Gundam Wing Fan Fiction ❯ Fates Intertwined: The Threads that Bind Us ❯ Chapter 3

[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]

Author's Note: Look, I'm updating yet again. Not much to say here. Thanks again to those who reviewed and I hope you enjoy the third installment of this fic.

Disclaimer: I, Neptunesdemon (formerly known as C-Chan2), hold no title of ownership to Gundam Wing and the show's scrumptious pilots. Damn it all to hell, I wish that I did.

Pairings: Yet to come.

Warning: The same as the last. Though I must warn Relena makes her appearance and I couldn't help but make her just a tad bit annoying. That and Trowa is EVIL! Well read on and tell me what you think.

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With his arms bound behind his back there as very little he could do. Zechs struggled against the hand that was holding his head down, his breath was escaping as he fought and he mentally swore. Every bit of air that escaped him meant he was one step closer to drowning, but he couldn't help it. His lungs began to ache from the need for oxygen and just when he thought that his body would give in and try to breathe, his head was lifted from the barrel of water it had been shoved into.

He coughed and spluttered, trying his best to breathe in between. Amir had already decided that he was going to kill him, but had admitted to wanting to torture him first. Zechs had been beaten sensless, his skin had been cut just to see him bleed, and now Amir thought it would be fun to torture his victim with nearly drowning him over and over again.

Blue eyes tried to focus on the man who sat comfortably watching his demise, but he only managed a glance before his head was plunged into the water again. This time he hadn't been prepared and he hadn't held his breath. He struggled harder this time, his mouth opening against his will and water entered his lungs before he could even try and stop it.

He heard the warbled objection and he was pulled free, water spilling from his mouth as his lungs coughed it up. Amir had taken to standing from his chair, yelling angrily at his two henchmen.

"You idiots, don't kill him yet! I'm not done with him!"

Zechs braced himself as the man came rushing forward and was happy that he did, the punch to his gut didn't seem to hurt as much. Then again, he had long become numb to any sort of physical violence.

"So, my friend.", Amir began, smiling darkly at Zechs bruised and swollen face, "Do you see now what happens to people who never return the money they borrow? Now I've been thinking, and I've decided to give you a second chance. Though now the amount has tripled. You pay me three pounds of gold and I'll let you live and keep only a limb."

Zechs only sneered, his face paining him from the gesture before he gave Amir his answer. With a good hawk, he let fly, laughing as Amir cursed at the spit that landed on his face. That earned the blond man as series of blows to his side and face, his laughter replaced by grunts of pain.

He was dropped to the floor, where he tried his best to curl up into a fetal position, and he winced suddenly as something painful pulled at the back of his mind. He had no time to wonder what it was, because a foot was kicking him over and stomping down aggresively on his chest.

"You'll regret that.", Amir promised with a snarl.

He sent one last kick to Zechs' side before he was nodding to his two lackies.

"Take him outside.", he ordered, turning to leave the room, "When you're through, cut me some of that golden hair of his. I'd like to keep it as a memento."

Zechs didn't resist as his body was lifted and dragged out of the room, being led out to the back where none of the patrons of the tavern would notice. As his eyes looked out to the busy room where men sat drinking, he had the luck of locking eyes with a younger blond. He only shook his head as he read the boy's reaction and intention, offering him as best of a smile that he could. He didn't need an innocent bystander getting mixed up in his business.

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Quatre's laughter died as he was struck with the sight of a badly beaten man being dragged out of a room. He had wanted to go after him, but the stranger had merely shook his head, offering him a smile with swollen and bleeding lips. He did as was told and stayed put, his face fitted with worry. That caught the attention of his company and they tried their best to get him laughing again.

He was offered another cup of wine and he accepted it, but chose not to drink it. He had had too much already and he was beginning to feel a bit odd. His senses were becoming fuzzy and his head was feeling lighter. It wouldn't be smart to lose sense here. A worrier Treize may be, but he was right when it came to cutthroats and bandits around these parts.

He wasn't sure when Trowa had joined them, but the boy was taking his cup away, his hand closing around his wrist. Quatre looked up to him, and his body went cold. Trowa's face held a warm smile, but his green eyes had darkened, seeming almost drowned with something Quatre didn't want to delve too deeply into.

He was gently pulled to his feet and he just as gently tried to pull himself away, but Trowa's grip only tightened. The men around him began to object and one of them took hold of his waist, pulling him back onto the bench he had been seated on.

"No you don't, Trowa.", he laughed, his arm wrapping around Quatre's shoulder, "This one's staying with us. Let the boy enjoy himself. We have more stories for him."

The men cheered and Quatre watched as Trowa's face changed for a spilt second before his smile was back in place.

"You guys have cleary gotten him drunker than the lot you.", he reprimanded, "I have to keep him safe from you drunken fools."

A couple of the men booed, while the others laughed and the one holding Quatre only snorted. He took a drink from his cup, offering some to Quatre but the prince declined. He wasn't happy with his current position, but it did feel alot safer for some odd reason.

"Let the boy decide who he'd rather keep him company.", the man suggested before looking to Quatre, "What do you say? You can stay here and drink with us. Or you can go off with Trowa, who's most likely trying to dampen your spirits."

Quatre already knew his answer and he looked to his newly aquired friend and nodded, taking the unfinished wine from the man's hand and stealing a drink from it.

"I choose you, my good friend.", he said, though either way he knew he just might regret it, "I want to live a little."

The man laughed and the others cheered, more wine being ordered in celebration. Quatre looked to Trowa whose smile promised something he didn't want and he tried his best to ignore it. Maybe he'd be able to find his way out of here before anything could happen.

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"Ambassador !"

He was lucky to have hands catch him as he had almost fallen from his horse. He was righted and he thanked those that helped him for their assistance.

"Ambassador Milliardo, are you alright?"

Milliardo turned blue eyes to the young officer that rode to his left and nodded in confirmation. He was alright, or at least he believed that he was. He grimaced as the pain that had caused him to faulter a few moments earlier returned, but luckily enough it passed as quick as it came.

"Milliardo, why did we stop?", a female voice asked.

He turned to look over his shoulder, where from the white painted and gold bordered carriage, the head of a young woman peeked out of the small window. She was frowning at him in both worry and annoyance, and he offered her a smile in hopes that she wouldn't press the issue.

"It's nothing, Relena.", he assured her, though he didn't believe his own words, "I guess I'm getting a headache. Perhaps it's from the heat? I'm not used to hot weather."

The young woman scoffed with a roll of her own blue eyes.

"Yes, well perhaps if you hadn't stopped we wouldn't have to stay much longer in this forsaken heat.", she complained, pulling her head back into the carriage, "Now I won't wait any longer! We must get to the palace immediately before I suffer from heatstroke."

Milliardo only sighed before urging his horse to move forward. If it were up to him, he would have left her behind. However, she was the main reason that they were traveling to the Middle Continent. She was the binding key to a peace treaty and he was the acting official. Without either one of them there was a certainty of war, which both kingdoms were trying to avoid.

Milliardo grimiced again as they rode past a tavern, the laughter inside loud enough to be heard over the voices of the crowded streets. The second officer to his right gently rested a hand on his shoulder, the contact asking the question he wouldn't word. He only shook his head, thankful that at least they cared for his well being.

"What on earth is taking so long!"

At Relena's screech, Milliardo only groaned. He was beginning to wish that they had somehow lost her in the desert when that sand storm hit. He gently kicked at his horse's side to encourage the animal to move just a bit faster. The sooner they got to the palace meant the faster he got rid of her.

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Trowa hadn't objected when the prince had chosen to stay amongst the men instead of following him. Had he been upset? Quite. However, he let it pass. This he could use to his advantage. So he let the prince stay and he made sure to order the strongest wine the tavern could offer. Then he returned to Vernard's side and waited.

Barely fifteen minutes passed and soon the young blond was swaying in his seat. It would seem that the young man had had too much to drink. As the boy was soon standing from the bench to excuse himself, Trowa took that as his cue.

"While I'm gone, tell the men.", he informed Vernard, "Meet me in the alleyway."

The ringmaster nodded in agreement, and Trowa made his way to Quatre's side. He caught the young royal before he could fall and began leading him away, ignoring the protests and jeers from his companions.

"Where are you taking me?", the prince slurred, effortlessly struggling against Trowa's hold.

"For a little fresh air.", Trowa explained, just as they reached the back door, "You're drunk. I can't take you home like this."

They exited the tavern into an alleyway, empty but for the occasional cat. With Quatre still trying his best to pull away from him, Trowa finally obliged, smirking as the boy fell against the wall. Glossy blue eyes glared back at him, but Trowa merely gave a low chuckle as he stepped forward.

"Stay away from me!", Quatre cried, sloppily pushing him away, "Just leave me alone!"

Trowa grasped his wrist in a painful grip, the boy gasping in hurt. He then dragged him closer, his other hand taking hold of the amulet around Quatre's neck and yanking it free. He held it up to examine it in mild interest, before looking back to wide and frightened eyes.

"It would seem the curious little bird has flown too far.", Trowa taunted with a laugh, holding the amulet up for Quatre to see it, "Didn't daddy ever warn you that there are hunters?"

He was aware from the corner of his eyes that Vernard and the other men were now joining him and he watched as Quatre visibly shrank, trying his best to pull free. Large aquamarine eyes were watering as they drew in closer and Trowa couldn't help but enjoy the look of utter fear in those eyes. If the prince was scared, then this little plan of his would work even better.

"So Vernard wasn't lying?", one of the performers asked, taking the amulet from Trowa, "He really is the prince. Ha! We lucked out this time."

"Please, don't hurt me.", the young blond whimpered, a single tear escaping, "I'll do anything, give you anything you want. Just as long as you don't hurt me."

Trowa smiled and his companions laughed, drawing in even closer.

"We were hoping you would say that."

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Zechs nearly screamed from the pain that shot through his skull and he wasn't sure if it had been from the fist that had knocked it, or that strange feeling from before. He grunted as he was thrown to the ground, landing in a puddle of murky and most likely unsanitary water. Lucky for him he was lifted again and pushed against the stone wall, his head jarring as it made contact.

He squinted as sunlight glinted off the blade of the knife that was pulled out and he tried his best to think of a way out of this.

"Don't I get a last request?", he asked.

He was given a punch to his side and he figured he'd take that as a no. So now what could he do? What he needed was a diversion. Where the hell was he going to get a diversion?

"Stay away from me!", a voice echoed down the alleyway, "Just leave me alone!"

The two men that had been assigned his execution nosily looked in the direction of the voice and Zechs sighed in relief, mouthing his thanks to the heavens. He didn't hesitate and though it pained him to do so, he charged forward, knocking one of them to the ground. Before the man could even figure out what was going on, Zechs lifted his foot and brought it down with as much force as he could onto his chest. The sickening sound of bones breaking was enough to confirm that he had managed to kill him.

His attention then turned to the only one left, who happened to be the one holding the knife. He ducked as he swung, a few strands of hair being lost in the process, but he was alive. The man swung again and Zechs managed to find the strength to lift his leg, kicking the weapon out of the man's hand.

As the brute stopped in a moment of awe, Zechs kicked again, this one aimed at the man's head. He made contact and his would be executioner fell to the ground unconcious. Not wasting any time to catch his breath, Zechs found his way to where the knife had fallen. As akward as it was to get it off of the ground, being that his hands were tied behind his back, he managed it.

Slowly he cut away at his ropes, aware of the voices that came from somewhere around the corner. He ignored them for the moment. It didn't seem like they were coming in his direction, so he would have time to escape. He'd be long gone before Amir grew suspicious and came out here to check to see if he was dead.

A few moments later the ropes finally gave way and Zechs pulled his arms to the front, massaging feeling back into his wrists. He stood from the ground, ready to head off on his way, but a scream sounded from the distance and it caused him to stop. What on earth was going on down there?

"It's none of your business.", he tried to convince himself, "Now get out of here while you still can."

He turned on his heels, ready to run away, but he only found himself turning back and running in the opposite direction.

"Damn me and my bleeding heart.", he cursed, running around a corner.

He stopped in his tracks at the sight of a large group of men. The likes of which who seemed to be troubling someone and not just anyone. Zechs recognized the boy from before. He was at the moment trying his best to fight off his attackers, who all laughed at his futile effort. It would seem he had gotten himself in quite a bit of trouble.

"Might as well help the poor kid.", Zechs muttered to himself.

With his grip tightening on the knife, Zechs stepped forward, ready to play hero.

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"Hey, let the kid go!"

The men stopped in their tracks and all eyes turned to Zechs, including Quatre's. He was at the moment caught prisoner in a burly acrobat's arms and he was grateful for the interruption. Whoever this man was had come at just the right moment, and though he knew he was here to help, Quatre couldn't help but ask.

"Please, help me!", he requested, his words nearly sobbed.

He was crying, he'd admit it, but he had reason to be. He was scared and he was pretty sure that his attackers had every intention of harming him. His rescuer didn't look in the best of conditions himself, but Quatre was desperate. He had tried to fight them off alone, but was unable to.

"What do you intend to do if we don't?", that was Vernard's voice.

Quatre watched as the ringmaster stepped forward, the blonde stranger doing the same, obviously the least bit intimidated.

"I'll do whatever it takes."

The men around him slowly began to laugh, the ringmaster laughing the loudest of them all. Quatre didn't see what was so funny. It was almost as if they were cocky.

"You want to fight for him, then we'll do as you want.", Vernard laughed, motioning someone forward, "Trowa! Make him regret his meddling."

There was nothing much that Quatre could do but watch as Trowa pushed his way forward, his green eyes gleaming maliciously as he faced off with his rescuer.

"With pleasure.", was the banged boy's words and Quatre couldn't help but shiver.

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Zechs sighed in relief as Trowa turned out to be the youngest and smallest of the men. If this was the guy he'd have to fight then he was sure he could manage it. He didn't seem that tough.

"Ready?", the green-eyed boy asked him.

If he had wanted to answer he wouldn't have been able to, as he was soon flying into the opposite wall. He was knocked breathless as he fell to the ground, not exactly sure what had just happened. When had he moved?

He wanted to stand but was unable to as hands took hold of his shirt, dragging him up from the ground. He tried to swing but was easily sidestepped and then he saw stars as a fist connected with his already battered face. It wasn't the pain that shocked him, it was the force of the hit. He couldn't help but cry in pain as he crashed into another wall, this one denting as he made imapct, debris falling to the ground. He didn't even have time to breathe before he was hit again, the punch to his gut indenting the wall even further.

"Come now, Mr. Valient.", the boy jeered, his allies cheering him on, "Do what it takes and fight me!"

He wasn't sure if to believe it or not, but he found himself thrown into the air, high enough for him to see the top of the sourrounding buildings. His eyes looked down to where this Trowa smiled up at him and blue eyes widened as the boy disappeared.

"Maybe this will teach you to mind your own business."

The voice sounded right next to him and Zechs looked to find Trowa was indeed beside him, almost as if he were flying.

"How the hell-"

His question of wonder was cut short, Trowa having sent a punch that had him crashing back down to the ground. His entire world was swarmed with pain as he lay in the large crater his body had created, the laughter above him buzzing fuzzily in his ear. He managed to look up in time to find Trowa coming for him with the intent to kill.

"No!"

The fear and desperation in that voice seemed to ring clear to him and Zechs felt the need to try a bit harder. Though he felt the need to, he didn't think he had the strength and his eyes slowly began to close.

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Quatre watched with wide eyes as Trowa drew closer, not sure what would happen next. Without much thought he lifted his arms, before bringing his elbow back down to connect with the side of the man holding him. His rash action was rewarded with his freedom and he jumped down to where his savior laid, battered and most definately broken.

"Please, you can't end like this.", he begged, his hands gripping onto the young man's shirt, "You have to fight back!"

Quatre froze as his eyes suddenly open, blue disappearing as pupils expanded immensly. He scrambled away from him with an alarmed cry, aquamarine eyes watching as his rescuer slowly stood, blond hair slowly darkening as it seemed to be blown by wind that wasn't there. The men that surrounded them watched on with their jaws dropped, a few running off scared. Trowa was unfazed it would seem, because he kept coming and Quatre grew nervous.

His nervousness quickly turned to confusion as Trowa seemed to stop midair, a foot or two away from where the now ebony haired man stood. Time seemed to have stopped around them along with the banged boy and Quatre frowned as the air seemed to tremble. He gasped as the ground began to crack, the hair on the back of his neck standing on end as the area began to crackle with enegry.

Lightening like bolts cracked through the air and Quatre couldn't move, his eyes fixed to the man a few feet away from him. He could feel the pressure building and he waited for the moment it would be released. He didn't have to wait long.

Time resumed and a large blast of what seemed to be magic broke free, purple colored light swallowing the banged acrobat who was just as baffled as the rest. Aquamarine eyes widened as the boy suddenly burst into ash, his body flying back with the backlash. When things had finally settled, all eyes were looking to the stranger, who had returned to his original appearance.

One look to the remaining men was all it took to have them running off and then Zechs was looking in Quatre's direction. The prince couldn't help but try and scramble away, his eyes still looking to the pile of dust that had once been a person.

"What just happened?"

The utter confusion that had been present in that question drew Quatre's attention to his savior, and he watched as the man stood there trembling.

"You don't remember?", he questioned, his voice small and unsure.

The older blond only shook his head, before his eyes were looking to the pile of ashes that slowly blew away in the slight breeze. He was then looking to Quatre again and the young royal felt his heart clench as Zechs gave him a look of both horror and shame.

"What have I done?"

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Duo paused in his work as he felt what seemed to be a miniscule sonic boom. At least, that's how he could try and explain it. He wasn't sure what it was, but he had felt it. He looked to Wufei, the warrior now helping him to replace the stones they had moved.

"Hey Fei Fei, did you feel that?"

"For the last time, my name is Wufei.", the Eastern boy reminded him, never stopping in his work, "And I didn't feel anything. I feel rather stupid for letting you drag me into this, however."

Duo offered his new pal a smile, aiding the boy once again with replacing the bricks. They had only a few more to go, which was great. The guards would be coming soon enough.

"Something tells me you've done this before.", Wufei worded.

Duo couldn't help but laugh. It was true he had done this once before and promised himself that he would never return. Oh well, promises were made to be broken.

The two stopped at the sound of keys, which was followed by the locks on the dungeon door tumbling. The guards had reached and they still had a few more bricks to go. Violet eyes met ebony and both nodded before their speed was doubled, each trying their best to seal the wall.

The door to the dungeaon was soon swinging open and Duo's shoulders sagged in relief as the last brick was pushed into place. Both boys heaved a sigh of relief before they were falling silent, trying to listen to what was happening on the other side.

"Where'd they go? They've escaped! Alert the men, we have fugitives on the loose!"

Duo dusted off his hands with a cocky grin and he looked to Wufei, who was now dusting off his clothes.

"Am I a genius or what?", he asked, leaning to rest on the wall.

He quickly regretted the action as the loose bricks went tumbling, revealing both him and Wufei to the handful of guards that stood out in the dungeon. Wufei offered him a glare and he gave a nervous laugh.

"You're an idiot.", was Wufei's words and Duo had no time to feel insulted.

"Yeah, yeah, later Fei Fei.", he promised, grabbing hold of the dark-haired foreigner's wrist, "It's time to go."

With that he was dragging Wufei off down a narrow tunnel, the two being chased after. If he was lucky, he'd be able to lose them before they were caught.

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They had finally reached the palace, which Milliardo had been more than grateful for. He was able to escape from Relena for just a short while as they were shown to their seperate rooms. Now he'd have time to relax and maybe take a short nap. They'd been traveling from their last camp since sunrise and he was more than tired.

As he crossed the room to head for his packs, he found himself falling to his knees as they buckled beneath him, his vision blacking. He came to a little while later, sprawled on the floor with his face pressing against the cool tile. Slowly he began to lift himself, trying his best not to move his head, which was now throbbing.

"What on earth was that?", he mumbled as he finally took to his feet.

He had to steady himself, as his legs were still weak and he decided that a nap was now first priority. Maybe their traveling had worn him out more than he thought it had. The knock on his door alerted him to his vistor and he beckoned them in, wanting nothing more than to send them away though.

It was a servant and he bowed to the ambassador before delivering his message.

"Ambassador Milliardo.", the servant greeted.

"Yes?"

"The sultan wishes for an audience with you and your kingdom's princess.", he revealed and Milliardo only nodded.

He regretted the action as his head threatened to crack and he shooed the servant away after promising he'd be there. It was a good thing he hadn't changed out of his formal robes, it would have been a pain to put them back on after removing them. He figured he'd take care of his headache after their meeting with the sultan. Relena was bound to add pain to what he was already suffering. That girl was never satisfied.

He left his room and headed for hers, unable to avoid taking in the scenery. This was nothing like the palace back home, where everything seemed to be closed in. Here there were large open windows wherever they could be fit and they always opened to a beautiful garden or breathtaking view of the city beyond the palace walls.

He stopped at a particular view of the city to stare in wonder. He had a longing suddenly to go out there and just walk amongst the rest of the kingdom's people, but he had duties. That and being a noble of sorts, it was best he stayed within the palace. It was frowned upon for him to mingle with the commoners back home, he was sure it was the same here.

"I left one prison for another.", he muttered sadly, drawing away from the scenery.

He hurried off to Relena's room, hoping that he would find it soon enough. This place was huge, bigger than the castle they'd come from, and it was easy to lose your way. Just as he rounded the corner, he collided into someone, nearly falling back. He was taken hold of however by the stranger and he was grateful for it, it would have been highly embarrassing if he had fallen on his ass.

"I'm so sorry.", he apologized, before showing his gratitude, "And thank you for catching me. If I had fallen-"

"You!"

Milliardo paused at the cry, not exactly sure what was going on.

"Me?", he questioned, looking to the man who now stared at him in bafflement.

Forked-brows knitted together in a frown as the man let him go in what seemed disbelief. Milliardo wasn't sure what to do, so he stood there as the man continued to stare at him, circling him as if he had to be sure that he was there.

"How did you escape?", the ginger-haired man suddenly asked him, "How did you get inside of the palace? Where on earth did you get those clothes?"

"Have we met?", Milliardo inquired, a bit confused himself.

"You kneed me in the groin!", the man cried and Milliardo frowned further.

"I beg your pardon?"

"Not now.", the man suddenly announced, heading off in the other direction, "I have to speak with the king, I don't have time to waste with you."

Well, that was odd. Milliardo stood there for a few minutes, still unsure of what had just happened. He decided that it was best not to think about it. With the incident pushed aside, he continued his search for Relena's room.

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Treize didn't allow himself to ponder too much the reason for why that young man was in the palace. It would have to wait until later. At the moment he had something very important to inform the sultan. Although he really didn't want to, the sultan had a right to know that his son was missing.

He entered the throne room to find the king discussing something with a guard, the man smiling in what seemed relief as he made his appearance.

"There you are, Treize.", the king greeted, sending the guard off, "I was wondering where you were? Hopefully Quatre enjoyed his day out?"

Treize stopped just before the king, unsure on how to answer that question. It did give him the opening to tell the man that his son was gone, but he wondered if he should take it.

"Your Majesty, about Quatre-"

"Yes, he is perhaps getting himself ready?", the king asked him.

Treize frowned at the question. Ready for what?

"Ready, Your Majesty?", he inquired, the king nodding.

"To meet his bride to be.", the king informed him, a bit hesitantly, "You do remember, don't you?"

Treize ignored the deflated feeling at those words, but nodded his head. Yes, he did remember. Though he rather that he didn't. The sultan and the king of the Northern Continent had agreed on peace and the marriage of their children was the final step. He was drawn from his thoughts as the doors opened and he looked to find the young man from earlier now escorting a young lady, obviously the princess.

"And there she is!", the king laughed, beckoning them closer, "A beauty isn't she, Treize? Quatre is the luckiest man on this earth."

He wasn't sure, but Treize swore he heard a snort coming from the blond man beside her and he stiflied a snicker. It would be rude to laugh. He let his eyes study the young man further, not quite sure how he had ended up here. He was sure that he would have at least sported some bruises. After all, he had seen him getting quite a beating back at the bazaar. How on earth had he managed to escape and why would a noble such as he consort with such characters?

"Greetings, Your Majesty.", the man offered with a bow, "As ambassador of the Northern Continent, may I present to you Princess Relena."

Treize watched as the young woman curtsied, her head bowing in respect. He wasn't sure why, but it felt as if he were watching a performance.

"Ah, yes. Welcome to my kingdom. It'll be a pleasure to have you here, My Lady. Let me introduce to you my royal vizier, Trieze. Treize this is Princess Relena and Ambassador Milliardo."

Milliardo? Hadn't he been called something else? Treize bowed his head at the two, offering them a small smile. The only one left to introduce was the prince, but as luck would have it, he was no where to be found.

"Now, of course you must be eager to meet your groom.", the sultan directed to the princess.

Treize grew nervous as the sultan looked to him with an expecting look and he wondered how he was going to get himself out of this one.

"Well, Treize. What is taking Quatre so long? He isn't getting cold feet is he?"

"Well, Your Majesty, I'm not sure how to explain this."

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Quatre apologized as Zechs winced, though he continued to gently clean the blood from the older blond's face. He had been afraid to even look at the young man after what had transpired, but he pushed that fear aside after Zechs had broken down. It was clear to see that he had no control of what he was doing.

The two left the alleyway before anyone could find them, Quatre helping Zechs back to the small place where he stayed. It wasn't a room so much as it was an abondoned space, the wall crumbling but offering a view of the palace. Quatre was sure not to study it, focusing his attention on his savior for the moment.

He dipped the cloth he was using into the small basin of water, rinsing it as best as he could, before reaching for the young man again. He muttered another apology as Zechs hissed in pain, the older boy gently stopping him.

"You don't have to do this.", he told him, taking the cloth away form Quatre.

The prince let him have his way, watching as Zechs began gently dabbing at his face. He was in bad shape, or at least he had been. Quatre wasn't sure if he was seeing things, but it would seem as if the older boy was healing quickly. He'd believe it, especially after what he saw happened this afternoon.

"I want to.", he finally replied, looking out to where the sun was beginning to set, "It's my way of saying thank you. You helped me, and I don't even know your name."

"It's Zechs.", the boy gave and Quatre gave a small smile.

"Thank you, Zechs. I'm Quatre."

"Don't mention it."

The cloth was discarded aimlessly, and then blue eyes were turned on Quatre, a frown fitting Zechs' face.

"So how did you find yourself in that amount of trouble?", he questioned.

Quatre felt himself blushing and he bowed his head in a show of shame. He wouldn't have been in said trouble if only he had listened to both his father and Treize.

"I was being stubborn and I didn't listen when I was warned.", he admitted, looking up to the palace, "They were going to keep me prisoner until my father paid a ransom."

"They would have killed you after they'd gotten it.", Zechs told him with a scoff.

Quatre shivered at the words, his arms wrapping about himself as he felt a bit like crying. Everything had gone wrong today and it was all his fault. He felt a hand rest on his shoulder and he looked to Zechs, who held a guilty expression.

"I shouldn't have said that, I'm sorry.", he apologized.

Quatre merely shook his head, trying his best to offer the older boy a smile.

"It's alright.", he assured him, "You're probably right. They would have killed me after they got what they wanted. They knew my father would have done anything to get me back."

"Who is your father anyway?", Zechs asked out of pure curiousity.

Quatre mumbled his answer without much thought.

"The sultan."

His hand slapped over his mouth a bit too late and he looked to Zechs, who stared back at him in wide-eyed disbelief, his jaw having gone lax.

"You mean you're the prince?"

"Please, you won't tell anyone would you?", Quatre begged, watching Zechs stand from where they sat.

"You mean to tell me that you're the prince?", Zechs continued, obviously still in shock, "What are you doing outside of the palace? Don't you know that people would do anything to get their hands on you?"

Quatre stood as well, walking closer to Zechs who only took a step back. It would seem that he was now the one afraid of Quatre. Not so much as the prince would hurt him, but Quatre was sure that he was aware of the law where commoners could not lay a hand on him.

"I didn't mean to cause you any trouble.", Quatre told him, "I just wanted one day of freedom and it turned out wrong. I should have listened to Treize."

"Treize?", Zechs questioned.

"My father's advisor. He worries over me, a little more than is usual."

"Maybe he likes you.", Zechs teased.

Quatre smiled at him, knowing the older blond was trying his best to break the glum mood. Besides, Treize couldn't like him. Even if he did, Quatre remembered that he was arranged to be married. It was the reason why he had been craving freedom as of late. Even if it was only temporary, he wanted to enjoy the feeling before he met his bride to be today.

"Oh no!", he exclaimed as it hit him, "That was today!"

"What was today?", Zechs asked him, watching as Quatre started to rush off.

"A very important meeting.", he offered, "I'm sorry, but I have to go."

He was stopped physically before he could leave and Quatre nervously looked up to Zechs. Maybe the boy was having his own thoughts of using Quatre's capture to his personal gain.

"You can't go out there alone", the older boy said, leaving to grab up two dark, hooded cloaks, "I'm pretty sure those men will be looking for you."

Quatre accepted the cloak that was handed to him, watching as Zechs threw his own around his shoulders.

"I'm going with you.", Zechs explained before Quatre could ask, "I know a safe route to the palace. It wouldn't sit right with me if I let you leave here on your own."

Quatre smiled in gratitude, throwing on the cloak that had been given to him.

"I don't know what to say."

"How about thank you?", Zechs suggested and Quatre nodded.

"Thank you, Zechs."

The older boy only shrugged, opening the door and leading Quatre out of the room.

"Don't mention it."

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

Wufei panted as they finally stopped, having been chased for who knew how long. He and Duo were able to out run the guards, so they decided on a breather. His head fell back against the wall he was currently leaning on, his eyes closing as he focused on relaxing his body. He would have never thought he'd find himself a fugitive, but it would seem that things weren't going as he had assumed they would.

He felt Duo shift and he slowly opened his eyes, only to nearly have a heart attack as he found himself nose to nose with the theif.

"Must you stand so close!", he screamed, pushing the boy away.

Duo didn't go that far, being that the tunnelway was somewhat small. Violet eyes shimmered in the darkness and Wufei glared as the boy whined about abuse.

"I thought you were alseep.", Duo explained himself with a pout, "I was only making sure you were okay."

"Well, I'm fine.", Wufei growled, his arms crossing over his chest, "I don't appreciate you hovering over me."

"Jeeze, no need to get defensive.", Duo muttered, a grin quickly taking his face, "It's not like I was going to kiss you or anything."

Wufei had no idea how or why he started choking, but his moment of spluttering quickly made way for anger as Duo began to laugh at him. This wasn't funny at all. He wanted to reach out and strangle the boy, but he decided that it was a bad idea. Duo was the only one of them who knew the way out of here and Wufei didn't want to stay here much longer.

"How about you make yourself useful and get us out of here.", Wufei suggested.

"Sure thing, Fei Fei."

Wufei's hand shot out as Duo began to walk off, grabbing the length of hair and yanking back. He was satisfied by the cry of pain and he glared at Duo as the boy looked back at him.

"Call me that again and the braid gets it."

"Not my baby!", Duo whimpered, trying to pull it free, "Alright, no need to bring my hair into this. I won't call you Fei Fei anymore."

With a smug smirk, Wufei let go, ignoring Duo as he began to baby talk with his hair. At least now he wouldn't have to deal with that rediculous nickname.

"How about Wu Wu instead?"

Wufei couldn't help but chase after the braided idiot, wanting nothing more than to strangle him.

"Duo, get back here!"

"Catch me if you can, Wu Wu!"

As the nickname echoed back to him, Wufei made up his mind. He was going to kill him.

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

In the deserted alleyway, the pile of ash that used to be Trowa had slowly begun to scatter, the gentle breeze blowing it away. It was ignored by the vagabond that passed by it, more interested in searching through the garbage that had been placed out. If he was lucky, there would be something edible in there.

As he began to dig through the garbage, he was unaware of the slight breeze that began to blow, stirring the dust along the cobbled street. At least not until it began to blow harder and he was urged to look up at the sky in wonder. There was no storm coming in, so why did the air feel so heavy?

The sound of cracking lightening caused him to jump, but there was no flash of light to follow it. Wide and frightened eyes searched around the alley, the man not sure what to do or what was going on. The wind was now howling and he had to bring a hand to cover his eyes, protecting it from the sand and dust that blew at his face.

He crouched down low to the ground, his eyes squinting against the debris, before they widened at the site of a small whirlwind taking form a few feet away from him. He watched as sowly, the dust came together, binding until the grains began to take shape. The winds howling turned into a scream of pure misery and the man cried out himself, trying to scramble away as the shape of a man became much more distinct.

With another loud crack, the wind departed and where the whirlwind had been now stood a barely whole young man. He fell to his knees, that which crumbled away as he hit the ground. The dust quickly rose again, forming the body part as if it had never fallen apart to begin with.

A pitiful moan left the boy's lips and the vagabond watched as he struggled to stand, not sure if he was able to. Then green eyes were looking in his direction and he didn't even have time to scream.

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

Trowa couldn't begin to describe the pain that he was going through as his body began to reassemble bit by bit. Bones hardened and muscles slowly took form and it seemed as if it was taking an eternity. It was over after what seemed a long while and with a final scream, he fell to the ground.

A moan escaped his lips and he tried his best to stand. What had happened to him? The young man he had been fighting, was he even a man? He had no time to think about it now, his body hadn't fully regenerated. He could feel that he was missing muscle and skin in various parts of his body, the bone exposed. He could tell he wouldn't be able to find his own parts; he would need to take it from someone else.

He looked to the lone person that was present in the alleyway, huddled against the trash and in the blink of an eye he had the man by his throat. Slowly he lifted him, the poor bum struggling to be let go but failing miserably. His green eyes stared as the man began to squirm, his body stilling as it seemed to dry up, shriveling and then blowling away in the gentle breeze leaving only a dressed skeleton.

Trowa grimaced as his musles and skin knitted together, the pain well worth it. He didn't stop until the man was only bones and he threw them aside with no remorse. He looked down at himself, satisfied with what he saw. It was true he was naked, but at least he was whole again.

He took care of his clothes problem by stealing the fiflty rags off of the dead man. Now he had to find Vernard and the others. He was sure they'd ask questions about his sudden reapperance, but he had no choice. His mind was fit for revenge and he knew just the way he would get it.

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

Zechs quickly ducked at the presence of a guard, dragging Quatre with him. Before the boy could ask him a question, he clamped his hand over his mouth to shush him, forgetting for the moment his hesitance to touch him. They waited in the shadows for the guard to pass by, both not breathing as the man stopped to stretch. As he left they both took a breath of relief and then Zechs was off leading the way again.

He stopped only when they came to the back wall of the palace, Zechs the first to begin climbing up the ivy that clung to the wall. He bid Quatre follow and the prince did as told, the two reaching the top and making sure that the coast was clear.

"This is as far as I'll take you.", Zechs announced, "I'm sure you can make it inside on your own."

He watched the blond head bob with a nod and he nodded himself.

"I can't thank you enough, Zechs.", Quatre offered with a smile.

Zechs didn't even have time to reply, the prince was flying forward and grabbing him in a hug, one that nearly sent the older boy into a panic. He didn't mind hugs, he just wouldn't have expected one from the prince. They were out in the open and if they were caught, Zechs would lose one of his hands for having come in contact with him.

He let Quatre stay for a few moments before he was gently prying him off. The prince apologized and Zechs merely shook his head. Of course the sultan would have such a law and ironically his son would be a person who just had to touch.

"Goodbye.", Quatre said in parting, beginning to climb down into the palace garden, "I'll never forget this."

Zechs only smiled down at him, watching as the boy reached the ground and ran off with a final wave. When he was gone, he took to climbing down himself. He had to go home and pack. It was about time that he moved on.

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

"How on earth could you have lost him!"

The bellowed words caused Treize to shrink and he found himself trying to explain, but not being able to offer anything that was acceptable. He finally gave up, with his shoulders slumping in defeat, a pitiful look aimed up at the stewing sultan.

"You Majesty, it's entirely my fault. I took my eye off of him and he managed to slip away."

He was aware of the annoyed "hmph" that came from his side, followed by the ambassador's attempt to calm the princess. The king wasn't the only one angry by Quatre's disappearance, Relena had become quite offended and it had taken a considerable amount of time to quiet her.

"Lord Treize."

The fact that the sultan had taken to addressing him formally meant that the man was more than upset. If he had to guess, Treize would say that he was about to get what was coming to him.

"Your Majesty?"

Before the king could start, the doors burst open and all eyes turned to find Quatre rushing in. Treize heaved a sigh of relief but then regretted it as the sultan stood from his throne.

"And just where have you been!", the king boomed, the lot of them flinching.

Treize watched as Quatre timidly stepped forward, offering his father a bow. For the moment the king's anger was directed to his son and Treize wasn't sure if he should feel thankful or guilty. He opted for the latter as the sultan offered his son a look that promised a fitting punishment.

"I'm waiting, Quatre!"

"I'm sorry, father. I somehow became separated from Trieze.", the young prince offered.

"Separated? You deliberately ran away, didn't you?"

Treize watched as Quatre nervously bit his lip before finally nodding his head in admittance.

"This is the last straw, Quatre!", the king objected, stepping down from where his throne sat, "Here we are waiting for you to meet your bride and you're out wandering the city! Do you know the danger you could have found yourself in? It was also rude of you to have the ambassador and the princess waiting!"

Treize saw Quatre look to where his father gestured, catching the brief look of confusion that took his face as his eyes landed on Milliardo. The king drew their attention to him with a sigh.

"It pains me to do this to you, Quatre, but I must."

"Father, what do you mean?"

Treize wanted to ask that question himself, but the prince had beaten him to it. They waited patiently for the king, who slowly returned to his seat before his eyes were staring down at his son again.

"From this day forth, Quatre, you are not allowed outside of these walls."

"Father, you can't do that!"

"I can and I will!", his father boomed, his anger returning, "You've disobeyed me for the last time, Quatre! Until you are king, you will not step foot beyond the palace walls or so help me you will regret it."

Treize froze as Quatre looked to him for assitance and he felt a bit ashamed that he couldn't offer him any. With a sad shake of his head, he apologized to the prince who seemed saddened by the realization that this couldn't be avoided.

"I'm sorry, Your Highness.", he offered, though he knew it was pointless, "What your father wills must be done. You can no longer leave the palace."

"Now get to your room.", the sultan ordered, his anger slowly waning, "Tomorrow you shall be properly introduced to your new bride."

"Father, please-"

"I will not hear another word! Go to your room now!"

Treize watched as Quatre stormed off, not even bothering to look back. His attention was drawn to where Relena stood, her face fit with obvious exasperation. Then it fell onto Milliardo's who seemed just as annoyed, but with the girl beside him rather than the events that had passed.

"Treize."

He looked to the king that had called him, patiently awaiting whatever it was that the man had to tell him.

"I understand that it wasn't your fault, so please forgive my anger.", he apologized calmly, before gesturing to the two visitors, "Would you please show them back to their rooms and treat them with the finest hospitality. It's the least we could do to make up for the day that was wasted."

Treize agreed with a bow and he led the two foreigners out of the throne room, though he rather felt like going after Quatre. Now that he was upset, there was no telling what the prince would do.

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

Quatre stormed into his room, slamming the doors shut behind him. He hated it here already, and now that he was bid to never leave, he was beginning to despise it with a passion. He moved to his bed, flopping onto it and curled himself around a pillow. He was much more angry than sad, so crying was out of the question. Besides, he had cried enough today.

He stopped at the sound of stone scraping, sitting up from his bed and looking around the dimly lit room.

"Hello? Is someone there?"

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

Duo rubbed at the bump he had acquired thanks to the knock to his head from Wufei. He wasn't happy, but he was glad that Wufei's threat to his hair wasn't followed through. So after some abuse to his skull, he agreed to behave and continued to travel the tunnelway. He didn't want Wufei to know, but he had thought that he had lost his way.

Then things became familiar again. So familiar that he was beginning to wonder why.

"Duo, are we ever going to get out of here?", Wufei gruffed and Duo snorted.

"Calm down, I know where I'm going."

As they reached a dead end, Duo turned back to Wufei, offering the boy a nervous laugh.

"Let me rephrase that.", he said with a shrug, "I believe that we're lost."

"Duo, you imbecile!"

Duo cried out as Wufei grabbed him by his shirt, shoving him up against the wall and both boys froze as said wall began to move. Okay, maybe they weren't lost after all. Removing Wufei's hold from his shirt, Duo took the first step inside, violet eyes glancing around at the silk curtains that slowly fluttered. Now this he remembered.

"Duo, where the hell are we?", Wufei questioned, looking around himself.

"Hello? Is someone there?"

Before Wufei could stop him, Duo was rushing his way past the curtains, revealing himself to the only occupant of the room. The boy gasped as he did so, aquamarine eyes widening at the sight of him. Now he remembered this place, this was the prince's bedroom. Wait, that wouldn't go well.

"It's you!"

Yeah, not well at all.

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

Wufei frowned as Duo cried out in pain and he rushed out from behind the curtains to see what was going on. He came to find Duo trying his best to ward off an attacking teenaged boy and it was only then Wufei noticed that it was the prince he had seen earlier. Pitying Duo only slightly, he rushed over, grabbing the boy by the waist and pulling him away.

"Let go of me!", the boy objected, still reaching for Duo, "I'll kill him!"

That was the last straw. What on earth had Duo done to have the royal family hate him so much?

"Duo, what the hell did you do?", he demanded, trying his best to keep a grip on the fighting prince.

"I didn't do anything!", Duo objected, "Well, at least nothing bad enough to deserve a bounty on my head."

Wufei rolled his eyes, knowing that whatever Duo had done was still just as bad.

"Nothing bad enough?", the prince nearly screeched, "You broke into my room a month ago and tried to have your way with me!"

Ebony eyes narrowed dangerously on the braided theif, who froze at the accustation. Had Duo really. . .Wufei wasn't sure what to believe anymore.

"I only broke into your room by mistake.", Duo corrected, beginning to pace up and down, "My original intention was to break into the treasure room. Though I'll admit, I did find a treasure all the same."

"Duo.", Wufei warned dangerously, the theif holding up his hands in defense.

"Hey, I didn't have my way with him!", Duo explained, "He was sleeping when I came in and I just wanted to have a look. I was tempted I'll admit, but I didn't do it. Blondie here woke up as I was standing over him and he screamed rape before I could explain myself."

"You were kissing me!", Quatre screamed.

"I couldn't help myself!", Duo screamed back.

"So that's why you're worth so much.", Wufei muttered, before he was looking at the prince, "Don't worry, he's not here to finish the job."

"Hey!"

Duo's objection was ignored and Wufei let Quatre go, offering the prince a bow.

"Then why are you here?", Quatre asked him suspiciuosly, and Wufei offered the boy a smile.

"Trying to save our necks. I won't lie, we escaped from the palace dungeon and we happened across your room in our escape.", Wufei explained.

"The dungeon?"

"You know, the place where you throw guys like us after they've been caught.", Duo said sarcastically, earning himself a glare from Wufei, "Anyway, we were just leaving. So don't worry Your Highness, you're virtue isn't in any danger. Come on, Wufei."

Wufei would have followed, if it wasn't for the hand that took hold of his wrist. He turned back, unable to look anywhere else but into sea-colored eyes. Duo was right, Quatre was a boy that could be deemed as pretty. He found himself flushing at the thought and he cleared his throat to try and right himself.

"Please, wait.", Quatre gently begged, "Take me with you."

"Come again?", Duo asked, moving closer to the two.

"Take me with you.", Quatre repeated, "Please, I can't stay here any longer."

"I don't think that's a good-"

Wufei wasn't sure why he had suddenly stopped in his objection, but after a few moments of his mind going blank, he came to recall the prince moving forward and pressing his lips to his in a kiss. He wasn't even sure what had transpired after, but he had a feeling that it wasn't good. Duo was giving him a smirk that was bound to have bad news follow it.

"What happened?", he questioned and Duo shrugged.

"Well, lover boy, it seems you and I have some extra baggage now.", Duo provided, motioning to where the prince was now packing, "After the kiss you gave in, goofy smile and all."

He gave in? Damn it, he knew that it was bound to be bad news. He looked to Duo who gave a laugh and Wufei resisted the urge to throttle him, settling for a glare.

"I told you he was trouble.", was all Duo told him, before heading off to help Quatre.

T.B.C.

Tada! Chapter three is now complete. Phew, that was longer than the last two. Hopefully the rest will be that long. I'm pretty sure that everybody's as confused as I am. Well, you'll just have to keep reading to see what happens and why everything is the way it is. So ciao for now and please, leave me a review. I'm dying here people, I need them now; I'm desperate! Tata!