Part 6
Lucia took a deep breath, and squeezed the trigger. It was the smallest of his weapons but potent. She'd jokingly compared it to a midi cricket in MIB, when Sharon and Keith were speaking of their 'training.' Keith shouldered a large laser rifle, and set its haft into the hollow of his shoulder. He aimed, and then landed on his butt with the kickback. In the shooting lane next to him, Sharon fired her own rifle, and compensated for the movement with a twist of her torso.
"Excellent," MacBeth said as he stood behind the glass, watching each of their progressions.
The sound of footsteps echoed, and MacBeth depressed a button with his black gloved hand. "Mr. Yale, yer late," he scolded.
"Sorry Prof. Mac, had a run in with the witch of the north..."
"How unfortunate for her and ye no doubt. Well, pick yer weapon and arm yerself. Dinna forget the ear protection this time," MacBeth said firmly. It was ironic how he'd used this same course to train Banquo and Fleance when they worked for him. He'd never thought he'd be using it again. Now the three students, dressed in gray armor similar in design to his erstwhile hired muscle, were familiarizing themselves with the same weapons.
With a twist. Banquo and Fleance knew his secrets, and he had anticipated them. Any counter-armament developed on the Quarryman side was given was countermanded on the PIT side from an unlikely source. HE leafed through the computer file that Robyn Canmore had given him. She went by Corey now, having shunned the Hunter Name in favor of cooperating with the police. However, she had shuddered to even dream of associating herself in any way except as an informant. Parole violation was something you didn't mess with.
Lucia nervously wandered into the gallery, watching her fellow students fire off round after round. Mobile targets and conventional ones were being singed and missed by the three. Bill Yale chose the laser rifle, and hefted it like a pro, standing next to Sharon on her other side. Carlos was swinging a staff around in his hands, sparring with some unknown person as he practiced the patented moves he'd learned. On some days MacBeth still returned to class, and his students would take their private lessons through Robyn, or another source.
"Are you sure this is REALLY necessary?" asked someone next to him. MacBeth sensed the presence and turned to face the woman whose face he knew in his worst dreams and nightmares.
"Ye of all people shuidna ask THAT," he said pointedly, scowling at her.
"I heard you were asking Robyn for information... I had no idea this was what you were doing," Lina said softly, her hair a coppery gold instead of the bright red of her double.
"Tis nae concern of yers," MacBeth repeated. "Carlos, follow through..."
"Do you think yourself some Professor X..." Lina said, before MacBeth turned on her.
"And what wuild ye have me do, lass?" he snapped. "Stand by whilst Canmore sucks more innocents in? Nae, I must fight. I've taken the cowards way for FAR too long..."
"Your efforts are noble, MacBeth," Lina said as she shook her head. "But futile. Canmore knows ALL your secrets..."
"There are few that he does know. Ye didna think that I'd have a backup plan fer incase Banquo and Fleance betrayed me? Did my doppelganger make such a sloppy mistake?"
"No," said Lina, with a sigh. MacBeth had lost track of the time, and Lina put a hand to her head, grasping her stomach. MacBeth knew the pain she faced. Apologetically she backed out of the room, letting out her moans as he did the same.
"I'm sorry..." she winced as he huddled on the floor. "I shouldn't be here..."
MacBeth panted, as she helped him up, and let her do so. She was so unlike the other half he knew from this time, it was crazy. Lina glanced at him, her own face midnight blue absent of a gold crest, and her wings caped. He could swear she resembled her early self, back when they were allies, not enemies. Sadness filled her dark eyes, and she saw his harsh look fade into question.
"Tis not yer fault," he muttered as he turned away, and she stood there, helpless.
"It is, if I hadn't come here... we wouldn't be again linked..."
"We're pawns o' fate aren't we?" MacBeth laughed bitterly as he collapsed into a chair. "In this universe or the other..."
"The Weird sisters," nodded Lina, as she sat opposite him, and her face held nothing but deep respect and shared sadness.
"Tell me, just HOW did you and I..."
"Bury the hatchet?" Lina supplied. "Are you sure you wish to know?"
"Aye, that I do," he nodded.
"It was after Thailog saw what Xanatos had become. After I joined those in the labyrinth... and I showed up on your doorstep..."
"Go on..."
"There is little else to tell," she said. "Other than the fact that you and I realized we had a choice. Kill one another or band together and face the hatred of a common foe for all time..."
"And we were still linked?"
"Yes," Lina said. "As we are now..."
"My counterpart, how similar were we?"
"Very much so..."
"I've seen this future, and it disturbs me. What disturbs me more is the lack of hope it sheds. And yet I know that if I do not act, it may be far worse..."
"I can't answer that. But I'm tired of fighting... God knows why you're not..."
"Are you saying I should do nothing?" MacBeth scowled.
"No," she sighed. "What I mean is... oh never mind..."
"Demona... Lina..." he got out. "What would ye have me do?"
"Only what you feel is best. I don't know if being here will help or harm this universe..."
"Did ye perhaps think that there might be some way to return to yours, and stop what happened?" MacBeth asked. "If such a thing were possible, would you be able to stop it?"
"How could I return?"
"We both know the answer to that. There be a member of the Manhattan clan who can help ye. And perhaps someone else..."
"MacBeth, you can't ask me to go back?"
"If ye could, wouldn't it be far better to much about in your own universe than sit here and be afraid to act? Yer no the Demona I named..."
"You can't ask me to face it..."
"And you are nae help hiding in the shadows," MacBeth said bitterly. "I didna ASK for yer help, lass. And since ye see fit t' vex me wi' warnings, I see nae reason for yer to remain here unless ye have the express purpose o' helping."
"I suppose I deserved that," she said as she shrugged and looked small in her wings.
"Perhaps ye did," MacBeth said. "But that's YER problem. Leave me t' handle things ma ain way, unless ye intend to help..."
Firming her chin, she wiped away tears. He was right, even though he was being harsh and bitter. The ache closed around her heart, and she knew what she had to do. Increase the distance between them. In that simple way she could help keep from distracting him regarding the pain of her transformation. "MacBeth," she said finally.
"Yes?" he asked turning slightly from where he was looking.
"I am sorry," she said.
"Tis little help," he said firmly.
"I want to help you, but..."
"But WHAT? Have ye lost the desire t' survive to protect yer clan?" MacBeth snapped. "If this is the change that brought about our allegiance perhaps it'd be far better we remained enemies! The Demona in this universe is a ruthless cruel demon, but she cares enough to fight fer what she believes in, no matter how twisted. Her own species survival. Ye've run away..."
"Don't say that... you have no right..." Lina gasped, feeling anger boil up in her.
"I will not remain silent on this issue. Unless ye leave now and trouble me nae more," MacBeth snarled. "Get oot of ma house and let me do what I will! Save me yer useless defeatist prattle... and go hide!"
"You have NO idea!" she snarled. "What I faced... how DARE you..."
"NAE how DARE ye! Yer a coward! Nae worthy t' stand in my presence woman... begone with ye now before I throw ye out!"
"Why you insolent... self-righteous..." she snarled, her eyes flaring red as she leapt to her feet. "How DARE you..."
"Go on, away with ye!" MacBeth taunted. He saw the fangs bared and the hair fluffed out as she snarled and leapt on him with her claws out. He let her knock him down and dig her claws into his armor, as he looked up at her steely and defiant. For a moment she wanted to tear his throat out, but he didn't fight back.
"You have NO place to say these things!" she snarled. "NO Place!"
"Indeed I do, since were' linked again," MacBeth said in a low tone. "Unless ye want to end it now. Either way, tis yer choice. Go ahead and strike me down. End it fer all time if ye have the courage. Otherwise, get out of my sight. Or make a damn choice..."
Her crimson rage faded, and Lina's eyes widened as she released MacBeth. She leapt off him, retreated as if he'd slapped her. Glancing down at her crooked talons she shuddered, huddling in a corner. Her whole body quaked, and she began to cry. "You... you did that deliberately, making me angry... so I'd fight you..." she sniffled.
MacBeth let a small smile twist the corners of his lips. "And ye have the gall t' claim ye have no stomach t' fight? I'd say there was a bit of the fire still left within ye yet..."
Realization dawned, and she put her hands to her head, weeping. "God, you are so cruel... you can't..."
"What does it matter?" MacBeth asked coldly as he rose to his feet. "What I think. Obviously it doesn't t' ye."
"IT does matter," she said as she wiped at her tears. "You son of a bitch..."
"Now THAT's the Demona I know, the one I named," MacBeth said as he glanced down at her tear stained face. He crouched by her, and she faced him, her eyes flaring crimson.
"What do you want me to do?" she asked plaintively.
"Make a choice, lass," MacBeth said softly. He held out a hand to her, and she put her talon around his. Shakily she stood with his aid and looked at him with fear and anger mingled on her features.
"Even if I do tell you, there's no guarantee that it will make a difference," she sniffled. "I don't want you to die knowing that I was the cause..."
"Not deciding is a choice as well," MacBeth sighed.
"I know that... I just forgot how well you knew me..." she trailed off as she kept his hand around hers. "Just like my MacBeth... the one in my universe. Filled with fire and fight like the king you still are... you've got a terrible fight ahead..."
"And will it make a difference if the Demona in this time shuild join me or no?" MacBeth asked.
"I can't say," she sighed. "All I know is I have a choice. To stay here and help you, or to go back to my universe... I just don't know if I can... and now that we are linked..."
"There's only one being, or three that can help determine that," MacBeth said gravely. "They claimed they are responsible and I doubt the Weird sisters of yer world wanted this to happen. They said that we would destroy one another. They do not like it when others tamper with their spells... I think they would favor whatever decision ye make, providing it is out of preservation... if it benefits them. If humanity were destroyed, there is no fate for them to perturb..."
"Are you suggesting that I use the phoenix gate, or ask Ray...?" she asked.
"Only way you can determine that is by asking," said MacBeth. "Either way, tis far better than skulking in shadow regretting yer past..."
"You are a fool," she said with a sad smile as she embraced him, and held him close. "But you are right as ever. I have made a choice. And it's time I acted upon it. Time I took control..."
"Then do it," MacBeth nodded. He kissed her forehead and released her as she let go. Understanding passed between them, and with a flutter of wings and a thud of steps she was gone.
MacBeth sighed, and then exited the room. He strode along the way till he entered the shooting gallery and saw his protégées working to perfect their skills. Lucia seemed angry, vexed by her lack of proficiency. MacBeth held a finger to his lips as he moved up behind her, and Keith spotted him. Unaware, she aimed again at the target, while the immortal stood behind her.
"Shit," she muttered.
"Relax yerself," MacBeth urged, reaching around her so his hand was atop hers. "Ye are far too tight in the wrists... stand wi yer feet apart... I thought ye'd said ye'd shot a gun before..."
"Caramba!" she cried, almost dropping the gun. MacBeth held her close to his back and took the gun from her hand before she could cause an accident.
"Anything can happen," he said with a chuckle. "Now, do ye want my help or no..."
"Isn't that... being partial?"
"Shaddup and let him help ya," Carlos muttered. "And let us get back to work..."
"I should be able to..." she muttered but MacBeth stood so his arms were positioned around her body.
"Let me help... ye close the one hand around the handle as this, and hold it up to aim. Yer letting yer wrists lock because ye're forgetting it's a gun as the same as those ye are familiar with. Same principle though it shoots electricity..."
"Yes," she nodded. "How foolish of me..."
"Now... set the charge wi' yer thumb, like on an automatic. Take a breath, aim, and let it go..."
Lucia did so, and felt herself slam into his chest as she neglected to account for the kickback. It seemed so easy when he did it. "Crap," she muttered.
"Two handed or one..." he said as he held it up, and motioned for her to stand beside him. "This be one handed, ye make a solid line, stand with one foot before the other, and let yer body arch to take the brunt. Follow through and let it push back, but hold yer ground. Tis a kickback for such a small weapon..."
It seemed so easy as he aimed and fired. His tall body flared white hot as the lightning arc hissed and singed the target fifty yards distant. She saw his knees were bent, and how he let his hand move in the traditional follow through with a twist. It was a subtle arching of his chest and shoulders, so he absorbed the shock. Of course, widen the base and change your center of gravity. Turning he saw her hand reaching for the gun. Saying nothing he saw her stand in the pose, and nodded as he crossed his arms. She noticed the strange and distinctive armor gleaming under his long black coat. Red lining contrasted well with the black, and she diverted her attention to the feel of the weapon. A second later and it was done, and she was still standing albeit a bit shakily.
"Much better," he nodded. "Only way to learn is by doing..."
She smiled with some satisfaction while MacBeth moved down the line and inspected the stances of everyone shooting. Carlos swung hard while the immortal wasn't looking, and MacBeth whirled, to grab the end of his staff, and twist it around. He knocked the teen on his backside. Carlos rolled over and pushed up against MacBeth's knee to wrestle it back.
"Not bad, but still rough," MacBeth grunted. "Keep practicing..."
"Whatever you say sir," Carlos panted, letting the mentor help him up. Keith and Sharon glanced at their watches, and then to MacBeth. He nodded, and both set down their weapons to quickly rush out to the changing room. Bill Yale returned to his shooting, and Carlos tapped him on the shoulder. Nodding, he grabbed the staff that MacBeth tossed him and both of them walked in the direction of the gym.
That left Lucia alone, firing at the targets with greater skill. MacBeth admired how the armor flattered her body, its sleek black lines contouring every curve. He knew the reason for everyone' exit varied. Sharon and Keith had a class, Bill and Carlos often sparred, then ate dinner. Both of them saw his reason and silent nod. It was clear what the relationship between the professor and his last student was.
"Time t' stop, and break fer dinner, lass," MacBeth said firmly. Lucia didn't move from where she was firing.
"Just a moment... I've almost got this..."
"Tis laudable yer dedication, but yer aim will suffer if yer brain is muddle with hunger," MacBeth said as he wandered over and stood discreetly behind her.
"I just want to improve... I know I can..." she said as she loosed off a last shot. However she had forgotten to stand, and MacBeth anticipated her body flying back to knock off balance.
"Indeed ye are," he reassured her as she turned around and found his arms around her. "But tis a time t' fight and a time to take repast. And yer auntie will be very annoyed with me if I dinnae take proper care of her favorite niece..."
"I don't want to have special treatment, really," she said firmly.
"There's no denying I canne promise that, while we're alone," he said with a forgiving smile. "And tis all right considering the complexity of the situation..."
"You're so not fair," she chuckled, and he took the lightening gun from her fingers, slipping it into the holster at her hip. His fingers were gloved and she didn't feel but shivered all the same. Still he towered over her, his height and mass increased by his armor. It was the modern day equivalent of the nights of old. Her friends had similar designs, but she guessed hers was closest to a custom fit like his, while the others were what remained from his hired help.
"I know," he nodded. "And what pray tell are ye going t' do about it, eh?"
"King's privilege, Senior?" she teased back, liking the feel of his arms around her. Oddly though they could not touch one another this heightened the sudden bolt of desire flooding her body. He must have noticed too because he pulled her quickly to him, and her hips close to his as he kissed her firmly. Powerful hands boosted her up and set her on the ledge of the shooting ally. Parting her thighs he moved between them and pressed his armored body close to hers. She panted deeply seeing the gleam in his eyes that had shifted from commander to intimate hunger for her and her alone. It was sobering and staggering to know that he remembered their relationship so easily while training.
"One ye've fair earned, and would do yerself good to avail yerself of more often," he whispered. She caught his lips again in a kiss, and moaned as he pressed closer to her so their bodies were pressed tightly. Only the armor separated them, and he repositioned her arms so they were around his shoulders and her head was tilted to one side so he could maximize the sweetness of their kiss. For centuries MacBeth had honed the perfect way to kiss a woman, so that she felt the desire creep over her as it continued and deepened. How could one so experienced find pleasure in one so inexperienced, she momentarily doubted. However, she knew the answer, and reassured herself that she had made her feelings known before, and they were reciprocated not out of pity, but out of genuine attraction.
"Lennox," she moaned as he broke the kiss for breath.
"Lucia,' he muttered, his eyes dark with desire. Fingers tangled in her hair, and his breath heaved against her, fanning her ear with it heat.
"Here?" she chuckled.
"Someplace more... discreet perhaps," he whispered. Simultaneously MacBeth boosted her up in his arms and sealed off her next words with his mouth on hers. Armor pressed to armor, and Lucia felt her desire awakening. All shivering fears were replaced with shivering of what happened between a man and woman this close. Under her breastplate pounded her heart and she gasped for breath giddily as MacBeth released her lips from his. Dios she wanted him to continue, and her skin crawled feeling the armor was far too tight for her body now. Easily he boosted her up and carried her with his hands on her hips towards the spa. Entering, he carried her toward one of the massage tables. Setting her down, he cast her a suggestive glance, and she smiled her assent. She sighed as he pressed her down, and then kissed her, leaning over her. Gliding hands over her body; he removed a few pieces of her armor, and let them drop on the floor. When she wore the body suit underneath, he whispered something into her ear. It was maddening and exciting because she couldn't touch him, but he could touch her.
"I know, but I AM a bit worried..." she muttered, almost wishing he hadn't heard because it seemed trivial.
"Trust me, tis not a hazard to ye,' he whispered against her lips. Her body, clad only in the body stocking underneath, pressed against his hard armored one, and she felt the difference and her skin crawling. He gently caressed her, covering her with soft kisses that increased in vigor. His nose nuzzled her neck, and she moaned, seizing his ear as she did what he wanted. Likewise, MacBeth knew what she wanted, and complied as he pulled her closely to him.
MacBeth felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand on end, and he turned to gently pull Lucia to his hips again.
"Are ye all right, love?" he whispered, caressing her scalp.
"Dios, did you feel something... weird?"
"Mmm, if I did, it shouldna matter, but it may be better to take this someplace much more private," MacBeth said, realizing something HAD happened. His skin prickled with the shivering shards of icy time, and he knew it involved something basic. However, he didn't want to frighten Lucia, so he shook it aside. He hated interruptions, and it had been longer than he wished between times of lovemaking.
Pieces of his armor had fallen to the floor besides hers. He handed her his coat so she could throw it around herself in lieu of a robe, while he gathered them up and stowed them into a bag nearby. Lucia made to climb off the table, but he waved her off with a smile, letting her know that he could handle things. There were few men who were so attenuated to a woman's needs for modesty. MacBeth wanted her to be able to control when and how her body was to be viewed by him, because Cesar had taken that right away from her.
When he was done, he turned to her and picked her up. Slinging her over one broad shoulder and walking easily with her weight supported on his body. With his free hand he grabbed the bag with his armor and hers, then strode out the door quickly.
"You don't have to carry me around," she laughed.
"Yes I do," he countered. "I suggest ye enjoy it, because it's not every day that I have such a privilege of carrying his lovely lady to her chambers ..."
The female gargoyle moved into view, her wings caped as she wiped sweat from her brow. A small smile came over her face, and she knew the other benefit of their shared bond at such proximity. Although she missed her mate Brooklyn, Lina could at least experience the warmth second hand. All his joys and happiness became hers, and she saw the source of his strength.
"Kinda poetic, huh?" said Keith, and she turned to glance at him.
"We all should be so fortunate," Lina nodded sadly. "I trust you and Sharon have found such happiness..."
"Hey, we try," Keith grinned. "Apart from her preferences..."
"Such things are trivial in the grand scheme..." Lina nodded, glancing wistfully up the stairs.
"Um, I meant to ask you, Lina... it's a personal question..."
"There are few things I'd hide from you," she laughed deeply. "What do you wish to know?"
"Did you and Mac ever... you know..." he raised an eyebrow. "I know you guys feel each other's pain and all... but does the same thing apply to um..."
"Sex?" she said, and Keith flushed. "Don't look so shocked... you have such open talk of things in this time..."
"Um yeah but um... you're well... um..."
"The answer to your first question is yes," she said. "Back when I played a nasty trick on him... when we were married..."
"Married?" Keith almost choked.
"It was a plot to gain MacBeth's wealth," Lina said, not looking directly at Keith. "Unfortunately I realize looking back how mean spirited it was. Another way I tried to punish him for..."
"Shit, sorry," Keith said. He leaned over and kissed her cheek. Lina smiled and touched her face where he'd done so.
"It's kind of you, but unnecessary," she said wistfully. "I'm used to being alone."
"So was he," Keith pointed up the stairs. "And um, you ARE together till death do you part..."
"In an odd way, yes," Lina shrugged, and smiled sadly. The one constant in the crazy world had been her bond with MacBeth. Always a score to settle, the driving force that kept her going was hate. Now he'd reminded her of this, but it dawned on her he'd done it out of concern for her, and great respect for what might have been in some eerie way.
Leaning forwards she returned Keith's kiss, and walked out of the hallway into the main chamber of MacBeth's estate. He'd made it clear what her choice was, and she wondered if she wanted to stay anywhere else. Chavez said she'd always have a place, and yet Demona remembered when she had come here in the other lifetime, to settle the score. Her lips still felt the kiss that he'd given her before she'd fought Xanatos.
"You are a fool, Demona," she whispered to herself, and cursed again her choices. To stay or go, or perhaps find some way to help. Then her memory flickered, and she walked up the stairs quickly, then ran on all fours in her gargoyle form to the door at the top of the third level, covered in gilt.
"It must still be there, if this is the same," she nodded. Slowly Lina opened the door, and saw the object standing near a wall. A tarp was draped over, and she swallowed at the realization. Why had he ended up with Titania's mirror? She knew the answer. Because that PUCK had given it to him.
"For such a purpose," Lina said as she strode forth, and picked up a piece of chalk. She began to draw lines around the mirror, and hunted for whatever items she could lay her hands on. The pattern was set, and painfully familiar, and she had to do something. MacBeth had to live, he just had to. Not out of a selfish need, but out of guilt for interrupting what could have been a normal end?
Whisking off the cloth, Lina stared into the surface, seeing herself as she was. She hadn't practiced sorcery in ages, but the words of power came to her lips. Carefully she examined the room, and found the items she knew MacBeth had there. All his magical trinkets and sorcery items he kept up here, and she saw his protective wards so the magics would not cross contaminate. She lit a candle, and then ignited the brazier. Then she dropped piles of colored white pebbles at the focal points of the pentagram. Next came silver and gold, and she found a silver goblet. Reaching up she slid off the gold armlet that she still had from centuries, and held it up.
Words she wrestled to her lips, and spit them out in her melodic voice. Would he come? She began to chant the spell to summon, even with the feather blown towards the mirror. Rippling like water it moved, and there came a whoosh of energy that blasted her.
"Well, long time no see... but you are not what you appear to be, are you..." Puck said, looking somewhat amused, and somewhat perturbed.
"You know that I'm not the Demona you know," said Lina. "And I want to start by apologizing for..."
"Spare me, toots," Puck laughed as he zipped around the mirror, and then sat on top to peer down at her. "Wipe that frown off your face already. You're bumming ME out! So... what'll it be... out with it..."
"I suppose you already know what's transpired," Lina said as she glanced up at Puck.
"That's obvious by now... so what's weighting on your mind? Feeling survivor's guilt? You wanna go back or something?"
"I'd like to play a game, actually," Lina said with a smile. Puck's eyes widened, and he smiled as well.
"Now THAT proves you aren't the same garg babe," Puck shook his head. "Lay it on me... twenty questions, yes or no, no animal vegetable or mineral..."
"That would be the rules. My first question to you is, is it possible to return to my universe using your magic?"
"Nope, and yes," Puck said. "Depends on what you mean by YOUR universe..."
"If yes, is it possible to return to a time before I left..."
"Yeppers," he said.
"And if so, could I control the time of my arrival, counting from the time of my immanent departure?" she asked, feeling impatient.
"Depends," Puck said as he orbited both the mirror and her, before floating over her left shoulder. "Time's not exactly my specialty..."
"Could I somehow ask a boon perhaps... of them..." Lina trailed off.
"Oooohooo are you SURE you want to bring them in, toots?" Puck asked.
"I hate it when you answer a question with a question," she mumbled. "Look, I know that the reason you said no was because you cannot use your magic directly. Can you teach Alex the spell to return me..."
"Um let me see... nope, not NOW anyway," Puck said. "Depends on if you like waiting. And considering YOU'RE the lucky one tied to Kingey, you'll have lots of practice..."
"Could the gargoyle Rayna perhaps assist me?"
"Um, maybe," Puck said. "You've got fifteen left."
"Could the technology exist right now, in our present day, to send me back... a matter transporter..."
"Two questions in one, buzz. You lose all your questions, sweetstuff," Puck teased. "But good game. For your sport and attempt I'll toss you a bone. Your buddy Ray is a step on the right path, but question is, do you want to go back?"
"I do, if it will save MacBeth," Lina said firmly.
"Umm, are you SURE?" Puck asked as he whispered in her ear. "Think about it... you're linked to him... and the other Demona in this world isn't... so there IS an advantage here. Just think of what you could do... if things were different..."
"But this is not my universe. I am hiding here when I could be of use there..." Lina said. "I know if I try to change the past, it is immutable. Yet this is another world where the pattern is set, but because I'm external, I might make a change where I could not..."
"Aren't we bold," Puck chuckled. "Well, I'd definitely put my money on the Time Lord, since you were the one who zapped her into what she is. You don't need MY blessing for this, sweetie. But then again, maybe it'd be better if you didn't do anything."
"Isn't it always that way?" she sighed, closing her eyes as she felt a low growl come from her throat. "All right Puck, you may go..."
"Ciau," he waved. "And um, next time, tell ol' man Mac that he needs to dust the mirror once in a while? I can't tell if I have dandruff or not..."
They wandered through the house, MacBeth still bare chested with a towel hanging round his neck, with Lucia slung over one shoulder wearing his long black coat. Smiles and hushed giggles were shared between them, and he could swear he felt centuries younger. "I'm a right cradle robber," he muttered to himself. "Going through a midlife crisis... that's how they'll see it... but to hell with 'em. If it be centuries past would not be frowned upon..."
"No
it wouldn't," Lina said as she saw MacBeth carrying Lucia up the
stairs. She shrieked with laughter, and it was a welcome sound to the
museum of a house. MacBeth turned and stopped, seeing Lina there. His
eyes gleamed with questions as he faced her.
Lucia glanced from
behind him, and sensed the tension crackling between the two. Lina's
pupils were dilated, and she appeared to glow as MacBeth was now
doing. Grey blue eyes met hers, and he said, "You're still here
I see..."
"Yes," she nodded. "I'm sorry if I'm interrupting something..."
"The mirror," MacBeth said quietly, and set Lucia down. "Why don't ye hurry on to our room, and I'll join ye soon..."
"No, I want to hear what she has to say, Lennox," Lucia protested as he pushed her cautiously behind him. "If I'm sharing your life I need to know..."
"She is right, MacBeth," Lina said quickly. "If she's to be your wife, she's entitled to know what's happened... because it affects you both, or could..."
"Ye summoned puck, I trust," MacBeth said warily, drawing Lucia to his side. She clutched the ends of his coat around her, and met Lina's gaze with apprehension. What caught her eyes was the crucifix that dangled around the gargoyle neck, and she increased her grip on MacBeth. Protectively his grip increased on her as well.
"Your words were not wasted," Lina said clearly. "And I need to know what you want.... What you think should be best... because of the bond we now share..."
"Rather generous of you to ask first," he said.
"Lennox please... she's trying to help..."
"Hush love, if yer to watch, then let me speak to her openly, and plainly," MacBeth urged.
"You're right to do what you did, and I suppose I am a coward. Help me now, to best help you... in the words of Jerry McGuire..."
"If you say ye had me at hello, I'll be very cross," MacBeth muttered, and Lucia groaned at his dour humor. "So, I'm right. What have ye decided?"
"If I stay, your immortality is linked to mine. I'd be an ally, not an enemy, and your fate would be linked to mine. The outcome would be positive... but if I were to leave, there is no telling what could happen. Perhaps it would be best, because you could live out the rest of your days with the woman you love..."
Lucia blushed, and MacBeth's eyes narrowed. "You would do such a thing... to benefit me? Would that be the right or the wrong thing to do?"
"Your immortality would serve to insure that you and I will survive to thwart whatever evil," Lina said. "But the chance of you living a normal life... don't you see why it's up to you?"
"Wait..." Lucia said quickly. "Can I say something?"
"She's your love," Lina said. "She's part of this decision."
MacBeth sighed. "Ye are right. Lucia, what would ye have me do? Have the chance to live the rest of my years with ye, and perhaps be able to do what a husband should? Is it true that I have a son... in that other reality?"
"Yes, it is," she said with a half smile. "And I have a daughter..."
"Whist ye," MacBeth's jaw dropped. "Tis possible? But in that reality ye and I were immortal!"
"I know it seems farfetched, but it did happen... but I'm not sure if I should say any more," Lina said with a shake of her head.
"Lina, you mean he and I... I mean I'm going to have a son... and it's possible even if you're both immortal?"
"Yes... but that is my universe. Here, I can't say that it wold be any better..."
"But it is differe4nt. You're here. And by your being here..." MacBeth trailed off.
"I could damn the world if I leave it, and if I stay..." she trailed off.
"What would the weird sisters think about this?" Lucia asked. Both looked at her, knowing she was right.
"Tis something that I had overlooked," MacBeth muttered bitterly.
"I know," said Lina. "Would I be allowed to return? Because the other choice depends on whether or not I can return to my world, and perhaps stop this from happening..."
"If such a thing were possible..." MacBeth trailed off. "I cannot say which choice would be better. Seeing as your world there was destruction..."
"But the Demona of your world would never have the chance to be redeemed," Lina said softly. "As long as I am here, I make that chance impossible. And that was the one thing that kept hope alive. I may sound arrogant, but it was the bond that we shared, that showed me that I could change... and if there is any chance that Angela..."
She snapped shut her eyes, and tears flowed as she glanced away. Something arose in her, because she felt fear, and Lucia felt MacBeth's body tensing. Both of them locked eyes, and then MacBeth pushed her gently away. "Whist ye... do you feel that?"
"Yes... after so long..."
"What?" Lucia asked.
"Ye shouldna be here, my love... I don't want anything to happen to ye..." MacBeth choked. "Please trust me on this... ye must leave and not return till I come to get you... I dinna want ye to see me like..."
"Like what?"
"Please girl, do it," Lina said quickly. Lucia backed away, feeling the building up of something that buzzed inside her head, and made her heart pound. The wind inside the house wuthered, and whistled, whipping MacBeth's and Lina's hair about their faces. They seemed to draw together, till they were back to back, like opposite poles of a magnet.
"Run!" MacBeth shouted. Lucia dashed away, cursing herself for obeying him, but knew that tone of voice was not to be questioned.
Still she hid behind the door, hearing the loud quickening wind, and the shouts coming from MacBeth and Lina. Something tore at her, and she couldn't help but want to know what it was, and what it involved. Creeping on tiptoes she walked out, seeing the flash of blinding silver radiance blazing through the door cracks.
She crept out, moving along the wall painted in firey liquid silver and gold. Everything blazed brighter than the sun, and she heard three voices in unison echoing, full of power and timeless age. Peering around the wall she saw the source. Or rather sources.
"You have remained here ere long," said the first, her gold molten locks falling around her shoulders.
"Time screams its wounded breath across the strings of fate," said the fire haired sister in the middle, her eyes blazing green as emeralds.
"Tis not for you to judge the balance of fate, lost daughter of the Hecate," said the ebon haired one, who was on the far right. All three levitated in the radiance of gleaming silver that dimmed to a level Lucia could stand to gaze upon. MacBeth writhed in the eldritch fire; his back to Lina's as they were lifted in the triple spiral that swirled around them. They were caught, trapped and unable to move in the face of the power that ensnared them.
"What do you want of me?" MacBeth almost shouted.
"The question is, what does SHE want of you, or herself," answered Phoebe.
Luna said, "Your presence was known to us, but is a danger to this world."
"Every moment you remain, you seek to destroy what you came to save," Selene chimed in, with the same voice.
"It wasn't my choice!" Lina cried.
"Choice or no choice, you are here now," said Luna.
"And you must ere depart, for it is not your place," said Selene.
"For you to decide what must be," said Phoebe.
"The bond betwixt you is renewed," said Luna.
"And there is cause for this to be so. You are but opposite poles of a magnet..."
"Essential to this worlds life and limb," said the third. "You are as ever our children..."
"Ever and eternal bound, as one," said Luna. "And what you seek, you will find..."
"We see the pattern you have set, will be necessary..."
"But only by your absence can it play out," said Selene.
"We grant you a boon, a reward for services rendered," said Luna.
"What do you mean..." trailed off Lina.
"You must leave... and return whence you came..." said Selene.
"And the door of Fate will carry you there..." said Luna.
"For the threads of order must be kept 'ere from fraying..."
"You do not belong to this world, child," said Luna.
"Then I must go back... but what of MacBeth..."
"You know the answer," said Selene. Three sisters raised their fingers, and a sphere of light widened. The door to Titania's mirror opened and there came a jerking tug. MacBeth felt Lina pushing against him instead of pulling, and she shot forwards.
"What are ye doing to her?" MacBeth shouted.
"You should not ask, for it is not in your hands," said the three together.
"What was rent asunder shall be healed
For the other world's fate be sealed
Broken threads of shimmering fate
We return your daughter as of late
That she may by her presence fair
Return her realm to time repair
Fourscore and twenty hours before
To stop the metal one from his score...
Traverse the walls of time and space
And be forever within your place!"
"No! You can't do this!" came a loud voice. The sisters turned, and heard a loud ringing sound that came from a geological hammer tapped on a steel plate. Screaming they put their hands over their ears. Lina and MacBeth dropped to the floor, gasping as the eldritch fire ceased.
Lucia saw a green skinned gargoyle standing there holding the items, her eyes dark with anger. She approached, holding the ice axe before her like a totem. All three sisters held their hands before their faces as the gargoyle strode up, and faced them. "Who are you to interfere... cease now!" Luna gasped, her beauty withering to a sick green.
"They're lying to you," Ray said firmly as she paced a half circle around the sisters, and then moved to stand between Lina and the weird ones. "They aren't going to send you back..."
"How can you..." got out Lina.
"How were we wrong," MacBeth muttered as he saw Rayna's imperious glance.
"Simple. Your universe no longer exists. The explosion created by Lex destroyed it. If you go back, you go to your oblivion."
"You know nothing," hissed Phoebe.
"I beg to differ. You're not the ONLY beings capable of time bending. You don't' want to take this up with the Madam President and the HIGH COUNCIL of Gallifrey do you?" Ray said firmly, light flashing off the geological hammer. Even its reflection could cause them pain, for they each held their hands before their faces as she beamed the light in their path.
"So... what are ye trying to say, Ray?" MacBeth asked, moving back towards where Lucia was standing by the wall, shivering in fear.
"That they have NO intention of any benevolent action," Ray said. "Lina, you must deny them. Deny what they are about to do. If you deny them authority over you, they cannot win..."
"You have no authority here, Time Lady, you relinquished your role... when you changed your shape!" Luna pointed a warted finger at her.
"Shut up," Ray hissed, her eyes flaring crimson. "Lina, MacBeth, they've been using you for too long. You have the power to resist them. They promised to Goliath that they would release you from their spell. They renigged, and for that, they could get into LOTS of trouble if Big Daddy Oberon hears of this..."
"You wouldn't dare... mortal," said Phoebe.
"You wanna take me up on it?" Ray smirked. MacBeth blinked, and Lina slowly smiled in understanding.
"Yes, of course," Lina nodded, and then something fell into place. All the times when she was on Earth, and the fae were in exile, Ray did have some run ins with them.
"Beltane, 700 years ago. Before I met you, MacBeth," Ray smiled. MacBeth's eyes widened. However he knew better than to ask, because she'd tell him in due time.
"Enough of this idle prattle. This concerns her, not you," Luna broke in, pointing to Lina. "Even if you COULD interfere, this is NOT your place to say..."
"That's the point. Why don't you ask Lina here if she wants to go back?" Ray said firmly, hands on her hips. "What do YOU want, Lina?"
"She knows not of what she speaks..." Phoebe said quickly, appealing to Lina. "We can send you home...she's trying to distract you. Can you not see we only want to help you?"
"I was wrong to suggest this," MacBeth muttered, as Lucia glanced anxiously at him. "Ray, are ye sure tat they are..."
"Have they ever been honest with you?" Ray asked.
"Enough of this. We offer you a choice. You may return and have the chance to save your universe..." said Phoebe. "Let us send you home... and you can right the wrongs..."
Lina let Ray help her up, and then glanced at MacBeth. The Weird sisters drifted back as Ray still held her ice axe up before them. As long as they were in proximity, it could cause pain. However, could she trust this chance that was too good to be true?
"My home is here, now," Lina said as she faced the sisters.
"But you could at least see your loved ones again, say farewell," Phoebe implored, her eyes blue and bright. "Think of it as a reward for all the services we've asked of you..."
"No. I'm home."
"You see, she's made up her mind," said Ray.
"You will stay under our enchantment, if you stay," said the three together. "Be warned..."
"I thank ye to leave ma house now," MacBeth said firmly. "Yer no invited here... go mess up someone else's life..."
"Leave us, leave me alone," Lina said angrily. "I have no need for your help..."
Lucia glanced at the three, and they seemed troubled as Ray stepped forwards with her geological hammer, poised to strike the metal plate in her hand. "You want another recitation? I can do an encore... maybe the anvil chorus..."
Another series of sharp taps produced sharp rings, and the sisters wailed in pain. Clutching their ears they retreated towards Titania's mirror. Lina stood up, and backed over to stand by MacBeth and Lucia. Ray moved between the two, and the three, and stood firm and fast, her wings spread to their full span. The three gasped, their voices pleading for mercy.
"Enough, we hear," said Luna.
"Your point is made, so is her choice..." said Phoebe.
"We will ere depart... but not before one last word..."
"Say it and go hence," MacBeth barked.
"Despair not, for your service will be rewarded," the three said. "You will see the passing of the next generation and she whom we have returned will be at your side in the times to come..."
Lucia shivered, seeing the eyes that burned through the walls with some x-ray vision. They looked directly at her, and the expression told her they knew she was there. A siren song compelled her to move close, and MacBeth shouted his protest. Legs moved of their own accord, no movement was of her choice. Only to walk, heart pounding in fear towards the three fates.
"Little one, the torch will pass ere long," said the silver haired fate.
"And you must be ever strong..." said the blonde.
"That future which you within you carry..."
"Will be for the greater light, extraordinary..."
"Not her, don't mix her up in this..." MacBeth shouted.
"She is already part of the warp and woof," they said together. "For light is balanced by dark, and both shall meet in the middle of chaos, to start anew..."
"Ye will not mix her up! Go!' MacBeth shouted. Ray raised her hammer, but as she was about to strike, a blinding radiance shot forth. There came a blast of wind, and something reached to pull them back through the interface of the deep depths of fluid time. Through the doorway of Titania's mirror they stepped, and were swallowed.
Lucia hugged MacBeth tightly, and looked up at him with questions in her eyes. Lina turned, and looked gratefully at Ray. "How did you know... how can you be sure?"
"She would know," MacBeth answered. "Of all, she's one that I've come to trust, in the centuries..."
"It is simple, Lina," said Ray as she saw the tears forming in the dark eyes. As she stepped forwards she brushed Lina's scarlet locks from her face.
"You said my universe was destroyed, is that true?" Lina asked.
"Yes," said Ray with a nod. "You survived because you were disassembled in the moment..."
"I knew, but I didn't want to believe," Lina closed her eyes.
"It's as if your world never existed," said Ray, stroking her cheek. "So you have to stay."
"So, if they sent me back, there would be no place for me to go, except to my death..." Lina shivered, and she caught Ray's arms and squeezed, tears dripping to the carpeted floor under her toes. "God..."
"I'm sorry, I didna know," MacBeth sighed. "I shuildna put it up to ye..."
"It's all right... you were right. I can't just sit back and do nothing. I have to fight here and now. To save this world from the fate mine faced. And I promise I will. But in my own way, MacBeth. I'll help by telling whatever I know... but I need to think of a plan..."
"Ye... are welcome t' remain here..." MacBeth started.
"No, I think you deserve some time without pain," Lina's lip twitched. "I am going home... where I've been offered a place..."
"I'll be happy to fly back with you to Chavez's, if that's where you're going..."
"Yes Ray, let's go home, to Ria," said Lina with a smile. Turning to MacBeth and Lucia she winked.
"Will you be okay?" Lucia asked.
"I'll be fine... in time," said Lina as she walked over and gave Lucia a hug. MacBeth offered his hand, and shook it. She kissed his cheek, and stepped back. Ray held out her talon, and Lina took it. Both females left the couple in the hall together.
Turning to Lucia, MacBeth said, "Let's go to bed, lass..."
"Best idea you've had all day, senior," Lucia smiled. She shrieked as he lifted her up in his arms and carried her towards the bedroom.
Keith and Sharon happened to be walking by when they saw their professor dashing up the stairs with his cargo. The black raincoat swathing Lucia was unmistakably his, and they exchanged a glance that made them both chuckle.
"Private training?" Keith snickered.
"Why the hell not... which reminds me..." Sharon said as she pulled him along after her. "He's got at least a half dozen bedrooms here... and since it IS late, I don't think he'd want us to let 'em go to waste..."
"Shar, you're a nut... we should get back..."
"Mac wouldn't let us," she whispered as she tugged him up the stairs to the second level. Keith glanced around as if missing something. A sense of déjà vu, perhaps"
However her soon forgot it as Sharon kicked open a door, and led him inside, with a grin. He let her draw him into her arms, for a heated kiss. Mouths merged and they tumbled about in an endless embrace to land on the sizable queen in the center of the room.
In the next room over, in the master suite, Lucia gasped with breathless laughter as she felt MacBeth's weight press her into the soft sheets. A distant moaning and screaming underlined what they themselves were about to do.
Both remained silent, glancing at one another with questions. MacBeth pulled the covers around them, and both turned on their sides to glance with a knowing chuckle.
"I think someone's using the guestroom..." Lucia giggled.
"I'd wondered when they'd get around to proclaiming their affections for one another," MacBeth muttered, and then returned his attention to Lucia, who seemed surprised at his answer.
"You mean you don't mind?"
"Why should I mind two consenting adults performing what comes naturally betwixt man and woman in my home?" he smirked.
"I'm surprised at you, with that dirty mind all along and I never knew it," Lucia giggled. "You've been so holding out on me senior...."
"Who's holding out on whom?" MacBeth teased, tickling her all over till she shrieked.
"Caramba, I can't breathe... no fair!" she laughed. "I thought you were more... old fashioned... honorable..."
"There is a difference in this case. Especially when they're as good as married and will be soon... if I have anything to say about it. And you can be assured that the matter in present company will soon be addressed..."
"You don't have to..." she trailed off.
"Speaking of, I haven't even begun to remedy that situation where present company is involved," MacBeth lifted an eyebrow. Distracting her with a kiss, he ran his hands up and down her body.
"Sweet," she smiled, pulling him down to her. "Don't pull away, I love that... this..."
"So do I, my love," he whispered back, sighing deeply with satisfaction that he'd brought her. Deeply inside the throws of lovemaking, he let her decide what she needed from him next. As often as she wished and whenever she wished it he'd care for her needs.
"Lennox," she sighed as he lifted his head from her shoulder. He'd remained still, allowing her to feel his stiffness and moved slightly.
"If it were anybody else... I'd have so killed him because I want this so often at one time," she muttered with fear.
"Indeed, but I am no ordinary man," he smirked, and she chuckled as she hugged him tightly. "And I have been most negligent in my duty regarding this subject."
"Gracias, Senior," she sighed.
"Tis too much fer ye?" MacBeth whispered. "If you but say the word..."
"Not at all," she hummed. "I'm just tingling all over... I never thought it could feel so good... between a man and woman..."
"I'll easily be able t' provide what ye wish, in all matters that a proper man should prepare for his lady... and more... tis the benefit derived of my curse..." he reminded her.
"A curse that Lina shares... which reminds me, you were harsh to her..." Lucia said as she leaned up on one arm.
"To whom?" he asked.
"Lina. For someone who's been around for 1000 years, you've so had your 'duh' moments," she said with concern.
"I can't just accept..." he trailed off.
"Could you at least try?" Lucia asked. "for MY sake? She's got nobody... she's family now. Auntie Ria's practically adopted her."
"She has?" MacBeth asked, sitting up in bed and looking at her with surprise.
"Yes. So you'll have to get used to her," Lucia nodded.
"I suppose, I could try..." he said, looking rather guilty, but not wanting to admit in his stubborn pride that he was wrong.
"Ray will be a LOT worse than me," said Lucia. "She's going to verbally so kick your ass..."
"So ye are saying that what I may face in comparison with you will be ten times worse?" he asked.
"Either that, or I could make use of the five other guestrooms, and it IS pretty cold the last few nights... if you don't want to make an attempt to make it up with my 'cousin'..." Lucia trailed off as she turned away from him.
"I see your point..." he said slowly. "I will try... but it won't be easy..."
"Was it ever, senior?" she asked. For a time they lay apart, a black cloud having settled on their lovemaking.