Beginning of the end
Sep. 13th, 2008 08:24 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
faded_laceChapter 25
Claimer: Ours...*sniff* TT____TT;;
Rating: R
Warnings: Excessive violence, character death, BL, shota, language
Beta:![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
wearenotaskitz is excited for the shota. XD;;
Donavan was back in his palace guard uniform, and this time he was armed to the hilt. After losing his temper with Algernon, he’d returned home to change clothes, rebandage his arm, and figure out the best course of action. He would be breaking into the palace, fighting his way through, killing anyone who obstructed his path down to the dungeons, where he was assuming Faustino was being held, and then he would fight his way back out and escape with Faustino. Donavan hadn’t slept—couldn’t possibly have slept, not with the thought of Faustino, alone and frightened in prison—and was running on pure rage and desperation. He hated letting his emotions take such a hold over him, but Faustino’s life was at stake, and he couldn’t control his feelings enough to remain calm.
The people on the street that led to the palace all looked at him nervously, and most moved out of his way, but a few tried to question him about the previous day’s events. The sun had only just risen, but word had already spread that the Queen was dead and that the assassin had been a young Hispanian. Donavan had a gun in his hand, and with a single word and a flash of his weapon, everyone moved out of his way. He didn’t have time to play a role now—Faustino’s condition was far too uncertain—and Donavan didn’t really care if he was discovered. He was willing to do whatever it took to get to Faustino as fast as he could, and he wouldn’t let anyone stand in his way.
Eliana hurried through the streets, her hands clenched in fists with her determination, but the original flood of emotion had passed slightly, and now she was beginning to worry. How, exactly, could she save Faustino? There was no way she could get into the palace, and even if she could, she could never get past guards, or break him out of prison. Still, she knew she had to because she couldn't let him die, she couldn't lose another loved one to the queen.
As she rushed her way through the crowd, trying to figure out what she was going to do, she caught a glimpse of a uniform-- a palace guard. Spurred on, she hurried over to him, not sure what she was planning to do but knowing she had to do something. She could ask him something, somehow gain his trust... maybe... she wasn't sure, but she grabbed him by the arm just the same, opening her mouth to ask before her eyes widened with realization as she saw his face. "Y-you--?!" she asked in shock, staring into the eyes of none other than Donavan D'Aubigne. "What--?! What's become of Faustino?!"
Donavan’s mouth fell open for a second before he regained himself and yanked his arm from her grasp. He didn’t know what to say, how he could answer the question? Faustino’s mother had been the very last person he’d expected to see at a time like this, and possibly the worst person he could have run into.
It was his fault Faustino was in the position he was, and while Donavan didn’t regret teaching him all that he now knew, it was difficult for him to face Faustino’s mother and lie to her about what had happened. He’d made a mistake, and she deserved to know what had become of her child. After all, he knew what she must be going through, because he was certain that whatever anxiety she was experiencing, his was ten times more excruciating. “They have him.” Donavan said plainly.
Eliana's stomach clenched as her fears were confirmed, and as tears sprang to her eyes, she looked away for a moment. What was there to do now? There was no way in reality that she could save him... but with the help of a criminal... maybe there was a way? Looking back up to D'Aubigne and wiping at her tears, she grasped his arm again. "Please! You have to help me save him, you have to help me get him out!" She swallowed, looking down and thinking before looking into his eyes plaintively again. "Please, I know he must not mean much to you, but he's everything to me, he's my son! You have to help me get him out... I know you can do it, please... Otherwise, they'll... they'll kill him! Please, help me!"
Even at a time like this, Donavan couldn’t help but smirk at her plea. She had no idea. There was no way she could possible understand how much Faustino meant to him. “Look,” Donavan replied, once again pulling out of her grasp as he looked around to make sure no one was listening. “I will save him. And I don’t think that there’s anything you can do to help me. In fact, if you get in my way, I’m not going to give you a warning—you’ll get exactly the same treatment as any other obstacle.” Donavan set his jaw and narrowed his eyes, thinking about the time he’d wasted just in speaking to Esparanza. “I’m going to save Faustino, but I’m not doing it for you. He means everything to me.” Donavan didn’t know what sort of reaction to expect, and frankly, he didn’t care what she did. He turned on his heel and started walking. She could do as she pleased.
Eliana's heart leapt with hope when D'Aubgine announced that he would indeed save Faustino, but she was taken aback yet again at his next comment. He cared for Faustino...? How could that even be—after all he'd done to him? But yet, he sounded determined, and she couldn't understand any other reason for him to want so badly to go in for Faustino besides real love. Perhaps it was possible... perhaps, in his criminal way, he really did love Faustino. If he really cared enough to want to risk everything for her son, maybe he wasn't such a terrible person. Maybe...
But there wasn't time for those thoughts now. They had to hurry to save Faustino now, and she could worry about D'Aubigne and his dubious relationship with her son later. Hurrying after him, she replied, trying to sound just as certain, "I'll do whatever I can to save Faustino—don't underestimate me. I'm coming with you."
With Esparanza walking just at his heels, Donavan had to reevaluate his plan of blending in with the other palace guards. On their way through the grounds, Donavan had been forced to grab her by the arm, explaining to a guard that they’d come across accidently that he had arrested the Hispanian woman for loitering around the palace grounds, and that she was suspected of sympathizing with the young Hispanian prisoner.
The guard bought his story, and Esparanza had put up a passable act; either way, it had been enough to get away from the guard and motivation to cautiously avoid the others on patrol. After the attack, the security was quite a bit stricter, and as they came upon the entrance that Faustino had used to get inside only the day before—a servant’s passage that was supposed to be unguarded—Donavan realized that the rescue would not be as easy as he had hoped.
Gesturing for Esparanza to stay put, he drew his dagger and moved swiftly and quietly until he was just behind one of the two guards watching the obscure entrance. Lunging forward, Donavan sunk the blade deep inside the guard’s back, jerking it roughly upwards to ensure a fast death. In a quick and fluid motion, he yanked the blade from the body and sprang onto the second guard, stabbing him in the throat before he could even shout in surprise. Donavan flicked the blood from the knife and knelt in front of the door to coax the lock open with the same dagger.
Eliana swallowed and pressed a hand over her mouth to keep herself quiet at the display of brutality before her, but, she had to remind herself, he was doing it for Faustino. Standing carefully aside, she waited for D'Aubigne to finish his violence and then to open the door, following close behind him. It was strange, how she had gone from being filled with terror and hatred towards him, and now was relying on him for everything. But now wasn't the time for those thoughts, she reminded herself again, now she had to stay on her guard and try her hardest to do something useful to save her son.
Inside, Donavan lead the way through the expanse of servant’s quarters and through the kitchen; the stairwell that led down to the underground floor and dungeons was in the main part of the castle, but until they reached it, Donavan intended to take advantage of the network of servant’s corridors that were likely to be relatively unguarded.
The few servants they passed ignored their presence; all of them were too afraid for their own lives to act against the intruders. Donavan had a pistol cocked and ready however, just in case one of them made a move. They encountered no problems, and made it through the kitchen and out into a tight service hallway where a single guard was stationed, and Donavan silenced him instantly with his dagger once again. He was hesitant to use his pistol until it was absolutely necessary, wary of the noise and commotion it was likely to cause.
By the time the service hallway had ended, Donavan had already picked off seven guards. They were few and far in between, but the cramped, low-ceilinged passageway had come to an end, and he knew they would not be so lucky in the main part of the castle.
Slowly, Donavan opened the door and peered out, confirming the room was clear before allowing Esparanza to move out into a small parlor at the back of the castle. Thus far, she had not caused any troubles, but Donavan wouldn’t hesitate to leave her behind if she couldn’t keep up with him as they worked their way through the palace.
“Stick close to me,” Donavan commanded under his breath as he reached forward to slowly open the door that lead out into a hall. They were on the last leg of their mission, but its difficulty was second only to the actual escape with Faustino. At the end of the hall was the base of one of the castle towers in which the main set of stairs leading down to the dungeons was located. The stairs were almost guaranteed to be under heavy guard, but Donavan was confident he could fight his way through.
Eliana nodded, doing her best to stay at D'Aubigne's heels. Her heart was pounding so hard, she was sure D'Aubigne could hear it, and she was afraid it might even give them away, though she knew it was stupid. She just had to be careful, and to do what he said... but still, she had never been in such a frightening situation, and so close to death. But no matter what, it was worth it for Faustino. She would do anything for Faustino, and so she took a deep breath and followed D'Aubigne, putting all her faith in him.
It wasn’t until Donavan had led the way out of the room and taken the first few steps that he was able to see the dozen guards lining the hall. While the heavy guard would make it extremely difficult to get to Faustino, there was an upside. Obviously, the palace officials had some sort of idea of how dangerous Faustino was, and were taking special precautions to make sure he stayed locked up, and this of course meant that he was still alive. Donavan breathed a sigh of relief and glanced quickly at Esparanza. Things were about to get extremely dangerous, and he was almost positive that she wouldn’t make it through alive. Looking at her now…he could see her resemblance to Faustino, and a mild pang of guilt swept through him. What would he say to Faustino if she died? Donavan personally had no vested interest in her whatsoever. In fact, he was almost jealous of the affection she would likely get from Faustino if they were reunited. He knew, though, that her death would devastate Faustino, and that Donavan couldn’t allow.
His mind set, Donavan turned back the guards and took aim. He would have to move as quickly as possible to off as many as he could before they counter attacked. Never before had he taken on so many men by himself, but Donavan knew that in his desperation to save Faustino, he could do anything.
Donavan inhaled sharply as he pulled the trigger, throwing himself against the wall for the minimal cover it offered and knocking Esparanza to the floor to keep her from being shot at. The guards snapped instantly to attention and all drew their weapons, but Donavan had already taken aim and fired on the second guard, killing him before he was able to complete his attack. Darting forward, Donavan fired again, taking down another as bullets ripped through the air all around him.
Donavan’s injured left arm stung as he unsheathed his dagger and plunged it into the chest of the first guard he encountered at point blank range, killing him before the guard could even react. Using the body as a shield, Donavan continued to charge forward, and took down two more guards.
Out of rounds, Donavan discarded the pistol and drew another, cocking it and taking aim as the sound of gunshots rang in his ears and the body he held trembled in his grasp as the bullets tore into the dead flesh. As Donavan fired once again on another opponent, he felt a sharp pain in his shoulder and looked down to confirm that a bullet had gone straight through the body and lodged itself just below his clavicle. Gasping, Donavan discarded the human shield and made a dash for a stone pillar, diving behind it to evade the storm of bullets speeding towards him.
The heavy gunfire had caught the attention of several other guards who had no doubt initially been positioned in the surrounding corridors and inside the dungeon itself, and Donavan’s chances of victory were becoming slimmer by the second. He was, no doubt, practically surrounded now, but his only chance would be to continue in the same vein he’d started and keep moving forward until he could get to the dungeon and get to Faustino.
Eliana was barely able to believe what was going on around her; never before had she been in such a terrifying, dangerous situation, but she knew that this was what she had to do for her son. She did her best to stay out of the way and let D'Aubigne do what he had to do, but soon, it became apparent that he was overwhelmed. Despite her previous hated of the criminal, now, she knew, he was her only hope, and she couldn't bear the thought of something happening to him, not when they were so close to saving Faustino... She had to do something, but what?
She was distracted from the thought, however, at the sound of more footsteps, and she turned to see another swarm of guards appearing from behind D'Aubgine. They were all drawing their weapons and charging, and Eliana knew she couldn't let them hurt D'Aubgine... for Faustino. She alone couldn't save him... but D'Aubgine could. With that one thought in mind, she took a deep breath and launched herself, full speed, between D'Aubgine and the guns of the guards just as they were firing, and, to her surprise, she wasn't afraid. For her son, she could do anything.
For a moment, it seemed as if time slowed, and she could almost see the shots midair as they flew towards her until they impacted, and then there was a tearing pain in her chest and she was falling to the ground, and blood was everywhere. But when she looked up, she could see D'Aubgine was still standing, and that was what mattered. Smiling to herself, she let her head fall limp against the ground... it hurt less that way. She couldn't tell how many times she had been shot... three... four... did it matter? D'Aubgine could save Faustino now... he would take care of her boy... and that was what mattered.
Donavan spun around quickly at the sound of the shots going off behind him and cursed loudly when he spotted Esparanza’s bloodied body on the floor. He didn’t have time, however, to do anything about her. She’d taken the bullets for him so that he could finish of the guards who’d fired before they could shoot again, and that was just what he did. Ignoring the pain in his left arm and shoulder, Donavan drew a second weapon and fired both into the oncoming group of guards, running as fast as he could across the hall in an effort to avoid their second volley of bullets. He took down five and discarded his now empty pistol, drawing a knife and hurling it into an oncoming guard’s head as he finished off the last one with the pistol in his left hand.
Spinning back around, Donavan transferred his pistol to his right hand and fired three shots in quick succession, leaving only one guard left barring the way to Faustino. Donavan dropped his now empty gun and drew his last dagger, dashing forward at top speed, narrowly avoiding another bullet, and jamming the knife up through the man’s chin with satisfaction.
As the last adversary slumped to the floor, Donavan took a deep breath and replaced the still bloody weapon in its sheath, making his way over the bodies back to where he’d dropped his last weapon, back where Esparanza had fallen. Kneeling, he picked up the gun and began reloading it as he looked over the woman carefully. She’d taken five bullets. If she was still alive, it was only barely, and it wouldn’t be for much longer. Faustino didn’t need to know what happened. For all he knew, his mother hadn’t even heard about what he’d done, and that was the way Donavan would keep it. “I’ll take care of him,” Donavan said sincerely as he got to his feet. Donavan knew she only took the bullets because she knew that only he would be able to get to Faustino, and he knew that she probably hated him, but he felt sorry for her, and wanted to assure her that her son would be all right, that her sacrifice wouldn’t be in vain.
The world was washy and hazy around Eliana, but she could make out D'Aubgine's face, and she smiled softly. The pain had dulled somehow, had lost its edge, and her vision was swimming and black around the edges, but she heard D'Aubigne's words as clearly as anything, and it was all she needed to hear. So long as her son was taken care of... so long as D'Aubgine would love him and look after him, even if it wasn't ideal... if Faustino was all right, she could die happy. "Th--thank you..." she wheezed, finding it harder than she anticipated to breathe, her smile not fading as she let her eyes fall shut. Everything would be okay, so long as Faustino was cared for... She had put her trust in D'Aubigne, and she would believe in him now... because everything would be all right, and she could relax now, and let the pain fade away knowing Faustino would be all right...
Donavan was panting by the time he reached the bottom of the winding staircase down to the dungeon and was yet again nearly out of ammunition. A guard had nearly taken him by surprise in the stairwell, and he’d wasted an extra bullet in his hurry to take the man out. Now, as he reached the dungeon, he had just one extra pistol for Faustino and four more spare rounds of ammunition. Hopefully it would be enough to get them both back out.
Before him stretched a cramped, dark, and winding hall lined in heavy wooden doors that undoubtedly lead into countless dank cells. Somewhere, Faustino was locked up, alone and scared, but finally, he was within reach. It wouldn’t be much longer until Faustino would be back with him, and that was all the motivation Donavan needed to forget his injuries and take off once again at a run. “Faustino!” Donavan called loudly, hoping he would be heard and Faustino would find away to let him know which cell his was in.
Then, from the gloom ahead of him, two guards appeared running at full speed towards him, brandishing swords. Donavan fired his last bullet, taking out one, and drew his sword, slicing madly at his opponent and knocking his weapon out of the way so that he could sink his blade into the man’s chest. Donavan was certain that the two had been guarding Faustino’s cell, and called out again as he yanked the sword from the body, running forward once more and reloading his weapon as he ran. “Faustino!” he called out loudly, a bit of emotion creeping into his voice as he paused, desperate for a reply.
Faustino had been in the dark for so long now, he had lost track of time, lost track of everything. With his arms in shackles welded to the wall above his head and his ankles chained together, too, he hung limply in his bindings, too tired to cry anymore. He knew he had failed, he had failed Donavan and everyone, and even after Donavan had risked his life to save him, Faustino had still failed. And then he had woken up in this frightening place, and there had been talk of trials and executions, and he couldn't be a grown up anymore. He was frightened, terrified, and completely defeated, everything had crumbled around him, and now he had nothing. He had cried and cried and cried until he couldn't cry anymore, and then he had fallen limp, helpless and weak. There was nothing he could do, he was a failure, and now he was going to die, all alone, without ever seeing Donavan again.
But then he had heard something, and he thought he was going crazy, but he looked up, hopeful, despite himself. There was a gunshot, and a scuffle, and then another call, and then Faustino was in tears again. "D-Donavan--?" he cried out weakly, frightened, but yet hopeful, "Donavan... Donavan?!" His calls grew more shrill and hysterical as he could make out a figure--Donavan's figure-- in the shadows, and his tears came harder. "Donavan!"
“Faustino!” Donavan cried back, relief washing over him, practically threatening to knock him off his feet. He shot the heavy padlock that held the door in place twice before it shattered, then threw the door open and rushed to Faustino’s side, falling to the floor next to him and wrapping his arms around him, shaking with emotion. “I was so worried!” Donavan gasped, pulling back to look over Faustino hurriedly. “Are you all right? I’m sorry I couldn’t get to you sooner! I’m so sorry I let this happen to you!” He squeezed Faustino once again and tried to get a hold of himself. They really didn’t have much time before more guards would arrive to investigate, and Faustino was heavily bound. “Hold on…” Donavan murmured, fumbling for his knife and fitting it quickly into the locking mechanism at Faustino’s right wrist.
"Donavan..." Faustino cried, his body shaking slightly with his emotional sobs. "Oh, Donavan, I was so frightened... But... but now you're here, and... and.... and it'll be okay, because you're here..." He was barely making sense anymore, but he was just so overwhelmed with relief that Donavan had come for him. He felt, after a moment, one wrist come free, then the other, and as soon as he was out of his shackles, he threw his arms around Donavan, crying into his chest. "Oh, Donavan, I love you so much, thank you for saving me... I love you..." But then he felt the dampness on his hand, and he opened his eyes to see red in the dim lighting. "Donavan! You're hurt! Oh, Donavan, it's all my fault, I'm sorry I messed everything up..." Descending into hysterics again, he clutched Donavan's jacket tightly, never wanting to let go, never wanting to be separated from Donavan again.
Donavan hugged Faustino back tightly, wishing he’d never put Faustino through so much, wishing they hadn’t been apart for so long, and vowing to never let it happen again. Seeing Faustino in his current condition reminded Donavan of just how young he was, and though Faustino was a talented and powerful killer, Donavan knew he couldn’t even imagine how frightened Faustino had been. “No,” Donavan said quickly, wiping back Faustino’s tears gently, “No, it’s nothing. I’m fine. I have you with me again, so I’ll be okay.” He smiled and placed a kiss softly on Faustino’s forehead. “I missed you, Faustino. But it’s all going to be all right. We’re getting out of here.” He took out the pistol he’d been saving for Faustino and pressed it into his hands with a smile. With the two of them working together, whatever guards were left wouldn’t stand a chance. “I love you,” Donavan murmured, holding Faustino’s gaze only a moment longer before starting on the chain at his ankles.
As he felt the gun pressed into his palm, Faustino swallowed, trying to pull himself together. The feel of the smooth metal reminded him that he really was strong, and he could help Donavan. That was what he did. He was strong. He knew he had to do his best, to keep Donavan from getting hurt any worse, after all, Donavan was everything to him. He would be strong, for Donavan. "I love you, Donavan," he replied softly, still clinging tightly to Donavan with his free hand. "Everything will be okay, because we're together. Right?"
“Right,” Donavan nodded, getting to his feet once the lock on the shackles was undone. “We’ll be out of here in no time, and with the Queen out of the way, thanks to you, everything will be even better now.” He grinned broadly and took Faustino’s hand in his and gave it a squeeze. “I’m so glad you’re all right… But we’re going to have to fight our way out. Are you ready?”
Before Faustino could respond, a guard had appeared at the door and Donavan threw the knife he still held, killing the would-be attacker. He let go of Faustino’s hand and moved forward cautiously, peering out the door as he knelt to retrieve the weapon. The way was clear, at least for the moment, and Donavan knew it was crucial that they got into the open where they could seek cover. Turning back to Faustino, he gave him another smile, relieved to be with him again, and took his hand once more before rushing out into the hall and taking off towards the stairs leading back up to the main part of the castle.
Faustino felt safer when Donavan clutched his hand in his own, and he held on tightly as he followed Donavan up the stairs. As they were reaching the top, however, he could hear footsteps, and then more guards appeared, all armed and ready to fire. This time, however, Faustino was prepared, he wouldn't let them hurt him or Donavan, and he raised his gun and fired a single shot at each one, killing them all before they could get a shot off. Though he hadn't had problems this time, though, he was worried about the rest of the trip, and about how much ammunition they had left. "Donavan," he asked softly, "How far until we get out? Are we going to make it?"
“We will,” Donavan said confidently, though he was slightly concerned himself, “Especially if you keep shooting like that,” he added with a grin, in spite of his own fears. He didn’t want Faustino to be afraid; Donavan needed him to stay confident, because if they did make it, it would only be because they both fought as hard as they could. They’d been lucky before, but climbing a staircase was one of the worst places to end up in a gun fight.
“Here,” Donavan said quickly when they reached the top, pausing to pull Faustino close to them so that they could both hide in the frame of the door. “This is all the ammo I have left. I just reloaded, so you should take two.” He passed Faustino his share and tucked his own back into his pocket as he leaned forward carefully peering out into the hall. Immediately, he spotted two guards kneeling over the body of a fallen guard who looked to be just clinging to life. Donavan scoffed eternally, and turned back to Faustino, who had finished reloading, and signaled him to be ready.
Without a second’s hesitation, Donavan released Faustino’s hand and charged forward, shooting and killing both guards. It was only then that he realized that there were over a dozen more, all scattered about the hall, with the highest concentration located at the door that lead to the parlor where the servant’s corridor ended. The way he’d come was blocked off; they’d need to find an alternate escape route.
The guards were charging now, and Donavan emptied the remainder of his ammunition on the group, distracting them long enough for Faustino to join him, his gun blazing as well. He then dove to the ground beside a fallen guard and swapped out his spent pistol for the royal issue one, speeding forward with Faustino towards the opposite wall and emptying his second weapon as well. Reaching a door, Donavan tossed the weapon to the ground and kicked it open, pulling Faustino inside and slamming it shut, barricading it with the largest piece of furniture the room contained. “This isn’t the way I came in,” Donavan explained hurriedly to Faustino. “Do you have any idea where we are?”
"N-not really," Faustino replied timidly, looking around. They appeared to be in a parlor of some sort, but Faustino had never seen it before. "We ought to look for servant's passages in order to get out, right?" He looked around frantically, but the room really was unfamiliar, and he was at a loss. "Maybe there's a kitchen nearby, and we'll be able to find a passage from there...? I don't know, Donavan..." Fear was creeping back into his voice, despite how hard he was trying to be a grown up, and he trembled slightly as he looked up at Donavan, hoping he would have a plan.
The room contained two doors, and both were likely to lead deeper into the palace. Still, they had no choice; Donavan could hear the guards pounding at the door, and if they were going to escape, they’d have to get away from their pursuers. “Come on, let’s try this way.” Donavan smiled, keeping his voice confident and holding on to Fuastino’s hand as he led him across the room. Donavan opened the door he’d chosen at random slowly and peered inside, deeming it safe for them both to enter. It was yet another parlor-like room, and as they moved through it, this time taking a side door that opened into a hallway, Donavan couldn’t help but wonder how the royal family could have ever used so many rooms, especially since all of them seemed exactly the same.
The lights in the hall they were in hadn’t been lit, and it was extremely dark. Donavan could only assume that the rooms coming off of it weren’t being used at the time, which was very lucky for them. There were no guards in sight, but they still had to be cautious as they made their way carefully down the hall which it ended abruptly in a small square hatch with an ornate crank just to its right.
“It’s a dumbwaiter!” Donavan said happily, looking down at Faustino with a grin. This was exactly the break they’d been hoping for, and Donavan hurried to open the hatch. The long shaft was pitch black, and Donavan couldn’t even guess at how far down or up the apparatus went, and the actual box that moved between the floors was nowhere in sight. Still, Donavan was quite certain that they could use it to get to the bottom floor, and, better still, the dumbwaiter was likely to open up to the kitchen. “This is perfect,” Donavan said with a nod, waiting no time in turning the crank as quickly as he could. There was no way they could both fit inside the compartment, but perhaps, if it seemed sound enough, they could stand on top of it. “We’ll take this down to the bottom floor, and from there we should be able to find a way out,” Donavan explained as he continued to turn the crank. As long as no one tried to use it while they were in the shaft, they would be home free. Lucky for them, considering the state of things in the palace, it would be unlikely that anyone would be entertaining and needing to transport food between the floors.
At last, the compartment arrived, still carrying a tray of partially eaten food, and Donavan flashed Faustino a reassuring smile as he continued to lower it until it was below the opening in the wall. “I’ll go first to test it.” Donavan offered, placing one leg inside the hatch and applying some of his weight. It held firm, and carefully, he moved his other leg and slipped inside. The whole thing shifted and shook under his weight, and Donavan quickly grabbed onto the rope to steady the apparatus. The pulley was decidedly not built to accommodate so much weight, but as long as he held the rope steady, the thing seemed to be sturdy enough. “All right, I think it’ll be fine, just hold onto the rope in case this thing gives out.”
Faustino nodded, climbing in after Donavan carefully. The box rocked again, and he stumbled, letting out a small cry and clinging onto Donavan as the thing stabilized again. Catching his breath, he felt foolish, and swallowed, telling himself he had to be a grown up now. Holding onto the rope, as Donavan told him, he did his best to keep his balance on the wobbling box. "I'm ready," he said softly, nodding and doing his best to hide his insecurity.
Donavan nodded and leaned over Faustino to close the hatch, shutting them in complete darkness. The space they had was cramped and stuffy, but Donavan couldn’t say he minded it all that much. He liked being so close to Faustino, and he was proud of him for beings so strong. “I’m going to start it moving now…” Donavan murmured, knowing Faustino was likely to be a little scared. “But since the rope’s going to be moving, and I don’t want you to get blisters, you can hold on to me, okay?” Donavan grinned, even though he knew Faustino couldn’t see. Just the short time they’d been apart seemed to make him all the more eager to be as close to Faustino as possible… Donavan thought of his cousin and what he might say, then thought quickly in his own defense that this amount of closeness was completely necessary for their escape. It wasn’t like he’d orchestrated this whole thing as an excuse or anything.
"Okay," Faustino replied a little too quickly, letting go of the rope and throwing his arms around Donavan's waist. Even though he knew he had to be a grown up and do his job and protect Donavan, he was still a little frightened, and more than a little eager to stay close to Donavan. Holding close, he leaned in a little bit, pressing his face against Donavan's stomach. After being so terrified, after knowing he was going to die, being with Donavan again was the best thing he could imagine, and he never wanted to let go. He knew he had to, he knew he had to do his job for them both to escape, but he couldn't wait until they got home and he could just be with Donavan again... and that, he knew, was why he had to be strong, so they could escape and be together again.
The rope was coarse, and the going was slow; the pulley was not designed to be operated by really any method other than the wrench, and Donavan’s hands were beginning to blister. Even so, he didn’t mind, because he knew they were getting close, and soon the both of them would be out of danger. They had both fulfilled their duty to Algernon, and as such, would be rewarded once he’d taken power. And maybe then, Faustino wouldn’t have to do so much… Donavan knew he was scared, and felt terrible for putting him in such a terrible situation. He wouldn’t let it happen again…he didn’t ever want them to be separated. At least now…at least this closeness that Donavan knew he shouldn’t be enjoying but was, nevertheless, at least it was making up for a bit of the time they’d been apart. “It’s going to be all right,” Donavan said softly, his voice barely audible over the sound of the compartment creaking. “We must be almost to the bottom by now.”
By the time they finally felt the compartment hit the floor below, Donavan’s hands were numb, rubbed raw by the rope. It hurt to spread his fingers, but he ignored the pain and immediately began searching for the hatch that he hoped would open up into a kitchen. “It’s got to be around here somewhere, probable at your level… See if you can find a gap.” Donavan instructed, fumbling blindly himself in search of the hatch.
Faustino nodded, reluctantly letting go of Donavan and bending over, sitting on his knees and feeling around the wall for a ridge of any sort. It didn't take too long; soon, he felt a break in the wall, and then hinges, and with a few shoves, a small door swung open, revealing a square of light. "I got it!" he reported to Donavan with a grin before carefully climbing through the hatch and dropping the few feet to the ground. Stepping aside, he held his gun ready, just in case any guard appeared, waiting for Donavan to emerge, too. This was it, they were almost free... he just had to be strong a little longer, and so he steadied himself as he waited for Donavan.
Donavan blinked into the light and waited as Faustino got out before climbing awkwardly through the small, inconveniently placed space and stepping out into what appeared to be a kitchen. Donavan clenched his hands into fists, wincing slightly and hiding them in his pockets so as not to worry Faustino, and grinned confidently. “This is it. We’re almost out. Let’s find the door and get away from here.” The few servants that were working in the kitchen knew better than to try and interfere, and all of them lowered their eyes and pretended not to notice them as they moved through the kitchen to the opposite side of the room where there was a single window and a small door. They’d done it. Just a little bit more, and they’d be safe. Donavan was down to only his rapier now, though, and Faustino had just a few shots left. They’d have to be judicious in their use of weapons, and save the last few shots until they absolutly needed them.
Donavan backed against the wall with the window and leaned forward slowly, examining the palace grounds that stretched out in front of the door. There were four guards positioned immediately outside, and undoubtedly countless more in the fields beyond. Donavan ducked back behind the cover of the wall, and turned to Faustino. “There’s four of them that we’re going to have to kill, but if we can, we should try and do it silently. There are even more between us and the street, and they’ll all come after us if they hear a commotion.” Donavan passed Faustino his knife, wishing he had something better for him to use. “Even if we do kill these four without a hitch, I think we’re going to just have to bolt and hope we don’t run into any more trouble… We’re too outnumbered and underprepared to do much else.”
Faustino swallowed and nodded, accepting the knife and doing his best to push his fear from his mind. They were so close now, soon they'd be safe at home and everything would be okay. He couldn't think about all of the soldiers in between, he knew he and Donavan could take them... he just couldn't be afraid. They could do it. Telling himself this one more time, he looked up to Donavan, and suddenly felt the urge to say something, in case they didn't make it... which, of course, they would, but just in case... Catching Donavan's hand one last time, he looked up into his eyes and said, as softly as he could, so they wouldn't be heard, "I love you," before letting go and readying himself for the fight. They could do it... he just had to think positive now. He had Donavan with him, so everything would be okay.
Donavan smiled lovingly down at Faustino, touched by the sentiment of his words. Still, Donavan knew it wouldn’t be the last time he heard them, and though he murmured the same phrase back to Faustino, he knew that once they’d escaped, he’d say it again because he meant it. Donavan loved Faustino more than he’d ever loved anyone before, ever even thought it was possible to love someone, and he knew that because of that, the two of them would find a way to make it out together, no matter what.
With a final nod to Faustino and his rapier in hand, Donavan slowly pushed the door open, pressing himself against it and using the thick wood as cover because the moment the door opened, the guards were firing on the two of them and Donavan could hear the bullets sinking into their shield. Donavan broke away from Faustino, lunging forward at the nearest guard and sinking his blade into the man’s gut, wrenching it back quickly and kicking the body away so that he could redouble, attacking the next closest assailant ferociously.
Faustino swallowed, then followed Donavan's lead, lunging out from behind him at the next guard coming around and going straight for his heart with the dagger. The length of the blade made it difficult for him, since the guards were so much taller than he was, and though he would have liked to go for the neck, it was impossible. Luckily, as he pulled his blade back out, the man collapsed as blood began to flow heavily from the wound, and Faustino looked up just in time to see the last guard coming towards him. Throwing the dagger, he managed to hit the man squarely in the chest, and only waited for him to drop to the ground before hurrying to retrieve his dagger. With that taken care of, he turned back to Donavan hurriedly, awaiting instructions, hoping everything was going all right.
“Nicely done,” Donavan nodded hurriedly, flashing Faustino a quick smile. He would have liked to have praised him further—both his kills had been perfect—but he knew they didn’t have much time. The gunshots the guards had fired before they’d been silenced were sure to have caught the attention of other guards on patrol, and Donavan was sure the whole castle had probably been alerted that there were intruders and the prisoner had escaped. Taking Faustino by the hand once again, Donavan took off in the direction of the streets, moving swiftly but cautiously, taking care to avoid any guards on patrol on the grounds.
The tall iron fence separating the palace grounds from the city beyond was in sight, and Donavan was confident they’d make it—a little too confident. A guard standing near the gate caught sight of them and, panicking, fired.
Donavan heard the gun go off and spun to face the attacker, moving in front of Faustino and tearing the gun from his hands, firing back on the guard in a fluid motion. Donavan hadn’t even felt the bullet as it ripped through his side, and he didn’t even stop to check the severity, not until he and Faustino had reached the fence. “Can you fit through the bars?” Donavan asked, panting as his hand slowly moved to the injury. “I’ll climb over…” Donavan trailed, his exhaustion beginning to catch up with him at last. They were so close, though. He couldn’t give into the pain now. He managed to smile, and forced his hand to his side, wiping the sticky blood onto his knickers. “Almost there,” he said reassuringly, trying to ignore the wound and hoping Faustino would as well. They had to get out before they could waste any time worrying about what happened.
Faustino had pushed all thoughts from his mind besides those of escaping, but as soon as Donavan had been shot, he couldn't help it, he slipped. "Donavan--" he cried, but Donavan seemed to be doing his best to ignore it, and so Faustino fought back the hot tears that had suddenly appeared again in the corners of his eyes and did as told, slipping between the metal bars to the safety of the street outside. He stood back to watch as Donavan made his way over the top, worry still etched in his features, and he took Donavan's hand as soon as he was down. "Donavan, are you all right?" he asked hurriedly, desperately. If something happened to Donavan because he had been trying to save him, Faustino would never be able to forgive himself. "Do you need help? You can lean on me, I can get us home. Donavan, I'm so sorry..."
Donavan squeezed Faustino’s hand gently and looked down at him with a smile as he struggled not to think about his wounds and not to let the pain show on his face. They were out of the palace, but until they were safely back home, Donavan couldn’t afford to let his guard down. “I’ll be fine,” Donavan nodded. “I have an automobile parked just a little way away from here… Stay close to me… We don’t want to arouse any suspicions. And hopefully no one will notice us…” A bloodied palace guard walking with a young boy matching the assassin’s description was rather conspicuous, but the streets did not seem crowded, and after making it so far, Donavan was confident they could manage the short distance to the automobile. “Faustino…” Donavan said slowly as they turned down a small alley to avoid as many people as they could, “We made it.”
Faustino nodded quickly, swallowing but not daring to open his mouth for fear that he would lose his control and begin to cry. He knew he had to keep being grown up, he knew that they weren't safe yet, but he was just feeling so overwhelmed that he couldn't help it. Finally, they made it to the automobile, and Faustino hurried around to the other side to climb into the passenger's seat, feeling that even the time it took to walk around the automobile was far too long to be separated from Donavan, and he was silent during the drive home, holding his breath for their safety, holding his breath to keep from losing it altogether.
After what felt like years, they finally arrived at the manor, finally got the automobile parked, finally got inside. Faustino hurried to help Donavan into the nearest sitting room and sent the servants scurrying to bring warm water and ointments and bandages and clean clothes. Only once he had gotten Donavan to sit down on one of the sofas did Faustino finally break, finally let his adult act drop. Throwing his arms around Donavan, he burst into tears, burying his face in Donavan's chest and not even able to manage words. He felt so terrible for failing, for forcing Donavan to come rescue him, he was overjoyed that they had made it out together and alive, he was overwhelmingly worried about the injured state in which Donavan was now. His guilt and his relief sloshed around inside his head like blood and water, and he didn't know what to feel, what to say, what to do besides to hold onto Donavan like he would never let go again and to cry.
Donavan held Faustino tightly in his arms, listening to him cry and feeling the guilt hit him harder than ever before. Faustino was just a child, and all this time, Donavan had been forcing him to act like an adult, sculpting him, a young boy, into a killer. All for Algernon’s plan—for Algernon, who hadn’t even been willing to stick his neck on the line to save Faustino when he needed his help most. Donavan knew that no eight-year-old should ever have to endure what Faustino had; no one his age should have been forced to kill and suffer the consequences… Yet Faustino had done it all… He was truly remarkable, and while Donavan blamed himself for forcing Faustino to endure all that he had, Donavan was still extremely proud of him for rising to the challenge.
For now, though, Donavan knew that Faustino had had enough of acting like an adult… A lot had happened in just the past two days, and they were both going to need time to recover. “Faustino,” Donavan cooed softly, “it’s all right now. You’re safe, and I promise you, I’ll be fine.” Gently, Donavan tilted Faustino’s face up so that he could look into his eyes. Faustino’s face, flushed and tear streaked, a little scared and unsure, filled Donavan, not with guilt, as he’d expected, but an overwhelming desire to make Faustino feel better…to express to him how much everything he’d done meant to Donavan. Donavan didn’t know what to say, but he did know what to do, and without thinking, with no regard for the consequences, he pressed a kiss to Faustino’s lips softly and held it. Once again, he was forcing Faustino to act adult, but Donavan was more concerned with letting Faustino know how grateful he was that worrying about what the kiss actually meant.
Faustino was surprised when Donavan kissed him, but the surprise quickly faded into a warm feeling in his stomach that was a lot better than anything else he had been feeling, and as he felt Donavan's lips against his own, it seemed like everything was lightening up a little. They were home, they were safe, they had made it out alive, and most importantly, Donavan loved him. That was all the mattered in the end, and so when Donavan pulled back slightly after a moment, Faustino smiled through his tears. "Thank you, Donavan" he sniffed, swallowing and continuing to smile warmly. "You saved me... I love you, Donavan." Softly, quickly, he kissed Donavan back on the lips before sitting back and wiping his eyes. Things would be okay, so long as he and Donavan were together, of that he was sure.
Soon, the servants arrived with all the things Faustino had ordered, and he had them set it out on the table, turning back to Donavan, ready to be an adult again, at least for a little longer. Carefully, he reached up to unbutton Donavan's jacket, pulling it away and dropping it on the floor in a sticky, bloody mess. "We have to get you cleaned up," he explained, as if it wasn't obvious, "So I'm going to take off your shirt, too, okay?" He offered a comforting smile; after all, since all of this was his fault, he wanted to do everything he could to make sure Donavan healed as fast as possible.
Donavan nodded blankly, too much in shock to say anything. Faustino was…undressing him. And they’d shared their first real kiss. It was…a little hard from him to process, especially because all he could hear in his internal monologue was his cousin, yelling at him for having taken advantage of Faustino—when he was crying, no less! But, Donavan told himself, now really wasn’t the time to be thinking about what Perceval would say. He didn’t need to know, and right now…Donavan just wanted to enjoy the way Faustino’s hands felt, warm, small, and agile, as they moved slowly over his chest undoing each button.
Donavan smiled rather predatorily, but he knew he had to hold himself back. He may have shut of the Perceval-voice-of-reason, but he still had to respect the innocent love Faustino felt for him, at least for now.
It stung a little when Faustino pulled the remains of the shirt from the wounds, but Donavan clenched his jaw to keep the pain from showing. “Faustino, can you hand me those tweezers? The bullet’s still inside this one… I’ll dig it out while you clean the other one.” Donavan smiled apologetically. He didn’t really need Faustino’s help—he was used to cleaning himself up after a fight turned the wrong way—but there was just something about Faustino’s loving determination, and Donavan couldn’t say no to having his hands against his bare skin.
Faustino bit his lip and nodded, handing the tweezers to Donavan before turning back to the table and taking one of the cloths. Dipping it in the warm water, he crawled into Donavan's lap, dabbing at his waist to wipe away the congealing and drying blood. "Donavan," he said softly, guilt once more tugging at his heart as he began to be able to see the bullet wound. "I'm so, so sorry... I failed, and you got hurt to save me... I'm sorry, Donavan..."
“You didn’t fail,” Donavan smiled and shook his head, pausing in his efforts to remove the bullet so that he could reassure Faustino. “You killed the Queen!” Donavan exclaimed. “What you did was amazing—everything went perfectly according to plan. It’s just that I should have been there to help you get out… I should have done more to help you. And if—” Donavan clenched his jaw angrily as he went over what had gone wrong. “If Dragomir and Christian hadn’t been there, we would have escaped together yesterday. I should have been more prepared.” Donavan looked down once again, wincing as he pushed the tweezers deeper into the wound, searching for the various fragments of the bullet and its casing.
Faustino smiled despite himself at the praise, setting aside the cloth and reaching for the ointment. At the mention of Dragomir and Christian, however, his expression darkened, and he looked up a moment from rubbing the stuff into Donavan's skin. "After you're all better... once the Commandant's plan's done and everything's all better... then can I kill Christian, please? I just want to get rid of him, so you don't have to worry anymore..." Sighing, he returned the ointment and grabbed the bandages, reaching around Donavan's body to begin wrapping the wound. "I want to do everything I can to help you, Donavan... thank you for saving me."
Donavan smirked. “You can kill him the moment you see him. You don’t need permission from me—I know you can handle yourself,” Donavan added proudly. “And you know, I wouldn’t have made it back out if I didn’t have you… and even if I didn’t go back in for you, I don’t think I could have kept going…” His expression softened and he looked up from his wound at Faustino. “You mean a lot to me, Faustino. I love you.”
Faustino smiled warmly, finishing the bandaging. "I love you, too, Donavan... I'm really glad that everything's going to be okay now. We're together, so everything's going to be okay, right?" Though he was finished, he was reluctant to leave Donavan's lap, and so he leaned against his chest, careful to avoid the injuries, putting his arms around Donavan's waist. "I'm glad I have you, Donavan... I love you."
Donavan extracted the last bit of metal from his injury and put the small collection of bullet-remains on the table so that he could wrap his arms around Faustino. “Yeah, everything’s going to work out. Now that the queen’s dead, we just sit back and watch as everything falls into place.” He grinned and looked down at Faustino lovingly. “I’m not going to let you out of my sight for a while, okay? I missed you too much.”
"I want to stay by your side," Faustino replied, resting his face against Donavan's chest. Now that everything was okay again, he was suddenly feeling very sleepy... after all, he had spent the night in prison, terrified and alone, and now that he was back together with Donavan, he was realizing how tired he was. Letting his eyes fall shut, he sighed contentedly in Donavan's arms. "...'m a little sleepy... but... Donavan... I don't wanna be alone..." He struggled to stay awake, but he knew it was a losing battle, and so he clung to Donavan tighter, not wanting to be separated, even in sleep. He had spent the whole last night all alone, and he didn't want to be forced apart ever again.
Donavan nodded with a smile. He should have known Faustino would be exhausted. He probably hadn’t been able to sleep at all the night before, and Donavan knew he’d been pushing him hard for a long time. The both needed to rest, and Donavan certainly wasn’t adverse to staying close… He’d meant it when he said he wasn’t leaving Faustino alone. “You can fall asleep if you want,” Donavan said gently. “I’ll carry you to my room with me once I finish taking care of this… Don’t worry, I’ll stay with you.”
"Good..." Faustino mumbled, smiling softly, relaxing against Donavan and giving up the fight to stay awake. It felt so good to be with Donavan again, to be safe and warm. Snuggling into Donavan's chest happily, he murmured, "Thank you, Donavan... I love you..." before drifting off, feeling loved and cared for.
“Sleep well,” Donavan said softly, watching as Faustino fell softly into a deep sleep. After he’d finished bandaging his shoulder, Donavan gently lifted Faustino into his arms and carried him up the stairs before easing Faustino slowly down on to the bed and kneeling to remove his shoes, marveling at just how good it felt to be with Faustino again and relishing the simplicity of the moment.
They’d finished their part in the plan. From now on, it was just the two of them and they could do whatever they wanted, go where ever they wanted, and for their part in Algernon’s plan, they’d be rewarded. More importantly however, Faustino was safe, and Donavan knew that from now on, they’d never be apart.
Claimer: Ours...*sniff* TT____TT;;
Rating: R
Warnings: Excessive violence, character death, BL, shota, language
Beta:
wearenotaskitz is excited for the shota. XD;;Donavan was back in his palace guard uniform, and this time he was armed to the hilt. After losing his temper with Algernon, he’d returned home to change clothes, rebandage his arm, and figure out the best course of action. He would be breaking into the palace, fighting his way through, killing anyone who obstructed his path down to the dungeons, where he was assuming Faustino was being held, and then he would fight his way back out and escape with Faustino. Donavan hadn’t slept—couldn’t possibly have slept, not with the thought of Faustino, alone and frightened in prison—and was running on pure rage and desperation. He hated letting his emotions take such a hold over him, but Faustino’s life was at stake, and he couldn’t control his feelings enough to remain calm.
The people on the street that led to the palace all looked at him nervously, and most moved out of his way, but a few tried to question him about the previous day’s events. The sun had only just risen, but word had already spread that the Queen was dead and that the assassin had been a young Hispanian. Donavan had a gun in his hand, and with a single word and a flash of his weapon, everyone moved out of his way. He didn’t have time to play a role now—Faustino’s condition was far too uncertain—and Donavan didn’t really care if he was discovered. He was willing to do whatever it took to get to Faustino as fast as he could, and he wouldn’t let anyone stand in his way.
Eliana hurried through the streets, her hands clenched in fists with her determination, but the original flood of emotion had passed slightly, and now she was beginning to worry. How, exactly, could she save Faustino? There was no way she could get into the palace, and even if she could, she could never get past guards, or break him out of prison. Still, she knew she had to because she couldn't let him die, she couldn't lose another loved one to the queen.
As she rushed her way through the crowd, trying to figure out what she was going to do, she caught a glimpse of a uniform-- a palace guard. Spurred on, she hurried over to him, not sure what she was planning to do but knowing she had to do something. She could ask him something, somehow gain his trust... maybe... she wasn't sure, but she grabbed him by the arm just the same, opening her mouth to ask before her eyes widened with realization as she saw his face. "Y-you--?!" she asked in shock, staring into the eyes of none other than Donavan D'Aubigne. "What--?! What's become of Faustino?!"
Donavan’s mouth fell open for a second before he regained himself and yanked his arm from her grasp. He didn’t know what to say, how he could answer the question? Faustino’s mother had been the very last person he’d expected to see at a time like this, and possibly the worst person he could have run into.
It was his fault Faustino was in the position he was, and while Donavan didn’t regret teaching him all that he now knew, it was difficult for him to face Faustino’s mother and lie to her about what had happened. He’d made a mistake, and she deserved to know what had become of her child. After all, he knew what she must be going through, because he was certain that whatever anxiety she was experiencing, his was ten times more excruciating. “They have him.” Donavan said plainly.
Eliana's stomach clenched as her fears were confirmed, and as tears sprang to her eyes, she looked away for a moment. What was there to do now? There was no way in reality that she could save him... but with the help of a criminal... maybe there was a way? Looking back up to D'Aubigne and wiping at her tears, she grasped his arm again. "Please! You have to help me save him, you have to help me get him out!" She swallowed, looking down and thinking before looking into his eyes plaintively again. "Please, I know he must not mean much to you, but he's everything to me, he's my son! You have to help me get him out... I know you can do it, please... Otherwise, they'll... they'll kill him! Please, help me!"
Even at a time like this, Donavan couldn’t help but smirk at her plea. She had no idea. There was no way she could possible understand how much Faustino meant to him. “Look,” Donavan replied, once again pulling out of her grasp as he looked around to make sure no one was listening. “I will save him. And I don’t think that there’s anything you can do to help me. In fact, if you get in my way, I’m not going to give you a warning—you’ll get exactly the same treatment as any other obstacle.” Donavan set his jaw and narrowed his eyes, thinking about the time he’d wasted just in speaking to Esparanza. “I’m going to save Faustino, but I’m not doing it for you. He means everything to me.” Donavan didn’t know what sort of reaction to expect, and frankly, he didn’t care what she did. He turned on his heel and started walking. She could do as she pleased.
Eliana's heart leapt with hope when D'Aubgine announced that he would indeed save Faustino, but she was taken aback yet again at his next comment. He cared for Faustino...? How could that even be—after all he'd done to him? But yet, he sounded determined, and she couldn't understand any other reason for him to want so badly to go in for Faustino besides real love. Perhaps it was possible... perhaps, in his criminal way, he really did love Faustino. If he really cared enough to want to risk everything for her son, maybe he wasn't such a terrible person. Maybe...
But there wasn't time for those thoughts now. They had to hurry to save Faustino now, and she could worry about D'Aubigne and his dubious relationship with her son later. Hurrying after him, she replied, trying to sound just as certain, "I'll do whatever I can to save Faustino—don't underestimate me. I'm coming with you."
With Esparanza walking just at his heels, Donavan had to reevaluate his plan of blending in with the other palace guards. On their way through the grounds, Donavan had been forced to grab her by the arm, explaining to a guard that they’d come across accidently that he had arrested the Hispanian woman for loitering around the palace grounds, and that she was suspected of sympathizing with the young Hispanian prisoner.
The guard bought his story, and Esparanza had put up a passable act; either way, it had been enough to get away from the guard and motivation to cautiously avoid the others on patrol. After the attack, the security was quite a bit stricter, and as they came upon the entrance that Faustino had used to get inside only the day before—a servant’s passage that was supposed to be unguarded—Donavan realized that the rescue would not be as easy as he had hoped.
Gesturing for Esparanza to stay put, he drew his dagger and moved swiftly and quietly until he was just behind one of the two guards watching the obscure entrance. Lunging forward, Donavan sunk the blade deep inside the guard’s back, jerking it roughly upwards to ensure a fast death. In a quick and fluid motion, he yanked the blade from the body and sprang onto the second guard, stabbing him in the throat before he could even shout in surprise. Donavan flicked the blood from the knife and knelt in front of the door to coax the lock open with the same dagger.
Eliana swallowed and pressed a hand over her mouth to keep herself quiet at the display of brutality before her, but, she had to remind herself, he was doing it for Faustino. Standing carefully aside, she waited for D'Aubigne to finish his violence and then to open the door, following close behind him. It was strange, how she had gone from being filled with terror and hatred towards him, and now was relying on him for everything. But now wasn't the time for those thoughts, she reminded herself again, now she had to stay on her guard and try her hardest to do something useful to save her son.
Inside, Donavan lead the way through the expanse of servant’s quarters and through the kitchen; the stairwell that led down to the underground floor and dungeons was in the main part of the castle, but until they reached it, Donavan intended to take advantage of the network of servant’s corridors that were likely to be relatively unguarded.
The few servants they passed ignored their presence; all of them were too afraid for their own lives to act against the intruders. Donavan had a pistol cocked and ready however, just in case one of them made a move. They encountered no problems, and made it through the kitchen and out into a tight service hallway where a single guard was stationed, and Donavan silenced him instantly with his dagger once again. He was hesitant to use his pistol until it was absolutely necessary, wary of the noise and commotion it was likely to cause.
By the time the service hallway had ended, Donavan had already picked off seven guards. They were few and far in between, but the cramped, low-ceilinged passageway had come to an end, and he knew they would not be so lucky in the main part of the castle.
Slowly, Donavan opened the door and peered out, confirming the room was clear before allowing Esparanza to move out into a small parlor at the back of the castle. Thus far, she had not caused any troubles, but Donavan wouldn’t hesitate to leave her behind if she couldn’t keep up with him as they worked their way through the palace.
“Stick close to me,” Donavan commanded under his breath as he reached forward to slowly open the door that lead out into a hall. They were on the last leg of their mission, but its difficulty was second only to the actual escape with Faustino. At the end of the hall was the base of one of the castle towers in which the main set of stairs leading down to the dungeons was located. The stairs were almost guaranteed to be under heavy guard, but Donavan was confident he could fight his way through.
Eliana nodded, doing her best to stay at D'Aubigne's heels. Her heart was pounding so hard, she was sure D'Aubigne could hear it, and she was afraid it might even give them away, though she knew it was stupid. She just had to be careful, and to do what he said... but still, she had never been in such a frightening situation, and so close to death. But no matter what, it was worth it for Faustino. She would do anything for Faustino, and so she took a deep breath and followed D'Aubigne, putting all her faith in him.
It wasn’t until Donavan had led the way out of the room and taken the first few steps that he was able to see the dozen guards lining the hall. While the heavy guard would make it extremely difficult to get to Faustino, there was an upside. Obviously, the palace officials had some sort of idea of how dangerous Faustino was, and were taking special precautions to make sure he stayed locked up, and this of course meant that he was still alive. Donavan breathed a sigh of relief and glanced quickly at Esparanza. Things were about to get extremely dangerous, and he was almost positive that she wouldn’t make it through alive. Looking at her now…he could see her resemblance to Faustino, and a mild pang of guilt swept through him. What would he say to Faustino if she died? Donavan personally had no vested interest in her whatsoever. In fact, he was almost jealous of the affection she would likely get from Faustino if they were reunited. He knew, though, that her death would devastate Faustino, and that Donavan couldn’t allow.
His mind set, Donavan turned back the guards and took aim. He would have to move as quickly as possible to off as many as he could before they counter attacked. Never before had he taken on so many men by himself, but Donavan knew that in his desperation to save Faustino, he could do anything.
Donavan inhaled sharply as he pulled the trigger, throwing himself against the wall for the minimal cover it offered and knocking Esparanza to the floor to keep her from being shot at. The guards snapped instantly to attention and all drew their weapons, but Donavan had already taken aim and fired on the second guard, killing him before he was able to complete his attack. Darting forward, Donavan fired again, taking down another as bullets ripped through the air all around him.
Donavan’s injured left arm stung as he unsheathed his dagger and plunged it into the chest of the first guard he encountered at point blank range, killing him before the guard could even react. Using the body as a shield, Donavan continued to charge forward, and took down two more guards.
Out of rounds, Donavan discarded the pistol and drew another, cocking it and taking aim as the sound of gunshots rang in his ears and the body he held trembled in his grasp as the bullets tore into the dead flesh. As Donavan fired once again on another opponent, he felt a sharp pain in his shoulder and looked down to confirm that a bullet had gone straight through the body and lodged itself just below his clavicle. Gasping, Donavan discarded the human shield and made a dash for a stone pillar, diving behind it to evade the storm of bullets speeding towards him.
The heavy gunfire had caught the attention of several other guards who had no doubt initially been positioned in the surrounding corridors and inside the dungeon itself, and Donavan’s chances of victory were becoming slimmer by the second. He was, no doubt, practically surrounded now, but his only chance would be to continue in the same vein he’d started and keep moving forward until he could get to the dungeon and get to Faustino.
Eliana was barely able to believe what was going on around her; never before had she been in such a terrifying, dangerous situation, but she knew that this was what she had to do for her son. She did her best to stay out of the way and let D'Aubigne do what he had to do, but soon, it became apparent that he was overwhelmed. Despite her previous hated of the criminal, now, she knew, he was her only hope, and she couldn't bear the thought of something happening to him, not when they were so close to saving Faustino... She had to do something, but what?
She was distracted from the thought, however, at the sound of more footsteps, and she turned to see another swarm of guards appearing from behind D'Aubgine. They were all drawing their weapons and charging, and Eliana knew she couldn't let them hurt D'Aubgine... for Faustino. She alone couldn't save him... but D'Aubgine could. With that one thought in mind, she took a deep breath and launched herself, full speed, between D'Aubgine and the guns of the guards just as they were firing, and, to her surprise, she wasn't afraid. For her son, she could do anything.
For a moment, it seemed as if time slowed, and she could almost see the shots midair as they flew towards her until they impacted, and then there was a tearing pain in her chest and she was falling to the ground, and blood was everywhere. But when she looked up, she could see D'Aubgine was still standing, and that was what mattered. Smiling to herself, she let her head fall limp against the ground... it hurt less that way. She couldn't tell how many times she had been shot... three... four... did it matter? D'Aubgine could save Faustino now... he would take care of her boy... and that was what mattered.
Donavan spun around quickly at the sound of the shots going off behind him and cursed loudly when he spotted Esparanza’s bloodied body on the floor. He didn’t have time, however, to do anything about her. She’d taken the bullets for him so that he could finish of the guards who’d fired before they could shoot again, and that was just what he did. Ignoring the pain in his left arm and shoulder, Donavan drew a second weapon and fired both into the oncoming group of guards, running as fast as he could across the hall in an effort to avoid their second volley of bullets. He took down five and discarded his now empty pistol, drawing a knife and hurling it into an oncoming guard’s head as he finished off the last one with the pistol in his left hand.
Spinning back around, Donavan transferred his pistol to his right hand and fired three shots in quick succession, leaving only one guard left barring the way to Faustino. Donavan dropped his now empty gun and drew his last dagger, dashing forward at top speed, narrowly avoiding another bullet, and jamming the knife up through the man’s chin with satisfaction.
As the last adversary slumped to the floor, Donavan took a deep breath and replaced the still bloody weapon in its sheath, making his way over the bodies back to where he’d dropped his last weapon, back where Esparanza had fallen. Kneeling, he picked up the gun and began reloading it as he looked over the woman carefully. She’d taken five bullets. If she was still alive, it was only barely, and it wouldn’t be for much longer. Faustino didn’t need to know what happened. For all he knew, his mother hadn’t even heard about what he’d done, and that was the way Donavan would keep it. “I’ll take care of him,” Donavan said sincerely as he got to his feet. Donavan knew she only took the bullets because she knew that only he would be able to get to Faustino, and he knew that she probably hated him, but he felt sorry for her, and wanted to assure her that her son would be all right, that her sacrifice wouldn’t be in vain.
The world was washy and hazy around Eliana, but she could make out D'Aubgine's face, and she smiled softly. The pain had dulled somehow, had lost its edge, and her vision was swimming and black around the edges, but she heard D'Aubigne's words as clearly as anything, and it was all she needed to hear. So long as her son was taken care of... so long as D'Aubgine would love him and look after him, even if it wasn't ideal... if Faustino was all right, she could die happy. "Th--thank you..." she wheezed, finding it harder than she anticipated to breathe, her smile not fading as she let her eyes fall shut. Everything would be okay, so long as Faustino was cared for... She had put her trust in D'Aubigne, and she would believe in him now... because everything would be all right, and she could relax now, and let the pain fade away knowing Faustino would be all right...
Donavan was panting by the time he reached the bottom of the winding staircase down to the dungeon and was yet again nearly out of ammunition. A guard had nearly taken him by surprise in the stairwell, and he’d wasted an extra bullet in his hurry to take the man out. Now, as he reached the dungeon, he had just one extra pistol for Faustino and four more spare rounds of ammunition. Hopefully it would be enough to get them both back out.
Before him stretched a cramped, dark, and winding hall lined in heavy wooden doors that undoubtedly lead into countless dank cells. Somewhere, Faustino was locked up, alone and scared, but finally, he was within reach. It wouldn’t be much longer until Faustino would be back with him, and that was all the motivation Donavan needed to forget his injuries and take off once again at a run. “Faustino!” Donavan called loudly, hoping he would be heard and Faustino would find away to let him know which cell his was in.
Then, from the gloom ahead of him, two guards appeared running at full speed towards him, brandishing swords. Donavan fired his last bullet, taking out one, and drew his sword, slicing madly at his opponent and knocking his weapon out of the way so that he could sink his blade into the man’s chest. Donavan was certain that the two had been guarding Faustino’s cell, and called out again as he yanked the sword from the body, running forward once more and reloading his weapon as he ran. “Faustino!” he called out loudly, a bit of emotion creeping into his voice as he paused, desperate for a reply.
Faustino had been in the dark for so long now, he had lost track of time, lost track of everything. With his arms in shackles welded to the wall above his head and his ankles chained together, too, he hung limply in his bindings, too tired to cry anymore. He knew he had failed, he had failed Donavan and everyone, and even after Donavan had risked his life to save him, Faustino had still failed. And then he had woken up in this frightening place, and there had been talk of trials and executions, and he couldn't be a grown up anymore. He was frightened, terrified, and completely defeated, everything had crumbled around him, and now he had nothing. He had cried and cried and cried until he couldn't cry anymore, and then he had fallen limp, helpless and weak. There was nothing he could do, he was a failure, and now he was going to die, all alone, without ever seeing Donavan again.
But then he had heard something, and he thought he was going crazy, but he looked up, hopeful, despite himself. There was a gunshot, and a scuffle, and then another call, and then Faustino was in tears again. "D-Donavan--?" he cried out weakly, frightened, but yet hopeful, "Donavan... Donavan?!" His calls grew more shrill and hysterical as he could make out a figure--Donavan's figure-- in the shadows, and his tears came harder. "Donavan!"
“Faustino!” Donavan cried back, relief washing over him, practically threatening to knock him off his feet. He shot the heavy padlock that held the door in place twice before it shattered, then threw the door open and rushed to Faustino’s side, falling to the floor next to him and wrapping his arms around him, shaking with emotion. “I was so worried!” Donavan gasped, pulling back to look over Faustino hurriedly. “Are you all right? I’m sorry I couldn’t get to you sooner! I’m so sorry I let this happen to you!” He squeezed Faustino once again and tried to get a hold of himself. They really didn’t have much time before more guards would arrive to investigate, and Faustino was heavily bound. “Hold on…” Donavan murmured, fumbling for his knife and fitting it quickly into the locking mechanism at Faustino’s right wrist.
"Donavan..." Faustino cried, his body shaking slightly with his emotional sobs. "Oh, Donavan, I was so frightened... But... but now you're here, and... and.... and it'll be okay, because you're here..." He was barely making sense anymore, but he was just so overwhelmed with relief that Donavan had come for him. He felt, after a moment, one wrist come free, then the other, and as soon as he was out of his shackles, he threw his arms around Donavan, crying into his chest. "Oh, Donavan, I love you so much, thank you for saving me... I love you..." But then he felt the dampness on his hand, and he opened his eyes to see red in the dim lighting. "Donavan! You're hurt! Oh, Donavan, it's all my fault, I'm sorry I messed everything up..." Descending into hysterics again, he clutched Donavan's jacket tightly, never wanting to let go, never wanting to be separated from Donavan again.
Donavan hugged Faustino back tightly, wishing he’d never put Faustino through so much, wishing they hadn’t been apart for so long, and vowing to never let it happen again. Seeing Faustino in his current condition reminded Donavan of just how young he was, and though Faustino was a talented and powerful killer, Donavan knew he couldn’t even imagine how frightened Faustino had been. “No,” Donavan said quickly, wiping back Faustino’s tears gently, “No, it’s nothing. I’m fine. I have you with me again, so I’ll be okay.” He smiled and placed a kiss softly on Faustino’s forehead. “I missed you, Faustino. But it’s all going to be all right. We’re getting out of here.” He took out the pistol he’d been saving for Faustino and pressed it into his hands with a smile. With the two of them working together, whatever guards were left wouldn’t stand a chance. “I love you,” Donavan murmured, holding Faustino’s gaze only a moment longer before starting on the chain at his ankles.
As he felt the gun pressed into his palm, Faustino swallowed, trying to pull himself together. The feel of the smooth metal reminded him that he really was strong, and he could help Donavan. That was what he did. He was strong. He knew he had to do his best, to keep Donavan from getting hurt any worse, after all, Donavan was everything to him. He would be strong, for Donavan. "I love you, Donavan," he replied softly, still clinging tightly to Donavan with his free hand. "Everything will be okay, because we're together. Right?"
“Right,” Donavan nodded, getting to his feet once the lock on the shackles was undone. “We’ll be out of here in no time, and with the Queen out of the way, thanks to you, everything will be even better now.” He grinned broadly and took Faustino’s hand in his and gave it a squeeze. “I’m so glad you’re all right… But we’re going to have to fight our way out. Are you ready?”
Before Faustino could respond, a guard had appeared at the door and Donavan threw the knife he still held, killing the would-be attacker. He let go of Faustino’s hand and moved forward cautiously, peering out the door as he knelt to retrieve the weapon. The way was clear, at least for the moment, and Donavan knew it was crucial that they got into the open where they could seek cover. Turning back to Faustino, he gave him another smile, relieved to be with him again, and took his hand once more before rushing out into the hall and taking off towards the stairs leading back up to the main part of the castle.
Faustino felt safer when Donavan clutched his hand in his own, and he held on tightly as he followed Donavan up the stairs. As they were reaching the top, however, he could hear footsteps, and then more guards appeared, all armed and ready to fire. This time, however, Faustino was prepared, he wouldn't let them hurt him or Donavan, and he raised his gun and fired a single shot at each one, killing them all before they could get a shot off. Though he hadn't had problems this time, though, he was worried about the rest of the trip, and about how much ammunition they had left. "Donavan," he asked softly, "How far until we get out? Are we going to make it?"
“We will,” Donavan said confidently, though he was slightly concerned himself, “Especially if you keep shooting like that,” he added with a grin, in spite of his own fears. He didn’t want Faustino to be afraid; Donavan needed him to stay confident, because if they did make it, it would only be because they both fought as hard as they could. They’d been lucky before, but climbing a staircase was one of the worst places to end up in a gun fight.
“Here,” Donavan said quickly when they reached the top, pausing to pull Faustino close to them so that they could both hide in the frame of the door. “This is all the ammo I have left. I just reloaded, so you should take two.” He passed Faustino his share and tucked his own back into his pocket as he leaned forward carefully peering out into the hall. Immediately, he spotted two guards kneeling over the body of a fallen guard who looked to be just clinging to life. Donavan scoffed eternally, and turned back to Faustino, who had finished reloading, and signaled him to be ready.
Without a second’s hesitation, Donavan released Faustino’s hand and charged forward, shooting and killing both guards. It was only then that he realized that there were over a dozen more, all scattered about the hall, with the highest concentration located at the door that lead to the parlor where the servant’s corridor ended. The way he’d come was blocked off; they’d need to find an alternate escape route.
The guards were charging now, and Donavan emptied the remainder of his ammunition on the group, distracting them long enough for Faustino to join him, his gun blazing as well. He then dove to the ground beside a fallen guard and swapped out his spent pistol for the royal issue one, speeding forward with Faustino towards the opposite wall and emptying his second weapon as well. Reaching a door, Donavan tossed the weapon to the ground and kicked it open, pulling Faustino inside and slamming it shut, barricading it with the largest piece of furniture the room contained. “This isn’t the way I came in,” Donavan explained hurriedly to Faustino. “Do you have any idea where we are?”
"N-not really," Faustino replied timidly, looking around. They appeared to be in a parlor of some sort, but Faustino had never seen it before. "We ought to look for servant's passages in order to get out, right?" He looked around frantically, but the room really was unfamiliar, and he was at a loss. "Maybe there's a kitchen nearby, and we'll be able to find a passage from there...? I don't know, Donavan..." Fear was creeping back into his voice, despite how hard he was trying to be a grown up, and he trembled slightly as he looked up at Donavan, hoping he would have a plan.
The room contained two doors, and both were likely to lead deeper into the palace. Still, they had no choice; Donavan could hear the guards pounding at the door, and if they were going to escape, they’d have to get away from their pursuers. “Come on, let’s try this way.” Donavan smiled, keeping his voice confident and holding on to Fuastino’s hand as he led him across the room. Donavan opened the door he’d chosen at random slowly and peered inside, deeming it safe for them both to enter. It was yet another parlor-like room, and as they moved through it, this time taking a side door that opened into a hallway, Donavan couldn’t help but wonder how the royal family could have ever used so many rooms, especially since all of them seemed exactly the same.
The lights in the hall they were in hadn’t been lit, and it was extremely dark. Donavan could only assume that the rooms coming off of it weren’t being used at the time, which was very lucky for them. There were no guards in sight, but they still had to be cautious as they made their way carefully down the hall which it ended abruptly in a small square hatch with an ornate crank just to its right.
“It’s a dumbwaiter!” Donavan said happily, looking down at Faustino with a grin. This was exactly the break they’d been hoping for, and Donavan hurried to open the hatch. The long shaft was pitch black, and Donavan couldn’t even guess at how far down or up the apparatus went, and the actual box that moved between the floors was nowhere in sight. Still, Donavan was quite certain that they could use it to get to the bottom floor, and, better still, the dumbwaiter was likely to open up to the kitchen. “This is perfect,” Donavan said with a nod, waiting no time in turning the crank as quickly as he could. There was no way they could both fit inside the compartment, but perhaps, if it seemed sound enough, they could stand on top of it. “We’ll take this down to the bottom floor, and from there we should be able to find a way out,” Donavan explained as he continued to turn the crank. As long as no one tried to use it while they were in the shaft, they would be home free. Lucky for them, considering the state of things in the palace, it would be unlikely that anyone would be entertaining and needing to transport food between the floors.
At last, the compartment arrived, still carrying a tray of partially eaten food, and Donavan flashed Faustino a reassuring smile as he continued to lower it until it was below the opening in the wall. “I’ll go first to test it.” Donavan offered, placing one leg inside the hatch and applying some of his weight. It held firm, and carefully, he moved his other leg and slipped inside. The whole thing shifted and shook under his weight, and Donavan quickly grabbed onto the rope to steady the apparatus. The pulley was decidedly not built to accommodate so much weight, but as long as he held the rope steady, the thing seemed to be sturdy enough. “All right, I think it’ll be fine, just hold onto the rope in case this thing gives out.”
Faustino nodded, climbing in after Donavan carefully. The box rocked again, and he stumbled, letting out a small cry and clinging onto Donavan as the thing stabilized again. Catching his breath, he felt foolish, and swallowed, telling himself he had to be a grown up now. Holding onto the rope, as Donavan told him, he did his best to keep his balance on the wobbling box. "I'm ready," he said softly, nodding and doing his best to hide his insecurity.
Donavan nodded and leaned over Faustino to close the hatch, shutting them in complete darkness. The space they had was cramped and stuffy, but Donavan couldn’t say he minded it all that much. He liked being so close to Faustino, and he was proud of him for beings so strong. “I’m going to start it moving now…” Donavan murmured, knowing Faustino was likely to be a little scared. “But since the rope’s going to be moving, and I don’t want you to get blisters, you can hold on to me, okay?” Donavan grinned, even though he knew Faustino couldn’t see. Just the short time they’d been apart seemed to make him all the more eager to be as close to Faustino as possible… Donavan thought of his cousin and what he might say, then thought quickly in his own defense that this amount of closeness was completely necessary for their escape. It wasn’t like he’d orchestrated this whole thing as an excuse or anything.
"Okay," Faustino replied a little too quickly, letting go of the rope and throwing his arms around Donavan's waist. Even though he knew he had to be a grown up and do his job and protect Donavan, he was still a little frightened, and more than a little eager to stay close to Donavan. Holding close, he leaned in a little bit, pressing his face against Donavan's stomach. After being so terrified, after knowing he was going to die, being with Donavan again was the best thing he could imagine, and he never wanted to let go. He knew he had to, he knew he had to do his job for them both to escape, but he couldn't wait until they got home and he could just be with Donavan again... and that, he knew, was why he had to be strong, so they could escape and be together again.
The rope was coarse, and the going was slow; the pulley was not designed to be operated by really any method other than the wrench, and Donavan’s hands were beginning to blister. Even so, he didn’t mind, because he knew they were getting close, and soon the both of them would be out of danger. They had both fulfilled their duty to Algernon, and as such, would be rewarded once he’d taken power. And maybe then, Faustino wouldn’t have to do so much… Donavan knew he was scared, and felt terrible for putting him in such a terrible situation. He wouldn’t let it happen again…he didn’t ever want them to be separated. At least now…at least this closeness that Donavan knew he shouldn’t be enjoying but was, nevertheless, at least it was making up for a bit of the time they’d been apart. “It’s going to be all right,” Donavan said softly, his voice barely audible over the sound of the compartment creaking. “We must be almost to the bottom by now.”
By the time they finally felt the compartment hit the floor below, Donavan’s hands were numb, rubbed raw by the rope. It hurt to spread his fingers, but he ignored the pain and immediately began searching for the hatch that he hoped would open up into a kitchen. “It’s got to be around here somewhere, probable at your level… See if you can find a gap.” Donavan instructed, fumbling blindly himself in search of the hatch.
Faustino nodded, reluctantly letting go of Donavan and bending over, sitting on his knees and feeling around the wall for a ridge of any sort. It didn't take too long; soon, he felt a break in the wall, and then hinges, and with a few shoves, a small door swung open, revealing a square of light. "I got it!" he reported to Donavan with a grin before carefully climbing through the hatch and dropping the few feet to the ground. Stepping aside, he held his gun ready, just in case any guard appeared, waiting for Donavan to emerge, too. This was it, they were almost free... he just had to be strong a little longer, and so he steadied himself as he waited for Donavan.
Donavan blinked into the light and waited as Faustino got out before climbing awkwardly through the small, inconveniently placed space and stepping out into what appeared to be a kitchen. Donavan clenched his hands into fists, wincing slightly and hiding them in his pockets so as not to worry Faustino, and grinned confidently. “This is it. We’re almost out. Let’s find the door and get away from here.” The few servants that were working in the kitchen knew better than to try and interfere, and all of them lowered their eyes and pretended not to notice them as they moved through the kitchen to the opposite side of the room where there was a single window and a small door. They’d done it. Just a little bit more, and they’d be safe. Donavan was down to only his rapier now, though, and Faustino had just a few shots left. They’d have to be judicious in their use of weapons, and save the last few shots until they absolutly needed them.
Donavan backed against the wall with the window and leaned forward slowly, examining the palace grounds that stretched out in front of the door. There were four guards positioned immediately outside, and undoubtedly countless more in the fields beyond. Donavan ducked back behind the cover of the wall, and turned to Faustino. “There’s four of them that we’re going to have to kill, but if we can, we should try and do it silently. There are even more between us and the street, and they’ll all come after us if they hear a commotion.” Donavan passed Faustino his knife, wishing he had something better for him to use. “Even if we do kill these four without a hitch, I think we’re going to just have to bolt and hope we don’t run into any more trouble… We’re too outnumbered and underprepared to do much else.”
Faustino swallowed and nodded, accepting the knife and doing his best to push his fear from his mind. They were so close now, soon they'd be safe at home and everything would be okay. He couldn't think about all of the soldiers in between, he knew he and Donavan could take them... he just couldn't be afraid. They could do it. Telling himself this one more time, he looked up to Donavan, and suddenly felt the urge to say something, in case they didn't make it... which, of course, they would, but just in case... Catching Donavan's hand one last time, he looked up into his eyes and said, as softly as he could, so they wouldn't be heard, "I love you," before letting go and readying himself for the fight. They could do it... he just had to think positive now. He had Donavan with him, so everything would be okay.
Donavan smiled lovingly down at Faustino, touched by the sentiment of his words. Still, Donavan knew it wouldn’t be the last time he heard them, and though he murmured the same phrase back to Faustino, he knew that once they’d escaped, he’d say it again because he meant it. Donavan loved Faustino more than he’d ever loved anyone before, ever even thought it was possible to love someone, and he knew that because of that, the two of them would find a way to make it out together, no matter what.
With a final nod to Faustino and his rapier in hand, Donavan slowly pushed the door open, pressing himself against it and using the thick wood as cover because the moment the door opened, the guards were firing on the two of them and Donavan could hear the bullets sinking into their shield. Donavan broke away from Faustino, lunging forward at the nearest guard and sinking his blade into the man’s gut, wrenching it back quickly and kicking the body away so that he could redouble, attacking the next closest assailant ferociously.
Faustino swallowed, then followed Donavan's lead, lunging out from behind him at the next guard coming around and going straight for his heart with the dagger. The length of the blade made it difficult for him, since the guards were so much taller than he was, and though he would have liked to go for the neck, it was impossible. Luckily, as he pulled his blade back out, the man collapsed as blood began to flow heavily from the wound, and Faustino looked up just in time to see the last guard coming towards him. Throwing the dagger, he managed to hit the man squarely in the chest, and only waited for him to drop to the ground before hurrying to retrieve his dagger. With that taken care of, he turned back to Donavan hurriedly, awaiting instructions, hoping everything was going all right.
“Nicely done,” Donavan nodded hurriedly, flashing Faustino a quick smile. He would have liked to have praised him further—both his kills had been perfect—but he knew they didn’t have much time. The gunshots the guards had fired before they’d been silenced were sure to have caught the attention of other guards on patrol, and Donavan was sure the whole castle had probably been alerted that there were intruders and the prisoner had escaped. Taking Faustino by the hand once again, Donavan took off in the direction of the streets, moving swiftly but cautiously, taking care to avoid any guards on patrol on the grounds.
The tall iron fence separating the palace grounds from the city beyond was in sight, and Donavan was confident they’d make it—a little too confident. A guard standing near the gate caught sight of them and, panicking, fired.
Donavan heard the gun go off and spun to face the attacker, moving in front of Faustino and tearing the gun from his hands, firing back on the guard in a fluid motion. Donavan hadn’t even felt the bullet as it ripped through his side, and he didn’t even stop to check the severity, not until he and Faustino had reached the fence. “Can you fit through the bars?” Donavan asked, panting as his hand slowly moved to the injury. “I’ll climb over…” Donavan trailed, his exhaustion beginning to catch up with him at last. They were so close, though. He couldn’t give into the pain now. He managed to smile, and forced his hand to his side, wiping the sticky blood onto his knickers. “Almost there,” he said reassuringly, trying to ignore the wound and hoping Faustino would as well. They had to get out before they could waste any time worrying about what happened.
Faustino had pushed all thoughts from his mind besides those of escaping, but as soon as Donavan had been shot, he couldn't help it, he slipped. "Donavan--" he cried, but Donavan seemed to be doing his best to ignore it, and so Faustino fought back the hot tears that had suddenly appeared again in the corners of his eyes and did as told, slipping between the metal bars to the safety of the street outside. He stood back to watch as Donavan made his way over the top, worry still etched in his features, and he took Donavan's hand as soon as he was down. "Donavan, are you all right?" he asked hurriedly, desperately. If something happened to Donavan because he had been trying to save him, Faustino would never be able to forgive himself. "Do you need help? You can lean on me, I can get us home. Donavan, I'm so sorry..."
Donavan squeezed Faustino’s hand gently and looked down at him with a smile as he struggled not to think about his wounds and not to let the pain show on his face. They were out of the palace, but until they were safely back home, Donavan couldn’t afford to let his guard down. “I’ll be fine,” Donavan nodded. “I have an automobile parked just a little way away from here… Stay close to me… We don’t want to arouse any suspicions. And hopefully no one will notice us…” A bloodied palace guard walking with a young boy matching the assassin’s description was rather conspicuous, but the streets did not seem crowded, and after making it so far, Donavan was confident they could manage the short distance to the automobile. “Faustino…” Donavan said slowly as they turned down a small alley to avoid as many people as they could, “We made it.”
Faustino nodded quickly, swallowing but not daring to open his mouth for fear that he would lose his control and begin to cry. He knew he had to keep being grown up, he knew that they weren't safe yet, but he was just feeling so overwhelmed that he couldn't help it. Finally, they made it to the automobile, and Faustino hurried around to the other side to climb into the passenger's seat, feeling that even the time it took to walk around the automobile was far too long to be separated from Donavan, and he was silent during the drive home, holding his breath for their safety, holding his breath to keep from losing it altogether.
After what felt like years, they finally arrived at the manor, finally got the automobile parked, finally got inside. Faustino hurried to help Donavan into the nearest sitting room and sent the servants scurrying to bring warm water and ointments and bandages and clean clothes. Only once he had gotten Donavan to sit down on one of the sofas did Faustino finally break, finally let his adult act drop. Throwing his arms around Donavan, he burst into tears, burying his face in Donavan's chest and not even able to manage words. He felt so terrible for failing, for forcing Donavan to come rescue him, he was overjoyed that they had made it out together and alive, he was overwhelmingly worried about the injured state in which Donavan was now. His guilt and his relief sloshed around inside his head like blood and water, and he didn't know what to feel, what to say, what to do besides to hold onto Donavan like he would never let go again and to cry.
Donavan held Faustino tightly in his arms, listening to him cry and feeling the guilt hit him harder than ever before. Faustino was just a child, and all this time, Donavan had been forcing him to act like an adult, sculpting him, a young boy, into a killer. All for Algernon’s plan—for Algernon, who hadn’t even been willing to stick his neck on the line to save Faustino when he needed his help most. Donavan knew that no eight-year-old should ever have to endure what Faustino had; no one his age should have been forced to kill and suffer the consequences… Yet Faustino had done it all… He was truly remarkable, and while Donavan blamed himself for forcing Faustino to endure all that he had, Donavan was still extremely proud of him for rising to the challenge.
For now, though, Donavan knew that Faustino had had enough of acting like an adult… A lot had happened in just the past two days, and they were both going to need time to recover. “Faustino,” Donavan cooed softly, “it’s all right now. You’re safe, and I promise you, I’ll be fine.” Gently, Donavan tilted Faustino’s face up so that he could look into his eyes. Faustino’s face, flushed and tear streaked, a little scared and unsure, filled Donavan, not with guilt, as he’d expected, but an overwhelming desire to make Faustino feel better…to express to him how much everything he’d done meant to Donavan. Donavan didn’t know what to say, but he did know what to do, and without thinking, with no regard for the consequences, he pressed a kiss to Faustino’s lips softly and held it. Once again, he was forcing Faustino to act adult, but Donavan was more concerned with letting Faustino know how grateful he was that worrying about what the kiss actually meant.
Faustino was surprised when Donavan kissed him, but the surprise quickly faded into a warm feeling in his stomach that was a lot better than anything else he had been feeling, and as he felt Donavan's lips against his own, it seemed like everything was lightening up a little. They were home, they were safe, they had made it out alive, and most importantly, Donavan loved him. That was all the mattered in the end, and so when Donavan pulled back slightly after a moment, Faustino smiled through his tears. "Thank you, Donavan" he sniffed, swallowing and continuing to smile warmly. "You saved me... I love you, Donavan." Softly, quickly, he kissed Donavan back on the lips before sitting back and wiping his eyes. Things would be okay, so long as he and Donavan were together, of that he was sure.
Soon, the servants arrived with all the things Faustino had ordered, and he had them set it out on the table, turning back to Donavan, ready to be an adult again, at least for a little longer. Carefully, he reached up to unbutton Donavan's jacket, pulling it away and dropping it on the floor in a sticky, bloody mess. "We have to get you cleaned up," he explained, as if it wasn't obvious, "So I'm going to take off your shirt, too, okay?" He offered a comforting smile; after all, since all of this was his fault, he wanted to do everything he could to make sure Donavan healed as fast as possible.
Donavan nodded blankly, too much in shock to say anything. Faustino was…undressing him. And they’d shared their first real kiss. It was…a little hard from him to process, especially because all he could hear in his internal monologue was his cousin, yelling at him for having taken advantage of Faustino—when he was crying, no less! But, Donavan told himself, now really wasn’t the time to be thinking about what Perceval would say. He didn’t need to know, and right now…Donavan just wanted to enjoy the way Faustino’s hands felt, warm, small, and agile, as they moved slowly over his chest undoing each button.
Donavan smiled rather predatorily, but he knew he had to hold himself back. He may have shut of the Perceval-voice-of-reason, but he still had to respect the innocent love Faustino felt for him, at least for now.
It stung a little when Faustino pulled the remains of the shirt from the wounds, but Donavan clenched his jaw to keep the pain from showing. “Faustino, can you hand me those tweezers? The bullet’s still inside this one… I’ll dig it out while you clean the other one.” Donavan smiled apologetically. He didn’t really need Faustino’s help—he was used to cleaning himself up after a fight turned the wrong way—but there was just something about Faustino’s loving determination, and Donavan couldn’t say no to having his hands against his bare skin.
Faustino bit his lip and nodded, handing the tweezers to Donavan before turning back to the table and taking one of the cloths. Dipping it in the warm water, he crawled into Donavan's lap, dabbing at his waist to wipe away the congealing and drying blood. "Donavan," he said softly, guilt once more tugging at his heart as he began to be able to see the bullet wound. "I'm so, so sorry... I failed, and you got hurt to save me... I'm sorry, Donavan..."
“You didn’t fail,” Donavan smiled and shook his head, pausing in his efforts to remove the bullet so that he could reassure Faustino. “You killed the Queen!” Donavan exclaimed. “What you did was amazing—everything went perfectly according to plan. It’s just that I should have been there to help you get out… I should have done more to help you. And if—” Donavan clenched his jaw angrily as he went over what had gone wrong. “If Dragomir and Christian hadn’t been there, we would have escaped together yesterday. I should have been more prepared.” Donavan looked down once again, wincing as he pushed the tweezers deeper into the wound, searching for the various fragments of the bullet and its casing.
Faustino smiled despite himself at the praise, setting aside the cloth and reaching for the ointment. At the mention of Dragomir and Christian, however, his expression darkened, and he looked up a moment from rubbing the stuff into Donavan's skin. "After you're all better... once the Commandant's plan's done and everything's all better... then can I kill Christian, please? I just want to get rid of him, so you don't have to worry anymore..." Sighing, he returned the ointment and grabbed the bandages, reaching around Donavan's body to begin wrapping the wound. "I want to do everything I can to help you, Donavan... thank you for saving me."
Donavan smirked. “You can kill him the moment you see him. You don’t need permission from me—I know you can handle yourself,” Donavan added proudly. “And you know, I wouldn’t have made it back out if I didn’t have you… and even if I didn’t go back in for you, I don’t think I could have kept going…” His expression softened and he looked up from his wound at Faustino. “You mean a lot to me, Faustino. I love you.”
Faustino smiled warmly, finishing the bandaging. "I love you, too, Donavan... I'm really glad that everything's going to be okay now. We're together, so everything's going to be okay, right?" Though he was finished, he was reluctant to leave Donavan's lap, and so he leaned against his chest, careful to avoid the injuries, putting his arms around Donavan's waist. "I'm glad I have you, Donavan... I love you."
Donavan extracted the last bit of metal from his injury and put the small collection of bullet-remains on the table so that he could wrap his arms around Faustino. “Yeah, everything’s going to work out. Now that the queen’s dead, we just sit back and watch as everything falls into place.” He grinned and looked down at Faustino lovingly. “I’m not going to let you out of my sight for a while, okay? I missed you too much.”
"I want to stay by your side," Faustino replied, resting his face against Donavan's chest. Now that everything was okay again, he was suddenly feeling very sleepy... after all, he had spent the night in prison, terrified and alone, and now that he was back together with Donavan, he was realizing how tired he was. Letting his eyes fall shut, he sighed contentedly in Donavan's arms. "...'m a little sleepy... but... Donavan... I don't wanna be alone..." He struggled to stay awake, but he knew it was a losing battle, and so he clung to Donavan tighter, not wanting to be separated, even in sleep. He had spent the whole last night all alone, and he didn't want to be forced apart ever again.
Donavan nodded with a smile. He should have known Faustino would be exhausted. He probably hadn’t been able to sleep at all the night before, and Donavan knew he’d been pushing him hard for a long time. The both needed to rest, and Donavan certainly wasn’t adverse to staying close… He’d meant it when he said he wasn’t leaving Faustino alone. “You can fall asleep if you want,” Donavan said gently. “I’ll carry you to my room with me once I finish taking care of this… Don’t worry, I’ll stay with you.”
"Good..." Faustino mumbled, smiling softly, relaxing against Donavan and giving up the fight to stay awake. It felt so good to be with Donavan again, to be safe and warm. Snuggling into Donavan's chest happily, he murmured, "Thank you, Donavan... I love you..." before drifting off, feeling loved and cared for.
“Sleep well,” Donavan said softly, watching as Faustino fell softly into a deep sleep. After he’d finished bandaging his shoulder, Donavan gently lifted Faustino into his arms and carried him up the stairs before easing Faustino slowly down on to the bed and kneeling to remove his shoes, marveling at just how good it felt to be with Faustino again and relishing the simplicity of the moment.
They’d finished their part in the plan. From now on, it was just the two of them and they could do whatever they wanted, go where ever they wanted, and for their part in Algernon’s plan, they’d be rewarded. More importantly however, Faustino was safe, and Donavan knew that from now on, they’d never be apart.
