Title: Jewel Of The East

By Syx Maxwell and Tzigane 9/99

Fandom: Gundam Wing

Pairing: Treize/Wufei Duo/Heero Quatre/Triton

Prologue:

This… this is the source of power. Power to crack the heavens and bring the very gods to their knees. All he had to do was posses it. And to posses it he had to find the gems. Then… Then the world would be his.

LA The Present:

Quatre Winner sighed and stretched. Just three weeks until the exhibit opened. Three weeks to get the security in place and the gems ready. 'Allah, what was I thinking?'

He was very lucky. After all he the best help money couldn't buy helping him. His long time love Triton was a world class gemologist. Duo Maxwell, rogue of the Peacecraft clan, was unmatched when it came to security systems. Heero Yuy had a talent for designing computer programs that complemented his lover's skills admirably. He was also an unmatched bodyguard.

And Wufei Chang was the best choice for exhibit director. He understood gems and their history better than almost anyone did. The fact that the group of young men was close friends was an added plus.

The fact that none of them were yet twenty was enough to give Lloyds of London a coronary.

Each boy had a shady past. Quatre knew and accepted those facts. Duo was the bastard brother of Relena Peacecraft. The legitimate branch had shunned him for years until the heir Milliard, vanished in Europe, the victim of an IRA bombing. It was then that Senator Peacecraft decided to claim his youngest son.

Too little, too late Duo had lived hard and fast on the streets of LA. He wanted nothing to do with the snooty family and clung to his mother's clan name. He probably would still be on the streets if he hadn't picked Quatre's pocket one day. The two boys became fast friends after Quatre saw why he was stealing. He was supporting several younger children, protecting them for the nastier elements on the streets.

Quatre took them to a halfway house called Sanctuary. Duo in turn became his traveling companion and best friend.

It was a year later during a trip to Japan when they met Heero. Heero Yuy was the heir apparent to a large marital arts dojo. However he walked away from it after his father beat his mother to death. The boy said nothing about what happened. And the police had no leads or proof about what happened to the beautiful woman. Because Heero was underage, the police couldn't question him without his father present. It was well known that the man was violent, and beat the boy and his mother.

Quatre and Duo found Heero in a park, huddled in the rain. They were walking to their hotel when they heard a quiet groan. They ducked under the bridge and found the battered and shell-shocked teen staring dully at the stream. They got him to the hotel and cleaned him up. It was Duo that broke through that dark silence and gained Heero's trust.

The elder Yuy had a mysterious accident not long after. Heero closed the dojo, selling it to another sensei. Quatre and Duo promptly included him into their group.

Triton Bloom was the next addition. They met when he tracked his stolen lions to a resort the boys were staying at. The owner was importing lions for illegal hunts. It was barbaric, the animals were drugged and staked out so drunken businessmen could pump bullets into them.

The three boys played merry hell with the smugglers. Finally, they called in the authorities and arranged for the lions to be returned to the refuge that Triton lived on with his sister Cat.

Triton traveled with the boys on his way to various gymnastics events, and eventually moved in.

The last addition was the twins, Meiran and Wufei Chang. Little was known about the two. They were tiny when they first met the Arabic youth. Suffering from malnutrition, and abused by uncaring parents, the two fled their native China. It seemed that Meiran was sold to a rich man by their parents. In order to save his beloved sister, Wufei gave up everything, tracked the man down and freed the girl.

But not before serious damage was done. She didn't speak for the first six months. After that she was unnaturally quiet. It was Quatre's sister Iria, and Triton's sister Cat that brought the girl out of her shell.

Being rich had its advantages. Quatre was able to gain citizenship for both teens. Meiran and Wufei were both citizens of the Sedankan kingdom that Quatre's father ruled with a benevolent touch… and a large army.

Meiran was currently working for a philanthropist named Zechs Marquise. If that was his real name, no one knew it. He funded numerous charities, mostly those for unwed mothers and half way houses for orphans. He spoiled the girl dreadfully, but she needed it. Under his direction and following the example set by Cat and Iria, she became the den mother to the boys.

Her rule was absolute.

Quatre stared at the printouts. He agreed to show the fantastic collection only if he set up the security. Then he turned Heero and Duo loose. Wufei arranged for the display cases and the floor plan. Triton would arrive next week to clean and prepare the gems for the grand opening.

And every damn thief in the known world was out to steal them.

Well the coming weeks would tell if they were up to the challenge of protecting the Jewels of the East.

Across town, in the Museum District

Wufei Chang loved his job. A historian and scholar by nature, he was happiest rooting around in old dusty tomes, searching out obscure passages on various gems. He wanted to complete the comprehensive notes for each jewel before the weekend. Meiran and Zechs wanted him to go boating with them.

He had hesitated, his desire to spend time with his sister warring with his drive to do his best. Quatre took the decision out of his hands, saying if he showed his face before Sunday night, he was fired. It was the only way to make him take time off.

So he made his way to the library, where several imported manuscripts of ancient lore awaited him. The security was heavy, since the papers were national treasures of Sedankan. He passed through various checkpoints before sitting down to translate the runes that held the tale of the jewels.

He lost track of time as he always did when reading. Finally his watch chimed heralding the witching hour. He gathered his notes and carefully placed them in their binders. Tucking away the papers inside his pack he made his way to the door.

He really hadn't expected to bump into a black clad man wearing a ski mask. Now Wufei was a smart boy. He knew that you should never confront a criminal. However Wufei also had a deep love for the treasure in this vaulted building, and a great respect for the knowledge held in the texts. So when he saw the thief held several tomes in his hand, he reacted.

He let loose a loud yell and kicked the man in the chest. He fully planed on following up with some of the nastier tricks Heero and Duo taught him when he spotted three other thieves.

'Don't be a hero. Never fight if you can avoid it. Don't assume your opponent is unarmed. Run like hell.' Duo and Heero's teaching sounded in his mind.

Swiftly grabbing the books, he ran like the hounds of hell were nipping at his heels. He headed for the maze of corridors at the back of the building. He ducked into a side hall and leaned over panting. Straightening slowly he resisted the urge to peek around the corner. If they followed him, he would know soon enough.

He waited, ears straining. No noise except his soft breathing. He was safe. A hard set of arms wrapped around his chest and he squeaked. 'I'm screwed!' he thought.

"Shh." Came the toneless whisper. He froze, then heard it. The thieves were in the corridor!

"Now where did that little bastard go?"

"Damn we lost the books. The boss is gonna be pissed!"

"We'll just tell the boss that the kid took them out earlier. That way we won't die over this fuck up. Got your ass kicked by a girly looking boy."

"Shut the hell up Harry."

There was a loud thud and the sound of a scuffle.

"Idiot! Don't use our names when we're working! Gods you're a dumb ass! Come on. We'll search one more corridor, then leave."

The footsteps approached and Wufei shrank back against the tall figure behind him. Black clad arms held him secure as the melted back into the shadows.

"I wonder if a girly boy like that is interested in men. I bet he is. Didja get a load of those clothes he was wearing? Earring, those fancy silks, and long hair, I bet he's the bitch in the group. He's probably getting fucked by that Winner kid."

"You're just jealous now shut the hell up and look for the little bastard!"

Wufei felt his face heat up as the criminals discussed his orientation and how he might perform. He was shaking with rage, wanting to savage the men. That all but soundless whisper reached his ear once more.

"Shh. Quiet."

Silence fell but neither moved. Finally the man behind him eased his grip. Wufei let out a deep breath and rubbed his sore ribs.

"Sorry about that, I forget my strength sometimes."

Wufei turned to face his savior and bit back a pungent oath.

"You're another thief!"

"Please, nothing so mundane. However if you need to call me a name, Thirteen will do."

"Kami-sama."

"Not quite. And you are?"

Wufei responded without thought, "Chang Wufei."

"Ah yes, The fifth of the Dragon Clan and the director for the upcoming Jewel of the East exhibit."

Wufei pinned the black clad thief with a dark glare. "Don't even think about it!"

"Now now, we shall see little one. I must take my leave."

With that he advanced on the boy, griping his neck. Wufei made an indignant sound as the older man found a spot between the vertebrae and pressed gently. The world faded to black.

The thief known as Thirteen stared at the slumped figure of the boy. He bent down, scooping him into his arms. The Chinese youth weighed little. He carried the boy to the lounge and laid him on the couch. He knew that other thieves were gone. Now he needed to get out before the guards woke.

Grinning wickedly, he picked up a tome and took it with him. After all he couldn't let the effort be wasted.

The next morning

Wufei Chang was in a rare rage. That damn thief took one of his books! How would he explain his failure to Quatre? Hanging his head in shame, he went to speak to his friend

Quatre listened to the tale, then called Heero and Duo in.

"Upgrade the security in the vaults. Wufei could have been killed."

"But… But Quatre I lost one of the books! They are priceless!"

"You already had them translated. And more importantly, you're life means a bit more to me than some dusty old book. Now you said that the gang didn't catch you?"

"Hai."

Duo scratched his head, "Then who took the book Wufei?"

"Thirteen."

Heero blinked and Duo dropped his head to the desk. "Crap of all the thieves, why him? He can't be caught. He's like smoke on water… or a snake on ice, slick and smooth. Maybe we should cancel this showing."

"No, I gave my word."

"Quatre, be serious! Security is an illusion at best. And this guy snuck into the vaults to take Polaroid's of himself, wearing the crown jewels, then sent the pictures to the press. He did it to prove he could!"

"I have faith in you two. Now lets get some lunch ok?"

"Fine fine… but don't say I didn't warn ya."

*** *** *** *** *** *** ***

Several days passed and things remained quiet, until Sunday night.

Thirteen slipped within the loft. He was quiet and sure. In his hand was a gaily-wrapped package. He set it on the low table in the dinging room. His sharp eyes spotted a slight figure slumped over in the den. It was Wufei.

The youth must have fallen asleep while translating a large book of ancient lore. Thirteen smiled softly and lifted the boy into his arms. Moving with cat-like sureness, he eased through the piles of papers littering the home office. He nudged the bedroom door open with his hip.


There in the corner of the room was a low bed. Similar to a futon, it sat on a short dais. The coverlet was a rich shade of jade. Thirteen smiled at the opulence of it. He balanced Wufei on one knee while tugging back the bed covers.

He tucked the teen in and shut the door. He had just enough time left to leave his gift and return home.

Winner Inc

Duo looked up as Wufei slammed into the office. The other boy slapped down a prettily wrapped box on the desk. Duo opened it to find a lovely jeweled Celtic hair clasp inside.

"It's..."

"A nail in his coffin!"

Duo blinked, "Wha..."

"I found That," He spat gesturing to the box, "Hanging on my door knob... the inside doorknob. And I know I locked it! And a note telling me I need better locks! He's trying to drive me mad!"

"Who?"

"Who else? That damn thief!"

Duo began to laugh, then had to run as Wufei chased him promising painful retribution. All Duo said was, "Kinky!" Before hightailing it behind Heero.

*** *** *** *** *** *** ***

It was late that night when Wufei stalked home from the museum. Had been a long day and he was dog-tired. His mood was exceptionally foul. As he neared his apartment complex he caught sight of a figure dressed in black.

"I have a can of mace and I will use it."

"No fear little dragon, I have no wish to harm you."

Wufei stomped up to him. "I want that manuscript back damn it!"

"Sorry Dragon, but I need that book for a quest. Have no fear; I shall not damage it. I am after all, a gentleman."

Wufei poked one finger into the larger man's chest and growled, "Gentleman my ass! And what are you doing at my building? If you rob one person here I'll… I'll…"

Strong arms surrounded him and a soft voice whispered, "You'll what?"

He should have moved away, or used the mace, something. Instead, inexplicably, he melted into those strong arms. Soft lips traced his brow and ear. There was faint tug, a heated lick. Wufei bit back a groan.

"I will see you again dragon." He vanished into the shadows. Wufei reached up to smooth his hair back and realized that his earring was gone. Wufei growled, and if the thief know as 13 heard it, he would have run for the hills. If he wanted to calm Wufei he'd failed spectacularly.

Tuesday Morning

Quatre was filling out some forms when Wufei literally slammed into the office. The first thing they noticed was that his earring, a family heirloom, was missing for the first time in memory.

"The next time I see a black ski mask... I'm gonna kick it in!"

"..."

"That no good lousy thief stole my earring! The one good piece my clan had left! I'm going to get a dog. A mean one! Triton, can I borrow one of your lions? Or would eating that no good bastard give it food poisoning?"

Duo choked on his coffee, "How'd he steal it Wufei? You never take it out."

"That doesn't matter! He has no morals, no scruples, and not much longer to live; because I'm going to kill him!"

Duo watched Wufei's twin enter his office and hour later. Sunny funny Meiran with her flamboyant clothes had wild way of doing things. Today the tiny girl had her nails painted an emerald green to match her tunic. She was in the city for a few days before she left again for Europe with Zechs.

In her right ear, dangled the twin to the gem stolen from Wufei. It was the only legacy they had, and they guarded it fiercely. She traveled extensively, rarely in the city for more than a week at a time. But she loved the work, and Zechs took good care of her.

Of course no one knew that Zechs also worked for Interpol, and that Meiran was his backup. If they knew, Wufei would have throttled the older man.

*** *** *** *** *** *** ***

The two teens headed for the park where the others waited. It was the last time Meiran would be in LA until Zechs wrapped up his investigation.

Treize sat in the shadows of his vantagepoint to watch the young dragon interact with his 'family'. True they were a motley crew; an American street brat that had blood relation to the Peacecraft clan, a Japanese warrior, who was the last of his family, a gymnast who lived on a wildlife refuge, and a rich Arabic youth. The last members of the group entered the park. Sleek and delicate, a mirror images with black hair and eyes. Beautiful really, in an exotic way. 'Hmmm interesting.'

Thirteen eased closer to listen in.

"Fei-chan, where's your earring?"

It was then that the older man noted the twin had the second gem dangling from her ear. The boy went red in the face and said, "I... I left it at home."

Meiran frowned; Wufei had never lied to her before, yet she knew that he wasn't telling the truth. What was going on?

Duo bit his lips and looked everywhere but the girl.

Quatre cleared his throat, "Mei-chan, how long will you be gone?"

She paused in the act of sipping her tea, "About two weeks. Zechs-san wants to check out some information before we return. Do not worry, I wouldn't miss the opening night for anything."

'Good.' The older man thought, 'Inspector Blondie won't be here to annoy me.'

That Weekend

Wufei Chang was on a mission. He had to get that earring back before his sister returned. How could he face her knowing that the one legacy they had, one of the pair of gems given to them by their beloved grandmother, was lost? It was his fault, and he had to make it right.

Wufei crept through the abandoned building. Gods what was he doing? Tracking a world-renowned cat burglar? He needed his head examined! He followed the figure in black around and the corner and slammed right into a pair of hard arms.

"Why dragon, Fancy meeting you here."

'Oh damn...'

Wufei glared into the barely visible eyes behind the mask.

"I want my earring back you damned thief!"

"Now dragon, surely you do not expect a thief of my caliber to return something I procured..."

"Return it or I'll roast your burglar's carcass over the fires of hell."

"Interpol has yet to threaten me with such fineness... Perhaps there is something you wish to trade..."

Whatever else he planned to say was lost when a small but rock hard fist buried itself in his diaphragm.

"Hentai!"

Thirteen hit the ground gasping as the boy ran from the building.

Europe: Scotland Yard

Inspector Zechs Marquise sat at his desk thumbing through the information they had on the master thief known as Thirteen. The man was a pain in the ass! Zechs growled and pushed his blonde hair back. Throwing the file back into his desk, he got ready to leave. After all Meiran was waiting for him at the hotel, and he didn't want to keep his tigress waiting.

As he drove away from Scotland Yard, he sank into thoughts of the past. He's met the delicate girl by accident. She'd hired on to his company as an assistant manager. Though young, her references from Winner International were excellent. He watched her for several days before realizing something was wrong.

She attended the business party along with other high level management. Zechs often dealt with foreign businessmen, and laid down very strict rules. Female employees were there to work, not for the enjoyment of his guests.

However one Chinese gentleman thought otherwise and frightened her badly. There was more to it than what she told him. He knew that right away. The man ignored the other women, yet treated Meiran like she was his property.

Zechs didn't know what the man said to her in muted Mandarin, but it scared her half to death.

At 2am that night, she showed up at his door. She was still wearing the jade colored dress and high heels. He'd let her in, then escorted her to his den. As he followed her, he noted her limp for the first time. She was typically so elegant and graceful that he'd never noticed it before.

However, judging by the exhaustion lining her face, she was too tired to control it. He helped her to sit down on the couch, realizing that she hurt too badly to sit normally. With the weight off her leg, she relaxed minutely.

For long moments they stared at each other, then he asked, "What's going on Meiran?"

Her fingers twisted in her lap and she said, "I can't stay at my apartment, He'll find me."

"Who will?"

"Zhang Yatzen"

Zechs blinked. "Why would he try to find where you live?"

"Because he owns me!"

"What!?!"

The tale came out in bits and pieces. Her parents sold her to the sadist. How he tortured her, how she damaged her right leg and hip trying to escape him. How he denied her a doctor as punishment. Her voice broke as she told of beatings, of knowing he could come at anytime to hurt her. How he broke her.

Her voice faltered as she went on, telling of her one escape, of living quietly, but he found her, sneaking into her room in the night and raping her savagely. And how finally her brother came and saved her. Then Winner, Maxwell, and Yu protected her. How they smuggled her out of the country and created a new life for her.

A life that was over now.

Zechs stood, and she flinched back a bit. "How long have you been walking?"

"I… I don't know. I went home, but he was waiting for me…"

"Shh, everything will be fine. Slavery is illegal in America and I won't have one of my people hunted. Now I want you to sit here for a minute. I'm going to call a friend of mine at the embassy. Then you'll need to call your brother. You'll stay with me here until Zhang is gone."

She nodded wearily. After placing the calls, he coaxed her into the whirlpool. That was when he saw the scars. The fall had been horrific, to do that much damage. She soaked for over an hour, the water just as hot as she could stand, and laced with chamomile blossoms. He fed her a muscle relaxant. That was followed by a massage that eased the rest of the pain.

She slept around the clock. Waking the next afternoon, they decided she would remain with him until Zhang was gone.

*** *** *** *** *** *** ***

She was a quiet girl, cautious in a way only wounded things are. She slept poorly, often waking violently. Zechs got into the habit of slipping into her room to hold her at night. He encouraged her to talk about her past, but she was reticent.

The final bits of horror came out one bright morning a week into her stay. She walked in, clad in a kimono, her eyes ringed with dark circles. Sitting at the table, he passed her a steaming mug of tea.

He said nothing, merely watched her with old eyes. It was then that the scars on her soul broke open.

"He hurt me… gods why did he hurt me?"

She dropped her face into her hands. She sobbed brokenly as she never had. There had never been time to mourn her lost innocence, never been time to sob and grieve. Now, safe in the care of this strong man, she let go. She hadn't wanted to burden her brother with what happened. The boy was haunted by what he saw as his failure to protect her.

Warm arms enfolded her, settling her on his lap. He tilted his head over her, veiling her in a curtain of platinum. Feeling sheltered from the world, she began to beat at his chest with her little hands.

"Why? Why did he do it? How could he… What did I do to make my parents hate me so?"

Tears stung his eyes and Zechs crooned sounds of comfort to her. His hands made steady sweeps up and down her back. She'd been hurt in the most vicious way a woman could be hurt. He rocked her slowly, whispering promises of protection.

Her sobs tapered off into hiccoughs. Hiccoughs that faded into shuddering breathes. Those breaths eased into the soft rhythm of true sleep. He got up slowly and moved to the couch. One elegant hand reached out to snag the blanket draped over the back of the couch. Tucking it around her legs, he leaned back. He closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep.

It was a soft dream like the dreams she'd had before the horror. A prince, complete with white charger, was holding her, whispering words of love in her ear. Soft black eyes opened slowly and gazed at the vision of gold standing between her and the world.

She made a sleepy sound and tucked her face into his neck.

"Meiran?"

"I… You're the first man I've trusted since it happened."

"The others…"

"They are safe… The each have loves of they're own. I am a sister to them. They do not see me as a woman."

"Shh I understand, but are you sure?"

"Please."

He lifted her slowly, turning her into his arms so that she straddled his lap. He cupped her face in his large hands and pressed soft kisses to her lips. He trailed a finger down the center of her chest, avoiding her breasts. The move was strangely erotic.

Unsure of what to do she mimicked his actions. He smiled and nuzzled her neck. "Do whatever you wish Mei-chan. There are no rules. What passes between us is for us to enjoy. If I do something that upsets you or makes you uncomfortable, tell me. I will stop. Okay?"

"Hai." Then she plunged her hands into that heavy mane of flaxen silk. Her fingers stroked over his skull as she played with the strands of hair. She'd wanted to do this since the day she'd laid eyes on him.

Zechs groaned deep in his chest. Gods he loved how she played with his hair. When he went to the salon to have it trimmed, he always fell asleep as the women there trimmed and brushed his hair. Needless to say, he was quite the favorite customer.

He shrugged out of his shirt and placed his arms on the back of the couch. She made a questioning sound and he smiled again.

"As much or as little as you wish. You lead this dance."

Her eyes softened as she pressed hot little kisses over his chest. He was so warm and strong. He purred as she nibbled along his collarbone. She took his hand and placed it on her hip.

"Please Zechs?"

He caressed that silky flesh, finding the scars the told a tale of suffering no one should have to bear. He kissed his way down her throat as his hands slipped under her loose robe and petal pants. Her chemise grew damp as he suckled her through the satin.

He unbuttoned the front of the garment, his fingers leaving a trail of fire wherever they touched. She shivered and ground her mouth to his. He coaxed her into the dance, leading her when she faltered, following when she led. She was beautiful in her newly found passion.

She moaned as he tenderly drew her beneath his larger form. Long soft wings of gold-white hair shut out the world. She twined her fingers in the mass and drew him down for a kiss.

Zechs was well aware of his size, and the last thing he wanted was to scare or hurt her. He teased her with careful fingertips before reaching for a condom that his little brother had laughingly tucked into his wallet. When he was incased in the thin sheath he turned back to her.

She looked at him curiously. Her soft little hands found his burning length and traced a quick pattern over sensitive skin. Zechs bit back a growl of pleasure. She smiled and lifted her legs to his hips.

He knew what the submissive position cost her. A woman was utterly vulnerable to her lover this way. He took her mouth in a soothing kiss and stroked into her.

She gasped a bit and her inner muscles tightened. His lips soothed her eyelids as he murmured, "Like this Darling."

Then he eased her legs from his hips laying them together beneath him. He gripped her hips, remaining deep inside her hot channel.

"It will be easier for you like this." Then he delved deep. In this position he was able to move deep without the stinging discomfort. Her breathing accelerated. He licked her throat, his teeth closing on the nerve cluster near her jugular.

He rotated his hips and she whimpered, her nails lightly scratching his back. He loved the feel of her short nails scoring his flesh. He drew back a bit, leaning down to catch her earlobe. Giving it a soft tug, he surged inside.

"Zechs!"

He smiled wickedly, playing her responses carefully. He growled low in his chest and waited for the tremors shaking her to increase before grinding into her wet delta. The move forced both over the edge to oblivion.

Meiran sat up slowly a time later. Pressing her hand to her face she said, "Oh my."

Zechs roared with laughter. Inside her mind she felt Wufei's sleepy query. Her face caught fire when his thoughts reached her, 'He either makes an honest woman out of you or I'll run him through.'

'Oh go back to bed brother!'

There was a sleepy mental chuckle and her brother returned to dreams.

*** *** *** *** *** *** ***

She never left. He'd fallen had and fast for the delicate flower with a spine of steel. These days she was his personal assistant, helping him with his other work.

He walked into the suite to see Meiran hang up the phone frowning.

"What is it little one?"

"Quatre said Wufei was out with Heero and Duo at a club. Wufei never goes clubbing…"

American Offices of Quatre Winner

Duo gasped, "You Lied to Meiran?"

Quatre flushed, "I didn't lie... I fibbed."

Heero groaned, "We're dead."

"What was I supposed to say, 'Sorry Mei-chan, but Wufei is out hunting a cat burglar?' She's kill us!"

Wufei slipped into the office and groaned as his friends pinned him with hard glares. Quatre thrust the phone at him.

"Call Mei-chan, tell her you just got back from Club 21 with Heero and Duo."

Wufei caught the implication and sighed. So much for keeping this quest of his quiet.

Saturday night One week later

Wufei heard a slight noise. So soft that most people wouldn't wake from sleep. He pushed his covers back slowly and called out, "I have a .357 and I know how to use it."

A soft voice answered him, "That does not surprise me dragon."

"What do you want?"

"Would you believe I was in the neighborhood?"

"What were you going to steal?"

"You wound me dragon..."

"I know I'm tempted too..."

"I wanted to warn you."

"About what?"

"The gems in your earrings? Another is after them. Be careful dragon. There are worse creatures than myself walking the night."

"Why do I doubt that?"

"Do you think me a threat Dragon?"

"I'm not afraid of you!"

"I think you are."

Thirteen stepped forward with sensual intent. He drew the stunned youth into his arms. Wufei gave a murmur of protest before succumbing to the heated embrace. He wore only boxers since the night was warm. He was so lost in the promise of the thief's kiss that he never noticed the older man grabbing a tie from the dresser top.

Wufei was stunned when he felt his wrists secured together.

"Nani? Untie me!"

"Not yet dragon. Have no fear, I do not inflict pain, I merely wish to play."

Wufei felt Thirteen tie the bonds to the plant hook in the ceiling. 'Why didn't I re-hang that damn pot?' Shrouded in darkness, his senses peeled to the max, he waited for what would come.

The older man smiled at the picture the boy made. He had better than average night vision, so the soft moonbeams gave him a good view of the boy. A wicked smile shaped his lips. Red silk boxers… very nice.

He stripped off his clothes, wanting to be naked for this. He wanted to feel that silky flesh against his rangy body. He wanted to feel every ultra-fine tremor that rippled over that caramel skin.

Wufei started when he felt a hot chest press to his back. He made a startled sound, only to hear a soft, "Shh." Sound in his ear. He struggled briefly, but there was no way out. Fear edged into his voice as he whispered, "Please… don't hurt me."

Thirteen felt his eyes go wide at this. Had the boy never indulged in love play? Well he would show the dragon prince he had nothing to fear. He stroked the boy's satiny chest, finding fear-puckered nipples. He rested his chin on Wufei's shoulder and whispered, "I will not harm you." Then he licked that spot behind Wufei's ear.

Wufei let the fine tremors shake his body. What did he know about this man? Nothing! He was a thief; a man who made his own rules and thumbed his nose at the laws. What if…

Thirteen felt the boy grow tense and smoothed his hands over the teen's hips. He licked and sucked at the boy's throat, growling softly. Wufei felt a strange heat begin low in his belly. Long fingers traced the shadowed cleft of his buttocks.

Wufei gave a choked cry as fear and passion warred inside him. Thirteen smiled and licked a path down the boy's back. Wufei twisted in his binds, trying to escape that sensual exploration. Thirteen pressed his mouth to the small of his back, sucking as his hand snaked forward to stroke and tug at the hardening flesh.

Wufei tipped his head back, his long black hair falling down his back. It felt so good…

That burning hot mouth left his back to find the back of his knee. Wufei whimpered and moaned at the assault. There was a sexy little nip, then the touch moved on. One hand remained to stroke and teased his shaft while he other smoothed over his calf.

Thirteen slipped around to nuzzle the panting boy's belly. Wufei felt tears well in his eyes and cried, "Stop it! This is not my choice!"

The older man flinched a bit, but was undeterred. He touched the damp tip of Wufei's erection and murmured, "This is for me, is it not?"

"Bastard! You caused this! You… you petty thief!"

Thirteen's eyes narrowed and Wufei quailed a bit. He tugged backwards, fear shooting through him.

"No…"

Thirteen leaned forward and took that damp flesh into his mouth. Then he purred.

Wufei's knee's buckled and he cried out in disbelief. Thirteen kept up the sensual torment, his hand finding the bottle of massage oil Wufei kept on the nightstand for his sister. Keeping the hot suction up, he coated one long finger and thrust it inside the boy.

Wufei screamed and Thirteen thanked the gods the loft was soundproof. The boy was in the hottest throws of passion he could have dreamed of. Long-boned digits brushed the magic spot inside his cavity. First one, then two and finally three fingers worked the oil deep within his body.

He hung from his bonds, all but insensible, when his captor stood. The tall figure lifted his chin with one finger and kissed him. Wufei froze tasting his own seed. He flinched back a bit, and was stunned to feel himself grow hard once more.

There was movement behind him, and a hard thigh wedged between his legs. He made a choked sound of fear. A hard arm circled his waist. He waited, panting and half-afraid.

The wet tip of the other man's rod nudged the loosened opening of his nether regions. He almost froze, when those talented fingers began to play with his own manhood.

Thirteen smiled against the boy's neck and slid inside as far as he could go.

Wufei seized up and cried out harshly. His body shook with a strange mix of fear and desire. It was a heady cocktail in his blood. The full throbbing impact shook the breath from his chest.

Thirteen nipped his shoulder, a sharp sexy nip designed to punish and adore. Then he stroked inside the boy. They rocked back and forth, the youth supported by his bonds and the hard arms holding his hips. 13 had his feet planted wide on the floor, bracing his self for each thrust.

Soon the boy was panting and sobbing, pleading for relief. He licked at that spot behind Wufei's ear just as his erection nudge the spongy prostate.

"No Please No!"

Wufei felt the climax rip through his body like a hurricane. Darkness took him.

The man called Thirteen shook his sweat damp hair back from his face. The boy was amazing! He matched the older man move for move and brought a completion he'd never known.

He untied the boy and carried him back to bed. Thirteen made him self comfortable on the large soft mattress, cradling the boy to his chest. He felt his new lover stiffen, then felt the hot wash of shamed tears soak his chest.

"What is wrong?'

"What's wrong? I just gave my virginity to a man and I don't even know his name or what he looks like!"

Thirteen winced. When would he learn? He cupped the boy's face and kissed him gently, soothing the stuttering sobs.

Then he reached over and turned up the lamp. Wufei stare at the most stunning man he'd ever seen in his life. Ginger hair, worn just long enough to fit into a short tail, heated cornflower blue eyes, and patrician features.

"My name is Treize."

Wufei laid back totally confused. Why would a known jewel thief let someone see his face? Treize tucked the boy close and rubbed his back. He murmured, "I think you may break my heart little one."

Wufei drifted off to sleep pondering that remark. When he felt the boy become totally slack, Treize tucked him in and dressed.

The curtain rustled then he was gone.

Somewhere in LA

The beast stirred. Soon… soon both would be in his grasp. Then the power would be his!

LAX Airport

Meiran Chang stepped onto the concourse and groaned. She hated jetlag. She spotted a sign that read: CHANG, M. She moved towards her ride. She never saw the rag soaked in chloroform.

Winner Inc

Wufei Chang stepped off the curb as the pedestrian light turned green. He hurried across the lanes of traffic. If he was fast, he could get home and get changed in 45 minutes. Then he would stalk Treize.

He would get his earring back. And he wanted to know why the man had left. He wanted to talk to the others. He had no idea what was considered normal for a relationship. But how to get his answers without being subjected to Duo's mortifying questions and jibes?

He walked past the alley without a glance. He never saw the black jack that struck his skull.

Zechs apartment

Zechs opened the door and called out, "Mei-chan?"

The voice that answered him did not make him happy.

"Afraid not old friend. And if we're not fast, both the girl and her brother will be quiet dead."

"What the hell are you doing here Treize?"

"Trying to save the lives of two very special people. Now if you want the girl to die, that's your business. But I won't stand by and watch her brother perish."

"Who has them?"

"A creature named Zhang."

"Oh Gods."

Zhang's Temple, China Town

Wufei woke slowly, his head throbbing. He heard a soft moan and looked to his left. There, bound to a duplicate altar was his twin.

"Wufei? Where are we?"

Before he could answer, a familiar voice hissed from the shadows. "You are in my lair, as you were meant to be."

The color drained from Meiran's face. There stood the figure of her darkest nightmares, the man who broke her body, Zhang Yatzen. She bit back a whimper.

Wufei swore and tugged at his bonds. His wrists grew raw and he yelled, "Stay away from my sister you monster! We have powerful friends!"

He snorted at that. "Really? You think a thief and an Interpol agent are going to stop me? Once I have both gems, I can complete the ceremony. Then I shall have enough power to bring the gods themselves to their knees!"

He reached down and ripped the gem from Meiran's ear. She bit back a scream, knowing he loved to hurt her. But when he reach Wufei, he saw something that enraged him. The earring, along with the dragon's eye gem, was gone.

"Where is it you little bastard? Where is the earring?!?" His fist flashed down, catching Wufei on his cheekbone. The blow made his ears ring. He moaned weakly and heard Meiran curse savagely. Then came that silky voice that graced his dreams.

"Really Zhang, you should learn to control your temper. The gem is right here."

A black clad figure stood in the doorway. He was unarmed, his pose relaxed.

"Release the twins and I shall give it to you."

Zhang laughed and leveled his gun at the thief. "The infamous Thirteen, willing to give up gems for a couple of lowborn spawn such as this? I shall take the gem… and you lives!"

The harsh report of a gun made Wufei cringe. But 13 did not fall. Instead blood bloomed on Zhang's chest. He crumpled to the ground. Standing next to Treize was Zechs, smoking pistol in hand.

The two men said nothing, just gathered their beloved and walked to the door. Treize held up a lighter and casually tossed it into a pie of rags. They drove into the night as the building burned to ash, Zhang with it.

The two men stood inside the shadows of Wufei's loft.

"Yes it is agreed?"

"No surveillance on either one. The twins will not be involved."

"Agreed"

Zechs Marquise left, Meiran cradled in his arms. Treize Khushrenada walked to the bedroom. Laying down he drew the shivering boy into his arms. The terror was over. And the game was on.

end