Author's Note: Here's the next chapter as promised.

------------------------------

Angelus looked back to his small group of comrades as they drew closer to the outskirts of the town they had just left. It would seem that even though they appeared happy, there was a sudden sadness that fell about them. Even Duo, who seemed the happiest of them didn't even hold a smile on his face.

The Seer could only narrow the cause down to two explanation. The first being that they had lost a friend, the boy now held under Treize's control. Angelus blamed himself for this, he could have helped the boy and he should have sensed the poison, but he had been too damned distracted. His eyes looked to the sky at the sound of a raven's call, but he knew it wasn't who he wanted it to be.

Crystal blue eyes returned their gaze to the sullen looking group, narrowing in the young prince of Rothelan. It would seem that maybe even Duo was aware that at the end of their journey there would be a major loss. What the young prince didn't know was that it was he himself who would be taken away from them yet again. Knowing that he couldn't bear to stare at the set of long faces anymore, Angelus fitted his face with a smile, before pulling his horse to a stop.

Milliardo, recognizing that Angelus was slowing his horse, did the same. His blue eyes watched as Angelus climbed off, the rest of them watching as he walked away.

"Where is he going?", Duo asked, the other three riders shrugging.

It would seem that if they were ever to find out what the silver-haired deity was up to, they would have to follow him. Duo was the first off his horse, ignoring Heero's words of objection. From the smile that had adorned Angelus' face, he was sure that it was something worth seeing. He ran after Angelus, as the man was now halfway down the small hill of the plain, leaving the other three behind with the horses and the elf that had yet to awaken.

Wufei looked to Heero, who only frowned in annoyance. There was no surprise that he was upset. Even though the boy loved the Fairy King, he had never really listened to the fairy's opinions. It was something that never changed even after centuries. Carefully leaning Quatre against his horse, Wufei climbed down, throwing the chocolate-haired king a sympathetic look, before he took hold of his horse's reigns to guide her after Duo and Angelus.

"We might as well follow.", Milliardo suggested, the king sighing in defeat, "There's no telling what Angelus is up to. And frankly I'm rather tired of trying to figure it out all of the time. Windstorm, you and the other horses can wander but stay close."

At his horse's soft trill, Milliardo climbed down, giving the steed a loving stroke of its mane. He looked to Heero, now only a bright blue light that zipped off in the direction his lover had gone and let the horses go their way. When they were settled further off on the plain, heads bowed to chew at the grass, he took his leave.

------------------------------

Duo and the others found Angelus at the edge of a lake that had been hidden behind a row of tall trees. He was aware that although it wasn't much, it was the least he could do for them. He had spotted the lake and figured it would be nice to spend an hour or two there in rest; pushing all danger and foreboding feelings aside.

He was aware that Relena's creatures were still following them, but now that they were out in an open field, it was hard for the animals to travel. It would seem that darkness was better suited for them and though they could travel with the sun, they chose to avoid it. So he and the rest will try to lift their spirits, a good swim and a few hours of relaxing would do them good.

With Duo now coming up beside him, he pointed out to the middle of the lake, violet eyes following. Duo stared at the still surface of the water, his eyes widening at the sight of a creature he never thought existed. He watched intently again, waiting for it to reappear and at the glimpse of the large scaly tails that peeked out of the water, Duo grinned.

"Those aren't what I think they are.", he stated, Angelus smiling.

"Care to go for swim?", the Seer asked.

At Duo's nod, Heero flew toward them in his tiny state, resting himself on the boy's shoulder.

"Duo-"

Before he could go any farther with reasoning with his lover, Heero was lifted into Duo's hand, large violet eyes looking down at him, ready to beg.

"Come on, Heero.", Duo pleaded, already removing his boots, "There are mermaids out there."

He looked again to find the heads now poking out of the water, before he looked to the Fairy King who was frowning up at him. He countered the look with sad puppy dog eyes, the Seer laughing at them both. There was a bright flash of light before Heero was standing at full size, his arms now crossed over his chest. He would not fall victim to Duo's looks. They were going to waste time here. It was better if they moved on.

"We can't, Duo.", Heero announced, Duo pouting, "If we don't move on Relena will be sure to find us and I do not wish to meet her again. Every encounter I've ever had with her was disastrous. Besides, we can't waste any time; we need every hour that we have."

"But-", Duo tried, stopping short when Heero's frown grew sterner.

The braided boy looked to Angelus, the Seer amused with the small spat the two were engaged in. As the puppy look was aimed at him now, he felt himself sigh. He looked to Heero, the Fairy King still stubbornly refusing and he held the man by the shoulder.

"Heero, ala'h va.", Angelus pleaded for the young prince, gaining Heero's attention, "We can spare to waste time as Relena's army seems to slow down during the day. The Barrens will not disappear. Besides, it would be nice to enjoy as much as we can before we go rushing off into battle again."

As Heero took his time in contemplating each and every word Angelus spoke to him, he watched his lover pout, his shirt already removed for the swim. Colbat eyes looked to where the dragon was standing, or at least had been standing. At the alarmed cries of the mermaids, he looked back only to find the large dragon plunging into the lake's surface. What followed was a large wave that soaked everyone who stood at the lake's shore down to the skin. Growling in annoyance, Heero looked down at his soaked clothes. Now he had no choice.

"Fine.", he said finally giving in, turning back to Duo and finding him gone.

"Thanks, Heero!", a voice from behind him said.

He looked to the lake, only to see a chestnut-locked head already swimming off in the direction of where the dragon now waded and he sighed.

"Don't worry, Heero.", Angelus told him, removing his own robes to join the others, "Trust me."

With Angelus heading off to childishly play with the Fairy King's lover and the Dragon Lord, Heero looked to the last person he could for some kind of sympathy. Milliardo smiled at him, before his hand rose sending the Fairy King back into the water with a gust of wind, clothes and all. Breaking free of the surface, Heero looked to the shore to glare at the wind god, who only shrugged.

"You can curse me after you've enjoyed yourself.", the blond ordered, walking back to Wufei's horse where Quatre was beginning to stir.

At the call of his name, Heero looked back to find his lover standing on a formation of rocks in all of his naked glory. With a grin on his face, he waved Heero over, mermaids sitting beside him as their eyes watched him a bit too intensely for Heero's comfort. With possessive jealousy pushing him, Heero began swimming in their direction. He would take Angelus' advice and try and have fun. Though he wasn't sure if he would be able to with the thought of Relena pulling on the back of his mind.

------------------------------

Relena let her eyes follow the path that the little traveling band was taking on the map spread out on the table before her. It would seem that they were heading for the Barrens. Someone was guiding them there. She knew exactly who and she had reached the blasted witch much too late. Heero and the others had been long gone. Nonetheless, she had had a lot of fun watching the legendary Thilivern Cardhon crumble under her attack.

Her eyes lifted to the Venerable Mother that was hanging by chains from the wall across from her and she scoffed in disgust. This woman supposedly was the most powerful witch of all the land. To the dark elf, she was nothing more than a disappointment.

"I have no reason to impress you, Relena.", a tired voice filled the room and Relena glared at the woman, "You're praise or lack there of, does not phase me in anyway. You are nothing in my eyes."

Relena slowly made her way over to the woman, watching as she raised blue eyes to meet hers. Now directly in front of her, she smiled, giving her a dark and intimidating laugh. She felt the witch's hold on her calm quiver and she laughed harder. Her hand then ripped across the Venerable Mother's face, the woman crying out at the impact as her head violently snapped to the side.

"You will do good to see me as something worth fearing.", Relena hissed, her scowl replaced, "You'll bow to me soon enough, once I rid myself of that pesky boy."

Une forced herself to ignore the pain of her smarting cheek and she turned back to Relena, who now looked in the direction of the three witches hanging on a different wall. They cowered as Relena took a threatening step towards them, the elf smiling in satisfaction at their fear.

"You fear him.", Une uttered, turning Relena's attention back to her.

"I fear no one.", Relena snapped, her eyes glaring at the older woman.

"Of course you do.", Une pushed, "You know what he is capable of and you've already foreseen what his future holds. That is why you fear him; you know the truth. You are able to die by his hand-"

"And I already know that it will not be so!", Relena screamed, her anger causing the three witches behind her to whimper, "I have seen that he will die, you only prolong his death by sending him afar!"

"The future can be changed, Relena.", Une reminded her, "We see only a possibility and we can choose to alter it or let it be. You're afraid that he will alter it and be successful in ridding all of the earth of your presence."

Une's head was turned to the opposite direction as the back of Relena's hand ripped across her face. The younger woman only glared as her elder began to laugh, making her anger rise and make her feel quite uncomfortable at the same time. This woman was going mad. Nothing she had said was true. The future would be as it was Seen, nothing would change if the gods wanted it so. Une's laughter died as she looked up to the glowering dark queen, her eyes catching hers.

"Your anger is only proof that you believe Duo will be successful. Your end is imminent and he will be the one to deliver you to Death himself."

As Une's crazed laughter began to echo throughout the room, Relena edged away, making sure to not let her mask of anger falter because of her nervousness. Une had gained an upper hand; or so the woman had thought.

"You lie you wretched witch!", Relena spat, "I can see it in your eyes. You know that Duo will lose his life. Though you try to hide it, I can see your remorse; his life is in danger and there is nothing you, the Seer or any one of power can do about it. His blood, my victory; I can taste it. His kingdom, every kingdom, is as good as mine; as well as his lover."

She watched Une's head hang in defeat and she let herself smirk. The Venerable Mother couldn't scare her for long, now that she had hit a nerve that left the woman disgustingly saddened. That boy was nothing but a thorn in her side and she need only rid herself of him. She had left the job to Treize, but the Angel of Darkness took too long. She would finish the boy on her own, Remius however she would leave for the dark angel.

"The future can change, Relena.", Une tried again, though her sorrow weighed heavy on her voice, "He can be triumphant or he can fail. His actions will determine the outcome."

"And you and I both know that he will choose wrong.", Relena said cockily, smiling back at the witch, "How can you be so confidant if you yourself don't believe a word you say?"

There was no answer to Relena's question and the dark elf gave a sound of appreciation as she headed back to the map. She watched as it showed that the band had stopped and she smiled, recognizing the signs that they were going to gate. The exit gate was to deposit them at the entrance of the Barrens. She smiled as she watched the ghost-filled land of the Barrens, letting her hand hover over its shape.

"This young Duo as you revealed, is the prince of lore.", Relena said, her eyes focusing as she watched the two points where the Gates were expected to appear, "I'm sure that he would be happy for a family reunion. As for the rest, I have plans for them as well."

With a dark laugh, Relena watched as shadows slowly swallowed the section of the map that was the Barrens. Angelus had no idea that he was leading them into inescapable doom and she intended to enjoy every minute of it.

------------------------------

"Now when I move forward, you'll raise the sword to counter my attack."

Heero watched as his young lover practiced with Wufei as he himself laid on the grass. They had been swimming for more than an hour, delighting in the game of Marco Polo that Duo had taught them, Quatre joining them shortly after waking. Now the elf was sitting beside him, eyes closed as he silently gathered his strength.

It was narrowing down to the final moment and Angelus had informed them that when he and Milliardo returned, they would open a Gate and take it to the Barrens. Everyone that could offer it would help to open the Gate, which was why as they waited for the Seer to return they gathered as much strength as they could. However, they knew they had time to relax as well. The Seer and his lover had gone swimming and had disappeared behind the rocks for quite sometime now.

"Okay, let's try it one more time."

He directed his attention back to Duo and the Dragon Lord, watching them both raise their weapons to fight. Duo had asked that he be taught to use a sword, since he had no intentions of letting Heero and the others do all the fighting. He was aware of the dangers and he was prepared to face them. As Wufei moved forward to strike, Heero sat up completely; he had to be prepared. He knew that Wufei had no intentions of hurting his lover, he just wasn't so sure that the dragon knew his own strength.

Duo on the other hand knew not to underestimate Wufei's strength or believe that the dragon would go easy on him. He was training the young prince to fight and protect his life. There would be no softened blows or any free hits; he had to get it right. Raising his sword, Duo winced as the loud clang of metal echoed around them as swords met.

His eyes connected with Wufei and he watched the dragon smirk before the sword was quickly moving to his now exposed stomach. With one hand releasing the hilt, Duo swung the sword in front of him, forcing Wufei's away with the screech of scraping metal. He had no time to rest however as he was warding off blow after blow, each offensive attack moving him back. If he continued this way, he would find himself pressed against a tree; he couldn't allow that to happen.

As Wufei's sword swung for his head, he ducked, crouching low to the ground. With a cry of effort, he let his leg swing to Wufei's, quickly standing as the dragon was knocked flat on his back. With a short display of sword dancing, Duo then aimed the blade to the man's throat, smiling as Heero cheered as a result of his victory.

"You learn quickly.", Wufei said with a smile of his own, "I wasn't expecting that. So now you can fight one opponent."

"What about two?"

At the question, Duo quickly spun around to block the sword that was swinging down for his head. He looked to find Quatre smiling at him and he only had a moment before the blond was swinging at him again. He was also aware that Wufei was now standing behind him. Without a thought, he rolled out of the way before standing to face his two sparring partners. He thought that they were moving a little too fast, but they were training him on short notice so it was to be expected. He just hoped they didn't tear him apart before he could actually go into battle.

With a deep breath he readied himself, watching as Wufei and Quatre drew in closer. He had no idea how well he was going to ward them off, Wufei was already fast and Quatre, although he wasn't as fast as the dragon, he was fast enough and he was quiet. So that meant always keeping the elf in his line of sight, if he ever got behind him, he would never hear him coming if the blond didn't want him to.

His muscles tensed as he stood waiting for their move and he allowed himself to take some comfort in the fact that his body wasn't tired as of yet. Although his teacher was a slave driver, gym class had nothing on this. As Wufei and Quatre both moved toward him together, he had very little time to figure out how he was going to avoid both blades. His only choice was to block one as he moved out of striking range of the next. How he was to do that exactly, he wasn't sure. He found that he didn't have to.

The elfin king was thrusting his sword toward him, but Wufei was swinging his down. Without hesitation, Duo swung to block Quatre's attack, while his foot rose to connect with Wufei's exposed chest. It was a blow that sent the Dragon Lord stumbling backward. His triumph was short lived however, since Quatre was already on the offensive once again. With Wufei out of the way for a few moments, Duo focused on the elf in front of him. He moved to block every blow Quatre threw at him, both swords dancing and clashing loudly as they fought.

Heero watched on from the sidelines, his eyes watching as his lover endured every attack that his two comrades gave him. He resisted the urge to go to his rescue, knowing that Duo had to learn on his own. It was difficult, but he managed. Besides, Duo was pretty good for a beginner. Then again, he had known how to fight before. Maybe with his memory regained he was learning what his mind subconsciously knew.

Wufei, having regained his composure was now closing in on the braided prince. Heero clamped his jaws together, wanting to call out and warn Duo, but knowing that he had to let his lover deal with this on his own. On the battlefield, there were chances he wouldn't catch sigth of an enemy sneaking up behind Duo, and that meant the boy would have to learn to sense it on his own.

Duo, although busy with warding off the attacking elf felt when Wufei closed in behind him. With a blow to Quatre's wrist with the flat of his blade, he sent the sword flying out of the elf's hold before he turned in time to duck, avoiding the swing that could have removed his head. He silently cursed himself even though he was now on the offensive, sending blow after blow to the Dragon Lord. He had turned his back on Quatre and now that meant unlike Wufei, he would not be able to tell when the háron chose to strike.

As he was able to take the dragon's sword and once again have Wufei lying on his back in defeat, he saw ebony eyes quickly look behind him. With both swords raised, Duo turned to face narrowed blue-green eyes, the loud clang of him blocking the elf's weapon startling nearby birds in the treetops. They two held their ground, neither moving their swords as they panted breathlessly. Quatre smiled, the gesture showing his approval. He hadn't expected Duo to remember how to fight and if that wasn't the reason for the boy being so good, he was a very fast learner.

"Very good.", someone said from behind him, "Now how would you handle this?"

Looking over his shoulder, Duo found Relena's large black creature leaping in his direction and he turned to meet it. With a cry, Duo swung the weapon in his right hand, the blade cutting the creature in half. It burst into smoke, the black tendrils rising towards the sky. He stopped, now tired and out of breath, his violet eyes finding the Seer smiling back at him. The man had only sent him an illusion, but damn if it didn't seem real enough to actually kill him if he hadnt been fast enough. Knowing that his training was over for the day, his muscles gave out and Duo fell to his knees. In no time Heero was by his side, his arms holding his lover up.

"That was some workout.", Duo said with a smile, looking to where Quatre was helping Wufei up, "Remind me to never fight you two at the same time ever again. I'm sure I won't be as lucky as I was today."

"I was impressed.", Quatre said, dusting himself off, "You managed to knock Wufei off of his feet more than once and get our swords away from us. You're good."

"What do you expect?", Wufei asked with a smile, "He learned from the best."

As he was praised from all sides, Duo let himself lean into his lover's embrace, letting his eyes fall closed for a short moment. He was about ready to drop but at Angelus' arrival that meant they were soon to depart. His nap would have to wait until after they Gated through to the Barrens, then again, that is if he was allowed one.

"Duo.", Heero called gently, watching him nod off, "I'm proud of you. Although you had me worried a few times, you came though."

"Thanks.", Duo said with a lazy smile, his eyes opening to look into Heero's, "I'm just glad I'm not dead. Though I am a bit tired, I wouldn't mind a short nap."

"It will have to wait.", Milliardo told him, "Angelus and I found a location where we can open the Gate. It's a short walk from here."

"So that's why you two disappeared so long?", Wufei asked, throwing the two deities a knowing glance, "I would have thought otherwise."

Throwing the dragon a look that was slightly threatening, Angelus ignored the accusations. Even if the two had gone off for other reasons beyond finding a suitable location for the portal, it wasn't any of their business. Wufei, catching Angelus' threatening glower and Milliardo's flush of embarrassment, laughed softly. It was fun teasing those two and he found he had to do it more often.

With a final glare at the snickering dragon, Angelus turned to look at the sun. It wasn't that far into the day. It was no later than the afternoon if he had to guess. That left them enough time to reach the Barrens if they left at this exact moment. He looked to Heero and the young prince, finding that Duo was asleep even with the advice that he shouldn't. Then again, Angelus couldn't blame him. He had just been taught years of fighting techniques and then had sparred as if is life depended on it. Angelus was sure that he wouldn't have been killed, but injury to oneself was enough of an excuse to fight with every amount of strength you could muster.

Blues eyes looked to the sky again, aware of the flock of black birds that were circling ahead of them. He knew that they were spies and from the slight differences, he could tell that these were no ravens. That meant that even if he had retreated, Treize was keeping an eye on them. Milliardo he already knew was aware of them and he looked the Great Wind to confirm his suspicion. The wind god's eyes were indeed narrowed on the flock above their heads. He watched them circle and dance through the air for a few moments more, before he looked to Angelus with an uneasy stare. He didn't have to ask the question that was forming in his head, Milliardo was answering before he could even try.

"He's not only watching us.", Milliardo informed him, looking back to the crows, "It's a message of what's to come. He's either warning us or mocking us and since he is the Angel of Destruction, I'm guessing it's the latter."

Angelus turned his eyes back to the birds over head, watching them dance a few moments more before they all disappeared into a burst of smoke. He was no reader of animal signs and Milliardo was an amateur at best. The one who would have known just what exactly the crows were foreboding was no longer with them. He was another lost soul caught in Treize's grasp, his free will imprisoned within the confines of the dark angel's mind. Even if the boy's original intentions had been dark, he had grown into a different person over the days that he spent in their company. His loss was felt as much as if it had been any other.

He forced himself to shake free of this thoughts. It was best to not let himself fall into mourning; they had no time to. He had allowed them to waste enough time by spending part of the day with the small comfort of amusement, but now they had to leave. He turned back to the others, finding that they were packed and ready; they were only waiting for him.

After they crossed the final Gate, there would be no turning back. His heart sank at the remembered words of the Venerable Mother, his eyes watching as the heir to Rothelan hugged his arms around his horses neck. The tense muscles and the slight muttering were signs that he was dreaming. He could only wonder if it was a dream from his past or his inevitable future, since he knew that his dreams were not at all good.

With a whistle to call Aelin to him, he let his mind stray to concentrating on getting the Gate open. It wasn't far, only a short trek away and he would need every ounce of magic that he could muster. Of course, he would not do it on his own, and he wasn't allowed to. Milliardo had already informed him that he would gain help, whether he liked it or not. Although Angelus had told his lover back at the inn that he would ask for help, he had indeed intended on opening the Gate himself. That had earned him a cold glare and a threat he knew that his lover would live up to. So it was fear of the blond god that had made him agree. Milliardo, though gentle at times, could be harsh and unforgiving. He was in every way the Wind.

He didn't mount Aelin, as every one else was ready to travel by foot; Duo the exception. With a nod to his comrades, he led the way into the trees that separated the lake from the plain they had been traveling through earlier. It wasn't long before they were standing in front of two ancient trees, large enough to make even Angelus stare in awe. The hidden magic that permeated from them encased them like a thick fog. To open a passageway to the Barrens meant that they would need the power of the two trees in front of them. He looked to Quatre, needing the elf's opinion. If the Elvish king thought it better to use another power source, he would have to look again or open a Gate using his own magic.

"What you have found Angelus is ancient magic.", Quatre told him, not needing his question to be worded.

He let go of his horse's reigns, walking over to one of the giants and letting his hand touch the bark. He pulled it back as if burned, looking down at his finger tips before staring up the towering tree to its branches. He had never seen magic such as this. He put his hand on it again, feeling as power shot through his body, thousands of small electrical pulses running through his veins. These two giants were a form of storage and it was pure luck that they had come across it. Or maybe, they were meant to? Looking to Angelus with a smile, Quatre nodded his approval. The trees were asking of their intent and when they had an answer that satisfied them, had given the approval that the Seer had been searching for.

"I thank you.", Angelus murmured to both the trees and the elfin king, "Now if I may gain some assistance. We'll have this Gate open in no time at all."

Stepping back to meet Angelus as the others stepped forward, Quatre looked once again to the ancient giants in appreciation. These trees were older than him and it would seem as if they were even older than Angelus as well. They were stored here to assist those who needed it, but no one came through here; at least not since the creation of the Barrens.

As the Seer rose his hands in front of him to begin drawing energy from the trees, Quatre felt the air around him vibrate, the sensation causing him to clench his jaw. He never did enjoy actually using magic, it wasn't the best feeling he ever experienced. At the faint breeze that began to stir the fallen leaves and twigs on the ground, he knew that Milliardo was joining the Seer in gathering the power. That left Wufei, Heero, and himself to build the frame and actually open the gate.

As he Saw a net like array of lights spread between the two trees before disappearing, he could only guess that Wufei and Heero had taken the job of framework, that left him to actually open the Gate. With a deep breath he closed his eyes, his mind reaching out to the two trees carefully to draw energy away from them and into the Gate's potential opening. He had been a passageway for magic before and he didn't much mind it, however this time it was a bit of struggle.

He had to mold and twist it to form a Gate, giving him a more active part than a link. So with eyes now open and staring at the crackling magic in front of him, he muttered a few Elvish words, wincing when a loud electric "pop" and blindingly white light signaled the opening of the Gate. He looked to Angelus, the Seer smiling to him in gratitude and he gently let his channels close. It was now time to cross over and at the slight gasp from behind them they knew that Duo was awake again.

They all looked back to the prince, whose violet eyes were watching past them to the large doorway in front of them. Something had caused him to wake and it was now drawing his attention to the view beyond the Gate.

"We can't go.", Duo mumbled, Tamsin snorting, "Something's not right."

"What is it?", Heero asked, walking closer to his lover, "What's not right?"

"I don't know.", he frowned, his eyes staring ahead, "But, I just feel as if we shouldn't. Not now."

"We must go now.", Angelus pushed, though wanting to heed Duo's warning, "The Gate will not stay open long."

The prince's sigh was his sign of defeat and he gently guided Tamsin forward. He would go, but he was reluctant in doing so. He had no idea what had jerked him from sleep, but from the cold that took hold of his skin, he was pretty sure that it lay just on the other side. The others mounted their horses, Heero riding beside his lover who had stopped just before the passageway. He let his hand reach out to comfortingly grip his shoulder; his hand traveling to gently squeeze Duo's.

"It's alright, lano.", Heero said in hopes of calming him, "I'm here with you. We'll be just fine."

"I hope so.", Duo mumbled, his voice quavering, "I really do."

With a fearful look to his lover, Duo muttered his order for Tamsin to head off, the two of them moving forward into the portal. The others followed close behind him. It would seem that things were going fine. However, it was quite the opposite.

Tamsin and Duo had been the first to cross through the Gate and would be the only ones. As soon as they had cleared, the Gate closed and Duo looked behind him with wide eyes at it disappeared, taking every once of light with it. His breath became short as his eyes widened in the dark. His heart was thundering as he stared at where the portal stood and he was sure that it would return. Although he knew that he and Tamsin were on there own. His horse was getting a bit nervous and he couldn't blame him.

"What do we do, Tamsin?", he questioned, his grip tightening on the reigns as the darkness of the Barrens seemed to close in on him, "What do we, do?"

At familiar sound of feet shuffling closer, Duo panicked, which in turn caused Tamsin to panic. With a fearful whinny, Tamsin rose on two legs, Duo trying his best to stay mounted.

"Tamsin, calm down!", he ordered, though he himself was close to taking his horse's example.

With more soothing words, he managed to calm Tamsin down a bit. Whatever was out there was most certainly coming closer and since he had no clue as to where these creatures were, there was really nothing he could do about it. If only there was enough light for him to see.

"Light.", he softly said, his hand rising to the folds of his tunic.

He fingered the stone inside of it, his mind registering that this was exactly the occasion that it was needed for.

"And with it you will be guided to your final destination and shown the way through darkness and shadow to Ithildin, the blade of the Goddess.", Une's words he repeated as he pulled the jewel free, "The Úrin Mír."

Duo squinted as the gem first pulsed before sending out a large circumference of light. He heard as soft screeches and cries faded, being pushed back by the blinding light. Whatever was out there wasn't partial to light and for that he was grateful. At Tamsin's soft whinny, he petted the top of the steed's head, his heart finally calming down some.

His eyes looked at his surroundings, finding the shadowed shapes of dead trees, their bare branches stretching up and out like bony claws. He visibly shank, not wanting to know if those were claws indeed. At Tamsin's snort, he looked ahead of him aware that the light was illuminating a pathway. It was meant to lead him after all. He didn't have to say a word, Tamsin set off on his own at a cautious trot. He really didn't want to go anyway without the others, without Heero; but he had no idea where they were.

"Wherever you are, Heero, I hope that you're safe."

------------------------------

In all of his years, in which he had lived many, Heero had never found that a Gate would fail him. However, as he was violently thrown out of the portal and onto a stone floor, he knew that was exactly what had happened. He was no longer accompanied by his traveling companions and he knew that meant Duo was gone as well. He straightened himself to a standing position, his eyes calmly looking about the room that he had been disgracefully thrown into. He had no idea where he was and he knew that he wouldn't like it when he finally found out.

"I knew, Heero, that you'd return to me.", a voice he knew all too well, "It was only a matter of time before you would be mine."

He only turned in time to see Relena's cruel smile before black tendrils of shadow were tightening around him, drawing him back to a wall. He fought as much as he could, but the amount of pain that surged through him as he struggled forced him to calm himself.

"Where is he!", he bellowed, watching Relena's smile grow darker.

"Why Heero.", she cooed, walking closer, "It's been years since I've seen you; centuries even. Is this is the way you greet me?"

She was now close enough to reach out and touch a hand to Heero's cheek, the Fairy King pulling away from her. He had no clue as to what her intentions were and he did not like the vulnerable position he was in. He had enough memories and scars from this woman and he knew exactly what she was capable of. Though he was more worried about his young lover than himself; she had tampered with the Gates destination and that meant that Duo could have been sent somewhere he would easily perish. The thought made him growl in anger and he glared darkened eyes in the Dark Queen's direction, the elfin woman only smiling at him.

"Oh darling, don't be upset.", Relena cooed, with a pout, "I did this so that we could be together. At last, you and I can live happily ever after and finally that human whore that you have associated yourself with will be out of the way."

She started with a fit of giggles, her hands clasping in front of her chest as she spun in her merriment. This was the most exciting thing that had happened to her in ages and she would not let herself miss the opportunity to celebrate it. The young prince was bound to die without his Guardians nor her lover. Things would only get better. She had sent the others to the Dark Lands, right to Treize's doorstep. The man would enjoy his little gift as much as she would enjoy Heero.

"You're even more daft and disgusting than before.", Heero's voice bit from behind her, "Even with every insult I could throw at you, with every truthful claim that I would never love you; you were persistent. It wasn't enough that I had told you once that the sight of you made my stomach churn in disgust; it was as if the insults fueled your obsession. Duo is the only person I'll ever care for and if you dare harm one hair on his head, you will regret it with every waking moment."

Her dancing had stopped at the sound of her lover-to-be's words and she turned cold and angry eyes to him. He matched her glare for glare, his anger not faltering once, even as he felt the shadow-like tendrils tighten their hold around him. With a gleam of malicious intent in her eyes, Relena stalked forward, her hands clenched to fists by her side. Only when she was in front of the fuming fairy did she relax them, one hand reaching out to painfully grab him under the chin, her nails digging into the flesh of his cheeks. Heero's only reaction of pain was the clenching of his jaw and it was fuel enough to lead her on.

"Now hear me, Fairy King.", she spat, her nails digging deeper into his flesh, "I know full and well that you held nothing but abhorrence when it came to me. I knew damn well that you had fallen head over heels for that Rothelan brat, and I knew every time I advanced, I would be painfully turned down. I suffered a great deal in my persistence of you. I'm not as dunderheaded as you believe I am. I'm more than a love-struck woman too stupid to notice when a man shows no interest in me.

"It angered me to no end that you would rather have that wretched boy than a woman such as me. I knew that the only way that I would ever be happy again, was with you by my side, and the boy you had come to care for dead. My intentions now Heero, is to have you suffer endlessly in my wake, to equal every amount of suffering that you put me through! Duo is walking straight into his doom and with no one there to come to his rescue! And while you watch your precious prince die yet again, I will enjoy every insufferable moment of your agony!"

At her yelled words, she sent a painful bout of electric pulses through the shadows around the captured king, which in turn sent it coursing through Heero. As his pained cry reverberated around her, Relena gave a dark laugh, watching as the body in front of her convulsed in pain. This was all too fun, but not as enjoyable as when she would watch Heero lose the one thing he ever held dear.

She let the torture end for now, watching as Heero sagged limply in his constraints and releasing his chin from her vice-like grip. She watched with a bored look as the small cuts that her fingernails had formed slowly bled, her eyes looking over the man she had always dreamed of possessing. It was a shame that her lust and feelings for him had somewhat waned, growing into a perpetual hate and the need to feel his suffering. Well, there was nothing she could do about it now; only enjoy every moment of it. There was a knock at the door and she looked to it as it opened, two set of onyx eyes peeking in from behind it.

All in all she had to say that she had done very well. She had the man she had always wanted, two new lovely dragons for pets and soon enough her rival would be killed, leaving her to then focus her energy on bringing the entire earth under her rule. To say she was ecstatic was an understatement. As the two young girls watched over to where Heero hang limply from the wall with horror-filled eyes, she quickly made her way to them, her body shielding them from the view behind her.

"Pay no attention to that.", she ordered gently.

As both Ming Ue and Ling Yao watched up at her, she gave them a smile, taking each by the hand.

"Why don't we go and play?", she asked, starting to lead them out of the room, "I'm in the mood to have a little fun."

As Ming Ue giggled happily at the notion of play, Ling Yao looked behind her to the broken man in his shadowy chains. She knew who he was; she had seen him many times before when she was still with her mother and father.

"Baba.", she mumbled softly, her eyes still on Heero.

The door shut behind them as they left, Relena going on about what she planned to do with them and how much fun they would have. Finally, turning away from the room that held a well known friend behind it, Ling Yao let her mind stray to her father yet again. If the Fairy King had been finally captured, where could her Baba be?

------------------------------

Wufei gave a roar of dismay as he noticed that he and the others had been sent astray. Heero and his lover were missing, which could not fare well at all. If there was any good news at all, it was that he and the rest were still together, but what bothered him most was that even if the Fairy King and Duo were both missing; it wasn't likely they had ended up together.

He gave another roar again, this one full of anger as he pounded his fists against the ground that he had been thrown onto. Silver eyes searched around him before they narrowed on the Seer, who at the moment was taking in their surroundings. From the confused look on the deity's face, Wufei knew that this hadn't been planned. Then again, why would Angelus plan to send them all in different directions? He looked for Quatre, finding the elfin king helping Milliardo to stand. They were in unfamiliar territory and one glance up caused the dragon to turn cold. He knew where they were and it meant nothing but trouble.

"Where are we?", he heard Quatre ask.

"In a place born of the Seven Hells.", Angelus answered, his voice unable to hide his unease.

Standing, Wufei made his way to where the silver-haired god overlooked the land at the edge of a cliff. They were in the Dark Lands alright; there was no doubt about it. Volcanic ash and smoke burst free of the ground in front of them, the liquid fire hidden underneath the ground illuminating the large cavernous cracks. Every horrible creature imaginable slowly stalked the horrendous valley below them, Wufei catching sight of a small pack of Relena's own creation on the verge of making another beast their prey. He turned away, not wanting to watch much more of it. He knew what could be found here, or rather, he knew who could be found here. As if Wufei's thoughts were invitation, he made his appearance.

"Why, if it isn't my dear friends."

Turning at the sound of his voice, the four remaining companions watched as Treize hovered in the air, his face holding a smile.

"Welcome to my humble abode.", he greeted, his arms spreading to indicate their surroundings, "I hope you'll enjoy your stay here. Or rather, I hope to enjoy your stay here."

"What have you done with the others?", Angelus demanded, his blue eyes narrowed on the Angel of Destruction.

"I have done nothing, oh Great Seer.", Treize answered, lowering himself to the ground, "However, the Lady Elf would be more inclined to answer that question. You see she thought it best if I held your company. However, our young prince Duo was the only one left on the set course to the Barrens. He has many who are dying to see him and if he can make it to his final destination, he still won't be able to retrieve the object he's after. My servant will see it so."

"And what do you intend to do to us?", Milliardo asked, his face a mask of calm though he was just as angry as the others, "There has to be reason behind our being brought here."

Treize gave a low chuckle as his eyes centered onto the blond wind god. In the blink of an eye, he disappeared, the small group looking about suspiciously. Before they could even react, large black roots broke free of the ground, entangling themselves around the Seer, elf and dragon. The only one free was Milliardo. However, he was taken prisoner in Treize's arms as the man reappeared behind him. The dark angel wrapped one arm tightly about his waist, while his other hand took hold of the Great Wind's chin firmly.

"What I intend to do is send those sniveling idiots in front of us to the cavernous pits of the Seven Hells.", he whispered, his lips brushing against Milliardo's cheek.

He gave a taunting smile, looking up to find the Seer glaring daggers in his direction, as he and the others fought against their constraints. He made sure to keep eye contact with the former God of Light as he turned the Great Wind to face him, so that the wind god was glaring up at him. His lips were able to lightly ghost over Milliardo's as he kept his grip on the man's chin.

"You, my dear.", he announced softly, yet loud enough that the others could hear him, "Will stay with me. Relena has requested that you pay for your deceit and I plan to do such as I so please."

With that said, he looked to Angelus, his lips pressing forcefully against Milliardo's, watching the Seer's eyes lighten to a silvery-white as the Seer's full power crackled about them. He pulled away from the kiss to laugh loudly as Angelus broke free of the scraggly vines, only to be tangled in thicker, more resistant roots. With a wave goodbye, Treize watched as the ground opened underneath the three in front of him, the vines pulling them down into the earth.

"Angelus!"

At Milliardo's cry he turned the god's eyes back to him, glaring down at the angered eyes as the Great Wind's lover and his comrades were swallowed into the earth, the ground closing over them and further separating the small group. He allowed the blond to angrily push him away.

"Oh come now, Milliardo.", he started, walking closer to him, "You knew that it would come to this eventually."

He was stopped by the forceful wind that lifted him off his feet, sending him sailing backward toward the spiny trees that could easily impale him. Not wanting to go through that experience a second time, he let his wings open to guide him through the ravenous gales. It stopped once the same roots that had held his lover captive now wrapped themselves about Milliardo, causing him to focus on fighting them instead of the dark angel that landed in front of him. His face was taken in a hold again and he was made to look up into those sharp blue eyes that burned down at him.

"You brought this upon yourself, Milliardo.", Treize informed him, the blond deity scowling up at him, "It was your decision to save the boy and then later guide him. If your loyalties had lied with the Lady Elf, this could have been avoided."

"I'd rather die than serve that wretched witch!", Milliardo spat, the venom in his voice causing Treize to shiver.

"Oh don't you worry.", Treize muttered, darkly smiling down at him, "You'll most certainly die. However, not until I've tired of you."

------------------------------

Duo sighed to himself in boredom as he and Tamsin continued their journey through the barren wasteland. It's not to say that he was no longer afraid of what lurked in the shadows, he was deadly afraid, however he had been traveling for quite a while and without anyone to talk to it was quite boring. There was Tamsin, but the horse couldn't much speak as send feelings to him, and if what Duo was reading from him was right, the horse was quite bored himself. He gave another sigh as his shoulders slumped, his hand fingering the Úrin Mír.

He had almost lost its light earlier, when he had lost his nerve and decided to head back. The gem had then gone out, leaving him and Tamsin in complete darkness. It was then he understood what the three witches meant when they told him it would only reveal what was ahead of him. He could not turn back, no matter what, or he would be left to stumble his way through the intimidating shadows of the Barrens. It was enough incentive to keep going. Now he and Tamsin were on their way to the ruins of his homeland.

"How long do we have to until we reach there?", he asked aloud, Tamsin snorting in response.

It turned into a surprised whinny as he stopped in his tracks, Duo looking ahead of them to find out what had caused the horse to hesitate. He was met by the sight of a young woman, dressed in an embroidered dress with her hair done up with jewels to match it. Her deep blue eyes watched him with as much curiosity as he watched her and Duo was startled as she was joined by a young gentleman, dressed as elegantly as she was. His brown eyes watched up at Duo as well, almost as if in sheer awe. Tamsin nervously trotted back, Duo calming him with a scratch to the back of his ear. He had no idea who these two people were, but something was telling him that they could be trusted. Tamsin however had another idea entirely and he tried his best to turn around.

"Tamsin wait.", Duo commanded, the horse fighting against the reigns, "Calm down. If we turn back again we'll lose the light."

That little reminder caused him to stop, though the horse's eyes still looked fearfully to the two newcomers before them. He felt Duo climb off of him and he objected, trying to block the prince's way as he began to step forward. Duo only gently pushed the horse's head aside, walking forward to come closer to the young man and woman before them. His advance made them cower away and he stopped in his tracks. The Úrin Mír; its light was too much for them.

He let his hand close around the jewel so only the slightest amount of light could shine through, watching as their eyes softened with relief. It was their turn to move closer then, coming as close enough so that Duo could see that they weren't as solid as they looked, their bodies were slightly transparent. These two were ghosts, as he had been warned he would find them here. He was taken by surprise as the gentleman bowed, followed by the young woman who curtsied, before straightening and grabbing his hand. Her soft smile was inviting and he allowed her to pull him forward, leading him wherever it was that she wanted him to go. The young man followed in step beside them and they walked on with a reluctant Tamsin behind them.

It wasn't long before they stopped however, Duo watching as they both looked ahead of them with wide and fearful eyes. Before he could question, they were gone, leaving him and Tamsin alone to face whatever was before them in the darkness. His eyes widened as a large crowd lurked forward, dead and blank eyes staring in his direction. He was sure that unlike the two apparitions that had warmly greeted him, this lot wasn't at all happy to see him. He backed away to Tamsin as they stepped forward in unison, bony hands reaching forward as if ready to grab him. With his horse's whinny, he clung tightly to the reigns, wide violet eyes unable to detach themselves from the people in front of him.

"Tamsin.", he murmured, the horse only trilling softly, "What do you think they're going to do?"

At his question, the collection of ghosts sprang forward, various screams piercing through the deadened silence. Duo screamed himself as Tamsin gave a shrill whinny of alarm. He stumbled as he rushed to climb atop his horse, finally managing just in time for Tamsin to shoot off through the ghosts. They grabbed after him, bony hands ripping at his clothes and hair, pulling the band free so that Duo's braid loosened. His escape was not taken lightly and they followed, shrill screams urging Tamsin to ride faster. Duo, against his own mind, looked back only to scream out at the sight of his pursuers on his tail. As one reached for his tunic, they succeeded in pulling him from his horse, the young prince crying out as he painfully collided with the ground.

He heard Tamsin's whinny of alarm and he looked up to find the swarm of ghosts closing in on him. He had no other choice but to scream, as his hands took to swatting them away as they grasped and clawed at him. It was like fighting thousands of bees, each stinging him before he could manage to slap them away. He needed something to drive them away. Anything before they ripped him to shreds. He could already feel the blood falling free from any wounds they inflicted on him and he cried out as he was grabbed by the hair, the force of the pull threatening to rip the locks free from the root. As sharp nails dug into the flesh of his wrist, his hand went lax, releasing the gem that he had forgotten all about. It burst into light, causing the swarm of ghosts to scream in pain as they either burst into dust or fled into the safety of the shadows.

With his attackers now gone, Duo laid on the ground battered and bleeding, his eyes still wide with fright as his chest rose and fell in shortened and shaky breaths. As he forced himself to sit up, he looked about him to make sure that he was alone. He was indeed alone; for even Tamsin had gone missing.

"Tamsin?", he called out in a small voice, his eyes frantically searching for the horse, "Tamsin!"

With the steed's disappearance, Duo felt his eyes burn with the threat of tears. He forced them back, grabbing up the Úrin Mír from the ground. Without Tamsin with him, he was truly on his own and the fear that grabbed hold of him nearly caused him to panic. It was stopped short by the presence of the two ghosts from before as they peeked out from behind a tree ahead of him.

Their eyes looked to him in sympathy and understanding, the young woman moving forward as if to comfort him. She was stopped by the light however, stumbling away from it. Her face set with a frown as she watched Duo with sad eyes. Her arms stretched out before her as if beckoning Duo to her, but he only sat watching her, his arms wrapping around himself. As inviting as the gesture was, he knew that the light would hurt her and since it seemed as if she had tried to help him before, he didn't want to.

Her eyes watched him intently as her feet brought her closer. Alarmed, Duo unconsciously backed away, wanting to cover the light from the jewel but not wanting to give the other ghosts a chance to try and harm him again. He had to stop however, since every inch he shuffled backward dimmed the light even more. He watched her move forward, unharmed by the light that she had feared at first.

Now in front of him, she knelt before him, her arms still open and beckoning him forward. With much hesitation, Duo unwrapped his arms from around himself, leaning forward into her embrace. That alone was enough to release the tears that he had been fighting to hold back. The contact with the young woman had only brought back memories and suddenly he knew who she was, wrapping his arms around her tightly and sobbing into her shoulder.

The touch on his shoulder alerted him that the young man had joined them and he looked up into light brown eyes, recognizing him as well. As the woman's hand softly stroked his hair, Duo let himself relax in her embrace. He felt he had no reason to fear anything with these two near him. He was urged to stand, his arms still locked around the young woman. When she pulled away, she smiled up at Duo, her hand wiping away the tears from his face. It was then Duo noticed that the deep blue eyes weren't blue at all, but violet. He had wanted to ask thousands of questions and he was sure that even though the two didn't seem to talk, he would be answered in some way.

"Mom-"

He was cut short as she gently rested a hand over his lips, the soft smile telling him that questions would have to wait. As the man he found to be his father took hold of his shoulder, Duo allowed himself to be led down the lighted path again. He was worried that Tamsin was off somewhere hurt, but the smile of assurance his father gave him told him otherwise. Tamsin was safe wherever he had gone and he was safe in the presence of his parents. With the fear he had first felt waning; Duo let his mother and father guide him off to a shadowy bulk that rose past the trees. If he had to guess, he would say that it was the palace of Rothelan and within would be his father's tomb. Ithildin was waiting for him there.

------------------------------

With their arrival to the volcanic depths of the Seven Hells, the three men were quickly met with every imp and hellion that resided there. However, with the Seer in full rage, they didn't stand a chance. Each an every one fell down dead or worse before they had a chance to lay a blow on any of them. It didn't discourage them from coming and it caused Angelus to grow angrier with every demon that jumped in their direction.

With an enraged cry, a burst of white power broke free from him, disintegrating each and every monster that had slinked closer in hopes of chancing an attack. Those that had been waiting for their turn to attack the silver-haired god whimpered and retreated afraid of this new fury that had taken hold of the legendary Seer. Wufei and Quatre merely watched on in their on fearful silence, not wanting to be carelessly caught by any stray magic. With all the monsters now gone, Angelus looked about his new surroundings, silvery-white eyes glaring in all directions.

"I demand you show yourself!", he bellowed, the cave walls reverberating.

Quatre unconsciously clutched onto Wufei, the dragon nearly whining as his sensitive ears ringed at the volume in Angelus' voice. He had never seen the Seer this angry. When they were free of the Hells, as he was sure they soon would be, Treize would not be spared from the god's wrath.

"I said show yourself, Mistress!", he bellowed again, his two companions shrinking away from him.

His wish seemed to have been granted, since with a flash of purple and black lightening, an ebony-haired woman stood before them dressed in black, her blue eyes glaring at the god who dared to demand her presence.

"How dare you exude yourself in such a manner in my holdings, Great Seer!", she screamed, her anger shaking the walls as much as Angelus had, "You hold no rule over me here!"

"I demand that you send us back!", was all Angelus said, ignoring her words completely.

"I will do no such thing!", she spat, her eyes glaring sharp enough to cut glass, "Who do you think you are!"

"A deity who has not the time to meddle with the likes of you!", he retorted, the air around him tensing as his power radiated to its peak, "You have allowed yourself to fall into assistance of Relena and I will not stand for it. You will let me leave here or suffer my wrath."

"Ally myself with that dunder-headed twit!", the woman spat, her anger falling just a tad and her annoyance rising, "I have better sense than that, father."

At the reminder of his parentage of her, Angelus calmed his eyes returning to their crystal blue. He could see both Wufei and Quatre relax at his now calmed state, but his eyes stayed focused on the goddess in front of him. To hear that she had not allied herself at all was a relief. That meant they were sent here without her acknowledgment, which in turn meant that their release back to the mortal realm would be much easier to attain. He moved forward, watching as she seated herself on the rocky throne that sprouted up behind her.

"My apologies for my anger.", he began to explain, the woman smiling, "However-"

"I know.", she simply said before he could finish, "I would be angry as well if my lover had been held prisoner by a man that I despise more than anything. How can you not be angry when you can't even begin to imagine what might befall him?"

At Angelus' hurt expression, she sighed sitting up in her throne. Her black polished nails drummed against the arms of her chair and she tried her best to seem sympathetic. After all, this was her father.

"Don't worry your pretty little head off.", she said in offering of comfort, "He is not the type to allow one to have their way with him. Treize has his hands full with that one, I'll tell you that."

She looked to where the elf and the dragon stood in each other's arms and she smiled. The Dragon Lord's mate had not too long ago made residence in the Underworld. It was a pity that she had no time to remind the man of that. As much as she was making herself seem the kindhearted goddess that she appeared to be, she was not her sister. She enjoyed torturing already weakened souls and the strength that the Dragon Lord was gaining from his newly acquired lover was challenging her to crush it once again. It would seem that Angelus read her intent, for he gave her a disapproving look when she turned her attention to him again. If only Remius had been the one to create her instead.

"Alright.", she started, standing from her throne, "I will send you back to the mortal realm. However, I will most definitely not send you back to the Dark Lands. That itself is my territory and I do not intend on holding you there anymore than I do here. I will deal with Treize when I get the opportunity and it would seem that I will only gain said opportunity when his life has been taken. That leaves you with only two choices."

"And that would be?", Quatre asked softly.

"I can either send you as far back as Myrthril to gather armies while you still can or to Relena's place of exile to rescue your Fairy King."

"He's in her hold?", Wufei asked, the woman laughing.

"Why you didn't think that Relena would miss the chance to snatch him up did you? She had planned this entire thing. What neither she nor Traize was expecting was for me to help you in the slightest way. Which, by the way, I would like to remain a secret just between us; if that's alright with you."

The three nodded and she smiled in satisfaction before clapping her hands together.

"Wonderful! Now if you'll just inform me where you'd like to go, I can be rid of you."

"Cassandra.", Angelus called softly, gaining the goddess' attention, "I beg that you send me back to the Dark Lands. Quatre and Wufei can manage to gather an army on their own."

With a sigh, the Mistress of Darkness rolled her eyes at her father's display of concern. The Great Wind had managed to turn the man into a doting fool in her opinion and she didn't want to suffer his begging anymore than she had to.

"All right, fine.", she agreed in exasperation, beginning to open a large portal above their heads.

"Thank you.", Angelus told her with a smile, "I won't forget this."

"Don't mention it.", she said, watching them rise toward it, "And honestly, I'd much rather you forget everything."

Before they were gone, she threw them a wink, wishing them success in their plans. She knew that if they failed, her rule of the Seven Hells would most likely be brought to a complete halt. She would rather take her sister's position as the Goddess of Light than bow to that miserable elf. So their triumph was sought after by her as much as anyone else's.

------------------------------

Treize tried his best to have his glare intimidate the seething god that was currently chained against the stone wall of his castle's dungeon. Everything he tried to do to the blond had gone wrong, being that the deity fought back with every ounce of strength and power he possessed. His original intentions was to enjoy the deity in the comfort of his bedroom, however it had failed. His chambers were now a crumbling pile of rocks thanks to the storm that the wind god had blown through it and he himself had gained a few injuries from the twister that had only minutes ago tore through the dungeons.

It would seem that when the Great Wind swore himself to another, he was off limits to any and everyone. Pity. He would have enjoyed taking Milliardo as much as he had enjoyed having Relena. As the man's blue eyes stared daggers at him, Treize turned away to begin pacing, not exactly sure what to do with him now that his first proposal had gone awry. Then again he wasn't so sure if he wanted to easily give up on that entirely. Since Milliardo had been already stripped to the skin, his eyes traveled over the restrained body hungrily. No, he wanted to have the wind god. He'd just have to go about this in a different manner. Turning back to face him, Treize studied the blue-eyed man for a bit longer before he was traveling closer to him.

"Why is it that you resist me?", he questioned, a hand reaching out to stroke the golden strands, "Imagine what I could give you. More than Angelus could ever offer you; a place by my side as we share Relena's rule of all the earth and power beyond your wildest dreams. You'd be held in higher worship than the Goddesses combined. So why fight me?"

"I would rather suffer an eternity of insufferable torment than find myself beneath you!", Milliardo spat, watching Treize grow enraged, "You're nothing but a joke to me. What makes you so sure Relena would share any amount of rule with the likes of you? You claim that no one holds complete control of you and yet you answer to her every beck and call like a trained mutt."

His words were replaced with a shout of pain as Treize's hand that had been stroking his blond hair, curled itself around it and pulled painfully. He jerked Milliardo's head back, arching the wind god's neck so that he could glare down into blue eyes. Damn this deity to the deepest pits of the Hells. He was much the opposite of the rumors claimed him to be. A gentle soul? What was in front of the dark angel was a spiteful god that didn't know when to keep is smart mouth shut. Then again, it was what attracted him to the blond deity to begin with.

When he had first been called to the Lady Elf's aid, he had been promised the Great Wind in return for his service, but Milliardo had gone into hiding. Even now when he had emerged from whatever prison he had locked himself away in, he had been snatched up by the Seer first. Then again, Treize did enjoy taking what did not belong to him. When Relena suggested that he be the one to punish the wind god for his disloyalty and betrayal, he had humbly accepted the offer. Now he somewhat regretted it. Milliardo was making it quite difficult to punish him in any way at all. He was stronger than Treize had expected and he was pretty sure that if he was pushed far enough, the blond would muster enough power to kill him.

The door to the cell banged open as one of his own servants rushed in, causing Treize to glare in his direction. The demon shrank away, his whimper causing Treize to soften his expression. If he allowed the creature to fear him for too long he'd never know the reason as to why he had rushed in here to begin with. He needn't ask the question, the way his body tensed with impatience was enough to draw the message from the small demon.

"Master, trouble at the gates!", he squalled, his eyes wide and frightful, "Trouble at the gates!"

Treize growled, his hand finally letting go of Milliardo to fully face the panicking creature at the cell's door.

"What is the trouble?", Treize asked, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword, "Or may I go so far as to imply that I can instead ask whom is the trouble?"

"The Seer!", the servant screeched, backing away as his master's rage flared, "The Seer, Master!"

"Take as many as you need and try to hold him back!", Treize ordered, the demon bowing, "I'll be there soon."

As the creature straightened, it slowly began to back away, the dark angel growing impatient.

"Go now!", he boomed, the creature whimpering.

It ran off, leaving Treize and his prisoner alone once again. The Angel of Destruction drew his sword, his eyes glaring off into space. He could hear the battle echoing from behind the stone walls, his men obviously failing to keep the Seer behind the castle gates. Angelus was determined on reaching his lover and nothing would stop him. Looking over his shoulder to Milliardo, whose hopeful eyes were focused on the small barred window that was across the room, Treize chuckled. A wonderfully dark idea had just struck him and he would be a fool if he didn't follow through on it.

"It would seem that your lover has come to your rescue.", he pointed out, gaining Milliardo's attention, "Angelus, ever the valiant hero. It's a shame that he will not succeed."

He crossed the room so that he was once again standing in front of the Great Wind, his hand gripping golden locks once again though this time much more gently.

"Your precious Seer's magic is slowly depleting with every moment he fights. The moment he drains himself to exhaustion, I'll be able to deliver a killing blow and the Great Seer will be no more."

He smiled as he watched Milliardo's eyes darken with saddened realization that Angelus was walking right into his death. Even as those eyes turned from fearful worry to anger, Treize saw the misty start of tears. This was exactly what he wanted. He let his hands finger the chains that had held Milliardo to the wall. He absorbed the magic that had stopped him from breaking free back into himself because now he wanted the wind god to escape. With a low and insidious laugh, he took his leave knowing that sooner or later, the Great Wind would follow.

T.B.C.