away gently. Lifting her head, Trowa whispered, "I love you." His lover whispered back, "Ai shiteru."
After a brief pause, Kumi smiled lovingly and said quietly, "Thank you... for catching me." Trowa returned the same smile and nodded, "I promise I'll never let you fall." The two pilots leaned in slowly to share a deep kiss. Trowa wrapped his arms around the his lover and lifted her as she wrapped her arms around his neck, never breaking the kiss.
In the distance, their friends watched along with Sera Makato and Derek, who had taken part in the battle at the mountain base. They all smiled warmly as they gathered together. Heero sighed deeply as he rested his head on Duo's shoulder, hugging him tightly from behind as he said, "You know, you're right...They almost do make most a cute a couple as we do." Duo smiled turned to meet his lover's gaze with his own warm smile still in place. "Almost," they stressed simultaneously as they nodded. They watched with theirs friends as the sweet couple made their way back. Trowa and Kumi returned to them, hand-in-hand. Sette smiled to her oldest comrade, "Ready, boss?" Kumi smiled back and nodded, "Yea... There's nothing more for us here." The others agreed as they all returned to their Gundams.
Zes had just closed the cocoon of her cockpit and turned to her monitors when a large, dark shadow covered the front of her suit. "What!?!" she gasped as she tried to get a shot of what was covering her hatch. Just then, the scanners picked up that it was a large sign that read "BABIES ON BOARD" in huge, bold letters. Relena shouted, "DUO!!!" Sette's voice could be heard chuckling deeply over the transmitters as
Duo replied loudly, "What!?! I'm trying to help you out!" Sette's laughter grew as he continued to grow louder as the braided pilot went on to explain, "You could be in the middle of a fight and everyone against you will stop what they're doing and say, 'WAIT! WE CAN'T SHOOT THEM! THERE ARE BABIES ON BOARD!!!'" By now, Sette hysterically laughing as she howled loudly with laughter. "Thank you, Sette!" Duo smiled as he nodded. "You're welcome, baby! I love ya!" the tomboy laughed.
The others joined in the laughter, including Kumi, taking everyone by surprise. Her sincere, loud laughter continued as everyone else had stopped to listened in awe. When she finished, the silver-haired pilot chuckled deeply, "What's wrong? Haven't you heard a person laughing before?" Her friends comrades warmly at this. Heero nodded, "Alright, everyone. Let's go home." Wing Zero took to the skies first with Excalibur and Deathscythe right behind. The Gundams of their comrades followed in suit as they left the Colony together.
* * * * * *
Lady Une was sleeping in her room on Pulsar just a few nights later when a knock on her door woke her. The head of the Preventers wrapped a robe over her nightgown as she quickly walked to the door. Opening it, the young woman squinted at the bright light of the hallway. Her eyes widened when she saw the Lieutenant standing on the other side. "Jason?" she asked quietly.
Keiser nodded, "Forgive me for waking you, Lady Une." She shook her head and assured him, "It's alright. What is it?" The young man paused then smiled, "In one week, we'll have the exact location of the last OZ stronghold." The brown eyes of his commander widened instantly. When the shock wore off, she sneered, "Tell me everything."
TBC
This goes out to all of my friends and supporters: Snodin, Traci, Sam, Beekay, Ruby, Mylia, Ryla, GREETER 600, D-max, Stormy, Naz, Akuma, Kai, Enigma, Lily, Kit, Toynit, my entire 1x2x1 family and everyone who reads and enjoys this fic. *tackle glomps*
Gundam Wing: The Second Chapter
Episode 47: Dance With Destiny
by SkyLark
(Intro to 'White Reflection' begins)
[mitsumekaesu hitomi ni
egaite harukana]
The sun rose over Gettysburg and spread over the lush grounds with its rays. Soon, it reached the safe house where the occupants slept. The light poured into each room, finding the surroundings within empty already.
The front door of the cabin opened as each of the Gundam pilots ran to their cars and motorcycles, each wearing loose workout attire as they began another full day of preparing themselves for the next fight. Some taking their vehicles and others running on foot, they all split and sped off their separate ways through the countryside.
[kanashimi [kanji: zetsubou] mo itami [kanji: kizuato, shoukon]
mo furikiru you ni habataku]
Delapan and Wufei began their day with mountain climbing some of the ranges that fell miles from the safe house, climbing opposite sides in an attempt to see who would reach the top first as they used their equipment. The Chinese pilot was covered in sweat and found himself just inches from the top as he smiled when he looked up.
Taking hold of the cliff's edge, he began to pull himself up when a few rocks sifted under his feet. As he began to fall back, a hand grabbed the pilot's wrist as a second wrapped tightly around it. Wufei looked up with wide eyes to see Delapan as she smiled down to him. The raven-haired pilot smiled brightly to Catherine in relief and pride that she beat him to the top. With a relieved smile of her own, Delapan pulled the raven-haired pilot to safety at the mountain's top. Panting and sweating all over, they lowered themselves onto their backs, looking to the clear sky as they relaxed.
[anata ga kureta tsubasa [kanji: yuuki] wo kono mune ni hirogete...]
Noin, Milliardo, Derek and Sally had since returned to Pulsar. Reuniting with Lady Une and Lieutenant Keiser in the control room, they went right back to work in search of the remainder of the OZ organization. Immediately taking files within their possession, Derek and Sally went to their stations. Marimaya entered the room with Mirando in her lap as she smiled warmly to the Preventers. Both Noin and Milliardo beamed as they held their child again. Their son laughed and clapped before wrapping his arms around them.
[aa kakegaenai ai no kodou [kanji: kagayaki, kirameki] wo
setsunaku kuruoshiku kanjiteitai]
Sette and Trowa jogged through the woods that surrounded the entire area. Running through every stream and obstacle, the two pilots worked on their duration. The countless hills and trees provided more than enough of a challenge in their run. Not holding back on their acrobatic skills, both the tomboy and the European pilot went on to flip, spin and jump past every obstruction. Neither of them paused in their efforts for a moment. Occasionally, they would pass a warm smile to their comrade in admiration of their consistency.
Kumi and Quatre reached a large waterfall that they found not long after their return to the Earth. Using the cliffs and their bathing suits, the pilots dove from the tall cliffs as they worked on their flexibility to make beautiful movements before entering the deep river below. After each dive, they would swim to the bank and quickly return to the waterfall's peek again.
[atsuku yume [kanji: risou] wo kasanete
ayamachiosorezu ni motomeau seishun!!]
The furthest from any of their friends or the safe house, Heero and Duo wore their angel and demon wings as they tested their aerial limits. Not bothering to wear the body armor that their modifications provided, the pilots were much lighter and faster in their flight. Together, they shot past trees, through waterfalls, around cliffs of mountains and freefell without ever becoming shaken. Their pace only increased at they continued to soar higher and with more ease every time.
[mitsumekaesu hitomi ni
egaite harukana] ]
A few days later, Zes returned to the hanger of the cabin to be greeted warmly by her friends. The Queen of the World began discussing everything that she and Brian had learned over the last week while they met with their Chief Advisors. As they made their way back upstairs together, Zes could feel the babies within her kick as she smiled warmly and rubbed her stomach.
[afuredasu omoi wo suhada de sotto tsutaeru
yasashiku nareru tsuyosa [kanji: junsuisa] wo dakishimeru mitai ni...]
All of the pilots were at a large lake where they swam regularly. Heero, Sette, Trowa, Delapan and Quatre were racing one another as they took their lanes and lapped the ends of the wide swimming hole. At the end of each lane, Duo, Zes, Kumi and Wufei watched to see who would make it back first as they stayed close to the water's edge. With timers in hand, they leaned forward as the swimmers made their way back. It was close between all of them as their partners cheered them on from where they stood.
By the narrowest of margins of margins, Heero was the first to touch the lake. Without warning, the Wing pilot sneered as he quickly jumped from the water to pull Duo back in with him. The other swimmers followed their comrade's actions and pulled the remaining, dry pilots in with them as well. Instantly, they all laughed and attacked each with splashes and dunks.
hageshiku yureugoku jidai [kanji: hibi] wo
kedakaku shinayaka ni koeteikitai]
With their mountain bikes, Duo, Sette, Quatre and Delapan rode through the rugged terrain of the countryside. Using dips and small cliffs as ramps, they would be airborne as they rode quickly and wildly. Even with their stunts and dives, they would never fall from their bikes as they continued to increase their pace, up and downhill.
[yurushiaeru shinjitsu
kuchizuke kawashitara mou nani mo iranai!!]
Heero and Kumi were working with the exercise equipment that the Preventers had provided for the safe house. In only their boxers and for Kumi, a sports bra, they were strapped with sensors as they continued their intense training. The Wing pilot was running on one of the treadmills as his cousin lifted weights at the bench press. They were both coated in sweat, but never took any notice to anything as they concentrated on their exercise.
Duo and Trowa were working together in the room that the pilots had transformed into a large gym. Looking to the readings of their lovers as they worked out, the two pilots watched as their energy levels increased rapidly. As they made their reports, the tall pilot pointed out the vibrating pulse waves of the 'Perfect Soldiers.' Despite the fact that they were using different equipment, Heero and Kumi's energy and strength levels always remained the same. The American and European pilots smiled in awe to each other before returning their glances to their lovers.
[akiramenai jounetsu
shinjite tsuranuku [kanji: tatakau]]
Delapan was drinking from a water bottle as she and Sette took a breather before returning to their gymnastics. After drying her face with a white towel, the tomboy smiled wickedly to herself as she looked to the backside of her red-haired comrade. Spinning her towel into a tight string, the young queen whipped Catherine's rear sharply.
Dropping her water bottle, Delapan's hands instantly covered where she was hit as she gave a death glare to Sette. The tomboy almost couldn't stand from laughing so hard. She didn't have a moment to really enjoy the moment before Delapan was chasing her through the countryside.
(Music Bridge)
The Gundam pilots engaged themselves in a round of basketball as they played on the court just beside the safe house. Taking possession of the ball, Duo made his way down the court, managing to avoid the blocks from the comrades on the opposite team. Delapan was just about to seize the ball when the American tossed it to Sette. The tomboy danced around Wufei as she made her way closer to her team's basket.
The Chinese pilot was so close to capturing the sphere when the young woman passed the ball back to Duo. Instantly, The braided pilot found that Heero was open as he shot the ball to him. The Wing pilot shot the ball from behind the three-point line. The ball bounced from the ring, however. Quickly, Kumi leapt from where she was positioned just under the hoop. Recapturing the ball, the silver-haired pilot dunked it into the basket, hanging from the rim for a brief moment. Quatre, Delapa, Wufei and Trowa laughed as they applauded their celebrating friends along with Zes, who watched from the stands, before returning to the game.
Later that afternoon, the pilots were washing their Gundams as they lied on their backs outside, away from any detection. Using hoses and buckets of sudsy water, they wiped down their suits until they sparkled under the bright sun. It wasn't before long when Duo snuck from behind Wing Zero and nailed Heero with a soaked sponge. The 'Perfect Soldier' laughed and tossed the sponge he had been using back at his braided lover. Their friends soon got involved as hey drenched each other in a huge water fight as they sprayed their hoses and dumped their buckets on each other.
[atsuku yume [kanji: risou] wo kasanete
ayamachiosorezu ni motomeau seishun!!]
Wufei and Quatre had taken their Gundams to a deserted test site in as they made themselves more familiar with their suits' newest modifications. Nataku with its Samauri sword and Sand Rock with its missile launchers, the two pilots knocked any and every target to the ground with speed and marksmanship. Before long, the buildings and targets were noting but smoking rubble before the Gundam suits as they stood tall in the midst of the destruction. In their monitors, Wufei and Quatre gave each other satisfied smiles and nods.
[mitsumekaesu hitomi ni
egaite harukana]
As the 'Perfect Soldiers' concluded another workout in the gym and wiped themselves dry with the towels. Trowa and Duo smiled to them and waved before leaving the room after having monitored the pair. Those smiles and waves were returned as Heero and Kumi remained to catch their breath. The Wing pilot took a deep breath and sat at one of the benches as he closed his eyes, taking his time to unwind better.
Kumi gently ran a hand through her cousin's sweat-covered hair, bringing him to look up to her. The silver-haired pilot smiled and revealed a small, black-velvet box that she had been hiding. Her cousin's twin Prussian eyes widened and she tossed the package to him. Heero caught the box with ease and quickly opened it. A wide smile crossed the shocked pilot's face as he jumped up to kiss Kumi's cheek fiercely before pulling her into a tight hug. Excalibur's pilot closed her eyes as one of the brightest smiles she ever allowed herself made its mark on her expression, returning the tight embrace.
[atsuku yume [kanji: risou] wo kasanete
ayamachiosorezu ni motomeau seishun!!]
Lady Une and Keiser spoke with the Foreign Minister of a Colony as his image was displayed on the laptop of the Lieutenant. Receiving word of another Flare Sphere attack, the Preventers frowned to each other before signing off with the Representative. Closing the laptop, Lady Une lowered her head with a saddened expression. Keiser rested a supportive hand on her shoulder. Une squeezed it in appreciation before rising. Together, she and the Lieutenant made their way back to the control room.
[mitsumekaesu hitomi ni
egaite harukana]
The sun was beginning to set on yet another day of working out and preparation over Gettysburg. The Gundam pilots made their way back from the woods and hidden paths as they regrouped before the porch of the safe house. Even after all of their exercising, not one looked completely worn out as they reentered their 'home.' The door soon closed behind them, locking out the war for the night until the sun rose again.
(Song Ends)
* * * * * *
Narrator: With OZ's methods hurting the Gundam pilots from far away, the organization reduced themselves to attacking Colonies in the night by raining Flare Spheres on them. With no way of knowing when the next attack would be or when it would take place, all that the Preventers could do was bring supplies and much needed support to those in need after these air strikes. The Gundam pilots made it their responsibility to see that the shipment of these necessities reached their destinations safely.
Taking turns from day-to-day, the pilots would spend each night after their deliveries on a Preventer craft before returning to their safe house on the Earth. While they wished there was more they could do in effort to help those who had been hit by the Flare Sphere attacks, they knew that this was all they could offer. Sette Devion, Quatre Winner, Trowa Barton and Zes Peacecraft were the latest delivers. They took to the stars with the relief that they would take them throughout the Colonies that needed help the most.
* * * * * *
In the hanger beneath the pilots' safe house, Wing Zero and Excalibur lied on their backs, as far from the stairs that led to the ground level as possible. Heero and Kumi had been working on their suits for over an hour, just to see that everything was in place. Using blowtorches, they sealed the patches of Gundmimum that had been opened to have a better look inside. Both pilots wore their protective gloves and masks to shield off the sparks that flew around them. While the day had been a long one with their suits, it was reassuring for the 'Perfect Soldiers' in seeing that all of the Gundams had been successfully modified.
Finishing his work first, Heero silenced the tool in his hands and removed the mask and gloves. Wiping a bit of the sweat and dirt from his face, the Japanese pilot sat on the floor with his back to Wing Zero. Taking a long sip from the bottles water that he brought with him, he watched as his cousin continued to work on Excalibur. Kumi soon finished her task as she removed her protective gear once the blowtorch was lied to rest. Lowering herself to the ground, the silver-haired pilot began putting away all of the equipment that covered the ground. Heero rose and helped her clear the area.
As they finished up, Kumi looked to her cousin with uncertainty that he instantly noticed. Heero asked gently, in concern, "What is it?" The silver-haired pilot sighed deeply and lowered her head as she answered, "I need you to promise me something." Without hesitating, her cousin nodded, "Anything." Looking back into the Wing pilot's eyes, she stated, "I want you to promise me that you'll keep Trowa away from Demetris when we meet with him again." Heero's eyes widened for a moment. Kumi continued as she deadpanned, "We all know that he's the last of OZ's Gundam pilots. It's only be a matter of time before he'll make his next move."
Seeing the hesitance in her cousin, Kumi stated urgency in her voice, "If you were in my shoes, and Duo was is Trowa's-" Heero sighed deeply and nodded, "Alright... I promise that I'll do what I can to hold Trowa back." Excalibur's pilot smiled as she threw her arms around his neck to hug him tightly. Heero returned the embrace just as tightly as he heard his partner whisper, "Thank you, Heero." The Wing pilot closed his eyes and nodded silently.
Delapan walked past Wing Zero as she searched for the 'Perfect Soldiers.' Seeing the two embracing, she gasped quietly. Heero and Kumi lowered their arms as they looked to the redhead. Catherine bit her lip before saying gently, "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to interrupt." Heero smiled and nodded, "It's alright, Delapan. Were you able to contact Pulsar?" The young woman smiled and nodded, "I just spoke to Lady Une. Everyone reached their carriers safely." There wasn't any mistaking Kumi's relief as she sighed deeply and smiled, "Thank you, Delapan." The redhead winked, "I'll leave the two of you alone now." She left quickly. Heero chuckled deeply and wrapped his arm around Kumi's shoulder, smiling, "Come on. It's getting late." The two pilots walked from the hanger, finally able to relax now that they knew their comrades were safe.
* * * * * *
On the carrier where he would spend the night, Trowa gave his words of appreciation to the Commander of the ship as he walked to his quarters for the evening. Stepping into his dark room, the tall pilot stretched and yawned as he felt the strains of the long journey that he just returned from catching up with him.
The door had just closed behind him when a tall figure from the shadows suddenly grabbed the young man from behind, stifling a sharp cry from him as a long hand covered his mouth quickly. Thrown upon the bed at great force, Trowa did all he could to fight off the strong arms that had held him tightly, growling loudly as he did. In the haze of confusion, Trowa looked to the security switch just beyond his bed. With the dim moonlight that pierced through his window, he could see that the wires had been cut.
Unable to free his arms, he did the only thing he could and pulled his head back to bite down hard on the hand that covered his mouth. The Gundam pilot's teeth cut through the skin, drawing blood quickly while no cry came from the intruder. The large attacker spun Trowa onto his back, removing his hand from his mouth but not allowing the young man a moment to cry out before he threw a swift punch into the side of his face. Trowa fell back on the mattress unconscious. The tall shadow looked down on the pilot for a moment, chuckling deeply.
* * * * * *
Only hours later, the control room of Pulsar was filled with activity as the Preventers there worked frantically after receiving word of the European pilot's disappearance. Being the first ones to reach the craft, Sette, Quatre and Zes filled Heero, Duo, Wufei and Delapan in on what happened as they stood in the back of the room. Catherine's eyes widened as she covered her mouth, listening to her comrades over the noises around them. Derek wrapped his arms around his girlfriend to support her as she fought her fears of the worst having happened to her brother. The other pilots looked to each other in disbelief mixed with great concern.
Sally Poe, Lady Une and Lieutenant Keiser made their way to the pilots along with Marimaya and Mirando as they offered each other as much comfort as possible. Duo looked to the head of the Preventers as he said quietly, his voice almost lost in the sounds of the computers and soldiers that worked all around, "Thank you for getting a hold of us so quickly." Lady Une continued to frown as she nodded, "We'll get Trowa back somehow." The braided pilot nodded back, though he still couldn't help but have the sick feeling in his stomach.
Kumi ran into the control room in the midst of the confusion as she made her way towards her comrades. Heero spotted her as she was close to where they were gathered. Over the commotion of the soldiers speaking amongst themselves, the Wing pilot took hold of the silver-haired pilot's wrists, he pulled her toward him until they were chest-to-chest. Leaning forward, Heero spoke into the other pilot's ear. "Demetris captured Trowa." Kumi's eyes widened as these words sunk in. A small whimper left her as she suddenly felt her knees begin to give out. Her cousin squeezed her wrists to let her know that she wasn't alone. That simple gesture was enough to keep Kumi on her feet. Heero pulled back just enough for their matching eyes to stare into one another.
It was the first time that Kumi was ever openly venerable since Matt's death. Even then, it was nothing like this. Heero's remained the firm, unshakable soldier as he never broke his gaze. "H-how?" was all that Kumi finally managed to ask quietly. Heero answered, "Three OZ soldiers disguised themselves as Preventers on the craft that Trowa was to spend the night on. They helped Demetris get in and get out with him. Milliardo and Noin are on their way to see the spies as we speak. They'll find out what happened and where Trowa was taken." His partner took a deep breath and nodded.
Where the other pilots gathered, Zes looked to her friends and asked quietly, "How long do you think that Demetris will keep Trowa-" The young queen couldn't finish her sentence, unable to imaging the tall pilot being killed at the hands of that monster. Wufei stood beside his wife with his arms crossed he answered with certainty in his voice, "He won't kill Trowa... Not now, at least." Quatre swallowed hard at this as he turned to the Chinese pilot. "I'm afraid to ask what makes you so sure of that," he said in a small voice. Wufei motioned his head in the direction where Kumi and Heero were standing a few feet away. "Fishermen that use live bait have better chances at making their catch than those who don't."
Sette bit her lip than nodded, "Wufei's right... Demetris has been planning this for a long time now." Looking to where her long-time partner was standing, she said quietly, "He won't kill Trowa until he has the both of them." Delapan growled deeply while Derek continued to hold her, "Kumi will get him back... I can't wait until she finally kills him."
The tomboy shook her head, "It won't be that easy. Demetris knows all her tactics. While she knows all of his, she still isn't nearly as strong." Quatre sighed deeply, "And with that Gundamimum heart, he's still practically immortal." Everyone became quiet as they saw the 'Perfect Soldiers' walking back to them. Heero informed them, "We'll be waiting in the hanger until we hear from Milliardo and Noin." The pilots made their way to their Gundams, staying close together for moral support.
* * * * * *
On the ship where the three OZ spies had been captured, the General of the craft stood behind the double-sided glass that spied in on the prisoners as they spoke amongst one another at a round table in the room next door. The young woman sighed deeply as she shook her head to herself, "Those bastards will never break. A large part of OZ's training involves making their soldiers ready for interrogations such as this. My best men have been at them for hours and they still haven't gotten anything out of them." Milliardo walked to the glass and looked to the smug young men as they continued to laugh even in their situation. As he continued to watch them, he stated, "I think that we'll be able to fix that." The blonde General smiled and nodded, "That's why I had the two of you sent here to take over." Walking to the door, she said, "I'll introduce you."
The General entered the interview room as she announced, "Your new interrogators have arrived." One of the three soldiers sneered as he replied, "Not like you'll have any more luck getting us to talk." One of his friends chuckled with a smug grin, "That Barton kid will be dead before you come close to finding him." The young woman shrugged, "We'll see about that." Walking to the door, she allowed her fellow Preventers to take control as she stepped out.
Noin entered the room as the three spies lost their look of confidence instantly. When Milliardo entered, that hint of concern changed into obvious fear in knowing who the two pilots were. Fire glared to the prisoners along with her husband as they crossed their arms. The frightened pilots never took their eyes from the Preventers as the color in their faces faded. Fire sneered, "Now we can do this the easy way... or the hard way."
* * * * * *
On Colony E193, OZ had made a home of one of the largest bases to ever exist. A city all its own, the large buildings and plants that made up the base stretched for miles. Even with its great size, it was virtually invisible thanks to the peeks that surrounded them. Inside, there was an army of thousands that consisted mostly of clones that had been sent there specifically for this morning. The stillness of the plant was broken when every siren suddenly rang out and echoed throughout the area when the sky seemed to rain metal.
The Gundam suits, including Rampage and Euphoria fell from the heavens straight for their target. As they watched their enemies come to greet them in their mobile suits, Derek called to his friends from his Taurus suit, "The base has an endless supply of power since it transfers its electricity from the river across the way." Milliardo informed his friends, "We only need a handful to reach the nerve center to find Trowa." Already knowing this, Kumi's eyes narrowed as she pushed forward on her controls. The Preventers that came to the aid of their friends were prepared when they were face-to-face with the OZ soldiers who were determined to defend their base.
Mason flew with Excalibur as their pilots worked with one another to break through the initial wave of pilots that stood in their way. Before long, they had a clear visual of the largest of all the buildings belonging to the base as it rested perfectly in the center of the large city below. Sette's image appeared on the 'Perfect Soldier's' screen as she stated, "I'll take the east end." Kumi nodded once as she deadpanned, "Understood." At this, the two pilots split and reached the opposite ends of the facility. Within moments, their suits were breaking through the building as their friends continued to battle in the skies.
* * * * * *
The Gundam pilots continued to shoot around the base, taking out everything with them that they could. Looking to her monitors, the Queen of the World noticed that she and her comrades were beginning to bunch up, not realizing that the OZ soldiers were pushing them back as they continued to struggle. Zes turned as she called to Quatre, "They're pushing us as close together as they can. We have to try and spread out more, otherwise they'll never be thinned out." The Arabian nodded, "Just be sure that you don't get pulled into an ambush." Together, they pushed their way through the mobile suits in effort to avoid being outnumbered.
* * * * * *
Sette broke through the her end of the base, hammering her way through every wall and destroying any challenger that managed to reach her in one piece. As she reached the end of the long hall she was flying through, the tomboy found herself in the center of the entire facility. Looking to the images of the area on her screen, the young queen told herself with narrowed eyes, "This place is a maze..." As she continued to look to her surroundings, Sette noticed the main lighting overhead begin to flicker the slightest bit.
A sharp gasp left Sette as she shouted, "That's it!" Typing some commands into her system, the blue-haired pilot's eyes narrowed as she noted to herself, "The main power supply of this facility has been transferring itself to two rooms..." Centering on one of those locations, she stated, "As expected, one of those is the control room... And the other is where they would be torturing prisoners." She watched as a bull's eye appeared with its center over the exact room that shared the transfer of energy. "THERE HE IS!" Sette shouted as she shot off in the direction of the room she picked up.
It wasn't long before the tomboy reached a massive door that was sheets upon sheet of Gundamimum thick. A sneer crossed the pilot's lips as she chuckled deeply, "Well, Mase, Father always said to be polite and knock before entering." Raising her laser mallet over head, the tomboy began hitting away at the door. Only a few hits were enough to make an opening that the young queen could pull apart and widen. Flying inside the moment she was able, Sette looked to her monitors to see that the enormous cell had been filled with OZ mobile suits. Every gun was aimed at Mason.
Sette growled deeply, unshaken by the fact that she was grossly outnumbered. Initiating the fight, the young woman went right into the fray. Just as it was becoming clear that Mason was in great danger of being overcome, Heero and Duo flew in from the hole that Sette had made. Thanks to their wings and body armor, following the young queen through the base wasn't a challenge the moment they realized that she could have been in trouble. Together, the three pilots fought off the soldiers. Finally, a handful of the OZ pilots began to retreat.
Mason was the first to be relieved of the struggle as Sette panted and tried to regain her composure while Heero and Duo continued to take down those OZ soldiers who remained. As she looked to the deserted end of the room, she noticed a long, silver table where a young man lied on his back, strapped to the hard surface with sensors strapped to his forehead and bare chest. The white flood lights that beamed down on hi from high above made room for no question of the prisoner's identity. Sette cried, "TROWA!" Quickly, she flew over to the table and opened her cockpit the moment that Mason landed.
Once she was on the ground, the tomboy jumped onto table and looked down with concerned eyes to her unconscious friend. Lowering her ear to rest on the tall pilot's chest, she bit her lip in search of a heartbeat. With a small smile, Sette sighed in relief as she looked to Trowa. "Just as stubborn as Kumi," she chuckled deeply. She hurried to remove the sensors that had been taped to her comrade. Removing a dagger from its sheath against her ankle, Sette said quietly, "Just hand in there, Trowa. I'll have you out in a second." The sounds of the fight around her continued as she began to cut through the thick, leather straps that held the tall pilot against the flat surface.
* * * * * *
Excalibur was making its way through the building as it soared through the facility without any difficulty. Making her way through one floor to the next, Kumi shot down every mobile suit that faced her and soon reached the center of the entire base. Looking to her monitors, the silver-haired pilot located the thick, metal wall separating her from the heart of the facility that created and transferred its power from the manmade river miles away.
Just as Kumi broke inside, the 'Perfect Soldier' found that the very room that should have been the most guarded was barren of any soldiers. The empty space was eerie as the only thing present was the equipment of the nerve center. The engines and generators of the plant went on turning as they hissed and hummed, generating electricity from the river. The young pilot neared the center of the room where the largest of the round engines stood. It was when she was just feet from that spot when a beam came from above the machine, heading straight for the winged suit.
Kumi just managed to avoid the beam as she brought her suit to fly backwards. When the beam crashed through the ground where she once was, the silver-haired pilot watched the blue, ram-headed Gundam of her greatest foe as it landed with a deafening crash before her. The silver-haired pilot's Prussian eyes widened initially, but quickly narrowed into thin, threatening slits as she finally gazed upon her enemy. At this Demetris sneered, "I've been waiting a long time for this." Kumi gave a sharp, "Humph," with a cocky sneer to match. Instantly, the two Gundams charged each other as their pilots were determined to settle their long, bitter rivalry once and for all.
After a long exchange of blows back and forth, Capricorn charged head-first, nailing Excalibur clean in the chest with its round horns while its arms wrapped around the winged suit. The two Gundams flew straight through the metal and brick walls that were directly behind Unit 10. Kumi growled loudly as she held onto her controls, unable to fight off her opponent as he continued to hurl her backwards with him. Managing to keep herself from jolting completely from her seat, the silver-haired pilot glared to her monitors as she looked to the blue Gundam that held her. Finally, the two pilots were out of the facility as they penetrated the last wall of steel.
Taking to the air after releasing Excalibur, Demetris laughed, "What's wrong, Kumi? You should have seen that one coming!" The "Perfect Soldier' hissed, "Keep laughing you bastard!" At this, she charged the ram Gundam with all the force she had, pushing forward on her handgrips. The jagged-edge Gundamimum sword of Capricorn met with the laser sword of its opponent. Driven by rage and hatred that had grown for years, the two pilots exchanged blows and shots from every direction. Their shouts and cries could be heard over every transmitter as they battled each other feverishly.
From their place in the sky, Milliardo and Noin watched their screens as they continued to hold off the OZ soldiers that swarmed around them. Looking to the fight between the two rivals, they couldn't help but lose themselves in the image of the two Gundams. Not in all of their experience had them ever seen such a heated struggle between two pilots. Every blow and block was matched and exceeded with the next. Breathlessly, Noin whispered as she continued to watch with wide eyes, "I-it's like the fight that you and Heero fought at the end of the Eve Wars with Wing Zero and Epion." Milliardo's own eyes remained focused on the battle as he replied quietly, "This fight is far worse than ours ever could have been."
Kumi landed a swift punch across the blue Gundam as she shouted and continued to unleash a string of hits to her challenger. Demetris soon recovered and slashed at Excalibur, slicing through the right arm until it's point stabbed through the other end. The silver-haired pilot shouted, "K'SO!" Taking hold of the metal blade with her Gundam's left hand, she pulled Excalibur's arm free. Not wasting a moment, Kumi stabbed through Capricorn's left shoulder. Demetris's eyes burned with fury as he removed the weapon.
Again, the two struggled as they wrestled and attacked every which way they could. Excalibur was the first to fall on its back after a forceful blow by the ram's horns. Kumi looked up to her scanners with blood running down the left ride of her face and watched as Capricorn was just a few feet from crushing her as it's hoofed feet fell upon her. Rolling out of the way just in time, the silver-haired pilot pulled her Gundam back to its feet as she instantly returned to blocking the slashes and hits that Demetris continued to rain upon her.
The skies began to grow dark with thick clouds and the wind began to howl as it grew. While not a drop fell from the sky, there was a bolt of lightning that lit everything around for miles as it pierced from the heavens. Still making their stand, Quatre, Zes, Delapan and Wufei continued to plow though the OZ soldiers that refused to surrender their base. Seeing that the weather was becoming threatening, Wufei warned his comrades, "If any soldiers manage to break away, let them go. They know this area better than we do."
Demetris and Kumi went on in their brutal war as they showed no regard for their own well being, as long as it meant that their greatest opponent was destroyed in the process. After a long duel with their suits, the pilots were still at a stalemate. Capricorn suddenly flew backwards in the midst of an exchange of blows. Landing several feet before Excalibur, Demetris hissed, "If we end this, be end this without the aid of our Gundams. That also goes for those wings of yours." Kumi sneered in reply, "I wouldn't have it any other way." The tall man sneered, "I know just the place." Without any further discussion, Capricorn's shot off as great speed as Kumi watched before following, just as quickly.
* * * * * *
Trowa woke with a deep moan as he looked up to find Duo, Heero and Sette gathered around him. While his body ached all over, the tall pilot only growled quietly, trying to sit up. Duo quickly placed his hands on the injured pilot's shoulders and shook his head, "Forget it, Trowa. You're not going anywhere." The tall pilot shouted, "Damn it! Kumi's in danger and you want me to stay here!?!" Sette held Trowa's arms down as she yelled back, "This is for your own good! If Demetris sees you again, he'll kill you!"
Looking up to the Wing pilot, Trowa frowned and fought tears as he said quietly, "Heero, please... You can't keep me here like this." The Japanese pilot shook his head as he answered, "Sorry, Trowa. But if anything happened to you, it will hurt Kumi worse than anything Demetris could put her through. I'm looking out for her by keeping you safe." The tall pilot's eyes narrowed as he growled deeply, "And if he kills her?" Heero replied sadly, "She'll die knowing you're alive."
At this, Trowa gasped as his eyes widened. He suddenly realized... "She made you promise to keep me away!" he shouted. The three pilots worked even harder in keeping their friend down as he tried to get up with more force. Sette made her comrade to look at her as she held onto his chin and said sternly, "Listen to me. That monster has had you targeted since the day you pushed Kumi out of his path when they came close to flying into one another a year ago. If she lost you the same way she lost Matt, it will kill her!"
Duo sighed deeply, "Come on, man! I know you want to be there for her, but Demetris is out for you first, and you know it! She loves you... Why else would she make Heero promise to keep you away from him?" Trowa growled deeply, "I appreciate the fact that you all want to help, but this is something that is between the three of us, not just Kumi and Demetris."
Quatre's voice patched into Heero and Duo's helmets as he called, "Everyone, we need you out here. There are too many soldiers to handle on our own." Heero nodded and replied, "We're coming, Quatre." Looking to his tall comrade, he stated clearly, "That includes you." Trowa lowered his head, but nodded before rising. The pilots ran to their suits and Heero and Duo shot off into the sky, flying through the hole in the ceiling that they had made just moments ago. Mason and Heavy Arms were right behind them.
* * * * * *
More than fifteen miles from where the base was, the fields were barren of any trees, mountains or life as all that could be seen were stretches of boulders, cliffs and rough terrain. It wasn't far from the river that produced the electric energy for the incredible plant of the OZ organization. Capricorn touched down first. The blue Gundam's hatch opened as Demetris stepped out into the windy air. His black locks blew with the wind as he lowered himself to the ground, watching the sky as he waited. The wait wasn't a long one before Excalibur landed several feet away. Kumi left her suit wearing her purple cape over the black attire she always had. As the Japanese pilot walked towards the tall man, her cape and long, silver hair were blew behind her.
Demetris chuckled deeply beneath the dark sky as he removed a long blade from the sheath that fell at his right side. The blade was thin where the man held it, but it widened as it neared the tip into a massive weapon. Kumi removed her own sword, one shaped like a lightning bolt. Holding the blade in her left hand, her right hand was lifted as it took one quick tug at the clip that held her hooded cape in place. At the removal of the clasp, the purple cloak flew off of the pilot with the wind, landing just to her side. For a moment, the soldiers simple stared at their prey, eyes locked. The pilots never broke their gazes from one another as they stalked to their opponent. Finally tired of taking their time, the challengers ran to each other, shouting loudly and raising their blades over head.
The initial blows, nothing hit their target as each shot was blocked by the sword. The wind continued to increase as the experienced warriors continued to fight each other with all of the intensity within them. Finally, they began breaking past their challenger's blocks, scratching and nicking at their foe. Just as Kumi was beginning to have a break in getting through Demetris's defenses, the silver-haired pilot was kicked in the face, never having a chance to see the blow coming. The force of the kick was enough to sent the pilot flying backwards. Unable to prevent herself from sliding across the ground, Kumi lost her balance and rolled down a steep hill of jagged rock behind her, crying out as she fell. Demetris stood at the edge of the steep hill as he laughed madly at the sight.
Demetrismade his way down the jagged hill, taking his time to enjoy the moment. Kumi was just beginning to fight her way onto her feet again when he reached her. The giant bent down and gripped her silver hair in a tight fist before she couldsee him coming. Kumi gasped loudly when her enemy pulled her up by her ponytail, soon screaming in pain by the swift tug. The tall man spun the young woman once around him before hurling her body into a slate of stone. The 'Perfect Soldier' rolled along the rocky earth following the force of the slam. When she stopped, Kumi was lying on her stomach , right cheek cut and bleeding against the solid ground as she struggled to open her eyes, moaning in agony.
The giant that continued to dominate the personal fight chuckled deeply to himself as he walked slowly to where he had dropped his sword. Taking the blade with him to his toy, Demetris bent down to wrap his right, thick arm around the other pilot's neck, causing her to gag as he lifted her in that fashion until her head was next to his own. The Prussian eyes of the silver-haired pilot were squeezed shut as she struggled to breathe. Bringing the tip of his sword to fall just beyond his prey's exposed Adam's apple with his free hand, he growled deeply, "I always wondered what it would sound like to make you scream." Kumi's eyes narrowed as she regained her strength with those words.
Taking hold of the large wrist that held her up, the Japanese pilot pushed it quickly enough to catch her aggressor off-guard. Demetris was unable to defend himself as Kumi spun before him, taking possession of his other wrist and slamming the sword in his grasp straight through his right shoulder. Only a loud gasp left the OZ pilot as he felt the metal pierce all the way through.
The young woman landed just before him, coughing and gagging as she fell to her knees, having a hard time catching the breath that had been robbed of her. Even as she continued to cough violently, Kumi managed to stumble back several steps. As she began to breathe freely again, the Gundam pilot watched as Demetris pulled the sword from his body. Pointing the blood-covered weapon to his rival, the tall man shook his head along with the sword. He click his tongue three times and warned, "That wasn't a very nice thing to do." His only response was a deep growl.
* * * * * *
An hour later, the pilots fighting over the base were finally beginning to see the numbers in the OZ forces decreasing. While this was something that they were relieved to see, they couldn't help their concern for Kumi. Duo sliced his way through a handful of mobile suits with his laser scythe while soaring through the battlefield with his demon wings. As he reached his friends, he called, "They're starting to group together more since their defenses are being cut down." From the opposite end of the fight, Noin nodded, "I'm starting to see that here, too."
Trowa shot down anything that moved around him as his narrowed eyes glared to the screens. Trying not to think about what could have been happening to his lover, the tall pilot took out his frustration out on those unfortunate enough to reach him. Just then, he heard Sette's voice ask, "Any sign of Kumi or Demetris?" and his green eyes softened in hopes that someone might know something. Zes was the first to answer, "No...Not even a glimpse." Their friends all gave negative responses as they continued to handle the forces against them. Trowa lowered his head as he closed his eyes and whispered, "Just hold on, love."
* * * * * *
Kumi was now covered in sweat and blood from cuts and bruises all over her body as she panted, looking to Demetris. The tall man laughed loudly. While the he was just as cut and bruised all around, he was not affected in the least. The beast charged the other pilot again. As the two pilots continued to cut and stab each other, it became difficult to tell their blood from one another as they melded on their bodies.
Nearing the edge of the terrain, the pilots could hear and see the river that flowed stories below them. For every mile-and-a-half along the edge of the ground, there was a tall, metal generator shaped as a large cross with a large throw-switch at its base. It was through these devices that the hydroelectricity was created and transferred. The cranes, levers and chained hooks that stood all around the devices were the aids in creating transferring the electricity from the crosses.
The fact that they were so close to the edge of the cliff over the river never phased Demetris or Kumi as they went on in their attacks. Even after fighting in this way for over an hour, they struck and dodged with as much determination as they had when the fight began. Their grunts and shouts echoed in the wind as they danced around each other, managing to cut their enemy in some fashion. The blood loss that she had suffered greatly the last seventy minutes was finally beginning to take its toll on Kumi.
The 'Perfect Soldier' had a deep scar that ran from just above her right temple and went down into a moon-shaped curve down to her chin to just miss her eye. As she and Demetris pulled back for a moment, she panted loudly with her legs spread in an effort to remain standing. The man before her laughed loudly, never feeling even a little tired despite the fact that he was bleeding just as badly as the Japanese pilot. His face had three long, deep scars that ran across from left to right to give the impression that a large animal scratched him.
Seeing that the silver-haired pilot was beginning to wear thin, Demetris wiped just some of the blood that covered his face as he sneered at the young pilot. Still panting, Kumi never lost her death glare as she held up her sword with both hands. Had anyone else been in her shoes, they would have been dead long before now with the abuse she had taken. Her cloths were shredded all around as blood and sweat seeped through the holes. "Not giving up so soon are you?" the Kumi challenged. She growled, "There's still life in me yet."
Demetris licked his lips and replied, "Oh, I'm well aware of that." With a deep growl of his own, the giant charged again to his opponent. Welcoming the assault, Kumi returned every blow for a good amount of the time. However, about ten more minutes into the heated battle, the Japanese pilot began to grow dizzy at the speed that the OZ pilot was moving. It was more than enough for Demetris to take the upper-hand. One powerful blow knocked the sword from Kumi's grasp. Before her weapon even hit the ground, the 'Perfect Soldier' was kicked and punched relentlessly. It wasn't until the last of those blows sent her reeling backwards, landing on her side as she hit the ground.
Amazed at how long his enemy held out, the tall man watched the still figure that lied just feet ahead of him. A soft moan of pain left Kumi as she pushed herself to stand. Once she was on her feet, she looked with heavy-lidded eyes to the tall man. Time stood still and another large drop of blood fell from the scar on her face. Demetris couldn't do anything but look in wonder, unable to imagine how anyone could remain so strong. Just as another bead of crimson dropped, the Prussian eyes of the Gundam pilot closed and a small sigh left her. Finally, exhausted and broken, Kumi fell unconscious before her enemy.
The cold eyes of the OZ pilot widened in disbelief for a moment before they narrowed again. Demetris walked to the fallen pilot and gazed upon her silently for a moment. Kicking the Kumi in the chest, he brought her to roll onto her back. There was no other response from the lifeless body. A sneer crossed the large man's lips as he reveled in knowing that he had defeated his greatest and most worthy challenger after so long.
Looking to the metal cross as it continued to stand tall and on the edge of the cliff just ahead, he eyed the long chains that rested on either side within their levers. Demetris chuckled deeply to himself and collected his sword and that one belonging to his foe. As another bolt of lightning flashed across the dark clouds, the OZ pilot threw the bloody form of his enemy over his shoulder, walking her to the electric conductor. The wind continued to blow strongly as the giant reached the machine. Resting the swords beside him, Demetris removed two long chains from their levers. Once these were in his possession, he brought Kumi's back to rest against the steel.
Stretching the arms of the 'Perfect Soldier' out, Demetris made quick work of tying her wrists to the horizontal line of the cross. Standing back, he looked to the helpless being as her limp body fell forward, held up only by the chains that secured her against the steel. The tall man took possession of the sword shaped like a lightning bolt as he admired it. "Fitting that you would try to kill me with Matt's sword...Only now you'll be the one to die by it." Demetris pressed the tip of the blade just over where the trapped pilot's heart was beating. Pulling the sword back, his eyes narrowed as he said darkly, "Any now, my greatest adversary...I bid you farewell."
Demetris grunted loudly as he thrust the blade forward at great force. Just before the point was about enter Kumi's chest, her right wrist twitched sharply within it's confines to reveal a Gundamimum switchblade that had been concealed under the black bracelet that she wore. As she sliced through the chains that held her wrist, she kicked her feet up with a loud cry, knocking the blade from Demetris. In the blink of an eye, she took hold of the long chain that now fell loose, gripped the end as she whipped the length of the line to wrap around the giant's thick neck, instantly cutting off his air supply. Demetirs gagged loudly both as his hands reached up to remove the chain.
Releasing the other end of the chain, Kumi quickly freed her other wrist with the switchblade as the tall man freed himself from the tight metal ring that strangled him. Grabbing his sword as the Japanese pilot continued to try and break free, Demetris screamed and ran to her with his blade aimed for her own neck. Waiting until the last possible second, Kumi cut the last ring of metal as she fell to the ground. Unable to see this coming, Demetris couldn't pull away in time to prevent his blade from stabbing through the large generator. As he swiftly moved to turn, the monster heard the wheels of the levers spinning as the chains around them clicked loudly as they were pulled by the wheels.
Four large, metal grappling hooks came from behind just as Demetris managed to turn his back to the generator. Wrapping around his chest, legs and arms, the thick chains of the hooks pulled him back forcefully until he crashed into the metal. The hooks wrapped around the cross, unable to be moved. The levers kept turning as they pulled the chains as tightly as they could until they met resistance while the trapped pilot cried out in rage. Unable to fight off the strength of the metal ropes as they continued to hold him back, Demetris's eyes burned with amazing fury. That fury was shot to the sneering Gundam pilot as she watched from a few feet away, by the activation switch.
"Farewell," Kumi deadpanned. At this, she threw the switch and sent the electricity from the water below coursing through the OZ pilot's entire being. Demetris threw his head back as the bolts of energy hit him. The cross began to glow a hot white as the energy increased. While the tall man continued to scream, the Japanese pilot took Matt's sword back into her right hand, fighting the pain that her movements caused. Holding the weapon before her, Kumi took a moment to gain focus. Her eyes then narrowed into thin slits and she ran as fast as her legs could carry her to the cross. Her chase ended just before the spot as she leapt into the air to have a clear shot at her target.
With a loud cry, Kumi plunged the sword into the left side of Demetris's chest, just below his shoulder. The man gasped loudly as he felt the metal enter his skin. Not taking a second to breathe, the 'Perfect Soldier' dragged the half-sheathed sword down with her, making a long and deep slit as blood began to run from the opening. All the while, Demetris continued to scream in agony. Kumi through her right hand into the slit as she pushed it inside the man's body, never becoming shaken or sickened by the feeling as she searched. Growling deeply, she pushed her hand deeper inside until her arm was in nearly to its elbow.
Demetris continued to scream at the top of his lungs, paralyzed by the pain more than the metal grips that pinned him back. The electricity that continued to surge through his body finally reached his heart just as Kumi was about to reach it. Feeing the shocks, the silver-haired pilot never allowed herself to stop as she pushed her arm further inside. Finally, she reached her target as she wrapped her hand around the Gundamimum heart that continued to beat within the giant's chest.
The moment that her hand took hold of the metal, the electric shocks began to run through her own body. Crying out, Kumi grasped onto the heart as tightly as she could, ignoring the pain that this brought. Quickly, the 'Perfect Soldier' lifted her legs up to her chest, bringing her feet to rest over Demetirs's chest as an aid while she pulled back with everything she had. The giant's screams became even louder as the other pilot twisted and ripped his metal heart from its confines.
Finally, Kumi removed the heart entirely, removing it from every part that it had been attached to in the process with one last and swift tug as Demetris fell silent. Falling backwards following the forceful pull, the young pilot landed on her back and looked up to the gruesome form that remained of her greatest enemy. Her blood-dripping hand never released the Gundamimum heart. Demetris's head hung down and forward as the rest of his body slumped within the restraints. With wide eyes, Kumi panted in quick, ragged breaths one in back of the other.
Swallowing hard, the silver-haired pilot slowly got to her feet, never taking her eyes from Demetris's corpse as it remained still on the cross. Turning her attention to the heart that remained in her possession, the 'Perfect Soldier' dropped the metal pump to her feet and raised her sword that its point aimed right for it. Thrusting downward, Kumi stabbed the heart through. As expected, the result was a large blast that shattered the ground before her.
Kumi stepped back as the ground beneath the generator began to crumble at the force that the explosion. It wasn't long before everything collapsed down the side of the rocky cliff. It stopped just inches from the Gundam pilot's feet as she watched through expressionless eyes. From where she stood, Kumi had a clear view of the descent of the OZ pilot's body along with the cross as they crash and sank into the river below, never to be seen again. With that, the long feud between the two pilots was finally over. Stading on the edge of the new cliff, Kumi placed Matt's sword back in the sheath at her side, never breaking her gaze from the river.
Suddenly, there was a massive explosion from the base miles back as it was destroyed, sending great aftershocks that made the ground tremble. The soil beneath Kumi's feet began to crack and give way as she was standing so close to the edge of the cliff. The Japanese pilot gasped loudly just before she ran back to safer ground as quickly as she could. Just as she was about to reach the secured land, everything fell out from under the pilot. Jumping forward, Kumi just managed to grab the edge that remained as she began to collapse.
Hanging hundreds of miles above the river that continued to flow rapidly below, the 'Perfect Soldier' whimpered in pain as she fought desperately to pull herself up. The ground that she held onto with her scarred and blood-covered hands began to crumble at Kumi's efforts. Loosing her grip, the silver-haired pilot's eyes widened as she scratched at the surface that continued to fall apart.
Sliding down several feet to the jagged edge of the cliff that remained, only her right hand managed to take hold of the thin point. Panting and terrified, Kumi let out a small whimper and moan of pain as she tried to pull herself up again onto the last bit of ground that she could take hold of. Again, the Japanese pilot's efforts were too great a strain on the unsteady earth that she dangled from. The pointed ledge fell apart. With a loud scream, she fell backwards and down towards the river.
A hand suddenly grabbed onto the silver-haired pilot's right as it held on tightly. Looking up with her Prussian eyes still wide, Kumi looked up to Trowa as he hung over the edge of the steady ground. Panting, himself, the tall pilot looked with concerned eyes to his lover as he continued to hold her up by her right hand. "Trowa," was all that she could manage to whisper as she looked up to him in disbelief. The tall pilot smiled lovingly as he nodded, "You didn't think that I'd be that easy to keep away did you?" Kumi bit her lip as tears filled her eyes. With a small smile, she gave a sharp, relieved laugh. Trowa extended his other hand to her. Nodding, Kumi raised her left hand and took hold of his.
Trowa pulled the silver-haired pilot to safety as they wrapped their arms tightly around one another. Kumi buried her head in Trowa's chest and sobbed as she began to shake. Looking up to his face, she kissed it several times, whispering brokenly, "I was so worried about you." The European pilot kissed the silver-haired pilot's forehead and held her close again as he whispered back, "I'm fine now that you're alright." Kumi buried her head back in the tall pilot's chest as she continued to cry silently. Wrapping the purple cape around the wounded pilot, Trowa held his love tightly, vowing never to let go as they simply sat in each other's arms in silence. In the distance, the Gundam suits of their friends flew towards them.
* * * * * *
That same night, just as the sun began to set in the clear sky, Capricorn stood in all its glory just beyond the mountains where the OZ base of Colony E193 once was. The silver-haired pilot responsible for the death of its pilot stood on a tall hill a half-mile away. With the exception of her face, nearly all of her exposed skin was bandaged as what remained of her black outfit was still in shreds. The scar on the right side of her face would be a permanent, a constant reminder of the fight she endured.
Looking to the blue Gundam one last time, Kumi pressed a small detonator that she held tightly, bringing the suit to explode instantly. As the smoke rose from the creator that remained, Trowa walked to his lover, wrapping his arms around her waist as he rested his head on her shoulder. "I can't believe it's finally over," the 'Perfect Soldier' whispered breathlessly.
The tall pilot smiled and kissed his partner's temple. His smile soon faded as a thought hit him. "I know that Matt must be proud of you," Trowa said quietly, almost sadly. Turning to her lover, Kumi frowned when she saw the lost expression on her lover's face. Only now was she aware that he must have felt as though he came second in her eyes. Lifting his face until their eyes met, the silver-haired pilot said, "Trowa... what Matt and I had..."
Unsure of how to say what she felt, the 'Perfect Soldier' paused and lowered her head as she closed her eyes. Finally, she whispered, "When I was told that Demetris had captured you... And I thought that I might have lost you... I couldn't breathe... As far as I'm concerned, you've always been my first love." A small gasp left her partner as his eyes widened at the confession. He watched as a small tear rolled down Kumi's cheek and brushed it away gently. Lifting her head, Trowa whispered, "I love you." His lover whispered back, "Ai shiteru."
After a brief pause, Kumi smiled lovingly and said quietly, "Thank you... for catching me." Trowa returned the same smile and nodded, "I promise I'll never let you fall." The two pilots leaned in slowly to share a deep kiss. Trowa wrapped his arms around the his lover and lifted her as she wrapped her arms around his neck, never breaking the kiss.
In the distance, their friends watched along with Sera Makato and Derek, who had taken part in the battle at the mountain base. They all smiled warmly as they gathered together. Heero sighed deeply as he rested his head on Duo's shoulder, hugging him tightly from behind as he said, "You know, you're right...They almost do make most a cute a couple as we do." Duo smiled turned to meet his lover's gaze with his own warm smile still in place. "Almost," they stressed simultaneously as they nodded. They watched with theirs friends as the sweet couple made their way back. Trowa and Kumi returned to them, hand-in-hand. Sette smiled to her oldest comrade, "Ready, boss?" Kumi smiled back and nodded, "Yea... There's nothing more for us here." The others agreed as they all returned to their Gundams.
Zes had just closed the cocoon of her cockpit and turned to her monitors when a large, dark shadow covered the front of her suit. "What!?!" she gasped as she tried to get a shot of what was covering her hatch. Just then, the scanners picked up that it was a large sign that read "BABIES ON BOARD" in huge, bold letters. Relena shouted, "DUO!!!" Sette's voice could be heard chuckling deeply over the transmitters as
Duo replied loudly, "What!?! I'm trying to help you out!" Sette's laughter grew as he continued to grow louder as the braided pilot went on to explain, "You could be in the middle of a fight and everyone against you will stop what they're doing and say, 'WAIT! WE CAN'T SHOOT THEM! THERE ARE BABIES ON BOARD!!!'" By now, Sette hysterically laughing as she howled loudly with laughter. "Thank you, Sette!" Duo smiled as he nodded. "You're welcome, baby! I love ya!" the tomboy laughed.
The others joined in the laughter, including Kumi, taking everyone by surprise. Her sincere, loud laughter continued as everyone else had stopped to listened in awe. When she finished, the silver-haired pilot chuckled deeply, "What's wrong? Haven't you heard a person laughing before?" Her friends comrades warmly at this. Heero nodded, "Alright, everyone. Let's go home." Wing Zero took to the skies first with Excalibur and Deathscythe right behind. The Gundams of their comrades followed in suit as they left the Colony together.
* * * * * *
Lady Une was sleeping in her room on Pulsar just a few nights later when a knock on her door woke her. The head of the Preventers wrapped a robe over her nightgown as she quickly walked to the door. Opening it, the young woman squinted at the bright light of the hallway. Her eyes widened when she saw the Lieutenant standing on the other side. "Jason?" she asked quietly.
Keiser nodded, "Forgive me for waking you, Lady Une." She shook her head and assured him, "It's alright. What is it?" The young man paused then smiled, "In one week, we'll have the exact location of the last OZ stronghold." The brown eyes of his commander widened instantly. When the shock wore off, she sneered, "Tell me everything."
TBC