The Shinigami rewrites - DragonLance Chronicles.
Gundam Wing isn't mine. DragonLance isn't mine. Nothing is mine, not even my hair colour.
I thought that with all the descriptions of Duo, it would be funny to see Heero interact with a kender. Then I thought of this. Shounen ai, X-over, AU. Duo as a kender... scary. Be afraid. Be very, very afraid.
Thoughts
Flashbacks
Chapter 6
Heero sighed, they had fought long and hard to gain the Hammer of Kharas. Sturm was put out that they were handing over one of the keys to forging the DragonLances. Heero didn't care. I want to go home. But Duo is determined to help defeat the Dragonarmies. I'll stay, for his sake. He listened to the dwarven bard. The song was based on the exploits of the group.
@~@~@~@
From the north came danger, as we knew it would: In the vanguard of winter, a dragon's dance Unravelled the land, until out of the forest, Out of the plains they came, from the mothering earth, The sky unreckoned before them. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
One from a garden of stone arising, From dwarf-halls, from weather and wisdom, Where the heart and mind ride unquestioned In the untapped vein of the hand. In his fathering arms, the spirit gathered. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
One from a haven of breezes descending, Light in the handling air, To the waving meadows, the kender's country, Where the grain out of smallness arises itself To grow green and golden and green again. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
The next from the plains, the long land's keeping, Nurtured in distance, horizons of nothing. Bearing a staff she came, and a burden Of mercy and light converged in her hand: Bearing the wounds of the world she came. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
The next from the plains, in the moon's shadow, Through custom, through ritual, trailing the moon Where her phases, her wax and her wane, controlled The tide of his blood, and his warrior's hand Ascended through hierarchies of space into light. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
One from the stars, called to the land, The warrior bound to the kender and elf: His strength and his silence hide his soul, Seeming alone, yet bound by love, His heart belongs to the world and his friends. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
One in the heart of honour, formed by the sword, By the centuries' flight of the kingfisher over the land, By Solamnia, ruined and risen, rising again When the heart ascends into duty. As it dances, the sword is forever an heirloom. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
The next in a simple light a brother to darkness, Letting the sword hand try all subtleties, Even the intricate webs of the heart. His thoughts Are pools disrupted in changing wind- He cannot see their bottom. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
The next, the leader, half-elven, betrayed As the twining blood pulls asunder the land, The forests, the worlds of elves and men. Called into bravery, but fearing for love, And fearing that, called into both, he does nothing. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
The last from darkness, breathing the night Where the abstract stars hide a nest of words, Where the body endures the wound of numbers, Surrendered to knowledge, until, unable to bless, His blessing falls on the low, the benighted. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
Joined by others they were in the telling: A graceless girl, graced beyond graces; A princess of seeds and saplings, called to the forest; An ancient weaver of accidents; A kender, a lord among elves; The golden-haired healer of hearts. Nor can we say who the story will gather. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
@~@~@~@
He sighed. This was important. The people would now get shelter through the winter. But Sturm seemed to be complaining still. He'd be better off complaining about that ridiculous 'song'. Duo still hadn't forgiven Sturm for taking Eben's part against him. Heero, Trowa and Quatre stood by him. Trowa and Quatre were now standing near Tanis. Duo lightly touched his shoulder. "You alright quisalas?" Heero smiled at his love. Duo stayed by him now. They had agreed that they had quite a scare in Pax Tharkas, and Duo made sure he wasn't far from the rest of them now. Good. I don't want to lose him. But what is it with this 'quisalas' business? Heero shrugged it off. He saw Tanis leading Sturm in their general direction, and they began to argue. Duo sighed softly. "Tanis is claustrophobic you know. I can't blame him. Even I feel cramped here, and we both know you aren't supposed to get claustrophobia in a Gundam's cockpit." Heero smiled, touching Duo's arm. He jerked his head towards the doors. Duo nodded. They could see that Raistlin had joined the two arguing. Heero shuddered when he heard Raistlin give out that awful laugh, as he and Sturm walked back inside. Duo sighed. They looked at Tanis, sharing a silent understanding.
Duo and Heero were standing near Sturm at the council. They listened to his sarcastic comments. Duo sighed. "He's just impossible Hee-Chan. They all are. Let's get out of here, before I lose my lunch." Heero nodded. They saw Quatre and Trowa walk over, and the four of them left the meeting. "We can get the basics from Tanis later." Duo noted wryly. They drew near later, to an argument between Tanis and Laurana. Duo scowled. "She's worse than Relena was!" With that complaint, he moved forward. As Tanis scolded her, he thoughtlessly said 'you elves'. Duo flinched as Laurana seized on that, and scorned him, bringing Kitiara into it. Duo finally broke into the heated argument. "Lauralanthalasa, stop being such a spoiled brat." The elven girl stared at Duo in shock. Duo continued scornfully. "When you talk like this, I'm ashamed to be elven. With an attitude like yours, it's no wonder the half-elves pull away. You make me sick." Then his voice grew quieter. "I've known someone else like you. A human girl, who thought she could have anything and anyone she wanted. At least a human grows up. I sincerely doubt you will. At least, not in the lifetimes of the people here." Ignoring Laurana's stricken look, Duo turned on his heel, and walked away.
The other pilots followed him. Tanis sighed as Laurana ran off into the mountain. Duo's words appear to have hit home. He walked towards the pilots. In a way he was justified. Laurana hasn't done him any favours, even though he's backed Gilthanas up every turn. But still. I'll talk with him, see if he can let up on her a little. Otherwise it will be an uncomfortable trip. Especially since the other three follow Duo's lead with the others.
***
Heero glanced around him. Due to Duo's problems with Sturm and Laurana, they were walking away from them both. Quatre was talking to Elistan animatedly, while Laurana listened. Just as well Quatre doesn't let Duo's mood affect him. And of course, he finds it impossible to be rude to a lady. He was even able to find a kind word for Relena at her worst. Heero smiled. Duo's bad mood meant that they weren't near Tanis. Trowa was near Raistlin and Tika. He was able to assist where Tika got told off. Between them, they managed to keep Raistlin moving. Then he glanced around, when he felt a snowball hit his head. To his relief, he heard Duo giggle. Finally he's getting back to normal. Then, he turned, walking backwards, to face Tas. He gave the kender a death glare. Tas just giggled. Then he picked up another handful of snow, and threw it straight at Heero's face. Duo glanced back, and grinned. "Stop it Tas. I don't think that's conducive to a long life somehow." "Why not?" Tas wanted to know. "Cause Heero's strong enough to bend steel. I don't think breaking a kender's neck will be any problem, somehow." Tas giggled, then promised not to hit Heero anymore. Promptly, a snowball hit the back of Duo's head. Duo stopped for a second. Then, he fell forward. Heero glanced down, puzzled. Tas seemed worried. "Duo, I- I'm sorry, I didn't mean..." then abruptly, he was hit square in the face with a snowball. Duo grinned. "Gotcha!" Tas laughed. But they couldn't get into a snowball fight. "Tasslehoff, Duo, please settle down." They gave mock sighs, and did as Tanis said. They shared a giggling promise to have a real snowball fight later. And Heero wasn't allowed to back out. They travelled in silence for a moment, then Sturm called out. They had reached Tarsis.
***
Sally sighed. There had been no contact from the boys since they had gone looking for Heero. But then, Duo had said that. They were out of range of the radios, so they had to be patient. She glanced at the page in front of her. The trip to this planet took some time, even with the fastest shuttle, which the boys had taken, it took close to a month. If the boys needed help, no-one would know. She glanced at the others. Noin and Une watched her. Then they made up their minds. "We'll go after them. After all, we have no idea how Heero, of all people, came to crash there." Lady Une nodded. "That is a good idea. Should we take others with us?" Sally thought, then shook her head. "We'll take Catherine, since she's so worried about Trowa and Quatre. Besides, Duo noted in his last transmission that the society there is little to no technology. That means we'd better not show the guns, since he didn't think it wise to upset the balance there. Catherine's knives will come in handy." "Is there anyone else that we should inform?" "Probably Relena, and... do the other boys have relatives or friends that should be warned that they might need help?" "Um, I don't think so. Wufei only has the preventers, and we already know what's happening. Duo and Heero... they have Relena, and Hilde[i], but no- one else. Quatre has his sisters, and Catherine. Trowa has Catherine." "Maybe we should ask Dorothy." That was Noin. She had been silent so far. "Dorothy Catalonia? Why?" "She's good with a sword, Sally. If Duo is right about using low-tech weapons, then we'll need people who can use weapons other than guns, thus, Catherine's knives." The three women nodded. They would leave soon. Dorothy, Catherine, myself, Sally, and Noin. Une smiled slightly. I wonder what this new world holds.
***
Duo growled. Tarsis the Beautiful. Landlocked. They were stuck. Heero silently pulled him closer. He remembered Raistlin's words. 'you are wise to trust your feelings' He smiled briefly. That sounded like something that Heero would say. He gripped Heero's hand, as they discussed what they would do next. He noticed Tas slipping out the door. Lightly, he touched Heero's arm, and they rose to their feet silently. They made their way to the door to find Tas. They watched as he reached the end of the street. Then, the kender tilted his head to one side, and then he lifted the hoopak, and swung it. Heero already had his hands over his ears. He'd heard that thing often enough. They looked at each other, then at Tas, then at the guards heading their way. They waited only long enough for Tas to catch up, then raced back to the inn. They had to verify that Tas hadn't done anything, but then Tanis quickly took charge again. "Laurana, you and Elistan go upstairs. Sturm, you and Gilthanas remain with me. The rest of you go to your rooms." "Yes daddy," Duo responded cheekily. He tuned out most of Tanis' words. "I know you four like to make your own decisions, so Heero? What do you all want to do?" The four pilots glanced at each other. Then Heero made the choice. "Trowa, you go, and Duo. I'll stay here with Quatre. We'll be better at defence, while you two are better at remaining unnoticed." Trowa nodded, while Duo frowned. "Okay Heero, but-" Heero nodded with a little smile. "Only if you promise the same koi." Duo smiled. "Alright quisalas." Then he handed Heero his scythe. "Take care, love."
***
"That's them! There's the knight, like I told you. And the bearded elf, the dwarf, and the kender, the long-haired elf in black, and an elflord. Duo rolled his eyes, and whispered to Trowa. "Kender and elves and dwarves, oh my!" Trowa shook his head. "Stop it Duo." As they were led away, Duo glanced back. He saw Laurana and Heero, looking out. Laurana said something. Most likely to Tanis. And Heero just watched. Duo gave his love a sweet smile, and turned away.
***
Duo smirked. The crowds had no idea what they were getting into. He knew the look on Tas' face. He'd worn it himself often enough. The kender was preparing to taunt. Foul knight, elven scum. How unoriginal. If I didn't know Tas was going to answer for all of us, I'd be taunting them myself. "Is that your nose or a disease? Can those fleas crawling on your body do tricks? Was your mother a gully dwarf?" Tas was in fine form. Trowa's eyes were a little wide. He whispered in Duo's ear. "I thought that was just you! Are all kender like that?" Duo smiled slightly. "More or less. Tas is obviously a master." If anything, Trowa looked more worried. The crowd by this time had turned into a mob. Duo smirked as he heard Tas call out again. "Hey constable, you know what you could do with that whistle? You could-" Tas cut off. Duo frowned, and looked for the kender. He was gone. Then Duo stared. "Tro, look over there." Trowa followed Duo's gaze. Then he gasped, as a solitary figure put his finger to his lips, in an age old gesture of silence. Duo smiled in relief. "Wu," he whispered.
***
Wufei watched as his friends were led away. Duo had used the sound of the crowd to call something out in Japanese. Red Dragon Inn. So that must be where they were staying. That is Maxwell and Barton. So where is Winner and Yuy? At the inn? Wufei paused, then shook his head. I will check whether Yuy and Winner are at the inn, and then I will return to the library. With a click of his fingers, Wufei turned to the direction that Duo and Trowa had come from, where after a short walk, he came across the Red Dragon Inn. He looked up at the windows. Several figures were keeping watch out of the window. One of them was Heero. Wufei pulled back the hood he had been wearing, and looked up at the window. Heero's eyes widened, and he gestured to someone inside. After a moment, Quatre's face appeared at the window. Wufei nodded, as Heero asked him, or rather mouthed, in Japanese, if he had seen Duo and Trowa. Heero frowned, then said something to the others in the room, while Quatre mouthed down that Heero would be out to talk to him.
Heero frowned, deep in thought. He had told Riverwind that he would return shortly. So Wufei is here. It doesn't look like Duo told him anything, unless Trowa told him everything in that silent way. But one of them must have given him the name of this inn. He gave a little smirk. Quatre had better watch himself. Caramon will get pissed off it he doesn't stop ogling Tika. Just because she looks like Catherine... "Yuy," Wufei said. "Hn," Heero responded. They waited a moment, then Heero spoke again. "How long?" "Several months. I have been hiding in a library." "Alone? What have you heard of the armies in the north?" "Not always alone, there was a crazy elven onna for a while. On the other, I have heard a great deal. Most dismiss them as rumours." "They are true. And as for elves... Duo turned out to be half-elven." "There are many races, what is the other half?" "Kender." Now Heero his a smirk at the look of abject horror crossing Wufei's face. Obviously he had encountered one of the merry thieves of Krynn. "That explains much, Did you find out his true name?" was all Wufei would say on the subject. "I will return to the library. When do you plan on leaving?" "For the most, we listen to Tanis. Duo insists on fighting in this war. In a way, I guess I can't blame him. The war with OZ was orders. This is personal." "How so?" "Duo's father is a high ranking elven noble. These dragonarmies want to wipe the elves into oblivion. By the way, his name is Shinigami Padruig, since you asked." Wufei nodded. "So we all remain." Heero, having used up his word quota for the next month or so, just nodded. "Wait, Shinigami? What is an elf doing with a Japanese name?" He shook his head impatiently. "Anyway, now I know the truth of these rumours, I will warn you of a curious figure I have observed in the city. Heavily clothed, and hidden. They seem suspicious." To Wufei's amazement, Heero looked terrified. Well, terrified for Heero. "Clothing that looks like it could be hiding wings?" Wufei frowned. "You've seen them," "Yes, but not here. Back to the north. They look like a man mixed with a lizard." Wufei was shocked. "What are those things?" "I'm not sure. Raistlin said they aren't natural. All the things you read about in Duo's fantasy novels, they're real. Dragons, Unicorns, Centaurs... it's all real. I've seen it for myself." Wufei had no answer.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----
Trowa looked deep in thought. Duo sighed heavily. They were being marched further away from the inn. It was a deserted part of town, and strangely run down. When Alhana acted haughty about Tanis' heritage, Duo spoke confidently. "I am Shinigami Padruig, the son of Lynette Lockpicker, and Quivalath Padruig." He made no apologies for his mixed blood. Trowa hid a smile, as Wufei joined them. At Flint's comment about honour, Duo grinned. "Make it a threesome," he stated, gesturing towards Wufei, "Wu-Chan would fit into that category too." Wufei scowled, then sighed. "Maxwell, give it up." Tanis raised an eyebrow. Maxwell? So he must be the other friend that Heero had mentioned. Oh, I see. Justice freak was the nicest thing Duo said about him.
Duo stifled a yawn. Man, this library is so boring. Although Wu seems to like it. That Derek is a prize asshole. I wonder where Tas got those glasses... Dragon Orbs? Told the truth indeed. I remember Heero telling me about what he said to Flint. Then again, Tas doesn't lie very often, just for special occasions. He smiled. That kender, I really like Raistlin's threat. Much better then Heero's 'omae o korosu'. He froze. Oh shit... that sound... The dragons are here...
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----
Duo, Trowa and Wufei looked at each other. "Meet at the inn. You found it okay before, hey Wu?" "Yes. So we return to the inn?" they exchanged looks, then broke into a run.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----
Duo stopped hurriedly, as he saw Flint and Tas. He froze, then ran for the inn desperately. Heero and Caramon. I have to get Heero and Caramon. They can free Tas. Heero and Caramon. He got to the inn just as the dragons swooped down. NO! Heero!
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----
Heero bit his lip. Hurry Duo. I can't leave without you. He kept watching, listening with half an ear, as Raistlin prepared a poison. Tanis burst in. Heero felt the world was spinning, as he heard the dragon attack. The roof was caving in, the inn collapsing. Tanis threw Laurana towards Elistan, in front of the inn. Heero saw Duo's shocked face, slowly sinking to his knees, near the cleric, as the world fell down around him. As his world went black, he heard two things in particular. Raistlin shrieking strange words. And Duo's voice, screaming in agonised rage. "Heero! NO!"
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----
Hmm, I think that's as good a place as any to finish.
OK, quick recap.
Quatre and Heero: in the now collapsed Red Dragon Inn. Duo, Trowa and Wufei: outside the inn. Relena, Hilde, etc: at home, being good little girls. Therefore, irrelevant. Sally, Une, Noin, Dorothy, Catherine: on their way to Krynn.
Oops. I hadn't expected them to come. This story is out of control. I wanted some more time with just the boys, but Sally and Co insisted on pushing their way into the story, regardless of what I wanted.
Yes, I will bring Nemesis back. I haven't finished with Duo's family. We will see his daddy again too. Nemesis isn't a SI. To begin with, I wouldn't be dumb enough to be Duo's sister. ^_^
Icewall and the Silvanesti nightmare are next, and I want more than just the G-boys in the dream... who to add... the possibilities are endless...
Kend.
----------------------- [i] Ok, I'm making a very important note here. Recently the MLs were filled with discussions about people makjing the decision to hate Relena based on fanfiction, then liking her in the series. Well, for me, the situation with Hilde is the exact opposite. I saw her in fanfiction, and thought she was fantastic! A great sister figure for Duo. Then I saw her in the series. I loathed her. She was annoying to the extreme. Same goes for Noin for that matter. Another note, the order I saw things in was the first few episodes/Manga, then fanfiction, then the rest of the series. Relena is kind of cool in places, impractical, but not a complete bitch.
Gundam Wing isn't mine. DragonLance isn't mine. Nothing is mine, not even my hair colour.
I thought that with all the descriptions of Duo, it would be funny to see Heero interact with a kender. Then I thought of this. Shounen ai, X-over, AU. Duo as a kender... scary. Be afraid. Be very, very afraid.
Thoughts
Flashbacks
Chapter 6
Heero sighed, they had fought long and hard to gain the Hammer of Kharas. Sturm was put out that they were handing over one of the keys to forging the DragonLances. Heero didn't care. I want to go home. But Duo is determined to help defeat the Dragonarmies. I'll stay, for his sake. He listened to the dwarven bard. The song was based on the exploits of the group.
@~@~@~@
From the north came danger, as we knew it would: In the vanguard of winter, a dragon's dance Unravelled the land, until out of the forest, Out of the plains they came, from the mothering earth, The sky unreckoned before them. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
One from a garden of stone arising, From dwarf-halls, from weather and wisdom, Where the heart and mind ride unquestioned In the untapped vein of the hand. In his fathering arms, the spirit gathered. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
One from a haven of breezes descending, Light in the handling air, To the waving meadows, the kender's country, Where the grain out of smallness arises itself To grow green and golden and green again. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
The next from the plains, the long land's keeping, Nurtured in distance, horizons of nothing. Bearing a staff she came, and a burden Of mercy and light converged in her hand: Bearing the wounds of the world she came. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
The next from the plains, in the moon's shadow, Through custom, through ritual, trailing the moon Where her phases, her wax and her wane, controlled The tide of his blood, and his warrior's hand Ascended through hierarchies of space into light. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
One from the stars, called to the land, The warrior bound to the kender and elf: His strength and his silence hide his soul, Seeming alone, yet bound by love, His heart belongs to the world and his friends. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
One in the heart of honour, formed by the sword, By the centuries' flight of the kingfisher over the land, By Solamnia, ruined and risen, rising again When the heart ascends into duty. As it dances, the sword is forever an heirloom. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
The next in a simple light a brother to darkness, Letting the sword hand try all subtleties, Even the intricate webs of the heart. His thoughts Are pools disrupted in changing wind- He cannot see their bottom. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
The next, the leader, half-elven, betrayed As the twining blood pulls asunder the land, The forests, the worlds of elves and men. Called into bravery, but fearing for love, And fearing that, called into both, he does nothing. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
The last from darkness, breathing the night Where the abstract stars hide a nest of words, Where the body endures the wound of numbers, Surrendered to knowledge, until, unable to bless, His blessing falls on the low, the benighted. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
Joined by others they were in the telling: A graceless girl, graced beyond graces; A princess of seeds and saplings, called to the forest; An ancient weaver of accidents; A kender, a lord among elves; The golden-haired healer of hearts. Nor can we say who the story will gather. Eleven they were, under the three moons, Under the autumn twilight: As the world declined, they arose Into the heart of the story.
@~@~@~@
He sighed. This was important. The people would now get shelter through the winter. But Sturm seemed to be complaining still. He'd be better off complaining about that ridiculous 'song'. Duo still hadn't forgiven Sturm for taking Eben's part against him. Heero, Trowa and Quatre stood by him. Trowa and Quatre were now standing near Tanis. Duo lightly touched his shoulder. "You alright quisalas?" Heero smiled at his love. Duo stayed by him now. They had agreed that they had quite a scare in Pax Tharkas, and Duo made sure he wasn't far from the rest of them now. Good. I don't want to lose him. But what is it with this 'quisalas' business? Heero shrugged it off. He saw Tanis leading Sturm in their general direction, and they began to argue. Duo sighed softly. "Tanis is claustrophobic you know. I can't blame him. Even I feel cramped here, and we both know you aren't supposed to get claustrophobia in a Gundam's cockpit." Heero smiled, touching Duo's arm. He jerked his head towards the doors. Duo nodded. They could see that Raistlin had joined the two arguing. Heero shuddered when he heard Raistlin give out that awful laugh, as he and Sturm walked back inside. Duo sighed. They looked at Tanis, sharing a silent understanding.
Duo and Heero were standing near Sturm at the council. They listened to his sarcastic comments. Duo sighed. "He's just impossible Hee-Chan. They all are. Let's get out of here, before I lose my lunch." Heero nodded. They saw Quatre and Trowa walk over, and the four of them left the meeting. "We can get the basics from Tanis later." Duo noted wryly. They drew near later, to an argument between Tanis and Laurana. Duo scowled. "She's worse than Relena was!" With that complaint, he moved forward. As Tanis scolded her, he thoughtlessly said 'you elves'. Duo flinched as Laurana seized on that, and scorned him, bringing Kitiara into it. Duo finally broke into the heated argument. "Lauralanthalasa, stop being such a spoiled brat." The elven girl stared at Duo in shock. Duo continued scornfully. "When you talk like this, I'm ashamed to be elven. With an attitude like yours, it's no wonder the half-elves pull away. You make me sick." Then his voice grew quieter. "I've known someone else like you. A human girl, who thought she could have anything and anyone she wanted. At least a human grows up. I sincerely doubt you will. At least, not in the lifetimes of the people here." Ignoring Laurana's stricken look, Duo turned on his heel, and walked away.
The other pilots followed him. Tanis sighed as Laurana ran off into the mountain. Duo's words appear to have hit home. He walked towards the pilots. In a way he was justified. Laurana hasn't done him any favours, even though he's backed Gilthanas up every turn. But still. I'll talk with him, see if he can let up on her a little. Otherwise it will be an uncomfortable trip. Especially since the other three follow Duo's lead with the others.
***
Heero glanced around him. Due to Duo's problems with Sturm and Laurana, they were walking away from them both. Quatre was talking to Elistan animatedly, while Laurana listened. Just as well Quatre doesn't let Duo's mood affect him. And of course, he finds it impossible to be rude to a lady. He was even able to find a kind word for Relena at her worst. Heero smiled. Duo's bad mood meant that they weren't near Tanis. Trowa was near Raistlin and Tika. He was able to assist where Tika got told off. Between them, they managed to keep Raistlin moving. Then he glanced around, when he felt a snowball hit his head. To his relief, he heard Duo giggle. Finally he's getting back to normal. Then, he turned, walking backwards, to face Tas. He gave the kender a death glare. Tas just giggled. Then he picked up another handful of snow, and threw it straight at Heero's face. Duo glanced back, and grinned. "Stop it Tas. I don't think that's conducive to a long life somehow." "Why not?" Tas wanted to know. "Cause Heero's strong enough to bend steel. I don't think breaking a kender's neck will be any problem, somehow." Tas giggled, then promised not to hit Heero anymore. Promptly, a snowball hit the back of Duo's head. Duo stopped for a second. Then, he fell forward. Heero glanced down, puzzled. Tas seemed worried. "Duo, I- I'm sorry, I didn't mean..." then abruptly, he was hit square in the face with a snowball. Duo grinned. "Gotcha!" Tas laughed. But they couldn't get into a snowball fight. "Tasslehoff, Duo, please settle down." They gave mock sighs, and did as Tanis said. They shared a giggling promise to have a real snowball fight later. And Heero wasn't allowed to back out. They travelled in silence for a moment, then Sturm called out. They had reached Tarsis.
***
Sally sighed. There had been no contact from the boys since they had gone looking for Heero. But then, Duo had said that. They were out of range of the radios, so they had to be patient. She glanced at the page in front of her. The trip to this planet took some time, even with the fastest shuttle, which the boys had taken, it took close to a month. If the boys needed help, no-one would know. She glanced at the others. Noin and Une watched her. Then they made up their minds. "We'll go after them. After all, we have no idea how Heero, of all people, came to crash there." Lady Une nodded. "That is a good idea. Should we take others with us?" Sally thought, then shook her head. "We'll take Catherine, since she's so worried about Trowa and Quatre. Besides, Duo noted in his last transmission that the society there is little to no technology. That means we'd better not show the guns, since he didn't think it wise to upset the balance there. Catherine's knives will come in handy." "Is there anyone else that we should inform?" "Probably Relena, and... do the other boys have relatives or friends that should be warned that they might need help?" "Um, I don't think so. Wufei only has the preventers, and we already know what's happening. Duo and Heero... they have Relena, and Hilde[i], but no- one else. Quatre has his sisters, and Catherine. Trowa has Catherine." "Maybe we should ask Dorothy." That was Noin. She had been silent so far. "Dorothy Catalonia? Why?" "She's good with a sword, Sally. If Duo is right about using low-tech weapons, then we'll need people who can use weapons other than guns, thus, Catherine's knives." The three women nodded. They would leave soon. Dorothy, Catherine, myself, Sally, and Noin. Une smiled slightly. I wonder what this new world holds.
***
Duo growled. Tarsis the Beautiful. Landlocked. They were stuck. Heero silently pulled him closer. He remembered Raistlin's words. 'you are wise to trust your feelings' He smiled briefly. That sounded like something that Heero would say. He gripped Heero's hand, as they discussed what they would do next. He noticed Tas slipping out the door. Lightly, he touched Heero's arm, and they rose to their feet silently. They made their way to the door to find Tas. They watched as he reached the end of the street. Then, the kender tilted his head to one side, and then he lifted the hoopak, and swung it. Heero already had his hands over his ears. He'd heard that thing often enough. They looked at each other, then at Tas, then at the guards heading their way. They waited only long enough for Tas to catch up, then raced back to the inn. They had to verify that Tas hadn't done anything, but then Tanis quickly took charge again. "Laurana, you and Elistan go upstairs. Sturm, you and Gilthanas remain with me. The rest of you go to your rooms." "Yes daddy," Duo responded cheekily. He tuned out most of Tanis' words. "I know you four like to make your own decisions, so Heero? What do you all want to do?" The four pilots glanced at each other. Then Heero made the choice. "Trowa, you go, and Duo. I'll stay here with Quatre. We'll be better at defence, while you two are better at remaining unnoticed." Trowa nodded, while Duo frowned. "Okay Heero, but-" Heero nodded with a little smile. "Only if you promise the same koi." Duo smiled. "Alright quisalas." Then he handed Heero his scythe. "Take care, love."
***
"That's them! There's the knight, like I told you. And the bearded elf, the dwarf, and the kender, the long-haired elf in black, and an elflord. Duo rolled his eyes, and whispered to Trowa. "Kender and elves and dwarves, oh my!" Trowa shook his head. "Stop it Duo." As they were led away, Duo glanced back. He saw Laurana and Heero, looking out. Laurana said something. Most likely to Tanis. And Heero just watched. Duo gave his love a sweet smile, and turned away.
***
Duo smirked. The crowds had no idea what they were getting into. He knew the look on Tas' face. He'd worn it himself often enough. The kender was preparing to taunt. Foul knight, elven scum. How unoriginal. If I didn't know Tas was going to answer for all of us, I'd be taunting them myself. "Is that your nose or a disease? Can those fleas crawling on your body do tricks? Was your mother a gully dwarf?" Tas was in fine form. Trowa's eyes were a little wide. He whispered in Duo's ear. "I thought that was just you! Are all kender like that?" Duo smiled slightly. "More or less. Tas is obviously a master." If anything, Trowa looked more worried. The crowd by this time had turned into a mob. Duo smirked as he heard Tas call out again. "Hey constable, you know what you could do with that whistle? You could-" Tas cut off. Duo frowned, and looked for the kender. He was gone. Then Duo stared. "Tro, look over there." Trowa followed Duo's gaze. Then he gasped, as a solitary figure put his finger to his lips, in an age old gesture of silence. Duo smiled in relief. "Wu," he whispered.
***
Wufei watched as his friends were led away. Duo had used the sound of the crowd to call something out in Japanese. Red Dragon Inn. So that must be where they were staying. That is Maxwell and Barton. So where is Winner and Yuy? At the inn? Wufei paused, then shook his head. I will check whether Yuy and Winner are at the inn, and then I will return to the library. With a click of his fingers, Wufei turned to the direction that Duo and Trowa had come from, where after a short walk, he came across the Red Dragon Inn. He looked up at the windows. Several figures were keeping watch out of the window. One of them was Heero. Wufei pulled back the hood he had been wearing, and looked up at the window. Heero's eyes widened, and he gestured to someone inside. After a moment, Quatre's face appeared at the window. Wufei nodded, as Heero asked him, or rather mouthed, in Japanese, if he had seen Duo and Trowa. Heero frowned, then said something to the others in the room, while Quatre mouthed down that Heero would be out to talk to him.
Heero frowned, deep in thought. He had told Riverwind that he would return shortly. So Wufei is here. It doesn't look like Duo told him anything, unless Trowa told him everything in that silent way. But one of them must have given him the name of this inn. He gave a little smirk. Quatre had better watch himself. Caramon will get pissed off it he doesn't stop ogling Tika. Just because she looks like Catherine... "Yuy," Wufei said. "Hn," Heero responded. They waited a moment, then Heero spoke again. "How long?" "Several months. I have been hiding in a library." "Alone? What have you heard of the armies in the north?" "Not always alone, there was a crazy elven onna for a while. On the other, I have heard a great deal. Most dismiss them as rumours." "They are true. And as for elves... Duo turned out to be half-elven." "There are many races, what is the other half?" "Kender." Now Heero his a smirk at the look of abject horror crossing Wufei's face. Obviously he had encountered one of the merry thieves of Krynn. "That explains much, Did you find out his true name?" was all Wufei would say on the subject. "I will return to the library. When do you plan on leaving?" "For the most, we listen to Tanis. Duo insists on fighting in this war. In a way, I guess I can't blame him. The war with OZ was orders. This is personal." "How so?" "Duo's father is a high ranking elven noble. These dragonarmies want to wipe the elves into oblivion. By the way, his name is Shinigami Padruig, since you asked." Wufei nodded. "So we all remain." Heero, having used up his word quota for the next month or so, just nodded. "Wait, Shinigami? What is an elf doing with a Japanese name?" He shook his head impatiently. "Anyway, now I know the truth of these rumours, I will warn you of a curious figure I have observed in the city. Heavily clothed, and hidden. They seem suspicious." To Wufei's amazement, Heero looked terrified. Well, terrified for Heero. "Clothing that looks like it could be hiding wings?" Wufei frowned. "You've seen them," "Yes, but not here. Back to the north. They look like a man mixed with a lizard." Wufei was shocked. "What are those things?" "I'm not sure. Raistlin said they aren't natural. All the things you read about in Duo's fantasy novels, they're real. Dragons, Unicorns, Centaurs... it's all real. I've seen it for myself." Wufei had no answer.
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Trowa looked deep in thought. Duo sighed heavily. They were being marched further away from the inn. It was a deserted part of town, and strangely run down. When Alhana acted haughty about Tanis' heritage, Duo spoke confidently. "I am Shinigami Padruig, the son of Lynette Lockpicker, and Quivalath Padruig." He made no apologies for his mixed blood. Trowa hid a smile, as Wufei joined them. At Flint's comment about honour, Duo grinned. "Make it a threesome," he stated, gesturing towards Wufei, "Wu-Chan would fit into that category too." Wufei scowled, then sighed. "Maxwell, give it up." Tanis raised an eyebrow. Maxwell? So he must be the other friend that Heero had mentioned. Oh, I see. Justice freak was the nicest thing Duo said about him.
Duo stifled a yawn. Man, this library is so boring. Although Wu seems to like it. That Derek is a prize asshole. I wonder where Tas got those glasses... Dragon Orbs? Told the truth indeed. I remember Heero telling me about what he said to Flint. Then again, Tas doesn't lie very often, just for special occasions. He smiled. That kender, I really like Raistlin's threat. Much better then Heero's 'omae o korosu'. He froze. Oh shit... that sound... The dragons are here...
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Duo, Trowa and Wufei looked at each other. "Meet at the inn. You found it okay before, hey Wu?" "Yes. So we return to the inn?" they exchanged looks, then broke into a run.
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Duo stopped hurriedly, as he saw Flint and Tas. He froze, then ran for the inn desperately. Heero and Caramon. I have to get Heero and Caramon. They can free Tas. Heero and Caramon. He got to the inn just as the dragons swooped down. NO! Heero!
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Heero bit his lip. Hurry Duo. I can't leave without you. He kept watching, listening with half an ear, as Raistlin prepared a poison. Tanis burst in. Heero felt the world was spinning, as he heard the dragon attack. The roof was caving in, the inn collapsing. Tanis threw Laurana towards Elistan, in front of the inn. Heero saw Duo's shocked face, slowly sinking to his knees, near the cleric, as the world fell down around him. As his world went black, he heard two things in particular. Raistlin shrieking strange words. And Duo's voice, screaming in agonised rage. "Heero! NO!"
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Hmm, I think that's as good a place as any to finish.
OK, quick recap.
Quatre and Heero: in the now collapsed Red Dragon Inn. Duo, Trowa and Wufei: outside the inn. Relena, Hilde, etc: at home, being good little girls. Therefore, irrelevant. Sally, Une, Noin, Dorothy, Catherine: on their way to Krynn.
Oops. I hadn't expected them to come. This story is out of control. I wanted some more time with just the boys, but Sally and Co insisted on pushing their way into the story, regardless of what I wanted.
Yes, I will bring Nemesis back. I haven't finished with Duo's family. We will see his daddy again too. Nemesis isn't a SI. To begin with, I wouldn't be dumb enough to be Duo's sister. ^_^
Icewall and the Silvanesti nightmare are next, and I want more than just the G-boys in the dream... who to add... the possibilities are endless...
Kend.
----------------------- [i] Ok, I'm making a very important note here. Recently the MLs were filled with discussions about people makjing the decision to hate Relena based on fanfiction, then liking her in the series. Well, for me, the situation with Hilde is the exact opposite. I saw her in fanfiction, and thought she was fantastic! A great sister figure for Duo. Then I saw her in the series. I loathed her. She was annoying to the extreme. Same goes for Noin for that matter. Another note, the order I saw things in was the first few episodes/Manga, then fanfiction, then the rest of the series. Relena is kind of cool in places, impractical, but not a complete bitch.