Author’s notes: I guess this should be at the beginning, oops, heh heh. It’s been awhile since my last fic, hope everyone hasn’t forgotten about me. <crickets chirping> <coughs> <one cheer goes up> Thank you. Anyways, this is going to be a very long fic. The first chapter a spur of the moment thing so it took me a while to figure out the 2nd chapter and how the story should go. I am not great at chapter fics (the plot gets a little screwy) so go easy on me. This story is rated NC-17 for a reason so take it seriously. The story is pretty dark (surprise surprise). Before somebody complains about it, I didn’t make Treize a ‘bad’ character because I don’t like him. I like Treize, but my hobby is torturing and twisting characters I like. <Anime characters gasp in horror and runs for cover. > <Cackles evilly> Back to what I was saying. I don’t own Gundam Wing…(I think you hear this often enough), I am just borrowing them and will return them to other fanfic authors only slightly worn at the edges. Treize: "That’s what you said last time." <throws Treize off stage> Ok, so I lied, sue me. Enjoy the story, have to go now, I think Lady Une is after me with a laser canon…Ja ne Sunlight streamed through the French windows hitting the occupant of the bed. Ann opened her eyes a crack. Damn the blasted sun. She had dreamed of fangs and blood, or was it a dream? It was already fading from her memory so she gave up on it and focused on a more pleasant thought, one that included sapphire eyes. Her arm automatically reached to the side only to find it empty. Her eyes snapped open to find her companion seated at the foot of the bed, already dressed. He wore all white except for the gold chains that decorated his vest. "Good morning, would you like breakfast?" He said offering her a mango. "No thanks," she mumbled, attempting to shake the last traces of sleep from her eyes. Her eyes widened when she noticed the clock hanging on the wall. "10:00 o’clock!" Her father would have noticed she was missing when she didn’t show up for breakfast this morning. Her original plan was to sneak back in the middle of the night and claim she simply stayed late at the ball. Unfortunately, that is no longer an option and she is going to have a lot of explaining to do. "Problem?" Asked Treize noting her panicked expression. "Yes, I need to get back home as soon as possible." She said jumping out of bed. She noticed with amusement the slightest flicker of Treize’s eyes as they rested on her naked body. "That can be arranged. But, if the problem is an enraged parent, I think I can deal with it." Ann chuckled as she hunted for her garments. "I’m sure you had plenty of experience. But I think this one is a little too big even for you to handle." Treize raised an eyebrow. "Oh? And who is this person?" "My father is Major General Layfayette, Earl of Canre. You might have heard of him." Treize’s expression shifted for a split second, but he immediately regained his mask of composure. "Indeed, I do know him" "Then you know how explosive his temper is." She said with a grin. Treize nodded slowly. "I understand. I will arrange a ride for you at once." Treize opened the car door and waited patiently. Ann was reluctant to leave. She had a taste of freedom and was unwilling to return to the confines of her family. For a single fleeting second, she imagined herself eloping with her lover like in romance novels, but that idea faded as quickly as it had come. It was too much to ask of him. He was a rich aristocrat and probably unwilling to leave a life of luxury and power behind. They both have their duties. "Do not worry. You will see me again." She looked up in surprise, her spirits lifting a bit. "Where can I find you?" "You don’t have to, I will find you." She nodded and got in the car. Before he could, close the door she said, "you never told me your name." "It is not wise for you to know it right know, but you may call me Thoren for now." She smiled. "Thoren, I will remember that." Treize watched until the limousine disappeared over the horizon. Interesting how fates entwine and affect each other, he thought. Only now did he realize how much she fascinated him. There was something about her that he can’t quite grasp, something fierce and thrilling that attracted him more than any women he had met in his 400 years of life. It is almost a pity they were going to be enemies. Or perhaps it will make the game more interesting. For a moment, he wondered if he was being too cruel interfering with her life like this, but dismissed the idea almost immediately. He doesn’t read stories, he writes them. He will shape the future as he wishes regardless of the consequences. Ann tuned out her father after the first 15 minutes. She limited her reaction to small random nods of agreement with whatever he was yelling about. Her chauffeur had offered to come in with her on orders from "The Master", but she had politely turned him down. She didn’t want to bring her father’s wrath on her "friend" when it really hasn’t been his fault. As soon as she had come through the door, her father had dragged her to his study where he had been lecturing her for the past half an hour. Her thoughts almost unconsciously turned to Thoren. She wondered if she felt love or lust towards him. She had never been in love so she wouldn’t know. But she was attracted to his sense of mystery and gentlemanly ways. You will see me again. She smiled, she hoped their next meeting will be soon. General Lafayette regarded his daughter suspiciously, her eyes were glazed over and she had a dreamy smile. He paused in his lecture. "You are not listening to me are you?" She nodded absently, "Umhmm." His eyes flashed in annoyance. "Ann!" She jumped and snapped back to reality. Lafayette sighed, suddenly feeling very old and tired. Of all his children, Ann was the most difficult. Maybe it was because she was the only girl in her family and never had a mother to look up to, but she didn’t live up to what he expected. Maybe he was the one being too hard on her. He constantly compared her to his deceased wife, his idea of perfection. Ann was nothing like that. She had always run with the boys, practicing horse riding, fighting, and armed combat with the best of them. She had refused to learn any lessons that were fit for a lady and constantly defied her father as she is doing right now. Lafayette ran a hand through his graying hair in frustration. She had refused to tell him where she had gone last night. She is so defiant, so stubborn, almost like himself when he was younger. He loved his daughter very much, but this behavior has to stop here and now. He fixed her with a stern look. "Ann, you are confined to the estate for the next 3 months. You will take all your lessons and obey the rules of this family. If you misbehave again, your punishment will be much more severe." Ann stared at him in disbelieve "I am almost a grown women, you can’t treat me like a child." "Don’t argue with me. I am your father, I think I have the authority over you." "It’s not fair!" She muttered in what she knew was a childish manner. "Ann, act like a lady. You will be married as soon as I find a suitable husband for you, no man would like a women that throws tantrums." "I don’t want to be married to some noble man’s son! You don’t even like most of them anyway." She’s got a point. Even though he was of noble blood, Lafayette was loyal to the Alliance and didn’t like the trouble Romeffeleur is stirring up, especially with those young aristocrats… He shook his head. He had a lot more to worry about now beside his daughter. "That is enough. Go to your room and stay there until it’s time for your embroidery lessons." Ann bit back a angry retort, knowing it would be no use to argue with him. Instead, she spun on her heels and stomped out the door. "Wait." She turned around impatiently. "Listen to me for once, this is for your own good." He said in gentler tones. She sighed and walked more quietly out the door. She supposes she really deserved this for disappearing like that. And her father’s constant dissatisfaction was partially her fault. But he didn’t understand she wasn’t and will never be the lady he has in his mind. She was wild and free, not some rich man’s wife who spends all day embroidering shirts. She pushed open the door to her room and flopped onto the bed. 3 months, she sighed, I wonder if I can make it through. The thug skulked through the narrow alley. Ducking behind an overflowing trashcan, he observed the man walking towards him. A rich man judging from the way he moved and the clothing he wore. Also a foolish one to be walking down a deserted ally in the worst part of town during the darkest part of night. He was fortunate have found such an easy victim. He licked his lips and tightened his grip on his knife. The man walked past him, seemingly unaware of the threat. The thug jumped out of hiding and pressed the knife to his back. "Alright mister, hand over the cash and jewelry and you won’t be hurt." He snarled. To his surprise, the man chuckled quietly. "The odds are so uneven." He said in a smooth and cultured voice. "Yes, there is no point in resisting." Gloated the thug. "You are right. Don’t give me too much trouble." He spun around so quickly the thug had no time to react. A iron hand clamped around his neck cutting off his air, lifting his feet off the ground. "I suggest you follow your own advice." The man commented, his blue eyes glowing like twin flames. Fangs slid from their sheath protruding over his lower lip. With the strength of desperation, the thug plunged the knife deep into his attacker’s side. The pain only further flamed the vampire’s dark side. His free hand clamped over the thug’s wrist and squeezed with inhuman strength. The thug could only managed a gurgle as his bones cracked and splintered. The sapphire eyes mesmerized him, striking him with fear and helplessness as the vampire pulled him closer. With a gentle sigh, the vampire bit into his neck and sipped at the blood, careful to not spill a drop. The unfortunate thief’s good hand clamped tightly to the vampire’s shoulder, slowly relaxing as his strength flowed away. Finally, he dropped to the ground, barely alive. His slowly clouding eyes searched, searched desperately for an answer. The vampire pulled out the knife stuck between his ribs. It was only covered with a thin layer of blood, the injured flesh is already knitting together. He dropped to one knee and leaned until his face was almost touching the dying man. "If the lord of Death asks who sent you his way, tell him it is Treize Kushrenada, the one who is free from his grip forever, who mocks his authority. If he asks why, tell him it is the dark side of vampires." With those words, he stood and disappeared into the mist. Luxembourg, a month later Night fell peacefully upon the Kushrenada estate. Window rustled through the trees and crickets chirped in the distance. Treize sat quietly in meditation, listening to the sounds of nature around him. Nature fascinated him, in fact, it was probably the only power he admired. He smiled slightly when he heard the chirp of his songbirds. He had released them this morning, but as usual, they had come back by dusk. He liked to have control over his possession, whether it be by force or more subtle means. His sense alerted him to a person, and soon, he heard the familiar click of boots on marble tile. He only opened his eyes when he spoke. "Master I have news for you." Treize rose gracefully and walked to the window before gesturing to him to continue. "The preparations of phase one of our plans are complete. They shall be ready to be executed in exactly 1 month." Treize nodded. "Excellent. I will leave for Berlin immediately." His subordinate’s face reflected mild surprise. "Master, surely such insignificant operations does not require your presence." "I have personal reasons." "Would it happen to be a new companion you found on your last visit?" He commented with a hint of humor in his voice. He immediately regretted his words when Treize gave him a disapproving glare. "I believe this issue does not concern you." He twisted a silver ring on his finger nervously. "Of course, my apologies your Excellency." "Your objective is to avenge your family. Never forget that. Leave everything else to me, never question my orders. I gave you life when you were faced with death. Serve me loyally and you will have your revenge on the alliance. I consider you my aide, even a friend. But never cross me or the consequences won’t be pleasant." His voice remained cool and modulated like he was discussing what he wants for dinner. "I would never think of betraying you. I am bound to you by my honor." Treize laughed, like he had said something extremely amusing. "You are still young. You don’t understand the power of immortal blood. It can make slaves kings. No vampire can stand being a servant for long. I killed my master, I wouldn’t be surprised if you do the same." He shook his head and an almost sorrowful smile touched his lips. "But now is not a time for gloomy predictions. Let fate take it’s course. We will concentrate on doing our parts, if we succeed, the future will be glorious." The soldier bowed deeply and silently slipped from the room. Treize stared at the door he had just exited for a few moments. Zechs Marquise, another piece of the puzzle that is putting together the future. He had created a creature filled with his own magical blood. The actors have all assembled, the stage has been set, it is almost time to lift the curtain. Belgium Ann read the note again, her hands trembling in excitement. Thoren is back. He had told her to meet him at the edge of her estate tomorrow. She read the note one last time before pitching it into the fireplace. She sat down and frowned. How to get out of the estate unnoticed? She had been on her best behavior all month and her father had lifted the restrictions on her. But he had been keeping a very close eye on her making sure he knew where she was all the time. It would be a good time to ask her brothers for help. William is definitely not a possibility, he was too stern and will probably give her a lecture or send her to father. The twins Jeref and Jerald are away in the military. That leaves, Philip. He will tease her forever if he knew, but he was her only hope. An hour later, she got what she wanted, but not without many dirty remarks and a promise to help him out at a later date. Tomorrow, he was going hunting and will simply tell their father she is going with him. He had winked and said, "You have to be careful little sister. If you come home with something unexpected, even I can’t cover for you." She had turned bright red and kicked him in the shins. The next few weeks were the happiest in her time entire life. She sneaked out everyday to meet him, (with Philip’s help of course). He almost always met her at night, she assumed that he was busy during the day and did not question him. He took her to the best restaurants and opera houses in the city, but they spend most of their time just talking. He was the most intelligent man she had ever met. They could spend hours arguing over points in a favorite book or discussing scientific interests. . He never talked about himself, but liked to hear about Ann and her family. Perhaps his only fault is that he is always a bit distant, never expressing his emotions around her and rarely showed any tenderness outside the bedroom. It almost seems like she only saw an outside shell, not the man within. That didn’t matter much to her of course, no one was perfect. With his knowledge of weapons and mobile suits, Ann suspected Thoren was an officer in the military. But she never gave the matter much thought. His identity has become less important to her, she only thought of him, his handsome looks, his graceful ways, his perfect manners, his incredible knowledge, his iron-will, his sarcastic and ironic sense of humor. When she returned one night, she was so giddy with happiness that she failed to notice her father was unusually solemn. He paced back and forth ceaselessly, his head down in deep thought. She was curled on the sofa reading a book (more like day dreaming) when he suddenly looked up and said "do you know Treize Kushrenada?" She looked up startled. "Yes, I’ve heard of him. But I’ve never met him if that’s what you mean." He nodded quietly and went back to his pacing. She looked worriedly at him, "Father, are you OK?" He stopped and sighed deeply, but did not answer her question. "Is that man giving you trouble again. I heard you mention once that he was a leading member of the Romeffelleur foundation. Are they up to something?" "Go to bed Ann, it’s getting late." There was no pointing in pressing him when he is in one of his moods. She slid off the couch and walked over to him. "Goodnight Dad." Unexpectedly, he hugged her before kissing her on the forehead. "Goodnight Ann. I love you." She walked slowly up the stairs, the uneasiness in her stomach refusing to go away. Wind gusted across the fields, and dark clouds promised torrents of rain. Zechs gave a swift nod, a go ahead for the team of OZ commandos by his side. They moved swiftly, breaking and entering the mansion with practiced ease. Zechs, watched, disregarding the tiny drops of rain that were starting to fall. Soon, he heard the sound of gunfire. A middle-aged man ran from the house. He swore as he flicked his vid-com on. "This is Zechs Marquise, our target has escaped our strike heading in a northwest direction. All units, pursue at once. He must be killed at all costs." Ann looked up at the sky. A few drops of water splashed onto her face. "Let’s go inside before we are both soaked." Treize nodded absently, rubbing the hilt of his rapier thoughtfully until Ann poked him in the ribs. "Let’s go back to the hotel." He smiled slyly. "I’m sure we will find something to do there." "Oh really?" Ann asked even though she understood perfectly. Treize’s smile grew wider and he leaned down to kiss her lips- A shot kicked up the dirt in front of him. "That’s close enough, keep away from my daughter." Ann started in surprise, "Dad, what are you doing? What happened to you?" The older Lafayette was dirty and sweat-stained. He crossed the distance between them quickly, keeping his gun pointed at Treize. "I think it’s about time you tell her the truth, Lord Kushrenada." Treize bowed to her. "I must apologize." Ann gave him a confused look. "What’s going on? Who are you?" The man she thought she knew was disintegrating before her eyes. "I am Treize Kushrenada, Duke of Luxembourg, Chief Commander of Oz. And your father’s enemy." Ann was stunned, to say the least. "I-I-" Her father’s eyes were sorrowful. "I tried to keep my break with the aristocracy a secret from you Ann. But it only hurt you." His eyes narrowed with rage, his hand shook with anger. "This man is trying to kill all of us. He sent those soldiers to assassinate me. If I’ve known what he was doing to you, I would have torn him to pieces! He has been lying to you Ann, this damned aristocrat will be the end of us. I will finish him off right here and now to prevent further bloodshed." He pressed the trigger a bit further on his gun and a red dot appeared on Treize’s forehead. "No, father, don’t!" Ann ran in front of Treize. "There is some mistake. He can’t, he won’t kill us." Her eyes pleaded with Treize for her words to be true. Treize looked away. "There is no mistake. Everything the General said is true. The Alliance is my enemy and it’s allies obstacles in my path, I will eliminate them." His voice was intense, but steady. Lightning flashed in the background, it’s light making the entire scene seem unreal. Treize’s eyes hardened as he shoved Ann aside. "Do what you wish General, but you will find that I don’t die easily." Lafayette fired. One second Treize was there, the next second he was not. Ann blinked in disbelieve. That is not humanly possible. The rapier whistled through the air and Lafayette’s gun clattered to the floor. Ann leapt forward grabbed Treize’s arm. "Treize, what are you doing?! Stop! Both of you!" Lafayette pulled Ann aside. "Don’t interfere, this is between me and him." He spun around as a sixth sense warned him, pulling out another gun hidden within his coat. The soldier screamed as he toppled over. The hills bristled with troops. More shots were exchanged and a soldier fell lifeless at their feet. Ann caught a glimpse of red that made her feel sick before Treize pulled her against him. "Don’t look." He warned. Suddenly, Lafyette jerked and staggered. A strangled sound escaped his lips as he dropped to the ground. "Father!" Ann broke away from Treize and dropped besides her parent’s body. Zechs and a group of soldiers appeared on Treize’s right. Zechs started towards her, but Treize halted him with an outstretched arm. Her tears dropped onto his still body. The first tears she had shed since she was a little girl. Suddenly, she had so much to say to him. To apologize for not meeting his expectations, to tell him that she loved and admired him as a father. Lafayette smiled at her and tried to say something, but it died in his throat and his spirit sailed for the dark gates. There was silence broken only by the soft pattering of rain. Treize’s boots crunched through the mud as he walked slowly towards her. "Don’t come any closer, Treize Kushrenada." The words left a bitter taste in her mouth. Rain mixed with tears coursed down her cheek. He ignored her and came to stand beside her. Her hands were clenched into fists and her face was hidden from him. He had no warning. She jumped to her feet and yanked the rapier from his grasp. He barely ducked as the sharp steel sliced past his head. He jumped backwards agilely, but she followed even faster. There was a cloud of violent energy about her, and he could see white light specked with gold that glowed around her becoming more and more intense. There was something wrong, she was too fast, too strong. He realized he was breathing hard, even his vampire abilities are being strained to there limits. Cold metal bit into his flesh, white light seared the wound. He staggered in amazement, he was a vampire, he was immortal, nothing can hurt him, nothing! He stumbled, his eyes widening as they reflected something that he only felt once before. Fear. He saw the flash of the sword and waited for the killing blow, but it never came. There was a thump as the butt of Zech’s pistol connected with the back of her head. Ann only felt a sharp flash of pain as the world faded into darkness. Zechs bent quickly over his injured commander. Never had he seen his Master so unsettled. His eyes were wide and cold sweat dripped from his forehead. Blood stained his usually impeccably clean and neat clothing. "Are you all right sir?" He asked worriedly. Treize blinked a few times before regaining his solid mask of composure, "Yes, fine." He murmured his normally smooth voice grating slightly in his throat. Zechs nodded and stood up to give orders for his staring troops to return to base. Treize stared at the ground for a very long time, not noticing that rain that is coming down in sheets. "Zechs, do you remember a book written by a vampire called Memoirs in Time?" "Yes." He said slightly puzzled at the odd change topic. "In one passage, he described how Marcenis, one of the greatest vampires in his time met his death." Zech’s knitted his eyebrows together. "He wasn’t killed by one of our own. A man defeated him, a man that matched him in speed, strength, and magic… " His voice trailed off when he realized what Treize was saying. "No," he looked towards Ann’s unconscious body, "she can’t be." Treize’s eyes narrowed. "There is no mistake. She is a vampire slayer.