*bold*
/italics or thoughts/
Authors Note: This chapter contains some scenes of NCS (Non-Consensual Sex i.e. rape) Read at your own risk!
Chapter 9 - Wedding Bells
Duo and Heero found the others sometime later. Quickly regrouping, they prepared for an all out assault.
It never came.
The entire base seemed to be deserted. Duo and Heero related their conversation with General Kresch.
Quatre wasn't really surprised. Kresch had been an old adversary of his father's.
"Well, I think we scared him bad enough so you don't have to worry about him again!" Duo exclaimed, as they neared the gate.
"Maybe." Quatre remarked, still holding Sarit close.
Wufei stepped out of the gatehouse at that moment. "Took you long enough."
"We were delayed." Heero remarked.
"Sure. Is that why the entire base up and left?"
Duo smiled. "Yep. Heero here scared the living shit out of their commander!"
"Hn," was Heero's only reply.
Shaking his head, Wufei opened the gate. They all piled into the truck, Trowa once again driving.
* * * * *
Some hours later, Heero returned to his quarters. After they had arrived back at the mansion, the authorities had grilled Heero and Duo about their encounter with General Kresch. If Duo hadn't intervened, Heero would most definitely have killed at least one of those whining police officers.
Heero entered his room and felt something was off. Instinctively, he drew his gun and pointed it at a shadowy corner.
A feminine chuckle came from the corner. Then a young woman stepped out.
Relena Darlian Peacecraft smiled with amusement at her bodyguard/boyfriend. "Still wanting to kill me, huh?"
"Hn." Heero drew back the safety and placed the gun on a nearby table. "Watch it next time, Relena. I could have killed you."
Relena smiled. "I seem to remember a time when you wanted nothing more than to kill me."
He shrugged. "I was young then."
Smiling, she approached him. Putting her hand on his chest, she ran her fingers through his hair. "I missed seeing you when I arrived."
Heero took her hand from his chest and pulled her close. "It was important to get Sarit back. It was important to Quatre."
"And Heero Yuy never turns down a mission," Relena replied.
Heero just shrugged.
Relena gazed into his Prussian blue eyes and pouted. "Is this any way to greet your girlfriend? I thought better of you, Heero."
Placing his hands on her waist, he drew her taunt body towards his. Where their flesh touched, fire raced. Lowering his mouth to hers, Relena lost herself in his kiss.
She moaned when she felt Heero's tongue enter her sweet cavern. She moved her mouth in synch with his. She gasped, feeling his body grind against hers.
Pulling away, Heero traced her kiss-swollen lips with the tip of his finger. She smiled at the light and passion in his eyes. Bringing her close once again, his lips claimed hers as his. They lost themselves in each other once again, their moans muffled by the closing of the bedroom door.
* * * * *
Sarit sat at her vanity, brushing her hair. The bristled glided through her long, silky red hair.
It had been a couple hours since the return and she was still shaking. Never in her life had she experienced something so terrifying. The thought of being helpless while someone raped her was almost more than she could stand.
Getting up from the table, she went to the window. It was now very early in the morning. She sighed. She quickly got dressed for bed.
Once under the covers, she let her mind wander. A smile came to her lips. She remembered Quatre coming to her rescue. Her heart soared when she remembered his kiss. She briefly touched her fingers to her lips, remembering the sweetness of it.
She sighed. /Maybe..../
The thought left her as she fell into a deep sleep.
* * * * *
Quatre sat at his desk, sipping a cup of tea. He was having another bought of insomnia and working wasn't helping any. He put his pen down and sighed. He placed his head in his hands and groaned.
He didn't know what was happening to him. That whole episode with Sarit unnerved him. Not so much his feelings for her. She was a very beautiful woman. Who wouldn't find her attractive? No, not Sarit herself, but his reaction to her being in danger. For a split second when he and Trowa confronted those guards, Quatre would have killed. Gladly and without remorse.
That thought frightened him more than any other. He valued life above all else. The only other time he had felt this way had been during the war, when he was in the grips of the ZERO system.
He got up suddenly. He had to speak to Heero as soon as possible.
* * * * *
A very happy and content Relena snuggled against the warmth next to her.
"Stop that."
She giggled. Looking up at the deep Prussian blue eyes that had always captivated her, she smiled. "I forgot how nice it is to have you around!"
"Hn."
Relena quirked an eyebrow at Heero. She laid her head back on his shoulder, tracing circles along his chest with her finger. He groaned.
Smiling mischievously, she climbed on top of him. "Hmmm.... I like it here better."
"No kidding."
She slapped him on the shoulder. "Shut up. Sometimes I don't know what I see in you."
"Me either."
Relena laid her head on his shoulder. "Don't start that again."
Heero shook his head. "I won't Relena. I just have a lot on my mind. This whole thing with Quatre is disturbing."
"How so?"
"It..."
Heero interrupted by a knock on the door. Grimacing, he disentangled himself from Relena and got out of bed. Pulling his shorts out from the pile of clothing on the floor, he put them on. Leaving the bedroom, he opened the front door.
He blinked. Quatre stood outside, waiting. He turned around. "Oh! Heero! I'm glad you're here. I need to speak with you..." he trailed off. Standing behind Heero was Relena, clad only in a robe.
Quatre turned crimson. "I'm so sorry! I...I didn't know you had company...."
Relena smiled at the embarrassed Quatre. "Don't be. Come in Quatre."
"Whose room is this anyway? Yours or mine?"
"Shut up Heero."
"Hn."
Quatre grinned. Very rarely was anyone allowed to view the interplay between these two. "I can come back another time."
Heero shook his head. "Come in Quatre."
When Heero said it, it was a command, not a request. Quatre stepped into the room. Heero and Relena followed. Sitting on the couch, Heero beckoned for his guests to sit. Relena sat next to Heero and Quatre took an armchair. "You wanted to speak to me?"
Quatre nodded. He looked down at his folded hands. "Its about the ZERO system."
"The ZERO? What about it?" Heero asked.
"When Trowa and I came upon those guards attacking Sarit, I felt the exact same emotions that I did while under the ZERO's influence."
Heero shook his head. "That's impossible, Quatre. There are no more ZERO systems. The last was in Wing and its been destroyed."
"I know. But it was so strange..."
"Don't worry about it, Quatre." Relena said, getting up. "I think you have enough to occupy your mind with right now."
"Huh?"
She smiled. "The wedding?" Relena promoted
Quatre grimaced. "Oh, yeah. That."
Relena patted him on the shoulder. "It'll be fine, Quatre. I'm going to go get ready. I think my introduction has been put off too long."
"Hilde didn't present you to my uncle?"
Relena shook her head. "No. She didn't think it was wise. Not without you present."
"She's smart. How she ended up with Duo, I'll never know." Heero commented.
Quatre and Relena looked at each other and began to laugh.
Heero just glared.
* * * * *
Trowa strolled down the wide avenues of the Winner Gardens. He shoved his hands into the pockets of his jeans, staring idly at some rose bushes. He didn't really know why he came out here. He just had to get away from all the preparations in the mansion. Everyone was so excited about the upcoming wedding. It was almost pathetic the way the servants went about their tasks. They were positively giddy with excitement.
Unable to stand the commotion any longer, Trowa made a quick escape out into the gardens. He doubted that anyone would notice him missing. Relena was caught up with Safir. Duo and Hilde were too preoccupied with each other to notice much of anything. Wufei was indifferent to everything around him.
Heero was busy with the security arrangements. With Relena here, he wasn't about to take any chances of another kidnapping. And Quatre...
Trowa sighed, gazing up at the blue sky. Quatre seemed to be busy with the wedding preparations and Sarit. He didn't begrudge his friend the time spent with the young Arab girl. He was, after all, engaged to her. He bent down and picked up a rock from the stony path. He gazed at the varied colors. He could feel the texture of the stone as he gripped it tightly. His green eyes glazed over for a moment, remembering the past.
His was a difficult life. His childhood had been taken from him, as he was a mercenary soldier from the time he could walk. Then there was Operation Meteor. That was the beginning of his current problem. When he met his best friend. The only one who seemed to understand him.
Quatre Raberba Winner.
The young blond Arab who was from a well-known pacifistic family. Who had willingly allowed himself to be disinherited so he could fight for what he believed in. Trowa had grown to care for the young man. More so than he had realized. Until this marriage deal had come about.
His feelings were so confused now. Before, he had seen Quatre as his best friend. Nothing more and nothing less. They had helped each other through some very difficult times. He remembered vividly the days that he had lost his memory. When he had felt lost among the other Gundam Pilots. The uncertainty, the depression...Quatre had been there for him. Had helped him through that and many more situations since then.
Trowa moved among the flowers, his gaze seeing the past. /Those were difficult days. Quatre was so...frightened. Frightened of the ZERO system and what it had done to him. I know that he still blames himself for what happened to me. It's so obvious, so clear to me./ He sighed, gazing up at the blue sky, or what approximated as a sky in a colony. /Then why do I feel so...confused? Why does the prospect of Quatre marrying disturb me?/
Looking off into space, he closed his eyes. No outward expression marred his face, but inside, he was screaming. He had finally realized what his feelings were for the blond haired Arab. His legs refused to support him and he sank down onto a marble bench bonelessly. His arms were crossed over his knees as he stared blankly at a flowerbed across from him. His customary bang covered half his face, further obscuring his features. His mind, however, was on a long journey. A dark, black journey.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Before him, he was a child of six. He was dressed in nothing but someone's old coveralls. He was covered in grime and filthy. Like most children, he didn't seem to mind the dirt. But unlike other children, his eyes were cold, distant. They reflected the pain of the times he lived in.
Running a hand over his sweaty forehead, he replaced the wrench he had been using back to the toolbox. He sighed tiredly. He bent to pick up the toolbox, but froze. Something was off. There was someone here, someone he knew. He turned around, scanning the area. No one.
Then a hand gripped him from behind, pushing him against the wall hard. Nanashi turned a cold stare upon his assailant. As he expected, it was Veker. The man was an insatiable pedophile. He would molest local boys wherever they went. The last mission, there hadn't been any available. He thought briefly of struggling, but knew it to be futile. The man was three times his size and weight.
Nanashi stood silently, waiting for Veker to finish. This wasn't the first experience he had with the man. He knew from past occurrences that if he let the man have his way, he would be content with a few touches. No outward sign was visible, but he shuddered inwardly. Veker was not one to wait.
'This isn't the first time and it won't be the last. Veker isn't even the only one that does this. This is life. My life.'
These words were typical of the young boy's thoughts. He had come to realize at a very early age that a child's life in a mercenary corp was fraught with peril. Nanashi closed his eyes, waiting.
Something pinched him hard and his eyes popped open. His eyes widened momentarily at the sight before him.
Veker stood, his pants around his ankles. His cock stood at attention, obviously hard. Nanashi looked up, stunned. Never had Veker gone this far. At least, not with him. A fine line of fear crept up his spine. He gazed coldly at the large mercenary in front of him.
"No."
Veker smirked evilly. His eyes were filled with malice and a burning lust. His large hand reached out, grabbing Nanashi by the shoulder. He slammed the boy against the mobile suit leg that the child had been working on.
Nanashi shook his head, trying to clear it. The hard impact with the metal stunned him. Therefore, the small boy never noticed that Veker had succeeded in stripping him of his work pants. Nanashi struggled, trying to get away.
A hard blow came across his face, sending him sprawling to the ground. Veker held him down by his shoulders, his face screwed up in an evil smile. He moved forward, lifting the boy's ass. In one, hard thrust, Veker pushed his cock into Nanashi's virgin passage.
Nanashi threw his head back and screamed. The pain was like nothing he'd ever felt before. It was as if he was being split open from the inside.
Paying no attention to the struggling boy underneath him, Veker pushed in harder, ripping through delicate muscles. He felt the boy's blood flow, lubricating his own member. His member was only buried in half way, but the pleasure filling him drove him to push in deeper.
Shaking his head violently, Nanashi continued to scream. He didn't think it was possible, but the pain increased. He felt the muscles within him give; deep gashing wounds pouring forth his life's blood. He wanted to escape, to die.
'No...NO! This can't be happening...please...someone...make it stop! Make it stop!' The small boy screamed silently. Despite the overwhelming pain, he refused to cry out verbally. Minutes ticked by, though they seemed like hours to the distraught child. In a sudden burst of speed, Veker came hard into Nanashi.
The tall man wiped his forehead of sweat and pulled out of the boy. He finally looked down and noticed the child was bleeding badly. He shrugged. Wiping his cock of blood, he put his pants on and left.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Trowa snapped out of his memories with a gasp. He hadn't thought of that first time in years. Truth was, he tried to forget. Oh, how he wanted to forget. The pain had been excruciating. If one of the other mechanics hadn't come by, he would have surely bled to death. As it was, he had been in the infirmary for weeks, healing.
'Stop this right now. It's not doing you any good. The past is the past. It has no bearing on the future or the present. I have to get past this...why is it so hard for me? It's been year's...years! I'm not Nanashi anymore...I'm Trowa!'
He froze, his heart racing a mile a minute. He looked around wildly, his green eyes bright with fright. In his minds eye, he was still the small, frightened young boy. His eyes saw nothing except Veker looming over him, the man's large hands touching him, invading him. 'No...I'm not Trowa either.... I don't know who I am...what did Catherine call me? Triton? Is that who I am? Or am I Nanashi? Or Trowa?' Trowa clutched his head, his eyes closed in agony.
Striding down the garden path, Duo whistled, his hands in his pockets. He had to get away from all the activity in the mansion. He wasn't used to so much going on around him. He was used to a quiet life; at least he was now. Sure, he craved the odd adventure at times, but he was happy with his scavenging business with Hilde.
A smile crept over his features at the thought of her. He loved her so much. He had for a very long time. He was so glad that they had finally come together. Sighing, he walked down the flower-strewn path. His hands in his pockets, he blinked as he came around a corner. Trowa was sitting on the ground on his knees, his arms wrapped around himself. His body was moving from side to side, his eyes shut, obviously in pain.
"Trowa!" Duo rushed over, kneeling next to his friend. He took Trowa's shoulders in his hands, shaking the young man. "Trowa! Talk to me! What's wrong?!"
Trowa flinched from the touch of his friend. 'No...its him again...he's come back....' Trowa looked up with wide, frightened eyes. The eyes of a small frightened six year-old.
Shaking his head, Duo looked at his friend, stunned. Never since he had met Trowa, had he seen such a look in his face, in his eyes. He'd never seen Trowa so afraid. "Hey, Tro...its me. Duo. It's okay man. I won't hurt you."
Duo's braid, swishing in the wind, caught Trowa's attention. His eyes narrowed and he reached out and grabbed the swinging rope of hair. His delicate fingers closed over the rope of hair, pulling hard.
"AH, FUCK!!! Let go man! That hurts!!! Shit!"
Trowa blinked, coming out of his stupor. He looked up at his friend and gave a small smile. "Does this hurt Duo?" He pulled on the hair again.
"HELL YES IT HURTS!!!!! SHIT!!!!!!!"
Trowa smirked, dropping his friend's hair. Duo glared, holding his hair in his hands protectively. He patted the abraded end. "It's all right, baby. I won't let mean old Trowa hurt you again."
Trowa face vaulted.
"It's a miracle that the colonies were saved with you two as pilots."
Trowa looked up sharply, his senses on full alert. His eyes widened at the sight before him.
Duo, noticing Trowa's reaction, turned as well. His violet eyes narrowed, then widened alarmingly.
During their stay at the Winner Estate, all of the Gundam Pilots had been introduced to most of Quatre's sisters. They had all resembled him in a much smaller way. Iria was the only one who had his blond hair. All the others had darker complexions. They more resembled their father than anyone else. Which would explain Quatre's nickname of Angel among them.
The woman before them, however, looked nothing like the Winner sisters. She was of medium height, no taller than 5' 5". In fact, she was about the same height as Quatre. Her long platinum blonde hair fell down her back in a French braid. Her intense aquamarine eyes flashed at the two pilots.
Duo stared, open mouthed at her. It was uncanny...it was like seeing a female version of Quatre. A female version on the ZERO system. "Look...lady. I don't know who you are or where you come off with the chip on your shoulder..."
Her aqua eyes flashed, glaring hatefully at Duo. "Where do I come off?! You and your...friends...drag my baby brother out into battle, nearly get him killed, and you ask me where I /come off?!/" Her voice grew in volume as she continued to glare hatefully at Duo.
Trowa shook his head, holding his hands out in surrender. "Look. We're here because we're friends of Quatre's. We care about him."
Blinking, Duo stared at Trowa. 'Man...whatever was bugging him, sure must have scared the shit out of him! He never talks so much!'
Eyes narrowed, the female version of Quatre balled up a fist. In the blink of an eye, Trowa was sprawled on the ground on his back, the young woman's fist having connected solidly with his stomach. Turning on her heel, she walked out of the gardens, leaving a stunned Duo and a gasping Trowa behind.
Duo shook his head. He helped Trowa up. He smirked. "Feisty, ain't she?!"
"Hn." Trowa shook his head, standing up. He slapped the dirt off his pants and turned to Duo. "You wanted something?"
"Uh...yeah, actually. I came cuz I thought you could help me find Q-man."
Trowa's brow furrowed. "Why?"
Duo shrugged. "I just wanted to see how he was dealing with all this. It is kinda new to him. 'Sides...I wanna find out who Miss Bitchiness is."
Nodding, Trowa took Duo by the arm and led him out of the gardens. Duo, of course, protested all the way that his braid wasn't a leash.
* * * * *
After checking Quatre's quarters, they came upon a servant who gladly told them that Quatre was currently in the family chapel.
Duo and Trowa had blinked at that news. Neither had thought Quatre to be particularly religious. The young pilot of Gundam Sandrock had never previously shown much interest.
'Or was it that or we just never noticed before?' Duo mussed to himself as they approached the chapel. The door opened easily, no screeching of hinges alerted the occupant of his new arrivals.
The chapel was a brightly lit room. Unlike a Catholic chapel, there were no pews. The entire room was one open area. The room itself was circular in design. Large geometric shapes were cut into the wall, allowing for air and the sun to shine inside, giving the chapel a natural light.
The only ornaments were with Quatre himself. A large, ornately decorated rug was spread out on the floor. The rug, a mixture of maroon, green and orange, was fringed at all ends. Quatre stood in the center, his customary clothes now gone. In their place, he wore long baggy pants. They were an intense shade of blue, almost as deep as his eyes. Black slippers adorned his feet. A long tunic-like garment fell from his shoulders. It was embroidered in gold and silver. It too was a deep sapphire blue.
Quatre stood in an easterly direction, his profile barely visible to his comrades. His hands were raised to his ears, his lips moving, reciting something in Arabic. The two friends entered just as he finished speaking. His hands glided down to his waist, and he again began to speak. The words came out fluidly, no hesitation behind them. He then bowed from his hips, placing his hands on his knees. His words changed, but the flow and cadence did not. They poured out of his mouth gracefully, beautifully.
Duo and Trowa watched, spellbound, as the blond youth continued his service. It was obvious to them that this was indeed a prayer session. They didn't want to intrude on something so private, but were spellbound by their pilot's devotion. They had never seen him like this before. It was a new side of Quatre that they were witnessing.
The young Arab continued with his services, unaware of his friend's awe. Trowa and Duo's mouths both dropped open, watching Quatre. The young pilot of Gundam Sandrock fell to his knees, prostrating himself, again reciting some strange and beautiful words. He did this not once, but twice. In between, he stood on his knees, his words flowing gracefully, no hesitation whatsoever.
He then sat, crossing his legs. His words came faster, with more feeling to them. His last prayer, he spoke in English. It was heartfelt and sweet. Though he spoke quietly, almost whispering, the devotion in his voice was clear.
/Allah is most great. Allah is most great.
Allah is most great. Allah is most great.
I testify that there is no god except Allah
I testify that there is no god except Allah
I testify that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah
I testify that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah
Come to prayer! Come to prayer!
Come to success (in the life and
The Hereafter)! Come to success!
Allah is most great. Allah is most great.
There is no god except Allah./
Quatre whispered his benediction, and then bowed his head. Blinking, he stood. He turned around to pick up the rug when he spied Duo and Trowa in the doorway, watching him. He flushed a deep crimson, looking down. He hastily picked up the rug and began to roll it. "I...uh...didn't hear you come in."
It was Duo's turn to blush. He looked at his shoes, scuffing his foot. "Uh...well...we didn't want to disturb ya..."
"......."
Smiling, Quatre shook his head and finished wrapping up the rug. "That's all right, Duo. I don't mind. Its not a private affair, at any rate."
Duo blinked. "Its not? But it looked like you were..."
"Praying. Yes. It's not private. Not in Islam. We usually pray in a mosque with others." Quatre placed the rug in a corner of the room, making sure it wouldn't fall.
Fidgeting, Duo nodded. "Its just...I don't know. I ain't ever seen you pray before..."
Quatre turned his head, smiling at his friends. "I know. I didn't much while I was fighting. It seemed wrong to me then. But since peace has reigned for a while, I've gone back to my old ways. Or my father's ways. It's reassuring."
"Yeah, I can understand that." Duo sighed. Then his face screwed up in a frown. "Say...Quat. I got a question. A couple, actually."
Quatre shrugged, then nodded. He moved over to his friends, walking with them out of the chapel. "What did you want to ask?"
Duo looked over at Trowa, who shrugged. "Well...first off...why are you in that?!"
Chuckling, Quatre smiled up at Duo. "Oh. Well..." He flushed, looking down. "This is my...wedding costume."
Trowa turned his face away for a moment, his brow creasing in discontent. 'Of course...they're his wedding clothes. The wedding is to start this evening. Kuso! I should have known.'
Unaware of Trowa's troubled thoughts, Quatre went on. "It's customary to prepare early. The rest of you will have similar outfits. My uncle wants a traditional Islamic wedding. So...it's a little unusual compared to a western style wedding."
The trio continued to walk down the hallway, Quatre explaining the various nuances and customs of an Islamic wedding ceremony. They turned a corner and came face to face with the blonde whirlwind they had met earlier. Her aquamarine eyes flashed fire at the sight of Duo and Trowa. She launched herself at them, once again connecting with Trowa. Only this time, she slammed a fist into his jaw, sending the young pilot reeling against the opposite wall.
Duo snarled, glaring at the girl. "What the fuck do you want anyway?! Scram or face the might of Shinigami!"
The woman arched her eyebrow, smirking. Quatre knelt next to Trowa, helping him to his feet. "Are you okay, Trowa?"
"Hai." Trowa eyed the girl again. "You won't do that a third time."
"Oh, no? Try me." She replied in a dangerous tone.
Quatre sighed. He turned to Duo. "This is the other question you had, I suppose?"
"Hai...who is this bitch and who does she think she is?!" Duo replied, outraged.
"BITCH?????!!!!!!!!!!!"
Quatre held the girl at arms length, preventing her from attacking Duo. The resemblance between them was uncanny. Duo blinked. "Uh...."
Shaking his head, Quatre held her arms down, glaring at her. She sighed and nodded. He lifted his arms from her, turning to the others. "Allow me to introduce Cinq Quaterine Winner, my twin sister. Cinq, this is Duo Maxwell and Trowa Barton. Two of my best friends." He stressed the word friends at the end.
Cinq flinched. "All right...all right. I'll leave them alone."
"Thank you."
"You're welcome, little brother."
Quatre rolled his eyes. "What are you doing here? I thought you would still be on the research colony."
Cinq smirked. "You really thought I'd miss my twin's wedding?"
"Oh."
"Quatre?" Cinq asked, concerned. "Is everything all right?"
Quatre sighed, shaking his head. "Its fine. We have a lot to talk about, Cinq. But later. I have to show Duo and Trowa to their rooms. The ceremony begins soon."
"Fine. I want to go meet this bride of yours anyway." Cinq kissed him on the cheek, and then waved as she walked off.
Duo wrinkled his nose, turning to Quatre. "You have got to be kidding me. She's your /sister?!/"
Smirking, Quatre nodded. "My twin sister. She was born before me by about fifteen minutes."
Heaving a heavy sigh, Duo put his arm around his blond friend. "You have my undying sympathy. Really. She is just so...ugh."
"Arrogant? Bitchy? High and mighty?" Quatre supplied.
"Yeah...Oh, wait!" Duo glared at his friend. Quatre smirked. "You aren't the only one that she's like that with. She's that way with everybody. Except me."
"Hn."
Smiling at his friends, Quatre led the two down another corridor. They came to a large ornate door. Quatre opened it, letting his friend's precede him. Inside, was various garments displayed prominently around the room. Wufei and Heero were already present.
Quatre smiled at all his friends, though it was a bit forced. "I want to thank all of you for coming to this and helping me. Its not exactly what I had in mind when he came here."
"That's okay, Q-man! We're always ready to help." Duo replied enthusiastically.
"Thanks Duo. I appreciate it." Quatre turned to the others. "These are the formal wedding clothes that my ancestors brought with them from Earth. I've had them altered, and I want you guys to have them."
"Nani?!" A collective chorus from the other pilots could be heard.
"But, Quatre. These are your families. You should not give such priceless artifacts away." Wufei admonished his young friend.
Quatre shook his head. "No. It is customary in my family to give something away on your wedding day. I choose these and I want to give them to my best friends."
"Arigatou." Heero replied, looking around. His eyes narrowed. "Can a weapon be hidden among them?"
Nodding, Quatre led Heero to one set of clothing. The pants were long and baggy, in a light sky blue. The overall tunic was a sea green, with silver braiding. A white sash crossed over one shoulder, tying at the hip. Heero nodded in approval. He could easily hide his gun holster without notice.
Duo practically jumped up and down with excitement. He bit his lip, saying nothing. He couldn't wait to see what he got!
Quatre then led Wufei over to another set. This set of garments was very similar to what Wufei normally wore. However, the pants were a deep purple. The long tunic was almost a blood red. The ends of the tunic reached down to Wufei's knees. He also had a white sash, except it encircled his waist.
Wufei looked in the mirror and nodded. The colors were just right. The red was perfect for a wedding. It would also symbolize good luck and he had feeling they were going to need as much good luck as they could get.
Trowa blinked as Quatre approached. He steeled his own emotions, not letting anything leak through. He nodded to his friend. Quatre smiled and took Trowa over to another set of clothing. He blinked again, looking at the fine clothing before him.
It was a layered tunic, in earthy brown and gold. On the tunic was a large embroidered vest. Upon it was a detailed lion. The pants were long, as the others were. They were in a deep shade of brown. Trowa turned to look at Quatre, his eyes wide.
Quatre kept his gaze to the fabric of the garment. "I...hope you like it. I had the vest specially made. If you don't like it, you don't have to wear it...."
"Quatre."
Swallowing, Quatre looked up. He smiled at the light in Trowa's eyes. "I do like it. Thank you."
Turning to the garments, Trowa began to dress along with the others.
Duo fidgeted, trying not to say anything. He had been growing antsy ever since they got here. Quatre looked to Duo and smiled. He took his braided friend by the arm and steered him towards another outfit.
Blinking, Duo cocked his head from side to side, staring at it. It was long, easily coming to the floor. There was a pair of white pants. A top that was a light green shirt that came to his knees. Over that was a long dark green coat, which almost brushed the floor. Duo blinked again, then turned to Quatre. "Its not black."
Quatre tried to hide a grin underneath his hand. "No, Duo. It's not. Arabs don't wear black to weddings."
"But...I always wear black! It's my calling card, damnit! Shinigami does not wear green! He wears black!" Duo almost seethed. He couldn't even wear his favorite color?! The injustice!
Quatre continued to bite his lip to keep from laughing. "I'm sorry, Duo. It's tradition. If they saw you in black, they'd think it was a funeral, or an evil omen." He gave Duo his big puppy dog eyes stare. "Please? For me?"
Duo took a deep breath and exhaled loudly. "Oh, all right! But I ain't gonna like it! It ain't fittin'! It's an injustice I tell ya!"
The other pilots looked at each other and they all finally broke out laughing. Duo just hmphed and got dressed.
* * * * *
The wedding preparations were finally over. All was in readiness for the big event. It was to be a semi-traditional Islamic wedding. Due to the various government officials attending, some modifications had to be accounted for.
In a traditional Islamic wedding, the bride and groom did not see one another. The men were housed in one hall while the women were in another. Normally, this would have been fine. Except Vice Foreign Minister Peacecraft was a woman. Many of the talks would require her presence.
So, the wedding would be held in the largest hall of the Winner Estate. The local imam would preside over the affair.
The hall that had been designated for the wedding was one of the large, antique ballrooms of the old Winner Estate. The architecture was reminiscent of old Earth. Specifically what was once known as Persia. Geometric shapes were carved out of the stone ceiling, providing light. Or in this case, an extensive view of the stars beyond the hull of the main colony of L4. Stars could be seen, twinkling. The interior of the ballroom was painted a deep, sky blue. Arabic script was written in various patterns around the room. The words, scriptures from the Qu'ran, flowed across the walls in an elegant manner.
In the center of the room, a table sat. It was plain, unadorned. Upon it, rested documents and pen quills. Bottles of ink sat, opened, next to the quills. A veil sat to one side, while a large pendent was next to it.
A red carpet with golden fringe spanned the length of the hall, connecting the large double doors to the table. Musicians stood to the side, ready to begin their performance once the ceremony ended. To the far left of the hall, tables were spread out for the many guests. Most were already in attendance, conversing and waiting for the ceremony to begin.
Relena Peacecraft stood in silence, watching everything. Her friend, Hilde Schbeiker, stood next to her. Both were in the customary costumes of Islam. Neither wore face veils, but the long baggy pantaloons and embroidered vests showed both of their subtle bodies to great advantage. Hilde couldn't wait for Duo to see her.
Relena also wanted to see Heero's expression. She doubted it would be much different from his usual scowl, but she was hoping. She watched silently as a small drumbeat began to play. The gilded double doors opened and Safir Winner entered, with the imam and other Muslims. The small group walked in a single file to the central table. The imam stood behind, facing the guests. He took the documents in hand, going over them. Nodding in satisfaction, he waited.
Once again the double doors opened. Lutes began to play, and a large procession walked along the red ceremonial carpet. In the lead, was Quatre Raberba Winner. His blond hair was brushed back, his bangs hanging over his eyes. His aquamarine eyes were bright. He smiled and nodded to his various sisters as he passed them by. The blue of his costume brought out the intensity of his eyes. He looked to his other friends. Hilde and Relena. Behind him, he could hear the footsteps of his friends.
He approached the table slowly, bowing humbly before the imam. His gaze turned to his uncle, but quickly moved away. His four friends bowed as well, then departed to the side. This particular part of the ceremony Muslims were only allowed to participate in. Quatre sighed softly as he watched his friends walk off to the side. He hid a smirk when he saw Duo and Heero's expressions as they gazed at Hilde and Relena. He turned back to the table.
Another set of notes began, and the doors once again opened. This time, only three entered. Sarit Arania Kormit led the way, her father and Quatre's twin sister behind her. Cinq smiled reassuringly at her brother, and then stepped behind the bride.
Sarit came up next to Quatre. She was clad in the same shade of blue as he, only she had a sheer blue veil over her face. Her outfit was similar in design to Relena and Hilde's. Blue pantaloons with an embroidered vest. The only difference was her costume had sheer blue sleeves that went to her wrists. Quatre said nothing, only taking her hand reassuringly.
The imam watched the two carefully, gauging for any false reasons they would be here. Under the Islamic faith, a couple could not be forced into a marriage. Unknown to the imam that was exactly what was happening. But both young people were too duty bound to protest.
He held up his hand and the music stopped. The imam turned to Quatre and Sarit. "Both of you are here to join yourselves in marriage. I must ask this. Are both of you in full agreement to this act?"
Quatre turned to Sarit. His eyes spoke to her that she did not have to do this. She smiled at him in reassurance. 'But I do...'
"Yes, imam. I do."
Quatre sighed. "Yes, imam. I do as well."
The man nodded. "The gifts?"
Sarit reached for the pendant that was lying on the table. She turned, presenting it to Quatre. "This has been in my family for generations. I offer this to you, as a gift for our union."
Quatre took the proffered pendant. He slipped it over his head, laying it on his chest. It was gold, with a ruby stone in the center. He took her hand, kissing the knuckles. "I thank you, Sarit. In offering of our union, I wish to give you this veil. It belonged to my mother." Quatre took up the veil. It was gold and silver, tiny chips of diamonds embedded in it.
Sarit held her breath at the beauty of the veil. She allowed Quatre to remove hers and placed the new one on. She smiled up at him in gratitude.
The pair once again turned to the imam, who nodded. "Now it is time for the marriage contract. Are you prepared?"
Both nodded. Quatre turned slightly, facing the imam, his uncle, Sarit and the other guests. He spoke in a clear, calm voice.
/"In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful:
With His Help and Guidance
With all my trust put in Him
With my full awareness of responsibility
And with my free choice and freedom of will
I, Quatre Raberba Winner, solemnly propose to marry
Miss Sarit Arania Kormit, and take her as my wife, in accordance with the teachings of the Qur'an, and the Sunnah of our Prophet Muhammad ibn Abdullah.
I declare this solemn proposal before the present witnesses, praying Almighty Allah to be my witness.
Allah is the best of all witnesses./
The imam nodded. He looked to Sarit and she also took a similar position as Quatre. She looked at him as she recited.
/"In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful:
With His Help and Guidance
With all my trust put in Him
With my full awareness of responsibility
And with my free choice and freedom of will
I, Sarit Arania Kormit, accept your solemn proposal to take me as your wife in accordance with the teachings of the Qur'an, and the Sunnah of our Prophet Muhammad ibn Abdullah.
I make this declaration before the present witnesses, praying Almighty Allah to be my witness.
Allah is the best of all witnesses./
With the marriage contract complete, the imam then went into a lengthy marriage sermon. The couple stood patiently, listening attentatively. Neither spoke as they listened to the sermon. Both had heard it many times, thought neither thought to be the ones having it read to them. Once that was done, the marriage was officially announced.
Quatre turned to face his friends, Sarit's hand in his. He saw many faces, all of them happy, applauding the event. He didn't know what to feel.
* * * * *
Guests of the wedding each had a different take on the whole affair. The various politicians, dignitaries and business associates commented on the obvious love between the couple.
Heero Yuy watched the affair with little to no emotion on his face. Unlike most who had their eye on the young couple, Heero's eyes never left those of Safir. He was one of the few here who was privy to the actual reason for this marriage. He found that the circumstances were utterly ridiculous. According to the Islamic faith (which he had done research on) a young couple could not be forced into marriage. Both parties must want the union to take place.
The fact that Safir had obviously gone against tradition was a mystery to the young ex-Wing Zero pilot. /Now why would Safir do something that flaunted tradition? That goes against everything he supposedly stands for?' What is he up to? What is he planning?/
Trowa Barton watched from the sidelines, his body hidden by the large tapestry he stood near. He watched the entire proceedings, his heart in his throat. He felt as if a part of him was dying. As the imam pronounced the two wed, he turned his face away, heading for the gardens.
The tears sliding down his cheeks could have been interpreted as joyful tears. But he did not feel like explaining to anyone.
His best friend was married down. He should be happy. Sarit was a wonderful, loving girl. Quatre couldn't ask for a better wife.
But he wasn't. He was miserable. He felt as if his heart had broken into a million tiny pieces. His heart was shredded and he didn't know how or even if, he wanted to mend it. The long days before the wedding had given him time to reflect. Time to come to terms with his feelings.
He was in love with Quatre. And that love would never bear fruit for his friend was wedded now. Shit. I don't even know if he feels the same way. What am I talking about? Of course he doesn't feel the same way. He has a wife now. Why should he?
Taking a deep breath, Trowa wiped his tears away. Composing his features into his usual mask, he headed back in. He watched silently as his best friend thanked everyone for being there for the happiest day of his life. Inwardly, Trowa knew this was the worst day of his life.
/italics or thoughts/
Authors Note: This chapter contains some scenes of NCS (Non-Consensual Sex i.e. rape) Read at your own risk!
Chapter 9 - Wedding Bells
Duo and Heero found the others sometime later. Quickly regrouping, they prepared for an all out assault.
It never came.
The entire base seemed to be deserted. Duo and Heero related their conversation with General Kresch.
Quatre wasn't really surprised. Kresch had been an old adversary of his father's.
"Well, I think we scared him bad enough so you don't have to worry about him again!" Duo exclaimed, as they neared the gate.
"Maybe." Quatre remarked, still holding Sarit close.
Wufei stepped out of the gatehouse at that moment. "Took you long enough."
"We were delayed." Heero remarked.
"Sure. Is that why the entire base up and left?"
Duo smiled. "Yep. Heero here scared the living shit out of their commander!"
"Hn," was Heero's only reply.
Shaking his head, Wufei opened the gate. They all piled into the truck, Trowa once again driving.
* * * * *
Some hours later, Heero returned to his quarters. After they had arrived back at the mansion, the authorities had grilled Heero and Duo about their encounter with General Kresch. If Duo hadn't intervened, Heero would most definitely have killed at least one of those whining police officers.
Heero entered his room and felt something was off. Instinctively, he drew his gun and pointed it at a shadowy corner.
A feminine chuckle came from the corner. Then a young woman stepped out.
Relena Darlian Peacecraft smiled with amusement at her bodyguard/boyfriend. "Still wanting to kill me, huh?"
"Hn." Heero drew back the safety and placed the gun on a nearby table. "Watch it next time, Relena. I could have killed you."
Relena smiled. "I seem to remember a time when you wanted nothing more than to kill me."
He shrugged. "I was young then."
Smiling, she approached him. Putting her hand on his chest, she ran her fingers through his hair. "I missed seeing you when I arrived."
Heero took her hand from his chest and pulled her close. "It was important to get Sarit back. It was important to Quatre."
"And Heero Yuy never turns down a mission," Relena replied.
Heero just shrugged.
Relena gazed into his Prussian blue eyes and pouted. "Is this any way to greet your girlfriend? I thought better of you, Heero."
Placing his hands on her waist, he drew her taunt body towards his. Where their flesh touched, fire raced. Lowering his mouth to hers, Relena lost herself in his kiss.
She moaned when she felt Heero's tongue enter her sweet cavern. She moved her mouth in synch with his. She gasped, feeling his body grind against hers.
Pulling away, Heero traced her kiss-swollen lips with the tip of his finger. She smiled at the light and passion in his eyes. Bringing her close once again, his lips claimed hers as his. They lost themselves in each other once again, their moans muffled by the closing of the bedroom door.
* * * * *
Sarit sat at her vanity, brushing her hair. The bristled glided through her long, silky red hair.
It had been a couple hours since the return and she was still shaking. Never in her life had she experienced something so terrifying. The thought of being helpless while someone raped her was almost more than she could stand.
Getting up from the table, she went to the window. It was now very early in the morning. She sighed. She quickly got dressed for bed.
Once under the covers, she let her mind wander. A smile came to her lips. She remembered Quatre coming to her rescue. Her heart soared when she remembered his kiss. She briefly touched her fingers to her lips, remembering the sweetness of it.
She sighed. /Maybe..../
The thought left her as she fell into a deep sleep.
* * * * *
Quatre sat at his desk, sipping a cup of tea. He was having another bought of insomnia and working wasn't helping any. He put his pen down and sighed. He placed his head in his hands and groaned.
He didn't know what was happening to him. That whole episode with Sarit unnerved him. Not so much his feelings for her. She was a very beautiful woman. Who wouldn't find her attractive? No, not Sarit herself, but his reaction to her being in danger. For a split second when he and Trowa confronted those guards, Quatre would have killed. Gladly and without remorse.
That thought frightened him more than any other. He valued life above all else. The only other time he had felt this way had been during the war, when he was in the grips of the ZERO system.
He got up suddenly. He had to speak to Heero as soon as possible.
* * * * *
A very happy and content Relena snuggled against the warmth next to her.
"Stop that."
She giggled. Looking up at the deep Prussian blue eyes that had always captivated her, she smiled. "I forgot how nice it is to have you around!"
"Hn."
Relena quirked an eyebrow at Heero. She laid her head back on his shoulder, tracing circles along his chest with her finger. He groaned.
Smiling mischievously, she climbed on top of him. "Hmmm.... I like it here better."
"No kidding."
She slapped him on the shoulder. "Shut up. Sometimes I don't know what I see in you."
"Me either."
Relena laid her head on his shoulder. "Don't start that again."
Heero shook his head. "I won't Relena. I just have a lot on my mind. This whole thing with Quatre is disturbing."
"How so?"
"It..."
Heero interrupted by a knock on the door. Grimacing, he disentangled himself from Relena and got out of bed. Pulling his shorts out from the pile of clothing on the floor, he put them on. Leaving the bedroom, he opened the front door.
He blinked. Quatre stood outside, waiting. He turned around. "Oh! Heero! I'm glad you're here. I need to speak with you..." he trailed off. Standing behind Heero was Relena, clad only in a robe.
Quatre turned crimson. "I'm so sorry! I...I didn't know you had company...."
Relena smiled at the embarrassed Quatre. "Don't be. Come in Quatre."
"Whose room is this anyway? Yours or mine?"
"Shut up Heero."
"Hn."
Quatre grinned. Very rarely was anyone allowed to view the interplay between these two. "I can come back another time."
Heero shook his head. "Come in Quatre."
When Heero said it, it was a command, not a request. Quatre stepped into the room. Heero and Relena followed. Sitting on the couch, Heero beckoned for his guests to sit. Relena sat next to Heero and Quatre took an armchair. "You wanted to speak to me?"
Quatre nodded. He looked down at his folded hands. "Its about the ZERO system."
"The ZERO? What about it?" Heero asked.
"When Trowa and I came upon those guards attacking Sarit, I felt the exact same emotions that I did while under the ZERO's influence."
Heero shook his head. "That's impossible, Quatre. There are no more ZERO systems. The last was in Wing and its been destroyed."
"I know. But it was so strange..."
"Don't worry about it, Quatre." Relena said, getting up. "I think you have enough to occupy your mind with right now."
"Huh?"
She smiled. "The wedding?" Relena promoted
Quatre grimaced. "Oh, yeah. That."
Relena patted him on the shoulder. "It'll be fine, Quatre. I'm going to go get ready. I think my introduction has been put off too long."
"Hilde didn't present you to my uncle?"
Relena shook her head. "No. She didn't think it was wise. Not without you present."
"She's smart. How she ended up with Duo, I'll never know." Heero commented.
Quatre and Relena looked at each other and began to laugh.
Heero just glared.
* * * * *
Trowa strolled down the wide avenues of the Winner Gardens. He shoved his hands into the pockets of his jeans, staring idly at some rose bushes. He didn't really know why he came out here. He just had to get away from all the preparations in the mansion. Everyone was so excited about the upcoming wedding. It was almost pathetic the way the servants went about their tasks. They were positively giddy with excitement.
Unable to stand the commotion any longer, Trowa made a quick escape out into the gardens. He doubted that anyone would notice him missing. Relena was caught up with Safir. Duo and Hilde were too preoccupied with each other to notice much of anything. Wufei was indifferent to everything around him.
Heero was busy with the security arrangements. With Relena here, he wasn't about to take any chances of another kidnapping. And Quatre...
Trowa sighed, gazing up at the blue sky. Quatre seemed to be busy with the wedding preparations and Sarit. He didn't begrudge his friend the time spent with the young Arab girl. He was, after all, engaged to her. He bent down and picked up a rock from the stony path. He gazed at the varied colors. He could feel the texture of the stone as he gripped it tightly. His green eyes glazed over for a moment, remembering the past.
His was a difficult life. His childhood had been taken from him, as he was a mercenary soldier from the time he could walk. Then there was Operation Meteor. That was the beginning of his current problem. When he met his best friend. The only one who seemed to understand him.
Quatre Raberba Winner.
The young blond Arab who was from a well-known pacifistic family. Who had willingly allowed himself to be disinherited so he could fight for what he believed in. Trowa had grown to care for the young man. More so than he had realized. Until this marriage deal had come about.
His feelings were so confused now. Before, he had seen Quatre as his best friend. Nothing more and nothing less. They had helped each other through some very difficult times. He remembered vividly the days that he had lost his memory. When he had felt lost among the other Gundam Pilots. The uncertainty, the depression...Quatre had been there for him. Had helped him through that and many more situations since then.
Trowa moved among the flowers, his gaze seeing the past. /Those were difficult days. Quatre was so...frightened. Frightened of the ZERO system and what it had done to him. I know that he still blames himself for what happened to me. It's so obvious, so clear to me./ He sighed, gazing up at the blue sky, or what approximated as a sky in a colony. /Then why do I feel so...confused? Why does the prospect of Quatre marrying disturb me?/
Looking off into space, he closed his eyes. No outward expression marred his face, but inside, he was screaming. He had finally realized what his feelings were for the blond haired Arab. His legs refused to support him and he sank down onto a marble bench bonelessly. His arms were crossed over his knees as he stared blankly at a flowerbed across from him. His customary bang covered half his face, further obscuring his features. His mind, however, was on a long journey. A dark, black journey.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Before him, he was a child of six. He was dressed in nothing but someone's old coveralls. He was covered in grime and filthy. Like most children, he didn't seem to mind the dirt. But unlike other children, his eyes were cold, distant. They reflected the pain of the times he lived in.
Running a hand over his sweaty forehead, he replaced the wrench he had been using back to the toolbox. He sighed tiredly. He bent to pick up the toolbox, but froze. Something was off. There was someone here, someone he knew. He turned around, scanning the area. No one.
Then a hand gripped him from behind, pushing him against the wall hard. Nanashi turned a cold stare upon his assailant. As he expected, it was Veker. The man was an insatiable pedophile. He would molest local boys wherever they went. The last mission, there hadn't been any available. He thought briefly of struggling, but knew it to be futile. The man was three times his size and weight.
Nanashi stood silently, waiting for Veker to finish. This wasn't the first experience he had with the man. He knew from past occurrences that if he let the man have his way, he would be content with a few touches. No outward sign was visible, but he shuddered inwardly. Veker was not one to wait.
'This isn't the first time and it won't be the last. Veker isn't even the only one that does this. This is life. My life.'
These words were typical of the young boy's thoughts. He had come to realize at a very early age that a child's life in a mercenary corp was fraught with peril. Nanashi closed his eyes, waiting.
Something pinched him hard and his eyes popped open. His eyes widened momentarily at the sight before him.
Veker stood, his pants around his ankles. His cock stood at attention, obviously hard. Nanashi looked up, stunned. Never had Veker gone this far. At least, not with him. A fine line of fear crept up his spine. He gazed coldly at the large mercenary in front of him.
"No."
Veker smirked evilly. His eyes were filled with malice and a burning lust. His large hand reached out, grabbing Nanashi by the shoulder. He slammed the boy against the mobile suit leg that the child had been working on.
Nanashi shook his head, trying to clear it. The hard impact with the metal stunned him. Therefore, the small boy never noticed that Veker had succeeded in stripping him of his work pants. Nanashi struggled, trying to get away.
A hard blow came across his face, sending him sprawling to the ground. Veker held him down by his shoulders, his face screwed up in an evil smile. He moved forward, lifting the boy's ass. In one, hard thrust, Veker pushed his cock into Nanashi's virgin passage.
Nanashi threw his head back and screamed. The pain was like nothing he'd ever felt before. It was as if he was being split open from the inside.
Paying no attention to the struggling boy underneath him, Veker pushed in harder, ripping through delicate muscles. He felt the boy's blood flow, lubricating his own member. His member was only buried in half way, but the pleasure filling him drove him to push in deeper.
Shaking his head violently, Nanashi continued to scream. He didn't think it was possible, but the pain increased. He felt the muscles within him give; deep gashing wounds pouring forth his life's blood. He wanted to escape, to die.
'No...NO! This can't be happening...please...someone...make it stop! Make it stop!' The small boy screamed silently. Despite the overwhelming pain, he refused to cry out verbally. Minutes ticked by, though they seemed like hours to the distraught child. In a sudden burst of speed, Veker came hard into Nanashi.
The tall man wiped his forehead of sweat and pulled out of the boy. He finally looked down and noticed the child was bleeding badly. He shrugged. Wiping his cock of blood, he put his pants on and left.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Trowa snapped out of his memories with a gasp. He hadn't thought of that first time in years. Truth was, he tried to forget. Oh, how he wanted to forget. The pain had been excruciating. If one of the other mechanics hadn't come by, he would have surely bled to death. As it was, he had been in the infirmary for weeks, healing.
'Stop this right now. It's not doing you any good. The past is the past. It has no bearing on the future or the present. I have to get past this...why is it so hard for me? It's been year's...years! I'm not Nanashi anymore...I'm Trowa!'
He froze, his heart racing a mile a minute. He looked around wildly, his green eyes bright with fright. In his minds eye, he was still the small, frightened young boy. His eyes saw nothing except Veker looming over him, the man's large hands touching him, invading him. 'No...I'm not Trowa either.... I don't know who I am...what did Catherine call me? Triton? Is that who I am? Or am I Nanashi? Or Trowa?' Trowa clutched his head, his eyes closed in agony.
Striding down the garden path, Duo whistled, his hands in his pockets. He had to get away from all the activity in the mansion. He wasn't used to so much going on around him. He was used to a quiet life; at least he was now. Sure, he craved the odd adventure at times, but he was happy with his scavenging business with Hilde.
A smile crept over his features at the thought of her. He loved her so much. He had for a very long time. He was so glad that they had finally come together. Sighing, he walked down the flower-strewn path. His hands in his pockets, he blinked as he came around a corner. Trowa was sitting on the ground on his knees, his arms wrapped around himself. His body was moving from side to side, his eyes shut, obviously in pain.
"Trowa!" Duo rushed over, kneeling next to his friend. He took Trowa's shoulders in his hands, shaking the young man. "Trowa! Talk to me! What's wrong?!"
Trowa flinched from the touch of his friend. 'No...its him again...he's come back....' Trowa looked up with wide, frightened eyes. The eyes of a small frightened six year-old.
Shaking his head, Duo looked at his friend, stunned. Never since he had met Trowa, had he seen such a look in his face, in his eyes. He'd never seen Trowa so afraid. "Hey, Tro...its me. Duo. It's okay man. I won't hurt you."
Duo's braid, swishing in the wind, caught Trowa's attention. His eyes narrowed and he reached out and grabbed the swinging rope of hair. His delicate fingers closed over the rope of hair, pulling hard.
"AH, FUCK!!! Let go man! That hurts!!! Shit!"
Trowa blinked, coming out of his stupor. He looked up at his friend and gave a small smile. "Does this hurt Duo?" He pulled on the hair again.
"HELL YES IT HURTS!!!!! SHIT!!!!!!!"
Trowa smirked, dropping his friend's hair. Duo glared, holding his hair in his hands protectively. He patted the abraded end. "It's all right, baby. I won't let mean old Trowa hurt you again."
Trowa face vaulted.
"It's a miracle that the colonies were saved with you two as pilots."
Trowa looked up sharply, his senses on full alert. His eyes widened at the sight before him.
Duo, noticing Trowa's reaction, turned as well. His violet eyes narrowed, then widened alarmingly.
During their stay at the Winner Estate, all of the Gundam Pilots had been introduced to most of Quatre's sisters. They had all resembled him in a much smaller way. Iria was the only one who had his blond hair. All the others had darker complexions. They more resembled their father than anyone else. Which would explain Quatre's nickname of Angel among them.
The woman before them, however, looked nothing like the Winner sisters. She was of medium height, no taller than 5' 5". In fact, she was about the same height as Quatre. Her long platinum blonde hair fell down her back in a French braid. Her intense aquamarine eyes flashed at the two pilots.
Duo stared, open mouthed at her. It was uncanny...it was like seeing a female version of Quatre. A female version on the ZERO system. "Look...lady. I don't know who you are or where you come off with the chip on your shoulder..."
Her aqua eyes flashed, glaring hatefully at Duo. "Where do I come off?! You and your...friends...drag my baby brother out into battle, nearly get him killed, and you ask me where I /come off?!/" Her voice grew in volume as she continued to glare hatefully at Duo.
Trowa shook his head, holding his hands out in surrender. "Look. We're here because we're friends of Quatre's. We care about him."
Blinking, Duo stared at Trowa. 'Man...whatever was bugging him, sure must have scared the shit out of him! He never talks so much!'
Eyes narrowed, the female version of Quatre balled up a fist. In the blink of an eye, Trowa was sprawled on the ground on his back, the young woman's fist having connected solidly with his stomach. Turning on her heel, she walked out of the gardens, leaving a stunned Duo and a gasping Trowa behind.
Duo shook his head. He helped Trowa up. He smirked. "Feisty, ain't she?!"
"Hn." Trowa shook his head, standing up. He slapped the dirt off his pants and turned to Duo. "You wanted something?"
"Uh...yeah, actually. I came cuz I thought you could help me find Q-man."
Trowa's brow furrowed. "Why?"
Duo shrugged. "I just wanted to see how he was dealing with all this. It is kinda new to him. 'Sides...I wanna find out who Miss Bitchiness is."
Nodding, Trowa took Duo by the arm and led him out of the gardens. Duo, of course, protested all the way that his braid wasn't a leash.
* * * * *
After checking Quatre's quarters, they came upon a servant who gladly told them that Quatre was currently in the family chapel.
Duo and Trowa had blinked at that news. Neither had thought Quatre to be particularly religious. The young pilot of Gundam Sandrock had never previously shown much interest.
'Or was it that or we just never noticed before?' Duo mussed to himself as they approached the chapel. The door opened easily, no screeching of hinges alerted the occupant of his new arrivals.
The chapel was a brightly lit room. Unlike a Catholic chapel, there were no pews. The entire room was one open area. The room itself was circular in design. Large geometric shapes were cut into the wall, allowing for air and the sun to shine inside, giving the chapel a natural light.
The only ornaments were with Quatre himself. A large, ornately decorated rug was spread out on the floor. The rug, a mixture of maroon, green and orange, was fringed at all ends. Quatre stood in the center, his customary clothes now gone. In their place, he wore long baggy pants. They were an intense shade of blue, almost as deep as his eyes. Black slippers adorned his feet. A long tunic-like garment fell from his shoulders. It was embroidered in gold and silver. It too was a deep sapphire blue.
Quatre stood in an easterly direction, his profile barely visible to his comrades. His hands were raised to his ears, his lips moving, reciting something in Arabic. The two friends entered just as he finished speaking. His hands glided down to his waist, and he again began to speak. The words came out fluidly, no hesitation behind them. He then bowed from his hips, placing his hands on his knees. His words changed, but the flow and cadence did not. They poured out of his mouth gracefully, beautifully.
Duo and Trowa watched, spellbound, as the blond youth continued his service. It was obvious to them that this was indeed a prayer session. They didn't want to intrude on something so private, but were spellbound by their pilot's devotion. They had never seen him like this before. It was a new side of Quatre that they were witnessing.
The young Arab continued with his services, unaware of his friend's awe. Trowa and Duo's mouths both dropped open, watching Quatre. The young pilot of Gundam Sandrock fell to his knees, prostrating himself, again reciting some strange and beautiful words. He did this not once, but twice. In between, he stood on his knees, his words flowing gracefully, no hesitation whatsoever.
He then sat, crossing his legs. His words came faster, with more feeling to them. His last prayer, he spoke in English. It was heartfelt and sweet. Though he spoke quietly, almost whispering, the devotion in his voice was clear.
/Allah is most great. Allah is most great.
Allah is most great. Allah is most great.
I testify that there is no god except Allah
I testify that there is no god except Allah
I testify that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah
I testify that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah
Come to prayer! Come to prayer!
Come to success (in the life and
The Hereafter)! Come to success!
Allah is most great. Allah is most great.
There is no god except Allah./
Quatre whispered his benediction, and then bowed his head. Blinking, he stood. He turned around to pick up the rug when he spied Duo and Trowa in the doorway, watching him. He flushed a deep crimson, looking down. He hastily picked up the rug and began to roll it. "I...uh...didn't hear you come in."
It was Duo's turn to blush. He looked at his shoes, scuffing his foot. "Uh...well...we didn't want to disturb ya..."
"......."
Smiling, Quatre shook his head and finished wrapping up the rug. "That's all right, Duo. I don't mind. Its not a private affair, at any rate."
Duo blinked. "Its not? But it looked like you were..."
"Praying. Yes. It's not private. Not in Islam. We usually pray in a mosque with others." Quatre placed the rug in a corner of the room, making sure it wouldn't fall.
Fidgeting, Duo nodded. "Its just...I don't know. I ain't ever seen you pray before..."
Quatre turned his head, smiling at his friends. "I know. I didn't much while I was fighting. It seemed wrong to me then. But since peace has reigned for a while, I've gone back to my old ways. Or my father's ways. It's reassuring."
"Yeah, I can understand that." Duo sighed. Then his face screwed up in a frown. "Say...Quat. I got a question. A couple, actually."
Quatre shrugged, then nodded. He moved over to his friends, walking with them out of the chapel. "What did you want to ask?"
Duo looked over at Trowa, who shrugged. "Well...first off...why are you in that?!"
Chuckling, Quatre smiled up at Duo. "Oh. Well..." He flushed, looking down. "This is my...wedding costume."
Trowa turned his face away for a moment, his brow creasing in discontent. 'Of course...they're his wedding clothes. The wedding is to start this evening. Kuso! I should have known.'
Unaware of Trowa's troubled thoughts, Quatre went on. "It's customary to prepare early. The rest of you will have similar outfits. My uncle wants a traditional Islamic wedding. So...it's a little unusual compared to a western style wedding."
The trio continued to walk down the hallway, Quatre explaining the various nuances and customs of an Islamic wedding ceremony. They turned a corner and came face to face with the blonde whirlwind they had met earlier. Her aquamarine eyes flashed fire at the sight of Duo and Trowa. She launched herself at them, once again connecting with Trowa. Only this time, she slammed a fist into his jaw, sending the young pilot reeling against the opposite wall.
Duo snarled, glaring at the girl. "What the fuck do you want anyway?! Scram or face the might of Shinigami!"
The woman arched her eyebrow, smirking. Quatre knelt next to Trowa, helping him to his feet. "Are you okay, Trowa?"
"Hai." Trowa eyed the girl again. "You won't do that a third time."
"Oh, no? Try me." She replied in a dangerous tone.
Quatre sighed. He turned to Duo. "This is the other question you had, I suppose?"
"Hai...who is this bitch and who does she think she is?!" Duo replied, outraged.
"BITCH?????!!!!!!!!!!!"
Quatre held the girl at arms length, preventing her from attacking Duo. The resemblance between them was uncanny. Duo blinked. "Uh...."
Shaking his head, Quatre held her arms down, glaring at her. She sighed and nodded. He lifted his arms from her, turning to the others. "Allow me to introduce Cinq Quaterine Winner, my twin sister. Cinq, this is Duo Maxwell and Trowa Barton. Two of my best friends." He stressed the word friends at the end.
Cinq flinched. "All right...all right. I'll leave them alone."
"Thank you."
"You're welcome, little brother."
Quatre rolled his eyes. "What are you doing here? I thought you would still be on the research colony."
Cinq smirked. "You really thought I'd miss my twin's wedding?"
"Oh."
"Quatre?" Cinq asked, concerned. "Is everything all right?"
Quatre sighed, shaking his head. "Its fine. We have a lot to talk about, Cinq. But later. I have to show Duo and Trowa to their rooms. The ceremony begins soon."
"Fine. I want to go meet this bride of yours anyway." Cinq kissed him on the cheek, and then waved as she walked off.
Duo wrinkled his nose, turning to Quatre. "You have got to be kidding me. She's your /sister?!/"
Smirking, Quatre nodded. "My twin sister. She was born before me by about fifteen minutes."
Heaving a heavy sigh, Duo put his arm around his blond friend. "You have my undying sympathy. Really. She is just so...ugh."
"Arrogant? Bitchy? High and mighty?" Quatre supplied.
"Yeah...Oh, wait!" Duo glared at his friend. Quatre smirked. "You aren't the only one that she's like that with. She's that way with everybody. Except me."
"Hn."
Smiling at his friends, Quatre led the two down another corridor. They came to a large ornate door. Quatre opened it, letting his friend's precede him. Inside, was various garments displayed prominently around the room. Wufei and Heero were already present.
Quatre smiled at all his friends, though it was a bit forced. "I want to thank all of you for coming to this and helping me. Its not exactly what I had in mind when he came here."
"That's okay, Q-man! We're always ready to help." Duo replied enthusiastically.
"Thanks Duo. I appreciate it." Quatre turned to the others. "These are the formal wedding clothes that my ancestors brought with them from Earth. I've had them altered, and I want you guys to have them."
"Nani?!" A collective chorus from the other pilots could be heard.
"But, Quatre. These are your families. You should not give such priceless artifacts away." Wufei admonished his young friend.
Quatre shook his head. "No. It is customary in my family to give something away on your wedding day. I choose these and I want to give them to my best friends."
"Arigatou." Heero replied, looking around. His eyes narrowed. "Can a weapon be hidden among them?"
Nodding, Quatre led Heero to one set of clothing. The pants were long and baggy, in a light sky blue. The overall tunic was a sea green, with silver braiding. A white sash crossed over one shoulder, tying at the hip. Heero nodded in approval. He could easily hide his gun holster without notice.
Duo practically jumped up and down with excitement. He bit his lip, saying nothing. He couldn't wait to see what he got!
Quatre then led Wufei over to another set. This set of garments was very similar to what Wufei normally wore. However, the pants were a deep purple. The long tunic was almost a blood red. The ends of the tunic reached down to Wufei's knees. He also had a white sash, except it encircled his waist.
Wufei looked in the mirror and nodded. The colors were just right. The red was perfect for a wedding. It would also symbolize good luck and he had feeling they were going to need as much good luck as they could get.
Trowa blinked as Quatre approached. He steeled his own emotions, not letting anything leak through. He nodded to his friend. Quatre smiled and took Trowa over to another set of clothing. He blinked again, looking at the fine clothing before him.
It was a layered tunic, in earthy brown and gold. On the tunic was a large embroidered vest. Upon it was a detailed lion. The pants were long, as the others were. They were in a deep shade of brown. Trowa turned to look at Quatre, his eyes wide.
Quatre kept his gaze to the fabric of the garment. "I...hope you like it. I had the vest specially made. If you don't like it, you don't have to wear it...."
"Quatre."
Swallowing, Quatre looked up. He smiled at the light in Trowa's eyes. "I do like it. Thank you."
Turning to the garments, Trowa began to dress along with the others.
Duo fidgeted, trying not to say anything. He had been growing antsy ever since they got here. Quatre looked to Duo and smiled. He took his braided friend by the arm and steered him towards another outfit.
Blinking, Duo cocked his head from side to side, staring at it. It was long, easily coming to the floor. There was a pair of white pants. A top that was a light green shirt that came to his knees. Over that was a long dark green coat, which almost brushed the floor. Duo blinked again, then turned to Quatre. "Its not black."
Quatre tried to hide a grin underneath his hand. "No, Duo. It's not. Arabs don't wear black to weddings."
"But...I always wear black! It's my calling card, damnit! Shinigami does not wear green! He wears black!" Duo almost seethed. He couldn't even wear his favorite color?! The injustice!
Quatre continued to bite his lip to keep from laughing. "I'm sorry, Duo. It's tradition. If they saw you in black, they'd think it was a funeral, or an evil omen." He gave Duo his big puppy dog eyes stare. "Please? For me?"
Duo took a deep breath and exhaled loudly. "Oh, all right! But I ain't gonna like it! It ain't fittin'! It's an injustice I tell ya!"
The other pilots looked at each other and they all finally broke out laughing. Duo just hmphed and got dressed.
* * * * *
The wedding preparations were finally over. All was in readiness for the big event. It was to be a semi-traditional Islamic wedding. Due to the various government officials attending, some modifications had to be accounted for.
In a traditional Islamic wedding, the bride and groom did not see one another. The men were housed in one hall while the women were in another. Normally, this would have been fine. Except Vice Foreign Minister Peacecraft was a woman. Many of the talks would require her presence.
So, the wedding would be held in the largest hall of the Winner Estate. The local imam would preside over the affair.
The hall that had been designated for the wedding was one of the large, antique ballrooms of the old Winner Estate. The architecture was reminiscent of old Earth. Specifically what was once known as Persia. Geometric shapes were carved out of the stone ceiling, providing light. Or in this case, an extensive view of the stars beyond the hull of the main colony of L4. Stars could be seen, twinkling. The interior of the ballroom was painted a deep, sky blue. Arabic script was written in various patterns around the room. The words, scriptures from the Qu'ran, flowed across the walls in an elegant manner.
In the center of the room, a table sat. It was plain, unadorned. Upon it, rested documents and pen quills. Bottles of ink sat, opened, next to the quills. A veil sat to one side, while a large pendent was next to it.
A red carpet with golden fringe spanned the length of the hall, connecting the large double doors to the table. Musicians stood to the side, ready to begin their performance once the ceremony ended. To the far left of the hall, tables were spread out for the many guests. Most were already in attendance, conversing and waiting for the ceremony to begin.
Relena Peacecraft stood in silence, watching everything. Her friend, Hilde Schbeiker, stood next to her. Both were in the customary costumes of Islam. Neither wore face veils, but the long baggy pantaloons and embroidered vests showed both of their subtle bodies to great advantage. Hilde couldn't wait for Duo to see her.
Relena also wanted to see Heero's expression. She doubted it would be much different from his usual scowl, but she was hoping. She watched silently as a small drumbeat began to play. The gilded double doors opened and Safir Winner entered, with the imam and other Muslims. The small group walked in a single file to the central table. The imam stood behind, facing the guests. He took the documents in hand, going over them. Nodding in satisfaction, he waited.
Once again the double doors opened. Lutes began to play, and a large procession walked along the red ceremonial carpet. In the lead, was Quatre Raberba Winner. His blond hair was brushed back, his bangs hanging over his eyes. His aquamarine eyes were bright. He smiled and nodded to his various sisters as he passed them by. The blue of his costume brought out the intensity of his eyes. He looked to his other friends. Hilde and Relena. Behind him, he could hear the footsteps of his friends.
He approached the table slowly, bowing humbly before the imam. His gaze turned to his uncle, but quickly moved away. His four friends bowed as well, then departed to the side. This particular part of the ceremony Muslims were only allowed to participate in. Quatre sighed softly as he watched his friends walk off to the side. He hid a smirk when he saw Duo and Heero's expressions as they gazed at Hilde and Relena. He turned back to the table.
Another set of notes began, and the doors once again opened. This time, only three entered. Sarit Arania Kormit led the way, her father and Quatre's twin sister behind her. Cinq smiled reassuringly at her brother, and then stepped behind the bride.
Sarit came up next to Quatre. She was clad in the same shade of blue as he, only she had a sheer blue veil over her face. Her outfit was similar in design to Relena and Hilde's. Blue pantaloons with an embroidered vest. The only difference was her costume had sheer blue sleeves that went to her wrists. Quatre said nothing, only taking her hand reassuringly.
The imam watched the two carefully, gauging for any false reasons they would be here. Under the Islamic faith, a couple could not be forced into a marriage. Unknown to the imam that was exactly what was happening. But both young people were too duty bound to protest.
He held up his hand and the music stopped. The imam turned to Quatre and Sarit. "Both of you are here to join yourselves in marriage. I must ask this. Are both of you in full agreement to this act?"
Quatre turned to Sarit. His eyes spoke to her that she did not have to do this. She smiled at him in reassurance. 'But I do...'
"Yes, imam. I do."
Quatre sighed. "Yes, imam. I do as well."
The man nodded. "The gifts?"
Sarit reached for the pendant that was lying on the table. She turned, presenting it to Quatre. "This has been in my family for generations. I offer this to you, as a gift for our union."
Quatre took the proffered pendant. He slipped it over his head, laying it on his chest. It was gold, with a ruby stone in the center. He took her hand, kissing the knuckles. "I thank you, Sarit. In offering of our union, I wish to give you this veil. It belonged to my mother." Quatre took up the veil. It was gold and silver, tiny chips of diamonds embedded in it.
Sarit held her breath at the beauty of the veil. She allowed Quatre to remove hers and placed the new one on. She smiled up at him in gratitude.
The pair once again turned to the imam, who nodded. "Now it is time for the marriage contract. Are you prepared?"
Both nodded. Quatre turned slightly, facing the imam, his uncle, Sarit and the other guests. He spoke in a clear, calm voice.
/"In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful:
With His Help and Guidance
With all my trust put in Him
With my full awareness of responsibility
And with my free choice and freedom of will
I, Quatre Raberba Winner, solemnly propose to marry
Miss Sarit Arania Kormit, and take her as my wife, in accordance with the teachings of the Qur'an, and the Sunnah of our Prophet Muhammad ibn Abdullah.
I declare this solemn proposal before the present witnesses, praying Almighty Allah to be my witness.
Allah is the best of all witnesses./
The imam nodded. He looked to Sarit and she also took a similar position as Quatre. She looked at him as she recited.
/"In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful:
With His Help and Guidance
With all my trust put in Him
With my full awareness of responsibility
And with my free choice and freedom of will
I, Sarit Arania Kormit, accept your solemn proposal to take me as your wife in accordance with the teachings of the Qur'an, and the Sunnah of our Prophet Muhammad ibn Abdullah.
I make this declaration before the present witnesses, praying Almighty Allah to be my witness.
Allah is the best of all witnesses./
With the marriage contract complete, the imam then went into a lengthy marriage sermon. The couple stood patiently, listening attentatively. Neither spoke as they listened to the sermon. Both had heard it many times, thought neither thought to be the ones having it read to them. Once that was done, the marriage was officially announced.
Quatre turned to face his friends, Sarit's hand in his. He saw many faces, all of them happy, applauding the event. He didn't know what to feel.
* * * * *
Guests of the wedding each had a different take on the whole affair. The various politicians, dignitaries and business associates commented on the obvious love between the couple.
Heero Yuy watched the affair with little to no emotion on his face. Unlike most who had their eye on the young couple, Heero's eyes never left those of Safir. He was one of the few here who was privy to the actual reason for this marriage. He found that the circumstances were utterly ridiculous. According to the Islamic faith (which he had done research on) a young couple could not be forced into marriage. Both parties must want the union to take place.
The fact that Safir had obviously gone against tradition was a mystery to the young ex-Wing Zero pilot. /Now why would Safir do something that flaunted tradition? That goes against everything he supposedly stands for?' What is he up to? What is he planning?/
Trowa Barton watched from the sidelines, his body hidden by the large tapestry he stood near. He watched the entire proceedings, his heart in his throat. He felt as if a part of him was dying. As the imam pronounced the two wed, he turned his face away, heading for the gardens.
The tears sliding down his cheeks could have been interpreted as joyful tears. But he did not feel like explaining to anyone.
His best friend was married down. He should be happy. Sarit was a wonderful, loving girl. Quatre couldn't ask for a better wife.
But he wasn't. He was miserable. He felt as if his heart had broken into a million tiny pieces. His heart was shredded and he didn't know how or even if, he wanted to mend it. The long days before the wedding had given him time to reflect. Time to come to terms with his feelings.
He was in love with Quatre. And that love would never bear fruit for his friend was wedded now. Shit. I don't even know if he feels the same way. What am I talking about? Of course he doesn't feel the same way. He has a wife now. Why should he?
Taking a deep breath, Trowa wiped his tears away. Composing his features into his usual mask, he headed back in. He watched silently as his best friend thanked everyone for being there for the happiest day of his life. Inwardly, Trowa knew this was the worst day of his life.