Author's Note: Hiya everyone! Look it's another chapter. Now I kind of have to explain a lot of things right quick. I'm not sure if I listed the pairings but just be concerned about this. It is 1x2. Yes it is, or rather since this is a PG-13 fic, it's really 1+2. If I listed any other pairings please ignore them. The other pairings grow as the story goes along. (shrugs) That's all really. Here's a little reminder:
"blah"- Is Faninfir, translated or not.
blah- is the mind talkie thingy like what Wufei/Duo share
'blah'- would be thoughts
"blah"- would be spoken words.
That's all. Go read. Please enjoy.
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After Duo had run off, the four that were left behind all sat in silence around the dying fire. Three pair of eyes was set on the Fairy King who still seemed shocked at Duo's words. Of course, the only ones who knew what Duo had said were Quatre, Wufei and Heero himself. Trowa was still clueless and would remain that way unless someone decided to tell him what had happened. Heero's colbat eyes were staring blankly into the flames, eyebrows drawn together in a frown. He couldn't believe it. Duo had spoken to him in his own tongue. He knew exactly what he had said, knew what Heero had admitted. He pulled himself from his thoughts as Wufei stood to make his way beside him.
"My friend, don't let this trouble you.", Wufei said hoping to comfort him, "We'll go and look for him and then we'll talk about what was said here."
"What was said here?", Trowa asked, out of curiosity.
"Nothing of importance.", Wufei said, turning in the direction Duo had run off, "We should be more concerned in finding Duo."
The echoing caw of a raven's call alerted them to look off in the distance. Wufei's eyes narrowed at the sight of a dark figure flying across the night sky, heading away from the temple they had left hours earlier. Quatre would have asked what the Dragon Lord saw, but his eyes were drawn to Triton. The young man's face was written with confusion and his eyes reflected what he could only guess was betrayal. Was Triton going to betray them, or perhaps, was he the one who had been wronged? Then again, the boy also seemed to be listening intently to the echoes of the raven's caw. Quatre heard the boy gasp as his eyes widened in shock.
"What is it, Triton?", Quatre asked, "What's wrong?"
Triton only slowly shook his head before his green eyes connected with Quatre's blue.
"I know that cry.", he said in a low voice.
Heero stood from his seat and Wufei turned back to the young man, whose eyes traveled back and forth between them.
"What is it, boy?", Wufei asked impatiently.
Jade eyes looked to Heero, making the fairy freeze in his spot as he read the message in Triton's eyes before he could even speak it.
"Duo's in trouble."
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Duo was now bruised and battered from having to avoid the snapping jaw of the giant snake that was still persistent. He was also bleeding, thanks to the teeth that had nearly caught him by his right arm. He was able to pull free before he lost it but there was now a deep gash. He was tiring and it seemed as if the snake wouldn't tire anytime soon.
It was getting harder to move out of the way of danger. He was panting now to the point where his lungs ached. Sweat was pouring from his skin, as his shoulder throbbed endlessly. He stood keeping an eye on the snake that slowly danced in front of him. He was aware of this trick now, since he had almost lost his head because of it. The monster had a trance-inducing dance and it had caused Duo a bout of paralysis.
Luckily, he was able to snap out of it when he lost his balance and fell back onto his shoulder. Pain had shot through him and his body was able to spree from the oncoming mouth. Now he stood ready, making sure to focus his mind on actually escaping the next attempt the serpent made to swallow him whole.
It came quickly and he hadn't expected it. Though he was able to avoid being eaten, he wasn't able to move fast enough. As he escaped the snapping jaw, the snake turned its head to him and he was flung violently to the side. His back made a connection with a crumbling pillar and he cried out in agony as his shoulder gave a loud and sickening crack. If it had been only fractured before, it was now completely broken. He crumbled to the floor, panting in ragged breaths, an occasional whimper escaping his lips. He lifted himself painfully up from the floor as the snake's screech rang through his ear and he found himself staring down its throat.
What had happened next he hadn't expected. He was grabbed up from the floor, feeling himself being lifted and he looked down to find what had been about to swallow him was only the head of the snake. Heero, now splattered in the deep red of the creature's blood, flew in mid air with his sword unsheathed. His eyes stared blankly at the place where the snake had once been, unaware of its still wriggling body that lay under him. Duo watched in awe for the moment before the sudden pain of his shoulder shot through his body again. He was thankful that he was being held as a bout of dizziness overtook him.
Little one, are you alright?
"My shoulder.", it was all he was permitted to say as Wufei lowered them both to the ground.
He was then seated on a large piece of rubble so that a now worried Quatre could busy himself with healing his shoulder. Without hesitation, Quatre ripped away the already tattered tunic to reveal Duo's left shoulder.
"My gods.", the blond muttered underneath his breath, "It's a miracle it didn't break through the skin."
Duo felt when someone came up beside him and his violet eyes rose to meet him. He managed a small and pain stricken smile to Triton who looked down at him, a small hint of desperation in his eyes.
"You saw Remius here tonight, did you not?"
Duo slowly nodded, not sure if he could form words at the moment. He was slipping away from consciousness and his body was burning; something was wrong. He was growing weaker and his pain was fading; everything was fading.
"Is he responsible for this?", Trowa asked, watching Duo's eyes close.
"Leave him be.", Wufei ordered, his dark eyes watching down at him.
Quatre's glance up at him quieted Triton before he could respond; now was not the time. With one last glance at Wufei, Triton turned back to Heero, who was now sheathing his sword. Walking closer, he let his eyes fall on the headless snake before turning away from it. Glaring cold eyes, ones that looked at him accusingly, met him. He backed away nervously, not exactly sure what Heero intended.
"How did you know that he was in danger?", Heero asked in a tone that sent shivers down Trowa's back.
"The raven's call-"
"What of it!"
"I knew what it meant."
"And how is that possible!", Heero demanded.
"I know a raven's cry of death to come.", Trowa explained in a small voice, "I knew that something was wrong-"
"But how did you know that it pertained to Duo!", Heero bellowed.
Trowa was now stuck between a crumbling stonewall and the Fairy King whose eyes threateningly promised a fate worse than death if he suspected anything of Triton. Luckily for him, Heero was distracted by Quatre's call. It was urgent and Wufei's then followed it. Turning away from the shaken boy, Heero turned to find Duo held in Wufei's arms, the dragon's face buried in the boy's hair. Quatre looked up to him with scared, tear-brimmed eyes and Heero felt his heart clench.
"What is it?", he asked, moving toward them, "What's wrong?"
Quatre tried to speak but was unable to, his tears escaping from his eyes to travel down his face. Wufei stepped forward, his head lifting away from Duo's hair. It was then that Heero saw Duo's head fell limp against Wufei's shoulder and the now silver-colored eyes were tear-brimmed as well.
In an instant, Heero had his prince in his arms, his wide disbelieving eyes looking down at the pale face. He didn't want to believe it; he wouldn't accept it. It was Quatre's silent sobs that made him believe. As an elf Quatre could sense when life had slipped away from a creature, the prince's tears meant that Duo was gone. He dropped to his knees, no longer able to support himself as his arms clung to the boy as his body trembled. A shaking hand rose to brush away a drop of water from Duo's face, and he noticed that it was his own tear. A sob escaped his throat and he buried his face in the boy's clothes.
Everything stilled for the moment, Trowa looking at the three who were mourning over the loss of the boy they had grown to care for in the short period of time. He then noticed the light breeze that began to stir the dust and debris. His eyes turned to the large entrance freezing as he found two silhouettes. His voice was stolen from him as they stepped forward. His mouth did open, but a blond reached out to cover it, his other hand raising a finger to his lips, asking for him to keep quiet. The other moved closer to the rest, Trowa looking on in amazement. If he wasn't mistaken, he was the Seer. They had finally found him or rather he found them.
"You mourn to soon.", a voice said softly, a man now standing next to the sobbing king.
Heero looked up slowly to crystal blue eyes, watching as the godly figure circled around him. Kneeling before him, Angelus reached out his arms, noting when Heero tightened his hold.
"Give him to me, Fairy King.", Angelus pleaded gently, "I shall take him and heal him."
"Angelus?", Heero questioned.
Angelus only nodded, reaching out again.
"But he's dead.", Quatre sniffled from behind.
"No.", Angelus told him, "He's still alive. He is poisoned and I can save him. Heero, you must give him to me."
Heero hesitated, his eyes looking down to Duo's face. His arms passed the limp body of the boy to the Seer, who smiled sympathetically at him. He stood and Heero did the same, his eyes looking to Duo still.
"Come, we haven't much time."
No one asked for an explanation, and no one said anything. They all just followed obediently. The questions would be asked once they reached wherever they were being lead to.
Now outside of the temple, Angelus guided them to their horses. Triton watched as the long-haired blond mounted his horse, reaching out when he was secured. Angelus began to pass the dying child to him, when Heero stopped him. He did not know who this was and he had no idea what his intentions were.
"It's alright.", Angelus told him, "Milliardo is a friend. He and Windstorm will take him to Elinhir. We will meet them there at a normal pace. He will ride on the Wind."
"The Wind God?", Trowa questioned with wide eyes.
He had always been told that after his deed with Relena, the Great Wind had disappeared from existence.
"Yes, I still exist.", Milliardo said to him, "We can discuss such things later. I must take him to safety."
With one last study of Milliardo, Heero willingly let go of Angelus, allowing the Seer to give the boy to the mounted god. With a nod, Milliardo took hold of the reigns with his right hand, his left keeping Duo close to him. They all stood to watch them go, the horse giving a whinny before galloping off. It wasn't long before they headed skyward and not much longer before they were a blur of colors guided by the Winds towards the kingdom of Elinhir. Turning back to the rest, Angelus urged them to mount their horses.
"We must ride behind them and reach Elinhir as fast as we can."
"Elinhir is two days ride from here.", Heero said in doubt, "We'll never make it in time."
"Of course we will!", Angelus said in a tone to clear any and all doubt, "If we ride quickly we'll get there by dusk."
"That means we'll have to ride through the night.", Trowa pointed out.
"We'll do what we must.", Angelus told him, "No more questions now. We must ride on."
Without further questioning they did as told, riding off into the night with Angelus as their guide. It would be a tiring ride but one of their own was in grave danger. They couldn't let death grab Duo, not when they had just found him.
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Due to his horse's speed, Milliardo was able to reach Elinhir in less than an hour's ride. The fairies of the kingdom took no notice of him as he entered, only felt the strong wind blow past them in the direction of the Royal Household. It was Milliardo's destination and he didn't stop until he was inside. Even after his horse halted at the palace gates, he continued on until he reached the king's chambers. It was there that Duo was placed on the bed and Milliardo alerted the guards that stood watch. He gave them orders to bring him as many servants that were free and already knowing what was necessary to heal the dying boy, he ordered them to gather it. The castle would be in a chaotic state for the next few days. He would do what he could to keep Duo alive until Angelus was here to give the antidote. The Seer had already told Milliardo what he would have to prepare, but he would need to be there to distribute it.
"Sir?"
The voice behind him caused him to turn away from the bed, where a small female fairy held out a bundle of blankets to him. He took it with a silent thank you, returning to Duo's side and began to cover the still body. He paused suddenly, noting that Duo's body was much too still. His arms gathered up the boy to him, his ear resting against the left side of his chest. His heart was slipping and he was no longer breathing. With one hand cradling Duo's head, Milliardo used the other to open the boy's mouth.
He drew his face closer to Duo's so that his lips hovered mere inches away and with a whispered chant closed the distance between them. In a short moment he pulled away, feeling relief as Duo's breath exhaled and then inhaled on its own. He hadn't been sure if he was capable of breathing life into him, but at least the boy was still alive. He wished that he knew of some way to at least slow the poison's effect.
He lowered Duo back onto the bed; his eyes making sure the small chest rose and fell steadily. He then turned back to the small audience of servants that had gathered around him, some standing in wide-eyed disbelief and the others flying around him in pixie form out of curiosity. Those he shooed from the room, knowing they were the younger fairies here only to ask questions he hadn't the time to answer.
With the fairies that were left he asked for the ingredients that he would need and ordered them to brew it for exactly one hour. While he waited, he would sit by Duo's side breathing life into him whenever it was lost. Angelus was trying his best to make it here as fast as his horse could take him. He would have been here by now if he had used magic, but he was still weak.
They were trying their best to rest when Angelus felt Remius' nearby. With his brother calling, Milliardo knew that the silver-haired Seer would go to him and so they traveled to his fallen temple. What they found was this dying boy and with both of their magic nearly depleted, Angelus would have to take a human pace in getting here. Two days ride, but hopefully he would reach by tomorrow's sunset.
His hand reached over to clasp one of the boy's hands, watching the body begin to tremble. He was already feeling the effects of the poison. Fever had begun to take him and Milliardo knew that they had limited time. Something had to be done, but there was little that he could do. The Great Wind, though powerful in magic, did not know many spells or hexes. Antidotes to poison, though not really magic but knowledge, were not known to him. He was at a loss. The most he could do was sit here and wait, and that's exactly what he did.
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Relena's blue eyes watched as Angelus led the other four travelers through the night on to Elinhir. They were determined to get to their dying friend. Without Angelus there, he was sure to die even with the Great Wind with him. Milliardo's abilities were limited when it came to life rescuing. He could be destructive though he rarely knew how to be its opposite. She gave a chuckle as she watched them ride on. At their rate they would reach their destination earlier than they expected to.
She couldn't let that happen, now could she? With a smirk she walked toward the doors leading to the balcony, her eyes landing on the far off mountain chain. Their little band of riders was passing by some very interesting territory. Lucky for her, its residents were stupid, meaning they were very easy to control. Closing her eyes, her arms raised with palms facing skyward, her silent chant echoed out towards the direction of the mountains. When a loud roar echoed across the land, she gave a satisfied smirk.
"That should slow them down.", she said in a satisfied tone, "But just in case they manage to get past that little obstacle…"
Her kohl-lined eyes looked west and then south. There laid the Dark Lands and within it her newest creations. With one finger, she beckoned them with a small chant. In only seconds black creatures slithered about her. One hand stretched out, a black-scaled head eagerly drawing near so she could pet it. Now that she had her darling pets at her command, she would need something to track down Angelus and his group. She stopped in thought, her loose hair blowing in the breeze.
Then it dawned on her. With a snap of her fingers, her left hand held a small bowl filled with deep red blood. She let her right hand dip inside, her eyes glittering as she stared at the now blood soaked palm. Holding out her hand she watched as the monsters fought amongst themselves to greedily reach and lick clean the blood from her hand. They were now ready for a feast. No creature but other dragons had a chance to taste dragon's blood. Remius was useful after all. Now that her darling babies were hungry and lusting for the taste of blood, she turned to the far wall and with a crackling of energy formed a large doorway that red beady eyes watched warily.
"Don't be shy.", she cooed, "The blood you yearn for is on the other side. Now go and show no mercy. However, do not harm the Fairy King."
With unanimous screeches, they shot through the portal in one large group. Relena watched them leave feeling giddy all over. This was going to be good. With a wicked laugh, she headed back inside to her alter. She didn't want to miss a moment of it.
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Angelus' blue eyes glanced up at the sky. It was still morning and they were already on the other side of the mountaintop. From their progress he knew they would reach Elinhir before dusk. That gave him some hope and he urged his horse to keep going. After this journey the horses deserved a good rest and all the hay they could manage. His attention was turned to the king galloping beside him. The cold of the mountaintop didn't seem to have the least bit of an effect on Heero. His face was etched with determination as he urged his horse faster with gentle but desperate words. Angelus could read his heart. Heero had found his prince once again and though they couldn't be sure it was actually him, he didn't want to lose him again.
They rode on towards their destination, each and every one mentally saying their own short prayer for Duo. They hadn't traveled much father when the earth began to quake. The horses, now wary, slowed their gallop to a quick trot, their riders looking about in caution. Something was happening and they couldn't begin to guess what it was. A low rumbling roar echoed through the peaks and Angelus circled his horse as his eyes searched skyward.
"That can't be what I think it is.", Trowa said, his voice holding a slight tremble.
Angelus held up a hand for him to be quiet and he complied. The air grew still as they watched around them, the earth still trembling. The horses were now still as well, their own eyes looking around for any sign to run.
"What do you think it could be?", Quatre asked, being silenced by Angelus.
The Seer frowned as the ground suddenly stilled and he let his senses reach out in search of danger. For some odd reason he didn't sense anything wrong and yet he knew there was something out there. After much debate with his own doubts, he turned to face the rest.
"Whatever was there must have been passing by.", Angelus told them, "We can ride o-"
His sentence was cut short by the loud roar that erupted ahead of them, all eyes turning to the snow capped peak. Trowa's eyebrows knitted together in concentration as he tried to recognize what creature it was. As another roar sounded, his eyes widened in frightened recognition.
"It's a-"
His warning wasn't completed as the mountain's peak was crashed into, the falling rocks and debris dropping toward them. The horses raised on hind legs in a panic, everyone but Trowa able to hold on to the reigns. The young assassin was flung back off of his horse into the snow. His horse galloped off to safety and he watched it run off. His green eyes then stared up to gasp in sheer awe. It wasn't any giant that had decided to get in their way.
"It's an ice giant!"
He recognized that as Quatre's voice and he turned to look at the elf, still mounted on his horse that continued to rise in panic. The loud rumbling howl caused Trowa to grab his ears in pain and he looked up in time to find the large club of ice speeding down to crush him. His body was suddenly immobile and he could only stare in wide-eyed amazement at the large weapon heading straight for him. He was suddenly moved violently to the side, gasping as the club crashed down on the spot he had just been only moments before. Someone had saved him and as he looked up to say thank you his voice was lost. His eyes meet with gleaming silver and he found his heart skipped a beat.
"You can play stupid after we save our skins.", Wufei growled out as his eyes looked back to the giant, "Thank me later."
As the giant raised his club again aiming for both of them, Wufei grabbed Trowa tighter the boy still unable to speak.
"Hold on!", was the only warning he gave.
As his wings unfolded with an audible snap, Wufei took off to the sky with Trowa grabbing on for dear life. His voice finally returned to him to warn the Dragon Lord of the club that swung through the air after them and his stomach flipped as Wufei danced in the sky to avoid it. Angelus and Quatre were the only ones left on the ground since Heero himself had taken to the sky. His horse had been sent after Triton's own horse, the steed having run off after throwing the boy from its back.
Angelus watched as Heero used himself as a distraction, allowing Wufei to fly the young human to safety. He himself had to do something; this giant wasn't going to quit any time soon. His magic was barely there however. How could he possibly risk using it without draining himself to where he would be completely useless? He looked to Quatre, the elfin prince watching wide-eyed as Heero avoided blow after blow from the raging bulk of ice.
"Quatre!", he called grabbing his attention, "Give me your hand."
"Why?"
"You use magic from the earth itself. I need you to tap into it and be my channel."
As Angelus stretched his hand out, Quatre didn't waste time in hesitating. He grabbed hold of the Seer's hand, his eyes closing as he started a soft mantra. The elfish words where spoken in near whispers and as the blond spoke them, it echoed quietly.
Heero, having succeeding in blinding the giant temporarily, heard the words and looked to where Quatre sat atop his horse in deep concentration. Angelus was looking towards the sky; his blue eyes now a cloudy white. The electric crackling and thunder from the sky drew his gaze in that direction and he watched the sky turn from white to gray and then finally black.
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Wufei had just settled Triton down on a higher peak when the two both noticed a flash of lightening break through the sky. Their gazes were so enraptured by the bolts that broke through the sky that they didn't notice the large fist that was heading down from behind them. Luckily, Heero had turned in their direction in time to see another large giant that peaked over the mountain's top.
"Wufei, move!", he cried.
At Heero's order, Wufei looked behind him to find a large fist crashing down on them; or at least where they had last been standing. Triton had taken the chance to return the favor, rolling them out of the way of danger and not a moment too soon.
"It's my way of saying thank you.", Trowa said with a smile.
It was lost as Wufei took hold of him to shoot up from the ground, barely missing the hand that grabbed for him. As they soared through the air, they were able to get a good look at the giant that added to the already large obstacle. One large eye glared back at them, angrily growling as they flew out of his reach. Heero was soon beside them, though he was thumb-sized as he flew close enough to utter something in Wufei's ear. Trowa wasn't able to hear what was told, but he watched as Wufei nodded and Heero zipped off back to where both giants were distracted by fighting off the lightening. Trowa soon found he was dropped, none too gently, in a small snow blanketed path. Ignoring his now smarting backside, he looked up to Wufei for an explanation.
"Stay here.", was the only order he got.
Then the dragon was off and Trowa was left alone. He didn't like being left out as if he couldn't protect himself. He had defeated a gryphon which although was much smaller than two giants, it was definitely smarter than both giants combined. His hand reached behind him to his quiver pulling free a large arrow. He may not be able to do much but he would do what he could.
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In the mean while, Angelus was trying his best to gather as much energy he could channel through Quatre. He could tell the prince himself was getting weaker and he tried his best to help the boy. He had found a Cyclops was now another problem they had to solve and he watched as Heero tried his best to keep them busy. Since fairies were usually seen as bright colors of light, Heero was using that ability to distract them. The two giants were busy swinging at the pretty, yet annoying, light that zipped around their heads.
It wasn't long before one was successful, knocking Heero into the side of the mountain with a blow that caused him to then fall to the ground unconscious. With one annoyance out of the way, they were now able to focus on the Seer and the elfin prince; or so they had thought. The ice giant was taken aback as a large mass of flames had hit him in his face. He howled out in pain, his now club-free hands rising to his face.
The Cyclops took sight of the large dragon and was now once again busy with trying to catch the creature that flew about his head. Wufei, once again sent a large orb of fire hurdling towards the giants, but they were ready for it. The ice demon knocked it away with the primitive weapon it picked up from the ground. That same weapon swung back to successfully knock Wufei to the ground, the dragon turning back to its human from before he hit the ground. Groaning in pain, silver eyes looked up to find both giants raising club and fist set on crushing the Dragon Lord for good.
Angelus was aware of Wufei's predicament and he let go of Quatre's hand. The prince looked to him in confusion, his chant broken and he found Angelus was shooing him away.
"Go to Heero and place a shield around yourselves.", he told him in explanation, "Go now!"
Quatre nodded before riding off towards the Fairy King. Angelus watched him go; he would have to make due with all he had gathered. It wasn't much but it was just enough. As the lightening continued to break across the sky, the silver-haired Seer raised his hands to it. With a frown of concentration, he caught hold of the stray bolts dancing through the black clouds. He strained as he felt his own channels open, his hands slowly coming together. The lightening slowly started to meld together into one large bolt of energy, as thunder crashed loud enough to drown out the bellowing giants. Though the lightening was melding, it wasn't melding fast enough.
The Cyclops was the first to bring his fist down, but he stopped midway. Wufei watched in confusion as the creature cried out in pain, a hand rising to its oversized forehead. A large arrow had nestled itself into the creature's fragile skull and Wufei looked in the direction it came from. Triton stood with his bow, another arrow notched and ready to be set free. As the Cyclops moved his hand to raise it again, a larger arrow lodged itself deep enough in its skull for the creature to sway. Its eye then rolled back into his head before the monster fell back, the earth trembling. Wufei didn't have anytime to focus on Triton any longer. The loud cry from the ice giant caused him to look back to it and then behind it. His eyes widened as they came across the largest lightening bolt he'd ever seen. It had to be the workings of Angelus.
"Shield yourself!"
That was the only warning he was able to get before the large bolt came crashing down. It hit its target with a deafening crack, the giant bursting and shattering into snow and large shards of ice. Wufei could see that Quatre had already managed a shield around himself and the Fairy King. Angelus he knew was already shielded, so he need only worry about himself. Then his eyes widened as he remembered Triton. Without another thought he was heading toward the mountain pass.
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Trowa watched wide-eyed as snow that threatened to bury him alive flew towards him and if that wasn't bad enough, large shards of ice were heading his way as well. The only thing he could think to do was to crouch down with his hands on top his head and pray that he survived. His eyes clenched shut and he waited to feel the blistering cold that the snow and ice would bring. He instead was greeted with arms that pulled him close to immense heat and he opened his eyes to find his head resting against Wufei's shoulder. The dragon grunted in pain as the ice and snow washed over him and it was only then did Trowa notice that he was encased in the Dragon Lord's large wings. In a few moments it was over and Trowa was dragged up through what little snow buried them. He looked to Wufei, who now trembled violently and he felt suddenly guilty.
"Wufei-"
The dragon held up a hand to silence him, his now blue lips giving the boy a lazy smile. Dragons didn't fare too well in cold weather and having been buried in snow, Wufei was feeling quite frozen. His wings reflexively shook off any last bits of snow from them and it was then Trowa noticed the blood that stained the white snow. In this cold, Wufei's healing abilities were a bit sluggish, so whatever wounds he had managed to get from the ice had yet to heal.
"I'm fine.", Wufei said in reassurance at Triton's worried look.
At least so he had thought. The others below were only able to hear Triton's cry and Wufei's roar of pain that echoed through the mountaintop. An unrecognizable screech was then followed that made Angelus look to Quatre for the answer. The prince only stood from his knelt position to jump onto his horse. He was off in the direction of the screams before Angelus could stop him.
He whistled for Heero's horse that had managed to get Trowa's own horse back and he climbed off his own to lift Heero onto him. He then turned to a nearby cave his hand stretching out toward it. It crackled with energy before he guided it toward the cave entrance, opening a door that showed Elinhir in all its glory. That had cost him a bit more of his strength and he temporarily leaned against the horse. When he had gotten back his balance, he took the reigns before securing them around Heero.
"Ride on through that portal to Elinhir!", he told the horse who whinnied in acknowledgment, "Tell the fairies that I need their help keeping this doorway open. If by any chance you think we're taking too long, close the door. Find Milliardo and inform his as well."
The horse nodded and Angelus gave it a light tap on its flank.
"Now go!"
The horse took off with a leap into the portal and he himself turned back to climb onto his own horse.
"To Wufei, Aelin!", he urged his horse, "Be quick!"
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Milliardo was sitting by Duo's bedside, having breathed life into the boy for the fifth time. He was running low on both magic and the will to continue on this way. His ears were suddenly attracted to the large commotion outside in the courtyard and he rose to go to the balcony. From the courtyard walls, a large portal was opening and out jumped Aubri. With one quick glance to Duo, Milliardo was over the balcony railing, the wind taking him quickly but gently to the ground.
"Aubri?"
The horse trotted to him, eagerly nudging against him. The wind god took sight of the unconscious king on his back and he looked into the horse's eyes for an explanation. He was relayed the message word for word from Angelus and he turned to the portal that was closing.
"Feed it magic!", he ordered to whatever pixies were nearby, "Don't let it close!"
With only a moment's hesitation, the fairies did as told. Some went to aid their king while the rest took to keeping the door open. Milliardo watched it for sometime, searching the snow filled valley for any signs of Angelus. There were none and though he wished to stay and keep an eye for him, Duo needed him back upstairs. So he rose once again to the balcony, looking back once over his shoulder to the portal.
"Come back to us, Angelus.", he whispered into the wind, "He needs you . . . I need you."
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Trowa watched frozen stiff as a large creature sunk its glistening teeth into Wufei's shoulder. With a howl Wufei threw the creature from him, having snapped its neck in the process. But no sooner had he rid himself of one, than two were then trying their best to dismember him. Trowa watched one sink its teeth into Wufei's wing managing to cause a fragile bone to crack under the pressure. It was Wufei's roar of agony that broke the boy from his trance and soon with a yelp the creature fell dead with an arrow now embedded in its side.
The other turned to him, leaving Wufei to shiver and pant in the snow as its eyes narrowed on him. He took this small moment to study the thing in front of him. It looked like a cross between wolf and lizard and as a black tongue lagged out, Trowa lifted his bow. It was then he noticed the three on his right, his green eyes looking beside him. He could tell that there were more on the other side of him and he nearly became paralyzed again.
As the one in front rushed toward him, the pack took that as a sign to do the same. He let his arrow fly, killing the one in front of him but was now defenseless against those around him. That was his last arrow he had just let loose. He needn't worry though; they all dropped down in the snow either dead or close enough to it. His eyes rose to find Quatre riding in their direction, his bow notched with three more arrows that were soon flying over Triton's head. His blue eyes looked to Wufei who, though still awake, was unable to do anything and he felt his anger rise. There was only one person who was capable of creating such evil and when he came across his sister, Quatre would show no mercy.
He jumped from his horse as he came close to Wufei, his sword drawing in time to swing down on a neck of a demon that lunged to the wounded dragon.
"What are these things?", Wufei gasped in pain, watching as Quatre killed yet another.
"More servants to do Relena's bidding.", he told him, his sword burying into a bony chest, "Mere toys at her disposal."
Though it seemed that Quatre was killing them off one by one, the monsters kept coming, either one by one or in large groups. Trowa watched him, the elf now covered in black blood, before drawing his own short sword. He didn't get far, since Angelus made his entrance, his right hand held high. From it shone a blinding white light that caused the creatures to scream in pain before slithering off to hide. Quatre then turned to Wufei, helping the dragon from the ground. Angelus' whistle called for the horses and they came obediently, even Triton's. The black mutants spooked him as well, but he kept his place so that the boy could mount him.
"Ride back to the valley!", Angelus ordered, "To the portal before it closes!"
His light was dimming and that meant that the creatures slinked closer. There wasn't a moment to lose. With a watchful eye on Wufei, Quatre led the way while Angelus took up the rear. They rode from the pass to the valley where the door stood open, crackling with the threat to close.
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On the other side, the fairies struggled with all their might. This was a bit much for them but they were managing. However, they were quickly losing their grip. The king was the strongest in magic and at the moment he was out cold. Large pink colored eyes looked up to find the Prince of Myrthril riding toward them.
"Don't give up!", the fairy urged, her face frowning in concentration, "They're coming!"
Soon enough the five rode through, Angelus turning back to look through the portal at their pursuers. With a cry, he let the light in his hand fly through the door to where the monsters were. He watched them burst into shadows, disappearing only to become solid once again. Relena knew to make them impervious to magic.
"Close the door!", Angelus ordered, "Or else they'll come through!"
The fairies of Elinhir needed no other warning, the door was closed in a matter of seconds, the image of the mountaintop fading to once again the moss covered wall. Blue eyes looked to Quatre who was already helping Wufei. His eyes then looked to Triton, the boy was a bit shaken but he was able to do if things had to be done.
"Help Quatre.", he told him before climbing off his horse, "He needs it."
Trowa nodded before following after the elfin prince and the dragon. Angelus then looked up to find the balcony he knew to be Heero's. Without much thought, he rose to it, sailing into the room to find a worried Milliardo grasping onto Duo's hand.
"Milliardo."
At the call of his name, the Great Wind faced the balcony, sighing in relief to find Angelus.
"You haven't much time.", he said with a bit of panic in his voice, "He's too close to dying. I can no longer breathe life into him."
Angelus walked to the bed his hand going to the boy's forehead. He was dying of both poison and fever. Remius' beast had done its work well.
"Have you brewed what I need?", Angelus asked.
In a short time, he was handed a bowl filled with steaming liquid. He lifted Duo slightly and Milliardo watched on anxiously.
"I need your help. He's not breathing."
"I have no more magic left.", Milliardo told him with a shake of his head, "I-"
"You must try then!", Angelus snapped before turning back to Duo.
Waking closer, Milliardo sat on the side of the bed, watching Angelus raise the bowl close to Duo's face. A hand rested on the boy's chest and he held his own breath before raising his hand away. The boy's chest rose with it and Duo breathed in, the vapors from the bowl being pulled inside him. The liquid that was left turned to vapor as well, the entire thing being pulled into the boy's body. As Milliardo let out his own breath, so did Duo and Angelus smiled down at the boy.
His heart was beginning to beat regularly. The poison would leave him over night but he would keep the fever for a few nights. As he gently rested Duo back against the large pillows, he was alarmed by the loud thud from beside him. He looked down to find Milliardo now unconscious and he swore under his breath. His friend had truly used the last of his energy for that last feat; he would need healing.
"I'll take care of you.", he said, kneeling next the wind god and gathering him in his arms, "It's the least I can do to repay you."
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For the next few days, things were a bit better. Heero was the first to rise from the short-term coma and immediately was by Duo's side. The boy was still a bit feverish but he now and then opened his eyes.
Wufei, after being babied for a while by the elf, was now allowed out of bed. His injuries were still healing and would have to heal naturally. It seemed as if the wounds those creatures had inflicted on him couldn't be healed by Quatre's magic. Relena had created monsters indeed. However, the Dragon Lord was fine. His broken wing and bite wound on his shoulder were the only wounds that still needed some time and after much begging and convincing, Wufei was allowed to roam freely about the palace. He was not allowed to leave it.
Trowa had tried his best to avoid everyone as much as he could. Remius was hovering over his mind and as much as he knew to have expected this much from him, he was still somewhat shocked. He still couldn't help but feel betrayed in some small way and that was what confused him most. He was spending the most of his time wandering through the palace gardens aimlessly while his mind ran things through over and over again. There were times when he was distracted by something else.
He had been helping Quatre, although the elf did give him wary looks now and then. Wufei was somewhat the same, though he himself gave him looks, he wasn't as cold as before. Heero he hadn't run in to as of yet and for that he was grateful. He was too busy with Duo to even give a thought about him.
At the moment, Trowa sat outside in the garden closest to the forest that was located south of the castle. His eyes were set on the glittering fairy rings where now and then he'd watch the fairies dance about each other. Some, the younger and more curious ones, would fly toward him to study him more. He would only smile at them, allowing them to fly about him, pulling at his clothes and hair. They had never really seen a human before, so he and Duo were spectacles to behold. And since the Fairy King ordered them to stay far from the royal suite, they were left with studying Trowa.
His hand lifted so that a small fairy could drop onto it. Her green eyes blinked up at him, transparent pink wings rapidly beating and he smiled down at her. A blue colored fairy joined her, and he sat cross-legged on his palm beside her, his eyes looking up at him as well. He was grateful for their attention; it distracted him from his thoughts. As they rose from his palm to transform to the size of normal children, they giggled before pulling him off in the direction of the fairy rings along the trees.
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Angelus watched from an open window as this young human was urged to play along with the pixies. He was curious about this young man. He held some sort of connection to his brother and that didn't fare well with him. A boy so young, falling into an inescapable trap, he would have to intervene.
At the moment, his mind was much more concerned with his bed-ridden friend. Milliardo had yet to awaken but Angelus didn't worry. There were signs that revealed the Great Wind was regaining his strength. The slight breeze that blew throughout the room was a sign. Just as Quatre and Heero watched over their "patients" night and day, he rarely left Milliardo's side. He had been regaining his own strength through quiet meditation and he was now his old self again. The knock on his door caused him to turn back away from the window and he softly admitted the person to enter.
The door opened and he was met with the empty hallway. He frowned as he walked closer, stepping outside to glance up and down the hall. No one was there, yet someone was watching him. Slowly walking back inside, he shut the door, his eyes looking out at the hall until it was closed off.
"To think, the Great Wind was merely in hiding.", a voice said from behind him and Angelus spun around.
His eyes found Remius laying on his side beside Milliardo, his brother stroking the blond hair as the wind god silently slept.
"Remius!"
"Shh!", Remius said with a smile, "Can't you see he's sleeping?"
He looked down to Milliardo's face before looking to Angelus with a raised eyebrow.
"According to legend he disappeared into the Winds after his dark deed for Relena had been done.", he said, continuing to play with the blond strands, "You found him though. You always chased the wind searching for him and here he lies at your mercy."
"Please don't think so low of me.", Angelus spat as he glared at his brother, "As much as I love you, I will not tolerate such behavior from you."
With a silent scoff, Remius used a hand to cup the god's cheek before lowering his head to place a small kiss on the smooth forehead.
"Get away from him.", Angelus ordered gently and Remius laughed.
"Jealous are you?"
"What do you want, Remius?"
Standing from the bed, Remius walked to his brother looking at a mirrored face, taking it in his hands. This was his brother, the Seer who knew all and saw all, yet he was lost as to what he was here for. With a soft chuckle he pulled his brother's head closer so that he could place a kiss on Angelus' forehead as well.
"I know you care for me, Angelus.", Remius started, turning away, "I know you want to save me from her, from my fate, but I came to beg that you let me die."
"I can't fulfill that request.", Angelus said looking back to Milliardo, who slept on, "You are my brother and without you the world-"
"The world has its balance.", Remius interrupted, amber eyes looking over his shoulder, "The world has its Goddess of Light and Mistress of Darkness. If I am to die, there would be no chaos and the world shall go on. She will not mourn me."
"But I will.", Angelus said, seating himself on the bed, "I will fall into chaos, I will become unbalanced. When your heart fades, my own will slowly die."
"Only if you let it.", Remius told him, taking a seat on a chair that sat by the fireplace.
His amber eyes fell onto Milliardo again and he sighed.
"And what of him?", he asked his brother, who sat in silence, "When you begin to mourn over me, what of him?"
"Milliardo has nothing to do with this."
"So you believe, but he plays a big part in all this.", Remius pointed out and Angelus looked to his friend.
Remius stood from his seat to walk closer, a hand stretching out to hover over the wind god's chest. As Milliardo breathed out, light formed through the robes that covered his chest before it rose to Remius' hand. The dark god caught it, turning his hand over and then studied the bright crystal that shimmered in the light. It was a wonderful display of colors and he looked to Angelus before handing it to his brother.
"Read his heart.", he ordered gently, "You'll see that he's struggling to understand you, to understand why he even has feelings for you. All you can think of is your brother and how you won't have time for anyone else if he was to leave this earth. You never thought to turn around. He'll be there with open arms, Angelus, but you turn away from him. You're so damned stubborn that you're also selfish. You never stopped to think of who you were hurting."
Remius watched as a tear ran down Angelus' cheek and he reached out to wipe it away. His brother was too emotional. Then again, he himself was too harsh. However, he had to get Angelus to stop fretting over him. He knew what he was doing to himself and he didn't want to stop it. He would bring his end closer to him and Angelus would have to go on without him. He took the glowing crystal from Angelus, returning it back to its rightful owner. He stood, thinking his job done and headed for the window, but he was stopped by Angelus' question.
"And what of the boy?"
"What boy?", Remius asked turning back, "The supposed prince?"
"No. Your servant that you trap with your seduction and deceit.", Angelus clarified and Remius shrugged, "He's growing feelings for you and now he feels as if you've hurt him."
"He knew what he was walking into.", Remius said in his defense, "He was willing to help me, to be my toy."
"Don't toy with one so young.", Angelus warned with a serious tone, "He's much too fragile."
"He knew what I needed him for.", Remius said turning away, "I really don't care if he continues to help me or not. I need him no longer. I'm capable on my own."
"You lie!", Angelus exclaimed, "You'll use him until he finally breaks and you'll leave him in pieces without even a thought of guilt or sympathy!"
"You know me all too well.", Remius said with a laugh, "You should also know that I don't give a damn."
"I love you, brother, but I can't stand the way you are. I hate how you can be so cold and conniving. So-"
"Evil?", Remius interrupted, "Of course. I happen to be the former Lord of Darkness. I know how I am. You with your good intentions and emotions, you sicken me at times. I can't help but be the way I am, just as you can't help but be the way you are, but you're my brother. I have to live with it. Now I can no longer stay, I have some errands to run."
"Go if you must, but take care.", Angelus said, Remius nodding.
Then he was off, a large raven flying towards the horizon. With a sigh Angelus turned back to Milliardo, his brother's words running through his head. He never would have thought that Milliardo had actually thought of him in such a way. It was almost too much to handle. Mainly because now that he thought of it, he had seen the signs yet he did nothing to acknowledge them. His attention was too focused on Remius, who didn't want his attention at all. With the thought of Remius pushed out of his mind momentarily, he walked to the window to concentrate on "Triton", or so they called him. It was time to intervene as he said he would.
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Heero stared down at the sleeping boy on his bed. Duo had woken up a few hours earlier but he was only able to ask for water, falling asleep before it was even brought to him. The water was now resting on the bedside table and Heero sat deep in thought. He had found that Duo had been having nightmares again and he was a sleep talker. Though he really mumbled rather than talked outright. Now he waited in patience as Duo slept peacefully at the moment. Quatre had stopped by to make sure that his shoulder and bite wound were both fully healed. When the elf was satisfied, he left Heero heading back to check on Wufei. He wasn't surprised that Quatre kept an extra close eye on the Dragon Lord.
The knock at his door alerted him to someone's presence and he smiled in greeting as he found Wufei there. The once again dark-eyed dragon returned it and he walked into the bedroom fully. His wings weren't concealed; being that one was injured he couldn't exactly hide them.
"How is he?", Wufei asked, standing on the opposite side of the bed.
"He's waking every now and then.", Heero said in relief, "And the fever's passing. I'm just waiting for him to be up and about."
"Give him time."
Looking up to Wufei, Heero raised an eyebrow.
"I'm surprised that Quatre's allowed you out of bed.", he said with a smirk and Wufei glared playfully, "How do you feel?"
"A bit sore.", Wufei admitted, "Though I'll live."
Duo's yawn caused them to turn, finding violet eyes that blinked up at them sleepily. Wufei smiled down as Duo stretched on the bed, Heero seating himself beside him.
Welcome back, little one.
Duo managed a weak smile to the Dragon Lord losing it when he took sight of Wufei's bandaged state.
"What happened?", he asked in a low voice, "Are you alright?"
Wufei nodded seating himself on the bed as well. Duo's hand reached out shakily to touch his bandaged shoulder. What could have done this to him? Were the others alright as well? What about…
"Heero!", he cried out frantically trying to sit up, "Is he okay?"
The hand that took hold of his drew him to look beside him. With an inaudible sigh of relief, Duo used whatever strength he could gather to raise himself, his arms wrapping around the now shocked king. Wufei stood, excusing himself quietly, leaving with a smile on his face. Heero wrapped his arms around the small body, pulling the boy closer.
"I'm so glad you're alright.", Duo sighed, resting his head on the king's shoulder.
"I was more worried about you.", Heero told him, a hand raising the boy's head, "You almost died."
"Again?", Duo asked with a small smile, "You must be tired of it, huh?"
With shake of his head, Heero's hand took hold of Duo's face, his eyes connecting with violet pools. Duo paused, his eyes looking into Heero's. When his nightmares hadn't plagued his head in his sleep, Heero was what occupied them. He was falling harder for the king every passing minute and he couldn't stand it any longer. He remotely remembered what had transpired before his near death scare and he looked down with a blush.
"You told them that you loved me.", Duo said now in Faninfir, "And you still love the prince as well."
"I can't lie to you.", Heero said, almost ashamed, "I've grown to love you as much as I did my prince of long ago."
"And as I told you earlier, you can't love me, Heero."
"And why's that?", Heero asked, lifting Duo so that he could look him in the eye, "Why can't I love you?"
"Because you still love him.", Duo said turning away, "I can't come between whatever feelings you have for him. I won't allow myself to."
Turning Duo back to him, Heero wiped away the stray tear that ran down Duo's cheek. This face he had seen before; he had fallen for it. He did love Duo and he wouldn't stop loving him.
"As far as I'm concerned you are my prince. And nothing you can say will stop me from loving you."
Heero didn't wait for Duo to object, his lips had already fallen onto his, and the boy's eyes closed as he melted into Heero's touch. This was what they both had waited for and they would let nothing interrupt it again. As Heero pulled him closer, Duo wrapped his arms around the king as well. Slowly Heero pulled away, blue eyes opening to look down at his prince who sat quietly, eyes still closed.
"But he's still out there.", Duo said in a whisper, finally opening his eyes.
"He's been lost to me for so long.", Heero admitted sadly, a hand caressing Duo's face, "And now he's sitting right in front of me. I see him in you Duo. Whether or not you really are him, I love you."
Duo was the first to make the next move, his arms pulling Heero closer as his lips desperately rose to touch with Heero's. His dreams had come true. At the moment he was living his own ending to a fairy tale and he wasn't quiet ready to say "The End" just yet.
T.B.C.
There you are. I hope it was good. Got a little sappy at the end and all, but at least they finally kissed. Great huh? There's still more to come. So review and tell me what you thought. Ciao!
