Disclaimer: If I said I owned Gundam Wing, then I would be zapped to itty-
bitty carbony bits by lightning. (looks around for a storm, sees several) I
am NOT going to risk it, I don't own it, all that I own are my ideas, don't
sue me. Also, this is yaoi (malexmale), so you have been warned. If you
don't like that stuff, DON'T READ IT. Flames shall not be tolerated. Please
R&R =^.^=
Notes: This is based a French fairytale "The White Cat" written in 1682 by Madame la Comtesse d'Aulnoy. The beginning chapters go pretty much as the Madame wrote, but I took several liberties into it, and I of course changed the characters. The chapters I have yet to finish go more and more into my own ideas. "The White Cat" is truly my favorite fairytale, if you can find it, read it.
Chapter 1: Quest for a Kingdom
Many years ago, in a time of dragons, kings, and incantations, there lived an aging king with a land so perfect that it was picturesque. King Howard loved his kingdom, and loved seeing it grow and prosper under his rule. He had three sons; the eldest Treize, the middle child Heero, and the youngest son, Trowa.
The King loved his sons dearly, but he also loved to rule. When he was getting up in years, the people speculated to which prince would receive the kingdom. This worried King Howard, and being the clever man he was, he devised a way to keep his throne for at least a few years. After he finished his careful planning, he called his sons before him.
"As you know," he began, pacing back and forth in front of them, "I am not a young man anymore, and I do desire to retire some day soon. Perhaps I shall live in our cabin in the north woods."
"That sounds wonderful, father." Treize replied, his brothers both nodding their heads.
"Although," King Howard paused, "I would greatly love a small, faithful dog to give me company and keep me safe."
"I will get this for you father!"
"I shall retrieve this for you!"
"No, I shall get you this dog, father!" each of the sons replied earnestly, and thus, King Howard's plan could fall into action.
"That is it then!" exclaimed King Howard, "Whoever brings me the smallest, most faithful dog in one year's time shall have my throne!" The brothers, so eager about the challenge, agreed to then idea with no question, not realizing that they were being cheated of a year of rule. They agreed to set out that day, and meet with their father a year later.
Treize and Heero headed of to the opposite polls, but Trowa struck east with his group pf servants and knights. In every town he went, he would find many dogs. An even smaller, better-tempered dog would soon replace each one that he bought. Trowa began to fear that a year might not be long enough.
It had been a month of searching when Trowa and his party delved into a deep section of unknown woods. A sudden, violent tempest arose above the treetops and opened its fury upon the caravan. The storm was so severe that the party was separated, and Trowa was lost, all alone in the dark thickets. He knew he had to find shelter before the brittle branches came crashing down upon him. Trowa jogged down artificially carved paths, until he noticed them becoming cleaner and wider. Ahead on the path, a warm, red light was shining through the trees. When Trowa finally basked in the full glow of this light, he was facing a hidden castle wall, old, ornate and beautiful.
Trowa stood before the red oak doors for a moment, marveling at its lovely dove-gray walls that seemed to patch so well into the forest. Off to the side of the door, a small fox paw hung from a silver chain. Trowa pulled on this, and at once he heard a series of bells ringing. The doors swung open, and a breath of warm, comfortable air washed over him. The hallway beyond was lit with green torches, being held by white hands. He was slightly bewildered by this, but when looking back into the night, the hallways seemed much more comforting. After he entered, the doors closed snugly behind him, and Trowa continued down the hall in his soaked clothes.
At the end of the hallway, it broke in two directions, and a pair if small, white and gray mechas pushed him to the right. A slight cry of protest escaped him, but he soon found himself in a lovely room with a bath drawn for him. The little mechas undressed him, bathed him, and then dressed him again in a suit of green and gold with all sorts of gems sewn in. Trowa began to feel one hundred times better, and was starting to forget his troubles with the throne. The little mechas once again guided him back past that first hallway and sat him down at a dining table.
Trowa looked around at the tremendous finery in the room. Walls of gray granite and white marble, red tapestries hanging from the ceilings, sculptures in silver, and fine paintings all around. The table was set all in reds and silver, and Trowa would have found it hard to disappear in his green suit. Suddenly, two large black cats dressed all in black and walking on their hind legs entered the room and stood on either side of the doorway. Trowa sat a little awestruck and quite amused at these two characters. The two of them drew short sabers and held them high.
"His Majesty arrives!" one announced in a strong, human male voice. By that time, Trowa was aghast. A white tom, dressed in red, passed into the bright room followed a train of colorfully dressed cats, toms, and kittens. He leapt into a tall chair at the table directly across from Trowa, his blue eyes warm and friendly.
"Greetings, young prince," the White Tom said in a low and gentle voice, "I do hope you know that you are welcome in my Kingdom of Cats for as long as you please." Trowa thanked him humbly as soon as the words returned to his lips. The White Tom then ordered for dinner for himself, his guest, and his court. At once, the little white mechas carried in a banquet of mice and rats. Trowa worried for a moment, The White Tom laughed.
"Not to worry, my friend," he said as the white mechas placed a fine meal of Cornish hens in front of Trowa, "I can assure you that your meal has not mice or rats in it, it was even cooked in a different kitchen." Trowa smiled, and they engaged into conversation of travel and the countryside.
"Tell me, what is your name," Trowa asked after giving his, "and why has your kingdom and court become this way?"
"My name I may freely tell you," answered The White Tom, "it is Quatre, but the story of my kingdom is unimportant right now. Tell me Trowa, why are you questing, more so, what are you questing for?" Trowa wished to protest his dismissal, be he did not wish to insult his host.
"I am questing for my father's throne, as he fears parting with it," he told, "I must find the smallest, most loyal dog within a year's time to beat my brothers to the throne."
"That does not seem quite fair, Prince," Quatre replied.
"It is not, but it is my only option." Trowa sighed.
"Worry not, Prince Trowa," Quatre smiled, "We shall help you in this quest, but for now, relax and enjoy your time here as my guest." Trowa immediately felt at ease with his host. There was something very kind and gentle about Quatre that made him feel very at home. After a good night's rest, Quatre showed Trowa the grounds and was introduced to his fifty sisters, who were all the loveliest little cats.
"I am the youngest," Quatre explained later that evening during dinner, "and the sole male heir to all you see."
"This is an impressive kingdom to be lord of," Trowa replied, "are you a lone ruler? I have yet to meet your queen."
"I-I do not have a wife," Quatre stammered, rather bashfully, "I have yet to meet a companion who shall truly love me."
"I am sure you will, dear friend." Trowa smiled as his meal was served. Quatre could not help himself but feel wonderful at the vote of confidence, let alone being called a dear friend. They then talked late into the night before realizing the time and saying their goodnights.
Time was lost to Trowa in the next few months as Quatre always had some activity planned for him. Everyday was something new, and on the lazy weekends, they spent their time together relaxing, forming a tight bond between them. Before he knew it, the year was almost over, and the burden of the throne returned to Trowa.
"What am I to do, Quatre?" he paced about the room, "I mist be at my father's castle in three days, but with no dog, I shall never have a chance!"
"Do not fret," Quatre said to the rather ruffled prince, "I said I would help you in your quest, and I have." With that, Quatre pushed a large hen egg toward Trowa with his paw.
"What is it?" Trowa looked over the ordinary looking egg.
"Inside this shell," Quatre smiled, "you shall find the smallest, most faithful dog you could ever find." Indeed, when Trowa held the egg up to his ear, he heard the distinct bark of a small dog.
"I don't understand this." He said, surprised.
"Do not open the shell until you reach your kingdom," Quatre told him as he led Trowa into a courtyard by the font gate, "the little thing may catch cold."
"I thank you for this kind gift," Trowa sighed, "but how am I going to make it back in three days time?" Some of the servants were tending to a wooden statue of a horse, when it suddenly sprang to life, shaking the lichens from its body while approaching Trowa and Quatre.
"This horse shall get you home with plenty of time to spare." Quatre smiled. Trowa knelt next to Quatre and smiled back.
"Thank you so much," he said, "I owe you so very much now, and I promise I shall replay my debt to you."
"Payment to me shall be your gaining a kingdom." Quatre's eyes sparkled as he watched Trowa mount the wooden steed and ride off with a wave. For a moment, his heart sank as he re-entered his lonely castle. He wondered if he would ever see him again; however, he tried to stay optimistic that he would see the young prince again.
Trowa's trip was indeed very swift. He arrived at his father's castle within the three days allotted. His lost troop of servants and knights, whom he lost in the woods, had made it back and greeted him, overjoyed with relief at his safe return. He met his brothers inside and greeted them warmly. For a moment, he worried about his chances when he say the little dogs they each had, but after drawing the egg from his pocket, he felt better.
"Where is your dog?" Treize asked.
"He probably did not have time to find one," Heero mused quietly, "being lost in the woods, after all."
"I have my dog," Trowa retorted, "and with best luck, I shall win." With that, King Howard arrived and took his throne.
"I am so glad to see you all so well," he smiled, "do you have your bids for me?" Howard was still loath to let go of his kingdom, and he was ready to implement the second part of his plan.
Heero and Treize showed their dogs to their father. The dog Treize obtained was rather superior to the one Heero had found. They watched each other, and then looked at Trowa. Howard spoke to Trowa, his eyes glinting.
"These dogs are lovely, but they do not quite please me," he said to the chagrin of Heero and Treize, "do you have a dog to show me?" Trowa nodded and pulled the egg from his pocket, and then he split it open gently in his hands. At that moment, the smallest dog Trowa had ever seen leapt from the shell and sat obediently in his hands. He had a very small bark, and he wore a handsome gold collar with a small gold chain linking him to the shell. Heero, Treize, and Howard gasped at almost the same time.
"I cannot believe you've won!" Heero came over and inspected the little dog. Treize also looked it over, lost for words. Howard was more than worried, and he wracked his brain, trying to figure out how to get away from this situation. He did not want to give up his throne yet! Finally, he stepped forward and took the little dog with care from Trowa.
"Now that I have this fine animal," he started, "I may live in my cabin for the rest of my days. However..."
"However what, father?" Trowa inquired nervously.
"I am nervous to be alone in the woods, although this little dog would surely alert me to any danger," he paced while the little dog danced and yipped in his hands, "I worry that, as I grow older as all men do, I will not be able to wield my heavy sword anymore, and I could easily be killed!" Trowa looked at the floor, starting to feel like he would soon be cheated.
"We cannot let this happen, father!" Heero stated sternly.
"Tell us your desire of defense, father." Treize added in, not ready to give up the kingdom to his little brother.
"I can tell you what I'll need!" the King jumped, "I need a sword light enough for an old man to wield, but just as sharp and deadly as my broadsword!"
"Excellent! We shall retrieve this for you!" Treize answered excitedly.
"Then go!" King Howard exclaimed, "Come back in a year, and whichever of you fulfils my request shall receive my kingdom!" Treize and Heero left at that instant with renewed hope in their gait. Trowa looked at the floor blankly for a moment, contemplating his fate. He then turned and brushed past his knights and servants to the courtyard, mounted the wooden steed, and sped back to Quatre's kingdom.
Notes: This is based a French fairytale "The White Cat" written in 1682 by Madame la Comtesse d'Aulnoy. The beginning chapters go pretty much as the Madame wrote, but I took several liberties into it, and I of course changed the characters. The chapters I have yet to finish go more and more into my own ideas. "The White Cat" is truly my favorite fairytale, if you can find it, read it.
Chapter 1: Quest for a Kingdom
Many years ago, in a time of dragons, kings, and incantations, there lived an aging king with a land so perfect that it was picturesque. King Howard loved his kingdom, and loved seeing it grow and prosper under his rule. He had three sons; the eldest Treize, the middle child Heero, and the youngest son, Trowa.
The King loved his sons dearly, but he also loved to rule. When he was getting up in years, the people speculated to which prince would receive the kingdom. This worried King Howard, and being the clever man he was, he devised a way to keep his throne for at least a few years. After he finished his careful planning, he called his sons before him.
"As you know," he began, pacing back and forth in front of them, "I am not a young man anymore, and I do desire to retire some day soon. Perhaps I shall live in our cabin in the north woods."
"That sounds wonderful, father." Treize replied, his brothers both nodding their heads.
"Although," King Howard paused, "I would greatly love a small, faithful dog to give me company and keep me safe."
"I will get this for you father!"
"I shall retrieve this for you!"
"No, I shall get you this dog, father!" each of the sons replied earnestly, and thus, King Howard's plan could fall into action.
"That is it then!" exclaimed King Howard, "Whoever brings me the smallest, most faithful dog in one year's time shall have my throne!" The brothers, so eager about the challenge, agreed to then idea with no question, not realizing that they were being cheated of a year of rule. They agreed to set out that day, and meet with their father a year later.
Treize and Heero headed of to the opposite polls, but Trowa struck east with his group pf servants and knights. In every town he went, he would find many dogs. An even smaller, better-tempered dog would soon replace each one that he bought. Trowa began to fear that a year might not be long enough.
It had been a month of searching when Trowa and his party delved into a deep section of unknown woods. A sudden, violent tempest arose above the treetops and opened its fury upon the caravan. The storm was so severe that the party was separated, and Trowa was lost, all alone in the dark thickets. He knew he had to find shelter before the brittle branches came crashing down upon him. Trowa jogged down artificially carved paths, until he noticed them becoming cleaner and wider. Ahead on the path, a warm, red light was shining through the trees. When Trowa finally basked in the full glow of this light, he was facing a hidden castle wall, old, ornate and beautiful.
Trowa stood before the red oak doors for a moment, marveling at its lovely dove-gray walls that seemed to patch so well into the forest. Off to the side of the door, a small fox paw hung from a silver chain. Trowa pulled on this, and at once he heard a series of bells ringing. The doors swung open, and a breath of warm, comfortable air washed over him. The hallway beyond was lit with green torches, being held by white hands. He was slightly bewildered by this, but when looking back into the night, the hallways seemed much more comforting. After he entered, the doors closed snugly behind him, and Trowa continued down the hall in his soaked clothes.
At the end of the hallway, it broke in two directions, and a pair if small, white and gray mechas pushed him to the right. A slight cry of protest escaped him, but he soon found himself in a lovely room with a bath drawn for him. The little mechas undressed him, bathed him, and then dressed him again in a suit of green and gold with all sorts of gems sewn in. Trowa began to feel one hundred times better, and was starting to forget his troubles with the throne. The little mechas once again guided him back past that first hallway and sat him down at a dining table.
Trowa looked around at the tremendous finery in the room. Walls of gray granite and white marble, red tapestries hanging from the ceilings, sculptures in silver, and fine paintings all around. The table was set all in reds and silver, and Trowa would have found it hard to disappear in his green suit. Suddenly, two large black cats dressed all in black and walking on their hind legs entered the room and stood on either side of the doorway. Trowa sat a little awestruck and quite amused at these two characters. The two of them drew short sabers and held them high.
"His Majesty arrives!" one announced in a strong, human male voice. By that time, Trowa was aghast. A white tom, dressed in red, passed into the bright room followed a train of colorfully dressed cats, toms, and kittens. He leapt into a tall chair at the table directly across from Trowa, his blue eyes warm and friendly.
"Greetings, young prince," the White Tom said in a low and gentle voice, "I do hope you know that you are welcome in my Kingdom of Cats for as long as you please." Trowa thanked him humbly as soon as the words returned to his lips. The White Tom then ordered for dinner for himself, his guest, and his court. At once, the little white mechas carried in a banquet of mice and rats. Trowa worried for a moment, The White Tom laughed.
"Not to worry, my friend," he said as the white mechas placed a fine meal of Cornish hens in front of Trowa, "I can assure you that your meal has not mice or rats in it, it was even cooked in a different kitchen." Trowa smiled, and they engaged into conversation of travel and the countryside.
"Tell me, what is your name," Trowa asked after giving his, "and why has your kingdom and court become this way?"
"My name I may freely tell you," answered The White Tom, "it is Quatre, but the story of my kingdom is unimportant right now. Tell me Trowa, why are you questing, more so, what are you questing for?" Trowa wished to protest his dismissal, be he did not wish to insult his host.
"I am questing for my father's throne, as he fears parting with it," he told, "I must find the smallest, most loyal dog within a year's time to beat my brothers to the throne."
"That does not seem quite fair, Prince," Quatre replied.
"It is not, but it is my only option." Trowa sighed.
"Worry not, Prince Trowa," Quatre smiled, "We shall help you in this quest, but for now, relax and enjoy your time here as my guest." Trowa immediately felt at ease with his host. There was something very kind and gentle about Quatre that made him feel very at home. After a good night's rest, Quatre showed Trowa the grounds and was introduced to his fifty sisters, who were all the loveliest little cats.
"I am the youngest," Quatre explained later that evening during dinner, "and the sole male heir to all you see."
"This is an impressive kingdom to be lord of," Trowa replied, "are you a lone ruler? I have yet to meet your queen."
"I-I do not have a wife," Quatre stammered, rather bashfully, "I have yet to meet a companion who shall truly love me."
"I am sure you will, dear friend." Trowa smiled as his meal was served. Quatre could not help himself but feel wonderful at the vote of confidence, let alone being called a dear friend. They then talked late into the night before realizing the time and saying their goodnights.
Time was lost to Trowa in the next few months as Quatre always had some activity planned for him. Everyday was something new, and on the lazy weekends, they spent their time together relaxing, forming a tight bond between them. Before he knew it, the year was almost over, and the burden of the throne returned to Trowa.
"What am I to do, Quatre?" he paced about the room, "I mist be at my father's castle in three days, but with no dog, I shall never have a chance!"
"Do not fret," Quatre said to the rather ruffled prince, "I said I would help you in your quest, and I have." With that, Quatre pushed a large hen egg toward Trowa with his paw.
"What is it?" Trowa looked over the ordinary looking egg.
"Inside this shell," Quatre smiled, "you shall find the smallest, most faithful dog you could ever find." Indeed, when Trowa held the egg up to his ear, he heard the distinct bark of a small dog.
"I don't understand this." He said, surprised.
"Do not open the shell until you reach your kingdom," Quatre told him as he led Trowa into a courtyard by the font gate, "the little thing may catch cold."
"I thank you for this kind gift," Trowa sighed, "but how am I going to make it back in three days time?" Some of the servants were tending to a wooden statue of a horse, when it suddenly sprang to life, shaking the lichens from its body while approaching Trowa and Quatre.
"This horse shall get you home with plenty of time to spare." Quatre smiled. Trowa knelt next to Quatre and smiled back.
"Thank you so much," he said, "I owe you so very much now, and I promise I shall replay my debt to you."
"Payment to me shall be your gaining a kingdom." Quatre's eyes sparkled as he watched Trowa mount the wooden steed and ride off with a wave. For a moment, his heart sank as he re-entered his lonely castle. He wondered if he would ever see him again; however, he tried to stay optimistic that he would see the young prince again.
Trowa's trip was indeed very swift. He arrived at his father's castle within the three days allotted. His lost troop of servants and knights, whom he lost in the woods, had made it back and greeted him, overjoyed with relief at his safe return. He met his brothers inside and greeted them warmly. For a moment, he worried about his chances when he say the little dogs they each had, but after drawing the egg from his pocket, he felt better.
"Where is your dog?" Treize asked.
"He probably did not have time to find one," Heero mused quietly, "being lost in the woods, after all."
"I have my dog," Trowa retorted, "and with best luck, I shall win." With that, King Howard arrived and took his throne.
"I am so glad to see you all so well," he smiled, "do you have your bids for me?" Howard was still loath to let go of his kingdom, and he was ready to implement the second part of his plan.
Heero and Treize showed their dogs to their father. The dog Treize obtained was rather superior to the one Heero had found. They watched each other, and then looked at Trowa. Howard spoke to Trowa, his eyes glinting.
"These dogs are lovely, but they do not quite please me," he said to the chagrin of Heero and Treize, "do you have a dog to show me?" Trowa nodded and pulled the egg from his pocket, and then he split it open gently in his hands. At that moment, the smallest dog Trowa had ever seen leapt from the shell and sat obediently in his hands. He had a very small bark, and he wore a handsome gold collar with a small gold chain linking him to the shell. Heero, Treize, and Howard gasped at almost the same time.
"I cannot believe you've won!" Heero came over and inspected the little dog. Treize also looked it over, lost for words. Howard was more than worried, and he wracked his brain, trying to figure out how to get away from this situation. He did not want to give up his throne yet! Finally, he stepped forward and took the little dog with care from Trowa.
"Now that I have this fine animal," he started, "I may live in my cabin for the rest of my days. However..."
"However what, father?" Trowa inquired nervously.
"I am nervous to be alone in the woods, although this little dog would surely alert me to any danger," he paced while the little dog danced and yipped in his hands, "I worry that, as I grow older as all men do, I will not be able to wield my heavy sword anymore, and I could easily be killed!" Trowa looked at the floor, starting to feel like he would soon be cheated.
"We cannot let this happen, father!" Heero stated sternly.
"Tell us your desire of defense, father." Treize added in, not ready to give up the kingdom to his little brother.
"I can tell you what I'll need!" the King jumped, "I need a sword light enough for an old man to wield, but just as sharp and deadly as my broadsword!"
"Excellent! We shall retrieve this for you!" Treize answered excitedly.
"Then go!" King Howard exclaimed, "Come back in a year, and whichever of you fulfils my request shall receive my kingdom!" Treize and Heero left at that instant with renewed hope in their gait. Trowa looked at the floor blankly for a moment, contemplating his fate. He then turned and brushed past his knights and servants to the courtyard, mounted the wooden steed, and sped back to Quatre's kingdom.