IV
The Black Cat
It had been the same, every night. And now, steadily worse. Like lightning galloping through the woods, coming to claim her soul. She could never escape them- those hungry red eyes. Nightly, they returned to her- in her dreams- coming to devour her. Every time she ran into the old weather beaten house. Every night the woman with the restless baby in her arms hushed her- Guin, how she missed her now, even just her dreamt silhouette. Every morning she awoke in terror, knowing that the monster was closer- and Guin was dead.
My God, what have I done?
Her own reflection disgusted her these days. She could not bear the sight of her own red eyes. Red eyes which had sealed her fate. Eyes that no one wanted. There were so many deaths on her conscience. Reflected perfectly in those empty blood-colored eyes, like so many beams of sunlight.
With her hands pressed against the thick glass of the window, Upir stared into her kingdom. Her kingdom. She knew she did not deserve this life she lived each day. She should not have been in this world at all. Nothing but lust, obsession, and cruelty had lighted her way into this life. She had been as unwanted a child as Quasimodo, the hunchback of the old stories on the Earth. Not a soul had ever needed or loved her. Though her life with Guin and Li had been a beautiful whirl of gentleness and care, she wondered if they had ever loved her as their own. They had a son- a child of their blood. They never could have loved her as they loved him.
The familiar sting of tears pushed at the corners of her eyes, but she refused to cry them. She deserved no pity- even from herself.
~o00o~
Stolen away from the noise and bustle of the outside world- denied even the light of the sun, he had easily lost track of time. How long had it been since the red-eyed one had left him in this dank, dark cell? Days? Perhaps weeks. He knew and cared not. Hope was a fair-weather friend it seemed.
His entire body ached, new cuts and bruises made themselves known along his pale flesh. What fragmented memories remained of the past days told him he had been attacked- questioned- and thrown into this tiny hole of a cell.
As he found himself readily slipping back into an restless sleep, a sharp noise pulled him from the arms of unconsciousness. A noise like fingernails on a chalk board, or a blade scraping across a metal surface, or even the slightly magnified sound of a misguided key in an unfamiliar lock. He shook his head uneasily, dispelling the sudden race of thoughts gathering in his poor brain. He then waited simply for the heavy door to swing open.
What greeted him from beyond the threshold at fist was nothing but more darkness. Thick, unforgiving darkness, followed by a glimmer of candlelight no more brilliant than a spider's thread. A simple thread, illuminating only a pair of ruby eyes. Eyes which seemed to feed upon the color of the surrounding skin, draining it until they were satisfied, leaving the flesh pristine and flawless as a dolls.
Come to finish me off? he asked, an unusual birth of sarcasm painted across his words.
Haunting eyes with ages of pain and sorrow locked away beneath shackles of fear and self loathing stared into him. Not the eyes of his captor- and yet, frighteningly similar. Same shape, same color, same deathly white skin. But these eyes were so sad, so hurt. Crying without tears.
Who are you?
~o00o~
His body was begging him to run, to scream, to jump up and down senselessly- anything but this funeral march he made down the hallway which seemed to mock him by tripling in length. Each foot rose and fell with a calm, slow motion. Over and over, one after another, down and down. His inner functionings seemed to be racing. Thoughts ran through him too fast to be caught and made sense of. His blood pumped so fast and loud he imagined his ears might burst. And yet he crept, with precision and patience to his faltering destination. His long chestnut braid swinging behind him, marking each step forward as one he wished could have been back.
Three hollow knocks sounded on the door before him- his fist falling three times onto the slick wooden surface. Prussian-blue eyes full of a soft, tired questioning greeted him as the door swung open. Eyes he quickly avoided as he spoke.
They have Quatre. He never made it out of the Sanc Kingdom, Heero.
~o00o~
Most people found peace, comfort, purpose even, in the arms of others. But to Dorothy, these arms encircling her like this as she lie along the silken sheets of a vast and lavish bed meant a mission- a murder. An assassination ordered by her grandfather. An important politician to be seduced and eliminated in the cover of a dark passionate night. There was nothing comforting about this embrace. Even when these arms were Bast's.
She felt Bast stir slightly behind her, no doubt waking from a deep and colorful dream. Dreams like Dorothy never knew, or at least never remembered.
She dreamt once that she was in love, with a ruby-eyed angel. The soft red eyes of one pretending to be much stronger- wearing a selfless mask, forged to protect all that is beautiful and kind. She imagined she was happy and carefree- she was all the things her grandfather had stolen from her. All the things she never had the chance to become. She dreamt of things like fresh baked bread and twilight walks along the ocean's shore. Light cotton dresses and night's spent reading, or simply sitting by a warm fire's side. She would picture herself smiling, and meaning it with more conviction and heart than a wistful child. A smile she could almost see mirrored in those red eyes. Smiles of tenderness and love, and petal soft kisses that meant more than all the world to her.
(For her soul gives me sigh for sigh,)
She felt Bast's movements again. Warm lips pressing against the lobe of her ear.
Are you sleeping, koneko? Dorothy felt a smile on those lips, still touching her- sending vibrant chills through her entire body.
Tender arms tightened around her, slowly constricting like the deadly embrace of a large exotic snake. A serpent Dorothy thought must have red eyes.
Why is it you never truly rest when I hold you? Are you still such a soldier that you can not drop your guard here with me? Are you afraid I might kill you while you dream in my arms?
I'm not afraid.
What is it then? Why do you never sleep so close to me? Don't you trust me- don't you love me, koneko?
There's no such thing as love. There was no hesitation in her response. No pause of doubt or unease. She spoke as though she were merely stating the obvious- a well known fact. She freed herself from the serpentine arms of her lover, pulling her tired body into a sitting position on the edge of the bed. She wrapped her arms around herself in a subconscious protective gesture. You don't love me.
Aa, but I do.
I don't believe you. She stood, walking determinedly towards the door. And I don't believe in love.
~o00o~
He ran on without a care for his own well being. He noticed not the piercing sting of the winter's rain as it bit at the exposed skin of his face and neck. He quickly disregarded the aching protest of his legs as he commanded them forward. Nothing mattered now- nothing accept the protection of his fair-haired lover. As he ran, Heero's words played over and over in his tormented mind.
Quatre never left the Sanc Kingdom.
His blood ran cold as his imagination tore free, swimming with images of Quatre's broken, bloodied form, lying at the feet of none other than the sadistic Dorothy Catalonia. A soft sob clung to his lips as he acknowledged the fact that he might be too late. He might not be able to save his angel from the blood thirsty fires which awaited them all in the end.
Bast has taken Quatre.
And so he ran- making no stop in his reckless journey to the palace of Sanc. Heero and Duo had concluded that Bast would be holding Quatre there, on the grounds of their first fated meeting. All that mattered now was that he kept moving- that he reached Quatre in time- and that Bast's life ended by his hands.
~o00o~
Who are you?
He watched as those ruby eyes drank in his words, tasting them, contemplating, waiting- as though not being able to provide an answer to such a simple question as this. They seemed to dim, and sadden further as they were penetrated by his curiosity.
I am a monster, said the soft low voice belonging to the possessor of such melancholy heartbroken eyes. I need to end this, even if my own life is the cost of peace.
I know you, he said in little more than a whisper. He could nearly picture the face surrounding those eyes. Recalling this voice from some forgotten memory. But his shadow adorned companion made no reply, allowing the bitter silence to cover them once more.
Then he remembered.
Upir. You're Upir Peacecraft, aren't you?
I am not a Peacecraft. They never wanted me- and with all this blood in my wake, I don't blame them.
He was left without words at this. Rising to his feet, and hesitantly closing the gap between them he held out his hand. Quatre Raberba Winner, he said with as much courtesy as he could gather.
She slipped her hand into his. Upir Billie.
~o00o~
Without sparing a moment, or giving chance to hesitation, Duo, Heero, Wufei- and of course, Mab- were flying into the heart of the Sanc Kingdom. Bast had gone too far. Three representatives from the Romafeller foundation were still MIA within the kingdom- Heero's pride had been wounded- and above all, one of their own had been stolen away by the red-eyed demon.
Though Heero had protested to the company of the cat-princess on this mission, Duo had given into her pleading eyes and demands- stowing her away in the folds of his coat. Relena had been assassinated for power in this game, it was as much her battle as it was theirs. She wanted to see the end of this nightmare as badly as she had ever imagined she could want anything. Her Kingdom, her lost people were at stake in this, as was the life of a dear friend- though Quatre never knew of her smiles and laughter reserved only for him. They were her family- these five Gundam pilots. She would not stand by and see her family destroyed again.
~o00o~
She pulled her hand away quickly, an urgency in her eyes- her dry, crying eyes. Follow me, she whispered, turning towards the open door of his cell.
I don't understand. Why are you doing this?
I told you, her words were forced and quiet. this has to end. She did not face him as she spoke. Her steps never faltering as she led him down the stretching dark corridor.
But this battle- why did you begin at all?
She stopped then, turning so that mere feet separated them. He could see the outline of her body- deathly frail, yet graceful and elegant. Like a doll.
There is and old tale among the people here. A story used to frighten children into doing as they're told. It tells of the Cait Sith.
They are rumored to be black cats, larger than most common dogs. Many hunters tell of encountering them among the wild of a moonlit forest, their blazing eyes, arched backs and erect hair silhouetted against the darkening sky. She paused, winding her arms around herself.
Some say that they are witches, transformed into these monstrous cats. Others claim them to be fae, or the shape shifting vampires of Japan, The Cat of Nabeshima. A demon cat who murdered fair maidens and took on their form.
I fail to see what you're driving at. Quatre shook himself mentally. The days without food and true rest began to show on him. He thought perhaps she were making perfect sense but understanding somehow eluded him.
Wishing wells are said to be the dwelling place of damned souls. A sad smile tugged at her lips. When I was a child, I lived among servants here, in a small house behind the palace. I used to run into the woods and play while my parents were at work. She settled her eyes on Quatre, silently begging him to hear her tale. I got lost one day, finding myself in a clearing I had never seen before. I sat on the ledge of an old stone well and began to cry. 'Don't cry. Don't be sad, little one,' said a tender voice from within the well. If you help me, I will protect you always.'
You saved it from the well. It was more of a statement than a question, but Quatre felt his grip on reality slipping, he wanted nothing more than to surrender to the arms of sleep and wake beside Trowa- finding this all just a bad dream.
What I rescued from the well was a black cat. A regal looking creature with fiery red eyes, and fur soft as silk and newborn clouds. It told me that it could never could have escaped the well alone, and so was in my dept. She paused again, as though pulling at thin shards of strength- her frail body demanding more than she could give. Her health slowly failing. There is no single myth of fairy tale that shows all truths. Rather, bits and pieces to each. Like a puzzle.
I found a damned soul in a wishing well, and like those stories of vampires who may only enter a home when invited, this spirit could not escape without my help. My invitation.
When I was a child, a talking cat told me, if only I promised to be obedient, it would protect me always. I was only a child- and it wanted so much more than that.
~o00o~
AC 185
The sun shone brightly upon the young face of the girl perched delicately in the sill of an old home's single window. Her hair, red and untamed, hung in thick curls around her face, cascading down her back in wild rifts. The sun's gentle beams caught in her eyes- eyes which perfectly matched her hair- as she watched a man, and a very pregnant woman descend the steeps leading down to a thin well traveled path.
As they reached the last step the woman turned to face the little house. She wore a long shapeless dress with an apron tied around her waist, subtly accenting the bulge in her stomach. Her long raven hair was bound in twin braids, tied with plum-colored ribbons. She waved to the girl in the window, calling out; We'll be home for supper, Uu-chan, mind your studies.
The man laughed softly at this. All work and no play, Guin? he said to the woman beside him. Do not forget to play, Upir! he called back to the child, earning himself a stern gaze from the pregnant woman, and a large smile from the child.
You spoil her, Li, Guin said softly as she waved again.
Do not, said Li with a smile as he blew a kiss towards the small girl. You're too hard on her. He twined his hand with Guin's as they continued down the narrow path.
I don't want her to spend her life in a place like this. I want her to be free, and- She stopped speaking and placed a hand on her stomach. Seems your son is determined to kick himself free.
Upir watched from the window until they rounded a corner and she could see nothing but the unchanging trees once more. She slid sorrowfully from her place in the sun and settled herself on a rocking chair, content in reading a collection poetry Li had given her. She read of the unappreciated beauties of nature- the sakura tree and the rose. She read sonnets of romance, and odes to lost loves.
Being a child, and well aquatinted with that infamous cat-killer, curiosity- Upir found herself restless, and unable to simply sit and read. Drawn by the friendly beams of the sun, and the promise of fresh scented flowers, Upir changed from her nightgown into a soft rose-colored dress and pulled on her shabby brown boots. Slipping her book into the pocket of her dress, she broke with the safe comfort of her home and wandered into the lush, beautiful forest surrounding the Sanc palace.
She reveled in the feel of the sun on her skin, the sweet songs of the birds. The day was calm and lovely as she found her way among the trees, following the path her heart commanded. With every step her small book hit lightly against her leg, reminding her quietly of its presence.
After countless moments, spent enjoying the subtle beauties of nature and all her wondrous children, Upir drew the book from her pocket, allowing it to open to the page of its choosing.
I dwelt alone, In a world of moan,
And my soul was a stagnant tide,
Till the fair and gentle Eulalie became my blushing bride-
Till the yellow-haired young Eulalie became my smiling bride.
As she read, she walked on, following blindly wherever her feet led her. She did not notice the change in the trees, nor the stillness of the air as she moved deeper into the forest. Only the sound of her procession, and the lines of the poem hung in the silent air.
Ah, less- less bright, The stars of the night
Than the eyes of the radiant girl
And never a flake
That the vapor can make
With the moon-tints of purple and pearl,
Can vie with the modest Eulalie's most unregarded curl-
Can compare with the bright-eyed Eulalie's most
humble and careless curl.
A small frightened sound escaped her as she looked up from her book. No familiar tree or rock surrounded her. She turned in a circle, her eyes recognizing nothing but the constant blue sky peeking through the canopy. She had stumbled into a small clearing where the birds did not sing their tender songs, and the soft autumn winds did not rustle the leaves with rhythmic breathing sounds. She had lost herself in a cold unmoving place. A place from which she could not find her way home again.
She spun around again, searching for some sign of home. Her movements caught her dress on a briar, tearing the soft cotton and the pale skin of her leg. She bit her lip, holding back small diamond tears. She crossed the clearing, sitting on the ledge of an old stone well. With the torn edge of her skirt she blotted away the blood slowly crawling down her leg. She hissed in pain as she aggravated the wound further. It was then that she lost her hold on the tears. It was too much- lost, hurt, frightened- she could not fight them back any longer. The tears came dancing down.
A delicate purring voice echoed from the well. Don't cry. Don't be sad, little one, it said, startling Upir to her feet. If you help me, I will protect you always.
Who are you? Upir found herself drawn by the soft throaty voice, like a moth to the flames. Resting her hands on the well's ledge she strained to see inside, through the darkness and onto the face of her companion.
My name is not for your ears, my child.
Though she did not understand how secrecy surrounded a name, Upir was too captivated by the voice in the well to demand such an answer. By the side of the well, lie an old wooden bucket with a long tattered string tied around the handle. Dispelling doubt, fear, and common sense, she lowered the bucket into the well. Sounds of scratching and struggling emitted from within, followed by a thump and a tug on the cord Upir held. Slowly, steadily, she pulled the bucket into the light.
What caught her sight first was a pair of unearthly red eyes- eyes so like her own, and yet, different. They drank greedily from the sun, seeming to flourish and glow as its tiny beams twirled into the dungeons of each iris. As though life were returning to this creature with Nature's warm embrace.
The eyes were surrounded by shadow, Upir, at first saw nothing past those hungry eyes. Their brilliance alone blurred and grayed everything around them. They were captivating, these unholy eyes. What crawled from the darkness was a noble and elegant creature, with thick soft fur the color of a moonless night, and the eyes which mirrored Upir's perfectly. This beast was not quite feline, with its elongated limbs and large human eyes, but to the casual observer, a cat- a very strange cat- was all it appeared to be.
Upir sat back down on the well's ledge, struggling to figure out if she was in fact, still asleep. Nothing could compare to this monstrous cat, not even the demons of her darkest nightmares. And yet- she was not afraid.
The creature settled itself in her lap, nuzzling her skin fondly as it sang a sort of soft purr. You have given me life again, it said in a low musical voice. and so, I am yours. I will protect you always.
And so it began, this hellish protection- this monster in the skin of a guardian angel.
The Beast led her home, asking only in turn, that it might stay near. Upir would need only call, and this valiant guardian would be with her.
Now Doubt- now Pain, Come never again,
For her soul gives me sigh for sigh,
~o00o~
It started so simply. I rescued it from the well, and it brought me home again. All it wanted was to be near me. But I never imagined- Her words faded to nothing more than a disarmed whisper, a painful weak sound. She covered her eyes with her hand, steadying her breaths. In the beginning, I thought it was perfect. It watched over me, protected me and my family, and asked for anything in return. I was such a fool to believe it never would.
It never told you its name? Quatre leaned against the cold metal wall of the dim corridor, fearing his legs might drop him. He blinked feverishly- trying to chase the fog from his eyes.
It takes so many names. She stopped suddenly, as though struck by some unseen ember. Erlösung. It said if I must call it something, then it should be Erlösung.
Quatre repeated the word slowly, letting his mind search for a meaning he could not quite capture.
A small smile dared to cross Upir's thin lips. You speak German. Her smile faded as quickly as it had appeared. I knew not what it meant until much later, I still do not understand why it chose such a name for itself. I suppose I'll never know its real name- or if it ever had one.
What did it want? You said it didn't ask for anything at first.
Upir seemed to pale at the question. Her eyes lit with fear and shame. It wanted blood. The blood now on my flesh. Erlösung protected me- protects me still, but at the cost of many lives.
~o00o~
AC 186
Erlösung, why do you stay with me? The child lie on her stomach, her head raised to meet the eyes of her guardian with her chin resting in her hands. All around her was the whisper of summer's soft wind, and the scent of wild flowers. The breeze caught in the tall grasses surrounding her, brushing the tender blades against her skin.
I told you, little one, I am-
You don't owe me anything, the child said, obviously already knowing the answer to her own question. Don't you ever want to escape this place?
Erlösung looked thoughtful for several moments- red eyes seeming to look into another world, or perhaps into a memory. Only with you at my side, beloved.
~o00o~
It still thinks it's protecting you, doesn't it?
She only nodded.
Relena's death, the Romafeller representatives, this impending battle- it's doing this for you? To protect you? He did not understand. All this death for a promise made to a frail child.
She shook her head ever so slightly. To avenge me.
~o00o~
AC 194
She was running- her feet keeping this terrible pace with the fear and despondent drying of her tears. She could feel winter's harsh kiss on her skin- feel the angry gnarled branches of the trees as they tore at her pale skin. She imagined the skirt of her gown must be ruined by now, as was the flesh of her legs, but she did not stop running.
The forest itself seemed against her. The weeping willows grabbed at her like a possessive lover, and the oaks she thought, were purposely baring her way to all that was safe and secure. She dared not turn to face the predator- even for a moment. She could feel those red eyes upon her without ever having seen them. They were always there- in some small hidden way. And now- now they wanted blood.
She burst through the door of a tiny decrepit house, pausing only to shut the door behind her and lean her aching body against the unyielding wood. She gasped for air, pulling each breath in desperately as though it were her last.
Her panicked sounds tore through the silence, startling Guin from the fire's side and the old book she had been reading.
Shhh, Uu-chan. You'll wake your brother.
As She hushed Upir, a sleepy-eyed boy wandered from the cozy warmth of his bed and to his mother's side. His pale hair hung in his eyes slightly as he rubbed at them with the back of his hand. he asked in a slumber dusted voice, the single spoken word holding dozens of unspoken questions.
Go back to bed, love, Guin instructed with a soft smile. The small boy nodded, smothering a yawn with much effort, and disappeared back into the dark hallways.
Upir's fear paralyzed her. She had not dared so much as a step since she had burst through the door. Her back was rigid against the cool wood of the door, hungry chills nipping at her spine with every breath.
Guin turned to her again, her eyes deep with worry and concern. What's wrong Uu-chan? She reached to her slightly, recoiling as Upir twitched away from her hand. What has happened?
This isn't what I wanted! she found herself saying before her voice could be halted. I never wanted this! She fell to the floor, her frail body wracked with uncontrollable coughs. Between each painful sound she managed to cry out, I didn't know, and- and it's too late now.
Guin gathered the girl into her arms, comforting with an embrace shared only by mothers and daughters- even if there was no blood between them. Shhh, shhh, she soothed her quietly, letting her hands trace consoling circles on Upir's skin. It's never too late love. There is always hope.
You don't understand. Her words were so soft, so fragile that Guin never heard them.
~o00o~
Erlösung had found my parents. My real parents. I was never told how, but they were found. They had died years before, but Erlösung knew everything now. How they left me for dead- how they had never wanted me to begin with, and how before their deaths they had lavished every luxury on Milliardo and Relena. They were truly loved- while I was left to rot among the thorns.
Erlösung grew angry, and vengeful. Nothing- nothing can tame a blood lust like that. Gods, I tried. I was happy with Guin and Li. I did not care for revenge.
But Erlösung did. That is where this nightmare truly begins.
Quatre pressed his hands against his lidded eyes, struggling to comprehend everything Upir had told him. He maintained his silence, and softly, she continued.
I kept Erlösung pacified for some time, with assurances that I was happy in the life I lived, and that I needed no valiant redemption at the hands of this kingdom. A chill tore through her body, visibly shaking her with an untamed hunger. It wasn't until Guin and Li were killed- she bit back the tears. when the Sanc Kingdom was freed from the Alliance by a white mobile suit. She laughed bitterly at this. The nation's liberation set loose a fathomless evil, masquerading as my salvation.
Guin died instantly- they say there was no pain. When the white suit bore into the Alliance headquarters she had been there. Bringing wild flowers to the sterile white building. She only wanted to give them something to smile about. Now she'll never smile again. I'll never see her smile.
She could force the tears away no longer. She was too frail- to weak to win this small battle. They broke from her eyes and danced down her face like so many shattered heart strings. She wiped gently at her cheeks, wishing only to cast this sadness from her skin.
Li followed soon after- though slowly. Painfully. They did not find him for hours- crushed beneath the rubble. He never had a chance. By the time they came to save him, there was nothing to do but pray.
I nearly died that day.
And Erlösung would be pacified no longer. For a time, I wanted blood too. I wanted the Alliance- the pilot of that suit- the world itself to feel my loss. My anger, my hate only fed the Beast. By the time I had realized my error, it was too late. Erlösung was too powerful.
Erlösung feeds off of you? Quatre's eyes grew wide, the feeling in his heart finally recognized. Upir was so fragile, so delicate- just the way the Beast wanted her. She could not fight back now. There was a transparent thread, like a puppets string burned deep in Upir's heart where Erlösung could draw power from her. The Beast needed this beauty for its very survival. Quatre could almost see the strength being stolen from her pale form.
She nodded solemnly. I had realized all this the night Erlösung chased me through the woods. I wanted to be free again. The next day, the only parents I had ever known were dead. I did not need to ask for vengeance then- Erlösung knew my heart.
~o00o~
Koneko, the bell has sounded an the final battle- will you come or no?
~o00o~
Dorothy's heart was aching and burning with a ferocity she had never known- with emotions she had always denied. Still she stood, proud and still at Bast's side. She stole sideways glances at those red eyes, a secret wish, hiding from even her own consciousness, wanting to protect the dreams, and stand proud at the side of another.
Was that the thing called love?
She felt as though she were watching the scene unfold from somewhere outside of herself. As though a gray surreal dream. She watched the shadows dance mournfully up and down the royal walls as the faint sounds of movement carried to her ears. This is it. She thought with sudden fear- a fear she buried quickly. This is my last battle.
(And all day long, Shines, bright and strong,)
~o00o~
Heero led their way down the long intimidating halls of Sanc's palace. Duo followed close, Relena snuggled close to him beneath his shirt. Wufei stayed back several paces, searching for signs of Trowa or perhaps Quatre. They knew where they would meet their adversary- The throne room awaited.
Duo jumped at the sounds of soft breath just ahead. Heero reached for his gun before a quiet sound escaped him- a quiet laugh? He let his hand fall away from his weapon. How long have you been waiting, Trowa?
Not long, a familiar voice said from the shadows, an even more familiar form breaking with the darkness.
Heero nodded once. Any sign of Quatre?
He shook his head, long bangs swaying with the movement. Heero nodded again, and continued forward, pausing only to let a reassuring hand fall on Trowa's shoulder. No words were needed- The throne room awaited.
~o00o~
Romafeller's men are dead- Erlösung wants more than this kingdom. Satisfaction will come only when Earth and the colonies bow to us, and not before. You have to get out of here. Upir reached to Quatre, offering a hand to guide him. I will not have any more blood.
Quatre's movements were slow and pained, but he reached to her- knowing her body was weak and tattered as his. They started again, together down the path which led to redemption.
There's one thing I don't understand, Quatre said with much effort. There were many things he did not quite grasp, but this most of all. Where does Bast fit into this War?
I told you, Erlösung takes many names, she faltered slightly but regained composure. and just as many forms.
~o00o~
Dorothy remained still as the doors creaked open. The final battle was truly at hand. All the players were in there places, and the last act had commenced. She drew breath slowly, calming her heart with the steady rhythmic sounds of inhale and exhale.
Four dark figures entered- right on cue.
She heard Bast laugh with a feral hush, the long thick braid swaying with the sound- like the tail of a cat. A thin blade caught the light of the candles like a venus fly trap, greedily draining the luminous golds from each flame, glinting a small victory and lusting after droplets of blood promised by its possessor.
Where's Quatre? Bast's head turned ever so slightly as one of the shadows broke the silence- a tall elegant form, face hidden behind a thick fall of hair.
The golden one? Dead I suppose.
At hearing this, Trowa's anger was set free. In a breath's time, his weapon was unshielded and leveled at the vermin god's head. He fired three shots, which Bast evaded with ease.
Silly human, the braided tale swished angrily.
The sounds of lightly squeaking hinges was lost on all in the vast shadowed room until a truly blessed voice tore the quiet. And though he cried with all his illusive strength, only tender soft strains poured from his lips as he called to his beloved.
The said pilot spun around as quickly as the laws of gravity would allow- catching a pair of tired hurt eyes with his own. his voice was a whisper, a thin shard of disbelief and pure wondrous relief. He ran to him, catching the slight boy in his arms as the last of his strength died away.
No matter, Bast's icy words cut through the precious moment. I'll have all of your lives soon. Even in the darkness, the sadistic smile in those words was felt.
No more blood Erlösung- my heart can't take it.
All eyes turned to the frail silhouette beyond the threshold- her arms wrapped round herself, drawing on the last of her powers- all that she could keep from the Beast. She moved forward, taking small staggering steps until she came face to face with her salvation. Small gasps issued from the on lookers as the two stood so close.
It was so like a reflection- their bodies identical though one seemingly stronger. Their hair matched perfectly in color, though Upir's fell around her where as Erlösung's was tied in a thick swinging braid. Every curve, every shade was identical- accept for those of the eyes. The Beast's eyes were hungry- dripping with vengeance and madness, red as fresh blood beneath midnight's moon. Upir's were hurt, and soft. Her eyes alone told the tale of her pains and losses- her regret and shame, red as a rose's bud at twilight. There was a sad gentleness matched only by the sheer darkness of Erlösung. They were like pieces of the same puzzle- twin stars. Only Dorothy seemed silent without surprise as the two stared into each other.
You will not be strong without death, beloved.
Stop it! You're not protecting me- you're killing me! She swayed slightly on her feet, but held her head high, she still had her pride- and hope. Always hope. This blood is not for me. It's your own selfish lust that murders these innocents.
Before her eyes could catch the movement- Erlösung's hand was on her throat, just tight enough to call forth a choking sound. This is all for you, my love. The hand loosened, fingertips toying with the flesh beneath them. It was Dorothy's turn to utter a soft noise of disbelief. Don't look so shocked, koneko. There's a reason your instincts never allowed you to drop your guard with me. They knew better- even if you didn't. The blade of the dagger caught what little light it could before Erlösung tucked it into her boot. You came to this kingdom to kill the dove of Peace, did you not?
That was a long time ago, Relena was shot down by another, Dorothy chided, knowing not what to say. She relied purely on her training now- instinct locking away the frightened child which had struggled to come into the light these past months. Her mind and emotions raced beneath the surface as her cold mask let nothing but composure escape. Inside, she felt as though she might die.
Aa, but there is another Dove- the real Dove. The one who's identity was hidden away. The one who deserves the world itself. Were you not biding your time in this place? Waiting to strike her down? Her eyes were hard, burning with a hellish intensity. Answer me, koneko!
Dorothy's mask slipped slightly.
A quiet cry escaped Upir as Erlösung's hand constricted on her throat again. You are lying, koneko. Don't lie to me. You were going to hurt my little one, I can not forgive that. Her hand slipped from Upir's neck and rose to stoke her cheek lovingly. Did you truly believe I loved you?
This meant nothing to you? Dorothy asked, trying to hide the pain and anger from her words. You did this to keep me away from Upir?
Erlösung turned to her, a mocking smile twisting her lips. Are you hurt, koneko? The words dripped with sarcastic concern. I needed your trust, I needed to know you before you could be disposed of. How could I hope to become you if I did not know your mind, your nervous habits, you hiding heart? She turned back to Upir, careful not to miss the utter devastation in her sad eyes. Oh, beloved- she never would have wanted you. Don't you see- if I became her, we would both be happy again, just like old times. Her smile was soft and dangerous as she continued to pet Upir's soft skin.
You were going to kill her? You would steal her form and have me believe you had gone. You would make me think I was free? You are a monster. Upir tried to pull away, but Erlösung held to her.
You think I didn't know why you look at her that way? You're disgustingly obvious my love. You wanted her to want you too- it's sweet really, the princess and the soldier. I would have made you happy like she never could. I would indulge your little fantasies of playing house- living a quiet happy life. Being a family. That's what you want isn't it? To have a family again? Do you think she would have given you that? Do you!? Her hand clutched the back of Upir's neck, pulling her face close. She dropped a chaste kiss on the princesses forehead. You never would have known. I would have made you happy again beloved. You would have your family, your bloody angel. She growled her words, unable to hide her feral, dagger sharp teeth behind her silky lips.
A hushed whimpering sound, like that of an injured kitten escaped Upir's lips. The last piece of the puzzle had fallen into place. Erlösung knew Upir had been displeased with her form- identical to Upir's. Knew Upir was displeased with everything she was. The Beast knew of her feeling's towards the golden-haired assassin, even if she had scarcely admitted them to herself- And so, had concocted a plan. Thinking that if Upir believed Erlösung had set her free, and the latter had stolen the form of the sad-eyed princess's heart's desire, Upir would be happy again, and her salvation could continue to watch over, and protect her.
The Beast knew Upir would be swallowed by the sensations of freedom and happiness. She would never know the girl by her side was the guardian angel she so rejoiced in the absence of. It was perfect. Erlösung would become Dorothy Catalonia- she would make her beloved happy once more. Then the world- the universe would be at their fingertips.
(Astarte within the sky,)
Relena could not believe her ears, though they were the most reliable set in the room. Bast, or Erlösung, as Upir had addressed her- it did not make sense, what was she that she could think she could steal the form of another? Relena found herself wondering what this demon's true form might be- it certainly was not the one she held now, she was Upir's replica in this shell.
Heero, pinch me. As requested, Heero pinched the exposed skin of Duo's arm. Ow! Well, guess I'm not dreaming.
I don't understand- what is she? It was Wufei who dared to ask the unspoken question on all there minds. It was though they had become part of the scenery. Upir, Dorothy, and Erlösung had completely disregarded their presence. This was not their battle after all. It was the princess's.
Quatre shifted in Trowa's arms. Weakly, he began to speak. It's a Cait Sith. At least, that's what Upir called it. It's some sort of shape shifting demon- that's the only way I can think to describe it. He paused, taking deep rasping breaths. It thinks it's protecting Upir. It wants to atone for all the wrong done to her- to sit her on the throne of the universe. Everything it has done, the killing, the battle, it's all for the Upir.
Shape shifting? Heero snorted quietly. Duo and Relena exchanged knowing glances. They could not really expect anyone to believe such a thing- unless of course they had some sort of experience. Wufei caught Duo's eyes in his own, sending him a small smile. Relena slipped unnoticed from her hiding place in Duo's shirt and padded softly over to the solitary Dragon.
There are things in this world that are not easily understood or explained, Yuy, Wufei said as he lifted the kitten into his arms. To Relena he whispered, I'm sure you know that better than any of us, Mab. She nuzzled his hand affectionately, and they all turned there attention back to the battle before them. They were simply observers here now. There was nothing any of them could do.
Dorothy stood still as her frozen heart. Erlösung- her Bast, was going to sacrifice her to the happiness of a princess who wanted nothing more than the real Dorothy to want her. She ached to scream, to tear at her own skin- anything to loose the squall within her. Upir wants me? Her mind poured over the silent question, returning to it at every moment of silence. She did not understand- why would this Dove crave the affections of such a monster?
You couldn't be satisfied, could you? Erlösung did not try to hide the anger now. It flowed freely from her words and fingers. Her hold on Upir tightened again. All I want is to see you safe and happy. Have I not done everything in my power for your smiles? Why couldn't you stay in your chamber? Why could you not stay out of my way this one night?! I promise you would have been happy in the morning. I would love you as her, and as she never will!
You know that's not what I wanted, Upir managed to whisper as a fierce cough tore through her frail chest. Please let me go, you're hurting me.
Her plea was ignored by hate deafened ears. Look at what I have done for you! I made the people see you for what you are- for what you always were. You are deserving of the universe, beloved. You are not a servant- you are not the nothing your parents left you to become. I have given you the world! Don't you understand? I would have given you a family again. You and I, and your little brother, we could have been together forever. You are my queen, and you could be all the universe's. I will love you, and honor you- I will protect you. All you have to do, love, is go back to your room, go to sleep, and forget what you have seen this night. Erlösung's eyes pleaded with her, begging her to be obedient.
I- I, Tears melted from her eyes, dancing down her pale skin. I can't. It was a simple answer, from all too familiar lips, but as the words poured from Upir and into Erlösung, a sound like tortured seraphs filled the air. Erlösung buried her hands in Upir's hair, pulling her against her cold body, and then- thrusting her away with tigerish intensity. A mangled cry burst from the fallen princess as she hit the hard marbled floor with a loud crack.
Dorothy was ripped from her paralyss.
You ungrateful wretch! Erlösung threw her words at Upir like daggers. How dare you defy me! After everything I have done for you! I should kill you where you lie you pathetic creature!
Dorothy ran at Erlösung, pistol in hand. She would not break her promise- not when she finally understood what her words had meant. She promised Upir she would set her free- and so she would.
Erlösung's reflexes were unsurprisingly quick. Cat-like, even in this form. She out maneuvered Dorothy's attack and landed a sound fist on her jaw- knocking the weapon from Dorothy's grasp with her free hand. She counter attacked with lightning's pace, grasping Dorothy by the neck and pulling the hungry blade from her boot, allowing it to loom dangerously close to one of Dorothy's cloudy eyes.
All at once, Erlösung felt a light weight impact across her shoulder blade. The blow was strong enough to cause her a moment of unstableness which Dorothy used to escape her hold. Erlösung turned, fire in her eyes- beholding her attacker. A small boy stood mere feet behind her, holding Lord Peacecrafts scepter, once a decoration in the lavish throne room, but to the boy- a formable weapon. No one heard his movements, or knew how long he had been crouched in the shadows of the vast shadow inhabited room.
Leave her alone, you wanted blood and you got it. Set her free. The small accented voice carried though the air. He stood proudly, though his form was less than intimidating- he would not be ignored.
Duo's voice sounded unfamiliar in his own ears. Meek and helpless.
The boy turned to him slightly. Ello, Inan. His words were sad, filled with regret. I'm sorry- I never thought it would go this far.
Oh, ototo, Erlösung frowned mockingly.
Don't call me that! he snapped. You may look like her, but you are not my sister.
Erlösung grinned, soft lips curling back maliciously to reveal her ruthless teeth. That's not what you said when I asked you to murder the Dove for me.
Duo's eyes shot from Grey to the kitten cradled in Wufei's arms. Her eyes were wide and scared as his. Grey lowered his head, staring at the floor with shame plainly lit on his features.
I- I didn't know, I, He looked to his sister, still lying where she had fallen. I thought she was you, I- didn't know.
I believe the braided baka, Erlösung tilted her head, motioning across the room to Duo. Owes a few bullet wounds to you as well my dear little brother.
Duo drew in a sharp breath. It was you? His hands ghosted their way to the scars still evident on his chest. In the clinic, when I was shot- He turned his eyes to Heero, hoping for some sort of comfort. He did not get any. Heero was as shocked and betrayed as Duo.
I'm sorry, Inan. I thought only for the best. She said you were going to hurt Upir. She told me you would expose her, and- and- send her away. She said I'd never see her again! I didn't want to hurt you. . . Please, believe me!
Duo was speechless- all he could do was offer a slight nod, and let his tormented thoughts run circles around his mind.
Enough! I grow tired of you, ototo, Erlösung lunged at the boy, catching him by the arm and pulling him close. Without hesitation, or a spared glance at Upir, she buried her teeth in the soft flesh of his throat. He did not cry out- he did not make a sound at all as he crumpled to the floor.
Upir reached towards him, knowing already that she could not save him. She burst into hysterical tears, harsh coughs and sobs tearing through her. she whispered his name through her agony. Erlösung kicked his body aside as though it were nothing more than a simple obstruction to the pristine beauty of the room. She flipped the dagger around in her hand as Upir tried in vain to rise to her feet.
Stay down, you will only cause yourself unnecessary pain, love. Erlösung took a determined step towards the fallen angel. You know I didn't want it to be this way. I you had only listened, She crouched beside Upir, stroking the dagger down the side of her lips. A thin rivulet of blood dripped down Upir's chin and onto the pale skin of her neck. It clung to the dagger like a lover, shrouding the thin blade with this crimson life.
(While ever to her dear Eulalie upturns her matron eye-)
Dorothy pushed her fear and uncertainties aside. She would not break her promise. She had been trained for this moment- this battle. This was her battle like none other had been before. She had fought on order, on command- never for herself. But now, as she watched the Beast lean over Upir and kiss the blood from her torn lips, Dorothy knew at last what she must fight for. For Upir, if no one else.
She tackled Erlösung, sending them both rolling away from where Upir lie, helpless in a tangle of long red tresses and pale silk skirts.
Erlösung wore her shock unmasked as she fought with Dorothy for dominance of the yearning blade between them. Dorothy heard herself cry out as the dagger bit the skin of her arm. With all of her strength, she twisted so that she lied on top of Erlösung, there faces mere inches apart. She grasped the dagger so hard, her hand bled.
I once thought that I might love you, she whispered against Erlösung's ear. But now I know, She pressed the blade into the flesh above her heart, penetrating slowly. You deserve to die- by my hand, and with her blood. She pressed the iron further, Upir's blood- still clinging to the blade disappeared within Erlösung's chest and into her heart.
Erlösung withered beneath her, an inhuman sound rupturing from her lips as she began to change- slowly at first, then with rage and thunder. The same sound poured from Upir's lips, though softer and with greater hurt.
Dorothy stood, revealing the lifeless form of a large black cat- red eyes staring blankly at the skies. She wasted no time savoring her kill, her victory. She ran to Upir's side, kneeling beside the still form of her princess. She reached a hand to her, softly caressing her pale cheek.
Upir's eyes fluttered slightly, falling closed once more as she drew in a ragged breath. she pulled another breath through her broken lips. I- I,
Dorothy pressed her thumb lightly to Upir's bleeding lips, her hand still caressing her cheek.
A ghost of a smile crossed those lips, a slight sound of comforting laughter twirling in the air. You're always there to soothe me, She coughed violently, more blood gathering on her mouth. When do I get to soothe you? When do I rock you to sleep? Lullaby, sweet Dorothy, my angel dressed in blood. Her smile faded as her head fell to the side, a small pool of blood gathering beneath her- running through her hair and staining the light fabric of her gown.
She gave her only silence.
Dorothy ran her hand down the still face of her Dove, reaching her neck and searching desperately for a pulse. Somebody help her! Her voice was frightened- such an unfamiliar emotion to a girl like Dorothy Catalonia. Upir! Open your eyes!