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Here's the next chapter, I hope you all enjoy! :) By the way, I don't have a beta so all mistakes are on me. I'm sorry if I miss some things; I try.

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Hazel eyes blinked a few times to try and adjust to the low lighting of the cavern. Confused eyes wandered around but the only thing in her line of vision was black rock. She tried to move her head in the direction of the only light source in the room but winced when pain traveled down her spine like lightning. Still, she could tell it was a fire from the scent of the wood burning.

She looked down and noticed that her armor had all been removed and placed right beside the cot she lay on. She was dressed only in her golden tunic, while being tucked under a thick wool blanket. Slowly but surely she got her fingers to cooperate enough that they would twitch. Quinn noticed that her arms and hands were scrubbed clean; the scent of soap lingered faintly in the air. How long have I been asleep? Puzzled, Quinn worked her fingers again. Her muscles were all stiff from disuse; it was almost painful but she needed to regain control of her body.

After a moment or two her limb started moving. Next she worked on her neck. With a clenched jaw, she turned her head side to side until she could get her full motion back. Finally, she turned her head towards the fire and could barely make out two forms. The blonde squinted to try and see past the flames but it was useless. The light was too bright for her super sensitive vision at the moment. After so many years of being a soldier, Quinn had learned to trust her instincts and they were telling her that she wasn't in any immediate danger.

Still, the warrior clenched her jaw and got to work on getting her legs working. She started at her feet and worked up both limbs. This time it only took a few minutes, but sweat was already dripping down her forehead from the exertion. Her sharp hearing picked up movement from the other two people in the room. Her head turned quickly.

XXXXXXX

Brittany smiled down at the brunette still in her arms, "Everything will work out, ok?"

Rachel smiled and nodded. She sniffled and wiped away the last remaining tears off her face.

"I don't want it to seem like I'm bailing on you, but I kinda sorta of have to apologize to Santana," the tall blonde winced, "…I took my frustration out on her and I shouldn't have. She's trying to teach me and I bit her head off. So, I'm going to go find her, will you be ok?" Brittany ducked her head down to meet the smaller woman's eyes.

"Yeah…yeah I'll be ok," Rachel nodded quickly. She had to get back to Quinn, and maybe find some food after that. Now that Brittany had pointed out the large purple elephant in the room, she couldn't control the growling her stomach was currently doing.

Brittany grinned and hugged Rachel quickly before turning around and heading out the main entrance in the direction she knew the dark woman had left earlier.

Rachel watched her friend leave sadly. She couldn't help but feel that Santana was going to be a very important figure in her best friend's life…and she would be left behind. The brunette knows it's a trivial thing to think about, especially in the situation she's found herself in, but old insecurities have a way of butting their heads in at horrible times. Just one more thing for her to worry about. Rachel sighed and looked down; kicking a loose rock. She would need to have a talk with the blonde about Santana soon, but right now she's got to focus on tending to Quinn.

She turned and walked a few feet before lifting her head towards her patient. Rachel froze when stormy hazel eyes met hers; her stomach dropped.

"Quinn…" she whispered disbelievingly.

XXXXXXX

Quinn's vision cleared the longer she stared at the two women across the way. Sharp eyes looked at the blonde; Brittany. She knew that girl, she was a friend. Certain memories were still a little fuzzy to the warrior. Her graze traveled to the petite woman next to her. Her features softened unconsciously and a smile threatened the corner of her lips.

Rachel Berry.

She could never forget that face. Images raced through Quinn's mind clearing up all the missing and cloudy memories that plagued her. The blonde's eyes widened and she took in a shuddered breath. She remembered fighting the Shriekers and falling out of the night sky. She remembered talking to Sonya, and she remembered Rachel coming to save her. The girl must have done something correctly because at that moment she had been completely sure she was dying. The blonde never intended to have to deal with the consequences of her last words toward the brunette. Of course she would never refute that fact; Rachel is a beautiful woman.

Even without her extra sensitive hearing Quinn could have heard her name uttered reverently a mile away.

Hazel eyes locked with dark and in an instant Quinn's face relaxed. She softened her gaze and smiled slightly.

Rachel thought she didn't have any tears left after her talk with Brittany but she was wrong, so wrong. With a teary smile, the brunette sprinted the remaining distance between the two and crashed into the warrior's body. The relief that entered the petite woman's body was palpable.

Quinn held back a painful groan when Rachel slammed into her. She hugged the distraught woman for a minute before pushing her back.

"—I'm so sorry…I didn't realize…" Rachel backed up ashamed about her forward behavior.

"I…I…." the blonde croaked out. She coughed trying to clear her throat but her tongue felt like sandpaper.

Rachel quickly caught onto the problem and ran to collect a cup of water. She returned a moment later and offered the warrior the cup. Quinn groaned and tried to sit up, almost collapsing, but Rachel reacted quickly enough and helped the rest of the way up. Quinn took the offered cup and drank greedily to the last drop.

The cold water cooled her sore throat and it felt wonderful.

Quinn set the cup down and looked toward Rachel. Said girl had been staring at her the entire time, but at least she wasn't crying anymore.

"I uhh…how long have I been out?"

Rachel tilted her head as she stared at the blonde, "…almost five days." She kept being attacked by flashes of what happened when she was in Quinn's mind.

"That long?" Quinn frowned; she hadn't thought it was that long. Although a part of her knows she should be thankful that it wasn't any longer than that, "…and Santana? Where is everyone? Where are we?"

"Oh! Do you want me to get them? I can go try and find them, Brittany can't be too far away…" she got up from her kneeling position, intending to go share the good news.

"NO! I mean….no….just wait?" Quinn pleaded. As much as she wanted to make sure the others were ok, she didn't want them to see her like this; weak. She can't even sit up without Rachel's help and she's supposed to be the strong one here, the leader. All she needed was a few more minutes.

Rachel paused, a bit shocked at the outburst, "Yeah…whatever you want. How…how can I help?" she was at a loss. She'd spent so much time with Quinn the past few days, but she hadn't thought about how awkward this might inevitably be.

Quinn looked over at her charge, "…help me stand up? Everything is kind of…stiff. I just need to work everything out…"

Silently, Rachel pulled Quinn up onto her feet. She stayed close to the warrior in case she fell over, but made sure to stay out of the way so she could stretch out her wings if she wanted. Quinn winced and struggled pulling her body into an upright position. Even with Rachel's aid, the movements still hurt. She closed her eyes and concentrated on spreading out her large wings. It felt like knives were being stabbed into her spine. A painful cry escaped her lips. She could only guess her wings were the worst since they hadn't moved at all since she blacked out.

Rachel rushed forward to help, "Oh god, are you ok?"

"—stop. Don't…just let me…" pain filled eyes pleaded. Rachel reluctantly nodded and took a step back once more. As much as she wanted to help, she understood that this was something Quinn had to do on her own. Her body must feel alien to her right now. She's got to feel as normal as she possibly can.

Quinn tried to convey how thankful she was to not have the other woman push her through her eyes. She broke eye contact and closed them once again, she needed to concentrate. Already sweat was forming at her hair line, absentmindedly she thought she'd need a haircut. Her scalp was really hot. The excess moisture was quickly threatening to spill over. Her wings fluttered and flapped, sending loose dirt flying in all directions.

Rachel brought her arm up to protect her eyes. The wind picked up slightly as Quinn began to flap her wings harder and harder. After a few minutes the wind stopped and Rachel brought down her arm. She couldn't fight the smile from gracing her face from the sight that greeted her. This was the Quinn she remembered; a confident, powerful warrior. Even without her full armor, she still looked intimidating and magnificent.

Quinn stood there proudly, her wings outstretched to their full extension, power just radiating off her figure. Rachel could practically feel the electricity in the air, the hair on her arm jumping to attention at the sight. Quinn pulled her wings close with a satisfied little grin on her face. She felt tons better.

"That was…..just wow…" Rachel whispered in awe.

"Thanks…" Quinn muttered rubbing the back of her neck nervously, "…so now that I can actually move, where are we? A cave? What happened with the Shriekers?"

"That's such a long story…." Rachel took a deep breath getting ready for this very long explanation.

XXXXXXX

Quinn laced up the straps on the side of the bodice of her breast plate and tugged on them to make sure they were secure. Then, she picked up her fallen sword hilt and sent a piercing pulse of energy, reforming the blade and slid it into its sheath on her back. Next, she focused on her shin guards and bracers. The feeling of her beloved armor pieces warmed Quinn to the bone; it felt as if she was finally back to normal. Despite minor repairs, the blonde had kept the same pieces of armor for centuries.

Rachel's story of what happened was unbelievable. The Commander part of her mind was highly disappointed in her seconds' rash decision to teleport when there was even a slight chance of failure. If it hadn't been for the Seer's interference they could have all died quite easily. Quinn had never personally met the Seer, but she had heard of her power. She was incredibly interested in finally meeting the legendary woman. However, she understood that there was little room for an alternative choice. Yet, as the dark skinned woman's friend, she was happy she managed to keep them all alive. Also, she couldn't overlook the fact that Santana had successfully killed two Shriekers without help.

Quinn narrowed her eyes and stepped around examining the cavern that had been her sanctuary for the past week. Rachel had left to gather the rest of the group and let them know she was awake. It gave her time to look presentable but she had underestimated how long it would take her to strap everything together. So, now she had time to just wander around while waiting for the others. She stepped into the middle of the large cavern and rested her hands on her hips. The room was simple; as she suspected there was a large fire pit in the middle, an old wooden table and chairs and she could faintly hear water trickling somewhere in the back. Absentmindedly, Quinn ran her fingers though her long hair. She couldn't stop the frown from her face at how many tangles met her fingers, but at the moment that couldn't be helped; that haircut starting looking better and better.

Santana literally crashed into the room; her wings clipped the side of wall sending her stumbling forward a few steps. Blushing, she looked up and wasn't surprised to see Quinn staring at her with a wry grin and a raised eyebrow. She stopped only feet from her Commander and friend.

"Commander, it's….it's great to see you up and about," the tan woman spoke evenly, trying to be respectful.

Quinn chuckled, "It's very nice to rejoin the living. I believe my decision to make you my second was a very smart choice, if the events of the past few days are anything to go by. Good job," she smiled at her oldest friend in gratitude.

Santana smiled brightly, "I got your back. Always Quinn,"

Quinn tilted her head in acknowledgement. Santana had always been there for her, whether it be through duty or by their friendship. She had no doubt that wouldn't change in the future.

Santana stepped to the side and let Brittany through. The taller blonde had no reservations whatsoever and gave the warrior a strong hug, "Oh my….I'm so happy you're better. We didn't know if you'd wake up and we were so worried," Brittany dropped her voice to a whisper, "…all except Rachel. She didn't doubt you at all."

Quinn froze in confusion at the rushed whisper, but before she had a chance to reply the other woman had pulled away with a bright smile. Brittany stepped to the side next to Santana to let the Seer through.

Rachel watched the reunions from the side. Her memories of the events were slowly returning and she knows Quinn had said something about a 'Sonya'. Much like when she had spoken to her doppelganger, Quinn must have been speaking to someone named Sonya. Now, all she had to do was figure out who Sonya was. She figured she'd have to go straight to the source for that piece of information. Hazel eyes caught hers for a split second before returning to the Seer.

The Seer stepped up towards the blonde, her expression pleasant. "It is a blessing to finally have you with us again. Your friends were extremely worried, but it would seem you've proven to be a strong fighter."

Quinn ducked her head in respect, "Coming from you Seer…that is a mighty compliment."

The old woman scoffed, "Oh hush you, none of that. I'm merely a friend helping out those in need. You seem to be in good health, no doubt your healing abilities have a little something to do with that."

"It took a little while, but yes…I do believe I'm in perfect health. Thank you for helping us all. I don't know if I can ever repay that debt. You saved us from teleporting into danger, and you helped me while I was unconscious. Thank you," Quinn placed her fist over her heart and bowed slightly at the waist. Santana quickly copied her Commanders actions.

A white eyebrow accompanied a toothy grin, "So much protocol with you both. You do know you aren't speaking to a Council member. Formalities are not needed; not with me. However, I accept your gratitude. I only did what I believed was the right thing do…at the right moment in time. Besides, I think a certain someone deserves your thanks as well," she motioned over to Rachel.

Twin heads lifted and looked toward Rachel. The small woman glanced away from the intense scrutiny.

Quinn straightened up, "I do believe you're right. Still, thank you for giving us sanctuary. We should probably be leaving soon; otherwise your home might be put in danger."

"Nonsense. You may stay as long as you wish, and I can assure you," the Seer paused as a wicked gleam entered her white eyes, "…I can fully take care of my home. I'm fully capable and have many surprises in me yet."

Quinn couldn't help the grin, "I do not doubt you for a second, wise woman."

"What do we do now though Quinn?" Brittany spoke up.

Quinn turned and looked at the blonde, "I don't know. We can stay here a little bit longer, but we'll need to formulate a plan. The Void won't stop and I think we're going to need more Guardians on this. The Shriekers…I'd only heard of them in Legend of Old. Imagine my surprise at seeing two headed straight for us."

"Enough of this tiring subject. Let us all enjoy the fact that the Commander here is in one piece and is in good health. Come, let us dine together and enjoy one another's company," the old crone said as she turned without a second glance, assuming the group would follow her to the long dining table nestled in the back.

Quinn, Rachel, Santana and Brittany exchanged looks before shrugging and following the crazy old woman. Who could say no to food?

Quinn let Santana and Brittany get ahead of her. She stayed back and grabbed Rachel's arm lightly, pulling her to a stop.

"Wait a moment?" Quinn asked softly.

Rachel stopped and turned toward the warrior completely confused. They waited a minute while their friends walked away so they could talk relatively alone.

"Yes?" Rachel prompted when it seemed Quinn wasn't going to initiate.

"Listen…I just wanted to thank you. The Seer was right, you helped me the most. Even though I'm still confused over how you did what you did…you saved my life. I'll always be indebted to you," hazel eyes softened at the admission.

Rachel's throat clenched. Never had the blonde looked at her in such a way and it took her breath away. She truly was a beauty.

Quinn ducked her head lower to meet Rachel's wandering eyes. She almost wanted to ask her if she was ok, but she bit her tongue. This was already out of character enough, but her honor demanded that she thank the girl.

"I…umm…it was nothing. I'm happy you're alive, I was so scared..." she trailed off with a whisper. Quickly she snapped back to reality and tried to salvage the conversation from total awkwardness, "Let's just consider ourselves even? You've saved me so many times by now, I just tried to return the favor."

As the words left her mouth they left a bitter taste. It wasn't a lie, but the brunette couldn't help but feel like that they were; at least partially. Rachel wasn't stupid; she'd always prided herself in knowing how her mind worked. Growing up with few friends gave her plenty of time to figure out how she ticked. She didn't know how Quinn felt, but she knew she cared a lot for the warrior, if the amount of worry she had felt were any indication. Of course it could all be a result of a serious case of hero-worship.

Quinn dropped her brow, "You have no idea of the fate you saved me from. One day I hope to tell you, but just know I don't count my debt repaid. You have my gratitude, and if you didn't already have my services…I'd give you my sword," she vowed.

Quinn knew what she was saying, and only the Seer and Santana would understand the gravity of the situation, but that mattered little when in Quinn's eyes…she owed Rachel everything. Rachel saved her from the true death, and even though the tiny brunette doesn't know the magnitude of her words…Quinn knew. That would have to be enough for now.

Rachel didn't know what to say. A simple "thank you" seemed so anticlimactic, but she had no idea how to respond to that, "Thank you…."

Hazel eyes closed briefly in understanding; she knew the brunette would be oblivious. "Let us go eat, you look like you need a good meal just as much as I do…"

Rachel coughed to cover up her embarrassment, "Right, yes…lets. I'm not sure I want to know what's on the menu tonight though."

Quinn chuckled, "Think of it as an adventure. It won't kill you, trust me," she looked over at Rachel.

Rachel rolled her eyes, "I think my life is plenty full of adventures at the moment, but I'll have to take your word for it. You wouldn't let anything happen to me anyways."

"Never," came the quick response.

Rachel whipped her head around to see Quinn's face. Her tone had been odd, but the blonde was already facing forward getting ready to rejoin their companions.

"Hey, Quinn…" she quickly called out.

The taller woman halted her movements.

"Do you remember everything that happened? While you were out?"

Hazel eyes looked over her shoulder curiously for a moment, "…Yes, don't you?"

Rachel just shook her head, "Not all of it. Not yet."

"I'm sure it will come back with time. Nothing to worry about," Quinn's sultry voice spoke out softly before said blonde walked away without another word.

Quinn truly hoped the brunette wouldn't remember her last comments in the dream world. Not yet, not until she figured everything out. Sonya's actions had her thinking and she'd need to meditate on it later. Nonetheless, her last words hung like a mantra in her mind; mocking her inability to confront their consequences.

Beautiful

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