I just watched the movie The Two Towers recently and realized that there
are a lot of things different to what I write. I'm following the books, not
the movies, so it's normal. And it's been an awful while since I last read
them so some things may be really different but I'm trying to stay as
faithful as I can.
Warnings: Nothing really. This chapter is mainly an insight on what each character his thinking. Not everyone though, I don't want to torture you too much^^
Disclaimer: I don't own Gundam Wing or Lord of the Rings.
Chapter 19
Duo lazily nudged a bit of snow off his foot and stretched. The sun had almost disappeared, casting shy rays onto the glittering whiteness. After barely stiffening a yawn, he crossed his arm behind his head and let himself fall back on the snow. He was getting slightly tired due to the fact that he still wasn't perfectly healed. He and the two other pilots had decided to come and rest a bit outside in the coolness of the evening. It was still early winter and the temperature was still warm.
Huddled in his red wool coat, the braided boy turned on his side. Heero was leaning against a trunk, talking with Wufei about the news. Duo had since long abandoned trying to even be interested with the conversation. As much as he cared, Ineluki could cause only a little damage to Rohan. The people here were cold towards strangers, even more towards ex- outlaws. Even with all his hate against Faramir, he didn't want the entire city burnt to the ground. Still, he knew that they only had to make a stand in the mountains covering their back to win the fight, whatever Ineluki brought against the city of horses.
Shaking his head slightly, he chased the thoughts away from his head. He had long since decided that he wouldn't be involved in this war. Helm's Deep had been an exception because they had to find Wufei. Now, he didn't have any reason to fight in this oncoming battle and risk to loose his life.
A small breeze blew and managed to crawl under Duo's skin. Shuddering once or twice, the American boy brought his knees to his chin. Night was falling and the temperature with it. The sun was a bloody red, announcing a sunny tomorrow. Duo noted with pleasure at how the rays made Heero's hair shine. They were a mix of his usual chocolate brown but the sun made red and cinnamon reflects dance in his messy hair. His eyes were now one of the purest blues enhanced with a touch of gold. The exterior colour was his usual cobalt blue, but around the irises dark gold stripes crossed over the blue as if trying to mix together.
With a small sigh, Duo told himself for the hundredth time that Heero was truly gorgeous. He had surprised himself with that thought many times already, but here, in this scenery and clothed like he was in heavy wool clothes, it was a magnificent sight.
An itch appeared in his eyes and he rubbed them, deciding to close them for a while. He fell asleep almost instantly.
******
Heero and Wufei stopped talking and cast a quick glance to the sleeping pilot. His breathing was slow and regular and his face was peaceful. The Chinese boy reverted his gaze back to the shorthaired boy and snickered silently. Middle Earth really was a mysterious place. Even the Perfect Soldier couldn't hide his feelings for the braided boy. Wufei had noticed them a few times already and he was sure Trowa and Quatre also had. It seemed that only the two concerned sides were ignorant.
Shrugging slightly, he coughed discreetly to get the Japanese boy's attention back. Two cold blue eyes fixed themselves on him, any sign of an emotion gone.
" We shouldn't get involved in this battle. I doubt they'll let us, but just in case they ask, I will refuse." The Chinese boy declared. Heero nodded his agreement.
" They already refused our help for a defensive plan. I don't think Faramir will lower himself in asking ex-outlaws for some help." Heero replied, leaning heavily against the trunk. His side was starting to itch him and he was getting dizzy.
" I think they already understood that their only chance is to make a stand in the mountains. They don't have the walls to fight them off from the city." Wufei continued and noticed Heero's tiredness. " Anyways, we'll have to wait until they come up with a decision. I suggest we go to sleep. Go and wake him up, I'll go and find Zares."
Heero reluctantly watched Wufei leave and stood up. He didn't want to wake Duo up; he seemed so calm and peaceful. But he couldn't leave him in the snow like that; he'd freeze to death. Sighing deeply, he crouched beside the sleeping boy and shook him gently. The braided boy frowned and finally opened an eyelid. He blinked once, twice, and groaned.
" Ro, what dya want?" he croaked and sat.
Instead of answering, Heero turned heels and started towards the castle. Grunting and rubbing his eyes with his palms, Duo slowly followed.
******
Faramir was staring at his folded hands intensively. The news of the marching army was upsetting, especially since Rohan had never done anything to make enemies, even while Sauron's war. But now, right out of the ruins of Mordor was coming an enormous army. He knew he'd easily win with the strategy they came up with. That wasn't why he was upset. It was why they had to defend themselves. He couldn't find any answer and it unnerved him. And those boys.
Groaning, Faramir rested his head in his palms. Those three boys were a problem worst then the oncoming battle. He had sent messengers all over the continent in search of any clues on who they really were and where they came from but to no avail. He had managed to find that Duo Maxwell had first appeared in the Shire while Heero Yuy was first seen in Rivendel. It was the only info he had on them and it wasn't anything worthy. He hated himself for what he was doing to them, but he had no choice. Lord Ineluki was clearly forcing war on Middle Earth and they could be spies, but they were still kids in his eyes.
Remembering how he had met them, he came to the conclusion that whoever side's they were on, they were highly dangerous. They had proved to be valuable fighters and ingenious strategists. Chang couldn't be compared with when he used his strange sword and his taming of Shadowfax was an incredible thing. Maxwell, well he didn't know much except what Aseldir had told him. He believed he was a great archer and an even better knife- thrower. Aseldir also insisted that he could be cold and emotionless in battle, which was still to be proved. Besides, Zares confirmed his theories about his skills. Lastly was that Yuy guy. He was the most mysterious of all, although Aseldir insisted that he was the best warrior of them all. Faramir was intimidated by that boy and he didn't like it one bit. He wanted to know all about them in order to know if he could trust them or not.
" My Lord?"
Faramir looked up with tired eyes and sighed deeply. He had forgotten that Zares and Aseldir were still in the room, waiting for his last orders. He hadn't told them, but they knew they were waiting for his verdict on the three boys.
" Zares, are Master Yuy and Maxwell fit for battle?" he demanded, allowing his exhaustion to leak through his voice.
The doctor/scientist thought for a moment and shook his head negatively. " They're well enough to go around and do whatever pleases them, but they wouldn't last through a battle. At least for Master Maxwell I'm sure. Master Yuy appears to be able to fight, but I prefer not to take any risk. The poison coursing his veins is very tricky."
The King nodded absent-mindedly. He then leaned against his chair and stared at the roof for a while. The two subordinates waited patiently.
" Aseldir, go and inform Master Chang that he is to fight with us. Tell him it's to prove his good intentions and that if he does, nobody in this city will have anything to hold against him and his friend anymore."
" If he refuses?" Aseldir ventured, standing up to leave already.
Faramir shrugged. " I don't know, I really don't. All I want is one more man on the battlefield. But if he refuses, find something to persuade him. I don't know; tell him any lie that will do. Maybe threaten is friends if you need. Anything's fine, just get him on the battlefield."
" Yes my Lord." After a small bow, the red-haired hurried out of the room.
" As for you, my good Zares, I'm charging you of leading the citizens to safety in the mountains. I'm sure you'll be able to empty the city before tomorrow night." Faramir said with a small smile to the tall man.
" Of course my Lord. May I suggest I tell Miss Fidz for help?" The man asked after he got up.
Faramir blinked twice then burst out laughing. " Of course! She'll be pretty happy to help. Go and warn her now."
Laughing himself, Zares bowed and left. Once the tall man had closed the door, Faramir closed his eyes and sighed painfully. Rubbing at his eyes with his palms, he groaned. Everything was going wrong since Gandalf had left for the West. When would peace really be reached? Would they always have to walk with a sword over their head?
With those last thoughts in his head, Faramir retreated to his chambers.
******
Wufei was making his way through the rock chambers and corridors to his room in a sort of dazed dream. Since he had arrived, he hadn't had found the time to think, and some unconscious part of his mind refused to. He had been raised in a rational world to live as a rational person. But now he found himself in an unknown world that exceeded reason. As he watched the people live and think, he felt as if he was listening to one old fairy tale. Everything was different, worked differently. It all seemed so irrational compared to what he had been raised to live with. After barely two months and a half in this world, he found that piece of his mind still living for his logical world fade and die. Everything he had learned, his training, his instincts, were slowly giving way. As soon as he had realized that that little spark was fading, he had stopped living in Middle Earth. He refused to see it as a world but as a dream. Middle Earth wasn't real.
The Chinese boy stopped when he passed before a window. The curtains were gently flowing with the slight breeze and moonlight glistened on the solid rock. Ignoring the biting coldness of the wind, Wufei undid his ponytail, crossed his arms against the windowsill and sighed deeply. Silence reigned over Rohan as the people peacefully slept, ignorant to the danger. Faramir had refused to let them know, giving them their last nightmares free night for a while. He looked up at the full moon. It was beautiful, glowing in the dark sky. But it wasn't real. The wind playing in his hair, the cold biting his bones, it was all fake. Soon, he would wake up. The moon won't shine in a star-filled sky anymore but beside colonies. The green fields will give way to giant cities. Guns and mobile suits will replace the arrows and swords and the war will concern him again.
As he tried to convince himself that all this wasn't real, his defences faltered and weakened. He unconsciously thought that, if this world was a dream, it was much better than Earth. It was peaceful, even in the middle of a war. It was beautiful and calm and opposed everything he had been forced to follow. He was free in Middle Earth.
The cold finally convincing him, he pushed himself away from the window and closed it. The castle was hard enough to warm without an open window. Turning around to resume his way to his chambers, he froze when he saw a small person staring at him from the shadows. Wufei frowned and put a careful hand on the guard of his katana.
" Come out."
Iyaren stepped out of the shadows. He was shaking badly even with the heavy cloak covering him and his hair was sparkled with melting snow. His brown eyes were shining with an unnatural light and staring at him without blinking.
Wufei let go of his katana. " What is it?" he demanded gently but firmly enough to let him know he was in a hurry.
The young boy snapped out of his trance and seemed to only realize that he had been staring. Stuttering apologies, he bowed clumsily and started to remove the snow from his hair, which resulted in making them even messier.
" I'm sorry Sir. I, Zares has given me a message for you. He, he asked you to, to." he tried to explain, his attention now fixed on the floor.
" Asked me what?" Wufei continued, exasperated by his stuttering.
Taking a deep breath, Iyaren tried to regain control of his thoughts. When he had calmed down a little, he finished his sentence. " He said that Lord Faramir asks you to join the battle against Ineluki."
Wufei snorted and smirked. " Tell him I have no intention of helping them. This war doesn't concern me." He declared and walked away. He barely heard what Iyaren said next. Stopping in his tracks, he slowly turned around. " What did you say?" he asked. He had heard something but he preferred not to believe it.
Iyaren raised his head and looked at him, his eyes imploring. " Zares said that if you do not help, Faramir has no reason to help your friends and that he will order him to stop treating your friends. He said it would be greatly dangerous for their health."
Swearing everything he knew in Chinese, Wufei punched the wall. Turning on Iyaren, who was cowering in his corner, he ordered him to tell him what he had to do. The boy kept changing what he said and was stuttering so bad that the Asian boy finally told him to bring him to Zares. The young boy nodded quickly and hurried away.
Wufei followed, fuming. Faramir had crossed the line. He'd pay for that one day.
******
The city woke up early the next morning to the public shouters. They mainly gathered around a young man perched beside the magnificent statue of a horse in the square. Talking in whispers in order not to cover the man, they listened anxiously. Rumours had circulated during the night and they were scared of knowing if it was true.
The man suddenly stopped to make sure that what was written wasn't false. After a long dramatic pause, which kept the crowd in suspense, he took in a big shaky breath and shouted the rest.
The people gaped at him for a while, then recovered from the shock and ran to their homes, stepping on each other to get there as soon as possible. They wanted to get in the caves as quickly as they could.
******
Duo watched the bustle below from his window and sighed. He was glad he hadn't been asked to fight, but he was reluctant to go and hide in the caves while others fought for him. He had been trained for war and it was hard for him to go against his habits.
Thinking back, he realized how easy it had become to go against his instincts. He had noticed the change with his two comrades as well. They were more open, emotional. Heero was much less obsessed with missions and wars, even going back! Wufei had seemed to be able to forget his anger a bit. Middle Earth was changing them slowly, bit by bit, and smoothening the rough edges they had formed along the war. It probably wasn't the best thing to happen, but they would probably get their old habits again once they got back. It was like riding a bike, you can't forget it.
A chill filled the room and he crossed his arms over his chest to protect himself against the coolness of the morning. A shudder ran down his spine but Duo doubted that it was only due to the cold. He liked this world, loved it even, but he couldn't live here peacefully while he ignored how the war was fairing in Earth. This war didn't concern him, he could always withdraw to a calm village where he'd be left alone, but the war against OZ did concern him and he was a masterpiece on the giant check board. What would happen to the colonies if he decided to abandon them? Not to mention that Heero and Wufei were in the same position because of him.
His friends, he missed them. Quatre, Trowa, Howard and all the others. It killed him not to know what had happened to them for more then two months. He would be worried for everyone one of Middle Earth too, but never as much as his comrades. He knew he had to leave, but how?
" Master Maxwell! You close that window right now or you'll worsen your cold! What is in that head of yours, opening a window in winter!?"
The braided turned sharply to come nose to forehead with a small, plump woman. She had heard hands on her hips in a consternate gesture. He face was contorted with anger but he spotted a small glint of amusement in her eyes.
" Who are you?" he asked, surprised. He quickly stepped away when she stomped to the window and closed it roughly.
" Mary Fidz. I've been charged to get all the people of the castle out and into the caves. You and your stoic friend are the only ones left." The said Mary answered, rummaging through drawers and chests for objects she thought would be useful.
Duo watched, half surprised, half amused, Miss Fidz pile cloak, shirt, pants, gloves and many other things made especially for cold winters. Seeing his wondering look, she sighed and stopped.
" The caves are colder then outside itself and with no way or warming them up. You'll have to bring a couple of blankets to make sure not to freeze to death. We also don't know how long we'll be in there so I brought you two some food. It's in the bag over there." She explained, pointing to an old and ragged wool bag. " Now, please hurry and leave as soon as possible. Just follow the mob going to the caves. Good day."
She disappeared as soon as she had arrived and with a contained laughed, Duo dressed and prepared to go and get Heero.
******
It was hell to try and get into the caves. People were rushing in and out in total disorder; others were trying to have the guards let them bring beasts of all sorts. All in all, it was sunset when they got in. By that time, Duo was openly fuming, snapping at everyone for nothing and Heero was more stoical then ever. More then a few shuddered under his death glare.
The guards at the entrance recognized them immediately and let them pass without fuss; not that there was any to make. They had one bag of food and one for personal belongings, which was pretty small, for both.
" There probably won't be any place left in the farthest caves. You'll have to stay in those nearest to the entrance." One guard said before letting them in.
The two boys entered silently and froze. It was indeed full with people running here and there, mothers chasing after their crying kids, young boys playing at war. Squeezing between the masses, they managed to find a corner quieter than the others in which to rest.
" I didn't see Wufei anywhere. I hope he's somewhere near. I don't fancy searching for him in this crowd." Duo said after a long and contented sigh.
" We wait here for him until an hour after they've shut the cave has passed. If he didn't show up, we'll go out and fight." Heero replied.
" Good idea. If they found a way to make him fight, I want to make sure I'll fight too. I don't mind staying in the shadows of this war, but not when one of my friends is fighting while I'm resting." The braided boy stated and lay down as much as he could.
Heero watched him try to rest in the noise of the crowd and finally decided to recover his strength as well.
******
Wufei watched the city's last activities and frowned. The last thing he wanted to do was fight in this battle that didn't concern him but he had no choice. Duo and Heero's life would be in danger if he didn't. Moreover, Faramir had given one of the most dangerous jobs. He was to wait at the base of the mountain while riders lured the army towards him. Then, he'd lit the trail of oil they had placed a little earlier to block any retreat and to restrain their movements. Finally, archers strategically placed on the slopes would shoot them down. If they didn't have enough arrows, then the riders would finish the job.
Wufei thought that this method was incredibly cowardly and he was repulsed by it. Shadowfax could feel his restlessness and the animal was himself pretty nervous. Time passed and the sun was on the horizon when horns were heard. Shaking the cold off and lighting his torch, he hid behind a curved rock, waiting for his turn.
******
Lord Rear watched, as usual, from behind the lines as his army fought against the feeble resistance Rohan gave them. He doubted that something was wrong, but he couldn't take the risk of retreating and he had his orders. He couldn't afford to disappoint Lord Ineluki once again.
Suddenly, Rohan's riders stopped and fled, urging their powerful horses away from the attackers. The men chased them eagerly. Horns blew everywhere. When his troops were far enough, Rear kicked his strange mount after them, keeping safe distances. The riders went on and on until they passed the slope leading to the city. His men being too bloodthirsty to notice, he was the only one to stop at the sight. The place was completely empty. The gate stood unguarded; there wasn't a single archer on the walls. Frowning deeply, Rear steered Deathvoice up the slope, slowing it down to a walk when he passed the gate.
The large men advanced carefully in case of a trap but he finally cooled down he was positive that none would come. The place had been deserted. They had had to run to somewhere near because by the time the news of their attack could have reached Faramir, they were barely a day's walk from there.
An idea suddenly crossed his mind. Rear froze and a wide smirk illuminated his features. He kicked Deathvoice forward and galloped in the city, trying to find what he was searching for. He stopped abruptly when he finally caught sight of the cave's entrance. As he approached slowly, his mount started to resist him. It backed away despite everything Rear tried to do.
The general finally decided to give up and jumped off its back, took its reigns and walked it in the shadows a little farther away. Deathvoice's race was incredibly receptive to magical auras and they had a sixth sense for danger, better than any other animal's. Ignoring its warning would be foolish beyond reason.
Lord Rear could also feel them, fainter but present. They were two, and the general wondered that the third might be in the battle. Then he heard it: footsteps. He could barely hear it, but it was definitively there. Taking his sword, he walked towards the noise.
The boy before him was surprised beyond good sense. Jumping back, he grabbed his own sword and prepared to fight. Rear smirked. He could use a good fight. Allowing the brown-haired boy to make the first move, he savoured his soon-to-be victory.
It didn't take long for the general to get the upper hand. The boy was good, but his technique still needed to be polished. Rear threw the boy's sword to the ground and placed his own blade under his chin. Cold blue eyes stared at him.
" Heero!"
The general turned to stare at the approaching figure. He was a boy with a waist-long braid. His sword was out and violet eyes were burning with uncontrollable anger. Rear laughed openly. Shielding himself behind the shorthaired, Rear pressed just a little harder on his chin.
" I would suggest you to stop there, little boy, or I'll kill your friend." He snarled, taking pleasure in seeing the braided boy stop and drop his sword, fuming in anger. "There, that's better."
Rear then whistled for Deathvoice who came nervously. The two boys stared at the beast with wide eyes but were quickly brought back to reality. The general swiftly hit Heero on the head, knocking him out, and threw him across Deathvoice. Just when Duo rushed after them, Rear kicked his mount forward, easily distancing the braided boy.
******
" I'm going out."
Duo snapped his head up and stared at Heero. " What? Already? Give him more time! It's barely been half an hour!"
" The battle has started. He's not fighting alone." Heero retorted dryly and left without another word.
Duo pondered whether he should go after him or not, only to slap himself mentally. He quickly stood up, grabbed his sword and hurried after the Perfect Soldier.
Once outside, he followed his footsteps until the regular beat was disturbed by sounds of metal against metal. Unsheathing his sword, he ran to the source, only to find Heero with a blade against his neck.
" Heero!" he shouted angrily, prepared to kill the man who was holding Heero.
The taller guy laughed hoarsely and ordered him to stop. Duo wasn't about to until he caught sight of Heero's hand showing to obey. The braided boy complied half-heartedly and could only watch as the man knocked Heero out and ran away. His anger rose until he couldn't take it anymore.
His eyes turned almost black as he let his other side take over completely.
****** The End ******
Sorry for the delay, but I had and still have a big writer's block. The next chapter will probably take a long time too. I'm sorry but like that you're sure that it's not too bad, unlike the ending of this one.
A-Chan
Warnings: Nothing really. This chapter is mainly an insight on what each character his thinking. Not everyone though, I don't want to torture you too much^^
Disclaimer: I don't own Gundam Wing or Lord of the Rings.
Chapter 19
Duo lazily nudged a bit of snow off his foot and stretched. The sun had almost disappeared, casting shy rays onto the glittering whiteness. After barely stiffening a yawn, he crossed his arm behind his head and let himself fall back on the snow. He was getting slightly tired due to the fact that he still wasn't perfectly healed. He and the two other pilots had decided to come and rest a bit outside in the coolness of the evening. It was still early winter and the temperature was still warm.
Huddled in his red wool coat, the braided boy turned on his side. Heero was leaning against a trunk, talking with Wufei about the news. Duo had since long abandoned trying to even be interested with the conversation. As much as he cared, Ineluki could cause only a little damage to Rohan. The people here were cold towards strangers, even more towards ex- outlaws. Even with all his hate against Faramir, he didn't want the entire city burnt to the ground. Still, he knew that they only had to make a stand in the mountains covering their back to win the fight, whatever Ineluki brought against the city of horses.
Shaking his head slightly, he chased the thoughts away from his head. He had long since decided that he wouldn't be involved in this war. Helm's Deep had been an exception because they had to find Wufei. Now, he didn't have any reason to fight in this oncoming battle and risk to loose his life.
A small breeze blew and managed to crawl under Duo's skin. Shuddering once or twice, the American boy brought his knees to his chin. Night was falling and the temperature with it. The sun was a bloody red, announcing a sunny tomorrow. Duo noted with pleasure at how the rays made Heero's hair shine. They were a mix of his usual chocolate brown but the sun made red and cinnamon reflects dance in his messy hair. His eyes were now one of the purest blues enhanced with a touch of gold. The exterior colour was his usual cobalt blue, but around the irises dark gold stripes crossed over the blue as if trying to mix together.
With a small sigh, Duo told himself for the hundredth time that Heero was truly gorgeous. He had surprised himself with that thought many times already, but here, in this scenery and clothed like he was in heavy wool clothes, it was a magnificent sight.
An itch appeared in his eyes and he rubbed them, deciding to close them for a while. He fell asleep almost instantly.
******
Heero and Wufei stopped talking and cast a quick glance to the sleeping pilot. His breathing was slow and regular and his face was peaceful. The Chinese boy reverted his gaze back to the shorthaired boy and snickered silently. Middle Earth really was a mysterious place. Even the Perfect Soldier couldn't hide his feelings for the braided boy. Wufei had noticed them a few times already and he was sure Trowa and Quatre also had. It seemed that only the two concerned sides were ignorant.
Shrugging slightly, he coughed discreetly to get the Japanese boy's attention back. Two cold blue eyes fixed themselves on him, any sign of an emotion gone.
" We shouldn't get involved in this battle. I doubt they'll let us, but just in case they ask, I will refuse." The Chinese boy declared. Heero nodded his agreement.
" They already refused our help for a defensive plan. I don't think Faramir will lower himself in asking ex-outlaws for some help." Heero replied, leaning heavily against the trunk. His side was starting to itch him and he was getting dizzy.
" I think they already understood that their only chance is to make a stand in the mountains. They don't have the walls to fight them off from the city." Wufei continued and noticed Heero's tiredness. " Anyways, we'll have to wait until they come up with a decision. I suggest we go to sleep. Go and wake him up, I'll go and find Zares."
Heero reluctantly watched Wufei leave and stood up. He didn't want to wake Duo up; he seemed so calm and peaceful. But he couldn't leave him in the snow like that; he'd freeze to death. Sighing deeply, he crouched beside the sleeping boy and shook him gently. The braided boy frowned and finally opened an eyelid. He blinked once, twice, and groaned.
" Ro, what dya want?" he croaked and sat.
Instead of answering, Heero turned heels and started towards the castle. Grunting and rubbing his eyes with his palms, Duo slowly followed.
******
Faramir was staring at his folded hands intensively. The news of the marching army was upsetting, especially since Rohan had never done anything to make enemies, even while Sauron's war. But now, right out of the ruins of Mordor was coming an enormous army. He knew he'd easily win with the strategy they came up with. That wasn't why he was upset. It was why they had to defend themselves. He couldn't find any answer and it unnerved him. And those boys.
Groaning, Faramir rested his head in his palms. Those three boys were a problem worst then the oncoming battle. He had sent messengers all over the continent in search of any clues on who they really were and where they came from but to no avail. He had managed to find that Duo Maxwell had first appeared in the Shire while Heero Yuy was first seen in Rivendel. It was the only info he had on them and it wasn't anything worthy. He hated himself for what he was doing to them, but he had no choice. Lord Ineluki was clearly forcing war on Middle Earth and they could be spies, but they were still kids in his eyes.
Remembering how he had met them, he came to the conclusion that whoever side's they were on, they were highly dangerous. They had proved to be valuable fighters and ingenious strategists. Chang couldn't be compared with when he used his strange sword and his taming of Shadowfax was an incredible thing. Maxwell, well he didn't know much except what Aseldir had told him. He believed he was a great archer and an even better knife- thrower. Aseldir also insisted that he could be cold and emotionless in battle, which was still to be proved. Besides, Zares confirmed his theories about his skills. Lastly was that Yuy guy. He was the most mysterious of all, although Aseldir insisted that he was the best warrior of them all. Faramir was intimidated by that boy and he didn't like it one bit. He wanted to know all about them in order to know if he could trust them or not.
" My Lord?"
Faramir looked up with tired eyes and sighed deeply. He had forgotten that Zares and Aseldir were still in the room, waiting for his last orders. He hadn't told them, but they knew they were waiting for his verdict on the three boys.
" Zares, are Master Yuy and Maxwell fit for battle?" he demanded, allowing his exhaustion to leak through his voice.
The doctor/scientist thought for a moment and shook his head negatively. " They're well enough to go around and do whatever pleases them, but they wouldn't last through a battle. At least for Master Maxwell I'm sure. Master Yuy appears to be able to fight, but I prefer not to take any risk. The poison coursing his veins is very tricky."
The King nodded absent-mindedly. He then leaned against his chair and stared at the roof for a while. The two subordinates waited patiently.
" Aseldir, go and inform Master Chang that he is to fight with us. Tell him it's to prove his good intentions and that if he does, nobody in this city will have anything to hold against him and his friend anymore."
" If he refuses?" Aseldir ventured, standing up to leave already.
Faramir shrugged. " I don't know, I really don't. All I want is one more man on the battlefield. But if he refuses, find something to persuade him. I don't know; tell him any lie that will do. Maybe threaten is friends if you need. Anything's fine, just get him on the battlefield."
" Yes my Lord." After a small bow, the red-haired hurried out of the room.
" As for you, my good Zares, I'm charging you of leading the citizens to safety in the mountains. I'm sure you'll be able to empty the city before tomorrow night." Faramir said with a small smile to the tall man.
" Of course my Lord. May I suggest I tell Miss Fidz for help?" The man asked after he got up.
Faramir blinked twice then burst out laughing. " Of course! She'll be pretty happy to help. Go and warn her now."
Laughing himself, Zares bowed and left. Once the tall man had closed the door, Faramir closed his eyes and sighed painfully. Rubbing at his eyes with his palms, he groaned. Everything was going wrong since Gandalf had left for the West. When would peace really be reached? Would they always have to walk with a sword over their head?
With those last thoughts in his head, Faramir retreated to his chambers.
******
Wufei was making his way through the rock chambers and corridors to his room in a sort of dazed dream. Since he had arrived, he hadn't had found the time to think, and some unconscious part of his mind refused to. He had been raised in a rational world to live as a rational person. But now he found himself in an unknown world that exceeded reason. As he watched the people live and think, he felt as if he was listening to one old fairy tale. Everything was different, worked differently. It all seemed so irrational compared to what he had been raised to live with. After barely two months and a half in this world, he found that piece of his mind still living for his logical world fade and die. Everything he had learned, his training, his instincts, were slowly giving way. As soon as he had realized that that little spark was fading, he had stopped living in Middle Earth. He refused to see it as a world but as a dream. Middle Earth wasn't real.
The Chinese boy stopped when he passed before a window. The curtains were gently flowing with the slight breeze and moonlight glistened on the solid rock. Ignoring the biting coldness of the wind, Wufei undid his ponytail, crossed his arms against the windowsill and sighed deeply. Silence reigned over Rohan as the people peacefully slept, ignorant to the danger. Faramir had refused to let them know, giving them their last nightmares free night for a while. He looked up at the full moon. It was beautiful, glowing in the dark sky. But it wasn't real. The wind playing in his hair, the cold biting his bones, it was all fake. Soon, he would wake up. The moon won't shine in a star-filled sky anymore but beside colonies. The green fields will give way to giant cities. Guns and mobile suits will replace the arrows and swords and the war will concern him again.
As he tried to convince himself that all this wasn't real, his defences faltered and weakened. He unconsciously thought that, if this world was a dream, it was much better than Earth. It was peaceful, even in the middle of a war. It was beautiful and calm and opposed everything he had been forced to follow. He was free in Middle Earth.
The cold finally convincing him, he pushed himself away from the window and closed it. The castle was hard enough to warm without an open window. Turning around to resume his way to his chambers, he froze when he saw a small person staring at him from the shadows. Wufei frowned and put a careful hand on the guard of his katana.
" Come out."
Iyaren stepped out of the shadows. He was shaking badly even with the heavy cloak covering him and his hair was sparkled with melting snow. His brown eyes were shining with an unnatural light and staring at him without blinking.
Wufei let go of his katana. " What is it?" he demanded gently but firmly enough to let him know he was in a hurry.
The young boy snapped out of his trance and seemed to only realize that he had been staring. Stuttering apologies, he bowed clumsily and started to remove the snow from his hair, which resulted in making them even messier.
" I'm sorry Sir. I, Zares has given me a message for you. He, he asked you to, to." he tried to explain, his attention now fixed on the floor.
" Asked me what?" Wufei continued, exasperated by his stuttering.
Taking a deep breath, Iyaren tried to regain control of his thoughts. When he had calmed down a little, he finished his sentence. " He said that Lord Faramir asks you to join the battle against Ineluki."
Wufei snorted and smirked. " Tell him I have no intention of helping them. This war doesn't concern me." He declared and walked away. He barely heard what Iyaren said next. Stopping in his tracks, he slowly turned around. " What did you say?" he asked. He had heard something but he preferred not to believe it.
Iyaren raised his head and looked at him, his eyes imploring. " Zares said that if you do not help, Faramir has no reason to help your friends and that he will order him to stop treating your friends. He said it would be greatly dangerous for their health."
Swearing everything he knew in Chinese, Wufei punched the wall. Turning on Iyaren, who was cowering in his corner, he ordered him to tell him what he had to do. The boy kept changing what he said and was stuttering so bad that the Asian boy finally told him to bring him to Zares. The young boy nodded quickly and hurried away.
Wufei followed, fuming. Faramir had crossed the line. He'd pay for that one day.
******
The city woke up early the next morning to the public shouters. They mainly gathered around a young man perched beside the magnificent statue of a horse in the square. Talking in whispers in order not to cover the man, they listened anxiously. Rumours had circulated during the night and they were scared of knowing if it was true.
The man suddenly stopped to make sure that what was written wasn't false. After a long dramatic pause, which kept the crowd in suspense, he took in a big shaky breath and shouted the rest.
The people gaped at him for a while, then recovered from the shock and ran to their homes, stepping on each other to get there as soon as possible. They wanted to get in the caves as quickly as they could.
******
Duo watched the bustle below from his window and sighed. He was glad he hadn't been asked to fight, but he was reluctant to go and hide in the caves while others fought for him. He had been trained for war and it was hard for him to go against his habits.
Thinking back, he realized how easy it had become to go against his instincts. He had noticed the change with his two comrades as well. They were more open, emotional. Heero was much less obsessed with missions and wars, even going back! Wufei had seemed to be able to forget his anger a bit. Middle Earth was changing them slowly, bit by bit, and smoothening the rough edges they had formed along the war. It probably wasn't the best thing to happen, but they would probably get their old habits again once they got back. It was like riding a bike, you can't forget it.
A chill filled the room and he crossed his arms over his chest to protect himself against the coolness of the morning. A shudder ran down his spine but Duo doubted that it was only due to the cold. He liked this world, loved it even, but he couldn't live here peacefully while he ignored how the war was fairing in Earth. This war didn't concern him, he could always withdraw to a calm village where he'd be left alone, but the war against OZ did concern him and he was a masterpiece on the giant check board. What would happen to the colonies if he decided to abandon them? Not to mention that Heero and Wufei were in the same position because of him.
His friends, he missed them. Quatre, Trowa, Howard and all the others. It killed him not to know what had happened to them for more then two months. He would be worried for everyone one of Middle Earth too, but never as much as his comrades. He knew he had to leave, but how?
" Master Maxwell! You close that window right now or you'll worsen your cold! What is in that head of yours, opening a window in winter!?"
The braided turned sharply to come nose to forehead with a small, plump woman. She had heard hands on her hips in a consternate gesture. He face was contorted with anger but he spotted a small glint of amusement in her eyes.
" Who are you?" he asked, surprised. He quickly stepped away when she stomped to the window and closed it roughly.
" Mary Fidz. I've been charged to get all the people of the castle out and into the caves. You and your stoic friend are the only ones left." The said Mary answered, rummaging through drawers and chests for objects she thought would be useful.
Duo watched, half surprised, half amused, Miss Fidz pile cloak, shirt, pants, gloves and many other things made especially for cold winters. Seeing his wondering look, she sighed and stopped.
" The caves are colder then outside itself and with no way or warming them up. You'll have to bring a couple of blankets to make sure not to freeze to death. We also don't know how long we'll be in there so I brought you two some food. It's in the bag over there." She explained, pointing to an old and ragged wool bag. " Now, please hurry and leave as soon as possible. Just follow the mob going to the caves. Good day."
She disappeared as soon as she had arrived and with a contained laughed, Duo dressed and prepared to go and get Heero.
******
It was hell to try and get into the caves. People were rushing in and out in total disorder; others were trying to have the guards let them bring beasts of all sorts. All in all, it was sunset when they got in. By that time, Duo was openly fuming, snapping at everyone for nothing and Heero was more stoical then ever. More then a few shuddered under his death glare.
The guards at the entrance recognized them immediately and let them pass without fuss; not that there was any to make. They had one bag of food and one for personal belongings, which was pretty small, for both.
" There probably won't be any place left in the farthest caves. You'll have to stay in those nearest to the entrance." One guard said before letting them in.
The two boys entered silently and froze. It was indeed full with people running here and there, mothers chasing after their crying kids, young boys playing at war. Squeezing between the masses, they managed to find a corner quieter than the others in which to rest.
" I didn't see Wufei anywhere. I hope he's somewhere near. I don't fancy searching for him in this crowd." Duo said after a long and contented sigh.
" We wait here for him until an hour after they've shut the cave has passed. If he didn't show up, we'll go out and fight." Heero replied.
" Good idea. If they found a way to make him fight, I want to make sure I'll fight too. I don't mind staying in the shadows of this war, but not when one of my friends is fighting while I'm resting." The braided boy stated and lay down as much as he could.
Heero watched him try to rest in the noise of the crowd and finally decided to recover his strength as well.
******
Wufei watched the city's last activities and frowned. The last thing he wanted to do was fight in this battle that didn't concern him but he had no choice. Duo and Heero's life would be in danger if he didn't. Moreover, Faramir had given one of the most dangerous jobs. He was to wait at the base of the mountain while riders lured the army towards him. Then, he'd lit the trail of oil they had placed a little earlier to block any retreat and to restrain their movements. Finally, archers strategically placed on the slopes would shoot them down. If they didn't have enough arrows, then the riders would finish the job.
Wufei thought that this method was incredibly cowardly and he was repulsed by it. Shadowfax could feel his restlessness and the animal was himself pretty nervous. Time passed and the sun was on the horizon when horns were heard. Shaking the cold off and lighting his torch, he hid behind a curved rock, waiting for his turn.
******
Lord Rear watched, as usual, from behind the lines as his army fought against the feeble resistance Rohan gave them. He doubted that something was wrong, but he couldn't take the risk of retreating and he had his orders. He couldn't afford to disappoint Lord Ineluki once again.
Suddenly, Rohan's riders stopped and fled, urging their powerful horses away from the attackers. The men chased them eagerly. Horns blew everywhere. When his troops were far enough, Rear kicked his strange mount after them, keeping safe distances. The riders went on and on until they passed the slope leading to the city. His men being too bloodthirsty to notice, he was the only one to stop at the sight. The place was completely empty. The gate stood unguarded; there wasn't a single archer on the walls. Frowning deeply, Rear steered Deathvoice up the slope, slowing it down to a walk when he passed the gate.
The large men advanced carefully in case of a trap but he finally cooled down he was positive that none would come. The place had been deserted. They had had to run to somewhere near because by the time the news of their attack could have reached Faramir, they were barely a day's walk from there.
An idea suddenly crossed his mind. Rear froze and a wide smirk illuminated his features. He kicked Deathvoice forward and galloped in the city, trying to find what he was searching for. He stopped abruptly when he finally caught sight of the cave's entrance. As he approached slowly, his mount started to resist him. It backed away despite everything Rear tried to do.
The general finally decided to give up and jumped off its back, took its reigns and walked it in the shadows a little farther away. Deathvoice's race was incredibly receptive to magical auras and they had a sixth sense for danger, better than any other animal's. Ignoring its warning would be foolish beyond reason.
Lord Rear could also feel them, fainter but present. They were two, and the general wondered that the third might be in the battle. Then he heard it: footsteps. He could barely hear it, but it was definitively there. Taking his sword, he walked towards the noise.
The boy before him was surprised beyond good sense. Jumping back, he grabbed his own sword and prepared to fight. Rear smirked. He could use a good fight. Allowing the brown-haired boy to make the first move, he savoured his soon-to-be victory.
It didn't take long for the general to get the upper hand. The boy was good, but his technique still needed to be polished. Rear threw the boy's sword to the ground and placed his own blade under his chin. Cold blue eyes stared at him.
" Heero!"
The general turned to stare at the approaching figure. He was a boy with a waist-long braid. His sword was out and violet eyes were burning with uncontrollable anger. Rear laughed openly. Shielding himself behind the shorthaired, Rear pressed just a little harder on his chin.
" I would suggest you to stop there, little boy, or I'll kill your friend." He snarled, taking pleasure in seeing the braided boy stop and drop his sword, fuming in anger. "There, that's better."
Rear then whistled for Deathvoice who came nervously. The two boys stared at the beast with wide eyes but were quickly brought back to reality. The general swiftly hit Heero on the head, knocking him out, and threw him across Deathvoice. Just when Duo rushed after them, Rear kicked his mount forward, easily distancing the braided boy.
******
" I'm going out."
Duo snapped his head up and stared at Heero. " What? Already? Give him more time! It's barely been half an hour!"
" The battle has started. He's not fighting alone." Heero retorted dryly and left without another word.
Duo pondered whether he should go after him or not, only to slap himself mentally. He quickly stood up, grabbed his sword and hurried after the Perfect Soldier.
Once outside, he followed his footsteps until the regular beat was disturbed by sounds of metal against metal. Unsheathing his sword, he ran to the source, only to find Heero with a blade against his neck.
" Heero!" he shouted angrily, prepared to kill the man who was holding Heero.
The taller guy laughed hoarsely and ordered him to stop. Duo wasn't about to until he caught sight of Heero's hand showing to obey. The braided boy complied half-heartedly and could only watch as the man knocked Heero out and ran away. His anger rose until he couldn't take it anymore.
His eyes turned almost black as he let his other side take over completely.
****** The End ******
Sorry for the delay, but I had and still have a big writer's block. The next chapter will probably take a long time too. I'm sorry but like that you're sure that it's not too bad, unlike the ending of this one.
A-Chan