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Tags: gw_hl crossovers
Published : 2 months, 1 week ago (Tue, 23 Sep 2008 09:53:17 PDT)
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Revenge
by CC
Sequel to Starting Over
October, 2001
This is an amateur effort and does not intend to infringe on the rights of Sunrise, Sotsu Agency, Asahi TV, and Bandai Visuals, or Rysher: Panzer & Davis.
This story is a crossover between Gundam Wing and Highlander the series. The events on this fic are set after the events of Blind Target, on Gundam Wing. As for Highlander, it has spoilers up to "Endgame." Methos' current alias is Vladimir Ivanovich.
Pairings: 13x6, M/D.
Rating: R
Thank you to my beta reader.
Kiev, Treize's estate
Methos stepped out of the car and looked up to see Treize's old butler coming down the stairs. He had come earlier than announced, an entire week earlier to be precise. Duncan was in Seacouver, taking care of some business related to his antiquary shop there, and they had agreed to meet in Paris and travel to Kiev together. But something unexpected had changed their plans, and that was the reason for him to be here now. Vazquez was back, and he had been seen first in Moscow and then in Minsk.
Methos had been making his way through the Watchers' network, checking for other immortal's whereabouts, when he had stumbled over a report about the old Spaniard's current activities. Vazquez was just too close to Treize's home, and killing Methos' student would certainly be a way for the ancient immortal to exact his revenge on him. Even if this time Methos was not to blame. He could not let this happen.
Two months had passed since Treize and Zechs had left the refuge on holy ground and come back here. Both men were calmer, and save for his memory, Milliard seemed to have recovered his strength. A peaceful environment, lots of rest and sleep. Those had been Dr. Krueger's recommendations for Milliard to start to heal. But now that Vazquez was back, all the hard work of months could be lost.
"Good morning, Count Ivanovich," Dimitry said, while a servant took care of Methos' luggage. "Master Treize is in the rose garden. Please follow me."
"Thank you, Dimitry," Methos said, following the old man around the house and to the garden. He was sure that Treize himself would come to meet them soon enough. He was already in range for the younger immortal to sense him. Less than a minute later the ginger-haired man appeared in front of them, sword concealed in the coat he was carrying in a hand.
"Vladimir!" The look of relief in Treize's eyes was evident, though nothing showed on his student's face. "I was expecting you to come in a week, but I am glad that you are here." Methos smiled faintly, hating to bring news that would disturb Treize's calm life. "Please, Dimitry, when Milliard wakes tell him that our guest has arrived." The old man bowed slightly and left. "You came alone?" the younger man asked as they sat on a stone bench.
"Duncan is still in Seacouver," he said, looking around before resting his eyes on his student. "He will be here tomorrow. This is a beautiful garden you have, kid."
"Thank you, my friend." Treize paused, seemingly studying him. "Tell me if I am becoming too apprehensive. I am glad to have you here already, but at the same time I wonder if there is a reason, and if that reason is something I should worry about..."
"You were always perceptive, kid," he said. "I will make it short. Vazquez is back, and he seems to be looking for you."
"I see..." Treize tensed, his eyes turning to the house in an unconscious gesture. "So you believe that he wants to challenge me?"
He nodded. "Killing my student would be part of his revenge. Enrique was his student and his lover."
"So eliminating me would even things out. I do not wish to sound pessimistic, but I don't think I would be able to beat a three-thousand-year immortal."
"And you won't have to confront him," Methos said quickly. "That is why I am here. Vazquez wants me. I will challenge him and get over with this."
"I wish there would be another way," Treize said softly, looking worried for him. "From what Duncan told me, this immortal is not only skilled but vicious. Hate is a dangerous fuel."
"I can beat him, kid. Don't listen to the Highlander. He seems to believe that I am here after five thousand years because I'm a lucky bastard, and that I have lasted the last three centuries because he has been here to protect me."
"He loves you, and wants to keep you safe," Treize said, again looking at the house. "I can understand why he worries. I would do anything to keep Milliard out of harm's way."
"We will have to tell him," Methos said, trying to ignore the almost desperate look Treize gave him. "We have no choice, Treize. He has to be on guard."
"I know..." Treize stood, running a hand through his hair and sighing softly. "This will unsettle him once more. I had hoped that we could lead a calm life for some time. Everything is settling down, the Earth and the colonies are about to sign a peace treaty, the World Nation that Relena Peacecraft has envisioned is about rise from the ashes of the war..."
"And how is Milliard taking it all?" Methos asked, standing too. "Has he spoken about meeting his sister?"
"No. He seems content to see her on the news, to watch her from afar without disturbing her life." Treize looked away, frowning slightly as if something else were disturbing him.
"What is it, kid? Is Milliard having nightmares again?" Since they had found the blond man in a colony on the L2 cluster, Milliard had had nightmares and even flashbacks about his past. They were bad enough to render the younger man exhausted, but his memory wouldn't come back.
"Sometimes... Mainly about the burning of the Sank Kingdom. That is why I have no wish to let him contact his sister... I fear that it would trigger a new series of nightmares with the same result as before. Thankfully he doesn't seem to want to see her but on TV."
"Have you spoken to Dr. Krueger about this? I know it is painful to see Milliard disturbed by those nightmares, but you know that it might be the only way for his memory to come back..."
"I know. Dr. Krueger has told me that Milliard is unconsciously blocking the memories, and that the nightmares are the way his mind is trying to cope with the past. But I will not allow anyone to disturb him, even if this might bring his memory back."
Methos looked at his student for a moment, trying to think of a way to make Treize understand that this might be more harmful for Milliard in the long run. He knew how tempting it was for Treize to protect his lover from the past. Without his memory the blond man seemed to be his age, the burden of his past life and mistakes gone completely. Save for the nightmares Milliard was happy.
"He needs to recover his memories, Treize. They are part of him. They make him the man you love now."
"And what if he goes insane?" Treize asked, with an urgency that was completely uncharacteristic for him. "What if it is too much and I lose him definitely? Immortality cannot cure madness, you told me that... And we don't even know if Milliard is immortal or not."
Treize let himself fall on the stone bench, a trembling hand running through is hair. Methos didn't move, waiting for his student to get a hold of his emotions again. When Treize appeared to calm some, Methos sat on the bench beside him.
"I will challenge Vazquez and get rid of him," he said. "And then we will talk about Milliard. I still have the house on C-126, we could go there and have a long vacation away from everything again. You need a break. I am sorry to have disturbed you. Vazquez is my responsibility and I will solve it."
"Vazquez is not only your problem, Methos," Treize said softly. "Even if this has to be a one man fight, I will be there with you."
"I know, kid," he said, patting Treize's leg. "And I appreciate it. Let's go inside and try to relax," he said, standing. "Milliard might be already awake, and it won't do him any good if he comes here and sees you so disturbed."
Zechs stirred on the bed, sighing softly and blindly searching for his watch on the nightstand. He was being absolutely lazy, but somehow he seemed to need more sleep than before. At least that was what Treize said; Zechs couldn't really say if he had slept less time before. All he knew was that life was good, and that all that was important for him was to stay at Treize's side. That was the reason why Zechs didn't want to get his memories back. He was afraid of being taken away. The Sank Kingdom and his sister... the White Fang and his crimes during the war... Everything seemed to be alien to him, and even the peace negotiations about to start today were something that he was watching from afar. It was as if his mind refused to deal with reality, only the nightmares bringing the painful past back to him.
But none of it stayed in his mind after he woke. Only the fear, and even that was gone as soon as Treize gathered him in his arms. Zechs sighed, hugging a pillow and cracking one eye open to look at his watch. It was almost noon; this time he had exaggerated a bit. Treize should be starving. Blinking and struggling to keep his eyes open, Zechs sat on the bed, sliding his feet to the floor and looking at his image on the mirror in front of him.
"Leave, Milliard. Run!" A tall blond man with a long beard was urging him to leave the room. But he was only a small boy, and strange men were all around, cursing and wrecking havoc in Zechs' home. He heard Relena cry, and her mother speaking softly to her, and then his mother was crying too. "Run, son!" his father urged again, and Zechs did as his father had said, running until he was breathless. But he was being a coward, he should have stayed at his father's side. He turned around and went back, and then he saw his father lying dead on the floor.
"Father!"
Zechs was not aware that he had actually screamed, that he had called for his father out loud. He clutched his head with both hands, moaning in pain and standing on unsteady feet. "Please no..." he whispered. "Stop this... Stop!"
"Milliard!" His lover was there, and Zechs all but collapsed against the lean frame. "Let me take you back to bed..." Treize's voice was thick with worry.
"Treize... I didn't want to leave him... I shouldn't have left him alone..." He was being laid down on the bed, and cool fingers were brushing his forehead. "Father... I should have stayed and protected you..."
"You were only a child, Milliard. You couldn't have done anything to help him." Treize's voice was so soothing, but even as Zechs clutched at his lover's shirt, the image of his father dying was being replayed in his mind. And he could hear his mother sobbing, and Relena crying as she was taken away. He was being taken away too, where was he going?
"Mother... Relena..." He was trembling, and Treize's hands on his face were cool and gentle. "I should have stayed... try to protect you..."
"Calm yourself, angel..." His trembling was getting worse, and he could feel his body temperature slowly going up. Treize was speaking softly to him, trying to calm him. But Zechs couldn't stop seeing those horrid images and trembling.
"Treize..." He extended a hand, searching for his lover. "Where are you, Treize...?"
"I am here... Lie still, Milliard. Let me bring something to get your fever down." Treize left his side and Zechs thrashed on the bed, calling him desperately. "I am back, my angel. Calm yourself."
"W-what...? Feel hot..."
Treize was placing a damp cloth on his forehead, speaking softly to him. And then there was another voice, and Zechs couldn't make out the words, but he knew it was Vladimir... Methos... Zechs closed his eyes, sinking into a new memory of his past...
He was flying, and he was battling against a troop of Arieses and Cancers his lover had sent after him. "Would you die for OZ, Milliard?" Those had been Treize's last words before closing the connection, and Zechs knew that he deserved it after refusing to take the only opportunity he had to come out alive of this. Treize had offered his help, even though Zechs had betrayed him. But Zechs had left, and whatever happened to him now he was to blame.
"I'm sorry..." he whispered, struggling to focus on his lover's face. He was unbearably hot again. "I'm sorry I left... I should have died then... for OZ... for you..."
"No, Milliard... Do not say those things... I never wanted you dead, my angel..." Treize had stopped working with the cloth, and Zechs could feel cool fingers brushing his cheek tenderly. "I wanted you to escape... I would have done anything..."
"I didn't deserve your help... I left..." He shivered once more, the throbbing in his head becoming unbearable. "Don't leave me..."
"I am here..." The hand on his cheek trembled slightly, and Zechs wanted to say something, but his eyes were closing and the throbbing in his head was fading as he sank into oblivion.
He woke at the sound of Dr. Krueger's voice. "He is waking. How are you feeling, Milliard?" Zechs blinked, wondering why he was feeling so weak. His limbs felt like lead, and both Treize and Methos were looking at him as if he had come back from the dead. Somewhere in the back of his mind Zechs was aware that Methos should not be in Kiev yet, but he was too tired to give more thought to it.
"I'm fine..." he whispered, still trying to remember if something had happened for his lover to look so concerned. "Did I... sleep for so long...? What happened?"
"You collapsed, Milliard," Treize said, coming closer. "Do you not remember...?" His lover looked pale, scared. Zechs frowned, trying to force the memory back. "It's alright, Milliard," Treize said, holding his hand. "Just rest."
"I can't remember anything... I think... I overslept..." And he was still tired. Strange after having slept for so long... Dr. Krueger was writing something on a paper, and giving it to Methos, who left the room. "I am sorry for causing all this trouble..."
"Don't think of it, young man," Dr. Krueger said. "Now rest. I don't want to give you something to sleep, but I will have to if you are unable to get some rest."
"I will sleep... rest..." he said, his eyes drifting to Treize. His lover still looked shaken. Had it been that bad this time? Zechs listened attentively to everything the doctor said and promised to stay in bed all the time needed to recover. It never was long, anyway, and he would do anything if it served to calm Treize.
As soon as the doctor was gone, Treize lay down with him and gathered him close. Zechs made himself comfortable in his lover's arms, sighing softly. "I am sorry, beloved. I didn't mean to scare you... I don't even know what happened... why..."
"Hush... You do not need to apologize for feeling sick, Milliard." Long fingers caressed his cheek, brushing stray hair away gently. Treize seemed calmer, but not calm enough.
"What did I say?" he asked, genuinely worried about his lover. Something seemed to be wrong. Maybe he had... Oh God... "Did I say something hurtful?"
"No, angel. You could never do that," Treize said, kissing the tip of his nose. "I just hate to see you sick. I wish I could do something to keep you safe and happy. I do not want to hurt you."
"You keep me happy," he said, smiling softly. "And safe. You could never hurt me. I love you..." Again his eyes were closing, but this time he would sleep peacefully because he was feeling safe in his lover's arms. "I love you..." he whispered, and moments later he was asleep.
"And I love you," Treize said softly to the sleeping form of his lover. "I love you, and I wish I could really keep anything from hurting you. But it seems I can't..." He gently brushed Zechs' hair off his face, kissing his lover's forehead and holding him close as he struggled to calm himself. He had never seen Zechs like this, trembling and moaning in pain as the memories of the past struggled to surface. Staring ahead without really looking at him, the beautiful eyes wide and scared. So much like the six-year-old boy that had arrived one night at his house... And then the pain and guilt in his lover's voice when Zechs had remembered the battle that had allowed him to leave OZ... Treize had given the order because he'd had no choice. It had been the only thing he had been able to do for Zechs.
If you had died then...
Treize closed his eyes, trembling slightly and trying to get a hold of his emotions. He was afraid to lose his lover. Zechs had enjoyed a peaceful time at the refuge on holy ground, but as soon as they had returned to Kiev the dreams had come back again. Not always nightmares, but nightmares too. Zechs would just toss on the bed, calling for him and talking about things that he would forget as soon as he was completely awake. And now this... What if Zechs remembered it all and it was too much for him? Madness was a possibility, and it scared Treize. He couldn't let this happen to the blond man. He had to keep Zechs safe and happy, he had to protect him...
But there was another reason why Treize dreaded the moment when Zechs' memory came back, and it was the possibility that his lover left him again. Back then during the war, Treize had failed to realize that the conflict in Zechs' mind between the pacifist and the soldier was tearing his lover apart. Treize had always been able to spot the small changes that preceded a crisis, but this time he hadn't been paying attention, and Zechs had left...
Not again, he thought, running his fingers through silky strands of hair. Not this time.... I will not lose you ever again...
A light knock at the door made him turn around. "Treize?" It was Methos. His mentor had taken Dr. Krueger back to Kiev and probably brought some medicines, sedatives that would allow Zechs to sleep should the nightmares become worse.
Treize stood, being careful not to wake Zechs. He could not leave the blond man alone just now, and he had no desire to do so. Treize was aware that the moment he had awaited and feared at the same time would come soon. He opened the door and let the older man in.
"Is he asleep?" Methos asked, peering at the younger man lying on the bed. Treize nodded, too weary to speak. He wished he could sleep for days, holding Zechs close and waking only to realize that this was a dream, that he and his angel were still at that refuge between Russia and Ukraine. That the younger man was happy and untroubled by nightmares... And looking at him with nothing but love in his eyes. "You should sleep, kid," he heard Methos say. "If I didn't know better I would think that it is you whom Dr. Krueger came to check on."
"Sleep eludes me right now, my friend," Treize said tiredly, eyes fixed for a moment on Zechs before looking back at Methos. "But I shall try to at least have some rest. Milliard needs me now, more than before. His memories are coming back, and the most painful ones are coming first..."
"It was only a matter of time, Treize," Methos said quietly. "He can't go on like this... He needs more help, and you know it."
"A psychiatrist? Dr. Krueger has mentioned it already, but Milliard doesn't want to see anyone else..."
"And you are going to accept this? You know well that if it depended on him, Milliard would not even see Dr. Krueger," Methos said in a hushed but urgent voice. "When are you going to realize that this is hurting him?"
"I know that this is hurting him," he said, in a barely controlled voice. "But I cannot force him to see a psychiatrist if he doesn't want to. Milliard would have to cooperate for this to be worthwhile."
"Convince him!"
"I can't," he said, moving towards the window. "I tried once and he became so upset that it was very difficult to calm him. Do you think I like to see him suffer?"
"I know you don't. I'm just worried for him. Don't think me heartless, kid. Maybe I have just lived enough to know that there is no easy way out of this. It will be painful, I'm aware of that, but it's necessary." Methos paused, glancing at Milliard with sad eyes. "I know how tempting it is to just leave him be. For the first time since I know Milliard, he is acting his age. A young man of twenty..."
Treize sighed. "Twenty-one in some days... I wish I could give Milliard his memories back and spare him the pain..."
"You are scared, kid," Methos said, joining him at the window. "You think that once he remembers his past, Milliard will leave..." Treize shook his head, but Methos placed a hand on his arm. "He loves you desperately, Treize! You should know that."
"I know he loves me..."
"Treize...?" The soft voice coming from the bed interrupted him. Zechs was blinking drowsily, a soft smile on his lips. Treize smiled and sat on the bed, and Zechs moved closer, making himself comfortable in his arms.
"Did you sleep well, Milliard?" he asked quietly, a hand tucking stray strands of hair behind Zechs' ears.
"I did," Zechs said, barely suppressing a yawn. He looked so relaxed that Treize felt the urge to take his lover away where nothing could reach him. The younger man looked around and saw their guest. "Methos..."
"How are you feeling, kid?" Methos asked, coming to stand beside the bed.
"Incredibly tired," Zechs said, the smile still on his lips. "But I hope to feel better tomorrow so I can leave the bed. You don't need to worry. I'll be alright in some hours."
"You will stay in bed until Dr. Krueger says that you are fit to leave it," Methos said. "I promised the old man that you would rest, and I will tie you to that bed if that's what it takes." Zechs looked shocked for a moment, and then a frown started forming on his forehead.
Treize smiled. "I am sure that Milliard will listen to Dr. Krueger's advice," he said, slowly combing the long silky strands with his fingers. Zechs said nothing, the frown still in place.
"Of course there is an alternative," Methos said, eyeing Zechs critically. "Did I ever tell you that I was a medical doctor once? We won't need to call anyone to give you a shot. I've got the sedatives here."
Zechs' eyes widened. "Surely you don't mean to... Which century?"
"Sometime during the Bronze Age," Methos said, eyes twinkling with mischief. "You would be amazed to know how advanced the medical techniques were back then..."
"Do not worry, Milliard," Treize said, laughing softly when Zechs started to back away on the bed. "Methos was a doctor at the end of the eighteenth century."
"That is still five centuries ago..." Zechs seemed about to bolt from the bed, so Treize placed his arms around his lover's waist, his hold on the younger man loose, though. "I don't need a shot..."
"Then rest," Methos said simply. "I have some business to attend, I will see you both later." After this words Methos left, muttering something about stubborn children as he walked outside the room.
"Are you sure he will not try to give me a shot while I am asleep?" Zechs was leaning against Treize's frame, azure eyes fixed on the closed door.
Treize smiled. "Methos was teasing you, Milliard. He might tie you to the bed, though..."
"I am perfectly alright. Just tired," Zechs insisted. "You know how this goes, beloved. I'll feel tired for a while, but then everything will be alright again."
"It was really bad this time, love," Treize said, caressing the pale cheek of his lover. "I think your memory might come back soon..."
"I don't want my memory to come back..." Zechs moved away from his arms, shaking his head as if this simple gesture would prevent him from healing. "I am happy like this. I don't need the past. I don't need the Sank Kingdom and the White Fang and all those terrible things I did..."
"Milliard..." Zechs had never reacted like this before, save for the day when Dr. Krueger had suggested the blond man saw a psychiatrist. "Calm yourself." Treize gathered the trembling figure in his arms and held him close. "Calm yourself, angel. I will not force you to do anything you don't want to do."
"I know I am being selfish," Zechs whispered against his chest. "But if I remember I will have to deal with the consequences of my crimes during the war... I might be judged by a court, and that could mean being separated from you..."
"No!" Treize's hold on his lover tightened slightly. "You must not fear that, my love. You saved the earth in the end. You sacrificed yourself to stop the Libra."
"But I didn't die, and I was responsible for the Libra almost falling on Earth in the first place... I don't mind paying for my crimes, but I will die if I have to live away from you."
"That will not happen," Treize said firmly. "Even if your memory comes back, that doesn't mean that you have to stand trial or make your survival known. Never fear that, Milliard. There is no force on earth that can take you away from me."
A week had passed since Milliard had collapsed after a rather nasty memory flashback. Methos had seen only part of it, but he had been as shaken as Treize when the blond man had spoken about death. That kid had really been through too much in his short life, and now it was all coming back to him. No wonder Treize was so determined not to let anything disturb Milliard. Treize's life hadn't been much easier, but his self-confidence had allowed the ginger-haired man to cope with the pain and loss he had endured during the war in a much better way. It had been different with Milliard...
The blond man had stayed in bed for nearly five days. Milliard had first been too tired to stay awake for more than a few hours, in which Treize had stuffed his lover with food, with Methos' blessing. And then, when the younger man had started to feel better, it had been Methos' comments about needing to practice his medical skills that had kept Milliard in bed. They had allowed the blond man to leave the bed to celebrate his birthday. Milliard had spent the day between the garden and a small cozy salon that had been his and Treize's refuge before the war. They had had a nice dinner, along with the Highlander, and after this Treize had led a happy but exhausted Milliard back to bed.
The world had moved along the correct path during this week... as Treize would say. The peace conference between Earth and the colonies had been threatened when the remnants of the White Fang and the Century Discover Corporation, this last a branch of the Romafeller Foundation, had united in a new attempt to take over the Earth. The threat of a war had been hanging over their heads for a few days, but it had all been solved when the ex-Gundam pilots had discovered Sogran's plans and stopped him.
Methos and Treize had kept Milliard unaware of these events. They had kept quiet even about Relena Peacecraft's disappearance. Fortunately the girl had come back unharmed; Methos wouldn't have wanted to see Treize having to explain to Milliard that his sister was hurt or worse. But they taken the wisest choice on this. Milliard had been in no condition to do anything, so telling him would have served no purpose but to upset the blond man and hamper his recovery. Dr. Krueger had been clear enough on his last visit. If they didn't keep Milliard calm, the the nightmares and flashbacks would get worse, placing the blond man's sanity at stake.
Treize was worrying Methos too. His student was tense, never getting enough rest, and avoiding the topic of Milliard's amnesia as much as possible. This was not good... not at all. Methos was sure that if something happened to the blond man it would be almost impossible to keep Treize from doing something drastic, like taking his own life... It would not be the first time that the ginger-haired man would think of suicide as a solution... He could not allow this to happen... There had to be a way out of this... Sighing, Methos stirred on the bed, and at once Duncan's arms tightened around his body.
"What's wrong, Methos?" his lover asked, and only then Methos realized that Duncan had been awake all this time. He should have known; it was already late by the Highlander's standards. "It's seven in the morning," Duncan continued. "Either you are sick or worried about something."
"I am worried," he admitted somewhat reluctantly. He was glad about Duncan's presence; he welcomed the closeness and the support in protecting the kids. But at the same time he didn't want Duncan involved in his battle with Vazquez.
"Milliard seems to be better," Duncan said, gathering him close. "I must confess that I was shocked when I saw him the day I arrived here. He looked so pale and exhausted that I feared he would fall sick again. But he has recovered within days."
Methos nodded. "Knowing that his birthday was close has certainly helped a lot," he said. Duncan smiled at this. "It's eerie to see him now, you know?" Methos continued, playing absently with a long strand of brown hair. "Milliard was always so tense during the war... I don't think I ever saw him smile. And he didn't like me at all."
"I bet he was jealous," Duncan said, eyeing him matter-of-factly. "You came here often, didn't you?"
"Not again, Highlander." Methos rolled his eyes and sighed theatrically. "How many times do I have to tell you that I have never seen Treize but as a younger brother? But you may be right about Milliard being jealous. That stubborn blond can be as unreasonable as certain Scot I happen to know." Duncan laughed good-naturedly. "Yes, laugh all you want. But Milliard and you are similar in many aspects."
"You said the same about Treize and me," Duncan said, a hint of amusement in his voice. "One would think that you are obsessed with me..." This was followed by a deep kiss that left Methos breathless.
"I must be insane for putting up with a stubborn Scot like you..." he said, still trying to catch his breath. "But you have your good points..."
"So I can hope to keep you interested in me for more than a few centuries?" Duncan whispered in a husky voice, his lips barely touching Methos' earlobe. It was enough to make him shiver. Damned Highlander... But maybe it was good to be able to relax and give into the comfort of his lover's arms. Vazquez had apparently left the area, and even though they still needed to be cautious, maybe for once the ancient Spaniard had decided to leave a fight that he could not win. Because if Vazquez killed Treize, Methos would hunt him down and take his head, no matter how long it would take.
"You can try..." he said somewhat breathlessly after a new series of teasing touches from the Highlander. It was almost frightening how Duncan could reduce him to this shivering creature that wanted nothing but to be taken by the damned brat. "You are becoming good at this..." he teased his lover before he was sent into a new spiral of lust when Duncan started to trail kisses down his chest, lingering in the most sensitive spots for unending seconds. His lover's hands were roaming all over his body in the manner of someone who knows which buttons to press to make him lose himself in pleasure completely.
"Am I good enough?" Duncan whispered in Methos' ear, before devouring his mouth in an almost rough kiss. Methos was sinking into a sea of bliss without caring about whatever would happen next. He was letting go of control... and it was starting to frighten him.
"Not yet," he said before flipping positions and pinning Duncan down with his body. "Not yet, Highlander, but you are close..." He bent to kiss his lover, parting Duncan's lips and exploring his lover's mouth until they were both breathless. He then proceeded to worship his lover's body in the same manner Duncan had done before, slowly bringing the younger immortal close to the edge.
"Need to be in control still?" Duncan whispered, his beautiful eyes burning with desire. "Not this time, Methos... I want you to trust me..." He was being pulled down for a new kiss and his lover's arms were coming around him, and he was losing himself again in the Highlander's passion. Methos forced himself to relax and not try to gain the upper hand again. He could trust Duncan... he should be able to trust his lover after all this time of being together. But the truth was that even though he was determined to forget and be happy with his lover again, the scars of their last fight were still there.
"I love you, Methos," Duncan breathed before kissing him again, and Methos felt his wariness slowly being washed away as his lover teased his body with touches and kisses, until the last coherent thought left his mind.
"I love you, Higlander..." They made love, and Methos allowed himself to just feel and not think that maybe this would not last, that his lover might again distrust him and hurt him... if it wasn't fate that separated them this time. This was what they had now, and it was worthwhile risking his heart again if only to feel the love in his lover's touch and words. Duncan could take him from Hell to Heaven, and then back to Hell again. But Methos loved him, it was that simple. He loved the stubborn Scot and would always love him.
When Methos came back to his senses it was past mid morning and Duncan was calling him. "Methos, wake! We cannot stay in bed all day..."
"Why not?" he said, burying his head under a pillow. "It's not as if we have to work or something... I'll tell you what Highlander. You go and take a shower. I will join you in some minutes..."
"Methos..." Duncan took away the pillow and the covers, laughing when Methos protested loudly. "Good," the Highlander said, still holding the covers away from him. "Now you are completely awake."
"I will get you for this, Highlander," Methos muttered, leaving the bed and starting his way to the bathroom. Duncan just followed, smiling broadly and ignoring Methos' threats about taking his head if only to wipe that smile off his face.
"Milliard?" Zechs could feel Treize's voice calling him, but he was not sure if his lover was calling him in his dreams or if the hands gently touching his face were the real thing. "Milliard, we really should leave the bed. It's almost noon, beloved."
Noon? Zechs blinked when the kiss on his lips felt more real than the arms embracing him in his dream. He smiled sleepily at his lover, and when Treize's lips came on his, he gave into the kiss. The beautiful dream was slowly fading, giving way to the reality of Treize's arms around him.
"I was dreaming of you," he said, his voice husky. Treize smiled, brushing Zechs' hair off his face and kissing the tip of his nose before gathering him close. Zechs sighed contentedly, resting his head on his lover's chest. "I was in your arms, just like this," he continued, enjoying the feeling of long fingers brushing his hair lovingly.
"Then it was not a dream, because you are in my arms and I love you." Treize kissed him again, and Zechs could feel his lover's kisses becoming more urgent as the arms around his body brought him closer still. "My Milliard," Treize whispered against his lips. "My beautiful angel... I love you..."
"And I love you too..." The last of the sleepiness was gone when Treize started a trail of kisses in the spot behind his ear and down his neck, lingering in the hollow of his throat for unending seconds. The heat of passion spread through Zechs' body and he buried his hands in his lover's soft hair, bring him up for a new kiss that left them breathless. "I want you..." he whispered. "I need you..."
"You have me..." Treize whispered, slowly rolling on the bed until Zechs was lying atop his lover. "I am yours..."
Zechs started a new kiss, his hands roaming over his lover's slim body, delighted to feel Treize shivering in response. Passion rose between them with renewed force as Zechs placed tentative kisses down his lover's chest, the small sounds of pleasure his lover was making encouraging him. His lips closed over one nipple and Treize's body arched against his, the arms around his body tightening again.
"Milliard... my beautiful Milliard..." Treize looked so beautiful as his face flushed with passion, the warmth radiating from his body almost intoxicating.
"Treize... my Treize... I love you..." They shared more kisses, touching each other and trembling as the pleasure took them over, erasing the world around them. And when Zechs took his lover, it was bliss to feel the slim body moving under him, to hear again the most private words of love they shared whenever they were alone. Zechs could feel his climax slowly building, but he held back until his lover was close and they both came almost at the same time, and Treize held tightly to him, again saying that he loved him.
"I thought you wanted us to leave the bed," he said after a while, his face half buried against Treize's neck, an arm encircling possessively the beloved figure. This had been the first time Zechs had taken the lead, the first in this new life they had...
"It was the general idea," Treize said softly. "But you are too beautiful and tempting for me to resist."
"And why would you want to resist?" he asked playfully, raising his head and scrutinizing his lover's face.
"I could not, even if I wanted to," Treize said, a slow smile spreading on his lips. "You have bewitched me. I was yours since the day I saw you at your father's house."
"You said I was six... Then you must have been... eleven... I must have been boring for you then."
"Never," Treize said, his eyes turning serious for a moment. "You were never boring, my angel. You were beautiful and gentle... And I fell in love with you without even being aware of it."
Zechs smiled, feeling warm inside. When Treize spoke about the past it didn't hurt. Somehow his lover always managed to make things look so good, so simple. And Zechs immensely enjoyed these bits of information about their past, as long as the real memories didn't come back and manage to separate them. Zechs feared that. He was sure that he would always love Treize, and that whatever happened next, his love for the ginger-haired man would never stop. But he had done such terrible things... he had caused so much pain... and he was afraid that paying for his mistakes might take him away from his lover.
"Hold me, please..." he whispered, needing to feel his lover close. The fear was there again, and he couldn't shake it away. But as soon as his lover's arms came around him, his racing heartbeat slowed again, and Zechs closed his eyes, determined not to let Treize see his uneasiness.
"Is something wrong, Milliard?" Treize asked, stroking his back and hair. So much for trying to hide his thoughts.
"Nothing is wrong, beloved," he whispered. "I just need to feel you close... I am so happy that it makes me afraid."
"Do not be afraid, my angel," Treize said, placing a hand on his chin and making him look up. "You should not be afraid of being happy..." Zechs nodded, managing to hold his lover's gaze without letting the tears come out. He was calming, he always calmed when Treize looked at him like that. "I will always be at your side, beloved," his lover said, sapphire eyes scrutinizing him. "And I will protect you."
"I love you..." Gentle hands were caressing his cheeks and pulling him down for a tender kiss. "I will always love you..."
"And I love you..." Treize was sitting on the bed, pulling him up until Zechs was sitting in his lover's lap, head resting against Treize's chest. This seemed the safest place for him. Zechs closed his eyes, enjoying the closeness and the feeling of safety. Nothing bad would happen when Treize held him like this.
Treize was holding his lover close, the thought of taking the blond man to Methos' house on C-126 more appealing as time passed. In space and away from everything that reminded him of the past, Zechs would calm down. And maybe his nightmares would cease... Treize felt a pang of guilt. He was actually hoping that his lover's memory never came back, and that was not fair for the younger man. But Treize was so afraid to lose Zechs. And he didn't want his angel to suffer again under the weight of his past. He had seen enough of it during the terrible nightmares that used to disturb Zechs' rest.
He tightened his hold on his lover without even realizing it. Zechs shifted a little in his arms but did not move away. "Sorry," Treize said, easing his hold on the slim body and kissing Zechs' cheek.
"Don't be sorry," Zechs whispered, head still resting on Treize's shoulder. "There is no better place on earth for me than in your arms." The hand resting on his chest slid up and to his nape, pulling him close for a kiss. It was sweet and passionate at the same time, and Treize found himself wondering if it would really make him a bad host if he kept Zechs in bed for a bit longer.
"I love you," he whispered against the younger man's lips. "My beautiful angel..." Something was wrong. Zechs was staring ahead, his eyes slightly unfocused, the same they had been a week ago when the blond man had collapsed in his arms. "Milliard..." There was no reaction, and Treize shook his lover slightly, calling him again.
"Eh?" Zechs blinked, looking at him in confusion. "Is something wrong? Why are you looking at me like that?"
"Nothing is wrong," Treize hurried to say, not about to unsettle the younger man by telling him what had just happened. "I just was wondering if you are up to leaving the bed. You looked... tired."
Zechs smiled. "I am... which is strange... But it's understandable, isn't it?" The blond man leaned on him, kissing him softly. "I would rather sleep right now, but our guests must be wondering..."
"You are right, beloved," he said, scrutinizing the pale face. There was no way back, he was sure now. Zechs' memory was coming back, and it would happen soon. He trembled slightly at the mere thought, but forced himself to be calm for Zechs' sake. He would call Dr. Krueger this afternoon.
They left the bed, and after a quick shower they both got dressed and left the room in search of their guests. They found Methos lounging on the terrace, eyes half closed, a can of beer in a hand. There was no trace of Duncan. Treize had slid an arm around Zechs' waist and didn't let go of his lover until the younger man had taken a seat.
"Where is Duncan?" Zechs asked, looking around. "He promised to teach me how to use a katana." Methos smiled, obviously amused by the interest that Duncan had taken on teaching Zechs how to use the Japanese weapon. But Treize could see the concern in the hazel eyes; Methos had noticed too how pale the blond man was.
"That will have to wait, kid," Methos said, resting the empty can of beer on the table. "Duncan was called from Seacouver. And old acquaintance is sick... She's got a terminal illness..."
"That is terrible..." Zechs whispered. Treize placed a hand on his lover's, concern washing over him when he touched cold skin.
"It was to be expected, kid," Methos said gently. "Duncan and I knew that this would happen."
"So you know her too?" Treize asked, wondering if Duncan had already left. But if it was someone Methos also knew, the older immortal would surely leave with his lover.
"Yes. It was the adoptive daughter of an old mutual friend," Methos said. "Duncan raised Angela when her mother died. I met her the day of her wedding. She was a nice young woman."
"Was Angela's mother an immortal?" Zechs asked suddenly. Treize flinched inwardly when Methos nodded. Reminding the blond man about the way immortals died was the last thing Zechs needed now.
"You will leave with Duncan, of course," Treize said, relieved that Vazquez seemed to have left the area for now.
"I will be back as soon as possible," Methos said. "There are some legal issues we need to work out," the older man added when Zechs looked at him in surprise. Treize nodded. He had willed his estate to Zechs, but a clause was needed that stated that if the blond man died the estate would pass to a younger member of the Khushrenada family. That was, to Treize himself. He hated to have to do this, but Methos had been adamant and he had had to give up. If only they could be sure that Zechs was immortal too. If they could at least find a proof that his lover had been adopted by the old King. It would be something to start with for immortals were orphans. Treize himself had never known that he had been adopted by the old Duke.
Duncan chose that moment to come out of the house. "We have to be at the airport in two hours," he explained after greeting them. "I think we should better start packing, Methos."
"You are right," Methos said, standing and casting a worried glance at Zechs. "Stay put, kid, and don't overdo it," Methos told the blond man before regaining his usual calm mask. "And you keep practicing." Treize nodded, and after those words the two older immortals left the terrace, heading for their bedroom. Treize asked Dimitry to have the car ready for them, and an hour later Methos and Duncan had left the estate for the airport.
"It's sad," Zechs said after a long while in which he had been silent. They were resting in the small salon they so loved. "Duncan must feel so much pain to see her die..."
Treize almost gasped, his hold on Zechs tightening once more. It was as if he were being stabbed by his lover's words. His angel was describing what would happen to them if Zechs wasn't an immortal and died old. Or if they never got to know. He had never asked Methos about this, but he wasn't so sure that Zechs would come back if he died from old age... There had to be a point where not even immortal healing could prevent the body from collapsing... He didn't want that to happen to Zechs, but he couldn't risk making a mistake on this.
"I thought I would die when I saw Tallgeese II exploding. I wanted to die when I realized that you were gone..."
Treize froze, his eyes searching Zechs' and finding they were unfocused once again.
"I should have died then..."
"No Milliard... Please don't say those things..." he pleaded softly. Zechs was trembling, but Treize was trembling too.
"Who... who am I?" Zechs whispered, closing his eyes and clutching at his head as if in pain. "Who am I, Treize? Am I Milliard Peacecraft? Or Zechs Merquise? Too much..." The blond man was shaking his head, trembling violently now.
"Look at me, please," Treize said urgently, taking Zechs' hands in his. "You are Milliard Peacecraft... Zechs is just another name, but you are Milliard, and you must not be afraid. I am here for you. I am here, and I love you."
The azure eyes were glazed, and there was a split second when it seemed that Zechs didn't recognize him. But little by little life came back to the beautiful eyes, and the pale skin seemed to regain some color. "Treize..." Zechs whispered, before going limp in his arms.
"Milliard!" Exhaustion was plain on the younger man's face, and for some dreadful moments Treize had the feeling that his lover was unaware of his surroundings. "Don't fight the memories, love," he whispered, struggling to get a hold of himself.
"Too much... I can't... Help me..."
"I am here." He held Zechs close, stroking the blond man's hair and back, kissing his lover's forehead and whispering soothing words until Zechs seemed to calm down. "I love you," he repeated over and over again, until the azure eyes closed and his lover fell asleep. "I am here, Milliard," Treize whispered to the sleeping man in his arms. "I will not let go of you. I will protect you..."
Airport
They had just arrived at the airport. Methos was following Duncan through the hall, unable to shake off his worry about Treize and Milliard. The blond man hadn't looked well at all when he and Duncan had left Treize's house this morning. Fighting the return of his memories, even if doing it unconsciously, was weakening Milliard, and things had definitely gotten worse after the two young lovers had come back to Kiev. The moment was close, and somehow Methos had the feeling that it would not be easy for either man. Many painful things had happened between them, and even though their love had survived the war, Methos was not so sure if it would survive the pain that awaited them.
Methos had seen so many young lovers separate when the pain had been too much for them to bear. It had happened to Duncan and him, in spite of their age and experience. The kids were doing well at the moment, but even though Methos hoped that this would not change, he was aware that anything could happen once the past came back with full force.
"I hope we arrive at Seacouver in time," he heard Duncan say. "Methos... are you listening to me at all? You've been distracted since we have left Treize's estate..."
"Sorry Mac," he said, feeling slightly uneasy that Duncan had realized that his mind was focused anywhere else but on Angela's coming death. Methos didn't know the woman well, but he had certainly known the mother. Samira had tried to kill Duncan, almost had succeeded because the Highlander had been his usual chivalrous self. But at least this time Methos hadn't needed to be the executioner. Duncan had done it this time, when Samira had turned her anger towards Methos, and they had taken the child under their protection since then.
"You are still worried about them," Duncan said, and Methos perceived a trace of reproach in his lover's voice. The Highlander had never taken it well to have to share his attention... young ones were so jealous... But it was not as if Duncan had been a saint either. Methos could still remember his lover's infatuation with Kate... Glen... The only woman Duncan had ever married, the one Methos had never known about before. And there was no reason for the Highlander to be jealous this time, anyway. Treize was his student and nothing else.
"I am," he admitted somewhat reluctantly. "That kid is not doing well... I am worried about what will happen when his memory comes back."
"Don't you think they will be able to get over with this by themselves? Forgive me, Methos, but it's not like you to worry so much." The Highlander smiled as if to soften his words. "I know you care for them, but you tend to... overreact when it comes to Treize."
"Well, maybe even I can form bonds with other people," he said sullenly.
"They will be alright, Methos," Duncan said soothingly. "Whatever happened between them during the war, it can be forgiven... And don't look so surprised. I have learned one or two things in the last three centuries."
"It was time, Highlander," he said, a faint smile on his lips. But he still had doubts. It had taken three centuries for Duncan to learn... Treize had that time, but Milliard... "Maybe I am worrying too much," he said, not wanting to push the point further. It was not fair. Duncan was suffering too. It was time to board the plane. "Let's go, Mac," he said, pulling his duffel back from the floor and placing it over his shoulder. "Angela is waiting."
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