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(Book II of the Orphanage Series) |
| Warnings And Disclaimer: Standard disclaimers apply! |
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Part One:
Duo Maxwell was not the sort of person to dwell on things, and yet he felt distinctly sad as he watched two of his best friends finally tying the knot and sealing their happiness. Trowa and Quatre looked so perfectly happy, so radiantly in love with each other… He smiled brightly at Quatre as he handed him the ring, giving the little blond a wink. You asked me to be your best man- no one’s ever cared about me the way you guys do. I’ll never forget that, and I love you, too, Quatre Winner. He watched with tears of happiness in his eyes as Trowa turned to Heero, his best man, for his ring, and placed it on Quatre’s finger. They were only words- puffs of air that carried along pitched sound waves that would disappear into nothing more than a memory. Words. Duo didn’t allow himself to look over at Heero as Quatre and Trowa repeated their vows- it hurt too much. He and Heero… Duo freely admitted to himself that he was deeply in love with his friend. He had loved him almost from their very first meeting, when he had shot the Japanese pilot and then busted him out of that OZ hospital. Heero, though, didn’t seem ready for it- he was closer to Duo than any of the others, but he had never shown anything greater than friendship for the braided boy. As for Duo, he had remained quiet about it, even when they moved in together after the war and Heero had surprisingly decided to stay on L2 with him. *** That was when it had hit him- he knew of quite a few ‘someones’ who could use the money, and he had some role models to remember by continuing their work. Returning to L2, he bought a large block of buildings in one of the worst areas he remembered from his childhood and set to cleaning them up, restoring them. At the same time, local officials began to find various famous criminals and drug ring leaders in the worst states, trussed up and waiting for them along patrol routes. None of the men ever really knew what had happened- just that they had been attacked and… Well. The Maxwell House[1] (he got a kick out of the name) was opened a year after the war ended, a home for street kids, a school, a day-care, a health clinic. Several people scoffed at the idea at first, but the hard work of its young owner had been backed by the full influence of Winner Enterprises, Inc. It gradually began to work. Duo had been very surprised when, playing basketball in the gym with some of the kids one day, he heard a familiar voice asking if there was any space on one of the teams. He turned- Heero Yuy just smiled at him as he joined the game. He moved in that night. *** He couldn’t read the look in the Japanese pilot’s eyes as they met and walked down the aisle together, arm in arm. Duo, for one, didn’t even dare to glance over at the silent boy. On this day, above any others, he didn’t want to think about it! They climbed into the second limo and Duo slapped the glass plate twice. The car sped after its twin, and the two boys relaxed back into their seats. Heero sighed, “Nice ceremony, but I hate tuxedoes! I feel like a dressed up monkey…” Despite himself, Duo felt a giggle welling up- it would do him no good to tell Heero just how good he looked in the tuxedo… “They looked so happy! They deserve it,” he said, as a way of changing the topic. Heero nodded. “They do. They had the courage to do it…” “Would you? In their shoes?” Heero shot him a look. “I don’t know, Duo.” They lapsed into silence. Heero used the time, as Duo stared out the tinted window, to observe his friend unobtrusively. The American had matured since the war- six inches taller now, and filled out so… Heero shook his head. Duo hadn’t shown even a hint of an attraction for him, and he was not going to be the fool and admit to his feelings for his best friend, only to lose the person who meant the most to him! He wouldn’t allow it to happen! Heero exited the limo first at the reception site, and extended a hand to help the braided boy out. He had grown as well- three inches taller than Duo and slightly broader at the shoulders, though still compact. They had always suited each other. Heero abruptly realised that he was still holding Duo’s hand tightly and released it, albeit grudgingly. Duo smiled at his friend and was about to say something when… “Heero! Heero- my God, it’s you! I’ve missed you so much!” They both spun around to see a blonde woman waving at them. Or rather, to be precise, waving at Heero. Relena Peacecraft had never paid Duo much attention, anyway. Duo felt his heart drop into his toes- Heero was staring open-mouthed at the picture Relena presented, her slim form sheathed in a deep blue gown that brought out the starriness of her eyes. She was stunningly beautiful,, and Heero was obviously impressed by it. The Japanese boy gave her a deep bow. “Your Highness. A pleasure.” Duo stepped forward and gave her a sweeping bow of his own. “Wow! You look wonderful Relena,” he said, with a bright smile, his old mask coming up smoothly while he crumbled inside. She favoured him with a distant smile before turning to Heero with an alluring glint to her eye. “Isn’t it wonderful? Imagine, two of our friends getting married like this! Who’s next?” She swept onto his arm with practised grace and the two passed into the reception building. Heero could feel his pulse racing. Maybe his relationship with Duo was… somewhat unclear, but there was nothing unclear about this. And Relena was beautiful. No other word for it. Duo followed with a grin plastered to his face. It was too dangerous, otherwise- he felt like dying, like crawling under the floorboards and staying there. Keep the face up, Maxwell! Quatre and Trowa deserve a happy day, and you will not ruin it for them! Or for Heero, if this is what he wants. *** Wufei grunted and pointed with his chin. Zechs followed the small gesture- and saw his sister sweeping in on Heero Yuy’s arm, a grinning Duo Maxwell bringing up the rear. So Relena was still after the Japanese pilot, so what? “And the problem is?” Wufei sighed. “Look harder, Zechs. You know them well by now.” Duo caught Wufei’s eye and trotted over towards them with a smile and a wave. Both men smiled- Duo had matured into a truly stunning individual, his long braid glistening and his handsome, flushed face spread into a smile that must have hurt, it was so wide… Zechs could see it now- the smile wasn’t right. Duo hugged the Chinese pilot close. “Hey, Wuffy! Fancy meeting you around here! Hi, Zechs!” He put his hand out for a shake. Wufei grunted, “Baka,” but it sounded so affectionate. Zechs shook the offered hand. “Great to see you, Duo. Wasn’t that ceremony something?” The braided boy gave another smile. “Beautiful! Then again, Quatre’s always been good at throwing parties… It was nice of him to include me and Heero.” The other two smiled at each other. “A subtle hint to you two?” Zechs tried. Duo sighed- Wufei and Zechs knew about his feelings for Heero- they had guessed him out early on. “He doesn’t seem too interested, does he?” All three looked at where Heero and Relena were standing, talking. She was leaning against his shoulder as though she belonged there. Wufei turned back to the still smiling American and asked, “Does he know how you feel?” Duo laughed outright at that. “Me tell him how I feel, so he can get disgusted and leave again? Too dangerous, man. I’m not willing to risk losing his friendship.” Zechs raised an eyebrow. “How about your own sanity? That smile looks like it hurts.” Duo’s grin finally faded a little. “Quatre and Trowa can’t see it, okay? I’m not going to make a scene on the happiest day of their lives, even if I am a street kid who’s cleaned up a little.” Wufei turned full on to face his friend. “You deserve to be happy, too, Maxwell. And you can delude yourself about it as much as you want, but you’re not right now, and just being friends won’t cut it.” Duo’s face shifted to a true, soft smile. “I know- you’re right, and I’m being weak, aren’t I? It’s kinda funny, actually- a guy who’s been fighting a guerrilla war since he was fourteen can’t handle something as basic as telling a guy he loves him!” Duo’s eyes closed and, when he looked back up again, the grin was firmly in place. “Hey look! They’re here!” He spun quickly to address the whole room. “The Grooms are here!” He bounded towards the doors, collecting Heero by the arm as he moved. Wufei and Zechs shook their heads as they watched him move, as energetic as ever. But Wufei’s eyes narrowed again as he watched Relena move over to stand next to the Japanese boy. Heero was leaning towards Duo, their bodies brushing together as they waited. How was it that Heero could be so oblivious to both his and Duo’s feelings? And what on Earth were they going to do to get the two together? Zechs recognised the look- Chang Wufei had a mission. He could guess what the mission was, and he smiled evilly as the couple walked in and the room was drowned in applause. He would be more than happy to provide backup for this mission! *** He looked over at his friends as he thought of responsibility. They all knew the meaning of the word- it was something they knew far better than they should. Quatre felt warm and toasty as he considered how happy he was- they had all survived, and now he was married to the man of his dreams, crazy about him… A light frown creased his brow as he felt his heart give a slight ache, and he looked over the other pilots more carefully. They all looked happy and normal… What is wrong with this picture? Who is it… Sharp aqua eyes focused suddenly on a single face, the one that was half turned to watch the dancers, especially a particular couple… Heero and Relena. Quatre felt his Spaceheart give a sudden lurch as he looked back to Duo. The braided boy was doing a good job of hiding it, but he was quietly watching his best friend’s every move and, even more closely, each of Relena’s gestures. Watching… jealously? “Quatre?” He looked up into the troubled green gaze of his new husband. Quatre forced out a smile. “Yes, Trowa?” The taller boy sat next to his husband. “What is the matter, little one? I know that look-“ Quatre shook his head- he’d never been good at hiding anything from Trowa. “Trowa- did Heero… has he said anything about him and Duo?” The green eyes narrowed slightly. “No- I just assumed…” Quatre let out a low laugh. “Well, look at that, then.” Trowa’s eyes followed the subtle point to where Duo sat and quietly watched the dancing couple. The unibanged boy let out a low whistle. “Not good, not good at all.” Quatre leaned heavily against Trowa’s sturdy shoulder. “Duo… well, he’s obvious, but has anyone ever found out how Heero feels? I mean, look at him with Relena…” Trowa smiled gently. “As much as I hate to see him in pain, I think Duo’s got this one right- Heero’s got to figure out his feelings for himself.” A devilish smile on Quatre’s angelic face. “That doesn’t mean we can’t give him little hints… does it?” Trowa returned the little look. “Little hints… I don’t see why not. Let’s talk to Wufei, shall we?” Part Two:
She was screaming and crying- a little girl. And there, right next to her, in a pool of blood… Duo put on an extra burst of speed, silently blessing the saint who was keeping him as fit as ever. Sharp violet eyes scanned the street carefully as he darted forward and pulled the child into his arms, so she was looking away from the messy scene. It had been a head shot. Professional. Others had come running from the Centre upon hearing the child’s voice, and Duo handed the sobbing girl off to one of them with instructions to keep all the kids inside as he turned back to the street. He approached the small body, fighting down the lump in his throat. He had seen this picture far too many times in the past, the ghastly end of someone who should have lived to grow up, fall in love… He knelt next to the body and examined it- the body had fallen forward, so the bullet must have… He felt a prickling of the hairs on the back of his neck as he spun, pulling his own weapon as reflexes that had earned him his nickname flashed into effect- he sighted and shot once. The man he hit screamed as he fell. Gun extended in front of him, Duo advanced carefully on the man. His aim was as good as ever- he had hit the shooter’s shoulder and disabled his firing arm. He felt the familiar rise in adrenaline as he faced the guy, his face hardening into a smiling mask. The face of Shinigami. “Who are you?” The man’s face was contorted in pain, and Duo mentally brushed this one away as a gomer- he had no pain control. The man sputtered a little. “Know who you are- you own this place… asshole…” Duo laughed. “Such language! Get up, unless you want me to shoot again!” The man lurched to his feet and launched himself at the American pilot. He froze as he moved though- the smile stayed fixed in place, and a devilish gleam lit the violet eyes of Duo Maxwell… Duo side-stepped and grabbed the extended fist arm, yanking it forward hard and pulling his attacker forward and off balance. His free fist slammed into the assailant’s mid-section, neatly folding him over, before both fists came down into the man’s back, dropping him to the pavement, senseless. Sirens were blaring now as the police pulled up, and Duo turned back to the small body, pulling off his jacket to drape it over the kid. The local cops knew that he went around armed- they probably had heard a rumour of who he really was, as well. They definitely knew what Heero was, though the other boy… Duo blocked the thought out- it wasn’t a time to focus on that! He’s out with her… Duo furiously silenced the little voice in his mind. He stood to face the approaching officers, calling them over with a wave of his hand. The foremost of them shook his head sadly- a little kid was dead. “One of yours, Mr. Maxwell?” Duo nodded. “The shooter- over there. He’s been shot, too- he was aiming at me, so I…” Another officer chuckled darkly as he looked. “You made a perfect shoulder shot and beat the hell out of him. Have you been training with your quiet friend again, Maxwell?” Duo gave a light sigh. “Something like that. We’ve got a little girl who witnessed the original shooting…” The lead officer nodded. “We’ll need to see her when she’s calmed down a little. Shit! After everything you’ve done here!” He looked angrier than any of his men had ever seen him. Duo laid a surprisingly strong hand on the man’s shoulder. “If you want the opinion of a local busybody,” he said with a quirky look- everyone knew he was more than that- “this was just an opening. Someone’s lost a lot of turf for this place and is making his presence known. No other reason to kill a kid.” The man calmed at the thought- if that was so, then he and his people would be very busy. “I hope you’re wrong, Maxwell. Go on inside- we’ll come for your statement and to see the girl after we’re done cleaning up here.” Duo turned to enter his complex and his face faded to a dark frown. Someone had dared to touch one of his kids. Someone had presumed to intrude on Shinigami’s space. Someone would have to pay. *** “This news just in- a shooting shocked the neighbourhood this afternoon, at the Maxwell House. An unknown assailant shot and killed four year-old Marie Harris while she played in the street with five year-old Jessica Lewis…” Relena felt a wave of concern as she watched all colour drain from Heero’s face as the report continued. “Owner Duo Maxwell had come out to investigate and calm little Jessica when the assailant apparently tried to shoot the young man, as well…” Heero pulled out a cell phone and began dialling, no longer listening to the report and deaf to Relena’s worried questions. “Yuy here. Where is he?” The voice at the other end of the line sounded relieved to hear from him. “Thank God it’s you, Mr. Heero! I’ll fetch Duo away from the cops- one second!” The line was silent for a moment, and then, “Heero! Heero, someone hit one of my kids!” The Japanese boy was sincerely worried. “How about you? Are you alright? He didn’t shoot you…” A light chuckle. “Shoot me?! Nope- whoever his boss is isn’t that lucky, man.” Heero heard the meaning behind the words. Whoever the boss is is gonna wish he had never been born when Shinigami is done with him! He sighed- Duo was going hunting. Alone. I don’t like this! Why do I have to be so worried? He’s more than capable- I daresay he’ll do as well as I would in his place… Duo’s voice- “Heero, are you there?” The Japanese boy shook his head. “I’m here, sorry.” Duo sounded concerned, but determined. “Where are you? I’m sorry to interrupt you, but we might need a little help here.” Relena frowned as Heero automatically answered, “Relena and I are in the shopping district. I can be there in…” Duo cut him off, abruptly even for Duo. “It’s okay- I know you wanted to see her. It can wait. Maxwell out.” The line was cut. Heero frowned at the little box in his hand. What was that?! What the… Relena squirmed in her seat. “What did he say?” The little rat! What sort of claim could he possibly have on you, Heero? Heero looked up. “He thinks someone is making a move on his Centre- he wants to go hunting.” Go hunting? So the little gutter snipe is still a killer, even after the war is over? Still, it was to be expected from such a one as that. Relena smiled easily. “He should leave it to the police, the idiot! Why else do we pay them so much?” Heero reeled a little. “A child was just murdered, Relena. A little girl. An innocent.” Her eyes widened. “But the man who did it has been arrested…” “Relena,” he replied evenly, “The man they caught is a nobody. Whoever did this is after something and can afford to lose a man like that. Duo’s in danger.” He pulled his jacket from the back of his chair. She frowned prettily. “Where are you going?” “To help him,” Heero answered, pulling out his wallet to pay for their coffees. “He said it can wait, but it can’t, and he needs someone else there.” Relena put a hand on his arm, restraining him gently. “If he said he didn’t need you there yet, I’m sure he meant it. Please sit down.” Heero shook his head. “Get your hands on his file and read it, Relena. Then you’ll understand why he needs someone there. Have a nice afternoon.” He turned and walked out the door, inwardly seething. An innocent! And a nightmare right out of his childhood! He sounded so relieved when we spoke- so why did he push me away? The Japanese boy started up his car and quickly pulled into traffic. *** Duo drove quickly, calmly navigating the traffic around the busy precinct. Even with all his help, all Jessica could seem to remember was a sudden loud noise and then blood and… The girl had screamed and screamed until he had feared she would hurt herself. Dammit, this wasn’t supposed to happen! It was supposed to be over! His eyebrows shot up into his hairline as he recognised the car parked at the curb in front of the Centre- Heero was back? But he had been out with Relena… He flinched- Relena. If she was here, too… They walked in to a rare and tender scene- Heero sat, surrounded by five year-olds, as he held up several origami animals… he was telling a story?! Josie cleared her throat gently and little heads swung their way as Heero looked up and gave his friend a gentle smile. I’m here for you, Duo. Just for you. “Mr. Duo! Miss Josie!” The two found themselves surrounded by kids as the crowd surged over towards them. Duo laughed and hauled one child up onto his shoulders as he was surrounded. “Hi, kids! I hope you’ve been behaving nicely for Heero…” They laughed up at him. “He was telling us a story! With animals…” “Yeah, and an angel…” Duo smiled over at Heero, feeling such a surge of relief and warmth in him that he momentarily was worried he’d collapse. Heero would understand- I didn’t want to leave the Centre unguarded, but he gave up his time with her to be here. He cared enough to do that. Heero felt a bizarre warmth in his belly as his eyes met the shining violet ones of the American pilot- he had done the right thing. It was well worth it to see the look Duo was now wearing. Relena would just have to understand that this was a priority for him, even more so than their friendship. Duo had to come first. “Okay, all you monkeys! I think it’s snack time, so let’s go, okay?” Josie asked. The two boys were left alone as the kids bounced out with the young redhead. Duo seemed to almost collapse in on himself as the last of them left, and Heero hurried to the other boy’s side. “Daijobu?” Despite the fact that he was leaning heavily on Heero’s shoulder, Duo responded, “Hai, daijobu. I’ll be fine, thanks. It’s just…” Heero steered Duo towards a couch and sat him down carefully before sitting himself. “I’m sorry, Duo. I know what this means.” It had taken a long time, but Duo had opened up to Heero on a cold, snowy Christmas evening during the war, when the two had been holed up together in a miserable little house in the Russian countryside. Heero had been frankly shocked to find that the ebullient American had gone through so much and seen so many things, and yet was still so positive and lively. So strong. It was something he had admired for quite a long time now. Duo looked up after a minute of quiet contemplation. “They’re after me, you know. I’m the one who unseated the local kings, and someone wants the territory now. I’m the one who’s in the way.” “You mean we’re in the way,” Heero responded. “Don’t forget about me, partner.” Duo’s eyes widened. “Heero, I…” Speechless, he hugged the other boy tightly to his chest. Heero’s arms came up and around the American. It felt right. Now if he could only work up the guts to tell him… The private phone line rang, and Duo was up like a shot to answer it. “Maxwell.” There was a moment of quite before the reply came. “Lost a kid today, eh? Shame. More will have to go, if you don’t leave.” Duo’s hand tightened around the telephone receiver. “If you have a problem with me, you’re welcome to come to me about it, personally. There was no reason to hit a kid, man.” Whoever was at the other end of the line gave a rough laugh. “But now you know that I’m serious, Maxwell. You’re in my way here. You’ve been warned.” The line clicked off. Duo slammed the phone down so hard that both the receiver and the cradle shattered. “You fucking bastard! When I’m done with you…” Heero stood in a fluid motion and went directly to Duo’s laptop, finding what he wanted in less than a minute. “The guy was calling from…” “He’s not there anymore,” Duo quietly cut his friend off. “Whoever this is is smart enough to keep his distance. They don’t know who cleaned the neighbourhood out, but I’m sure they’ve got a few ideas about it. We’re safe, for now.” The Japanese boy grunted. “We’ll protect this place, I promise you.” He caught Duo as the braided boy seemed to collapse and silently carried him to the couch, setting him down gently and running one hand through the American’s long bangs.
Part Three:
The braided boy shook his head. “A small clue- the man who did the shooting was put through… a lot of questioning. He was hired for the hit by someone calling himself Warlock. When I was a kid, there was a guy called Warlock who controlled the area of town about a click or so to the west of the Centre. Nasty character. Liked little boys.” Zechs cringed. “Right. Anything else?” Duo nodded. “Warlock died about six years ago when a certain Death God went on the rampage. So whoever is using that name… it isn’t the real guy- he’s just evoking a reputation.” Preventer Wind gave a light laugh. “I’d ask if you’re sure he’s dead, but I’ve seen your handiwork before, Duo.” They were interrupted by a knock at the door, before Wufei, also in Preventer uniform, walked in with Heero. The Chinese boy gave Duo a quizzical look. “Heero’s been telling me about someone named Warlock.” Duo smiled. “Yep- just told Zechsy about him, too. I think this incarnation needs to meet Shinigami, as well.” The others shivered- it wasn’t a normal smile. It made Zechs’ skin crawl. Wufei asked, “Why did you kill off the original, apart from that he was a snake?” Duo glibly replied, “He hurt someone, and I got mad.” “When you were eleven?” Duo cocked an eyebrow. “So what? I’ve always told you guys that I’m not a nice person. Now you just know it’s true.” The two Preventers wisely shut up- Duo wasn’t telling them the complete truth, and he was well capable of brushing their questions off until Doomsday, if he wanted to. Maybe they’d be able to wheedle the answers out of Heero later on. Zechs turned to the Japanese boy. “Where were you when the attack took place, Heero?” “At lunch with Relena. Why?” He missed it as Duo frowned sharply. “Just wanted to know,” Zechs replied easily. He yawned heavily. Duo’s smile instantly returned. “Hey guys, I’m sorry- you must be real tired. It’s a long flight out here, I know! Come on- we’ll find you a room…” Wufei had no choice but to follow as the American began a steady stream of chatter. They still had questions, but they were being summarily dismissed. Both knew what that meant. It was time for Shinigami to go on the prowl, and the law had to be far away when and if he got to his prey. They complied and silently wished him luck. As the door closed, Wufei whispered, “Happy hunting, you two.” *** Duo’s black-clothed form slid out and towards his unsuspecting prey as silently as death. Heero belatedly noticed that Duo’s hands were empty, both the combat knife and the automatic pistol apparently still hidden away. Bare-handed? Oh, my poor Duo, I’m so sorry about this… Heero’s heart lurched into his throat as the braided boy made a quick jump and knocked his target down flat, one fist slamming into the man’s back to crack at least a couple ribs, from the sound of it. Heero caught a glint of metal as Duo’s arm came back- he was wearing brass knuckles. Another fist shot forward and grabbed the man’s head by his hair, hauling him back off the pavement and tossing him negligently into a wall. Only now did Shinigami draw out his combat knife, allowing his prey to see its cruelly gleaming edge as he stalked forward, still silent. The knife extended so its tip rested on the other man’s throat, Duo finally asked, “So who’s your boss?” “Jesus, man, just leave me alone! I swear, I don’t know nothing about no one!” he squeaked as the knife tip pressed into exposed flesh. Duo’s voice was still soft and reasonable- Heero was certain that he was smiling, with that eerie gleam in his eyes, too. “I won’t ask again. Do you understand me?” The man sputtered, unable to get away from the darkened figure in front of him. Fear won out in the end. “I- I’ve never met the boss, man, you’ve got to believe me! He’s… someone new- Warlock! No one else knows what the hell is up…” “How do you mean?” The knife pressed again. The man’s eyes were wide with fear. “That damned Centre! The whole area was cleaned out and no one knows how, man… Warlock’s got orders, man!” Duo’s free hand shot forward and grabbed the man by the throat as he re-sheathed the knife. “Warlock takes orders? From whom?” “I don’t…” Duo roughly backhanded the man, sending him reeling into a pile of trash, sputtering and cursing. The man came back up with a knife in his hands and murder in his eyes… Duo whirled quickly, his heel connecting sharply with the man’s wrist as the knife clattered to the ground- the wrist was badly broken. “Who’s giving the orders?” “Fuck you, man! Fuck you- I ain’t saying nothing!” The man refused to cry, despite the pain. He wouldn’t… “Suit yourself.” Duo shuddered as he expertly slashed the man’s throat. The same sickening sound- he could hear the air escaping through the gaping hole in the man’s neck, the sound of a set of lungs choking on blood… he dropped the body. Heero emerged from the shadows and stared dispassionately at the body. It was nothing new to either boy- Heero had seen the Perfect Assassin at work many times before… and then watched him collapse inside as he considered what he had done. He’s gonna suffer for this… Duo’s voice was still frighteningly calm. “It would seem I have an enemy, Heero.” He finally turned. Heero nearly cried out at the hurt and anguish in the beautiful violet eyes- Duo’s rage had passed, and he was now looking at another body, another sacrifice to his inner rage and pain. He stepped forward and spun the other boy away from the grisly scene. “Does anyone local know about us?” he asked, trying to pull Duo’s mind away from the act he had just committed. “Us? Oh- you mean the Gund… Heh. No, no one. The local cops suspect something, but they have no reason to make that connection. But that’s not necessarily it.” He stopped speaking and looked around. “Let’s get outta here, okay?” “… Too late for that, buddy,” a voice slurred from his right. Acting on some sort of sixth sense, Heero threw himself onto Duo and rolled both of them away. Both boys were vaguely aware of the bullets showering the air they had occupied only seconds before. Heero came up, gun in his hands, into a low crouch, and fired twice. Duo heard a stifled scream as he rolled to his feet, his own weapon trained on the target- Another body on the pavement, two new holes in its chest. The man was still breathing, though. Heero approached and kicked the target’s chest coldly. “And who might you be?” “Taking the law… in your own hands… should be leaving it to the police…” the man coughed painfully, only to spit up more blood. He looked up at Duo. “Gutter rat.” Slipping back into the Centre, Heero carefully got the two of them up to their rooms and slipped into Duo’s quietly. Sitting the other boy down, he knelt in front of him. Duo was still pale, but he looked… less shell-shocked. Heero cracked an ice pack and placed it on the bruised hands in Duo’s lap. “Now,” he asked as gently as he could, “Care to tell me what the hell that was?” Duo took a moment before looking up. He refused to avoid the question- Heero deserved to know. “He called me gutter rat, Heero. That’s the thing- no one here knows about my past, unless someone’s been giving out my file. And if that’s true… there are lots of people who’d love to get their hands on me, let me tell you.” “That’s not all.” It wasn’t a question. Duo shuddered. It wasn’t all, not in the least. His voice shook as he replied, “The last person to hold a gun on me in that alleyway was… him.” “Oh.” Heero suddenly understood why Duo hadn’t pulled his own gun immediately. Tear-filled violet eyes suddenly turned up to meet Heero’s cobalt blue ones. “Thank you, Heero.” “What for?” Duo cracked a small smile. “You saved my life back there.” Heero gave a small smile of his own in reply. “You once told me that I would get to kill you, remember? Can’t let anyone take that away.” Duo chuckled ruefully. You will, if you keep looking at me like that. He cleared his throat- the conversation was getting too dangerous for his taste. “So… I guess we have some detective work to do tomorrow, eh?” Heero suddenly looked apologetic. “Umm, well, actually, Relena and I are heading to one of her functions tomorrow. But I’ll help in the morning, at least.” Just when you think you’re not dreaming, that he does like you, this happens. Figures. Duo felt his heart freezing in his chest and did his best to smile at his friend. “Of course- you have a life, too, right?” Heero felt his heart ache as the coldness of Duo’s tone- what did he say now? “I can cancel it, Duo. She doesn’t need me there…” “No,” the braided boy responded, smiling as he recovered his composure, “You gave your word and I know how you hate to break it. You help me more than enough already without getting involved in this. They probably don’t know about you yet.” But if they’ve been casing me, why wouldn’t they have looked into him as well? My records are as hard to find as his- am I on to something here? He pulled Heero into a hug, wrinkling his nose a little at the heavy smell of grime and gunpowder on both of them. “Bauk! I think you need a bath, Yuy. I’ll see you in the morning, okay?” Heero stood and nodded. “Alright. But Duo?” “Hm?” “Try and get at least a little sleep, alright? I don’t want to have to drug you.” Duo looked up to find his friend smirking at him- damn him, Heero was serious about this! And he looked so good… Duo smiled. “I promise. Now git!” Part Four:
He had wondered how Duo had gotten the new information he had shared with them that morning- now he knew. Returning to the Centre, Zechs smiled as he got a chorus of ‘good morning’s’ from the children, gathered around Josie. He had to admit that Maxwell had truly accomplished something with this project, if there was a way that these kids could be given the chance to live a better life… Wasn’t that what they had all fought so hard for? He knocked on the office door and waited for an answer before entering- Duo was on the phone as he walked in. “… I understand that, Captain, but I will not let threats like those disturb our programme here. The Centre remains open,” the braided boy stated resolutely. Zechs took a seat next to Wufei as Duo paused in his statement to listen to whatever was being said. The braid flew as Duo shook his head. “I can protect these kids, sir, even if it means hiring security guards, I can and I will. They have nowhere to go! How can I shut down, can you tell me that?!” Another pause. “Well, yes, that would be appreciated. Fine- I can accept that much.” Duo seemed to sink back into his chair. “I’ll be expecting them in an hour. Thanks.” The communication ended. Wufei raised an eyebrow. “You’re getting police guards?” Duo nodded. “Yeah- they insist. Sometimes I just wish I had old Shinigami back here…” Wufei smiled ruefully. “Right. And what could that solve right now?” Zechs smoothly interrupted the little argument, “What were the man’s exact words, Duo? About Warlock?” The braided boy’s eyes reflected pain and guilt for a moment as he clasped his hands over the desk. “He said that the whole area was cleaned out and no one knew how, that Warlock had orders. But the fact that the other guy knew something about my past- either this Warlock knows, or his employer does. That means someone with access- my file’s as hard to get your hands on as either of yours’.” Wufei sat back, his eyes narrowing. “Do you have any enemies high up?” Duo sighed, his eyes closed. “Right now- I can’t be sure. But anyone who knows that I was a Gundam pilot is a suspect, as far as I’m concerned. Either that, or a local drug gang, but that seems less likely. They don’t have the resources to throw people away like whoever this guy is.” Zechs arched an eyebrow. “Besides, it’s being kept quiet. If someone simply wanted to discredit you, they would have leaked the info on you to the press and let it work itself out from a safe distance. This feels like more of a personal thing.” The vid phone rang, and Duo took a second to compose himself and pull out a smile before answering. “Maxwell here… Hey, Quatre! What’s up, buddy boy?” The two Preventers crowded close to see the smiling blond and his new husband. Quatre’s soft tenor reached out to them- “Hi, Duo! Guys! How is it going? We just heard here…” Duo’s eyes looked like they might break, they were so brittle. “Someone wants to get at me and killed one of my kids. So you could say I’m not happy, man.” Quatre’s face fell into troubled lines as he felt the pain and anger of his American friend. “We just caught the news and… they said that someone tried to shoot you, too. Are you alright?” “Yeah- I’m just peachy.” Trowa raised an eyebrow. “What do you know, so far?” Duo was about to speak before Wufei shook his head and put a restraining hand on his friend’s shoulder. “No, we shouldn’t discuss the case over an open line, gentlemen.” Trowa’s visible eye gleamed in concern. “We’ll be there in a few hours if you need us there.” Duo gave them a smile. “I appreciate it, guys, and I’ll call if we need any more back-up. Right now, I just need to figure out what I’m up against.” Quatre nodded- Duo was right. “Okay- just don’t forget that we’re here, alright? Keep us informed. Winner out.” Wufei stood gracefully as the screen went blank. “Well, we have some things to check in on. Let’s get Yuy over here and…” “Heero’s out right now,” Duo interjected quietly. “He had an engagement with Miss Relena, but he’ll be back this afternoon.” He hoped that he didn’t look as bitter over that as he felt. “Come on! There are secure computers this way.” The other two followed without comment- What on Earth is Yuy doing out with her when all hell is breaking loose here? The unfeeling… Whoa! Is this for real? Duo had led them into a hidden room behind his office wall- they recognised several of the computer systems and link-ups in the rather spacious room as being similar to others back at Preventer headquarters, and not a few that seemed to be even more hyped up… Zechs let out a low whistle. “This is quite a set-up, Duo. I take it you like to keep informed.” The braided boy was smiling evilly. “Yeah- once a terrorist, always a terrorist, I guess. I like being connected, you know.” He walked over to a terminal and typed in a few commands. “There- you two are cleared for this system now. “Here’s something interesting I cooked up this morning, though- there’s a shipment of arms coming in, big stuff, like what someone would use against me, knowing who I am.” He tapped a monitor. “It’s possible that this stuff is meant for our friend Warlock and, if so, that he’s planning to move on us, here. Soon.” Duo moved to a coffee machine and poured himself a mug, drinking it off black. No wonder he’s always so wired! Wufei gestured at the screen. “So we can find Warlock, then. Doesn’t really help much- whoever’s behind this all can cut his man loose easily. I’d much rather find out who authorised the shipment, wouldn’t you? That’s who we should be looking for.” Zechs looked up from the terminal he was sitting at. “Maybe, but we’ll have to sift through the crap to get to the real guy- could take time.” Duo stood abruptly. “Well, then here’s the plan- I protect this place in any way I can, and you guys find the big bad wolf. How does that strike you?” The two Preventers looked at each other and then nodded. It wasn’t much of a plan, but it would do. *** Heero looked troubled. “We don’t know much of anything yet. He’s alright- rocky, but holding together.” She dismissed the thoughts quickly. “No doubt the police will find the culprit quickly, then! So… thanks for coming along to this meeting- I can never be too sure about these L2 leaders. They all have… shady pasts.” Heero wondered about that statement. L2 leaders- yes, they were all criminals, at root. Not that most politicians weren’t, for that matter, but they were indeed a stranger breed of it here. And any one of them could be after my Duo… He was suddenly happy to be there, watching them all. Heero Yuy lapsed into silence as he contemplated it- anyone who was ready to harm Duo was already dead. They just didn’t know it yet. *** He smiled at them all. “Hey, come on over here, all of you.” He waited until all of them were seated around him before continuing. “Okay, so I want to tell you all a little story. There was a boy who lived here once- nice kid, kinda loud-mouthed, but his heart was in the right place. Anyway, he lived in an orphanage sort of like this one, only it was run by a priest and a nun, and they were two of the nicest people he had ever met. They took very good care of him and many other boys and girls. “Then one day, rebels went into the church and orphanage and demanded protection and help. Well, the little boy listened to them and thought that he could steal them a mobile suit and they would go away and leave the orphanage in peace. So he did it.” Duo fixed each of them with an intense stare as he continued. “But it was too late. By the time he got back, the place was gone- it had been bombed and destroyed, rebels, orphans and all. The boy hadn’t been able to protect them at all, and it really hurt him.” He smiled at them now. “So he’s grown up now, and he would want to keep everyone safe. He can do it, now, but it means that he has to know where they are, all of them. No one’s gonna get any more of you, but you all have to help protect yourselves, because there are some really bad people out there. D’you get it?” He got several nods, and he smiled. He felt someone tugging on his braid, and he looked over with a raised eyebrow. The boy smiled at him sympathetically. “Did you ever find the people who did it? Did you get them back?” Duo shuddered as he saw the reaction that the very thought of violence brought out in these kids. He sighed. “The people who did it… have been brought to justice, yes. But kids, I don’t want you to get the wrong message here. Some of you are too little to remember the War clearly, but violence was not the answer. The bad people who took Marie from us… they don’t understand that. There is power in force, but there is more power in understanding. That’s how the Gundams won, in the end- they fought to bring understanding, and they’re gone now, since no one needs them, anymore.” Another child piped up, “But a Gundam pilot wouldn’t allow these guys to hurt us, would he? He would find them and make them stop!” There was a chorus of ‘yeah’s’ from the others. Duo finally smiled again. “Yes, he would, I’m sure of it. Just like I will, but I need you to help me, okay? I want you to stay here- Heero and I will go and get the ice cream, okay?” There were smiles everywhere as the kids consented. Duo stood carefully and left them to organise their game of volleyball. Wufei smiled at him from his place by the wall. “I heard your little talk. Very well put.” Duo smirked. “A compliment? For me? Why thank you!” Wufei’s smile faded as they walked. “As we suspected, whoever authorised and paid for that shipment is well-hidden. Zechs is still at the search.” Duo stopped his friend and hugged him gently. “Thanks, both of you. You have no idea how good it feels to know that I’m not alone on this one.” Wufei pulled back from the hug. “You were never alone on it, Maxwell. Yuy has been here the whole time,” he chided gently. Duo smiled shamefacedly. “Yeah, but I can’t help feeling as if his being with her is more important to him than being here. I think I’ve lost him, Wufei. And it’s obvious that she could care less about me or the Centre!” The Chinese pilot couldn’t help agreeing with his friend- Relena didn’t care what happened to the American, nor did she seem overly concerned with the Centre, as long as Heero wasn’t there. “It’s not like you to give up so easily, Maxwell.” Duo shrugged. “I love him too much to take this decision from him, Wufei. If he wants her, well, it’ll hurt, but I’ll live.” They entered the hidden office quickly, and Zechs turned from his screen to nod to both in greeting. He began without preface, “Well, the funds originated on Earth, but that doesn’t really tell us much, I’m afraid.” Duo leaned over the check the tracing so far. The funds had been transferred anonymously, no surprise there, from one of the largest banks in the world. Duo still kept tabs on all major terrorist groups and clandestine organisations- he knew that several of them housed their funds at this one, though he was certain that the banks themselves didn’t know this. He was even more certain that none of those were responsible- this was personal, somehow. What could he have possibly done to piss off a big wig? The phone rang, and he picked it up quickly. “Maxwell.” “Hi, Duo. It’s me.” He felt a flash of heat wash over him as he recognised Heero’s voice over the line. Duo smiled. “Ohayo, Heero. What’s up?” “Just worried, that’s all. Is everything okay?” Duo flushed- Heero was truly concerned for him- he could hear it in the voice. “For now, yes. We’ve got a possible lead, but it’s taking half of forever to trace it out. You know the drill.” Heero’s voice sounded ashamed over the line. “I’m sorry- I would help if I was there, you know that.” Duo’s smile was bittersweet. “I know. How is Relena?” “She’s fine. And none of these guys pose any threat whatsoever. I don’t really know what I’m doing here.” Duo frowned. Following your heart, maybe? “When will you be home?” Home- you belong here, Heero, with me. I’d at least like to think so… The answer sounded even more depressed. “Not for another few hours- they just brought up another trade issue to squabble about.” Duo fought back his tears. I need you here! Why aren’t you here? He forced a cheerful tone. “Well, we’ll keep plugging away at what we have, and see you later. Take care and be careful.” “You, too, Duo. Yuy out.” Duo sighed as he hung up the phone. *** The streets of L2 were completely dark and cold- he blessed Wufei and Zechs for insisting that he wear a thermal suit. As much as he hated to admit it, it felt good to slip Shinigami’s mask back on again, to prowl out into the streets. The training would never go away, and he knew that this was where he was most effective. And he had a mission to complete. He approached the transfer area cautiously, unseen. The darkened warehouse was a perfect place for such a transfer- the police never ventured too far into this district at night. And it would have been impossible for any intruders to get in unnoticed. Duo smirked. Any intruders other than himself, of course. He flattened himself against a wall as an outer door opened and several vehicles pulled in- two trucks and four sedans. He quickly memorised the licence numbers as men began to emerge, toting heavy weapons like talismans. Even as Duo grinned, he took a mental note to remain out of sight- it would not do to get shot! From his vantage point he could see everything quite clearly- two men seemed to be the leaders, one short and paunchy, the other of medium height, lanky, with greasy-looking, short black hair and a leering face. This guy spoke first. “I trust it’s all here?” The larger man huffed. “Of course it is! I’ve been paid to deliver all the merchandise and I like my job, man. Still, you can inspect, if you like.” The leering man walked over to the trucks with several of his men, and they began to check off everything in the vehicles. Duo made a mental note of everything delivered- even if this wasn’t his real target, he was certain the police would be interested in this information! As the leering man emerged from the second truck, the fat man asked conversationally. “So… do you guys know what happened to the original Warlock? You’re wearing a damned name, buddy!” That’s him, then. This man is my enemy… The leering man almost snarled his answer, “Doesn’t matter! He fucked up- I won’t make the same mistake!” Duo memorised the face- this was one of the people responsible for bringing his nightmares back to life. You are out of your league, little man! And now that I know what to expect… He smirked as he pressed the button on a remote detonator and a small explosion outside brought all heads around. Shinigami rolled under the first sedan and pressed a homing beacon onto its undercarriage, quickly switching it on- he wanted to know where the lion’s den was, in case he would have to go looking for them again sometime. He doubted it, but it was always possible. He was almost certain that they would be coming for him, and soon. He paused in his extraction as he heard the voice again. Yes- it was the same person who had called him the day before. Anyone who messes with Shinigami is dead, my friend. I’ll be waiting for you, remember that… Duo melted back into the shadows after the vehicles pulled away. The arms dealer had a surprise waiting for him when he reached his den- the Preventers would be there waiting for him. But not Warlock. Warlock was his. Part Five:
“He’s fine, Yuy.” Heero nearly yelped in shock as a voice spoke in his ear, and he whirled- Wufei stood next to him, smirking at him. Heero growled, “What are you doing, Chang?” The Chinese Preventer did not flinch. “What kept you, Yuy?” Heero’s face was closed and cold. “Dinner with Relena. She insisted.” Wufei’s face hardened. “He went out alone, Yuy. Zechs and I had to be at the dealer’s for the arrest.” Heero did not back off. “I didn’t want to be there, but she insisted. What do you want from me?” Wufei rolled his eyes. “Are you that blind, Yuy? It’s not what I want, it’s what he wants! He’s the objective, here- he shouldn’t have gone alone, even if he’s more than capable. Something could have gone wrong!” “Why are you so worried, anyway, Wufei?” Heero asked belligerently. The Chinese boy growled at his friend. “Maxwell is one of my best friends, Yuy. I don’t want to see him die.” Heero choked on a laugh and smirked. “And you think they’re going to catch Shinigami? You underestimate him.” Wufei was furious- was it possible that they had all misread Heero’s feelings for the braided boy so badly? Even Quatre? He shoved a piece of paper into the Japanese boy’s hands. “Read that- that’s how serious they are, Yuy. Someone wants him dead!” He turned and walked away in disgust. Heero’s face drained of colour as he read down the list- Duo had reported back on everything that had been bought. The list could be trusted- Duo’s memory was practically photographic. That’s enough firepower… they could take the entire Centre out with that much! Someone hates him so much- who could possibly hate Duo? He smiled as he recalled a picture of the American- smiling, joking, laughing- a living, breathing reminder of why it had been so important to win, of what was important and beautiful in the world. The person that Heero knew he would die for and kill for. The boy he loved. He stopped in shock- so it was true. It wasn’t just some stupid attraction on his part- he loved the other pilot. He opened Duo’s door again and ghosted in to stare down at the sleeper. He knew that Duo was subconsciously aware of his presence- had anyone else walked in, even as quietly as he had, the American would have been awake and ready to defend himself in a heartbeat. But Duo trusted him completely, unfailingly… He ran his fingers though the long bangs of the other boy, letting them brush down along Duo’s jaw. Mine. You may not know it yet, but you are mine, and anyone who wants to get to you will have to go through me first, I swear it! Leaving, he quickly went to Duo’s study and placed a call to Quatre and Trowa. He had a feeling that they would all be needed for this. One thing was certain- he would not leave Duo’s side again. *** Heero shook his head sadly. “I’m sorry, Relena, but I am sorely needed here. There are too many lives at stake for me to be anywhere else. You should be fine there.” She felt her fingernails digging into her palms, but ignored the pain. “What if I said I needed you, Heero?” His eyes softened minutely as he tried to lighten his words. “He needs me more, Relena. My place is here- I’m sorry, but you must understand that.” She felt tears pooling in her eyes. “You… You’d prefer to be with that gutter rat than with me?! Why? Oh, Heero, why?” His face tightened, but he managed to keep his tone even. “Relena! Duo is a good, decent person that I love! You have to understand this- he is more important to me than anything else on Earth or in Space, and he needs me now. I’m sorry if this hurts you, but I don’t love you. I love him!” She shook- tears streamed down her face. “It’s not true! You’re lying to me, Heero Yuy! Don’t lie to me!” He shook his head sadly. “I’m sorry to disappoint you, Relena. But it is the truth. Goodbye.” He cut the communication. Relena screamed in anger, her whole body trembling, and she began to pace back and forth. It wasn’t fair- it was impossible! How could he not want her? How could he return to that… She abruptly stopped pacing. It had been personal before, but it was even more so now. Duo Maxwell was going to pay for this. *** Heero nodded. “He’s put on such a brave face for all of these kids, but he’s terrified inside. It’s his nightmares coming to life, you know.” Quatre gave his friend a knowing glance. “You’re very worried for him.” Heero flushed, but nodded along. “Hai, I am.” He suddenly turned to look at the blond. “I love him.” Quatre gave one of his bright smiles. “Aa, I thought as much! What made you see it?” The Japanese boy looked uneasy. “Everything about him, really. I don’t know how I managed not to see it until now.” His eyes lingered on the braided boy softly, caressingly. Duo managed to extract himself from the surrounding children and jogged over to his friends, hugging both tightly. “I’m so glad you’re both here! We make a wonderful team, us five, eh? And maybe you’ll be able to help me pry this one,” he said, nudging Heero with his elbow, “away from Relena’s talks!” Heero pinned Duo with a look. “Baka! I’m staying right here, I told you!” Duo grinned at the other two. “Watch! She’ll call and he’ll leave me again!” He laughed, but Quatre flinched- he could feel the underlying fear and pain that accompanied the jest. Duo thought Heero was really going to leave him?! What has been going on here? Duo led them all back to where Wufei and Zechs were finishing unravelling the trail they had been left. Even with Heero’s help that morning, it had taken far too long. Zechs was even convinced that the trail was stalling them on purpose. The two Preventers looked up with a smile and nod as the other four walked in. Heero immediately moved to join them. Duo motioned to the room. “My base of operations. We’ve almost gotten it figured out, but it’s taking longer than I thought it would. They might even be stalling us with it.” His voice dropped lower, as though he didn’t want Heero to hear, “We spent hours on this yesterday, while Heero was out- I wish he had been here- we might have cracked it far sooner.” Quatre’s face was clouded by a deep frown. Something was terribly wrong with this picture- he just couldn’t put his finger on it! He shook his head to clear it. “Since we’re all here, why don’t we go over what we have?” They spent the next couple hours going over all the information they had- from Duo’s midnight excursions to the police interrogations to Heero’s outings with Relena. Trowa and Quatre finally looked at each other, their faces drawn and grim. Quatre turned to look at Duo, his eyes burning in his face. “Duo- we should get the kids out of here somehow. I hate to say it, but there is a big chance that this Centre will be attacked, and soon. Maybe tonight.” Duo nodded his agreement. “I know that- I’ve already made arrangements with the people here I trust the most to stay and help us with that. We just need to figure out where to take them…” Heero looked up from his brooding. “How about Howard’s hangar? He likes kids, from what I remember…” Duo’s eyes lit up in his face. “Sure! He’d love it, and he’d keep it quiet for me, definitely…” Quatre smiled, but quickly grew serious again. “How many children are there?” Duo promptly replied, “Twenty-seven. The others live at home and stay here during the day.” Zechs nodded. “Alright- we have ways of getting people from one place to another very quietly. Let Wufei and me handle that part.” Duo smiled his thanks, though it was obvious to them all that he was greatly disturbed by this attack. He was putting his own feelings aside, though. He stood quickly. “I think we need to arm ourselves, then. Follow me, all.” Even Heero was baffled as the braided boy walked to yet another hidden door and went through the three security checks he had installed on it. With a hiss, the entire wall began to move seamlessly… The other five gaped, while Duo merely smiled, a look of dark satisfaction on his face. “Welcome to Shinigami’s hideout.” They stepped inside. Even Heero and Trowa had never seen this sort of stockroom before- Duo had compiled a complete store of arms, from grenades and timer switches to more hi-tech numbers and a few additions that no one recognised- personal tools that were, no doubt, highly destructive. Duo began talking, “Back during the War, I designed a few of the doodads I used, but I had many more ideas I wanted to explore. These are they. As for the rest of this- I’ve had far too many run-ins to be unarmed anymore. Especially here, on L2. Take your pick, guys.” They all felt the odd itch and surge of adrenaline as they reached for the weapons. So the bad guys had big toys? Well, they would, too. Part Six: Heero could feel the bile rising in his throat as his target moved through
the silent hallways of the Centre- the armed men had easily His earpiece crackled slightly. "03 here- I think I've spotted Warlock. He's… shit, he's holding a detonator switch!" Heero reached to key his mike when he heard a gentle laugh over the line. "04
here- no need to worry, 03. 06 and I just found the guys "02 to all- more explosives over here, but they're not a problem. I think this guy is toast." Heero chuckled to himself. "01 here- target in my sights, no explosives. I think this one is looking for their primary objective." He slipped from the shadows to follow behind the man soundlessly. Duo spoke again. "I'd hate to disappoint them- I'm heading back for my office, people. 03- where is he?" "Headed towards the office now, 02. Move it!" Heero stopped short as his target abruptly turned towards a room and kicked
the door open. "Shit!" He cued his mike, "01 here- I have a Duo's voice was a dark growl. "Eliminate target, 01! The bastards!" "Mission accepted." Heero was already slipping through the door as automatic
rifle fire tore into the small beds which, thankfully, were "What the hell?!" The gunman's eyes went wide in shock as hands grasped his
head and jerked violently- his body slid to the floor, Heero's face was blank as he keyed the mike again, "Target is down." "Easy, 01! I'm coming in behind you!" Heero spun, hearing footsteps, as Wufei
ghosted into the room. The Chinese boy Heero shook his head, "Negative." "02 here- I'm in and waiting for him." Heero felt his blood going cold- Shinigami or not, Duo was playing with his life! "Be careful, 02! These guys are serious…" "So am I, 01. Besides, you get to kill me, remember?" Heero could practically see the maniacal grin that accompanied the statement. He shrugged off the look of disbelief he was getting from Wufei- there wasn't time to explain now. "04 reporting- three targets down in my wing, but I think I've got company." "03 here- Where are you?" The all heard gunfire in the distance that ended rather abruptly, and five hearts froze until- "04 again- target is down, and I'm fine." Wufei looked at his Japanese friend and gave a small smile before they headed for the door. Wufei went left, and Heero went right. *** Duo smiled evilly as the door to his office slid open and three figures
stepped in. "Warlock, I presume? How kind of you to pay me The leering voice slurred at him, "Shut up, Maxwell! Or do you want your friend to die, hm?" Duo's eyes widened as the other two figures stepped forward, a guard and…
Relena? //What the hell is she doing here? Just great! Just Warlock laughed. "I am getting out of here alive, and it won't matter,
Maxwell. I know who you are." The distant sound of gunfire The earpiece crackled, "06 here- building sweep complete. Area is secured."
Duo smirked. "Then call me Shinigami and let her go. We The leering face fell into confusion for a moment, then spread into a mocking
grin. "Right. Let's put it like this, kid. I'm taking this Duo laughed outright at the statement, noting the looks of consternation on
the two gangsters' faces. He held his sides as he The grin became even darker and more evil. "You don't really know, do you?
You didn't really think someone sent you all that stuff to Warlock's face was a strange mixture of frightened and cocky as he slowly
lifted the box in his hands so Duo could see it. "Say goodbye Nothing happened. Warlock's brain barely had the time to register disbelief before Duo's gun
was coming up in an even arch, his eyes gleaming with a There was another crackle over the line on Duo's earpiece. "04 here- I've got
three of them contained, but there are seven more two rooms Heero's reply: "01 is headed to you, 04." The man holding Relena trembled as the full weight of Shinigami's regard fell
on him, almost cowering behind his prisoner. "Release *** Quatre had dispassionately killed the two thugs, but stayed his hand at the
third- the boy had multiple chest wounds that were killing Heero walked in quickly, surveying the efficiency with which the blond had taken down his enemies. "The other seven?" Quatre shook his head. "Still there- probably waiting for orders from their boss. Too bad they won't get any." The boy at his feet coughed painfully, blood spattering on his lips as both
Quatre and Heero leaned down to look him over carefully. The boy was sputtering, but bravely trying to hold on- these two were
probably the last people he would ever see. It frightened him, but Both boys felt something in them clench as the last two words slipped out.
Quatre leaned forward, one hand clamping down on the youth's The kid nodded, even as he coughed again and more blood spilled form his
lips. "Yeah- said she had to get rid of someone. Hah- "DUO! Oh, my God…" Quatre was on his heels as Heero sprinted from the room. Part Seven: Relena flinched as the man cocked the gun held at her temple. The man backed
off as Duo came around the desk, the gun held carelessly "You'd be dead before you took a step, asshole," Duo interrupted him evenly.
"Give it up, or do you want to die slowly? I killed your The man's hand relaxed ever so slightly- it was what Duo had been waiting
for, as his own arm came up almost carelessly and he fired Duo grabbed the man's gun as he hauled Relena back up with his free hand. She
shuddered as she clung to him. "Oh God! Duo… he was The braided boy held her gently, "Shh, it's alright- it's over, Relena." She pulled back slightly to look him in the face. "Why did you help me? You have no reason to love me…" Duo laughed ruefully, a bit uncomfortable in her embrace. "Heero wouldn't
want you to get hurt, and the world needs you, even if I Relena's face spread into an evil grin as she realised- //He doesn't know! He
doesn't know that Heero chose him over me! How sweet it The violet eyes barely had the time to meet with Relena's evil azure stare
before the knife she had hidden on her person plunged into his Relena yanked back sharply, her mind exulting as she watched him fall, red quickly seeping out onto his shirt and jeans. Duo could barely think for the pain as she kicked the wound, sending fresh pain wheeling through him. //Oh, Heero…// "Duo! Dear Kami- if you can hear this, get the Hell away from Relena! She's
not a prisoner…" Heero's voice came over the earpiece Relena gave a final kick to the still form before her and laughed as she
looked at her hands, stained with his blood. She bent and She stood and ran from the room as fast as she could. *** Heero vaguely registered when Quatre cried out and clutched at his chest-
they were too late! //If she's harmed him, Hell will be too Quatre's voice spoke over the earpiece: "Wufei! Call an ambulance now! Duo's
down! The rest of you, neutralise your targets and keep Both Quatre and Heero ignored it as various responses came back from the others. They burst into the office- "Duo! Oh God, no- don't you dare die on me!" Heero was on his knees next to
Duo's body- the braided boy was lying on his back, his blood Quatre was immediately there, helping Heero rip the shirt off of the fallen
boy as they frantically tried to stem the bleeding. Tears Quatre was crying as Trowa and Zechs burst through the doorway. He stood
quickly to leave space for the other two, who were more skilled Even Heero backed off a little as Zechs tenderly examined the wound. There
was tense silence before the platinum-haired man sighed. Quatre approached the Preventer almost hesitantly, but steeled his resolve,
looking down at Duo. He held out the bloody shirt. "Zechs, The taller man looked down- there was a clear handprint on the shirt in blood. "The killer?" Quatre nodded. "Yes, probably. Let me shorten the list for you- start with Relena Peacecraft." Even Trowa stopped in shock at the words. "Quatre! You can't be serious!" The little blond's eyes were more than just serious, though. "Heero and I
will explain later, but we have every reason to believe that Heero looked up, murder in his eyes. "I swear, I really will kill her if…" Wufei walked in, a medical team right behind him, and interrupted, "We didn't
hear that, did we, Zechs?" He shoved the Japanese boy Heero stared at his hands- red with Duo's blood. He abruptly buried his face
in Wufei's shoulder, hugging the Chinese boy tightly against All five followed the medical team out and down to the hospital. *** The world had a strange haze to it, and for the longest time, Duo couldn't
figure out why everything was so blurry. And he felt… "I think he's coming out of it, Mr Yuy." Duo could barely make out another
voice speaking near him. //Yuy… Heero Yuy. Is Heero here, Heero held his breath as Duo's long eyelashes fluttered slowly against his
cheeks- he knew from experience that Duo hated medication The violet eyes slowly opened- his Duo was back! Heero smiled gently as he
took a slim hand in his and gave it a light squeeze. "Hi, Duo's confused face fell into a smile. "Heero… hi. But… you're the beautiful one…" Heero felt his heart fluttering madly. "How do you feel?" Duo's mind was working feverishly, trying to fight off the fog. //Feel- I
don't feel, but that can't be right?! What… hospital? Heero nodded, tightening his hold on a now trembling hand. "Relena is… in special care. Quatre and I tried to get to you…" Duo felt his tears welling up and was ashamed that he couldn't control it. "I never thought… she'd hate me so much." Heero gently turned the heart-shaped face so that the violet eyes met his. "That bitch dies if she ever comes near you again- I swear it." Duo's eyes widened. //He means it- is it even possible?// "How did you know it was her?" Heero's answer was cut off and drowned out as five bodies entered the room,
all smiling nervously. Josie, Wufei, Zechs, Quatre and Trowa He smiled at them all, mentally cursing at how the drugs were slowing him down. "Hi, guys. Nice to see you." "I'm glad to hear that you're better, Mr Maxwell." All of them stopped short
as a new, female voice spoke out and another person Dorothy's eye, however, lacked any guile as she stepped up towards the
protective ring of people around Shinigami's hospital bed. "I Heero threw her a threatening glare. "What are you really doing here, Dorothy?" The long-haired girl sighed- not that this wasn't expected, just…
disappointing. //It would really be nice to earn their trust for Surprisingly, it was Duo, himself, who responded, "Miss Dorothy- you came here to give us this? But she'll…" Dorothy smiled sadly. "Her other misdeeds could be overlooked, but this was too much. I wouldn't stand by while she did this!" Quatre's eyes smiled at her. "So I was right about you, after all." She returned the look. "I don't admit to anything, Winner!" A doctor walked in, displeasure written on his face as he saw the number of
people in the room. "I'm sorry, but this young man is in Heero squeezed the hand again as he turned back to Duo and smiled down at
him. "I'll come back to see you later, okay?" He leaned The violet eyed boy smiled up at him dreamily. " `Kay, Heero," he whispered,
seemingly unaware of the looks of surprise and pleasure on *** Lady Une looked around herself in shock as she surveyed the "Computer Room"
hidden behind Duo's office. The thought that a civilian, even Une and Noin exchanged startled looks. "Nice set-up, " Noin whispered to her senior. The other woman nodded back. "Yes! Jackpot!" Quatre exclaimed from his place. The two Preventers wandered towards him, noting how the others crowded close. Trowa's hands rubbed the Arab's shoulders gently. "What is it?" Quatre smiled. "Well, I knew that Duo had his office wired with security
cameras for this, and I just had to find the system and his They were all silent as Heero popped the tape into a nearby machine and hit
"Play." There was a moment of fuzz before the recording Une shivered as she watched the Shinigami pilot move, so easily, with that damned disarming smile… She watched as the first man went down… Heero frowned angrily. He could replay it all in his mind so clearly- //about
now- we had found that kid, and Duo…// He watched "…Heero wouldn't want you to get hurt, and the world needs you, even if I
don't like you. *He* does, and I'll respect that…" Heero felt Everyone looked rocky as the tape ended. Heero simply stared, only vaguely
registering the comforting arm Quatre draped around his Heero trembled as he leaned into Quatre's embrace. "I don't deserve that sort of love, Quatre. He actually thought that I'd choose her…" "You know what I'd do, then?" Heero looked up into his friend's face. He searched the aqua eyes for a few moments- Quatre felt like it would tear
his soul out to see *Heero* looking so vulnerable and The Arab gave his friend a gentle smile. "Go- I'll make sure that the rest of
us stay away. You go to the hospital and tell that boy Heero suddenly gave a beaming smile. "Okay." He hugged Quatre tightly. "Thank
you, Quatre. Arigato gozaimasu." Standing, he Trowa and Wufei were in the room seconds later, looks of bewilderment on
their faces as the stared at the smiling Sandrock pilot. Wufei Quatre finally broke his silence, shaking his head, "No, let him go. He's off
to the hospital- he's got to tell a certain braided baka
Part Eight: Duo woke slowly, grimacing at the pain as he tried to stretch. He blinked his
eyes to clear his vision- he wasn't quite sure what he "You're awake." //Heero's here. Heero…// He forced his mind to function and blinked again. The room started to come into focus, and he gasped as he realised what he was
seeing. Heero's eyes. He could feel his cheeks flushing The Japanese boy hushed him with a finger to his lips. "I need to tell you something, Duo." He fell silent obediently- he had never seen Heero looking quite so nervous
or skittish, and it intrigued him. //What could he possibly Heero took a deep breath. "I saw the tape of the attack." Duo flinched, but
was unable to pull his eyes away. "You… you actually He gently took hold of one of the slender hands on the coverlet and squeezed.
"I *did* care about her, but nothing even close to what I Duo's eyes widened as his jaw dropped open slightly. //I *didn't* just hear
that! I'm imagining things again, or I'm dreaming, or I'm Duo's mouth was suddenly dry, and he gulped for air. "Heero… God, I wished
you would say that. I've wanted to hear it… You… you don't Heero shook his head. "She dies if I ever see her again- *No one* hurts the man I love!" Duo's arms came up and he ran shaking fingers through Heero's bangs, brushing
them back from his face before cupping a cheek and rubbing Heero nearly choked. "Duo, I've never been happier than when I'm with you!
You've brought me to life- you've made me what and who I Duo felt his smile forming and let it blossom over his face. "Hopefully not
in this hospital, because I love you too much to let Heero leaned forward gently, slowly, as though afraid that this was an
illusion and a sharp movement would break it for all time. He Duo felt heat like he had never known it coursing through him, and he
whimpered again as his hand weakly worked its way into Heero's thick, Heero pulled back only when he was certain the other boy would pass out from
lack of air. He stared down into violet eyes that glistened Duo's bright laughter filled his ears. "I could say the same thing, Heero." Heero smiled again and took Duo's lips, claiming them with a deep,
soul-binding kiss. He could feel his entire body thrumming with life As they pulled apart again, Duo smiled up at him adoringly. "I love you, Heero." An answering smirk. "I hope so- you're stuck with me, now." He pulled Duo's hand to his lips and kissed it again. Heero ran his fingers through Duo's long bangs gently. He could see sleep
pulling at his love and knew that the other boy was fighting it "Heero?" He smiled. "Hai?" Duo smiled back. "Nothing. I just wanted to see you smile." Heero gave the other boy another kiss before standing regretfully. "I'll be back soon, love. Sweet dreams." "Heero, I love you…" Duo dropped to sleep with a smile on his lips. Heero smiled to himself as he left the small room. *** Lady Une sat behind Duo Maxwell's desk with her head in her hands. //What the
hell am I supposed to do now? The Great Relena Peacecraft To be caught over semantics! She still had a hard time believing that Relena
had been stupid enough to use the term `gutter rat' in It also helped that Duo had survived and was healing with his customary
speed. Une shook her head- she secretly believed that Une shivered as she remembered Duo's story- Wufei had finally gotten the
words out of the braided pilot, convincing him that the Noin walked in without knocking and collapsed into a chair across from her
superior. She smiled in greeting. "Good news- the Une smiled a little in return. "Did he give you the info we needed?" Noin nodded and stood, coming around the desk to place a small tape recorder
on the table. She pressed play- Duo's voice: "It surprised "She must have had that knife somewhere close on her. I can't believe that
she hated me like that! I mean- She stabbed me, and "You know- I'd love to forget this. I really would, but she came after the
kids to get at me! Maybe I can understand her wanting to Une looked up, her troubled look lightening somewhat. "Well, if we were going
to prosecute her, we'd have more than enough evidence. The smaller, purple-haired woman shook her head sadly, slowly. "There can be
no trial- not for Relena, and definitely not exposing Une leaned back to stare up into Noin's face. "So what if she was `persuaded'
to retire? You know, she got tired of public life and Noin nodded her agreement, but her face was still troubled. "I like it. But
there's one last thing- she will never be allowed onto L2 Une finally laughed- *that* sounded more like the people she knew! "I think we can manage that! As much as Relena deserves worse…" "She's crazy, Une," Noin said, turning to lean her arms on the desk surface
and put her face down into them. "Dorothy's records show Une shook her head and patted the other woman's shoulder as she stood. "No-
you're right. Don't apologise." Part Nine: Everyone was at the Centre a week later, when Duo was finally released from
the hospital. He felt a wave of uneasiness as Heero Heero whispered, "We're home, Duo-love. Ready to face it again?" Duo steeled himself and smiled. "Ready." Together they walked up the stairs and in through the front door. Duo's eyes widened in surprise and joy as he looked up- "Welcome home, Mr
Duo!" the kids all shouted, surging forward towards the awe- Josie came forward. "Alright, short people! We've got to be careful, remember? Mr Duo was hurt pretty bad…" Several kids pulled back from him with guilty looks on their little faces,
and Duo laughed merrily to reassure them. "I'm glad to see Duo was still overwhelmed, though, and Heero quickly steered him through the
crowd of kids to the seat that had been prepared for Duo smiled at the assembled group of friends. "You've all been… Geez- I hate
doing this! Look, all of you- you've been wonderful. "I guess what I wanted to say is… thanks." He smiled at all of them in turn. "You deserve more, but I don't know what to say." Wufei couldn't help it. "You mean that the great Motormouth Maxwell is at a loss for words? Impossible! Inconceivable!" The other pilots laughed as the Chinese Preventer grabbed Duo and hugged him
hard, but Duo pulled back after a moment. "Hey, where's He followed as Quatre looked pointedly at the far corner of the room and
walked over to where the blonde girl was standing, detached from She walked forward slowly, looking abashed. "I'm sorry, Mr Maxwell- I really don't belong here…" "Nonsense!" Duo cut her off. "If you're gonna say that you were our enemy, well, so was Zechs, okay?" He held out his hand. Dorothy took it with a smile and managed not to yelp as he bounced back across the room, pulling her along behind him. *** "Hurry up, or we're never gonna get a table!" Trowa nearly growled as he
heard Duo's yelling from downstairs. //I sweat it's a miracle "Q! Tro! MOVE IT!" The green-eyed boy sighed and shook his head, smiling, as
Quatre finally appeared, grabbing a jacket as he darted The others were waiting for them at the bottom of the stairs, Duo frowning
sharply at them, though his eyes were dancing with an even Quatre gave a bashful smile. "Sorry. But I'm ready now…" Heero clapped a hand over Duo's mouth as the latter prepared to go into a
full rant on how *everyone* else, even those with the excuse Under the cover of movement, Trowa handed the Japanese boy a small box and got a nod and a smile in return. Duo was practically buzzing with energy and excitement by the time the car
pulled up in front of a popular club in one of the better It never even occurred to him to wonder why Heero had made the suggestion,
not why their table was ready and waiting when they got Karaoke night- the other four had vivid memories of Duo at various Karaoke
bars from the war. From the time he had dragged them up to Tonight was no disappointment either. No one could deny that he looked
incredible- Duo had decided to skip his normal straight black, But the best was yet to come. Applause was still ringing in the showroom as the lights dimmed and a figure
was suddenly lit up at centre stage. Duo gasped in shock as Muted piano music began playing as everyone hushed- they could somehow sense
that something big was happening. Heero looked up and {-I don't know, but I believe, Duo felt tears pooling in his eyes, even as his heart swelled in amazement,
Heero's warm, emotion-filled voice caressing his ears as {-I never thought that dreams came true, `Cause I believe that destiny is out of our control, It's a touch when I feel bad, //God- tell me this is real! Please tell me this is real! I can't be
imagining this- he means it! He really means it! Oh God!// Duo {-`Cause I believe that destiny is out of our control, Heero was walking down off the stage and approaching their table, falling to
one knee at Duo's side and taking hold of his left hand. {-If I asked, would you say yes? And I'll give you my best- The music ended, and there was a moment of breathless silence as Heero dropped the forgotten microphone and stared up into Duo's face. He could barely think, let alone respond, but Duo finally managed to remind
himself to breathe. "Yes, oh Heero! Yes! I love you so The entire room broke into applause as Heero stood, swinging Duo through the
air as he laughed and spun with the other boy held Duo pressed his lips to Heero's and felt his soul ignite as the Japanese boy
responded, lips parting in invitation. //Heero, I love
Part Ten: Heero wiped his palms on his pants legs for what seemed like the millionth
time. This was what he wanted with all his heart- what he Zechs smiled amusedly as he got a signal from Wufei. He nodded to Trowa,
standing nearby, and turned to tap the nervous groom on the Heero hugged his best men close before stepping out into the church, feeling a strange calm coming over him as the music began- He had been against wearing tuxes, but then Quatre had taken Duo and him out
for a try-on session and he had seen Duo wearing the crazy Duo w as smiling as he walked, seeming to float as his eyes centred on the
figure of his soon-to-be husband ahead of him. For the first "Dearly beloved,…" The priest began, beaming at the two young men before him.
Father Stephen had been terribly surprised two years The church seemed to hush as Heero accepted the gold band from Zechs and
repeated back, "I take thee, Duo, for my husband, to treasure and Duo took his ring from Quatre and stared deep into the cobalt eyes. "I take
thee, Heero, for my husband, to treasure and keep, in The priest felt that funny little sensation that never failed to remind him
that God really did exist and love humanity as he watched Duo forgot to breathe as Heero leaned forward and kissed him, pulling him
close, into his strong arms. He was distantly aware of the As they pulled back from each other slowly and began walking down the aisle, hand in hand, both smiled happily. *** Relena scowled darkly as she watched the news clip- the wedding of Duo
Maxwell, a local hero and political force to be reckoned with in After her failed attempt on Duo's life and the sheer amount of evidence they
had against her, she had been forced to resign from her //Gutter rat.// Those words had given her away. Even she hadn't been stupid
enough to make a Gundam pilot's identity public //Even Dorothy has betrayed me. I'm truly alone now- no Heero, no Dorothy, no
government to run…// She hung her head as the first sob *** Several drunken hours after into the wedding reception, the pilots were all
laughing as they teased the young couple mercilessly. They It had made sense then, but now was a completely different story. Especially
since the other four, Quatre, Trowa, Zechs and Wufei, were Duo and Heero smiled at each other. They had been looking forward to this
night for a while now and were not going to let their drunken "Whoa, cool!" Quatre giggled as the air was suddenly filled with swirling
indigo smoke that smelled strangely like oranges. All four As the air cleared, they blinked and looked around in disbelief- Heero and
Duo were nowhere to be seen! Wufei rubbed his eyes The others simply burst out laughing again. Duo and Heero watched form outside the window- it was wonderful to see them
all so relaxed and happy- to be happy themselves. Heero Duo was purring by the time Heero pulled back with a smile, waiting for the
violet eyes to open again. The Japanese boy grinned, "What A raised eyebrow. "That idea has promise, Mr Yuy-Maxwell. I think I like it." With one last look at the party, still going strong inside the restaurant
they had rented out, the two left, leaving no traces owari |
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