Disclaimer: I do not own either Lord of the Rings or Gundam Wing.
Warnings: Yaoi (1x2) and bits of mushy stuff.
Chapter 15
The valley stood at their feet like a vast green blanket. The wind played with the grass like a passionate child. It was the most normal sight on Earth, but for those who had fought the battle, it was a little creepy. Only a few hours before, it had been the field of a cruel battle between men and beasts but now, it was as if nothing had happened. The Moles had taken everything with them and not even a mount of soil showed they had passed.
Duo walked up before the small group pouring out of the caves and sighed. It was as if days had passed since they had entered the cave. In reality, barely two months have come by since he first appeared on Middle Earth. (1)
Heero came beside him, accompanied by Wufei and they watched the sunset cast its orange rays on the darkening grass. No one knows what they thought at that time, but silence was their best companion. Now that the adrenaline rush was over, they all realized what they had done, the battle they had fought. Of course, they had all killed before, but not in that way, not for those reasons. It was something new and somewhat frightening, even for Gundam pilots. They had never been trained for this.
When the sun was about to disappear definitively, the three boys went down the dirt path to the valley and started a small fire. None of them having an appetite, they sat in silent, respecting each other's thoughts. They didn't felt like going back into stonewalls after their journey in the caves and a good night under the starts would be more than welcomed. Finally, it was Duo who broke the silence.
" What now? We've survived this far. Should we stick with Aragorn or try and find a way to go back to Earth?"
" We should search for a way back. This war does not concern us." Wufei proposed, pointing to the massive walls behind him.
" I know but we've been in this one, why not the others?" Duo protested, thinking more of the man he had met in his dream and how he wanted to know a little more.
" It was by luck that we came here with the battle and it will be our last. We aren't experts in this kind of fights. We could very well die." Heero pointed out coldly, fishing out a blanket out of his bag to fight the cold.
" I guess you're right but I'm still reluctant to leave them." the braided boy said, sitting beside Heero and grabbing half of the blanket to cover himself. The Perfect Soldier cast him a look but didn't protest.
" Leave it Maxwell, they've seen worse. Aragorn told me. Anyways, everyone does not like us. I couldn't help but notice the black glances we received. Our help wasn't fully appreciated." Wufei said coldly, staring at the fire with rapt interest.
" I noticed too Wu-man. So, where do we start?" Duo asked, using the nickname to ease the tension that was forming.
Wufei obviously ignored it and continued, " Fangorn forest is the nearest. I think we could go there and ask Treebeard himself."
" Who's Treebeard?" Duo demanded, echoing Heero's thoughts.
" An ally I met on my arrival. You'll see." the Chinese boy answered, also pulling a blanket close about himself.
Silently, the three pilots unconsciously agreed on going to sleep. Duo reluctantly got a wool blanket for himself but still stayed close to where Heero laid down.
Just when they fell asleep, a gentle snow started to fall.
**********
Duo woke up to find something nudging him playfully. He forced his eyes open and was met by a big black nose he immediately recognized as Shinigami's. He would have jumped to his feet if he hadn't felt something warm wrapped around him. His mind still fuzzy from sleep, he turned around and his eyes grew wide open. Heero's face was an inch close to his and one of his muscular arms was protectively holding him close. Finally calming down, Duo marveled at how they had ended up like this and savored the feeling. The warmth was welcomed as it proved to be a chilly morning and it was the first time Duo saw such a peaceful and childish look on Heero's face. One of his messy bangs moved up and down with each of his breath and the braided boy pulled it back with a smile.
The American boy nearly jumped out of his skin when he felt another nudge against his back. He had nearly forgotten Shinigami! Untangling himself from Heero, he got up and shuddered from the cold. The Japanese boy apparently felt it too as he pulled the blanket closer to himself in an attempt to compensate for the lost warmth. Duo smiled. He looked so peaceful!
Turning to Shinigami, he took the horse's head in his hand and steered him away from the camp until they were out of earshot. Then, he hugged the animal across the neck and grinned widely.
" Hey buddy! Where have you been? I was worried about you!" he whispered playfully, searching in the pack he had brought for something to brush the horse.
Shinigami snorted in reply and gently pushed the boy in the ribs. Duo laughed and lightly slapped the animal's flank, making him swish his tail at the boy. After another couple of playful moves, they settled and Duo started brushing and pampering his red-manned horse.
Sleep having finally disappeared, Duo noticed the thin layer of snow on the ground. He exclaimed in surprise and took a fistful of it to clean Shinigami. The horse stood calmly, appreciating the attention. When he was finished, the braided boy couldn't help but yawn. The sun had barely appeared and Duo was getting sleepy again. Motioning to Shinigami, he went back to the camp and laid back down beside Heero. This time, he respectfully kept his distance. That is, until an arm once again grabbed him from behind and pulled him close. Duo grinned and fell in his embrace, falling asleep for the second time with a wide smile.
**********
This time, when Duo woke up, he found himself alone. Looking for Heero, he found him a little farther off with Wufei and two horses. One he recognized as Heero's, Wing, but the other he guessed to be Wufei's he didn't know of. Stretching to his fullest, he got up and joined the two other pilots. Shinigami didn't take much time to appear.
" Good morning guys. Had a nice sleep?" Duo asked, brushing his black mount once more. The sun wasn't far but just enough to warm them with its pale rays.
The braided boy failed to notice the small red tint that appeared on Heero's cheeks but if he did, he would have thought it to be because of the cold. When he received no answer, Duo continued.
" What's your horse's name Wu-man? It's beautiful." Duo said, admiring the beast and getting a jealous snort from Shinigami.
" Shadowfax. He's the one who found your horses in the plain and brought them back." the Chinese boy replied.
" How can you be sure?" the braided boy asked suspiciously and raised an eyebrow.
Wufei contented himself of a shrug and silenced. He was not a morning person.
" Duo." Heero started but quickly changed subject. " We are leaving in a hour. Wufei as already prepared the food bags. You take whatever you want to bring."
The American boy caught the quick and subtle tone change in the Perfect Soldier's voice but let it pass. He guessed it was about the night, as the Japanese boy undoubtedly found out when he woke up, but Duo was wise enough not to mention anything.
" That's fine with me. We can leave now. All my things are already packed." Duo said, throwing a blanket on Shinigami's back.
Heero only nodded and started to buckle Wing.
***********
Aselsir was walking at a quick pace, looking around in search of something. He decided to go up the stonewalls of Helm's Deep and continued his search until he met Lezthea. The red-haired man barely caught his breath before questioning him.
" Did you see one of the three boys? I can't find them anywhere!" he asked frantically, panting a little.
" Yep." Lezthea simply said.
" Really? Where?" Aseldir demanded, relief illuminating his features.
The blond man shrugged and pointed to something far off the valley. Aseldir's face immediately fell.
" Saw them packing early this morning and leave. Won't see them anytime soon again. Better that way anyway." he said coldly, not stopping the grimace from covering his face.
" Great. That means I'll have to go after them. Actually," Aseldir continued, seeing the surprised look on Lezthea's face, " Aragorn saw them too and told me to follow them, but I wanted to make sure they were really gone before I left too. I do not like this."
" Neither do I. They're just traitors as far as I now. Good thing you're going to spy on them." Lezthea spat, visibly not liking the three boys.
" In fact, I have to bring them back. Aragorn trusts them, and for a good reason. They helped us win the battle. I also fear the enemy. He won't leave them alone." Aseldir countered, turning around to leave.
Lezthea shrugged and said nothing else. The red-haired soldier smiled knowingly and went down the wooden ladder to the stables.
**********
Lord Rear finally saw the gates of Mordor. For a normal person, it would have taken more than a day to arrive from Helm's Deep, but is mount was far from ordinary and he himself had some tricks of his own.
When he was near enough, a soldier shouted the order to open the gates. It was very impressive. The two massive rock doors slowly started to move inside with a cringing noise that even made the ground shake. Once it was opened enough for him to pass, Rear spurred his dragon-like horse forward and ran in the deadly country.
The people of the fortress hurried to greet the man. One took his mount's reigns while another removed Rear's heavy travel cloak. That done, the scurried away and let Ineluki's right hand enter. Rear walked with confidence towards the throne room.
It was a very big room, maybe the biggest of the whole castle. Two beautiful oak doors were half open. Not waiting to be announced nor invited, he walked in. As usual, it was dark and poorly lit. Lord Ineluki was sitting lazily on his throne.
" Rear? Is that you my friend?" Ineluki asked, his voice betraying his exhaustion.
" Yes my Lord. I bring back the news from Helm's Deep." Rear answered, bowing to his knees.
" Please, drop the formalities. Come nearer, I won't bite." The Sea Lord encouraged.
Rear complied and moved beside Ineluki's throne. The King was playing with his crown, making it twirl with his fingers absent-mindedly. For him to be so carefree, there was only was answer.
" Have you been to the Mirror of Sauron?" Rear asked, bits of worry cracking his professional mask.
" Yes. I saw Helm's Deep defeat." The King said, his voice a little bit sharper.
" Pardon me, my Lord. I failed you." The general said, dropping to one knee.
" Cut that out. I had planned that we would fail ever since I felt the three boy's auras in there." Ineluki lashed out, waving for the other man to stand up.
" Thank you my Lord." Rear answered humbly.
" Oh for God's sake Rear! Drop it!" Ineluki stood up in anger. Beside Rear, he looked small and vulnerable. " You don't have to call me like that! I don't want you to call me that!" he shouted furiously, throwing his crown on the ground. When he saw the sheepish look on Rear's face, he softened. " I'm sorry, but you know me better than anyone else."
Rear nodded and took the crown off the ground to give it back to Ineluki. " Of course, Tallien."
A bright smile illuminated Ineluki's features, making him look even younger and more innocent. He took the crown from Rear's hands and placed it back on his head.
" Thank you, Rear. You know I need you here as a friend, not as a servant." Ineluki thanked gratefully, sitting back on his throne and resting his head on his hand. He suddenly looked very tired and wise, yet thoughtful all the same. " Do you know who I met when I visited my Lady?"
Rear shrugged; worry once again burning in his eyes.
" A very interesting young boy."
*********
The three pilots had been trotting for almost the whole day now. Shadowfax was keeping the pace easily and the two other horses barely kept up, too proud to slow down. The sun was setting and it was quickly growing cold. Over their heads hung heavy storm clouds that menaced to spill any minute.
Duo lowered his head closer to Shinigami's neck as another gust of freezing wind blew. His braid flew behind him like an angry snake. Closing his shirt tighter around himself, he looked at Wufei who was doing the same in front.
" Hey Wu-man!" he shouted over the cry of the wind.
The Chinese boy turned around.
" Can't we find a place to rest yet? We can't continue in this storm!" he yelled in his cupped hands to make sure he understood.
" Duo's right." Heero added, forcing Wing to trot faster. The poor mare was tired beyond belief.
Wufei nodded and instructed something to Shadowfax. The silver horse suddenly accelerate to a full run, leading the other two to who knows where. They kept that speed for about fifteen minutes before they managed to discern a black shape in the distance. When they got closer, they could see that it was a steep hill that would offer a little shelter from the wind.
Once they were finally right against it, they got down their panting mounts and moved around the hill until they found an overhanging rock that offered the smallest protection from rain, or rather snow.
" You'd believe someone doesn't want us to go to Fangorn!" Duo exclaimed when they were under the safety of the rock. Heavy snow had started to fall.
" Stop saying stupid things and help us." Wufei warned him, taking two logs from the ones they had brought and starting a fire. Heero was arranging the covers so that they would sleep close to one another to keep each other warm.
" Calm down Wu-man. I'll cook something." Duo answered, laughing a bit. Even the ever-happy Duo was starting to cool off in the dreaded temperature.
Taking a bowl and filling it with snow, he let it melt beside the fire and got out of their food bag three large pieces of dried meats. Putting a few nuts beside the fire to have them roast, he sat back on his haunches and waited patiently for all to cook.
" It'll be nothing gastronomic guys." Duo joked, making tea with the now bowling water.
" Can't help it." Heero replied, sitting beside him and taking one of the dried pieces of meat.
" It's like living a legend. I never thought that one could live without technology." Wufei said between two mouthfuls of meat and tea.
" Sure is weird. I hope we find a way out really soon. I'm afraid for the Colonies." Duo agreed, letting a roasted nut warm his hand.
" Quatre and Trowa will take care of it." Heero countered icily, staring blankly at the fire.
" Alone? I'm afraid for them too. I miss them." The braided boy whispered his last sentence.
Silence reigned for a while. Only the roaring of the wind could be heard. The horses soon came back from their vain search for anything edible. At that moment, the three boys decided to sleep. They kept close to fight the cold, Heero between Duo and Wufei. Shinigami then chose to lie down beside the American, and so did Shadowfax beside Wufei. Finally, Wing rested at their feet. That way, everybody kept everybody else warm. Also, in those temperatures, there was no time for body shyness.
*********
Duo couldn't help but shiver. Even with the horses and Heero sleeping beside him, he was cold. He then remembered the red stone in his pocket. He grabbed it and savored the small heat it brought. But soon it was not enough.
//Might as well leave the cold definitively.// Duo thought as he forced himself to go to the 'dream world'.
**********
Everything was as usual. The trees were of their gray substance and twisted. Sun bathed the braided boy as he walked absent-mindedly. He sighed with joy. That was better. No cold. No snow. Nobody. He stopped in his tracks. It wasn't true, there was somebody else. He resumed his walk and searched for the change of scenery that meant he would meet that man.
Just when he felt he was getting closer, he heard the familiar voice of the woman.
" Hello man child. It has been awhile."
" Yeah I know. Say, do you know where is the other forest?" Duo asked, looking around and only half paying attention to the voice.
" Why do you want to go there?" she asked worriedly.
" I met someone there. I want to speak to him again." He answered, and then started as he saw the rim of the forest. " There it is!"
Before the woman could say anything, he had entered the man's territory. She couldn't contact him again.
Duo looked around and finally spotted the clearing in which he had first seen the man. Likewise, the man was resting beside the small river.
" Welcome back." He said, not even raising his head.
" Hi." Duo replied, coming to sit beside the man.
While they stayed silent, Duo detailed the man. He was tall and strong, but not so much that he still looked very young. His hair was of a striking white that came in sharp contrast with his dark green eyes. He wore plain pants and shirt and his feet were bare. Of course, Duo knew that in real life, he must not look like this. How? He had seen himself in many springs and he wasn't at all like in real life. He had been surprised at first, of course, but he kind of liked the change. His hair, to his relief, was still a long chestnut braid with the single exception of many streaks of different colors. He was slightly taller and more strongly built. But the most amazing thing was his eyes. Instead of being their usual violet, they were a blue so pale they were almost transparent.
" What brings you here?" the man suddenly asked, breaking the silence.
" It's cold outside. Wanted to be warm." Duo answered.
" I guess it is. How did you manage to get here?" the man asked afterwards.
" I dunno. I walked and walked until I found it." The braided boy said uncaringly with a shrug.
" You do know that not everyone is able to come here?" the man warned him, sitting up and resting his head on his hands.
" I guessed so. I just wondered who you were." Duo told him sincerely. In this place, nobody could really lie.
" I also wonder who you are." The man said with a small smile. " I am Tallien."
" If names have any meaning here, I'm Duo." The American let himself fall on his back and inhaled deeply. This place was perfect. If only he could be here as well.
" Well Duo, we shall meet again, but I have to leave. You must not forget that how beautiful this place is, you have duties in your physical self and they are too important to be left aside." Tallien warned him, staring at him straight in the eyes to make sure he was understood.
" Yeah, I know. I'll have to go soon too. I just want to rest some more." Duo answered and closed his eyes.
Tallien didn't say anything more. In a matter of seconds, he was gone.
***********
When Duo woke up, he immediately noticed that he was cold, but that something warm was close to him. Turning around, and not to his surprise, it was Heero's back. Smiling he leaned closer and it was his turn to encircle him with his arms. The Perfect Soldier grumbled and inched closer to the sudden warmth. //That's a nice habit we're forming.// was Duo's last thought before he fell asleep for good.
************
The next morning, the three boys found themselves under a small layer of snow. Their shelter hadn't fully protected them from the blizzard. With a lot of cursing, they got up, had a cold breakfast, packed their things and prepared to leave. Fortunately for them, the snow had stopped and the sky was a bright blue, even if another pack of menacing clouds was closing in from the North. They mounted and made their way slowly to Fangorn. The bad news was that, with all the snow, they couldn't go fast and would most likely be caught by that other storm before they reached the forest. They could only hope for the best to happen.
On the vast white plain, three small dots could be seen walking like wandering spirits.
************ The End
************
Finally this chapter is done! I just couldn't resist making Duo and Heero sleep in the arms of each other. It was too perfect of an occasion to be ignored! I discovered that I'm introducing a lot of characters lately. If any of you is confused with all the names, tell me and I'll make a briefing on them all before next chapter.
(1): I really don't know exactly how much time passed, but I estimate about two months. If any of you did the calculations, I would really appreciate it if you could tell me!
A-chan
Warnings: Yaoi (1x2) and bits of mushy stuff.
Chapter 15
The valley stood at their feet like a vast green blanket. The wind played with the grass like a passionate child. It was the most normal sight on Earth, but for those who had fought the battle, it was a little creepy. Only a few hours before, it had been the field of a cruel battle between men and beasts but now, it was as if nothing had happened. The Moles had taken everything with them and not even a mount of soil showed they had passed.
Duo walked up before the small group pouring out of the caves and sighed. It was as if days had passed since they had entered the cave. In reality, barely two months have come by since he first appeared on Middle Earth. (1)
Heero came beside him, accompanied by Wufei and they watched the sunset cast its orange rays on the darkening grass. No one knows what they thought at that time, but silence was their best companion. Now that the adrenaline rush was over, they all realized what they had done, the battle they had fought. Of course, they had all killed before, but not in that way, not for those reasons. It was something new and somewhat frightening, even for Gundam pilots. They had never been trained for this.
When the sun was about to disappear definitively, the three boys went down the dirt path to the valley and started a small fire. None of them having an appetite, they sat in silent, respecting each other's thoughts. They didn't felt like going back into stonewalls after their journey in the caves and a good night under the starts would be more than welcomed. Finally, it was Duo who broke the silence.
" What now? We've survived this far. Should we stick with Aragorn or try and find a way to go back to Earth?"
" We should search for a way back. This war does not concern us." Wufei proposed, pointing to the massive walls behind him.
" I know but we've been in this one, why not the others?" Duo protested, thinking more of the man he had met in his dream and how he wanted to know a little more.
" It was by luck that we came here with the battle and it will be our last. We aren't experts in this kind of fights. We could very well die." Heero pointed out coldly, fishing out a blanket out of his bag to fight the cold.
" I guess you're right but I'm still reluctant to leave them." the braided boy said, sitting beside Heero and grabbing half of the blanket to cover himself. The Perfect Soldier cast him a look but didn't protest.
" Leave it Maxwell, they've seen worse. Aragorn told me. Anyways, everyone does not like us. I couldn't help but notice the black glances we received. Our help wasn't fully appreciated." Wufei said coldly, staring at the fire with rapt interest.
" I noticed too Wu-man. So, where do we start?" Duo asked, using the nickname to ease the tension that was forming.
Wufei obviously ignored it and continued, " Fangorn forest is the nearest. I think we could go there and ask Treebeard himself."
" Who's Treebeard?" Duo demanded, echoing Heero's thoughts.
" An ally I met on my arrival. You'll see." the Chinese boy answered, also pulling a blanket close about himself.
Silently, the three pilots unconsciously agreed on going to sleep. Duo reluctantly got a wool blanket for himself but still stayed close to where Heero laid down.
Just when they fell asleep, a gentle snow started to fall.
**********
Duo woke up to find something nudging him playfully. He forced his eyes open and was met by a big black nose he immediately recognized as Shinigami's. He would have jumped to his feet if he hadn't felt something warm wrapped around him. His mind still fuzzy from sleep, he turned around and his eyes grew wide open. Heero's face was an inch close to his and one of his muscular arms was protectively holding him close. Finally calming down, Duo marveled at how they had ended up like this and savored the feeling. The warmth was welcomed as it proved to be a chilly morning and it was the first time Duo saw such a peaceful and childish look on Heero's face. One of his messy bangs moved up and down with each of his breath and the braided boy pulled it back with a smile.
The American boy nearly jumped out of his skin when he felt another nudge against his back. He had nearly forgotten Shinigami! Untangling himself from Heero, he got up and shuddered from the cold. The Japanese boy apparently felt it too as he pulled the blanket closer to himself in an attempt to compensate for the lost warmth. Duo smiled. He looked so peaceful!
Turning to Shinigami, he took the horse's head in his hand and steered him away from the camp until they were out of earshot. Then, he hugged the animal across the neck and grinned widely.
" Hey buddy! Where have you been? I was worried about you!" he whispered playfully, searching in the pack he had brought for something to brush the horse.
Shinigami snorted in reply and gently pushed the boy in the ribs. Duo laughed and lightly slapped the animal's flank, making him swish his tail at the boy. After another couple of playful moves, they settled and Duo started brushing and pampering his red-manned horse.
Sleep having finally disappeared, Duo noticed the thin layer of snow on the ground. He exclaimed in surprise and took a fistful of it to clean Shinigami. The horse stood calmly, appreciating the attention. When he was finished, the braided boy couldn't help but yawn. The sun had barely appeared and Duo was getting sleepy again. Motioning to Shinigami, he went back to the camp and laid back down beside Heero. This time, he respectfully kept his distance. That is, until an arm once again grabbed him from behind and pulled him close. Duo grinned and fell in his embrace, falling asleep for the second time with a wide smile.
**********
This time, when Duo woke up, he found himself alone. Looking for Heero, he found him a little farther off with Wufei and two horses. One he recognized as Heero's, Wing, but the other he guessed to be Wufei's he didn't know of. Stretching to his fullest, he got up and joined the two other pilots. Shinigami didn't take much time to appear.
" Good morning guys. Had a nice sleep?" Duo asked, brushing his black mount once more. The sun wasn't far but just enough to warm them with its pale rays.
The braided boy failed to notice the small red tint that appeared on Heero's cheeks but if he did, he would have thought it to be because of the cold. When he received no answer, Duo continued.
" What's your horse's name Wu-man? It's beautiful." Duo said, admiring the beast and getting a jealous snort from Shinigami.
" Shadowfax. He's the one who found your horses in the plain and brought them back." the Chinese boy replied.
" How can you be sure?" the braided boy asked suspiciously and raised an eyebrow.
Wufei contented himself of a shrug and silenced. He was not a morning person.
" Duo." Heero started but quickly changed subject. " We are leaving in a hour. Wufei as already prepared the food bags. You take whatever you want to bring."
The American boy caught the quick and subtle tone change in the Perfect Soldier's voice but let it pass. He guessed it was about the night, as the Japanese boy undoubtedly found out when he woke up, but Duo was wise enough not to mention anything.
" That's fine with me. We can leave now. All my things are already packed." Duo said, throwing a blanket on Shinigami's back.
Heero only nodded and started to buckle Wing.
***********
Aselsir was walking at a quick pace, looking around in search of something. He decided to go up the stonewalls of Helm's Deep and continued his search until he met Lezthea. The red-haired man barely caught his breath before questioning him.
" Did you see one of the three boys? I can't find them anywhere!" he asked frantically, panting a little.
" Yep." Lezthea simply said.
" Really? Where?" Aseldir demanded, relief illuminating his features.
The blond man shrugged and pointed to something far off the valley. Aseldir's face immediately fell.
" Saw them packing early this morning and leave. Won't see them anytime soon again. Better that way anyway." he said coldly, not stopping the grimace from covering his face.
" Great. That means I'll have to go after them. Actually," Aseldir continued, seeing the surprised look on Lezthea's face, " Aragorn saw them too and told me to follow them, but I wanted to make sure they were really gone before I left too. I do not like this."
" Neither do I. They're just traitors as far as I now. Good thing you're going to spy on them." Lezthea spat, visibly not liking the three boys.
" In fact, I have to bring them back. Aragorn trusts them, and for a good reason. They helped us win the battle. I also fear the enemy. He won't leave them alone." Aseldir countered, turning around to leave.
Lezthea shrugged and said nothing else. The red-haired soldier smiled knowingly and went down the wooden ladder to the stables.
**********
Lord Rear finally saw the gates of Mordor. For a normal person, it would have taken more than a day to arrive from Helm's Deep, but is mount was far from ordinary and he himself had some tricks of his own.
When he was near enough, a soldier shouted the order to open the gates. It was very impressive. The two massive rock doors slowly started to move inside with a cringing noise that even made the ground shake. Once it was opened enough for him to pass, Rear spurred his dragon-like horse forward and ran in the deadly country.
The people of the fortress hurried to greet the man. One took his mount's reigns while another removed Rear's heavy travel cloak. That done, the scurried away and let Ineluki's right hand enter. Rear walked with confidence towards the throne room.
It was a very big room, maybe the biggest of the whole castle. Two beautiful oak doors were half open. Not waiting to be announced nor invited, he walked in. As usual, it was dark and poorly lit. Lord Ineluki was sitting lazily on his throne.
" Rear? Is that you my friend?" Ineluki asked, his voice betraying his exhaustion.
" Yes my Lord. I bring back the news from Helm's Deep." Rear answered, bowing to his knees.
" Please, drop the formalities. Come nearer, I won't bite." The Sea Lord encouraged.
Rear complied and moved beside Ineluki's throne. The King was playing with his crown, making it twirl with his fingers absent-mindedly. For him to be so carefree, there was only was answer.
" Have you been to the Mirror of Sauron?" Rear asked, bits of worry cracking his professional mask.
" Yes. I saw Helm's Deep defeat." The King said, his voice a little bit sharper.
" Pardon me, my Lord. I failed you." The general said, dropping to one knee.
" Cut that out. I had planned that we would fail ever since I felt the three boy's auras in there." Ineluki lashed out, waving for the other man to stand up.
" Thank you my Lord." Rear answered humbly.
" Oh for God's sake Rear! Drop it!" Ineluki stood up in anger. Beside Rear, he looked small and vulnerable. " You don't have to call me like that! I don't want you to call me that!" he shouted furiously, throwing his crown on the ground. When he saw the sheepish look on Rear's face, he softened. " I'm sorry, but you know me better than anyone else."
Rear nodded and took the crown off the ground to give it back to Ineluki. " Of course, Tallien."
A bright smile illuminated Ineluki's features, making him look even younger and more innocent. He took the crown from Rear's hands and placed it back on his head.
" Thank you, Rear. You know I need you here as a friend, not as a servant." Ineluki thanked gratefully, sitting back on his throne and resting his head on his hand. He suddenly looked very tired and wise, yet thoughtful all the same. " Do you know who I met when I visited my Lady?"
Rear shrugged; worry once again burning in his eyes.
" A very interesting young boy."
*********
The three pilots had been trotting for almost the whole day now. Shadowfax was keeping the pace easily and the two other horses barely kept up, too proud to slow down. The sun was setting and it was quickly growing cold. Over their heads hung heavy storm clouds that menaced to spill any minute.
Duo lowered his head closer to Shinigami's neck as another gust of freezing wind blew. His braid flew behind him like an angry snake. Closing his shirt tighter around himself, he looked at Wufei who was doing the same in front.
" Hey Wu-man!" he shouted over the cry of the wind.
The Chinese boy turned around.
" Can't we find a place to rest yet? We can't continue in this storm!" he yelled in his cupped hands to make sure he understood.
" Duo's right." Heero added, forcing Wing to trot faster. The poor mare was tired beyond belief.
Wufei nodded and instructed something to Shadowfax. The silver horse suddenly accelerate to a full run, leading the other two to who knows where. They kept that speed for about fifteen minutes before they managed to discern a black shape in the distance. When they got closer, they could see that it was a steep hill that would offer a little shelter from the wind.
Once they were finally right against it, they got down their panting mounts and moved around the hill until they found an overhanging rock that offered the smallest protection from rain, or rather snow.
" You'd believe someone doesn't want us to go to Fangorn!" Duo exclaimed when they were under the safety of the rock. Heavy snow had started to fall.
" Stop saying stupid things and help us." Wufei warned him, taking two logs from the ones they had brought and starting a fire. Heero was arranging the covers so that they would sleep close to one another to keep each other warm.
" Calm down Wu-man. I'll cook something." Duo answered, laughing a bit. Even the ever-happy Duo was starting to cool off in the dreaded temperature.
Taking a bowl and filling it with snow, he let it melt beside the fire and got out of their food bag three large pieces of dried meats. Putting a few nuts beside the fire to have them roast, he sat back on his haunches and waited patiently for all to cook.
" It'll be nothing gastronomic guys." Duo joked, making tea with the now bowling water.
" Can't help it." Heero replied, sitting beside him and taking one of the dried pieces of meat.
" It's like living a legend. I never thought that one could live without technology." Wufei said between two mouthfuls of meat and tea.
" Sure is weird. I hope we find a way out really soon. I'm afraid for the Colonies." Duo agreed, letting a roasted nut warm his hand.
" Quatre and Trowa will take care of it." Heero countered icily, staring blankly at the fire.
" Alone? I'm afraid for them too. I miss them." The braided boy whispered his last sentence.
Silence reigned for a while. Only the roaring of the wind could be heard. The horses soon came back from their vain search for anything edible. At that moment, the three boys decided to sleep. They kept close to fight the cold, Heero between Duo and Wufei. Shinigami then chose to lie down beside the American, and so did Shadowfax beside Wufei. Finally, Wing rested at their feet. That way, everybody kept everybody else warm. Also, in those temperatures, there was no time for body shyness.
*********
Duo couldn't help but shiver. Even with the horses and Heero sleeping beside him, he was cold. He then remembered the red stone in his pocket. He grabbed it and savored the small heat it brought. But soon it was not enough.
//Might as well leave the cold definitively.// Duo thought as he forced himself to go to the 'dream world'.
**********
Everything was as usual. The trees were of their gray substance and twisted. Sun bathed the braided boy as he walked absent-mindedly. He sighed with joy. That was better. No cold. No snow. Nobody. He stopped in his tracks. It wasn't true, there was somebody else. He resumed his walk and searched for the change of scenery that meant he would meet that man.
Just when he felt he was getting closer, he heard the familiar voice of the woman.
" Hello man child. It has been awhile."
" Yeah I know. Say, do you know where is the other forest?" Duo asked, looking around and only half paying attention to the voice.
" Why do you want to go there?" she asked worriedly.
" I met someone there. I want to speak to him again." He answered, and then started as he saw the rim of the forest. " There it is!"
Before the woman could say anything, he had entered the man's territory. She couldn't contact him again.
Duo looked around and finally spotted the clearing in which he had first seen the man. Likewise, the man was resting beside the small river.
" Welcome back." He said, not even raising his head.
" Hi." Duo replied, coming to sit beside the man.
While they stayed silent, Duo detailed the man. He was tall and strong, but not so much that he still looked very young. His hair was of a striking white that came in sharp contrast with his dark green eyes. He wore plain pants and shirt and his feet were bare. Of course, Duo knew that in real life, he must not look like this. How? He had seen himself in many springs and he wasn't at all like in real life. He had been surprised at first, of course, but he kind of liked the change. His hair, to his relief, was still a long chestnut braid with the single exception of many streaks of different colors. He was slightly taller and more strongly built. But the most amazing thing was his eyes. Instead of being their usual violet, they were a blue so pale they were almost transparent.
" What brings you here?" the man suddenly asked, breaking the silence.
" It's cold outside. Wanted to be warm." Duo answered.
" I guess it is. How did you manage to get here?" the man asked afterwards.
" I dunno. I walked and walked until I found it." The braided boy said uncaringly with a shrug.
" You do know that not everyone is able to come here?" the man warned him, sitting up and resting his head on his hands.
" I guessed so. I just wondered who you were." Duo told him sincerely. In this place, nobody could really lie.
" I also wonder who you are." The man said with a small smile. " I am Tallien."
" If names have any meaning here, I'm Duo." The American let himself fall on his back and inhaled deeply. This place was perfect. If only he could be here as well.
" Well Duo, we shall meet again, but I have to leave. You must not forget that how beautiful this place is, you have duties in your physical self and they are too important to be left aside." Tallien warned him, staring at him straight in the eyes to make sure he was understood.
" Yeah, I know. I'll have to go soon too. I just want to rest some more." Duo answered and closed his eyes.
Tallien didn't say anything more. In a matter of seconds, he was gone.
***********
When Duo woke up, he immediately noticed that he was cold, but that something warm was close to him. Turning around, and not to his surprise, it was Heero's back. Smiling he leaned closer and it was his turn to encircle him with his arms. The Perfect Soldier grumbled and inched closer to the sudden warmth. //That's a nice habit we're forming.// was Duo's last thought before he fell asleep for good.
************
The next morning, the three boys found themselves under a small layer of snow. Their shelter hadn't fully protected them from the blizzard. With a lot of cursing, they got up, had a cold breakfast, packed their things and prepared to leave. Fortunately for them, the snow had stopped and the sky was a bright blue, even if another pack of menacing clouds was closing in from the North. They mounted and made their way slowly to Fangorn. The bad news was that, with all the snow, they couldn't go fast and would most likely be caught by that other storm before they reached the forest. They could only hope for the best to happen.
On the vast white plain, three small dots could be seen walking like wandering spirits.
************ The End
************
Finally this chapter is done! I just couldn't resist making Duo and Heero sleep in the arms of each other. It was too perfect of an occasion to be ignored! I discovered that I'm introducing a lot of characters lately. If any of you is confused with all the names, tell me and I'll make a briefing on them all before next chapter.
(1): I really don't know exactly how much time passed, but I estimate about two months. If any of you did the calculations, I would really appreciate it if you could tell me!
A-chan