Disclaimer: This goes for all the parts: I don’t own Gundam Wing, I never have, and I never will, so there.

"I assure you, sir, the spell cannot be broken, not even by the Magicians themselves."

Treize’s chin rested in his hand as he listened. Now he lost his detached look and focused his eyes straight on the man in front of him. "You are certain of this?"

Zechs Merquise nodded assuredly. His long silvery coat and platinum hair flashed in the firelight, and the strange, smooth mask he wore over his eyes hid all emotion in his face. "The people are weak, they will fall easily. The Magicians will not stand in our way; I will see to that."

Treize nodded. "I trust you well; your talents have never failed me before. Lieutenant Noin," he said, and the dark-haired woman standing beside Zechs stepped forward, saluting.

"Sir."

"Assemble your troops," Treize said. "When the signal is given, begin moving the divisions out to the selected attack points."

Noin nodded and turned to leave, but turned back and said, "May I say, sir, that I’m very glad we’re finally making our move." The comment was directed at Treize, but she was looking meaningfully at Zechs. And before she turned again to leave, she thought she could detect the slight beginnings of his clever smile curling his lips.

When she was gone, Treize said, "Lady Une, make sure that Zechs has everything he needs to complete his spell."

In response to this, a woman stepped forward out of the shadows to stand beside him. Her hair was pulled back tightly behind her head and she wore a military coat with a small ruffle at the neck. "Immediately, sir." Her voice was cold and obedient, and Zechs felt a shiver run up his spine when she spoke.

"I trust you can get to work right away?" Treize asked him.

Zechs nodded. "Right away, sir." He smiled, the strange, clever smile that sent cold fear into the hearts of his enemies. "They won’t even have time to sharpen their blades."