Disclaimer: I do not own or have any title, interest or right in either
Gundam Wing or Sailor Moon. This fanfiction is not being used for
commercial purposes. I own all other rights (to the extent legally
permissible) in connection with this writing.
* * * * *
She felt like she was drowning in an endless sea of darkness. The entity known as Ninth Mistress had cast Princess Hotaru's consciousness into a world of shadows. She could only feel pain and hopelessness surround her. The consciousness of the young girl struggled against the overwhelming blackness that threatened to swallow her. Hotaru had lost track of all time and space, and was wandering lost within the confines of her own mind.
The young princess would occasionally run into a random memory of her past.
She came upon the memory of her father. It was a vision of despair on her father's face when he came upon her dying body. He had called out to the heavens in desperation, but his prayers were only answered by something evil.
A moment later, her consciousness stumbled across a memory of Hotaru's first meeting with Princess Usagi. The young, blond princess was awkward, tentative, and anxious. But there was an innocence and purity in her that was unmatched by any other person. It was ever since that meeting, that Ninth Mistress awakened and sought to gain control.
"Ninth Mistress," a deep, menacing voice beckoned through the darkness.
"Yes, my Master," answered the entity known as Ninth Mistress.
Hotaru's consciousness drifted passively towards the conversation, hoping that her presence would go undetected.
"I hunger for the energy of the Moon," murmured the dark and resonant voice. "I am still a shadow of my true self. Do not disappoint me."
"I will not fail you, my Master," Ninth Mistress promised.
"I sense that the stars of the covenant are drawing near and growing in power," the deep voice rumbled. "The power of the covenant banished me centuries ago. I will not let that happen again. You must be wary of their approach, the wandering star of Saturnia sleeps within that borrowed body of yours. We cannot allow their true powers to be awakened."
"Yes, my Master," came the automatic reply.
Hotaru suddenly felt a mental presence scrutinize her.
Ninth Mistress smirked mentally.
Hotaru chose not to respond to the taunt from the being known as Ninth Mistress.
I enjoy tormenting you, little one. Did you know that my Master has sent his most powerful servants to break the covenant? Once that is accomplished, you can suffer as a captive in this body for all eternity... Ninth Mistress informed Hotaru.
Hotaru felt her consciousness submerged once again into darkness.
* * * * *
Sir Duo Maxwell idly toyed with a dagger in his hand, as he listened to the conversation of the others in the room. The young knight was sitting on the floor, slumped against the wall. His normally enthusiastic demeanor was somewhat more subdued this morning.
Several of the knights and the princesses had gathered into one of the rooms of the Crown Inn. Sir Yuuichirou was not present, for he had been sent to keep a watchful eye on the mysterious bard, who was resting in the lounge area.
"I still can't believe we're even having this conversation," Wufei snapped angrily, from the corner of the room. "We should be travelling south as we speak."
"Rei's still recovering," Makoto pointed out. "We can't be travelling until she's rested at least for the remainder of the day. It can't hurt to talk about this."
"I've already told you..." Wufei began.
"He's no ordinary bard," Heero cut in tersely. He leaned back against the far wall. "We cannot simply ignore him. We have to reach a decision on his fate."
Heero turned to look at the raven-haired princess. His winter blue eyes stared at her.
"What do you think about Trowa?" he asked quietly.
Rei paused for a moment. "You are correct, he is not an ordinary man. And we know nothing about him. But I don't sense any malevolence from him. He has a strange aura, but I can't place it."
Heero stared at her. "I saw him use magic. I thought you stated that only royalty from the Allied Kingdoms, demons and only certain others can use that power. What is he?"
"I really cannot tell," Rei admitted. "But he cannot be from the Allied Kingdoms, for the magic of the wandering stars manifest only in women. Which means he must either be a demon or one of those rare individuals who have inherited magical powers."
"All the more reason to leave him behind," Wufei snorted, folding his arms across his chest.
Rei ignored the outburst, and she continued speaking, "He is travelling in the same direction as us. If Trowa is truly not a threat, it won't matter that he comes with us. If he is dangerous, I would like to be able to keep an eye on him. After all, it could be more dangerous if he follows us without our knowledge."
"Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer," Ami murmured reflectively.
"I see," Heero acknowledged quietly. He glanced at the other princesses, who seemed to nod in agreement.
"Yui, I can't believe you're even considering this," Wufei grumbled in a low voice.
Heero turned to look at Wufei. "Do you have a better suggestion?"
Wufei stared at Heero for a moment, and shook his head in disgust. "If he comes along, I will be watching him with one hand on my sword."
"I wouldn't want it any other way," Heero nodded. He looked at Duo. "What do you think, Duo?"
Duo glanced up and shrugged. "As long as it doesn't interfere with our mission, I don't really care."
Minako frowned slightly. There was something in his voice that didn't sound quite right. She was beginning to feel guilty about what had happened the night before, but she quickly banished the thoughts. There was absolutely no reason for her to feel guilty. She convinced herself that he was completely out of line considering the circumstances.
"Good," Heero grunted. "We'll let Trowa come along. Wufei and I will be responsible for keeping an eye on him. If he makes one false move, neither of us will hesitate to kill him."
Makoto looked as if she wanted to say something. After a moment, she simply turned her head away from both Heero and Wufei.
"I think we should depart as soon as possible," Rei announced. "I feel our Princess' life force waning..."
"You're not well enough to travel," Ami spoke up. "You need at least a few more hours of sleep. You won't be able to help if you're incapacitated. Besides, if your health worsens while we are travelling, it will slow us down in the end."
Rei was about to speak, but Heero cut her off.
"Princess Ami is right. Get some rest. We'll leave tonight," Heero ordered in a firm voice. He picked up his sword and stalked out the door.
Wufei cast a glare at Makoto, before leaving the room as well. Duo pulled himself up and followed after his friends, not even bothering to look at the princesses.
"Those men are in a bad mood," Makoto observed sourly.
"And you still haven't explained why you're defending Trowa," Minako noted with a slight smile. "I hope it's not because he's tall, dark and handsome."
Makoto snorted. "He may be handsome, but that's got nothing do with it. He saved both my life and Yuiichirou's life. In fact, he even saved Rei's life. It would be wrong for us to do anything but let him come with us."
"I suppose," Ami agreed uneasily.
"I hope you're right about him," Minako told the brunette.
Makoto shrugged. As the others turned to a different topic, Makoto muttered under her breath. "I hope so too..."
* * * * *
The room was filled with menacing, dark shadows. It was devoid of any decorations and was occupied by a solitary figure. The figure's golden hair and green eyes glimmered in the darkness.
Another figure materialized into the room. The new arrival was a taller and more powerfully built man.
"What do you want, Zoisite?" the taller figure scowled in a contemptuous voice. His icy, blue eyes cast a thinly veiled look of disgust at the blond figure.
"You still haven't learned any manners, have you, Lord General Nephrite?" Zoisite laughed in a mocking tone.
"I came here only because High Lord General Kunzite insisted. I want nothing to do with an untrustworthy cur like you," Nephrite retorted hotly. Nephrite brushed away the few strands of dark, auburn hair that had fallen in front of his face.
Zoisite paused to regard the other man for a moment.
"Lord General Nephrite, I require your assistance to fulfill the task entrusted to us by our Master," Zoisite informed him. "High Lord General Kunzite has approved of my plan."
"What kind of plan?"
"I need to lure the stars of the covenant into a trap. With your special powers, I am sure you can lead them to the city of Saule al-Leusa. While you lure them there, I will be making preparations. The covenant will be broken," Zoisite smiled pleasantly.
"I can handle them by myself," Nephrite sneered.
"I doubt that. Lord General Jadeite was unable to handle a lone princess. I doubt if you could take all of them on at once. Just make sure they arrive in Saule al-Leusa in two days' time, and I will handle the rest."
"What exactly are you scheming, Zoisite?" Nephrite questioned suspiciously. "Your plans are always far more elaborate than necessary!"
"I'd rather not say. I wouldn't want to spoil the surprise!" Zoisite laughed in a sinister voice.
"Whatever!" Nephrite snarled. "I'll help you, only because High Lord General Kunzite has commanded me."
With those words, Lord General Nephrite vanished into the shadows.
"He gets so easily worked up," Zoisite commented, glancing over his shoulder.
A calm, deep voice spoke from behind Zoisite, "I hope this scheme isn't motivated by your desire to have the Star of Mercuria for yourself."
Zoisite's emerald eyes flickered with amusement.
"Jealous?" Zoisite murmured in an impish tone.
"Hardly," the deep tenor replied smoothly. "However, I sometimes think you are too clever for your own good."
Zoisite shrugged. "Oh really? And I thought it was one of my more endearing traits!"
The laughter of the golden-haired general echoed throughout the dark chamber.
* * * * *
The young knight continued to adjust the straps on some of the packhorses. They would be departing within the hour, so he wanted to make sure that the packhorses were properly loaded. Most of the others were still eating, and Wufei was occupied watching over Trowa. This left Sir Heero alone in the stables.
He wanted to be alone. It gave him a chance to consider their situation and allow him to make plans for their mission. It also gave him the peace and solitude he needed. Some people, like Duo, thrived on the presence of others. Heero, however, needed his own space and time.
Of course, such peace and quiet could not last forever.
Heero noted the soft footsteps approaching the stables. His right hand swiftly went to the hilt of his sword, as his cobalt, blue eyes stared at the entrance of the stables.
A beautiful, blond haired princess poked her head through the doorway.
"How are you doing, Sir Heero?" Minako asked, her eyes dancing with mischief. It looked like she was having trouble containing the hint of a grin lurking on her face.
"Fine," Heero grunted, returning to work on the packhorses.
Minako skipped lightly into the stables, and pretended to be interested in what Heero was doing. Heero found the pretense somewhat annoying, but he kept his mouth shut.
"Working on getting the packhorses ready?" she inquired casually, making a show of peering over his shoulder.
"Yes," Heero replied in his monotone. He was hoping that his monosyllabic responses would drive her away. Apparently, his strategy was not working.
Minako grinned like a cat.
"Fine, be that way. I'll just ask my question and be on my merry way," Minako informed him.
Heero raised an eyebrow, but maintained his silence. He walked over to the next horse, hoping that the blond princess would depart Instead, Minako followed him with her ever present grin.
"So where did you get those beautiful flowers?" Minako inquired in a sweet voice. "They were quite lovely, and Rei loved them."
Heero's jaw clenched imperceptibly, and his grip on the packhorse's straps tightened slightly.
"What flowers?" he asked, keeping his voice level.
"You know what I'm talking about! Those lovely white Casablanca lilies!" Minako beamed brightly. "It's a great way to show your affection for Rei. She's such a beautiful..."
"I didn't give her any flowers," Heero interrupted in a cold voice. He noticed that his pulse was quickening and his stomach was curling up into a ball. He ignored the odd sensation and focused on getting the packhorses ready.
Minako paused, obviously surprised. "You didn't? But, then..."
"It wasn't me," he told her curtly, and walked off to the next horse.
Minako did not follow him. Instead, she looked at him thoughtfully for a moment, before another grin spread across her face.
"Well, it looks like you have a rival," Minako smirked. She twirled around and left the stables.
Heero glared at her departing figure. She was talking about foolish things. Heero was a royal knight in service of the King of Luminaea. He didn't have time for this nonsense. But then again, why was he so bothered by the fact that someone else had given flowers to the raven-haired princess? Why indeed?
* * * * *
Minako walked out of the stables, a grin still on her face. She was wondering who could have sent Rei those flowers. If it wasn't Heero, it must have been one of the other knights. She didn't get very far into her line of thought, before a shadow detached itself from the wall and stood in front of her.
Minako jumped back in surprise.
"Interesting conversation," the figure observed sarcastically. Minako blinked. She recognized the voice.
"D-Duo! What are you doing here?" Minako demanded. The young knight stepped out into the dim moonlight.
"After you left from dinner, I followed you. I wanted to come and apologize for my behavior last night," Duo explained, a hint of coldness in his voice. "But when I saw you go into the stables, I decided to wait outside for you. I couldn't help but overhear the conversation."
"What about it?" Minako asked. The young blond stared defiantly at the young knight.
"You seem perfectly happy encouraging Heero to fall in love, despite these circumstances. But you still can't accept me?"
Minako felt the strength of her conviction falter. She did realize that her words were less than fair to Duo. She looked away.
"I know Heero won't do anything to jeopardize the mission," Minako answered with as much confidence as she could muster.
"Have you so little faith in me?" Duo asked, his voice softening. His head dipped slightly. "Are you just like everyone else? I thought of all people, you would understand me."
Minako turned to look at Duo. She could see the deep sadness in his eyes. It was something she had never clearly seen beneath the cheerful mask that he always wore.
"I do understand, Duo," she consoled him, putting her hand on one of his arms. "But I can't let myself be caught up in love. Not with you. Not with anyone."
Duo's sad eyes looked deep into hers. He stepped closer to her. "Why is that?"
Minako forced herself to grin, hoping to hold back the bitterness that she felt.
"It's not something I want to talk about, Duo," she told him in a soft voice. "Please understand..."
Duo lifted his hands to her face, but he saw her shrink back slightly. The young knight dropped his hands back to his sides. He nodded slowly.
"I understand," he stated in a quiet voice. "You hide your sadness almost as well as I do."
Minako's grin tightened slightly, but it didn't disappear. She was feeling the loneliness sweep through her, but she wouldn't let it take control.
"I'll take that as a compliment," she said in a light tone that was clearly forced. "We still have to rescue Princess Usagi and Princess Hotaru. Let's go back to the inn and get the others. I'll race you back!"
Minako sprinted off towards the Crown Inn.
His old smile flickered across his face.
"Of course, your highness. A splendid idea," he murmured quietly to himself, before chasing after her.
* * * * *
A large caravan of men mounted on camels and horses wound their way over a large sand dune. The evening stars twinkled silently overhead. The large group headed steadily north, most of the men were uniformed Hadi home guard. At the head of the line was the Desert Prince and Lord General Zoisite.
"Lovely evening, isn't it!" Zoisite breathed with a slight smile curling up on his lips. There was a distinct lack of sincerity in the man's voice.
"Yes, it is," Quatre replied cautiously. He was still suspicious of the Lord General. The their conversation was laced with half-truths, misleading words, and even bald-faced lies.
Zoisite glanced over his shoulders at the score of men following them. "I understand that your father believes in pacifism. Most of these men do not appear to be trained warriors, but rather guards who have never seen a real battlefield."
Quatre studied Zoisite for a moment. In a measured voice, Quatre spoke, "I have not lived in my father's palace for a long time. I cannot properly speak as to these men's skills or experience in combat."
"But you are a trained warrior, are you not?" Zoisite asked, feigning innocence.
Quatre nodded.
Zoisite's smile widened slightly. "It's nice to know that there is at least a few trained warriors among your people. Otherwise, it would be too easy..."
"What are you talking about?" Quatre demanded.
Zoisite offered a mysterious smile. "I understand that you and your band of men are the real reason that the kingdom has not fallen. Those men behind us, have never fought in a battle. If they ever were to see a real battle, I'm sure they would be easily cut down."
"It is my sworn duty to make sure that never happens," Quatre told him.
"Your sworn duty? To whom?" Zoisite queried in a mocking voice. "Your father disapproves of your act. Is there a higher authority that you swear allegiance to?"
"It is my sworn duty to my father's people," Quatre replied in a grave voice. "I will do everything in my power to protect them."
"Will that be enough?" Zoisite smirked. His green eyes glittered with a maliciousness that Quatre had never seen before in another man.
Quatre began to feel anger boiling up within, but he quickly restrained himself. He was astute enough to know that Zoisite was taunting him. Quatre simply shrugged off Zoisite's comment and looked away.
"We will arrive at the site in the early morning," Zoisite remarked in a casual voice.
"Where are we headed, anyhow?" Quatre demanded in a suspicious voice. "You claim that this was a site where I had slaughtered innocents!"
Zoisite smirked. "Our destination is Saule al-Leusa."
* * * * *
Author's Notes: Sorry about taking so long to update, but work has been hectic for the past few weeks. I hope everyone enjoyed this chapter. Thanks!
Author's Responses/Comments to Reviews:
Sadie Joyce - Myst Lady - Thanks for your review! Poor Duo isn't any closer to kissing the object of his affection. As far as Makoto is concerned, I think she's definitely ready to punch Wufei at any moment. I'm glad you got over your writer's block and published another historical romance. It's really good!
Liquid Ice - I'm glad you like this, and I'm glad you made an exception for me! Thank you for all your wonderful compliments, but I don't think I really deserve them. I tried to keep the suspense up in this chapter, and I hoped you liked it!
Kaiya - You are so correct! Zoisite's powers and devious mind can't be good for the heroes, but it helps the plot. In fact, I'm having way to much fun writing any scenes that involve Zoisite. And you're right about the whole Trowa thing, he definitely falls into the category of "not being who he seems to be".
Princess Ren - Thanks for your review, and it's good to hear that you like the story. I guess I gave a partial answer to your question about the Casablancas. A complete answer will eventually be provided in the upcoming chapter or so.
Shi no Tenshi/Megami - Glad you like this story! By the way, cool name!
thescientist - I'm happy to hear you liked the last chapter, and hopefully this one too! You are correct about Trowa releasing the shadow into Rubeus (it was the only way he could get rid of it). I really do try to keep Rei with her manga character, because I like it much more than the anime character (I like both, but her manga character has greater depth and is quite intriguing). You're absolutely right about the generals, they are fun to use, and I had to incorporate at least one more in this chapter.
* * * * *
She felt like she was drowning in an endless sea of darkness. The entity known as Ninth Mistress had cast Princess Hotaru's consciousness into a world of shadows. She could only feel pain and hopelessness surround her. The consciousness of the young girl struggled against the overwhelming blackness that threatened to swallow her. Hotaru had lost track of all time and space, and was wandering lost within the confines of her own mind.
The young princess would occasionally run into a random memory of her past.
She came upon the memory of her father. It was a vision of despair on her father's face when he came upon her dying body. He had called out to the heavens in desperation, but his prayers were only answered by something evil.
A moment later, her consciousness stumbled across a memory of Hotaru's first meeting with Princess Usagi. The young, blond princess was awkward, tentative, and anxious. But there was an innocence and purity in her that was unmatched by any other person. It was ever since that meeting, that Ninth Mistress awakened and sought to gain control.
"Ninth Mistress," a deep, menacing voice beckoned through the darkness.
"Yes, my Master," answered the entity known as Ninth Mistress.
Hotaru's consciousness drifted passively towards the conversation, hoping that her presence would go undetected.
"I hunger for the energy of the Moon," murmured the dark and resonant voice. "I am still a shadow of my true self. Do not disappoint me."
"I will not fail you, my Master," Ninth Mistress promised.
"I sense that the stars of the covenant are drawing near and growing in power," the deep voice rumbled. "The power of the covenant banished me centuries ago. I will not let that happen again. You must be wary of their approach, the wandering star of Saturnia sleeps within that borrowed body of yours. We cannot allow their true powers to be awakened."
"Yes, my Master," came the automatic reply.
Hotaru suddenly felt a mental presence scrutinize her.
Ninth Mistress smirked mentally.
Hotaru chose not to respond to the taunt from the being known as Ninth Mistress.
I enjoy tormenting you, little one. Did you know that my Master has sent his most powerful servants to break the covenant? Once that is accomplished, you can suffer as a captive in this body for all eternity... Ninth Mistress informed Hotaru.
Hotaru felt her consciousness submerged once again into darkness.
* * * * *
Sir Duo Maxwell idly toyed with a dagger in his hand, as he listened to the conversation of the others in the room. The young knight was sitting on the floor, slumped against the wall. His normally enthusiastic demeanor was somewhat more subdued this morning.
Several of the knights and the princesses had gathered into one of the rooms of the Crown Inn. Sir Yuuichirou was not present, for he had been sent to keep a watchful eye on the mysterious bard, who was resting in the lounge area.
"I still can't believe we're even having this conversation," Wufei snapped angrily, from the corner of the room. "We should be travelling south as we speak."
"Rei's still recovering," Makoto pointed out. "We can't be travelling until she's rested at least for the remainder of the day. It can't hurt to talk about this."
"I've already told you..." Wufei began.
"He's no ordinary bard," Heero cut in tersely. He leaned back against the far wall. "We cannot simply ignore him. We have to reach a decision on his fate."
Heero turned to look at the raven-haired princess. His winter blue eyes stared at her.
"What do you think about Trowa?" he asked quietly.
Rei paused for a moment. "You are correct, he is not an ordinary man. And we know nothing about him. But I don't sense any malevolence from him. He has a strange aura, but I can't place it."
Heero stared at her. "I saw him use magic. I thought you stated that only royalty from the Allied Kingdoms, demons and only certain others can use that power. What is he?"
"I really cannot tell," Rei admitted. "But he cannot be from the Allied Kingdoms, for the magic of the wandering stars manifest only in women. Which means he must either be a demon or one of those rare individuals who have inherited magical powers."
"All the more reason to leave him behind," Wufei snorted, folding his arms across his chest.
Rei ignored the outburst, and she continued speaking, "He is travelling in the same direction as us. If Trowa is truly not a threat, it won't matter that he comes with us. If he is dangerous, I would like to be able to keep an eye on him. After all, it could be more dangerous if he follows us without our knowledge."
"Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer," Ami murmured reflectively.
"I see," Heero acknowledged quietly. He glanced at the other princesses, who seemed to nod in agreement.
"Yui, I can't believe you're even considering this," Wufei grumbled in a low voice.
Heero turned to look at Wufei. "Do you have a better suggestion?"
Wufei stared at Heero for a moment, and shook his head in disgust. "If he comes along, I will be watching him with one hand on my sword."
"I wouldn't want it any other way," Heero nodded. He looked at Duo. "What do you think, Duo?"
Duo glanced up and shrugged. "As long as it doesn't interfere with our mission, I don't really care."
Minako frowned slightly. There was something in his voice that didn't sound quite right. She was beginning to feel guilty about what had happened the night before, but she quickly banished the thoughts. There was absolutely no reason for her to feel guilty. She convinced herself that he was completely out of line considering the circumstances.
"Good," Heero grunted. "We'll let Trowa come along. Wufei and I will be responsible for keeping an eye on him. If he makes one false move, neither of us will hesitate to kill him."
Makoto looked as if she wanted to say something. After a moment, she simply turned her head away from both Heero and Wufei.
"I think we should depart as soon as possible," Rei announced. "I feel our Princess' life force waning..."
"You're not well enough to travel," Ami spoke up. "You need at least a few more hours of sleep. You won't be able to help if you're incapacitated. Besides, if your health worsens while we are travelling, it will slow us down in the end."
Rei was about to speak, but Heero cut her off.
"Princess Ami is right. Get some rest. We'll leave tonight," Heero ordered in a firm voice. He picked up his sword and stalked out the door.
Wufei cast a glare at Makoto, before leaving the room as well. Duo pulled himself up and followed after his friends, not even bothering to look at the princesses.
"Those men are in a bad mood," Makoto observed sourly.
"And you still haven't explained why you're defending Trowa," Minako noted with a slight smile. "I hope it's not because he's tall, dark and handsome."
Makoto snorted. "He may be handsome, but that's got nothing do with it. He saved both my life and Yuiichirou's life. In fact, he even saved Rei's life. It would be wrong for us to do anything but let him come with us."
"I suppose," Ami agreed uneasily.
"I hope you're right about him," Minako told the brunette.
Makoto shrugged. As the others turned to a different topic, Makoto muttered under her breath. "I hope so too..."
* * * * *
The room was filled with menacing, dark shadows. It was devoid of any decorations and was occupied by a solitary figure. The figure's golden hair and green eyes glimmered in the darkness.
Another figure materialized into the room. The new arrival was a taller and more powerfully built man.
"What do you want, Zoisite?" the taller figure scowled in a contemptuous voice. His icy, blue eyes cast a thinly veiled look of disgust at the blond figure.
"You still haven't learned any manners, have you, Lord General Nephrite?" Zoisite laughed in a mocking tone.
"I came here only because High Lord General Kunzite insisted. I want nothing to do with an untrustworthy cur like you," Nephrite retorted hotly. Nephrite brushed away the few strands of dark, auburn hair that had fallen in front of his face.
Zoisite paused to regard the other man for a moment.
"Lord General Nephrite, I require your assistance to fulfill the task entrusted to us by our Master," Zoisite informed him. "High Lord General Kunzite has approved of my plan."
"What kind of plan?"
"I need to lure the stars of the covenant into a trap. With your special powers, I am sure you can lead them to the city of Saule al-Leusa. While you lure them there, I will be making preparations. The covenant will be broken," Zoisite smiled pleasantly.
"I can handle them by myself," Nephrite sneered.
"I doubt that. Lord General Jadeite was unable to handle a lone princess. I doubt if you could take all of them on at once. Just make sure they arrive in Saule al-Leusa in two days' time, and I will handle the rest."
"What exactly are you scheming, Zoisite?" Nephrite questioned suspiciously. "Your plans are always far more elaborate than necessary!"
"I'd rather not say. I wouldn't want to spoil the surprise!" Zoisite laughed in a sinister voice.
"Whatever!" Nephrite snarled. "I'll help you, only because High Lord General Kunzite has commanded me."
With those words, Lord General Nephrite vanished into the shadows.
"He gets so easily worked up," Zoisite commented, glancing over his shoulder.
A calm, deep voice spoke from behind Zoisite, "I hope this scheme isn't motivated by your desire to have the Star of Mercuria for yourself."
Zoisite's emerald eyes flickered with amusement.
"Jealous?" Zoisite murmured in an impish tone.
"Hardly," the deep tenor replied smoothly. "However, I sometimes think you are too clever for your own good."
Zoisite shrugged. "Oh really? And I thought it was one of my more endearing traits!"
The laughter of the golden-haired general echoed throughout the dark chamber.
* * * * *
The young knight continued to adjust the straps on some of the packhorses. They would be departing within the hour, so he wanted to make sure that the packhorses were properly loaded. Most of the others were still eating, and Wufei was occupied watching over Trowa. This left Sir Heero alone in the stables.
He wanted to be alone. It gave him a chance to consider their situation and allow him to make plans for their mission. It also gave him the peace and solitude he needed. Some people, like Duo, thrived on the presence of others. Heero, however, needed his own space and time.
Of course, such peace and quiet could not last forever.
Heero noted the soft footsteps approaching the stables. His right hand swiftly went to the hilt of his sword, as his cobalt, blue eyes stared at the entrance of the stables.
A beautiful, blond haired princess poked her head through the doorway.
"How are you doing, Sir Heero?" Minako asked, her eyes dancing with mischief. It looked like she was having trouble containing the hint of a grin lurking on her face.
"Fine," Heero grunted, returning to work on the packhorses.
Minako skipped lightly into the stables, and pretended to be interested in what Heero was doing. Heero found the pretense somewhat annoying, but he kept his mouth shut.
"Working on getting the packhorses ready?" she inquired casually, making a show of peering over his shoulder.
"Yes," Heero replied in his monotone. He was hoping that his monosyllabic responses would drive her away. Apparently, his strategy was not working.
Minako grinned like a cat.
"Fine, be that way. I'll just ask my question and be on my merry way," Minako informed him.
Heero raised an eyebrow, but maintained his silence. He walked over to the next horse, hoping that the blond princess would depart Instead, Minako followed him with her ever present grin.
"So where did you get those beautiful flowers?" Minako inquired in a sweet voice. "They were quite lovely, and Rei loved them."
Heero's jaw clenched imperceptibly, and his grip on the packhorse's straps tightened slightly.
"What flowers?" he asked, keeping his voice level.
"You know what I'm talking about! Those lovely white Casablanca lilies!" Minako beamed brightly. "It's a great way to show your affection for Rei. She's such a beautiful..."
"I didn't give her any flowers," Heero interrupted in a cold voice. He noticed that his pulse was quickening and his stomach was curling up into a ball. He ignored the odd sensation and focused on getting the packhorses ready.
Minako paused, obviously surprised. "You didn't? But, then..."
"It wasn't me," he told her curtly, and walked off to the next horse.
Minako did not follow him. Instead, she looked at him thoughtfully for a moment, before another grin spread across her face.
"Well, it looks like you have a rival," Minako smirked. She twirled around and left the stables.
Heero glared at her departing figure. She was talking about foolish things. Heero was a royal knight in service of the King of Luminaea. He didn't have time for this nonsense. But then again, why was he so bothered by the fact that someone else had given flowers to the raven-haired princess? Why indeed?
* * * * *
Minako walked out of the stables, a grin still on her face. She was wondering who could have sent Rei those flowers. If it wasn't Heero, it must have been one of the other knights. She didn't get very far into her line of thought, before a shadow detached itself from the wall and stood in front of her.
Minako jumped back in surprise.
"Interesting conversation," the figure observed sarcastically. Minako blinked. She recognized the voice.
"D-Duo! What are you doing here?" Minako demanded. The young knight stepped out into the dim moonlight.
"After you left from dinner, I followed you. I wanted to come and apologize for my behavior last night," Duo explained, a hint of coldness in his voice. "But when I saw you go into the stables, I decided to wait outside for you. I couldn't help but overhear the conversation."
"What about it?" Minako asked. The young blond stared defiantly at the young knight.
"You seem perfectly happy encouraging Heero to fall in love, despite these circumstances. But you still can't accept me?"
Minako felt the strength of her conviction falter. She did realize that her words were less than fair to Duo. She looked away.
"I know Heero won't do anything to jeopardize the mission," Minako answered with as much confidence as she could muster.
"Have you so little faith in me?" Duo asked, his voice softening. His head dipped slightly. "Are you just like everyone else? I thought of all people, you would understand me."
Minako turned to look at Duo. She could see the deep sadness in his eyes. It was something she had never clearly seen beneath the cheerful mask that he always wore.
"I do understand, Duo," she consoled him, putting her hand on one of his arms. "But I can't let myself be caught up in love. Not with you. Not with anyone."
Duo's sad eyes looked deep into hers. He stepped closer to her. "Why is that?"
Minako forced herself to grin, hoping to hold back the bitterness that she felt.
"It's not something I want to talk about, Duo," she told him in a soft voice. "Please understand..."
Duo lifted his hands to her face, but he saw her shrink back slightly. The young knight dropped his hands back to his sides. He nodded slowly.
"I understand," he stated in a quiet voice. "You hide your sadness almost as well as I do."
Minako's grin tightened slightly, but it didn't disappear. She was feeling the loneliness sweep through her, but she wouldn't let it take control.
"I'll take that as a compliment," she said in a light tone that was clearly forced. "We still have to rescue Princess Usagi and Princess Hotaru. Let's go back to the inn and get the others. I'll race you back!"
Minako sprinted off towards the Crown Inn.
His old smile flickered across his face.
"Of course, your highness. A splendid idea," he murmured quietly to himself, before chasing after her.
* * * * *
A large caravan of men mounted on camels and horses wound their way over a large sand dune. The evening stars twinkled silently overhead. The large group headed steadily north, most of the men were uniformed Hadi home guard. At the head of the line was the Desert Prince and Lord General Zoisite.
"Lovely evening, isn't it!" Zoisite breathed with a slight smile curling up on his lips. There was a distinct lack of sincerity in the man's voice.
"Yes, it is," Quatre replied cautiously. He was still suspicious of the Lord General. The their conversation was laced with half-truths, misleading words, and even bald-faced lies.
Zoisite glanced over his shoulders at the score of men following them. "I understand that your father believes in pacifism. Most of these men do not appear to be trained warriors, but rather guards who have never seen a real battlefield."
Quatre studied Zoisite for a moment. In a measured voice, Quatre spoke, "I have not lived in my father's palace for a long time. I cannot properly speak as to these men's skills or experience in combat."
"But you are a trained warrior, are you not?" Zoisite asked, feigning innocence.
Quatre nodded.
Zoisite's smile widened slightly. "It's nice to know that there is at least a few trained warriors among your people. Otherwise, it would be too easy..."
"What are you talking about?" Quatre demanded.
Zoisite offered a mysterious smile. "I understand that you and your band of men are the real reason that the kingdom has not fallen. Those men behind us, have never fought in a battle. If they ever were to see a real battle, I'm sure they would be easily cut down."
"It is my sworn duty to make sure that never happens," Quatre told him.
"Your sworn duty? To whom?" Zoisite queried in a mocking voice. "Your father disapproves of your act. Is there a higher authority that you swear allegiance to?"
"It is my sworn duty to my father's people," Quatre replied in a grave voice. "I will do everything in my power to protect them."
"Will that be enough?" Zoisite smirked. His green eyes glittered with a maliciousness that Quatre had never seen before in another man.
Quatre began to feel anger boiling up within, but he quickly restrained himself. He was astute enough to know that Zoisite was taunting him. Quatre simply shrugged off Zoisite's comment and looked away.
"We will arrive at the site in the early morning," Zoisite remarked in a casual voice.
"Where are we headed, anyhow?" Quatre demanded in a suspicious voice. "You claim that this was a site where I had slaughtered innocents!"
Zoisite smirked. "Our destination is Saule al-Leusa."
* * * * *
Author's Notes: Sorry about taking so long to update, but work has been hectic for the past few weeks. I hope everyone enjoyed this chapter. Thanks!
Author's Responses/Comments to Reviews:
Sadie Joyce - Myst Lady - Thanks for your review! Poor Duo isn't any closer to kissing the object of his affection. As far as Makoto is concerned, I think she's definitely ready to punch Wufei at any moment. I'm glad you got over your writer's block and published another historical romance. It's really good!
Liquid Ice - I'm glad you like this, and I'm glad you made an exception for me! Thank you for all your wonderful compliments, but I don't think I really deserve them. I tried to keep the suspense up in this chapter, and I hoped you liked it!
Kaiya - You are so correct! Zoisite's powers and devious mind can't be good for the heroes, but it helps the plot. In fact, I'm having way to much fun writing any scenes that involve Zoisite. And you're right about the whole Trowa thing, he definitely falls into the category of "not being who he seems to be".
Princess Ren - Thanks for your review, and it's good to hear that you like the story. I guess I gave a partial answer to your question about the Casablancas. A complete answer will eventually be provided in the upcoming chapter or so.
Shi no Tenshi/Megami - Glad you like this story! By the way, cool name!
thescientist - I'm happy to hear you liked the last chapter, and hopefully this one too! You are correct about Trowa releasing the shadow into Rubeus (it was the only way he could get rid of it). I really do try to keep Rei with her manga character, because I like it much more than the anime character (I like both, but her manga character has greater depth and is quite intriguing). You're absolutely right about the generals, they are fun to use, and I had to incorporate at least one more in this chapter.