Haven: Gundam Wing
By: Derrian Star
Chapter 5
It was small, simple; no one would ever take a second glance at it. Yet as it sat there in the middle of the wooden table Duo and Trowa stared at it. Almost as if they took that second to look away, they would be bitten. It was small and a deep red/purple in colour. Like a grape but flatter. "That's it huh?" The braided one asked in a hushed voice. The other nodded, seeking a quick glance to the sleeping form buried under several covers near the hearth. Looking for any sign of wakefulness, there was none.
"He said it would take exactly one day. That's enough time to get far away afterwards."
One deep breath in, held, then out. Then a small black sack was set next to the deadly fruit. "This is immediate." The smaller of the two stated matter- o-fact. "A little in the wine and anything we need to know is ours."
"When?" That was the question of the day. But neither one wanted to answer. As much of this they planned and accomplished to this point mattered little to the conclusion. The rule of Arislan would forever be changed. "What about Quatre?"
Now Duo looked to the heap on his bed. "We send him to the Oak, he doesn't need to be around here when this hits." Trowa had to agree, who knew what would happen. But the outcome might just be the entire Arislanic Knights out for blood, theirs. The kid had already seen the city at its worst; there was no need for any more.
"I would like to know what I am involved in before I am sent away." Covers were pushed back slightly to reveal a not so sleeping companion, in fact he looked very much aware. The warm material was wrapped around his shoulders as he sat up and looked at the shocked two. "Besides, I have much to do before I am going anywhere." The air around the blond changed ever so slightly, more confident and willful he would get his way. It fit a bit better then the shy, scared Quatre.
"You were supposed to be sleeping." Trowa said softly.
"Well I woke up. What ever you're discussing has you both on edge, so I can't help but be woken."
Duo scooted back his stool and went to the others side, "Its for you own good kid, what could be more important then you life?"
"My home!" the said was snapped out of pure anger and despair. Water misted those large eyes but where not allowed to be shed.
The violet-eyed youth scratched the back of his head, a bit taken back. "Care to elaborate a bit for us?" They had kept many details of the two sides a secret from one another. Only that which was freely given was known.
"I can't." Quatre broke his gaze, looking instead to his bandages.
"Then your going . . .no questions asked." Duo's braid swung around with his body as he turned to go back to the table. Signaling the end of the conversation.
"You can't force me to!!" Quatre half rose out of the bed, teeth chattering slightly.
Again the braid whirled, smacking against the other's tan skin. Eyes flashing dangerously. "Yes we can!" The look that was given was one the desert born never cared to see again, it cut straight through to his heart. One hand went to the center of his chest, trying to block out the anger he felt. Duo wasn't like this . . .He smiled, always. Bounced a bit when he took stride. This nature was there, buried, but never right.
Shoulders sagged as his posture went from proud to defeated. He wouldn't be forced to leave. There was still far too much that had to be done. He had every right to stay. But to do so, he had to give up much. Getting up, sheets and all, Quatre went to the table, removing a long chain over his head. Another item to accompany the two already at the center of the wood. Trowa eyes went wide and he swore recognizing the importance of the token. Duo's brows rose in a bit of confusion and quickly joined them to have a look at the large golden ring that had once been around the blonde's neck Trowa looked at Quatre's shamed eyes. It was his secret after all.
Far too large to fit even the largest of the pale fingers, its golden surface dulled by age, but never-the-less brilliant. The flat face reflected back the view of the world around it with a hue of onyx. Silver outlined a plateau of rock, a large sapphire represented Cerkadia the old moon, and a diamond just a fraction of that size was Aura the new moon. The gems alone must have been worth a fortune.
"I'm not quite sure I understand?"
Of course he didn't, Duo had never even heard of Volderon until they had first met Quatre. What a sight it must be. watching the moons rise over the towering mountains, racing to the other side. The lean acrobat could almost see it, "It's a royal crest Duo . . . "
"Okay, okay, if it's royal then why does Quat have . . .it . . .Oh ! . . " Long lashes pulled back in disbelief. "Shit . . . "
Long blond bangs were finding their use as a place to hide from the twin stares. He could feel it all, their shock, their confusion, and their suspicion. "My full name is Quatre Raberba Winner, heir to the Volderon throne after my father King Gresto. I came here to gain the aid of Arislan, my kingdom is under siege. We . . .we can't win." his voice cracked. Small hands clenched at his side.
Trowa left his seat and gently held the shaking shoulders. "The travel alone must have taken weeks, then your injury, how do you know the Rock city still stands?"
"It didn't . . .No, I have only been gone three and a half weeks, as strong as the attackers are they can't break through a mountain. Everyone alive probably took safety in the caverns, the supplies will last for another month at least. For the time being they all should be safe. But after the food and water runs out, there will be no choice but to fight. My father in the front lines." The young prince choked back a sob. His family, his friends, his whole life.
"And they sent you for help, knowing that even if they don't make it there would still be one."
"A king to rule over a graveyard. That is why I must stay Duo! I have to bring back help, going away is not an option for me."
Duo bowed his head in understanding. "This changes a lot Trowa." The green eyed young man lead a rapidly exhausting Quatre back to his bed, soothing the tears best he could.
"Maybe, but it might help also. He would never expect such a direct attack, not at a royal banquet."
Wiping at his ocean blue eyes with the edge of a blanket Quatre sniffled. "I will help however I can."
"You don't have a clue on what we're planning yet." Duo countered with a smirk.
"It doesn't matter, I can tell that it is the right thing what ever it is. Two hearts are fully in it" Complete trust with a little help from his newfound gift, make it three.
***
Taking a deep breath to calm the ever-growing butterflies in his stomach. Quatre approached the armored guard that stood on either side of the first drawbridge to the inner castle. And the King. He still donned his thick cloak, still untrusting until the truth was revealed. 'I must look like a suspicious beggar' he thought seeing how the guards raised curious eyebrows to the sight that approached them. Swords were quickly unsheathed to cross in front of his path.
"State your business!"
Another deep breath. "I seek an audience with the king."
"State the nature of your business with his Highness."
"My business is my own. But it is of the utmost importance."
The larger of the two stepped closer, trying to peer into the shadows cast by the hood and see whom he was talking to. "Everything is important these days little one, but we can't be letting just anyone in to see the King. It's dangerous. Some care to do him harm."
With a bow of his head Quatre agreed, he knew of the dangers. He had faced them himself before. "You may accompany me to the throne room if you wish. I assure you he will see me once I present my case." Never turn your back. It was an old and very important rule in diplomats. People give to confidence. But show any signs of weakness and your story automatically loses its validity.
One last malicious glare, "Fine." The swords were put away and the doors pulled open. "But we'll be watching you." He followed the one who lead the way, the other guard in turn followed behind him.
On the outside the White Castle would easily render anyone awe stuck. Different levels spiraled their way to one top most tower. It was huge, far bigger then his own home, reaching to the clouds themselves. But on the inside was the grandeur of it all. The ceiling practically soared overhead. Tall pillars leading their way down the main hall. Brightly coloured banners unrolled on the walls. Priceless antiques on displayed. Just one of any of those could have paid for food for a month's time. Yet taxes were still collected from the suffering people.
Huge twin doors lined in gold were opened for them to proceed. The throne room richly decorated and scented with fresh flowers, it was here where his business would be heard. The escorts took up position on either side of him, hands place lightly on weapons, waiting for any false move. Quatre gave them none, strolling with determination to the other end of the room where the ivory throne sat on a small temple incline.
Two men were there, the elder of the two was sitting on the throne itself, eyes bowed to his lap. The other, Quatre recognized from the fruit shop was the crown prince, stood slightly leaning over the first, talking in rapid hushed tones. Before the desert born could even reach the center of the long room the prince glanced up and in his direction.
"What is the meaning of this?! I strictly forbid anyone from disturbing my father today." The dark featured man stood tall, white clothes pressed down lightly. The anger simply rolled off his person.
Stammering, the guards bowed deep, swords crossed in front of their bodies. "Sorry your Highness, he insisted on an audience . . . said the King would see him as soon as he spoke his task."
A glance from the two armored figures sharply came in Quatre's direction. "Well then? What is it you must say boy?" Any forgiveness the prince had shown before was entirely banished now. But of course he would never remember a lowly commoner he had met one day not that far back.
"My business is solely with the King." He ducked his head in a slight show of respect. After all it wasn't some snobbish prince he was here to talk to. This matter was far too important to be taken to by one who only cared for his own comfort.
"Guards!!"
The hood pushed back an inch as Quatre's head snapped back up, blue green eyes wide with unbelief. Gauntlets seized him on either side, dragging him back to the door and out of the palace.
"I must speak with King Lidus!!" He was sorely outmatched but still he put up a struggle. Wincing as partially healed wounds were jarred.
"I deem who will see my father, and it will surely not be a petty boy who doesn't know his place in this kingdom!" The darker man turned back around, ignoring the problem since it was being taken care of. He laid a hand on the older man's shoulder, speaking again softly. The gray head of the one seated on the throne, seemed to nod mechanically to the words he heard, but his eyes were watching Quatre, as he was forcefully led out.
"Your majesty please!" small hands found their way to the chain that hung around his neck and pulled it free with a jerk. "Ih flehen asyl!"
"Guards, release the boy." The King commanded softly, but with no less authority then his son before. He slowly rose from his ivory perch, taking his turn to ignore the demands of the one he left behind. Seeing many years had taken their toll of the ruler of Arislan. Peppered grey hair was trimmed short and his beard was neat. The royal robes he wore seem far too heavy for his slightly bent stature. But the strength was still there, one needed strength when he had to watch over his people. "Come forward lad and state your business with me." He slowly took the two steps down, bringing him to level with the cloaked figure.
Free from the metal hands Quatre gave a proper bow before doing as told. The king was still decently taller then himself, making him feel smaller then he should since it was the Prince he just confronted and won to. Wrinkle hands were held out awaiting the golden ring that had gained the blond his audience. He studied it for a minute, making sure of its authenticity, before handing it back. "What is it you have to say?" Years of training kept the voice smooth and unreadable.
"I've come to ask for the aid of the legendary Arislan knights Milord."
"Ha!" The prince stepped down to be at his father's side. Deep brown eyes smoldering the smaller covered boy before him. "The knights don't just answer to anyone boy. Just who do you think you are, coming here and demanding their service?" A small half hidden smile graced the thin lips of the grey King.
Tussled locks shown gold as the heavy hood was pushed off for the first time in public since his near burning. Colours so unlike anything born in the white city. "I am Quatre Raberba Winner. Prince to the Volderon throne, nephew to His majesty." Again the young man bowed to the king, his uncle. Eyes missing the frantic glance to his father and the step backwards the dark man took at his announcement, but his new abilities never missing the shock as it filled the entire room. Except for the elderly man who crushed him in an embrace.
"Quatre my boy! It has been far too long!"
By: Derrian Star
Chapter 5
It was small, simple; no one would ever take a second glance at it. Yet as it sat there in the middle of the wooden table Duo and Trowa stared at it. Almost as if they took that second to look away, they would be bitten. It was small and a deep red/purple in colour. Like a grape but flatter. "That's it huh?" The braided one asked in a hushed voice. The other nodded, seeking a quick glance to the sleeping form buried under several covers near the hearth. Looking for any sign of wakefulness, there was none.
"He said it would take exactly one day. That's enough time to get far away afterwards."
One deep breath in, held, then out. Then a small black sack was set next to the deadly fruit. "This is immediate." The smaller of the two stated matter- o-fact. "A little in the wine and anything we need to know is ours."
"When?" That was the question of the day. But neither one wanted to answer. As much of this they planned and accomplished to this point mattered little to the conclusion. The rule of Arislan would forever be changed. "What about Quatre?"
Now Duo looked to the heap on his bed. "We send him to the Oak, he doesn't need to be around here when this hits." Trowa had to agree, who knew what would happen. But the outcome might just be the entire Arislanic Knights out for blood, theirs. The kid had already seen the city at its worst; there was no need for any more.
"I would like to know what I am involved in before I am sent away." Covers were pushed back slightly to reveal a not so sleeping companion, in fact he looked very much aware. The warm material was wrapped around his shoulders as he sat up and looked at the shocked two. "Besides, I have much to do before I am going anywhere." The air around the blond changed ever so slightly, more confident and willful he would get his way. It fit a bit better then the shy, scared Quatre.
"You were supposed to be sleeping." Trowa said softly.
"Well I woke up. What ever you're discussing has you both on edge, so I can't help but be woken."
Duo scooted back his stool and went to the others side, "Its for you own good kid, what could be more important then you life?"
"My home!" the said was snapped out of pure anger and despair. Water misted those large eyes but where not allowed to be shed.
The violet-eyed youth scratched the back of his head, a bit taken back. "Care to elaborate a bit for us?" They had kept many details of the two sides a secret from one another. Only that which was freely given was known.
"I can't." Quatre broke his gaze, looking instead to his bandages.
"Then your going . . .no questions asked." Duo's braid swung around with his body as he turned to go back to the table. Signaling the end of the conversation.
"You can't force me to!!" Quatre half rose out of the bed, teeth chattering slightly.
Again the braid whirled, smacking against the other's tan skin. Eyes flashing dangerously. "Yes we can!" The look that was given was one the desert born never cared to see again, it cut straight through to his heart. One hand went to the center of his chest, trying to block out the anger he felt. Duo wasn't like this . . .He smiled, always. Bounced a bit when he took stride. This nature was there, buried, but never right.
Shoulders sagged as his posture went from proud to defeated. He wouldn't be forced to leave. There was still far too much that had to be done. He had every right to stay. But to do so, he had to give up much. Getting up, sheets and all, Quatre went to the table, removing a long chain over his head. Another item to accompany the two already at the center of the wood. Trowa eyes went wide and he swore recognizing the importance of the token. Duo's brows rose in a bit of confusion and quickly joined them to have a look at the large golden ring that had once been around the blonde's neck Trowa looked at Quatre's shamed eyes. It was his secret after all.
Far too large to fit even the largest of the pale fingers, its golden surface dulled by age, but never-the-less brilliant. The flat face reflected back the view of the world around it with a hue of onyx. Silver outlined a plateau of rock, a large sapphire represented Cerkadia the old moon, and a diamond just a fraction of that size was Aura the new moon. The gems alone must have been worth a fortune.
"I'm not quite sure I understand?"
Of course he didn't, Duo had never even heard of Volderon until they had first met Quatre. What a sight it must be. watching the moons rise over the towering mountains, racing to the other side. The lean acrobat could almost see it, "It's a royal crest Duo . . . "
"Okay, okay, if it's royal then why does Quat have . . .it . . .Oh ! . . " Long lashes pulled back in disbelief. "Shit . . . "
Long blond bangs were finding their use as a place to hide from the twin stares. He could feel it all, their shock, their confusion, and their suspicion. "My full name is Quatre Raberba Winner, heir to the Volderon throne after my father King Gresto. I came here to gain the aid of Arislan, my kingdom is under siege. We . . .we can't win." his voice cracked. Small hands clenched at his side.
Trowa left his seat and gently held the shaking shoulders. "The travel alone must have taken weeks, then your injury, how do you know the Rock city still stands?"
"It didn't . . .No, I have only been gone three and a half weeks, as strong as the attackers are they can't break through a mountain. Everyone alive probably took safety in the caverns, the supplies will last for another month at least. For the time being they all should be safe. But after the food and water runs out, there will be no choice but to fight. My father in the front lines." The young prince choked back a sob. His family, his friends, his whole life.
"And they sent you for help, knowing that even if they don't make it there would still be one."
"A king to rule over a graveyard. That is why I must stay Duo! I have to bring back help, going away is not an option for me."
Duo bowed his head in understanding. "This changes a lot Trowa." The green eyed young man lead a rapidly exhausting Quatre back to his bed, soothing the tears best he could.
"Maybe, but it might help also. He would never expect such a direct attack, not at a royal banquet."
Wiping at his ocean blue eyes with the edge of a blanket Quatre sniffled. "I will help however I can."
"You don't have a clue on what we're planning yet." Duo countered with a smirk.
"It doesn't matter, I can tell that it is the right thing what ever it is. Two hearts are fully in it" Complete trust with a little help from his newfound gift, make it three.
***
Taking a deep breath to calm the ever-growing butterflies in his stomach. Quatre approached the armored guard that stood on either side of the first drawbridge to the inner castle. And the King. He still donned his thick cloak, still untrusting until the truth was revealed. 'I must look like a suspicious beggar' he thought seeing how the guards raised curious eyebrows to the sight that approached them. Swords were quickly unsheathed to cross in front of his path.
"State your business!"
Another deep breath. "I seek an audience with the king."
"State the nature of your business with his Highness."
"My business is my own. But it is of the utmost importance."
The larger of the two stepped closer, trying to peer into the shadows cast by the hood and see whom he was talking to. "Everything is important these days little one, but we can't be letting just anyone in to see the King. It's dangerous. Some care to do him harm."
With a bow of his head Quatre agreed, he knew of the dangers. He had faced them himself before. "You may accompany me to the throne room if you wish. I assure you he will see me once I present my case." Never turn your back. It was an old and very important rule in diplomats. People give to confidence. But show any signs of weakness and your story automatically loses its validity.
One last malicious glare, "Fine." The swords were put away and the doors pulled open. "But we'll be watching you." He followed the one who lead the way, the other guard in turn followed behind him.
On the outside the White Castle would easily render anyone awe stuck. Different levels spiraled their way to one top most tower. It was huge, far bigger then his own home, reaching to the clouds themselves. But on the inside was the grandeur of it all. The ceiling practically soared overhead. Tall pillars leading their way down the main hall. Brightly coloured banners unrolled on the walls. Priceless antiques on displayed. Just one of any of those could have paid for food for a month's time. Yet taxes were still collected from the suffering people.
Huge twin doors lined in gold were opened for them to proceed. The throne room richly decorated and scented with fresh flowers, it was here where his business would be heard. The escorts took up position on either side of him, hands place lightly on weapons, waiting for any false move. Quatre gave them none, strolling with determination to the other end of the room where the ivory throne sat on a small temple incline.
Two men were there, the elder of the two was sitting on the throne itself, eyes bowed to his lap. The other, Quatre recognized from the fruit shop was the crown prince, stood slightly leaning over the first, talking in rapid hushed tones. Before the desert born could even reach the center of the long room the prince glanced up and in his direction.
"What is the meaning of this?! I strictly forbid anyone from disturbing my father today." The dark featured man stood tall, white clothes pressed down lightly. The anger simply rolled off his person.
Stammering, the guards bowed deep, swords crossed in front of their bodies. "Sorry your Highness, he insisted on an audience . . . said the King would see him as soon as he spoke his task."
A glance from the two armored figures sharply came in Quatre's direction. "Well then? What is it you must say boy?" Any forgiveness the prince had shown before was entirely banished now. But of course he would never remember a lowly commoner he had met one day not that far back.
"My business is solely with the King." He ducked his head in a slight show of respect. After all it wasn't some snobbish prince he was here to talk to. This matter was far too important to be taken to by one who only cared for his own comfort.
"Guards!!"
The hood pushed back an inch as Quatre's head snapped back up, blue green eyes wide with unbelief. Gauntlets seized him on either side, dragging him back to the door and out of the palace.
"I must speak with King Lidus!!" He was sorely outmatched but still he put up a struggle. Wincing as partially healed wounds were jarred.
"I deem who will see my father, and it will surely not be a petty boy who doesn't know his place in this kingdom!" The darker man turned back around, ignoring the problem since it was being taken care of. He laid a hand on the older man's shoulder, speaking again softly. The gray head of the one seated on the throne, seemed to nod mechanically to the words he heard, but his eyes were watching Quatre, as he was forcefully led out.
"Your majesty please!" small hands found their way to the chain that hung around his neck and pulled it free with a jerk. "Ih flehen asyl!"
"Guards, release the boy." The King commanded softly, but with no less authority then his son before. He slowly rose from his ivory perch, taking his turn to ignore the demands of the one he left behind. Seeing many years had taken their toll of the ruler of Arislan. Peppered grey hair was trimmed short and his beard was neat. The royal robes he wore seem far too heavy for his slightly bent stature. But the strength was still there, one needed strength when he had to watch over his people. "Come forward lad and state your business with me." He slowly took the two steps down, bringing him to level with the cloaked figure.
Free from the metal hands Quatre gave a proper bow before doing as told. The king was still decently taller then himself, making him feel smaller then he should since it was the Prince he just confronted and won to. Wrinkle hands were held out awaiting the golden ring that had gained the blond his audience. He studied it for a minute, making sure of its authenticity, before handing it back. "What is it you have to say?" Years of training kept the voice smooth and unreadable.
"I've come to ask for the aid of the legendary Arislan knights Milord."
"Ha!" The prince stepped down to be at his father's side. Deep brown eyes smoldering the smaller covered boy before him. "The knights don't just answer to anyone boy. Just who do you think you are, coming here and demanding their service?" A small half hidden smile graced the thin lips of the grey King.
Tussled locks shown gold as the heavy hood was pushed off for the first time in public since his near burning. Colours so unlike anything born in the white city. "I am Quatre Raberba Winner. Prince to the Volderon throne, nephew to His majesty." Again the young man bowed to the king, his uncle. Eyes missing the frantic glance to his father and the step backwards the dark man took at his announcement, but his new abilities never missing the shock as it filled the entire room. Except for the elderly man who crushed him in an embrace.
"Quatre my boy! It has been far too long!"